Operation: Graystone #12

[GM Mad]

Operation: Graystone #12

April 13th, CR 569

After their harrowing adventure beneath the mountain, Chimera and Wyvern Squads have returned to the base of the Eagle's Nest outpost. The outpost itself is higher up the mountain. A tunnel circles its way up the mountain to reach a small tower and quarters area that is the real outpost. The base of the mountain serves as a stable for mounts. However this stable is currently filled with mounts, seven for each of the squadrons and the five mules that you brought with Sann. Given the number of mounts (19), and the waste that they leave behind, it is decided to camp outside in the fresh air. Everyone cleans up while a camp fire for the evening is built.

Butternut gives the soldier a sharp nod, then turns to gather up her extra clothes and wash rag before heading off to the stream with her pony in tow. Wimzy falls in beside her as they walk over toward the stream. "It will be good to wash some of this stink off," she says to her fellow halfling. It has been a long time since she's had the opportunity to talk with one of her own people. "Whereabouts in the shires do you hail from? What clan?"

“That it will,” Wimzy agrees. “Actually my family is in Crossroads. I've never been to the Shires before. I had ancestors from the Shires, but that was long ago. I believe they were of Clan Gerlia.”

The group discusses matters long into the night before eventually turning in for the evening. A watch is set up for the evening consisting of four watches of two hours duration. Flare and Lucyus take the very first watch and the night drags on.


April 14th, CR 569

At the end of their shift, Flare and Lucyus turn in for the evening after waking up the next pair to take over for the watch. The second watch consists of Sorvani and Vernar.

Once more the hours slowly creep by and all is quiet. At last their shift is coming to a close and the third set of watchers are roused from their sleep. This time it is Kendell and Vardra. As the humans are coming out of their sleep, Vernar is drawn away to a noise off in the distance. Moving away from the others, Vernar can now clearly hear something come up the trail. It sounds like many somethings!

Daring a look around the curve the trail takes to reach the Eagle's Nest outpost, Vernar can see what appears to be a around a dozen goblins approaching! These goblins are armed and wear leather armor. Among the goblins, and standing much taller than them, are two other beings. They both look like half-orcs!

This approaching group has not seen Vernar just yet, but it is only a matter of time!

[GM Mad]

GM Notes

I wasn’t sure if Butternut works the same way for spells as she is a Elementalist, I am not familiar with.

Butternut's spells are standard mage spells. Its her elementalist training that makes them different. Other mages have their usual chance to learn spells from Butternuts book.

A Read Magic spell will allow a mage to instantly understand another mages spell book. The chance to figure out and learn the spells is unchanged. It is possible to try and figure out a spell book without using a Read Magic, but that can take days or weeks to accomplish.

There are about a dozen goblins approaching and two half-orcs are leading them. The half-orcs are male and female. The male is wearing leather armor, while the female just a normal adventuring clothing. They are maybe 5 minutes away from the camp and once they clear the curve, the campfire will be clearly visible to them.

Now what?

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Vernar's suggestion seems to flop as several of the humans prattle on further. Vernar cannot tell if it is disappointment, anger, or something else that causes Erisciana to tell some strange tale, but he begins to wonder if she is truly capable of leading.

She pauses for a moment to let the situation she described become clear. Continuing on, she curtly ends, "The donkey starved to death."

"Comparin' those you seek t' lead with donkeys will not endear yourself t' 'em," Vernar replies flatly. His shift begins in just a few short hours, and so he finds a good spot and lays down with his head on his pack.

Soon he is woken up, and after rubbing his eyes a moment, Vernar puts on his armor and grabs his weapons. The shift passes quietly until it is time to wake his relief. As Kendell and Vardra begin to stir, Vernar hears something that doesn't sound right. Their animals aren't spooked, but it clearly wasn't them either. The dwarf quietly heads off in the direction of the trail to investigate.

Daring a look around the curve the trail takes to reach the Eagle's Nest outpost, Vernar can see what appears to be a around a dozen goblins approaching! These goblins are armed and wear leather armor. Among the goblins, and standing much taller than them, are two other beings. They both look like half-orcs!

Vernar slips back and moves quietly to the camp. The enemy group is not seemingly aware that we are camped so close by. He moves up to the others, hoping to catch Sorvani before he settles in. He quickly tells the trio, "12 an' 2 approach," distinguishing that there are two types of foes while pointing in the direction of the trail. "Goblins an' half orcs," he adds with a whisper as he moves to start waking some of the others.

He goes over to Lucyus and puts his hand on the man's chest. "Wake, my friend," he says quietly but firmly. "We have need o' your axe. Goblins an' half orcs approach, but they know not we be here yet."

Hopefully the others already awake will assist in alerting a few more of their number. Vernar does not want to wake the spellcasters, but he doesn't know the strength of their opposition. Assuming he still has time, he will move to Butternut next.

He will touch her upper arm, nudging harder if she does not stir, and quickly say in a whisper, "Trouble almost be here. Goblins an' half orcs on the trail. I mean t' ambush 'em."

Vernar will then move to a position off the trail to ambush the enemy. He will lead with his axe when the moment is right, throwing it at one of them in the second rank closest to him. This way, the lead members may hopefully turn around, even if for a moment. This will hopefully buy Vernar's companions another moment to strike from surprise. Vernar will then fight with sword and dagger against any who rush his position.

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

"Comparin' those you seek t' lead with donkeys will not endear yourself t' 'em," Vernar replies flatly. His shift begins in just a few short hours, and so he finds a good spot and lays down with his head on his pack.

There is a grunt of agreement from where Vardra is preparing for his night's sleep. It is not long before it is followed by soft snoring.


It seems no time at all when Vardra is awakened for his shift. Stretching and yawning, he rises and arms himself. Something in Vernar's behavior as he moves off makes Vardra wonder if something is amiss. He gives Sorvani a quizzical glance. "Something up, Sorvani?"

By the time Vernar returns, Vardra has his chest piece on and is just strapping on his sword. While it would be good to put on the rest of his armor, he's not sure he has time for that.

Vernar slips back and moves quietly to the camp. The enemy group is not seemingly aware that we are camped so close by. He moves up to the others, hoping to catch Sorvani before he settles in. He quickly tells the trio, "12 an' 2 approach," distinguishing that there are two types of foes while pointing in the direction of the trail. "Goblins an' half orcs," he adds with a whisper as he moves to start waking some of the others.

"Understood," Vardra replies in a whisper. "We should wake the others."

Putting actions to words and seeing Vernar already moving to wake Lucyus, he steps over to Flare's bedroll. He hates to wake one who just got off guard duty a few hours before, but it cannot be helped. "Sorry, Flare, but we need you," he says softly, lighting shaking the young woodsman. "We got trouble coming up the path."

Once he's clear that Flare's awake and aware, Vardra moves on to Kaylessa. Kneeling down by her bedroll, he shakes her shoulder gently. "We've got trouble coming, Kaylessa. Get ready."

Before Vernar moves too far away, Vardra moves over next to him. "What is our strategy? They're going to have an advantage with their ability to see in the dark."

If Vernar seems uncertain, then Vardra will put forth an idea. "I'd suggest having the sneaky types circle around and take up position in the woods on the far side of the trail. Then the rest of us remain hiding in the cave. When the greenskins move into the light of the fire, we hit them from two sides - ranged attacks first, then charge into melee."

______________________________________________________________________________
I wasn't sure how long it would take Vernar to spy on the goblins, but I've stripped Vardra back to just his chest piece as indicated.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

“That it will,” Wimzy agrees. “Actually my family is in Crossroads. I've never been to the Shires before. I had ancestors from the Shires, but that was long ago. I believe they were of Clan Gerlia.”

Butternut nods as she listens to her fellow halfling. "Clan Gerlia... I've heard of them. I believe they are mostly situated further to the west from where we were. Our clan was the most easterly of the Shire clans, which I suppose left us somewhat exposed. I guess we thought being close to the human lands would protect us..."

A moment of rumination before Butternut continues. "What was it like, a halfling growing up in a big city filled with humans?"

===

Eri starts off on some long, meandering tale, but Butternut doesn't bother to listen, just tucks in and goes to sleep.

