Memnon grabs the extra ring "Thank you and we will do what we can for you town."
He turns to the rest of the group "We ready?"
Fearing attack and not wanting to miss out fighting gobbies; Dinpel abandons stealth and sprints back to the group as they may have no idea that things of this scale are progressing.
I'm ready to go.
Untrusting in the magic of the tallk folk, I grab my ring, and subtly slip it into my pocket instead of onto my finger.
With a nod and a wink, Erian replies, "I'm ready. Let's go goblin-trappin'!" His new ring already adorning the index finger of his right hand, the young ranger starts heading for the door.
"Ready," says Veirax, looking at his new ring in wonder, a warm smile gradually widening on his somber face as he sees the resolve and unity in his new companions.
Lady Janas places the ring on her finger and smiles at the gift. Then she tries to cover a few more eventualities.
"If we are at the gate and the majority of the forces are elsewhere. How do we communicate? It may be important or not. Also are the little horrors all we are going to face. Do they come in bigger terrors ... like giants?"
asks the elf of everyone.
Erian nods somewhat knowingly, "If we're fighting a large force of goblins, you can almost count on their larger kin being involved, and possibly in command. And let's not forget their affinity for wolves and their kin. I wouldn't be surprised to see a few giant-kin as well if this is truly an organized assault."
As the Goliath is leading the group out of the stables he says, “My Lady, you should join our military. You would make officer in no time. Indeed, there are more details to inform you all of, but I will let Sergeant Maetthere explain all of this. We are almost to him now.”
Then turning to Erian, “You are correct. Although, we lack information on the force we face, we must plan for the worst scenarios and expect more than just goblins. Now your scouting may provide some of that information, but if you were seen or by Ru‘s Ghost caught, our plans of defense could be put in jeopardy.”
Leaving the stable behind, you all follow the Goliath weaving through soldiers displayed by lamplight until he stops at a tall human man with short brown hair, clean shaven face, and brown eyes. The Goliath opens his mouth to speak, but stops and turns his head north when he sees Dinpel running south down Erian’s Way and joins the group, “Ah, little one. There you are. I was hoping that you would join us.” He pauses for a moment to allow Dinpel to join the group then refers back to the brown haired man. “Let me introduce Sergeant Maetthere. He will see to your needs in the defense of the river gate. Now I must take my leave to prepare in the west. Kagen Ru protect us all.” With this the Goliath takes several giant strides and fades into the darkness.
Sergeant Maetthere turns to you. His hard features are rocky islands against the shine of his lamp-lit armor. He wears finely polished plate armor and a long sword at this hip. He stands near a barded horse fitted with a quiver of arrows and a longbow. On the ground near the horse lies a glaive. “Greetings,” he says. “You have done Erian’s Glen a great service, and still you provide a great service. Thank you. I have a small band assigned to me to aid in the defense of the south wall and keep open communication with our western forces.” He then turns to Memnon, “You look like you might do well on a horse. We have a few in reserve if you choose.” Then to the group as a whole, “Shall we make our way south or are supplies needed? How are your weapons? Supply of arrows or bolts? I am here to assist. Please share with me any requests.” He looks at you all, ready to move south, unless there are needs to be met.
Erian speaks up enthusiastically, "A few quivers would likely be good--no point missing a shot because the arrow's not there, as my dad always said..." He pats his horse on the shoulder, adding, "And Sherwyn here's not exactly trained for battle. If he could be quartered somewhere safe along with my travel gear I'd appreciate it. Beyond that, I'd say getting down to the "secret entrance" and laying a few traps would be a good thing. We got any hunters in the lot that could provide such a service in the next few hours?"
Sergeant Maetthere turns to regard Erian and Sherwyn. “Fine steed. Great for riding I bet. But if not trained properly, definitely a disadvantage in battle.” Then he looks past the Ranger into the crowd of soldiers. In a booming voice he shouts, “Wacian, come here lad.” Behind you, a boy looks up from sharpening a sword. His brown hair is cut short, and he wears a blue uniform. He quickly sheaths the weapon and runs toward you.
He stops five feet away from Maetthere, stands straight, salutes and says, “Yes Sergeant?”
