Dale in the Fourth Age: Session One, "DEWy-eyed novices"

Tom is almost bouncing up and down with excitement!
Only a while ago he was up to his ankles in a bog every day, earning just a basic living.
Now not only is he recognised as a Magician :cool: , but he's going to hunt Orcs with a splendid party.

Tom turns to Briagha. "We will do our best to track down these evil orcs and deal harshly with them. If we can recover any of your sheep, we will do so. We would enjoy some of your provisions, so we can concentrate on the hunt."
He adds "And if we are successful, with your permission we will introduce you to a noble Giant Eagle."

Briagha can't help smiling at Tom's obvious glee, however he tries to contain himself. "Well enough," she says. "I'll need to ask a fair price for as much cram as you care to carry, but I'll add a leg o' mutton to the deal. We've some ale I can sell you a small keg of too, likely not more than the big man there can carry."

She gives Bruno a tilt of her head to show what she means and adds, "Tales speak well of the Eagles from old days, but like I say, it'll be time enough to be friends when the blame's fairly proved. Till then -- If I don't see him near my sheep, I'll take it that the first warning was enough. But if all you say's right, then it's like I'll owe the creature an apology".

---

A day's worth of cram for the whole party will cost 1 gp in game terms, though actual gold is rarely seen hereabouts and most in-game references will actually stand for an appropriately-sized silver coin. You don't need to pay too much attention to this. The keg of ale she is offering holds a full gallon and is priced at 2 gp. The meat is free, but would benefit from being cooked and eaten within a day or two. Also Briagha is able to offer a small crystal flask containing a healing elixir that she took in trade "a while back", but she says it is worth 50 gp and she cannot afford to just write that off to passing strangers even if they are looking to do her a good turn.

The well has plenty of good water and you are welcome to all you are able to carry away.

Eli will dig into his bag and pay his fair share for the provisions.

Tom thanks Briagha for her offer of cram, ale, meat and the healing potion.
Like Eli, he is happy to pay his share.

Tom again reminds Gabe to cure his wound (and points out how useful the Curing spell is, since a healing potion costs 50 gold!)

Rowena draws nearer the others once Briagha speaks. The consensus to go after orcs alarms her; she's no fighter and what skills she has don't seem likely to affect such a creature. As she listens to the various vows and pledges, she feels a nagging doubt that she can't quite place. Certainly the promised leg of mutton isn't as appetizing as it might have been before seeing the poor butchered animal nearby.

And yet she can't ignore the fact that the incident triggers a sense of higher purpose that would certainly be fodder for a rousing tale or ballad. Hopefully it's just one of or two them, she thinks with rallying optimism.

She says nothing, except when leans in toward the shorter Hobbit and murmurs tactfully, "I think Gabe has already refreshed himself, Tom. He seems well enough, quiet though he is."

OOC: At the last count the Druid was 1 hp down after the night's rest, rendering a whole Cure right here and now possibly a sub-optimal use of his spell

Duly provisioned, the team heads more or less Eastward away from Tupsmead Farm towards higher ground where the grazing is less good. Arewe, backed by the not negligible woodcraft of Bruno, finds the trail one she is able to follow at a fair pace. You should decide how you are deployed as you head into possibly hostile country. Several miles ahead, the land grows hillier and rougher still.

Tom suggests that the party use the previous marching order (especially as it puts Arewe and Bruno at the front:

- Bruno and Arewe at the front
- Tom and Rowena in the middle
- Gabe and Eli guarding the rear

In suitable areas (e.g. open ground), Aster can look ahead.

Eli is a trained scout and is both willing and able to go out front.

OOC: trackers need to be upfront, Glee's looks solid to me.

Bruno says, "Let trackers track, keep casters safe."

Some hours later, as the party is following a trail which leads through a narrow gully as it winds towards higher ground, Aster (who is flying ahead) circles once or twice in a manner that suggests to Gade that it has spotted something unusual, then drops low to the nap of the earth and returns to its master. The gully is not very deep, but is steep sided. The ground generally is rough, dotted with bushes and some other undergrowth, although not exceptionally difficult to negotiate.

Bruno, "Who is stealthiest? Please investigate."

Tom quietly congratulates the trackers on doing so well in following the trail, then mutters to the party "This could be an ambush. If our trackers think they can pick up the trail on the far side of the gully, then we could unleash Eli (scouting ahead) to spot trouble. What do you all think?"

"A fair tracker and observant enough, I am, but stealth has never been my strength. I am pleased to allow good Master Eli to take the fore, and follow at some distance in his need."

Eli nods, says, "Then so I shall," and heads out.

Making his way with exceeding care up the left side of the gully and keeping to the shelter of whatever big rocks, bushes and so on that he can find, Eli creeps in the direction of whatever Aster was circling over before he dropped out of sight. His own breath seems to roar in his ears, but he controls it as best he can, aware of any number of loose stones, dry twigs and leaf-drifts from the last winter that might betray his presence with a single careless footstep, while his eyes search the landscape ahead with all the fieldcraft he can command. Here and there he notices a good place for a would-be assailant to skulk, had they the mind, and in one patch of furze that would barely conceal a large hobbit Eli spots something that brings him to a halt.

There, well placed to overlook the gully, the top few inches of a bent and strung bow can be clearly seen, and just jutting out of the lower part of the furze is a single iron-shod boot as far as the ankle, as though the wearer were knelt on that leg. Nothing more can be clearly seen. There is ample cover both to this side of the gully and to the other, Eli notes professionally, that might conceal more than this one waylayer. To date nothing seems to have noticed Eli.

Eli will carefully try to gain a new vantage point in order to see and learn more of what seems to be a bowman lying in wait.

While Eli is able to find one, he is unable to see more of the "bowman" or to find out whether there might be others present. He hears a voice in the furze mutter something in an ugly language that he does not recognise... but he is reasonably sure it is neither common, elven or Shiretalk.

(To clarify, Eli is on the higher ground to the left side of the gully -- making his way "up" wasn't altogether clear. So is the owner of the boot and the bow.)

Eli will withdraw, equally carefully, and go back to report to his friends and companions on what he has observed.

Rowena watches somewhat anxiously and states the obvious--that she hopes for Eli's safe return.

Although Tom asks Eli a reasonable-seeming question about what he overheard, Eli is unable to articulate anything recognisable (not that the mutter was especially clear anyway). The boot and the top of the bow would be about the right size and distance apart for something a little smaller than a Man, maybe, or even fully Man-sized but no more. As an old soldier of Eli's acquaintance put it only a few months back: "I don't say it was an Orc, for certain, but I don't say it wasn't, either".

You are presently on the floor of the gully with some cover screening you from where Eli saw the potential ambusher, but it's not too hard to climb out either to left or right.

Tom suggests two ideas to deal with the ambush ahead:

- 'area effect' spells (sadly Tom doesn't have any of these)
- if we have a second Stealthy member, perhaps Eli + that person could sneak back and attack from Stealth

He looks around for reactions...

"Druid Entangle?"

(Last I heard, someone was on at the druid to load all the cures he could. Too bad, this would indeed be an excellent set up for an Entangle)

Tom is sorry to hear that there is no Entangle.
However Cures are always needed (especially if only one party member can cast them) ... any other spell is a luxury.

Eli thinks for a moment and says, "I'll go back and sneak up on him and attack him, if I see clearly it's an orc or some other villain, if we have no better plan. Or... we might all just go far around him."

Shaking her head, Rowena takes a few breaths to calm herself. "It doesn't seem very... orcish, I guess... to lie in wait like that. At least not that I've heard," she admits. The tales she's learned, and those she herself has relayed to new audiences, tend to make the enemies far more brutish than crafty.

She feels out of her depth--as indeed she is. But she can't help her speculation. "Who would they be waiting for, do you think? If that's the the same orc that made away with the sheep, they'd be a day ahead of us. Maybe we should just go around to avoid him. Or them."

Realizing she's probably sounding like a coward, she swallows and tries to remember how a true adventuress would act toward an obstacle like this. "Anyway, whoever they are, I--I don't know if this would help, but sometimes... sometimes some songs I've played have been very good at relaxing people. Or maybe they just bore them to sleep," she adds with a nervous smile. "I could try that, if it would mean preventing Eli from risking himself alone."

OOC Apologies for absence!

Gabe is reasonably stealthy and carries a staff for times like these so happy to be part of a stealth group to outflank these bow wielding folk. Sadly no Entangle is available, carrying 2xCLW at the moment.

If Aster has not returned then Gabe will use a simulated pice of Bird song, understood by both him and Aster to mean come, intent on keeping the bird safe.

So what's the plan then? A non-stealthy group to continue up the gully while the stealthy flankers creep up the left side and try to flush out the bowman and any putative allies? Arewe says she is not stealthy, above, Bruno clearly is not as he is the heaviest-armoured of you, Tom has nothing but "being an unarmoured Hobbit" so far as that goes and might just as soon have the reassuring presence of Bruno close to hand if I'm reading this right.

Aster is already back with the group, but yes, any of the listed "Tricks" can be executed on command as long as the bird can either see or hear you and I am happy to assume that there is both a visual and an audible trigger for each of them so you can use whichever you want. They're all virtually impossible for a stranger to imitate, just as you might be able to tell that a shepherd had just whistled something that one of his dogs seemed to act on but you would never be able to repeat without a lot of training, and could well be mistaken for real animal noises. Anything listed as a "Trick" is routine enough that passing the signal is a Free Action just as talking to a team-mate would be, and the companion will comply willingly as long (in most cases) that it's not going into danger; an animal that is attack trained will go into action at least as willingly as a hound would against a wolf or bear.

Tom agrees that having a couple of Stealthy Flankers in position (to attack when the rest of the party appear) is a jolly good idea.
Personally he would like to advance directly behind the reassuring armoured presence of Bruno and Arewe (and no doubt Rowena will join him there...)
Tom informs the party that he will cast twice just before we make our 'entrance' - a personal protection spell (Shield) and 'Dancing Lights', which resembles a 'glowing humanoid figure' and can easily be moved up to 110 feet in front of Tom.
Hopefully this figure will both draw fire and reveal any other ambushers to our Stealthy Flankers.

If Rowena has a suitable song, that would be great too.

So Tom looks for comments and approval of this plan:

- Eli and Gabe creep ahead stealthily and take up positions to attack ambushers
- Tom casts Shield, then Dancing Lights (Rowena is most welcome to sing at this point)
- the Dancing Lights rush forward (and the Stealthy Flankers act when they like)
- next round the remaining party of four appear with missile weapons and spells at the ready

Bruno is prepared to advance but hates the idea of being a pincushion.

"I can join Arewe and Eli," Rowena says slowly. "I've crept up on a few... strangers." She decides swapping 'drunk pickpocket targets' for 'strangers' is probably a good idea. "You know, as a lark, to, um, startle them. Point is, I'm not bad at being quiet. And if my song can send the orc, or man, or whatever-it-is to relax and even sleep, wouldn't that be safer to do early on? Rather than risk a bunch of us walk in there together?"



OOC: Rowena wants to take her +6 stealth bonus out for a test drive.

aside: I believe that was "Gade and Eli", since Arewe says she is not especially stealthy (although neither is she massively armoured; beginning with a really good bow costs a fair bit of scratch).

A few seconds after she finishes her sentence, Rowena corrects herself. "I'm sorry, not you, Arewe. I mean Gade, or.. Gabe." The druid speaks so strangely, and almost reluctantly, as if beings other than animals or plants are hardly worthy of address. She'd like to get to know him, because a better character for a myth or fairy tale she couldn't invent.

Well, yes I could, she defends herself proudly. But not one based on a real live person!

She nibbles her thumbnail, anxious to see what the others think.


OOC: Thanks, Malacandra, sorry about that!

Tom says "Don't worry Rowena - the key thing is that you have shared with us your power to cast Sleep. And that makes our plan even better!"

So now Tom offers:

Eli, Gabe and Rowena sneak up on the ambushers (as a caster, Rowena is behind the other two.)
Once they are in position, Tom casts first Shield and then Dancing Lights - sending a mysterious glowing figure into the gully.
Hopefully this causes the ambushers to reveal themselves; when they are sneakily attacked by Eli and Gabe (and slept by Rowena.)
If that doesn't work, Bruno and Arewe lead Tom forward.

