Iobaria: The Fallen Empire

Game Master Corerue

A group of Mercenaries set off with their Mercenary company into the dark lands known as Iobaria. Braving the fallen realm and what dark history lies therein to make their mark, make some gold and perhaps become heroes...

Ambushing the Raiders!


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Tim the battle yak was knocked cold by the beast, tipping over as it and Wallace both lost the means to move conciously on their own...

Low is safe, high is bad: 1d100 ⇒ 49

Unlike his mount, Wallace was still acutely aware of his surroundings and the jolt of the impact was far more painful as he was unable to slow his impact. Slamming into the earth gave him the awareness that despite TIm being on his leg he wasn't completely pinned by his mount...

Mai was still airborne and struck the beast with a powerful strike as well!

The bear staggered, blood spraying from the open wound in its shoulder and yet it still didn't fall! It turned its head and the red glint in its eyes were focused on Mai then just before the beast let loose a savage roar spraying the flying magi with bloody spittle as the creature fought defiantly on!

Enemy stats HP -3...

Wallace: Proned but not pinned, Tim is currently giving partial cover. Granted the next strike would probably kill your Yak. Normal rules apply, picture just pulling your leg free as you get into a standing position.


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

Still out for the round, best of luck on killing that thing. Hopefully Livain can shoot it to make the job slightly easier. Everyone in the group is in melee with the thing so arguably Livain could stop her focus on keeping the snow off and just full round it.
Non-lethal converts to lethal once a critter is in negative HP so Frostbite with a flurry of arrows might just drop the thing if you can land them.

Wallace groans in pain into the snow. A hand clenching and then releasing but no further movement from the human beyond breathing.


Livain continues to hold the snow back, looking almost sick to her stomach as she does so. Her scales taking on a grey tone around the edges...

Rhavenna and Wallace are up!


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

Wallace is stunned and does nothing


Female Centaur Ranger (Skirmisher/Divine tracker) 4

Bleeding heavily, a look of fury fills Rhavenna's eyes as she sees the beast, mortally wounded yet filled with rage, baring down on Tidus as he stands protecting her. With a wild battlecry, she launches herself into another galloping charge dashing past Tidus as her lance punches into the monster's side.

1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 12 + 2 = 27 Charge
2d8 + 16 ⇒ (5, 2) + 16 = 23


Rhavenna's charge slams into the huge bear, the lance tip bursting out of its backside a second time and adding more blood to the growing pool at its feet. The bear roars so loudly at this that Livain's concentration shatters completely and the snow comes down in a massive wave, like a river of white overflowing a dam. In the swirling vortex the bear whirls on Rhavenna, nearly ripping the lance that impaled it from her hands as it raised its claws once more. Its movements were jerky though, the damage she had done clearly making it far more jerky and erratic.

Its form fell towards her left, its paws coming down with frightful speed but she jerked back just in time for the lumbering beast to collapse next to where she was standing. Slamming so hard onto its side that it kicked up the freshly fallen snow in a great plumb that covered everyone in a sheet of white tinged red by the bear's blood.

It laid there, gasping for breath and weakly clawing at the ground near where Wallace lay, its massive reach allowing it a few desperate but pitiful attempts to get at its prey as its life ebbed quickly away. Its blood gushed out of the massive injuries inflicted on it and its body quivered as its life drained away.

It was a matter of half a minute before its eyes glazed over completely, a calm expression on its now slack muzzle as Faldirk stepped forward and Tadis watched it die wheezing. When its last deathrattle passed Faldirk stepped forward and ripped the axe from its torso, spilling its guts in a smelly, infected pile. He looked over the axe as he snapped his helm open. "That old trapper got a good hit in, lodged it deep and poisoned the blade to boot."

Apologies for my poor tracking of the NPC's however you guys did great. xD

Seeing Wallaces predicament he walked over and helped roll some of Tim's bulk off of his leg. As he waited for Wallace to pull himself free he nodded to Rhavenna's injuries. "We best get ya patched up. Lest the poison is now in the beasts bite."


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

Yeah, that lance crit was glorious. It also saved our collective asses, given another round that thing would have definitely killed one of us.

I am assuming we are out of combat and can take some actions here.
Wallace shrugs the collected snow off his back sighing as he looks at the creature. The human taking Faldirks offered hand with a glinting grin. He looks to his mount groaning pitifully in pain and nods.
"It was the gift of a dozen smaller chances that lead us to this result. I shall do my best to ensure that your fallen hunters are returned home in honor of their help. "
Wallace then nods to Rhavenna, a flash of teeth as he produces a wand.
"Though Arguably Rhavenna did the lions share of putting that beast down. Well done. Fortunately we are well prepared for wounds of the flesh, we can recover such damage. Then I expect you will want to inform the townsfolk of our success. Where is the shrine of Deadeye? Doubtless if this beast was truly a guardian we may end up invoking further vengeance by leaving things as they are now."
Wallace proceeds to rapidly activate the wand and reduce the wounds taken to nothing more but memories. The Humans gaze then drifting back to the great beast.
"What do you all think of some bearskin boots? I can try to see if whatever boon that let it move with such stealth would remain in its body. Given a day I can make Tim capable of dragging that carcass so we can skin it."

