ArdFionn Lightfoot – a female Elven Outrider from the Laurelorn Forest

Galadaeg Shadowhelm – a male Elven Hunter from the Laurelorn Forest

Gustav Brundle – a male human Tradesman (brewer) from the village of Pritzstock,

Middenland

It's hard to find a city or village in the Middlelands that Gustav hasn't visited. He is obsessed. Obsessed with traveling the lands in search of the best ingredients for his ale. The soon to be legendary "Brundle Brew".

His obsession began about 10 years ago. Gustav and his younger brother Thomas worked up the courage to hop the fence at Old Man Covington's farm and sneak off with a keg of his ale. Covington was an amateur brewmeister and always had a few full kegs stacked near his barn. The two boys ran off to their nearby hiding spot in the woods to partake of their ill gotten brew. Before long they were inebriated beyond belief. Surprisingly nothing major happened and they ended up sleeping it off. But from that day forward Gustav had a new best friend. ALE!

Surprisingly he isn't a drunk. He loves ale. More than most things. Yet it's not the inebriation he seeks, but the taste of a well crafted brew. Over the past years he has spent his free time learning about brewing and using his knowledge in herbs to assist in that endeavor. He loves making ale and he loves sampling the ales of the villages and cities he frequents. His dream is to brew the perfect pint.

In his travels to seek out the knowledge he needs and the ingredients he'll use he has spent many an hour in the dark pubs of the Middlelands. There he savors sips of the regions ales. Making notes in his journal as the hours fly by. In these hours he's learned an important thing about ale. The best side dish to good ale is a good story. He loves listening to tipsy travelers tell tales of their voyages. With each pint they get more and more exaggerated. He'll join in the revelry usually, egging them on until the story has become so outlandish that few are able to stop from laughing at its absurdity. A tall tale and a pint of the Empire's finest. Food for the Gods!

Konrad Feldstatler – a male human Squire from the village of Luftberg, Nordland

LogazNir of Rangenhof – a male Dwarven Pit Fighter from the Village of Rangenhof,

Talabecland

Pretty Things

The Gathering

It is Konigstag, the first of Pflugzeit, in the year I.C. 2522. You have just entered the riverside Inn of the Strutting Cock, just one day’s travel from the small town of Gersdorf in southern Talabecland. The inn sits on the River Stir.

You have left your home for the first time and find yourself traveling alone. You find the inn a fairly lively place. Local farmers, woodsmen, herdsmen and the like have congregated in large groups, exchanging news and gossip with boatmen and traders.

After loudly welcoming you as a newcomer, the rotund innkeeper introduces himself as Josef Haarig. He asks your name, home village or town and your destination. He then directs you to a table where other newcomers are seated (this will be the other members of the party).

He leans close. “The roads are quite dangerous for a lone traveler, and there are strange folk about. I would recommend against wandering by yourself unless you fancy losing your possessions and, perhaps, your life. The ones over there,” he gestures towards the table where each of the player characters have been seated,” are headed in the same direction you are. You might want to introduce yourself so you can walk together.”

Please post your introductory posts.

Hail and well met. I am Galadaeg of the Shadowhelm, a hunter from fair Laurelorn Forest. I tracked a small warherd in this region recently, if they are still about, some company would not be amiss.

Seated before you is a slender elven woman with long copper red hair and deep silver eyes. She wears a leather jacket, a bow leans against her chair and a whip and sword hang from her hip. She is leaning back with her feet up on a nearby chair.
"Nice to meet you, ArdFionn Lightfoot, outrider." She casually tosses her hand out in greeting and gives your hand a quick shake. "Laurelorn Forest you say, I know the place. I also call the place home."

A lean yet grizzled dwarf approaches the table (at the prodding of the innkeeper) with a freshly foaming tankard in one hand. To an elf or human, the dwarf appears to be imitating one of those large ice birds; to a dwarf, it is the prideful gate of a sturdy warrior. What at first appeared to be wrinkles are realized to be an assortment of scars, similar indeed to the chips that adorn the head of the well-used great axe that peeks over his shoulder. Hair that seemed grey likewise becomes a faded blond. "If'n yer all headin' out o' this place, I'm all fer travelin' with like-minded folk. Least fer a time." With that, the dwarf slides onto an empty chair and takes a long draw from his tankard. Pulling the it away, he sputters from behind a foam soaked beard: "Oh, an' me name's LogazNir. _{Can't be forgettin' those courtesies.}"

There seems to be a good deal of lively conversation going on about you, and some groups are dicing for copper pennies, although the occasional silver shilling makes an appearance.

A young man approaches the table, moving awkwardly around the gambling crowd. He is clearly wearing a shirt of mail and a mail coif has been pushed back off his head. He also wears a broadsword on his left hip and carries a short spear. The man's hair is black, short on top and very short on the sides. His face is good-looking and he has a noble bearing, though his nose is slightly too large for his face and he has large brown mole on his cheekbone. The young man also appears to have blue eyes, though one seems significantly darker than the other. As he approaches, you see that he is most likely in his early 20s at the oldest.
"Hello, my name is Konrad. I heard from the barkeep that you people are currently on the road. I would appreciate your company if you'd have me."

"Be sittin' down then, eh young Konrad? Ain't no use in standin' there like some witless halfling!" With that, the dwarf thumps his emptied tankard on the empty chair next to him, forgetting it was not empty at all, but host to a pair of delicate feet.

ArdFionn moves her feet at the last second, just as the mug comes thumping down. "Ah a true dwarf I see, always having to disturb a good sit. And no matter, I'd prefer to be moving along as soon as possible anyway, no use sitting here doing nothing like some bleedin' farmhand."

From his position leaning against the wall, Galadaeg cocks his head to one side and begins to listen. "Perhaps we should discover what seems to be concerning the townsfolk so we can prepare for our departure."

Waving his tankard about LogazNir replies gruffly to ArdFionn: "If'n yer feet weren't so danged small I might o' seen 'em there! A true elf--ever afraid o' some meat on 'er bones an' a lager in the gut!" With a hop, the dwarf is standing. But rather than head over to speak to the commoners, he heads for the innkeeper, his mug raised, calling for some more ale.

The bartender apologizes that the ale has run out, it being a busier evening than most. He does offer you a lager beer, however, for a muck, or brass as you might call it.

Konrad pulls up a chair and sits down. He examines his new companions, obviously uncomfortable.
"So...where are you all traveling? I've not spent much time with elves or dwarves before, so I know little of your ways."
Konrad speaks his Reikspiel slowly and deliberately.

Still listening with his eyes half closed, Galadaeg responds, "As long as you don't lift your hand against Athel Loren or Laurelorn, I shall not be offended. But don't call me 'Mr. Pointy Ears' either."
Actions: Make a perception test to try and overhear some gossip.

What Lies Ahead

A moment later, LogazNir "pridefully strides" up with another slopping tankard of ale. He plops down on an empty chair (checking it for feet first), and takes a long, noisy, pull. "'Tis the best swill I've had fer weeks!" he says, smacking his lips. "Ye know, ye look like you got a bit o' meat on ya. Ye know how to fight?" LoganNiz gives Konrad an appraising glance. "Cause if'n ye do, I'm lookin' fer a partner fer the pits. Good fun, if'n you like to fight, an' don't get yer head caved in!"

Konrad stares at the dwarf for a moment, unsure of if he's kidding or not.
"Well, I'm not sure that...well, I can't, you see? I'm a squire under Sir Garonstern. I'm sure he wouldn't approve of me fighting in the pits."
Konrad reaches for his own ale on the table but quickly realizes he does not have one. Sighing, he looks up at Logaznir.
"So, a pit-fighter, eh? Dangerous work. What brings you to the road?"

"Look 'round yerself. Seem like a good place to be bein' fightin' in the pits? First off- there ain't no pit! One in most bigger cities, 'course, but this place ain't at all big. I've done some pit fightin' already, but I'm needin' to find me a real crowd. Y'know, somewhere fancy like. I figure any directions good as any other, so if'n the barkeep yonder tells me this table's fer headin' out, then I'm to be goin' too." LogazNir takes a long look at everyone around the table, as if wondering how much trouble the group may cause, and whether they were worth it.
"So yer workin' fer some lord? Ye should come to the pits anyways. Can't be protectin' nobody if'n ye can't fight. No better place to learn than in them pits! But where's this lord now?" Without waiting for a reply, the dwarf finishes the ale off in a second, messy, gulp.

Konrad blushes slightly at the question.
"Honestly, I have no idea. He...well, he likes his drink. More than once, he's gotten lost in his cups. Drinks like a dwar...I mean, he drinks a lot, he does. Anyway, I about a week back or so, he tells me to check on the horses and go to bed while he went out for a few drinks and maybe to 'scrounge up some company.' That was the last I've seen of him."
Konrad listens in as the talk in the tavern turns to Heinz Gerber. He wracks his brain to figure out if he recognizes that name. He turns back to LogazNir.
"If he was dead or in prison, I figure I'd have heard around town. I'm thinking he had to get out of town fast, maybe. So now I'm looking for him."

ArdFionn sits quietly watching the banter go back and forth. She orders an ale as a barmaid goes by and awaits it's delivery.

ArdFionn accepts the lager beer for a penny after the shortage of ale is explained.
The main talk of the tavern this evening is someone named Heinz Gerber. The name moves from lip to lip around the entire place. At one point, in answer to an unheard question you hear Josef proudly state, “That’s right, we have Heinz Gerber locked up out back. A bounty hunter caught the scoundrel and brought him to the Strutting Cock. He’ll be back with the roadwardens in two days, and then they’ll take care of that outlaw for good!”

A week ago? Did his trail lead this way? or are you just searching towns at random? Perhaps this Heinz Gerber has sighted your liege on the road. He may be able to tell us something useful. As for me, I feel the need of some fresher air, would you care to come with me?" asks Galadaeg as he begins picking his way towards the door.

LogazNir hops down again from his perch and looks up at Konrad. "Might be that he's right, Konrad. No use in not askin' the fiend a few, now ain't there?" Before turning to follow the elf out, the dwarf waves for the other elf, ArdFionn, to follow along

The young man stands up. Leaning on his spear like a walking stick, Konrad starts heading for the door.
"Guess it couldn't hurt to ask."
Konrad turns to Galadaeg. "Who is this Heinz Gerber guy anyway?"

Hang ‘em High

The lock-up of the Strutting Cock appears to be nothing more than a pit in the ground with an iron grate over it. It’s behind the inn, near the privy. There is no guard but the grate is secured with an impressive lock. As soon as you get near the grate you hear “psst, pssst!” coming from below.

“Please, have pity on a poor wretch! My name is Emmerich Handler and I only came here from Gersdorf in the last fortnight seeking employment. No one would hire me so I was foraging near the Strutting Cock to try to find something to eat. Today I was set upon by a vicious bounty hunter. He beat me up and tied me up and said I was the outlaw Heinz Gerber. But I’m not! Please, you must help me before the roadwarden arrives, or they’ll hang me for sure.”

"About Heinz Gerber, you know as much as I. Whether his claim to be Emmerich Handler be true or false, he still may know news of your lord, go and ask what you will." whispers the elf dropping back to speak to the dwarf, "He appears weak and may be easily cowed, if he resists young Konrad, you may need to step in and be more menacing."

ArdFionn, slides the chair away with her feet and stands up with a lazy stretch. She tosses her bow up on her back, grabs her ale off the table and follows the others out to the back.
With a laugh "Hey, I wonder how many of the drunks have missed the privy." Looking down over the hole and at it occupant "That would explain the smell. Dang, boy I've been in bear caves that smelt bett'r en you."
Konrad observes the pit and the man down in it.
He speaks to his companions but loud enough for "Heinz" to hear.
"Desperate people make all kinds of stories. I'm sure someone can identify this man before he is wrongfully hanged, if his claim is true. Successful outlaws are clever about getting out of trouble. As well as getting innocent people in trouble."
Konrad looks straight at the man in the pit.
"Convince me"

With desperation in his voice, the prisoner says, “I have a wife and child in the town of Gersdorf. It isn’t far. If you could send word or go there yourself. My wife can vouch for my identity. We live next door to the Green Calf Inn. Tell Heidi I’m in trouble!”

OOC: What is the actual distance to this town?? Do any of us have access to horses??

Gersdorf is approximately 20 miles a way. Walking would not allow you to make it back before the roadwardens arrive. ArdFionn and Konrad each have a horse. Inquiries also discover you can catch a ride on a boat for 5 sp per person. This would allow you to return early in the evening, as long as you were up early to catch the first boat. Josef can make the arrangements if you like.

LogazNir plops down against the wall of the tavern. " Maybe we be helpin' him out? He ain't gonna escape if'n we go find this woman, an' if'n he's really who he says he is, we can't just be lettin' him hang. He aint worth a trip to the pits, he'll be a-killed fer sure." The dwarf turns his head and spits to the side. "Long as we don't take no stinkin' ponies."

((OOC: My wife is getting back from Greece in a few hours, so likely I won't be posting again until late tomorrow. Later still for you East Coasters.))

I agree, he isn't going anywhere, and it seems that we shall get little else out of him, although I am not opposed to trying. I suggest we take the boat, I heard in the tavern that bandits have been quite active on the road lately, and splitting up could be dangerous."

Aye, lets take a little trip shall we, might save an innocent mans life, or not. Either way we get a bit of a trip out of the deal."
"Let's go make arrangements for the trip."

Konrad nods in agreement.
"I wouldn't want the wrong man to swing for a crime he didn't commit. If this man is telling the truth, we'll need to see what this bounty hunter is all about and why he's snatching up innocent men. But let's not put the cart before the horse."
Konrad starts back to the tavern with the rest of his companions to make boat arrangements.
"Speaking of horses, I think those of us who have them should bring them, if they fit on the boat. I fight much better on horseback. And if something happens with the boat or river, it would be good if some of us could rush back to this town with the truth."
Konrad turns to face disagreement from LogazNir, who seems to dislike ponies.

"Aye, horseback is where I belong. We bring them, then if we have too we can split up and we can ride back if needed. I don't like being caught without an alternate means of travel."

"To each their own, should we take the bounty hunter with us before he leaves the region?"

The bounty hunter is fetching the roadwardens and will return with them in two days. It will cost double for the mounts to be transported by river.

OOC: What is the cost for a horse rental?? or as a last resort, to buy??

A pony usually costs 50 gold crown, a riding horse 80. There are no rental services available.

LogazNir is deathly affraid of being on the back of a horse. Something about "walkin' under me own powers, ain't on some stinkin' dumb beast." He is a little easier with the though of a wagon (as it is a machine, not an animal), and believes that if we have to bring back the man's wife, it may be easier on her to sit in the wagon than to ride behind one of the others.

The only way you would make the trip in time is to travel both ways by river, or a hard run by horse.

"I like that idea, any other opinions?"

Konrad considers the different factors.
"I suggest we take the boat both ways but those whom have horses shall take them onboard if they choose to spend the coin. That way, if the boat springs a leak, the boatmaster gets sick, or anything like that goes wrong, we'll have the horses to get some of us back in time to save this man, if he is indeed wrongly charged. I suggest we get moving."
Konrad, for a moment, looks like the confident knight he may one day become. It lasts for an instant, however, and the awkward young man reappears.

Looking back down in the hole at the filthy man."You sit tight there, not that you have much choice. Well find this Heidi of your and see if your story checks out. Hey what’s she look like anyway?"
After waiting for a brief description ArdFionn turns back toward the others and gives Konrad a solid clap on the back.
"Right then, lets quit chatterin' and get to makin' the arrangements. Looks like you and me are the only ones with horses, love. Suppose we best be makin' arrangements for their trip as well. Don't know 'bout yours but mines never been to fond of being off solid ground."
While still talking she begins to walk toward the bar, dust kicking up around her feet.

