Garyth Delivers the News, Pensive Prepares for Ambush
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
The relief in the young guardsman's eyes--his name is Teo, Garyth remembers--is obvious. Just a few hours ago, Garyth had the same faith in Nesalin's armies. Now, though, it seems naive.
As soon as the party is through the gates, Garyth dismounts. He notices Pensive break from the group, but there isn't time to deal with that now. "Close the gates," he calls, then turns to his men. "Vincy, you and the men get up on the wall. If you see anything, come running. Osred, you're with me." He turns back to Teo. "I wish I had good tidings, Teo, gods know we could use them. We've little time to spare. My companions and I," he indicates the halflings, "must speak with Captain Bragga and the Alderman immediately."
OOC: Sorry about that, Ty. Been swamped at work lately.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Teo leads the small group through the center of town to the meeting hall. Crowds of townsfolk gather about, clinging to the clothes of the passing men and asking when the army will arrive to save them. Garyth finds that he can not answer. Something is blocking his throat. Familiar faces pass by, but all he can do is nod to them and move past. Osred moves to the front with the guardsman, and uses his large bulk and ferocious appearance to clear a path.
Inside the town hall, all the city elders and men of rank are gathered. Bragga is wearing his best armor, but his face is weary. Around him, men who will not have to fight are planning the defense of the city. He perks up when Garyth and Osred enter, and moves quickly to grip the arm of his former lieutenant. He smiles when he sees the new rank insignia on Garyth's armor. "This last fortnight has been good for you I see, captain. I hope the next treats you as well. You'll be wanting to take over this meeting then." Garyth blushes uncomfortably, "No, Sir. This is still your city to defend. I only come to offer what help I can."
Something in Garyth's eyes when he says this makes Bragga frown. "They aren't coming, are they? Damn them! They would rather sit in their city behind high walls and watch us burn?" The rest of the room grows silent. They are waiting an answer.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
The cliff drops below him to the rush and roar of the waves. Pensive stands on the edge of the cliff, desperately searching its face.
Nothing. No smuggler's path, no winding trail down. . . nothing but the face of the cliff. Only the able-bodied men in Overlook would be able to drop below.
Pensive swallows, and feels a sick trembling in his gut.
Well. He could spend no more time on despair. Pensive watches carefully as he hustles back through Overlook. No elves, that he could see. He asks a leatherworker if any lived here, but gets only a shrug and a brief reply about an elven spice merchant that hasn't been seen in a while. Pensive thanks him, and heads back to the gate.
Garyth, the halflings, and the cleric are not on the walls-- presumably they went to speak with the town's leadership. Pensive pauses a moment among the people milling around. Milling around like. . .
Sheep waiting for the slaughter.
A bit of grit blows into his eyes at the thought. Wind from the center of the island.
Pensive asks where he can find the Alderman, but finds himself strangely. . . reluctant to join Garyth and the other leaders within. Instead, he walks the walls with the soldiers, quietly keeping watch for the army of undead.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
As Pensive walks the broad main street back to the palisade, he is accosted by a large red faced man. The monk tries to move around him, but the man sidesteps to stay in his way. Pensive frowns at the mass of contradictory feelings that emanate from the man in waves. "Can I help you?"
The man fidgets, as though looking for the right words. "You came in with young Garyth, right? You are one of his men?"
Pensive nods, "I travel with Garyth."
"I've got something I need to give to him, can I give it to you?"
"I suppose-" pensive begins, but as soon as he has spoken the man turns and hurries off toward one of the dense clusters of shops and houses nearby. "It's over here! It will just take a second. Come this way." He calls over his shoulder.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Pensive draws the stonesash from out of his sleeves, and lets it dangle in a loop from his hands.
He follows the fellow into the crowd of shops.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Pensive follows the man, the barest hint of a puzzled look on his face. The man dodges into a narrow alley between two shops. Pensive moves into it slowly, beginning to become suspicious. The stonesash in his hand is a comforting weight.
The man moves quickly to the end of the alley, and goes through a door there. It looks like the back door of a house. Pensive moves cautiously up to it and looks inside. The red faced man is inside a large kitchen area rummaging in a wooden chest. "It's right here."
Pensive remains outside the door, unwilling to follow the man inside. Something crawls up the fine hairs on the back of his neck.
The man turns around, and gestures him inside, "Please, come in. It's right here."
Pensive shakes his head. "No, I can wait here."
The man gets a desperate look on his face, and Pensive feels a wash of fear from him. "Please, you must come in. Please." Pensive can sense that the man believes something terrible will happen if he doesn't. The man glances to one side, down a hallway Pensive can't see.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
"They were coming, sir," Garyth says. "Nearly two hundred cavalry, archers, pikemen, and Blood Falcons marched from Nesalin this morning. They met the enemy about fifteen miles outside of town. They would have taken the field, but..." He falters for a moment, remembering the tentacled horror that drove off the Nesalin forces. "The enemy summoned... some sort of demon. The soldiers fled before it." He shudders at the memory, then regains his composure and looks up at Captain Bragga. "The undead army is only a few hours behind us, and Overlook has no hope of standing against it, demon or no. We've no choice but to evacuate." He indicates Melani. "This is Reth'tenn Melani, of the Kalama tribe. She has offered her tribe's protection if we can make it to their lands."
