DM Kathy Sunday January 21st, 2007 11:24:28 PM
[OOC: From the January 7th DM post:
Harvest casts her spell and is able to decipher some of the writing, although it is rough going even with magical help. The papers seem to belong to a mage named Ruasel, and contain notes on his magical research and a personal journal of sorts. The magical noes are particularly difficult to understand.
"Noes" should be "notes." :) ]
You all put your minds to it, but don't recall having heard the name "Ruasel" in any other context. Both Davros and Harvest do realize, though, that there are no written records of the Culverwood ever having extended this far north.
"You make a good point," Remo replies to Harvest. "It could be that Parnoth's reach exceeds his grasp. I hope it is no more than that." He shrugs. "But, his lifetime will vastly exceed ours. Perhaps this is a long-term plan whose end we will never see."
He goes on to explain the nature of his negotiations with Parnoth. At the behest of the council, Remo is attempting to work out a mutual non-agression pact between Parnoth and the communities of Cinnamon Valley. It is, Remo admits, a difficult negotiation, as Parnoth does not really fear aggression from the Valley. "It is more a matter of wanting to focus his forces on more troublesome spots," Remo says. "It is scant leverage, but I make of it what I can." He sighs. "And, with this find, he appears to be poised to press for more concessions. I foresee a difficult few weeks for me."
Ewan expresses her readiness to Arminas to find whatever he may need.
Florin spends a very pleasant evening eating supper with Ivy, as her father watches, smiling, from a discreet distance.
The night passes uneventfully, and the next morning the Jarlwolf contingent depart for home, and Remo and his escort ride back toward the Culverwood. The scholars are still with you, and continue with their work. The refugees go back to their routine of building, planting, and watching, but they are clearly uneasy.
Lorth Monday January 22nd, 2007 8:22:18 AM
Lorth bids Remo a safe trip and then continues with his daily patrols. He is glad to have a respite in fighting and uses this time to get his equipment into tip-top shape.
Any Monday January 22nd, 2007 8:32:10 AM
After seeing off Remo and the Jarlwolf group, Any goes back to his daily routine of guard duty, helping in the building process, and enjoying the beautiful area they are in. Each day he takes time to ride a different route around the infant village, learning the countryside better, the approaches to the village, and the resources available to the people here.
Around the fire, he continues work on his carving, and seems to be composing again with the aid of his new Lute.
Harvest Monday January 22nd, 2007 11:10:05 AM
Another day passes for Harvest Moon. As the presence of the room has taken on an import of a more political nature, she approaches the Elves of the Culverwood once more. Despite their aloofness, she presses her questions. It is always of interest to hear about the methods by which scholars paint a living picture from the bits and bats that live beyond the moment of events and into the future. But the Emerald Dragon's involvement brings an urgency to the matter, and Harvest repeatedly and most pointedly brings the discussion back to the authenticity of the site.
Arminas d20+17=35 d20+6=23 Monday January 22nd, 2007 5:01:29 PM
Arminas spends his time with Ewan scouting out a safe refuge if necessary. He searches the hills and valleys surrounding the area for a hidden spot.
Spot 35 Ewan's spot 23
ADM Robert Monday January 22nd, 2007 5:40:12 PM
Posting Report, a very good week, very good, particularly for non-combat.
Davros Monday January 22nd, 2007 7:51:52 PM
Davros continues to spend his time with the scholars, helping, studying, and maybe learning a few spells from Ruasel's spellbooks.
Florin Jadenth Tuesday January 23rd, 2007 12:03:49 AM
Florin sees Ivy and her father off and smiles, shaking her father's hand and kissing Ivy's cheek before wishing them both safe journeys and telling Ivy he looks foreward to when she can come visit again.
After both groups leave Florin will go about his watch also, spending time with the others and just keeping his ears open for anything of interest at the moment.
DM Kathy Tuesday January 23rd, 2007 12:57:26 AM
The departure of your visitors should herald a return to normal routine, but it does not. For one thing, the scholars are still there. For another, the refugees have seen and heard to much over the past few days. They are clearly uneasy, and go about their tasks in larger groups, as if seeking safety.