"Konrad, I hope you can swim with all that armor on." says Galadaeg as he begins stalking his way back to the tavern, fingering a coin.

LogazNir looks sadly down. Not at the prisoner, but at his empty tankard and his light purse. This trip means less money to spend on the finer things in life! Still, the dwarf follows the others back into the tavern to make arrangements for the ferry ride.

Konrad turns to Galadaeg. "I doubt I will be able to. I don't plan on wearing if for the trip on the boat. But appreciate your concerns about my safety."

Josef helps you make the arrangements and bids you hurry, as a ferry is leaving very shortly. Unless you wish to make further arrangements you can get to the ferry without difficulty. The trip takes approximately 8 hours and follows a gentle bend of the River Stir to the North. Arriving at Gersdorf in the evening, Heidi Handler is easy enough to find. She asks what she can do for travelers such as yourselves?

Time: Evening, Konigstag, Pflugzeit 1, I.C. 2522

Location: The Village of Gersdorf

"Well for starters do you know a Heinz Gerber? Also is the man of the 'ouse here? We'd like to speak with 'im iffin that be possible."

The woman stares at you. “Heinz Gerber? No, I can’t say as I have. And my husband is away looking for work at the moment. What is this about?” Trepidation creeps into her voice.

I wonder if 'Heinz Gruber' has any disreputable friends in this town?" muses Galadaeg, making sure to keep out of view of the doorway.
Actions: Listen to discover if anyone/anything can be heard moving around inside the house.

(Galadaeg does hear movement within the house)

The woman stammers, “Who is this Heinz you keep speaking of, and is it Gerber or Gruber? My husband is Emmerich Handler and he will be coming through that door any moment now. He’s very big and strong and knows how to deal with ruffians!”

Whispering to LogazNir, "There seem to be more people inside, do you see a way we can get a look in there?"

"Ma'am, where did your husband go to find work? And please I'm not a ruffian, being a ruffian takes far to much energy. I take it that the person inside he hears runnin' 'bout is your little one. Could you please describe your husband to me."

“That’d be our daughter, Gretchen.” Heidi then proceeds to describe the man you saw in the pit at the Strutting Cock. “What’s wrong? What’s happened to Emmerich? What’s this all about?” she cries wringing her hands.

Konrad doesn't have much to offer in this line of questioning, but he does his best to look the part of a noble knight and less like a brigand.

Unfortunately, LogazNir looks very much the part of a ruffian. "Lemme be lookin'." the dwarf whispers, as quietly as he can. Then he slowly walks, in a very un-dwarflike and unconvincing nonchalant fashion, towards the corner of the house, and has a peek at the other wall, looking for a window.

"Oh for the love of... Ma'am your husband was captured by a bounty hunter, and is being held until the wardens get back tomorrow. The bounty Hunter said your husband was the infamous Heinz Gerber, my guess to collect the bounty without having to actually get the real guy. Happens all the time really. Can you and your daughter come up to the next town with us so you can identify him and try and prove his innocence. We need to leave on the next raft, or their gonna hang him."
ArdFionn looks a bit flustered at the show of emotion the woman is putting on and shuffles her feet a bit as a distraction, while she explains to the woman that her husband is probably going to be put to death.
"Why don't you go gather up a few things for you and your daughter and we'll go make arrangements for the boat. Oh and in case ya are able to clear his name, you may want to bring him a change of clothes, that pit was mighty ripe."

It would appear that Mr. Handler is who he claimed he is, I shall go and secure the boat for our return passage. Be sure to bring supplies for your return trip to your home."

LogazNir abandons his attempts at sneaking and rejoins the group. "Now whats with the crien'?" he mutters, "No respectin' dwarf woman folk would be doin' any such! She'd be gettin' 'er hands on ol' axes fer a fight!" Somewhat embarrassed, and a little disgusted, he turns and heads back to where the ferry sets out from.

Konrad looks at the woman with sympathy, realizing she is obviously worried and receiving few few assurances from the party.
"Ma'am, you have nothing to fear. If your husband has, indeed, been accused unjustly, he will come to no harm. I will personally see to it. My name is Konrad Feldstatler, squire to Sir Garonstern. You have a sworn sword to the Empire helping your cause. We will see that Sigmar's justice is done."
He steps close to comfort the woman if such a thing seems necessary.
"Gather what you need for the trip. We should be off."

Heidi handler takes in all the information and attention calmly. “Bounty hunter, you say? Hang him? I see. Pit? Yes, yes. Axes…, hmmm, I don’t remember where I-I-I put th-them” She faints in the gallant arms of a well placed Konrad Feldstatler.

She comes round easily enough and seems the picture of a determined farm woman. She calls Gretchen, gathers up some items and begins making supper! “The boat won’t be goin’ back ‘round that way till first light o’ morning. Might as well be comfortable and eat. You’ll like it I promise.”

After a delicious meal and a rest like you haven’t had since you left your own homes (maybe even better), you depart in the morning. On the way, Heidi meets some neighbours and hurriedly explains what is going on. Everyone is shocked and wishes her Shallya’s blessings. You get the impression that Emmerich handler is well-liked in his hometown.

The trip back to the Strutting Cock is uneventful, and you arrive in the afternoon.. The roadwardens are due back the very next morning.

Time: Afternoon, Angestag, Pflugzeit 2, I.C. 2522

Location: The Strutting Cock

Back at the Strutting Cock

"Thank ya, Ma'am. Your hospitality despite the circumstances is much obliged. You might want to leave the 'lil one here wit Konrad. See'n 'er daddy in a pit, isn't proper. I'll take ya round the back so you can see 'im."
ArdFionn seems to have warmed up a bit to the woman, after seeing the woman's resolve the previous day. ArdFionn begins to lead the woman round to the pit, when she looks back at Konrad.
"These two may need a moment, maybe you can show the 'lil one your horse. Not sure how mine is round knee biters, 'specially when I'm not round. But maybe show her how a knight rides a horse, or some such."

Konrad nods and snatches up the little girl, whom he has been playing with for the whole trip back to town.
"Let's go see Gorgon. Don't be scared of him, though. He's only mean to mutants and ratmen. You're not a ratgirl, are you? Hmmm, I'm not sure..."
He continues to play with Gretchen, but he watches ArdFionn leave with Heidi with concern.

At most, the woman gets looks of anticipation and satisfaction in place of actual "pleases" and "thank yous" from the dwarf. To ArdFionn he warns, darkly: "Ye'd do better to be holdin' yer tongue than to wag it so freely concernin' short folk. Ye sure ain't to big to be thrashed, hear?"

ArdFionn laughs as she continues to lead Heidi back to the pit, and calls back to LogazNir.
"Whats the matter Master Dwarf never heard of young ones being called knee biters. You're far taller 'en that certainly you couldn't 'ave thought I meant you." With that ArdFionn disappears around the corner with Heidi.

The reunion between husband and wife seems genuine and heart-warming. Unless you’d like to do anything else, I’ll assume you have common meals and make arrangements for the night. Josef informs you that it will be 5p to spend the night on the benches, tables of floor of the common room. When Heidi balks at the cost, Jose offers her a space in the barn for 2p, as long as she and Gretchen can stand the cold and the smell.

"Now see 'ere that'll n'er do. Come now you'll sleep in 'ere, where its warm and dry. No use being a sight when we need to meet with the roadwarden in the morn'. Least I can do for the fine meal and you puttin' us up for the night."
ArdFionn pulls a 1s and 5p from her pouch and hands it over to Josef. "Maybe the extra will get the 'lil one a blanket, if'n you have an extra."
"There now, it's a mite warmer in 'ere and a mite safer too, never know what'll run into or what'll run into you out 'ere by yourselves."

Heidi is profoundly grateful. The night passes as comfortably as it can in a place like this, but it is obvious that Heidi did not rest well.

Time: Morning, Festag, Pflugzeit 3, I.C. 2522

Location: The Strutting Cock

The next day a coach pulled by a team of two horses arrives at the inn from the north, escorted by six mounted men in leather jacks with swords, pistols and shields and a seventh, wearing full leather armor under a mail shirt, a helmet, and armed with a sword, 2 pistols and a dagger. This last bears the insignia of a captain. The air in the inn is one of curiosity and anticipation. From out of the coach steps a rough man wearing a helmet and a leather jack under a mail shirt. From his belt hangs a sword, net, case of bolts and 2 sets of manacles. Over one shoulder is a coil of rope and a crossbow is on his back.

They file into the inn. The captain calls to Josef, “I am Captain Leonhard Kurtz, here about the matter of the outlaw. Clear away the tables!” Josef and two lads do so immediately. Two of the roadwardens go around back and come back momentarily with the prisoner.

Captain Kurtz states, “You are accused of being Heinz Gerber, a notorious outlaw chief who led other scum to commit foul thieving, assault, and other crimes upon the honest folk of this region during the past four months. What have you to say for yourself?”

“I-I plead innocence, milord,” says the prisoner, “for I AM NOT THE MAN YOU CLAIM I AM! My name is Emmerich Handler, not Heinz Gerber. Please pare my life, milord, abd I shall leave these lands.”

From the look on the captain’s face it is clear he does not believe the man you know as Handler. “What proof do you have of your innocence? Who will come forth and support your claims?”

Heidi steps forward, holding Gretchen by the hand. “I am Heidi Handler from Gersdorf and this man is my husband, Emmerich.” The darling Gretchen adds, “Daddy!”

Does anyone else speak on the prisoner’s behalf?

"Sir, there is enough evidence to throw some serious doubt on his guilt. There are others in his home town who will vouch for his identity as Emmerich Handler. Is there some way to prove his identity as Heinz Gerber?"

The captain wheels on Galadaeg, hand on his pistol. “Are you the law here, elf? I asked if anyone would vouch for the accused, not hearsay from some distant village. The accused has already been identified by the bounty hunter. A clever man could have arranged for a “family” to vouchsafe his innocence. Unless someone actually stands for the accused I am inclined to pass judgement.”

Amused, LogazNir begins heading towards the bar, looking for good vantage point--and perhaps a drink!

"I do not represent the law in this part of the country. Khaine shall not prevail here, but Hoeth. To let this man be led to the slaughter totally uncontested is not justice. I will stand for him, though I may stand alone; until this man's guilt be either proven or found baseless." Galadaeg states in a firm, even tone.

From his corner at the bar, the dwarf begins to finger his armour, making sure it's snug, and checks to be sure his axe can be withdrawn from its place on his back smoothly. "I'm understandin' that this elf ain't no law 'round here. An' I'm understandin' that ya'lls are. But I'm knownin' too that bounty hunters ain't no law. He's got nothin' to care 'cept the heft o' his purse. He be havin' every reason to want this man be Gerber. Bounty hunters ain't law!"

The captain raises both his hands as a murmur of conversation passes through the common room. “I am not asking for anyone’s opinions of our system of law. I simply wish to know if anyone else is willing to stand and testify that this man is who he claims to be.”

Ardfionn stands. “Aye. I will. I was there when we fetched his wife from their village. She be no alibi. There was a home, well-established. There were caring neighbors. Your bounty hunter has made a mistake.”

The Captain waits a moment as the inn seems to hold its breath. He then turns to the bounty hunter and slaps him across the face. “Waste my time again, Lars, and you’ll be the one swinging from a rope. You men, release the prisoner.” The captain spins about and marches out of the inn without a further word to anyone.

The bounty hunter glares at each of you in turn, and then exits as well, stopping first at the door and looking out, as if to make sure the captain is not nearby.

The Handlers express their extreme gratitude and promise to take as good care of you as they can, should you ever visit Gersdorf.

The room exhales, tables are brought back, and the inn returns to its normal state as hunters and woodsman head out into their wilds, part of the day already gone to the excitement.

Realizing that you could fritter away your small earnings staying here, and that there is no real way to make a living in this area, you feel it is now time to move on. Westward. That’s where everyone says travelers should go. Westward.

As I don't believe we have any other pressing concerns, or can afford much in the way of supplies, I think we can safely head out of town.
LogazNir, a little paranoid, will continuously scan the horizon for a certain bounty hunter who must be none too pleased with the travelers.

After overhearing about bandits to the west in the tavern, Galadaeg is keeping a steady eye out for signs of increased traffic on the road, but is glad to be on the move again.
OOC: Which direction did the captain/road wardens take when they left??

Konrad heads westward with his companions. Though he'd like to walk his horse, he feels it is wise to stay mounted in case bandits attack suddenly and the advantage of fighting from horseback is needed.

ArdFionn rides with the group, occasionally trotting ahead to check the road for signs of trouble.

Westward Ho

Through some stroke of luck, or blessings from the gods, the bounty hunter has headed off to the east.

You virtually have the road to yourselves, as very few people actually travel in these troubled times. For the most part, the road follows the River Stir, though trees often obscure the view of the river. Parts of the road are hilly, while other parts pass through thick, dark woods.

Would anyone like to do anything in particular while you travel?

Seeing as others in the group have a bit of a height advantage, LogazNir will leave the looking-out to them. Instead he will focus on looking as fearsome and dangerous as he can! Though, to be honest, the dwarf is already thinking about food, and wonders if there aren't deer or boar in the frequent woods.

"If you are hungry, food can be had if it is exists in these woods to be found."

"I'm always hungry, But I ain't to be holdin' up the group for naught but a snack."

Pressing on, by late afternoon you arrive at the burnt remains of a tollhouse. Whatever tragedy befell this structure does not appear to be recent. The gate is broken and lying on the side of the road. Charred beams are all that remain of a roof, and a portion of the wall has tumbled down. Still, enough of the walls remain to provide some shelter from the elements, and it is the only structure you have seen since leaving.

"We should make camp, 'his place is 'he best I've seen. We can grab so 'ater from the river 'here, get a fire goin', see if'n we can't scrounge up some rabbits or somet'in for some grub."
ArdFionn dismounts and lashes the reins to part of the broken wall. She gives the building remains a hard thump from outside, seeing that it doesn't collapse she nods "Aye, 'his'll do." She sets right to setting up a section of camp, not speaking a word like shes done this a hundred times with never a single companion to talk to.

LogazNir wanders down to the river to relieve himself downstream and to get some water. Having drunk his fill, he fills his tankard to the brim and carries that up to camp for whoever needs it.

"We should set some snares, see if'n we can't catch a 'lil sometin'." She seems to say this to noone in particular.
ArdFionn starts grabbing a few things from her pack and heads to a nearby cluster of trees and begins looking around the underbrush for signs of activity.

As ArdFionn begins setting up camp, she comes across enough material to construct a crude lean-to. Along the walls she finds evidence of past campfires. While finding no tracks she does come across enough growing vegetation and berries to feed two of you.

Galadaeg gathers up his weapons and animal traps, and heads out as well, searching for a suitable place to set up his traps and hunt some game.

While Galadaeg doesn’t find a good place for traps, he does come back with a small coney (enough to feed him at least).

Galadaeg tosses the rabbit at Konrad after settling down against the wall, "You look like you need this more than I do. Take it and enjoy it."

Konrad, who was just tending to the horse, catches the coney.
"Thanks. I'm starving but...don't you want it?"
Konrad, realizing it's rude to question a gift, drops that line of questioning and starts skinning the animal with his dagger.

ArdFionn sits back down with some berries and nut and offers the extra portion up to anyone interested. "Not much, but it'll do."

As you prepare and eat your meals, such as they are, and the sun begins to set, you hear howling wolves in the distance. It is common knowledge in rural areas of the Empire that large packs of wolves roam the wild forests in search of food and are known to kill and devour small groups of people.

Konrad brings his horse as close to the fire as possible, trying to back it up against the makeshift wall to protect it. He steps away and scans the surrounding forest. Konrad, leaning on his demilance, turns to Galadaeg.
"Wolves, eh? Think they'll be a problem?"