N.B. If it all goes to plan, should we try to capture one ambusher? (rather than kill them all)

If no-one objects to this plan, I will run the first few rounds of the action scene until some further player input might be necessary. With this set-up, Ro is probably not going to be able to lullaby the ambusher(s) first but will go straight to casting sleep when targets present themselves -- or at least on the hidden bowman and any random person who might be close by since the spell affects a burst radius including anyone you don't happen to have noticed, should the bowman remain hidden and still despite the advance of the party in the gully.

Rowena opens her mouth to object to Tom's characterization of her so-called 'powers' or 'casting,' when Elves' Lullaby--she only knows the Common lyrics--is just a particularly lovely, deeply relaxing song she learned from Heribert. But she knows the Hobbit believes in this sort of thing and perhaps needs the comfort of believing everyone has the same abilities he has. And time is wasting. She'll address this some other time; she's dealt with superstitious types before, and Tom is even more enthusiastic than most.

So she just nods, agreeing to the plan, and walks closer to the two very different men she'll be accompanying. She'll use her voice, not her instrument. It seems less suspicious for a person to be out alone, singing to herself, than to be walking around playing a kit.

Eli proceeds, sword drawn.

As the stealthy trio prepare to advance, Tom's dancing lights figure flickers along the floor of the gully like a wraith of living flame. It is unclear what response this provokes OOC: no-one's Perception check was high enough to tell but moments later, as Eli is waving the other two into position, he has the ill-luck to inhale a fly and cannot suppress the urge to clear his airways. Though this lasts a mere moment, it is enough to betray his (and only his) presence to any nearby enemy, if they have their ears open.

A rustle of movement from the bushes persuades Rowena that this is indeed the case, and she cuts short the lullaby she was about to begin, going straight to the verse about going to sleep right now and concentrating on the bush Eli pointed out and the area nearby. She is rewarded with two soft crashes of bodies hitting the turf.

Down in the gully below, Tom is able to see another bow-wielding orc preparing to loose, and the maze of elf-letters before his eyes condense into the magic missile formula. A glowing bolt darts from his pointing finger at the part-concealed target, recking naught for bushes, undergrowth or any such trivia. The bolt tears into the creature, but it keeps its footing and snarls defiance.

Seeing a couple of enemies falling and bearing in mind the stated aim to secure a prisoner if possible, Eli rushes over with one hand rummaging in his belt for a handy thong with which to lash the creature's wrists, and nods at the other for Gade's attention. Moments later the infuriated orc that just wore the blast of Tom's sorcery aims to return the favour in more mundane fashion, but the shot doesn't even test Tom's barely-visible shield spell. As Gade follows Eli's lead, Arewe looses and fires twice with swift hands that might attract an Elf's tolerant nod of approval, but achieves no more than to make her nimble foe duck. Still, there seems to be no pressing need for Bruno to remain down here when any remaining threat is on the high ground to the right of the gully, and he begins to scramble up to see what can be seen.

Rowena begins singing her familiar song of courage to hearten all folk of good will that hear it, and puts an arrow to the string as she moves closer to the gully to ensure that she can be heard. This has no effect on the second bolt Tom launches it, but it has no need to: the snivelling bow-orc lacks the hardihood to withstand a second magic missile from him, and goes where the wicked cease from troubling. But as Bruno seizes a handful of turf to haul himself onto the high ground, a second orc rushes from hiding and hacks at the temporarily-disadvantaged Beorning with its ragged-edged scimitar, choosing a favourite spot just between ear and shoulder! Bruno instinctively ducks, but not far enough to dodge a blow that nearly takes the top off his skull like a breakfast egg. Snarling defiance at the blow, though OOC: 5 points of damage to Bruno , the burly Man brings his free hand to the butt of his axe's helve and prepares to teach the creature a lesson in the value of fighting fair.

Aghast at the near-decapitation of Bruno, Eli quickly lets his small sword fall, draws and looses his sling, knowing that it is a difficult shot to make with the orc part-hidden by the huge Beorning but trusting his aim... and he strikes true with all the force his rather slender arm can muster. OOC: At least the bard's song compensates for the damage penalty owing to his low Strength; but 3 points of damage only . The shot is too hard for Gade, and Arewe curses in ripe but fortunately untranslated Rohirric as the nock tears loose from the arrow she was letting fly, fouling the string and requiring a few moments to clear. But this is probably all to Bruno's liking. With a furious overhand smash he deals the despicable orc a blow that splits it like well-seasoned firewood, and as the red mist clears from his eyes he is able to see that all of the enemy are either slain or secured.

Arewe looks over the enemy with a Ranger's professional eye as she clears the debris from her bow and fortunately finds it still fit for use. "Four of the smaller breed," she sniffs. "Snaga is the word some use. Whether or not they cared to be told off to watch the thieves' back trail, I doubt they were given much say. We could have fared worse but for our lookouts and some planning, though, and it may be a sterner test awaits ere we are done."

Bruno looks ghostly pale when the battle ends and sinks to his knees. "I think I'm bleeding."
He then sits on his butt and takes several slow deep breaths.

Tom calls for healing for Bruno - and also please can anyone check whether the Snaga blade was poisoned?!

He advises alertness in case any Orc was watching to see the fate of the Sanga group.

When it all stops, when the orcs are dead or sleeping and her comrades are still, Rowena stands hugging her arms that tremble with chills despite her burning face. Arewe's words float over her, fog she barely perceives.

She doesn't understand. The dead orcs, the others--including those in her party--injured but fortunate to be alive, the planning, the motive. None of it makes sense.

Gradually Arewe's comment seeps into her befuddled mind. The tall woman seems to be saying that these attackers were left behind by the thieves, or, perhaps likely, their fellow thieves.

Rowena shakes her head and again takes in the carnage. "All this," she says hoarsely--her throat is sore, which usually happens when singing through emotion-tightened vocal cords. "All this violence...for a ram?"

In truth, she's not only talking about the injuries inflicted by the orcs' side. But she holds her tongue. The companions around her acted in self-defense. She wishes it had been non-lethal, but she can't deny that's probably more her fault than theirs. Perhaps if she'd chosen a better song, sang more powerfully, there'd be more orcs subdued without death.

She sees and hears Tom, and turns toward Bruno in a daze that is washed over by alarm. Again she regrets not having learned any real healing skills. Heribert has long warned her to study such things, but Rowena's foregone that area of training. She doubts music could truly have any healing abilities other than, perhaps, to distract someone's pain. But to actually heal? That seems beyond her ken. Still, she's learned very basic wound care. Winding a cloth around a bleeding injury is well within her abilities.

Forcing herself to stumble toward Bruno, she kneels down--almost falling off-balance--while drawing her bag of belongings from behind her. She searches for a head scarf to staunch the blood--if she does find anything appropriate, she'll gently ask Bruno's permission to dab at his wound. At least it will help until Gade manages whatever hocus-pocus he can to help the large but weakened Bruno.

"You were very brave," she murmurs to him, the sentiment entirely sincere despite her still feeling remote. "This would've been a killing blow for anyone else, I think. Gade will put you to rights."

Tom can see that Rowena is distressed and waits for her to finish giving Bruno first aid.
Tom is already calming himself down after the excitement of combat and tries to gently reassure Rowena. "Sadly all this was indeed over the theft of a ram. But these villainous Orcs will keep killing unless somebody stops them. And we are the ones on the spot."

Rowena looks carefully at Bruno to see if she's causing him pain, and speaks softly as if her voice might injure him further. "I suppose you all know best. I know stories, not... experience. It's just..."

She pauses and tries to articulate her confusion. "They attacked one sheep and stole another, and had more than a day's journey ahead of us. Were these--" Her head tilts awkwardly toward the slain and sleeping orcs around them. "Were they lying in wait for so long? And such a large number?" Now Rowena glances from Tom to Eli and Arewe. "Is that what you saw, back at the pasture?"

Sighing, she shakes her head again. "For a ram," she repeats. "Either they were starving or there's something special about the poor creature."

Bruno, "Maybe it is a ram of door opening?"

Shakes his heads and then winces.

"Sorry, I think I'm a little dazed. Orcs are terrible creatures. They often kill just to kill or worse."

Tom repeats his call for healing Bruno (grinning at the pun.)

Also, does anyone speak Orc? (Maybe these Snaga speak Common?)

Rowena's eyes widen in surprise at Bruno's pun. It's the first note of humor he's shown, or at least that she's seen from him. Despite the grim situation she chuckles and continues to clean the wound. "You can't be too bad off," she murmurs, mindful of his wince and dabbing more gently. "It takes a quicker tongue to joke like that than a worse injury'd allow."

Arewe, done tending to her bowstring for the present, gives Rowena a sympathetic nod. "Ay, sister from the North, life is cheap sometimes once you leave home and hearth behind. Leave it at this - that these folks chose to waylay us by none of our will, and must abide what comes after just as we would had they done their work better or had more numbers.

"This I will say: what we do to one of these we must do to both, showing no favour; what by word or by silence we promise, that we must do; and we're not in such straits as to excuse any orc-conduct on our own part."

Eli curses himself for giving away his position. He knows better than that - it was a foolish mistake. He puts away his sling and, drawing his sword again, will keep a lookout while the others are conversing or tending to the wounded Bruno.

Gabe rubs is hands and mutters a few sing song words as he touches Bruno to do what healing he can (CLW). Looking around at the orcs he curses and mutters about the lack of respect these creatures show for nature. He does not seem sad to see them dead and if looks could kill then those still alive and bound would just be bound. making a sound in is throat that sounds and a symbol with his hands he send Aster off to seek anything else of interest nearby.

Tom has listened carefully to Arewe's advice and completely agrees. (He realises his combat experience is limited to precisely two encounters. :iiam: )
So he suggests:

- we keep a watch (thanks, Aster and Eli!)
- we separate the two Snaga (i.e. out of earshot of each other) and (assuming either they speak Common or one of us knows Orc) ask them the same questions*
- we threaten to take them back to the farming community for a trial if they don't answer
- if they are helpful, we disarm them and tell them to leave the area forever (on pain of death)

* - are you part of a group? (if so, how many in the group and who is the leader?)
- did you steal a ram?
- where are you going?
- is there a larger group of orcs nearby?

Eli has no little experience with orcs, and was once badly wounded by one while serving in the Royal Army of Arnor. He says, well outside of the orcs' earshot, "Orcs are bad, all the way down to their smelly toes. Freeing them, even after disarming them, would just mean unleashing them on some unarmed farmer or dairy maid after they re-arm themselves with, say, tree limbs - plenty of those around - which they could use as clubs. No one puts orcs on trial. I'd take no pleasure in it, but I say we kill them after we've gotten the information we need from them."

Quote:

---

Originally posted by Stebb

Gabe rubs his hands and mutters a few sing song words as he touches Bruno to do what healing he can (CLW).

---

Perhaps to Bruno's wonderment since he may never have known the like before, he looks on as the strange green magician lays a gentle hand on the ugly-looking gash left by the orcish scimitar, and the skin and flesh close with hardly a sign that the Beorning was ever hurt. Even the sting of the wound fades like the memory of an unpleasant dream. OOC: The cure would have put back six hit points if Bruno had lost so many.

"Thank you Gabe, thank you indeed."

Rowena sits back on her heels and watches in unabashed awe as the Druid works his magic. Better than anything she could accomplish, and with no apparent pain on Bruno's part or much strain on Gabe's.

Getting up, she mumbles a dry "you're welcome" to Bruno. He doesn't appear to have noticed her at all. Likely these people are so used to having wounds handled by such as Gabe that they have little use or regard for manual aid.

She busies herself by balling up the now-bloody shawl while pretending to be calm. She's taken aback by the responses of the others that speak of killing the orcs who are currently sleeping--taken aback and chilled. Having never killed anything unless hunting for food, Rowena can't fathom doing so except in immediate peril, to save herself or friends. At least Tom considers an attempt at speaking to these wretched creatures, though that seems to have been brushed aside as useless. If she could she'd appeal to Gabe, who as a druid must esteem nature and life so highly. But he's been essentially uncommunicative to everyone but his owl and Westerly.

