Operation: Graystone #20
April 14th, CR 569
The combined squads are mounted up and ready to ride back to the goblin lair to, presumably, engage the supply caravan. Sergeant Crandell awaits at the top of the road that winds its way down the mountain. As the sergeant is speaking, a lone arrow comes flying in and lands in the back of his head. The point emerges from the front and the sergeant falls off his horse and to the ground.
More arrows fill the area and the group scatters, looking for shelter in the light forest nearby or behind the base of the mountain on the other side. Crandell's horse is understandably spooked and gallops off. Arrows start to land all around the group and their mounts. Many just strike the earth, but others hit living targets!
Of the squad members themselves, only Sorvani is actually hit but it was just a scratch. The effect on the horses is more dramatic. Erisciana's horse is hit, but seems to only be a flesh wound. Many of the horses, lacking any sort of protection, take damage from the arrows. Flare, Gerett, Kendell, Laurel, Ren and Sorvani's mounts are all wounded to varying degrees. Ren's mount looks to be in the worst shape, but is fine compared Vernar's mount who was killed by several arrows!
The squad reaches the trees or the rocks and looks around for their attackers. The road seems to be clear of any enemies. Those with better vision can see movement on the edge of the treeline further down the hill. It is from this vantage point that the enemy is firing their arrows. Best guess would put the enemy in the sixty to seventy range in number.
Kaylessa takes shelter behind a tree, grabs an arrow and then takes aim at the enemy down the hill. She fires and is dismayed to find that her shot falls short. They are simply too far away for her short bow to reach!
Vardra does the same, after making sure everyone has reached safety. He fires his composite longbow and his arrows have the distance to reach the enemy. However, he cannot be sure if he actually hit anything or not.
Vernar moves away from his slain mount and makes sure that Sann gets to safety. The dwarf then moves into the shadows of the trees and waits for the enemy to arrive.
Gerett and Kendell go to the shelter of the rock face on the other side of the road and wait for a target to attack.
Butternut rides further into the woods than the rest, all the way to the small stream. The halfling dismounts her horse and ties the reigns to a tree. Readying her crossbow, Butternut looks out from behind the shelter of a tree. The enemy is quite far away. She can see that one of the arrows fired from another of the squad did not even reach the enemy.
As Butternut lines up her shot, she catches movement out of the corner of her eye. Daring a glance that way, she sees a small group of goblinoids far to her left! They have a rope secured to a tree and they are using it to climb up to this area! These new arrivals are tall, taller than Kendell and wear studded leather armor. Butternut can see three of these beings by the rope, two of them looking down the drop off where no doubt more of their kind are climbing up! The other glances about to make sure no one is around.
Operation: Graystone #20
Operation: Graystone #20
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
GM Notes:
Those who are climbing are obviously much taller than goblins and even bit taller and wider than orcs. So its not either of those races. They are coming up on the far left hand side of this area past the stream. They are about 75' away from Butternut. They are just around the corner so that they could not be seen from the top of the road.
Hit Points:
Sorvani – 14 of 15
Many of the horses took damage. Vernar's horse was killed and Ren's was badly wounded. Without getting into specifics, Ren's horse lost 66% of its hit points. The horses rode by Flare, Sorvani and Vardra lost around 50% of their hit points. The other wounded horses are in better shape.
However, there were a lot of mounts available to the group. Wyvern Squad had 8 mounts, has did Chimera Squad. That's 16 right there. Sann's group of explorers had 5 mules and what remained of Talon Squad had 3 more horses, so that's a grand total of 24 mounts. 22 now counting the one the drow stole and the one just slain. Still lots of critters to ride!
I did assume that Wimzy was riding with Lucyus once more and scampered to safety.
The enemy archers are far enough away that some ranged weapons, such as a short bow, won't reach them. The other ranged weapons, such as longbows, composite longbows and crossbows are close to their maximum range.
Now what?
Those who are climbing are obviously much taller than goblins and even bit taller and wider than orcs. So its not either of those races. They are coming up on the far left hand side of this area past the stream. They are about 75' away from Butternut. They are just around the corner so that they could not be seen from the top of the road.
Hit Points:
Sorvani – 14 of 15
Many of the horses took damage. Vernar's horse was killed and Ren's was badly wounded. Without getting into specifics, Ren's horse lost 66% of its hit points. The horses rode by Flare, Sorvani and Vardra lost around 50% of their hit points. The other wounded horses are in better shape.
However, there were a lot of mounts available to the group. Wyvern Squad had 8 mounts, has did Chimera Squad. That's 16 right there. Sann's group of explorers had 5 mules and what remained of Talon Squad had 3 more horses, so that's a grand total of 24 mounts. 22 now counting the one the drow stole and the one just slain. Still lots of critters to ride!
I did assume that Wimzy was riding with Lucyus once more and scampered to safety.
The enemy archers are far enough away that some ranged weapons, such as a short bow, won't reach them. The other ranged weapons, such as longbows, composite longbows and crossbows are close to their maximum range.
Now what?
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Butternut:
With Zephyr secured, Butternut glides quietly though the woods to a spot overlooking both the road and the gully to the east. As she crouches down, several of her comrades' arrows wing their way downhill, with one falling well short of the woods below. Undoubtedly, that is where the enemy fired from.
She scans for a target, but it is far away and hard to spot details. There are several likely spots that she suspects may hide archers, though none are clearly visible.
A movement off to her left catches the halfling's attention. She spots several goblinoids, which she quickly identifies as hobgoblins -- the larger, nastier cousins of goblins. "Perfect..." she thinks. It seems Arvoreen has blessed her this day with targets aplenty.
A quick glance back toward the cave entrance reveals that none of the other squad members are in sight, so Butternut reaches down and picks up whatever rock or stick she finds nearby and flings it in the general direction of the rest of Wyvern Squad. "Hopefully that will get their attention." Aware that she cannot take on a group of hobgoblins by herself, she casts Sleep, hoping to thin their ranks a bit. The nearest one that's still standing afterward will receive the gift of a crossbow bolt.
With Zephyr secured, Butternut glides quietly though the woods to a spot overlooking both the road and the gully to the east. As she crouches down, several of her comrades' arrows wing their way downhill, with one falling well short of the woods below. Undoubtedly, that is where the enemy fired from.
She scans for a target, but it is far away and hard to spot details. There are several likely spots that she suspects may hide archers, though none are clearly visible.
A movement off to her left catches the halfling's attention. She spots several goblinoids, which she quickly identifies as hobgoblins -- the larger, nastier cousins of goblins. "Perfect..." she thinks. It seems Arvoreen has blessed her this day with targets aplenty.
A quick glance back toward the cave entrance reveals that none of the other squad members are in sight, so Butternut reaches down and picks up whatever rock or stick she finds nearby and flings it in the general direction of the rest of Wyvern Squad. "Hopefully that will get their attention." Aware that she cannot take on a group of hobgoblins by herself, she casts Sleep, hoping to thin their ranks a bit. The nearest one that's still standing afterward will receive the gift of a crossbow bolt.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar -
Getting ready to head out, Crandell is suddenly shot down gruesomely. As realization sets in, the priestess shouts to the rest of the group to head for the trees. As she starts to move, more arrows rain down around them. Erisci’s roan is nicked by an arrow in the rump. It whinnies in pain and rears up, but the wound is minimal and the priestess urges her mount to the trees. Other mounts are not so lucky and she hears the shrieks of pain that the other horses emit as the arrows wound them.
Once at the treeline, Erisciana turns to make sure everyone makes it to cover. Vernar’s horse has been shot out from under him, but he quickly scrambles to the trees, even helping Sann along as goes. She sees Gerett and Kendell moves to the rocks on the other side of the road. The rest rush into the woods.
Erisci rides her horse slightly into the woods and then quickly slides from the saddle. Taking a moment to tie off her mount on a nearby tree far enough from the edge of the trees, she then addresses the group. Butternut and Vernar have moved further into the woods. Vardra and Kaylessa take up positions to fire on the enemy archers.
“Sorvani! Take up a firing position further along and prepare to give us covering fire! Vernar!” She shouts, not seeing the dwarf, but confident he will hear her commands. “Take Ren and Butternut and see if you can find a route for us to flank the enemy archers down below. Kaylessa! Follow Vernar and take up a position to cover them! Flare! Fill in Kaylessa’s position. If you see a target, take it, but don’t waste ammunition.”
(Vernar’s player and I actually discussed the above tactic before the most recent post.)
Once the scouts move out, Erisci will address the rest of the group. “We’re going to move into the gully below. We’ll have cover there and be in closer range for our archers. Vernar might be able to find us an attack route. Lucyus, get Kendall and Gerett ready to move. You’ll be leading us down to the gulley below us along the road. Archers, coordinate your shots to fire on the enemy as we move out. We don’t have far to move. Each archer can then move down one at a time.”
“Once in place, take cover and archers can have opportunity to return some fire on the enemy below. The hard sides of the gulley will give us more protection than the trees. If they mean to attack us, we’ll still have the defensive position and higher ground. If their goal is to simply blockade us here to let their supply caravan move by, then we’ll be in a better position to counter-attack.”
The priestess will make sure everyone is ready to move out together, nod to the paladin, signal the archers to fire and yells, “Move!”
Getting ready to head out, Crandell is suddenly shot down gruesomely. As realization sets in, the priestess shouts to the rest of the group to head for the trees. As she starts to move, more arrows rain down around them. Erisci’s roan is nicked by an arrow in the rump. It whinnies in pain and rears up, but the wound is minimal and the priestess urges her mount to the trees. Other mounts are not so lucky and she hears the shrieks of pain that the other horses emit as the arrows wound them.
Once at the treeline, Erisciana turns to make sure everyone makes it to cover. Vernar’s horse has been shot out from under him, but he quickly scrambles to the trees, even helping Sann along as goes. She sees Gerett and Kendell moves to the rocks on the other side of the road. The rest rush into the woods.
Erisci rides her horse slightly into the woods and then quickly slides from the saddle. Taking a moment to tie off her mount on a nearby tree far enough from the edge of the trees, she then addresses the group. Butternut and Vernar have moved further into the woods. Vardra and Kaylessa take up positions to fire on the enemy archers.
“Sorvani! Take up a firing position further along and prepare to give us covering fire! Vernar!” She shouts, not seeing the dwarf, but confident he will hear her commands. “Take Ren and Butternut and see if you can find a route for us to flank the enemy archers down below. Kaylessa! Follow Vernar and take up a position to cover them! Flare! Fill in Kaylessa’s position. If you see a target, take it, but don’t waste ammunition.”
(Vernar’s player and I actually discussed the above tactic before the most recent post.)
Once the scouts move out, Erisci will address the rest of the group. “We’re going to move into the gully below. We’ll have cover there and be in closer range for our archers. Vernar might be able to find us an attack route. Lucyus, get Kendall and Gerett ready to move. You’ll be leading us down to the gulley below us along the road. Archers, coordinate your shots to fire on the enemy as we move out. We don’t have far to move. Each archer can then move down one at a time.”
“Once in place, take cover and archers can have opportunity to return some fire on the enemy below. The hard sides of the gulley will give us more protection than the trees. If they mean to attack us, we’ll still have the defensive position and higher ground. If their goal is to simply blockade us here to let their supply caravan move by, then we’ll be in a better position to counter-attack.”
