6TH ADVENTURE – HALF HOT/HALF COLD PT. 1
“I’m so happy that the Bard’s Tavern is back!”, Donovan said, sipping his beer. “Even the beer tastes better now!”.
“That’s the power of the Wish spell”, Korvac said. “It’s really impressive how powerful Kharius has become”.
“Come on, we all got stronger from the hardships we’ve been through”, Kharius said, humbly.
“By the way, someone here went through literal Hell”, Bosco said, looking at Megalomagna. "I can’t help being curious at what that arch-devil said about Megalomaniac”.
“That was really surprising”, Donovan said. “I never imagined Meggie had been to Hell. How old are you after all?”.
“I don’t think I sense time the same way people do”, Megalomagna answered. “But yes, I’m old”.
“Tell us more about that devil”, Bosco insisted. “How did you end up in Hell?”.
“I haven’t always been wielded by lawful good nitwits like Donovan”, Megalomagna said. “Some very evil people carried me around as well”.
“Right”, Donovan retorted, not so happy about the compliment.
“At that time I had a slave *ahem* partner called The Baron of Blood. Yeah, that’s a really stupid and ridiculous name, but evil people don’t use their real names”.
“Was he a warrior too?”, Korvac asked.
“Nope. He was an evil priest. I don’t know why, but he could wield me with no difficulties, despite not having previous sword training”, Megalomagna replied.
“You are nearly weightless”, Donovan said. “Even Bosco could wield you, I guess”.
“Hey! What do you mean by ‘even Bosco’?”, the hobbit interjected.
“Calm down, buddy”, Donovan said. “It’s just that Megalomagna is a longsword. But since it’s magical just like your Sunblade, I guess you could use it with your typical agility. I doubt you could employ just any bastard sword with the skill you slash your Sunblade around, am I wrong?”.
“You’re not…”, Bosco answered, not very convinced.
“You may be shorty, but magical swords can sometimes be light and easy to use”, Megalomagna said, bluntly. “That doesn’t mean I would allow you to wield me, though. Can you say ‘Tarrasque, you’re dead meat’, in a way that even the Tarrasque would tremble with fear? Cause that’s a prerequisite”.
“I can see you’re even more of a chatterbox than usual”, Donovan told Megalomagna.
“I’m still impressed by the sword’s handling of Leomund’s Lamentable Belaborment’s spell”, Kharius said. ”It managed to affect all of Boccob’s followers even inside his own tower!”.
“I think we should give it a new name”, Donovan said. “What about ‘Megalomagna’s Eternal Bickering?’”.
“Or maybe ‘Megalomagna’s Endless Blabbering?’”, Korvac added.
“I would go with ‘Megalomagna's Pointless Arguing’, since the conversation wasn’t going anywhere”, Bosco said.
“I think ‘Megalomagna's Unbearable Quibbling’ would be a good name, especially considering how badly we wanted to leave the place”, Kharius added.
“You’re making me want to go back to Hell”, Megalomagna said.
“Seriously now, I wanna know more about the evil priest”, Bosco insisted.
“Aren’t you an inconvenient little fella?”, Megalomagna complained. “I told you, he was an evil priest. I believe he is long dead by now, but you know how evil people work. They probably reanimated him as a juju zombie or whatever”.
“Or a lich”, Kharius interjected, creating an ominous atmosphere over the Party.
“Yep, could be”, Megalomagna responded. “But it could be worse, you know? He could have been tortured by baatezu for eternity”.
“Have you actually seen any baatezu?”, Korvac asked.
“Many of their strongest are Mephistopheles’s servants”, the sword said. “Which is why you guys were lucky he wasn’t serious about taking you as slaves”.
“Is he that powerful?”, Donovan asked, curious.
“More than Stronmaus”, Megalomagna answered. "He doesn’t have the size or sheer strength that Stronmaus has, but he more than makes up for it with his magical prowess”.
“It would be a great victory for the good if we could bring him down”, Korvac said, scratching his chin.
“Are you serious?”, Bosco asked out loud, causing everyone in the Bard’s Tavern to look at him. He immediately sunk in his chair while the Party laughed.
“The hobbit is right to be perplexed”, Megalomagna said. “Mephistopheles is the kind of entity that, even if killed, won’t stay dead for long. Besides, there’s a strong hierarchy in Hell, so the absence of such a high ranking devil would cause an uproar that could even destroy the Lower Planes entirely”.
“I don’t see how the destruction of Hell would be a bad thing”, Donovan said.
“That’s why you’re a warrior and not a higher being”, Megalomagna mocked. “There must be a balance between the Upper and Lower planes, or else the one to suffer the most will be the Prime Material Plane – where you dolts stand right now”.
“As far as I know, there’s a war already being waged in Hell”, Kharius said. “Hellish creatures love war more than anything”.
"Talking about hellish creatures, there's something I'd like to discuss. It's about the red dragon", Bosco said, lowering his voice.
"What is it?", Donovan asked, pausing the sip of his beer.
"That monster had a lair, right? We know where it is. What do you say we raid the place down and take the treasure? I mean, we killed the beast. We deserve the spoils", Bosco reasoned.
"Greedy hobbit strikes again...", Megalomagna joked.
"I don’t know", Donovan said. "Do we really need it? I mean, there probably is a lot of treasure there, even more than the green dragon had, but still...".
"I don't share Bosco's greed", Korvac said. "But I do think we could use the treasure to help the poor".
"I don’t think a red dragon would leave its lair unprotected", Kharius reasoned. "I'm sure it laid out many treacherous traps and might even have left dangerous guardians".
"Words contain power, Kharius! You, more than anyone, should know!", Bosco admonished.
"What do you want me to say?", Kharius said, raising his hands. "Red dragons are cunning and obsessed with treasure. It being obsessed with Melagomagna there doesn't mean it left the treasure unguarded".
"You guys really hate my name, huh?", Megalomagna complained.
"It's too long and hard to say!", Donovan interjected. "There are so many nice names: Sting, Fire Tongue, Holy Avenger. But you had to go with Megalomagna".
"I like my name!", Megalomagna exclaimed. "It's long, strong and pompous, like me".
"Pompous, indeed", Korvac added.
"All right, since you're just wasting my time with your 'pointless blabbering', I'll untie the dispute on the dragon's treasure: we are going", Megalomagna said.
"Who said you had a say in this?", Donovan said, annoyed.
"Oh but I do", the sword answered. "I can learn new spells, remember? I can even learn a Wish spell and wish for you to become a sword too! Can you imagine a warrior wielding ‘mighty Bonovan +4?’".
"All right, we'll go!", Donovan said, defeated.
"As I said before our last quest, I'm not joining you on this", Kharius said. "I promised myself I wouldn't involve myself in your sword's affairs".
"Look at you acting all high and mighty", Megalomagna interjected. "You got to know the God of Magic because of me! You’ve even learned a 10th tier spell because of me".
"Boccob taught me the spell, not you", Kharius retorted.
"Don't change the subject. The fact here is that you owe this Party what you've earned. And you owe me!", Megalomagna said, defiant.
"I owe you nothing!", Kharius slapped the table, got up from his chair and left the tavern.
"I better go after him", Bosco said, getting up.
"Meggie, you should tone down a little. I don't want my Party disbanded because of your acid remarks", Donovan admonished.
"Was I wrong?", Megalomagna said, and Donovan exchanged worried glances with Korvac as they emptied their mugs in one gulp.
"Kharius", Bosco called.
"Unacceptable!", Kharius exclaimed. "Can you believe that artifact? Since it came into our lives, it's like we're riding a roc that has gone insane and won't ever let us dismount".
"I know what you mean", Bosco said. "The sword is not only powerful, it's also persuasive. And it's motives are always unclear".
"It hates me for being a mage", Kharius vented. "And it doesn't mind the suffering of others. Look at this town. It may have been rebuilt miraculously, but the people still suffered by the hands of the red dragon. They remember the pain of being burned to death".
"That kind of thing happens with or without an intelligent sword being the cause, Kharius", Bosco replied. "Evil dragons do that all the time".
"It just hits you different when you know you're to blame", Kharius said. "If the dragon had never met the sword, the town would never have been destroyed".
"Now that's a stretch", Bosco said, laughing a little. "You didn't pick up the sword, Donovan did. Let him handle the guilt. You are exactly the opposite: you’ve saved everyone. And without you, no sword in the world would have kept us alive this long".
Kharius felt his eyes watering.
"We are a great Party, aren't we?", Kharius said.
"Yes we are!", Bosco answered, joyful. "We have defeated evil dragons, evil giants, evil priests, fought a god...we are awesome!".
"I think the sword has a thing or two to learn on persuasion from you, my friend", Kharius said tapping Bosco's small shoulder. "Come on, let's have another beer".
Upon reentering the tavern, they were received by a worried Donovan.
"Don't worry, brother", Kharius said. "As long as we have this persistent hobbit with us, I'm not leaving this Party".
"Great! This is fantastic news!", Donovan said, pulling every party member to a hug. "I'm so glad. Let's cheer!".
"Fine, fine", Kharius said, sitting back at the table. "But let's prepare before going into battle again, okay? We're planning on barging into a red dragon's lair at the base of an active volcano. Even though the dragon is gone, we are bound to find dangerous flame-dwelling creatures there".
"Not to mention the traps", Korvac added.
"Leave those to me", Bosco said proudly. "You focus on keeping me alive", he said with a goofy grin.
"All right then, give me a sign when you are ready to leave", Donovan said.
"Wait", Megalomagna said. Kharius glared at the sword, suspicious.
"Don't give me that look", the sword said. "You're planning on forging a Frost Brand, aren't you?".
"How did you know that?", Kharius asked, intrigued.
"It's your best bet against fire-laden enemies", Megalomagna said. "But you're a wizard. A common Frost Brand would be impossible for you to wield properly".
"I'm actually quite skilled with a sword", Kharius retorted.
"Is that so?", Megalomagna said, chuckling. "Hold me, then".
"What?", Kharius asked, confused.
"You heard me. Pick me up. With your hand!", the sword exclaimed. As Donovan handed the sword to Kharius, the half-elf felt his body being pulled down, causing the tip of the sword to plunge onto the tavern's wooden floor, cracking it. The sword was unimaginably heavy, more than the heaviest of the war hammers.
"For the Gods, how can you even lift this thing?", Kharius said perplexed.
"It's who I am", Megalomagna said. "Now hand me over to Karmac".
"Korvac".
"Whatever".
Korvac took the weapon in his hand with ease. "It's very light indeed. Although it has a somewhat ominous aura permeating it", the priest said.
"Irrelevant", Megalomagna retorted. "What matters here is that wizards cannot use me in battle. I'd be nothing but a burden".
"What's your point?", Kharius asked, impatient.
"My point is that I know how to create this animosity on a weapon. I created it myself, remember? Orion? Rings any bells?".
"Yes! Please get to the point", Kharius said, weary.
"If I can create animosity, I can reverse the enchantment to create amiability. I can help you devise a Frost Brand that wizards can wield".
"Will it be like you? An eternally blabbering sword?", Kharius asked, and the Party laughed.
"Very funny. No, it won't be an intelligent weapon, if that's what you wanna know. But it can have an alignment nonetheless. Like the hobbit's Sunblade".
