1351 Campaign - Act 2: Incoming Calamity from the North

[DM Theophanies]

Lich Vignette: Through the Rift

The rift closed with a sudden hiss and a loud pop that resonated like thunder as the magic Pusshroud used to destroy the very fabric between the planes was exhausted. The wind continued to howl through the expanse of desolate rocky hills originating from the ever menacing Towers of Ruin in the distance. Even this far out, near the border of Talos's realm the winds still felt like a hurricane blowing unceasingly against any whom dared to stand within.

Further out the howling winds clashed with the violent reddish waves of the Blood Sea. Several dark cloaked and hooded individuals mull around the ancient netherese lich just beyond where the rift once stood. They keep a respectful distance though from the often volitile and insanity stricken mage. Pusshroud cocks his head back surveying the much larger horde of giant necromentals that surrounded him. The violence and desire to kill in their subtle actions and looks only pleased Pusshroud as they were held in check by the Worm, a large and malicious grin crept across his skeletal features.

"Oh Abel!" the lich uttered as insanity slowly crept in and out of his intellect, though the thought was left at that as laughter erupted from Pusshroud. He then turned to one a few of the dark cloaked individuals uttering: "First we'll lock my brother away, then we'll finish what we started in Orzogoth... i'll finally be free of the Shadow King..." A furious storm of lightning then lit up the sky, chain lightning striking down scaring the soil and electrifying the air while other bolts struck and pulsed through several necromentals. This only make Pusshroud smile more.

[PiaMango]

Members of various factions of the coast met to address the growing threats to the north and east within the Helm and Cloak.

The follow report is set, avaliable for those who had attended to read.

7th Elesias
1351, Year of the Crown

Decisions from the Council
It has been the decision of the council to focus upon fortifying our positions, gathering forces and getting civilians to safety. In our current state taking a direct battle with the undeath of the Reaching Woods in the wall-less city of Scornubel is heavily unfavoured and evacuation advised. Word will be spread in calls of aid in the immediate reaches of Faerun to aid in our cause to rally our army. Alternative allies in this cause should be explored, advice of recruiting mercenaries will be brought to the Dukes in the upcoming Foreign Exchange Committee.

Objectives
Sightings of Undeath and disturbances in the Fields of Dead and Troll Claws.
In recent days there have been reports of movement of undeath and disturbances in the Fields of Dead and Troll Claws. Task has been set to investigating these rumours, and preventing either undead armies from potentially harnessing the undeath present there.
Factions: Elder Circle, Order of the Silver Rose

The collapse of the Troll Hill pass and investigation into cultists in the High Moor
It has been chosen not to face the advancing line within the Troll Hills directly, the pass denoted in the Hell Riders report is planned to be collapsed to slow the advance of the dead. Investigation into the cult of the flies who are believed to be operating in the High Moor are to continue.
Factions: En Dharasha Everae, Hunters of Vengeance

Evacuation of Scornubel and hindrance of the Talonite advance.
Defending the wall-less city of Scornubel against the followers of Talona will be costly and will not hold without strong and immediate intervention. Given the proximity of the city to the Reaching Woods the displacement of as many civilian lives out of the city is our priority. Our tasks will be to that safe evacuation, and hindering the advance of the undeath where we can. The use of boats along the river Chointhar is advised.
Factions: Everwatch Knights, Lathanderites, Doron Amar, Nevermore, potentially Whistling Wanderess

Reclaiming Kheldrivver and establishment of a Trollclaw Ford fortification
Kheldrivver holds strategic value in the north, though we seek no immediate battles there at present the supplies within the hamlet will be of use in establishing a fortification on the Trollclaw Ford. The hamlet has been denoted of strategic value to the Dwarves of Kraak Helzak and would prove a strong forward hold for them should their home be the Undeath's destination. Cooperation with the Dwarves should be made with this.
Factions: Pheonix Company, Circle of the Song, potential reach to Kraak Helzak.

The purpose of the Liches and their march
The intentions of the followers of Talona are clear in the words of their heretical prophecy, however there is still uncertainty in the intentions of the Shadow King. It is believed it is in search of something. With the knowledge they had been seeking over the past months it is plausible this march is signal they know where it is they seek. Should members gain light on this immediate report to the other factions is called.

For the sanctity of the Coast,
Sveta Apseran
Head Watchknight of the Everwatch

OOC: As I said to each member in tells, set someone apart of you objective to make arrangements with the DM team.