The priestess will make sure everyone is ready to move out together, nod to the paladin, signal the archers to fire and yells, “Move!”
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
GM Note:
Just wanted to give everyone a heads up that I've started to consolidate the maps for this game in one area.
Here is the link to the index page
I've added a few things to the large area map for the base of Eagle's Nest. I've defined the gully better and added arrows showing the direction where the ground slopes up.
Just wanted to give everyone a heads up that I've started to consolidate the maps for this game in one area.
Here is the link to the index page
I've added a few things to the large area map for the base of Eagle's Nest. I've defined the gully better and added arrows showing the direction where the ground slopes up.
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Kaylessa
The whistling of arrows can be heard, as Kaylessa kicks her mount into motion. Moving her mount to the trees, she quickly dismounts as the whines of horses in pain causes her to look back. As she does so she sees Vernar, climb from the horses corpse. For several moments, she watches as the arrows streak in find their horses as they scramble to safety.
Taking up behind a tree, Kaylessa knocks an arrow draws and looses when she finds a target. Much to her dismay, the arrow falls short, causing an elfin curse to come forth from her mouth!
“They are out of range of my bow.” Kaylessa says, “And charging Is out of the question.” She realizes knowing that the archers would cut them down before they got halfway down the mountain.
The whistling of arrows can be heard, as Kaylessa kicks her mount into motion. Moving her mount to the trees, she quickly dismounts as the whines of horses in pain causes her to look back. As she does so she sees Vernar, climb from the horses corpse. For several moments, she watches as the arrows streak in find their horses as they scramble to safety.
Taking up behind a tree, Kaylessa knocks an arrow draws and looses when she finds a target. Much to her dismay, the arrow falls short, causing an elfin curse to come forth from her mouth!
“They are out of range of my bow.” Kaylessa says, “And charging Is out of the question.” She realizes knowing that the archers would cut them down before they got halfway down the mountain.
Hearing her name, her ears perk up. “It will be as you say!” she calls out as her feet carry her to follow the dwarf. She will move quietly as she finds a place to defend the others.“Sorvani! Take up a firing position further along and prepare to give us covering fire! Vernar!” She shouts, not seeing the dwarf, but confident he will hear her commands. “Take Ren and Butternut and see if you can find a route for us to flank the enemy archers down below. Kaylessa! Follow Vernar and take up a position to cover them! Flare! Fill in Kaylessa’s position. If you see a target, take it, but don’t waste ammunition.”
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Vardra Marcus, PFC:
When the arrows begin to fly, Vardra does his best to defend his less-armored companions. They all reach safety with little more than scratches, though he cannot say the same for the mounts. Vernar's pony collapses under him, death coming swiftly for the equine, Ren's is also badly injured, and his own mount Forelock is only better by degrees.
Once safely into the trees, Vardra dismounts and picks a spot behind a large stump that looks like the remains of a lightning-blasted tree. Looking downrange, he finds no targets in the open, but selects a suspicious clump of greenery at the edge of the woods and fires. The arrow climbs high into the sky before falling generally into his intended locale; unfortunately, there is no way of knowing if he hit anything other than plants.
As he scans the distance looking for a target, a sound to his left catches his attention. Whipping his head around, Vardra sees a broken hunk of tree branch land in a bush not half a dozen yards away. Startled by the strange occurrence, it takes him a moment to make sense of it.
"Something strange is happening on our left flank, and I'm going to check it out," Vardra says to whomever is nearby as he scuttles off in that direction. He moves warily, expecting trouble, and switches to sword and shield as he goes.
Vardra nods in agreement with the dwarf's initial comment. "Makes sense to me, Gerett."Gerett wrote:"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'."
When the arrows begin to fly, Vardra does his best to defend his less-armored companions. They all reach safety with little more than scratches, though he cannot say the same for the mounts. Vernar's pony collapses under him, death coming swiftly for the equine, Ren's is also badly injured, and his own mount Forelock is only better by degrees.
Once safely into the trees, Vardra dismounts and picks a spot behind a large stump that looks like the remains of a lightning-blasted tree. Looking downrange, he finds no targets in the open, but selects a suspicious clump of greenery at the edge of the woods and fires. The arrow climbs high into the sky before falling generally into his intended locale; unfortunately, there is no way of knowing if he hit anything other than plants.
As he scans the distance looking for a target, a sound to his left catches his attention. Whipping his head around, Vardra sees a broken hunk of tree branch land in a bush not half a dozen yards away. Startled by the strange occurrence, it takes him a moment to make sense of it.
"Something strange is happening on our left flank, and I'm going to check it out," Vardra says to whomever is nearby as he scuttles off in that direction. He moves warily, expecting trouble, and switches to sword and shield as he goes.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
GM Notes:
Another heads up that I updated/upgraded the large Eagle's Nest outside area map. This one has squares on it for a better sense of scale. I was also re-reading some of the earlier posts and discovered that I referred to the road coming up as being only wide enough to be ridden single file. So I fixed the road and fleshed out a few things better. The link can be found in the GM's Notes above this one.
Another heads up that I updated/upgraded the large Eagle's Nest outside area map. This one has squares on it for a better sense of scale. I was also re-reading some of the earlier posts and discovered that I referred to the road coming up as being only wide enough to be ridden single file. So I fixed the road and fleshed out a few things better. The link can be found in the GM's Notes above this one.
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Lucyus
Kicking his mount, He feels Wimzy grip tighten as the horse surges forward. As arrows continues to whiz in from the sky. As he reaches the treeline and increased safety, he urges Wimzy to get down and move to safety, he looks back as he hears several of the horses whine in pain. He calls out to the others to move forward as he watches Vernar stumble to the ground and get up running.
As the others come running through, Lucyus tries to get eyes on each of his companions. Sadly Butternut is not within view.
Once there he will ask if either are injuried, then relay what they will be doing. When Ersciana gives the signal he will move the fighters as directed.
“Then change your fate!” he calls a back the sound muffled by his helm, a quick grin upon his face."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.
Kicking his mount, He feels Wimzy grip tighten as the horse surges forward. As arrows continues to whiz in from the sky. As he reaches the treeline and increased safety, he urges Wimzy to get down and move to safety, he looks back as he hears several of the horses whine in pain. He calls out to the others to move forward as he watches Vernar stumble to the ground and get up running.
As the others come running through, Lucyus tries to get eyes on each of his companions. Sadly Butternut is not within view.
Lucyus will take up his shield and spear, securing his axe upon his back. He will chance a look out and see where Kendell and Gerrett are and make way to them, his shield up on the side the archers are firing from.Once the scouts move out, Erisci will address the rest of the group. “We’re going to move into the gully below. We’ll have cover there and be in closer range for our archers. Vernar might be able to find us an attack route. Lucyus, get Kendall and Gerett ready to move. You’ll be leading us down to the gulley below us along the road. Archers, coordinate your shots to fire on the enemy as we move out. We don’t have far to move. Each archer can then move down one at a time.”
“Once in place, take cover and archers can have opportunity to return some fire on the enemy below. The hard sides of the gulley will give us more protection than the trees. If they mean to attack us, we’ll still have the defensive position and higher ground. If their goal is to simply blockade us here to let their supply caravan move by, then we’ll be in a better position to counter-attack.”
Once there he will ask if either are injuried, then relay what they will be doing. When Ersciana gives the signal he will move the fighters as directed.
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Vernar -
Vernar is focused on getting Sann off in the proper direction when suddenly the earth comes up fast to meet him. "Oof!" he sputters as his horse dies from distant, accurate arrow fire. Picking the worst of the dirt and leaves out of his mouth and beard, Vernar makes his way into the thicker tree line. "Good thing I be the right height," he mutters as he steps into the shadows, arrows sailing around him.
Vernar is focused on getting Sann off in the proper direction when suddenly the earth comes up fast to meet him. "Oof!" he sputters as his horse dies from distant, accurate arrow fire. Picking the worst of the dirt and leaves out of his mouth and beard, Vernar makes his way into the thicker tree line. "Good thing I be the right height," he mutters as he steps into the shadows, arrows sailing around him.
Vernar does not respond, but instead looks for Ren and Butternut. He tries getting his bearings to remember where they had chased the half orc earlier and try to figure out the best way to close the distance between the enemy and them. He's not entirely sure where Butternut got off to, but he hears Vardra responding to something peculiar. Stepping out of the shadows and motioning to get Ren and Kaylessa's attention, he begins moving silently towards the direction Vardra is heading.“Sorvani! Take up a firing position further along and prepare to give us covering fire! Vernar!” She shouts, not seeing the dwarf, but confident he will hear her commands. “Take Ren and Butternut and see if you can find a route for us to flank the enemy archers down below. Kaylessa! Follow Vernar and take up a position to cover them! Flare! Fill in Kaylessa’s position. If you see a target, take it, but don’t waste ammunition.”
"Here I go again on my own..." ~the Bard Whitesnake
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Post Continued:
A new enemy force has appeared! A volley of arrows was fired from further down the hill and one very lucky shot took out Sergeant Crandell. Everyone else scatters for the safety while the horses take damage.
Butternut moves deeper into the forest and to the edge of the stream. There she notes movement further to her left and spots three hobgoblins! A rope is secured at this location suggesting that they climbed up from the drop off in this area. Two of the goblinoids are looking down, further suggesting that more of their kind is on the way. One keeps watch.
Butternut, not seeing anyone else around, but hearing them, makes a little noise to attract attention. Vardra notices the noise while Ren, Vernar and Kaylessa also move in that direction. Butternut casts Sleep on the trio of hobgoblins and two of them fall to the ground!
The remaining hobgoblin looks around in surprise! He draws his sword and dagger while looking for a target. Kaylessa takes aim and drills two arrows into the hobgoblin's chest, but it does not take him down! Vardra adds two more arrows, but only one hits. The hobgoblin still stands and has three arrows sticking out of him!
Ren throws a pair of daggers and they hit the target! The hobgoblin's drops his weapons and stumbles backwards, close to death. The last thing anyone sees is the goblinoid falling backwards and is quickly lost from sight as he plummets off the edge.
Nothing else is moving over in that area. There are two hobgoblin's sleeping on the ground and you can see the rope tied to the tree is still taunt and moving slightly.
Back with the main group, Erisciana's barks out orders that some follow. Lucyus moves back across the road, his shield protecting him, so that he can reach Gerett and Kendell. The two warriors are unharmed and shielded by the side of the mountain.
Those keeping watch down below now spot movement! The movement is where the road enters into the woods below. A figure runs out carrying a huge body shield. The shield is so large that it covers whatever is holding it obscuring it from sight. The figure runs up and stops where the road meets the slope and holds there.
Behind him, a second figure dashes forward, hidden behind is own body shield. The second figure goes just past the first and then he too stops, drops his shield to the ground next to the first. More figures emerge and they do the same thing as each one adds to the growing wall of shields forming down below.
Seeing this, Flare and Sorvani fire their arrows, but the missile are turned aside by the body shields. While this maneuver is going on, the number of arrows being fired has dropped dramatically. None of these fired arrows hits anyone.
A new enemy force has appeared! A volley of arrows was fired from further down the hill and one very lucky shot took out Sergeant Crandell. Everyone else scatters for the safety while the horses take damage.