The next thing she knows, a nudge on her arm wakes her in the middle of the night. Looking up, she sees Vernar.

He will touch her upper arm, nudging harder if she does not stir, and quickly say in a whisper, "Trouble almost be here. Goblins an' half orcs on the trail. I mean t' ambush 'em."

"Good," Butternut replies as she drags herself out of bed. "I mean to join you." As she has no armor, Butternut quickly straps on her short sword and daggers, then snatches up her crossbow.

Gliding over to Ren, Butternut gives him a nudge with her foot. "Wake up, sleepyhead," she says softly. "We got more goblins to kill."

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

Butternut shrugs. "It seems you also misunderstood why Vernar proposed delaying the vote until the morning. Nevertheless, if it means that much to you, I vote for Vernar to lead."

"Perhaps I did. Enough people seem awake enough to argue, but somehow not awake enough to make an actual decision," Erisci says flatly. "It's not that it means much to me, it SHOULD mean much to the group." She shakes her head at the continued lack of understanding and lack of wanting to understand. Clearly this is a waste of time continuing.

Hearing Butternut's comment, Vardra speaks up from where he was preparing to lie down. "Aye, that sounds good to me. Vernar to lead, and myself as second." He will lie awake for a little while to see if anyone else chooses to vote before morning.

Erisci looks quizzically at the fighter's statement. She doesn't say anything but finds it very odd that Vardra was the one to suggest new leadership and implying while doing so that their leaders, Vernar and Lucyus, were making bad decisions. Then he proceeds to first suggest himself and Lucyus as leaders, then votes for himself and Vernar. This one clearly has some agenda.

[OOC - Her little fable is not long and meandering. It takes less than 30 seconds to state.]

"Comparin' those you seek t' lead with donkeys will not endear yourself t' 'em," Vernar replies flatly. His shift begins in just a few short hours, and so he finds a good spot and lays down with his head on his pack.

The priestess sighs. "As I mentioned, it is a fable. It is allegorical. Surely they have stories here meant to illustrate a moral lesson? Clearly the point is not that it is a donkey. It could be a bird or a lion or anything. The point is that delaying decisions can lead to continued delaying of decisions which has it's own consequences." The priestess cares not to continue with the pedantry that has overcome the group and moves away to pray to her goddess.


Having had time to meditate and recite the litany of orison, Erisciana will settle down to sleep near where she finished her prayers, further up the hill, away from the cave entrance and some distance from the fire. She settles in near the mountain wall and falls into a slumber.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

He goes over to Lucyus and puts his hand on the man's chest. "Wake, my friend," he says quietly but firmly. "We have need o' your axe. Goblins an' half orcs approach, but they know not we be here yet."

Sleeping soundly after his watch, Lucyus turns on to his back in slumber. Soon after a hand is placed upon his chest. A faint whisper is heard as his right hand grips a dagger and he groggily opens his eyes as he brings the dagger up sleepily.
“What?”he says groggily as he rubs his eyes then it hits him. Goblins and Half Orcs are near. Lucyus shakes his head as he gets to his feet and gathers his shield and axe. Looking around he can see the others in various stages of getting awake and ready for the coming conflict.
A sudden thought comes to his mind as he sees Wimzy sleeping, He goes over and nudges the Halfling, “Wake up my good Halfling. We have need of your prayers.”once the Halfling is awake, he will say to Wimzy. “Eris is not within our camp and will be helpless pray to the humanoids if they catch her unawares. Please Wake her and join us.. I pray we will not need our blessings of healing but one cannot be to careful.”he says lightly.
As he moves towards the others he hears Vardra’s statements.

Before Vernar moves too far away, Vardra moves over next to him. "What is our strategy? They're going to have an advantage with their ability to see in the dark."
If Vernar seems uncertain, then Vardra will put forth an idea. "I'd suggest having the sneaky types circle around and take up position on the far side of the trail. Then the rest of us split into two groups; one group move a bit further down the trail the other direction and find cover, the remaining group hide in the cave. When the greenskins move into the light of the fire, we hit them from three sides with ranged attacks first, then charge into melee.

“No they will not. I can drop a light spell to encompass them. It will confuse them and hamper them. Looking to Vardra, “Our armor will give us away long before we are able to do so. These Half orcs? They should be dealt with first.”
Looking to Sorvani, “Do you still have spells ready, my friend?” Then to Kaylessa, “Do you? If you have sleep cast it as I encompass these half orcs in light. If you still do focus any spell you have remaining on any spellcasters. If we take out these Half orcs the goblins may break and run. Looking to Flare, Butternut and Ren, "Use your arrows to thin the herd, focus on any spellcaster that arises. Kendell, Vardra And I can engage their center, working our way to the Half orcs, killing goblins as we go.”
"I sent Wimzy to wake, Eris, she would be easy pickings for any humanoid that finds her..."

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa

Once he's clear that Flare's awake and aware, Vardra moves on to Kaylessa. Kneeling down by her bedroll, he shakes her shoulder gently. "We've got trouble coming, Kaylessa. Get ready."

“And I was having such a” as she gets up and falls over from her sleepiness, “dream.” Righting herself she picks up her shortswords and pulls on her quiver. Her bow in her right hand she hears the sound of someone struggling. Looking over she sees Lucyus needing help to get up! The Paladin has slept in his armor! She then follows Lucyus and Vardra.

Looking to Sorvani, “Do you still have spells ready, my friend?” Then to Kaylessa, “Do you? If you have sleep cast it as I encompass these half orcs in light. If you still do focus any spell you have remaining on any spellcasters. If we take out these Half orcs the goblins may break and run.

“If I had a Sleep spell I could have cast it upon their ranks as you enlighten them. . I’ll use my arrows to thin them out,"Looking to Flare take the same target till it falls?” she asks the ranger.
Kaylessa will wait until the group comes into range and drop a Sleep spell on them,then begin using her bow. (Half Orc female first target.)

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Some quick notes here. Putting on heavier armor takes time. Here's the breakdown:

1 minute - Leather, Studded Leather

5 minutes - Hide and Scale Armor

10 minutes - Chain Mail & Splint.

The posts puts the enemy at about 5 minutes out, so there is not enough time to put on the chain mail or the splint armor. Although, Vardra could at least put the chest piece on for some measure of protection. Splint mail is in individual pieces that need to be pit on separately. Chain mail is one big piece that is very slow to put on.

Likewise, no one has had time to regain spells yet. Kaylessa used her Sleep and Magic Missile down in the dwarven lair. Lucyus has 1 Light spell left.

Edited to add Map:

Here is a quick and dirty map for the area as I've been asked to provide better details about the terrain.

graystone026.jpg (134.65 KiB) Viewed 8206 times

The orange dot is the groups campfire. That black arch close to it is the entrance to the stables area and the way up the mountain. The green is the lightly forested area with the blue being the water running through it. The darker gray is the mountain itself, with the lighter gray supposed to be hillsides. The trail leading here ran back and forth as it went up the hills to reach this small plateau. The brown is the trail itself. One side of the trail is the steeper slopes either going up towards the mountain, or back down to the areas below.

It is nighttime, but those without infravision are not as blind as they were while underground in complete darkness. They can see some, just not as well as those with night sight. Eris would between the cave opening and the stream along the base of the mountain. G is the position of the advancing goblins. They are not moving as if they are expecting trouble.

[Kendell]

Kendell:

Kendell lets out a loud yawn as he is woke for guard duty.

“So soon?” he wonders.

As he is gathering his wits, the dwarf comes up saying that company is a callin'!

Vernar slips back and moves quietly to the camp. The enemy group is not seemingly aware that we are camped so close by. He moves up to the others, hoping to catch Sorvani before he settles in. He quickly tells the trio, "12 an' 2 approach," distinguishing that there are two types of foes while pointing in the direction of the trail. "Goblins an' half orcs," he adds with a whisper as he moves to start waking some of the others.

“More goblins?” Kendell wonders. “Really? They recovered fast.”

Seeing that he does not have time to put on his armor, Kendell grabs his shield and his sword and follows after the dwarf. He'll take a position right around the corner where the mountain curves. Hopefully he'll be able to get some surprise attacks in before the enemy knows what hit them!

