Operation: Graystone #10

[GM Mad]

Operation: Graystone #10

April 13th, CR 569

The combined squads have entered the ancient dwarven lair that a tribe of goblins now call home. The voice of a dwarf being tormented down in a pit lead the group to a huge combat area. The Stone Dwarf was unleashed to clear the immediate area of goblins while the dwarf was rescued. However this turned out to be a temporary situation as the Stone Dwarf had chased the goblins around the pit. Now the goblins were between the group and the Stone Dwarf! It's the running of the goblins as they flee for their lives! The squads are now split up in a hallway adjacent to the combat area trying to hold three flanks against the stampeding goblins.

North Flank:

Ren used a flask of Alchemists Fire to create a temporary barrier to hold out the goblins. A few still ran through and were burned to death. The fire, large and bright when ignited is quickly fading. It's only half as strong now and will surely go out soon!

Butternut continues to fire bolts at the fleeing goblins. Most hit and a few goblins fall. With the fire fading, she and Ren see that the goblins are bottle necked at the door to the dice room. None of the goblins are even attempting to reach the door further up. Ren has his daggers at the ready, but can only watch as he has no other ranged attacks.

Slowly a tremendous crashing sound can be heard. From past experience you realize that the Stone Dwarf is starting to get closer now as it pursues the goblins! Butternut can just barely make it out as it gets closer to the first opening! The goblins rushing this way is starting to thin out.

East Flank:

The east flank is the largest flank and is being held by three warriors with shields. Kendell and Lucyus mainly push any goblins who get to close away with their shields. Its easy to redirect the fleeing goblins back into the herd this way. A few manage to keep their feet, but most stumble and fall into the path of their kin. Vardra stabs those he can reach with his sword.

A call goes out that more defenders are needed on the southern flank. Erisciana calls out instructions and Kaylessa and Kendell move accordingly. Kaylessa moves to the south and takes up a position behind Wimzy. Kendell moves south as well and ends up beside Wimzy as Erisciana takes his place on the eastern flank. Thus far no goblins have broken through and those who get to closer are shoved with shields are stabbed for their efforts.

Taking the flasks of oil from Erisciana, Sorvani moves further south. He follows Vernar and Sann as they move further down the hallway.

Southern Flank:

The southern flank is a bit less chaotic. As the squad members move around, the first of the goblins runs past-- and keeps running down the hallway further to the south. Those close enough can see that this hallway turns diagonally away to your right. The majority of the goblins just run past, but a few get close enough that Kendell has to push them back into play. There does not seem to be any danger of the goblins breaching this line as they seem to want to run away to the south.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

That covers one more round. The number of goblins around the north flank has decreased immensely as the horde has mostly passed this area. There are many goblins log jammed at the door into the dice room. The Stone Dwarf is getting closer!

The goblins passing by the east flank is starting to thin, but there are still many of them. The first batch of goblins are passing the southern flank and seem more interested in running south.

If I am reading the post properly, Eris suggested dropping the oil a the end of the hallway. Between where Wimzy and Kendell are on the map below or in front of the group. Vernar seems to be suggesting that it be dropped behind the group, basically above Flare on the map. Which is it?

Here is the updated map:

graystone022.jpg (91.66 KiB) Viewed 9002 times

The entire group between Sorvani and Kendell are in the 20' long section of hallway. They are just spaced out more so that can be seen on the map.

Now what?

[Butternut]

Butternut:

There is a cacophony of shouting of ideas and jostling about as others see to the right flank and rear. Butternut is too focused on shooting goblins as fast as she can to pay very much attention. However, she cannot miss the thunderous approach of the golem, nor does she fail to notice that the flames are already starting to die down.

"Press forward," Vernar says, trying to rally the effort. Even though his infravision is messed up from the light, he can see the hallway with the openings clearly enough. "Once clear o' this openin', form a rear guard 'n walk backwards. Drop oil once we get further down the hallway, but save some fer it seems another side passage be ahead."

Since Vernar is not far away, Butternut is able to make out his words over the din of battle. "Vernar!" she calls back, trying to be heard over the noise. "The golem is here, and goblins are bottle-necked at the card room! If we're heading south, you should send it north to cover our backs since this fire is dying! We should wait to move until all the goblins have passed by!"

Rising to her feet from her kneeling position, Butternut begins to back slowly down the hall. She continues to fire as long as she has visible targets.

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

“I have no magic that would counter that!” Sorvani calls out while pointing at the split body.

"Few do," Vardra replies with a shrug, not having any other good answer.

===

"Kaylessa can move to the end of the hall. And I can take one place there amongst you, so that you can join her," she says to the trio of Kendall, Lucyus and Vardra. Erisci will pass one of the flasks of oil to Sorvani, so that he has two. "Make the flame barrier at the end of this hall but do not block the goblins from passing by. If necessary, place the oil behind our fighters and let them retreat before lighting it," she says in case the goblins try and force their way north up their hall.

Eri seems to hear Vardra's recommendation, and prods Kaylessa to join up with Wimzy further down the hall. She then volunteers to step into the line on this side to replace the whoever joins the elf and Azrellan. At Kaylessa's request, Kendall heads south and the priestess of Ishtar slides into his place on the line.

Goblins continue to race past, though their number seems to be shrinking slightly. Perhaps they are nearing the end of the horde. They do not seem to possess the will to penetrate the shield wall that he and his companions have erected.

Since Vernar is not far away, Butternut is able to make out his words over the din of battle. "Vernar!" she calls back, trying to be heard over the noise. "The golem is here, and goblins are bottle-necked at the card room! If we're heading south, you should send it north to cover our backs since this fire is dying! We should wait to move until all the goblins have passed by!"

Butternut shouts out what seems like good news - good at least as long as the stone dwarf doesn't turn on them. "I think the goblins are starting to thin over here!" Vardra adds to the halfing's shouted information. "We should be able to move soon."

________________________________________________________________________________
I think the intent was to have the group move further south, then pour the oil to cover their new northern flank. However, if they wait another turn to move, it may not be necessary.

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Since Vernar is not far away, Butternut is able to make out his words over the din of battle. "Vernar!" she calls back, trying to be heard over the noise. "The golem is here, and goblins are bottle-necked at the card room! If we're heading south, you should send it north to cover our backs since this fire is dying! We should wait to move until all the goblins have passed by!"

"Aye!" Vernar calls out in reply. He was going to work himself around to the southern-most point of the group and help lead the push out, but now it seems that won't be necessary. Instead, he puts his sword away so he can focus his attention on the ring of control. He needs to direct the stone dwarf back towards the dice room so that his companions don't end up squashed in the construct's fury as it slays goblins.

Not sure if it's sight based or works on a limited range, Vernar will see if he can start turning the stone guardian to chase the northern-bound group from where he is. He doesn't want to try to override the desire to smash goblins, but just rather which group of goblins it chooses to go after.

"Keep backin' away," he tells Butternut and Ren. He doesn't want them too close to that corner if he does have to wait until he sees the stone dwarf to be able to control it.

________________________________________________________________________________________________
OOC: I was suggesting to use the oil as we move further south at each of the junctions behind us as we passed them. That way any goblins coming behind would instinctively funnel north. However, it doesn't appear they will be behind us as they rush past us parallel at triple speed, so we shouldn't need any more oil.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus
The east flank is the largest flank and is being held by three warriors with shields. Kendell and Lucyus mainly push any goblins who get to close away with their shields. Its easy to redirect the fleeing goblins back into the herd this way. A few manage to keep their feet, but most stumble and fall into the path of their kin. Vardra stabs those he can reach with his sword.
Lucyus grits his teeth underneath his helm as he watches and pushes the goblins that come to close. Thankfully his training in long hours with axe and shield . As a particular goblin cries and tries to push through, Lucyus brings up his shield and pushes catching the goblin in the face and making it fall back into the wave of humanoids.
Kendell steps back and Eri takes his place on the line, His blue eyes shift to the left looking at the warrior priestess. An impressed look comes over his face as he begins to hear the stone dwarf’s foot fall and an idea comes to his face as Varda and Butternut call out.
“Why not ignite another alchemists fire before us? They will turn and flee and we can escape as the fire dies!”
(Lucyus will follow Vernar's plan. I was thinking if we light another fire the goblins would panic and turn right into the dwarf.)