Butternut moves deeper into the forest and to the edge of the stream. There she notes movement further to her left and spots three hobgoblins! A rope is secured at this location suggesting that they climbed up from the drop off in this area. Two of the goblinoids are looking down, further suggesting that more of their kind is on the way. One keeps watch.
Butternut, not seeing anyone else around, but hearing them, makes a little noise to attract attention. Vardra notices the noise while Ren, Vernar and Kaylessa also move in that direction. Butternut casts Sleep on the trio of hobgoblins and two of them fall to the ground!
The remaining hobgoblin looks around in surprise! He draws his sword and dagger while looking for a target. Kaylessa takes aim and drills two arrows into the hobgoblin's chest, but it does not take him down! Vardra adds two more arrows, but only one hits. The hobgoblin still stands and has three arrows sticking out of him!
Ren throws a pair of daggers and they hit the target! The hobgoblin's drops his weapons and stumbles backwards, close to death. The last thing anyone sees is the goblinoid falling backwards and is quickly lost from sight as he plummets off the edge.
Nothing else is moving over in that area. There are two hobgoblin's sleeping on the ground and you can see the rope tied to the tree is still taunt and moving slightly.
Back with the main group, Erisciana's barks out orders that some follow. Lucyus moves back across the road, his shield protecting him, so that he can reach Gerett and Kendell. The two warriors are unharmed and shielded by the side of the mountain.
Those keeping watch down below now spot movement! The movement is where the road enters into the woods below. A figure runs out carrying a huge body shield. The shield is so large that it covers whatever is holding it obscuring it from sight. The figure runs up and stops where the road meets the slope and holds there.
Behind him, a second figure dashes forward, hidden behind is own body shield. The second figure goes just past the first and then he too stops, drops his shield to the ground next to the first. More figures emerge and they do the same thing as each one adds to the growing wall of shields forming down below.
Seeing this, Flare and Sorvani fire their arrows, but the missile are turned aside by the body shields. While this maneuver is going on, the number of arrows being fired has dropped dramatically. None of these fired arrows hits anyone.
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
GM Notes:
Hit Points:
Sorvani – 14 of 15
Here is the combat map for the immediate area.
The initials are the party members as before. In the case where those whose name start with the same letter, the second letter is included. HG is the location of the sleeping hobgoblin's.
The rest of the attacking force is much further down the hill. They are using body shields to protect themselves as they advance forward. Such shields do limit the effectiveness of archery. There are about ten such shields in place by now and presumably more to come.
Now what?
Hit Points:
Sorvani – 14 of 15
Here is the combat map for the immediate area.
- graystone031.jpg (152.8 KiB) Viewed 8647 times
The rest of the attacking force is much further down the hill. They are using body shields to protect themselves as they advance forward. Such shields do limit the effectiveness of archery. There are about ten such shields in place by now and presumably more to come.
Now what?
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar -
The priestess starts to direct operations once the group gets to safety of cover and concealment. With the range to the enemy too far for their archers, the group is relatively safe as well, except for the sheer volume of random arrows from their enemy.
Vernar is taking charge of the scouts and looking for an alternate route down to the enemy. She does not see him slip away to find Butternut, who had gone deeper into the trees apparently. But Ren responds and moves off and Kaylessa heads in that direction as well, towards the stream. Flare meanwhile, moves in to take the elf's position on the treeline.
Lucyus makes a break across the road over to where Kendall and Gerett scrambled. The priestess moves over closer to the road, but still in the trees, when Sorvani and Flare get her attention and point down below. Erisci crouches low against a large tree and looks out over the approach to their position. She sees a pavise set up and another figure moving up a second one next to it. One by one they erect a shield wall.
Erisci furrows her brow a bit, not sure what they are getting at. The road is only 10 feet wide and moving out from the forest to the slope doesn't give them much less range. If the enemy are planning to advance on their position, then that makes things a little easier. "If they get closer then we are also closer, without having to advance as much down the road." She will turn to the others behind. "Keep low and behind cover for now. I want to see their plan start to develop and we need to give Vernar and the others time to scout."
Moving back over to the road side of the trees, and positioning a large trunk between herself and the enemy she will get the fighters attention over there. She will make a motion sliding her hand across her neck quickly and then placing her palms outward will push towards them rapidly twice, trying to convey that they are to stay there for now.
Finally moving back to the middle group, she will ask who might have oil with them. Some flaming arrows into the tower shields might deter them a bit.
The priestess starts to direct operations once the group gets to safety of cover and concealment. With the range to the enemy too far for their archers, the group is relatively safe as well, except for the sheer volume of random arrows from their enemy.
Vernar is taking charge of the scouts and looking for an alternate route down to the enemy. She does not see him slip away to find Butternut, who had gone deeper into the trees apparently. But Ren responds and moves off and Kaylessa heads in that direction as well, towards the stream. Flare meanwhile, moves in to take the elf's position on the treeline.
Lucyus makes a break across the road over to where Kendall and Gerett scrambled. The priestess moves over closer to the road, but still in the trees, when Sorvani and Flare get her attention and point down below. Erisci crouches low against a large tree and looks out over the approach to their position. She sees a pavise set up and another figure moving up a second one next to it. One by one they erect a shield wall.
Erisci furrows her brow a bit, not sure what they are getting at. The road is only 10 feet wide and moving out from the forest to the slope doesn't give them much less range. If the enemy are planning to advance on their position, then that makes things a little easier. "If they get closer then we are also closer, without having to advance as much down the road." She will turn to the others behind. "Keep low and behind cover for now. I want to see their plan start to develop and we need to give Vernar and the others time to scout."
Moving back over to the road side of the trees, and positioning a large trunk between herself and the enemy she will get the fighters attention over there. She will make a motion sliding her hand across her neck quickly and then placing her palms outward will push towards them rapidly twice, trying to convey that they are to stay there for now.
Finally moving back to the middle group, she will ask who might have oil with them. Some flaming arrows into the tower shields might deter them a bit.
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Kaylessa
Nothing else is moving over in that area. There are two hobgoblin's sleeping on the ground and you can see the rope tied to the tree is still taunt and moving slightly.
Moving alongside Vernar, “Wish me to enlighten Erisciana to our situation?” she asks as she sees the rope moving slightly. “We will have more company it seems.” Knocking another arrow to her bow.
Kaylessa knock and arrow to her bow takes aim and looses and repeats the action as her first arrow strikes the hobgoblin in the chest the second follows suit and slams home amongst the creature’s chest yet still it stands. Several other add their weapons to the mix and the Hobgoblin falls from sight.The remaining hobgoblin looks around in surprise! He draws his sword and dagger while looking for a target. Kaylessa takes aim and drills two arrows into the hobgoblin's chest, but it does not take him down! Vardra adds two more arrows, but only one hits. The hobgoblin still stands and has three arrows sticking out of him!
Nothing else is moving over in that area. There are two hobgoblin's sleeping on the ground and you can see the rope tied to the tree is still taunt and moving slightly.
Moving alongside Vernar, “Wish me to enlighten Erisciana to our situation?” she asks as she sees the rope moving slightly. “We will have more company it seems.” Knocking another arrow to her bow.
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Lucyus
Back with the main group, Erisciana's barks out orders that some follow. Lucyus moves back across the road, his shield protecting him, so that he can reach Gerett and Kendell. The two warriors are unharmed and shielded by the side of the mountain.
Lucyus brings his shield up and runs as fast as he is able zigging and zagging as he goes. He pulls up and several stones are dislodged as he pulls up to a stop. “Are either of you hurt?” he asks curiously as he catches his breath and pokes his head out to look down below then back to Erisciana’s position.
Back with the main group, Erisciana's barks out orders that some follow. Lucyus moves back across the road, his shield protecting him, so that he can reach Gerett and Kendell. The two warriors are unharmed and shielded by the side of the mountain.
Lucyus brings his shield up and runs as fast as he is able zigging and zagging as he goes. He pulls up and several stones are dislodged as he pulls up to a stop. “Are either of you hurt?” he asks curiously as he catches his breath and pokes his head out to look down below then back to Erisciana’s position.
Lucyus squints in Erisician’s direction as he sees her move about. “Kill but hold.” He guesses, she is saying. “Looks like we are holding our position.Moving back over to the road side of the trees, and positioning a large trunk between herself and the enemy she will get the fighters attention over there. She will make a motion sliding her hand across her neck quickly and then placing her palms outward will push towards them rapidly twice, trying to convey that they are to stay there for now.
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Butternut:
After flinging a broken branch back toward the rest of the squad, Butternut returns her attention to the hobgoblins. Figuring that it may be the best way to "thin the herd" as it were, she casts Sleep. Two of the hobs go down, leaving just the one that was on watch, who suddenly becomes alert.
Surprisingly, two arrows sprout from his chest. Butternut looks to her left and sees that Kaylessa was the source. Unlike the elf, the big soldier comes blundering through the woods and fires, missing with one shot, but the other connects. From even further to the left, a couple of daggers sail through the air and also strike the hobgoblin. Bleeding from multiple wounds, he staggers and falls over the edge of the embankment.
Switching from the enchanted crossbow to her shortsword and dagger, Butternut glides quietly forward. As she advances, she watches carefully for any new hobs to peek over the edge.
After flinging a broken branch back toward the rest of the squad, Butternut returns her attention to the hobgoblins. Figuring that it may be the best way to "thin the herd" as it were, she casts Sleep. Two of the hobs go down, leaving just the one that was on watch, who suddenly becomes alert.
Surprisingly, two arrows sprout from his chest. Butternut looks to her left and sees that Kaylessa was the source. Unlike the elf, the big soldier comes blundering through the woods and fires, missing with one shot, but the other connects. From even further to the left, a couple of daggers sail through the air and also strike the hobgoblin. Bleeding from multiple wounds, he staggers and falls over the edge of the embankment.
Kaylessa's actions alert Butternut to Vernar's presence, as she had not noted his arrival. Sneaky old dwarf, that one. "Those spells won't last long, I'm going to slit their necks. Ren, can you cut the rope?"Kaylessa wrote:Moving alongside Vernar, “Wish me to enlighten Erisciana to our situation?” she asks as she sees the rope moving slightly. “We will have more company it seems.” Knocking another arrow to her bow.
Switching from the enchanted crossbow to her shortsword and dagger, Butternut glides quietly forward. As she advances, she watches carefully for any new hobs to peek over the edge.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Vernar -
Vernar arrives with the others after following Vardra. Hobgoblins? he thinks, not entirely sure but they do seem to match some stories he had heard. The one still awake goes tumbling over the edge, no doubt alerting anyone below that something is not right.
Vernar raises a hand for Ren to hold off for a moment before cutting the rope. He will move up to the edge a short distance to one side of the rope and, unless something else climbs up, he will cautiously peek over, hopefully only revealing his eyes and the top of his cloak if anyone is below looking up. This might be a way down that the group can use, but Vernar is expecting more than just a trio of goblinoids are planning to come up this way.
Vernar arrives with the others after following Vardra. Hobgoblins? he thinks, not entirely sure but they do seem to match some stories he had heard. The one still awake goes tumbling over the edge, no doubt alerting anyone below that something is not right.
"Yes, but be quick," Vernar replies. He has no doubt that the elf herself is quick, but he is more concerned about Erisciana giving some long-winded commands. "There might be more 'bout an' we can use yer bow."Moving alongside Vernar, “Wish me to enlighten Erisciana to our situation?” she asks as she sees the rope moving slightly. “We will have more company it seems.” Knocking another arrow to her bow.