[DM Golem]

Lich Vignette: Why I Fight

The image was perfect. The thin, blackened frames of burned out buildings, the layers of ash and charred matter which crunched underfoot, sending up little gouts of dust that marked the passage of the General’s armoured form, and those of his hyspaspist bodyguards. Ahead lay the Temple of Mystryl, a mere shell of soot-stained stone, gutted by fire. The fire had consumed most signs of the battle, but here and there the tarnished arms of the combatants could be seen. Each time the General saw one of the crude axes and cleavers of the orcs, the rage boiled in him once again.

The doors lay broken and warped, the heat having marred their beautiful, gilded form. The General held up his hand, bidding his retainers to wait outside, and stepped through the doorway. Little was left inside of the temple’s grandeur, the flames having scorched away the murals, and the claws of the orcs having snatched away the treasures. Yet still, the General saw far too much. He descended on one knee, his hand resting on a shattered, cloven skull, his eyes boring into the evidence of the massacre around him.

Here, where they had learned magic as children, and prayed to the goddess when adults, a great crowd of the people of Seventon had sought refuge from the wrath of the orcs. And here, while the General’s troops were away fighting on the borders, and while other soldiers gave way to panic and despair, here they had died.

It was then that the General’s hope died, and he understood what sacrifices he would have to make. His hand clutched the broken skull in rage, the shards of bone cutting into his pale flesh. It was here he made his promise. “Never again.”


The General’s gauntleted, bony hand closed around the gemstone, bringing the programmed illusion – the memory – to an end. This was all he had now, these enchanted images of the past, recorded when he still had all his senses, when he could still fear, still weep, and still feel. He had thought the memories would remind him of his purpose, and they did; staving off the madness that claimed so many who made the change. But each year they seemed more distant, more removed from him. Each year he felt the Netheril of old slip further away.

But my duty remains, despite it all. Orbedal will be protected.

The clatter of armoured boots was heard outside his tent. A hyspaspist stepped inside. Asmoniath. With me from the start. “My General. One of the captives was pure enough.”

“Bring him in.” The General eschewed the telepathic bond, so that the captive could overhear.

Let the man know his fate is in the balance.

Two more hyspaspists brought him in, shackled and chained. Trailing behind was the Logistician, Hieronaima, cradling his stave ready for the ritual to come. The captive thudded to his knees as bony hands forced him down. There was defiance in his gaze, but it wilted as he looked up to the General’s towering, armoured form, and the soulless swirl of his eyes.
“I’ll tell you nothing!” The man barked, voice shrill with fear.

“Incorrect.” Said the General, a bone hand reaching out to clasp his chin in a vice like grip, turning his head first left, and then right, as if examining a prize specimen. Then his eyes flared as he began to probe the man’s mind with magic, sifting through memories.

It was not a pleasant experience. The man – Godrin of the Hellriders of Elturel – squirmed, crying out in pain as the General moved beyond the surface, beyond the tactical data of recent days, beyond the quickest routes south towards the General’s objective. Such information was valuable but not why this man was chosen.

Instead, the General went deeper into the man’s psyche, looking through memories of a wife, a child, a sister, a mother, a father. He examined the man’s love of horses, and his joy at the freedom of being on horseback. He examined the man’s excessive gambling. He examined the mans dislike for a local mage in Elturel. He watched the man hurl curses at the mage. He watched the man befriend a half-elf tailor. Godrin was weeping by the time the General released him, no secrets left.

A base mind formed for simple pursuits. Tolerant of elves. His culture is not remotely Netherese, despite his watered down ancestry.

“Phalangite.” Said the General.

Hieronaima did not speak, she never did. ::A shame he was fit for nothing more:: Her voice echoed across their telepathic link as she raised her stave, a green glow appearing upon its end.

The General opened his palm and blasted Godrin with negative energy. He withered, his life drained, while Hieronaiman chanted the Soldier’s Binding. Imperfect Godrin may have been, but he would make the perfect footsoldier. He may have known nothing of Netheril in life; in death, he would protect its last vestige for eternity.

[DM Ditto]

Soldier's Vignette: Horrors

Breca paced the ramparts restlessly as the moon crawled laboriously overhead, her bow strung, eyes scanning the wide span of no-man's-land separating their worn and blackened walls from the thick grove of forest beyond. Though she appreciated the calm that settled after a few days of brutal skirmishes against the undead horde shambling at their walls, the knowledge that more - far more - lurked in the star-speckled gloom made the hairs on the back of her neck rise every so often.

