New Frontiers #79

[GM Mad]

New Frontiers #79


Yusef reveals to Silvarn his connection to the Deville family.

"Yes, ma'am. I'm sorry to say that Daniel Deville was my father." Yusef pauses to consider the question. "I know they have some business partners down in Athenos and Kingsport. It's possible they would flee to one of those cities. I can provide some names if it would help."

Something else suddenly occurs to the young tiefling. "Wait. I know of another place; I've never been there, but I've heard tell of it. The Deville’s have a vacation home on the shore of Lake Amsorak, roughly a day's travel south of Akorros. They might very well have gone there, as few know of it."

“There’s no need to be sorry,” Silvarn will softly say. “You had no choice when it came to your parentage. Thank you for this information. I will see that it is given to the proper people.”

“I should warn you that the King himself has decreed that the Deville’s be hunted down for their transgressions. It is an understandable reaction in light of what transpired. You may wish to keep your ties to them private for your own safety.”


The rest of the day passes by. The priests cast what defensive spells they have in memory. Olivia and the Priests of Heironeous and Helm assist in the task. Between everyone, more of the fortress is covered than it was during the previous attack.

The night passes without incident.


Morning comes and the Guardians are ready to begin their assault on Auril’s Ice Palace. Supplies of food and drink are prepared for the journey. Argent casts Identify on the tiara she found and discovers its magical traits.


The group gathers on the upper battlements with Silvarn.

“All ready to go? Very good then. I must commend you on your courage and your bravery. You’re a credit to your people. Now what I am about to reveal to you is to be kept secret. Many already known, but lets not allow it to become common knowledge.”

Silvarn will wink at Grondar as she speaks as if they share a secret. Silvarn then steps to the edge of the battlements. Much to your amazement she then steps off!

“I’ll be right back,” Silvarn promises with a smile. A silvery hue comes over her body as she walks off the edge of the fortress.

[GM Mad]

True to her word Silvarn returns, but this time in her true silver dragon form. Her body is easily over 100’ long from snout to tail tip and her skin resembles living, molten silver. The sunlight glistens and reflects from her skin.

Hovering near the edge of the battlements, Silvarn will call out, “Climb on my back! I’ll fly you to the Ice Palace directly!”

Grondar can reassure anyone who seems reluctant to do so, since he’s done this before.

Once everyone is on Silvarn’s back and holding on, the dragon’s great wings begin to beat and you rise higher into the air. Silvarn begins to head on a northeasterly course away from Fort Fletcher. Those close to her head can hear her begin to chant words to a spell.

Suddenly, the world around you becomes colorless and Silvarn accelerates to seemingly impossible velocities. The terrain below passes by in a blur.

Just as suddenly as the trip started, it slows and ends. A large, multi-towered palace seeming composed of ice comes into view. Silvarn slows and flies towards the tallest tower.

The top of the tower is flat with a low wall surrounding it. The tower is circular and measures sixty feet across. There is one opening in the floor and stairs going down can be seen.

Silvarn slows to a hover and positions herself next to the tower top.

“Here you go,” Silvarn says, looking back at her passengers. “The magic I invoked to reach this place also prevents us from being seen. Once you are far enough away from me, the color will return. To an outsider it will seem as if you just appeared out of nowhere. I wish I could assist you further in this task, but I must travel to Karn’s Keep to prepare for the Hextor raid. May Tymora smile upon you!”


Once everyone of safely on the tower top, Silvarn will wink and then fly off. True to her word the color whooshes back in as soon as she is away. Silvarn herself can no longer be seen.

The spell Silvarn used must have shielded you from the elements as those without protection can feel the bitter cold of this place. Strong winds whip about the tower and anyone up here too long will suffer. No one is about and there seems to be only one direction to go.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The tiara functions like a lesser version of a Rod of Absorption. The wearer of the tiara can absorb magical spells cast directly at them. This energy can be used by the wearer to cast their own mage spells. The tiara holds a total of ten spell levels in it. The wearer could then use the tiara to cast a Fireball spell they have in memory. The spell would remain in the caster’s memory after being cast, but the tiara would have three less spell levels in it. You cannot cast a spell that is higher level than the number of spell levels left in the tiara. If you only have two spell levels left in the tiara, then you could only use that energy to cast 1 2nd level spell or 2 1st level spells.

Absorbed spell energy is used to power the tiara. The spells have to be directed at the caster to be absorbed. Spells with area affects cannot be absorbed. A Fireball cannot be absorbed, but Magic Missiles could. A Magic Missile cast at someone ten feet away from the caster could not be absorbed. Each absorbed spell gives that many more spell levels to the tiara. A first level spell ads 1 level, a third level spell 3.

The tiara can hold a maximum of 10 spell levels in it. The tiara cannot absorb spells if it is full or if the spell in question would put it over 10 spell levels.