Harvest and Davros spend some time with the scholars. Most are difficult to get along with, but you are able to glean some information. As nearly as anyone can tell, the site is authentic. Ruasel, a wizard of some fame during his time, used the place as a refuge to escape those who (according to his writings) were contantly seeking his counsel. Ruasel would teleport himself to and from the chamber, and, based on his writings, nobody knew where he would disappear to. Much of the surviving writing proves to be Ruasel's personal journals, which contain little of magical theory. They are of more interest to historians. Davros is able to spend a few moments with some of the magical research notes, but the scholars guard these pretty closely, and they are difficult to decipher.
Arminas and Ewan work on scouting for a sanctuary. You don't find much amid the rolling hills and light forest. You do note a steep riverbank of loose rock and scree, which could foil pursuit for a time. You find several small bolt-holes, which could be used by a handful of people, but nothing large enough to shelter everyone. Farther afield, of course, there is Magpie Lake, and the towns of Magpie Crossing and Merrydale.
Florin bids farewell to Ivy, then spends the day with his friends. Any continues to work on his carving and play his lute, while Lorth takes the opportunity to practice and keep his equipment in shape.
You all believe you are done with visitors for the time being, which is why it is so strange to see the lone figure approaching camp, from the direction of Jarlwolf.
[OOC: Robert, feel free to start posting, and include a character description. Everybody else, feel free to include a character description with your post. We will introduce our other new player when his character is ready. :)]
Lily d20+8=16 Tuesday January 23rd, 2007 7:10:56 AM
The lone figure actually seems to get smaller as she walks nearer. Soon enough you realise she is a Halfling, though perhaps you assumed someone taller.
She walks towards the newly discovered room, and when challenged, replies in a pleasant and friendly manner. Diplomacy 16
"I'm just here to have a look. We've heard about this find in the Crescent Valley, and I'm sure my younger brother Julian would've come but I've not seen him since he came back from Plateau City. Actually, I've not seen him since Grigory, Till and Ponto gave him what for and left him in the Culverwood. Our brothers were... upset, that he'd lied to us about training in Plateau City. Still, as Papa said, 'At least he's not a rogue.' Ha!"
The little halfling seems not much more than a girl. She has a beautiful face, and it is hard to not believe her when she smiles with her clear green eyes and red lips. Lily's brown hair is long and curly, almost ringlets, under a quiky light-brown full-brimmed hat.
"Anyway, I thought there might be some opportunities here to earn an honest living. The poor elves being uprooted, then stumbling across a... a room, is it true? They found a room? Anyways, I thought I could help. I know I don't look all that useful at the moment, but I know a thing or two, about this and that."
Lily wears a long white tunic dress with a strong blue apron over. She sports a surprisingly heavy belt, and her pale green cloak does not hide her two swords, though the four daggers are not so apparent at first. A very fine quiver hangs from her belt, though she carries no bow. Over her cloak Lily wears her pack, and rolled and tied to this is leather armour made of small pieces of leather coloured like the autumnal forest. A well crafted, gilt even, buckler also hangs from the pack.
"There's another nasty rumour that the dr... that Parnoth is interested in the room. That doesn't bode well for the elves. I'd like to be able to lend a hand, perhaps keeping an eye out for trouble, on their behalf."
"I'm good at striking deals with people, or I can disappear into a crowd or a heath. And I enjoy a fight nearly as much as my brother Julian the Badger."
Lorth Tuesday January 23rd, 2007 7:27:57 AM
Lorth greets the newcomer warmly, "Well Met, I am Lorth Jeresosta, at your service." After this quick introduction Lorth goes back to his patrols, he is sure this quite talkative halfling will find her way around the village no problem.
Any d20+10=29 d20+9=21 Tuesday January 23rd, 2007 8:37:35 AM
Any spots the visitor (spot 29) as she is approaching the village site. He moves in a casual course to be present when she introduces herself.
"Greetings Miss Lily. My name is Anthos Westar, but most call me Any. Well met indeed. It seems that the tale of what we have found here has not been kept as secret as we thought, for not only has the tyrant Parnoth heard of it, but the message has reached the Crescent Valley.
Since you told about yourself, I suppoase we should do so in return. I am an entertainer of sorts, with songs and tales to enthrall old and young alike. We as a group have come to help keep this new village safe untill it is completed. So far that has not been a difficult task, but if the stories surrounding what has been found here continue to spread, that may change.
