Warband Approaches

Breaking for the tree line, the group exits to the east. Just behind trees are the unmistakeable glow of torches. Turning to make their way back through the castle, they are surprised by two large wolves. Sneaking behind the party while they were focused on the approaching torches.

Most of the party attempts to head south around the side of the castle to make for the woods. Rounding the corner they come face-to-face with an advanced scouting party of 4 hobgoblins.

Lanislar speaks with the two beasts, attempting to determine their allegiance and clear their way. One wolf splits off, taking up a flanking position. Lansilar acting swiftly fires a crossbow at the flanking wolf. Dealing massive damage and critically wounding the beast.

Feeling surrounded the party readies for a fight.

A shout bellows from the edge of the tree line, "ENOUGH!"

Negotiations

A large hobgoblins astride a horse trots forward with 7 hobgoblins in tow. Two of them are holding ropes that connect to a large figure, with a cloth bag over it's head. The unmistakable form of a half-orc.

Bim thinking quickly cast prestidigitation behind the wolves, drawing upon the illusion of dancing lights, similar to torches, that might make the party appear larger than it is.

The hobgoblins struggling to see the weariness of the party, and having taken significant battle damage themselves, inquire about the state of King Grol and those inhabitants of the castle. The party quickly and sharply proclaim the demise of all inside.

Feelings of fear trickle amongst both groups. Sensing an opportunity to take claim over the castle, the hobgoblin agrees to let the party go free, choosing to avoid the conflict for the sake of his warriors who are already bloodied.

Fight for freedom

Keladark isn't satisfied with just being let go. The party proclaimed they wanted the release of the orc prisoner. The hobgoblin was reluctant to agree. Offering a trial of combat for one of the party, blood for blood. Unable to sense the state of the party, the hobgoblin quickly changed his mind, knowing that he might have better odds fighting the prisoner.

Cutting the orc free, they shoved him into the ground at the feet of the party. Thinking on her feet Jynryn quietly and quickly cast cure wounds in an attempt to give the orc an advantage. Having barely enough to complete the spell, the hobgoblin attacked.

Trading blows back and forth, the fight clanging of sword smashing into sword. The orc, gathering all his strength, knowing he might not survive another strike, lunged forward in a forceful stabbing motion. Spearing the hobgoblin in the torso, and running the blade deep into his abdomen. The hobgoblin collapsed to one knee. Raising a hand and admitting defeat. The orc was free.

Hasty Retreat

Gathering his belongings from the hobgoblins, the orc donned his armor and backpack. Sensing a missing item, the orc exacted revenge on the hobgoblin who attempted to deny him, the pearl that had come to him when he washed ashore after being attacked by pirates in the Sea of Storms. Acting swiftly he lurched his sword upwards cutting the hobgoblins hand clean off.

Frustrated with the night's events the lead hobgoblin, barked angrily at his men to stand down, and ushered the party to begone.

Wasting no time, the group departed south, traveling as much distance as they could in the early hours of the morning. Making for the triboar trail, the party found Lanislar's horse grazing closely to the edge of the tree line where they had entered the day before.

Learning little of the orc who introduced himself as Khan to the group. Making camp, and quickly succumbing to exhaustion, they all found sleep easier then most would have liked.

Hearty Breakfast

What little remained of the night went by uneventfully. Most of the party snoring to the late hours of the morning. After all were awake, Jynryn found some eggs in a pack. Making a well deserved eggs and potato hash for everyone to refill their empty stomachs.

As the party inquired about Gundren's urgency to make his way back to Phandalin to meet up with Sildar. Skepticism of Khan given his Orc heritage was palatable in the way Gundren looked at the half-orc. Maybe due to the legend of the Orc invasion that led to the vanishing from memory of Wave Echo Cave.

Waning or Power

Bralleros becoming more aware of the chaotic connection to the pact magic the powers his spellcasting ability. Curious, why he's being called to pursue Venomfang, and the reason it is costing him his spell casting abilities. Bralleros meditates with his journal, calling to Bane for more guidance.

After some time Bane's responds with an air of annoyance. Providing clarity to Bralleros's questions. Bane's mood after being disturbed for what he felt was trivial and expected to be discerned from the vague clues provided in prior interactions.

Manifesting in a meer instant, Bane kicks Bralleros square in the chest and sends him flying through the woods back into camp. Evaporating into thin air instantly after landing his strike. Bralleros is sure he must obey or lose the powers he committed his soul for.

A Way Forward

Discussion ensues the camp, as the players determine the best course of action. Leave Elowen to guid Gundren to Sildar in Phandalin, so the rest of the party can immediately head to Thundertree, or all head back to Phandalin together to regroup and plan their approach to Thundertree.