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

“And I was having such a” as she gets up and falls over from her sleepiness, “dream.” Righting herself she picks up her shortswords and pulls on her quiver. Her bow in her right hand she hears the sound of someone struggling. Looking over she sees Lucyus needing help to get up! The Paladin has slept in his armor! She then follows Lucyus and Vardra.

"Steady there," Vardra says, putting out his hand as Kaylessa appears to lose her balance and helping her up. It takes a moment, but Vardra can see in her eyes that she's awake and ready, so he moves on.

“No they will not. I can drop a light spell to encompass them. It will confuse them and hamper them. Looking to Vardra, “Our armor will give us away long before we are able to do so. These Half orcs? They should be dealt with first.”

"That should help, too," Vardra says regarding the light spell. "And you make a good point about the half-orcs. I will make them my priority."

Lucyus goes on to talk with the spell-casters, but that is not Vardra's area of expertise, so he will leave that to them.

____________________________________________________________________________________
The map is very helpful. I have edited my previous post to correct my mistaken impression of the surroundings.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Looking to Flare, Butternut and Ren, "Use your arrows to thin the herd, focus on any spellcaster that arises. Kendell, Vardra And I can engage their center, working our way to the Half orcs, killing goblins as we go.”

Butternut nods, then heads out after Vernar into the forested area. She moves to the southern edge of the wooded area, and finds a spot of cover as close to the road as possible. She intends to cut off any escape once the gobbos have gone by. Readying her crossbow, she studies the killing zone in front of her while listening for their approach.

[Sorvani]

Sorvani:

Sorvani is roused from his sleep for this turn at guard duty with Vernar joining him. At least the dwarf can see in the dark, while Sorvani will use a torch when he does move away from the campsite to compensate for his limited sight The shift goes quietly enough and soon it is time to wake the next group of guards. While waking the deep sleeping country boy, Vernar moves off as if alerted to something.

It seems no time at all when Vardra is awakened for his shift. Stretching and yawning, he rises and arms himself. Something in Vernar's behavior as he moves off makes Vardra wonder if something is amiss. He gives Sorvani a quizzical glance. "Something up, Sorvani?"

“Not as far as I know,” Sorvani answers, as equally confused by the dwarfs actions.

Vernar slips back and moves quietly to the camp. The enemy group is not seemingly aware that we are camped so close by. He moves up to the others, hoping to catch Sorvani before he settles in. He quickly tells the trio, "12 an' 2 approach," distinguishing that there are two types of foes while pointing in the direction of the trail. "Goblins an' half orcs," he adds with a whisper as he moves to start waking some of the others.

“I guess that makes sense,” Sorvani adds. “They like the dark, so if they were going to come after us it would be at night. Guess that means the Stone Dwarf missed a few of the runts.”

More of the group is woken up as an attack seems imminent.

Looking to Sorvani, “Do you still have spells ready, my friend?”

“Yeah, I never used them,” Sorvani answers. “I've got a pair of Magic Missiles ready. I'll back up big country and use them when the time seems right.”

Drawing his longsword, Sorvani will trail after Kendell. He'll cast his Magic Missiles at any obvious spell caster, otherwise use the longsword if engaged.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus
Lucyus thanks Kaylessa for helping him up then heads off to the others. He looks about briefly trying to spot Eris, perhaps she will hear the coming battle if Wimzy is unable to find her and wake from her slumber.
Casting the thought from his mind, Lucyus rolls his shoulder as he adjusts his shield then his axe. He Moves near Kendell and Sorvani. As soon as Lucyus sees the first humanoid he will cast Light on it’s weapon. He will then move in with axe and shield.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

It is the middle of the night when Vernar becomes aware of goblins approaching the combined squads camp! Those who are sleeping are quickly woken up as there is only a few minutes before the unwanted guests arrive. Wimzy is sent to locate Erisciana who camped away from the others. The halfling priestess grabs a torch and lights it in the campfire before scampering off after Eris.

A quick plan of battle is formulated. Those with ranged attacks are to move off into the light forest and attack from there, while the warriors await around the bend next to the path the goblins will be arriving on.

Ren has some opinions to offer. “I have no ranged attacks,” the gnome speaks up, “therefore I have no reason to go off into the woods. However, I do have a sleep spell in memory. I'll cast it on the front of the column. When they fall, that will be the signal for everyone to attack.”

With that everyone moves to their areas and starts to wait. Seeing that no one else is moving into the cave where the horses and mules are stored, Vardra just joins the other fighters around the corner of the trail.


Elsewhere, Wimzy carefully moves through the light forest at the base of the mountain guided by the torch light. Before long she finds where Eris is sleeping at. The war priestess is asleep near the base of the mountain.

“Wake up!” Wimzy whispers as she gives Eris a nudge on her shoulder. “We're under attack!”


By now everyone is in position. Kendell, Lucyus, Ren, Sorvani and Vardra are hugging the base of the mountain to the west of the path. Off deeper in the woods, spread out among the trees are Butternut, Flare, Kaylessa and Vernar.

Finally, the first of the goblins comes into view along the path. Ren casts his Sleep spell and before everyone's eyes 7 goblins fall to the ground, much to the shock of their companions! Seeing this, Lucyus holds off on casting his Light spell as the goblin he was going to target fell down.

Vernar hurtles his throwing axe and buries it in the shoulder of one of the still standing goblins. Kaylessa follows up with an arrow and that goblin wounded by Vernar drops. Flare and Butternut fire their weapons with devastating effect. Flare one shots one of the two remaining goblins with an arrow, while a crossbow bolt from Butternut removes the other goblin. Suddenly the dozen goblins are whittled down to just two!

Kendell and Vardra charge from their position into the unsuspecting goblins. Each easily takes down one goblin and all of a sudden, only the half-orcs remain! Lucyus follows and lands a battle axe strike at the male half-orc who was in front of the female half-orc. Sorvani wounds the female with a Magic Missile.

The female half-orc gets a spell off and a flash of color leaps from her hand. The wedge of colors washes over Lucyus, Kendell, Sorvani and Vardra. In response to this Lucyus and Vardra drop to the ground!

Seeing Ren, Sorvani and Vernar getting closer, the male half-orc turns and runs! The female, however, is slower and pays the price. Arrows and bolts whiz in from Butternut, Flare and Kaylessa and she goes down! The male half-orc reaches the edge of the path and drops off the edge, sliding away from the group and into darkness of the night.

While Ren and Vernar follow after the male half-orc, Sorvani pauses to check on Lucyus and Vardra. Both men are just unconscious.

As Vernar and Ren try to follow the fleeing half-orc, they spot something even more ominous off in the distance! Further down the winding trail even more figures are seen. Among them are several humans who carry torches to help light the way. There are a total of three torches carried by three humans. One of these humans is wearing plate mail armor. Other beings are close enough to be seen in the torch light. There are many more goblins and even an ogre among them! They are coming up the same path as the small force of goblins and will be here soon!

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

As noted in the post, Lucyus and Vardra are unconscious from the spell the enemy mage cast. No amount of prodding wakes them up just yet. There are also 7 goblins just sleeping.

The other, much larger group, is further away. Perhaps 15 to 20 minutes out. Maybe less if the if that male half-orc alerts them to your presence. The male half-orc has been lost from sight.

Now what?

[Lucyus]

Lucyus
The plan seems to be working as Kendell and Vardra move forward, Lucyus quickly follows as quick as he can. Only two of the goblins remain. Though they die by both his companions hands. Moving past his two companions, Lucyus let’s out a battle cry as he sees the male half orc before him. He brings his axe to bare and catches the half orc injuring it!

The female half-orc gets a spell off and a flash of color leaps from her hand. The wedge of colors washes over Lucyus, Kendell, Sorvani and Vardra. In response to this Lucyus and Vardra drop to the ground!

Lucyus sees lights wizz past him out the corner of his eyes then hears strange words being said and a horrible realization comes to him realizing that the half orc female is indeed a mage. He begins to shout out, “Mag…." Then bright colors are seen briefly then, he knows nothing but darkness and crumbles to the ground unmoving.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

The priestess is having a deeply engaging dream cycle when suddenly she is nudged awake. She bolts upright with a start, shaking her head as she processes where she is now. After a few seconds, she realizes Whimzy is next to her and was the reason she was awakened.