"That would be good. A special sword should be warded in case it falls in the wrong hands", Kharius pondered.
"Then we're set. Get to work, everyone!", Megalomagna rallied.
"I already told you to stop with that", Donovan admonished.
"You don't even know what to do next, numbskull!", the sword retorted.
"I guess the sword is right", Bosco joined. "How do we even forge a magical sword?".
"Do I have to teach you everything? Let's see a smith first. We'll start from there", Megalomagna said.
***
"So, what kind of sword do you want, Kharius?", Bosco asked.
"A regular longsword, I guess. But it has to be finely crafted. A masterpiece, basically".
The smith's eyes glowed at the half-elf's statement.
"I have just the sword you need!", he said, went to the back of the store in a hurry, then came back with a sword so well polished its blade looked like a mirror.
"500 gold for this one", the smith said.
"Will this be good enough?", Kharius asked Megalomagna. "Yes", the sword answered telepathically so as to avoid being seen by the smith.
"I'll take it", Kharius said, dropping the gold coins on the table. The smith was lost for words as the Party left with a Frost Brand-to-be.
"Now we need a few enchantments before going out", Megalomagna said. "Go see the wizard, but go alone. You're in good standing with him since you restored the whole town. If he sees me, you can forget about your Frost Brand".
***
"Are you Kharius Bloodmoon?", the wizard's voice could be heard as soon as the half-elf stepped through the tower's entrance.
"Yes, old wizard".
"Is the sword with you?", he asked.
"It's not".
"What do you want?", the wizard asked bluntly.
"To enchant an item. I want a Frost Brand sword I can personally wield", Kharius said.
The wizard suddenly teleported before Kharius. "You're a wizard. Why would you want a sword?", the wizard said, inquisitive.
“Huh…we are set on a mission that will have many dangerous fire-laden creatures, and I want to make sure I can fight even if I run out of spells”, Kharius said, cornered.
The old wizard frowned.
“You are not planning on provoking another red dragon, are you? Because if you are, I will make sure to dispose of you and your Party myself before that”, he threatened.
“I promise you we are not dealing with any red dragons!”, Kharius exclaimed, with a hand in his chest.
The old wizard straightened himself and cleared his throat.
“I appreciate what you’ve done for this town. I think even I was losing my mind with all that happened. Casting a Wish spell to return things as they were at such a young age is quite a feat”, the old wizard said.
“I’m not that young, old man…”, Kharius said, a little upset.
“No matter. So you want to devise a Frost-Brand sword, huh? You need to cast a few spells on it before venturing outside. Let me see...Enchant an Item, Resist Fire, Endure Heat, Protection from Fire, Quench Fire, Cone of Cold, Ice Storm, Wall of Ice, Chill Metal, Continual Light, Permanency. You cast the spells you know, and I will handle the rest for…mmm…2000 gold pieces”.
“I also want it to have a good alignment”, Kharius interjected, not paying attention to the price.
“Good! That’s wise of you. Call your priest friend and ask him to cast Protection from Evil on the sword before we cast Permanency”.
“I might have to use your lab…”, Kharius said, humbly.
“100 gold pieces a day, is that acceptable?”, the old wizard said with the typical shopkeeper’s tone.
“Deal. And what do I have to do after the spells are cast?”, Kharius asked.
“Then you need to find and kill a white dragon”, the old wizard said, serious.
“Another dragon? We are going to get into trouble for killing so many of those ancient creatures”, Kharius complained.
“You don’t have to worry about this one. White dragons are shunned even by other chromatic dragons, since they are less intelligent and live in polar areas, very far from any civilization. But it doesn’t mean you don’t have to be careful. They are still powerful and their habitat is home to other very dangerous creatures”.
“Then we are agreed”, Kharius said. “As soon as the spells are completed, we’re off for a white dragon hunting”.
***
“How was it with the old man?”, Donovan asked Kharius.
“He seems to have returned to normal after the Wish spell”, Kharius said, relieved. “He will lend his lab for us to enchant the sword, but once all the enchantments are finished, we need to find and kill a white dragon”.
“Another dragon?”, Bosco said, dismayed. “And after we almost got burned to a crisp, now you want us to freeze to death!”.
“It doesn’t have to be an ancient dragon, and remember that even the weakest of dragons will always have treasure. It won’t be a fruitless endeavor”, Kharius remembered.
“Wait, wait, wait. Who said you have to kill the dragon?”, Megalomagna interjected.
“Don’t we?”, Kharius asked, puzzled.
“If you were to craft a normal Frost Brand, you could go with bathing the sword in white dragon’s blood and whatnot”, Megalomagna said. “But you want a sword that sympathizes with you, right? Then you need to provide the sacrifice yourself”.
“How? By bathing it in my own blood?”, Kharius asked.
“Almost. You must let some of your blood spill on the sword and then immediately expose it to the dragon’s cold breath. And you must be holding the sword while you do it”, the sword said.
“Are you crazy?”, Bosco admonished. “We are not letting Kharius take such a risk just because of a sword”.
“Don’t worry, Bosco”, Kharius tranquilized him. “This is an important step for me as a wizard and as an enchanter. I’m sure I can do it”.
“I honestly believe fighting the white dragon is the easiest part”, Donovan said. “The hardest part is finding it. As far as I know, they dwell only in polar regions”.
“The Great Glacier is probably the place to go”, Korvac said. “It’s a relatively long ride towards the Cold Lands north of Damara. The place is rather inhospitable; we better prepare a spell to bring us back home safely or we may have trouble getting out of there”.
“Good idea”, Bosco said. “I don’t want to feel cold twice if I can only feel it once”.
“Don’t bother with the cold, Bosco”, Donovan said, cheerful. “We can warm ourselves up later when we go to the red dragon’s lair. Now it’s white dragon hunting time!”.
After finishing their preparations, the Party jumped on a wagon bound for the Cold Lands, bringing the Frost Brand-to-be in tow.
***
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PARTY STATS – QUEST START
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DONOVAN STRIDE (Warrior/Human) - LVL 24
* Strength: 16
* Dexterity: 13
* Constitution: 15
* Intelligence: 9
* Wisdom: 10
* Charisma: 10
* HP: 194
* TAC0: 2
* AC: -3 (Gold Dragon Scale Mail / Shield +2)
* Attack dmg: 1d8+5, +7 against spellcasters – attacks twice per round
* XP: 1.482.350
ITEMS:
* Gold Dragon Scale Mail (AC -1)
* Shield +2
----------------------------------------
KORVAC THE BLESSED (Cleric/Human) - LVL 23
* Strength: 12
* Dexterity: 10
* Constitution: 13
* Intelligence: 10
* Wisdom: 18
* Charisma: 14
* HP: 115
* TAC0: 5
* AC: 3 (Chain Mail +2)
* Attack dmg: 2d6+3 (flail +3)
* XP: 1.477.350
SPELLS:
* 1st circle: Cure Light Wounds (7x a day)
* 1st circle: Detect Evil (6x a day)
* 1st circle: Protection from Evil (4x a day)
* 2nd circle: Augury (5x a day)
* 2nd circle: Resist Fire/Resist Cold (5x a day)
* 3rd circle: Dispel Magic (4x a day)
* 3rd circle: Cure Disease (4x a day)
* 3rd circle: Remove Paralysis (4x a day)
* 4th circle: Cure Serious Wounds (5x a day)
* 4th circle: Neutralize Poison (4x a day)
* 4th circle: Divination (2x a day)
* 4th circle: Protection From Evil, 10' (2x a day)
* 5th circle: Cure Critical Wounds (4x a day)
* 5th circle: Raise Dead (3x a day)
* 5th circle: Flame Strike (3x a day)
* 5th circle: Dispel Evil (3x a day)
* 5th circle: True Seeing (2x a day)
* 5th circle: Atonement (1x a day)
* 5th circle: Plane Shift (1x a day)
* 6th circle: Heal (4x a day)
* 6th circle: Conjure Fire Elemental (2x a day)
* 6th circle: Forbiddance (1x a day)
* 6th circle: Blade Barrier (1x a day)
* 6th circle: Word of Recall (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Resurrection (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Restoration (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Holy Word (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Regenerate (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Gate (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Symbol (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Sunray (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Exaction (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Conjure Earth Elemental (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Succor (1x a day)
* 8th circle: Mass Heal (1x a week)
ITEMS:
* Pearl of Wisdom +2
* Ring of Fire Resistance
* Flail +3
* Chain Mail +2
* Incense of Meditation (Priest - 2 pieces)
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BOSCO TUMBLEFOOT (Thief/Hobbit) - LVL 23
* Strength: 14
* Dexterity: 19
* Constitution: 16
* Intelligence: 12
* Wisdom: 14
* Charisma: 12
* HP: 135
* TAC0: 6
* AC: 2 (cloak of protection +2)
* Attack dmg: 1d12+2 (+4 against evil)
* XP: 1.482.450
ITEMS:
* Sunblade +2, +4 against evil creatures
* Slippers of Spider Climbing
* Wand of Fire
* Stone of Controlling Earth Elementals
----------------------------------------
KHARIUS BLOODMOON (Wizard/Half-Elf) - LVL 22
* Strength: 10
* Dexterity: 16
* Constitution: 12
* Intelligence: 17
* Wisdom: 13
* Charisma: 14
* HP: 59
* TAC0: 11
* AC: 1 (Cloak of Displacement +2)
* Attack dmg: dagger 1d4+1 / short bow 1d6+1, +3 against evil creatures
* XP: 1.526.450
ITEMS:
* Wand of Magic Missile (5 charges)
* Dagger +1
* Short Bow +1, +3 against evil creatures
* Cloak of Displacement +2
SPELLS:
* 1st Arcane Level: Magic Missile (6x a day) – 8 missiles
* 1st Arcane Level: Detect Magic (5x a day)
* 1st Arcane Level: Burning Hands (4x a day)
* 2nd Arcane Level: Levitate (5x a day)
* 2nd Arcane Level: Melf’s Acid Arrow (5x a day)
* 2nd Arcane Level: Knock (1x a day)
* 3rd Arcane Level: Fireball (4x a day)
* 3rd Arcane Level: Lightning Bolt (4x a day)
* 3rd Arcane Level: Haste (3x a day)
* 4th Arcane Level: Charm Monster (4x a day)
* 4th Arcane Level: Enchanted Weapon (3x a day)
* 4th Arcane Level: Ice Storm (4x a day)
* 4th Arcane Level: Remove Curse (1x a day)
* 5th Arcane Level: Conjure Elemental (4x a day)
* 5th Arcane Level: Feeblemind (3x a day)
* 5th Arcane Level: Cone of Cold (4x a day)
* 5th Arcane Level: Hold Monster (3x a day)
* 6th Arcane Level: Chain Lightning (4x a day)
* 6th Arcane Level: Stone to Flesh (2x a day)
* 6th Arcane Level: True Seeing (2x a day)
* 6th Arcane Level: Antimagic Shell (1x a day)
* 6th Arcane Level: Mislead (1x a day)
* 7th Arcane Level: Mordenkainen's Sword (2x a day)
* 7th Arcane Level: Limited Wish (2x a day)
* 7th Arcane Level: Prismatic Spray (2x a day)
* 8th Arcane Level: Mind Blank (2x a day)
* 8th Arcane Level: Prismatic Wall (1x a day)
* 9th Arcane Level: Wish (1x a day)
* 9th Arcane Level: Shape Change (1x a day)
* 9th Arcane Level: Monster Summoning VII (1x a day)
* 9th Arcane Level: Power Word, Kill (1x a day)
* 9th Arcane Level: Imprisonment (1x a day)
* 10th Arcane Level: Monster Summoning VIII (1x a week)
***
Crossing the ancient woodlands of Cormanthor was a relatively safe and easy trip, even as the Party witnessed a few dangers such as wyverns roaming the land. By luck or simply by being too strong, the adventurers were not bothered by the fearsome venomous dragon-like creatures, and could leave the Elven forest doing nothing but admiring the verdant beauty.