As far as your staying here to help, that is as much a decision of the village as it is for us. For my part, I would welcome any help we can receive."
Having said this, Any stands by listening, trying to get a handle on this new little lady.
Sense Motive 21
Harvest Tuesday January 23rd, 2007 10:36:08 AM
"I am Harvest Moon, Lily." The small human girl, possibly eighteen years of age from the look of her, gives greeting to the halfling from Crescent Valley. A brown crescent of hair arches over her forehead and down over one eye from the otherwise close cropped hair upon her head. Her hands are hidden within the bulky sleeves of the large oil-sealed, hooded coat making her appear even smaller than she is.
"Are you Lily the Badger as well?" Harvest asks from her place next to Anthos. "As is your brother Julian?"
Later, sitting for a quiet lunch with Anthos, Harvest Moon confides her thoughts upon the dilemma presented by the room.
"It has struck me, Anthos, that within the possible dangers and complications presented by the discovery of this room, that any acts that we may take toward resolve must come from out of the nature of our original charge." Harvest raises the brown bread in both hands and tears from the chewy crust of it. "That is to say, from the will of the elves. Should the elves think that it is best to leave, then they should do so soon as it will take time to find a locale for another town. And should their will be to remain, then we must think of ways in which to guard them from attacks both physical and political."
"But until we know which they choose, we cannot know how to proceed. I think we should ask them."
Bralin Tuesday January 23rd, 2007 4:20:58 PM
As is his custom, the dwarf clangs out to meet this newcomer. Bralin is encased in dull black plate, and carries a dull black shield. Both are unadorned. His bulbous nose and black, forked beard escape from his helm. A dwarven waraxe pokes up from his back, a warhammer hangs from his left side, a crossbow from his right, and a dagger is strapped to his chest.
He ain't no wizard.
Taking his cue from Any and Harvest, he raises a dirty hand. "Well met. I am Bralin Stoneminder."
He doesn't say another word, but remains in the area, waiting patiently for a sign that this halfling be accepted into the company or not.
Arminas Tuesday January 23rd, 2007 4:38:29 PM
Arminas wanders back toward the group, the goldens eagle soaring above.
"There is little hope of sheltering and hiding these elves unless we were to escape to Magpie Crossing or another town. While small groups could be hidden, I am afraid there is no place to hide so many."
Arminas then spots the small halfling woman.
"Well now, another visitor is it? I am Arminas Calaelen, scout and ranger. Do not worry about my friend up there, she prefers rabbits and things that don't seem quite so dangerous." glancing at the swords and daggers the halfling wears.
"Perhaps I missed something, do you travel alone through this land? There are many dangers about, so you may wish to find someone you trust to watch while you sleep."
Lily (2nd post, response) Tuesday January 23rd, 2007 6:10:43 PM
"Hello, Lorth Jeresota. I am Lily Bolger Newbury Pipewood Trufflefinder. Our family traditionaly finds truffles, and sells them. However, between the 12 of us kids, there's more workers than work to be done. I seek something, well, more fun."
"Any Westar, well met. I too love to sing, and to perform a sort of acrobatics routine that many enjoy, though usually no more than thrice. Will you teach me some songs?"
"Harvest Moon, lovely name, I really like it. Lily the Badger, no. That is Julian's own quirk. He once beat up dire badger bare handed, or so he says. I've been called Lily the Harlequin as I perform, and that's not so bad a name to have. I often wander about in disguise, so I have taken many names in my time."
"Bralin Stoneminder, hello. Could we add a little colour here? Please, I'm sorry for I jest. Perhaps, rather, we could share some ales some time soon?"
"Arminas Calaelan, greetings. I thank you for your concern. I generally travel alone, yes. I usually manage to avoid detection by most creatures, and can hide most anywhere. Is it unsafe here, in this fledgling village, that I need someone to watch over me?"
"Is there any chance I can peer into this room? Perhaps tomorrow... Shall I set up my tent, oh, I don't know, over here? Or more over there? Who should I talk to, amoungst the elves?"