Hearing Butternut giving some direction, Vernar retorts with a sly grin, "But what if more o' yer new friends be below?"Kaylessa's actions alert Butternut to Vernar's presence, as she had not noted his arrival. Sneaky old dwarf, that one. "Those spells won't last long, I'm going to slit their necks. Ren, can you cut the rope?"
Vernar raises a hand for Ren to hold off for a moment before cutting the rope. He will move up to the edge a short distance to one side of the rope and, unless something else climbs up, he will cautiously peek over, hopefully only revealing his eyes and the top of his cloak if anyone is below looking up. This might be a way down that the group can use, but Vernar is expecting more than just a trio of goblinoids are planning to come up this way.
"Here I go again on my own..." ~the Bard Whitesnake
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Vardra Marcus, PFC:
Vardra jogs in the direction from which he thinks the flying branch came. Several others do the same, though he's not sure if that is because of the warning he gave, or because they noticed the branch as well. Not that it matters; what matters is figuring out what is going on.
Reaching the stream, they find Butternut, along with a trio of some type of large goblinoids. Two are lying down as though dead, although one is snoring a bit and he can see that the other is still breathing. The third appears alarmed and looks warily in their direction. Kaylessa is faster than he is and shoots first, putting two arrows into the creature. Vardra also fires twice, though one shot misses. A couple of daggers thrown by Ren finish the job as the goblinoid staggers and falls over the edge of the precipice.
Kaylessa volunteers to go update Erisiana, which Vernar approves, telling her to be quick.
Vernar question's Butternut's plan, then proceeds to move forward himself.
Vardra jogs in the direction from which he thinks the flying branch came. Several others do the same, though he's not sure if that is because of the warning he gave, or because they noticed the branch as well. Not that it matters; what matters is figuring out what is going on.
Reaching the stream, they find Butternut, along with a trio of some type of large goblinoids. Two are lying down as though dead, although one is snoring a bit and he can see that the other is still breathing. The third appears alarmed and looks warily in their direction. Kaylessa is faster than he is and shoots first, putting two arrows into the creature. Vardra also fires twice, though one shot misses. A couple of daggers thrown by Ren finish the job as the goblinoid staggers and falls over the edge of the precipice.
Kaylessa volunteers to go update Erisiana, which Vernar approves, telling her to be quick.
Vardra nods in acknowledgement of the halfling's proposal. "I'll cover you." He hopes that the elf will return in time to help him provide covering fire if needed.Butternut wrote:"Those spells won't last long, I'm going to slit their necks. Ren, can you cut the rope?"
Vernar question's Butternut's plan, then proceeds to move forward himself.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Kaylessa
Moving quickly and somewhat quietly she will move through the trees and find the dark haired priestess. Once found she will say, “We have contact on ridge. Several large goblins climbed up from below, two were asleep when I arrived the other took 3 arrows and a few daggers to fell. It would seem that they wish to catch us unaware.
“I will return shortly.” She says in reply. “Elves are not known to be slow.” She says with a wink the retreats toward where Erisciana was last."Yes, but be quick," Vernar replies. He has no doubt that the elf herself is quick, but he is more concerned about Erisciana giving some long-winded commands. "There might be more 'bout an' we can use yer bow."
Moving quickly and somewhat quietly she will move through the trees and find the dark haired priestess. Once found she will say, “We have contact on ridge. Several large goblins climbed up from below, two were asleep when I arrived the other took 3 arrows and a few daggers to fell. It would seem that they wish to catch us unaware.
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Suddenly the air is filled with the sound of arrows zipping past and the Sergeants head explodes with blood and meaty chunks. Laurel is startled and looks about helplessly. Suddenly the warrior priestess in blue shouts out orders, ripping Laurel from her daze.
Laurel whips her horse about and follows Erisciana up the hill. From over her shoulder she hears Gerett mumble,Erisciana wrote:"Take cover! Head to the trees!"
Gerett wrote: "Guess we're the anvil"
Laurel is grateful for Lucyus's positive response despite the desperate situation and leans low over the horses neck to make herself a smaller target. Once at the top of the hill Laurel takes stock of the situation. Surprisingly her horse is only minorly injured compared to many of the other animals. She attributes this to the spell of protection that Butternut had cast on her earlier and is exceedingly grateful to the halfling for compensating for her less than exemplary horsemanship skills. Erisciana shouts out further orders,Lucyus wrote: “Then change your fate!"
Laurel tries her best to follow the orders, not entirely sure where she fits in or what her role is. She finds herself with Whimzy and Sann a small distance from the groups, able to easily see the fighters and command but not able to see the scouts as well. Erisciana continues giving orders:Erisciana wrote:“We’re going to move into the gully below. We’ll have cover there and be in closer range for our archers. Vernar might be able to find us an attack route. Lucyus, get Kendall and Gerett ready to move. You’ll be leading us down to the gulley below us along the road. Archers, coordinate your shots to fire on the enemy as we move out. We don’t have far to move. Each archer can then move down one at a time. Once in place, take cover and archers can have opportunity to return some fire on the enemy below. The hard sides of the gulley will give us more protection than the trees. If they mean to attack us, we’ll still have the defensive position and higher ground. If their goal is to simply blockade us here to let their supply caravan move by, then we’ll be in a better position to counter-attack. Move!”
When Erisciana asks if anybody has oil Laurel will say that she does. Her horse is well laden with a few extra rations, bandages, a canteen, oil, rope, a lumber ax and an extra quiver each of arrows and bolts. She'll dismount and rifle through the supplies to find the requested oil. Kaylessa approaches Erisciana with an update from the front lines,Erisciana wrote: "If they get closer then we are also closer, without having to advance as much down the road. Keep low and behind cover for now. I want to see their plan start to develop and we need to give Vernar and the others time to scout."
As Kaylessa turns to leave Laurel comes to a snap decision. Quickly she'll jog up to Erisciana and say, "I can do more good with the scouting party than back here. I know how to stay out of the way and I haven't used any of my spells."Kaylessa wrote:“We have contact on ridge. Several large goblins climbed up from below, two were asleep when I arrived the other took 3 arrows and a few daggers to fell. It would seem that they wish to catch us unaware."
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar -
The scouts have moved off into the trees further and Lucyus joined Kendall and Gerett near the high, steep rocks on the other side of the road. They were going to move into the gully, but with the enemy bringing tower shields to advance up the path, the heroes needn't be so hasty to shorten the range if the enemy was going to do it for them. Erisci moved to cover on the edge of the treeline and motioned to Lucyus to hold there.
Lucyus squints in Erisician’s direction as he sees her move about. The paladin looks a little unsure, but they hold their ground, which was the desired effect. Moving back to the group, the priestess asks if anyone has some oil with them. She notes some sounds in the direction that the scouts went, but is unable to see through the trees.
When Erisciana asks if anybody has oil Laurel will say that she does. Her horse is well laden with a few extra rations, bandages, a canteen, oil, rope, a lumber ax and an extra quiver each of arrows and bolts. She'll dismount and rifle through the supplies to find the requested oil.
The dark-haired priestess moves alongside Laurel as she looks through her bags on the horse. "Oh this is perfect," she says indicating the bandages. Erisciana will take the quiver of arrows and bolts and set them down. "Sorvani and Sann, we need you to make some simple flaming arrows and crossbow bolts. There are bandages and oil and plenty of arrows and bolts. Wimzy, get Gerett to come over here and have him join Flare in putting some flames on those tower shields." Sorvani has a shortbow so his range is more limited for now.
The situation is quite busy and a rapidly approaching Kaylessa adds to the activity. “We have contact on ridge. Several large goblins climbed up from below, two were asleep when I arrived the other took 3 arrows and a few daggers to fell. It would seem that they wish to catch us unaware."
Butternut must have made first contact, as she was the only other one over there with a Sleep spell. These "large goblins" must be a more formidable foe if it took so many arrows to down one. Erisciana looks to the others in the immediate vicinity and says, "Carry on. I'll be right back." Turning to the elf, she adds, "Lead on. I'll be behind you in a moment." The enemy is far enough away and the skirmish to their left is only a few dozen yards away. The priestess turns back towards the group.
As Kaylessa turns to leave Laurel comes to a snap decision. Quickly she'll jog up to Erisciana and say, "I can do more good with the scouting party than back here. I know how to stay out of the way and I haven't used any of my spells."
A grin forms on the dark-haired priestess face, below the leather and metal facemask she wore. She claps Laurel on the shoulder and they head off after Kaylessa. "Felix and Ishtar must be in sync. I was just about to suggest you join the scouts. They may have need of a healer and you likely can keep pace with the scouts better than Wimzy or I."
It doesn't take them long to catch up to the scouts.
The scouts have moved off into the trees further and Lucyus joined Kendall and Gerett near the high, steep rocks on the other side of the road. They were going to move into the gully, but with the enemy bringing tower shields to advance up the path, the heroes needn't be so hasty to shorten the range if the enemy was going to do it for them. Erisci moved to cover on the edge of the treeline and motioned to Lucyus to hold there.
Lucyus squints in Erisician’s direction as he sees her move about. The paladin looks a little unsure, but they hold their ground, which was the desired effect. Moving back to the group, the priestess asks if anyone has some oil with them. She notes some sounds in the direction that the scouts went, but is unable to see through the trees.
When Erisciana asks if anybody has oil Laurel will say that she does. Her horse is well laden with a few extra rations, bandages, a canteen, oil, rope, a lumber ax and an extra quiver each of arrows and bolts. She'll dismount and rifle through the supplies to find the requested oil.
The dark-haired priestess moves alongside Laurel as she looks through her bags on the horse. "Oh this is perfect," she says indicating the bandages. Erisciana will take the quiver of arrows and bolts and set them down. "Sorvani and Sann, we need you to make some simple flaming arrows and crossbow bolts. There are bandages and oil and plenty of arrows and bolts. Wimzy, get Gerett to come over here and have him join Flare in putting some flames on those tower shields." Sorvani has a shortbow so his range is more limited for now.
The situation is quite busy and a rapidly approaching Kaylessa adds to the activity. “We have contact on ridge. Several large goblins climbed up from below, two were asleep when I arrived the other took 3 arrows and a few daggers to fell. It would seem that they wish to catch us unaware."
Butternut must have made first contact, as she was the only other one over there with a Sleep spell. These "large goblins" must be a more formidable foe if it took so many arrows to down one. Erisciana looks to the others in the immediate vicinity and says, "Carry on. I'll be right back." Turning to the elf, she adds, "Lead on. I'll be behind you in a moment." The enemy is far enough away and the skirmish to their left is only a few dozen yards away. The priestess turns back towards the group.
As Kaylessa turns to leave Laurel comes to a snap decision. Quickly she'll jog up to Erisciana and say, "I can do more good with the scouting party than back here. I know how to stay out of the way and I haven't used any of my spells."
A grin forms on the dark-haired priestess face, below the leather and metal facemask she wore. She claps Laurel on the shoulder and they head off after Kaylessa. "Felix and Ishtar must be in sync. I was just about to suggest you join the scouts. They may have need of a healer and you likely can keep pace with the scouts better than Wimzy or I."
