Middle Earth FA63 D&D Game. Fourth Adventure. Journey to Rivendell

[CatInASuit]

Actually Elfstan, you don't need to wander back to the tavern. You are carrying around a very valuable item. Please next time, think a little bit more. Next time it might not be just your money pouch.

Mulligan tosses Elfstan's money pouch onto the table and goes back for seconds for breakfast.

[glee]

If Ghan doesn't protest, Elfstan wouldn't mind having a goodberry for breakfast. That might help with the hammers. Otherwise, he's had a hangover or two before in the past and has lived to tell about it.


Ghân has Goodberries to spare and also recommends drinking plenty of water.

He adds that since he doesn't drink or smoke, he (and Fang and Anca :cool: ) would be happy to look after valuable items for those wishing to make a night of it.

[Elendil's Heir]

Actually Elfstan, you don't need to wander back to the tavern. You are carrying around a very valuable item. Please next time, think a little bit more. Next time it might not be just your money pouch.

Mulligan tosses Elfstan's money pouch onto the table and goes back for seconds for breakfast.

So she had it all along? It was just a cautionary pickpocketing? :dubious:

Thoroncir will tell the garrison commander, "Never mind."

[Malacandra]

Ah yes, "Turn Mulligan upside down and shake until the tinkling stops" was going to be my next suggestion, as long as we were somewhere where it wasn't illegal to carry an inordinate amount of concealed weaponry.

Hobbits. :sigh:

[What Exit?]

So she had it all along? It was just a cautionary pickpocketing? :dubious:

Thoroncir will tell the garrison commander, "Never mind."

You never got as far as the commander, we just needed to wait for Elfstan to check in and maybe sweat a bit before Mulligan did her reveal. She never would have let you go.

The other big question was how long you would remain in town as Ghân and Deor were asking and offering help while there.

[appleciders]

The other big question was how long you would remain in town as Ghân and Deor were asking and offering help while there.
Deor wasn't planning on staying more than a day or two- he doesn't mind helping while he's here, but it's not something he'd stick around to do once the party's ready to move on.

[RogueRacer]

As Elfstan accepts his purse, he tries to hide his surprise, but mostly fails.

"That's... disappointing..."

He sighs deeply.

"Curunauth and I made a mistake out on the road. That I won't deny or try to dismiss."

He pauses searching for the right words.

"If I've let the party down, tell me. Myself, I think fighting for our lives was a hard enough lesson. Curunath and I both could have died. Do you think I want to be responsible for the death of someone who has lived through multiple ages?"

Elfstan sighs again.

"The thing is, having drinks with trusted company is something else. There has to be a time to unwind. If I can't do it among companions that I've fought beside in a town governed by the King's mayor, when can I?"

Elfstan stares at the ground for a minute and the reluctantly adds, "You know. I always felt that Grandpa Samwise was a little disappointed that I wanted to be a Treasure Finder like Old Bilbo. He cautioned me many times about going down the wrong path. I promised him I would't and I don't think I have. My hands are quick, but I'm careful with my targets. I've read 'There and Back Again' many times. I guess I missed the part where Old Bilbo nicked the purses from the dwarves while they were in their cups."

With that, Elfstan heads back to his room.

[What Exit?]

As Elfstan is walking off he hears Gilraen say, "I honestly agree with Elfstan. The Tavern on the Bridge is a highly respectable tavern. The staff keeps an eye out for the patrons and the prices keep out the rabble."

Once Elfstan is out of earshot, she continues to other subjects, "I hope we don't delay more than a day here. The help for the town will be greatly appreciated, but I feel for some reason we should get Rivendell with some speed. My brother indicated that much was moving in the North, maybe even more than the South. We might be in time to help. Now if you excuse me, I think I will go see if I can heal Elfstan's head and pride a bit."

She follows Elfstan up with a small herbal brew that includes athelas. It does wonders for relieving the worst. "We of the house of healing do not normally interfere with the body telling you not to drink too much, but I thought I would make an exception in this case. Sit out on the porch and smoke your sweet galenas (http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/s/sweetgalenas.html). You should feel better shortly. Here are some dry biscuits to nibble on and a pitcher of cool water. Drink as much as you can as Ghân already advised."

[Elendil's Heir]

Sir Thoroncir asks to speak to Mulligan privately and then says, "My lady, with respect... I don't think it was properly your place to try to teach Elfstan that particular lesson. A friendly talk with him in confidence would probably have done just as much good, without embarrassing him in front of his friends. He is a most estimable Hobbit, I think, and unlikely to make the same mistake twice in any event. Now if I have given any offense by sharing these thoughts, I humbly apologize, and beg your forgiveness. Consider this all just a word to the wise." He bows and takes his leave.

When Princess Gilraen has left Elfstan, the Knight-errant will also ask to speak to him in his room alone. He says to the Hobbit, "Don't be too hard on yourself, my friend. We have all made mistakes, and in some of the more wild and dangerous reaches of this realm, any misstep might lead to injury, torment or death. I have heard no one blame you for what happened with Curunauth, and I urge you not to blame yourself. We all live and learn. Keep your chin up, and remember what a valued member of this party you have been, and - of course! - you still remain. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting your grandfather, I think he would be proud of you, as I am." He claps Elfstan on the shoulder, shows himself out and goes to check on Seafoam's stabling.

Having no further business in Tharbad, he is ready to leave for Rivendell whenever the rest of the party is.

[appleciders]

Deor will leave carefully to pack for the continued trip, making a point of meeting Mulligan's eyes and smiling as he leaves, then giving a pat on the back to Elfstan in the hall on his way out. He hopes to avoid taking sides in this.

[glee]

Deor will leave carefully to pack for the continued trip, making a point of meeting Mulligan's eyes and smiling as he leaves, then giving a pat on the back to Elfstan in the hall on his way out. He hopes to avoid taking sides in this.

Ghân does the same.

[Omi no Kami]

Who would've thought, but this morning has gone to show at least one elf that there really are times when being really, really good at Not Being Seen can be a useful social skill- while preparing to leave, Miron will try to make a point of not getting involved on anyone's side.

[What Exit?]

July 26th: The party spends this day in Tharbad resting and recuperating and picking up some minor last minute items. Ghân and Deor are able to help the town quite a bit in a short time.

The party should be ready to set out into the wilder-lands tomorrow morning. Gilraen requests that Lord Ianthír's himself briefs the party in the best route to follow to get to the Last Bridge for horses. She asks Miron in particular to pay very close attention.

Lord Ianthír explains, "This route will be about 280 miles. There are many small fords but nothing that should be tough to cross at this time of year.
....I wish I had a skilled Ranger to send with you, but I have no one to spare that knows the lands. I do know of one old swamp Hobbit that is about 15 miles from here that you might be able to hire if you want. He knows the lands very well and I would guess would not charge much in the way of gold. If you wish to hire him though, bring a gift of a small keg of Ale and some salted ham or beef just to open negotiations the right way. His name is Gorbo Marshsweeper."

[glee]

Ghân (perhaps feeling light-headed) suggests we hire the swamp hobbit Gorbo Marshsweeper purely for his name.*


*also he was seriously recommended :)

[RogueRacer]

She follows Elfstan up with a small herbal brew that includes athelas. It does wonders for relieving the worst. "We of the house of healing do not normally interfere with the body telling you not to drink too much, but I thought I would make an exception in this case. Sit out on the porch and smoke your sweet galenas (http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/s/sweetgalenas.html). You should feel better shortly. Here are some dry biscuits to nibble on and a pitcher of cool water. Drink as much as you can as Ghân already advised."Elfstan may still appear a little sullen, but he's glad for Gilraen's company. With a small smile he says, "Thank you for the drink and the care, Princess. If you see me in this state again, feel free to let me suffer and thus further learn the lesson of not drinking so much. It's a harsh lesson, but I'm afraid it's one that needs to be relearned from time to time."

When Princess Gilraen has left Elfstan, the Knight-errant will also ask to speak to him in his room alone. He says to the Hobbit, "Don't be too hard on yourself, my friend. We have all made mistakes, and in some of the more wild and dangerous reaches of this realm, any misstep might lead to injury, torment or death. I have heard no one blame you for what happened with Curunauth, and I urge you not to blame yourself. We all live and learn. Keep your chin up, and remember what a valued member of this party you have been, and - of course! - you still remain. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting your grandfather, I think he would be proud of you, as I am." He claps Elfstan on the shoulder, shows himself out and goes to check on Seafoam's stabling.Elfstan offers Sir Thoroncir his spare pipe and pouch of pipe weed. With a wry smile he jokes, "at least I kept this safe."

Before Thoroncir can leave he adds, "Thank you for your words Sir Thoroncir. I... well..."

To himself he softly says, "that I should do myself."

Again to Thoroncir, "Thank you for telling me my place in the party still stands. When the rest are ready to travel, I will be too."

[Elendil's Heir]

Thoroncir smiles. "My thanks, but pipe-weed has never been to my taste. Smoke a bowlful for me, friend Elfstan. I will see you soon."

[What Exit?]

A little more information from talking over the route.

The party will be heading through a section of Eriador and Arnor that was part of long lost Cardolan but always sparsely populated. There are few paths and few settlements and rare homesteads. The people are usually suspicious of strangers and always worried about attack and ambush. Trappers, hermits, scroungers and scratch farmers are the typical residents. The few residents are mostly humans. Eventually the Hoarwell will become a barge river taking goods from the mountain passes to Tharbad. But the barge traffic is still very light. Men will eventually tame this land as the soil is rich.

[Elendil's Heir]

Looking at the map, I see the Hoarwell (Mitheithel) River goes northeast from Tharbad. Are there any boats we could hire? (Depending on how wide the river is, sailboats could tack against the wind even going upstream). We might make better time than on horseback. I presume we'd be bearing right onto the Bruinen (Loudwater) River when we're about halfway to Rivendell; looks like a more direct route than remaining on the Hoarwell, which turns due north at that point.

[What Exit?]

That was discussed early on, but as we are going upstream the entire way it might take longer. Gil-Gandel and others ruled out the idea of using the rivers. The discussion was at the end of the last thread.

[appleciders]

Looking at the map, I see the Hoarwell (Mitheithel) River goes northeast from Tharbad. Are there any boats we could hire? (Depending on how wide the river is, sailboats could tack against the wind even going upstream). We might make better time than on horseback. I presume we'd be bearing right onto the Bruinen (Loudwater) River when we're about halfway to Rivendell; looks like a more direct route than remaining on the Hoarwell, which turns due north at that point.

Could we really hire a big enough boat to take our horses as well? I'm quite hesitant to leave them behind.

[RogueRacer]

Ghân (perhaps feeling light-headed) suggests we hire the swamp hobbit Gorbo Marshsweeper purely for his name.*Agreed!

