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It is the cusp of a new era.
The young kingdom of Equestria has been conquered by two new rulers, who will soon reshape the very world.
But that is far away in the south.
Meanwhile, up north, the kingdom of Wintersgrasp is a state of grief and chaos.
The old and wise King Ironmane has fallen in battle, his body and ancestral sword lost to the enemy. All that remains of him is his broken and stained crown.
Now a new king must rise. But the throne is contested.
At a young age of just fifteen, the prince Unyielding Anvil has taken the throne.
However his uncle, Ironmane's brother Goldenblood insists the prince is too young to rule, and says he is the only possible successor for now.
Finally, Ironmane's oldest friend and greatest champion, Raging Storm, says neither of the two are suited to rule, and that the king appointed him as the successor before he died. However, without proof, his word weighs nothing.
To settle this account, the Unyielding Anvil has in secret gathered a group of heroes to retrieve the sword - Foerist - from the neighboring kingdom of Icepeak, where Ironmane died.
The party gathers in a secluded room in Castle Wintersgrasp.
A warm fire keeps the room cozy.
The prince has been momentarily delayed, but has sent an emissary to answer any questions in the mean time.
Players, report in and introduce yourselves.
The young kingdom of Equestria has been conquered by two new rulers, who will soon reshape the very world.
But that is far away in the south.
Meanwhile, up north, the kingdom of Wintersgrasp is a state of grief and chaos.
The old and wise King Ironmane has fallen in battle, his body and ancestral sword lost to the enemy. All that remains of him is his broken and stained crown.
Now a new king must rise. But the throne is contested.
At a young age of just fifteen, the prince Unyielding Anvil has taken the throne.
However his uncle, Ironmane's brother Goldenblood insists the prince is too young to rule, and says he is the only possible successor for now.
Finally, Ironmane's oldest friend and greatest champion, Raging Storm, says neither of the two are suited to rule, and that the king appointed him as the successor before he died. However, without proof, his word weighs nothing.
To settle this account, the Unyielding Anvil has in secret gathered a group of heroes to retrieve the sword - Foerist - from the neighboring kingdom of Icepeak, where Ironmane died.
The party gathers in a secluded room in Castle Wintersgrasp.
A warm fire keeps the room cozy.
The prince has been momentarily delayed, but has sent an emissary to answer any questions in the mean time.
Players, report in and introduce yourselves.
>>69570
The emissary shrugs
"This land was claimed in times immemorial by the first of our kings. Ever since, we've held Wintersgrasp for our own. It is not the most comfortable of places, but it is home. And it does have a certain majestic beauty to it, if one looks past the cold."
>>69572
"One gets used to it."
The emissary shrugs
"This land was claimed in times immemorial by the first of our kings. Ever since, we've held Wintersgrasp for our own. It is not the most comfortable of places, but it is home. And it does have a certain majestic beauty to it, if one looks past the cold."
>>69572
"One gets used to it."
>>69585
>>69586
>>69587
"Pride would be my guess. If his bloodline is any indication, then King Wintersgrasp was a proud and stubborn pony. Perhaps he had heard of lands that once belonged to ponies now wasting away long abandoned, and vowed to right that wrong.
Not that he was the only one. King Ironfoe claimed the lands to the east not even a generation later. And many others also claimed lands in the north. Some starved or froze to death. Some still live on, like we do.
The… prince… will be here soon. If there is anything else you'd like to ask me, please do it now."
>>69586
>>69587
"Pride would be my guess. If his bloodline is any indication, then King Wintersgrasp was a proud and stubborn pony. Perhaps he had heard of lands that once belonged to ponies now wasting away long abandoned, and vowed to right that wrong.
Not that he was the only one. King Ironfoe claimed the lands to the east not even a generation later. And many others also claimed lands in the north. Some starved or froze to death. Some still live on, like we do.
The… prince… will be here soon. If there is anything else you'd like to ask me, please do it now."
>>69591
"We subside on trade, and what we can grow here. I am not partial to the fungi, I prefer the frostroot."
