GM thunderspirit's Reign of Winter AP

Game Master thunderspirit

Davosh looks all around, but since cauldrons are scarce, there are none to be found.

Talsune bows his head. I am saddened to hear of this. Edward Fell, with no partner, has seemed a trustworthy sort, especially in service to Zumlzi, whom he calls Apsu.

These dracolisks are relatively new to us, he replies, and I am afraid I do not know how to help. But Jarilne is wise, perhaps ask her and she can assist, or she can help find an answer.

"Jarilne? Is she.... cauldron shaped? No matter. Bring me to her so that I may turn Edward from stone to flesh!"

Davosh looks all around, but since cauldrons are scarce, there are none to be found.

Talsune bows his head. I am saddened to hear of this. Edward Fell, with no partner, has seemed a trustworthy sort, especially in service to Zumlzi, whom he calls Apsu.

These dracolisks are relatively new to us, he replies, and I am afraid I do not know how to help. But Jarilne is wise, perhaps ask her and she can assist, or she can help find an answer.

Ali pluckily whisks Davosh back to the tower. Kappi turns to ask Vojtek a question, but sees the Northman is already gone, bounding after the elf and warlock. Instead Kappi turns to Talsune, who is gazing after the trio.

Are they always this impulsive? Talsune asks.

Oh, no, Kappi says assuredly. Sometimes they're much, much worse.

Ah.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++

The pair follow along behind, through the tower back to Jarilne's quarters. As before, she is there waiting for the group. Jarilne cannot see the headless dracolisk in the corner of her room, nor the statue within, but you definitely get the feeling she would not be impressed by it at all.

She turns her blind face toward Ali and Davosh. You have returned.

"With a victory! Obviously. Unfortunately one of our number needs to bath in the blood of vir--- uhhh dracolisks. We've got PLENTY of that. We need Edward. He's a valuable member of our ka-tet. Help us. Please."

Vojtek wonders silently if repairing broken armor might be among her mysterious skills. He's not typically shy or modest, but he is glad she is blind because he's pretty sure his dragonballs are showing.

I do not possess the wherewithal to help you myself, Jarilne says, but I can speak to one who may. She purses her lips and gives a whistle, but no sound appears to come out. Liska evidently hears something, though, and burrows deep into Davosh's cloak to escape the sound.

Jarile's breath crystalizes into a large whitish-blue gem, slowly spinning in front of her suspended in mid-air. Her mouth changes slightly, and Liska lets out a pained yip and covers her ears as the gem shatters into ice-blue fragments and dust.

In an instant, a 10-foot tall blue humanoid wearing elaborate robes materializes. Its alien face has too many eyes, and its hands have too few fingers.

Jarilne! it bellows. Why have you summoned ZILVAZARAAT THE MAGNIFICENT to Triaxius again? What do you seek? And who are these fine persons with you? I have never met them before!

The Varisian lad has seen many strange sights in his short life. While he has started to become accustomed to such oddities and horrors, something about this was a little too much. Too many eyes and weird features on the face of the great blue being. When Kappi cast his gaze low he caught way too much of a glimpse of the barbarian’s huge balls. sweet Desna, that should not look like THAT! Something terrible must have happened during the fight, perhaps while I was unconscious? What horror has caused such swelling and color… The young rogue shakes the thoughts from his head and tried to remember instead the cold beauty of the wolf blooded woman. He hoped no one would call upon him while he day dreamed of better things.

"Salutations. I am Davosh, a man of keen intelligence and possessed of specific will. By the transitive property of equality, I deduce that you can turn our friend back to flesh and blood from stone. Yes?"

Jarilne holds up her hand. You tread the correct path, Davosh and their partner Liska, but you have not yet found the entrance.

Jarilne turns toward the massive humanoid. You remember me from when you were younger, yet I was older. These streams pass each other in opposite directions. But I have need of your services, as I will again in my future, when first we meet. I seek a scroll with ancient runes, to undo what has been done in your future. She makes a gesture with both hands that is foreign to you, but Zilvazaraat the Magnificent understands at once.