If she strained her ears, she could swear that she heard the moans and clatters of the reanimated shambling far into the distance, sounds that seemed more and more real as the lull dragged on. Her hand spasmed on the bow, itching for something to nock an arrow and shoot just to break the tension of waiting.

"Everything quiet so far?"

Strung as tightly as her own bowstring, Breca jumped and turned to meet her superior officer's stern face, subconsciously noting that a few new wrinkles had appeared since their last meeting. Gerrard's hair was salt-and-pepper with more salt than pepper, and he bore the crow's feet, weathered skin, and sharp eyes of someone who remained standing no matter how much of a trouncing life gave him. Those eyes were now focused on Breca, clearly expecting an answer.

"No hostile contacts yet, sir," Breca replied, casting a glance at the battlefield littered with arrows and bodies, some more sunken and withered than others. "It's been a few days, though. I'd imagine the undead are about ready for another round."

Gerrard frowned. "Pray to the Morninglord it won't come soon. We could ill-afford another assault. The last report said the dead seemed to be passing by, but it seems that they don't mind going out of their way to bring our outpost down." He glanced down, wincing as an evening breeze carried the stink of old blood and rot towards them. Despite the darkness, the air before them seemed to writhe with nocturnal insects seeking to sup. "Have the scouts reported back yet? They're late."

Breca shook her head. "I haven't seen them arriving since I started my shift, sir. I'm beginning to wonder if-" she stopped abruptly and turned, squinting. "Wait. There's someone approaching." She drew an arrow, ready to nock.

"Dead or alive?"

"We'll see."

With that said, Breca and Gerrard remained silent and poised as the gloom-shrouded silhouette continued forging its way through the charnel-house of a clearing, clawing over dead bodies in its haste. Eventually, the figure came close enough for the two to identify a man very much alive, a look of sheer panic stark in his face.

"Oh, th-thank the g-gods!" The man wheezed as he stumbled up to the blackened gates. His fists banged repeatedly on the thick, unyielding wood. "P-Please, you've g-got to let me in! The d-dead are c-coming!"

"I've got a bad feeling about this," Gerrard muttered, then lifted his voice. "Soldier!" He barked. "State your name, rank, and your position here!"

Despite adrenaline and fright keeping the man shaking, he managed to straighten and perform his best salute given the tremors. "K-Kent Alderson, s-sir! P-Private! Sc-cout of th-the g-garrison here, s-sir!" His attempt at composure quickly broke down, and he resumed his frenzied attempts to beat his fists on the gates. "P-Please, for the love of Tyr, sir! Please let me in! I'm b-begging you!"

Gerrard and Breca exchanged glances. "The scouts that went missing?" The woman murmured, her face pinched in an effort to shut out Kent's desperate howls.

Gerrard nodded and squinted at the terrified man through the gloom. "How did you get back here? Where are the rest of your men?"

"I, I don't know!" Kent screamed. "Th-the undead came upon us! Too m-many to fight or run! They took us all, held us in a dark outpost they're using as their forward base. I heard some of their plans. They plan to attack by the coming dawn! Th-They took us to a lab of some sort, and they - they did things to us! I saw them - what they did to us -" he broke down into hysterical coughs and sobbing fits, and continued banging on the gates. "I left the others behind when I ran, but I don't care! I beg you, sir! Please let me in! You've got to! I don't want to die!"

"Shall we?" Breca looked towards the taut and pale Gerrard, and blinked when the man shook his head.

"He's probably rigged."

"Rigged?"

Gerrard sighed, the drawn-out sigh of defeat and overwhelming burden. "I wouldn't believe it myself if I hadn't seen it before. Lost another outpost that way some time ago. Our enemies out there..." he gestured towards the horizon. "They've found a way to do something to the prisoners they've captured and turn them into living explosives." His lips compress in anger, and his voice spoke volumes of disgust. "Then they arrange things so that the prisoners think they've escaped, and either naturally or by magic trickery, those prisoners head back to their home base as quickly as they can go and beg to be let in. Give enough time for them to be sent to the infirmary or somewhere sensitive, and..." He snaps his fingers. "Boom."

"Oh no," Breca breathed, blinking back tears of grief and outrage as she stares into Gerrard's grim gaze.

"Save your tears, Breca. He's already dead, but I won't let those undead bastards take any of us with him. Not this time." With that said, Gerrard lifted his voice, carrying his order in a bellow. "Private Alderson! Thank you for your report! For now, you are ordered to stand and hold position at least thirty yards from the gate until further notice!"

