After an hour, the four are utterly spent, but you feel you have found some safety from the goblins, having turned off a trail and discovered an old, well-concealed lean-to in the woods. Here you wait, and can short rest, and Vidruth and Daphyra can both regain consciousness with 1HP. Hildar, alone, remains unconscious.
Marten thankfully lies down on the ground and takes off one boot, propping his swollen ankle up on his sack of gear. Tireless on the journey from Phandalin to the Cragmaw Cave, he now feels weary beyond words. Marten briefly drifts off to sleep, waking several minutes later with a start, happy to find that he's save in the lean-to and not still trapped in the dark caves surrounded by goblins. He eats lunch and chats with the others while lying on his side with his leg still propped up. After an hour, the swelling has gone down, and he finally bandages his ankle and slides his his boot over his foot. He stands gingerly at first and then tests his full weight on his foot. Squatting and then leaning side-to-side. Marten is happy to find that his ankle is pain-free for now.
(OOC: Marten spends 1 HD during the short rest. Healing 5 HP (in game log), so he's back to max HP.)
The group reached the relative safety of the make-shift shelter. Kiselina lays his injured companion on the ground and makes them as comfortable as possible. He sees that the other wounded are given similar treatment.
“Perhaps, Master Martin, I should invest in one of those healing kits as well. It might bolster my life saving skills. You appear very proficient with it.”
Marten looks pleased, "Yessiree! When y're three days into th' Wild, a man oft'n lives--or dies--based on his gear. I'm not a trained Healer, but I can patch a body up with the right supplies." He opens the Healer's Kit and shows Kiselina the components it contains and explains their use in treating common wounds in case Kiselina ever needs to use it.
Having made his decision, the Dragonborn rises and moves to Sildar, briefly explaining before he uses the last of Bahamut’s blessing to lay hands (for 1HP) on the injured human. “I have chosen to revive Sildar, as I weigh our present needs call for more immediate attention than that of an unknown future.”
Marten nods in agreement. "P'rhaps Sildar can tell us how many goblins there were all together 'n' whether Gundren is still alive."
(OOC: Nosam already used a hit die for healing during the previous short rest, our characters only have a number of hit dice as they have levels and, once spent, only half of them reset during a long rest. This is one of the reasons why we must return to town and rest a night. The other reason are spells.)
Berry makes sure that Daphyra, Vidruth and Sildar are seated comfortably and brings them their waterskin and rations to nib on while they rest. "I absolutely agree," Berry throws in, "Each of us should get one of those kits. They seem easy enough to use and can save lives. I just didn't think goblins would fight with such vigour." He sits down to eat some of a ration himself but cringes in pain when lowering himself. His wound needs dressing, too, and he's in dire need of a little rest. "They gave us a beating these goblins. Sure, we've got some of them in return but, honestly, I thought this would be easier." He casts his eyes down shyly, "I think we have to return to town, even though I fear they will do worse to Gundren," he says shooting a glance to Sildar.
Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
"goblins are hard to predict, and highly lethal in large numbers" vidruth agrees "and yeah, we should each get one if we can afford one" he winces, holding his side as he adjust his position "and they will ambush us next time almost certainly, their leader is a bugbear"
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This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic byVitaly S Alexius
Sildar Hallwinter, his complexion and curly hair like flaxen grass; his face discolored by bruises and lacerations, eyes, blue-gray; his form tall and muscular, a fighter born, his family known in Neverwinter as blacksmiths, huntsmen, and guardsmen; Sildar glows briefly as the healing energy of Bahamut’s grace, imparted by Kiselina, whispers across his form like a gentle breeze.
His eyes flutter open. They are at first, unfocused, and he shudders at you, huddled around him, and he shouts in a bright baritone, “Now I’ve my freedom, and it will mean my revenge!” He twists away and rolls to his feet in a smooth motion. Or would have done if he could. Alas, when he tries to push himself up he instead flops back to the ground, grunting in pain.
Bewildered at the lack of cooperation of his right hand, he looks at it, his hand, and so do you. All four fingers, and thumb, have been roughly severed, then cauterized just as roughly.
He flops on his back, cradling the still sensitive wounds, then turns, horrified, to look at you once again.
But now his eyes seem to focus and recognize your faces.
“Marten. Kiselina. Daphyra. Nosam, Berry, Vidruth. By Tempus’ mighty blade, I have never been so glad to see friendly faces. How have I come here? What of Klarg, of Yeemik and their evil clan? Are they near?”
He writhes for a moment in anger but his energy quickly dissipates. His eyes flick among you, somewhat wildly.
Daphyra groans and comes around. She looks around and sits up, looking around.
"That feels a bit better. I'm sorry I was not able to help you all as much as I wanted. Those goblins were certainly a tougher prospect than they initially seemed. Who is this?" She looks concernedly at Sildar.
She continues to sit and tend to her wounds, taking a short rest (regains 4HP).
vidruth nods to him "good to see you alive, klargs alive, some of the goblins are dead. whos yeenik?" he looks at the hand but chooses not to comment on it, its sildars burden to do as he wished
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This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic byVitaly S Alexius
Berry musters Sildar, "What happened to you? What happened to Gundren? Is he still alive?" Berry hesitates a moment before continuing, "We found your horses on the road, well, their bodies and figured that both of you must have been taken by goblins. So we came to the rescue. But we underestimated them and," he chuckles, "Well, you see, we've got a thorough beating and almost needed rescuing ourselves. We're in no shape to exact revenge, and, " Berry points dryly at Sildar's hand, "neither are you. We must rest and recover and then we need to decide if we try again. Was Gundren held captive with you and what was his condition?"
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Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
Kiselina in unusually silent, listening to the others address Sildar’s questions and interjecting their own. He feels survivor’s guilt for both Sildar and Gundren. The Paladin has know pain, but he has yet to experience a debilitating injury. “That’s not going to be easy, that’s for sure” he thinks to himself about Sildar’s hand.