It would be fun to make either boot or Cloak versions of the Boots of the winterlands out of the bear. though if you'd prefer we not have such a targeted boon against the trails of winter travel I'd also understand.

wallace strides over to his mount and extends a healing palm.
Tim makes a confused squawk of fear and surprise then a deep noise of satisfaction. Then finishing with a few more bursts of healing form the wand.
CMW: 2d8 + 4 ⇒ (8, 8) + 4 = 20


Female Centaur Ranger (Skirmisher/Divine tracker) 4

As Wallace heals the vicious wounds, Rhavenna breathes a sigh of relief, flashing Tidus a smile as she cleans off her lance. "That was....insane." she mutters shaking her head in some amazement as she looks at the massive corpse.


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

Sanity is decided by consensus, however it is good to see that thing no longer moving. An elephant sized bear with intent to murder us is not the best of things to deal with. Regardless I'll be glad to be back inside and I think Tim could use a banquet of high quality vegetables. A shame there is nothing here for him to eat." The human comments are he attempts to remove the portions of avalanche that had entered his ears, down his heavy parka and lodged between the folds of his clothes.


Those were some nice rolls indeed Rhavenna. A lance can make short work of an otherwise brutal encounter. ;)

When the bear's life ebbs away so too does some of the ferocity of the storm, Livain feels a distinct change in the way the snow around her moves. Less forceful, less corrupted and untouched by that tainted feeling that still clung to her now partially greyed scales...

Everyone notices the storm abates some, but not complete, and Faldirk looks somewhat satisfied with how quickly your group patches up. He nods at Rhavenna in acknowledgement of what Wallace had said previously. "We had a saying in my homeland. 'Only deadmen underestimate the hooved races. It was because their ferocity with long shafts is as legendary as their temper. Both of which when tested would get ya killed. I am glad to see that ferocity has not dimmed in the many years that I have been away." He declines Wallaces wand as he focuses on Rhavenna a moment longer before finally looking at the strange spokesemen of the group.

Looking to Wallace he smiles slightly. "Some of the buildings ya passed are for storing vegetables underground, a trick I taught the people here. It was hell digging through the bedrock but the mountain keeps the ground at perfect temperature. We even have a few plants that are good year round." If there was no more business to be had with the corpse he leads the group back towards the longhouse and upon approaching it yo all notice something odd about the entrance. The were completely made of stone now, a black stone that smelled terrible and foreboding.

Faldirk stops you all short as the twin doors were now sealed completely, as if they had turned to stone in your absence. Faldirk speaks in elven. "Brother stone return to thy slumber for darkness has passed." As he says the last words a seal appears across the door, that of a shattered tree, split down the middle and appearing to be in flames before it disappears and the doors creak and groan as they return to normal.

Faldirk waves his armored hand in the air, drawing some sort of sign rather quickly before stepping forward and opening the unbarred doorway. Once standing on the floor again he pulls a hammer from the wall and taps the floor six times, hard enough to make it ring loudly throughout the room and after the sixth hit you see the floor at the far end of the longhouse start to recede. "The caves were a ruse, if it went there it would have only ended up tired and irritated. The fire was more Muskwood. I was focused on a fight of attrition to win against that beast. However it was more than I imagined. Knowing I could very well lose the fight I had them hide in the safest place, the very place we store the majority of our goods."

As he pauses a spearpoint juts out of the opening in the floor, followed by another and then by a handful more before finally a man peers out. A rusted helm on his head.


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

The human nods at Faldirks anecdote about centaurs. "She certainly shows our enemies that her race is one to be feared."
Wallace takes no effort in looking surprised when the men under the floor appear. "The way you ignored the option of trying to trap the beast was a good clue to there being something else. If you happen to have a few heads of lettuce or some carrots down there I'm sure Tim would be very pleased."

With that the human gives the helmeted man in the floor a short bow
"Greetings, we heard you had a bear problem. Wallace, Rhavenna, Livain, Maiathreen of the Blades of death mercenary company at your service. This is Tadis who is affiliated with us as well. We could all use a drink if you've any spare, and I suspect you will all want to celebrate that monsters baleful existence ending." The priest gives a grin to the collection, glinting self assured arrogance as he stands among his allies pointing when saying names.

A groan from just outside the stone house can also be heard. "And that would be Tim, also with us."


The man in the floor looked suspiciously at Wallace until he noticed the Elder was with you all. It was then the attitude shifted and he barked down to those below something in a harsh tongue. If you know Ulfen then your good to go. if not no reading the spoiler, unless you have another means.

Ulfen:

"The Elder did it! Looks like some mercs dropped in to lend 'im some aid but this one here says the bears down. So let the rest know and I will handle things up here. Also bring some food for their draught beast..."

"Praise the gods!"
"When the old hunter fell..."
"... thought it was the end for sure."
"Best to stay armed if the mercs killed this creature... How can we trust them eh?"
"If the Elder does then so do I, best be armed only with what we need. Put the rest back in the armory..."

There's a murmur from down below as the Helmeted man speaks with those below him but the spears tips fall away and the sound of retreating footsteps echo from below. At the sound of the retreating steps the man climbs the last few steps and rises into above ground chamber. He was a tall slender man but where he lacked in bulk he made up for in lean muscle bordering on the edge of too lean.

However as his eyes fell on Rhavenna the man's face twisted into a snarl. He was about to open his mouth when the Elder dropped the hammer hard once more, the ringing so loud it hurt your ears. Elder Fladirk spoke in the harsh tongue the man had spoke in before. Clearly berating the man as the snarl fell completely away and was replaced by a look of surprise followed swiftly by the man waving his hand at Rhavenna and back at the Elder. However whatever they were discussing was over after a lengthy but quick exchange, the helmeted man finally nodded to the Elder before looking to Rhavenna with a look of surprise, awe an a bit of apprehension.

