Manos blinks as Helgash tells why they are here. Finally he has some understanding of what is at stake! 'Eternal winter? Not something that I would wish on anyone, not even a Cheliaxan.' He thinks to himself.
I'm really jonsing for hot cider.
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Baub decides to make an offer, "My Lord Commander," Baub says to draw attention and bows. "Should you decide to send your grand bird with these adventurers, I would ask for the opportunity to play escort. It would be a great honor and it would give me the opportunity to study our visitor's culture."
Unable to stop herself, Duardlara holds up a cautionary hand, ”Please note that we don’t know the objective of our travel here. The crows seemed to indicate a spur and a horn and a double-headed eagle were related to our destination. Those we seem to have found here. What we need to do at each destination has required investigation, so I hesitate to assume that it is so obvious. Of course, if you wish for your mage to accompany us while we visit your lands, that’s understandable.”
She pauses, ”Are any of you aware of anything that Grandmother would have shown interest in around here in the past?”
Amereth listens in an intense silence but you see her nod her head accordingly to Helgash's words and powerful speaking voice.
Calissus likewise stays silent through most of the tale from Helgash. However when he is finished she raises her hand to speak and when called upon rises to her feet. You are all strangers here and come at a tumultuous time. I am hesitant to accept you at your word yet you speak with conviction and sincerity that I am forced to believe you. While your own goals may differ from ours that does not mean that we can not work together. When finished she sits quietly back down and waits for the others to finish speaking.
Herjan hears Helgash start to speak and rolls his eyes. You can tell by the scars he proudly bears and his manner that the Council is a duty that he bears stoically but without passion. Yet even then it seems that Helgash's words stir him to pay closer attention especially when Baub mentions going with them. He also dutifully rises to his feet to speak and looks first at Baub and then the others before eventually finishing at the Commander. We absolutely can not let Baub the Great go with them while we are under siege. We need ever man and dragonkin to defend our home and the Skyfire Mandate. Perhaps once the siege is broken then we can discuss this matter at that time. We should be talking about what to do to break the siege and strategies, not discussing strange magics that do not deal with us. As he finishes the last line Commander Pharamol raises an eyebrow as clearly he knows something more that he has not shared about strange magics.
Jarilne stays seated the entire time buts turns her milky white eyes towards you as you all speak. You are not sure if she can see you or not but are certain that nothing passes without her knowing about it none the less. Especially it seems that she knew what Duardlara was whispering to Helgash. She foregoes the talk about the siege or the eagle as she concentrates on other matters that perhaps only she knows about. Addressing DuardlaraI have heard of 'Grandmother', the 'Crone', the 'Winter Witch' and many more names for Baba Yaga. Her realm is not merely dealing with Irrisen but all areas that can bring a cold chill to her frozen heart. Long ago in my youth I was adventurous like you are. In that time I travelled far and wide and saw many things. The most peculiar of all was a Hut with the legs of a chicken. I dared not enter too far but stole inside and peered passed the second door. Inside was a realm unlike any I could have expected. Now tell me true to prove you are who you say you are and what you have said is true. What was inside the Hut?
Nevra is one of the few at the council table that smiles at you as you begin to speak. She seems more trusting and open than the others and responds favorably to you as you talk. They must be telling the truth as who else could make up such an outlandish story like that and speak it so clearly and succinctly. Let us welcome them with open arms as peaceful travelers rather than the harbingers of war that some may deem them.
Sumira frowns with concern over the party as they explain their woes to the council. Her heart yearns to help you return to your home and aid you with protecting it. My brothers and sisters. Can't you see that theirs is a pilgrimage and quest to keep their lands and homes free from tyranny and oppression. Are we not striving to do the same here against our enemies. Let us give them what aid we can in the form of food, winter gear, and a place to sleep for a few nights before they continue on in their search for answers. It is the least we can do for them. You notice however that she does not offer to give up the eagle as clearly that is Commander Pharamol's private possession.
Talsune clears his deep throat as he stands and paces about the council chambers. I am in agreement with Herjan on this. Now is not the time to be discussing the aid or lack there of to strangers when there is an army at our doorstep. Unless they are willing to join our cause and join the Spurhorn militia I see no reason not to thank them for their time and send them away from here.
Thronull nods his head with Talsune, Well spoken sir. However I think that instead of letting them leave we should keep them here and corroborate their story more in depth. We should see if another one of us besides Bescaylie can make it to this Hut and confirm its existence and their story. Once confirmed then we can let them walk around as they so choose...but not until then. Until then they must be escorted everywhere and treated as dignitaries but nothing further.
Zusk looks closely at you as if he is judging for himself how deadly and formidable you all are. Before I weigh your case and judge your story I wish to know what you saw and experienced on the way to Spurhorn. What did you face or fight on the way here. What was the manner of the encounter and what numbers were you fighting against.