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa
Kaylessa watches as Kendell moves forward and begins to push back the goblins as they approach him. Sadly she was unable to help him as she is behind Wimzy at the moment. And then a thought comes to her mind as the Goblins continue to run past.
Kaylessa will call out to the others, “I will see if I can capture one or two. See what we are able to find out!”
Kaylessa will cast Sleep at the running goblins so that none of her group are effected. Hopefully the others will see fruit in her idea.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

It's a stampede of goblins as they flee from the Stone Dwarf! The combined squads have taken temporary refuge in a hallway that runs along side the combat area. Using fire and shields, they are urging the goblins to seek shelter elsewhere.


North Flank:

Butternut continues to fire her crossbow bolts into the goblins fleeing back the way the adventurers came. They are bottle-necked at the door into the gold and dice room as so many are trying to get through at the same time. This group of goblins does get smaller and smaller as more of them are able to escape into the room and beyond.

The Stone dwarf can just be seen as the light from the Alchemists Fire burns itself out and Ren and Butternut can see in the dark once more. The goblins coming into the hallway from the combat area comes to a stop and the Stone Dwarf can be seen. The large construct does not follow the goblins towards the dice and gold room, instead it continues to the south!

Ren and Butternut start to withdraw down the hallway. Further up from them the goblins continue to go in the opposite direction and give no indication that they are going to approach the squad.


East Flank:

Erisciana, Lucyus and Vardra continue to hold the eastern flank. The goblins are far more interested in running towards the south than trying to break through your blockade. The sheer number of goblins starts to diminish and you can hear and feel the sounds of the Stone Dwarf getting closer!

Vernar separates himself from Sann Silverbeard and makes his way towards the opening into the combat arena. At the same time the three humans holding this opening step back as the Stone Dwarf is getting closer. Vernar focuses on his ring and tries to urge the Stone Dwarf to go after the goblins fleeing into the dice room instead.

The Stone Dwarf continues its approach and steps into sight of those in the opening. And in spite of Vernar's directions, continues to rush after those fleeing to the south! The Stone Dwarf has passed this location continues to chase the goblins fleeing to the south.

“Fine dwarven craftsmanship,” Sann Silverbeard notes. “Hammer golems be relentless when it comes ta goblinoids. You'll not be redirectin' it until all the goblins are squashed!”


South Flank:

There is less action on the southern flank as the goblins that emerge from the combat arena just keep running into the hallway further to the south. Kendell is more than able to divert any who get to close. The number of goblins passing are starting to go down and you can hear the sound of the Stone Dwarf approaching and feel its thunderous footfalls.

Kaylessa gets an idea and casts a Sleep spell as the goblin horde begins to thin out. In response to her spell being cast, seven of the goblins fall to the ground. A few are stepped on as other goblins run over them and several are tripped up from the sleepers and join them on the ground.

Than the Stone Dwarf comes into sight and as before ignores the squad as it chases the goblins into the southern hallway. It steps on and pounds the goblins on the ground as it moves along. Then the Stone Dwarf like the goblins before, disappears into the southern hallway. The sounds of the goblins and the Stone Dwarf grow fainter as they move further away. Suddenly, the immediate area is empty of threats.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The goblins have all run away and the Stone Dwarf is still chasing them! Here is an updated map that shows some of the hallway.

graystone023.jpg (24.11 KiB) Viewed 8943 times

With the immediate danger past, I didn't place positions or light sources on this map. Given the way things unfolding, no other oil was used at this time. Sorvani has a lit torch and a few unlit torches can be spotted in holders along the hallway.

Now what?

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Butternut shouts out what seems like good news - good at least as long as the stone dwarf doesn't turn on them. "I think the goblins are starting to thin over here!" Vardra adds to the halfling's shouted information. "We should be able to move soon."

Butternut hears more shouted information, which seems so confirm what she's seeing. It sounds like the soldier, Vardra, but it's hard to be certain with all the noise in here. At least her quarrels appear to be taking a few of the goblins down.

"Keep backin' away," he tells Butternut and Ren. He doesn't want them too close to that corner if he does have to wait until he sees the stone dwarf to be able to control it.

Glancing over her shoulder, the halfling warrior-mage sees their dwarven leader staring into his recently-acquired ring. "Got it!" she calls back, continuing to fire at the goblin-jam up near the card-room door as she backs toward the south. As she moves, she can see that the golem is continuing to chase the main group of goblins southward, regardless of Vernar's intent.

Butternut catches the gnome's attention and gestures towards the torch sconces between shots. "Ren, how about snagging some of those extra torches as we go by?"

“Fine dwarven craftsmanship,” Sann Silverbeard notes. “Hammer golems be relentless when it comes ta goblinoids. You'll not be redirectin' it until all the goblins are squashed!”

A grim smile briefly appears on her face. As long as it continues to kill goblins, Butternut cannot fault the creature.

“Why not ignite another alchemists fire before us? They will turn and flee and we can escape as the fire dies!”

The voice reminds Butternut of the paladin, so she assumes that is who it is. if there golem isn't going to deal with the goblins to the north, perhaps the alchemist's fire is a second-best option. "Better yet, throw it up into the mass of goblins and give them another reason to flee!"

_____________________________________________________________________
Updated map: https://i.lensdump.com/i/WgAlca.jpg

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

Nearby, Lucyus shouts to the others about making more fire to scare the goblins, though Vardra doubts that they could be any more terrified than they are right now. The halfling, Butternut, recommends using it to roast more of the remaining goblins, but that seems a waste. Thus, he throws his two-coppers-worth into the shouted discussion. "If they're not turning to attack, let's hang onto it in case we need it later!"

Kaylessa calls out something about capturing a goblin or two, but he's not sure how she intends to do that. Figuring it can't hurt, Vardra will sheathe his sword and wait for the end of the swarm to pass - still using his shield to keep them funneling south. As the last few pass, he'll reach out and try to grab one, pulling it to himself and pounding it with his shield until it stops squirming.

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Vernar might as well be trying to turn back the fleeing horde by himself for all the luck he has even swaying the stone guardian from its determined path south.

“Fine dwarven craftsmanship,” Sann Silverbeard notes. “Hammer golems be relentless when it comes ta goblinoids. You'll not be redirectin' it until all the goblins are squashed!”

"Aye, well it missed some," Vernar replies as he scratches under his beard while watching the stone dwarf disappear down the south corridor. It would seem the construct went after the largest of the groups, and Vernar doubts the other goblins will regain their morale anytime soon. Still, it's best not to linger.

“Why not ignite another alchemists fire before us? They will turn and flee and we can escape as the fire dies!”

"We may not be needin' it," Vernar chimes in once the clamor dies down. "Still, we best not be tarryin' an' instead get out while we be havin' the best opportunity."

Vernar is unaware of the attempted goblin snatching. He will certainly realize it should any of the goblins survived being trampled. He will move back up towards the front of the group in case the stone dwarf comes roaring back up their way, but hopefully there is some time before it chases down the last of the fleeing goblins.

