I entered our last battle before reaching the safety of Haven Hill filled with doubt for our success, worried about the mud and the eight hundred souls our thin line defends. But when the hour arrived and we approached our attack position, Chief and I crawling on our bellies to avoid detection, the misting rain and distant thunder rumbling filled me with excited joy and power; a new confidence. Not lust for blood or rage, nor false courage - fear had not completely left me but neither did my bones hear its council but a calming knowing that the Storm Lord who hath favored us each day of this venture was now aroused to anger and at my back driving blindingly against the monsters eyes.
Chief Horaz, stood and he flexed his muscles behind me you could the wood strain against him crackling as it was pulled taught. Shayla notched her first shot and I signaled them to loose their volley. The enemy were caught completely unaware - a distant crack of thunder concealing the arrows hissing flight towards them. Two enemies fell instantly dead, we saw one tumble to the roadway below and the Chief was frightening to behold as he snarled and launched another arrow.
I signaled Na'il and his dwur companions to move next, they were to execute a wide hook to the right flank of the enemy, and I would follow on an inside hook route to support him. The enemy was not thrown into complete disarray - it was clear they were well prepared and they were able to react rather quickly but their hurried rally to attack Na'il's flank brought their cavalry into my trap. I stepped out of the brush and as Na'il loosed a bolt of lightning into a near group of foes - killing most of them instantly, I put the flanking enemy forces to sleep, the Storm Lord blessed me with great power and their flanking attack was halted in its tracks.
Our archers continued their barrage; Na'il pressed on leading his team and loosed a second and third bolt devastating the enemy cavalry. As I sent a second group into a deep slumber I became increasingly aware of the horrific smell of burnt flesh and fur and enemy archers trying to get a bead on me. I moved behind Cade and helped him bring down an orc with a pair of hurled daggers before I was struck by an archer from above. I looked for help but everyone was engaged.
I staggered - there the arrow was projecting from my chest like a spar or bowsprit, it had penetrated my armor spell and become lodged in a rib, thankfully the armor spells protection guided it so it would not bounce into vital organs or I would have been killed instantly. Still I was now rendered hors de combat and decided to retire. I tried to call out to Horaz to join me he seemed to hear but not understand. He later told me that he had heard my cry but didn't understand it so he intensified his fire and finished off the archers on the hill.
I pulled my traveler from my coat and opened it to the bookmarked page - burning hands as a pair of enemy worgs set upon me. I was able to stumble away from their lunging attacks and read the spell from my book destroying the page but I succeeded in sending the beasts howling away badly seared for their trouble. I saw behind them an enemy archer previously not accounted for - he was moving in for the kill and all my allies were preoccupied. I looked to my book Charm Person was the next page open now, it was not damaged and so I began to read as I fell to a knee and Church leapt from his hiding place in my messenger bag. The archer seemed perplexed by my action - reading, kneeling in the rain, bleeding and the sight of the cat leaping from my side he hesitated before drawing an arrow from his quiver – I belted out the incantation and watched the page burn “Come friend” I shouted motioning with my hand to the archer.
Success! He lowered his weapon and scurried toward me. I pointed to a worg on Cade’s flank he understood me and fired on the beast. I then turned to survey my situation. I knew I had to withdraw so I looked to find a clear path away. Wind began to drive the rain upwards from the ground into my face, lightning sliced open the sky and the thunder slapped my breath away. There over my right side Na’il had somehow harnessed more lightning and struck the enemies commander with enough force to disintegrate him. I saw him explode in a grayish cloud of bone and burnt flesh in response to a simple touch by the dainty olven man. If Na’il continued to follow the plan he would finish his hook maneuver and I could retreat past him so I started towards him. My archer followed firing again at enemy reinforcements coming out of the darkness brought by the storm.
I got away; safe beyond even seeing the battle. I heard it faintly in the distance for a moment. I fell to the ground and allowed myself a moment of rest. Lightning struck a distant hilltop and I decided to cut this arrow away lest the sky mistake me for a tree. Rain poured over me washing fatigue away. I stood, alone and though I knew the Storm Lord was with me, I also knew it would not be wise to remain out of doors much longer – his fury being unpredictable. Na’il’s voice somehow reached me “more orcs” he cried. I looked at poor miserable Church; there is nothing quite as pathetic as a cat soaked to the bones. I tucked him back into his hiding spot and took him with me back into the darkness towards the din of battle.
My thoughts drifted oddly to Perry and the refugees. Knowing he was there to guard them let me then forget them and focus again; I turned my traveler to Sleep knowing that burning it would leave me defenseless should I live to need it tomorrow and that under these conditions I might not succeed in reading it and destroy the spell book for naught. As I approached the hill and figures became visible through the torrent I sensed Horaz out there alive and vibrant in a murderous rage, and my archer was struggling to recover after being struck by someone. I saw Shayla controlling the road checking the sleepers – with the water on the ground I suspected they may have drowned. It was knee deep in places, and rivulets poured from atop the hill around which the battle flowed.
Na'il sprinted up beside me and disabled the bulk of the remaining enemy with a powerful and frightening spell, Horaz, Shayla and Cade took care of the rest. Drazil tended to Ruggin and we hastened to return to the refugees. We found the bulk of them safe, and we hurried down the road to Kaska. The Storm Lord relented and we were greeted by friendly troops as we approached Havenhill. I finally felt that it was over, I could breathe easy and take some rest, relieved of the burden of looking over my shoulder constantly on guard for angry enemies. Seven were lost on the trail [The navigator recorded their names but the entry is illegible] to the arms of the gods, one taken for each hero who fought that day and lived who also numbered seven.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Living as Revenge
Tonight I write this by candle light on the long road to Haven Hill. I am tired beyond feeling, of knowing pain, hunger or my own name. Na'il has proven to be an even harhser task master than Shayla, driving the poor refugees of Rittersmarche beyond endurance. Somehow they keep going. Perry has nearly gone horse from muttering prayer after prayer and singing hymns. Shayla has brewed him some tea to help his throat so he can pray the way we might need him to in battle. The Graff Twembly seems only to have grown stronger at the head of his people.
Chief Horaz thinks the enemy will be on us tomorrow, probably as the sun sets, just before we estimate we can reach Kaska. The sky portents a storm which will make for a miserable eveneing and a slow trek through the mud on the morrow. 800 souls could be lost in this mud. I prayed for the storms but now regret invoking the hand of the storm lord. His presence in the chaos surrounding us has until now favored us. The battle at Twembly Manor was a great success though more than a few innocents were killed by the Pomarj forces including the Graff's wife and all but one of his children. We were able to rescue Cade's brother and some others but the brutality with which the others were butchered have sparked a dangerous desire for vengence in my comrades.
I have advised them to live as revenge. To go on to return like the tide to ebb away the foes beachces. For my part I am looking forward to meeting T. Mak and asking him if he had enjoyed his life which has reached its end. It may be many years from now but it drives me forward.
There are tremendous dangers ahead of us our scouts will seek out a reported enemy ambush site and we are expecting to be outnumbered fully five to one, discounting the vicious worg mounts of the enemy cavalry between us and safe harbor at Haven Hill.
There isn't time to continue writing this I have just been awakened by Na'il who noticed I had drifted off. The patern formed on the ground by the papers that fell and his words have unlocked a previously hidden answer to unlock Nystul's Werelight for me and I must document that epiphany before its evanesence causes the secret to be lost to me again.
Chief Horaz thinks the enemy will be on us tomorrow, probably as the sun sets, just before we estimate we can reach Kaska. The sky portents a storm which will make for a miserable eveneing and a slow trek through the mud on the morrow. 800 souls could be lost in this mud. I prayed for the storms but now regret invoking the hand of the storm lord. His presence in the chaos surrounding us has until now favored us. The battle at Twembly Manor was a great success though more than a few innocents were killed by the Pomarj forces including the Graff's wife and all but one of his children. We were able to rescue Cade's brother and some others but the brutality with which the others were butchered have sparked a dangerous desire for vengence in my comrades.
I have advised them to live as revenge. To go on to return like the tide to ebb away the foes beachces. For my part I am looking forward to meeting T. Mak and asking him if he had enjoyed his life which has reached its end. It may be many years from now but it drives me forward.
There are tremendous dangers ahead of us our scouts will seek out a reported enemy ambush site and we are expecting to be outnumbered fully five to one, discounting the vicious worg mounts of the enemy cavalry between us and safe harbor at Haven Hill.
There isn't time to continue writing this I have just been awakened by Na'il who noticed I had drifted off. The patern formed on the ground by the papers that fell and his words have unlocked a previously hidden answer to unlock Nystul's Werelight for me and I must document that epiphany before its evanesence causes the secret to be lost to me again.
Friday, August 13, 2010
End Game
Starday 1st Flocktime
This morning finds the towns folk assembling to attend a town hall meeting called by Grudi whom I should like very much to meet. I endured a less than ideal and restful sleep on the floor, insisting Shayla (and Church) use of the bed. The sky is red this morning, warning sailors of danger ahead. There is no fog, but a dry warm breeze that portends a miserable day and threats of dangerous storms.
Cade seems to be exceptionally agitated this morning and eager to get back to the manor house to rescue his brother and to extract his vengeance on Grudi and the others who have imprisoned and tormented him. I too would like to rescue his brother, and destroy the enemies of good and decent people that are poison to this land and the Jewel.
The enemy is well established in his position at the manor, designed for safety of a ruler and thus easily defended. I hope for some little known, forgotten or undiscovered entry we can exploit to obtain surprise and infiltrate the manor to split the enemy, killing him one at a time room to room quietly and quickly. Our soldiers however seem dead set upon a frontal assault, reckless but daring they hope they will catch the enemy off balance and not expecting such a move. I believe this is too much to hope for considering the discipline and organization the enemy has shown us thus far.
However, in light of my own recent planning flaws, I have told Cade that he is welcome to take the lead on this as he spent a good bit of his childhood here, his brother is involved and he has shown good sense about when to engage and to quit battle. I will follow him, though I made it a point to ask Perry to stay close as I need his protection while casting in close quarters of the manor house.
I should also like to find a large shield I can carry in front of me on the way to the house…
This morning finds the towns folk assembling to attend a town hall meeting called by Grudi whom I should like very much to meet. I endured a less than ideal and restful sleep on the floor, insisting Shayla (and Church) use of the bed. The sky is red this morning, warning sailors of danger ahead. There is no fog, but a dry warm breeze that portends a miserable day and threats of dangerous storms.
Cade seems to be exceptionally agitated this morning and eager to get back to the manor house to rescue his brother and to extract his vengeance on Grudi and the others who have imprisoned and tormented him. I too would like to rescue his brother, and destroy the enemies of good and decent people that are poison to this land and the Jewel.
The enemy is well established in his position at the manor, designed for safety of a ruler and thus easily defended. I hope for some little known, forgotten or undiscovered entry we can exploit to obtain surprise and infiltrate the manor to split the enemy, killing him one at a time room to room quietly and quickly. Our soldiers however seem dead set upon a frontal assault, reckless but daring they hope they will catch the enemy off balance and not expecting such a move. I believe this is too much to hope for considering the discipline and organization the enemy has shown us thus far.
However, in light of my own recent planning flaws, I have told Cade that he is welcome to take the lead on this as he spent a good bit of his childhood here, his brother is involved and he has shown good sense about when to engage and to quit battle. I will follow him, though I made it a point to ask Perry to stay close as I need his protection while casting in close quarters of the manor house.
I should also like to find a large shield I can carry in front of me on the way to the house…
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Copy of Correspondence
The navigator in addition to personal journals and magical formulae also wrote volumes of correspondence cited earlier as evidence of his psuedo chronology. Note that in the final letter to the prince he used the current date and again eludes to brewfest approaching. This final letter also evidences the navigators growing confidence in his magical powers as he dares to blast the princes decision to strip his friend of his title. It is not clear if the navigator ever sent this message as there are no records of a return correspondence. There is however the very real Kaska Penn Orchard Gymnasium and Library still in use today. Earlier letters are also included here.
Your Excellency Prince Olinstaad Corond,
I write to inform you that Rittersmarch has been taken by the enemy of the Pomarj. The Graf Twembly is a prisoner in his home patrolled by Men, Orc and Goblins. Your investigators Na’il, Drazil, Ruggin and Burton have arrived but may already have failed having gone to see your emissary Grudi who is in league with the enemy.
I also dare to protest your dismissal of Councilman Mesko following the brutal murder of his wife. You heap insult upon injury on a good and loyal servant. He is a friend; I have provided service to you at his request as a point of honor.
It is for the orphans, and the other weak and vulnerable taken by the enemy and fed to the Pomarj worms befouling the Jewel that I will continue to my campaign of harassment and destruction, not for you your highness. I have heard of your anger at Mesko for giving me commission to investigate this matter. I am not only a sailor, but a magoi able to make my anger known, to make revenge a living breathing ally, the insults paid him cascade down upon me your majesty.
If my last correspondence failed to reach you know now that your enemy numbers at least 300. Three score have fallen in the past week alone. Havenhill is a target for an impending march and the enemy holds the south bank of the Jewel where he wishes, able to cross with reinforcements at will.
This is not just another summer incursion following the hateful wars started by the celenian elves all those years ago. This is a new and vigorous offensive that might naught end at the edge of the disputed zone. I believe the offensive begins tomorrow with the start of Brewfest. I doubt this will reach you in time.
Your subjects have rendered services in total of 1,400 gold forges (400 Cuthbertines & 1,000 Le Toux of Thunderstrike – which is dying under plague quarantine). My own compensation arrangements were made with Mesko; I will seek recompense through his successor or if it pleases you to deal with this matter I require: the two acres of the Kaska Penn Orchard be made a memorial, a youth gymnasium and library to be erected there upon in tribute to the brave Uleki mailed foot squad that died there, and an acre in an over watch where I will erect my own tower to guard the site, the title of Baron and granting of a coat of arms. Should Rittersmarch be salvaged the Temple will be restored and I require 200 high crowns for my own expenses, that of my guards, guides and retainers including compensation to the ambassador from a friendly Sylvan nation.
Magoi Kildare Redding of Hardby
In Rittersmarch, 28th Harvester
Councilman Mesko,
I do not seek to raise undue alarm, but I must report what I have found though it disturbs me greatly to put quill to parchment to describe what I have discovered.
In the province, county or area known as Prinzfeld, there are along the southern bank of the Suss at least two remaining structures that can only be referred to as horror houses. They contain creatures most foul whose only purpose seems to be devouring the living flesh of your livestock, game and countrymen and putrefying their remains and pouring them into the Suss to poison it.
I have seen them in action (sketch included). They are similar to a monster known as a carrion crawler, a different breed, less dangerous perhaps being without the tentacles and armored carapace.
I say remaining structures because I have put the southernmost structure to fire and watched it collapse, killing most if not all of the monsters that were inside it. These structures are well guarded by more elite orc troops. The structure I destroyed was guarded by a score of goblins and orcs of the Pomarj and what my ranger called an ogre. Billet Perry’s skill at arms shined that day.
I report now from Thunderstrike. The town is in dire straits. The poisoning of the Suss has ruined the land and spread plague and contagion. The town has been put under quarantine and the local scholars are working with priests of Cuthbertine persuasion to provide succor to the citizens but they are vulnerable to attack, though I suspect that the enemy plans something else instead.
Looking at my maps of where enemy activity is rumored and known I suspect they will bypass the provinces north and march directly on to Havenhill, the provincial hamlets on the road being unable to mount a defense and Thunderstrikes Garrison disabled by plague. This will isolate Fort Stonewall & Hyle, leaving them with no lines of supply or communication, and thus doom them as well.
I beg of you to send what assistance you may be able to muster for the poor people of Thunderstrike. If it pleases the Prince, services have been rendered to my party by Cuthbertines in the amount of 400pg that should be repaid them as they were rendered in good faith to those who serve the crown, and in the amount of 1,000gp to Le Toux, the necromancer of Thunderstrike who is studying the monsters in hopes of discovering a means of counteracting the plague.
I am not returning to Havenhill, it is my intention to inspect the other towns in Prinzfeld and make mischief against the enemy with raids and ambushes until soldiers of the crown arrive to relieve us and expel the invaders who must number at least 300, less the 55 killed, by my estimates in this area. We are aided by an ambassador from a northern country beyond the mountains who shall remain anonymous but is deserving of mention, praise and gratitude as we could not have enjoyed even our modest success without him. The ambassador sends his best to the Prince.
Your Humble Servant
Magoi Kildare Redding of Hardby
Maps enclosed
Lord [Mesko],
We have made due haste in carrying out our charges and have met significant resistance including a PLATOON of enemy ELITE FOOT, thirty five strong, mixed orc, goblin and half-orc perhaps (see drawing). As some half-orcs are able to pass for men (as was my Bosun aboard Swallow) we should be
ALERT FOR SPIES & ENEMY OPERATIVES IN OUR MIDST.
The platoon enjoyed unshakable morale – no fear of magic and they seemed to be either intoxicated or enspelled, operating under some manner of altered mental state.
Goblin patrol subdued 1 day out (approx 16-20 miles north your position) featured trained archers (I am told this is unusual). Interrogations have produced nothing useful except that these enemies are led by a Turosh Mak, and they are convinced he will ‘eat us’ and such.
Uleki Dwarven footman also carried a message I’m forwarding, ten of them lost their lives to bring this to you.
My range tells me that there is some indication that the enemy is poisoning the Jewel River, reference Lukvich (Spl?) writings on the hateful wars – Cromwell knows the copy.
Your Humble Servant,
Master Kildare Redding
P.S. Please make an inquiry on my behalf with my tailor, have need of new shirt and a replacement bridge coat, as the wool is now dyed with blood, best wishes.
Your Excellency Prince Olinstaad Corond,
I write to inform you that Rittersmarch has been taken by the enemy of the Pomarj. The Graf Twembly is a prisoner in his home patrolled by Men, Orc and Goblins. Your investigators Na’il, Drazil, Ruggin and Burton have arrived but may already have failed having gone to see your emissary Grudi who is in league with the enemy.
I also dare to protest your dismissal of Councilman Mesko following the brutal murder of his wife. You heap insult upon injury on a good and loyal servant. He is a friend; I have provided service to you at his request as a point of honor.
It is for the orphans, and the other weak and vulnerable taken by the enemy and fed to the Pomarj worms befouling the Jewel that I will continue to my campaign of harassment and destruction, not for you your highness. I have heard of your anger at Mesko for giving me commission to investigate this matter. I am not only a sailor, but a magoi able to make my anger known, to make revenge a living breathing ally, the insults paid him cascade down upon me your majesty.
If my last correspondence failed to reach you know now that your enemy numbers at least 300. Three score have fallen in the past week alone. Havenhill is a target for an impending march and the enemy holds the south bank of the Jewel where he wishes, able to cross with reinforcements at will.
This is not just another summer incursion following the hateful wars started by the celenian elves all those years ago. This is a new and vigorous offensive that might naught end at the edge of the disputed zone. I believe the offensive begins tomorrow with the start of Brewfest. I doubt this will reach you in time.
Your subjects have rendered services in total of 1,400 gold forges (400 Cuthbertines & 1,000 Le Toux of Thunderstrike – which is dying under plague quarantine). My own compensation arrangements were made with Mesko; I will seek recompense through his successor or if it pleases you to deal with this matter I require: the two acres of the Kaska Penn Orchard be made a memorial, a youth gymnasium and library to be erected there upon in tribute to the brave Uleki mailed foot squad that died there, and an acre in an over watch where I will erect my own tower to guard the site, the title of Baron and granting of a coat of arms. Should Rittersmarch be salvaged the Temple will be restored and I require 200 high crowns for my own expenses, that of my guards, guides and retainers including compensation to the ambassador from a friendly Sylvan nation.
Magoi Kildare Redding of Hardby
In Rittersmarch, 28th Harvester
Councilman Mesko,
I do not seek to raise undue alarm, but I must report what I have found though it disturbs me greatly to put quill to parchment to describe what I have discovered.
In the province, county or area known as Prinzfeld, there are along the southern bank of the Suss at least two remaining structures that can only be referred to as horror houses. They contain creatures most foul whose only purpose seems to be devouring the living flesh of your livestock, game and countrymen and putrefying their remains and pouring them into the Suss to poison it.
I have seen them in action (sketch included). They are similar to a monster known as a carrion crawler, a different breed, less dangerous perhaps being without the tentacles and armored carapace.
I say remaining structures because I have put the southernmost structure to fire and watched it collapse, killing most if not all of the monsters that were inside it. These structures are well guarded by more elite orc troops. The structure I destroyed was guarded by a score of goblins and orcs of the Pomarj and what my ranger called an ogre. Billet Perry’s skill at arms shined that day.
I report now from Thunderstrike. The town is in dire straits. The poisoning of the Suss has ruined the land and spread plague and contagion. The town has been put under quarantine and the local scholars are working with priests of Cuthbertine persuasion to provide succor to the citizens but they are vulnerable to attack, though I suspect that the enemy plans something else instead.
Looking at my maps of where enemy activity is rumored and known I suspect they will bypass the provinces north and march directly on to Havenhill, the provincial hamlets on the road being unable to mount a defense and Thunderstrikes Garrison disabled by plague. This will isolate Fort Stonewall & Hyle, leaving them with no lines of supply or communication, and thus doom them as well.
I beg of you to send what assistance you may be able to muster for the poor people of Thunderstrike. If it pleases the Prince, services have been rendered to my party by Cuthbertines in the amount of 400pg that should be repaid them as they were rendered in good faith to those who serve the crown, and in the amount of 1,000gp to Le Toux, the necromancer of Thunderstrike who is studying the monsters in hopes of discovering a means of counteracting the plague.
I am not returning to Havenhill, it is my intention to inspect the other towns in Prinzfeld and make mischief against the enemy with raids and ambushes until soldiers of the crown arrive to relieve us and expel the invaders who must number at least 300, less the 55 killed, by my estimates in this area. We are aided by an ambassador from a northern country beyond the mountains who shall remain anonymous but is deserving of mention, praise and gratitude as we could not have enjoyed even our modest success without him. The ambassador sends his best to the Prince.
Your Humble Servant
Magoi Kildare Redding of Hardby
Maps enclosed
Lord [Mesko],
We have made due haste in carrying out our charges and have met significant resistance including a PLATOON of enemy ELITE FOOT, thirty five strong, mixed orc, goblin and half-orc perhaps (see drawing). As some half-orcs are able to pass for men (as was my Bosun aboard Swallow) we should be
ALERT FOR SPIES & ENEMY OPERATIVES IN OUR MIDST.
The platoon enjoyed unshakable morale – no fear of magic and they seemed to be either intoxicated or enspelled, operating under some manner of altered mental state.
Goblin patrol subdued 1 day out (approx 16-20 miles north your position) featured trained archers (I am told this is unusual). Interrogations have produced nothing useful except that these enemies are led by a Turosh Mak, and they are convinced he will ‘eat us’ and such.
Uleki Dwarven footman also carried a message I’m forwarding, ten of them lost their lives to bring this to you.
My range tells me that there is some indication that the enemy is poisoning the Jewel River, reference Lukvich (Spl?) writings on the hateful wars – Cromwell knows the copy.
Your Humble Servant,
Master Kildare Redding
P.S. Please make an inquiry on my behalf with my tailor, have need of new shirt and a replacement bridge coat, as the wool is now dyed with blood, best wishes.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Dire Straights
Freeday, 28th Planting
Today I find myself mystified, feeling foolish and in grave danger. My friend Mesko who bid me to make this trip in service to Ulek has had his title stripped, and his wife murdered. The prince’s new investigators that we found in R’march this morning reported that the prince was displeased with my note, and by Mesko’s decision to have me investigating this matter. Beyond the bruising of my pride was the sudden realization that this venture would not be profitable for me, and I would be back at square one in terms of finding a means to fund my research and to establish my own company. A grim and harsh reminder of why I chose to be a man of the sea and to leave games and politics to landlubbers.
That disappointment and horror paled against the fate of the town’s orphans. There are no street urchins or orphans to be found here. I was told they were moved to Courwood north for better care. Perry suggested that they’re removal was a ruse and as I’ve never heard of orphans being moved en masse before for anything but exploitation. I’m sure now that I will not find them in Courwood. I dare not dwell on their fates too long lest I never sleep again.
For her part Shayla the guide has agreed not to abandon us, she says she will stay on and assist as we continue our own investigation – to help Perry and St Cuthbert’s not the ungrateful fickle royals of Ulek. I told all of our team that in two days come what may I make my way north to Courwood and beyond on my way home. Cade has discovered that his brother may be prisoner in the Manor of the Graf and I am afraid the prince’s elite investigators are on their way into a trap. Cade has also found the enemy patrolling the grounds of the manor and so we are preparing our own assault against it but this night, Cade continues his own probing alone. I have done what I can to prepare him and wished him well. Perry and I shall pray for him this evening.
Of Friends and Islands
Earthday 27th Planting
Friends are islands in a sea of indifference. Each is a unique creation with its own beauty and gifts to offer and explore. They often come to our horizon unexpectedly and are a joy to discover.
My day began with preparations to depart with my team for Rittersmarch, perhaps the last stop in our quest. I had heard while preparing my own equipment that some of the monsters we tried to kill were washing up on the shore, dead. I went to investigate and it appears the monsters are unable to swim and so drowned when we burnt their home to the ground and they fled the fire. Thus I have also determined they are not particularly intelligent. I found a large group of folks engaged in study of the carcasses led by a necromancer name Le Toux. He was using some magic to avoid the nauseating effects of the monsters odor and directing the others in collecting samples and the like.
I managed to get his attention to discuss his findings and compare notes [these do not appear anywhere in the navigators papers] and he invited me into his home to discuss the other monsters over tea. His quarters were immaculate and reminded me of home. I spent the entire morning in his company and he gifted me a number of fine articles including a new set of clothes to replace the second set of clothes I had brought with me, ruined by goblin and orc gore yesterday. Though gaudy by comparison to my usual attire, the floor length cloak had enough expertly placed pockets for all the magical components I could ever need, and the hat added a dashing flair with its stripe and feather that even Perry had to admire my appearance. It felt good to be clean, and to look good again.
His work forced him to leave me there to finish dressing. I was happy to be away from the horrors and death outside but I found myself hurrying to rejoin him. It was nearing noon, the hour I told my companions we would depart so I dragged myself away from him with the gifts he had given me afraid I might not see him again.
On the way to Rittersmarch I found the new outfit’s boots to be more comfortable than I had guessed but had to remove the feather as Churchill found it to be an irresistable plaything.
Friends are islands in a sea of indifference. Each is a unique creation with its own beauty and gifts to offer and explore. They often come to our horizon unexpectedly and are a joy to discover.
My day began with preparations to depart with my team for Rittersmarch, perhaps the last stop in our quest. I had heard while preparing my own equipment that some of the monsters we tried to kill were washing up on the shore, dead. I went to investigate and it appears the monsters are unable to swim and so drowned when we burnt their home to the ground and they fled the fire. Thus I have also determined they are not particularly intelligent. I found a large group of folks engaged in study of the carcasses led by a necromancer name Le Toux. He was using some magic to avoid the nauseating effects of the monsters odor and directing the others in collecting samples and the like.
I managed to get his attention to discuss his findings and compare notes [these do not appear anywhere in the navigators papers] and he invited me into his home to discuss the other monsters over tea. His quarters were immaculate and reminded me of home. I spent the entire morning in his company and he gifted me a number of fine articles including a new set of clothes to replace the second set of clothes I had brought with me, ruined by goblin and orc gore yesterday. Though gaudy by comparison to my usual attire, the floor length cloak had enough expertly placed pockets for all the magical components I could ever need, and the hat added a dashing flair with its stripe and feather that even Perry had to admire my appearance. It felt good to be clean, and to look good again.
His work forced him to leave me there to finish dressing. I was happy to be away from the horrors and death outside but I found myself hurrying to rejoin him. It was nearing noon, the hour I told my companions we would depart so I dragged myself away from him with the gifts he had given me afraid I might not see him again.
On the way to Rittersmarch I found the new outfit’s boots to be more comfortable than I had guessed but had to remove the feather as Churchill found it to be an irresistable plaything.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Victory, Our First It Seemed
Waterday, 26 Planting
Luck was with us this day. We had made very good time using the ranger’s knowledge of the territory. We reached the enemies strong point along the river banks. They had constructed a stout and sturdy wooden structure there. They took pains to clear a perimeter including marking paths and guard posts. There was an ogre and a dozen or so foes, a mix of orcs and goblins we’d seen before. This was the first opportunity we enjoyed to plan an engagement with the enemy, and though we were not compelled to action by circumstance, our hearts demanded that we take the opportunity to deal the enemy a blow, any setback for the friends they had taken from us.
We hatched a plan for quick raid intent on damaging or destroying the structure and hopefully the monsters inside with fire. I hoped to be able to capture or kill the ogre and most of his forces and told the team to be ready for a hasty retreat. Everyone had their assignments that hinged on carefully coordinated timing, and force of arms. The plan in retrospect was of an order of magnitude that represented the limits of our capabilities, accounting for the presence of our guardian angel and easily beyond our abilities without him. The sunlight was failing, and with it any advantage we’d enjoy from daylight in our raid against the orcs.
All in all the attack was an astounding success from the beginning. Billet Perry blessed us and the first arrow was lit and notched. It landed perfectly and sent burning splinters and shards scattering across the roof top of the enemy’s structure. Shayla launched more arrows pouring fire into the structure and causing confusion (but not quite panic) in the foe. Tiny goblins tried to form a fire brigade with tiny wooden pails, and the orcs chastised them for their efforts; driving them instead into battle. Shayla then began to move to another position from which to fire at our foes, her instructions were to fire, move and fire. I signaled to Church and Cade to begin their attack when ready and Cade continued to prove he can be a deadly business adversary.
I watched the action unfold and picked the time to cast the sleep spell. I had originally intending to take the ogre down with the spell but I sensed there was not enough power here to take him so I listened to god’s whispered will and targeted a group of orcs that had massed to investigate Cade’s advance. I pushed Perry into the clearing, following immediately behind him with the intent to draw the monsters attention. Shayla was facing off against the ogre and two monsters that joined him; Shayla was in trouble it seemed until our invisible guardian joined her. I couldn’t see precisely what happened behind two large boulders there between us; I had to trust they would win the day. Would the pair of rangers be able to join Perry and me before the half dozen monsters charging at us tore us asunder?
I found myself awash in goblin and orc blood, Perry’s pre-battle prayer had focused him and he was destroying goblin after goblin with uncanny ease. Brains and bits of skull splattered all around him causing the smaller monsters to lose their nerve and flee. Then horror as I wiped away a bit of gore from my face to see Cade fall. Only a moment before Cade had called out a warning to wisely end the raid. I called out to hold the line; he pressed the attack and paid for my pride with his blood. I looked for the rangers and saw they were on their way to help us. I stumbled back over one of the two orcs I had killed. One of their eerily human like eyes was still jammed onto my dagger; I saw one last orc sizing me up knowing I was seriously hurt by his comrades. I think he gave me a moment to see if I would collapse from loss of blood. Even I couldn’t tell where their blood ended and my own began. I took the opportunity to draw the sword I captured on the 23rd, pointed it at him and offered him quarter if he would surrender.
The next thing I can remember is the rangers and Perry hoisting me up onto my feet telling me to get to the horses! I stopped for a moment looking over my shoulder to see the roof of the building collapse and what was left of its walls fall into the Jewel. I took stock, all my companions had survived and the ranger was off to continue to fight his way. We made our way into the night and we all prayed to reach Thunderstrike safely. Fittingly we arrived to the greetings of religious pilgrims camped outside of the town on 27th Planting. Thunderstrike was under quarantine. A plague likely caused by the poisoning of their water supplies had taken hold. The ranger knight was there so we invited him to council and began to make plans for the29th, the earliest estimate of when we would be together ready for action.
Luck was with us this day. We had made very good time using the ranger’s knowledge of the territory. We reached the enemies strong point along the river banks. They had constructed a stout and sturdy wooden structure there. They took pains to clear a perimeter including marking paths and guard posts. There was an ogre and a dozen or so foes, a mix of orcs and goblins we’d seen before. This was the first opportunity we enjoyed to plan an engagement with the enemy, and though we were not compelled to action by circumstance, our hearts demanded that we take the opportunity to deal the enemy a blow, any setback for the friends they had taken from us.
We hatched a plan for quick raid intent on damaging or destroying the structure and hopefully the monsters inside with fire. I hoped to be able to capture or kill the ogre and most of his forces and told the team to be ready for a hasty retreat. Everyone had their assignments that hinged on carefully coordinated timing, and force of arms. The plan in retrospect was of an order of magnitude that represented the limits of our capabilities, accounting for the presence of our guardian angel and easily beyond our abilities without him. The sunlight was failing, and with it any advantage we’d enjoy from daylight in our raid against the orcs.
All in all the attack was an astounding success from the beginning. Billet Perry blessed us and the first arrow was lit and notched. It landed perfectly and sent burning splinters and shards scattering across the roof top of the enemy’s structure. Shayla launched more arrows pouring fire into the structure and causing confusion (but not quite panic) in the foe. Tiny goblins tried to form a fire brigade with tiny wooden pails, and the orcs chastised them for their efforts; driving them instead into battle. Shayla then began to move to another position from which to fire at our foes, her instructions were to fire, move and fire. I signaled to Church and Cade to begin their attack when ready and Cade continued to prove he can be a deadly business adversary.
I watched the action unfold and picked the time to cast the sleep spell. I had originally intending to take the ogre down with the spell but I sensed there was not enough power here to take him so I listened to god’s whispered will and targeted a group of orcs that had massed to investigate Cade’s advance. I pushed Perry into the clearing, following immediately behind him with the intent to draw the monsters attention. Shayla was facing off against the ogre and two monsters that joined him; Shayla was in trouble it seemed until our invisible guardian joined her. I couldn’t see precisely what happened behind two large boulders there between us; I had to trust they would win the day. Would the pair of rangers be able to join Perry and me before the half dozen monsters charging at us tore us asunder?
I found myself awash in goblin and orc blood, Perry’s pre-battle prayer had focused him and he was destroying goblin after goblin with uncanny ease. Brains and bits of skull splattered all around him causing the smaller monsters to lose their nerve and flee. Then horror as I wiped away a bit of gore from my face to see Cade fall. Only a moment before Cade had called out a warning to wisely end the raid. I called out to hold the line; he pressed the attack and paid for my pride with his blood. I looked for the rangers and saw they were on their way to help us. I stumbled back over one of the two orcs I had killed. One of their eerily human like eyes was still jammed onto my dagger; I saw one last orc sizing me up knowing I was seriously hurt by his comrades. I think he gave me a moment to see if I would collapse from loss of blood. Even I couldn’t tell where their blood ended and my own began. I took the opportunity to draw the sword I captured on the 23rd, pointed it at him and offered him quarter if he would surrender.
The next thing I can remember is the rangers and Perry hoisting me up onto my feet telling me to get to the horses! I stopped for a moment looking over my shoulder to see the roof of the building collapse and what was left of its walls fall into the Jewel. I took stock, all my companions had survived and the ranger was off to continue to fight his way. We made our way into the night and we all prayed to reach Thunderstrike safely. Fittingly we arrived to the greetings of religious pilgrims camped outside of the town on 27th Planting. Thunderstrike was under quarantine. A plague likely caused by the poisoning of their water supplies had taken hold. The ranger knight was there so we invited him to council and began to make plans for the29th, the earliest estimate of when we would be together ready for action.
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