“Wake up!” Wimzy whispers as she gives Eris a nudge on her shoulder. “We're under attack!”

The words take a moment to register, but the obvious danger puts Erisciana into motion. She had arranged her shield and mace close by and grabs those quickly, then heads back in the direction of the group. "How many? What sort of foes?" she asks simply as they move through the light woods back to the fire.

Arriving back at the camp, the priestess sees the group, including Vardra and Lucyus down, with Sorvani checking on them. He indicates they are unconscious. She looks to the others here, seeing the goblins on the ground and the half-orc. "What happened? Is anyone injured?" In a moment she notices that Vernar and Ren are missing. "Where are the others?"

There is a half-orc here amongst the goblins, riddled with arrows. Erisci will check the body to see if there is anything of value.

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa

Vernar hurtles his throwing axe and buries it in the shoulder of one of the still standing goblins. Kaylessa follows up with an arrow and that goblin wounded by Vernar drops. Flare and Butternut fire their weapons with devastating effect. Flare one shots one of the two remaining goblins with an arrow, while a crossbow bolt from Butternut removes the other goblin. Suddenly the dozen goblins are whittled down to just two!

Taking Vernar’s queue, she knocks an arrow, aims and releases. Her aim is true as it strikes Vernar’s goblin, taking the goblin to the ground.

Seeing Ren, Sorvani and Vernar getting closer, the male half-orc turns and runs! The female, however, is slower and pays the price. Arrows and bolts whiz in from Butternut, Flare and Kaylessa and she goes down! The male half-orc reaches the edge of the path and drops off the edge, sliding away from the group and into darkness of the night.

Within moments many of the goblins are down and the two Half orcs are still putting up a fight. Taking up her bow she begins aiming at the female half orc as color leaps from her hands. For a moment, she looks away from her sight lines wondering what she just saw, then she sees Lucyus and Vardra fall. She takes a calming breath as Flare and Butternut let loose with their projectiles. Her fingers loosen as the bow string rolls off her finger tips. She watches as all their missiles strike home and as the Half Orc female dies, the male runs for his life.
Vernar and Ren are already chasing the Half orc as Kaylessa is in motion to the melee. She sees Sorvani check on the Paladin and Soldier, “Do they yet live?” she asks the mage as she looks down at the goblins. She faintly hears snoring and she stows her bow and draws her shortswords. Looking to Kendell. “See to those that still yet slumber.”

Arriving back at the camp, the priestess sees the group, including Vardra and Lucyus down, with Sorvani checking on them. He indicates they are unconscious. She looks to the others here, seeing the goblins on the ground and the half-orc. "What happened? Is anyone injured?" In a moment she notices that Vernar and Ren are missing. "Where are the others?"

"A patrol I would think." she says looking up to the warrior priestess as she is moving to the half orc female. "Lucyus and Vardra took the brunt of a spell. Colors leapt from her fingers and they collapsed where they stood," she says evenly as she looks in the direction that Ren and Vernar went. "One got away, though he looked injured by the way he moved," she adds as her eyes look to Erisci then to Kendell again. "You may need of your armor before the night is out," she takes a look at Sorvani and Butternut and Flare. "Our camp is no longer a safe haven," she says to the warrior priestess then to the others.

Kaylessa will look for things of value from the Half orc female, "This one may have a spellbook," she says as the priestess joins her.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

Having been informed that Lucyus and Vardra are just unconscious, the elf Kaylessa explains the attack.

"A patrol I would think." she says looking up to the warrior priestess as she is moving to the half orc female. "Lucyus and Vardra took the brunt of a spell. Colors leapt from her fingers and they collapsed where they stood," she says evenly as she looks in the direction that Ren and Vernar went. "One got away, though he looked injured by the way he moved," she adds as her eyes look to Erisci then to Kendell again.

"It makes sense. It is said that both goblins and orcs are mostly nocturnal and function well at night. It sounds like a Spray of Colors spell. Fast and generally effective," the priestess says. "So Vernar and Ren have chased after this defeated enemy then?"

"You may need of your armor before the night is out," she takes a look at Sorvani and Butternut and Flare. "Our camp is no longer a safe haven," she says to the warrior priestess then to the others.

"So you think this is an advance scouting party and more threats may remain?" Counting roughly a dozen goblins on the ground, she comments, "This group is large enough to be a patrol on its own or a vanguard to a larger force. If so that would spell trouble on a much larger scale. Hopefully Ren and Vernar will return soon."

Kaylessa will look for things of value from the Half orc female, "This one may have a spellbook," she says as the priestess joins her.
"Yes, a fine suggestion!"

If there is time, Erisciana will make a suggestion. "We should collect the dead goblins' weapons. Dispose of the junk." She will begin to grab spears that are savable and decent quality and toss the remainder or any clubs into the fire.

Is she able to tell that some of the goblins are only sleeping?

[Flare Nightstorm]

No more sleep:

"Sorry, Flare, but we need you. We got trouble coming up the path."

Flare awakens like a bolt of lightning, his sudden movement blows small, loose feathers into the air.

"Thank you, Vardra."

Flare is surprisingly alert.

He immediately releases M'Lady into the sky.

"Seek a safe distance, little one."

"Take the same target till it falls?” she asks the ranger.

Flare responds: "Aye! Yes!"

That Kaylessa is speaking to him so soon after "the incident" makes Flare feel some relief. Perhaps his female companion realizes he isn't a complete lech after all.

"Let's get to the cover of the beech trees just over there. I will show you the way if you cannot see."

In the forest:

Vernar hurtles his throwing axe and buries it in the shoulder of one of the still standing goblins. Kaylessa follows up with an arrow and that goblin wounded by Vernar drops. Flare and Butternut fire their weapons with devastating effect. Flare one-shots one of the two remaining goblins with an arrow, while a crossbow bolt from Butternut removes the other goblin.

Arrows and bolts whiz in from Butternut, Flare and Kaylessa and the female half-orc go down!

Before they sprint back to the campsite (now littered with sleeping goblins), Flare offers Kaylessa one of his arrows: "One of the finest arrows I've ever made. Please take it!"

Back at the campsite:

"We should collect the dead goblins' weapons. Dispose of the junk." She will begin to grab spears that are savable and decent quality and toss the remainder or any clubs into the fire.

She faintly hears snoring and she stows her bow and draws her shortswords. Looking to Kendell. “See to those that still yet slumber.”

Flare will assist in disarming the goblins, searching for valuables, and culling their numbers.

He hopes Kendell will kill all of the sleeping goblins.

But he'll draw his longsword and makes a show of it, staying alert for any surprises.

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Plans are formed quickly, demonstrating to Vernar everything he needs to know about who should be leader. Feeling invincible with Butternut beside him, Vernar moves into a lightly wooded area to await the patrol. He knows Ren is planning to cast a spell upon the group when they emerge, so he holds his axe.

Seeing many of the goblins fall asleep, Vernar aims for one still standing. His axe bites deep into the goblin, and an arrow finishes it. As he grabs a dagger, his other hand gripping his short sword firmly, the dwarf cannot help by smile as foe after foe drops quickly. One of the half orcs decides to forgo personal glory and turns to run. Vernar gives chase, noticing Ren is also after him. However, the half orc proves to be elusive, but something else catches Vernar's attention.

As Vernar and Ren try to follow the fleeing half-orc, they spot something even more ominous off in the distance! Further down the winding trail even more figures are seen. Among them are several humans who carry torches to help light the way. There are a total of three torches carried by three humans. One of these humans is wearing plate mail armor. Other beings are close enough to be seen in the torch light. There are many more goblins and even an ogre among them! They are coming up the same path as the small force of goblins and will be here soon!

Vernar looks for Ren. Hopefully he spots him and will move quietly over. "One o' us needs t' head back 'n warn the others o' that," he whispers, pointing in the direction of the approaching torch light. "I still have plenty o' daggers if I can be findin' that half orc before he warns 'em."

