Seeing that Gilraen's wounds are largely tended to, Ceol rejoins the main melee. "We need to fight our way up the stairs, to confront whatever presence the Lady has sensed above us."
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Seeing that Gilraen's wounds are largely tended to, Ceol rejoins the main melee. "We need to fight our way up the stairs, to confront whatever presence the Lady has sensed above us."
*hears Mulligan*
Bjorn, thanks for your help - could you report back and if necessary ask the other group to hold in place? It may be that after all we will be the ones needing you to guard our backs.
Form up, heavily armoured types in front - as soon as you reach a place where there is line of sight to the enemy for archers and mages, give us a call and we will be there at the run.
And while I share your concern for the Lady, Sir Thoroncir, be sure to remain at your post this time - there is little you can do for the wounded save sigh soulfully over them, and we have some whose capabilities are more to the point. *grins affably*
"Let's go!" Deor's ire is up, his juices are flowing, and he's ready to take the fight to the enemies.
Gwaelur stands at the ready. The more necks to cleave, the better.
Bjorn does something that does not appear to be casting or herbology and clears the remains of Gilraen's wounds. He replies to Gil-Gandel, "I will indeed, blow loudly on your flute if you need help. Listen for Merry's horn if we do."
The Dwarves take the middle with Ceol to the left and Thoroncir to the right and the rest fall in behind to go up the stairs.
Ceol Gwaelur Bitur Thoroncir
Sala Deor Gilraen Rorimac
Gil-Gandel Ithilneth Mulligan
DRINDOLETH
As they push up the stairs, they are met by dozens of ghouls and a gang of wraiths. This is an ideal place for Rilthol though. Gilraen shouts, I will destroy the greater ghouls, Ceol try to turn the lesser and the rest can get the wraiths.
On quick count Thoroncir identifies 6 wraiths in all.
The room the stairs lead to is a regular octagon in shape and roughly 40' across. The wraiths are spread around the room but behind the ghouls.
I will Faerie Fire five of those wraiths. another +2 To Hit against them for the next 20 (!) rounds, and follow up with archery against any targets that offer themselves.
Deor's wand should come in handy here. He'll take special care to avoid burning the house down.
Thoroncir is determined to make these foul creatures pay for the injury inflicted upon his beloved. His gleaming sword rises and falls with deadly effect as he attacks the wraiths. Elendil!
Ceol presents his longsword (which is also his holy symbol), as he focuses his faith. "In the name of Eonw, begone!"
Deor quickly draws his wand from his sleeve, shifts his staff into his right* hand, and follows Gwaelur into battle, waiting for an opportunity to blast a ghoul.
*He's left-handed.
Rorimac will go after one of the wraiths where as Mulligan will provide support with chalcedony bullets.
Gwaelur joins the fray, axe slicing through anything he can reach.
Gilraen destroys all but 1 of the greater ghouls with her bauble blazing and the Rod of Kanotir held aloft.
Ceol destroys 10 of the lesser ghouls, leaving only 6.
Sala remarks, “Probably another good time for Gwaelur to use his magic helm.” He proceeds to swiftly slice up a ghoul near him and attacks the on to Ceol’s left. The first dies before striking and the second dies after failing to hurt Ceol.
Gil-Gandel casts Faerie Fire on 5 of the 6 wraiths.
Thoroncir slices through a lesser ghoul and engages a wraith. The wraith hits Thoroncir and causes 9 point of chill damage but he resists the feared drain of such creatures. Thoroncir strikes with Cirist and does great damage to the fearful foe. (40 points).
Deor sends sheets of flames from the tip of his wand at the ghouls in front of Ceol and Gwaelur. Both die in flames.
Bitur chops down his ghoul with the first blow of his axe and steps up to a wraith with shield ready. He bashes the wraith’s grasping arm with his magic war shield and chops into its undead flesh with his battle axe. (29 points)
Gwaelur stomps over the burning ghoul and attacks the left wraith. Axe and Shield drive the wraith back a step. (50 points)
Mulligan sends a pair of Chalcedony stones flying, the first drops the ghoul closing in on Rorimac and the second injures the Wraith closing in on Drindoleth.
Rorimac strikes this Wraith with both his Dnedain sword enchanted against Wraiths and Kksal bane. He swiftly hits from the right rear flank 3 times. When the Dnedain sword bites the Wraith screeches in pain.
Drindoleth is to wise to attack a Wraith with bear claws or bare hands and leaps and rolls back down the stairs and changes back to human shape to be ready to cast.
Ithilneth sends 4 +2 arrows at the Wraith and all 4 hit. The final arrow drops the Wraith as it was turning to grab Rorimac.
Wraith ____ Wraith
Greater Ghoul
Wraith Wraith Wraith
____ Ghoul Ghoul Ghoul Ghoul
Ghoul Ceol Gwaelur Bitur Thoroncir
Ghoul Sala Deor _ Gilraen __________ Ghoul
__________Gil-Gandel Ithilneth Mulligan Rorimac
_________________________Wraith
DRINDOLETH
Gwaelur again uses his Helm of Brilliance to cast a Light Blast toward the wraiths and ghouls.
Ceol will swing at the ghoul to his left with his swords, before advancing on to the rank of wraiths.
Thoroncir grits his teeth against the chilling pain of his wound, but strikes again and again at the wraith until, he hopes, it is vanquished. He will then advance with Bitur and the rest of the battle-line, if they're ready, against the Greater Ghoul.
Would his beloved, the Princess, now care to sing...?
Rorimac will flank around the side of Thoroncir to lend support. He will also light up the ring BELETHIL against the undead arrayed in front. He does not fear the wraith ability to drain his life and wants to make sure they drop before anyone else suffers from it.
Mulligan will continue to provide support with her sling, but will be keeping an eye out on any entrances to warn if enemy support is coming.
Gilraen commands the last greater ghoul to begone and it collapses to the ground a pile of rotten flesh and bone.
Ceol sees the nearest ghouls were finished off by Sala and can surge ahead immediately to aid Gwaelur. Gwaelur's helm blazes again and does 28 points to all the remaining wraiths. Ceol strikes with his short sword first and finishes off their wraith. Which is good as the second is swiftly on them and attacking Ceol. It hits easily and does 12 points of chill damage and only Ceol's faith in Eonw protects him from worse.
As Ceol and Gwaelur meet the final wraith, Deor sends another sheet of flames at this foe. Gil-Gandel sneaks one +3 arrow into the foe just before his view is too blocked. The final wraith rips at Ceol and he has now taken 23 points of chill damage. Then Ceol and Gwaelur slice and chop him down.
Bitur's armor and fast moving shield proves too much for his wraith. Before a minute passes he has hit it soundly 3 times and destroyed it.
Thoroncir looks to be facing two wraiths at once when Gwaelur's blast of light staggers his first foe enough to give him an opening to finish off the heavily injured wraith. Then Rorimac appears glowing as brightly as an Elf of the Light. Rorimac strikes twice into the second wraith's left flank and diverts him from Thoroncir. The wraith misses the frightful Hobbit and then dies as another Chalcedony stone flies true from Mulligan and Cirist and both of Rorimac's blades strike him down.
Wraith ____ Wraith
Greater Ghoul
Wraith Wraith Wraith
____ Ghoul Ghoul Ghoul Ghoul Rorimac
Ghoul Ceol Gwaelur Bitur Thoroncir
Ghoul Sala Deor _ Gilraen __________ Ghoul
____Gil-Gandel Ithilneth Mulligan
_________________________Wraith
Drindoleth
A door bursts open to the right side and the first greater ghoul to enter is met by arrows and a stone and dies before it reaches the party.
There are more creature beyond this door.
"Deor, if you have a web, across the door to give us some time." says Rorimac
Ceol shivers for a moment as he attempts to recover from the chill touch of the ghouls. "Yes, if we can buy ourselves a moment to regroup and reorient ourselves, rather than let them attack our flank, it would be a good idea."
Ithilneth will put a Protection from Evil on Mulligan. And then keep her bow at ready.
Done.Quote:
Originally posted by CatInASuit
The knight-errant says, "Once more, Rory and Mulligan, you prove yourselves most estimable hobbits. Thank you, and well done!" He tries to ignore the bone-deep chill of his wound and hefts his longsword and shield, watchful, and ready to advance upon whatever dread foes await beyond the door.
"estimable" whispers Rorimac to Mulligan.
"I think that means in high estimation"
"Oh good"
"Ithilneth, my thanks for the protection", responds Mulligan to the Elf.
Deor whirls, draws his hands quickly in front of his body across the opening of the door, and breathes in relief as his sees the ther part and the webs melt through, barring the passageway. "That won't hold them for long! Quickly, reform the lines!" Deor himself will back away from the door and ready his wand.
Gwaelur is ready for whatever awaits them.
The large room has 4 doors in all. Deors Web has sealed off the one for now.
Doors are shown with the 3 squares and where the Blue Web is. As mentioned the room is roughly 40 across. The stairs come up in the middle.
____/\
___/__________________\
__/_______PARTY________\
_/________ PARTY________\
/__________PARTY_________\
|___________==___________|
|___________==__________Webbed
|___________==___________|
__________==___________|
|___________==___________|
|_______-________________|
_\______-________________/
__\______-______________/
___\______-____________/
____\________________/
As the party forms back up, the other 3 doors open. Ghouls, greater and lesser are coming from every direction.