"NO!" Kent shrieked back, his voice breaking almost comically as his vocal cords struggled in vain to maintain the strenuous pitch. "Please let me in! Don't make me go! Please, for the love of Ilmater, have mercy!"

"Private!" Gerrard thundered. "Stand and hold position at least thirty yards from the gate, now, or you will be shot for disobeying a direct order!" He motioned towards Breca, who reluctantly nocked an arrow and pulled her bowstring taut, aiming at the panic-stricken man.

"You can't make me!" Kent howled. "I don't want to go back! LET ME IN!" He then flung himself at the gates, clawing for the desperate hope of salvation, before being very forcefully stopped with the sheer impact of a large feathered arrow that seemed to blossom from his shoulder. He gaped, seemingly dumbfounded, at the projectile, before staggering again, limbs flailing like a stringless puppet, as another arrow landed in his chest cavity. He stared up at the pitiless fortress looming before him, and the silhouettes of his murderers atop the walls, with the naked stare of one betrayed, and from his mouth issued an inarticulate wail of utter agony and despair. Nonetheless, he continued lurching towards the gates, shrieking mindlessly, forcing his dying body towards the illusory safety of what had once been his home until one final arrow whistled forth, pinning him down for good, his screams mercifully dwindling to choked gurgles as he flopped in his death throes like a suffocating fish.

Breca was weeping by the time she lowered her bow, her sobs unabated despite Gerrard enfolding the woman into his arms. "Get two of our men," Gerrard called towards another nearby guard, "and take Alderson out of here. Also, tell our strategist to start preparing for an undead assault at dawn. Make all haste."

The solemn-faced soldier nodded and left.

[LISA100595]

*Lady Elvina writes a letter to all the organizations involved in the Undead Horde attacks and seals it with the Order of the Silver Rose insignia, a shield with crossed swords and a silver rose overlay.*

Dear friends and allies,

I believe it is time to work together as a team and bring all of the pieces of this puzzle together. I cannot stress this enough... We need to come together and share the information we All have obtained, in a clear and concise manner. This is the One major disadvantage we have been suffering throughout this entire campaign. Without group cooperation we will surely fail.

Steps to Group Organization and Cooperation:

1. Create a Council of Knowledge - Gather copies of all the evidence each group has obtained .. tomes, artifacts, prophecies, visions, locations of past skirmishes... etc.

1A. Have copies sent to each of the assigned scholars proficient in Netherese lore and language for examination and analysis. (( Possible Sub-Forum everyone can post on. ))

My recommendations:
Council of Knowledge
Archmage Sir Cyrus of The Order of the Silver Rose
Guide Teo of Candlekeep
Archmage Kael of En Dharasha Everae
Maxwell of Kraak Helzak
an Elder Circle Druid has also been recommended.

* Any others I do not know proficient in and knowledgeable in this field. To take the full account of what we have amassed and look them over, either conferring with each other OR submitting their report to the entire group of the total evidence we have so far.

2. Creating a War Council - One or two representatives assigned from each group or faction, who guided by the Reports of the Council of Knowledge, locations of the attacks that have occurred and factual evidence presented, will come together to form an intelligent and informed Plan of Action.

Representatives of the War Council:
* Sir Seth Siger of the Order of the Silver Rose
* Terri Lalani (Administrator of Phoenix Company) - Pending.
* Arkaine HalfOrken, Grand Master of the Order of the Radiant Heart.
* Alsarias Lythar, Councilor of Doron Amar
* Eowiel, Councilor of Doron Amar
* Vendor Xon of the Elder Circle
* Koba, Sword Coast Commercial Exchange
* Charraj, Sword Coast Commercial Exchange
* Eleanor, Leader of the Hunters of Vengence
* (representative name)
* (representative name) etc.


3. The War Council to divide up the allied groups or factions, based on their experience and expertise, and assign each their appropriate tasks created by the War Council through their Plan of Action.

Please submit to me the Names your choice of representative for the War Council or any others proficient in Netherese Lore and Artifacts and I will add them to the Roster.

With group cooperation, open minds, thinking "outside the box" and by the grace of our gods we WILL prevail!

Sincerely,
Lady Elvina Aira-S'efarro
Knight Commander of the Order of the Silver Rose

(( PM's SENT. will be sent to the recipients of this letter as soon as I'm done making edits. If I forget anyone please let me know.