As the adventurers emerged from the elven realm into the more civilized lands of Impiltur, the weather grew colder. Avalanches and rockslides threatened their progress, forcing the Party to adapt or find alternative routes.
Moving towards Damara, the Party was welcomed by a truly inhospitable environment. The frozen tundra itself presented an endless expanse of challenges, from hidden crevasses to freezing winds that cut through clothing like a dagger. Even with their Protection from Cold cast and running, the Party could still feel the cutting winds tear through their skin.
“Was this really a good idea?”, Bosco asked, curled up. “I miss home, and a hot cup of tea”.
“Steady, my friend”, Donovan said as a city enclosed within sturdy stone walls and guarded by watch towers became clear in the distance. “Heliogabalus is up ahead”.
As the Party approached the gates, two guards forced the wagon to a halt.
“Identify yourselves”, one of the guards said.
“Donovan Stride and crew”, Donovan answered.
“What are you doing here?”, the guard interrogated, suspicious
“We are…huh…”, Donovan stuttered.
“Dwarven equipment”, Kharius said, assertive. “We are here to buy dwarven equipment. We are seasoned adventurers”.
The guard stared at Kharius, furrowing his brows.
“You may pass. But if you do anything funny, we will arrest you and bury you under the ice”, the guard said, opening the gates.
Upon entering Heliogabalus, the Party could easily realize what a testament to resilience in the face of harsh conditions the city was. Divided into the bustling Trade District, the Residential District and the Citadel District, the city is well adapted to the northern climate with buildings constructed with thick stone walls to retain heat, while roofs are steeply angled to allow snow to slide off. Some structures had even enchanted heating elements to combat the chill. Traces of dwarven craftsmanship were noticeable, with intricate stone carvings and sturdy constructions influenced by the Dwarven communities nearby.
“I guess now I understand why you mentioned dwarves to the guards”, Donovan told Kharius.
“Dwarven architects contributed to this city’s construction”, Kharius lectured. “It’s easier to earn respect here if you show respect to them”.
“Doing your homework, as usual”, Bosco said with a little laugh.
“We should find a place where we can find reliable information”, Korvac said. “We’ll never find a white dragon in the middle of this snow and ice without coordinates”.
“I can hear the sound of people talking and laughing”, Bosco said, cupping his ear. “Follow me”, the hobbit said, as he led the Party to an easily recognizable place: a tavern.
***
Entering the tavern, the adventurers had to face their first embarrassment for this mission: literally everyone turned to look at them upon their not-so-discreet entrance. Donovan wasn’t shy at all and actually enjoyed the attention, while Korvac, Kharius and especially Bosco tried very hard to keep their heads low.
“What are you guys doing?”, Donovan asked them, irritated. “You’re not burglars or wanted criminals. Raise your heads as the mighty adventurers that you are!”.
As the Party realized Donovan was right for a change, they raised their heads only to meet the gaze of a strikingly gorgeous woman with ice-blue eyes that seemed to sparkle with a hint of magic. She had long, silver hair cascading down her back and wore elegant, yet practical, garments that blended the beauty of winter aesthetics with the functionality needed to endure the northern chill.
“Greetings, travelers”, she said with a soft, yet firm voice. “What brings you to this distant land?”.
“We would like to have a drink”, Donovan said, not waiting for his Party to say anything. “What would you recommend?”.
With a gentle smile, she went behind the counter and poured a generous mug of stout beer.
“Strong and stout!”, Donovan exclaimed. “Like a warrior should be”.
“As for you, gentlemen?”, she said, politely. “What would you like to drink?”.
“T-the same!”, Bosco said, mustering all the courage he could.
“Three more beers it is…”, she said, serving the beer with a smile.
“Now I feel like home”, Bosco said. “Do we really have to leave?”.
“It sounds like you have an arduous task ahead, dear hobbit”, she said.
“Talk about arduous…we haven’t even begun and I’m already tired!”, he complained, to what she chuckled.
“There are some things we would like to discuss with the owner”, Donovan said. “Would you please call him for me?".
She went serious and the air became chill. Donovan felt the cold sting him like a bee.
“I am the owner”, she said.
“What? Really? A beautiful woman like you?”, Donovan said, surprised.
“Forgive my comrade’s archaic behavior”, Kharius interjected, bowing before her.
“A half-elf”, she said. “I’m Elara. Elara Frostbane”.
“Kharius Bloodmoon, at your service”.
“Hey! I’m gonna tell Moira about this!”, Bosco protested.
“What are you talking about?”, Kharius complained. “I’m just being polite. And there’s nothing between me and Moira!”.
“You guys are interrupting my conversation with Elara”, Donovan admonished.
“You are such good friends”, she said casually. “Now tell me, what business do you have with this humble tavern owner?”.
“We don’t feel comfortable talking about it in public”, Bosco whispered, trying to get as close as he could to her ears.
“Come with me”, she said and proceeded to a table by the corner. As soon as all the Party members settled down, she waved her hands and a fine sheet of ice surrounded them.
“Now they can’t hear us. But if you try anything funny, my guards will know”, she said with such calm demeanor that those outside the ice walls would never imagine it was a serious threat.
“All right, I’ll get straight to the point”, Donovan said. “We are here to kill a white dragon”.
“I told you there’s no need to kill the freaking beast”, Megalomagna interjected.
Elara’s eyebrows raised involuntarily.
“Where did this voice come from?”, she asked suspicious.
“See what you have done?”, Donovan admonished. “How can I explain”, he said to Elara. “Meggie here is an intelligent sword”.
“You suck at making introductions”, the sword said. “I’m Megalomagna. I know you are pleased to meet me”.
“An intelligent sword, huh…”, she mumbled. “Why do you want to kill a white dragon again?”.
“I just told you there’s no need to kill the white lizard!”, Megalomagna exclaimed, annoyed.
“We are trying to enchant a Frost Brand”, Kharius said, embarrassed at his companions. “Killing the white dragon might not be necessary, but we are not sure yet”.
“You came from a far-off land without being sure?”, she asked, perplexed.
“We are adventurers”, Korvac said, joining the conversation for the first time. “Doing crazy things is an adventurer's thing, it seems”.
“White dragons are not the only dangerous creatures around here”, Elara said. “Are you ready to face remorhazes, ice trolls and other aberrations?”.
“We don’t know what those are and yes, we are ready”, Donovan said, emptying his fourth beer mug. “My Party is the strongest you will ever see!”.
“I think you have had enough beer, Donovan”, Korvac said.
“I don’t have any doubts that you are strong, especially since you are wearing armor made of gold dragon scales”, Elara said. “But don’t underestimate the Glacier. There are dangers everywhere you look”.
“We appreciate your concern, Lady Elara”, Kharius said, eliciting a snort from Bosco.
“I will place a cold protection charm over you so you can better traverse the ice and snow”, Elara said. “You will find white dragons as you approach the Great Glacier. On the way there, you will find the northern wastes, with packs of winter wolves. After that there will be the Icewind Outpost, where ice elementals abound. Once you reach the Glacial Haven, the threat of remorhaz will be a constant. As you leave the Haven and approach the glacier, you might find an eventual white dragon patrolling the skies. Don’t let yourself get distracted by the sky, since there are polar bears and other predators waiting to strike. I think that’s all the advice I can give you. Be safe and come back soon for another beer!”.
As the Party left the tavern, Bosco couldn’t help poking Kharius with his elbow.
“What a looker, huh?”, he said. “Human females are very pretty in these parts”.
“She’s a powerful wizard”, Kharius said.
“Really? She seemed so…mellow”, Bosco said.
“She is an enchanter. Her focus is not on battling, but placing charms on people and items”, Kharius replied.
“She has certainly put her charms on Donovan”, Korvac mocked.
“Wizards are too much work”, Donovan vented. “Come on, I wanna kill one of those remorhazes the enchantress told us about”.
***
Traversing the Northern Wastes, the Party doubled its attention on the winter wolves, whose exceptionally white fur served as perfect camouflage amidst the overabundant snow.
The Party felt relieved that the occasional pack would avoid confrontation, maybe following their instincts that fighting such powerful adventurers would be a lethal endeavor.
Then, Bosco heard a human voice.
"Wait", Bosco said, halting everyone. "There”, he pointed to the east.
"I see nothing", Donovan said.
"I'm pretty sure I hear a girl crying", Bosco insisted.
"Let's go", Korvac took charge.
As they approached the voice, the smell of animals decomposing on a hot humid day could be felt, and the figure of a large animal resembling a stag with a leonine tufted tail and cloven hooves became visible behind an ice mound.
"What the hell is that?", Bosco asked, furrowing his eyebrows.
"It looks like...a huge stag without horns, but much uglier", Donovan said, squinting his eyes.
"Was that the source of the noise?", Kharius asked in disbelief.
"Better leave the questions for later!", Korvac exclaimed as the creature charged at them.
----------------------------------------
Leucrotta
* AC 4
* HD 6+1
* HP 75
* THAC0 15
* Dmg 3d6
* XP value: 2.000
----------------------------------------
Initiative
* Party: 4
* Leucrotta: 2
----------------------------------------
Donovan attacks. Rolled 3, 19. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 9, 9.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 6. Hit for 2d6+3: 6.
Bosco attacks. Rolled 1. Missed.
Kharius attacks with bow +3. Rolled 14. Hit for 1d6+3: 7.
Leucrotta attacks Donovan. Rolled 16. Missed.
Donovan attacks. Rolled 4, 7. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 8, 6.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 4. Hit for 2d6+3: 7.
Bosco attacks. Rolled 6. Hit for 1d12+4: 12.
Kharius attacks with bow +3. Rolled 15. Hit for 1d6+3: 9.
Leucrotta attacks Donovan. Rolled 8. Missed.
----------------------------------------
Wounded and outnumbered, the leucrotta turns tail and run.
"After it!", Donovan yelled and gave chase.
----------------------------------------
Donovan attacks. Rolled 15, 5. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 6, 9.
Donovan has been kicked by the leucrotta's hind legs. Donovan has suffered 2d6: 8 damage.
* Donovan HP: 186/194
----------------------------------------
With an ugly wail, the leucrotta fell, deceased.
----------------------------------------
The party has emerged victorious, defeating the leucrotta. Each member has earned a total of 2.000 XP for the defeated monster in this encounter.
* Donovan Stride has accumulated 1.482.350 + 2.000 = 1.484.350 XP
* Korvac the Blessed has accumulated 1.477.350 + 2.000 = 1.479.350 XP
* Bosco Tumblefoot has accumulated 1.482.450 + 2.000 = 1.484.450 XP
* Kharius Bloodmoon has accumulated 1.526.450 + 2.000 = 1.528.450 XP
***
"What a repugnant creature", Korvac said, disgusted.