Gilraen will turn those to the south as they are furthest away. She destroys 5 greater ghouls in that doorway.
Seeing Gilraen destroy the ghoul's to the south, Deor whips around to the north and blasts away at the ghouls to the north with his wand. "'Agni Fastu!' Come and meet a son of Rohan, beasts of the grave, and find your rest!"
Thoroncir maintains the battle-line, keeps his shield up and hacks at any ghoul so foolish as to come close. Elendil!
Alas! my Helm of Brilliance is spent. Axe only it will be!
It's spent? Ithilneth may have another Greater Light to recharge it.
Ceol works with the other meleers to form a front wall. He presents his holy sword in an attempt to turn the undead as they approach, before beginning melee. "For Eonw! For Rohan!"
More bow-work if we aren't looking like getting swamped, but if we need another fighter to hold the line then I will evoke a set of Mirror Images (2 - 5 images, duration 15 rounds) and go to sword.
"Archers and spellcasters form around the stairs while the front liners form a circle shield wall around them. If we're going to taking attacks from all sides, at least let it be on our terms!"
Yes, alas, it is spent as I used it in the room from which we just came...Quote:
Originally posted by Pleonast
"Oh now this is getting ridiculous", mutters Mulligan. She will be keeping an eye out for anyone in trouble and then assist them, otherwise she will be watching and shouting out where the enemies are and anything the party needs to be aware of.
Rorimac will use the ring to its fullest trying to light the room and bring fear to the undead attacking instead of the other way around.
Ithilneth proceeds with the Greater Light to recharge the Helm of Brilliance. She will then use her bow until either she runs out of arrows or our outer line is breached, and then use her sword and knife.
The room is brilliant with light from Rorimacs Ring and Gilraens Bauble and Rod. It is bright enough that Cirists glow can barely be seen.
Sala started forward to hold a door but pulls back on Biturs command.
Deor realizes his best bet is to stand behind Bitur, Gwaelur or Rorimac and send flames over their heads.
Thoroncir of course positions himself to protect Gilraen.
Ceol is able to turn and destroy 3 lesser ghouls to the south. Mulligan lets loose two more stones and drops two lesser ghouls to the south.
Combined with Gilraen, this leaves the south door sparse of ghouls at least. Only 1 lesser ghoul is entering.
Gwaelur, Bitur, Sala, Ceol, Rorimac and Thoroncir are not enough to protect the spellcasters but Drindoleth steps up again as an uber bear, grabs a dead ghoul and hurls it the left door to slow their progress and stands ready to rip them apart. He lets out a huge roar that makes even the dead halt for a moment. Drindoleth is large enough to shield a sizable portion of the western side.
Gil-Gandel hopes he has made the correct decision and begins firing +3 arrows to the north. He targets the lesser ghouls to reduce the numbers coming in. He hits 5 times and drops 4 of them in all.
Ithilneth uses her 3rd level spell slot to recharge Rilthol with a greater light once again. She is down to 2 1st level spells now.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
In all 8 greater ghouls and 21 lesser ghouls are on the party. Gilraen makes life easy by destroying all of the greater ghouls with her commanding prayer, "A Elbereth Gilthoniel o menel palan-diriel, le nallon s di-nguruthos! A tiro nin, Fanuilos!"
A fresh blast of light from Rilthol does 23 points to all 21 lesser ghouls and destroys them all! It is a great weapon vs. the lesser undeads with the aid of the spell casters.
After the light clears, Mulligan looks round to see what is left? Does that include the undead behind the web?
A few of those caught in the web were blasted by the light. So that was another 3 lesser and one greater ghoul injured but still trapped. Gilraen will set this restless dead to its peace. Beyond the web is probably several more ghouls.
Ceol looks from door to door, alert for any more undead on their way. "Well fought, indeed, my friends." He gives Gilraen a quick bow.
Deor will catch his breath, steady himself, and prepare to attack the remaining ghouls if the archers can't finish them off.
"I think it's time we disable or bar the non-webbed doors for now in case reinforcements come in. I'll take the north door; Gwaelur, take the west; and Mulligan, take the south. Any others who have mechanical inclinations are welcome to help."
"Thank you, my lady, and well done!" Thoroncir says. He is impressed anew by her pure spirit and remarkable effectiveness in vanquishing the undead.
"Good idea Bitur", replies Mulligan who heads for the door. "Come on Rorimac, just in case something decides to come through while I'm locking it."
Gilraen is pleased she can be of aid. "The ghouls, the walking dead, they have no fair spirit in them, no spark of life, they are wholly infested by evil. The wraiths though are something else. Evil but with the cunning of men and some memories of their life."
The doors get slammed shut and spiked. They can be barred from this side and the bars are handy.
Though we've done pretty well so far, I don't think it's wise to continue until we're exhausted here. Maybe we should retreat back to the other group and check in, to make sure that they're equally fine, and continue in a group, rather than split up this way.
"Keep an eye on the webbed door in case anything else tries gets through", says Mulligan. "If you want I'll go back and check with the other group although it would probably be best to try and keep this room here."
I agree with our good Wizard. We undertook to guard these stairs and we have done all that and more. While the other group is looking for trouble, we should not. Off you go, Mulligan, and stay out of trouble :)
Mulligan finds that the other party has fought a major battle in the back most prison cells and found a horror of dead bodies stacked as food or perhaps recruits. They rescued the Captain of the keep who was hiding under the bodies. He is badly wounded and sick but alive. Bjorn has already stabilized him but he would be happy to turn him over to Gilraen instead. They have one more place to check, a wine cellar. Then they will join you to clear the rest of the keep.
Thoroncir is appalled by these grisly discoveries, but all the more determined to clean out this nest of foulness and evil. He will be especially watchful for any threat against his true love as she goes about her healing duties.
Mulligan is quite happy to relay the news around
Depending on how long we're resting here, Ithilneth hopes to recover her spells.
December 17th around 6:30pm:
So the party holds it position and surprisingly the undead also seem to hold. It is no more than 10 minutes and the other party has completed its sweep of the fort. They discovered two things of note in the wine cellar. A cat was hiding within and the wine cellar was somehow blessed in a way that no undead entered it. The cat is quite pleased to continue hiding in the wine cellar for now.
Gilraen brings the Captain back to fair health with a few spells. She also has healed Ceol and Thoroncir to full.
The Captain describes a series of tunnels that connect the seven towers of the fort underground from the inner ring wall. http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b1...lsNewRuins.gif
Lindar and Meriadoc think we should clear the keep itself and then break into 6 groups to flush the tunnels and summon the horseman to guard the outside. We should move swiftly to make use of the remaining daylight hours.
Any objections? If not we will need one messenger down to the riders and we should break into 4 groups to sweep the keep. Leaving one down here to hold the main floor.
The recommended groups are:
Gilraen, Thoroncir, Bitur, Mulligan, Ithilneth, Sala
Ceol, Deor, Gwaelur, Gil-Gandel, Rorimac, Drindoleth
Mirgol Mage & Elf of Light, Elfstan Fairbairn Treasure finder, Hlf Dwarf warrior and engineer, Meriadoc & Lindar Elven Bard
The 4th guard group: Haldreng Paladin, Bjorn Druid, Felyahin Elven F/Th, Bren Ranger, Nico Archer, Capt Mun and Captain Karzin (Keep).
'Alas!' Gwaelur thinks. 'A warrior's work is never done. What I wouldn't give for a loaf of bread, a slab of cheese and a mug of ale!'
"My axe is ready!" he exclaims out loud.
"Would a cup of water satisfy you instead?" offers Ithilneth.
No objections here to the stated plan. The light will be gone soon.
Looks good. Let's press on.
Meriadoc asks, "Could Deor relay a message via Folca?"
"Yes, if someone out there speaks Hawk. Or maybe, if I can coax her in a window and tie a message to her leg..."
Meriadoc says, "Lets find a window then."
Ceol bows to Gilraen after she heals him of his wounds. "Once again, I am in your debt, o fair Princess of Gondor."
He is in agreement with the plan for sweeping through the keep.
Thoroncir echoes Ceol's words of thanks to Gilraen. He offers his writing kit with its pens, ink and paper for writing a note to tie to Folca's leg.
Mulligan and Rorimac are happy with the groups and ready to move on as required.
The 3 groups set out the 3 doors. The south door leads to the entrance to the keep and thus Deor, Ceol, Gwaelur, Gil-Gandel, Rorimac, Drindoleth are sent that way once the message is written. The swiftest way up is the west door and Meriadoc leads his group out that way. This leaves the north door for Gilraen, Thoroncir, Bitur, Mulligan, Ithilneth, Sala.
Deor's group find no resistance to the front door and get it open with ease. Deor summons Folca and dispatches the orders to the Sea Knights.
They will jog up the road once a signal is given from the top of the keep. That signal will indicate that Mirgol is at the top and ready to support the unmounted riders on their way up.
Anyone that is in trouble should immediately call for help.
Meriadoc & Mirgol's group is charges with clearing the top two floors and roof of course.
Deor's group the rest of the bottom floor.
Gilraen's group the 2 middle floors.
The web is expected to last for hours unless burnt or cut through.
One last thing, Bjorn offers Gwaelur some excellent mead at least in place of Ale from a magical honey golden cup and Elfstan offers up some cheese.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Deor, Ceol, Gwaelur, Gil-Gandel, Rorimac & Drindoleth begin clearing and locking room after room on the main floor. They follow the hasty drawing of the keep that Capt. Karzin made. They find a single ghoul gnawing on a stray arm until they get to just outside the room that is webbed. It is swiftly and easily killed.
