Agrax finds the hyena particularly intelligent for it's kind, the average animals are pretty smart to begin with. Led by Elora, the party makes it's way through an eldritch forest filled with dangling moss, softly running streams, the occasional loud cry followed a sudden thrashing that you cannot see. It is startling, but Elora seems to pay the sounds no mind. The ride is boring, outside the sounds, but morning soon passes to noon, which transitions to late after noon and of course followed by dusk. Elora finds a likely clearing and said,

"Let's bed down here for the night. Standard watch of course, I'll take the midwatch through to dawn."

12 hours in the saddle is a long haul, even with frequent stops, and all of you are weary and soon fall asleep. Just like that, each of you awake fully refreshed and shocked at Elora who looks like she's ready for the next fey debutante ball.

"A girl has to look her best," she said spryly, with a loud giggle. "Besides, you all looked so tired, I felt bad. Time to ride now, though. I can feel the change in climate, so warm clothes will soon be needed." Gathering the reins from her horse, she leads to party on.

"Now, important stuff: as we go further north, we'll face greater hazards. Some things you just don't want to mess with, things even a ranger or wildling would not mess with. So, if I say stop, you stop. If I say go, you go. And if I say run, you better be putting foot to toe, because something bad is on our tales. Got it?"

Kal nodded immediately. This was Elora's quest now and she was obviously more knowledgeable. He rode along warily and said little except when they were stopped to rest and the chance to speak presented itself. He studied the countryside, hoping to learn more, perhaps learn something that would lend itself to his survival...

A day and a half brings you to the end of the forest into a scrub grasslands. Small copses of trees dot the landscape; you keep an eye on them as possible places to sleep or small redoubts where you can organize a hasty defence if need be.

Temperature midday is in the 60s. Nighttime gets as cold as high 30s. All of you are warm enough for the nonce, though pushing north might bring bitter winds this late in autumn.

As the evening falls, you note a small, red-orange glow flitting around off to the east, its movements similar to small, indiginous bats, perhaps a half mile away,


First climate roll: no penalties.

Kal regarded the lights. "Faeries?" he mused. Unless there was a compelling reason to investigate, he ignored them. There was much to do and he didn't want to take foolish risks along the way.

Elora glances in the direction of the light. "Firebats," she said. "Not much to be concerned with unless food is scarce, which is not the case. They can be territorial, but the distance indicates they'll leave us alone. As we set up the watch, let's make sure to keep an eye on them."

Please set the watch. Elora will take the final watch again, but there should be two other watches. Thanks.

Kal said, "I'll take the first and wake Agrax up in a few hours. Pious, you're in the barrel tomorrow night!" He watched Elora move about the camp, half wishing for some privacy and a couple hours of loveplay. He dismissed the notion, remembering that it can be very, very dangerous in these parts and one false move could spell disaster.

Elora proves herself to be a fine guide, with knowledge of tracking and cooking and most everything that has to do with outdoor living. No spoiled fey, she works hard, pointing out various suggestions as they set camp. Pointing to Agrax, she said, "Dig us a pit, luv," offering a light touch to the gnoll-bitch's arm.

Her smile is radiant as she watches the team work together, and when preparations are made, she suggests to Kalmus, "Be a dear and find us some wood, eh?"

As dusk falls fully, she settles next to Kalmus and murmurs, "Patience, luv. Next inn is a day away. We'll tear the place down with our loveplay!"

As she prepares the meal, she begins to tell a tale. "Mayhap some of you may have heard the tale of the witch of the wood; if so, don't spoil it for the others."

So saying, she begins the tale:

Part I

"Once a long time ago, before the years of Elle and Leanin, in the early years of the rise of humans, there was a plain young woman of homely guise. Desperately, she yearned for love, calling out to the Uncaring in her despair for a mate. Human gods are fickle; although they heard her laments, they ignored her. Soon she sunk into a deep malaise and surrendering to her unhappiness, she made her way to the deep forest where the fey lived. She knew the grounds at the edge of the wood, but resolving herself to death, she walked with her chin up in defiance and anger for her lot in life.

It was a long trek, some six hours walk, and as she wearied, she realized that she was completely lost. Pushing through the twined brambles and branches, she came upon a small glade. It seemed at first glance a peaceful place, but as she crept into the surrounds, she found a hint of trepidation. With each step, her fear mounted until she could barely move forward. Once in the center of the clearing, she halted and could go no further.

A long while she waited, until darkness settled over the glade. Weary, she sat on the ground, leaning against an old, worn standing stone from the edge of time. As she sat, her eyes drew closed until she fell asleep.

In the deepest part of the night, as she lay against the stone, a figure of cloven hoof strode into the glade. Seeing the young woman sleeping, he wondered at her presence. Pulling his pipes from his satchel, he began to play.

Called from the depths of sleep, the woman woke. She blinked her eyes as she looked about; eventually she saw the creature hiding behind the stone.

"Who are you?" she asked.

"I am all and nothing," he replied.

It hardly made sense to her, but the creature smiled and began playing his pipes again until she stood from the ground and drew near him. Gone was the earlier fear. Entranced she listened closely. For a long time, he played thus, and in his song were whispers and callings that fed her dream of love.

Soon, filled with his fey song, she disrobed and opened herself to his ministrations. No gentle wooing, he ravished her, fulfilling her many times until at last both were spent upon the ground.

"Why are you here," he asked, breathing heavily.

"I seek love and beauty," she replied.

"Was my love not enough?" he asked.

"Oh, but you are ugly and deformed. I wish a man of strong hands and great wealth. Failing that, I would rather die than live with this homely mien."

"And what will you give me if I give you what you seek?"

"I would give you whatever you asked for," she replied.

"Say it three times," he said to her.

"I would give you whatever you asked for.
"I would give you whatever you asked for.
"I would give you whatever you asked for.

Part 2 forthcoming: Elora sips some honeysuckle, and sighs. "A pause for now. I hope you like my little story so far. Very scary!"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:02, Tue 11 Feb 2020.

Part Two:

Part 2
Suddenly a dark cloud filled the clearing and a great wind stirred the forest. The cloven hoofed figure rose like a monster from lore and his voice echoed the surrounds. "So shall it be," he cried out to the night, for night was his domain and it welcomed him.

Then he brought forth a looking glass and showed the young woman her new guise and he asked, "Are you satisfied?"

Quietly she was indeed satisfied, but she said, "I will only be satisfied once I find the man I am seeking."

The cloven hoofed being answered, "Go then back to your village and stop into the blacksmith's shop. Take him on his anvil, then allow him to take you as many times as he pleases."

"What of his wife and his son?" she asked.

The being passed her a kris set with many vile runes. "You must kill them, for if you do not the woman will speak against you to the town elders and they will try to slay you. This blade will leave no marks, so that you will not be discovered."

Caring only for herself, the woman followed the cloven hoof's advice. As she departed the clearing, a way opened to her leading directly to the blacksmith's shop. She lay with him per her patron's advice, then allowed him to take her time and again on the floor of the forge. Sweat stained and exhausted, the smith fell into a swoon. Sensing her opportunity, the woman stole through the blacksmith's house and slayed both mother and child. Satisfied with her work, she left the house and made her way back to the old shack that once was her home and was now again.

The place had fallen into disrepair, so she called on the blacksmith many times to assist her with fixing the place up. Of course, he was smitten with her; nearly forgotten were his wife and child. And many gifts he gave her that once were given to his wife. And other things he constructed, beautiful and flawless so that she covered him with her body and pleased him until he was drained.

But the townsfolk didn't forget. They pressed their suits against the smith and called down curses upon his head for being faithless to the memory of wife and child. The man lost business. Worse, the fortune he'd gathered was gone, along with his customers.

When the elders and townfolk had gone, his lady came to him and found him in the forge and she made ready to please him, but he pushed her away.

"My love! Why do you push me away. Always I've given you satisfaction. What is this maladiction you have cast upon me?"

"Oh ye bane of my existance. I see your cruel ways now. I've sown a bad seed, proved faithless to my wife and get, and now find myself a pauper and a fool."

"Ah, but not a bad seed," she replied. "I am with child, my love."

But the blacksmith was unswayed, and he cursed her and her child, calling the seed a bastard and renouncing his inheritance. And then he fled from her, back to the village and begged forgiveness from the townsfolk and elders saying, "That woman put a spell on me!"

Hearing the ruckus, the woman fled again to the forest until, out of breath and failing she cried out to her benefactor. "You have played me false, you wicked thing. Gone is love to my lover's guilt, gone are my looks to a rounded belly and sagging tits and gone are my jewels and trinkets to the townsfolk as penance."

Then a familiar voice replied. "I gave you all you asked for," said the cloven hoofed beast. "I gave you beauty. I gave you love and I gave you a child."

"Then I ask for one more boon," and she whispered it to the beast and he said, "This final wish I will give you."

Part Three: the finale forthcoming

For two decades the blacksmith prospered. He never remarried, but was a paragon of virtue. His reputation was rehabilitated, his business prosperous and when someone was in need, he was always available to lend a helping hand.

Thus it was that a stranger came into town, a young man of perhaps 20 years. He took up residence in the town's inn, and made a great show of introducing himself to all the townsfolk. He had a warm smile, but hard eyes that made some nervous, and favored the fairest of the townsfolks daughters. In the first three month, he impregnated three women, their reputations ruined. The elders whispered of a dark seed, and sought the blacksmith and asked him what he thought of the young man.

"Somethin' ill there, sirs," was all he said before turning back to his forge. The elders were unhappy with his answer, but they left him to his craft. He worked well into the night, then, a lantern in one hand and his hammer in the other, he walked into the forest
--------------------------------------
"Hello father," said a soft, crooning voice.

"You are no son of mine," said the blacksmith, holding his lantern up to see the man.

"Mother begged to differ," he said. "She begged long and loud until the screams ran raw and the blood streamed from her womb. And then she died."

"Her fate was unkind, but she deserved it. I know she murdered my wife and child, ruined my reputation, stole my treasures. Guilt is all I know now, guilt and penance for forsaking my family."

"It need not be guilt and penance. That's why I came here. I am your family, now," the young man said.

"You are not my family. I renounced you, having recognized your mother's twisted soul. I know you, Liar. You are a fiend from the pit, a shadow from an ancient time. You do not belong here. Go back to the depths where you belong, else I shall slay you!"

The young man laughed, a snarling, rasping sound and replied, "You could no more slay me as turn back the hands of time. You are a fool, old man!"

So saying, the young man leapt, but the blacksmith was ready. With a sweeping swing, he landed a forceful blow. The young man broke into a thousand shards. They formed into a flight of crows that flew off cackling into the night.

Epilogue:

The young man was never seen from again in the little village. The blacksmith lived but a few more years and died peacefully in his sleep. The three young women that lost their maidenhood to the man with hard eyes went to term. The first gave birth to a girl with a birthmark on her cheek. The second gave birth to a boy with a cleft palette. The third gave birth to a still born with feet like cloven hoofs. Each of them were shunned by the townsfolk and eventually they left the small village.

As for the village itself, it fell into slow decay. The elders all died and the young folk, sensing the prevailing darkness that fell over the place, moved to other locales. It is said that there are still ruins to be seen: the Church, the forge and the witch's small cottage. Few visit however, as the place is rumored to be cursed.

The end.

"Did you like it?" Elora asked with a wide smile. "Spooky, no? It was one of my fav's as a little girl - Gran used to tell it during the blackest midnights with but a small lant to see by. Of course, honeysuckle and cinnamon flavored the mead that we shared. It is a fond memory!"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:44, Thu 13 Feb 2020.

After the spooky story, the party settles down, watches are stood with no resultant encounters besides Pious' snoring.

The next day dawns brisk and bright. A winter wind cuts through the party like a scythe at times, despite the sun shining bright overhead. Still it's a mostly pleasant journey as Elora keeps telling stories to make the time go by. Soon enough, morning shifts to afternoon, followed by a swift dusk. A small, crossroads inn greets you with warm light and atop the roof sits a sign that says "The Sweet & Salty."

Elora looks at the sign with a slightly mocking grin, but says, "Shall we?"

"That was one scary story. A changeling. You hear that stuff but you never think it real. Why would those of the underworld even want to produce such a thing?" Kal shuddered and bade everyone goodnight, rolled into his blankets until time for his watch.

The next day: " 'Sweet and Salty'? Wonder what the food's like? Do you know this place, Elora?"

"Not as good as mine," Elora replied with a hauty sniff. "Still, decent fare, and cheaper than mine. And, admittedly, the owners are nice folks, though the keep's wife keeps a sharp eye out when I'm around."

Entering, you find the place a bit rustic, though nice and lovingly maintained. A balding, fat man stands behind the bar with a younger man and a young woman serving drinks.

"Hiya, Tally," Elora called out. When the man looks up, she tosses him a platinum and says, "Drinks and a room for me and my companions." Then she pulls up to the nearest unused table and takes a seat.

A short time later, Tally comes around the bar and places a series of goblets and steins around the table, seemingly knowing exactly what each of you wants without asking. There's nary a complaint as all of you takes a sip; even Elora smiles her delight after savoring her wine. Nodding happily, she said, "Well done, Master Tally."

He grins widely, blushes a bit at the praise. For her part, Elora pulls a small slip of parchment from her pouch and said, "See how you like this."  Tally's eyes go wide with good humor, then he dashes toward the kitchen, calling out, "Minerva!" as he goes.

Elora chuckles. "An old recipe of mine," she replied. "I pass them onto him and he passes them onto her. It's a small kindness I occasionally do for folk that I like."

A few moments later, Minerva comes out and says, "Yer coin's no good 'ere, Lady. The recipe itself is enough payment. Many thanks and blessing to you." She bows before retreating back into the kitchen. From his post at the bar Tally offers a nod and a wink.

In return for the couple's kindness, Elora plays a round of songs. By the end of the night everyone is sated, and weary and ready for bed - the next morning Tally finds one lone platinum sitting upon their table.

