IC Story Thread: Ch.1, Ad.3 - Black Hand

load previous
May 10, 2025 1:07 pm
"Yes... Climbing to those ruins is out of the question. We can wait and observe some more, then best to approach from the path down there, the least threatening way."
OOC:
observing a little longer to see if we understand more about these people
May 12, 2025 11:14 pm
OOC:
Let me know if you have any specifics of what you're trying to discern, but racking my brain for what more I could give you and this was all that came to mind.
While you wait and watch a little longer, now and again you see a person produce the same press-printed parchment as you found on the Swordsman and as you found in the carriage house back in Dol Amroth. Individuals will seemingly occasionally take the document out, share it with another as if they're looking it over and converse over it, before putting it away safely again.
May 15, 2025 9:01 pm
"It appears these people are allies of Astalor -- they are carrying Shadow documents. Perhaps he is hiding in the ruins."
OOC:
Does Éothain see anyone wander away away from the settlement? He's looking for someone to ambush and question. Also, is anyone bringing food and water to the ruins?
Last edited May 15, 2025 9:02 pm
May 16, 2025 12:18 am
There's certainly no significant swathes of arable land for several thousand feet below in elevation, and any beast worth hunting is likely also migrated to lower heights by this time of year. Given that it looks like they have no intention of moving they must have food stores prepared.

But there is a nearby stream which they likely use for water, though it is beginning to freeze over. You haven't seen anyone go there yet. But if you had to guess, similar to what would happen in a village without a well in the Riddermark, they likely make one trip a day with a group to get all the water they need for that day. And if such a fortress ever persisted through a winter in its past, the structure above at least must have a source too.

Eothain's plan is plausible, but it could result in a struggle and risks creating a commotion, and of course would undermine any pretense of a peaceful approach.
OOC:
Not saying the last part to dissuade you, just communicating the risks so you can compare it to your other options.
May 16, 2025 6:30 pm
"Yes it looks like the same pamphlets, Eothain. However, we do still not know if these people are the servants if the Enemy or just being exposed to the Enemy's vile lies. Do we still have our copy of the pamphlet? Perhaps we can use it to gain their trust and disguise our true identity when we talk to them." Duinhir suggests
May 16, 2025 8:02 pm
OOC:
I went back and read, and the intent seemed to be that you guys left the swordsman with "only what small arms" he was smart enough to carry on himself. Then plus the crowbar which was ultimately given to him.

So I believe you guys have the document.
May 20, 2025 6:09 am
Éothain's breathing becomes more regular as observes the people below. "We could claim to be travelers from Gondor, seeking Astalor."
OOC:
Is the clothing of the people similar to that of the swordsman and the spearman?
May 20, 2025 7:39 am
Cirion turns their tricky predicament around in his head. There is no easy answer.

"Could we plead ignorance, and ask if they can read our pamphlet? If they are the Enemy's allies, they will seek new followers and might try to indoctrinate us. If they are not, we might be able to understand it and show that we are on their same side. Having their same document gives us an excuse to make contact, maybe."
May 20, 2025 2:55 pm
OOC:
Loving the deliberation.
rpgventurer says:
OOC:
Is the clothing of the people similar to that of the swordsman and the spearman?
OOC:
I mentioned this earlier, but you can't really tell the manner of dress of people as it is obscured by the heavy winter fur cloaks they wear, which themselves look new and of a style made in Western Gondor. Which you, and possibly they, had to travel through to get here.

You do not have permission to post in this thread.