Like Daphyra, he feels like he didn’t “give it his all” as the saying goes.He’s just as curious as Vidruth about the unknown name Sildar referenced. Even as a passive observer, he gathers as much about Sildar as Marten does. He hopes Sildar is up for a debrief though, his actions surely indicate the fighter is motivated to get even.
Kiselina feels a little proud of Berry’s recap. The fairy covers everything he would have, but he also adds that the equipment they recovered was left with Barthen in Phandalin. The Dragonborn opens a ration and offers it to Sildar along with his water skin.
“Phandalin, it’s where you should go to recover from your injuries Sildar. It’s where we all should go before we try Cragmaw again, though it pains me to say so.”
Daphyra... Who is this?" She looks concernedly at Sildar.
"Milady Sister Daphyra," Sildar says, grimacing as he turns to face the harengon, "It is I, Sildar Hallwinter. Believe me, I am as surprised to see you as you may be to see me."
vidruth nods to him "good to see you alive, klargs alive, some of the goblins are dead. whos yeenik?" he looks at the hand but chooses not to comment on it, its sildars burden to do as he wished
"Yeenik," Sildar answers, his voice brimming with an undertone of disgust, "is the one who did this." He raises his mangled hand. "The most vile goblin I have met. But strong, too. For a goblin. Yeenik was the leader of the Cragmaws before Klarg came along. Yeenik is jealous of Klarg, and cunning. He stirred up the other goblins. None of them liked the idea of taking captives. So much simpler to kill and be done with it, they think.
"It... it must have been your company which came into the caves, and caused the alarm to be raised. A goblin I recognized, with a cleft in its ear, came into the chamber where I was held captive to tell Yeenik of the incursion. But Yeenik did not rush to Klarg's aid. Just the opposite. He waited, sensing an opportunity. Then Yeenik brought me out, to a bridge over a creek, to use as a bargaining chip, no doubt. But something unexpected happened, causing Yeenik to lose his temper. Then, I felt the knife, and I remember nothing more."
Berry musters Sildar, "What happened to you? What happened to Gundren? Is he still alive?" Berry hesitates a moment before continuing, "We found your horses on the road, well, their bodies and figured that both of you must have been taken by goblins. So we came to the rescue. But we underestimated them and," he chuckles, "Well, you see, we've got a thorough beating and almost needed rescuing ourselves. We're in no shape to exact revenge, and, " Berry points dryly at Sildar's hand, "neither are you. We must rest and recover and then we need to decide if we try again. Was Gundren held captive with you and what was his condition?"
"The goblins lay in wait for us at the Triboar Trail. They knew we were coming somehow. The entire tribe was there, with Klarg. I could not stop them, though my blade's thirst was quenched in that fight. We fell. As they dragged us to their lair, they let on that some figure Klarg answers to, called 'The Black Spider,' had ordered Klarg to kidnap Gundren. They weren't sure at first which of us was the one they sought. But in time they worked it out. They knocked out Gundren and carried him away to this 'Black Spider.' Since then I have been a mere plaything, a subject of their vile brutality to pass the hours of the days and nights. I am... lucky to be alive."
"You have nothing to be ashamed of. Nothing. It would have taken twice your number to route them. There were eight in the chamber with me and Yeenik, and a pair of archers at the doors. Gundren was wise -- as usual -- to hire you. I am grateful for his wisdom. And grateful to you. You saved my life, there is no doubting that. It is fact."
Kiselina feels a little proud of Berry’s recap. The fairy covers everything he would have, but he also adds that the equipment they recovered was left with Barthen in Phandalin. The Dragonborn opens a ration and offers it to Sildar along with his water skin.
“Phandalin, it’s where you should go to recover from your injuries Sildar. It’s where we all should go before we try Cragmaw again, though it pains me to say so.”
"Yes! Water, I... did not realize how thirsty I am," Sildar grunts. He drinks thirstily, but not without manners, even in his condition.
"You, Kiselina... it was your soul's call that brought Bahamut to aid me as my own soul drifted far from Faerun. I thank you, dragonborn. You have honor, and compassion. And all of you possess bravery!!," he adds.
"Phandalin. Yes, I agree. I have friends there, and business of my own. And I need a healer lest this wound fester and take more of me away than the goblins already have."
Marten nods in agreement. "P'rhaps Sildar can tell us how many goblins there were all together 'n' whether Gundren is still alive."
"Yes! Gundren is still alive. I am sure of it. But where this Black Spider is located. That I do not know. One must find it to find Gundren."
"You owe me nothing. I owe you my life. I can hardly walk. But if you will allow me to lean on you as far as Phandalin, I have resources there and can reward you modestly."
(OOC: Daphyra and Marten: you both notice a sigil on Sildar's tunic. It is bloodied and torn, but seems to show the particular form of a griffin which might be familiar to you. Please roll History checks, DC10)
Success:
One who wears this sigil holds a place of honor in the famous griffon cavalry of the great city of Waterdeep.
"The goblins lay in wait for us at the Triboar Trail. They knew we were coming somehow. The entire tribe was there, with Klarg. I could not stop them, though my blade's thirst was quenched in that fight. We fell. As they dragged us to their lair, they let on that some figure Klarg answers to, called 'The Black Spider,' had ordered Klarg to kidnap Gundren. They weren't sure at first which of us was the one they sought. But in time they worked it out. They knocked out Gundren and carried him away to this 'Black Spider.' Since then I have been a mere plaything, a subject of their vile brutality to pass the hours of the days and nights. I am... lucky to be alive."
Marten listens with interest. He grunts in satisfaction that the group read the signs of the ambush correctly. If only they had gotten there in time to rescue Gundren before he was taken away to this "black spider"!
"You have nothing to be ashamed of. Nothing. It would have taken twice your number to route them. There were eight in the chamber with me and Yeenik, and a pair of archers at the doors. Gundren was wise -- as usual -- to hire you. I am grateful for his wisdom. And grateful to you. You saved my life, there is no doubting that. It is fact."