>>69592
"The weather here is not like it is in the south. The clouds are harsh and unyielding. Not soft and friendly like in the lands of most ponies. Indeed, both the King and… prince… were known for being strong enough to break a northern cloud. That is, I remember, how the prince got his cutie mark."
"We subside on trade, and what we can grow here. I am not partial to the fungi, I prefer the frostroot."
>>69592
"The weather here is not like it is in the south. The clouds are harsh and unyielding. Not soft and friendly like in the lands of most ponies. Indeed, both the King and… prince… were known for being strong enough to break a northern cloud. That is, I remember, how the prince got his cutie mark."
>>69606
"The royal hoards are vast. Doubly so ever since Sir Dearly Decorated slew the dragon of the glaciers and took his gold for the King."
>>69602
"Our farmers are top no-"
The door is thrown open and a small, rather angry looking pony walks in. He cannot be past his early teens. He is wearing royal garb and a broken crown
"DAMN MY UNCLE AND HIS WAYS. DAMN THEM. DESTINY, YOU ARE EXCUSED."
He takes a seat by the fire as the emissary bows and leaves
"Well. You must be the heroes I had gathered, yes"
"The royal hoards are vast. Doubly so ever since Sir Dearly Decorated slew the dragon of the glaciers and took his gold for the King."
>>69602
"Our farmers are top no-"
The door is thrown open and a small, rather angry looking pony walks in. He cannot be past his early teens. He is wearing royal garb and a broken crown
"DAMN MY UNCLE AND HIS WAYS. DAMN THEM. DESTINY, YOU ARE EXCUSED."
He takes a seat by the fire as the emissary bows and leaves
"Well. You must be the heroes I had gathered, yes"
>>69619
>>69621
>>69623
"Good, good, great."
>>69624
"Yeah ha ha, you're a proper comedian."
>>69622
"Destiny didn't fill you in? Bah, he's worthless. A relic. My father was a great pony, but not all his choices were smart. Once I am king proper, those will change.
So, lets get down to business. I assume you already know my father, King Ironmane, is dead. He lead an assault on the kingdom of Ironfoe after king Deep Rock insulted and threatened our lands. Father always was a true leader, leading from the front and not the rear.
But alas, he failed. His body and out bloodline's sword - Foerist - were lost. Captain Raging Storm, father's closest friend, returned as one of the only survivors, carrying only this broken crown. Now my uncle refuses to let me even repair it, saying I have no right to rule. And this is where you come in.
I will pay you a hefty reward, in gold, gems, land, titles… companions if you so desire, to go and return Foerist to me. With it, I can truly prove my rightful place on the throne of Wintersgrasp.
Sound good so far?"
>>69621
>>69623
"Good, good, great."
>>69624
"Yeah ha ha, you're a proper comedian."
>>69622
"Destiny didn't fill you in? Bah, he's worthless. A relic. My father was a great pony, but not all his choices were smart. Once I am king proper, those will change.
So, lets get down to business. I assume you already know my father, King Ironmane, is dead. He lead an assault on the kingdom of Ironfoe after king Deep Rock insulted and threatened our lands. Father always was a true leader, leading from the front and not the rear.
But alas, he failed. His body and out bloodline's sword - Foerist - were lost. Captain Raging Storm, father's closest friend, returned as one of the only survivors, carrying only this broken crown. Now my uncle refuses to let me even repair it, saying I have no right to rule. And this is where you come in.
I will pay you a hefty reward, in gold, gems, land, titles… companions if you so desire, to go and return Foerist to me. With it, I can truly prove my rightful place on the throne of Wintersgrasp.
Sound good so far?"
>>69634
"Uncle Goldenblood insists I'm too young to be king. But I see through his lies. He simply wants his brother's throne…"
>>69636
"Uncle is still family to me. And Raging Storm is a mighty warrior. Besides. I would lose the support of the people. No, I must have proof of my true right, lest I wish to risk an uprising."
>>69632
>>69633
>>69635
>>69637
"I don't trust my scheming uncle at all, and Raging Storm was conveniently the last to see my father alive and tell the tale. I fear he may be a traitor or worse.
As such I need to keep myself safe here. You will leave for Ironfoe Castle, and find where King Deep Rock took the sword.