Are there any special plans for this room? You will be able to be aided by the guarding party in the central room.
Gilraen, Thoroncir, Bitur, Mulligan, Ithilneth, Sala make it to the stairs securing two doors on the way. They ascend without resistance and begin going through the 2nd floor. The layout allows for simple and fast work. The hallway run as six spokes off a small hexagonal central chamber. Down each hall are 4 rooms, 2 per side for a total of 24 rooms to clear. As the ghouls smell strongly of decay, Missy or Freyja can easily identify which rooms have ghouls inside. No wraiths are found and three single lesser ghouls were discovered and dispatched by Gilraen. One room had a group of 3 lesser and 1 greater ghoul. Gilraen destroyed the greater and arrows from Ithilneth and stones from Mulligan softened the 3 ghouls before Thoroncir and Bitur attacked. Cirist made quick work of one as Axe and shield dropped the second. The last ghoul beat itself against Bitur’s plate armor as Cirist ripped into its undead flesh and killed it.
The 3rd floor awaits Gilraen’s group.
Gwaelur vows not to think out loud in the future, though he does thank his fellow fighters for the offers of sustenance.
"A stray arm"? Not from us, naturally. Is there anything special about the arm? Maybe a ring? Is there anything else in particular in this room?
"On to the third floor, then, my friends, if you will," Thoroncir says, pleased to be a part of such a small, diverse but nimbly capable group, and inspired as ever by the presence of the lovely Gilraen.
"Well, if those in the middle room can see through the webs, it might give us a bit of an advantage in facing whatever lies within." Rorimac is holding up Kkhosal's Bane to see strongley it is glowing.
"Undead everywhere and not a piece of treasure to be found, I wonder what might be above?" queries Mulligan. "Let's go and find out shall we?"
The blade shines strong but not too strong. Clearly undead are near but not especially strong ones.
Is it just go in and clear or do you wish to coordinate with the other group on the other side of the web?
Let's get help if it's available. We've lost too many today as it is.
Ceol nods to Deor. "I agree, my cousin. The foul undead in this place seem to be endless...let us be cautious."
(Deor, Ceol, Gwaelur, Gil-Gandel, Rorimac & Drindoleth)
Plans go back and forth swiftly. Bjorn's group will burn the webs, let them burn for 2 rounds and then he will suppress the fire. Bjorn will warp wood on your door through the burning webs to let you know it is time to come through and attack and to make it easy to knock the door down.
The room contains 3 greater ghouls and 6 lesser ghouls.
Gwaelur breaks the door down and Ceol turns the lesser ghouls destroying them as Rorimac & Gil-Gandel charge the greater ghouls. Drindoleth crawls through the doorway grabs one ghouls himself and begins to tear it apart. Rorimac and Gil-Gandel swiftly drop on Great Ghoul but the ghouls both hit Gil-Gandel for 12 points of damage. One of the few times he has been injured.
From behind Rorimac, Deor's Burning Hands injures the last greater ghoul.
Ceol joins them against the last ghoul and they make short work of it as Drindoleth finishes off his own.
The flames are quenched by Bjorn and his group quickly finishes off the burnt ghouls.
The groups meet very little resistance in completing the clearing of the tower. At the end they meet back up except for a guard posted at the top. Gwaelur is requested to go to the roof where Mirgol will charge his helm.
The Riders are being summoned and the best elven archers should be on the roof with Mirgol. The rest of the group is down below spread from front entrance to center hall.
We now need to plan to break the groups into 6 assault parties to flush the tunnels and outer towers.
Here is the list of the people here.
Gilraen, Thoroncir, Bitur, Mulligan, Ithilneth, Sala
Ceol, Deor, Gwaelur, Gil-Gandel, Rorimac, Drindoleth
Mirgol Mage & Elf of Light, Elfstan Fairbairn Treasure finder, Hlf Dwarf warrior and engineer, Meriadoc & Lindar Elven Bard
Haldreng Paladin, Bjorn Druid, Felyahin Elven F/Th, Bren Ranger, Nico Archer, Capt Mun and Captain Karzin (Keep).
Any suggestions on how to divide up or do we just let Meriadoc make the call?
"You know me," Gwaelur says. "Whatever wiser heads decide is fine with me."
Ceol thinks. "Ideally, I think each team should have at least one who is strong in melee, one who can attack from range, and one who understands magic. I don't know if we have enough of the latter to go around. I wish we had enough to send a healer with each group, too, but I *know* we do not have enough of those."
Every group should have a someone with mechanical--or at least basic engineering--ability as well, in case we encounter any traps, which means Mulligan and other treasure hunters should probably not be with the dwarves, depending on how many people with these abilities we have to go around.
Thoroncir has nothing to add to the suggested dispositions; he would obviously prefer to be in Gilraen's party, but understands it might not be possible.
December 17th around 7:00pm: Trying to spread out the spell casters, healers, treasure finders, engineering types and undead slayers. Each group heads to a tunnel entrance. The tunnels will be too tight for the huge bear forms to fit. All will march single file.
Meriadoc, Nico Archer (lock smith), Bjorn Druid, Capt Mun Ranger type
Meriadoc is the most skill fighter, can use his bow underground and has an undead slayer and many attacks and fears no undead. Nico is stuck with swords and has a small chance to open locks and deal with traps, Bjorn is a powerful Druid and has many additional powers & Mun is scared but fairly good with his scimitar.
They enter their outer tower, head up first to ensure the tower is clear and then will move through the tunnel towards the ring wall and ring tunnel. They make good progress and cleave through a small horde of ghouls.
Gwaelur, Haldreng Paladin, Ithilneth, Felyahin Elven F/Th
Gwaelur takes point using Dwarven abilities, Haldreng has his Holy Sword ready to help, Ithilneth & Fely bring up the rear in support. Gwaelur has one blast available if things get hairy. Haldreng of course can try to turn.
Gwaelurs group is attacks from the rear as they head up their tower. Felyahin holds the stairs as Haldreng destroys the lesser ghouls. Ithilneth sends some arrows down to support Fely. Gwaelur is left to guard the front. Fely is using a parry blade to fend off the attackers as he slices into his foes. The first greater ghoul drops. Haldreng again destroys additional lesser ghouls. Fely is untouched and with the help of Ithilneths arrows drops a second greater ghoul. This could take a while but the party does not appear to be in danger. Then an even greater ghoul launches itself down on Gwaelur but he was ready and bashes it with his shield and chops with his axe. He is keeping it at bay thus far. Rilthol is lighting the interior stairway. The ghoul was followed by 4 lesser ghouls, Haldreng pivots and banishes them for good. Gwaelur exchanges blows with his foe and thus far is untouched. The 3 greater ghoul drops below Fely and Ithilneth has already put two arrows into the next foe. Haldreng pivots again and more ghouls fall. Fely has dropped the last greater ghoul and Gwaelur drops his tough foe but not before its chill touch did 14 points of damage . The group heads up with Fely constantly checking behind. The tower is all clear and then descend into the tunnel.
Bitur, Deor, Mulligan, Ceol
The toughness of the plate armored Bitur with Deor ready with spells & wand and Mulligan to help out. Ceol guarding the rear.
They reach the top of their tower swiftly and descend into their tunnel. They are unopposed until they reach the ring tunnel that is wider and 8 tall. Bitur and Ceol face left and right with Deor and Mulligan between them. Do they wait for another group to reach the ring or head one direction or the other?
Thoroncir, Gilraen, Gil-Gandel, Sala
The tough Sea Knight take the lead with his undead slayer protecting our best undead turning. Gil-Gandel provides bow support, sword support and of course treasure finding and spells. Sala as a slightly nervous rear guard.
They are also attacked as they head up their tower but Gilraen destroys the greater ghouls and the rest make short work of the lesser ghouls. They enter their tunnel and fight their way through it. The first two ghouls are cut down and then a larger force of mixed ghouls and a wraith attack all at once. Gilraen blazes and destroys the 4 greater ghouls but Thoroncir is pressed hard by a fearful wraith. Klthalion is warm at his side as he is hit 6 times for 24 points He feels chilled and a rising fear but hits 3 times and does 88 points to the wraith. Gil-Gandel sends 3 arrows +3 arrows into this foe 41 and the wraith wavers and begins to dissipate. Gilraen destroys the lesser ghouls and this leaves but one foe, a fearsome ghoul greater than the others. Thoroncir feels himself slowing down, strangely weary. The ghoul attacks and strikes twice and this time Klthalion is not enough. Thoroncir goes down paralyzed and down 50 points in all. Gilraen shrieks as Gil-Gandel sends arrows into the ghoul and Sala moves past the three to defend Gilraen and Thoroncir. The ghoul goes for Gilraen who backpedals. Gil-Gandel can barely avoid her and loses and opening shot but Sala gets to the front. His swift Rapier begins to slice into the undead flesh as he fends off the fiends claws with his magic spike. Gil-Gandel puts 3 arrows into this foe and Gilraen begins to pull Thoroncir back. It takes another minute but Sala and Gil-Gandel drop this foe. Gilraen cast Cure Serious wounds and gets Thoroncir to only 7 points. She needs to use Athelas to cure his paralysis. This will cost them time.