Assuming Ren agrees to head back, Vernar will move silently in the last direction he saw the half orc. He will try to detect any noise his foe might be making. Hopefully, the half orc is hiding somewhere, which will allow Vernar a few minutes to try to locate him. If he cannot, or if the half orc outruns the range of his throwing daggers, Vernar will head back to the others. Otherwise, the dwarf will try to sneak up on the half orc to backstab him or, failing that, kill him conventionally before he can alert the larger group.

[GM Mad]

Small Update:

The words take a moment to register, but the obvious danger puts Erisciana into motion. She had arranged her shield and mace close by and grabs those quickly, then heads back in the direction of the group. "How many? What sort of foes?" she asks simply as they move through the light woods back to the fire.

“Goblins,” Wimzy answers. “Maybe a dozen.”

Ren and Vernar are not really missing, although the way I worded it could be interpreted that way. What I was trying to get across was that both reached the edge of the road near to where the battle was fought. That's where the male half-orc slid down trying to get away and that was where they could see the large group approaching. Vernar than slide down the side of the hill following after the half-orc, while Ren stayed topside.

Ren quickly fills the new arrivals in on what happened while keeping an eye on Vernar. “The male got away by sliding down the side of the hill. Vernar is going after him so he can't alert that larger force that we are here!”

Those who do look down the hillside can see the others approaching and the three lit torches stand out in the night. Those who possess infravision can make out Vernar moving as quiet as he can down the side of the hill. The slop is somewhat steep in places, but will even out as he nears the bottom. The male half-orc seems to be going towards where the stream is flowing down the hill, but so far is not in sight.

It's too dark for those without infravision to really make out fine details. Such as which goblins are sleeping or to search the female half-orc. To those who have infravision, telling the goblins apart is easy. They are the ones who are not, yet, bloodied.

The goblins wore leather armor with a strange symbol on their chest. It looks like a collection of red arrows pointing outwards. They also carried spears and the clubs. The weapons are easy enough to pick up on the ground. A handful of coins are found on each goblin.

Kaylessa searches the female half-orc and notes that the woman is quite hideous in appearance! A coin purse is found on her, along with what is guessed to be a spellbook. She carried a short sword, a backpack with some typical adventuring gear and clothes, and thieves tools.

Now what?

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa
With Flare-

"Let's get to the cover of the beech trees just over there. I will show you the way if you cannot see."

A small smirk etches the corner of her mouth, “Thank you for your concern, though it is misplaced. I can see quite well in this light.”
Flare offers her an arrow. Perhaps it is a piece offering that the human thinks will ease her thoughts towards him. "Thank you."she says as she takes the arrow and drops it in her quiver.

"It makes sense. It is said that both goblins and orcs are mostly nocturnal and function well at night. It sounds like a Spray of Colors spell. Fast and generally effective," the priestess says. "So Vernar and Ren have chased after this defeated enemy then?"

“But are Half orcs generally accepted by goblins?” she asks the priestess. “I know they follow the strongest and ugliest among them..” she says to the warrior priest then looks past her as Flare seems to be playing with his sword in dramatic fashion. She rests the urge to tell him he has to stick them with the pointy end. “Vernar and Ren gave chase, It looked like Lucyus wounded it before he fell.”

"So you think this is an advance scouting party and more threats may remain?" Counting roughly a dozen goblins on the ground, she comments, "This group is large enough to be a patrol on its own or a vanguard to a larger force. If so that would spell trouble on a much larger scale. Hopefully Ren and Vernar will return soon."

“Who is to say?” Taking a deep breath, “We are in enemy lands where we just attacked a nest of goblins. During the night they come against us and there are Half orcs among them, One of which escapes. Where did he run to? If he does survive, he will go back to where he came from and inform them of our encounter.” She says easily states. “I do not think we should be here if that happens.” She says looking to the human priestess then to the others.

Kaylessa begins looking through the half orcs things.She can’t help but marvel at the absolute uglieness of the female and the smell!! Thieves tools, a coin purse, a shortsword and a book! Stowing the items away in a pouch. She looks up seeing that the humans are having trouble telling which goblins are alive and which are dead.
Ren quickly fills the new arrivals in on what happened while keeping an eye on Vernar. “The Half orc got away by sliding down the side of the hill. Vernar is going after him so he can't alert that larger force that we are here!”
Letting out an elfish curse, Kaylessa rises from the corpse and draws her shortswords, she will move through the goblins and giving them a quick death. As she moves to do so she will instruct the humans and those who cannot see as well which goblins are still alive that need to be dispatched.

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

"Thank you, Vardra."

Vardra nods and moves off to assist with preparations for the battle to come.

“Not as far as I know,” Sorvani answers, as equally confused by the dwarfs actions.

"Hm. Okay." Vardra starts to prepared for his shift, hoping the dwarf will explain when he returns - which he does.

“I guess that makes sense,” Sorvani adds. “They like the dark, so if they were going to come after us it would be at night. Guess that means the Stone Dwarf missed a few of the runts.”

Vardra nods in agreement. In truth, he's not surprised that some of the goblins would have escaped the animated statue; fast and strong as it was, it couldn't be everywhere at once.

Ren has some opinions to offer. “I have no ranged attacks,” the gnome speaks up, “therefore I have no reason to go off into the woods. However, I do have a sleep spell in memory. I'll cast it on the front of the column. When they fall, that will be the signal for everyone to attack.”

"Sounds like a plan to me," Vardra says with a curt nod. He will join the other warriors near the wall; this had all happened so quickly, he didn't really have time to grab his bow and arrows.

With everyone in position, they wait. Minutes tick by as they wait for the goblins to round the corner of the trail. Out here, exposed, it is clear that they will be spotted by the goblins as soon as they turn the corner, thus lessening the surprise.

And turn the corner they do. Ren casts his spell almost immediately, and more than half of the goblins go down! Vardra hadn't expected it to be so effective. Not wanting to waste what surprise they have left, he charges into melee. A cross-body slash takes out one of the goblins as others go down to missile fire and Lucyus' sword.

With only the two half-orcs left, Vardra veers toward the female as Lucyus attacks the male. Spotting the threat, she spins, chants some gibberish, and a fan of colored light bursts forth from her hand. The light steals awareness from his mind, causing Vardra to slump to the ground unconscious.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Noting that Vernar is not far away from her, Butternut gives him a confident nod. She is enjoying watching the goblins waltz into their trap, and it shows in the eagerness gleaming in her eyes.

The goblins and their half-orc allies stroll closer and closer, seemingly unaware of their impending doom. She can just make out the group of fighters pressed against the wall. As the goblins round the corner, she sees Ren casting a spell, and suddenly 7 of the goblins collapse to the ground.

"Clever boy," Butternut murmurs to herself as she looses her first bolt at the nearest goblin. The shaft enters through the filthy creature's cheek and deep into its head, knocking it off its feet. No doubt it is dead before it hits the ground.

Within moments, all of the goblins are down. A flare of colored light from the female half-orc causes both Lucyus and Vardra to collapse, and marking her as a spell-caster. Butternut shifts her aim to the newly-identified mage and punctures her with a another bolt. Others apparently had the same idea, and she goes down quickly looking vaguely like a pincushion.

His courage failing, the wounded male half-orc takes off running. He goes past not far from Butternut, and she whirls around for another shot. Her thick fingers slip on the slick wood of the shaft, causing the quarrel to not settle into the notch properly and drawing Halfling curses from her frustration.

Seeing Vernar and Ren take off after the fleeing half-orc, Butternut joins in the chase. Vernar pauses at the edge of the road upon seeing a larger party of goblins and others a ways off, which allows the halfling ranger to catch up. Following his gaze, she spots the goblins, humans, and ogre, and swears yet again.

Vernar looks for Ren. Hopefully he spots him and will move quietly over. "One o' us needs t' head back 'n warn the others o' that," he whispers, pointing in the direction of the approaching torch light. "I still have plenty o' daggers if I can be findin' that half orc before he warns 'em."

"Good idea, Vernar," Butternut says in agreement as she finally gets the bolt loaded properly. "I'm coming with you; if we can get within range, I should be able to pick off that coward before he can cause any more trouble. Can't let him get away."

Vernar makes his way down the embankment as quietly as he can, and Butternut does likewise. She angles a bit away from him so that they have different viewing angles around obstacles and don't have too much noise coming from one place, but still keeps him in sight. As she goes, Butternut watches for any sign of the half-orc's passing and keeps her crossbow ready in case she spots him.