It doesn't take them long to catch up to the scouts.
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Post Continued:
A force of hobgoblin's are advancing on the Eagle's Nest outpost! These large goblinoids are renowned for waging a perpetual war against other races, sometimes even against other hobgoblins! They are highly militaristic, intelligent, organized and aggressive. In short, the ideal foot soldier for Hextor! Unlike goblins and orcs, hobgoblins suffer no hindrance in daylight.
While the main body of hobgoblins starts to emerge from the forest below using body shields to protect their advancement, a smaller force was sent to flank the group from the side. They grappled a rope to one of the trees on the plateau and started to climb up. Three hobgoblins had made it up before they were spotted. Two fell victim to Butternut's sleep spell and the third was pierced by arrows and daggers before he fell off the cliff to the gully below, a twenty five foot drop. However the rope that enemy climbed up is still taunt, suggesting that another is climbing up!
Butternut crosses the stream and moves as quietly as she can to where the sleeping hobgoblins lie. As she gets closer, Butternut notes that the hobgoblins are wearing studded leather armor, suggesting that they are perhaps scouts. They carry longswords, daggers, longbows and arrows.
Just as she reaches the bodies, the head of a hobgoblin climbing up the rope comes into view! The two see each other and the hobgoblin yells something in a language Butternut is unfamiliar with. While the words are unknown, the tone is very clear: alarm!
An arrow shoots up from somewhere down below, but the shoot was fired blindly as Butternut is not that close to the edge of the drop off and it misses by a wide margin. Butternut moves forward and strikes at the climbing hobgoblin with her short sword and dagger. The hobgoblin holds on to the rope with one hand while the other goes for his longsword. The blade is raised up quick enough to deflect Butternut shortsword, but he is unable to block the dagger. With a growl, Butternut drives her dagger deep into the hobgoblins eye! The hobgoblin screams once more and he looses his grip on the rope and plummets out of sight. A sickening thud is heard a moment later as the body hit the ground.
Vernar reaches edge of the drop off just as the hobgoblin does his dive. He quickly glances down and spies a lone hobgoblin firing arrows upwards. The bodies of two other hobgoblin are nearby. Vernar ducks back and easily avoids the arrow sent his way.
The rest of the squads are further back from the edge of the drop off. Flare keeps an eye as the enemy continues to build their shield wall as they advance up the road. The Ranger of Selune holds is arrows for now since the chances of actually hitting an enemy is slim.
Erisciana moves back to where Laurel, Sann and Wimzy have taken shelter. Erisciana called out if anyone had oil and Laurel does. The extra arrows and bolts are to be wrapped in bandages, dipped in oil and then delivered to Flare and Garret so that they can be fired upon the advancing enemy. Sann and Sorvani start to prep the arrows while Wimzy brings Gerett closer.
Kaylessa comes up, from seemingly out of nowhere just as a cry of alarm is heard from further off in the woods. The elf quickly alerts the rest of the group to the situation on the far side. Kaylessa leads the way back with Erisciana in tow. Laurel come rushing up as she thinks she can do more among the scouts. The trio reaches the stream when a horrible scream pierces the air and then just as quickly falls off and ends with a distant thud.
Back at the road, Lucyus and Kendell keep an eye on what is going on down below. The enemy force continues to advance and build its shield wall. They've now reached the first corner and are starting to go around it. Best estimate places the enemy forces at over seventy in number!
A force of hobgoblin's are advancing on the Eagle's Nest outpost! These large goblinoids are renowned for waging a perpetual war against other races, sometimes even against other hobgoblins! They are highly militaristic, intelligent, organized and aggressive. In short, the ideal foot soldier for Hextor! Unlike goblins and orcs, hobgoblins suffer no hindrance in daylight.
While the main body of hobgoblins starts to emerge from the forest below using body shields to protect their advancement, a smaller force was sent to flank the group from the side. They grappled a rope to one of the trees on the plateau and started to climb up. Three hobgoblins had made it up before they were spotted. Two fell victim to Butternut's sleep spell and the third was pierced by arrows and daggers before he fell off the cliff to the gully below, a twenty five foot drop. However the rope that enemy climbed up is still taunt, suggesting that another is climbing up!
Butternut crosses the stream and moves as quietly as she can to where the sleeping hobgoblins lie. As she gets closer, Butternut notes that the hobgoblins are wearing studded leather armor, suggesting that they are perhaps scouts. They carry longswords, daggers, longbows and arrows.
Just as she reaches the bodies, the head of a hobgoblin climbing up the rope comes into view! The two see each other and the hobgoblin yells something in a language Butternut is unfamiliar with. While the words are unknown, the tone is very clear: alarm!
An arrow shoots up from somewhere down below, but the shoot was fired blindly as Butternut is not that close to the edge of the drop off and it misses by a wide margin. Butternut moves forward and strikes at the climbing hobgoblin with her short sword and dagger. The hobgoblin holds on to the rope with one hand while the other goes for his longsword. The blade is raised up quick enough to deflect Butternut shortsword, but he is unable to block the dagger. With a growl, Butternut drives her dagger deep into the hobgoblins eye! The hobgoblin screams once more and he looses his grip on the rope and plummets out of sight. A sickening thud is heard a moment later as the body hit the ground.
Vernar reaches edge of the drop off just as the hobgoblin does his dive. He quickly glances down and spies a lone hobgoblin firing arrows upwards. The bodies of two other hobgoblin are nearby. Vernar ducks back and easily avoids the arrow sent his way.
The rest of the squads are further back from the edge of the drop off. Flare keeps an eye as the enemy continues to build their shield wall as they advance up the road. The Ranger of Selune holds is arrows for now since the chances of actually hitting an enemy is slim.
Erisciana moves back to where Laurel, Sann and Wimzy have taken shelter. Erisciana called out if anyone had oil and Laurel does. The extra arrows and bolts are to be wrapped in bandages, dipped in oil and then delivered to Flare and Garret so that they can be fired upon the advancing enemy. Sann and Sorvani start to prep the arrows while Wimzy brings Gerett closer.
Kaylessa comes up, from seemingly out of nowhere just as a cry of alarm is heard from further off in the woods. The elf quickly alerts the rest of the group to the situation on the far side. Kaylessa leads the way back with Erisciana in tow. Laurel come rushing up as she thinks she can do more among the scouts. The trio reaches the stream when a horrible scream pierces the air and then just as quickly falls off and ends with a distant thud.
Back at the road, Lucyus and Kendell keep an eye on what is going on down below. The enemy force continues to advance and build its shield wall. They've now reached the first corner and are starting to go around it. Best estimate places the enemy forces at over seventy in number!
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
GM Notes:
Hit Points:
Sorvani – 14 of 15
Here is the updated combat map.
The letters are as before. The HG by Butternut, Ren and Vernar are the ones still sleeping. The one down in the gully is the one firing the arrows. The other hobgoblins are still at long range as far as longbows go. They fire a few arrows but none come close to hitting anyone.
Now what?
Hit Points:
Sorvani – 14 of 15
Here is the updated combat map.
- graystone032.jpg (93.2 KiB) Viewed 8567 times
The letters are as before. The HG by Butternut, Ren and Vernar are the ones still sleeping. The one down in the gully is the one firing the arrows. The other hobgoblins are still at long range as far as longbows go. They fire a few arrows but none come close to hitting anyone.
Now what?
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
"How the blazes are they outranging us?" Gerett grumbles aloud. His assessment of the situation was dead wrong--he thought they'd be laying fire as the enemy advanced, but it looked like they were going to have to move forward to do so. Meanwhile, they were getting flanked by climbers and advanced on by a shield wall, and their mounts were wounded...things were not going well. You old fart, have you really gotten this rusty? he thinks to himself.
"I'm fine. My horse got hit. I'm no expert on the beasts but I think it'll be fine; we prolly have ta leave it here though. Just a liability and a bigger target otherwise. I'm ready ta move."
He listens for a moment. "It sounds like they've moved into phase two of their attack. They're not firing as much. Either saving arrows 'cause we got in cover or else trying not ta hit their pavisemen in the back."
It only takes a short time for Erisciana to come up with a more concrete plan. She sends Wimsy to fetch Gerett so he can try to lay fire arrows into the tower shields. He nods and jogs up that way, keeping his head down. He settles into a spot, piling up the prepared fire bolts and lighting a small fire next to his feet. When the order is given, he fires on the closest tower shield.
"I wonder," he says aloud to himself. Out of curiosity, he'll make his second shot one of the enchanted bolts. "Mabbe we get lucky fer once and it's a flaming something or other."
The warrior priestess takes control of the disparate groups and lays out some general tactics, while assigning Gerett to follow Lucyus. Gerett makes eye contact with Lucyus to let him know he copies. Meanwhile, he lets his crossbow fall into its strap and hefts his halberd for travel. Lucyus comes over to reconnoiter. They have managed to find a spot on the mountain shielded from arrow fire, at least, but they'll have to move soon before the enemy takes more ground.Erisci rides her horse slightly into the woods and then quickly slides from the saddle. Taking a moment to tie off her mount on a nearby tree far enough from the edge of the trees, she then addresses the group.
"I'm fine. My horse got hit. I'm no expert on the beasts but I think it'll be fine; we prolly have ta leave it here though. Just a liability and a bigger target otherwise. I'm ready ta move."
He listens for a moment. "It sounds like they've moved into phase two of their attack. They're not firing as much. Either saving arrows 'cause we got in cover or else trying not ta hit their pavisemen in the back."
Gerett nods. "Fine by me. I feel like we can't see a blasted thing down here. We might need ta' wait until their plan begins ta' take shape before we can do much more than that. I don't like letting their plan play out, but I really don't like moving forward into it. And mebbe they'll find us a harder target than they are thinkin'."Lucyus wrote:Lucyus squints in Erisician’s direction as he sees her move about. “Kill but hold.” He guesses, she is saying. “Looks like we are holding our position.
It only takes a short time for Erisciana to come up with a more concrete plan. She sends Wimsy to fetch Gerett so he can try to lay fire arrows into the tower shields. He nods and jogs up that way, keeping his head down. He settles into a spot, piling up the prepared fire bolts and lighting a small fire next to his feet. When the order is given, he fires on the closest tower shield.
"I wonder," he says aloud to himself. Out of curiosity, he'll make his second shot one of the enchanted bolts. "Mabbe we get lucky fer once and it's a flaming something or other."
-Michael
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Kaylessa
Kaylessa will lead the other women through the forest to where Vernar and the others are. “I brought a few reinforcements.” She says to the dwarf.
“Seems they found another Hobgoblin.”She says wryly to the priestesses.Kaylessa comes up, from seemingly out of nowhere just as a cry of alarm is heard from further off in the woods. The elf quickly alerts the rest of the group to the situation on the far side. Kaylessa leads the way back with Erisciana in tow. Laurel come rushing up as she thinks she can do more among the scouts. The trio reaches the stream when a horrible scream pierces the air and then just as quickly falls off and ends with a distant thud.
Kaylessa will lead the other women through the forest to where Vernar and the others are. “I brought a few reinforcements.” She says to the dwarf.
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Lucyus
“May your arrows fly true.” The paladin says to the dwarf as he departs.
Lucyus will hold action.