Elfstan is feeling much better by supper and gets caught up on things. His opinion is that we should at least meet with Gorbo Marshsweeper. A good guide could cut time off our journey. If our impression of Gorbo is less than favorable, all we are out is a small keg of ale and some meat.

[Elendil's Heir]

That was discussed early on, but as we are going upstream the entire way it might take longer. Gil-Gandel and others ruled out the idea of using the rivers. The discussion was at the end of the last thread.

Sorry, thanks, I forgot that.

[What Exit?]

Curunauth, "Pardon me for interrupting. I do know the rivers have many rapids that we could not hope to get past, especially with the horses. There are also marshes that would be less than friendly to the Hobbits and Humans in the group. I understand many died from disease that encountered these ancient fens. I see two so far in favor of contacting this Hobbit Gorbo. Perhaps the rest could weigh in and we can make our plans. A guide might be excellent. At least I can get us into Imladris itself but I don't know the way to the bridge from here.
...Mulligan and Elfstan have you ever visited? Meridoc was often a guest and Samwise more than once. I think your Uncle Pip was there once with Meridoc. Gil-Gandel surely you have visited before?"


The two young Hobbits have never made the journey before though many in their families have. Gil-Gandel has indeed visited before, his Lord now resides there most of the time.

[Elendil's Heir]

Thoroncir shares Elfstan's opinion as to possibly hiring the colorfully-named Gorbo Marshsweeper.

[appleciders]

Deor is in favor of hiring this guide (after thoroughly vetting him!) and is willing to put 10 gold towards buying some ale as a sign of good faith in bargaining!

[glee]

Ghân will put up 10gp for salted meat.

[What Exit?]

These offers of gold are far more than needed. A total of 10 gold would be plenty and could be taken from the fees received from the Dwarves and Lorliana.

[glee]

OK, is the party in favour of hiring Gorbo and paying out of party income?

Ghân is happy with Lord Ianthír's recommendation - but would like to check when we meet Gorbo that nobody is impersonating him!

[What Exit?]

Lord Ianthír thinks on what Ghân said, “That is an excellent point. It never occurred to me that someone would try to imitate Gorbo Marshsweeper. He has very dark greasy hair with a touch of grey on the sides and a receding hairline. He looks to be about 65 for a Hobbit. He is no more than 3’1” tall. He does not have the best hygiene and usually smells of the marshes if you are close to him. He is a very excellent swimmer. Far superior to any Hobbit I have met. He has no pot belly as most Hobbits his age have and is a tough little customer and a great tracker. He also knows everything that is edible in this region between here and the Last Bridge. Oh wait, he has a distinct scare on his right hand, it appears at some point a knife was driven through his hand. He is shy at least three teeth last I saw him.
…He has a beloved pony that also looks decrepit but appears to have great endurance. It is dun colored with a white diamond on his head and he calls it Beast. He also usually has several swamp dogs about. They are as big as he is and run to a dirty yellow color. That makes them much smaller than Anca or Fang.”

[Elendil's Heir]

Hmmm. Does he play the banjo? :D

[glee]

Lord Ianthír thinks on what Ghân said, “That is an excellent point. It never occurred to me that someone would try to imitate Gorbo Marshsweeper. He has very dark greasy hair with a touch of grey on the sides and a receding hairline. He looks to be about 65 for a Hobbit. He is no more than 3’1” tall. He does not have the best hygiene and usually smells of the marshes if you are close to him. He is a very excellent swimmer. Far superior to any Hobbit I have met. He has no pot belly as most Hobbits his age have and is a tough little customer and a great tracker. He also knows everything that is edible in this region between here and the Last Bridge. Oh wait, he has a distinct scare on his right hand, it appears at some point a knife was driven through his hand. He is shy at least three teeth last I saw him.
…He has a beloved pony that also looks decrepit but appears to have great endurance. It is dun colored with a white diamond on his head and he calls it Beast. He also usually has several swamp dogs about. They are as big as he is and run to a dirty yellow color. That makes them much smaller than Anca or Fang.”

Ghân thanks Lord Ianthír for his excellent description. :)
Not only would it be very difficult for anyone to be so precise an impersonator, but the Hobbit's swamp dogs will know if trickery is afoot.

[What Exit?]

As the party has a majority opinion to try and hire Gorbo Marshsweeper, they will use 10 gold in party funds to procure a few small Kegs of good Ale and much salted meat. Gilraen thinks to throw in a few tins of bread flour.

Does Deor turn Elfstan invisible?

The party sets out early on July 27th with the riding order suggested by Thoroncir (http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showpost.php?p=10341049&postcount=1276). The weather is hot, hitting 95° but water is plentiful along the path to Gorbo. The first 10 miles are easy going at a good rate. The next 5 get steadily tougher for horses and the party must dismount at times. Several times Folca kept the party to the paths that would lead back to the river. It is nearly noon when the party arrives, tired and muddy.

How does the party approach the low hill that he lives in?

[RogueRacer]

Catching up...

Curunauth, "Mulligan and Elfstan have you ever visited? Meridoc was often a guest and Samwise more than once. I think your Uncle Pip was there once with Meridoc. Gil-Gandel surely you have visited before?"


Elfstan to Curunauth, "I have never visited, but I've listened to many tales of Rivendell. I'm greatly looking forward to seeing it!"


Does Deor turn Elfstan invisible?
"Let's wait until after we have spoken to Gorbo. Depending on how reclusive he is, having two Hobbits front and center in the negotiations should help. One of us being invisible may send the wrong message."


How does the party approach the low hill that he lives in?"Can I suggest that Mulligan and I approach him along with our captain?"

[NAF1138]

"Let's wait until after we have spoken to Gorbo. Depending on how reclusive he is, having two Hobbits front and center in the negotiations should help. One of us being invisible may send the wrong message."

"Can I suggest that Mulligan and I approach him along with our captain?"

I agree with Elfstan's thinking here.

[Elendil's Heir]

I agree with Elfstan's thinking here.

Likewise. Good idea.

[glee]

Elfstan
"Can I suggest that Mulligan and I approach him along with our captain?"

Ghân thinks sending fellow hobbits plus our Captain is fine.
He offers to come along if the party need someone to talk to the swamp dogs...

[Elendil's Heir]

(Duplicate post)

[Elendil's Heir]

BTW, once we meet this redoubtable backwoods Hobbit, Thoroncir will say "sir" whenever possible, to avoid the indignity of dissolving into schoolboy giggles after speaking the words "Gorbo Marshsweeper." ;)

[Malacandra]

Off we go then, with me much more in command of my dignity than our sea-knight appears capable of managing. :)

[What Exit?]

How do the Hobbits and Gil-Gandel approach the low hill that he lives in?

[NAF1138]

How do the Hobbits and Gil-Gandel approach the low hill that he lives in?

Did they take a keg of ale as suggested? If not I will offer up one of my very good kegs for them.

[What Exit?]

Did they take a keg of ale as suggested? If not I will offer up one of my very good kegs for them.
Yes: They will use 10 gold in party funds to procure a few small Kegs of good Ale and much salted meat. Gilraen thinks to throw in a few tins of bread flour. (http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showpost.php?p=10341931&postcount=532)

[NAF1138]

Yes: They will use 10 gold in party funds to procure a few small Kegs of good Ale and much salted meat. Gilraen thinks to throw in a few tins of bread flour. (http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showpost.php?p=10341931&postcount=532)

Oh, I just read that too. Sorry. :smack:

[RogueRacer]

How do the Hobbits and Gil-Gandel approach the low hill that he lives in?I would say load the supplies on one of the ponies and approach on foot leading the mounts. If we see a path, follow it. If not, head directly up the hill to make it obvious that we aren't trying to sneak up on him. When we're in ear shot, we call out to whatever dwelling is there.

[What Exit?]

Leading Flower loaded with the supplies Elfstan, Mulligan and Gil-Gandel approach the hill taking the rough path. I’ll assume that both Hawks are in the air, circling overhead. As they near, Elfstan’s youthful voice cries out, “Hail Gorbo Marshsweeper, we would like to talk to you and we mean no harm and have some Ale to share.”

About 45 seconds later, Gil-Gandel determines the three are surrounded. He halts the small group.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan makes no hostile moves and keeps his hands up and away from his weapons. All the same, he slips Gil-Gandel and Mulligan one of their warning hand signs to be prepared.

He calls out again, "Hail Gorbo Marshsweeper! May we speak over some ale and maybe a pipe?"

[What Exit?]

A short shrill whistle is heard and then seven medium sized dogs step out surrounding the trio. Finally a short lean and weather worn Hobbit steps out. He matches well the description given. “Ale you say? Who sent you?”

[RogueRacer]

Relieved that they were not surrounded by something worse, Elfstan replies, "We come on our own accord, but we were told of you by Lord Mayor Ianthír of Tharbad. We have a journey in front of us and could use a skilled guide. This keg of ale on my pony is yours if you will hear us out."

[Elendil's Heir]

Can Gil-Gandel tell by whom or by what his small group is surrounded? What do the birds see?

[What Exit?]

Deor sees through Folca's eyes that only the dogs and Hobbit are there. One larger dog waits a but further back.

Gorbo Marshsweeper, "I 'ear yew out. Wutch choo wan? A guide? ... Don mine da pups, dae won'ch hert choo lessen I tell dem. ... Come enn bring yer friends up. I don mine Beards and Biguns."

The rest of his talk will be in straight English, that was just to get a feel.

[appleciders]

Was that Cajun? If he'd referred to himself as "me" periodically, I'd have said we'd stumbled in Louisiana or the Florida Panhandle for sure.

[Omi no Kami]

"If only I could justify concealing myself on someone else's land," Miron mutters very, very quietly, sticking close to the edge of the group. "For I fear that the only thing worse than an eccentric, potentially violent swamp hobbit is one who knows exactly where you are."

[RogueRacer]

Gorbo Marshsweeper, "I 'ear yew out. Wutch choo wan? A guide? ... Don mine da pups, dae won'ch hert choo lessen I tell dem. ... Come enn bring yer friends up. I don mine Beards and Biguns."


Elfstan glances at Gil-Gandel for a nod of affirmation.

If he gets it...

He will signal for the rest to come on up. If they can't see us, one of us will have to go get them. Leading Flower, Elfstan follows Gorbo, inquiring about his pups.

[What Exit?]

Gorbo is happy to speak of his pups, "They are like family to me. Good long lived work dogs and we help keep each other safe and fed in lean times. They are very smart, prob'ly smarter than me."

Assuming Gil-Gandel would give the signal the party moves up and ducks into Gorbo's surprisingly large hole. The door is only 4' high and the small front hall heads up before heading down again, but it leads to a very large room with plenty of stump stools and ceilings nearly 6' high. The floors are dirt and gravel but not too messy. He is happy to crack open the first keg of ale and happy to share some jerky he has.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan will take a cup of ale if offered and some jerky. In return, he will offer Gorbo some Longbottom leaf from his pouch. Elfstan is working now and will be much more careful of the number of cups he drinks than he was the other night.

