Marten first asks Elsa shyly, "Y'all right, Miss Elsa?" He keeps his distance but glances at her neck to be sure that the Redbrand didn't cut her.
"Thank you Mr Marten, I am all right," Elsa answers bravely. "I've dealt with their like before and it's only a bruise on my cheek that'll go away quick... Oh, gosh, MISS DAPHYRA! My cheek doesn't hurt anymore, even! I'm making an offerin to Bastet this evenin and that's for sure!"
His only question after hearing about the Black Spider and the bugbears is: "How many other Redbrands are there, d'you know? And how many bugbears did this Black Spider send?"
"Mebbe uhh, we're not so good with numbers. Fifteen? Twenty more Redbrands? And three or four bugbears. I can't tell em apart. I try not to look at em. Their bugeyes give me the creeps."
Marten suggests putting the men in manacles and leaving them at the Stonehill Inn for a while. With the dead bodies somewhat hidden, the party may have a few hours before anyone else notices that some of the Redbrands have gone missing.
"No! Not inside," Linene answers in a harsh whisper. "I will not have these ruffians and their blood, dead or alive all over my floors and everywhere else for Pip to find when he comes home from his schoolin. Which'll be soon," she continues, eying the position of the sun. "Mr. Marten, you have much to learn about children."
"Now, don't be too hard on him, Linene," Mr. Stonehill interjects, softly, but firmly. "They all just showed they can do a lot to help us all out. A bit o blood. Well, sometimes there's a price to pay to keep the wolves at the gate and not let em in. Would you rather have the rest of them Redbrands walking down the hallway freely and lookin for revenge?"
Mrs Stonewall shakes her head sorrowfully. "But can't you put them... in the stable instead? No one will look for them there."
"they will be after us. they outnumber us. and bugbears are a nasty fight if they get the drop on you. also even pathetic brigands such as these are dangerous in numbers. we are not safe, and we need to fix that, either disappear, or fortify. neither will be easy. but staying here? in this inn? not going to work, which reminds me, you lot might want to make sure this glasstaff doesnt blame the Stonehill's" vidruth speaks in a rapid, slightly low voice, both scared and angry, but determined "and i need to get around ten one pound weights, something like a pot iron ball would be cheap and easy to get made, and effective"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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
Daphyra "helps" Marten with the bodies, but in reality trails behind him murmuring prayers over the dead and letting him do the heavy work. Probably getting in his way more than anything else.
She checks in on Elsa and the others. Do they need healing more than a short rest? (Medicine 14)
She mutters to herself about being taken by surprise, and gives herself a Vigilant Blessing, removing it from anyone else if they still had it.
Nosam helps the others with the clean up around the courtyard. "I wasn't trying to start all that, I just came down and tried to get 'em to leave the folks alone. Glad you showed up when ya did, startin' to get a bit hairy for me." Nosam tries to make light of the squabble, but he is focused on the next task. "How ya thinkin' we oughta handle the next batch of the reds?"
Marten asks, "Berry, you still got those manacles? We could lock 'em up for a bit while we decide what to do next. Don't want 'em runnin' off to Glasstaff t' raise the alarm."
"I believe so," replies Berry to Marten after he rounded up the Redbrands with Kiselina and runs to bring the manacles from his pack from his room. "We're in a prickle now. So you say we should lay off the cargo mission to the cave? It will put the cargo at risk to be stolen. But, you're right, if we give them time, they will surely find out who opposed them here and they will be better prepared."
She checks in on Elsa and the others. Do they need healing more than a short rest? (Medicine 14)
Thanks to Daphyra’s Twilight Sanctuary, both Umberto and Elsa are physically completely recovered. Umberto is a little dizzy, but Daphyra determines the dizziness will pass soon enough.
"I wasn't trying to start all that, I just came down and tried to get 'em to leave the folks alone. Glad you showed up when ya did, startin' to get a bit hairy for me." Nosam tries to make light of the squabble, but he is focused on the next task. "How ya thinkin' we oughta handle the next batch of the reds?"
Kiselina begins, “Master Nosam, I humbly apologize for any doubt that had entered my thoughts about your involvement against what I perceived as a legitimate lawful organization. The Redbrands, that is to say. With all that happened, and by their own admission, I can now see that I was wrong in my assessment. I hope that I may yet earn your goodwill once again, and that you will honor me by fighting alongside to provide justice against these oppressors.
