Operation: Graystone #13

[GM Mad]

Operation: Graystone #13

April 13th, CR 569

Eagle's Nest Base Camp:

Having escaped from the goblin infested dwarven lair, the combined squads have made their way back to the base of Eagle's Nest. There they decide to camp for the night before making the climb up to the observation post in the morning. However, those plans were ruined when a dozen goblins wearing leather armor dedicated to Hextor arrived with two half-orcs in the middle of the night! The invaders were not expecting trouble and were easily taken out by the squads attacks. A male half-orc fled with Vernar and Butternut in pursuit.

“Is anyone hurt?” Wimzy asks when she arrives with Erisciana.

The fallen goblins are quickly searched for valuables by Ren and Flare and then slain. Each has a small amount of coins in pouches on them. The spears they carried are taken, but the clubs are rounded up and pitched into the fire.

The female half-orc managed to get a Color Spray spell off before being taken out by arrows and bolts. The spell knocked Lucyus and Vardra out and no one has been able to wake them yet.

Those who can see in the dark try to keep up with Butternut and Vernar as they stalk the fleeing half-orc. Both are quickly lost from sight. The tell-tale sign of a crossbow being fired is heard off in the distance, along with the sounds of rocks shifting and moving.

Even more ominous, it seems that this group of goblins was just an advanced scouting unit for a much larger group can be seen approaching from down the trail below. Three torches being carried by humans lite up the night. More goblins are seen among them, along with an ogre! Even worse, the torch wielders are fairly spread apart, suggesting that this approaching body is much larger that can be currently seen.

Erisciana suggests using the trap inside Eagle's Nest to deal with this much larger force. If the trap works as Ren believes it does, then it was made specifically for this case. Seeming outnumber by several factors and low on spells and sleep, most agree with this idea. Ren, Wimzy and Sorvani are to be the first group to start the climb up to the Eagle's Nest. Sorvani grabs three torches, lighting one as they start up the ramp. Ren gives Erisciana his last vial of Alchemist's Fire.

“I think I'll be comin' along with ye,” Sann Silverbeard calls out as he joins the first wave of climbers. “I be wantin' to see this Eagle's Nest anyway an' sure don't wanna be here when that horde arrives!”

[GM Mad]

Half-Orc Hunt:

Vernar and Butternut slide down the hill as quickly as they can, but cannot help to move rocks and stones as they go. The terrain starts to level out and there are a few trees here and there. Both come to a stop and try to hear their target moving. The pair split up and take different sides of this area. They slowly move along until Butternut can see a dark shape up ahead! She fires her crossbow and the bolt sails towards the half-orc! His grunt indicates that she hit the target!

In response, the half-orc makes a break for it! He leaves his cover and starts to run to the west, towards where the stream crosses through this area. Vernar flings one of his daggers as the target but cannot tell if he hit the mark or not.

Butternut and Vernar start to run after the fleeing half-orc. Their target reaches the stream, starts to cross it and then is lost from sight. The pair reach the stream a few moments later, but cannot see the half-orc. The stream does not seem too deep and there are stones to hop across on. Eyeing up a path, the pair start to jump on the stones to cross the stream. Suddenly, their feet slip on the mossy stones and they plunge into the drink. The next thing either one knows, they are barreling down the stream and over an edge. Both have the sensation of free falling!


Eagle Nest Base Camp:

After about four or five minutes Lucyus and Vardra start to come around, no worse for wear from the spell they were hit with. Buy this time the first group has already started up the ramp to the Eagle's Nest up above.

There has been no sign of Butternut or Vernar thus far. All fell quiet as it seemed that they had moved far away from the group.


Half-orc Hunt:

After a few seconds of free falling, Vernar and Butternut plunge into a pool at the bottom of the small water fall. The pond is deep enough for the water to absorb their impact without causing any great injury. Both surface, sputter to take in air and make for a nearby shore. Wearily, they reach the shore and take a look around. At least this time it was fresh, clean water!

Looking back at the pool that they just departed, they can see a body floating motionlessly in it. It looks very much like the half-orc they were trailing. From the looks of it, this pool is much further down the hill from where they were at. Best guess would put them behind the force approaching Eagle's Nest!

The sound of horses approaching can be heard and the pair look in that direction. Vernar and Butternut can see three riders approaching. At first glance the trio seem to be a pair of humans and a dwarf. The male human wears chain mail armor and has a crossbow pointed in your direction! The human female is carrying a torch and the male dwarf is also covering you with a crossbow.

“I'm Sergeant Crandell of Talon Squad!” The human male calls out as he aims his crossbow. “Identify yourselves!”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The first time the group went up the ramp towards the Eagle's Nest, they did so at what is called 'exploration speed'. This is a slower pace as you are unsure of your surroundings and keeping an eye out for traps, obstacles and trip hazards. Given that you've already been this way before, you can go at a faster and comfortable clip. It should take about twenty minutes to make the climb as you do not have to be so careful.

And say hello to our new players!

Laurel, don't forget to list what spells you have prayed for in the spell list thread at the top of this forum.

Now what?

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Sliding down the side of a hill eliminates most of Vernar's attempt to be stealthy. Butternut moves away from him and together they search for the elusive half-orc. Butternut catches a glimpse of him first and fires her crossbow, which seems to have been on target.

In response, the half-orc makes a break for it! He leaves his cover and starts to run to the west, towards where the stream crosses through this area. Vernar flings one of his daggers as the target but cannot tell if he hit the mark or not.

Vernar lets out a grunt as he takes off as quickly as his frame allows. Thankfully, the half-orc doesn't seem interested in calling out for help. Vernar catches a glimpse of their foe trying to cross a stream, and then vanish. Vernar raises a quizzical eyebrow at Butternut once the pair are reunited at the stream's edge. If there was time, Vernar would look for a long branch to poke at the bottom of the stream with, but he cannot afford to let their quarry get too much of a lead again. He spots a path and begins to cross, when suddenly his arms are flailing wildly in the air as he slips from a slick stone and plunges into the water, and mere moments later over the edge of a waterfall!

After a few seconds of free falling, Vernar and Butternut plunge into a pool at the bottom of the small water fall. The pond is deep enough for the water to absorb their impact without causing any great injury. Both surface, sputter to take in air and make for a nearby shore. Wearily, they reach the shore and take a look around. At least this time it was fresh, clean water!

Once Vernar can find his voice, he sputters, "Guess I be gettin' that bath after all."

Looking around, he sees a body floating, and moves over to investigate. One hand reaches to lift up the head while the other holds a dagger firmly to plunge it into a soft, fleshy spot should there still be any life left.

While this is going on, the sound of hooves approaching is heard. Vernar whirls around, expecting more foes, but this trio appears to not be from the group he spotted earlier.

“I'm Sergeant Crandell of Talon Squad!” The human male calls out as he aims his crossbow. “Identify yourselves!”

"Well, if it be the cavalry," Vernar says, repeating something he once overheard from two grizzled human veterans. "We be some o' what's left o' Wyvern Squad. You be mighty noisy considerin' how many goblins 'n ogres be about this night."

[Butternut]

Butternut:

The loose, gravelly slope makes stealth a hopeless case. As it starts to level out, Butternut snags a tree with her arm as she slides past, using it to check her uncontrolled movement. Under the circumstances, she counts herself lucky that she didn't slip and fall before reaching the bottom.

With silent signals, the halfling and dwarf split up, Butternut taking one side of the depression and Vernar the other. Finally able to control her movement, she glides along low and quiet seeking any hint of her prey. Rounding a boulder, Butternut spots movement ahead. Bringing her crossbow up, she aims and fires. A grunt of pain rewards her effort, which also serves to flush the target from the shadows in which he had been unsuccessfully attempting to hide.

Chasing after the half-orc, Butternut links up with her dwarven companion as they draw near the stream. They see him start to cross and then disappear from sight. Vernar gives her a puzzled look, to which she responds in a whisper, "Can't let him get away, so on we go..."

Vernar leads the way across the stream, skipping and jumping from rock to rock; Butternut no more than a couple of steps behind. It quickly becomes obvious that they are moving along the top edge of a waterfall, but there is no good option but to keep going. Reaching the middle of the stream, Vernar suddenly starts to flail his arms as he loses his balance. Butternut reaches out in an attempt to steady him, but it only results in her slipping as well. A heartbeat later, both are falling toward an uncertain fate below.

The impact with the surface of the pool knocks the wind from Butternut's lungs, but does no real damage. Gasping and sputtering, she swims toward her dwarven companion until she finds a spot where she can stand with her head above water. He appears to have found a body; moving closer, Butternut can see that it looks like the half-orc they were chasing. "So much for him, eh? Let's drag him ashore and have a good look at what he's carrying."

Looking back up the hill toward where they left the others, it becomes apparent that they have traveled quite a ways. Looking Vernar in the eye, she jerks her head back that way. "Gonna be a while getting back, I suspect."

As she rifles the half-orc's pack and pockets, the sound of riders approaches. Looking up, Butternut sees three riders illuminated by torchlight. The holder of the torch appears to be a human female. With her are a human male and a dwarven male, both pointing crossbows in her direction. Butternut snarls in their direction as she hunches over the body of the deceased half-orc.

“I'm Sergeant Crandell of Talon Squad!” The human male calls out as he aims his crossbow. “Identify yourselves!”

"Well, if it be the cavalry," Vernar says, repeating something he once overheard from two grizzled human veterans. "We be some o' what's left o' Wyvern Squad. You be mighty noisy considerin' how many goblins 'n ogres be about this night."

Annoyed, Butternut straightens up. In the dim torchlight, the strangers can see a lean, ropy halfling woman of middle years. Her dark blonde hair is woven into a forest of tight braids. Bright green eyes glitter in a hard, angular face.

She considers her own crossbow, but doubts that it would work very well in its current water-logged state. Plus, there's no quarrel loaded anyway. Of course, if they are who they say they are, it shouldn't come to a fight. "What are you lot doing out here in the middle of the night?"

_________________________________________________________________________
Hey folks! Welcome to the asylum! Always good to have new victi--, I mean, inmates.

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

Awareness seeps back into Vardra's mind, bringing an ache in his temples with it. His next sensation is of movement, indicated by a scraping and bumping along lower parts of his body and accompanied by a pulling sensation on his arms. Forcing his eyes to open, Vardra looks to either side and sees that Flare appears to be dragging him in the general direction of their campfire. "Hi Flare. What's going on?" he asks, sounding not entirely coherent yet.

Once he's able to move under his own power, Vardra notes that Lucyus appears to be just waking up as well not far away. "You okay, Lucyus? You get knocked out by that half-orc's spell, too? I guess we must have won the battle."

Vardra looks about at all the bustling activity. It quickly becomes apparent that only about half the squad is still around. He doesn't see Ren, Sorvani, Vernar, or either of the halfling women anywhere. He turns to whomever is nearest at the moment. "Wait. Where is everyone?" It occurs to him that the battle may have cost them far more than he would have expected.

_________________________________________________________________________
I'm presuming that the first trio has started up the ramp by time Vardra has gathered his wits.

[Gerett]

"I hate horses..." Gerett muttered under his breath as he struggled to remain in the saddle through the night. Out of respect for his new commander he kept his complaints to himself--he knew it was not Crandall's job to keep him comfortable. And there was nothing to do about it anyway: the only way to get to Eagle's Nest in time to warn them of what they had seen was on horse.

Gerett had fumbled with his gear for a moment when they first heard the splash from the river. Getting either weapon to bear from the saddle would be impossible, but if these were scouts of the enemy, the biggest concern was if they tried to run--and he couldn't afford to be caught on foot if that happened.

He stopped fumbling and left his bags alone when he saw what they were dealing with. The fact that the strangers were a dwarf and halfling did not necessarily mean they were friendlies, though it was an argument in that direction. No, mostly he was relieved that the strangers both had short legs. No chase right now, at least. He tried to remain still and retrieve what decorum he could in his current awkward state.

The dwarf, the halfling, and the Sergeant all had questions, and Gerett let it play out while he mentally organized his inventory just in case it did come to a fight. Crossbow was in the saddle bag: useless on horse even if he got to it. He held his halberd choked almost to the head in his left arm along with the reins. No chance of using it from horse either, and even dismounting would mean tossing it to the ground and picking it back up once he got his feet under him. Pulsating softly in his personal bag was a mass of flesh and fur and fat with a particularly hard head; that fool badger that had started following him last week had somehow managed to sleep through the nightly ride.