To Gorbo, "Sorry for not introducing myself outside. My name is Elfstan Fairbairn of Westmarch in The Shire. The other Hobbit in our party is Mulligan Took. The Elf you first met is the captain of our party, Gil-Gandel."

Elfstan proceeds to introduce the rest and will then pause to see if Gil-Gandel or anyone else wants to take over or has any small talk.

[NAF1138]

Assuming Gil-Gandel would give the signal the party moves up and ducks into Gorbo's surprisingly large hole.


Gwaelur thinks to bring some of the pipeweed and his pipe with him.

"Do you smoke Gorbo? Would you like to partake of some of this fine pipeweed with me?"

Gwaelur is trying to help to create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

[What Exit?]

Gorbo, "Smoke? I try not to smoke, I'm very carefull around my fires. What's that yee got there?"

To Elfstan, "Well greetings Elfstan, I've heard of the Shire. I hear all the Hobbits there are rich and well fed and live in vast fancy holes and even fancy bigguns homes. I'm glad you like the jerky. It was a good year for giant muskrat. Them very good eating fresh. So what else did yuo bring me and what do you need me to do?"

[glee]

When he arrives, Ghân will introduce Fang and Anca to Gorbo, and greet the swamp dogs too.

[NAF1138]

Gorbo, "Smoke? I try not to smoke, I'm very carefull around my fires. What's that yee got there?"


Gwaelur is a bit taken aback that Gorbo doesn't know about pipeweed. He tries to contain his shock, but doesn't do a very good job. He is about to explain smoking to Gorbo as he tries to think of an explination for the practice of smoking, the whole thing sounds...stupid. He looks to Elfstan for help.

[What Exit?]

Gorbo is pleases to meet Ghân sensing a bit of a kindred spirit. The dogs greet Ghân with licks and sniffs. The dogs go through the nosing around, sniffing, barking, growling and finally submitting to Anca a bit. They play outside while the two legged go inside.

[appleciders]

Deor approaches with Ghan, Folca perched on his fist. He'll greet Gorbo cheerfully and pat the dogs with his free hand if they seem in the mood to be friendly to people.

[What Exit?]

One dog cautiously sniffs Deor's hand and seem to decide he is fine. The dog is happy enough for the attention and excepts the petting. He seems to be especially fond of scritches behind the ears.

[RogueRacer]

Gwaelur is a bit taken aback that Gorbo doesn't know about pipeweed. He tries to contain his shock, but doesn't do a very good job. He is about to explain smoking to Gorbo as he tries to think of an explination for the practice of smoking, the whole thing sounds...stupid. He looks to Elfstan for help.Elfstan gives Gwaelur a confused look. He's never met a Hobbit that didn't know about pipe weed.

"I think there will be time to introduce Gorbo to pipe weed and smoking if he agrees to guide us."

[Elendil's Heir]

Thoroncir will bow, introduce himself, smile and say nothing else for the moment. He is interested to see how Gilraen introduces herself, and how she reacts to Gorbo.

[Omi no Kami]

Miron is still moderately wary of the dogs, but willing enough to introduce himself. "I'm Miron," he offers, pausing a moment as he tries to think of more details, eventually finishing with a lame "I'm an elf."

[glee]

Ghân will politely repeat to Gorbo Elfstan's explanation about guiding.
He will follow Gorbo's lead in the conversation, but will cover both these topics:

- if Gorbo wants to talk dog stuff, Ghân will happily do so
- if Gorbo wants to know about the job, Ghân will explain (but bringing in Gil-Gandel as the party's Captain as soon as possible)

[What Exit?]

So the party members drinks and eat a bit. Gilraen says very little but presents the bread flour to him. Gorbo happily talks about dogs to mainly Ghân.

When the talk turns to the business of leading horses and ponies to the Last Bridge Gorbo responds, "I know some paths that even that Ranger Lord don’t. Tell you what; I think at pony speed I can get you there in 12 days. We’ll have about 282 miles to travel, a few of the paths are a little out of the way, but the long cuts will save time over the short cuts. I’ll need 25 gold for my trouble and I only stand the watches I feel like standing. Some nights I won’t stand watch at all. This all assumes we won’t be foraging, if we’re foraging it will take longer. Do you have the supplies to go for 12-14 more days? There is actually a small fortified inn at the bridge, you can prob’ly restock somewhat there."

[glee]

Ghân mentions Goodberries and offers some to Gorbo.
He asks if these would avoid foraging?

[RogueRacer]

This all assumes we won’t be foraging, if we’re foraging it will take longer. Do you have the supplies to go for 12-14 more days? Good question. Do we?

[NAF1138]

Ghân mentions Goodberries and offers some to Gorbo.
He asks if these would avoid foraging?

The goodberries have been keeping us in good shape, food wise, up until now. Would we need other items that we would be foraging for?

All in all I think 25 gold and not making Gorbo stand watches is a fairly good deal if he is as good as he says he is.

[Malacandra]

I am certainly quite happy with that, and will enjoy the company of this unusual character. Swamp-lore is not my usual field but I am always willing to broaden my horizons.

[Elendil's Heir]

Suits me, too. Lord Ianthir's recommendation of him carries a lot of weight. If the party's provisions run short, they could always do some hunting along the way.

[What Exit?]

Foraging should be taken care of by rations, quickly found stuff, GoodBerries and nightly plant growths.

Ghân has been responsible for the rapid travel of the party.

[glee]

Foraging should be taken care of by rations, quickly found stuff, GoodBerries and nightly plant growths.

Ghân has been responsible for the rapid travel of the party.

:D

[appleciders]

Suits me. Shall we leave tomorrow morning?

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan goes along with hiring Gorbo on his terms.

[What Exit?]

July 28th the party heads out after helping Gorbo a bit with locking down his home and area. He leaves seven of the dogs behind as a pack and brings only Fenrig the second largest dog and Gorbo says he is 6 years old and the best runner and sniffer. Gorbo is riding is pony Beast (http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showpost.php?p=10340533&postcount=529)when he rides.


Gorbo Fenrig Miron exchange positions as needed.

Gwaelur
Gwaelur's pony
Deor
Thoroncir
Miron's pack horse
Gilraen
Scout
Ghan's dogs
Ghan
Elfstan
Curunauth
Lorliana
Lorliana's spare horse
Mulligan

Gil-Gandel

The party sticks to obscure trails many impossible to see until the party enters them. Gorbo really knows the lands and stops several times to whistle or snort or chortle or click or some other odd noise and most of the time he stops and talks briefly to various mammals. He speaks to foxes, squirrels, skunks and even deer. The party makes good time and the horses are doing fine. About a third of the march is down on foot leading the equines and all are muddy before the day is over.

He relates several tales of various marsh creatures. His favorite is the stories of the otter family he has befriended. They are larger than him and numerous. “They are very smart and clever. They have elaborate holes that make mine look like a hovel*. They are great fishers and great pranksters. Like me they are no friends to the muskrats and occasional goblin that wanders through. There was one time when I found mother otter in a goblin trap. She was calling for help and I gave three short whistles to let her know not to fear. I scurried off as fast as these ole legs would take me and rounded up the entire otter clan and my pups and Beast’s Pop. I came riding up the head of the oddest army you could imagine. We had the squirrels swiftly go in and scout ahead of us and then we charged in and subdued all the goblins ‘fore they knew what hit them. Down went the big one swarmed by angry papa otter and five younger ones. I made short work of a stray goblin scout with my arrows and the dogs dragged down 2 more. The amazing things is when one goblin almost got old granny otter who was just watching and 7 squirrels attacked the goblin and bought time for 3 otters and my pups to get there. … Yap good times.”

July 29th the weather is oppressing warm and humid. Some tempers get a little thin and the biting insects come out in larger numbers. It is so humid it feels as if it should be raining. Miron, Ghân, Gilraen and Gorbo find various plants to help during the day and Gilraen actually spends a good 30 minutes on one of the rides singing her song of Estë. At other times Gil-Gandel soothes frayed nerves with various songs on harp and flute. That night at 9pm with Miron, Gilraen, Elfstan and Mulligan on watch and Brownie in a tree the sound of something very large is heard charging in. The Dogs all begin barking loudly and the horse neigh in fear. Gorbo yells out “Werewolf coming. Light fires and use magic if you got it. Awake all awake, see to the horses.” Anca lets out a challenging growl that scares the nearby Hobbits in its intensity. Time is short, what do you do, sleepers are waking, most being only recently asleep. Armor would not be on in this case I am afraid the conditions are not suitable for anything but elven chain for sleeping. There is no hope of getting it on in time.





* technically the Hobbits and Dwarf thought Morbo’s hole did look like a hovel.

[NAF1138]

Armor would not be on in this case I am afraid the conditions are not suitable for anything but elven chain for sleeping. There is no hope of getting it on in time.



Grumble, I hate fighting without armour.

I have a handfull of silver bolts. (I think 5, am I right about that What Exit?, I don't have my notes here.)

I want to make sure I grab my shield and get to a vantage point where I can do the most damage with my bolts. Let me get as much of my armor on as I can once I get to that vantage point. I will continue to armour myself between vollys until I am out of bolts and then I will head in with my axe regardless of my state of armorment.

[What Exit?]

Gwaelur has 4 silver bolts, 10 +2 Bolts & 4 Mithril steel bolts that should never break. (each is +4 to hit/+8 damage) There will be no time to do more than load the Crossbow and gather up shield and weapons.

[NAF1138]

Gwaelur has 4 silver bolts, 10 +2 Bolts & 4 Mithril steel bolts that should never break. (each is +4 to hit/+8 damage) There will be no time to do more than load the Crossbow and gather up shield and weapons.

Damn, well is there a large rock or something for me to take cover behind at least?

If not, I will grab my sheild fire the silver bolts (with my +2) xbow, as close to the buggers heart as I can manage, and then flank while I reload, Fire again and then try to dance away to allow others to hit him with projectiles. THEN I will go in with my axe.

Question: IIRC When I bought them you told me the silver bolts would do a good deal of damage on werewolves. Do they not do more than the +2 bolts or the Mithril?

Here's hoping I hit.

[What Exit?]

The Mithril (True Silver) Bolts will do the most. Non-silver will barely hurt at all if at all. The +2 arrows you are not sure about.

[glee]

Will Summon Insects affect it?

if so, Ghân starts with that (using his Scarab bonus for best effect).

Otherwise he will use Entangle. Even if it traps some of our party as well, provided it stops the werewolf attacking, then it's worth doing.

Ghân will command Anca and Fang to protect himself (and Deor / Gilraen, assuming they are close to him). Ghân needs these blockers to stop his spells being interrupted.

DM, can Ghân sleep in his wooden armour?

[What Exit?]

