The Society’s finest have dealt a great blow to the demonic generals.
The host of Demons seems to have lost coordination as they engage along the battle lines, with the Generals mostly cut down and the siege engines still firing, the horde starts falling apart.
The demons go into retreat or are cut down by the crusaders and Pathfinders who swarm those foolish enough to stay. With the host in retreat, the defenders also start recovering the injured and slain.
The dust settles as surviving Pathfinders find their way back to the Starrise Citadel. Dozens lie wounded, some bearing injuries that may prove fatal. Smoke chokes the air as crusaders continue to douse still-burning buildings whose flames are now mercifully under control.
Venture-Captain Jorsal silently walks up and down the lines of Pathfinders. He rarely speaks, only giving an understanding nod or a comforting smile. The arrival of a squad of battered crusaders from the center of the city breaks the grim moment. At their head rides a stern woman bedecked in shining full plate engraved with intricate gold filigree. Her weapon is coated in what must be demonic ichor, and several of her helmet’s once beautiful blue plumes are charred. This can only be Queen Galfrey, crusader queen of Mendev and leader of Nerosyan.
She brings her entourage to a halt and addresses the assembled Pathfinders. “Words cannot express the gratitude of Mendev. What your Society has done here today goes well beyond what duty required. I have learned that this attack was just one of many in a coordinated assault against all of Mendev, and that our wardstones have failed us, disabled by some demonic treachery. Our city only stands thanks to the efforts of those such as yourselves. I have spoken with Venture- Captain Jorsal, and Mendev shall do whatever it can to aid you in reaching the Sky Citadel of Jormurdun—so long as doing so does not interfere with the new war".
“Now, I must depart for the city of Kenabres to inspect the damage done there. Woefully, it did not have the benefit of the Pathfinder Society’s assistance when it was assaulted, and all reports indicate the city is now completely ruined.” She pauses, worry visible on her face before concluding, “Thank you, all of you for your efforts here today.” Without another word, Queen Galfrey and her entourage turn and leave. The remaining Pathfinder survivors stand united, under the still-brilliant light of the Starrise Spire.
Unable to breach the walls of the city with their primary army, the demons have broken into a full retreat. The crusaders are ready to strike back against the demons. Congratulations Pathfinders on your overwhelming victory!
|
As Oiur runs up to the last downed crusader, beyond the line of skirmish, a giant balrog gives a scream of pain and collapses in a heap. It explodes in a massive ball of fire and takes out many of the demons around it not completely immune to fire. Many of the smaller demons look towards the dead commander and start to teleport out, one by one. Those that don't start to turn tail and run. The crusaders take heart at this and start to rally after them.
The two demons harassing the group look at that and quickly cast spells, popping out of existence and leaving the group in peace. A few crusaders limp by and help Oiur with bandaging the last man on the field you could see and they gesture for you to follow them back to the city.
The party makes it to the Aid Tent, where a grimy Hiko greets them. "Thank-you for the hard work! Thanks to you we were able to save quite a few crusaders from dying alone in the fields! But it seems like Jorsal wants us to gather back up at the Starrise tower!" She shoos you off, and starts gathering up her equipment. "I'll be right after you!"
---------
She meets up with you at the base of the tower just before Queen Galfrey arrives and sits in silence as she watches the proceedings. "We did it! We beat them off! And I'm sure you were no small part in that effort!" She gives a small stretch and a small yawn before continuing. "You know what, we should celebrate! Anyone want to go see if there's a tavern serving drinks? I know this great place just near here..."