"Elara never mentioned we would find something like this here", Donovan complained.
"Judging by its breath, this creature is a scavenger", Kharius pondered. "It could have traveled from basically anywhere".
"We better leave before the wolves get too curious", Bosco alerted as a pack of them was already surveying the area.
***
The Icewind Pass was an unforgiving mountainous route for those fool enough to try to get to the Glacial Haven. Treacherous conditions such as icy slopes, freezing temperatures, and unpredictable blizzards were common.
"Watch where you tread", Donovan alerted. "The ice is very soft in some places.
"I think we should have taken a mission before this one. One where we all learned to fly", Bosco complained.
"That wouldn't be a bad idea if the wind wasn't so strong", Kharius said. "But don't worry, friend. I'm here to help you if––".
Out of a sudden, a loud rumbling could be heard.
"Don't tell me...", Donovan mumbled.
"Avalanche!", Korvac screamed, but it was too late. The powerful wave of ice and snow crashed through them like a tsunami, carrying them back until they hit a wall.
----------------------------------------
All Party members suffered 6d6 = 27 damage from the avalanche.
* Donovan HP: 119/194
* Korvac HP: 88/115
* Bosco HP: 108/135
* Kharius HP: 32/59
Kharius casts Burning Hands. The ice begins to melt and the adventurers are able to breathe.
----------------------------------------
"Blergh! I can'f feel my fongue!", Bosco said, getting up with difficulty.
"This was dangerous", Kharius said, worried. "If we keep getting hit by these, we might never be able to reach the other side".
"I can see something moving up ahead", Korvac said.
"Is that a small tornado?", Donovan asked.
"I think it's something else...and more dangerous", Kharius said, assuming fighting stance.
The tornado gradually stopped, revealing a large creature made of ice.
"Is that an ice elemental? Was it responsible for the avalanche? Kharius?", Donovan said, reaching for Megalomagna.
"Yes, and it's serious about killing us", Kharius replied as the creature lunged for the attack.
----------------------------------------
Ice Elemental
* AC 2
* 16 HD
* HP: 75
* THAC0 7
* Dmg: 6d6/6d6
* XP Value: 10.000
* +2 or better weapons to hit. Immune to cold. Takes +1 damage per hit die when hit with fire.
----------------------------------------
INITIATIVE
* Party: 1
* Ice Elemental: 5
----------------------------------------
Ice Elemental attacks Donovan. Rolled 4, 18. One hit for 6d6: 23.
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* Donovan HP: 96/194
----------------------------------------
“What a dangerous creature”, Donovan said, felling the blow. “We better dispose of it quickly”.
----------------------------------------
Donovan attacks Ice Elemental. Rolled 20, 8. Two hits for 7, 11.
* Ice Elemental HP: 57/75
Korvac casts Cure Critical Wounds on Kharius for 3d8+3: 17.
* Kharius HP: 49/59
Bosco attacks Ice Elemental. Rolled 8. Hit for 1d12+2: 10.
* Ice Elemental HP: 47/75
Kharius casts Lightning Bolt for 22d6: 78. Ice elemental saves vs. spell. Rolled 10. Saved. Suffered 39 damage.
* Ice Elemental HP: 8/75
Ice Elemental attacks Donovan. Rolled 9, 15. One hit for 6d6: 19.
* Donovan HP: 77/194
----------------------------------------
“Kharius!”, Donovan screamed. “I’m dropping this guy now, get ready to blast off any other avalanches!”.
“On it”, Kharius answered, ready.
----------------------------------------
Donovan attacks Ice Elemental. Rolled 20, 8. Two hits for 13, 3. Two hits for 12, 7.
----------------------------------------
The ice elemental awkwardly began to lose parts of its ice body, and as it mentioned to attack, it broke and fell to the ground, shattering into a thousand pieces.
----------------------------------------
The party has emerged victorious, defeating the Ice Elemental. Each member has earned a total of 10.000 XP for the defeated monster in this encounter.
* Donovan Stride has accumulated 1.484.350 + 10.000 = 1.494.350 XP.
* Korvac the Blessed has accumulated 1.479.350 + 10.000 = 1.489.350 XP.
* Bosco Tumblefoot has accumulated 1.484.450 + 10.000 = 1.494.450 XP.
* Kharius Bloodmoon has accumulated 1.528.450 + 10.000 = 1.538.450 XP.
----------------------------------------
“I think I might need some healing”, Donovan said, limping.
----------------------------------------
Korvac casts Cure Critical Wounds on Donovan for 3d8+3: 16.
Korvac casts Cure Critical Wounds on Donovan for 3d8+3: 18.
Korvac casts Cure Critical Wounds on Donovan for 3d8+3: 12.
* Donovan HP: 123/194
----------------------------------------
“I never imagined an elemental could cause this much damage”, Korvac said, perplexed.
“This is the perfect environment for an ice elemental, and we are extremely vulnerable against them right now”, Kharius pondered. “We better leave this pass as soon as we can”.
“Easier said than done!”, Bosco said, trying to move his short legs on the soft snow.
As the Party fought their way out of the icy caves, they saw something that resembled an outpost. The adventurers should be relieved to finally find a place to rest, but something was off. There was no people in the vicinity and loud bangs could be heard in the distance.
“What the hell is going on here?”, Donovan said. “Where’s everyone”.
“Look!”, Kharius said, pointing to an enormous creature, similar to a troll but almost the size of a Giant, ravaging the outpost.
“A giant…troll?”, Bosco asked, puzzled.
“A giant ice troll, to be more accurate”, Kharius pointed out. “Probably a hideous troll/frost giant crossbreed”.
----------------------------------------
Giant Ice Troll
* 11 HD
* HP: 150
* AC 4
* THAC0 13
* Dmg: 1d8+9/1d8+9
* Regenerates 2 HP per round if immersed in water. Fire deals double damage. Immune to cold.
----------------------------------------
“Great”, Megalomagna vented. “More trolls. Can somebody just throw me as far away from here as you can?”.
“No way, Meggie”, Donovan said. “You’re the best reason I have to face monsters like these head-on!”, he exclaimed and charged to attack.
----------------------------------------
INITIATIVE
* Party: 2
* Giant Ice Troll: 6
----------------------------------------
Giant Ice Troll attacks Donovan. Rolled 16, 1. One hit for 1d8+9: 12.
* Donovan HP: 111/194
Donovan attacks Giant Ice Troll. Rolled 14, 18. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 10, 9.
* Giant Ice Troll HP: 131/150
Korvac casts Flame Strike for 12d8 = 58. Giant Ice Troll saves vs. spell. Rolled 15. Saved. Suffered 29 damage.
* Giant Ice Troll HP: 102/150
Bosco uses Wand of Fire – Burning Hands function – for 6 damage. Giant Ice Troll suffers 12 damage.
* Giant Ice Troll HP: 90/150
Kharius casts Burning Hands for 1d6 + 44 = 50. Giant Ice Troll suffers 100 damage.
* Giant Ice Troll HP: -10/150
The Giant Ice Troll is falling on top of Donovan. He must save vs. death or suffer 5d10 crushing damage. Rolled 16. Saved.
----------------------------------------
With a heavy crash, taking down tents and watch towers, the enormous troll fell to the ground, causing cracks on the ground and raising a great amount of icy dust.
----------------------------------------
The party has emerged victorious, defeating the Giant Ice Troll. Each member has earned a total of 8.000 XP for the defeated monster in this encounter.
* Donovan Stride has accumulated 1.494.350 + 8.000 = 1.502.350 XP
* Korvac the Blessed has accumulated 1.489.350 + 8.000 = 1.497.350 XP
* Bosco Tumblefoot has accumulated 1.494.450 + 8.000 = 1.502.450 XP
* Kharius Bloodmoon has accumulated 1.538.450 + 8.000 = 1.546.450 XP
***
“That was too close!”, Donovan exclaimed. “Can you imagine that thing falling on top of me?”.
“You would die”, Bosco said. “Yep, you’d be very much dead”.
Kharius and Korvac couldn’t help laughing.
“Yeah yeah, very funny”, Donovan said, annoyed. “I’m always the one those stupid monsters target. Being a warrior is not easy, you know?”.
“Well, you reap what you sow”, Megalomagna said. “But on the bright side, you get to fight with an awesome sword like me!”.
“I don’t think you will get ready of the nickname ‘Troll Killer’ anytime soon, Meggie”, Donovan told the sword. “You’re just too convenient against them”.
“And you’re too inconvenient for saying those things”, the sword retorted. “Hey wizard”, it said to Kharius.
“What is it?”, he answered, annoyed at the sword’s rudeness.
“Stick the longsword in the troll’s body. Quickly before it freezes!”, Megalomagna said.
“Why? Isn’t the dragon breath the only thing left?”, Kharius questioned.
“I forgot about the ice troll blood, ok? Now do it and stop questioning me!”, Megalomagna snapped.
“Unbelievable…”, Kharius muttered, as he stuck the sword into the troll’s body until it was bathed in the creature’s blood.
“Good”, Megalomagna said. “Now the white dragon’s breath will be the last touch”.
“I hope so, you damn sword!”, Kharius admonished.
“We should better check for survivors”, Korvac said. “There might be casualties”.
“Quickly moving through the ravaged outpost, the Party encountered several lifeless bodies of people attacked by the troll, but also two wounded people, a man and a woman, who promptly called for help as soon as they saw the Party.
“Thank you, blessed Priest”, the man said as their wounds began to heal. “I thought we were prepared to repel any threats, but we could never imagine a monstrosity such as a crossbreed ice giant troll would appear here”.
“Are there any Frost Giants in the surrounding areas?”, Donovan asked. “It’s hard to believe they would allow a creature like that to roam free”.
“Frost Giants aren’t to be trusted, and honestly the simple fact that they let a troll breed with one of them is enough evidence that they don’t care”, the woman said.
“We are looking for a white dragon”, Bosco said.
“A hobbit!”, the man said, exchanging surprised glances with the woman. “I never imagined I would see one in this life”.
“Yes, I am a hobbit. White dragons? Any tips?”, Bosco said, a little impatient.
“Right, right. White dragons…I’m pretty sure you can find one as soon as you cross the Glacial Haven. But you should rest and recover before you go, since remorhaz and frost giants dwell in the area”, the man said..
“Good. We will have a short rest to recover and will depart shortly afterwards”, Donovan said, storming into an empty tent unceremoniously.
----------------------------------------
The party has rested enough to recover full HP and memorize all spells used.
----------------------------------------
“All right, I think we are good to go now”, Donovan said, stretching his arms.
“Are you really that eager to see this remorhaz thing?”, Bosco asked Donovan as they traversed the snow.
“Well, everyone is telling us to beware, so it must be a strong monster”, Donovan pondered. “I’m just curious to see how it is and how we can bring it do–”.
Donovan couldn’t finish his sentence as a gigantic creature emerged from the snow towards the surface with great force. It was a blue-colored insectoid worm-like monster with white eyes, a winged head and neck, standing on dozens of chitinous legs.
----------------------------------------
The Party has been ambushed and will suffer a surprise attack before rolling for initiative.