If only there were a cleric of some sort among them, someone who might have answers to her anxious doubt. Is any creature born evil? Evil through and through, as Eli claims? Rowena almost wishes it to be true. It'd make choices easier. All the lore she's learned certainly depicts issues that are black and white, characters who are heroes and villains. Good and Evil.

This is not like songs or stories, jokes or legends. This is real life and death in front of her, and worse: she has herself played a part in it. With a guilty stare at the two unconscious orcs, she swallows before speaking.

"I didn't send them to sleep in order to make them easy targets for--for killing. It doesn't seem..." Words fail her.

No, they don't truly fail her; they rarely do. She knows what she meant to say. It doesn't seem noble, or gallant, or dashing or gentlemanly or even fair: any of the other attributes she associates with adventurers. But again, her knowledge is of tales, dramatic and most likely idealized or exaggerated even when relating a historic saga. Rowena knows how foolish and naive she will seem if she continues in that vein.

She forces her focus onto the stained shawl still bundled in her hands. "I need to clean this before it's ruined," she blurts. "I think we passed a puddle not far from here. I will--I'll be back." When she turns to leave she can't help but mentally hissing coward to herself with each step.

Tom thanks Gabe, then reluctantly disagrees with Eli. He says slowly "It doesn't seem right to me to first interrogate these captives, then execute them. If they are so dangerous that we cannot let them go then surely we should mercifully end them whilst they sleep. But my inclination is to find out valuable information in exchange for sending them away. What do we all think is right?"

Bruno replies, "We can't let them go. We can promise a quick merciful death vs. a forcemarch to Dale or Erebor."

To Bruno "You are most welcome Bruno, you fought bravely"

Gabe is more animated than usual as the party discusses the fate of the Orcs although still talks in his sing song way it seems more urgent and definitive than usual, he is used to making such decisions alone.

"These Orcs are evil and must be ended as kindly as we can for the good of our own souls. question them if we must, but they are poison to the earth and like poison cannot be released without ourselves becoming the poisoner. Let those that speak Orcish question them but then they must end lest we become responsible for their evil acts".

"Question them and then put them to a peaceful sleep again before killing them, if that makes you feel better, Tom," Eli says, crossing his arms. "But I'm here neither to guard orc prisoners nor to escort them somewhere else."

Tom nods gratefully. "I accept Eli's suggestion! That way we get information and the villains get a merciful end. Now - does anyone speak Orc?!"
He also checks with Rowena that she can Sleep the Snaga again today...

Having ventured a little way from the site of the battle (and avoiding the conversation that proceeded without her), Rowena will hopefully find a puddle or stream where she'll distractedly rinse her shawl. She'll also splash some water on her face, needing to feel clean.

Tom checks that Rowena is OK, then returns to the party and sums up.
"None of our party speak Orc, so unless the Orcs speak Common, questioning them is pointless. Bruno, Eli, Tom and Gabe are in favour of execution. Rowena is against and Arewe doesn't want us to behave like Orcs.
So unless anyone wants to say more, it appears we painlessly execute the Orcs whilst they are still asleep; check them for Magic (Tom can do this); take any useful equipment and continue tracking the other Orcs."

Tom looks depressed (these adventures are more emotionally difficult than he realised) and waits for the party reaction.

By the time you have had this discussion, the (bound) captives are awake again (Tom had no particular awareness of how long the sleep would last for). Some of you will know that the accounts of the famous adventures that Bilbo and other hobbits had do mention some creatures of orc-kind as being able to converse in the common tongue, even if they use the Black Speech among themselves; Eli will be well-acquainted with the stories that have been circulating around the Shire all his life, Rowena has picked some up as bardic lore as they're among the most significant pieces of history of the last century or so, and Arewe knows that there was at least one holbytla during the War who made a great impression on King Theoden and the now-King Eomer.

Arewe says "I hope you have not misunderstood me, Master Tom. I mean that we may not speak untruth to captives, nor treat one leniently and another harshly in defiance of justice; we may lawfully put them to a swift end so long as we do so by what means will cause no unnecessary pain, nor shame ourselves by mocking those we put to death. So the Orcs do; so we must not do. For waylaying us and seeking our harm unprovoked, they merit such an end, and no blame to us for that."

Aside from some orcish gear and weaponry -- largely trash, and for these sized rather too small for any but the hobbits -- the two who were not archers prove to have each upon them a small vial, perhaps a gill in capacity, which does register as Magic.

Tom cheers up on hearing Arewe's wise words.

He takes the two vials (telling the party they are Magic) and asks the party to separate the two Orcs (i.e. out of earshot) and then asks each Orc in turn (in Common):

- are you part of a group? (if so, how many in the group and who is the leader?)
- did you steal a ram?
- where were you going?
- is there a larger group of orcs nearby?
- what does this vial do?

Once the interrogations are over, Tom checks that Rowena can handle Arewe's statement and reasoning why that the Orcs can now be executed.
Then he asks the party to finish each one swiftly (he can throw in a Ray of Frost on each if that helps speed the end.)

One of the orcs gives you a mad laugh and cackles "Ha ha! The sky-blue wolves are in the fold! You'll get yours soon enough, rammed right where you don't want it. Ha ha ha!"

The other looks the PCs up and down and sniffs meaningfully at Bruno, and sneers "Or you'll do what, big man? Why, you milk-drinking, cheese-eating, sheep-shearing* bunny-lover, you don't have the - "

The editor omits here the vile creature's next word, which Bruno devoutly hopes the women in the party do not understand; and he lapses into Orcish, possibly to say "May He who rules the Winds and She who kindles the Stars bless your going out and your coming in to the end of your days", but taken all in all, probably not.

*At least it was presumably "shearing", although the word was a little slurred.

Bruno accommodates the extra rude orc by bopping him hard with the flat of the axe head on both knees. Probably going to do some permanent damage. "Watch your mouth orc"

Eli smiles slightly to himself, approving of Bruno's physical reprimand. He has no love for orcs, either, clearly.

As Rowena returns to the edge of the area where the rest of the party--she can't think of it as her party right now when she's never felt so separate--she freezes in place, not far from the trees that stand ready to hide her if she can't bear what she's about to see. Her hands twist the wet scarf, less to wring it dry than to take out her tension.

The orcs' insults mean nothing to her. She's spent most of her years in and out of taverns where rough language and threats were commonplace. But Bruno's violent strike makes her wince. She can't think of anything to say or do except flee, and that feels wrong as well.

Then she hears a hoarse but familiar voice, and is extremely surprised to realize it's her own. "Why were you lying in wait? Who were you expecting?"

Tom understands why Bruno and Eli are annoyed, but reminds the party that Arewe stated we should not going to behave like Orcs by bashing prisoners. Tom agrees with this completely.
if the Orcs won't answer our questions, then just execute them swiftly.

Gabe sees that Rowena is unhappy and wonders at how 'people' would rather protect the most vile creatures than protect nature itself. He also gently explains to Rowena:

"nature is itself cruel and for our part we can only help the Earth in saving it from the avoidable perils that creature like Orcs provide". He goes on with a gentle sing song voice "It is an unpleasant and sometimes disturbing responsibility but it is a responsibility none the less and we must discharge it, look away please while we do what must be done but do not judge too harshly, the kindness we do to nature in this act is necessary".

With that Gabe turn towards the Orcs with what looks like bitter determination in his eyes and approaches the Orcs.

OOC assuming they are helpless and that we have the answers we are going to get Gabe will Coup de Grace the orcs unless anyone else wishes to help.

Arewe says "A buffet for such vile speech as this is hardly unlooked-for, but I agree, it is unfair to draw this out longer than needed."

Waiting to see if they will respond to Rowena's question, and seeing that they will not, she approaches one of the two and gives Gabe a nod as he stands by the other. "Ye go clean to your long homes, and if against all hope this is better than ye believe, I am content that ye reach it swiftly."

The Ranger and the Druid strike in the same moment, and the orcs are gone in a single efficient blow apiece.

With a weak nod, Rowena acknowledges the response from Gabe, though her gaze is fixed on the orcs--using all her will to keep it there. Kindness to nature, the Druid said. Aren't all living things nature, she wants to ask, but senses the answer won't help her understand, and her question would be just as useless to the others.

Arewe's words are, as ever, like poetry, and the bard in Rowena can't help appreciating such beautiful use of language. But when the shocking deed is done and two captured beings collapse to the ground, there's no beauty or peace or even, to Rowena's numb confusion, any emotion on her own part at all. She just continues to clutch her shawl, no movement but the rapid rise and fall of her chest.

Tom thanks the party for a difficult decision.
He reassures Gabe that he (Tom) fully appreciates Nature - he used to earn his living from the land. ;)
Tom's only objection (about the evil Orcs) was striking prisoners.

He then reminds the party that he has acquired two Magical vials.
Tom uses Spellcraft on both vials (to Identify their purpose.)
He invites anyone else (especially those trained in the Spellcraft Skill) to 'have a go'!
Tom mentions that if he doesn't succeed today, he can try again tomorrow ... and so on.

When the bodies and vials have been dealt with, Tom looks forward to our skilled trackers picking up the trail of the remaining orcs. :cool:

Tom is able to identify one of the vials as Cure Light Wounds, even though when briefly unstoppered and sniffed it has a "bouquet" only an Orc could love. The other, though it is similar in appearance, he is unable to commit to. To save time, nobody else in the party presently has the ability to even attempt to identify items, so you will have to label this one as SNAGA_2 and if in a dire emergency it needs to be tried anyway, you may find out what it does.

The damp earth in the gully is still holding the trail well and the woodscrafty trackers soon pick it up again, continuing to wind towards higher ground.

Relieved to put an unfortunate but necessary incident behind them all, Eli takes the lead and resumes following the trail, with his customary diligence and alertness.

Rowena lags behind the others, slowed by her reluctance to leave these slain orcs on the ground, neither buried nor burned. Those killed in immediate self-defense are less troubling than the two who were executed. After a moment's desperate thought, she unwraps her shawl and lays it down to cover the latter pair's heads and shoulders. It will shield their pathetically unmourned faces from any rain or wind, at least. The fact that it shields her from seeing them is no small factor, either.

Choking in disgust, she straightens, wipes her hands on her skirt, and follows the rest.

When she catches up to the rest, Rowena wipes her sleeve across her eyes and tries to regain her aplomb. She's a performer, she can play a role.

Her emptier pack--minus the shawl--reminds her of a question she really should have thought of earlier. "Tom," she says, moving more quickly to pass Bruno and Gabe and reach the hobbit. She clears her throat free of some of its huskiness before continuing. "All those things you mentioned... it reminds me. You and Eli paid for some of those provisions earlier, the food from the farm, didn't you? I don't know about the others, but I forgot to offer my share. I'll pay my sixth, whatever you wish." If I ever get my hunger back, she thinks, but of course doesn't say this aloud.

She glances back at Bruno and Gabe: The Healed and the Healer, she might call them in a song. Then her focus returns to Tom. "I hope I've no need of the Potion, but I'm not--I'm not a fighter. And anyway, we can't wait till someone's injured or ill before demanding payment. So I'll pay for that as well." Her hand automatically reaches toward her life's savings, which are nestled in the purse sewn inside her bodice. Then, she drops her arm, flushing. "Um... would five or six coins be enough?"

Tom smiles ruefully at Rowena. "I'm sorry we didn't bury those bodies, but clearly our trackers are keen to follow the trail before it disappears."
He continues "I'm not that good at sums, but to cover the three and fifty gold, we have four from Bruno and Arewe could not help. I don't recall what Gabe, Eli or myself paid - but I doubt six from you would be enough..."

Fifty-three? Rowena's pace falters as she takes in the expense of traveling in larger groups than she's used to. "Oh. I didn't... I didn't realize it was that much," she says slowly.

