Operation: Graystone #16
April 13th, CR 569
It is very early in the morning as the remains of three army squadrons converge of what's left of the enemy forces. Most of Chimera and Wyvern Squad are defending the Eagle's Nest from attackers, while the remains of Talon Squad along with Vernar and Butternut are closing in from behind. What's left of the enemy forces are between them.
The group led by Butternut and Vernar have just rounded the corner of the ramp and can see the back of the enemy. Unaware of their presence, the enemy commander, a man in plate mail armor, and a gray dwarf stand about 2/3rds of the way up the ramp. Rushing towards this pair are five frantic goblins. The horrible screaming is come from around the next corner and cannot be seen. Vernar moves forwards as quietly and quickly as he can to get the drop on the duergar.
“Quid tu facis ?” the enemy commander demands in a foreign tongue of the approaching goblins. “Redire et inde pugna, obscenaeque canes minimi preti!”
The goblins come to a sudden halt, seemingly terrified of this man. If any of the goblins spot Vernar, they are too afraid to say so. They freeze in place and Vernar makes his move! Daggers in hand, Vernar glides toward his unsuspecting target. Once close enough, he strikes driving the dagger deep into the back of the duergar and through his heart! The gray dwarf lets out a muffled cry and simply crumbles to the ground!
This gets the immediate attention of the man in plate and he draws his sword! The longsword cuts not once, but twice into Vernar and he is greatly bloodied!
In response to this Gerett, Butternut, and Sergeant Crandell let loose with their ranged weapons. All the missiles either miss or are turned aside by the man's plate mail armor.
Back inside the Eagle's Nest the bar blocking the front door has been removed. The doors are swung open and the squads come rushing out. Lucyus, Vardra and Kendell lead the way with Erisciana, Kaylessa, Ren and Sorvani trailing behind. Wimzy cautiously moves up to the wounded man holding his face while Flare keeps on eye on the halfling healer.
The group rounds the corner of the ramp and also immediately locates the goblins. Erisciana casts a Sleep spell and all five crumble to the ground! Further up ahead they can see the man in plate mail, his torch now on the ground attacking Vernar! Even more importantly, Lucyus can see that this man, as was the wounded man in chain mail, are followers of Hextor!
Those further back can see the rest of Wyvern Squad and Chimera Squad moving to attack! The goblins drop to the floor, as if by magic. Another round of ranged attacks are fired at the man in plate mail armor. Only Butternut manages to score a hit on him. The rest of the missiles whiz past the new arrivals.
Lucyus rushes forward, letting out a battle cry as he runs towards his hated foe! His battleaxe is swung once, twice with both swings burying deep into his enemy! The Hextor priest attacks with his longsword and drives it into Lucyus, ignoring his previous target.
Kendell and Vardra trail behind Lucyus. Kendell scores a single hit, further wounding the evil priest. Vardra trails and settles the issue with a strike from his bastard sword and Vernar stabs him for good measure. The evil priest falls to the floor and into death.
Just like that, the enemy forces have been defeated. The goblins on the floor are just asleep, but that can be made permanent if desired. The wounded priest in chain mail can be saved if you wish.
At long last, the two groups are reunited. Gerett, Laurel and Sergeant Crandell are introduced to the rest of Chimera and Wyvern Squads.
“The flag?” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “Did you rise the danger flag? What's the situation here?”
Operation: Graystone #16
Operation: Graystone #16
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
GM Notes:
Hit Points:
Lucyus: 23 of 28
Vernar: 9 of 25
The battle went pretty quickly, so I just finished things off. The priest in chain mail can be saved if you so desire, as can the goblins.
You can now, finally, rest for the evening and spell casters can regain spells. This long day and night is finally over.
Xp's have been handed out in the usual place. For the convenience of the new players, here is the location that I refer too:
Roster Page
Single classed characters have already been awarded all of their gained experience. Multi-class characters have what I call discretionary points to spend. These points can be spent on any of your classes in any manner that you desire. Just let me know how you want to spend them and I will update your characters.
Gerett, being single classed, has had his points spent but Laurel has points to spend. The last column shows how many CP's you have unspent. These are gained as levels are gained and you can use them to buy new or improve existing Non-Weapon Proficiencies or Weapon Proficiencies. If there is a + sign next to this number, that means a level was gained.
XP's are gained in the usual manner. Each class gets a small number of experience doing things related to their class. Those experience points are automatically applied to their class. Players have no choice on where to spend those points. The points in the discretionary pool are primarily from defeating foes, posting and any story rewards.
Players who have become NPC's, mainly Ren and Wimzy, get their normal class related experience. I also give them half of the general experience gained by the active player who gained the least amount of experience. In this particular case, the player with the lowest new XP total had 1100 points. Ren and Wimzy received 550 each. In the case of multi-classed characters, this number is evenly split between their classes.
Now what?
Hit Points:
Lucyus: 23 of 28
Vernar: 9 of 25
The battle went pretty quickly, so I just finished things off. The priest in chain mail can be saved if you so desire, as can the goblins.
You can now, finally, rest for the evening and spell casters can regain spells. This long day and night is finally over.
Xp's have been handed out in the usual place. For the convenience of the new players, here is the location that I refer too:
Roster Page
Single classed characters have already been awarded all of their gained experience. Multi-class characters have what I call discretionary points to spend. These points can be spent on any of your classes in any manner that you desire. Just let me know how you want to spend them and I will update your characters.
Gerett, being single classed, has had his points spent but Laurel has points to spend. The last column shows how many CP's you have unspent. These are gained as levels are gained and you can use them to buy new or improve existing Non-Weapon Proficiencies or Weapon Proficiencies. If there is a + sign next to this number, that means a level was gained.
XP's are gained in the usual manner. Each class gets a small number of experience doing things related to their class. Those experience points are automatically applied to their class. Players have no choice on where to spend those points. The points in the discretionary pool are primarily from defeating foes, posting and any story rewards.
Players who have become NPC's, mainly Ren and Wimzy, get their normal class related experience. I also give them half of the general experience gained by the active player who gained the least amount of experience. In this particular case, the player with the lowest new XP total had 1100 points. Ren and Wimzy received 550 each. In the case of multi-classed characters, this number is evenly split between their classes.
Now what?
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Lucyus
Taking a deep breath, Lucyus pushes open the door. He can see the man screaming in agony as he begins to move down the hallway moving passed bodies and torches. As he comes closer to the fallen man he notices a symbol upon the fallen man.
A low growl, issues from his mouth as he realizes may what be infront of him, and drops his spear, drawing his trusty battleaxe
Two times, Lucyus brings his battleaxe to bare, striking the priest. His strikes are deep puncturing the man’s armor. Lucyus watches in slow motion as the enemies longsword breeches his defenses sliding beneath his shield. For a moment his armor holds but the mounting pressure he feels the cold steel pierce his side. Lucyus staggers back from the blow as he brings his shield up to better protect himself. He is about to step forward as Kendell and Vardra step forward and settle the issue.
Dropping to the Platemail priest’s body, Lucyus will begin looking for any information on him, supplies and weapons and armor. When he sees the holy symbol he will take his battle axe and split it in two with it.
Taking a deep breath, Lucyus pushes open the door. He can see the man screaming in agony as he begins to move down the hallway moving passed bodies and torches. As he comes closer to the fallen man he notices a symbol upon the fallen man.
A low growl, issues from his mouth as he realizes may what be infront of him, and drops his spear, drawing his trusty battleaxe
The figure in Platemail stands before him a bloodied sword in his hand. A moment of shock of seeing Vernar greatly bloodied, A Fiery rage boils upon seeing the platemail figure as the symbol of Hextor is seen upon him. He let’s out a battle cry of one simple name, but one that means the world to him, that will turn his foes attention upon him. “Heironeous!”Lucyus rushes forward, letting out a battle cry as he runs towards his hated foe! His battleaxe is swung once, twice with both swings burying deep into his enemy! The Hextor priest attacks with his longsword and drives it into Lucyus, ignoring his previous target.
Two times, Lucyus brings his battleaxe to bare, striking the priest. His strikes are deep puncturing the man’s armor. Lucyus watches in slow motion as the enemies longsword breeches his defenses sliding beneath his shield. For a moment his armor holds but the mounting pressure he feels the cold steel pierce his side. Lucyus staggers back from the blow as he brings his shield up to better protect himself. He is about to step forward as Kendell and Vardra step forward and settle the issue.
Looking about, Lucyus sees that the fight has been won. Several goblins are heard snoring but his eyes are drawn to Vernar, “Good to see alive my friend.”he says as he grips his side in pain. He sees Butternut who he gives a nod to. “Who are your friends?”.”Calling back to the others he lets out a smile as he drops his coif. His blue eyes smiling. “We have won this day!. Let us see to the wounded, take what spoils and information you may. Rejoice for now we may rest!”Just like that, the enemy forces have been defeated. The goblins on the floor are just asleep, but that can be made permanent if desired. The wounded priest in chain mail can be saved if you wish.
Dropping to the Platemail priest’s body, Lucyus will begin looking for any information on him, supplies and weapons and armor. When he sees the holy symbol he will take his battle axe and split it in two with it.
“Rest easy, Sgt. The good priestess of Ishtar, Eriscana saw to it.”"he says still gripping his side. We are bloodied and need of rest but we are well. There was an advanced scouting party whom we met in battle and dispatched save one. We retreated and defended the fort, Many of their ranks fell to the trap of the mountain to wallow in the filth and dark, perhaps to die of starvation. What you see before you are all that remains of Chimera and Wyrven Squad. Our Sergeants have both passed on from this life. I expect you have orders?”he says simply. "There is a follower of Hextor that still lives, though for how long I cannot say. We can question him if you wish?“The flag?” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “Did you rise the danger flag? What's the situation here?”
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Erisciana -
With the door unbarred and an uncommon agreement on proposed tactic, the group rushes out of the barricaded area. The screaming is louder, from the wounded man, now that the doors are not blocking the horrendous sound. The priestess ignores him for now and follows the fighters around the corner. She finds a gap between them as they advance, the remaining goblins viewable to her.
"Idi spat, cherty!" she says as she waves her hands in the appropriate patterns. The goblins all collapse into a magickal slumber. Apparently there were only 5 remaining. The trap on the ramp caught even more than she expected, she thinks with a mischievous grin. They could have attacked sooner, with such a small remaining force. But she is brought back to the present though, as crossbow bolts whiz past!
The battle is anti-climactic and over very quickly however. Lucyus is slightly wounded from his exchange with the Hextorite, but Vernar is bleeding noticeably. The priestess will move to Whimzy and the fallen enemy. She will say to the halfling, "See to our dwarven friend there," indicating Vernar, "he could use your goddess' touch!"
Calling back to the others he lets out a smile as he drops his coif, his blue eyes smiling. “We have won this day! Let us see to the wounded, take what spoils and information you may. Rejoice, for now, we may rest!”
Erisci thinks for a moment, looking at the wounded enemy. They certainly don't need a prisoner. That is far too much trouble. Especially if there is a larger force out there and they need to be mobile and possibly fight or flee. Before Flare has a chance to step away, she will place a hand on his arm to stop him and pull one of his visible daggers. She nods to him, quickly turning away. Kneeling down the priestess checks on the Hextor cleric laying on the floor and will use Flare's dagger to end the miserable cur's life. "May your evil god curse you for eternity," she whispers. Wiping the blade on any leather or cloth the man has, she quickly turns away from the grim but necessary task and sticks the weapon temporarily in her belt.
There seems to be a new Sergeant and others with Vernar and Butternut. The man asks about the signal flag and the priestess is about to respond, but Lucyus beats her to the words. She nods in agreement if anyone looks her way.
Lucyus then explains some of what happened to them recently. "There is a follower of Hextor that still lives, though for how long I cannot say. We can question him if you wish?"
"This one is dead," she says quickly, indicating the Hextor cleric, his screaming now mercifully ended. "Those goblins however are only slumbering and so they should be dealt with before our boisterous paladin wakes them with his exuberance," she says with a wry smile.
The priestess now has a chance to take note of the two other new faces in the group with Vernar and Butternut, besides the Cynalonian sergeant. She nods at the dwarf and dark-haired female. There will be a time for more formal greetings later. "And with any luck, these enemies had some magickal treasures," she says spreading her hands wide to indicate the fallen Hextor clerics. "If everyone would stand aside for a moment, or deal with those goblins, I will find out."
The priestess positions herself in a spot where she can see all three of the downed clerics. She concentrates for a moment, closing her eyes. Her hands wave back and forth across her body as her fingers trace the magickal sigils in the air. There is a trace of pink and golden symbols that hang suspended for a time and then dissipate in a sparkly pop. After a moment she opens her eyes suddenly and, for those looking, her eyes emit a bright golden light. Magickal sparks float about her face as she narrows her gaze, first looking at the cleric with the plate armor. She moves slightly to get a complete view of the fallen man. Moving to the next one, she continues her concentration, stepping around and then over his dead body and moving to the last. She will also use the spell on the fallen dwarf. She will allow her gaze to travel over the goblins as well, as there is time remaining, in case perhaps one of them also carried some treasure.
After nearly 5 minutes of magickal detection, she stops and closes her eyes once more. When she opens them the golden glow has faded and they are their normal brilliant blue. She lets out a sigh of relief and tiredness. "We have success," she says quietly but with a big smile.
With the door unbarred and an uncommon agreement on proposed tactic, the group rushes out of the barricaded area. The screaming is louder, from the wounded man, now that the doors are not blocking the horrendous sound. The priestess ignores him for now and follows the fighters around the corner. She finds a gap between them as they advance, the remaining goblins viewable to her.
"Idi spat, cherty!" she says as she waves her hands in the appropriate patterns. The goblins all collapse into a magickal slumber. Apparently there were only 5 remaining. The trap on the ramp caught even more than she expected, she thinks with a mischievous grin. They could have attacked sooner, with such a small remaining force. But she is brought back to the present though, as crossbow bolts whiz past!
The battle is anti-climactic and over very quickly however. Lucyus is slightly wounded from his exchange with the Hextorite, but Vernar is bleeding noticeably. The priestess will move to Whimzy and the fallen enemy. She will say to the halfling, "See to our dwarven friend there," indicating Vernar, "he could use your goddess' touch!"
Calling back to the others he lets out a smile as he drops his coif, his blue eyes smiling. “We have won this day! Let us see to the wounded, take what spoils and information you may. Rejoice, for now, we may rest!”
Erisci thinks for a moment, looking at the wounded enemy. They certainly don't need a prisoner. That is far too much trouble. Especially if there is a larger force out there and they need to be mobile and possibly fight or flee. Before Flare has a chance to step away, she will place a hand on his arm to stop him and pull one of his visible daggers. She nods to him, quickly turning away. Kneeling down the priestess checks on the Hextor cleric laying on the floor and will use Flare's dagger to end the miserable cur's life. "May your evil god curse you for eternity," she whispers. Wiping the blade on any leather or cloth the man has, she quickly turns away from the grim but necessary task and sticks the weapon temporarily in her belt.
There seems to be a new Sergeant and others with Vernar and Butternut. The man asks about the signal flag and the priestess is about to respond, but Lucyus beats her to the words. She nods in agreement if anyone looks her way.
Lucyus then explains some of what happened to them recently. "There is a follower of Hextor that still lives, though for how long I cannot say. We can question him if you wish?"
"This one is dead," she says quickly, indicating the Hextor cleric, his screaming now mercifully ended. "Those goblins however are only slumbering and so they should be dealt with before our boisterous paladin wakes them with his exuberance," she says with a wry smile.
The priestess now has a chance to take note of the two other new faces in the group with Vernar and Butternut, besides the Cynalonian sergeant. She nods at the dwarf and dark-haired female. There will be a time for more formal greetings later. "And with any luck, these enemies had some magickal treasures," she says spreading her hands wide to indicate the fallen Hextor clerics. "If everyone would stand aside for a moment, or deal with those goblins, I will find out."
The priestess positions herself in a spot where she can see all three of the downed clerics. She concentrates for a moment, closing her eyes. Her hands wave back and forth across her body as her fingers trace the magickal sigils in the air. There is a trace of pink and golden symbols that hang suspended for a time and then dissipate in a sparkly pop. After a moment she opens her eyes suddenly and, for those looking, her eyes emit a bright golden light. Magickal sparks float about her face as she narrows her gaze, first looking at the cleric with the plate armor. She moves slightly to get a complete view of the fallen man. Moving to the next one, she continues her concentration, stepping around and then over his dead body and moving to the last. She will also use the spell on the fallen dwarf. She will allow her gaze to travel over the goblins as well, as there is time remaining, in case perhaps one of them also carried some treasure.
After nearly 5 minutes of magickal detection, she stops and closes her eyes once more. When she opens them the golden glow has faded and they are their normal brilliant blue. She lets out a sigh of relief and tiredness. "We have success," she says quietly but with a big smile.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Vardra Marcus, PFC:
===
Pulling hard, Vardra swings the right-hand door open and charges forward. A glance at the man on his knees and an arrow protruding from his face confirms that he's no threat presently. Ahead is a small group of goblins; he hears Eri chanting behind him and they all drop to the floor.
Beyond the goblins is the leader in plate mail that they saw previously. Next to him lies the body of the strange pale-skinned dwarf. Vernar stands over the body, bleeding badly from a pair of deep wounds; no doubt that is his blood decorating the priest's sword!
Vardra has but a second to note the presence of Butternut and three strangers further down the ramp. One of the strangers appears to be a Cynalonian soldier, based on his livery. With him are a human and dwarf.
Bellowing his patron's name, Lucyus carves into the priest with his axe, and receives a foot-and-a-half of steel in return for his troubles. Kendell's sword strikes the priest next, and Vardra is not far behind. Even as the priest staggers and begins to fall, Vernar ignores his own injuries and slides his own blade into the man. Vardra is no healer, but he suspects that the priest is dead before he hits the floor.
With the battle done, Vardra sheathes his sword and steps toward Vernar with Lucyus and offers to assist him in sitting down or remaining standing as he prefers. "Medic!" he calls, in hopes of getting priestly healing for the dwarf. Erisciana has the same idea and sends Wimzy over to help.
Lucyus addresses Butternut, asking about her unknown companions. The soldier is introduced as a Sergeant Crandell, who asks about the flag. Lucyus informs him that it has been raised, about which he seems relieved.
Vardra happens to turn his head to look up the ramp just in time to see Erisciana slitting the throat of the wounded man despite Lucyus' instructions to leave him alive for questioning. How will that play out, he wonders. Of course, with a new sergeant present, Lucyus' status as leader might be moot at this point.
Turning away, Vardra moves down the ramp. "Welcome back, Butternut. I see you brought friends; and am glad you did."
"Well met, Sergeant. PFC Vardra Marcus, sir." He salutes the sergeant in the customary manner for the Cynalonian Army.
The new dwarf is introduced next. His weapons and armor seems to indicate that he is a warrior as well. "Good to meet you, Gerett. I'm Vardra Marcus of the Cynalonian Army. Are you a soldier as well?"
The last one to be introduced is the human woman Laurel, who seems a bit shy and quiet. She appears to be wearing a holy symbol, but it is not one he recognizes. "A pleasure to meet you ma'am. My name is Vardra. I don't recall seeing that holy symbol before; who is your patron if I may ask?"
Vardra returns the priestess' gaze, wondering why she seems so capricious with other people's lives. "Your plan was for Kendell and I to close the doors behind them. If we do that, then we're not hidden behind the doors from those already in the room. Sure, if there are five or ten of them, then your spells and arrows will take care of that quick enough. If there are fifty or a hundred, then that's no protection at all. We simply have no way of knowing how many are out there."The priestess looks at the fighter curiously for a moment. She frowns briefly. This one apparently is just like Aralu from her home temple, she thinks. "If the goblins cannot see you while hidden behind these barriers," she makes a wide gesture to indicate the massive doors, "and they are under fire from our archers and my Sleep spell, it is extremely unlikely for any of them to even notice you at first. "
===
Pulling hard, Vardra swings the right-hand door open and charges forward. A glance at the man on his knees and an arrow protruding from his face confirms that he's no threat presently. Ahead is a small group of goblins; he hears Eri chanting behind him and they all drop to the floor.
Beyond the goblins is the leader in plate mail that they saw previously. Next to him lies the body of the strange pale-skinned dwarf. Vernar stands over the body, bleeding badly from a pair of deep wounds; no doubt that is his blood decorating the priest's sword!
Vardra has but a second to note the presence of Butternut and three strangers further down the ramp. One of the strangers appears to be a Cynalonian soldier, based on his livery. With him are a human and dwarf.
Bellowing his patron's name, Lucyus carves into the priest with his axe, and receives a foot-and-a-half of steel in return for his troubles. Kendell's sword strikes the priest next, and Vardra is not far behind. Even as the priest staggers and begins to fall, Vernar ignores his own injuries and slides his own blade into the man. Vardra is no healer, but he suspects that the priest is dead before he hits the floor.
With the battle done, Vardra sheathes his sword and steps toward Vernar with Lucyus and offers to assist him in sitting down or remaining standing as he prefers. "Medic!" he calls, in hopes of getting priestly healing for the dwarf. Erisciana has the same idea and sends Wimzy over to help.
Lucyus addresses Butternut, asking about her unknown companions. The soldier is introduced as a Sergeant Crandell, who asks about the flag. Lucyus informs him that it has been raised, about which he seems relieved.
Vardra happens to turn his head to look up the ramp just in time to see Erisciana slitting the throat of the wounded man despite Lucyus' instructions to leave him alive for questioning. How will that play out, he wonders. Of course, with a new sergeant present, Lucyus' status as leader might be moot at this point.
Turning away, Vardra moves down the ramp. "Welcome back, Butternut. I see you brought friends; and am glad you did."
"Well met, Sergeant. PFC Vardra Marcus, sir." He salutes the sergeant in the customary manner for the Cynalonian Army.
The new dwarf is introduced next. His weapons and armor seems to indicate that he is a warrior as well. "Good to meet you, Gerett. I'm Vardra Marcus of the Cynalonian Army. Are you a soldier as well?"
The last one to be introduced is the human woman Laurel, who seems a bit shy and quiet. She appears to be wearing a holy symbol, but it is not one he recognizes. "A pleasure to meet you ma'am. My name is Vardra. I don't recall seeing that holy symbol before; who is your patron if I may ask?"
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Vernar -
Vernar knows the goblins could spoil the surprise at any time, but it is far too late to turn back now. Something about that dwarf does not sit well with him, and he means to dispatch it immediately.
Several arrows from his companions fail to find a soft spot in this armored foe, so Vernar crouches, daggers firmly in hand, as he prepares a deadly dance. However, from the other direction come the rest of their group. Lucyus draws the attention of the heavily armored adversary as blows are exchanged. Seeing an opening, Vernar slides in his dagger as Vardra delivers a fatal blow from his large sword.
When a moment presents itself, Vernar will look over the slain duergar, seeing if he can determine anything about him. He will also see what weapons or other valuables might be more beneficial to a living dwarf rather than a dead one.
Vernar knows the goblins could spoil the surprise at any time, but it is far too late to turn back now. Something about that dwarf does not sit well with him, and he means to dispatch it immediately.
The duergar never had a chance. Poor fool, Vernar thinks with grim satisfaction. However, his actions have drawn the attention of the human in the plate armor.The goblins come to a sudden halt, seemingly terrified of this man. If any of the goblins spot Vernar, they are too afraid to say so. They freeze in place and Vernar makes his move! Daggers in hand, Vernar glides toward his unsuspecting target. Once close enough, he strikes driving the dagger deep into the back of the duergar and through his heart! The gray dwarf lets out a muffled cry and simply crumbles to the ground!
The cuts are deep as Vernar is a little unsteady on his feet for a moment. Then he spits some blood and smiles a bloody grin, "That all you got? I be skewerin' you next."This gets the immediate attention of the man in plate and he draws his sword! The longsword cuts not once, but twice into Vernar and he is greatly bloodied!
Several arrows from his companions fail to find a soft spot in this armored foe, so Vernar crouches, daggers firmly in hand, as he prepares a deadly dance. However, from the other direction come the rest of their group. Lucyus draws the attention of the heavily armored adversary as blows are exchanged. Seeing an opening, Vernar slides in his dagger as Vardra delivers a fatal blow from his large sword.
"Aye, you as well. We be wonderin' were you lot got off to," Vernar replies as introductions are made and Vernar awaits some much needed healing.Looking about, Lucyus sees that the fight has been won. Several goblins are heard snoring but his eyes are drawn to Vernar, “Good to see alive my friend.” he says as he grips his side in pain.
"We dispatched an ogre on our way up, but there still be a dark skinned elf runnin' 'bout somewhere outside," Vernar warns before everyone gets too celebratory. While one elf is certainly no threat to the sheer number of adventurers and soldiers here, he does not want to risk losing any of them after such a victory.Calling back to the others he lets out a smile as he drops his coif. His blue eyes smiling. “We have won this day!. Let us see to the wounded, take what spoils and information you may. Rejoice for now we may rest!”
When a moment presents itself, Vernar will look over the slain duergar, seeing if he can determine anything about him. He will also see what weapons or other valuables might be more beneficial to a living dwarf rather than a dead one.
"Here I go again on my own..." ~the Bard Whitesnake
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Laurel chuckles at the dwarfs interjection into her private conversation with her cat. Wherever the drow is, it doesn't matter at the moment. Laurel remains defensively at the Sergeants side as they travel the turns of the tunnel, dropping to a stealthy approach as they hear voices ahead. They turn the corner and see goblins approaching and hear the gray dwarf ...what did Gerett name them? Guredar?Gerett wrote:"If I know anything about underground wretches," he interjects, "which I don't...I would suspect them to be cowardly, in which case..yeah, we might lose a couple horses. But one less enemy around, at least. But if I know anything about elves...which I guess I don't...they're supposed to be haughty, arrogant types. So maybe she won't accept losing and will try to deal us another blow. Hard to say. Underground elves always confused me...how does an elf even survive if it can't keep its hair clean?"