“Wacian,” he says sternly, but the hint of fondness for the boy comes through, “Go into the stables and fetch as many quivers as you can carry. Then take care of this good horse for our heroes.”
“Yes Sergeant,” Wacian says with formality, but as the boy turns you can catch a slight smile on the his face. He returns quickly with five quivers and straps them to Maetthere’s horse. Then he looks at Erian and reaches for Sherwyn’s bridle while giving a slight bow, “I promise to make sure he is properly cared for Sir.” After Erian acknowledges permission for Sherwyn to be taken, Wacian leads the horse into the stables.
Sergeant Maetthere then says, “He’s a good lad. Will make a fine soldier one day.” Then looking at Erian with an arm extended toward his horse, “I will get you these arrows once we’re settled.” Then smiling as he picks up his glaive, grabs the horse’s bridle, and starts leading his horse south, he says to Erian, “I’m sure we could set some traps. What would you have in mind?”
"An additional score of crossbow bolts for myself, if you please, Sergeant... perhaps with a few flasks of oil?"
<thoughtful> crossbow bolts for me I suppose; a score er so unless we be skirmishin n not holding a wall, then I'll not care ta be carrying a bunch o pointy sticks. Maybe some rations n bandages; you never know; guess i should refill my drinking skins too.
<excitedly and spoken very quickly>
Wow you guys; this whole place is getting real mobilized like we are expectin an invasion, seems a bit extreme to me, but seems like every son and his dog is running this way an that. Gobbies aren't known for attacking well armed and defended groups without the element of surprize unless they are driven by more powerful masters. Anybody got an inkling of what do be goin on cause I figured we was just chasin a small group dat stole a girl. This kinda reminds me of the story of the Battle of Grondolon pass, course it aint called dat nomore oh, oh or the begining of the Quest for the Heartfang with Duke whatsizname when the mean greenies attacked the outpost of...well, anyway.
<chuckling and slower>
This is a bit overwhelming, but exciting...anybody wanna start a contest on which of us gets the most gobbies? We need a prize....<gazed about for a prize>.
<chuckling and slower>
This is a bit overwhelming, but exciting...anybody wanna start a contest on which of us gets the most gobbies? We need a prize....<gazed about for a prize>.
Veirax sighs with discouragement and thumps his staff on the ground absent-mindedly. "I would have much preferred a diplomatic approach to solving this conflict, but it seems that all chance of that has already been abandoned. I'm sorry, Dinpel, but I have no wish to participate in a contest that is based on the slaughter of living beings, no matter how evil they may seem to us. We have no idea what drives these goblins against us -- perhaps they themeselves are being threatened by a greater evil? I pray to the Far Walker that I shall have no need to use any of these crossbow bolts, but fear that the decision may already have been made for me, by darker gods that would oppose my Lord...
"Sergeant, Eirean, what kind of scouting might we be able to do, if any?" Then, upon deeper reflection, "I guess nightfall has already negated that option for those who can't see in the dark without magic or lantern light, hasn't it?" The cleric sighs again and shakes his head in frustration.
"If any wish for the blessings of the Far Walker, that he may see you through the dark night ahead, then I shall be glad to bestow them..." Veirax looks at his companions expectantly, the scars above his brows making him seem that much more dour.
At Dinpel's excited chatter, Erian gives him a wink, "I'll take that wager!"
He then turns back to their escort, "As for traps, I'm thinking we can set something far enough in to allow some goblins through, trap them in a crossfire, and have them block the entrance so archers on the wall can take out those stuck on the other side. Bear traps, trip wires--whatever we can get in place in time that would slow or stop progress and we'll basically build a dam of goblins to hamper their own progress. We don't want it too close to the entrance, as that'd tip them off early. We'll pile up some scrap wood near the mill, light that to lure them in, then wait until they hit the traps before showing our presence. Maximize surprise, cut their ranks in half, and hopefully get a few volleys of arrows in them before they even fully realize we're on to their plan."
Sergeant Maetthere nods his head and sends a runner to collect several cases of bolts, flasks of oil, and drinking water. He mentions that he has a healer’s kit on his horse and that members of his unit have access to healing magic; therefore, bandages will be supplied if needed.
