DM Dr Evil's Reign of Winter AP (with PFS Credit)

Game Master DM DoctorEvil

Fleeing the Portal Map

Loot Tracker


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15 Erastus 4714, Evening

It is hot. Hotter than your northern blood can bear sometimes. The summer sun of the southern climes of Taldor in midsummer is enough to drive anyone indoors looking for a drink, and there you find yourselves. In the sleepy village of Heldren, near the contested border between Taldor and Qadira. No more than a wide spot on the road really, in fact the town doesn't even boast a real inn.

The Silver Stoat, where you find yourself, is what passes for a tavern in Heldren, and if there are strangers about at night, and they don't look to Qadirian or suspicious, the tavern-keeps (Menander and Kale Garimos by name) will allow them to bunk on the floor near the fire.

The coach road from the Taldan capital of Oppara to the fortified city of Zimar passes through this sleepy village, but the coach rarely stops here. Tonight, however is an exception.

The tavern is abuzz with the news that the coach has stopped, and not just any coach either. "It's a noblewoman, I hear tell. She's got a troop o' soldier wit' her as well, so I reckon she must be important." says Menander to whoever will listen. "One o' their horses came up lame, so they stopped at Sophia's livery to trade 'em out. I hope she bargains right mean fer a deal. What other choice do they have a'fore setting off through the Border Woods to Zimar, eh?'

The large bald man chuckles, wiping glasses dry. A few other townsfolk drink in the place, no more than a dozen, and Menander's wife, Kale is busy in the kitchen seeing to dinner, which begins to smell quite good out in the common room.

From here, tell about how you came to Heldren in Midsummer, what puts you in the Silver Stoat, and pick up the action and story from there. I did put up a map of Heldren and the key in the Campaign info tab. If you are a local, you may know some or all of these places, if you are new in town, you can at least read the signs. You can investigate at your leisure.


Male Half Elf Bard (Arcane Duelist) 1 | HP: 10/10 | AC: 15 FF:14 T:11 | F:+3 R: +3 W:+1 | Init:+3 | Perc: +5

It had been both a festive and a sad day for Andras and his family. Today his older brother and his brother's wife had said their good byes to the family before they'd move up north and west, to the Lands of the Linnorm Kings. The fact that his brother's wife had recently discovered she was pregnant was all the more reason to be sad for his parents because now they wouldn't be able to see their first grandchild as much as they would have liked.

Only an hour ago they had left. Both riding heavy horses while they made their way to Oppara where they would join a trade caravan headed for Almas in Andoren from where they'd travel further by boat. Andras pitied any bandit who figured they'd be able to mug the two of them for both were retired Ulfen Guards and despite having only one hand his brother still was a great warrior.

He himself was still stuck here in the south. He hadn't even made to be fully recognized as one of the Ulfen Guard. That wasn't something to worry about tonight though, tonight he'd busy himself with the beer in front of him and it's brothers who would surely follow after. His father just retired for the night after sharing a few so now he was all alone with his drink. Not a bad place to be, especially if you were in a homely place like the Stoat.

The Exchange

Human Rogue 2 DEAD

Talon Thief-taker removes his feet from the table in the corner. He is slightly taller than average, athletic and thin, with dark hair and several visible scars. Though his gray eyes frequently examine the Silver Stoat's other occupants, there is no life in them.

Talon is a man who usually has a plan, but who has reached a dead end. He had followed the trail of the fugitive, a human with long, slicked back blonde hair and a lazy eye, for the last month.

Egan.

His last clue brought him to the Silver Stoat, and Talon had felt lucky to find the small tavern's location. But after spending the four days in this hamlet, Talon is without a trail.

It didn't help that he had lost a fortune gambling in Oppara a few weeks back. Now funds are tight, with no trail to follow.

News of the noblewoman stirs him. He sets aside his drink and moves like a cat toward the door. Travelers means news.

He opens the door and looks to the street, his eyes moving quickly but somehow still devoid of life.

Livery next door. Escape to alley at back of Stoat or carpenter across street. Five villagers, none of them armed.


Beams of light shone through the windows and the unfastened shutters. casting drops of light upon the floor, tables and patrons. Conversations were born quickly here and some died just as quickly. The only constant was the sound of foot steps that rang across the floor, as the maids carried the orders of the various customers. Some corners ignored the state of most of the inn; far from the light and eerily quiet. Lars wasn't in one of those corners, he sat at one of the tables that was strangely half covered in sun light, causing his shadow to be painted on the wooden canvas he sat at.