Bruno has so little. A man of his strength? She's surprised he hasn't found a way to profit by that. Surprised, too, that Arewe was also unable to help. Rowena's spent no time in Rohan, but it's always seemed like a prosperous realm, at least since the departure of that demon in human form who'd held such sway over the now-late King. And Arewe herself has regal bearing. Then again, how many songs have been sung of people from low birth who nevertheless show nobility of spirit beyond their station or meager purses. Arewe could certainly be such a heroine.

Rowena's earned every coin in her possession. Well, depending on one's definition of 'earn.' She expended effort to get them... one way or another. So she's loath to part with them so soon. It's also a disappointment, she must admit, that she's thrown her lot in with a group that's not as wealthy as she judged them to be; so much for her original brilliant plan to guide them in search of possible treasure and a tidy reward for her trouble.

You just covered two slain prisoners with a blood-stained shawl. And you're already complaining about not fattening your purse?

Tightening her lips, Rowena reaches into the V of her bodice--modesty seems petty as well, and besides, the Hobbit's not tall enough to see anything she's not willing for him to see. With nimble fingers she pulls out several coins. "Here's fourteen... no, fifteen," she says, glancing at the shining pieces still warm from their hiding place. "It's all I can safely spare. I've no more in the world than what's with me, nor any family or anyone else to promise more." Sighing, she extends her palm toward Tom. "I hope that's fair enough?"

Tom thanks Rowena and adds "That should certainly cover it. I know I put in at least 15 gold too. When the others confirm what they paid, it will all be sorted. Also we have a second 'free' Potion of Healing, plus yet another Potion which I will try to Identify tomorrow."

Gabe has no idea (neither does Stebb!). Gabe has no real interest in money having lived off the land and valuing nature above all. He has 30gp and when the opportunity comes up he is happy to hand over 15gp or more, whatever others tell him is fair. He is extremely naive when it comes to money so will give away what he has without complain and without consideration for when he may need money next. Perhaps as his adventuring life progresses he may come to value it more but for now he sees no need for anything other than what he already has.

Tom thanks Gabe and assures him that he will pay no more than anyone else in the party.

Eli turns long enough to say, "Let me know what you need, and if I have it, it's yours," before returning to scouting.

Tom looks relieved and (so as not to disturb the tracking) mutters to the party "I've got it now. Arewe had invested all his money in a classy bow; Bruno paid 4; Eli, Gabe and Rowena each put in 12 and I completed the payment with 13 gold. So (on behalf of the party) I am holding two Potions of Healing and one more yet to be Identified."

Arewe invested all his money? Rowena tries not to show concern as she shifts her gaze first to the very-obviously female archer from Rohan, and then back to the coins of her own she sees Tom pocketing.

"You weren't kidding about the counting issues," she says lightly--though she rarely jokes about money. "I'm better at words than figures myself, but not so bad that I can't add up to fifteen--which is what I just gave you." She pats her chest for emphasis, unintentionally giving the impression that her breasts can tell the difference between 12 and 15gp.

"In fact, Gabe offered 15 too, we just heard him. Are you..." She squints in speculation and says softly to Tom: "You weren't hurt in the fight, were you? Or maybe you're just hungry? You Hobbits take a second breakfast, I know. Should you and Eli be eating?"

Tom is chuffed that he has clearly sorted out who paid what and balanced the total. He then realises that Rowena is teasing him and is just considering the bluff that announcing 'her and his bow' is an old Hobbit phrase when 'second breakfast' is mentioned. Naturally this drives other thoughts out of Tom's mind and he looks round hopefully for somebody (male or female) lobbing an apple in his direction.

Had he but known what Tom was thinking, Eli would happily lob an apple over his shoulder.

The trail continues to be easy to follow -- as was observed by another tracker, many miles and years from here, orcs seem to enjoy beating down growing things that are not even in their way -- and winds into a dense patch of forest that clings to the lower slopes of a tall chalk ridge. Here, dense undergrowth makes it difficult to make much progress other than on the path itself, where there are signs that now and then a large hooved animal was driven rather than carried. At need the hobbits could probably duck into the bushes and bracken off the path, but even they would not be moving very quickly.

Gabe finds the general feel of the woodland quite agreeable. A disquieting sense has sometimes come over him in the last year or so, suggesting that something strange is before, but while the orcish presence nearby is malign, in general the woods feel much as they ought to. But it is dim and awfully tree-ish in here, albeit not oppressive.

Tom quietly thanks the trackers and asks if they can tell roughly how long ago the Orcs passed through...

Eli will look carefully to answer Tom's question.

Tom has been slightly on edge since the combat with the Snaga Orcs.
However he is now reassured as Eli clearly can follow the tracks and Gabe looks quite at home in the forest.
Although staying alert (and ready to cast his last couple of spells for today), Tom cheers himself up with some thoughts about smart comebacks to the remaining Orcs (once we catch them):

- Hah! You look sheepish
- Don't plead innocence or we'll ram the truth down your throat
- Your plan was poor ... the result of woolly thinking

The group seems quiet, perhaps to be expected on a mission like this as they journey toward the next goal, whatever that may be. If their next destination was discussed while she lagged behind with the orcs' bodies, she missed it. Or perhaps she simply forgot.

Regardless, she doesn't like having nothing else to concentrate on but the sounds of the underbrush supplemented with the low clanking of various armor, weapons and other supplies.

Normally she'd fill the silence herself with a song or tale, but she's not sure it'd be welcome--not even by herself. Heribert taught her that contrary to received knowledge, a good Bard won't just provide the entertainment, education, inspiration and distraction, but will encourage participation from others. So Rowena decides to try once again to stir the party into conversation.

The trackers are too far ahead, and Gabe and Bruno too far behind (and disinclined to speak even if they were closer). So she addresses the happily garrulous Tom beside her.

"What brought you here," she asks softly. "I know times have long past since Hobbits preferred to stay safe at home in their own villages. But is there something in particular that set you to travel?"

Tom grins at Rowena and whispers back "I thought my travelling days were over when I left the banks of the Anduin and entered the city of Dale. I only made that trip because I'd heard about the adventures of Bilbo and wanted to see one or two places he had visited.
However I liked the excitement of a bustling city (as opposed to cutting peat for a living!), so I took a menial housekeeping job with a local Wizard. Lucky for me, as when my Sorcerer powers manifested, he was able to explain what had happened and show me how to use my new abilities.
Then I heard there was a party visiting the Lonely Mountain and decided to join them just to sightsee ... and now I'm on an adventure!"

As the party toil up the steepening slope through the increasingly dense wood, progress becomes harder, with the trail here and there forced into quite a narrow place between fallen rocks that tumbled there an unknown time ago. However, Eli is heartened (as also are Bruno and Arewe) to see, by the increasingly clear marks, that the fleeing Orcs were clearly making at least as heavy weather of the trail, and have plainly lost ground on you despite the earlier ambush.

In the dim and rather tree-ish light of the wood, the sound of a clear voice from a previously-unknown speaker precedes any actual sighting of the owner of the voice. A few words in a pleasant, musical tone fall easily on the ear; but only those present who speak Elvish understand it.

Bruno has no idea what is being said, but it glad it is Elvish voices he hears.

"Let's ask the Elves if they've seen any Snaga in the last few days."

Tom speaks Elven (and is delighted to hear there is an Elf nearby.)
He responds politely (in Elven.)

Tom's actual reply in Elven is "Hail and well met! We are chasing a group of orcs that have stolen a precious Ram from a nearby farmer. These Orcs have tried to kill us. Have you seen them? And do you perchance speak Common?"

(He mutters a swift translation for the rest of the party.)

Eli Proudfoot has only met Elves twice before, and is pleased by the opportunity to meet more. He stops his scouting for the moment and rejoins the group.

Rowena's curiosity is piqued by the language, which she knows is Elven. More than mere recognition is beyond her, never having met an Elf, much less spoken to one. She'd only be able to identify a smattering of vocabulary used and translated in various ballads and tales both historic and fictional.

So great is their race's reputation within these stories that the girl's eyes widen in awe at the prospect of seeing one at last. Assuming that this is an Elf, which seems a safe bet.

Her gaze darts around in an attempt to perceive the location of the stranger. When Tom speaks she shifts to stare at him, quietly impressed by his fluency in High Speech. She then resumes her search in renewed excitement for this new experience--a thrill she thought died back with the orcs.

Tom notices Rowena is looking at him again. He admires her contribution to the party, so enjoys trying to work out what she is thinking. :psychic:
So the clues are:

- Tom was speaking Elven
- Rowena is a Bard
- Tom came from humble beginnings

Aha! It all makes sense! :cool:
Clearly Rowena was remembering an Elven song and was inspired to create a new ditty about Tom himself - 'The ballad of the Peat Farmer.' :smug:

Tom whispers his clever deduction to Rowena (whilst listening for any more Elven conversation.)

Tom's Elvish greeting is answered not in words but by the quiet, graceful arrival of a green-clad Elf with a curve-bladed sword scabbarded at his belt and a typically elven bow at the ready - but his free hand is away from the arrows quivered at his shoulder and raised palm-up in the familiar empty-hand gesture that shows peaceful intentions. He seems little hindered by the dense greenery; and he answers in the Westron speech with a little less than complete fluency but the musical tones that Rowena more than half expected, although he gives Tom a polite bow that suggests he appreciates the attempt to converse in Elvish.

"Welcome, strangers! I am sorry to say that orc-filth loose in these woods is becoming more common than I like, and while I have seen no sheep-stealers myself, your news comes as little surprise and I should not wonder if they had worse deeds to their charge already. Sadly there are few enough within easy call to deal with nuisances such as these, so if you are intending to do something about them then you have my gratitude and that of some others.

"Indeed times are becoming more troubled lately, as those have noticed who have ears to hear and eyes to see the disquietude that seems to lie upon the very trees and pleasant valleys hereabouts. I, for one, do not relish the reappearance of such creatures, such a short passage of days as it seems since the Shadow was overthrown and the new hope dawned.

"Still, perhaps we can make some common cause. I, Idhrenion, humble tender of these few score woody acres, bid you welcome - and I believe you will find your quarry not far from here. As the ground rises and the trees give way to scrub and scree, you will find several caves of some size in the lands beyond. You will see where a land-slip perhaps only a few score to hundreds of years ago has exposed large fissures in the rock beneath - enough for such creatures as these to lair in, and leading perhaps to quite large caverns beyond, though I do not foray there alone or with only the few of my kind that are at hand, and so I cannot offer you first-hand account of what lies there. If you wish to rest yourselves, I can show you good camp-ground where the water is refreshing and there is little danger of prying eyes while you recuperate."

Tom says (in Westron) "Thank you Idhrenion for your kind words and helpful offer."
He introduces Idhrenion to the rest of the party, then continues "If you could describe the route to these caverns, that would undoubtedly help us find the orc-filth - even if we happen to lose their trail. Also we would relish knowing where there is a good and safe place to camp."
Tom is remembering spending the night in boggy ground - a recommended camp-site appeals to him!
He turns to the party. "I suggest we listen carefully to Idhrenion's directions, then ask him to take us to the camp-ground. We can rest there, heal our wounds and recover our spells. Then next morning we travel to the nearby caverns and attack the orcs. What say you all?"

Rowena smiles at Tom's question about her look--she also warns herself to be in better control over her emotions, since Tom seems extremely attuned to such things.

Her attention is quickly diverted by the arrival of the Elf. Her first real-life experience of his kind proves that the tapestries, illustrated scrolls and paintings she's seen haven't exaggerated the physical beauty of Elves. Nor have stories glorifying their otherworldly grace and noble bearing overpraised them.

She quickly hides her awe, not wanting the others to be as canny as Tom was just now, and tries to focus on what Idhrenion says, rather than merely how he's saying it. (Or how he looks when saying it, for that matter, she thinks with some embarrassment.)

Tom's deft, ready response again surprises her. He just described himself as a peat farmer, but he must have vastly more experience than he's letting on, or has spent much time studying explorers and battles and suchlike.

Attack the orcs. Or, as people apparently call them, "orc-filth." That is not the lofty speech she expected from an Elf. Rowena looks at the ground, hiding her concern and doubt. Following a set of violent orcs into caves with the intent to slaughter them over a pair of sheep... it seems like madness.