Course, who was the fool dwarf who tossed him mushrooms? Admit it, you miss being in charge, having someone to care for.

But of course, Gerett was not in charge: even Mitch the badger didn't follow orders. And for now, what was important was trying to make the Sergeant look good while he bandied with what now seemed to be allies. For all his years of leadership Gerett now felt like a new recruit, complete with an awkward attempt to keep all his gear stowed on the horse like a squire in training.

Though he expected Crandall to do most of the talking, something the other dwarf said stood out.

"So you've met with them yourselves? The vanguard, to make sure Eagle's Nest can't warn Greystone." Despite his position as a hired swordarm, he couldn't resist his trained impulse to give a full report. The faster the crucial information got out, the more productive the conversation would be. And if these were enemies under false pretenses, they'd know this intel anyway. "But they're just the tip. And it's not just goblins either. Men, orcs, ogres...an army with siege engines to boot. Does Eagle's Nest still stand?"

[Lucyus]

Lucyus
The ashy smokiness of the campfire invades his sense of smell as he breathes deeply. His eyes slowly open and he sees the dancing g amber and crimson of the fire through the pounding of his head. Letting out a groan Lucyus rises to all fours, his stomach feels queasy for a moment but then subsides. He looks about him and sees some of the others as Vardra’s voice is heard,

"You okay, Lucyus? You get knocked out by that half-orc's spell, too? I guess we must have won the battle."”

Shaking his head, and rising to his feet, he looks about some of the others are about while some are missing. “As well as can be expected, my friend. You? Seems so.. Where’s my axe and shield?”he asks groggily.
Spotting Erisciana, “How did the battle fair? Where are the others? Did any fall in battle?” he asks as he dawns his shield and hefts his axe mirroring Vardra’s thinking.

[GM Mad]

Small Update:

Butternut and Vernar have emerged from the pond to find a trio of riders before them. One challenges them and says that he is Sergeant Crandell from Talon Squad.

"Well, if it be the cavalry," Vernar says, repeating something he once overheard from two grizzled human veterans. "We be some o' what's left o' Wyvern Squad. You be mighty noisy considerin' how many goblins 'n ogres be about this night."

“Wyvern Squad,” Crandell repeats. “That's Beekers Command, right?”

She considers her own crossbow, but doubts that it would work very well in its current water-logged state. Plus, there's no quarrel loaded anyway. Of course, if they are who they say they are, it shouldn't come to a fight. "What are you lot doing out here in the middle of the night?"

“I could say the same,” Sergeant Crandell notes, his crossbow still at the ready.

"So you've met with them yourselves? The vanguard, to make sure Eagle's Nest can't warn Graystone." Despite his position as a hired swordarm, he couldn't resist his trained impulse to give a full report. The faster the crucial information got out, the more productive the conversation would be. And if these were enemies under false pretenses, they'd know this intel anyway. "But they're just the tip. And it's not just goblins either. Men, orcs, ogres...an army with siege engines to boot. Does Eagle's Nest still stand?"

“We are trying to reach Eagle's Nest to alert Fort Graystone of the army approaching it,” Sergeant Crandell states. “To raise the warning flag before they are attacked. However, it seems the enemy had the same idea, only to raise the all clear flag so they can attack with surprise.”

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

The priestess waits as the plan's steps are carried out. The first trio heads up the ramp and Erisci realizes she forgot all about Saan.

“I think I'll be comin' along with ye,” Sann Silverbeard calls out as he joins the first wave of climbers. “I be wantin' to see this Eagle's Nest anyway an' sure don't wanna be here when that horde arrives!”

"Good idea!" she offers. "I almost forgot you were there." Sneaky little dwarf.

Some of the group can make out Vernar and Butternut as they chase the half-orc. But soon they are lost from view. She only hopes they are successful and they might not make it back before the main enemy force does so.

Finally, Lucyus and Vardra awaken. Vardra looks about at all the bustling activity. It quickly becomes apparent that only about half the squad is still around. He doesn't see Ren, Sorvani, Vernar, or either of the halfling women anywhere. He turns to whomever is nearest at the moment. "Wait. Where is everyone?" It occurs to him that the battle may have cost them far more than he would have expected.

Spotting Erisciana, “How did the battle fare? Where are the others? Did any fall in battle?” Lucyus asks, as he dons his shield and hefts his axe, mirroring Vardra’s thinking.

Both of the fighters have the same concerns seeing many of their number not here currently. "It's complicated," the priestess states. "To wrap it in a nutshell: the group killed the goblins and one orc. The other ran. Vernar, Ren and Butternut chased him. Ren returned to warn us that a much, much larger enemy contingent was coming and the other two continued to follow the fleeing orc so he could not warn the larger force. They have not yet returned." She pauses for a moment.

"Ren, Wimzy and Sorvani, along with Saan, have started up the ramp to Eagle's Nest. We will go up in small groups to avoid the trap. Lucyus and Vardra, you two will be going up next as soon as you can collect your gear, with Flare. Take a few torches as well. The first group was the slowest and so they have a head start. Stay together and do not get too close to the previous group if you catch up to them. Each group can only cover a straight section together and one group at a time. The next passes after the first turns the corner."

The priestess looks to Kendall and Kaylessa. "The three of us will remain until the last moment. We will hide and Kaylessa will toss the Greek fire into our campfire, hopefully catching some of their number in the explosion, causing some temporary disarray. We have already prepared oil across the cave mouth and will set it alight and then run up the ramp. We hope to give them the impression of a covered retreat which will entice them to follow and the trap will catch a large portion of them, if not all. If any pass, we will have a much better chance to defeat them than trying to combat such numbers, including at least one ogre. Ren said he could not even see the entire force so it clearly has us outmatched. Once you get to the top, establish a plan for defending the Eagle's Nest against the remaining enemy. I doubt the trap will catch them all."

"So clear your heads quickly, get your things together and head up as soon as able. We don't have much time before the enemy arrives and we don't want to get bunched up. Our group will be running, likely with goblins on our heels."

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa
Kaylessa follows flare with the Paladin’s weapons and drops them to the ground near the Paladin. As she does so she takes the Greek fire in her hand, careful not to drop it.
The warrior and paladin soon begin to stir, “Your time is impeccable.” Kaylessa says with a smirk as draws her bow with her free hand.
She listens as the Warrior priestess fills the two sleepy heads in on the plan.

The priestess looks to Kendall and Kaylessa. "The three of us will remain until the last moment. We will hide and Kaylessa will toss the Greek fire into our campfire, hopefully catching some of their number in the explosion, causing some temporary disarray. We have already prepared oil across the cave mouth and will set it alight and then run up the ramp. We hope to give them the impression of a covered retreat which will entice them to follow and the trap will catch a large portion of them, if not all. If any pass, we will have a much better chance to defeat them than trying to combat such numbers, including at least one ogre. Ren said he could not even see the entire force so it clearly has us outmatched. Once you get to the top, establish a plan for defending the Eagle's Nest against the remaining enemy. I doubt the trap will catch them all."

Kaylessa looks to the warrior priestess for a moment, hoping that her arm is good enough to throw the unstable missile that accurately. “Let us hope they see us and give chase in order to get this plan to work. I will have to remember to zig zag if they throw spears or arrows.” She says evenly she steels herself for the coming task.
“I hope Vernar and Butternut are safe.”she says scanning the darkness though all she can see is the torches in the distance getting closer.
Kaylessa will wait for the signal to throw the alchemist’s fire, then run for the passageway.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

Both of the fighters have the same concerns seeing many of their number not here currently. "It's complicated," the priestess states. "To wrap it in a nutshell: the group killed the goblins and one orc. The other ran. Vernar, Ren and Butternut chased him. Ren returned to warn us that a much, much larger enemy contingent was coming and the other two continued to follow the fleeing orc so he could not warn the larger force. They have not yet returned." She pauses for a moment.

Lucyus listens intently hearing that their group was successful in battle. Though one of their number was still at large. Worse off there is a larger force moving at them as they speak.

The priestess looks to Kendall and Kaylessa. "The three of us will remain until the last moment. We will hide and Kaylessa will toss the Greek fire into our campfire, hopefully catching some of their number in the explosion, causing some temporary disarray. We have already prepared oil across the cave mouth and will set it alight and then run up the ramp. We hope to give them the impression of a covered retreat which will entice them to follow and the trap will catch a large portion of them, if not all. If any pass, we will have a much better chance to defeat them than trying to combat such numbers, including at least one ogre. Ren said he could not even see the entire force so it clearly has us outmatched. Once you get to the top, establish a plan for defending the Eagle's Nest against the remaining enemy. I doubt the trap will catch them all."

"So clear your heads quickly, get your things together and head up as soon as able. We don't have much time before the enemy arrives and we don't want to get bunched up. Our group will be running, likely with goblins on our heels."

“It seems the group did quite well in our absence.” The Paladin says looking at each in turn, “Thank you for looking after us.” He says easily to those about.”
Lucyus cracks his neck and raises his coif and helm over his head. “My head is clear. I must admit I do not like retreating but if we are in dire straights as you say. Then I will do as you ask. As this your plan, do you want Vardra and I to wait on the other side of the trap incase we are needed?” he asks curiously.
Lucyus will be ready to go up the ramp as Eris directed.

[Laurel]

Laurel stretches in the saddle as the group makes their way towards Eagles Nest. This was not what she signed up for. Not that she thought life in the army would be cushy, but she certainly didn't expect for most of her squad to be dead and those remaining riding for their lives in the middle of the night. A host of monsters on their heels and her, carrying the light. "Way to be the target" she thinks to herself, giving herself a sarcastic mental high-five. "somebody's got to do it"
She's pulled out of her thoughts by movement on the hill above them, somebody....somebodies moving through the undergrowth. Garrett and the Commander slow and ready their crossbows as a body comes splashing down the waterfall, a half orc. A sinking feeling spreads in Laurels gut. An army ahead, an army behind, and us stuck in the middle. "hammer and anvil" Seconds later more splashes, but these from living creatures. Laurel quickly jogs her mind of what tools she has at her disposal when this comes to a fight...

“I'm Sergeant Crandell of Talon Squad! Identify yourselves!”

"Well, if it be the cavalry, We be some o' what's left o' Wyvern Squad. You be mighty noisy considerin' how many goblins 'n ogres be about this night."

...Laurel mentally exhales, allies, probably, or at least people not trying to kill them like the army on their tail. She can let Sarge handle this one.

"Wyvern Squad, that's Beekers Command, right?"

"What are you lot doing out here in the middle of the night?"

"I could say the same"

So you've met with them yourselves? The vanguard, to make sure Eagle's Nest can't warn Graystone. But they're just the tip. And it's not just goblins either. Men, orcs, ogres...an army with siege engines to boot. Does Eagle's Nest still stand?"

"“We are trying to reach Eagle's Nest to alert Fort Graystone of the army approaching it, to raise the warning flag before they are attacked. However, it seems the enemy had the same idea, only to raise the all clear flag so they can attack with surprise.”

Feeling wary, Laurel pipes in "Do you think we can get a move on? I don't like sitting in one place too long when we've got safe walls in front of us and an army behind us. We can exchange information as we ride" "and if we don't like what we hear we can always push them off the horse...theoretically"

[Butternut]

Butternut:

“Wyvern Squad,” Crandell repeats. “That's Beekers Command, right?”

The halfling woman gives the man calling himself 'Sergeant Crandell' a suspicious look. "Ain't never heard of no Beeker. Then again, if you were really the sergeant of one of the squads, you would know that."

Butternut glances over at Vernar before returning her gaze to the crossbows pointing in her direction. "What do you think, Vernar? Either he's testing us, or they ain't really Talon Squad."

“I could say the same,” Sergeant Crandell notes, his crossbow still at the ready.

This man's non-answer to her question doesn't inspire much confidence. Butternut takes a quick look around for any nearby cover in case this turns into a fight. "This guy talks like a politician, Vernar. In my experience, almost all politicians are evil. We may have to kill him just on principle..."