Hlf Dwarf warrior and engineer, Mirgol Mage & Elf of Light, Elfstan Fairbairn Treasure finder, Bren Ranger
Hlf is very well armored, our second most experienced fighter, loves tunnels and is a fully trained engineer, Mirgol provides undead turning & great spell powers and a cat that ghost fear greatly, Elfstan is their treasure finder and Bren a strong rear guard.
This group blows through the foes and makes it to the ring tunnel nearly as fast as Biturs but pretty much on the opposite side.
Rorimac, Lindar Elven Bard, Drindoleth and Captain Karzin (Keep).
The Hobbit Undead fighter, The Elf skilled at melee and good thieving skill and some healing spells, The Druid is more spells and the Keeps Capt to try and protect their back.
Their tower is clear and in the tunnel the fight ghouls. They find a slightly wider part where Rori and Lindar and fight nearly side by side vs. a single ghoul. They let the ghouls come to them. Rori takes 6 points and Lindar 7 points but both are immune to the paralysis. They might be here for a while.
"It seems pretty risky to proceed without the support of the group. Maybe Mulligan can scout ahead, Invisible?
If my group is pressed hard I am quite happy to melee with a Mirror Image to help me. I have several castings available and little better use for my magic against such foes.
Sir Thoroncir had lost consciousness from the pain and shock of his wounds, and he now struggles back to awareness, his mind overcoming a still-lingering fear of the great ghoul. With difficulty at first, he focuses on the lovely Gilraen, kneeling at his side. As he sees the concerned expression clouding her matchless features, a wave of relief and joy nearly overcomes him. He takes both her hands and kisses them, whispering fiercely, "Thank you, my love, thank you! Yet again by your healing touch have you warded off the cold and irrevocable grasp of death, that I might spend even another moment with you, and that we might someday share a life together, if it be Eru's will. My heart... my life... my very soul are yours, dearest one, now and forever. Thank you!"
Invisibility is little advantage against those that either live in that shadow realm or smell life. Same problem with Illusions.
Sadly Thoroncir can only think the words strongly as his mouth will not respond in his paralyzed state. But he realizes he smells crushed Athelas and already feels better. His love should soon cure him.
In that case, if we're in deep trouble and Thoroncir is still down I will trust to my two splendid swords aflame, and my nice fancy new shirt, and general all-around elvish coolness.
Sorry. I read that paragraph to indicate that she had already cured his paralysis.
Mulligan ponders for a little while. "Ok, you lot stay here for the moment. Freyja go that way, let me know if there are any undead. I'll go this way. Back in 5 minutes or sooner if we find something. Invisibility won't help, but two silent cats might suffice. We'll try not to attract too much attention."
Rorimac is enjoying the battle with new friends at his side, striking left and right to bring the undead down.
Meriadoc, Nico, Bjorn, Capt Mun
Meriadoc & Nico stand facing left and right in the circular tunnel sending arrows flying in each direction. The ghouls cannot make it through this hail of arrows and drop steadily.
Gwaelur, Haldreng, Ithilneth, Felyahin
Gwaelur is hacking his way through the ghouls. Haldreng is close behind him with his Holy Sword ready to help. They are slowly but surely nearing the T intersection that is the circular tunnel under the wall.
Bitur, Deor, Mulligan, Ceol
Mulligan gets to the curving T in passage just behind Freyja and finds it opens up much wider. She smells the dead before she sees them. More ghouls and they appear to be 2 types of ghouls. Through Freyjas eyes and nose, Mulligan spots roughly the same going the other direction. At this point all is clear and she hastily backs up though for the moment. It appears the group to the left and the right are delayed. (This would be Gilraens & Gwaelurs groups.)
Advance or hold?
Thoroncir, Gilraen, Gil-Gandel, Sala
Gilraen heats a small bowl of water and seeps the fragrant kingsfoil in it. She adds a pinch of this and a leaf of mint and a dash of some odd ash and gets Thoroncir to sip the brew with the bowl close to his nose. She completes her cure with a gentle kiss to his forehead. Within seconds he feels the pins and needles sensation in his hands and feet and soon he can wiggle said. Shortly his voice works again.
Sir Thoroncir soon feels the Athelas's powerful effect, and his paralysis fades. He gives voice to the words he first intended, and kisses Gilraen's hands. Heedless of Gil-Gandel and Sala nearby, she leans down and kisses his lips, saying quietly, "You are more than welcome, my dearest Thoroncir. As you have saved my life so many times, so too am I glad to save yours! Now rise, my love, if you are able, and take up your sword and shield, for our foes in this dark place are not yet wholly vanquished." (Written by EH)
Thoroncir indeed feels ready for battle again and none too soon, Gil-Gandel is now engaged with the first ghoul with Sala supporting. Gil-Gandels swords flame up and he drops a pair of lesser ghouls and but is about to confront a greater. Sala stabs past Gil-Gandel and gets a single strike into the foe for 13 points of damage at least.
Gilraen stands and turns at the sound of battle and steps towards Gil-Gandel, she blazes with light and commands, Trouble no more this land of Middle Earth, A Elbereth Gilthoniel o menel palan-diriel, le nallon s di-nguruthos! A tiro nin, Fanuilos! With that the greater ghoul collapses and begins to fall apart.
Gil-Gandel hear the sounds to the right of what must be Hlfs party fighting. She then hears Warrior snarling and everyone hears Khazad Dm!
Does Gil-Gandel press forward, hold or step back?
Rorimac, Lindar, Drindoleth and Captain Karzin
They continue their fight with the front pair doing well destroying a ghoul at a time. The Captain keeps an eye to the rear.
Does Drindoleth do anything?
Ithilneth encourages her companions, "Let us press on with vigor so that we may rejoin others soon." She will continue with the bow so long as it's effective, switching to her sword if need be.
Thoroncir, feeling much better, arms himself immediately and steps up beside Gil-Gandel. He is ready for action once again, determined to do his duty, his heart filled with love for the beautiful princess.
"Hmmm....Our friends are delayed. We have to help them if it's not too late. Unfortunately, it would be unwise to split up, so we can only aid one of the groups. Mulligan, do you have a recommendation of which way we should go based on what you scouted? I will mark our spot here so that any of our group who show up later will know we made it safe and which way we went."
"I agree, Bitur, we should not split up, but we should, indeed, do what we can to aid." He glances one way, then the other, attempting to use his ability to detect evil to sense if either way is more seriously threatened.
"It's the same type of group heading in either direction, so do we go and backup Gwaelur's group or Gilraen's. I think Gilraen would have less trouble with the denizens here, so I think we should probably go and help Gwaelur's group. Let's drop a note and then go ambush some undead."
Meriadoc, Nico, Bjorn, Capt Mun
Meriadoc & Nico stand facing left and right in the circular tunnel sending arrows flying in each direction. The ghouls cannot make it through this hail of arrows and drop steadily. Meriadoc tells Nico and Mun to hold the passage and he and Bjorn will start pushing to the left. Shout if they need help.
Gwaelur, Haldreng, Ithilneth, Felyahin
Gwaelur is hacking his way through the ghouls. Haldreng is close behind him with his Holy Sword ready to help. They are slowly but surely nearing the T intersection that is the circular tunnel under the wall. Haldreng identifies that the next 4 ghouls are lesser ghouls and calls upon Enw to destroy them. Gwaelur rushes forward over the corpses and at the T intersections finds that 4 greater ghouls had held back. Felyhin calls for him to push them back so he and Haldreng can join the fun and let Ithilneth use her bow. He does think Rilthol might help here.
Bitur, Deor, Mulligan, Ceol
Turning to the left the four make for the ghouls. Bitur and Ceol lead the way with Deor ready to help over Biturs shoulder and Mulligan and Freyja watching the rear and looking for sling stone opportunities. They know it is nearly 80 yards from tunnel spoke to tunnel spoke. After only 30 yards they find their foes. Ceol calls upon Enw and destroys 7 lesser ghouls leaving a greater ghoul for the party to destroy. Bitur attacks right after a stone finds the foe and then flames leap over Bitur to burn the ghouls face and shoulders. It beats uselessly against the Dwarven Mail and then dies. A loud groan is heard and more ghouls come into view. The fight is on.
Thoroncir, Gilraen, Gil-Gandel, Sala
With only ghouls to face, Gil-Gandel presses forward, knowing Gilraen is there to handle the greater foes again. Indeed the ghoul turn and race off away from her light. The 4 reach the curving T-intersection swiftly. They see the ghouls are racing off in both directions.
Rorimac, Lindar, Drindoleth and Captain Karzin
They continue their fight with the front pair doing well destroying a ghoul at a time. The Captain keeps an eye to the rear.
As they march forward, Lindar is singing an Elvish song; Rorimac comes to realize it is the lay of Erendil. He had forgotten for a moment he fully understands Elvish now. Belethil shines brightly and the ghouls appear to be at a disadvantage in its light. Rorimac & Lindar are each hit a few more times and Rorimac is down 19 total and Lindar is down 22.
They at last reach the T-Intersection.
"Nice work all, here comes the second wave." Mulligan's sling whirs trying to whittle them down before they reach us.
Depending on Drindoleth and how Lindar is feeling, Rorimac does have some healing potions available if necessary. Is it quiet at the T-Intersection?
Are we underground? If we are, and the walls are stone or earth, Deor can bring out the Fireballs again.