Let me know if you have anything you would like to do or purchase - there's an old fashioned shop attached to the back of the inn where all manner of goods are stored.

Kal takes a moment to rummage the shop....

ooc: forgive me, still pretty wiped out though have a couple days off, thankfully.

The shop has your standard fare PHB equipment for 10% higher prices (given the lack of competition). If it is in the PHB, you can buy it.

After a night of rest, the party seems eager to push along. A couple of notable things: first, the hyena that Agrax is riding becomes beligerent as the weather turns colder. Despite it's fur, it becomes obvious that the beast is uncomfortable.

"What's wrong with your mount?" Elora asks.

"She doesn't like the cold," "Agrax replied with a shrug.

"Well, I don't know why, I find it quite enervating."

"I don't know what that means," Agrax said.

"Nevermind," Elora said. "What are we going to do about your beast?"

Agrax shrugged. "Nothing to do. She'll become feisty the further north we go, to the point where she'll get violent. Rather than deal with that, I'm just going to let her go."

"You'll slow us down," Elora said, but Agrax barked a laugh. "No, Lady, I assuredly will not."

The beast is freed, and lopes southward following the party's backtrail. Agrax takes up point, moves silently through the trees. In short order, they are making good time. The climate, however, is growing more intemperate, with dark clouds overhead hinting at rain, or perhaps even snow. You pull your weather gear out and push northward, continuing toward the snowy wastes.

Your winter gear proves its worth as a sudden winter squall falls upon you just outside of the wastes. Timing is fortuitous; there is a crossroads inn that notes the border of the wastes. The door slams open at your push. At the wind's howl you push the door closed, earning a scowl from the innkeep. Rail thin, he has a surly look about him. He nods to one of the servers, a youngish girl with a wary eye, as you find a table near the hearth. The place isn't full, nor is it empty; several small groups along with individual patrons look up at your approach.

There is little of cheer about the place.

Thoughts, ideas, actions?

ooc: think I've ridden the inn meme about as much as I can...

ooc: I have a character that would rarely wish to be found elsewhere...

Kal took in the surly mood of the place and accepted that this bunch was going to be very little fun. He went to the bar and asked the keeper about supper and drinks...

"One norther for the lot of you for food. Drinks are extra," the barkeep said without introduction or preamble. "You're southern folk: a norther is one gold. Drink prices are separate."

Despite his surly demeanor, the place is clean and well kept, the bar shines with oil and the taps don't leak. And the aroma from the kitchen smells really good.

Kal nodded and produced 2 northers. "Smells good. Glad of that, we are pretty hungry."

The man nods his head; a short while later he and one of the serving girls arrive with a platter full of food and drink. The girl departs after dropping off the drinks, but the man stares intently at you all as you take your first taste of the food."

"Well?" he demanded. "As good as southern fare?"

"Different but well worth the coin. I thank you as does my empty belly!" Kal grinned as he said this, then dropped to a lower tone, "Friend Innkeep, what can you tell us about the area? I fear we'll ill prepared for the trip outside warm clothing, any information you can lend us is most appreciated."

The innkeep mulls the question over in his mind.

"Depending how far north you're going, beware the witches. Each village has their own leader, called 'Beldame', and she usually surrounds herself with young apprentices, anywhere from 2-20, depending on the size of the settlement. If you are headed that way, she is the first person you will wish to speak to - most Beldame are prickly in their pride.

"The men of the north spend most of their time visiting other villages - ostensibly they're out hunting, but many of them keep lovers in the surrounds. Familiarity breeds contempt, as the old saying goes, and it keeps the bloodlines clean. The Beldame's know the game; they are quite content to let the men roam, in return, the men pay them a modicum of respect.

"Strangers are tolerated if they bring news and perhaps entertainment, and if a young lass grows gravid a few months after a visit from some famous bard, well, that just adds a bit of spice to the tales told in the heart of winter...along with another young'in to hopefully grow up strong to add to the coven, or to wander in search of food for the clan.

"As for fauna unique to the area, beware the snow lizards. They grow to 15' in length, and can camoflage themselves to appear near invisible against a winter backdrop. The Cold Women are a strange, pudding-like creature that also blend into the surrounds. Tales tell of men and women being wrapped up in their embrace, an ecstatic smile upon their faces as they melt away. Rumor has it that the powers of the victims are then transferred to the Cold Woman - I'm not sure of the truth of that, though harrowing tales of groups of them working together have been told. And let's not forget the frost giants who periodically come down from arctic keeps to raid the villages.

"There are other critters as well, more normal: snow leopards and giant lynx, winter wolves and remoraz. It is a perilous place, sir, so be wary where you step!"

"Truly, you are a font of information! I appreciate all this. Not to impose further but what is a 'remoraz'? My life is filled with deadly and delicious women but I've not heard of that creature. Mind expanding my knowledge?"

The barkeep warms to his audience:

"I didn't get your name, friend. Folks around here call me Edgar, or Eddy for short. As to your question, I've a fascination for the obscure, and try to learn about things as much as I can. The beast you talk of in question is like a giant centipede, some 20-25' long, with a built in furnace in its gut to protect it from the cold. They burrow, and attack from surprise with steel-like mandibles and great, black eyes. 'Tis said they push up through the snow, and then decend again with their prey. Ambush predator, I think they're called."

Someone hollers for another round. Edgar looks over at one of the waitresses and nods with a scowl, then turns his smile back toward the table and says, "If you've anymore questions, I'll be happy to answer. Let me know."

He scoots away to take care of business while you mull over the conversation.

"He's a regular font of information," Elora said with a smirk.

"I'm glad you didn't speak to him, he would have given you his inn and stayed on to run it for free!" Kal grinned at Elora and drank in anew her beauty. "Still, I'd like to know more about this ah... witch-ocracy they have here, sounds like it would be possible to exploit for our purposes. Thoughts?"

Elora frowns in thought, the tip of her tongue caught delightfully between her teeth as she considers the question.

"I think there is peril there," she said at last. "But peril ofttimes begets opportunity. And you have a specific goal. That said, I don't think you'll waltz in there and out again with your goal met. I am certain such folk as the witches will be keeping a keen eye on us."

"Agreed. Brains and beauty in abundance, where have you been all my life?

"We need a plan. Thoughts, anyone?"

Elora's mien took on a solemn cast. She touched your arm gently and replied, "I have been waiting for you, luv."

As you settle in, you quietly enjoy a good meal. Once dinner is finished, Eddy comes out and passes around small slices of lemon flavored cake that is quite delicious.

"A complementary desert, madam," he said to Elora and the entirety of the group. With a diffident air, however, he added, "I would not presume, and surely you are under no obligation, but your reputation is singular, and I would be pleased if you honored my humble little inn with a song or two."

Elora laughed, a fey sound, and replied, "Your food is exemplary, the libations perfect, and the dessert most excellent, but modesty does not fit you well, sir. I would be happy to play for you and your guests. It is, after all, what I do."

Standing in the center of the floor, she pulled a hand-held harp from her bag and strummed a cord. The sound was exquisite, a perfect note, and she sighed in satisfaction. Then, in the language of the fay that but few of the patrons understood - for there were a few of the elfin in attendance - she sang a lay of the fall of old Melyrigard the fair. Twenty minutes of song, with attendant peaceful notes to start, then discordant, sometimes jarring notes as tension rose, until a last series of notes rendered so jarring and of breathtaking loss that not a dry eye was left in the house. The finale lingered like a lost lover's touch, and as it faded, only silence remained in the house. Turning her head down in sadness, she made her way back to their table.

After a long pause, Eddy stood and shouted, "Bravo! Bravo madam! Surely you are a paragon of your craft, and I but a poor listener. I will tell everyone of your song tonight - it was an honor just to hear it told in your native tongue. Truly, I am humbled!"

Tears dropped down the man's face as he told her such, before disappearing into the kitchen to comport himself.

A few moments later, two elfs in attendance approached. The elder, his white hair adorned with a gold clasp, said, "You are a virtuoso, madam. Would that I could stay and listen all eve, but my son and I must depart. But I will remember this performance all the days of my life, and count it as a singular honor to have heard it. Even now, my heart sighs for fallen Melyrigard. I wish..." He stops, shakes his head sadly and concludes, "No wish will bring the city back. That hope is gone. But thank you for a reminder of what once was."

Elora nodded, her eyes bright with her own tears as she replied, "Ela'inali bin eli. Peace to you on your journey."

As the two elfs left, she lapsed into a long silence. Finally, Eddy reappeared and said, "Lady, your rooms are no charge. I insist. Folk will be telling tales of your performance for the next six-month. Please just accept my thanks."

As Brother Pious and Agrax settled into their rooms, Kalmus and Elora got comfortable in their's. Elora was quiet, the luster of tears still residing in her eyes.

Kal said nothing but held Elora as long as she wanted. Tonight he'd gone from smitten to hopeless in the span of one heart-rending song.

ooc: and that was some superior writing! I've read worse in the past year or so! I mean in paperbacks, not here. Thanks!

OOC - that is kind of you. I enjoy this medium, it allows me to stretch my writing bug.

A night passes and you feel a poke in your ribs. Elora, looking resplendent in her form fitting winter attire says, "Get up sleepy, the sun is almost here and we've miles yet to ride."


ooc: a quick break - you have on last chance to purchase goods, +20% all costs. The Northern Wastes are the next step, two days out as per your lovely bard.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:54, Fri 20 Mar 2020.

"You did say 'almost', yes?" Kal pulled her down and into his embrace, kissing her passionately. "That's for the haunting song last night. I will never forget but I will forget it before I forget you."

Momentarily surprised by Kalmus' sudden ardor, Elora gets a hungry look in her eyes. In moments clothing is doffed and thrown to the floor. Wrapping her legs around his waist, she squeezes tight and pulls him close. Panting turns to moans, turns to muffled screams as she bites down on his neck. Soon both are moving in desperate rhythm until each is spent, her first, followed shortly thereafter by him (because he is a gentleman, of course).

Breathless, both take long moments to gather themselves before rushing to make ready for their journey. By the the time they're finished donning their garb, the sun is well up. As they exit the inn, Pious raises an eyebrow as Agrax offers a yip of humor.

The first day of travel is bright, though as you head north the temperature drops. You find yourselves happy to have warm weather gear, though your eyes water beneath the assault of the wind. As dusk falls you find no inn to harbor you - you'll need to find a place to bed down.

Agrax and Pious gather wood for a campfire as you help Elora construct a semi-circular shelter made of pine bark and broken limbs. The watch is set: Pious then Agrax, followed by Kalmus then Elora.

The first three watches go by without incident; the fourth, Elora's, however, does not.

Poking Kalmus, who had just fallen asleep, she whispers loudly, "Something's out there!"

Fully awake in but moments, you indeed hear a gutteral roar coming from somewhere to the left of your shelter.

Kal drew his blade and prepared for battle! He looked out into the gloom to see if he could find the source of the noise.

"Should we wake the others?" she asks, though Agrax is already awake and alert, her halbard at hand. Pious, on the other hand...

"Yes, wake Pious but be careful, there could be others, this may be but a distraction." Kal remained ready should something present itself in the gloom.

Snow begins to fall, further obscuring your sight from the thus far unidentified menace. You do know the sound grows louder - it is a fierce growl, deep and gutteral, and everyone grips their weapons a bit tighter as the thing draws closer.

Suddenly, Elora opens her hand and a small dot of light ascends toward the heavens. Reaching it's apex, it explodes and covers the surrounds in a wide swath of light. Some fifty yards away is a huge, bipedal form, probably eight feet tall and some 400lbs. Caught in the open, it snarls in anger and charges toward the party.

Roll initiative, please!

19:24, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 4 using 1d6 ((4)).

ooc: Unadjusted, have to admit, don't recall how you handle init.

Initiateive as follows:

Elora: 9
Kalmus 6
Agrax: 5
Pious: 4

Big baddie: 2

ooc: DM note, if you think one of the NPC's should do a certain action, that's fine - good coordination is integrel to good parties. I'm happy to roll the bones, just tell me what you want them to do. That includes Elora, though she may or may not listen to your suggestions.

Battle is on!
Elora fires three magic missiles at the beastie, who screams his rage. 9pts damage to the bad guy.

Kalmus is up next

Kal rushed forward and slashed at the thing with his longsword (specialized)

16:07, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 7 using 1d12+3.

16:07, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 17 using 1d20+1.

?: is it one attack first round, 2 the second for specialization or vice versa in your opinion?

My understanding is 1 attack odd numbers, 2 attacks even. Your attack hits, by the way.

ooc: Nice! That's the way I do things as well... W

Attacks by Elora and Kalmus strike true, causing the beast to growl in outrage. Agrax and Pious take their turns to no avail. Pious being the nearer victim, is lined up for two strikes from the beast, but the priest's armor proves mightier than the claw/claw tandem.

Elora, perceiving their numbers, surrounds the beast with Faerie Fire. "Follow the outline!" she calls out to the others.

+2 to hit the monster

18:04, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 6 using 1d12+3.

18:04, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 14 using 1d20+1. (16 actually, forgot to add the 2)

and a 3 misses even with the 2 I'm guessing...

Kalmus hits on his first attack, a sturdy strike that causes the beast to rear back in pain. Pious & Agrax are again feeble in their attacks despite Elora's best efforts. The beast retaliates in strong fashion: Kalmus takes 6 points of claw damage, though the second strike misses as Kalmus dances away from further danger.

For her part, Elora drops a bit of sand in effort to cast a sleep spell, but the monster seems unaffected.

Kalmus is up!

Kal stepped in and swung hard!

09:17, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 6 using 1d12+3.  damage.

09:16, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 21 using 1d20+3.  roll plus faerie fire bonus.

The intrepid adventurer steps forward and swings his mighty sword to great affect, opening a gash at the nexus between neck and shoulder. Blood gushes from the beast. It staggers meekly from the mortal wound before falling face down some two feet from the fire.

