Middle Earth FA65 D&D Game: Tenth Adventure – On to the Quest

"None that I know of, though that's a low bar to clear, all things considered. I would imagine that this is more likely a personal or familial connection; what do we know about those buried here?"

Rorimac looks slightly askew at Thoroncir. "You wish to spend a night on the Downs? I was hoping to make a run for Bree. Or if not, straight north for the main road, which should be closer. That Rod is going to attract everything evil for miles around. Let's get it out of here. Yes, the treasure here is a sight to behold and may come in exceedingly useful. But I would rather I could walk and talk in the sunshine, than remain trapped in a barrow wrapped in those goods."

"I suggest we all pick something quickly and then leave at pace."

Those around can tell that Rorimac is beginning to get a little jumpy as the sun begins to set.

Ceol nods in agreement with Rorimac. "It would not be my preference to stay overnight on the Downs."

Unless someone else desires it, Ceol will request the emerald pendant from the chamber of the younger princess.

Gilraen asks, "So stay or go? I see merit to each. If we stay we best make a strong defense and plan on most staying up until dawn. If we go, we should make haste, scatter the coins and items after taking 1 item each. Who will transport the Rod? I cannot. It is surely the item we sought."

"Given that Khosal is probably more than likely to turn up at Night than not, I suggest an expeditious retreat", says Mulligan. "I wouldn't want to be around, at Night on the Barrows, fighting off wraiths and then to have to face whatever he is. As for the Rod, I'll carry it, if no-one else will. I'll just make sure someone else is holding this ring and besides, if I run off, Freya will always know where I am."

"I will carry the Rod, Mulligan," says Thoroncir, "in one of the spare sacks I always have with me. Then let us be off, with each member of the party taking along an item or two as well."

Ceol will wrap up the emerald pendant (if it remains unclaimed), and secure it under his armor. He will encourage Wilfred and Cwenhild to each select an item from the treasure pile. Once all have taken an item, he will help to scatter the remaining items (as we depart if we decide to attempt to leave the Downs now).

"I would carry the rod as well if it were needed. Besides, if this thing is truly as evil as it's supposed to be, we probably want to trade it off between multiple people, lest its corruption affect the current holder.

"As far as taking an item, I have little use for any of the arms or armor, but one of the cloaks or boots might be useful.

"And I'm in favor of leaving the area as well rather than spending the night here. No one's really going to get any sleep anyway if we stay here."

Deor twists his Ring nervously on his finger and declines to carry either the Rod or Mulligan's ring. His Pendant is a powerful ward against his own ring, but it seems unwise to stretch its power.

Deor would select either the diamond ring or the woven gold belt. If anyone else would like to claim one, he'll take the other. If not, he'll take the belt.

Gil-Gandel is interested in the "no-encumbrance" backpack - he's a lifelong fan of travelling light which is sometimes at odds with the needs of the adventuring life, and this would help to square that circle. Fearing wights, and all that go abroad by night, rather less than do the sons of Men, he would still as soon be well clear of this place ere the Sun be gone.

Rorimac is considering the King's bracers or possibly the gauntlets if no-one else was interested and if they could fit him.

Mulligan looks at the King's knife. "Gilraen, do you think you could purify this somehow. I have a feeling it come in useful."

Gilraen listening replies, "I suspect that knife might be innately evil, but I do not know. I doubt we have the time purify much of anything. But with more leisure we could try. Gil-Gandel, I believe the Rod is safest in the hands of a Dwarf or a Hobbit. As it was made to entrap the Dunedain in particular, I believe Thoroncir should not carry it at all and Deor should stay clear of it of course already more susceptible as practitioner of wizardry. Myself, I am repulsed by its very presence and hope we can destroy it somehow. Perhaps in Imladris lies our answers. I believe I count 32 items of power including the Rod. There is only 12 of us. Perhaps we can retreat for Bree and send some off to Fornost and some to Imladris and perhaps a few south. We should pick an item for Lorlianna at least. Let's split these items up 3 per person except whoever is carrying the Rod itself. We determine the split perhaps with more leisure in the light of day within the hedge of Bree. That is my thought."

The gauntlets appear too large but one has heard of magical gauntlets adjusting in size. The bracers are also too large.

Rorimac looks at the sky and surrounding area. "Haladain, how is it looking, any sign of trouble yet?"

Mulligan takes her ring off and puts it on a chain before handing it to Rorimac, before asking Thoroncir for that spare sack.

Rorimac accepts the ring before picking up the gauntlets and bracers. "Ok, everybody grab three items and let's go. North is that way. We can hopefully clear the Barrows and get to the road before dark and then head along it to Bree."

With daylight fading quickly, Ceol will take any three "items of power" with him, and makes sure that the other paladins do the same, as the group prepares to depart.

Carefully not touching it directly, Thoroncir puts the Rod into a sack and hands it to Mulligan with a nod. He will stuff another three items that have not already been selected into a sack, nudging them in with his sword.

Bitur will take any three items.

"Mulligan, if you find the rod too evil of a burden at any point, I will trade my items for it."

Bitur will watch Mulligan carefully for any change in demeanor while she is transporting the rod.

Gil-Gandel takes two more items, wrapping them each in cloth and stowing them separately on his person.

"Understood Bitur, although you might be better keeping an eye on Freyja instead. If her demeanor changes towards me, it's time to take the Rod."

August 24^th, FA65
The party mounts up and races north for the road. Drindoleth gives everybody and every beast a Goodberry to strengthen them for the race. He then takes on his eagle form to scout the way ahead.

Gilraen rides with her bauble out. She recommend that swords that glow when undead are near are kept out. Cwenhild and Wilfrid both ride with their Swords at the ready. Cwenhild's star etched blade glows a bit as it gets darker.

The swiftest path out of the downs will be single file in many areas. Haladain says, "It will take us directly past one of the oldest barrows but is only a little over 13 miles. If we trot the horses for a little over an hour we can be clear of the downs shortly after sunset. Perhaps Gil-Gandel has some song to sustain our spirit and the horses endurance."

Gil-Gandel needs no further prompting, and at once extemporises in time with the rhythmic trotting of his horse Cúran, who is making little of the pace – his rider sits him easily and is lightly clad.

Sing, ye travellers, swiftly tread
At closing of the day;
Few the miles till fire and bed
When Valar smooth the way;
Green the grass and clear the air,
Bright the evening sky -
Sing, ye travellers, sing all fair,
Passing swiftly by.

See the Sun descend to rest,
See Earendil bright!
Soon the loveliest and the best
Lady of the Night
Sends the stars to shine on high
Till the coming morn
Flames anew the Eastern sky
Blazing with the dawn.

Soft the sward and clear the trail,
Swift our willing steeds!
Home and welcome shall not fail
Soon to meet our needs.
Seeking then our warmth and cheer
Haste our rest to win!
Food awaits, and foaming beer,
At the kindly inn.

The horses indeed look invigorated and fall into a smooth swift stride. Additionally for those that can speak with them, the horses are eager to get off the downs themselves and well fed thanks to Drindoleth.

The race is on ...

Rorimac is happy to take point with Haladain. He will be keeping Khosal's Bane free to see if it glows.