"So you've met with them yourselves? The vanguard, to make sure Eagle's Nest can't warn Greystone." Despite his position as a hired swordarm, he couldn't resist his trained impulse to give a full report. The faster the crucial information got out, the more productive the conversation would be. And if these were enemies under false pretenses, they'd know this intel anyway. "But they're just the tip. And it's not just goblins either. Men, orcs, ogres...an army with siege engines to boot. Does Eagle's Nest still stand?"

The dwarf uncomfortably mounted on a horse chooses to speak up. From what he's saying - if true - the fort is in real danger. Before Butternut can reply, the so-called sergeant finally says something of substance.

“We are trying to reach Eagle's Nest to alert Fort Graystone of the army approaching it,” Sergeant Crandell states. “To raise the warning flag before they are attacked. However, it seems the enemy had the same idea, only to raise the all clear flag so they can attack with surprise.”

Now that they seem willing to talk, Butternut decides to respond in kind. "Reaching Eagle's Nest was our assignment. A previous squad, Chimera, had been sent previously, but nothing had been heard from them since. On our way up, we fell afoul of a nasty trap and had to fight our way out through what the dwarves apparently call the Bollo's Shield. Along the way, we found the survivors of Chimera."

Visibly starting to relax, the halfling woman continues. "We were going to make another attempt in the morning, but a couple of half-orcs showed up with a dozen gobbos, apparently with the same idea. This's the last of them." Butternut gestures at the body near her feet. "We saw a much bigger force approaching, and didn't want him warning them. They're ahead of you on the road up."

Feeling wary, Laurel pipes in "Do you think we can get a move on? I don't like sitting in one place too long when we've got safe walls in front of us and an army behind us. We can exchange information as we ride" "and if we don't like what we hear we can always push them off the horse...theoretically"

The woman finally speaks up. Butternut was beginning to wonder if she was mute. "There's a sizable force ahead of you. If there's an army behind, I'm not sure where you think these safe walls are. I'm in favor of moving on, though... Assuming your friends here aren't planning on turning me into a pincushion. We might be able to help the rest of Wyvern and Chimera by attacking the unfriendlies from behind - if we time it right."

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

Looking around him, Vardra spots his gear not far away and starts to walk that way. Then, hearing a groan from Lucyus, Vardra turns back to the paladin.

Shaking his head, and rising to his feet, he looks about some of the others are about while some are missing. “As well as can be expected, my friend. You? Seems so.. Where’s my axe and shield?”he asks groggily.

Vardra stretches his neck by cocking his head to one side and then the other. "I think so. A bit sore, but otherwise fine. As for your gear, I think I saw Kaylessa drop them near you a moment ago."

The warrior and paladin soon begin to stir, “Your time is impeccable.” Kaylessa says with a smirk as draws her bow with her free hand.

Vardra looks confused for a moment. "Uh... you're welcome? I'm not sure what that spell she hit us with was, but it sure knocked me for a loop."

Both of the fighters have the same concerns seeing many of their number not here currently. "It's complicated," the priestess states. "To wrap it in a nutshell: the group killed the goblins and one orc. The other ran. Vernar, Ren and Butternut chased him. Ren returned to warn us that a much, much larger enemy contingent was coming and the other two continued to follow the fleeing orc so he could not warn the larger force. They have not yet returned." She pauses for a moment.

While he works to put on the rest of his armor, Erisciana addresses both his and Lucyus' similar questions at once. 'That accounts for Vernar and Butternut,' Vardra tallies the missing compatriots in his head. Unfortunately, with them gone an a much larger force by Eri's description on its way, that leaves them short-handed.

"Ren, Wimzy and Sorvani, along with Saan, have started up the ramp to Eagle's Nest. We will go up in small groups to avoid the trap. Lucyus and Vardra, you two will be going up next as soon as you can collect your gear, with Flare. Take a few torches as well. The first group was the slowest and so they have a head start. Stay together and do not get too close to the previous group if you catch up to them. Each group can only cover a straight section together and one group at a time. The next passes after the first turns the corner."

'Okay, I think that's everyone,' Vardra thinks as he checks off his mental list. "Good to hear everyone made it through the battle." He doesn't really like the idea of retreating, but it certainly makes sense in this instance. Perhaps the trap they got caught by will whittle down their opponents. "Okay, Eri, we'll keep a eye out for them and not get too close." With his armor almost done, he will put on his pack next, then follow it with his bow and quiver.

“It seems the group did quite well in our absence.” The Paladin says looking at each in turn, “Thank you for looking after us.” He says easily to those about.”

"Seconded." Vardra is grateful that the others were able to keep him safe during the battle and afterwards.

Kaylessa looks to the warrior priestess for a moment, hoping that her arm is good enough to throw the unstable missile that accurately. “Let us hope they see us and give chase in order to get this plan to work. I will have to remember to zig zag if they throw spears or arrows.” She says evenly she steels herself for the coming task.

Vardra turns to the elven woman. "I suspect speed will be your best friend in this, Kaylessa. If you can stay a ramp ahead of the attackers, then they won't have a shot at you."

“I hope Vernar and Butternut are safe.”she says scanning the darkness though all she can see is the torches in the distance getting closer.

Hearing Kaylessa's words, Vardra turns to look in the same direction. He can see the torches, but no more than that. "Yes, as do I."

Lucyus cracks his neck and raises his coif and helm over his head. “My head is clear. I must admit I do not like retreating but if we are in dire straights as you say. Then I will do as you ask. As this your plan, do you want Vardra and I to wait on the other side of the trap in case we are needed?” he asks curiously.

Vardra glances over at Lucyus and then back to Eri. "I am almost ready. As you said, we will put together a plan to defend the Eagle's Nest once we get there and see the lay of the land." It only takes a few more moments to sheathe his sword and collect his shield. "Ready, Lucyus. Let's collect Flare and be on our way."

Vardra walks quickly over to the odd ranger, lighting one of the torches he collected in Bollo's Shield in the campfire along the way. No point in wasting his lantern oil while he has torches on hand. "Time to go, Flare. You'll be leading Lucyus and I up the ramp."

[GM Mad]

Another Small Update:

Vernar and Butternut chased the half-orc into the nearby stream where everyone slipped on the rocks, fell into the water and then went over a waterfall. The clean pond was deep enough to cushion the fall, but the half-orc was not as lucky as his body just drifts nearby.

Butternut searches the half-orc for valuables. A coin pouch is found along with several weapons. A short sword is on his hip in a scabbard while several daggers, some concealed, are all over his body. Six daggers in all can be found. His backpack holds some regular gear along with a set of thieves tools. He wore leather armor.

A trip of riders approach Butternut and Vernar. Conversation follows, but the three seem on edge. Their leader is a Sergeant Crandell of Talon Squad.

The halfling woman gives the man calling himself 'Sergeant Crandell' a suspicious look. "Ain't never heard of no Beeker. Then again, if you were really the sergeant of one of the squads, you would know that."

“You can never be too careful,” Sergeant Crandell answers as he relaxes. The crossbow bolt is returned to its holder and the bow stored away. “We are essentially behind enemy lines. Caution is warranted. Join us. We'll talk along the way.”

Crandell offers his hand to any who will ride with him.

“The dwarf is Gerett,” Sergeant Crandell continues. “The lady is Laurel, a Priestess of Felix. Our mission was to man the Falcon's Watch observation post two days ride from Fort Graystone. We reached the old caravan resting stop without incident as night started to fall. Next morning, I was taking Laurel and Gerett up to the observation post. Unlike Eagle's Nest, it's not a real base. Just a place where you can observe the pass below. It was a several hour ride to reach Falcon's Watch. By the time we got there, the enemy army was already down below. We raised the danger flag but could see no response from Eagle's Nest.”

“The rest of Talon Squad was eliminated by the enemy army. They must have almost been on top of us when we left for Falcon's Watch. I decided that we had to reach Eagle's Nest to raise the warning flag. That meant following the enemy army as they advanced down the valley. When they reached the road to Eagle's Nest, they sent their own force which we are following. Is there any way to get past them and reach Eagle's Nest first?”

Now that they seem willing to talk, Butternut decides to respond in kind. "Reaching Eagle's Nest was our assignment. A previous squad, Chimera, had been sent previously, but nothing had been heard from them since. On our way up, we fell afoul of a nasty trap and had to fight our way out through what the dwarves apparently call the Bollo's Shield. Along the way, we found the survivors of Chimera."

“What sort of trap?” Sergeant Crandell wonders. “I've never heard of any traps at Eagle's Nest. Nor of this Bollo's Shield.”

Visibly starting to relax, the halfling woman continues. "We were going to make another attempt in the morning, but a couple of half-orcs showed up with a dozen gobbos, apparently with the same idea. This's the last of them." Butternut gestures at the body near her feet. "We saw a much bigger force approaching, and didn't want him warning them. They're ahead of you on the road up."

“How many of your unit is there at Eagle's Nest?” Sergeant Crandell asks. “Will they be able to hold against this enemy force?”

[Sorvani]

Sorvani:

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."

“Yeah”, Sorvani agrees. “If they know he is among us, than he will be their target.”

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

“If we survive all of this, there are many things I will be happy to reconsider,” Sorvani states with a grin.

“I think I'll be comin' along with ye,” Sann Silverbeard calls out as he joins the first wave of climbers. “I be wantin' to see this Eagle's Nest anyway an' sure don't wanna be here when that horde arrives!”

“You are most welcome to come along, Sann,” Sorvani says. “Grab your gear and what you want to take along. That's the same for everyone else. Grab anything you can carry. Extra water and food for instance. We do not know how long we'll be stuck up there.”

Sorvani will grab the extra food and water from his mount and help himself to such things from the other horses. You always stock up during a siege!

Once they are ready, Ren leads the way up the mountain while Wimzy, Sann and me follow. Sorvani holds the torch so that those of us who cannot see in the dark can made out where we are going. Figuring that he is the fastest among this group, Sorvani will adjust his pace to theirs.

“Let us move like there is an army nipping at our heels!” Sorvani calls out. “Because there is!”

[Kendell]

Kendell:

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

Kendell gives the lady elf a hand as we move the grim soldier back to the campfire.

The priestess looks to Kendall and Kaylessa. "The three of us will remain until the last moment. We will hide and Kaylessa will toss the Greek fire into our campfire, hopefully catching some of their number in the explosion, causing some temporary disarray. We have already prepared oil across the cave mouth and will set it alight and then run up the ramp. We hope to give them the impression of a covered retreat which will entice them to follow and the trap will catch a large portion of them, if not all. If any pass, we will have a much better chance to defeat them than trying to combat such numbers, including at least one ogre. Ren said he could not even see the entire force so it clearly has us outmatched. Once you get to the top, establish a plan for defending the Eagle's Nest against the remaining enemy. I doubt the trap will catch them all."

Kendell turns and makes his ways towards the horses and mules. “I'm not going to let them get burned when the oil is lit!” he declares. “Nor am I going to let those goblins stab'em!”

Kendell unties the mounts reigns and will give them a slap on the rump to get them out of the cave.

“Go get a drink!” he tells them. “Go hide in the forest! Just don't be here!”

With that task done, Kendell rejoins the others. “I'm ready,” he announces. “When we start to run keep in front of me. I've got armor to protect me.”

The grim soldier and holy warrior awaken and agree with the plan the leather priestess has come up with. They start to head up the tunnel with the crazy woodsman.

“See you at the top,” Kendell calls out.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

Kaylessa wrote:The warrior and paladin soon begin to stir, “Your time is impeccable.” Kaylessa says with a smirk as draws her bow with her free hand.

Lucyus looks at the elf maiden, “What did we miss?”
The answer comes from Eris as she soon breaks down her plan.

Vardra glances over at Lucyus and then back to Eri. "I am almost ready. As you said, we will put together a plan to defend the Eagle's Nest once we get there and see the lay of the land." It only takes a few more moments to sheathe his sword and collect his shield. "Ready, Lucyus. Let's collect Flare and be on our way."

“Give me a moment,”Lucyus will grab any remaining rations and water he has and return his water skins hanging from his shoulder.

Vardra walks quickly over to the odd ranger, lighting one of the torches he collected in Bollo's Shield in the campfire along the way. No point in wasting his lantern oil while he has torches on hand. "Time to go, Flare. You'll be leading Lucyus and I up the ramp."