Florin Jadenth Tuesday January 23rd, 2007 10:41:57 PM
Florin after his watch and everything moves to meet Lily also, "Hello there miss, my name is Florin Jadenth, a protector and servant of Domi and undeadhunter." Florin holds out his hand to Lily and smiles now being polite and well spoken.
Florin wears blueish tinted half-plate and has a mithril longsword at his left hip, the handle of which is silver and shaped like a dragon with it's wings as the guard and ruby chips for eyes. He carries the rest of his gear with him also which consists of his backpack, greatsword which hangs on his back and a bow with a pair of quivers attached to his backpack. Held under his arm that he doesn't have held out is a visor helmet of the same blueish tint. His eyes are ice blue in color and his hair is black and pulled back in a pony tail, showing his pointed ears. For a elf though Florin is heavily muscled, alittle to much so for most elves.
Davros Wednesday January 24th, 2007 12:05:39 AM
Upon hearing that there is yet another visitor to the elven town, Davros makes his way to meet the newcomer. He does not rush as his companions likely have already assessed any possible threat. On the way, he makes a mental note to tell the others that we should come up with some sort of checkpoint to gauge people before they stroll into the center of town.
As he approaches, Lily sees a young man, with a few years to go before approaching middle age. He is dressed well, favoring dark blue hues in his clothing, and carries himself as someone who has seen hard work, travel, and a bit of schooling in his time.
"Greetings to you. I am Davros Sapphiredge. As I listen to my companions, it seems that you, like others are interested in the find. I can probably help with what you need, but I only have limited access myself."
As he speaks, a well groomed rat sits on his shoulder, mimicing his every movement. For awhile you are not quite sure if the rat is controlling his actions, but then you see him scurry into the hood of his cloak for his midmorning nap.
DM Kathy Wednesday January 24th, 2007 12:34:17 AM
The strange little halfling called Lily meets a group of adventurers, who just may be as strange as she is.
A bewildered Tahlela surely thinks so, as she looks back and forth between Lily and the adventurers she knows, as if trying to work out whether this halfling is a security risk. Finally, she holds out a hand in greeting. "Welcome to Nuaithar-Windtree," she says. "I am Tahlela, one of the elders here." Lily sees a middle-aged elf woman in leather armor, a bow slung at her back.
"If I may ask," she continues, "what is your interest in our discovery?"
As she listens to the reply, Tahlela leads you all back toward the fire, where the evening meal is cooking. "You must at least join us for a meal," she says. Her mouth twists a little. "All those months in the refugee camp," she says to nobody in particular. "Nobody wanted to know us, or think about us. Now we have more visitors than we know what to do with." She sighs. "Because of a pile of gold and some musty papers."
Lorth Wednesday January 24th, 2007 7:38:20 AM
Lorth is fine with the newcomer prefering to give everyone a chance before judging them. He makes his way to the evening meal and has a good dinner.
Any Wednesday January 24th, 2007 8:34:31 AM
As Any and Harvest eat together, she suggests that there needs to be a clarification of the role the adventurer's are to play in this area. Will the elves remain, run, or what? Do we fortify, or prepare to leave.? It is a question that does need to be answered before things can continue. If Parnoth wants this land, the elves must decide if they will defend it, or leave it, else why continue this work?
Any lays the question out before the village elders, telling them to consider what they will do.
As for the newcomer, she seems pleasant, and sincere enough in her intentions, and an extra pair of eyes to watch, hands to work, and sword to guard would be welcome.
Harvest Wednesday January 24th, 2007 10:26:32 AM
The evening meal this night is a congregation. By Anthos' side is where Harvest Moon sits as he sounds out the wishes of the elves for their future.
Bralin Wednesday January 24th, 2007 5:17:37 PM
"My color suits me," Bralin replies innocently before Lily can share he was only jesting.
He nods in acceptance of this, moving his mental evaluation of the girl's personality closer to the 'Arminas' side of the scale.
The prospect of an ale or two elicits a more appreciative nod. "Aye," he answers.
The evening meal is ready, and Bralin has never been late to one yet. He moves into line.
Arminas Wednesday January 24th, 2007 10:00:32 PM
"Well Lily, a while back two dire bears attacked the elves, killing one and seriously wounding another. They would be difficult for one person alone to deal with. Perhaps though there is more of you than I imagined."