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Garyth's words set off a wave of loud argument and shouts. It sounds like some of the town elders had already been arguing for abandoning the city, while others reject the idea of leaving Overlook undefended. Garyth despairs, because he knows how these things go. These men will argue away all of the time left to the town, refusing to make a decision until the army of Kor Garesh begins battering the walls.
Bragga turns away from them in disgust. "Garyth, how long would the city last if we tried to hold it?" Garyth shakes his head. "Not an hour. They have halfling archers, human mercenaries, hordes of difficult to kill undead to use as shock troops, and worst of all they have magic. A witch travels with them. Her powers alone could break holes in our defenses." The room has slowly grown quiet as Garyth lists out the force that comes to destroy them. He sees his opportunity to speak loudly to the group. "Anyone who stays in this city will die. And if we intend to reach the Kalama lands ahead of that army, we must leave now, or be cut to pieces on the road."
Someone in the back says, "But we would have to make preparations, gather supplies?"
"No." says Osred. His voice filled with flat finality. "If we are not on the road in less than an hour, we might as well not leave."
For the first time, the Alderman speaks up. "Then, Captain. Tell us what we must do."
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
So. The man was afraid of something. That could mean he was coerced to set up this trap. Possibly.
Pensive quickly rules out banditry and base thuggery-- any fool thief could quickly see that Pensive carried nothing but the clothes on his back and his traveling satchel.
Kor Garesh's forces, then? Why arrange a trap when the army lay so close by? Pensive recalls the mutilated body of the priest-- Cadfael, was it? What purpose had that served?
And here, was he about to follow the god-botherer's footsteps?
He catches his breath as he steps into the room. Perhaps there was an enemy here, and perhaps not. Perhaps he would die, or perhaps he would find some key, some hope to the survival of the people on this island.
For that hope then. Blood and stone, but it felt good to have a purpose.
Pensive says quietly to the man, "I am here. Whatever is waiting in that hallway-- tell it to come and meet me. Friend," and his voice is sincere and young as he lays a light, freckled hand on the man's arm, "whatever they threatened you with, be at peace. The Path bends as it will, and today it has brought me here. Not you-- the Path. If you can leave and keep yourself and what you cherish safe, do so. I will meet what you brought me here to meet."
He lets the stonesash uncurl, and prepares to defend himself.
Garyth Makes the Call, A Case of Mistaken Identity
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
The breath catches in Garyth's throat. There is little hope that a thousand civilians could be mobilized in less than an hour. But that was what time they had, and there was a chance that some people could be saved.
"Send runners through the town now and tell the people to gather at the gates. Tell them to bring only what food, weapons, and warm clothing that they have at hand and can easily carry, and mounts if they have them." They wouldn't like that, and many would resist or try to delay, but there was no time for more. "Send another detachment to the barracks and have them gather as many supplies as they can in half an hour. We march in one hour; anyone not at the gates by then will be left behind." Saying those last words nearly breaks Garyth's heart. There will be stragglers--the elderly, the sick, the young, or just people who want to try to bring one more piece of home with them. Some people won't make it in time. These are his neighbors, his friends, his family. But there is no other way.
From: Mark
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Melani watches Garyth issue commands, and knows how hard it must be for the guardsman. It seems that he is made of fairly stern stuff. Of course these humans were too soft to begin with. This was why you did not build towns like this. These people were too attached to one place, unable to pick up and move when need required it. However, Melani knew that this was not the time or the place for comments like this. The home most of these people ever knew was about to be destroyed. Maybe worse would happen to the people here. While Garyth is talking to the elders, Melani will go to Rennik and ask" Should we go out and start checking the path to the forest? Try and find the fastest route for this many people? Make sure that the enemy has not sent out riders and scout? We are of almost no use here, but we can make our own preperations for the journey."
Mark
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
If Pensive were in the room, he'd point out the need for a distraction or slowing force to occupy the enemy's mind.
That way, the 1000+ people might have a chance to get away. . .
Maybe someone else will think of it. . .
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Of course, Farron would think of it, if he were there.
(As it is, he's just wondering what the hell is taking you guys so long to get back, and assuming you're all dead now anyway).
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
The man seems shocked at these words. Pensive can feel a rush of both confusion and appreciation. "The Garret farm. Tell your friends, please, my family is at the Garret-"
"That's enough out of you," says a voice from the hall.
Two men in dark leather step out from the hall, holding weapons. One of them gestures to the red faced man to get out of the way. The other takes one look at Pensive, then spins to face the farmer. "This is not the right man. I told you to get the monk who travels with Garyth. Not some elf whelp."