"We're in a prickle now. So you say we should lay off the cargo mission to the cave? It will put the cargo at risk to be stolen. But, you're right, if we give them time, they will surely find out who opposed them here and they will be better prepared."
“I do believe that addressing the Redbrands sooner rather than later is a better course of action. If we go to get the cargo now, the Redbrands will surely be better prepared against us. The goods are just stuff. I fear for a retaliation against the population of Phandalin if we delay. The Redbrands are as unprepared for us right now as they are going to be.”
"they will be after us. they outnumber us. and bugbears are a nasty fight if they get the drop on you. also even pathetic brigands such as these are dangerous in numbers. we are not safe, and we need to fix that, either disappear, or fortify. neither will be easy. but staying here? in this inn? not going to work, which reminds me, you lot might want to make sure this glasstaff doesnt blame the Stonehill's"
“My choice is to take the fight to the Redbrands in the manor house. I can not disappear while the good people are threatened. And I know of no place to fortify against any potential retaliation. I agree that staying longer at the Stonehill’s is no longer an option. We have already jeopardized their safety. And Glassstaff can’t blame the Stonehills if we take the fight to them we may even determine more about the Black Spider.”
Addressing the Stonehills, “If we can leave our ‘friends’ tied up in the stable, it would help us with a raid on their compound. If they behave until we return, and their information is true, then I would be willing to advocate for their exile. While not a great reward, (here he turns to the two detained) it would be a better than allowing mob rule determine their fate.”
After any further discussions, Kiselina goes to get his things in preparation for whatever actions the group decides. He knows he alone can not take on the Redbrands, but also is aware that others may hold reservations about taking the fight to the enemy. It’s a decision for the group.
Berry shrugs, "I'm not really attached to the cargo and it won't go anywhere alone. These Reds, however, will come for us and I think it is better to get the first blow." He joins Kiselina to find his pack and returns to the courtyard, where he addresses his wounds from the skirmish while he waits for everyone to get ready. (Please, let us know if we get a short rest.)
“But what to do with it now? I had wanted to retrieve the goods from Cragmaw and look into the castle. However, this seems the immediate need. I can’t fathom a delay in dealing with the Redbrands and this ‘Glassstaff’. To do so would invite them to either reinforce their position or worse, jeopardize the citizenry of Phandalin. But what say you all on this matter?”
Marten agrees, "Yep. I'm with you, Kis'lina. It'll take the whole rest o' today to go to the caves and back. If we're goin' to raid Tresandor Manor, let's head out soon. We've heard o' two ways to get in: the secret tunnel that Berry 'n' me heard about from Mrs. Alderleaf and the secret door in the cellar of the manor hall. We've got some idea o' what we're facing: a handful o' bugbears, however many Redbrands are at the manor, this Glasstaff fellow, and whatever th' eye monster and these skeletons are."
Remembering her words from yesterday, Marten turns to Daphyra, "I'm sorry, Mistress Daphyra. Seems you were right 'bout these Redbrands. And it ties back t' tha' Black Spider, somehow, too! I guess we should've tackled th' Redbrands first thing. They're not jus' undisciplined bullies. More like a gang o' criminals."
Based on this fight at the Stonehills and what they've learned, Marten feels that it's only right for them to break the Redbrands' grip on Phandalin, but he waits to hear whether everyone else is "on board" with the idea of raiding Tresandor Manor.
Kiselina returns Marten’s rapier…in better condition than his lantern was.
Nosam helps the others with the clean up around the courtyard. "I wasn't trying to start all that, I just came down and tried to get 'em to leave the folks alone. Glad you showed up when ya did, startin' to get a bit hairy for me." Nosam tries to make light of the squabble, but he is focused on the next task. "How ya thinkin' we oughta handle the next batch of the reds?"
Marten claps Nosam on the shoulder. "Naw, Nosam," he says, "'t were a brave deed, defendin' Elsa and Umberto 'n' standin' up t' four men on yer own like that! I'm proud t' fight at yer side. Seems like Tymora's luck is with us today, arrivin' jus' in time like that."
"you lot might want to make sure this glasstaff doesnt blame the Stonehill's" vidruth speaks in a rapid, slightly low voice, both scared and angry, but determined "and i need to get around ten one pound weights, something like a pot iron ball would be cheap and easy to get made, and effective"
Marten offers this idea, "Toblen could send word t'...I dunno...the Townmaster, m'ybe? Give notice that a band o' adventurers killed some Redbrands 'n' left a couple chained up in his stables. If he wait a while, we'll already be in the manor. It won't matter if it raises th' alarm, but it's pro'bly better for the Stonehills than havin' someone else findin' the captured Redbrands and bodies at his Inn."