Now what?

[Corley]

Sir Corley:

Sir Corley is pleased and proud when the rest of the Guardians agree to accompany him on this great mission. “I consider myself proud to be among such upstanding beings.”


Next morning all the preparations have been made and Silvarn requests that we join her up on the battlements. Sir Corley is a bit perplexed by all of this. He had assumed that some magical means of transport would be involved here. Instead, Lady Silvarn steps off the battlements!

“Lady Silvarn!”, Sir Corley yells as he rushes forward.

The next thing he knows, a majestic silver dragon is hovering there and it speaks with Lady Silvarn’s voice!

Hovering near the edge of the battlements, Silvarn will call out, “Climb on my back! I’ll fly you to the Ice Palace directly!”

Sir Corley is a bit stunned by this revelation and its not until Grondar’s words that he shakes himself out of it. Gingerly, Sir Corley will do as instructed and climb up on the dragon’s back. The whole incident feels surreal. The quick trip that follows just adds to that feeling.

Sir Corley dismounts and steps down to the tower rooftop. Lady Silvarn gives some parting words and then is gone. Everything returns to the normal and the biting, bitter cold is felt by all.

“We cannot linger here!”, Sir Corley calls out above the fierce winds. “Lady Sherra, Yusef, and Farian! Can any of you determine if we can safely go down the stairs? We have to expect to encounter defensive spells much like those we have in place at Fort Fletcher!”

Sir Corley will hold until we are sure the way is clear. Once that is accomplished he’ll lead the Guardians into the Ice Palace.

[Argent]

Argent:

Chareos laughs at irony, and quickly spells out Mordenkainen as if it is a more known word like bone. “It wasn’t so much as being offended, more so a bit of jealousy. You would not have known the way I felt about you or what I think of you because I never spoke my mind before now.”

Blushing slightly from her kiss, “You seem to be in a rush so perhaps I could talk to you at a later time? When it is more convenient for you.” he says, as he takes a lock of her hair and pushes it from her face toward her ear

“Yes, the formula for a new spell just came to me and I need to record it as soon as possible. Then I have the magicks in the spell book I kept from Opikus to study. Not to mention divining the function of this trinket. Later would be fine. I’ll no doubt be in my chambers the rest of the day. So much to do and study and no time to do it.”


Next morning after completing her memorization of spells, Argent turns her attention to the Tiara. The Identify spell reveals its enchantment. And what a useful item it is! The Priestess' reaction to the Magic Missile barrage now makes perfect sense. She thought she was just going to absorb them! Oh yes, this is going to be very, very useful!

When next seen, Argent is wearing the Tiara. Thanks to her Boots of Warmth, no extra clothing is needed beyond her regular dress.

“I went over some of the spells that I know, but do not make much use of, for anything that would ease our situation. I found such a spell. It’s called Leomund’s Tiny Hut and it creates a smaller, less fancier shelter than the houses we’ve conjured in the past. More importantly, the spell provides comfortable conditions inside it. It could be used as a safe harbor against the cold we’re most likely to face. A place to rest and recover.”


The Invoker is surprised by Silvarn’s secret, but does not say anything about it. She’ll confidently get on the dragon's back when required. The trip is brief, but we’ve moved a fair distance.

Even with her magical boots it seems cold here. The winds whip Argent’s hair about wildly.

“We cannot linger here!”, Sir Corley calls out above the fierce winds. “Lady Sherra, Yusef, and Farian! Can any of you determine if we can safely go down the stairs? We have to expect to encounter defensive spells much like those we have in place at Fort Fletcher!”

“I am in agreement with that! We could cast Dispel Magic to remove any potential wards that might be present.”

[Validar]

Po and Arocken will see the rest of the Guardians off, as they go to attack the Ice Maiden's fortress.

Po stands by silently and watches. Arocken offers them a hearty Elvish warcry as they step onto the Dragon's back, raising his bow in the air as he does so. In moments, the Guardians whisk out of sight.

[Ivy]

Ivy:

The day seemingly drags on. Ivy tries to keep herself busy but it is difficult to focus at times. Come the morning she’ll pray for new spells and prepare for the journey to come.

Seeing Ivy, Grondar approaches the priestess. "Berronar has granted me a blessing that I believe would be of most benefit if used by you. It greatly increases the recipient's physical might. The duration is not long, but could be of great use if cast just before a great battle, such as we are likely to encounter before this day is done. Is this of interest to you?"

“Yes, I would be agreeable to receiving this spell. A little extra muscle would not hurt.”

Silvarn’s secret is revealed and Ivy stands in awe of such a majestic creature. Words fail her and she silently climbs up on the dragons back. Reality rudely returns after Silvarn leaves us on the tower top as cold is felt once more.

