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The tribe arrives in Iceferry, a district of Kalsgard located on the northern banks of the Rimeflow River. Kalsgard is the de facto capital of the Lands of the Linnorm Kings located on the opposite, namely southern, bank of the Rimeflow. Iceferry is where many of the gnomes of Kalsgard live, who like to think of Iceferry as more of an independent township.
The trip has been a long sea voyage, one with a starting goal of meeting with Venture Captain Bjersig Torrsen. As a group you make your way towards the Pathfinder Lodge.
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Obad'of stands tall, easily 2 hands past 6 feat. His body's scales are a consistent and muted sage, the ridges on his back slide into a green so dark that they're essentially black in all but the brightest light. His belly scales are the only hint of brightness, a chartreuse shade common in his line. His chosen profession, coupled with his natural musk are a melange of peat and pine. It's not unpleasant, but it stands out when in the trappings of civilized lands.
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Tamo, his scales shining in the cold sun and the aura about him crackling with arcane energy, strides confidently off the vessel, relishing the scent of the sea's blend with the aroma of civilization. A new adventure! This was what he'd left the Hool Marsh to do -- seek out new worlds to his eyes, and experience Golarion! It had been a long journey, including years of study at the Magaambyan Academy, but finally, he thinks as he disembarks, time to see something new!
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Isikhulu walks beside his sister, almost out of sight behind the much larger Obad'of, as he takes in the unfamiliar surroundings. He opens his cloak for a moment, shivering at the exposure to the unfamiliar cold, and checks on the small, papery wasp nest concealed within.
Too cold for you, too, I guess.
He quietly looks around, taking in his surroundings with an inquisitive eye, he pays particular attention to the Ulfen humans walking around. How many of them aspire to slay one of the great beasts and become king? It's said the beasts carry a powerful curse, unleashed on the one who slays them. Do all their kings suffer such curse? Or have they found a way to counteract it? Perhaps, he thinks, as he glances at his sister beside him, there is something to be learned here.
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Kashkura stares up at the sky, her eyes glowing slightly.
"The stars are different this far north. Do you think they will say different things?"
Her scarf is bundled tightly around her head as she stares. The morning's light makes the stars invisible, but that doesn't seem to stop Kashkura's stargazing.
She finally looks down. "Apparently not."
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Ikinyo looks around in wonder as he and his fellow tribe members make their way through Iceferry, as he has never seen a place so cold and barren. ”At least there are trees,” he says quietly to himself, ”though strange ones with needles rather than anything like real leaves.” He towers over most of his kin like a tree himself, and his broad shoulders are nearly as wide as the trunks of the nearby pines. Mottled scales, some the color of weathered pewter and others a pale moss green, cover his body, and a broad band of black crosses his golden eyes. Like many of the Sable Tip tribe, the scales running in a ridge along his head and neck are tipped with midnight black.
”Cousins, it is cold here!” he exclaims as he shivers, glad that the motley hides and skins he wears for protection also guard him from the cold somewhat. ”I hate to think how cold the water we sailed over must be! And the trees look like they’d sooner stab you than shelter.”
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Ikinyo grins at Rhizzuk and says, "Well, them there blessings and a nice, hot fire will do us right!" With a nod to Tamo, he adds, "Last big trip I did was when those Terwa thugs caught me and made me work on their logging crew. I did adapt - would have died otherwise - but I sure hope this trip with the Society isn't quite so rough."
Looking at the towering pines, Ikinyo replies to Obad'of's question, "Don't know about magnificent, though they sure are tall and straight. And those skinny little limbs would be easy to cut off if you're bucking the tree for lumber. And a lot easier to work with than those spiky kapok trees that grow on the edge of the Mwangi. You know, I guess they are pretty good trees. I hope they burn hot when I make a fire!"
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The group of lizardfolk chat back and forth as they marvel at just how different this part of Golarion is to their home. It's a testament to the faith the Pathfinder Society has in this group from he Sable Tip Tribe. It's also a test.
Within short order the group arrives at the Pathfinder lodge. You're all ushered into a meeting room. It's relatively warm indoors, with several chairs spread out for anyone interested in resting their legs after long days of travel. Within moments the the Venture-Captain and a gnomish woman enter.
Venture-Captain Bjersig Torrsen sits upright in his chair, waiting until he is certain he has the attention of everyone in attendance. "Thank you all for coming." he signs, his words interpreted as necessary through Lirall, the gnome sitting beside him. "I expect your travel to Iceferry was safe, if a bit cold. Or a LOT cold for you all. I am very excited to have you all here for the upcoming event. I expect that you will find it an excellent test of your capabilities, and not one many Pathfinders will be able to boast of."
Bjersig draws a small bundle of scrolls and a journal from his bag and lays them on the table, allowing the contents to unfurl and spread across the tabletop. "This handful of documents is all the information the Society has collected on the Balgirdtrek up to this point. I doubt it’s something you’ve heard of unless you’re from the area. It is an overland race some 200 miles long, from Frostgarten in Icemark to Kalsgard, just over the river. It is performed each year, honoring the deeds of Balgird Bluetongue when he slew a tarn linnorm centuries ago, but this year’s race promises to be quite unique."
"As you may know, the Varki have been the source of quite the commotion among the Ulfen lately, largely in positive ways. Their ranger, Nankou, slew a linnorm some time ago and has been officially recognized as a linnorm king. A new linnorm king is always newsworthy, but a Varki linnorm king is unprecedented. In recognition of Nankou and his diplomatic efforts between the Ulfen and Varki peoples, the officials have decided that the Balgirdtrek will be held in reverse this year. The Varki have always bristled a bit at some of the ideas inherent in the Balgirdtrek. Ulfen have often discussed it as a race from the ‘savage wilderness’ back into the arms of civilization, not something that has promoted constructive relationships between the two. It’s good that the officials seem to have broadened their horizons."
"What’s more, there are two new teams joining the race this year. First, Nankou has hand-picked a group of Varki to compete. This is the first time Varki have competed in the race and from what I’ve heard, the Ulfen participants are excited to see what they bring to the competition. If you haven’t guessed by now, you all are the second new team. I’ve managed to secure your entry with the approval of the race officials. You can thank me later." Bjersig smiles broadly.
He stands and places a sealed envelope and a small purse on the table. "There you’ll find your entry letter accompanied by my letter of introduction for you. The purse contains a few coins to help you purchase some gear. Once the race is over, you’ll also be compensated by the Society for your efforts. Expect a hefty bonus if you actually manage to win! There is a sleigh carrying the other teams to the starting area. It will stop here in Iceferry to pick you up in an hour, don’t be late. To be allowed to compete is a great honor, so please remember that you represent the best qualities of the Pathfinder Society at all times. Take notes, learn whatever you can from the other teams. The Balgirdtrek is supposed to be a friendly competition after all. If you have any questions, make them quick, otherwise good luck to you all. I don’t expect you to win, but I hope you’ll at least make a good show of it."
Lirall pauses from all the signing and asks. "I'm sure you have questions?"
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As his companions ask about the task before them, and the environs and competitors who will be a part of it, Ikinyo is puzzled by another element of their situation. "We just sailed across half the world to meet you," he asks the Venture Captain, "and you've already got a sleigh timed to stop and pick us up on its way to the starting line? This Pathfinder Society runs a tight ship indeed!" He pauses thoughtfully a moment and says quietly, "I have to wonder if I'm up to that standard. I guess we'll see."
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Bjersig listens patiently as the group asks their questions, but it's Ikinyo's words that cause him to smile. Through Lirall he says, "Tight ship? I suppose you could say that. The ship you came in on, the Scarlet Merman, calls into port here once a month. The captain is a distant cousin of Guaril Karela, so I'm told, so most agents visiting Iceferry arrive on his ship. Makes it pretty predictable, so I made sure we got you all set."
"But is this a test? A little. You're all junior agents and this mission is the furthest from the Mwangi Expanse that we can think of. But you've been trained for this, and we know you can handle this," Torrsen pauses to pet his dog, Mahki. "And also this is a perfect opportunity to help the Pathfinder Society stand point. Imagine, a group of Iruxi from the Mwangi Expanse participating in this race! You'll be the most memorable group, hands down."
The Venture-Captain then gets down to answering your questions.
"The stars say that it is a good time for a race. How do the other teams feel about our entry?"
What do we know of the other teams? If we hope to win, we should know something of our competition.
"The Balgirdtrek is competitive, but this is a race, not a blood sport. It isn’t unusual for some of the teams to rib one another and there is some history of minor brawls between rivals, but that is not activity befitting the Society’s first team and I expect you to remain above such behavior. Evidently there are some that objected to our entrance into the race this year, though I’m not sure if there is any reason for it beyond misplaced pride."
"Surely this more than a simple race of speed. Yes? Obstacles?"
"The trials vary from year to year, but there are some favorites that return frequently. You’ll have to cross the Whitegold River about halfway through the race. That task in and of itself has long been used as one of the trials. In general, the trials will test your strength, wits or will in some way related to the journey of Balgird The only advice I can offer from what I know is that the officials are open to creative solutions so long as they do not put anyone in undue danger."
"And what of this land? Many epic tales, but tales tell what is true, not what is real. What dangers does this land hold for us?"
"The weather will be the greatest foe you should face along the way. In winter, temperatures can change quickly, and storms are not infrequent occurrences. Aside from that, the trail should be clear of any dangerous wildlife. Be wary nonetheless. With the trail cut to accommodate the new route, there may be a few more animals on the trek than usual."
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Isikhulu has heard a little about the race. he recalls that one of the teams last year was called Two Houses, a team is made up of two Ulfen couples that undertake the Balgirdtrek each year as a joint anniversary celebration.
"Not much, I'm afraid. I understand that their team name is 'Fangs of the Remorhaz', so keep an eye out and be sure to meet them," the Venture-Captain answers Rhizzuk. "On that note, you'll want to have a team name yourselves. So think on that, but not too long. You've got a sleigh to catch, and less than an hour now to get any supplies and get to it. You'll meet all the teams when you get there too."
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-- Envoy's Alliance Champion (faction)
-- Home Region: Sodden Lands/Mwangi Expanse (slotless)
-- Secondary Initiation: Magaambyan attendant (slotless, social)
-- Promotional Vestments (promotional)
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With little time to waste, the Venture-Captain hurries you out the door to catch your sleigh ride. You have just enough time to acquire any supplies and pick up your school-sanctioned items.
When you all arrive you find that you're the last team there. All told, there are five other teams that you see there, and as of right now there doesn't seem to be much mingling. They are all busy with final preparations, but you can easily spy the general make-up of each.
Team 1: Four burly Ulfen men and women, who are each smiling and laughing a joke one of them told the others.
Team 2: This team is, from what you can tell, the Varki team. Two of them appear to be twins, and one is a half-orc.
Team 3: It's fairly easy to tell just my the mannerisms that this team is made up of two couples. All are Ulfen.
Team 4: Another Ulfen team, though two of the members resemble each other enough to be clearly related.
Team 5: An aging woman, clearly strong and fierce, can he heard giving orders to two young squires.
You have a few moments before it's time to leave. How do you intend to use the time?
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"Well met, Kashkura. I am Marbin Slickhide," a Varki man replies politely. "This is my sister Ylva Tunnelwalker. And those two are Runa Frostleaf and Olin Tuskbinder. And you are right, we are racing for the first time."
At a quick glance, Kashkura can tell that this team is well-prepared. "It's quite the honour to be participating in the Balgirdtrek," Ylva chimes in. "You must be as excited as we are. Tell me though, and I mean no offense by it, but how is it that a group of Iruxi Pathfinders come to this part of the world, nevermind to be in the race no less."
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"Terwa Lords? I admit that we don't get much news from your part of world, but it must be bad if you have to 'escape' them. I'm very sorry to hear that."
Marbin puts on a smile and tries to brighten the mood. "You're here now, and we'll be heading to the starting line soon. Are you ready? I tell you, Runa has probably triple checked everything at this point and is still worrying enough for the three of us!"
Ylva points at Rhizzuk, who is diligently checking the tribe's gear. With a smile on her face says, "I think they have their own version of Runa!"
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As Kashkura makes friends with the Varki group, Tamo will pat Rhizzuk on the back as he makes his way to visit Team 3 (presumably Two Houses).
Greetings! he says gregariously. I have no desire to distract you from your preparations, but wanted to extend a hand in friendship from the Pathfinder Society and to thank you and your people for inviting us here. We are Team Explore, Report, Cooperate.
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Ikinyo approaches the first team he spots. "Well, you seem like a sturdy lot," he says, standing at least as tall as the burly Ulfens. "Big and strong, like some of the folk I worked with on my timber crew. I'm Ikinyo, and I'm not from around here, as you might have guessed. Maybe you can tell me, which of the trees here makes the best firewood? Which lights fastest, and which will burn longest? My companions and I are used to warmer winds, and it would be helpful to know such things."
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Tamo splits off from the group to meet one team...
"Oh, it's nice to meet you," an Ulfen man says to Tamo. "I'm Steen, and our team is called 'Two Houses'. A simple enough name, but it easily connects us as my wife and I are one half of the team. Leif and Oluf make up the other house. We are-"
At the same time, Ikinyo trots off to another team...
"You noticed, did you? Oh ho! Well with any luck you won't freeze during this race." a burly Ulfen man replies to Ikinyo. He flashes a big grin and adds, "Lucky for you, you're talking to this years soon-to-be winners, oh ho! I'm Sigurd, and these three are Jori, Sigrun, and Baltus. I'm not sure I want to tell you all our secrets just yet, but when we finish way in advance I think we can make a detour back to pick up-"
Both conversations are interrupted by the a horn to signal that the teams are to travel to the starting area.
The trip to the race area is fairly short. Two bright, open-topped sleighs wait along the side of the street, adorned with ribbons and cedar boughs. The driver of the second sleigh hops down, waving the group over. He instructs the team to move to the rear of the cart and assists with boarding. Inside, two groups sit, anxious for the sleighs to get moving. The Iruxi Pathfinders find themselves travelling with the older Ulfen woman and her two squires, as well as the four burly warriors that Ikinyo had just met.
The starting area cleared for the Balgirdtrek in Kalsgard is bustling with activity. Merchants and traders hoping to support the race have set up stalls and carts to sell supplies and equipment to the teams. You and the other competitors are greeted by cheers and applause as the sleighs pull up. As each team disembarks from the sleigh, they are
introduced to the crowd by the drivers of the sleighs.
"Fangs of the Remorhaz!" the driver shouts when the Varki team disembarks.
"Two Houses!" follows when the couples that Kashkura met step off the sleigh.
"Without Trace or Fail, last year's winners!" is what's announced for the three Ulfen rangers and their cleric.
"Wyrding Wayfinders!" accompanies the older woman and her squires.
"Bluetongue Brawlers!" greets the burly Ulfen crew, who are all grins as they step off.
The driver and herald stops when he gets to the Pathfinders. "And what's your team name?"
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"The Sable Tips, a team of Pathfinders from the warm south!" the driver shouts. The crowd cheers politely for you all, but you can tell they are particularly excited by Fangs of the Remorhaz and Without Trace or Fail.
The driver then pulls out a pack and hands it over to Rhizzuk. It contains three minor healing potions, a single climbing kit, vouchers for lodging in Frostgarten, flint and steel, a signal whistle, and a list of supplies they should procure before the race begins. The list reads: winter clothes, tent, hatchet, rations, healer's kit, 100 feet of hemp rope, repair kit.
"You should buy those things on the list," he says, looking at how each of you are dressed. "You've got about three hours to get ready. A race official should see you to explain the rules of the race. Good luck."
RACE PREP
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Ikinyo - Go
Isikhulu - Go
Obad'of - Go
Kaskhura - Go
Rhizzuk - Go
Tamo - Go
If you want to push on toward another obstacle after completing their current checkpoint trial, you can, provided that you are not significantly exhausted and the officials at the checkpoint clear you after checking for injuries sustained while on the trail.
Race officials may also detain teams at checkpoints in the event of particularly bad weather.
The team that finishes the race in the fastest time with the fewest penalties is declared the winner. You can be penalized for actions in violations of the race's rules; these violations are noted by race officials and once you complete the race, you'll have an hour deducted per violation, meaning that even a team who finishes later
than another might be declared the official winner.
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Ikinyo grins toothily at Sigurd's friendly response, but his smile fades quickly as he realizes he'll get no useful information from the man.
As the sleigh bounds along, Ikinyo turns his attention to the older woman, and continues to try to get an answer to the same simple question, "Good day to you! As you've probably noticed, we're not from around here. We come from a land far to the south, full of dangers, where we have to watch each others' backs - just as Pathfinders do to survive their dangerous missions. I expect the same is true in these harsh lands as well. So, with that, perhaps you can tell me the best type of wood that grows here to use as firewood? I am sure it gets cold at night, and I'd like to survive that." Unfortunately, his manner is a bit wooden as he makes the request, and he can't quite kindle a friendship.
Ikinyo hops off the sleigh and looks around, then turns to his tribe-mates and says, "I've got some rope, but none of the other stuff on that list, so I should do some shopping. Anyone else need to buy stuff?" He then sets off for the market.
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RACE PREP - Hour 1 of 3
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Ikinyo - Shopping
Isikhulu - Shopping
Obad'of - Study Weather
Kaskhura - Gather Information
Rhizzuk - Meet Fangs of the Remorhaz
Tamo - Go
Ikinyo and Iskhulu team up, making their way through the crowds to purchase the necessary gear.
Kashkura also wanders about, talking to the merchants. She feigns interest in various goods, asking questions about the course itself. She's able to cobble together enough information to feel at least a little informed about the first leg of the race.
Rhizzuk seeks out the Varki team, and quickly the conversation turns to preparedness. It becomes evident that the team is hopeful to win but happier to be participating. Marbin and Ylva even walk over to check everyone's gear over to make sure everything is fastened properly.
Meanwhile, Obad'of... stares at the sky. For a whole hour. A number of people watch him surreptitiously, and a few even point and whisper amongst each other, but the druid is either oblivious or unfazed. He studies the wind currents that blow past him, the tumbling path of a snowflake, the volume of a crunching foot in the snow, all to understand what the weather will bring. But this foreign weather confounds him.
RACE PREP - Hour 2 of 3
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Ikinyo - Shopping
Isikhulu - Shopping
Obad'of - Study Weather
Kaskhura - Gather Information
Rhizzuk - Meet Fangs of the Remorhaz
Tamo - Go
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Hour 1: meet with Two Houses
Tamo greets Two Houses. A pleasure to see you again. It would be a credit to both our our ancestors if both our teams perform well, and I earnestly wish you good luck.
Hour 2: gather information from merchants
Tamo gets into an unexpectedly heated argument over the cost of rope, which causes other merchants to ignore the Iruxi after he storms off to look at other vendors.
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Ikinyo opts to try to read the weather in this strange new place, though he tries to do it more inconspicuously than Obad'of. He sets a fallen log on the ground at the base of a large white pine, so as to not be sitting in snow, and leans back against the tree. He feels the shift in the tree as the wind blow through its highest branches, listens for the sound of sap moving through it, and sniffs the cold wind as it stings his long, toothy snout.