Summon insects will be useless, Entangle will at least slow it down and ight stop it if you are lucky. Ghân can sleep in his willow bark jerkin, it is soft and supple.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan will use his sling and silver bullets as soon as he sees it. Unfortunately, he and Miron are probably the best armored at the moment. It may come to them to buy some time for the rest. Sigh! Let's hope the missles stop it first!

[Elendil's Heir]

Coming awake as quickly as he can, his heart pounding, Thoroncir grabs his shield and longsword and gets between Gilraen and wherever the werewolf seems to be.

[NAF1138]

The Mithril (True Silver) Bolts will do the most. Non-silver will barely hurt at all if at all. The +2 arrows you are not sure about.

Ok, let's go with the Mithril first. That's why I have them. Switch to the other silver bolts when the Mithril run out, but try to get at least 3 volley's in before I go in with the axe.

I had best use the magic axe I suppose. (What would my stats against this guy be with the magic axe? Is it even worth the risk?)

[appleciders]

Snapping awake more quickly than is usual for such a heavy sleeper, Deor readies himself, his staff, and his materials pouches. Web is the only spell Deor can think of that's likely to affect such a beast, so he'll give it a try. He'll also use Shield if he gets a chance to cast before the werewolf is in easy range. If Web fails, Deor will bring up Magic Missile and stay back by Ghan, Lorliana, Gilraen, and the dogs.

[Omi no Kami]

Assuming he has time Miron will attempt to flank in the opposite direction that Gwaelur is traveling, firing his silver arrows and hoping that taking projectiles from multiple directions will confuse the critter enough to keep it from focusing on any single party member.

[Malacandra]

Ah, the benefits of relying on a high Dex and a couple of good items assert themselves.

I have my bow ready and I seem to be well-stocked with silver and magic arrows. If by chance I should recall any lore concerning ngaurhoth I shall be sure to pass it on.

[CatInASuit]

<oog> Sorry for not being around for the last couple of days, it's been busy <oog>

Mulligan has her sling and +2 silver bullets at the ready. Hopefully they will have the same effect on a Werewolf as they did on the Wargs.

[What Exit?]

Ghân tosses up a quick entangle and calls back the dogs.
Morbo goes up a tree very fast.
Gwaelur loads his magic crossbow with his two very magic Mithril Bolts and looks for the werewolf.
Deor is ready to toss a web spell as soon as he sees the monster.
Gilraen begins her song of Estë song immediately and has her bauble glower softly.
Thoroncir has shield and sword and is ready to protect Gilraen and others.
Elfstan & Mulligan are ready with their slings.
Miron & Gil-Gandel have bows and arrows ready.
Lorliana is hiding behind the spellcasters.
Curunauth has his sword out and a long knife that the party had not seen before. He stands guard on the left flank of the spellcasters.
The three dogs form a line in front of the spellcasters.

Morbo swears out an expletive and drops out of the tree to see to the horses. He calls for help. Lorliana tries to assist.

The Werewolf crashes through the greenery and hits the entangle. It slows him down.
Deor throws a web over him as Gilraen’s bauble throws brilliant light on him making him easy to see and hopefully hard for him to see.
Gil-Gandel fires 3 +1silver dwarf arrows and hits twice for 14.
Miron fires 3 arrows but none seem to bight the wolf.
Gwaelur fires and both bolts hit. He does an amazing 32 points.
Mulligan’s bullets hit twice exploding for a more amazing 52 points.
Elfstan’s +1 silver bullets strike once for 10 more and his second bullet goes astray.

The wolf rips through the webs like they are nothing and he makes it through the entangle. Anca leaps at him and as the werewolf reacts, Curunauth is in with his long knife and stabs the ngaurhoth through completing the job started so well by the missile users.

The werewolf lies dead!

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan will resume his watch to make sure nothing else is coming.

[NAF1138]

Gwaelur is going to recover his bolts. Then get dressed.


Also, hot damn we do quick work

[CatInASuit]

Not bad at all, I guess.

I think I will go help calm the horses down.

[What Exit?]

Mulligan realizes the horses are panicked and Gorbo and Lorliana are not up to the job. She recalls hearing Gorbo yell out "see to the horses" when he gave cry of the werewolf coming in. Several have already run off and one of Gwaelur's pony may have injured itself. Lorliana is hanging onto one of her horses, the one from Uncle Aldor. Morbo has his own pony and someone else's and looks fearful for the horses. It is chaos among the equines.

[Malacandra]

Gwaelur is going to recover his bolts. Then get dressed.


Also, hot damn we do quick work

I'll see you that and raise you a "What, it took 108 hit points and was still going?" :eek: That would put a 1st Ed huge ancient red dragon down with room to spare.

Horse-whisperers, do your stuff - and if my brave Cúran will set a good example...

[appleciders]

With the immediate crisis averted, Deor will work to calm and secure the horses who are still here and then work to build up the fire, using spells where it helps. He'll get Folca up in the highest trees around to keep an eye out for approaching enemies, too.

Let's make a point of sticking together if we leave camp this time, hmm?

[What Exit?]

Gil-Gandel and Gilraen have the best chance of herding the horses up. Gilraen should bring either Ghân or Thoroncir with her though. Gil-Gandel should bring a Hobbit for extra protection.

[Elendil's Heir]

Thoroncir is a little disappointed that he was not able to land a blow against the evil creature. But he will quickly don his armor, see that the others have made the camp secure, and then accompany Gilraen as she tries to retrieve the horses. "Are there likely to be any other werewolves out there, Gorbo?" he asks the swamp-Hobbit as they leave.

Does the slain werewolf revert to the form of a Man (or any other of the Free Peoples)?

And was Seafoam one of the horses which bolted?

[What Exit?]

As Gil-Gandel can tell you, the were-wolves are not shape changers like Beornings or Selkies. They are vast giant wolves of evil heart and natures dating back like the vampires to Melkor himself.

As you quickly don your chain, you realize Seafoam is one that stayed. He is a good well train war horse.

Miron's Riding horse, one of Gwaelur's ponies, Lorliana's riding horse from Minas Tirith & Scout are the ones that left.

Gorbo, "The werewolves are usually solitary unless they have a pack of wargs with them. In fact I did not think there was more than one of these monsters about. I would be wary of wargs in the meantime."

Ghân and the dogs, Gilraen's song from Kali’s back and Gil-Gandel on Cúran have the remaining horses calmed down.


Curunauth looks over his knife as he cuts out the arrows and bolts to salvage what the party can. He requests a large fire be built and he would like to have Gwaelur help him. He needs to do some fast work on his knife.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan will volunteer to go with Gil-Gandel if needed.

[appleciders]

He requests a large fire be built

Deor has some skill with fires- he'll build a roaring one for light and comfort, as well as a small, hot one with lots of coals. He'll also endeavor to leave a few long, strong sticks with one end in the fire and one well out of it, making easy torches should anyone need them.

[What Exit?]

The party splits in two, The very fast horses ride out with Gil-Gandel & Elfstan on Cúran and Gilraen and a confused but not too unhappy Thoroncir. He is confused as to how to hold on to her in a way that would not be to forward but insure he does not fall off and of course at the same time he is nearly overwhelmed by sitting so close to her and actually holding on to her and hoping he does not embarrass himself by falling off and wait we need to find the horses and bring them back and wait what did Gilraen just say, oh yeah, I am along as I can talk to horses and I should be calling for them. Oh that wasn't Gilraen was that, it was actually Elfstan or Mulligan, what is that strange sound in my ears. Right Elfstan is here not Mulligan and I think that sound is my heart beating too swiftly. Count slowly to ten and calm down. 1..2...3....4.....5......6.....7.....8.....9......10 ahhh.

He pulls himself together and calls to the horses that all is safer and it is safer with the party (herd) than out here where the wargs might be.


Deor gets a goodly fire going and with Gwaelur's help, Curunauth adds some special fuel that with Gwaelur's small bellows gets nice blue flames going. Gwaelur is sad to say that at the moment his anvil is running loose. Ghân is tending Gwaelur's remaining Pony. Gorbo is trying to watch everywhere and telling Lorliana and then Deor what to do.

[Elendil's Heir]

Very funny. You made my day, What Exit? :D

Thoroncir rides on, peering through the gloomy forest and calling to the horses. He feels a delightfully contradictory sense of both unease and elation at having Gilraen so close at, er, um, hand.

[NAF1138]

Curunauth looks over his knife as he cuts out the arrows and bolts to salvage what the party can. He requests a large fire be built and he would like to have Gwaelur help him. He needs to do some fast work on his knife.


Never mind, I see that I am helping already.

[What Exit?]

Very funny. You made my day, What Exit? :D

Thoroncir rides on, peering through the gloomy forest and calling to the horses. He feels a delightfully contradictory sense of both unease and elation at having Gilraen so close at, er, um, hand.
It helps if as you read that, you read the words faster and faster like a panic attack. Then read the numbers as getting slower and then steadier. Hopefully I conveyed that.

Sorry NAF1138, I just assumed that Gwaelur would be happy to help.

[NAF1138]

Sorry NAF1138, I just assumed that Gwaelur would be happy to help.

He was, and I posted to that effect then noticed there was more on the page. Not a thing.

[Omi no Kami]

When Gorbo seems to have a spare split-second, Miron will quietly step close enough to the hobbit to harshly whisper "What should I be doing? I would usually check the perimeter or scout for any remaining enemies, but I get the feeling that an individual probably shouldn't leave the immediate comforts of a nice, toasty conflagration."

[What Exit?]

Gorbo, "Eh? Oh, I umm guess you should use those sharp eyes and ears to keep alert. Be ready for wargs. Fenrig doesn't smell any but with the nasty stench werewolf death it would be masked anyway. We should probably start digging a grave. I think the dogs can do much of it. Personally I'm worried and a bit sick. If I had been alone Beast would be dead and I might be stuck in a tree for a long time."

[What Exit?]

First found of the equines is Gwaelur’s Pony. It is busy munching away on some tasty looking flowers. Thoroncir tells him, “stay put, we’ll be back”. Kali calls out for the horses and the group is happy to hear Scout and Miron’s horse call back. They continue calling for Lorliana’s horse. There is still no reply. This might become a job for the trackers. Gil-Gandel decides to send Gilraen and Thoroncir back with the three found. Thoroncir rides Scout back. Gil-Gandel continues with Elfstan looking for the missing horse. He gives up after another half hour. He has found no signs of the horse.

Nearly an hour passes at the camp before Gil-Gandel returns. No wargs have struck.

Curunauth has been working with Gwaelur*. He explains, "I am using the fresh blood of this foul beast to complete my long enchantment on this blade. This knife shall now be a wolf's bane. That is evil wolves of course glancing to Ghân and Fang. Using this part of the brain and this odd bit of guts it should detect the presence of evil wargs and werewolves. Though I won't know how well for a long time. I expect to see a greenish glow rather than blue. I'll be at this the rest of the night. It is something similar I will be doing to Thoroncir's blade. Speaking of which, bring it over and I will begin some basic work on it.”


