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Double, double toil and trouble;
Fire burn, and caldron bubble
It has been a century since the immortal witch Baba Yaga last visited the world, and the hour draws nigh for her return. But when she fails to appear in the frozen realm of Irrisen to usher in its newest ruler, pockets of winter begin to grow throughout the Inner Sea region. After 1,400 years of perpetual winter, the icy curse of Irrisen is spreading! What links do these strange blizzards and swaths of wintry landscapes have with Irrisen, and is there any truth to the growing rumors that the Witch Queen Elvanna has taken full control of the realm? Can her plans for the Inner Sea be thwarted, or will the Reign of Winter engulf the world?
The streets of Heldren, while normally quiet and calm, have been more active of late: a wandering elf showed up just days ago, causing a ruckus but catching the attention of the townsfolk along the way. "Yog-Sothoth knows the gate. Yog-Sothoth is the gate. Yog-Sothoth is the key and guardian of the gate. Past, present, future, all are one in Yog-Sothoth. He knows where the Old Ones broke through of old, and where They shall break through again!" the elf declared repeatedly as he marched up and down the street. "The end is coming and Yog-Sothoth will engulf all, the chaos will be upon us! Embrace the Lurker at the Threshold! The Key and the Gate are coming!"
His dark hair and pale skin made him stand out from any elves the locals had met before. He dressed himself in dark clothing as well, although much of this is obscured by two large wooden signs covering his front and back, held together by a pair of leather thongs over the shoulders. The words NO NYARLATHOTEP, NO CHAOS stared out at villagers as he approached. As the elf passed, they were met with the words KNOW NYARLATHOTEP, KNOW CHAOS written across the board on the elf's back.
Many have now spoken with the elf and found him more personable than his apocalyptic proclamations would have him seem. Indeed, he is a friendly, if a bit obsessed and perhaps misguided, fellow. His methods may be strange and his words extreme, but his intentions are good.
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The sleepy village of Heldren has rarely seen so much excitement or concern. Hunters from the nearby Border Wood speak of unnaturally cold weather at the height of summer that descended on the forest just days ago. Heavy snow followed, and those who returned spoke of an uneasy presence in the woods, as well as new, dangerous predators. No one knows what this event means, but the town’s soothsayer, Old Mother Theodora, claims dark times lie ahead. As if in proof of that dire prophecy, a badly wounded mercenary arrived in town yesterday, claiming to be a bodyguard of Lady Argentea Malassene. He told the village council that the noblewoman’s escort came under attack by bandits and strange, wintry creatures near the edge of the Border Wood. He alone escaped, and Lady Argentea was dragged away into the forest. Now the townsfolk cast fearful eyes toward the snowy forest, worried what else might emerge to threaten their peaceful village. Or at least, that's what it being told at the Silver Stoat.
In this time of uncertainty, people of many skills have come to witness the strange phenomenon. They have gathered at The Silver Stoat, Heldren's only tavern, which stands right on the town square across from the town hall. A fixture of village life, the tavern fills up with patrons in the evening as they gather to share gossip, hear news, and reward themselves for a hard day’s work. This fine establishment is run almost like a family kitchen by Menander and Kale Garimos—there’s always a seat at the table or a space by the hearth for a guest, or a warm bowl of Menander’s hearty stew for an empty belly. Delicious smells reach your nostrils, reminding you of wild herbs and venison.
As one of these outsiders to the village, you have found a seat at the only table that was shunned by the townsfolk, the furthest one from the fire roaring in the hearth. There, you are currently sharing a pint of the ever-famous tavern’s signature brew, "Three Devil Ale", sharing stories of the world with people who have one common point with you—the perspective of investigating the Border Wood matter doesn't scare them in the least.
It seems my arrival in this town was destined! The Signs! They are so clear, why does no one listen?
"I tried to warn them," the dark-haired elf begins, "When Yog-Sothoth arrives all will be different, all will be chaos. This is but the first sign of that chaos; winter near the Qadiran border! Madness! Embrace it, I say! Soon it will be all that we know!"
The elf's wide eyes slowly shrink as he smiles and the worried look on his face washes away. "Apologies. Sometimes I come on strong; I forget when I am preaching and when I am drinking with friends. I call myself Zadok Allendil in these lands." He pauses to take a drink of the ale, nodding in satisfaction as he sets the mug down. "This is a fine town. I've been here for a few days preaching salvation. How did you all get here? And I don't believe I caught your names."
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Virgil Ardelean is every bit the dashing swordsman, with swept jet black hair, deep auburn eyes and an offset pale complexion. If his origins weren't evident in his elegant Ustalvic accent, they certainly are in his gothic, yet fashionable attire. The duelists image is only enhanced by the presence of a thin blade scar across his cheek. Any who enquire soon learn it is a "Lepidstadt scar", a badge of honor for those who have attended the University of the same name.
The young man takes another mouthful of his ale, smiling as he shares at least part of his reason for being in Heldren with any who will listen.
"...Of course, ideally I was hoping to cross swords with one of the famed Taldan swordsmen, perhaps one of those Lion Blades I've heard mention of. However, when I heard mention of the unprecedented chill that seems to have appeared locally, intrigue got the better of me. You see some strange things back home, but I've not heard of anything like this before."
Pausing to take another mouthful, Virgil allows another of those assembled to speak.
A stoic, gruff looking man sits at the bar of the tavern, pointedly ignoring those seated near him. Staring into his tankard, he seems lost in thought. The man has straw colored hair and a pale complexion of those who hail from the north, but his exposed neck is a shade of red-bronze, speaking of much time spent out of doors. The northener is bedecked in leather and furs, a longbow and spear laying next to his pack on the floor, and a large, curved knife at this belt.
Motioning to the barkeep, he points to his tankard and drops a coin on the worn, stained surface of the bar.
A young-looking man sits next to you, every inch of his skin and hair is typically ulfen, except his frailness and his black eyes.
Not very talkative, he's been listening with wide eyes to Zadok and Virgil, petting a white hare who's sleeping on his knees. From time to time, he takes a small sip of ale.
He sometimes makes a move, as if he wanted to add something, but then seems to be not bold enough to do it. When finally Virgil looks at him, he flushes and says "My name is Thorgull Lightfoot Kjalderssen. I live in a small town in the area and I heard about... what happened in the woods. I wanted to..." he stops talking as if a violent thought crossed his mind. Eventually, he resumes talking, looking in the empty air "I must train."
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Many rumors are being shared in the Silver Stoat. Everyone says the weather is unseasonably cold for midsummer—it even snowed in the Border Wood! Most suspect magic is involved, and some fear Qadiran agents played a role in it.
There is also the matter of a local farmer named Old Man Dansby, who claims that someone keeps stealing from his fields. His farm lies closest to the Border Wood, where half his crops have died from an icy frost and the rest have been carried off.
You also have all heard the crazy story about a farmer’s son who took ill a few days ago after falling through the ice over Wishbone Creek. The boy said he spotted a white stag in the forest—and heard it talking—then tried to follow it. Most people in the Stoat still chuckle at that story.
"You know," Zadok begins, "right when I got to town-about two weeks ago-a very beautiful lady, Lady Argentea Malassene,traveled past Heldren on her way from Oppara to Zimar to meet her betrothed. Rumor has it the two didn’t get along and Lady Argentea caused a scandal by calling off the engagement and returning home. I haven't heard about her passing through on the way back though. Unless the Qadirans are up to something fishy, I fear the Lady may have fallen prey to the chaos that descends upon this town...."
Virgil nods in agreement with Zadok.
"It wouldn't surprise me, I heard a local named Dryden saw a giant white weasel on the High Ridge road in the forest. Last anyone saw of him, he'd headed off to trap it."
The young swordsman looks around the table.
"Perhaps, given our specific skill sets, we could do the locals a favor and look into these two incidents? Alittle popularity in a place like this goes a long way."
Noding at Virgil, Thorgull says: "Sure thing. It looks like the High Sentinels can use a hand, if all of what you say is true.
Zadok nods in agreement. We may not be able to quell the chaos but we can at least discover the source. Yog-Sothoth reveals himself to those who are worthy.
Listening in to the conversation, Stian turns and regards the three talking with a blank stare, then slowly begins to speak, as if it is something he doesn't do that often. "I've spent more time than most in the woods, and what has been described is unnatural. I had planned to look into it myself."
Turning to Virgil, he asks. "A giant white weasel, you say? I could get a good amount of coin for its pelt. Where'd you say it was spotted?"
Vigil nods in greeting at the stranger.
"High Ridge road apparently, we were just considering a venture out if you'd care to join us? Another body would be appreciated, especially if you know your way around such lands. I didn't catch your name stranger?"
The youngster reattachs his sword belt, standing to do so.
"Why delay further? If you're all ready and able we can make some ground."
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As you are speaking about your plans, Kale Garimos brings you another round of ale fresh from the tap. She cannot help but chime in.
"Our Stian here is one of the best guides and hunters we have in town. Err- sorry, I couldn't help but hear what you were saying. Not that it is my business or anything, but if you're going in the Border Woods, you should speak with the sole survivor from Lady Argentea's expedition. I've heard he's hurt pretty badly, but I'm sure he saw some things of interest. He's being cared for at the Willowbark Apothecary. I mean- like I said, none of my business."
The broad-shouldered innkeeper cannot help but blush a little as she turns around from your table to attend to another one.
"Stian Ovensen." The ranger says in response to Virgil. "I usually travel alone, but seeing we're heading in the same direction, I'll accompany your group for the time being."
Virgil extends a hand in friendship.
"Pleasure to meet you Stian. My name is Virgil Adrelean, pleasure to meet you. I won't presume to introduce these gentlemen, they can speak for themselves."
Thorgull stands up, then dresses himself with his heavy cloak, sliding his hare back in it. He bows swiftly to Stian. "Thorgull Kjalderssen. Pleased to meet you, we will need your skills."
"Zadok Allendil," the elf nods as he shakes everyone's hands again. "It sounds like we have a plan. But I think our friend Kale has a good idea; let's go talk to this survivor and hear what tale he tells." Zadok drains the last remnants of his mug down to the dregs and stands up from the table, waiting for someone else to lead the way, as he does not yet know where the apothecary is located in this town.
"Well met, to all of you. I cannot argue with the wisdom of speaking with the survivor first." Grabbing his pack and hefting it unto his shoulder, he collects his weapons and heads out the door. "As small as this hamlet is, everyone probably knows where the survivor is being treated, it shouldn't be hard to find them."
Once outside, he moves to a hitching pole and begins to undo the reins of a mule. "Come on girl, easy now Ragna." He mumbles soothingly to the pack animal, leading her along.
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Finding where the survivor is being cared for, the "Willowbark Apothecary", is a simple enough task, since it is only a couple of houses away from the Silver Stoat. You cross a well-tended garden sitting in front of an equally neat house. The oaken door is open, and leads into a small shop filled with vials, drying herbs, pots containing various types of mushrooms and moss. Your eyes wander from one shelf to another, positively surprised by how well-stocked the local apothecary is. You even spot a large collection of red glass flasks labeled "alchemist's fire", far enough to blow up most of the Border Wood!
As you're inspecting all these wares, an elven woman dressed with a cloth apron enters the shop.
"Greetings, travelers. I am Tessaraea Willowbark, owner of this humble shop. What may I do for you?"
"Hello, Tessaraea," Zadok begins with a small bow of his head, "I am Zadok and these are my new companions. We heard that you were looking after the man who survived the raid on Lady Argentea's caravan. You see, we are about to head in to the Border Wood ourselves to discover what could have assaulted him and we thought he might be able to describe what he saw before we leapt in blindly."
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The elf, recognizing one of her own people, nods in acceptance. "I see. Please follow me, I shall lead you to that man. His name is Yuln, and he's still very weak, so I'll only ask that you don't strain him too much with your questions."
Tessaraea leads you upstairs, in a room where a roaring fire is burning into the hearth. A simple bed rests not too far from it, and a bruised man is resting in it. Wrapped
in bandages, the Ulfen mercenary’s nose, fingers, and toes have taken on a black hue from serious frostbite, and he is still heavily wounded. Despite his obvious pain, however, he waves you to come closer to speak with you.
"So you're the ones who want to go after My Lady and rescue her? Would that I could go with you," he says. "My ancestors would ridicule my lack of valor for f leeing rather than fighting to the end. But I faced enemies that even the greatest warriors in the Linnorm Kingdoms have faltered against, though I think I slew at least one of them before they dragged Lady Argentea away. You surely have questions." he sighs painfully. "Ask away."
"What were these enemies, first of all? What made them so ferocious? Did they ambush you or were they just too powerful for you to handle?"
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"We thought they were just bandits at first—outlaws who hide like wolves in the forest. They were no match for us. But then came the cold fey of the north. They appeared among us and the battle turned quickly. My people speak of the winter-touched all the time, but I never expected to meet them this far south."
Seeing your blank faces at the mention of the winter-touched, he continues.
"The winter-touched are fey creatures who have sworn themselves to the White Witches of Irrisen, those who stole our lands from us during the Winter War. Tiny sprites no taller than the length of a man’s forearm. But don’t be fooled by their small stature. Legends say they have taken a sliver of ice into their hearts, and their touch bears the harsh bite of winter. You fight them with cold iron and burning flame. Both burn them, and both are weapons they fear."
While the mercenary speaks, Thorgull takes notes in a small notebook, mumbling "cold fey... winter-touched... cold iron..."
Stina shakes his head in disgust. "Fey...never up to any good...." Frowning he continues. "If the witches are behind this, that does not bode well."
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The Ulfen coughs raggedly, then inquires with a concerned look.
"Are you keen on saving My Lady, then? She's in need of rescuing, and I can't do that in my state. However, Councilwoman Ionnia Teppen came earlier, and suggested that she would offer a reward for Lady Argentea's rescue. Can I count on you to free her?"
Stian tries to hide the eagerness on his face at the mention of reward. "I can't speak for my newly met companions, but I will endeavor to rescue the woman."
Interrupting his writing, Thorgull looks at the mercenary, a bit unsure of himself "I guess I might be able to give a hand for this... rescue mission."
Vigil nods at the ulfens request.
"It would be only right for me to strike out and assist fellow nobility, especially when a seasoned warrior such as yourself is out of action."
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Zadok smiles pleasantly and responds, "Yes, if it possible to find her we will do so."
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Yuln sighs in relief. "Praised be the gods."
The increasing worry seems to extend to Tessaraea, who eventually ushers you out. "I'm sorry, but he needs rest badly. If you need anything else, you may inquire from Ionnia Teppen, the Councilwoman of Heldren. I'm sure she'll be delighted to hear that people will endeavor to save Lady Argentea. By the way if you're heading into the forest, make sure to check out my wares. You might find them handy when you face those fey."
She studies you for a second, then nods at Thorgull. "I see you have furs at hand. They might save you in the woods, for the cold there is terrible." Then addressing the rest of the group: "You might want to get some as well, lest you freeze to death there."
"I don't quite fancy my demise to be freezing to death in a forest, I'll happy look over your wares."
"That is a good idea. I would hate to die of a cold and miss the coming of the Gate and the Key."
Pulling on the furs, Virginia addresses the others.
"It might be wise to pay a visit to the people in charge here, make them aware of our intentions."
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"Yes, I suppose that would be courteous." Zadok waits for someone else to lead the way. He's still new here and doesn't know where the leaders would be stationed.
"Stian, as you are the one who knows the area, would you be so kind as to lead us to mayor or anyone in charge here?"
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Finding Councilior Ionnia Teppen proves to be very easy, as Heldren isn't a large village. You are able to meet her at the town hall, the only building in Heldren to boast a clock tower overlooking the town square . She is discussing various matters with villagers as you approach her, but you immediately catch her attention. She dismisses the two men she was speaking with and greets you with a nod.
"I hear you're the ones who are about to attempt a rescue for Lady Argentea. Yes, word gets around fast here, you shouldn't be surprised. We are a small community, but we're grateful for your courage and will to get involved in our problems. Is there any way we can help?"
Zadok bows and introduces himself to the councilwoman. "Any information you have about the Border Wood or the recent happenings, including the raid on the Lady Argentea, would certainly be of use."
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"We have a local hunter who could give you information about the Border Wood. His name is Dryden Kepp, but I fear he's currently in the woods. You could ask Old Mother Theodora for advice though, since her wisdom extends far beyond the boundaries of worlds. As for more practical matters, I can provide you with as much food as you can carry, even a tent if you'd like. I'm no expert at survival in extreme cold, but it looks like a start."
Before leaving, Stian tries to haggle for a reduced price on the cold weather outfit, having only 7 gold to his name.
Stian nods to the councilor. "Aye, anything you could provide would be helpful." Galncing at his new companions, he says. "It would semm we should speak to this Old Mother."
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Stian does indeed manage to have a slightly reduced price for his outfit, and the deal is done. A tent suited for four people is also freely given, as are enough foodstuffs to feed you for a week.
Finding Old Mother Teodora's house is easy, you just have to follow the strong, yet delicate smell of spiced tea that comes from the easternmost house in town. A knock at the door, and an elderly voice comes from within. "Lift the latch, I am too weak, and cannot get up. Enter." You proceed to obey the wise woman's words, and the door springs open once the latch is lifted. Inside, the smell of hot tea is even stronger, calming your fear at the idea of entering the forest to confront its mysteries. An old woman - dare you say she's as old as the world itself? - lies in a bed, with her cap pulled far over her face, and looking very strange. No doubt she earned her reputation in Heldren as a soothsayer and hedge witch, as well as the town's most skilled midwife. On her skin, the deep, craggy wrinkles look just like the lines of fate in your hands, telling of a long, unending life that just won't stop. Her ageless clear blue eyes gaze at you, yet bear great care and fondness.
"Welcome to my home, strangers, I was expecting you. I am Old Mother Theodora, or at least that's what the villagers call me." She smiles gently. "You have come in search for answers, of course. Please, do help yourself to a cup of the tea brewing over there. There are also scones on the table for you, as well as cream and jam. Find yourself a chair, and come closer, so that we may talk freely. What are your questions?"
Zadok helps himself to some tea and pulls up a chair. He pushes his long dark hair out of his brooding eyes and repeats their mission. "We wish to go into the Border Wood to discover the source of the strange chaos that comes from that region and perhaps to save the Lady Argentea if we are not too late."
Stian listens to the old woman intently. After Zadok speaks, Stian adds hi own question. "Do you anything of this unnatural cold? There have been many stories of strange things....queer things."