"Think they be be dinner! Ooo I be hopin' they come fer us! Somethin' to sink yer teeth in!" LogazNir grabs his axe and waits excitedly, trying to place the direction of the wolves, and singing a ditty about the many ways to prepare wolf meat under his breath.

"I have made what little money I possess slaying the wild beasts who prey on people. Fortunately, these do not sound like beastmen, they tend to be a bit nastier." replies Galadaeg as he strings his bow, loosens his sword and nocks an arrow.

The evening wanes with no further interruption, other than the sounds of the forest at night. Does anybody do anything in particular before morning?

LogazNir was contemplating sleep for a time there...

Just sleep, nothing special.

During the night Ardfionn is woken by the sound of a snapping twig.

Ard hearing something in the night, will get up and do a once over of the camp, check on the horses and make sure that there is no one sneaking around in the shadows, before going back to sleep.

Ardfionn finds nothing and hears nothing further. Just as she is laying back down, there is another loud snapping noise near where the first one occurred.

LogazNir takes a moment to don his armour and collect his meager possessions. To ArdFionn he asks: "That be the first yell?"

"Aye, wolves went off 'hat way. Snappin' twigs woke me, wolves went runnin' by and 'hen 'hat fiendish scream. By my guess deamon, restless spirit of some sort. I figure we should be keeping out of this."

"Nonsense! Little peek at what be goin' on aint gonna hurt no one! How's abouts we be visitin' our new friends? Come!" LogazNir looks around camp and gives "helpful" kicks to anyone who has yet to wake before setting off with a determined step.

Konrad scrambles to his feet and pulling on his mail over his shirt. Upon getting dressed, he grabs his lance and starts preparing his horse for action.
"We should investigate. Someone could be in trouble."

Rising swiftly, Galadaeg begins buckling on his gear, "If it is a demon then we must go. Some threats in this world must be met, no matter the cost. May Kurnous grant us speed." he says grimly.

A short trip into the forest leads you to the carcass of a small deer. It has been torn to pieces.

"Or might be a deer. One 'eck of a scream though."
ArdFionn looks over the carcass to see if there are any salvageable bits, an intact leg or anything that could be roasted over the fire. If she sees any parts that look worth the while she'll start to cutting them off with her knife and carry it back to camp.
"Nature always provides, ay?"

There is nothing edible left on the carcass.

"In my years of hunting wild beasts, no deer has ever made a noise similar to that." as Galadaeg begins searching the ground for signs or tracks.
Perception/Track test.

While the ground is trampled, the confusion of activity prevents Galadaeg from gleaning any positive information.

"Greedy beasts!" the dwarf exclaims. Being more or less useless at the tasks the elves seem to be occupying themselves with, LogazNir paces around the outside of the group, swinging his axe in a left-right-chop pattern. He seems almost as disappointed over the lack of a demon as the lack of fresh meat.

Konrad, still mounted, manuevers his horse away from the disturbed ground. He rests the butt of his demilance in his right stirrup and scans the wilderness for any sign of the screamer.
"Very strange," he murmurs to himself.

ArdFionn looks around and with no activity shrugs her shoulders. "Come on, lets head back to camp. No use sittin' round here. 'he excitements over and we seemed to 'ave missed it. Let's go get some shut eye." ArdFionn begins back in the direction of camp.

"The forest will reclaim the bones. For now there seems to be little else for us to do except to await the dawn."

The rest of the evening passes uneventfully.

Wayward Travelers

Time: Morning, Wellentag, Pflugzeit 4, I.C. 2522

Location: Burned out gatehouse

You wake in the morning, your stomachs reminding you that you’ll need to eat at some point during the day.

On the road again, you find the going as easy as the previous day. Occasionally you see boats going up and down the River Stir. The boats travel near the center of the river. The road bends ahead of you.

Konrad hears a cart approaching from ahead.

Konrad will ride up and investigate the cart and hail them if they seem friendly. If they seem suspicious or hostile in any way, he'll ride back towards his companions to warn them.

Konrad suddenly gallops up ahead and disappears around the bend.

He sees two men walking on the road dressed in simple brownish, hooded habits with hammer-shaped medallions hanging from their necks. They nervously look to the forest to their left and occasionally to the river at their right. Both hold swords. Behind them, two similarly-dressed men drive a wagon packed with crates and bags, as well as four more of their fellows. The men riding suffer from wounds, judging by the various bandages, some bloodied, that they wear.

Upon seeing Konrad, the two in front whisper “ambush,” and grip their swords tighter.

Konrad lowers his lance and waves to the men.
"Followers of Sigmar, I mean you no harm. I am a supporter and defender of the Empire. You appear to have had some trouble. Perhaps my friends who follow and I can help."
Konrad stops his horse and makes no further move toward the men.

Galadaeg continues walking along the road, but loosens his sword in it's sheathe.

"Oy! Oh for cryin' out loud." ArdFionn shouts after the young knight as he leaves them in the dust.
ArdFionn sneers slightly as she edges her horse into a gallop and follows after Konrad, drawing the whip from her side as she goes.

"Now what be this all about, eh?!" The LogazNir shouts with a jump after the two fleeting figures. With a heavy sigh he pulls the axe from his back and curses the long-legged beasts that so easily out pace him...

"LogazNir, what do you think we have gotten ourselves into this time? I'll lay a brass penny on bandits." says the elf as he fingers his bow and walks a little faster.

As the rest of you catch up to Konrad, you see two men walking on the road dressed in simple brownish, hooded habits with hammer-shaped medallions hanging from their necks. They nervously look to the forest to their left and occasionally to the river at their right. Both hold swords. Behind them, two similarly-dressed men drive a wagon packed with crates and bags, as well as four more of their fellows. The men riding suffer from wounds, judging by the various bandages, some bloodied, that they wear.

The two men in front have assumed a combative stance.

“Bandits!” one of them cries as the party rounds the bend. Both men almost charge when they are pulled p short by one of the men on the cart. “Nay, brother! I do not think they mean us harm. Bandits do not announce themselves by name and offer aid. Stand down!”

The armed men relax…somewhat.

Konrad dismounts and pulls back his coif to better reveal himself. He shifts his lance to his left hand and extends his right to one of the armed men.
"I am Konrad Feldstatler, squire to Sir Hans Garonstern. I am traveling with these elves and this dwarf. They are ArdFionn, Galadaeg, and LogazNir. What trouble has befallen you?"

The man does not take Konrad’s hand, but does lower his sword. “We are pilgrims, good sir. Our affairs are deeply personal. We wish nothing more than to be left in peace so that we might continue or journey.”

"Can you give us any news of the road behind you? Do your companions require aid of any kind? They do not look like they will survive any pilgrimages except the final one."

ArdFionn hangs her whip back on her hip, and shrugs. "Good 'nuff for me, lets 'hem be on their way and we'll be on ours."
It's rather obvious that ArdFionn is used to having little to no allegiance to anyone one or anything. Her horse dances a bit impatiently on the side of the road obviously not used to sitting long in one spot in such open ground, and ArdFionn seems to agree with her horse’s desire to keep moving, as she shifts back and forth in the saddle a bit impatiently.

Addressing Galadaeg, one of the men says “We fought off bandits that attacked us on the road behind us. We were attacked an hour or so ago. Thank you for your offer of assistance, but to accept would be against the teachings of our order. Please, we must be on our way.”

"Very well, may you have a safe journey." says Galadaeg, still not totally putting away his weapon.

“And you,” the speaker bows his head.

Unless anyone else wants to interact with them, the pilgrims will be on their way, and you on yours.

Konrad awkwardly remounts after being rebuffed, nodding to the wounded holy men.
"Good luck to you."
He moves his horse out of the way to let them pass, riding over to ArdFionn.
"Sorry about running ahead like that. When I heard the cart coming, I figured there may be trouble and I didn't want to waste time. Pretty stupid, I guess."
Konrad trots back into the road.
"Well...this road leads towards bandits. I say, we follow it and meet them head-on. They're probably hurting from their battle with the Sigmarites and most likely not ready for another ambush. What say you all?"

"I be hopin' that there be enough heads left fer me to smash! I aint fer havin' strangers do me work fer me!"

"Let us go and make the world a safer place. I am glad I kept my bow out, I shall need it soon it seems."

A Murder of Crows

You travel without incident for roughly 90 minutes after meeting the pilgrims. You see and hear a murder of crows up ahead. The road cross a 15-yard rise before it descends into a clearing where the crows have gathered to feast.

The scene before you is one of carnage. Strewn across the meadow are the bodies and separated body parts of ten people. Five are dressed as farmers, and the others are in pilgrim garb like those you recently met on the road. Crows and a few ravens pick at the flesh of the dead. One large raven plucks an eye out from the socket of a dead pilgrim as you watch.

While you are able to avoid feeling nauseated, each of you gains 1 insanity point.

((Looks like none of us are certain as to how we should proceed!))
LogazNir looks to the elves as asks each to try and find which way the bandits left this mess from.

As you stand in shock, you hear a groan from what you thought was a corpse. Following the sound you find a lone woman near death lying in the clearing. She groans in pain as she comes to for a brief moment before the servants of Morr come to claim her soul.

She opens hers eyes and weakly motions for LogazNir to come closer. “I thank Rhya and Morr that you have come. I am dying, having failed in my charge. But you…you must do what I could not. The bandits in pilgrim clothing stole a young girl from us. She is the seven-year-old daughter of Baron von Radische. He secretly entrusted her to our care years ago. I have a medallion that the Baron gave me to identify his daughter.

We were returning her to her father when bandits attacked us. I beseech you. You must rescue Bianka. I fear the outlaws will do her harm. If you safely bring her to Herr Wilhelm Leibniz in the town of Hermsdorf, he will richly reward you. He is the steward of the Baron at Castle Radische on the outskirts of town. I beg you, in Rhya’s name, please rescue Bianka.”

The woman lays back, closes her eyes and breathes her last.

Konrad looks around with disgust.
"These people need to be buried, but that will have to wait. We must find these bandits and rescue this girl before she is hurt...or worse."
Konrad searchs the area for any tracks that he can see with his limited ability in such things.

Konrad has no such skills, but the wagon tracks heading back the way you came are obvious.

"I be thinkn' she means them we just passed not an age ago... knew I didn't like their smells!"

ArdFionn reckons the bandits have a 3 hour lead on you. Moreover, as its mid-afternoon, you cannot reach the ruined tollhouse before dark.

Konrad begins to understand the deception.
"But...they wore the hammers of Sigmar. They said they were holy men..."
Konrad's expression slowly shifts from confused disbelief to rage.
"They rode right past us! We wished them luck on their journey! I bet they're laughing at us right now!"
Konrad lifts his demilance over his head.
"I swear I shall not rest easy while those men live."
Konrad looks like he's preparing to gallop after them himself, but he calms himself for a moment and looks back to his companions.
"Who's with me?"

Rousing himself from some deep thought, a look of anger crosses the fair elf's face, "I am with you, the girl shall survive. Let the hunt begin."

"Aye, lets get 'em, if nothing else I can't stand being laughed at. Not to mention the reward. But ifn' were goin' to do 'his, we're going to have to travel though 'he night, in or'er to catch 'em up." ArdFionn hops up into the saddle and begins heading back toward the road. "You lot comin'?"

"If we must travel through the night, then we should get started. A night ambush will allow us to secure the girl before the bloodshed starts."

Mumbling, LogazNir begins strutting back the way he came. Despite his grumbles, he has a slight smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye.

Before leaving you recall the old woman’s mention of a medallion. Searching her with all possible reverence, you find the same, depicting an upright ferret holding a sword. None of you recognizes the symbol.

You head out back the direction from whence you came and travel at top speed (considering half of you are walking). As nightfall descends on the forest you hear howling wolves from somewhere up ahead. You will need light to continue, as the forest canopy is so thick in some parts that the moonlight or stars cannot be relied upon to light the way.

"We can light torches, but our quarry will be aware of us before our trap is sprung."

In fact, you reckon your choices are limited to producing light or camping for the night.

"I am for pushing on, but if we make light we will find shafts coming out of the dark rather than the other way around. Can we tie a lantern or hang a torch from one of the horses far enough ahead so that it won't illuminate us too badly?"
Galadaeg looks around seeking the input of his comrades.

Konrad nods.
"I feel like it is a dangerous endeavor, but lives are at stake if we don't make haste. My hope is that they have stopped for the night. We might be able to see their campfire in the distance before they see our torch. We must be vigilant, that's all."
Konrad will walk his horse for a bit, checking the ground for a piece of wood long enough to tie a torch to.

As you begin looking for a branch, you all realize you have no sources of light. To continue on, Galadaeg, Logaznir and ArdFionn must rely on their enhanced vision and guide you slowly through the darker parts of the forest.

Something Green This Way Comes

Continuing on for some ways you stumble upon yet another seen of carnage, yet your previous experience has hardened you somewhat to such brutalities. Strewn upon the ground around a cart in a starlit clearing are the bodies of ten dead goblins, four slain wolves and some human body parts; hands, fingers and a piece of scalp. The cart appears to be intact and looks like the same one the “pilgrms” were driving, but there is no sign of the horse that was pulling it. The crates have been forced open and clothing scattered around. Sacks of grain are spilled out and loaves of bread tossed about.

Galadaeg finds a piece of medium blue, torn cloth on a nearby bush. There is no blood on the cloth.

On top one of the crates can be seen an opened letter with a seal. The seal matches the emblem on the old woman’s medallion, an upright ferret holding a sword.

LogazNir ignores the obviously important letter and instead digs through the cart for any unspoiled foodstuffs. With an empty stomach and no food in the pack, the need for something to eat comes first. When he is finished with that, he will look for any full human bodies, not merely body parts. LogazNir feels that the so-called bandits aren't entirely human....

There is enough bread for each of you to eat and grab two loaves apiece. There are no human bodies or parts beyond what you initially saw.

If possible Galadaeg will try to read the letter, otherwise he will begin searching through the bodies for the body of the little girl. He will keep an eye out for any bits of metal and rocks to perhaps get some sort of fire going to light a torch or two.

Unfortunately Galadaeg doesn,t know how to read. You are able to find a couple of torches, a few matches and some waterskins as well. A thorough search of the scene would take about an hour.

We've found a fair deal already, and certainly enough to convince LogazNir that something isn't right. Perhaps we should have a look around and find out where the survivors fled to?

What you find, and easily enough, is a path someone or something seems to have taken. They did not try to conceal their passage through the forest and you feel it would be an easy task to track them. By the way the branches and undergrowth are trampled you feel it could be several individuals, most likely goblins. There are no other discernible signs of traffic near the clearing.

"'his girl's going from bad to worse. Bandits and now gobbies. We best be pressin on I suppose."
ArdFionn shoves the two loaves of bread into her pack and mounts up yet again.

LogazNir also stows two of his loaves away, muching on the third as he travels. "I be findin' it 'ard to believe 'twas the weak-necks who be winnin' that fight," the dwarf says, following after his companions.

Follow the Greenskins

The trail meanders through the forest. After traveling for 2 hours you hear gruff voices up ahead. They sound like they are celebrating. Carefully sneaking ahead you see a large bonfire set in a clearing near a steep rise in the land. An opening in the side of the hill likely leads caves where the goblins lair. The body of the horse is roasting over the fire while the naked and mutilated corpses of seven humans hang upside down nearby. A lone wolf feasts on an 8^th human body on the far side of the clearing, closer to the woods than the cave opening. A small, frightened, blond-haired, human girl is tied to a leather tether between the cave entrance and bonfire.

To the Rescue

As you survey the scene you note four fully armed goblin warriors leaving the camp. Their departure leaves eight goblins and the wolf in the camp.

Knocking an arrow Galadaeg whispers, "Konrad, ArdFionn mount up, ride across the clearing and protect the girl, when the goblins begin to come after you, LogazNir and I will take them from behind."

