The chronicle record
Session recap
The scent of damp earth mingled with the distant sounds of hobgoblins at work as we scouted south toward Phaendar. We had learned that the Rangers had retreated to a hidden fort, but despite Aubrin's training with the Chernasardo Rangers, the location of any ranger forts remained a mystery. Wren led us stealthily along the forest's edge, where we observed hobgoblins repairing a bridge and setting up a guard camp across the River. The red-and-black emblem of the hobgoblin mercenaries associated with Maltheum hung over Phaendar, a grim reminder of the Ramsgate massacre. The absence of Nirmathian or Molthuni flags suggested that the occupying force was entirely composed of hobgoblin mercenaries. Recognizing the discipline of the half-dozen hobgoblins at the bridge, we decided against a direct confrontation.
We retreated to explore the less-charted area between the River and the camp. Wren discovered fresh hobgoblin boot tracks, indicating that at least four patrol members had recently passed through. Gundugar speculated that the enemy was scouting the near side of the River but would not venture deeper into the forest until they secured a supply route, giving us a brief respite. Upon returning to camp, we were greeted by the aroma of cooking meat, and Mira announced dinner was ready. The refugees were recovering from their illness, though Edram had fallen ill. Jet's distribution of cooked deer meat lifted spirits, and we learned from the refugees that the locations of the Chernasardo Rangers were closely guarded secrets, even from Aubrin.
As the days passed, we engaged in camp activities, gathering firewood and food. Rain fell during the night, and while the sick began to recover, Mira exhibited symptoms of the same illness. Investigating the camp's waterskins, we discovered that the Shared Waterskin used by the Main Camp workers had been poorly maintained, likely causing the infections. We discarded the tainted waterskin and warned the camp against using spoiled gear. Seeking better food sources, we stumbled upon a beehive and collected honey before being chased off by the bees. Camp morale improved as livestock provided milk, and the sick refugees gradually returned to light duties. Aubrin called for someone to dig new latrines, and Edran volunteered. Later, Taidel discreetly led us to a watchpost where we discovered the body of a refugee, his head severed and taken away. We examined the corpse and determined he had been killed at the watchpost, likely by a neck wound before the mutilation.
Following a single humanoid booted track leading away from the camp, we pursued it through the forest. After several hours of tracking, we encountered a female hobgoblin applying liquid to a dagger. Wren initiated the confrontation with a ranged attack, while Gundugar launched a bomb from a distance. The hobgoblin retaliated with a smoke device, obscuring her from view. As we closed in, Arsène's shout disrupted her focus, allowing Wren to recognize her as a skilled skirmisher from the same force that had attacked Phaendar. The battle ensued, with Wren and Gundugar applying pressure while Bruneg engaged the hobgoblin directly. Arsène's timely intervention led to her defeat, and we discovered a Bounty Notice on her body, revealing the organized nature of the enemy hunting us. We returned to camp with the notice, prompting Aubrin to warn of the potential need for a more defensible position.
Aubrin suggested scouting a set of Caves she had previously avoided due to dangerous creatures, marking their location on our map. Back at camp, Gundugar contributed rations to the communal supply, and the refugees enjoyed a modest feast that evening, sharing stories and praising our efforts. After a restful night, we set out for the Caves, only to encounter fresh hobgoblin tracks along the way. Choosing to pursue the patrol, we ambushed a group of five hobgoblins, swiftly dispatching them and recovering valuable provisions and gear, including another Bounty Notice with names of enemy officers. Upon reaching the cave entrance, we found a narrow tunnel descending beneath tangled roots, preparing to explore further.