The farmer squeaks, "He said he traveled with Garyth. None other had the look of a monk."
The angry man turns back to Pensive. "Where is the other monk? Where is the baby?"
His partner moves up behind the farmer in one fluid motion, pressing a long knife to the man's throat.
"Speak, or this man and his family die. You will quickly follow."
Pensive wonders, was Cadfael given a similar choice?
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Pensive says quietly, "The child and his father were in Nesalin. I saw them last both last night, though I do not know where they are now."
The truth, as plain as it can be. "Let the farmer go, please."
OOC:
If the men are close enough, and they attack the farmer, Pensive will Tumble forward, attack the closest with spring attack, and then tumble out of the house. If they do not attack the farmer, but advance on Pensive, Pensive will try to draw them out into the alley.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
The man winks at Pensive.
"We don't need the farmer anymore, my brother."
Behind him, his partner gets an ugly grin, and staring Pensive in the eyes, kisses the red faced farmer on his cheek while slitting his throat.
[do you still want to tumble and attack?]
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
OOC: Oh, look, it's Cale and. . . Squirt? Squint?
What's the little one's name?
Garrett farm. He'd remember that. Pensive watches as the farmer drops heavily to the floor.
"That was foolish," he says softly.
OOC2: If the two men are close enough, Pensive will attack the closest with the stonesash as a reach weapon, then Tumble out of the house. Am I right in thinking that if they follow and threaten Pensive, he gets another attack on them both due to the Combat Reflexes feat?
If they are too close for the reach weapon to be effective, or if they get the jump on him and attack, Pensive will Tumble out of the house to the cover of the alley. The idea here is to tumble far enough away from the door of the house so that he gets an AoO when they exit.
I doubt it will matter this round, but Pensive would like to leave one of these two alive, if possible.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
OOC: Sure. I wanted to kill them. But nooooo...
silly lawful alignments...
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
:)
OOC Discussion: Delaying Action
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
OOC: Overlook has, what, about 50 guardsmen? And the opposing force is 300+, mostly undead, less any losses from the clash with the Nesalin Army. At least some of the guardsmen will be needed to shepherd the civilians, which cuts the guard force down to more like 20 if we stretch the guards very thin among the civilians. We could probably get some civilian militia going, but there isn't much time for that, so realistically we're talking about attacking a force of 250 to 300 undead and mercenaries with maybe 30 or 40 soldiers, some of which would be untrained, and no magic-users or artillery. It's quite possible that the entire force would be wiped out. Now, this is just the type of thing that Garyth would want to be in charge of, but at this point he's also questioning his motivations--is this to atone for his failures, or maybe just for the glory, or would it actually accomplish something good?
Even with superior knowledge of the terrain allowing for an ambush, the fact that two thirds of the attacking force is more or less arrow-proof makes it an unlikely gambit. Add in that they have a flying witch and the situation looks even worse. We do have the firebombs (I think), but I don't think we have any way of throwing them any great distance. I'm not convinced that a delaying or diversionary action would help.
From: Mark
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Of course depending on the type of undead we do have Osred who should be able to make a few big holes in the undead army. He does have improved turning and extra turning.
Mark
From: Celia
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
So I can turn 9 times a day at a level higher than I am. Does that 5 ranks in knowledge mean +2 on turning checks?
Hmm. I'd really prefer to not hand Jake back a corpse.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Osred would very probably be able to get one turning off before the murrkat archers turned him into a pincushion.
Getting into turning range = getting into arrow range.
From: Celia
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Hence the not wanting to become a corpse part.
I have to agree with Mike's assesment of the whole distraction idea. We need to get as many people on the road as fast as we can. Is the plan that everyone leaves in an hour or that the local militia and our group leave in an hour so that anyone not gone by then doesn't have us between them and the invading army? Are there really no other magic users in town?
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
This is a small town. Farron was the only magic user who had a residence here.
Osred Starts Organizing
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
The discussion thus far has left me more or less convinced that a delaying action would be disastrous. I think our best bet is to get on the road as quickly as possible and hope for the best. Garyth will want his group in the vanguard to try to clear the path of any small groups of undesirables and/or steer the herd around any large groups. We'd also want a good-sized rear guard, but I don't think splitting the party is a good idea. Anyway, unless someone can convince me otherwise, this is what Garyth will be doing.
From: Mark
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
OOC: Unless, of course we are supposed to go to Garrets farm and save that guys family. :)
Mark
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Garyth doesn't know about that yet. Speaking of which, I wonder if Garyth's own family made it into town before they closed the gates.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Ty, I got your IM with concerns about spring attack and Tumble-- sorry I haven't been able to reply.
Whatever you decide (as far as rules) is fine with me-- if you decide that Tumble and spring attack cannot be used together, and Pensive cannot use his reach attack and then move, he will try to lead the men out to the alleyway (using tumble). If the men instead run, Pensive will attack them, focusing on the closest one to him first.