Konrad loosens his sword in his scabbard and checks the point of his demilance. After checking the condition of his shield, he readies himself for the charge. He looks to Galadaeg and ArdFionn for a sign, his face nervous but determined.

ArdFionn looses the whip at her side from its tether and lets a few of the coils out till it hangs loose and ready to strike at her side.
She gives the others a quick nod and begins edging her horse closer until she spurs him full on towards the girl.

Firing his arrow, Galadaeg begins nocking another arrow, "Go. LogazNir, stand ready."
Actions: Aim
Fire arrow at the nearest goblin.

LogazNir retrieves his great axe from its place between his shoulders and waits patiently for the first weak-neck stupid enough to get close.
Actions: Ready Axe
Delay. (If someone gets within range, attack them.)

I’m assuming at this point you would have doused your torch as you approached the camp.

Just before you execute your plan, the goblins look up towards your location. All but Galadaeg have been spotted!

Galadaeg aims and fires at the nearest goblin (2 rolled) and hits him in his left arm for 10 points of damage, heavily wounding the goblin.

ArdFionn reaches the girl.

Four of the goblins (including the heavily wounded one) race towards the wolf and it appears they begin to argue about who is going to ride it. The wolf stands growling. The other four goblins grab their short bows and fire at ArdFionn. An arrow grazes ArdFionn’s head, luckily doing no damage.

There is nobody fighting at the edge of the clearing so no goblins come within range of Lognazir’s axe.

Konrad charges into the group of goblins wielding bows (57 rolled for attack, +10% for charge) but fails to hit any of the greenskins.

Please post your actions for round 2

If I have a clear shot at any of the enemies, I will load an arrow (free), aim, and fire. Otherwise, I will draw my sword and follow LogazNir into the fray.

Position myself between the fight and the girl, and attack any goblins that get in reach of my whip.

I will charge the group of goblins standing above the wolf, and attack the closest one.

Galadaeg hits one of the bowmen for 10 points in its left leg.

One of the goblins proves himself the winner of the wolf-rider contest and leads the others in a slavering charge, their nicked swords gleaming dully in the firelight. All the greenskins with swords will be able to attack ArdFionn next round.

The archers turn their attentions to the edge of the clearing, firing at Galadaeg. The hail of arrows misses, although one did come disconcertingly close.

Logaznir charges to almost the extent of his movement before bringing his mighty axe down on a goblin’s head for 10 points of damage. The critical hit brings the goblin down and stuns it for 3 rounds.

Only Konrad remains to go this round.

If any goblins are immediatly around Konrad, he stabs down at them with his demilance, hoping to skewer them. If he must move, he will attempt to charge again into the goblins around ArdFionn.
Actions:Quick Attack (full action)
Parry (free action)
OR
Charge (full action)
Parry (free action)

I assume you mean a swift attack? And parry is now a half action. Konrad attacks with his demilance (11 rolled) and hits a goblin in the head for 10 points of damage, heavily wounding the greenskin.

We’re now in round 3 with Galadaeg, ArdFionn, the goblins, Lognazir and then Konrad going.

Same as before: If I have a clear shot at any of the enemies, I will load an arrow (free), aim, and fire. Otherwise, I will draw my sword and follow LogazNir into the fray.

Same as before any of the goblins get in range of the whip, give them a taste of it.

Konrad will continue to attack the wounded goblin until he falls, then turn his attention to another foe.
OOC: Konrad will swift attack again if possible.

LogazNir will continue swinging away at the little horrors with his usual reckless abandon. However, if the wolf rider is within reach, I will attack him first.

Galadaeg does have a plethora of targets but misses his shot.

ArdFionn’s whip lash fails to connect as well, and she coils it back up.

The wolf bites into ArdFionn’s horse’s left front leg for 6 points of damage.

The wolf’s rider slashes across and strikes ArdFionn’s lather jack-clad body for 2 points of damage.

One of the goblins remains stunned on the ground. A goblin misses ArdFionn and another misses Lognzair.

Two of the archers fire at Konrad and miss and two fire at Lognazir, one hitting the dwarf in his lather jack-clad left arm for 3 wounds.

Sorry, realized I cheated Konrad out of an attack last round, at the end of the round but he missed (51 rolled).

A goblin on foot stands between Logaznir and the wolf rider. Lognazir’s axe slams into the head of his obstacle for 14 points of damage. The axe blade cleaves through the goblin’s skull, instantly killing it.

Konrad’s first strike at an archer with his demilance misses (71 rolled), as does his second (75 rolled)

We’re now in round 4 with Galadaeg, ArdFionn, the goblins, Lognazir and then Konrad going.

I'll head for the wolf-rider and attack the wolf if possible.

If I have a clear shot at any of the enemies, I will load an arrow (free), aim, and fire. Otherwise, I will draw my sword and follow LogazNir into the fray.

All the goblins are involved in melee (-20% to BS) so I’m assuming the latter.

Galadaeg draws blade and advances to the wolf rider (the only target you could get to this round) and slashes at him but fails to hit (67 rolled)

Correct, that would be when I would charge into combat.

ArdFionn attacks the goblin which poses the biggest threat to the restrained girl.

ArdFionn fails to connect with her whip (65 rolled)

The wolf again worries at ArdFionn’s horse’s left front leg for 1 point of damage.

The wolf rider slashes at ArdFionn but misses, as does one of the goblins on the ground. One of the goblins remains stunned. All of the archers draw wicked curved swords and attack Konrad and Lognazir. One of them cuts deeply into Lognazir’s right leg for 7 wounds. Lognazir has 2 wounds left.

Lognazir and then Konrad are up.

((Ouch!))
"Why you little bugger!" the dwarf rages. He then strikes out wildly at the weak-neck that slashed him so. Retreat simply isn't an option for this dwarf.

Lognazir’s axe slams into the body of the already wounded goblin, through armor and bone, and cuts the greenskin neatly in half.

Konrad will push his horse into the melee, trying to get to where Logaznir is causing and having so much trouble. He will attack any goblins he encounters between here and there.

Konrad has been fighting side by side with Logaznir so may use a swift attack. His first attempt misses but his second strikes a goblin in the right arm for 5 points of damage. The goblin is lightly wounded.

To recap: the goblin on the wolf is heavily wounded, as is one of his companions, who was stunned but is now moving again. The other goblin with him is unharmed. One is dead.

Of the goblins who were firing arrows (and are now using swords), one is heavily wounded, one is lightly wounded and one is unharmed. One is dead.

Galadaeg and then ArdFionn are up.

ArdFionn attacks the goblin on the wolf.

Galadaeg performs a charge attack on the nearest goblin.

Galadaeg is already engaged with the goblin on the wolf. Might I suggest an all-out attack? Galadaeg’s sword cuts into the goblin’s left arm for 6 points. The blow cuts through the goblin’s arm and carries into its body, killing the creature before it falls to the ground from the wolf.

ArdFionn shifts her attack to the other goblin near the girl. Her whip catches the goblin around its left arm. The whip does 2 points of damage (reduced to 0 by the goblin’s toughness bonus) but does ensnare the creature.

The riderless wolf continues its ferocious assault on the ArdFionn’s horse, but just misses.

The previously stunned goblin gets up and attacks Lognazir, but misses by a wide margin. The ensnared goblin tries to burst his bonds by muscling through the whip, but fails. Two of the former archers attack Lognazir and miss and one misses Konrad.

Lognazir and Konrad are up.

Thank you, good anticipation of my actions. I thought I was still running into combat, my bad....

Outraged that a downed goblin should get up again, LogazNir vows to put it back down for good, and attacks.

LogazNir corrects the issue, slicing through the gobbo’s arm and into its body, making it very dead.

Konrad attempts to strike the entangled goblin near the girl. If he cannot reach that one, he will attack the nearest wounded goblin.

Two sharp jabs down at the entangled greenskin both miss, in spite of the fact that he’s almost immobile.

Galadaeg is up next, and has to advance to attack a goblin, or may attack the wolf staying where he is

ArdFionn is next, her whip entangling a goblin

3 goblins still battle LognaZir and Konrad, 1 lightly wounded, 1 heavily wounded, 1 unharmed. The fourth living goblin is entangled in ArdFionn’s whip.

I will stand and perform an all out attack on the wolf standing right in front of me.

Galadaeg fails to hit the wolf (64 rolled).

ArdFionn is up next.

Is it possible for ArdFionn to keep the whip entangling the goblin and draw her dagger with the other hand to start cutting the girl free?
If so that’s what she does, if not she'll just keep the goblin entangled.

Yes, that’s fine.

The wolf leaps up and snaps its jaws shut on ArdFionn’s horse for 7 wounds. The mount is now heavily wounded and is shaking its head back and forth as its ears bleed.

The snared goblin bursts free from the whip.

One of the goblins fighting LogazNir hits the dwarf in the head for 5 wounds (reduced to 1 by Logaznir’s TB). LogazNir is now at 1 wound.

The other goblin misses the dwarf but the third hits Konrad in the left arm for 12 wounds (reduced by 1 for armor and 3 for TB to 8 wounds). Konrad has 4 wounds remaining.

LogazNir and then Konrad are up.

LogazNir, as always, will strike out at the one who last caused him harm and enact bloody revenge.

LognaZir’s axe slams into the body of the goblin and, with Ulric’s Fury (10 rolled for damage) inflicts 22 wounds (reduced by 1 for armor and 3 for TB to 18 wounds) on the goblin. Several of the unfortunate beasts internal organs are ruptured and spill forth from the wound as it falls to its knees. Although death will take it in a matter of seconds, its pain-filled face is all too alive at the moment. Its arms hang limply, and it drops its sword as its gaze becomes unfocused.

Konrad seems shaken for a moment, the pain of real combat not being part of his training. He shakes it off and with an unknightly roar, jabs away savagely at the goblin whom struck him.

Konrad’s first attack strikes the goblin in the right arm for 5 wounds (8 reduced by 3 for the goblin’s toughness bonus). The goblin is heavily wounded, but still up. The squire’s second attack just misses.

Galadaeg and ArdFionn are up.

I am going to all out attack the closest target (which is the wolf, I believe).

Galadaeg strikes the wolf’s body for 6 wounds (reduced by 3 for wolf’s TB to 3), lightly wounding the wolf.

ArdFionn lashes out with her whip trying to ensnare another goblin.

ArdFionn misses the goblin.

The wolf bites into ArdFionn’s horse’s right front leg again , this time with a sickening crunch. The horse emits an almost human-like scream before it crashes to the ground, it’s leg demolished and bleeding. ArdFionn is thrown to the ground.

Two of the goblins glance around and, realizing their numbers have dwindled, suddenly stand stock still and stare at ArdFionn and Galadaeg, fear in their eyes. The third one realizes the same thing but whistles for the wolf and moves away from the combat, toward the woods.

LognaZir and Konrad are up.

LogazNir won’t have any of these beasts escaping, and has no reservations against slaughtering them. If possible, he will move to (or charge) and attack the fleeing goblin. If he cannot reach him, he will target the wolf instead.

LogazNir charges one of the goblins, striking it in the head for 7 wounds (10-3 for TB), heavily wounding the fleeing creature.

Konrad attempts to finish this goblin he wounded.

Unfortunately Konrad fails to strike his target. (76 and 99 rolled)

Galadaeg and the ArdFionn are up.

Determined to finally bring down that wolf, Galadaeg launches an all out assault on the wolf.

Galadaeg’s attack misses (96 rolled).

ArdFionn also attacks the wolf, raging fury gleaming in her eyes as lashes out at the creature.

ArdFionn misses the wolf with her whip (47 rolled).

The wolf leaps away after the uninjured goblin and passes him on its way out of the clearing.

All the goblins stand still in fear of the presence of the elves in the group.

LognaZir and then Konrad are up next.

LogazNir will finish off his wounded goblin.

The goblin’s head separates neatly as LogazNir’s axe passes through its neck.

Konrad looks frustrated, unable to connect with his demilance. Seeing no other option available, he continues his attacks.

Konrad’s first strike misses but the second connects with the goblin’s body for 4 (8-1 for armor-3 for TB) wounds. Konrad’s demilance pulverizes the spine of the creature and it collapses to the ground.

Galadage and ArdFionn are up

If there are any goblins not fleeing, Galadaeg will do a charge attack against them.
If not, Galadaeg will drop his sword, draw his bow, load an arrow (free), and fire at any of the goblins still in sight.

Galadaeg charges between LogazNir and Konrad but just misses the goblin (50 rolled)

ArdFionn will do everything in her power to wrap her whip around one of the little monsters neck, in every attempt to snap it like a twig.

Ardfionn could recoil her whip and move towards the goblin but will have to wait until next round to attack.

The wolf bounds through the forest, almost immediately out of sight.

Both remaining goblins stand stock still in fright.

LogazNir and then Konrad are up, both in striking distance of the same goblin, or in charging distance of the one being approached by ArdFionn.

Konrad sees the goblin and imagines maybe he can put his horse to better use than a platform for him to continually not hit his enemy. He gives his horse the spurs and charges the greenskin approaching ArdFionn.

LogazNir, hopefully not getting in the way, will move and attack any still aggressive goblins, if any. Otherwise he will merely move into range of one still in a stupor, and wait.

Logaznir hits the goblin in its right arm for 20 wounds (Ulric’s Fury!) (-3 for TB) =17 wounds total. The axe cleaves through bone, severing the arm and buries itself deeply in the torso of the greenskin, instantly killing it.

Konrad charges into the goblin and hits it in the right arm with his demilance for 9-3 for TB = 6 wounds, heavily wounding the goblin.

Galadaeg and ArdFionn are up

Galadaeg will do an all out attack on the nearest goblin.

Galadaeg has to charge the last goblin but slices into it’s body (46 rolled) for 6-1 for armor-3 for TB = 2 wounds. The ferocity of Galadaeg’s attack results in the busting of some of the goblin’s ribs and it bends over as it exhales in pain.

ArdFionn stabs at the creature with her dagger but misses.

The goblin stands stock-still in fear.

Konrad and LogazNir are up, and would have to charge to hit the goblin.

LogazNir looks longingly after the wolf that fled, but otherwise seems oblivious to the last goblin. He then begins to clean his axe on the tunic of a nearby body.

Konrad wheels his horse around and attempts another charging attack, his bloody demilance at the ready.

Konrad’s demilance slams into the body of the goblin for 11-1 for armor-3 for TB=7 wounds. Konrad’s weapon spits the last goblin and the force of the charge drives it deeply into him, until he is suspended as a rag doll on the lance. Konrad brings his horse up and wheels, the greenskin dancing obscenely on the lance from the motion alone, as all life has left its body.

Stealthily moving to free the girl of her bonds, Galadaeg begins warily watching for new threats which may appear.

The young girl is shaking and goes through fits of uncontrollable crying. “Wh-wh-why did they take me? What happened to my parents? Thank you for rescuing me, you are all very brave, but have you seen my parents? The last I saw of them they were fighting off bandits. I was taken and then the bandits were attacked by these creatures. Why is this happening to me?”

"Who's got the amulet? Someone be showin' her the amulet, so as we stop the waterworks a'fore we all is drowned."
Somewhat uncomfortable, LogazNir makes a determined show of digging through the corpses, looking for anything of value or interest.

"Be easy, Bianka, we have been sent to find you and to take you safely back to your home. I think the other elf standing over there has something for you, her name is ArdFionn, why don't you go see her." straightening up, Galadaeg goes off searching for arrows, as well as for any other gear which may be useful.

ArdFionn ignores the girl and the rest of the group and begins checking her horse to see if there is anyway to save it. She doesn't say a word, a concerned expression fixed on her face as she sets to work calming the horse and trying to get a look at his injured leg.