[Kendell]

Kendell:

Kendell continues to hold his ground as the goblins go rushing past. The ground starts to shake and Kendell has no idea just what is coming! Then half a dozen goblins simply fall to the ground as if by magic! What strange happenings are this?

The next thing Kendell knows is that the Stone Dwarf comes rushing past chasing the goblins into the hallway up ahead. Both are soon lost from sight.

“What the hell just happened?” Kendell wonders out loud.

[Sorvani]

Sorvani:

Still somewhat stunned by seeing the burning goblins, Sorvani is a bit dazed. He moves back as directed bearing his torch and the oil. However, there is no need to apply more as the goblins run past followed by the thunderous footfalls of the Stone Dwarf. Soon all are lost in the dark.

Sorvani lets out a huge sigh and finally allows himself to breathe once more. He lets out a nervous laugh as it seems we'll survive the goblins fleeing.

"We may not be needin' it," Vernar chimes in once the clamor dies down. "Still, we best not be tarryin' an' instead get out while we be havin' the best opportunity."

“No argument from me,” Sorvani calls out with nervous energy.

By this point, Sorvani assumed that the extra oil was not needed and made no attempt to pour it out. He will return the oil to its proper owners if asked to do so. Instead, Sorvani will use his torch to light the nearby torches so if anyone wants one they can take their own. Sorvani will grab the coin with the Light Spell on it in case no one else does. Can't have too much light in this dark place!

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa
Watching with her shortswords held loosely in her hand. An idea comes to her as she sheathes one of her swords and begins casting a sleep spell. As she finishes casting she is unsure as to how many goblins she was able to catch within her spell because of the mass confusion of those who tripped and fell.
Within moments a loud thumping is heard as the Stone Golem barrels after the goblins tearing into those who unfortunately are not able to get away from it’s rage.

“What the hell just happened?” Kendell wonders out loud.

“The fox got in the hen house.” She says simply as she steps forward. “Some may slumber. That is if they weren’t trampled by the Guardian. Dispatch any wounded dispatch, though if they are male and older we can put them to questions then dispatch them.”
.Her eyes look at the carnage before her. She tries to look for signs of breathing from the goblins, Those that she finds sleeping she will gauge their age thinking the older male ones will know more of those youngens caught in the spells wake. Those that are wounded she will question about numbers of the goblins as well as ways out then dispatch them.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

Vernar wrote:"We may not be needin' it," Vernar chimes in once the clamor dies down. "Still, we best not be tarryin' an' instead get out while we be havin' the best opportunity."
“No argument from me,” Sorvani calls out with nervous energy.

By this point, Sorvani assumed that the extra oil was not needed and made no attempt to pour it out. He will return the oil to its proper owners if asked to do so. Instead, Sorvani will use his torch to light the nearby torches so if anyone wants one they can take their own. Sorvani will grab the coin with the Light Spell on it in case no one else does. Can't have too much light in this dark place!

Lucyus watches as the goblins thin out then the Golem runs past them, Raising his helm a little so he can talk easier. “I would not wish to be on the receiving end of that.” He says as he watches the carnage about them.
“I agree Let us be away from here. Hopefully the Guardian has cleared much of the hallway.” He says easily as he looks toward Vernar and the others.
He hears Kaylessa words, “See what you may find but be quick about it. If the Guardian comes back we may be next if Vernar cannot control it.”
Lucyus will gather up the coin and take a free torch that is unlit. He will be ready to move taking his position near the end of the group.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The Stone Dwarf has chased the horde of goblins past the Squads position and down the hallway to the south. Both are rapidly growing more distant with each passing moment. The moans and cries of more than a few wounded goblins can be heard now. Those that were struck by the Stone Dwarfs weapons were killed, but some were only stepped on and managed to survive. The screams from one goblin are particularly loud. Those who investigate can see that its legs were smashed flat by the passage of the Stone Dwarf.

After hearing talk of about capturing a goblin, Vardra reaches out grabs one of the last ones to run past his position. The first hit with his shield dazes the goblin. The second knocks it out cold.

The squads have a moment to catch their breath. Extra torches are acquired and some are lit using the torch that Sorvani holds. Lucyus wades through the bodies of goblins to retrieve the coin that he cast Light upon earlier. He grabs an additional torch as well.

Kaylessa moves to the area where her Sleep spell dropped the seven goblins. It hard to tell which is which among the prone bodies. Many have taken obvious weapons damage, while others were crushed by the passing Stone Dwarven. The gruesome sight of a goblin with its head crushed flat can be seen. Goblin blood is everywhere.

However, Kaylessa can find that two of the goblins are merely sleeping among the dead bodies. With a slap, Kaylessa wakes up the slumbering goblin and proceeds to question it. Judging by the crazed look in the goblin's eyes, it is terrified beyond rational thought by what it just went through and is unresponsive to the elves questions. Instead I tries to continue to flee.

Vernar orders the group to keep on moving, heading south down the same passageway the Stone Dwarf and the goblins ran. The scouts move ahead and out of the torch and lantern light so that they can see better and step over and around the bodies of dead goblins as they go.

The hallway turns to their right slightly and runs off in that direction for around fifty feet. Then it turns slightly to the right once more and heads off into darkness. At the turn, there is a another passage way that leads off to the right and seems to go back the way you came. A door can be spotted along the way near the edge of your vision on the right. Continuing on straight ahead the passageway goes beyond the limits of their sight and near the end there is an opening on the right. Unless your eyes are playing tricks on, a very faint light can been seen from much further down the hallway going straight ahead!

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

What is Kaylessa going to do with the goblin she woke up? What about the sleeping one and the one Vardra captured?

Several more torches were grabbed and about 1 in every 3 wall sconce has an unlit torch in it. Going to grab those too?

Here is the updated map:

graystone024.jpg (12.12 KiB) Viewed 8887 times

Now what?

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa

Kaylessa moves to the area where her Sleep spell dropped the seven goblins. It hard to tell which is which among the prone bodies. Many have taken obvious weapons damage, while others were crushed by the passing Stone Dwarven. The gruesome sight of a goblin with its head crushed flat can be seen. Goblin blood is everywhere.

Walking through the carnage of the Stone Guardian, Kaylessa brings the back of her hand to her face. The blood and gore is everywhere. Body parts are smashed dismembered and mutilated. One Goblin screams out in agony as the goblins legs are smashed beyond repair.

However, Kaylessa can find that two of the goblins are merely sleeping among the dead bodies. With a slap, Kaylessa wakes up the slumbering goblin and proceeds to question it. Judging by the crazed look in the goblin's eyes, it is terrified beyond rational thought by what it just went through and is unresponsive to the elves questions. Instead It tries to continue to flee.

Using the back of her hand she pushes a sleeping goblins face to side, “We have a live one!”she calls out as she brings her hand hard across the goblin’s face. The creatures eyes pop open as Kaylessa tries the goblin language. It’s eyes show pure terror and it begins to squirm and attempts to flee. “Perhaps not.”
Kaylessa will dispatch the goblin as quickly as possible. The remaining sleeping Goblin will die in it’s sleep.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Nearby, Lucyus shouts to the others about making more fire to scare the goblins, though Vardra doubts that they could be any more terrified than they are right now. The halfling, Butternut, recommends using it to roast more of the remaining goblins, but that seems a waste. Thus, he throws his two-coppers-worth into the shouted discussion. "If they're not turning to attack, let's hang onto it in case we need it later!"

Unable to really argue with the idea of not wasting resources, Butternut grumbles under her breath for a few seconds, but eventually lets it go.