Ulfen:

"Mind your tongue or it'll be your last word to my guests."

"You can't be serious Elder Grenalf! One of THEM what drove us here! Killed our kind and now ya want us to play nice with our conquerors?"

"Look at her coat ya damn fool! Shes not of that clan, shes Dvezda. Mayhap the last and a lot stronger then you motley f#~%s. She damn handedly killed that beast with naught more then a lance and her will to win. Ya think you can beat her then by all means die right where you stand Njul."

"The Dvezda... Their dead."

"Not all of them, obviously. Not but them had that coat and she plans to return to Old Iobaria."

[smaller}"Does she not know what could happen? She could face the sickness that killed her kinfolk... Or worse."[/smaller]

"Aye, but these here mercs are marching too Iobaria. Most likely at the call of one of the three wannabe kings."

"Tis happenin' again eh? War of Kings."

["Aye and this poor lot is walking right into their damned foolishness. Never ya mind and tell the others we be having a horse with us for supper and if they don't like it they can just stay below."

In all of that it became clear the man's name was Njul. When he looked to you all he spoke in fairly decent common. "I am Njul Hallinheim, my men will bring food for your draught beast Wallace though what we have is meager it will provide the nourishment needed. As I understand we will be hosting a... hooved one tonight as well. I will make sure they bring up more suitable foodstuffs for you. What is it you prefer...?"


Female Centaur Ranger (Skirmisher/Divine tracker) 4

When the Elder compliment's her ability in battle, Rhavenna actually blushes ever so slightly, difficult to notice with her tanned skin.

Looking at the man after clearly realizing that whatever the exchange was revolved around her, she sighs. "I eat the same as others for the most part, just maybe more of it." she says with a shrug


Maiathreen holds Livain up as her scales take on their normal coloration. He watches the conversation without emotion but is sure to watch the one who scowled. If hostilities were to follow he'd tear them apart and show them he fury of a dragon.


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

Rhavenna knows ulfen? Oh wait, she came from Iobaria as well didn't she?

Wallace nods to the newly arrived man, face a grinning facade.
Well that was amusing, not that I didn't already know all that from Grenalf's story. However it does provide me with an excellent excuse to press the elder about what he is speaking of about Rhavenna's history. The human does nothing to reveal his thoughts, the smile on his face doesn't reach his eyes though.

Wallace spends a moment removing some of his extra gear and weapons, placing his banner and his hefty pack on the ground next to the door. Wallace also carefully placing his masterfully crafted bone morningstar in several layers of binding to avoid frosting the floor.
" A pleasure to meet you then Ser Hallinheim. It is good fortune that Rhavenna was so adamant we come here to help. I find it uncomfortable to sit at a table with new acquaintances with enough weapons to imitate a porcupine. So I'll just be putting my things over here for now. I am a storyteller of minor skill so if you are all interested I could provide some entertainment for the night."


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As far as I know she only knows Sylvan and Common, she was born on the western side of the Icerimes away from Iobaria and the disease that ultimate destroyed her clan years ago.

"Just Njul. The men know to disarm now that the danger has passed. Though it is still custom to bear only what one needs." Njul was speaking honestly from what you could tell before he departed your company and headed below. The Elder appeared unconcerned, though still clad in full armor as he spooned up more of his stew from earlier. He does however stop to let the stew cool and replaces the the wood in the fire with regular wood. He throws open the doors to the longhouse, opens a few windows and lets a cold draft remove the last of the muskwood scent from the building before shutting the place up tight again.

He quickly sparks new life to the hearth and after a long while a few people poke their heads above the hidden stairwell. The first of many, starting with women and children. Who are startled at first by the appearance of a centaur in their mix but appear to have been informed and do not even ask questions as they quite bluntly take over the hearth from the Elder and start hanging additional iron pots while cutting up vegetables and dried meats.

Within an hour of the first arrivals the longhouse is absolutely packed with the residents of the small mountainside village. The air is warm and the muskwood is long dispersed which removed the itch from the non-humans. The growing number of people wasn't an uncomfortable thing in the large longhouse, though they were primarily speaking in their native tongue and it appeared to be that many could not speak in the more common tongues.

Rhavenna was still the subject of many an askance look before hastily lookin away from her and the Ulfen children had no qualms inspecting the Centaur up until their parents pulled them back with a hasty scolding for the children. This deterred them from further harassing the winged members of your group, though Mai's silent manner was deterrent enough already. All through this Faldirk was berated with questions about the bear and what had transpired. Njul was among the people their and was mingling as well.

True to his word they were lightly armed. Men wore hatchets or long blades and some even had unique look longbows. Youths carried only hatchets or shortbows and women were armed with a blade a little over the length of a dagger. The bows were stacked neatly along the wall near the doors to the longhouse along with their quivers and by all accounts it appeared to be a victory feast was to be laid out before all of you. The women busied themselves with the meal preparations while the men appeared to be waiting on call and moving around small kegs of mead for consumption.

Tidus merely watches the goings on within the Longhouse, not mingling much and staying close to the main doors of the longhouse as the people reamin busy. His stance deters others from approaching him and he doesn't make a move to change it.

Faldirk remains seated, eating the stew he had prepared in a very slow and deliberate manner. Though as each item is finished he takes a a taste of the finished product. Much to the annoyance of the woman cooking. Despite the heavy slaps he receives in return for his arrogance he merely smiles and swats a few on the rear in a bit of tit for tat play. Eventually they give up trying to dissuade the incorrigible Elder and when the meal if finally done he looks oddly satisfied with himself. Njul remains friend to the group and does in fact take Wallace up on his offer for entertainment.

"Come Mercenary, show us what bawdy toons ya have. We could do with a little upliftin'!"

The feast consisted primarily of an assortment of vegetables, freshly cooked and surprisingly fresh. The vegetables were prepared in several ways, including merely skinning some and eating them raw. The lions share was presented to Rhavenna, clearly Njul had made good in informing the others that she could eat a larger share and those presenting her with several helpings of food were more then eager to test her endurance.

Meat stews, Vegetable and chicken broth soups, small salads with an odd oily sauce with an almost earthy tone to it were all provided for everyone to partake in. Along with several types of mead, each with its own variation in flavor. One tasted of cinnamon, nutmeg or cloves with a very spicy flavor that was dulled by the honey added to the mixture to make it less overpowering. Maple mead, the sweet tasting mead made one eager to partake of it again and again due to its smooth flavor and light consistency. And lastly a Cyser mead, with such a zing in its taste that it was almost like drinking instead of eating apples as it tingled its way down your throat.

Once the food was served and the mead was flowing the room became more lively, indicative of those who had survived a great crisis. Congratulations were dished out in steady waves to those that would accept them and the people were no less thankful despite your group being outsiders or Rhavenna being one of the hooved races.


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

This speech is what I use to signify a language not everyone in the group knows. Mostly because I'm lazy and don't like the way spoilers cut up my paragraphs when there are lots of them. Lots of stuff to respond to in that post.
@All PC's Please know that anything Wallace says in Ulfen(Iobarian) he will gladly translate for those who want to know. So don't feel restricted in not knowing the language if you want to talk to the locals. Wallace will try and press Njul into the same service.

Wallace not one to be ignored spent the first little while grinning slightly, looking over to the Elder and then ensuring the trapdoor had closed before speaking in the harsh tongue the elder and the thin man had a moment ago. " I find myself quite interested to learn what you might have to say on Iobaria, Old one. Such information would be very useful, unfortunately our leader took this contract with little local knowledge. I am entirely certain that we march to peril and your ominous words tell more the same. Once the celebrations are done I'd appreciate talking further on this."
With that the human turns to his allies switching back to common
"Elder Faldirk just complimented you Rhavenna. Careful of anymore mighty deeds with him around or the hoarfrost and iron around his heart might just buckle. Not sure if the rest of him would were you to return his affections though, he's a tough old wolf" The human teases as he looks up to his companion.
"Though I'd make even bet that were you to offer the option quite a few of the folks here'd jump at the chance to armwrestle. they have something to prove against Centaurs and a nice encounter with one would do much to change their view. I'll gladly translate if you've an interest in speaking to anyone. Same offer to the rest of you"
The human states as he looks to Rhavenna, Maiathreen. Livain and Tadis in turn.

With that Wallace places a set of strange looking sleeves over the top of his partially removed cold weather garb. The collections of fur and chain mail vanishing and a fine winter robe of quality cut and color taking its place.
Using the Sleeves of Many garments to look like I have nicer clothes. Because Wallace can't help but preen in public. He's like that, especially in public that doesn't know how incredibly odd his is.
----------

on Njul's return Wallace nods to him in order to gain his attention. His vibrant coat obvious.
While I felt it unimportant a moment ago I would let you know now I can speak a dialect of the language. Just so you do not feel I kept it from you in order to listen in on conversations I would otherwise not be part of. I'd have commented earlier but you did not look terribly interested in listening to an outsider at the time. I would ask if you might help my companions anyone hoping to talk to them. Barring any secret talents I do not believe they know this language and I am only one man having another who can translate would make such things easier."

Wallace floats around the locals, introducing himself and his allies. He boasts of the travels the company had been involved in so far. Giving his allies's deeds extravagant gilding.
After the third time someone expressed disbelief when Faldirk explains how truly vast the beast they had fought was Wallace will sigh
"The corpse is just outside of town, come with me and bring some rope. I can hitch the corpse to Tim my pack beast, We can drag it into town for all to see."

Assuming they either agree or don't wallace will continue his antics. Wallace would use his Anytool to make a Yoke for Tim to drag the corpse with and to thread the ropes through.

The priest does his best to inform the children that the gentleman sulking in the back corner Tadis was in fact a leprechaun in disguise. The the secret to his gold hidden in his back pocket.
The instigator giving enough of a look to Tadis to let him know Wallace was the one at fault for his sudden popularity with younglings.
Wallace then telling a quick story of Brynjolf the fearless who committed many deeds of strength to impress the bonnie lass he loved. He armwrestled a Centaur and won to catch her attentions first, though ultimately he failed to wrestle a mountain. His Lass took him anyway.
Weaving stories of Livain and Maithreens draconian heritage, and explaining how dragons guard the things they love most jealously. A jibe to some of the young men in the village informing them of the futility in pursuit of the beautiful Livain, then a similar one to the women as not just Maiathreen held the strength of a dragon in their frame.

The human walks over to the looming dragon-elf and offering the man a finely made deck of cards. The edges worn with use but the colors on the waxed objects still vibrant
"Maiathreen, Livain you should consider sitting at one of the tables and relaxing a bit. Faldirk will keep the peace and we can rest for a day. Take the opportunity and just let yourself be treated like the heros you rightly are today. It is not very often that our presence is so well received, while you might not know the language I guarantee that many of the locals would be interested in a game of cards with a pair of heros. Picking up some phrases here could be helpful when we get further into Iobaria as well."

On seeing the elder's bothersome nature he grins
"You know if you toss him out in the snow I could stick him to the ground. Just something to consider. Also you might find this interesting" The human then proceeding to demonstrate his magic stick, rapidly changing it to various tools one might find useful in the kitchen and passing the object off to a wide eyed local to play with. "Just give it to Faldirk once you are all done.

--------

On being given encouragement to tell something amusing Wallace seems to think for a moment before nodding.
"I think I could tell a tale or two. Though my singing voice is nothing to write home about."

This post is getting kind of big so I'm going to write the actual story in a separate one.


Female Centaur Ranger (Skirmisher/Divine tracker) 4

Kind of big?


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

Just a little bit. What I get for deciding to try and hook each member of our group into doing something at the party. Along with the multiple things I wanted to respond to.


Tadis responds well when the children approach him, he lets them search him thoroughly for this mythical pt of gold that Wallace had so craftily suggest he had. After awhile though each of them appear to have gained a gold piece each, such wealth turned a few heads but at the sight of the children being captivated by Tadis's tricks and words they merely leave them to be entertained.

Those who actively watch Tadis - no Perception required:

He performs a number of simple tricks, making coins appear out of hair or clothing pockets where he waves his hand past a moment before. Making digits on his hand appear to detach and then reattaching them with all the flair of a roadside magician. The children appear completely enthralled by him and when he allows them to keep the coins their excitement reaches all new heights.

1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20

Those watching Tadis Perception 20:

Not a stitch of clothing moves with his tricks, as though the coins were there already. His movements are so finely controlled.

Only by watching very, very closely are some of his tricks revealed as nothing more then simple sleights of hand.

Will add more in a bit heading back to camp atm.


Female Centaur Ranger (Skirmisher/Divine tracker) 4

Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (20) + 9 = 29 Did I really need a nat 20 for this?


Only because he did well on his rolls lol. Sorry for wasting your nat 20 xD


Female Centaur Ranger (Skirmisher/Divine tracker) 4

Glad to be free of the infernal itch of the muskwood smoke, Rhavenna’s mood improves substantially, bolstered by the Elder’s compliments. Used to odd looks in predominantly human areas, the centauress appreciates the fact that the stares and gazes are more curious than hostile. Unable to restrain the grin that slips across her features at the children’s bold curiosity she makes it clear to their parent that she takes no offence.

As Wallace begins to lay it on about the Elder’s regard for her ability she rolls her eyes, though the blish in her cheeks extends down her neck and shoulders. ”So you think I should offer people who’ve had problems with centaurs in the past, an opportunity to lose to me in arm wrestling, and that won’t be taken as me trying to establish superiority or some such nonsense. Do you ever think about things before you start talking?” she mutters to her teammate.

As more and more food was laid in front of her, she couldn’t help chuckling at the fact that the cooks seemed to have taken her need to consume more than the average humanoid as a challenge, the fare quite enjoyable and the Cyser mead delicious.

Watching Tadis entertain the children, Rhavenna is fascinated, not only by the sight of the mountain of a man taking to them with such ease, but his almost unimaginable skill with sleight of hand, leaving them al stunned by his feats of “magic.” Finding herself smiling far more than she had in some time, she slowly feels the tension of the recent life and death battle slip away.


Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10,

Maiathreen can't help but remain aloof detached from the party. His eyes closed almost as if he couldn't bear to watch the happiness.

:You cut your self of from all that is enjoyable don't you...: He hears a dark voice whisper in his mind.

:There is much more to life than hard drink and useless parties we only did what they were to weak to do.: He snaps back in irritation his eyes flicking down towards his sword.


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

Perception: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (11) + 13 = 24
The priest stops in his social winding for long enough to appreciate the fellow humans artistry
Had I not been practicing for quite some time at seeing hidden acts I might never be able to appreciate the smooth actions in that. An interesting skill, I shall have to ask him about it later.

On rhavenna's rebuke wallace grins and nods
"Yes, you are entirely correct. If you were to offer the option they might feel offended that you were abusing the position of Town Hero afforded you. This would be why you don't offer, however if someone asks you also don't immediately say no. If they ask then it isn't your fault that you are stronger, they know that and asked anyway. I'd also be interested to see if your self assurance at winning proves correct or not the townsfolk might just surprise you. And if they don't ask? Then nothing to worry over." The human states as he glances about the party to see what else he might do.

-------

Wallace shrugs, dusting the surface of the cards. The humans ever present grin dimmed slightly.
Oh surely but those things do help spice up an otherwise bleak time in our journey. Marching in the snow to places unknown with no way to know if our patron plans to betray us is never enjoyable, but liquor and company help you forget it some at least."


Rhavenna - Since you rolled so well on Perception~:

You notice that most of the people in the village are far, far younger then the elder and out of those present you can only see maybe a dozen men who appear to have grey in their beards, one of which is Njul. There are numerous older woman in fact now that you are pying attention you can see that the woman outnumber the men nearly three to one. The older members of the village have hard lines in their faces, especially the men, and old scars likely gained through combat.

The younger members of the hamlet don't appear to have the hardlines as the older and the looks of amusement seemed genuine while as the older members appeared more guarded. The children strangely enough were more or less carefree at this point, enjoying

When asked to translate by Wallace Njul takes a long moment to think it over...

?????:

90: 1d100 ⇒ 100

... before shrugging his shoulders and picking up a small drinking horn and refill his mead. We owe you much, such a task is dull but simple."" He looks to the Elder who nods fractionally to Njul before the man departs to mingle with your companions.

He overhears the conversation between Wallace and Rhavenna though, having been close and mingling but simply says nothing staying out of whatever dispute there was brewing. Njul remains relaxed as he rests one of his hands on his sword belt and takes another long draw on his mead. As the food was brought before Rhavenna he makes certain to translate what each of the woman cooking is saying.

Alot of the comments were merely if she was enjoying the food, as they had never had a hooved one among them before. They talk about her markings, her muscular body, whether she needed to be shoed and even how she slept. The comments were not said in a harsh way but Njul's quick translations made them sound flat compared to the speakers rough accent.

When the woman returned to maintaining their cooking pots Njul takes another long draw from his mead and adds dryly. "The Elder says ya Merc's plan on going to Iobaria then..."


Mai's silent irritation was enough for the people of Stonehedge to steer clear of the pair completely. Minding their own business while Wallace and Tidas provide some entertainment.


The Elder finishes his soup and tosses the bowl into the fire, this act brings an abrupt end to the festivities. "Is there something wrong Elder? Have we displeased you?" One of the younger woman reached out hesitantly as the Elder stood up abruptly. "You've never wronged me..." He places a large hand on the young girls shoulder before turning to address his people. "... if anything I wronged you. Like a coward I watched others fight battles, waiting quietly for death and with the fall of this beast death eludes me again." His eyes flicker to the group of young mercs as he rested his hands on the pommel of the hammers handle. "It's time I return home..."

Njul stops mid translation, all of the older men appear tense momentarily before the Elder raises his hand and waves their intense stares aside. "This is my fight, not yours. It's time the elders of this village rise to lead it. My ancient teachings are long since past aand I have long avoided what I should have done seasons ago."

He reaches down and picks up the hammer in the middle of the handle, turning it horizontal and walks towards Njul. Everyone parted to allow him to pass unhindered. Njul looked more shocked then anything as the Elder held out the hammer to him. "I name you, Njul of clan Hallinheim my successor, may he rule wisely and leave his anger behind him. All Hail Chieftain Njul!" Njul raised his hands slowly and took the hammer from Elder Faldirk as the Elder turned and raised his hand in praise for his successor. every villager of Stonehedge raised their voices in unison hailing Njul's rise to Chieftain and after three powerful shouts the festivities began again. Elder Faldirk spoke with Njul on his new responsibilities and how they are forbidden to follow him when he is gone.

Once he was done speaking to him he leaves the celebrating behind and heads out of the longhouse alone...

Tidas hesitates as the doors shut, looking to the group for guidance..


Female Centaur Ranger (Skirmisher/Divine tracker) 4

Silently studying the festivities, Rhavenna quietly observes the Elder’s actions and moves over to where Tidus stands.

”Something substantial happened to this village years ago. Took the majority of the of fighting age. Notice there’s old women but few greybeards? And the few old ones are covered in scars.” she points out quietly. "This is a major moment for these people. He’s been caretaker of this village, waiting for someone to be ready to take over. I swear he was planning to meet a ‘good death’ facing that thing. Then we showed up.”


Njul watched the Elder go, still holding the hammer and he wasn't alone. All the older members of the village were watching the Elder leave in their own way. Some blatantly and others in a more subtle glancing way. Yet none of them stop him from going.

Tidus nods to Rhavenna, the children having found something else to do but many watched with sad looks and moist eyes as the old warrior departed the longhouse. "Thats what was bothering me, far too many young people and not so many older... I don't understand their words though..." He frowns slightly as he looks at Rhavenna. "Njul wasn't pleased when he first saw you... That look needed no words to describe it." He looks to Njul then with a sidelong glance, Njul was now sitting on one of the stumps with the hammer across his knees as he rested his head on his right fist which was clenched. For all the world he appeared to be pondering something.


Tidus frowns as he considers the last of Rhavenna statement. "He probably was... Njul doesn't look weak yet the Elder kept every fighter below his feet and stood alone. Mayhap its his way but..." He shakes his head. "These clansmen are a different breed, their traditions are too strange for me to guess at."

No one follows after the Elder, leaving him to his business and his business alone. Expression show a sad tinge every now and again and its easy to tell that despite his cold nature he was respected. The small celebration continues in high spirits despite the announcement and eventually Njul begins to act the part of leader. He stands to the side, discussing things with his men and appearing to be making plans with all the noise though its hard to make out what it is they are saying...

Those who venture Outside:

Despite the wind and snow the Elder is clearly visible, heading to the edge of the settlement...


Female Centaur Ranger (Skirmisher/Divine tracker) 4

"I'm used to random hostility. There are some centaur tribes who've been pretty brutal in their dealings with humans. People who can only see 4 legs and assume the same are pretty common." Rhavenna replies, not quite jaded but a tone of mild disillusionment in her voice. "You're right though, they're very different in their ways."


Tidus nods, his frown darkening as he looked towards his feet. "And I am sure they did something to hurt your kind..." He cracks his knuckles as he becomes quiet momentarily. When he does speak again he looks at Rhavenna and slowly his eyes drifted off until he was staring past her. At something only he could see and, by the set of his jaw, he hated greatly. "Hate lacks borders, in Tymon I was reviled by others even though I fighting fairly to gain my freedom. They purposefully sabotaged my fights in an attempt to kill me. You are not alone, though you can't hide what you are."


Female Centaur Ranger (Skirmisher/Divine tracker) 4

"And neither are you anymore." Rhavenna replies, hesitating for a moment before putting her hand on his shoulder. "You get to choose your fights now, and it's no longer you against the world." she says quietly.


"Instead it's us against the world.. "


Tidus nods at Rhavenna's words, visibly relaxing some as he chuckles at Mai's words. "I thought my time with you all would be more painful. But it appears you lead different lives, exciting ones at that. Though I expect that Iobaria will not be so welcoming as these places have been."


Later

The festivities die down and Njul announces that everyone was to remain within the longhouse for now. In the morning they would return to their homes and restore their village once the storm had passed. "... You five are welcome to stay as well. We will house your beast with our own animals." Though the Elder had yet to return from outside and despite the changes in the weather conditions the blizzard remained strong. Heavy snow fell so thickly now, despite the tree canopy above, that visibility was nearly gone.

Many return below and the older men remain up above, although more reasonably armed as they now guarded the upper floor in the former Elder's absence. Tidus spent a portion of the night on watch with these men and all of you were able to sleep soundly, undisturbed by the quiet warriors. The sounds of their whetstones were drowned out by the crackle of the fire and the fading smell of the small feast that had been prepared in celebration earlier. Though the mead flowed freely still, at least the last remnants of it anyway.

Tidus returns for the Bear corpse the next morning...:

None of the villagers venture outside of the Longhouse to retrieve the bear, though following the fallen tree was enough to reach the clearing it didn't prepare those who ventured out for what they found...

... It was gone a massive red stain was the only indication that its corpse had been there at all. With the heavy snowfall all tracks that could have been left behind were buried as was the blood stains which were already filling in as you stood there looking in all directions. Yet despite your best efforts, tracking was all but impossible in this storm and yet it appears it was long gone...

Tidus looked grim as he looked to the others who had come before scanning the tree line openly cursing the thick snow that still obscured your vision. "It simply could not have just got up and walked away..."

The Next Day
The storm continued to rattle the windows of the Longhouse and the people of the village remained confined to it. Only the eldest among the warriors ventured out into the village and returned with a surprising find. alarge mountain ram appeared to have fallen prey to one of the former Elders traps and would provide several meals for the confined villagers. Much to their quiet relief by the way the tension dispersed after the discovery.


Shortly after they had returned with it the former Elder arrived, which seemed to brighten their moods even more. Though he was armed and armored with completely different gear altogether, he was sporting an eyepatch to cover up the bandages that were wrapped around his head to cover up his missing eye. Seeing their activities he appeared to be pleased with the overall mood of his people. Seeing you all gathered together he approached you, a cloak lined at the shoulders with fine fur was now on his back.

"I see Njul showed he bore more wisdom then hatred. Very good." He smiles at Rhavenna, not in a cruel way but obviously as if he thought Njul attacking the group would have been humorous. "Once the storm passes I will accompany you back to your mercenary band. Seeing as we are going the same direction, perhaps it'll be more useful to be together when we reach the Maw." Upon noticing Tidus he pulls out a large sack from out of his otherwise small pack, which was too small for the large sack he pulled out. "A gift for you gladiator!" He tosses them to the floor in front of Tidus, who stares at the Elder in an annoyed way before curiously opening the bag...


The look on Tidus's face was one of complete shock. "Where... Where did you get this!" A look of anger and fury crossed his face as he looked up at the Elder. His tone was less then friendly as he stuttered. "Are you moc-?!"


The Elders laugh cut him off completely as the bag fell away to reveal battered but well made armor. The helmet though appeared to be a mix of a Half-Shaffron intermixed with a classical Centurion styled helm for the lower half though its appeared somewhat more bulky than a helm should. Along with it the battered but serviceable arm guard appeared a mix of heavy metal plates that protected the arm, elbow, forearm and ended in a metal backing for the hand. At the shoulder was a highly raised lip that could deflect a more direct swing for the neck. The body armor appeared to be studded leather.

Aside from armor there was several items that gleamed like steel. The Elder's laugh ended as he pointed to Tidus. "Mock you? Nay, this is a gift for the only gladiator worth my admiration. I had returned to free you but found that the Whitefields had beat me to it. So I aquired your gear for a rather reasonable price. I assumed you would be in need of something better than... Well that." He waves his hand to indicate everything that Tidus was currently wearing. Despite the fact most of it was perfectly useable gear.


Tidus's glare could cut ice as he stared back at the Elder. "You gestured to all of me old one..."


The Elders grin split his face once more. "Because your gear is complete s~&&te." His blunt speech made Tidus grunt in frustration. "If you don't want it then burn it." The Elder shrugs, his amused expression undiminished.


After a long moment Tidus finally picked up the bag and slung its contents over his shoulder. "I can't argue that it wouldn't be better, though the helm was made to mock me... As you probably know Old One." He mumbled the last part more under his breath before adding. "I will... Change over there." He moves off to the only part of the longhouse that appeared sucluded enough for him to put on his old armor.


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

Oh that face. Almost as good as sticking googly eyes onto it.

Party/ Elders leaving
Wallace had turned to watch the elder as he left saying nothing as the man marched into the snow. The human thinking as his allies discussed the events of the day.
"Elder Faldirk did indeed seek death in that last fight, though a long life lead him to think little of the consequences. Were we not to have interfered that bear would have slaughtered the man and the village he kept under his care. I can only hope whatever he seeks out in that storm brings him some peace." The human replies grimly as he looks at the elder humans receeding back.

"And as to our company, regardless of our flaws we found a place in the world. Though I could do with that place having a few less dragons and Ursine terrors."
------

later
The night wears on and Wallace occasionally goes t one of the windows to examine the weather, grinning at the blowing storm.
"Heh.. Hawks going to be livid about the weather conspiring against us like this. I expect he is also miserable in the snow and not currently eating a victory feast." The human comments as he decisively takes a swig of mead.
Wallace seeming to be unconcerned by the strangers around him drinks to the point that he falls asleep next to the fire on a moderately comfortable wooden bench.

--------
Encounter of the Ursine kind

Wallace yawns loudly and cracks his jaw, rolling off the bench to follow Tadis to retrive the corpse. "Titanic bear corpses don't drag themselves after all" he human mutters as he dons his heavy snow gear and give haphazard blessings of resistance to both Rhavenna and Maiathreen.
Endure Elements
The human taking the time to set up Tim to drag a heavy load before heading toward the fallen copse of trees.
Following Tadis Wallace frowns at the state of the snow.
"Well I guess they do get up and walk away. Perhaps it truly was an avatar of Old Deadeye, the god wouldn't want it lying around. A Necromancer could animate it but that raises more pressing concerns as to what such a person is doing here and how strong they must be to raise such a beast."

--------
the next day

Wallace waits for the exchange between Tadis and the elder to die down, the human grinning at the old one as he glances over to Tadis
"I'd be careful elder, all that simmering 'Ulfen-ness' might just boil over. Tadis takes great effort in containing it after all."
*snort* All of me
The human then glancing specifically at the Elders new attire and the bag in interest. "Don't suppose you brought us any concerning momentos of our past and/or useful gifts? Also did you steal the bear? The behemoth beast got up and left otherwise."


Female Centaur Ranger (Skirmisher/Divine tracker) 4

Rhavenna smiles as Faldirk presents Tidus with his old armor. He should be quite a sight in all that.

As Wallace finishes speaking, she shakes her head giving the cleric an annoyed glare. "Really Wallace? These people have fed us, housed us in a blizzard and you ask the man if he's brought us any gifts? Sometimes I really worry what the @#$% is wrong with you."


"Trust me if you find any mementos of our past you'd be better off burying them." Maiathreen says as he buckles Soul Taker around his waist and checks different magical components.


Faldirk's smile never dims as Tidus moves off to equip himself. He laughs at Wallaces abrasive questioning as he speaks. "Afraid not preist. Had I met you in previous years mayhap I possibly would have something for ya but for now I will be a guide. The Maw is treacherous enough without also getting lost in the wood of Iobaria on the far side of the Maw..."

Hearing the bear was gone didn't even cause the old mans face to twitch. "Perhaps it did. Though not by my hand and it appears to be long gone now."


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

"I think I'd be more concerned than pleased were Elder Faldirk to actually have a gift for me. At least Tadis's reaction to his gift I suspect it would be something exceptionally unpleasant and useful enough that throwing it away was foolish. Though he certainly does look like one who might have gifts, perhaps a bit more red to his clothing to get the point across."
Wallace smirks at Rhavenna before looking back to the elder "Your radiant presence will be perfectly fine Elder. I also expect our leader Hawk is going to have an aneurysm when you show up, that will be gift enough for me. Our team in particular seems to have a bad habit of gathering interesting company to come with us. Oh and you don't have any issue with dragons do you? A Silver named Aradacemorn journeys with us to the Maw."
The human looks to the snow packed path that had brought them to this village before turning back to the elder.
"Can you take us to the shrine that is suppose to have caused all this? I am no priest of nature but we are fresh from a victorious hunt. Were anyone to be able to gain an answer from old deadeye without being part of his flock right I suspect Ravenna would be the one. It would be good to know if the deity was appeased at the very least. A Misfortune from the Huntsman is the last thing we need traveling the Maw."


Mai's words seem to catch the Elder off guard and he looks at him askance. He looks away as Wallace starts speaking, he looks surprised at the talk of a Silver Dragon among the mercenaries but after being asked about taking them to the shrine. "I have no quarrel with dragon kind, silvers are easy enough to handle. but..." He thinks long and hard about approaching the shrine. "Aye, I can. Though best we go now while we have cover." He says this despite the storm still raging outside.


Male Male Human Evangelist cleric 4 HP 40/44 AC:17/13/14 F+7/R+4/W+9 Init+3 Perception+13

The human furrows his brow the unasked question of Cover from what? obvious enough for Wallace to wait for the elder to speak on the topic rather than ask.
"It will take me a few moments to get ready, while my companions have bodies types that make magic protections necessary I find my cold weather gear to be enough. We were engulfed in a battlefield between Ice harpies and something else recently, the down and broken feathers make for excellent filling."
With that the human looks to his allies
"If any of you object to visiting the shrine tell me now, otherwise I am going to ready Tim."

Let me guess the shrine is a tower in the middle of the forest. Like this one

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