Graded [Frontier] Frozen Kingdom

[Norschtalen]

Shalys Dar’Miam "Hunter"

Location: Cliffside

Interactions: No one specifically​

---

In the midst of all of the chaos, Shalys did her best to first, keep herself safe. The last thing she needed to do was become a liability. Secondly, she would try to help anyone else currently struggling to escape their current situation. Most of the caravan that fell weren't in any position to protect themselves, so Shalys focused on getting them out via rope, footholds, or simply a helping hand. She tried her best to ignore the giant ice worm that had broken out of the ground, and besides the others were dealing with it. While she certainly could've taken some potshots at it, there was other things that she could focus on to help instead. After people were saved, she did what she could to help secure any cargo, focusing on essentials such as food, medical supplies, or anything that'll help them survive this harsh wasteland.

With the ice worm soon defeated, they would need to get moving fast. This glacier they were on was not safe, but there wasn't many other places for them to go that was any better. But they must do something. Helping as many people get ready to leave, Shalys begins looking around for a viable path out of here. She doesn't care to explore the crater and they don't have the supplies to extend this journey for any longer than they have to, so the quickest route out was what Shalys was focused on.

 

[Orikanyo]

Finn



"...Hahahahahahahahahaahahahahaha- Ooow thats hot owowowow." The young man's laughter resounded in the area, though he soon had to step back a few feet and more from the cracking ice and steam. He rushed abit back before planting his head in the snow, giving off abit more steam as he rapidly cooled down. He surfaced once more, standing up and burshing snow off his face.

"Well done! Well done! Dare say you all are worthy of praise and a half thats for certain! Brilliant marksmenship and aid all atound, dare say we managed to get through that mostly intact!

Anyone injured? Not just a pretty face bring up your aches and pains and we can get them sorted. Any dead? See what we can do for that, just bring em up." He motioned towards himself as he made his way to the bulk of the caravan of sleds.

"Fine work to your men sir, dare say their acrobatics are second to none! Good to see the guts and daring i've heard of the Kingdom folk was no lie. Though, we've had some suprises I have to say my first meet and greet with the locals is about expected. Didn't think they'd be so readily... Ready to greet me, i'll have to keep my wits sharp." gmimperfecti He regarded the noble born in their midst, still on the look out for injured and wounded. He was no worse off, abit bedraggled but still a shining light of confidence despite the horrible odds that were against them moments prior. Seeming with an after thought, the young man sheathed his sword at last, the radiant glow coming to a forced end...

Saving some eyes when looking his way.

He gave a glance to Aurora, his guide and driver. "Don't think the new crevices are must helpful for our trip eh? Hope your not tired of me yet, we may be in for abit of a long run... Know anything about that crow mass and the worm thing? I'm dab hand at monster knowledge I have to say." He admitted it, but mostly saying it so they had something to talk about beyond the bad... Though he paused in his stepped as he almost bumped into Mimi.

"Oh, sorry missy. Hope you weren't too frightened by the mean ol monsters." He regarded the canine woman with a soft appology. "Glad to see your not hurt, mind getting the injured to us healers? Might be a few stubborn types trying to tough it out, surely a cute nurse like you could help them along huh?" StarPrincessVal

 

[StarPrincessVal]

Mimi

Mentions: Orikanyo
​

As the worm fell and the excitement died down with everyone regrouping, Mimi sighed and relaxed. She brought the children over to their parents, returning them to their family. She watched as they embraced, relieved that none of them were injured. The man thanked her and the woman gave her a hug, but she couldn't help but feel deep down like she was intruding. As kind as these people had been to her, they weren't where she belonged. She slipped away quietly when they turned their attention back to each other and began to help collect the scattered supplies. A large bundle of several smaller crates and boxes, secured with a net, lay in the snow. Mimi grabbed the netting in her hands and began to drag it toward one of the sleds. As she made her way backwards she nearly bumped into a tall armored man with blonde hair and a gentle smile. Something about him set her at ease, unlike the other humans in the group. She smiled and her tail began to wag as he apologized. "I-it's okay. I wasn't scared. Well, maybe just a little bit." It wasn't a lie. In her effort to protect the children, she had nearly forgotten to be scared. She raised her hands in determination as he asked her to fetch the injured. "I can do it! I'll make sure they get to you!" She turned and ran through the snow, looking for people with burns or other injuries, and urging them to make their way to the healers. After she had rounded up the last of them, persistently demanding those who shrugged her off, she returned to the sled nearest Finn and Aurora and sat in the snow against it, waiting to see if she was needed for anything else.

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar
​

As the body of the giant worm fell through the ice melting the ground around it Tyrmar let out a breathe of satisfaction as his fists shook from the force of his blows. Truly this was an experience that he couldn’t get enough of, and the fact that he was surrounded by able warriors all around made it an even better experience than Travelling through The See.

Quickly observing the surroundings he saw that they’d not incurred much in the way of casualties even if the surrounding environment left much to be desired. On that note he walked closer to the fallen dragoon, their body still cooling in the snow before brushing off all debris and kneeling by their side.

Though he’d never consider himself a pious man he doubted there were as many as him that had had experience with death to afterlife to rebirth all in the same life. Though he knew not the warriors gods nor where they’d truly go he silently gave a moment of silence and hopeful thought of safe passage after death in battle.

Taking note of the scattered remnants of the band of travelers as well as the fact that their trail seemed all sorts of destroyed Tyrmar hopped on his feet crunching the snow underneath him before setting off in an arch around the group at top speed. (Burst Step, Second)

While he’d not been able to speak to every member of the caravan on the journey going to their destination he made sure to assist any that looked shaken from the sudden attack and crash, his sense for people helped him to direct them to gather up their injured and help each other to where Finn and the rest grouped them. (Compassionate Charisma)

“Lo there sir mage! I noticed the spell work there but didn’t realize who it came from you really helped us out there, come and join with the others while I scan the perimeter for an alternate route, your prowess will surely be useful.” Making his way through the overturned carts he eventually stopped by Vanta who he assumed from his garb and enigmatic presence to be a mage, all the while trying to keep an eye out for other paths through the snowy tundra.

Abilities Used:

Burst Step, Second - [Fast] E, [Energize] E - Grasp the ground with the soles of your feet and blast off even greater than before, not bound by the Earth. 120ft Movement - E Grade - 0 Turn Cooldown.

Compassionate Charisma - [Leadership] E, [Peruasion] E, [Empathy] E - Though his appearance and positive demeanor may display otherwise, Tyrmar is one who has known suffering and sorrow. Through that sadness he identifies with the troubles of others and therefore becomes able to better relate to, comfort and lead them - Grade E - 1 Post Cooldown.

gmimperfecti Orikanyo Norschtalen StarPrincessVal QizPizza

 

[QizPizza]

Uriah Ulricson

Art by Victor Santos
Link to CS

Spoiler: Mentions/Interactions

Mentions: Orikanyo (Finn) AbenSur (Tyrmar)
Interactions: gmimperfecti (GM)

Spoiler: Used Abilities

Religious Intuition - Grade F - 0 Post Cooldown

Components - Appraisal F, Religion F
Though unaware of his appraisal ability, it typically unintentionally activates when he is around objects of religious importance, particularly those related to the Wind gods or other mountain gods. This gives him some information he feels that Boreas has granted him as the chosen champion.

"This seems...familiar. Is Boreas telling me something?"​

Spoiler: TLDR

Actions:
- Retrieves possessions and joins the rest of caravan
-Makes an offering to the Azjorath the Hungry Wind thanking it and hoping to learn more about them using Religious Intuition - Grade F

Cooldowns:
Grade E: [1/1] - Ready

Current Conditions:
- NA

When Uriah called on the Wind, it wasn't a particularly poignant question of who would answer his call. Of the Eight Cardinal Gods of Wind, Boreas was his patron, but each god's whims care little for whose champion they support. After all, the Wind may blow from any direction, whether it be against a man or behind his back. However, none of the Eight answered Uriah's call today. A chill ran down his spine as a strange and unfamiliar Wind added to the howl of his tempesting axe as it flew. What god or spirit had assisted him if it were not one of the ones he worshiped?

Gust followed gust, howl followed howl, and storm followed storm as his axe shot towards the scaleless serpent with a ferocity he did not believe himself capable of and truly, it was not his own effort in this case. Astounded and fearful, Uriah stood like a boulder ever ancient as the others released their own assaults upon the beast. Truly, a vicious storm tore through the beast, one of his Wind, of the Thunderous Ones' War Drums, of a blizzard of daggers, and of a hail of steel, all cheered on by the Wyrd Wind that answered his call.

All the fury of the adventurers' store tore at the foul serpent's flesh, drawing the boiling blood of the beast out in fountains. As if to put an end to the monster's misery, a light from the heavens fell on it as per the knight's command, cutting through a final bellowing rage of smoking torrent. The serpent was no match, and was split like a log, bursting into a final cry of defiance and cinders that broke the ground around it.

This was what was finally enough to stir Uriah from his stupor. Seeing the incoming blast, he dove to the ground and wrapped his cloak tight against his body. Whether it be the whims of fortune or the guidance of fate, his embrace of the snow turned one boon into two. Though he had not noticed it in the chaos of the last several moments, several gouts of the serpent's searing lifeblood had found its way on his skin, scalding him raw. Had he not dove into the snow to avoid the gust of cinders and extinguish the boiling blood on him, he may not have walked away with a few superficial burns and a singed cloak.

Finding himself buried in the snow for the second time today, the barbarian pushed himself from the frozen ground and retrieved the Logsplitter, laying just several arm lengths from where he was. He supposed that by the Blessing of the Wind, it had not fallen with the corpse of that serpent into the ravine. With the myriad of blessings he'd received today, it would be foolhardy to not offer anything in return.

Searching through several overturned and shattered sleds, he retrieved his travelsack and reconvened with the caravan. While he received balm and bandage for his burns, he portioned out a chunk of his meager rations as an offering: a strip of venison jerky and a chunk of cheese. The Vindrsønn shredded the jerky into thin strands and crumbled the cheese into morsels no larger than grains of sand. When his wounds were tended to, he stood at the edge of the caravan's perimeter, holding the portion of food in his hands, though not to eat. Instead, he released them into the wind with a prayer of gratitude and a request to know about the spirit that delivered them from the serpent, "Great and mysterious Wind of our victory, I do not presume to know from where thoust ride, but accept this humble warrior's meager offering curd and venison as gratitude. Upon thoust good will, dost this warrior request thoust name."

 

[gmimperfecti]

The last thing Shalys needed to do was become a liability. Secondly, she would try to help anyone else currently struggling to escape their current situation. Most of the caravan that fell weren't in any position to protect themselves, so Shalys focused on getting them out via rope, footholds, or simply a helping hand.

Shalys moved like dandelion seeds, floating on the wind. She sprinted over the powdery snow leaving nary a trace as she rushed to aid those who had fallen, broken, or lost something or themselves. She rescued a merchants goods, scattered preserved meats and wheels of cheese, vital calories in the frozen north. He thanked her with a bow. She picked up a couple who had entrusted their children in another, as they tried to face the burning, molten terror coming out of the snow, pulling them to safety as a molten salt fell everywhere like raindrops. Except these raindrops burned through flesh and snow with equal ease! She even freed some lost sled dogs that had fallen into a small crevice, helping pull with all her might along with several others. Many of the caravan cheered her wherever she went. [Gained: Asset, Bonds F - Favor of the Caravan (usable during this adventure only)]

She tried her best to ignore the giant ice worm that had broken out of the ground, and besides the others were dealing with it. While she certainly could've taken some potshots at it, there was other things that she could focus on to help instead. After people were saved, she did what she could to help secure any cargo, focusing on essentials such as food, medical supplies, or anything that'll help them survive this harsh wasteland.

Indeed, if the caravan was to survive, they would need every last piece of remaining food and supplies. Many were impossibly hard to detect with the shifting, powdery snow rapidly covering everything on the ground after a few seconds. Many of those who tried to flee, ended up stopped as their goods tumbled off the sleds, because of all the back and forth battling had weakened or caused the packing to give way. She saved five separate sleds this way, rescuing a weeks worth of food and supplies. [Gained: Minions F - 5 people saved in the Caravan (usable during this adventure only)]

She slipped away quietly when they turned their attention back to each other and began to help collect the scattered supplies. A large bundle of several smaller crates and boxes, secured with a net, lay in the snow. Mimi grabbed the netting in her hands and began to drag it toward one of the sleds. As she made her way backwards she nearly bumped into a tall armored man with blonde hair and a gentle smile. Something about him set her at ease, unlike the other humans in the group.