Meriadoc, Nico, Bjorn, Capt Mun
Nico and Capt Mun hold their intersection as Meriadoc is dropping all the ghouls heading towards Rorimac and his group.
Gwaelur, Haldreng, Ithilneth, Felyahin
Gwaelur uses Rilthol to drop most of the ghouls around him and then feels a wave of heat and flame hit him that Rilthol largely protects him from. He takes but 11 points of damage. This also dropped the last ghoul to his right. Gwaelur pushes out to the left and Haldreng swiftly join him. Ithilneth is behind Gwaelur ready with her Elven Bow. Fely is guarding the right passage. As the fighters begin to drop the remaining ghouls Fely and Ithilneth hear the unmistakable sound of Bitur charging towards them.
Bitur, Deor, Mulligan, Ceol
Deor uses his Ruby to sends a max damage Fireball of 77 points behind the front line far enough back to allow for extra flames to not engulf Bitur and Ceol. This sends up a horrible smell and much smoke but leaves all the ghouls dead for a long distance, at least 40 and probably a bit more. Hopefully no friends were in its path. The flames actually lapped back to Deors party as a wave of heat but no damage.
Bitur and Ceol make short work of the one remaining ghoul and speed down the corridor looking for friends or foe. Deor realizes he needs to be careful using Fireballs in tight passages. Freyja sees that a few ghouls are coming from behind the small group. Mulligan picks off the first two with a pair of stones. But she will need to call back her fighters or have Deor launch another fireball. Then Mulligan sees
Thoroncir, Gilraen, Gil-Gandel, Sala
Gil-Gandel & Sala will hold the intersection and Thoroncir and Gilraen will pursue those fleeing left. None come from the right having fled. Thoroncir and Gilraen over take the slower lesser ghouls and Gilraen dispatches them with ease. They hurry on. Soon enough they overtake a pair of greater ghouls and Gilraen dispatches them. Her blazing light is visible to Freyja and Mulligan at this point.
Rorimac, Lindar, Drindoleth and Captain Karzin
They continue their fight with the front pair doing well destroying a ghoul at a time. The Captain keeps an eye to the rear. It seems like an endless supply of ghouls are keeping this group in it defensible point just into the intersection. Drindoleth does a cure light on Rorimac for 6 point, he is now down 13 and then on Lindar for 5 but Lindar takes another hit and Lindar is down 21. Over the din of the battle they suddenly hear the voice of Meriadoc the Magnificent singing of Tom Bombadil of all things. Rorimac takes great heart from hearing his father approaching. Lindar swiftly adds his voice to Merrys and the ghouls actually look perturbed if possible.
A short time later the passages are all clear. Folca reports via Deor that the Sea-Knights and men of Raj are winning the battle of those ghouls fleeing out of the final tower. Lindar orders the swiftest elves to follow him out the final passage and when they emerge with Mirgol in their midst the battle outside is short indeed. The remaining party members sweep the tunnels once more and after 10 minutes dispatch one last ghoul hiding in a tower. At this point the swords that detect undead go out.
The battle is won the Fort retaken. What are the next steps?
Meriadoc calls for a large meal to celebrate. Bjorn is prepared to grow large crops in the farm areas for the townsfolk and the feast.
A feast sounds good. In the meantime, Thoroncir would like to look over the fort more closely with a treasure-finder or two, seeing if there's anything of value, of historical interest, or both. He will also ask Gilraen for some of Missy's food, and will find, feed and (if possible) befriend the cat in the wine cellar.
Fair enough, but the treasure is well claimed by the remaining residents of the fort. It would probably be best not to loot the place.
Harrumph. Who said anything about looting?
First of all, Ceol will take a few minutes for a prayer of thanksgiving to Eonw, for the group's triumph over such a large number of foes. Then, he will assist Gilraen as needed in seeing to the injured. As he moves through his comrades (both old and new), he gives congratulations and words of encouragement and praise for their efforts.
If Meriadoc is calling for a feast, who are we to say him nay? And with delight on hearing him singing of Tom I shall gladly join in. I hope there is drink to be had, for I hear the Master-Emeritus can hold his wine... or maybe his Brandy. :LOL:
Deor has a couple tricks up his sleeve regarding drink. He'll spend a few minutes with his books preparing the necessary spells.
To clarify, Thoroncir wants to see if this horde of undead has anything interesting, historic, valuable etc. among its effects. He won't touch anything with his hands without Ceol or a wizard saying it's safe.
Rorimac and Mulligan will do a sweep of the undead now completely dead and see what they turn up.
Were the undead created from people at the fort or are they more ancient creatures which were bought from afar to attack this place?
The greater creatures were not from here. This was a simple Fort and Village of Raj until a few days ago and then the haunting began and then the Undead rose up and overwhelmed the fort. These horrors brought little but a pair of Evil Swords & Evil Cloaks. The cloaks are shredded. An Evil Minor Ring of Power, Wand (Lightning enhancements), Magic Belt gives +10 spell points for mage. It appears the lesser ghouls were somehow raised mainly from the local dead and they were in the process of making more ghouls.
The village is mostly intact but the fort is in terrible shape. Most of the troops are dead, The Captain has but 12 men left of a force of 107. In the end most of the villagers survived. The villagers prepare a large barn fire on the northwest side of the village. There is much debris to clear. All told it appears that a Lead Wraith Cleric/Mage led over 20 Slave Wraiths, 4 very strong ghouls, 48 Greater Ghouls & 169 Lesser Ghouls. The bulk of the slave wraiths were destroyed by Gilraen during the ambush. The leader was killed by Meriadoc's party in the dungeon. The ghouls were slowly destroy through the hours of fighting. Doing a perimeter ride around the hill it appears all the undead were found and destroyed or they ran far away.
This night during the barn fire the party this is the sight that greets the party.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b1...untedTower.jpg
Bjorn decides to use plant growths to enhance and grow the local crops and several more to enhance the trees of the woods that will be used to rebuild the fort. In this way he ensures there will be more trees when they are done than there are now.
The fort can share well from its larder sadly having only about a tenth the men to now feed.
Mrgol plans to casts a dig in the morning to trench out a 5’x5’x50’ grave pit.
Is that sight a good omen or a bad omen?
Either way, I guess our next job will be to trace back the ghouls from whence the came and deal with the source.
Meriadoc says, "No lad, our job is to meet the King and escort him safely to the King of Raj. Those undead will have to wait, this is war now."
"If no one's laid claim to that magic Belt, I'd love it."
Otherwise, Deor will help investigate the leavings from the Wraiths to try to determine more about their origins and intentions.
Thoroncir, still wondering about the reasons for the sheer scope of the undead onslaught, will help Gilraen or whoever else in the party needs it.
If agreeable, carry the belt for now but let's hold on the division of treasure. Bjorn will similarly carry the Wand of Lightning Enhancement if no objection.
Gilraen says, "I think the moon is ill omen and we should stay on alert. Keep at least one of those swords of detecting undead ready all night. As to the reason for the undead assaulting this fort, I think the Master Wraith brought his immediate followers a few weeks back and raised the army of ghouls somehow. The bigger question is was this fort an isolated assault and they had the good fortune of us passing in time or is this happening at small villages across the kingdom of Raj. Let's hope it is the first. Gil-Gandel, Capt. Mun, Lindar, Rorimac and Sala we need to learn if this hill or area has any old legends of haunting or if this is new."
Deor working with Thoroncir and others determine that the greater ghouls appear to be local to the region but archaic in garb from maybe a century back. The lesser ghouls appeared to be local and all dead within the last 20 years. The Wraiths left little trace though the little they left are ancient, hundreds of years old at least.
Mrgol is worried that all the undead and dead must be buried and a ceremony completed over the graves. Gilraen is the best one to do the ceremony. She agrees pray for said.
Oh well, let's get prepared for an interruption tonight, and then bury what's left in the morning.
Should we pile all the remains in one place (with weapons moved or hidden elsewhere), the easier to blast or ignite them en masse if they're somehow reanimated overnight?
Deor, comforted by the sight of the moon over the plains rather than unnerved, will simply prepare for bed. It looks like night over his home, and nothing more.
Somehow, I think gathering all the bodies into one big pile from the entire fort, might be too big a job for tonight.
If something attacks, something attacks, hopefully, we will know it is coming before it gets here. I just hope they don't send any dark, evil, magical and unseen assassins to try and cause havoc in the camp. They might cause us more problems. ;)
(Fast update)
Healing of all is done before sleep. Two more local riders are sent out for help. The night actually passes quietly.
In the morning all hands pitch in to drag bodies up to the sunlight. Mrgol digs a long trench with her Dig spell. She asks to borrow the belt just for the day to dig two more.
People pitch in an lay out the dead and cover them. Seeds are sprinkled over all the mounds and Bjorn asks Drindoleth to grow the flowers. Gilraen performs a Ceremony of Sanctification. The small army is ready to move out.
Any last minute anythings?
No last minute anythings for Mulligan or Rorimac. Both ready to be on their way.
As is Thoroncir. Have the people of the town now returned and settled back in?
No last minute things here, either.
Ceol will volunteer to assist Gilraen with the Ceremony, as needed. Otherwise, he is ready to go.