* The anvil was of course in the camp. It would not be on the pony at night. My silly mistake.

[Malacandra]

This is where I make a mental note to stand Curunauth a stoup or two of good wine when we reach Imladris, and listen very carefully to anything he might have to say about manufacturing yew bowstaves.

[Elendil's Heir]

Sir Thoroncir will turn over his Numenorean blade to Curunauth, and asks to borrow one of Gil-Gandel's or Miron's spare swords, just in case the party is once again attacked during the night. If anyone (particularly our spellcasters) wishes to go back to sleep, he will stand the next watch.

[appleciders]

Deor would like to get back to sleep, now that the excitement's over. He watches with interest, though, as Curunauth weaves his magics into the sword and knife.

[Malacandra]

Here, Thoroncir, have my long sword - I don't seem to use it much. I have my shortie for emergencies (and can flame it if necessary).

[What Exit?]

Curunauth, "Good Thoroncir, stand watch over here and help me out. Use my Long sword for now, it is quite a bit better than yours currently anyway. I'll have both yours and my long knife handy and red hot as a bonus. You should be involved in the re-forging process anyway for best results."

Lorliana, "Curunauth, may we call you Curu? You may call me Lorli my brothers do. Can you tell us more about the forging techniques and those you have studied?"

Curu, "Curu is fine Lorli. I knew a pretty Elf maid names Lorli years ago. She left and went over the sea though before any of you in this party were born."

He spends the night talking about his craft and the techniques of Gondolin and Eregion or Hollin (http://www.tuckborough.net/lands.html#Eregion).


Does the party wait for daylight for tracking the stray horse or right it off or attempt to send Miron and Ghân out now at 3am?

[Malacandra]

Does the party wait for daylight for tracking the stray horse or right it off or attempt to send Miron and Ghân out now at 3am?

Could Brownie take a cast about and see if there's any sign of the stray?

[appleciders]

Does the party wait for daylight for tracking the stray horse or right it off or attempt to send Miron and Ghân out now at 3am?

I'm sure if Deor were awake, he'd vote for waiting 'til the morning for any serious tracking. Folca will be able to give us a big advantage if we do. Still, there's a risk that we'll lose the horse if we do, either due to it getting lost or possibly eaten. But after the last time we sent people out at night away from camp straight after an attack, I'm quite skeptical of the notion.

[glee]

Ghân is comfortable asking Brownie to look for the missing horse.
He warns Brownie to be aware that wargs may be about....

[What Exit?]

Brownie will search and he will stay out of reach of any wargs.

Brownie returns after 45 minutes. He has found the horse but it has fallen into a deep gully and it is injured badly.

In talking to Ghân they determine that the gully is about 30 minutes away. The horse but have been in a full gallop.

[Elendil's Heir]

Hmmm. Thoroncir is willing to try to go and recover the horse. If it can't be healed, it should be put down to end its suffering. If healable, we'll need either lots of rope or a levitation spell to get it out of the gully, I expect.

[Malacandra]

We'd better all go - we would be far too widely separated otherwise. I expect a horse will be too heavy to levitate, though, so better hope we don't need it.

[appleciders]

We'd better all go - we would be far too widely separated otherwise. I expect a horse will be too heavy to levitate, though, so better hope we don't need it.
You never know- it might even just take a few hundred pounds of the horse's legs and let it walk out. Healing it at the bottom might even be enough to let it walk out.

[RogueRacer]

As Elfstan prepares Flower to leave camp, he praises her for being a smart pony and not running off.

[Elendil's Heir]

Sir Thoroncir will similarly commend Seafoam for his steadfastness when the werewolf attacked. He will help to break camp, smiling from time to time as he recalls sharing a horseback ride with the princess that night.

[What Exit?]

Gorbo checks his pack. "I've got a small set of blocks, lots of good strong rope and a few decades of rigging experience. We'll get the horse out. I don't know what a levitate spell is, but we'll get the horse back with or without magic."

The party packs up and heads out. Gorbo says this is the time for Magic Balls and Lanterns and any other sources of light. This land is no place to be taking horses without good light. Gilraen gets her Bauble glowing bright and moves near the two trackers with Thoroncir riding close behind. Lanterns are all lit but Gil-Gandel and Cúran stay further back not needing the light.

The party makes it way following Brownie to the horse. The archers and slingers go on full alert and Ghân, Lorliana, Gilraen and Thoroncir go down heal the horse.

Gorbo begins surveying the area for the easiest way to get the horse back up. Gwaelur and Curu assist in the rigging.


Good news, Ghân says the horse can be rescued. He casts a cure light with Gilraen's help and they apply healing poultices and a temporary split to the front left leg. Using the blocks and the Ponies they haul the horse up and out of the ravine. It is now after midnight. Might as well move a short distance and set a new camp and plan a late start.


At 3 am with Thoroncir, Gwaelur and Gil-Gandel on watch Fang bark fiercely and Seafoam whinnies out "Warg!" for Thoroncir to understand.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan rolls over fitfully in his sleep as a barking dog enters his dreams.

[Elendil's Heir]

Thoroncir will grasp his sword and shield, and pass the warning along to Gil-Gandel and Gwaelur. He urgently asks Seafoam where the warg is, and if it's just prowling or coming in for an attack.

[glee]

When Ghân wakes up, he will see if Brownie (usually awake all night) can add anything.

DM, Is the area suitable for Entangle?

[CatInASuit]

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz......

[Omi no Kami]

Miron will make sure his armor is well-settled, check his supply of +1 arrows, and wait until he has better word on the critter's direction before position himself to provide fire and (if necessary) overwatch.

[What Exit?]

Miron does wake up to Fang's bark as does Ghân, Curu and Elfstan. Mulligan is sleeping deeply at this point. The area is very suitable for entangles.

Ghân dispatches Brownie who was resting to take a look.

[RogueRacer]

In Elfstan's dream of barking dogs, they suddenly turn into wargs. He awakes with a start and sees the others stirring.

Whispered to Ghân, "can you tell what he is barking at?"

Would Curunauth still be awake working on his sword? I sure hope we didn't leave him at the other camp!

[What Exit?]

Curunauth had finished up only an hour ago. He was a bit put out that he had to stop what he was doing before but understood the horse took priority. He then resumed for a couple hours at the new camp.

[Elendil's Heir]

...He urgently asks Seafoam where the warg is, and if it's just prowling or coming in for an attack.

Can the horse give the knight any more detail?

[What Exit?]

The animals think that it is many and from more than one direction.

Brownie reports back dark shapes moving around over 200 yards out currently.


Many party members are still asleep.

[glee]

Did Ghân understand Seafoam?

If either Seafoam, Fang or Brownie tell Ghân anything, he'll pass it on to the rest of the party.
Whilst staying alert, he'll wake Anca and Mulligan.
If anything invades the camp, Ghân will Entangle it.

[What Exit?]

Ghân is doing well in understanding equines in general, but nowhere near as well as his animal friends. However the Warg part was easy and the three dogs and multiple horse seem to be in agreement making it much easier to interpret Seafoam.

[CatInASuit]

Having been awoken, Mulligan will start quietly waking up the other sleeping party members and also make sure her sling and bullets are ready.

[NAF1138]

Gwaelur reloads his bow and wakes up anyone who happens to be nearby but sleeping.

"Sorry, but it's sleep and die or wake up and fight. Come on now, we have wargs heading our way!"

[What Exit?]

The party is woken, Brownie says the wargs are still out there circling. Brownie thinks a few more have shown up.

Curunauth says, "Perhaps a few quick forays by us three elves to disrupt their plans a bit. I have my sword and knife and you two have your excellent bows." He pauses gazing at his knife. "Hmmm, it appears that 200 yards is beyond the glowing of my knife. I am eager to find out what the actual range is."

[appleciders]

Once awake, Deor will prepare to cover our flanks with Web and try to keep Gilraen, Lorliana, and Ghan in a defensible place.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan checks his weapons and makes sure he is ready.

Should we build up a fire? Who would be best at keeping the horses calm?

[glee]

Ghân will cast Speak to Animals and tell the party horses not to panic or flee. We will protect them if they stay with us.

Given that Ghân has several 1st level spell slots spare, he will notify the party, then begin forming a defensive barrier of Entangles around the camp.
(This should cut down both on Wargs entering and horses fleeing....)

[Malacandra]

The party is woken, Brownie says the wargs are still out there circling. Brownie thinks a few more have shown up.

Curunauth says, "Perhaps a few quick forays by us three elves to disrupt their plans a bit. I have my sword and knife and you two have your excellent bows." He pauses gazing at his knife. "Hmmm, it appears that 200 yards is beyond the glowing of my knife. I am eager to find out what the actual range is."

"There are times for fact-finding and times for sitting tight until we know what the enemy numbers and disposition are. I call this one of the latter times - I have few fears of being spotted by wargs, but more of their noses.

"By all means prepare a fire - wargs have no love of it. Now that Ghân has spoken to our horses we can hope that the steadier ones will help to keep the others calm."

[Elendil's Heir]

I presume the party picked defensible ground, as always, for making camp overnight. Thoroncir reassures the horses, as needed. He will initially be ready with his strongbow if any targets present themselves; he will resort to his longsword when and if the wargs get too close, and will of course keep Gilraen safe behind him.

He agrees that the party's Elves ought to remain within our lines, at least for now.

[RogueRacer]

If there is a fire going, Elfstan will build it up (using wood on hand). If there is no fire, he will get one going provided we have wood.

[What Exit?]

The fire gets built up. Brownie cannot count the numbers of swiftly moving shadowy shapes and Curu’s knife never begins to glow. This goes on for a good hour and even the horses settle down for the most part. This puts us past 4am and most of the party is dead on its feet. The wargs are still out there though. Brownie needs a rest and it is still two hours to dawn (Sunrise: 6:13am).

[Elendil's Heir]

Those are some damned patient wargs. :(

Maybe we should just stay put, resume our watch schedule, and let people rest in shifts? We'd be a lot more vulnerable if we were attacked when we were spread out along a marshy trail while tired.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan mutters, "It does make you wonder what they are waiting for?"

A few moments later he adds, "Maybe they're waiting for the werewolf that we killed. I sure hope they're not waiting for another one."

[CatInASuit]

Elfstan mutters, "It does make you wonder what they are waiting for?"

A few moments later he adds, "Maybe they're waiting for the werewolf that we killed. I sure hope they're not waiting for another one."
They are waiting until we are all tired out and unable to fight.

Elfstan, before you use that sword of yours, if you get a chance, use some of these. They have proved effective against Wargs already.

Mulligan hands across 6 of the +2 Silver bullets.

And....I'm sorry about the inn.

Wake me when they start.

[What Exit?]

Gilraen, "I think Mulligan is correct. I to will try to get some more sleep."