The family thanked her profusely and the little daughter tangled her tiny body in Mimi's arms, giving Mimi a giant child sized bear bug. [Gained: Asset, Bonds F - Favor of the Children (usable during this adventure only)]. She helped rescue the large bundle, the merchant and his two companions thanked her with all their hearts, promising her as much of their food and goods as she might want! [Gained: Gear F - Merchant Goods and Food (usable during this adventure only)]

Anyone injured? Not just a pretty face bring up your aches and pains and we can get them sorted. Any dead? See what we can do for that, just bring em up." He motioned towards himself as he made his way to the bulk of the caravan of sleds.

There were many in a sorry state. Not only had many been burned and maimed by the flying, molten salt but the breaking glacier had caused many micro crevices, catching fleeing legs and breaking them. Others suffered from wind burn and frost bite from the harsh winter air that leeched all heat and life from exposed flesh.

"I can do it! I'll make sure they get to you!" She turned and ran through the snow, looking for people with burns or other injuries, and urging them to make their way to the healers. After she had rounded up the last of them, persistently demanding those who shrugged her off, she returned to the sled nearest Finn and Aurora and sat in the snow against it, waiting to see if she was needed for anything else.

Many had suffered lacerations only to have the environment double the damage and make it all but incurable! Luckily Finn's hands could glow with golden celestial light, healing the worthy as easily as they destroyed the wicked. Each person Mimi brought to him, Finn would give that dazzling heroic smile and lay his hands on the broken and mangled. Finn walked amongst the hopeless and with a touch restored them back to prime condition. He did it with such causal grace that many fell to their knees to worship him as an angelic king returned to cast back the darkness and cold that made their lives so terrible. [Gained: Asset, Bonds D - Caravan's Faith in Finn (usable during this adventure only)]. Some of those healed followed behind Finn, helping in many small and sundry ways. [Gained: Minion E - 10 Zealot True Believers (usable during this adventure only)]

“Lo there sir mage! I noticed the spell work there but didn’t realize who it came from you really helped us out there, come and join with the others while I scan the perimeter for an alternate route, your prowess will surely be useful.” Making his way through the overturned carts he eventually stopped by Vanta who he assumed from his garb and enigmatic presence to be a mage, all the while trying to keep an eye out for other paths through the snowy tundra.

Vanta was lurking nearby, close to the pit but not too close so as to provoke Lord Viktor. He had a perplexed expression on his face. "Oh you noticed, how odd for the light to look upon the shadow and give voice to appreciation for a deed done in its absence!"A faint smile touched Vanta's lips. I am happy to follow in your vast and expansive shadow, following as you see fit." Vanta proceeded to follow about Tyr, sticking to the man's shadow moving with an abundance of speed and shadow skipping. Vanta conjured tentacles and other dark fey constructs to wrap, lift, and move in support of whatever Tyr focused on or expressed a desire to move about. Vanta appeared indifferent to the plight of the people, but he did seem to enjoy following Tyr about.

While Tyrmar had not been able to speak to every member of the caravan on the journey going to their destination he made sure to assist any that looked shaken from the sudden attack and crash, his sense for people helped him to direct them to gather up their injured and help each other to where Finn and the rest grouped them. (Compassionate Charisma)

Tyrmar's charisma shone like the warmth of a spring day, raising people's spirits and allowing them to let loose some of the traumatic stress that the murder of undead crows, molten worm, and crumbling glacier had caused. These were hard people used to adversity and challenges, but what had happened today would have been enough to snuff them out of existence thrice over! Indeed, any one of these obstacles could have leveled a large army. Like the pied piper, Tyrmar gathered up and soothed, allowing everyone to gather about Finn's gleaming aura and rest. Working with Shalys and Aurora plus two of Lord Viktor Von Valleros's Dragoons made the work possible. Each of them had supernatural movement abilities which allowed them to move and gather up the lost and bring them back towards Finn's aura.

Quickly observing the surroundings he saw that they’d not incurred much in the way of casualties even if the surrounding environment left much to be desired. On that note he walked closer to the fallen dragoon, their body still cooling in the snow before brushing off all debris and kneeling by their side.

Though he’d never consider himself a pious man he doubted there were as many as him that had had experience with death to afterlife to rebirth all in the same life. Though he knew not the warriors gods nor where they’d truly go he silently gave a moment of silence and hopeful thought of safe passage after death in battle.

Viktor paused his inspection of the vast chasm created in the death throes of the fallen [Cinder Scourge]. He was deep In thought, his Moon Blade floating casually by his right shoulder. The four Winter Wizards stood at the four cardinal directions around the large pit. The five made no sound and yet they seemed to be in collective meditation upon whatever was down there.

When Tyr approached the headless Dragoon, Viktor turned and silently watched Tyr's actions. As if reading his thoughts, Viktor said, "Khisanth the Umbral Wyrm is rather greedy about her souls." He flashed a morose smile, sighing and compressing his lips. The two other Dragoons who had been working with Tyr also joined, thus there were now four Dragoons and four Winter Wizards around the pit. He looked back at the pit, "Although the Childe of Argorth the Molten Core are voracious in their appetites." He sighed again looking down in the pit. Even as he did the glacier continued to groan as stress fractures formed. "They are such children, capricious and greedy, complete sociopaths." He cracked a half smile at his statement.

"Fine work to your men sir, dare say their acrobatics are second to none! Good to see the guts and daring i've heard of the Kingdom folk was no lie. Though, we've had some suprises I have to say my first meet and greet with the locals is about expected. Didn't think they'd be so readily... Ready to greet me, i'll have to keep my wits sharp." gmimperfecti He regarded the noble born in their midst, still on the look out for injured and wounded. He was no worse off, abit bedraggled but still a shining light of confidence despite the horrible odds that were against them moments prior. Seeming with an after thought, the young man sheathed his sword at last, the radiant glow coming to a forced end...

"In truth, I can not pass up the chance to claim the exoskeleton before the symbiote absconds with it or the main forces of the Abyssal Legion arrives now that you've cast back [The Knight with the Seven Word Name]." He tilted his head from side to side. "I've got ninety percent odds against the symbiote on my own." He revealed his teeth, which had rather sharp and vicious looking pair of fangs where the canine teeth were usually in a human's mouth." He tilted his head, "And I'm inclined to solo it so I don't have to share the spoils." He looked around at the remains of the caravan that encircled Finn's aura. "All of which I wouldn't in usual terms share with you Tyrmar or your Holiness Finneagan Huttman; however, your results are rather impressive even if ultimately calamitous. Father would certainly appreciate furthering ties. Thus I can offer equivalent support in exchange for your aid in acquiring the exoskeleton."

---

Searching through several overturned and shattered sleds, he retrieved his travelsack and reconvened with the caravan. While he received balm and bandage for his burns, he portioned out a chunk of his meager rations as an offering: a strip of venison jerky and a chunk of cheese. The Vindrsønn shredded the jerky into thin strands and crumbled the cheese into morsels no larger than grains of sand. When his wounds were tended to, he stood at the edge of the caravan's perimeter, holding the portion of food in his hands, though not to eat. Instead, he released them into the wind with a prayer of gratitude and a request to know about the spirit that delivered them from the serpent, "Great and mysterious Wind of our victory, I do not presume to know from where thoust ride, but accept this humble warrior's meager offering curd and venison as gratitude. Upon thoust good will, dost this warrior request thoust name."

The wind swirled around Uriah. It was fierce and wild, hungrily devouring his offering. Azjorath's touch was the biting cold of the powdery snow carried and brushed against every part of Uriah's exposed skin. Azjorath was not a kind being, but she did respond to his offering. Her voice was the static white noise of a fierce gust bent upon itself and trebled with its own echo. Around and around Azjorath whirled about Uriah until a small cyclone formed picking up snow, ice, and anything not weighed down in an area of 50 feet around Uriah. It was madness for a moment, but just as suddenly everything died down and silence reigned.

However, Uriah felt the hairs along his neck and arms prickle. He felt the air behind him plunge. The cold plucked even more intensely but did not bypass the Blessing of the Mountain Wind; however, this aura was mixed with dread and hunger, an echo of the void. Behind Uriah, his shadow bubbled and fizzed as something emerged from it.

"My mother is fickle in her pain and despair," The [Moon Wraith] whispered, "He honors the old ways. She forgets her emptiness for a time." The Moon Wraith leaned close, whispering, "She hates her name as [Azjorath the Hungry Wind], but she forgets that it once was so much more. Now they are broken and forgotten, an annoyance to be banished. Many would tell him to pretend that the Eternal Snows hadn't filled the Well of the Void, and that she never watched over the Seven Hel-gates."

Its fingers were shards of ice and bone, like long sharp daggers made from ceramic or naps of flint. It didn't touch Uriah but it came close. Its touch was the cold at the glacier's heart. "He has the power to stop it, but he can't imagine one little man could be that important." The raspy voice of the [Moon Wraith] not spoke with vocal cords but the wind behind Uriah said. "'Is it really me?' he says. Maybe he doesn’t know what he has to do? He has to give the nameless a new name! He’s already chosen it. He just has to call it out. He just has to do what his always dreamed. Call their name."

Spoiler: If Uriah calls their name.

The [Moon Wraith] said, "Between them are now a concordance, bound by deed and name."

[Gained: Companion E - Named Moon Wraith (usable during this adventure only)]

Spoiler: If Uriah doesn't call their name.

The [Moon Wraith] hisses and attacks! Effectiveness 7 base, Accurate (-2 speed), Blight (+2 Endless Hunger), Drain (-2 Vitality), Incapacitating F, Multidimensional, Penetrating (F, 1 Grade)

---

He gave a glance to Aurora, his guide and driver. "Don't think the new crevices are must helpful for our trip eh? Hope your not tired of me yet, we may be in for abit of a long run... Know anything about that crow mass and the worm thing? I'm dab hand at monster knowledge I have to say." He admitted it, but mostly saying it so they had something to talk about beyond the bad... Though he paused in his stepped as he almost bumped into Mimi.

"No," she chuckled but it quickly turned into a frown, her tail drooping. Then she brightened and reached for his glowing arm, giving it a squeeze and leaning against his warmth for a moment. "You're the only bright spot in this whole trip." She winked and her tail was wagging again. "Undeath, molten death, and a cold death won't deter us! The mass of crows are more rumor than fact as most don't survive. Just wild tales of the Four Knights of the Apocalypse, this one is named [The Knight with the Seven Word Name]. It was said that the boy was pulled into seven parts, each given a name and a [Voidheart]. A gravity that allowed no light or warmth to escape. The body ceased to be the repository for his soul, rather he lived in his name and only when the seven parts were made whole, it's name given voice might day shine upon his corpse and banish the darkness back beyond the Third Hel-gate: Eternal Silence." She shrugged, "You'll find up north many are obsessed with what is lost and forgotten." She gestured around at the desolate white, "This is a land of emptiness." Then her eyebrows waggled, "Although there is warmth to be found in stolen moments."

"The other is called a [Cinder Scourge], they also mean death. Frankly the stories say they are pretty much impervious to everything, aberrations from beyond the Sixth Hel-gate: Eternal Hunger. They eat everything in this land, which isn't much, which is why it is everything. They've collapsed towns, burrowing beneath the snows and the ground and then gobbling up everything until nothing remains. This one must have been in the area, but usually they are only sighted in the far glacier hearts in the True North. Something must have driven it this far. Both are uncommon, but there is much hiding beneath the snows."

Helping as many people get ready to leave, Shalys begins looking around for a viable path out of here.

Shalys scouted around and talked with Aurora and together they come up with a plan on how to bypass this area. The best path has the group double backing for a day and then curving around northwest for a week until they can find one of the old roads maintained by the nobles and a well known Shrine of Spring's Breath. The Shrine's ward against cold and most monsters can'd abide being within a mile of them. Thus they are the hearts of most towns and castles where humanity huddles against the nightmares stalking the desolation.

 

[Orikanyo]

Finn


"...Hmmm...." he considered all going on around him, the headless dragoon... It stung at his heart... A brave fellow gone in such a way... Had he been stronger, would he had survived? Had Finn been more capable.. Would he have been saved...? His head was all but gone... There was nothing Finn could do for him but turn a rare sad look upon him...

"...My father had been killed a similar way, he was a knight to a lord... Tossed aside when dead like trash..." he spoke, a hidden lace of purpose behind the words. "That noble haf the audacity to speak ill of him... Dieing for him...

Left me an ill taste for such who stay behind their protectors and toss them away... I wonder if that one had family..." he glanced down at his lightly glowing palm, the healing magics were... Not strong enough... He could not bring back a full head. He couldn't bring back a limb or organ, merely put it back if found...

"...Go bravely, I know not what you pray to, but may you find rest in death..." he gave a solumn bow towards the beheaded dragoon, before even considering the silver haired man's words.

"A thing that size would slow us. We will need more supplies for the roads... Salt... It sprayed salt.. If this thing is edible then it's meat will keep. I'm no outdoorsmen, I shall need help and extra capable hands, ones like yours, skilled as you are Auri." He regarded Aurora now, his smile returning... before.. confusion appeared... Then noticed the... group of people following him...

"Ah! Volunteers? I hope collection can be done safely though, nobody take any risks they shouldn't! And follow Ms.Aurora's words to the letter!" A hand patted the woman's shoulder, though it had lingered closer to the ears/head for a moment before deciding that, patting abit lightly(somewhat roughly for his strength).

He then regarded Mimi, going down the line it seems. "Good work finding those people, men can be stubborn to admit their woes at times, but a bright cute face like yours can break through that ice. Well done!" His hand couldn't be kept back this time as he did, his hand planted atop her head and gently gave her a good petting. Soft hair and furry ears... Ah... Reward of a job well done...

F-for her! Yes! He was definitly not petting this girl of whom he has no clue what he name was for his own benefit for certain!!!

He withrdrew his hand, light blush atop his face. "Ah! Very sorry, names Finn by the by, good work missy. If you've a mind we may need help with a worm... ah..." he considered the noble again, taking a moment to focus..

"Say, how exactly will we get that big thing up here and transported anyhow?

...Not sure what a symbiote is either.

Alot of new things to deal with in such little time. Makes me wonder why this place gave me such a cold opener hahahaha!"

Speaking to StarPrincessVal gmimperfecti

All others likely can hear him.. hes rather loud...

Appraisal B on Viktor.

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar
​

‘Khisanth eh?’ Sending off a quick prayer to the deity in particular, Tyrmar sadled up next to Viktor and his men whistling as steam rose off of the surroundings of the larger beast they’d felled. While it certainly seemed alright for the time being there was no reason to risk the landscape shifting further or for more enemies to come seeking the corpse for their own sustenance.

That was not to say they wouldn’t be able to take any of the beast for themselves though. Crouching over the ledge Tyrmar ran his eyes over every inch of the worms body, discerning where the specific portions and parts could be turned into tasty morsels whether it be for the remainder of the trek or during a sudden stop. (Culinary Consideration C)

“While I don’t know what aid I can offer that can’t be matched by your impressive retinue I won’t let it be said I can’t share in the fruits of shared labor. We’ll need to be quick about getting the most valuable sections before making back on our path.” Taking a look around he saw that the caravan had recovered from being so overly panicked and spread out so now they needed was to make haste as best they could, speaking of which…

“Sorry to interrupt such a tender moment but I believe we should be making our way out of this frosted plain with much expediency, I’m not very good with landscapes so after we take care of this beast you’ll have to gather the people mark out a path for us.” He said to the quite literally shining pair standing nearby, Uriah seemed to be kneeling in prayer so he decided not to intrude.

The only ones seemingly unoccupied happened to be just right by him thus he turned to Vanta in all his shadowy, edgy glory. “Well my magely companion you seem to have some useful skills in your bag of trucks, would you mind assisting us while we loot to our hearts content?”

Abilities:

Culinary Consideration - [Domestic Arts] C, [Appraisal] E - All life is part of a cycle, eat or be eaten. At the end of the day what you eat doesn’t really matter as long as it’s examined and prepared properly - C grade - 3 Post Cooldown.

gmimperfecti QizPizza Orikanyo

 

[StarPrincessVal]

Mimi

Mentions: Orikanyo gmimperfecti​

Mimi's tail wagged as the tall human man pet her head and praised her. She wasn't sure who he was, but he was very loud and everyone else seemed to be drawn to him. Surely his favor was good to have. She smiled as he introduced himself. "My name is Mimi. I can help with the worm! I like helping!" She leaned forward with intensity as she spoke. She wasn't sure what helping with the worm entailed, but she was eager to try none the less. As Finn turned to speak with a mean looking human, Mimi's stomach suddenly growled slightly. She reached into her pocket and pulled out a piece of dried meat, tearing at it with her teeth. While she stood there eating, she glanced around at all the sleds and people. She wondered if what waited for them at the end of their journey was worth everything that had happened. Mimi wondered what she herself would find. The end of her journey or just another a stepping stone. It didn't matter to her. She would not stop until she had found a Master to learn under. She still wasn't sure why, but that was what her heart told her to do. She put the last bit of her meal in her mouth and began to walk toward the hole where the worm fell.

 

[QizPizza]

Uriah Ulricson

Art by Victor Santos
Link to CS

Spoiler: Mentions/Interactions

Mentions: AbenSur (Tyrmar) StarPrincessVal (Mimi)
Interactions: gmimperfecti (GM) Orikanyo (Finn)

Spoiler: Used Abilities

-NA
​

Spoiler: TLDR

Actions:
-Names Moon Wraith as "Wyrmbourne" and gains it as a Grade E companion
-Asks Wyrmbourne if there is a way for the caravan to continue
-Speaks with Finn

Cooldowns:
-NA

Current Conditions:
- NA

The Wind that responded to Uriah's call was not a gentle one, but what gentle Wind would wish to venture this far north and in a land this frigid? Gentle or not, the spirit answered Uriah with a cyclone that bit at him with the freshly fallen snow, finding gaps between his cloak and threatening to carry it away. The mountain man had to hold tight onto the pelt to keep it from being torn from his body, but he only felt the brunt of the cold on his exposed skin. Even though the air around him was freezing it was not the temperature that made his hairs stand on end and goosebumps to cover his skin.

No, what made him shiver was the sudden figure that took form behind him, rising from his shadow like the cruel parody of the sun summiting the peaks of Vindrhal. All of a sudden, he felt as if he stood at the peaks of the Northern Mountain, teetering on the edge of a valley that threatened to swallow him whole. It took all of his will and courage to his body and face the apparition behind him. A dread spirit met him, formed of shadows but echoing of the Wind; a child of Azjorath the Hungry Wind it so claimed, speaking in riddles.

Uriah did not consider himself a druid, a medicine man, or a soothsayer, but he still strained his mind to decipher the mysterious words that the spirit spoke. He knew well enough not to speak the name of a spirit that hated her name and that the geist that stood before him was not the Hungry Wind it spoke of, but the speech concerning the Eternal Snows, the Well of the Void, and the Seven Helgates eluded the barbarian's breadth of knowledge. What was more curious was that as it threatened to touch Uriah with its razor claws as it spoke Uriah's thoughts for him, challenging the Vindrsønn to give the spirit a new name.

The barbarian gazed at the apparition, pondering what name to call out… or to even call out a name at all. The rational mind within him cautioned him against carelessly calling out any name, especially when he was warned that Azjorath hated hers. At the same time, he knew not to refuse a spirit's request so easily, especially a child of the Wind that answered his call. As the moments slipped by like rocks sliding down from a cliff, Uriah allowed his impulse to take over, calling out, "Child of the Hungry Wind, I thank thee and thy mother yet again. For this favor, I name thee 'Wyrmbourne,' for thy mother's favor slain a wyrm and henceforth thou appeared."

As soon as he'd given the spirit a name, Uriah felt as if a burden had lifted from his back and the wind was no longer awaiting a grave answer to a burdensome question. Furthermore, the spirit appeared to graciously accept its new name, binding apparition and warrior through the remembrance of the Wind. Passing and forgetful the Wind may be, but an ally even for several days in these frozen planes will be crucial. Most certainly, the caravan will require as much help as possible when the plains have been torn asunder. Regarding that point, Uriah inquired, "I know that the Wind finds its way through every path, but doth thou know of a way or able to find a patg for those born of the Earth to pass through?"

Whatever answer Wyrmbourne may give, Uriah would eventually gather where many of the survivors assembled: around the knight who wields the heavens. As it turns out, the man had an affinity for women of the beastkin variety, a fact made clear as he discussed a path forward with their guide and how to harvest the serpent they slew to replenish the supplies lost. If Uriah was familiar with this kind of beast and the means to move the meat from crevice floor to plateau edge, he'd assist, but a more agile and knowledgeable pugilist took on the task already. Instead, Uriah spoke the matter of the way forward with the knight, "A battle well fought, knight. I know not thoust plan for the caravan's advance, but I have encountered a wraith of Wind, henceforth clept Wyrmbourne. Like the Wind, the children of it always find their way through any barricade or passage, a talent no doubt useful to use. The question now becomes whether the path Wyrmbourne finds is of suitable footing and breadth."

 

[Norschtalen]

Shalys Dar’Miam "Hunter"

Location: Cliffside

Interactions: Aurora ( gmimperfecti ), Finn ( Orikanyo ), Tyrmar ( AbenSur ), Mimi ( StarPrincessVal ), Uriah ( QizPizza )​

---

Shalys doesn't really consider herself a people person, but she did feel a tinge of happiness being appreciated by the caravan folk, even if she also felt a bit awkward about it. She fancies herself a huntress and warrior, but people seem to like her just for being helpful as oppose to her skill at arms. Well, she wasn't going to complain at least. She made sure that everyone was together as even if the chaos was over, winter's bite can still sap their strength. With most of the civilians safe she scouts ahead for a path but unfortunately can't find any safe way forward. Sure, maybe two or three of the more able-bodied folks could continue their original path, but with no way to get any supplies across, they'd be dead by the next day, either by the elements or monsters.

After some time Shalys returned and relayed her findings to Aurora, quietly and curtly explaining the situation. They both came to the same realization: there was simply no way to move forward, so they needed to head back. It'll take a day or so to escape this blighted area, and another week of travel before they could reach a settlement, the Shrine of Spring's Breath. Probably one of the only "safe" places around here and not the caravan's original destination. But unless they prefer death, it was the only way to both survival and continue their journey with as many people alive as possible.

The elven archer was all for this detour, but she figured that she would need to inform everyone else about it as well. Logically, she thinks no one is going to refuse, but perhaps there are a few folks here with a death wish or a mission that obliges them to stay or continue. So Shalys looked around and found some of the caravan folks she had saved. They owe her a favor, so she informed them of her plan to get this group to safety, and askes them to spread the word among the rest of the caravan so everyone will be informed and ready for another long journey ahead. Meanwhile, Shalys ought to go talk to the more colorful members of this crew and get their help. There's no way she's going to do all this work herself, and these people have definitely proven their worth already.

Near Aurora was the holy knight. He more or less was the biggest hitter when dealing with that crow swarm and the the worm, so he was certainly someone she needed to convince. But he was also talking to a beastkin, cute and fluffy. Shalys wasn't entirely sure what she had done so far, but then again things were so chaotic and visibility was almost nil, so she wasn't going to pass any judgement. Besides the journey ahead is going to be rough and dark, so something cute and cheerful will be important to keep morale up. There was also the dark-skin warrior, while not as flashy as the knight he was no less effective against their enemies and was able to keep the caravan slightly coordinated in the midst of all the chaos through sheer force of will. Finally, there was the bearded warrior who seemed native to this place. Perhaps a hired guard that Shalys had overlooked? He seemed to be talking to... Something, a spirit or perhaps he was praying? Either way Shalys observes him walk up to the knight and mention some sort of "Wyrmbourne" which might be able to find a way through, which worries Shalys since a path that a spirit could use may not be one a group on dog sleds can use.

Thus, the fey hunter steps up to the group and finally addresses them directly. She curtly introduced herself, ignoring niceties to get straight to the point. "Excuse me. I'm one of the folks hired to help get this caravan through the snow fields. You can call me Hunter. The safest way out would be back the way we came, about a day's travel. Possibly a bit less if we push ourselves. From there, we'll need to move north-west and reach one of the noble roads and find a Shrine of Spring's Breath. It's not our original destination, but right now we've not the supplies nor man-power to push forward from here. We take this detour, we'll save a lot of lives and be able to resupply and continue our journey with better equipment and health." Looking over to the female beast-kin, Shalys casually begins petting her like the knight did. Shalys just figured that if the knight was allowed to do so, than Shalys could as well.

"This may not go well with certain members of the caravan here, but we need to travel as light as possible. Supplies for food and warmth, equipment to survive the tunrdra and fight off anymore monsters. We've no need for trophies that'll just weigh us down and lure beasts looking for scavenge." Shalys was blithely aware that she wasn't bothering to keep her tone down in proximity of the noble, who wanted to bring the worm's remains with them. They've already lost quite a few sleds but still had people, so some folks were going to have to squeeze together. It won't be any easier if a sled or two gets occupied by mostly worm parts and force others to pile on and subsequently slow down more sleds. "I recommend we leave now. Every second allows the next calamity to come ever closer. One is already too much, but for it to happen twice is such quick succession makes me believe a third is fast approaching."

 

[gmimperfecti]

"...My father had been killed a similar way, he was a knight to a lord... Tossed aside when dead like trash..." he spoke, a hidden lace of purpose behind the words. "That noble haf the audacity to speak ill of him... Dieing for him...

Viktor turned from inspecting the dark depths of the crevice and looked into Finn's eyes as he spoke. Viktor's eyes had a gleaming yellowness to the pupils. A yellow that wasn't goldness but rather the madness in a wolf's eyes. Still his voice was sweet and enticing. "The system ensures the meek shall never inherit this world." He smiled sadly. "You yourself are an easy example." He frowns as melancholy plays about his face, erasing any sign of joy. Still wolves are regal, bats are sinister, and fog holds it's own allure. There was something about Viktor that attracted a certain sort of person.

"...My father had been killed a similar way, he was a knight to a lord... Tossed aside when dead like trash..." he spoke, a hidden lace of purpose behind the words. "That noble haf the audacity to speak ill of him... Dieing for him...

Left me an ill taste for such who stay behind their protectors and toss them away... I wonder if that one had family..."

"It's rare to find a man who remembers a dead dog." He shrugged, "Your sentiment is possible, because of your power." Viktor shrugged, turning to look down at the headless dragoon, "It is a mistake to think kindness is weakness. In this world, only the truly powerful can afford to be kind." He cracked a half smile. "We are allowed our own eccentrics, until a greater power decides otherwise. Such as the Seven Word Name, who loved to hunt as much I do, but happened to hunt the wrong thing at the wrong time."

Viktor took a deep breath and sighed kicking at a chunk of ice and sending it careening into the crevice. "Ah this Frozen Kingdom evokes such wonderful melancholy, doesn't it?"

"...Go bravely, I know not what you pray to, but may you find rest in death..." he gave a solumn bow towards the beheaded dragoon, before even considering the silver haired man's words.

"Khisanth the Umbral Wyrm is rather greedy about her souls," Viktor said. The Moon Blade hovered behind him, the tip of it hanging over the lip of the crevice. "Dragoon Dagahra will be allowed no peace, such is not the way of Khisanth's kith." He tilted his head up towards the lonely moon barely visible in the stark, pale blue sky.

‘Khisanth eh?’ Sending off a quick prayer to the deity in particular, Tyrmar sadled up next to Viktor and his men whistling as steam rose off of the surroundings of the larger beast they’d felled. While it certainly seemed alright for the time being there was no reason to risk the landscape shifting further or for more enemies to come seeking the corpse for their own sustenance.

Viktor turned, nodding his head towards Tyrmar. "There is risk in your words, but they are offered and so given. Ignorance, alas, will not shield you from the hungry, greedy entities of the Frozen Kingdom. Exposed skin has its moisture stolen and its warmth devoured in seconds." He turned for a moment to look at Uriah, "Your man has the way of it. Take what you can and refuse theft of your integrity. Hold fast, because any sign of weakness is an invitation here."

True to his word after Tyrmar had offered up his quick prayer to Khisanth he felt a terrible weight press upon his body. It was vast and endless. There was a vast dark ocean above this world. The darkness was the void, lost, sealed behind Hel-gates but still there. In this dark ocean many dangers lurked. Whatever Khisanth was it threatened to drive him to his knees! The pressure of 20,000 leagues beneath the vast dark ocean descended upon him; it was unseen but not unfelt!! The moment passed as quickly as it came.

That was not to say they wouldn’t be able to take any of the beast for themselves though. Crouching over the ledge Tyrmar ran his eyes over every inch of the worms body, discerning where the specific portions and parts could be turned into tasty morsels whether it be for the remainder of the trek or during a sudden stop. (Culinary Consideration C)

“While I don’t know what aid I can offer that can’t be matched by your impressive retinue I won’t let it be said I can’t share in the fruits of shared labor. We’ll need to be quick about getting the most valuable sections before making back on our path.” Taking a look around he saw that the caravan had recovered from being so overly panicked and spread out so now they needed was to make haste as best they could, speaking of which…

The carcass still glowed like molten lava. It had melted a path straight down 3,000 feet until it had been stopped by the heart of this glacier. It was like a pale fire in the distance. The carcass pulsated but each pulse lost a few lumens of light. Without farsighted or an ability it would be hard to do much more analysis. Plus now that the burning heat of the carcass had passed, the crevice formed an undulating shape, still it was possible to slid down or leap down, repelling would be more challenging.

"In that, we agree. Speed is of the essence. The carcass will lure out many hungry things and the symbiote might just steal back the important bits while we dither." Looking upon Tyrmar again, "They serve their purposes, but yours is far more prized. Few can create prosperity out of death."

"A thing that size would slow us. We will need more supplies for the roads... Salt... It sprayed salt.. If this thing is edible then it's meat will keep. I'm no outdoorsmen, I shall need help and extra capable hands, ones like yours, skilled as you are Auri." He regarded Aurora now, his smile returning... before.. confusion appeared... Then noticed the... group of people following him...

Aurora shivered at the prospect of going into the depths. "Perhaps it's best to leave well enough alone. We've the rest of the caravan to think about and if we loose more supplies or champions our journey might end here. The Frozen North is unforgiving and risks are the domain of fools ill prepared." She shivered looking down the dark chasm with its scintillating end. "It is terribly cold in the heart of the glacier."

Viktor snorted. "The salt alone could fund your caravan for a year."

Aurora shook her head, hackles up a bit. "Not if we don't make it and splitting up with so much peril heaped upon peril. Plus as you say, the corpse will draw many who also covet it."

"Ah! Volunteers? I hope collection can be done safely though, nobody take any risks they shouldn't! And follow Ms.Aurora's words to the letter!" A hand patted the woman's shoulder, though it had lingered closer to the ears/head for a moment before deciding that, patting abit lightly(somewhat roughly for his strength).

Aurora's body shivered under Finn's touch, inching ever closer, "Still, if you'll be there, it won't be a risk." She looked back over the desperate looking families, children huddling with mother or father, merchants tying down what few goods remained.

"Say, how exactly will we get that big thing up here and transported anyhow?

...Not sure what a symbiote is either.

"Oh," Viktor smiled, walking over to the fallen dragoon Dagahra. He unfastened the mithril chain and twisted the cape around so that the gleaming mithril side was facing out and the black side was in. He gestured with the first two fingers on his right hand and the cloak expanded until the black folds on it rippled and bubbled. Silently the four dragoons leaped over to their fallen kin, taking him up the carried him into the cloak. A few moments later they returned, bowing to Viktor and retaking their position. "If Ser Tyrmar and I are allowed to work, we should be able to harvest the sections. The Witching Cloak will transport them back above, but I am no warehouse. It'll fall to those who wish to take their portion to secure it against the North."

The only ones seemingly unoccupied happened to be just right by him thus he turned to Vanta in all his shadowy, edgy glory. “Well my magely companion you seem to have some useful skills in your bag of trucks, would you mind assisting us while we loot to our hearts content?”

Vanta inclines his head from in the lee of Tyrmar's shadow. "Why wouldn't I?" Peering over the side, Vanta adds, "I believe it is possible for the Dweller in Darkness to reach out at set intervals along the side of the chasm. Although the touch is cold and deathly, I'm fairly sure I can intercede such that the Dweller does not draw anyone into the infinite darkness. It might take some small effort but the tentacles could be used at 20 foot intervals." He tilted his head from side to side, "Which should be doable. Or perhaps no, I could manage 25 targets at a time in intervals of perhaps 100." He tilted his head to the side, using his wand to lightly tear holes in reality, using the void script to do algebraic and geometrical calculations. Rough sketches of the length of the shaft, angular momentum, intervals, tentacles ratios, and about a hundred other variables filled the area around him like a gossamer field of lingering black ink hanging in the area. "It's a bit tricky but I'm sure the jumpers could catch anyone that falls outside the parameters of the model I've built, right?"

Tapping his chin in thought Vanta adds absently, "The taking of something is an axiom of my school, that part I would resonate with, the accumulation of things as a result leave me uncomfortable." Vanta frowns.

"Take the winter wizards to help ensure those that can't are able to follow along," Viktor says, but doesn't pay much attention.

Two of the winter wizards come over and continue conversing with Vanta as they work through some additional models and support. The trio work through some calculations. Vanta nods at several points and the winter wizards complete Vanta's models with white frost and their own arcane energy. Cold is after all the absence of heat; therefore, they synergize quite well. As a trio they come up with a decent configuration that would be a combination of tangling tentacles and Icy ledges at intervals.

---

The barbarian gazed at the apparition, pondering what name to call out… or to even call out a name at all. The rational mind within him cautioned him against carelessly calling out any name, especially when he was warned that Azjorath hated hers. At the same time, he knew not to refuse a spirit's request so easily, especially a child of the Wind that answered his call. As the moments slipped by like rocks sliding down from a cliff, Uriah allowed his impulse to take over, calling out, "Child of the Hungry Wind, I thank thee and thy mother yet again. For this favor, I name thee 'Wyrmbourne,' for thy mother's favor slain a wyrm and henceforth thou appeared."

The mask upon the Wurmbourne's face shattered and reformed, the mouth lined in teeth like the mouth of the wurm and its eyes leaked red light the formed a contrail as it moved. The rest of its form grew more liquid, trailing and moving like black painted wind. Almost like paint smeared around by a paintbrush. After its seeming had reformed, it whispered like a hot gust of steam, "Between them are now was a concordance, bound by deed and name. They would walk the path together."

[Gained: Companion E - Wyrmbourne; A named Moon Wraith (usable only during Frozen Kingdom adventures or you pay points)]
[Unlocked: The Gift of Names F: Once per adventure you may name the nameless and establish a concordance with the name, thereafter bound by deed and name until the name is forgotten or lost. (usable only during Frozen Kingdom adventures or you pay points)]

As soon as he'd given the spirit a name, Uriah felt as if a burden had lifted from his back and the wind was no longer awaiting a grave answer to a burdensome question. Furthermore, the spirit appeared to graciously accept its new name, binding apparition and warrior through the remembrance of the Wind. Passing and forgetful the Wind may be, but an ally even for several days in these frozen planes will be crucial. Most certainly, the caravan will require as much help as possible when the plains have been torn asunder. Regarding that point, Uriah inquired, "I know that the Wind finds its way through every path, but doth thou know of a way or able to find a patg for those born of the Earth to pass through?"

"He asked of the Hungry Wind to know its way, to move as it moves, and of the Childe he asked even more. He would come to know that the Hungry Wind blows not just over these lands but along the forgotten places watching as it has the passage between the Hel-gates. The dark passages behind and through the world. And in his lee, hovering like a smoking shadow, the Wurmbourne considered and spoke thus: There are lost ways along the many scars of this world, the way is through not forward." The Wurmbourne pointed with one broken glass clawed finger towards the pit formed by the death of the [Cinder Scourge].

"There where dost the edges of two star crossed Childe of two Hel-gates doth conjoin is the way through to the older of rivers of Ginnungagap where all is forgotten and devoured by the void to makes thou anew washed clean."

---

Uriah and the Wurmbourne join everyone of note around the crevice as plans are being made and considerations given.

If Uriah was familiar with this kind of beast and the means to move the meat from crevice floor to plateau edge, he'd assist, but a more agile and knowledgeable pugilist took on the task already. Instead, Uriah spoke the matter of the way forward with the knight, "A battle well fought, knight. I know not thoust plan for the caravan's advance, but I have encountered a wraith of Wind, henceforth clept Wyrmbourne. Like the Wind, the children of it always find their way through any barricade or passage, a talent no doubt useful to use. The question now becomes whether the path Wyrmbourne finds is of suitable footing and breadth."

Vanta gets quite excited by the presence of the Wyrmbourne. "Is not rare for a child to be twice born? I had thought to glimpse one Azjorath's children devouring someone on this journey, but to see it so in the shadows breached and offering forgotten lore..."

Vanta and the other Winter Wizards become quite distracted and try to speak with the Wyrmbourne. Pooling all their knowledge together, they determine there is a way through, a possible short cut through to a small forgotten place, a borderlands of the ethereal cold in much the same way shadow is a gateway.

This greatly intrigues Viktor who listens at length. "A convergence of fates." He grunted, "This is a rare gift for the brave!"

Aurora of course is decidedly panicked at this point. "The children and merchants could not make such a journey!"

"What of it?" Viktor shrugs, "You run your caravan. I'll run the hunting party."

Thus, the fey hunter steps up to the group and finally addresses them directly. She curtly introduced herself, ignoring niceties to get straight to the point. "Excuse me. I'm one of the folks hired to help get this caravan through the snow fields. You can call me Hunter. The safest way out would be back the way we came, about a day's travel. Possibly a bit less if we push ourselves. From there, we'll need to move north-west and reach one of the noble roads and find a Shrine of Spring's Breath. It's not our original destination, but right now we've not the supplies nor man-power to push forward from here. We take this detour, we'll save a lot of lives and be able to resupply and continue our journey with better equipment and health." Looking over to the female beast-kin, Shalys casually begins petting her like the knight did. Shalys just figured that if the knight was allowed to do so, than Shalys could as well.

Everyone turned to look at Shalys. Reactions were mixed. There were those eager for more adventure and rich spoils. Then there were those who though of the meek and needy who could not descend into a glaciers heart, traverse through a severance, and face whatever darkness lied beyond where the Hungry Wind blew when no one was looking.

"This may not go well with certain members of the caravan here, but we need to travel as light as possible. Supplies for food and warmth, equipment to survive the tunrdra and fight off anymore monsters. We've no need for trophies that'll just weigh us down and lure beasts looking for scavenge." Shalys was blithely aware that she wasn't bothering to keep her tone down in proximity of the noble, who wanted to bring the worm's remains with them. They've already lost quite a few sleds but still had people, so some folks were going to have to squeeze together. It won't be any easier if a sled or two gets occupied by mostly worm parts and force others to pile on and subsequently slow down more sleds. "I recommend we leave now. Every second allows the next calamity to come ever closer. One is already too much, but for it to happen twice is such quick succession makes me believe a third is fast approaching."

"Of that, we agree," Viktor said. "If you go with me, there is risk but reward." He shrugged, casually stepping over the side of the crevice and floating in midair for a moment before he started to descend. "I have not the patience to convince the lessers amongst us; however, as a compromise I will send two of my dragoons and two winter wizards to see you through what hardships might offer." He paused and gave a faint, wistful smile gazing down at the scintillating warmth, still hot enough to keep the edges of the crevice slick and moist. "That is if his Holiness Finn and Sir Tyrmar wish to accompany me as we penetrate into the depths and plunder more booty then most see in a life time." He chuckled faintly as his body floated forward until he was poisoned right above the center of the crevice. "Oh and the Magus Vanta, he might be vital to puncturing through as the Wurmbourne says. The Barbarian Uriah would be vital as a result. We can at least harvest the corpse and decide if going through or back is best."

Aurora shivered, "I won't gainsay his lordship as is your right and privilege; however, if Finn wants to keep us warm through the journey and see these good people to safety, that would certainly be welcome, as our Guide Shalys has said. The risks below aren't worth the gain, transporting hundreds of pounds of monster materials would slow us down and we have a long journey around."

Viktor shrugged. "In the words of the ancients, one should make his decision within the space of seven breaths. It is a matter of being determined and having the spirit to break through to the other side!" With that Viktor's body plunged straight down into the depths, and he disappeared from sight.

OOC

There are two ways forward and not everyone needs to stick together. Depending on what people want to do, we could split within this thread (Option 1 + 2a) or if there's Option 1 + 2b, we could explore forking off a new thread on a new forum depending on how the split goes.

Option 1: Let Viktor depart with his entourage and just go overland together, parting ways and staying entirely with the caravan. Unknowns are the calamities, there's been some indication that there's more undead and perhaps they are now looking for revenge? The journey overland won't necessarily be peaceful, but it is the devil you know the most about.

Option 2a: Raid the corpse below. Vanta and the Winter Wizards have a way down. While some would get hurt and injured, Finn can heal even death so it's not really that dangerous. It's doable. Viktor has offered to transport stuff up. It would add about an hour or two all in to get the most important bits as fast as possible. You could stay longer to harvest more. Tyrmar knows more here. Viktor will leave 2 winter wizards and 2 dragoons to offset the PCs going down and watch over them.

Option 2b: Do 2a but stay longer, harvest more and perhaps pierce through the veil and enter strange, wondrous places and adventure. This could potentially offer a short cut much like a...dare I say it...wurmhole through two conjoined points on the map. In this case where the Cinder Scourge intersects the Heart of the Glacier is now a "scab that hasn't yet thickened", picking at it would allow the blood of the world to ooze and a way through. This could allow more adventure, higher risks and greater rewards, and a faster journey to [Shrine of Spring's Breath].

Spoiler: OOC for Record Keeping -- State of Affairs

Everyone is more or less gathered. Most of the adventurers / high grade folks are near the crevice.

Everyone else is close by about 30 feet away.

It was thirteen dog sleds pulling cargo, crew, and tourists. Finn was joined by a few others. They were a mix of adventure hungry fools and people running away from something.

Everyone had to work, even the tourists, of which the most annoying was Count Valleros' second eldest son, Viktor Von Valleros. Viktor and his entourage of dragoons and minions were out hunting polar bear and other more exotic creatures. They made up a full four sleds with each sled filled with gear plus three people.

4 Dog sleds were lost and Viktor had 4 (12 people, lost 1. Ignoring Viktor, that's 10 left in his entourage. 4 dragoons, 4 winter wizards, and 2 valets.

Of the remaining (13-4 = 9. Each sled had 4 people -> 36 total minus 4 PCs -> 32. Of the 32, 5 are children, 13 are adventurers (sled masters mostly), and 18 are merchants or npcs with skills other than martial/magic.
-- 10/18 non-combat follow Finn religiously now
-- 5/13 adventurer-sled masters follow Shalys
-- 5 children listen to Mimi (or their parents)
-- 25 have faith in Finn
-- 5 trust/listen Shalys
-- 1 Wurmbourne follows Uriah
-- 1 Vanta (basically a companion) follows Tyrmar

Uriah, Tyrmar Finn have the best chance of swaying Viktor to do something (e.g. lend an asset, companion, wealth, aid, change his mind, etc.), due largely to what they have to offer.

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar​

“Hmmm, while his delivery was quite rough I won’t lie and say the thought of an unknown exploration doesn’t fire me up.” With a wry grin he turned away from the steaming scar in the tundra to turn to the rest of the group, if in truth they would have to traverse a different route through the lands they’d be hard pressed to move as easily as before.

If Uriah was right then there were even more enemies on the horizon and Shalys was right in saying that the corpse would be bait for all manner of predators. That being said he didn’t know if one way or the other would be safer so he’d have to split the difference. From what small interactions they had Finn would go with whatever was best for the people and was most likely their best protection in their journey, whether they took the shortcut or continued on the altered path they’d need him to keep him safe.

“Haaaah, Ceylan and Ninelle must’ve infected me with their sweetness, I’m going to far too much trouble.” He muttered under his breath before turning to Shalys, Finn and the others.

“Alright well it seems we’re at a crossroads with no truly optimal choice, while you may be correct in seeking glory being dangerous the fact that there might be a heightened monster presence above ground itself will also be a factor. If we manage to work together I believe we can get everyone down there and be able to protect all the people while furthering our way towards our destination.”

“So I propose two options: We gather all our efforts to get the entire caravan down and try to access this tear to shorten our time at the risk of the unknown or I will be going down to gather portions of the beast and convincing Viktor to return with some parts for you all to take with you, I’ll then go through the rear with Viktor to this shrine and attempt to circle back from there and meet up with you with reinforcements in hand. What say you all?” He was low on options and resources, they’d almost been cast asunder by one bout of bad luck and barely escaped with everyone alive, could they truly survive another eight days of possibly the same or worse? He didn’t know but there had to be some way forward if they pushed hard enough. (Compassionate Charisma E)

Actions:

Speak to relevant characters with Compassionate Charisma E

Compassionate Charisma - [Leadership] E, [Peruasion] E, [Empathy] E - Though his appearance and positive demeanor may display otherwise, Tyrmar is one who has known suffering and sorrow. Through that sadness he identifies with the troubles of others and therefore becomes able to better relate to, comfort and lead them - Grade E - 1 Post Cooldown.

gmimperfecti Orikanyo QizPizza Norschtalen StarPrincessVal

 

[StarPrincessVal]

Mimi
​

Mentions: Orikanyo AbenSur Norschtalen gmimperfecti

As Mimi headed toward the hole in the ice she was suddenly stopped in her tracks by a hand on her head. Her tail wagged and she smiled warmly as the Fae woman began to pet her. She wasn't sure why these people were so friendly, but she didn't mind. It was a vast improvement over the treatment she had gotten her first few weeks of traveling. It was hard to focus on what was being said while receiving such treatment, but it sounded to Mimi like everyone was still deciding what they were going to do. The words of the one petting her sounded most agreeable. She couldn't think of a reason she needed to collect any parts of the worm. As the woman finally stopped petting her head, Mimi turned back to look at the hole in the ice. She watched as the scary looking human leaped into it. It seemed he had made up his mind. Now Mimi would have to decide what she was going to do.

 

[Orikanyo]

Finnegan Huttman


"...Hmm..." Finn looked away from the crevace, almost dismissive of the whole thing, he looked instead to the people around... He had made a choice it seems. "Kindness is a choice only for the powerful...? Perhaps, those with the luxury oft give to suffer in another's stead... But... I'm no fool to agree fully.

To spread the word of kindness, community and honor... Its a burden and a privilege to try and fight so that others may be safe enough to think of the well being of others.

A world at peace... That is my quest... That unreachable star..." his eyes skyward, he saw the sun shining... He felt its warmth... He was no holy man... He simply believed in goodness... The warmth of the sun... A kindness granted to all no matter what they have done...

He would as much, and shine not for one, but all.

"Let him have his toys, I don't care for the wurm and it's hide, i'll not have people put at risk for a trophy.

I shall be leaving with the caravan. There will be another day to hunt, there will always be another chance. But these people have but one life, and I shall protect it." He placed his sword back in his sheath, he looked doubly determined now, and seemed to have no more to say about the nobleman's proposition.

"But, likely we will need ime to properly prepare, if you've aim to send up things, have at it, we can spare an hour or two of preperations no? Dogs and affairs in order?" He regarded folks in the caravan with curious eyes. Though he stood next to Aurora... Yep... a hand came creeping... and... Lightly scratched behind her ear, though he doesn't seem to notice it too much.

"Well? Shall we?"

@ all around

 

[gmimperfecti]

Fronzen Kingdom Scene 3 - The Glacier's Heart.

Amidst the vast expanse of the fractured glacier, a colorful group of humans and beastkin huddled together for warmth around their dog sleds. The wind whispered through the crevices of the ice, echoing the exhaustion and hunger of the party. Their breaths hung in the air like ghosts, mingling with the whispers of the frozen tundra. Though weary and cold, their spirits remained unbroken, for they were bound together in a single purpose: to reach the Shrine of Spring's Breath and the safety it offered before they became yet another failed attempt by humanity to eek out a place in the Frozen Kingdom.

Eager eyes turned upwards, towards a gaping hole that bored deep into the heart of the glacier. It was as if the very earth had opened its mouth, inviting the brave to venture into its depths. On the precipice of the abyss, a group of heroes stood tall, their silhouettes illuminated by the soft glow of the aurora borealis.

Finn, the holy warrior, stood at the forefront, his golden aura gleaming like the first rays of dawn. His eyes shone with determination, a beacon of hope for the weary travelers. Tyrmar, the muscular fist fighter, flexed his powerful arms as he itched to descend into the hole, eager to unleash his strength upon the unknown.

Mimi, an adorable dogkin girl with eyes as bright as stars, looked up at the heroes with a mix of awe and curiosity. Her tail wagged in excitement, the rhythmic thumping providing a cheerful soundtrack to the gathering. Aurora, the arctic wolf girl, her silver-white fur glistening like freshly fallen snow, listened intently to the conversation, her keen ears picking up even the faintest whispers of the wind.

Off to the side, Vanta the shadow mage and a coterie of winter wizards hunched over ancient tomes, their minds focused on deciphering arcane formulas. The flickering cold light of their spells cast eerie shadows across the icy landscape, their chants mingling with the howling of the wind.

The heroes and their companions, united in their quest, found solace in one another's presence. Their conversation echoed across the icy expanse, quickly swallowed up by the cold, barren landscape. And as they prepared to decide upon whether or not to descend into the heart of the glacier, their resolve to stay as a group or to splinter into individuals was strained.

As the discussion between Finn and Tyrmar came to an end, the heroes and their companions mulled over the two options laid before them. The wind howled around them, as if nature itself were urging them to make a decision. A sense of unease seemed to settle over the group.

Tyrmar proposed two options, his voice heavy with the weight of responsibility: to continue the journey above on an unknown path together or to venture into glacier's heart and obtain portions of the beast, meeting up with the caravan later with reinforcements. His mind was filled with worry; could they really survive another eight days of hardships, with exhausted families and children in tow?

However, Finn, the holy warrior, contemplated the choices and eventually disagreed with venturing into the hole. "Let the Count's bastard son have his toys, I don't care for the wurm and its hide; I'll not have people put at risk for a trophy," he said, his voice filled with conviction.

After a pause, Finn continued, looking towards the tired and weary people by the dog sleds. "I shall be leaving with the caravan. There will be another day to hunt; there will always be another chance. But these people have but one life, and I shall protect it." As Finn placed his sword back in its sheath, his determination was palpable.

"But, likely we will need time to properly prepare. If you've aim to send up things, have at it. We can spare an hour or two of preparations, no? Dogs and affairs in order?" Finn regarded the caravan with compassionate eyes. As he stood next to Aurora, the winter wolf girl, his hand crept up to lightly scratch behind her ear. Aurora's tail wagged unconsciously, and for a moment, her gaze lingered on Finn, filled with a mixture of admiration and hidden affection, before she returned her attention to enjoying his gentle touch.

Mimi, the dogkin girl, tugged at Finn's armor, her bright eyes shimmering with determination. She voiced her agreement in barely auidble words as it was hard to focus on what was being said when Finn's other hand pet her head. The words of the one petting her sounded most agreeable. She couldn't think of a reason she needed to collect any parts of the worm.

Aurora, the arctic wolf girl, nodded her agreement, her silver-white fur dancing in the wind. "Mimi is right. We've come this far together, and we've faced many dangers. If we stay united, we can overcome anything that lies ahead. A delay will not hurt us, especially if it means we stay united. If Ser Tyrmar is able to shore up our food stores in so doing, all the better."

Shalys, a skilled archer with a heart as sharp as her arrows, added her voice to the mix. "I believe in our strength as well. We must face whatever awaits us, together. Both paths have unknowns, but it's better to confront it where we can best use our combined skills and talents."

------------------------------------------------------------
------- Group 1: Descending into the Glacier's Heart -------
------------------------------------------------------------

The group found itself divided by their decisions, but each respected the other's choice. Tyrmar's eyes sparkled with determination, and he didn't want to waste a single minute of the two hours he'd been given. He nodded, his muscular form tensing with renewed energy as a few random adventurers joined him.

Amongst the small party was the barbarian Uriah Ulricson, his wind-scarred face hard and his hands clutching raven-faced ice picks for the descent down into the glacier's heart. Behind Uriah was Wurmborne, a creature of the wind and moon, its body ribbons of darkness and reflections of lost dreams now bound with cinders. Eager to follow, it spoke in odd riddles to indicate its excitement.

Vanta, the shadow mage, and the four winter wizards finished their arcane ritual, causing icy platforms and eldritch tentacles to spout down the thousand-foot descent. It was a scene of beautiful nightmare, the cold of the glacier's heart barely kept at bay by the magics of the winter wizards.

All assembled began their descent. There were problems along the way. Some people stumbled or slipped, their feet losing purchase on the treacherous ice. One adventurer nearly died, saved only by the quick reflexes of their comrades.

As the adventurers approached the heart of the glacier, an eerie glow emanated from the still-smoking corpse of the cinder scourge. This 40-foot wurm, part dragon and part abomination, lay bisected in half, right down the middle. Molten salt leaked from its body, resisting the terrible cold at the heart of the glacier, and pools of the substance formed in its cavities. Acrid smoke wafted from the lifeless creature, tainting the air with its pungent odor.

The noble bastard, Viktor, walked among the slush, ice, and bits of the corpse, inspecting it for important occult ingredients. His floating moon blade slashed apart the sections he pointed to, the weapon moving with deadly precision.

When Tyrmar dropped down from the climb, Viktor acknowledged him with a mad gleam in his eye. "Ah, Tyrmar! We must harvest the corpse quickly!" he urged, his excitement palpable.

As they worked, they noticed odd holes in the icy cavern where tiny symbiotes had fled, burrowing through the ice in a desperate bid for escape.

Deeper within the ice, the group discovered the Glacier Heart. This gleaming, fist-sized diamond embodied all the cold magics of the glacier, its crystalline structure refracting light into mesmerizing patterns.

The adventurers marveled at the Glacier Heart, its beauty a stark contrast to the carnage that surrounded them. They knew that this powerful artifact could hold the key to unlocking ancient secrets and untold power.

But time was of the essence, and the group worked diligently to harvest the cinder scourge's valuable remains. With each piece they collected, they moved closer to unraveling the mysteries that lay at the heart of the wurm and to finding the fragment of Hel-heart that powered it.

As the heroes toiled, their minds wandered back to their companions, those who had chosen to protect the caravan. Though they were separated, the bond they shared transcended distance, uniting them in spirit as they each pursued their own path, striving to bring hope and light to a world that so desperately needed it.

------------------------------------------------------------
------- Group 2: Preparing the Caravan for travel ----------
------------------------------------------------------------

The caravan was a motley assembly of individuals, each with their own stories, struggles, and hopes for the journey. Sled masters worked diligently with their loyal dogs, communicating with a series of barks and whistles, ensuring the sleds were ready for departure. Families clung to one another, providing comfort and warmth in the face of an uncertain future, while merchants carefully tended to their remaining goods, salvaging whatever they could from the frigid wasteland.

Finn, the holy warrior, walked amongst them, his golden aura casting a warm, reassuring glow on those around him. His presence lifted their spirits, the light he emanated serving as a symbol of hope and protection.

Mimi, the adorable dogkin girl, and Aurora, the enigmatic arctic wolf girl, followed Finn, doing their best to help get the caravan ready to depart. Their youthful energy and optimism were infectious, and they brought a measure of joy to the weary travelers.

Meanwhile, Shalys, an elven scout with sharp eyes and keen senses, patrolled the perimeter, searching for signs of the hungry undead or arctic monsters that had plagued their journey. As she scanned the horizon, she spotted several potential antagonists closing in from different directions. Her heart raced as she realized the danger they were in.

Shalys rushed back to the caravan, her urgent warning setting off a panic amongst the group. Fearful murmurs and cries filled the air as the travelers scrambled to prepare for the impending threat.

A cloud of white mist appeared in the distance, ominous and foreboding. It seemed to roll towards the caravan like an unstoppable wave, carrying with it the hungry cries of the undead on the wind. The chilling wails sent shivers down the spines of the travelers, a reminder of the relentless danger that pursued them. However, the army of undead was still just on the horizon, giving the caravan precious time to prepare for the confrontation.

But closer threats lurked nearby.

Much closer what had initially seemed like ordinary snowbanks or mounds of snow began to move and shift, revealing themselves to be sentient creatures formed of snow and ice. These glacial oozes appeared as translucent bluish-white icy sludge, each one roughly 10 feet in size, with some even larger. Their gelatinous, glassy bodies shimmered in the cold light, an eerie sight to behold.

Like many oozes, the glacial oozes were scavengers, feeding on the carcasses of once-living creatures that had frozen to death in the unforgiving arctic landscape. As they sensed the presence of the caravan, they began to form pseudopods, their frosty appendages reaching hungrily towards the unsuspecting travelers.

Scattered all around to the east, the glacial oozes were a mere hundred to a thousand feet away, closing in on the caravan with alarming speed. The caravan members, now aware of this immediate threat, tried to spring into action, but the repeated assaults were dulling their senses. The cold and wind were relentless in weathering away any exposed weakness, and the caravan had exposed many such weaknesses!

The sled masters and merchants started to move lethargically to prepare to fend off any oozes but mostly they huddled together, praying for the safety of their loved ones and the strength to withstand the impending onslaught.

As the glacial oozes drew nearer, the frigid air hummed with tension, the ice and snow trembling beneath the weight of the impending clash between the living and the frozen scavengers.

 

[Orikanyo]

Finn



Good... people were getting hopeful again... It's all he could ask in truth. What else could he ask for? The faintest hope of a better tomorrow? The fact others will rely upon him to do his best to make certain that tomorrow comes? For better or worse, he shall make it so these people will survive... The hope that keeps him alive and fighting, shall be theirs. His is an endless fount, and it's his duty to distribute it to the masses.

People live, people die, what happens in between is what matters, each day, each hour, each minute, is sacred... Even if you do not take a step forward on this day, the next day still will come.

Hope.

The desire to keep making that next step, no matter how long it takes...

"Dream the impossible dream..." he voiced to himself, time would need to be taken for others to get ready, he would have to make certain this time is not interrupted by those who dare to impede it.

He can only do so much, but what he can do WILL be done.

Setting his light aflame once more, he set off to work...

Foes incoming, he shall see they fall short of their goals, his light of weal shall be their woe.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
With the slimes on the horizon, he remembered his time in the time in the Duchy, those slimes and the desire to be free in their innocence... And the eventual betrayal they made when fused together. They abused his good will, they should have been destroyed... One of his many failures...

Now again he is beset by their kind, it was time to go to work.

He would head east, standing in the forefront of their approach, he sized the foes and made his measurements. He was no mathematician, but he knew his sword like his own hand, though he had no clue where the holy powers came from, he used them like his own power. The well within burst forth once more. Perhaps this will simply split the oozes, but... No doubt... The Holy power will still burn them.

On his point ahead of the pack, he observed the foes and with a anchoring stance upon the snow and ice he lit the blade alight... Time had passed, his mana had returned... he would unleash his power first and foremost, may these oozes be put back from whence they came.

"BEGONE!"

Horde Breaker Fighting Style B, Area C, Holy Affinity F, Drain Strength E, A strike at full power, covering a mass swathe of foes in one strike with punishing rays of light sapping the strength of those who still stand after. Grade B (5*) 500 feet aoe 4 post cooldown Actions 2

Actions
A1: Movement
A2/3: Ability. Effectiveness: 16 500 feet area of effect.

Cooldowns
B 0/4

 

[StarPrincessVal]

Mimi

Mentions: Orikanyo gmimperfecti​

Mimi ran back and forth from goods pile to sled, tromping through the waist high snow as best she could. The boxes barely felt heavy at all in her arms as she loaded them down, listening to the drivers of each sled tell her which crates to bring. Her tail wagged as she worked, thrilled to be useful and part of the group. Even though this trip had been a nightmare, it had shown her that she could find a place in the world to fit in. She wasn't sure this was that place, but she now believed she'd find it one day. She liked the tall blonde haired human, what was his name... Finn. Aurora had bested Mimi and even she seemed to follow Finn around so he must be strong. He was nice to her too. Strong and nice. Good traits for a leader. The girl with the large strange weapon was nice too, but she seemed quiet and like she preferred to keep to herself.

As the oozes began to squirm from the snow banks and move on the caravan, Mimi's ears flattened and her fangs bared as she let out a low snarl. Things just did not seem to be letting up today. Dropping the crate she was carrying, she moved quickly to Finn's side at the front of the group, ready to defend the people. Something about these creatures approaching them seemed familiar, but she couldn't quite pin point why. But she definitely knew they were hostile, even before Finn unleashed a glowing attack with his sword. Mimi watched in anticipation eager to see if any of the slimes remained and where they would strike, prepared to intercept if she needed to.

Action 1: Move
Action 2: Assist civilians in Attack
Action 3: Assist civilians in Attack

 

[QizPizza]

Uriah Ulricson

Art by Victor Santos
Link to CS

Spoiler: Mentions/Interactions

Mentions: Orikanyo (Finn)
Interactions: gmimperfecti (GM) AbenSur (Tyrmar) (GROUP 1)

Spoiler: Used Abilities

-NA
​

Spoiler: TLDR

Actions:
-Gained [The Gift of Names F]
-Hacks away at the Cinder Scourge's corpse
-Requests Wyrmbourne's assistance (Grade E) in harvesting the corpse

Cooldowns:
-NA

Current Conditions:
- NA

With the new name upon their being, Wyrmbourne's mask broke like the brittle ice upon a frozen pond, revealing a dark whirlpool of shadow for a brief moment before its mask became wyrm-like in appearance, sawtoothed with blazing eyes. The wisdom it offered was difficult, though not unwelcome. Uriah's eyes followed its glass claw towards the chasm formed by the serpent just slain and hardened. A journey into that pit was not one the average merchant or traveler could trek, especially should further children of these Hel-Gates the spirit mentioned be like the beast they faced just now.

This knowledge was brought to the counsel of the most influential of the travelers, those bearing great power in magic such as the Winter Wizards and Vanta, the mage of dark crevices and irreverent spells. Though Uriah's knowledge of the gods and spirits of the Wind was broader than most, the lore that these men discussed was beyond even him. There were histories of spirits and locales whose names were never uttered on Vindrhal for lack of understanding. However, the knowledge led to the same conclusion in the eyes of the houndmaster: the way forward was untenable for the less hardy of the travelers.

Among the caravan, there were certainly those who wished to push forward, such as the Magi and the nobleman's hunting party, but there were also children and merchants among the population. There was no clear majority, and any choice except returning to the previous town would put the villagers at risk.

To Uriah, the choice was clear. He would push forward at the risk of the remainder of the caravan's safety and follow Viktor into the crevice. Even if all others chose to retreat, Uriah would be tempted to venture on by himself. He was not persuaded by any promise of riches, glory, or adventure, though they all were points of consideration. No, the sole reason for his desire to continue on was the guidance of the Wind. Wyrmbourne was provided by the mercy of the Hungry Wind to be his companion and he would do well to listen to the Wind's guidance.

At the moment of decision, Uriah offered no opinion, for he would not dare to influence the fateful decisions of others with his desire to pursue his newfound personal pilgrimage. Without an overwhelming opinion towards any one of the two options proposed by the brawler of the thunder, the party split. The knight would lead the weary back to safety, while the hunting party would venture forth with Uriah and Wyrmbourne guiding the way. However, before they fully committed to their paths, the knight had to ready his sleds and group, while the brawler offered to harvest the spoils of the wyrm for the return trip.

Descending the mountainous chasm was no small ordeal, even with the nightmarish constructs that came from the minds of the Winter Wizards and Vanta. Uriah appropriated some climbing tools for his descent, carefully moving from foothold to foothold. Even with a lifetime of living in the mountains, this presented a particularly perilous path downwards. He was no ashamed to admit that the ice picks he borrowed kept a false foothold from taking his life more than once. In the end, though, the party reached the corpse of the wyrm all alive, if not a bit unsettled by the unnaturally hot blood that turned the cavern into a humid and acrid pit. Uriah questioned how this flesh could be edible, but the brawler named Tyrmar seemed to be convinced so.

The barbarian quickly accepted the fact that the group had settled on scavenging this beast. If not to provide the retreating party with replenishment of supplies, then to provide the advancing group with necessary sustenance for the journey ahead. At first, Uriah tried to work with his knives to carve away at the beast, but with a monster longer than six men tall, he would make minuscule progress. He'd eventually resort to hacking away at the flesh with his axe as if he were splitting logs. Powerful, precise blows that took advantage of his tool's heavy head to cleave the beast into manageable chunks. Between swings and his labored grunts, the barbarian requested, "Wyrmbourne, I beseech thee for thy helping hand in harvesting this beast before us. I see no progress made if we do not abide by the wishes of the compassionate Tyrmar or the alchemical whims of the noble Viktor."

 

[Norschtalen]

Shalys Dar’Miam "Hunter"

Location: Caravan

Interactions: Slimes she's shooting​

---

Shalys didn't have much to say or add as everyone was debating what to do. She herself intends to go with the caravan regardless of what the decision was, so she abstained from adding to the conversation. If the caravan went into the ravine, she'd have no choice but to go. But luckily most decided to head out to the Shrine, which was exactly what Shalys had hoped for. With everyone making their preparations to leave, Shalys took some time to cobble together some extra bolts for the journey out of here. With less people means that they could travel slightly faster, but it also meant that their manpower was lessen. Shalys would have to work extra hard to watch out for the caravan. Fortunately for her it almost felt like she had gotten a lot better at spotting things in this frozen kingdom, so she was able to serve as a capable watch guard for the most part.

And for better or for worse, Shayls did find trouble before it found them. Trouble was inevitable so Shalys returned to the group and warned them of the threats, and got ready to defend the caravan. Their opponents today would be glacial slimes. If she recalls correctly, slimes in general were quite physically tough, though not particularly bright nor warded against magics. Unfortunately Shalys wasn't one of those types of elves who knew a lot of magic, but she did know alchemy. With the caravan split supplies that couldn't be taken were used or abandoned. Shalys took the opportunity to use said supplies to make some new bolts, in particular explosive bolt shafts. While the materials she ahd on hand wasn't really enough to make an impressive bomb, these bolts ought to add some elemental oomph to her otherwise mundane bolts.

Finn and Mimi ran into the thick of the melee. Shalys wouldn't be too far behind, however she was prioritizing protecting the caravan over directly engaging with the slimes. Besides Finn was up front and he was more than capable of handling himself, last thing he needs is to save Shalys because of bad positioning. Not to mention that the Slimes, as dumb as they are, might just go around him and go towards the caravan since it's a bigger and relatively less dangerous threat, and that's where Shalys comes in. She shot at any slime that she could see, and when they got around 30ft she blasted them with her new blast bolts. Even with an indirect hit, the bolts would explode into shrapnel and flames, tearing up the slimes. She made sure to have a good sense of the battlefield, aiming her bolts where she felt they would be needed the most to patch up any holes in their defenses. The faster they move through this horde, the less likely unwanted threats will show up to scavenge.


Action 1 - Movement
Action 2 - Shoot at Slimes 100ft away
Action 3 - Use Crowd Control E on Slimes within 30ft

Spoiler: Abilities Used

Crowd Control - Elven Archery E, Far-Shot E, Sharpshooter F, Blast Shaft F, Barbed Bolt F - Using some experimental explosive bolts, Shalys can blast her enemies with small shrapnel bombs fired from her bowgun. - Grade E - 0/1 Post Cooldown

 

[gmimperfecti]

As the glacial oozes drew closer, the caravan members swiftly prepared for the impending threat. Sled masters tightened their harnesses and checked the equipment on their dogs, ensuring they were ready for a hasty escape if necessary. Merchants secured their goods, doing their best to protect their livelihoods from the encroaching danger. Families huddled together, each member gathering their courage and strength, bracing themselves for the coming battle.

Mimi, the adorable dogkin girl, raced back and forth between the goods pile and the sleds, tromping through the waist-high snow as best she could. Her strong arms hoisted the heavy boxes with surprising ease, and her tail wagged happily as she worked. She listened attentively to the sled drivers, who directed her on which crates to bring. Despite the harrowing journey they had all faced thus far, Mimi was grateful for the opportunity to be useful and part of the group.

Mimi ran back and forth from goods pile to sled, tromping through the waist high snow as best she could. The boxes barely felt heavy at all in her arms as she loaded them down, listening to the drivers of each sled tell her which crates to bring. Her tail wagged as she worked, thrilled to be useful and part of the group. Even though this trip had been a nightmare, it had shown her that she could find a place in the world to fit in.

As the oozes began to squirm from the snow banks and move on the caravan, Mimi's ears flattened and her fangs bared as she let out a low snarl. Things just did not seem to be letting up today. Dropping the crate she was carrying, she moved quickly to Finn's side at the front of the group, ready to defend the people. Something about these creatures approaching them seemed familiar, but she couldn't quite pin point why. But she definitely knew they were hostile, even before Finn unleashed a glowing attack with his sword. Mimi watched in anticipation eager to see if any of the slimes remained and where they would strike, prepared to intercept if she needed to.

As the oozes approached, Mimi's ears flattened and her fangs bared, signaling her readiness for battle. She dropped the crate she was carrying and swiftly moved to Finn's side at the front of the group. As Finn readied to unleashed another glowing attack with his sword, Mimi stood ready on the balls of her feet, watching for any that might get through.

she did know alchemy. With the caravan split supplies that couldn't be taken were used or abandoned. Shalys took the opportunity to use said supplies to make some new bolts, in particular explosive bolt shafts. While the materials she ahd on hand wasn't really enough to make an impressive bomb, these bolts ought to add some elemental oomph to her otherwise mundane bolts.

Finn and Mimi ran into the thick of the melee. Shalys wouldn't be too far behind, however she was prioritizing protecting the caravan over directly engaging with the slimes. Besides Finn was up front and he was more than capable of handling himself, last thing he needs is to save Shalys because of bad positioning. Not to mention that the Slimes, as dumb as they are, might just go around him and go towards the caravan since it's a bigger and relatively less dangerous threat, and that's where Shalys comes in. She shot at any slime that she could see, and when they got around 30ft she blasted them with her new blast bolts. Even with an indirect hit, the bolts would explode into shrapnel and flames, tearing up the slimes. She made sure to have a good sense of the battlefield, aiming her bolts where she felt they would be needed the most to patch up any holes in their defenses. The faster they move through this horde, the less likely unwanted threats will show up to scavenge.

Shalys, the elven scout, was keenly aware of the danger the glacial oozes posed to the caravan. Knowing that their physical toughness made them difficult to damage through conventional means, she turned to her alchemical knowledge to create a weapon capable of inflicting significant harm.

Gathering the necessary materials from the abandoned supplies, she set to work crafting explosive bolts for her crossbow. Shalys meticulously mixed volatile compounds, ensuring the right balance to achieve a potent yet stable reaction. She carefully packed the explosive mixture into the hollowed-out shafts of her crossbow bolts, sealing them tightly to prevent any accidental detonations.

Next, Shalys fashioned impact-sensitive tips for the bolts, designed to trigger the explosive charge upon striking a target. This would ensure that the full force of the explosion was unleashed inside the tough, icy bodies of the glacial oozes, maximizing the damage dealt.

With her new ammunition crafted, Shalys loaded her crossbow and took up a strategic position near the caravan. She scanned the horizon, watching as the translucent, bluish-white forms of the glacial oozes drew nearer. She could see their gelatinous bodies shifting and pulsating, forming pseudopods that reached out in anticipation of their next meal.

As the oozes came within range, Shalys took a deep breath and steadied her aim. She had only one chance to make each shot count, as the volatile nature of her explosive bolts meant she had a limited supply. Her keen elven senses and sharp reflexes were put to the test as she carefully tracked the movement of the oozes, timing her shots for maximum effect.

With a quiet determination, Shalys unleashed her explosive bolts, watching as they streaked through the air and found their targets. The impact-sensitive tips performed flawlessly, detonating the explosive charges within the oozes and causing them to shudder and convulse as the force of the blasts tore through their icy forms.

The caravan watched in awe as Shalys expertly wielded her alchemical creations against the glacial oozes, her skill and ingenuity providing them with a fighting chance against the relentless onslaught of the frozen landscape.

Now again he is beset by their kind, it was time to go to work.

He would head east, standing in the forefront of their approach, he sized the foes and made his measurements. He was no mathematician, but he knew his sword like his own hand, though he had no clue where the holy powers came from, he used them like his own power. The well within burst forth once more. Perhaps this will simply split the oozes, but... No doubt... The Holy power will still burn them.

On his point ahead of the pack, he observed the foes and with a anchoring stance upon the snow and ice he lit the blade alight... Time had passed, his mana had returned... he would unleash his power first and foremost, may these oozes be put back from whence they came.

"BEGONE!"

Horde Breaker Fighting Style B, Area C, Holy Affinity F, Drain Strength E, A strike at full power, covering a mass swathe of foes in one strike with punishing rays of light sapping the strength of those who still stand after. Grade B (5*) 500 feet aoe 4 post cooldown Actions 2

The battle continued to rage on, but the tide was turning in favor of the caravan. As the heroes fought off the remaining glacial oozes, Finn drew upon his inner reservoir of power, his golden aura intensifying until it practically radiated with divine energy.

In the midst of the battle, Mimi's sharp claws and powerful bite tore through the icy bodies of the oozes, causing them to shudder and lose their form. She fought fiercely alongside Finn, their coordinated efforts becoming more fluid as they anticipated each other's moves and provided support when needed.

The warmth of Finn's golden aura seemed to invigorate anyone it caressed, filling all with an inner strength as they defended the caravan. Everyone felt a sense of belonging and unity as they fought alongside Finn, Shalys, Aurora, and the others.

As Finn prepared to face the glacial oozes, he felt the well of holy power within him surge, ready to be unleashed. He stood at the forefront of the approaching creatures, his sword held confidently in his hand. He had no idea where this holy power came from, but he had learned to wield it as if it were his own.

With a deep breath, Finn planted his feet firmly in the snow and ice, anchoring himself against the impending onslaught. His sword began to glow with a radiant light, the power within him reaching its peak. He was well aware that simply splitting the oozes might not be enough to defeat them, but he was confident that the holy energy coursing through him would scorch the creatures and send them back to the icy depths from which they came.

With a battle cry of "BEGONE!" Finn unleashed his full power, activating his Horde Breaker Fighting Style B. A brilliant wave of light burst forth from his sword, cutting through the air in a massive 500-foot arc, targeting the entire mass of oozes. As the punishing rays of light struck the creatures, their strength was sapped by Finn's Drain Strength E ability.

The sheer force of Finn's attack was overwhelming, and the battlefield was soon littered with the remnants of the glacial oozes, their icy forms reduced to steaming puddles. The few oozes that remained standing after the onslaught were weakened and easily dispatched by the other heroes.

Finn's display of power and determination sent a wave of courage through the caravan. The people knew they could rely on him and the other heroes to protect them from the dangers of this unforgiving landscape. As they pressed on, Finn knew he would need time to recover from his powerful attack, but he also knew that, together, the group could face any challenge that lay ahead.

With the glacial oozes defeated, the caravan quickly set to work dealing with the aftermath. People worked together to clean up the scattered remains of the icy creatures, while merchants saw an opportunity to salvage some value from the encounter. They carefully collected the essence of the glacial oozes, knowing that these rare components could fetch a high price in the right market. The caravan as a whole felt a renewed sense of camaraderie and determination, their spirits lifted by the heroic efforts of Finn and the other defenders.

However, even as the caravan regrouped and prepared to continue their journey, the threat of the undead army far in the distance loomed ever closer. Shalys, with her keen elven eyes, could see the hazy outline of the approaching horde, shrouded in a swirling wall of frozen mist and flurries of snow. Though the undead were still some distance away, the sight was a dark reminder of the ever-present danger that stalked them. Hopefully, they would be able to navigate the treacherous path ahead and reach the safety of the Shrine.

 

[gmimperfecti]

Descending the mountainous chasm was no small ordeal, even with the nightmarish constructs that came from the minds of the Winter Wizards and Vanta. Uriah appropriated some climbing tools for his descent, carefully moving from foothold to foothold. Even with a lifetime of living in the mountains, this presented a particularly perilous path downwards. He was no ashamed to admit that the ice picks he borrowed kept a false foothold from taking his life more than once. In the end, though, the party reached the corpse of the wyrm all alive, if not a bit unsettled by the unnaturally hot blood that turned the cavern into a humid and acrid pit. Uriah questioned how this flesh could be edible, but the brawler named Tyrmar seemed to be convinced so.

Deep within the heart of the glacier, Tyrmar and his small party worked diligently to harvest the valuable resources from the enormous corpse of the Cinder Scourge. The air was icy cold, and the molten salt that leaked from the bisected wurm's body hissed and steamed as it fought against the freezing temperatures.

Tyrmar, with his keen knowledge of anatomy and culinary expertise, deftly carved choice cuts of meat from the monstrous creature. He removed salt glands with the precision of a skilled surgeon, knowing that these rare components could be used for both cooking and alchemical purposes. His muscular form moved with a determined efficiency, his eyes focused and filled with purpose.

Meanwhile, Viktor concentrated on the more arcane aspects of the Cinder Scourge's remains. He was particularly interested in the organic control nodes, fist-sized chunks that once played a vital role in controlling the creature's massive exoskeleton carapace. Viktor knew that these nodes held great power, and if he could extract them without damaging their delicate structure, they could be used for powerful enchantments or perhaps even to create new forms of weaponry.

The rest of their small party, including the enigmatic Wurmborne and the grizzled barbarian Uriah Ulricson, kept watch for any signs of danger. They knew that the glacier was a treacherous place, filled with hidden threats and unexpected surprises. They remained vigilant, their weapons at the ready, while Tyrmar and Viktor worked.

As the group continued their careful harvesting, the atmosphere in the heart of the glacier remained tense. They were well aware that time was of the essence, and that every moment spent in this frigid, inhospitable place brought them closer to the dangers that lurked within the frozen depths. Yet the potential rewards of their efforts drove them onward, determined to make the most of the opportunity before them.

The barbarian quickly accepted the fact that the group had settled on scavenging this beast. If not to provide the retreating party with replenishment of supplies, then to provide the advancing group with necessary sustenance for the journey ahead. At first, Uriah tried to work with his knives to carve away at the beast, but with a monster longer than six men tall, he would make minuscule progress. He'd eventually resort to hacking away at the flesh with his axe as if he were splitting logs. Powerful, precise blows that took advantage of his tool's heavy head to cleave the beast into manageable chunks. Between swings and his labored grunts, the barbarian requested, "Wyrmbourne, I beseech thee for thy helping hand in harvesting this beast before us. I see no progress made if we do not abide by the wishes of the compassionate Tyrmar or the alchemical whims of the noble Viktor."

Wurmborne, the enigmatic creature of wind and moon, turned its attention to Uriah's request. Its body, a strange combination of darkness and reflections of lost dreams bound with cinders, shifted and undulated as it considered the barbarian's words. The Wurmborne's ever-changing form seemed to adapt to the task at hand, as it was always eager to assist its allies in their endeavors.

With a nod of agreement, the Wurmborne approached the Cinder Scourge's corpse. Its form changed further, its limbs lengthening and sharpening, taking on an almost blade-like appearance. The creature began to work in tandem with Uriah, slicing through the monstrous flesh with an eerie grace and efficiency that belied its seemingly chaotic form. As they worked, the Wurmborne hummed a haunting melody, its voice a blend of soft whispers and distant echoes.

While Uriah hacked away with his axe, the Wurmborne's otherworldly limbs carved intricate patterns into the flesh, deftly removing chunks of valuable meat and organs. The two made an unlikely but effective team, their efforts steadily increasing the amount of material they were able to harvest from the fallen beast.

As they continued their work, the Wurmborne occasionally paused to whisper cryptic riddles and observations to Uriah, hinting at secrets hidden deep within the glacier's icy depths. Together, they worked tirelessly, driven by their shared determination to make the most of the opportunity before them and to aid their companions in their perilous journey ahead.

 

[StarPrincessVal]

Mimi

Mentions: Orikanyo gmimperfecti​

Mimi watched curiously as several of the merchants sifted through the steaming puddled remains of the glacial oozes. They were pulling something out and placing them in bags. Her curiosity peaked, Mimi approached one of the puddles and stuck her hands in. The outside was tough, like the skin of a grape, but, with a little pressure, her hands slipped inside. The inside was warm and viscous, like oil. She moved them around and before long her hands bumped against something solid. She gripped it and pulled, removing a small round translucent crystal the same color as the glacial ooze. Her tail wagged as she examined the crystal, holding it up to the moon to get a better view. It sparkled in the light with an icy pattern. She stuck her hand back in and continued to sift until she found another. After a few moments she had come away with five of them. Carrying them in her arms, she made her way over to Finn and laid them at his feet. "Watch these, please." Without waiting for an answer she moved to another steaming puddle and jammed her hands into it. This one only had three of the crystals. She ran and placed these at Finn's feet with the others before moving to another puddle. With three more in hand, she returned to Finn and sat down, placing the orbs one at a time into her bag. As she got to the last one, she stood up and held it out to Finn, her tail wagging and a big smile on her face.

With her backpack now filled with the Glacial Slime Essences, she finished helping with the final preparations for leaving, then returned to Finn.

 

[Norschtalen]

Shalys Dar’Miam "Hunter"

Location: Caravan

Interactions: Mimi and Finn​

---

Compared to dealing with the crow swarm and what followed after, these glacial slimes went down quickly. Shalys wasn't complaining, knowing that at any moment something even worse could crawl out of the darkness. The caravanners were quick to start harvesting slimes, and Shalys knew the value of the ooze for alchemy. Not to mention she wanted folks to move on quicky, so if she helps gathering up materials. Contrary to popular belief, slimes do have some anatomy, even if it's not quite as obvious as conventional flesh creatures. If she remembers correctly all slimes have a sort of heart/brain organ that controls their movements, and when they die this organ will go stiff and become somewhat solid. These organs are commonly called their essence, which isn't wrong but not quite correct. But it is valuable in alchemy, so Shalys takes out her knife and harvests these parts out.

As she works on harvesting essence out, she notes that Mimi seemed to know what she's doing too, though she uses her bare hands. Not what Shalys would recommend given that slimes can still be somewhat dangerous even after death. So after Shalys harvests some slime essence, she walks over to Mimi and gently takes her hands. Shalys takes a clean cloth and helps try to warm them up, knowing that the slime ooze can easily freeze someone's hands without them knowing. A thin, invisible membrane may persist and sap away moisture and warmth easily. So after wiping Mimi's hands, Shalys holds them between her own hands and close to her body so it warms up. "We should move quickly. The undead are still too close for comfort. If we have a moment, we may be able to work these essence into a salve that can help ward off the chill."

 

[Orikanyo]

Finnegan


interactions: StarPrincessVal Mimi Norschtalen Shalys

​

....HOW COULD ONE PERSON BE THIS CUTE!!!

Finn simply held a smile and closed his eyes, mostly to stop from tearing up from the pure unadulterated sweetness that was this girl named Mimi. He just wanted to spoil and hug this little adorable thing like nobody's business! Oh! The elven girl is actually talking to them now and...

She...

The man looked at the small scene for roughly about five seconds before he got hit with a fatal dosage of cuteness.

A grade vitality internal defenses proct, heart holding on, instinctively utilizing C grade healing spell now.

He briefly shined for a second as his body stopped the possibly fatal arrow of cuteness puncturing his heart.

He wipes away a little bit of blood from his mouth as he realizes he.. was still holding onto that slime essence he was handed by Mimi. "i will trust your judgement ranger, though I don't know your name.. I think your a trustworthy sort. Given your takeing care of the caravan sweetheart after all hahaha!" the man laughed, even if his body hurt still. "Finnegan, by the by, I hope we'll have many adventures ahead." he spoke happily, though the slime essence currently in his hand seemed to be having abit of a fit of trying to hurt him.

"I believe you may be right, lets try and hurry along. The others certainly should be ready now... Oh, have you come from the See Ms.Ranger? Not to be making assumptions of course, I've done some work there is all. Lovely place, to think people could live so in tune with nature, perhaps if we humans could see and hear the world as Elves could we could as well." he mused lightly, not resisting his urge to pet Mimi any longer... With his unslimed hand of course.