Please create a post/then delete to stealth dot in.
The sleepy village of Heldren has rarely seen so much excitement or concern. Hunters from the nearby Border Wood speak of unnaturally cold weather at the height of summer that descended on the forest just days ago. Heavy snow followed, and those who returned spoke of an uneasy presence in the woods, as well as new, dangerous predators. No one knows what this event means, but the town’s soothsayer, Old Mother Theodora, claims dark times lie ahead. As if in proof of that dire prophecy, a badly wounded mercenary arrived in town yesterday, claiming to be a bodyguard of Lady Argentea Malassene. He told the village council that the noblewoman’s escort came under attack by bandits and strange, wintry creatures near the edge of the Border Wood. He alone escaped, and Lady Argentea was dragged away into the forest. Now the townsfolk cast fearful eyes toward the snowy forest, worried what else might emerge to threaten their peaceful village.
Qadiran agents played a role in it.
Having recently come to town, Everard Gareau had quickly sought out Old Mother Theodora to learn what he could from her mysterious ways. Being somewhat of an oddity himself, others quickly assumed he was just her new apprentice. Therefore, it came as no surprise to him that he was asked to help with the investigation.
Enjoying some of the notoriety of being an outsider, Doctor (as he introduces himself) Gareau is still a fairly social being, and while he talks in odd speech patterns, he does manage to get people to talk to him.
As the rag-tag group is brought together, he shares a little of what he knows.
"The people talk, and the people have much to say. As the cold winds blow, too early for most, it brings with it misery for some, and yet majestic and beautiful guests as well!"
"The frost has killed much of the crop of Old Man Dansby, and he shouts that someone, or something, has stolen the rest. A farmer’s son crashed through the oddly frozen over Wishbone Creek, and became quite ill from the experience... perhaps it was a fever dream, but he claims he spotted a white stag in the forest which he says was speaking and led him to the creek. "
"Many suspect magic is involved, and some fear blame Qadiran agents, although I am not sure why. The High Sentinels are supposed to be protecting these folk, but it seems they are not up to the task. And then there is Dryden Kepp, a hunter you may know. He claims to have seen a giant white weasel, odd for these parts, but at least he doesn't claim it talks. Few believe him, of course, so he went off to prove his claim... I suppose he is still out there."
Something internally guided LaMort Marche into the sleepy town of Heldren; be it the will of Asmodeus or subconsciously gathered clues of a Witch who needed to be brought down. Regardless, when word of Lady Argentea Malassene's kidnapping reached LaMort's ears, it confirmed his intuition. He managed to talk with some locals who, as with most people LaMort comes into contact with, naturally trust.
He rendezvous with the rest of the group and listens intently to the good Doctor. At the sound of "magic" and "The High Sentinels", Marche perked up and waited for Doctor Gareau to finish speaking.
"From what I have gathered, The High Sentinels are only accustom to dealing with bandits. If what you say is true, I'd conclude that this is no doubt Winter Witch handy work."
A fiery flicker engulfs LaMort's silvery irises for a moment as he continues with a smile slowly forming as he spoke.
"I'll need a contract to review and approve in order to make sure our services are properly compensated, but I have no doubt in our combined ability to... deal with this crisis..."
Runeson has no great love for people in general, but in his time here he has grown to appreciate the solitude and space the folks in the area have afforded him. Never bothering him about his unnaturally blue eyes, or the blackened charred skin that covers both of his arms.
Runeson, spurred to action by his solitude being shattered once more, gathers with the others ready to share the redundant information he was able to piece together.
"Enough talking! We must search the forest for clues to our enemies presence.
The white stag might also be an omen, we should search for it, it must be connected in some way. A sign from the Gods.
Gather our warriors and set forth! For Glory!"
Aryas walks up to the group as if he owned the world.
"Hello everybody!!" says a young human with a sly smile although something else seems to be mixed into his heritage.
He looks a little scrawny but quite agile. His blonde hair looks fabulously styled and he is wearing a casual but trendy shirt.
Resting on top of his chest, an amulet showing the holy symbol of Sarenrae is visible.
He has a natural confidence and presence that only few can project at such a young age.
He wears light leather armor that looks like it has been recently oiled and carries a Scimitar at his hip that is attached to his wrist with a very fine chain.