“That is good to hear. We will see to the horses if we survive this battle.” He says to the dwarf. Poking his head out for a moment. He can see the body shields forming up below."I'm fine. My horse got hit. I'm no expert on the beasts but I think it'll be fine; we prolly have ta leave it here though. Just a liability and a bigger target otherwise. I'm ready ta move."
“I guess they do not see the value in continuing the volley.”He listens for a moment. "It sounds like they've moved into phase two of their attack. They're not firing as much. Either saving arrows 'cause we got in cover or else trying not ta hit their pavisemen in the back."
“Nor me. Rock wall or a Shield wall the choices are not ideal. I wish we had time to make spears or large poles. We do have the barrel of torches… shame we could not rain torches upon them, draw their lines out.”Gerett nods. "Fine by me. I feel like we can't see a blasted thing down here. We might need ta' wait until their plan begins ta' take shape before we can do much more than that. I don't like letting their plan play out, but I really don't like moving forward into it. And mebbe they'll find us a harder target than they are thinkin'."
“May your arrows fly true.” The paladin says to the dwarf as he departs.
Lucyus will hold action.
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Butternut:
Vardra promises to cover them, and the halfling acknowledges with a nod. "Good."
Vernar waves Ren off for the moment, which causes Butternut to shrug. Since he didn't actually tell her not to do what she planned, she follows him toward the ledge. Just as they arrive, another hobgoblin pokes his head up over the edge. Butternut strikes out immediately; the hobgob shouts a warning and blocks her short sword, but her dagger plunges into his eye and through into the brain. Its grip released, the body falls backward into the gully.
There appears to be one more hobgoblins down below, but that isn't her immediate concern. Butternut turns to the task of ending the sleeping hobgoblins. Bending over the nearest one, she places her sword and knife on either side of its neck in an X-shape, then slices hard across with both blades.
Once she's sure the hobgoblin is dead, she looks up in time to see Kaylessa return with Erisciana and Laurel. "Welcome back. You missed most of the fun. I think there's one left, if you want to help feather it."
Vardra promises to cover them, and the halfling acknowledges with a nod. "Good."
"Then I greet them the same way," Butternut replies with a fierce grin. "And I still have a Sleep spell, if necessary."Vernar wrote:Hearing Butternut giving some direction, Vernar retorts with a sly grin, "But what if more o' yer new friends be below?"
Vernar waves Ren off for the moment, which causes Butternut to shrug. Since he didn't actually tell her not to do what she planned, she follows him toward the ledge. Just as they arrive, another hobgoblin pokes his head up over the edge. Butternut strikes out immediately; the hobgob shouts a warning and blocks her short sword, but her dagger plunges into his eye and through into the brain. Its grip released, the body falls backward into the gully.
There appears to be one more hobgoblins down below, but that isn't her immediate concern. Butternut turns to the task of ending the sleeping hobgoblins. Bending over the nearest one, she places her sword and knife on either side of its neck in an X-shape, then slices hard across with both blades.
Once she's sure the hobgoblin is dead, she looks up in time to see Kaylessa return with Erisciana and Laurel. "Welcome back. You missed most of the fun. I think there's one left, if you want to help feather it."
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Vardra Marcus, PFC:
After Kaylessa leaves in search of Erisciana, Vernar and Butternut advance toward the drop-off. Movement in the rope suggests that another hobgoblin might be attempting to climb up. Vardra holds his position, covering the other two with his bow as promised.
Butternut arrives at the bodies before Vernar. Just as she arrives, another hobgoblin pulls itself to the top of the rope. Vardra cannot fire, as the halfling is blocking his shot. Fortunately, it is not needed as she shoves her dagger to the hilt in its eye! The hobgoblins goes tumbling back the way it came.
At nearly the same time, a poorly-aimed arrow flies up from below, indicating the presence of at least one more hobgoblin in the gully. Vardra advances toward the ledge to the right of the halfling woman. If he can get a clear shot, he will perforate any enemy that he sees down there.
Butternut seems more focused on the sleeping hobgoblins at the moment. "Hey Butternut, help me take out the one that's still awake, okay? You can have your fun with those afterwards."
Just as he starts to turn back, Kaylessa reappears, leading Laurel and Erisciana. "Wanna join me for a little target practice, Kaylessa?" He points over the edge toward the source of the arrows from below.
After Kaylessa leaves in search of Erisciana, Vernar and Butternut advance toward the drop-off. Movement in the rope suggests that another hobgoblin might be attempting to climb up. Vardra holds his position, covering the other two with his bow as promised.
Butternut arrives at the bodies before Vernar. Just as she arrives, another hobgoblin pulls itself to the top of the rope. Vardra cannot fire, as the halfling is blocking his shot. Fortunately, it is not needed as she shoves her dagger to the hilt in its eye! The hobgoblins goes tumbling back the way it came.
At nearly the same time, a poorly-aimed arrow flies up from below, indicating the presence of at least one more hobgoblin in the gully. Vardra advances toward the ledge to the right of the halfling woman. If he can get a clear shot, he will perforate any enemy that he sees down there.
Butternut seems more focused on the sleeping hobgoblins at the moment. "Hey Butternut, help me take out the one that's still awake, okay? You can have your fun with those afterwards."
Just as he starts to turn back, Kaylessa reappears, leading Laurel and Erisciana. "Wanna join me for a little target practice, Kaylessa?" He points over the edge toward the source of the arrows from below.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Vernar -
As Kaylessa moves off to inform the others, Butternut is already on the move. Ren holds off cutting the rope, and Vernar notices it is quite taut. It isn't long before another hobgoblin appears and shouts out something. Butternut savagely deals with it as Vernar peaks over the edge. He only spots one more archer, but he has to move back quickly as an arrow streaks by. Keen eyes on that one, he thinks.
Rolling on his back, he calls out quietly to the others, "Jus' one more all I be seein' below at the moment."
Just then Kaylessa and a few others return. No doubt they will make short work of the lone hobgoblin below, so Vernar doesn't feel the need to join in right at that moment. Still, it is strange to only send such a small handful up this way. Hoping he's wrong, Vernar moves a little further away from where he last peeked over and will then crawl back to the edge. Looking down once more, he scans the area to see if any more enemies are moving to other flanking positions.
As Kaylessa moves off to inform the others, Butternut is already on the move. Ren holds off cutting the rope, and Vernar notices it is quite taut. It isn't long before another hobgoblin appears and shouts out something. Butternut savagely deals with it as Vernar peaks over the edge. He only spots one more archer, but he has to move back quickly as an arrow streaks by. Keen eyes on that one, he thinks.
Rolling on his back, he calls out quietly to the others, "Jus' one more all I be seein' below at the moment."
Just then Kaylessa and a few others return. No doubt they will make short work of the lone hobgoblin below, so Vernar doesn't feel the need to join in right at that moment. Still, it is strange to only send such a small handful up this way. Hoping he's wrong, Vernar moves a little further away from where he last peeked over and will then crawl back to the edge. Looking down once more, he scans the area to see if any more enemies are moving to other flanking positions.
"Here I go again on my own..." ~the Bard Whitesnake
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Post Continued:
April 14th, CR 569
A new enemy force has appeared composed of hobgoblins. While the main body fired arrows from long distance, a smaller group attempted to use the distraction to sneak around and get behind the squads. This failed due to Butternut noticing them near the edge of the drop off. A sleep spell took out two of the enemy while arrows and daggers removed a third. A forth hobgoblin appeared climbing up from below. Butternut stabbed him in the face and he fell into the gully below. Down there, one more hobgoblin could be seen and he fired arrows that missed their targets.
Reaching the edge, Vardra loads his composite longbow and fires. This first arrow misses the target, but the second one grazes the enemy. Kaylessa arrives with Erisciana and the elf adds her own arrows. She manages to clip the target with her first arrow, but misses with the second. The hobgoblin takes the hint and dashes for cover of the light forest down in the gully.
Vernar takes crawls to the edge of the drop off and takes a good look down. He catches the hobgoblin going for the safety of the trees but does not see any other enemies in the area. However, there is enough trees and rocks to hide behind below that there could be more down there. The rope the hobgoblin climbed up on is still there and secured.
While that is going on, Butternut cuts the throats of the two sleeping hobgoblins. They bleed out quickly and perish.
From this position, the group is somewhat obscured by the trees growing up in the gully below from the main enemy force advancing up the roads. Unlike the area near the top of the road, the light forest in the gully was not pruned here to allow unobstructed sight. Glimpses of the enemy approaching can be seen here and there.
Elsewhere, Sorvani and Sann Silverbeard work on wrapping arrows and bolts in cloth from bandages. Wimzy then transports these to the side of the road where Flare and Gerett are ready for them. A small fire was made ready and one of the flasks of oil opened. The cloth on the missile is sprinkled with oil which is then lite and the missile fired!
Flare takes aim and fires a flaming arrow down towards the advancing force. His aim is true and both arrows impact on the large body shields! The first arrow embeds itself into the shield and it starts to burn! The shield is quickly discarded down the slope behind the enemy.
The second shot is truly spectacular. The flaming arrows strikes the shield and penetrates it! There is a muffled cry as the enemy hiding behind the shield is hit by the arrow! The shield is quickly dropped and the dead body is also tossed down the slope behind the enemy. In both cases, the advancing enemy body closes up ranks to eliminate the gaps.
Gerett lines up a shot and fires a flaming crossbow bolt at the enemy. His aim is true and the missile impacts on the body shield, setting it on fire. Once more the shield is discarded and the formation eliminates the gap.
A few arrows are fired towards the archers, but none come close to hitting the mark. The enemy procession continues to advance and are now reaching the midpoint of the the first loop as the road snakes its way up the hillside.
April 14th, CR 569
A new enemy force has appeared composed of hobgoblins. While the main body fired arrows from long distance, a smaller group attempted to use the distraction to sneak around and get behind the squads. This failed due to Butternut noticing them near the edge of the drop off. A sleep spell took out two of the enemy while arrows and daggers removed a third. A forth hobgoblin appeared climbing up from below. Butternut stabbed him in the face and he fell into the gully below. Down there, one more hobgoblin could be seen and he fired arrows that missed their targets.
Reaching the edge, Vardra loads his composite longbow and fires. This first arrow misses the target, but the second one grazes the enemy. Kaylessa arrives with Erisciana and the elf adds her own arrows. She manages to clip the target with her first arrow, but misses with the second. The hobgoblin takes the hint and dashes for cover of the light forest down in the gully.
Vernar takes crawls to the edge of the drop off and takes a good look down. He catches the hobgoblin going for the safety of the trees but does not see any other enemies in the area. However, there is enough trees and rocks to hide behind below that there could be more down there. The rope the hobgoblin climbed up on is still there and secured.
While that is going on, Butternut cuts the throats of the two sleeping hobgoblins. They bleed out quickly and perish.
From this position, the group is somewhat obscured by the trees growing up in the gully below from the main enemy force advancing up the roads. Unlike the area near the top of the road, the light forest in the gully was not pruned here to allow unobstructed sight. Glimpses of the enemy approaching can be seen here and there.
Elsewhere, Sorvani and Sann Silverbeard work on wrapping arrows and bolts in cloth from bandages. Wimzy then transports these to the side of the road where Flare and Gerett are ready for them. A small fire was made ready and one of the flasks of oil opened. The cloth on the missile is sprinkled with oil which is then lite and the missile fired!