"8 more and 2 archers, plus their chief!", Marten says in surprise. He looks to Kiselina and then Berry, "Now we know retreating was the right choice. Even if we had survived the fight with Klarg, we would ha' been in no shape to face another dozen goblins," Marten says to Kiselina and Berry. His voice is flat, but he's trying to be reassuring. Seeing Sildar and his maimed hand, Marten is feeling ashamed of their mistakes in attacking the Cragmaw cave and guilty that they weren't able to rescue Sildar before the goblins tortured and maimed him.
"Phandalin. Yes, I agree. I have friends there, and business of my own. And I need a healer lest this wound fester and take more of me away than the goblins already have."
That settles it for Marten. He originally wondered whether the group could find a safe place to camp overnight in the woods so that they could strike earlier the next day, before the goblins had a chance to move their headquarters or to reinforce their positions. But now that he has seen Sildar's hand, it's clear that they'll have to march back to Phandalin as soon as everyone is rested.
Marten nods in agreement. "P'rhaps Sildar can tell us how many goblins there were all together 'n' whether Gundren is still alive."
"Yes! Gundren is still alive. I am sure of it. But where this Black Spider is located. That I do not know. One must find it to find Gundren."
"You owe me nothing. I owe you my life. I can hardly walk. But if you will allow me to lean on you as far as Phandalin, I have resources there and can reward you modestly."
Marten just looks into the man's face briefly, gives him a tight-lipped smile, and pats him gently on the shoulder. "We're jus' glad we found you alive. Don' you worry. We'll get you to Phandalin safely, and then we'll find where these little devils took Gundren." Marten's gaze drops before he's even done speaking. He notices a sigil on Sildar's tunic, which is not his own coat-of-arms or family crest.
(OOC: Daphyra and Marten: you both notice a sigil on Sildar's tunic. It is bloodied and torn, but seems to show the particular form of a griffin which might be familiar to you. Please roll History checks, DC10)
Nosam is more quiet than normal and is listening to the group interact with SIldar. This encounter with the numerous goblins wore on him more than expected. His rag tag party were growing on him, but he realized he felt real concern and worry before they made it out of the cave.
Looking at Sildar's marred hand hand and hearing what awaited them in the chamber, Nosam feels a bit more content about their retreat. "Well boys, I'm happy to keep watch until everyone is situated and ready to move on to Phandalin. Give the word and tell me what to carry and I'm ready."
Kiselina is inspired by what he perceives as Sildar’s upbeat attitude. The knight is unsure if he’d be as enthusiastic as Sildar if he himself had just suffered such wounds. “You are truly a great figure, my friend. I can see why Gundren entrusted his safety to you. Your positive outlook even in the face of grim outcomes is noble. You hadn’t by chance ever studied at the Temple of Bahamut in Neverwinter have you? Your point of view seems right in line with the tenant if cheerful service. Perhaps you could present your view of the world to its students sometime?”
“We shall seek the Black Spider and see to Gundren’s rescue. But, (he takes an awkward pause here) have you any idea why Gundren was targeted for capture? Is it, (another pause) possibly connected to the “Something Big” the Rockseeker brothers found?”
”With the hour growing late, perhaps we should establish a camp and wait for first light to head out. We risk getting turned around in the dark and ending up in a worse situation if we venture now. Or alerting pursuers if we attempt to travel by torch light. I can pull a double shift on guard if needed.” Kiselina offers a hand, shoulder, or even his halberd to Sildar if he needs assistance on the journey back, when ever the group decides to depart that is.
Daphyra shakes her head a little and she blinks. "Forgive me, Sildar, for not recognising you immediately. I... my head aches. I will be better after a proper sleep I'm sure."
"Thank the goddess Gundren is still alive!"
She focuses on the griffin insignia. (History 16) "Do you have contacts with the griffin cavalry? Would it be appropriate to seek their assistance to locate this Black Spider?"
“After we rest and recover from our wounds, we can return to the goblins and see if there is any clue about that spider,” Berry chimes in, while they prepare to leave to Phandalin. “I have a mind to empty that cave. These goblins are vile and surely a problem for Phandalin. We cannot just leave them.”
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Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
"empty the cave?" he laughs bitterly "i dont know we can, but if its at all possible we should give it a whack. bloody goblins. i can keep watch if needed, and we should get what weapons we can in phandalin, i certainly need a dagger, and we should buy a good bit of oil, never underestimate the power of fire"
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This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic byVitaly S Alexius
“After we rest and recover from our wounds, we can return to the goblins and see if there is any clue about that spider,” Berry chimes in, while they prepare to leave to Phandalin. “I have a mind to empty that cave. These goblins are vile and surely a problem for Phandalin. We cannot just leave them.”
Marten agrees, saying, "We have to go back anyway, right? If these Cragmaw goblins sent Gunden to the black spider, then one of 'em most know where the spider is or how to contact 'im."
"empty the cave?" he laughs bitterly "i dont know we can, but if its at all possible we should give it a whack. bloody goblins. i can keep watch if needed, and we should get what weapons we can in phandalin, i certainly need a dagger, and we should buy a good bit of oil, never underestimate the power of fire"
Marten suggests, "Well, m'ybe we don' have to kill all of the goblins to get them to surrender. I really want to repay the hurt they did to Sildar, but p'rhaps we could get some information out of 'em and just drive 'em off if we kill this Klarg and his guards? From what Sildar said, it sounds like the others are against him."
From @1973: two important facts.
1. the hour is late, around 18:30. The sun is setting.
2. You’re not sure where you are exactly, vis-a-vis the Triboar Trail.
Feeling better after a rest and some food, Marten stands to stretch. He says, "I'm goin' to check outside and make sure nothing's creepin' up on us. Nosam, I'd be happy if y'd watch my back."