Curu, "I will remain awake the rest of the night. I really don't mine. Thoroncir, why don't you stand down but try to sleep in your chain."

[glee]

Once his Entangles have run out, Ghân will get some sleep. He asks Brownie if she can watch a little longer (as she does sleep during the day).

[RogueRacer]

They are waiting until we are all tired out and unable to fight.

Elfstan, before you use that sword of yours, if you get a chance, use some of these. They have proved effective against Wargs already.

Mulligan hands across 6 of the +2 Silver bullets.

And....I'm sorry about the inn.
Elfstan takes the special bullets and puts them in a pocket or pouch where they can be easily identified and grabbed.

"Thanks Mulligan. You are probably right, but the wargs are in for a rude surprise if they think they will find us unable to fight."

"Ummm... about that other business. We can sort that out sometime when we're not so tired or so surrounded by wargs. Please don't lose any sleep over it. We have too many other reasons to lose sleep."

[Elendil's Heir]

Thoroncir will try to get some sleep, uncomfortable as he is in chainmail, with his weapons and shield close at hand. He quietly suggests that Princess Gilraen try to rest, as well.

[appleciders]

After restudying his spent spells from earlier and preparing a couple new ones, Deor will catch a few winks.

1: Shield, Magic Missile, Burning Hands
2: Web, Invisibility

Who's on watch? The elves?

[Elendil's Heir]

Well, Curunauth did volunteer, but we were warned that he was of iffy reliability. Gil-Gandel or Miron, would you be good enough to take the (new) first watch with him?

[What Exit?]

July 30th
The three elves take the watch until sunrise. The Hobbits, especially Mulligan actually got a decent amount of sleep and take over for at least a few more hours. It will be a late start today. By 8 am, Gilraen is up and ready and Deor follows her shortly. At this point Deor can do some real scouting via Folca. They determine that it is but 6 wargs moving around the group. After observing for about 30 minutes, Deor sees that about every 10 minutes or so a fresh warg joins the circling and one heads off.

Gil-Gandel is well rested at this point having actually got some rest before the Werewolf arrived around 9pm.

Thoroncir and Gwaelur are sleeping particularly soundly. Ghân looks like he will awaken soon.

[CatInASuit]

Hmm, Mulligan is going to make a really aromatic, hearty breakfast on the campfire, ready for when everyone has woken up. The smell should also give the Wargs something to think about as well.

We could do with Folca following the Wargs back to whatever lair they have and finding out how many of them there are. Six Wargs is a small problem, twenty six could give us a serious problem.

[RogueRacer]

We could do with Folca following the Wargs back to whatever lair they have and finding out how many of them there are. Six Wargs is a small problem, twenty six could give us a serious problem.Elfstan nods in agreement to this while helping himself to some breakfast.

[appleciders]

"We haven't got the Dwarves with us this time, but maybe we could start building some defenses anyway. Ghan's hedge behind us had flaws but was still quite valuable, and I'll bet he can make it nearly impenetrable given time to prepare it. Gwaelur could cut some stakes to help mitigate a head-on charge, Web worked well against wargs last time, and I'll use Burning Hands as a last-ditch defense around the spellcasters if it comes to that."

Deor will also use Shield on himself (and Lorliana, if the range is "touch", not "self" to help get an extra edge on the wargs if they penetrate the lines. Folca, still Invisible, will do some scouting; those Wargs are way too organized. They must have a leader of some kind.

[Elendil's Heir]

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

:: smacks lips and wipes drool away; turns over and resumes snoring ::

[RogueRacer]

Having finished his first breakfast, Elfstan tries to see if he can spot any of the wargs as they circle the group.

"So, now that we have daylight and a falcon flying overhead to keep an eye on things, what's the chance of our archers making pincushions of these wargs?"

[NAF1138]

Gwaelur could cut some stakes to help mitigate a head-on charge,

Gwaelur would be more than happy to help cut stakes if he were awake. But he didn't sleep last night, so is catching some zzz's now. You might want to let him sleep a bit so he is fresh for battle. Maybe not. Gwaelur is asleep and doesn't really know the dangers the party is facing.

[What Exit?]

What the wargs did not plan for was the invisible eye in the sky. Folca and thus Deor follow a warg back about ½ mile to where a large group of wargs wait and nap. There are 14 wargs here and of course 6 keeping the party on edge. 20 Wargs is a dangerous number.


Gorbo, "I'm sorry about this. I never seen nothing like this. I'd heard there was a werewolf somewhere around here, but the pack of wargs organized like this is not something I ever learned. I guess my swift path was not a safe path."

[RogueRacer]

So how far out are the circling wargs? It seems like it's time to start cutting their number.

Elfstan pulls Gil-Gandel aside for a few words.

[What Exit?]

The wargs are about 200 yards out.

[Elendil's Heir]

Just how smart are Tolkien's wargs, to the extent our PCs would understand it? I guess I always assumed they were about as smart as a wolf today (and are these the big, mean wolves of the books, incidentally, or the lizardlike critters of the movies?). These wargs seem very smart indeed, to be maintaining a continuous watch on the party for many hours, and having what appears to be a well-organized watch-and-sleep cycle. I have to wonder if some unseen evil mage is guiding them.

[RogueRacer]

As mentioned in the setup thread, please just ignore that PM that I sent to you, Malacandra.

With breakfast and daylight and the setup thread clearing his head, Elfstan remembers something he has read.

"The wargs that Old Bilbo wrote about in 'There and Back Again' could speak to each other. They set guards at the bottom of trees and tried to keep the dwarves confined until goblins could come to help. I guess it shouldn't surprise us that these wargs are taking turns watching us. It makes me think that we should do something before they can. They may have more evil creatures on the way to help them."

[Malacandra]

"Yes. Miron, Elfstan, Mulligan - let us prepare to sneak up on them."

I assume the wargs are downwind, the better to catch our scent. In that case, let us first take turns relieving ourselves to give them something more to smell*, and also add (without being too obvious) some greener wood to the fire, so that our scent will be less noticeable amid the "noise".

I make no apologies for indelicacy before the Princess. Any daughter of House Telcontar doubtless has a practical head on her shoulders.

We had better rouse Gwaelur, preferably with a hobbit-cooked breakfast ready. I'm sure he is hardy enough to stand being shorted a few hours sleep. Stand to, all.

[appleciders]

If we're discussing taking potshots, I wonder if we shouldn't make the most of our shots, even more than usual. Could Ghan cover our archer's arrows in the same paralyzing toxins he uses on his own darts?

[What Exit?]

I think I would like more specific instructions for this one. Who goes and who stays? Is it one group or more than one?

[Elendil's Heir]

Sir Thoroncir rises from his uneasy bed, yawns and scratches his chin, glad that everyone survived the night. After a hearty breakfast and with a smile from sweet Gilraen, he's ready for anything. If Gil-Gandel, Miron, Elfstan and Mulligan intend to sally forth against the wargs, the Sea-Knight (and Gwaelur, he trusts) will remain to protect the others.

[glee]

If we're discussing taking potshots, I wonder if we shouldn't make the most of our shots, even more than usual. Could Ghan cover our archer's arrows in the same paralyzing toxins he uses on his own darts?

I'm sure the DM has ruled he can't.

Once he has recovered his spells, Ghân offers to cover the Scouts when they retreat back to camp.

[CatInASuit]

My thoughts, their leader met a sticky end last night and they are unsure what to do next, although I am sure they would enjoy turning us into a meal.

20 Wargs is a problem though.

I think the best thing we can do is lessen their numbers and drive them off. If we can take them all out, so much the better, but that is quite the feat. I would guess that if they lost half their number, they would consider us a too much hard work to deal with and slink off elsewhere.

I will be sticking with the sling to deal with them, and I expect the washing up done by the time I get back. ;)

[What Exit?]

By about 9 am the party is up and armored and ready.

Curu is keeping his knife ready and Folca is still observing.

Gilraen requests that Miron send Swiftwing out on a higher and further scouting mission to look to see if the wargs have help coming.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan is ready to follow Gil-Gandel's lead. He will save the six bullets from Mulligan for times when he feels he has an excellent shot or if the situation is really dire. He doesn't want to waste them on a miss though.

[NAF1138]

Gwaelur is up and refreshed. He thanks everyone for letting him sleep in. He will be happy to take any tact that the party deems appropriate...as long as he gets to cut into at least one warg with his axes. :D

[appleciders]

Deor readies himself, keep a very close eye on the circling wargs, preparing to call out if the foray needs to run back.

[Malacandra]

The two hobbits and the two elves will advance slowly through cover, spacing themselves fifteen yards apart in a rough line abreast, Elfstan - me - Mulligan - Miron. We want to be just within optimum range with a clear shot to at least one warg. Meanwhile I want the rest of the party formed up ready to charge down in support. I'll hum a couple of short, distinctive tunes which will be the trumpet calls for "Scouts, rally to the main body" and "Main body, charge!" - let everyone take notice, if you hear my trumpet then move quickly and decisively. (If I can't trumpet for any reason, I'll ululate loudly instead. :D )

Once any scout has the desired line of sight, stop and wait one minute before opening fire. Any other scouts, on seeing the fall of shot (and hearing yelping wargs, I hope!) remain in cover holding your fire. You should be able to deduce who has opened fire and be ready to give him cover if he is spotted by the enemy. Ideally the wargs will get hit repeatedly from several different directions before they succeed in locating all of us - if you start to come under pressure, skid up a tree if there is one handy and you can make it, otherwise withdraw in good order and take any fire opportunities you get.

The rest of you, be ready to make the wargs very sorry if we succeed in goading them within range.

[Elendil's Heir]

Sounds like a plan. Thoroncir is ready, willing and able.

[glee]

Ghân will follow Gil-Gandel's plan precisely.

He will cast a Barkskin on his Armour, wait for the signal, then move swiftly to where he can then cast Entangle or Summon Insects.

He will Speak Animal to Anca and Fang, explaining precisely what to do (stay with the spellcasters, be alert for attacks).

He advises Deor and Gilraen to stay near him and his bodyguards.

[Omi no Kami]

I'm game. Miron is willing to act as impromptu meat shield if the wargs close faster than we're expecting, and so he tells both hobbits that they should feel free to jump behind him if a warg gets too close.

[NAF1138]

Sounds like a good plan to me.

I am looking forward to it.

[CatInASuit]

As long as we can get passed the circling wargs to the main bunch, silently of course, this sounds like fun.

[appleciders]

Figuring that the party well overmatches any given warg or pair of them, Deor will hold his fire until we're attacked by any large number of wargs.

[What Exit?]