To the latter comment, Marten says, "We've got some time t' get ready, but I wouldn' push it too long. Half an' hour, m'ybe? I'm ready as I stand, so I can go to Barthen's 'n' ask 'im t' delay the wagon 'til tomorrow while you all gather yer gear."
Marten suggests putting the men in manacles and leaving them at the Stonehill Inn for a while. With the dead bodies somewhat hidden, the party may have a few hours before anyone else notices that some of the Redbrands have gone missing.
"No! Not inside," Linene answers in a harsh whisper. "I will not have these ruffians and their blood, dead or alive all over my floors and everywhere else for Pip to find when he comes home from his schoolin. Which'll be soon," she continues, eying the position of the sun. "Mr. Marten, you have much to learn about children."
"Now, don't be too hard on him, Linene," Mr. Stonehill interjects, softly, but firmly. "They all just showed they can do a lot to help us all out. A bit o blood. Well, sometimes there's a price to pay to keep the wolves at the gate and not let em in. Would you rather have the rest of them Redbrands walking down the hallway freely and lookin for revenge?"
Mrs Stonewall shakes her head sorrowfully. "But can't you put them... in the stable instead? No one will look for them there."
"Aye, jus' so, ma'am," Marten says. "We can use the stables, but we'll have to find somethin' solid 'n' heavy there to chain 'em to. Wouldn't want 'em to run off!"
Marten suggests that while they get ready, various members of the party stop by the stables to check on the two captive Redbrands. That way, the captives are less likely to try to escape but won't realize at first when the whole party heads to Tresandor Manor.
"I wasn't trying to start all that, I just came down and tried to get 'em to leave the folks alone. Glad you showed up when ya did, startin' to get a bit hairy for me." Nosam tries to make light of the squabble, but he is focused on the next task. "How ya thinkin' we oughta handle the next batch of the reds?"
Kiselina begins, “Master Nosam, I humbly apologize for any doubt that had entered my thoughts about your involvement against what I perceived as a legitimate lawful organization. The Redbrands, that is to say. With all that happened, and by their own admission, I can now see that I was wrong in my assessment. I hope that I may yet earn your goodwill once again, and that you will honor me by fighting alongside to provide justice against these oppressors.
"Kiselina, no offense taken at all. I can only imagine what the scene looked like as all of ya arrived."
"Aye, jus' so, ma'am," Marten says. "We can use the stables, but we'll have to find somethin' solid 'n' heavy there to chain 'em to. Wouldn't want 'em to run off!"
Marten suggests that while they get ready, various members of the party stop by the stables to check on the two captive Redbrands. That way, the captives are less likely to try to escape but won't realize at first when the whole party heads to Tresandor Manor.
"Sounds like a solid idea to me Mister Marten. I'll check on 'em in a few and then I'll be good to roll out. I's ready to go before all this ruckus, might grab me a bite at the inn 'til we all good."
The Stonehills and Barthen —whose feelings about the Redbrands you already know — are made to understand your plan. Toblen and Elmar agree to take turns guarding the prisoners. Trilena walks down to Sister Garaele and tells her what’s happening. The sister agrees to keep watch over the children “until this blows over.” After ensuring Sildar continues to heal, she says she will take them on a short hike to a nearby forest meadow she knows to be safe and protected to teach them about herbs with health-giving properties.
Our heroes, meanwhile, collect the tools of their trade from their rooms at the inn, and, entering the lion’s den, so to speak, make their way to the Redbrands’ stronghold, the old abandoned Manor on the hill.
"marten, you said you had some information on the redbrands you wanted to tell us away from prying ears, id say we are away now" vidruth speaks quietly as he searches for a rock, preferably weighing a bit over one pound, although up to five would be fine (nature 11, or survival 1(2-1))
"this prisoners thing is going to backfire you know" he informs kiselina, sstanding slightly behind him and speaking in hushed tones "i know you had to, but i wish you didnt"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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
"marten, you said you had some information on the redbrands you wanted to tell us away from prying ears, id say we are away now" vidruth speaks quietly as he searches for a rock, preferably weighing a bit over one pound, although up to five would be fine (nature 11, or survival 1(2-1))
"this prisoners thing is going to backfire you know" he informs kiselina, sstanding slightly behind him and speaking in hushed tones "i know you had to, but i wish you didnt"
(OOC: No roll needed. There are rocks all over this mining town. Vidruth finds one of a suitable size and heft.)