Vernar sneaks ahead, motioning to the others of the group to attack the man in plate, while he goes for the gray dwarf. Laurel prepares her holy symbol, thinking to cast a simple bless spell on Vernar, but she's too slow. Before she even can begin the incantation the gray dwarf is on the ground dead. Immediately the man in plate draws his sword and bloodies Vernar! Laurels mind switches into healing mode, preparing to "burn" her bless spell to heal Vernar. --- Gerett, Butternut, and Sergeant Crandell let loose with their ranged weapons but all the missiles either miss or are turned aside by the man's plate mail armor... The doors of Eagles Nest swing open and a group of adventurers rush out. The goblins drop to the floor, as if by magic and another round of ranged attacks are fired at the man in plate mail armor. Only Butternut manages to score a hit on him. The rest of the missiles whiz past the new arrivals. --- Another man in plate armor rushes forward with a cry sinking his battleaxe into the enemy.--- The Hextor priest attacks with his longsword and drives it into Lucyus, ignoring his previous target.--- The enemy in platemail is quickly surrounded and put down.“Quid tu facis ?” the enemy commander demands in a foreign tongue of the approaching goblins. “Redire et inde pugna, obscenaeque canes minimi preti!”The goblins come to a sudden halt, seemingly terrified of this man.
As the battle dies down Laurel stays by the Sergeants side and tells Malfamata, "Can you do a quick survey of the area please?" She then waits for orders.
Crandell wrote:“The flag? Did you rise the danger flag? What's the situation here?”
Lucyus wrote:“Rest easy, Sgt. The good priestess of Ishtar, Eriscana saw to it. We are bloodied and need of rest but we are well. There was an advanced scouting party whom we met in battle and dispatched save one. We retreated and defended the fort, Many of their ranks fell to the trap of the mountain to wallow in the filth and dark, perhaps to die of starvation. What you see before you are all that remains of Chimera and Wyrven Squad. Our Sergeants have both passed on from this life. I expect you have orders? ... There is a follower of Hextor that still lives, though for how long I cannot say. We can question him if you wish?
Laurel watches as the priestess, supposedly Erisciana of Ishtar, positions herself among the fallen and begins tracing magical symbols in the air. She very much wants to watch whatever follows but her attention is drawn to Vernar who is bleeding quite profusely. She excuses herself from the Sergeants side feeling like her skills could be put to better use elsewhere. She might be from a noble house but that doesn't mean she needs to "preside" nor does it excuse her from doing any dirty work. As she makes her way to Vernar she takes in the bloody scene and wonders if the blade might have been poisoned, but alas, she didn't prepare a "detect poison" spell. Not that it would do her much good without an antidote on hand. She kneels by his side and surveys the damage, applying what little skill she has in healing to clean up the wound a bit before magically healing Vernar.Erisciana wrote:This one is dead," she says quickly, indicating the Hextor cleric, his screaming now mercifully ended. "Those goblins however are only slumbering and so they should be dealt with before our boisterous paladin wakes them with his exuberance. And with any luck, these enemies had some magickal treasures," she says spreading her hands wide to indicate the fallen Hextor clerics. "If everyone would stand aside for a moment, or deal with those goblins, I will find out."
Laurel's focus is interrupted as another man approaches her,
The young woman peers up at the man, slightly dazed for a second as her brain switches gears from healing to talking, "Ah...hello." She looks down at the holy symbol she had just been using, presenting it after the fashion of her order. It is a silver amulet shaped like a sitting cat, its tail twitching off to one side and its eyes olive colored gem stones. She seemingly quotes, "I am Laurel, priestess of Felix, the guardian of knowledge, libraries and cats. I was just tending to our wounded...."" she glances back towards Vernar as her voice trails off. Anything else she could say sounds stupid in her mind and she can feel her cheeks turning pink.Vardra wrote: "A pleasure to meet you ma'am. My name is Vardra. I don't recall seeing that holy symbol before; who is your patron if I may ask?"
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Gerett smirks as Vernar dispatches the unsuspecting deep dwarf. "Godsblood..." he says with a smirk in admiration of the move. His smile fades as the human with platemail advances on Vernar and deals two severe blows before he or the others have a chance to close in. "Godsblood..." he repeats, in dismay this time at Vernar's injury. The profanity emerges three more times, this time in frustration as his quarrels skid uselessly off the stone walls and metal plate.
The situation has quickly turned south, and Gerett drops his crossbow to fall into its sling and picks up his halberd. It might fare better against the armor, and more importantly, the enemy would need another target in melee range or he would try to finish off Vernar. As quickly as things turned poorly, however, they swing back in favor of his allies as what he must assume are the other squads rush from the fortification. Guess they're the cavalry, he thinks to himself. Some sort of magic is worked against the greenskins, and three fighters rush the priest and bring him down quickly, if not without injury on their side. One of them yells with rage that reminds him of certain mountain dwarves in battle fury. Gerett himself had preferred to take on more reserved types--the nature of his command required more cunning than passion. But this had made him somewhat of an outlier in the dwarven military, and for pitched combat he could not deny the merit of battle fervor blocking out hesitation. The stone knew Gerett himself second guessed too much--an asset in tactical situations but a liability in heated confrontations like this.
But the fight was done for now--the valor of the humans (and Vernar, who even after the damage he had taken still managed to get a skillful hit in between the armor) had won the day. Finally Gerett could get an idea of who these other squads were and what remained of the original company to continue the mission.
A human woman, dressed more for banqueting than battling, seems to be the source of the goblins' catatonia. A mage of some sort? Has to be, the way she's dressed. Humans bring a lot of frills to the battlefield, but I doubt even they bring entertainers along. The woman makes a comment to another halfling joining the scene that informs him that both the halfling and the human woman are probably religious. Right, I heard most humans are. But maybe these are priests of some sort. Without consulting the others the woman executes the enemy soldier with ruthless efficiency and no remorse. Gerett tilts his head to the side, intrigued. Not the type of attitude he expected based on her physique and dress. Certainly an interesting person--candor and determination were valuable and rare traits among the humans he knew--though he didn't approve of anyone taking such actions without either discussion or orders. Perhaps she was in charge up here, though. He'd wait to see how the others responded before he made any judgment.
Gerett shifts his grip to the bottom of his polearm's haft and lets the axelike head tilt to the ground casually. "This is all a bit messy, huh? Sounds like your and our squads met up with a lot worse than was originally expected. Turning out alright so far I guess. But I doubt we'll get much of a break before we need to move again, before that army gets to Greystone."
Gerett glances over at the human woman, at Crandall, and at the one called Lucyus. His glance goes back to Vardra, who doesn't seem to be in charge but who is at least the one he'e currently talking to. He levels his halberd's axelike head towards a sleeping goblin like a chopping block and says, (directed at no one person in particular) "We don't need any of these, eh?"
He will wait for a nod from at least one of the humans before beginning the task.
The situation has quickly turned south, and Gerett drops his crossbow to fall into its sling and picks up his halberd. It might fare better against the armor, and more importantly, the enemy would need another target in melee range or he would try to finish off Vernar. As quickly as things turned poorly, however, they swing back in favor of his allies as what he must assume are the other squads rush from the fortification. Guess they're the cavalry, he thinks to himself. Some sort of magic is worked against the greenskins, and three fighters rush the priest and bring him down quickly, if not without injury on their side. One of them yells with rage that reminds him of certain mountain dwarves in battle fury. Gerett himself had preferred to take on more reserved types--the nature of his command required more cunning than passion. But this had made him somewhat of an outlier in the dwarven military, and for pitched combat he could not deny the merit of battle fervor blocking out hesitation. The stone knew Gerett himself second guessed too much--an asset in tactical situations but a liability in heated confrontations like this.
But the fight was done for now--the valor of the humans (and Vernar, who even after the damage he had taken still managed to get a skillful hit in between the armor) had won the day. Finally Gerett could get an idea of who these other squads were and what remained of the original company to continue the mission.
A human woman, dressed more for banqueting than battling, seems to be the source of the goblins' catatonia. A mage of some sort? Has to be, the way she's dressed. Humans bring a lot of frills to the battlefield, but I doubt even they bring entertainers along. The woman makes a comment to another halfling joining the scene that informs him that both the halfling and the human woman are probably religious. Right, I heard most humans are. But maybe these are priests of some sort. Without consulting the others the woman executes the enemy soldier with ruthless efficiency and no remorse. Gerett tilts his head to the side, intrigued. Not the type of attitude he expected based on her physique and dress. Certainly an interesting person--candor and determination were valuable and rare traits among the humans he knew--though he didn't approve of anyone taking such actions without either discussion or orders. Perhaps she was in charge up here, though. He'd wait to see how the others responded before he made any judgment.
"Aye. Or I was. Guess I am again. Formerly a sergeant of a vanguard force outside Rockhome. Ambushes and stakeouts more than pitched battles, but when it was needed I could fight in a line or lead in one. Though your lines are likely a foot or so higher than ours were."Vardra wrote:Welcome back, Butternut. I see you brought friends; and am glad you did."
"Well met, Sergeant. PFC Vardra Marcus, sir." He salutes the sergeant in the customary manner for the Cynalonian Army.
The new dwarf is introduced next. His weapons and armor seems to indicate that he is a warrior as well. "Good to meet you, Gerett. I'm Vardra Marcus of the Cynalonian Army. Are you a soldier as well?"
Gerett shifts his grip to the bottom of his polearm's haft and lets the axelike head tilt to the ground casually. "This is all a bit messy, huh? Sounds like your and our squads met up with a lot worse than was originally expected. Turning out alright so far I guess. But I doubt we'll get much of a break before we need to move again, before that army gets to Greystone."
Gerett glances over at the human woman, at Crandall, and at the one called Lucyus. His glance goes back to Vardra, who doesn't seem to be in charge but who is at least the one he'e currently talking to. He levels his halberd's axelike head towards a sleeping goblin like a chopping block and says, (directed at no one person in particular) "We don't need any of these, eh?"
He will wait for a nod from at least one of the humans before beginning the task.
-Michael
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Butternut:
As they ascend the ramp, Butternut hears Gerett talking to Laurel. "Shhhh..." she admonishes the dwarf, turning just enough to give him a displeased look over her shoulder. Bad enough that he clomps along like an elephant; this is not the time for chatter.
Soon they have reached the top and discovered what remains of the invading force. Vernar silently glides up behind the strange dwarf, while she, Gerett, and Crandell take aim at the priest leading those forces.
Suddenly, everything seems to happen very fast. Vernar drops the dwarf quiet effectively, but none of them can pierce the priest's armor. Ignoring the ineffective attacks, the priest slashes Vernar not just once, but twice, drawing sprays of blood both times.
At nearly the same time, large doors open at the top of the ramp and Kendell, Lucyus, and Vardra come racing out, followed closely by the rest of the squad. Erisciana casts a spell, and the five remaining goblins all hit the deck.
Taking advantage of the moment of distraction, Butternut takes aim once again and applies a steady pull to the trigger of her crossbow. This time, her quarrel lodges itself in the priest's leg, though it seems to have precious little effect on him as he turns to meet the charge.
Lucyus, Kendell, and Vardra all carve into the man with their swords, and even the badly-wounded Vernar gets in on the act. All that damage proves to be too much as the priest folds and drops like a rag doll. Not seeing any other opponents to shoot, Butternut shrugs and puts away her crossbow.
Butternut's ears perk up at Lucyus' mention of taking spoils and she moves next to the odd dwarf Vernar killed as he seems to be closest. It doesn't take long to verify that he's dead, so she rifles whatever pockets, pouches, and bags he has for anything of use or value.
There is some discussion of the signal flag, but it has apparently been taken care of. Of course, this late at night, it is unlikely that anyone can see it.
Just then, Erisciana pipes up about checking to see if the enemy had anything magical. Butternut holds out her hands with whatever she found on the dwarf so it can be checked. Meanwhile, Laurel and Wimzy use their patron's gifts to address Vernar's wounds.
Once that commotion dies down, the rest return to greeting one another. The soldier Vardra introduces himself to Laurel after addressing the Crandell and Gerett. Is she blushing, Butternut wonders to herself. Well, this should be interesting. I wonder if the big lug will even notice...
____________________________________________________________________________
For XP, let's put 1000 toward Elementalist (she's still only cast one spell!), and the rest into Ranger.
As they ascend the ramp, Butternut hears Gerett talking to Laurel. "Shhhh..." she admonishes the dwarf, turning just enough to give him a displeased look over her shoulder. Bad enough that he clomps along like an elephant; this is not the time for chatter.
Soon they have reached the top and discovered what remains of the invading force. Vernar silently glides up behind the strange dwarf, while she, Gerett, and Crandell take aim at the priest leading those forces.
Suddenly, everything seems to happen very fast. Vernar drops the dwarf quiet effectively, but none of them can pierce the priest's armor. Ignoring the ineffective attacks, the priest slashes Vernar not just once, but twice, drawing sprays of blood both times.
At nearly the same time, large doors open at the top of the ramp and Kendell, Lucyus, and Vardra come racing out, followed closely by the rest of the squad. Erisciana casts a spell, and the five remaining goblins all hit the deck.
Taking advantage of the moment of distraction, Butternut takes aim once again and applies a steady pull to the trigger of her crossbow. This time, her quarrel lodges itself in the priest's leg, though it seems to have precious little effect on him as he turns to meet the charge.
Lucyus, Kendell, and Vardra all carve into the man with their swords, and even the badly-wounded Vernar gets in on the act. All that damage proves to be too much as the priest folds and drops like a rag doll. Not seeing any other opponents to shoot, Butternut shrugs and puts away her crossbow.
After checking in on Vernar, Lucyus spots Butternut and the newcomers. "Hi Lucyus, these three are what remains of Talon Squad. This is Sergeant Crandell, the dwarven warrior here is Gerett, and the lady hiding in the back is a priestess named Laurel."Lucyus wrote:Looking about, Lucyus sees that the fight has been won. Several goblins are heard snoring but his eyes are drawn to Vernar, “Good to see alive my friend.”he says as he grips his side in pain. He sees Butternut who he gives a nod to. “Who are your friends?”
"Good to see you well, Vardra," Butternut replies with just a hint of a smile.Vardra wrote:Turning away, Vardra moves down the ramp. "Welcome back, Butternut. I see you brought friends; and am glad you did."
Butternut's ears perk up at Lucyus' mention of taking spoils and she moves next to the odd dwarf Vernar killed as he seems to be closest. It doesn't take long to verify that he's dead, so she rifles whatever pockets, pouches, and bags he has for anything of use or value.
There is some discussion of the signal flag, but it has apparently been taken care of. Of course, this late at night, it is unlikely that anyone can see it.
Just then, Erisciana pipes up about checking to see if the enemy had anything magical. Butternut holds out her hands with whatever she found on the dwarf so it can be checked. Meanwhile, Laurel and Wimzy use their patron's gifts to address Vernar's wounds.
Once that commotion dies down, the rest return to greeting one another. The soldier Vardra introduces himself to Laurel after addressing the Crandell and Gerett. Is she blushing, Butternut wonders to herself. Well, this should be interesting. I wonder if the big lug will even notice...
____________________________________________________________________________
For XP, let's put 1000 toward Elementalist (she's still only cast one spell!), and the rest into Ranger.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Lucyus
As Lucyus tells the Sgt. that there is a follower of Hextor still alive he hears a voice say that he is no longer among the living.
Lucyus listens as Vardra makes his introduction to the Sgt, Laurel and Gerret.
Lucyus looks to the Sergeant Crandell, He puts out his hand in greeting in the way of a warriors grip. “I am Lucyus of Hieronous.” Foregoing his surname for the moment, “When was your group, Talon was it, Sent out after us?” he curiously asks.
Erisciana goes through an intricate spell seeing what is indeed about in the sense of things magical. For several moments Lucyus watches and waits.
Once it is apparent what they are looking for, Lucyus will finish searching the body of the Platemail priest for anything of value or order, when he sees the holy symbol of Hextor he will remove it carefully only touching it with the point of a dagger. Once done he will split the symbol in two with his axe.
Once the looting has come to an end, “Sgt, the fort is yours. I would suggest we all take refugee within it’s walls and get some rest and food. It has been a long day.”
As Lucyus tells the Sgt. that there is a follower of Hextor still alive he hears a voice say that he is no longer among the living.
Looking to the priestess, Lucyus looks somewhat surprised that the man in dead. “How?” he asks curiously though his voice shows a sense of calm and a touch of uncaring. “It matters not. It is doubtful that he knew of any plans.”Pointing to the platemail priest, “He probably knew the most keeping the others on a short leash.” He says simply as he takes his axe and cleans it off on the Platemail priest’s cloak and then sheathes it across his back."This one is dead," she says quickly, indicating the Hextor cleric, his screaming now mercifully ended. "Those goblins however are only slumbering and so they should be dealt with before our boisterous paladin wakes them with his exuberance," she says with a wry smile.
“At the ambush Vardra and I were knocked senseless. Thankfully Erisciana saw us safe until we retreated to the fort. It was in part of her quick thinking that got us to where we are.” He says in thanks to the priestess."Aye, you as well. We be wonderin' were you lot got off to," Vernar replies as introductions are made and Vernar awaits some much needed healing.
“An Ogre? That must have been fight with so few. A drow? Surely you jest. They are but legends and myth.” He says having heard of them but never seen of the drow."We dispatched an ogre on our way up, but there still be a dark skinned elf runnin' 'bout somewhere outside," Vernar warns before everyone gets too celebratory. While one elf is certainly no threat to the sheer number of adventurers and soldiers here, he does not want to risk losing any of them after such a victory.
Lucyus listens as Vardra makes his introduction to the Sgt, Laurel and Gerret.
Lucyus looks to the Sergeant Crandell, He puts out his hand in greeting in the way of a warriors grip. “I am Lucyus of Hieronous.” Foregoing his surname for the moment, “When was your group, Talon was it, Sent out after us?” he curiously asks.
“It is Gerett?” he says hold his left hand upon his wound. “Forgive me I am not the best with names.”he says easily as he looks to where the dwarf is pointing. Seeing the sleeping goblins, “No, they are not needed and should be dealt with. Would you care for the honor?” he asks the dwarf simply.Gerett glances over at the human woman, at Crandall, and at the one called Lucyus. His glance goes back to Vardra, who doesn't seem to be in charge but who is at least the one he'e currently talking to. He levels his halberd's axelike head towards a sleeping goblin like a chopping block and says, (directed at no one person in particular) "We don't need any of these, eh?"
Erisciana goes through an intricate spell seeing what is indeed about in the sense of things magical. For several moments Lucyus watches and waits.
Once it is apparent what they are looking for, Lucyus will finish searching the body of the Platemail priest for anything of value or order, when he sees the holy symbol of Hextor he will remove it carefully only touching it with the point of a dagger. Once done he will split the symbol in two with his axe.
Once the looting has come to an end, “Sgt, the fort is yours. I would suggest we all take refugee within it’s walls and get some rest and food. It has been a long day.”
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Kaylessa
Moving down the ramp, Kaylessa ignores the fallen man an sees the battle unfold before her. Vernar is bloodied as Lucyus comes to his aid bellowing a war cry.
Within moments the battle is over as the goblins sleep as their leader’s life blood stains the floor.
Kaylessa watches as the two groups come together, Vernar and Butternut are safe, albeit bloodied and have brought friends.
Stowing her bow she hears slight snoring about her and draws her shortsword, She puts her hair behind her ear as she looks down at the sleeping goblin. She hears Gerett ask, "We don't need any of these, eh?"
“As much as an orc that needs more warts.” She replies to the dwarf a ghost of a smile upon her lips. Lucyus asks if the dwarf would care for the honor and Kaylessa replies, “I will help.” She says simply as she approaches a sleeping goblin and drives her shortsword through it’s neck.
A sudden thought comes to her as he blade is bathed in blood. “That’s how it works!”she exclaims as she happily wipes of the blade of her shortsword and pulls out her spell book. Turning to a page with glyph, runes and scribbles are written. She goes over it in her mind then closes the spellbook and puts it away. “I will have to write that down when she has a moment.
Kaylessa watches as Erisca begins traces magical symbols in the area. She watches with baited breath at the possibilities.
Moving down the ramp, Kaylessa ignores the fallen man an sees the battle unfold before her. Vernar is bloodied as Lucyus comes to his aid bellowing a war cry.
Within moments the battle is over as the goblins sleep as their leader’s life blood stains the floor.
Kaylessa watches as the two groups come together, Vernar and Butternut are safe, albeit bloodied and have brought friends.
Stowing her bow she hears slight snoring about her and draws her shortsword, She puts her hair behind her ear as she looks down at the sleeping goblin. She hears Gerett ask, "We don't need any of these, eh?"
“As much as an orc that needs more warts.” She replies to the dwarf a ghost of a smile upon her lips. Lucyus asks if the dwarf would care for the honor and Kaylessa replies, “I will help.” She says simply as she approaches a sleeping goblin and drives her shortsword through it’s neck.
A sudden thought comes to her as he blade is bathed in blood. “That’s how it works!”she exclaims as she happily wipes of the blade of her shortsword and pulls out her spell book. Turning to a page with glyph, runes and scribbles are written. She goes over it in her mind then closes the spellbook and puts it away. “I will have to write that down when she has a moment.
Kaylessa watches as Erisca begins traces magical symbols in the area. She watches with baited breath at the possibilities.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Erisciana -
Vardra returns the priestess' gaze, wondering why she seems so capricious with other people's lives. "Your plan was for Kendell and I to close the doors behind them. If we do that, then we're not hidden behind the doors from those already in the room. Sure, if there are five or ten of them, then your spells and arrows will take care of that quick enough. If there are fifty or a hundred, then that's no protection at all. We simply have no way of knowing how many are out there."
"There would be four of you there. Lucyus and Ren would intervene in the unlikely event that any of the goblins, harried by arrows and magic, would be aware enough to turn away from their attackers to hit someone they hadn't seen yet. And if there were a hundred goblins remaining, they would either be lined up at our door, which they are not, or most of them on the other side of the ramp and not able to advance all at one time. And that doesn't even take into account having to adapt the plan due to unforeseen circumstances."
-------------------------------------------
Lucyus asks about how the enemy priest died. She was about to mention the arrow in his eye, but the paladin brushes off the question and she can see that he is unperturbed and possibly relieved that the situation was resolved.
After the Detection spell, the goblins are disposed of and the wounded have received healing. Erisciana will address her returning teammates and the new trio. "It is good to see that you are well, comrades," she will say to Vernar and Butternut. "Are there more enemy about?"
To the newcomers she will introduce herself, speaking with an obvious accent. "Greetings and well met. I am Erisciana of the House Iltani. Priestess of Ishtar, Goddess of Love and War." The woman that the newcomers see is slight of build and on the short side. She wears some bits of studded leather armor which upon closer inspection show that the studs are actually in the design of numerous flowering vines and that parts have been dyed blue and others a pinkish hue. A long-handled flanged mace rests in a belt loop. She is only wearing the breastplate and a plaited skirt, leaving the rest of her unarmored and showing the clothes beneath them, a dark blue satin blouse with silver embroidery and light blue breeches which extend just past her knees. She is currently barefoot and also wears a copious amount of silver jewelry, including a pendant with a bright blue crystal. Her hair is dark and very curly and her eyes are bright blue.
The priestess will hand the dagger back to the archer, Flare, as the discussion continues.
Once the looting has come to an end, “Sgt, the fort is yours. I would suggest we all take refugee within it’s walls and get some rest and food. It has been a long day.”
"I think we can all agree, Lucyus. It has been a long day AND a long night. Our spellcasters have yet to recover our spells and we all need a rest." Erisci will head back to the secure area and collect her backpack, cloak and shield. She will then go into one of the barracks rooms and prepare to catch a little more rest.
Vardra returns the priestess' gaze, wondering why she seems so capricious with other people's lives. "Your plan was for Kendell and I to close the doors behind them. If we do that, then we're not hidden behind the doors from those already in the room. Sure, if there are five or ten of them, then your spells and arrows will take care of that quick enough. If there are fifty or a hundred, then that's no protection at all. We simply have no way of knowing how many are out there."
"There would be four of you there. Lucyus and Ren would intervene in the unlikely event that any of the goblins, harried by arrows and magic, would be aware enough to turn away from their attackers to hit someone they hadn't seen yet. And if there were a hundred goblins remaining, they would either be lined up at our door, which they are not, or most of them on the other side of the ramp and not able to advance all at one time. And that doesn't even take into account having to adapt the plan due to unforeseen circumstances."
-------------------------------------------
Lucyus asks about how the enemy priest died. She was about to mention the arrow in his eye, but the paladin brushes off the question and she can see that he is unperturbed and possibly relieved that the situation was resolved.
After the Detection spell, the goblins are disposed of and the wounded have received healing. Erisciana will address her returning teammates and the new trio. "It is good to see that you are well, comrades," she will say to Vernar and Butternut. "Are there more enemy about?"
To the newcomers she will introduce herself, speaking with an obvious accent. "Greetings and well met. I am Erisciana of the House Iltani. Priestess of Ishtar, Goddess of Love and War." The woman that the newcomers see is slight of build and on the short side. She wears some bits of studded leather armor which upon closer inspection show that the studs are actually in the design of numerous flowering vines and that parts have been dyed blue and others a pinkish hue. A long-handled flanged mace rests in a belt loop. She is only wearing the breastplate and a plaited skirt, leaving the rest of her unarmored and showing the clothes beneath them, a dark blue satin blouse with silver embroidery and light blue breeches which extend just past her knees. She is currently barefoot and also wears a copious amount of silver jewelry, including a pendant with a bright blue crystal. Her hair is dark and very curly and her eyes are bright blue.
The priestess will hand the dagger back to the archer, Flare, as the discussion continues.
Once the looting has come to an end, “Sgt, the fort is yours. I would suggest we all take refugee within it’s walls and get some rest and food. It has been a long day.”