Regardless, she has no better option than to follow. Rowena's come too far now to travel back on her own. She must stick with the group or risk getting lost--or worse.

"Whatever you lot think best," she murmurs with a casual shrug. Forcing her chin up to look directly at the Elf, she nods. "And thank you for the offer."

Gade looks on with something like awe or perhaps love in is eyes as he views elves as the best of folk and some of the few that seem to have mastered the balance with nature that all should aspire too.

"A good camp site should not be passed up and who knows if we may pass this way again and make use of such a place".

"As for the Orcs, well if we can recover the Ram then we should do that, if we have to kill Orcs to do it then that too is acceptable but taking on what may be a whole orc tribe or war band may be unwise, we should scout carefully and try to return the Ram without being noticed if we can".

Eli knows no Elvish, but bows deeply and says in Westron, "Hail, Idhrenion, and well met! I am Elihu Proudfoot of the Shire. Thank you for your good counsel and encouragement. May your stewardship of these lands prosper for many years to come."

Bruno says, "Ah, a dry camp would be a good thing."

Tom thanks the party for their helpful responses.
He turns to Idhrenion. "We are happy to accept your courteous offer. Do please describe the route to the caverns and then take us to the camp-site."

Tom reminds the party to ask if they need healing. Once they reach the camp-site he will organise watches for the night.
In the morning Tom will recover his spells and try Spellcraft on the unidentified Potion.

Idhrenion leads you by a path that is narrow and more difficult for you to follow than it seems to be for him, but everyone manages it and you find yourself in a slight dell deep in the woods where a spring flows from one bank and a gentle breeze will carry even the smoke of a small fire away from the upper slopes, where it might have been smelled. This is probably as good a time as any to break out the mutton you were given earlier since the meat would benefit from being cooked soon and this is the best chance you have had for a while of a hot meal.

If there are any other Elves about then they do not show themselves for the present; but Idhrenion converses politely with you, seeming pleased to have some company from the fair town of Dale and more than willing to offer comfort and support to those who may be about to go up against Orcs for the first time in their lives. He apparently recognises that Eli has some prior experience with the breed, but he cautions the party:

"Be warned. Orcs are not like Men or Elves. The worst of our kind have our faults, gross faults in some cases, to our lasting shame; but when you are dealing with Orcs you are dealing with creatures that, though shaped not unlike ourselves, are in fact as unlike as any creatures could be. If you show them mercy, then do so because cruelty degrades you, and not from any lingering sense that 'we are brothers under the skin'. That is not so. Orcs delight in everything from petty mischief to gross cruelty, with every possible shade of callousness in between.

"I can put it no plainer than this (and I speak from extensive knowledge of our lore and history): if you fell into the hands of these creatures, and they had license to do as they would with you, then they would certainly inflict unspeakable shame upon you which I will not name more plainly; they would cheerfully kill you when it amused them to do so; they would joyfully flay the skins from you for trophies and they would eat your flesh as the most delectable feast they know. Which -- did the grace of the Valar closely attend you -- would happen in the order in which I gave you.

"Campaign against them with caution, and you may live long if you be true and stout-hearted companions. But trust not over-much to luck, and more to good planning. In the morning I will lead you to where the caverns can be clearly descried."

Arewe -- who has had some training in the ways of Orc-kind by her trainers in Rohan -- nods sagely at the Elf's words but makes no attempt to add to his eloquence.

As the party are settling in, a wolf-howl echoes faintly and distantly on the night air. Idhrenion's eyebrows lift for a moment and his lips purse slightly. "So. This is an unwelcome development."

Tom quickly mutters to Idhrenion "You know this place - in how many directions can a wolf-pack come at us? Will you take a position in the front line?"

Tom suggests to the party that Bruno, Gabe, Arewe and Idhrenion take on the enemy, whilst Eli attacks from stealth and Rowena and Tom stay behind the front line.

He apologises to the party for any 'bossiness' - but we need to be co-ordinated and act swiftly...

Bruno nods grimly and readies his axe. He is ready to try to cleave the first wolf that tries to attack the party.

Idhrenion listens for a while, then says "For now they are far distant. See about your rest - those that can sleep soundly when there are wolves about, even a few miles off, have my respect! Should they come at us tonight, I will gladly bear a hand, and I will watch for now with whichever of you feels the least need of sleep.

"Wolves have been rare in this land for many years, and I do not welcome their return."

Bruno prepares a fairly smooth dry spot and catches some rest until needed.

Eli, too, knows the importance of getting enough sleep while out in the field, but says, "Someone should be on watch. I will stand the first watch, and also cook that mutton for our later eating, if there is no objection."

Tom is happy to see Eli and Idhrenion take the first watch (and offers to help Eli cook the mutton in the morning.)
Perhaps Stebb and Arewe could take the middle watch, leaving Bruno, Rowena and Tom to cover the last watch.

"If there are wolves around," Rowena says quietly, "perhaps we shouldn't cook anything to tempt them. I'd like a hot substantial meal, but I'd also rather have cram and water, and avoid the risk. At least while they're within hearing distance."

Tom nods at Rowena's careful cooking precaution, but adds "Idhrenion can guide us on whether to do it - note that there is a gentle breeze to carry away the smoke and smell."

Idhrenion suggests "Stew it slowly overnight in a covered pot - that will release much less scent than roasting it in front of the fire. I can show you a few roots and herbs that will improve the flavour. You may as well have hot food while you can, when you do not know how long you might have to wait for your next chance. Wolf-noses are good, but the same breeze that carries their howls to us will tend to carry smell away from them.

"A traveller's tip for another time: some small game can be wrapped in mud and the fire built over them, which will bake them in a shell of clay. That is most unlikely to betray your presence - and it also removes feathers and fur when you break the clay open.

"It concerns me that wolves might be moving back into this area, and more that they might make common cause with the orc-folk; but you had better concentrate first on the business you came here on. We may speak more of wolves another time."

"Thank you, Idhrenion," Eli says. He looks around. "Anyone have a pot with a cover?"

Tom pipes up. "Bruno has a sturdy iron pot with a three-legged stand! Also I have cooking experience. ;) "

Rowena knows that Elves--in fact, all the other members of the party--have closer ties to nature than she does. If they feel confident that the direction of the wind will remain in their favor, sending both sound and scent away from the wolves instead of toward them, she can hardly argue. She just nods silently.

A hot meal will be welcome, especially after sleeping in the night air without the benefit of her sole outer garment. Rowena briefly second-guesses her furtive gesture to cover the orcs' corpses with her shawl.

Then she remembers their faces and swallows. No. It was the right thing to do. Still, she's glad that the others weren't there to see, much less deride, her sentimental impulse toward the enemy.

Anyway, she thinks contentedly, the fire will keep her warm enough. "Should we look for wood to use as fire, or is that unnecessary with..." She looks from the Druid* to Tom to the Elf. "...With your various abilities?"


* OOC: Hey GM, can you confer with Stebb to get a consistent decision about this character's name?

Tom says he can probably put a small fire out (with his Ray of Frost), but he has no magic to make fire.

Even Gandalf admitted that he needed to have something to work with, and could not burn snow. But there is fuel enough for a fire, and anyone with even one rank in Survival is able to figure out how to start a fire in a forest (without actually burning the place down), so between the various party members who have field experience it is a small matter to find fuel, kindling, and materials to rig an impromptu hearth.

The occasional wolf-howl remains at a respectful distance, and remains something to be considered for another day rather than an immediate pressing concern, and the warmth of the well-shielded fire is indeed a comfort after the previous damp night in the swamp.

So the party can gather a few roots and herbs under Idhrenion's direction, make a small fire and slow cook the mutton overnight with the flavourings.

Tom politely reminds the anyone with an injury to take a Cure tonight (so the spell can be reloaded.)

The watches can be: Eli and Idhrenion; Stebb and Arewe; Bruno, Rowena and Tom.

If the night passes, Tom will use Spellcraft on the unknown Potion.

Gade (Not Stebb ... that is my user ID) is happy to take watch and can offer a cure to anyone in need, carting 2 as standard so just shout when you need them.

With no injuries, Rowena has nothing that needs curing--nothing that's curable, anyway. She will sit by the fire to keep warm, and asks the group as a whole whether they'd like to hear any music, and if so, if they request anything in particular--whether it's an individual song or just a style of music.


OOC: Oh yep I know your username, Stebb! I wanted Malacandra to ask you which name you want for your PC, because looking back at your posts it's varied from Gade to Gabe and back again. I'm happy to have it settled on Gade! Thanks!

Eli says, "I, for one, would not mind a quiet song or two here at day's end. Thank you, Rowena."

The rest of the night passes peacefully. Idhrehion chats quietly with Eli during the early hours and the Scout finds himself sharing more of his life, experiences, hopes and fears than he ever really expected to; the Elf (and whether he is old, young or in-between Eli can hardly tell) is a ready listener who, while never directly offering advice, seems to encourage Eli to develop all the half-formed thoughts in his own head, leaving him surprisingly well at ease and ready to sleep soundly when his turn comes.

Indeed, Idhrenion seems to take little more than the odd very light nap all night, now and then stirring to pass comment on some night sound when the watchkeepers had thought him asleep. While a distant wolf-howl is occasionally heard, they still come no closer for the present; and no other dangerous forest-creature makes its presence known.

As the sky clears and the slow-cooked mutton provides a welcome lining for stomachs that may have to wait a while for anything but cram and water, Tom fetches out the yet-unidentified potion. He is still uncertain; but Idhrenion asks politely to look it over and remarks sagely "Yes, typical Orcish curing potion. Low potency but may save a life if you are badly hurt! They take a pride in making their medicines either taste vile (if swallowed) or smart hideously (if applied to the skin), but the brews do what they are meant to do nonetheless." OOC: This is another potion of Cure Light Wounds and Tom now receives a +2 circumstance bonus to identify any Orcish healing potion, oil or salve

OOC: Knowing that you have a second potion available may influence Gade's spell selection. Stebb, don't forget that you also load a certain number of 0-level orisons for the day - which (like Tom's cantrips) can each be used as many times as you like.

Idhrenion guides the party to the edge of the woods and points out where the ground rises steeply, almost cliff-like, with a sizeable crack that would easily admit creatures of Man-size or smaller - and possibly even a recalcitrant ram.

OOC: choie, by all means back-fill the song from the previous night or whatever air Rowena uses to rouse the sleepers and brace them for the day's labours

Though the day is not yet hot, the sky is mostly cloudless and the daylight is bright even where not in direct sunlight.

Tom suggests that we send in a Scout (Eli?) to reconnoiter the crack and caverns beyond.
It will be nuisance if the party cannot get reasonably close to the crack (due to lack of cover), but perhaps the Orcs will be disadvantaged by the sunlight.

Tom thanks Rowena for her music and remarks "I am now quite well-informed on second breakfasts, peat cutting and Orcish Healing Potions!"

Eli, too, is grateful for any songs which Rowena may have sung, as well as for the chance to talk with Idhrehion - far and away the longest conversation he's ever had with an Elf, and one he's still turning over in his mind. After a good night's sleep, his morning ablutions and a quite palatable mutton breakfast, he's ready to resume his scouting duties for the party.

Bruno awakes after a good night sleep. "rAHHHaaah" he yawns and stretches.

Last night Rowena played a few gentle tunes familiar to the Hobbits, and while everyone digested the much-needed breakfast today, she switched to a spirited riding song from the Rohirrim, mustering courage.

Once everyone is ready for the off and have taken their leave for the time being of Idhrenion, the party manage to approach within a hundred yards or so of the cave entrance while still keeping to cover. At that point it becomes more difficult, and a matter for a trained Scout (and a Hobbit at that, able to make use of much smaller covers than a Man would) to come close enough to reconnoitre the cave entrance at all. Well in advance of any aid or succour, Eli takes more than a Hobbit's usual care to remain unseen. But it seems perhaps as though any Orcs nearby are skulking well away from the bright morning light, even though direct sunlight will not shine into the cavemouth for hours yet.

