Episode 17: Winter Wolves and the Afflicted Rogue

As the glowing blue light eminating from the throne of the Frost Giant's remains pulsed for the final time and the decayed bones tumbled to the floor, the extremely dexterous Rogue Shayde snatched up the 2 shiny objects it had been holding and stashed them into her pack for safe keeping. She would share these with her companions later once they had got back from the caves. 

Our heroes proceeded to undertake a thorough investigation of the whole cave complex, searching the various chambers. They found a large stash of the towns mead along with a large supply of whale oil and others bits and pieces most likely stolen from other unfortunate merchants or locals. Among the more unusual finds was done Thrym (known for it's use in crafting potions of cold resistance) and 10 silvered sling stones. The 10 barrels of mead and the whale oil were to much to be transported now so the party would return to Goodmead and share the information of the find with Olivessa Untapoor and arrange to return with the townsfolk if necessary. 

Having concluded the search of the caves our heroes were met once more by the pair of tricksy Winter Wolves Koran and Kanan. This time they were not alone and had bought a pack of 4 normal wolves with them. Blocking the exit to the cave this pair of mischievous wolves gave our heroes no option but to engage.

Tor took the role of protector standing strong between the cave exit and the two young villages Silja and Finn. Aldrick took position at the back of the cave also from where he would be able to support with his ranged spells. Nemia and Halfdan were positioned on the left flank ready to move when the time came and so it was Shayde and Grom who moved first to intercept the pack of snarling wolves. 

Shayde moved fast managing to land and attack on the closest of the Winter Wolves before they knew what was happening before retreating back into the cavern to draw the wolves in. The winter wolves dashed forward unleashing their "Icy Breath" 

Seeing the danger Tor told the youngsters to stay out and she charged forward into the grey to try and stop the large wolves from getting any further into the chamber. 

Grom and Halfdan exchanged blows with a Winter Wolf. Axes and swords clashed against fangs and claws. Two of the smaller wolves snuck by trying to outflank our heroes but came face to face with the brave Teifling Cleric Nemeia' and her "Spiritual Weapon". 

Aldrick used lookout to deliver a "Shocking Grasp" to one of the Winter Wolves before unleashing a deadly stream of fire with his "Scorching Ray" spell managing a critical hit with one of the streams that sent the Winter Wolf crashing to the floor in a mound of burning flesh. 

Now it was Shayde's turn. Seeing the other Winter Wolf engaged with Tor she darted forward, planting a foot against the cavern wall and using it to add extra force she bought her short sword under the leg and plunged it deep into the beasts heart for the kill. The remains wolves were quickly dispatched before their pack tactics could inflict anymore pain on our heroes. 

With the battle concluded Tor and Shayde set about the work of harvesting parts from the slain creatures that could come in handy. The Pelts were collected along with 3 Winter Wolf Fangs and one pair of Winter Wolf lungs. Tor would experiment with these to see if she could work out how the wolves were able to produce that Icy Breath and maybe craft a potion. Wolf Pelts would come in handy as trade goods with the ten towners or the Goliath tribes in the mountains, but the Winter Wolf Pelts could perhaps be used to craft cloaks or boots of cold protection. 

Our heroes packed up their belongings and lead the two rescued youngsters back to town. Going straight to the Mead hall they were met by townsfolk who congratulated them on their endeavours and Finn went to find his parents who were overjoyed at his safe return. Sila lived in the neighbouring village of Dougan's Hole and it was agreed that she would stay the night in Goodmead and that our heroes would see her safely home the next day. 

Olivessa Untapoor met with the heroes and made arrangements for the mead and whale oil to be collected on the information provided about the caves location and the fact that all the threats had been dealt with. Aldrick advised Olivessa Untapoor that she would have their full support in her bid for the position of Town Speaker and that they would pay for a celebratory feast to be held in recognition of her part in the successful recovery of the towns goods and the fact that mead shipments could now be restarted ensuring the towns income was secure once again. 

Halfdan, Grom and Tor went to make ready the groups accomodation and to see to the sled dogs for the evening. Meanwhile Shayde had been feeling a sense of unease ever since departing from the caves. Nemeia had also noticed the subtle change in her disposition and Teifling to Teifling let her know of her concern. As requested Nemeia went to fetch Aldrick and so Shayde produced the rod and orb that she had picked up from the encounter with the giant hairy mammoth creature. Shayde held out the objects allowing Aldrick to place his hands on them and cast "Identify" learning that they are a "Pearl of Power" and a "Wand of the War Mage". Aldrick then quickly withdrew his hands as the ritual ended having learned that this power relics were also imbued with an ancient dark curse, the nature of which was not revealed as part of the "identity" casting. All the while Nemeia watched on. Having finished Aldrick whispered in Nemeia's ear that the objects were powerful magic items but that they were cursed and as such this curse was somehow afflicting Shayde and that they would need to keep a close eye on her. Shayde held the wand and pearl in her hands, staring mesmerized at them, allowing her fingers to trace the lines and grooves with an almost sensual touch before quickly stashing them back in her pack away from the eyes of others.

And so a feast was to be had and hopefully a good night's rest will follow. To be continued.................