”Oh my dear friends or strangers or strange friends?!? I am unbelievably sorry to inform you that my dear colleague Old Mother Theodora is unfortunately unable to accompany us on this mission due to an urgent request to return to her elderly home!! Ha ha ... just kidding!“ he says a little too theatrically.
”I am going to join you to investigate the mysteries that lie in front of us! As you probably have noticed I am unbelievably charming and handsome and for that reason I would usually do the talking if you allow.“ he states with a nonchalant attitude.
Facing you with bright smile he continues ”I am quite intrigued about all the information that you have gathered so far! And I will surely use all of this during my discussions with the leaders of this area or bandits or monsters or ... well whatever!!!“
He sighs ”But I have to admit that I have a horrible memory so please excuse me and correct me if I ... well ... I don’t know. Hmmm ... what were we talking about!?“ he muses.
"I hope that we will have a challenging adventure that we have can enjoy together!" he continues.
’The egret lifts her leg
out of the water
Although the water is fine and warm!
A curious thing indeed!
But whither goes her wade
when time to win--'
Faisal’s musings are brought to a end (and an errant blot of ink) as his companions gather round and begin discussing ideas.
The little champer has been enjoying an extended holiday in the South but it seems his funds have only gone so far as Golsifar. And after a particularly… Memorable performance he’d organized as conductor / artist-in-residence with the Golsifar community chamber ensemble he’s found himself in significantly less demand over in the coastal city proper.
No matter! The countryside is picturesque and the tavern affordable! The quaint people of Heldren also seem to be far less critical of mixed meter!
He glances wryly up at his colleagues, only throws a brief double-take at Aryas’, and joins in the discussion:
”Well frankly I came to Taldor to get away from the cold. But then if this is what passes for a chilly midsummer in these parts I’d say these folks ought to count their blessings! B’gehgeh.
“I’ve seen a few of those High Sentinels bandying about town this week and it seems to me there’s probably nothing in those woods they aren’t accustomed to hunting, or... talking to…, or whatnot. I’d say leave it to them to fetch their hunter friend Dryden Kepp from whichever moonshine still he’s fallen into. B’geh. Imagine a seasoned hunter having trouble with a, a, giant… weasel…”
The color goes briefly out of Faisal’s face before he recovers himself.
”G’hrm! No. No, I think Marche is on to something. There’s a lady’s honor and then there’s ladies of honor! Why,” Faisal brings a feathered finger to his beak, ”if I remember correctly I believe Lady Argentea Malessene may be holidaying here in advance of her wedding! Surely her fiancé would be appreciative if we could resolve this before it dampens their conjugal festivities. Let’s go see what this mercenary knows!”
Faisal drains the rest of his tankard, gathers up his writing materials, and gives a little rallying toot on his oboe before waddling out the door.
Moments later astute members of the party might notice him peeking up in the window to see if anyone’s following him. Also hoping nothing small and goblinoid barrels into him.
Heading into Heldren for the pursuit of pie, which always leads to the next town and farmhouse brings, Kolaach is stressed by the news he heard about Old Man Dansby. This drives him into a small gathering's discussion of how to aid proves he has little information that is not already known. Still, he interjects
"Though you all seem to have a firm grasp of the situation at hand, I feel I most help in any way I can. A lot of people sure will have some pretty hard times is this cold persists."
"HA! AHA! Why isn't this a lovely group of wayward souls! Yes, yes... my friend has asked me to look into these sightings to see what thy might portend, and it sounds like each of you has a like interest. Shall we work together to see what mystery unfolds, and perhaps earn a reward or two in recovering a princess? The cold aside, I think it sounds like a walk in the park..."
"Doctor Evenard Gareau, at your service! I see a few of you are of the more religious type - easy now, I have no concerns there, as long as you accept that I have not a strong faith myself. I respect both Sarenrae and Asmodeus, and have had many friends of Pharasma as well. For myself, I dabble in the sciences, alchemy and voodoo to be precise. It is amazing what one can do with subtle adjustments to the auras and airs that surround us! But alas, those white witches take things too far... I am not a fan of them or their practices..."
You are informed that Yuln Oerstag is the lone survivor of the attack, who you can speak to before setting out. You find Yuln in the Willowbrook Apothecary where he is recovering, wrapped in bandages, with a blue hue on his nose, fingers, and toes from frostite, the Ulfen mercenary is under the care of Elder Safander the village priest, but he will require a long convalesence before being able to travel again.
“Would that I could go with you,”he says. “My ancestors would ridicule my lack of valor for fleeing rather than fighting to the end. But I faced enemies that even the greatest warriors in the Linnorm Kingdoms have faltered against, though I think I slew at least one of them before they dragged Lady Argentea away.”
Troy raises an eyebrow as if he is not impressed by the guy.
"You should be glad that you are still alive. Can you tell us more about who attacked you?"
" “We thought they were just bandits at first—outlaws who hide like wolves in the forest. They were no match for us. But then came the cold fey of the north. They appeared among us and the battle turned quickly. My people speak of the winter-touched all the time, but I never expected to meet them this far south.”
"Fey creatures? Wow! Okay, we take care of it. No one is a match for this group with me alongside."
Yuln nods, "Da, the Winter Touched are Fey creatures who have sworn themselves to the White Witches of Irrisen, those who stole our lands from us during the Winter War. Tiny sprites no taller than the length of a man’s forearm. But don’t be fooled by their small stature. Legends say they have taken a sliver of ice into their hearts, and their touch bears the harsh bite of winter."
Troy is intrigued but he tries to hide it.
”Ahh, don’t be so overdramatic!“
He looks at Doctor Evenard Gareau. ”Doctor? Do you believe that our team is in prime condition? I don’t want any of these adventures to get a heart attack from the cold!“
Gareau looks over the group. "You all look healthy enough, but I only see that Troy and myself have appropriate clothing. I suggest those of you that don't have some winter wear go acquire some before we head out. And I see you scimitar appears to be made of cold iron, is that correct? Likely a good thing if we are to encounter the like of pixies."
Being at an apothecary, he asks "Have you anything to help protect against unnatural cold, or to help treat wounds? It seems like both would be helpful in this endeavor."
Tessaraea Willowbark is the apothecary, and her shop has a large supply of alchemists fires, and a smaller selection of all the alchemical supplies. She does have a small number of resist elements (cold), and Yuln has purchased 2 resist elements (cold) and 4 potions of cure light wounds to send on the expedition to find his employer.
an impatient look settles onto Kalacch "Now that we have a potential target to go after...well let's just say we should pull this line quickly to see if we landed a fish or should check our other lines. I fear not just for a loss of tonight's dessert, but to many more to come with every passing day." Kalachh keeps throwing glances at the door.
Troy agrees with Koolach by nodding.
He purchases an alchemist fire.
”I would suggest one of us not would not fight in melee takes the potions. Let us go then!“
"Ah, fighting... yes, I would prefer to avoid hand to hand combat, so I can carry the potions. Thanks you!"
Dr. Gareau packs up the supplies and is ready to go.
Preparations made, you depart. It is 6 miles to the Border Wood, and as you go the traveling is fine- the weather is nice, but as you move closer you notice the temperature steadily dropping.
Near the forest, the temperature grows noticeably colder. The road ahead is littered with debris and the corpses of slain humans and horses. A carriage stands in the roadway, its team of horses missing or cut free, while another overturned carriage lies sprawled and broken next to the tree line. To the south, more bodies have fallen around what appears to be a statue of ice. A snowy trail leads deeper into the forest.
Gareau moves up to the carriage, but stops when he hears the muffled sounds. "Aye! Someone seems to be trapped in there.. who are you?" he shouts.
Troy is traveling on his horse and binds it to a tree.
He gets down and walks forward to investigates the site. He also casts detect magic.
Troy puts the courtier's outfits in the bag on his horse.
"This is a gruesome picture! These people did not have to die..." and he shakes his head.
Troy takes the breastplate and longsword and also puts it in the bags of his horse.
"They probably went that way!" he says pointing at the obvious trail that leads between a copse of trees and over a snowy plain toward the Border Wood.
He also approaches the Doctor when he hears him speak up.
Circling around the detritus of the carriage, only giving it a passing glance, Kalaach and Voolk pauses to consider an apparent trail. The Doctor's shout Draws his attention back towards the carriage.
Runeson stands staring at the macabre sight, trying to recall if he has ever seen these very specific type of attacks
Runeson lifts his head up as he hears the doctor exclaim.
"Well don't just yell at the man, help him out of there."
Faisal jogs up the trail behind the party but when he notices the skirmish site he slows his jog down and begins circling around the nearby brush, trying to determine what's uprooted the nearby tree.
Fearing the worst, he tries to make himself inconspicuous...
...and you hear the crispy crunching of talons over frozen grass and light clucking...
"... Oh look, something's uprooted this tree!"
There is a moment of silence, then the thumping slam as though whoever is trapped inside the carriage is trying desperately to get out, but unable to speak.
Growing impatient Runeson mutters a curse under his breath as he storms over to the carriage. He grabs the spear and rips it free, flinging the weapon into the wilderness as he does so.
Runeson opens the door to reveal two corpses, reanimated into zombies who'd been left behind as a nasty surprise!
Round 1
Turn Order:
1. Kolaach 20
2. LaMort 18
3. Runeson 17
4. Troy 16
5. Faisal 8
6. Zombies 6
7. Doctor Gareau 3
Faisal waddles at half speed to maintain his "stealth" and ducks behind the fallen tree.
kalaach draws his long sword while charging closest zombie
Runeson says a quick prayer, pressing his hand against one of the zombies. Casting Cure Light Wounds into it.
After the attempt Runeson takes a 5 foot step directly backwards.
Troy draws his scimitar and readies an action to attack if he is approached.
"What are these things?!? Team! Prepare!"
Round 1
Kolaach charges, but misses the zombie.
Runeson touches one and a burst of light causes it to recoil in pain.
Fail
Troy readies an attack.
Faisal seeks shelter/
Round 1
Turn Order:
1. Kolaach 20
2. LaMort 18
3. Runeson 17
4. Troy 16
5. Faisal 8
6. Zombies 6
7. Doctor Gareau 3
Damage Done:
Zombie on the right: 8
As the stench of death wafted through the winter air, LaMort darted behind the group in order to do his work properly. Once at a proper distance, he readies his bow, whispers a quick chant to Asmodeus. Afterwards he launches one of his regular arrows at the zombie Runeson had already harmed.
Round 1
Lamort misses.
The first zombie swings at Kolaach:
Miss!
The second one staggers forward and thrashes at Runseon:
hit!
Turn Order:
1. Kolaach 20
2. LaMort 18
3. Runeson 17
4. Troy 16
5. Faisal 8
6. Zombies 6
7. Doctor Gareau 3
Damage Done:
Zombie on the right: 8
Status:
Runeson: 3/10
Troy moves forward to attack.
Runeson stumbles away from the front line, sufficiently bloodied.
LaMort fires a second arrow.
Round 2
LaMort fires an arrow, hitting the zombie, but the piercing attack doesn't have enough force to damage it.
Runeson withdraws.
Troy moves up and slashes, but misses.
Turn Order:
1. Kolaach 20
2. LaMort 18
3. Runeson 17
4. Troy 16
5. Faisal 8
6. Zombies 6
7. Doctor Gareau 3
Damage Done:
Zombie on the right: 8
Status:
Runeson: 3/10
Kalaach misses.
"Ooga-booga, walla-wall ding-dong!"
Doctor Gareau uses his voodoo to hex one of the zombies.
Faisal clambers over the tree and debris around the field and tries to hit the zombie with his oboe.
Round 2
The zombie resists Gareau's evil eye.
Round 3
Faisal swings hitting the zombie with his Oboe, but dealing very little damage.
The zombies swing:
At Faisal-
The other swings at Kolaarch:
At Faisal-
Turn Order:
1. Kolaach 20
2. LaMort 18
3. Runeson 17
4. Troy 16
5. Faisal 8
6. Zombies 6
7. Doctor Gareau 3
Damage Done:
Zombie on left: 1
Zombie on the right: 9
Status:
Faisal: 0/8, staggered
Kolaarch: 3/11
Runeson: 3/10
The whole party is up again! Remember Faisal- staggered you can take a move or a standard but not both.
Runeson takes a moment to catch his breath before rushing back into the fray, setting up on the corner of the wagon and casting burning hands across the two zombies.
Troy attacks with his scimitar!
"What are these things?!? Please tell me!"
Faisal swings and subsequently falls over backwards.
Letting out an angry cry of pain
Kolaach attacks aging, followed by a 5ft step back.