Sergeant Maetthere nods at Shepherd Veirax, “My men and I will surely welcome your blessing.” Then Maetthere nods at Erian, “Yes, sounds good. The fire is important. From what we found out from the goblin you captured, the fire at the mill was to draw away the guards on the wall and send a signal to the secondary force to enter and begin the assault. This plan could have been very effective if it was not for all of you. When we get south of the mill, we will make our preparations. Anything you need, if it is at my disposal, you will have. Now, let’s move.” With this, Sergeant Maetthere sets a fast pace south down Erian’s Way.
"Erian, I can create a magical wall of blue crackling light. It isn't real but it may hold them briefly. It looks a bit like lightning. We also need to light the gate as they enter if you wish to use arrowfire," adds Janas as the party go to the river gate.
Nodding several times as Janas talks, Erian says enthusiastically, "Great idea! Perhaps we could bring that up in front of the river gate just as the traps are sprung. That would further cut the goblins in half and get the lights going for us. Maybe we should line up some stationary light sources as well--torches covered by clay pots we could shatter to illuminate the area once needed. That'll really surprise them, since the goblins would likely be counting on darkness as a primary benefit to their attack."
As the group moves to their southern destination, Sergeant Maetthere listens to the group’s planning efforts. “Yes,” he nods his head, “Any way to separate the goblins and throw them off balance will surely help our efforts. Light sources will be very important. My men are Katu’s, so they will have the benefit of darkvision. Also, there will be some light penetrating the darkness by the fire. Keep in mind though, if we are going to cover up light sources, we will still need to see the containers in the dark and take good, strong shots to hit and break the containers. My men could probably do that if need be. Another option is that I could get our runners to requisition some sunrods from the Pelorites. We could use these and throw them in the area at an opportune time. Also, we could use the oil to make a ring just beyond the river gate, draw a line of oil to us for igniting and watch them burn and fall over each other in a fiery trap. My main concern also is that the goblins you took out were planning on using magical darkness. This secondary force may also use similar magic. This could hinder our efforts, but using your idea, Master Erian, of trip wires and such would slow them down. The darkness would not help them from falling in a pit of spikes or something.”
After taking a few breaths and pausing in thought he continues, “We should first concentrate on preparing a false pyre though. This will be the signal that initiates their assault. The goblins are expecting the fire to draw my men away from the wall; therefore, if you want men on the walls, they will need to be hidden.”
As you all approach the familiar grassy plain to the south of the mill, Maetthere ends with, “Well here we are. Where would you like to start?”
There is a grassy plain in front of you. There are carts, wood, and tools. Any supplies needed are most likely available. Maetthere’s men consist of six heavily muscled and lightly armored Katu’s armed with composite longbows and great swords. A human male wearing plate armor detailed with the symbol of Heironeous stands nearby. The shield in his left arm also bears similar markings. He also has a longsword at his hip and a holy symbol around his neck. Although his eyes show a look of strength and determination, his face does nothing to hide his youth. There are also three boys on horses in similar uniforms like the one worn by Wacian. You presume that they are runners.
Lady Janas looks for avenues of escape. She will leave the traps and fire to the more physical members of the group.
She wants to be within one bow shot of the river gate (at least), with a good bit of cover like a wall and a nice piece of dead ground to run away into.
As she thinks, Lady Janas asks "can we build an "inner wall" say with carts and items from the mill? Then the goblins will be trapped in a killing ground. Maybe not all the way but a few defended places. Maybe?"
Janas looks around for a response from Vierax, Memnon or Erian. They seem to be on the ball.
Memnon listens intently trying to keep up with all that was said. These men seem to have a pretty good handle on tactics and strategy. I let them plan the attack and I will lead the way in the initial charge.
"All this sounds good, just tell me where to be when we spring the trap."
Ava looks around, searching for a place to hide near the gate.
well, been a long day, might be a long night with running battles; a good soldier is trained to sleep when he can with his squad in shifts; am gonna grab a couple hours. whistle er sumtin ifn things change quickly; gonna cover myself over in dat wagon oer there; in the battle will work like Ava to get their casters, might be better if I get the casters and Ava gets their archers; dont know, we can work it out as the situtation presents itself.
Aradove sits back and listens to all of the talk amongst everyone. " I will go with you Ava, to find a hiding spot to take up the rear." Aradove plans to follow the same plan that Ava has as far as attacking from behind. She figures that Ethelwulf and her would be better and help more in this position.