December 18th, FA64 Army of Suza Rij arrives at 10:30 am. The Kings Escort leaves at 11:30am. Gilraen and the Paladins spread Simbelmyn seeds that Bjorn grows into a snowy cover to the graves. The group hits bypasses the first town but visits the lake around 3pm. It is fresh water, shows signs of crocodiles, antelopes & a local large cat. It is a rainy afternoon. A bit later a 16HD Air Elemental attacks with 3 12HD. The lancers charge, the Hand to hand people form a wall and the mages Magic Missile and Fireball. It is a very fast battle. Mainly lancers and mages doing the damage and no injuries. The group moves on past the other town and heads north. Ride until late dusk. Camps about where the red dot is shown. Should reach Dravoon tomorrow. At which point, Bjorn will fly out to find the King. Perhaps Drindoleth will join him?
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b1...arharad2-1.jpg
December 19th: The party heads out and expects to reach Dravoon by noon.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b1...nofDravoon.jpg
Meet Colonel Marn and 200 warriors of Raj. Also supporting is the Mage Olarvi Min Hetori. Capt. Mun knows Col Marn very well as he runs the town but has only heard of the Mage Olarvi. Capt. Mun will go up to citadel to report in and check things out. Bjorn reports there is something slightly off about the Mage and Warrior thinks Marn looks enspelled. It might be nothing to worry about but towns have not proven safe thus far.
Capt. Meriadoc calls for a quick meeting of the two northern parties and Linwen. "How can we best scout the town and see if everything is as it should be?"
Bjorn will do a flyover shortly. Linwen will send scouts in including herself. Elfstan and Fely are willing to scout using their treasure finding skills.
Interesting. Can any of our magic-users unnoticeably figure out if the Mage Olarvi Min Hetori really is ensorcelled?
If the party favors a direct approach, Thoroncir is ready, willing and able to enter the town and have a look around.
Mulligan looks slightly disappointed that no-one has asked her to go look around the town while invisible using magical spectacles to spot all the magic which should or perhaps should not be there. Not to mention, she could do it without the invisibility?
Oh while looking at the good Colonel Marn through specs, how did he look?
Actually Meriadoc was looking for volunteers. He did not ask for them specifically but hoped the treasure finders and Druids would be willing to spy things out some how.
Col. Marn appears to be enspelled in some fashion, but of course you cannot tell how.
Of course, Mulligan will volunteer, oh and relate the fact that the Colonel was definitely enspelled as well. By what spell is a question for someone more practiced in the arts?
Ithilneth knows a few charm effects. Perhaps she could borrow the magic spectacles for a quick look at the Colonel?
Naturally. This isn't my area of expertise, but I'll do what I can, and strike up a casual conversation to try to delve into what these two have been doing lately.
A conversation I'll gladly join - I'm no authority on spellcraft, naturally, but if the good man's demeanour reminds me of some enspelled figure of legend and lore, perhaps that would give me some insight worth sharing, and if not, it might make him feel less as though he is being quizzed by Deor.
Ceol will also volunteer to participate in a conversation with the mage and the colonel -- between his abilities to detect evil and detect lies, he might be able to help with puzzling this out.
As for the town, Mulligan will be quite happy to look around, not using the ring and see what is going on.
If there is anything you think she should look at in particular, please let her know.
So the scouts set out as Ithilneth, Deor, Gil-Gandel & Ceol engage the Colonel and Mage Olarvi in conversation. Mulligan needs the spectacles for the scouting but between Ithilneth and Gil-Gandel's experience with charms they should be able to figure things out. As the conversation starts though, the Mage looks off into the sky and says, "We must make haste back to town, excuse us, their is a small problem needing both of our attention. Come Colonel we best move it at a gallop."
Ceol finds that the Mage is not quite lying but is at least deceiving for some reason. Gil-Gandel and Ithilneth and nearly certain that the Colonel is under a glamour of some sort and probably a charm type spell.
The scouts see the town is set up for an ambush for any entering it. The main street in has archers and crossbowmen lining the roofs and troops ready to rush out to bottle up their foes.
During scouting, did they notice any sign of another way of entering the town to avoid the ambush? Or any weak points in said setup?
Ithilneth wonders aloud. Perhaps direct confrontation is not the best course. There will be too many lives lost in the town. Is there some way we could capture the Colonel and/or deglamour him?
Hmm, if most of the troops are setting up ambush towards the main gate, Mulligan is definitely interested in scaling the back wall and getting into the town. If there is no magic around, then climb invisibly and go and look around. I suggest setting up for lunch at the bottom of the hill.
"A few things spring to mind, the town is just trying to protect itself, perhaps the soldiers are being duped and do not know if the evil has crept into the town, or the entire town is compromised."
We have a fair number of members that can scale the walls stealthily and we can arrange for a few flyers that can incapacitate many of the defenders with sleeps type spells. But the duped soldiers does not seem unlikely at all.
The beginning of Meriadoc's plan was to ride in after our stealthy people were in place. Have the 3 wizards flying and come in fast and sleep the soldiers on the building and Bjorn will use a variety of powers to confuse and overwhelm the soldiers waiting in ambush. Drindoleth could hopefully do the same to some degree as another flying. Finally Haldreng (paladin) would charge across the rooftops on his flying horse to further sow confusion. Meanwhile Linwen is charged with taking out enemy mages and necromancers. The rest of the spies are to find the Colonel and free him of the charm spell. Lindar (Elf Bard) can use a find object to locate his sword or armor at a 12" range. We expect to find him and other captives in the citadel.
There is only one entrance to the town.
What improvements can be made? Or what alternatives?
Mulligan thinks for a while
"Perhaps our Captain would like to wait to find out how many people are in the town, what spellcasters they have and their location and what traps they may have set up before riding in. Just on the off-chance that, you know, they have a pet dragon up one sleeve, or the front entrance is rigged with all sorts.
Next, how many people can Dispel Magic or failing that can Deor charge a Sling stone with it. On that note, I still have a couple of smoke screen globes left, which will cause no end of confusion.
If anybody have a large packet of sleeping herbs, I can spice up any meal being served to the troops. Far more effective than a sleep spell. We might also want to decide how to directly target the main leaders in the town, if we can compromise their officers, the main soldiers will normally surrender at that point."
Deor can not put a dispel magic on a stone.
Drindoleth considers Mulligan's questions.
"I can dispel magic and have a large collection of herbs. Between all of us pooling our skills and resources that part seems more than feasible. If we want to directly target the main leaders in the town, however, getting someone inside stealthily would be the best course."
I think confronting the ambush with force is a huge mistake. These are our allies, and it might even be better to be captured than to ruin this hard-won alliance with the Raj. I would rather simply confront the confront the guard at the gate and ask them why they're preparing to ambush us; after all, we've got no bad intentions. As distasteful as detection magic is here in the South, I would willingly submit to magical questioning. I have nothing to hide.
I could add a little something to this: if the layout of the ambush appears as though they wish to lure us into town before attacking, then those of us who are stealthy could infiltrate as per the plan already mentioned, while the rest of us head for the gates in all innocence, with me out in front singing to announce our arrival. Then once I'm close enough to be clearly heard by those at the gates, I can change my song to one of Bardic Charm, which has the happy circumstance that it can affect any number of people within earshot. On average nearly half (40% with the aid of my Harp, though anyone possibly affected is allowed a saving throw, which low-level fighters will fail in droves) of them might prove susceptible. The theme would be something along these lines:
Behold us, your trusted friends who here return in triumph!
Let your songs of victory and joy with ours be blended:
Join us in celebration and clasp the hand of friendship,
Sing with us and dance before the gates we have defended.
--which I can deliver quite fluently in the local language. And which, as those of our ambushers who know of by reputation at least, is on the whole true... possibly to the extent of meriting a saving throw penalty for them.
Once a number of our would-be ambushers have left their positions and are intermingled with us, not only will they be uncoordinated for their intended ambush but they will be getting in their fellows' way, which may scupper the plan altogether. What's more, if they are not wise in the ways of Elves or bards generally - and we're not exactly common - many of them may not even realize that I have done anything in particular. Though some of the more savvy among them may recognise an old Jedi mind-trick Bardic charm, but that's a chance worth taking.
"Gil-Gandel's plan is a wise one. Though, I think the better armored among us should lead, with Gil-Gandel right behind. That way we can put up a quick defense should one be needed."
I still think that stepping into the ambush is a foolish idea; there's no sense in hurting those who ought to be our allies. That said, if the party really wants to proceed this agressively, I'll slip on my ring as the attack begins and try to stay out of the way. If Mulligan and I can evade capture through invisibility, we might be able to spring a jailbreak.
Thoroncir says, "Gil-Gandel's plan is a sound one. I favor sending in invisible scouts before we carry it out, though, in case there is more here than meets the eye."
"How about this," says Rorimac, "Let's break for lunch here, it is midday or so and it would take a while to get up to the town. Let them sweat a little while waiting for us. After all, a hobbit's got to eat sometime. While that is going on, let's get some people inside and reccy the place now and if they ask, we will be up to the town mid-afternoon. Judging by their reaction, I would guess one of our flyers got spotted."
"That is an astute observation, Rorimac," agrees Ithilneth. "They may be organizing defenses against our airborne watchers."
Meriadoc says, "Well we have no consensus at all and your point about injuring or killing innocents is well taken. I am leaning towards Gil-Gandel's solution though. We have three powerful Bards here and a several Mages and Druids. We do need to make a decision though."