Mulligan is feeling quite nervous, in the middle of the group and holding something quite nasty. She uses Heliox to keep looking around for anything invisible, hoping to see things coming first.

Thoroncir will speak to each of the horses and put them at ease with his words, if he can. He will remain near Gilraen, ready to defend her if necessary. He keeps Arcirist in hand and glances at it from time to time to see if it glows.

Ceol rides with his short sword (which is particularly effective against undead) drawn. He keeps an eye on the other horses, for any sign of distress among the steeds. As he rides, he murmurs encouragement into Leofwin's ear. "We shall be away from this place soon, my friend."

Idh Uihreb is also drawn...

As the sun lowers to the west and it gets darker, dark clouds gather and mists are rising. At the same time a large increase in birds is seen.

Drindoleth flies down and reports, "I have friends in the air but this weather is not natural and I can do nothing to counter it. It will be a bad thunder storm not too long from now. Something is pursuing us but not gaining ground at least. It is wrapped in a dark cloud about 2 miles behind us."

So far no swords are glowing to indicate nearby undead.

"Thank you for the information, Drindoleth. I think that we must assume that it is Kkósal, or his allies, who pursues us."

"If there is a pursuer behind us, wouldn't it make sense to get rid of it now, while there is still some light remaining on the Downs, rather than have it harry us in the dark all the way to Bree. I doubt that getting to the road is going to stop it." says Mulligan

Let us keep an eye on it - and look about us for a promising place to make a stand if we must. But keep moving.

Is there any way for Deor to know whether such a creature would be weakened more by sunlight or by being off its home ground?

Deor is fairly sure a wight would suffer from either but for some reason don't stray to the road. Kkosal however won't be worried about the road but will probably be stronger in the dark.

Thoroncir rides on, his longsword and shield at the ready.

Deor will ask the party to halt, and suggest that Kkosal is better fought in daylight. We should find a defensible strongpoint, even just simple hillside high ground, and prepare to fight. Unless we intend to outrun Kkosal altogether, we'd do better to stand and fight now, rather than be caught in the dark.

"Rorimac, Haladain. Can you see anywhere that might suffice?", asks Mulligan

Rorimac starts looking around for somewhere appropriate. "Can we not set an ambush beyond the barrows but before the road, twilight rather than full night, but still out of range of this cursed area."

A wise choice, I should say, though I doubt we will successfully execute an ambush - think rather in terms of a prepared stand.

Haladain & Rorimac think the party can get beyond the downs before the sun sets. There is an open area you can see on the north of the western Cardolan on the map Haladain had. We can make it there at least and probably around the old hedge line you see in green below the road. There has never been a report of a wight north of the old hedge line at least.

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b1...arrowDowns.jpg

Thoroncir thinks it would probably be for the best, given the hour. He will look for the most defensible place along the hedge line.

So the party rides on, urging the horses to just a little extra speed to make the old hedge line before sundown.

Drindoleth will fly on ahead and use his spells to make a more defensive position. Let him know what the party wants. He is excellent at thick hedges if a tree as an arrow platform is desired he can handle that as long as the tree is already available. He also offers to get word to Bree by bird if the party thinks anyone there can be of aid.

"Ideally, a place where we can bottleneck our pursuer, so we can predict the direction he comes to us. And, also ideally, a place where we have an avenue of retreat, if needed."

After a moment, Ceol adds, "Now that I think about it, those might be mutually exclusive." He smiles slightly.

"There is a large hedge along the road. We could do with an entrance through it, which is blocked for several metres in both directions.", says Rorimac. "If anything goes wrong, we can retreat through and block it, giving us a chance to retreat if needs be."

"As for Bree, my father is there. Anyone he can rouse to meet us on the road would be more than welcome."

"Better to have too many swords than not enough," Thoroncir says. "By all means, send for reinforcements, if possible."

The party reaches the old hedge line as the sun is getting low. Drindoleth has chosen a location to build a low hedge and scrub fort that is about 100'x100'. It has 2 tall trees in it with several excellent branches from which to bow. The hedges are unlikely to slow wights much but may help somewhat. He reports birds have been sent to Bree looking for fast help and that on the off chance, even to look for Tom's house in the old forest, though from what Drindoleth has heard, Tom is unlikely to come help. He offers to cast Barkskin on any interested. He explains, "It will help protect the recipients from swords and arrows at least. If many creatures come in this dark cloud I plan to bring up a circle of fire around myself to fight them as a fierce flaming bear. The dark cloud will be upon us soon but I suspect they will hold until sunset."

Many of the horses are tired and well need rest. Drindoleth offers each another goodberry.

Gilraen says quietly, "I am strangely tired, probably still the effects of the stun but I will be singing the Estë's Prayer Song to aid us in this battle. It will last about 16 minutes after I stop singing. I will also cast up a Protection from Evil that will help protect all within 10 feet of me. It will last about 80 minutes. Think about any protection you might need and may the Valar watch over and protect us."

After conferring with Cwenhild, Wilfrid offers this, "We will fight on either side of Rorimac and try to get him to this one named Kkósal. It seems his blade will hopefully do to Kkósal what Meriadoc's did to the Witch King. Cwenhild would like to take on the role of her hero of course in that earlier battle."

Any other prep? This includes using spells, potions, or fortifying positions.

Thoroncir says to Gilraen, "Please, my lady, sit and rest a bit before the battle begins. And have a sip of miruvor; it will do you good." He will stand near her and protect her (and any others who wish to draw near) against any foe.

Gilraen, "Alas, I don't believe their is any more Elven Cordial in the party."

Ceol nods to Wilfrid. "If you are willing...this seems a daring plan, but it might well work. May Eonwë guide your blades, and strengthen your shields." He will gladly accept the Barkskin from Drindoleth, and will work with Thoroncir, Gil-Gandel, and Bitur on the best formation for creating a front "wall" of warriors.

Place our holy warriors of Rohan at intervals no nearer than fifteen feet nor more than twenty apart, with our others in between as seems best to them. Their aura of sanctity will lend useful aid to those close to them. Bid our steeds, you who are horse-whisperers, to remain a furlong away - the work of a few moments to gallop to us at need, but where they will not be caught in any cross-fire. They are sensible beasts and will follow whichever of their number they see fit.

Is this cloud cover stormy enough to Call Lightning from? If so, I shall work one up a quarter of an hour before sunset and keep a bolt on hand ready to fire.

On sight of the enemy I shall wind Glinras for the usual benefits. Now for my tree and a clear view. When the fighters advance against Kkósal I shall flame my two swords, cast Mirror Image and lend my aid to the attackers. Deor, Drindoleth, should the occasion arise do remember I have excellent protection from fire and if I were swamped by lesser wights I would have nothing to fear were you to burn them off me. :)

Bitur will arrange himself in the front with the other warriors, a potion of superheroism at the ready to quaff.

Thoroncir could've sworn he still had some of the Elven cordial among his gear.

He will speak to the horses as the Elf-captain bade him.