Remorhaz
* AC Overall 0, head 2, underbelly 4
* HD 14
* 200 HP
* THAC0 7
* Dmg 6d6
* XP value: 15.000
Swallows prey whole on an unmodified attack roll of 20. Deals 6d6 damage each turn to swallowed creatures due to the heat and the monster’s corrosive digestive juices. The insides of the Remorhaz have AC 4 and 20 damage must be done by a swallowed creature for it to break free.
----------------------------------------
Remorhaz attacks Donovan. Rolled 2. Missed.
INITIATIVE
* Party: 5
* Remorhaz: 9
Remorhaz attacks Donovan. Rolled 3. Missed.
----------------------------------------
“This worm is fast, but not very accurate”, Donovan yelled. “Let’s see how it fares against a sharp blade”.
----------------------------------------
Donovan attacks. Rolled 13, 11. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 12, 7.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 14. Hit for 2d6+3: 12.
Bosco attacks. Rolled 6. Hit for 1d12+2: 4.
Kharius casts Mordenkainen’s sword (THAC0 7 | 5d6 damage). Kharius attacks. Rolled 20. Hit for 5d6: 19.
* Remorhaz HP: 146/200
Remorhaz attacks Donovan. Rolled 8. Missed.
Donovan attacks. Rolled 19, 9. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 9, 12.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 5. Hit for 2d6+3: 6.
Bosco attacks. Rolled 18. Hit for 1d12+2: 14.
Kharius attacks with Mordenkainen’s sword. Rolled 17. Hit for 5d6: 16.
* Remorhaz HP: 89/200
Remorhaz attacks Bosco. Rolled 8. Hit for 6d6: 20.
* Bosco HP: 115/135
----------------------------------------
“Careful, Bosco!”, Donovan shouted.
Donovan attacks. Rolled 8, 9. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 11, 11.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 1. Missed.
Bosco attacks. Rolled 16. Hit for 1d12+2: 5.
Kharius attacks with Mordenkainen’s sword. Rolled 14. Hit for 5d6: 18.
* Remorhaz HP: 44/200
Remorhaz attacks Bosco. Rolled 14. Hit for 6d6: 20.
* Bosco HP: 95/135
----------------------------------------
“This damn worm is smart enough to go for the smaller prey”, Donovan said.
“I’m not small and I’m not letting this thing eat me!”, Bosco shouted.
----------------------------------------
Donovan attacks. Rolled 6, 5. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 12, 7.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 10. Hit for 2d6+3: 11.
Bosco attacks. Rolled 14. Hit for 1d12+2: 5.
Kharius attacks with Mordenkainen’s sword. Rolled 19. Hit for 5d6: 22.
----------------------------------------
With a shrill scream, the remorhaz struggled in pain until it lost consciousness and fell, inert.
----------------------------------------
The party has emerged victorious, defeating the Remorhaz. Each member has earned a total of 15.000 XP for the defeated monster in this encounter.
* Donovan Stride has accumulated 1.502.350 + 15.000 = 1.517.350 XP.
* Korvac the Blessed has accumulated 1.497.350 + 15.000 = 1.512.350 XP.
* Bosco Tumblefoot has accumulated 1.502.450 + 15.000 = 1.517.450 XP.
* Kharius Bloodmoon has accumulated 1.546.450 + 15.000 = 1.561.450 XP.
***
“A truly monstrous creature”, Kharius said.
“Very resilient too”, Donovan added.
“And very dangerous!”, Bosco complemented. “Why was it targeting me so much? Do it taste so great?”.
“I think it sees from a predator’s perspective”, Korvac said.
"What does it mean?", Bosco questioned.
"Means that you look the weakest of the bunch. The runt of the litter", Megalomagna said.
"You're a runt!", Bosco retorted, angry.
"Stop that", Korvac admonished. "We are getting closer to our goal. There's a camp in the valley ahead. That's probably the Glacial Haven".
***
Approaching the camp, the adventurers were received with hostility.
"Who are you? What are you doing here?", a tall and strongly built man asked, spear in hand.
"Wow wow, we come in peace, buddy", Donovan said, raising his hands.
"Answer the question!", the man said, pushing the spear tip towards Donovan's throat.
With a relaxed movement of the sword, Donovan slapped the spear away.
"Let me talk to your leader!", Donovan shouted, imposing.
Suddenly, many heads popped from inside the tents. As a handful of men hurried to the guard's aid, a strong voice brought them to a halt.
"Don't move!", the voice shouted, as an even stronger man appeared. "I will talk to this warrior".
"Are you the leader of this tribe?", Donovan asked.
"Yes, and you are my prisoners", the chieftain said.
"What makes you think you can take us", Bosco said.
The barbarians laughed at Bosco's size. Kharius's eyes burned with rage.
----------------------------------------
Kharius casts Flesh to Stone.
----------------------------------------
One of the men laughing was turned to stone, effectively shutting down their laughs.
"What did you do? Turn him back, you wicked wizard!", the barbarians complained in despair.
"You don't make fun of my comrade and walk away unpunished", Kharius said with a cold voice.
"You are strong", the chieftain said, unfazed at what transpired. "It seems we can't force you to do as we please".
"Glad you are a reasonable bunch", Donovan said.
"Then I propose a challenge", the chieftain said, enticing Donovan's curiosity.
"Donovan...", Kharius tried to say but was interrupted.
"You have to defeat a remorhaz by yourself. Only then we'll treat you as we treat our own", the chieftain declared.
"I accept", Donovan said without thinking.
"Donovan!", Bosco yelled, dismayed. "Don't go accepting things without giving it at least some thought! You saw how strong that creature was, right?".
"It was, but we killed it anyway, didn't we?", Donovan replied.
"So you have already killed a remorhaz?", the chieftain asked.
"Yes, we did!", Bosco said, assertive.
"My compliments. But our warriors face them alone. It's the rite of passage in the White Worm tribe".
"I'll take your challenge. Bring it on", Donovan said, full of confidence.
The Party members sighed, knowing full well how stubborn Donovan could be when excited by a new challenge".
***
The Party was taken to an open icy area by the chieftain and a handful the tribe members, who would serve as witnesses for the challenge. After a certain point, only Donovan was allowed to proceed.
Then, in a similar manner as the first one, a remorhaz broke the frozen surface and uttered a loud roar. it wasn't as large as the first one the party faced, but it was still a fearsome monstrosity.
One would imagine fighting alone with a creature like that would be nothing but nightmare material. Strangely, Donovan was smiling like a boy trying to impress his friends.
----------------------------------------
Remorhaz
* AC Overall 0, head 2, underbelly 4
* HD 8
* 100 HP
* THAC0 13
* Dmg 4d6
* XP value: 25.000
* Swallows prey whole on an unmodified attack roll of 20. Deals 6d6 damage each turn to swallowed creatures due to the heat and the monster’s corrosive digestive juices. The insides of the Remorhaz have AC 4 and 20 damage must be done by a swallowed creature for it to break free.
----------------------------------------
INITIATIVE
* Donovan: 9
* Remorhaz: 1
----------------------------------------
Donovan attacks. Rolled 20, 11. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 12, 11.
* Remorhaz HP: 77/100
Remorhaz attacks Donovan. Rolled 3. Missed.
Donovan attacks. Rolled 14, 7. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 10, 10.
* Remorhaz HP: 57/100
Remorhaz attacks Donovan. Rolled 13. Missed.
Donovan attacks. Rolled 15, 19. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 7, 7.
* Remorhaz HP: 43/100
Remorhaz attacks Donovan. Rolled 20. Hit for 4d6: 9.
Donovan has been swallowed by the remorhaz and will suffer 6d6 damage each round until he dies or breaks free.
* Donovan HP: 185/194
----------------------------------------
"Donovan!", the adventurers screamed.
"I think we've seen all there was to see", the chieftain declared.
"Wait", Korvac said. "This isn't over yet".
----------------------------------------
Donovan attacks the Remorhaz from the inside. Rolled 1, 15. One hit for 1d8+5: 6.
* Remorhaz HP: 37/100
Donovan suffers 6d6 damage: 26.
* Donovan HP: 149/194
Donovan attacks. Rolled 3, 9. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 7, 13.
* Remorhaz HP: 17/100
----------------------------------------
The remorhaz writhes in pain.
"He is fighting his way out!", Bosco exclaimed.
----------------------------------------
Donovan suffers 6d6 damage: 18.
* Donovan HP: 131/194
Donovan attacks. Rolled 10, 7. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 9, 11.
* Remorhaz HP: -3/100
----------------------------------------
The creature howls in pain as Donovan cuts its underbelly open and comes out, bruised and burned.
----------------------------------------
Donovan has emerged victorious, defeating the remorhaz. He has earned 25.000 XP for defeating the monster plus another 25.000 XP for surviving after being swallowed.
* Donovan has accumulated 1.517.350 + 50.000 = 1.567.350 XP.
----------------------------------------
"Ouch, that thing's insides are hot as hell!", Donovan exclaimed.
"Unbelievable!", the chieftain exclaimed. "I've never seen anyone survive after being swallowed by a remorhaz".
"The leader of our Party is not your common swordsman", Korvac said.
"I want you to join my tribe", the chieftain said. "You qualify".
"Not gonna happen, my friend. I like adventuring with these guys", Donovan said, pointing at his Party with his thumb. "But thanks for the challenge. It was thrilling!".
"What we really want is information", Kharius said.
The chieftain furrowed his brows. "What kind of information?".
"White dragons. Where can we find them?", Donovan asked.
The chieftain exchanged glances with his peers and laughed.
"You don't find white dragons. They find you", he told Donovan.
"Don't underestimate my thief's abilities", chieftain, Donovan said, serious.
"You are really planning on raiding a white dragon's lair?".
"Think we can't do it?", Bosco interjected.
The chieftain stared at the adventurers for a second, and ultimately sighed.
"I'll draw a map. But be warned: white dragons don't like to talk. They simply fight to the death".
"Thanks for the map, chieftain", Donovan said, shaking his hand. "We'll be leaving now".
When they gained enough distance, Donovan opened his hand to reveal an amulet.
"Look what I've found inside the monster's belly", Donovan said. "I think it's magical, since it was the only piece of metal the heat couldn't melt".
"It is", Megalomagna confirmed.
"And it doesn't radiate evil", Korvac added.
"Great! This is my reward for killing the worm. I hope you guys don't mind".
Everyone nodded positively as they went on their search for a white dragon.
***
According to the map, a white dragon supposedly had made its lair near the entrance to the Great Glacier. The dangers surrounding the Party went beyond trolls, ice elementals and remorhaz, as the freezing cold was deadly enough to intimidate even the most experienced and seasoned adventurers.
But there was a danger they failed to foresee, and the consequence was felt when, treading the snow, Donovan felt a soaring pain in his feet.
----------------------------------------
Donovan suffered 7d4 = 15 damage.
* Donovan HP: 116/194
----------------------------------------
"Ouch, what was that? Felt like a troll bit my ankle", Donovan complained.
"The ice beneath you is moving, Donovan!", Korvac alerted.
"Holy moly, it's a pudding!", Bosco shouted.
"A what?", Donovan asked, jumping to the side.
"It's a monster that corrodes materials of different kinds. White puddings corrode flesh", Kharius said.
"Disgusting amorphous creature", Korvac said, flail in hand. "Let's get rid of it before it gives out our presence to other monsters".