______________________________________________________________________
Why the change? Because 'reasons'... Someone else will have to take care of murdering the sleeping goblins.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

The priestess sees Flare start to stab fallen goblins and it dawns on her that they were affected by a Sleep magick spell. Soon Kaylessa joins in and she imagines Butternut would be pleased by her teammates' actions.

Kaylessa explains that the three missing members went after the wounded half-orc. She also asks about half-Orcs and goblins. “If the strongest are leaders, it’s possible the half-Orcs chose the goblins rather than the other way around.” The elf also is concerned that the escaped enemy may alert a larger force. Erisciana recalls for a moment the dream from which she was woken. She remembers running. Running. And being chased by snakes. Many-headed snakes. She shakes her head to clear the image but now it occurs to her that it may be a foreboding message from her goddess.

Ren appears and explains the situation. A large group is coming. More than two dozen more goblins and human leaders plus an ogre! Suddenly a thought fills her mind and she issues out a single word that sounds half like a hiss: “Hextor!” That must be the reason for her dream. She looks around at the others.

“Everyone, get on your armor and collect up your gear!” She ushers everyone on with wide arms gestures. “We’re going to have to retreat up the tunnel to the outpost. Be ready to move as soon as possible!” Asking for the torch Wimzy has, she will run back the short distance to her sleeping spot, collecting up her armor pieces and cloak and stuffing them quickly into her backpack. She slept in her breastplate and plaited skirt, and doesn’t yet take the time to put on the other armor pieces. She rushes back to the group.

“That group is potentially too large for us even if we had all of our spell abilities available and we do not.” If people finish putting on armor before Lucyus and Vardra are conscious, she will direct stronger members to drag the two unconscious fighters close to the cave and collect their belongings.

Erisci will outline her plan. “We can use the dwarves’ trap to our advantage but we need to move quickly. We cannot ride away because the enemy blocks the trail and we have too many to hide. The trap could catch the enemy and do much of our work for us. We need to go in pairs, cannot risk more tripping the trap. We’ll pair up one who can see in the dark and one who cannot. We can set oil in the cave entrance and the last person hide, use the Greek Fire to blow up in the camp fire, set the oil alight and follow last. We cannot risk a straight up fight,”

(OOC: Erisciana asked if Ren and Vernar and Butternut are missing because they were not here and she was not nearby when they left.)

(OOC: Edited due to Butternut's edit, since she was not there when Erisci arrived. Changes in this color.)

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

(OOC: I apparently was posting at the same time as Butternut.)

Kaylessa shows that the goblins carry a symbol and it confirms that they are working for Hextor the Vile.

Queen of Heaven forbid anyone would want to stay and try to fight an overwhelming force, the priestess will still give her reasons for her plan should anyone wonder. “My inclination would be to ambush them as well, but our spellcasters are not at full strength. And there are more than two dozen goblins. Plus an ogre and at least one cleric of Hextor, most likely. Two of our frontline fighters were felled in one spell. Fighting, even with an ambush, is very possibly suicide. There also is no guarantee that Vernar and Butternut will stop the running half-Orc from alerting the larger force.” She looks to the others to see what they say.

(OOC: Again, due to Butternut's change of tactics, edited above to work around the change.)

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa

Ren appears and explains the situation. A large group is coming. More than two dozen more goblins and human leaders plus an ogre! Suddenly a thought fills her mind and she issues out a single word that sounds half like a hiss: “Hextor!” That must be the reason for her dream. She looks around at the others.

“A former lover of yours?” the elf asks the warrior priestess as she sees the red arrows facing outward on the symbol. “Who is it?”she asks not familiar with human symbols.

Erisci will outline her plan. “We can use the dwarves’ trap to our advantage but we need to move quickly. We cannot ride away because the enemy blocks the trail and we have too many to hide. The trap could catch the enemy and do much of our work for us. We need to go in pairs, cannot risk more tripping the trap. We’ll pair up one who can see in the dark and one who cannot. We can set oil in the cave entrance and the last person hide, use the Greek Fire to blow up in the camp fire, set the oil alight and follow last. We cannot risk a straight up fight,”

“With two of our number unmovable. Limited spells, not enough time to move the bodies, arm ourselves efficiently and wake our friends. I’d have to agree with Eris. It might be time to head for the tunnels and douse the fire…” she says evenly. “I am with you Eris. I can help move Lucyus but Vardra is well beyond my strength.”
(Edited due to lack of Butternut)

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

As an overwhelming force of goblins and a ogre, led by what is likely at least one priest of Hextor, approaches, Erisci offers a suggestion on how to deal with it. A direct combat is certainly not a wise choice and they have no guarantee that they can ambush the group. Even if they could, with depleted magickal resources and two members possibly unavailable, they would be fighting a losing battle.

As the priestess watches the others collect their gear and array themselves in armor, the elf Kaylessa spouts an unusual question.

“A former lover of yours?” the elf asks the warrior priestess as she sees the red arrows facing outward on the symbol. “Who is it?”she asks not familiar with human symbols.

Erisciana freezes and turns her head slowly to look directly at the elf. There is a slight grimace on her face that she tries to stifle and her brow furrows as she tries to hold back feelings at the insult. "Take care of your words, my friend. In my lands, such a statement would require 'vrazhda' between us." Her countenance softens somewhat as she realizes that the elf does not know of what she speaks. "That symbol is indeed the symbol of Hextor the Vile. He is the Herald of Hell and the Champion of Evil. He is an ally of Druaga and Nergul. To say that one is the lover of any of these repugnant deities is the most offensive insult one could utter."

The priestess takes her holy symbol in her hand and bows for a quick moment with an unspoken supplication to Ishtar. She then turns her attention back to the task at hand.

[Sorvani]

Sorvani:

Heart pounding, Sorvani follows the other warriors as we hide along the mountains side where the trail comes in. Ren takes out the lead goblins with a Sleep spell, making what happens next ever so easy. The other goblins are gone before Sorvani can even see them. The female half-orc is seen and Sorvani sends a Magic Missile her way doing on minor damage.

She attacks back with some magic spell that fires of an array of colors! It covers everyone here and Lucyus and Vardra fall to the ground! Sorvani is shocked to have survived the attack that he actually pats himself to make sure he is still alive. The female dies to a barrage of arrows and the other one tries to flee. Since he can't see particularly well, Sorvani stays here. He does bend down to see of Vardra and Lucyus are alive.

“They are just unconscious,” Sorvani announces in relief. “That spell just knocked them out.”

Just like that the fighting is over and most of the others come over to us.

Kaylessa will look for things of value from the Half orc female, "This one may have a spellbook," she says as the priestess joins her.

“That would be nice,” Sorvani notes. At least with the torch it is a bit easier to see.

"It makes sense. It is said that both goblins and orcs are mostly nocturnal and function well at night. It sounds like a Spray of Colors spell. Fast and generally effective," the priestess says. "So Vernar and Ren have chased after this defeated enemy then?"

“Yes, they are at the advantage,” Sorvani agrees.

Ren appears and explains the situation. A large group is coming. More than two dozen more goblins and human leaders plus an ogre! Suddenly a thought fills her mind and she issues out a single word that sounds half like a hiss: “Hextor!” That must be the reason for her dream. She looks around at the others.

“The God of War,” Sorvani adds. “They lead the enemy forces, or so I have heard others say.”

From there Erisciana goes on to talk about the danger that we now face. Looking down the trail, the three torches can be seen. Given how much we cannot see, this has to be a much larger group!

“Everyone, get on your armor and collect up your gear!” She ushers everyone on with wide arms gestures. “We’re going to have to retreat up the tunnel to the outpost. Be ready to move as soon as possible!” Asking for the torch Wimzy has, she will run back the short distance to her sleeping spot, collecting up her armor pieces and cloak and stuffing them quickly into her backpack. She slept in her breastplate and plaited skirt, and doesn’t yet take the time to put on the other armor pieces. She rushes back to the group.

“That group is potentially too large for us even if we had all of our spell abilities available and we do not.” If people finish putting on armor before Lucyus and Vardra are conscious, she will direct stronger members to drag the two unconscious fighters close to the cave and collect their belongings.