Then get it back and return it to me. If you can find my father's body, all the better. I wish to bury him in a way befitting his might.
I can provide you with some basic equipment and supplies, but that is all. I need to keep this low profile, lets word spreads and endangers me."
"Uncle Goldenblood insists I'm too young to be king. But I see through his lies. He simply wants his brother's throne…"
>>69636
"Uncle is still family to me. And Raging Storm is a mighty warrior. Besides. I would lose the support of the people. No, I must have proof of my true right, lest I wish to risk an uprising."
>>69632
>>69633
>>69635
>>69637
"I don't trust my scheming uncle at all, and Raging Storm was conveniently the last to see my father alive and tell the tale. I fear he may be a traitor or worse.
As such I need to keep myself safe here. You will leave for Ironfoe Castle, and find where King Deep Rock took the sword.
Then get it back and return it to me. If you can find my father's body, all the better. I wish to bury him in a way befitting his might.
I can provide you with some basic equipment and supplies, but that is all. I need to keep this low profile, lets word spreads and endangers me."
>>69645
"Tonight, under the cover of darkness. You should reach Ironfoe Castle by dawnlight if you make haste."
>>69646
"Still, without the blade, there would only be more contenders. Captains, nobles, huffy peasants who want democracy…"
>>69647
"As I said, go by night, and with haste, you will arrive by dawn."
>>69648
>>69649
>>69650
"Ask Destiny, he can take you to storage. There is a pass my grandfather mined into the mountains. It skips most of the harsh terrain, yet comes out in a spot that is impossible to find without knowing of it. Use it, and you will be there by morning."
"Tonight, under the cover of darkness. You should reach Ironfoe Castle by dawnlight if you make haste."
>>69646
"Still, without the blade, there would only be more contenders. Captains, nobles, huffy peasants who want democracy…"
>>69647
"As I said, go by night, and with haste, you will arrive by dawn."
>>69648
>>69649
>>69650
"Ask Destiny, he can take you to storage. There is a pass my grandfather mined into the mountains. It skips most of the harsh terrain, yet comes out in a spot that is impossible to find without knowing of it. Use it, and you will be there by morning."
>>69677
>>69678
He is focused on the sun, ignoring the world.
>>69678
You lift your hoof up high and hold it for a while. After a moment of silence, a bolt of lightning manifests indoors… somehow… striking you in the hoof, and then manifesting into a gleaming +1 Lightning Longsword.
>>69681
He snaps out of it
"Oh. You're done with… the prince. Certainly. Storage is down below. Please follow me."
He gives a sad look to the sun as he starts walking towards a stairwell
>>69678
He is focused on the sun, ignoring the world.
>>69678
You lift your hoof up high and hold it for a while. After a moment of silence, a bolt of lightning manifests indoors… somehow… striking you in the hoof, and then manifesting into a gleaming +1 Lightning Longsword.
>>69681
He snaps out of it
"Oh. You're done with… the prince. Certainly. Storage is down below. Please follow me."
He gives a sad look to the sun as he starts walking towards a stairwell
>>69687
>>69688
>>69689
>>69690
"There are three lights in this world of ours. Sunlight by day, moonlight by night. I do not get to see enough of either, so I enjoy what I can. My duties are to this throne, and I do all I can to fulfill them. As such, it is with a heavy heart I assist the prince. I feel like I am betraying the throne in doing so."
>>69688
>>69689
>>69690
"There are three lights in this world of ours. Sunlight by day, moonlight by night. I do not get to see enough of either, so I enjoy what I can. My duties are to this throne, and I do all I can to fulfill them. As such, it is with a heavy heart I assist the prince. I feel like I am betraying the throne in doing so."
>>69699
"It is not his age. It is his stubborn head and fiery heart. Both great things to have on their own. A horrible thing when brought together. He will lead this kingdom to doom and nothing less."
>>69700
"By bis blood, he is. But as for what is best for the nation, I can only say no."
>>69702
"Three. As for the prince, he hungers for glory in war. I've seen how he idolizes his father's victories without truly understanding them. He is still a child with the mind of a child. He thinks himself invincible."