----------------------------------------
White Pudding
* AC 8
* HD 9
* 100 HP
* THAC0 9
* Dmg 7d4
* XP value: 4.000
* Always surprises
----------------------------------------
INITIATIVE
* Party: 6
* White Pudding: 5
----------------------------------------
Donovan attacks. Rolled 1, 7. One hit for 1d8+5: 7.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 12. Hit for 2d6+3: 5.
Bosco attacks. Rolled 18. Hit for 1d12+2: 14.
Kharius casts Burning Hands for 1d6+44: 46 damage.
* White pudding HP: 28/100
White pudding attacks Korvac. Rolled 20. Hit for 7d4: 19 damage.
* Korvac HP: 96/115
Donovan attacks. Rolled 9, 3. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 7, 11.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 7. Hit for 2d6+3: 6.
Bosco attacks. Rolled 6. Hit for 1d12+2: 8.
* White pudding HP: -4/100
----------------------------------------
The pudding emits a foul stench as it shrivels and turns into a loathsome grey mass.
----------------------------------------
The party has emerged victorious, defeating the White Pudding. Each member has earned a total of 4.000 XP for the defeated monster in this encounter.
* Donovan Stride has accumulated 1.567.350 + 4.000 = 1.571.350 XP.
* Korvac the Blessed has accumulated 1.512.350 + 4.000 = 1.516.350 XP.
* Bosco Tumblefoot has accumulated 1.517.450 + 4.000 = 1.521.450 XP.
* Kharius Bloodmoon has accumulated 1.561.450 + 4.000 = 1.565.450 XP.
***
"More monstrosities just keep appearing", Bosco vented. "What's wrong with this place?".
"Only the cunning and the vicious survive in conditions like this", Kharius said, stern.
"Most creatures here are both", Korvac added.
"Let's move. According to the map, if we climb the wall to the east, we can get to the entrance of a white dragon's lair".
"It's a huge ice wall", Bosco said.
"That's why you go first", Donovan replied. "No one here is as skilled in climbing walls as you. Even more so because you have those slippers of climbing".
"I've tried those", Bosco said, despondent. "They're useless on icy surfaces".
"There's no need for any of us to climb", Kharius said, eliciting curious expressions from his comrades.
----------------------------------------
Kharius casts Shape Change.
----------------------------------------
As Kharius cast the spell, his body began to reform until he turned into a large brown dragon-like creature with two leathery wings and a stinger in its tail.
"A wyvern?", Bosco asked.
"It inhabits frozen areas and is known to snatch people with its talons. If we can make the other creatures think that's what is happening, it will be our perfect cover", Kharius said in wyvern form.
"I still don't feel comfortable being grabbed by a wyvern, even when I know it's Kharius", Bosco said.
"I'll be gentle", Kharius said humorously as he flapped its wings and snatched Bosco and Korvac, dropping them at the cave entrance before coming for Donovan.
"Great", Donovan said. "Goob job, Kharius", he told the half-elf as he turned to his original form.
"The spell is still in effect, so don't fret if you see me change form again", Kharius remarked.
Inside the cave, the Party could see, laying on the ground, remains of what probably once were the white dragon's prey, such as walrus and mammoth tusk ivory, whale-bone sculptures, as well as figureheads from ships, furs from different animals, loose coins and gems spread across the floor, glittering like stars as the sunlight struck them.
"Some healing right now will be welcome, huh Korvac the Great?", Donovan said.
"Blessed, not Great", the priest admonished.
----------------------------------------
Korvac casts Cure Critical Wounds on Donovan for 3d8+3: 21 HP.
Korvac casts Cure Critical Wounds on Donovan for 3d8+3: 13 HP.
Korvac casts Cure Critical Wounds on Bosco for 3d8+3: 16 HP.
* Donovan HP: 150/194
* Bosco HP: 111/135
----------------------------------------
"Are those eggs?", Bosco said with eyes wide open.
"One, two, three...eight", Donovan counted. "Eight eggs".
"So this dragon is a mother?", Kharius asked, worried.
They had no time to discuss things further as a fearsome roar could be heard from inside the cave.
"Here it comes. Ready, everyone!", Donovan shouted.
"Wait. I'll go first. I must endure its frost breath or our quest will have been for naught", Kharius said, unsheathing the longsword and making a cut on his arm so the blood poured onto the blade.
----------------------------------------
Kharius takes 1 damage.
* Kharius HP: 58/59
----------------------------------------
White Dragon
* Intelligence Low (5-7)
* Age: 6 (Adult)
* AC -1
* HD 13
* 220 HP
* THAC0 7
* Dmg 1d6/1d6/2d8 (claw/claw/bite) or 6d6+6 (cone of frost breath weapon)
* XP value: 100.000
----------------------------------------
The white dragon attacks Kharius with its breath weapon. No saving throw is allowed. The attacks deals 6d6+6: 26 damage.
* Kharius HP: 32/59
----------------------------------------
Upon receiving the cold magical breath, the sword emitted a dazzlingly bright white light, effectively blinding everyone for 1 round.
"Now! Let's get out of here!", Kharius shouted.
"What? How?", Donovan asked, covering his eyes with his forearm. "They fight to the death, remember?".
Before anyone could say anything, the white dragon plummeted on top of Kharius, dropping its enormous weight over the half-elf for 2d8: 7 damage.
----------------------------------------
* Kharius HP: 25/59
----------------------------------------
Initiative:
* Donovan 2
* Korvac 7
* Bosco 2+2
* Kharius 1
----------------------------------------
Korvac casts Conjure Fire Elemental. Rolled 1d100: 66. A 12 Hit-Dice elemental appeared.
Fire Elemental
* 12 HD
* HP: 70
* AC: 2
* THAC0 7
* Dmg: 3d8
----------------------------------------
Bosco activates the Stone of Controlling Earth Elementals. A 12 Hit-Dice elemental appeared.
Earth Elemental
* 12 HD
* HP: 70
* AC: 2
* THAC0 9
* Dmg: 4d8
----------------------------------------
"Meggie, can you taunt that thing?", Donovan shouted.
"I don't know. We'll see", the sword replied.
----------------------------------------
Megalomagna casts Taunt. White Dragon saves vs. spell: 14. Saved.
----------------------------------------
"Yep, it didn't work", Megalomagna said.
"What a half-assed attempt!", Donovan complained.
"Let the wizard handle the situation once for a change!", Megalomagna retorted.
"I won't let you do everything as you please, white reptile", Kharius said. "I tried to spare you in respect to your children but you leave me no choice".
As he spoke, Kharius grew in size until he looked exactly like a frost giant, effectively releasing him from the dragon's plummet.
"Damn wizard", the dragon growled.
----------------------------------------
Kharius attacks with fists. Rolled 19, 14. Two hits for 1d8+9 each: 17, 16.
* White Dragon HP: 187/220
White dragon attacks Kharius. Rolled 13, 6, 5. One hit for 1d6: 2.
* Kharius HP: 23/59
Fire Elemental attacks. Rolled 8. Hit for 3d8: 6.
Earth Elemental attacks. Rolled 16. Hit for 4d8: 23.
Donovan attacks. Rolled 18, 15. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 7, 11.
Korvac casts Heal on Kharius. HP completely restored.
* Kharius HP: 59/59
Bosco attacks. Rolled 20. Hit for 1d12+4: 13.
Kharius attacks. Rolled 17, 16. Two hits for 1d8+9 each: 17, 15.
* White Dragon HP: 95/220
White Dragon casts Ice Storm for 4d10: 23 damage.
* Donovan HP: 171/194
* Korvac HP: 92/115
* Bosco HP: 112/135
* Kharius HP: 59/59 (not affected)
* Fire Elemental HP: 47/70
* Earth Elemental HP: 47/70
Fire Elemental attacks. Rolled 12. Hit for 3d8: 14.
Earth Elemental attacks. Rolled 12. Hit for 4d8: 20.
Donovan attacks. Rolled 9, 15. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 6, 9.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 17. Hit for 2d6+3: 10.
Bosco attacks. Rolled 15. Hit for 1d12+4: 11.
Kharius attacks. Rolled 3, 13. One hit for 1d8+9: 10.
* White Dragon HP: 15/220
----------------------------------------
The white dragon, wounded and bleeding, charges its breath weapon for a last attempt at weakening the Party.
----------------------------------------
White Dragon uses cold breath for 6d6+6: 34. All affected must save vs. breath weapon to reduce damage by half.
* Donovan: 4. Failed.
* Korvac: 15. Saved.
* Bosco: 6. Failed.
* Kharius (not affected).
* Fire Elemental: 4. Failed.
* Earth Elemental: 13. Saved.
----------------------------------------
* Donovan HP: 137/194
* Korvac HP: 75/115
* Bosco HP: 78/135
* Kharius HP: 59/59
* Fire Elemental HP: 13/70
* Earth Elemental HP: 30/70
----------------------------------------
"You dare hurt my friends with your cold breath", Kharius said with a scowl. "I'll make you regret it".
Kharius, then, underwent another shapeshifting, growing yet again in size but now into an elongated dragon of blue-gray skin with metallic silver flecks and a pair of whiskers on its snout.
"Kharius turned into Steamburn!", Bosco exclaimed.
"Are you ready, white dragon? This is what a real dragon's breath feels like!", Kharius said, opening his mouth as a cloud of scalding vapor was violently expelled.
----------------------------------------
Kharius uses breath weapon. Deals 10d6+9: 45.
----------------------------------------
The white dragon, once struck by the cloud of vapor, stopped in its tracks. Its leathery hide was charred, its wings scorched and its nostrils and insides burned. Its gaze, once filled with rage, dimmed until its luster faded away and it fell to the ground, raising an enormous amount of icy dust.
----------------------------------------
The party has emerged victorious, defeating the White Dragon. Each member has earned a total of 100.000 XP for the defeated monster in this encounter.
* Donovan Stride has accumulated 1.571.350 + 100.000 = 1.671.350 XP.
* Korvac the Blessed has accumulated 1.516.350 + 100.000 = 1.616.350 XP.
* Bosco Tumblefoot has accumulated 1.521.450 + 100.000 = 1.621.450 XP.
* Kharius Bloodmoon has accumulated 1.565.450 + 100.000 = 1.665.450 XP.
* Kharius has advanced from level 22 to level 23.
* Kharius's HP increased by 4 (max 63).
* Kharius has learned the spells Cantrip (1st Arcane Level), Continual Light (2nd Arcane Level), Gust of Wind (3rd Arcane Level), Teleport (5th Arcane Level), Phase Door (7th Arcane Level) and Permanency (8th Arcane Level).
***
"That was incredible", Donovan remarked. "I was already impressed at you turning into a giant, but then you went further beyond!".
"Kharius is awesome, I keep telling you!", Bosco said, hugging his half-elf comrade, even before the spell wear off and he turns back to his normal form.
"His 'Steamburn' breath melted the ice covering this cave", Korvac remarked. "Now we can get to the treasure".
"Our greatest treasure is this", Kharius said, holding his newly-enchanted Frost Brand.
----------------------------------------
Kharius has successfully enchanted a Frost Brand +4 (+7 against fire creatures). Kharius earns 50.000 XP.