(OCC: I missed that in cross-posting yesterday. Marten had said something about leaving in half-an-hour, but if Berry needs to heal, Marten is fine with waiting an hour / Short Rest between the fight at the Stonehill Inn and heading out to Tresandor Manor. He doesn't need it, but he'd like Berry to have a chance to heal.)
"marten, you said you had some information on the redbrands you wanted to tell us away from prying ears, id say we are away now" vidruth speaks quietly as he searches for a rock, preferably weighing a bit over one pound, although up to five would be fine (nature 11, or survival 1(2-1))
Marten says, "Well, we've learned plenty from them two Redbrands. So...it hardly seems to matter now. Berry 'n' I also heard about their secret tunnel from Qelline Alderleaf. I reckon I've heard enough to lead us to it once we get 'round th' south side o' Tresandor Manor. Sounds like a 'back door' right to th' Redbrands' base. But the Alderleaf boy was chased away from it, so we'll prob'ly have to get past some guards to get in that way."
Toblen and Elmar agree to take turns guarding the prisoners.
Marten thanks them and says, "Expect to hear from us again 'fore sundown. If not..." He shrugs uncomfortably. Then nods and joins his companions.
Our heroes, meanwhile, collect the tools of their trade from their rooms at the inn, and, entering the lion’s den, so to speak, make their way to the Redbrands’ stronghold, the old abandoned Manor on the hill.
Equipping:
Before they leave, Marten takes a short sword and scabbard from one of the dead Redbrands.
He'll also exchange his "shoddy goblin knife" for the dagger used by the Redbrand he killed.
He brings another dagger (there were at least two) to Vidruth, asking, "Vidruth, were you lookin' for a dagger? Might as well take this one. He's not using it." He nods toward the spot in the courtyard where they laid the Redbrands' bodies.
Does Berry want the dead Redbrand's longsword, or does he prefer fighting with his scimitar and short sword?
Marten also points out that they have 6 red cloaks from the men who attacked the inn, and he suggests that they each put on a cloak before they get to Tresandor Manor. He's not sure whether there are any non-human Redbrands, so that ruse might not help them once they're in the Redbrands' lair. But wearing the cloaks might help them get closer to the entrance, for example, before they meet any resistance. From a distance at least, Berry, Marten, and Nosam (at the front of their regular order) might pass for a group of men. And even inside the base, wearing the red cloaks might cause some confusion among their opponents.
Which entrance will you use?
Marten votes for using the secret tunnel below the manor, but maybe that's just because he learned about it from the pleasant Alderleaf woman. His only concern is that it might bring them in contact with the "eye monster."
Marten's primary focus is on freeing the Philander prisoners "near the old crypts" and hopefully capturing Glasstaff so that they can break up the Redbrands and find out more about the Black Spider.
Marten votes for using the secret tunnel below the manor, but maybe that's just because he learned about it from the pleasant Alderleaf woman. His only concern is that it might bring them in contact with the "eye monster."
Marten's primary focus is on freeing the Philander prisoners "near the old crypts" and hopefully capturing Glasstaff so that they can break up the Redbrands and find out more about the Black Spider.
Marten’s priorities line up nicely with Kiselina’s and he’s in agreement. He’s just a bit unsure of the layout of the manor and where these objectives are in relationship to each other. Perhaps after he returns he visits the detainees to get some clarification. “If we enter from the secret entrance on the south side (heading north) we will eventually need to turn left (west) to get to Glassstaff’s chamber? Where are the crypts from the secret entrance (with the skeletons and prisoners) are they on the same level? And the eye-monster guards the lower level, is that the same level as the secret entrance (and Glassstaff) or is there something beneath that level as well? Or, asked another way, how many levels are there below the manor house ground floor?”
Kiselina: “If we enter from the secret entrance on the south side (heading north) we will eventually need to turn left (west) to get to Glassstaff’s chamber? Where are the crypts from the secret entrance (with the skeletons and prisoners) are they on the same level? And the eye-monster guards the lower level, is that the same level as the secret entrance (and Glassstaff) or is there something beneath that level as well? Or, asked another way, how many levels are there below the manor house ground floor?”
You all take a short rest.