"I would strongly prefer to not injure or kill innocents, as well. I suspect that there are a small number of actual villains involved here, and whatever we can do to unmask them while minimizing bloodshed would be my preferred course of action."
Drindoleth says, "Of our options, Gil-Gandel's suggestion may be the safest for all involved. If they are on watch for fliers, it might be dangerous to try scouting or getting inside further that way. I agree with Thoroncir that sending in invisible scouts before we try Gil-Gandel's plan might be best. None of us want the blood of innocents spilled today, but between our Bards and magic we may be able to avoid it entirely."
Invisible scouts, prepare yourselves, then, and as for the rest of us, let us be about it - indecision is not going to make us any safer. Those who are going ahead, be sure to watch out for any who might look as though they have the ability to detect you. Good luck, all.
"Time to get moving then", grins Mulligan. "Give us an hour's head start at least, just in case there is more to this than meets the eye. Rorimac?"
"Oh, I'm ready, although it's a shame to miss lunch", replies Rorimac with an equally broad grin. "Anyone else?"
With no ideal plan available, Ithilneth will agree with consensus. "Let us hope the most good comes from it."
As the scouts prepare to depart, Ceol will say a prayer for a successful mission.
Thoroncir echoes Ceol's prayer. May the Valar smile upon our undertaking.
Ok, Mulligan and Rorimac will head for the city. Freya can wait here, talk to Missy and give a general idea of the situation to Gilraen. They want an hour's head start and if anyone else wants to come along say now. We could do with one person who has Dispel Magic, who wants come along for the infiiltration and we can try and keep you safe.
We promise not to burn the town down as a distraction again.
"*Again*? I suspect that this is a story which I do not wish to hear." Ceol gives Mulligan and Rorimac a wry smile. "Be safe, my friends."
"I'll accompany you," says Drindoleth. "I just hope we can manage all of this as peacefully as possible."
The various stealthy people head out, some individually and some in teams. Elfstan joins the other two young Hobbits along with Drindoleth. Drindoleth won’t be able to scale the wall though and will need to use either a rope or turn into an eagle.
Fely will scramble over the wall on his own relying on stealth and not invisibility. No one is sure about Linwen’s plans but she and her scouts will be inside scouting.
Lindar likes Gil-Gandel’s plan and will add his voice to support it. Gilraen will also join in that should give them a small bonus.
The Hobbits reach the wall they plan to climb. Elfstan and Mulligan head up first planning to drop ropes for Drindoleth and Rorimac. As the reach the top a lightning bolt comes blasting at Elfstan, he dodges but takes [color=red]15 points.
Horns go off sounding some sort of alert.
What does Mulligan do? What does Drindoleth and Rorimac do?
"This is what happens when you use invisibility and not rely on stealth", mutters Mulligan under her breath.
Can Mulligan see where the Lightning has come from and if any guards are running to this area?
As this is supposed to be stealthy, Rorimac resists the urge to notch an arrow and waits at the bottom of the wall.
Mulligan cannot see where the lightning came from but does see guards heading for the section of wall the Hobbits are at.
If the guards are coming, then they can flounder around here for a while.
Speaking down the wall, "Rorimac, get your cloak out for cover. Drindoleth. Catch", and turning to Elfstan, "Drop down the wall, the guards are coming, we won't get everyone over before they turn up".
She starts hastily descending.
Elfstan moves quick to do so.
The parties hear horns going off in the town of course. Folca reports the lightning bolt to Deor where the Hobbits were going up.
Drindoleth pales a bit at the lightning. They were lucky no one was spotted and hit with that while flying over the wall, as such a fall would stand a high chance of being fatal. He catches the thrown ropes and considers what plants are growing along their side of the wall. If there are already brush or trees present, he can use Plant Growth for an overgrowth to hide where they are. Or to see where they retreat to.
At least Drindoleth and Bjorn are protected from lightning and all but immune to it.
The walls are well clear of brush of course. This town is as much a border fort as a town. Retreat should not be too tough though. The mage was probably not too close and the guards are not sure what to look for. Speed is probably the best idea now.
As she gets to the bottom of the wall, Mulligan turns to the others with a grin, "Fly, you fools".
Then lacking any brush, Drindoleth makes a hasty retreat!
As the party runs, the Hobbits in their cloaks or invisible spread out a bit and make haste back to the party. When the much larger Drindoleth is no more than 300 feet from the wall another bolt strikes him. But his Protection from Lightning simply absorbs the 32 points of damage. This time the caster is seen though as he is on the wall.
In short order finely made arrows strike him until he dives over the wall to escape. He has 3 arrows in him but drifted to the ground.
Thoroncir, his helmet off and under his arm, cranes his neck and peers intently at the town walls to see what's going on.
"Ok, that went not so well. Let's try this again with no invisibility and a little bit of natural hobbit stealth and cunning."
Elfstan says, "Problem is we still carry many magic items. I suspect it would unsafe to try even stealth without removing all of them. That seems like a bad idea to me."
Mulligan replies, "Only one way to find out what they are looking for. Stay here, I'll be back shortly to see if I set off an alarm somewhere further around. I've never tried climbing in specs before. If there is a detect there, hopefully, I can spot it before I set it off."
Mulligan quickly realizes the entire wall is somehow enchanted. This could be a variety of things, but it was mentioned that Linwen's prior attack made this entire kingdom very paranoid. Thus the founding of the 5 schools of magic by the Kings.
Mulligan's smile becomes a really big grin and the eyes start to gleam. "A challenge", she whispers to herself.
Heading back to the others. "Ok, Elfstan you're right, the entire wall is magic to the base. Going over without any magic is going to be the only way. I somehow doubt they would let us in throuigh the front gate."
"I'm still going to try going over. Rorimac, can you hold onto these for me, seeing as your not letting that sword out of your sight." She passes across her magic items.
The wall will require three Climb Wall rolls to ascend. Without your items you chance drops significantly. For every 10' you drop you will take a d6 damage. Also without the Elven Cloak and Boots your hide in shadows and move silently drops to a much more pedestrian number though it is still excellent. Your armor class is pretty much 6/N without items. Even your movement drops. You're also down to some fairly minor weapons though Elfstan can at least hand you a normal sling to use.
Gwaelur, heretofore silent, will do whatever is needed of him.
"Mulligan...your courage is undeniable, but I'm not at all sure that this is a good idea."
Rorimac fixes a look at Mulligan and folds his arms. "No Mulligan, you are not going over that wall. After all that time we spent sneaking around, avoiding things like this, for you to decide that this time you want to try it out, well the answer is still no. We can't sneak into the city, you have no idea what is over there and what you will be able to achieve."
"Well, I won't know until I get over the wall, what I will be able to do."
"Mulligan, you can't free the hostages because you can't dispel the glamour that is on them. You won't be able to find them because they will be magically hidden like everything else in this country. There is no point spiking food on the grounds that everyone will be moving up in an hour, so they won't have chance to take effect. Think about it, there is little to nothing that you can do other than get captured and cause a headache for us all."
"I can spy out the positions of the ambush in the town and report back."
"I'm sure the army in there won't mind you wandering around finding out where they seeing as if they spot you, answers still no."
"Not even from the top of the wall?"
"You're impossible"
"Thank you, but if I can get just a peek over the wall, I'll be straight back down, I promise. No sneaking around the town, just a glimpse to see what is there and get some information, otherwise us being here was just a complete waste of time"
"I don't think the others are going to mind it being a waste of time if we come back in one piece."
"Please"
"Fool of a Took"
"Who, me?"
"Yes, you and fool of a Brandybuck for even considering it. Top of the wall and then straight back down."
"That's all, no other sneaking around. Promise."
"Don't make me regret this."
"I'll try not to."
"You have one chance to get up that wall. You fall, we go back."
"Understood."
"Let's go." Rorimac shakes his head knowing that he will probably regret it anyway.
So Mulligan tries the wall in a different location having the first target already on high alert. She successfully climbs the wall in the shade of one of the towers and starts looking around the town. Take a quick look to see if the has disturbed the hornets nest once again she sees something very odd going on. Men are running all over the place. Far more than 8 locations which is the most people that would be going over the wall. There are people without armor seeming to direct their movements and the soldier seem to be desperately looking for something they cannot find. Not only has no one noticed Mulligan, it would just be terrible luck at this point if they did.
Mulligan can just make out the soldiers waiting on the roof tops partially concealed near the only gates to the town. They are holding position and the gates are still open. Apparently they are still hoping for an ambush. Someone is riding out the gate as she watches. Overall the town seems empty of non-soldiers. The stores and houses appear to be shuttered up tight. But there must be over 100 soldiers searching the walls and many dozens waiting in ambush. Of course there are large sections of towns she cannot see at all being only 25' up. But the great mystery is what is causing the confusion on the walls.
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Well, there are not any guards in the vicinity, but she did promise Rorimac not to go wandering off. Mulligan thinks for a little while noting the positions and the trouble going on and then climbs back down the wall.
"Ok, I've seen what's going on. Let's go, there is a rider heading for the rest of the them and I have some details of their ambush."
A rider comes down from the town swiftly. He calls out, the town is under attack, we need your help. Please make haste, especially your spell casters. We think the attack is magical. Bren, the other parties ranger reports in a low voice, "He is neutral." Lindar, their bard reports, "But chaotic." Finally Mrgol reports, "He himself is not magical or enspelled and only his sword is."