Lucyus approaches the odd pair, “Let us be on our way.”to Eris, Kaylessa and Kendell. “I wish you good fortune. We will be ready upon your arrival.
( More to come once the others post)

[Laurel]

"There's a sizable force ahead of you. If there's an army behind, I'm not sure where you think these safe walls are. I'm in favor of moving on, though... Assuming your friends here aren't planning on turning me into a pincushion. We might be able to help the rest of Wyvern and Chimera by attacking the unfriendlies from behind - if we time it right."

Laurel hid behind her hair blushing. She had been holding a candle for being able to fight this battle from inside a fort, one meant to possibly withstand an assault of this size. A hammer and anvil inside of a hammer and anvil, and her getting hopelessly squashed.

Crandell offers his hand to any who will ride with him.

“The dwarf is Gerett, The lady is Laurel, a Priestess of Felix. Our mission was to man the Falcon's Watch observation post two days ride from Fort Graystone. We reached the old caravan resting stop without incident as night started to fall. Next morning, I was taking Laurel and Gerett up to the observation post. Unlike Eagle's Nest, it's not a real base. Just a place where you can observe the pass below. It was a several hour ride to reach Falcon's Watch. By the time we got there, the enemy army was already down below. We raised the danger flag but could see no response from Eagle's Nest. The rest of Talon Squad was eliminated by the enemy army. They must have almost been on top of us when we left for Falcon's Watch. I decided that we had to reach Eagle's Nest to raise the warning flag. That meant following the enemy army as they advanced down the valley. When they reached the road to Eagle's Nest, they sent their own force which we are following. Is there any way to get past them and reach Eagle's Nest first?”

She offers her hand to the dwarf, afterall, it made sense and it would help avoid the jokes about two dwarves on a horse.

"Reaching Eagle's Nest was our assignment. A previous squad, Chimera, had been sent previously, but nothing had been heard from them since. On our way up, we fell afoul of a nasty trap and had to fight our way out through what the dwarves apparently call the Bollo's Shield. Along the way, we found the survivors of Chimera."

“What sort of trap? I've never heard of any traps at Eagle's Nest. Nor of this Bollo's Shield.”

"Bollos Shield" Laurel thought. How she wished she had some time to retreat into her cubby at the Library at the Crossroads and research this out, but alas, all she had with her were here wits. And if they didn't get to Eagles Nest and raise the flag there might not be any Library at the Crossroads to study at. Her mind turned again. Ancient trap, at least, old enough to not be remembered. Maybe she could pilfer some memories from the place. Any knowledge helped.

"We were going to make another attempt in the morning..."

“How many of your unit is there at Eagle's...”

Laurel barely heard the rest of the conversation, too busy sifting through stored knowledge in her head about what sort of thing "Bollos Shield" could be.

[Gerett]

“You can never be too careful,” Sergeant Crandell answers as he relaxes. The crossbow bolt is returned to its holder and the bow stored away. “We are essentially behind enemy lines. Caution is warranted. Join us. We'll talk along the way.”

Crandell offers his hand to any who will ride with him.

Gerett shifted a little, hoping the halfling took the Sergeant's hand. Gerett was having a hard enough time on his fool nag already, and he really didn't want to have to explain himself if someone sat on Mitch. The badger wouldn't take it well...

"One moment, just so I get things clear. It sounds like Wyvern and Chimera are worse for wear. And Talon, well this is all of Talon. Do the officers from those squads remain?" He shook his head. He didn't know how things worked in human armies. Would the squads merge? Or remain separate units? It probably didn't matter too much. He didn't have to understand the whole command structure, just...

"What I mean to ask is, who is in charge now?" He looked to the Sergeant, and to Butternut, who seemed to be doing most of the talking, and to Verner, who despite his curtness seemed to have more of an air of professionalism than the informal halfling.

"There's a sizable force ahead of you. If there's an army behind, I'm not sure where you think these safe walls are. I'm in favor of moving on, though... Assuming your friends here aren't planning on turning me into a pincushion. We might be able to help the rest of Wyvern and Chimera by attacking the unfriendlies from behind - if we time it right."

"I like the plan, anyway. It's not ideal that the squads are all split up--but since we are, we may as well use it to our advantage and turn tha' tables rather'n try to rush to reconnoiter with tha' rest.

"Are we assuming that Eagle's Nest is already taken by the greenskins, then? Or is there a chance yer friends'll make it there first? Regardless, what sort of outpost is this? Tower, walls, tree stand with a rope ladder? Exactly how much are we on our back foot if the gobbos have it already?"

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

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

“If we survive all of this, there are many things I will be happy to reconsider,” Sorvani states with a grin.

The priestess smiles easily in return. "We will see you at the top!"

After the priestess makes a plea for the safety of their animals, Kendall comes in and quickly sends them all off into the forest. Apparently, Aruru worked through her companion in this matter. She nods at the man and his concern for the innocent beasts that had served all of them.

With Lucyus and Vardra conscious and active, the plans move forward ever more. There is an air of tension as the enemy horde gets closer. Erisciana remembers her training. High difficulty tasks require low anxiety and calmness of precise action. She searches her emotions and while her heart rate has certainly increased as the moments stretch on, her head is clear. All has gone according to plan... so far.

Lucyus cracks his neck and raises his coif and helm over his head. “My head is clear. I must admit I do not like retreating but if we are in dire straights as you say. Then I will do as you ask. As this your plan, do you want Vardra and I to wait on the other side of the trap in case we are needed?” he asks curiously.

"There is no lack of honor in retreating in order to put your forces in a better position to win," she says, with a wink. "But to answer your question, you may not even notice where the trap is as you pass. Better I believe to set up your defensive position somewhere above the ramp."

Vardra doesn't really like the idea of retreating, but it certainly makes sense in this instance. Perhaps the trap they got caught by will whittle down their opponents. "Okay, Eri, we'll keep a eye out for them and not get too close." With his armor almost done, he will put on his pack next, then follow it with his bow and quiver.

The priestess nods in the fighter's direction. "Hopefully we will not be long behind you!"

Kaylessa looks to the warrior priestess for a moment, hoping that her arm is good enough to throw the unstable missile that accurately. “Let us hope they see us and give chase in order to get this plan to work. I will have to remember to zig zag if they throw spears or arrows.”

"You will have some magickal Protection upon you as well. I am fairly certain that when they see the dead scout party and the explosion erupts amongst them, that they will be looking to give chase," she says with an easy smile. She steps over to the elf and puts her hand on Kaylessa's shoulder. "Concentrate on the steps of the plan. Just do your best. If things change dramatically, we will adapt."

“I hope Vernar and Butternut are safe,” Kaylessa says scanning the darkness; though all she can see are the torches in the distance getting closer.

"As do we all. Unfortunately, we can do nothing for them at this time. But they have skills. If that half-orc did not ambush and get the drop on them, they should be able to stay clear of the advancing force." Erisci does not relish the thought of leaving with two of their number unaccounted for, but if they did their job, they should be safe.

Vardra glances over at Lucyus and then back to Eri. "I am almost ready. As you said, we will put together a plan to defend the Eagle's Nest once we get there and see the lay of the land." It only takes a few more moments to sheathe his sword and collect his shield. "Ready, Lucyus. Let's collect Flare and be on our way."

Erisci watches the trio disappear into the cave and up the ramp. The last players to enter this deadly theatre were nearly here.

Kendell rejoins the others. “I'm ready,” he announces. “When we start to run keep in front of me. I've got armor to protect me.”

"You'll not get any argument from me," Erisci states will a wry smile. Checking the location of the approaching army, she will cast her Shield on herself and Protection from Evil on Kaylessa at what she feels is appropriate time to be hidden when they arrive, but not too far in advance so as to get maximum advantage of their durations.

Erisciana smiled confidently. Some of her companions felt she was not fit to lead, but she was certain this was the best plan given the circumstances. She could hardly wait to see how it played out.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

The conversation with the three riders continues...

“You can never be too careful,” Sergeant Crandell answers as he relaxes. The crossbow bolt is returned to its holder and the bow stored away. “We are essentially behind enemy lines. Caution is warranted. Join us. We'll talk along the way.”

A grim expression wanders onto the halfling's face. "Quieter talk would be better. Less likely to be heard."

The sergeant lowers his weapon, introduces his companions, and describes their assignment. Sounds like their mission got as messed up as our own. He then inquires about getting back before the enemy force. "Not sure. We fell off a waterfall. If we can find a way around it, then we might be able to beat them by riding across country. Probably want to try on the side away from the road." Butternut follows her last statement with a gesture in the approximate direction.

After stuffing the weapons, thieves tools, and coin pouch into her backpack, Butternut accepts Crandell's offer of a hand up onto his horse.

“What sort of trap?” Sergeant Crandell wonders. “I've never heard of any traps at Eagle's Nest. Nor of this Bollo's Shield.”

Settling herself in behind the sergeant upon his horse, Butternut fields his next question. "Long series of ramps up inside the mountain to reach Eagle's Nest. Near the top, there is a foot switch that causes that section of ramp to release and dump anyone on the ramp down a long slide. Dumps out in some caves. The caves connect to a dwarven outpost over that'a way - Bollo's Shield."

"One moment, just so I get things clear. It sounds like Wyvern and Chimera are worse for wear. And Talon, well this is all of Talon. Do the officers from those squads remain?" He shook his head. He didn't know how things worked in human armies. Would the squads merge? Or remain separate units? It probably didn't matter too much. He didn't have to understand the whole command structure, just...

"What I mean to ask is, who is in charge now?" He looked to the Sergeant, and to Butternut, who seemed to be doing most of the talking, and to Verner, who despite his curtness seemed to have more of an air of professionalism than the informal halfling.

Butternut looks over at the ill-mounted dwarf. "Both sergeants died in the caves. Vernar there and a paladin named Lucyus were chosen to lead at that point. That might have changed by now."

“How many of your unit is there at Eagle's Nest?” Sergeant Crandell asks. “Will they be able to hold against this enemy force?”

"Nine. Eagle's Nest is at the top, they're at the bottom of the ramps. Not sure about holding, but I hope they have a better plan than just fighting."

"I like the plan, anyway. It's not ideal that the squads are all split up--but since we are, we may as well use it to our advantage and turn tha' tables rather'n try to rush to reconnoiter with tha' rest.

"Are we assuming that Eagle's Nest is already taken by the greenskins, then? Or is there a chance yer friends'll make it there first? Regardless, what sort of outpost is this? Tower, walls, tree stand with a rope ladder? Exactly how much are we on our back foot if the gobbos have it already?"

Butternut thinks about what they saw and how long she and Vernar have been gone. "They were quite a ways out. I doubt they're reached the entrance yet.

"As for what it is..." Butternut shrugs. "Never got to the top, so don't know."

She turns and speaks to Crandell's large back. "Either way, we should get going. Let's find a place where we can observe, then figure out what to do."

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa

Vardra looks confused for a moment. "Uh... you're welcome? I'm not sure what that spell she hit us with was, but it sure knocked me for a loop."

A sly smirk crosses the elf's features as she begins to speak. “Eris identified it as Colorspray. And it could have been worse, you could have not woken up at all,” she says simply to the warrior.

Vardra turns to the elven woman. "I suspect speed will be your best friend in this, Kaylessa. If you can stay a ramp ahead of the attackers, then they won't have a shot at you."

“Elves tend to run fairly fast, especially when running from an angry horde.”

“Go get a drink!” he tells them. “Go hide in the forest! Just don't be here!”

A smile comes to Kaylessa’s face as she sees the big warrior call out for the horses. “He has a good heart,” she says softly.

"You will have some magickal Protection upon you as well. I am fairly certain that when they see the dead scout party and the explosion erupts amongst them, that they will be looking to give chase," she says with an easy smile. She steps over to the elf and puts her hand on Kaylessa's shoulder. "Concentrate on the steps of the plan. Just do your best. If things change dramatically, we will adapt."