Arminas hears the call to dinner, and steps aside as Bralin moves into line.
Looking back at Lily, he adds:
"Never get between a dwarf and his dinner. There now, you are safer already." A grin spreads over Arminas' face.
Florin Jadenth Wednesday January 24th, 2007 11:38:45 PM
Florin chuckles some at his friend Bralin and moves to join him also as he looks to the others. He watches to see if anything new comes up during the meal but otherwise enjoys his meal and the relaxation time.
Davros Wednesday January 24th, 2007 11:49:15 PM
Davros joins the evening meal and thanks the elves as always for their hospitality. He grabs a few extra pieces of cheese for Whiskers and then sits near the others so that he can hear Lily's stories.
"As for the town's safety, I think we should consult with the elders soon. We have many ideas to give them, but the decisions are ultimately theirs."
After the meal, Davros retires early to the comfort of research and learning at Ruasel's room. Currently, he occupies himself with making an inventory of all the lesser alchemical and lab supplies present.
DM Kathy Thursday January 25th, 2007 12:36:29 AM
The elves gather for the evening meal. The elders are sober as they ponder Any's question.
"We have put so much work into this site," Sivaine says with a sigh. "To leave it...so soon after having left our homes in the Culverwood..."
"Better now than ten years from now," Tahlela replies briskly. "When we've formed attachments and put down roots." Her mouth twists. "Perhaps we should become nomads."
Firon shakes his head. "I do not think we should so lightly abandon all that we've built."
"If it comes to a fight," Tahlela counters, "we will lose. We cannot stand against the Tyrant, even at this distance."
"But we don't know for sure that he plans to take the place by force," Sivaine replies in a worried voice. She is twisting her hands restlessly.
"You should not abandon this place," Zalil puts in. "As I understand it, the humans hold sway here, and they gave you this land for a settlement. You should not give it up to the Tyrant."
"Surely that is our decision," Tahelea says curtly.
Zalil looks as if he is deciding whether to take offense, when Firon hastily puts in, "We should concentrate on building defenses." He looks at the other two elders, seeking their agreement. "We will not leave--at least, not yet--but will turn our attention to defensive structures. That way, perhaps, we will be able to hold what we have built."
"I agree," Tahlela says.
"Anyway," Sivaine adds. "Zalil has a point. The humans do control the valley, and we have their permission to build here. Not anywhere else, here. Relocating could cause problems with our neighbors."
Zalil snorts. "That was not my point."
"It is something to consider, though," Firon says. "Very well. We remain, for now, and concentrate on building defenses."
He turns to your group. "If you have any further thoughts on how we might best defend ourselves, please, do not keep them to yourselves. A time may come when we need every advantage."
Lily Thursday January 25th, 2007 3:20:54 AM
In response to Tahlela, Lily speaks with great respect, "I am, I guess, opportunistic. I can get into places, spots, and things where others cannot, where others dare not, and even where othere shouldn't. With such an unusual find I though my skills might be useful.
"At the very least, I thought there might be prospect of work. My 11 siblings cannot find enough truffles as it is, even with some of them adventuring for a living."
Lily accepts a small helping of dinner, "Nay, even this is a lot for me, for there isn't a lot of me. This might tide me over till tomorrow's dinner, and hopefuly by then I will have started to earn it. I thank you for this heartily." She smiles sincerely, and begins to blush with gratitude for what these elves can spare.
The idea of fortifying against a dragon leaves Lily quiet in contemplation for a while. "I think I know how my people, and perhaps Bralin's, would prepare for they are similar. But that is not the way of the elves. Perhaps a deal can struck. A one-off bargain rather than a continuing tribute. Tis but a thought for the moment."
Lorth Thursday January 25th, 2007 7:39:20 AM
Lorth is certainly not familiar with building defensive structures as he has never fought in a siege, so he keeps quiet. Perhaps Bralin will know something.
Any Thursday January 25th, 2007 8:50:01 AM
"The way elves would build and live with nature, and the way humans build to control nature, are two different attitudes towards how the defenses would be built. Humans would build a keep, or palisade, or some other type of fortification. I am not sure if any of those would suffice to stop Parnoth if he decided to come against you. I do not know how elves would fortify. My experience is that they do so by making their homes blend with their surroundings, but in this case, Parnoth already knows where you are. Perhaps your best hope would be to become less "interesting" to him.