Commander Pharamol remains impassive at the head of the table as the rest speak their piece. He then indicates for the rest of you to answer any doubts or objections before he gives his final word.
In response to Jariline, Duardlara offers, "The Hut is a mystical place, far larger inside than it appears on the outside. It is capable of magically transporting one vast distances and contains rooms upon rooms. Truly, it seems to be more in control of our travels than we are, but I believe that is because we are following Baba Yaga's inscrutable plan, many years, if not centuries, in the making. It seems that different locations outside the hut influence how it appears within. A snowy mountainside makes the interior look like a wooden cabin, for example. A door that was present in the wall when you were within a great city is no longer present in the cabin. Or perhaps a door that you have never seen suddenly appears when the Hut's decor changes. It is a strange and powerful artifact and not an experience for the faint of heart. Those that watch with wondering eyes will be endlessly fascinated, I wager."
She pauses, "So in truth, I have no idea what you might have seen when you peered therein, because I don't know if it's ever looked the same twice."
Well besides the ones you saw chasing us here, we managed to avoid these..demon things. I'm not up on my demon lore but I reckon they have more of them in their army.
”To expand on Jetro’s remarks, we evaded a patrol of frost drakes during our approach to the wall, but had to fight a trio of daemons. I must defer to Cynehelm as to their exact nature as I was not familiar with them. They did burn nicely and provided Jetro with fine target practice, but that’s really all I know.”
Helgash listens to the Council, and then to his companions, turning to address Talsune specifically - "What if we offered our assistance to your forces? We are all more than capable, resourceful and strong combatants" - he adds, looking back at his companions, then again at the council members - "Would you then look favorably upon our request?"
Jarilne purses her old lips as Duardlara explains what the Hut may have in store for her. When a vague description is given instead of anything concrete she sighs, I fear you may be right but if so then it is hard to validate what you say to what I have seen. However I know the mother of Witches is tricky, devious and a changing world would fit her. You have my support.
Zusk looks closely at the bow that Jetro carries and moves over to the far side of the room. Taking his dagger he scratches an tiny X on the wall. With the commanders permission I would like to see just how well you can shoot with that bow of yours. 2 shots is what I am asking from you. The first from the other side of the room. The second from the same position but with me and her pointing to Greta, arm wrestling between you and the target.
str
Arms crossed over her chest, Greta nods at Zusk - "Very well, I accept your challenge" - the fierce woman moves forward with a glint in her eyes - "I expect you chose me because you want a challenge. I will make sure you are not disappointed"
Jetro squints at the mark on the wall. I reckon that I can do that. takign his position, Jetro draws his bow and sights down it before letting two arrows fly.
The flailing limbs throw off his second arrow.[b]Or maybe not
"Your people are valiant, Commander," says Cynehelm. "But the folk of Golarion have much to offer. Surely we can help each other."
"Besides, if we fail you have lost little, but if we succeed then you've gained something for free." Manos adds helpfully.
Duardlara's ears perk up . "What can you tell us about this camp? Numbers, defenses? I expect it must be a formidable challenge to cause you to hesitate in attacking."
Zusk grunts with effort as Greta eventually beats him in the arm wrestling match. So intent was he on the test of strength that he did not see the results of Jetro's archery skills. However he stands up to inspect the shots before turning back to proclaim his verdict on the party. This woman here is a fine warrior and has great strength. She could hold a chokepoint herself against an army if they could only come at her 1 at a time.
Pointing at Jetro he continues on. His eye is keen and aim fast and true but it seems his concentration wavers in the midst of a commotion. We should keep him in the back to fire upon their archers and spell casters but limit his targets to unengaged foes only in fear that he might injure one of us. I agree to letting them help us in the coming days.
A few of the others murmur their consent now that Zusk seems to have approved of you. After Baub chimes in about sending the group on a strike mission there is another set of discussion as the council talks amongst themselves for a bit. Eventually Commander Pharamol stands before you to weigh in on the matter and settle the situation. during the speech he addresses you and the council. The opposing army is vast and outnumbers us greater than 20 to 1. While a strategic strike to cut off the command would deal a solid blow to them I am not sure such an offensive would work. Reports are coming in that their army is listless and we expect an attack soon. If they are rash and rush into our defenses then hopefully we can thin their numbers and repel them back. Once that happens then we can send you on the counter attack.
He holds up his hand to silence any objections. Further more I will agree to aiding you directly in your search for Baba Yaga. His voice lowers, A long while back I was travelling when I approached a small hamlet. There an old woman gave me the eagle and told me that others would come for it one day. I did not understand it at the time and tried to refuse but as soon as the cage was handed to me and I touched it the woman disappeared. In honor of helping to defend our home I grant you access to our armory and magical reserves. Upon breaking of the siege I will grant you the eagle in repayment.
If you agree to these terms then I will have Baub lead you to some rooms that you may use while you are here along with special rings to be upon your hands. These rings will allow you to dimensionally travel in Ironspur and not get sent to our dungeon. I suggest you rest and recover till such time that we may have need of you.
Helgash looks around at his companions after listening - finding no contrary opinions, he turns back to Pharamol - "We agree" - he replies - "And we shall prove our worth" - the paladin adds.
Having reached an agreement the party separates from the council to find a place to rest and relax. A few of you make your way to the armory and magical stores and find a few discarded items that you can use to help out in the coming siege. Also each of you are given the iron ring to allow teleportation upon the ramparts. It still won't work inside the fortress but at least you can respond as needed when the time comes. For now though you have a moment to relax and catch your breath and heal up form your journey...but for how long it is uncertain.
Zzznnoreee
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Baub, highly interested in the visitors, makes himself available to show them around and answer any questions. Having never visited another location, he tries to work in questions about where team is from to include basic stuff like flora, fauna, seasons, people, etc. He tries to remain cognizant of being a bother so as to not upset anyone. For those who like to talk he engages, for those who don't he respectfully leaves them to their contemplations.
Duardlara is a willing participant in Baub’s conversations, but is not as diplomatic as Helgash. She pumps Baub for information, as well, seeing it as only fair to exchange what they know, but is a bit abrupt about it when she gets excited about a new topic.
Very early on the fourth morning since your arrival the sounds of trumpets and horns blare as sentries call the alarm of enemies at the ramparts. The blizzard like conditions the night before allowed the army to climb unnoticed up the sheer ice like walls of Spurhorn. The sever wind hid the sounds of the assaulter ice picks and hammers pounding pitons into the ice. As such it was without warning that the enemy was at the doorstep before the defenders noticed them.
Upon the first call of the horns Commander Pharamol sent you a message via sending spell telling you to hurry to the western tower. Frost drakes and barbarians assaulting towers by air. Protect the siege engines till reinforcements arrive and try to save the crew. Stay till further updates.
Hurrying out into the freezing cold the distant morning sun provides only dim light, and snow is falling. All creatures have concealment (20% miss chance) from those without darkvision, and the reduced
visibility results in a –4 penalty on Perception checks and a –4 penalty on ranged weapon attacks. Yet even in the dim light you can see the shape of a large creature land on the tower and begin to attack the crew stationed there.
Orgar
Cynehelm
Helgash
Jetro
Duardlara
Baub
frost drake
barbarians
Jetro starts rushing to the top
Yes quick free speech is allowed
They face out from the keep so as long as you are inside the fortress walls then you would be okay
Manos makes haste to get to the requested area, once closer he will look for the chance to slip into the shadows as he prefers.
Duardlara rests a hand on Manos' arm. "They say the anti-invisibility effect is only outside the walls. Let's try this again."
She casts greater invisibility on Manos . She will follow him up the stairs, pausing before she reaches the top to cast greater invisibility on herself.
Orgar sees the threat and moves over to Helgash and Greta waiting for Baub to work his magic.
The barbarians and frost drake tear into the seige equipment trying to damage them beyond repair. However the seige engines are solidly built and don’t break...yet.
Helgash and Greta wait fo Baub who moves up and touches them instantly transporting them to the top of the tower. Duardlara casts greater invisibility on Manos as she hopes to let the fun begin for him. Then Manos runs forward to get within firing range.
Before joining Baub, Helgash calls forth a blessing from Iomedae, to bolster him and his companions.
"Thank you Baub" - the paladin nods.
With a nod and a grunt at Baub, Greta launches herself at the closest drake - "Let us do this!"
Greta attacks 2 times and hits with both blows of the greatsword drawing great gouts of blood with each powerful stroke. She definitely managed to prevent the drake from attacking the war machines and focus on her.
Cynehelm begins to summon some help from another plane.
Cynehelm begins casting a spell to summon some allies. Orgar continues his trek to the tower and makes his way inside ready to climb the stairs and reach the top next time.
The frost drake lashes out at Greta who injured it so severely. With power the teeth and tail snap at the women with the bloody blade.
power attack bite for
power attack tail for
The tail misses but the bite latches onto Greta's arm, teeth piercing armor and sinew to bring forth blood turning the frost drakes mouth crimson.
The barbarians see the carnage from Greta and the Drake but focus still on the siege engines before them. They know their orders and what fate has in store for them should they fail but still live.
first light ballista
second light ballista
The southern ballista snaps dangerously as the powerful barbarian hacks off more of the wooded support mechanism. Another round of such damage would likely be enough to finish the siege engine. To the north the structure of that seems a bit more robust but will soon give way as well.
Jetro keeps climbing the stairs!
Realizing that, Duardlara will whisper to the archer as she moves past, drawing the short sword, "Draw them to you - I will stay low and left of your firing lane, just keep your arrows above the waist. If one attacks you, I will strike him."
Jetro takes a shot at the one gnawing on Greta
Moving up the stairs this round.