“I thank you for that,” she says thoughtfully. Feeling the warrior priestess' hand on her shoulder she looks down on it momentarily. Looking to the human’s eyes. “I will do my part to whatever end,” she says stoically though softly. “In truth it scares me to death,” she says with unreadable mask. “When I left the elfholds I did not think I would be running for my life away from a horde of goblins and an ogre.” Taking a deep breath, she realizes what is being asked of her. “I’ll do my best not to let you and the others down.”

Kaylessa will be ready with her part of the plan. When it comes time to run, she will run steady, her bow in her hand.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

"There is no lack of honor in retreating in order to put your forces in a better position to win," she says, with a wink. "But to answer your question, you may not even notice where the trap is as you pass. Better I believe to set up your defensive position somewhere above the ramp."

"When honor comes to you be ready to take it; But reach not to seize it before it is near,” as my mentor once said. “In truth, we do not know where the trap may lay yet by our time afoot. It could be near the summit for all that we know.”

“We will set up defenses as best we can. Perhaps there are still defenses we may make able,” he says to the Warrior Priestess. He looks to Kaylessa and then says. “Run swiftly and be stout of heart.”

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

"You will have some magickal Protection upon you as well. I am fairly certain that when they see the dead scout party and the explosion erupts amongst them, that they will be looking to give chase," she says with an easy smile. She steps over to the elf and puts her hand on Kaylessa's shoulder. "Concentrate on the steps of the plan. Just do your best. If things change dramatically, we will adapt."

“I thank you for that,” she says thoughtfully. Feeling the warrior priestess' hand on her shoulder she looks down on it momentarily. Looking to the human’s eyes. “I will do my part to whatever end,” she says stoically though softly. “In truth it scares me to death,” she says with unreadable mask. “When I left the elfholds I did not think I would be running for my life away from a horde of goblins and an ogre.” Taking a deep breath, she realizes what is being asked of her. “I’ll do my best not to let you and the others down.”

Erisciana meets Kaylessa's gaze. "Only a madman is not afraid. Being brave is simply a matter of finding your way through the fear. Overcoming it. You are the best of us for this unenviable task and so you cannot let us down. Simply do your best and we will adapt," she looks briefly at Kendall. "I cannot speak for our fighter, but if calamity strikes, I will be by your side, even in death." She smiles again, trying to deflate the seriousness that forms around them. "So let us make certain it doesn't come to that! I, for one, have much more to complete before I join Ishtar permanently!"

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

A sly smirk crosses the elf's features as she begins to speak. “Eris identified it as Colorspray. And it could have been worse, you could have not woken up at all,” she says simply to the warrior.

"Seems I got off lucky, then," Vardra says, his tone introspective.

“Elves tend to run fairly fast, especially when running from an angry horde.”

"Glad to hear it, Kaylessa," Vardra says with a smile. "I'm pretty fast myself; perhaps we could race some time - after we get through this."

The priestess nods in the fighter's direction. "Hopefully we will not be long behind you!"

Vardra returns the nod, his face grim. "Don't tarry any longer than you have to. We're stronger together than separate."

Sorvani will grab the extra food and water from his mount and help himself to such things from the other horses. You always stock up during a siege!

“Give me a moment,”Lucyus will grab any remaining rations and water he has and return his water skins hanging from his shoulder.

Seeing what Sorvani and Lucyus are up to, Vardra will take the hint and do likewise. Careful of not being loaded down excessively, Vardra will focus on food and water primarily. It's hard to be certain how long they might get stuck up at the top of the hill if the trap doesn't take out most of the oncoming force.

"When honor comes to you be ready to take it; But reach not to seize it before it is near,” as my mentor once said. “In truth, we do not know where the trap may lay yet by our time afoot. It could be near the summit for all that we know.”

The saying quoted by the paladin appeals to Vardra. He mentally repeats it to himself several times in an effort to memorize the saying.

Lucyus approaches the odd pair, “Let us be on our way.”to Eris, Kaylessa and Kendell. “I wish you good fortune. We will be ready upon your arrival.

Vardra gives a quick salute to those remaining behind as he approaches the foot of the first ramp.

“See you at the top,” Kendell calls out.

"I'm counting on it, Kendell!" Vardra calls back to the massive warrior.

_________________________________________________________________________
In stocking up, Vardra will try to stop short of being more encumbered than he already is.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Butternut, Gerett, Laurel and Vernar:

The night's rest was rudely disturbed when a small force of goblins and half-orcs approached the camp. The goblins were quickly taken out by spells and arrows. One of the half-orcs got a spell off and it knocked out Lucyus and Vardra. The other half-orc fled, with Vernar and Butternut giving chase. The pursuit led down the steep side of the hill and to a small stream. Everyone slipped in the stream, fell into the water and then plunged over a waterfall!

Butternut and Vernar survived the plunge, but the half-orc did not. As they were pulling themselves out of the pond, a trio of riders approached. The two groups warily chatted with each other and discovered that all present were members of the adventuring units aiding the army in the taking of Gateway. The new arrivals were from Talon Squad and included their commanding officer Sergeant Crandell, a dwarf named Gerett and Laurel, a human Priestess of Felix.

The sergeant lowers his weapon, introduces his companions, and describes their assignment. Sounds like their mission got as messed up as our own. He then inquires about getting back before the enemy force. "Not sure. We fell off a waterfall. If we can find a way around it, then we might be able to beat them by riding across country. Probably want to try on the side away from the road." Butternut follows her last statement with a gesture in the approximate direction.

Butternut is given a boost up on Sergeant Crandell's horse. The halfling ranger settles in behind the human commander. Vernar is offered a ride by Laurel. As he makes his way up on top of the horse, he notices that Laurel has a pet cat with her.

“This path winds its way up the hill,” Sergeant Crandell notes. “Given how steep it appears, I doubt the horses could make that climb. Even less of a chance during the middle of the night. I thought, perhaps, another route existed but that seems to have been a foolish notion.”

"One moment, just so I get things clear. It sounds like Wyvern and Chimera are worse for wear. And Talon, well this is all of Talon. Do the officers from those squads remain?" He shook his head. He didn't know how things worked in human armies. Would the squads merge? Or remain separate units? It probably didn't matter too much. He didn't have to understand the whole command structure, just...

"What I mean to ask is, who is in charge now?" He looked to the Sergeant, and to Butternut, who seemed to be doing most of the talking, and to Vernar, who despite his curtness seemed to have more of an air of professionalism than the informal halfling.

Butternut looks over at the ill-mounted dwarf. "Both sergeants died in the caves. Vernar there and a paladin named Lucyus were chosen to lead at that point. That might have changed by now.”

“Since I am the only commanding officer present,” Sergeant Crandell notes, “then I am in command. However, the remains of Chimera and Wyvern Squads are engaged elsewhere. For now they are left to their own devices.”

"I like the plan, anyway. It's not ideal that the squads are all split up--but since we are, we may as well use it to our advantage and turn tha' tables rather'n try to rush to reconnoiter with tha' rest.

"Are we assuming that Eagle's Nest is already taken by the greenskins, then? Or is there a chance yer friends'll make it there first? Regardless, what sort of outpost is this? Tower, walls, tree stand with a rope ladder? Exactly how much are we on our back foot if the gobbos have it already?"

“From the reports I've read,” Sergeant Crandell states, “Eagle's Nest is a small fortification on the top of the mountain. There is a path that leads up inside the mountain to reach it. A crude stable exists at the entrance to the area.”

Settling herself in behind the sergeant upon his horse, Butternut fields his next question. "Long series of ramps up inside the mountain to reach Eagle's Nest. Near the top, there is a foot switch that causes that section of ramp to release and dump anyone on the ramp down a long slide. Dumps out in some caves. The caves connect to a dwarven outpost over that'a way - Bollo's Shield."

“There has been no reports of any such trap that I've heard of,” Crandell notes. “I have no reason to believe such information would have been deliberately withheld.”

"Nine. Eagle's Nest is at the top, they're at the bottom of the ramps. Not sure about holding, but I hope they have a better plan than just fighting."

“Strategically speaking, if there is a trap leading up the Eagle's Nest, then their best option is use it against the enemy,” Sergeant Crandell suggests. “At the very least it is easier to defend yourself against a larger group from a fortified position. If your companions have any common sense, then they should be making their way up to the Eagle's Nest. Assuming they can avoid this trap that you are speaking of.”

Butternut thinks about what they saw and how long she and Vernar have been gone. "They were quite a ways out. I doubt they're reached the entrance yet.

She turns and speaks to Crandell's large back. "Either way, we should get going. Let's find a place where we can observe, then figure out what to do."

“Agreed,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “Gerett take the lead as we ride along the path. Laurel, extinguish the torch so we are not noticed. Let's go slow and stay close to each other so that we don't ride off the trail. Talk only in whispers as we get closer to the enemy unit's rear.”

With that Gerett takes the lead with Sergeant Crandell and Butternut right behind him. Laurel and Vernar bring up the rear as the horses make their way up the trail towards the Eagle's Nest.

[GM Mad]

Ren, Sorvani and Wimzy:

At the Eagle's Nest, the first group is making their way up the ramp inside the mountain. Ren leads Wimzy, Sorvani and Sann. The group is moving much quicker this time as they jog up the ramp. What seemed like a never ending journey the first time goes much faster now. The group keeps much closer. Sorvani adjusts his own speed as he is faster than those with him.

As the group is moving up yet another featureless hallway, the crucial moment arrives! They feel a click as they reach the trap trigger! Everyone just keeps moving ahead and nothing happens! They safely bypass the trap!

Continuing on, they reach the corner and spot something new about forty feet ahead! A pair of large wooden doors, with metal reinforcement, are spotted. They appear similar in design to the ones seen down in the dwarven lair far below.

“This definitely be dwarven construction,” Sann calls out as he tries to catch his breath from the rapid climb. “Maybe this is part o' the shield as well!”

The group slows their advance as they approach the doors. They are closed right now, but pushing on one has it easily swing open. Behind the door is a twenty-foot by thirty-foot chamber. On the wall to the left is another set of reinforced doors. On the floor beside the entry door are timbers that can be used to bar the door, much like the large timber that had to be broken to gain entry into Bollo's Shield.

The second set of reinforced doors open as easily as the first one did. Beyond this door is a large, some twenty-foot wide and sixty-foot long hallway. More timbers are present to bar this second door. A row of tables and benches fill the middle of this long hall, suggesting that it is a common area. There are two doors on the left hand wall and two more on the right hand wall. A single door can be seen along the far wall. No light can be seen in this area, but there are numerous brackets to hold torches and several barrels of spare torches in this area.

[GM Mad]

Flare, Lucyus, and Vardra:

Lucyus and Vardra recover from the Color Spray spell right after the first group started up the ramp. As the men recover they learn what happened while they were unconscious. They finish putting their armor on as they get ready to follow the first group up the ramp. Extra supplies are taken from the horses while Kendell works to free the mounts from the stable.

Once ready the three men break into a jog and start their way up the ramp. Lucyus is the slowest of the three so everyone adjusts to his speed. The trip goes much faster this time and the hallways pass by quickly.

Nearly ten minutes into their trek, the trio can feel the click that Ren discussed when the gnome was talking about his impressions of the trap. The three men continue on regardless and have safely bypassed the trap! The door to Eagle's Nest greets them right around the corner! The first group up the ramp has had about ten minutes to explore this area before the second group arrived.


Erisciana, Kaylessa and Kendell:

The second group has departed up the ramp and Kendell has shooed the horses and mules out of the cave. With everything set, the trio waits. Time passes slowly as they wait for the enemy to arrive. There has been no sign of Butternut and Vernar either.

Finally, Kaylessa notices movement where the goblins were fought just recently! The first part of this new horde has arrived. The goblin bodies are spotted and calls of alarm go out.

Now expecting trouble, a group of armed goblins swarm forward weapons at the ready. Several move towards the campfire and the cave opening not far from it. Once the enemy is close enough, Kaylessa tosses the container of Alchemist's Fire into the camp fire! A small explosion follows and fiery oil is thrown all over the immediate area. Several goblins are taken out by the initial explosion and many more are hit by the fiery oil.

Cries of confusion and pain fill the air. The oil by the cave entrance is lit and the last of the combined squads run for it! This last group is the fastest of the trios and the trip up the ramp goes by very fast! So fast that they didn't even see any goblins come into the cave! In just a matter of minutes this last group reaches the top of Eagle's Nest! They arrived a few minutes after the group with Flare, Lucyus and Vardra!