I fear I am of no help to you in this instance. Perhaps the others will be more so."
He sits by Harvests side. Idly his hand reaches out and rests upon her shoulder as he listens to suggestions from the others.
Harvest d20+5=23 Thursday January 25th, 2007 10:25:24 AM
"A tree survives the storm because it knows when to stand and when to bend," Harvest Moon hears the voice of Pasix Mixmindor within her head even as she herself speaks them herself. "Perhaps we cannot stand against Parnoth, but defenses against lesser dangers are still worthy goals. Preparations that may have deterred the bears for instance, or alerted us to their approach sooner."
"I have been taught that one of the greatest defenses that one can have is awareness. With foreknowledge of a foe, one may gird a more proper defense. With such foreknowledge, one might even choose flight while it is still possible. A network of long distance communication would also grant much further vision of approaching dangers were we to set up watch post a distance from the town."
"I will attempt to draw a map of this area so that we may more readily envision where defenses, both physical obstructions and points of lookout, should best be placed." (Profession: Cartographer 23 /Untrained)
A comforting hand falls upon her shoulder, and her body, drawn to Anthos, leans to him of its own volition. "Will you walk with me?" she asks, looking up into his face.
Bralin Thursday January 25th, 2007 10:50:59 AM
Bralin perks right up at the question of defenses.
"Harvest is correct, knowledge of your attackers have much import."
He looks thoughtfully at the trees and Arminas.
"Platforms high in yon trees provide excellent line of sight from which to fire a bow or cast a spell. Build platforms that cover each other and provide cross cover of ground. Build walls...mayhap hedges?...to funnel attackers into those areas accessible by the greatest number of weapons - a killing field. If such can be done cleverly, so the attackers remain unaware that they are being funnelled, so much the better.
Also, ye need some method of escaping a tree, be it walkway or spell. Enemies will attempt to burn them or chop them down.
Finally, ye must know the number of your attackers. No village can withstand a dragon or an army. Ye should prepare defenses to repel the raids of several score enemy. Should their numbers be half again as many as your fighting force, ye will likely lose. Be prepared to flee in such a case.
Forward observation posts and warning systems will help keep ye aware of yon neighbors."
Arminas Thursday January 25th, 2007 6:01:26 PM
Arminas listens intently as Bralin talk of defenses. The dwarf may be stubborn and humorless, but he knows battle.
"Yes, I could help pick trees that are sturdy and tall. Platforms could be built so that they are not easily seen, and sentries could stay hidden. Perhaps I could speak with some of the small birds in the area. I think if we provide food at the platform, they will stay close by. In return, I think they may fly back to a designated spot in town with a warning message tied to a leg. It will take some training, but I think it can be done.
Escape could simply be tying a rope to an adjoining tree and swinging down. We could make the landing spot protected by pits on the side away from town. If someone were to chase the sentry, it would give a better chance of escape.
There are plants with mighty thorns. If we were to plant them in the right area, it would naturally move people into the direction we choose.
I think your plan has merit. If the elders agree, we should start right away."
Florin Jadenth Thursday January 25th, 2007 7:48:08 PM
Florin listens to what is said and then to the others listening to what is said before closing his eyes and speaking also, "The ideas of ground defenses and such along with walls is a good idea but you also must consider that is this dragon takes on the city itself then you will need something that can pierce it's hide which means something like a ballista or such. I'm sure if you seek out someone some engineers could help in that." Florin looks to the elders and smiles gently, "I'm trained for battle and protecting those who need it. If you like I will aid with this along with Bralin, between us I think we could see to your city being protected with some ideas. A detailed and planned defense will help, knowing where to have a couple entangle spells cast to keep a greater area held and such, archers in that area to pelt the enemy that are moving foreward and being held. In a ground battle your best bet is to hold the enemy, slow and weaken as much as you can before a direct fight, your looking to save lives in a battle and that is the best way. Keep face to face enounters as low as possible."
Florin looks to Lorth and the others before speaking again, "Also you should be making sure you have a decent enough people ready for actions, those who can be spared should train off and on, I believe there are those among us that can help train if needed in bow or in hand to hand, weapon to weapon and so on. It needs to be routine, automatic, when the bells ring people move to be ready."