Marten restrings his bow, takes the last goblin arrow out of his extra quiver, and goes to the door of the lean-to. He slowly moves outside and looks around, listening for anything other than the noises of animals coming out to forage in the twilight. Perception25
Assuming that he doesn't see any goblins (or other potential threats), Marten pokes his head back into the lean-to to say, "I think we'll be sleepin' here, at least for tonight. I didn't realize how late it was, but it looks like the sun's already settin'. Unless you wanna try marchin' out o' the woods in th' dark with those Cragmaw goblins at our heels? And goblins aren't the only dangers at night in the Wild!"
Before they lose the light, Marten spends a few minutes quietly moving away from the lean-to, checking the ground and the plants around the lean-to in ever bigger arcs until he's about 30' away. He's looking for any tracks or other signs that the goblins or anyone has been to this structure recently. (I guess that would be Survival20, but add +2 if it's still perception.)
Kiselina is inspired by what he perceives as Sildar’s upbeat attitude. The knight is unsure if he’d be as enthusiastic as Sildar if he himself had just suffered such wounds. “You are truly a great figure, my friend. I can see why Gundren entrusted his safety to you. Your positive outlook even in the face of grim outcomes is noble. You hadn’t by chance ever studied at the Temple of Bahamut in Neverwinter have you? Your point of view seems right in line with the tenant if cheerful service. Perhaps you could present your view of the world to its students sometime?”
“We shall seek the Black Spider and see to Gundren’s rescue. But, (he takes an awkward pause here) have you any idea why Gundren was targeted for capture? Is it, (another pause) possibly connected to the “Something Big” the Rockseeker brothers found?”
”With the hour growing late, perhaps we should establish a camp and wait for first light to head out. We risk getting turned around in the dark and ending up in a worse situation if we venture now. Or alerting pursuers if we attempt to travel by torch light. I can pull a double shift on guard if needed.” Kiselina offers a hand, shoulder, or even his halberd to Sildar if he needs assistance on the journey back, when ever the group decides to depart that is.
Sildar frowns, humbly waving away Kiselina's praise with his good hand. "You are too kind." A shadow passes over his face, Kiselina now sees, as he looks at his damaged hand. But he does seem unwilling to speak of it. "I admit, I have never entered the temple of Bahamut, though I passed it many times. No, I am no speaker. I... can speak for myself, but a leader I am not, nor a teacher."
"The three Rockseeker brothers (Gundren, Tharden, and Nundro) recently located an entrance to the long-lost Wave Echo Cave, site of the mines of the Phandelver’s Pact. Ah..., you already know the history? I am impressed that you have untangled the puzzle on your own. Gundren tried carefully to maintain secrecy. Impressive."
"Gundren had a map showing the secret location of Wave Echo Cave, but the goblins took it when they captured him. I believe that Klarg sent the map and Gundren to the chief of the Cragmaws -- the Black Spider -- at a place called Cragmaw Castle. I do not know where that might be, but it is my hope that someone in Phandalin might know."
Daphyra... focuses on the griffin insignia. (History 16) "Do you have contacts with the griffin cavalry? Would it be appropriate to seek their assistance to locate this Black Spider?"
"I... when I was younger, was a member of the order, the Griffin Cavalry, I am honored to say. Alas, Waterdeep is many days travel from here. I would hesitate to take the time to invoke their aid."
“After we rest and recover from our wounds, we can return to the goblins and see if there is any clue about that spider,” Berry chimes in, while they prepare to leave to Phandalin. “I have a mind to empty that cave. These goblins are vile and surely a problem for Phandalin. We cannot just leave them.”
"I will join you in ridding the Triboar Trail of this continued threat!"
"empty the cave?" he laughs bitterly "i dont know we can, but if its at all possible we should give it a whack. bloody goblins."...
Sildar nods approvingly at Vidruth's statement. "Bloody goblins, aye." He winces at a sudden pain in his mangled hand, but his eyes still hold Vidruth's in agreement, his face sneering in mutual contempt of the evil creatures.
Marten suggests, "Well, m'ybe we don' have to kill all of the goblins to get them to surrender. I really want to repay the hurt they did to Sildar, but p'rhaps we could get some information out of 'em and just drive 'em off if we kill this Klarg and his guards? From what Sildar said, it sounds like the others are against him."
From @1973: two important facts.
1. the hour is late, around 18:30. The sun is setting.
2. You’re not sure where you are exactly, vis-a-vis the Triboar Trail.
Feeling better after a rest and some food, Marten stands to stretch. He says, "I'm goin' to check outside and make sure nothing's creepin' up on us. Nosam, I'd be happy if y'd watch my back."
Marten restrings his bow, takes the last goblin arrow out of his extra quiver, and goes to the door of the lean-to. He slowly moves outside and looks around, listening for anything other than the noises of animals coming out to forage in the twilight. Perception25
Assuming that he doesn't see any goblins (or other potential threats), Marten pokes his head back into the lean-to to say, "I think we'll be sleepin' here, at least for tonight. I didn't realize how late it was, but it looks like the sun's already settin'. Unless you wanna try marchin' out o' the woods in th' dark with those Cragmaw goblins at our heels? And goblins aren't the only dangers at night in the Wild!"
Before they lose the light, Marten spends a few minutes quietly moving away from the lean-to, checking the ground and the plants around the lean-to in ever bigger arcs until he's about 30' away. He's looking for any tracks or other signs that the goblins or anyone has been to this structure recently. (I guess that would be Survival16, but add +2 if it's still perception.)
Sildar agrees with this plan. "Yes, you must be right." Then, a haze of exhaustion, weariness, anger, and pain passes over his features. He leans heavily on whoever is closest, Kiselina, perhaps. "Yes, as much as I want to reach Phandalin... so tired..," and in moments, he is sleeping fitfully, and in his sleep, calling out quietly in fear, "No!!!"