The party is ready, the scouts move forward as quietly as possible. Folca is in air keeping a careful watch. In 3 minutes the scouts are in position and a warg approaches Miron. Miron takes the first shot at the surprised warg. He hits and does 11 points. His arrow is swiftly followed by a short yelp as Mulligan puts a normal bullet to hit and Gil-Gandel adds his own arrow. The warg drops. Miron’s second arrow ends its struggles.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Miron knows the dead warg will alert others coming in and moves 150’ to his right, signaling the others to follow. It appears the wargs missed the first short yelp. In about 3 minutes another warg lopes into the ambush. All four fire and Elfstan, Mulligan and Gil-Gandel all hit. The warg is up and starts barking out loudly. Miron’s second arrow does hit and it dies. In another three minutes two wargs come charging in Miron and Elfstan starts drilling one. They both hit and Miron hits again then Elfstan hits when it is only 12’ away and drops it. Miron’s third arrow ensures it stays down. Mulligan gets off a special bullet on the other for 28 and blows its head off. The first warg did bark out a loud warning though.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
More barks and howls can now be heard. Most from the direction where the 14 resting wargs are. Miron quickly calls out that at a run they can be on us in 3 rounds.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Back at the camp Curu says, “My Knife is glowing, some wargs approach.” Deor pulls Folca back swiftly to look for the incoming wargs.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
A single warg comes crashing in nearest Thoroncir. At a decent range he hits it with an arrow for 9. He then draws is sword and hoists his shield. Gilraen begins her song and works on calming the horses. Lorli has most of the horses that ran last time gathered behind her and she is on her Horse of Rohan. Gwaelur fires two of his mithril bolts and hits with both. The warg drops.

Another comes charging in but Curu and Thoroncir charge to meet it. The third comes from a direction closest to Ghân. He throws up and entangle and Gwaelur fires another pair into this one. He drops this one also. Gorbo hits it with a dart. Thoroncir strikes with his sword for 16 and Curu misses with his sword but hits with his knife for 14 more. It drops. Gilraen maintains her song.

[Elendil's Heir]

Heartened by Gilraen's song and relishing the experience of battle, as always, Thoroncir holds his longsword high. Elendil!

[Malacandra]

Hearing Gilraen's song, this is the time to play Scouts, rally to the main body and begin working my way back, watching out for the hobbits on either side. If too hard pressed for archery, I'll resort to the two swords and flame one or both* of them.

* I still don't know whether it's possible to flame both swords at once

[RogueRacer]

So, seven dead so far?

Elfstan hears Gil-Gandel's call and starts working his way back towards the main camp, trying to match pace with his captain.

[What Exit?]

The scouts pull back in good order. Folca flies out to find the wargs. Folca finds a main body of 10 flying in at great speed. Deor relays the information. The will be on the camp in 2 rounds. The scouts may be in trouble, but it sounds like Gil-Gandel has them pulling back in time.

Hopefully there are only 13 left in all.

[NAF1138]

. The will be on the camp in 2 rounds. The scouts may be in trouble, but it sounds like Gil-Gandel has them pulling back in time.

Hopefully there are only 13 left in all.

Ok, let's brace ourselves for the battle! There's only 10 of em charging and we know they are coming, we should be able to wipe them out. Watch out for the unaccounted wargs flanking us. We can not allow ourselves to be surrounded.

I will start with bolts as soon as they are in range, but keep my axe and shield handy.

Thoroncir, let's say you and I form a front line. Ghan, can you set up an entangle in thier path that the party can stay behind?

Deor, stay safe.

[What Exit?]

Curu to Gwaelur, "I'm with you as a third."

Gorbo, "I will do what I can from up here. My pup will help too." He says from a sturdy Oak branch 13' up.

Lorli will stay with the horses and mounted.

Gilraen is still singing.

[Malacandra]

With the wargs close, the scouts under pressure, and not least because it looks cool and allows me to get in a great quote :) I'll go to sword and flame on:

Naur an edraith ammen! Naur dan i ngaurhoth!

[What Exit?]

Gil-Gandel is happy to see that both of his swords flame. These will cause and extra d6 per hit and with wargs they will have a chance of setting them on fire.

[Malacandra]

Bring it, doggies. :D

[appleciders]

Deor will prepare to Web anything that gets through Ghan's Entangle, and stay a little ways back from the front line. Folca should keep an eye out for attempted flankers, too.

[CatInASuit]

I'll switch to the heavy duty bullets now and use them at range.

Time to explode some more Wargs.

[appleciders]

"Oh, and Gil-Gandel, look out- your swords will ignite my webs if they touch them, so be careful not to burn up our defenses! Or, if you feel ambitious, wait until there are several wargs caught in them, then light them up!"

[What Exit?]

Here is the map of the camp (http://s18.photobucket.com/albums/b127/jrfranchi/Castle%20Building/?action=view&current=BattleneartheHoarwellRiver.jpg).

I just need to know where the other two entangles are going if anyone wants specific locations.

The pale green pattern round pattern is the Entangle Ghân already cast.

[NAF1138]

Here is the map of the camp (http://s18.photobucket.com/albums/b127/jrfranchi/Castle%20Building/?action=view&current=BattleneartheHoarwellRiver.jpg).

I just need to know where the other two entangles are going if anyone wants specific locations.

The pale green pattern round pattern is the Entangle Ghân already cast.

My two cents (just in case no one else speaks up, as always Glee's own thoughts on the matter obviously overrule anything I am saying) would be to place one to our flank (by the "another dead wolf") and one directly between ourselves and the wargs, leaving small but usable escape gaps between the three and an easy emergency exit for the party if we must retreat as a group.

[glee]

Ghân takes Gwaelur's advice on where the other two Entangles go.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan will also use the explosive bullets shared by Mulligan.

[Elendil's Heir]

...Thoroncir, let's say you and I form a front line....

"My thinking exactly, my Dwarven friend," says the Sea-Knight, sheathing his sword for the moment and nocking another arrow in his strongbow. He grins. "The warg has not yet been spawned which can break a battle-line anchored by a Man of Gondor and a Dwarf of the Glittering Caves!"

Gilraen's song fills his ears and he peers through the woods, bracing himself for the arrival of the lupine foe.

[What Exit?]

A front line is formed by Gwaelur and Thoroncir supported by Gil-Gandel to Gwaelur's left and Curu to Thoroncir's right. Miron, Elfstan & Mulligan are ready with missile support.

As the lead warg charges in, Bolts and Arrows fly. He is injured and then stumbles into the entangle. The other 9 wargs slow down and stream around the entangle.

Deor finds a spot to snare three wargs in his web.

Elfstan hits the lead warg with a special bullet doing 20. Morbo hits another with a potentially deadly dart but it barely falters. Mulligan hits a third for 20. The first three injured wargs crash into the battle line with one healthy one.

Elfstan's & Morbo's charge at Gwaelur trying to shy away from the flaming swords. One hits high and one low but instead Gwaelur crushes one with his shield and slams it with his axe. He kills it but takes 8 from the other. Gil-Gandel hits this very injured wolf from the side but only hits with the short sword. However the warg is on fire and dies.

Thoroncir's Long Sword spikes the healthy warg for 18 and he blocks the hit.
Curu strikes with both blades as the warg bites him for 7/COLOR] . He killed the warg with his knife strike.

As one warg tries to avoid the web and entangle Mulligan hits it and kills it. Miron fires a +1 arrow at the tenth warg who was skirting the melee fight. He does 12. Elfstan misses the same one. Miron puts one more shot into it for another 10 and it falters. Morbo final dart drops the warg.

Deor gives warning that Folca has spotted two wargs coming in quietly from the east towards the horses. Ghân sets the three dogs between the casters and horses and the wargs and gets his final [COLOR="Blue"]entangle off to slow one and stop the other. The slow one starts to back off.

3 wargs are webbed and one injured and entangled up front. An injured one is trying to eat Thoroncir. Another Entangled nearing the Horses and one slowed and one unknown.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Morbo hits one trying to back out of the web and it begins to convulse and vomit.

Thoroncir hits and kills his warg.

Gil-Gandel lights the web up catching all three wargs on fire and pursues one of them overtaking it and killing it as it runs madly trying to put out the flames.

Gwaelur gets the entangled one as soon as it gets through the plants.

Curu purses the other flaming wolf and gets scratched for one but seriously injures it.

Miron fires on the slowed one by the horse as Ghân goes into the entangle to kill the one caught. Miron hits it 3 times and it dies.

Using normal bullets Elfstan hits the one on Curu and finishes it off.

The final warg charges for the horses from a rear gap but Lorli calls out warning and Mulligan gets off a special bullet doing 22. The warg bites Scout for 10 points but Kali kicks the warg to death.

[appleciders]

Deor looks sharp, keeping Folca well above the fight, scouting for more.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan checks the fallen wargs with trusts from Sting, making sure they are truly dead.

By my count, Elfstan only used two of Mulligan's special bullets, hitting with one and missing with the other. Would it work to use a detect magic to try to locate the one that missed? They seem to be very useful against wargs!

[Elendil's Heir]

Thoroncir draws a deep breath as the tide of battle recedes and the crisis passes. He now notices that the gallant warriors to either side of him are hurt, and calls out, "My lady, or Ghan, come, please, and see to Gwaelur's and Curunauth's wounds!" He sheathes his sword and again takes up his bow, ready in case any other wargs still lurk outside of the camp.

[appleciders]

Let's make sure that the horse gets proper treatment, too; he's probably the most fragile of all our injured.

[Omi no Kami]

Miron is happy to help with the horse and wounded: he isn't effective on his own, but he's gotten quite good at stabilizing people in anticipation of their visit with the friendly neighborhood- *cough* party cleric.

[glee]

Ghân works with Gilraen, using Cure Light Wounds on anyone who is down at least 5 and then Goodberries to mop up.

Once that's done he uses Detect Magic to look for the sling bullet.

Then he exchanges a smug look with Deor as another joint spell effort suceeds. ;)

DM, who is the third dog, please? (After Fang and Anca)

[What Exit?]

The third dog is Fenrig the companion of Gorbo. Mulligan hits with 3 of the special bullets and Elfstan with one and one is missing. A search with a Detect Magic should reveal it after the healing.

Gwaelur carefully cuts out his special Mithril bolts and ensures they are still fine. They are. Miron’s one +1 arrow was broken.

Ghân does a curelight on Scout and then Gilraen casts her own.
Miron does the first aid and triage on Curu & Gwaelur. He cleans and temporarily bandages and numbs the wounds.
Ghân cures Gwaelur for 6 and Gilraen cures Curunauth fully. Gwaelur gets two Goodberries and the party is fully healed.

In searching for the missing bullet, not only does Ghân find the bullet but also finds there is magic in one of the wargs.

Mulligan is down to only 12 special bullets I believe.

[CatInASuit]

I'll have to check how may of those special bullets I have left and buy my Uncle a present as well.

[Elendil's Heir]

Do our eyes in the sky see anything else of note?

[What Exit?]

I'll have to check how may of those special bullets I have left and buy my Uncle a present as well.
And find out where he got them. ;)


Folca sees nothing out of the ordinary and Swiftwing is still out on a long range scouting mission.