Frost Brand: This sword always provides a +4 bonus. The +7 bonus takes effect against creatures that use fire or live in fiery environments. The weapon does not shed any light, except when the air temperature is below 0 degrees F. It does give special benefits against fire, for its wielder is protected as if he were wearing a ring of fire resistance as long as he keeps the sword with him. The frost brand sword also has a 100% chance of extinguishing any fire into which its blade is thrust or held against. This power extends to a 10-foot radius—including wall of fire, fireball, meteor swarm, flame strike or other fire-based spells - but not dragon breath weapons. Once a day, if held up in the air, the sword can call forth an Ice Storm, dealing 4d10 damage to all affected - no saving throw allowed. This sword has a good alignment and cannot be wielded by evil beings. Any evil being that touches the sword suffers 4d10 Positive Energy damage - a saving throw vs. spell can reduce damage by half.
----------------------------------------
"So that sword has a +4 bonus, huh?", Megalomagna muttered to itself. "I don't like that".
"Look at this hoard!", Bosco exclaimed. "And this huge chest must have lots of g–", he tried to say but was interrupted.
"Careful there, hobbit, that thing's not a chest", Megalomagna alerted, but it was too late. A pseudopod lashed at him with great strength and held him fast while crushing him.
----------------------------------------
Bosco suffers 3d4: 8 damage.
* Bosco HP: 70/135
----------------------------------------
"A mimic!", Korvac exclaimed.
"This thing is all gluey, I can't let go", Bosco yelled.
"So the dragon left us a surprise", Donovan said, calmly unsheathing Megalomagna.
"Good chance for me to test my new sword!", Kharius said as they charged towards the chest-like creature.
----------------------------------------
Killer Mimic
* 10 HD
* HP: 60
* AC: 7
* THAC0 11
* Dmg: 3d4
----------------------------------------
Initiative:
* Party: 8
* Mimic: 10
----------------------------------------
Mimic attacks Bosco. Rolled 1. Missed.
Kharius attacks. Rolled 20. Hit for 1d8+4: 5.
Donovan attacks. Rolled 7, 6. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 11, 7.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 3. Hit for 2d6+3: 8.
* Mimic HP: 29/60
Bosco will attempt an open doors roll to break free. Rolled 8. Failed.
----------------------------------------
"This damn glue is too strong. I'm stuck!", Bosco screamed.
"Steady, Bosco!", Donovan rallied. "We'll deal with the creature!".
----------------------------------------
Mimic attacks Bosco. Rolled 14. Hit for 3d4: 8 damage.
* Bosco HP: 62/135
Kharius attacks. Rolled 17. Hit for 1d8+4: 8.
Donovan attacks. Rolled 5, 16. Two hits for 1d8+5 each: 11, 10.
Korvac attacks. Rolled 4. Hit for 2d6+3: 6.
* Mimic HP: -8/60
----------------------------------------
With a shrill scream, the mimic melts and reveals what it really is: a disgusting monstrosity that can alter its outer shape to protect its internal organs and attract prey.
----------------------------------------
The party has emerged victorious, defeating the Killer Mimic. Each member has earned a total of 3.000 XP for the defeated monster in this encounter.
* Donovan Stride has accumulated 1.671.350 + 3.000 = 1.674.350 XP.
* Korvac the Blessed has accumulated 1.616.350 + 3.000 = 1.619.350 XP.
* Bosco Tumblefoot has accumulated 1.621.450 + 3.000 = 1.624.450 XP.
* Kharius Bloodmoon has accumulated 1.715.450 + 3.000 = 1.718.450 XP.
***
"Please tell me this was the last one", Bosco said, falling to his knees, exhausted.
“I don't know, was it, Me-ga-lo-magna?”, Donovan asked the sword, punctuating every syllable of its name.
“What? Are you blaming me now? Try asking me BEFORE you go touching any chests!”, the sword retorted.
“Hmpf. I won’t waste my time arguing when there’s this much treasure for us to get”, Bosco replied.
----------------------------------------
The following items have been found in the white dragon's hoard:
* 4.000 copper coins
* 8.000 silver coins
* 3.000 gold coins
* 1.400 platinum coins
* 11 diamonds
* A ship on a bottle
* A set of silver forks
* A wand
* A girdle
* A book
* A scroll
* 5 flasks
***
Then, the sound of an egg hatching could be heard.
“O-oh”, Megalomagna said. “I think there’s a white dragon coming fresh out of the oven”.
“It’s hatching!”, Donovan exclaimed. “A baby dragon!”.
“And we killed its mother”, Kharius said, with sorrow in his voice.
“White dragons don’t care much about their children”, Korvac said. “They learn how to fend for themselves basically since birth”.
“Yes, but what are we gonna do about this one?”, Bosco said, as the newborn cutely growled at him and spit ice on his face.
Then, Bosco’s face was hit with a snowball.
"Ouch!", he exclaimed. "What was that?".
“WE HAVE VISITORS!”, Megalomagna shouted uselessly, as the visitor was obvious.
“Another dragon?”, Donovan shouted as he witnessed a beautiful figure of a creature with luminescent scales that shined almost magically in contact with the moonlight.
“Greetings, adventurers!”, the dragon said, throwing more snowballs at everyone’s face.
“Stop with that!”, Bosco said, his face red and full of snow.
“You did good”, the dragon said. “This white dragon was causing all sorts of trouble around the neighborhood. It was even planning on coming after me, can you imagine?”.
“What kind of dragon are you?”, Kharius asked, sheathing his Frost Brand. “You seem friendly”.
“Humanoid races call me a crystal dragon. But my real name is Ædelstendraach”.
“What a difficult name!”, Bosco remarked. “Ædelstendraach, Ædelstendraach”.
“An honor to meet you, Ædelstendraach”, Kharius said, ignoring the fact that Bosco was embarrassing himself.
“So…what are you going to do with that hatchling?”, Ædelstendraach asked.
“We…don’t know”, Kharius said as he exchanged glances with the Party.
----------------------------------------
Ædelstendraach casts Mass Suggestion. No saving throw allowed.
----------------------------------------
“It would be a good idea of you to let me raise this hatchling. I’m a good parent and I can teach him to be nice and friendly, just like me”, the crystal dragon suggested.
“Yes! Yes, it would be a great idea, indeed! Here, you can have it”, Kharius said, as he took the wyrmling from Bosco’s hands and handed him to the crystal dragon.
“T’was a pleasure to meet you, good adventurers”, Ædelstendraach Said. “Take these as a token of gratitude”, the dragon said as it threw more snowballs at their faces, chuckling mischievously as it departed with the baby white dragon in tow.
“Huh…you guys do know you have been charmed, right?”, Megalomagna said as the crystal dragon flapped its wings and flew away.
“We do. But it’s alright. That dragon was the real deal”, Kharius said.
“I guarantee it”, Korvac said, holding his holy symbol, suggesting that he had cast a True Seeing spell even though a suggestion spell was in effect.
“Well, maybe you guys are not completely useless, after all”, Megalomagna said.
“YOU were useless this time, Megalomongrel!”, Donovan admonished. “Thankfully, Kharius has many cards up his sleeve and your powers were not necessary”.
“Well, you can’t tell the future”, Megalomagna retorted. “An army of remorhazes might appear at any second, and then we’ll see who’s gonna beg for who’s help…”.
Suddenly, the ground started to shake.
“Are you serious? Is there an army of remorhazes below us right now?”, Donovan asked, worried.
“I don’t know. Could be…who knows?”, the sword replied.
“Damn it”, Donovan vented. “We need to get out of here! Korvac!”.
“On it”, Korvac said and began chanting a spell.
----------------------------------------
Korvac casts Word of Recall.
----------------------------------------
In a flash, the Party was transported from the white dragon’s lair. But the place they arrived was different from where Korvac expected to be. Instead of being transported to Korvac’s sanctuary, they were inexplicably inside Elara’s tavern, and their sudden appearance startled everyone in there except for the owner herself, who seemed to be expecting them.
“Greetings”, Elara said, smirking.
"But...what...how?", Korvac said, confused.
"I would never imagine your sanctuary would actually be a tavern, Korvac", Donovan joked.
"It's not!", Korvac exclaimed, embarrassed. "Something tampered with my spell...again".
"Or someone", Kharius said, staring at Elara.
"I couldn't help placing a little charm on you. You are celebrities here! Everyone wanted to see you again", Elara said, pointing to the tables where people raised their mugs.
"Well...now that we're here, I could stay for a beer or two", Bosco said, making himself at home.
Donovan sighed.
"Very well. This has been a long trip, so we better stay for the night. Any rooms available?", Donovan asked Elara.
"For heroes like you?", Elara asked, raising her eyebrows. "We would kick any other guests to make room for you".
"That's nice of you, Elara", Donovan said. "But don't treat us with privilege, okay? We adventurers are not used to special treatment".
Her expression turned from a light smile to a serious stare.
"All right. We'll treat you as the adventurers that you are", she said, stern.
After spending the night at the tavern's inn, the Party prepared to leave.
"We'll miss you, adventurers", Elara said. "Please come again".
"Yeah, maybe", Donovan said, scratching his head. "Maybe during summer".
As they reached for the door, Elara called.
"Donovan".
"Yes?", he replied. Before he could turn, a magnificent ice sculpture of a woman kissed him in the cheek and dropped something in his hand.
"Keep me posted, will you?", she said, waving him goodbye.
***
Coming out of the tavern, Donovan was still stunned at what happened. Was Elara really fond of him? And what about that stone? He decided to show it to Korvac.
"It's a Telepathy Stone", Korvac said. "It's linked to another stone; the person holding it can send you telepathic messages".
"By the gods", Donovan said, blushing. "I told you wizards were a handful".