Marten is confident that there are no goblins in the vicinity, and that the lean-to will offer protection from any wild creatures that might wander past in the night. There are bears in the vicinity, but your party will be as safe at least as is possible, to pass the night in this place.
The night comes and goes, and your party is unmolested by passing beasts or creatures.
Dawn comes, and you may all benefit from a long rest.
Berry sleeps well under the thin roof of the lean-to. It feels much closer to nature than a stuffy tavern. Berry still feels bruised but his wounds have mostly closed and are in a process of healing after he was finally able to care for them intensively. In the morning he tries to find some food, like berries and water (Survival: 5) but his focus isn’t great as he continues to ponder the failure of yesterday, or was it? Was it a failure? Sildar is free, worse for wear, true, but alive. And Gundren already wasn’t there when they arrived. Berry returns to the lean-to, commenting to his companions, “If Gundren isn’t with the goblins in the cave, perhaps we don’t really need to go there again.” He continues his reasoning, “Someone in Phandalin might know where this castle is. A castle is quite big and difficult to hide, someone must know. After the night’s rest, I think I care much less to what will happen to these goblins and their bosses. Sounds to me that Klarg and the other are going to take care of themselves and perhaps it is better to have them fight each other than leave only one directing the tribe, especially the goblin leader appears to be even more vicious than the bugbear.”
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Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
Berry returns to the lean-to, commenting to his companions, “If Gundren isn’t with the goblins in the cave, perhaps we don’t really need to go there again.”
(OOC: I'm assuming that we're using standard healing rules so that everyone in the party is back at max HP in the morning, and everyone has one HD to spend on healing this day.)
"M'ybe y're right, Berry. The Cragmaws seemed lethal enough to me, even in small numbers!", Marten says ruefully. He doesn't like to contradict Berry, so he looks down at his boots and continues, "But what if y're wrong? One of them must know the location of Cragmaw Castle, and after our raid yesterday, they might abandon the cave. If we return to Phandalin now and can't find anyone else who knows, we could lose our best chance to find out more."
If anyone else wants to talk more about trying to make a second raid on the Cragmaw Cave before returning to Phandalin, Marten offers:
"I reckon that we already killed...", he pauses to count on his fingers, his lips moving silently for a moment as he recalls yesterday's fights, "13 of 'em, right? Plus those 4 wolves that they had starved, th' poor creatures. Now, by my count, that last chamber by the pool just had Klarg, 3 goblins, and at least 1 wolf. From what Sildar said last night, this Yeenik has about 10 more goblins with him. But it sounds like Yeenik and Klarg are uneasy allies, just as willing to stab each other in the back as to help. M'ybe we could strike a deal with one of the two so that if we eliminate one group, we don't have to deal with the other."
Marten is optimistic about their chances if they return to the cave:"If we go back today, we already know the layout of the main tunnel and the chambers on the right-hand side, mostly. That'll make it easier to make a good plan and get everyone into position. If Mistress Daphyra will give us her goddess's blessing again, we could even sneak in without torches this time, which Klarg and the goblins probably don't realize."
Daphyra nods slowly, but not terribly enthusiastically. "My gifts from the goddess are happily shared, Marten. I agree with you that it may be useful to return in case we can find information, but we need to plan carefully how we can build on each others' skills and be strategic as a group."
Marten thankfully lies down on the ground and takes off one boot, propping his swollen ankle up on his sack of gear. Tireless on the journey from Phandalin to the Cragmaw Cave, he now feels weary beyond words. Marten briefly drifts off to sleep, waking several minutes later with a start, happy to find that he's save in the lean-to and not still trapped in the dark caves surrounded by goblins. He eats lunch and chats with the others while lying on his side with his leg still propped up. After an hour, the swelling has gone down, and he finally bandages his ankle and slides his his boot over his foot. He stands gingerly at first and then tests his full weight on his foot. Squatting and then leaning side-to-side. Marten is happy to find that his ankle is pain-free for now.
(OOC: Marten spends 1 HD during the short rest. Healing 5 HP (in game log), so he's back to max HP.)
Marten looks pleased, "Yessiree! When y're three days into th' Wild, a man oft'n lives--or dies--based on his gear. I'm not a trained Healer, but I can patch a body up with the right supplies." He opens the Healer's Kit and shows Kiselina the components it contains and explains their use in treating common wounds in case Kiselina ever needs to use it.
Marten nods in agreement. "P'rhaps Sildar can tell us how many goblins there were all together 'n' whether Gundren is still alive."
(OOC: Nosam already used a hit die for healing during the previous short rest, our characters only have a number of hit dice as they have levels and, once spent, only half of them reset during a long rest. This is one of the reasons why we must return to town and rest a night. The other reason are spells.)
Berry makes sure that Daphyra, Vidruth and Sildar are seated comfortably and brings them their waterskin and rations to nib on while they rest. "I absolutely agree," Berry throws in, "Each of us should get one of those kits. They seem easy enough to use and can save lives. I just didn't think goblins would fight with such vigour." He sits down to eat some of a ration himself but cringes in pain when lowering himself. His wound needs dressing, too, and he's in dire need of a little rest. "They gave us a beating these goblins. Sure, we've got some of them in return but, honestly, I thought this would be easier." He casts his eyes down shyly, "I think we have to return to town, even though I fear they will do worse to Gundren," he says shooting a glance to Sildar.
Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus ||
"goblins are hard to predict, and highly lethal in large numbers" vidruth agrees "and yeah, we should each get one if we can afford one" he winces, holding his side as he adjust his position "and they will ambush us next time almost certainly, their leader is a bugbear"
This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic by Vitaly S Alexius
Sildar Hallwinter
Sildar Hallwinter, his complexion and curly hair like flaxen grass; his face discolored by bruises and lacerations, eyes, blue-gray; his form tall and muscular, a fighter born, his family known in Neverwinter as blacksmiths, huntsmen, and guardsmen; Sildar glows briefly as the healing energy of Bahamut’s grace, imparted by Kiselina, whispers across his form like a gentle breeze.