You continue grilling the Redbrands, who have now grown truculent and less cooperative. Moreover, they are not terribly smart. From their annoyed answers regarding the various parts of the hideout, you are able to form an incomplete mental image, which looks like this:
You’ll have to take this map as it is. I will answer no questions about it, and no further information may be gained from your captives, even unto death. While it may have all seemed clear when the Redbrands told you about the layout, it quickly becomes apparent that you’re not 100% what connects to what. You realize this only when you step inside.
“I would like to try the secret entrance the boy found. I think it should be less guarded. And it’s a great idea to take the capes, perhaps we can confuse them a little and it might be just enough to get a jump on them,” adds Berry with a smile. Obviously, he likes to surprise people and just imagining it solicited a small giggle. Enthusiastically, he tries if any of the cloaks fits his small stature. Then, he looks over the redbrands’ belongings if there is a dagger or two for him, too.
"Thank you Mr Marten, I am all right," Elsa answers bravely. "I've dealt with their like before and it's only a bruise on my cheek that'll go away quick... Oh, gosh, MISS DAPHYRA! My cheek doesn't hurt anymore, even! I'm making an offerin to Bastet this evenin and that's for sure!"
"Mebbe uhh, we're not so good with numbers. Fifteen? Twenty more Redbrands? And three or four bugbears. I can't tell em apart. I try not to look at em. Their bugeyes give me the creeps."
"No! Not inside," Linene answers in a harsh whisper. "I will not have these ruffians and their blood, dead or alive all over my floors and everywhere else for Pip to find when he comes home from his schoolin. Which'll be soon," she continues, eying the position of the sun. "Mr. Marten, you have much to learn about children."
"Now, don't be too hard on him, Linene," Mr. Stonehill interjects, softly, but firmly. "They all just showed they can do a lot to help us all out. A bit o blood. Well, sometimes there's a price to pay to keep the wolves at the gate and not let em in. Would you rather have the rest of them Redbrands walking down the hallway freely and lookin for revenge?"
Mrs Stonewall shakes her head sorrowfully. "But can't you put them... in the stable instead? No one will look for them there."
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
"they will be after us. they outnumber us. and bugbears are a nasty fight if they get the drop on you. also even pathetic brigands such as these are dangerous in numbers. we are not safe, and we need to fix that, either disappear, or fortify. neither will be easy. but staying here? in this inn? not going to work, which reminds me, you lot might want to make sure this glasstaff doesnt blame the Stonehill's" vidruth speaks in a rapid, slightly low voice, both scared and angry, but determined "and i need to get around ten one pound weights, something like a pot iron ball would be cheap and easy to get made, and effective"
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
Daphyra "helps" Marten with the bodies, but in reality trails behind him murmuring prayers over the dead and letting him do the heavy work. Probably getting in his way more than anything else.
She checks in on Elsa and the others. Do they need healing more than a short rest? (Medicine 14)
She mutters to herself about being taken by surprise, and gives herself a Vigilant Blessing, removing it from anyone else if they still had it.
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
Nosam helps the others with the clean up around the courtyard. "I wasn't trying to start all that, I just came down and tried to get 'em to leave the folks alone. Glad you showed up when ya did, startin' to get a bit hairy for me." Nosam tries to make light of the squabble, but he is focused on the next task. "How ya thinkin' we oughta handle the next batch of the reds?"
"I believe so," replies Berry to Marten after he rounded up the Redbrands with Kiselina and runs to bring the manacles from his pack from his room. "We're in a prickle now. So you say we should lay off the cargo mission to the cave? It will put the cargo at risk to be stolen. But, you're right, if we give them time, they will surely find out who opposed them here and they will be better prepared."
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||
(OOC: Vidruth could try looking in the Lionshield Coster and at the smithy for such an object. )
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Thanks to Daphyra’s Twilight Sanctuary, both Umberto and Elsa are physically completely recovered. Umberto is a little dizzy, but Daphyra determines the dizziness will pass soon enough.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Kiselina begins, “Master Nosam, I humbly apologize for any doubt that had entered my thoughts about your involvement against what I perceived as a legitimate lawful organization. The Redbrands, that is to say. With all that happened, and by their own admission, I can now see that I was wrong in my assessment. I hope that I may yet earn your goodwill once again, and that you will honor me by fighting alongside to provide justice against these oppressors.