***
----------------------------------------
PARTY STATS – QUEST END
----------------------------------------
DONOVAN STRIDE (Warrior/Human) - LVL 24
* Strength: 16
* Dexterity: 13
* Constitution: 15
* Intelligence: 9
* Wisdom: 10
* Charisma: 10
* HP: 194
* TAC0: 2
* AC: -3 (Gold Dragon Scale Mail / Shield +2)
* Attack dmg: 1d8+5, +7 against spellcasters – attacks twice per round
* XP: 1.674.350
ITEMS:
* Amulet versus Undead (8th level)
* Gold Dragon Scale Mail (AC -1)
* Shield +2
* Manual of Gainful Exercise
----------------------------------------
KORVAC THE BLESSED (Cleric/Human) - LVL 23
* Strength: 12
* Dexterity: 10
* Constitution: 13
* Intelligence: 10
* Wisdom: 18
* Charisma: 14
* HP: 115
* TAC0: 5
* AC: 3 (Chain Mail +2)
* Attack dmg: 2d6+3 (flail +3)
* XP: 1.619.350
SPELLS:
* 1st circle: Cure Light Wounds (7x a day)
* 1st circle: Detect Evil (6x a day)
* 1st circle: Protection from Evil (4x a day)
* 2nd circle: Augury (5x a day)
* 2nd circle: Resist Fire/Resist Cold (5x a day)
* 3rd circle: Dispel Magic (4x a day)
* 3rd circle: Cure Disease (4x a day)
* 3rd circle: Remove Paralysis (4x a day)
* 4th circle: Cure Serious Wounds (5x a day)
* 4th circle: Neutralize Poison (4x a day)
* 4th circle: Divination (2x a day)
* 4th circle: Protection From Evil, 10' (2x a day)
* 5th circle: Cure Critical Wounds (4x a day)
* 5th circle: Raise Dead (3x a day)
* 5th circle: Flame Strike (3x a day)
* 5th circle: Dispel Evil (3x a day)
* 5th circle: True Seeing (2x a day)
* 5th circle: Atonement (1x a day)
* 5th circle: Plane Shift (1x a day)
* 6th circle: Heal (4x a day)
* 6th circle: Conjure Fire Elemental (2x a day)
* 6th circle: Forbiddance (1x a day)
* 6th circle: Blade Barrier (1x a day)
* 6th circle: Word of Recall (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Resurrection (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Restoration (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Holy Word (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Regenerate (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Gate (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Symbol (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Sunray (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Exaction (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Conjure Earth Elemental (1x a day)
* 7th circle: Succor (1x a day)
* 8th circle: Mass Heal (1x a week)
ITEMS:
* Pearl of Wisdom +2
* Ring of Fire Resistance
* Flail +3
* Chain Mail +2
* Incense of Meditation (Priest - 2 pieces)
* Girdle of Dwarvenkind
----------------------------------------
BOSCO TUMBLEFOOT (Thief/Hobbit) - LVL 23
* Strength: 14
* Dexterity: 19
* Constitution: 16
* Intelligence: 12
* Wisdom: 14
* Charisma: 12
* HP: 135
* TAC0: 6
* AC: 2 (cloak of protection +2)
* Attack dmg: 1d12+2, +4 against evil beings
* XP: 1.624.450
ITEMS:
* Sunblade +2, +4 against evil beings
* Cloak of Protection +2
* Slippers of Spider Climbing
* Wand of Fire
* Wand of Frost
* Stone of Controlling Earth Elementals
* Necklace of Missiles
----------------------------------------
KHARIUS BLOODMOON (Wizard/Half-Elf) - LVL 23
* Strength: 10
* Dexterity: 16
* Constitution: 12
* Intelligence: 17
* Wisdom: 13
* Charisma: 14
* HP: 63
* TAC0: 11
* AC: 1 (Elven Chainmail / Cloak of Displacement +2)
* Attack dmg: 1d8+4/+7 (Frost Brand); 1d6+1/+3 (short bow)
* XP: 1.718.450
ITEMS:
* Wand of Magic Missile
* Frost Brand +4, +7 against fire creatures
* Short Bow +1, +3 against evil creatures
* Elven Chainmail
* Cloak of Displacement +2
SPELLS:
* 1st Arcane Level: Magic Missile (6x a day)
* 1st Arcane Level: Detect Magic (5x a day)
* 1st Arcane Level: Burning Hands (4x a day)
* 1st Arcane Level: Cantrip (1x a day)
* 2nd Arcane Level: Levitate (5x a day)
* 2nd Arcane Level: Melf’s Acid Arrow (5x a day)
* 2nd Arcane Level: Knock (1x a day)
* 2nd Arcane Level: Continual Light (1x a day)
* 3rd Arcane Level: Fireball (4x a day)
* 3rd Arcane Level: Lightning Bolt (4x a day)
* 3rd Arcane Level: Haste (3x a day)
* 3rd Arcane Level: Gust of Wind (1x a day)
* 4th Arcane Level: Charm Monster (4x a day)
* 4th Arcane Level: Enchanted Weapon (3x a day)
* 4th Arcane Level: Ice Storm (4x a day)
* 4th Arcane Level: Remove Curse (1x a day)
* 5th Arcane Level: Conjure Elemental (4x a day)
* 5th Arcane Level: Feeblemind (3x a day)
* 5th Arcane Level: Cone of Cold (4x a day)
* 5th Arcane Level: Hold Monster (3x a day)
* 5th Arcane Level: Teleport (1x a day)
* 6th Arcane Level: Chain Lightning (4x a day)
* 6th Arcane Level: Stone to Flesh (2x a day)
* 6th Arcane Level: True Seeing (2x a day)
* 6th Arcane Level: Antimagic Shell (1x a day)
* 6th Arcane Level: Mislead (1x a day)
* 7th Arcane Level: Mordenkainen's Sword (2x a day)
* 7th Arcane Level: Limited Wish (2x a day)
* 7th Arcane Level: Prismatic Spray (2x a day)
* 7th Arcane Level: Phase Door (1x a day)
* 8th Arcane Level: Mind Blank (2x a day)
* 8th Arcane Level: Prismatic Wall (1x a day)
* 8th Arcane Level: Permanency (1x a day)
* 9th Arcane Level: Wish (1x a day)
* 9th Arcane Level: Shape Change (1x a day)
* 9th Arcane Level: Monster Summoning VII (1x a day)
* 9th Arcane Level: Power Word, Kill (1x a day)
* 9th Arcane Level: Imprisonment (1x a day)
* 10th Arcane Level: Monster Summoning VIII (1x a week)
***
LOOT FOR THE ADVENTURE
* Amulet versus Undead - 8th level
* Wand of Frost
* Girdle of Dwarvenkind
* Manual of Gainful Exercise
* Scroll of Protection against Lycanthropes (weretigers)
* Healing Potion
* 2 Extra-Healing potions
* Potion of Water Breathing (four doses)
* Oil of Impact
* 4.000 copper coins
* 8.000 silver coins
* 3.000 gold coins
* 1.400 platinum coins
* 11 diamonds (1.000 gp each)
* A ship on a bottle (500 gp)
* A set of silver forks (500 gp)
***
UPDATED PARTY TREASURE
* 24.000 copper coins
* 35.450 silver coins
* 21.050 gold coins
* 1.700 platinum coins
* Star Emerald (10.000 gp)
* 11 small diamonds (1.000 gp each)
* 1 Diamond (5.000 gp)
* 3 Agates (50 gp each)
* 1 Pearl (500 gp each)
* 7 healing potions (2d4+2 hp healing)
* 3 Extra-Healing potions (3d8+3 each)
* Potion of Poison (throwable)
* 2 Potions of Invulnerability
* Potion of Gaseous Form
* Potion of Water Breathing (four doses)
* Scroll of Fire Protection
* Scroll of Water Protection
* Scroll of Protection against Lycanthropes (weretigers)
* A page from the Testament of Jade
* Oil of Impact
***
ITEM DESCRIPTION:
* Amulet Versus Undead: This prized charm is a specially blessed symbol that enables the wearer to turn undead like a cleric. The amulet appears ordinary, but glows brightly when presented strongly (i.e., as if it were a holy symbol) in the presence of undead. The success of the attempt to turn is determined by the power of the amulet—8th level in this case.
* Wand of Frost: this magical wand can perform three functions that duplicate wizard spells:
* Ice storm: A silvery ray springs forth from the wand and an ice (or sleet) storm occurs up to 60 feet away from the wand holder. This function requires one charge.
* Wall of ice: The silvery ray forms a wall of ice, six inches thick, covering a 600- squarefoot area (10' x 60', 20' x 30', etc.). Its initiative modifier is +2, and it uses one charge.
* Cone of Cold: White crystalline motes spray forth from the wand in a cone with a 60-foot length and a terminal diameter of 20 feet. The initiative modifier is +2, and the effect lasts just one second. The temperature is -100 degrees F., and damage is 6d6, treating all 1s rolled as 2s (6d6, 12-36). The cost is two charges per use. Saving throw vs. wands is applicable. The wand can function once per round, and may be recharged.
* Girdle of Dwarvenkind: This belt lowers the wearers' Charisma score by 1 with respect to nondwarves and their ilk. The girdle causes the wearer to gain one point of Charisma with respect to halflings of the stout sort and with respect to all gnomes as well. Dwarves regard the wearer as if he has Charisma two points higher than before. The girdle enables the wearer to understand, speak, and read dwarvish language. The wearer also gains the racial benefits of dwarvenkind (i.e., +1 Constitution, saving throw bonuses based on total Constitution, 60-foot infravision, and detection/determination of approximate depth underground as described in the Player's Handbook). All bonuses and penalties apply only as long as the individual actually wears the girdle. Benefits such as additional languages and combat bonuses against giant-type-opponents never apply.
* Manual of Gainful Exercise: The metal-bound manual of gainful exercise appears to be an arcane, rare, but nonmagical book. If a detect magic spell is cast upon it, the manual will radiate an aura of magic. Any character who reads the work (24 hours of time over 3-5 days) will know how to increase his Strength by one point—this involves a special dietary regimen and exercises over a one-month period. The book disappears immediately upon completion of its contents. The point of Strength is gained only after the prescribed regimen is followed. The knowledge cannot be articulated or recorded by the reader. The manual will not be useful to any character a second time, nor will more than one character be able to benefit from a single copy.
SCROLLS:
* Protection against Lycanthropes (weretigers): The magical circle from the reading of the scroll extends in a 10-foot radius and moves with the reader. Each scroll protects against 49 Hit Dice of lycanthropes, rounding all hit point pluses down unless they exceed +2. The protection is otherwise similar to that against elementals. The protection from shape-changers spell protects against monsters (except gods and godlike creatures) able to change their form to that of man: dopplegangers, certain dragons, druids, jackalweres, and lycanthropes, for example. The magic lasts for 5d6 rounds.
POTIONS:
* Healing: Heals 2d4+2 hit points.
* 2 Extra-Healing potions: heals 3d8+3 hit points.
* Water Breathing (four doses): This potion allows the character drinking it to breathe normally in liquids that contain suspended oxygen. This ability lasts for one full hour per dose of potion quaffed, with an additional 1d10 rounds.
* Oil of Impact: This oil has beneficial effects on blunt weapons and missiles, both magical and nonmagical. When applied to a blunt weapon such as a club, hammer, or mace, it bestows a +3 bonus to attack rolls and a +6 bonus to damage. The effect lasts 1d4 + 8 rounds per application. One application will treat one weapon. When applied to a blunt missile, such as a hurled hammer, hurled club, sling stone, or bullet, it bestows a +3 bonus to attack rolls and a +3 bonus to damage. The effect last until the missile is used once. One application will treat 4-5 sling stones or two larger weapons. A flask of oil of impact holds 1d3+2 applications.
***
EXPERIENCE TABLE
CLASS
Warrior (Human):
Cleric (Human):
Thief (Hobbit):
Wizard (Half-Elf):
LEVEL 22
600.000 XP
750.000 XP
1.000.000 XP
1.250.000 XP
LEVEL 23
900.000 XP
1.000.000 XP
1.250.000 XP
1.600.000 XP
LEVEL 24
1.400.000 XP
1.750.000 XP
2.000.000 XP
2.300.000 XP
LEVEL 25
2.000.000 XP
2.500.000 XP
3.000.000 XP
3.250.000 XP
LEVEL 26
3.000.000 XP
3.750.000 XP
4.250.000 XP
5.000.000 XP
LEVEL 27
4.500.000 XP
5.500.000 XP
6.000.000 XP
7.000.000 XP
LEVEL 28
7.000.000 XP
8.000.000 XP
9.000.000 XP
10.000.000 XP
LEVEL 29
10.000.000 XP
12.000.000 XP
14.000.000 XP
16.000.000 XP
LEVEL 30
15.000.000 XP
17.000.000 XP
19.000.000 XP
20.000.000 XP