"Clearly a trap," Thoroncir murmurs to Gil-Gandel and Gilraen. "We didn't walk right in when they left the gate open, so now they're trying to take advantage of our good nature."
I realize it's a violation of local norms to use magic to detect falsehoods, but I think we can risk it here.
Is Ceol able to detect any falsehood in the rider's plea for assistance?
Surprisingly no, no lie detected. Haldreng agrees.
Perhaps he has himself been deceived, but I think we should treat the call for help as genuine, and may the Valar ward the righteous. If things begin to look hostile without immediate violence breaking out, we always have our song and dance plan to fall back on. Let us go.
Captain Meriadoc says, "We should indeed stick to your plan and try the flying attacks that Mrgol, Bjorn, Lindar and Haldreng planned as support. This leaves Gilraen singing her song to support your wise Bard."
Lindar says, "Aye, and with any luck Linwen at least made it into the town and is positioned."
As he says this Fely returns at a run. "I failed and nearly was caught, but as they looked like they were coming for me, things got confused and the soldiers and mage types seem to send people in every direction along the walls. I think I saw something very odd though, it looked like a mouse climbing the wall about a dozen feet yards from me and the mouse appeared to be a very even dark grey colour."
Lindar says, "Soldier get you back in all haste and tell them we come swiftly. Keep those gates open and help shall arrive."
As soon as the soldier takes off Lindar asks for all the fighters under 10th level to gather near and gives a blast upon his horn. This gives all fighter types either 3 or 4 levels for a short time. "Let us rude swiftly now he says, the four fliers shall be behind you but ready for surprise."
The groups mount up and charge up the hill. Haldreng reminds them, leave the horse outside if you value them, in town they are likely to die. Though a few of you like Ceol and Thoroncir will probably be fine.
Any other prep besides Gil-Gandel's song? Time is now of the essence.
Deor will take his staff in his left hand and his ring in his right. If things go sour, he'll put the ring on and try to hide.
Ceol whispers in Leofwin's ear. "Let us show them how a Knight of the Mark and a proud horse of Rohan fight."
With a short prayer to Eonw for the party's success, he is ready to go.
With a loving nod to Gilraen, Thoroncir dons his helmet and takes to the saddle on his great warhorse Baygir. He draws his sword and sidles up beside Ceol, saying, "Let us go, then, as proud sons of Gondor and Rohan. May strength and honor be yours, my friend!"
Mulligan adds her report to those of Lindar, pointing out what she knows of the troops lying wait in the town and confirming the confusion going on.
After that, if the warriors are going to be going in ahead, she will stick close to the magic users
The party rides up close to the gate with the two part harmony as they ride.
Behold us, your trusted friends who here return in triumph!
Let your songs of victory and joy with ours be blended:
Join us in celebration and clasp the hand of friendship,
Sing with us and dance before the gates we have defended.
As they approach the men of the North and the South join in the song though not all know exactly what they are singing. Gilraens Song of Est acts as a counter point to this and then seems to strengthen it as the two fair singers wrap their melodies together. Lindars powerful voice joins to Gil-Gandels song as the music of his horn strengthens the hearts of 22 warriors greatly. Ithilneths voice and Mirgols voice and harp add much to the main theme. Indeed Gil-Gandel recognizes both are trained in Elven Song weaving. Then from Ithilneths shoulder the voice of Dulindar the nightingale joins in and stirs the hearts of man and elf. To Gilraens song, the voices of the 4 Hobbit join in, Meriadocs voice is surprisingly strong and Mulligans is sweet, Rorimac shares a fair voice with Merry and Elfstan is surprisingly good at harmony.
Thoroncir and Ceol surprise themselves and find them singing with the rest. Only the three Dwarves and Deor seem immune to the effect. Deor is lost in thought preparing his spells. Drindoleth can easily shake off the effect but sees little need to. Those nearest him do discover that Salas singing voice is poor. But thankfully he does not sing with gusto.
The war party comes close to the open gates and Mrgol and Lindar both disappear and from those few that can detect or see them, take to the air on their mounts. Deor was asked to sleep those on the left after Bjorn flies over them and Ithilneth was asked to sleep those on the right after Mrgols sleep goes off. Haldreng will be going after any evil leaders on the roof tops and Ceol is asked to look for the same on the ground.
Most dismount but not the Knights, they prepare to charge. Mulligan, Elfstan and Fely are asked to secure the gate tower. Do whatever you can to keep them from closing to swiftly and avoid killing if possible. It should be an excellent time for Mulligan to use her sleep, smoke and paralysis items. Elfstan figures he will work on the mechanisms as Mulligan holds off the guards. Fely will be there to help if things go sour. He is a good fighter and excellent defensive fighter. Probably second best to Sala for disarming and parrying attacks and far stealthier.
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As the party enters there is already confusion as the many of men of Raj come out to greet those entering as friends. Lindars voice calls out in their tongue, Stand up and say hello those foes of the necromancers and friends to the King.
Over half of those on the rooftops do stand up. Then Mrgol and Ithilneth sleep all but two on the right not waving and a Golden Eagle appears flying over the right appearing to cause men to become confused as he passed overhead. Most of those few still ready to shoot are slept by Deor and it leaves but 3 that Lindar appears and begins to attack. He calls out the 1st and 3rd are evil but the 2nd one is not. Haldreng charges into and seriously injures the first left on the roof; his great warhorse knocks the foe to the ground as he continues through the last man on the right. One arrow pierces his armor but them he is beating this foe with his sword and shield.
On the ground, the Dwarves each form the center of a shield wall for the three gaps with archers behind them. Rorimac, Sala, Bren, Nico, Merry and the men of Raj following split up to support the Dwarves. Ceol and Thoroncir charge down the road leading the knights. Drindoleth stays back with Hound to protect the spell casters.
A lightning bolt blasts down on Mrgol but appears to just ground out without doing damage. The caster though starts getting shot with arrows from 2 towers. It must be Linwens scouts. On another tower a man in dark robes screams in pain and falls face first 35 to the ground.
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There is fighting among some of the Raj defenders. There is fighting where the charge of the knights. Gil-Gandels song has probably done about as much as it can. What next?
"Elfstan, Fely let's go secure the gate tower." She looks round the the entrance to the tower hoping it is nearby.
The 3 stealthy ones find the gate tower door is open as some men are coming out of it to greet their friends. The three slip in invisibly. The magic detection seems to be going off full alert anyway so no longer and issue. Whatever Linwen did as overwhelmed their defenses on this front. It is short work for Elfstan to pop the lock on the door the gate mechanisms. The 3 duck in and Mulligan sees a pair of guards to deal with.
"Ok, Fely occupy and disarm the guard on the right, I'll use some sleep juice to knock out the guy on the left from behind. Elfstan make sure they don't raise the alarm."
It goes like clockwork, Just as Mulligan's knife goes in and the guard goes to sleep, Fely swiftly disarms the better armored guard and as a surprise Elfstan bops him on the head with the side of the sword and hopes for the best. Both guards are down fairly quietly and Elfstan goes to work on the gears. Spikes and his small hammer and some wire is put to quick use. Then one of the guard's swords is pounded into a strategic location. Meanwhile Fely takes a quick look at Elfstan's victim after tying and gagging him.
Mulligan sees that amid all the confusion the bit of noise they made is not a problem. Within a few minutes they are ready to move on.
"Shall we press on to find the Colonel? How long will our advantage here last?", queries Ithilneth.
Bitur suggests the shield wall and those it protects slowly and deliberately progress forward through the town.
Thoroncir is encouraged by the low casualties thus far. Of course he has no wish to harm the innocent or the ensorcelled. He will attack any who do not immediately show their friendliness, or who fail to yield to him upon command.
"Slow and deliberate progress has its place, but it might also allow our enemies time to regroup. If we keep moving fast, incapacitating enemies as quickly as we can, then we might be able to solve this quickly and avoid more bloodshed."
Rorimac will continue to provide support to the dwaves using his bow.
Now the gate is "fixed", Mulligan will lead Elfstan and Fely onto the next target.
Fely wonders, "Perhaps we three should come behind Bitur's foes from the tower. That could lead to a quick finish to that part of the battle. Would you be willing?" Elfstan looks slightly hesitant, how about Mulligan?
Near the front, is the only place the fighting is fierce and bloody. But the Knights have the upper hand as the defenders were planning for much support from the rooftops and three side alleys.
The rooftops are now clear. Lindar calls for the a little help, a few of us will try to tackle the central citadel. Haldreng grabs up Nico, Mrgol takes up Meriadoc and Bjorn is already in the air. The 6 fly off leaving the rest to subdue the main forces.
Deor and Ithilneth each drop a sleep spell to the front making the job of the Knights simpler.
Does Gil-Gandel go to swords, bow or other magic? What does Drindoleth do? Another eye in the sky might be useful.
Mulligan replies to Fely, "Ok, Let's see what is there and if we can lend support without getting into too much trouble. Besides, we have the tower to come back to if it goes wrong. If we can lend aid and stop the fighting early, we should. Let's lock the far door first though, so no-one sneaks up behind us. The other option is to ensure the walls are clear as well. Then again, sneak attacks appeal."
Rorimac will be very careful with his bow, looking to injure and incapacitate his opponents instead of outright killing them. They can survive an arrow to the shoulder, an arrow to the chest is a little more difficult.
Ceol nods to Thoroncir, as he continues to work on ending the combat, hoping to shed as little blood as necessary.