Eli watches closely and listens with all the concentration he can muster. It seems as though there is some orcish yammering from deep within the caves -- why so, Eli cannot guess, but the noise might cover his companions' approach for the present and they could get some way without being seen or heard. Turning his attention to any possible guard-posts outside the caves, Eli concludes after a while that if there are any Orcs outside, they not only mind the daylight much less than reputation suggests, but are better scouts than he is. An old wound, only half-remembered but never quite forgotten, gives him the merest hint of a twinge.

---

A respectable bowshot away, Arewe watches the scout's progress as best she can, a shaft already drawn and ready to loose. She smiles softly at the memory of Rowena's breakfast song, which is now circling in her mind's ear with a persistence that might have been annoying at another place and time.

If Eli beckons us forward. Tom suggests that the rest of the party try to get close to the cave entrance - hopefully to one side so they would not be seen from inside.
If we achieve that, Eli is welcome to reconnoitre inside (as we can cover him if he needs to suddenly run back out the cave....)

Eli goes back and reports all he found to the rest of the party. He is certainly willing to enter the cave and learn more, if he can.

Tom thanks Eli for agreeing to go in (scouting information is always so helpful!)

The only decision Eli needs to make is whether he prefers the party in their current cover (a bowshot away) or just outside the cave entrance...

Eli considers. "Closer would probably be better, if you can still maintain cover until I might need to call for help," he says.

Tom replies "We could lurk either side of the entrance - but of course anyone actually coming out would spot us. However we are here to defeat orcs, so that should be all right!"

Eli is able to find a spot close to the cave entrance where the rest of the party could lurk within summoning distance while he explores a little further in. Inside the cave, of course, the daylight quickly fades and Eli has only the limited ability of a Hobbit's night-vision - the same as a Man's, and no better - to help him make what he can of the lessening light. Sooner than he likes, he is having to make the unpleasant choice between risking a light or carrying on by feel.

His decision may be aided by the fact that, just as the cave begins to narrow and takes a slight bend, he hears voices quite close by, muttering in something that sounds very much like Orcish as far as he can tell although he does not know how to speak the language. There are what seems to be quite loud noises much further distant, echoing oddly in the cave. As to the nearer noises, he is certain their is more than one, and fears there could be three or more; but that's all he can tell for sure, and what he knows of orc-lore suggests that were he to approach more closely, they would be much more likely to see him in the dark than he them.

Bruno carefully gets to the lurking area. Afraid he might give away the groups position.

Eli decides that discretion is the better part of valor, at least for now. He quietly withdraws to report to his friends.

Tom states that with Eli's useful information the party have to make a big decision - either we leave the area (at least the local Elves now know there are Orcs here) or go in.

The Orcs will always have the advantage of darkness within the caverns, but if we do attack now we have two things in our favour: surprise and bright sunlight to cover our retreat.

Tom votes to go in and fight the nearby Orcs (with a retreat into sunlight if things go badly - e.g. strong reinforcements turn up.) As usual, melee Fighters at the front; Casters just behind.
He offers to have his Dancing Lights spell running, which will a) light the cavern b) distract the orcs a bit.
Perhaps another could also have a light...

How do the party vote?

Eli says, "I agree with Tom. There's no better time than this, given what we came here to do."

What we came here to do. Rowena listens, hugging herself with one arm as she bites at a thumbnail. She didn't enlist to be part of a rampaging, orc-killing mercenaries. Unpaid mercenaries, for that matter. And such a tiny band of mercenaries, trying to rout any number of hidden enemies!

A tug of loyalty keeps her in place. As well as... something else. She fears she’s not simply a coward, or too noble to kill, but also that she's denying herself the path she's been set on for as long as she can remember. Her gaze falls to the ground, torn by the growing concern that she's too inexperienced in the ways of the world to be a true Bard.

She wishes she could talk with Heribert. But he left her alone and must have done so for a reason. That leaves no one else. The others, still mostly strangers to her, seem so certain. Rowena's already shown her indecision and doubt; it would be shameful to expose even more. Besides, now isn't the time for such conversation.

At least, she must ask that first question that leapt to mind. "What is it we came here to do? Save the ram, if it still lives? Punish those who stole it? Or just kill orcs generally?" Her throat feels dry when she tries to swallow. "Are we strong enough, prepared enough, to take on so many, if many there are?" Rowena warily eyes the opening to the cavern. "If you all think so, I--I will help, to whatever degree I can. I can't let you all down if there is something I can do."

"When you're all ready, I'll lead the way. Can our archers shoot around me in the cave? Maybe Tom can magic around me?" Bruno says and asks.

To Rowena Eli says, "Save the ram, certainly, if it still lives. Punish those who stole it, yes, if we can. Just kill orcs generally? No... although I certainly wouldn't mind the opportunity if it again arises." He smiles at her. "And come what may, I, at least, am glad you're here."

To Bruno he says, "My thanks, O large and strong one. I am not so pushy as to insist I go first once fighting begins, if it ever does."

Tom turns to Rowena and agrees with what Eli said.
Sadly there is evil in this World and we may have to deal with it on occasion. But it's not our main objective.

Tom then thanks the others for their support in the attacking plan and suggests that the tough lot (Bruno, Arewe + Gade, with Eli sneaking) use melee attacks. This makes it harder for the orcs to flee + summon reinforcements.
Tom and Rowena can assist from behind the mighty front line.

Tom adds that he would like a couple of rounds notice before the attack, so he can get preparatory spells off (including Dancing Lights to help everyone see on the cave.)

Arewe says "My arrows will not last forever, so I am willing to accompany my brother warriors into close combat for this time. If fortune favours us, these sentries will be inattentive -- duty such as this irks their kind, especially if something interesting is going on deeper inside. We should strike while we have the chance."

OOC: Stebb has some IRL issues at the moment which I won't elaborate on, but he should be able to rejoin us in due course. We can assume Gade is willing to go along with the majority

Rowena nods gratefully to Eli, and to both Arewe and Tom as she pulls out her own bow. When the other woman mentions concern about running out of arrows, Rowena frowns and wonders why Arewe fears extinguishing her supply so quickly. Personally, Rowena's never found her own quiver empty.

Of course, she's also never been in any situation requiring that many arrows. The most she's ever used was during a friendly archery contest. Even then, when it seemed she should've nearly run out and she'd muttered a grumpy plea that she was wrong and there'd still be more... the prayer came true: she'd miscounted after all. Her fingers never failed to grasp at the next nock and feathered fletching.

And so the thought of running out now is unthinkable. Terrifying. Imagine being surrounded by enemies, seeing her party members in need of aid, only to reach behind her shoulder in vain--

She hides a shudder and, not for the first time, uses her persuasive storytelling skills on herself. Well, it's never happened yet. And it won't happen now. It just won't.

After Tom has muttered a couple of spells OOC: Dancing Lights and Shield, I assume, but contradict me if necessary the sextet pile into the cave, Eli hoping to be able to use the distracting flicker of the lights to help him conceal himself while the three warrior types (including the tough Druid) look to take the battle more directly to the enemy.

Quickly disposing themselves for battle, the party find themselves in a low-roofed cavern (but roomy enough for not even Bruno to bang his head) and several Orcs scrambling for their weapons. One is larger than they saw before, an iron-helmed brute with a spear and hide shield who seems to be barking orders at the other four, one of whom is running for a small pile of heavy rocks that have been fashioned into an impromptu breastwork while the other three draw short curved swords with ragged edges and advance in a loose knot.

They do not seem inclined to welcome uninvited strangers.

Though the floor of the cavern is rough and strewn here and there with light rubble, it will not inconvenience anyone on either side who is planning on charging the enemy. As the two sides take each other's measure, they are about twenty feet apart (with Rowena and Tom lurking a little further behind).

OOC: Actions, please?

Eli, his sword already drawn, will see if he can edge around to the side and attack one of the smaller orcs while staying out of the way of the larger, stronger and more combat-capable members of our party. Otherwise, he will hang back and wait for a good opportunity to join the fight after the initial clash, without taking any foolish risks.

Bruno says, "Concentrate on the big one" and charges him.

If another orc stands near the brute, Bruno will try to cleave both.

Yes, Tom would indeed have cast Shield and Dancing Lights before the party went in.

Now that battle is joined Tom will repeatedly cast Magic Missiles at the leader Orc. (If he falls, then Magic Missiles at any Orc who is coming towards Tom and Rowena; else an Orc who has injured one of our front line.

Tom will also try to keep his Dancing Lights a) helping Eli sneak b) distracting an Orc.

Rowena, startled at finding the orcs so quickly, freezes for a second until she hears Bruno. She has no clear view of the orcs from behind the much larger trio of fighters, and if a melee begins she worries she won't see what's happening or who's doing what to whom.

Biting her lip, she tries to pluck up the courage to find a better angle--perhaps she can nimbly scramble up any boulders, or craggy parts of the cavern walls to give herself a boost?--before attempting to send their enemies to sleep once again with her most convincing, lulling whisper.




OOC: So I guess the official words would be an initiative check, then using her pretty good dexterity stat, and finally her bardic performance to put someone to sleep?

Tom casts a magic missile at the leader Orc, striking soundly home OOC: 5 points, maximum! but it doesn't stop this one.
Gade closes on the nearest of the lesser orcs and swings his stout oaken staff, scoring a well-aimed hit, not quite with the sweet spot of the weapon but good enough to drop his foe OOC: also 5 points; that's enough for a non-leader
Rowena, finding herself able to glimpse the enemies between the moving bodies of her friends, begins her sleep spell OOC: it is a full round to cast and will take effect just before she begins her next action
Arewe stabs with her short sword but the blow is turned by the creature's shield, despite her extensive training at combatting such creatures.
The leader Orc accepts Bruno's silent challenge and moves into space, bracing his spear to receive Bruno's charge. Two of the three lesser orcs remaining are in hand-to-hand combat with Gade and Arewe, and one barely nicks the druid for a single point of damage while the other ventures a panicky slash at the warrior of Rohan and hits nothing but fresh air. The third has reached cover and ventures a shot at Tom with its small bow, missing badly and apparently finding the eldritch glare of the dancing lights interfering with its aim. OOC: A "fumble", rolling a natural 1 on its attack followed by a confirmatory miss, means in this case it will take an attack penalty on its next few shots. Also, usefully, the dancing lights spell does not require "concentration" to be maintained or even for the lights to move as Tom wishes.
Bruno charges, axe upraised, testing the leader Orc's nerve... which holds: Bruno is hit OOC: for 6 points of damage but keeps his feet, scoring a hit of his own OOC: 9 points! which leaves the Orc visibly on its last legs, but the savage ferocity of its kind will keep it on its feet a few moments longer, desperate to take an enemy with it.
Eli, having made excellent use of the flickering shadows, blindsides the archer with a vicious sneak attack that drops it on the spot! OOC: Again, the extra damage die from executing a successful sneak attack more than offsets Eli's indifferent hand-to-hand damage rating

Eli Proudfoot will, with another sword thrust, make sure the orc archer is dead, and then see if can make himself useful elsewhere in the melee.

Tom fires a Magic Missile at the injured orc leader, whilst keeping his Dancing Lights both illuminating the cavern and helping Eli sneak.

Tom continues with another magic missile on the leader orc, another blazing bolt tears into it OOC: 4 points and this is more punishment than it can take.

Gade tries his luck again with his staff but the blow misses.

Rowena's sleep spell takes effect. One of the lesser orcs emits a mighty yawn but stays on its feet, while the other crumples, leaving only one to face the combined might of Gade and Arewe. With her bow to hand, the woman of Dale looses off, carefully avoiding hitting her allies, and lands a well-aimed shot directly on target. The orc takes an arrow to the fleshy part of the thigh but keeps its feet OOC: 3 points won't quite do the job . Barely a fraction of a second behind, Arewe skewers the creature with a businesslike thrust of her shortsword.

The guard post, if that's what this cave can be called, has been secured. Gade has a slight nick but Bruno a more severe puncture to his favourite belly which, however, has not reached the vitals and is more messy than life-threatening, at least for now. There is a sleeping orc which will either wake up or meet a more permanent fate within the minute.