Florin goes silent now, adding in his two cents. Yes he was once a leader, tactics and combat was and is his thing and he will give help as much as he can to see these people are ready to survive, to fight, to keep their land and their lives.
Davros Thursday January 25th, 2007 9:12:37 PM
"First, I recommend more scouts. We are doing an adequate job, but additional scouts ranging further out would help."
"I like the ideas for the town's immediate defense, but my thinking is about farther away. We should seek out allies. There are many creatures of the forest which have been traditionally strong allies to elves, and help with mutual defense. Beyond this, alliances could be formed with Jarlwolf and every other town and community in the area. The dragon may have no problem attacking lone towns, but a number of peoples allied together may give him pause. Even the most powerful dragon will not seek to overextend himself. And he would risk himself also. If all of these towns were allied in defense against him, they would probably have access to contact adventurers who would be willing and able to fight Parnoth directly. After all, was not the entire Cinnamon Valley freed from the rule of a powerful giant by a group of adventurers?"
"Last, and most importantly we need information. What is the dragon doing? Does he really care about this town or was that just a whim he spoke out loud? There apparently are negotiations going on with him. Are any other towns involved? We should send out riders to other towns and gather information."
A long winded speech as usual from Davros. But when his learning is called upon, he is happy to share it. Hopefully Whiskers is the only one he put to sleep with the speech.
DM Kathy Friday January 26th, 2007 12:56:40 AM
The elves listen to your suggestions, nodding.
"Walls are not really our style," Firon replies to Bralin. "And hedges will have to wait until after summer's heat has past, else they will wither and die. But we can build platforms."
"My scouts could use a bit of extra training," says Tahlela with a grin for Florin. "If some of you could undertake to give it to them. A ballista, now...that would be quite an undertaking." She glances around. "Does anyone know how to build one?"
"Does anyone know how to hide one?" asks Firon wryly.
"Tahlela's hunters can help with scouting and watching," says Sivaine, with a nod at Harvest. "The fields are far enough along that I can send some of my people off to fish and gather food. The hunters can stick closer to camp and keep an eye on things."
Firon is intrigued by Arminas's suggestions of escape routes. "Let us put our heads together and see what we can come up with," he says.
"We like to think that the folk of Jarlwolf are our allies, of a sort," Sivaine says to Davros. "But you make a good point. We should try to solidify our ties with the human settlements in the region. Perhaps a diplomatic mission...we must put some though into whom to send."
Over the next day or two, they begin putting their plans into action. More scout platforms are built, many with cunning escape routes. Hedges and other obstacles are planned, to subtly control the approaches to the village. And Tahlela's scouts report for extra training.
You help as you can, scouting, advising, training, helping to build. Harvest takes a walk around the area and is able to draw a fairly detailed map (especially if she thinks to consult with Arminas/Ewan for an aerial perspective).
Lorth Friday January 26th, 2007 8:07:04 AM
Lorth volunteers to help with the training of the elves. He does his best to instuct them in longsword technique, concentrating mostly on defensive moves with some quick easy offensive strikes. Lorth continues to teach as long as there are students who would like to learn, when not teaching he does his normal scouting.
Any Friday January 26th, 2007 8:45:50 AM
Any nods in approval as each suggestion for defense is made. When the morning comes, he accompanies Harvest as she goes out to map the surrounding area. He has riiden far afield in his scouting, and is able to offer many incites regarding places of concealment on the ground, and routes of escape for any caught out this far, which circuitously bring that person back to the village.
He works with the others, once returned, to help in training the scouts in combat.
Later, sitting by the fire, he addresses Harvest,
"Your suggestion to remove the room and its contents from the village area has merit. If this is truly Parnoth's point of interest in this area, we should think about removing it. If it is just a ploy to extend his reach, I fear nothing we can do will deter him. In that case, the only hope I see for this village is to prepare as they have begun, and hope for the best."
Harvest Friday January 26th, 2007 9:57:20 AM
Harvest Moon places the bit of bread and cheese into the hammock of her lap and she reaches out with to take Any's hand.
"That is all that we can do at any time in life, My Love," she replies.