(( If possible, the DM's can make a sub-forum for the collection of Facts that the Council of Knowledge group can write their IC reports and each new piece of evidence can be added and advised on by them. The War Council can then, based on those IC reports, report on the main forum http://www.bgtscc.net/viewtopic.php?f=1 ... 43#p608443 the Plan of Action and which groups are assigned to which tasks.

This will make it easier for the DM's to see which groups are doing what AS well as easier for the players to know what's going on all in one place. This will also alleviate and accommodate for the time differences of all the players.

[Darkcloud777]

*Flyers are set along the coast to be seen by all individuals. The flyer bears the insignia of Phoenix Company*
To All the Hero's of the Realm,

We are conducting a mission to retake Keeldriver from the undead hoard. For such an undertaking I am calling on all able bodied hero's of the realm to step forward and volunteer. Please sign below if you are interested in participating.



Our job is to retake the keep and secure the supplies. Other factions willl handle other aspects. once I have a time and date established I will forward this to you

Signed,

Terri Lalani (Administrator of Phoenix Company)

OOC Send PM if you are interested in participating.

[LISA100595]

*Lady Elvina continues to add names to the roster as they come pouring in of the War Council as well as pledging one of the OSR Knights to the Aid of retaking Kheldriver under the lead of the Phoenix Company.*

Hidden: show

*Lady Elvina writes a letter to all the organizations involved in the Undead Horde attacks and seals it with the Order of the Silver Rose insignia, a shield with crossed swords and a silver rose overlay.*

Dear friends and allies,

I believe it is time to work together as a team and bring all of the pieces of this puzzle together. I cannot stress this enough... We need to come together and share the information we All have obtained, in a clear and concise manner. This is the One major disadvantage we have been suffering throughout this entire campaign. Without group cooperation we will surely fail.

Steps to Group Organization and Cooperation:

1. Create a Council of Knowledge - Gather copies of all the evidence each group has obtained .. tomes, artifacts, prophecies, visions, locations of past skirmishes... etc.

1A. Have copies sent to each of the assigned scholars proficient in Netherese lore and language for examination and analysis. (( Possible Sub-Forum everyone can post on. ))

My recommendations:
Archmage Sir Cyrus of The Order of the Silver Rose
Guide Teo of Candlekeep
Archmage Kael of En Dharasha Everae
Maxwell of Kraak Helzak

* Any others I do not know proficient in and knowledgeable in this field. To take the full account of what we have amassed and look them over, either conferring with each other OR submitting their report to the entire group of the total evidence we have so far.

2. Creating a War Council - One or two representatives assigned from each group or faction, who guided by the Reports of the Council of Knowledge, locations of the attacks that have occurred and factual evidence presented, will come together to form an intelligent and informed Plan of Action.

Representatives of the War Council:
* Sir Seth Siger of the Order of the Silver Rose
* Terri Lalani (Administrator of Phoenix Company) - Pending.
* Arkaine HalfOrken, Grand Master of the Order of the Radiant Heart.
* (representative name)
* (representative name) etc.


3. The War Council to divide up the allied groups or factions, based on their experience and expertise, and assign each their appropriate tasks created by the War Council through their Plan of Action.

Please submit to me the Names your choice of representative for the War Council or any others proficient in Netherese Lore and Artifacts and I will add them to the Roster.

With group cooperation, open minds, thinking "outside the box" and by the grace of our gods we WILL prevail!

Sincerely,
Lady Elvina Aira-S'efarro
Knight Commander of the Order of the Silver Rose

(( PM's SENT. will be sent to the recipients of this letter as soon as I'm done making edits. If I forget anyone please let me know.

(( If possible, the DM's can make a sub-forum for the collection of Facts that the Council of Knowledge group can write their IC reports and each new piece of evidence can be added and advised on by them. The War Council can then, based on those IC reports, report on the main forum http://www.bgtscc.net/viewtopic.php?f=1 ... 43#p608443 the Plan of Action and which groups are assigned to which tasks.

This will make it easier for the DM's to see which groups are doing what AS well as easier for the players to know what's going on all in one place. This will also alleviate and accommodate for the time differences of all the players.

[MopKnight]

Amongst the people of the Docks, word has begun to spread of the mopping woman moving from group to group, seeking expertise and work amongst those who are suffering under the yoke of the economy.

While she offers limited pay, she does offer food and board to those willing to undertake tasks related to the maintenance of an army camp. Those with past military expertise are sought above all others.

