The gnoll attack occurs on the 23rd day of the 10th month of 788. Traditionally, war deescalates in the winter months, which are approaching. Ellic, and the other strategists, expect there to be a lull after the siege of Owt until spring.
Despite barking a lot about driving north, Akrak heads the advice of Ellic and the others and camps outside of Owt for the season. The Wugs advance slows, as they semi hibernate for the winter. The orcs continue their march into the forest to take a position not far from Cheadsolas. Owt recovers.