[Elendil's Heir]

Right, then! I say we pack up ASAP and, with Gorbo leading the way, move on. The sooner we can safely get to Rivendell, the better.

Is Lorliana showing any signs of emotional distress, or has she toughened up a bit since our last battle?

[What Exit?]

Lorliana is doing better than last time but then she had something to do this time at least. She was busy with the horses.

[RogueRacer]

With Ghân's help, Elfstan will find whatever magic thing was on the warg. He has plenty of knives if cutting is necessary.

He also returns the remaining special 5 bullets to Mulligan.

"Thank you! We have to get your uncle to tell us where he found those!"

[What Exit?]

With Elfstan doing the cutting, they find an arrow head. It is steel and finely pointed and slightly fluted. It has threads for easy attachment to a shaft.

Gil-Gandel looks it over and determines it is probably Noldorian.

Curunauth looks it over and believes that he himself made it and that this type was favored by Elladan and Elrohir. He says that it is roughly a +2 arrow head but penetrates heavy armor at a +3. (Chain Mail and above)He can advise on how to make a proper shaft for it.

[glee]

With Ghân's help, Elfstan will find whatever magic thing was on the warg.


Left a bit ... left a bit ... cut there! :eek:

[Malacandra]

We shall pull out from here but only travel a short distance today - what would normally be half a day's travelling over this going. We had an interrupted night and are short of rest, and though my own heart yearns for Imladris we should consider the safest and wisest way of getting there. I should not be surprised to learn that the Druedain had a saying to the effect that "the man who tries too hard to be quick sometimes finds that he does not reach his end as quickly as if he had been a little more careful, after all". :) So an early halt and a relaxed dinner should be just the thing.

And well fought again, everyone.

[glee]

I should not be surprised to learn that the Druedain had a saying to the effect that "the man who tries too hard to be quick sometimes finds that he does not reach his end as quickly as if he had been a little more careful, after all". :)

Ghân is very impressed that Gil-Gandel knows one of our Wose sayings - and word for word too. :cool:

[appleciders]

Then he exchanges a smug look with Deor as another joint spell effort suceeds. ;)


Deor grins back, and says aloud, "Well fought! Let's keep our guard up, though. The last thing we need is another surprise.

[RogueRacer]

Just as a note, I don't believe we've heard back from Swiftwing yet (who was on long range patrol).

Elfstan gives a low whistle of exclamation at Curu's description of the arrowhead.

"That was one lucky warg to have survived taking an arrow like that... well, up until today anyway. It was nice of it to save the arrowhead for us!"

As Elfstan prepares for travel, he will once again praise Flower for being a good, smart pony.

[What Exit?]

The party mounts up and begins their journey for the day. They keep an eye out for Swiftwing and after a rest Folca takes to the skies to look for Swiftwing.

After about another ½ hour Swiftwing returns and reports that there was another dozen wargs approaching in three groups from the North. They would be converging to where the party was and are hours away yet. He thinks Miron should go ambush the closest one and then return. There are only 4. Ghân and Deor realize that Swiftwing might have an inflated sense of Miron's prowess.

A reminder it is July 30th and the marching order. The first two exchange positions as needed.

Gorbo Fenrig Miron

Gwaelur
Gwaelur's pony
Deor
Thoroncir
Miron's pack horse
Gilraen
Scout
Ghan's dogs
Ghan
Elfstan
Curunauth
Lorliana
Lorliana's spare horse
Mulligan

Gil-Gandel

[RogueRacer]

We didn't do anything with the warg bodies. Considering the intelligence of the wargs, will fear of what could kill 20 of them overcome a possible desire for revenge?

Elfstan to the party, "Although I'm not sure about just sending Miron, maybe an ambush of some of the wargs would be worthwhile? If not, since they have the noses to find us, we might as well gather a lot of wood and build a big fire tonight."

[Elendil's Heir]

Sir Thoroncir says with a frown, "These wargs will surely track us and attack, upon finding the first, larger group slain, unless they decide that, having defeated so many others, we are too forbidding a foe for their liking. We should find a defensible position for making the early halt to the day's travels that Gil-Gandel suggested. Elfstan speaks aright. A large fire and, with Gwaelur's guidance, perhaps a stockade or fence would be wise."

[Malacandra]

With Swiftwing's aid, let us arrange to intercept the first party of wargs, and be on prepared ground of our own choosing by the time they arrive. Let them see a few of us with several horses, the spare mounts carrying packs of whatever we can rig up, and the rest of us shall remain hidden. They may believe themselves in for a free and hearty feed.

[What Exit?]

Thoroncir might even have a chance to use his Lance again.

So the entire party will meet the closest group but with which members in hiding?

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan volunteers to be one of the ambushers. He has steath and his sling. He also has a somewhat speedy, well armored mount if needed.

[appleciders]

Deor still has an Invisibility ready for any melee fighter who'd like to make an ambush. In any case, he'll be concealing himself in a tree for this fight.

[NAF1138]

It seems my lot in life is to be bait. I can soak up more damage than the rest, and will gladly volunteer for the job.

There are only 4 of them after all.

[CatInASuit]

It seems my lot in life is to be bait. I can soak up more damage than the rest, and will gladly volunteer for the job.

There are only 4 of them after all.The general idea is for them not to get as far as you. I look forward to making sure they don't. ;)

[Omi no Kami]

Miron is also eager to volunteer for the ambush party, as sneaking around whilst brandishing pointy and menacing objects is practically his job description.

[glee]

Ghân is happy to be visible, leading his horse.
His wooden armour is tougher than it looks and he can cast spells at Wargs whilst calming all the horses.

[Elendil's Heir]

If the woods are thick enough to keep the wargs from seeing him, Thoroncir will remain mounted and concealed, ready to ride them down with his lance.

[glee]

If the woods are thick enough to keep the wargs from seeing him, Thoroncir will remain mounted and concealed, ready to ride them down with his lance.

That's some woods there, friend. ;)
The trees are close enough together conceal an armoured Knight mounted on a heavy Warhorse, yet far enough apart that he can gallop forward and spear opponents with his lance. :eek::confused:

[What Exit?]

This plan sound very disjointed. If the party is riding along then thoughts of hiding in a tree should be out. If the woods are thick enough that you are riding through to completely obscure Thoroncir, forget about lance work. I still don’t know who will be in the main body and who will not.

Gorbo, “Let me know, I can get you to several terrains for this encounter. Do you wanted a clearing with the party on a lunch break with a lightly wooded hilltop above? Do you want heavy woods? That would seem to favor the wargs except for your magics. Do you want marshy ground? Or something else?”

Curu volunteers, "If you want to go with a rest in a clearing, Gwaelur and I can do a bit of forging and hammering and take care of both horse shoes and make enough noise that the wargs could not miss us."

Gilraen, "Deor, if anyone should be invisible, it might as well be you. You might not even need to cast an offensive spell."

[Elendil's Heir]

That's some woods there, friend. ;)
The trees are close enough together conceal an armoured Knight mounted on a heavy Warhorse, yet far enough apart that he can gallop forward and spear opponents with his lance. :eek::confused:

I meant a grove, a thicker cluster of trees among the rest of the woods, if the rest is open enough for lancework, as What Exit? had earlier suggested. But if that's not possible, or if it would be better for Thoroncir to just be out in the open as part of the bait, that's OK, too.

And glee, he has a light and not a heavy warhorse.

[What Exit?]

I'm just waiting for a final plan. Ride them down, lure them in or something else? Who waits in ambush, who are the decoys, who acts as outriders?

[glee]

I meant a grove, a thicker cluster of trees among the rest of the woods, if the rest is open enough for lancework, as What Exit? had earlier suggested. But if that's not possible, or if it would be better for Thoroncir to just be out in the open as part of the bait, that's OK, too.

And glee, he has a light and not a heavy warhorse.

No offence was intended - it just puzzled me.

Ghân repeats that he (and his canine bodyguards) will stay with the horses (calming them) and cast spells at Wargs as they attack him.
He hopes Deor still has offensive spells left, which means Gilraen the healer should get the Invisibility.

[RogueRacer]

Elfstan seems well suited to wait in ambush. As far as the final plan, I'll leave that to Malacandra.

[NAF1138]

Let's try this.

I will be the decoy.

Everyone else waits in ambush.

I will make myself look like a single traveler on the road. Easy pickings for some Wargs.

Now can someone find us a good ambush point?

[glee]

Let's try this.

I will be the decoy.

Everyone else waits in ambush.

I will make myself look like a single traveler on the road. Easy pickings for some Wargs.

Now can someone find us a good ambush point?

What are we going to do with the horses and the travellers?
Won't the Wargs smell the horses and choose them in preference?

[NAF1138]

Good point, Ghan.

Would anyone like to joing me in being bait, maybe you Ghan? We could keep a couple of horses with us and you can keep them calm while the others set up the attack.


And now that I have said that, it sounds like a really stupid plan. :smack:

Hang on, I will think of something.

[appleciders]

Lunch break in a clearing sounds best to me; the bigger the clearing the better, since it'll give our archers better range. Deor won't be invisible, he'll be a tree, well out of the way. We already know that aargs aren't much for climbing. Besides, most of his offensive spells are Sleep, too weak for a warg. Magic Missile is about the only one that will do damage, other than Web, which isn't very useful in a clearing!

[Elendil's Heir]

That could work. Thoroncir could be mounted, lance in hand (gauntlet), in the shadows and far enough back from the clearing that the wargs wouldn't see him. At a gallop after he hears the first clash of battle, he can make up the distance in short order, however.

[Elendil's Heir]

...We already know that aargs aren't much for climbing....

To say nothing of wargs. ;)

glee, no worries. It did look kinda silly, now that I read it.

[appleciders]

That could work. Thoroncir could be mounted, lance in hand (gauntlet), in the shadows and far enough back from the clearing that the wargs wouldn't see him. At a gallop after he hears the first clash of battle, he can make up the distance in short order, however.

Won't they smell you? I can try to cover up a little of the smell with magic, but I really haven't got the right spells to do that properly.

Nothing like that is currently on my list of available cantrips, but is that a reasonable variation of Hide, Change, or Mute? Deor's willing to expend most of his store of cantrips for the day to get it right.

[appleciders]

To say nothing of wargs. ;)



Would you believe I actually made that change to fix a typo?

[Malacandra]

Let's find a nice grove of trees with enough room between them that clear shots aren't hard to find, with enough cover for those who aren't confident climbers to hide, and get the elves and hobbits into trees with ropes handy for a quick descent if needed. Then we can leave Gwaelur and Ghan in plain sight, Thoroncir and Gilraen in cover, and I would vote for putting our fellow-travellers safe up in a tree - we have plenty of time to get them there. Gorbo is probably happier hiding on the ground.

Then we should be able to bag ourselves some aargs (as I hope they'll be renaming themselves quite quickly).