The noise of goblins running up the ramp can be heard as somewhere deeper in the mountain the enemy horde is coming!


Butternut, Gerett, Laurel and Vernar:

After about twenty minutes of silently riding through the dark up the trail following the enemy horde an explosion is heard not that far away! There was a flash of light and a “Whoomf!” as what sounded like a vial of Alchemist's Fire was ignited! The cries of goblins in pain can be heard off in the distance. Orders are shouted out and the horde is ordered to give chase to those who carried out this surprise attack!

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The Butternut, Gerett, Laurel and Vernar group are still a fair distance behind the larger group advancing on the campsite. Perhaps as many as 10 minutes behind right now. Far enough away that you cannot be seen with infravision by the enemy. Likewise their torches are a fair distance away.

All three groups were able to use the jogging movement rate to reach the top of the Eagle's Nest. Here's how all these different movement rates work.

Each race has a base movement rate. For humans and elves, it is 12. For dwarves, gnomes and halflings it is 6. This base number is adjusted if the person has high enough strength and/or dexterity. This number is then adjusted based on encumbrance. That gives you your final movement rate.

Dungeon exploration speed is your movement rate expressed in tens of feet. So if you had a move of 12, you would move 120 feet per round in a dungeon.

Normal walking speed is your movement rate expressed in tens of yards, so in the example above the character would move 120 yards or 360 feet in a round.

What the groups going up the ramp did was jog to the top. This is a faster movement rate than normal walking. It doubles the normal movement rate, so as per the example above one would be going 240 yards or 720 feet in a round. A character can only hold this pace for so long before they tire and have to go slower or rest. This duration is equal to the characters strength and constitution added together. So if the sample character has 12 strength and 14 constitution then they can jog for 26 rounds before tiring.

Running works the same as jogging, but is triple the normal walking movement rate. So that works out to 360 yards per round or 1080 feet. This rate is twice as tiring as jogging, so the sample character can run at this speed in full gear for 13 rounds.

There are some NWP's that influence all of this. If you have the Endurance NWP, than the time you can jog or run is doubled. If you have the Running NWP than you can run for 1 turn at 1.5 times faster than your normal run or you can jog for a full 8 hours at a time, but then have to rest for at least 8 hours afterwards.

The first group took ten minutes to jog up the ramp based on the slowest member of that group. The second group took 9 minutes, again based on the slowest. The last group took a mere 6 minutes to make the climb!

The first group had 10 minutes to explore Eagle's Nest before the second group arrived. The third group arrived 4 minutes after the second group. Goblins, being much slower, will take longer to arrive. You may have as many as ten minutes before any goblins arrive.

Now what?

[Lucyus]

Lucyus
Taking a deep breath, Lucyus begins to move after the others. He sets the pace as his boots echo off the stone. He begins to Hum a song from his training as he takes a corner and moves on.
. He takes a quick glance back behind him to see if the others are behind them but the darkness robs him of any news. As he looks back he hears a click! “Keep moving!’ He calls out as they move past the trap Lucyus sees a set of reinforced wooden doors comes into view, taking a better grip on his axe, Lucyus moves through the first gate, then the second. Looking about he looks for murder holes or the like. But then comes to a common area. Looking to those that came up before them, “Were you able to search the rooms?”
Lucyus will move through and begin lighting torches and placing them in Brackets. “If this is part of Bollo’s defense, I wonder what else they used to defend this place.”

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Vernar chews on all of the questions and bits of information passed back and forth while he sizes up the trio. Butternut takes charge of the bulk of the conversation, and that suits Vernar just fine. He figures if it comes to it, taking the horses out from under the other dwarf and the human sergeant is the best way to even the odds, especially considering how unsettled the other dwarf looks. Dwarves were just not meant to ride, Vernar thinks to himself.

Butternut glances over at Vernar before returning her gaze to the crossbows pointing in her direction. "What do you think, Vernar? Either he's testing us, or they ain't really Talon Squad."

"I be suspectin' they are who they say," Vernar says, "none other would be foolish enough t' be out 'bout with all these foes around."

This man's non-answer to her question doesn't inspire much confidence. Butternut takes a quick look around for any nearby cover in case this turns into a fight. "This guy talks like a politician, Vernar. In my experience, almost all politicians are evil. We may have to kill him just on principle..."

Vernar chuckles at this. The first truly mirthful moment he has had in quite some time. If it wasn't for their situation, he might actually let a belly laugh roll out across the hills.

A few moments later, Vernar's suspicions prove correct as tensions ease a bit and some information is quickly passed between the two groups. While Butternut quickly explains the current situation, and this sergeant declares himself in charge of everyone now, Vernar grabs a few daggers before Butternut stuffs everything into her pack. If there is a fight coming, he certainly does not want to run low on weapons.

She offers her hand to the dwarf, afterall, it made sense and it would help avoid the jokes about two dwarves on a horse.

The offered hand by the human female gives Vernar pause. Laurel is her name, given what this Crandell offered. Horses, Vernar thinks.

"My thanks," Vernar replies to her before clasping her hand firmly and doing his best to not embarrass himself climbing up. Thankfully he had the whole trip out here to gain some meager skill in riding, but it certainly is far from enough. Nonetheless, he manages to get situated without dumping himself, Laurel, or both of them onto the ground.

Vernar is offered a ride by Laurel. As he makes his way up on top of the horse, he notices that Laurel has a pet cat with her.

Vernar will attempt to pet the cat if it's at all friendly. He remembered several of the critters roaming freely in the village mostly to keep rodents away from the grain and other stockpiles. He is about to ask Laurel if it has a name, but she seems... lost in thought, Vernar guesses, and leaves well enough alone.

Since Butternut has taken charge of providing information that the sergeant needs, Vernar will occupy himself with ensuring they are not set upon by an enemy patrol. The humans will be limited in what they can see, especially once the torch is put out. Vernar will also look to see if he can make out anything as they grow closer to the trail and search for a way around undetected.

After about twenty minutes of silently riding through the dark up the trail following the enemy horde an explosion is heard not that far away! There was a flash of light and a “Whoomf!” as what sounded like a vial of Alchemist's Fire was ignited! The cries of goblins in pain can be heard off in the distance. Orders are shouted out and the horde is ordered to give chase to those who carried out this surprise attack!

"They be fightin' sounds like," Vernar says upon hearing the explosion, and then mentions to Butternut, "Ren's not out o' his tricks quite yet. Bet they be lurin' 'em to rush that ramp."

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

The second group heads up the ramp and it is now extremely quiet. With the mounts ushered out to the forested area nearby, the cave is empty except for the three remaining of Wyvern squad. For a short while the only sound is the fire, its flames lighting up the night. The priestess gazed into the fires for a few long moments. The flickering flames mirrored the flames of revenge that burned in her heart. Most of the time these feelings were kept hidden far beneath the surface. This humanoid horde was just one more obstacle to overcome on her journey to fulfill her purpose and her ultimate redemption.

Erisciana was jogged from her thoughts as the sounds of the approaching goblins could be heard. The enemy were still some distance before falling into their trap, but it was now time to make final preparations. She looked once to Kaylessa, the elf tensed for the initiation of surprise. Closer and closer, louder and louder, the enemy force approached.

Eventually, the priestess saw Kaylessa crouch lower like a jungle cat, which indicated she could likely see the first goblins or at least was about to see them. Erisci hoped that the elf would not be over-anxious and throw the firebomb too soon. The priestess held her breath. The goblins came into view of the fire and almost immediately calls of alarm began to rise in their ranks. The group had slaughtered the vanguard, an ample warning of danger to anyone.

Some of the goblins stalked forward, ready for battle. As they approached the cave and the fire, Kaylessa let fly with the projectile and it landed unerringly in the campfire. The priestess squinted, knowing what was to come and a smile graced her features as the explosion sent fiery oil all about. A moment later the oil at the cave mouth was lit, a feint of a sort, meant to make the enemy think it was an attempt to keep them back and cover the retreat. In truth it was a giant flaming invitation to follow!

In an instant the elf Kaylessa was running at them full speed. Erisci turned to Kendall nearby and nodded, indicating it was time to go. The priestess started up the ramp at a brisk pace. She let Kaylessa take the lead by a step and Kendall fell in next. Erisciana dashed forward up the steep incline as fast as her feet would allow, but keeping pace with Kaylessa's swift scamper, and quick enough to not get run into by the large fighter just behind.

The climb goes by quickly. Turn after turn, they proceed higher and higher, towards Eagle's Nest. The goblins cannot be heard behind them, only the sounds of their measured breathing as the smooth stone of the ramp passes underfoot. While the previous climb took over an hour, this time mere minutes pass as they turn a final corner and see heavy wooden double doors beckoning them forward. The rest of the group is here and it seems they are not long after the second group.

Stopping a moment to catch her breath, Erisci will state, "We're here! Everything so far according to plan. We didn't wait to see if the goblins were following, but they definitely seemed riled up. However, if you listen, you can hear them coming."

(OOC: Going to stop here since no indication yet what the other groups have done or found.)

[GM Mad]

Eagle's Nest Layout:

Here is a map and key for the Eagle's Nest.

eaglesnest.jpg (32.24 KiB) Viewed 10708 times

1. Entry area from the ramp. The white arrow shows the direction down the ramp.

2. This room has the two defensive doors in it. There are some timbers that can be used to bar the door coming from the ramp. The timbers for the other door are inside 3.

3. Common area. There are tables and benches down the middle. There are holders for torches on the walls along with barrels of unused torches.

4. Barracks. Sleeping areas for those stationed here. There are signs of recent use, from others in the army no doubt.

5. Store Room. Holds extra supplies. Spare arrows and bolts. Some weapons and shields, but nothing beyond what you already have. Some flasks of lamp oil and so on. No food.

6. Commanders Office. Has a desk and typical office furnishings. Pretty sparse right now.

7. Commanders Quarters. Private quarters for the commander. Not really being used. No furnishings.

8. Tower stairs. Stairs lead up counter-clockwise to the watch tower. The tower goes up four levels to break the mountain top. All there is at the top is a place for observation and a place to raise the status flag.

No one or thing is present in this area, but there are signs of the past army scouts having been here before.

Now what?

[Sorvani]

Sorvani:

And we're off... to an uncomfortably slow start, at least from Sorvani's point of view. Sorvani lets the demi-humans go in the lead as given his height he can easily see over them. Torch in hand, Sorvani follows them at a half-walk half-jog.

The trek seems to go much faster this time as we are not going into unexplored territory. Out of nowhere a click is felt and the floor does not shift or tilt and we are able to safely go past.

'We made it!” Sorvani cries out in relief. “Ren, I owe you a drink when we get back to civilization!”

Rounding the corner a pair of wooden reinforced doors appear before us. They look very much like the doors behind the Stone Dwarf we found down below in the trap.

“This definitely be dwarven construction,” Sann calls out as he tries to catch his breath from the rapid climb. “Maybe this is part o' the shield as well!”

“Do you think these two areas are connected?” Sorvani inquires of the dwarf. “A way to reach the dwarven lair from here?”

The wooden doors are closed, but fortunately not barred and we are able to pass through them. There is a small room behind the doors and the only way out is through a second set of doors. Past those door is what appears to be a common area stocked with more torches and holders to better illuminate the room!

“Let's take a quick look around,” Sorvani suggests. “We'll have guests any time now!”

Sorvani circles the walls, placing fresh torches into holders and than using his torch to light them. The side room are quickly looked at. Two seem to have been used as sleeping areas while another was used for storage. A set of rooms seem to have been set up as an office with a private officer quarters.

While in the store room, Sorvani will grab himself a shortbow. He's had training on how to use one, but didn't think to grab one before. A quiver of arrows are taken as well.

Emerging back into the common room, Sorvani can see that guests have arrived. Flare, Lucyus and Vardra have made the run up the ramp.

Looking to those that came up before them, “Were you able to search the rooms?”

“No one seems to be here,” Sorvani reports. “There are sleeping areas on one side and a store room and officer quarters on the other.”

A few minutes later, the last of us arrive.

“No sign of Butternut or Vernar?” Sorvani asks.

