Middle Earth FA64 D&D Game: Sixth Adventure - Harrying Harad by Sea.

First the disclaimer: The thread is for the game itself. Questions and peanut gallery stuff should go on the control thread:
D & D on the Straight Dope setup thread. (In Middle Earth FA63)

First Adventure Thread
Middle Earth FA63 D&D Game, the Second Adventure, Scouting Ered Lithui
Middle Earth FA63 D&D Game, Third Adventure, Ered Lithui Mystery Creature
Middle Earth FA63 D&D Game. Fourth Adventure. Journey to Rivendell
Middle Earth FA63 D&D Game: Fifth Adventure - War in Goblin Gate.
Middle Earth FA64 D&D Game: Sixth Adventure - Harrying Harad by Sea
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It is February 5^th and the Party has gathered back at the Hobbit house. Pippin, Meriadoc, Ponto and a young Hobbit named Ruddy Banks are is residence. On behalf of her father, Gilraen asks her friends. "Would the party be willing to ride south to war with my father? He would actually use us as a special scouting group to support some marine operations. Sir Thoroncir would be the official Liaison to the army and navy with the rank of Sea Knight Captain. Internally the party would of course still be free to decide leadership."

The party will be put on the newest and largest ship of Gondor. The 240’ foot long, “The Elendil”. 50’ wide at the max and carries 40 Sea Knight and horses plus a few spare. 160 foot soldiers and a crew of 89. It is shallow draft and carries square sails on two tall masts and 30 long sweeps to row. The Elendil has live oak and cedar construction with fine brass fittings. The bow is a huge 40’ ramp for rapid discharge of the troops on a beach. Another watertight ramp drops down on top of the 40’s ramp once the Elendil is beached.
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The Role Call
Gwaelur son of Gwaelin – NAF1138 - Fighter, Dwarf of the Glittering Caves. 6th level Age: 135
Bitur son of Bofur - Hoopy Frood - Fighter, Dwarf of Erebor. 6th level Age: 180
Sir Thoroncir, Knight-Errant– Elendil’s Heir - Fighter, Man of Gondor, a Sea-Knight of Linhir 6th level Age: 21
Princess Gilraen (Renee)- NPC – Beautiful young woman of Gondor and trained Healer of Estë 7th level Age: 17
Gil-Gandel – Malacandra – Bard 1st, Sindar ("Grey Elf") 6th level F/Th Age: 624
Rorimac Brandybuck - CatInASuit – Hobbit Ranger 5th Age: 45
Mulligan Took – CatInASuit - Burglar, Hobbit (Daughter of Peregrin Took's Sister) 6th level Age: 30 (From a larger family)
Hraedsig - Shadowfacts– Paladin of Eönwë 5th of Rohan, Age: 28
Ghân-buri-ghan – glee - Druid, Wild Man ("Wose") 7th level Age: 20
Deor – appleciders – Mage of Rohan (Brother of Theogrim) 5th level Age:20 (From a very large family)
Theogrim - OneCentStamp – Knight of Rohan (Brother of Deor) 4th level Age:24 (From a very large family)
Dugar son of Lugar - WhtWulf – Khazâd Warrior and Weapon Smith 4th level Age: 85
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Folca: Deor’s really well trained Red Tailed Hawk. He is often invisible.
Cúran: A very swift and well-trained horse of the Elves, Gil-Gandel’s mount.
Kali: A fine Silver Grey Mare of exception stock. Her lines trace back to Shadowfax. She is Gilraen’s mount.
Missy: The strange green eyed, white fur cat, companion of Gilraen. It will not talk to Ghân but seems very intelligent and dutiful to Gilraen. She is an excellent night guard and usually invisible now thanks to Deor. She is apparently a descendent of Mirëgol’s ancient cat Warrior.
Windfoot: a mighty Mearas and Hraedsig’s mount.
Windwing: huge Golden Eagle and Friend of Ghân.
Anca the War Dog: He is over 200 lbs, looks like a long legged English Mastiff. He stands a 36” at the shoulder and is long legged.
Fang: The ¾ Wolf Friend of Ghân
Freyja: A Wildcat with Mulligan that is from Ered Lithui. She speaks occasionally.
Moose: An occasional talker and Orc Killer. He was last seen heading west from Ered Lithui.
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Some background, it is 64 years since the Bearers of the Three Rings left Middle-earth for the Uttermost West and 66 since Sauron and Barad-Dûr fell.

King Elessar & Queen Arwen are in their prime and young Prince Eldarion is in his early training at age 21. There is still a constant struggle to tame the brown lands, Umbar, Harad, Nurn and the North. The court summers in Evedim near the lake and spend 9 months in Minas Tirith. Aragorn has campaign more often than not in the last 64 years, but far less than the prior 67. He and Arwen have had 4 daughters. Silmariën (FA45), Gilraen (FA47), Telperiën (FA51) & Fíriel (FA55)

Legolas has removed a small number of his people to Ithilien to support Prince Faramir in this fair land. He visits the courts of Faramir, Elessar, Éomer and Gimli son of Gloin often. His beautiful sister Elenwë is adventuring and rides a Minaras (Unicorn)

Faramir and Éowyn have two sons: Elboron (FA3) & Caramir (FA7). Both are hardy Warriors. They say that Prince Elboron has the look of his father and Caramir of his mother’s people. Prince Caramir is a great Horseman and loves his visits to his Uncle. Both appear to take strongly after Faramir as they are aging slowly. It has been noted that Éowyn has remained very youthful for all her long years. She could be taken for Éomer’s daughter or even granddaughter rather than his sister. She looks to be in her 50s more than her late 80s. Some wonder if this was a gift of King Elessar’s healing or a reward for slaying the Witch King of Angmar. Faramir is of course still a hale and hardy man. A little over a hundred he too looks to be in his 50s.

Currently Minas Tirith and their allies are fighting a two front war in the South and a Campaign wiping out orc lairs in Ered Lithui and around Nurn. Gondor is expanding and trying to build up a large force of horseman to supplement the Riders of Rohan. They are building a great road to Rhûn to create trade and build an alliance. They also hope to increase trade to Erebor & Dale. There is a project underway at a slower pace to improve travel along the Anduin. It is expected to take decades. Dark tidings arrived out of Rhûn brought by Hodwain the Beorning Bard. There is apparently unrest and some organized evil activity out near the Sea and beyond.

Dol Amroth is still the great Principality of Gondor. It is under the wise care of Prince Elphir (TA2987), son of Prince Imrahil of course. Sister to Lothíriel the Queen of Rohan. His eldest son Alphros (TA3017)is the Commodore of the Gondor Fleet and commands the great and swift flagship the Amroth.

King Éomer has passed away leaving the behind his widow, Queen Lothiriel of Dol Amroth. King Elfwine, his eldest now leads in all things. He is seeking the hand of Silmariën. Elfwine is a tall man of 6' 5" with blond hair and piercing blue eyes. His features show a bit of elvish influence of his mother's side. He speaks with a deep voice and looks to be no more than 30 years old but he is probably 50. He uses a long sword and Gwaelur knows that Elfwine was given a fine chain mail shirt as a gift from Gimli. The Chief Mearas likes the new King, his best son is Prince Elfwine's partner. They think he is a very good human.

In 61 Samwise Gamgee left Middle-earth via Mithlond. Merry and Pippin got their affairs in order and headed south to live in Gondor. Mulligan Took was among their escort. Samwise’s eldest Grandson Elfstan Fairbairn joined the group after visiting Minas Tirith. Faramir Took son of Pippin is the Thain and the Shire’s greatest Warrior since Meriadoc the Magnificent. Mulligan’s Brother Ponto Took is an excellent archer and a good treasure finder.

Arnor is repopulating as is the Anduin Valley. The Shire’s population is growing and their produce is helping to feed the North and even the South. They have steady wains heading to and from the Dwarves of Ered Luin. They are even supplying produce and pipe weed to the Grey Havens in exchange for salted & smoked fish.

Elladan and Elrohir of course remain the Masters of Rivendell and assist in the running of Arnor. They in no way have finished with hunting Orcs. Indeed, they have driven the Goblins far underground with their constant attacks on Goblin Gate and often roam north against Angmar itself. Elladan, Elrohir and Glorfindel seem tireless these days in hunting the scattered remains of these ancient enemies to the North. They often leave the care of Rivendell to the wise Celeborn. He did leave a thriving Sindarin kingdom in Southern Greenwood from where Gil-Gandel most recently hailed.

Thorin III Stonehelm rules the Durin Folk (Khazad). He rules from Erebor of course. His lords include Gimli in Aglarond, Lord Gíon of the Iron Hill and some lesser lords in the Blue Mountains and Fornost. The Dwarves are again thinking of Khazad-dûm. Dori and Bofur are still alive, but quite venerable and rich. Bofur is acting as the ambassador to Rivendell and Arnor as needed.

A bridge at Tharbad has been built and the great bridge is nearly rebuilt. Tharbad is already a thriving and growing town under the command of Lord Mayor Ianthír (Bridge Lord). He is Ranger of the North and the son of Aragorn's most loyal friend Halbarad. The population is mostly just men of Eriador. There are small Dwarven and Hobbit communities.

The Great South road is rebuilt and maintained from Fornost to Minas Tirith. All the additional trade has brought much prosperity to Bree and the town and the Prancing Pony have both expanded. Fornost is still small, but growing. Most of the remaining Northern Dúnedain have moved near Fornost.

Year 63 in review:

Going further back, Hodwain got his help near Rhûn from the Prince. Legolas leading 20 elven archers, Gimli leading 20 Dwarf Vets, Meriadoc leading Ponto, Taur Ernil leading his party and Captain Helton of Lebennin leading 20 Gondor Light Calvary with Lady Penlinna meet with Hodwain, Belem the Bowyer, local chieftain of the elves and Taur Ernil’s father leading 50 secretive elven archers, Lord Cirya of Dorwinian and his daughter Daelhaelin Cirya a young mage lead 50 border guards, Hodwain and his uncle Terthan a Beorning fighter, Bôm of the Rhûn Dwarves and 120 sailors assaulted and took out Minas Falath held by an Evil and powerful wraith. In the end it was Meriadoc that killed the Wraith with a timely backstab and another lost rune blade.


Meanwhile Caramir has had great success up in Ered Lithui. The orcs have been systematically routed week by week and month by month. Some head east and many are now working on building the roads. Most lay dead in large covered pits or in collapsed caves and chambers.


Aragorn has been in Minas Tirith since October. The southern campaigns are going well. Eldarion was acting as an officer to one of Aragorn’s most trusted commanders and leading a company in battle and learning much more about tracking and scouting at other times.


The Gondor Navy is growing quicker than it can be manned. They recently had a very successful raid to the south and captured a dozen large galleys. Additionally the Navy’s newest Cavalry fast transports have completed their sea trials and are ready for use in the next campaign. The Sea Knights are being gathered to support the Army by sea. Once again Rohan will lend several companies to support the Sea Knights. A weather wizard is in the position of second in command of fleet behind the Prince Heir Alphros of Dol Amroth.


FA63 was a very good year for the Free People of the West. Ered Lithui has been subdued, Goblin Gate cleared, Angmar is running scared and their campaign foiled and even Mt Gundabad has had recent reverses. The lost without a clue and entire Goblin army north of Goblin Gate and the Werewolf and Warg population in Eastern Eriador has been decimated. Greenwood is slowly cleaning up and Rhûn had foiled a devastating plot and possible swung the balance of power to the Northern people and away from the Easterlings on the south shore. In the South Aragorn had only success and the roads from Minas Tirith have been made safer and more secure as the Bridge of Tharbad and its harbors near completion. It is also a year where a druid as achieved the level of shape changer and another is ready. Umbar and the City of the Corsairs are firmly under Gondor’s control again.

FA64 is off to a good start. Glorfindel is planning a series of serious raids against Angmar as Goblin Gate is consolidated and shared among Dwarves, Men and even a small Hobbit Colony on the Western side of the mountains. Bjorn the Beorning Druid becomes the second and probably most powerful Druid shape changer. Prince Elfwine plans to lead several thousand on the campaigns in support of King Aragorn. Shelob may well be killed and if so the pass into Mordor could be opened before the year ends. Prince Caramir expects to be able to ride south and support Riglo around Nurn to secure this as a safe land for the King’s subjects. Little by little Mordor is becoming safer and more secure.

A large expedition of heroes is formed led by Legolas, Lady Elenwë, Gimli, Captain Meriadoc, Prince Elboron and Taur Ernil to kill Shelob and clear the pass to Mordor at the end of February. They leave on February 24th.
For clerics they had Lady Penlinna who is the chief healer of Estë, Vern Smith a cleric of Aulë and Alma Priestess of Vairë who is the highest cleric at 13th level. With Meriadoc came Ponto Took. Legolas and Lady Elenwë and her Minaras Neeya led 30 more Elves of Lórien and Ithilien. Gimli lead Floin son of Oin, Vini Hammerhead and 50 more Dwarves. Prince Elboron the eldest son of Faramir and Éowyn led 30 men of Ithilien. Benhir the Paladin 33 years old and the son of Bergil is his bodyguard. Drevi the Mage/Alchemist and Deor’s Master joined them, eager for Shelob’s poison sac. Taur Ernil a Silven Ranger from northeast of Rhûn leads his party of Bjorn the Beorning Druid, Bokken the Captain of the Guard for Thranduil for so many years, Felyahin a silven fighter and treasure finder also from Rhûn, Mirëgol the ancient but very youthful Noldo Mage who now rides Neeya’s Foal, Bruzer the Dwarf and Nico the young human archer from Greenwood.

As the battle rages, Dugar son of Lugar, Theogrim and Sandy Proudfoot are waiting with a small group of brave men to cut off the retreat back to the port. They have seen great ships of Gondor make landings led by amazing sight of The Elendil herself. It is a great sight and huge. The two huge masts stand over 100' tall.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b1...he_Elendil.jpg
They partially see and the rest they will learn later. The Elendil carries two large trebuchets and 12 ballistae (that were made by the Dwarves). The bow is very odd. It is split supporting a false flat bow that is really the 40' long ramp 20' wide. It has a true (water tight) bow door that lets the Sea Knights charge down the ramp, very shallow bottomed, well designed for beach landing. Aft windlass for long anchors aid the 30 sweeps in pulling back of the beach.

They see the men of Gondor have the landing in hand and wait to disrupt the retreat.

Mulligan turns invisible swiftly and hurries off, no idea where to find Rorimac now. Rorimac makes it to and across the ford as the men begin to cross. He is just ahead of them on the way back. He will be able to sneak inside without doing anything but being among them when it is time. Mulligan is just heading for where she expects to find Rorimac near the gates.

Bitur rejoins the fray and has the reassurance of his tough plate mail to protect him. He is swiftly back to destroying the foe. Gwaelur is loading and firing his magical crossbow with deadly accuracy. His +2 bolts increasing his chance of hitting and killing.

The nearby men are lifted by the defeat of the two leader types and the rallying call of Glinras. Gil-Gandel’s bow begins to pick apart the foes. Deor sees his message being relayed to near the mage and the wyvern.

Hraedsig has cleared the last of the ballistae on the left and an additional 12 knights have joined him. He sees the defenders are fleeing for the main part now. It appears the landing will be successful. Hraedsig strikes for the ford to cut off the main retreat.

Ghân sees several things as he climbs up as does Deor through Folca. A large army is coming on from the East, the men fleeing are really fleeing. They are mostly heading East or South to the port. He has successfully collected the Wizard’s belongings for later use including a heavy pair of saddle bags on the wyvern’s body. He has relayed them to safety on The Elendil and returned to assist Gilraen in healing. He has swiftly depleted his Goodberries as he attends men and horses. He is now flanked by Fang and Anca as Windwing the huge Golden Eagle flies high. Anca is quite adept at finding those enemies nearby still alive and ripping out their throats.

Folca does a closer fly by and finds it is 4 armies in all. The rear two armies are flying the flags of Gondor and Rohan. The front in an orderly retreat moving faster than the slower parts of the Gondor army but too strong for the Calvary to effectively harass.

Gil-Gandel sees he must lead the archers across the ford to affect the retreat and the much larger retreating armies from the east.

The Landing
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b1...TheLanding.jpg

Gwaelur is down by 38 of 82 as Gilraen did a Cure Serious for 34 and 8 Goodberries.
Bitur gets back 23 using his potion and is down 14 of his 71 as Gilraen gave Bitur 8 Goodberries and a Cure Light for 18
Thoroncir is down 1 points of damage as Gilraen did a Cure Serious for 40 and 0 Goodberries.
Sea Foam is dead but Thoroncir has some other’s horse at the moment.

Mulligan and Rorimac are invisible
Deor has used a Fireball[/color] on the Wyvern.
Glee has used two of his shapeshifts & Protection from Lightning on Gil-Gandel.

Deor’s spells:
For days at sea:
1: Magic Missile, Sleep, Shield, Dancing Lights
2: Web, Levitate, Invisibility
3: Fireball, Water Breathing
4: Mass Sleep

For days on land:
1: Sleep, Magic Missile, Comprehend Languages, Dancing Lights
2: Web, Invisibility, Stinking Cloud
3: Fireball, Fly
4: Wall of Fire

Ghân's Daily Spells: * Cast daily **precast – lasts until 84hp damage taken

7x1st: Animal Friendship, Detect Magic, Purify Water, Faerie Fire, Entangle, Speak to Animals, Predict Weather*
7x2nd: Barkskin*, Charm Person or Mammal, Cure Light Wounds, Warp Wood, Goodberry, Heat Metal, Slow Poison
4x3rd: Neutralize Poison, Summon Insects, Protect v Fire**, Water Breathing (Plant Growth is loaded whenever Protect v Fire is already running)
4x4th: Cure Serious Wounds, Dispel Magic, Quench Fire, Protect v Lightning ** (Produce Fire is loaded whenever Protect v Lightning is already running)
Spellstone: Neutralize Poison; Call Lightning; Summon Insects
Herbal Supplies: Goodberries: 200, Curing doses (3hp each): many, Blowpipe dart paralyzing venom: many

Sir Thoroncir will resume leading the attack and will, if possible on the chaotic battlefield, meet up with his fellow Sea-knights Aestirion, Orodreth and Pelendur to see that the heavy infantry is given the mounted support it needs. Elendil!

As Folca wings out high and to the south to observe the enemy's chaotic retreat south, Deor stands excitedly at the bow of the Elendil, with his mallorn staff held protectively in front of him in his left hand and a pinch of sulfur in his right, prepared to cast on a moment's notice but holding his fire for now.

I don't understand- there are four armies converging on the beach. Two of them are flying the flags of Gondor and Rohan- are the other two marching with Gondor and Rohan, or marching against them?

Carefully using Folca's eyes Deor is able to relay to the Captain that there are two armies in organized retreat heading for the port and not the beach in additional to the badly broken group on the beachhead scrambling all over. The other two armies appear to be a mix of Gondorian and Rohirrim troops with heavy infantry, light infantry and cavalry in each army.

Ghân receives a report back that his entangles might prove useful to slow those retreating over the dunes and cedars. He checks with Thoroncir and Gil-Gandel to see if he should act.

Gwaelur is sticking to his xbow for now, though he will take on lower level targets with his axe. He is feeling better, but no where close to 100%. He knows if he just charges into the fray in this state he will accomplish nothing but getting himself killed, and that won't help anyone.

Still he hates not being in the center of the action.

Where am I in relation to the rest of the action? I have lost track. I know I have taken cover somewhere, but I don't know who else is near me anymore.

The Sea-knight encourages Ghan to use his entangles immediately, wherever he thinks they can do the most good against the enemy.

Rorimac realising there are plenty of the enemy behind him, and probably in front of him, turns and heads for the port with haste. He hopes that someone else will get there as well, because he doesn't want to be the only invisible scout in the town.

He will be waiting just down from the gate. If noone arrives and they start looking like they will close the gates, he will head inside and hope to make it up to the battlements.

Mulligan heads off relieved that the mage is dead, but worried she won't make it to the port before the gates close.

Racing for the ford, she hopes she can make it across unnoticed. Hopefully the people crossing are more concerned about escaping than looking for invisible hobbits.

Of course, if there are any horses around that could be ridden across, that might work, as well as keeping Mulligan dry. And if their rider needs to be removed, then perhaps that can be arranged as well.

Take the archers over to put a harassing fire on the retreating armies, but keep a sharp Elven eye out for any opposing cavalry or light infantry that could get in amongst us. If there is any infantry available to come and support us then so much the better. Once we find a suitable place and the enemy are closing within range, recite some stirring verses to put heart into the archers and give them +1 to hit for ten rounds.

Ghân begins casting entangles with Taurgol out, his oaken rod that assists his entangle spells.

Gwaelur finds himself near the shore to the south of The Elendil; roughly where the “y” in Infantry is on the map of the landing. He might be able to move to the ford to harry the retreat.

Rorimac finds the going easy and is in position waiting. Mulligan sees no horse but is in good position to cross the ford ahead of most retreating. She will get wet being a smallish Hobbit but the Elven cloak tied tightly and Elven boots make life easier for her.

Gil-Gandel can follow the heavy infantry marching fast to the ford and fire as he goes. His arrows hit often though most of the human archers are missing. At least they are adding to the confusion.

Deor will need to vacate The Elendil to be of further use.

Sir Thoroncir pulls the cavalry together and charges down the retreating foe to the east where the sand is firmer. The chaos is great.

Theogrim consulting with Dugar sees the chance to complete the wreck of the retreat. He sends Dugar and Sandy and 8 others on foot to get close to the ford and readies his 10 horseman to charge into battle as the infantry engages.

Meanwhile the landing is nearly complete now and The Elendil is preparing to back off the shore for safety. The Captain plans to use his trebuchets against the port.

Mulligan crosses the ford muttering silent oaths about getting wet and heads for the meeting point near to the gate hoping to catch up with Rorimac.

Thoroncir will continue to press the attack, keeping his men together and smashing the enemy wherever he finds them. He'll use the lance when possible, and otherwise his longsword Cirist. He senses that victory may be just within reach.

Gwaelur grabs a number of the soldiers he is fighting with and starts to flank the enemy, heading in the direction of the ford, east/southeast . The idea is to encircle the enemy fighters preventing them (as much as possible) from being able to make a safe retreat.

Deor will advance from the Elendil towards the beach. He'll try to meet up with Ghan, so that Fang and Anca can provide some protection. Once there, he'll cast to support the friendly troops only if strictly necessary- better to save spells if possible.

Deor sees a great opportunity to fall in behind Gwaelur and the heavy infantry; he is not sure where Ghân is. The riders are riding down the fleeing enemy as the archers let loose at any pockets and strays not near their own troops. Mulligan has to dodge to the side when she gains the far bank of the ford as a group of Dwarves, Men and a Hobbit? are charging at the routed foe and being followed by nearly a dozen horsemen. Many of the foe race back into the ford. Mulligan has a choice to make, increase the confusion at the ford or make for her goal of the gate. She knows her duty and sees things are well in hand. Off to the gate.

Many more men are heading for the ford in an orderly fashion to assist those that landed first. Some light horse with bows are ridden over to where Ghân has begun to Entangle the foe fleeing east. He directs their efforts.

Bitur leads the way across the ford. The infantry is formed up around him.

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The foe retreating have been taken down almost completely. Ghân used two Entangle and the invasion is crossing the ford. Mulligan in very light traffic reaches the meeting point and signals to Rorimac who responds. The two Hobbits are on their own.

Having harried the retreating enemy satisfactorily, let's get the archers formed up with the advance and have them conserve ammunition for now. Keep an eye out for Thoroncir, Gwaelur and the rest in case we run into any hard resistance that might need the attention of an elite force.

While pursuing the retreat with the other infantry, Bitur will slowly ease his way over to Gwaelur and inquire as to how he's doing after the fireball.

Seeing that matters are well in hand, Thoroncir relinquishes field command for the moment to his lieutenant, Aestirion, ordering the grizzled older Sea-knight to press on with the attack as long as Aestirion deems it prudent. Then he spurs his borrowed horse and rides off to find his friends and comrades of Gil-Gandel's Fellowship.

Following Gwaelur and trying his best to stay well-hidden in this cluster of well-armored warriors, Deor will keep his head down and his eyes up, ready to cast if anything comes up that the party can't handle otherwise. Folca will keep a high watch out for any surprises.

Both Rorimac and Mulligan keep heading for the port hoping to meet up and get into the port before the gates shut.

The rout at the Ford turns into a complete disaster. The foe are all cut down or surrender. Ghân has tossed three Entangles stopped the retreat in that direction. The landing is complete. Now the forces of Gondor cross the ford and meet up with a few old friends. Deor sees his brother Theogrim leading the horse on the other side and Bitur recognizes a young comrade, Dugar of Erebor.

Now it is time for fast greetings and to get to the port.

In the meantime, the two Hobbits have made it into the gates just as they closed. They find each other by mistake. Mulligan sees a tall man trip over nothing. She made her way swiftly to the spot and called out quietly until Rori answered.

Map of the Port to follow later

Theogrim! By god man, it has been a long time. No time to talk now I suppose, but will will have to sit and swap war stories later. Your little brother has turned into quite the Wizard while you were away.

"It is good to see you once again as well, Gwaelur son of Gwaelin. It gladdens me that our paths may once again lead in the same direction for a while."

Seeing that Deor appears to be in one piece, Theogrim favors him with a brotherly nod and smile.

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

Spoiler (mouseover to read):

I reached a decision that it was not worth mapping out the details of the port. This is a quick rough up based on early reports and flyovers by the birds.

Ignoring his brother's aloof greeting, Deor unabashedly bearhugs the only part of Theogrim he can reach- his leg. "Well met! What news from the army? When did you leave? What have you been doing since I went north?"

Thoroncir looks for familiar faces among the mingled forces of Gondor and Rohan before spurring his horse towards the castle.

"Welcome to the festivities, Dugar. It pleases me to be allied with another from the Mountain. We'll have to catch up on recent goings on when we get the chance. I'd love to hear any news from Erebor that has happened since I left it many moons ago."

I'm missing the reunion :sad:

Mulligan and Rorimac head in to the port trying to avoid being trampled by the big people.

First job, time to find out what troops they have in the port and if there are any nasty surprises that might await our troops outside. Although it might be quicker, splitting up is probably not a good idea. Time to take in the sights of the keep, the dock and that tower on the far south.

Glinras, the Gleaming Horn, sounds a merry tantara encouraging any of Gil-Gandel's acquaintances to form up on him. The tall Grey-Elf, smartly dressed despite the long voyage and the rigours of battle, is not hard to pick out from the Gondorean archers nearby.

If the field is clear, Deor will move to regroup with Gil-Gandel, and he'll encourage his friends to do the same.

Sir Thoroncir hears the silvery call of Gil-Gandel's horn clearly over the tumult of the meeting of the armies. Smiling, he wheels his borrowed horse around and rides towards his Elf-captain and other friends.

Orodreth wants to know how to get through the gates or over the wall. Those walls are not coming down to the Elendil's trebuchet's very quickly. Do we have any tricks or just cutting off the returning armies?

Thoroncir stops to consult with his fellow Sea-knight, and tells him about Mulligan and Rorimac, presuming they have, by now, made undetected entry into the castle. "Once they've gathered sufficient information inside," he says, "I expect one or both will sneak back out and advise us as to the most effective means of attack. Have you spoken with Aestirion in the last few minutes? Unless he has given orders to the contrary since I saw him, have our troops cut off and either destroy or capture the retreating enemy. Then prepare to invest the castle. If a siege is necessary - although I doubt that it will be - then we should soon establish it."

Quote:

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Originally posted by Appleciders

If the field is clear, Deor will move to regroup with Gil-Gandel, and he'll encourage his friends to do the same.

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Deor is, of course, right. Let's regroup.

Quote:

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Originally posted by Appleciders

If the field is clear, Deor will move to regroup with Gil-Gandel, and he'll encourage his friends to do the same.

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Quote:

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Originally posted by NAF1138

Deor is, of course, right. Let's regroup.

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Agreed.

So what's inside the port then?

The Hobbits begin to notice much that is not as expected. The town is brick and wood. The outer walls do not appear well made. The men manning the walls are either far too old or far too young.

It appears the landing occurred while the Army was in the field and the Navy out to sea. They are currently in the shade of a large inn. Peering beyond the inn they see a tall central keep that looks far more imposing.

The armor of the town is large leather, studded leather and odd bits of metal armor. The weapons are heavy on pikes and short bows. A good smattering of short swords though. The archers led by Gil-Gandel should be able to offer protection to take down a wall or even the gates themselves. Especially is the various ballistae in the area to be sapped are rendered inoperative.

Can I assume that Folca sees something similar?

Folca sees the port is light on large vessels and the weapons and armor of the port's defenders are as above. Also notes the lack of defenders to the south or river side. Depending on the river and the wall for defense.

It appears the returning armies are likely to beat the Gondorian armies back to the port though. They know the lands better and the area is swampy. Perhaps this is the best use of the landing armies.

Deor will relay this information to everyone present. If we can get some of the Navy (under the command of Thoroncir, maybe, as the ranking Sea-Knight present) to make a bid at landing inside the walls via the river, we'll draw enough defenders off the walls to make a direct assault on the gates (under Theogrim, maybe) much more successful, especially if those Hobbits made it inside the gates.

Having given orders to Aestirion and Orodreth, Thoroncir will ride to meet Gil-Gandel and the others.

Hmm, time to go to work. With Mulligan leading, the two hobbits will try the following. They will not be taking major risks, and if it looks like they will get caught, will leave it and move on.

Rorimac will be carrying out most of the non-offensive actions, with Mulligan watching and providing cover seeing as she can stay invisible if she attacks.

Rule #1 applies: Don't get caught.

1. If the main gate has a portcullis, try sabotaging it trapping any retreating army outside.

2. Check out the Inner Keep and see what defences they have, commanders in charge and other surprises. Mulligan will be on the look out for officers who may be commanding the troops here. A paralysis dagger and throat slitting may come into play here.

3. Take out the ballistae. Taking out the windlass mechanism is preferred, cutting the rope at a pinch.

4. Find an area above where we can drop down to the ground and escape if we need to, although I think we will have more luck hiding in the keep.

6. A fire in the housing area by the wall, will cause plenty of havoc. Setting fire to the inn will cause even more problems as it is next to the main gate. I wonder if we can find an oil store anywhere?

7. Once they have plenty of info and caused a few problems, shimmy over the wall and head back to the army. Or, if they can gain access to a high area unseen, using any parchment to write down notes they can find, drop invisibility and wait for Folca or Ghan in Eagle form and pass the information across to them as a flying courier before going to cause more havoc. With Folca usually invisible and Deor always on the lookout, this might be work.

Finally, we are in a town before the rest of the army and invisible. I'm sure Mulligan can find plenty of treasure here before everyone else gets in. :LOL:

The old friends regroup. They have much to decide. They know of the returning armies being pursued and that they are headed for the gate further from the port itself in the outer section of the town. It should be simple to intercept but they would be caught between town and armies.


The Hobbits have much to do. The main gates are gates and not portcullises. The inn looks well made but the housing to the east does not. Some roof top fire could cause a lot of confusion.

If we are going to try to stay here for any length of time fire might not be our best friend. If we are going to go elsewhere soon then burn away.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but this is a town, full of innocent families, occupied by pirates, right? I'm not comfortable burning down houses of women and children.

Theogrim knows from riding south with the army that the people of the town are neither really, they are not really pirates, they do their Lord's bidding as privateers more. The people are largely just people. Not particularly evil on their own though they do keep slaves and worship the twisted beliefs of power that Melkor and Sauron have gifted them over the long dark ages.

Orodreth says, "Taking the port as a base of operations as the Dwarf Dugar suggests is not a bad idea at all if we can do it."

Gilraen, "We should avert suffering and death where possible. Taking this port to hold and to help the people would be best."

Sandy, "I'm a bit peckish myself, could we get on with this?"

Well, if there are innocents in the town, I'm against burning it. If we could land even a token force from the river side, it'd deplete their defenders on the wall. And otherwise, let's move on. Do we have any good ways to damage the walls? I'm confident in our army's ability to exploit a breach if we can create one. If the gates are wooden, a Fireball, or even a few burning arrows, should do a good job.

The gates are metal and only 12' wide. They block an archway that is 12' high.

Sir Thoroncir listens carefully to the intelligence gathered by Folca, and agrees that burning the city is out of the question (although a few small fires could draw off some defenders and then be relatively easily extinguished once we capture the city). A coordinated, simultaneous attack on one or more of the gates, as well as sailing into the harbor with our smaller galleys laden with troops, just might overwhelm their limited defenses.

While Gil-Gandel and the others discuss this, he will ride back towards the city to ensure that Aestirion and his men continue to press their attack on the enemy troops fleeing towards it. The fewer of our foes that reach the city, the better.

The two hobbits will start by scouting out the keep and finding out what commanders they have and then move on to dealing with the ballistae.

Setting fire to things is purely to cause confusion in the town and draw defenders away. Not looking to harm any innocents just take the town with minimal casualties on both sides.

I am also against burning the town. It seems that the defenses of the port are sound enough for us to hold it for a time. is this correct?

I say we hold the town per Gilraen's suggestion.

Seeing as the hobbits are invisble in the town and not with the rest of the group, they can't hear the comments :p

Besides, they have plenty to do before that point anyway.

Assemble as much force as we can and pick the likeliest-looking gate to assault, with our heavies to lead and myself looking for key targets (oil cauldrons, officers, artillery pieces). Give a blast on the Gleaming Horn to jolly on the attackers and recite something inspiring about the glories of Gondor and setting the benighted natives free from oppression. Any archers we have can discourage the defenders as best they can - find them cover if possible though. We'll try to carry one gate by storm rather than spread ourselves too thin.

If Aestirion has matters well in hand attacking and cutting off the retreating enemy forces, Thoroncir will join Gil-Gandel and the others in trying to force a gate of the city. Elendil!

The Elendil is off the beach and using flag signals to the shore.

W H A T | S I T U A T I O N | H O W | B E S T | S U P P O R T

What means do you plan to use to force the gates? They a steel set back in a stone archway. They are only 12' wide and 12' high.

It appears the gates are also protected by 4 large ballistae and men with bows and long pikes.

Don’t forget the approaching large armies retreating to the eastern gate.

I'd suggest we signal the Elendil to open fire on the nearest gate with ballistae and trebuchets, if the warship is within range. This can be counterbattery fire against the gate's ballistae, as well as for knocking down the gate and/or surrounding wall. If not now within range, can the ship be moved closer in order to do so? Her supporting galleys, including the Gilraen, should join in the bombardment if they can. If we have our own field "artillery" with us we should use it, too.

Is our landing force big enough, or now well-positioned enough, to keep the retreating enemy from actually reaching the castle? If so, our infantry should entrench, taking advantage of the terrain between the enemy and their city. Sir Thoroncir will see to the massing of cavalry for a possible charge.

The Elendil will have problems attacking the gates due to the large rocky hill with the large tower. To get close enough to hit the gates will put it at risk from the tower. Maybe with some support action the north tower can be reduced first. (see map) Only the Elendil can really hope to reduce the gate keep, the rest of the fleet can support though.

The landing has no artillery to speak of except for the ballistae donated by the repelling force.

The landing force should be large enough to set prevent entry through the 3 gates of the port though it would spread them thin. However if you can hold for even 30 minutes the pursuers will be on top of them. Orodreth suggest that the Knights with Theogrim lead a surprise charge as they approach to cause confusion on one side. (Though that could be risky is surprise is not had.)

Is the terrain uneven enough that the Sea-knights and our Rohirric allies could mass to one side, out of sight of the enemy, and then make a surprise attack on their flank? That might buy time for the infantry to entrench and for the Elendil to begin to reduce the gate keep. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Do Aestirion and Orodreth like this plan? Thoroncir wants their candid opinions, as always.

Deor has a brand-new Wall of Fire spell he'd love to try out if we're going to try holding a gate. With that going, we might not need to spread so thin to hold the three gates.

Is Ghan still here and does he have Stone Shape loaded? If he can reshape one side of the gateway he might be able to remove the hinge-points for one of the gates.

Wall of Fire is a lovely spell if we can arrange for Deor to sit quietly and keep it going. If we opt to delay the retreating force it might have a big impact on them!

Ghân is near and says, "I have stone shape available but no safe way to work on the gate. I might be able to do some plant growths near the base of the wall and give some men a chance to scale the wall quickly. In about two hours I should be able to cast call lightning as the weather becomes favorable for it."

There are some areas where up to a 100 cavalry could hide from the returning armies. Perhaps massing your best there would be a good idea indeed. The only fear would be some signal from the town to the army. But if the town is distracted that should not be an issue.

Gliraen, "Ghân has excellent fire resistance, perhaps the wall of fire could be the cover he needs to work on the gate if Deor could but the wall effectively on the gate."

I'm sure Deor grabbed the fire-spell-enhancing toy dragon and tinderbox- did he grab the brazier as he left the ship?

I think it is reasonable that Deor would grab his extra tools.

If there's cover for a body of cavalry then let's set up an ambush - also if it's possible to throw some archers in there then we'll do so, and I'll lead them. The more doubt we can cause over our numbers, the better.

For a distraction, how about calling in some shore bombardment? That should turn a lot of attention seaward.

Sounds good to me.

Thoroncir has the Elendil signaled, ALL WELL / PLS OPEN FIRE ON CITY NOW / I WILL AMBUSH RETREATING ENEMY.

Then he will go with Aestirion and his fellow Sea-knights to mass our mounted forces in the swale or valley, after giving orders for the foot soldiers to entrench on advantageous ground between the approaching foe and the castle.

Ghân, "I want to understand the plan please. Who will be with Deor and me near the northern or shore gate? Should I first plant growth up the walls to distract the defenders? The fleet will begin to bombard the Northern tower and the smaller ships will move in closer to support? About 100 of our best cavalry will prepare to ambush the retreat as the bulk of the infantry digs in to hold the eastern gate from them and defend their own rear from a sally. Where will the archers be, specifically Gil-Gandel? Will Thoroncir & Theogrim be in the ambush or supporting the taking of the port?"

Aestirion reports, “The Elendil, the 10 transports and the 5 captured galleys have landed a full 200 Sea Knights & Knights of Rohan. 480 infantry of Gondor and 160 freed galley slaves will also be landing and the party. There are nearly 850 men in this army, well men and two young women. Of these numbers, 180 Knights are still combat ready and 580 of the infantry. We have captured 5 ballistae in all. In addition Theogrim has his small force of 11 horse and 10 special foot including Dugar, Sandy Proudfoot and a Ranger of Ithilien that is an excellent marksman and uses a strongbow. His name is Wilfrid.”

Odoreth, “Do we know if the Gondorian army is General Haldon and his 200 Horse and 1800 foot soldiers? His personal flag is a large gold pendant with a pair of Eagles over a knight with Sword and Shield. ”

Deor can confirm via Folca that it is General Haldon leading the northern army of roughly 1000 men. The southern army has 800 men and the cavalry flies only a generic standard of Gondor and the house flag of Marshall Ailred of Rohan.

In general, what I specifically need to know is where will the party be working, we know the spellcasters will be at the gate.

I think Sir Thoroncir, having been given command responsibility for the Sea-knights, ought to go with the majority of them to prepare an ambush. He will take Orodreth and 80-some Sea-knights, and Theogrim and his 11 horsemen, to do so. He leaves Aestirion in command with the balance of the Sea-knights and all of the foot troops, to entrench with the ballistae in the path of the retreating enemy. He also orders Aestirion to assist Gil-Gandel, as needed, in attacking the castle with such forces as he can spare.

I don't know what our spell casters have in way of spells. We have a few choices, over, under around or throught the gate.

If we are going to attack the gate my suggestion is to concentrate our attacks to the outside of the doors. That is normally the weak spot on stone walls so i will guess that is the same way here with wood. If we can get some of that wood to buckle its short work to bring a section down and storm inside.

Theogrim and his 11 horsemen will accompany Thoroncir in the ambush. The footmen he will instruct to stay with Deor and Ghân and any other spellcasters, to help guard them.

Sandy looks at the rest of the group:


I'm getting hungry, can we get this started sooner rather than later?

So Thoroncir and Theogrim are going to form an ambush.

Deor and Ghan are going to at the gate, I think I will join them, hopefully my bow will pick off some of the archers on the wall. Maybe scale the wall as well.

I was looking forward to seeing Gil-Gandel in action, maybe another time.

Sir Bitur, Sir Gwaelur, Sir Dugar will you be venturing with the ambush or to the gate?

And any word from those inside the port?

I'll join the gate-assaulters, then - if it looks at all profitable to do so, I can climb very well, and we may have more need of precision archery there than in the ambush. Sir Thoroncir seems to have matters well in hand. Of course, some plants to scramble up would do me no harm at all :)

I will aid in the assault upon the gate.

About a mile from the port and 300’ from the main road is a low wooden hill. Within here is the place of concealment. Wilfrid the Ranger rode out to scout it. He reported it safe for use and recommends we wait to ride out until the first missiles fly from the Elendil.

All prepare for the next operation. Ghân and Deor prepare for magic and the riders mount up into two groups. Malacandra and Sandy prepare to climb the wall and the Dwarves and some of the top infantry are ready to protect Ghân and be the first through. The 5 captured ballistae could be brought up into position to support.

Mulligan has made it over to the central keep when she hears the boom of the Elendil’s trebuchet missiles striking the outer tower. The port begins to scramble. She races back to the gate. Rorimac decides now is the time and lights the roof closest to the inn on fire and heads for the wall to hopefully wreck some ballistae.

Ghân casts his plant growth using Taurgol and his magic Mallorn leaf, and the vines climb the wall and dig in strong to every crack and crevice and some nearby trees grow up and over the wall. The stretch is huge going 60’ wide and all along the wall from gate to gate. Some areas are far heavier than others with foliage but the port’s defenders do not know what to make of this occurrence.

Light infantry uses the confusion to start to climb the wall and Gil-Gandel goes up nimbly and fast to support them. Sandy takes a bit longer.

Deor casts up his wall of fire and Ghân races over to start his stone shaping. He swiftly carves out along the lower portion and the Dwarves lift him up very slowly and steadily so he can reach up to 9’ high. The infantrymen secure sturdy ropes that go through to a team of horses. They will have to be quick though if the Ring of Fire is used as it will eventually burn through the ropes.

Deor needs to decide if the Wall is a ring that will move with him and if he is using the Brazier to double the duration or increase the area of effect by 50%. He is casting at 10th level.


Thoroncir, Theogrim, Hraesig and Wilfrid lead the 96 other horsemen to the ambush point.

300 of the heavy infantry are digging in between the wall and the returning armies. They would like the 5 ballistae if you do not need them at the gate. This leave 180 infantry and the 160 freed slaves to go over the wall or through the gate. Correct the amounts if needed. It also leaves 80 horse free as a reserve.

Mulligan and Rorimac will endeavour to cause as much trouble inside the port as possible.

Sandy will be climbing up to the top to try and provide missile support.

Gil-Gandel gains the top of the wall from a large tree. He sees an underwhelming town. It is crowded and all too much built of wood. Nearer to him he sees large groups racing to cut vines and repel the invaders. He sees at his medium range a man in chain mail barking orders out.

Meanwhile scrambling off his roof top, Rorimac sees a figure in a strange headpiece and red robes walking fast towards the gates. He carries a wand in one hand and small bronze shield in the other.

Theogrim and Thoroncir are just waiting of course.

Ghân has nearly finished his stone shape and the Dwarves and Deor should make their final plans? Will Deor move forward with the wall of fire in a circle or drop it to allow more men to try and rush through the wide passage into the city? Remember those inside the circle now can run out of it without taking damage. The flames are only to the outside. Within the Walls are the 3 Dwarves, 2 casters and 25 of the best heavy infantry.

That man in chain mail needs to improve his impersonation of a porcupine. I'll start strumming Lindorn to provide the appropriate inspiring music. As we now have another route in we needn't worry about the vines too much - we'll just do what we can to harass the defenders.

Deor keeps pressing forward, his Wall of Fire in a ring around him, moving forward into the town.

Sir Thoroncir makes sure the cavalry is arrayed in good order and out of the line of sight of the approaching enemy. He asks Theogrim to command the left wing and to keep his Rohirric men together. Orodreth will command the left wing, and Thoroncir the center. The charge is to commence either when the bulk of the enemy forces have passed us (the better to fall on their rear, surprise and destroy them) or when we're spotted by the enemy, whichever comes first.

Correction: Theogrim will command the right wing; Orodreth will command the left wing. :smack

Sandy will be heading up as fast as possible to join Gil-Gandel on the battlements.

Rorimac will head for the ballistae to prevent them being fired on the army outside.

Mulligan will race back to see if there is anything she can do near the gate. If she sees the magic user, a smoke bomb centred on him when he stops moving will be used.

The three hobbits sit down and have a picnic while waiting for the action to continue. We may be a while. ;)

The arrows from Lindorn strike the leader type who survives but runs for cover. Anyone aiming a bow or directing the defenses finds the arrows of Gil-Gandel coming at them swiftly. He is joined shortly by a dozen more archers and Sandy.

Deor presses forward and without much direction the Dwarves, Ghân and heavy infantry move with him through tunnel. The Dwarves provide a shield wall to protect Deor. Ghân stays low. The heavy infantry drive spears through murder holes and move swiftly telling Deor to move fast. More infantry follow the Ring of Fire. Once in town, what is next? They spy the inn and an a large number of men converging on the area. Arrows begin to rain down on those in the Ring.

Rorimac gets to a ballista still invisible and jams a large bolt into the mechanism. He then sees a chance to upend one defender over the wall about to spear one of the light infantry climbing the vines. He succeeds and is now visible and has several foes immediately around him.

Mulligan arrives in time see a Red Robes figure with a wand making magical type gestures. The smoke bomb engulfs said caster type and Mulligan thinks she has a great chance for a backstab if desired.

Thoroncir and Theogrim wait.

Sandy is quite happy to follow Gil-Gandel's lead in shooting at anyone of note.

Rorimac cries out "For the Shire" and hopes he is both noticed by some friendly troops already over the wall and that he gets some backup shortly from the troops still climbingl. He will stand his ground and try to amke sure he cannot be attacked by too many people at once.

Mulligan ponders that "they surely couldn't have two people with that electrical shield spell, could they" and goes silently for the backstab with paralysis dagger.

Rorimac buys time for the climbers and makes short work of a too old soldier and then deftly dances out of the way of another with a long sword. His find chain mail stops another thrust and he hits twice with his short swords injuring this foe.

Mulligan sees the Red Robed figure emerge from the smoke and takes her strike and hits true for 15 points but the spellcaster is not paralyzed. He turns and his bronze shield is glow red and he sweeps it about it.

Thoroncir confers with Theogrim and Orodreth, and then rides among his men, encouraging them and making sure all is ready. He wonders how things are going back in the city.

If we can find a vantage point to cover the advancing troops in the Ring of Fire, let's look for the archers who are bothering them, and respond in kind. If there are signs of resistance developing in the city, use horn-calls to direct the ground troops towards them - Glinras will be easily heard from up here.

Bitur will suggest that Deor and the fire group close into melee with the enemy fairly quickly. The enemy archers will have a harder time attacking us if they have to shoot at their allies as well.

Quote:

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Originally posted by Hoopy Frood

Bitur will suggest that Deor and the fire group close into melee with the enemy fairly quickly. The enemy archers will have a harder time attacking us if they have to shoot at their allies as well.

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Let's do it- I'm ill-equipped to be taking arrows right now.

Rorimac will leads the soldiers who have climbed up behind him to try and form a second breach of the walls.

Mulligan will dive for the safest place where the Magic User can't see her, right behind him. He can probably see invisible, so hopefully this will let her get another shot in. Also hoping he thinks he has been struck in the back by a human and not a hobbit, so he will not be looking at the right height.

Mulligan outmaneuvers the magic user gets even lower and behind. He pivots fast but Mulligan is faster yet. He aims his wand and says what Mulligan hears as “Agni Fastu!” and a fan of flames shoot out from the tip of the wand. Mulligan stabs again and hits again doing 12 more points and this time the magic user crumples to the ground bleeding and unable to move.

Deor moves as fast as he can while concentrating on the Ring of Fire. The hot flames of his magic disperse the growing number of defenders coming fast to the open area before the inn. The Dwarves and most of the heavy infantry charge out to take advantage of the confusion and turned backs of the town’s defenders. Five of the heavy infantry with crossbows remain with Deor. Does Deor wish to head a specific direction of just wherever men are forming for defense? Arrows have just missed him so far and several struck home on the men around him.

The three Dwarves’ armor seems immune to the poor skill and weapons of those nearby. They do not seem well trained and the axes and shields strike nearly every time and kill with every hit. The three wreak great havoc among the defenders and cause a small rout that the men of Gondor are swift to capitalize on. Three of the men force the main doors of the inn and a squad of 10 head inside.

The flames from the nearby rooftop are now generating much smoke and causing additional confusion in the town.

Gil-Gandel and Sandy work together to strike any they see giving direction to the defense. Gil-Gandel’s bow is singing in earnest now. He sees far off that a well built ship is launching. He also sees a knot of mounted warriors, 28 in number are coming down out of the hilltop central keep leading 50 well armed and armoured men. They appear equipped with chain mail and sturdy spears and cutlasses. The mounted warriors are a mixed bag, 8 appear to be on large chargers with chain barding and the rest on smaller mounts with leather barding. All of the men have long spears and chain mail on except one in glistening plate on the largest charger. His lance is black.

Rorimac holds off the attacks of the more professional guards on the walls and now has the support of a growing number of light infantry and freed slaves. He may wish to switch to bow?

Ghân casts another plant growth to grow the vines and trees even more. These vines have done their job, the men of the north have too many places to climb and there are too few defenders, the wall is lost.

At the ambush area Wilfrid from a treetop calls down, “I see them at last, be ready, they will arrive in 8 minutes”.

Smokin' :cool:

Mulligan will pick up the wand and shield. For keepsakes. Maybe his purse as well. It may come in useful for Deor. Honest.

Is the Magic User dead or just paralysed?


Rorimac, will get the slaves and troops moving to capture the other ballistae. He will be switching to a bow for extra effect.

The Magic User is alive. Mulligan retrieves the wand but as Mulligan reaches for the shield, she feels heat pouring off of it and sees her hand visible. A look of fright and puzzlement appears in the eyes of the magic user. What does Mulligan do?

Sir Thoroncir thanks Wilfrid for the update, wishes Theogrim and Orodreth good hunting, and sends them to their respective positions, ready for action. He passes the word for all of the horsemen to wait until he signals the charge.

I assume there is a bugler or trumpeter among the Sea-knights. If so, Thoroncir will keep him close at hand. Otherwise, Thoroncir will shout the command to attack when the time is right.

Yeah, I was expecting the shield to do that somehow. Turning visible in the middle of this fight is not really what I want, especially with the heat from that shield.

If the heat is coming off the front and it can be lifted from the back then fine, otherwise leave it for Deor.

At least he is paralysed for the moment, so Mulligan will drag him off to one side and tie him up and gag him out of sight for later conversation with the the leaders.

Whispering to him, "Hi there, don't mind me."

Don't forget the purse.

Mulligan finds the shield cannot be approached at all, however Mulligan can drag, gag and truss the magic user and relieve him of his belt pouch and a smaller pouch in his robe. This smaller pouch feels like it just might contain some gems.

The mage actually looks vaguely relieved he is being tied. Probably feared a quick stroke to finish him off.

Keep in mind, your knife is now low on drug.

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Thoroncir knows that Orodreth carries a horn and calls for who else carries them. Another Sea Knight by the name of Henemir carries a horn of different tone and a one of the Rohirrim Knights carries a great horn of some potency. His name is Cenwig and his horn is called Githa. He will happily stand ready to protect you and send your signals.

If Cenwig doesn't mind being away from Theogrim and his other Rohirric countrymen on the right wing, he is most welcome to remain with Thoroncir in the center of the line. Henemir should then go with Theogrim, and Orodreth can pick up the call when he hears it on the left wing.

As the Sea-knight captain waits in the calm before the storm of battle, he has a few moments to think of Gilraen's bright eyes and sweet kiss. He hopes she is safe and well, and prays that he might live to see her again.

This Fire Wall is making me a little too conspicuous, and anyway it's done its job by protecting the Dwarves as they entered the town. Drop it, and hide away from the arrows if possible, or else use an Invisibility to get out of sight. Stick by Glee and his canine companions if possible.

If Folca sees the warriors approaching Gil-Gandel, Deor may try to, from a hidden vantage point, cast a Web to dismount those warriors from their chargers forcibly.

Sandy continues to lead the men across the top of the wall to capture ballistae. If they can be activated and ready for our use, so much the better.

Mulligan will head for Deor to hand over the wand and pouches to see if the will come in useful, remembering what words the Caster used to activate it.

I wonder if Mulligan could use it. :smash:

Any other instructions?

No, unless I've left some ambiguity which will be ruthlessly exploited to my dismay. Otherwise, I'm good. :wink

Now that the ring of fire is dropped, assuming the Men of Gondor aren't having any difficulties in dealing with Inn, and the wall assault is pretty much under control, Bitur will command a reasonably sized group of men to follow him deeper into the town to flush out any forces that might be hanging back for now.

Don't forget these guys from post 92:

Gil-Gandel... sees far off that a well built ship is launching. He also sees a knot of mounted warriors, 28 in number are coming down out of the hilltop central keep leading 50 well armed and armoured men. They appear equipped with chain mail and sturdy spears and cutlasses. The mounted warriors are a mixed bag, 8 appear to be on large chargers with chain barding and the rest on smaller mounts with leather barding. All of the men have long spears and chain mail on except one in glistening plate on the largest charger. His lance is black.

Unless I'm mistaken, my character is not aware of them at this point.

Gwaelur is going to go with Bitur's group. He is still not 100% so he will be mostly using his xbow.


I still need to get back into the swing of things. But I should be able to participate like normal again after the Thanksgiving holiday.

Quote:

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Originally posted by Hoopy Frood

Unless I'm mistaken, my character is not aware of them at this point.

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That depends on how much detail I'm able to pass via horn-calls - we had the trip down to become conversant with any code system Gondor uses, and I have an excellent instrument which I've been putting to use per my earlier post.

I think we're ready to take on the rest of the town now.

Bitur and Dugar form the center of a heavy infantry wall that heads into town. Gwaelur is just behind them with his magic crossbow loaded and ready.

Another group has broken into the inn and are taking possession of it.

Deor spots via Folca and the horn calls the mounted counter attack coming down the hill and threatening to break through the Dwarves and infantry. He waits until they are close to the Gondorian line and tosses a web across the street from building to building at a height of about 5½ feet. It causes great distress and damage to men and horses and breaks the charge. The Dwarves especially can go right under it and wreak mayhem. The fighting is swift and deadly for the town’s defenders. Gwaelur sends 4 bolts into one of the leaders seriously injuring him before two infantrymen bring him down. Many of the best defenders are trapped in the webs are quickly dispatched.

Gil-Gandel sees the bow work nearby is nearly done. No defenders are sticking their heads out in view of his section of the wall. The bulk of the light infantry and freemen are now on top of the wall and Gil-Gandel may wish to find higher ground or descend into the town itself. He cannot cover the heavy infantry any longer. Rorimac has the same concerns of course.

Sandy has completed the capture of the ballistae to the east of the north gate.

Mulligan finds Deor and hands over the wand and pouches and command word.

The remaining 80 Knights of Gondor led by Aestirion now ride into the town to assist and are directed to the port fast. This brings a total of 420 men in the town or on the walls and still leaves the 300 heavy infantry digging in between the wall and the returning armies with 5 ballistae.

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The vanguard of the returning troops passes the wooded position and the wait is now short. The scouts reach the heavy infantry position and the waiting is over, Sir Thoroncir signals Cenwig to blow for the charge. Orodreth thunders out to the left, Theogrim leaps forward and Thoroncir comes from the right. The attack has the full element of surprise and the nearly 100 horse cut the retreating army in two. The ballistae sing out and the heavy infantry surges forth to add to the chaos.

Marshall Ailred of Rohan sends his cavalry racing forward to complete the destruction. General Haldon has his infantry double-timing it now. The orderly retreat is now a rout.

Thoroncir finds the retreating army wearied and many are injured. He senses they may be ready to surrender.

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The Elendil is taking a toll on the large North Tower and covering the smaller ships as they slips into the harbor to attack the outer docks.

Sir Thoroncir is very pleased by how the battle is going. He raises his lance and shouts to his bedraggled foes, "Halt, men of Harad! Throw down your weapons at once, and you will be spared. Yield in the name of the King!" He orders Cenwig to sound the signal to halt the charge and to accept surrender, if offered (assuming there is such a horn call or calls), and passes the word through couriers to Theogrim and Orodreth, as well.

If the enemy reforms their lines or otherwise looks to be exploiting the pause in the charge, Thoroncir will order its immediate resumption.

"Geez! Did you touch that with your bare hands? Well, I'm glad it wasn't rigged." Deor will carefully transfer the wand and pouches to his cloak. He'll then try to make his was quickly to safety, since he's running low on spells for the day (only 1 3rd and 2 2nd levels left). Folca will stay high and ready to spot anything coming at us, especially from above.

Mulligan to Deor.

Well he was trying use it on me at the time, so I figured I should be safe to pick it up. Produces a nice jet of flame. There is also a glowing red hot shield back there you may be intererested in as well, and the mage is paralysed and tied up over there.

I'm going to head for the main tower and see if I can get in, hopefully before they barricade it shut. Let the others know, thanks.

Mullligan fades back out of sight and heads off for the main tower.

Sandy will follow Gil-Gandel in whicever direction he wants to go to pin down more of the defenders.

Rorimac will make sure the ballistae are in good working order to be used either inside or outside the wall and also make sure his section of the wall is secure.

Once Theogrim receives word from Thoroncir, he will call out to the enemy to lay down their weapons and be spared.

After several minutes of fierce fighting from the side ambush of fresh mounted and well armed and armored opponents and the charges from the rear and in front where they thought safety lied, a large number of those in the retreat surrender, toss down their weapons or even drop to the ground in defeat. There still remains many that do not and a knot of horseman are riding away from the battle to the south. There are at least 50 of them riding off. Those still resisting can be numbered in the low hundreds. Most of them seem to better armed.

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Mulligan back to invisible sights a man appear behind one of the rearmost infantrymen and stab him in the back and then flee and fade away. Mulligan is about 100 yards from the spot where the backstabbing occurred.

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Awaiting word from Dwarves and Elf.

Excellent. Theogrim, want to take 60+ men and chase south after the escaping knot of horsemen? Thoroncir can, in conjunction with Marshal Ailred's and General Haldon's forces, press the attack against those remaining but still resisting.

Gladly! Finally, a chance to let the horses stretch their legs! I'll quickly rally a company of horsemen, and we'll pursue the fleeing enemy.

Are any defending inside the town surrendering as well? If so, Bitur will command part of the infantry to relieve those of their weapons, while he takes the rest of the infantry to continue attacking those who don't.

Sadly none are surrendering inside yet. They do not yet appear to realize the North Wall is lost and returning army cut off and routed.

Best to strongly confront those coming down from the keep, methinks.

Well that's one way to pique Mulligan's curiousity. Looks like she is not the only one running around invisibly. Time to go and see who got stabbed, although I am expecting it to be a trap and someone to try and throw something to make her visible at just the wrong time.

Seeing as outside looks like it is under control, Rorimac will try and get the troops to turn the ballistae around to cover those coming down from the keep.

Is there higher ground nearby? I'll take any chance I can get to spot fresh developments, having much the keenest sight of any of us. Otherwise, I'd like to find somewhere I can get close to the enemy, call for a lull in our attack, and try a spot of bardic charm, with the suggestion option: that having fought bravely and dutifully for their Lords, they now accept the mercy that King Elessar extends to those whose only fault was to do as they were told. With a spot of Rivendell harp accompaniment, I should be able to get about a quarter of any audience I can find to consider such a suggestion carefully.

Deor will try to find a good place to get out of the way, and keep an eye on events through Folca. He knows a group of dwarves began clearing out at inn- maybe that would be a good place to hide out.

The Gate Tower would offer a high spot covering the lower north-east section of the town. The Inn's Roof would cover a bit more. The Wall Tower just past the rows of the tenements would provide more coverage of the center of town though.

Deor might find just following behind the infantry the safest place.

Ghân has headed over to help the battle outside as his talents lend themselves more outside of the town.

Mulligan sees the fallen ally is one one of the lighter armored infantryman and he is dead from a back stab. What next?

Rorimac suggests and several men quickly turn the ballistae around. Others call for support to take the towers of the gate. They could use a good archer.

With most of the horse riding off in pursuit of those fleeing and the Gondorian Army still not on top of them, a grizzled veteran rallies his men and is trying to form up a defensive position. They are not there yet.

Thoroncir ruefully shakes his head; some people just don't know when to quit. So be it! He orders Cenwig to sound the signal to resume the charge, sets his lance, and leads his 40-some remaining knights and the heavy infantry as they close in. Elendil!

Hold on, was that one of our troops stabbed in the back or one of the town militia we are trying to subdue?

It was a man from Gondor that was stabbed in the back.



Theogrim realizes his horses are much fresher and appear swifter. He knows he has the advantage of speed.

You have 60 to their 50 or so. How do you wish to order your men?

Split into three groups of twenty! One group overtake them on the right side, one group overtake them on the left, and one group keep them bottled up from the rear. When they see they are in danger of being surrounded, perhaps that will make them reconsider their course of action. And if they don't, then at least we are in a good position to strike at them.

The pursuit begins in earnest.

A dozen horsemen on the swiftest horse break free.

Theogrim has confidence his horse can keep up and will have more endurance and the horses of the Sea Knights are all swift if nowhere near as enduring.

This leaves 37 slower horses in poor order as the bulk for the entrapment.

If he could spare the time to look, Sir Thoroncir would approve of Theogrim's disposition of forces.

To the Wall Tower, having weighed up the options. Take some archers with me in case we spot something worth shooting.

Deor will stick close to the infantry as they clear the town, carefully watching his own back and flanks to avoid any nasty surprises.

Oh dear.

If they have someone who can drop in and out of invisibility like that, then it could be a problem.

I'll inform Deor and Ghan to see if the have any anti-invisibility spells that may help and then head for the slightly unprotected flanks of the troops and wait.

Well, I have Invisibility that could be cast as a counterspell, maybe. Not sure what that would do. It might force him to visibility for a time, or even invert what his ring does temporarily. But I'd have to know where he is to cast it, and he'd probably have to be invisible at the time, which might be tricky.

I will break away with my twenty to pursue the faster fleeing foes, and call to the remaining forty to form more of a V and continue working to flank and encircle the slower ones.

Gil-Gandel climbs the wall of the tower with the other archers protecting him. He makes short work of it as the tower, especially on this side is not well constructed. He gets to the top, pulls over and sees the tower is manned by 4 men ready to skewer him.

Mulligan is watching the flanks and he sees a cloaked figure appear and stab at another man of Gondor. This time the stroke does not kill. Mulligan is about 40’ away.

As Thoroncir is trying to break the small rally around the vet, another group coming to reinforce them are Entangled by Ghân. He gives a small salute to the Captain and scurries off fast. Thoroncir gets a bead on the vet and completes his charge lance firm bowling him over. He leaves the lance and draws out Cirist. Having the advantage of height, strength and magic sword, Thoroncir cuts his foe but the Vet hits his horse for 7 points. Thoroncir hits again and the vet goes down. He glances around and sees a rider than could use help and strikes down another foe.

Theogrim leads the pursuit of the flying foes. As they spread out he pursues one himself and is slowly overtaking him. His other wings of 40 close in on the 37 and pitched battles ensue. About 6 of Theogrim 20 break of pursuit to aid in the larger battle. As the crash in it turns the tide and the numbers begin to favor Rohan and Gondor dramatically. They soon surrender and give over 28 fairly healthy horse.

Theogrim finally gets to a clear field and sets his horse to a full gallop and overtakes his foe. He does 28 and knocks his foe from his beast. He charges over the foe letting the huge War Horse of Rohan complete the job. He turns to see where he can help. He spots a few other pursuits and off course there is the main battle still.


The three Dwarves are in heavy fighting in the middle. Armor vs. horse. So far armor is winning.

What does Rorimac do next?

Theogrim will trust his men to finish the main melee and devote himself to attempting to ride down the fastest remaining fleeing foes.

Rorimac will get the troops to use the ballistae to aim and give warning to the foes that Thoroncir and Theogrim are fighting. If they know the city has fallen then it is likely they will stop.

40' is not that far in elven boots. Mulligan runs for the figure aiming to jump him with a dagger if he strikes again. If she can grab his cloak and stop him vanishing him, so much the better. Otherwise, if he vanishes again, try and track him by footsteps as he moves away. Hopefully, she will be close next time.

Sandy will be providing cover to Gil Gandel as best he can.

If he can do so safely, Thoroncir will dismount and permit the injured horse to run away. Then if another horse is close by, he'll grab it and mount up, continuing the attack. Otherwise he'll remain mounted and will dismount only when all of the enemy are dead or have surrendered.

He's not having good luck with horses today: first the late lamented Seafoam, and now this....

Anything else or is it time for the next update?

Deor's still sticking close behind the advancing infantry, ready to cast if strictly necessary, but hoping he won't have to.

Fighting the exhausted army in the field is going very well the knots of resistance are quickly broken down. Thoroncir finds a chance to quickly change horses again.

Theogrim rides down another fleeing foe that surrenders his weapons and rides back to the main mass. Within 30 minutes the battle outside is over.

Inside the town, Mulligan grabs the man by the cloak just as he turns invisible and she strikes a blow the fells the man.

The riders have swept around behind the town’s riders and act as the hammer against the Dwarves anvil. The street fighting is tough, but after about 15 minutes, the tower falls to The Elendil’s trebuchets and the sailors land and seize the docks. From here on the fighting is fierce but one-sided.

Remounted, his longsword Cirist flashing in the sun, Thoroncir makes sure that his men now press their advantage. He seeks out Aestirion and Orodreth to see how things are going for them. His orders remain: "Slay all who resist; disarm and take into custody all who surrender."

The invisible taking out the invisible. If he is still invisible, remove any rings or pendants by touch until he reappears. Then his cloak as well.

Once visible, tie him up neatly.

Mulligan on contact with her foe, can now make out his shadowy form, he is trying to twist away and is pulling out a dangerous looking ornate dagger as he twists.

Deor hears the odd struggle but does not see it but does see blood spurt from an invisible source.

Below is my understanding of how counterspelling works in this game- correct me if I'm wrong, and act on it if I'm right
Deor, on seeing blood spurt from the air, immediately casts Invisibility as a counterspell, hoping to make whatever's going on here visible so he can help deal with it.

A man appears, he is unarmored and bleeding from the side. He wears a dark gray jerkin and pants. Soft boot also gray. On one hand is a fine silver ring with a clear jewel about 2 carots in size. In the other is a deadly looking dagger.

Deor will shout for help, then circle around behind the man Mulligan's tangling with, maintaining at least fifteen feet of separation from the man. He won't engage if he can help it, but he might be able to distract the man enough to allow Mulligan a backstab before the rest of the infantry can pile on.

Four men ready to skewer me? Let's try out this Stunning Discord spell I worked out under Bombadil's tutelage, then. Follow up by going to sword and having at them - for a mere minstrel I'm not unhandy in a fight, especially if there's scope for manoeuvre in a confined space to keep them from getting at me all at once.

Deor just became my favourite magic user. :D

Looks like he is wearing things to help him move softly and not necessarily protect when visible. However, I would guess he is likely to turn himself invisible again as he already has done.

Move in and attack with a dagger to keep him occupied. I would prefer to switch to a sling, but I don't think I have the time.

If he moves towards Deor or even looks like throwing a dagger at him, either backstab or jump our not so invisible enemy.

If Bitur hears the cry for help (I'm not sure at this point where Deor is relative to rest of us) he'll instruct the infantry to continue to hold the line so that our allied riders can continue the cross attack on our enemy, and then he'll break off to where Deor is, carving a path if necessary.

Sir Thoroncir continues to attack, hewing down all who stand against him. He hopes that the fighting in the city is going well, and that his beloved, the fair Gilraen, is safe as she goes about her healing labors.

Gil-Gandel’s spell of Stunning Discord stuns 3 of the men charging him and the fourth strikes hard with a quick rapier strike doing 7 points. Gil-Gandel finds his opponent swifter than him and his lack of armor allows for another fast strike for 6 points. Gil-Gandel hits with his long but misses with his short and takes another strike and is now down 20 points in all. In the maneuvering though, his foe exposes himself to the archers below and 3 arrows strike him. As the foe dodges Gil-Gandel strikes twice and his foe looks bad. He is also very lightly armored.

Bitur pulls out of the line and the aids his friends. Mulligan has stabbed him once more and Deor is keeping him at bay. When Bitur arrives, the man tosses down his dagger and seems to be begging for his life.

The Dwarves and Infantry have held their line and much of the cavalry has come up from behind and completed the breaking of the city defender’s ranks.

Out on the field the General has arrived, Thoroncir sees a chance to send more help back to the city, as the battle outside is well in hand. Does he lead the men back or send Theogrim?

(let me know if I missed something, sorry for the delay)

As commander of the landing forces, Thoroncir thinks he probably ought to report to General Haldon in person. He looks about him with satisfaction, wipes his sword clean of blood, and then calls out to his Rohirric friend, "Hail, Theogrim, and well met! Our trap worked, and our task here is done, or nearly so. Now, if you will, lead the men to the city, please, there to assist Gil-Gandel and the others in the attack; these just-arriving troops can mop up on the battlefield as needed. My thanks, knight of Rohan. Truly, Gondor owes you a debt of gratitude this day. Aestirion, Orodreth, gallant Sea-knights! Go with him, and make haste."

He salutes them with his sword, sheathes it, and rides off to find Haldon.

Hmm, good job the archers were able to give me some back-up or I'd be getting my elvish ass kicked here. Time to disengage, and if possible lead my opponent through the covering fire so he can get shot some more, but at any rate make sure I'm out of hand to hand range before those stunned guys can join in the fun. I need to be thinking more in terms of swashbuckling moves around the scenery than standing toe to toe and slugging it out.

Deor will continue to let those better suited to wrestling and tying handle this disappearing fool, offering helpful advice on how he manages to turn invisible if anything seems obvious. Jewelery, maybe, or written spell markings on his body.

Mulligan will Bitur truss him up while she removes any valuables he may have, especially those which could make him invisible. However, she will wait until he is tied up before turning visible again.

Rorimac will start turning the Ballistae around to see if he can lend any heavier support to Gil-Gandel :)

Sandy will be keeping Gil-Gandel covered with more appropriate weaponry.

Bitur addresses the man:

"Your forces are decimated. Your town is lost. I accept your surrender and will spare your life, but your ultimate fate is not up to me. However, seeing as how you've given my companions a bit of trouble, I will have to tie you up to prevent any further issue. If I detect even the slightest act of resistance or trickery on your part, I will ensure that that act will be your last.

"Also I don't know who you are, or if you have any influence with or over your fellow townfolk, but if you care at all for their lives, you'd serve them best by convincing them to surrender as well."

Assuming that with Mulligan's help once all potential valuables/magic items/weapons have been removed from the man, Bitur will pull out his rope and tie the man's hands behind his back.

Rorimac sees it is useless to aim the ballista up to help Gil-Gandel and sees the fighting in the town is heavy. He also sees dozens of friendly horseman riding down to help subdue the fight. He might want to help below now.

Sandy quietly makes it over the wall and gets behind the rapier user and Gil-Gandel is able to push him over and put him on the ground. Sandy grabs his sword arm.


Down below, on the ground the once invisible foe surrenders completely and dejectedly to Bitur and the invisible menace known as Mulligan . “Please spare me, perhaps I can help you gain the surrender, I know the lord personally.” His accent his harsh but comprehensible.

Deor and Mulligan see the likeliest item for the invisibility is probably the silver bracers etched with arcane runes the man is wearing. They quickly and swiftly remove many items of value and interest from him.


Out on the field Thoroncir greets General Haldon. To Thoroncir’s surprise he sees the General’s standard-bearer is man from his own town, Garan of Linhir, a second cousin if Thoroncir remembers correctly. Haldon gives greetings, “Captain Thoroncir I presume? Well met, well met indeed. How goes the fighting in the town?” With that a large boom is heard and both see the far off sea tower crumble at the peak. The Elendil has won the day and opened the port.


Theogrim rides in hard towards the city; he passes Ghân-Buri-Ghân who is just now heading into the town himself. He leads 65 men all horsed.


This fight is nearly over.

Sir Thoroncir bows to General Haldon from the saddle. "My lord, welcome. It was a hard fight here outside the walls, and I have not yet had the chance to enter the town myself. You see what the might of the Elendil has wrought. Knowing the skills of my Elf-captain Gil-Gandel, I suspect that matters are now well in hand, but have nevertheless just sent my Rohirric comrade Theogrim and the rest of my men, including the Sea-knights, to his aid. By your leave, I too will now ride there, if you and your men will secure the battlefield here."

Smiling, he then says to Garan, "Welcome to you, as well, Garan of Linhir; we are cousins, if I am not mistaken. I hope all is well with you and our kinsmen of the coast. Your service honors Gondor; it does my heart good to see that proud banner snap in the breeze of this alien shore."

Deor will add the bracers to his stash of probable magic items recovered, to be Identified when there's a good chance. He'll continue to watch from the skies through Folca.

To the rapier-wielder: "You are skilled, sir, and on another day matters might have fallen out differently, but today is Gondor's. It would be well for you to yield."

After tying his prisoner's hands behind his back, Bitur will grab the man's arm with enough force to indicate who is in control here, but without any attempt to cause any additional discomfort to the man beyond the discomfort from having one's hands tied up behind his back. Bitur will also keep a periodic watch on those hands, to make sure his prisoner isn't trying to slip out.

"Lead on to your lord. Understand that if you try anything, your life will be forfeit to me, unless, of course, my invisible friend here beats me to the punch."

Mulligan suggests to Deor that he also recover the paralysed wizard who has been stashed away and the red shield he was using. Then she willl fade back into invisibility and go scouting for the leader of the town.

Rorimac will gather up the men he has been fighting with and lead them down to the town to assist.

Sandy will give Gil-Gandel a hand with the 4 archers.

Oooh, good point. Deor will grab a couple soldiers to back him up and go check out that paralyzed wizard.

Theogrim leads his horsemen around behind the main fighting and brings swift end to the battle.

The Elendil covers the fleet landing as the crews take the docks and a few remaining boats. It takes a few hours but the town is largely subdued and the returning army is broken and mainly captured.

Rorimac and his men aid the sailors at the docks.


General Haldon gets a fast report from Thoroncir and sends him with another 100 horses and 200 infantry to assist in the town. The eastern gate is secured and open.

Deor and Mulligan secure the more interesting items and the mage and invisible attacker.

The skilled foe on the tower surrenders and drops his weapons. “I would have taken you one on one, but today you win. Are you an Elf?”

Bitur and Gwaelur are quite pleased with the way the door to door fighting goes after the main battle is swiftly ended. Neither takes significant injuries. Dugar did take a blow from behind for 9 points

Sandy helps a few men over the wall and secures the stunned archers.

A force of 20 men secures the Inn and uses it as the field hospital. Gilraen directed another 20 men to direct the town folk in putting out the roof fires nearby.

By nightfall all the party is reunited in the Inn. Gilraen and Ghân are still working hard along with those that can help, especially the Rangers trained in herbology and healing.

General Haldon is set up in the main Keep in the center of town. The Elendil is preparing to pursue the ships that fled early in the day in the morning with an escort of the fastest ships.

Does General Haldon want us to go along with him in chasing the other ships, or to wait here and secure this area?

Mulligan will let Gil-Gandel handle the interrogation of the wizard and assassin, and will spend her time looking around the town, especially if there is anything of interest or that may require a treasure finder's skill in the tower.

Rorimac will go where he is required, and assist where he can be if use. He will, of course, make sure that the people he was fighting with are well catared for.

General Haldon would like to keep the party here for some special missions after the armies have had a chance to regroup and recover. He will leave the ship pursuits to Lord Langdon of Lebennin captain of The Elendil. He will take about 350 men with him, but none of the Sea Knights.

Rorimac finds himself spending a lot of time as a healer what with many injuries among many armies. He learns much while working with Gilraen, Ghân, several more experienced Rangers and the healers of the Port. The largest problem in the occupation of the port is the lack of Westron speaker in the port. Overall most the people are just people of course though the culture is alien.

What do others do over the next week and do any aid Mulligan in her search?

Thoroncir is very pleased by the victory. He will, with Aestirion's and Orodreth's help, make a tally of the Sea-knights and his other troops who survived, and send out search parties over the battlefield to recover the bodies of any of the fallen. He returns his borrowed horse to its rightful owner, if that knight is still alive, and will otherwise keep it. He recovers the remains of his late lamented warhorse, Seafoam, from the beach, and buries it with honor. He writes a report for the First Sea-knight to be taken back by the next ship returning to Gondor, and also a letter to his parents in Linhir, assuring them that he is well. He will then help Gilraen, if she needs any assistance, but will otherwise accompany and protect Mulligan in her search.

He thanks Theogrim for his invaluable service, of course, and also asks Gen. Haldon if the King is thought to be anywhere close by.

"An Elf of the Wood of Green Leaves I am indeed, and as it is not the way of my kind to lie, I will admit that I am just as happy not to answer the question as to which of us would win in a fair fight. Still, battles are not duels, and I for one fight only when I must, and not for sport or honour.

"The King of Gondor has no ill-will to those who serve their own lords in good faith, so long as they do only as they must and not out of cruelty. You will be used with all due courtesy, upon my word. May I have your name please?"

"You are most welcome, Sir Thoroncir. And in commanding a mixed company, it is rare for a knight of Rohan to find men of other nations who can acquit themselves so well on horseback. The men of Gondor did themselves honor today. Now, where may my horse and lance be best directed?"

Deor will set up shop in a room at the inn, unless it's been converted into a hospital, and begin Identifying items as quickly as possible. I don't have it prepared today, but I can begin setting up to do it.

Thoroncir clasps Theogrim's hand and says, "Thank you for those kind words, my friend. Rest for a moment, if you wish, and then see to the other Men of Rohan who came ashore with us. I would know who still lives and might need healing at the hand of my lady the Princess Gilraen, but also those whom we must sadly bury here, in honor but all too far from the fair green plains of Rohan."

Mulligan is quite happy for anyone else to accompany her around, but is grateful to Thoroncir for his company.

Hopefully, we can find something else for Deor to look over.

Bitur will accompany Mulligan in searching through the town. He will also catch up with Dugar about the goings on in Erebor.

Well, I think the tower is as good a place as any to start poking around. Let's make sure it is safe before we set up office fully.

Also given that it is a seaport, I would expect a few places for smugglers both in the town and possibly outside the town as well.

Theogrim will take a count of his men, and seek healing for the most gravely wounded. He will also seek replacement horses for any of his men who have lost theirs in battle. Once the men and horses are seen to, he will go to the inn and see if there is enough room for his men, or they should make a makeshift barracks elsewhere.

The skilled sword man on the tower roof, “Ah, you are an adventuring Elf from the north and I a professional fighter from the south but I am glad we meet as honored foes. My name is Sala, Sala of Kophra; a small and humble nearby village. It would appear I might be able to seek employment in your Lord’s army? I know both this Port and the local area fairly well and as you see, I can well defend myself.”

Sir Thoroncir works to bring order to the capture of the town and Theogrim helps to organize the transfer of wounded to the Inn for healing. In the end, many are dead from both the landing and the army but far more of the defenders. The burying of the dead is a full time job for the next few days with the soldiers of the north supervising the prisoners from the south. Where possible, every man is buried with honor and a small marker placed.

Mulligan begins a grand survey of the town. They hunt down secrets in towers and the main keep. The Dwarves, Bitur, Gwaelur and Dugar are able to assist greatly. Mulligan was wise to think of smuggler and black marketers. Though in one old warehouse another fight broke out that resulted in 2 men being injured. The smugglers could not harm the Dwarves and the one that tried to back stab was dispatched by Mulligan swiftly. No information is found about smuggler operations outside the town itself. The port is found to be well supplied and ready for a long siege. They had food for months in the warehouses and deep cisterns for water. It is best we took the town swiftly and before the army returned.

A goodly haul of treasure is found and in all about 30 magic items and dozens of potions. Perhaps more importantly is the access to supplies and large replenishment of horses and a secured wall Port to use as a base. Orodreth finds a large stallion that wears finely made chain barding and presents it to Thoroncir. “This was the mount of one of their Captains. I have learned his name is Baygir. The Sea Knights think you should take him for your own. He is not as swift as Sea Foam but appears far stronger and of great endurance.”

Barracks are made available by taking over existing barracks and some of the warehouses and the Keep of course. The Men of Rohan take the stables in the east of the town. Theogrim can stay with them or join his old friends near the inn.

There is an entire army to divide items and treasures among and the raiding is limited as we wish to create good will in the Port. Deor can Identify all the items in three days though he will be tired. The potions can be largely identified working with the local alchemist.

Thoroncir looks over and admires the horse, saying to Orodreth, "Thank you, my friend, for this very generous gift! I am grateful. I hope the stallion will give good service to a new master." When he is alone with the horse in the stables, he will feed, brush and curry it, and speak with it in Horse, introducing himself and learning all he can about it. What does "Baygir" mean in the local tongue? Is the horse amenable to serving him?

The Sea-knight waives any other claim to the treasure or magical items seized in the fall of the city.

He asks Gen. Haldon if King Elessar is thought to be anywhere close by.

Perhaps we should Detect Alignment on Sala and any other captive who now wishes to serve Gondor.

There's a local alchemist? Deor will talk to him and see if there's anything special to be learned. Exotic Haradric potion reagents, maybe, or special potion combinations!

Both Mulligan and Rorimac will follow Thoroncir's example and waive claim to any magical artifacts, although neither would be averse to taking a potion of healing for those just in case moments, which always seem to pop up. It is unlikely any of the magic would be useful for a hobbit as there are ot many of them in the area.

Rorimac will continue to help with the healing as best he is able, as well as trying to learn as much as he can from Ghan and Gilraen.

Having found as many secrets as possible, Mulligan is going to take some time out and relax until she is needed for anything else.

Now the dust has settled I shall call for wine and a quiet place to reflect. If Sala will remain with me for now, he will understand that I must temporarily require him to go unarmed, but his local knowledge will doubtless come in handy since Gondor would surely seek as swift and bloodless a resolution to this conflict as we can manage.

I will talk to him in between receiving reports of how the various parties in this battle conducted themselves, and compose both an account of the victory to be relayed to the King in due course and a fitting tribute to those who have lost their lives. If he would know more of my people and their ways, I am willing to tell him.

On the off chance that there are any items of legendary nature in the hoard, I will take time to look them all over.

Having aided Mulligan in her task, Bitur will make himself available for any other tasks as needed. During his free time he will visit with the children of the town and tell them stories of life in Erebor and the children there. He will also let them play with the clockwork toys, and tell them the histories of those. This will also give him an opportunity to study them more himself in hopes that maybe someday he can craft a toy of their equal.

The local alchemist is Dav Mentin and he runs a small shop with 2 journeymen and 3 apprentices. In talking with him he does have some different methods but not many. Most of Gondorian Alchemy seems to derive from down this way.

Baygir roughly means Great Stallion. Baygir is content to serve a human bright enough to learn to speak horse. He is a very powerful beast and proud of his service in battle. He is honored to serve a Captain of the mighty North.

King Elessar is not nearby; he is fighting a good distance off at the head of another army.

Sala (the swordsman) detects as Lawful Neutral when a Know Alignment is done. His rapier is magic. Does he get to keep it? He is proving very helpful.

Thoroncir finds over the next week Gilraen is very busy and he can only catch time with her when he aids her or catching a quick bite. She looks exhausted though the town folk are amazed by her skilled and presence. A rich merchant that owns a dozen ships wishes to build a temple to her God. She explains about the Valar and how they are Erü’s representatives and known as the Powers or Valar. Her Patron is Estë and the best way to celebrate her is to build a house of healing efficient and airy rather than a temple or the like.

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One items of use that stands out is the cloak of invisibility. It works differently from the ring Mulligan has but works fairly well.

The Red Shield is a spell enhancer for a few fire spells. Fire Shield, Protection from Fire, Burning Hands and Produce Fire are some of them.

The Wand does burning hands and is recharged with said. The command word of “Agni Fastu!” and a fan of flames shoot out from the tip of the wand. It is only usable by mages.

There are a few items of interest to the Horsemen. Though Thoroncir is covered as he picked up Baygir and his equipment.

There is a +5 heavy lance made of steal and hollow for low weight. It does triple damage on a charge instead of double.

There is also a set of magical chain barding +3 for any large horse.

There is a bridle that allows for complete control over a horse, gives it +2 to hit and dam and +25% endurance. This one might interest some of the others.

Gil-Gandel is probably most interested in the dozen +3 arrows collected from the battle.

Nothing is found but potions of interest to any of the Dwarves.

There are many healing draughts available. The most magical will head 3d8+9 damage. There are 6 of them.
6 potions of Fire Resistance.
3 potions of speed that do not work for Elves. Be warned the effects are strong, it ages the user 7-12 months. Duration is 12 minutes + D12 minutes.
Single potion that will cure paralysis; it has 7 doses of 1 ounce each. The special bottle it must be stored in once held 16 ounces.
A potion of levitation is available. It is in two parts. The first is applied to the soles of the boots and the second is drunk. It allows levitation for 1hours + 1-4 turns.

Thoroncir takes Gilraen aside, kisses her hand and says, "My lady, please, you must rest sufficiently, and enjoy some other diversions now and then; you know that you cannot do your work well otherwise. Come, let us ride on the beach together, or explore the city, or listen to Gil-Gandel play an Elven tune or two. In caring so conscientiously for others, do not neglect yourself, my love."

Over the next week, he will also patrol around the city in ever-widening circles with Aestirion, Orodreth and eight other selected Sea-knights (and Theogrim, of course, if he wishes). He wishes to ensure that Gondor's and Rohan's forces are well-positioned against any enemy counterattack, to scout out the surrounding countryside, and to become more familiar with his fine new warhorse.

Sala can hang on to his rapier as far as I am concerned. We'll sit down and discuss terms of service - an LN can be trusted to adhere to a negotiated agreement, especially if we can come up with one that works to his benefit as well. He should come in handy as an advisor to the peacekeeping force and as a liaison with any locals who are willing to accept the King's shilling, which should reduce friction with the civilians. If he doesn't want to swear permanent allegiance then a short-service commission might be a suitable compromise, on the understanding that any privileged information remains confidential after his term expires.

I certainly won't turn my nose up at a dozen good arrows - you never know when you may need to dish out some +3 grief in a hurry. :)

Footnote: While Gilraen is at work I will indeed provide music. It's already established that I can help the injured and weary to rest and recover, and I don't suppose a winter with Bombadil has hindered any. The larger the target audience, the more impact a bard has.

Both the Red Shield and the Wand are of interest to me, if no one else wants them.

I don't really cast fire spells - it's not out of the question that I'd pick up one from the druid portfolio some time but that's very, very much a side issue for me. It should go where it will be most used - that means you, Deor.

While he is not helping out Gilraen and healing, Rorimac will be looking for useful herbs in the area that could assist. Otherwise if he does get some free time, he will go fishing out in the bay if anyone would like to join him.

Having finished her exploration, Mulligan will help start getting the tavern running again, as it is always such a useful place to have running in the town.

Now that everything's Identified, Deor will talk to the locals and see if he can piece together a sense of the politics of the Harad. It might be that factionalism amongst them could provide the armies of Gondor with allies, or at least avoid creating new enemies. He'll start by talking to the locals within the tavern, then try to branch out to those who don't come in to the tavern often.

That's a great idea. Time permitting, Thoroncir will help with this, too - and will buy a round at the tavern for Theogrim and also his top Sea-knights in thanks for their hard work.

Theogrim will gladly accept the drink, as well as the invitation to join the patrol parties. He is also interested in the lance, the barding, and the bridle. Far be it from him to claim more than his share of the spoils, but any of the three would make him of better use to his friends and kingdom. Do we know who the erstwhile (and presumably late) owner was?

Gil-Gandel's music proves of beneficial value to those healing in the inn.
Sala proves useful as guide and translator over the week. Gil-Gandel could choose to try and pick up the Southron tongue if he wishes.


Someone might find that Magic Cloak that was found useful. Perhaps Rorimac or one of the Dwarves?

Theogrim, which of the three would be of the most desired by you?
The prior owner is now buried but he was one of the leaders. I believe one Theogrim himself hunted down.

The tavern is re-opened once the worst wounded are moved elsewhere. The town was fairly well run all things considered, but like most places it was not a good place to be in the lower classes. The nobles were not particularly cruel and the merchants not especially grasping.

Deor finds some locals he can speak to but not many. The alchemist was one of them. He does learn the town was semi-autonomous but sent taxes to the local Warlord and provided troops for the army. Additionally Deor feels there is something unsaid. Some dread that hangs over the town but not from within the town itself.

The Sea-Knights are happy for the round and several buy several more.


At the end of the week, General Haldon has a mission for some of you if willing. It includes asking Thoroncir to give up his first command. But he needs a group of skilled adventurers to handle a possible undead problem and also an issue with trolls. The Elendil will be reloading shortly for the next assignment.

Of the three, Theogrim would be most interested in the lance, followed by the bridle, then the barding. If there is someone else interested in the same items, Theogrim is willing to put his own current lance (+2) into the pot to go with the bridle and barding.

He is also most eager to join General Haldon's mission.

Yes, I'll seize any opportunity I get to learn a spot of Southron - also listen to any musicians they have about the place as I'm sure their style differs from what I'm used to in any number of interesting ways.

Having learned what Deor thinks he's picked up, I shall make the rounds with harp and pipe and - along with encouraging songs of peace and prosperity to come, as well as praise and honour for the fallen who did their duty - see if I can strike a responsive chord concerning this nameless dread. Also some more troll-hunting and undead-slaying would be highly agreeable.

Hey, what about that Red Mage? Let's bring him and interrogate him specially. He might be someone caught up in the fray like Sala, or else he might have his magic books around here somewhere. He's definitely got some spells I don't. Ask Sala about him before we bring him out, though, just to see if we can gain any knowledge before we begin talking to him.

Thoroncir greatly enjoyed his first taste of command, but will go wherever his King and Country need him. Of course he hopes Gilraen will come, too; has she taken his advice about not working quite so hard?

Perhaps Gil-Gandel can ask Sala confidentially why he thinks the local folk are on edge about something. The knight-errant and the princess (using her Know Lies ability through the ancient Rod of Kanotir) will also separately question the alchemist and any local government officials or notables about it: "We've noticed that something seems to trouble many of the people here. What is it? Do you feel personally in danger? Has it manifested itself in, say, the last decade? Does it have anything to do with the undead? Trolls, or some other creature? Will the people of Gondor and Rohan who come here be in any danger?" And so on.

Perhaps any trustworthy individual who seems on the verge of telling all can be offered resettlement with his or her family in Gondor, out of harm's way.

Well, it's nice to know that everyone is happy with the tavern.

The Red Mage certainly needs questioning. If he needs encouragement, Mulligan can come along. Otherwise she will be making sure the tavern is a safe place for all. And probably taking a cut into the bargain. ;)

Rorimac will take the cloak of invisibility if no-one else wants it. Waste not, want not.

Both of them are quite happy to go on the next mission concerning the undead and the trolls.

Theogrim gets the +5 heavy lance made of steal and hollow for low weight. It does triple damage on a charge instead of double. He surrenders his +2 Lance to another rider.

Gil-Gandel finds picking up of Southron easy for himself. He finds many of the local instruments a little odd, the oddest being a 3 valve trumpet-like device that is both loud and musical. The style of local music is close enough to what Gil-Gandel considers typical human to not phase him though tending a bit more to the deeper end of the scale.

Gil-Gandel pieces together that the Lords of the town may have sent sacrifices to the local undead beasty to appease it. It is no wonder no one wished to talk about it, but folk tales, stories and a little Elven Bardic charm does wonders to loosen tongues.


As to the Red Mage, Sala says he goes by the name of Gízzen and is not a local but someone sent by the local Warlord, a Lord Bar-zín. He will not talk and proves difficult to keep prisoner. Bitur who took him in hand has been forces to knock him unconscious once and fashion iron manacles for hands and feet to hold him.

Gilraen will be going with you. Indeed, she is the reason the General feels your group can handle the undead problem. Though he thinks you can handle the trolls without her.

The tavern reopens and does well with both the magical healer being in resident and a Minstrel of Gil-Gandel’s talent holding court in the great room. Mulligan finds herself making a small profit running the place.

Bitur finds himself a small hit with both the local smiths and the local kids. Was Bitur interested in any of the magic items? Perhaps a few potions at least?

If no one else wants them, I'll take one each of the potions of Fire Resistance, Speed, and Levitation. I'm not sure I'll use them, but I would like to try to reverse engineer them, and maybe learn how to make such a thing. But anyone who actually wants to use them (those outside the group included) should get first pick.