Deor will cast Invisibility on himself, slip on his minor Ring of Power, and station Folca in a tree to watch for the oncoming enemy. He'll also ask Drindoleth to prepare a line of daises or poppies thirty feet ahead of the party to serve as a marker for a three-foot-tall Wall of Force, hoping to trip or otherwise slow down any wights as they approach. Finally, Deor will lob Fireballs into the enemies ranks from the moment that they come into range until they're too close to the party to risk damage. If there are large numbers of weaker enemies, he'll try to fry as many as possible, since the strongest, oldest wights may not be so vulnerable to his flame.

Mulligan gets out an assorted set of sling stones. Dwarven, chalcedony and the strange skull-etched spellstones. "If anyone has some spare blessings for these, it might come in useful." She takes the sack containing the rod and ties a single piece of rope to each end before looping it over her and keeping it neatly close to her back and out of the way.

Rorimac is happy to take a central point. He will be using a potion of superheroism and will be lighting up the area with Belethil.

"Cwenhild, Wilbur, let's see what Kkosal brings, or indeed if there is anything of him there to hit, other than just a foul spirit controlling some minions. And Cwenhild, lets try to avoid having to spend 6 months in a House of Healing after this fight. I'd prefer to walk away instead of needing a litter."

"Bitur, don't forget to recharge that helmet your borrowed. It would be shame not to use it. I would suggest giving the wand to Gilraen or Deor, so they can recharge it in battle, without you having to worry about it. Deor, might be a good time to get that Golden Brazier burning. If you are planning a Wall of Force, try funneling them in to us, instead of trying to trip them up. If anyone has any Liquid Light, now would be the time to use it."

"... and if the worst does come to pass, I would suggest Mulligan gets on Kali and rides for Bree as fast as she is able."

"Good point with the wand."

Bitur hands the wand to Gilraen.

"The helm has used one charge so far since I acquired it. I have a feeling I'm going to be using more."

Bitur will also use another dose of liquid light on his axe.

(Which should leave him with only one dose remaining, or none, depending on if he had to use two doses in the barrows or not, assuming I've been keeping track correctly.)

Deor will indeed fire up his brazier, chanting as he does so and watching as the signs and sigils in his staff begin to glow faintly. He'll adjust all fire spells first for maximum damage, then for maximum area.

Mulligan looks at the brazier and wonders if she has enough time to make some hot food before the oncoming battle.

Rorimac looks to see if he can lay any quick snares around the area. Anything to slow down and confuse the undead, but one hooked up in a snare is one less undead we have to worry about.

It appears the enemy is waiting about a mile away, probably until the sun sets but you cannot be sure. Does the party wait or attempt to flee? The horses have had a rest at least and are looking better though they cannot sustain the rate they went at to get here.

Gilraen believes we should wait as it might be our best chance to destroy Kkósal.

"He wants, or needs, what we have...so, he will come, though apparently at a time of his choosing. Given the state of our steeds, I do not know that we could make Bree before he overtook us - and I do not think I would want to risk having him enter the village. While I would rather fight him in the daylight, I prefer facing him here, where we have a chance to keep a battlefield of our liking."

"I, too, would prefer to stand and fight," Thoroncir says. "Better that than to be caught on the road in open order, less able to meet the attack."

"Waiting outside for nightfall. How terribly obvious." says Mulligan. "How about we go and see what he has bought with him or even sting him into acting a little early if at all possible before sundown if he is waiting so close to us. Gil-Gandel, your voice can certainly provide succour to those who are friends. Could it, perhaps, cause those unfriendly to do something rash."

It is difficult to play upon the emotions of those who are dead, unfortunately.

From his perch in the tree Gil-Gandel sings to the familiar thrumming of his harp:

It is not in the plan the One has made
That death and hate should triumph over love;
We may be sure that he will lend us aid
Through those Great Ones he sent us from above.
The might of Tulkas strengthens all our hands,
The craft of Aule forges all our swords;
Yavanna grants us life throughout the lands
And Manwe's wisdom - wisest of all lords! -
Will teach us all the art we need to know
While Varda's grace - the Kindler of the Stars -
Will guard and guide us from each evil blow.
For vile undeath, the curse that Arda mars,
Offends the blessed Valar's very sight;
Their benison rests on us all this night.

Then the music stops and as Gil-Gandel begins to chant in a different rhythm, he is limned by a weird, uncanny but -- to those of good heart at least -- kindly light:

Vile folk, dead folk, in your Barrows dwelling,
Power is nearby, vast beyond all telling,
Power you cannot chain, power that none can measure,
Old one, Great one - fear his just displeasure!
In your graves waking yet, when you should be sleeping,
Dream of him who has this land safely in his keeping!
Fear him, flee him - you cannot attempt him!
Skulk below in your tombs - Fools, you dare to tempt him?
Oldest, Fatherless, Singer in the starlight,
Strange beyond imagining - can you see a far light?
Old Tom Bombadil, Earth's mightiest creature,
Keeper of secrets dark, and mine own Teacher!

It is no name to take lightly in vain, but Gil-Gandel trusts that his true discipleship will serve as excuse. :)

Thoroncir hearkens to Gil-Gandel's songs, and peers into the gloom.

If he is setting traps up front, Rorimac will take a closer peek at the oncoming enemy to see if he can see anything of note.

"We will make our stand here. I'd rather face my foe from the front than to take an attack from the back."

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b1...arrowDowns.jpg
Dridoleth casts barkskin on Ceol and everyone other fighter except Bitur who wears plate mail. He casts an additional Plant Growth strengthening the hedge fort and adding more trees.
Deor has his magical Brazier lit and going well. Mulligan had time to make a meal over the well controlled fire. Haladain got two good size fires going within the fort.
When Gil-Gandel songs are done, a few stars shine brightly over the party and his Star Harp glows and twinkles with star light. But nothing else appears to have happened other than some of the darkness and worry is lifted from members of the party.
The wait is long though only an hour. Gil-Gandel and Dridoleth both have Call lightning readied as darkness falls. At one point Wilfrid calls out, “Just attack you foul wraiths and be done with it!”

Finally five dense fog banks approach the camp though none from the north at least. The central one is by far the largest. None can see inside but some fast work with the swords indicate undead within every moving bank.
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Drindoleth lets drop a lightning bolt on the western most fog area, a horrible chorus of shrieks are heard and several ravaged wights come charging out with foully glowing swords.

Gil-Gandel will drop a similar-sized bolt on the next one around (roughly south-west). The biggest fog bank is too large to target very well with Call Lightning, but it might enjoy a Fireball. Then the ravaged wights can have some bow-fire to add to their woes.

"Hold the line. Make them come to us."

Ceol takes a deep breath, and begins to chant a prayer.

Captain Sir Thoroncir, to the right of his good friend Ceol, takes up his gleaming longsword and his strong shield, and prepares for the enemy onslaught.

With a gleam in his eye and a twist of smoke rising from the glowing runes on his staff, Deor cries aloud and unleashes a blast of flame toward the centermost cluster of mist. He'll tweak the fireball's size to ensure that it's large enough to impact the entire fog bank.

Bitur applies the liquid light to his axe and swallows his superheroism potion.

Once the wraiths from the west get into range, Mulligan will start using the sling stones against them

Seeing the oncoming clouds, Rorimac starts lighting the area as brightly as he can with Belethil and takes his superheroism potion as well.

Glinras bellows a tantara of defiance at the vile undead.