A maid cut her way to his table and placed a plate in front of him, he gave her a smile, before he grabbed the loaf of bread that was given to him and began wolfing it down. He appeared to be too concerned with his food to notice what was spoken around him but he heard the talk of the noble woman and it made him grin...in another time and another place, he might have seen the arrival of a noble as an opportunity to fill his starving pouch of coins with gold, but he dared not go beyond considering the matter, he didn't need the attention, what he did need was several arcane users and several pirates to kindly forget about him Yes, Lars they'll just forget about you and let you go on your merry way, Captain Clancy will even give you the loot you've stolen from him for all the trouble he put you through Lars erased most signs of the existence of the bread he had in his hand, only leaving crumbs littered on the plate and table.

He looked about, with a slight bored expression and then he noticed someone doing the same, and for a moment wondered if he should worry or not Doesn't look like a pirate, unless either side started hiring bounty hunters The man hasn't acted yet, so Lars knew that there was no wisdom in acting either, if this stranger was truly after him then he would know, and a lot sooner than he would have liked.

Sovereign Court

female Human (Ulfen) Barbarian (invulRager)2
Spoiler:
| AC 17(15) T 11 (9) FF 13 (16) | HP 24/24(28/1728) | F +5(+9)R +1(3) W +1(+5) | Init +1 | Perc +6 DR 1/-

It had been a hard day in the dog kennel. One of her b#*%#es had given birth to a new litter and 7 little puppys had to be taken care off. Four of the puppys were healthy ones, but the other three.... time would tell. After a thorough bath in the waterbarrel she needed a smoke. And an ale. Quite desperatly. With a quick whistle she summoned her little beauty to her side. Time to hit the town.
It was not a far walk and the evening brought desperatly need colder wind. The silver stag looked inviting, like every evening after a hard work. Sitting at her usual place, ordering her usual nightcap, Agatha lit a small cigar and took her first smoke for the day, savoring the burning feeling and leaving the worries of the day behind her.


Male Human Wizard 4| AC 16 T 12 FF 14| HP 30/30 | F +4 R +4 W +5 | Init +2 | Perc +10

After spending a long day on the road traveling from Oppara, Trawets was glad to see the statue of the beautiful woman in the middle of the crossroads of this wide spot in the road. He stopped one of the locals and asked the name of the town. "Heldren" was the reply.

Seeing the tavern, Trawets heads in, the bottom of his wizard robes all dusty and orders a drink and a meal, keeping his ears open for any tales of the strange beasts in the area he was sent to look for by Nethys' high priest in Oppara.

Hearing nothing of beasts except for the horse of the noblewoman who passed him earlier in the day, Trawets decides to talk to the locals. He approaches the bar and asks the barkeeper Who is the statue in the intersection? She's so beautiful one can hardly take her eyes off her.


Two of the noblewoman's guardmen enter the Stoat, grimy and sweaty from a hot day in the Saddle. Both appear to be Ulfen, with long braids of yellow-gold hair flowing down their backs. They have ill-kempt beards and wear longswords at their hip. Both wear the livery of one of the noble houses of Taldor. The soldiers each order an ale from Menander Garimos, and down it quickly, slamming the tankards down as sign for another.

Andras:
You do not recognize them as Ulfen guard, but you know it is fashionable now among the nobility to have their own, lesser, Ulfen guardsmen.

"Best get a move on if we want to clear them woods by nightfall," one says. The other nods in agreement "Her Ladyship's in a helluva hurry after that business in Oppara. She wants to be home in Zimar tonight. Gonna have to make double time now, once that lame horse gets replaced."

They finish up the second, scatter some coins on the table and march out again, bumping into Trawets the wizard as he approaches the bar. With out some much as a "by your leave" they continue out the door as if nothing had happened.

Know Nobility DC 15:
The livery of the guards indicates they work for the House Melanasse, a prominent landholder near Zimar. There was a story that the eldest daughter, Argentea, was to be engaged to one of the cousins of Crown Prince Stavian in Oppara recently.

Know Geography DC 10 or Know Local DC 10:
YOu know that to get to Zimar tonight the coach and soldiers would have to make outstanding time. More likely they will still be on road come nightfall.
.

Looking outside, Talon sees the three wagons of the coach caravan and about a dozen soldiers and hangers on. The captain of the guard, dressed in an exquisite breastplate, is angrily in discussions with the owner of the livery. The curtained windows of the main coach are drawn. A thankfully cool breeze from the southwest blows on Talon's face, easing some of the heat of the day.

Looking up, he sees a pile of storm clouds building to the southwest, blotting out the setting sun.

Know Nature DC 15:
Storms in this area generally move from east to west, and the prevailing winds are from the north or south. A storm building to the southwest with the cool wind coming from that direction, would be highly unusual.

As Trawets inquires to the barkeep about the statuary in the road, he nods. Ayuh, the statue there is right purty. I reckon no one can say who 'tis, 'cept fer Old Mother Theodora, mebbe, an' I don't put much stock in her hocus-pocus no how.

That lady's been here since I bin in town, and that's quite a stitch, yeh ken? Elven woman, I reckon she is, but don't rightly know. Yeh drinking something stranger?"

Sovereign Court

female Human (Ulfen) Barbarian (invulRager)2
Spoiler:
| AC 17(15) T 11 (9) FF 13 (16) | HP 24/24(28/1728) | F +5(+9)R +1(3) W +1(+5) | Init +1 | Perc +6 DR 1/-

KnowNature: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19
Listening to the guards talk Agatha can do nothing but sigh.My father would be so proud of me.... but I should be content
Rubbing her dogs head she takes another sip from her tankard.


Male Human Wizard 4| AC 16 T 12 FF 14| HP 30/30 | F +4 R +4 W +5 | Init +2 | Perc +10

Know Local: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27

If those guys are thinking of getting to Zimar they are going to be on the road long after nightfall. I'll have another ale please. Have you heard any tales of strange beasts in the area?


Male Half Elf Bard (Arcane Duelist) 1 | HP: 10/10 | AC: 15 FF:14 T:11 | F:+3 R: +3 W:+1 | Init:+3 | Perc: +5

Knowledge Nobility: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19

Posers, just what any noble woman needed.These probably weren't even retired real Ulfen Guard, just some low lifes who wanted in on the money but not the responsibility. That or their blood was too thin, in which case Andras could understand their choice, it was as close to really joining the Guard that they would get.

Still, it was an odd choice. If the eldest would get married to one of the Grand Prince's house then they'd get real Ulfen Guard assigned to them, at least one of them to lead the riff-raff she called guards now.


Female Human Follower Alias

Weary and footsore, Meditrina returned to the tavern, thoroughly disgruntled that her questions to the locals if they knew anything about the strange box had been unanswered. To be fair, she hadn't really expected any new information, but it never hurt anyone to try.

Sweating with her winter gear, Meditrina wondered if she should have timed her journey better...it was hardly practical to bring cold clothes on a trek to the mountains, and then time your journey to pass through Mid-Summer. On a brighter note however, the sun had been shining, and as far as she was concerned, any day the sun was shining, was a good day in principal. Resolving to take off her think heavy gear inside, Meditrina made her way into the Silver Stoat, where she had been lodging for the last few nights.


The barkeep pours an ale for Trawets. "S'our own signature brew, it is. The Three Devils Ale, an' none better this side o'Oppara. Plenty more where it came from, guvn'r, so there is. Beasts, do you say? Don't know nothin' 'bout no beasts in Heldren. Maybe them rangers in the Border Wood deal with 'em from time to time, but the only beast I know s'Ol' Man Dansby's prize bull." He nods to you, and steps into the kitchen to help Kale with the dinner fare.

Soon, all in the Inn are served with a savory, thick stew and trenchers of homemade bread. The food is wholesome and filling and makes the dreary life in Heldren almost worthwhile.

Not long after, the sound of the noblewoman's entourage leaving the village fills the air, and a few more townspeople wander in. The door to the inn opens, and the breeze which felt so cool a few hours ago, is now more of a gale blowing cold.

A dwarf with a well-trimmed beard and jeweled chain enters along with a willowy elven woman. The woman shivers for a moment and they take seat near the hearth. "Oy, Menander!" the dwarf calls. "How about a fire here? The wind bites to the bone! Who would've thought a chill like this for Midsummer, eh?"

As you eat dinner, the sun begins to set, and you can feel the temperature in the inn drop several degrees, the wind outside howling along.

Ol' Theodora said it'd be an unseasonable summer. I guess that old bat knows her stuff." grumbles Menander as he begins to build a fire in the hearth.


Female Human Follower Alias

"Here, let me held you with that", Meditrina offers, aware that its the least she could do while she's staying here. Muttering under her breath, she slides her hands closer to the hearth, creating a light blaze in no time.

"Theodora?", she asks, looking curiously at Menander.


Menander stands back impressed by the flame ability of Meditrina. "Reckon you'd be a stranger in these parts, eh miss? Not every'un can do that trick, I ken. I say thank ya. If it's the Weird Woman yer askin' 'bout, I can tell yeh she's older than them hills yonder, and twice as odd. Lives in a litte hut on the edge o' town, she do, and sells cures and love potions to them in the village as believe in her witchery. Some say she tells fortunes with stones or cards too. I ain't one to follow none o' that nonsense. Straight as an arrow wit' ol Deadeye, I am. The missus too, say thank ya."

He gets up from the now burning fire, and wipes his hands on his apron spreading ashy smudges all over it. "Weather is sumpin else, eh? So hot today, and now this cold. Strange days, I say. Must be some Qadiran plot, I say."


Just as he got up, pushing the chair, causing it to let out a light screech as its legs scratched against the floor, Lars noticed a flame dominate the fireplace without any prior warning Was going to get my coat, but this should do as well He walked to the source of warmth, his facing turning from let to right; his mistrust lingering even when he was being plagued by the icy knives of the cold weather. Once within reach of the flames warmth and light, Lars sat down casually, his hands holding the meal that was given to them before the sudden cold snuck up on them.

"The red head brings the spark of flame with her, eh?" Lars commented before taking a bite of the new loaf of bread "Did someone make a song about that?" He asked out-loud to no one in particular after swallowing.

"You'll have to excuse my lack of manners" Lars' eyes focused on Meditrina "My name is Lars, your new here aren't you? You'll find this inn to be very inviting...although I am sure Menander is sick of having me for so long" He gave the innkeeper an enigmatic smile.


Male Human Wizard 4| AC 16 T 12 FF 14| HP 30/30 | F +4 R +4 W +5 | Init +2 | Perc +10

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14

I didn't quite catch what you cast there, but that is my style of fire lighting! My name is Trawets Aarock, devotee of Nethys, at your service

Sovereign Court

female Human (Ulfen) Barbarian (invulRager)2
Spoiler:
| AC 17(15) T 11 (9) FF 13 (16) | HP 24/24(28/1728) | F +5(+9)R +1(3) W +1(+5) | Init +1 | Perc +6 DR 1/-

Looking at her thin leather tunic and remembering the long walk home, Agatha walks to the fire to warm herself before walking home. Hearing the man introduce himself she looks at him slyly from the side, wondering where this chap came from.


Male Half Elf Bard (Arcane Duelist) 1 | HP: 10/10 | AC: 15 FF:14 T:11 | F:+3 R: +3 W:+1 | Init:+3 | Perc: +5

Hearing the comment about songs for redheads coming from the fire Andras moves over with his newly filled tankard, "Which song do you mean? There are plenty songs about redheads and fire, both proverbial and literal." He then extends his free hand to the woman, "Andras Skalsson, semi-local braggart and junior member of the Ulfen Guard."

He then looks at the man that just introduced himself as Lars, "I'd offer you a hand as well but I don't seem to have one free at the moment."

The man seemed ever so slightly inebriated, the many beers slowly taking their toll.


Female Human Follower Alias

Meditrina relaxes into an easy smile "You can call me Meditrina, or if thats a bit of a mouthful, you can come up with your own pet names for me - i've dealt with my fair share of mispronunciations before...and that goes for the two of you as well", she remarks as Andras and Trawets also make their own introductions.

At the invitation of Andras, Meditrina takes his hand and inclines her head in a general manner of respect "Pleased to make your acquaintance Andras, I am sure you could sing us many songs", she says, barely concealing a grin.

At Trawets remark, Meditrina laughs lightly, "Actually it was rather unforgivingly showy of me, but in my defence of late I haven't had much opportunity to use my fire magic in quite some time with the lovely weather we have been having", she pauses "Or did have" she trails off, remembering the cold wind that had swept through the tavern a moment ago.

"Anyway, its nice to meet a devotee of Nethys, my own magic comes from Sarenrae...which sadly seems to be a little unpopular in some parts"

Lastly, Meditrina turns to Lars again "You are quite correct, I'm a fairly recent arrival, but Menander and Kale have been very hospitable to me, really, I couldn't have asked for better hosts!"

Apologies for the slightly unstructured post, and apologies again if I accidently missed someone

Sovereign Court

female Human (Ulfen) Barbarian (invulRager)2
Spoiler:
| AC 17(15) T 11 (9) FF 13 (16) | HP 24/24(28/1728) | F +5(+9)R +1(3) W +1(+5) | Init +1 | Perc +6 DR 1/-

Braggert is about right. Father would chew him between taking two dumps and leave him there.
Smiling silently at Andras words and still sipping her ale, Agatha listens intently. Magic.... how wonderful....and how limiting


The night wears on, the cold wind and unseasonable weather keeping many folks from venturing out to the public house, or staying late. Soon it is only those hardy travelers who make the inn floor their bedroom that remain.

Agatha braves the cold weather on her long walk back to her hounds. When they pass the old Dansby place, Asdaal begins growling his hackles raised in warning. He returns at a word from Agatha, but his nose works overtime, and his eyes keep cutting back towards the barn. When she arrives home, she lines the puppies kennel with extra straw to help keep the newborns warm on what is going to be a cold night.

Wearing a woolen nightshirt, Menander bids good night to you all, and he and Kale ascend the stairs to their simple lodgings. They leave plenty of chopped wood to bank the hearth fire.

Shivering a bit, instead of sweltering, you drift off to sleep.

Please continue to interact as you see fit. We will be closing the curtain on this day unless you have any nocturnal adventures in mind, and when the sun rises, more surprises will be in store.

End 15 Erastus 4714


This oocurs prior to the night wearing on.

"Now these are two words I haven't heard together before, A braggart and a guard eh? I'd lose one if I were you, would make life a lot easier" Lars' irises shifted in Andras' direction I'd pick the former He added mentally.

"Hmmm funny how I did not notice you before, I've been here for quite a while...no matter I am pleased to meet you all the same" He replied to the red haired woman, as he got just a bit closer to the flame.

........................................................................

Seeing that the man in the corner had not any moves yet, Lars got up from the fire place, and gave everyone left there a simple wave, before walking off to his room. His footsteps quiet and careful as he looked about himself several times before he made it there.

Once inside the simple room he kicked off his boots, put the buckled dagger under his pillow and lay on the bed in a very lazy manner. He turned his head towards the window for a few moments before feeling a shiver of cold that dragged him out of bid and towards his coat which he layed on top of himself along with the blanket.


Male Human Wizard 4| AC 16 T 12 FF 14| HP 30/30 | F +4 R +4 W +5 | Init +2 | Perc +10

Leaning towards Meditrina and whispering You may not want to mention your fair lady's name as she is outlawed here. The prince blamed her followers for helping his enemies to the south and losing part of southern Taldor. And as for using her gifts be careful as showing her symbol could get you arrested.

He then straightens up and says in a normal voice Thank you very much for the gift of fire, it looks like we'll be needing it tonight. Evelyn come here it's time for sleep.

Upon hearing the name, what you thought was the white fur collar of Trawets' robe uncurls and walks down his outstretched arm to his lap and then curls up next to him as he lays to sleep on his bedroll and blanket.


Male Half Elf Bard (Arcane Duelist) 1 | HP: 10/10 | AC: 15 FF:14 T:11 | F:+3 R: +3 W:+1 | Init:+3 | Perc: +5

"You sound just like my instructors. I sometimes kid that I'm a new thing, the first Ulfen Bragguard, but they don't seem to enjoy the play on words." The were ever so stern during work hours, only to get drunk the moment they were off duty.

He offers the lady a smile, "I'd be happy to sing to you some time, but I fear now isn't the moment. My parents said good bye to one son today, as he and his wife rode off into the sunset, and I doubt they'd like it if I didn't show my face tonight. Mother would only worry and she does that plenty while I'm out on patrol." He offers her a smile as he curtsies before stepping back. "Sleep well and good night."

With that he turns around and steps out the door, heading to the home that never was his home.

Sovereign Court

female Human (Ulfen) Barbarian (invulRager)2
Spoiler:
| AC 17(15) T 11 (9) FF 13 (16) | HP 24/24(28/1728) | F +5(+9)R +1(3) W +1(+5) | Init +1 | Perc +6 DR 1/-

I am assuming the weather stays cold, if not ignore
Waking up early to the barking of Asdaal, Agatha wonders about the frosting cold around the house. Running round to check for the puppys she is relivied that none have frozen. Grabbing them one by one she carries them into the house, close to the hearth. Fixing the winterbox she leads the mother and a smaller ones into the house for shared warmth. After all her other shores are done, she enters the house to see Rolf preparing breakfast. "This cold is so annatural. I am afraid some of our dogs will be hard pressed. They have no winter fur. What shall we do. Shall I go to the city and get some coals? Seeing old Rolf walking out of the hut and smelling the cold, she waits for him to answer. With his consent she grabs her cold weatherfurs, stashed away and now oh so necessary and makes the way back to Heldren as fast as she can.

The Exchange

Human Rogue 2 DEAD

Talon opens his eyes to the new day. He has spent another night on the floor of the Silver Stoat next to the hearth. For the first time since he's been in Heldren, the fire was utilized last night.

His efforts to find more information on this "Egan" fellow he sought had turned up more dead ends.

I've got to get out of here soon.

Talon rolls up his bedroll and places it with his other gear, then orders some breakfast. There had been a lot of newcomers to the tavern the day before. Perhaps he would speak with them today and see if they knew anything. His streak of bad luck had to break soon.


Morning, 16 Erastus 4713, Village of Heldren, Taldor

Talon, Trawets, Meditrinia, and Lars

The air is crisp and cold again in the morning. Instead of mid-summer this feel much more like late fall, or worse. There is a light rime of frost on the grass.

The hearth fire keeps you reasonably comfortable during the night, and you stir around as the inn starts to come to life for the next day. Kale Garimos is up sweeping and mopping the pub floor, and Menander is carrying in more wood for the fire. Breakfast is started and a few town's people begin to wander in.

"Ach, it's cold." moans a huge hulk of a man wearing a woolen cap and an overcoat. "Not sure what has happened to our fair southern sun, but this is quite ridiculous."

Another man, this one dressed and adorned as a priest of Erastil answers "The gods test us, Iskhar, it's how we respond that matters. I have begun asking the sawmill to make sure all the families have enough fuel for fires. Many are likely caught unprepared for this frost and we don't need anyone catching the grippe as a result."

There discussion is interrupted as the door slams open and a fur-draped man, with scraggly beard and hair enters. "Brandy, Kale, and make it a double! I like to caught my death up there in the Border Woods last night....An' then there was this critter...It looked like a weasel, but it was snow white, and as big as horse." The trapper shoots down the brandy and calls for another. "I'm a'headed back up there today to catch that big beast. Think o' the fee that pelt'll bring..." The man actually has snow on his coat, and boots and his story relates that at least 6 inches of snow has fallen up in the woods last night and this morning. "Never seen nothing like it. One moment hotter than Hades, next snow is fallen and me blood is chilled. Something strange afoot up there, no doubt."

The big man speaks up from the back, "We've heard enough o' yer great fish stories, Dryden, yeh sot! No doubt you saw a great weasel in that bottle o' applejack you're always snortin' from, but all o' us know there ain't no creatures that size in the whole Border Woods, I ken. Would've seen 'em long a'fore now if'n there was. Them High Sentinels woulda run 'em out s'well. Ye've been dreamin' or more likely sleepin' one off up yonder."

The men get to bickering, but any of them is available for discussion.


Agatha

Rushing back to town to find some coals for fuel, Agatha spies Old Man Dansby at his barn gate as she passes.

"Hail, dog-keeper!" he says. "Come see and tell me what you make of this!"

He calls you over to the barn, and you can see the side boards of building are splintered as if with an axe. In the stall where Dansby's prize bull normally stands, there is only blood. The blood trail continues out the door and drag marks along the ground indicate the bull was taken out. The trail leads off toward the Border Wood not far to the southwest.

"Someone kilt my Brutus!" says the old man, a tear rolling down his cheek. "Don't know what kinda critter did this work, but lands that bull must weighed 4 or 500 stone. Can't be dragged around by no man, hear me well. I got Brutus murdered and half my crop withering due to this cold. What is happening here? This is the Devil's work, I'll warrant."

Survival DC 15:
There are large sized foot prints, a few of them, in the frost near the barn. A string of green moss hangs from a bent nail at the bashed in entrance of the barn.

The Exchange

Human Rogue 2 DEAD

Talon pulls his cloak about him a little more tightly. He has seen bad weather before, but it always seems more difficult to bear when the weather changes quickly. He can see the snow on the man's coat.

Likely some tall tale, he thinks as he hears about the horse-sized weasel. But the weather is certainly real.

Talon eyes the occupants of the tavern and decides who might best help him. He moves over to Varisian human with the blond hair and long scar on his face. That's you, Lars! :)

"Well met, stranger," he says. "I'm Talon, and I'm looking for some help before I get out of this place." He describes the blonde-haired man with the lazy eye and hopes the stranger has seen him.

Three heavily armed. Adventurers, likely. Four unarmed villagers. Front door, or escape through kitchen.


Andras

As you spend a lonely night in your home near the woods, you also feel the effect of the cold. When you awaken, there is actually a thin layer of snow on the ground and wind continues to bring more drifting gently down, as if it were mid-winter rather than mid-summer.

As you open the door to catch a snowflake on your tongue, you hear the plaintive sounds of distress coming from the southwest -- the direction where the Border Wood thickens into a real forest, rather than the smattering of trees in your area.

Perception DC 12:
You hear a voice, sounds like a young boy, crying "Help me! Help!"


Tales of this beast intrigued Lars, indeed with this cold such a pelt would fetch a handsome sum and his coin pouch demanded such a feast...lest he finds himself with no funds to even pay off his room. He had wanted to inquire more on the matter but then he noticed the dark haired, scarred man who had been eying everyone approaching him And he finally makes his move Thought the former pirate But lets not jump to conclusions here Lars straightened in his seat and made sure there was enough distance between him and the table, if the need to get up unimpeded should arise.

Talon Thief-taker wrote:

"Well met, stranger," he says. "I'm Talon, and I'm looking for some help before I get out of this place." He describes the blonde-haired man with the lazy eye and hopes the stranger has seen him.

At first Lars thought that the man was mocking him, and that this was his idea of capturing him with style, but then the description got a little more specific and last time he checked none of his eyes was lazy "Can't say I've seen such a man" Lars didn't show it but he was relieved that he wasn't the target of this man, but he was half right, this man was looking for someone As long as I am not that poor sap why should I care He smiled at his unexpected guest before taking a swig of the glass of water that was next to him.

"Strange place to be looking for someone like that, this is by far one of the most peaceful places I've ever been in" He said to the hooded man.

The Exchange

Human Rogue 2 DEAD

"Just a bad streak of luck I've ended up here," Talon says. "With the bad weather, seems my luck may be gettin' worse."

Talon takes a seat close to the fire with his back to the wall.

That guy seemed pretty jumpy.

Sovereign Court

female Human (Ulfen) Barbarian (invulRager)2
Spoiler:
| AC 17(15) T 11 (9) FF 13 (16) | HP 24/24(28/1728) | F +5(+9)R +1(3) W +1(+5) | Init +1 | Perc +6 DR 1/-

If I can take 10 I will! Otherwise
Survival: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16
Agatha looks around to check for any hints. The large size prints do not look good and she remembers the bounty-hunter.
"Um. Do you have an axe? This is not a good sign. Go to your house and make it safe. I might get help"
Running to the Tavern she opens it and looks around. "Where is the bounty-hunter? And the Ulfen Guard? We might need your help."


Male Human Wizard 4| AC 16 T 12 FF 14| HP 30/30 | F +4 R +4 W +5 | Init +2 | Perc +10

Trawets approaches Dryden. A strange beast in the woods you say? I was sent down here from Oppara to check into such things. How about I buy you a drink and you tell me about it and then maybe we can track it down? Barkeep! A round for my friend here. I think I may need to buy some warmer clothes as well if there are any to be had in town.

I don't know if his description matches anything I might recall and don't know which knowledge to check but I'll roll and if it's Arcana add 1. If it's dungeoneering or local it is just the roll

Knowledge ?: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22

When Agatha comes in Did you find Dryden's beast? If so I'll help you look for it

The Exchange

Human Rogue 2 DEAD

Talon stands as the rugged female enters the room.

I haven't exactly been posting all over town that I'm a bounty hunter...yet everyone seems to know. Not sure if that's good or not.

"What do you need?" he says.

Armed. Very athletic. What does she want from me?


Male Half Elf Bard (Arcane Duelist) 1 | HP: 10/10 | AC: 15 FF:14 T:11 | F:+3 R: +3 W:+1 | Init:+3 | Perc: +5

Perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17

Before going out Andras grabs both sword and buckler, "Mom, dad, I'm going out. There is something or someone calling for help out in the snow. Maybe they got surprised." He was surprised so it stood to reason anyone was.

He slowly moved closer, blade at his hip but the shield tied to his forearm, "Anyone there?" He shouted as he slowly made his way into the forest. He would have to get a coat later, the weather was chilly.

I think I mentioned this before, but Andras is staying with his parents, grandparents and little sister while in Heldren, he does not have his own place.

Sovereign Court

female Human (Ulfen) Barbarian (invulRager)2
Spoiler:
| AC 17(15) T 11 (9) FF 13 (16) | HP 24/24(28/1728) | F +5(+9)R +1(3) W +1(+5) | Init +1 | Perc +6 DR 1/-

"Brutus, the pride of Heldren has been killed. He is a bull, a famous one. I could find tracks, large ones. And some umm.. moss. The bull was strong, immensly strong. And still someone just killed him. And carried him away."

The Exchange

Human Rogue 2 DEAD

What's in it for me? Well, I'm bored beyond belief, and moving around will at least get the blood flowing.

Talon pulls his cold-weather gear from his pack. After donning this attire, he turns back to Agatha.

"Show me."

Sovereign Court

female Human (Ulfen) Barbarian (invulRager)2
Spoiler:
| AC 17(15) T 11 (9) FF 13 (16) | HP 24/24(28/1728) | F +5(+9)R +1(3) W +1(+5) | Init +1 | Perc +6 DR 1/-

"Gladly... and everyone who is interested... can follow me too!


Male Human Wizard 4| AC 16 T 12 FF 14| HP 30/30 | F +4 R +4 W +5 | Init +2 | Perc +10

I'll come with you, but first is there someplace I can buy some warmer clothes? Wasn't expecting to need my long john's midsummer. If not I'll be ok if you give me a minute.

The Exchange

Human Rogue 2 DEAD

Talon points north to the general store. He has been in town long enough to have visited.

"Just across the street there," he says while rubbing his scruffy chin.


Male Human Wizard 4| AC 16 T 12 FF 14| HP 30/30 | F +4 R +4 W +5 | Init +2 | Perc +10

Never mind, it will take too long. We should start after this beast as soon as possible. If it's too cold I've a scroll that will protect me for 24 hours that won't take but a few seconds to use.


Female Human Follower Alias

Damn this exploded while I slept x_x

Upon waking, Meditrina gets up, and looks for a shower. If there isn't one to hand, she melts a bucket of snow and pours it over her head, effectively cleaning herself from any grime on the floor, as well as removing any sleep hair she received the night before. After this, she finds a quiet spot, and prays quietly, preparing her spells.

Once finished, Meditrina again enters the tavern, and from tavern conversations quickly picks up the thread as to what's currently going on.

She quickly nods to Agatha, "I'll come with, if you will have me"

Sovereign Court

female Human (Ulfen) Barbarian (invulRager)2
Spoiler:
| AC 17(15) T 11 (9) FF 13 (16) | HP 24/24(28/1728) | F +5(+9)R +1(3) W +1(+5) | Init +1 | Perc +6 DR 1/-

"It might never hurt. To have someone with fire in her heart in this cold moments. Waiting for everybody to gather their items, Agatha leads them back to the barn and shows them the prints and the moss.


Whatever killed that bull, could be worth a quite a bit of gold to these villagers He looked to the people who've volunteered If I go with them I'll have to split the gold four ways...but at least this way its less dangerous Lars got up from his chair and rolled his shoulders backwards in an effort to relax himself.

"Just let me get my equipment, and I'll come along" Said the blond haired man before heading to his room.

..........................................................................

Upon returning he noticed that they were about ready to leave, so he quickly followed them, his weapons and gear at the ready, his leather armor prepared to protect him from strikes he couldn't avoid, while his long coat and gloves covered any exposed skin in an effort to protect him from the unexpected cold.

The Exchange

Human Rogue 2 DEAD

[b]"Maybe there's somethin' to the report of a giant weasel,"[b] Talon says.

Talon looks cautiously ahead as they move toward the barn.

I can at least outrun a couple of them if things get dicey.

perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12


Andras

Following the sound of the cries, which get weaker as you approach, you soon find a small boy, maybe 8-10 years old, soaking wet and fallen to the ground. His skin is an awful blue color and his shivering is so fierce it looks as if he is having a seizure on the ground.

DC 12 Heal or Know Nature:
It appears the boy is suffering from hypothermia. In his wet condition, and with the falling temperatures, he is in extreme danger of dying from exposure. Getting him warm is a priority.

Know Local DC 12:
You recognize the boy as the adopted son of Kale and Menander Garimos, the tavern keepers at Silver Stoat. The boys name is Fredric, you think.


The Rest

As the four unlikely companions set back off for Old Man Dansby's farm, they are struck by the cold weather. While simply odd and unusual in town, the cold as they approach the southern farms is down right uncomfortable. The sky is dark for mid-morning, and snow flurries fall and blow around them, starting to turn the grassy fields white with a dusting of snow.

As they approach the barn, Old Man Dansby is still standing in the barnyard shivering. "Not sure what y'all come out here to see. Brutus is gone. All that's left o' him is that blood yonder. Don' know what et him, but it musta been sometin' huge."

He shows you into the barn, and you can see the wall chopped by something like an axe. The blood trail is still there, congealed in the cold. There are a few footprints that look vaguely humanoid though of larger size than any human you have seen.'

The sprig of moss-like growth is still attached to a bent nail in the caved in barn side.


Male Human Wizard 4| AC 16 T 12 FF 14| HP 30/30 | F +4 R +4 W +5 | Init +2 | Perc +10

Trawets checks for any residual magic by casting Detect Magic, not that I expect to find any after this length of time.

Can any of you follow the tracks?


Male Half Elf Bard (Arcane Duelist) 1 | HP: 10/10 | AC: 15 FF:14 T:11 | F:+3 R: +3 W:+1 | Init:+3 | Perc: +5

Heal, untrained: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (10) - 1 = 9
I guess you don't need knowledge to know a human turned blue is bad though, that's common sense

"Damnit, poor thing. I'll get you to mom, she'll know what to do with you." With that he bows down to carefully pick up the boy so he can carry him towards his parents' house. "Hold on little guy, I'll get you out of here."

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