From: Celia
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
"We should begin organizing now so we are on the road when this hour is up."
Osred will head to wherever we're leaving from and start organizing as people start arriving. He'll also try to talk anyone out of carrying anything that looks unnecessarily heavy as we can't afford to slow down.
Raja Back in Action
Subject: I'm back.
I'm ready to resume, Ty, whenever you'd like to write up what the Sunmaster thinks of our discoveries. :)
Raja
Pensive vs. the Brothers, A Touching Family Moment
Subject: Re: I'm back.
In honor of Raja returning, I will get off my fat ass and do some turns today.
From: Mark
Subject: Re: I'm back.
All work and no play makes for a fat lizard. :)
Mark
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Pensive says, "That was foolish," and feels the tattoo on the back of his neck begin to burn with power. As always, the heat flows down his arm and into the stonesash clutched there, making the cord and extension of his own body. But even as this happens, his two opponents are shifting into combat stances, weapons ready.
[Initiative rolls Pensive 10, Cale 16, Spurt 13]
Before Pensive can snap the stonesash up and into position, the talkative rogue is already lunging across the five or so feet between them, his long knife slashing at the monk's throat [Attack 24, hit; Damage 4]. Pensive is able to turn the blade with the flat of his left hand, but earns himself a painful cut on the palm.
His silent partner runs past Pensive to block the doorway [Tumble attempt to pass through occupied square without AOO; roll 24 vs DC 25, failed]. The small man is extremely quick, and almost rolls right past Pensive faster than the monk can react. But Pensive is quick as well, and is able to snap one end of the stonesash down as he passes [AOO natural 1, miss]. Unfortunately, the cord strikes only the floor behind his opponents back, and then the grinning murderer is in place between Pensive and the door.
[pausing here so that Scott can change plans based on what happened.]
From: Ty
Subject: Evacuating the city
Garyth has finished speaking, and the assembly breaks up to lead the evacuation. Osred rumbles off, saying to Garyth, "I will take charge of the men at the gate." Captain Bragga begins shouting orders at the guardsmen nearby, and within moments they are running through the streets telling the citizens to gather at the gates.
Melani speaks quietly to Rennik in Halfling, and he nods. "Garyth, we will go back outside the gates and scout for the army's van, or any other threats." Garyth thanks him and sends the halflings off.
He moves out to the town square, and all around he can feel the rising panic as people become aware of the threat moving toward them. We will save some, at least, he thinks. We will lose the weak, the old, the very ill. We will lose the greedy, who can't stand to leave their possessions behind. We will lose the foolishly brave, who will think it's better to stay and fight. But we will save some. Then a thought returns to him. Where was his family?
"You, guardsman." He shouts at a passing soldier. "The Tel'Ardan's, are they here in town?" The soldier nods, "Yes, captain. They're staying Humbolt's Inn, last I knew." Garyth thanks him and lets him return to his duties. He then runs as fast as his legs will carry him to the Inn. He can at least see that his family is saved.
He pushes his way through a gather crowd in front of the inn, a guardsman shouting into the inn to bring out all able bodied men and whatever food stuffs can be carried. Garyth is not surprised to see his oldest brother coming out of the inn, a giant sack of flour over each muscular farmer's shoulder. Giles was always the first to action when something needed done. "Giles!" His brother gives him a nod and a grin, then says to the guardsman, "The others are bringing the rest out through the cellar door. Bring the wagon 'round back, and they'll load it." He then dumps his flour onto the waiting wagon as it pulls away, and grabs his brother in a quick bear hug.
"You know how to make an entrance, Gary. You run off to fight were monsters, and two weeks later you're back and panicking the city."
Garyth grabs his brother's arm, "It's much worse than any of us had thought, Giles. I'll tell you about it later, but we have to get as many people out of this city as we can. Are Philip and Jerod here? Where is your family? Where's mom?"
"Slow down, Gary, everyone's fine. Right after you left, Philip and I sent our families to stay at Nesalin. Mom went with them. We stayed at the farms to keep an eye on them, but didn't feel safe keeping the women and kids there. We just came into town last night for supplies, when news of the army got here. I guess it was just in time."
Garyth breathes a sigh of relief. His mother and his nieces and nephews were safe for now in Nesalin. "Giles, make sure Philip and Jerod are at the town gate before an hour is up. We are marching the whole town to the forest, and we won't be able to stop for stragglers."
Giles straightens up a little. "Will you need men for fighting?"
Garyth looks up at his brother. Giles had always been the biggest of them. His shoulders were half again as broad as Garyth's, and his arms were powerful. But Giles was a farmer. He'd never swung a sword in his life. Garyth got a quick image of his big, gentle brother hacked to bits on the battlefield. He smiles at him, "If we do, we'll know who to ask. But for now, we need men to help keep the people moving, and bring as much food as a strong man can carry."
Giles hugs him again, and then moves off to organize the food carts.