Gil-Gandel ‘s Call Lightning causes another disruption and more ravaged smoking wights coming charging out, several with twisted wrecks of weapons.
Deor’s Fireball engulfs the main fog bank and dissipates it completely. Dozens of wights lay charred and dying around a ten foot radius center of total darkness. 3 well armed and armored wights pull into the darkness.
Gilraen makes good use of the the ancient Rod of Kanotir and tosses an extended light spell on the darkness. It reveals in the dim dusky light a tall dark robed figure on a skeletal looking horse with red glowing eyes and a 15 tough looking wights. The wights are all well armed and armored.
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Mulligan lets loose with a pair of Chalcedony stones at one of the ravaged wights from the western group. She hits twice doing 25 and dropping it in midstride.
Everyone else stands ready as the groups continue to close in.
A lightning bolt strikes at Deor and Gilraen … Does Deor try to turn it?

Some extra sense in the recesses of Deor's mind prompts him to look upward, where he sees the formation of a lightning bolt. As the clouds twist and the air charges, Deor plants his feet solidly, thrusts his staff into the air, and cries out his personal Words of Power "For Edoras! For Rohan! For the Rohirrim!" The tip of his staff bursts into an eerie red light, is briefly connected to the clouds by a blinding, jagged bolt of energy, and the lightning bursts out of the staff again, towards...

Personal Word of Power used to enhance turning, naturally.

Deor feels his foe is superior in level and power but he also feels the exhilaration of his word of power and sustained by Gilraen's Song of Estë and Gil-Gandel's blast upon Glinras. He turns the spell just in time and it harmlessly dissipates away.

The parties are now close. Drindoleth bellows I will deal with the party to the East and he heads to cut them off, summons up a circle of fire and changes into a huge bear. Within his circle is Hound to help.

The front line fighters are ready but what do the archers and spellcasters do in this final round before confrontation?

Gil-Gandel will start dropping those smoking wights to ensure they cannot rejoin the fight. Once they're all down, assuming Drindoleth doesn't need any help Gil-Gandel will flame his two swords and Mirror Image himself, then head for the left-hand end of our line and attack the enemy flank, unless (perish the thought!) any of the front line are down, in which case he'll fill in the gap.

Mulligan will continue trying to drop the wights from the far western cloud. She is then likely to climb a tree and provide guidance to those down below.

Deor leans heavily on his staff, points a shaky finger at the easternmost fog bank and gasps out a few short, gutteral words. A Fireball whips outward from his finger.

Thoroncir and Ceol closely watch everything that's happening. They are both more than ready to engage the foe.

Deor's Fireball engulfs the eastern most group as Drindoleth is heading towards it. The fog immediately dissipates into wisps of smoke from the charred ruins of the wights and a few unknown creatures within. Of this group only one wight remains and it looks terribly injured. Drindoleth calls for Gil-Gandel, "Drop the eastern one, I head south." He moves to intercept the southeast group.

Mulligan drops another wight from the western group leaving only 2 injured.
Gil-Gandel sends a pair of +3 Dwarven arrows at the last eastern wight and drops it. He then spins and fires at the southwest group where another pair strike home and leaves only 3 in this group charging the party.

As the undead nearly engage the party's front line, Gilraen sings out, "A Elbereth Gilthoniel o menel palan-diriel, le nallon sí di-nguruthos! A tiro nin, Fanuilos!" It has little apparent effect on tall dark robed figure on a skeletal looking horse but it destroys the 3 injured wights and send the other 15 running from the battle. Thoroncir at least cannot help but to give a cheer at this moment.

Cwenhild, Rorimac and Wilfrid move as one to charge the dark figure. Cwenhild suggests, "Drop the beastly horse fist then the rider once it is down." The 3 swords of the paladins hack, Cwenhild's with more finesse but Wilfrid might bastard sword cleaves deeply the strange horse. It appears badly hurt but does not go down until Rorimac stabs it with his Dúnedain Sword and Kkósal bane. 4 times he hits and the horse appears to fall apart under this attack. A great hissing is heard as this happens but the dark figure sweeps out with his own slender sickly glowing long sword and deals Cwenhild a deep cut in her right shoulder, her Holy sword drops from her useless arm and she turns greenish and pale and drops to the ground gurgling in horror.

Thoroncir sees the unexpected turn of events and charges the figure who must be Kkósal their foe. He strikes him a great slash on his right arm and another past his guard into his left leg. Though his war shield did not damage. The second blow from Kkósal takes Thoroncir in the side but Kálthalion is warm on his side and he is neither drained nor paralyzed and resists the poison on the blade at least for now. He stills takes 19 points of damage.

Ceol leaps over the hedge and cuts off the charging injured wights. Bitur is right behind him. The pair run into the group of 4 wights from the southwest and make short work of them. Bitur's glowing Axe in particular cleaved a pair. Ceol rapid sword work took care of the others with Bitur protecting them both with his shield.

The last 2 reach Cwenhild where she lies and run her through to the horror of the party.

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With Kkósal turned on Thoroncir, Rorimac stabs Kkósal who screeches in pain and horror as his sword again bites deep into Thoroncir for another 18 or 37 total damage. This time Thoroncir also fails prey to the immediate effects of the poison and is down another 20 for 57 total.

Gilraen again sends forth the light of the west and 2 wights standing over Cwenhild drop.

Wilfrid and Thoroncir both strike Kkósal repetitively and are quickly joined by Ceol and Bitur. Gil-Gandel sees 2 wights swinging east around Drindoleth and lets flies 5 arrows into these foes dropping one and injuring the next.

Mulligan rushes for Cwenhild and she is far too far gone to administer potions too. She look dead, but maybe she is only just mostly dead.

Kkósal is still up. His swings hits Thoroncir yet again, this time dropping him.

Drindoleth is battling and blocking his group of wights in a battle of flames, fog and smoke and loud growls and howls.

What does Deor do?

Can you change Mulligan's last action from sending two stones against Kkosal to heading for Cwenhild to see if she is alive, and if so, administering a healing potion to her, 6D8+6 + Sweet Water

With the party so closely engaged in combat, Deor can't use his most effective fire spells. He'll move forwards, toward Kkosal but no closer than fifteen feet, so that he can support the party or they can support him if need be. He readies his staff, prepared to counterspell anything Kkosal casts.

Time for Gil-Gandel to Mirror Image himself and flame his two swords, and see if he can help to grant rest eternal to Kkosal. He has nothing to fear from poison, little from fire, and dreads the fell touch of the undead less than do the sons of Men.

Having seen Cwenhild and then Thoroncir going down, Rorimac will go all out to try and take out Kkosal.

Mulligan will head for Thoroncir to see if anything can be done to help him.

The normally-stalwart Ceol is somewhat shaken by the fall of Cwenhild, then Thoroncir. He focuses his probing attacks with his short sword, for its magic is particularly potent against the undead, as he uses his longsword to parry Kkósal's blade.

"Eonwë, guide our blades", he murmurs.

Mulligan sees that Thoroncir is in far better shape. She gets Thoroncir to drink down the sweet water and this alone brings back conscious. The healing potion restores Thoroncir to being down only 23 points.

Gilraen was racing for her love when he sees him sputtering over and awake from Mulligan’s ministrations. She turns sharply to see if she can aid Cwenhild.

There are now 4 Gil-Gandels all with flaming blades. They begin to approach Kkósal.

Rorimac delivers 4 mighty blows on Kkósal as Wilfrid screams in pain from a critical hit to his stomach. He takes 40 points of damage from the deep cut and another 20 from poison and finally loses a level dropping him to only 60 hit points total and so he goes down.

Ceol & Bitur both strike swiftly and true. From the flank, the hitting is easier and true is their aim. A final great cleaving blowing from Bitur sends Kkósal’s head rolling away from his body.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Drindoleth is still battling a group by himself. Remember he is largely fireproof.

Rorimac follows up by plunging Kkosal's Bane through the chest of the corpse and whatever black heart may lie within. Just to make sure.

Mulligan shouts to Deor, "Fireball by Drindoleth", while pulling out her second Sweet Water potion and administering to Wilfred.

With Kkósal felled, Ceol quickly moves to the fallen Wilfrid, to see if there is any aid he can give to his fellow paladin and Rohirrim.

With Kkosal vanquished, Deor whips around, aims his staff directly at Drindoleth, and lets loose another Fireball.

Thoroncir clambers to his feet. He shakes off the last lingering fear of their terrible foe and the pain of his wounds, and is encouraged by the sight of his true love. Taking up his sword and shield again, he sees that Drindoleth is being adequately supported by others in the party. He decides to move towards Cwenhild, to his right, to render any aid he can.

As he cleaves the head from his foe's body, Bitur then surveys the rest of the battlefield seeing if there's any other aid he can offer and keeping a watch out for any more reinforcements of the enemy's.

Gil-Gandel looks around for any other foes to run down.

With the fireball from Deor it leaves only 2 wights left. One engaged with Drindoleth and one try to flee. Drindoleth is still surrounded by a ring of fire of course.

Gilraen is casting a neutralize poison on Cwenhild and in the meantime Ceol sees that he can at least partially heal Wilfrid's wound. Thoroncir sees Cwenhild has many gaping wounds and can at least begin to bandage them and he remembers that with great blood loss it is good to keep the victim as warm as possible.

Ceol will do what he can to heal (or at least stabilize) Wilfrid, until such time as Gilraen can come to give further assistance.

"Songs will be sung in Edoras of this day, and your role in it, good Wilfrid. Eonwë willing, you will be there to hear them."

Gil-Gandel therefore quickly hurries over to Cwenhild and casts a cure light wounds with the aid of his harp - it is little enough but may help. He also blankets her with his elf-cloak on seeing what Thoroncir is doing.

With most of the wights eliminated, Deor returns to his brazier and begins to warm himself over it, shivering at the effort required to turn that Lightning Bolt.

Gil-Gandel sees that as Gilraen completes her spell, that Cwenhild is beyond help. Her wounds do not bleed, they seep. Her blood loss is already greater then even an Elf could sustain. Gilraen looks despondent trying to save her.

Wilfrid could use additional help but Mulligan's administered Sweet Water bring him around and he looks much better.

Bitur is first to chase down the fleeing wight and he swiftly dispatches it with the axe covered in liquid light. Shortly after Drindoleth finishes off the last of the wights.

Rorimac feels very tired but also warmth from his ring, BELETHIL sustaining him.

Ceol moves to where Gil-Gandel and Gilraen are tending Cwenhild. He sits on the blood-soaked ground beside his countrywoman, leans close to her face, and strokes her hair, quietly singing in Rohirric. Tears are rolling down his cheeks as he does so.

Thoroncir tears off his helmet, falls to his knees and silently begins praying to Estë and all the Valar for their healing aid in Cwenhild's hour of need.

Looking around at what has happened, Mulligan shakes her head sadly and moves back to the braziers, enlisting Deor in making something for everyone, they are likely to need it. There will be time for tears and remembrance from her later.

Rorimac comes back from Kkosal's corpse. "Its over." Looking upon Cwenhild, the light from Belethil goes out as tears fill his eyes. "Cwenhild, when I said I wanted us to both walk away from this, I meant it."

His shoulders shaking, Deor keeps his face turned away from the party as he begins to heat water over his brazier. Cwenhild's immediate survival is out of his hands, but if Gilraen can save her, clean water and warmth will be needful.

Taking a deep breath, Rorimac up straight.

Poor Cwenhild, she followed me her and I cannot lead her home. But we're still on the Barrows and maybe not not safe.

"Haladain, Drindoleth, please check the area, see if anything else is coming. Mulligan, when you are ready, check the those undead that fell for anything magical or unholy we should know about. Gil-Gandel, should we stay here this Night or still head for Bree? This is still the Barrows, but Bree is still a few hours travel."

It is clear Gilraen can do no more for Cwenhild, meanwhile others, especially Wilfrid could use her help. Gilraen seems most distraught.

Drindoleth comes back to the party looking bloodied and matted but gives a great shudder and shrinks down to a normal bear size and then back into human form. He starts checking the area after casting up a Detect Magic.

Mulligan comes back with a cup containing something warm. She puts an arm around Gilraen to comfort her. "Here, drink this. Now, there are others who need you help. You can't help Cwenhild anymore, but Wilfred does need help."

"Mighty are the Beornings," says Gil-Gandel, patting Drindoleth on the shoulder, "and but for you, many more had died this night. We have much to thank you for.

"Rorimac, we shall stay where we are. I judge - and may the Valar help my judgment! - that any of ill will and power had answered our dread foe's call already, and we have naught of consequence to fear; but we have some who are grievously hurt and ought not to be moved until the morn at least."

Gil-Gandel's swords still blaze with their borrowed fire as he thrusts them point-first into the turf next to the fallen knightess of Rohan. He sits cross-legged next to her, the stars of his harp twinkling with a light that speaks of realms above all earthly hurt, and begins to sing.

Go to the place prepared for you,
Child of mortal Men!
Go and receive your well-earned due
In lands beyond our ken.
Short are the years, and full of pain,
Eastward of the Sea;
Sorrow is never for you again,
Though filled with grief be we.
Go to the feasting and the fires,
Daughter of noble heart!
Go and greet them, your mighty sires:
Tell them you did your part.
Go to the never-ending Spring
In the land for ever fair;
Go! For ever dance and sing,
Sun and wind in your hair!
Cold are your limbs, heart's beat is still,
Lifeless your body lies:
Go, spirit, go! where naught is ill,
Beyond the swift sunrise!

"I have not the power to sing back the dying," says Gil-Gandel sadly, "but there is a place beyond the reach of any wight or other tool of the Enemy - even of the Enemy himself - and there the One gathers to Himself all the younger Children; for though their mortal flesh may fail them, they cannot truly die."

A bolt still unused from Gil-Gandel's Call Lightning sears across the darkening sky, as if to warn any of ill will to keep clear.

Gilraen and the others now feels that Cwenhild is safely departed and need fear no harm nor evil.

Gilraen sees to Wilfrid and Thoroncir and shortly she heals them in body if not in soul. For the loss of Cwenhild hit many hard, including Gilraen.

Drindoleth and Haladain report that all looks clear in the immediate area. Gilraen then sees to Drindoleth's wounds.

None of the swords that detect undead are glowing.

Many items on the wights and Kkósal are magical and most of them are evil or tainted with evil. It may require waiting to morning to sort it all out. Though a good precaution is to scatter the items a bit at least before a wight reforms during the night by some ill-luck.

With Cwenhild's soul sped safely on its way, Gil-Gandel gives thought to those left behind. His swords are now extinguished and he puts his harp to one side, but his clear voice carries softly and evenly to the whole camp.

Come, let us shed our bitter tears of grief;
Parting is cruel and hard, and full of pain,
But sleep and rest will bring at last relief.

A life cut down is like a fallen leaf
That blows away before the wind and rain;
Come, let us shed our bitter tears of grief.

Brave friends are lost, their days of joy too brief,
And once departed, never seen again,
But sleep and rest will bring at last relief.

Foul fiends are cruel, surpassing all belief,
And bring a weight of sorrows in their train.
Come, let us shed our bitter tears of grief.

We cannot turn back Time - we would as lief
Have back today, and live it o'er again...
But sleep and rest will bring at last relief.

So mourn a maid who strove with might and main,
Her loss the price of all the good we gain;
Come, let us shed our bitter tears of grief -
But sleep and rest will bring at last relief.

Thoroncir takes Gil-Gandel's words to heart. When Gilraen has a moment free from her healing labors, he embraces her and whispers, "Thank you, my love, for all you have done this day. I am not the only one in this party who would already have died, but for your skills. I know you grieve for Cwenhild, as we all do, but please, do not blame yourself for her passing. That fault lies solely with those who strove to slay her, and they are no more."

Drindoleth asks, "Should we bury our fallen friend here near the road or should she be borne back to her home with honors? I can think of no greater eulogy then that which Gil-Gandel just sang for her."

Ceol knows that no shortage of Knights of the Mark have been buried near their battlefield. It is rare to try and bring a body back the distance required save in the case of royalty.

Ceol finishes a prayer, then gently places Cwenhild's head on the ground, and stands. His face is streaked with blood, dirt, and tear stains.

"Thank you, Gil-Gandel, for your song. I agree with Drindoleth -- no knight of the Mark could ask for a better eulogy. It is the way of our people to bury our fallen warriors nearby, rather than transport them back to Rohan. If we feel that we are far enough removed from the Barrow-Downs that this can be hallowed ground, then we should, indeed, bury dear Cwenhild here, or nearby."

"I agree," says Thoroncir, "but suggest we rest now and take counsel together in the morning, ere we consign her to the earth. I would be honored to stand vigil over brave Cwenhild during my watch tonight."

"Thank you, friend Thoroncir...I think that is wise council. I believe that she would have considered it to be a tremendous honor to have you watch over her tonight. I, of course, will stand vigil, as well."

"We are near to the road and no wraiths have been seen this far by themselves. A glade here would be a fitting resting place. Thoroncir, I believe we would all be willing to stand vigil at some point during our watch, if only to say goodbye." says Rorimac.

The only corpse Mulligan specifically makes a note of scattering items from is Kkosals.

The evening and early night pass quietly. The remains are carefully scattered. Around 8:30 pm a small troop from Bree approaches led by Meriadoc. "Hail and well met, how fare thee?"

"Welcome, O great Meriadoc," replies Thoroncir, bowing. "It's good to see you again. We have vanquished our foe, but at a great cost. Come, see: Cwenhild, shieldmaiden of Rohan and our companion for far too short a time, has fallen gallantly in battle."

"Father, you have arrived. I wasn't sure if you would be able to get here. It looks like we have achieved what we set out to do, but the price has been high." says Rorimac

Ceol bows. "Indeed, welcome, o Meriadoc. The tidings of our battle have already been given to you, and, as you can see, we are a somber camp this evening. Nonetheless, it is good to see you, and these fine warriors. We believe that, here, we are far enough from the Downs to spend the night safely, but a larger contingent makes for an even-safer camp, I suspect...and, your company will be appreciated on this evening."

With the arrival of more people, Mulligan starts directing them to area they can camp without disturbing everyone.

Rorimac asks if he can talk to his father alone, about the responsibility of leading parties like this and that he feels partly responsible for Cwenhild being there.

Meriadoc has as much time as Rorimac needs. "I'm proud of you son. These friends of yours have done much good and tonight did a great service to the Kingdom. As to Cwenhild, she struck me as someone that knew her mind and knew the risks. It is very hard but it takes sacrifice quite often to fight the enemy. Your uncle Frodo was willing to sacrifice all and willingly gave up his beloved home in the end to destroy the Ring and thus the Dark Lord of old. I am proud to call Theoden my lord and my friend though I knew him only a short time. He knew death was on the battlefield that dark morning but still road willingly into danger and died prouder and braver then all but few men in the end."

He pauses, "It never gets easier to tell the truth but you do get more use to it. In the Battle of Bywater, the last battle in the War of the Ring, we lost 19 good, brave Hobbits. Young and old and all dearly missed. But without our actions and their loss, more would have suffered and died at the hands of Saruman."

As one after another of the company stand vigil over the departed, Gil-Gandel's harp plays a solemn, heart-rending dirge, yet not without an air of hope unconquerable, and this continues far into the night.

Hopefully the Night passes quietly, but solemnly

Deor passes the night over his brazier, his face turned away from the rest of the party, and his shoulders shaking.

As Ceol takes his turn in Cwenhild's vigil, he takes heart from Gil-Gandel's playing. He alternates between prayers, and old Rohan epics, which he recites in Rohirric.

After his turn finishes, he walks near to Deor.

"My cousin...you do not seem well, and I worry for you. On a night of sorrow and remembrance, you sit apart from the rest of us. Do you wish to talk?"

After standing vigil, Thoroncir will go to Gilraen, if she is still awake. "Are you well, my lady?"

Gilraen looks tired and worn. After a pause she replies, "I am weary and distraught. I feel like I should have been able to save Cwenhild. She was only mostly dead. I think when we return the item to Rivendell, I might stay for a few years. My father I believe could have saved Cwenhild, I need to spend more time on my craft. I hope you understand."



The night will indeed pass quietly but continue conversations for now.

Thoroncir's heart turns over at Gilraen's words. "You must not compare yourself to your father in such a way as to disadvantage you, my love. He is much older than you, and as all know, the hands of the King are the hands of healing. You did all you could, and all anyone could ask of you, given your age, experience and training."

Gil-Gandel ambles over, still playing, and does not interrupt his harping during the following:

I pray you will excuse me, for keen are the ears of the Elves even for that which does not concern them, yet I have naught but love for the pair of you and must ask you to forgive me if I speak out of turn. My lady - thy Father came not to his full power all in a day, nor without many years of sorrow. Of the long labours of Thorongil the Elves indeed sing, yet know not all, nor sing they of all they know (and thou must ask thy Father for the whole tale, if indeed he see fit to burden the ears of his daughter). Some of the power that rests in him comes by right of Kingship, which we pray for thy good brother's sake will indeed be vested never in thee; more was won by bitter experience. Do not measure thyself against him, for the path that he trod perhaps none will ever tread again and if thou hast less bitter experience than he then this is cause for rejoicing and not sorrow. Do only that which is thy part.

You have heard it said that the Elves will say both no and yes and should not be gone to for advice, and hence I will not advise thee, Lady, to go or to stay, to do or to let be, to speak or to be silent. Yet only this advice I will give, that whatever scale thou seek to measure thyself by, let it be one that is just to thee.

Thoroncir nods and smiles gratefully. "Well said, O Elf-captain, and just so. My thanks. Heed his words, my lady, I beg you."

Mulligan buries herself in making sure the camp is set up and that everyone is settled.

Rorimac spends some more time talking to his father before spending it in close vigil over Cwenhild.

The playing continues softly and plaintively through the longest night Gil-Gandel can recollect.

The Morning comes quietly. It is a beautiful day but a day of decisions. Kkósal is dead but the cursed rod still needs to be attended to. Cwenhild will need burial. The items still curses will need to be divided carefully and slowly cleansed.

Meriadoc suggests, "We can send from people from Bree and the Shire to take some of the minor items and coins and thus scatter them."

Gilraen speaks up, "I believe we need to make for Rivendell, I have hopes that Glorfindel or my uncles will know how to destroy the rod."

"An excellent suggestion, Master Meriadoc. Also I will ride for Bree shortly to call for such as have no other work to come here and help raise Cwenhild's Mound. Many hands will speed the task, and we are well able to pay them for their labours.

"Yes, Gilraen. Since Imladris is nearer than the Havens or Lorien, that is the wisest course of action. We should send ahead when we are near, for they may not wish for such an unclean object on their own soil."

"I can stay behind and assist with the design and building of the mound."

"While I would like to stay here and oversee the laying to rest of my shield-sister, if the rest of you feel I should accompany the main group to Rivendell, I will agree to this."

"Any scattering of evil objects ought to be done where passersby and travelers will not pick them up and carry them away, not knowing of their fell nature," Thoroncir says. "Where should we do so?" Of course he will accompany Gilraen to Rivendell, if that is her destination.

Rorimac will stay behind and help to raise a cairn over Cwenhild, it's the least he could do for her.

Mulligan will be taking the Rod to where-ever the best place to deal with it is, in the shortest possible time.

"So. Raise a cairn to our honored dead, and thence to Rivendell?" the Sea-knight captain asks.

If there are enough large stones to hand to raise a cairn, then by all means, but otherwise a mound or howe. We need not leave many behind to attend to the funeral - we have made our farewells in fitting manner already by song and by silent vigil, and Bitur and Rorimac will be enough to oversee those from Bree who are able to raise the mound for us.

Ceol nods in agreement at Gil-Gandel's suggestions. "That should be more than sufficient, I would think. I would then accompany the group to Rivendell."

Rorimac nods, "Bitur and I will join you in Rivendell once we are finished here. We should only be a couple of days behind at the most. Hopefully, you will know what needs to be done by the time we get there."

Not too far into the day a large number of Hobbits and Humans begin to show up on the road. A large work crew ends up being organized to build a grave and cairn. By 10am a second shift arrived with tools and/or stones. As the people do their small service they each leave with a small amount of treasure from the various barrows cleared.

There are many items to identify and carefully divide ensuring no one takes more then one item from any given barrow.

Rorimac starts organising the work crews, it may take most of the day as he wants to raise something a little more than just a small grave in the grove left behind. He can wait until some other time to get his items identified, if the others are moving on.

While Rorimac is organizing the workers, Bitur works with the volunteers who are working on the design to make sure the structure will last for many centuries.

Deor will identify as many items as possible, and take all the steps possible to protect all the workers from any evil items that he finds.

I will go over the items and assume they will be identified by the time the party reaches Rivendell. Bitur, Ceol and Rorimac should not be far behind and Rorimac knows the way into the hidden valley.

I'll try to get the items determined sometime today if I get a chance. Of course, the smaller party carrying the evil artifact cannot expect to reach Rivendell without problems, can they?

Party members can safely take an item from each of the 6 different barrows. This means with some of the small barrows, some members would take jewelry instead. No piece is worth more then 100gp. The excess items will need to fine some good homes fast. They can be left with Merry to dispose of if the party likes. The bulk of the gold & jewelry will go to the volunteer workers and the silver and copper will be scattered well.

Treasure form the Trolls: 436 GP, 745 SP, 1265 CP. In silver & gold objects weighing about 60 pounds another 400 gold worth of stuff.

From the King’s Barrow: 1 Item each, rest must be dispersed somehow.
Elven Mithril Chain +5 (no save bonus)
Mithril Helm +3 (no save bonus)
Bracers +2 (with armor) (no save bonus)
+5 knife is poisonous causing either 20 damage or 10 on a save.
+4 Númenórean Long Sword: Detect Orcs/Undead at 400’. Is +5 vs. Orcs, Trolls & Undead.
Elven Cloak of Lothlórien: +2 AC, +50% hide.
Elven Chain Mail +3
6 Númenórean Steel Arrows +4 each. Troll piercing (no penalties vs. Troll Hide) do 2x damage (A safe set)
12 Númenórean Steel Arrows +3 each. (Would be safe to take up to 12 as a set)
2 +5 Mithril tube arrows, unbreakable and do max damage vs. Undead. (A safe set)
+3 Númenórean Steel Strong Bow.
Pouch: keeps three doses of any herb fresh, and contains three doses of Athelas
Harp: perfectly in tune, with unbreakable strings (gut) would give a roughly 10% bonus for music related.
+3 Shield,
Woven Númenórean gold belt: Set with gems worth 500 gp; adds +1 to the wearer's charisma & command.
Jeweled comb: Keeps hair perfectly in place;
Elven Cloak +1; Elven Boots +1 AC (safe to take pair, really one item effectively)
Ring of Blinding; affects one target within 100'; target must resist or become blind for 1-100 rds; RR failure by more than 100 results in permanent blindness; usable twice per day. Gives +10 saves vs. Darkness attacks.
Emerald Pendant of Herblore +25% Herbology;
Jeweled comb: Keeps hair perfectly in place;
Elven Cloak +1; Elven Boots +1 AC (safe to take pair, really one item effectively)
+5 Chain Mail (for good size human)
+3 Helm
+5 War Shield (Dwarven)
+4 Long Sword
Needle of stitching (would make mending x10 effectiveness or allow a seamstress to work twice as fast,
Medallion of Hope: Gives +4 levels for save vs. Fear, Drains & Death & to Turn and +33% morale.
Ring of slowing ravages of aging, cost 1 level to activate but user will be youthful until death. Does not extend life though other than keeping up better resistance to diseases at advances age. So a Hobbit would likely live to 110+ and a human to 80+ and a Dúnedain range greatly. It won’t help Elves or Dwarves.
+3 Knife
+2 shield
+2 Long Sword
+1 Short Sword
+2 Mace
+1Shield
+2 Knife
Large Backpack no encumbrance & resists magic
Gauntlets of Great Strength (18:00)
Scabbard prevents rust and sword stored in it will be like sharpness for the first strike and wounding for the second
Boot of leaping (like a permanent jump spell)
500 GPs, Necklace worth 300gp, Rings worth 200, 100, 50 & 50gp, Scepter worth 600gp, 3751 SPs

From Valandur's barrow. 1 Item each, rest must be dispersed somehow.
+4 magic chain mail (Man size) (Bitur indicates it is Dunedain craft and probably +4)
+4 magic longsword: +10 versus orcs. (runes indicate vs. orcs but it is not Elvish.)
+3 short bow.
Fifteen +3arrows. (Would be safe to take up to 12 as a set)
Set of 3 + 2 magic daggers (A safe set)
Mithril Arrow of Dragonslaying: worth 10 gp.
Text: Complete list of Ranger spells, for learning only.
+3 short sword Dwarven made Short sword from the Blue Mts. Belegost
+3 short sword Dwarven made Short sword from the Blue Mts. Belegost
800 gp in gems, jewelry and 225 gold coins of ancient mintage.