From some way further in, a strange yammering sound can be heard; it's difficult to know what all the fuss is about or whether the orcs deeper in the cave are alarmed, celebrating, or even now engaged in some life-or-death struggle.

Tom congratulates the party and swiftly suggests they:

- guard the way further into the caves (if Eli feels comfortable, could he scout a little ahead?)
- cure Bruno
- prepare to either advance or nip back out (do say which you prefer!)
- deal with the sleeping orc (either mercy slay or interrogate)

If it's safe to do so, Tom will:

- cast a replacement Dancing Lights (for when the current one expires)
- cast Detect Magic on the orcs (starting with the leader)
- listen to the yammering within (as he speaks orc)
- interrogate the orc (if that's the party decision)

Rowena breathes deeply as her heart races after the melee. Though sickened by the death surrounding her, she is glad the others in her party were successful, with no apparent serious injuries. She curbs her instinct to help Bruno--her attending to his wound the other day wasn't needed, or appreciated. Gade will put him to rights.

Privately she frets over the weakness of her song, only affecting one of the enemies. Maybe she chose the wrong one, or... then again, maybe she wasn't in the right frame of mind. Her own fear probably undermined her ability to becalm others--at least, other than just the orc.

...Who is likely to be killed now. Rowena turns away and swallows back her emotions. "Um... well met, everyone," she says enthusiastically. Encouraging others and boosting morale is a big part of a Bard's duties, even if she can't quite do the same for herself. But that's why acting is such a vital skill in her would-be profession.

"I ask the same question as Tom. Do we go further on our own? Sounds like a very large group down there. You all fight bravely and we've met every challenge so far. I'm sure you'd vanquish anything when faced with groups of similar size to ours."

She licks her lips and continues to face away from the others, focusing instead on the path they just took to get here. "But if we're outnumbered, and we're in the orcs' territory that they know better than we do... what do you think we ought to do?"

Tom thanks Rowena for her Sleep spell - always helpful against low-level troops. :cool:

Tom agrees with the Bard that going in against an unknown number of opponents in their home is jolly risky. But if Eli can give us information, we can make a wise decision. (Of course we may need to retreat to heal and recover spells first...)

Eli nods briskly. "Right, then," he says. "Off I go. Wish me luck."

He heads deeper into the cave system to scout ahead, with his usual caution and powers of observation.

Gade can and does oblige the wounded Bruno with a Cure Light Wounds, restoring the gruff Beorning to full health.

Tom does find a potion bottle on the leader, but it does not seem to be a Cure potion as encountered before. With an excellent application of his Spellcraft skill, Tom is able to discern that it is a potion of remove fear.

Eli makes his stealthy way deeper into the cave system and finds himself, a little later, on a ledge at the top of a short flight of rough-cut stairs leading down into a larger cavern. There he sees, making a good deal of noise, a band of about eight of the larger orcs similar to the one who was leading the detachment in the entrance cave; also three very strange figures indeed:

- a Man, but with skin unlike any Man's that Eli has yet seen, pale yellowish-brown in colour, robed as Wizards are sometimes said to be robed, in cloth that shimmers strangely in the light of several burning braziers and seems to be pale blue in colour
- another Man, similar in appearance to the other, but shaven-headed (while the first wears a long dark queue topped by a small round hat), wearing loose-fitting trousers of similar-coloured cloth and a tunic that leaves his arms bare
- a large Orc whose head is adorned with a large pair of curly horns, as if they had grown there (and this is not a thing of which Eli has heard even in tales)

As Eli watches in fascinated horror, the first-mentioned Man says to the horned Orc, in heavily accented but comprehensible Common: "Now it is done! Go then, take three with you and journey to the Lone Rock. Convey our greetings to the Grey Wolf and tell him the Sky-Blue hails him and bids him welcome. Bid him and his band approach! Flesh, blood and plunder await". Then to the others: "Rest now. Be armed and ready by the time the sun is upon the horizon. I go to my refreshment."

At this, the gathering begins to break up, and the horned Orc and three others begin to head for the stairs, in no great hurry it seems, while the other orcs disappear into deeper caverns as do the two Men.

Bruno, "Thank you Gade, thank you."
He then checks his axe that it is ready for the next battle.

Tom decides a lesser orc will have no useful information (especially compared to our super scout Eli!), asks Rowena to look away and slays the sleeping orc.
Whilst thanking Gade for his always useful Cures, Tom keeps renewing his Dancing Light spell.
He asks the party to help him move the orc bodies out of sight (so that any enemies from further within the caverns who turn up will not immediately realise what has happened to the guards.)

Eli commits the oddly-colored Man's remarks to memory, quietly slips back into the shadows and goes to tell his friends all that he's just learned.

Whilst awaiting the welcome return of Eli (and hiding the orc bodies), Tom mutters to Rowena "I'm sorry there's so much violence - but we are honestly defending ourselves against evil. And depending on what Eli finds out, there may well be more combat. Suddenly a group of tourists have been thrust into doing good on a local basis. Clearly You are a jolly useful member of our group, so do please carry on!"
He passes the Bard a Cure potion, explaining that it can only be used once - but could save a life. (Since Gade and Rowena can recover their curing spells daily, those should be used first...)

Rowena thanks Tom, both for his comforting words and the potion. She handles the latter with a light touch, eyeing it with a gaze that falls somewhere between reverence and wariness. "I will use this, and gladly, if you or Gade can show me how. But I don't think... I don't have any curing abilities. Other than basic wound care and so on. I traveled with a mentor, a proper Bard, and one of us had to know how to patch up cuts and scrapes. He chose me." Smiling a bit, she gingerly puts the vial* into her pack. "But thanks again. I'll do my best to use this gift."



* How are these potions contained? A phial or vial or something similar?

Eli hurries back into the cave where the party are waiting. While the orcs behind aren't in hot pursuit (and did not give any indication of having noticed the skulking hobbit), neither are they dragging their feet; they could be as little as half a minute behind Eli. As far as you know, this is the only way in or out and they must come this way if they're headed out.

Bruno will try to position himself in a way to gain some advantage when they enter the cave. Probably standing to one side of the entrance and waiting.

"Anyone have grease or something to screw up their footing?"

Tom will maintain his Dancing Lights and prepare to cast his last two Magic Missiles.

Rowena, uncertain how to be of use--especially if her ability to lull people to sleep is decreasing--stands toward the back and nervously plucks out a courageous tune on her fiddle to help the others maintain their fortitude.

As the four orcs -- including the sheep-headed one -- enter the cave, they appear momentarily confused by the lack of guard and the strange patterns of light in the cave. With an angry growl, Gade bursts into life, connecting with the left-most of the first three in (the leader is just behind them) with a blow that is less weighty than he hoped, but buoyed up by the strains of the fiddle behind him he still causes his orc to smart. OOC: 5 damage . A moment late Eli sticks his hobbit blade well into the same one's floating ribs, leaving it bleeding badly OOC: 5 points -- but like the orc you met earlier, this one can stay on its feet for a short while even though mortally wounded while Arewe engages the centre one of the trio, wounding it somewhat with a stab that didn't have her full weight behind it. OOC: 4 points Bruno's great axe strikes the third of the trio with crushing force a moment before it could react and drops it on the spot! OOC: maximum damage on a greataxe, backed by Bruno's great strength and the bardic inspire courage, will do that . Tom, unsure which of the first two orcs is worse hurt, impulsively chooses the one ganged up on by Eli and Gade to blast with yet another magic missile and leaves it still closer to death OOC: another 5 points, which sadly doesn't benefit from violin music .

Belatedly the orcs show signs of reacting to the unexpected presence...

Gade strikes again, his orc still doesn't have its guard up and while the blow of his staff is once again less than he hoped it is still enough to floor the ailing creature. OOC: Orc ferocity can't prevail against taking a total of 20 points before the poor thing recovers from surprise and losing initiative. Eli wisely scurries away while he is still out of reach of the sheepheaded one, knowing better than to stay in a toe-to-toe fight with a large orc, heading for the rear and the questionable protection of his fellow hobbit and the fiddle-playing Dale woman. Arewe tries another stab but misjudges the distance, barely managing to duck the return blow as her orc whips out a scimitar and slashes at her, while the sheephead bellows a strange, bestial howl somewhere between a warrior orc and an enraged ram, closes the gap (but it is too close to charge) and butts Bruno squarely in the chest OOC: 8 points of damage . Still on his feet, Bruno snarls defiance in a voice hardly less bestial than the orc's, but more bear-like, and swings his axe a second time, barely glancing off the creature's hide. Tom, seeing his Beorning ally hard beset, helps out as best he can with a magic missile on which he focusses a little extra-hard, screwing up all his will to extract some additional effect from it... and he is rewarded by seeing the sheepheaded one not only take a glowing bolt where it will do him no good OOC: my dice seem to want to roll you maximum damage tonight... another 5-pointer!! but be actually blasted off his feet.

OOC: A creature damaged by a toppling spell must successfully make a saving throw or be knocked prone; from which it can either engage in combat at a large penalty for being off its feet, or first try to stand up and give everyone within reach a free hit. That's not something you like in a close-fought battle.

Gade manoeuvres to catch Arewe's orc between himself and her, and strikes again, missing, but providing a distraction at least. Eli readies his sling for action in case he sees an opportunity to loose at an orc not presently in melee, while Rowena maintains her fiddling, heartening the warriors still in the front line. Arewe, knowing well that a battleground is not a duelling field, takes advantage of the orc's temporary distraction OOC: it is flanked, with two opponents on opposite sides of it to stab the orc in front of her good and hard OOC: 9 points...! leaving it too at death's door.

As the floored sheephead makes to rise, Bruno hews at it, with a less-accurate but mightier swing OOC: The attack bonus for a prone target makes it well worth while using power attack in a bid for extra damage. 10 points. but the bestial creature still makes it to its feet. It is covered in its own gore but sets itself for a desperate charge.

OOC: The damage this creature has taken renders it staggered, allowing it to move or attack, but not both... and it had to use its move to stand up.

The orc pincered by Gade and Arewe steps adjacent to its leader, but prefers the slighter-built Arewe to the massive Bruno as a target, and its unsteady strike at the maid of Rohan goes wild. Moreover...

Bruno aims a cleaving blow at both enemies, aiming to cut down first the leader and then the other, and the greataxe swings as true as if it were wielded by a great hero of old. The blow shears the sheep's head from the orc's shoulders and the blow carries through into the last remaining enemy, slaying it less spectacularly but just as effectively.

OOC: Bruno successfully delivered a critical hit. That means rolling the damage dice three times and adding any bonuses three times over. Even allowing for this guy having many more hit points than a typical orc, 37 damage is brutal. Using Cleave and Power Attack against the other adjacent orc, Bruno rolled another attack which was also successful and, even if not a critical hit, was more than enough to finish the job.

Arewe picks up the severed head and inspects it with distaste, holding it up for the inspection of the others; it does indeed seem to be some vile, unnatural amalgam of orc and ram.

Tom congratulates the party on a well co-ordinated attack!
He suggests someone Cure Bruno now and that we prepare to leave the caves soon (e.g. as Tom is out of his main spells.)

Tom casts Detect Magic on the Orcs and also renews his Dancing Lights for illumination.
If someone will undertake the unpleasant task, Tom invites them to bring the Orc/Ram head - perhaps the Elves will know something about it?
Also (many thanks to Eli), the Elves may know what 'Lone Rock', 'Grey Wolf' and 'Sky Blue' mean...

Eli catches his breath and says, "Well done, everyone, and my thanks! Bruno, in particular, those were mighty blows indeed. And now victory is once again ours." He then gives the party a more complete report on what he heard and saw deeper within the caves, quoting the oddly-colored Man's remarks.

While Tom finds nothing on any of the orcs radiating magic, he does observe that three of them wore quite bulky wristlets of silver which contain enough of the metal to be valuable in their own right, while there is a torc of silver and gold lying by the beheaded corpse of the (formerly...!) sheep-headed leader.

Arewe sheathes her sword and readies her bow again, saying "We have done well, but hearing Eli's news, I believe Tom is wise in suggesting we withdraw ourselves; another such attack could be more than we could compass, and we have both information that perhaps should be more widely known, and perhaps uncovered the mystery concerning Mistress Barnes's sheep.

