OOC: Dryneth volunteered to pay for the mule IIRC, so I will assume you have the mule in tow for now and that Dryneth is tending to it. If you all can figure out a way to pay for the groom and/or man-at-arms, let me know. For now, I will advance the plot. Brachna, let me know what you wish to do with the mule (i.e. take it into the moathouse with you, tie it up outside, etc.).
Having bested the nasty amphibian squatters, you turn your attention to the greater edifice ahead. Before you lies a drawbridge in disrepair. It seems that once chains attached it to hinges built into the side of the fort, but they have since come off. Perhaps they were broken off and fell into the murky water below, or maybe they were plundered by some desperate thief. It appears that part of the drawbridge was at one time battered through, leaving its present condition dubious.
Beyond, one door is hanging open on one great hinge, the other is splintered and holed but still in position, wedged and shored closed from the inside.