[LISA100595]

* Lady Elvina adds the names to the list as well as sending a short note back to Koba and Charraj that the OSR has begun compiling what supplies and necessities it can muster for Three Mobile Triage Units, very similar to the ones they had during the Amn/Gate War, getting them ready to go to the destinations agreed upon by the War Council. (not yet decided)*

Subject: 1351 Campaign - Act 2: Incoming Calamity from the North

A letter arrives bearing the seal of the Sword Coast Commercial Exchange. The letter requests Lady Elvina to add Koba and Charraj as the Exchange's representatives in the War Council. It further explains that while the Exchange may offer little in terms of strategy, it can help organize supply lines and secure financing, if necessary.

*Lady Elvina continues to add names to the roster as they come pouring in of the War Council as well as pledging one of the OSR Knights to the Aid of retaking Kheldriver under the lead of the Phoenix Company.*

Hidden: show

*Lady Elvina writes a letter to all the organizations involved in the Undead Horde attacks and seals it with the Order of the Silver Rose insignia, a shield with crossed swords and a silver rose overlay.*

Dear friends and allies,

I believe it is time to work together as a team and bring all of the pieces of this puzzle together. I cannot stress this enough... We need to come together and share the information we All have obtained, in a clear and concise manner. This is the One major disadvantage we have been suffering throughout this entire campaign. Without group cooperation we will surely fail.

Steps to Group Organization and Cooperation:

1. Create a Council of Knowledge - Gather copies of all the evidence each group has obtained .. tomes, artifacts, prophecies, visions, locations of past skirmishes... etc.

1A. Have copies sent to each of the assigned scholars proficient in Netherese lore and language for examination and analysis. (( Possible Sub-Forum everyone can post on. ))

My recommendations:
Archmage Sir Cyrus of The Order of the Silver Rose
Guide Teo of Candlekeep
Archmage Kael of En Dharasha Everae
Maxwell of Kraak Helzak

* Any others I do not know proficient in and knowledgeable in this field. To take the full account of what we have amassed and look them over, either conferring with each other OR submitting their report to the entire group of the total evidence we have so far.

2. Creating a War Council - One or two representatives assigned from each group or faction, who guided by the Reports of the Council of Knowledge, locations of the attacks that have occurred and factual evidence presented, will come together to form an intelligent and informed Plan of Action.

Representatives of the War Council:
* Sir Seth Siger of the Order of the Silver Rose
* Terri Lalani (Administrator of Phoenix Company) - Pending.
* Arkaine HalfOrken, Grand Master of the Order of the Radiant Heart.
* (representative name)
* (representative name) etc.


3. The War Council to divide up the allied groups or factions, based on their experience and expertise, and assign each their appropriate tasks created by the War Council through their Plan of Action.

Please submit to me the Names your choice of representative for the War Council or any others proficient in Netherese Lore and Artifacts and I will add them to the Roster.

With group cooperation, open minds, thinking "outside the box" and by the grace of our gods we WILL prevail!

Sincerely,
Lady Elvina Aira-S'efarro
Knight Commander of the Order of the Silver Rose

(( PM's SENT. will be sent to the recipients of this letter as soon as I'm done making edits. If I forget anyone please let me know.

(( If possible, the DM's can make a sub-forum for the collection of Facts that the Council of Knowledge group can write their IC reports and each new piece of evidence can be added and advised on by them. The War Council can then, based on those IC reports, report on the main forum http://www.bgtscc.net/viewtopic.php?f=1 ... 43#p608443 the Plan of Action and which groups are assigned to which tasks.

This will make it easier for the DM's to see which groups are doing what AS well as easier for the players to know what's going on all in one place. This will also alleviate and accommodate for the time differences of all the players.

[Darkcloud777]

*Flyers are set along the coast to be seen by all individuals. The flyer bears the insignia of Phoenix Company*
To All the Hero's of the Realm,

We are conducting a mission to retake Keeldriver from the undead hoard. For such an undertaking I am calling on all able bodied hero's of the realm to step forward and volunteer. Please sign below if you are interested in participating.



Our job is to retake the keep and secure the supplies. Other factions willl handle other aspects. once I have a time and date established I will forward this to you

Signed,

Terri Lalani (Administrator of Phoenix Company)

OOC Send PM if you are interested in participating.

*A Pheonix Company Agent would travel up and down the coast and add an attachment to the flyers*

The current plan as I understand it.