“We can expect no respite from the Cold Maiden’s icy touch here,” Ivy says rhetorically. “We must take shelter from these winds!”

[Aria Stonehand]

Aria:

“Dragon!”, Aria hisses as the silvery dragon rises up to the battlements. Aria tightly grips her battleaxe in preparations for battle. Only after Grondar explains the situation does Aria settle down and not attack.

Tentatively, Aria crawls onto the dragons back. While this isn’t magic that she was expecting, this is far worse! Dwarves aren’t made to fly like birds! It’s not natural!

Thankfully the trip is short and we’re left on a tower top.

“It’s colder than a frost giant’s armpit here! Let’s vamoose to some place warmer!”

Aria will lead the way down the stairs if no one else does first.

[Rat]

Rat:

Rat is sleeping comfortable near the fire in the kitchen, feet propped up on a chair. A small stream of drool runs down his cheek.

That evening, Yusef makes time to seek out Rat. "Master Rat? I have noticed that you carry a sling with you at all times. I presume you are skilled with this weapon? It is one I have an interest in learning to use. Would you be so kind as to train me in its use?"

“Huh? What?” Rat utters as he slowly wakens. “What’s that? Skilled with the sling? Of course! It’s the halfling weapon after all! Why I can hit a fly at 400 yards with it!”

“Of course, friend Yusef! I’ll gladly show you the ins and outs of using the sling.”

[farian]

Farian

As The Guardians gather around Silvarn, Farian watches and waits as Silvarn begins to explain how she is going to bring us to the ice palace. To keep it secret? He looks at the others confusion as Silvarn Steps off the edge of the fort! He in not the only one to stand idly by and let someone kill themselves. He soon realizes the error of his ways as a large silver dragon flies up and stares them in the eyes.

Grabbing his war hammer he begins to get ready to defend himself from the big lizard,

Hovering near the edge of the battlements, Silvarn will call out, “Climb on my back! I’ll fly you to the Ice Palace directly!”

Grondar can reassure anyone who seems reluctant to do so, since he’s done this before.

Looking to Grondar to Silvarn Farian gawks in disbelief.. “We’ll I’ll be a bearded gnome! You been holding out on us!” as a wide smile crosses his lips. He then moves forward and takes his place among Silvarn’s back. “Do Hope I don’t get air sick!” he cries out as Silvarn invokes her magics.

“We cannot linger here!”, Sir Corley calls out above the fierce winds. “Lady Sherra, Yusef, and Farian! Can any of you determine if we can safely go down the stairs? We have to expect to encounter defensive spells much like those we have in place at Fort Fletcher!”

“Only one way to find out!!” he calls back as he moves forward to the stairs to examine them for any traps. When Aria moves forward to lead them Farian holds out his hand to bar her passage. “With all due respect, Wouldn’t want ya triggerin a trap!”
Farian will then move infront of Aria and down the stairs if safe, if trap is found try to disarm.

[Chareos]

Chareos

“Yes, the formula for a new spell just came to me and I need to record it as soon as possible. Then I have the magicks in the spell book I kept from Opikus to study. Not to mention divining the function of this trinket. Later would be fine. I’ll no doubt be in my chambers the rest of the day. So much to do and study and no time to do it.”

“Until later then.” he watched Argent leave when she was out of ear shot he silently kicked himself. Why didn’t he just say it. To late for that now he thought as he turned to go about getting himself ready for the trip to the Palace.

Chareos will gather his warmest of clothes and cloak and lay them out for the next morning. Then begin studying the spells he chosen. Upon completion of study he takes not of the hour of the day. With the hour growing late He doubts Argent will still be awake but who knows.

He got up and headed to her chambers and lightly knocked on the door. Several minutes pass but no answer was forth coming. “Ah well, Perhaps its for the best then.” he said to himself as he turned and head back to his post.

“I went over some of the spells that I know, but do not make much use of, for anything that would ease our situation. I found such a spell. It’s called Leomund’s Tiny Hut and it creates a smaller, less fancier shelter than the houses we’ve conjured in the past. More importantly, the spell provides comfortable conditions inside it. It could be used as a safe harbor against the cold we’re most likely to face. A place to rest and recover.”

Also having the spell but not truly familiar with it from lack of use Chareos asks, “How many people can be held within? If there is still time and it is needed I could study a second one.”

As Silvarn reveals her little secret Chareos doesn’t show much surprise but merely smiles at the beautiful being before them. He will climb onto Silvarn’s back with out a second thought and await what comes.

Upon reaching the Ice Palace Chareos feels the chill within moments even with his added clothes and the wind doesn’t help matters as it bites to the bone.

Quote:
“We cannot linger here!”, Sir Corley calls out above the fierce winds. “Lady Sherra, Yusef, and Farian! Can any of you determine if we can safely go down the stairs? We have to expect to encounter defensive spells much like those we have in place at Fort Fletcher!”