His eyes flutter open. They are at first, unfocused, and he shudders at you, huddled around him, and he shouts in a bright baritone, “Now I’ve my freedom, and it will mean my revenge!” He twists away and rolls to his feet in a smooth motion. Or would have done if he could. Alas, when he tries to push himself up he instead flops back to the ground, grunting in pain.
Bewildered at the lack of cooperation of his right hand, he looks at it, his hand, and so do you. All four fingers, and thumb, have been roughly severed, then cauterized just as roughly.
He flops on his back, cradling the still sensitive wounds, then turns, horrified, to look at you once again.
But now his eyes seem to focus and recognize your faces.
“Marten. Kiselina. Daphyra. Nosam, Berry, Vidruth. By Tempus’ mighty blade, I have never been so glad to see friendly faces. How have I come here? What of Klarg, of Yeemik and their evil clan? Are they near?”
He writhes for a moment in anger but his energy quickly dissipates. His eyes flick among you, somewhat wildly.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Daphyra groans and comes around. She looks around and sits up, looking around.
"That feels a bit better. I'm sorry I was not able to help you all as much as I wanted. Those goblins were certainly a tougher prospect than they initially seemed. Who is this?" She looks concernedly at Sildar.
She continues to sit and tend to her wounds, taking a short rest (regains 4HP).
Past characters:
Cariadne - Forest of Celador
Daphyra Fuffletail - The City of Cats
DM - Geek Legends - Wild beyond the Witchlight
Leela Steadystone - Adventures in the Sands
Mirri Goldenhorn - Journeys through the Radiant Citadel
Lola Smythe-Whyte - Larkin Expedition
Daphyra - Deathworld: Lost Mine of Phandelver
Vanja - Binder's Hold and the Problem with the Mine
vidruth nods to him "good to see you alive, klargs alive, some of the goblins are dead. whos yeenik?" he looks at the hand but chooses not to comment on it, its sildars burden to do as he wished
This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic by Vitaly S Alexius
Berry musters Sildar, "What happened to you? What happened to Gundren? Is he still alive?" Berry hesitates a moment before continuing, "We found your horses on the road, well, their bodies and figured that both of you must have been taken by goblins. So we came to the rescue. But we underestimated them and," he chuckles, "Well, you see, we've got a thorough beating and almost needed rescuing ourselves. We're in no shape to exact revenge, and, " Berry points dryly at Sildar's hand, "neither are you. We must rest and recover and then we need to decide if we try again. Was Gundren held captive with you and what was his condition?"
Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus ||
Kiselina in unusually silent, listening to the others address Sildar’s questions and interjecting their own. He feels survivor’s guilt for both Sildar and Gundren. The Paladin has know pain, but he has yet to experience a debilitating injury. “That’s not going to be easy, that’s for sure” he thinks to himself about Sildar’s hand.
Like Daphyra, he feels like he didn’t “give it his all” as the saying goes. He’s just as curious as Vidruth about the unknown name Sildar referenced. Even as a passive observer, he gathers as much about Sildar as Marten does. He hopes Sildar is up for a debrief though, his actions surely indicate the fighter is motivated to get even.
Kiselina feels a little proud of Berry’s recap. The fairy covers everything he would have, but he also adds that the equipment they recovered was left with Barthen in Phandalin. The Dragonborn opens a ration and offers it to Sildar along with his water skin.
“Phandalin, it’s where you should go to recover from your injuries Sildar. It’s where we all should go before we try Cragmaw again, though it pains me to say so.”
"Milady Sister Daphyra," Sildar says, grimacing as he turns to face the harengon, "It is I, Sildar Hallwinter. Believe me, I am as surprised to see you as you may be to see me."
"Yeenik," Sildar answers, his voice brimming with an undertone of disgust, "is the one who did this." He raises his mangled hand. "The most vile goblin I have met. But strong, too. For a goblin. Yeenik was the leader of the Cragmaws before Klarg came along. Yeenik is jealous of Klarg, and cunning. He stirred up the other goblins. None of them liked the idea of taking captives. So much simpler to kill and be done with it, they think.
"It... it must have been your company which came into the caves, and caused the alarm to be raised. A goblin I recognized, with a cleft in its ear, came into the chamber where I was held captive to tell Yeenik of the incursion. But Yeenik did not rush to Klarg's aid. Just the opposite. He waited, sensing an opportunity. Then Yeenik brought me out, to a bridge over a creek, to use as a bargaining chip, no doubt. But something unexpected happened, causing Yeenik to lose his temper. Then, I felt the knife, and I remember nothing more."
"The goblins lay in wait for us at the Triboar Trail. They knew we were coming somehow. The entire tribe was there, with Klarg. I could not stop them, though my blade's thirst was quenched in that fight. We fell. As they dragged us to their lair, they let on that some figure Klarg answers to, called 'The Black Spider,' had ordered Klarg to kidnap Gundren. They weren't sure at first which of us was the one they sought. But in time they worked it out. They knocked out Gundren and carried him away to this 'Black Spider.' Since then I have been a mere plaything, a subject of their vile brutality to pass the hours of the days and nights. I am... lucky to be alive."
"You have nothing to be ashamed of. Nothing. It would have taken twice your number to route them. There were eight in the chamber with me and Yeenik, and a pair of archers at the doors. Gundren was wise -- as usual -- to hire you. I am grateful for his wisdom. And grateful to you. You saved my life, there is no doubting that. It is fact."
"Yes! Water, I... did not realize how thirsty I am," Sildar grunts. He drinks thirstily, but not without manners, even in his condition.
"You, Kiselina... it was your soul's call that brought Bahamut to aid me as my own soul drifted far from Faerun. I thank you, dragonborn. You have honor, and compassion. And all of you possess bravery!!," he adds.
"Phandalin. Yes, I agree. I have friends there, and business of my own. And I need a healer lest this wound fester and take more of me away than the goblins already have."