Erisci will outline her plan. “We can use the dwarves’ trap to our advantage but we need to move quickly. We cannot ride away because the enemy blocks the trail and we have too many to hide. The trap could catch the enemy and do much of our work for us. We need to go in pairs, cannot risk more tripping the trap. We’ll pair up one who can see in the dark and one who cannot. We can set oil in the cave entrance and the last person hide, use the Greek Fire to blow up in the camp fire, set the oil alight and follow last. We cannot risk a straight up fight.”

“That trap did seem like it was made to handle a large attacking force like this,” Sorvani says in regards to the priestess plan. “I wholly approve of using it to destroy our enemies! Even if they do survive all the way down, between the undead and the Stone Dwarf that have little chance to survive. I like it!”

Sorvani will rush back and grab his gear and as many torches as he can carry. He will light one for now so that he can see, saving the others for later.

“So did that half-orc have a spell book?”

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa

Erisciana freezes and turns her head slowly to look directly at the elf. There is a slight grimace on her face that she tries to stifle and her brow furrows as she tries to hold back feelings at the insult. "Take care of your words, my friend. In my lands, such a statement would require 'vrazhda' between us." Her countenance softens somewhat as she realizes that the elf does not know of what she speaks. "That symbol is indeed the symbol of Hextor the Vile. He is the Herald of Hell and the Champion of Evil. He is an ally of Druaga and Nergul. To say that one is the lover of any of these repugnant deities is the most offensive insult one could utter."

Kaylessa becomes interested in the pommel of her shortswords as the human priestess barely contains her rage and disappointment of what she had said. Apparently it was not one that she should have said. “Good to know. I apologize for any insult it was not my intent.” She says apologetically, “I have not heard of this Herald of Hell.”
With Sorvani-

“They are just unconscious,” Sorvani announces in relief. “That spell just knocked them out.”

“That is a relief. The only question is when will they awake or will we have to carry them to the fire.”

“The God of War,” Sorvani adds. “They lead the enemy forces, or so I have heard others say.”

“This war god, is there any that stand against him?”she asks curiously.

“That trap did seem like it was made to handle a large attacking force like this,” Sorvani says in regards to the priestess plan. “I wholly approve of using it to destroy our enemies! Even if they do survive all the way down, between the undead and the Stone Dwarf that have little chance to survive. I like it!”

“Perhaps we can have our strongest go across with a rope, so that they have something to grab if the trap is inadvertently sprung.”
The mage comes back with a torch lit and asks,

“So did that half-orc have a spell book?”

“I believe so. Though I did not try to read it as of yet.”Taking out the book she holds out so the mage can see it. “If you wish to hold it, feel free and we can discover it’s secrets together?”

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

Ren appears and explains the situation. A large group is coming. More than two dozen more goblins and human leaders plus an ogre! Suddenly a thought fills her mind and she issues out a single word that sounds half like a hiss: “Hextor!” That must be the reason for her dream. She looks around at the others.

“The God of War,” Sorvani adds. “They lead the enemy forces, or so I have heard others say.”

The priestess gives a dismissing huff hearing Hextor called the god of war. "We are taught he is a god only of conflict and strife and destruction. 'The strong rule the weak and power is the only reward worth having'. Hextor's rise in the eastern lands will likely prove calamitous for any who come into contact with them."


Kaylessa becomes interested in the pommel of her shortswords as the human priestess barely contains her rage and disappointment of what she had said. Apparently it was not one that she should have said. “Good to know. I apologize for any insult it was not my intent.” She says apologetically, “I have not heard of this Herald of Hell.”

The priestess' expression softens once more, hearing the words of her comrade. "Your apology is heartfeltly accepted. Think no more of it."


“That trap did seem like it was made to handle a large attacking force like this,” Sorvani says in regards to the priestess' plan. “I wholly approve of using it to destroy our enemies! Even if they do survive all the way down, between the undead and the Stone Dwarf that have little chance to survive. I like it!”

Erisci will smile at the mage. "Did I not tell you that encountering the trap again would prove to be a blessing? The goddess will surely see us through this trial."

“Perhaps we can have our strongest go across with a rope, so that they have something to grab if the trap is inadvertently sprung.”

"If we understand the trap as Ren explained, then simply by having each group go up the straight lengths together then it will not trigger. Each group will need to wait for the previous one to reach the corner before progressing forward." Erisciana takes a look at their assembled number. "We have nine here and only three of us have the ability to see in darkness, if I remember correctly. That means we will have to go in groups of three. The torches may not last long enough to reach the top, even if we move at a faster pace than before. So the three will have to maintain contact."

"Ren and Wimzy will go first." The priestess looks at the two of their number still unconscious. "Sorvani, you go with them. Kaylessa, Kendall and myself will be the last three. Let us prepare the cave entrance for our fiery feint. We don't want to deter them completely from coming for us, but it will look to them like we are trying to do that very thing. Ren we will need another pot of your fire and we also need a vial or two of oil and a torch."

Hopefully Lucyus and Vardra will be regaining awareness soon.

[Sorvani]

Sorvani:

“That is a relief. The only question is when will they awake or will we have to carry them to the fire.”

“I think moving them right now is a good idea,” Sorvani says. “Just so no one mistakes them for a sleeping goblin.”

The priestess gives a dismissing huff hearing Hextor called the god of war. "We are taught he is a god only of conflict and strife and destruction. 'The strong rule the weak and power is the only reward worth having'. Hextor's rise in the eastern lands will likely prove calamitous for any who come into contact with them."

“You'll get no argument from me, Priestess,” Sorvani agrees. “Bunch of bullies if you ask me.”

“This war god, is there any that stand against him?”she asks curiously.

“He does,” Sorvani answers pointing at Lucyus. “Heironeous is his arch-enemy.”

Erisci will smile at the mage. "Did I not tell you that encountering the trap again would prove to be a blessing? The goddess will surely see us through this trial."

“Yeah,'” Sorvani says with a laugh. “I guess you did. Apparently I have little faith.”

"If we understand the trap as Ren explained, then simply by having each group go up the straight lengths together then it will not trigger. Each group will need to wait for the previous one to reach the corner before progressing forward." Erisciana takes a look at their assembled number. "We have nine here and only three of us have the ability to see in darkness, if I remember correctly. That means we will have to go in groups of three. The torches may not last long enough to reach the top, even if we move at a faster pace than before. So the three will have to maintain contact."

“That was my understanding as well,” Sorvani chimes in. “It was our being spread out with all the heaviest ones in the back that triggered the trap. If we stay together, we should be fine.”

"Ren and Wimzy will go first." The priestess looks at the two of their number still unconscious. "Sorvani, you go with them. Kaylessa, Kendall and myself will be the last three. Let us prepare the cave entrance for our fiery feint. We don't want to deter them completely from coming for us, but it will look to them like we are trying to do that very thing. Ren we will need another pot of your fire and we also need a vial or two of oil and a torch."

“The torches are back by the fire,” Sorvani notes. “Each group will need 3 of them, just to be safe.”

“I believe so. Though I did not try to read it as of yet.”Taking out the book she holds out so the mage can see it. “If you wish to hold it, feel free and we can discover it’s secrets together?”

“Yeah I'll hold on to it, if you don't mind,” Sorvani says as we accepts the book. “We'll give it a look over later on.”

“So, if I understand the plan, me, Ren and Wimzy are to go up the tunnel right now?” Sorvani asks. “There's no reason for us to bunch up while fleeing from these enemy forces.” And, Sorvani guesses, this group is probably the slowest ones here.

First Sorvani will drag Lucyus back to the camp fire, unless anyone objects. Than he'll grab 3 torches, lighting one of them and then go up the ramp with Ren and Wimzy.

“I see no reason not to pick up the pace this time,” Sorvani notes. “There might be an army of goblins at our heels at any moment!”

[Kendell]

Kendell:

Kendell and Vardra charge from their position into the unsuspecting goblins. Each easily takes down one goblin and all of a sudden, only the half-orcs remain! Lucyus follows and lands a battle axe strike at the male half-orc who was in front of the female half-orc. Sorvani wounds the female with a Magic Missile.