“I am in agreement with that! We could cast Dispel Magic to remove any potential wards that might be present.”

“It would be faster as well!! Least then within we would not have to contend with this wind!” he says as he tries vainly to keep the hair from his face. If there was no objections Chareos will Cast his Dispel Magic towards the opening of the stairs hopefully the area of the spell will cover a large part of the stairs that descend as well.( dunno how the stairs are set up. Curved or straight.)

When it comes time to descend the stairs Chareos will be toward the middle front of the column

[Yusef]

Yusef:

“There’s no need to be sorry,” Silvarn will softly say. “You had no choice when it came to your parentage. Thank you for this information. I will see that it is given to the proper people.”

“I should warn you that the King himself has decreed that the Deville’s be hunted down for their transgressions. It is an understandable reaction in light of what transpired. You may wish to keep your ties to them private for your own safety.”

"Thank you," Yusef replies. "However, I would rather not hide like a thief in the night. When this mission is over, would you be willing to take me to the king so that I might present myself for his judgement? If not, I will try to find a mage who can do so."

“Huh? What?” Rat utters as he slowly wakens. “What’s that? Skilled with the sling? Of course! It’s the halfling weapon after all! Why I can hit a fly at 400 yards with it!”

“Of course, friend Yusef! I’ll gladly show you the ins and outs of using the sling.”

"Thank you for your generosity, my friend. I know we have not much time now, but there should be plenty after we return from tomorrow's mission. That will give me time to locate a sling for my own use."

===

Like so many others, Yusef is startled when Silvarn steps off the ledge. He rushes forward to try to catch her, but is too late. Moments later, a silver dragon rises into view. Yusef is even more surprised by this, but not alarmed as he has only heard good things of the silver variety of dragon. Still he is puzzled by Silvarn's disappearance. Fortunately, Grondar explains the situation to them all, lessening his concern.

Hovering near the edge of the battlements, Silvarn will call out, “Climb on my back! I’ll fly you to the Ice Palace directly!”

Yusef does as instructed, making certain to sit near Sherra. This ride should give plenty of time for her to start on his education.

As it turns out, he is wrong. Silvarn invokes some magic and they travel at impossible speed through a monochrome world. If he is bothered by the flight or the speed, there is no sign of it. Almost before he knows it, they are approaching the ice castle. "Wow... That was amazing, Silvarn," Yusef says, sliding off the huge beast onto the parapet. She departs moments later, and color returns to the world as though by magic - which it is.

“We cannot linger here!”, Sir Corley calls out above the fierce winds. “Lady Sherra, Yusef, and Farian! Can any of you determine if we can safely go down the stairs? We have to expect to encounter defensive spells much like those we have in place at Fort Fletcher!”

"That shouldn't be too difficult," Yusef says, stepping toward the opening in the tower floor. However, the mages seem to feel that using a spell is a better means of dealing with the situation, so he pauses. Seems like a waste of a valuable spell, to him, but it's their choice he supposes.

“We can expect no respite from the Cold Maiden’s icy touch here,” Ivy says rhetorically. “We must take shelter from these winds!”

Yusef's ears perk up at this. "Lady Ivy, Celestian has blessed me with enchantments that will help with this. Would you care to receive his blessings? I have two such spells, so I can help another person as well." If she agrees, he will cast Endure Cold on her. He will do so for a second person as well, if it is requested.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“Yes, I would be agreeable to receiving this spell. A little extra muscle would not hurt.”

"It will be my pleasure, Lady Ivy. Hopefully we will be able to select the best time for its use."

Grondar nods as Silvarn speaks to them on the battlements. Her wink, however, causes him to pause for just a moment. Others, however, react in an alarmed fashion as she flings herself off the platform.

"Do not be alarmed!" Grondar calls out. "Lady Silvarn is okay," he says. Moments later she rises back into view and some of their companions grip their weapons for a fight. "And here she is again," Grondar says, laying a hand on Aria's weapon hand. "This is our friend Silvarn, in her true form. Do not be alarmed; we are in no danger from her."

He turns at looks up at the dragon. "I see you have a taste for the dramatic, my Lady." Grondar can't help but chuckle as they begin to climb on her back. He's done this before, and still it is not an entirely comfortable experience. He will hang on as best he can until they reach their destination. As before, Silvarn invokes her magic and they arrive at the castle of the Cold Lady in short order.

Once they have all disembarked, Silvarn makes ready to leave. "Thank you for bringing us, Lady Silvarn," Grondar says. "I pray the other mission will be successful, and we will look forward to seeing you again later."

“It’s colder than a frost giant’s armpit here! Let’s vamoose to some place warmer!”

Yusef's ears perk up at this. "Lady Ivy, Celestian has blessed me with enchantments that will help with this. Would you care to receive his blessings? I have two such spells, so I can help another person as well." If she agrees, he will cast Endure Cold on her. He will do so for a second person as well, if it is requested.

"I, too, have a pair of spells which will make the recipient much more comfortable in these conditions. May I assist you in this small way, Aria?" Grondar asks. "Anyone else? Farian?" He could probably use the spell himself, but will offer it to others first.

He will linger toward the back of the party when the time comes to descend the stairs. With his enchanted Boots, he can easily reach the front if the need arises.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Sherra reacts as everyone does as Silvarn just steps off the battlements. Soon the majecstic dragon is hovering before us and Grondar quickly explains the situation. Sherra just smiles, "Riding, swimming, flying. Grondar you are quite the pioneer."

Hovering near the edge of the battlements, Silvarn will call out, “Climb on my back! I’ll fly you to the Ice Palace directly!”

Yusef does as instructed, making certain to sit near Sherra. This ride should give plenty of time for her to start on his education.

Sherra will settle her hand into Yusef's. She isn't worried about falling since she has her boots, but isn't sure how Yusef will react to flying. "Have you ever done this before?" Sherra asks before they begin the flight. She's pretty sure Silvarn won't lose any of us, but she's glad she has the magical boots just in case.

We arrive without incident, and far quicker than Sherra would have guessed. The magical effect is sort of strange with all the color seemingly stripped from the world. Once Silvarn leaves, the color comes rushing back in, as does the cold. Not normally bothered, Sherra still feels the biting cold trying to get to her through her cloak and armor. She too will be glad to get out of this wind.

“We cannot linger here!”, Sir Corley calls out above the fierce winds. “Lady Sherra, Yusef, and Farian! Can any of you determine if we can safely go down the stairs? We have to expect to encounter defensive spells much like those we have in place at Fort Fletcher!”

Farian and Yusef move up, so Sherra lingers back a bit. There is no point in three of us crowding the stairwell. She will inspect the stairs if the other two don't seemed convinced of their success. Plus Chareos mentioned casting a spell. Sherra doesn't want to get in the way of that either.

Unless a different order is mentioned by Sir Corley once we descend, Sherra will linger near the back, making sure nothing tries sneaking up on them from behind.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

The trip on the back of the dragon, Silvarn, is magnificent. Lyonessa hums an uplifting ballad as they fly. It is over far too quickly and soon the biting cold whips through her cloak and layers of clothing, beginning to chill her immediately.

Yusef's ears perk up at this. "Lady Ivy, Celestian has blessed me with enchantments that will help with this. Would you care to receive his blessings? I have two such spells, so I can help another person as well." If she agrees, he will cast Endure Cold on her. He will do so for a second person as well, if it is requested.

"I, too, have a pair of spells which will make the recipient much more comfortable in these conditions. May I assist you in this small way, Aria?" Grondar asks. "Anyone else? Farian?" He could probably use the spell himself, but will offer it to others first.

"I too have taken several spells to help us endure this cold," Lyonessa offers. "I will definitely take one myself." If someone wishes to cast one upon her, she will accept. Lyonessa will also cast Endure Cold or Resist Cold as needed on anyone else.

Lyonessa figures she will probably be somewhere in the middle of the group, so will wait until the stairs are deemed safe. She won't mind waiting so much once the spell protects her.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

Sherra reacts as everyone does as Silvarn just steps off the battlements. Soon the majecstic dragon is hovering before us and Grondar quickly explains the situation. Sherra just smiles, "Riding, swimming, flying. Grondar you are quite the pioneer."

Sherra's comment causes a mirthful sound to issue from Grondar's chest. "That's me," he says. "I just hope they don't reject me for not being a proper dwarf. I don't think I'd like being a gnome..."

"I too have taken several spells to help us endure this cold," Lyonessa offers. "I will definitely take one myself." If someone wishes to cast one upon her, she will accept. Lyonessa will also cast Endure Cold or Resist Cold as needed on anyone else.

Grondar is somewhat confused as to why Lyonessa doesn't just cast one on herself, but doesn't make an issue of it. "Gladly, Lady Lyonessa. I can take care of that for you." He will cast Endure Cold on her, which should last pretty much all day.

[Yusef]

Yusef:

Sherra will settle her hand into Yusef's. She isn't worried about falling since she has her boots, but isn't sure how Yusef will react to flying. "Have you ever done this before?" Sherra asks before they begin the flight. She's pretty sure Silvarn won't lose any of us, but she's glad she has the magical boots just in case.

Feeling Sherra's hand touch his, Yusef looks down, surprised. His face flushes at the intimacy of the act. Sure, his father had arranged a woman for him once, but there was never anything particularly intimate about it. Just a lusty coupling so that his father could consider his son a man.