As mentioned, it was a large beast, but new details come into play: what seemed yellow fur is actually white, and great, sharp claws adorn the beast's hands. Closer inspection indicates and older beast, a lone bachelor of sorts, out foraging on its own. A rudimentary pack crosses from the other shoulder over it's chest.

ooc: nifty little scrap to get the blood flowing. Actions?

Kal stared at the creature. "It has a pack? Was this an intelligent beast?" He hoped someone knew the thing and the habits of these sort of critters. He'll also search the pack to see if the thing had anything worth keeping.

ooc: at first read, I thought this was an ogre! Suspect it's a yeti but that's just me, not Kal...

Further inspection indicates that the fur is more than rudimentary, it's very thick, leading Kalmus to believe that the fur is an effective insulator. The beast is bipedal, stands/walks upright, seemed to have some intelligence, though really you hypothesize that it's more brawn than brains.

Your initial search of the beast's pack indicates a heavy load. Unfurling the pack leads to a discovery of some 500 gold and 6 gems of similar size and color (emeralds). Elora, female, notes immediately, "Ooh, pretty stones!"

500g + 6 emeralds of fine cut worth 250g apiece.

Nice haul for a yeti rogue. Dice roller was kind today: I rolled a 2% on the emeralds.

The party is pretty keyed up. Sleep is now out of the question, so the party breaks camp early and continues the journey north as the first vestiges of dawn break the horizon. Thick stands of pine break up the monotony of the journey; for her part, Elora studies the gems like a jeweler in Lahnkmar. Eventually she tires of them and hands them back to her beau.

ooc: another post coming today/tomorrow.

The final leg of of the journey is long and hard. Four and a half days have passed, and still no sign of civilization. Even worse, the cold clime has turned hard. Each of you shiver despite the foul weather gear you possess. Occasionally Elora fixes each of you up with a warmth cantrip...but that only serves to make the cold even colder when the affect wears off.

An early night falls; Pious and Agrax start to argue whether to continue on or make camp. Agrax wants to keep moving, Pious wants to stop. Their arguing grows heated, to the point where they are near blows.

Actions?

Kal said, "How far to the village? If we're not close, let's stop and set up camp, see if we can warm up but, if we are close, let's press on and see if we can find some real shelter for the night."

To the best of your knowledge, you should be very close to your destination. However, as of yet, you haven't found any settlements, though there are indications that civilization, such as it is in the north, is near.

Agrax makes that point once again to Kalmus. "It would be foolish for us to stop now," she said in ill temper. "Much better to push on than freeze in the long, dark night."

Pious, who's been mostly quiet during the journey, reiterates, "It's dark, Kalmus. And cold. Let's set a fire, set the order of watches, then, come the dawn, we'll have light to guide our way."

ooc: command decision - both make good points - whatcha wanna do?

Kal nodded, "You're both right. Agrax, I'd love to just push on, but in the dark without knowing where this town is, could make us ripe for ambush. Do you smell smoke or anything that tells you a town is near? If not: How about this? Let's push on half an hour. If we don't see outbuildings and farms, we hole up somewhere and build a big-ass fire to ward the chill."

Agrax seems energized by the proposal.

"I'll find the damn settlement, if it kills me!" she yips, her voice high pitched and a bit tinny. Like a bolt, she takes the lead, lopes at a great pace despite an ungainly gait and disappears into darkness."

OOC: as she disappears, what is the rest of the party doing? Continuing on? Stopping and waiting for her return?
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:48, Thu 09 Apr 2020.

Kal nodded, "Let's follow but give her some room. You know how she is. She has to be hating this cold!" He led onward in the direction the gnoll had vanished.

Less than a half an hour passes and Agrax comes loping back. She has a fierce grin on her face.

"A round house," she said. "Tucked neatly in a wide glade with a thick stand of trees surrounding it. Some out buildings, look like small hovels for families not fully attached to whomever rules here. The round house appears to be in good shape. Smoke rises from the fire, food's being cooked. Guarantee it's warm in there."

"Then let's see if we can convince them to shelter us for the night. Lead on." Once they arrive at the house, if nothing is amiss, Kal will take Elora with him to knock on the door and ask politely for entry, food and warmth, offering to pay. Kal thought, Elorna can sing for our supper if nothing else. No one can resist that!

Agrax leads the way through a grouping of pine trees, which seem the predominant specie of flora in the surrounds. Eventually, they enter a wide space. Off to the left is the round house as perfectly described by the gnoll warrior. Surrounding the main structure are smaller constructs like little islands in a sea of snow.

A gathering of 12 women have congregated upon the stairs looking down at you. One matron stands regally at the front of the group, one step down, her eyes a bright blue, a twisted staff held in her hands.

"Who are you that trespass upon our lands?"

"I am Kalmus the Grey," Kal said in a friendly tone. "We apologize for the trespass, we were seeking shelter for the night when we spotted your settlement. Have you a barn or other shelter we can spend this cold night in? We can pay."

The woman raised a single eyebrow before replying.

"I'll give you credit, lowlander, you're not shy. Before I say yay or nay, what purpose your journey to the north?"

"We seek something. It's a long, boring story but we're not here to hurt or rob anyone, just find our objective and head back home."

"And what is this treasure you seek," she asked. "Perhaps we can assist you in finding it."

An enigmatic smile touches the corners of her mouth as she awaits your reply.

"I'm afraid my employer was very emphatic about our confidence in the matter. I offer my apologies. While I don't share his concerns, I'm sure he has his reasons. Now, we're freezing, can we treat for shelter or not?"

"What have you to give us, except extra mouths to feed, lowlander?"

"Tis not in our nature to let rooms to strangers for free. And a stranger with even queerer companions hardly offers confidence in your intentions."
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:20, Thu 16 Apr 2020.

"Just a dry barn, if you have no food, we will manage. I will happily give you a gold coin for the inconvenience. That and my thanks."

The woman grew thoughtful at your humility, peered at you closely is if sifting through the multiple layers of your intentions. She seems to come to a decision.

"There are two small abodes that are empty on the far right of the settlement that your party may use. As for cost, I will not charge you coin, but would would spend the night with the feyborn alone. There is much I can learn from her, and perhaps she might learn a few things from me. And the gods know, I don't sleep worth a shit anymore, anyway, and I've never met a fey who needed more than a blink of sleep at any given time. I promise, I'll bring her back in one piece."

Elora nods. "I'll go. I'm interested in hearing what the wise woman has to offer. It might prove valuable. I'll see you on the morrow, luv. Sleep well."

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The next day dawns. You awake to find Elora still sequestered in the round house. As you exit the warmth of your abode, a frigid arctic wind hits you square in the face so that you need to retreat and get your winter clothes on. Once you are properly dressed, you exit again to find Elora and the Headwoman standing on the round house stairs, talking in low tone. The woman looks at you once, then turns and retreats inside.

Elora approaches. She looks tired, an odd observation given her usually ebulliant self. "It was worthwhile, though stressful. That woman would give my mother a run for her gold. I have something for you.

"Come, my bed is still warm. Rest a bit before we leave. I feared she might be some witch that would do you harm but you seemed confident. Once you've rested, we'll break our fast and continue."

Elora smiles, touches your arm. The thrill of her touch still fills you with a mixture of lust and silly, young boy happiness at finding someone you care deeply about. Then she says, "No, we must go. During the course of our conversation she gleaned much despite my best efforts. She gave us a map to the heart of the cold waste; she also offered this to you."

She hands you a bone scroll tube as well as 1 potion of healing (up to 10 points healing) and one potion of extra healing (3-24 points healing).

"You have two spells: Fireball and Lightning Bolt," Elora said. "I advise you to transpose both into your spellbook, but that's up to you. Circumstance may force your hand. And you're still a few ranks short of 5th level."

Kal nodded, frowning. He was concerned about her health but had learned that it was pointless arguing with her. He rounded up the others and stashed the items, giving the extra healing potion to Pious for safekeeping. Before he left, he thanked the wise woman though he thought it should be the other way 'round, and observed the courtesies. Moving off the village property, he studied the map and began to walk towards their goal once more....

Need to catch up my sheet!!

Once outside the village, Elora tells Kalmus what transpired.

"She cast a divination," Elora said. "Mentioned that the deity, Death, had need of certain implements, one of which was a spell book of some power. She warned me, "Stay away from Death, he will not suffer the theft of these items. Also, she mentioned a hidden spirit who has escaped from Death's grasp. The diety was wroth at that spirit's escape"

Her expression anxious, she asks, "Is this what we're going after, this book?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:41, Mon 27 Apr 2020.

"I believe it is," Kal said carefully. Kal cudgeled his memory into producing the speech. "The thing said, 'There is a hamlet in the white lands to the far north called Winter's Home, where witches cast fell sorceries to manipulate others to do their will. Few who go there escape. None who go there escape unscathed.

'In the very center of Winter's Home a great pine tree rises toward the sky, the tallest in all the surrounds. In a bole in the tree sits a book of blackened leather. It has a hasp that locks, with magical wards that will explode and destroy the book if anyone is foolish enough to try to open it. It was put in the bole by a former colleague, Brevin Gard, who, so the tales tell, was hung from the highest bough upside down and left to rot. Winter being what it is in the region, it seems more likely than not that the doomed fellow froze to death.

'All that to say this: find the book and bring it back to me and I shall reward you with two spells that should appeal to your inquisitive nature.

'Fail, and don't bother coming back.'

"And this is what he said, more or less word for word. This undead creature certainly wasn't Death, right? How big a problem is this going to be?" Kal searched her eyes, not liking her worried state of mind.

She shrugged.

"I don't know, luv," she said. "My folk are born of positive forces. Death runs counter to that. I'm afraid for us, if we come face to face with death."

"So how does this bear on our mission from your mother? What must we do? I don't want to unleash Death on innocents and while knew we were aiding folk of less than sterling character, I didn't know that they were that dark."

"All Leanin said was that we should bring the tome back to her once we found it. Elle seemed to agree; at least she didn't say anything that countered Leanin. There seems a lot of moving parts here. I think we just need to be really careful."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:34, Wed 29 Apr 2020.

Kal started to worry about just what that book might contain. He started to get the sense that the book might be worth much to a LOT of people! Looking back to Elora, he nodded, "This game is more interesting than I first thought. While I have my reservations about everyone in it, at some point, we're going to have to figure out what's best or perhaps least harmful and take our shot.

"I think that the next proper town we find, let's get Pious drunk and pick his brain. He may see things in a different light being fully human. Who knows what the gods think of this mess."

ooc:
-Was the XP split ok?
-How do you want to handle hit dice? Roll, add cons bonus, divide by 3, round up?
-Witches: does Kal get the sense that they're just another sort of MU or are they something different altogether?

I don't see where you've made changes to your character sheet for XP. I did answer the question regarding the witches in the OOC thread (I think!).

Yes to your hit dice calculations.

Should be done now... 2 levels fighter this time, makes him a little tougher and can maybe get hit twice before dying now! LOL

A small, wooden waystation appears as dusk falls on the Cold Wastes. It is small for an inn, but there are tables set close together, and a smokey fire burns in a wide hearth, making your eyes tear a bit. Certainly not accomodations that you are used to, but they will suffice. A man takes your order; he is fairly non-descript, with greasy hair and something of a paunch, and he doesn't waste time.

"We've got a mutton/rabbit stew - the coney's fresh caught - and we've beer and spirits. You can stay the night beside the fire, or we've a room for rich guests, enough to fit four, or five if you like it cozy. That'll set you back ten gold."

The stew is hearty, with herbs and salt for flavor. And the home brew is surprisingly stout. To Elora's small disappointment there is no wine, but there are spirits; she chooses a rich brandy that packs some heat.

"Ooh, I like this," she whispers.

The locals are a bit taciturn, and they eye the feyborn with distrust. You see several locals tightening the drawstrings on their belts. Most wear pelts and furs and leather breeches, and carry sharp daggers and spears, all well kept. Still, no one bothers you and shortly after his brief speech the proprietor returns with your food.

Pious digs in. Around prodigious bites of his stew, he asks, "You mentioned questions, Kalmus. What sort of questions did you have in mind?"

<blue>"Pious, this tome, it seems that the undead wants it but it could spell disaster for many. The fey want it too and who knows why. I'd bet a goodly amount that they didn't let Elorna in on that conference. How do you see this? Lend us your wisdom so that we can make a decision."</blue.

Wiping his mouth, Pious said, "You want to know dark lore, Kal. This isn't the place for such tales." Sipping his beer, the priest looks over at Agrax and says, "Keep an eye open, eh, lass?"

When the ranger nods, he hunkers over his pint, takes a sip and continues in a low voice, "Never know who be listenin', eh," he said. "Talk like this, it makes folk anxious. But I do know a few things. I know, for instance, your friend in the crypt is using you. He wants yer heart to restart his own life as a revenent. That is the first step on the path to unlife, a path that will eventually lead him to becoming a lich. That book he seeks is a dark libram and its sorcery is vile."

Pouring another long draught down his throat, Pious adds, "I'd stay away from him, Kal. Even Lord Black would share the same wisdom; unlife is wicked and goes against the natural order of things. When we get back to Lankmhar, bring it to the priests of Death and have them dispel the foul curse on it."

Pious adds, "The priests of Death will likely offer you a boon for service."

ooc: meant that for the prior post, but didn't want it to get lost in the mix of other posts.

Kal nodded, "We'll speak more later. For right now, it seems a good first step. Let's eat, get some rest and back on the road on the morrow."

What kind of sleeping arrangements are you going to make?

You can sleep near the fire, or there's a private room to rent for 10gold. You'll need to confirm with the keeper if the room is free.

Kal decided to circulate a little first, hear the tales of the locals then sleep near the fire. He would have Agrax watch a while then wake him so he could watch the middle hours of the night then perhaps have Pious watch the remainder. If he sensed overt hostility, he'd check on the room!

"I am going to sleep," Elora said. Yawning, she said "I'm tired." She moves close to the fire, and wraps herself in her cloak; shortly after, you can hear a delicate snore coming from her direction (yes. delicate).

Kal looks around. He's weary as well, though curious about the locals. There doesn't seem much laughter despite the availbility of pretty good food and drink. It makes him wonder.

As you look on, you note that the locals aren't surly, more that they're dour, dark and not really interested in what others are doing. As such, casual conversation is absent. The only talk comes from small groups at the tables, their voices couched low as if in fear of intruding upon other guests.

Again, the word 'dour' seems appropo.

That said, if you decide to reach out to locals, there are several individuals casting their eyes your way, curious and studying you surreptitiously.

Choosing one such observer, Kal casually engaged him in conversation. "We're just passing through but couldn't help but notice how quiet the place is. We're more used to roadside inns being a bustling, chaotic endeavor. What troubles this place?"

The gentleman nods as you approach. "Have a seat," he said, though it came out in rush like one word: haverseat. His accent is thick, though you can't tell if it's a local brogue, or if he's also an out of towner.

"I'm Corley McHugh, sometime drover, sometime merchant, sometime drunk. I'm thinkin' I'm merchant right now, but another pint might make that claim libelous."

He tips his cup. It's empty.

"An empty cup is something we can remedy. I'm a bit dry myself." Kal motioned for two more cups. Once served, "It must be a lot of work being three things at once. How do you manage it?"

"I spend most of me time drunk, truth told. Makes things easier that way."

He laughs to himself before taking a long drought of his beer. "Pretty good brew," he opines. "Now, tit for tat, I say. What can I help you with?"

"So, beer is the secret! I'll keep that to myself. Want? well, it is as I said, we're passing through and noted that the place is very somber. I was wondering why, did someone die?"

Corley almost spits his beer out in laughter. "I should think not!" he said when he'd caught his breath. "At least I hope not. But folks here are just a bit, well, queer, fer lack'o a better word. The Cold winds and blizzards'll do it to ya if yern'ot paying attention. I s'pect that local folks be wonderin' who you are. Kinda reticent, they are. But they'll warm up t'ya if you'll let 'em."

"Here, now, take lovely Cassi there. She likes to talk almost as much as she likes to, well, you know..."

Kalmus glances over, notes a very large woman pushing some 3oo lbs. She's offers a smile and a wink, the downs a pint in one long swallow."

"Ah! I see, I could imagine hard weather and hard life leads to a natural caution." He smiled back at Cassi (LOL:) (You're not THAT old are ya?) and hoped she wouldn't take it personally.

"But, you're a merchant. Perhaps you can tell us of danger and opportunity on the road ahead. It would certainly help." Kal checked the beer level while nursing his.

OOC: figured you'd pick up on that. LOL. Ol' Mama Cass...California Dreamin.

Corley and Kal share their mirth for bit. Kal lifts a hand, but Corley shakes his head. "No, thank ye kindly, but I'm about wore out. Gotta a run tomorrow, too, headin' south for couple days so can't stew in my cups. Don' know what yer plans are...mebbe we'll meet again on my return. Best wishes either way - and if ya buy ol' Cass a drink, it might be worth yer while. She got a bit of mischief in her, even more wisdom. Have a good night, Kal."

With that, he heads out the door with a couple of waves and disappears in the darkness.

You look over at Cass and she raises an eyebrow.

What would you like to do?

Kal considered the possibility that Cass would misread the situation but decided to buy her a drink anyway. He nodded politely and joined her at the table. Once the drink arrived, he said, "Cassi, I'm Kal. We're just through here on our way more or less north. Corley said you might know some things. Care to chat?"

As fun as bedding a woman more than twice his size would be, Kal was very content with the lovely and talented Elorna.

ooc: California Dreaming, what a great song! Don't make 'em like that anymore.

ooc: no, they don't. Love the Mamas and the Papas. They really had a unique sound.

You head to Cassi' table, unsure of what to expect.

"Cassi, I'm Kal. We're just through here on our way more or less north. Corley said you might know some things. Care to chat?"

"That's quite the lovely you've got over there. I'd ask how you scored such a gal, but you have look of a man who appreciates beauty and takes the time to cultivate a relationship. As for knowing things, well, live long enough and you can gain a bit of wisdom. What's on your mind, luv."

Conversation is briefly interrupted as the keeper of the establishment places a goblet of rose brandy in front of Cassi. She takes a delicate sip. "Ah, yes, delicious." She raises her eyebrows waiting for you to answer.

"We're headed north and it seems like the farther we go, the more grim the folk are. Is it the weather or does something else trouble these lands?"

Cassi mulls it over for a moment before replying.

"You've probably figured out that the Cold Wastes are, well, cold. From early autumn to late spring, the temperatures are frigid. The few warm spells we get usually come with runoff and terrible floods. The settlements throughout the area are filled with hardy folks but hardy doens't really make you invinceble. We lose hunters and trappers every winter, children get lost...I mean, it's a bad place to live. And then when you factor in creatures of the dark like undead and wil-o-wisps and yetis drawing people to their doom, you got a recipe for some gloomy people."

She takes another thoughtful sip, then goes on to say, "Fortunately, most of the folk up here are tough as iron, but no so brittle. Kinda like Old Corley - good folk, solid, the first ones that'll start a search for missing folks, don't matter if they're kin or not."

"But I got a feeling you got other thoughts on your mind. Tell me what yer thinkin, and I'll try to steer you right. You got a nice face, wouldn't want a night stalker to rip from your skull."

She smiles blandly at the last.

"I'm not sure what a "Night Stalker" is but I'd ask this first," Kal lowered his voice so that it did not carry beyond the confines of the table, "What do you know of Winter's Home and its environs?"

"Ugh," she grunts. "There are some strange steads up in the heights. That's one of 'em. You may have noted in your travels that the women have a lot say in what goes on in each stead. Winter's Home takes it further. The women's circle is run like an old time coven. The lead lady up there demands that everyone call her Beldame. Rumor has it that she's killed at least three of the male elders for various offenses. I don't know if that's true, but I've heard it from multiple sources. Is that where you're going?"

ooc: gotta run, have an appointment. I'll pick this up later.

"Yes, I think it is. Not sure what to expect or what we might find so anything you can tell us is most appreciated."

"Well, I don't spend a lot of time up there. I have met the woman on a couple of occastions, both times she was away from the stead, looking around for material components and rare herbs. At least that's what she said. In both instances she had a basket with her, so I'll take it on faith that she was truthful, despite my doubts.

"I will tell you, she's strong. Her aura almost enveloped me. Now, I suspect you know enough about magic - being a practitioner of the arts yourself - that an aura isn't something that announces itself. Both times she meant for me to feel her strength. Whether that was in warning, or she was just showing off, I don't know. But anyone brassy enough to test another wiccan like that has to be pretty assured of herself.

"Both times we said a few words and passed on by, but I sure felt her stare as I departed from her. I would warn you not to go there, but I suspect you'll ignore me. If you do go, make sure that pretty little thing has a ward or two against enchantments. They may just save your life. I wish you and friend's luck, lad. Thanks for the drink. If you have no more questions, I'll take my leave."

She stands, but hovers just in case you have anymore questions.

"Just one thing more, what's the best ward or spell against that sort of magic? Do you know these spells?"

"There are a lot of spells that might be useful. Alarm is a solid warding spell, will sound an alarum, ergo the name. Darkness, an arcane spell, syncs nicely with Silence, a priestly spell. And remember, you are feyborn. That, in and of itself, offers some protection. You know as much as I do at this point - give some thought to how you want to approach the Coven, then sketch out a plan with your companions before you leave in the morning. Near as I recall, you still have a couple days journey before you get there. Now, I must be off. Good luck!"

She heads out the door, singing, "All the leaves are brown..."

Kal nodded. He would think on that a bit before heading out in the morning. Now, it seemed, it was time for sleep. He would curl up next to Elora until it was his turn to watch...

Agrax sits watch for the night, letting the others take their rest. She looks on as Kalmus pulls Elora close, grins as Pious snores and farts in his sleep.

Amazing he doesn't wake the whole place. Then again, most of the patrons who've bedded down are adding to the symphony of gas.

It is a long watch. As the pale face of dawn finally seeps through the windows, she stands and stretches, then makes her way to the jakes. By the time she returns, several of the patrons have stirred, including Kalmus and Elora. Pious is still soundly asleep, his head cradled on the table he's been sleeping at.

"Agrax, you should have wakened me. Didn't want you up all night."

"I'll be alright, Kal," she replied. "I'm hardwired to wake when I hear strange sounds - this place is full of them. I do better sleeping at campsites, or even in smaller venues than this, unless I have a private room. Even so, gnolls don't typically need a lot of sleep, unlike humans."

She gives a sharp look in Pious direction, followed by a small yip of laughter.

"Then let's break our fast and get on the road." After eating, the party will head north towards the horrible death that awaits...

It's interesting, despite the smallish waystation you just stopped at, as you push north, you see more signs of something remotely looking like civilization - at least as civilized as you can imagine the cold wastes being.

Periodically you see lone steads, plumes of smoke rising from chimneys; some would call them ranches if you will, with large contingents of workers doing their thing. Horses are the norm, Aurochs and other larger beasts are seen in smaller measure - the Aurochs in particular catch your eye - the are HUGE. Cattle of course in large herds.

These steads appear every few hours until dusk draws near. With halflight guiding your way, you no longer see signs of the ranches...almost like there was a line of demarkation.

You spend the night outdoors; Pious again grumbles, but wraps himself tight and, surprisingly, volunteers to take first watch. As an aside, he suggests, "Sleep lightly. We are drawing close to our destination. It would not surprise me if members of the coven were even now patrolling their surrounds."

Elora heeds the priest, says, "I'll take a look about." Before Kal can object, she disappears with a small pop."

30 minutes or so pass when she returns.

"There are are two sets of footprints heading northwest. I followed for as long as I felt safe, then retreated back here. Kal, there is a strong presence in the direction the footprints led. Stronger than me." Her face shows concern in the firelight.

"Should we move? I see it troubles you but whoever it is, they have not threatened."

"That's true, but we haven't caught their attention yet, either. You know, I'm not a fraidy cat, but the vibe here is...dark. Almost as dark as my Gran, and that's saying something. Wish she was here now."

She pauses, looks at your with those beautiful eyes and asks, "Are you sure you don't wanna turn around?"

"Is that even an option at this point? Yes, of course it is... you say the word, luv, we turn back. We'll find some other spot of mischief." Kal held those eyes and knew he'd not risk her if the situation got dicey. There was always plunder somewhere warmer and less dangerous!

Elora huffs, sighs then blows a tuft of her bangs to the sky.

"That's why I love you, Kal," she said. "You get it. You don't demand or demean, you just listen. And I would follow you into hell just because you understand what a girl like me needs."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The party readies itself for the final leg. Agrax takes point, her halberd pointed to the sky. Kal and Elora follow behind her, and Pious keeps one eye to the rear as they make there away from the waystation toward Winter's Home. The track is easily manageable. The weather is bright, but brisk beneath a strong breeze. Bundled as they are, they are managing, but worries of where they will stay the night lingered. Time followed them, an invisible companion that marked their steps. Still, despite doubts, they make good time until, climbing a small rise, they find themselves atop an overlook that offers a panoramic view of the surrounds.

"Isn't it beautiful," Elora said, frost exiting from her mouth with each eager exhalation. "You can see forever up here!"

And she's almost right. The view is spectacular and its easy just to stare. But the bitter bite of winter blows hard. The time is now near dusk; indeed time has not paused to admire the surrounds. It just goes implacably on.

"We need shelter," Agrax said. "Too cold and windy up here for a campfire. If we can't find shelter, it'll be a long night."

What's the plan?
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:39, Thu 14 May 2020.

Kal said, "Use the view to spot a nice cranny, rockface or maybe a cabin. We don't want something that will hold the cold, just a nice windbreak where we can make a good fire for the night and perhaps block the wind with brush. We'll worry about whatever is dogging our steps when it's time."

He regarded Elora for a moment and said softly, "I'm a little surprised we didn't turn back. Either way is fine but I must say; I wouldn't blame you if you made a different call. Let's get out of this wind before we freeze!" Kal scanned the surrounding countryside for a likely sheltering spot for the night.

Agrax takes the lead, yips once loudly then disappears down the slope. Pious stares, looking at the surrounds. As you and Elora prepare to hunt for a nook in the rock, you hear him mutter, "Even the gods cannot stand against the power of creation."

You couldn't swear it, but perhaps you saw a thin slice of light reflecting in dampened eyes as he departed the overlook.

An hour passes. Kal and Elora almost stumbled into a black bear's cave, the big mother curled in a tight ball, ignoring you both as she made ready for the birth of her cubs still some months away. Elora cast a silence spell and you snuck away none the worse for wear.

As you both reconvened atop the overlook, you found Pious and Agrax there ahead of you. Before you can say anything, Agrax said, "Good news, bad news. The good news is that I found a cave. The bad news is that it's occupied...by a hill giant. Or we can freeze our privates up here."

Kal shrugged. "Maybe the giant will take a deal?" he examined each face to see if they thought him mad...

"A hill giant," Elora exclaims. "Ew, they're ugly and mean and stupid. Yuck. I bet it's cave smells really bad. No, better we should kill it. They don't understand the art of negotiation.

"Agrax, was it sleeping? Perhaps we can stage some sneak attack?"

Agrax shook her head.

"No, it was sitting in the entry way, a big fire burning with what appeared to be a cow or bull of some sort. Actually smelled kind of tasty, but I wasn't gonna ask for a bite. I beat feet before it could smell me."

Kal considered his companions. Unless they killed the giant quickly, there would be deaths. He said, "I can hit it from behind and hope to wound it but I don't see any way we can kill it without taking some serious injury ourselves. Any other options?"

Agrax grinned. "No guts, no glory."

Pious said, "A hill giant is a terrible foe."

Elora said, "Let's kill it. It might have some treasure. Also, I'm cold."

"Agreed. Does anyone have a spell that might even the odds a bit? I can probably take it by surprise but on my best day, I won't kill something so powerful."

ooc: all I can think of is to backstab it and have casters throw their magic then it comes down to if Agrax and Kal can hack it up before it tears us apart. The player in me says this is very ill advised but with surprise and a couple spells... meh, might work!

"Hmm, what if I cast a silence spell about you," Pious said. "If you could stay out its line of sight, you'd be able to get close without the beast hearing you. The spell lasts for about 24 seconds - if you can make your way above it somehow, I can cast it from about 120' away."

"Maybe I could draw it out, outside the range of the priest's spell, giving you a bit more room to manuever."

And maybe I can throw some fireworks into the mix and see what happens," Elora said, a saucy smile on her face.

"Very well, let's give it a try!" He thought about things a moment and added, "I think it dangerous but if you all are willing to risk it, so be it.

"Pious, when you see me moving to get behind it, cast your spell. Agrax, when Pious casts, prepare to attack it when it turns to deal with me, Elora, do your thing when it's best. If it kills me, know that I could not have ever asked for finer companions."

More softly to Elora: "Nor have I ever loved anyone before."

Kal studied the situation carefully and, if he's able to slip behind the giant, he will do so. If not, he'll have Agrax draw it out then attack it from behind.

ooc: 1-12+2 damage double dice? double total damage? Let's see, max strike 28 points... liable to just piss it off. Have Elora bury me someplace up high where the wind can take my spirit away...
This message was last edited by the player at 19:46, Sun 17 May 2020.

ooc: O ye of little faith.

I'll be posting tomorrow at some point, just add a bit of suspense. One thing, I will be giving specific descriptions so that you have all the info at your disposal. If there's a question, don't hesitate to ask. This a tough fight, so I'm going to be as fair as possible while still maintaining the integrity of the game.

I'm looking forward to it - and if you survive, I will willingly award the experience that comes with it. You will have earned it.

ooc: an ogre, I think we take it but a giant? Going to come down to a few rolls and this roller hates me!

OOC

Cave and Surrounds: You will note several things:

1- each square is roughly 5'
2- the black lines denote the cliffs above and below.
3- the red points downward at the cave.
4- the blue is the cave with an 'X' marking where the giant is sitting.
5- the green is path left and right. it descends both ways, with the cave being the apex at that point.

Above and below the cave (black lines) is mountain side. A good climber like Kal should be able to climb that height fairly easily. Take a bit of time to study the map as if you were Kal and feel free to ask questions. Agrax got close to the opening in her initial exploration, so she'll be able answer some of your questions. Pious will also have input, specifically on some of his clerical spells and Elora, as always, is a wild card.

Don't forget tactics. You're the boss. Don't rush. When you feel comfortable with your plan, let me know and we'll play it out. Worst case, if it gets too sticky, you can always run away.

Oh, and good luck. I think you have a better chance at this than you think. We'll see.


This message was last edited by the GM at 17:57, Mon 18 May 2020.

Nice! Lets me see what's what.

Questions:

Is the giant facing inward or outward? To the best of your knowledge given you by Agrax, he's sitting just within the cave facing outward behind a cookfire (which is substantial given it's giant)

How steep are these cliffs? The cliffs are sheer, but seem to have plenty of handholds both above and below the cliffs.

How steep is the path? The path seems to be a game trail. Agrax suggests that the Giant found it a bountiful source of prey, though she wonders if the prey have figured things out by now. Most of the markings below the cave appear old

Rudimentary idea forming: If Kal could backstab or otherwise engage the giant and have the brute chase him down the path to a point at which we rigged up triplines, perhaps we could send the brute over the side then kill it if the fall doesn't do our dirty work...

You haven't traveled to the cave yet. You're going over your plans/ideas. Once you start moving toward the cliff, I'll be more specific.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:00, Tue 19 May 2020.

ooc: here's what I know: you're going to use tripwires to try to knock the giant off the cliff to its death. I know you have the rope for it, at least 200' worth. Do you have spikes or pitons to secure the rope tightly in place?

Also, I know Agrax saw the giant briefly, inside the cave. I'll assume she'll leave a marker for Pious within his spell range for the silence spell.

What do you want Elora to do?
How do you plan to employ a backstab - you mentioned as part of the plan as well.

Just trying to be as specific as possible.

Which way was the giant facing?

Out. He can see the overlook you guys initially arrived at, and the game trail that runs in front of his cave, but the drops both above and below him are shear, so the sightlines are bad for him. There are plenty of hand holds if you want to climb above or below his vantage.

You are coming at him from the periphery, so he won't notice you until you are directly in front of the cave.

The silence spell lasts for 24 seconds, so once Pious casts it, the clock will begin to tick.

Kal will scamper up for a quick recon. If he can drop behind the giant, we'll execute the plan with Pious silencing the area, etc. If he can't then we rely on the trip lines. Hopefully, there will be enough surprise for Kal to run for the triplines after the backstab and send the creature plummeting to his death!

Specifics:

where are you scampering from & to.

Are you going all the way above the cave and trying to sneak in for a backstab? What happens after that?

Also, are you setting up triplines? Agrax has pitons and spikes, so you could create a pretty nasty trap - how are you going to get the giant to trip your trap?

I'm not trying to be a dick, I want specifics because specifics will give you the greatest chance of success.

Yeah, I was a little vague, wasn't I?


Up the hill around where the giant cannot see me. The hope is to see if there is some room behind the giant for Kal to silently drop in under the silence spell and backstab then sprint for the trap.



Yes, that's the intent and then sprint towards the trap to have Agrax ready to trip up the beast, sending him screaming to his death!



Agrax will set and manage the trap while Kal descends behind the giant (room permitting) under the silence spell. He will then backstab with his longsword and sprint away to the trap. We will set the trap so that when Kal moves over it, it doesn't go off but when the giant comes, his feet are entangled and we send a large rock over the side to tip the balance and send our big friend plummeting to his death below.


No worries, I was not very specific! I had initially wanted a better look and assumed you'd know Kal would use the earth as a screen but then again, one does need to be specific if one wants to kill something this powerful.

Excellent plan - let's see how this plays out!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You walk with Pious, coming left to right until you're both about 100' away from the cave. You can see smoke rising from the giant's cookfire, but you don't see the giant.

At the edge of the lower cliff (this is the cliff you hope the giant will fall from - it is easily an 80' drop) Agrax is setting a clever trap. Using a number of pitons, along with some pine trees affixed to the cliff face, she first secures the rope at waist level (for a gnoll!) then repels down and sets a spike trap that should finish the beast - if it's even still alive. If everything works as you hope, you'll have your victory!

Step one: Climb the face above the cave entrance: Roll your climbing check. Once you start climbing, Pious will cast his Silence, 15' Radius spell. It will last for 24 seconds.

Step two: Backstab. Pretty simple, if you score a solid 'to hit' roll, you put yourself in position to take this giant down. With silence, you have a surprise round, then you roll for initiative. Roll GOOD!!!

Assuming the giant is still up after two rounds of attack (and you aren't dead yet) you dash to the ledge leading below - Agrax has set up lines some 5' before the fall as part of the plan and has tried to camoflage them as best she could. You merely need to stop before the edge - that will require a dexterity check d20. The giant will require a saving throw at -3 to stop himself going over the cliff.

Let me know if you have questions before you start - once we go live, I can't help you anymore!

Dude, fired up! Good luck!
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:35, Wed 20 May 2020.

22:14, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 9 using 1d12+3.  damage 1.

22:13, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  free attack giant.

22:13, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 14 using 1d20+5.  backstab giant.

The first attack would hit AC 4...

Kal backstabbed the giant after he dropped noiselessly into the cavern. When the spell wore off, he tried to slash the giant during the 'bonus' round and fumbled his sword! Not being a complete fool, he sprinted for the traps, ducking beneath the ropes Agrax had set to ensnare and kill the giant! With luck, the beast would pitch from the ledge to his death...

ooc: I think 14 would hit and that would either be 18 damage or 15 depending on if you double total damage or dice damage, respectively...

Error: You're actually approaching from Right to Left - sorry for any confusion.

Kalmus does everything perfectly, except hit the giant with his sword during the surprise round. He gets another opportunity, however, and scores 18 points of damage. Nice hit!

For his part, the giant recovers from his surprise, and after screaming in pain and rage, he picks up a boulder and flings it at Kal!

As the giant's boulder heads toward Kal, a translucent disc in the shape of a shield appears before him (additional +1 to armor).

Despite Elora's desperate attempt to provide further cover, the giant's rock is mightier than the shield. On a natural 20, he takes 16 points of damage.

Staggering, Kal flees toward the cliff, running as fast as he ever has despite the pain of his wounds. As the giant grabs another boulder, Elora again intervenes, casting Stinking Cloud upon the brute, the area of effect half in and half out of the cave.

The giant drops the rock, and stumbles around the cave, roaring and coughing. He seems disoriented by the smell of the spell, then discerns that it might be better to exit the cave. Once on the game trail, he falls to his knees and pukes up his guts.

Pious runs toward the battle, limbering his arm as he does so. The silence spell fades as he draws near the giant.

Agrax looks over at Kal and says, "Perhaps a retreat is in order? He doesn't seem inclined to head our way. Then again, an attack might be the best course of action, while he is still indisposed."

Kalmus, What are you gonna do?

DM hint: were it me, I'd hunker down the cliff out of sight and drink the potion of healing you have stashed away in case of emergency. DM caveat - this particular potion will offer the full 8HP when drunk. Consider that a gift from the gods, who seem pleased with your moxie.

Three natty 20's 1-Kal, 1-Giant, 1 Giant saving throw. Can't make this stuff up. I'm just surprised you didn't fail the climb check. Yet, here we are!!! Good fight so far.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:58, Thu 21 May 2020.

Kal opted to retreat and drink the potion. He said, "That thing is strong! We're damned lucky I wasn't sqished like a bug. Let's regroup and attack. Pious, do you have any healing? I'll not die if I don't get help but I'll take every advantage right now."

Kal intends to goad the thing in to chasing him, perhaps by peeking around the edge of the cavern and throwing something at the giant, then ducking quickly out of sight and running like hell for the trap! A ribald insult or three might help as well.

ooc: at this point, Kal is below the sightline from cave. The giant is hands down, leaning on the ground as he fights the stink. Pious is approaching the giant at a run from the game path.

DM caveat: I'll assume one of Agrax or Elora calls to Pious to divert to Kal for healing. Pious comes through like a holy champ: 8pts of healing! You should be back to normal health.

Suddenly, Elora calls out, "The giant's not dead yet. Actually, he's getting better."

From his vantage on the game trail, the giant can see Pious and Agrax. Madder than a bee stuck in honey, he grabs a stone and lofts it in their direction. Well placed, the stone scores a solid hit upon the priest's cuirass! 10 points damage!

Worse, Pious starts to wobble on the edge of the chasm. As a sick sense of vertigo comes over the priest, Kal catches him, pulls him back from the edge (rolled 18 to save vs. Paralyzation). He's still injured, but not dead!

"Close call, young Kal," Pious said, his eyes wide. He's latched onto Kal's arm as if he's not going to let go.

STATUS REPORT: The start of Round Three: It seems obvious that the giant is content to lob boulders down the hill. You all are about 50' from the cave. What do you wish to do, Master Kalmus?
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:05, Thu 21 May 2020.

"Pious, hang back, hit it with all you have everyone else! It dies. Dodge when he throws, there is time, then resume the attack."

Unlimbering his bow, Kal fires off two fine hits!

19:04, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 1 using 1d6.

19:04, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 3 using 1d6.

19:04, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 20 using 1d20+2.

19:03, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 21 using 1d20+2.  short bow

ooc: WTH? I never get rolls like this unless I don't want them!

Kal looses two arrows, both hit for a bit of damage: 4points total - that's now 39 points of damage to the giant.

Pious looses a stone from his sling: Miss

Always one to face down fear, Agrax charges up the slope with her halberd in hand. The 10' weapon gives her reach - will it be enough to score some damage? IT's A HIT! 17! 5 points damage!

And last, but not least, Elora stops screwing around trying to save everyone - instead, she focuses upon an old but good evocation spell, magic missile and looses three azure missiles toward the giant. (fingers crossed!). All three magic missiles fire unerringly and lace through the hide and hair of the great hill giant.

Nerveless, the beast's stone falls from his hand. He looks down, unsure of what's happening, then his eyes roll back and he falls face first upon the path. Blood seeps from his wounds, but there is no doubt, the giant is dead!

HOLY FUCK! THAT WAS FUN AS HELL! WELL DONE, SIR...WELL DONE!

You guys accounted for 39 points damage: Kalmus did the most damage, followed by Elora and then Agrax. Pious helped keep Kal alive. Great teamwork, very cool battle. Now, go explore the stinky cave.

The things we do for warmth....

Takes me back to my Lockice campaign here...geez... was the second game I ran here.

Shivers thinking about it.

bic: Kal clapped Pious on the shoulder fondly and gently then seized Elora and kissed her soundly. "Thank you, my love, would have died if not for you and my friends!" Kal held her hand while they followed Pious up the slope to steady him if needed, intent on seeing what they had won for themselves...

I don't think I've had that much fun on RPol since I ran the Melford Campaign!

The party, jubilant, makes their way to the cave entrance. The fire is still burning merrily: really the fight only took maybe two minutes. Maybe. The wood had yet to burn down. There's a pot on the fire; you can't tell if the smell is from the food or the stinking cloud that Elora cast earlier. Safer than sorry you pass the pot and head into the bowels of the cave. It is there that you realize 'bowels' is an apt description; the giant used the back of the cave as his personal bidet. The smell was nearly as bad as the the Stinking Cloud.

Holding your breath as much as possible, you come upon a large chest. It is not locked that you can tell. It does seem well made, and certainly is big enough to hold all sorts of treasure. Greed comes to the floor; you all are breathless as Kal checks the chest for traps.

Roll find/remove traps, please?

19:51, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 47 using 1d100.  FRT giant's chest

Crap... 40 is the mark.

Maybe it won't be fatal?

that was fun, let's not do it again for a couple levels!

Unsure of yourself, you step back, tell everyone else to do the same. Then you reach with your sword and open the chest. The cover opens all the way and...nothing happens. Inside, you see a Finely made linen sack.

Elora said, "Step back lover. I'm gonna see if there's any magic in there."

Casting her detection spell, she notes two pieces that contain an enchantment. One is the sack itself. Within the sack is something else, something with an evocation enchantment laid upon it. Eager always, she opens the bag and reaches in so far that she nearly falls in!

Whispering, she said gleefully, "A bag of holding! And not small one either! I think this will fit quite a lot of treasure!"

More carefully, she pulls forth a long sword. Sheathed in weathered leather, the hilt looks very fine, with a ruby pommel-stone carved into the shape of a flame affixed at the bottom. Elora hands you the sword.

"Take it out, love," she said, almost a command. "I wish to see it."

His will in lock-step with hers, he draws the blade. It emits a small amount of heat...

The smell of the cave grows cloying. The fire burns a bit low, and the blub-blub of whatever is cooking is almost nauseating. The giant is still on the game trail - fortunately it is winter so he likely won't stink until spring. As a group, you clean up the refuse, tidy up the inside and rebuild the fire. Sharing trail rations all around, you eat well. In the dark of night, Elora holds sigil over the blade.

The next morning, Elora tells you that "The blade is magical, a minor flametongue. Somewhere on the blade or the hilt of the sheath is a password to effectuate the latent powers of the blade." (STATS: +1, +2 cold/undead.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:22, Fri 22 May 2020.

Final note: I'll be setting up the next chapter called "Winter's Home" either later tonight or sometime tomorrow. Congrats again. That was a lot of fun. You did great! Oh, and a hint: check the leather on the inside of the sheath near the top.

:p

Kal, following his gut, checked the sheath out as well.

ooc: Was there any monetary treasure or did the giant have a big sack like some of them carry?

Oh, yeah, 500g, 2000s & 3 gems valued at 500g apiece.

"Those would look pretty on my fingers, wouldn't they, Kal?"

The bag was full of detritus and mostly useless items. You already took the useful stuff, unless you like carrying around 40lb. rocks. :)

Inside the sheath is the word 'fire.' It will activate the flame, otherwise the sword works like a typical +1 sword.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:44, Fri 22 May 2020.

Kal said, "Seeing as how your magical fingers that bring songs to life and hard men to tears are lovely anyway, I'm quite sure you're right."

Elora looks around at everyone with a big smile on her face. "Ain't he grand!"

Kal made sure everyone had a chance to rest. He asked Pious to heal everyone completely when they'd had a chance to rest and recover spells. Once everyone was good to go, he made sure that they had a good meal before heading out towards the village and their fate. He spoke to everyone to gauge their morale and esprit de corps. If anyone was lacking, they would take an extra day in the cave and relax...

After, they would move towards the village.

ooc: Thanks! been a long, ignorant weekend!! Winter

And so the long journey concludes. Heading north and west for most of the day, at last you come upon what appears to be a slope down into a wide bowl. Pausing a moment, you study the surrounds. The valley seem prosperous. As the sun sinks quickly beyond the lip you take note of the plumes of cook fires and the smell of smoke heavy in the air. Echoing in the distance is what sounds like a smith still at his forge striking metal. For some reason that seems a good omen.

Dusk drops suddenly, swallowed whole by the gluttonous darkness. The sun is a seasonal resident this time of year and only shows her face briefly. The moon is absent, but the grand expanse of stars offer a fine luminescence that offers a bit sight to those who do not have dark vision (Pious). The Star Wanderer likely smiles overhead as Kalmus and Elora, and even Agrax stand transfixed as if worshiping in some heavenly cathedral. It is a breathless sight.

A sudden, deep voice hails you. "Annouce yourselves, travelers."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ooc: Welcome to Winters Home. Some minor hints. This adventure is more about personality, more about mystery, more about Kalmus and the rest of the party using their skills to max affect. Daylight is in short supply - you are actually arriving just shy of 4pm, though it feels later.

The highest level character is 7th level, so wits are more important than fire power. Your ability scores will be more important than your saving throws or attacks. If you get into a fire fight, it will be like the boy scouts taking on the Navy Seals. You don't want to get into a straight up fight here.

The last adventure was fun - you thought you were going to lose, but you didn't. AND you did most of the heavy lifting. I believe you have a fair to middlin chance of succeeding in this adventure as well. Whatever the outcome, I hope you have fun. Good luck!

-Stormbringer

"Hail! I am Kalmus the Grey and these are my friends. We are come here today to see this village and petition the Beldame for audience, full of hope that we can learn and grow somewhat before returning to warmer climes. Who is it that asks?"

A soft chuckle comes from the man, though it doesn't seem haughty, merely amused.

"Well, Master Kalmus, you certainly seem to comport yourself well. Let us hope the rest of your band do the same. I assume these other three are the entirety of your group? How about you all give an old man a hand with bringing tonight's dinner to the Men's cloister. More hands, less work, as I say. It will save me a few steps."

It's hard to tell what he looks like for a moment, then suddenly, like a switch, a small light illuminates the trail. A silver pendant worn around his neck shines a bright light. You all blink back tears for a moment, but the light is soft and you recover quickly. As he throws the deer over broad shoulders, he said, "One o' you grab the boar. 'Tis a young one, shouldn'a be too tough to carry." (about 80lbs)

A couple things stand out: All his gear is well made and well kept & of masterwork quality. His composite bow rests attached to a quiver filled with well crafted arrows and a hand and a half sword rests easily upon a back sheath. He wears fine and well oiled studded leather armor and leg boots that reach his knees.

What strikes you the most, however, is the open good-nature he seems to possess, in spite of the rumors and warnings you've heard of Winters Home. His face is ruddy and weathered, and he's got a 'What, me worry?' look in his eyes that sparkle from the lighted pendent.

"I am Olaf Innerson, head of the men's cloister and chief lieutenant of the Beldame," he said. "No' that it matters much, she don't listen to what I've to say anyway, unless it suits her - or she's horny. Come now, I've a bit a whiskey I'd share with you all when we get to where we are going."

Along with the deer and the boar, there are various rodents: possum, squirrels, rabbits - especially the really big northern breeds that grow more than than 20lbs. The trek to the the cloister is about 155 yards and takes about ten minutes. By the time you get there, most of you have worked up a small sweat.

Once inside, all of you are greeted by a mountain of man who also possesses Masterwork gear: broad sword, chainmail, composite bow. "About damn time, y'old fart." he said to Olaf. He looks at you and the party and snorts, "Southrons."

Turning back to to Olaf, he said, "I'mma heading out, goin' to Cold Breach to visit Helka. My catches are in the kitchen - the boys are cleaning now. I'll see you on the morrow."

Olaf nods, says, "Make sure her husband's not back yet from the northern reaches."

"I know my business, Olaf. Don't you worry." With that, he departs with a slam of the door.

You are currently in small entryway that opens up into a larger communal area. In the kitchen area, you note a squad of younger men cleaning the kills and grab-assing - Olaf throws his catches on the table before moving to a larger sitting area. He opens a cabinet and pulls out the whiskey then pours five cups before passing them around.

"A little warmth in Winters Home," he toasts, then belts it down in one large gulp. "Now, tell me what brings you to ass end of hell, why don'cha?"

"We came to speak with the Beldame. There is something we think she can help us with that maybe no one else can. We were sent up by an interested party but we're not so sure we should fulfill this particular contract."

Olaf grimaces a bit in thought, says, "That's a bit short on details, no? I canno' just go into the Beldame's lair and say 'this here fella needs to speak with ya about a contract.'

"Trust me, she'll want particulars."

Kal looked to Elora for guidance. He was unsure how much to tell this man even though he got the sense that the man was the decent sort. "It's not a simple matter," Kal explained. "There is more than one stakeholder that wants to know this stuff, so I am unsure what to say." His look told Elora that she should give him guidance or speak up if she wanted.

Elora looked at Kal, then Olaf.

"It has to do with the old magics," she said. "Prior to meeting my...She stops. "Um, what are we, Kal? I mean, are we a couple, an item? Or am I just some floozy hanging on your arm. Because that's not what I want to be. I am modern woman, not some wilting daisy. You understand that, right?"

Kal was taken aback. He hadn't realized Elora had reservations! He caught her eye and looked into them until she was looking back at him and held nothing else within her eyes. He said, "Whatever you wish to call this, dear, I've thought of no one else since I met you and you have utterly consumed me. It is I who should have fear of you finding better. It is I who should be awake in the night with worry. I would like to tell you that I thank the gods, individually and collectively, every day I have been given with you. Would we to marry, that would be a step down. Were we to be joined in the elfin fashion, it would not be enough. I am yours. Call it what you will."

Elora shakes her head, as if waving away a blue fly.

"Something's not right," she said. "I feel...strange."

Suddenly, her eyes widen and she said, "Close your mind! Do it now!"

Roll Saving throws vs. magic, please.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:54, Wed 10 June 2020.

02:35, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 4 using 1d20.

Kal, distracted with the thoughts of his relationship to Elora, was a bit slow on the uptake. Trying to shut his mind against whatever was to come, he failed miserably.

Agrax looks confused. "What do mean close my mind?"

Pious, on the other hand, immediately casts bless and puts up his defenses making his mind a mental fortress. He shares a look with Elora, whose expression is grim.

A voice whispers on the breeze: "Bring them to me, Olaf."

Olaf shrugs. "This shouldn't hurt...much." He wears a grin as if in on some secret joke. "Nothing for it, let's go see the lady."

He leads the way over to the largest building in the settlement. Waiting atop the steps is an older woman with an imperious eye. A step behind her is a younger woman who looks on with a neutral expression.

"Our guests," said the elder, offering an appraising eye at Kal. "You may call me Beldame. I know why you are here, but why do you think you are here?"

"Greetings, Beldame. We've been sent to fetch a magical tome, well, that's what I know. Would you kindly enlighten me as to why we're here in truth?"

"Honesty!" She laughs. "How refreshing! You're actually here at my behest."

Turning the young woman behind her, she said, "Be a love and get my stool."

The girl moves with alacrity, is back shortly with a cushioned stool. Beldame unceremoniously plops down with a grunt. "A piece of advice: don't get old."

Situated, she sighed contentedly, then studied your group.

"A fey child, a mixed blood, a lady of the steppes and a priest. I could make a good joke about that.

"Tell me, Kalmus the Gray, all that you know of the spirit in the obelisk and the ghoul who has taken up residence in the remains of a once great house."

"I know very little. We thought the place abandoned and were looking for some starting money so that we could go on an adventure but the adventure was waiting on us. The ghoul, the transparent woman, she had driven her servant mad and he kept saying odd things but she was civil enough towards us. When we penetrated the obelisk and found the creature, it seemed to be more concerned about its books and study than us being there. It was then that he commissioned us to get the tome whilst the ghoul wanted us to end the threat of the creature in the obelisk. It seemed that we might do both by giving over the tome in hopes the undead crossed over. Well, that was the thought. We've learned a lot since then!"</blue>

The Beldame is thoughtful for a few long moments.

At last, she said, "The study of death is for the old, Kalmus. You should have many more decades and perhaps more, before you worry about such things. As for the spirit in the tomb below obelisk, he's sent others this way. My reputation is hard earned. Every time someone disturbs my settlement, I take it out of their hide. Just a few months ago, a youngish man, a spellflinger, if you will, tried to steal a book of dark magic that I had acquired. He is dead now. I pronounced his doom, Olaf carried it out. Shriveled remains are still in the tree we hung him from.

"Now, I'm not telling you this as warning, I'm just telling it to you straight: you are welcome as guests, perhaps more if you like really fecking cold weather. But if you follow that last fellow's rede, you'll find a spot on that tree right next to his cold corpse. Do I make myself clear?"

"Very much so. I was given to understand that this tome is actually not in  your possession but stuck in some tree. Could it be that it's the same volume and that spirit was sending me to my doom once I checked the corpse?"

"A spirit like that lingers for one purpose. That purpose is to extend his life. Now, as the Gods have ordained, you get one go around, after which there's some divine reward or retribution meted out. That's the normal way of things, anyway.

"But someone like this spirit, who has a bit of arcane power? His type is always ambitious, restless to touch even a small hint of life once again. Doesn't matter to him if he comes back as a barrow wight. He will once walk the earth, delaying his final reward until the true end of existence.

"And he won't stop. Eventually he'll find a conspirator that will slip through the cracks of my security and steal the tomes. Once back in his lair, he'll have the means and the rituals to succeed in his ambition. Pray that he's far away from you when that occurs.

"There is a way to circumvent this restless spirit, however. An exorcism. Tis an ugly ritual performed by ugly men and women, but it works. If you can find someone to perform the exorcism, you can have all the books except those relating to necromancy.

"What say you?"

" 'Books'? I thought there was but one tome. Please illuminate me, I fear I'm walking far more blindly than I thought."

"That's what this spirit does, it tries to deceive you into thinking you're going get something out of the arrangement, but in reality, he'll betray you at first chance. Listen, Kalmus, I'm an old lady. I've been around the tundra more than a few times. To be fair, it would not surprise me if you doubted my rede. But...think about it. Who benefits the most from your arrangement?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:51, Mon 22 June 2020.

"I confess that I have my doubts and any chance encounter in a tomb is likely to be, well, bad. I suppose the spirit benefits far more than we would. We needed a job and one crawled into our lap and insisted upon our help so, rather than die, we took it. I don't think the thing has laid any geas upon us, just a simple transaction to which I swore no oaths or dire binding." Kal paused for a moment for a glance at his lover to see what was in Elora's face before continuing.

"You sound as if you have an idea that might both thwart the spirit in the tomb down south and possibly benefit you and my band of merry wanderers. Since we are well armed with one side of the story, please, tell us what we might do differently and let's hear what it is you want of us in the telling."

Elora said, "It can't hurt to listen."

Pious nods in silent agreement.

"Wise words, young lady," The Beldame said. "So, here is the crux of the matter. There is a troll. Not a typical troll, which are bad enough. No, this troll is tall as a giant and looks as if he's been sculpted in ice. He is very clever, very strong, very old and very mean. To put it in perspective, this troll is more dangerous than the giant you slayed on your way up here.

"This very old and mean troll has stolen the book in the tree; that would be the necromancy portion. Now, I don't know if this troll can read magic. In ancient days, there were tales of truly intelligent trolls. Typically, however, they are cagey and clever. But, you never know. This troll might be a prodigy.

"So, a deal. It has some risk, but it also has a lot of reward as you'll have access to a great number of spells that would normally take you decades to gather. Will you go find this troll and kill it before it can create great mischief? I will share my secrets if you do."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 11:07, Thu 25 June 2020.

"More dangerous than the giant"? Kal thought. We survived that fight mainly by luck and some planning that went badly awry but somehow helped. To fight something even more dangerous is most unwise.

Aloud he said, Beldame, we agree but we are not a powerful group. Does this creature have any weaknesses? One would assume fire but that is an assumption. Also, is there anywhere here we can perhaps purchase potions that might help? One might say we had a healthy ration of luck in defeating that giant, one cannot count on luck without being bitten by it in my limited experience."

"You are wise for one so young," she said. "Yes, we'll provide (2) Potions of healing (1d10 healing each). Furthermore, I'll provide a scroll with Minute Meteors on it. It's an old spell long forgotten that I managed to find. You conjure a flaming orb and throw it as you would a ball. It will then explode if you hit the target. Even you're near, there is splash affect. You have two orbs to throw, so use them wisely."

"One other boon, a potion of warmth. It will last one minute. Be speedy. You do not want to face the cold of that stream. It will kill you in minutes."

I've provided a map as well," she said. "The key landmark is a mountain with a sheer black cliff. All the other mountains in the region are grey in color. It is stark. Below runs a wide stream. Below that is the beast's lair. If you succeed, I will give you a wealth of knowledge."

ooc: don't forget the flaming sword of fire as well.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:19, Sun 28 June 2020.

"Very generous. You have my thanks. We will set out for the monster soon. Is there somewhere we can stay the night and get an early start?"

ooc: you better bet I remembered the flaming sword!

"Whiskey Joe's rents rooms for reasonable rates. Other than that, the Men's cloister is available to the men, and women can stay with us in the Round House. We require you to mind your manners in both instances, but that just means that you say 'thank you' and 'please.'"
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:19, Mon 29 June 2020.

Whiskey Joe's it is! With a nod of thanks, Kal led his bunch off for some rest to prepare for the journey ahead.

Ironically, Whiskey Joe's isn't on the map. It's the newest building in the stead.

You can put him somewhere around 80 yards to the left of the Round House (ladies quarters). In the cold and wind it seems to take forever, but it's less than ten minutes when you see a fairly new construction with light bleeding from frosted windows.

Entering, you see an old man running the tap, a smile near a sneer, on his face. He turns, looks at you, at Elora, Pious and Agrax...he opens his mouth, closes it, opens again and says, "Tables mostly empty, sit where you will. Lil'll be right out."

He pounds his fist on the door to the kitchen, then, and shouts, "LIL, customers."

Just like that, a pretty young lady with dark curls enters with a smile. "Hi! I'm Lil. What can I get you?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:35, Mon 29 June 2020.

"What do you have that's warm and filling? That will do for starters. We'll need rooms, too, please."

"Nikoli brought down a boar this morning. Joe's made a pork roast out of it that smells good and tastes even better," Lil said. "Smashed potatoes on the side with some still fresh onions from the cellar added for spice and flavor. I think you will love it, cross my heart."

And she does cross an ample bosom, a couple times, with a wink and mischievous grin to go with it. Looking at the others, she added, "You're an eclectic lot. Interesting. A bit later, maybe you'll share a tale? As opposed to tail, you seem to have that covered already..."

Joe hollers, "Leave 'em alone, Lil. Get to work. You got time to lean..."

"You got time to clean!" she answered for the old barkeep. "Heard that one a million times."

"Then git busy," he said with scowl.

She laughed like springtime and carried on...

Kal's heart was taken, so he noted the bosom and flirtation with mild amusement but never took his hand away from Elora's. He said, "A nice pork roast after all this cold sounds splendid! Please, bring us some. When we've eaten our fill, we'll tell a tale for desert."

He looked at Elora. "A few weeks ago, I would have been on that woman in a twinkling of your eye, now, hardly noticed. I'm captive of your spell."

"Ah, she's a tart," Elora said. "I'm all class in public. In private, well, you know."

A wicked gleam shines in her lovely eyes, presaging fireworks later in the night.

Suddenly the door opens. A couple of young lads follow a behemoth of a man into Whiskey Joes. He nods at Lil, who smiles winsomely back at him. "I heard you had pork on the menu," the man said.

"Sure do, as good it gets," Lil replied.

"Then a tankard around and all the fixin's" he said.

All three men smell like a forge, pretty easy to note that it's the local blacksmith. In turn, he notes you, pays special attention to Agrax who's gnawing at her meal, oblivious to his stare.

"Usually dogs stay in the kennel," he said aloud.

"Well, if we see one, we'll notify the owner. Thanks for the advice, friend." Kal nodded towards the man politely, hoping that was the end of things.

"Aren't you a right character," he said with a scowl. "Make friends with enemies and piss off those who should be friends. What, you two an item?"

Agrax hoots in laughter.

"Agrax is no enemy, we've been friends for years. I don't want to piss anyone off. We'd stay in the forest if not for the weather, partly to be respectful, partly to keep to ourselves but this cold you endure is very hard on Southerners.

"Besides, you and Agrax would be great friends! You make steel, yes? There is no greater admirer of fine steel that Agrax." Kal thought that, since no one was reaching for weapons, perhaps there was common ground to be found.

ooc: do I get a reaction check? Should we be running?

The big man looks at you skeptically, then looks at Agrax. "What d'ya know 'bout steel?"

Yeah, roll a reaction check. It'll be interesting. If I recall, 50% sets the bar, add your bonus - the higher the roll, the better. IIRC. Let me know if I'm wrong.

22:12, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 63 using 1d100+5.   hmmmm... better than neutral but not super-great!

Agrax looked up from her meal, glanced first at Kal, then over to the burly smith.

Throwing a thumb over her shoulder, she pointed out the halberd left in the corner. "All members of my clan are required to assist in forging their own weapons. If the weapon is forged poorly it will break. If it breaks, I will die. I haven't died yet...so far, it is a well-forged weapon. Maybe tomorrow it will fail...but I don't believe so."

The smith stands up. "Can I take a look?" he said, for the first time showing a bit of respect. When Agrax nods assent, he circles his hands around the haft, then studies the blade. He checks the blades for flaws, tests the balance. In the end he finds nothing wrong with her weapon. With a sniff, he said, "'Tis a fine weapon. Apologies for my churlishness. Been a long day."

He looks over at Lil, says, "I'll take care of lady's meal."

Then he sits down and starts shoving food into his mouth.

The rest of the evening passes by without issue. The Smith offers nod to Agrax and the rest of the party, and a wink and a nod at Lil. For her part, she blows a wanton kiss his way.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The next morning dawns cold but clear; you've never seen such blue skies. It's still cold as death out here though. Wrapping yourselves tightly into your gear you make your way to the entrance/exit of the vale. Olaf awaits you atop the ridge that looks over the valley.

He doesn't stand on ceremony.

"Most trolls are tough and lean, and aren't of anything. This troll's a bit different. Smaller than others of its kind, he's had to fight for every minute he's lived. Says something that he's lived as long as he has. But, at his heart, he's still a coward. He'll flee from you first, but not so far from his life source. That would be the water. You get him out of the water, you will have a fighting chance. The gods of light go with you."

He raises a hand in farewell as you make your way up into the highlands. The first day is uneventful. High above you see a giant eagle soaring gracefully in search of prey. Ten hours of marching brings you a short shelf that's warded from the wind by the surrounding heights.

The next day is more of the same: occasional raptors keeping sharp watch for brave/stupid rabbits. You actually see one of the larger hawks dive, but apparently it missed. Still, nothing out of the ordinary.

At last, you come to a ravine. A small stream runs through it, though something has dammed it up so that a small lake has formed. The waters are dark, bubbly...and the spray that coats exposed skin is very, very cold. This seems a likely place for the troll to hide.

What would you like to do?
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:14, Mon 06 July 2020.

Motioning for the rest to stay back, Kal employed his thief skill and crept quietly up to the pool. Before he got too close, he checked the wind, fearing the troll would smell him, and kept downwind.

The water dances, from the main stream to the pool. Currents eddy beneath the surface of the water, not particularly strong at first glance. It is cold (have I mentioned that?), cold enough that your hands start to cramp up.

Still, the blue skies cast no shadows, and at least offer you good sightlines.

ooc: roll either hide in shadows or move silently, please.

er... 09:48, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 87 using 1d100.  Move silently Troll encounter.

Did I mention the die roller HATES me?

Maybe being half elven will have some bearing but it is out in the open....

You hear a growl like sound of ice cracking, but it fades.

Kal looked around carefully then, if nothing presents itself, he will move parallel to the pool a bit and see what the new angle shows him about the area. If clear, he will move to the opposite side of the ravine to check things from that perspective.

To give you better perspective, think of a horseshoe and you'll kind of get the feel of the surrounds. When you make your move from the original start point, you note what seems to be an entry of sorts, above the roiling pool. Getting up there will be a trick, but once up there you think you might have access to a cavern. Of course, the sun is a bit blinding above a clear blue sky.

Ah! apologies, I obviously was not getting that out of your post.

Kal moved around going from side to side quietly, attempting to get a good look at the opening and perhaps judge how hazardous the approach would be.

No apologies necessary. I did a poor job of describing things.

As you move around, you gain a better perspective of the pool, the stream and the apparent entrance into a cave complex that sits up about 8' from where you stand. Frozen stalactites and stalagmites grin with rictus smiles, water frozen from years of sub-zero temperatures.

Entering will be no easy task.

Climb check, please.

22:22, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 98 using 1d100 ((98))....

Urk.... did I mention that the die roller hates me?

Wow. I need you to roll a save vs. death magic. If you have dexterity bonuses, you can add those to your score.

23:26, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 19 using 1d20+2 ((17)).

Woohoo! die roller did me a solid!!

You come a hair's width of falling into the water - only a last minute lunge and the grace of whatever deity you pray to saved you from freezing to death in the cold water. But, you finally manage to fight your way atop the shelf leading into the icy cave complex. It is...surreal and beautiful.

As you perch upon the ledge, the stream below sings a wild melody, almost hypnotic. You stare at the ice structures that surround you. Most are alabaster, but some are colored an icy blue that reminds you of a lover from your youth.

Turning, around, you see more of the ice structures, but a deeper entrance confounds you.

Roll an intelligence check. The higher, the better.

OOC: I liked the Lahnkar modules you sent. Good stuff. I don't think I appreciated Old Fritz's genius when I was a teen. I was still in the Tolkien mode, which isn't a bad place to be. But Fritz, Lovecraft, Wagner and Howard all brought a different element to their writing. They were cynical and all of them had serious issues that colored their lives.

Anyway, thanks for sharing.

00:07, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 5 using 1d20 ((5)).


Uh... oooops...

Me too! That's about the time some one gave me a copy of "The Black Company" and... well, you've played in my games and WG's opus magnum.

What's with you and the dice roller? Do I have to contract with a voodoo shaman to get you straight with the dice gods?

Tried it. Waste of a perfectly good chicken...

Tired of waiting, Elora comes to find you. In her sing song voice, she calls, "Kal? Kal! Where are you?"

After having stomped around like an ogre in rut and then slid down the hillside, Kal was tempted to just find a handy ice floe somewhere and join other useless folks in the north but finally called softly, "Here" He watched with admiration as the graceful beauty moved towards him wondering which god loved him enough to give him Elora yet hated him enough to give him bad luck at everything else....

Elora finds him easily. "You look angry," she said. "What ails you?"

"Failure, my treasure. Can't seem to do anything right. I am comforting myself by telling myself that anyone you love must be worthwhile." He looked up at the area above the frozen spring, "I think he's up there but I've no idea how we handle him when so many others failed."

"I don't know a lot about trolls, and next to nothing about ice trolls. What I do know is that they are cunning. So you must be more cunning. What are you having a problem with?"

"Everything, dear. Cannot even climb up to that ledge. Cunning. Yes, cunning it is. A kiss for luck perhaps?" Some of Kal's normal cheer and bluster returned as he brightened with Elora's gentle presence.

Elora levitates to the shelf, Kalmus in her arms. As soon as they land, Kal notes a passage that winds its way deeper into the cavern.

Summoning first the will to leave her embrace then to sneak like he's never snuck before, he disengaged from Elora after stealing a kiss. With a wink, he turned and moved slowly and quietly down the corridor...

Ice crystals large and small grow throughout the passage, some, like a prism, shooting multiple colors in many directions, others a blinding alabaster. The effect is disorienting. With Elora's help, you continue on for about fifty yards, straight as an arrow despite the crystals.

Behind you the sound of rushing water begins to fade. Water dripping casts an eerie echo that reverberates along the passage. It is quite beautiful, actually, almost like frosted glass found in a cathedral.

Suddenly, a loud growl issues from further up the passage!

Kal froze then motioned Elora back. They were discovered! He sniffed the air to see if he could tell what sort of creature was growling before inching forward just a bit to see if he could see what was happening.

ooc: based on what I see/hear, currently in favor of quitting the tunnel and studying the outside to see if we can barricade it. First, will pace it off on the surface and see if there are other entries/exits. Maybe we can trap the thing and find some way to burn it out.

Bump....

Should be more or less back to normal on Thursday!!!

Winter

Very good! Thx for the head's up.

Kal paces it out with suggestions from Elora. When all is said and done, it seems there are two points of egress and entry: The ledge and the stream.

It doesn't seem likely that the creature would take a book beneath the surface of the stream; you can probably discount that as option. If that's the case, your choices are narrowed to one. So, where would a monster hide a tome of magic?

He glances at Elora who looks on with loving eyes.

"The ledge, he whispered. "I think that's the best bet, thoughts?"

Elora nods her head. "Seems reasonable," she said. "Let's go look."

Kal nodded, kissed her cheek, winked and led the way towards the ledge, a monster awaited.

After circling around and finding nothing, Kal leads the way back up to the ledge; this time he's particularly careful as he searches the surrounds. Blocking out the noise from the cascade of water, he focuses on any sort of hidey-hole that might contain a libram full of spells.

Okay, time to play: I'll need a wisdom check from you, sir.

Uh-oh....

19:36, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 19 using 1d20.  Wis check.

ooc: just, wow.

Elora asks, "What if we went back and got Pious?"

Kal said, "Of course! the thing would be magic and evil and probably cause shingles, too!" Kal hurried off with Elora to find the cleric and engage him in the search.

Not only does he retrieve Pious, Agrax gets involved, too.

"I've got a good sniffer," she said. "It might help."

So the collective begin their search under Pious critical eye; each take a portion of the ledge and the small grotto beyond it. True to her word, the Lady Gnoll lets out a series of yips that sound a warning. Her eyes narrow on a particular spot; suddenly she rushes toward a spot near the back - at the same time all of you note movement from the back of the cave!

The troll looks like nothing so much like a large, translucent icicle, but moves with a sudden quickness as it attempts to flee! It is heading straight for ledge and the water below!

ooc: there are four of you. The troll doesn't look like its going parlay. You have one shot at this: you can either go for a kill or you can try to grapple. In it's hands is a large tome!

Good luck!
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:43, Fri 07 Aug 2020.

Not to delay but how "large"? If you'll recall, Kal isn't all that big!

It's stands roughly 8.5 feet tall.

Ah.... attack it is!!

Attacking with his sword, Kal managed to get somewhat close to the fleeing being...

19:57, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 7 using 1d20+1.  Hit troll.

The troll easily dodges Kal's effort, only to find itself in direct line with Elora whose hands are spread before her: Cast Burning hands. Direct hit!

The effect is terrible to behold: the troll immediately begins to melt, its form running in similar fashion as one might see on a burn victim. In but moments, the troll is no more.

A feeling of relief washes over you. Elora squeals in glee...then she looks for spellbook. (uh oh...)!

I will roll a save vs. fire: must score a 13 or higher. Here's how I play spell book: if you make the save, you're good to go. If not, then I base the damage on a curve. In this case, 13 or higher is my target save, If roll a 12, I fail, and you lose half the first level spells. If I roll 10-11 you lose all first level spells.

If I roll 8-9 you lose half the 2nd level spells

If I roll below an 8, the the entire  spell book is destroyed. Fingers crossed.

07:05, Today: Stormbringer, on behalf of Kalmus the Grey, rolled 15 using 1d20 ((15)).

You're welcome. LOL.

Damn icicle trolls!! Kal swung again, (woohoo!)

22:00, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 14 using 1d12+3.

22:00, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 17 using 1d20+1.

22:00, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 9 using 1d20+1.

The ice troll is dead, it's form melting like ice in the desert. Drifts of steam linger as the party gathers together over the spell book. The excitement is palpable.

ooc: I'll draw up the spellbook's contents tonight or tomorrow. Congrats!

ooc: I saw wish, Meteor Swarm and Shapechange in my brief glance...

wonder what else is within???

It will be 1-3 level spells. Much like you, I like the esoteric type of spells. Thrilled with Rope Trick than Ahren got. Love that spell.

I'll have something for you today.

No rush, I am wiped out... thanks for DMing!!

You're welcome! LOL. As for the other game, Helia's doing Helia things again. I think I'm in love...

with the fat priest????

Threw up in my mouth a little.

No, Helia. I'd be her man slave. LOL.

I keep trying to give her one but she doesn't want it. Thinking she's frigid...

Not likely.

Okay so you've defeated the Ice Troll and grabbed the spellbook. There's a certain beauty to the near arctic conditions, but you are cold and ready to head back. Any last minute items you'd like to accomplish in the great white north?

Yes, we'd like to find the troll's lair and plunder its treasure!

Please and thank you.

the spell book wasn't enough? Tough crowd...LOL.

You search the area for the trolls treasure; it dawns on you that it probably kept the treasure in the stream. Efforts to find it on ledge are fruitless.

Someone's gonna have to take the plunge.

Turning to Elora, Kal said, "Darling, do you have some magic that will keep me warm? Aside from your love, that is." He began to lay a huge fire...

Elora giggles in response.

"Can't wait to see what things look like when you get out of that cold water!"

"Blue and small, I would think, like some tiny faery just in from the cold." He stripped and slipped into the water, seeking the treasure where they had determined it might lie.

"Brrrrrr," he cries out. As quickly as possible, he dives down. As he swims around the clear water, he finds himself facing a troll that is slowly regenerating. Nearby is a small coffer. The troll seems very slow in its movements. The coffer isn't more than he can handle. Breaching the surface, he passes up the coffer to Agrax waiting hands, then jumps out and gets as close to the fire as he can. Elora and Pious both rub him down with their cloaks in effort to warm him up, then help him into his winter gear. He's stuttering from the cold, but passes along the others that it appears the troll isn't dead.

"W-w-we need to k-k-kill it. Spear it. There." Kal pointed out the troll. "B-b-bring near f-f-fire."

Your companions can see the troll in a prismatic sort of way - light reflects and refracts as he heals in kaleidoscope of colors. He's still under water, though; it looks like this type of troll heals slower than other types.

"Spear it! Shoot it! Let it be brought to the fire." Kal exclaimed.

OOC: keep in mind, if you can get it to the surface, your sword will be most effective in killing it.

Just a helpful FYI.

ooc: Indeed, first I wanted them to get it to the surface while Kal tries to find his pecker. That was cold!!

Agrax studies the water, readies her halberd. Holding it like a spear fisher, she launches the weapon downward at an angle for best effect.

It's a good try, but she doesn't quite account for enough of an angle. Still, she has the lanyard around her wrist and pulls weapon out of the water.

For her part, Elora casts two magic missiles which total 8pts of damage. The troll looks nearly spent. As Pious begins to chant a blessing, the creature leaps out of the water and attacks Kalmus with two claws. The beastie tags you for 7pts of damage, but you got him out of the water. You're attack, Kalmus!

22:56, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 15 using 1d12+3.

22:56, Today: Kalmus the Grey rolled 21 using 1d20+1.

WOOOOHOOOOO!!!!

remind me, double TOTAL damage or just die damage? That's 27 or 30 depending!!!

The die roller loves me, quick more combat before it recovers.

Double D, Brother. Elora just got wet. You'll get some leg for sure. Nicely played!

The troll jumps out of the water and scores two wicked claw attacks. For a moment he thinks he's got you. But not to be outdone, Kal comes back with a burst of fury! Flame ignites along the blade of his sword, and Kal dances to his own tune as he lands a critical blow!

Steam rises. A piercing shriek rends the surrounds. And then, as you watch, the Ice Troll melts into nothingness and is no more.

Your bounty, sirrah: 1600sp, 800gp & the Beginners Spellbook (I've already set you up with that on your character sheet).

OOC: this is fun game. Every time I come back to it we kind of do something different. I've already got the next adventure in my mind. Difficulty goes up a bit...but with greater risk comes greater reward...as they say.

;)

ooc: wow, what now? liches and ghosts? Man eating plants? BLM rioters?

Asking Pious and Agrax to gather the treasures, Kal tried to get warm, dry and dressed. "I was hoping for a gem or magical bauble to reward some very loyal friends, the sort that would stand with me against a troll!

"My book was enhanced, we've defeated a great evil, keep the treasure for yourselves. I can trust you with my lives, it's proper that you have something to show how deeply I appreciate that."

Once dry and somewhat warm, Kal leads them back towards the village and a meeting with the Beldame.

You don't really get warm until you return to Winter's Home. Once there, you make your way to the Men's Cloister, but instead of Olaf, you come across Nikoli, Olaf's second. "What's yer business?" he asks.

"We're staying here, I'm Kalmus the Grey, running an errand for the Beldame."

Nikoli snorts.

"Your actually staying at Whiskey Jacks. This lodging is for members. I don't see a card with you name on it. Might wanna get with Olaf on that when he comes back...if you're interested in joining."

ooc: Wait, why am I here? Thought I was going to talk to the Beldame??

Recall: The Beldame invites you. I'm getting there, though. Nikoli is just another introduction to the place.

But if we're staying elsewhere...??

"What's involved in joining? Why would I want to join? Forgive me, we're still quite new here."

"I see you carry sword. That's a good start. Being a part of the Men's Cloister means you spend one day a week cleaning up the place, in rotations. Of course, you don't have to join, and if I might be so bold to say, you have an air of magic that surrounds you. We get enough of that with the women of the Coven.

"Better, I think, if you stay at Whiskey Jacks until Olaf gets back. Unless you're really keen on joining."

Nikoli offers a blunt smirk at the suggestion.

=====================================================================================

Moving things along: Olaf arrives at Whiskey Jacks about an hour later. With him is the Beldame, an expectant look upon her face.

"Well, were you successful?" she asked.

Kal produced the book with a smirk. "We punctured the troll while we were at it then burned it. It melted, I didn't think it would melt but it sort of fits with an ice troll."

The Beldame is delighted. "Tell me everything, down to the last detail!"

There seems a bit of bloodlust in her eyes. Olaf, on the other hand, has little to say, though his blue eyes shimmer as you tell the tale.

"While I don't have Elora's gifts, I'll try. We moved towards the area in which we thought the monster might lair and found an unfrozen waterfall. Seeing that it was not easy to approach, we sought to lure it out. It smacked me around a bit but we put it down and it fell into the stream below.

"Once the book was secured, I striped down to my skivvies to see if there were other treasures. The thing was healing, reconstituting itself before my eyes! Leaping out of the water, I yelled for my companions and grabbed my blade. They held it off while I landed a fatal blow on the thing, melting it away with fire.

"We found some small treasure below but the book, ah, the book was the prize and now, we've brought it to  you."

He paused, "In the interest of detail, I am going to order a hot bath and get a hot rock and toss it in to thaw my pecker."

The Beldame is delighted by the tale. You note she wears a small haversack at her waist. She pulls a compact spellbook and hands it to Kal.

"I've transcribed a number of spells into this travel tome for you as the final part of our agreement. My thanks again. You all are welcome to stay as long as you like, though you are southlanders and that usually doesn't translate very well."

ooc: recall the statues: you may want to trade them for coin or gems before you leave.

"You have my gratitude as well, Beldame. Thank you for the book.

"Ah, while we're here, we had some loot from the crypt in which that thing tried to hire us to come here and snatch that tome for him. Is there somewhere we can sell or trade these things? We're certain no one will come looking for it, otherwise, they would have just come themselves."

ooc: worth a shot!

The Beldame smells a bargain.

"Let me see these statuettes," she said. "I like good art as much as the next woman."

Elora and Agrax bring forth the statuettes, showing each in turn:

1- a naked nymph pouring water into an urn.

2- a sword set before a shield.

3- a griffon in flight.

4- a young boy looking thoughtfully at his dog.

"I love them," the Beldame cries. "I want all of them! How much would each cost?"

OOC: I cannot find the prices, went through ooc as well. Didn't record them on the CS, do you have it handy?

They are all masterwork, each would fetch about 500g in a big market. This is not a big market, obviously, but you might earn a reputation for fair dealing if you were willing to take the hit on price. The opposite's true as well, you might leave a negative impression on the Beldame.

ooc: let's keep it friendly!

"We think they're worth around 500 gold or so each but you have taken a shine to them and we've been more than fairly compensated for the troll, would you give oh, say 400 each?"

The Beldame is certainly one of a kind. She studies you, then the pieces, and does so multiple times. It's patently obvious that she knows exactly what she's looking at, but doesn't want to spend any more than she has to. Finally she sighs. "Alright, Kalmus. You win. 400g it is!"

1600 and she pays in gems: Bloodstone worth 100g apiece - unless you want to tote around a chest full of gold. :)

"Glad we could come to a fair sum! My thanks, Beldame, those gems will be far lighter headed south than the statues."

The Beldame is already considering where she's going to put each statue. In the background, you hear Olaf suggesting the sword and shield sculpture for the Men's Cloister.

"Yes, I think that fits," The Beldame said. "Hang it on a shelf where visitors can see it clearly."

As Olaf and The Beldame dicker, Kal and company head to Whiskey Jacks for food and a night of sleep.

OOC: Give me some suggestions for your next adventure. I do have something in mind, but this is your adventure, and I don't want to preempt what you want to do. Otherwise we'll go with my thoughts.

ooc: open to suggestion. Part of me wants to go burn that ruin we first entered and pull it  down on that thing but maybe later for that. I like the Elora angle if she can hang around, woman like that doesn't seem like one that would be loved and left nor should she be. Maybe wander the roads a bit, stay in some inns, sing for our supper, drift south and learn about the land? Dunno, I hadn't given it  much thought!

W

Okay, I'm gonna need a day or two to get my shit together, but I have something that will be both challenging and rewarding...if you survive!

In the meantime, you have a decent dinner and a quiet night's sleep until you feel a pat on your shoulder, followed by a naughty laugh.

"Kal?"

When you mumble in reply, she pokes you with a finger with a little more intensity.

"Kal!" she whispers again. "I wanna!"

There's a certain urgency in her tone...

Kal woke enough to embrace Elora. "I will do what I can. Come here, you!" Tired and aching, Kal knew that the hero's duty was not done until the heroine was properly bedded and satisfied!

"Good man," she purred. Then she climbed on top and began nuzzling his ear...among other things.