"Dinpel I suggest you don't try to sleep in a wagon. We may be using them for obstacles soon."
Lady Janas quietly moves over to the party leader to discuss what should be done.
She asks him, "Memnon, why don't you organise the goblin fire with half the soldiers? Perhaps I could borrow the other half and the sergeant and set about moving wagons and logs into position. Until we know how much wood, carts and wagons are available I suggest we start with a simple funnel shape. The warriors can be waiting at the end. Archers behind the barricades and soldiers at the far end stopping the goblins lapping round."
Unless anyone changes things, which Lady Janas fully expects (since she is a talker not a warrior) she sets about the task with the sergeant and the soldiers - leaving Memnon, Erian and the rest to sleep and build the signal fire.
DM Spoiler
Roll 11+11+2=24.
"This is after bein' a fine plan and all and all. But you won't be takin' the fight outta the horrors with scant but shiny lights and harsh words." To emphasisze my point a snap my finger, summoning an instant of flame. "Nor can we be straight after winnin' and chasein' dem oe'r field an' stream as far as terror can carry them. They be here for a reason, and more important than stopping them is findin' out the why's and hows' and who's and where's."
"In the mean time, if ye be thinking of traps and snares to be slowing them down, then be sendin' runners off to gather every hack nail and piece of glass the town can spare. Draw some candles to, or better vats of glue or even honey."
"Coat the roap with one er the other to make it sticky, then dip[ it in the nails an' glass. Be after makin' trip lines and snares that are after bein' eight times more dangerous, and sixteen times harder to be after takin away, and all and all."
"If we can keep em coming through the narrow tunnel, a loop of such a rop stretched through the passage, with both de ends tied to the pommel of a saddle, should be able to sweep their legs out from under dem nasties," I spit to stress me point, "an' for de least fortunate, be swiping their legs clean off the grubby butts. It 'ill even serve to make the undertaker's job dat much de easier, though, probably be more trips..."
Thought the wagon would be good as it would be an obstackle and me hidden in there amongst the stuff under a blanket or something; well, dey crawls over it n I get a free whack at their exposed posteriors :) n still be not to far away ifn yall need help or I do.
Hide in wagon 18+6=24
"However reluctant I may be to shed the blood of any creature needlessly, I believe that need has been proven, and that I would be best off behind a wall, from where I could aim bolts dipped in flaming oil at the goblins, and survey the battlefield to spot those with a pressing need for healing."
Erian busies himself with the others--preparing the decoy fire near to the mill (preferably in between the mill and the grate approximately where the mill would be seen from outside, but not so close as to put it in danger), helping as best he can to prepare traps and delays to slow the goblin advance, then establishing "strong points" some distance away where archers might fire from safety and infantry can hide until the traps are sprung. For the later, he encourages everyone to make the positions look like the belong in the city so as to throw off any goblin suspicion. Finally he prepares himself, strapping two quivers of arrows to his back, testing the pull on his bow, and finally lashing his magical torch to his leg (it's ever-present, heatless fire blocked by a leather covering). He then takes up a position on the wall above the grate, hiding as best he can while keeping careful watch for movement beyond the fortifications.
Hide, Listen, Spot, Survival (1d20+6=15, 1d20+8=16, 1d20+8=27, 1d20+9=12)
Lady Janas helps organise the strong points and then will go around helping people hide.
Lady Janas then returns to stand behind the cover with Veirax.
Ava searches for a place to hide behind the gate.
Search (1d20+8=28)
After taking a short nap; Dinpel looks around to see what is happening and listens for sounds of combat; readies his weapons and waits from his hiding spot among the crates and gear in the wagon.
spot 12+4 16
listen 14+6 20
hide 17+6 23
"Friends," calls Veirax to the party, "if you remember to stand within 50 feet of my position, I can promise you that you shall benefit from the Far Walker's tangible blessings. I can also illuminate the battlefield with his light... I mean this literally!"