Stopping a moment to catch her breath, Erisci will state, "We're here! Everything so far according to plan. We didn't wait to see if the goblins were following, but they definitely seemed riled up. However, if you listen, you can hear them coming."

“Than we should probably get the outer doors barred and closed,” Sorvani states. “It's going to be a long night.”

[Kendell]

Kendell:

With the horses and mules moved away from the cave for their own safety, Kendell rejoins the others. The second group is getting ready to run up the ramp.

"I'm counting on it, Kendell!" Vardra calls back to the massive warrior.

Kendell nods in response as they start up the ramp, leaving him alone with the lady elf and the leather priestess. They are talking about something.

Erisciana meets Kaylessa's gaze. "Only a madman is not afraid. Being brave is simply a matter of finding your way through the fear. Overcoming it. You are the best of us for this unenviable task and so you cannot let us down. Simply do your best and we will adapt," she looks briefly at Kendall. "I cannot speak for our fighter, but if calamity strikes, I will be by your side, even in death." She smiles again, trying to deflate the seriousness that forms around them. "So let us make certain it doesn't come to that! I, for one, have much more to complete before I join Ishtar permanently!"

“I wont let those filthy creatures touch either one of you!” Kendell vows forcefully. “That you can count on!”

Time passes as we wait for the enemy to arrive. Kendell has a torch in hand and is position further up the ramp so his light isn't as noticeable. An explosion follows and the ladies start up the ramp. Kendell lets them pass and waits a few heart beats to make sure no one is close to us before heading up the ramp.

Kendell runs to catch up to the ladies and then settles into a position behind them. The trip goes much faster and nothing bad happens as we reach what must be the Eagle's Nest. The mage notes that we need to seal the doors to keep the goblins out.

“Than we should probably get the outer doors barred and closed,” Sorvani states. “It's going to be a long night.”

“Give me a hand with this,” Kendell calls out as he reaches down to pick up the timber used to bar the door.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

"I be suspectin' they are who they say," Vernar says, "none other would be foolish enough t' be out 'bout with all these foes around."

Butternut emits a snort of amusement. "Perhaps -- or our foes ain't their foes."

“This path winds its way up the hill,” Sergeant Crandell notes. “Given how steep it appears, I doubt the horses could make that climb. Even less of a chance during the middle of the night. I thought, perhaps, another route existed but that seems to have been a foolish notion.”

Butternut shrugs, though from her position behind the sergeant, he's unlikely to be able to see it. "There might be, but we were too busy hunting down that half-orc to explore much."

“Since I am the only commanding officer present,” Sergeant Crandell notes, “then I am in command. However, the remains of Chimera and Wyvern Squads are engaged elsewhere. For now they are left to their own devices.”

Not really caring one way or the other, Butternut doesn't respond. She is curious to see how some of the others will respond if they do end up back together.

“There has been no reports of any such trap that I've heard of,” Crandell notes. “I have no reason to believe such information would have been deliberately withheld.”

"I don't think it has been used regularly in a long time," Butternut replies. "The information may have been lost over the years."

“Strategically speaking, if there is a trap leading up the Eagle's Nest, then their best option is use it against the enemy,” Sergeant Crandell suggests. “At the very least it is easier to defend yourself against a larger group from a fortified position. If your companions have any common sense, then they should be making their way up to the Eagle's Nest. Assuming they can avoid this trap that you are speaking of.”

Crandell jabbers on about tactics for a moment, causing Butternut's eyes to glaze over a bit. "I suspect it depends on whether their guesses at how the trap works are accurate or not."

As they start up the road behind the enemy force, Butternut takes note of Crandell's instructions, though they seem pretty obvious to her. The ride itself is both monotonous and tense; if the enemy were smart, she figures they would leave someone to watch their backs. Nothing happens, though, so perhaps they are not that smart. Eventually, she begins to be able to see a flickering light from the campfire in the distance, indicating that they are getting closer.

"They be fightin' sounds like," Vernar says upon hearing the explosion, and then mentions to Butternut, "Ren's not out o' his tricks quite yet. Bet they be lurin' 'em to rush that ramp."

The sudden explosion causes Butternut to jerk in alarm. Tamping down her tightly-honed fight-or-flight response, Butternut focuses on Vernar's words. "Yup, he's like that." She suspects that gnome has far more tricks up his sleeve than they realize. The dwarf also confirms it likely that Crandell's guess was correct. Hopefully, the trap will work in the group's favor this time.

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa
Looking down at the palm of her hands to the alchemist fire. Feeling the smooth clay beneath her fingertips. The sounds of the approaching army could be heard now, the torch lights glow becoming more apparent, causing her to tense momentarily.
Looking in the direction of the coming army, Kaylessa begins to make out forms in the darkness causing her to crouch, the sweat upon her palms was unbareable as she wiped them off in turn moving the alchemist’s fire from to wet hand to dry, wiping it off on her pants. “We have company.”she says softly as the goblin’s cry our in alarm and rage, as shields and weapons are ready and soon the goblin’s charge.
Taking a few steps forward she looks back at Kendell and Eris and gives a hint of a smile, a cross between nervous and reassuring and throws the alchemist’s fire toward the oncoming onslaught that is baring down on the camp fire.
Seeing the Alchemist’s fire in action she is still not used to the sudden flash and she adverts her eyes for a moment then the next form alight with fire begin to wave and run like fireflies in the night. Not wanting to wait to see the entire outcome, Kaylessa turns on her heels and runs towards Eris and Kendell. “Fly!” she calls out in common as she reaches and passes Eris and Kendell.
Kaylessa sets a fast pace turn after turn, Kaylessa can feel the steady pounding of her feet and easy breathing. Within several moments, the trap is triggered, and they are safely behind it’s dark and moist embrace. Several moments later doors come into view with torch light beginning to lick at the darkness.

Stopping a moment to catch her breath, Erisci will state, "We're here! Everything so far according to plan. We didn't wait to see if the goblins were following, but they definitely seemed riled up. However, if you listen, you can hear them coming."

“Being alit with fire will have that effect on them.” She says with a hint of a smile, as she puts a stray hair from her face. “
Looking to the Mage, he asks of their missing companions.

“No sign of Butternut or Vernar?” Sorvani asks.

“Just an army of Goblins and a large ugly ogre.”she says to mage. “Perhaps they ran and hid.”she says with a shrug, “I know I would.” She says simply.

“Than we should probably get the outer doors barred and closed,” Sorvani states. “It's going to be a long night.”

“Give me a hand with this,” Kendell calls out as he reaches down to pick up the timber used to bar the door.

Kaylessa will begin to close the doors so that Kendell can bar them properly.”Was the Flag Raised?” Kaylessa asks as she goes to help the strong human needs help she will do so. Afterward she will begin looking around the walls. “Perhaps there is another way out.” She says to the others. “

[Lucyus]

Lucyus
Adjusted as Sorvani is setting up torches

“No one seems to be here,” Sorvani reports. “There are sleeping areas on one side and a store room and officer quarters on the other.”

“Let us see what the storeroom holds. Perhaps there are things that we can use in the defense of the fort. Was there anything of worth in the Officer quarters? And papers?”he asks curiously.

“Than we should probably get the outer doors barred and closed,” Sorvani states. “It's going to be a long night.”

‘Possibly days. We will have to see if there is any food stores.” Though he feels it is doubtful that there is much as it is not an active fort. “Sann is there a hidden escape maybe here?
Lucyus sees Kaylessa and Kendell working on securing the doors, Lucyus will take a look in the officers quarters. See if there are any orders left or things of value.

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

The time comes: Flare and Lucyus indicate that they are ready for the trip up the ramps. Vardra starts out at a ground-gobbling trot, then realizes that he is getting ahead of the others so he throttles back. Based on his understanding of the trap, it is important that they all hit the switch at about the same time.

Up and around, up and around, up and around. The trip becomes a trial in monotony as they trot up each ramp, then turn the corner to the next ramp. Worse, constantly moving uphill is tiring; fortunately, they are all in good shape. Still, it is hard to maintain careful concentration. Vardra keeps one eye on the torch in his left hand in an effort to maintain his focus, as well as make sure that it is not likely to go out.

Still, it comes as a bit of a surprise when he feels the floor shift slightly beneath his foot and hears a clicking noise. Lucyus exhorts them to keep moving, which Vardra does and they bypass the trap safetly. Good thing that the three of them have maintained discipline and stayed close together as they trekked up the ramp!

Turning the corner, Vardra sees the double doors leading into a room. "We made it!" Vardra exults. All the way up, he had harbored a fear that he would end up in the pool at the bottom of the slide once again. But now, he can lay that fear to rest.

A second set of double doors leads into a hallway, which has several doors off of it. The previous group prowl about the area, going about various tasks. Sann appears quite happy to be surrounded by solid dwarven construction.

“No one seems to be here,” Sorvani reports. “There are sleeping areas on one side and a store room and officer quarters on the other.”

Vardra nods his thanks. "Good to know, Sorvani."

“Let us see what the storeroom holds. Perhaps there are things that we can use in the defense of the fort. Was there anything of worth in the Officer quarters? And papers?”he asks curiously.

Vardra looks over at the paladin. "While you work on setting up defenses here, I'll head up to the outlook and see what the situation outside is." Unless Lucyus objects, Vardra will make his way up the stairs toward the top of the tower. At the top, he will look out in all directions.

_________________________________________________________________________
I'll pause here until I find out what may be visible from the top of the tower.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

Erisciana meets Kaylessa's gaze. "Only a madman is not afraid. Being brave is simply a matter of finding your way through the fear. Overcoming it. You are the best of us for this unenviable task and so you cannot let us down. Simply do your best and we will adapt," she looks briefly at Kendall. "I cannot speak for our fighter, but if calamity strikes, I will be by your side, even in death." She smiles again, trying to deflate the seriousness that forms around them. "So let us make certain it doesn't come to that! I, for one, have much more to complete before I join Ishtar permanently!"

“I wont let those filthy creatures touch either one of you!” Kendell vows forcefully. “That you can count on!”

Erisciana smiles at the large warrior. He may not be the brightest of their group, but he definitely is gallant.

The groups all reach the top of the mountain, bypassing the infamous trap successfully. The other two groups have made it successfully to the Eagle's Nest and Kaylessa, Kendall and the priestess arrive as well, quite a distance ahead of the trailing humanoids.

Stopping a moment to catch her breath, Erisci will state, "We're here! Everything so far according to plan. We didn't wait to see if the goblins were following, but they definitely seemed riled up. However, if you listen, you can hear them coming."

“Being alit with fire will have that effect on them.” She says with a hint of a smile, as she puts a stray hair from her face.

The priestess makes a sideways head bob, a smile gracing her face as well.

The groups have been exploring the small area that is Eagle's Nest. Kendall goes to start barring the first door, but Lucyus and Vardra leave the area. Kaylessa closes the doors behind them all. The priestess will entreat their quiet ranger to help with the process off putting the wooden bar in place. While they do that, she will casually look about the first room (with the two sets of double doors). She looks about the wall and ceiling to see if there are any anti-siege formations built into the defenses, such as loopholes or meurtrières. She will take a quick look at the double doors as well.

Throughout the structure, there doesn't appear to be much here, which is not unusual given the recent use of this place.

Afterward Kaylessa will begin looking around the walls. “Perhaps there is another way out,” she says to the others.

"A valid point," Erisci adds. "This place isn't big enough to withstand an extended attack. We should look very closely for hidden exits."

[GM Mad]

Small Update:

“Do you think these two areas are connected?” Sorvani inquires of the dwarf. “A way to reach the dwarven lair from here?”

“That would make sense,” Sann agrees as he starts to look around himself. “Providin' that the ancient dwarves wanted to move about unnoticed.”

“Let us see what the storeroom holds. Perhaps there are things that we can use in the defense of the fort. Was there anything of worth in the Officer quarters? And papers?”he asks curiously.

‘Possibly days. We will have to see if there is any food stores.” Though he feels it is doubtful that there is much as it is not an active fort. “Sann is there a hidden escape maybe here?”

As noted in the map and key the store room holds extra supplies. Spare arrows and bolts. Some weapons and shields, but nothing beyond what you already have. Some flasks of lamp oil and so on. No food.