"I think we can all agree, Lucyus. It has been a long day AND a long night. Our spellcasters have yet to recover our spells and we all need a rest." Erisci will head back to the secure area and collect her backpack, cloak and shield. She will then go into one of the barracks rooms and prepare to catch a little more rest.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Post Continued:
The enemy vanguard has been defeated and the remains of three squads have been reunited. The majority of the enemy were caught up in the ancient trap and dumped deep within the mountain. Lacking a dwarf if those who survive the terrors down there do reach the dwarven lair they would still have to contend with the Stone Dwarf to escape.
The survivors of Wyvern Squad and Chimera Squad are introduced to Talon Squad. All that's left of this squad is the dwarf Gerett, the Priestess of Felix Laurel and their commander Sergeant Crandell. Introductions are made. Sergeant Crandell asks is the warning flag has been raised.
Directed by Erisciana, Wimzy comes forth to heal Vernar ignoring the Hextorite. The halfling healer sees the new people and will say, “I am Wimzy and I'm here to help!” Those looking see a red headed halfling wearing the typical blue robes of a Priestess of Azrella, the Goddess of Life. Azrellians are very potent healers and fierce opponents of all undead.
Laurel reaches Vernar first and heals some of the damage done to him. Wimzy adds her own heal and Vernar is restored to full health. Noticing that Lucyus is wounded as well, Wimzy heals the paladin as well.
While this is going on, Erisciana invokes a spell that will allow her to detect magic for a short time. She starts with the Hextor priest wearing the plate mail armor. His armor and shield are magical as is the longsword he stabbed Vernar with. All these items have enchantment magic on them.
There are more enchanted items on the man beyond his sword and armor. He has a long bow and and arrows in a quiver. The longbow itself is not magical but some of the arrows are. Three more magic items are found stored on his body. Two are potions, one of which has necromatic magic on it, and the other is an odd looking small black stone.
The gray dwarf has three sources of magic on him. His war hammer, his short sword, and a potion. The potion is located as Butternut searches the gray dwarfs gear. The goblins have no magic on them. Ren rifles the pockets of the goblins looking for coins as they are slain.
Going back towards the Eagle's Nest, Eris quickly looks over the other two men before her spell fades. She notes that one of the men has a magical shield while the other has a magical light crossbow. The effect ends before she can examine either man any closer. The bodies are searched and relieved of their valuables.
The enemy vanguard has been defeated and the remains of three squads have been reunited. The majority of the enemy were caught up in the ancient trap and dumped deep within the mountain. Lacking a dwarf if those who survive the terrors down there do reach the dwarven lair they would still have to contend with the Stone Dwarf to escape.
The survivors of Wyvern Squad and Chimera Squad are introduced to Talon Squad. All that's left of this squad is the dwarf Gerett, the Priestess of Felix Laurel and their commander Sergeant Crandell. Introductions are made. Sergeant Crandell asks is the warning flag has been raised.
“Very Good,” Sergeant Crandell compliments. “I suspect that this units mission was to raise the clear flag so that their main force could advance on Fort Graystone.”Lucyus wrote:“Rest easy, Sgt. The good priestess of Ishtar, Erisciana saw to it,” he says still gripping his side.
“That is unfortunate,” Sergeant Crandell laments. “They were good men.”Lucyus wrote:“We are bloodied and need of rest but we are well. There was an advanced scouting party whom we met in battle and dispatched save one. We retreated and defended the fort, Many of their ranks fell to the trap of the mountain to wallow in the filth and dark, perhaps to die of starvation. What you see before you are all that remains of Chimera and Wyvern Squad. Our Sergeants have both passed on from this life. I expect you have orders?” he says simply.
Lucyus wrote:"There is a follower of Hextor that still lives, though for how long I cannot say. We can question him if you wish?
Erisciana wrote:"This one is dead," she says quickly, indicating the Hextor cleric, his screaming now mercifully ended. "Those goblins however are only slumbering and so they should be dealt with before our boisterous paladin wakes them with his exuberance," she says with a wry smile.
“Yes, I agree,” Sergeant Crandell states. “If they had any information, it was known only to their leader. We neither have the time nor the place to hold prisoners. Dispose of the goblins.”Lucyus wrote:Looking to the priestess, Lucyus looks somewhat surprised that the man in dead. “How?” he asks curiously though his voice shows a sense of calm and a touch of uncaring. “It matters not. It is doubtful that he knew of any plans.” Pointing to the plate mail priest, “He probably knew the most keeping the others on a short leash.” He says simply as he takes his axe and cleans it off on the plate mail priest’s cloak and then sheathes it across his back.
“Private,” Sergeant Crandell states as he returns the salute with mild surprised. “How did you end up with this unit?”Vardra wrote:"Well met, Sergeant. PFC Vardra Marcus, sir." He salutes the sergeant in the customary manner for the Cynalonian Army.
Directed by Erisciana, Wimzy comes forth to heal Vernar ignoring the Hextorite. The halfling healer sees the new people and will say, “I am Wimzy and I'm here to help!” Those looking see a red headed halfling wearing the typical blue robes of a Priestess of Azrella, the Goddess of Life. Azrellians are very potent healers and fierce opponents of all undead.
Laurel reaches Vernar first and heals some of the damage done to him. Wimzy adds her own heal and Vernar is restored to full health. Noticing that Lucyus is wounded as well, Wimzy heals the paladin as well.
While this is going on, Erisciana invokes a spell that will allow her to detect magic for a short time. She starts with the Hextor priest wearing the plate mail armor. His armor and shield are magical as is the longsword he stabbed Vernar with. All these items have enchantment magic on them.
There are more enchanted items on the man beyond his sword and armor. He has a long bow and and arrows in a quiver. The longbow itself is not magical but some of the arrows are. Three more magic items are found stored on his body. Two are potions, one of which has necromatic magic on it, and the other is an odd looking small black stone.
The gray dwarf has three sources of magic on him. His war hammer, his short sword, and a potion. The potion is located as Butternut searches the gray dwarfs gear. The goblins have no magic on them. Ren rifles the pockets of the goblins looking for coins as they are slain.
Going back towards the Eagle's Nest, Eris quickly looks over the other two men before her spell fades. She notes that one of the men has a magical shield while the other has a magical light crossbow. The effect ends before she can examine either man any closer. The bodies are searched and relieved of their valuables.
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
While all of this is going on, Laurel sends her cat off to explore.
“We raised the warning flag, but could see no response from Eagle's Nest. We rode back down and started to follow the enemy as they marched towards Fort Graystone. There are hundreds, if not thousands of troops among the army. We also saw some giants and ogres. They had at least twenty catapults with them, being pushed by the giants. I decided to try and reach Eagle's Nest and raise the warning flag to alert the fort. So we trailed the enemy army at a safe distance. Unfortunately, they had the same idea and sent this unit to take the Eagle's Nest. While trailing behind them we came across Butternut and Vernar. We took out an ogre they left behind to guard the entrance as well as a drow. The dark elf wandered off and we rushed up the ramp. The rest you know.”
“In the meantime, let us retire for the evening,” Sergeant Crandell continues. “I'm sure we all could use some sleep.”
With the enemy bodies searched for gear and wealth, the group retires into the Eagle's Nest. The door is barred once more for protection.
As the group starts to filter into the living area, they spot Sann Silverbeard, another dwarf, who is petting Laurel's cat. The cat purrs contentedly.
“Where'd this kitty come from?” Sann wonders. “He seems friendly.”
“This is the dwarf we are looking for,” Mal meows to Laurel. “He knows a lot.”
“Okay, listen up,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “We should be safe for what remains of this night. Spellcasters do what you need to do to regain your spells. We'll need a couple of guards for the rest of the night. Any volunteers?”
“Come the morning, we will be able to see the pass better from the observation deck. Then we can determine if the enemy has reached Fort Graystone or not. We'll make further plans at that point.”
“Anything else to report?” Sergeant Crandell asks.
“The dwarf we seek should be around here somewhere...” the cat notes as it trots off, consciously avoiding any pools of blood on the ground. “Gods, these people are messy!”Laurel wrote:As the battle dies down Laurel stays by the Sergeants side and tells Malfamata, "Can you do a quick survey of the area please?" She then waits for orders.
“Negative,” Sergeant Crandell states. “Talon Squad was dispatched to man Falcon's Watch, an outpost two days distant from Fort Graystone. We reached the caravan stop at that location without incident and camped for the night. Next morning I took Gerett and Laurel to Falcon's Watch. It's just an observation place high up in the hills, not a fortification like Eagle's Nest here. By the time we reached the Watch, the enemy army was already down below. They took out the rest of Talon Squad and continued on to Fort Graystone.”Lucyus wrote:Lucyus looks to the Sergeant Crandell, He puts out his hand in greeting in the way of a warriors grip. “I am Lucyus of Heironeous.” Foregoing his surname for the moment, “When was your group, Talon was it, sent out after us?” he curiously asks.
“We raised the warning flag, but could see no response from Eagle's Nest. We rode back down and started to follow the enemy as they marched towards Fort Graystone. There are hundreds, if not thousands of troops among the army. We also saw some giants and ogres. They had at least twenty catapults with them, being pushed by the giants. I decided to try and reach Eagle's Nest and raise the warning flag to alert the fort. So we trailed the enemy army at a safe distance. Unfortunately, they had the same idea and sent this unit to take the Eagle's Nest. While trailing behind them we came across Butternut and Vernar. We took out an ogre they left behind to guard the entrance as well as a drow. The dark elf wandered off and we rushed up the ramp. The rest you know.”
“In the meantime, let us retire for the evening,” Sergeant Crandell continues. “I'm sure we all could use some sleep.”
With the enemy bodies searched for gear and wealth, the group retires into the Eagle's Nest. The door is barred once more for protection.
As the group starts to filter into the living area, they spot Sann Silverbeard, another dwarf, who is petting Laurel's cat. The cat purrs contentedly.
“Where'd this kitty come from?” Sann wonders. “He seems friendly.”
“This is the dwarf we are looking for,” Mal meows to Laurel. “He knows a lot.”
“Okay, listen up,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “We should be safe for what remains of this night. Spellcasters do what you need to do to regain your spells. We'll need a couple of guards for the rest of the night. Any volunteers?”
“Come the morning, we will be able to see the pass better from the observation deck. Then we can determine if the enemy has reached Fort Graystone or not. We'll make further plans at that point.”
“Anything else to report?” Sergeant Crandell asks.
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
GM Notes:
Lucyus and Vernar were healed back to full health.
Here's a rundown on the gear.
High Priest:
Magic items – Plate mail, shield, longsword, 10 flight arrows, 2 potions and 1 blob of black stone.
Other items - Normal supplies, longbow, normal flight arrows, 110 gold.
Gray Dwarf:
Magic items – War Hammer, Short Sword, potion.
Other items – Normal supplies, dwarven sized chain mail, shield, 12 gold, an azurite gem and a spinel gem.
Other Priests:
Magic items – Shield and light crossbow.
Other items – Normal supplies, 2 daggers, 2 suits of chain mail armor, 2 longswords, 10 crossbow bolts, a vial of liquid, 18 gold.
Goblins – misc gear and 3 gold, 15 silver, and 8 copper.
Erisciana's spell gave out before she could examine the lesser priests any closer. They may or may not have other enchanted items that were concealed from her sight.
Now what?
Lucyus and Vernar were healed back to full health.
Here's a rundown on the gear.
High Priest:
Magic items – Plate mail, shield, longsword, 10 flight arrows, 2 potions and 1 blob of black stone.
Other items - Normal supplies, longbow, normal flight arrows, 110 gold.
Gray Dwarf:
Magic items – War Hammer, Short Sword, potion.
Other items – Normal supplies, dwarven sized chain mail, shield, 12 gold, an azurite gem and a spinel gem.
Other Priests:
Magic items – Shield and light crossbow.
Other items – Normal supplies, 2 daggers, 2 suits of chain mail armor, 2 longswords, 10 crossbow bolts, a vial of liquid, 18 gold.
Goblins – misc gear and 3 gold, 15 silver, and 8 copper.
Erisciana's spell gave out before she could examine the lesser priests any closer. They may or may not have other enchanted items that were concealed from her sight.
Now what?
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Lucyus
While this is going on, Erisciana invokes a spell that will allow her to detect magic for a short time. She starts with the Hextor priest wearing the plate mail armor. His armor and shield are magical as is the longsword he stabbed Vernar with. All these items have enchantment magic on them.
Lucyus will remove the platemail priests gear and puts it in a pile. With whatever gold is found he puts that away for the moment.
Sgt wrote
“Do you know of any other ways out of this fort?”he asks Sergeant Crandel.
Lucyus makes ready himself for bed. He will remove his armor and padding and clean it thoroughly. He will next clean his axe and shield. Only wearing his breeches at this point, Lucyus will make ready to go to bed.
As Sergeant asks if there is anything else to report, “There was talk of a chamber or access point over there.” He says pointing to the wall where the warrior priestess was working.
“In the way of spoils, I believe it may be best to make our group more formidable. What is necessary over personal want so that the team is stronger as a whole. If anyone feels differently please say so. While the point is fairly mute as we do not know the origins of the magic goods, we will need a system to move forward.” He says evenly looking to the others.
“It is possible that they still may. Two-thirds of their force lies within the stone corridors beneath our feet. We found our way out within a few days, How long it will take them to find their freedom I cannot say. But it is something to be mindful of.” He says back to the Sgt.“Very Good,” Sergeant Crandell compliments. “I suspect that this units mission was to raise the clear flag so that their main force could advance on Fort Graystone.”
“We did what we could for their bodies, yet there are things down there that will undo what we did. I just hope they find rest. Vernar and myself have seen to the groups direction and safety with the aid of Erisicana.”“That is unfortunate,” Sergeant Crandell laments. “They were good men.”
Lucyus feels the warmth of Wimzy’s magic. Lifting up his chainmail, he can see the wound mending, he looks to the follower of Azrella, “I thank you for your healing magic, Wimzy.” He says as he drops his chainmail back into place.Laurel reaches Vernar first and heals some of the damage done to him. Wimzy adds her own heal and Vernar is restored to full health. Noticing that Lucyus is wounded as well, Wimzy heals the paladin as well.
While this is going on, Erisciana invokes a spell that will allow her to detect magic for a short time. She starts with the Hextor priest wearing the plate mail armor. His armor and shield are magical as is the longsword he stabbed Vernar with. All these items have enchantment magic on them.
Lucyus will remove the platemail priests gear and puts it in a pile. With whatever gold is found he puts that away for the moment.
Sgt wrote
“So it is safe to assume that the enemy will know of what happened here? That would give us a day or two not to be here when reinforcements come.” He says simply.We took out an ogre they left behind to guard the entrance as well as a drow. The dark elf wandered off and we rushed up the ramp. The rest you know.”
“In the meantime, let us retire for the evening,” Sergeant Crandell continues. “I'm sure we all could use some sleep.”
“I need to rest and to Heironous to replenish my spells.” Lucyus says evenly as he drops the looted gear to the ground in the officers quarters.“Okay, listen up,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “We should be safe for what remains of this night. Spellcasters do what you need to do to regain your spells. We'll need a couple of guards for the rest of the night. Any volunteers?”
“Do you know of any other ways out of this fort?”he asks Sergeant Crandel.
Lucyus makes ready himself for bed. He will remove his armor and padding and clean it thoroughly. He will next clean his axe and shield. Only wearing his breeches at this point, Lucyus will make ready to go to bed.
As Sergeant asks if there is anything else to report, “There was talk of a chamber or access point over there.” He says pointing to the wall where the warrior priestess was working.
“In the way of spoils, I believe it may be best to make our group more formidable. What is necessary over personal want so that the team is stronger as a whole. If anyone feels differently please say so. While the point is fairly mute as we do not know the origins of the magic goods, we will need a system to move forward.” He says evenly looking to the others.
Last edited by Lucyus on Sat Jul 13, 2019 2:28 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Kaylessa
Helping the others with the goblins Kaylessa cleans off her shortswords on the rags about the goblins or the arrow pierced priests’s tunic or cloak.
Upon seeing Gerett, Kaylessa will grab her waterskin and take a drink. She has not met many a dwarf, only Vernar but at least she will greet him civil. “Good day good dwarf, I am Kaylessa, her green eyes hidden behind her black hair. Care for a drink?” she asks offering her wineskin of water.
Kaylessa will sit down as the others begin getting ready for bed. She slowly and methodically writing out the thoughts in her mind. A smile begins to play about her lips as she writing the incantation in her spell book of her new spell. She writes the Knock spell into her spellbook and begins memorizing it twice.
If and when Sorvanni gives her the spellbook, Kaylessa will memorize read magicx2 and magic missile. Once done Kaylessa will take the spellbook and cast read magic and try to unravel some of the secrets within.
Helping the others with the goblins Kaylessa cleans off her shortswords on the rags about the goblins or the arrow pierced priests’s tunic or cloak.
“Perhaps we can put the bodies on the trap and send them to the darkness below.” She says calmly as she looks to the Sgt putting a stray bit of hair behind her ear. “It would send them a message that their leaders are no more. Surely it would break them further then they already are.” She says openly looking to Lucyus and Vernar.“Yes, I agree,” Sergeant Crandell states. “If they had any information, it was known only to their leader. We neither have the time nor the place to hold prisoners. Dispose of the goblins.”
Why would you leave the remainder of your men and only take but a few. Kaylessa wonders to herself. Neither Gerett nor Laurel look to be the quiet types.“Negative,” Sergeant Crandell states. “Talon Squad was dispatched to man Falcon's Watch, an outpost two days distant from Fort Graystone. We reached the caravan stop at that location without incident and camped for the night. Next morning I took Gerett and Laurel to Falcon's Watch. It's just an observation place high up in the hills, not a fortification like Eagle's Nest here. By the time we reached the Watch, the enemy army was already down below. They took out the rest of Talon Squad and continued on to Fort Graystone.”
“A litter at some point.” She says with a wryly grin. “He is a a companion to our new companions.”Kaylessa says as she places her gear on the ground and sits down. Taking some nuts from her pack, she partakes of the snack as the others come walking in she sees the Human female and Kaylessa rises to her feet. “Well met,”she says offering her hand in an elfin way.”I am Kaylessa of the Elfholds, You are a priestess are you not? She says looking at the woman’s garb and holy symbol, “Or a fellow mage?” she asks curious.As the group starts to filter into the living area, they spot Sann Silverbeard, another dwarf, who is petting Laurel's cat. The cat purrs contentedly.
“Where'd this kitty come from?” Sann wonders. “He seems friendly.”
“This is the dwarf we are looking for,” Mal meows to Laurel. “He knows a lot.”
Upon seeing Gerett, Kaylessa will grab her waterskin and take a drink. She has not met many a dwarf, only Vernar but at least she will greet him civil. “Good day good dwarf, I am Kaylessa, her green eyes hidden behind her black hair. Care for a drink?” she asks offering her wineskin of water.
“I can keep watch, It will give me time to study my spells and perhaps uncover new ones.” She says evenly as she looks over at Sorvanni. “I would like to take a look at the pages of the spell book we acquired.”she says simply to the other mage.“Okay, listen up,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “We should be safe for what remains of this night. Spellcasters do what you need to do to regain your spells. We'll need a couple of guards for the rest of the night. Any volunteers?”
Kaylessa will sit down as the others begin getting ready for bed. She slowly and methodically writing out the thoughts in her mind. A smile begins to play about her lips as she writing the incantation in her spell book of her new spell. She writes the Knock spell into her spellbook and begins memorizing it twice.
If and when Sorvanni gives her the spellbook, Kaylessa will memorize read magicx2 and magic missile. Once done Kaylessa will take the spellbook and cast read magic and try to unravel some of the secrets within.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Vardra Marcus, PFC:
Lucyus expresses little concern that Eri executed the wounded priest against his direct orders. Vardra had always heard that paladins were very focused on discipline and order, moreso even than the rest of the military, but perhaps that reputation is overstated. Sergeant Cradell lets it go as well, saying that the priest likely didn't know anything of value. It does seem that "adventuring groups" tend to run by a very different set of rules than the military; he will watch how the sergeant handles that reality and try to learn from it.
A thought occurs to him. "We met a dwarven researcher in the tunnels below, and he said the dwarven ruins down there are part of what he called Bollo's Shield. Apparently there is also a dwarven fort further up the pass named Bollo's Spear. Do either of those names mean anything to you, Gerett?"
Hearing a shout of excitement from Kaylessa, Vardra turns and peers curiously. She digs out some writing materials and begins scribing. Must be a mage thing...
Many speak up regarding the need for food and rest, and the sergeant agrees. Kaylessa volunteers for watch. "I can take part of the night as well, if you want to split the shift, Kaylessa. I got a bit of sleep earlier on. That could allow us each a couple of hours." Once the decision is made, Vardra will get himself a bit of food. Lucyus also brings up the topic of dividing up the spoils from the battle. Vardra is a bit too tired to really care strongly, but will see how the sergeant handles it before getting any rest.
"So there's an enemy army on the march? We had heard no word of it," Vardra says, "only seen the detachment that came up the hill."Crandell wrote:“Very Good,” Sergeant Crandell compliments. “I suspect that this units mission was to raise the clear flag so that their main force could advance on Fort Graystone.”
Vardra listens with interest to the sergeant's story. It seems the situation in the area is far more critical than they had realized. If the enemy is moving on the fort directly, then this is likely a major offensive. Lucyus points out that the dark elf could report in to the rest of the army with what occurred here. That could certainly spell trouble.Crandell wrote:“Negative,” Sergeant Crandell states. “Talon Squad was dispatched to man Falcon's Watch, an outpost two days distant from Fort Graystone. We reached the caravan stop at that location without incident and camped for the night. Next morning I took Gerett and Laurel to Falcon's Watch. It's just an observation place high up in the hills, not a fortification like Eagle's Nest here. By the time we reached the Watch, the enemy army was already down below. They took out the rest of Talon Squad and continued on to Fort Graystone.”
“We raised the warning flag, but could see no response from Eagle's Nest. We rode back down and started to follow the enemy as they marched towards Fort Graystone. There are hundreds, if not thousands of troops among the army. We also saw some giants and ogres. They had at least twenty catapults with them, being pushed by the giants. I decided to try and reach Eagle's Nest and raise the warning flag to alert the fort. So we trailed the enemy army at a safe distance. Unfortunately, they had the same idea and sent this unit to take the Eagle's Nest. While trailing behind them we came across Butternut and Vernar. We took out an ogre they left behind to guard the entrance as well as a drow. The dark elf wandered off and we rushed up the ramp. The rest you know.”
Lucyus expresses little concern that Eri executed the wounded priest against his direct orders. Vardra had always heard that paladins were very focused on discipline and order, moreso even than the rest of the military, but perhaps that reputation is overstated. Sergeant Cradell lets it go as well, saying that the priest likely didn't know anything of value. It does seem that "adventuring groups" tend to run by a very different set of rules than the military; he will watch how the sergeant handles that reality and try to learn from it.
Hearing Vernar's tale, Vardra shifts his gaze to their newly-returned dwarf and halfling. "The five of you took down an ogre, eh? I hear tell those are nasty creatures. You did well to take it down with no casualties." It seems the dark elf wandered off and hasn't been seen since. Perhaps it didn't want to tangle with those who killed her ogre companion.Lucyus wrote:“An Ogre? That must have been fight with so few. A drow? Surely you jest. They are but legends and myth.” He says having heard of them but never seen of the drow.
"Volunteered, sir," Vardra replies. "I wanted to get some field experience as well as some leadership training under Sergeant Traken's guidance."Crandell wrote:“Private,” Sergeant Crandell states as he returns the salute with mild surprised. “How did you end up with this unit?”
Vardra chuckles at the dwarf's comment. "Sounds like you lead a dwarven unit, then. How did you end up part of Talon Squad?"Gerett wrote:"Aye. Or I was. Guess I am again. Formerly a sergeant of a vanguard force outside Rockhome. Ambushes and stakeouts more than pitched battles, but when it was needed I could fight in a line or lead in one. Though your lines are likely a foot or so higher than ours were."
A thought occurs to him. "We met a dwarven researcher in the tunnels below, and he said the dwarven ruins down there are part of what he called Bollo's Shield. Apparently there is also a dwarven fort further up the pass named Bollo's Spear. Do either of those names mean anything to you, Gerett?"
"That's correct, Gerett," Vardra says with a nod. "Our assignment was simply to climb up here to the lookout and fly the appropriate flag. Didn't know anything about the trap or expect to be fighting so many foes to get here."Gerett wrote:Gerett shifts his grip to the bottom of his polearm's haft and lets the axelike head tilt to the ground casually. "This is all a bit messy, huh? Sounds like your and our squads met up with a lot worse than was originally expected. Turning out alright so far I guess. But I doubt we'll get much of a break before we need to move again, before that army gets to Greystone."
Vardra looks closely at Laurel's holy symbol, a stylized cat. She seems a bit shy or hesitant in speaking. "Felix, eh? Good to know. Thank you for sharing, Laurel, and for helping our friend Vernar. He's a good man."Laurel wrote:The young woman peers up at the man, slightly dazed for a second as her brain switches gears from healing to talking, "Ah...hello." She looks down at the holy symbol she had just been using, presenting it after the fashion of her order. It is a silver amulet shaped like a sitting cat, its tail twitching off to one side and its eyes olive colored gem stones. She seemingly quotes, "I am Laurel, priestess of Felix, the guardian of knowledge, libraries and cats. I was just tending to our wounded...."" she glances back towards Vernar as her voice trails off. Anything else she could say sounds stupid in her mind and she can feel her cheeks turning pink.
Hearing a shout of excitement from Kaylessa, Vardra turns and peers curiously. She digs out some writing materials and begins scribing. Must be a mage thing...
Many speak up regarding the need for food and rest, and the sergeant agrees. Kaylessa volunteers for watch. "I can take part of the night as well, if you want to split the shift, Kaylessa. I got a bit of sleep earlier on. That could allow us each a couple of hours." Once the decision is made, Vardra will get himself a bit of food. Lucyus also brings up the topic of dividing up the spoils from the battle. Vardra is a bit too tired to really care strongly, but will see how the sergeant handles it before getting any rest.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Erisciana -
This new Sergeant, Crandall, confirms her choice to kill the fatally wounded Hextorite. Vardra seems a little confused or surprised, the priestess cannot tell which, that neither Lucyus nor Crandall disagreed with that decision. She gives the fighter a knowing look, but says nothing and turns away. There is another task at hand.
As the golden glow emanates from the priestess' eyes, she can feel the magick wash over her, giving a new level of sight to her senses. She pauses for a moment, letting herself get accustomed to the additional awareness. Looking down at the silver cuffs encircling her ankles she sees they once more emit a golden glow. There is alteration magick there, but she once more does not discern any divination magick. She frowns briefly but moves on to checking the fallen cleric leader.
More golden sparkles dance about her eyes and they intensify as she views the fallen Hextorite. "The armor. Shield. His sword. They are all enchantment magick," she says in general as she surveys the man. Erisci places her bare foot under his shoulder and nudges him to his side. "Some of these arrows are enchanted." Something else catches her attention. "In his belt pouch."
Lucyus had been checking the enemy priest and opens the pouch. There are two vials and a stone inside among other items. "The vials contain magick potions." She concentrates a little and the golden sparkles turn dark in the air. "One is necromantic." She squints for a moment, then shakes her head. "I am not sure what sort of magick the other contains. That black stone is also magickal."
Moving on to the oddly colored dwarf, she sees that Butternut has been checking the dwarf's belongings. "That vial contains a magick potion." She looks again, but none of the other items Butternut has found hold spellpower. However, there are other items. "This warhammer and also the sword are empowered."
The priestess can feel the enhanced sense starting to fade. The goblins have no magick. "That man has a crossbow. The other has a shield. That is all that I can see." The spell effects fade and she stops and closes her eyes. When she opens them again, the sparkles and glow has faded away. Letting out a brief sigh, she says quietly, "We have success."
The group disposes of the goblins efficiently and there is some talk on what to do with the Hextorites. "I am not certain that my Detection spell ascertained everything on the last two men. I can activate the spell again after I rest and recover to see if anything else may be ensorcelled."
The Sergeant from Talon squad explains the situation that has been going on. it is dire indeed as an enemy army is on the march. They overwhelmed the group at Falcon's Watch. Crandall indicates that this is another observation post, similar to this one, but without much of a defensive position. The enemy's goal apparently was to attack at night and eliminate any defenses at the observation posts, make sure to fly flags indicating all was clear, and move on to attack Fort Graystone.
Crandall suggest there are hundreds if not thousands of enemy, including catapults, along with ogres and giants. That is a formidable force and one that could siege the fort into submission or even capture it outright from assault. Erisciana's mind starts to turn as she considers the strategic situation.
“So it is safe to assume that the enemy will know of what happened here? That would give us a day or two not to be here when reinforcements come,” Lucyus says simply.
"It's possible, if the drow spirited herself back to the army. But from the sounds of it, they have passed us by already. It will take time for it to reach the army and they will be at Graystone before they could return here, so there is no real need, unless they have some more rapid means of transport."
As the Sergeant asks if there is anything else to report, “There was talk of a chamber or access point over there.” He says pointing to the wall where the warrior priestess was working.
"We found a secret door, but have not yet determined a means to open it. We were making some progress before the final battle here commenced."
“In the way of spoils, I believe it may be best to make our group more formidable. What is necessary over personal want so that the team is stronger as a whole. If anyone feels differently please say so. While the point is fairly moot as we do not know the origins of the magic goods, we will need a system to move forward,” Lucyus says evenly looking to the others.
"Agreed. Although different people have different ideas on what is fair and equitable. We need to decide on a means to distribute gains." The priestess worries whether they can come to any consensus, based on the tribulations they had in discussing leadership. She doesn't even want to think about that just now.
Returning to the secure area, she will take her backpack, cloak and other items to a bed and set everything down nearby. Removing her leather breastplate and skirt, she will quickly settle into bed and get some more rest. It sounds like they will have a lot to plan for in the morning.
This new Sergeant, Crandall, confirms her choice to kill the fatally wounded Hextorite. Vardra seems a little confused or surprised, the priestess cannot tell which, that neither Lucyus nor Crandall disagreed with that decision. She gives the fighter a knowing look, but says nothing and turns away. There is another task at hand.
As the golden glow emanates from the priestess' eyes, she can feel the magick wash over her, giving a new level of sight to her senses. She pauses for a moment, letting herself get accustomed to the additional awareness. Looking down at the silver cuffs encircling her ankles she sees they once more emit a golden glow. There is alteration magick there, but she once more does not discern any divination magick. She frowns briefly but moves on to checking the fallen cleric leader.
More golden sparkles dance about her eyes and they intensify as she views the fallen Hextorite. "The armor. Shield. His sword. They are all enchantment magick," she says in general as she surveys the man. Erisci places her bare foot under his shoulder and nudges him to his side. "Some of these arrows are enchanted." Something else catches her attention. "In his belt pouch."
Lucyus had been checking the enemy priest and opens the pouch. There are two vials and a stone inside among other items. "The vials contain magick potions." She concentrates a little and the golden sparkles turn dark in the air. "One is necromantic." She squints for a moment, then shakes her head. "I am not sure what sort of magick the other contains. That black stone is also magickal."
Moving on to the oddly colored dwarf, she sees that Butternut has been checking the dwarf's belongings. "That vial contains a magick potion." She looks again, but none of the other items Butternut has found hold spellpower. However, there are other items. "This warhammer and also the sword are empowered."
The priestess can feel the enhanced sense starting to fade. The goblins have no magick. "That man has a crossbow. The other has a shield. That is all that I can see." The spell effects fade and she stops and closes her eyes. When she opens them again, the sparkles and glow has faded away. Letting out a brief sigh, she says quietly, "We have success."
The group disposes of the goblins efficiently and there is some talk on what to do with the Hextorites. "I am not certain that my Detection spell ascertained everything on the last two men. I can activate the spell again after I rest and recover to see if anything else may be ensorcelled."
The Sergeant from Talon squad explains the situation that has been going on. it is dire indeed as an enemy army is on the march. They overwhelmed the group at Falcon's Watch. Crandall indicates that this is another observation post, similar to this one, but without much of a defensive position. The enemy's goal apparently was to attack at night and eliminate any defenses at the observation posts, make sure to fly flags indicating all was clear, and move on to attack Fort Graystone.
Crandall suggest there are hundreds if not thousands of enemy, including catapults, along with ogres and giants. That is a formidable force and one that could siege the fort into submission or even capture it outright from assault. Erisciana's mind starts to turn as she considers the strategic situation.
“So it is safe to assume that the enemy will know of what happened here? That would give us a day or two not to be here when reinforcements come,” Lucyus says simply.
"It's possible, if the drow spirited herself back to the army. But from the sounds of it, they have passed us by already. It will take time for it to reach the army and they will be at Graystone before they could return here, so there is no real need, unless they have some more rapid means of transport."
As the Sergeant asks if there is anything else to report, “There was talk of a chamber or access point over there.” He says pointing to the wall where the warrior priestess was working.
"We found a secret door, but have not yet determined a means to open it. We were making some progress before the final battle here commenced."
“In the way of spoils, I believe it may be best to make our group more formidable. What is necessary over personal want so that the team is stronger as a whole. If anyone feels differently please say so. While the point is fairly moot as we do not know the origins of the magic goods, we will need a system to move forward,” Lucyus says evenly looking to the others.
"Agreed. Although different people have different ideas on what is fair and equitable. We need to decide on a means to distribute gains." The priestess worries whether they can come to any consensus, based on the tribulations they had in discussing leadership. She doesn't even want to think about that just now.
Returning to the secure area, she will take her backpack, cloak and other items to a bed and set everything down nearby. Removing her leather breastplate and skirt, she will quickly settle into bed and get some more rest. It sounds like they will have a lot to plan for in the morning.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
"Honor's a stretch", Gerett says with a shrug as he looks down at the strand of drool coming from his target's mouth. "But no trouble at all." He impales the goblin and moves on to the next.Lucyus wrote:“It is Gerett?” he says hold his left hand upon his wound. “Forgive me I am not the best with names.”he says easily as he looks to where the dwarf is pointing. Seeing the sleeping goblins, “No, they are not needed and should be dealt with. Would you care for the honor?” he asks the dwarf simply.
Gerett and the elf together dispatch the goblins quickly. He doesn't introduce himself at this time. There's a lot of people in the room right now, and much to be discussed, he considers. She heard my name; if she has any questions I'll answer.Kaylessa wrote:“As much as an orc that needs more warts.” She replies to the dwarf a ghost of a smile upon her lips. Lucyus asks if the dwarf would care for the honor and Kaylessa replies, “I will help.” She says simply as she approaches a sleeping goblin and drives her shortsword through it’s neck.
As he takes a second look at the priestess, he realizes that she is, in fact, wearing armor. His eyes had been drawn to her bare feet and he had missed the other details. So she was not utterly unequipped for the mission. She was still just as enigmatic as he would expect a priestess of love to be, however. At least the way humans seemed to define love, with its unsaid implications and flights of fancy and severely lacking in parental guidance and legal contracts. I wonder if her feet look like halfling's feet on the underside, he mused.Erisciana wrote:"Greetings and well met. I am Erisciana of the House Iltani. Priestess of Ishtar, Goddess of Love and War."
"I'll certainly take one. Most others have had it worse than me thus far." When the number and timing of watches has been decided Gerett will either get ready to sleep or find a comfortable place to keep vigil. Either way he will look for something to eat, if anything is available.Crandell wrote:“Okay, listen up,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “We should be safe for what remains of this night. Spellcasters do what you need to do to regain your spells. We'll need a couple of guards for the rest of the night. Any volunteers?”
Gerett pays attention to whatever discussion is had regarding loot, as he thinks it's a worthwhile conversation and he wants to be sure to know the rules later. But for now he stays out of it, as none of the magical gear specifically appeals to him and thus far he doesn't feel like he's spent enough time with the group at large to stake any sort of claims.Lucyus wrote:“In the way of spoils, I believe it may be best to make our group more formidable. What is necessary over personal want so that the team is stronger as a whole. If anyone feels differently please say so. While the point is fairly mute as we do not know the origins of the magic goods, we will need a system to move forward.”
Gerett has heard of enmities between dwarves and elves, but it was never particularly relevant to him, and this woman was no stranger than the rest of this assortment. In any case, this seemed to be quite a friendly group. "Thank ye," he offered as he took a swig and handed back the skin. "That were a long hike up the slope."Kaylessa wrote:“Good day good dwarf, I am Kaylessa, her green eyes hidden behind her black hair. Care for a drink?”
"I was surprised myself how quite it went down. We have some really good marksmen among our number."Vardra wrote:"The five of you took down an ogre, eh? I hear tell those are nasty creatures. You did well to take it down with no casualties."
"Politics, really. A new lord decides my unit is no longer needed, and that somehow since we were an expeditionary force, that our very existence was a threat to his isolationist philosophy. I don't give two yams for all that nonsense, but he seemed to think we were a symbol of a previous lord whom he'd rather folk forget. I think my men got new assignments, but as the captain I had to leave or face entanglements for which I have no taste. This was the first job that opened up. Damn shame what happened with Talon Squad. But I think it's good we're here. These three broken squads might just have the intel and the skillset needed to turn this nasty business around."Vardra wrote:"Sounds like you lead a dwarven unit, then. How did you end up part of Talon Squad?"
A thought occurs to him. "We met a dwarven researcher in the tunnels below, and he said the dwarven ruins down there are part of what he called Bollo's Shield. Apparently there is also a dwarven fort further up the pass named Bollo's Spear. Do either of those names mean anything to you, Gerett?"
Gerett pondered Vardra's second question. His unit wortked mainly in the hills and forests, but perhaps those locations did ring some bell. He reached back into his mind to recall if he had heard the names mentioned anywhere before this mission.
-Michael
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Butternut:
Kaylessa gives an excited shout and scrambles for her spell-book. A smile spreads across Butternut's face: clearly the girl has figured out how to cast a new spell. Good for her!
As Erisciana peruses the fallen enemies with her glowing eyes, she points out those items that she sees as being enchanted. It turns out that several of the items Butternut removed from the odd dwarf and held out for inspection are imbued with magic. Noting that Lucyus appears to be putting all of the items from the head priest into a pile, she will add the items from the dead dwarf as well.
Lucyus and Vardra both seem a bit impressed that the smaller group - both in number and stature - were able to kill the ogre. Gerett credits it to their archery skills, which isn't far wrong. "The sergeant's plan was pretty effective, too. That monster looked like a hedgehog before it got half-way across the clearing."
Lucyus and Crandell both declare that now is the time to rest, and Butternut is more than happy to hear it. Though she had gotten a few hours before the fight with the goblin scouting party and the chase after the half-orc, it was nowhere near sufficient -- though of course she will eat a quick supper first. She notes Gerett looking for food, so she joins him in the search and quickly locates the table in the main room laden with all manner of edibles. Few can locate food better than a halfling!
The topic of splitting up the loot is raised, though Butternut is really more interested in sleep. "The loot can wait for morning, to my way of thinking; sleep and spells are much more pressing matters." If they insist on doing it now, she will stay up long enough to see how that plays out.
Retreating to the quarters where the other women seem to be settling in for the night, Butternut finishes chewing the last bits of her supper and prepares for bed. "By the way, any of you interested in sharing spell-books come morning?" Either way, she will collapse into one of the beds and be asleep within minutes.
Kaylessa gives an excited shout and scrambles for her spell-book. A smile spreads across Butternut's face: clearly the girl has figured out how to cast a new spell. Good for her!
As Erisciana peruses the fallen enemies with her glowing eyes, she points out those items that she sees as being enchanted. It turns out that several of the items Butternut removed from the odd dwarf and held out for inspection are imbued with magic. Noting that Lucyus appears to be putting all of the items from the head priest into a pile, she will add the items from the dead dwarf as well.
Kaylessa's idea strikes a chord with Butternut. "I like that idea, Kay! It would be good to get their stink out of here. Sound good to you, Sarge?" she asks, turning to Crandell. If he agrees, Butternut will help with executing Kaylessa's plan.Kaylessa wrote:“Perhaps we can put the bodies on the trap and send them to the darkness below.” She says calmly as she looks to the Sgt putting a stray bit of hair behind her ear. “It would send them a message that their leaders are no more. Surely it would break them further then they already are.” She says openly looking to Lucyus and Vernar.
"Thank you, Eri," Butternut acknowledges with a nod. "There was a drow, which had taken to looting our mounts, but it disappeared when we killed the ogre."Erisciana wrote:After the Detection spell, the goblins are disposed of and the wounded have received healing. Erisciana will address her returning teammates and the new trio. "It is good to see that you are well, comrades," she will say to Vernar and Butternut. "Are there more enemy about?"
Lucyus and Vardra both seem a bit impressed that the smaller group - both in number and stature - were able to kill the ogre. Gerett credits it to their archery skills, which isn't far wrong. "The sergeant's plan was pretty effective, too. That monster looked like a hedgehog before it got half-way across the clearing."
Lucyus and Crandell both declare that now is the time to rest, and Butternut is more than happy to hear it. Though she had gotten a few hours before the fight with the goblin scouting party and the chase after the half-orc, it was nowhere near sufficient -- though of course she will eat a quick supper first. She notes Gerett looking for food, so she joins him in the search and quickly locates the table in the main room laden with all manner of edibles. Few can locate food better than a halfling!
The topic of splitting up the loot is raised, though Butternut is really more interested in sleep. "The loot can wait for morning, to my way of thinking; sleep and spells are much more pressing matters." If they insist on doing it now, she will stay up long enough to see how that plays out.
Retreating to the quarters where the other women seem to be settling in for the night, Butternut finishes chewing the last bits of her supper and prepares for bed. "By the way, any of you interested in sharing spell-books come morning?" Either way, she will collapse into one of the beds and be asleep within minutes.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Malfamata wrote:“The dwarf we seek should be around here somewhere...” the cat notes as it trots off, consciously avoiding any pools of blood on the ground. “Gods, these people are messy!”
Laurel makes her way to her feet and wipes her hands on her thighs. She's done all she can for Vernar at this point, "Yeah, he's a good dwarf....and ...horse mate. My cat likes him. I think." Luckily the dark haired womans stammerings are interrupted by a red-headed halfling wearing the typical blue robes of a Priestess of Azrella, the Goddess of Life.Vardra wrote:Vardra looks closely at Laurel's holy symbol, a stylized cat. She seems a bit shy or hesitant in speaking. "Felix, eh? Good to know. Thank you for sharing, Laurel, and for helping our friend Vernar. He's a good man."
Laurel breathes a sigh of relief and gestures at Vernar. "I've done all I can, it's not much...but by your robes I'm sure you're better equipped for this." She watches carefully as Wimzy completes her spell, taking a few mental notes on the structure of her incantation and her bedside manner. Once she feels her duty to Vernar has been successfully passed off she makes her way inside the keep in the hopes of tracking down Malf.Wimzy wrote:“I am Wimzy and I'm here to help!”
On her way she's intercepted by another barefoot woman "Greetings and well met. I am Erisciana of the House Iltani. Priestess of Ishtar, Goddess of Love and War." Laurel is initially caught off guard. She thinks that she might recognize the accent from another noble family in the Crossroads, but she's never heard of Ishtar or of a Goddess of Love and War. Yet, here this woman is claiming to be such so it must be. Laurel blushes and gives a semi-formal bow and recites, "Laurel, priestess of Felix. Guardian of knowledge, libraries and cats." the young woman pauses for a second looking at the womans blue silk clothes, armor and delicate build. Love and war, most interesting. She stutters out "Um, you're most impressive." her cheeks turn red, that was probably not the proper thing to say. She stammers, "excuse me, I must find my cat." which was probably also not the proper thing to say but with that she dashes inside the keep. Unfortunately she'll have to see her again. Hopefully she forgets.
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Sann wrote:“Where'd this kitty come from?” Sann wonders. “He seems friendly.”
Laurel grins inwardly to herself at their comments and Malfs posturing. He can be sycophantic when he wants to be.Kaylessa wrote:“A litter at some point.” She says with a wryly grin. “He is a a companion to our new companions.”
Malfamata wrote:“This is the dwarf we are looking for,” Mal meows to Laurel. “He knows a lot.”
Laurel blushes, taken back a bit by the womans forward manner. She looks down at her dirt-stained red-trimmed surcoat. It doesn't exactly scream mage, but it also doesn't really look like typical priest garb either. But from what she's seen of the other priests in this group atypical is to be expected. The young woman takes the elfs hand in the least awkward way she can think of and offers a slight bow before presenting her holy symbol: a silver cat with olive-colored stones for eyes. "Laurel, priestess of Felix, guardian of knowledge, libraries, and cats." She gestures to the tortoishell cat purring in Sanns lap on the last word. "Malfamata." She raises an eyebrow at Malf, indicating that she heard him, "It's lovely to meet you Kaylessa, and you are?" She then turns to Sann, offering a short bow.Kaylessa wrote:Kaylessa rises to her feet. “Well met,”she says offering her hand in an elfin way.”I am Kaylessa of the Elfholds, You are a priestess are you not? She says looking at the woman’s garb and holy symbol, “Or a fellow mage?” she asks curious.
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A few people speak up: Gerett, Butternut and some others.Sergeant Crandell wrote:“Okay, listen up, We should be safe for what remains of this night. Spellcasters do what you need to do to regain your spells. We'll need a couple of guards for the rest of the night. Any volunteers?"
Sergeant Crandell wrote:"Come the morning, we will be able to see the pass better from the observation deck. Then we can determine if the enemy has reached Fort Graystone or not. We'll make further plans at that point.”
Lucyus wrote: “There was talk of a chamber or access point over there.”
Laurel wanders over to the area that Lucyus gestured to and looks at the doorway and sconces in the walls. She pulls out her holy symbol and traces its familiar curves out of habit as she paces the length of the wall for a minute looking for any clues, tugging at the sconces because that's always what the adventurer does in the stories. She is somewhat suprised when they actually move. After a thorough investigation she prepares her holy symbol to work a "thought capture" spell. She'd always dreamed of going through old abandoned ruins and digging up old memories which would then lead to finding old books lost for eons. This probably wouldn't be nearly as romantic as that. If she was lucky she might be able to find out what Chimera and Wyvern squads ate for supper the previous day if it was forgettable enough.Erisciana wrote:"We found a secret door, but have not yet determined a means to open it. We were making some progress before the final battle here commenced."
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Erisciana -
Erisci greets Butternut and Vernar. "Thank you, Eri," Butternut acknowledges with a nod. "There was a drow, which had taken to looting our mounts, but it disappeared when we killed the ogre."
"A drow, you say? Interesting. Hopefully we did not lose anything important. We need to stay aware of a possible ambush when we depart."
The priestess then meets the two newcomers with Sergeant Crandell. The dwarf doesn't really respond at all. Maybe that's normal for their kind. Vernar was the first dwarf that Erisci had met personally, so she didn't have much experience with them at all. He did seem slightly pre-occupied while looking at her. Perhaps he was admiring her jewels, simple though they were for one from Zakhara.
On her way she's intercepted by another barefoot woman "Greetings and well met. I am Erisciana of the House Iltani. Priestess of Ishtar, Goddess of Love and War." Laurel is initially caught off guard. She thinks that she might recognize the accent from another noble family in the Crossroads, but she's never heard of Ishtar or of a Goddess of Love and War. Yet, here this woman is claiming to be such so it must be. Laurel blushes and gives a semi-formal bow and recites, "Laurel, priestess of Felix. Guardian of knowledge, libraries and cats." The young woman pauses for a second looking at the woman's blue silk clothes, armor and delicate build. Love and war, most interesting.
"Well met. I have never heard of this patron of yours. I would be interested to learn more," she pauses for a moment. "After, of course, we have a chance to finish our interrupted rest."
She stutters out "Um, you're most impressive." Her cheeks turn red, that was probably not the proper thing to say. She stammers, "Excuse me, I must find my cat." Which was probably also not the proper thing to say but with that she dashes inside the keep. Unfortunately she'll have to see her again. Hopefully she forgets.
Erisci smiles at the unexpected compliment. "Why, thank you." Before she can say more, the priestess of Felix scampers off to look for... her cat? Erisci watches her run off to the defensible area of Eagle's Nest. The priestess chuckles a moment and follows more slowly. The day has been draining enough to rush any more tonight. She will pad into the main room, collect her backpack, cloak and another items and then transfer everything to a room to rest.
Retreating to the quarters where the other women seem to be settling in for the night, Butternut finishes chewing the last bits of her supper and prepares for bed. "By the way, any of you interested in sharing spell-books come morning?" Either way, she will collapse into one of the beds and be asleep within minutes.
"Certainly," Erisci will reply. "Expanding the knowledge of the group can only help us in the long run."
The priestess will rest as needed and eventually rise to meet the day. She will use a Detect Magic ability to check the possessions of the two clerics that she did not have a chance to fully review earlier. Erisci will then do her morning ritual to her goddess, Ishtar. The goddess must be pleased with her servant, as she was blessed with not only additional spells, but also more powerful spells.
After that is complete, she will check on the available spellbooks that may be shared, including the one from the half-orc they killed. She will try to read this book first to see what is inside and possibly copy and learn for herself.
Erisci greets Butternut and Vernar. "Thank you, Eri," Butternut acknowledges with a nod. "There was a drow, which had taken to looting our mounts, but it disappeared when we killed the ogre."
"A drow, you say? Interesting. Hopefully we did not lose anything important. We need to stay aware of a possible ambush when we depart."
The priestess then meets the two newcomers with Sergeant Crandell. The dwarf doesn't really respond at all. Maybe that's normal for their kind. Vernar was the first dwarf that Erisci had met personally, so she didn't have much experience with them at all. He did seem slightly pre-occupied while looking at her. Perhaps he was admiring her jewels, simple though they were for one from Zakhara.
On her way she's intercepted by another barefoot woman "Greetings and well met. I am Erisciana of the House Iltani. Priestess of Ishtar, Goddess of Love and War." Laurel is initially caught off guard. She thinks that she might recognize the accent from another noble family in the Crossroads, but she's never heard of Ishtar or of a Goddess of Love and War. Yet, here this woman is claiming to be such so it must be. Laurel blushes and gives a semi-formal bow and recites, "Laurel, priestess of Felix. Guardian of knowledge, libraries and cats." The young woman pauses for a second looking at the woman's blue silk clothes, armor and delicate build. Love and war, most interesting.
"Well met. I have never heard of this patron of yours. I would be interested to learn more," she pauses for a moment. "After, of course, we have a chance to finish our interrupted rest."
She stutters out "Um, you're most impressive." Her cheeks turn red, that was probably not the proper thing to say. She stammers, "Excuse me, I must find my cat." Which was probably also not the proper thing to say but with that she dashes inside the keep. Unfortunately she'll have to see her again. Hopefully she forgets.
Erisci smiles at the unexpected compliment. "Why, thank you." Before she can say more, the priestess of Felix scampers off to look for... her cat? Erisci watches her run off to the defensible area of Eagle's Nest. The priestess chuckles a moment and follows more slowly. The day has been draining enough to rush any more tonight. She will pad into the main room, collect her backpack, cloak and another items and then transfer everything to a room to rest.
Retreating to the quarters where the other women seem to be settling in for the night, Butternut finishes chewing the last bits of her supper and prepares for bed. "By the way, any of you interested in sharing spell-books come morning?" Either way, she will collapse into one of the beds and be asleep within minutes.
"Certainly," Erisci will reply. "Expanding the knowledge of the group can only help us in the long run."