The wights of the final battle came from 4 different barrows. Many of their items were destroyed by Fireball or Lightning.
1) 350 gp worth of jewelry.
+3 long swords
+3 Long sword
+3 suit of chain mail (Man size)
+2 plate mail (Man size)
+2 Long composite bow.
+2 Bard (or Lay Healer) spell adder (cast all spells as if 2 levels higher)
+2 shield
+2 shield
+1 long sword
+1 suits of chainmail
+1Shields of Sword taking. Sword at tacks against bearer which fail by 2 result in attacker's sword being grabbed by the shield Magic swords resist using their wielder's lvl versus shield bearer's lvl.

2) 220 gp worth of jewelry.
+3 Gondolin Long Sword vs. Orcs. Detects out to 900’ x2 damage vs. orcs.
+3 chainmail. (Man size)
A silver comb that removes tangles magically.
Book of spells and chants that is fire proof and fire trapped. Mage spells, needs to be dispelled.
+2 long sword.
+1 chainmail (Child or Hobbit size)
+3 slender short sword. Will give backstab bonus of extra +2 to hit and extra damage multiplier, if thief gets x3, with this sword x4 damage.

3) 150 gp worth of jewelry.
+3 Long sword
+3 suit of chain mail (Man size)

4) 350 gp worth of jewelry.
+2 longsword for Trollslaying. +3 vs. trolls and x2 damage. Dunedain make.
+3 breastplate
+3 shield.
+2 mace.
Non-rusting scabbard: Protects sword from attacks, prevents rust, will change shape for Short sword to 2 handed.
+1 helm.

"My vows as a servant of Eonwë dictate that I may take little in treasure for myself, though I will gladly bear what I can and should away from this place. I will then find worthy young members of my order to receive these treasures, when we return south through Rohan."

When the party had originally felled the Wight-King, Ceol had expressed interest in the Emerald Pendant (which turns out to be "of Herblore +25% Herbology"); he still would like to bear this. If any of the armor from the lesser wights' hordes is better than what he currently wears, he will take such a suit; otherwise, he will take what treasure needs to be taken to help disperse the horde for the moment, but not for his own long-term possession.

Gil-Gandel's eyes widen at the sight of a splendidly-wrought coat of mithril mail (from the King's Barrow). For beauty and utility it fully justifies a revision of his no-armour policy. The spell adder from "Barrow No. 1" looks well worth acquiring too. Unfortunately the harp represents no real improvement over his own.

While we should pay the labourers well by their usual measure, I feel the bulk of the monetary treasure should go to the Bree town council to be spent for the good of the town and its environs, by someone who will be answerable in due course to the King or one of his agents. It is a large amount of wealth to be dropped into the pockets of the Bree-folk and it will do little good if it merely sees local prices go through the roof for a while!

Thoroncir, too, is concerned about the impact that such a hoard may have on the local populace and their economy. There are several things he wouldn't mind having for himself, but nothing he would insist upon. He will otherwise donate his share to the Order of Sea-knights.

"But does anything catch your eye, my lady?" he asks his beloved.

And apropos nothing, as the party is heading for Rivendell their way takes them by a watercourse one evening where a whiting of swans is swimming. Gil-Gandel takes his harp and, over a continuo that ripples like a gently-flowing river, he begins to sing:

Graceful I live by the waterside,
Nesting beneath the spreading willow tree;
Calm and serene on the stream I glide,
Stately and beautiful as all may see.
Never a note in my bill have I,
Silent as snowfall until I die,
Then, when my last day is fading,
Into the chill waters wading,
Finding my music, I once may keen,
Grieving for life so sweet and swiftly gone!
Haunting in starkness and fading in darkness,
The song, the dying song of the Swan.

Deor peruses the loot. There are many fascinating items here, especially from the King's Barrow, including a few with enchantments that Deor has only ever read of in the dustiest of ancient codices. He will happily cede his claims on any given item in favor of any other party member's claim, but his desires are as follows:

From the King's Barrow:
1st: The Ring of Extended Youth is Deor's first preference, primarily as a curiosity. The enchantments on it are truly elegant, and even if he never actually uses it, the possibility for learning is tremendous. Deor does, however, realize that such a treasure is of great interest to those in the group who rely on their physical prowess for their career and for those who are actively courting long-lived half-elves, so his second choice is:
2nd: The Medallion of Hope. Deor is still quite nervous about his ability to hold up against the more terrifying foes that he seems to frequently encounter. However, the increased powers against the undead would suit Gilraen much better, so his third choice is:
3rd: The Ring of Blindness seems like a powerful and non-violent addition to Deor's abilities. He's a little troubled by his inflexibility in combat, simply burning the first wave of enemies and being unable to do very much to the second wave, let alone do something relatively nonviolent to an enemy. Failing that, though, Deor prefers:
4th: Elven Boots with +1 AC. Deor hopes that with two of these on the list, no one will contest this, and they sure do look comfortable.

From Valandur's Barrow:
Nothing here is of particular interest. Deor will take his share in coinage.

From the wights of the final battle:
Only the book of magic spells is of particular interest. For the rest, Deor will take cash.

Rorimac looks over the pile of treasure as well.

Looking at the King's Barrow, the Elven Mithril Chain is probably too large for him, though the Gauntlets of Great strength would be ideal, but only if they are not too large as well. Otherwise, the 6 Troll-piercing Númenórean arrows would do.

From Valandur's barrow, the Text of Ranger spells would be ideal for him to start learning from.

The material from the other barrow is a touch too large for him and he will pass on it.

He does suggest setting aside what would have been Cwenhild's share and passing it back to her family in honour of her sacrifice, if that would be acceptable.


~~~~~~~

Mulligan looks at the poisonous knife, but decides against it as it's not the kind of weapon she wants to wield. Amongst the rest, only the slender short sword holds any interest and is of a size she can wield. The non-rusting scabbard may be appreciated by Heliox though.

"Bitur, Drindoleth? Was there anything you wanted to claim from the hoard?" asks Rorimac.

From the King's Barrow, Bitur will take the +5 Dwarven War Shield.

From the rest of the barrow treasures, Bitur is fine with a share of jewelry or similar.

"Then let's be off to Rivendell, shall we?" asks Mulligan. "This Rod is not getting any less evil now that Khosal is gone. And who knows who else might try to recover it now it is in the open."