1. Organize a group and set a time to retake Kheldriver. (check)
///DM Golem has set a date and time of Saturday Aug 22 at 20:00 GMT
2. Establish a Base camp or way point somewhere along the ford. Clear this area and fortify it.

3. Continue on to Kheldriver and retake the fort and secure the supplies.

4. Hold the fort until the EDE and the dwarfs arrive to secure the fort and relieve us.

The Sword Coast Commercial Exchange has stepped forward and offered there support to this endeavor. I call again to all others singly and as groups for aide in this endeavor offering guards, scouts, archers, healers or supporting magicians.

We will organize our efforts in the Eastern farmlands across from the Radiant Heart Headquarters. If there are any questions or suggestions then I ask that you do so promptly as plans are already set in motion and last minute changes are always difficult to accomplish. Thank you all for your help. Let us fight today so our children can see a free tomorrow!
Signed,

Terri Lalani (Administrator of Phoenix Company)

///ooc section

DM Golem has set a date and time of Saturday Aug 22 at 20-00 GMT (3-00pm CST, 4-00 EST) Lets all meet at the Eastern farmlands across from the Radiant Heart headquarters
Quote from Archmage Kael.(invoker)
Quote:
The phoenix company should create a camp in troll claw ford. The camp you will create is the most important action for the operations in the north, and is contemporary with my doing in kheldrivver and the passes: none of us can do both.
Can that be added to the list of objectives?
Quote from Sveta Asperan
Quote:
17:32] [PiaMang] Sveta Asperan: [Talk] *she looks to Terri* Will the Pheonix Company, and Circle of the song be able to attempt to reclaim Kheldrivver and reclaiming these supplies? The Hellriders noted there was only minor contest to the city.

[DM Golem]

A report is circulated to those preparing for the Phoenix Company expedition, bearing the seal of the Hellriders. Beside it is the seal of the Flaming Fist.

Phoenix Company and the Kheldriver Expedition Forces

We have the authority of the Grand Dukes of Baldur’s Gate to reiterate the promises of aid last given when a move on Kheldrivver was first discussed. Namely the aid of the Hellriders and a reinforced company of the Flaming Fist. The Hellriders are expert scouts and skirmishing cavalry, but unsuited to heavy combat (current strength approximately 180. Current commander Captain Raman). The Flaming Fist are some of the finest heavy infantry in Faerun, best suited to heavy combat or the assault or defence of fortified positions (Strength of 150 with support from mages and engineers. Current commander Captain Bresco).

Tactical analysis and composite scouting reports from the Hellriders suggest the following comments on your plans:

Trollclaw Ford

This area is well known to be infested by large numbers of trolls, who aggressively assault every settlement built there. So far these trolls are unaffected by the advance of the undead and it can be expected they would vigorously assault any fortification built. A temporary camp would have to be well garrisoned and stocked for troll fighting.

The difficulty of fortifying a camp against the trolls alone should not be underestimated. For any camp to be worthwhile in battle in the near future it will have to be made of wood, although the existing Hamlet can be incorporated. Supplies of wood would have to be brought on site as there is nothing locally and someone with siege expertise would be best called upon to devise the fortifications. Establishing a camp will require a garrison beyond the one off effort to clear the area. The Flaming Fist could achieve all this with their engineers and soldiers, but would be unavailable for other duties.

Our tactical analysis suggests Kheldrivver would act as a better base for forays into the Troll Hills or defending the passage into the Trollclaws due to its prexisting stone fortifications, and that supply convoys might be better safeguarded by vigorous escorts. Convoy escort could be undertaken by the Hellriders or the Flaming Fist, but they would be unable to undertake other work while doing so. Convoy escort duty might be better fitted for less well trained troops. Nevertheless a camp at the Trollclaw Ford would protect from any flank advance down the Winding Water.

Kheldrivver's Current State

Hellrider patrols pass the ruin frequently and have even spent the night there from time to time. Most of the village is undamaged. There was some damage to the fortifications during the last undead assault. Repair will require stone and expert craftsmen, although temporary repairs can likely be effected by rubble and wood. The Flaming Fist would be of assistance in repairing Kheldrivver’s fortifications if required, but would need supplies of stone for high quality repairs, which would also take time.

The village is currently haunted by stray trolls and disorganised bands of undead, possibly left over from the last attack. Resistance is not likely to be heavy but any sweep will need to be thorough to catch all the undead. If repairs are planned a sweep will need to include the surrounding area, as the undead in the hinterlands tend to be drawn to activity in the ruin.