Her thoughts return to the day's ride. The asking of Arminas Calaelen and his Ewan to aide them in the mapping had gone better than expected. The eagle had been able to understand the idea that marks upon paper could represent objects upon the ground. Or, perhaps, it had been the great understanding that the ranger had of his friend that was the crux of the thing.
"The bridge over the Merrydale road where it crosses the Windtree might be an area to consider defending. If the town must flee from a threat that comes either from or through the Culverwood, I think that it would be most reasonable to withdraw up the road in the direction of Magpie Crossing and Stormwind Castle beyond."
"The map that I have drawn shows the ways of great approach. Large creatures or large movements of people might use these ways. One mile or three down each of these, we may wish to post hidden lookouts with relays along the way to provide early warning."
"Still yet, is to map the smaller ways closer to the camp. These would be the ways of use to smaller scouting groups or skirmish parties, dangerous animals as well. Mapping these ways will require more time. And I will need the aide of one versed in woodcraft. Arminas Calaelen, if you would lend your help again. Or, perhaps, one of the hunters."
Bralin Friday January 26th, 2007 10:08:33 AM
The dwarf nods with Davros' suggestion about gathering allies, but disagrees with the ballista idea.
"Parnoth will not rouse himself to attack one village. Has the dragon ever left the safety of his halls? We have not resources to train and build for such a defense, nor for attack by an army. First, devise the means to repel several score. Add on as time permits."
Arminas Friday January 26th, 2007 5:37:32 PM
Arminas spends his time traveling about with Ewan and Harvest, getting an even more detailed lay of the land. While his study of landmarks and topography has committed the land to his memory, he realizes that without the mapping skills of Harvest that few others will gain such knowledge.
While they map the land, he looks for the hidden lookouts Harvest mentions, both in trees and ridges.
He gives suggestions to the elves, teaching them ways to conceal pits and snares.
"Make sure that the sentry is able to make safe landing just on this side of the traps. This way, if he is seen it will actually be to our benefit, as the attackers are likely to become victims of the traps. Be careful though, and teach those of the village where the danger is hidden."
When he comes across an animal that may help them keep watch, he uses the spells 'Speak with Animals' and 'Charm Animal'. He asks for help in watching for danger.
"Harvest, is there more you require of me? I do not think we will ever finish this work, yet in starting we are upon the path."
Lily d20+20=22 Friday January 26th, 2007 5:43:32 PM
Seeing all the new action as it is going on Lily tries to find a useful place for herself. She joins Lorth in the training grounds.
"Perhaps the elves would find the longspear useful, too. A line of spear backed up by archers is formidable. And shields or some cover, such as hedges to protect the spearmen is better still. I will offer to teach that."
Lily turns to the elves and speaks to them in their own tongue, with a near perfect accent, "For those who aren't training with Lorth here, I can help to train you with these longspears," as she draws one from her quiver, "for they are easy to make and help to keep the enemy from you. To some of you I could teach how to tumble away from the enemy so that they do not hurt you, or even past them without fear. But that is harder to master. Let's begin with the longspear." Diguise (accent) 22
Davros Friday January 26th, 2007 7:29:44 PM
"We have to be careful not to pull the elves away from their strengths. Archery, and hit and run tactics are more their style than standing behind a wall and trading sword blows. A few minor magic deceptions may prove useful as well. With the elders permission I will take on a few apprentices and teach some defensive magics. If none are interested, maybe Zaryla would like to learn a few new spells from me to help protect the town."
Florin Jadenth Friday January 26th, 2007 9:58:14 PM
Florin takes time to help with the defenses and also to help train some of the else, he too can use a longsword well and his archery skills are not half bad now as a elf.
Seeing Lily teaching about the longspear he moves over and smiles to her, "I use to use a glaive, if I may suggest something Lily that might aid them also. When fighting mounted units it is a good idea to plant a polearm type weapon for the charge, tips just so." He smiles to her, "You being a user of the longspear should teach them but a suggestion is all."
Florin continues this, his training to become a paladin of Domi was hrs on hrs of swordsmanship and such so he is relentless in his training, offering words of encouragement when he sees progress and slightly strict when he thinks a elf or two can do better if they put their all in to it.