Garyth wanders through the town, helping where he can, shouting at the guardsmen to move faster. He winds up at the gates just a few moments before the scheduled departure. Osred stomps around, organizing the gathered crowd into columns for the march. As a sergeant, he isn't the highest ranking man there, but he is the largest and most heavily scarred. People move quickly to obey him. "Will we be able to move out on time?" Garyth asks. Osred says, "We're ready to move out now. The stragglers will just have to catch up as best they can. We should get the front moving now, to make more room." Garyth nods. "Do it."
A few moments later, Rennik and Melani return. "Anything?" Garyth asks. Rennik shakes his head. "Nothing so far. But they can't be more than a few hours behind."
"The column is starting to move out. Would you two take the lead? No one will be able to find a better path to Kalama territory."
The rest of the Falcon's gather around Garyth, waiting orders and generally looking bloody and dangerous. Garyth turns to Vincy, "Has anyone seen the elf?"
[Pausing for RP or whatever. I need to know the resolution of Pensive's fight before I can wrap this piece up.]
From: Ty
Subject: question for raja and karl
Since you know you will get an audience with Fellus just by asking, what exactly do you say to him?
From: Mark
Subject: stocking up
Ty
Can I assume that Melani was able to stock up on all her needed supplies, like sling bullets and arrows while in town?
Mark
From: Ty
Subject: Re: stocking up
Well, sling stones, but halfling size arrows might be tough to come by.
From: Mark
Subject: Re: stocking up
Not a problem, I don't think I used all that many arrows. My records show 2. However, I would like to get back up to 20 of the sling bullets.
Are half sized sling bullets available here? If not no big deal. I still have 19.
mark
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Pensive bats away the chatty ruffian's sword, but the fellow turns the blade at the last moment, and his palms slides against the edge. At almost the same moment, the other man slips past Pensive to block the doorway. He stands there, grinning.
The last thing Pensive wants is to get trapped in the house with these two. Nor does he want to get flanked by them. If he can, he'll try to spring attack the murderer at the door, then tumble beyond him to the alleyway, where he'll move far enough down the alley so that he can get an AOO if they threaten him. (Dodge point on the guy at the door)
If he can't do a spring attack, he'll just try to tumble past the guy at the door, and get down the alley far enough to get AOO's with the stonesash as a reach weapon.(Dodge point on the guy at the door)
If he can't tumble past the guy at the door, he'll attack whichever of the two is nearer. (Dodge point whichever one is behind him-- and thank goodness for my Mobility feat!)
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Pensive yanks back the stonesash after it strikes the floor, and in the same motion, continues spinning until he is facing the ruffian blocking the door. He snaps the sash at the man's face [Attack 15 vs AC19, miss] causing the rogue to jerk his head back. Pensive then drops to the floor and scrambles between the man's legs and out the door [Attempt to pass through occupied square without AOO Tumble roll 26 vs DC25, success]. The surprised rogue spins to stab Pensive in the back, but the fleet monk is already rolling to his feet and cart wheeling down the alley, coming to a stop some twenty feet away.
Pensive stretches the stonesash to its full length, and faces the doorway grimly.
Inside, the two men take one look at each other, then bolt back into the house and around the corner out of sight.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Race for Overlook
Pensive waits for the two men to charge him-- but they are wiser than that, it would seem. He bites his lip, and when they do not appear from the doorway, he cautiously folds the stonesash to half length.
There was no sense in giving them chase through the house. Pensive makes his way quickly to the end of the alley, stonesash at the ready. What had he revealed to them? Nothing, really-- but they had given him much. The enemy was uncoordinated, blind. They had not known where Mission and the Child were. They expected them to still be with Garyth's troupe.
Blood and stone. Mission had better have left Nesalin. Back in Bannock's Ire, the Kaishin would be safe.
The Path would bend where it willed. Pensive comes to the front of the alley, and searches the streets for sign of the two men who had attacked him.
If he does not see them, he will make his way cautiously back to the gates to find Garyth and let him know of the fight with the two men. He will also ask about Garret's farm.
Checking In
Subject: Re: question for raja and karl
Farron will let Sa'id respond since it was his idea to go there. ;-)
:-D
From: Ty
Subject: a check in
Can I get a quick check in from everyone? No one has stuff they want to do?
Raja, can you write up the turn where you ask about the stuff on your list?
Gracias.
From: Mark
Subject: Re: a check in
Melani is ready to go. Her bow finger is itchy. She is eager to return to her forest where they have places to hide.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: a check in
If Pensive sees the two theives, he will attack them.
If he doesn't he will find Garyth, and let him know what happened.
He will ask where the Garret farm is, and if it is on the way to the forest, he will detour to retrieve the family.
If it is not on the way of the march. . . hmm. Just let me know, Ty.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: a check in
I was waiting for something from Raja. Farron might have a response at that time.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: a check in
Rennik is ready to head back to the forest as well. He will be sure, also, to replenish his dry rations and water.