"I am curious, though, to know if even the Elves know in what wise such as this may have been worked," she adds, continuing her inspection of the horned head.

Were any of the orc-kind wearing any armor? This work is far more dangerous than scraping out a living in the woods. I'm currently in scale mail.

Bruno inspects the orc corpses but finds them clad in hides and the like - certainly no improvement on what he presently has, and rather the reverse, hardly worth the disagreeable labour of stripping them from their late owners. However, you do have a small collection of orc scimitars by now that may be saleable, at least. They're not worth much, but since this group is close to penury it's not necessarily a bad idea to take them along.

Rowena is morbidly fascinated by the grotesque ram-orc head. It's like something from a nightmare--Maybe one brought on by overindulging on ale and muttton, she thinks as she squints at the monster. The silver catches her interest as well, but when she takes a look around she sees that Gade has not yet healed Bruno. As much as she needs money, injuries take precedence over acquisition of treasure.

Uncertain, she steps closer to the wounded fighter while addressing the Druid. "I have that potion," she says hesitantly. "Is it better to use it now, or save it for some other instance if you are... unable to help?"

Gade smiles and in his usual strange lilting tones replies: "I will use my powers now, and we can save salves and potions for when I am too worn." OOC: That's 7 points restored to Bruno

OOC: I am seeing Stebb tomorrow to play Third Reich, I will remind him that this game is still current

With the plundered gear, such as it is, safely stowed, the six are ready to depart if they are set on doing so.

Tom arranges that the party carry between them:

- the Silver/Gold Torc
- the 3 Silver wristlets
- the Orc Scimitars
- the severed head (yuck)

and leaves the cave, heading for Idhrenion the Elf.

Perhaps the Elf can tells us about the ram-orc head (and even buy the jewellery / scimitars.)

Keeping her attention far away from the corpses, Rowena gladly agrees to carry the wristlets--maybe a bit too eager, but she can't pretend she doesn't like shiny things. Even if she only gets to admire them. She watches Tom as he departs so quickly. Is he confident enough to lead now? His magic is impressive, regardless of how much she dislikes and distrusts the craft. And there's no real reason a hobbit shouldn't take charge. Everyone knows the valor and strength of the two who destroyed the Ring.

Tom's courage and combat skills are certainly stronger than her own. So are Eli's. She's embarrassed by her meager contributions to the fighting. She didn't expect such violence; it's not what she bargained for. She can run, and sneak around, and her fingers' dexterity are equally capable of plucking a tune and plucking various useful items from carts or stalls, when necessity requires it. But full-on fighting? It's beyond her experience.

She scowls and pushes out her lower lip. She can just imagine Heribert's voice in response. Then, my girl, you'd better bloody well make it your experience. Or leave now. Else you're just an extra body getting in the way--maybe even a liability if you're hurt or captured and the others waste time on you, instead of their goal.

"'Captured'," she scoffs, then mutters under her breath to herself. "Ridiculous. Who'd want me? Casting myself the role of a damsel in distress now? And anyway everyone else says that Orcs kill their victims, they don't 'capture' them."

Somehow this doesn't lift her spirits. She edges closer to Eli on their way out of the cave. If he seems friendly she wants to apologize to him for providing no assistance or coverage when he needed it.

Eli always tries to be friendly to everyone, Rowena included. And if there's a sack available he will, with some reluctance, carry the severed head.

Tom thanks first Rowena for helping, then Eli for doing the unpleasant task (but it might be vital that the Elves see the accursed magic...)

He giggles as he remarks "That orc-ram was in charge of the patrol. But now he's lost his head and got the sack!"

Rowena almost regrets having sidled over to Eli, now that he's volunteered to carry the revolting head. Tom's words make her smile, however--humor is much needed right now. She should be providing it, as a matter of fact; she'll have to drum up some song or tale to lighten the party's collective mood. Right now she's drawing a blank.

So she sticks to Eli. "I'm sorry I couldn't provide much cover for you, back there. I have no real experience in battle, except... well, running away, the few times I've gotten too close to a brawl." Or when she's caused one, for that matter--but that's a tale of dubious honor, and she won't be relating it any time soon.

"But you go towards the danger," she continues. "It's funny. People speak of Hobbits as being so content to stay in their own communities and avoiding adventure. But the ones I've heard about, and now those I've met, seem to be the exceptions. I'm beginning to think there are more exceptions than not." After a moment's thought, she chuckles. "Guess I wouldn't have met or heard about those who led homebound lives, would I?"

Rowena adjusts her pack, which is chafing her shoulder with the added weight of the bracelets and supplies. "Anyway, all that scouting and such... how did you get so skilled? And brave. You and Tom both," she adds, raising her voice slightly to include the other young man. "Please, I'd really like to know."

As the conversation continues, the six exit the cave into what is still quite early morning, with the shadows only shortened a little from when they entered, and hurry down the slope towards the forest. Tales tell that the orc-kind, though disliking daylight, will go to some lengths to pursue intruders, especially with a fallen chief to avenge, and it is with some relief that the adventurers (mere tourists no longer) mark the sight of Idhrenion himself stepping out from behind a tree considerably closer than Eli would have expected to have spotted him.

He conducts them quickly deeper into the forest by a mazy winding trail that should be hard to follow, and asks after their doings so far. When shown the horned head, he inspects it with the kind of distasteful interest someone might show to a rare but hideously poisonous insect in a glass case.

"This is no natural creature that I ever heard of, and these horns are truly ram's horns indeed if I ever saw the breed. Some vile art did this, but I know not what -- and it is a matter for concern that someone able to do this is about the place. But if, as seems plain to me, these horns be from the stolen beast you were searching for, then the shepherd should be told; it will be unhappy news, but it will put an end to uncertainty at least."

Invited to consider the plunder, the Elf looks it over and says politely "I carry little wealth about me, and have no use for Orc jewellery, still less their weapons. You should find them saleable enough in Dale though; with travellers of all sorts passing through in every direction, merchants seldom have trouble finding buyers for the strangest curios."

Tom thanks Idhrenion for his wise words and checks the Elf does not recognise 'Lone Rock', 'Grey Wolf' and 'Sky Blue' (which words Eli overheard in the Orc Caverns.)

Unless Idhrenion recommends otherwise, Tom suggests the party return to Briagha with news of her missing ram.
(Now that the Elf has seen the abomination, the party can thankfully bury the orc-ram head.)

Tom also hears Rowena's conversation and cheerfully replies "Honestly, I'm making things up as I go! :)
Danger comes so swiftly I don't have time to be afraid.
It also helps that I visualise our enemies as standing between me and a hearty breakfast. ;)

"Aye, I could use some Mead and Honey-cakes about now", says Bruno as his stomach growls.
"Do you want me to carry some of the load?"

Idhrenion says "Orc-cant. I could not tell you what it signifies, but the reference to a 'Grey Wolf' could be no more or less than it says: we heard wolf-song only a night past. As to which rock our foes might call 'Lone Rock', that would be but a guess.

"Oh, and perhaps your shepherd friend would care to see the evidence. It can hardly stink worse in the few hours it would take you to reach her.

"I recommend that you don't delay -- and I suspect we shall meet again."

Rowena wonders why the Elf brought them so far into the woods, and says as much to Eli. Now they have an even longer trudge to the shepherd. Honestly she'd prefer to go straight to Dale and cash in the loot, but that conflicts with her desire for adventure to provide fodder for future storytelling. Exonerating an Eagle might not currently seem the stuff of which sagas are made, but she holds out hope.

Meanwhile she can't help her concern that despite her genuine interest, her companions seem hesitant to tell her anything worthy of story or song. Usually Rowena's greatest skill is charming others, who are quite eager to converse with her at great length. Not here. They sure are a reticent bunch. Or excessively modest.

Or... is it possible they're truly just as raw and untried as Rowena herself? If so, they're acquitting themselves with extraordinary, admirable skill she wishes she could emulate.

With a shrug she decides to stick to 'barding'--humming or picking out tunes if the mood strikes her. Plucking a fiddle, she thinks with a scowl while absently rubbing the calluses on her fingertips. Not for the first time, she bemoans how unwieldy a bowed instrument is for travel. Why on earth did her master choose it for her?

One thing's sure: Any coins she gets from her share of the treasures will go toward buying something more practical. "Loot for a lute," she says, chuckling, though the words must seem nonsense to the others.

Tom thanks Bruno and passes him the Orcish Scimitars to carry.
Following Idhrenion's advice to return to the shepherdess Briagha, Tom cheers up Bruno (and himself) with the thought that she should have some decent grub.

Tom also notices that Rowena is looking thoughtful again and gives her a 'thumbs up' gesture of good cheer.
When he hears her witty 'Loot for a lute", he reassures her that she is .... plucky. ;)

Finally Tom ushers the party back towards Briagha, reminding them to keep to the previous marching order...

(Rowena's direction sense is a little off. The wood was on their way back to the farm. In any case the Elf's chosen route should make it harder for enemies to follow.)

Based on Idhrenion's advice, Tom will ask Eli to carry the Orc-Ram head back to Briagha.
Tom also asks Bruno if he still needs a minor Cure.

"Hasn't Eli already volunteered to hold that... thing?" Rowena murmurs, not looking up from the neck of her fiddle. She's paying more attention to figuring out the correct position on the fingerboard to properly match a chord she's been hearing in her head for the past week or so. This tune will be the setting for a semi-raunchy poem she heard in the inn back in Dale--the same inn where she met this group.

Tom explains that he briefly suggested burying the head, but is happy to follow the Elf's advice instead.

He's looking forward to showing Briagha that the party did find what happened to her ram (even if its bad news) and that the thieves have been dealt with.

Perhaps Briagha will sell us some good food (and may even want to buy either a piece of jewellery or even a scimitar...)

Eli will continue to carry the head (hoping he had a sack to do so all along).

He says to his friend, "Thank you, Rowena. I'm not particularly brave, as hobbits go, and many of my people will show plenty of courage when put to the test, as Frodo's Companions showed all of Middle-earth, winning great renown. But I am more adventurous than most, I suppose, and learned much of scouting and fieldcraft as a shirriff and even more when I served in the Royal Army of Arnor." He makes a face. "Carrying severed orc-heads wasn't part of my training, though. Not ever. This is a first for me, and if the Valar be willing, hopefully a last, too."

"A shirriff!" Rowena's eyes widen, then she shakes her head. "One Hobbit a sorcerer, the other a former shirriff and soldier! I've heard shamefully few stories about your people, aside from Frodo and Samwise and the rest. To be honest, I've traveled to lots of villages and towns, and I'm sorry to say the old beliefs about Hobbits linger on. You deserve to have your tales told, and not just ones from ages and ages ago."

As she contemplates the unfairness, it strikes her that Eli's also getting stuck with some of the worst jobs. Going out in advance, risking his hide all alone in that cave. Now that disgusting orc-ram... thing. "Um... if you want, I'll carry that... the sack."

Eli considers for a moment, then says, "No, thank you. Very kind of you to offer, though. I've gotten it this far; I'll take it as far as I have to."

Tom thanks ex-Shirriff Eli (feeling somewhat frustrated that he can't think of a pun with 'neck' :smack ) and then reassures Rowena that he (Tom) was originally a simple peat farmer (a 'bog-standard' profession!)

With cheery chatter to speed the way, and a reasonable assurance that the road is now clear, the party come to Tupsmead Farm by early afternoon, where all seems to be business as usual. They are sighted as they approach and, in response to a summons, Briagha soon puts in an appearance. Looking you up and down, she has little difficulty recognising that you have been in a fight since she last saw you -- possibly several.

"Welcome back," she says guardedly, perhaps not having expected you back so soon, or disappointed to see Bellin the ram not with you. "What news?"

Tom carefully explains that orcs did indeed abduct Bellin and slay him.
He mentions the party executing many orcs responsible for the theft and then warns Briagha that there is foul magic afoot.
Tom then asks Eli to empty the sack, revealing the orc-ram head horror.