Sword and shield in hands, Kendell rushes around the corner once the gnome casts his spell. In response half the goblins fall down!

“Nice work!” Kendell compliments. He then rushes forward and takes out one of the few goblins left with little effort.

The female half-orc gets a spell off and a flash of color leaps from her hand. The wedge of colors washes over Lucyus, Kendell, Sorvani and Vardra. In response to this Lucyus and Vardra drop to the ground!

Kendell raises his shield up, thinking that it would protect him from whatever evil spell that woman is casting!

“Wow, it worked!” Kendell calls out as the spell does not seem to harm him. However both the grim soldier and the holy warrior are down! “That little thing did that?!”

The fighting seems over as quickly as it started, but its hard to tell as its dark out.

“They are just unconscious,” Sorvani announces in relief. “That spell just knocked them out.”

“She took out two warriors with just one spell?” Kendell tries to wrap is mind around that concept.

“Everyone, get on your armor and collect up your gear!” She ushers everyone on with wide arms gestures. “We’re going to have to retreat up the tunnel to the outpost. Be ready to move as soon as possible!”

“Uhm, okay.” Kendell rushes back to his sleeping place by the campfire and works to put his armor on. After that, he'll pick up his gear and a couple of torches.

Returning to the others he says, “What's next?”

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa

Kaylessa hears Eris speak of her heartfelt forgiveness. A slight smiles begins to etch across her lips as she says, “Excellent!” she says as she sheathes her sword.

“He does,” Sorvani answers pointing at Lucyus. “Heironeous is his arch-enemy.”
Kaylessa looks to Sorvani in a confused look but then he speaks of the Paladin's deity. A look of understanding comes tot he elf, "So if we do encounter these clerics they will most likely seek Lucyus and Eris out first?"
A plan comes about as to go back up the hallway to the trap, hopefully the trap remains dormant. Eris speaks quickly then Sorvani

"Ren and Wimzy will go first." The priestess looks at the two of their number still unconscious. "Sorvani, you go with them. Kaylessa, Kendall and myself will be the last three. Let us prepare the cave entrance for our fiery feint. We don't want to deter them completely from coming for us, but it will look to them like we are trying to do that very thing. Ren we will need another pot of your fire and we also need a vial or two of oil and a torch."
“The torches are back by the fire,” Sorvani notes. “Each group will need 3 of them, just to be safe.”

“Let us move the others into the hallway above where the oil you speak. We cannot leave them to our enemy.” The elf says evenly.

“Yeah I'll hold on to it, if you don't mind,” Sorvani says as we accepts the book. “We'll give it a look over later on.”

Kaylessa relinquishes the book as the mage promises to look at it later on. The thought of the human betraying them comes to mind but she quickly dismisses it, if he did she would repay his kindness in turn.
Seeing the mage grab Lucyus and drag him, Kaylessa makes sure to grab their weapons and then grabs Vardra’s legs. She will begin draggin him back to the fire.

Returning to the others he says, “What's next?”

“Give me a hand with him. We need to put them both beyond the oil we are setting.”

[Lucyus]

Lucyus-
( Please disregard if not allowed. Having fun with the situation. As he is unconscious I think he might be dreaming.)
Through the darkness several images run through Lucyus’s mind. A rainbow emerges from the darkness as a unicorn prances about the base. Several creatures run after it, a bearded child, a potbellied boy and a red headed girl with a green plaid dress. Suddenly the scene vanishes as the faces of Kaylessa and Erisciana at the stream. Large axes soon cross before the women as the vision changes to Butternut and Wimzy skipping through a meadow where wild flowers run rampant. The ranger Flare is riding a great elk backward, trying vainly to drink from a flask.

The façade changes as the half orc male sneers in his face. Knocking the paladin to the ground he utters something in his languages as a horse is brought forward and the paladins legs and arms are bound. He is being pulled across the earth as he feels the earth jar and jerk beneath him, his armor and flesh being torn as it goes.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

“That is a relief. The only question is when will they awake or will we have to carry them to the fire.”

“I think moving them right now is a good idea,” Sorvani says. “Just so no one mistakes them for a sleeping goblin.”

“Let us move the others into the hallway above where the oil you speak. We cannot leave them to our enemy,” the elf says evenly.

The priestess agrees. "I have no intention of leaving them behind. Hopefully they will remain unconscious for only a few minutes more. But from the sounds of it, we don't have a lot of time. If we can move them and their gear to the cave entrance then we may be able to save some needed time for them to ready themselves."

The priestess gives a dismissing huff hearing Hextor called the god of war. "We are taught he is a god only of conflict and strife and destruction. 'The strong rule the weak and power is the only reward worth having'. Hextor's rise in the eastern lands will likely prove calamitous for any who come into contact with them."

“You'll get no argument from me, Priestess,” Sorvani agrees. “Bunch of bullies if you ask me.” Erisciana nods her agreement. She thinks for a moment that she didn't trust this man on first meeting, but it seems his thoughts and ideas are very in line with her own. It wouldn't be the first time first impressions were misleading.

“He does,” Sorvani answers pointing at Lucyus. “Heironeous is his arch-enemy.”

Kaylessa looks to Sorvani in a confused look but then he speaks of the Paladin's deity. A look of understanding comes to the elf, "So if we do encounter these clerics they will most likely seek Lucyus and Eris out first?

"They may or may not recognize me for what I am," the priestess says. "They may not even care. But if my readings are correct, then they are the sworn enemy of the followers which include our own paladin."

Erisci will smile at the mage. "Did I not tell you that encountering the trap again would prove to be a blessing? The goddess will surely see us through this trial."

“Yeah,'” Sorvani says with a laugh. “I guess you did. Apparently I have little faith.”

Erisciana smiles in return. "Maybe one day there will be reason for that limitation to be altered."

“Everyone, get on your armor and collect up your gear!” She ushers everyone on with wide arms gestures. “We’re going to have to retreat up the tunnel to the outpost. Be ready to move as soon as possible!”

“Uhm, okay.” Kendell rushes back to his sleeping place by the campfire and works to put his armor on. After that, he'll pick up his gear and a couple of torches.

Returning to the others he says, “What's next?”

"We collect up the gear of our unconscious pair and move it and them into the cave entrance. We will then prepare a stream of oil across the entrance. Kaylessa, you and I will be hidden in the cave. Kaylessa where she can toss the Greek fire into our campfire and we light the oil as well. I will cast a Protection from Evil spell on Kaylessa as soon as we hear them getting close but before we see them. As soon as the explosions happen, we run!" She adds after a moment. "And we stay in our groups of three. Remember that, as it is key to our survival," she adds looking to everyone in the group.

“So, if I understand the plan, me, Ren and Wimzy are to go up the tunnel right now?” Sorvani asks. “There's no reason for us to bunch up while fleeing from these enemy forces.” And, Sorvani guesses, this group is probably the slowest ones here.

First Sorvani will drag Lucyus back to the camp fire, unless anyone objects. Than he'll grab 3 torches, lighting one of them and then go up the ramp with Ren and Wimzy.

“I see no reason not to pick up the pace this time,” Sorvani notes. “There might be an army of goblins at our heels at any moment

"Correct. Now that we have prepared and have only to wait for Lucyus and Vardra to awaken, there is no reason to tarry. Your first group needs to get far enough ahead so that we do not bunch up again. And the last three of us will hopefully have goblins on our heels."

The priestess will turn to the horses and mules here. She will hold her hands out wide and bow her head. "Mighty Ishtar, I implore you to entreat on our behalf to Anunnaki, the god of fate, that we shall be successful in our plans and to Aruru, the goddess of nature, that these noble animals be spared once more with the enemy approaching."

"Flare, you'll be leading Lucyus and Vardra up the ramp. It would be good to have a few torches and one lit for them to carry now." When the two awaken she will explain the plan to them and have Kendall help them get their gear loaded up. She ushers them on, after answering the expected questions which are to come. (OOC: Erisci will specifically leave out the part that they suspect Hextorites to be involved as she does not wish to rile up the paladin and jeopardize the plan. Sorry Lucyus.) She will cast a Shield spell on herself and be ready to cast Protection from Evil on Kaylessa. Then all that remains is to wait for the enemy to approach.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed