Operation: Graystone #19

[GM Mad]

Operation: Graystone #19

April 13th, CR 569

“You are welcome.”He says as he feels the halfling get settled behind him. “In truth, I do not know much of your people. How big do your families tend to be? My parents decided to stop at three children.”

“Halfling families tend to live together,” Wimzy explains. “So I grew up with my brothers and sisters, my parents, my aunts and uncles, and my cousins, and my grandparents, and so. Our families tend to be large, but its not an issue as we don't take up a lot of space.”


It is suspected that a supply caravan from the main enemy army will be arriving at the goblin lair. Sergeant Crandell wants to ambush this caravan and the combined Squads are checking out a good spot and going over various tactics.

"My dear Vernar, I did not intend to insult any of our manly members with my question. I am certainly not a woodsman, but even I could fell a tree given enough time and a suitable axe. That is not my point. I have heard enough about the subject to know that one does not chop a tree and it magickally falls exactly where one wants it without some considerable measure of skill. Crandell was implying that we drop trees upon stopped wagons."

“I was merely offering suggestions,” Crandell will say, “much like the rest of you were providing. I never claimed that it was a good suggestion. A leader needs to take in a situation, hear the opinions of others and decide what could work and what won't work. I've cut down a few trees in my time and they rarely land exactly where I want them to. Specifically trying to hit a target with a cut down tree would be a remarkable achievement. While the tactic sounds good in theory, in reality its more of a hit or miss proposition.”

After several long moments of contemplation, she speaks up again. “We have too many variables as it is now. We cannot be certain when the caravan is coming and we have no way to find out and communicate that except for Flare’s avian friend. Our spellcasters are unprepared for battle and need time to ready themselves for battle.”

“Those who are new to command can be overwhelmed such as the priestess is describing,” Sergeant Crandell notes. “Come up with ideas is easy. Coming up with ideas that work can be hard, especially when lives are on the line. There are many factors to consider and some that can be overlooked. While I certainly don't have this ability, I have heard tales of those leaders who not only implement their strategy, but also take into account the reactions of those they are fighting.”

“I propose that we plan to attack the caravan on its return trip rather than on its way to the garrison. Even if they travel through tonight, the loading by hand likely will take a long time. Especially with the garrison now short handed after the Stone Golem’s rampage. Also they will likely be less on guard on the return, thinking that there was no ambush so perhaps it is safe.”

“I like that notion,” Sergeant Crandell adds. “It plays against the enemies expectations. And if they are using wagons, then we'll be able to capture a few and not have to load the supplies ourselves.”

She pauses for a moment and looks at those gathered here, gauging their reactions before continuing on. “We only have to contain them on the return and the felling of trees will be sufficient to stop their escape at that point. We can cast a magical Darkness onto the fallen trees so they are not seen, perhaps augmented with the Phantasms to launch our ambush.”

“We can prepare the trees this day. Perhaps set up scouts to watch if they pass tonight. We will be in our fortress in the mountain for safety and in case the enemy tries to strike us there again. We will be able to rest and reset Magicks for optimal use. Perhaps we even fell one tree this day as well as dig a trench across the road to slow them down and make their return trip delayed more to daylight. Then we ambush them here.” She looks at the others expectantly.

“There is much wisdom in your words.” Lucyus says to the priestess. “If we scout the caravan we can gauge the force of them, who is guarding them and determine their strengths and weaknesses. Furthermore the wagons or carts will be burdened by the weight of supplies. It would be easier for our soften earth spell and Erisiciana’s ditches to take hold, giving us the opportunity to attack in force.” He says simply looking at the others. “If we prep the ditches, infuse the oil after they pass, as Erisciana’s plan and the trees as was suggested we can hamper the enemy convoy and have no need to box them in from behind.”

“We will have to hit them hard, possibly retreating and hitting them again if needed.” He says looking at the Sgt and then the others. “It may not be ideal and it has it risks but what plan doesn’t.”

“And this is a better way to bring the downing of trees into play,” Sergeant Crandell adds. “as they can be felled before the caravan leaves the supply depot. This seems like a good plan.”

"You are right, sergeant, that we don't know when they'll arrive. Thus, we will need to find out. We should have the scouts take turns watching the first fork back there and the path down to the main road. Whoever is on duty when the caravan approaches can assess their forces and then come notify the rest of us. We may also want to collect supplies from the Eagle's Nest, and then set up camp just far enough uphill from that split that it won't be noticed by the caravan. That way, we can respond more quickly once we get word from the scout, and also may give the spell-casters more time to rest and regain spells."

“The only problem with that is that we loose the defensive position that Eagle's Nest offers us,” Sergeant Crandell notes. “If they are expecting trouble, they may have scouts of their own looking for us. Given the choice, I would rather rest at a strong defensive position.”

Taking a quick sip of water, Vardra continues. "At this point, we will need to make a decision. Depending on what we learn from the scouts, we can either go ahead with an attack in the spot we selected, or look for another option. If they seem too strong to take in a straight-up ambush, then we should follow them to Bollo's Shield; they may actually split themselves up, which could give us an opportunity to take them on in groups. In particular, I suspect that many of the leaders will be inclined to go meet with the goblin chief down in his chambers, leaving mostly the underlings to various duties such as guarding the wagons and loading supplies.

"Again, time of day will make a big difference in our plans as well. Since a number of us - including myself - cannot see in the dark, we may not want to engage them at night at all. If we do choose to, we'll need to try to provide as much light as possible in order to level the playing field, including torches and light spells.

"Speaking of which, it occurs to me that the real goal here is to prevent them from resupplying. Taking out the enemy force would be great, but if we can stop the resupply, that will still help our army significantly. One option for doing so may be to throw oil vials onto the wagons, and then light the oil with thrown torches, burning arrows, or spells. This has the added bonus of providing more light if we need to fight at night. I know it would be great to capture the wagons, but I think we should be willing to sacrifice them if need be. The Hextorites won't be able to transport anywhere near as much food and supplies without the wagons."

“That is my thinking as well,” Sergeant Crandell says. “Slow the caravan's progress, capture the supplies if able or destroy them instead. We will make use of the supplies or no one will.”

Not really used to talking this much, Vardra pauses a second to collect his thoughts. "Should we decide to go forward with the ambush, my thoughts align with Erisciana and the others in regard to attacking them on the trip back. This has many advantages: it allows longer for the spell-casters to rest and recover their spells, should move us closer to morning if they come at night, heavily-laden wagons will move slower and may be more susceptible to traps we lay as Lucyus pointed out, moving uphill may slow them further even though it isn't a steep slope, and Erisciana noted that they may be less on guard.

“That's what we're going to do,” Sergeant Crandell states. “We'll finish up here and then ride back to Eagle's Nest to rest for the night. Then at first light we'll ride back here and see just how big this caravan is and finalize our plans to stop them.”

[GM Mad]

Vardra nods to Sergeant Crandell. "You made a good point that bringing down trees is a two-edged sword. While they can effectively block the road, they can also block line of sight and hamper our tactics once we engage, as well as alerting the enemy to the ambush. I also don't see spreading oil on the ground as being a good idea, as it will likely soak into the ground somewhat and not burn well; though it could generate a lot of dark smoke that would also block sight lines and draw unwanted attention. It might be best to have Gerett prepare a few trees ahead-of-time for easy felling, then keep them in reserve in case we need a big distraction to help us disengage or disrupt the enemy.”

“The one thing that gets overlooked when it comes to spreading oil is that it smells and people could notice its presence that way,” Sergeant Crandell adds. “Some races have a more sensitive sense of smell than others.”

"We also need a plan for disengagement of things turn bad. Dropping some trees on the caravan could be part of that. We should agree to a signal to indicate an orderly retreat. Those in melee would then fight defensively as they move back to rejoin those engaged primarily at range. Wimzy and Laurel as primary healers can serve as the collection points on either side of the road for the teams to link up. The two groups would then work to regroup at our camp up the road, depending on the level of pursuit. As Lucyus said, we may be in a position to hit them multiple times as they work their way down to the main road.

"As for groupings, I agree that it makes sense to work in two- and three-person teams. I recommend mixing the ranged teams with both a spell-caster and a non-spell-caster as much as possible. As best I can tell, Lucyus, Kendell, and Vernar are our primary front-line fighters as none of them appear to have significant ranged capability. We may want to team then with Kaylessa, Erisciana, and Gerett or myself who can also serve in that capacity.”

“I would disagree with Vernar being a front line fighter.” Looking to the soldier then to Vernar, “No offense my good dwarf, His armor is not the best protection as Kendell or Myself. Even your armor would provide better protection for yourself and the others behind you. Besides, I have seen you cut goblin’s in half with your blade.”

"Depends on your definition of 'front,' my friend," Vernar replies. "My front not always being their front, if you know what I be meanin'." Still, Vernar understands that charging against a line in only studded leather will likely test his luck more than necessary, he relents. "You be puttin' me where I be best, and do not worry none 'bout the body count. I can keep up."

“Vernar functions as a scout in this unit,” Sergeant Crandell says to Vardra. “That's not to say he can't hold his own in a fight, but with the kind of engagement you are talking about, you want those with the heaviest armor up front. That would be Kendell, Lucyus and yourself. He and Ren would be more useful moving behind enemy lines, taking out enemy spell casters from behind and other such targets.”

"Also, I'm coming to the realization that there is a vast difference between commanding military troops and leading a group of adventurers like this one. In the military, they provide virtually all of the soldier's training, so they know exactly what their skills and abilities are. Also, they divide them into a small number of specific types - such as swordsmen, pikemen, archers, cavalry, and so on - and give everyone in each type identical training. That training includes drilling in working as a coordinated team.”

“Which is why these squads are not treated strictly as a military unit,” Sergeant Crandell speaks up. “As you noted Vardra, there is little to no training and each military unit can be specialized and trained to work in unison with other units. Things are more open here as are the range of possible tactics.”

"Here, each one of us received unique training by a wide variety of people and organizations, some very far away," Vardra states with a nod to Erisciana. "I'm not sure it is even possible for any one of us to know exactly what everyone in the group is capable of. And we certainly have not been drilled in working together in a coordinated manner. Some have even gone so far as to question the need for designated leadership." Vardra turns and gives Butternut a pointed look. "While I don't agree with that notion, I think we're going to have to learn to respect and rely on each other, and grant everyone the freedom to think for themselves. As we've heard during this very discussion, there are a lot of bright people here with good ideas to contribute. Listening to those ideas and working together is our best hope for both survival and success."

“A good leader learns what those in his command can do best and puts them in a position to maximize their skills,” Sergeant Crandell says. “That is how a group like this will succeed. Play to your strengths and try to limit the enemy exploiting your weaknesses.”

Erisci returns the nod. "That is exactly what I was saying when we set up camp outside the cave not so long ago," she says quietly. She then continues, after a moment. "We need a hand to direct everyone, to give structure and form to the ideas, else they become bogged down in incessant discussion. We need to let people do what they do best, but direct them in a coordinated effort. Simply put, we need to become a team or we need to put in our time or else just walk away. We could endlessly argue and debate like worthless minor politicians each hoping to have our way. Or this could be our baptism of fire. We have the opportunity to become a real force for good."

"But we do need to begin our preparations. With the exceedingly late night we just experienced, several of our number were not even awake before mid-day. After our excursions and coming here, it is approaching time for the evening meal, which judging by the position of the sun and the emptiness of my stomach both confirm that!"

"There are tools in Eagles Nest," Erisci responds. The day is starting to grow later, approaching early evening. "But you are correct, the day is not long remaining."

“Let mount up and begin to ride back to Eagle's Nest,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “I'd rather not be out in the open during the night time. I like the idea of having setting up a watch to see if the enemy is approaching. However, those on watch should be positioned at the base of Eagle's Nest. The stretch of road that leads up the base of the ramp is wide open, so an advancing enemy could be spotted long before they are close. Plus an eye could be kept on our horses. Should an enemy force approach, try to lead them up the ramp and let the dwarven trap take care of them for us.”

“Come the morning, will will return to this area, scout out the size of the caravan and decide our final strategy. This has been a very productive meeting. Rest well tonight, as tomorrow promises to be a long day.”

Laurel grins to herself as her hands make their way down the cats sides and up his arching tail. She flicks the shed fur off of her fingers before scratching the cats ears once more. "Trust me, I'd rather exploring those ruins under our feet, but war is war and happens when it happens. Right now Sgt. Crandell is the boss, so here we are. At least we are in a good position to help defend the Crossroads. If it should fall to these heathens imagine the knowledge that would be lost forever!"

“That is the toll of war,” the cat mews in response. “It leaves death and destruction in its wake.”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

As noted above, the plan is to return to Eagle's Nest and rest up for the evening. Spell casters are to retool their lists for the battle to come.

Volunteers will be needed to keep watch by the horses and the road up to the Eagle's Nest. The enemy going to the goblin lair is fine, after all, this plan counts on it!

Now what?

[Erisciana]

Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar -

Crandell makes more comments regarding the ongoing developing plan. She rolls her eyes briefly when Crandell admits that his suggestion about felling trees may not have been a good one. Obviously while he was trying to test them and bring out their leadership abilities or trying to help the group develop cooperation, he was not the same kind of teacher that she was used to at the Great Temple. Now she understood a little more what to expect.

“Those who are new to command can be overwhelmed such as the priestess is describing,” Sergeant Crandell notes. “Come up with ideas is easy. Coming up with ideas that work can be hard, especially when lives are on the line. There are many factors to consider and some that can be overlooked. While I certainly don't have this ability, I have heard tales of those leaders who not only implement their strategy, but also take into account the reactions of those they are fighting.”

"We were taught in the Great Temple that if one sees three issues that should be a concern, then there are likely three more issues that have not yet been identified. Tactics need to be flexible enough to adapt, but also strong enough to stand on their own. While being able to anticipate the enemy is extremely advantageous, it requires a good knowledge of the enemy. If one's strategy is strong and sound, you force them to react to you."

Crandell agrees with the priestess' suggestion about making the attack on the caravan's return. “I like that notion,” Sergeant Crandell adds. “It plays against the enemies expectations. And if they are using wagons, then we'll be able to capture a few and not have to load the supplies ourselves.”

"Hopefully it will make them somewhat complacent having traveled through the area safely once already. It may make the surprise that much more effective. With the number of variables that exist, we can turn all those disadvantages to at least neutral factors."

Crandell settles on a plan. We are going to return to Eagle's Nest, with several scouts keeping lookout for enemy that may try to once more attack our defenses. Spellcasters will recover and reset spells. In the morning, we will go and see if there is evidence of enemy having passed. If so we will move to the ambush point and fell several trees and then prepare the rest of the attack.

Sergeant Crandell states. “We'll finish up here and then ride back to Eagle's Nest to rest for the night. Then at first light we'll ride back here and see just how big this caravan is and finalize our plans to stop them.”

Erisci makes another comment. "We will not only need scouts to watch the approach to Eagle's Nest, but we will also need guards at the first door above. Obviously we will be barring that if we have concerns about enemy attacking. And certainly that should be a concern since we defeated their forces already and continue to fly the black flag of danger. They may not try to 'capture the flag' as it were, but they may be seeking revenge for our success in foiling their plan."

Crandell continues his critique of the plans. “The one thing that gets overlooked when it comes to spreading oil is that it smells and people could notice its presence that way,” Sergeant Crandell adds. “Some races have a more sensitive sense of smell than others.”

"I suppose that depends on what sort of oil is used. Fish oil is cheap but indeed smelly. We often used plant based oils in the Shining Coast which are much more aromatic," she adds.

Crandell then comments about the use of certain individuals in the group. “Vernar functions as a scout in this unit,” Sergeant Crandell says to Vardra. “That's not to say he can't hold his own in a fight, but with the kind of engagement you are talking about, you want those with the heaviest armor up front. That would be Kendell, Lucyus and yourself. He and Ren would be more useful moving behind enemy lines, taking out enemy spell casters from behind and other such targets.”

"I would suggest that our new friend Gerett also fits the criteria of a front-line fighter as well," she says glancing toward the mail-clad dwarf with the halberd.

“A good leader learns what those in his command can do best and puts them in a position to maximize their skills,” Sergeant Crandell says. “That is how a group like this will succeed. Play to your strengths and try to limit the enemy exploiting your weaknesses.” Erisci nods her affirmation, mainly to herself.

“Let mount up and begin to ride back to Eagle's Nest,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “I'd rather not be out in the open during the night time. I like the idea of having setting up a watch to see if the enemy is approaching. However, those on watch should be positioned at the base of Eagle's Nest. The stretch of road that leads up the base of the ramp is wide open, so an advancing enemy could be spotted long before they are close. Plus an eye could be kept on our horses. Should an enemy force approach, try to lead them up the ramp and let the dwarven trap take care of them for us.”

“Come the morning, we will return to this area, scout out the size of the caravan and decide our final strategy. This has been a very productive meeting. Rest well tonight, as tomorrow promises to be a long day.”

Erisci considers for a moment. Crandell is protecting the scouts and Eagle's Nest at the expense of knowing more about the caravan's composition, by positioning them at the cave rather than nearer the fork where the caravan may pass. They will have to adapt somewhat at the beginning of the ambush once the Sleep barrage goes off. That part will be the same irrespective of what sort of enemies are present.

Erisci looks over the battle area one more time, while people start to collect their things and mount up. She will then mount her horse and be ready to depart with the others.

Once back at the Eagle's Nest before they ascend, she will ask the spellcasters to gather round. Since Crandell did not specify anything regarding spell selections, the priestess takes it upon herself to make sure there is some direction to the plans. "Those who have blessings from their patrons, Protection from Evil will be a helpful spell for our fighters before we attack. Hold Person if you are able. Mages should each memorize two Sleep spells if they can memorize at least four spells and all should have at least two Magickal Missiles available. The situation is variable enough that the rest of the spells and blessings can be open. I would suggest planning for needing healing in significant amounts and not to use up all blessings. May the gods and goddesses show favor to our mission."

The priestess will head up to the Eagle's Nest and settle in for the night, depending on what plans there are for evening meal. She removes her few armor pieces that were worn and sets out the rest of her armor for the morning.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

Vernar wrote:"Depends on your definition of 'front,' my friend," Vernar replies. "My front not always being their front, if you know what I be meanin'." Still, Vernar understands that charging against a line in only studded leather will likely test his luck more than necessary, he relents. "You be puttin' me where I be best, and do not worry none 'bout the body count. I can keep up."
“Vernar functions as a scout in this unit,” Sergeant Crandell says to Vardra. “That's not to say he can't hold his own in a fight, but with the kind of engagement you are talking about, you want those with the heaviest armor up front. That would be Kendell, Lucyus and yourself. He and Ren would be more useful moving behind enemy lines, taking out enemy spell casters from behind and other such targets.”

A slight smile etches his scruffy face as his blue eyes sparkle with mirth at hearing the dwarfs words. While he knows attacking from the rear is not always honorable, sometimes it is necessary. “I have seen what the edge of your axes and blades can do. While formidable, I would rather look my enemy in the eye as the butterfly edges of my axe bite into them.”

“Let mount up and begin to ride back to Eagle's Nest,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “I'd rather not be out in the open during the night time. I like the idea of having setting up a watch to see if the enemy is approaching. However, those on watch should be positioned at the base of Eagle's Nest. The stretch of road that leads up the base of the ramp is wide open, so an advancing enemy could be spotted long before they are close. Plus an eye could be kept on our horses. Should an enemy force approach, try to lead them up the ramp and let the dwarven trap take care of them for us.”

“Come the morning, will will return to this area, scout out the size of the caravan and decide our final strategy. This has been a very productive meeting. Rest well tonight, as tomorrow promises to be a long day.”

Lucyus looks to the area, looking about for sign of the enemy as he makes his way to his mount. Mounting up he offers his arm to Wimzy once again, if she is willing.
Upon returning to the fort, Lucyus will search the fort for anything out of place. Once convinced nothing is there he will remove his armor and care for it. He will then begin to sharpen his battleaxe and daggers. After the care of his gear he will make his way to the armory and look upon the spears.
Taking one he tests the weight in his hands. Lucyus will set up a chair in the corner and begin trying to work on his aim. Atleast this will pass the time till he needs to rest and pray to his patron.

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

Lucyus remains quiet while the solemn warrior speaks. He thinks that they might not want to attack them in the dark and wait for the light of day. “What you say is true, many of us cannot see in the dark. But to delay favors our enemy as they do have forces that are more active at night versus the day, when they rendezvous, which we do not know.” He points out, hoping the soldier realizes his thinking may be flawed.

Vardra shrugs. "It seemed to me that we should consider all possibilities. There may be conditions where attacking them at night might amount to suicide. For example, if their return is during a heavy downpour during the night, then the clouds would block most or all of the light from the moon and stars. Plus, the rain may well severely dampen the burning of torches and oil, and limit the light they produce. We would then be dependent on light from spells, which we might not have enough of to sufficiently light the intended ambush site. That would leave us seriously handicapped. I respect your determination to try to stop them at all costs, but I'm not sure everyone in the group shares your zeal."

“The only problem with that is that we loose the defensive position that Eagle's Nest offers us,” Sergeant Crandell notes. “If they are expecting trouble, they may have scouts of their own looking for us. Given the choice, I would rather rest at a strong defensive position.”

"That's your choice, sir," Vardra says. "There are positives and negatives either way."

The priestess will interject for a moment. "In order to alter spells that we have available to cast, whether arcane or clerical, requires ourselves to be fully rested." She looks to Kaylessa for a moment. "While she may require less rest, the rest of us," she says waving her hands toward the group, "are not so fortunate. It is not a matter of if we rest partially we can regain partial spells. If the caravan comes through tonight, the spellcasters will not be ready to optimize their spells quickly. Expect at least nine or ten hours from the time we begin our rest."

"That is true, Erisciana," Vardra says in agreement. "The point I was trying to make was that the more places that we can save time, the more likely that you will have the time that you need. I was... 'playing the odds', so to speak. Of course, as Butternut suggests, if they are not likely to arrive until tomorrow day, then it is a moot point."

Vardra does mention that the goal is to stop the caravan and the supplies, not the forces necessarily. "I agree. Everything we can do to hinder them is a boon to the forces at the fort. Every bit of supplies they don't have, weakens the siege. Every enemy we kill is one less to test the fort's defenses. Destroying the wagons, if they are indeed wagons, are a viable result. We could have a near unlimited amount of oil as well," she says looking at Sorvani and Butternut. "I was also able to learn the spell in question in our sharing of spell books earlier today. Liquid Metamorphosis. It is possible to transform water, which we have in abundance with the stream, into oil. The only question becomes the method to ignite it. But we could conceivably light the entire section of road in a conflagration."

Vardra nods. "That could prove very helpful. I seem to recall there being a fair number of vials of oil back up at the overlook -- I grabbed several for my lantern -- but if we can make more, that's gives us even more options. A couple of wineskins full of oil could be very useful under the right conditions."

“Vardra, You are overlooking what the Sergeant has said. We do not even know if they will be using wagons or carts, Let alone how much oil we can create by the mages spells. They could be a host of Ogres and Giants for all we know."

"It seems to me that there are three options, Lucyus," Vardra replies. "First, they bring wagons and/or carts, which seems like the most likely option as it is the most efficient way to transport a large amount of food and supplies. On the other hand, they could bring a 'host of ogres and giants' as you suggest, which sounds like the definition of the 'overwhelming force' that was mentioned earlier; we wouldn't stand much of a chance against them and cannot stop them from transporting whatever they can carry. The third option is that they bring a bunch of orcs and goblins and try to carry the supplies out in backpacks; this doesn't seem likely to provide an army of the size we've seen with anywhere near sufficient supplies, though killing as many of them as we can is still a worthwhile goal."

Vardra pauses a second as his mind whirs along. "I guess it's possible that they'll send a group of ogres and giants to trap us in the Eagle's Nest, and then they'll be able to transport as much supplies as they want without any interference from us at all. Our only option at that point would likely be to use the hidden stairway and attack that way."

Even from where she's sitting, she can still hear the long-winded debate. Vernar, Lucyus, and Erisicana talk about a 'total win', after which Vardra suggests burning the wagons if they're not sure they can defeat the enemy. "Burning perfectly good food just feels wrong; I hope it doesn't come to that!"

The halfling warrior's comment draws a smirk from Vardra, but he chooses not to say anything that might annoy the testy woman further.

"What I suggested originally would not, in fact, commit all of our magickal resources initially. The 'Sleep Barrage' is only 5 spells used, plus a few others for possibly lighting the fire and the Phantasm. We would have a significant number of Magickal Missiles to direct at targets of importance, as well as additional Sleep and Hold Person spells, amongst others. If we coordinate and reset our spells, we have a considerable amount of arcane power at our disposal."

"Perhaps I misunderstood your proposal," Vardra admits, scratching his chin. "It originally sounded like you intended to commit all of our spells to the ambush with very little left in reserve for the contingencies that the sergeant mentioned. That may not have been your intent."

“I would disagree with Vernar being a front line fighter.” Looking to the soldier then to Vernar, “No offense my good dwarf, His armor is not the best protection as Kendell or Myself. Even your armor would provide better protection for yourself and the others behind you. Besides, I have seen you cut goblin’s in half with your blade.”

"Depends on your definition of 'front,' my friend," Vernar replies. "My front not always being their front, if you know what I be meanin'." Still, Vernar understands that charging against a line in only studded leather will likely test his luck more than necessary, he relents. "You be puttin' me where I be best, and do not worry none 'bout the body count. I can keep up."

“Vernar functions as a scout in this unit,” Sergeant Crandell says to Vardra. “That's not to say he can't hold his own in a fight, but with the kind of engagement you are talking about, you want those with the heaviest armor up front. That would be Kendell, Lucyus and yourself. He and Ren would be more useful moving behind enemy lines, taking out enemy spell casters from behind and other such targets.”

"I would suggest that our new friend Gerett also fits the criteria of a front-line fighter as well," she says glancing toward the mail-clad dwarf with the halberd.

It seems that his choice of terminology has created some confusion. He will have to try to be more precise about the words he uses from now on. "'Front-line fighter' was probably not the best term to use, as it seems to have a very set connotation," Vardra says. "What I was alluding to is that Vernar doesn't appear to have any particular ranged combat capability; I know he can throw his axe and daggers, but he only has a few, and the range of thrown weapons is usually pretty limited." Vardra looks over at the dwarf to see if he disagrees. "I didn't include Gerett and myself since he carries a crossbow and I have this bow I inherited from my grandfather. I guess what I really meant was 'melee-only fighter' or some such."

Erisci returns the nod. "That is exactly what I was saying when we set up camp outside the cave not so long ago," she says quietly. She then continues, after a moment. "We need a hand to direct everyone, to give structure and form to the ideas, else they become bogged down in incessant discussion. We need to let people do what they do best, but direct them in a coordinated effort. Simply put, we need to become a team or we need to put in our time or else just walk away. We could endlessly argue and debate like worthless minor politicians each hoping to have our way. Or this could be our baptism of fire. We have the opportunity to become a real force for good."

“A good leader learns what those in his command can do best and puts them in a position to maximize their skills,” Sergeant Crandell says. “That is how a group like this will succeed. Play to your strengths and try to limit the enemy exploiting your weaknesses.”

Vardra listens to the priestess' comments and then those of the sergeant, but doesn't have any particular comments to share in reply.

The decision is made to return to the Eagle's Nest for the night. Since they won't be watching the road up from Fort Graystone, Vardra can only hope that Butternut is right and the enemy won't make their supply run up and back while they sleep. Returning to Forelock, the soldier mounts up. He makes sure that his shield is firmly in place on his arm and his sword is loose in its scabbard in case there is trouble on the way back.

[Gerett]

Gerett has actively watched the conversation play out as tactics are discussed. He's interested in the proceedings but adding another voice would only slow things down even more. In the end, little is decided except that they need to return to base to resupply. Why'd we even come out here then? he grumbles internally, but doesn't share. No reason to bring negativity into this unless we're rushing into a mistake. Which we're not quite doing yet, at least. But before everyone saddles up, he does speak up.

"I've been staying silent so far...too many tongs in one furnace here. But I will say if we came out all this way, it makes sense ta me to leave someone here overnight to watch and see what the caravan looks like on their way in. Even wit'out special skill in hiding I think a couple people could eas'ly sit behind the treeline and watch the caravan go by. Then when everyone returns from Eagle's Nest, whoever stayed here can give the situation report and make a better plan.

"It's not going to kill any of us to spend a night under tha' stars. I'd gladly stay if one or two others would stay wit' me."

If there is any agreement, Gerett will begin to set up a camp well away from the road, no fire but just a place to sleep and shelter while one of the stakeout party stays within sight of the road on a rotating watch.

Gerett will also call Laurel over for a moment. "I'm gonna tell ya what we need because ye probably have the best memory and seem ta' pay attention well. If I end up staying here, I'll need ye ta make sure tha group brings back axes in case we decide ta fell trees. If by chance the base has a saw, even better. Oil and rope would be useful too, I think."

[Laurel]

"I'm sorry if I wasn't being clear. I meant if you were able to change a blessing to Protection from Evil. And I am not familiar with your patron, this Felix, at all. I was wondering what special abilities to which you might have access. For example, I have a resistance to cold and fire. And I am able to naturally detect or dispel magicks to a degree. You have a short sword and leather armor, so we can assume your patron's followers are not like Anu... or Heironeous. What other skills do you bring to our little collection?"

Laurel looks down at her dirty gambison and surcoat, which was looking more brown with every passing day on this adventure, and recalls the plate armor that the priest of Heironeous had been wearing. Something like that would probably never be practical for herself as she is quite short and not very strong. She looks at the priestess of Ishtar after a moments pause, "Felix is guardian of knowledge, libraries and cats. I think most of my skills fall within that realm. I can walk lightly when I wish and not be found if I don't want to. I'm not very good with a weapon but my skills are sufficient enough. I am fairly dexterous with my hands and I can climb fairly well. I am pretty good at detecting things such as illusions, magic and traps. I also have some skill in languages and reading. Laurel takes a deep breath, and thinks for a second. She's not used to talking this much about herself. Her eyes come to rest on Malfamata. "I am able to speak with cats, although I've never encountered any besides household cats." (She refrains from saying "common household cats" because Malf would have something to say about that! Plus, many of the ones she had met are anything but common.) "Malfamata is...." The dark haired woman pauses for a second, not sure how to define their relationship. After a pause she continues, "bound to me. I don't know if it is Felix who guides him or if he is just stubborn and has assigned himself to me. He is a very useful cat when he wants to be and will do just about anything for a fish." Finally the young woman comes back around to the first question, "As to the powers that Felix grants, his sphere of influence mostly affect the areas of being able to find lost knowledge but also include some blessings such as protection from evil, remove fear, or sanctuary." Laurel nods to herself, feeling that she has succinctly described her abilities, minor as they are.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"I'm gonna tell ya what we need because ye probably have the best memory and seem ta' pay attention well. If I end up staying here, I'll need ye ta make sure tha group brings back axes in case we decide ta fell trees. If by chance the base has a saw, even better. Oil and rope would be useful too, I think."

Laurel listens carefully to what Gerett has to say and pulls out her notebook and pen. Basic tools but sturdy and well made, sufficient for the job at hand. She begins to write a list of all the things that have been mentioned by the party as needed for the ambush to be successful. She then includes medical supplies and rations as part of the clean up. After Gerett has finished his instructions she turns the page in the journal and begins a crude, but accurate sketch of the area the ambush is to take place in. She carefully notes the size and location of each tree and boulder bigger than a person. Then on the back of the previous page she draws a rough map of the general area they are in, from Eagles Nest and the entrance into the caves under it to here. Satisfied she blows gently on the ink to help it dry quickly before snapping the small book shut and putting it back in her oilskin satchel for safe keeping.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Butternut shares what magicks she can cast. But the halfling looks a little irritated, when the priestess expounds upon that information. "Yup, that's what I said," Butternut confirms. Erisci shrugs for a moment. "We cannot assume that those who do not cast magicks know the details of those powers," she says simply in regards to the unspoken thought.

"They didn't ask for details," Butternut replies. "If they needed more information, they would ask."

When the discussion turns to the timing of the supply caravan, Butternut points out that what the drow said implied that it would be during the day tomorrow. This seems to please Erisciana, as it means that they will likely have time to rest and adjust their spell choices. Lucyus seems less sure of the interpretation.

"I think we should leave the quietest o' us here t' keep an eye on things. Me, Flare, and one o' more o' the others," Vernar suggests. "If they do be passin' us in the night, then we can be attackin' on their return as Erisciana suggests. Maybe Flare can sent his bird back t' let you know if they do pass tonight, if you keep a lookout at the nest. If they do not slip through tonight, then all you spell casters be better prepared and we deal with 'em as planned. If we have t' be catchin' 'em on the way back, you all still be havin' your spells."

Butternut nods in agreement as Vernar presents his idea. "That's pretty much what I was thinking." She turns to Flare. "Flare, would your friend there be able to deliver a message up to the outlook if needed?"

The sergeant gives his thoughts on the recommendations from those who seem to want to be in charge.

“And this is a better way to bring the downing of trees into play,” Sergeant Crandell adds. “as they can be felled before the caravan leaves the supply depot. This seems like a good plan.”

The halfling warrior is puzzled by this seeming contradiction to what had been said before. "It was mentioned before that felled trees would be easily spotted by the enemy before they entered the ambush zone and would warn them off. If it is true going one way, it is just as true going the other."

Crandell also decides that they should spend the night at the overlook, which leaves the scouts little to do. At least she should get plenty of sleep this night.

"I've been staying silent so far...too many tongs in one furnace here. But I will say if we came out all this way, it makes sense ta me to leave someone here overnight to watch and see what the caravan looks like on their way in. Even wit'out special skill in hiding I think a couple people could eas'ly sit behind the treeline and watch the caravan go by. Then when everyone returns from Eagle's Nest, whoever stayed here can give the situation report and make a better plan.

"It's not going to kill any of us to spend a night under tha' stars. I'd gladly stay if one or two others would stay wit' me."

"I'm willing to stay with you, Gerett," Butternut says. "I doubt they'd have much luck finding me in the woods if I don't want them too." Gerett then proceeds to provide Laurel with a list of items they're likely to need the next day, which she dutifully writes down. "Extra arrows and quarrels wouldn't be a bad idea, either..."

<assuming Crandell nixes that idea...>

Since she and Flare lead on the way down here earlier, Butternut figures they should probably do the same on the way back. "Come on, Flare, time to show the others how to follow the road back to our base!" she calls out to the woodsman with a touch of humor in her voice. She returns to her spotted pony and mounts quickly. When everyone appears ready, she will turn and start up the road. Though she doesn't expect trouble at this point, she keeps her ears and eye open for anything unexpected.

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa
As the meeting comes to an end, Kaylessa returns her knocked arrow to her quiver and strings her bow across her shoulder. She takes a last look at the boulders and stones, judging the best protection of boulders and where she maybe of the mot use with her shortbow if the plan unfolds in disrepair.

Moving to her mount she mounts up, as her horse moves beneath her. “Easy.” She says in common to the horse as she pets the horse’s side.
"Those who have blessings from their patrons, Protection from Evil will be a helpful spell for our fighters before we attack. Hold Person if you are able. Mages should each memorize two Sleep spells if they can memorize at least four spells and all should have at least two Magickal Missiles available. The situation is variable enough that the rest of the spells and blessings can be open. I would suggest planning for needing healing in significant amounts and not to use up all blessings. May the gods and goddesses show favor to our mission."

“I’ll join those guarding the horses. Within limited sleep and soms tudying I should be able to replenish my spells easily. Some of my spells will not be offensive but some may be of use. Strength to be cast upon a fighter, Perhaps Lucyus. And levitate. To be used on a large threat or to float an endangered comrade if they fall.”
Once at the base she will move to the armory and replenish her arrows and perhaps help herself with another quiver of ten.
She will say her goodbyes to the others, wishing them good luck as she moves back down to the ramp to be a look out to the horses and caravan.

[Vernar]

Vernar -

With the sergeant's decision, it appears everyone will be heading back, so that cancels out any of the ideas he, Butternut or Gerett put forth about having a scout or three waiting in the woods near here to see what might pass through the night, if anything at all. Instead the human wants everyone closer to the Eagle's Nest for the night. As Vernar mounts up, he will state he is willing to watch the horses and keep an eye out should anything wander within their range since he has no concerns about spells or the needed sleep to obtain them.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar -

Laurel responds to the priestess' query, explaining her abilities and some basic tenets of her deity.

"A guardian of knowledge? Interesting," the priestess will say, trying not to interrupt. After the priestess of Felix finishes her basic exposition about herself, Erisci will smile at her. "It is important to know what everyone may or may not be capable. Thank you for that."

Butternut shares what magicks she can cast. But the halfling looks a little irritated, when the priestess expounds upon that information. "Yup, that's what I said," Butternut confirms. Erisci shrugs for a moment. "We cannot assume that those who do not cast magicks know the details of those powers," she says simply in regards to the unspoken thought.

"They didn't ask for details," Butternut replies. "If they needed more information, they would ask."

Erisci makes a sour face. "Lucyus' question may have been specific, but the implication was indeed that he was looking for information. And he prefaced that by saying explicitly that he did not know of what we each were capable. I thought it better to make sure there was no lack of such knowledge."

(OOC: When the discussion turns to the timing of the supply caravan, Butternut points out that what the drow said implied that it would be during the day tomorrow. This seems to please Erisciana, as it means that they will likely have time to rest and adjust their spell choices. Lucyus seems less sure of the interpretation.

Actually, I had assumed that with the acceptance that the enemy was predominantly humanoid that the caravan would be on the move at night. So the question was tonight or tomorrow night, not tomorrow day [still possible, but remotely so]. My goal was to impede their progress on the road and delay them which forced a return during the following day, which is when we would strike.)

-------------------------------

“And this is a better way to bring the downing of trees into play,” Sergeant Crandell adds. “as they can be felled before the caravan leaves the supply depot. This seems like a good plan.”

The halfling warrior is puzzled by this seeming contradiction to what had been said before. "It was mentioned before that felled trees would be easily spotted by the enemy before they entered the ambush zone and would warn them off. If it is true going one way, it is just as true going the other."

"Except," the priestess interjects, "that if they are going toward the caverns, they can choose to go forward or retreat. Once they have their goods collected, a retreat is acceptable from our stand point, because it still results in the supplies not moving to the encamped army. Now if your point is that a felled series of trees will warn them of an impending ambush that is true. Which is why I would prefer to fell a few trees in their path before they arrive simply to slow them down. On the return trip it may not be so apparent that felled trees are an ambush, especially if we conceal them with darkness and my phantasm."



Vardra and Lucyus have a short discussion about when the ambush would fall. The paladin seems to think that we must attack them at all costs, regardless of the disadvantages caused by fighting at night and the corresponding advantages the enemy would have over many of this group.

Vardra shrugs. "It seemed to me that we should consider all possibilities. There may be conditions where attacking them at night might amount to suicide. For example, if their return is during a heavy downpour during the night, then the clouds would block most or all of the light from the moon and stars. Plus, the rain may well severely dampen the burning of torches and oil, and limit the light they produce. We would then be dependent on light from spells, which we might not have enough of to sufficiently light the intended ambush site. That would leave us seriously handicapped. I respect your determination to try to stop them at all costs, but I'm not sure everyone in the group shares your zeal."

"I concur," the priestess adds. "This mission is important but hardly vital. Supplies are important but not so much to risk a dangerous, disadvantaged attack. As I said before, we would be best served to force the battle on our terms, at least as far as daylight is concerned."

Lucyus and a few of the others accept the sergeant's plans at face value. Some of their group however are less pleased at his commands.

“The only problem with that is that we loose the defensive position that Eagle's Nest offers us,” Sergeant Crandell notes. “If they are expecting trouble, they may have scouts of their own looking for us. Given the choice, I would rather rest at a strong defensive position.”

"That's your choice, sir," Vardra says. "There are positives and negatives either way."

"Perhaps so," she responds to the soldier's comments. "But much like fighting in the dark versus daylight, the sergeant is taking the strategy of putting us in the advantageous position. Even if it means we cannot learn of the composition of this caravan, we will be more prepared to stop another attack against Eagle's Nest. Will it come? We cannot be sure, but I have had a strong feeling that it will be so since the moment of our victory which caused the black flag to fly and warn Greystone of the impending danger."

"Having three unsupported scouts here, so far away from the rest of us, essentially puts them on their own. We would not even know anything is happening, and even if Flare's pet could warn us, we are too far away to influence any battle that occurred. While our scouts are indeed skilled, they could still be out-numbered, or ambushed, or led into a trap by a devious enemy. Scouting the caravan at this specific spot," she says pointing to the area where they plan the ambush, "is entirely irrelevant. We could just as easily scout upwards of the fork and be in a better defensive position. And if there is no caravan tonight, but there is an assault on Eagle's Nest again, then we will be lacking three of our number in defense. I prefer your idea of having the scouts nearer the fork."

"While there are positives and negatives to any plans, you still must weigh the degree to which the are positive or negative when deciding on a course of action."

The discussion also involves the time needed to rest for the spellcasters. "That is true, Erisciana," Vardra says in agreement. "The point I was trying to make was that the more places that we can save time, the more likely that you will have the time that you need. I was... 'playing the odds', so to speak. Of course, as Butternut suggests, if they are not likely to arrive until tomorrow day, then it is a moot point."

Erisci considers for a moment. She cocks her head to the side, unsure she understood him. "Perhaps it is my knowledge of the language here, but I thought you were saying that by having the scouts closer it would somehow allow us to more time to recover spells. Apparently I misunderstood your intent."

Vardra and Lucyus discuss the potential make-up of the caravan and the usefulness of making oil through magickal means. "I agree that additional oil can only be helpful. There are other methods of introducing flaming oil to the enemy than simply dowsing an area and lighting it. Also another optional type of transport would be beasts of burden. They could not carry as much as the wagons or carts but would be more mobile."

Vardra pauses a second as his mind whirs along. "I guess it's possible that they'll send a group of ogres and giants to trap us in the Eagle's Nest, and then they'll be able to transport as much supplies as they want without any interference from us at all. Our only option at that point would likely be to use the hidden stairway and attack that way."

"As you said, there are positives and negative to that plan, but should it come to it, that might be a very effective means of striking a blow."

Further on in the discussion, Vardra comments about the use of spells in the attack. "Perhaps I misunderstood your proposal," Vardra admits, scratching his chin. "It originally sounded like you intended to commit all of our spells to the ambush with very little left in reserve for the contingencies that the sergeant mentioned. That may not have been your intent."

"No, certainly not," she says with a grin. "That would be foolish to not have contingencies available for what might happen as the battle progresses. The Sleep barrage will be effective regardless of the enemies we face." She pauses for a moment and adds quietly. "Unless they have a giant." She then adds more confidently, "So that is why we hold the magickal missiles."

The two men continue their ongoing discussion, moving on to the category, for lack of a better term, of fighting style. "Personally, I find it more useful to consider one's primary fighting style as opposed to weapon options available. No disrespect, but I would wager that Kaylessa and Flare are more skilled with their archery than yourself or Gerett. In truth either of you appear to be better at fighting in close combat. Your proficiency with ranged weapons makes their use an option in potential battles, but must be used as the situation dictates. Clearly either of you would kill more goblins or orcs in melee, rather than trying to hit moving targets in an ambush by shooting them, yes?"

"As for Vernar, he is just as dangerous as our comrade Kendall there, but their styles and therefore their tactics are decidedly different. They certainly could not be classed together in our battle plans."

At the end of the debate and discussion, Gerett offers some suggestions. "I've been staying silent so far...too many tongs in one furnace here. But I will say if we came out all this way, it makes sense ta me to leave someone here overnight to watch and see what the caravan looks like on their way in. Even wit'out special skill in hiding I think a couple people could eas'ly sit behind the treeline and watch the caravan go by. Then when everyone returns from Eagle's Nest, whoever stayed here can give the situation report and make a better plan.

"It's not going to kill any of us to spend a night under tha' stars. I'd gladly stay if one or two others would stay wit' me."

"I agree that we could have scouts that also keep watch for the caravan. But the further away from Eagle's Nest, the more danger we could all be in as our numbers are divided. On the road to Eagle's Nest, above the fork, seems less dangerous to me and lets the scouts see the caravan potentially as well as an attacking force sent against our defenses. There is less chance to cut the scouts off and little chance an enemy appears tonight at our barred doors." She pauses for a moment. "I would bet a gold daric that the caravan is not coming through this soon. That does not mean we should not watch for it. Although, the sergeant seems to have his mind made up."

The group returns to the Eagle's Nest. Some of them collect resources for the scouts and others prepare a meal before they turn in for the night or begin guard duty.

(OOC: Deleted the comments made to Vernar since the post did not allow for that discussion to have taken place, and Vernar obviously did not respond to them.)

[Lucyus]

Lucyus

Vardra shrugs. "It seemed to me that we should consider all possibilities. There may be conditions where attacking them at night might amount to suicide. For example, if their return is during a heavy downpour during the night, then the clouds would block most or all of the light from the moon and stars. Plus, the rain may well severely dampen the burning of torches and oil, and limit the light they produce. We would then be dependent on light from spells, which we might not have enough of to sufficiently light the intended ambush site. That would leave us seriously handicapped. I respect your determination to try to stop them at all costs, but I'm not sure everyone in the group shares your zeal."

Lucyus looks to the soldier and calmly states, “I did not say to attack at night.” The paladin says calmly and collectively. “I was pointing out that in our recent battles that our foe was both of light and dark, Nocturnal and not nocturnal, and to be mindful of both. I know enough of tactics and strategy not to hinder ourselves, nor lead us astray. I was merely pointing out that if we don’t attack them soon, they will have the advantage.”

"I was also able to learn the spell in question in our sharing of spell books earlier today. Liquid Metamorphosis. It is possible to transform water, which we have in abundance with the stream, into oil. The only question becomes the method to ignite it. But we could conceivably light the entire section of road in a conflagration."

“Forgive my naivety in regards to your spells. But would you be able to replenish that spell after you cast it?” he asks curiously. “An arrow from afar alight with flame might be best. Unfortunately if we do attack within the darkness our foes will be upon us like a moth to flame.” He states easily.
Having not much else to say he will remain diligent in his practicing and prayers.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

April 13th, CR 569

The combined squads are finishing up scouting the way to the goblin lair in preparation to ambush the supply caravan the drow mentioned. The initial plans were to stop the caravan before it reached the supply depot, but now it's changed to preventing them from leaving.

The halfling warrior is puzzled by this seeming contradiction to what had been said before. "It was mentioned before that felled trees would be easily spotted by the enemy before they entered the ambush zone and would warn them off. If it is true going one way, it is just as true going the other."

"Except," the priestess interjects, "that if they are going toward the caverns, they can choose to go forward or retreat. Once they have their goods collected, a retreat is acceptable from our stand point, because it still results in the supplies not moving to the encamped army. Now if your point is that a felled series of trees will warn them of an impending ambush that is true. Which is why I would prefer to fell a few trees in their path before they arrive simply to slow them down. On the return trip it may not be so apparent that felled trees are an ambush, especially if we conceal them with darkness and my phantasm."

“The priestess has the truth of the matter,” Sergeant Crandell notes. “Our goal is to keep the supplies from reaching their army. This method accomplishes this regardless of which direction they go.”

Erisci makes another comment. "We will not only need scouts to watch the approach to Eagle's Nest, but we will also need guards at the first door above. Obviously we will be barring that if we have concerns about enemy attacking. And certainly that should be a concern since we defeated their forces already and continue to fly the black flag of danger. They may not try to 'capture the flag' as it were, but they may be seeking revenge for our success in foiling their plan."

“Yes, there will be guards at the Nest's doors,” Crandell answers. “But those do not have to be able to see in the dark, so anyone not resting for spells can take that duty.”

"I've been staying silent so far...too many tongs in one furnace here. But I will say if we came out all this way, it makes sense ta me to leave someone here overnight to watch and see what the caravan looks like on their way in. Even wit'out special skill in hiding I think a couple people could eas'ly sit behind the treeline and watch the caravan go by. Then when everyone returns from Eagle's Nest, whoever stayed here can give the situation report and make a better plan.

"It's not going to kill any of us to spend a night under tha' stars. I'd gladly stay if one or two others would stay wit' me."

“We're already going to be split up into two groups,” Sergeant Crandell notes, “I'd rather not have three of them. Besides, the plan we have settled upon wants the enemy forces to be confident that the area is clear of danger. If the enemy sends an attack force with the caravan, then they will be heading to Eagle's Nest anyway and you'd be blocked off from the rest of us. Too much danger for too little reward.”

[GM Mad]

Mounting up, the Squads ride back to the base of Eagle's Nest before it gets too dark outside. The horses that went on the trip are feed and water and returned the makeshift corral. Sergeant Crandell asks for volunteers to guard the horses, preferably those with night sight. Kaylessa volunteers as does Vernar. Flare will join the group as well, as he'd rather be outside.

“Keep an eye out for trouble,” Sergeant Crandell will tell the guards. “If an enemy force does show up, run up the ramp to alert the rest of us.”


Those not on guard duty make their way up the ramp. The Eagle's Nest is as it was left a few hours ago. No sign of anyone else here. A guard rotation is set up to keep watch. The outer most door is secured, but the inner door is open for now.

Rations and water are had as the night slowly passes. Eventually most are asleep in the Eagle's Nest with the exception of the guards.


April 14th, CR 569

The night passes slowly for those guarding the horses and watch the path that leads to the Eagle's Nest. Those standing guard take turns on watch or sleeping. At one point during the evening, both Kaylessa and Vernar are up and on watch. Vernar is watching the path leading up the hillside, while Kaylessa is closer to the horses. A faint noise off in the distance attracts the attention of both. It sounded like a twig breaking by being stepped on!

Both move closer to the source, but have yet to see anything. Not long after that, Kaylessa can make out someone saying something not far away from her. Her eyes go wide when she realizes that someone is casting a spell! A moment later, thick spider-like webs surround both Kaylessa and Vernar! Kaylessa struggles to free herself from the webbing, but finds it hard to move. The webbing around Vernar is not as thick and he is able to break the webs and could eventually free himself, but this will take time.

While they try to free themselves, both become aware of a horse being ridden off! The noise is initially close to Kaylessa, but then quickly moves away. The sound of the horse being rode is coming closer to Vernar. Straining to look around, the dwarf can just barely make out the horse. Seated on top of the horse is the lady drow!

“Sorry,” the drow offers apologetically in a heavily accented common. Clearly this is not her native tongue. “The webbing will fade away in a few hours, so this is just temporary. Please, don't try to follow me.”

Having said that, the drow spurs the horse on and begins to ride down the path away from Eagle's Nest.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

I streamlined this post considerably to get things moving again.

Only Kaylessa and Vernar posted volunteering to help guard the horses, although others could as well if they so choose. What happened was when they were asleep, although the two trapped in the Web could yell to try and wake them. Kaylessa does not have the strength to free herself from the Webbing. Vernar, on the other hand, is strong enough and he passed his save, so the webbing around him is weaker. He could force is way out of the Web in maybe 15 minutes.

As you've probably noted my posting has been very erratic this summer. I may have recently found the source of the problems that I've been having. I've been diagnosed with high blood pressure and was unaware of it until a week ago. The way it has been affecting me is to make me tire much easier than normal. So on most days I was just so fatigued that I didn't have the energy or desire to work on posts. So I didn't do anything and hence the long delays between posting.

I pretty much have two options. Take another break for however long this take to get under control or just muddle on and do what I can. For now, I have chosen the later. Looking back, I've probably had this for years without realizing it. I am taking medication and it is helping. So we'll see how it goes.

So to sum up, Kaylessa and Vernar are trapped in a Web as the drow stole a horse and rode away. Flare, and only else who stayed to guard the horses, are asleep and everyone else is up in the Eagle's Nest.

Now what?

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa

The night passes slowly for those guarding the horses and watch the path that leads to the Eagle's Nest. Those standing guard take turns on watch or sleeping. At one point during the evening, both Kaylessa and Vernar are up and on watch. Vernar is watching the path leading up the hillside, while Kaylessa is closer to the horses. A faint noise off in the distance attracts the attention of both. It sounded like a twig breaking by being stepped on!

As she looks into the night she gets accustomed to the noises of the horses and her companions. As she does so the night begins to grow quieter and a crack of a twig breaking can be heard. Rising up she looks to Vernar and then to rough sound before her. As she is carefully moving through the brush she rests near a young tree.

Both move closer to the source, but have yet to see anything. Not long after that, Kaylessa can make out someone saying something not far away from her. Her eyes go wide when she realizes that someone is casting a spell! A moment later, thick spider-like webs surround both Kaylessa and Vernar! Kaylessa struggles to free herself from the webbing, but finds it hard to move. The webbing around Vernar is not as thick and he is able to break the webs and could eventually free himself, but this will take time.

Kaylessa hears the faint speaking of words and her eyes go wide with the realization someone is casting a spell! A moment later thick spider like webs attach themselves to her causing her to struggle in their sticky embrace.
The canter of a horse is soon heard as a dark form rides upon it.

“Sorry,” the drow offers apologetically in a heavily accented common. Clearly this is not her native tongue. “The webbing will fade away in a few hours, so this is just temporary. Please, don't try to follow me.”

Growling in frustration, Kaylessa fights against the embrace of the webs. “Next time downworlder, I will put an arrow through your cold dead heart.”she promises back quietly to the drow.
Knowing to yell would be futile and bring attention to themselves. “Vernar are you able to move? I am stuck!” she says to the dwarf. Then turns her attention back to the camp where the others might be.
Taking a deep breath, Kaylessa will try to draw her magic shortsword and try to cut her way out

[Vernar]

Vernar -

Eventually we all return to the Nest. Vernar gets some food and washes it down with lukewarm water from one of his 'skins. The sun settles in for the night, as do most of the others. Seeing Kaylessa, Vernar nods in the direction he plans to guard from so she is aware of his location.

Vernar is watching the path leading up the hillside, while Kaylessa is closer to the horses. A faint noise off in the distance attracts the attention of both. It sounded like a twig breaking by being stepped on!

Someone is being careless, Vernar thinks, and it's not any of us. Vernar will slowly head that way, keeping as quiet as he can. He becomes aware that Kaylessa is alerted to the noise as well. Together they move, protecting each other but not trying to bunch up. Unfortunately, they are still too close to one another.

A moment later, thick spider-like webs surround both Kaylessa and Vernar! Kaylessa struggles to free herself from the webbing, but finds it hard to move. The webbing around Vernar is not as thick and he is able to break the webs and could eventually free himself, but this will take time.

"Blasted magic," Vernar hisses as he tries to reach for his weapons. Most of them are entangled in the webbing. He doesn't struggle for too long when their adversary makes herself known.

While they try to free themselves, both become aware of a horse being ridden off! The noise is initially close to Kaylessa, but then quickly moves away. The sound of the horse being rode is coming closer to Vernar. Straining to look around, the dwarf can just barely make out the horse. Seated on top of the horse is the lady drow!

“Sorry,” the drow offers apologetically in a heavily accented common. Clearly this is not her native tongue. “The webbing will fade away in a few hours, so this is just temporary. Please, don't try to follow me.”

Vernar fumbles for a throwing dagger or two, but he isn't able to reach anything without getting more trapped in the magical webbing. Instead, he watches the dark elf ride off, seething in his entrapment.

Knowing to yell would be futile and bring attention to themselves. “Vernar are you able to move? I am stuck!” she says to the dwarf. Then turns her attention back to the camp where the others might be.

"Aye, but not well yet," Vernar replies. He reaches up over his shoulder where he had secured the magical short sword. Guess this is as a good a time as any to try it out, he thinks to himself. Plus it's the only easy to reach weapon he has at the moment, as everything else is slung lower.

"I will be a bit carvin' my way out," Vernar says as he begins trying to cut and pull away the webbing. "Get free if you can, otherwise I be gettin' t' you shortly."

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

Sergeant Crandell gives orders to return to the overlook; not surprisingly, not all are in agreement with that plan. Gerett wants to leave a detachment to watch the fork in the road as Vardra had suggested, and Butternut volunteers to join him. The sergeant denies the request, opting to keep everyone together in the more defensible location.

"Having three unsupported scouts here, so far away from the rest of us, essentially puts them on their own. We would not even know anything is happening, and even if Flare's pet could warn us, we are too far away to influence any battle that occurred. While our scouts are indeed skilled, they could still be out-numbered, or ambushed, or led into a trap by a devious enemy. Scouting the caravan at this specific spot," she says pointing to the area where they plan the ambush, "is entirely irrelevant. We could just as easily scout upwards of the fork and be in a better defensive position. And if there is no caravan tonight, but there is an assault on Eagle's Nest again, then we will be lacking three of our number in defense. I prefer your idea of having the scouts nearer the fork."

"I agree that here is not an ideal location for the scouts," Vardra replies. "That's why I recommended that they be up near the the first fork where the road comes up from Fort Graystone. From there, they could retreat to the Eagle's Nest ahead of any attacking force, or choose to swing around and come at them from behind once the enemy attack the overlook." Vardra glances over at the halfling scout. "Plus, if Butternut is mistaken, or the drow used the wrong goblinish words and they do come tonight, then they could come, get their supplies, and leave, and we would be none the wiser. That would leave us in the position of wasting our time here tomorrow and into the following night waiting for a supply mission that has already come and gone. If the intent is to understand and leverage our team's talents, not making use of our scouts for what they do best seems to be a poor example of that."

Lucyus looks to the soldier and calmly states, “I did not say to attack at night.” The paladin says calmly and collectively. “I was pointing out that in our recent battles that our foe was both of light and dark, Nocturnal and not nocturnal, and to be mindful of both. I know enough of tactics and strategy not to hinder ourselves, nor lead us astray. I was merely pointing out that if we don’t attack them soon, they will have the advantage.”

"It would be great if we could decide when the enemy would choose to travel; it would make our lives much easier," Vardra says to the paladin. "Many of our companions seem to believe that it is more likely that they will travel at night than in the daytime, so that may be what we have to deal with."

Erisciana mentions the possibility that the enemy might use beasts of burden for transporting the supplies. Vardra nods, "I had not considered that. I suppose it would depend on what beasts they chose; many are as slow or slower than wagons, so may or may not benefit them in an ambush situation."

The two men continue their ongoing discussion, moving on to the category, for lack of a better term, of fighting style. "Personally, I find it more useful to consider one's primary fighting style as opposed to weapon options available. No disrespect, but I would wager that Kaylessa and Flare are more skilled with their archery than yourself or Gerett. In truth either of you appear to be better at fighting in close combat. Your proficiency with ranged weapons makes their use an option in potential battles, but must be used as the situation dictates. Clearly either of you would kill more goblins or orcs in melee, rather than trying to hit moving targets in an ambush by shooting them, yes?"

"Goblins? Certainly," Vardra acknowledges. "On the other hand, if it is the ogres and giants that Lucyus mentioned earlier, I would much rather be feathering them with arrows from a distance."

Hearing Erisciana ask Laurel about her patron, Vardra moves closer and listens quietly. He knows little of this feline deity, and is loathe to miss this opportunity to learn more. Erisciana thanks the woman once she completes her description, then moves on to other concerns.

Finding what Laurel shared to be quite interesting, Vardra speaks up. "I haven't spent much time around scholars, Laurel, but it seems to me that your knowledge and abilities will be very helpful to the squad. It was said that you figured out how to open the secret door up at the Eagle's Nest, and that is no small thing. I hope you choose to stay with us as we do what we can to help the army."

At the Eagle's Nest, far above Bollo's Shield, Vardra volunteers to watch the doors at the top of the ramp. He has no ability to see in the dark, so being outside at night limit's his usefulness. He will talk with any other volunteers about setting up shifts and help to organize those efforts. When not on shift, he will get what rest he can. He also takes time to clean his weapons and armor, and get a bit of food.

[Erisciana]

Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar -

The priestess comments about a better potential location for the scouts as Vardra suggested. While there is some dissent from the members, the sergeant appears fixed on his ideas. 'Why ask us for our opinions if they are just going to be discarded?' the priestess considers unspoken to herself.

Vardra continues on his point. "I agree that here is not an ideal location for the scouts," Vardra replies. "That's why I recommended that they be up near the the first fork where the road comes up from Fort Graystone. From there, they could retreat to the Eagle's Nest ahead of any attacking force, or choose to swing around and come at them from behind once the enemy attack the overlook." Vardra glances over at the halfling scout. "Plus, if Butternut is mistaken, or the drow used the wrong goblinish words and they do come tonight, then they could come, get their supplies, and leave, and we would be none the wiser. That would leave us in the position of wasting our time here tomorrow and into the following night waiting for a supply mission that has already come and gone. If the intent is to understand and leverage our team's talents, not making use of our scouts for what they do best seems to be a poor example of that."

Part way through his statement, Erisci shrugs her shoulders and raises her eyebrows, indicating she agrees but apparently their agreement has no bearing on the final decision. She does comment at the end briefly, "The dirt on the road is not packed hard enough that the scouts could not tell if a large number of humanoids and wagons came by. They should be able to tell if the supply caravan passed or not."
-----------------------

The two men continue their ongoing discussion, moving on to the category, for lack of a better term, of fighting style. "Personally, I find it more useful to consider one's primary fighting style as opposed to weapon options available. No disrespect, but I would wager that Kaylessa and Flare are more skilled with their archery than yourself or Gerett. In truth either of you appear to be better at fighting in close combat. Your proficiency with ranged weapons makes their use an option in potential battles, but must be used as the situation dictates. Clearly either of you would kill more goblins or orcs in melee, rather than trying to hit moving targets in an ambush by shooting them, yes?"

"Goblins? Certainly," Vardra acknowledges. "On the other hand, if it is the ogres and giants that Lucyus mentioned earlier, I would much rather be feathering them with arrows from a distance."

The priestess narrows her eyes for a moment and is about to respond, when she pauses and decides to remain silent. She nods slightly once. Looking briefly at the others in the group, she confirms a realization she had previously and says nothing more.
-------------------------

The priestess considers trying to speak to Vernar about where they should set up their scouting group, when they return to Eagle's Nest. She doesn't agree with the sergeant's idea completely and hoped to get Vernar's opinion. However she doesn't have the opportunity, as Crandell always seems to be about and the dwarf heads down to the base of Eagle's Nest.

Before she beds down for the evening, Lucyus asks another question about spellcasting. “Forgive my naivety in regards to your spells. But would you be able to replenish that spell after you cast it?” he asks curiously. “An arrow from afar alight with flame might be best. Unfortunately if we do attack within the darkness our foes will be upon us like a moth to flame,” he states easily.

Erisci considers his question for a moment, wondering if the paladin was getting at something more. Judging by the look on his face however, the question was straight forward. "Every spell is replenishable, so long as access to the spell book remains, at least as far as arcane magicks go. When a mage learns a spell from another's spellbook, we copy our own personal version of that spell into our own book. As far as fighting the enemy at night, the goal is not do so. But if we must, then bringing other advantages into play will become necessary."

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Both Crandell and Erisciana respond to her query regarding the downing of trees. Butternut shrugs in response. "I cannot imagine that the trees would do more than delay them for a few hours, but do whatever you like." She's starting to think that a fair number of this motley collection are crazy, but it doesn't really matter to her as long as there are plenty of goblins to kill sometime soon.

===

Upon reaching the cave entrance to the lookout, Crandell asks for volunteers to watch the road from their, particularly among those who can see in the dark. As she prepares Zephyr to spend the night in the makeshift corral, Butternut considers her option. Her first instinct is the join that group, but decides that making sure that she gets enough rest to replenish her spells is the greater need at this time. Thus, she wishes those who remain a safe night, then leads the others up the ramps toward the dwarven observation station at the top. Vernar is one of those who stayed below; having worked together almost continuously since they met back in Crossroads, it feels a bit odd to be taking different paths at this point.

Reaching the top, Butternut's first action is to scour the area and make sure that no one has been there in their absence. After a quick inspection, she finds no sign of unexpected intruders. Returning to Sergeant Crandall, she says, "Everything appears secure, sergeant. No sign of anyone having been here while we were gone."

Her next order of business is to put her gear away and address the gnawing feeling in her belly. Fortunately, there is plenty of food and water to be had, so this proves easy.

As she prepares for bed, the halfling elementalist realizes that she has an unused Armor spell still memorized. Looking about the ladies barracks, she spots their new companion Laurel, who seems more scholar than combatant. Walking over to the quiet priestess, Butternut catches her attention in an effort to avoid startling her. "Laurel? I have a spell available that provides significant protection, and I was wondering if you would like me to cast it on you. The spell blocks damage, and will not fade away until it's energies have been expended in that way; there is no time limit to the effect. Would you like that protection?"

[Laurel]

When Laurel arrives back at Eagles Nest she is grateful that the enemy hasn't moved in during their total absence. Just to be sure she runs to the top of the tower and checks to make sure the danger flag is still flying. After that her first order of business is collecting the items she had written down in her notebook. "Arrows, bolts, rations, rope, lumber ax, saw if it's available, oil if it's available...first aid supplies." Once all that is completed she wipes her hands on her surcoat and frowns, "I, and all my things, need a good washing! Too bad it's so dark out or else I'd go down to the stream and take care of that now. It can't be helped."

Laurel then heads into the sleeping area and begins getting ready for the night. After changing into clean clothes and combing out her long, tangled hair she sits cross legged on her bedroll and pets Malfamata. She probably would have shirked belly scratching duty as she was feeling quite tired but Malf was insistent.

"Laurel? I have a spell available that provides significant protection, and I was wondering if you would like me to cast it on you. The spell blocks damage, and will not fade away until it's energies have been expended in that way; there is no time limit to the effect. Would you like that protection?"

The young woman looks up at the halfling, brushing her hair behind her ear. "Oh..." is her initial reply. She thinks for a few seconds, "That sounds like an incredibly useful spell. Are you sure you want to use it on me? It sounded like they were planning on putting Vernar on the front lines tomorrow, maybe he would be a better recipient." Laurel then pauses for another second, "But he's down guarding the horses tonight, so there's that." The young woman then blushes and stutters, "I suppose I am being rude, you are being incredibly kind to offer your spell. If you think I'm the best person for it I'm happy to accept your boon."

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

April 14th, CR 569

The Squads have returned to the Eagle's Nest area after their scouting mission. Initially it was thought to ambush the caravan before it reached the goblin lair, but it was later decided that hitting the enemy after leaving the goblin lair was more practical. The caravan would be moving slower once loaded and it would be harder for them to flee. If the Squads missed the caravan, they could easily catch up to it on the horses.

Sergeant Crandell set up guards for the night by the entrance to Eagle's Nest to guard the horses. During the night, Kaylessa and Vernar were drawn to a noise off in the woods. Suddenly, both were surrounded by magical webbing! Near by, the drow spotted the night before road off stealing one of the horses!

Kaylessa finds herself completing stuck and unable to free herself. Vernar on the other hand can move some. He is strong enough to break the strands of webbing with his bare hands! Reaching his enchanted shortsword, Vernar is able to make even better progress.

Kaylessa calls out to Flare to come help, but her cries go unanswered. The erratic Ranger of Selune no doubt is sleeping off his evening's consumption of 'cider'.

With one last slice, Vernar frees himself and goes to rouse Flare with a kick to the shin. The startled ranger wakes up with a shout something about he thought they were melons and not apples. Once fully awake and coherent enough to understand the situation, Vernar sends Flare off to alert the others up in the Eagle's Nest of the danger. Returning to magical Web, Vernar works to free Kaylessa.


A short time later Flare reaches the top of the ramp to Eagle's Nest. Vardra is on duty and listens to Flare's roundabout report taking several minutes to get out. Sergeant Crandell is alerted to the situation.

“Clearly this drow has gone to alert the enemy forces of our presence,” the sergeant surmises. “Guests will be arriving.”

Sergeant Crandell rouses Kendell to has him stand guard while he, Flare and Vardra go down the ramp to investigate. Crandell and Vardra carry torches with them. The trio reach the base of Eagle's Nest about twenty minutes later. They find Vernar still working on freeing Kaylessa. With Vardra's help, Kaylessa is soon freed. The immediate area is searched, but no one else is found. The drow is long gone by now. The other horses, ponies and mules are undamaged. An hour later the webbing fades away into nothing.

“Let's stand down for now,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “Continue to stand guard. The rest of us will be down not long after first light after the spell casters have regained their spells. Once that drow reaches the enemy, we'll be having guests soon. Stay vigilant.”

Sergeant Crandell has Vardra remain with Flare, Kaylessa, and Vernar for now. Once up top, Crandell alerts those awake of what happened. Once everyone is up and the spell casters have regained spells, the whole group heads back down the ramp to face the challenges this new day will bring.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Moving things further along once more. Spell casters update/revise your spell lists in this post! Otherwise I will default to your previous lists!

Yes, that is a hint that things will get more exciting next post!

Here is what I'm having the NPC's spells set as:

Ren – Change Self, Color Spray, Sleep x2

Sorvani – Color Spray, Magic Missile, Sleep

Wimzy - 1st Level: Bless, Entangle x2
2nd Level: Hold Person, Silence 15: Radius.

Now what?

[Erisciana]

Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar -

Both Crandell and Erisciana respond to her query regarding the downing of trees. Butternut shrugs in response. "I cannot imagine that the trees would do more than delay them for a few hours, but do whatever you like."

The priestess nods emphatically. "Yes, that would be perfect. A few hours delay would push them that much closer to a daylight return potentially, which is exactly the point of the exercise. Allow the ambush to take place on our terms."
--------------------------------------------

Erisciana sleeps well. The slight commotion in the common area or in the men's sleeping chamber is not enough to wake her. She rises somewhat early, once properly rested, as the previous day was short and without much exertions. Some of the group is already awake, although others continue their slumber. She steps out into the main hall to see if there is any new information. Crandell relates the commotion during the night and his supposions.

The drow that accompanied the strike force that attacked the tower, and which the scouts had seen collaborating with the goblins in their lair, had made a sneak attack on the guards at the cave below. But she did not assault either of the helpless guards trapped in the webbing. According to information from Kaylessa and Vernar, she simply stole a horse and rode away.

Crandell was certain this meant she was going to warn the army encamped between them and Fort Graystone. “Clearly this drow has gone to alert the enemy forces of our presence,” the sergeant surmises. “Guests will be arriving.” The priestess was not so sure.

That is to say, she was not sure that the drow was going to alert the army. Or that she even needed to do so. She did expect to have guests and was a little surprised that there had not been an actual attack during the night. "The enemy forces already know we are here," Erisciana counters. "That the black flag continues to fly above the outpost marks us not only as having arrived here safely, but that we have held it now for two nights. Their strike force was unsuccessful. I would not be surprised if we were attacked in retaliation, as I stated before. But they do not need that drow to give them that information. It is already a known fact."

The priestess considers for a moment. "Also strange that she did not attack a helpless foe. Especially our friend Kaylessa, an elf. There is said to be much enmity between their races." Erisciana frowns for a moment. She will make a point to talk to the scouts below once they rendezvous. Another thought comes to her, "Has anyone checked on the location of the enemy from the observation tower as yet?"

Erisci will head up to the observation point for a brief moment. The whole of the army could not be seen before. She wondered if they had moved at all. Graystone at least could be seen from here and she peered out to get a glimpse of what may have happened there, if anything.

Once she sees what she is able, the priestess will return to gather her things from her personal effects and take them to a spare room, so as not to bother anyone still resting. She will complete her morning rituals and supplication to Ishtar. After a time, her spells are renewed (posted in the Spell List thread). She comes out of her prayerful meditations with a sense of foreboding and dread. Ishtar has appeared to warn her. As she reached the height of her orisons, she was transfixed by the image of a lion, standing on a mountain. The lion looked at her and then gestured with one great paw out over the valley below. A wave of black amorphous beings, all sharp and dangerous, was approaching. And then the vision was gone. She also felt some trepidation regarding their sergeant, Crandell. She wasn't sure though if it was concern 'about him' or 'from him'.

There wasn't much time to ruminate over the feelings and vision, however. As both a priestess and a purveyor of the arcane, she needed to spend the time praying for her spells as well as studying her spellbook to make changes for the expected conflict ahead. She was certain that there would be conflict coming, and it was increasingly imminent. She completed the arcane readings as quickly as she could, only changing two spells in her magickal repertoire. Afterwards, she prepared herself back in the women's bunk room. She completed a slight bit of make-up, afterall she was not some barbarian.

The priestess will then see if they are breaking the fast here or below with their comrades before she dons her armor. Crandell likely has some plan for the group.

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

Part way through his statement, Erisci shrugs her shoulders and raises her eyebrows, indicating she agrees but apparently their agreement has no bearing on the final decision. She does comment at the end briefly, "The dirt on the road is not packed hard enough that the scouts could not tell if a large number of humanoids and wagons came by. They should be able to tell if the supply caravan passed or not."

"That is something to be hoped for," Vardra acknowledges with a widening of his eyes in realization that he didn't consider that, "as long as there are no rains to wash the tracks away."

===

After a few hours of sleep, Vardra rises to take his turn on watch. He spends most of his time in the room bordering the ramp down, though occasionally he makes his way up to the top of the tower to check on the lights from the fort.

Returning from his seventh - or maybe eighth, he cannot recall for certain - trip up the tower, Vardra hears a soft noise from the barred doors. Moving closer, he hears it again. "Hsst! Wyvern!" The sound is coming from the other side of the barred doors, and it sounds like the odd woodsman! Vardra takes a moment to peek through the firing holes. "Flare, is that you?" Moments later he sees the expected face lean down and wave with a silly grin. "Hang on a moment while I unbar the door."

In truth, moving the huge oaken timber takes all the strength that he can manage. It takes some time, but eventually he is able to open the double doors. Vardra invites the ranger in. "You have news?" Flare launches into a rambling, disjointed account of the drow's visit. With a bit of coaxing, the story eventually takes shape. "Wait here," Vardra says to Flare, "I'll fetch the Sergeant."

Reaching the men's quarters, Vardra gives Crandell a quick shake. "Sergent Crandell? You better come, sir. Flare is here with news from below. Seems the drow has stolen one of the horses."

After conferring with Flare, Crandell determines that the drow has gone off to get reinforcements. Leaving Kendell on watch, he leads Vardra - who quickly grabs his gear on the suspicion that he won't be back before dawn - and Flare back down to the cave entrance where they confer with Vernar and Kaylessa. Seems those two got trapped in some sticky webbing due to a spell from the drow. What he learns from them seems to confirm his belief that the enemy will be coming to attack. Vardra's not sure what the enemy will get out of that, considering that the fort has already been warned, but better to be safe than sorry. He remains below with Flare, Vernar, and Kaylessa while the sergeant returns up top to organize the others. At least the remaining mounts are unharmed.

Now that they know the enemy is likely to come, Vardra talks to the others and recommends that two of them are on watch at all times through the rest of the night while the other pair rest. He offers to team with Flare for their shifts if Vernar and Kaylessa would like to take the other shifts. Hopefully they will be less likely to be taken unawares with two on guard at all times. Either way, it is going to be another long night...

During his first shift on ground level, Vardra will prepare a large campfire in the fire pit. He also sets up the handful of torches that he has with him around the area. While he won't light the fire or torches now, they will be ready in case the enemy arrives before dawn. If that happens, they'll need as much light as they can get.

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa
Her eyes go wide as a thick gluey substance envelops her in it’s embrace. For several moments she tries to struggle and strain against it, but it is for naught as she comes back to the way she started trapped and stranded by webbing that now controls her fate.
Thankfully Vernar is much more fortunate as she hears the dwarf slowly freeing himself.

"I will be a bit carvin' my way out," Vernar says as he begins trying to cut and pull away the webbing. "Get free if you can, otherwise I be gettin' t' you shortly."

“Sadly, I will be hanging her for the duration.” Kaylessa says as she looks in to the darkness wondering what will happen next. Surely the drow will see to a trapped victim and slaughter them. Taking a deep breath she swallows hard as the time crawls, her head fixed in the direction of the drow departure.
She calls for the ranger but to no avail.

Kaylessa calls out to Flare to come help, but her cries go unanswered. The erratic Ranger of Selune no doubt is sleeping off his evening's consumption of 'cider'.

“I will be emptying your wineskins come morning…” she mutters to herself angrily.
Returning to magical Web, Vernar works to free Kaylessa.
“If I see that wretch again it will be to soon.”she says to the dwarf as she can hear him cutting her free. “Thank you for coming back for me.”she says humbly having new respect for the dwarf.
Soon Vardra adds his sword to helping free her and the sergeant is there calling them to stand down and stand guard.
Saying her thanks, she walks away clearing stray webbing from her garb and hair. “This drow was not typical of what the stories have told. Dare I say she had honor? She did not strike at us when she could have slaughtered us. Unless she was looking for something, aside from our whereabouts.” She says to Vernar and the others.

Now that they know the enemy is likely to come, Vardra talks to the others and recommends that two of them are on watch at all times through the rest of the night while the other pair rest. He offers to team with Flare for their shifts if Vernar and Kaylessa would like to take the other shifts. Hopefully they will be less likely to be taken unawares with two on guard at all times. Either way, it is going to be another long night...

Kaylessa looks at the soldier curiously as he recommends two people per shift for remaining of the night. “We have been doing just that.” The elf maiden says in reply. Looking to Vernar, “I’ll try not to get stuck this time.” She says with a wry smile. ( She is bitter she got trapped.)
Kaylessa will ready her bow and knock an arrow to it. If a fire is lit she will move so that the fire does not mess with her nightsight.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus
Having slept well, Lucyus did not hear the commotion of Vardra waking the sergeant. He awakens and stretches his back and shoulders. The light of the new day barely visible, like hope. Drawing himself to his knees he goes through his daily prayers and prays for his patrons guidance and protection.
Lucyus takes his time putting on his armor, making sure that it feels right. He then takes his battle ax and hones the edge, testing it with his thumb. Sheathing the butterfly blade across his back along with his shield he moves to the common area partaking in some dried rations and water.

That is to say, she was not sure that the drow was going to alert the army. Or that she even needed to do so. She did expect to have guests and was a little surprised that there had not been an actual attack during the night. "The enemy forces already know we are here," Erisciana counters. "That the black flag continues to fly above the outpost marks us not only as having arrived here safely, but that we have held it now for two nights. Their strike force was unsuccessful. I would not be surprised if we were attacked in retaliation, as I stated before. But they do not need that drow to give them that information. It is already a known fact."

Lucyus looks to the priestess, “They come to secure their supply lines. Sadly, our outpost can be seen as a beacon against our foes or a place of safe haven from the horde before us. They will come here like an ocean, hopefully to break upon us like it would rock.” The paladin says hopefully.

The priestess considers for a moment. "Also strange that she did not attack a helpless foe. Especially our friend Kaylessa, an elf. There is said to be much enmity between their races." Erisciana frowns for a moment. She will make a point to talk to the scouts below once they rendezvous. Another thought comes to her, "Has anyone checked on the location of the enemy from the observation tower as yet?"

“I have not, my eyes are not the best for scouting, I am afraid.” The Paladin says back evenly.
Once up top, Crandell alerts those awake of what happened. Once everyone is up and the spell casters have regained spells, the whole group heads back down the ramp to face the challenges this new day will bring.
An old saying of his mentor comes to him a slight smile begins to etch upon his face as he recalled the meeting. ‘You are either the hammer or the anvil. To stand defiant before your adversary as blows rain upon you, you hold true to your beliefs and faith. Or to be a weapon to rain blows upon your foe. To destroy what it once was, changing it to be something more for the better. To be an instrument of change.’ With a deep breath, “I am both.”he says silently to himself as he picks up his spear and follows the others to the coming dawn.
“It is darkest before the dawn.” He says confidently.

[Vernar]

Vernar -

With one last slice, Vernar frees himself and goes to rouse Flare with a kick to the shin. The startled ranger wakes up with a shout something about he thought they were melons and not apples. Once fully awake and coherent enough to understand the situation, Vernar sends Flare off to alert the others up in the Eagle's Nest of the danger. Returning to magical Web, Vernar works to free Kaylessa.

"An odd one he be," Vernar mumbles aloud as he shakes his head, returning to see Kaylessa still stuck deep in the magical webbing. Continuing with the enchanted blade, Vernar gets busy cutting a path to reach Kaylessa and get her free.

“If I see that wretch again it will be to soon.” she says to the dwarf as she can hear him cutting her free. “Thank you for coming back for me.” she says humbly having new respect for the dwarf.

"Well o' course I came back," Vernar replies, completely missing any doubt or surprise in Kaylessa's response. "I be givin' my word an' I not be leavin' you stuck in this mess."

Soon Vardra adds his sword to helping free her and the sergeant is there calling them to stand down and stand guard.
Saying her thanks, she walks away clearing stray webbing from her garb and hair. “This drow was not typical of what the stories have told. Dare I say she had honor? She did not strike at us when she could have slaughtered us. Unless she was looking for something, aside from our whereabouts.” She says to Vernar and the others.

Vernar nods his thanks to Vardra as he arrives to help make shorter work of the magical webbing. Finally, the hard work pays off and Kaylessa is free. She says something about honor and the dark elf, which Vernar muses over for a bit before responding.

"Not sure if she be honorable or just short on time," he considers aloud. "Dependin' on when the caravan be movin' she may have had t' rush. Either that or she not be viewin' us as much o' a threat t' her plans, but that would be a big mistake."

Kaylessa looks at the soldier curiously as he recommends two people per shift for remaining of the night. “We have been doing just that.” The elf maiden says in reply. Looking to Vernar, “I’ll try not to get stuck this time.” She says with a wry smile.

Vernar simply nods at her insistence on not getting stuck again, although with a spell like that, Vernar isn't sure exactly what could have been done differently. He positions himself at the edge of the firelight to not ruin his vision and remains vigilant until it is time to gather together once more.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Before going to bed, Butternut approaches Laurel regarding a spell.

The young woman looks up at the halfling, brushing her hair behind her ear. "Oh..." is her initial reply. She thinks for a few seconds, "That sounds like an incredibly useful spell. Are you sure you want to use it on me? It sounded like they were planning on putting Vernar on the front lines tomorrow, maybe he would be a better recipient." Laurel then pauses for another second, "But he's down guarding the horses tonight, so there's that." The young woman then blushes and stutters, "I suppose I am being rude, you are being incredibly kind to offer your spell. If you think I'm the best person for it I'm happy to accept your boon."

Butternut pauses for a second as she considers her response. "I considered offering it to Wimzy, but I've seen that woman fight and I'm not sure she needs it. Same with Vernar. You're new to the group and - I hope you don't mind me saying so - but you seem more scholar than warrior to me. Besides, it's very important to keep the healers alive so that you can keep the rest of us healthy." Unless the priestess changes her mind, Butternut will cast Armor on her.

Rising with the sun, Butternut finds that there has been some kind of commotion below, but the details are sketchy. The halfling washes herself off a bit with a washrag before getting dressed. The most pressing priority is to rework her memorized spells, so she grabs a bite to eat and pulls out her spell-book. Of her previous spells, the only one remaining unused is Shocking Grasp; despite being in several fights, she has yet to have a good situation to use it. Based on the strategy discussions from the previous day, she has a pretty good idea which spells she wants to have available today. With that decision made, she digs in and starts memorizing. This is one of her least favorite parts of being a wizard, but it is necessary.

When she is done, Crandell makes it clear that it is time to descend and see what the new day has brought. As she gathers up her things and prepares, Butternut makes sure to grab one of the spare vials of oil to use with her Metamorphose Liquids spell. Once her backpack is ready and secured, she collects her weapons and makes ready to depart. She makes one last pass through the 'ladies dorm' and the storeroom to ensure that she has what she needs for the day.

While she waits for everyone else to be ready, Butternut examines her new crossbow carefully, looking for anything that might hint at its endowed enchantment. It occurs to her that dwarves tend to be fond of crossbows, and Gerett uses one as well, so she approaches him. "Hey Gerett. Any thoughts on what kind of enchantments might be on this crossbow or your new bolts?"

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

April 14th, CR 569

There is some excitement during the night for those guarding the horses. The drow spotted the night before was spotted again after she webbed up Kaylessa and Vernar. After that the drow stole a horse and rode off into the night. Vernar freed himself and woke Flare. The erratic Ranger of Selune went up the ramp to the Eagle's Nest to alert the rest of the squad.

Vernar was still working to free Kaylessa when Vardra and Sergeant Crandell arrived with Flare. With Vardra's help, Kaylessa was soon freed. With the danger seemingly passed, Sergeant Crandell gave the order to stand down. The rest of the group would arrive in the morning after the spell casters gained regained their magics. The rest of the night passed quietly.


At first light, Sergeant Crandell wakes anyone still asleep. The morning meal is had while spells are regained. Erisciana goes up to the top of the observation tower to see what is going on down in the valley.

With the light of day, the priestess can see that the enemy army has reached Fort Graystone. There are smoke from several fires bellowing up into the morning sky. Most of the fires are from outside the fort, but a few are from inside the walls of Graystone. It's too far away to make any more details but suffice to say the battle as begun!


Once the spell casters are ready, the squad heads down the ramp. Everyone is encouraged to take all the gear they think they will need with them as it is unknown if you will make it back to Eagle's Nest today. Extra bolts and arrows are grabbed by those using those kind of weapons. The food is divided up among everyone.


All is quiet at the base of the ramp up to Eagle's Nest. In the day light, more of the road that winds its way up to the side of the hill can be seen. It was this winding road that delayed the strike force and gave the group enough time to devise a plan to deal with the invaders. The road eventually goes into the forest and out of sight.

“Let's mount up and get ready to move!” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “We've got enemy forces to engage!”

Horses are mounted up once more. Kendell is annoyed to discover that the horse the drow stole was his! The extra food and water for the horses are added to the mounts just in case. Once mounted up, the riders start to gather near the top of the road. Sergeant Crandell is there, mounted on his horse.

“Alright, let's move out!” the Sergeant calls out as he looks back at the rest of the group.

At that moment, a whistling sound fills the ears of those with sharp hearing. It sounds familiar and yet strange at the same time. Just as some are starting to realize what that sound is, there is a sudden thunk as if something solid was struck!

Those closest to Sergeant Crandell are startled to find that the noise was from an arrow! An arrow that struck Sergeant Crandell in the back of his head and now the point of it erupted out of his face! Without a sound, the sergeant falls off his horse to the ground!

More whistling sounds are heard as more arrows are launched from unseen enemies. These arrows appear to be coming from the edge of the forest further down the hill. Several dozen arrows fill the air as they bear down on the combined squads!

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Raise your hand if you saw that coming! As in the grand tradition of this game, another sergeant bites the dust. Everyone is in the same general area and on horse back. Arrows are flying towards you. What will you do?

It is assumed that all the food that there was is now being carried by the squads. All the water skins are on hand as well. There is food and water for the horses for a few days. Spare bolts and arrows are being carried by those who use them. Sann is with you.

Here is an expanded map of the area showing the road going back and forth down the hill until it reaches the forest. Turns out the map I made was too big for the forum. So I uploaded it to the private area. Here is the link for it:

Area Map

Now what?

[Erisciana]

Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar -

The priestess goes up to the tower to check on the situation with the enemy and Fort Greystone. Not unexpectedly, the enemy has begun their attack. She takes some solace in the fact that most of the smoke and fires are outside the walls, as best as she can tell. But the enemy has done some damage and fire is also burning inside the fort itself. She cannot see details, but clearly the siege has begun.

Erisciana will inform the sergeant and the others of what she saw. "The siege is obviously in the early stages. The defenders have struck blows against the horde, but the enemy has done damage within the walls as well. It is impossible to tell more from here due to the distance and the billowing smoke."

The group up in the tower breaks their fast before heading down to their guards below. Erisci will eat sufficiently but somewhat sparingly. The vision she received from Ishtar seemed to indicate a battle may be coming very soon. She will array herself in her armor completely. To those who have not seen her in her full armor before, she is decked out in an ornate suit of studded leather armor. It consists mostly of hardened leather pieces which have been form-fitted to her body. Clearly the armor was made to exacting proportions for her. The studs were smaller than might be seen on other armor and were done in contrasting colors of silver and brass to create a fine intricate pattern which carried over all parts of the armor. Looking closely one could see that the design was that of intertwined leaved vines and flowers. In addition, parts of the armor were dyed or tinted along the edgings to have a darker blue hue along the upper edges and a pinker hue along the bottom edges.

A dark blue scarf wound around her armoured torso and over her shoulder, leaving only the breastplate and shoulder armor showing. The armor was worn over the clothing she had been seen in earlier and the color could be seen through the gaps in the armor, which covered her upper and lower arms at strategic points. A heavy belt was worn about her waist and short black gloves were tucked in at one side. On the other her flanged mace was secured to her side. A sort of leather plaited skirt, with decorative and protective studs hung from her waist. It was also in the dyed colors, but were alternating panels of the colors to create a pleasing pattern. More fitted leather plates were secured to her thighs with blackened leather straps and her shin pieces extended from high enough to protect her knees down to her ankles and connected to a sort of sandal that also had a protective plate over part of the top of her feet.

Most of her face and the sides of her head were covered by a metal-reinforced leather mask. It served to also keep her voluminous head of hair away from her face when fighting.

The group collects up all their belongings and heads to the bottom of the ramp in small groups. They meet up with the group below and the priestess asks Kaylessa and Vernar more specifically about what happened.

“Let's mount up and get ready to move!” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “We've got enemy forces to engage!”

There they mount up the horses and Crandell prepares to lead them to where, he has not said. Erisci thinks it strange that he has not shared the plans for the day, unless he intends to attack the besieging force back at the fort. She hopes he is not so foolish. Perhaps he expects the incoming enemy purported to be coming for them. Erisci cautioned about that possibility two nights before, after they defeated the priests. They might have been better served preparing for that eventuality than the day used to scout out a site for an ambush.

“Alright, let's move out!” the Sergeant calls out as he looks back at the rest of the group.

At that moment, a whistling sound fills the ears of those with sharp hearing. It sounds familiar and yet strange at the same time. Just as some are starting to realize what that sound is, there is a sudden thunk as if something solid was struck!

There is a collective gasp in the group as the sound is revealed to be a gruesome fatal wound to the head of the sergeant. Erisci has seen battle before, but she starts uncomfortably as the arrowhead erupts from the front of the sergeant's face and blood and flesh splatter onto Lucyus, who was mounted nearby. Crandell's body slumps and slides off his horse to the ground.

Recognition immediately sets in however and Erisci sends her voice over the inevitable chatter and the shriek of incoming arrows. "Take cover!" she shouts. "Head to the trees!" The priestess will direct her horse at a gallop back to the treeline. She will hesitate long enough to make sure everyone is following and no one else is wounded or otherwise unable to follow.

Once they are all into cover and no one needs to be helped to the trees, she will address the group. "Archers! Take up firing points and see if we can take out some of the enemy. But do not waste the ammunition if you don't have a target. Everyone else, set yourselves up behind trees or rocks. No reason to have anyone wounded by stray shots."

Erisci will take in the situation and prepare a plan.

[Lucyus]

Lucyus
Reaching the base of the ramp, the growing light shines off his armor as he comes into the light. The warmth of the sun is welcoming.

All is quiet at the base of the ramp up to Eagle's Nest. In the day light, more of the road that winds its way up to the side of the hill can be seen. It was this winding road that delayed the strike force and gave the group enough time to devise a plan to deal with the invaders. The road eventually goes into the forest and out of sight.
Taking a look toward the road there is no sign of anything and soon the Sgt calls them to mount up.
“Let's mount up and get ready to move!” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “We've got enemy forces to engage!”

Horses are mounted up once more. Kendell is annoyed to discover that the horse the drow stole was his! The extra food and water for the horses are added to the mounts just in case. Once mounted up, the riders start to gather near the top of the road. Sergeant Crandell is there, mounted on his horse.
Lucyus does not linger he moves to his horse, stabs his spear within the ground and mounts his horse, he pats the side of the mount as he reclaims the spear and shakes the earth from it’s tip. His mount moves beneath him, telling him that he wants to run. “Soon you can stretch your legs.”

“Alright, let's move out!” the Sergeant calls out as he looks back at the rest of the group.

Those closest to Sergeant Crandell are startled to find that the noise was from an arrow! An arrow that struck Sergeant Crandell in the back of his head and now the point of it erupted out of his face! Without a sound, the sergeant falls off his horse to the ground!

Having been close to the Sgt, Lucyus is about to kick his heels as he hears a whistling. For several moments he wonders what it is as a sudden thunk of it finding it’s target. He feels something wet and warm splatter across his face and beard. Bringing his gunatleted hand to his face and pulls it away, only to see the unmistakable sign of someone’s life blood. He looks up questioningly and about him seeing if anyone is hurt as he sees the Sgt. Sway in his saddle and drop to the ground.

An arrow protrudes through his face, knocking teeth and bone through the puncture. He watches in shock as the Sgt’s life blood spills from his wound.

Recognition immediately sets in however and Erisci sends her voice over the inevitable chatter and the shriek of incoming arrows. "Take cover!" she shouts. "Head to the trees!" The priestess will direct her horse at a gallop back to the treeline. She will hesitate long enough to make sure everyone is following and no one else is wounded or otherwise unable to follow.

More whistling is heard as he looks about seeing Kendell without a mount… He hears Erisci’s words. “Get to the trees! Kendell the Sgt’s horse is yours!!!” bringing his shield to bare and kicking his mount into motion. He will direct his horse toward the trees.

[Kaylessa]

Kaylessa
Taking up the reigns to her horse she quickly mounts as her horses steps here and there, seemingly like it would run. She looks to the others to see if anyone needs a ride and offers them in turn if needed.
The Sgt calls for them to move out and a strange whistling is heard and then a profound thunk! The sounds sound very much like an arrow and the thunk finding it’s target. She looks about to see the Sgt fall from his mount.

Recognition immediately sets in however and Erisci sends her voice over the inevitable chatter and the shriek of incoming arrows. "Take cover!" she shouts. "Head to the trees!" The priestess will direct her horse at a gallop back to the treeline. She will hesitate long enough to make sure everyone is following and no one else is wounded or otherwise unable to follow.

Having her bow at the ready, Kaylessa kicks her mount as she moves her mount to the trees. Once there she will take up position behind a tree that gives her a view of the road leading up. She will then knock an arrow and fire in the direction of the volley had come from looking for targets before she releases.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

I've been getting questions about the lay of the land, so I created a better map for the game area.

Here is the link

This map should show how everything relates to everything else. I'll update this new map as new areas are discovered.

[Vardra]

Vardra Marcus, PFC:

Vernar nods his thanks to Vardra as he arrives to help make shorter work of the magical webbing. Finally, the hard work pays off and Kaylessa is free.

Soon Vardra adds his sword to helping free her and the sergeant is there calling them to stand down and stand guard.
Saying her thanks, she walks away clearing stray webbing from her garb and hair.

"You're welcome, Kaylessa," Vardra says evenly, "though I dare say Vernar did most of the work." He smiles at the dwarf. "Seems like you're both okay. Whatever this stuff is, it's awfully hard to cut."

Kaylessa looks at the soldier curiously as he recommends two people per shift for remaining of the night. “We have been doing just that.” The elf maiden says in reply.

Vardra nods, seeing that they already have things worked out for the shifts. "I didn't know that, as I was up above. Sounds good."

Lucyus looks to the priestess, “They come to secure their supply lines. Sadly, our outpost can be seen as a beacon against our foes or a place of safe haven from the horde before us. They will come here like an ocean, hopefully to break upon us like it would rock.” The paladin says hopefully.

"I was wondering why they would bother with us, as the fort has already been warned. It seems that they have little to gain from attacking us. Perhaps it is as you say, or perhaps simply out of anger at us for having warned the fort and ruined the surprise of their attack," Vardra says with a shrug.


Those remaining outside split up the shifts for the rest of the night. When not on guard duty, Vardra gets what sleep he can.

Morning comes, and Vardra takes the opportunity to clean up in the stream and eat from the stores in his pack. He also takes a very careful look at his new shield, looking for markings or insignia that might hint at its function. Afterward, he checks on the mounts and any supplies remaining in their packs. Other than one missing horse, the mounts appear to all be there and in good health.

Eventually, Sergeant Crandell returns to the base of the ramp with the rest of the squad. Vardra will approach him as they emerge from the cave mouth. Addressing the group, Vardra asks, "Does anyone have any means of checking for poison? It seems the drow stole one of our horses during the night. Since quite a bit of our food was stored with the mounts in their saddlebags, I'm concerned that she might have poisoned it." As the food from the overlook is added to the saddlebags, Vardra recommends that it be kept separate from any food that was down here overnight.

Sergeant Crandell orders the squad to mount up and prepare to ride. He seems intent on finding the enemy and engaging; whether he means the expected supply caravan, or forces sent to engage the squad is unclear. The sergeant gets his wish sooner than he might have wished.

A flight of arrows comes whistling in from down the hill. It takes Vardra several precious seconds to recognize sound from his grandfather's stories. Then he hears a sound he knows from his own training and experience -- the sound of an arrow embedding itself into flesh. "We're under fire!" he calls out, adding his voice to those of Erisciana and Lucyus, who seem to have come to the same realization. "Get to cover!" Vardra hears another flight of arrows comes winging towards them; they seem to be coming from the woods to the southwest. Holding his shield high, Vardra spurs Forelock to interpose his armored body and shield between the arrows and one of his less-armored comrades, doing his best to escort them to safety. He is vaguely aware of Crandell sliding off his horse and falling to the ground, but doesn't have time to react to that right now. He must get the living to safety as quickly as possible. Riding back and forth, he escorts all those who appear to be at greatest risk until everyone is within the cover of the trees.

Seeing that no one is left in the open, Vardra dismounts behind some trees. Taking a position with a good view down the hill, he readies his bow and looks for a target to return fire. As he does so, the soldier assesses the situation and terrain, and evaluating tactical options.

________________________________________________________________________________
For a sense of scale, about how far is it from the woods at the top of the map to the woods at the bottom? Also, about how wide is the road?

[Vernar]

Vernar -

There is a collective gasp in the group as the sound is revealed to be a gruesome fatal wound to the head of the sergeant. Erisci has seen battle before, but she starts uncomfortably as the arrowhead erupts from the front of the sergeant's face and blood and flesh splatter onto Lucyus, who was mounted nearby. Crandell's body slumps and slides off his horse to the ground.

Recognition immediately sets in however and Erisci sends her voice over the inevitable chatter and the shriek of incoming arrows. "Take cover!" she shouts. "Head to the trees!" The priestess will direct her horse at a gallop back to the treeline. She will hesitate long enough to make sure everyone is following and no one else is wounded or otherwise unable to follow.

"What the..?" is about all Vernar can mutter before seeing the now-dead sergeant slide from his horse and fall unceremoniously onto the ground. Erisciana, followed quickly by Lucyus, start yelling to get further into the trees for cover. Vernar wastes little time trying to turn his horse and head in that direction. Once successful, Vernar risks a quick glance towards the others, especially Sann, to make sure they are doing the same.

Once safely in the trees, Vernar will dismount and shove his horse in a direction away from where he believes the enemies are currently. Drawing his enchanted sword and his axe, he will look for the darkest, shadiest spot to try to hide in shadows and wait for either a target to come stumbling near him or for either Erisciana or Lucyus to issue further orders.

[GM Mad]

For a sense of scale, about how far is it from the woods at the top of the map to the woods at the bottom? Also, about how wide is the road?

The closest of the enemy archers is around 170 yards away. For a better sense of scale from the cave opening to the word Squad is around 90'. I may do a better map down the road.

The road varies widely in width. Probably around 6' wide at the smallest and up to 20' in other places.

[Butternut]

Butternut:

Erisciana will inform the sergeant and the others of what she saw. "The siege is obviously in the early stages. The defenders have struck blows against the horde, but the enemy has done damage within the walls as well. It is impossible to tell more from here due to the distance and the billowing smoke."

The halfling warrior grimaces. "And so it begins..." she murmurs softly.

At her best guess, it is mid-morning or so by time they descend the ramp to join those outside. The sergeant orders them to mount up, so the halfling goes to find Zephyr; fortunately, the pony is still present and in good health. Butternut hands over an apple that she had been saving as she greets her four-footed friend, then starts collecting the rope used to create this make-shift corral.

Noting Kendell's frustration, she approaches and asks the large warrior what the trouble is. It seems that the drow returned during the night and stole a horse, which just happened to be the one Kendell had ridden previously. Unfortunately, there is no way that Zephyr would be able to bear so much extra weight. "Are there any spare horses that you can ride, Kendell?"

Butternut is just maneuvering Zephyr toward her usual place in the front of the squad when Crandell calls out for them to move out. Urging Zephyr forward, Butternut hears a strange sound that reminds her of a strong wind through the tree branches in winter, yet there is no more than a light breeze now. Moments later, there is a sound she knows very well, that of an arrow striking a body, and others clattering to the ground. There is a spray of red from the sergeant, who then topples off his horse! Lucyus calls out that Kendall can take the sergeant's horse, which draws a snort of grim amusement from her

Pulling the reins sharply, Butternut turns Zephyr toward the woods nearby just as several of the others call out that they should get into cover. She rides well into the woods and stops near the stream. Dismounting quickly, she ties Zephyr to one of the trees, then readies her crossbow and moves to crouch behind a tree. She peeks out and surveys down the hill, spotting another wooded area just within bowshot. Butternut watches carefully for any movement or continued arrow fire that might identify a target, ready to return fire as soon as she is able.

[Gerett]

"I'm willing to stay with you, Gerett," Butternut says. "I doubt they'd have much luck finding me in the woods if I don't want them too." Gerett then proceeds to provide Laurel with a list of items they're likely to need the next day, which she dutifully writes down. "Extra arrows and quarrels wouldn't be a bad idea, either..."

"Having three unsupported scouts here, so far away from the rest of us, essentially puts them on their own. We would not even know anything is happening, and even if Flare's pet could warn us, we are too far away to influence any battle that occurred. While our scouts are indeed skilled, they could still be out-numbered, or ambushed, or led into a trap by a devious enemy. Scouting the caravan at this specific spot," she says pointing to the area where they plan the ambush, "is entirely irrelevant. We could just as easily scout upwards of the fork and be in a better defensive position. And if there is no caravan tonight, but there is an assault on Eagle's Nest again, then we will be lacking three of our number in defense. I prefer your idea of having the scouts nearer the fork."
...
"I agree that we could have scouts that also keep watch for the caravan. But the further away from Eagle's Nest, the more danger we could all be in as our numbers are divided. On the road to Eagle's Nest, above the fork, seems less dangerous to me and lets the scouts see the caravan potentially as well as an attacking force sent against our defenses. There is less chance to cut the scouts off and little chance an enemy appears tonight at our barred doors." She pauses for a moment. "I would bet a gold daric that the caravan is not coming through this soon. That does not mean we should not watch for it. Although, the sergeant seems to have his mind made up."

"Fair enough. With the enemy numbers we're better together. Though it seems the more of us we get in one place the less we get done. No one person here is being difficult, but the fact is that we rode out all this way essentially to talk, and we still haven't even really decided anything. But you're right. We should take advantage of our fortress as much as possible."

Those not on guard duty make their way up the ramp. The Eagle's Nest is as it was left a few hours ago. No sign of anyone else here. A guard rotation is set up to keep watch. The outer most door is secured, but the inner door is open for now.

Rations and water are had as the night slowly passes. Eventually most are asleep in the Eagle's Nest with the exception of the guards.

Gerett joins the others in Eagle's Nest as the scouts seem to have things under control. "Won't argue with another good night's sleep," he says, mainly to himself. He's frustrated with the lack of progress and direction. It was difficult for him to follow what the actual objective was at any given time and the lack of leadership was only drawing things out. Crandall was taking charge, but he seemed to do so by allowing lengthy discussion and then coming down hard on a decision that may or may not actually be taking the discussion into account. For good or ill, however, Gerett could sense that things were coming to a violent head--hopefully between them and the enemy--and things would get much simpler at that point.

"Goblins? Certainly," Vardra acknowledges. "On the other hand, if it is the ogres and giants that Lucyus mentioned earlier, I would much rather be feathering them with arrows from a distance."

"For me, if I can pelt from a distance I will, and if I can't I'm happy to hold a line. Neither my legs nor my weapon are suited for headlong charges, but I can receive a charge from just about anythin'."

Hey Gerett. Any thoughts on what kind of enchantments might be on this crossbow or your new bolts?"

"Naw, this is all new to me. Guess I'll find out when I stick 'em in a goblin whether they set them on fire or freeze 'em or whatever. Hopefully they aren't Arrows of Healing."

“Clearly this drow has gone to alert the enemy forces of our presence,” the sergeant surmises. “Guests will be arriving.”

Sergeant Crandell rouses Kendell to has him stand guard while he, Flare and Vardra go down the ramp to investigate. Crandell and Vardra carry torches with them. The trio reach the base of Eagle's Nest about twenty minutes later. They find Vernar still working on freeing Kaylessa. With Vardra's help, Kaylessa is soon freed. The immediate area is searched, but no one else is found. The drow is long gone by now. The other horses, ponies and mules are undamaged. An hour later the webbing fades away into nothing.

“Let's stand down for now,” Sergeant Crandell calls out. “Continue to stand guard. The rest of us will be down not long after first light after the spell casters have regained their spells. Once that drow reaches the enemy, we'll be having guests soon. Stay vigilant.”

The drow's choice to web the scouts, and speak to them, confuses Gerett. Maybe it was an elf thing--some sort of parting gloat. He knew better than to expect any sort of sincerity from the wretch. But he feared it was not as simple as her leaving to warn the rest of the force. He kept his concerns to himself. If her goal was to disorient them, it would be better to ignore her.

Gerett readies himself for the battle that Crandell is confident is coming. The enemy outnumbered them, but their group seemed to be better skilled and a prepared position. This would be close.

An old saying of his mentor comes to him a slight smile begins to etch upon his face as he recalled the meeting. ‘You are either the hammer or the anvil. To stand defiant before your adversary as blows rain upon you, you hold true to your beliefs and faith. Or to be a weapon to rain blows upon your foe. To destroy what it once was, changing it to be something more for the better. To be an instrument of change.’ With a deep breath, “I am both.”he says silently to himself as he picks up his spear and follows the others to the coming dawn.
“It is darkest before the dawn.” He says confidently.

In his command Gerett had never been one for speeches, but he realized the importance of morale. His personal style had been one-on-one conversations with his soldiers before a battle--but his command was small enough for that to be feasible. Even if they could not agree on tactics, it was encouraging to Gerett that Erisciana and Lucyus seemed to have some sense of purpose for why they were here, and the charisma to communicate it to the others. For himself, he was certainly an anvil--both in fighting style and his current lot in life. The blows that rained on him were nothing he couldn't handle, and others had it much worse. But it was long past since he had been an instrument of any change. Perhaps this Greystone business would change that--but only if the group could agree on exactly what they were doing here.

Those closest to Sergeant Crandell are startled to find that the noise was from an arrow! An arrow that struck Sergeant Crandell in the back of his head and now the point of it erupted out of his face! Without a sound, the sergeant falls off his horse to the ground!

When they reach the bottom things escalate quickly--the enemy makes the first strike and also draws first blood since the massacre at the start of Gerett's involvement. As quickly as it starts, it's over--at least for poor Crandell.

"Guess we're the anvil," Gerett says morbidly in Lucyus' direction. He stands diagonally adjacent to any other ranged combatants (who aren't hiding), slightly forward so any enemy closing to melee has to engage him first. He'll keep his polearm at close reach and begin firing as soon as he has a target, unless he receives other orders.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed