Planning continues
Subject Planning
Fal is also concerned about the two being in the enemy camp alone? Isn't there a way that we could set some kind of trap for them and lure them out of their camp? Fal admits that he doesn't know much about combat strategy, but is still worried about the proposed plan.
From: Karl
Subject Spell list
Speaking of spell lists, I'd like to modify mine. I was going to earlier, but the morning snuck up on me before I could update the sheet on Sakeriver.
From: Karl
Subject Spell list
Cancel that. In re-reading the spell descriptions, I think I'm better off with the line-up I have now.
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Harp will ask Surin to try and draw a diagram of the camp, focusing on how close the camp is to the woods at the rear and the layout of the shack.
After reviewing Surins diagram, Harp will continue discussing with Ran
"Sir, if we can get to the back of the fort, Surin can sneak in as before, and secret himself under the shack. At a given signal or time (Surin can determine which he would rather use), we see if Salix can find a way to affect the wood making up the back of the fort wall - if he can make a hole large enough for me, we can all sneak into the camp, our ranger freinds taking out any goblins sentrys if needed. We make a dash for the shack, three of us on a side. We can have Cai summon a creature such as that wolf she called up recently, or if any of the rest of us can do so, we summon an ally or creature that can wreak havoc in the camp. The noise of the attack should bring that 1/2 orc to the front of the shack.
We come at him from both sides, maybe having Fal grease him. When Surin hears the noise, he comes out from under the shack, pulls off some rear wall boards, grabs Rochelle, and makes his way back to the rear of the camp, out through our hole, and gets Rochelle back to where we have hobbled the horses. Wecan either continue to try to defeat the 1/2 orc, or we can retreat once we have our prize."
Harp will listen to any comments Ran has, and any suggestions any others might have.
From: Jason
Subject Planning
Cai finally speaks up:
"I like the idea in general, but I think there are a couple things we need to address. First, and no offense to Surin, who has already proven himself indispensable, but Rochelle is a human noblewoman. Are we sure that she'll just get up and follow an unknown halfling who crawls into the room through a hole in the floor and tells her she has to exit the same way?
Second, and this isn't necessarily a problem, but you should be aware that when I call a woodland ally to my aid, the reply is very short; something on the order of 10-15 seconds. While its possible that a wolf in the camp might be able to create the stir we're looking for in such a short time, it might not."
ooc: Sorry about the confusion, but do we generally keep the turns going over the weekend as well? I started during last weekend it seems, but this weekend was much quieter and so I didn't post anything. I'll try to post a few more constructive ideas tonight after my exam this evening.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
"I don't like the idea of Surin being alone in the building. If the leader of the fort does not react to the diversion as we plan, his other choice may be to simply kill Rochelle. This is especially true if he believes that the reason for the commotion is that the person who hired him has come to take her without giving the rest of the payment."
Ran pauses for a moment, Harps idea would require a lot more battle and after the beating they took the previous night he is not ready to commit to that if it can be avoided.
"I think that if everyone enters the fort, we will not be able to avoid fighting all of the creatures within it. If my plan works, we will be able to get away with a minimum of conflict. I know it is a long shot but I am pretty dextrous and I feel like I could probably get in with Surin leading the way. I believe that I can handle the 1/2 orc, at least long enough to allow Surin to get Rochelle out. I think that Rochelle will be more than willing to go with anyone who offers her freedom from these foul creatures. If we were well rested, and if it were not for the tragic loss of our brave companion Alatyr, I believe your idea would well suit our task. However, given the circumstances, I would like to avoid a full scale battle here."
At the mention of Alatyr, Rans voice falters slightly and his eyes look downward. He finishes his statement with confidence and then adds, "If there is one other among us who feels they could accompany Surin and I into the fort, I would accept the help." As he says this his eyes turn to Kal, the elf who saved his life.
From: Karl
Subject Planning
"I might be of help inside the fort", Salix says. "If I can get to the shack where Rochelle is being held, I might be able to help get her out. By the grace of Obad-Hai, I have some skill with wood. Perhaps I could make a hole in the back wall to get her out, or warp the door closed to keep the brute out of her room? This ability is limited, but I could probably warp two separate wooden objects and shape a third object once."
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Harp: "I don't like the idea of Surin being alone in the building.
If the leader of the fort does not react to the diversion as we plan, his other choice may be to simply kill Rochelle. This is especially true if he believes that the
reason for the commotion is that the person who hired him has come to take her without giving the rest of the payment."
Kal, who has been listening attentively up to this point, speaks up when Harp says this:
"Orcs are nasty, distrusting creatures with no honor. I fear that his human blood only serves to make our enemy more cunning, not less bloodthirsty. Harp here understands his primal thoughts in a way us elves can't. I agree with his analysis. It seems much too risky to leave the fate of the girl up to the self control of a half-orc who's on a power trip."
Kal, after saying that, goes back to listening until Ran speaks up.
Ran: "I know it is a long shot but I am pretty dexterous and I feel like I could probably get in with Surin leading the way. I believe that I can handle the 1/2 orc, at least long enough to allow Surin to get Rochelle out. I think that Rochelle will be more than willing to go with anyone who offers her freedom from these foul creatures."
Kal responds:
"It is my opinion that we should concentrate on killing their leader, as well as freeing Rochelle. This Half-orc is a menace as long as he is left alive. It would seem a shame to rescues Rochelle only to have this band pillage and rape an entire village in two weeks.
With that being the case, I would volunteer to join you inside the fort. I'm equipped with climbing gear and I could certainly move through their fort undetected. Once we get within the leader's hut, another warrior would be invaluable to you, Ran. I think the two of us could get the jump on the half-orc and slay him before help arrived.
If he proves to be too strong to kill quickly, we occupy him while Salin leads Rochelle to the wall, where the fourth member of our incursion team would be waiting to help get her over the well.
I can rig up a system with ropes that would make our exit much faster than climbing. We would need someone pulling on the other end, but the yet unnamed fourth person could assist Salin and Rochelle, and then Salin and the fourth assist us."
OOC: Mark -- I'm envisioning a simple system with pulleys and a couple of footholds tied in the rope that would allow us to just be lifted over the wall. Weight may be a problem -- if it is, I can rig up a double pulley system. That sound ok?
From: Randy
Subject Planning
"Salix, I think your abilities may be more helpful in creating the diversion. Perhaps you can get some of the opponents entangled near the front of the gate, or if it becomes apparent that we are in trouble, you may be able to get the rest of the party inside the fort."
"I think that Kal will acompany Surin and I into the fort and we will take out the leader while Surin frees Rochelle."
"Harp, will you and Salix plan out a diversion that you think will draw the greatest number of the enemy to the front of the gate? Surin, how much time will we need to get under the building? Harp will need to wait until that time has passed before he can begin his work as we don't want to get spotted by those rushing to the gate."
"If there are no further objections, I think that we will be able to pull this off."
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Ran, I am concerned with dividing our forces. Whether we have the diversion inside the compound or out, I would rather have our group within distance to assist if need. However, I will do as you instruct, though my heart tells me it is not wise.
Harp will then converse with the other party members -
Salix, if we have need to enter the fort, do you have a way for us to get through the gate? Any way to affect the wood of the gate? Is there any other way we can ask/use our natural surroundings to help us?
Fal, do you have any ability to create noises or lights that might confuse those inside into thinking we have a larger group than we do?
Surin, is there anything else you may be able to remember about the entrance to the camp - how is the gate secured - how stout does it look? How open is the terrain in the front of the camp - how close can we get to the gate without easily being seen?
Bel and Cai - can you think of anything extra you can do to help us? Cai, I know that you were able to bring the forest alive previously; that might be a good way to help even the odds should we need to enter the compound. Bel, can you think of any spells you might be able to employ that might help create confusion?
From: Karl
Subject Planning
"Wouldn't it be better to avoid alarming them altogether if at all possible?" Salix asks. "What if we sneak down to an unguarded part of the wall. I'm sure I can warp one of the timbers enough that even Harp could get through, if necessary. Then Surin and I could sneak to the shack. With my God's grace I could open a hole in back wall of Rochelle's cell, warp her cell door so the brute will be delayed if he tries to check on her, then we sneak her out the back. We only need risk arousing the camp if we're discovered. By then, the surprise will add to the confusion and we'd be dealing with a few groggy goblins rather than a whole camp that has been put on alert by a distraction at the gate."
He looks at the group to see what they think
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Harp is much more agreeable with this plan, especially since it allows the group easier access to the camp through the warped (or reshaped) timbers of the back wall.
From: Josh
Subject Planning
"I think killing the half-orc -- and as many goblins as posssible -- should be a priority as well. I know your mission is to save the girl, but I think it is also important to stop this band from causing any more trouble.
Do you think it would be possible to wait until the half orc is sleeping, and then kill him in his sleep while rescuing Rochelle?"
From: Karl
Subject Planning
The problem is that we do not know the half-orc's schedule. That and he is probably on higher alert now that he is expecting trouble, though not from us." Salix thinks for a moment. "Our first priority is to the lady. Until she is safe, nothing else matters. If we can get in and out without arousing anyone, all the better. I do not think it is wise to stir them up more than necessary until the Lady Rochelle is safely away."
"Also, this is a dark and evil land as I'm sure you've witnessed. This band is but a drop in the bucket of dangers here. It is not our place to ease the troubles of this land if it in any way risks our Lady. She is our only priority here," Salix says firmly. Then, as if realizing he has spoken out of turn, he looks somewhat appologetically at Ran.
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
Fal has a Pyrotechnic spell.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
Ran mulls over many options in his head. 'Will there be an unguarded part of the wall? If a battle ensues, how do we secure a safe exit for Lady Rochelle? Will making a hole in the wall make a lot of noise? Am I just being prideful and stubborn trying to stick with my plan?'
Finally he settles on a decision.
"Salix, I feel that your plan has a lot of merit. I have a concern though. Will opening a hole in the wall make much noise?"
If Salix answers that there will be almost no noise then Ran will respond with the following:
"Then we have a plan. You will open a hole in the wall of the fort. I will enter with Surin and Kal and we will make our way to the hut. We will dispose of the 1/2 orc and make our escape back through the hole in the fort. We won't need a hole opened in the wall of the hut as it sounds like we can get in through the floor boards and that will likely draw even less attention. If a commotion rises up while we are in the hut, you will need to move the conflict away from our escape route so that Surin can get Lady Rochelle to safety."
If Salix answers that it will be pretty loud then Ran will say:
"I do appreciate that there may be a way for us to get in and out without being spotted. I propose that we go with the plan as I have outlined, only instead of a diversion we have our feathered companions monitor the situation from above. If they report any problems to you, then you breach the wall and try to draw attention away from us. This way, we only fight if absolutely necessary. Kal, Surin, and I will take out the 1/2 orc on the inside and will try to do so without too much noise while we rescue Lady Rochelle. I think this is our best chance."
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
When the final plan is determined, Harp will remind the Rangers to refill their quivers with some of the arrows they had purchased back in Impact.
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Cai is a little disappointed that the group seems to be deciding on a plan that leaves most of the goblins alive and unharmed, but her head recognizes that it is the best plan.
She asks Surin "How easy was it to get in under the shack and come up through the floorboards? Not having seen it myself, it seems that it would certainly be much faster to have Salix let us in both the palisade and the shack."
She turns to Fal and asks "How long does your sleep spell last? And if you were to put the leader to sleep, would the goblins be able to wake him up?"
Finally she turns to Ran and says "If we are discovered, it occurrs to me that one possible diversion to help us get away is to set fire to various parts of the camp. Goblins are lazy and most likely have not fireproofed their tents. Most of the grass is probably long dead, but if not it will spread quickly, and if so the two of us might be able to light a few tents with burning arrows, though only if we prepare for that possbility beforehand."
ooc If we haven't headed in by tonight, I'll look over my spell list like the others are doing and I may change it.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
Ran listens attentively to Cai and responds, "Going through the floorboards gives us the advantage of not being out in the open at the side of the hut while a spell is cast. Unless Surin thinks otherwise, I prefer to approach it in this manner. I do like the idea of using fire as a diversion though. Please prepare for that possibility."
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
OOC: Mark, does the Pyrotechnic spell have to be aimed at an enemy, or could I shoot it into the air to draw the enemies out of their camp?
From: Jake
Subject planning
A grin breaks out unbidden on Surin's face. He likes this new member of the party. "I reckon there's some truth to what you're saying there, my friend. What do you think of this though--they're expecting people--half orcs, humans, they don't know what, just people--to show up with a pile of gold to trade for the girl. They've got to be a little nervous after Tiny's performance down there," he jerks his thumb toward the goblin camp, "that him as hired them'll be planning to just march in and take Rochelle off their hands, maybe lop off a few heads while he's at it.
Seems to me they'd be mighty relieved to see somebody claimin' to be from the boss ride up with a couple of sacks of gold. Now, we just happen to have more gold than we know what to do with right here, don't we? Might be Ran and a human or two could ride into their camp like they belong there an' bluff their way into a meeting with Tiny. Meanwhile, Kal here and me could sneak our way in and get into position. When we're all four ready, we could take him at once. He'd never know what hit him, and if we could do it quick enough in a spot his goblins couldn't see, it could be that the two'd be able to just ride on out of camp with her. What do you think ofthat?"
From: Jake
Subject Planning
I sent this not realizing that there were lots of email messages more recent than the one I was responding to. Nonetheless, I think the turn still fits.
From: Jake
Subject Planning
OOC: Karl, does Salix have to be able to see or touch the surface that he's warping?
"How easy was it to get in under the shack and come up through the floorboards? Not having seen it myself, it seems that it would certainly be much faster to have Salix let us in both the palisade and the shack."
"Easy enough, for me. You big folk might have a bit more trouble though. Long as you're not wearing a lot of armor I think you could do it though."
Surin starts laughing. "I just had a thought. Salix, could you open up a hole right underneath the half orc's feet? You and I could be under there, and as soon as the hole opened up and he fell through we could start hacking at his legs and feet. Maybe slice right through a couple of essential tendons. That'd surprise him! If you could shape the wood so he was trapped with his feet in the hole so much the better. We could keep sticking him, and he couldn't get at us, at least for a bit. Meanwhile Ran and this new fellow could be up above hacking him to bitty little bits while he was trapped.
From: Jason
Subject Planning
ooc: I was about to update my char sheet to reflect the arrows that you all bought for us before I joined, but I can't seem to find how many arrows you actually bought, much less how many were given to me. I saw mention of buying about 100 arrows, but nothing definite.
Thanks for the help!
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Kal smiles broadly. "I very much like this plan."
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
Fal is also concerned about the two being in the enemy camp alone? Isn't there a way that we could set some kind of trap for them and lure them out of their camp? Fal admits that he doesn't know much about combat strategy, but is still worried about the proposed plan.
From: Karl
Subject Spell list
Speaking of spell lists, I'd like to modify mine. I was going to earlier, but the morning snuck up on me before I could update the sheet on Sakeriver.
From: Karl
Subject Spell list
Cancel that. In re-reading the spell descriptions, I think I'm better off with the line-up I have now.
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Harp will ask Surin to try and draw a diagram of the camp, focusing on how close the camp is to the woods at the rear and the layout of the shack.
After reviewing Surins diagram, Harp will continue discussing with Ran
"Sir, if we can get to the back of the fort, Surin can sneak in as before, and secret himself under the shack. At a given signal or time (Surin can determine which he would rather use), we see if Salix can find a way to affect the wood making up the back of the fort wall - if he can make a hole large enough for me, we can all sneak into the camp, our ranger freinds taking out any goblins sentrys if needed. We make a dash for the shack, three of us on a side. We can have Cai summon a creature such as that wolf she called up recently, or if any of the rest of us can do so, we summon an ally or creature that can wreak havoc in the camp. The noise of the attack should bring that 1/2 orc to the front of the shack.
We come at him from both sides, maybe having Fal grease him. When Surin hears the noise, he comes out from under the shack, pulls off some rear wall boards, grabs Rochelle, and makes his way back to the rear of the camp, out through our hole, and gets Rochelle back to where we have hobbled the horses. Wecan either continue to try to defeat the 1/2 orc, or we can retreat once we have our prize."
Harp will listen to any comments Ran has, and any suggestions any others might have.
From: Jason
Subject Planning
Cai finally speaks up:
"I like the idea in general, but I think there are a couple things we need to address. First, and no offense to Surin, who has already proven himself indispensable, but Rochelle is a human noblewoman. Are we sure that she'll just get up and follow an unknown halfling who crawls into the room through a hole in the floor and tells her she has to exit the same way?
Second, and this isn't necessarily a problem, but you should be aware that when I call a woodland ally to my aid, the reply is very short; something on the order of 10-15 seconds. While its possible that a wolf in the camp might be able to create the stir we're looking for in such a short time, it might not."
ooc: Sorry about the confusion, but do we generally keep the turns going over the weekend as well? I started during last weekend it seems, but this weekend was much quieter and so I didn't post anything. I'll try to post a few more constructive ideas tonight after my exam this evening.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
"I don't like the idea of Surin being alone in the building. If the leader of the fort does not react to the diversion as we plan, his other choice may be to simply kill Rochelle. This is especially true if he believes that the reason for the commotion is that the person who hired him has come to take her without giving the rest of the payment."
Ran pauses for a moment, Harps idea would require a lot more battle and after the beating they took the previous night he is not ready to commit to that if it can be avoided.
"I think that if everyone enters the fort, we will not be able to avoid fighting all of the creatures within it. If my plan works, we will be able to get away with a minimum of conflict. I know it is a long shot but I am pretty dextrous and I feel like I could probably get in with Surin leading the way. I believe that I can handle the 1/2 orc, at least long enough to allow Surin to get Rochelle out. I think that Rochelle will be more than willing to go with anyone who offers her freedom from these foul creatures. If we were well rested, and if it were not for the tragic loss of our brave companion Alatyr, I believe your idea would well suit our task. However, given the circumstances, I would like to avoid a full scale battle here."
At the mention of Alatyr, Rans voice falters slightly and his eyes look downward. He finishes his statement with confidence and then adds, "If there is one other among us who feels they could accompany Surin and I into the fort, I would accept the help." As he says this his eyes turn to Kal, the elf who saved his life.
From: Karl
Subject Planning
"I might be of help inside the fort", Salix says. "If I can get to the shack where Rochelle is being held, I might be able to help get her out. By the grace of Obad-Hai, I have some skill with wood. Perhaps I could make a hole in the back wall to get her out, or warp the door closed to keep the brute out of her room? This ability is limited, but I could probably warp two separate wooden objects and shape a third object once."
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Harp: "I don't like the idea of Surin being alone in the building.
If the leader of the fort does not react to the diversion as we plan, his other choice may be to simply kill Rochelle. This is especially true if he believes that the
reason for the commotion is that the person who hired him has come to take her without giving the rest of the payment."
Kal, who has been listening attentively up to this point, speaks up when Harp says this:
"Orcs are nasty, distrusting creatures with no honor. I fear that his human blood only serves to make our enemy more cunning, not less bloodthirsty. Harp here understands his primal thoughts in a way us elves can't. I agree with his analysis. It seems much too risky to leave the fate of the girl up to the self control of a half-orc who's on a power trip."
Kal, after saying that, goes back to listening until Ran speaks up.
Ran: "I know it is a long shot but I am pretty dexterous and I feel like I could probably get in with Surin leading the way. I believe that I can handle the 1/2 orc, at least long enough to allow Surin to get Rochelle out. I think that Rochelle will be more than willing to go with anyone who offers her freedom from these foul creatures."
Kal responds:
"It is my opinion that we should concentrate on killing their leader, as well as freeing Rochelle. This Half-orc is a menace as long as he is left alive. It would seem a shame to rescues Rochelle only to have this band pillage and rape an entire village in two weeks.
With that being the case, I would volunteer to join you inside the fort. I'm equipped with climbing gear and I could certainly move through their fort undetected. Once we get within the leader's hut, another warrior would be invaluable to you, Ran. I think the two of us could get the jump on the half-orc and slay him before help arrived.
If he proves to be too strong to kill quickly, we occupy him while Salin leads Rochelle to the wall, where the fourth member of our incursion team would be waiting to help get her over the well.
I can rig up a system with ropes that would make our exit much faster than climbing. We would need someone pulling on the other end, but the yet unnamed fourth person could assist Salin and Rochelle, and then Salin and the fourth assist us."
OOC: Mark -- I'm envisioning a simple system with pulleys and a couple of footholds tied in the rope that would allow us to just be lifted over the wall. Weight may be a problem -- if it is, I can rig up a double pulley system. That sound ok?
From: Randy
Subject Planning
"Salix, I think your abilities may be more helpful in creating the diversion. Perhaps you can get some of the opponents entangled near the front of the gate, or if it becomes apparent that we are in trouble, you may be able to get the rest of the party inside the fort."
"I think that Kal will acompany Surin and I into the fort and we will take out the leader while Surin frees Rochelle."
"Harp, will you and Salix plan out a diversion that you think will draw the greatest number of the enemy to the front of the gate? Surin, how much time will we need to get under the building? Harp will need to wait until that time has passed before he can begin his work as we don't want to get spotted by those rushing to the gate."
"If there are no further objections, I think that we will be able to pull this off."
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Ran, I am concerned with dividing our forces. Whether we have the diversion inside the compound or out, I would rather have our group within distance to assist if need. However, I will do as you instruct, though my heart tells me it is not wise.
Harp will then converse with the other party members -
Salix, if we have need to enter the fort, do you have a way for us to get through the gate? Any way to affect the wood of the gate? Is there any other way we can ask/use our natural surroundings to help us?
Fal, do you have any ability to create noises or lights that might confuse those inside into thinking we have a larger group than we do?
Surin, is there anything else you may be able to remember about the entrance to the camp - how is the gate secured - how stout does it look? How open is the terrain in the front of the camp - how close can we get to the gate without easily being seen?
Bel and Cai - can you think of anything extra you can do to help us? Cai, I know that you were able to bring the forest alive previously; that might be a good way to help even the odds should we need to enter the compound. Bel, can you think of any spells you might be able to employ that might help create confusion?
From: Karl
Subject Planning
"Wouldn't it be better to avoid alarming them altogether if at all possible?" Salix asks. "What if we sneak down to an unguarded part of the wall. I'm sure I can warp one of the timbers enough that even Harp could get through, if necessary. Then Surin and I could sneak to the shack. With my God's grace I could open a hole in back wall of Rochelle's cell, warp her cell door so the brute will be delayed if he tries to check on her, then we sneak her out the back. We only need risk arousing the camp if we're discovered. By then, the surprise will add to the confusion and we'd be dealing with a few groggy goblins rather than a whole camp that has been put on alert by a distraction at the gate."
He looks at the group to see what they think
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Harp is much more agreeable with this plan, especially since it allows the group easier access to the camp through the warped (or reshaped) timbers of the back wall.
From: Josh
Subject Planning
"I think killing the half-orc -- and as many goblins as posssible -- should be a priority as well. I know your mission is to save the girl, but I think it is also important to stop this band from causing any more trouble.
Do you think it would be possible to wait until the half orc is sleeping, and then kill him in his sleep while rescuing Rochelle?"
From: Karl
Subject Planning
The problem is that we do not know the half-orc's schedule. That and he is probably on higher alert now that he is expecting trouble, though not from us." Salix thinks for a moment. "Our first priority is to the lady. Until she is safe, nothing else matters. If we can get in and out without arousing anyone, all the better. I do not think it is wise to stir them up more than necessary until the Lady Rochelle is safely away."
"Also, this is a dark and evil land as I'm sure you've witnessed. This band is but a drop in the bucket of dangers here. It is not our place to ease the troubles of this land if it in any way risks our Lady. She is our only priority here," Salix says firmly. Then, as if realizing he has spoken out of turn, he looks somewhat appologetically at Ran.
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
Fal has a Pyrotechnic spell.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
Ran mulls over many options in his head. 'Will there be an unguarded part of the wall? If a battle ensues, how do we secure a safe exit for Lady Rochelle? Will making a hole in the wall make a lot of noise? Am I just being prideful and stubborn trying to stick with my plan?'
Finally he settles on a decision.
"Salix, I feel that your plan has a lot of merit. I have a concern though. Will opening a hole in the wall make much noise?"
If Salix answers that there will be almost no noise then Ran will respond with the following:
"Then we have a plan. You will open a hole in the wall of the fort. I will enter with Surin and Kal and we will make our way to the hut. We will dispose of the 1/2 orc and make our escape back through the hole in the fort. We won't need a hole opened in the wall of the hut as it sounds like we can get in through the floor boards and that will likely draw even less attention. If a commotion rises up while we are in the hut, you will need to move the conflict away from our escape route so that Surin can get Lady Rochelle to safety."
If Salix answers that it will be pretty loud then Ran will say:
"I do appreciate that there may be a way for us to get in and out without being spotted. I propose that we go with the plan as I have outlined, only instead of a diversion we have our feathered companions monitor the situation from above. If they report any problems to you, then you breach the wall and try to draw attention away from us. This way, we only fight if absolutely necessary. Kal, Surin, and I will take out the 1/2 orc on the inside and will try to do so without too much noise while we rescue Lady Rochelle. I think this is our best chance."
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
When the final plan is determined, Harp will remind the Rangers to refill their quivers with some of the arrows they had purchased back in Impact.
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Cai is a little disappointed that the group seems to be deciding on a plan that leaves most of the goblins alive and unharmed, but her head recognizes that it is the best plan.
She asks Surin "How easy was it to get in under the shack and come up through the floorboards? Not having seen it myself, it seems that it would certainly be much faster to have Salix let us in both the palisade and the shack."
She turns to Fal and asks "How long does your sleep spell last? And if you were to put the leader to sleep, would the goblins be able to wake him up?"
Finally she turns to Ran and says "If we are discovered, it occurrs to me that one possible diversion to help us get away is to set fire to various parts of the camp. Goblins are lazy and most likely have not fireproofed their tents. Most of the grass is probably long dead, but if not it will spread quickly, and if so the two of us might be able to light a few tents with burning arrows, though only if we prepare for that possbility beforehand."
ooc If we haven't headed in by tonight, I'll look over my spell list like the others are doing and I may change it.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
Ran listens attentively to Cai and responds, "Going through the floorboards gives us the advantage of not being out in the open at the side of the hut while a spell is cast. Unless Surin thinks otherwise, I prefer to approach it in this manner. I do like the idea of using fire as a diversion though. Please prepare for that possibility."
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
OOC: Mark, does the Pyrotechnic spell have to be aimed at an enemy, or could I shoot it into the air to draw the enemies out of their camp?
From: Jake
Subject planning
A grin breaks out unbidden on Surin's face. He likes this new member of the party. "I reckon there's some truth to what you're saying there, my friend. What do you think of this though--they're expecting people--half orcs, humans, they don't know what, just people--to show up with a pile of gold to trade for the girl. They've got to be a little nervous after Tiny's performance down there," he jerks his thumb toward the goblin camp, "that him as hired them'll be planning to just march in and take Rochelle off their hands, maybe lop off a few heads while he's at it.
Seems to me they'd be mighty relieved to see somebody claimin' to be from the boss ride up with a couple of sacks of gold. Now, we just happen to have more gold than we know what to do with right here, don't we? Might be Ran and a human or two could ride into their camp like they belong there an' bluff their way into a meeting with Tiny. Meanwhile, Kal here and me could sneak our way in and get into position. When we're all four ready, we could take him at once. He'd never know what hit him, and if we could do it quick enough in a spot his goblins couldn't see, it could be that the two'd be able to just ride on out of camp with her. What do you think ofthat?"
From: Jake
Subject Planning
I sent this not realizing that there were lots of email messages more recent than the one I was responding to. Nonetheless, I think the turn still fits.
From: Jake
Subject Planning
OOC: Karl, does Salix have to be able to see or touch the surface that he's warping?
"How easy was it to get in under the shack and come up through the floorboards? Not having seen it myself, it seems that it would certainly be much faster to have Salix let us in both the palisade and the shack."
"Easy enough, for me. You big folk might have a bit more trouble though. Long as you're not wearing a lot of armor I think you could do it though."
Surin starts laughing. "I just had a thought. Salix, could you open up a hole right underneath the half orc's feet? You and I could be under there, and as soon as the hole opened up and he fell through we could start hacking at his legs and feet. Maybe slice right through a couple of essential tendons. That'd surprise him! If you could shape the wood so he was trapped with his feet in the hole so much the better. We could keep sticking him, and he couldn't get at us, at least for a bit. Meanwhile Ran and this new fellow could be up above hacking him to bitty little bits while he was trapped.
From: Jason
Subject Planning
ooc: I was about to update my char sheet to reflect the arrows that you all bought for us before I joined, but I can't seem to find how many arrows you actually bought, much less how many were given to me. I saw mention of buying about 100 arrows, but nothing definite.
Thanks for the help!
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Kal smiles broadly. "I very much like this plan."
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
Fal is also concerned about the two being in the enemy camp alone? Isn't there a way that we could set some kind of trap for them and lure them out of their camp? Fal admits that he doesn't know much about combat strategy, but is still worried about the proposed plan.
From: Karl
Subject Spell list
Speaking of spell lists, I'd like to modify mine. I was going to earlier, but the morning snuck up on me before I could update the sheet on Sakeriver.
From: Karl
Subject Spell list
Cancel that. In re-reading the spell descriptions, I think I'm better off with the line-up I have now.
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Harp will ask Surin to try and draw a diagram of the camp, focusing on how close the camp is to the woods at the rear and the layout of the shack.
After reviewing Surins diagram, Harp will continue discussing with Ran
"Sir, if we can get to the back of the fort, Surin can sneak in as before, and secret himself under the shack. At a given signal or time (Surin can determine which he would rather use), we see if Salix can find a way to affect the wood making up the back of the fort wall - if he can make a hole large enough for me, we can all sneak into the camp, our ranger freinds taking out any goblins sentrys if needed. We make a dash for the shack, three of us on a side. We can have Cai summon a creature such as that wolf she called up recently, or if any of the rest of us can do so, we summon an ally or creature that can wreak havoc in the camp. The noise of the attack should bring that 1/2 orc to the front of the shack.
We come at him from both sides, maybe having Fal grease him. When Surin hears the noise, he comes out from under the shack, pulls off some rear wall boards, grabs Rochelle, and makes his way back to the rear of the camp, out through our hole, and gets Rochelle back to where we have hobbled the horses. Wecan either continue to try to defeat the 1/2 orc, or we can retreat once we have our prize."
Harp will listen to any comments Ran has, and any suggestions any others might have.
From: Jason
Subject Planning
Cai finally speaks up:
"I like the idea in general, but I think there are a couple things we need to address. First, and no offense to Surin, who has already proven himself indispensable, but Rochelle is a human noblewoman. Are we sure that she'll just get up and follow an unknown halfling who crawls into the room through a hole in the floor and tells her she has to exit the same way?
Second, and this isn't necessarily a problem, but you should be aware that when I call a woodland ally to my aid, the reply is very short; something on the order of 10-15 seconds. While its possible that a wolf in the camp might be able to create the stir we're looking for in such a short time, it might not."
ooc: Sorry about the confusion, but do we generally keep the turns going over the weekend as well? I started during last weekend it seems, but this weekend was much quieter and so I didn't post anything. I'll try to post a few more constructive ideas tonight after my exam this evening.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
"I don't like the idea of Surin being alone in the building. If the leader of the fort does not react to the diversion as we plan, his other choice may be to simply kill Rochelle. This is especially true if he believes that the reason for the commotion is that the person who hired him has come to take her without giving the rest of the payment."
Ran pauses for a moment, Harps idea would require a lot more battle and after the beating they took the previous night he is not ready to commit to that if it can be avoided.
"I think that if everyone enters the fort, we will not be able to avoid fighting all of the creatures within it. If my plan works, we will be able to get away with a minimum of conflict. I know it is a long shot but I am pretty dextrous and I feel like I could probably get in with Surin leading the way. I believe that I can handle the 1/2 orc, at least long enough to allow Surin to get Rochelle out. I think that Rochelle will be more than willing to go with anyone who offers her freedom from these foul creatures. If we were well rested, and if it were not for the tragic loss of our brave companion Alatyr, I believe your idea would well suit our task. However, given the circumstances, I would like to avoid a full scale battle here."
At the mention of Alatyr, Rans voice falters slightly and his eyes look downward. He finishes his statement with confidence and then adds, "If there is one other among us who feels they could accompany Surin and I into the fort, I would accept the help." As he says this his eyes turn to Kal, the elf who saved his life.
From: Karl
Subject Planning
"I might be of help inside the fort", Salix says. "If I can get to the shack where Rochelle is being held, I might be able to help get her out. By the grace of Obad-Hai, I have some skill with wood. Perhaps I could make a hole in the back wall to get her out, or warp the door closed to keep the brute out of her room? This ability is limited, but I could probably warp two separate wooden objects and shape a third object once."
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Harp: "I don't like the idea of Surin being alone in the building.
If the leader of the fort does not react to the diversion as we plan, his other choice may be to simply kill Rochelle. This is especially true if he believes that the
reason for the commotion is that the person who hired him has come to take her without giving the rest of the payment."
Kal, who has been listening attentively up to this point, speaks up when Harp says this:
"Orcs are nasty, distrusting creatures with no honor. I fear that his human blood only serves to make our enemy more cunning, not less bloodthirsty. Harp here understands his primal thoughts in a way us elves can't. I agree with his analysis. It seems much too risky to leave the fate of the girl up to the self control of a half-orc who's on a power trip."
Kal, after saying that, goes back to listening until Ran speaks up.
Ran: "I know it is a long shot but I am pretty dexterous and I feel like I could probably get in with Surin leading the way. I believe that I can handle the 1/2 orc, at least long enough to allow Surin to get Rochelle out. I think that Rochelle will be more than willing to go with anyone who offers her freedom from these foul creatures."
Kal responds:
"It is my opinion that we should concentrate on killing their leader, as well as freeing Rochelle. This Half-orc is a menace as long as he is left alive. It would seem a shame to rescues Rochelle only to have this band pillage and rape an entire village in two weeks.
With that being the case, I would volunteer to join you inside the fort. I'm equipped with climbing gear and I could certainly move through their fort undetected. Once we get within the leader's hut, another warrior would be invaluable to you, Ran. I think the two of us could get the jump on the half-orc and slay him before help arrived.
If he proves to be too strong to kill quickly, we occupy him while Salin leads Rochelle to the wall, where the fourth member of our incursion team would be waiting to help get her over the well.
I can rig up a system with ropes that would make our exit much faster than climbing. We would need someone pulling on the other end, but the yet unnamed fourth person could assist Salin and Rochelle, and then Salin and the fourth assist us."
OOC: Mark -- I'm envisioning a simple system with pulleys and a couple of footholds tied in the rope that would allow us to just be lifted over the wall. Weight may be a problem -- if it is, I can rig up a double pulley system. That sound ok?
From: Randy
Subject Planning
"Salix, I think your abilities may be more helpful in creating the diversion. Perhaps you can get some of the opponents entangled near the front of the gate, or if it becomes apparent that we are in trouble, you may be able to get the rest of the party inside the fort."
"I think that Kal will acompany Surin and I into the fort and we will take out the leader while Surin frees Rochelle."
"Harp, will you and Salix plan out a diversion that you think will draw the greatest number of the enemy to the front of the gate? Surin, how much time will we need to get under the building? Harp will need to wait until that time has passed before he can begin his work as we don't want to get spotted by those rushing to the gate."
"If there are no further objections, I think that we will be able to pull this off."
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Ran, I am concerned with dividing our forces. Whether we have the diversion inside the compound or out, I would rather have our group within distance to assist if need. However, I will do as you instruct, though my heart tells me it is not wise.
Harp will then converse with the other party members -
Salix, if we have need to enter the fort, do you have a way for us to get through the gate? Any way to affect the wood of the gate? Is there any other way we can ask/use our natural surroundings to help us?
Fal, do you have any ability to create noises or lights that might confuse those inside into thinking we have a larger group than we do?
Surin, is there anything else you may be able to remember about the entrance to the camp - how is the gate secured - how stout does it look? How open is the terrain in the front of the camp - how close can we get to the gate without easily being seen?
Bel and Cai - can you think of anything extra you can do to help us? Cai, I know that you were able to bring the forest alive previously; that might be a good way to help even the odds should we need to enter the compound. Bel, can you think of any spells you might be able to employ that might help create confusion?
From: Karl
Subject Planning
"Wouldn't it be better to avoid alarming them altogether if at all possible?" Salix asks. "What if we sneak down to an unguarded part of the wall. I'm sure I can warp one of the timbers enough that even Harp could get through, if necessary. Then Surin and I could sneak to the shack. With my God's grace I could open a hole in back wall of Rochelle's cell, warp her cell door so the brute will be delayed if he tries to check on her, then we sneak her out the back. We only need risk arousing the camp if we're discovered. By then, the surprise will add to the confusion and we'd be dealing with a few groggy goblins rather than a whole camp that has been put on alert by a distraction at the gate."
He looks at the group to see what they think
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Harp is much more agreeable with this plan, especially since it allows the group easier access to the camp through the warped (or reshaped) timbers of the back wall.
From: Josh
Subject Planning
"I think killing the half-orc -- and as many goblins as posssible -- should be a priority as well. I know your mission is to save the girl, but I think it is also important to stop this band from causing any more trouble.
Do you think it would be possible to wait until the half orc is sleeping, and then kill him in his sleep while rescuing Rochelle?"
From: Karl
Subject Planning
The problem is that we do not know the half-orc's schedule. That and he is probably on higher alert now that he is expecting trouble, though not from us." Salix thinks for a moment. "Our first priority is to the lady. Until she is safe, nothing else matters. If we can get in and out without arousing anyone, all the better. I do not think it is wise to stir them up more than necessary until the Lady Rochelle is safely away."
"Also, this is a dark and evil land as I'm sure you've witnessed. This band is but a drop in the bucket of dangers here. It is not our place to ease the troubles of this land if it in any way risks our Lady. She is our only priority here," Salix says firmly. Then, as if realizing he has spoken out of turn, he looks somewhat appologetically at Ran.
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
Fal has a Pyrotechnic spell.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
Ran mulls over many options in his head. 'Will there be an unguarded part of the wall? If a battle ensues, how do we secure a safe exit for Lady Rochelle? Will making a hole in the wall make a lot of noise? Am I just being prideful and stubborn trying to stick with my plan?'
Finally he settles on a decision.
"Salix, I feel that your plan has a lot of merit. I have a concern though. Will opening a hole in the wall make much noise?"
If Salix answers that there will be almost no noise then Ran will respond with the following:
"Then we have a plan. You will open a hole in the wall of the fort. I will enter with Surin and Kal and we will make our way to the hut. We will dispose of the 1/2 orc and make our escape back through the hole in the fort. We won't need a hole opened in the wall of the hut as it sounds like we can get in through the floor boards and that will likely draw even less attention. If a commotion rises up while we are in the hut, you will need to move the conflict away from our escape route so that Surin can get Lady Rochelle to safety."
If Salix answers that it will be pretty loud then Ran will say:
"I do appreciate that there may be a way for us to get in and out without being spotted. I propose that we go with the plan as I have outlined, only instead of a diversion we have our feathered companions monitor the situation from above. If they report any problems to you, then you breach the wall and try to draw attention away from us. This way, we only fight if absolutely necessary. Kal, Surin, and I will take out the 1/2 orc on the inside and will try to do so without too much noise while we rescue Lady Rochelle. I think this is our best chance."
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
When the final plan is determined, Harp will remind the Rangers to refill their quivers with some of the arrows they had purchased back in Impact.
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Cai is a little disappointed that the group seems to be deciding on a plan that leaves most of the goblins alive and unharmed, but her head recognizes that it is the best plan.
She asks Surin "How easy was it to get in under the shack and come up through the floorboards? Not having seen it myself, it seems that it would certainly be much faster to have Salix let us in both the palisade and the shack."
She turns to Fal and asks "How long does your sleep spell last? And if you were to put the leader to sleep, would the goblins be able to wake him up?"
Finally she turns to Ran and says "If we are discovered, it occurrs to me that one possible diversion to help us get away is to set fire to various parts of the camp. Goblins are lazy and most likely have not fireproofed their tents. Most of the grass is probably long dead, but if not it will spread quickly, and if so the two of us might be able to light a few tents with burning arrows, though only if we prepare for that possbility beforehand."
ooc If we haven't headed in by tonight, I'll look over my spell list like the others are doing and I may change it.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
Ran listens attentively to Cai and responds, "Going through the floorboards gives us the advantage of not being out in the open at the side of the hut while a spell is cast. Unless Surin thinks otherwise, I prefer to approach it in this manner. I do like the idea of using fire as a diversion though. Please prepare for that possibility."
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
OOC: Mark, does the Pyrotechnic spell have to be aimed at an enemy, or could I shoot it into the air to draw the enemies out of their camp?
From: Jake
Subject planning
A grin breaks out unbidden on Surin's face. He likes this new member of the party. "I reckon there's some truth to what you're saying there, my friend. What do you think of this though--they're expecting people--half orcs, humans, they don't know what, just people--to show up with a pile of gold to trade for the girl. They've got to be a little nervous after Tiny's performance down there," he jerks his thumb toward the goblin camp, "that him as hired them'll be planning to just march in and take Rochelle off their hands, maybe lop off a few heads while he's at it.
Seems to me they'd be mighty relieved to see somebody claimin' to be from the boss ride up with a couple of sacks of gold. Now, we just happen to have more gold than we know what to do with right here, don't we? Might be Ran and a human or two could ride into their camp like they belong there an' bluff their way into a meeting with Tiny. Meanwhile, Kal here and me could sneak our way in and get into position. When we're all four ready, we could take him at once. He'd never know what hit him, and if we could do it quick enough in a spot his goblins couldn't see, it could be that the two'd be able to just ride on out of camp with her. What do you think ofthat?"
From: Jake
Subject Planning
I sent this not realizing that there were lots of email messages more recent than the one I was responding to. Nonetheless, I think the turn still fits.
From: Jake
Subject Planning
OOC: Karl, does Salix have to be able to see or touch the surface that he's warping?
"How easy was it to get in under the shack and come up through the floorboards? Not having seen it myself, it seems that it would certainly be much faster to have Salix let us in both the palisade and the shack."
"Easy enough, for me. You big folk might have a bit more trouble though. Long as you're not wearing a lot of armor I think you could do it though."
Surin starts laughing. "I just had a thought. Salix, could you open up a hole right underneath the half orc's feet? You and I could be under there, and as soon as the hole opened up and he fell through we could start hacking at his legs and feet. Maybe slice right through a couple of essential tendons. That'd surprise him! If you could shape the wood so he was trapped with his feet in the hole so much the better. We could keep sticking him, and he couldn't get at us, at least for a bit. Meanwhile Ran and this new fellow could be up above hacking him to bitty little bits while he was trapped.
From: Jason
Subject Planning
ooc: I was about to update my char sheet to reflect the arrows that you all bought for us before I joined, but I can't seem to find how many arrows you actually bought, much less how many were given to me. I saw mention of buying about 100 arrows, but nothing definite.
Thanks for the help!
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Kal smiles broadly. "I very much like this plan."
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
Fal is also concerned about the two being in the enemy camp alone? Isn't there a way that we could set some kind of trap for them and lure them out of their camp? Fal admits that he doesn't know much about combat strategy, but is still worried about the proposed plan.
From: Karl
Subject Spell list
Speaking of spell lists, I'd like to modify mine. I was going to earlier, but the morning snuck up on me before I could update the sheet on Sakeriver.
From: Karl
Subject Spell list
Cancel that. In re-reading the spell descriptions, I think I'm better off with the line-up I have now.
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Harp will ask Surin to try and draw a diagram of the camp, focusing on how close the camp is to the woods at the rear and the layout of the shack.
After reviewing Surins diagram, Harp will continue discussing with Ran
"Sir, if we can get to the back of the fort, Surin can sneak in as before, and secret himself under the shack. At a given signal or time (Surin can determine which he would rather use), we see if Salix can find a way to affect the wood making up the back of the fort wall - if he can make a hole large enough for me, we can all sneak into the camp, our ranger freinds taking out any goblins sentrys if needed. We make a dash for the shack, three of us on a side. We can have Cai summon a creature such as that wolf she called up recently, or if any of the rest of us can do so, we summon an ally or creature that can wreak havoc in the camp. The noise of the attack should bring that 1/2 orc to the front of the shack.
We come at him from both sides, maybe having Fal grease him. When Surin hears the noise, he comes out from under the shack, pulls off some rear wall boards, grabs Rochelle, and makes his way back to the rear of the camp, out through our hole, and gets Rochelle back to where we have hobbled the horses. Wecan either continue to try to defeat the 1/2 orc, or we can retreat once we have our prize."
Harp will listen to any comments Ran has, and any suggestions any others might have.
From: Jason
Subject Planning
Cai finally speaks up:
"I like the idea in general, but I think there are a couple things we need to address. First, and no offense to Surin, who has already proven himself indispensable, but Rochelle is a human noblewoman. Are we sure that she'll just get up and follow an unknown halfling who crawls into the room through a hole in the floor and tells her she has to exit the same way?
Second, and this isn't necessarily a problem, but you should be aware that when I call a woodland ally to my aid, the reply is very short; something on the order of 10-15 seconds. While its possible that a wolf in the camp might be able to create the stir we're looking for in such a short time, it might not."
ooc: Sorry about the confusion, but do we generally keep the turns going over the weekend as well? I started during last weekend it seems, but this weekend was much quieter and so I didn't post anything. I'll try to post a few more constructive ideas tonight after my exam this evening.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
"I don't like the idea of Surin being alone in the building. If the leader of the fort does not react to the diversion as we plan, his other choice may be to simply kill Rochelle. This is especially true if he believes that the reason for the commotion is that the person who hired him has come to take her without giving the rest of the payment."
Ran pauses for a moment, Harps idea would require a lot more battle and after the beating they took the previous night he is not ready to commit to that if it can be avoided.
"I think that if everyone enters the fort, we will not be able to avoid fighting all of the creatures within it. If my plan works, we will be able to get away with a minimum of conflict. I know it is a long shot but I am pretty dextrous and I feel like I could probably get in with Surin leading the way. I believe that I can handle the 1/2 orc, at least long enough to allow Surin to get Rochelle out. I think that Rochelle will be more than willing to go with anyone who offers her freedom from these foul creatures. If we were well rested, and if it were not for the tragic loss of our brave companion Alatyr, I believe your idea would well suit our task. However, given the circumstances, I would like to avoid a full scale battle here."
At the mention of Alatyr, Rans voice falters slightly and his eyes look downward. He finishes his statement with confidence and then adds, "If there is one other among us who feels they could accompany Surin and I into the fort, I would accept the help." As he says this his eyes turn to Kal, the elf who saved his life.
From: Karl
Subject Planning
"I might be of help inside the fort", Salix says. "If I can get to the shack where Rochelle is being held, I might be able to help get her out. By the grace of Obad-Hai, I have some skill with wood. Perhaps I could make a hole in the back wall to get her out, or warp the door closed to keep the brute out of her room? This ability is limited, but I could probably warp two separate wooden objects and shape a third object once."
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Harp: "I don't like the idea of Surin being alone in the building.
If the leader of the fort does not react to the diversion as we plan, his other choice may be to simply kill Rochelle. This is especially true if he believes that the
reason for the commotion is that the person who hired him has come to take her without giving the rest of the payment."
Kal, who has been listening attentively up to this point, speaks up when Harp says this:
"Orcs are nasty, distrusting creatures with no honor. I fear that his human blood only serves to make our enemy more cunning, not less bloodthirsty. Harp here understands his primal thoughts in a way us elves can't. I agree with his analysis. It seems much too risky to leave the fate of the girl up to the self control of a half-orc who's on a power trip."
Kal, after saying that, goes back to listening until Ran speaks up.
Ran: "I know it is a long shot but I am pretty dexterous and I feel like I could probably get in with Surin leading the way. I believe that I can handle the 1/2 orc, at least long enough to allow Surin to get Rochelle out. I think that Rochelle will be more than willing to go with anyone who offers her freedom from these foul creatures."
Kal responds:
"It is my opinion that we should concentrate on killing their leader, as well as freeing Rochelle. This Half-orc is a menace as long as he is left alive. It would seem a shame to rescues Rochelle only to have this band pillage and rape an entire village in two weeks.
With that being the case, I would volunteer to join you inside the fort. I'm equipped with climbing gear and I could certainly move through their fort undetected. Once we get within the leader's hut, another warrior would be invaluable to you, Ran. I think the two of us could get the jump on the half-orc and slay him before help arrived.
If he proves to be too strong to kill quickly, we occupy him while Salin leads Rochelle to the wall, where the fourth member of our incursion team would be waiting to help get her over the well.
I can rig up a system with ropes that would make our exit much faster than climbing. We would need someone pulling on the other end, but the yet unnamed fourth person could assist Salin and Rochelle, and then Salin and the fourth assist us."
OOC: Mark -- I'm envisioning a simple system with pulleys and a couple of footholds tied in the rope that would allow us to just be lifted over the wall. Weight may be a problem -- if it is, I can rig up a double pulley system. That sound ok?
From: Randy
Subject Planning
"Salix, I think your abilities may be more helpful in creating the diversion. Perhaps you can get some of the opponents entangled near the front of the gate, or if it becomes apparent that we are in trouble, you may be able to get the rest of the party inside the fort."
"I think that Kal will acompany Surin and I into the fort and we will take out the leader while Surin frees Rochelle."
"Harp, will you and Salix plan out a diversion that you think will draw the greatest number of the enemy to the front of the gate? Surin, how much time will we need to get under the building? Harp will need to wait until that time has passed before he can begin his work as we don't want to get spotted by those rushing to the gate."
"If there are no further objections, I think that we will be able to pull this off."
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Ran, I am concerned with dividing our forces. Whether we have the diversion inside the compound or out, I would rather have our group within distance to assist if need. However, I will do as you instruct, though my heart tells me it is not wise.
Harp will then converse with the other party members -
Salix, if we have need to enter the fort, do you have a way for us to get through the gate? Any way to affect the wood of the gate? Is there any other way we can ask/use our natural surroundings to help us?
Fal, do you have any ability to create noises or lights that might confuse those inside into thinking we have a larger group than we do?
Surin, is there anything else you may be able to remember about the entrance to the camp - how is the gate secured - how stout does it look? How open is the terrain in the front of the camp - how close can we get to the gate without easily being seen?
Bel and Cai - can you think of anything extra you can do to help us? Cai, I know that you were able to bring the forest alive previously; that might be a good way to help even the odds should we need to enter the compound. Bel, can you think of any spells you might be able to employ that might help create confusion?
From: Karl
Subject Planning
"Wouldn't it be better to avoid alarming them altogether if at all possible?" Salix asks. "What if we sneak down to an unguarded part of the wall. I'm sure I can warp one of the timbers enough that even Harp could get through, if necessary. Then Surin and I could sneak to the shack. With my God's grace I could open a hole in back wall of Rochelle's cell, warp her cell door so the brute will be delayed if he tries to check on her, then we sneak her out the back. We only need risk arousing the camp if we're discovered. By then, the surprise will add to the confusion and we'd be dealing with a few groggy goblins rather than a whole camp that has been put on alert by a distraction at the gate."
He looks at the group to see what they think
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
Harp is much more agreeable with this plan, especially since it allows the group easier access to the camp through the warped (or reshaped) timbers of the back wall.
From: Josh
Subject Planning
"I think killing the half-orc -- and as many goblins as posssible -- should be a priority as well. I know your mission is to save the girl, but I think it is also important to stop this band from causing any more trouble.
Do you think it would be possible to wait until the half orc is sleeping, and then kill him in his sleep while rescuing Rochelle?"
From: Karl
Subject Planning
The problem is that we do not know the half-orc's schedule. That and he is probably on higher alert now that he is expecting trouble, though not from us." Salix thinks for a moment. "Our first priority is to the lady. Until she is safe, nothing else matters. If we can get in and out without arousing anyone, all the better. I do not think it is wise to stir them up more than necessary until the Lady Rochelle is safely away."
"Also, this is a dark and evil land as I'm sure you've witnessed. This band is but a drop in the bucket of dangers here. It is not our place to ease the troubles of this land if it in any way risks our Lady. She is our only priority here," Salix says firmly. Then, as if realizing he has spoken out of turn, he looks somewhat appologetically at Ran.
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
Fal has a Pyrotechnic spell.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
Ran mulls over many options in his head. 'Will there be an unguarded part of the wall? If a battle ensues, how do we secure a safe exit for Lady Rochelle? Will making a hole in the wall make a lot of noise? Am I just being prideful and stubborn trying to stick with my plan?'
Finally he settles on a decision.
"Salix, I feel that your plan has a lot of merit. I have a concern though. Will opening a hole in the wall make much noise?"
If Salix answers that there will be almost no noise then Ran will respond with the following:
"Then we have a plan. You will open a hole in the wall of the fort. I will enter with Surin and Kal and we will make our way to the hut. We will dispose of the 1/2 orc and make our escape back through the hole in the fort. We won't need a hole opened in the wall of the hut as it sounds like we can get in through the floor boards and that will likely draw even less attention. If a commotion rises up while we are in the hut, you will need to move the conflict away from our escape route so that Surin can get Lady Rochelle to safety."
If Salix answers that it will be pretty loud then Ran will say:
"I do appreciate that there may be a way for us to get in and out without being spotted. I propose that we go with the plan as I have outlined, only instead of a diversion we have our feathered companions monitor the situation from above. If they report any problems to you, then you breach the wall and try to draw attention away from us. This way, we only fight if absolutely necessary. Kal, Surin, and I will take out the 1/2 orc on the inside and will try to do so without too much noise while we rescue Lady Rochelle. I think this is our best chance."
From: Kevin
Subject Planning
When the final plan is determined, Harp will remind the Rangers to refill their quivers with some of the arrows they had purchased back in Impact.
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Cai is a little disappointed that the group seems to be deciding on a plan that leaves most of the goblins alive and unharmed, but her head recognizes that it is the best plan.
She asks Surin "How easy was it to get in under the shack and come up through the floorboards? Not having seen it myself, it seems that it would certainly be much faster to have Salix let us in both the palisade and the shack."
She turns to Fal and asks "How long does your sleep spell last? And if you were to put the leader to sleep, would the goblins be able to wake him up?"
Finally she turns to Ran and says "If we are discovered, it occurrs to me that one possible diversion to help us get away is to set fire to various parts of the camp. Goblins are lazy and most likely have not fireproofed their tents. Most of the grass is probably long dead, but if not it will spread quickly, and if so the two of us might be able to light a few tents with burning arrows, though only if we prepare for that possbility beforehand."
ooc If we haven't headed in by tonight, I'll look over my spell list like the others are doing and I may change it.
From: Randy
Subject Planning
Ran listens attentively to Cai and responds, "Going through the floorboards gives us the advantage of not being out in the open at the side of the hut while a spell is cast. Unless Surin thinks otherwise, I prefer to approach it in this manner. I do like the idea of using fire as a diversion though. Please prepare for that possibility."
From: Derrell
Subject Planning
OOC: Mark, does the Pyrotechnic spell have to be aimed at an enemy, or could I shoot it into the air to draw the enemies out of their camp?
From: Jake
Subject planning
A grin breaks out unbidden on Surin's face. He likes this new member of the party. "I reckon there's some truth to what you're saying there, my friend. What do you think of this though--they're expecting people--half orcs, humans, they don't know what, just people--to show up with a pile of gold to trade for the girl. They've got to be a little nervous after Tiny's performance down there," he jerks his thumb toward the goblin camp, "that him as hired them'll be planning to just march in and take Rochelle off their hands, maybe lop off a few heads while he's at it.
Seems to me they'd be mighty relieved to see somebody claimin' to be from the boss ride up with a couple of sacks of gold. Now, we just happen to have more gold than we know what to do with right here, don't we? Might be Ran and a human or two could ride into their camp like they belong there an' bluff their way into a meeting with Tiny. Meanwhile, Kal here and me could sneak our way in and get into position. When we're all four ready, we could take him at once. He'd never know what hit him, and if we could do it quick enough in a spot his goblins couldn't see, it could be that the two'd be able to just ride on out of camp with her. What do you think ofthat?"
From: Jake
Subject Planning
I sent this not realizing that there were lots of email messages more recent than the one I was responding to. Nonetheless, I think the turn still fits.
From: Jake
Subject Planning
OOC: Karl, does Salix have to be able to see or touch the surface that he's warping?
"How easy was it to get in under the shack and come up through the floorboards? Not having seen it myself, it seems that it would certainly be much faster to have Salix let us in both the palisade and the shack."
"Easy enough, for me. You big folk might have a bit more trouble though. Long as you're not wearing a lot of armor I think you could do it though."
Surin starts laughing. "I just had a thought. Salix, could you open up a hole right underneath the half orc's feet? You and I could be under there, and as soon as the hole opened up and he fell through we could start hacking at his legs and feet. Maybe slice right through a couple of essential tendons. That'd surprise him! If you could shape the wood so he was trapped with his feet in the hole so much the better. We could keep sticking him, and he couldn't get at us, at least for a bit. Meanwhile Ran and this new fellow could be up above hacking him to bitty little bits while he was trapped.
From: Jason
Subject Planning
ooc: I was about to update my char sheet to reflect the arrows that you all bought for us before I joined, but I can't seem to find how many arrows you actually bought, much less how many were given to me. I saw mention of buying about 100 arrows, but nothing definite.
Thanks for the help!
From: Josh
Subject Planning
Kal smiles broadly. "I very much like this plan."