Vernar urges the group to continue down the hallway in hopes of finding the way out, and Lucyus confirms that intention. Taking one last look behind, Butternut verifies that the goblins to the north are not turning to attack. Satisfied for the moment, she makes her way to the front of the group to resume acting as a scout. As she does so, she slings her crossbow and unsheathes her sword and dagger. Best to be ready in case of ambush.

As she makes her way through the group, she notices the unconscious goblin dangling from one of Vardra's arms. "Whatta ya planning to do with that filth, Vardra? Trust me, they aren't good eatin'." Butternut makes a sour face, then chuckles in a somewhat disturbing manner.

Moving out, she and Ren make their way down the hall as it angles off to the right. A bit further on, the hall angles even further to the right, with another hallway intersecting sharply from the right. Peaking around the corner, Ren spots a door up the near hall a ways. As he inspects the intersection, Butternut watches further down the main hallway. 'Is that light...?' she wonders. She indicates that direction to Ren, and he confirms that it looks like light to him as well. He can also see another hallway coming in from the right further down.

Butternut leaves Ren on lookout, and moves back toward Vernar, gesturing for him to come meet her. "There's a hallway on the right with a door at the edge of vision. I think it links up with the one we saw earlier going past the card room. There also appears to be another hallway on the right further down, and possibly a source of light way down the hall. Should we check out the side halls, or keep moving ahead toward the light?"

________________________________________________________________________________________
Updated map: https://i.lensdump.com/i/WtxpQz.jpg

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

The stone dwarf rumbles past. With a quick grab, Vardra is able to yank one of the last few fleeing goblins out of the press. Once, twice, he smashes the terrified humanoid with his shield before it slumps into unconsciousness. That done, he realizes that he doesn't have a hand free for his lantern.

Looking over, Vardra notices Erisciana nearby. "Uhm, Erisciana? Can you grab my lantern? My hands are kind of full at the moment."

Walking over to Kaylessa, he holds up the unconscious goblin. She can see what passes for blood in a goblin trickling from its nose and mouth, along with several facial contusions. "What do you want me to do with this? I heard you say something about capturing a goblin. I doubt it will wake up anytime soon."

Once the disposition of the goblin is settled, Vardra will retrieve his lantern and accept his oil from Sorvani. Opening up his pack, he puts them away for now. There are plenty of torches, so he'll grab one from a sconce and light it from Sorvani's. By this point, the group has headed off down the hall to the south, so he falls in at the rear. As he follows along, he keeps one eye to their rear, just in case any of the goblins return from the gambling room.

[Flare Nightstorm]

Flare Nightstorm -

Sorvani will use his torch to light the nearby torches so if anyone wants one they can take their own. Sorvani will grab the coin with the Light Spell on it in case no one else does. Can't have too much light in this dark place!

Quite glad someone grabbed that coin. Flare watches as Sorvani hands it over to Lucyus. It's a ray of hope in these dark places.

Kaylessa moves to the area where her Sleep spell dropped the seven goblins. It hard to tell which is which among the prone bodies. Many have taken obvious weapons damage, while others were crushed by the passing Stone Dwarven. The gruesome sight of a goblin with its head crushed flat can be seen. Goblin blood is everywhere.

Thank Selune none of us have come to such harm as these fear-crazed Goblins. It has been a treacherous stretch of cavern.

He throws a nibbler into his mouth and begins to chew. He instinctively goes to feed his animal companion, the hawk, then remembers that she is high up on this mountain, providing lookout. He misses her - and also the daylight, the fresh air, the sky, the trees, the sound of a voice as it echoes across a canyon. He hopes that his beautiful friend is faring well.

His thoughts are awakened to reality as the Squad gathers 'round and continues on. Yes, good. Moving south again. Seems the best direction for us.

But Flare will stay alert, not allowing himself to be lulled into a false sense of security. He will provide backup to the scouts at the southern flank, and to the rest of his company.

We're not out of this yet.

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Vernar doubts much will be learned from the captured goblins unless they lucked out and grabbed a leader. He will leave the others to the grim business of dispatching the goblins once it becomes apparent their only answer to questions will be shrieks of terror.

Instead, Vernar will move up to his position among the scouts, inviting Sann to join him if he is so inclined. If the other dwarf does accompany him, Vernar will speak in hushed tones to learn how much Sann knows about this place.

"How far did you get explorin' before all this?" he asks, indicating the goblins. "Did they seem t' want anythin' or jus' throw you in the pit fer their amusement?"

Butternut leaves Ren on lookout, and moves back toward Vernar, gesturing for him to come meet her. "There's a hallway on the right with a door at the edge of vision. I think it links up with the one we saw earlier going past the card room. There also appears to be another hallway on the right further down, and possibly a source of light way down the hall. Should we check out the side halls, or keep moving ahead toward the light?"

"I feel we should be gettin' out as soon as we can," Vernar replies. "With goblins and the stone dwarf roamin' 'bout, we best leave and be lettin' others know 'bout the situation here."

Vernar assumes light is good, and he also figures following the trail of dead goblins would also indicate a way out. Vernar will indicate the other passageway to the group behind him and let them know we are planning on heading towards the distant light. "Keep an eye on that passage," he warns the main group, "don't be wantin' any o' them comin' back behind us."

Unless there is a disagreement or a strong desire to do something different, Vernar will tell Butternut to keep leading us in that direction.

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa
As Kaylessa is moving amongt the goblin rancor she hears the words of the soldier.

Walking over to Kaylessa, he holds up the unconscious goblin. She can see what passes for blood in a goblin trickling from its nose and mouth, along with several facial contusions. "What do you want me to do with this? I heard you say something about capturing a goblin. I doubt it will wake up anytime soon."

It would seem the Varda smashed the goblin’s face in whether by gauntlet or shield as the goblin’s face is blooded and broken. “Well done, but as I have found out the goblins are in no condition to speak. I woke one moments ago and he tried to flee in panic and ignored my words. Probably best if we just dispatch it and move on.” She says matter of factly.
After dispatching the goblins, Kaylessa will move up through the group catching up to the scouts where the torches do not mess with her vision.

Vernar assumes light is good, and he also figures following the trail of dead goblins would also indicate a way out. Vernar will indicate the other passageway to the group behind him and let them know we are planning on heading towards the distant light. "Keep an eye on that passage," he warns the main group, "don't be wantin' any o' them comin' back behind us."

Kaylessa will say back to the dwarven leader. “If the air is fresher, I would head in that direction.”she says looking briefly at the dwarf. “Light can be deceiving, if you recall the lava room.”
Kaylessa will follow Butternut and Ren for the moment.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus
Taking up the rear, Lucyus hears Vernar’s words about the passage.

Vernar assumes light is good, and he also figures following the trail of dead goblins would also indicate a way out. Vernar will indicate the other passageway to the group behind him and let them know we are planning on heading towards the distant light. "Keep an eye on that passage," he warns the main group, "don't be wantin' any o' them comin' back behind us."

“I’ll see to it” she says taking up position by the passage. Once everyone is passed the passage, he will follow the others. “Just don’t move to far ahead of me.” He warns realizing he does not want to be left in the dark without a lit torch.
( If the coin lit goes out. He will recast.)

[Kendell]

Kendell:

“The fox got in the hen house.” She says simply as she steps forward. “Some may slumber. That is if they weren’t trampled by the Guardian. Dispatch any wounded dispatch, though if they are male and older we can put them to questions then dispatch them.”

“Oh,” Kendell says. “That explains everything.”

Kendell keeps an eye on the Lady Elf as she roughs up a goblin. Critter seems to be terrified and does not cooperate and ends up dispatched.

The group soon starts to move forward and Kendell will help keep an eye on the rear. He'll accept an extra torch to hold in his shield hand so that he can see well enough to pick his way through the piles of goblin bodies.