As ArdFionn begins tending to her horse she realizes it died of blood loss before the battle was over.

Konrad rides around the perimeter of the camp for a moment, checking for any further attacks. Satisfied, he rides over to the girl with his companions. He tries to look friendly but realizes he is covered with a liberal amount of blood and gore.
"Hello. My name is Konrad. We're here to save you."

The girl stares for a moment at Konrad, whimpers, and then wraps her arms around ArdFionn and sobs.

ArdFionn looks nearly horrified at the display of emotion the girl is showing and gingerly pats her on the back, while looking at the others with a look of sheer confusion.
"It's alright Lil' One, we're going to take you someplace safe. And hopefully to someone who can answer all your questions. Your mom gave us this, to show you and asked us to find you." ArdFionn struggles to pull the pendant from her bag with only one hand, and holds it up as best she can for the girl to see it.

The dwarf looks up from where he is rummaging through a body of a goblin and says to the two: "Why don't ye just give it to her then? Might, ye know... shut her up or somethin'. Teasin' her with it like that won't be doin' her or yerself no good."

The girl stops sobbing at the mention of her mother. “Mama gave that to you? For me? Why? It’s pretty, though. Yes, please take me from here. It’s just absolutely awful!”

ArdFionn puts the necklace on the girl and after reaching over to close her horse's eyes and give him a final pat, stands up and takes the girl by the hand. "Alright then, let’s get you someplace safe."

"The name of this Baron is unfamiliar to me, do any of you know anything about him?", turning to Bianka the elf says, "Tell me about your parents."

Bianka blinks for a moment, never leaving ArdFionn’s side. “Baron?My parents are Hans and Gretel Dunn. We’re just village folk. They told me we were moving and then…and then…,” the girl breaks down into tears again, recalling the bandit attack.

"Bianka, do you remember the name of the town you grew up in?"

Bianka replies, “Marburg.”

ArdFionn begins to pick up a coil of rope off her fallen horse, but after a moment tosses it too the ground.
"If someone wants it feel free, far too heavy to lug around... Well your mom asked us to make sure you got to Hermsdorf safely, she said there was someone there who she trusted to take care of you. Did she ever mention that place to you?"

“Only that that was near where a great castle sits. But I don’t know anyone there.”

OOC: What is the distance between Hermsdorf and Marburg??

Approximately 100 miles by road.

"Bianka, Did your parents tell you why you were moving? We also found other people where you were taken by the bandits, who were you traveling with? I say we press on to Hermsdorf, but I counsel caution before we deliver the girl to her new guardians."
"We should also move on before those Goblins come back with friends."

Bianka sniffles, “No, only that it was time to go. They were other people my parents knew, I guess. It’s always better to travel in a group in case…in case…,” the girl breaks down once more.

Konrad looks at the girl sympathetically.
"Bianka, we're going to go now and get you to a safe place. Would you like to ride on my horse?"
Konrad dismounts and leads Gorgon over to the girl.

"Aye, I'd let her ride Wystria, but that would probably traumatize her more." ArdFionn says with a bit of jealousy not too well hidden in her voice.
She leads the girl over to Konrad's horse, and gives her a hand up, then head back over to her fallen horse after a silent moment of kneeling next to her, ArdFionn rises. "Back to nature with you old friend, we 'ad a good final ride and we met our goal."
ArdFionn head back over to the girl, " 'Ave you ever ridden a 'orse before, lil' one? "Ere take this too, if all else fails and we fall, it'll give you a way to defend yourself." ArdFionn hands the girl her dagger and sheath. "You 'old on to that now and keep it close. You don't need to know anything fancy, just pull it out of the sheath and pointy end goes in whats trying to 'urt you. 'Hat easy lil' one and it'll make them think twice about what they're doin'."

Journey Home

Bianka nods to Konrad, her tears still dripping, but a look of excitement on her face. After ArdFionn hands her the dagger (which she accepts awkwardly), Bianka’s eyes almost never leave the Elf’s form, and the girl looks upon the Outrider with the adulation of a little sister.

As you are heading on to Hermsdorf your choices are to go back to the ruined lighthouse and make camp there, before continuing on (it’s about a 4 day journey from the toll house) or go through the forest towards the village of Ossino. You could make Ossino today, or the day after if you take the road from the toll house.

It may be wise to head to Ossino first, to gather some food for the trip, and possibly another horse or two.

"Aye, lets move out, if we can get to the town before night fall lets do it."

"Ossino it is then."

The trek to Ossino is uneventful, almost. Bianka whimpers quite a bit, not being used to the saddle and traveling in general. She has to stop a lot to stretch her legs and take care of other business.

It is late afternoon when you stride across a small rise and see the walled village of Ossino as rain begins to fall. The forest is cleared about fifty yards from the ditch surrounding three-quarters of the village, forming a pasture for the pigs now being herded through the gate of the stockade. The southern part of the town borders the River Stir and a small wharf extends into the water. It looks like the gate is closing soon.

Visiting Ossino

"Let's get movin', no use making this trip just to sleep on the wrong side of the gate."

You realize the gates will close before you can walk to them.

Konrad runs over to Gorgon and attempts to gently scoop Bianka up and help her down.
"Sorry, my dear. I happen to need this fellow right now. I will return your horse in just a moment."
Konrad mounts his horse quickly and gallops to the gate, determined to catch them before they close and try to convince them to wait for the party.

"Come on lets not keep 'em waitin' too long." ArdFionn takes Bianka by the hand and breaks into a run, making sure to go no faster then the young girl can keep up.
"Tuck your necklace in your shirt, your mom asked you keep 'hat secret until the right time. She didn't want it to draw attention to you."

Keeping pace with LogazNir, Galadaeg says in a low voice, "Do you figure we will turn the girl over to the Baron, the servant, or someone as yet unknown?"

Seeing the party running toward the gate, lead by Konrad mounted on Goliath, the watchman of Ossino, hastily closes the structure, shouting, “Alarm! Alarm! Bandits attacking from the woods!” A cow bell begins to be struck repeatedly as you hear the sound of hurried activity and shouts from inside the community. You arrive just after the gate closes and a loud thud is heard as a bar is dropped into place. There is a shutter in the gate at eye-level.

ArdFionn knocks on the gate loudly.
"Hello!!!!"

Konrad looks at ArdFionn.
"Again with this bandit nonsense. Do we look like bandits? A few wounded bloody attackers against a walled community."
He points to Bianka.
"She must be our leader," he says sarcastically. He cranes back his head and puts his hand around his mouth to amplify his voice.
"Please open the gate. We're just travelers who've run into trouble. Fought some greenskins and found a little girl whom they kidnapped. We could use some rest and food. Please. We can offer some coin, too."

"Only those elves of far off Naggaroth would be so rash as to come at you as we have done and mean it to be an attack. If that were the case, you would already be dead. We seek only the chance to spend some coin inside the walls."

Keeping pace with the stubby, if sturdy, dwarf is no feat...
"Can't trust nobility! They ain't fer gettin' them hands dirty in public, so they's must be gettin' them dirty in secret. I ain't trustin' a man o' secrets." LogazNir says in reply to Galagdeag's question.
Somewhat covered in goblin-gore and a liberal amount of his own blood, the dwarf tries futilely to "dust" himself off. LogazNir, a little embarrassed that his blood-caked hands are not doing the trick, shakes his fist in the air in defiance of the town guards. "Ah, just let us in, ye fools!"

The shutter slides open and a grizzled dirty man peers out with squinting eyes. “Aye and bandits never travel with kidnapped children, nor lie about offering coin! Ye come chargin’ our gate, why shouldn’t we believe ya ta be bandits? Why should we let the wolves in among the sheep so readily? And belligerent dwarves we’ve seen a-plenty. Why do we need one more o’ those?”

"'Cause if'n you opens it now, I'll be forgettin' yer tone and save ye the trouble o' rebuildin' this here gate. An' what if ye don't? I is still plannin' on sleeping inside, even if'n I has to chop yer stinkin' gate down a'fore ye!"

The shutter closes with a slam and you can hear braces being placed against the gate.

*whispering* "We may be able to go along the wall, and come into the town via the river. If we are spotted, we will have to explain our presence inside the town, and why no guardsmen saw us come in via the gates."

"Bah! Yer all damned fools!" The dwarf rages, as he smashes the butt of his axe against the gate. "I'm givin' ye one last chance to open 'er up!"

Konrad looks over at the dwarf.
"I know you're angry, but I doubt we'll find our stay comfortable in any town that we need to batter down the gate to enter. I think diplomacy may prevail. If not that, perhaps cleverness. Brute force, however, is a near-guaranteed way to not get what we want."

"In their minds, we are already bandits; I think the time for cleverness has arrived."

As the sky darkens, you hear wolves howling from the forest. Bianka whimpers and begins to shiver.

ArdFionn knocks on the door again. After a moment if the eye slit opens or not she calmly and patiently says "If you will not let us in will you at least let the young one in, 'here are wolves howlin' out here and 'hey seem to have her rather frightened. She had a tryin' 'nough day already, at least let her get a decent nights sleep in a bed. Please."

"If we make for the safety of the piers on the river, it will be easier for us to fend them off. If we force them to come to us in the shallows of the river, it will hamper their ability to get at us." kneeling down, "Do not worry, little one. We will not let them get you, but take my cloak for the moment. We can't defend you from wolves just to have you get sick on us."
OOC: are the piers we noticed earlier accessible to us? or would we need to be inside the walls to get to them?

The only access to the wharf is from within the town walls, or from the river itself. As ArdFionn speaks, the shutter does, indeed, open. “Well, if ye be bandits, ye certainly aren’t any good at it. Ye can enter, but let’s have no belligerence! ‘Tis by the good of me heart that I let ye in, and for the sake o’ the wee one, at that. Ye’d be well advised ta get her over ta The Crowned Swan fer a warm meal. Looks like most of ya could do with one, at that.”

"Many t'anks kind sir. Could you be pointin' us in the direction of The Crowned Swan, we'd be much obliged." ArdFionn says as the man lets the group in.

Touring the Town

You are let into the gates and escorted into the village, uninteresting save for a wooden structure about 10 yards in diameter with walls about 3 yards high and a center peak of thatched roof that rises 4 yards from the ground. The entryway is a 4-foot-wide portal with a skull of a forest bison mounted on the lintel. Sheaves of barley hang from either side of the skull. “Yonder be our temple to Taal and Rhya. On the river is a shrine to Undine, if that be yer faith. And here’s the Crowned Swan.”

The Crowned Swan

You enter into a nondescript inn, crowded with locals and tradesmen. You are told that since the private rooms are already taken, you can arrange for lodging in the common room for 2 silver shillings per person. You are all quite hungry as well, and Bianka’s stomach rumbles.

"At least with wolves you know they are trying to make you bleed..."

LogazNir looks for an empty table for the group, or a vacant corner, if it comes to that.

Konrad stands as tall and proudly as he can, exhibiting his practiced expression of non-threatening confidence. He looks down at Bianka.
"How does dinner sound? We could all use some rest and a warm meal."
Konrad follows LogazNir in looking for a table.

Bianka enthusiastically nods her agreement. I’m going to assume you arrange for meals and sleeping space for the evening. Someone has to pay for Bianka (ArdFionn volunteers). A meal will cost 2 pennies each and stabling for Gorgon will cost 8 pennies.

You are able to find your own table and benches. As you relax and fill yourselves, locals increasingly begin to acclimate themselves to your presence and press you for news of the world and your travels. Do you share any information?

In exchange for information about the Baron and his household, Galadaeg is willing to trade what infomation he has.

LogazNir will entertain interested--and uninterested--patrons with a lively recounting of a pit fight or two. The actual information sharing he will leave to the more....delicate minded.

Information about the Baron is widely speculative as Helmsdorf is two day’s travel from Ossino, and few of the locals have any dealings with the nobles. Towrads the end of the evening a man approaches your table. “Evenin’. My name is Moritz Hausier. I used to be a soldier and am just passing through Ossino. I’m trying to find out more information about the area. Where are you all from?”

ArdFionn is careful to not reveal to much information to anyone, as she is still uncertain as to who is after Bianka. She also tries her best to keep the young girl entertained with stories of her rides through the forests and some of her previous jobs scouting out the wilder areas of the world for countries.

Perhaps stinging from being mistaken as a bandit, Konrad does his best to friendly with the crowd in the common room. That being said, he is also very vague when speaking about himself and his companions.

A Beloved face Remembered

Undaunted by the seeming lack of hospitality and reticence of some of the party members, Moritz begins speaking to Bianka, asking her how she’s enjoying Ossino and calling her names like “Honey Pot” and “Bear Cub.” He turns to Konrad and asks what relation the child is to anybody at the table, as she’s obviously not anyone’s daughter.

"Sir, I think you need to explain yourself and what your interest is in us and our private affairs. "

"She is our ward, sir, as we were commissioned by 'er mother to protect 'er on 'er way to stay with other family. As she 'as 'ad a very long day of travel and it would do 'er good to be left in peace to eat and get a wee bit of sleep, as we all 'ave another long day of travel tomorrow.
So if'n you please we just need a bit of quiet time. 'hank you muchly."
ArdFionn turns back to Bianka and ignores Moritz, telling Bianka a story of her childhood growing up in the forest, watching fireflies play tag as they skim the streams and trying to fish in the rivers with nothing but her bare hands, and often ending up soaked to the bone from falling into the shallows. And telling her about the first time she met Wystria, when she was but a foal running wild through the forest.

For her part Bianka still seems to be traumatized by recent events, and answers the occasional question politely but largely ignores the stranger. He talks on a very short while longer, asking you your destination. “Oh, I mean no harm, friend elf, jus’ makin’ conversation is all’ passin’ the time, if you will. Well, I see you are a private bunch so I’ll take my leave. I have to get my boat on the move early in the morning and need my rest. Good even to you all.” He stands, bows slightly and leaves your table.

"We have a long way to go tomorrow, and since the locals don't seem to know much in the way of useful information, I am going to get some rest."

Quietly to the rest of the group, but away from Bianka so as too hopefully keep the little one from hearing. "Aye, get some rest, but one of us stays awake at all times. I n'er trust 'hat one, he seemed a bit too interested in the youngin', and wit' a boat we n'er catch 'im."
"We'll take shifts, I'll take the first, who should I wake in a few hours?"

"I will volunteer for the second shift. Who will follow me?"

"If'n you can wake me, I'll be doin' it. Goblins ain't no substitute fer real men, an I'm still needin' to stretch me cleavin' arm.”

Konrad rises to go get some rest.
"I'll take last shift. I'm an early riser anyway.
Moving slowly, the wounded squire heads to the room.

About an hour before dawn, while Konrad is on watch, Moritz Hausler enters the common room. Upon noticing the squire he whispers a “Mornin” to him. In quiet tones he relays the fact that he has to get out on the river early this day, but he wishes Konrad and his companions safe travel.”

“I Must Save Helga”

Konrad is caught by surprise when Moritz suddenly swings a cudgel at his head. “Now boys,” whispers the erstwhile traveler.

The commotion has woken ArdFionn. We are in initiative order with ArdFionn, up next, laying on the ground.

ArdFionn, who rises and grabs her sword positioning herself between the men and Bianka.
"Aye, I knew I 'ad you pegged from moment one there laddy. Nothin' but a bandit and kidnapper you be. Wake yourselves men we be under attack and the lil' ones in danger!" ArdFionn shouts this last part hoping to wake the rest of her companions.

Moritz wheels on ArdFionn and strike her head with his cudgel, but fails to do any damage.

Two other humans in leather jerkins rise up and produce cudgels. The other patrons are beginning to stir due to the noise.

LogazNir snores loudly.

Konrad is up.

and Galadaeg?

I apologize. Galadaeg also remains asleep.