The young cleric then kneels behind his cover and murmurs a few prayers to himself, glancing up at Lady Janas as he dips his crossbow bolts in oil. "Lady, will you be able to help me by lighting and passing these bolts to me steadily as our foe enters the courtyard? If you wish, I could even show you how to wield this weapon... that way, if I should be needed in the fray (whether to assist a wounded companion or to join the melee), you could still fire upon the enemy from a distance. I am grateful that you will be by my side at the beginning of this fight... I could definitely use another pair of eyes to help me keep tabs on our many companions..."
The Shepherd smiles warmly at the lady, winding a loose mesh of hair that is dangling before his eyes back into the single long braid that hangs down his back, then ensuring that the latter is tucked beneath his cloak. He sighs profoundly, and his breath sounds shaky as he exhales. "Lady, I know that it is not gentlemanly for one to do so... but may I ask how old you are? This will be your first battle, will it not? Forgive me for saying so... but however much I value your presence here, this hardly seems like the place for one so fair as you to be... and I mean no offence by saying so... but I cannot bear the thought of harm befalling you... I shall pray fervently to the Far Walker, that he may keep you safe..."
The Shepherd's gaze goes from the lady's eyes, and back to the courtyard...
Lady Janas melts at his kind and gentlemanly words.
DM Spoiler
"You are good company and I feel safe beside you. As for weapons my family have taught me all I need to know about the bow and the sword." She shows the Shepherd her well made shortbow.
"However I shall provide a modicum of light which will dance about the gates. It will cover a 50ft circle and can be moved at will by me. The kind of light spell you mention is beyond my ken."
"Lastly by the way, I do not intend to die just yet and I have faced far worse than a pack of goblins. This daughter of the Harturi will survive but my fears are for those hiding by the gates. They are in far more danger."
Everyone pitches in and preparations are being made in good time. Foot traps, trip wires, and a potential fire ring are being created on the plains in close proximity to the entrance of the broken river gate. A pyre is being erected south of the mill but in close proximity to give the illusion that the mill will be on fire.
Sergeant Maetthere sends a runner and supplies Ava with a strong sleep toxin that the GoldLeaf Rangers use to help capture large wildlife when they want to inspect the health of the animal.
Then Sergeant Maetthere approaches the wagon that Dinpel is poking his head out of. “Master Jannipack, Correct? Your hiding spot will surely surprise the goblins if they climb over the wagon, but what if they crawl under? How about climbing down and giving me a hand tipping these wagons over with the wheels facing where the goblins will be. Then they surely will have to climb over the cart if they do not run around it.” With this, final preparations are being made to create a secondary wall with the carts to give cover for archers.
For Shepherd Veirax:
well, shore nuff can help yas there though I be not big er strong; can adjust my tactics as needed; with all you big folk around, I doubt any will be lookin to hard in the shadows fer one little guy likes myself;
<jumps down to help with the wagons> we could dig some pits too n fill em with sharp stakes, but wouldnt want any of our folks in a hurry ta step on em; would have to hide em to be effective and we havent really told anyone about it so; might not be a good idea; but I read about some really big pits with spears in em used in a battle a few centuries ago; a failure against trolls, but gave some hill giants a pain in the foot <chuckles>
Ava thanks Sgt. Maetthere with a sweet smile, and slowly turn around. Then moves to the trees to climb and hide in the trees and wait for the attack.
Ava thanks Sgt. Maetthere with a sweet smile, and slowly turn around. Then moves to the trees to climb and hide in the trees and wait for the attack.
Lady Janas melts at his kind and gentlemanly words.
DM Spoiler
** spoiler omitted **"You are good company and I feel safe beside you. As for weapons my family have taught me all I need to know about the bow and the sword." She shows the Shepherd her well made shortbow.
"However I shall provide a modicum of light which will dance about the gates. It will cover a 50ft circle and can be moved at will by me. The kind of light spell you mention is beyond my ken."
"Lastly by the way, I do not intend to die just yet and I have faced far worse than a pack of goblins. This daughter of the Harturi will survive but my fears are for those hiding by the gates. They are in far more danger."
Veirax smiles ruefully at the charming lady at his side. "Had the Far Walker granted me a bit more wisdom, I should have known that you would have a few tricks up your sleeve, especially since I forget that your youthful eyes do not betray your years. Hail you from Hrafn Hrani Isleif, by any chance? Please forgive me if I seem to make light of our present circumstances... I find this an easier to prepare for the dreadful and the inevitable..."