[Sorvani]

Sorvani:

The goblins and the Stone Dwarf have rushed past our position. Now its our turn to follow them.

“Given the choice, I'd rather be behind them instead of in between,” Sorvani observes. “Less chance of being trampled that way.”

The scouts start down the same hallway that everyone else took. Hopefully it had multiple exits to that the goblins don;t come running back this way! As he passes an unlit torch, Sorvani will light it using his torch.

Sorvani takes his position near the middle of the group and will carefully pick his way over and around all the bodies and blood.

“Gods!” Sorvani calls out in disgust. “I thought they smelled bad on the outside!

Continue to follow the group as we move along and keep on lighting torches. It may keep other goblins from coming this way!

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The squads are on the move once more, following the trail left behind by the Stone Dwarf and the goblin horde it was chasing and slaughtering. The direction they went in is easy to tell from the number of dead goblins littering the hallway floor. The bodies do go down in number as the squad moves further along, but there are still enough to tell which direction they went.

A faint light is spotted up ahead and a soft, but fresh breeze can be felt. The outside is not far away! The news is passed along down the Squad to those bringing up the rear. Vernar and Sann move up to the front.

The second opening on the right is reached. It travels about twenty feet before opening up into a larger chamber. A door can faintly be seen on the far wall. A familiar odor can be smelled by the dwarves and they know that the room is forge, but no fires are currently burning there.

"How far did you get explorin' before all this?" he asks, indicating the goblins. "Did they seem t' want anythin' or jus' throw you in the pit fer their amusement?"

“Now there be a smell to gladen the heart o' any dwarf!”, Sann says almost giddy in regards to the smell of the forge area. “We didn' get far at'all when those sons o' rat droppin's swarmed us and drove us ta that pit! Then those worgs pounced!”

Sann takes a moment to look around. “This does look familiar...,” he notes. “That's be the way we came!” Sann points in the direction that you were already going and heads off that way. “This be the way out!”

The squad moves forward, passing the hallway leading to the forge area. From there the hallway goes another thirty feet and there is an opening on the left. Twenty feet past that, the hallway turns to the right. The light and breeze are coming from the left hand opening. The fallen bodies of goblins are also going that same direction! That is the way Sann goes as well.

Those who look down the passage to the left see that it goes straight for twenty feet. Then stairs going up on the right can be seen. This is the source of the fresh air and the every growing brighter light!

Sann dashes of towards the stairs and up them. “Entrance be this way!”

Just past the stairs, the hallway turns to the left once more and that seems to be the direction the goblins and golem went as a few bodies are seen along the way. Those who go to look down that passageway will see that it keeps going back farther than they can see.

If anyone checks out where the main hallway you had been in goes after it turns to the right, will see that it ends 30' along the way at a door, but there is an opening before it on the right.

The squad rushes up the stairs and find that it enters into a thirty foot square room. At the opposite of this area there is a massive door, much like the one the group had the Stone Dwarf break through to escape the caverns. However, this door is already broken in from the outside. The wooden bar that holds it tight has been broken and there are burn marks on parts of it. Parts of the doors are burnt as well. The doors were left flung open and beyond you can see outside!

The day is bright and sunny and warmer then it had been when you began this journey many days ago. The fresh air smells wonderful and now you cannot not help but notice just had bad your body odor is from what you've had to endure.

“Azrella be praised!” Wimzy calls out in relief. “By the Blue Lady that foul stench is everywhere!”

Sann dashes off from the entrance and a short distance away five mules are tied off. Sann goes for one of the mules and strokes like an old friend. “Ach, I didn't think I'd be seenin' you again, Dolly! At least those dung slingers left you alone!”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Out of the darkness at last! It appears to be about midday now. There are no signs that the goblins or the Stone Dwarf came this way.

The rangers can tell that you are not too far away from the Eagle's Nest where this adventure all started. Flare is pretty sure he knows the proper direction to go in. A trail does lead away from the dwarven now goblin lair back in the general direction of Eagle's Nest.

Here is the updated map for the final part of the dwarven lair.

graystone025.jpg (27.3 KiB) Viewed 8819 times

You're in the the great outdoors and fresh air once more!

Now what?

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

It would seem the Varda smashed the goblin’s face in whether by gauntlet or shield as the goblin’s face is blooded and broken. “Well done, but as I have found out the goblins are in no condition to speak. I woke one moments ago and he tried to flee in panic and ignored my words. Probably best if we just dispatch it and move on.” She says matter of factly.

"Oh. Okay," Vardra says with a sharp nod. Dropping the unconscious goblin to the hard floor, he draws his sword and drives it through the creature's chest until the point strikes the floor. "Done." Withdrawing the sword from the now-dead body, he wipes the goblin's blood from the blade onto its scaps of clothing.


As they start down the passage, Vardra finds himself near the quiet ranger. Flare appears to be having a quick snack, which reminds Vardra of his own hunger. He pulls a hunk of bread from a pocket and takes a couple of bites. "You gonna help me watch the rear, Flare?" he asks between bites as they march along.

A little ways down the passage, they pass an opening on the right and Lucyus joins them at the back of the pack. Vardra nods to the paladin as he finishes off the bread.

They pass another opening, and Vardra hears Sann say something about a forge. Clearly the dwarf had been this way before. A little further on, the group turns left. He can see that the passage that they had been in proceeds a very short ways and then turns right. Not wanting to leave their back exposed, Vardra moves down to the turn and looks right, but it doesn't go far before reaching a door.

Catching back up with Flare and Lucyus, they reach some stairs heading up. The breeze coming from that opening feels wonderful. "Nice breeze," he says to his companions. "We must be getting close to the entrance."

At the top of the stairs, they find a moderately-sized room with a large, badly-damaged door. Beyond is the outdoors. They have reached the top! A huge smile breaks out on Vardra's face as he takes a deep breath of the fresher air from outdoors.

Vardra joins the others outside in the sunshine. A small group of mules stands to one side, and Sann seems to be talking to one of them. Stepping over to the mules, Vardra begins inspecting the other ones. "Did your friends leave any supplies with the mules, friend Sann? We're a bit low on food."

[Butternut]

Butternut:

"I feel we should be gettin' out as soon as we can," Vernar replies. "With goblins and the stone dwarf roamin' 'bout, we best leave and be lettin' others know 'bout the situation here."

"Got it." Butternut shifts her gaze to Ren. "Let's keep going."

They slink on down the hall to the second opening. It appears to let into some kind of room. Butternut shifts to the other side of the opening as Vernar moves up to join them again, followed by his fellow dwarf, Sann.

“Now there be a smell to gladen the heart o' any dwarf!”, Sann says almost giddy in regards to the smell of the forge area. “We didn' get far at'all when those sons o' rat droppin's swarmed us and drove us ta that pit! Then those worgs pounced!”

Butternut isn't really sure what is so great about the smell of a forge, but she suspects that it's a dwarf thing. However, there is one interesting tidbit in his statement. "Ah, so we're getting close to the exit then. Good."

Sann confirms that they are moving the right direction, so Butternut and Ren continue to lead the way. The next intersection is on the left, and they continue in that direction at Sann's urging. As they move along, and opening appears on the right, which proves to be a stair leading upwards. The light can be clearly seen, and fresher air wafts in from that direction.

Sann dashes off towards the stairs and up them. “Entrance be this way!”

Not wanting the newly-rescued dwarf to race into an ambush, Butternut trots up the stairs behind him. They let out into an apparent guard room of some sort, with a large busted door leading outside. Stepping out into the sunshine, Butternut estimates that it is roughly mid-day or perhaps early afternoon. She offers a quick prayer to Arvoreen in thanks for keeping them safe.