((Bwahaha))

Konrad wields his demilance that he was absently toying with a moment before. Rising to his feet, he attempts to bring down the ringleader.

Konrad’s attack fails (78 rolled).

Galadaeg has woken and may now act, followed by ArdFionn.

ArdFionn will attempt to hit the ring leader with the flat of her sword, as she really wants a few answers from this skum.
"Oy, you like 'itting the ladies do ya, well 'his one 'it's back, and I be thinkin' you don't know quite what you bit off when you picked 'his lil' fight."

Galadaeg is going to elbow LogazNir to try and wake him up, draw his sword with his other hand, and do a charge attack if possible, if not, then an all out attack.

Galadaeg will only have time for a regular attack and the enemy is too close for a charge. Galadaeg strikes Moritz’s right arm (04 rolled), but fails to do any damage (5 rolled -1 for leather jack – 4 TB = 0)

There are no rules for flat of the blade so I’m going to use the unarmed combat rules. ArdFionn misses her target (50 rolled).

Moritz swings his cudgel at ArdFionn but misses. He shouts, “Get to my Helga!”

One of Moritz’s companions stands and swings his cudgel at ArdFionn and misses.

LogazNir is now awake and may act.

"Now this be service!" LogazNir exclaims upon noticing the fight. "Was gettin' tired o' them goblins anyways." The dwarf will roll onto his feet, draw his axe and attack the closest ruffian.

LogazNir’s axe swings wide (55 rolled.)

Another ruffian rises to attack ArdFionn but misses.

Konrad is up.

Konrad continues his attack, jabbing savagely with his demilance in an attempt to impale his opponent.

Konrad’s blow misses (52 rolled).

(autoposted for Hyarion while he’s traveling): Galadaeg once more launches a full-out attack on Moritz and slashes across his head (01 rolled) doing 8 wounds (reduced for Toughness). Moritz is lightly injured.

ArdFionn is up.

ArdFionn drops her sword and grabs her net from the ground. "Who in the bloody hell is Helga?" ArdFionn tosses the net over Moritz, still keeping herself between the thugs and Bianka.

A net is a ranged weapon and you can’t use a ranged weapon (unless it s a pistol) in melee. ArdFionn would have to take a full action to disengage and get away from immediate threat before she could use it.

On his next actions, LogazNir will fly into a frenzy and make an All Out Attack against his opponent.

ArdFionn switches her sword to her left hand and swings a fist at Moritz's face. "Who in the bloody hell is Helga?" ArdFionn yells, still keeping herself between the thugs and Bianka.

ArdFionn’s punch misses Moritz’s face and glances harmlessly off his shoulder (31 rolled).

Moritz swings his cudgel at ArdFionn but misses.

His first companion does likewise, and likewise misses, if only narrowly.

Logaznir’s blow fails to land (83 rolled).

Moritz’s other companion swings wildly at ArdFionn and misses.

Konrad is up.

Konrad, frustrated by his lack of success, does what he can with a swift attack at Moritz.

Both of Konrad’s strikes fail to find their mark, the first just barely missing. (37 and 56 rolled)

Galadaeg continues to press the battle with an all-out attack on Moritz (14 rolled) striking him in the left arm for 8 wounds adjusted for armor and toughness (max. damage – failed to invoke Ulric’s Fury with an 85 rolled). Moritz is now heavily wounded, Galadaeg’s slash leaves Moritz’s arm a bloody ruin.

ArdFionn is up.

ArdFionn swings again at Moritz, "Your in no shape to fight, give up now and tell us why you are trying to kidnap the girl!" ArdFionn snarls at the Moritz.

ArdFionn’s blow just misses (37 rolled).

Moritz snarls back in pain, “She is mine! My Helga!”. His left hand hangs useless as he continues to strike at ArdFionn, his cudgel whistling just past her ear.

One of the other attackers swings and misses ArdFionn again.

LogazNir is up.

ArdFionn looks at the obviously disturbed man with a mixed expression of pity and absolute disbelief. "Wow, your a bit of a loon, aren't ya?"

LogazNir is just getting warmed up, and makes another All Out Attack at his opponent, largely ignoring the Elf's attempts at diplomacy.

LogazNir’s attack again misses (80 rolled.)

The other companion makes an all-out attack on ArdFionn but misses.

Konrad is up.

Konrad continues his attacks, attempting to at least make contact with his demilance. He attacks with a couple of swift attacks at Moritz.

Konrad, with a lightning-quick lunge, impales Moritz through the left arm. The point of his demilance punctures the wall of the man’s chest as well. Moritz’s eyes cloud as he coughs up blood, gurgling, “Helga” one last time as he reaches for the terrified Bianka.

Galadaeg makes an all-out attack, changing his target to one of the companions, and slicing into his right arm for 11 wounds (adjusted down to 8 for TB). The man is now heavily wounded.

On seeing the death of Moritz, ArdFionn delays her action, watching for the reactions of his companions.

The heavily wounded one yells, “Moritz is down! I’m out!,” disengages and moves away 8 yards.

LogazNir is up.

LogazNir, if still engaged, will make a standard attack against his opponent. If however he was fighting the man who was wounded, he will try to close and grapple the man.

LogazNir charges the fleeing individual, catching up to him but failing to grab hold (96 rolled).

The other man also turns and flees.

Konrad pulls free his demilance and looks down with a mix of pity and guilt at the man he has just killed. He looks at the dead man's expression, trying to figure out what wa going through his mind. Sighing, he looks back to Bianka, ignoring the fleeing man.
"Are you okay?"

Galadaeg charges the other man but also fails to grab on (79 rolled).

ArdFionn is up

ArdFionn puts her sword down and pulls a cloak over the dead man so he's not staring at Bianka anymore and then kneels down to checks on Bianka. "You ok 'lil one. He's not going to 'urt ya, he seemed to 'ave been a very disturbed man, but 'e can't 'urt you now. Now we 'ave to wait for the local constable, and we tell 'im what 'appened, and then hopefully we'll be able to get on the road and get you to where your mom asked we take you. So when the constable comes you answer all 'is questions the best you can al'right, can you do that 'lil one?"
ArdFionn looks up at Konrad.
"Konrad, why don't you go fetch the constable so we can get this part out of the way. We'll wait 'ere with 'er."

Once again the man being chased by LogazNir disengages, exiting the building. Does LogazNir pursue?

Konrad looks once more at the body under the cloak, then turns towards Bianka and ArdFionn.
"Constable, eh? Good idea. I'll be right back. Stay safe."
Konrad grabs the shield leaning against the table and straps it on before drawing his sword. Prepared for more trouble if it comes, he steps out the door.

LogazNir is appeased enough by the man's retreat to let him be for now.

The two accomplices escape into the very early morning. As Konrad is exiting the building, he is met by a man. “What in the name of Undine is going on here? I’m Hergard Brauer, the head man of Ossino. What has happened?”

Several witnesses relate the tale, all at once, to Brauer. With such corroboration, he has no doubts about your actions.

“I apologize for the trouble, and although it may further inconvenience you I needs ask you to stay another day in our village, as our guest, until the roadwardens can sort out the mess. We may even be bale to help with some of those wounds.”

Konrad frowns but eventually nods.
"Alright. I'm not happy about halting our journey. We have recently seen the troubles that can come from the enforcement of the roadwarden's "justice," as well. But, we could use some time to mend our wounds and we only encourage more banditry if we ignore the rules of the land. I, for one, will wait to clear this up with the law."
Konrad frowns again and looks down at the body.
"Anyone know anything about this Moritz character? Seemed a bit touched in the head, if you ask me?"

"Aye, we'll wait for the road wardens if'n we must. But tonight we try to get a real room, so we can protect 'er better. This room is far too open, I don't like it one bit."
ArdFionn helps Bianka up to her feet and finds a table for her to sit at and goes to speak to the tavern keeper about a room and to order breakfast for the two of them.
"We'll get you a bite to eat 'ows that sound and see if we can't try to put this day to right. Maybe see what the town 'as to do around 'ere."

"He did behave strangely. I am afraid that we have not seen the last of the other two, and that they will try again; with friends."

Nobody offers any insight into Moritz or his actions. You are taken to the head man’s guest house and made comfortable there, Brauer explaining that he feels responsible for the unfortunate incident in his own village. You are fed and given drink.

As far as what there is to do, there are the shrines and work. This is not a city, after all.

(I will let you know what is available for healing, beyond just rest, if anything.)

The village healer heals ArdFionn back to full health. Galadaeg is uninjured. Konrad is healed for 1 wound, so has 6 remaining. LogazNir is too heavily wounded for the woman to do anything.

Aubentag, Pflugzeit the 5^th, Year I.C. 2522

The Roadwardens arrive early the next morning to square things away. They even apprehended one of the accomplices, so your story is completely cooroborated and your actions justified in the eyes of the law. One of them eyes you curiously, but doesn’t hold a stare. You think you recognize him from the business back at the Strutting Cock, but he doesn’t speak with you.

It seems that Moritz’s tale is a sad one indeed. While he was away serving in the army, his daughter Helga disappeared in the forest while gathering berries. Search parties looked for the girl in vain, but she was never found. No body. No evidence of her fate. Nothing at all. While most folks just assumed that she ran afoul of Beastmen or Goblins, Moritz never gave up on hope his “Bear Cub” was still alive. His wife believe, too, until the day she was run down by an out-of-control wagon and killed.

Since losing both of his loved ones, Moritz became a wanderer. He also became paranoid, thinking everyone was out to get him. He traveled with Edgar Grosz and Ralf Kahl on the River Stir, doing odd jobs to make ends meet.

When Moritz saw the face of young Bianka, he became convinced that his Helga had returned from the forest. He simply wanted to reclaim his lost daughter and protect his family from those he was convinced meant them harm.

You are given leave to depart. Your trip by road to Hermsdorf will take 2 more days. Do you wish to do anything before you travel on?

ArdFionn thanks Brauer for his hospitality and asks him for the directions to the clothier and the general store.
At the store she gets some food and water to make sure Bianka has enough for the trip, and at the clothier tries to find a warm cloak to keep Bianka warm on the road. "Put this on lil' one so ya keep warm. I don't know of any towns between and 'ermsdorf, so it might get a bit chilly t'night."
"Konrad, can your 'orse carry a few more pounds? I grabbed the lil' one some food for the trip."

Unfortunately, Ossino has no general store and ArdFionn can find none of the supplies she was seeking, this being a poor village.

"The sooner we get on the road, the sooner we can get the girl to safety"

Konrad grabs the food bundle and distributes it through his saddlebags.
"Fresh bread, cheese, a little dried meat. I'll gladly carry this if it means a few nights on the road with a full belly for a change."
The young squire grins, but it looks odd on his face. The past week, with the stress and injuries, as taken its toll.
"Let's hope we don't run into anymore trouble."
Konrad looks over to LogazNir.
"Not sure how much trouble any of us can take."

You head out on your trip to Hermsdorf. Please let me know if you’re doing anything special on the road.)

If the party meets any Elven Kithbands, Galadaeg will pass on information of the Beastherd he was originally tracking and ask after any information of his own Kithband. Otherwise, nothing.

make sure to set up watches at night and try and find what food and water we can on the road.

Konrad can think of nothing new to add to the travel situation. He goes along with ArdFionn's travel plan.

LogazNir will just plod away with his usual dwarven dignity, and hope that Hermsdorf has a more capable healer.

The first day’s travel passes without incident. Unfortunately, it also passes without finding sustenance. Just when you think you can go no further this day, you see warm, welcoming lights from up ahead. Approaching you see a sign on the building; “The Leaping Frog Inn.”

You are given stabling, rooms and food for the night before heading back out the next morning.

Stabling costs 10 brass pennies.

Meals cost 10 brass pennies each (ArdFionn will pay for Bianka’s), but are decent, consisting of bread and cheese, pie and ale, or a thick vegetable and meat stew if you prefer.

There are private rooms available and can each hold 2 per room (Bianka is small enough to stay in one with 2 adults.) These cost 10 silver shillings per room.

Marktag, Pflugzeit the 6^th, Year I.C. 2522

You wake the next morning and head out, knowing you will reach Hermsdorf this evening. Konrad has regained 1 wound overnight.

As you travel along a heavily forested part of the road, ArdFionn notices 3 greenskins trying to conceal themselves in the forest next to the road. These are larger than the goblins previously faced. These are orcs; about the same size as a human but hunched over, heavily muscled and with skin varying shades of green. Their faces look somewhere between an ugly Human’s and a hairless boar’s with short but pointed ears, low foreheads, heavy brows, small eyes and huge tusk-filled mouths.

One is wearing a chain shirt over a leather jack and a helmet. It wields a huge, heavy blade and has a shield on its other arm. The other two are wearing chain shirts over leather jacks and leather skullcaps. They also are carrying choppas and shields.

ArdFionn is permitted one round of action.

ArdFionn prepares her net as she alerts her companions to the danger. She waits until one comes in range to cast her net at it.

Galadaeg may now take a combat action.

Galadaeg whips out an arrow and lets fly towards the nearest orc.
Actions:
Ready Bow.
Load arrow (free)
Shoot.

Galadaeg’s arrow flies long and misses (77 rolled.)

ArdFionn holds her net ready.

One of the Orcs in leather skullcap crashes out of the tree line and moves to attack

ArdFionn. He makes it only a couple of yards when she lets fly with her net. As the netting settles around its head and shoulders the orc bellows in a tongue you do not understand.

The orc wearing a helmet bellows back, moves out of the woods and swings his choppa at the entagled orc! The blow does not connect.

The second orc in leather skullcap moves out of the woods to ArdFionn and brings his choppa down heavily on her left leg for 3 wounds (7 reduced for TB).

LogazNir and Konrad may go and then Galadaeg and ArdFionn may go again.

LogazNir will be considered to be holding unless posted for before 10:40 am today.

Konrad groans when he sees the orcs. When the fighting begins, however, his face becomes a mask of anger. Charging forward on his horse, he attempts to send them running. With a vicious yell, he drives the demilance towards the orc with the heavy lance and shield.
"Flee, scum! Flee and you may live this day! Fight and you will die!"

As all the orcs are armed with choppas and shields, and the one attacking

ArdFionn is too close to charge, I assume you mean the one in the helmet.

Unfortunately Konrad misses (80 rolled.)

Galadaeg and ArdFionn may now go.

May I spend a fortune point to give Konrad another shot at that orc, please?

You may. Konrad’s blow actually aimed true for the right leg of the large orc (09

rolled), but the greenskin parried the strike at the last minute with his shield.

Galadaeg takes careful aim at the orc attacking ArdFionn and fires, but misses (85

rolled.)

ArdFionn draws her sword an attacks the orc next to her. Her sword almost connects with the orc’s right leg (09 rolled), but the greenskin parries with his shield. Such ios the ferocity of her below, however (successfully involving Ulric’s Fury, that the shield becomes damaged.

The orc ensnared in ArdFionn’s net bursts free.

The largest orc turns his choppa against Konrad but misses.

The orc next to ArdFionn swings at her but misses.

LogazNir and Konrad may go.

Konrad will attempt a swift attack against the largest orc, hoping to down him quickly and send the others fleeing.

Konrad just misses (36 rolled).

The orc attacking ArdFionn is very near LogazNir. He snaps out of his concern and makes a Guarded Attack on the orc, missing (71 rolled.)

The large orc chops at Konrad’s but Konrad parries the blow with his shield

Konrad’s second attack misses

Galadaeg changes his target to the orc not involved in combat, takes aim and hits the beast in the head for 5 wounds (modified for TB; the arrow pierces the leather skullcap).

ArdFionn attacks her orc again but misses (55 rolled).

ArdFionn uses Fortune Point to re-roll the attack, but that missed also (51 rolled).

The orc that was entangled moves on ArdFionn and swings its choppa into her body for 2 wounds (reduced for armor and TB).