Flare takes aim and fires a flaming arrow down towards the advancing force. His aim is true and both arrows impact on the large body shields! The first arrow embeds itself into the shield and it starts to burn! The shield is quickly discarded down the slope behind the enemy.
The second shot is truly spectacular. The flaming arrows strikes the shield and penetrates it! There is a muffled cry as the enemy hiding behind the shield is hit by the arrow! The shield is quickly dropped and the dead body is also tossed down the slope behind the enemy. In both cases, the advancing enemy body closes up ranks to eliminate the gaps.
Gerett lines up a shot and fires a flaming crossbow bolt at the enemy. His aim is true and the missile impacts on the body shield, setting it on fire. Once more the shield is discarded and the formation eliminates the gap.
A few arrows are fired towards the archers, but none come close to hitting the mark. The enemy procession continues to advance and are now reaching the midpoint of the the first loop as the road snakes its way up the hillside.
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
GM Notes:
Here is the updated map:
Now what?
Here is the updated map:
- graystone033.jpg (98.49 KiB) Viewed 8504 times
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar -
A loud scream erupts from up ahead as Erisciana and Laurel follow the elf Kaylessa back to the flank attack. As they arrive to the edge of the forested bluff, the priestess sees Butternut cutting the throats of two fallen large ugly humanoids. Vardra indicates that more are down below the bluff and Kaylessa joins him in launching missiles over the edge.
Vernar is up close to the edge of the bluff and trying to be hidden. Vardra and Kaylessa only fire a few volleys and stop, which make her curious what's happening. "Did you kill the enemy, or drive them off?" she asks the archers.
Turning to Vernar, she will ask, "What's the situation down there?" She creeps carefully up to the edge, trying to stay hidden behind the cover of a nearby tree, enough distance from the dwarf so as not to give his position away. She sees the copse of trees in the gully below, but doesn't notice any enemy. She is wise enough to know that doesn't mean they aren't there.
"There's a large group of those humanoids coming up the road, using tower shields to cover their advance," she says to the group in general. She points in the general direction and through the trees, they see a flash of fire down below. "Gerett and Flare are bombing them with flaming arrows, but there are too many to stop them completely. We need to get control of the trees in the gully," she says indicating the area below them. "They are trying to catch us between two forces, which is a standard tactical move. While we deal with one force, the other presses us from another direction. We need to act decisively. If we can take those trees, then we can create our own pincer and turn the maneuver against them."
"Vernar, you and the other scouts need to identify if there are more enemy in those trees and if possible eliminate them. Do you think it best to follow their route directly or come in from the other side near the road? In either case, archers can cover your approach. If the group uses the rope, I could Levitate the first person down or cast Darkness part of the way down the rope, so you are mostly obscured. Otherwise, you will have to go back to near the road to reach a less steep decline."
"Laurel has volunteered to go with your group," she says. "It is wise to have a healer with you and she is confident that she can keep up with you. Vardra, they can use your assistance shooting flaming arrows. If the scouts go down here, watch for enemy on the treeline below and shoot them. I can stay here and if they show themselves can cast a spell of Sleep from here and reach the trees as well. Otherwise we cover them closer to the road."
To the scouts, she will ask, "Which do you think is the best approach angle for your group?"
"The direct route might submit you to fire from enemy in the trees, should they be present. The route by the road might submit you to brief but more concentrated from the advancing group. In any case, we will cover your approach as best as we can."
A loud scream erupts from up ahead as Erisciana and Laurel follow the elf Kaylessa back to the flank attack. As they arrive to the edge of the forested bluff, the priestess sees Butternut cutting the throats of two fallen large ugly humanoids. Vardra indicates that more are down below the bluff and Kaylessa joins him in launching missiles over the edge.
Vernar is up close to the edge of the bluff and trying to be hidden. Vardra and Kaylessa only fire a few volleys and stop, which make her curious what's happening. "Did you kill the enemy, or drive them off?" she asks the archers.
Turning to Vernar, she will ask, "What's the situation down there?" She creeps carefully up to the edge, trying to stay hidden behind the cover of a nearby tree, enough distance from the dwarf so as not to give his position away. She sees the copse of trees in the gully below, but doesn't notice any enemy. She is wise enough to know that doesn't mean they aren't there.
"There's a large group of those humanoids coming up the road, using tower shields to cover their advance," she says to the group in general. She points in the general direction and through the trees, they see a flash of fire down below. "Gerett and Flare are bombing them with flaming arrows, but there are too many to stop them completely. We need to get control of the trees in the gully," she says indicating the area below them. "They are trying to catch us between two forces, which is a standard tactical move. While we deal with one force, the other presses us from another direction. We need to act decisively. If we can take those trees, then we can create our own pincer and turn the maneuver against them."
"Vernar, you and the other scouts need to identify if there are more enemy in those trees and if possible eliminate them. Do you think it best to follow their route directly or come in from the other side near the road? In either case, archers can cover your approach. If the group uses the rope, I could Levitate the first person down or cast Darkness part of the way down the rope, so you are mostly obscured. Otherwise, you will have to go back to near the road to reach a less steep decline."
"Laurel has volunteered to go with your group," she says. "It is wise to have a healer with you and she is confident that she can keep up with you. Vardra, they can use your assistance shooting flaming arrows. If the scouts go down here, watch for enemy on the treeline below and shoot them. I can stay here and if they show themselves can cast a spell of Sleep from here and reach the trees as well. Otherwise we cover them closer to the road."
To the scouts, she will ask, "Which do you think is the best approach angle for your group?"
- eaglenestbase.jpg (45.88 KiB) Viewed 8481 times
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Butternut:
As Butternut moves to eliminate the sleeping hobgobs, Vardra tries to call her away to help deal with the one remaining enemy archer. "You deal with that, Vardra, I have business to take care of here." Matching deeds to words, she ruthlessly and efficiently ends the lives of these goblinoids.
That done, she joins the others at the edge of the escarpment. If there is any sign of the fleeing hobgoblin, she will attempt to put a quarrel in its back.
Erisciana fills them in on the hobgoblins working their way up the road behind the cover of large shields. Apparently Gerett and Flare are firing fire arrows into the shields, which is slowing their advance. She then urges Vernar to take the scouting group down into the gully where the hobgob archer fled, though she doesn't seem sure whether or not there are others there.
Also, Laurel wants to join the scouts. "Welcome, Laurel," Butternut says. "Good to have a healer with us. If you're even half as stealthy as your cat, you'll fit in well."
__________________________________________________________________________________
Edited based on clarification from Ken.
As Butternut moves to eliminate the sleeping hobgobs, Vardra tries to call her away to help deal with the one remaining enemy archer. "You deal with that, Vardra, I have business to take care of here." Matching deeds to words, she ruthlessly and efficiently ends the lives of these goblinoids.
That done, she joins the others at the edge of the escarpment. If there is any sign of the fleeing hobgoblin, she will attempt to put a quarrel in its back.
Erisciana fills them in on the hobgoblins working their way up the road behind the cover of large shields. Apparently Gerett and Flare are firing fire arrows into the shields, which is slowing their advance. She then urges Vernar to take the scouting group down into the gully where the hobgob archer fled, though she doesn't seem sure whether or not there are others there.
Also, Laurel wants to join the scouts. "Welcome, Laurel," Butternut says. "Good to have a healer with us. If you're even half as stealthy as your cat, you'll fit in well."
"I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm going to check the rest of the drop-off," Butternut says, pointing to the north. "We need to make sure none of the hobgobs managed to worm there way back there. Then, we can climb down the rope they left and play their own game."Erisciana wrote:To the scouts, she will ask, "Which do you think is the best approach angle for your group?"
"The direct route might submit you to fire from enemy in the trees, should they be present. The route by the road might submit you to brief but more concentrated from the advancing group. In any case, we will cover your approach as best as we can."
__________________________________________________________________________________
Edited based on clarification from Ken.
Last edited by Butternut on Fri Nov 22, 2019 12:22 am, edited 1 time in total.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
GM Notes:
There's a little bit of confusion on the lay of the land as far as the map goes. The map below should help explain it better.
The red I added to the map are places where the slope is so steep it cannot be climbed without climbing gear. The more pinkish red are the areas that can be climbed without gear. I replaced the words drop off with sheer drop as that is more what I meant. This drop goes all the way down to the valley below, where the entrance to the dwarf/goblin lair is located. Falling off of this is death. That's why the hobgoblin in the gully was more south of the players instead of west.
Hope that clears things up!
There's a little bit of confusion on the lay of the land as far as the map goes. The map below should help explain it better.
- graystone034.jpg (130.13 KiB) Viewed 8467 times
Hope that clears things up!
Try it and find out!
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Lucyus
Lucyus watches as the archers make arrows of fire and send then send them down range. He turns to Kendell, “There is a chance that whatever comes up this pass will see us and come for us.” He says evenly. “though they may go for the archers. Do you want to stay here or move to protect the archers.” Lucyus asks curiously to Kendell
Lucyus watches as the archers make arrows of fire and send then send them down range. He turns to Kendell, “There is a chance that whatever comes up this pass will see us and come for us.” He says evenly. “though they may go for the archers. Do you want to stay here or move to protect the archers.” Lucyus asks curiously to Kendell
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Vardra Marcus, PFC:
Moving to the edge of the embankment, Vardra fires twice but only manages to graze the target. "I need more target practice," he says, disappointment staining his words. Kaylessa doesn't have any better luck, and the hobgoblins scampers into the trees down in the gully below.
The foreign priestess talks a bit more about what the others are doing. "Fire arrows, huh? Nice. That will give them something to think about." She then tells Vernar and the other scouts what she wants them to do.
"Good to know. Thank you, Vernar," Vardra says.Vernar wrote:Rolling on his back, he calls out quietly to the others, "Jus' one more all I be seein' below at the moment."
Moving to the edge of the embankment, Vardra fires twice but only manages to graze the target. "I need more target practice," he says, disappointment staining his words. Kaylessa doesn't have any better luck, and the hobgoblins scampers into the trees down in the gully below.
"We got all but one, as far as we can tell. That last one sprinted off into the trees down there." Vardra points with his bow toward where the hobgoblin was last seen. He continues to watch the area carefully for any sign of the hobgoblin.Erisciana wrote:Vernar is up close to the edge of the bluff and trying to be hidden. Vardra and Kaylessa only fire a few volleys and stop, which make her curious what's happening. "Did you kill the enemy, or drive them off?" she asks the archers.
The foreign priestess talks a bit more about what the others are doing. "Fire arrows, huh? Nice. That will give them something to think about." She then tells Vernar and the other scouts what she wants them to do.
"Hi Laurel," Vardra says, still not taking his eyes from the trees below.Erisciana wrote:"Laurel has volunteered to go with your group," she says. "It is wise to have a healer with you and she is confident that she can keep up with you. Vardra, they can use your assistance shooting flaming arrows. If the scouts go down here, watch for enemy on the treeline below and shoot them. I can stay here and if they show themselves can cast a spell of Sleep from here and reach the trees as well. Otherwise we cover them closer to the road."
"I'll cover you while you descend," Vardra says. "Once you're in the cover of the woods, I'll go help the other archers."Butternut wrote:"I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm going to check the rest of the drop-off," Butternut says, pointing to the north. "We need to make sure none of the hobgobs managed to worm there way back there. Then, we can climb down the rope they left and play their own game."