“Azrella be praised!” Wimzy calls out in relief. “By the Blue Lady that foul stench is everywhere!”

Butternut chuckles at her fellow halfling's comment. "I think we brought some of it with us." She makes a show of sniffing herself, as they have all gotten even riper since falling into the putrid water some days ago.

While Sann goes off to check on his mule, Butternut starts to walk the perimeter of the open area. She finds what appears to be a trail, and waves Flare over. "Found a trail here, Flare. I think it leads toward the top of the Eagle's Nest that we were supposed to locate." If he agrees, she calls Vernar and Lucyus over and shows them the trailhead.

______________________________________________________________________________________
Updated map: https://i.lensdump.com/i/WTsEiz.jpg

[Flare Nightstorm]

Flare Nightstorm-

As they start down the passage, Vardra finds himself near the quiet ranger. Flare appears to be having a quick snack, which reminds Vardra of his own hunger. He pulls a hunk of bread from a pocket and takes a couple of bites. "You gonna help me watch the rear, Flare?" he asks between bites as they march along.

"I do find it difficult to be at ease while we are still in this mountain, Vardra. So, yes, happy to be an extra set of eyes, watching the back of the squad."

He falls in, still munching on an unknown piece of bread..? plant..? rock..? If pressed, Flare might not even know the origins of the nibbler he is chewing on.

"Butternut and Ren have firm control of our front. They work well together."

Then Flare pauses, his mind suddenly snatched away.

"I'm thinking about our fallen squad members. We lost Sgt Traken. His body is still in this mountain somewhere. I know you lost good people too. If we make it out of this blasted place, will we be able to retrieve their bodies?"

To be so serious is unusual for Flare. He yearns to be out of this place.

Then: a wondrous sign!

The breeze coming from that opening feels wonderful. "Nice breeze," Vardra says to his companions. "We must be getting close to the entrance."

"Praise Selune, nice breeze indeed!"

Flare's worried countenance dissolves into one of a more peaceful nature as a draft of air caresses him quietly. The wafting fragrance of cedar and sugar pine mixed with hints of lilac fills his nostrils. He breathes it in. It's wonderful. Such a welcoming breath of life into his stale, feeble lungs.

Sann dashes off towards the stairs and up them. “Entrance be this way!”

Flare quickly, instinctively nocks an arrow at Sann's sudden exuberance. This dwarf should be careful!

Not wanting the newly-rescued dwarf to race into an ambush, Butternut trots up the stairs behind him.

Thankful that Butternut is immediately on Sann, Flare relaxes his bow and place the arrow back in his quiver. Crisis averted.

The day is bright and sunny and warmer then it had been when you began this journey many days ago. The fresh air smells wonderful and now you cannot help but notice just how bad your body odor is from what you've had to endure.

“Azrella be praised!” Wimzy calls out in relief. “By the Blue Lady that foul stench is everywhere!”

Butternut chuckles at her fellow halfling's comment. "I think we brought some of it with us." She makes a show of sniffing herself, as they have all gotten even riper since falling into the putrid water some days ago.

Flare chuckles at Butternut's pantomiming.

It's good to finally feel - and see in others - an air of lightness and calm. It has been a trying few days..? weeks?

While Sann goes off to check on his mule, Butternut starts to walk the perimeter of the open area. She finds what appears to be a trail, and waves Flare over. "Found a trail here, Flare. I think it leads toward the top of the Eagle's Nest that we were supposed to locate."

"Yes, I have no doubt this would be the best way to reach the Eagle's Nest."

Flare tries to remember something, but his thoughts are foggy. He steps away from Butternut.

Our orders were to locate Chimera Squad and...?

Nothing else comes to him.

We've come this far. Certainly, we must continue onto the Eagle's Nest. But what will we find there? More horde? More traps? Perhaps a greater evil?

His thoughts are getting the best of him. It's obvious that Flare isn't as calm and relaxed as he would like to be. Damn.

He fumbles in his layers, hoping to find a small flask of his delicious berry elixir. Do not hide from me, you petulant little bottle!

Flare will be curious to hear from Vernar and Lucyus what the squad's next move will be.

[Vernar]

Vernar -

“Now there be a smell to gladen the heart o' any dwarf!”, Sann says almost giddy in regards to the smell of the forge area. “We didn' get far at'all when those sons o' rat droppin's swarmed us and drove us ta that pit! Then those worgs pounced!”

Vernar takes in the smell for a moment, but sadly it doesn't rekindle any memories. What else have I lost, he ponders solemnly while they press on. The small blacksmithy in the human village he knew as home was nothing like this dwarven work.

It isn't long, and then Sann is fully aware of where we are, and he takes off as fast as his stout frame allows. Thankfully Butternut is more than able to provide cover for the distracted dwarf. Vernar emerges outside, blinking in the midday light as his eyes adjust. He walks a short distance and takes three deep breaths, ignoring his own stench. Thankfully they were inside a dwarven hold instead of a tight, natural cavern. He may of been of no use to his companions if their situation was different, and Vernar silently vows to work on overcoming his anxiety and disability.

While Sann goes off to check on his mule, Butternut starts to walk the perimeter of the open area. She finds what appears to be a trail, and waves Flare over. "Found a trail here, Flare. I think it leads toward the top of the Eagle's Nest that we were supposed to locate." If he agrees, she calls Vernar and Lucyus over and shows them the trailhead.

"Yes, I have no doubt this would be the best way to reach the Eagle's Nest."

Vernar walks over to where Butternut and Flare are looking over a trail and nods at the assessment. "Let's give everyone a few more minutes an' then press on," Vernar suggests. "We be havin' plenty o' light left."

With that, Vernar goes and finds a spot to sit and keep an eye on the entrance of the dwarven lair. He will rummage through his pack and find something edible to chew on while everyone takes a little time to unwind from their recent adventure. Once the group seems ready, Vernar will join the rest of them and head off once more.

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa

"Oh. Okay," Vardra says with a sharp nod. Dropping the unconscious goblin to the hard floor, he draws his sword and drives it through the creature's chest until the point strikes the floor. "Done." Withdrawing the sword from the now-dead body, he wipes the goblin's blood from the blade onto its scaps of clothing.

Kaylessa watches as Varda drives his sword through the Goblin that unfortunately met his shield several times. “Then let us be free of this place.” She says as several of the others are moving away south.
As she catches up to the middle of the group she hears Sann “

Sann dashes of towards the stairs and up them. “Entrance be this way!”

“Lead on good dwarf!” she calls out as she takes to the steps. After several minutes of running the smell of fresh air begins to become more apparent as the light becomes brighter and the smells of the forest become more abundant.
Kaylessa squints as the bright light cuts through the darkness. The smell of the forest invades her nose as she feels soft earth beneath her feet. Then the god awful smell of rancid water comes to her nose as well as the others.

Wimzy wrote:“Azrella be praised!” Wimzy calls out in relief. “By the Blue Lady that foul stench is everywhere!”
Butternut chuckles at her fellow halfling's comment. "I think we brought some of it with us." She makes a show of sniffing herself, as they have all gotten even riper since falling into the putrid water some days ago.

“I am afraid that it is us!” She states as she looks at her blouse where the color is no longer tellable. “It is good to be free of that place, Though I fear we should not linger here for to long.”as she looks to the scouts looking at the trail and then to Vernar as he takes a moment to eat and relax.
Walking over to a pine tree near by she takes some small limbs. “At least it will battle the smell.” She says to herself. As she begins to use the needles to combat the smell.
“What is our course now? To the Eagle’s Nest or return to report our findings?” she asks Lucyus and Vernar.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus
Taking up the rear, Lucyus soon walks past Varda as he is munching on bread. Silently the Paladin looks at the soldier slightly confused but then realizes their food was purified.

