OOC: As requested:

22:06, Today: Rhydd Maldhon rolled 14 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 9,5.  Survival Check w/ Advantage.

Stormheart had made a quick stop for supplies and some meat for the owlbears. They might have hunted along the way, but worried about taking the time, mostly.

He lead the way from town, not out of arrogance, just because he had been close to where they were going recently and knew where he was going. The cold didn't bother him, like most Goliaths, but neither did the snow that much either really.

He also grew a little bit more relaxed and content as soon as they stepped outside of the town, which grew more pronounced the farther away from 'civilization', such as it was. Or maybe not relaxed, as he was alert and mindful, but...more in his element.

08:23, Today: Stormheart rolled 24 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only.  Survival (new & improved with advantage).

Righty, a visit to the general store warrants its own segment. We'll rewind the clock a tad, so those Survival rolls will be put on hold.

---

Caer-Konig had one, singular modest shop which imported most of what the town needed from Bryn Shander. The former-ranger, a man Rhydd knew as Atenas Swift who was many times his senior, had never had a knack for paperwork, but what was one to do when old age settled in and your knees called it quits on your behalf? He ran the shop, which he'd called the Frozenfar Expeditions the best he could, and his experience in the wilderness had him know what was quality wares. Luckily he had company in his Dwarven wife Jarthra.

It was situated a stone throw away from the town itself, for Atenas kept sled dogs. They barked as they recognized Rhydd from the small sheds they were tethered to in pairs, pulling on them until they reeled. Sled dogs were lively. One, Arker, who was the oldest and the leader of the pack, was the odd one among them – he remained still and watchful as he sat atop his allotted wooden block, tethered on his lonesome.

"Out here again?" Atenas called out to Rhydd as he emerged from his shop to meet the arrivals he'd spied from his window. "I thought we'd gotten rid of you when you fled south . . . g'day," he nodded toward Stormheart and Khulekani. Jarthra emerged behind him, slower into her outerwear. "Rhydd! What a surprise!" she beamed, as was typical of her.

---

Anyone who greets the dogs can give me a Perception check, alternatively Insight.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:29, Thu 14 Sept 2023.

Stormheart grinned widely at Rhydd as he heard the dogs. "Dogs! I like dogs!"

It put a spring in his step and he hurried forward. He did hesitate when he saw the person emerge from the store and greet Rhydd. He slowed to a halt, glancing between - and clearly torn between - the dogs and the man as well as the emerging woman.

Finally, he gave a bow of his head to two owners. "Greetings! I am Stormheart. It is wonderful to meet you both."

He hesitated another moment, gesturing towards the dogs, "If it's okay? I'll be right back.", before then continuing on towards the dogs. He smiled widely again and got close enough for them to be able to smell him and get used to him, kneeling down and allowing them to approach him if they wished. "look at you, all so beautiful!"

14:34, Today: Stormheart rolled 15 using 1d20+7.  Perception.

"Just like a bad copper-piece," Rhydd chuckled in response to Jathra's warm greeting, "turning up just when you thought that you were well-rid of me."

"And g'day to you, as well, Atenas," he said, turning to the old ranger. "But, mind, 'fled' is such a judgmental, nasty-sounding word. I much refer 'served as a much-needed guide for some clueless Southrons'."

Turning to his companions, the archer kept speaking -- granted, 'twas a bit of an oddity for one who was generally a man of few words. "Stormheart, you now know. This other fair lass is Khulekani Kumalo, a squire in service to the Radiant Heart Axillary."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 15:37, Sat 16 Sept 2023.

"Go on ahead," Atenas nodded Stormheart's way. "Jarthra is just about to take some of them on a ride. They'll get rather loud."

It was clear their excitement to greet a new person was compounded by the promise of exercise. Most of the Dogs eagerly approached Stormheart. The pack leader's attitude, however, was due to more than just steadfast vigilance. He was injured.¹

Farwalker arrived a moment later after having stayed behind with Mallory to ensure the bodies were properly wrapped and stored. A funeral could be arranged later, as she doubted either of them would have wanted a Goliath's. For those who died among the clan, it was one of pure duty and solemn silence for those who remembered them. There was no burial – the corpse was carried away and left out somewhere for the carrions to feast upon. It was the same for the Goliaths who had the dignity to expire in life.