“I do believe that addressing the Redbrands sooner rather than later is a better course of action. If we go to get the cargo now, the Redbrands will surely be better prepared against us. The goods are just stuff. I fear for a retaliation against the population of Phandalin if we delay. The Redbrands are as unprepared for us right now as they are going to be.”
“My choice is to take the fight to the Redbrands in the manor house. I can not disappear while the good people are threatened. And I know of no place to fortify against any potential retaliation. I agree that staying longer at the Stonehill’s is no longer an option. We have already jeopardized their safety. And Glassstaff can’t blame the Stonehills if we take the fight to them we may even determine more about the Black Spider.”
Addressing the Stonehills, “If we can leave our ‘friends’ tied up in the stable, it would help us with a raid on their compound. If they behave until we return, and their information is true, then I would be willing to advocate for their exile. While not a great reward, (here he turns to the two detained) it would be a better than allowing mob rule determine their fate.”
After any further discussions, Kiselina goes to get his things in preparation for whatever actions the group decides. He knows he alone can not take on the Redbrands, but also is aware that others may hold reservations about taking the fight to the enemy. It’s a decision for the group.
Berry shrugs, "I'm not really attached to the cargo and it won't go anywhere alone. These Reds, however, will come for us and I think it is better to get the first blow." He joins Kiselina to find his pack and returns to the courtyard, where he addresses his wounds from the skirmish while he waits for everyone to get ready. (Please, let us know if we get a short rest.)
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||
Daphyra nods. "I believe they will retaliate, so a quick attack would be best."
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
Marten agrees, "Yep. I'm with you, Kis'lina. It'll take the whole rest o' today to go to the caves and back. If we're goin' to raid Tresandor Manor, let's head out soon. We've heard o' two ways to get in: the secret tunnel that Berry 'n' me heard about from Mrs. Alderleaf and the secret door in the cellar of the manor hall. We've got some idea o' what we're facing: a handful o' bugbears, however many Redbrands are at the manor, this Glasstaff fellow, and whatever th' eye monster and these skeletons are."
Remembering her words from yesterday, Marten turns to Daphyra, "I'm sorry, Mistress Daphyra. Seems you were right 'bout these Redbrands. And it ties back t' tha' Black Spider, somehow, too! I guess we should've tackled th' Redbrands first thing. They're not jus' undisciplined bullies. More like a gang o' criminals."
Based on this fight at the Stonehills and what they've learned, Marten feels that it's only right for them to break the Redbrands' grip on Phandalin, but he waits to hear whether everyone else is "on board" with the idea of raiding Tresandor Manor.
(OOC: LOL! 😆)
Marten claps Nosam on the shoulder. "Naw, Nosam," he says, "'t were a brave deed, defendin' Elsa and Umberto 'n' standin' up t' four men on yer own like that! I'm proud t' fight at yer side. Seems like Tymora's luck is with us today, arrivin' jus' in time like that."
Marten offers this idea, "Toblen could send word t'...I dunno...the Townmaster, m'ybe? Give notice that a band o' adventurers killed some Redbrands 'n' left a couple chained up in his stables. If he wait a while, we'll already be in the manor. It won't matter if it raises th' alarm, but it's pro'bly better for the Stonehills than havin' someone else findin' the captured Redbrands and bodies at his Inn."
To the latter comment, Marten says, "We've got some time t' get ready, but I wouldn' push it too long. Half an' hour, m'ybe? I'm ready as I stand, so I can go to Barthen's 'n' ask 'im t' delay the wagon 'til tomorrow while you all gather yer gear."
"Aye, jus' so, ma'am," Marten says. "We can use the stables, but we'll have to find somethin' solid 'n' heavy there to chain 'em to. Wouldn't want 'em to run off!"
Marten suggests that while they get ready, various members of the party stop by the stables to check on the two captive Redbrands. That way, the captives are less likely to try to escape but won't realize at first when the whole party heads to Tresandor Manor.
"Sounds like a solid idea to me Mister Marten. I'll check on 'em in a few and then I'll be good to roll out. I's ready to go before all this ruckus, might grab me a bite at the inn 'til we all good."
The Stonehills and Barthen —whose feelings about the Redbrands you already know — are made to understand your plan. Toblen and Elmar agree to take turns guarding the prisoners. Trilena walks down to Sister Garaele and tells her what’s happening. The sister agrees to keep watch over the children “until this blows over.” After ensuring Sildar continues to heal, she says she will take them on a short hike to a nearby forest meadow she knows to be safe and protected to teach them about herbs with health-giving properties.