Catching back up with Flare and Lucyus, they reach some stairs heading up. The breeze coming from that opening feels wonderful. "Nice breeze," he says to his companions. "We must be getting close to the entrance."

“Heironous be praised.”he says as he looks to Varda and Flare. “I will be glad once we are free of this infernal trap.” He says his frustration and relief apparent in his voice.

While Sann goes off to check on his mule, Butternut starts to walk the perimeter of the open area. She finds what appears to be a trail, and waves Flare over. "Found a trail here, Flare. I think it leads toward the top of the Eagle's Nest that we were supposed to locate." If he agrees, she calls Vernar and Lucyus over and shows them the trailhead.

As Butternut comes over to him, his eyes are still adjusting to the light. His nose twitches at the smell of rancid water and blood of goblins. His tomach grumbles as he takes out some rations and takes a bite. “Well done, Butternut. Let’us see what you have found.”
Lucyus goes and sees the trail head that the scouts have found. A trail that appears to head toward the Eagle’s nest! “Well done. If we follow this we should find our mounts and then to the Eagle’s Nest. Would you be able to lay a false trail?”he asks curiously to the scouts. “Our Goblin friends may seek us out, we will need to distance our selves from them.”
As he makes his way to Vernar, takes another bite of rations as the she elf questions their next move.

Walking over to a pine tree near by she takes some small limbs. “At least it will battle the smell.” She says to herself. As she begins to use the needles to combat the smell.
“What is our course now? To the Eagle’s Nest or return to report our findings?” she asks Lucyus and Vernar.

“I would think to find our mounts, We have completed our mission in part finding your group. As both our Sgts. Are no lomger with us, our choices are just few. Reach Eagle’s Nest or return and fill the army in what is found.” He says to the others. His military upbringing tells him the best course. “If we go to the Eagle’s nest we will surely have a fight on our hands in liberating or defending the fort.”
“Looking at the scouts, Do you think there is another way to the Eagle’s nest? Or do we have to return to the tunnels?”
Looking to Vernar, “To the Eagle’s nest?” he asks simply. “From there we may be able to light a beacon Fire for the Army to see.”

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

The situation unravels as the goblins break and run, flooding out in multiple directions, the Stone Dwarf lumbering after them. Erisciana moves into position in the middle doorway to the arena, taking Kendall's place next to Lucyus and Vardra. Some of the goblins move north, but the majority of them continue south due to the congestion caused. It is almost like a river flowing by, the priestess thinks as the waves of little ugly humanoids rush past. Occasionally one or two would try to slip out the opening they protected but would be turned aside on their shields. Erisciana realizes that there is not much need to strike at the passing goblins and the ones that do come their way are turned aside. She does take the opportunity to lash out at one of them that runs right at her and slams her mace into the unsuspecting goblin's forehead. It crumples and she hits it again, letting out a yell which expressed her frustration over their predicament.

The group hunkers down in place, turtling up in a defensive posture, which proves effective. The moment is tense as many things could continue to go awry, but it is almost comical as the the roaring Stone Dwarf rushes by chasing the goblin horde. It is like a parody of one of the heroic plays that would be enacted in the theatre halls back home. Then all of a sudden, the noise was drifting off and the chaos of the moment came to an unexpected end.

After a few moments, the group moves forward, following behind the goblin stampede and the following golem. The carnage is horrific. There are crushed, trampled and mangled goblin corpses littering the hallways as they travel along. The going is slow as blood, guts and bodies, whole and partial, must be avoided throughout the passages. Torches are lit along the way, which aids in careful stepping.

Eventually there is a commotion ahead and Erisci steels herself for a possible combat but it turns out they have reached the exit. As she exits the caverns, the priestess will take a look around the area, ready for potential trouble. But the sky is bright and sunny, the air a touch warmer. The feel of it on her skin is a welcome feeling. She closes her eyes a moment and drinks in the fresh, clean air.

“Azrella be praised!” Wimzy calls out in relief. “By the Blue Lady that foul stench is everywhere!”

"Indeed, fair Wimzy. Free from that foul cavern finally." The priestess observes the rest of the group. Everyone looked as might be expected from such an adventure. And sadly, it was not yet over. The group relaxed a moment, the tension of their ordeal fading from their bodies. But soon they were back to the seriousness of the situation.

Butternut and Flare identify their approximate location as being near to the entrance to Eagle's Nest. A short discussion begins about whether they should go to Eagle's Nest or return to the fort. "Our horses are all gated at the entrance to Eagle's Nest, if you recall," she says to the group in general. "Provided they have not been disturbed. They will likely be hungry, but there is food there for them and us."

"Sergeant Traken told us our mission was to find Chimera Squad, which we did. The implied part of our mission was to complete that which was assigned to Chimera as well, that is to set the appropriate flag. I am not certain that we can consider the goblin infestation here to be an impending danger, but certainly the remnants that the Stone Dwarf does not deal with will need to be addressed. That however seems to be somebody else's problem to worry about how to resolve."

She looks to the others for a moment. "The sooner we see to that final detail, the sooner we can return to the fort and recover. Shall we be off?

[Kendell]

Kendell:

Sword, shield and torch in hand, Kendell makes his way along the hallway, stepping over and around the mangled bodies of goblins. Kendell can barely make out talk of a light up ahead, but he can feel the breeze on his own. The group moves along at a good clip and finally emerge into the light of day! It takes a few minutes for the large warrior eyes to adjust to the light, but the smells are a welcome change!

The others talk about what to do next, but Kendell doesn't pay much attention to it. He will accept food if any is offered to him. There are a few mules here, but there is not enough to carry everyone. So its a long walk to come.

“We should bring the mules along with us,” Kendell calls out. “They can carry an extra gear and give our backs a break.”

When the group moves out, Kendell will walk along near the back unless he is asked to go into a different position. He'll guide a mule or two as we walk along.

[Sorvani]

Sorvani:

With a torch in one hand and his longsword in the other, Sorvani follows the group as they move along this new hallway. Talk of a light up ahead is heard and a breeze is felt. The rescued dwarf thinks that that is the way to go and so we are off! The dwarf was right and we find a doorway much like the one that let us into the dwarven lair from the caves. However, this one is broken down and wide open. Perhaps the goblins broke into this area?

Beyond the door is the great outdoors, a sight that Sorvani was not sure he'd ever see again after all those days underground. He follows the others outside and just revels in the feeling for a few minutes. Soon talk turns to what to do next as both squads lost their commanders.

Vernar wants to move on while they have the light. A sentiment that Sorvani can agree with. Talk then turns on what to do after that.

“The priestess is correct,” Sorvani says in regards to what Erisciana said. “Our horses and supplies are back at the base of the Eagle Nest area. Those need to be recovered, otherwise is a very long walk back to Fort Graystone.”

“Our mission was to reach the Eagle's Nest and if the pass leading back to the fort was clear then fly the all clear flag. If enemy forces were spotted than the danger flag was to be flown. Given that neither of us have reached Eagle's Nest to fly a flag, the army might have sent another squad to check on us. We need to get back there to recover our mounts and food. And to make sure no one else falls into this same trap.”

Sorvani will be ready to move out when the time comes.

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

Kaylessa watches as Vardra drives his sword through the Goblin that unfortunately met his shield several times. “Then let us be free of this place.” She says as several of the others are moving away south.

"Sounds like a plan to me." Vardra wipes off his sword with a scrap of the goblin's clothing.

"I do find it difficult to be at ease while we are still in this mountain, Vardra. So, yes, happy to be an extra set of eyes, watching the back of the squad."