The large orc attacks Konrad again but misses.

One of the orcs brings its choppa down on ArdFionn’s left arm for 1 wound.

LogazNir makes another guarded attack, hitting the orc in the left arm except the beast parries the blow again. This time, however, the impact shatters its shield.

Konrad, stunned and weak, will muster his strength for an all-out-attack against the helmeted orc.

Konrad’s attack misses (82 rolled.)

The orc again chops at Konrad but misses.

Galadaeg will aim and fire a second arrow towards the unengaged orc.
OOC: are there BS bonuses to being at point blank range?

There is no point-blank bonus and there no longer any unengaged orcs. One is fighting Konrad and the other two are engaged with ArdFionn and LogazNir.

Galadaeg’s aimed shot into melee hits the previously wounded orc in the body (36 rolled) for 12 wounds (to be adjusted by armor, (modified by armour-piercing quality) and toughness bonus). The orc is heavily wounded.

"Oh for cryin' out loud, can't we 'ave a single day of peace and quiet?"
ArdFionn quips as she continues to attack the more wounded of the orcs on her.

ArdFionn changes her target to the orc pierced by Galadaeg’s arrows but misses (68 rolled)

One of the Orcs aims a blow at ArdFionn but misses.

Another Choppa-stroke at Konrad cuts through the air, and only the air.

The second orc makes an all-out attack on ArdFionn but also misses.

LogazNir and Konrad are up.

Konrad will continue jabbing at the helemted orc with his demilance, delivering a swift attack.

ArdFionn continues attack the wounded orc in front of her hoping to drop him and then move on to the next.

LogazNir savagely brings his greataxe across in a backhanded left-to-right swing.

LogazNir’s attack misses (68 rolled.)

Konrad misses with his first attack (83 rolled).

The large orc misses his second attack on Konrad.

Konrad’s second attack likewise misses (25 rolled.)

If Galadaeg has a clear shot on the heavily wounded orc, he will Load/Fire then Load and Fire again. Otherwise he will draw his sword and move to go help LogazNir.

Galadaeg has no clear shot, so draws his sword and advances, but will have to wait until next round to attack.

ArdFionn’s aimed attacks misses (51 rolled).

The heavily wounded orc turns to attack Galadaeg but fails to connect.

The large orc brings it’s choppa down against Konrad, but the squire successfully parries the blow with his shield.

The orc that lost its shield makes an all out attack against ArdFionn, but misses.

LogazNir and Konrad are up.

Konrad realizes that his foe is his match, if not his better. Not seeing anyway to escape this battle without abandoning his aliies, he attempts another swift attack, hoping he can at least wound this beast.

LogazNir will feint a quick slash in order to aid Galadaeg's attack.
((I don't have time to check the rules at the moment, but I seem to recall something along these lines being valid.

A successful feint attack means your next attack can neither be dodged or parried. As that is not the effect you were going for, and the second orc’s shield was destroyed, I’m going to assume an aimed attack (to allow you the chance to dodge should you be hit.)

LogazNir’s axe slams into the head of the orc (30 rolled) for 4 damage, but the beast suffers no wounds (leather skullcap and toughness bonus).

Konrad’s first attack misses (56 rolled).

The large orc swings his choppa at Konrad’s body but the blow is parried again! (04 rolled).

Konrad’s second attack misses (72 rolled).

I’m going to continue with previously described actions unless you post something different. A retroactive post, if timely, is allowed.

Furious that the orc isn't down yet, Galadaeg will do an all out attack on the orc he is closest to.

Galadaeg’s attack misses (79 rolled.)

ArdFionn makes an aimed attack and also misses (50 rolled.)

The orc with the arrows in him brings his choppa across, into Galadage’s body for 13 damage (luckily Ulric’s Fury was not invoked), reduced to 10 by Hunter’s Toughness Bonus. Galadaeg is heavily wounded and reduced to 0 Wounds.

The lead orc brings his choppa down on Konrad’s head. Konrad tries to parry the blow but fails (91 rolled). Konrad loses 4 wounds (8 reduced by 2 for mail coif and 2 for toughness bonus). Konrad is heavily wounded at 1 wound.

The other orc makes an all out attack against LogazNir and misses.

LogazNir’s aimed attack just misses (64 rolled).

Konrad’s first attack misses (42 rolled.)

Luckily, so does the large orc’s second strike at Konrad.

As does Konrad’s second attack (74 rolled).

Galadaeg’s next all-out attack hits the shieldless orc in the right arm (52 rolled) for 9 damage (reduced to 5 by leather jack and toughness). That orc is now lightly wounded.

ArdFionn’s aimed attack just misses (48 rolled).

The heavily wounded orc aims an attack at ArdFionn but misses.

The leader chops into Konrad’s right arm. Konrad just misses parrying the blow (43 rolled) and so takes a critical value 2 hit. Konrad earns an insanity point, and his right arm is demolished! Konrad drops his demilance and is bleeding heavily, with a 20% chance of bleeding to death each round until medical attention is received. Any future critical hits this round will follow the Sudden Death rules.

The lightly wounded orc without a shield makes an all out attack against LogazNir and misses.

Due to the current situation, I’m going to give LogazNir and Konrad a while to post their actions before I auto-post and continue the combat.

I'll spend my second Fortune point to re-roll that Parry. If that fails, I will spent a Fate Point to some how make it through the encounter. If the parry is successful, I will counterattack with a swift attack as usual.

Konrad successfully parries the blow! (14 rolled), so no demolished arm, demilance still couched and no insanity point.

A dead elf is a useless elf, at this point, Galadaeg is going to use whatever fortune points he has/ the free success to stay alive.

LogazNir makes an aimed attack at the shieldless orc and hits its left arm (55 rolled) for 12 wounds (reduced to 7 by leather jack and toughness bonus). So savage is LogazNir’s attack that he tears through the leather jack, exposing the orc’s left arm.

Konrad’s first attack misses (43 rolled).

The large Orc’s attack comes down on Konrad’s head. The squire fails to dodge the blow (96 rolled.) 14 points of damage translates to a level 10 critical hit after armor and TB deductions.

The rest of the party sees Konrad unhorsed by a vicious blow. Konrad knows no more of the battle. (Konrad earns an insanity point and spends a Fate point)

Galadaeg makes an all out attack on his target orc, again hitting its right arm (32 rolled) for 5 points of damage, but none gets through the combination of leather jack and orc toughness.

ArdFionn’s aimed attack hits the orc in the head (11 rolled) as it fails to parry the blow. 8 points of damage are reduced but still result in a level 4 critical hit. ArdFionn’s blade pierces the orc’s skull, instantly killing it.

Seeing this, the large orc charges ArdFionn, bringing his choppa in a brutal arc down at her head. The elf parries the blow (16 rolled). The orc in the helmet bellows something.

The other orc turns and makes an all-out attack against ArdFionn, but misses.

LogazNir aims a blow at the smaller orc and turns its left leg into a dangling mass of bloody meat. The beast goes down hard.

Galadaeg makes an all-out attack on the last remaining orc, hitting its right arm (76 rolled), for 16 points of damage (successfully invoking Ulric’s Fury.) The damage is reduced to 11, heavily wounding the orc.

ArdFionn aims an attack at the large orc and slices into its right leg, turning it into a dangling mass of bloody meat.

The battle ends.

LogazNir will rush to check to see if Konrad is still breathing, but doesn't have any skills that would help the squire...

"Do we return to take advantage of what medical skills we can get out the hamlet we just visited? or do we press on and hope for the best?" says Galadaeg as he sits down on the ground tenderly.

The young squire comes to, surprisingly alive, if not heavily wounded. Your young charge Bianka comes out from behind a tree where she was hiding. She seems very happy that her protectors are alive and still possess all of their limbs. You reckon you are closer to Hermsdorf than anywhere else at this point.

"Aye, we should press on, I doubt that little town can do much for our wounds. Lets see if these buggers 'ad anything of use on them before we 'urry off. Anything we can use without slowing ourselves down."
"You al'right there lil'one? Come on now, whats say we get you to a safe bed and you're momma's wish for you."
ArdFionn takes quick stock of what the orcs had on them and collects her net, wipes her sword off on the orc before sheathing it and taking the little one by the hand.
"Let's 'ope the remainder of our trip is a little less exciting." She says with a reassuring wink to Bianka.

"Aye, ain't no point turnin' back now if'n we ever were wantin' to get there at'all. Might be that them beasties be thinkin' a twice a'fore tradin' blows with us again, but I'm to be missing them heads fer smashing..."
LogazNir helps the young man to his feet before heading back to the orcs and cleaning the blade of his axe on a relatively unbloodied one. With a quick check to see that all the monsters are truly dead, the dwarf is ready to move on once again.

The orcs are helped along their way to judgement by LogazNir. They had no possessions save the orcish armor and shields they wore (far too big for a human) and the heavy choppas they wielded.

Konrad climbs to his feet, leaning heavily on his demilance to stand. He looks around at the carnage, bewildered and disorientated.
"I can't believe we're still alive. Myself, especially. That one with the helmet was the strongest enemy I have ever faced. I'm lucky to still draw breath."
There is an odd look in the young squire's eye but he seems to be have stepped back from Death's door for the time being. With a groan, he steps into the stirrup and mounts Gorgon.
"Let's be on our way. The sooner we all find a bed and a healer, the better."

The Final Insult

The rest of your journey to Hermsdorf is uneventful. You arrive at the walled town at the junction of the Old Forest Road and Ossino Road. You are each charged a gate tax of 1 silver to enter.

"Ok lets get ourselves a room for the night, and get a meal in our bellies. Then first thing tomorrow we'll set about trying to find the man your momma told us to bring you too. 'ows that sound lil' one, your look a bit 'ungry."
ArdFionn asks the gateman for directions to a good tavern for some hot food and a soft bed.

As it’s not terribly late, and Bianka has had a very long trip, she seems very anxious to meet whoever it is you’ve come to show her right away.

"Al'right then, why don't we see if we can find out a bit about this person and where they might be."

I can understand that the girl is eager to be away from the danger that seems to follow us, but we could all use some medical attention, and the sooner the better, I think.

"Hrmph! Lets be quick to find yer magiked healin' then. Too much time in bed be makin' a man's arms grow soft," pipes in the Dwarf, perhaps a little more surly than usual.

Konrad chuckles softly at the dwarf speaks, then groans as the pain rushes through his body. After a moment of recovery, the squire speaks.
Magical healing, eh? Only truly great priests can call upon that sort of divine power. We're lucky if our wounds close without festering and we avoid dying of fever. What we need is food, drink, and rest, I'm afraid. The best a healer can do is make a nice bandage and maybe stitch some of these wounds, I imagine."

Overhearing your conversation, the gateman provides directions that give you several options.

You could see a physician, which would cost 30 silver shillings (this would restore 1d10 Wounds to a lightly injured character or 1 Wound to a heavily injured character – and you can only visit once per day).

You could go to a hostel and get a private room for 5 silver shillings each, plus 8 brass pennies to stable Goliath. Lightly injured characters will regain 1 Wound, but heavily injured characters would require a week of rest before regaining 1. There you could get a meal for anywhere from 1 to 10 brass pennies each, plus any drink you may like.

Or you could go in search of Healing Draughts, which will restore 4 wounds to a lightly injured character. A Healing Poultice, if found and purchased, would cause a heavily wounded character to be treated as lightly wounded in conjunction with a heal test (such as from a physician.)

By the way, if you are at 3 wounds or less, you are heavily injured.

The gateman asks for whom you and your child are looking?

"We're looking for 'err Wilhelm Leibniz. We were told to seek 'im out when we got 'ere."

The gateman replies, “Ahhh, the steward of Baron von Radische! Go to the townhouse at 2 Waldstrasse on a hill in the northeast corner of town. The home is one of the larger and better appointed in the neighborhood.” You are given directions you feel would be easy enough to follow.

ArdFionn offers Bianka her hand "Thank you, shall we 'ead there lil' one? Think you can remember all those directions?"
ArdFionn gives Bianka a cheerful wink and lets the girl pull her along a bit.
"Come on fellas, I doubt we'll be jumped in this place especially at this guys 'ouse. Besides we're this close to seein' the lil' one safely to 'er destination, we can rest soon enough. 'eck maybe then we can take a few days off and enjoy life a bit."

Konrad grins, but his eyes remain hard and grim. His face looks paler and thinner than you remember when you met him in the inn.
"I'd like to believe you, but with our luck, you can never say for sure."
That being said, Konrad continues on, practically laying on the back of Gorgon.

"Indeed, we shall probably find an evil sorceror or some foul cultist at the end of our journey. Then that healing draught would be most welcome." says the elf in a ragged voice. "Although not, I think, at this stage of our travels" he adds with a quick glance at Bianka.

The dwarf snorts derisively at the mention of the practitioners of magic, but follows along behind the others.

"Aye, I know I doubt this journey is over either, but without any proof or cause for doubt, we must trust this man is Steward for good reason, and can get the lil' one to 'er goal. Besides, this is the first time she's looked almost 'appy since we found 'er. Why take that away?"
ArdFionn says this quietly to the others, so as to keep Bianka from hearing as much as possible, and gives them a grim smile.
"Let's let 'er be 'appy for a bit, we'll stay with 'er till we know she's safe. 'ey, maybe they'll even be so kind as to give us a pillow for our 'eads for the night."

ArdFionn moves close to Konrad and whispers. "Konrad, you've a horse so you can move a bit faster. Maybe break off into the market or ask some of the people we pass about the Steward. Find out what kind of a man he is. I'll see if the lil' one would like to buy a new dress in the market, before she meets him, so she can be in something clean. To give us a little more time, just so we can go in with a bit of knowledge, not that he's been the one sending the bandits."
Moving away from Konrad "Aye, lil' one, should we see if the market has a dress? That ones a bit dirty, your last few days have taken quite a toll on it I'm afraid. That way you'll look you're best when you meet the Steward Leibniz. We might want to stop at the well so you can wash up that face too. What do you think, my treat."

Konrad, heavily wounded and torn up, can barely stay in the saddle. When ArdFionn gives him his task, though, he straightens in his saddle with a groan.
"Of course. I shall meet you near this Steward's home when I have the information you desire.
He rides off into town.

Galadaeg is going to be listening very intently to other people's conversations (with out making it seem obvious) to try and pick up some information as well.

You are unable to find a dress that Bianka likes. Seeing so many families together on market day makes her sullen and she stops even looking up after a while.

Konrad finds no information other than the Steward seems to be well-liked, even more-so since the tragedy.

Meeting again all together you knock on the door of the Steward’s home. A servant answers a few moments later. Looking down his nose at you he coolly asks your name and business.

"Bianka, may I please borrow your necklace?"
In a voice the obviously shows she couldn't care less about this man opinion ArdFionn speaks to the servent. "Please, show your Master this, and tell 'im we are 'ere to speak with 'im."
ArdFionn hold out the medallion and waits for the servent to get moving.

The servant does not take the medallion but asks you to enter and shows you to the drawing room. He tells you to take a seat as Herr Liebniz will arrive presently. He also instructs you not to touch anything as he closes the door.

A tall , lanky man with an air of authority, Herr Liebniz enters the room, warmly greeting all of you, including Bianka. With the medallion and your explanation that the girl is Bianka von Radische, and after asking you to explain the events that brought you together, Herr Liebniz acknowledges Bianka as the Baron von Radische’s daughter. Unfortunately much has changed in the last few days.Baron von Radische met with a hunting accident in the company of the Grand Duke and the Baron’s rival, Baron Waldemar von Zützen, second son of the ruler of the Barony of Zützen. The Grand Duke quickly elevated Baron Waldemar to replace the deceased Baron von Radische, as the latter had no recognized heir. One of the baron’s first acts was to replace Herr Liebniz as steward.