From: Celia
Subject: Re: a check in
Osred is ready to go at any moment with as many of the locals as are also ready.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: a check in
Garyth looks over his shoulder, quickly scanning the faces of the people gathered to leave. When the Nesalin army broke and ran, Garyth had feared he'd never see any of his family again. It was a terrible thing, to feel alone in the world, completely unconnected. But now he knew that his nieces and nephews and mother were safe, at least for the time being. His brothers aren't warriors, but even so it's comforting to know that they're here. Gods willing, they would make it to the forest ahead of the undead, and there would be no need for Giles to pick up a sword.
Still, even the forest wouldn't be protection for long. The Kalama were brave fighters, but how long would they stand against the demon's legions? What will happen when the undead do make it to the forest? Garyth shakes his head. There will be time to cross that bridge when they come to it. For now they needed to concentrate on getting there.
Just about ready to move out, Garyth looks over the gathered townspeople once more, noticing a conspicuous absence. "Has anyone seen the elf?" he asks.
OOC: Going to need to know if Pensive makes it back. Also whether or not Garyth is familiar with the Garrets or where their farm is.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: a check in
"Sunmaster, Farron and I have learned several new things at the wizards' college. We have learned the accepted historical name of the being that the halflings call Kor Garesh. It is rightly called Melancthnagesh the Devourer. It was the general of Mon Kada's legions in the blood wars. Also, we conducted a brief study of magical imprisonment methods and concluded that it was indeed imprisoned by the divine intervention of Pelor himself, as no earthly magic could possibly have been strong enough."
"As we told you before, we have seen the creature's prison. A slab of obsidian has fallen or been cut from one corner of the prison, and it seems that through this break in its bonds Melancthnagesh is exerting significant influence in the world. If you, like us, felt a tremor of dark fear earlier today... well, my guess is that Melancthnagesh is increasing its ability to project power in the world as its army battles Nesalin's forces. Melancthangesh feeds on life force; its halfling name is literally translated "soul drinker." If the Devourer can consume enough life force to break free of its prison, it could destroy all of Huss with little effort."
"So we return to you hoping for even the smallest kernel of knowledge. Do you know anything of Melancthnagesh, or of such divine prisons? We must find a way to repair the prison before the Devourer gains enough strength to break free, but the divine is," Sa'id coughs, "...not my area of expertise."
"Can you help us? Even a suggestion of a place to start looking..."
Let My Garyth Go, The Sunmaster
Subject: Re: a check in
Farron will wait for the Sunmaster's response. (With bated breath, I might add.)
From: Ty
Subject: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
Rennik and Melani move off to take the lead position, Rennik pausing only long enough to stuff his food pouch with jerky and dry tack.
Garyth turns back to his men. "Has anyone seen the elf?"
Vincy is just starting to shrug, when pensive runs up. "The elf is right here."
[I need the RP between Garyth and Pensive on recent events.]
From: Scott
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
Overlook's evacuation is just getting underway when Pensive trots up to Garyth. "The elf is right here, Garyth."
The soldier looks at him-- Pensive does not imagine that there's very much happiness in that glance, but he barrels into his news all the same. "I was ambushed by a pair of men who seemed to know that Mission had rescued the Kaishin. They also believed that the child and the father were still with you.
"Our enemy is not as farseeing as I had feared. He is powerful, yes, but he lacks knowledge! He trusts in the work of his underlings to bring him scraps of information! Don't you see, Garyth? He is vulnerable after all! There is hope!
"The melee before the Shadow arrived, the men's ambush-- you see? The enemy flails about-- powerful, true, terrifying, yes-- but blind! He knows only what is told him, just like any other flesh and blood!"
Pensive is almost beside himself with excitement. He grips Garyth's arm with a wide boyish grin, and gives a wild, high whoop that startles a horse nearby. And then he pulls his hand away quickly, and gives it a shake-- the hand that the murderer had cut. Seeing the blood on his palm reminds him of the farmer, and Pensive sobers.
"There was a man that they used to. . . lure me into the ambush. He was a farmer I believe, and he said that his family was at Garrett's farm. Where is that?"
From: Ty
Subject: The Sunmaster
Fellus had seemed a bit surprised to see the young wizards again so soon, but when Sa'id has finished speaking, he just nods solemnly. "I fear that there are some fundamental differences we must discuss. You see, while wizards may keep detailed lore concerning the processes they use to accomplish their ends, we priests tend to be far more concerned with the whys. What power we wield is granted to us as grace through our god."
"If there is record of such a binding in our texts, it will be spiritual in nature. What the creature was, the dire need of the worshippers, the greatness of God in granting them reprieve. That sort of thing. Not, 'here is how you make a prison.'"
Fellus sits quietly in thought for a moment. "I know of no prayers to petition for such a prison directly. However, there are prayers of great power that ask for the direct intervention of the gods. Such petitions are only heard when coming from the mightiest clerics, and one never knows what the intervention will entail. But, if the need of these halfling worshippers of Pelor was dire, and they joined their voices to him in great petition, I can see how the demon might have been trapped by Pelor's hand."
Fellus stands up, slowly. "I must think on this more, my friends. If indeed this is the path that must be taken, it will mean I will have to make the trip to this temple. There is no other on the isle who can take my place. I'm afraid you have laid a heavy weight on me, through no fault of your own."
He clasps hands with the two wizards, his grip still firm for such an old man. "Come see me in the morning. I spend this night in prayer."
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The Sunmaster
"Thank you, Sunmaster," Farron replies. "I'm sorry we have placed this burden on you, but we knew no other option and surely this evil must be stopped. You must be very careful as Kor Garesh has hands in this city. Remember Cadfael. Is there some way we can help you? Do you have sufficient guards to watch out for you while you consider what must be done? I am at your service if you have need of us."
At some point, when they are alone, Farron will say to Sa'id, "He will need assistance, a guide at least, to get him to the temple. I don't want to go back to that jungle, but I will if we must. Are you with me?"
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Sunmaster
Fellus replies, "I believe I am well protected here in the temple. But thank you for your concern. If the reach of this demon is long enough to touch me here, in the heart of Pelor's realm, then I fear there is nothing we can do to stop him.
"But just in case, I will have two of our more doughty clerics join me for prayer, and have them bring their hammers with them." He smiles as he sees the wizards off. "Come see me in the morning."
From: Mike
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
Pensive's news is good, but it's hard to get as excited as he is over this more academic piece of information--as useful as it may eventually turn out to be--when there's the much more immediate concern of moving a thousand unorganized people across open terrain just ahead of a slavering undead horde. Still, the elf's good mood is infectious, and Garyth finds himself nodding and smiling.
The smile fades, though, when Pensive tells about the farmer's murder. Garyth knew Dannil Garret; he was a good man. It would have taken more than a simple threat to make him betray a neighbor like this; his family must be in real danger. Conflicting emotions show on Garyth's face. He should go, do what he can to save the family. Dannil would have done the same if it had been Garyth's family in trouble. But Garyth's responsibility was to ensure that as many people as possible made it to the forest, and he could not abandon that responsibility.
Amid these opposing feelings of obligation, a thought occurs to Garyth. These murderers were spies for the dark one. If they were taken out, perhaps one more source of intelligence would be taken from the demon. It might even give the people of Overlook a better chance of surviving.
"The Garret farm is about a half-mile southwest of town. It's close enough that we may be able to go there and still rejoin the group before they've even gotten down the road very far. Come on," he says, gesturing for Pensive to follow. "We need to find Captain Bragga."
OOC: Garyth will go find Bragga and tell him about the possibility of plugging that intel hole as well as saving the family. If Rennik, Melani, or Osred are around and interested, he'd want them to come with for the discussion with Bragga. If he gets consent he'll want to make sure that all of his party are mounted before setting out.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
Would Melani and Rennik want to go?
From: Mark
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
Hearing about a family in need, Melani is willing to help. She will not be all that usefull with the large group of people. The first part of the journey has been scouted out already, and if it came to heavy fighting, she is not all that usefull, as she found out against the Brute.
OOC: Of course she wants to go. :)
Mark
From: Scott
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
Pensive says to Garyth quietly, "You cannot come with us, Garyth. You know it-- these people are yours to lead to safety. Of all those that would lead them, you are the most capable in war. We cannot chance your death. It would be better to not go at all than to risk losing your leadership. And the halfling woman cannot come either. She will be needed at the forest, to bargain for passage with her tribe. And neither the cleric-- he must remain with the greater portion of these men and women to shield them from the undead."
He extends his hand, palm open, fingers pointing toward Garyth, and then flips it over. It is an oddly sad gesture, but the elf-boy's mouth is bent in a little smile. "If a few of your men are willing to chance it, I would gladly ride with them to Garrett's farm. And perhaps the halfling warrior," a flicker of doubt passes through Pensive's eyes for a moment, but he continues, "and that should be enough."
From: Mike
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
The elf is right. Garyth knows it. There's too much at stake here to leave. He lets out a long breath, then nods. "If Captain Bragga will allow it, I'll send some of my men with you. And if Rennik is willing to go, you'd be wise to heed his word. He's as capable a warrior and scout as I've ever known."
OOC: If Bragga says it's OK, Garyth will send Vincy, Kenneth, and, keeping Munch with the main group.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The Sunmaster
> At some point, when they are alone, Farron will say to Sa'id, "He will
> need assistance, a guide at least, to get him to the temple. I don't want to go back to that jungle, but I will if we must. Are you with me?"
"Go with you? I'll burn the damn jungle down myself, if it comes to that," Sa'id replies with a sudden grin.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
"I will go on this mercy mission, Friend Garyth. For you to divert your men at this time, this man must have been important to you. We will do what we can to save his family."