Vardra nods as he takes another bite. "Me too. Growing up near the sea, mountains were something far away. Being deep in the bowels of one is... unsettling."

"Butternut and Ren have firm control of our front. They work well together."

"I would agree." Vardra kicks the mangled body of a goblin out of the way as he and Flare make their way down the hall.

"I'm thinking about our fallen squad members. We lost Sgt Traken. His body is still in this mountain somewhere. I know you lost good people too. If we make it out of this blasted place, will we be able to retrieve their bodies?"

This is the most words Vardra has heard from this man since they met the previous day. Perhaps the ranger has trouble warming up to people, or perhaps it is a sign of just how discomfited he is in this place. "Aye. We lost our sergeant, Dewcan by name, along with a half-elf named Roleth and a dwarf by the name of Tagith. I didn't know them long or well, but none of them deserved to die in this dirty, stinking hole."

"Praise Selune, nice breeze indeed!"

The happiness in Flare's voice brings a smile to Vardra's face. He had seemed so morose up until now...

“Heironous be praised.”he says as he looks to Varda and Flare. “I will be glad once we are free of this infernal trap.” He says his frustration and relief apparent in his voice.

Vardra can hear the mixed feelings in the paladin's voice. "Praise be. The gods have delivered us, and that is good enough for me."

“The priestess is correct,” Sorvani says in regards to what Erisciana said. “Our horses and supplies are back at the base of the Eagle Nest area. Those need to be recovered, otherwise is a very long walk back to Fort Graystone.”

“Our mission was to reach the Eagle's Nest and if the pass leading back to the fort was clear then fly the all clear flag. If enemy forces were spotted than the danger flag was to be flown. Given that neither of us have reached Eagle's Nest to fly a flag, the army might have sent another squad to check on us. We need to get back there to recover our mounts and food. And to make sure no one else falls into this same trap.”

A discussion of their next task springs up, involving Butternut, Vernar, Erisciana, Lucyus, and Sorvani. There seems to be disagreement regarding both their mission and priorities. "Sorvani is right that our mission was to reach the Eagle's Nest and fly the correct flag depending on what we can see from there. That will inform the commanders back at the fort of the situation here so that they can plan the army's next actions. I believe this is our first priority.

"When we approached this hill, no other path up was found, so the only way back to our mounts is through the mountain." Vardra points back to the gate from which they just emerged. "That risks falling afoul of that treacherous slide once again. Identifying the trigger for that trap should be our second priority after we clear the Eagle's Nest and signal the fort. Once that is done, then retrieving our mounts and supplies will be relatively easy."

Vardra grimaces as he considers the goblins that still remain. "Our third priority should be to clear out all of the goblins from this dwarven fort. While there are not a lot remaining and do not constitute a major threat to the army, still, they could harass and delay the troops. That could leave them open to attack from another direction."

“We should bring the mules along with us,” Kendell calls out. “They can carry an extra gear and give our backs a break.”

"Good idea, my friend." Vernar gives the large warrior a friendly slap on the back. "I for one would be happy to let them carry my backpack while we go clear Eagle's Nest."

[Butternut]

Butternut:

"Indeed, fair Wimzy. Free from that foul cavern finally." The priestess observes the rest of the group. Everyone looked as might be expected from such an adventure. And sadly, it was not yet over. The group relaxed a moment, the tension of their ordeal fading from their bodies. But soon they were back to the seriousness of the situation.

“I am afraid that it is us!” She states as she looks at her blouse where the color is no longer tellable. “It is good to be free of that place, Though I fear we should not linger here for to long.”as she looks to the scouts looking at the trail and then to Vernar as he takes a moment to eat and relax.

"Yup, we're almost as fetid as those putrid gobbos." It is becoming more and more apparent to Butternut that her perspective is at odds with that of most of her companions. "Frankly, other than the goblin stench, I rather liked it in there. In a lot of ways, I seem to have more in common with dwarves than most of my own people." Of course, there are no more of 'her own people', at least as regards her clan. But there are other halflings in the world, as evidenced by Wimzy's presence.

"Yes, I have no doubt this would be the best way to reach the Eagle's Nest."

The young human ranger approaches, chuckling at her humor regarding their stench. Butternut gives him a quick grin. "Then we're in agreement. I'll let Vernar know."

Vernar walks over to where Butternut and Flare are looking over a trail and nods at the assessment. "Let's give everyone a few more minutes an' then press on," Vernar suggests. "We be havin' plenty o' light left."

The suggestion of a few minutes rest is appealing. Butternut realizes that she's a bit fatigued after the treacherous morning they've had so far. "Sounds good to me."

As Butternut comes over to him, his eyes are still adjusting to the light. His nose twitches at the smell of rancid water and blood of goblins. His tomach grumbles as he takes out some rations and takes a bite. “Well done, Butternut. Let’us see what you have found.”
Lucyus goes and sees the trail head that the scouts have found. A trail that appears to head toward the Eagle’s nest! “Well done. If we follow this we should find our mounts and then to the Eagle’s Nest. Would you be able to lay a false trail?”he asks curiously to the scouts. “Our Goblin friends may seek us out, we will need to distance our selves from them.”

Butternut considers for a moment. "Our mounts are back that way," she says, pointing back into the dwarven fortress. "There may be a spot where you can look down at where we entered, but getting there is likely to involve a long drop and a hard stop. As for laying a false trail, I'm not sure this plateau is big enough to do so convincingly. What do you think, Flare?" Observing the position of the sun and their position on the hill, Butternut attempts to ascertain roughly which direction they entered from.

“I would think to find our mounts, We have completed our mission in part finding your group. As both our Sgts. Are no lomger with us, our choices are just few. Reach Eagle’s Nest or return and fill the army in what is found.” He says to the others. His military upbringing tells him the best course. “If we go to the Eagle’s nest we will surely have a fight on our hands in liberating or defending the fort.”

Lucyus seems to be making assumptions that may or may not be accurate. "Considering that we have yet to lay eyes on the Eagle's Nest, we have no way of knowing whether it is defended or not at this point. Or by whom, if it is defended."

“Looking at the scouts, Do you think there is another way to the Eagle’s nest? Or do we have to return to the tunnels?”

Pausing a moment to think about what she has seen, Butternut puts the pieces together as best she can. "There doesn't appear to be any other trail up here. However, we may be able to travel in the same direction while staying off the trail, if you're concerned about dead-falls and such.

"It is also possible that there is a way to get there through the dwarven tunnels, but we've explored so little of them, it is hard to get a feel for how extensive they may be. Seems like a crap-shoot to me."

Vardra grimaces as he considers the goblins that still remain. "Our third priority should be to clear out all of the goblins from this dwarven fort. While there are not a lot remaining and do not constitute a major threat to the army, still, they could harass and delay the troops. That could leave them open to attack from another direction."

A malicious smile creases Butternut's face. "Hey, now you're talking! Any plan that involves wiping out those green freaks is a good plan in my book!"

______________________________________________________________________________________
Honestly, I'm not real clear on the geography out here. It seems clear that they are above where they entered, but whether they are on the side of a hill, or near the top, or on some kind of plateau part way up, I don't know. Similarly, I'm not sure if the Eagle's Nest is just an overlook, a constructed fortification, or some kind of tower is also uncertain. Of course, that may be intentional...

[Erisciana]

The rangers can tell that you are not too far away from the Eagle's Nest where this adventure all started. Flare is pretty sure he knows the proper direction to go in. A trail does lead away from the dwarven now goblin lair back in the general direction of Eagle's Nest.

My impression is that we are effectively at the same equivalent "level" as the cave entrance where the horses are. We slid a long way and haven't come up very far. The trail may go up a little or down a little but basically we are close to the same point.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed