New Frontiers #86

[GM Mad]

New Frontiers #86

The final battle in the Ice Palace has begun! The High Priestess has returned along with her half-human daughters. Together they will defend the Heart of Winter with their lives. Yusef and Lyonessa attempt to sway Anja, the priestess they spoke to earlier.

"We could have easily slain you, Anja, but we did not" Yusef replies as he runs toward the youngster. "And I would rather not have to hurt you now; don't make it necessary."

Lyonessa steps up, recalling the questioning, "We didn't really lie to you Anja. In fact if you search your memories, you'll find that nothing I said was false. We said we wanted to see more of this grand temple and couldn't understand why more followers weren't here. If we were indeed enemies, then why didn't we slay you?" She adds, playing on what Yusef just said.

While true Lyonessa didn't exactly deny being a follower she didn't come out and blatantly say she was, as she was being purposefully vague and careful not to anger her own goddess but lull Anja into enough sense of security to give them the information they sought.

Lyonessa will then cast her Hypnotism spell and say, "You don't want to hurt us just like we don't want to hurt you. Why don't you just lower your axe?"

“You’re trying to confuse me,” Anja starts to say as Lyonessa works her magic. “But you don’t want to hurt me and I don’t want to hurt you.”

Yusef arrives before the confused Priestess of Cold. She hesitantly hands him her Ice Axe!


“You weak minded fool!” Mina starts to chastise right before Grondar rushes in and slams Truthgiver into her side twice! The Ice Devil then howls in pain!

This attack is followed up by Argent who casts Agannazars Scorcher. A jet of flame leaps from the Invoker’s hand impacting on Mina’s back, burning her.


On the other side of the room, Farian rushes Nina but misses the priestess with his warhammer. Behind him, Chareos casts a spell and his body erupts in greenish flames. The mage does not seem to be harmed by this magical fire and he moves closer to Mina, as if offering himself as a target.


Aria and Ivy reach the Ice Devil at nearly the same time. The dwarven warrior buries her axe into Mina again and once again the devil screams in pain. Ivy swings, but again just misses striking her enemy.

Mina lashes out in rage at those attacking her. A claw swipes at Grondar, but misses, while a second claw slashes Aria. The beasts tail swings at Chareos, catching the mage full in the side. The coldness of the attack is blunted by Fire Shield, sparing Chareos’ its effects. What is unexpected is that the savage attack rebounds, transmitting its damage back into Mina! The damage is more than Mina can handle and she vanishes in a puff of sulfur, banished back to the Hells!

Both Anja and Nina cry out “MOTHER!” upon seeing the Ice Devil vanish. Nina is so traumatized that Sir Corley easily disarms her while Sherra keeps the half-human priestess covered with her arrows. Just like that, the battle is over.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Now that wasn’t so bad. Mina is gone for good this time but you have her daughters to deal with.

Hit Points:

Aria - 76 of 84
Corley - 45 of 65
Grondar - 42 of 60
Sherra - 30 of 41

Now what?

[Chareos]

Chareos

The words echo through his head then his voice as he receits the words to his spell. Within a few moments greenish flames begin to lick and dance about him engulfing him, but strangely enough the fire does not consume him. Tightening up his grip upon his quarterstaff, Chareos steps forward toward the Ice Devil, His eyes staring into the behemoth before him.

His nerves begin to rattle as fear sets itself in his veins and for a moment he wonders if he is doing the right thing. To late for such thoughts as he offers himself as an easy target, as the others rush in and bloody the Hell beast.

The Devil soon screams in pain and lashes out in return, two claw swipes then the tail came swinging from the rear, trying to deflect the blow but failing miserably, Chareos feels the blow rip into his ribs making him grit his teeth in pain and groaning mildly aloud. Within a moment, the Fire Shield kicks in sending its energy into the Ice Devil which vanishes in a cloud of sulfur.

With the ashy taste within his mouth, "May you rot in hell for eternity." Wiping the taste of sulfur from his face and mouth. Favoring his side slight Chareos leans a bit on his quarterstaff, the force of the impact still apparent, while looking upon the two inbreeds.

Chareos will make his way to the Alter and begin moving the weapons from the alter, Placing them in anything that he may that will contain them, so that the Half demon priestess dont try to arm themselves. Looking at Sir Corley he can't help but to ask, "Would it not be wise to take the jewel outside with us, and smash it upon our safety is secure? If this palace does not fall, I think we may know of someone who may enjoy it greatly for her part." meaning Silvarn.

Once the battle is surely over and the heathens are taken care of Chareos will see if Argent is okay.

[Yusef]

Yusef:

“You’re trying to confuse me,” Anja starts to say as Lyonessa works her magic. “But you don’t want to hurt me and I don’t want to hurt you.”

Yusef arrives before the confused Priestess of Cold. She hesitantly hands him her Ice Axe!

"I'm glad to hear that, Anja," Yusef replies, accepting the axe from the young half-breed. "Let's step away from the others so that you'll be safe." He gestures away from the altar and off somewhat towards the double doors.

It is only a few moments before the combined power of their group's most powerful members overwhelm the ice demon. It vanishes in a burst of smoke that smells of sulfur and brimstone, drawing a cry from both Anja and her sister. Yusef places a hand on her shoulder in an effort to both comfort her and dissuade her from rash action. "I'm sorry, Anja; it was necessary." She has her life before her now, but now is not the time to discuss that - though the time will come soon enough.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

Moving as quickly as the ice allows, Grondar reaches Mina before any of the others. Taking advantage of the great strength bestowed by his Gauntlets, he slams Truthgiver into the gelugon and catches her with the backswing as well. She screams at the painful touch of truth.

A jet of fire comes from somewhere behind him and washes over Mina. Moments later, Aria again carves into the creature with her axe as Ivy misses once more. The ice demon retaliates, but Grondar is able to step out of the way this time. However, Aria isn't so lucky; fortunately, she doesn't appear badly hurt. Then Mina makes the mistake of tail-swiping Chareos, who had just covered himself in greenish flames. Strangely, the flames spread from the contact point across Mina's body, finally banishing the devil back from whence she came.

A shout from the girls catches Grondar's attention and he shifts to check their status. Anja appears to have surrendered, with Yusef now holding her axe in a non-threatening manner. Meanwhile, Nina has been taken captive by Corley and Sherra. Truly, this battle has reached it's conclusion, which brings a tired smile to the dwarf's face.

Chareos will make his way to the Alter and begin moving the weapons from the alter, Placing them in anything that he may that will contain them, so that the Half demon priestess dont try to arm themselves. Looking at Sir Corley he can't help but to ask, "Would it not be wise to take the jewel outside with us, and smash it upon our safety is secure? If this palace does not fall, I think we may know of someone who may enjoy it greatly for her part." meaning Silvarn.

Grondar considers Chareos' words for a moment. "That is an interesting question you ask, my friend. That may work, and would certainly be safer for us. However, with an item of such power, it may be that the altar is necessary for us to be able to destroy it. Perhaps we should try outside, then return within if that doesn't work."

Grondar turns to Argent; as the premier mage in the group, she is the most likely to have useful knowledge. "Argent, what think you on this vexing question?"

[Corley]

Corley:

As Sir Corley moves closer to his intended target, he tries to keep track of how the main battle against the Ice Devil is progressing. If those in battle with this fiend begin to fall, it may be necessary to the young knight to offer himself a target so that those who can harm this beast can safely attack. However it quickly becomes apparent that those concerns are baseless. The beast falls quickly under the onslaught. Sir Corley cannot but help feel proud of his comrades and how they have performed on this mission.

The children call out in shock upon seeing their mother defeated so easily. Nina’s weapon is easily removed from her hands by the greatsword. Lady Sherra can be seen standing by with an arrow locked on to Nina should it be necessary. The battle has come to an end. This time victory came easy, as we knew what we were dealing with.

The devil’s daughters now need to be dealt with. Turn to eye both of them and speaking loud enough for all to hear, Sir Corley will say, “I give you my word as a Knight and a gentleman that you shall not be harmed without provocation. As you can see, my companions are powerful and not to be trifled with. Your fate is in your hands.”


Assuming that neither girl causes trouble, then we turn our attention to other matters.

Looking at Sir Corley he can't help but to ask, "Would it not be wise to take the jewel outside with us, and smash it upon our safety is secure? If this palace does not fall, I think we may know of someone who may enjoy it greatly for her part." meaning Silvarn.

Grondar considers Chareos' words for a moment. "That is an interesting question you ask, my friend. That may work, and would certainly be safer for us. However, with an item of such power, it may be that the altar is necessary for us to be able to destroy it. Perhaps we should try outside, then return within if that doesn't work."

“That does make sense,” Sir Corley agrees. “No need to put ourselves at risk if unnecessary. If such a thing can be done, then do so.”

Turning to the Lady Argent he adds, “Perhaps now would be a good time to go outside and set up the warmth spell you spoke of earlier. Those without protection will need a place to recover. Set up your enchantment far enough away from the Ice Palace should it collapse.”

Sir Corley will remain on guard as the other Guardians carry out their tasks.

"We have done much good this day. You should all be proud of your actions."

[Argent]

Argent:

Hovering over the battlefield, Argent casts Agannazars Scorcher for the first time. A jet of fire leaps from her hand and strikes the devil’s back. Unlike most attack spells of this nature, the flames continue to pour forth even after the devil has been banished! Argent continues to hover until the spell runs its course and has a good vantage point to see Chareos’ unique method of ice devil banishing.

From her vantage point, the Invoker can see that the half-breeds have been dealt with for the moment. Argent has no idea what they plan on doing with them, but she guesses that’s a concern for a later date. By the time she touches ground again Chareos is already collecting the magic items, bless his heart! Talk then turns to what to do about the fabulous Heart of Winter.

Looking at Sir Corley he can't help but to ask, "Would it not be wise to take the jewel outside with us, and smash it upon our safety is secure? If this palace does not fall, I think we may know of someone who may enjoy it greatly for her part." meaning Silvarn.

“That does make sense,” Sir Corley agrees. “No need to put ourselves at risk if unnecessary. If such a thing can be done, then do so.”

Grondar considers Chareos' words for a moment. "That is an interesting question you ask, my friend. That may work, and would certainly be safer for us. However, with an item of such power, it may be that the altar is necessary for us to be able to destroy it. Perhaps we should try outside, then return within if that doesn't work."

Grondar turns to Argent; as the premier mage in the group, she is the most likely to have useful knowledge. "Argent, what think you on this vexing question?"

“Yes, no need to bring this place down around us if it can be avoided,” Argent agrees. “Grondar does bring up an interesting point. If this Heart of Winter is truly an artifact and based what Jallarzi has taught me, this may be tougher then we first suspected. An artifact is essentially a very powerful magic item, but it also carries great risks with it. Many artifacts can only be destroyed in a single manner, so we may be unable to shatter the Heart with our weapons. Each artifact is unique, so its method of destruction would also be unique. Given its cold nature, then perhaps throwing it into molten lava might be one way to destroy it. This is, of course, assuming that we cannot move it or shatter it. Both should be tried once we’re safely away.”

“Or we could ask the girls, but I doubt they’d want to cooperate with this. Silvarn might have more information on the subject once she returns to take us away.”

Turning to the Lady Argent he adds, “Perhaps now would be a good time to go outside and set up the warmth spell you spoke of earlier. Those without protection will need a place to recover. Set up your enchantment far enough away from the Ice Palace should it collapse.”

“Yes, of course, Sir Corley. I shall do so right away. But once the spell is cast, I cannot leave it else it fades away. So those who need its protection will have to follow me out into the storm. The rest of you will have to come close to find it.”

Argent will fly out of the Ice Palace and look for a good spot to place her Tiny Hut. Ideally, straight out from the entrance, but in a safe location in case the structure collapses.

Once the battle is surely over and the heathens are taken care of Chareos will see if Argent is okay.

“I’m fine, thanks for asking. Now lets see what sort of treasure we’ve gained here!”

[Ivy]

Ivy:

Aria and Ivy reach the Ice Devil at nearly the same time. The dwarven warrior buries her axe into Mina again and once again the devil screams in pain. Ivy swings, but again just misses striking her enemy.

Again, Ivy fails to strike the enemy down. While she’s disheartened by her performance, the final results are more than satisfactory. The daughters appear to have been captured or surrendered and Sir Corley vows that they will not be harmed without just cause. Placing her Holy Weapon into her belt, Ivy will speak to the two.

“Your mother is not dead. She has only been banished from this plane, as she is not a native creature to it.”

Reaching down, Ivy grasps her Holy Symbol and holds it up for inspection. “Do you know what this is? It’s my Holy Symbol, for like you, I too am a Priestess. I serve Azrella, the Goddess of Life. My sect holds all life to be sacred and yet we oppose your patron for she only brings pain and suffering to the masses! That is why so few rush to follower her teaches. She is an evil that needs to be fought. I know you may not believe my words, but that is the truth of the matter. The one you serve us unworthy of your faith.”

Moving away from the half-human girls, Ivy will call those who had been wounded close to her. “I’ll heal all of use right away.”

She’ll then cast Cure Light Wounds through her mace and heal all those present.

Turning to the Lady Argent he adds, “Perhaps now would be a good time to go outside and set up the warmth spell you spoke of earlier. Those without protection will need a place to recover. Set up your enchantment far enough away from the Ice Palace should it collapse.”

“Yes, of course, Sir Corley. I shall do so right away. But once the spell is cast, I cannot leave it else it fades away. So those who need its protection will have to follow me out into the storm. The rest of you will have to come close to find it.”

“I’ll follow you right away, Argent. My cold protection has left me once more and I’ll need some place warm before I freeze to death!”

Ivy will follow the magic user out into the cold and to the shelter she creates.

[Aria Stonehand]

Aria:

Once again, Aria feels the satisfactory sense of impact as her axe rends ice devil flesh and bone. The beastie fights back briefly until it strikes Chareos and gets kicked out of the world by its own doing!

“Well, I guess mages sometimes do have their uses after all!”

Things quiet down after that as some deal with the girls we fought earlier while others grab the treasure and plot what to do with the giant diamond. There are talks about artifacts, evil deities and whatnot.

“It seems to me that if we’ve taken care of the defenders of this place, then there is no reason to do anything right now. Just set up your warmth spell here and we’ll wait for Silvarn to arrive before deciding what we should do. No need to rush into things if unnecessary. Sometimes you just need to have a little dwarven patience.”

At least this whole adventure seems to be over. Then we can get back to the mission at hand and the reclamation of Hammerfall.

[farian]

Farian

Within several tense moments the battle is over, the two girls cry out for their mother. Taking his warhammer in hand he rests it loosely in his hands.

The devil’s daughters now need to be dealt with. Turn to eye both of them and speaking loud enough for all to hear, Sir Corley will say, “I give you my word as a Knight and a gentleman that you shall not be harmed without provocation. As you can see, my companions are powerful and not to be trifled with. Your fate is in your hands.”

Oh I hope they resist.... he thinks softly to himself as he could not land a blow.

"It seems to me that if we’ve taken care of the defenders of this place, then there is no reason to do anything right now. Just set up your warmth spell here and we’ll wait for Silvarn to arrive before deciding what we should do. No need to rush into things if unnecessary. Sometimes you just need to have a little dwarven patience.”

"If there is time we could search the palace more throughly to see if it holds and other secrets or treasures."

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Both Anja and Nina cry out “MOTHER!” upon seeing the Ice Devil vanish. Nina is so traumatized that Sir Corley easily disarms her while Sherra keeps the half-human priestess covered with her arrows. Just like that, the battle is over.

Sherra's part in the conflict was minor, but she keeps Corley covered in case Nina tries something. Lyonessa's ruse worked and the others defeated the Ice Devil. Things went a lot better than Sherra had first thought. Praise Tymora, she thinks to herself.

There is some discussion about what to do, if anything, at the moment. Sherra is all for exploring this place from top to bottom since it looks like there is no immediate threat.

"It seems to me that if we’ve taken care of the defenders of this place, then there is no reason to do anything right now. Just set up your warmth spell here and we’ll wait for Silvarn to arrive before deciding what we should do. No need to rush into things if unnecessary. Sometimes you just need to have a little dwarven patience.”

"If there is time we could search the palace more throughly to see if it holds and other secrets or treasures."

Listening to Aria and Farian, Sherra agrees, "We should definitely finish exploring. Silvarn said she'd return when she could, but it might be a while, no?"

Depending on what is decided and how the half-breed girls respond, Sherra will either help explore the rest of the palace or keep a watch over the girls.

[Corley]

Sir Corley:

“It seems to me that if we’ve taken care of the defenders of this place, then there is no reason to do anything right now. Just set up your warmth spell here and we’ll wait for Silvarn to arrive before deciding what we should do. No need to rush into things if unnecessary. Sometimes you just need to have a little dwarven patience.”

“There is indeed wisdom in your words, Lady Stonehand. Our wait may take many hours and as you’ve pointed out, if no opposition remains then remaining here out of the storm is our best course of action.”

Sir Corley will direct Argent to cast her spell here near the double doors. We should leave the Heart of Winter alone for now, but the other items can be gathered up.

"If there is time we could search the palace more thoroughly to see if it holds and other secrets or treasures."

Listening to Aria and Farian, Sherra agrees, "We should definitely finish exploring. Silvarn said she'd return when she could, but it might be a while, no?"

“Very well, you may go forth to explore. No one goes alone, so travel in pairs. The rest of us will remain here on guard. Check back in regularly.”

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

“You’re trying to confuse me,” Anja starts to say as Lyonessa works her magic. “But you don’t want to hurt me and I don’t want to hurt you.”

Yusef arrives before the confused Priestess of Cold. She hesitantly hands him her Ice Axe!

Lyonessa lets out a sigh of relief as Anja hands over her axe to Yusef. She isn't sure what they can do for the girl, but this gives them options again.

“You weak minded fool!” Mina starts to chastise right before Grondar rushes in and slams Truthgiver into her side twice! The Ice Devil then howls in pain!

Lyonessa cringes upon hearing Mina call out, but Grondar and soon several others move against the ice devil and finally defeat her. She returns to her home plane in a puff of sulfur.

Listening to Sir Corley and Ivy explaining a few things to the girls, Lyonessa can only wonder how much the girls are really paying attention right now. To them we simply killed their mother, although hopefully they know enough to know she isn't truly dead. Lyonessa knows though that they will have to start from nothing and work up from there. No spells or vague words will do now.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

Sir Corley approves the idea to move things outside, then try to determine how best to deal with the Heart of Winter. Argent seems to agree, mentioning such thoughts as Silvarn and molten lava, as does Aria.

"Well, I recall her rescuing us from the crumbling remains of Ember's citadel, which was suspended above just such a lake of fire. If no more sure options appear, that might well do the trick - or at least put it beyond the reach of all but the most powerful for a very long time."

A few more moments discussion, and it is decided to move everyone outside, with Argent setting up some kind of shelter from the elements. Not wanting to let the Heart of Winter out of his sight, Grondar follows along, clomping over the ice in dwarven fashion.

As they make their way outside, Grondar moves up alongside Aria. "A fine battle that was - no? That devil truly met its match and more amongst this group. That axe of yours was certainly instrumental in its defeat." Nothing wrong with a little sincere flattery given to an attractive lass...

[Yusef]

Yusef:

Chareos suggests that they move outside and Sir Corley approves the plan. Corley also vows to keep the girls unharmed, bringing a smile to Yusef's face. Yusef escorts the devilspawn outside to their new camp in a polite and gracious manner. He'll make sure they're as comfortable as practical under the circumstances before turning to other matters.

With the encouragement of Farian and Sherra, Corley allows them to return within to further explore the ice castle. However, he requires that they proceed in pairs.

With a small smile, Yusef approaches Sherra. "May I accompany you? Who knows what the two of us may find within?"

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

All is quiet now in the Ice Palace. Mina has been banished back to the frigid hell of Caina, leaving her half-mortal daughters behind. Nina seems to be more in shock that Anja, but both are easily controlled for now. Yusef has handles Anja while Sir Corley, Farian and Sherra guard Nina.

“These are dark days,” Nina mutters almost incoherently. “Evil has triumphed and Auril’s gifts violently thrown back!”

"I'm sorry, Anja; it was necessary." She has her life before her now, but now is not the time to discuss that - though the time will come soon enough.

“But why?” Anja asks innocently. “All we wanted to do was help people and gift them Auril’s glorious gifts.”

After a pause, Anja says to Yusef, “You are not like the others. I feel as if we are similar. Why is this?”

The devil's daughters now need to be dealt with. Turn to eye both of them and speaking loud enough for all to hear, Sir Corley will say, "I give you my word as a Knight and a gentleman that you shall not be harmed without provocation. As you can see, my companions are powerful and not to be trifled with. Your fate is in your hands."

“Do what you will, villain,” Nina answers. “I do not have the strength to fight you any more. Violate us if you wish. It matters not any more. Our life has been destroyed.”

“Do not speak like that, sister!” Anja cries out. “As long as we are alive there is hope!”

"Your mother is not dead. She has only been banished from this plane, as she is not a native creature to it."

Reaching down, Ivy grasps her Holy Symbol and holds it up for inspection. "Do you know what this is? It's my Holy Symbol, for like you, I too am a Priestess. I serve Azrella, the Goddess of Life. My sect holds all life to be sacred and yet we oppose your patron for she only brings pain and suffering to the masses! That is why so few rush to follower her teaches. She is an evil that needs to be fought. I know you may not believe my words, but that is the truth of the matter. The one you serve us unworthy of your faith."

“The Goddess of Life…” Anja repeats in a wondering tone. Nina does not appear to be listening to the shivering Ivy’s words. “Why would anyone who holds life to be sacred oppose us? We give the wondrous gift of ice and snow. Does that not brighten up the people’s otherwise dark existence? Why do you fear us so? You’re even shaking in fear as you speak? Do you fear Auril’s gifts this much?”


It is decided that Argent set up her Tiny Hut so that those without cold protection can have shelter. At first it’s going to be placed outside, but since the Ice Palace has no more defenders, it is erected near the large double doors. The magical weapons placed around the altar are taken, but the Heart of Winter is to be untouched for now.

Farian and Sherra express interest in search the rest of the Ice Palace and Sir Corley agrees, but only under the condition that no one explores alone.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Who is going to go exploring? Who are you going with and where are you going to look?

From the information learned earlier from Anja, only the 2nd-4th floors of the main tower are inhabitant. The second floor was the girls quarters, the third floor Kalandor’s quarters and Mina’s was on the forth. The rest of the Ice Palace had no other living beings. But feel free to explore the other areas or ask the girls for what you might find there.

The Heart of Winter created the Ice Palace to this size. It’s far bigger then what they really needed. Auril’s does not plan on a small scale.

Everyone has been healed thanks to Ivy. Most likely you’ll have many hours to wait for Silvarn’s return.

Now what?

[Corley]

Sir Corley:

“Do what you will, villain,” Nina answers. “I do not have the strength to fight you any more. Violate us if you wish. It matters not any more. Our life has been destroyed.”

“Do not speak like that, sister!” Anja cries out. “As long as we are alive there is hope!”

“Indeed,” Sir Corley answers. “You sister does speak truly. As long as there is life, there is always hope. Hero. Villain. That all really depends upon your point of view. You might think us the villains, but to those many innocents who have been spared your foul goddesses tender mercies, we will be hailed as heroes.”

“Neither of you will be ‘violated’ as long as I am around. You will be accorded every courtesy within reason. We will not fight you unless you fight us. I do not condone the killing of a surrendered or helpless foe. It is these higher standards that set us apart from the very things we fight.”

Sir Corley will sheath his sword and stand guard near the double doors. As long as his own personal cold protection holds out, he’ll remain outside Lady Argent’s circle of warmth.

“We may be here for a while. Perhaps a fire can be built for warmth and cooking?”

[Argent]

Argent:

Sir Corley will direct Argent to cast her spell here near the double doors. We should leave the Heart of Winter alone for now, but the other items can be gathered up.

“Oh make up your mind!” Argent mutters under her breath.

Once ready, the Invoker will cast Leomund’s Tiny Hut near the double doors.

"Well, I recall her rescuing us from the crumbling remains of Ember's citadel, which was suspended above just such a lake of fire. If no more sure options appear, that might well do the trick - or at least put it beyond the reach of all but the most powerful for a very long time."

“That does sound promising,” Argent will agree. “Letting this thing sink to the bottom of a lake of lava will surely put it far out of the reach of those who seek it.”


Once the Hut is up and running, Argent has no choice to but to remain inside. Unless there other matters that demand her attention, she’ll study the 5th level spell book in an effort to learn more spells.

[Ivy]

Ivy:

“The Goddess of Life…” Anja repeats in a wondering tone. Nina does not appear to be listening to the shivering Ivy’s words. “Why would anyone who holds life to be sacred oppose us? We give the wondrous gift of ice and snow. Does that not brighten up the people’s otherwise dark existence? Why do you fear us so? You’re even shaking in fear as you speak? Do you fear Auril’s gifts this much?”

“I do not shake in fear,” Ivy corrects. “What you’re goddess fails to comprehend is that people are warm blooded beings. We need warmth to survive. You goddess takes that away from us. She drains away the very thing that we need to survive! How can I not in good conscience oppose such a thing? You cannot understand this, as you do not feel cold.”

“Yes, snow and ice are pretty, but how can you expect people to survive in a perpetual winter? How can they group crops when the fields are covered in ice and snow? How will they feed their livestock? How will they feed themselves? Those who oppose you do so because to do otherwise means death. We cannot survive under long term exposure to those things you call gifts. To us, they are nothing be a curse and a death sentence. That is why no one flocks to join your faith. That is why you’re fought at every turn. The only gift the Cold One brings is a frosty death.”


Ivy will enter Argent’s magical creation to regain her warmth. She’ll venture outside the when able and will help cook once a fire is going.

[Aria Stonehand]

Aria:

“There is indeed wisdom in your words, Lady Stonehand. Our wait may take many hours and as you’ve pointed out, if no opposition remains then remaining here out of the storm is our best course of action.”

“There is?” Aria repeats. “Of course there is! Well then, let’s carry on shall we?”

As they make their way outside, Grondar moves up alongside Aria. "A fine battle that was - no? That devil truly met its match and more amongst this group. That axe of yours was certainly instrumental in its defeat." Nothing wrong with a little sincere flattery given to an attractive lass...

“It was all right,” Aria will agree. “Not quite a grand struggle where both combatants were close to death, but it was my first conflict with a critter from the lower planes. A fine start!”


Aria will go inside Argent’s magical hot spot once it’s ready. She’s had enough of this wretched cold!

[Chareos]

Chareos

As the day continues on Chareos looks about as the conversation between the Half demons and Ivy continue on.

“Yes, snow and ice are pretty, but how can you expect people to survive in a perpetual winter? How can they group crops when the fields are covered in ice and snow? How will they feed their livestock? How will they feed themselves? Those who oppose you do so because to do otherwise means death. We cannot survive under long term exposure to those things you call gifts. To us, they are nothing be a curse and a death sentence. That is why no one flocks to join your faith. That is why you’re fought at every turn. The only gift the Cold One brings is a frosty death.”

For a moment Chareos holds his tongue endearing if what he has to say will help or hinder the situation. Shaking his head slightly Chareos looks at the twins and says in an easy tone. “For a moment I want you to hold your breath for as long as you can, And tell me how you feel.” Pausing for them to do it or if they do it, “Most creatures need air to breath or water to breath, if this is taken away most if not all will surely die. This is what the cold does to most creatures, It chills to the bone, robbing you of any heat. I have heard tales of people dying from it, their bodies turning blue and rigid, from the embrace of death. These are the gifts in which you wish to spread to the world? This is the joy you spread?” he asks curiously. “There are so many joys you can bring to the people: Song, Poems, art ,music, learning, warmth… These are some gifts people care for and hold dear to their heart.”

As Ivy is walking away towards the hut, Ivy looks to her and asks, “Would you happen to be carrying any holy water? He asks softly so that none of the others can hear as he glances toward the Alter of the Cold one.

Chareos will remain outside the Hut until the spell upon him wears out. He will begin reading his spell book and memorizing spells if applicable.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Lyonessa listens to Chareos and Ivy explaining things to the girls. Even though she guesses they are still young, all of their experience has been what their mother has told and taught them.

Lyonessa continues with Anja, knowing that even though the magic has worn off, she still seems the most receptive. "My friends here are right, the snow is very beautiful but most of us can not live like this forever. Even if we hunted successfully, without crops and eventual warmth, we would die. Everything has its place in life, in moderation. I think we could all learn to enjoy each other's gifts and teachings."

Lyonessa isn't sure a diety is about to change alignment just because a few adventurers see hope in one young priestess, but Lyonessa isn't about to give up. "Surely you could admit Anja that there are other wonders in this world you haven't seen yet," she suggests.

Later on, Lyonessa will sing a ballad to help everyone pass the long hours. She will choose one about the gods and creation, hoping to show Anja, and even maybe Nina, through her voice and words that there are many paths and choices offered to all of us.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

With a small smile, Yusef approaches Sherra. "May I accompany you? Who knows what the two of us may find within?"

Sherra seems to think over the request for a moment, seemingly pondering something more complex than the question would appear. Then she smiles, letting Yusef know she was just playing, "Of course you may accompany me. I'm hoping we'll find something magical in a dark and secluded corner."

Who is going to go exploring? Who are you going with and where are you going to look?

From the information learned earlier from Anja, only the 2nd-4th floors of the main tower are inhabitant. The second floor was the girls quarters, the third floor Kalandor’s quarters and Mina’s was on the forth. The rest of the Ice Palace had no other living beings. But feel free to explore the other areas or ask the girls for what you might find there.

Sherra doubts the girls are going to give them anything useful. "Maybe we should start with Mina's quarters," she suggests to Yusef. "I'm not sure what we'll find in an ice devil's quarters, but it will be interesting to see nonetheless."

If that's where the pair starts, then Sherra will be very cautious. The room could be filled with all sorts of traps, magical or otherwise. She will take the opportunity to learn some new words as they explore and investigate. Sherra will also teach Yusef the way to say those same words in her native language.

[farian]

Farian


With the chore of watching the children apparent Farian, grumbles and stays behind, He will sit with his back against the alter, warhammer across his lap. Hearing the call for a fire to be built Farian shakes his head, wondering if there is anything to burn in this god-foresaken cold place.

“I’ll see what I can find.” He says easily as he gathers up his warhammer and looks for something that’s burnable.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The Guardians have taken the Ice Palace. The remaining half-human priestesses are kept under constant guard.

"Indeed," Sir Corley answers. "You sister does speak truly. As long as there is life, there is always hope. Hero. Villain. That all really depends upon your point of view. You might think us the villains, but to those many innocents who have been spared your foul goddesses tender mercies, we will be hailed as heroes."

"Neither of you will be 'violated' as long as I am around. You will be accorded every courtesy within reason. We will not fight you unless you fight us. I do not condone the killing of a surrendered or helpless foe. It is these higher standards that set us apart from the very things we fight."

Anja will seem surprised at the treatment they are receiving, but Nina remains skeptical, but quiet.

"That is a very noble promise," Anja notes.

While both of the sisters are human looking, both are also clearly not human. Both have light bluish skin and dark blue hair. Nina’s skin is darker in color and appears almost leathery. She also has a pair of leathery wings protruding from her back. Anja’s only other non-human feature is a small pair of horns on her forehead. They both wear ice blue robes, a silver circlet, and a wide silver belt. The girls Holy Symbol’s dangle from their necks on a small chain; a white snowflake on a gray diamond with a white border.

"I do not shake in fear," Ivy corrects. "What you're goddess fails to comprehend is that people are warm blooded beings. We need warmth to survive. You goddess takes that away from us. She drains away the very thing that we need to survive! How can I not in good conscience oppose such a thing? You cannot understand this, as you do not feel cold."

"Yes, snow and ice are pretty, but how can you expect people to survive in a perpetual winter? How can they group crops when the fields are covered in ice and snow? How will they feed their livestock? How will they feed themselves? Those who oppose you do so because to do otherwise means death. We cannot survive under long term exposure to those things you call gifts. To us, they are nothing be a curse and a death sentence. That is why no one flocks to join your faith. That is why you're fought at every turn. The only gift the Cold One brings is a frosty death."

"But that can't be right..." Anja utters in shock. "Auril could never do such a thing. Its too cruel to comprehend."

For a moment Chareos holds his tongue endearing if what he has to say will help or hinder the situation. Shaking his head slightly Chareos looks at the twins and says in an easy tone. "For a moment I want you to hold your breath for as long as you can, and tell me how you feel." Pausing for them to do it or if they do it, "Most creatures need air to breath or water to breath, if this is taken away most if not all will surely die. This is what the cold does to most creatures; it chills to the bone, robbing you of any heat. I have heard tales of people dying from it, their bodies turning blue and rigid, from the embrace of death. These are the gifts in which you wish to spread to the world? This is the joy you spread?" he asks curiously. "There are so many joys you can bring to the people: Song, Poems, art, music, learning, warmth... These are some gifts people care for and hold dear to their heart."

Nina remains silent and defiant, but Anja looks more and more confused and shocked by what she’s hearing.

Lyonessa continues with Anja, knowing that even though the magic has worn off, she still seems the most receptive. "My friends here are right, the snow is very beautiful but most of us can not live like this forever. Even if we hunted successfully, without crops and eventual warmth, we would die. Everything has its place in life, in moderation. I think we could all learn to enjoy each other's gifts and teachings."

“Your words do make some sense,” Anja does admit. “Are you a priestess too? Whom do you serve?”

Lyonessa isn't sure a deity is about to change alignment just because a few adventurers see hope in one young priestess, but Lyonessa isn't about to give up. "Surely you could admit Anja that there are other wonders in this world you haven't seen yet," she suggests.

“What kind of wonders?” Anja asks innocently of Lyonessa.

Much to everyone’s surprise, Anja then cries out in pain! A flash of energy is noted from her Holy Symbol right before Anja rips it off and tosses it away. The place where the symbol touched her skin is now ghastly white, as if the skin had been flash frozen! Likewise, Anja’s hand is damaged where she touched the symbol.

“What is happening?” Anja wonders in confusion as her body starts shivering. “What is this awful feeling?”

“You have forsaken Auril,” Nina answers arrogantly. “Now she has forsaken you and taken back her wonderful gifts. Mother was right. You are weak.”

[GM Mad]

Elsewhere in the Ice Palace, Sherra and Yusef are exploring. They decide to start with the former Ice Devil’s chambers that are on the fourth level of the main tower. The pair carefully navigates their way back up the tower, taking their time to avoid slipping on the ice.

The chambers are reached. The first door opens up in to a large open area. A gruesome sight awaits you. Here in this chamber nearly a dozen orcs stand separately, each of them mostly embedded into pillars of ice. Parts of their bodies are free from the ice, but you can see numerous claw and bite marks on the expose flesh. From the blood and the expression on their faces, these orcs were alive when they were imprisoned and were tortured to death. Blood and numerous body parts litter the floor.

The main feature in the next chamber is a large reading stand with a huge closed book resting upon it. The book gives the appearance that it is covered in ice, complete with icicles hanging from it. Both Yusef and Sherra can’t help but feel malevolence wafting off the book. There is writing on the front of the book, but neither can understand it. The book is not touched.

Finally, in what passes for Mina’s bedchamber, Sherra locates a chest. After checking for traps, she picks the lock to reveal a chest full of gems!


GM Notes:

No fire building material can be found in the Ice Palace. It’s all ice. The outside isn’t much better as it’s a blizzard and the terrain is snow covered.

The gems in the chest appear to be mostly Star Rose Quartz, Jade, and Obsidian. There’s a few Topaz’s, pieces of Coral and Bloodstones. Best guess would have it at least 100 gems have varying value in the chest.

Now what?

[Ivy]

Ivy:

"But that can't be right..." Anja utters in shock. "Auril could never do such a thing. Its too cruel to comprehend."

Sensing that she is making inroads with the young half-breed, Ivy continues. “But it is true. That is why you have so few followers. That is why you are opposed at every turn. Your patron’s gift brings us only death in the long run, not joy or life.”

Much to everyone’s surprise, Anja then cries out in pain! A flash of energy is noted from her Holy Symbol right before Anja rips it off and tosses it away. The place where the symbol touched her skin is now ghastly white, as if the skin had been flash frozen! Likewise, Anja’s hand is damaged where she touched the symbol.

“What is happening?” Anja wonders in confusion as her body starts shivering. “What is this awful feeling?”

“You have forsaken Auril,” Nina answers arrogantly. “Now she has forsaken you and taken back her wonderful gifts. Mother was right. You are weak.”

Ivy is surprised as anyone to see that Auril has cast out Anja from her faith. Ivy’s only heard stories about such a thing being possible for failure to follow ones teachings, but has never witnessed such a thing before. Ivy steps up to Anja’s side.

“Your former patron knows that she no longer has a hold over you,” Ivy says, correcting Nina’s statement. “She knows that you have seen the truth and will not follow her evil ways. This is not weakness, but rather personal strength. As for what you are feeling, that is what we all feel here. That is what it is like to be cold, to have the warmth of your body drained away. Come, you’ve lived in cold for far too long. Now feel what warmth is like.”

Ivy will escort Anja over to Argent’s spell and take her inside. Once inside, Ivy will cast another Cure Light Wounds to heal the damage Auril did to Anja.

As Ivy is walking away towards the hut, Ivy looks to her and asks, “Would you happen to be carrying any holy water? He asks softly so that none of the others can hear as he glances toward the Alter of the Cold one.

“Unfortunately no,” Ivy answers. “We may have to resort to more physical methods to bring it down.”

[Sherra]

Sherra:

The chambers are reached. The first door opens up in to a large open area. A gruesome sight awaits you. Here in this chamber nearly a dozen orcs stand separately, each of them mostly embedded into pillars of ice. Parts of their bodies are free from the ice, but you can see numerous claw and bite marks on the expose flesh. From the blood and the expression on their faces, these orcs were alive when they were imprisoned and were tortured to death. Blood and numerous body parts litter the floor.

"Oh, that's just... horrid," Sherra mutters, trying not to vomit. She has seen some gruesome things before, but nothing that can compare to the scene in front of her. She will move past the area as quickly as caution allows.

The main feature in the next chamber is a large reading stand with a huge closed book resting upon it. The book gives the appearance that it is covered in ice, complete with icicles hanging from it. Both Yusef and Sherra can’t help but feel malevolence wafting off the book. There is writing on the front of the book, but neither can understand it. The book is not touched.

Sherra stares in amazement at the book until the feeling of malevolence hits her. Turning to Yusef, she asks, "Can you feel that? I don't think it would be wise to attempt its pages."

Finally, in what passes for Mina’s bedchamber, Sherra locates a chest. After checking for traps, she picks the lock to reveal a chest full of gems!

The gems in the chest appear to be mostly Star Rose Quartz, Jade, and Obsidian. There’s a few Topaz’s, pieces of Coral and Bloodstones. Best guess would have it at least 100 gems have varying value in the chest.

"Oh now here we go!" Sherra says as her face lights up upon lifting the lid of the chest. She'll smile over at Yusef and add, "This sort of thing we should come across more often."

Sherra will make sure the inside of the chest isn't trapped or coated with poison. If the chest is too heavy to carry, then she will suggest filling sacks and pouches with the gems to distribute the weight.

[Yusef]

Yusef:

“But why?” Anja asks innocently. “All we wanted to do was help people and gift them Auril’s glorious gifts.”

Yusef fumbles about for a moment trying to put together a good answer, but fortunately others step in to do a better job than he could.

After a pause, Anja says to Yusef, “You are not like the others. I feel as if we are similar. Why is this?”

"I think I know what you mean," Yusef replies with a nod. "Like you, I have some of the blood of the lower planes flowing though my veins. One of my parents came from a long line of people who had intermingled with demons and devils for many generations. Thus, some of that was passed on to me. I need to go search the castle for a little while, but we should talk more later."

Sherra seems to think over the request for a moment, seemingly pondering something more complex than the question would appear. Then she smiles, letting Yusef know she was just playing, "Of course you may accompany me. I'm hoping we'll find something magical in a dark and secluded corner."

Yusef's jaw drops open and he splutters for a second, then just nods. "Uh... yeah. Me too."

Sherra doubts the girls are going to give them anything useful. "Maybe we should start with Mina's quarters," she suggests to Yusef. "I'm not sure what we'll find in an ice devil's quarters, but it will be interesting to see nonetheless."

"Seems as good a place as any. Lead on," he says, gesturing politely for her to lead the way. He will take her cue and move carefully, searching for dangers as he goes.

The first chamber in Mina's quarters greets them with a most gruesome sight. Sherra moves on past quickly, but Yusef steels himself for a closer look. He will examine them to make sure that they have passed on. If any yet live, he will release their bonds to this earth.

Sherra stares in amazement at the book until the feeling of malevolence hits her. Turning to Yusef, she asks, "Can you feel that? I don't think it would be wise to attempt its pages."

Catching up with the raven-haired beauty, she indicates a large tome on a stand. Waves of what he can only describe as evil waft from the thing and assault his sense. "Indeed I can. I just wish I had some means of destroying it. Perhaps one of the others can help with this."

Moments later, Sherra opens up a chest containing a horde of semi-precious gems. He can see the light that springs up in her eyes and he smiles at her. "I'm glad you're happy, Sherra." Once she has thoroughly checked the chest, he will attempt to carry it. Hopefully, it won't be too heavy.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“That does sound promising,” Argent will agree. “Letting this thing sink to the bottom of a lake of lava will surely put it far out of the reach of those who seek it.

"Of course, I'd rather destroy it utterly, so that it can never be used again, but if we cannot find a way to do that, then this may be our best option."

“It was all right,” Aria will agree. “Not quite a grand struggle where both combatants were close to death, but it was my first conflict with a critter from the lower planes. A fine start!”

"Indeed. And I'm sure you'll have many more opportunities to engage powerful opponents in the future."

Grondar catches the tail end of the conversation with the demon-girl and her rejection by her patron. Sympathy fills his eyes as he regards the girl. "I know that this rejection is painful to you, and I know that you will come through it a stronger person in the long run.

"Like Ivy and Lyonessa here, I too am a priest. I serve a dwarven goddess named Berronar Truesilver who represents protection and family within the dwarven community. If I can do anything to help you through this time, please let me know."

[Chareos]

Chareos

“Unfortunately no,” Ivy answers. “We may have to resort to more physical methods to bring it down.”

"So Be it." he says with a nod, though a sudden thought comes to him. "Would any harm come to us if we remove the alter now. Seeing how the diamond is floating above it perhaps it is drawing some power rom the alter itself."

If Ivy is certain of no harm will befall them, Charoes will take his broadsword and proceed to smash the alter into ice cubes.

[farian]

Farian
Seeing no way of starting a fire he will go through his pack and see if he has anything that will be able to start and mantain a fire and light one. If none is apparent he will continue to guard the demon child.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

“Your words do make some sense,” Anja does admit. “Are you a priestess too? Whom do you serve?”

"I am a priestess and a bard," Lyonessa replies. "I follow the teachings of Mystra and act as a songstress, teacher and healer."

“What kind of wonders?” Anja asks innocently of Lyonessa.

Much to everyone’s surprise, Anja then cries out in pain! A flash of energy is noted from her Holy Symbol right before Anja rips it off and tosses it away. The place where the symbol touched her skin is now ghastly white, as if the skin had been flash frozen! Likewise, Anja’s hand is damaged where she touched the symbol.

Before Lyonessa can respond, Anja cries out in terrible pain. Although Lyonessa has never seen anything like this, there are tragic ballads that speak of those who fall from the grace of their chosen god or goddess. Within a moment, Nina confirms Lyonessa's suspicion.

“What is happening?” Anja wonders in confusion as her body starts shivering. “What is this awful feeling?”

“You have forsaken Auril,” Nina answers arrogantly. “Now she has forsaken you and taken back her wonderful gifts. Mother was right. You are weak.”

"She hadn't forsaken anyone, let alone her goddess," Lyonessa retorts. "Instead she was merely open to learning and interested in more than the narrow tomb of existence that the goddess of cold allowed her. It seemed rather that someone was frightened at Anja learning the truth."

Helping steady Anja, Lyonessa tries to comfort the scared and confused girl. "You are now free to make your own path," Lyonessa explains. "You can take any route you wish to and learn about anything you want."

Lyonessa smiles at Anja, "You are very strong no matter what your sister says. Do not let fear consume your soul as it does your sister. There is so much I, we, can show you if you wish."

“Your former patron knows that she no longer has a hold over you,” Ivy says, correcting Nina’s statement. “She knows that you have seen the truth and will not follow her evil ways. This is not weakness, but rather personal strength. As for what you are feeling, that is what we all feel here. That is what it is like to be cold, to have the warmth of your body drained away. Come, you’ve lived in cold for far too long. Now feel what warmth is like.”

Ivy will escort Anja over to Argent’s spell and take her inside. Once inside, Ivy will cast another Cure Light Wounds to heal the damage Auril did to Anja.

Lyonessa will touch Ivy's arm before she leads Anja away. She will smile and softly say, "Thank you."

[GM Mad]

Post Closed