Our heroes, meanwhile, collect the tools of their trade from their rooms at the inn, and, entering the lion’s den, so to speak, make their way to the Redbrands’ stronghold, the old abandoned Manor on the hill.
Which entrance will you use?
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
"marten, you said you had some information on the redbrands you wanted to tell us away from prying ears, id say we are away now" vidruth speaks quietly as he searches for a rock, preferably weighing a bit over one pound, although up to five would be fine (nature 11, or survival 1(2-1))
"this prisoners thing is going to backfire you know" he informs kiselina, sstanding slightly behind him and speaking in hushed tones "i know you had to, but i wish you didnt"
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
(OOC: No roll needed. There are rocks all over this mining town. Vidruth finds one of a suitable size and heft.)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
(OCC: I missed that in cross-posting yesterday. Marten had said something about leaving in half-an-hour, but if Berry needs to heal, Marten is fine with waiting an hour / Short Rest between the fight at the Stonehill Inn and heading out to Tresandor Manor. He doesn't need it, but he'd like Berry to have a chance to heal.)
Marten says, "Well, we've learned plenty from them two Redbrands. So...it hardly seems to matter now. Berry 'n' I also heard about their secret tunnel from Qelline Alderleaf. I reckon I've heard enough to lead us to it once we get 'round th' south side o' Tresandor Manor. Sounds like a 'back door' right to th' Redbrands' base. But the Alderleaf boy was chased away from it, so we'll prob'ly have to get past some guards to get in that way."
Marten thanks them and says, "Expect to hear from us again 'fore sundown. If not..." He shrugs uncomfortably. Then nods and joins his companions.
Equipping:
Marten also points out that they have 6 red cloaks from the men who attacked the inn, and he suggests that they each put on a cloak before they get to Tresandor Manor. He's not sure whether there are any non-human Redbrands, so that ruse might not help them once they're in the Redbrands' lair. But wearing the cloaks might help them get closer to the entrance, for example, before they meet any resistance. From a distance at least, Berry, Marten, and Nosam (at the front of their regular order) might pass for a group of men. And even inside the base, wearing the red cloaks might cause some confusion among their opponents.
Marten votes for using the secret tunnel below the manor, but maybe that's just because he learned about it from the pleasant Alderleaf woman. His only concern is that it might bring them in contact with the "eye monster."
Marten's primary focus is on freeing the Philander prisoners "near the old crypts" and hopefully capturing Glasstaff so that they can break up the Redbrands and find out more about the Black Spider.
Marten’s priorities line up nicely with Kiselina’s and he’s in agreement. He’s just a bit unsure of the layout of the manor and where these objectives are in relationship to each other. Perhaps after he returns he visits the detainees to get some clarification.
“If we enter from the secret entrance on the south side (heading north) we will eventually need to turn left (west) to get to Glassstaff’s chamber? Where are the crypts from the secret entrance (with the skeletons and prisoners) are they on the same level? And the eye-monster guards the lower level, is that the same level as the secret entrance (and Glassstaff) or is there something beneath that level as well? Or, asked another way, how many levels are there below the manor house ground floor?”
You all take a short rest.
You continue grilling the Redbrands, who have now grown truculent and less cooperative. Moreover, they are not terribly smart. From their annoyed answers regarding the various parts of the hideout, you are able to form an incomplete mental image, which looks like this:
You’ll have to take this map as it is. I will answer no questions about it, and no further information may be gained from your captives, even unto death. While it may have all seemed clear when the Redbrands told you about the layout, it quickly becomes apparent that you’re not 100% what connects to what. You realize this only when you step inside.
Which entrance will you use? :)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Daphyra would like to pick up a dagger from one of the miscreants before they leave, if there are any lying around.
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
“I would like to try the secret entrance the boy found. I think it should be less guarded. And it’s a great idea to take the capes, perhaps we can confuse them a little and it might be just enough to get a jump on them,” adds Berry with a smile. Obviously, he likes to surprise people and just imagining it solicited a small giggle. Enthusiastically, he tries if any of the cloaks fits his small stature. Then, he looks over the redbrands’ belongings if there is a dagger or two for him, too.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || b'Reh - Stig Cleric - Humblewood || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Zephirah - Demonic Bard - Sands || Merry - Gifted Surgeon - Short || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan - Dwarf Dragon - Wuxian ||