"The calm before the storm, so to speak..."
Spoiler for DM:
"I can talk with you, friend Veirax. My family do not come from Hfani, we are city dwellers. But for yourself tell me of this church here and your reasons for braving the wilds, please."
Lady Janas keeps one eye on the movements of people around her and naturally begins to check and clean the fletchings on her arrows.
"It would help to pass the time."
Ava thanks Sgt. Maetthere with a sweet smile, and slowly turn around. Then moves to the trees to climb and hide in the trees and wait for the attack.
Ava, if you prefer, there are also tall grasses around the river to hide in if you would rather stay on the ground.
For Shepherd Veirax:
It is a cold, dark night as you wait. The hidden moon gives no clue on when it will reach its zenith. You are aware though, that the pyre will be lit soon.
Ava decides to hide on the wall walkway, with her bow at ready.
"I can talk with you, friend Veirax. My family do not come from Hfani, we are city dwellers. But for yourself tell me of this church here and your reasons for braving the wilds, please."
Lady Janas keeps one eye on the movements of people around her and naturally begins to check and clean the fletchings on her arrows.
"It would help to pass the time."
"You know, of course, Lady, that I too have elven blood. From my youth and into early adulthood, I followed in my human family's footsteps and led the life of a shepherd, wandering the lofty meadows of Mord Mottal with my goats. I was a natural. One day, the village elders introduced me to Gwydion Halden, Esteemed Pathfinder of the Far Walker. After asking me a few questions and conferring with the village elders, the Esteemed Pathfinder determined that I demonstrated the potential to become a great servant of Fharlanghn, the Far Walker. Since my 25th birthday, I have become not only a shepherd of goats, but a shepherd of people as well.
"Also, Gwydion taught me that I have the skills and attributes required to become an ambassador not only among men and elves, but among the other peoples of Rutania as well. This helped me understand my exact place among the peoples of the realm, for I must confess that up to that point, I felt a little bit lost and unsure of myself; and to that end, Gwydion and his brethren in the order of the Far Walker further broadened my mind by instructing me in the tongues of dwarves and the 'walking devils' that we may face tonight.
"I am proud to have been selected by Gwydion and my village elders to walk the path of the Dweller on the Horizon. I believe it to be the path truest to Kagen Ru's intentions. It is the Far Walker who reveals the path out from the darkness and towards the light of Pelor, at sunrise. All roads, and all faiths, lead to Kagen Ru... and the Far Walker maketh the roads that all faiths follow to their source. In his wisdom and with his open mind, the Far Walker maketh few enemies among peoples far and near, human and other... for all folk, good and evil, walk their own paths, and he walketh with them. He protects noblemen, commoners and poor folk alike along their journeys, and provides an escort and spiritual nourishment to those who would travel great distances, through territories both peaceful and hostile. He is humble, as are his shepherds. The Far Walker judgeth not, but seeks to understand, to build bridges between peoples and cultures. And thus, his servants are often called upon to mediate between parties to a dispute.
"I'm sorry... can this be anything but boring to you, Lady? Will you tell me of your own upbringing in the city? I have never lived in a city, and am surprised to learn that some elves would spend most of their lives there rather than in the great forest... Although I prefer to maintain my optimism and to believe that my earthly journey will not end on this night, I do take comfort that, if I should pass away, that I will have left a piece of me with you, and that my story will be known to you..."
"You have found your place in life. That is rare and to be treasured."
Lady Janas unconsciously runs through the syllables of her favorite spells. As she thinks on his words.
"Mine is a tale of riches to rags. Its not pretty and has left me with little optimism. The Harturi family is now as small as it can get. Me. And a title."
DM Spoiler
Then Lady Janas stares across at the movements of those trying to hide. She looks out of the corner of her eye at the Shepherd.
"I would not be surprised to find that the problems of this place, the goblins attack and planning of some callous mind are together in some way. I doubt that mere goblins would launch a full scale attack with such deftness, without clever forethought."
"Erian and its mines must be a tempting prospect for someone."
Lady Janas pulls out a waterskin and drinks lightly from it. "We will need to watch out for the more reckless. My hope is that my charms and illusions will cause enough havoc."
Finally Lady Janas pats at her waist belt. "This potion heals, should I fall."