Realizing you are not able to raise Bianka in accordance to her station, Herr Liebniz tells you that he will take custody of von Radische’s daughter and raise her as her own. For your troubles Herr Liebniz pays you 10 gold crowns each. His only condition is that you do not reveal Bianka’s true identity. Herr Liebniz is concerned that if word gets out that von Radische has a daughter, Bianka’s life will be cut short by an “accident.” This last he, of course, whispers to you.

With that, Herr Liebniz bids you farewell.

Welcome to the Old World.

You each earn the following:

100 xp for completing the adventure

20 xp for saving the life of Emmerich Handler

50 xp for successfully returning Bianka to Hermsdorf

35 xp for good roleplaying (nay, excellent!)

You may interject anything you like to that last scene, or tell me what you’d like to do in Hermsdorf, if anything and/or, what you’d like to do with your xp, if anything.

LogazNir already has a healthy assortment of talents, so will spend 200 xp one a 10% increase to his WS. Being able to hit those greenskins with greater ease would make him very happy indeed. He will also, begrudgingly, seek out what medical aid the town offers.

LogazNir fails to find either healing poultice, healing draught or physician that can tend him, so his options are to procure a place and rest.

Galadaeg is going to increase WS by +5% and BS by +5% and also get some medical attention.

Being a hunter, Galadaeg cannot add anything to his WS. I have added 5% to his BS for 100 XP. Galadaeg has 105 XP remaining.

Galadaeg fails to find either healing poultice, healing draught or physician that can tend him, so his options are to procure a place and rest.

Konrad will raise his WS by 10% for 200 exp and see what kind of healing medicine is available. Then he'll probably seek out a room and a stable for Gorgon.

Konrad fails to find either healing poultice, healing draught or physician that can tend him, so his options are to procure a place and rest.

ArdFionn takes a 5% adavance in WS and BS. She finds both a healing poultice and an available physician. For 30 silver shillings and 5 brass pennies, one of you would be able to gain 1d10 wounds back by paying a visit.

Any/all of us? or just one of us?
Galadaeg will also purchase one additional wound to bring his total to 11 wounds.

Err, LogazNir would like to subtley (not really possible given his personality...) ask where ArdFionn found such aid.

ArdFionn shares the information, but only 1 poultice could be found and the physician has time to see only one of you today.

LogazNir is patient enough (just) to wait for tomorrow.

Galadaeg will let Konrad take first crack at the poultice if he wants it.

Konrad stubbornly reassures Galadaeg that he is fine, but all evidence points the other way. After only a brief moment of hesitation, Konrad gratefully accepts the poultice.
"This will be very helpful when I see the physician, I am sure. Thank you."
The squire fumbles through his coin purse.
"How much was it?"
30 silver shillings and 5 brass pennies later, Konrad regains 1 wound. It’s not an exact sign.

I’m going to make the assumption that you’re going to rest until healed before seeking out more adventure, searching for the most effective healing possible on a daily basis. I’ll let you know how long you’re down and how much you spend. Let me know if you would like to get anything else in the town.

Then, if all are willing, we can start the next adventure.

Sounds good to me, and if Galadaeg is feeling up to it (in between healings), he will try and hunt some game to try and make a little money on the side.

Konrad will spend a great deal of time in bed, hoping to find better medical attention but also trying to conserve coin. When he is up, he will attempt to discover the whereabouts of Sir Garonstern, the drunken knight he has been too preoccupied to search for in a while.

LogazNir will also spend as much time possible resting and searching for a physician to aid him.

Bezahltag, Pflugzeit the 16^th, Year I.C. 2522

The town of Hermsdorf, Talabecland

It is some 9 or 10 days before you are all fully healed, with the help of poultice and physician (and, of course, coin). Galadaeg is warned away from venturing outside the city alone in his current condition. Konrad finds no information specifically about Sir Garonstern, but does come up with some leads, all pointing to Middenland. He also meets a rather adventurous brewer (this is a new character joining the game).

Please make sure you let me know if you want to look for any gear in the city before you leave.

While the group is resting and recuperating they meet an interesting man in the local tavern. He sits alone in the corner. A thin human in his mid twenties. Yellow blond hair and some of the nastiest teeth you've come across. Too bad really, he may have been handsome.
Anyway....
He sits with 4 empty pints next to him, a fifth in his hand. He is swishing the warm ale around in his mouth slowly, then quickly, then slowly again. He stops momentarily to scribble some notes in a book open in front of him.
"Ahhhh a grassy finish, I like it!" he proclaims as he spots one of you.
"Not a bad ale I must say. Not the best in Hermsdorf, but not bad at all. The hops should be roasted slower I think."
He takes another sip.
"Yes, slower indeed."
"You look like a group that has seen action of late. I can see it in your eyes. A battle yes? I do love a good battle story, reminds me of the time I fought that group of mutants back in.... Oh never mind, You go first!"
He stops rambling and stares intently......

A dirty and disheveled dwarf seems to be the only one of the group willing to approach the chatty drunkard. Like his companions, he looks the part of an adventurer; his body is adorned with the small bruises and scrapes that travel brings, his belongings are well worn but serviceable, and he is covered in innumerable scars and a bandage or two. But perhaps most noticeable is the large ring hanging from his nose.
"If'n yer ready to share some o' that swill I be ready to be sharin' a tale or two." The dwarf says, taking a seat opposite the man and checking the tankards for any forgotten contents.

"Why certainly sir dwarf. I believe they may be out of ale, but the lager here is pretty good too. These two tankards are yours if you wish. I'll stick with this one."
You notice the wooden tankard in his hand isn't from the inns collection, but one of his own, covered in intricate carvings....

Konrad stares off into space, sitting at the table with his hand folded before him. When Logaznir starts speaking, however, he seems to be broken from his trance.
"Oh? Eh...sorry."
The young man stands up, his damaged mail jangling about him. Leaning slightly on his demilance, Konrad walks over. His face is distinctive yet not ugly, with a large nose, deep brow, and a mole on his cheek. He extends his hand.
"The name is Konrad. I'd be happy to share a story, though I'm not much of a storyteller."

"Konrad? Ahhh well met Konrad! You are?"
He turns to the dwarf, his eager eyes awaiting a response.
"Sit, sit, TWO, Ummmmm, FOUR, Ahhhhhh SIX LAGERS PLEASE!" he calls to the serving woman.
"You have a story?" he asks.

The scarred dwarf regards the man across the table for a moment before scooping up the remains of the two lagers and gulping them down.
"I ain't be one fer names, but people call me LogazNir. As fer a story...." The dwarf breaks off, obviously putting some effort into looking as pensive as possible.
The drinks arrive before LogazNir is willing to continue, and the dwarf takes the distraction as an opportunity to down half his portion in a single draw.
"As fer a tale," he continues, " I'm thinkin' I've got just the one. It ain't a war story, nor t'is it a grand adventure like them bards spew. But it be true an' a good pit tale to boot! Back when I be younger, but not bein' too long ago--if'n you understand me--I was up to fight a rhinoped."
The dwarf stops to gauge everyone's reaction before continuing. " Ya know, a rhinoped! Big thing, sharp pointy horn comin' out o' its face," he says, sticking a stubby finger out through his nose-ring to emulate a horn. "They say that the champions o' the pit fights can slay a rhinoped in only two strokes," he continues, making two wild pokes at Konrad's midsection, "each one bein' aimed at slicin' open one o' the beast's two hearts. Well I ain't no champion now, an' sure as rain wasn't no champion then. I went into that pit with nothin' but a small chopper an' me shield."
Well, that beast had been waitin' on me a'fore I even hopped down into the pit to fight 'im. He was knowin' that only one of us was gonna be walkin' away from there." LogazNir leans over to ArdFionn and whispers, if loudly enough for the rest of the table to hear, "What it didn't know was that if'n a beast managed to ever kill a pit fighter it got honored by bein' that night's fare on the lord's table!" The dwarf starts again at a louder pace' "Well, he came chargin' at me like the daemons o' hell themselves were spurrin' 'im on. With only me shield an' chopper, I wasn't fer standing there an' gettin' me head stomped"
The dwarf jumps to his feet (though it hardly makes a difference in his height) and pulls a handaxe from his belt. After looking about for a moment, he hefts one of the empty tankards as his shield and climbs up onto the table top where he strikes up a battle stance.
"I tired to jump out o' the way, but he was quicker an' one o' 'is shoulders--each as broad as me whole self!-- clipped me an' sent me rollin' through the mud an blood till I hit the the the side," he says, and tumbles, rather roughly, off the table and onto the floor. Standing up and dusting himself off, he continues, his voice raising a little with every word: "Whelp, by the time I was pickin' myself off o' the ground, the rhinoped was back at runnin' me down. I was knowin' that I'd never out-run it. I decided to act more like a dwarf an' less like a weak goblin an' stoop me ground, shield raised and axe ready to turn 'im into a pile o' steak!"
"BAM!,"
With a shout LogazNir carelessly throws his impromptu shield back over his head and into the air. Pulling a long, and seemingly petrified, loaf of bread from one of his pockets, the dwarf sticks it under his left armpit as if impaled, and runs himself back wards into the nearby wall, where he stands rigidly, but lets his eyes close and his head sag against his chest.
After a few moments of silence, LogazNir peeks open one eye and waves for his companions to come closer.

Gustav instantly climbs down from his stol and rushes over to the dwarf. A look of extreme interest on his face?
He eagerly waits.

Galadaeg, enjoying the 'entertainment' immensely, is hardly about to interrupt the unfolding drama now.

Konrad starts to climb to his feet, groans with pain, then sits back down, thinkiing it wiser to remain seated. Despite this, he watches the dwarf with great interest.

Barely audible, the dwarf whispers: "Me drink. I'm needin' the rest o' me drink."
He doesn't move, but looks at the group rather expectantly...

Gustav's eyes light up as he hears what the dwarf needs. He turns around abruptly and lunges for the table. He grabs the tankard and spins around to deliver it to the dwarf. His eyes wide open with enthusiasm.

Just about everyone in the place is hanging on LogazNir’s every word, ooohing, ahhing, and cheering at the appropriate points. Even the tavernkeeper has come out to sit at a nearby table, mug in hand. He calls for the serving girl. “Mollie, I’m takin’ a break. Keep me whistle wet, and for that table there, too. Gents, and lady, it’s on me.”

With his "impaled," but obviously eager, arm LogazNir takes the tankard and downs the drink, spilling more that a little down his front.
"Well, a rhinoped's horn be longer than an elf's arm, an' that beastie's horn went right clean through me shoulder here," he shrugs his left arm, "an' stuck me good to the pit wall. I was bleedin' a fair share, an' me left arm weren't movin' none."
The dwarf's craggy face suddenly lights up in a smile.
"But fer all its pushin', it couldn't stick me harder into the wall; an' fer all its pullin', it couldn't get its horn out. Them rhinopeds ain't made fer backin' up. So even though I was bleedin' and stuck, he was worse. He had an angry an' bedeviled dwarf hangin' from his face."
LogazNir starts swinging his axe around wildly, barely missing a few listeners. A few close calls later he lets the old bread under his arm and the empty tankard in his hand fall to the ground before sliding down into a sitting position himself. When he continues speaking again his voice is quieter.
"Took me a quarter stan, but I got him dead an' managed to free meself from what was left o' his head. Even fer his size and his horn, most o' that gore an' blood on me when I was leavin' the pit was his own." LogazNir lets out a deep and sincere sigh. "I still keep carryin' a shield around with me, but I've yet to be usin' it. I'm thinkin' there be a lesson or two here. It don't matter how big you are, or how big a sword you got. But more important-like, sometimes you have take a hit so that you can return the favor. You gotta make small sacrifices every time you fight."
From the scars covering the dwarf's body, it seems he has taken that lesson to heart.

Your entire table finds they need not spend a single coin this evening. Whether it if be food or drink, as soon as a desire is voiced, a hand is there paying for it.

ArdFionn sits quietly at the table her feet up on an empty stool. She's listening to the tale, as far as you can guess, hard to say for sure as she has a hat cocked forward covering most of her face, and would look almost asleep, if it weren't for the fire glinting off her eyes.
Every now and then she takes a sip from her tankard.
"Me t'anks gentlemen, a good tale and a good brew, quite the way to end an evenin'. We be needin' more of t'is when we be out on the roads."

What a tale sir Dwarf!!!!" Gustav proclaims when the dwarf finishes.
"I am quite inspired by your bravery and wits in battle!" he adds.
"I'm afraid I haven't a tale of my own at this time. I have traveled many a road over the last year. But haven’t the opportunity to look death in the eye yet."
This strikes you as a rather odd thing to say.
"Perhaps my chance is coming soon! I can only hope!" Gustav empties his custom tankard and wipes the foam from his mouth. He looks at Logaznir again, in awe....

As the night continues, Konrad drinks in relative silence, his dark eyes burning in the firelight. After enough drink, he finds his tongue loosened. Konrad turns to ArdFionn.
"You hear that story before. There...there's a real warrior. Strong, tough, and victorious. Then there's me. Just a stupid boy whose life was saved by the equipment his station allows him to own. I'm wearing steel mail, I'm riding a fine horse. Yet some ignorant greenskin can effortlessly evade every blow I delivered and felled me like a tree. I saw openings but...I wasn't fast enough, strong enough, skilled enough..."
Konrad stops, staring into the fire again.
"I've had too much to drink. I should find my bed."
With that, the squire finds his feet with some difficulty and heads toward his room at the hostel.

"While the entertainment is certainly better than I would see on the road during my travels, and the free food is most welcome; my feet long for the open road! I find I yearn for the hunt once again, or at least to keep my skills sharp so that when I finally meet the accursed beastmen, I will be able to strike them down. Gustav, what brings you to this lively tavern?"

"Beastmen?!?" Gustav starts up as soon as he hears the words.
"Oh, me? Why the ale of course!" he swishes a bit from another full tankard around in his mouth a bit. He looks deep in thought.
"Just arrived in town yesterday. I'm on my way to Untergard next. I hear that the recent events surrounding the Chaos incursion have destroyed one of my favorite taverns. "The Ducks Feather" I wish to pay it a visit and pay my respects."

Having finished his tale, LogazNir takes advantage of the free food and drink but otherwise allows the evening to proceed around him. When he isn't listening in on the words of others, he seems lost in thought and time.

ArdFionn sits quietly by the fire through most of the activities, always seeming asleep to those who don't look close. For those that look though she is quite awake and watching all the comings and goings very intently, her keen elven ears listening to all the happenings.
When the brewmaster speaks of traveling into an area infested with the foul beings of chaos, her head turns slightly toward the table, yet the rest of her body remains completely motionless.
"An' 'ow, Master Gustav, do you plan on gettin' into an area o'errun by those foul creatures alive? I've only meet a 'andful of people who 'ave gone into the path of chaos and survived to tell the tale, and of that 'andful most wish they 'adn't."

Untergard would not be a difficult travel from your current location. In fact, it would also bring Konrad closer to the rumors of his Sir Garonstern. The Old Dwarf Road goes north to Talabheim and then crosses the River Talabec into Hochland. Through Hergig and over the border into Middenland, where it becomes the Old Forest Road, past Schopperdor and you’re there!

"Well Miss, I be sticking to the roads thats fer sure! No desire to head off through the forest or nuthin. I must say goodbye to one of my favorite taverns. It just wouldn’t be right to not pay my respects."
"Where are you all heading?"

"Their silence be meanin' none o' us have givin' it much thinkin'," pipes in the dwarf between bites of something that looks only faintly like the meat it was claimed to be.

"After Untergard I haven given it much thought. Middenheim I guess. The City of the White Wolf held out pretty well against the chaos armies from what I hear."

(OOC: I put Konrad to bed after his self-pity party. If you'd prefer for roleplaying purposes, I can have him return.)