Ah! the blue-skinned giant says with a laugh. Of course! And in return...?

Jarilne holds up a red gem. Davosh and Ali both realize it radiates strong conjuration magic, but it is whisked away before either can identify the spell it holds. Done! Zilvazaraat reaches into a satchel behind them and pulls out a leather bandolier with a trio of long, pointed icicles fastened securely to it. Each of these can become the magic you need, up to a moderate aura. Turning to the party, Zilvazaraat opens his arms wide. And you, little ones! What can ZILVAZARAAT THE MAGNIFICENT do for you?

Ali blinks, only mildly surprised (thanks mostly to the nature of her present company having inured her to most shocks) at the turn of events.

Sir, our companion was petrified by magic. We need a dweomer that will restore his Stone to Flesh. Is this within your power?

Fear not, children of Golarion, Jarilne says, for I have secured egress for your friend already. She points to the bandolier with icicles strapped to it. Here.

Fear not, children of Golarion, Jarilne says, for I have secured egress for your friend already. She points to the bandolier with icicles strapped to it. Here.

Ah yes...sorry, I was dense and no coffee yet today!!

Ali blinks again, this time in recognition. AH YES!! Mister Magnificent himself!! Fascinating that the villain we call "Time" seems to treat you differently than it does anyone else I know...but pray, do you have new wares this time??

Vojtek turns and mouths a question to Kappi about Egrets. Egrets?

He seems to be on the verge of asking this being to fix his broken armor, but Davosh's Eye rolls once in his direction (Independent of the other eye, his attention, and the rest of his head) and with near tangible force shuts the barbarian's gob.

Vojtek turns and mouths a question to Kappi about Egrets. Egrets?

He seems to be on the verge of asking this being to fix his broken armor, but Davosh's Eye rolls once in his direction (Independent of the other eye, his attention, and the rest of his head) and with near tangible force shuts the barbarian's gob.

Kappi whispers back I guess those things are on this world too…. The lad shrugs his shoulders.

GM thunderspirit wrote:

Fear not, children of Golarion, Jarilne says, for I have secured egress for your friend already. She points to the bandolier with icicles strapped to it. Here.

Ah yes...sorry, I was dense and no coffee yet today!!

Ali blinks again, this time in recognition. AH YES!! Mister Magnificent himself!! Fascinating that the villain we call "Time" seems to treat you differently than it does anyone else I know...but pray, do you have new wares this time??

This time...? The mercane looks confused for a moment, then brightens and gives an unnerving smile.

But of course! Zilvazaraat bellows. Have a look!

While Zilvazaraat is showcasing his wares, Jarilne takes an icicle from the bandolier and turns it over in her hands. In turn, the party notices she runs her fingers across the surface of the icicle, which has raised runes across it, and repeats what her touch reveals. It is an incantation that turns into a spell.

At first nothing seems to happen, but then Edward's stone transforms back into flesh and he is whole again!

The Varisian lad gawks for only a moment in amazement. But then quickly steps forward with a wineskin outstretched to Edward. Your throat must be awful dry. Kappi says earnestly.

"HA! Edward! You're flesh! This is excellent! I forbid you from doing that again young man."

Starting to get my bearings again. Sadly, I can't find the PPT version of the story summary.

Starting to get my bearings again. Sadly, I can't find the PPT version of the story summary.

Do you mean the THE STORY SO FAR link at the top of the page? Or the original you put that together from? (Can't help much with the latter.)

Vojtek tugs gently at Kappi's sleeve, and when he catches his eye, he inclines his head back to the fellow downstairs. It seems to Vojtek he won't be getting his armor fixed in this area. Vojtek backtracks. He stands quietly and looks for someone who looks like they could assist him.

Davosh the Wanderer wrote:

Starting to get my bearings again. Sadly, I can't find the PPT version of the story summary.

Do you mean the THE STORY SO FAR link at the top of the page? Or the original you put that together from? (Can't help much with the latter.)

The original. The link goes to a pdf, which means I can't add slides

The first breath starts as a deep inhaling gasp, but his lungs were full so it sounds like a choke.

Ed tries to speak, but the voice is just a gravely garbeled jibberish. He is covered with granite dust mixed with the dried blood the beast he was shoved in. His eyes dart around the room, and he starts to get that dry throat cough.

Finally Ed just stops and concentrates tilting his head back and gets drenched by a torrent of water for an impromptu shower. Catching some in his mouth he swishes it around spits most of it out and swallows the rest.

Thank you all! My humble apologies for falling in combat. I will strive to do better in the future. He looks the Ka'tet over for injuries. Each of you feel the familiar bond snap in place as Ed reestablishes his life link. Ed lets out a small sigh, he relaxes feeling comfort in the bonds.

He turns around and with a deep bow. Jarilne of the Spurhorn Council, leader of the Ice Seers. Thank you for freeing me. I am indebted to you.

Thank you all! My humble apologies for falling in combat. I will strive to do better in the future.

Ali steps forward and gives Ed a hug. Stop that! Everyone hits bad luck from time to time. We're just fortunate to have you back!

"Indeed. Edward it is good to see you back as a meatsack.... so to speak. I think, finally, we can catch our breath."

Davosh looks around, oblivious to the situation, to others, to the state of the combat, and to his finances.... "So, did we win?"

Jarline invites the mercane for a spot of tea and recommends you to visit with Commander Pharmol. You owe no debt to me, Edward Fell with no partner, Jarilne says simply to the Oradin, without elaboration.

Vojtek is uncertain about this, with the state his armor is in, but obviously Jarilne cannot see this. Kappi retrieves a leftover cloak – not a holocaust cloak, sadly – and the Northman's modestly is returned somewhat.

Thank you Lady Ali'yanah Ed bows his head towards the crimson haired elf.

Meat? Sack? Ed mumbles to himself with his eyebrow raised, then it dawns on him what Davosh means in his own special way. Thank you as well Davosh.

Ed bows towards Jarline. Understood, but some debts are self imposed.

Yes lets speak with the Commander, and Vojtek if you can give me 10 minutes with your armor I can start repairing it. Mending spell

Hurrying up the tower, the Golarions make their way to Commander Pharmol's office. He and his partner Amerenth both appear in good spirits; indeed, when the Commander sees the party, he grasps Vojtek's forearm and pats Kappi on the back, nodding to Ali and then Davosh before...

But hold! Edward with no partner, among the quick again? How can this be?!

"Battle takes its toll. Do not send for whom the bell tolls, however. It tolls for thee. Edward fell to a foe, but through magic has returned. His partner.... I think you ask a question you know the answer to. The question now is what happens next."

Indeed, well said, Commander Pharmol says. With your help, we have won a great victory. We should enjoy this. Get some rest tonight, enjoy the morrow. and join us in the council chambers after the evening meal. Shall we say, two hours after dark?

Vojtek feels a stirring at his side and with a start realizes Davosh is peering into the man's belt pouch with intense interest. As the Speaker of the Ancients fondles the supple leather sack with one hand, he begins poking around the interior with a strange glass rod. The rooting and examining intensifies and when Vojtek starts to respectfully object, Davosh presses the glass rod to the barbarian's lips to shush him without taking his attention from the pouch.

Vojtek stiffens a bit with frustration at the strange man's liberties and outlandish interpersonal skills. But alas the Ancestors deserve our respect and deference, so Vojtek resigns himself to the intrusion.

With arcane mutterings, a sidebar or two with unseen interlocutors, and several pieces of Vojtek's best jerky taken as payment, Davosh starts furiously scribbling in the air with the glass rod. With The Eye rolling wildly as the scribbling intensifies, Vojtek hovers between Curious and Concerned.

By this time, Kappi's interest has been piqued and the Varisian peers with interest over Davosh's shoulder. These goings on remind the lad of the antics his people might get up to with a hat placed out for an odd coin to be tossed in on the street. But for the buskers it was show and misdirection. For Davosh it was something else entirely. Eldritch energy seemed to emanate from the man in staticky waves.

Finally, with a flick of his wrist reminiscent of Varisian legerdemain, Davosh pulls a folded piece of paper out of thin air. He opens it, examines the spidery scrawl upon it, and hands it to Vojtek solemnly.

"Take this to Zilvazaraat my boy. Offer him what coin he demands, and do so with the blessings of the Ancestors. Then wear what he gives you. Speak no more of this!" With a cackle of unbridled mirth, he turns and scuttles away. But as he takes his leave, The Eye maintains an unblinking stare on Vojtek and Kappi, almost daring them to defy.

They do not.

"Ahh some archaic terms written in a long-dead script... Who bade you bring this to me, young man?"

Kappi starts to respond to Zilvazaraat, but the being turned to a cloud of smoke before his eyes...

Kappi looks nervously around. He starts to ask Davosh but after the strange ministrations Ojos Locos performed on Vojtek…. The lad shakes his head and turns to ask the elven magus for help. After awkwardly shifting in front of Ali for a moment she waves him forward. Ali, it seems like years ago I bought these two scrolls to let me see the dark permanently. Do you think there is someone here that can cast it for me?

Ali looks at the scrolls with a scrunched brow. I could do the Darkvision for you, but the Permanency is over my head. I'll bet someone here would do it, for a price...

Kappi starts to respond to Zilvazaraat, but the being turned to a cloud of smoke before his eyes...

In place of the cloud of smoke, Kappi finds a nondescript carrying bag bearing a tag – For the Angry One – and a small velvet pouch.

"I am getting a feeling.. Either I must empty my bladder, or there is more to do, and conversation to be had..."

Kappi takes Jarilne aside, and the seer is only too happy to use a permanency spell on the Varisian's darkvision, once cast by Ali. The lad marvels at how his view goes from color to black-and-white based on the surrounding light.

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

The group sleeps soundly for the first time since arriving on Triaxus (except Liska, who has never found sleeping on this planet problematic) and much of the next day is spend basking in the glow of being hailed as heroes. Members of the Dragon Legion all appear eager to get a glimpse of The Golarions Who Helped Save Spurhorn (trademark pending) and even sour-faced Thronull gives the quintet acknowledgement at the victory. I have never been so wrong, in all my life.

Talsune learns that Edward is back among the living and flies to meet the group in the midst of the courtyard around midmorning. Praise to Zumlzi, Edward with no partner, you live! He is positively beaming at the Oradin. I am pleased that you were able to convince me I was wrong about you. I did say that I wanted to be wrong!

Nevra, as is her wont, allows you to find her walking the walls instead of seeking you out. Ah, Golarions, it is pleasant to see you. We owe you thanks for your assistance in holding our keep.

After the evening repast, the Spurhorn Council reassembles in the chamber: Commander Pharmol and their partner Amerenth, Sumira and their partner Calissus, Bescaylie and their partner Efrixes, Nevra with no partner, Talsune with no partner, Thronull, and Jarilne.

We have fought a great victory, though at no small cost, Commander Pharmol begins. The Council bows heads almost in unison.

But there was no sign of Malesinder among the fallen, Pharmol continues. The party recognizes this name from Davosh's commune spell. We must assume she still lives, and this means Spurhorn is out of the flame but still must fear the fire.

Thronull and I propose a plan. He unfurls a map of the mountain range. Malesinder's main supply encampment is Ningward from us, here, he says, pointing to a circled yellow X. But we also know that Malesinder's command post is here, and at this he indicates a boxed yellow X.

An assault on the supply encampment would necessitate a response from Malesinder. He pauses. But if the assault is a feint that might allow a small strike team to hunt Malesinder herself... He turns expectantly to the party.

Thank you Thronull if you will allow me later I would love to lift a tankard with you.

Ed smile grows as he watches Talsune approach. Ed's joy is obvious in meeting him again. Yes Praise to Zumlzi Talsune with no partner. We gesters to himself and Talsune. do live. We knew what was in our hearts, and it is ok to be skeptical especially when you're in a wartime enviornment. I would hope that this means we can be friends forevermore.

On the walls. Neva with no partner, it is good to see you again. We accept your thanks, but you were one of the three that gave us a chance. So my thanks to you in return. May we be friends forevermore.

In the council chambers Ed approaches Sumira, and their partner Calissus. Sumira and their partner Calissus. I want to say thank you again for allowing us the chance to join in the defense of Spurhorn. It was our pleasure to help save lives and repel the invaders.

Ed also catches Bescaylie somewhat apart from the others. Bescaylie and their partner Efrixes, forgive my forward nature, but I was looking for Zusk and their partner Herjan. I need to thank them for their vote in allowing us to help. Are they ok? Is there anyway I can help?

Perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14
Survival: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (3) + 9 = 12

Ed glances at the rest of the Ka'Tet already knowing the answer. Yes we can hunt down Malesinder, it would be our pleasure to do so. Especailly if you can divert some of their forces with a feint.

perc: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9
int: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5

Perception 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (16) + 16 = 32

Survival 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9

The Varisian lad notices Zusk’s absence. He sits figiting for a few moments trying to decide what to do. He glances to his older “brother” Vojtek at his left side. But quickly realizes the Northman is not one for finer points at times like this.
On his other side was Ojos Locos. He for once would have preferred Ali sitting close to him. Usually he finds the strange dicotomy of the elven woman unnerving (her exotic elfin beauty but also the fact she is older than his grandmother’s mother…), yet she is a bit more predictable that the strange witch.
Yet, it might be very important.
He casually leans over to Davosh and whispers to inform him of Zusk’s absence.

Bescaylie pulls Edward aside.

INT Check: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21

Davosh, per usual, seems oblivious to the people and actions, but the map speaks to him, "Just....just to make a mental note... The command center appears to be quite near where the Hut brought us. Should our foe locate the Hut and destroy it, we'd be stuck here until our bones were dust and Groetus eats us all as we would have no way of returning to Golarion. Worse still, what if they find it and be able to use it...?"

He pets Liska, "We have direction and need. Let us adjourn to sojourn."

Ed reaches out and places his hand on Bescaylie's shoulder, and if allowed Efrixes's neck.

He lowers his head, opening himself to Apsu/Zumlzi. Careful to keep this a private prayer so as to not disturb other conversations.

Zumlzi, oh god of creation, we mourn the loss of Zusk and their partner Herjan. Like you, they were a source of strength and life, a vital part of the world. We ask for peace for their spirit, a rest from the toil of this mortal realm. May their legacy of being a member of the Spurhorn council, and defender of the same continue to flow within the world, as your waters flow through the earth. Comfort us, Apsu, in this time of sorrow, and help us to find strength in the knowledge that they are at peace with you. This we pray in Zumlzi's name.

Commander Pharmol nods at Davosh's observation. Then you would have reasons beyond lending another hand for this, Davosh and their partner Liska, he says.

You'll need wings, he continues, which is a phrase you've heard before.

The Varisian lad’s interest is very piqued. wings?!?!

"Ha Ha! Wings my boy. wings! Come let us fly posthaste!"

Ed glows with an excitement and anticipation. Apsu is blessing him with such contact with a dragon kin. Zumzi’s blessing is upon us. I would be honored to ride and feel the open sky.

Commander Pharmol nods. Prepare yourselves. We set out at midnight.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++

At the appointed hour, Commander Pharmol addresses the assembled coterie astride Amarenth, in full battlefield attire.

Our assault shall provide you cover, though perhaps only until the ruse is discovered. Strike fast, strike hard, and strike true. I leave it to the trustworthy Sumira and their partner Calissus to find you suitable means to traverse the mountains. With this, Amarenth takes flight, along with a couple dozen dragonkin and riders – Bescaylie and their partner Efrixes among them.

Sumira gazes after, a look of longing on their face, then with a sigh they turn back to the party. Well. Let's get you ready to go. I am to remain here to defend Spurhorn. With a whirl, the alabaster-clad Sumira turns to a collection of dragonkin and begins to look them over.

Kappi bows politely to the black dragonkin. Also a little nervous, he says nothing. He is pretty sure this is one of those time keeping his mouth shut is the correct move.