"Ah- I, uh... No. Well, not exactly," he says, distracted by Sherra's hand in his. "When I travelled with Sherwood, he changed into a griffon at one point and, uh, we each rode on his back then. It was just a short trip to, um, cross a chasm or something.

"How about you, Sherra?" Maybe if she does the talking, he'll feel less stressed...

As they get off the dragon, Yusef notes the cold and looks at Sherra. "Are you cold? I have a spell that would help keep you warm." Admittedly, he would rather keep her warm with his arms, but this would be a bad time for that. In addition to his usual sheepskin pants and sandals, he's wearing a blousy white shirt, a vest made of sheepskin turned inside out, and a raggedly-looking cloak in a dark brownish color.

When they enter the tower, Yusef will place himself near the front unless ordered otherwise by Sir Corley. He'll watch carefully for any traps or other obstacles as they go.
__________________________________________________________
Yusef has the Tongue-Tied disadvantage, don'tcha know...

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Fort Fletcher:

"Thank you," Yusef replies. "However, I would rather not hide like a thief in the night. When this mission is over, would you be willing to take me to the king so that I might present myself for his judgment? If not, I will try to find a mage who can do so."

“I will take you, if that is what you desire,” Silvarn answers. “You did not partake in the evils of your family. I doubt you’ll be judged for any crime of theirs. While the King is angry for the evil the Deville’s have done, he is also a just man.”


Next day, Silvarn reveals her true form as a Silver Dragon. The Guardians climb on her back and are flown off. Silvarn makes use of Draconian magic to accelerate her flight to fantastic speeds. The many miles pass in a blur and the whole trip takes a few scant seconds.

Silvarn sets her passengers down on the roof of the tallest tower of the Ice Palace. Once free of the Silver Dragon’s spell, the brutal cold of this place is felt. After some discussion Grondar casts Endure Cold on Lyonessa.

There is only one way to go. Stairs spiral down along the outer wall of the tower. There is some concern as to whether they are magically trapped, such as the enchantments in place at Fort Fletcher. Sir Corley calls for the scouts in the group to see if there are any traps.

Farian reaches the stairs first, but doesn’t notice any traps on them. Chareos casts Dispel Magic to remove any enchantments on this part of the stairs. Once that is done, Farian leads the way down. The bitter cold remains, but at least you’re somewhat shielded from the winds while inside.

The first thing that everyone will notice is that the Ice Palace is aptly named. It really is ice that you are walking on! Walking across the ice is not too difficult, provided you take your time and do not make any sudden movements. The ice itself is bluish-white and opaque.

As the group carefully goes down the spiraling steps, they come across open windows in the side of the tower. These windows are little more than openings in the wall and there is no way to seal them up. There does not seem to be any traps along the way.

About thirty feet down into the tower you come to a landing. There is an opening that leads into a hallway. Several other openings can be seen in this hallway. The stairs continue to spiral down into the Ice Palace. No one seems to be about.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Explore this level of the tower or continue down?

I have Grondar casting Endure Cold on Lyonessa. Others have been asked, but no one else has given permission to receive Endure Cold as of yet.

As noted in the post, the floors are solid ice. They can be slippery if you are not careful.

What’s the party order going to be?

Now what?

[Corley]

Sir Corley:

The stairs are quickly determined to be free to use and the group starts to descend. Most of the Guardians have already moved into a loose formation, so Sir Corley finishes the task.

Party Order:

Farian & Yusef
Aria & Sir Corley
Lord Chareos & Lady Argent
Lady Lyonessa & Lady Ivy
Grondar & Lady Sherra

If we have to go single file, then Farian goes first, followed by Yusef, then Aria, and so on. Each group is to be spaced out a bit, but always keep those in front of you in sight.


At least once inside we’re away from the biting winds. Alas, it seems that the designers of this fortress didn’t bother to seal it up from the outside! Uncoverable windows line the stairs and the winds are felt once more.

“I think all of us who are not otherwise protected from this cold should receive the magic. Otherwise it will be hard to function in this environment.”

In short order a landing is reached. After a moment’s thought, Sir Corley will whisper to those around him.

“Farian, continue to scout down the stairs, but don’t go past the next level. Lady Aria, keep Farian in your sight. Yusef will scout the hallway and I’ll back him up. Do a quick sweep of the area. I don’t want any enemies to attack our rear flank as we advance down this tower.”

[Argent]

Argent:

Also having the spell but not truly familiar with it from lack of use Chareos asks, “How many people can be held within? If there is still time and it is needed I could study a second one.”

“It can hold up to seven, along with the caster. The one draw back is that the caster must remain inside at all times. If they leave the area of effect, then the spell ends.


The stairs seem to be clear of danger and we head down. The palace really is made of ice and the footing is slippery. Argent ends up being more concerned about not falling than really paying attention to what is going on.

A landing is reached and Yusef is sent out to explore it. Sir Corley moves to guard Yusef’s back. Argent will in turn keep her eyes on Sir Corley as they move along.

[Ivy]

Ivy:

Yusef's ears perk up at this. "Lady Ivy, Celestian has blessed me with enchantments that will help with this. Would you care to receive his blessings? I have two such spells, so I can help another person as well." If she agrees, he will cast Endure Cold on her. He will do so for a second person as well, if it is requested.

“Thank you, Yusef,” Ivy replies. “I have four Endure Colds ready myself. We all prepared wisely it seems.”

Ivy will accept the Endure Cold from Yusef and then will cast it on Sir Corley when he suggests that everyone who needs it be protected from the cold.

“Does anyone else need protection?”

As we move along the slippery footings becomes a concern. However, Ivy has yet to notice it. Glancing down, Ivy suddenly realizes that she’s not actually walking on the ice! Instead her feet are about inch above it. She’s initially puzzled by this strange happening, but then remembers her enchanted ring.

“Footing won’t be a problem for me,” Ivy says. “My Ring of Water Walking must extend to all forms of water, including ice.”

Grasping her mace tightly, Ivy follows the others into the Ice Palace.

[farian]

Farian
Farian moves forward and begins to look for traps. Finding none he is about to turn and tell the others it is, to his findings, safe. But before he can, he notices Chareos finish his chanting and the spell soon thereafter goes off.

Readying his shield in front of him he cautiously moves down the stairs. The steps are slippery as ice; upon second glance they are ice! Wind rips through an open window, apparently whomever created this place didn’t mind the chilling cold.

Spotting no danger a landing below is soon reached.

“I think all of us who are not otherwise protected from this cold should receive the magic. Otherwise it will be hard to function in this environment.”

“Does anyone else need protection?”

“Aye, I’ll take one, will need my fingers intact if we come across traps.”

After getting blessed by the spell Farian will place his shield before him and ready his warhammer, slowly making his way down the stairs. As he does so he will look for traps, (Partial moves spot check until full movement is reached if that’s allowed.)

[Chareos]

Chareos

Chareos begins his casting of his spell, within a few moments his magic takes care of any magical traps that may have been there. Soon after Farian and the others before him begin to descend the stairs. The wind dies down for a few moments but then picks up as a window cut from the ice wall offers no protection from the chilling wind.

His teeth begin to chatter as the cold invades his body even through the extra clothing he is wearing.

At the landing Farian and Yusef spread out to check the hallway and stairs. Chareos turns to Lyonessa and says, “When you offered to cast the spell upon us I thought that we may not need it while within the ice palaces walls. I now know the error of my thinking. If your offer still stands could you instill Mystra’s blessing upon me?”

He will stand and watch Aria’s back 'til deemed clear.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“Aye, I’ll take one, will need my fingers intact if we come across traps.”

"As you wish, my friend," Grondar says, then casts the spell on his fellow dwarf, which uses up his Endure Cold enchantments.

“Does anyone else need protection?”

Grondar looks around. "Since we have so many available, I might as well accept one myself. If you would be so kind, Lady Ivy?" In truth, it will make him more comfortable, though he doesn't wish to look weak in front of Aria.

Chareos and Farian ensure that the stairs are safe, so they descend into the upper levels of the tower. Since the entire castle is made of ice, and dedicated to the Cold Mistress, he's not surprised that its as cold inside as out. Surely the open windows don't help any.

Though he's in the back of the party with his human friend Sherra, Grondar is quiet within the tower. In his experience, hearing is as important as seeing, so unnecessary sounds should be kept to a minimum. He carries his loaded crossbow in his hands as he advances carefully, mindful of the slippery surface.

On the next level, Corley sends Farian and Yusef to scout the stairs and the hall. While they are doing that, Grondar will watch the stairs behind them just in case more of the fliers they encountered at the fort appear.

[Yusef]

Yusef:

“I will take you, if that is what you desire,” Silvarn answers. “You did not partake in the evils of your family. I doubt you’ll be judged for any crime of theirs. While the King is angry for the evil the Deville’s have done, he is also a just man.”

"Thank you," Yusef replies softly. "I pray you are right."

“Thank you, Yusef,” Ivy replies. “I have four Endure Colds ready myself. We all prepared wisely it seems.”

"It would appear that you are right." Yusef casts his spell on the priestess. Then, since they seem to have enough copies of the spell between all the priests to cover everyone in the party, Yusef will cast his remaining copy on himself. He doesn't really need it, but it may provide some little extra protection in case of an attack. With the extra resistance in place, Yusef removes his sandals and goes barefoot for the extra grip on this slippery surface.

Soon, they move down into the frozen tower. Yusef is assigned to the front rank with Farian, and together they search for any traps or obstacles as they descend. Fortunately, the reach the landing on the next floor without incident.

“Farian, continue to scout down the stairs, but don’t go past the next level. Lady Aria, keep Farian in your sight. Yusef will scout the hallway and I’ll back him up. Do a quick sweep of the area. I don’t want any enemies to attack our rear flank as we advance down this tower.”

"Yes, Sir," Yusef replies and begins to move down the indicated hallway. He glides along surprisingly quickly and quietly, using a measured stride learned from the brotherhood. As he goes, he will look into each opening, exposing himself as little as possible while scanning the room or hall beyond, before moving on to the next. He carries a pair of throwing spikes in one hand, but the other remains empty. Periodically, he glances back to Sir Corley and nods to let him know that everything is okay.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Grondar is somewhat confused as to why Lyonessa doesn't just cast one on herself, but doesn't make an issue of it. "Gladly, Lady Lyonessa. I can take care of that for you." He will cast Endure Cold on her, which should last pretty much all day.

"Thank you kindly, Grondar," Lyonessa says with a soft smile. She begins to feel immediately better.

ooc: oops! i didn't know i could cast it on myself. thought it was another person only.


At the landing Farian and Yusef spread out to check the hallway and stairs. Chareos turns to Lyonessa and says, “When you offered to cast the spell upon us I thought that we may not need it while within the ice palaces walls. I now know the error of my thinking. If your offer still stands could you instill Mystra’s blessing upon me?”

"Of course Chareos, it would be my pleasure to do so," Lyonessa replies and casts her Endure Cold on him. "I too was going to wait, but it was just so cold I wouldn't have been able to walk down those slick steps."

Lyonessa will be careful about moving around on the ice. She really hopes they don't have to fight here. One slip at the wrong time could be worse than a weapon or spell aimed at them. Lyonessa waits patiently while the others scout, hoping to hear that it is clear.

[Aria Stonehand]

Aria:

"Only one way to find out!!" he calls back as he moves forward to the stairs to examine them for any traps. When Aria moves forward to lead them Farian holds out his hand to bar her passage. "With all due respect, Wouldn't want ya triggerin a trap!"

Farian will then move in front of Aria and down the stairs if safe, if trap is found try to disarm.

“Hmmm?” Aria utters in surprise. “Oh, right. Aye, that makes good sense lad! Go to it then!”

"I, too, have a pair of spells which will make the recipient much more comfortable in these conditions. May I assist you in this small way, Aria?" Grondar asks. "Anyone else? Farian?" He could probably use the spell himself, but will offer it to others first.

“Aye, I’ll be grudgingly take the magic, Grondar. Anything beats this infernal cold!”

"Farian, continue to scout down the stairs, but don't go past the next level. Lady Aria, keep Farian in your sight. Yusef will scout the hallway and I'll back him up. Do a quick sweep of the area. I don't want any enemies to attack our rear flank as we advance down this tower."

Aria falls into formation and makes her way gingerly down the stairs. All she can envision is slipping and go tumbling down the stairs all the way to the bottom! O’course, that would bring the enemy a’running, so it may not be a bad idea!

Aria simply nods when the Knight hands out the orders. She moves down a few steps to keep Farian in sight.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Ivy will accept the Endure Cold from Yusef and then will cast it on Sir Corley when he suggests that everyone who needs it be protected from the cold.

“Does anyone else need protection?”

"I will," Sherra says after a moment of consideration. "The cold isn't too bad for me at the moment, but the longer we're here, that might change. I don't want to take that risk."

The first thing that everyone will notice is that the Ice Palace is aptly named. It really is ice that you are walking on! Walking across the ice is not too difficult, provided you take your time and do not make any sudden movements. The ice itself is bluish-white and opaque.

Sherra has had some skill with walking across wet, slippery decks on a ship rolling across a turbulent sea, but she will still be cautious. She's in the back of the group with Grondar and she is glad for that. She remains quiet as he is, her focus on making sure nothing comes up behind them. Since a bow isn't overly practical on these stairs, Sherra will keep a pair of throwing knives handy as well as her short sword.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

"Thank you kindly, Grondar," Lyonessa says with a soft smile. She begins to feel immediately better.

"You are most welcome, Lyonessa," Grondar replies. "It should make this whole business more tolerable."

“Aye, I’ll be grudgingly take the magic, Grondar. Anything beats this infernal cold!”

Grondar colors a bit. "Alas, I am afraid I am all out. However, I know Lady Ivy is well-stocked with this particular blessing."

He turns to Ivy. "Would you be so kind as to share Azrella's blessings with our fair Aria?"

[GM Mad]

Post Closed