Once the half-nymph half-? leaves Variel turns to Venja. That sounds like a prudent suggestion. Who knows what sort of creatures we may find ourselves meeting tonight with this storm. I would hate to have something else come upon us unawares.
The night passes without further incident and those on watch find it hard to stay awake with the wind howling and the flicker of firelight dulling the senses. The storm lasts until midday when it ends with the strongest gust of wind yet. There is a large crashing sound from outside the cave but you cant tell what it is from inside. As the wind dies down though everyone ventures forth to see the noon sun peeking from the mostly overcast sky. The sound of the crashing is readily visible as a large tree was uprooted 50ft away from you.
Nonetheless everyone is refreshed and ready to continue onwards. Even the 2 men who were injured the day before are doing much better and are able to move around themselves. Nadya oversees the loading of the dogsleds and harnessing of the dogs. Once completed she looks to everyone, Shall we depart for my home? We should be there in a few short hours barring anything unforeseen.
Staring in shock at the uprooted tree, Venja shakes her head slowly. "That must have been a fierce and sudden gust to take down such a sturdy tree. I'm glad we were well-sheltered."
Venja prepares herself for the travel and climbs onto one of the sleds, hopefully the one Beck will be driving and bundles up for warmth on the journey. "I'm ready to go."
on mierul and her intent behind her comments
Before we go, that night after Mierul leaves, Beck gets real close to Nadya and asks quietly, "what's that Pale Tower what she was talkin bout? And why didja have ta lie for us? Who was she? And what is she?"
"Where does she come from," Xanxan mutters.
Gabryjel looks around at the others as they talk about the dancing creature and shrugs.
"We won't find anything out standing here and guessing; maybe the town will have something more useful," he says gathering his gear.
Following Nadya he glances at the others as he moves after her.
"Come on, ya'll - less talking, more walking, eh?" he says with a mild shrug.
I likewise am ready to go. My spells are prepared and I am eager to end this winter traveling. although the dogsleds do make it go that much quicker. I will double up with Anee as she has shown herself capable of handling the sleds. As it seems you are with Beck Venja then that leaves Gabe to ride with Nadya and Xanxan to go with one of the men. Seems like we are all set.
Hopefully Gabe you are right. We could use some better supplies and make ourselves more accustomed to the weather here if we are to stay here any longer.
Beck, you think that should you meet her again like she suggests, she would be willing to entertain you. Of course what that entertainment may be you have no idea. It could be an hour long ballad that she wants you to listen to first to test your commitment.
Nadya sighs and looks at her men and then back to everyone. I have heard the name before, Mierul. All I know is that she is a traveling troubadour that visits each of the winter witches to offer them her services. My guess was that she was heading to the Pale Tower to speak Nazhena. I was hoping to spare you the problem of explaining yourself as strangers in a foreign land. Let us just say that not everyone is as welcoming as myself and there are those who seek out strangers to 'learn' any knowledge they might have of the wider world. Enough of this though. Let us travel while we can.
Mounting the sleds you find yourselves enjoying the trip as you are not racing the weather. The sky is clear with a mild wind from the east.
You notice a black cloud moving towards you high in the sky. It doesn't seem like much until you realize that it is traveling against the wind.
Think of Lord of the Rings with the Fellowship traveling through Hollin on the way to Caradhras when they were overtaken by crebain. That should give you an idea of what it is you are seeing. Video after the comercial
"Well I appreciate ya watchin out for us Nadya" beck saws with a bow and a gulp, thinking about how fey may "educate" themseves.
As they ride...
... thanks entirely to his insight into cold climates and his expanded perception granted by his earnest quest, beck snaps, it's after us! Flyin fast this way, they local here or not, like the giant bug?
Nadya: Indeed they are local and the worst news possible. They are ravens and scouts from the Pale Tower. Quickly before they come this way hide under the canvas with the crates. If we are lucky they will not see you and report to their matters. Curses, what foul luck to have run across one of their patrols. Now get under and don't make a move till I tell you it is clear. They won't worry about myself and my men as we are a regular sight. You on the other hand would only bring about undo attention to yourselves and myself as well for being with you.
Venja hides under the canvas as instructed and hopes the distance plays a factor in not being seen, as hiding is not her strong suit.
If we are moving, and beck is driving the cart with Venja as a passenger, then can we still hide? or will we stop the dogs and wait for the ravens to pass by?
If we are moving or it would be weird for beck to hide, he could use alter self to turn into a human, all wrapped up for the cold, and not out of place... i'd rather save the power tho...
Garbryjel will attempt a stealth check -
Stealth checks for Variel and Aneira.