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie, Butternut, Onas, and Vardra)
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Vernar -
"We can mop them up easily enough if you leave me Kaylessa, Ren, Butternut, an' Laurel," Vernar replies in a sincere tone. "That be more 'n enough power t' cripple the rest o' these hobgoblin flankers should there be more in there," he says the last, indicating the wooded area below.
"Jus' be the one," Vernar replies as he peers over the edge. "An' he be runnin' back t' cover."Turning to Vernar, she will ask, "What's the situation down there?"
Vernar nods, "I be hard pressed t' believe that be all o' them. If we be wantin' t' do this quick, then we should scurry down the rope. All else be takin' a while t' work around.""Vernar, you and the other scouts need to identify if there are more enemy in those trees and if possible eliminate them. Do you think it best to follow their route directly or come in from the other side near the road? In either case, archers can cover your approach. If the group uses the rope, I could Levitate the first person down or cast Darkness part of the way down the rope, so you are mostly obscured. Otherwise, you will have to go back to near the road to reach a less steep decline."
Vernar waits to see if Butternut sees anything further north. If there's nothing, then he will prepare to descend down the rope as quick as he can. Turning to Erisciana he'll say, "If you be wantin' t' cast your levitate magic, then maybe one with better missile weapons be a better choice. They can be shootin' back while the rest o' us descend the rope.""I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm going to check the rest of the drop-off," Butternut says, pointing to the north. "We need to make sure none of the hobgobs managed to worm there way back there. Then, we can climb down the rope they left and play their own game."
"We can mop them up easily enough if you leave me Kaylessa, Ren, Butternut, an' Laurel," Vernar replies in a sincere tone. "That be more 'n enough power t' cripple the rest o' these hobgoblin flankers should there be more in there," he says the last, indicating the wooded area below.
"Here I go again on my own..." ~the Bard Whitesnake
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Kaylessa
With Laurel
As Kaylessa turns to leave Laurel comes to a snap decision. Quickly she'll jog up to Erisciana and say, "I can do more good with the scouting party than back here. I know how to stay out of the way and I haven't used any of my spells."
Stopping, Kaylessa looks to see the human priestess, “There is a time to stay out of the way and another to stand firm. I hope you will know when that times comes what you will do.”
-Vardra
She takes aim an hits her target then fires again to miss the running hobogoblin. Letting loose a Elfish curse.
Kaylessa looks to Erisciana and says,
“If we are to follow I would do it as you say, use the rope and follow them into the treeline. Hopefully coming up behind them. With the shield wall coming up the path, we could thin their ranks from the sides and rear once clear."
"I can go down on the rope, cover you guys with my bow and check the dead. Perhaps they have maps on them that we may be able to use."
With Laurel
As Kaylessa turns to leave Laurel comes to a snap decision. Quickly she'll jog up to Erisciana and say, "I can do more good with the scouting party than back here. I know how to stay out of the way and I haven't used any of my spells."
Stopping, Kaylessa looks to see the human priestess, “There is a time to stay out of the way and another to stand firm. I hope you will know when that times comes what you will do.”
-Vardra
“I don’t practice on the living.” she says curtly to the human as she takes out an arrow and knocks it. She was taught if you were to take a life you should have a good reason to do so, not to treat it as a play thing.Just as he starts to turn back, Kaylessa reappears, leading Laurel and Erisciana. "Wanna join me for a little target practice, Kaylessa?" He points over the edge toward the source of the arrows from below.
She takes aim an hits her target then fires again to miss the running hobogoblin. Letting loose a Elfish curse.
“He got to the safety of the trees. If he has half a brain he will go back to his superiors.”Vernar is up close to the edge of the bluff and trying to be hidden. Vardra and Kaylessa only fire a few volleys and stop, which make her curious what's happening. "Did you kill the enemy, or drive them off?" she asks the archers.
Kaylessa looks to Erisciana and says,
“If we are to follow I would do it as you say, use the rope and follow them into the treeline. Hopefully coming up behind them. With the shield wall coming up the path, we could thin their ranks from the sides and rear once clear."
"I can go down on the rope, cover you guys with my bow and check the dead. Perhaps they have maps on them that we may be able to use."
Re: Operation: Graystone #20
Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar -
The group starts to make plans to take the forest in the gully below, careful of the humanoids and their attempted incursion. The initial probing maneuver by what a few of their number are calling hobgoblins was driven off easily enough, but one of their number appears to have successfully retreated.
"We got all but one, as far as we can tell. That last one sprinted off into the trees down there." Vardra points with his bow toward where the hobgoblin was last seen. He continues to watch the area carefully for any sign of the hobgoblin.
The priestess sneaks forward to get a view for herself.
Turning to Vernar, she will ask, "What's the situation down there?"
"Jus' be the one," Vernar replies as he peers over the edge. "An' he be runnin' back t' cover."
Vernar and Butternut seem to agree. Not surprising as the pair has appeared to work well together and in cohesion. They will go down the rope left by the hobgoblin flanking party.
"I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm going to check the rest of the drop-off," Butternut says, pointing to the north. "We need to make sure none of the hobgobs managed to worm their way back there. Then, we can climb down the rope they left and play their own game."
"Good idea," Erisci will offer. "They may have several little groups attempting to infiltrate. Best to be thorough." As the halfling ranger starts to move off, the priestess will look to the elf, Kaylessa. "Perhaps you should join her, in case there are more enemy nearby."
Vernar nods, "I be hard pressed t' believe that be all o' them. If we be wantin' t' do this quick, then we should scurry down the rope. All else be takin' a while t' work around."
Kaylessa adds her affirmation to the plan. Kaylessa looks to Erisciana and says, “If we are to follow I would do it as you say, use the rope and follow them into the treeline. Hopefully coming up behind them. With the shield wall coming up the path, we could thin their ranks from the sides and rear once clear."
"That was my thought exactly. Force them to change their plans and react to us. Put their attack on the defensive." She smiles, but it is grim and without mirth. There is still much fighting to happen this day and judging from their foes, much blood remains to be spilt.
The group then waits for Butternut's report. Erisci will rifle through the dead hobgoblins belongings. Not expecting to find anything of value, it passes a few moments while they wait for the brief scouting run.
If there are no interruptions, then the scouts have decided to descend the rope and quickly get after the hobgoblin who retreated. Turning to Erisciana he'll say, "If you be wantin' t' cast your levitate magic, then maybe one with better missile weapons be a better choice. They can be shootin' back while the rest o' us descend the rope."
"We can mop them up easily enough if you leave me Kaylessa, Ren, Butternut, an' Laurel," Vernar replies in a sincere tone. "That be more 'n enough power t' cripple the rest o' these hobgoblin flankers should there be more in there," he says the last, indicating the wooded area below.
Erisci steps up to the dwarven fighter-scout and raps him lightly on his armored shoulder with her balled fist. "Strike well, my friend. May the Goddess watch over you and your group."
Vernar waits to see if Butternut sees anything further north. If there's nothing, then he will prepare to descend down the rope as quick as he can. Turning to Erisciana he'll say, "If you be wantin' t' cast your levitate magic, then maybe one with better missile weapons be a better choice. They can be shootin' back while the rest o' us descend the rope."
Kaylessa decides to use the rope as well. "I can go down on the rope, cover you guys with my bow and check the dead. Perhaps they have maps on them that we may be able to use."
Erisciana then turns to Butternut. "Would you prefer to be Levitated down to the lower area, or climb like the others?"
As the group descends, the priestess will remain to help cover their movement down and into the trees below. A Sleep spell could prove useful and the treeline is well within range from where she stands.
"I'll cover you while you descend," Vardra says. "Once you're in the cover of the woods, I'll go help the other archers." Erisci considers the fighter for a moment. Making a decision, she says nothing more.
The group starts to make plans to take the forest in the gully below, careful of the humanoids and their attempted incursion. The initial probing maneuver by what a few of their number are calling hobgoblins was driven off easily enough, but one of their number appears to have successfully retreated.
"We got all but one, as far as we can tell. That last one sprinted off into the trees down there." Vardra points with his bow toward where the hobgoblin was last seen. He continues to watch the area carefully for any sign of the hobgoblin.
The priestess sneaks forward to get a view for herself.
Turning to Vernar, she will ask, "What's the situation down there?"
"Jus' be the one," Vernar replies as he peers over the edge. "An' he be runnin' back t' cover."
Vernar and Butternut seem to agree. Not surprising as the pair has appeared to work well together and in cohesion. They will go down the rope left by the hobgoblin flanking party.
"I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm going to check the rest of the drop-off," Butternut says, pointing to the north. "We need to make sure none of the hobgobs managed to worm their way back there. Then, we can climb down the rope they left and play their own game."
"Good idea," Erisci will offer. "They may have several little groups attempting to infiltrate. Best to be thorough." As the halfling ranger starts to move off, the priestess will look to the elf, Kaylessa. "Perhaps you should join her, in case there are more enemy nearby."
Vernar nods, "I be hard pressed t' believe that be all o' them. If we be wantin' t' do this quick, then we should scurry down the rope. All else be takin' a while t' work around."
Kaylessa adds her affirmation to the plan. Kaylessa looks to Erisciana and says, “If we are to follow I would do it as you say, use the rope and follow them into the treeline. Hopefully coming up behind them. With the shield wall coming up the path, we could thin their ranks from the sides and rear once clear."
"That was my thought exactly. Force them to change their plans and react to us. Put their attack on the defensive." She smiles, but it is grim and without mirth. There is still much fighting to happen this day and judging from their foes, much blood remains to be spilt.
The group then waits for Butternut's report. Erisci will rifle through the dead hobgoblins belongings. Not expecting to find anything of value, it passes a few moments while they wait for the brief scouting run.
If there are no interruptions, then the scouts have decided to descend the rope and quickly get after the hobgoblin who retreated. Turning to Erisciana he'll say, "If you be wantin' t' cast your levitate magic, then maybe one with better missile weapons be a better choice. They can be shootin' back while the rest o' us descend the rope."
"We can mop them up easily enough if you leave me Kaylessa, Ren, Butternut, an' Laurel," Vernar replies in a sincere tone. "That be more 'n enough power t' cripple the rest o' these hobgoblin flankers should there be more in there," he says the last, indicating the wooded area below.
Erisci steps up to the dwarven fighter-scout and raps him lightly on his armored shoulder with her balled fist. "Strike well, my friend. May the Goddess watch over you and your group."
Vernar waits to see if Butternut sees anything further north. If there's nothing, then he will prepare to descend down the rope as quick as he can. Turning to Erisciana he'll say, "If you be wantin' t' cast your levitate magic, then maybe one with better missile weapons be a better choice. They can be shootin' back while the rest o' us descend the rope."
Kaylessa decides to use the rope as well. "I can go down on the rope, cover you guys with my bow and check the dead. Perhaps they have maps on them that we may be able to use."
Erisciana then turns to Butternut. "Would you prefer to be Levitated down to the lower area, or climb like the others?"
As the group descends, the priestess will remain to help cover their movement down and into the trees below. A Sleep spell could prove useful and the treeline is well within range from where she stands.
"I'll cover you while you descend," Vardra says. "Once you're in the cover of the woods, I'll go help the other archers." Erisci considers the fighter for a moment. Making a decision, she says nothing more.