The priestess will rest as needed and eventually rise to meet the day. She will use a Detect Magic ability to check the possessions of the two clerics that she did not have a chance to fully review earlier. Erisci will then do her morning ritual to her goddess, Ishtar. The goddess must be pleased with her servant, as she was blessed with not only additional spells, but also more powerful spells.
After that is complete, she will check on the available spellbooks that may be shared, including the one from the half-orc they killed. She will try to read this book first to see what is inside and possibly copy and learn for herself.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Vernar -
Vernar finds himself obtaining healing from not one, but two clerics. "Not sure what all the fuss be 'bout," he says. "Jus' a bit o' blood is all," but then he looks down, combined with the adrenaline wearing off, and he realizes how badly that sword cut him.
He turns to Vardra, clasping the other man's wrist, "Good t' see you again."
It seems like Erisciana has found quite a bit of magic among the enemies. Butternut suggests putting of the division of treasure until the morning, and after eyeing the duergar's magic sword a moment, Vernar is satisfied with waiting. It may not be up to them anyway, considering there is now a sergeant in charge once more. For all Vernar knows, the whole pile could become the property of the army, although it would make little sense considering their contributions. Still, Vernar refuses to underestimate humans.
Vernar finds himself obtaining healing from not one, but two clerics. "Not sure what all the fuss be 'bout," he says. "Jus' a bit o' blood is all," but then he looks down, combined with the adrenaline wearing off, and he realizes how badly that sword cut him.
The first of the healing closes the worst of the wounds, invigorating Vernar, who smiles at Laurel at her horse mate comment, "Well, I appreciated not havin' t' walk so far, so my thanks be t' you."Vardra looks closely at Laurel's holy symbol, a stylized cat. She seems a bit shy or hesitant in speaking. "Felix, eh? Good to know. Thank you for sharing, Laurel, and for helping our friend Vernar. He's a good man."
Laurel makes her way to her feet and wipes her hands on her thighs. She's done all she can for Vernar at this point, "Yeah, he's a good dwarf....and ...horse mate. My cat likes him. I think."
He turns to Vardra, clasping the other man's wrist, "Good t' see you again."
"Oh no frettin' Laurel, you did jus' fine," Vernar smiles warmly and reassuredly at her. He then beams when Wimzy steps forward and heals all of his wounds, "Many thanks t' you! I can now take out the rest o' this army wherever it be lurkin' 'bout!"“I am Wimzy and I'm here to help!”
Laurel breathes a sigh of relief and gestures at Vernar. "I've done all I can, it's not much...but by your robes I'm sure you're better equipped for this."
Having not been here for most of the others' battle, he doesn't know exactly what they faced or endured. However, leaving goblin corpses around to stink up everything doesn't sit well with him either, so he simply nods at Kaylessa's suggestion.“Perhaps we can put the bodies on the trap and send them to the darkness below.” She says calmly as she looks to the Sgt putting a stray bit of hair behind her ear. “It would send them a message that their leaders are no more. Surely it would break them further then they already are.” She says openly looking to Lucyus and Vernar.
It seems like Erisciana has found quite a bit of magic among the enemies. Butternut suggests putting of the division of treasure until the morning, and after eyeing the duergar's magic sword a moment, Vernar is satisfied with waiting. It may not be up to them anyway, considering there is now a sergeant in charge once more. For all Vernar knows, the whole pile could become the property of the army, although it would make little sense considering their contributions. Still, Vernar refuses to underestimate humans.
"I could use a bit o' sleep, but can surely stand a watch this night," Vernar offers, willing to fit in wherever is needed since he does not have to worry about spells.“Okay, listen up,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “We should be safe for what remains of this night. Spellcasters do what you need to do to regain your spells. We'll need a couple of guards for the rest of the night. Any volunteers?”
"Here I go again on my own..." ~the Bard Whitesnake
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Kendell:
By the time the fog has lifted from Kendell's mind, the gates have been opened and the others are rushing to attack! Kendell picks himself up and joins the festivities! A man in plate mail armor ends up being the target and he goes down under an onslaught of blades.
“Is that it?” Kendell asks not really sure what is going on around him.
Taking a better look around, Kendell can see that sneaky dwarf and the squash halfling have returned.
“Squash!” Kendell calls out. “You made it back! We thought we lost you!”
But they are not alone, for there is yet another squad leader, a human female and yet another dwarf. Introductions are made, but Kendell misses it most of it. A new squad leader is here and he seems to take charge, not that Kendell minds.
“Howdy, ma'am,” Kendell drawls in a country accent to the lady with the cat. She must be the Cat Lady “The name's Kendell.”
Kendell is a very tall human, 6'5”, with black hair, eyes and beard. He wears chain mail armor and carries a long sword and shield.
The dwarf is a different matter. He too has a companion that Kendell has to study for a moment to figure out what it is. “Is that a weasel?” Guess this new dwarf is the Weasel Dwarf.
The downed foes are striped of their belongings and the Leather Priestess says that some are magical. Kendell helps carry them back to the base.
Kendell will stand guard and will patrol the area between the gates and the common area. He needs to keep moving to stay awake.
By the time the fog has lifted from Kendell's mind, the gates have been opened and the others are rushing to attack! Kendell picks himself up and joins the festivities! A man in plate mail armor ends up being the target and he goes down under an onslaught of blades.
“Is that it?” Kendell asks not really sure what is going on around him.
Taking a better look around, Kendell can see that sneaky dwarf and the squash halfling have returned.
“Squash!” Kendell calls out. “You made it back! We thought we lost you!”
But they are not alone, for there is yet another squad leader, a human female and yet another dwarf. Introductions are made, but Kendell misses it most of it. A new squad leader is here and he seems to take charge, not that Kendell minds.
“Howdy, ma'am,” Kendell drawls in a country accent to the lady with the cat. She must be the Cat Lady “The name's Kendell.”
Kendell is a very tall human, 6'5”, with black hair, eyes and beard. He wears chain mail armor and carries a long sword and shield.
The dwarf is a different matter. He too has a companion that Kendell has to study for a moment to figure out what it is. “Is that a weasel?” Guess this new dwarf is the Weasel Dwarf.
The downed foes are striped of their belongings and the Leather Priestess says that some are magical. Kendell helps carry them back to the base.
“I can stay awake a bit longer,” Kendell offers. “But then I'll need a fair bit of shut eye.”New Boss wrote:“Okay, listen up,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “We should be safe for what remains of this night. Spellcasters do what you need to do to regain your spells. We'll need a couple of guards for the rest of the night. Any volunteers?”
Kendell will stand guard and will patrol the area between the gates and the common area. He needs to keep moving to stay awake.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Sorvani:
Sorvani trails behind the others as they charge out into the ramp. It's all over with before Sorvani could even do anything.
“At least its over and we can get some rest,” Sorvani notes.
There are others in the background, the familiar faces of Butternut and Vernar, but three news with them. It seems that they are what remains of Talon Squad and their commander, a Sergeant Crandell. With them is a human priestess with a cat and a dwarf with a small forest creature.
“Sorvani”, he will say when introductions are made. “Mage and swordsman.”
Before long we are back inside the Eagle's Nest and the gates closed and barred once more. At least we'll be safe for the night.
Sorvani will grab his gear and set up his bedroll in one of the barracks and try to finish off his interrupted sleep. Since there are two rooms, he presumes that the girls will use one and the guys the other.
Sorvani trails behind the others as they charge out into the ramp. It's all over with before Sorvani could even do anything.
“At least its over and we can get some rest,” Sorvani notes.
There are others in the background, the familiar faces of Butternut and Vernar, but three news with them. It seems that they are what remains of Talon Squad and their commander, a Sergeant Crandell. With them is a human priestess with a cat and a dwarf with a small forest creature.
“Sorvani”, he will say when introductions are made. “Mage and swordsman.”
Before long we are back inside the Eagle's Nest and the gates closed and barred once more. At least we'll be safe for the night.
“Here you go,” Sorvani says as he digs out the spellbook recovered from the half-orc.Kaylessa wrote:“I can keep watch, It will give me time to study my spells and perhaps uncover new ones.” She says evenly as she looks over at Sorvani. “I would like to take a look at the pages of the spell book we acquired.” she says simply to the other mage.
Butternut wrote:Retreating to the quarters where the other women seem to be settling in for the night, Butternut finishes chewing the last bits of her supper and prepares for bed. "By the way, any of you interested in sharing spell-books come morning?" Either way, she will collapse into one of the beds and be asleep within minutes.
“Fine by me,” Sorvani adds as he digs through his bag once more and produces his own spell book. “Might as well take a look at it while your up, Kaylessa. I'll check out the others after I get up.”Erisciana wrote:"Certainly," Erisci will reply. "Expanding the knowledge of the group can only help us in the long run."
Sorvani will grab his gear and set up his bedroll in one of the barracks and try to finish off his interrupted sleep. Since there are two rooms, he presumes that the girls will use one and the guys the other.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Kaylessa
Back in the relative safety of the fort, Kaylessa finishes her snack of nuts and Sorvani hands her the spell book she requested.
Kaylessa follows the others into the back room where the other ladies make ready for their sleep. They speak of sharing spells.
Seeing Kendell walk a path to stay awake, Kaylessa will ask, “Will talking keep you awake?”
(Assuming the doors will be closed and barred)
“Your welcome.” She says simply as she takes the wineskin back and takes a swig. “It is a short run when humanoids are at your heels.” She says simply taking another sip and then capping it. “Where do you hail from?” she asks curiously attempting to get to know the dwarf.Gerett has heard of enmities between dwarves and elves, but it was never particularly relevant to him, and this woman was no stranger than the rest of this assortment. In any case, this seemed to be quite a friendly group. "Thank ye," he offered as he took a swig and handed back the skin. "That were a long hike up the slope."
Kaylessa gives the halfling a slight smirk. She will let the Sgt. decide before she moves forward with the goblin dumping.Kaylessa's idea strikes a chord with Butternut. "I like that idea, Kay! It would be good to get their stink out of here. Sound good to you, Sarge?" she asks, turning to Crandell. If he agrees, Butternut will help with executing Kaylessa's plan.
Back in the relative safety of the fort, Kaylessa finishes her snack of nuts and Sorvani hands her the spell book she requested.
“Thank you, I will return it when I am done.” Kaylessa says looking down at the spellbook then back to the mage.“Here you go,” Sorvani says as he digs out the spellbook recovered from the half-orc.
Kaylessa follows the others into the back room where the other ladies make ready for their sleep. They speak of sharing spells.
“You are welcome to read my spell book once I am finished recording Knock and hopefully studying new spells.”she says evenly. Rest well. I will see you in the morning.” Kaylessa says evenly as she finds a table in the common area and begins studying her new spells. Once done she will cast read magic and try to unravel the halforcs spellbook then sorvani’s. Once done she will return both books to their owner and gather more arrows for her shortbow.Butternut wrote:Retreating to the quarters where the other women seem to be settling in for the night, Butternut finishes chewing the last bits of her supper and prepares for bed. "By the way, any of you interested in sharing spell-books come morning?" Either way, she will collapse into one of the beds and be asleep within minutes.
Erisciana wrote:"Certainly," Erisci will reply. "Expanding the knowledge of the group can only help us in the long run."
“Fine by me,” Sorvani adds as he digs through his bag once more and produces his own spell book. “Might as well take a look at it while your up, Kaylessa. I'll check out the others after I get up.”
Seeing Kendell walk a path to stay awake, Kaylessa will ask, “Will talking keep you awake?”
(Assuming the doors will be closed and barred)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Vardra Marcus, PFC:
Using a spell of some kind, Erisciana determines that a number of the enemies' items are magically enhanced. While they don't seem to have had much money on them, it is still a significant amount of treasure. Chain mail isn't quite as good as the splint mail armor he has now, but the magical plate mail would be a notable improvement. Likewise, an enchanted shield would be a step up from his current shield. Without knowing what the potions or black stone do, there's no way to know if they would be beneficial. And while there are several ensorcelled weapons, the arrows might be the most useful choice.
Sergeant Crandell describes their encounter with the enemy army moving this way. From his description, they passed the trail up the hill earlier this evening. The foreign priestess suspects that they will reach Fort Graystone under cover of darkness, which may be possible depending on how much those siege engines slow them down. "Moving those catapults may be slow-going, even for giants. If the main army gets well ahead of them, it might be possible to damage or destroy the catapults, which could reduce the enemy's ability to take the fort."
When asked about the ogre, Gerett credits their marksmanship, while Butternut also gives high marks to Sergeant Crandell's tactics. Vardra gets a chuckle out of her description of the arrow-attired ogre. "Skill and tactics is a tough combination to beat. Still, congratulations seem to be in order."
Gerett explains that he ran afoul of some nasty dwarven politics, and that led him to leave Rockhome. Joining the army's new adventurer corps was just an opportunity that popped up at the right time. "Well, then their loss is our gain, it would seem."
Erisciana mentions the secret door that was found, and that they haven't yet succeeded in opening it. "It would be good to know where that leads, if we can puzzle out the trick to opening it." Vardra notes that the cat priestess Laurel has joined Ren in investigating the indicated area. Cats have uncanny senses, so perhaps she'll find something the others missed.
There is talk of splitting up the magical and other gear taken from the enemy, though Butternut suggests that they deal with it in the morning. Since Eri's spell didn't last long enough to complete the search for enchanted items, that makes a lot of sense. Vardra will wait to see what the sergeant decides.
Vardra is thankful when a couple more people volunteer for guard duty. That should make the shifts pleasantly short. He will talk to the other volunteers and work out an agreeable schedule for guard duty. Once that's done, he sees that the ladies appear to be clustering in the quarters on one side of the hall, so he joins Sorvani in the room on the other side. Selecting a bed, he removes his armor and stows it and his other gear underneath.
When the time for his shift comes, Vardra quietly straps on his sword and returns to the main hall. He periodically checks both the ramp and the area around the secret door. Otherwise, he spends most of his shift eating from the bounty laid out before the battle. Having gone a couple of days with very little to eat, he finds that he has a powerful appetite as his body tries to make up for what it missed previously.
"Indeed it is, Kendell", Vardra says, giving the large warrior a slap on the back. "We've won!"Kendell wrote:“Is that it?” Kendell asks not really sure what is going on around him.
"And you, my friend," Vardra replies, returning the gesture. "You appear to have benefited greatly from the priestess' ministrations."Vernar wrote:He turns to Vardra, clasping the other man's wrist, "Good t' see you again."
'Horse mate'. It takes Vardra a moment to figure out what Laurel meant by that, and by time he does she has moved away. Vardra shrugs and turns to see what else is happening in this fortified overlook.Laurel wrote:Laurel makes her way to her feet and wipes her hands on her thighs. She's done all she can for Vernar at this point, "Yeah, he's a good dwarf....and ...horse mate. My cat likes him. I think." Luckily the dark haired woman's stammerings are interrupted by a red-headed halfling wearing the typical blue robes of a Priestess of Azrella, the Goddess of Life.
Using a spell of some kind, Erisciana determines that a number of the enemies' items are magically enhanced. While they don't seem to have had much money on them, it is still a significant amount of treasure. Chain mail isn't quite as good as the splint mail armor he has now, but the magical plate mail would be a notable improvement. Likewise, an enchanted shield would be a step up from his current shield. Without knowing what the potions or black stone do, there's no way to know if they would be beneficial. And while there are several ensorcelled weapons, the arrows might be the most useful choice.
Sergeant Crandell describes their encounter with the enemy army moving this way. From his description, they passed the trail up the hill earlier this evening. The foreign priestess suspects that they will reach Fort Graystone under cover of darkness, which may be possible depending on how much those siege engines slow them down. "Moving those catapults may be slow-going, even for giants. If the main army gets well ahead of them, it might be possible to damage or destroy the catapults, which could reduce the enemy's ability to take the fort."
When asked about the ogre, Gerett credits their marksmanship, while Butternut also gives high marks to Sergeant Crandell's tactics. Vardra gets a chuckle out of her description of the arrow-attired ogre. "Skill and tactics is a tough combination to beat. Still, congratulations seem to be in order."
Gerett explains that he ran afoul of some nasty dwarven politics, and that led him to leave Rockhome. Joining the army's new adventurer corps was just an opportunity that popped up at the right time. "Well, then their loss is our gain, it would seem."
Erisciana mentions the secret door that was found, and that they haven't yet succeeded in opening it. "It would be good to know where that leads, if we can puzzle out the trick to opening it." Vardra notes that the cat priestess Laurel has joined Ren in investigating the indicated area. Cats have uncanny senses, so perhaps she'll find something the others missed.
There is talk of splitting up the magical and other gear taken from the enemy, though Butternut suggests that they deal with it in the morning. Since Eri's spell didn't last long enough to complete the search for enchanted items, that makes a lot of sense. Vardra will wait to see what the sergeant decides.
Vardra is thankful when a couple more people volunteer for guard duty. That should make the shifts pleasantly short. He will talk to the other volunteers and work out an agreeable schedule for guard duty. Once that's done, he sees that the ladies appear to be clustering in the quarters on one side of the hall, so he joins Sorvani in the room on the other side. Selecting a bed, he removes his armor and stows it and his other gear underneath.
When the time for his shift comes, Vardra quietly straps on his sword and returns to the main hall. He periodically checks both the ramp and the area around the secret door. Otherwise, he spends most of his shift eating from the bounty laid out before the battle. Having gone a couple of days with very little to eat, he finds that he has a powerful appetite as his body tries to make up for what it missed previously.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Kaylessa
Kaylessa will pull out the items that she took from the Half orc mage and put them so that Erisciana can look them over when she sees fit.
During her shift on guard duty, Kaylessa will take her portions of dry food back for safe keeping so that the halfling and human fighter don’t eat them all out of house and home.
A thought comes to Kaylessa as Erisciana goes to look for magics in weapons and equipment. “We still have the items from the Half orcs if you wish to check those as well.”The mage says evenly to the priestess. “Vernar, if there was anything from your fallen foe, perhaps you would like that checked as well.”It seems like Erisciana has found quite a bit of magic among the enemies. Butternut suggests putting of the division of treasure until the morning, and after eyeing the duergar's magic sword a moment, Vernar is satisfied with waiting. It may not be up to them anyway, considering there is now a sergeant in charge once more. For all Vernar knows, the whole pile could become the property of the army, although it would make little sense considering their contributions. Still, Vernar refuses to underestimate humans.
Kaylessa will pull out the items that she took from the Half orc mage and put them so that Erisciana can look them over when she sees fit.
During her shift on guard duty, Kaylessa will take her portions of dry food back for safe keeping so that the halfling and human fighter don’t eat them all out of house and home.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Butternut:
As they prepare for resting during what is left of the night, Kaylessa and Erisciana both agree to sharing spell-books. There is also the half-orc's spell-book. Butternut will have to ask Kaylessa about that one in the morning. Butternut pulls out her grimoire and hands it to Kaylessa. "Here's mine if you want to take a look while I sleep."
Rising somewhat after the sun, Butternut gets a bite to eat, then retrieves her spell-book from Kaylessa. Since she can now learn an additional spell, Butternut uses that to memorize Read Magic so that she can try to learn some new spells. She also relearns Armor, as she plans to offer it to one of the other party members. If she thinks she has time to study more than one spell-book, she will convert Metamorphose Liquid to Read Magic as well.
"Good morning, Kaylessa," Butternut addresses the elven mage. "What spells does the half-orc's book hold?" Butternut will start with either Kaylessa's or Eri's spell-book.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
If Eri checks the rest of the gear for magic, Butternut will make sure that what she took off the half-orc is in the pile.
"Good to see you, too, big guy," Butternut replies with a snort of amusement. "Not lost, just trying to keep Vernar out of trouble."Kendell wrote:“Squash!” Kendell calls out. “You made it back! We thought we lost you!”
Butternut nods. "I don't think there was much more than food and common supplies left on the mounts, but I could be wrong. But yeah, keeping our eyes open is always a good idea."Erisciana wrote:"A drow, you say? Interesting. Hopefully we did not lose anything important. We need to stay aware of a possible ambush when we depart."
Butternut shares a warrior's grasp with the human warrior. "Can't argue with you there, buddy."Vardra wrote:When asked about the ogre, Gerett credits their marksmanship, while Butternut also gives high marks to Sergeant Crandell's tactics. Vardra gets a chuckle out of her description of the arrow-attired ogre. "Skill and tactics is a tough combination to beat. Still, congratulations seem to be in order."
Kaylessa makes a good point, but Butternut's hands are already full with the duergar's gear. "I've got his weapons and lockpicks. Vernar might've grabbed his leather armor."Kaylessa wrote:A thought comes to Kaylessa as Erisciana goes to look for magics in weapons and equipment. “We still have the items from the Half orcs if you wish to check those as well.”The mage says evenly to the priestess. “Vernar, if there was anything from your fallen foe, perhaps you would like that checked as well.”
As they prepare for resting during what is left of the night, Kaylessa and Erisciana both agree to sharing spell-books. There is also the half-orc's spell-book. Butternut will have to ask Kaylessa about that one in the morning. Butternut pulls out her grimoire and hands it to Kaylessa. "Here's mine if you want to take a look while I sleep."
Rising somewhat after the sun, Butternut gets a bite to eat, then retrieves her spell-book from Kaylessa. Since she can now learn an additional spell, Butternut uses that to memorize Read Magic so that she can try to learn some new spells. She also relearns Armor, as she plans to offer it to one of the other party members. If she thinks she has time to study more than one spell-book, she will convert Metamorphose Liquid to Read Magic as well.
"Good morning, Kaylessa," Butternut addresses the elven mage. "What spells does the half-orc's book hold?" Butternut will start with either Kaylessa's or Eri's spell-book.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
If Eri checks the rest of the gear for magic, Butternut will make sure that what she took off the half-orc is in the pile.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Post Continued:
Healing:
At long last the remnants of Wyvern, Chimera and Talon Squad have all met up. The enemy force has been eliminated and introductions are made. Among the new arrivals is Sergeant Crandell, the only surviving officer of the three squads. Laurel helps heal Vernar and Wimzy comes up to finish the task.
Introductions:
Nearby Sergeant Crandell is brought up to date on the situation.
Healing:
At long last the remnants of Wyvern, Chimera and Talon Squad have all met up. The enemy force has been eliminated and introductions are made. Among the new arrivals is Sergeant Crandell, the only surviving officer of the three squads. Laurel helps heal Vernar and Wimzy comes up to finish the task.
“Why thank you, Laurel,” Wimzy compliments. “The Blue Lady has gifted me with her healing touch. His wounds are starting to close, but I think I can finish the job. You're a priestess of cats? Kitties are sooooo cute!”Laurel wrote:Laurel breathes a sigh of relief and gestures at Vernar. "I've done all I can, it's not much...but by your robes I'm sure you're better equipped for this." She watches carefully as Wimzy completes her spell, taking a few mental notes on the structure of her incantation and her bedside manner. Once she feels her duty to Vernar has been successfully passed off she makes her way inside the keep in the hopes of tracking down Malf.
“Just don't hurt yourself in the process!,” Wimzy teases as she turns, her red hair twirling with her as she advances on Lucyus. “Don't make me heal you again!”Vernar wrote:"Oh no frettin' Laurel, you did jus' fine," Vernar smiles warmly and reassuredly at her. He then beams when Wimzy steps forward and heals all of his wounds, "Many thanks t' you! I can now take out the rest o' this army wherever it be lurkin' 'bout!"
“No follower of Heironeous is going to fall to one of those evil things!” Wimzy declares as she gestures to the Hextor priest. “Not on my watch!”Lucyus wrote:Lucyus feels the warmth of Wimzy’s magic. Lifting up his chain mail, he can see the wound mending, he looks to the follower of Azrella, “I thank you for your healing magic, Wimzy.”
Introductions:
Nearby Sergeant Crandell is brought up to date on the situation.
“So am I to understand that there is a trap in these halls that sends the unwary down into a dungeon deeper in the mountain?” the sergeant asks. “The Crown was never aware of such a thing. We thought this was just a observation post.”Lucyus wrote:“It is possible that they still may. Two-thirds of their force lies within the stone corridors beneath our feet. We found our way out within a few days, How long it will take them to find their freedom I cannot say. But it is something to be mindful of.” He says back to the Sgt.
“They will know what transpired here when they see the danger flag flying and not the all clear flag,” Sergeant Crandell states. “We can only guess what action they will take upon learning of this.”Lucyus wrote:“So it is safe to assume that the enemy will know of what happened here? That would give us a day or two not to be here when reinforcements come.” He says simply.
Erisciana wrote:"It's possible, if the drow spirited herself back to the army. But from the sounds of it, they have passed us by already. It will take time for it to reach the army and they will be at Graystone before they could return here, so there is no real need, unless they have some more rapid means of transport."
“That's right,” Sergeant Crandell agrees. “We were trailing the army and it was when we reached the side road that leads here that the enemy force was dispatched. So the army itself has already passed this point and is continuing on towards Fort Graystone. Give how slow they are moving, it will probably take another day for them to reach the fort and begin their attack.”Vardra wrote:"So there's an enemy army on the march? We had heard no word of it," Vardra says, "only seen the detachment that came up the hill."
“The enemy won't be foolish enough to out distance the catapults,” Sergeant Crandell counters. “Rather the enemy will adjust their pace to those pushing the war machines. They will not be unguarded. They are needed to breach the walls of Fort Graystone.”Vardra wrote:Sergeant Crandell describes their encounter with the enemy army moving this way. From his description, they passed the trail up the hill earlier this evening. The foreign priestess suspects that they will reach Fort Graystone under cover of darkness, which may be possible depending on how much those siege engines slow them down. "Moving those catapults may be slow-going, even for giants. If the main army gets well ahead of them, it might be possible to damage or destroy the catapults, which could reduce the enemy's ability to take the fort."
“Negative,” the sergeant answers. “We thought this was just an old observation post and nothing more.”Lucyus wrote:“Do you know of any other ways out of this fort?” he asks Sergeant Crandell.