Rennik grips Garyth's forearm firmly. "May Mielikki's grace be with you as she accepts your people into her bosom. We will be fast and efficient and catch up before you know we are gone."
What Everyone Is Doing
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
OOC: Has anyone actually told Melani that she can not go to the farm? Unless she has been ordered by Garyth, and maybe even not then, she is planning on helping him out by going to the farm.
Ty, would Melani know the following: How long will it take the people of Overlook to reach the forest of the Kalama? If this farm house is only 1/2 a mile a way and she is with a mounted group, they should be able to get to the farm and back with in an hour. The people of Overlook are mainly on foot, right? Can she reasonably think that she can get to the farmhouse and get back to the refugees long before they get to the forest?
Mark
From: Celia
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
"Those of you going to the farm try not to draw too much attention or everyone is going to ask for a party to go and check on someone they don't see and we can't spare that kind of time."
Especially if the people they're looking for are just further back in the column. Osred has no desire to leave anyone behind, but the time constraint doesn't leave any option. He is thankful to not be in Garyth's shoes as this is hard enough to do to people he doesn't know.
Almost as an afterthought, "And be careful. Those rogues are still about somewhere and they may have other associates at the farm."
From: Ty
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
It's going to take the town a long time to get to kalama lands. 4, maybe even 5 days. Would anyone think to send a messenger back to Nesalin telling them what is happening?
From: Mark
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
OOC: Melani would not think of it. What does she care for the big human town. She is only helping these people becuase they are important to Garyth.
Ty, so Melani would be will with in her rights to think that she could go to the farm house and make it back to the refugees well in time to lead them to the forest?
Mark
From: Ty
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
Well, it would sort of be counter productive. Melani's best use right now is keeping the town moving quickly.
From: Ty
Subject: update
Ok, need a couple things.
Who exactly is going to the Garret farm?
And what is everyone else doing?
From: Karl
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
Where is Nesalin's army now that they have fled? Did they re-engage at some point or are they heading back to Nesalin with their tail between their legs?
From: Scott
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
Pensive is going to the farm.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: When Garyth was in Kor Garesh land...
Well, no one in the party knows at this point. Though, certainly if they return to Nesalin, the wizards will hear the news.
From: Mark
Subject: Re: update
Unless Garyth orders Melani to stay with the towns people, she is going to the farm.
Mark
From: Karl
Subject: Re: update
Farron is inviting Sa'id to spend the night at his place in town. In the morning they will meet with the Sunmaster. Farron will also leave a note with his landlady to the effect that his personal effects be given to his aunt and uncle in the event he doesn't return within the month, and if they are un-reachable, his belongings should be turned over to his old mentor at the college. He will send a letter to that effect to Master Thaddeus including a heart-felt thanks to him for all he's taught him.
From: Celia
Subject: Re: update
Osred is ready to move out, but will wait for Garyth to issue the order. (not planning on going to the farm)
From: Mike
Subject: Re: update
Garyth is not going to the Garret farm and will ask Melani not to go either (he can't actually order her not to because she's not under his command), as she is best equipped to pick a route. He will send Vincy, Kenneth, and Robert, as I mentioned before. (To Vincy: "No unnecessary risks, and trust Rennik. He's got sharp eyes and ears, and he's a solid tactician as well.") If Bragga can spare a man, Garyth will ask him to send a runner to Nesalin, informing them of the plan. If not, then Garyth won't send anyone, not wanting to send one of his own men or a civilian. Garyth will want to be up front when the march begins.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: update
As far as the route is concerned, Garyth thinks that they'll make better time if they keep to the road, but it'll increase the chances of meeting the undead army. So it would be best to detour southeast off the road before the split to the Nesalin road, then swing back on course at some point after they pass the crossroads. He won't want to take any chances of running into the undead, so he'll detour at what he thinks is a safe distance from the crossroads given how fast he thinks the undead army will be moving. After the crossroads the road swings southeast, so if Melani can find a good route it will be much faster to cut straight east rather than following the road. (See the 10/21/04 digest for a map that shows the roads.)
From: Mark
Subject: Re: update
Melani is grupmy that she will not get to go to help at the farm, but will do as Garyth asks.
"Freind Garyth, I will do as you say. I will leave now and start looking for an easy path."
If he has no objection, she will head out and look for a path that would be easier to follow for the group of people who will be following. She will also keep an eye out for any thing flying around, such as witches. She does not plany on getting too far ahead of the group.
OOC: Ty, is Melani riding a pony?
Mark
Soul-Drinking Knives == Bad
Subject: Re: update
Invitation accepted. We should totally spend the night getting good and drunk on some nice wine while we're in the city. :)
From: Karl
Subject: Re: update
While staying very alert so as not to be snuck upon by someone with a soul-drinking knife.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: update
Magic Circle against Evil should do nicely. I assume that still works even if the caster goes on to get good and drunk. ;)