by Matt » Wed Mar 15, 2006 1:14 pm
As the warband dashes for the nearest cottage, the archers cover them. Soren and the mules bring up the rear. With a glance, Ulauf shifts his fire to the orcs up in the rocks - neatly skewering one in the neck. Although the orc falls behind the rock, it certainly looks like a clean kill. Meanwhile, Laenvan, who would have kept shooting at those in the village, realizes they're running for cover and so he too shifts to the easier targets. His arrow strikes home in one orc's chest just as he was drawing his bow. He staggers. Erdrick alas, misses.
The orcs in the village, as they're retiring, do not shoot back. However, more have gotten into position in the rocks. Arrows fly all about the warband, one strikes the fleeing muletier in the back, killing him instantly. Another strikes one of the mules in the flank and this arrow lodges deep, causing the poor beast to stagger for a moment, and then keel over. Ulauf successfully dodges on arrow, and then a second. An arrow races for Igon who manages to block it with his shield, and another arrow finds Laenvan who dodges it. A last arrow strikes Soran's body, but he's past caring.
As the rest of the warband reaches the nearest hut - the two remaining mules are trotting towards the river - Erdrick heads for the hut, now only Ulauf and Laenvan providing cover. They too begin to back towards the hut, waiting for more arrows, but for the moment, the gargun have stopped shooting. Soon, all save Soren and the mules are safely under cover, the archers warily peering out the windows and all waiting for the next move.