“I see,” Sergeant Crandell answers in an even tone. “Seems to me that you've gotten more than you bargained for.”Vardra wrote:"Volunteered, sir," Vardra replies. "I wanted to get some field experience as well as some leadership training under Sergeant Traken's guidance."
Kaylessa wrote:“Perhaps we can put the bodies on the trap and send them to the darkness below.” She says calmly as she looks to the Sgt putting a stray bit of hair behind her ear. “It would send them a message that their leaders are no more. Surely it would break them further then they already are.” She says openly looking to Lucyus and Vernar.
Butternut wrote:Kaylessa's idea strikes a chord with Butternut. "I like that idea, Kay! It would be good to get their stink out of here. Sound good to you, Sarge?" she asks, turning to Crandell. If he agrees, Butternut will help with executing Kaylessa's plan.
“Can this be done without catching any of us in this trap?” Sergeant Crandell inquires.Kaylessa wrote:Kaylessa gives the halfling a slight smirk. She will let the Sgt. decide before she moves forward with the goblin dumping.
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Magic Items:
“The gear that you have acquired will be distributed among yourselves,” Sergeant Crandell states. “Normally your CO would hand out the items, but in truth I don't know any of you and what contributions you made in the conflict. Therefore, I will not make that choice. There is a method of rewarding gear that I heard about that seems to apply in this situation. Once you determine how many magic items there are, each of you will assign those items to the others in your group. You do not pick an item for yourself, instead everyone else does. Whomever gets the most votes for a particular item gets that item. The entire group gets one item and if more remain, you repeat the process again until all the gear is handed out.”
The entry door is barred once more for protection and Sergeant Crandell asks for volunteers for guards while the others sleep. Several agree and a rotation is set up while most turn in. Food and drink was placed on a different table for any to consume. The rest of the gear from the half-orcs is added to the mix.
Secret Door:
“All of this here,” Sann continues as he gestures, “is part o' an ancient dwarven outpost in this area called Bollo's Shield. It was commissioned by tae tyrant Bollo and then forgotten about when he lost his head. Tae trap still works, sending its victims down into tae depths o' the mountain. A bigger base is down there and I was just startin' to explore it when those goblins grabbed us! There be history to be discovered! Lore and forgotten knowledge are within our grasp!”
“There's a base down there filled with goblins?” Sergeant Crandell asks. “That can't be a coincidence. The enemy uses goblins as their foot soldiers. They might be using this old dwarven base as a supply depot. I bet that have food and supplies stored there for the main army to draw upon. After all, they have to feed all those troops and the giants. That's a lot of food and water and without knowing how long a siege would last they would need supplies. If we can deny them these supplies, it will weaken the enemy army in time. An enemy looses much of its fight when its starving. We will need to explore this dwarven lair.”
What Laurel describes is quickly tried out and it works! The secret door creaks open. Behind there are stairs going down into darkness. The way is filled with cobwebs and dust coats the floor. No one has been this way for a very long time. Those who can see in the dark can see the stairs going down for about twenty feet and then they turn to the right. The door shuts on its own after a few minutes.
Before turning in for the evening, Sergeant Crandell will say, “As I see it, we have several tasks to carry out tomorrow after we rest. Spell casters need to recover your spells. We'll need a watcher to monitor the pass below. See if any additional enemy forces are moving on us.”
“Private Vardra,” Sergeant Crandell continues. “Once it is light out, take a small force down the ramp. Round up the mounts and see if that drow is in the area. Given their dislike of light, she probably took shelter somewhere. Recover what supplies we can. In the day time, we have the advantage. Let's make use of it.”
“Vernar,” Sergeant Crandell says turning to the dwarf. “Gather up a unit who can see in the dark and explore down those stairs. Scout out what is down there and report back. We'll make further plans based on what you discover.”
“A lot to do, so lets get to it.”
Kaylessa records the spell that just came into her mind into her spell book. After that she re-memorizes her spells and learns Read Magic. She casts that spell and is able to understand the spells in the half-orcs book. It's a combination of first and second levels spells!
Morning arrives in just a few short hours. Those who take to the observation post at the top of the stairs can now see Fort Graystone far off in the distance. It is not being attacked, at least not yet. The enemy army seems about halfway there down in the pass. They've set up camp and appear to be resting.
Once Erisciana rises in the morning and completes her memorizing/praying for spells, she examines the items placed on the table with the magic items and the half-orc items. Three daggers, a short sword, and two more potions are found to be enchanted beyond what was discovered before.
Lucyus wrote:“In the way of spoils, I believe it may be best to make our group more formidable. What is necessary over personal want so that the team is stronger as a whole. If anyone feels differently please say so. While the point is fairly mute as we do not know the origins of the magic goods, we will need a system to move forward.” He says evenly looking to the others.
Erisciana checks for any magic on the gear of the fallen enemies. What she finds is gathered up and place on one of the the tables in the common area of the Eagle's Nest. What was taken by Butternut from the half-orc she and Vernar chased is added to the mix. Kaylessa adds what she took from the female half-orc who had the spell book.Kaylessa wrote:A thought comes to Kaylessa as Erisciana goes to look for magics in weapons and equipment. “We still have the items from the Half orcs if you wish to check those as well.”The mage says evenly to the priestess. “Vernar, if there was anything from your fallen foe, perhaps you would like that checked as well.”
Kaylessa will pull out the items that she took from the Half orc mage and put them so that Erisciana can look them over when she sees fit.
“The gear that you have acquired will be distributed among yourselves,” Sergeant Crandell states. “Normally your CO would hand out the items, but in truth I don't know any of you and what contributions you made in the conflict. Therefore, I will not make that choice. There is a method of rewarding gear that I heard about that seems to apply in this situation. Once you determine how many magic items there are, each of you will assign those items to the others in your group. You do not pick an item for yourself, instead everyone else does. Whomever gets the most votes for a particular item gets that item. The entire group gets one item and if more remain, you repeat the process again until all the gear is handed out.”
The entry door is barred once more for protection and Sergeant Crandell asks for volunteers for guards while the others sleep. Several agree and a rotation is set up while most turn in. Food and drink was placed on a different table for any to consume. The rest of the gear from the half-orcs is added to the mix.
Secret Door:
Lucyus wrote:As Sergeant asks if there is anything else to report, “There was talk of a chamber or access point over there.” He says pointing to the wall where the warrior priestess was working.
Erisciana wrote:"We found a secret door, but have not yet determined a means to open it. We were making some progress before the final battle here commenced."
“Figured tae ancient dwarves that built this place had tae have a backdoor tae lair down below,” Sann adds. “So they could bypass their trap. Sann Silverbeard, Agent of tae Ministry o' Histories at yer service!”Laurel wrote:Laurel blushes, taken back a bit by the woman's forward manner. She looks down at her dirt-stained red-trimmed surcoat. It doesn't exactly scream mage, but it also doesn't really look like typical priest garb either. But from what she's seen of the other priests in this group atypical is to be expected. The young woman takes the elfs hand in the least awkward way she can think of and offers a slight bow before presenting her holy symbol: a silver cat with olive-colored stones for eyes. "Laurel, priestess of Felix, guardian of knowledge, libraries, and cats." She gestures to the tortoiseshell cat purring in Sanns lap on the last word. "Malfamata." She raises an eyebrow at Malf, indicating that she heard him, "It's lovely to meet you Kaylessa, and you are?" She then turns to Sann, offering a short bow.
“All of this here,” Sann continues as he gestures, “is part o' an ancient dwarven outpost in this area called Bollo's Shield. It was commissioned by tae tyrant Bollo and then forgotten about when he lost his head. Tae trap still works, sending its victims down into tae depths o' the mountain. A bigger base is down there and I was just startin' to explore it when those goblins grabbed us! There be history to be discovered! Lore and forgotten knowledge are within our grasp!”
“There's a base down there filled with goblins?” Sergeant Crandell asks. “That can't be a coincidence. The enemy uses goblins as their foot soldiers. They might be using this old dwarven base as a supply depot. I bet that have food and supplies stored there for the main army to draw upon. After all, they have to feed all those troops and the giants. That's a lot of food and water and without knowing how long a siege would last they would need supplies. If we can deny them these supplies, it will weaken the enemy army in time. An enemy looses much of its fight when its starving. We will need to explore this dwarven lair.”
After casting her spell, a vision appears before Laurel's eyes. She can see a group of dwarves within the common area of the outpost. One of the dwarves closes the door that goes up to the observation tower and locks it. A second dwarf grabs the torch holder that Erisciana determined would move earlier. At the same time, a third dwarf moves the torch holder on the opposite wall. Once both holders are as far out as they can go, the dwarves turn them 90 degrees clockwise. In response to this, the secret door opens revealing stairs descending into darkness. The three dwarves quickly move down the stairs. Behind them, the secret door closes and the torches move back to their normal position. Laurel shares what she discovered with the group.Laurel wrote:Laurel wanders over to the area that Lucyus gestured to and looks at the doorway and sconces in the walls. She pulls out her holy symbol and traces its familiar curves out of habit as she paces the length of the wall for a minute looking for any clues, tugging at the sconces because that's always what the adventurer does in the stories. She is somewhat surprised when they actually move. After a thorough investigation she prepares her holy symbol to work a "thought capture" spell. She'd always dreamed of going through old abandoned ruins and digging up old memories which would then lead to finding old books lost for eons. This probably wouldn't be nearly as romantic as that. If she was lucky she might be able to find out what Chimera and Wyvern squads ate for supper the previous day if it was forgettable enough.
What Laurel describes is quickly tried out and it works! The secret door creaks open. Behind there are stairs going down into darkness. The way is filled with cobwebs and dust coats the floor. No one has been this way for a very long time. Those who can see in the dark can see the stairs going down for about twenty feet and then they turn to the right. The door shuts on its own after a few minutes.
Before turning in for the evening, Sergeant Crandell will say, “As I see it, we have several tasks to carry out tomorrow after we rest. Spell casters need to recover your spells. We'll need a watcher to monitor the pass below. See if any additional enemy forces are moving on us.”
“Private Vardra,” Sergeant Crandell continues. “Once it is light out, take a small force down the ramp. Round up the mounts and see if that drow is in the area. Given their dislike of light, she probably took shelter somewhere. Recover what supplies we can. In the day time, we have the advantage. Let's make use of it.”
“Vernar,” Sergeant Crandell says turning to the dwarf. “Gather up a unit who can see in the dark and explore down those stairs. Scout out what is down there and report back. We'll make further plans based on what you discover.”
“A lot to do, so lets get to it.”
Kaylessa records the spell that just came into her mind into her spell book. After that she re-memorizes her spells and learns Read Magic. She casts that spell and is able to understand the spells in the half-orcs book. It's a combination of first and second levels spells!
Morning arrives in just a few short hours. Those who take to the observation post at the top of the stairs can now see Fort Graystone far off in the distance. It is not being attacked, at least not yet. The enemy army seems about halfway there down in the pass. They've set up camp and appear to be resting.
Once Erisciana rises in the morning and completes her memorizing/praying for spells, she examines the items placed on the table with the magic items and the half-orc items. Three daggers, a short sword, and two more potions are found to be enchanted beyond what was discovered before.
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
GM Notes:
The spells in the half-orcs book are listed in the Spell Book thread in the sticky section of this forum. As other spell books are found, they will all be listed in that thread so you don't have to go back through old posts to find them.
The way to hand out magic items Sergeant Crandell suggests seemed to me and those who I have discussed the matter with to be the best method of those tried before in the New Frontiers game and the most fair. List who gets what, discounting yourself. Sergeant Crandell himself is not looking to get any of the items.
Here is a list of the magic items recovered:
Plate Mail
Longsword
Shield
10 Flight Arrows
Potion
Potion
Black rock
Dagger
Potion
Light Crossbow
10 Crossbow Bolts
Small Shield
Dagger
Potion
Potion
War hammer
Short sword
Short sword
Dagger
Ring
Now what?
The spells in the half-orcs book are listed in the Spell Book thread in the sticky section of this forum. As other spell books are found, they will all be listed in that thread so you don't have to go back through old posts to find them.
The way to hand out magic items Sergeant Crandell suggests seemed to me and those who I have discussed the matter with to be the best method of those tried before in the New Frontiers game and the most fair. List who gets what, discounting yourself. Sergeant Crandell himself is not looking to get any of the items.
Here is a list of the magic items recovered:
Plate Mail
Longsword
Shield
10 Flight Arrows
Potion
Potion
Black rock
Dagger
Potion
Light Crossbow
10 Crossbow Bolts
Small Shield
Dagger
Potion
Potion
War hammer
Short sword
Short sword
Dagger
Ring
Now what?
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Erisciana -
The long, long day ends and the group gets to finish their sleep and rest. The mages among them have agreed to exchange spells from each others' spell books. So the priestess is interested to see what else she may learn, especially from the half-orc's book.
When she awakens again, Erisci will cheerfully greet whomever is up and about. It's been a couple days since they were not under duress through the night. The group is noticeably less tense this morning despite the situation with the enemy looming down on Graystone Fort. She will comment that they should consider rationing the food carefully for the moment as they might be without easy means to replenish their supplies. "I may be able to Purify the food, but I am not yet powerful enough to Create food from thin air, as yet," she comments. "If the enemy was indeed storing food and supplies below, then it will not be such a problem. Although what the goblins consider food may indeed require purifying before we partake of it," she says with a smile.
The priestess will find a quiet corner to make her orisons and morning prayer to Ishtar soon after awakening. She finds that the Goddess has rewarded her with additional spells both in number and increased power. Erisci is humbled that her efforts have been noticed and rewarded. Even more so, Ishtar once more has entreated for her servant to the great Isharia as well. Isharia has always had a presence in the priestess' life, gifting her with an unnatural ability to Detect and Dispel Magicks among other gifts. Her magick ability came natural, almost unlearned. And while she would never be a spellcaster supreme, the goddess sisters both deemed to cast a kind eye toward Erisci. Her magickal capacities were now increased as well. Erisci continued her supplications, this time honoring the Lady of Wisdom.
To conclude her morning ritual, Erisci will ascend the steps to the observation post and look for the morning star. By now, the sun has risen and Ishtar cannot be seen. Still the priestess will look into the direction of the personification of her goddess and bow her head. Taking her holy symbol in her hand, she says a final prayer of thanks and of protection for her comrades in the days to come. A war was on the horizon.
Returning to the sleeping chambers, Erisciana will search out whomever has the book from the half-orc mage. She casts Read Magic and attempts to read, study and learn some of the spells contained there-in. She will try to learn all the spells that she doesn't have. She then will then study her own book to refill her spell limits (as per the Spells thread). Once that is done, she will cast the other two Read Magick spells to look at the spell books from Kaylessa and Ren for now and attempt to learn any available spells she does not already know..
Finally, when all is done, she once more summons the gift of Isharia to Detect Magicks. She weaves the patterns and conjures the extrasensory ability. Glows and sparkles reward the effort once more and the priestess determines that 3 daggers, a short sword and 2 more potions contain magickal powers. She is unable to determine the type of magick within them however.
The previous evening, Laurel used a spell from her god to determine the means to open the secret door and it was successfully tested. They were on the right track, which makes Erisci happy. She will make sure that they have a way to open the door from the other side. It is likely there but best to be certain.
By this point, Vardra has taken his group down to check on the horses and supplies. Erisci will ask them to see if her crystal staff, which was left in the cave, could be located and retrieved. Meanwhile, Vernar has gone down to explore the stairs beyond the secret door with his own group. The priestess is curious what each of the groups find and also what the situation is regarding the enemy army in the valley below. Between the time that she finishes the spell studying and the scout groups return, Erisci will go to the observation tower to keep whomever is on watch some company.
The long, long day ends and the group gets to finish their sleep and rest. The mages among them have agreed to exchange spells from each others' spell books. So the priestess is interested to see what else she may learn, especially from the half-orc's book.
When she awakens again, Erisci will cheerfully greet whomever is up and about. It's been a couple days since they were not under duress through the night. The group is noticeably less tense this morning despite the situation with the enemy looming down on Graystone Fort. She will comment that they should consider rationing the food carefully for the moment as they might be without easy means to replenish their supplies. "I may be able to Purify the food, but I am not yet powerful enough to Create food from thin air, as yet," she comments. "If the enemy was indeed storing food and supplies below, then it will not be such a problem. Although what the goblins consider food may indeed require purifying before we partake of it," she says with a smile.
The priestess will find a quiet corner to make her orisons and morning prayer to Ishtar soon after awakening. She finds that the Goddess has rewarded her with additional spells both in number and increased power. Erisci is humbled that her efforts have been noticed and rewarded. Even more so, Ishtar once more has entreated for her servant to the great Isharia as well. Isharia has always had a presence in the priestess' life, gifting her with an unnatural ability to Detect and Dispel Magicks among other gifts. Her magick ability came natural, almost unlearned. And while she would never be a spellcaster supreme, the goddess sisters both deemed to cast a kind eye toward Erisci. Her magickal capacities were now increased as well. Erisci continued her supplications, this time honoring the Lady of Wisdom.
To conclude her morning ritual, Erisci will ascend the steps to the observation post and look for the morning star. By now, the sun has risen and Ishtar cannot be seen. Still the priestess will look into the direction of the personification of her goddess and bow her head. Taking her holy symbol in her hand, she says a final prayer of thanks and of protection for her comrades in the days to come. A war was on the horizon.
Returning to the sleeping chambers, Erisciana will search out whomever has the book from the half-orc mage. She casts Read Magic and attempts to read, study and learn some of the spells contained there-in. She will try to learn all the spells that she doesn't have. She then will then study her own book to refill her spell limits (as per the Spells thread). Once that is done, she will cast the other two Read Magick spells to look at the spell books from Kaylessa and Ren for now and attempt to learn any available spells she does not already know..
Finally, when all is done, she once more summons the gift of Isharia to Detect Magicks. She weaves the patterns and conjures the extrasensory ability. Glows and sparkles reward the effort once more and the priestess determines that 3 daggers, a short sword and 2 more potions contain magickal powers. She is unable to determine the type of magick within them however.
The previous evening, Laurel used a spell from her god to determine the means to open the secret door and it was successfully tested. They were on the right track, which makes Erisci happy. She will make sure that they have a way to open the door from the other side. It is likely there but best to be certain.
By this point, Vardra has taken his group down to check on the horses and supplies. Erisci will ask them to see if her crystal staff, which was left in the cave, could be located and retrieved. Meanwhile, Vernar has gone down to explore the stairs beyond the secret door with his own group. The priestess is curious what each of the groups find and also what the situation is regarding the enemy army in the valley below. Between the time that she finishes the spell studying and the scout groups return, Erisci will go to the observation tower to keep whomever is on watch some company.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Magic Items Vote from Erisci -
Ken has suggested a magic item disbursement method that seems most fair. He would like votes to be public and so please post here in this format to be consistent.
Plate Mail - KENDALL
Longsword - VARDRA
Shield - LUCYUS
10 Flight Arrows - FLARE
Potion - WHIMZY*
Potion - WHIMZY*
Black rock -
Dagger -
Potion - WHIMZY*
Light Crossbow - BUTTERNUT
10 Crossbow Bolts - GERRETT
Small Shield - LAUREL
Dagger- REN **
Potion - WHIMZY*
Potion - WHIMZY*
War hammer -
Short sword - KAYLESSA
Short sword - VERNAR
Dagger- REN **
Ring - SORVANI
I am suggesting all the potions to WHIMZY as we have no idea what they are doing anyway. I am suggesting combining two daggers and giving to REN since he has no ranged attacks and has the proficiency.
Please vote for an item for each person. Do not vote for your character. Players with two characters vote independently.
Ken has suggested a magic item disbursement method that seems most fair. He would like votes to be public and so please post here in this format to be consistent.
Plate Mail - KENDALL
Longsword - VARDRA
Shield - LUCYUS
10 Flight Arrows - FLARE
Potion - WHIMZY*
Potion - WHIMZY*
Black rock -
Dagger -
Potion - WHIMZY*
Light Crossbow - BUTTERNUT
10 Crossbow Bolts - GERRETT
Small Shield - LAUREL
Dagger- REN **
Potion - WHIMZY*
Potion - WHIMZY*
War hammer -
Short sword - KAYLESSA
Short sword - VERNAR
Dagger- REN **
Ring - SORVANI
I am suggesting all the potions to WHIMZY as we have no idea what they are doing anyway. I am suggesting combining two daggers and giving to REN since he has no ranged attacks and has the proficiency.
Please vote for an item for each person. Do not vote for your character. Players with two characters vote independently.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Kaylessa
After a time her hand begins to ache from the writing and puts down the half orc spell book then picks up Butternut’s spellbook and flips through it, finding two spells she would like she attempts to learn them as well.
She does the same for Ren, but holds off on asking for Erisciana’s spellbook.
When the other mages wake, she will give back the spell books that she was entrusted with. She will give the halforc spellbook to Sorvani as he was the unspoken keeper of it.
“Perhaps, Perhaps not.” She says evenly looking at the Sergeant. “There was oil broken upon the floor. It might be good not to waste it. We can stack the bodies and burn them upon leaving.”“Can this be done without catching any of us in this trap?” Sergeant Crandell inquires.
Shaking her black mane of hair a slight smirk comes to her features as she snorts holding back a laugh. “Military Intelligence at it’s finest. Leap then look.”she says under her breath. “I trust it will be in our report upon our return to the army.” She says simply looking at the Sgt.“So am I to understand that there is a trap in these halls that sends the unwary down into a dungeon deeper in the mountain?” the sergeant asks. “The Crown was never aware of such a thing. We thought this was just a observation post.”
“How many goblins, we cannot be sure. Vernar let a Stone Guardian loose within their ranks. Many goblins died in it’s wake. Others by fire. It is still down there and showed no sign of slowing down when we escaped into the daylight.” She says informing the Sgt of what transpired.“There's a base down there filled with goblins?” Sergeant Crandell asks. “That can't be a coincidence. The enemy uses goblins as their foot soldiers. They might be using this old dwarven base as a supply depot. I bet that have food and supplies stored there for the main army to draw upon. After all, they have to feed all those troops and the giants. That's a lot of food and water and without knowing how long a siege would last they would need supplies. If we can deny them these supplies, it will weaken the enemy army in time. An enemy looses much of its fight when its starving. We will need to explore this dwarven lair.”
“Ï will take a look at it, Thank you!”As they prepare for resting during what is left of the night, Kaylessa and Erisciana both agree to sharing spell-books. There is also the half-orc's spell-book. Butternut will have to ask Kaylessa about that one in the morning. Butternut pulls out her grimoire and hands it to Kaylessa. "Here's mine if you want to take a look while I sleep."
As she finishes writing Knock to her spell book she smiles and blows on the ink. Satisfied that it is dried, Kaylessa picks up the half orc’s tome and begins flipping through it admiring the calligraphy. After a time she cants the words to the read magic spell that she learned all that time ago. The words leap off the page in understanding and a smile comes to her face. She begins attempting to learn the spells before her for they are not just first level spells but second level as well! Such an incredible find!Kaylessa records the spell that just came into her mind into her spell book. After that she re-memorizes her spells and learns Read Magic. She casts that spell and is able to understand the spells in the half-orcs book. It's a combination of first and second levels spells!
After a time her hand begins to ache from the writing and puts down the half orc spell book then picks up Butternut’s spellbook and flips through it, finding two spells she would like she attempts to learn them as well.
She does the same for Ren, but holds off on asking for Erisciana’s spellbook.
A wide smile comes to the elf as she tucks her blank hair behind her ear. “Far to many to list, Our foe was talented enough to know how to cast first and second level spells. It is good that she was put down as fast as she was.” She says thoughfully knowing that if roles were reversed she would receive the same fate."Good morning, Kaylessa," Butternut addresses the elven mage. "What spells does the half-orc's book hold?" Butternut will start with either Kaylessa's or Eri's spell-book.
“It would seem you need some help good dwarf.”Kaylessa says to Vernar. “I would be happy to assist you once my spellbook is returned to me. I think I may have learned a spell that might be of use when we find the exit from the stairwell.” She says with a ghost of a smile. “Let me replenish my arrows from the armory and I will join you shortly.”“Vernar,” Sergeant Crandell says turning to the dwarf. “Gather up a unit who can see in the dark and explore down those stairs. Scout out what is down there and report back. We'll make further plans based on what you discover.”
When the other mages wake, she will give back the spell books that she was entrusted with. She will give the halforc spellbook to Sorvani as he was the unspoken keeper of it.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Kaylessa's vote
( This was hard!)
Plate Mail Lucyus
Longsword Kendell
Shield Vardra
10 Flight Arrows Flare
Potion
Potion
Black rock Wimzy
Dagger
Potion
Light Crossbow Butternut
10 Crossbow Bolts Gerret
Small Shield Erisciana
Dagger Ren
Potion
Potion
War hammer
Short sword Vernar
Short sword Laurel
Dagger
Ring Sorvani
Wimzy potions(all/Black rock)
Wimzy I was thinking could be a keeper of potions and the black rock. In regards to the War Hammer I would think that if someone wanted to trade for it, they could.
( This was hard!)
Plate Mail Lucyus
Longsword Kendell
Shield Vardra
10 Flight Arrows Flare
Potion
Potion
Black rock Wimzy
Dagger
Potion
Light Crossbow Butternut
10 Crossbow Bolts Gerret
Small Shield Erisciana
Dagger Ren
Potion
Potion
War hammer
Short sword Vernar
Short sword Laurel
Dagger
Ring Sorvani
Wimzy potions(all/Black rock)
Wimzy I was thinking could be a keeper of potions and the black rock. In regards to the War Hammer I would think that if someone wanted to trade for it, they could.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Lucyus
Lucyus listens to how the items should be distributed. “It sounds fair enough.”he says as he pushes his black hair from his face. “I only thought to make us stronger as a whole.”
As the meeting comes to a close, Lucyus moves to his bunk and removes his gear and padding. He wipes down his body of the dried blood and sweat and sees to his armor. He grows tired and soon rests his eyes for a few hours.