Lucyus sees Kaylessa and Kendell working on securing the doors, Lucyus will take a look in the officers quarters. See if there are any orders left or things of value.

The desk has nothing on top of it and the drawers are empty. It's clear that no one has really used it in a long time.

Vardra looks over at the paladin. "While you work on setting up defenses here, I'll head up to the outlook and see what the situation outside is." Unless Lucyus objects, Vardra will make his way up the stairs toward the top of the tower. At the top, he will look out in all directions.

Vardra makes his way to the top of the tower. The stairs spiral upwards making two complete revolutions before emerging from the ground. There are loopholes in the tower wall as he goes up the stairs. At the top of the stairs there is a door that leads out to a small walkway around the tower. In an open box at the top of the stairs is a white flag and a black flag. The flag pole is right outside the door.

Vardra can't see all that much outside the tower as it is the middle of the night. A few faint lights are noted far off in the distance, torches perhaps, or maybe lanterns. They are too far away to reveal anything beyond their presence.

The groups have been exploring the small area that is Eagle's Nest. Kendall goes to start barring the first door, but Lucyus and Vardra leave the area. Kaylessa closes the doors behind them all. The priestess will entreat their quiet ranger to help with the process off putting the wooden bar in place. While they do that, she will casually look about the first room (with the two sets of double doors). She looks about the wall and ceiling to see if there are any anti-siege formations built into the defenses, such as loopholes or meurtrières. She will take a quick look at the double doors as well.

Erisciana notes that on each door there is a small metallic door like area, only about six inches high and hinged on the bottom, but spanning the entire length of the door. Undoing the latch holding the hatch close will cause it to drop down. Behind this hatch are a series of holes in the door at about 3' off the ground. A human would have to stoop to use them for either a spear or a crossbow, but for a dwarf that would be idea. Both doors have these holes in them for defense.

"A valid point," Erisci adds. "This place isn't big enough to withstand an extended attack. We should look very closely for hidden exits."

After a quick look around, Sann does find a secret door! It is to the left of the door that leads up the tower stairs. However, there does not appear to be anyway to open it!


Outside Eagle's Nest:

Butternut and Vernar have joined up with Talon Squad and is trailing the large group of enemies that the rest of Chimera/Wyvern Squads were fleeing from. Sergeant Crandell commands Talon Squad of which only Gerett and Laurel remain.

“Are any of you who can see in the dark scouts?” Sergeant Crandell asks. “If so, dismount and creep closer to see what is going on. Once we know the lay of the land, than we can plan our next move.”

Now what?

[Gerett]

“Are any of you who can see in the dark scouts?” Sergeant Crandell asks. “If so, dismount and creep closer to see what is going on. Once we know the lay of the land, than we can plan our next move.”

"I'm not quiet nor light of foot. But my squad used to lay ambushes and defensive lines. And I sure wouldn't mind getting off horse. Anyway, I'll let someone a bit sneakier move up ahead. If we do decide to draw some of them back, I can set up at any spot and start pelting 'em." Gerett scans the area nearby for an elevated rock or hillock. "I figure if they start getting hit from behind while they try to ascend the hill, they'll have to split some of their force off and it'll make things easier on those in tha' Nest."

Gerett knew the value of preparation and hoped the group made a decision soon. On horse, moving apace and trying to keep up with an enemy who could whirl around and engage them at any time, both his weapons were liabilities. But if he could find a place to stand, to stab his halberd into the ground and set up his crossbow, he was confident that he could make himself very difficult to move. Forcing an enemy to choose between getting hit by crossbow bolts or charging into a set polearm was a tactic he had fallen in love with, despite it being cumbersome to set up. None of the others with him, excepting perhaps Crandall, looked to be line fighters. He found himself missing his old crew, missing being in command of a group of like-minded and like-armed dwarves who could act in unison. But those days were past, and being a hireling was going to mean working with a disparate group. He just hoped the girl with the cat had some sort of trick up her sleeve...

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Butternut's alarm at the explosion from up ahead quickly settles. She had seen a flare of light from the campfire about the same time, which seems to confirm Vernar's suspicion that this was Ren's handiwork.

“Are any of you who can see in the dark scouts?” Sergeant Crandell asks. “If so, dismount and creep closer to see what is going on. Once we know the lay of the land, than we can plan our next move.”

"I'm not quiet nor light of foot. But my squad used to lay ambushes and defensive lines. And I sure wouldn't mind getting off horse. Anyway, I'll let someone a bit sneakier move up ahead. If we do decide to draw some of them back, I can set up at any spot and start pelting 'em." Gerett scans the area nearby for an elevated rock or hillock. "I figure if they start getting hit from behind while they try to ascend the hill, they'll have to split some of their force off and it'll make things easier on those in tha' Nest."

Crandell asks for someone to sneak ahead and take a look. Gerett admits that he's not particularly sneaky, but seems eager to take any opportunity to get off his horse. Resisting the urge to smirk at this dwarf she doesn't really know yet, Butternut swings down off the horse while answering Crandell's question. "Vernar and I both have some skill at scouting, though his night vision is better than mine. We're getting fairly used to working together."

Based on Gerett's comments, Butternut puts together a quick recommendation. "Vernar and I can take a look ahead. Gerett can follow us just until he's about to lose sight of you two. If we get in trouble, we'll retreat to him, and he can signal you."

[Laurel]

As Vernar mounts the horse the cat squirms in its perch on Laurels pack unhappy with this new arrangement and loss of personal space. When Vernar attempts to pet him, the cat quickly rushes to accept this new form of affection. Vernar can hear Laurel mumble, "Traiter" under her breath as the cat abandons her for a new perch. After several minutes of the group riding as quietly as can be expected Laurel is suprised to hear the explosion and looks up to see the flames, "Bollo's Shield?" She thinks to herself. Her thoughts are immediately interrupted by the dwarf speaking behind her,

"They be fightin' sounds like, Ren's not out o' his tricks quite yet. Bet they be lurin' 'em to rush that ramp.

Laurel thinks to herself as she pulls the startled horse to a stop with the rest of the group.
"I've probably got this all wrong....maybe Bollos Shield is the place, not the trap, or maybe it's both. I should probably have paid attention to everything that halfling said. What was her name....Butterhut? It's definitely not Butterbutt."

“Are any of you who can see in the dark scouts? If so, dismount and creep closer to see what is going on. Once we know the lay of the land, than we can plan our next move.”

Laurel is about to speak up, but Garrett beats her to it, and she is more than happy to let him speak. While she was known in the library for being a bit of a sneak, and hard to find when she didn't want to be found, she had only ever practiced those skills in the city. Plus, she could barely see, despite the moon being out.

"I'm not quiet nor light of foot. But my squad used to lay ambushes and defensive lines. And I sure wouldn't mind getting off horse. Anyway, I'll let someone a bit sneakier move up ahead. If we do decide to draw some of them back, I can set up at any spot and start pelting 'em." Gerett scans the area nearby for an elevated rock or hillock. "I figure if they start getting hit from behind while they try to ascend the hill, they'll have to split some of their force off and it'll make things easier on those in tha' Nest."

Vernar and I both have some skill at scouting, though his night vision is better than mine. We're getting fairly used to working together.... Vernar and I can take a look ahead. Gerett can follow us just until he's about to lose sight of you two. If we get in trouble, we'll retreat to him, and he can signal you."

Laurel relaxed in her saddle a bit, personal space again - at least for a little bit. Malfamata slides into her lap as the dwarf behind her shifts. Instinctively her hand smooths the patchwork of hair on the back of his head. Laurel whispers down to him, her long black hair falling into her face, "Are you going to go with them, or stay here?"

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa

Somehow I missed this.

Erisciana meets Kaylessa's gaze. "Only a madman is not afraid. Being brave is simply a matter of finding your way through the fear. Overcoming it. You are the best of us for this unenviable task and so you cannot let us down. Simply do your best and we will adapt," she looks briefly at Kendall. "I cannot speak for our fighter, but if calamity strikes, I will be by your side, even in death." She smiles again, trying to deflate the seriousness that forms around them. "So let us make certain it doesn't come to that! I, for one, have much more to complete before I join Ishtar permanently!"

“I wont let those filthy creatures touch either one of you!” Kendell vows forcefully. “That you can count on!”

“Let us hope it does not come to that, my friends!”
“This is like moving a small tree!”she calls out as she helps lift the bar into place.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

As noted in the map and key the store room holds extra supplies. Spare arrows and bolts. Some weapons and shields, but nothing beyond what you already have. Some flasks of lamp oil and so on. No food.

Lucyus let’s out a frustrated sigh as he sees the state of the storeroom stores. “This does not bode well. Whomever manned this last did not intend to hold it.” He says frustrated by the lack of provisions. He then looks over the weapons to see what is there. Several weapons are of note.
Several thoughts run through his head as he moves to the officer’s quarters. ‘Superior force downhill. We have the height advantage. Barrels with torches could be rolled down the ramps aflame. The front ranks would retreat and chaos would begin. Yet would they roll properly…It is doubtful. If they break the doors we will not old. If we do fight we need to hit them before they breach the doors.’ He thinks to himself as he sees the desk. He rifles through the desk finding nothing of value.
(Leaving it there for the moment as I don’t want to post a what if)

[Vernar]

Vernar -

“Are any of you who can see in the dark scouts?” Sergeant Crandell asks. “If so, dismount and creep closer to see what is going on. Once we know the lay of the land, than we can plan our next move.”

Butternut swings down off the horse while answering Crandell's question. "Vernar and I both have some skill at scouting, though his night vision is better than mine. We're getting fairly used to working together."

"Aye, that we be," Vernar adds in reply. Once Laurel stops the horse, Vernar moves to dismount. The cat makes its way back to her as well.

Based on Gerett's comments, Butternut puts together a quick recommendation. "Vernar and I can take a look ahead. Gerett can follow us just until he's about to lose sight of you two. If we get in trouble, we'll retreat to him, and he can signal you."

Assuming he recovered his axe, Vernar will ready it and his sword. Otherwise, he will have his sword and a dagger prepared. When Butternut is ready, he heads out, leaving behind their new "companions" with a low sigh of relief. It is apparent Vernar is glad to be doing what he likes best; scouting. If he catches Butternut eyeing him, he will whisper mirthfully, "Hate havin' to train yet 'nother sergeant."

Vernar will move quietly, keeping pace with Butternut but not bunched together. He will scan the areas ahead and to his side away from them. He will tune out any soft noises he can identify and try to detect anything else moving nearby that is not them.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana -

“Do you think these two areas are connected?” Sorvani inquires of the dwarf. “A way to reach the dwarven lair from here?”

“That would make sense,” Sann agrees as he starts to look around himself. “Providin' that the ancient dwarves wanted to move about unnoticed.”

"Interesting," the priestess adds. "That would make the whole ramp and trap irrelevant to them except as a defense mechanism. They then could have an entirely alternate means of reach this observation point. It's possible that the scouts who have used it since simply were lucky enough to not trip the trap."

Erisciana notes that on each door there is a small metallic door like area, only about six inches high and hinged on the bottom, but spanning the entire length of the door. Undoing the latch holding the hatch close will cause it to drop down. Behind this hatch are a series of holes in the door at about 3' off the ground. A human would have to stoop to use them for either a spear or a crossbow, but for a dwarf that would be idea. Both doors have these holes in them for defense.

As Erisciana examines the doors, she sees that they have a built in defense function. It's unfortunate that she didn't think to have someone put oil on the ramp after the last turn. They could ignite it from here with a flaming arrow. She considers whether there is enough time to pull up the bar, get the oil, put it in place and reset the bar before the first enemy arrived here. She ponders for a moment.

She will let the others know what she found. "There is a method to help drive off the enemy that bypass the trap. The doors have holes in them that allow us to use spears and crossbows or possibly arrows to strike the enemy through the door. We should prepare a defense for the first wave of enemy that reaches us."

Saan finds a secret door near the stairs up to the observation area. But unfortunately no one has yet to figure out how to open it. It does seem to confirm the thought that the dwarf had about the area being connected to the halls far below. "If we can determine a method for opening it, then we do not have to be subjected to a prolonged seige by the evil humanoids. Definitely a large "if". I propose that some of us set up to defend the door while others continue to look for a means of operating the secret passage."