"I meant no ill," Atenas strode to clasp Rhydd's hand in comradery. "I would say having someone like you down there would be like shooting sparrows with ballistas . . . now what can we do you for?"

---

¹ Stormheart's Perception check on the Dogs [15]: The old Dog had one eye shut and a myriad of scars, some new, but most of them old. When ruffling his fur, Stormheart could confirm by their size and shape they were likely from the fangs and claws of his fellow Dogs.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:39, Sat 16 Sept 2023.

In reply to DM Bears (msg # 7):

Rhydd puffed out his cheeks in response to Atenas' inquiry. "Well, there seem to be problems aplenty these days, but Stormheart," here the archer turned and motioned towards the big Goliath, who had stepped over to greet the sled dogs, "tells me that you have been having some issues with Owlbears, hereabouts."

"We stopped here for some supplies before heading out into the Wilds."

"Hmm," Atenas pondered. "Jarthra mentioned something like that, but frankly I can't keep up. Running shop is taking up all of my time, even with as slow as it's been as of late. I've left the roving to Jarthra." He nodded toward his wife who was busy getting all the reins for the Dogs ready. "But supplies I can get you. What do you need?" He spoke a bit louder so Stormheart also would hear.

Some of the Dogs became disinterested in Stormheart and sat to howl. They were too numerous to all be chosen for a ride, so they had to wait in turn for Jarthra to come and select the lucky winners.

---

Stormheart's Animal Handling into the Dog's wounds [24!]: This was something that happened from time to time among packs of wild animals. The older Dog, which seemed healthy and capable enough, was being ganged up on either in a contest of leadership or simply for an outlet for aggression. Sled Dogs didn't always adhere to a structure one would expect to find in packs of Wolves; their 'leadership' alternated and was heavily predicated on who was the sled's frontrunner, a role which usually rotated between a select few of the Dogs.

It was complex, in other words.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:56, Sun 17 Sept 2023.

Stormheart slowly changed from joyful exuberance as he petted and played with the dogs to a concerned frown. After a long moment, he turned to look at the two owners. "Pardon me, I don't mean to intrude on your...business or lives but..." He hesitated and then pushed on, "Are you aware of this dog's injuries and how they happened? It looks like they are from the other dogs ganging up on him. Most of these are older wounds and I cannot heal them at this point." He stepped back, "My apologies. I should not impose myself or my views."

He stepped towards Atenas as the dogs started to howl. "Yes, I am going to see about helping the owlbears and ensuring that they aren't a danger to others as well if possible. And the whale ferry after that if I can." He hesitated and then spoke once more, gesturing at himself. "I am afraid, however, I do not have money at this time. My money was recently...lost during a journey I was forced on. As you can see, I have but the clothes on my back and my armor really." He touched his holy symbol. "And this."

He looked down and sighed. "The only three things I would really need - anything else I can manage without and if they can't be provided I will make do looking for game along the way - would be rations, meat for the owlbears and a waterskin." Small pause. "Unless you have a shield available." He looked up. "If you do see your way to helping me, I will try to pay you back as soon as I am able. If you do not or cannot, please know that I understand and do not judge you. I know that Icewind Dale can be a harsh place enough without charity and you don't know me."

"Aye," Jarthra sighed in earnest, "Wee Arker's had a rough go of it as of late. He's become more resigned, even though he's as strong as ever. He just . . . let's it happen." She walked up to pat his head before continuing on to strap up a different dog. "We've tried preventing it, but when we're out riding watching five dogs at a time is much for one person, so there's been the occasional situation while resting. Last one two days ago, but it wasn't a bad one, thankfully. Can't leave him here, either, poor fellar. Needs his trips just as much as the rest."

Upon listening to Stormheart's request, Atenas went to the cabin. "Hold on, let me check the ol' iventory . . ." He returned later with the requested items – some jerky, some stockfish, and a bag with a larger piece of discard meat, specifically rib, frozen solid. "Rations aren't going to be enough for an Owlbear. Thankfully we're saving everything these days." On his back was slung a wooden shield of Dwarven make. A 'War-Door' as they called it. It ran the height of a typical Dwarf, but it barely reached Stormheart's hip. "Might this do? If not, I'd talk with the Town Speaker and hear what he's got in the armory. There's also a Master Smith in town now if you're looking for something more tailored, but if you've no coin I can't promise how far you'll get."

He handed Stormheart everything. "Take it. The good you do out there is payment enough for us. And let us know if there's anything else."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:23, Tue 19 Sept 2023.

Khulekani bowed as Rhydd made the introductions to the towering Goliath. It seemed that Icewind Dale held a fair number of the mountainous giantfolk. Then again, the Spine of the World was not far away. Perhaps there were tribes up there that she was not aware of, that made it down from time to time.

"Forgive me, Master Stormheart, but if I might make a suggestion? Dwarvencraft items make for fine tools of war. However, based on your sheer size, might I suggest visiting a carpenter if you do not have the time to wait for a smith to craft you an appropriately sized metal shield. A heavy oak door, made to protect an inn, or other domicile, would make an excellent kite shield for you..." she suggested with a small shrug and a warm smile.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:19, Tue 19 Sept 2023.

Stormheart gave a nod to Jarthra. "I understand, I suppose." He smiled at her, though there was a tinge of sadness to it. "I do not like to see any animal suffer if I can help it, but in this case...I can't. It is the nature of things."

After Atenas came back out, the Goliath made a face of someone who was feeling genuine heartfelt warmth almost to the point of being overwhelmed at the moment. It took him a moment to speak once more. "I will not forget your kindness. I am a cleric, so if either of you, or your dogs, need healing or anything I can do, do not hesitate to let me know." He smiled and waggled one finger. "And do not think I won't share my bounty with you once I...have bounty to share once more." He let out a chuckle.

He quickly packed things away but mouthed the word "war door" with amusement. He glanced at Khulekani with a thoughtful look. "That...is not a bad idea. I would not have thought of that. A door. A war door of my own!" He boomed a laugh even as he hefted the current shield, shaking it a bit, turning it this way and that. "Though...for now, this will do nicely."

He smiled still and gave a bow to the shop owners. He turned to his two companions. "Have you need of anything, or are we ready to depart?"

Rhydd smiled at Khulekani's and Stormheart's mention of a "war door". "May it serve you well," he said to the Goliath.

"I'll take a week's worth of field rations," Rhydd replied, looking from Stormheart to Atenas, and opening his coin-pouch.

"Normally, I would not bother with such tasteless victuals. A group such ourselves could hunt for our dinner, I feel certain."

"But at the moment, with the weather being so uncertain . . ." the outdoorsman shrugged.

"I could see a blizzard blowing in, and us spending time hunkered down in a snow cave. Best to be prepared for that sort of thing, just in case."

---

OOC: I am the world's worst when it comes to "bean-counting" and keeping my PC's Character Sheet updated. Perhaps I was an accountant in a previous life, and spent way too much time toiling over ledger-books. :)

For example, Rhydd's Character Sheet shows that he has 23 GP and assorted silvers and coppers on hand. I'm pretty sure that he has more than that, but even if we stick with what is listed, it should be enough to buy some field rations.

OOC: Relevant mention in this case, as Mallory's been trusted with keeping Rhydd's ledgers for him both in-and-out of game.  He's got plenty for basic supply purchases.

Rhydd's Funds
  Current Money         :   451 GP, 7 SP, 5 CP
This message was last edited by the player at 20:09, Tue 19 Sept 2023.

In reply to Mallory Bonheur (msg # 15):

OOC: Thanks, Mallory. I figured that you were on the job (bean-counting), but I wasn't sure whether you were keeping an eye on this thread. If you weren't, I didn't want to bother you. :)

PS. Note to self: Update Rhydd's Character Sheet!

"Skill alone can't make the impossible possible, but then again I find myself surprised thinking about what we managed to do out there . . ." Atenas said after giving Rhydd the requested rations, refusing any coin for it. "The Dale isn't as it used to be. Take care, be vigilant. And Rhydd, a word, if you would," he nodded for them both to take a walk away from the others.

"Have you heard from Hawk?" Meaning, of course, Eyes-of-the-Hawk. "She paid us a visit a Tenday-and-some ago, warning us of . . . things. She warned us of the Duergar close by and that they were the least of our concerns. Something called Chardalyn has driven certain folk mad, not just the Duergar, but the Regheds too. And Halvdan¹. She asked of us something we could not do. Well, something I couldn't do. Jarthra wasn't willing, bless her heart." He paused for a moment, drawing in the frigid air. "That's a lie. I could do it, knees be damned. But I am afraid, Rhydd. I am a coward and I am afraid. I've started to tremble," he held out a gloved hand, shoving significant tremors. "I am haunted by nightmares. The sun hasn't risen for two years and it's only a matter of time before something truly, truly terrible happens . . ."

---

¹ A Verbeeg – a type of Giant-kin referred to as Human Behemoths due to their resemblance to Humans – who was indicted into Eyes-of-the-Hawk's band of rangers. Stormheart would have interacted with him at some point too. A stoic, immensely intelligent roamer who had none of the destructive qualities typical of the Frost Giants who once ruled the region.

Rhydd:

OOC: I am the world's worst when it comes to "bean-counting" and keeping my PC's Character Sheet updated. Perhaps I was an accountant in a previous life, and spent way too much time toiling over ledger-books. :)

This is precisely how Atenas feels running a shoppe. :)
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:24, Tue 19 Sept 2023.

---

Rhydd's Nature check to see what he knows of Chardalyn [2]: Rhydd may or may not have heard the term 'Chardalyn' before. It was a mineral. Maybe. Dwarves would know, not rangers.

Rhydd shook his head. "Nay," he replied, "I have neither seen nor heard of Hawk recently. Although our group has been on the move, and it could be that we have not crossed paths as of late."

Truth be told, it surprised the archer to see Atenas so . . . jittery. It seemed that between Hawk's warnings, the gloomy, blustery weather, and all the various signs that pointed to Trouble on the horizon . . . well, 'twas easy to see how a man could get his nose out of joint.

~But, still . . . it bodes ill that heretofore steady men are starting to crack under the pressure, to . . . jump at shadows.~

"Not to worry," he said, "if push comes to shove, you'll be just as stalwart as e'er you were. You'll see." Rhydd hoped that he was right.

He cleared his throat and asked of his erstwhile brother-in-arms, "What is this thing that Hawk asked of you?"

Atenas hesitated as he stopped and put his trembling hands back into the pockets of his coat. The slopes of Caer-Konig were brilliant this afternoon, sparkling in the starlight. It was a resplendent beauty, though a cursed one. The howls of the dogs, whom Jarthra had mostly rounded up and fastened to the sled, rang in the distance. "She wanted help tracking down Halvdan, primarily," he eventually said, sighing. "He was the best of us and the things she said he'd done . . ." Atenas swallowed as a lump swelled in his throat. "I dare not even speak them."

"Hawk is overwhelmed. It looked like she hadn't rested for months," he continued. "We are all overwhelmed, frankly. However, if you find it in yourself, I'd go and seek her. It might take some searching – she's good at covering her tracks – but if anyone can find her, it'll be you."

Rhydd's eyebrows rose up in surprise at Atenas' response about what Hawk had requested. "Tracking down Halvdan?"

"To what end?"

"I don't know," Atenas answered. "But going by the way she spoke of him I don't think it was for a friendly catch-up over a cup of tea."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:16, Fri 22 Sept 2023.

"Troubling," Rhydd muttered, "with respect to Hawk and Halvdan, both."

"Did Hawk give any indication of where she might search?"

Atenas tilted his head. "Yes and no. She said that he's been in Lonelywood and that he's moved further south," Atenas said, "but now she's headed back to Lonelywood. Maybe she changed her mind about confronting him singlehandedly."

Stormheart tried very hard not to listen in to the private conversation between Atenas and Rhydd off to the side. He busied himself with making everything was put away and balanced for movement before they were to take off.

Wanting to keep his mind and ears occupied, he looked at Khulekani. "If I may ask, have you been in Icewind Dale very long? Do you like it here or find it difficult?"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:39, Wed 27 Sept 2023.

In reply to DM Bears (msg # 24):

"Lonelywood . . . that's very helpful," Rhydd replied. "Thank you."

"If circumstances allow, I'd like to try and find Hawk. I get the feeling that . . . mayhap she is trying to take on too much, by herself."

"She is better-suited than most to accomplish things without assistance. But, still, I would welcome the opportunity to speak with her."