The sun creeps in waking him from his slumber while not a full nights sleep he is thankful for what sleep he was allowed. Rising to his feet he stretches and dawns his padding and armor. He gets on his knees and makes the sign of his patron. Thanking him for his guidance and asking for his blessings.
He makes his way to where he put his rations on the table to find several of the others had seen to their food. He greets Erisciana and soon hears her words of caution.
He takes out his axe and begins to sharpen it with his whetstone. Once satisfied he will do the same with his longsword and daggers.
Lucyus will relax for a time until the groups are defined.
“To be impaled by rusted long forgotten spikes, or to roam the dark, wounded and with limited supplies. And that is if a monster does not feast upon you while you slumber.” He recalls the wights, as they feasted on their unlucky prey. “We will need to inform the crown of these, developments. I would not wish such a death on anyone, save a Hextorite.””he says simple as he stows his axe.“So am I to understand that there is a trap in these halls that sends the unwary down into a dungeon deeper in the mountain?” the sergeant asks. “The Crown was never aware of such a thing. We thought this was just a observation post.”
Taking a deep breath, as several thoughts come to mind. “ If they have passed us then they would not delay they attack on the fort. Or atleast I wouldn’t. I would drive my men harder and hit the fort hard and fast before our defences are fully prepared.” He says more to himself then the Sgt.“They will know what transpired here when they see the danger flag flying and not the all clear flag,” Sergeant Crandell states. “We can only guess what action they will take upon learning of this.”
“You are dealing with a lot of if’s my friend.” Lucyus says to the private. “Catapults and siege engines are to be treasured and guarded. They would be in the middle of the convoy at best, surrounded by Calvary or infantry. It would be suicide if you followed such a course.” He says simply recalling his training.Vardra wrote:Sergeant Crandell describes their encounter with the enemy army moving this way. From his description, they passed the trail up the hill earlier this evening. The foreign priestess suspects that they will reach Fort Graystone under cover of darkness, which may be possible depending on how much those siege engines slow them down. "Moving those catapults may be slow-going, even for giants. If the main army gets well ahead of them, it might be possible to damage or destroy the catapults, which could reduce the enemy's ability to take the fort."
Lucyus listens to how the items should be distributed. “It sounds fair enough.”he says as he pushes his black hair from his face. “I only thought to make us stronger as a whole.”
“Flare would be your man to stand as watcher.” He says as he looks back to the ranger. “He is good with a bow and his hawk would be of help in the matter.Before turning in for the evening, Sergeant Crandell will say, “As I see it, we have several tasks to carry out tomorrow after we rest. Spell casters need to recover your spells. We'll need a watcher to monitor the pass below. See if any additional enemy forces are moving on us.”
As the meeting comes to a close, Lucyus moves to his bunk and removes his gear and padding. He wipes down his body of the dried blood and sweat and sees to his armor. He grows tired and soon rests his eyes for a few hours.
The sun creeps in waking him from his slumber while not a full nights sleep he is thankful for what sleep he was allowed. Rising to his feet he stretches and dawns his padding and armor. He gets on his knees and makes the sign of his patron. Thanking him for his guidance and asking for his blessings.
He makes his way to where he put his rations on the table to find several of the others had seen to their food. He greets Erisciana and soon hears her words of caution.
“Nor am I but we should have enough food for a few more days.” He says evenly. He looks for his portions that he put with Sorvani and picks them up putting them over his shoulder. “I will hold these for us so that we do not run afoul.” He says simply. “We should see to gathering fresh water as well. I am sure there are some that would wish to wash the blood from their hands and face.” He says as he finds a spot to sit against the wall.She will comment that they should consider rationing the food carefully for the moment as they might be without easy means to replenish their supplies. "I may be able to Purify the food, but I am not yet powerful enough to Create food from thin air, as yet," she comments. "If the enemy was indeed storing food and supplies below, then it will not be such a problem. Although what the goblins consider food may indeed require purifying before we partake of it," she says with a smile.
He takes out his axe and begins to sharpen it with his whetstone. Once satisfied he will do the same with his longsword and daggers.
Lucyus will relax for a time until the groups are defined.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Lucyus
Lucyus Opinion
Plate Mail Kendell
Longsword Vardra
Shield
10 Flight Arrows Flare
Potion
Potion
Black rock
Dagger
Potion
Light Crossbow Butternut
10 Crossbow Bolts Gerret
Small Shield Erisciana
Dagger Ren
Potion
Potion
War hammer
Short sword Vernar
Short sword Kaylessa
Dagger Laurel
Ring Sorvani
Wimzy potions(all/Black rock)
Lucyus Opinion
Plate Mail Kendell
Longsword Vardra
Shield
10 Flight Arrows Flare
Potion
Potion
Black rock
Dagger
Potion
Light Crossbow Butternut
10 Crossbow Bolts Gerret
Small Shield Erisciana
Dagger Ren
Potion
Potion
War hammer
Short sword Vernar
Short sword Kaylessa
Dagger Laurel
Ring Sorvani
Wimzy potions(all/Black rock)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Butternut:
Sergeant Crandell seems surprised to hear that the outlook is part of a larger complex. Not surprising, as it seems no one has known about the dwarven outpost for a long time. Sann comes out of hiding and talks at length about the dwarven outpost. Butternut finds that she really enjoys his accent. Crandell comes to the conclusion that the enemy may be using it as a staging and storage area. To his mind, stopping it from being used that way may limit their ability to siege Fort Graystone. Erisciana is concerned about their food supplies, and proposes rationing them. If the sergeant is right, then that may be less of a concern. "It did seem like there was a lot more to the dwarven halls down there than what we saw. There were lots of goblins too, perhaps a couple hundred or so, at least Vernar unleashed that dwarven golem on them!"
Erisciana is concerned about their food supplies, and proposes rationing them. Joining in the conversation, Lucyus estimates that they have sufficient food left for several days, which seems likely to Butternut. The priestess' comment about goblin food causes her to crinkle her nose in distaste. "I've seen what goblins eat, and most of it is not edible for the rest of us."
The sergeant responds to Butternut's question about the trap with another question. Kaylessa isn't convinced that the trap can be sprung without risking any of the party, and suggests burning the goblin's bodies instead. "Burning the goblins will create a far worse stink that just leaving their bodies, and it will likely permeate this place for years to come.
"I'm certain we can trigger the trap safely as long as we are careful. We understand how the trap works now, and we know where the trigger point is. We should be able to avoid tripping it until we want to, and we should be able to trigger it with a long pole or weapon while safely out of reach. We also have plenty of rope to secure anyone who may be in a risky position."
Talk regarding doling out the magic items gets bandied about for a short while. Crandell puts forth an idea where everyone votes for who should receive each item, but cannot vote for themselves. Each item is then awarded to whomever gets the most votes for that item, with the caveat that no one can receive a second item until everyone has received a first item. "Seems as good a way to split them up as any," Butternut remarks. "Of course, without knowing what that black rock, the ring, and those potions are, there doesn't seem much point in trying to divvy them out."
Butternut makes sure to add the lock picks that she got off the half-orc to the pile of miscellaneous items. Seems like a good idea to have an extra set around in case any get lost or broken.
Laurel casts some sort of spell, and it shows her how to work the hidden door! "That's a great spell, Laurel," Butternut says to the skittish priest. They try out the process that she recites, and it works quite well. The halfling ranger finds herself quite intrigued by what they might find down those stairs.
Just before everyone goes off to rest, Crandell lays out a plan for the morning. He seems content to give the spell-casters plenty of time to renew their spells and learn new ones. A couple other groups will recover whatever supplies they can and explore the stairs a bit.
In the morning, Butternut accepts her spell tome back from the elf. Since Kaylessa has already updated her grimoire, she starts there. After hearing from Kaylessa about the bounty of spells in the half-orc's spell-book, Butternut will cast her second Read Magic and try to learn as many of it's secrets as she can.
____________________________________________________________________
Of the spells in the two spell-books, only Feather Fall is elemental, so she'll only have a 50% chance to learn the others.
Sergeant Crandell seems surprised to hear that the outlook is part of a larger complex. Not surprising, as it seems no one has known about the dwarven outpost for a long time. Sann comes out of hiding and talks at length about the dwarven outpost. Butternut finds that she really enjoys his accent. Crandell comes to the conclusion that the enemy may be using it as a staging and storage area. To his mind, stopping it from being used that way may limit their ability to siege Fort Graystone. Erisciana is concerned about their food supplies, and proposes rationing them. If the sergeant is right, then that may be less of a concern. "It did seem like there was a lot more to the dwarven halls down there than what we saw. There were lots of goblins too, perhaps a couple hundred or so, at least Vernar unleashed that dwarven golem on them!"
Erisciana is concerned about their food supplies, and proposes rationing them. Joining in the conversation, Lucyus estimates that they have sufficient food left for several days, which seems likely to Butternut. The priestess' comment about goblin food causes her to crinkle her nose in distaste. "I've seen what goblins eat, and most of it is not edible for the rest of us."
The sergeant responds to Butternut's question about the trap with another question. Kaylessa isn't convinced that the trap can be sprung without risking any of the party, and suggests burning the goblin's bodies instead. "Burning the goblins will create a far worse stink that just leaving their bodies, and it will likely permeate this place for years to come.
"I'm certain we can trigger the trap safely as long as we are careful. We understand how the trap works now, and we know where the trigger point is. We should be able to avoid tripping it until we want to, and we should be able to trigger it with a long pole or weapon while safely out of reach. We also have plenty of rope to secure anyone who may be in a risky position."
Talk regarding doling out the magic items gets bandied about for a short while. Crandell puts forth an idea where everyone votes for who should receive each item, but cannot vote for themselves. Each item is then awarded to whomever gets the most votes for that item, with the caveat that no one can receive a second item until everyone has received a first item. "Seems as good a way to split them up as any," Butternut remarks. "Of course, without knowing what that black rock, the ring, and those potions are, there doesn't seem much point in trying to divvy them out."
Butternut makes sure to add the lock picks that she got off the half-orc to the pile of miscellaneous items. Seems like a good idea to have an extra set around in case any get lost or broken.
Laurel casts some sort of spell, and it shows her how to work the hidden door! "That's a great spell, Laurel," Butternut says to the skittish priest. They try out the process that she recites, and it works quite well. The halfling ranger finds herself quite intrigued by what they might find down those stairs.
Just before everyone goes off to rest, Crandell lays out a plan for the morning. He seems content to give the spell-casters plenty of time to renew their spells and learn new ones. A couple other groups will recover whatever supplies they can and explore the stairs a bit.
In the morning, Butternut accepts her spell tome back from the elf. Since Kaylessa has already updated her grimoire, she starts there. After hearing from Kaylessa about the bounty of spells in the half-orc's spell-book, Butternut will cast her second Read Magic and try to learn as many of it's secrets as she can.
____________________________________________________________________
Of the spells in the two spell-books, only Feather Fall is elemental, so she'll only have a 50% chance to learn the others.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Butternut:
Since they have no idea what the miscellaneous items are, I'm not including them in the list. Having someone hold those items until they are Identified is fine with me.
Plate Mail - LUCYUS
Shield - VARDRA
Small Shield - ERISCIANA
Light Crossbow - GERETT
10 Crossbow Bolts
10 Flight Arrows - FLARE
War Hammer
Longsword - KENDELL
Short Sword- KAYLESSA
Short Sword - VERNAR
Dagger - LAUREL
Dagger - REN
Dagger - SORVANI
Since they have no idea what the miscellaneous items are, I'm not including them in the list. Having someone hold those items until they are Identified is fine with me.
Plate Mail - LUCYUS
Shield - VARDRA
Small Shield - ERISCIANA
Light Crossbow - GERETT
10 Crossbow Bolts
10 Flight Arrows - FLARE
War Hammer
Longsword - KENDELL
Short Sword- KAYLESSA
Short Sword - VERNAR
Dagger - LAUREL
Dagger - REN
Dagger - SORVANI
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Laurel doesn't want to be "that" person, but she doesn't really have an opinion on the loot and she doesn't know anybody well enough to say who needs what the most. She is of the same mind as the party in that Whimzy should probably hold onto the potions and we should probably get some things identified. Like the ring "One never knows if a magic ring is the useful kind of ring that will turn you invisible or the kind that will turn you into a frog." -Patricia C. Wrede
Potions: Whimzy
Daggers: Ren, Vernar, Kaylessa
Longsword: Vardra or Lucyus
Platemail: Kendell
Shield: Vardra or Lucyus
10 Flight Arrows: Flare seems to be the consensus
Black rock:
Light Crossbow: Butternut or Gerret
10 Crossbow Bolts: Butternut or Gerret
Small Shield: Erisciana
War hammer:
Short swords: Kaylessa, Vernar
Ring
Potions: Whimzy
Daggers: Ren, Vernar, Kaylessa
Longsword: Vardra or Lucyus
Platemail: Kendell
Shield: Vardra or Lucyus
10 Flight Arrows: Flare seems to be the consensus
Black rock:
Light Crossbow: Butternut or Gerret
10 Crossbow Bolts: Butternut or Gerret
Small Shield: Erisciana
War hammer:
Short swords: Kaylessa, Vernar
Ring
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Vardra Marcus, PFC:
Sergeant Crandell informs everyone of the army they witnessed marching on Fort Graystone. Not surprisingly, this draws quite a bit of discussion. As the sergeant notes, the enemy - and the fort as well - will know what's up once they see the flag flying in the morning. Fortunately, that means that the fort will not be unprepared for the attack. The army had passed the road up to Eagle's Nest when Talon Squad - with Vernar and Butternut - got there; still, Crandell estimates another day before they reach the fort due to the slow pace required by the siege equipment.
Crandell believes that the enemy will set their pace by the siege equipment and won't get ahead of it, to which Lucyus agrees. Vardra shrugs in response. "From the stories I've heard growing up, Sergeant, orcs and goblins and such are often undisciplined and prone to stupid mistakes. From what you've said, I guess this army has better leadership and control over their troops than many of that ilk."
Sann the dwarf provides a bit of a history lesson on this outpost and its construction. Sergeant Crandell appears amazed by so much information that was unknown to the military leadership. He surmises that the goblins found in the lower halls were there to act as a supply station for the army, including food, water, and other necessities to keep the army on its feet and functioning efficiently. This fuels a decision that the dwarven outpost needs to be explored and cleaned out of anything that might help the enemy.
Before the amalgamated squad beds down, Crandell hands out assignments for the next morning. Vardra is given the task of leading a team to return to the cave entrance and surrounding area to retrieve whatever supplies may still be available, as well as round up the drow if it is still lingering about.. "Sir, if the mounts are still present, what do you want done with them?"
The sergeant also recommends a process for dealing with the collected loot, particularly those items determined to be magical. "Sounds good to me," the private replies. Butternut recommends leaving the unknown items for later and Vardra nods in agreement, as well as to the suggestion that they be held by Wimzy in the meanwhile.
The night passes far too quickly, as it had been deep into the night before they finally were able to seek rest. Other than his duty shift, Vardra sleeps soundly. Rising, he finds that part of the food has already been packed away. Nevertheless, there is plenty to eat since many of the group, including himself, brought up extra from the mounts. After a few quick prayers to his favorite deities, Vardra dons his gear and packs up his food and other supplies.
Leaving his pack near his bed, Vardra starts to assemble his team. He approaches Lucyus, Kendell, Laurel, and Wimzy, and attempts to recruit each of them for the mission. As far as he knows, priests don't usually need a lot of time to study or memorize spells, so hopefully they are available. He also doesn't think any of them can see in the dark, though it is hard to say with a cat priestess, and Butternut seems to defy his understanding that halflings don't have that ability.
Just before they leave, Erisciana approaches and requests that they take a look for a crystal staff that she left behind. "Certainly, Eri," Vardra replies. "Can you describe it? Also, anything you can tell us about where you last saw it may help."
_______________________________________________________________________________
I'm not sure whether Vardra would have heard Kaylessa's comment about 'military intelligence', so I'm assuming not.
Having little else to say on the matter, Vardra just smiles and nods.Butternut wrote:Butternut shares a warrior's grasp with the human warrior. "Can't argue with you there, buddy."
Sergeant Crandell informs everyone of the army they witnessed marching on Fort Graystone. Not surprisingly, this draws quite a bit of discussion. As the sergeant notes, the enemy - and the fort as well - will know what's up once they see the flag flying in the morning. Fortunately, that means that the fort will not be unprepared for the attack. The army had passed the road up to Eagle's Nest when Talon Squad - with Vernar and Butternut - got there; still, Crandell estimates another day before they reach the fort due to the slow pace required by the siege equipment.
Crandell believes that the enemy will set their pace by the siege equipment and won't get ahead of it, to which Lucyus agrees. Vardra shrugs in response. "From the stories I've heard growing up, Sergeant, orcs and goblins and such are often undisciplined and prone to stupid mistakes. From what you've said, I guess this army has better leadership and control over their troops than many of that ilk."
The sergeant takes Vardra's answer to his question about the soldier's involvement in stride. "You may be right, sir. Nevertheless, I'm determined to meet the challenge, whatever it may be."Crandell wrote:“I see,” Sergeant Crandell answers in an even tone. “Seems to me that you've gotten more than you bargained for.”
Sann the dwarf provides a bit of a history lesson on this outpost and its construction. Sergeant Crandell appears amazed by so much information that was unknown to the military leadership. He surmises that the goblins found in the lower halls were there to act as a supply station for the army, including food, water, and other necessities to keep the army on its feet and functioning efficiently. This fuels a decision that the dwarven outpost needs to be explored and cleaned out of anything that might help the enemy.
Before the amalgamated squad beds down, Crandell hands out assignments for the next morning. Vardra is given the task of leading a team to return to the cave entrance and surrounding area to retrieve whatever supplies may still be available, as well as round up the drow if it is still lingering about.. "Sir, if the mounts are still present, what do you want done with them?"
The sergeant also recommends a process for dealing with the collected loot, particularly those items determined to be magical. "Sounds good to me," the private replies. Butternut recommends leaving the unknown items for later and Vardra nods in agreement, as well as to the suggestion that they be held by Wimzy in the meanwhile.
The night passes far too quickly, as it had been deep into the night before they finally were able to seek rest. Other than his duty shift, Vardra sleeps soundly. Rising, he finds that part of the food has already been packed away. Nevertheless, there is plenty to eat since many of the group, including himself, brought up extra from the mounts. After a few quick prayers to his favorite deities, Vardra dons his gear and packs up his food and other supplies.
Leaving his pack near his bed, Vardra starts to assemble his team. He approaches Lucyus, Kendell, Laurel, and Wimzy, and attempts to recruit each of them for the mission. As far as he knows, priests don't usually need a lot of time to study or memorize spells, so hopefully they are available. He also doesn't think any of them can see in the dark, though it is hard to say with a cat priestess, and Butternut seems to defy his understanding that halflings don't have that ability.
Just before they leave, Erisciana approaches and requests that they take a look for a crystal staff that she left behind. "Certainly, Eri," Vardra replies. "Can you describe it? Also, anything you can tell us about where you last saw it may help."
_______________________________________________________________________________
I'm not sure whether Vardra would have heard Kaylessa's comment about 'military intelligence', so I'm assuming not.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Vardra Marcus, PFC:
Vardra supports the suggestion that two of the daggers be given to Ren as a set since he seems to specialize in similar weapons. I'm also assuming that the characters have discussed enough to have a rough idea of what's on everyone's character sheets, at least in regards to weapons and armor.
Plate Mail - LUCYUS
Shield - KENDELL
Small Shield - ERISCIANA
Light Crossbow - BUTTERNUT
10 Crossbow Bolts - GERETT
10 Flight Arrows - FLARE
War Hammer
Longsword - SORVANI
Short Sword- KAYLESSA
Short Sword - VERNAR
Dagger - LAUREL
Dagger - REN
Dagger - REN
Vardra supports the suggestion that two of the daggers be given to Ren as a set since he seems to specialize in similar weapons. I'm also assuming that the characters have discussed enough to have a rough idea of what's on everyone's character sheets, at least in regards to weapons and armor.
Plate Mail - LUCYUS
Shield - KENDELL
Small Shield - ERISCIANA
Light Crossbow - BUTTERNUT
10 Crossbow Bolts - GERETT
10 Flight Arrows - FLARE
War Hammer
Longsword - SORVANI
Short Sword- KAYLESSA
Short Sword - VERNAR
Dagger - LAUREL
Dagger - REN
Dagger - REN
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Kendell:
Butternut: Light crossbow
Erisciana: Small Shield
Flare: 10 Flight Arrows
Gerett: 10 Crossbow Bolts
Kaylessa: Shortsword
Laurel: Shortsword
Lucyus: Plate Mail
Ren: Dagger
Sorvani: Longsword
Vardra: Shield
Vernar: War Hammer
Wimzy: Ring
Butternut: Light crossbow
Erisciana: Small Shield
Flare: 10 Flight Arrows
Gerett: 10 Crossbow Bolts
Kaylessa: Shortsword
Laurel: Shortsword
Lucyus: Plate Mail
Ren: Dagger
Sorvani: Longsword
Vardra: Shield
Vernar: War Hammer
Wimzy: Ring
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Sorvani
Butternut - Light crossbow, 5 Crossbow Bolts
Erisciana - Ring
Flare - Dagger, 5 Flight Arrows
Gerett - War Hammer, 5 Crossbow Bolts
Kaylessa – Short sword, 5 Flight Arrows
Kendell – Longsword
Laurel - Short sword
Lucyus - Shield
Ren - 2 Dagger
Vardra - Plate Mail
Vernar - Short sword
Wimzy - potions
Butternut - Light crossbow, 5 Crossbow Bolts
Erisciana - Ring
Flare - Dagger, 5 Flight Arrows
Gerett - War Hammer, 5 Crossbow Bolts
Kaylessa – Short sword, 5 Flight Arrows
Kendell – Longsword
Laurel - Short sword
Lucyus - Shield
Ren - 2 Dagger
Vardra - Plate Mail
Vernar - Short sword
Wimzy - potions
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Lucyus
Vardra and Crandell continue their discussion of the enemies army. Lucyus listens to both sides.
“If his followers were here, leading these humanoids the it is a safe bet, his followers in part will be leading the other armies,” he says simply as he looks down at the dead priest.
“There was a time you asked what my rank or qualifications were for leading. And I pointed to my holy symbol. The reason I did so was I have been trained since I joined my clergy in war, strategy as well as law. My Clergy defies and will destroy everything that the Herald of Hell stands for. We are the Light as he is the Dark. And the Darkness seems to be growing.”
Lucyus is sharpening his axe when Vardra comes looking for help. “Aye, I’ll help you,” he says evenly as he finishes checking the butterfly edges of his axe. Stowing the axe, Lucyus will gather up his gear and be ready to move.
Vardra and Crandell continue their discussion of the enemies army. Lucyus listens to both sides.
“You are forgetting something, Vardra. Or perhaps you do not know,” he says easily looking between the Sgt and Vardra. “These orcs and goblins were not alone. Do you know the symbol that the priests wore?” he says with a brief pause. ”Hextor,” he spits out,the word feeling venomous in his mouth. ”My sworn enemy. It is why he focused on me when he could have killed Vernar. If you are unaware he is a God of War, focused on massacres, tyranny and discord.”Crandell believes that the enemy will set their pace by the siege equipment and won't get ahead of it, to which Lucyus agrees. Vardra shrugs in response. "From the stories I've heard growing up, Sergeant, orcs and goblins and such are often undisciplined and prone to stupid mistakes. From what you've said, I guess this army has better leadership and control over their troops than many of that ilk."
“If his followers were here, leading these humanoids the it is a safe bet, his followers in part will be leading the other armies,” he says simply as he looks down at the dead priest.
“There was a time you asked what my rank or qualifications were for leading. And I pointed to my holy symbol. The reason I did so was I have been trained since I joined my clergy in war, strategy as well as law. My Clergy defies and will destroy everything that the Herald of Hell stands for. We are the Light as he is the Dark. And the Darkness seems to be growing.”
Lucyus looks to Vardra curiously as he asks the question. “One would assume feed and water them. Make sure they are stabled and ready to ride if needed,” the paladin adds looking between the two.Before the amalgamated squad beds down, Crandell hands out assignments for the next morning. Vardra is given the task of leading a team to return to the cave entrance and surrounding area to retrieve whatever supplies may still be available, as well as round up the drow if it is still lingering about.. "Sir, if the mounts are still present, what do you want done with them?"
Lucyus is sharpening his axe when Vardra comes looking for help. “Aye, I’ll help you,” he says evenly as he finishes checking the butterfly edges of his axe. Stowing the axe, Lucyus will gather up his gear and be ready to move.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Erisciana -
There is talk about the enemy army and it's composition, movement and plans. Crandell estimates that the enemy will need another day to reach Fort Graystone. Not surprising with such an undisciplined force, governed mostly by fear and battlelust. That does work in their favor. Come the morning, Graystone will see the flag flying indicating danger and at least begin preparations.
“They will know what transpired here when they see the danger flag flying and not the all clear flag,” Sergeant Crandell states. “We can only guess what action they will take upon learning of this.”
"That is true. The reasonable action would be to ignore it and push on as the damage is already done. The fort will be warned and the enemy will need to press their attack all the sooner. Likely they would send a vanguard of archers to harass the towers and try to cause trouble before the full force arrives. However, from what we know about Hextor and his followers, those curs could very easily decide that our actions harmed their attack and choose retribution. We could be seeing an even larger force come for our heads," she says solemnly.
"Moving those catapults may be slow-going, even for giants. If the main army gets well ahead of them, it might be possible to damage or destroy the catapults, which could reduce the enemy's ability to take the fort."
“You are dealing with a lot of if’s my friend.” Lucyus says to the private. “Catapults and siege engines are to be treasured and guarded. They would be in the middle of the convoy at best, surrounded by Calvary or infantry. It would be suicide if you followed such a course.” He says simply recalling his training.