Variel
Aneira
Aneira, Variel, Venja
Init Aneira +2 in cold
Beck +1/2 level in cold
Gabe
Variel
Venja
Xanxan
Half of the group manages to hide themselves successfully from the prying eyes of the ravens. The others though are not as skilled. Aneira, Variel, and Venja all leave a part of themselves exposed giving away their position on the dogsleds. Circling above the ravens descend on the dogsled that Venja is hiding on. Ripping and tearing at the canvas covering the ravens expose Venja to their beaks and talons.
Knowing full well that the cover was blown the party manages to react quickly to the presence of the raven swarm.
The group is a raven swarm. As a swarm they only take half damage from piercing nd slashing weapons and full damage from bludgeoning weapons. They also take 1.5xdamage from area effect spells.
Raven swarms do automatic amage and can cause blindness with their eye rake ability.
Eye-Rake (Ex) Any living creature damaged by a raven swarm must succeed at a DC i4 Reflex save or be blinded as
the swarm scratches and tears at the victim's eyes. The blindness lasts for id4 days or until healed with remove blindness/deafness or a successful DC 20 Heal check. The save DC is Constitution-based.
Aneira know nature
Use bludgeoning weapons and area spells if you have them and watch out for your eyes. These ravens will make you go blind if your not careful.
Venja rolls off the sled and away from it so as not to damage the sled and throws down an alchemist fire at point blank on herself (assuming the swarm is still around her... if not she throws it AT the swarm), willing to take the damage herself if necessary to destroy the swarm of ravens.
At aniera's warning, Beck briefly considers augmenting his club, but instead proceeds to simply attack. "Oye now, that's enough o' that!
for
and sheelah snaps and swats at the flying birds
for
for
for
Aneira likewise throws an alchemist fire at the swarm after seeing what great affect it has on them.
x2
crit confirm
x2
Not ready for such a retaliation, the ravens quickly become disorganized from the onslaught of fire from Venja and the perfect throw by Aneira followed by the club of Beck. Another hit with fire would surely disperse the flock
Xanxan eyes his rapier, not a blunt weapon. He glances at his dagger and sighs. He considers his crossbow I'm just going to have to carry one of everything. But where will I put it?
Seeing things about to disperse, he leaves it be.
Gabryjel pokes his head out from under the blankets and takes a poke at the raves with his bare hands –
The last of the birds are driven back with only a couple able to fly away uninsured. What was once a swarm is only a few scattered ravens just trying to flee the area. Nadya looks at everyone with a grim look on her face. I don't know whether to be glad that they are gone for now or worried. When their presence is missed there will definitely be some further searching and questions asked. Being broken up like this prevents the from returning and giving a detailed report of what they found. If that was the case then we would have soldiers arriving in 2 days time looking for you. We better make the best of it while we can though.
Gabryjel wipes the crushed beak and feathers from his hands onto the snow, cleaning them carefully. He watches the few birds scatter to the wind and smiles a bit at their departure.
As he dries his hands on his trousers, his ears perk up a bit at the words that their guide is saying.
...If that was the case then we would have soldiers arriving in 2 days time looking for you. We better make the best of it while we can though.
He cocks his head thoughtfully.
”Soldiers? What kind of soldiers?” he asks.
”I mean what are we talking – regular army, militia or some sort of mercenary faction that works for the gods damn witch who sent them poxing birds,” he says.
He glances to their vanishing retreat.
”Seems to me that some basterd decided to attack us for some reason – which they did; whoever did that, if they want to send soldiers, that means that they either got an army, or they’re a bunch of lads hired for special jobs…”
”If they’re regular army – how tough are they? And if they’re merc’s – what are we talking about? Miners and farmers doing a little sell-sword action on the side; or are we dealing with something a little more… potent?” he querries.
”Just trying to get a handle on what’s going down is all – and what we’re dealing with,” he adds as he hops back on the dogsled.
Well honestly I don't know for sure what you would call them. They could be soldiers, guards or mercenaries but its all the same to me. They are located at the Pale Tower and come out when the ravens report suspicious behavior or some other 'interesting' find. They are all equipped alike and follow orders so there is some training there but how tough they are? I never want to personally find out. Its better to learn where they are going and why and either avoid that place or avoid them. That much I do know. I don't even know how many there are as patrols go out every so often. There could be 20 to 100 of them.
While she is talking you see that even her men who are tight lipped nod their heads at the description of the 'soldiers'. Clearly people do not want to mess with the Pale Tower's muscle.
Gabryjel nods his head.
"Just wondered if we're looking at some local thugs who do contract work or something more serious."
"Sounds like something more serious..." he adds thoughtfully.
"Uniformed gear and goods - that alone speaks to their power," he muses with a grunt, knowing that - with the exception of wealthy nobles who had a touch of vanity - no actual army could afford formal "uniforms" and that uniformed goods, weapons and gear wouldn't be produced unless they had a massive set of dedicated manpower specifically tasked to producing nothing but military gear.
The fact that these folk seemed to have formal uniforms meant that whoever equipped them was very wealthy, very powerful, and intent on making it clear to the world who was behind any military action.
Means the ruler of this "Pale Tower" is not only powerful, but they want everyone to know who's behind any of their attacks... That means they likely got a plan, agenda or something bigger and they want the world to know who's got the real power when they launch more attacks...
Gods damn...
"Good point about uniforms, Gabe," The tailor finds himself agreeing. "Lets hope this is a matter of style over substance and they look better than they are."
The final leg of the journey goes quickly as Nadya seems to push the dogs a bit more after the run in with the ravens. Rounding a hill you see a familiar sight. Houses, building, and the layout is very familiar to everyone. Coming from the west Nadya takes the main road to get to her house on the east end (#14 on the map). As you ride by some of the villagers give you looks of wonder and curiosity. Others merely glance your way and turn back to what they were doing. Still a small group look at you with detest and loathing and maybe a hint of fear at strangers coming to their town.
All of the information that is posted on the map is what Nadya gives you as you ride on through the town.
Gabryjel has no particular concerns in this town. At most he is here to get food, gear and his bearings. He’ll leave the clue-finding to others.
As he walks the streets he has no issue with making direct eye-contact with anyone and refuses to flinch away from a threat. Those who give him looks of loathing he greets with a cold stare that shivers even the ice around them and keeps his weapons obvious and open.
With little to do at this time, he will follow Xanxan around and look for a drink.
If Xanxan cannot think of something entertaining to do, he'll go look for amusement alone - but for now he defers to the gnome's wisdom.
Venja is fascinated by the similarities between Heldren and this small town far to the north. She follows along taking mental notes as Nadya gives her description of the town and it's denizens. She will wave and smile at the ones who seem curious or indifferent. To those who seem fearful or hateful, she will merely give a curt nod and a little smile.
Her own first stop in town is the Weasel, where she orders a cup of tea. She will look around the place to see if any locals are in the establishment and smile at them in a friendly manner if they are here.
while beck may not have any talent for making friends or influencing people, he heads to the Weasel with Venja to drum up gossip, anecdotes, rumor, and fact about the town, after seeing to the dogs with Nadya.
beck strolls to the tavern, saying "We're lucky I had these old things as opposed ta having had Xan make em for me," referring to his cold weather gear, "Xan'd have a fit on account o' yea singin em like that." to tease venja as they enter, adding to a local, "never mess up the work of an artisan. even after yea pay for it, they hate seein their crafts ill cared for"
He enters the bar, his hand loose on the hilt of his weapon and he looks around at the patrons with flat eyes.
He moves forward to the bar, his boots thudding against the floor as he walks.
He motions the bartender and holds up a small pouch of coin in his hand.
"Drink?" he asks and eases himself onto a barstool, looking around and keeping an eye on his companions and the other patrons.
Variel pulls his cloak tighter across his face so that it is harder to get a good look at him. He is uncomfortable with so many new people staring at him regardless if the looks are friendly or suspicious. Although wary in the unknown town he keeps his hand off his rapier for the time being as he does not want to start a fight with anyone for some perceived slight. Not one to be much good around dogs, Variel lets Beck handle the animals when they reach Nadya's house. Once they are finished and Nadya cautions everyone again about not everyone being as open as she is he heads with the others to the tavern. As they are leaving though he hears Nadya call out to everyone, You are welcome back here to sleep and rest while you are here. It is the least I can do for you having helped my men.
"I'm sure Xan would have forgiven us if they had been of his make, Beck," she says as entering the tavern with him. "Does it seem odd to you that this town looks suspiciously like Heldren - it could be a building for building copy... even the statue looks almost the same. Very odd."
"Aye, it's strange. Even gots a lady. But the place where my ol' shack is much nicer. likely as not cause i'm not living there, but still uncanny. Hope they got a ol' lady theodora here too. Olds as she is an the cron can put the fear in me e'en this far north!"
Gabe, most of the people that you give a stare to back down however there are a few select individuals that meet your stare without flinching. You notice that they turn their head to look at you as you pass and continue to watch you until you are further down the road...
stealth
You notice a cloaked figure that seems to be following the group but stays back behind the buildings. Although nothing overtly threatening, you are aware of figure. Before you get to Nadya's house it has stopped following you. Perhaps it was just a child having fun...perhaps
Indeed Venja the similarities between the 2 towns is uncanny. It is almost as if some divine architect drew up plans for both towns. Many of those who were curious smile back at you but very few wave in return. As long as you remain friendly though the seem to return it. One couple notices your attention. They have a young girl that is playing in front of their house. The girl starts to wave at you but the mother immediately picks the girl up and holds her tight against her chest. The husband takes a partial step forward to be in front of the wife and child.
Beck you seem to get the strangest stares of those not directed at Venja. Clearly you are a different sight than what they have seen before. Part curiosity, part fear, people look you up and down once over before quickly passing on to the others in the party. The dogs behave quite well as you help Nadya with them. In fact they almost whimper as you leave wanting you to stay with them a bit longer and play for a bit.
_____________________________________
Arriving at the White Weasel tavern you find yourselves almost alone. Emil and his wife Katrina look up as you enter but do not give you any sort of greeting. Their reception is as cold as the fireplace which by the looks of it hasn't been lit for over a year. The only other occupant is a human man sitting a table by himself with both hands hovering over a candle for warmth. A small bit of steam wafts up from the mug of drink in front of him but it seems untouched.
As you wonder over to him Beck trying to make nice and see what is going on in this town you see that his leg is mangled from some sort of accident. There is a crude splint on it so it clearly is recent and not healed yet. Finally looking up as you sit next to him his eyes are red rimmed as he clearly has been sobbing quietly to himself. Not much for words at the moment Ezekiel gets out to you, Beware the giant crow thing in the woods. I don't now what it was but it scared me something fierce causing me to miss my hit with the axe. The axe head bounced off the tree and into my leg. Don't know how long it'll take to heal up before I can go chopping wood again. I don't know how the family will make it if I can't get back to work soon.
Gabe you sit yourself at the bar motioing Emil over. At your inquiry he responds brusquely, Tea, ale or something else? Venja you order your tea and Emil merely nods in your direction.
Based on your opinion the prices are double what you would normally have paid for back home for the tea or ale. Either that is the going rate in these parts or he is trying to get more out of you.
Venja walks over to Beck and the injured man. She sits near and listens to him tell Beck what happened to him. Shaking her head, sadly, she gives Ezekiel a little half smile and says softly. "I have a little skill at healing. Will you let me take a look at your injury? Perhaps I can help so you can get back to supporting your family..."
If he'll allow her to examine the wound, she does so, then quietly casts cure light wounds, her only one for the day.
Gabryjel listens the crap that the man is pushing on him and stares hard at the man, his eyes flat.
"Give me the ale," he says with a cold voice and places the two silver on the counter.
Gabryjel will quietly speak to his friends and alert them all of the presence of the person following.
After speaking quietly to Beck, he makes a suggestion...
"Don't know who the bugger is; but maybe Sheelah can sniff him out - where he came from and why he's following us... No matter how stealthy a lad is, you can't hide your scent that easy."
His eyes narrow.
"He's good, though, I'll give him that... but not good enough today, I guess," he adds with a quiet voice.
"You want me to shoot him, say the word," he adds.
"Giant crow wit' a frightful stare? That ain't normal is it?" beck asks as venja performs her healing on the poor man. "Huh, yea gone ta see the barber here for treatment yet? Yea does got a proper barber what does that kind a mending right?" he asks, trying to distract the man as Venja works, keeping his mind off his wound.
If you could that would be great. I wouldn't fix everything but at least I will be back on my feet again and able to work.
Gabe, Emil looks at you a moment before breaking eye contact and going to get the ale shaking his head. He sets it down roughly and scoops up the silvers in an eye blink. Normally the barkeep would ask if you needed anything else but Emil just walks away figuring if you needed anything you would holler.
Beck, this far north without a better description you don't know what exactly he is talking about. If you do see something similar to what he is talking about you can keep that roll though.
Venja would take any necessary non-magical steps, like setting the bone if necessary, before casting her cure spell.
"Nicely done da'lin'. I really gotta take some time ta get practiced in th' art," beck notes as venja sets the bone and mends the man's leg.
"Yea mention folk not bein too open. Think Sheelah'd stick out too much? I mean as a big cat. White coat actually makes her blendin nice in th' snows, like she was born for it. was always an odd kitteh"
"Anyway, with that fella following us, I'd rather have her along unless it's too much a thing." Beck adds considering the follower that Gabe noticed as they went through town.
Xanxan has been drifting from the group now and then, taking a peek about the town and listening into towns folks conversations as best he can.