The Sleeping Giant Inn

Today was a singularly unpleasant one.
 
We began with a tedious strategy meeting at the Alderleaf estate. The stray goblin we picked up has taken unusually well to civilization, given his short time under tutelage on the subject. It seems I may have been mistaken about his potential, on several counts, as I shall soon detail. He does, however, have much to learn. While I was attempting to document some procedures for my upcoming arcane experiments, some of the others were teaching Maggot the proper use and function of spoons (and presumably other cutlery). Despite Petri's protests about decorum and concern with the goings on of others, I find I cannot muster much interest in such discussions.
 
Fortunately, we were soon interrupted. It seems at some point, the Matron of the house left, along with one of her sons. A band of Redbrands took this as an opportunity, and the Alderleafs (Alderleaves?) became hostages. I must confess, I never did understand such tactics. Their goal was to force us to leave, but not all members of the party were in any way tied to the Alderleafs, and would view this as no better or worse than any of the Redbrand's other activities in the town. Additionally, in Darnus Quillhand's "Philosophy of Competitions", he presents a compelling argument against taking hostages and for disregarding any such threats. If the hostage taking competitor slays their captive, the opposing competitor is likely to kill their opponent, as the threat staying his hand is now carried out. It is always the rational best choice to keep the hostages alive. Further, if any competitor capitulates to demands under such circumstances, not only are they bowing to non-credible threats, but they also invite further occurrences.
 
Disinclined towards negotiation or debate, Maggot sprang into action. He caught them off guard (clearly proving the bandits to be possessed of simple minds, unprepared for combat), and quickly dispatched two of them. With that, combat began. The combat itself went rather smoothly, with both hostages successfully recovered. Petri was quite a sight, wielding a breath attack against the foes. I'll admit, the notion that Petri could defend himself and contribute to combat was quite pleasing to me.
 
It was decided after that the time had come to confront the Redbrands at their outpost. They had posted men at the Sleeping Giant Inn, and we prepared our assault. I believe the plan to have been a sound one, but much to my disappointment, we were easily spotted immediately before springing it. Though I did not realize it at the time, the ease with which the bandit did so was the first and best clue we were not the only ones employing difficult to detect observers. The ensuing battle was much more intense. Petri was once more quite effective utilizing his new breath weapon, but was unfortunately targeted for this very thing not long after we began. Losing Petri twice within a tenday is an affront that even I cannot overlook. He was avenged swiftly.
 
With the conclusion of the battle, the proprietor was taken into custody for giving aid and comfort to the criminals. It is perhaps for the best I was too slow to execute her before this transpired. Though it would certainly have been more efficient, Petri insists this would have been a grave misstep. I left soon after to re-summon him, though my funds are quite depleted now. I simply cannot afford for this to continue, and have this decided Petri shall not participate in the assault on the Redbrand stronghold, which I believe will be conducted tomorrow morning.