“The enemy won't be foolish enough to out distance the catapults,” Sergeant Crandell counters. “Rather the enemy will adjust their pace to those pushing the war machines. They will not be unguarded. They are needed to breach the walls of Fort Graystone.”
Crandell believes that the enemy will set their pace by the siege equipment and won't get ahead of it, to which Lucyus agrees. Vardra shrugs in response. "From the stories I've heard growing up, Sergeant, orcs and goblins and such are often undisciplined and prone to stupid mistakes. From what you've said, I guess this army has better leadership and control over their troops than many of that ilk."
“You are forgetting something, Vardra. Or perhaps you do not know,” he says easily looking between the Sgt and Vardra. “These orcs and goblins were not alone. Do you know the symbol that the priests wore?” he says with a brief pause. ”Hextor,” he spits out,the word feeling venomous in his mouth. ”My sworn enemy. It is why he focused on me when he could have killed Vernar. If you are unaware he is a God of War, focused on massacres, tyranny and discord.”
"Hextor is the main driving force for the enemy in the east. This news has even reached to our lands," Erisciana says. "And my temple in particular takes notice of the machinations of that god of conflict and strife. Hextor styles himself as a lord of war." She sneers as she says those words. "His followers play at war like evil children. Capricious. Emotional. Even diabolical. They are dangerous however, to be sure. And powerful. We had been receiving word through the caravans and adventurers that Hextor's power was rising even more. Clearly the stories have been true."
"While the enemy may consist mostly of humanoids: goblins, ogres and more, the leadership is Hextor. And they will not hesitate to sacrifice their underlings to accomplish their goal. Also we should expect them to act from spite, revenge, avarice and hate." Erisicana will pause a moment. "I look forward to defeating their evil pursuits!"
“If his followers were here, leading these humanoids the it is a safe bet, his followers in part will be leading the other armies,” he says simply as he looks down at the dead priest.
“There was a time you asked what my rank or qualifications were for leading. And I pointed to my holy symbol. The reason I did so was I have been trained since I joined my clergy in war, strategy as well as law. My Clergy defies and will destroy everything that the Herald of Hell stands for. We are the Light as he is the Dark. And the Darkness seems to be growing.”
The priestess looks to the paladin a moment and smiles. "We have a mutual goal, my friend. Hextor may be the opposite force to your patron Heironeous, but the vile cur infringes directly upon the righteous domain of the Queen of Heaven. The Hextorites twist and manipulate the honorable nature of War. They must be defeated."
Erisciana is concerned about their food supplies, and proposes rationing them. Joining in the conversation, Lucyus estimates that they have sufficient food left for several days, which seems likely to Butternut. The priestess' comment about goblin food causes her to crinkle her nose in distaste. "I've seen what goblins eat, and most of it is not edible for the rest of us."
"It may be more than several days before we can resupply food easily, unless we do find some hidden storage. We seem to be caught between the army attacking Fort Graystone and Gateway itself. Even purified, I am not sure we could live for long on goblin food. Hopefully there is something more edible there."
--------------------------------------------
In the morning, should there be time after her necessary tasks are completed and before both groups return from their missions, the priestess will go to the observation tower to keep the lookout company, but also to see what transpires down in the valley below.
There is talk about the enemy army and it's composition, movement and plans. Crandell estimates that the enemy will need another day to reach Fort Graystone. Not surprising with such an undisciplined force, governed mostly by fear and battlelust. That does work in their favor. Come the morning, Graystone will see the flag flying indicating danger and at least begin preparations.
“They will know what transpired here when they see the danger flag flying and not the all clear flag,” Sergeant Crandell states. “We can only guess what action they will take upon learning of this.”
"That is true. The reasonable action would be to ignore it and push on as the damage is already done. The fort will be warned and the enemy will need to press their attack all the sooner. Likely they would send a vanguard of archers to harass the towers and try to cause trouble before the full force arrives. However, from what we know about Hextor and his followers, those curs could very easily decide that our actions harmed their attack and choose retribution. We could be seeing an even larger force come for our heads," she says solemnly.
"Moving those catapults may be slow-going, even for giants. If the main army gets well ahead of them, it might be possible to damage or destroy the catapults, which could reduce the enemy's ability to take the fort."
“You are dealing with a lot of if’s my friend.” Lucyus says to the private. “Catapults and siege engines are to be treasured and guarded. They would be in the middle of the convoy at best, surrounded by Calvary or infantry. It would be suicide if you followed such a course.” He says simply recalling his training.
“The enemy won't be foolish enough to out distance the catapults,” Sergeant Crandell counters. “Rather the enemy will adjust their pace to those pushing the war machines. They will not be unguarded. They are needed to breach the walls of Fort Graystone.”
Crandell believes that the enemy will set their pace by the siege equipment and won't get ahead of it, to which Lucyus agrees. Vardra shrugs in response. "From the stories I've heard growing up, Sergeant, orcs and goblins and such are often undisciplined and prone to stupid mistakes. From what you've said, I guess this army has better leadership and control over their troops than many of that ilk."
“You are forgetting something, Vardra. Or perhaps you do not know,” he says easily looking between the Sgt and Vardra. “These orcs and goblins were not alone. Do you know the symbol that the priests wore?” he says with a brief pause. ”Hextor,” he spits out,the word feeling venomous in his mouth. ”My sworn enemy. It is why he focused on me when he could have killed Vernar. If you are unaware he is a God of War, focused on massacres, tyranny and discord.”
"Hextor is the main driving force for the enemy in the east. This news has even reached to our lands," Erisciana says. "And my temple in particular takes notice of the machinations of that god of conflict and strife. Hextor styles himself as a lord of war." She sneers as she says those words. "His followers play at war like evil children. Capricious. Emotional. Even diabolical. They are dangerous however, to be sure. And powerful. We had been receiving word through the caravans and adventurers that Hextor's power was rising even more. Clearly the stories have been true."
"While the enemy may consist mostly of humanoids: goblins, ogres and more, the leadership is Hextor. And they will not hesitate to sacrifice their underlings to accomplish their goal. Also we should expect them to act from spite, revenge, avarice and hate." Erisicana will pause a moment. "I look forward to defeating their evil pursuits!"
“If his followers were here, leading these humanoids the it is a safe bet, his followers in part will be leading the other armies,” he says simply as he looks down at the dead priest.
“There was a time you asked what my rank or qualifications were for leading. And I pointed to my holy symbol. The reason I did so was I have been trained since I joined my clergy in war, strategy as well as law. My Clergy defies and will destroy everything that the Herald of Hell stands for. We are the Light as he is the Dark. And the Darkness seems to be growing.”
The priestess looks to the paladin a moment and smiles. "We have a mutual goal, my friend. Hextor may be the opposite force to your patron Heironeous, but the vile cur infringes directly upon the righteous domain of the Queen of Heaven. The Hextorites twist and manipulate the honorable nature of War. They must be defeated."
Erisciana is concerned about their food supplies, and proposes rationing them. Joining in the conversation, Lucyus estimates that they have sufficient food left for several days, which seems likely to Butternut. The priestess' comment about goblin food causes her to crinkle her nose in distaste. "I've seen what goblins eat, and most of it is not edible for the rest of us."
"It may be more than several days before we can resupply food easily, unless we do find some hidden storage. We seem to be caught between the army attacking Fort Graystone and Gateway itself. Even purified, I am not sure we could live for long on goblin food. Hopefully there is something more edible there."
--------------------------------------------
In the morning, should there be time after her necessary tasks are completed and before both groups return from their missions, the priestess will go to the observation tower to keep the lookout company, but also to see what transpires down in the valley below.
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
It's an odd question, but not entirely out of place. Gerett gives a start and looks down at his heel, where Mitch is standing dutifully and staring up at him, as if it were perfectly natural for the badger to be there. "Hells, I forgot he was here. Badger, I think. But he seems to think he's a wolfhound. Mitch, go dig yourself something to eat." The badger tosses its head and slowly plods forward, nonplussed. "Not from the table!" Gerett calls after. "Fool thing acts like I'm some sort of houndsman," he says to Kendell. "He''s got spirit, though. I'm Gerett. Your name?"Kendell wrote:“Is that a weasel?”
"Gerett, crossbow and pikeman, I suppose. Not quite as ecletic a skillset as yours. You folk have quite the useful lot of trades among ye, it seems."Sorvani wrote:“Sorvani”, he will say when introductions are made. “Mage and swordsman.”
"Rockhome, sort of. My station was less of a station and more of a route, so I lived mostly in hills and forests. Not that I mind beds, though anyone who watched me the last few years might think I did."Kaylessa wrote:“Your welcome.” She says simply as she takes the wineskin back and takes a swig. “It is a short run when humanoids are at your heels.” She says simply taking another sip and then capping it. “Where do you hail from?” she asks curiously attempting to get to know the dwarf.
"I've been an enlisted dwarf my whole life. But mercenary work is starting to grow on me. The flow of coin seems to be the one predictable pattern for nobility. And you lot seem a sight more practical...and perhaps as tired of bluebloods as I am."Vardra wrote:Joining the army's new adventurer corps was just an opportunity that popped up at the right time. "Well, then their loss is our gain, it would seem."
"True. But if the woods and rocky rills make them string out their forces, they might have few enough around the catapults that we could ambush one or two and disable it before the bulk of the force can wheel back around. That sort of job would probably take all of us, though, and quite a bit of tactical acumen."Crandell wrote:“The enemy won't be foolish enough to out distance the catapults,” Sergeant Crandell counters. “Rather the enemy will adjust their pace to those pushing the war machines. They will not be unguarded. They are needed to breach the walls of Fort Graystone.”
"Aye, even with catapults a siege takes time, and a sieging army has to account for its own food or it may as well be under siege too. The enemy knows we've got the fort, but they might not know we have found the secret part o' it, so mebbe we can catch 'em off guard if the rations never show up at the battle line."Crandell wrote:“There's a base down there filled with goblins?” Sergeant Crandell asks. “That can't be a coincidence. The enemy uses goblins as their foot soldiers. They might be using this old dwarven base as a supply depot. I bet that have food and supplies stored there for the main army to draw upon. After all, they have to feed all those troops and the giants. That's a lot of food and water and without knowing how long a siege would last they would need supplies. If we can deny them these supplies, it will weaken the enemy army in time. An enemy looses much of its fight when its starving. We will need to explore this dwarven lair.”
Gerett watches as Laurel's eyes seem to glaze over. He imagines she is casting a spell but it could also be her natural absentmindedness. The girl has proven herself to know her own abilities, and when she announces that she has found a way into the secret chamber, he is not much surprised that her method ends up working. It is quite satisfying, and opens up the range of possibilities for the next day.After casting her spell, a vision appears before Laurel's eyes.
Crandell wrote:“Private Vardra,” Sergeant Crandell continues. “Once it is light out, take a small force down the ramp. Round up the mounts and see if that drow is in the area. Given their dislike of light, she probably took shelter somewhere. Recover what supplies we can. In the day time, we have the advantage. Let's make use of it.”
“Vernar,” Sergeant Crandell says turning to the dwarf. “Gather up a unit who can see in the dark and explore down those stairs. Scout out what is down there and report back. We'll make further plans based on what you discover.”
The Sergeant gives the troop of heroes(or perhaps a troupe, he thinks to himself wryly) their tasks for the next day. As he takes his watch and eventually his rest, Gerett mulls over the two plans in case he is offered a choice. There's enough of a group to reasonably split the party, and both tasks are ones that should be seen to as quickly as possible. Gerett himself feels more at home with the martially-minded members of the group, but no one so far has been rude to him--he has certainly fit in better than a human would if one had joined his band of dwarves.Erisciana wrote:"I may be able to Purify the food, but I am not yet powerful enough to Create food from thin air, as yet," she comments. "If the enemy was indeed storing food and supplies below, then it will not be such a problem. Although what the goblins consider food may indeed require purifying before we partake of it,"
As morning comes and the early risers converse over breakfast, the topic of food comes up. Gerett is used to rising early and helps prepare food for the rest as he can. But thinking on the two tasks at hand and Eris' comment about food, he has an idea.
"If we're to send folk outside to check on the mounts, that may be a better source of food than the goblins' piles. If this fort was well placed, there's likely to be natural food sources of some sort not too far away. Fresh water, too. Shouldn't take too much extra time beyond rounding up the horses for some skilled folk to forage for greens or berries or shoot us some hares or grouse. It'll be good for us all to get fresh food anyway, if we're to be below for a long time." Gerett realizes as he says this that it probably sounds strange to the others, coming from him. After all, many dwarves spend their entire lives underground. But it was trade and expeditions--from Gerett's group and others--that brought fresh foods and goods from the surface. Though few would admit it, even mountain dwarves would eventually miss the shipments of the sun's produce to complement their gamey livestock and mushrooms.
"Anyway, I can see well enough in the dark of course, so I'd be happy to go into the secret room. But I can also hunt and forage, so if you all do think that's a worthwhile endeavor I can go out to fetch the horses."
---------------------------------
While they break their fast, the members of the group begin a formulaic process to vote upon the dispersal of goods. It all seems like overkill to Gerett, but then, he's used to a cadre of dwarves with a common purpose. Conflict over the loot is possible and anything that avoids it is preferable. In the end, Gerett judges himself ill equipped to make any kind of vote, and his contribution seems unnecessary as so many others have weighed in already. If pressed for an opinion, or if a tiebreaker is needed, Gerett is ready to do his part and give a vote. But he does not speak up to do so unless asked, content to watch the loot be divvyed out as the senior members of the group deem fair.
---------------------------------
Lucyus and Erisciana bandy about the topic of the military discipline of the enemy and some theology about war. Gerett supposes he should not interject, unqualified as he is to discuss theology. But for a reason he can't discern he pipes up anyway. "Honorable nature of war? I guess. Blood and honor just seems like something people like to shout before they fight--and shouting while fighting always seemed a bit daft ta' me. Whether it's spitting rage or some sort of religious oath. I mean no offense to either of ye:" Gerett raises up a hand, realizing too late what he has implied. "I mean, war is needed, and mebbe even gods are needed when it comes to these madmen who try to fight for tyranny and chaos and all that. I certainly can get behind that. But if these goblins and crazy humans and deep dwarves and such are children playing at war, it seems ta' me that we're just adults who are better at playing war. Still a game, just one with rules and strategies. So if the goblins are throwing marbles, the best we're doing is moving draughts around.
"I mean, we gotta do what we gotta do. I don't want them monsters getting ahold of Greystone and I'll kill any of the vermin we need to ta' do so, and prolly more 'n we need to if we come across them. But I don't know about tha' notion of war being some high and mighty thin' with glory and purpose and all that." Gerett shrugs and brushes the crumbs out of his beard. "But the two o' you know more about this than me. Just an old soldier musing, anyhow."
-Michael
Re: Operation: Graystone #16
Erisciana -
There is a discussion about the enemy force and their supposed tactics. Gerett chimes in with his own comments.
"True. But if the woods and rocky rills make them string out their forces, they might have few enough around the catapults that we could ambush one or two and disable it before the bulk of the force can wheel back around. That sort of job would probably take all of us, though, and quite a bit of tactical acumen."
The priestess smiles at the dwarf's comment. "I was considering the same possibility myself. A quick moving force meant simply to harass and confound the enemy. Cause some casualties, do some damage and get away before they can muster forces. Possibly even draw away a contingent and bluff them into an ambush. It's dangerous, but the tactic has merit."
As the priestess and the paladin of Heironeous start to discuss and explain the nature of Hextor and his vile followers, the dwarf Gerett adds his own perspective to the conversation. As he brings forth questions of the honor of war and his own personal perceptions, Erisciana's eyes light up and the tiredness in her face is suddenly suppressed. A slight smile forms on her lips as she listens intently to his dialogue. She nods, still silent, when he mentions that he does not intend offense with his words, waiting for him to continue.
This is exactly the type of conversation which the priestess relished. So many confused the differences between battle, conflict and war. War was so much more than mere strife and fighting. She notes some of the points he intends to make and then the dwarf ends his thoughts.
"I mean, we gotta do what we gotta do. I don't want them monsters getting ahold of Greystone and I'll kill any of the vermin we need to ta' do so, and prolly more 'n we need to if we come across them. But I don't know about tha' notion of war being some high and mighty thin' with glory and purpose and all that." Gerett shrugs and brushes the crumbs out of his beard. "But the two o' you know more about this than me. Just an old soldier musing, anyhow."
The priestess looks up at the paladin a moment, but cannot wait to interject her own thoughts. "Oh my dear Gerett, you don't know the depths of the discussion you have opined upon," she says with a happy smile. "If it were not so late, I would be happy to exchange beliefs and convictions regarding this topic. Afterall, it is one of the tenets of my faith. However, it is very late and we all need rest. I would love to pick up this topic sometime tomorrow, should you so desire. In the meantime, I will leave you with this thought: War is much more than conflict, strife, battle and struggle, although it encompasses all of those things and more. War is a state of being, a state of mind. We are all at War, with others and even more so with ourselves." Erisci pauses a moment and the tiredness of the day starts to encroach once more into her enthusiasm. "But now is the time for rest and recovery."
--------------------------
There is continued talk about the food and possible food stores in the goblin / dwarf tunnels.
"Aye, even with catapults a siege takes time, and a sieging army has to account for its own food or it may as well be under siege too. The enemy knows we've got the fort, but they might not know we have found the secret part o' it, so mebbe we can catch 'em off guard if the rations never show up at the battle line."
"It is unfortunate we are not prepared nor able to move out at first light. This day has been a struggle of its own certainly. We could do more damage if we could strike before the enemy is aware, but there are still many opportunities for surprise and ways that we can lessen the attack on Graystone."
------------------------
Gerett mentions getting fresh water as well as some food gathering options.
"There is a large stream not far from here that we can refresh all of our needs for water. But the possibility of a warm meal that isn't from our rations sounds divine."
Vardra asks what her crystal tipped rod looks like, when she asks if they can try to locate it. Hopefully that opportunistic draw did not abscond with it. "It is a wooden staff, about my own height," she says, motioning with her hand to show its length. "It has a crystal at the top. A blue crystal in a silver setting. I left it propped against the cave wall near where my horse had been tied off. I would appreciate it if you were able to locate it and return it to me."
-----------------------
The next day Erisci will find a time to at least comment to Gerett somewhat on their conversation from the night before. She's not certain that he is ready or willing for a philosophical discussion, and so does her best to keep from over-exuberance. Her thoughts drift a moment and consider that when she introduced herself, he remained silent. Maybe he had something against Zakharians. She wondered. Sitting down nearby, she will offer a piece of dried meat to Gerett's badger companion.
"So Gerett, you discount the notion that war has a noble purpose. Yet you also concede that we need to fight this enemy that threatens Fort Graystone. In this case, such an enemy is an immediate threat. Our groups have been stationed there, it is our temporary home. It is simply a military target, to be certain. A simple conflict to defend ourselves could hardly be described as noble. Most likely it is merely self protection. On the surface a conflict not unlike thousands that have taken place before and thousands more that will happen long after we join our patrons in the next life."
"But is it?" She raises a finger to make her point. "If Fort Graystone falls, then the valley to Eastern Cynalon is open. Crossroads is threatened. As are numerous villages and settlements beyond. Will the enemy stop at Graystone? If that falls will they stop at Crossroads? If one implies the transitive nature of this threat, then we all have been threatened, not just personally, but against those very things which we cherish most. Perhaps it is a loved one, or a sacred location, or a special memory. The enemy who is not honorable seeks to crush all of those unique and dear ideals. They are engaging in fear-mongering, terror, massacre, wanton bloodshed. However, when we fight not for ourselves, but for a greater purpose, then honor is found within War. It is much more than a code of conduct or rules of engagement. It is certainly not about fame, or even glory, although some often confuse honor with glory and fame."
"If we were to engage the enemy in the pass and somehow defeat them or even break their will and rout them back to whence they came and we all died in the conflict, and no one knew that we were the ones involved, that would be a truly honorable act of War. It would be done not for ourselves but ultimately for what we held most dear. In truth it would be done out of Love. And that brings us around to the other tenet of Ishtar. After all, Love and War are not opposites." The priestess looks over to Sorvani when she says that and catching his attention, smiles. They had touched on this very subject when first introduced but had not the time to deepen the discussion while in the tunnels below.
"Love and War are two sides of a single-sided coin," she says knowingly.
There is a discussion about the enemy force and their supposed tactics. Gerett chimes in with his own comments.
"True. But if the woods and rocky rills make them string out their forces, they might have few enough around the catapults that we could ambush one or two and disable it before the bulk of the force can wheel back around. That sort of job would probably take all of us, though, and quite a bit of tactical acumen."
The priestess smiles at the dwarf's comment. "I was considering the same possibility myself. A quick moving force meant simply to harass and confound the enemy. Cause some casualties, do some damage and get away before they can muster forces. Possibly even draw away a contingent and bluff them into an ambush. It's dangerous, but the tactic has merit."
As the priestess and the paladin of Heironeous start to discuss and explain the nature of Hextor and his vile followers, the dwarf Gerett adds his own perspective to the conversation. As he brings forth questions of the honor of war and his own personal perceptions, Erisciana's eyes light up and the tiredness in her face is suddenly suppressed. A slight smile forms on her lips as she listens intently to his dialogue. She nods, still silent, when he mentions that he does not intend offense with his words, waiting for him to continue.
This is exactly the type of conversation which the priestess relished. So many confused the differences between battle, conflict and war. War was so much more than mere strife and fighting. She notes some of the points he intends to make and then the dwarf ends his thoughts.
"I mean, we gotta do what we gotta do. I don't want them monsters getting ahold of Greystone and I'll kill any of the vermin we need to ta' do so, and prolly more 'n we need to if we come across them. But I don't know about tha' notion of war being some high and mighty thin' with glory and purpose and all that." Gerett shrugs and brushes the crumbs out of his beard. "But the two o' you know more about this than me. Just an old soldier musing, anyhow."
The priestess looks up at the paladin a moment, but cannot wait to interject her own thoughts. "Oh my dear Gerett, you don't know the depths of the discussion you have opined upon," she says with a happy smile. "If it were not so late, I would be happy to exchange beliefs and convictions regarding this topic. Afterall, it is one of the tenets of my faith. However, it is very late and we all need rest. I would love to pick up this topic sometime tomorrow, should you so desire. In the meantime, I will leave you with this thought: War is much more than conflict, strife, battle and struggle, although it encompasses all of those things and more. War is a state of being, a state of mind. We are all at War, with others and even more so with ourselves." Erisci pauses a moment and the tiredness of the day starts to encroach once more into her enthusiasm. "But now is the time for rest and recovery."
--------------------------
There is continued talk about the food and possible food stores in the goblin / dwarf tunnels.
"Aye, even with catapults a siege takes time, and a sieging army has to account for its own food or it may as well be under siege too. The enemy knows we've got the fort, but they might not know we have found the secret part o' it, so mebbe we can catch 'em off guard if the rations never show up at the battle line."
"It is unfortunate we are not prepared nor able to move out at first light. This day has been a struggle of its own certainly. We could do more damage if we could strike before the enemy is aware, but there are still many opportunities for surprise and ways that we can lessen the attack on Graystone."
------------------------
Gerett mentions getting fresh water as well as some food gathering options.
"There is a large stream not far from here that we can refresh all of our needs for water. But the possibility of a warm meal that isn't from our rations sounds divine."
Vardra asks what her crystal tipped rod looks like, when she asks if they can try to locate it. Hopefully that opportunistic draw did not abscond with it. "It is a wooden staff, about my own height," she says, motioning with her hand to show its length. "It has a crystal at the top. A blue crystal in a silver setting. I left it propped against the cave wall near where my horse had been tied off. I would appreciate it if you were able to locate it and return it to me."
-----------------------
The next day Erisci will find a time to at least comment to Gerett somewhat on their conversation from the night before. She's not certain that he is ready or willing for a philosophical discussion, and so does her best to keep from over-exuberance. Her thoughts drift a moment and consider that when she introduced herself, he remained silent. Maybe he had something against Zakharians. She wondered. Sitting down nearby, she will offer a piece of dried meat to Gerett's badger companion.
"So Gerett, you discount the notion that war has a noble purpose. Yet you also concede that we need to fight this enemy that threatens Fort Graystone. In this case, such an enemy is an immediate threat. Our groups have been stationed there, it is our temporary home. It is simply a military target, to be certain. A simple conflict to defend ourselves could hardly be described as noble. Most likely it is merely self protection. On the surface a conflict not unlike thousands that have taken place before and thousands more that will happen long after we join our patrons in the next life."
"But is it?" She raises a finger to make her point. "If Fort Graystone falls, then the valley to Eastern Cynalon is open. Crossroads is threatened. As are numerous villages and settlements beyond. Will the enemy stop at Graystone? If that falls will they stop at Crossroads? If one implies the transitive nature of this threat, then we all have been threatened, not just personally, but against those very things which we cherish most. Perhaps it is a loved one, or a sacred location, or a special memory. The enemy who is not honorable seeks to crush all of those unique and dear ideals. They are engaging in fear-mongering, terror, massacre, wanton bloodshed. However, when we fight not for ourselves, but for a greater purpose, then honor is found within War. It is much more than a code of conduct or rules of engagement. It is certainly not about fame, or even glory, although some often confuse honor with glory and fame."
"If we were to engage the enemy in the pass and somehow defeat them or even break their will and rout them back to whence they came and we all died in the conflict, and no one knew that we were the ones involved, that would be a truly honorable act of War. It would be done not for ourselves but ultimately for what we held most dear. In truth it would be done out of Love. And that brings us around to the other tenet of Ishtar. After all, Love and War are not opposites." The priestess looks over to Sorvani when she says that and catching his attention, smiles. They had touched on this very subject when first introduced but had not the time to deepen the discussion while in the tunnels below.
"Love and War are two sides of a single-sided coin," she says knowingly.