"Yes! Gundren is still alive. I am sure of it. But where this Black Spider is located. That I do not know. One must find it to find Gundren."
"You owe me nothing. I owe you my life. I can hardly walk. But if you will allow me to lean on you as far as Phandalin, I have resources there and can reward you modestly."
(OOC: Daphyra and Marten: you both notice a sigil on Sildar's tunic. It is bloodied and torn, but seems to show the particular form of a griffin which might be familiar to you. Please roll History checks, DC10)
Success:
One who wears this sigil holds a place of honor in the famous griffon cavalry of the great city of Waterdeep.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Marten listens with interest. He grunts in satisfaction that the group read the signs of the ambush correctly. If only they had gotten there in time to rescue Gundren before he was taken away to this "black spider"!
"8 more and 2 archers, plus their chief!", Marten says in surprise. He looks to Kiselina and then Berry, "Now we know retreating was the right choice. Even if we had survived the fight with Klarg, we would ha' been in no shape to face another dozen goblins," Marten says to Kiselina and Berry. His voice is flat, but he's trying to be reassuring. Seeing Sildar and his maimed hand, Marten is feeling ashamed of their mistakes in attacking the Cragmaw cave and guilty that they weren't able to rescue Sildar before the goblins tortured and maimed him.
That settles it for Marten. He originally wondered whether the group could find a safe place to camp overnight in the woods so that they could strike earlier the next day, before the goblins had a chance to move their headquarters or to reinforce their positions. But now that he has seen Sildar's hand, it's clear that they'll have to march back to Phandalin as soon as everyone is rested.
Marten just looks into the man's face briefly, gives him a tight-lipped smile, and pats him gently on the shoulder. "We're jus' glad we found you alive. Don' you worry. We'll get you to Phandalin safely, and then we'll find where these little devils took Gundren." Marten's gaze drops before he's even done speaking. He notices a sigil on Sildar's tunic, which is not his own coat-of-arms or family crest.
History 19
Nosam is more quiet than normal and is listening to the group interact with SIldar. This encounter with the numerous goblins wore on him more than expected. His rag tag party were growing on him, but he realized he felt real concern and worry before they made it out of the cave.
Looking at Sildar's marred hand hand and hearing what awaited them in the chamber, Nosam feels a bit more content about their retreat. "Well boys, I'm happy to keep watch until everyone is situated and ready to move on to Phandalin. Give the word and tell me what to carry and I'm ready."
Kiselina is inspired by what he perceives as Sildar’s upbeat attitude. The knight is unsure if he’d be as enthusiastic as Sildar if he himself had just suffered such wounds.
“You are truly a great figure, my friend. I can see why Gundren entrusted his safety to you. Your positive outlook even in the face of grim outcomes is noble. You hadn’t by chance ever studied at the Temple of Bahamut in Neverwinter have you? Your point of view seems right in line with the tenant if cheerful service. Perhaps you could present your view of the world to its students sometime?”
“We shall seek the Black Spider and see to Gundren’s rescue. But, (he takes an awkward pause here) have you any idea why Gundren was targeted for capture? Is it, (another pause) possibly connected to the “Something Big” the Rockseeker brothers found?”
”With the hour growing late, perhaps we should establish a camp and wait for first light to head out. We risk getting turned around in the dark and ending up in a worse situation if we venture now. Or alerting pursuers if we attempt to travel by torch light. I can pull a double shift on guard if needed.”
Kiselina offers a hand, shoulder, or even his halberd to Sildar if he needs assistance on the journey back, when ever the group decides to depart that is.
Daphyra shakes her head a little and she blinks. "Forgive me, Sildar, for not recognising you immediately. I... my head aches. I will be better after a proper sleep I'm sure."
"Thank the goddess Gundren is still alive!"
She focuses on the griffin insignia. (History 16) "Do you have contacts with the griffin cavalry? Would it be appropriate to seek their assistance to locate this Black Spider?"
Past characters:
Cariadne - Forest of Celador
Daphyra Fuffletail - The City of Cats
DM - Geek Legends - Wild beyond the Witchlight
Leela Steadystone - Adventures in the Sands
Mirri Goldenhorn - Journeys through the Radiant Citadel
Lola Smythe-Whyte - Larkin Expedition
Daphyra - Deathworld: Lost Mine of Phandelver
Vanja - Binder's Hold and the Problem with the Mine
“After we rest and recover from our wounds, we can return to the goblins and see if there is any clue about that spider,” Berry chimes in, while they prepare to leave to Phandalin. “I have a mind to empty that cave. These goblins are vile and surely a problem for Phandalin. We cannot just leave them.”
Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus ||
"empty the cave?" he laughs bitterly "i dont know we can, but if its at all possible we should give it a whack. bloody goblins. i can keep watch if needed, and we should get what weapons we can in phandalin, i certainly need a dagger, and we should buy a good bit of oil, never underestimate the power of fire"
This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic by Vitaly S Alexius
Marten agrees, saying, "We have to go back anyway, right? If these Cragmaw goblins sent Gunden to the black spider, then one of 'em most know where the spider is or how to contact 'im."
Marten suggests, "Well, m'ybe we don' have to kill all of the goblins to get them to surrender. I really want to repay the hurt they did to Sildar, but p'rhaps we could get some information out of 'em and just drive 'em off if we kill this Klarg and his guards? From what Sildar said, it sounds like the others are against him."
Feeling better after a rest and some food, Marten stands to stretch. He says, "I'm goin' to check outside and make sure nothing's creepin' up on us. Nosam, I'd be happy if y'd watch my back."
Marten restrings his bow, takes the last goblin arrow out of his extra quiver, and goes to the door of the lean-to. He slowly moves outside and looks around, listening for anything other than the noises of animals coming out to forage in the twilight. Perception 25
Assuming that he doesn't see any goblins (or other potential threats), Marten pokes his head back into the lean-to to say, "I think we'll be sleepin' here, at least for tonight. I didn't realize how late it was, but it looks like the sun's already settin'. Unless you wanna try marchin' out o' the woods in th' dark with those Cragmaw goblins at our heels? And goblins aren't the only dangers at night in the Wild!"