The supplies left in Kheldrivver are quite old now. Hellrider patrols have been subsisting on them when they visit the area. Current reports are that it is difficult to find anything that has not been spoiled or eaten by trolls.

Undead in the Troll Hills

The undead picket line previously reported by the Hellriders began to move three days ago. When the Hellriders began to scout the picket to monitor its movements, the patrols were attacked and driven off. One, however, failed to return, and is presumed wiped out. For some reason after this engagement the picket line stopped moving. It advanced a total of four miles before halting.

The Hellriders are able to keep a detailed knowledge of the movement of the undead picket line but only if they are not called away on other duties.

Queries on this report may be left at the Flaming Fist Headquarters.

Signed
Duke Eltan, Flaming Fist
General Scar, Flaming Fist
Captain Bresco, Flaming Fist
Captain Raman, Hellriders

[LISA100595]

*Lady Elvina Sends the report, written by Sir Clint, on the Gnome responsible for the plague to the Allied Forces for their review and concideration.*

Fluazifop Dippledop of the Hardly Floatsum is the name and the ship the Gnome you sent me to hunt, starting at the temple of Illmater they knew not about him but heard rumors about him at the temple of tyr, we went to Tyr's Temple in the Gate and talked to the high priest Eldric Sunlar there who told us about him

he was sick when he arrived the diseases was apparently was airborne they found out later, they burned his clothes and his belongings only returning to him a few swords and a suit of armor and he was released when cured

we then proceeded down to the docks with the name of the boat and talked to Harbor master Apprentice Ted to know if the ship was still docked or had left, it had about a hour ago after asking about records and such Ted mentioned we might be able to catch him in a fast switch he recommend the Sea Sprite and Captain Deudermont

After a quick stop at the Queen of the Sea's temple i rejoined the group talking to the captain and we enlisted his help in following the Hardly Floatsum we reached them with no trouble at all and after the agreement to parley we conversed and asked to board his ship after so doing he offered to show his pride and joy the Dekrakenator which looks like a Harpoon launching contraption which does work just didn't go to plan in this case and impaled the poor gnome on the deck we patched him up and asked him a few question about why he went there and who and what he touched

he went there because he's a treasure hunter, he never got near the crypt as there was activity outside of it surrounded by a city full of undead smelling of Cinder and Smoke he was able to mark the location of what we know is the warlocks crypt, and he was the soul survivor his crew were taken out swiftly by fireballs and magics.

he gave his original map to a lady that helped him run away from the wraiths

He stopped some ghost ship plaguing Ulgoths beard and nearly Single handly took out that ship

he seemed struggling to find a crew so i offered my assistance knowing Belladonna was looking for a ship i planned to contact her and see if that would help he's just a treasure hunter and his ship didn't look ready for sea combat at all i my opinion.

he's staying at the Blushing Mermaid awaiting my message of help i would suggest if someone wanted to approach him to be with one of us who met him first and listen to him he seems more attracted to honey than vinegar as the saying goes and he responded well to me

this is my report

[DM Libelula]

Amongst the people of the Docks, word has begun to spread of the mopping woman moving from group to group, seeking expertise and work amongst those who are suffering under the yoke of the economy.

While she offers limited pay, she does offer food and board to those willing to undertake tasks related to the maintenance of an army camp. Those with past military expertise are sought above all others.

As the word spreads a couple of sailors and dockers in dire straits pay heed to the mopping woman, ten able bodied but malnurished men seek her and present themselves at the Ilmateri temple. None have any military expertise nor are they disciplined, in the docks a fair number of men wait to see how things go for those first ten men.

[Darkcloud777]

*waking up in the Ilmater church infirmary she would have requested a report on the the current resources available of particular note to her was one section:

People of Kheldrivver and other refugees: Approximately 80 able bodied adults, untrained and unarmed.
Current Status: IDLE IN BALDUR'S GATE. No training received. No arms received. No orders for deployment received.

*Terri would order the company to supply them with arms and armor. She would then have a memo Drafted Asking for volunteers to train the People of Kheeldriver*

///I will ask a dm to remove the cost of 80 chain shirts and short-swords and assorted other crossbows with silver tipped bolts. Any who volunteer please quote this post and post below.

[Darkcloud777]

*flyers that may have fallen or been taken down are replaced to remind people to come to the farmlands East In two days time to Retake Kheeldriver from the Undead hoard*

/// date and time of Saturday Aug 22 at 20:00 GMT in the eastern farmlands