Before they lose the light, Marten spends a few minutes quietly moving away from the lean-to, checking the ground and the plants around the lean-to in ever bigger arcs until he's about 30' away. He's looking for any tracks or other signs that the goblins or anyone has been to this structure recently. (I guess that would be Survival 20, but add +2 if it's still perception.)
Sildar frowns, humbly waving away Kiselina's praise with his good hand. "You are too kind." A shadow passes over his face, Kiselina now sees, as he looks at his damaged hand. But he does seem unwilling to speak of it. "I admit, I have never entered the temple of Bahamut, though I passed it many times. No, I am no speaker. I... can speak for myself, but a leader I am not, nor a teacher."
"The three Rockseeker brothers (Gundren, Tharden, and Nundro) recently located an entrance to the long-lost Wave Echo Cave, site of the mines of the Phandelver’s Pact. Ah..., you already know the history? I am impressed that you have untangled the puzzle on your own. Gundren tried carefully to maintain secrecy. Impressive."
"Gundren had a map showing the secret location of Wave Echo Cave, but the goblins took it when they captured him. I believe that Klarg sent the map and Gundren to the chief of the Cragmaws -- the Black Spider -- at a place called Cragmaw Castle. I do not know where that might be, but it is my hope that someone in Phandalin might know."
"I... when I was younger, was a member of the order, the Griffin Cavalry, I am honored to say. Alas, Waterdeep is many days travel from here. I would hesitate to take the time to invoke their aid."
"I will join you in ridding the Triboar Trail of this continued threat!"
Sildar nods approvingly at Vidruth's statement. "Bloody goblins, aye." He winces at a sudden pain in his mangled hand, but his eyes still hold Vidruth's in agreement, his face sneering in mutual contempt of the evil creatures.
Sildar agrees with this plan. "Yes, you must be right." Then, a haze of exhaustion, weariness, anger, and pain passes over his features. He leans heavily on whoever is closest, Kiselina, perhaps. "Yes, as much as I want to reach Phandalin... so tired..," and in moments, he is sleeping fitfully, and in his sleep, calling out quietly in fear, "No!!!"
Marten is confident that there are no goblins in the vicinity, and that the lean-to will offer protection from any wild creatures that might wander past in the night. There are bears in the vicinity, but your party will be as safe at least as is possible, to pass the night in this place.
The night comes and goes, and your party is unmolested by passing beasts or creatures.
Dawn comes, and you may all benefit from a long rest.
What now?
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Berry sleeps well under the thin roof of the lean-to. It feels much closer to nature than a stuffy tavern. Berry still feels bruised but his wounds have mostly closed and are in a process of healing after he was finally able to care for them intensively. In the morning he tries to find some food, like berries and water (Survival: 5) but his focus isn’t great as he continues to ponder the failure of yesterday, or was it? Was it a failure? Sildar is free, worse for wear, true, but alive. And Gundren already wasn’t there when they arrived. Berry returns to the lean-to, commenting to his companions, “If Gundren isn’t with the goblins in the cave, perhaps we don’t really need to go there again.” He continues his reasoning, “Someone in Phandalin might know where this castle is. A castle is quite big and difficult to hide, someone must know. After the night’s rest, I think I care much less to what will happen to these goblins and their bosses. Sounds to me that Klarg and the other are going to take care of themselves and perhaps it is better to have them fight each other than leave only one directing the tribe, especially the goblin leader appears to be even more vicious than the bugbear.”
Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus ||
(OOC: I'm assuming that we're using standard healing rules so that everyone in the party is back at max HP in the morning, and everyone has one HD to spend on healing this day.)
"M'ybe y're right, Berry. The Cragmaws seemed lethal enough to me, even in small numbers!", Marten says ruefully. He doesn't like to contradict Berry, so he looks down at his boots and continues, "But what if y're wrong? One of them must know the location of Cragmaw Castle, and after our raid yesterday, they might abandon the cave. If we return to Phandalin now and can't find anyone else who knows, we could lose our best chance to find out more."
If anyone else wants to talk more about trying to make a second raid on the Cragmaw Cave before returning to Phandalin, Marten offers:
"I reckon that we already killed...", he pauses to count on his fingers, his lips moving silently for a moment as he recalls yesterday's fights, "13 of 'em, right? Plus those 4 wolves that they had starved, th' poor creatures. Now, by my count, that last chamber by the pool just had Klarg, 3 goblins, and at least 1 wolf. From what Sildar said last night, this Yeenik has about 10 more goblins with him. But it sounds like Yeenik and Klarg are uneasy allies, just as willing to stab each other in the back as to help. M'ybe we could strike a deal with one of the two so that if we eliminate one group, we don't have to deal with the other."
Marten is optimistic about their chances if they return to the cave: "If we go back today, we already know the layout of the main tunnel and the chambers on the right-hand side, mostly. That'll make it easier to make a good plan and get everyone into position. If Mistress Daphyra will give us her goddess's blessing again, we could even sneak in without torches this time, which Klarg and the goblins probably don't realize."
Daphyra nods slowly, but not terribly enthusiastically. "My gifts from the goddess are happily shared, Marten. I agree with you that it may be useful to return in case we can find information, but we need to plan carefully how we can build on each others' skills and be strategic as a group."
Past characters:
Cariadne - Forest of Celador
Daphyra Fuffletail - The City of Cats
DM - Geek Legends - Wild beyond the Witchlight
Leela Steadystone - Adventures in the Sands
Mirri Goldenhorn - Journeys through the Radiant Citadel
Lola Smythe-Whyte - Larkin Expedition
Daphyra - Deathworld: Lost Mine of Phandelver
Vanja - Binder's Hold and the Problem with the Mine