>>69703
"The third-" he taps his chest "is the light of joy within our hearts. The only light that is always present, yet also the only one that can die out forever… As for serving the throne, I cam bound in duty to the prince. I try to keep him out of trouble, but once he is king… there is little I can do."
>>69704
"My duty is to the prince, my heart to the throne."
>>69706
"I admit I would much rather see Goldenblood rule. He is older. Wiser. Less warlike. And still royal, unlike Raging Storm…"
You are almost to the supply room. There are no guards around here.
"It is not his age. It is his stubborn head and fiery heart. Both great things to have on their own. A horrible thing when brought together. He will lead this kingdom to doom and nothing less."
>>69700
"By bis blood, he is. But as for what is best for the nation, I can only say no."
>>69702
"Three. As for the prince, he hungers for glory in war. I've seen how he idolizes his father's victories without truly understanding them. He is still a child with the mind of a child. He thinks himself invincible."
>>69703
"The third-" he taps his chest "is the light of joy within our hearts. The only light that is always present, yet also the only one that can die out forever… As for serving the throne, I cam bound in duty to the prince. I try to keep him out of trouble, but once he is king… there is little I can do."
>>69704
"My duty is to the prince, my heart to the throne."
>>69706
"I admit I would much rather see Goldenblood rule. He is older. Wiser. Less warlike. And still royal, unlike Raging Storm…"
You are almost to the supply room. There are no guards around here.
>>69733
"Certainly. The storage room is right over there. Take anything you need. The clothes are very warm, and there should be other outdoors supplies. Sadly, no weapons or armour. Those are up in the armoury."
>>69734
"Goldenblood resides in the west wing. I can take you all there to meet him once we are done here."
"Certainly. The storage room is right over there. Take anything you need. The clothes are very warm, and there should be other outdoors supplies. Sadly, no weapons or armour. Those are up in the armoury."
>>69734
"Goldenblood resides in the west wing. I can take you all there to meet him once we are done here."
>>69738
"King Ironmane… I'd imagine he'd say Raging Storm should rule until the prince was of age. He never declared a heir officially or even candidly, but Raging Storm himself insists the King's final wish was for him to take the throne. But I don't trust him. He is an old war hero. A Captain, not a King. He lacks political savvy and understanding of life outside war."
>>69739
It is a bit heavy, and lined with fur. Very warm and cozy though.
>>69741
You found what you needed. Top quality, courtesy of the king.
>>69742
"I fear that would get out of hand. If we establish a temporary rule, who is to say they won't usurp permanent power?"
>>69743
"We must ask for permission from.. the prince.. for that"
>>69745
>>69746
>>69747
Big packages to carry alone. But all so very regal and comfy~
"Perhaps we are ready to go now?"
"King Ironmane… I'd imagine he'd say Raging Storm should rule until the prince was of age. He never declared a heir officially or even candidly, but Raging Storm himself insists the King's final wish was for him to take the throne. But I don't trust him. He is an old war hero. A Captain, not a King. He lacks political savvy and understanding of life outside war."
>>69739
It is a bit heavy, and lined with fur. Very warm and cozy though.
>>69741
You found what you needed. Top quality, courtesy of the king.
>>69742
"I fear that would get out of hand. If we establish a temporary rule, who is to say they won't usurp permanent power?"
>>69743
"We must ask for permission from.. the prince.. for that"
>>69745
>>69746
>>69747
Big packages to carry alone. But all so very regal and comfy~
"Perhaps we are ready to go now?"
>>69753
"A kingdom founded by a proud bloodline. It would be a great shame for them to admit they are so mortal as something like that may happen."
>>69756
>>69757
>>69758
"Shall I take you to meet Goldenblood then? He might have some more information related to your mission if you are willing to meet him."
"A kingdom founded by a proud bloodline. It would be a great shame for them to admit they are so mortal as something like that may happen."
>>69756
>>69757
>>69758
"Shall I take you to meet Goldenblood then? He might have some more information related to your mission if you are willing to meet him."
>>69762
>>69764
>>69765
>>69766
>>69767
>>69768
"Very well. With me, please."
Destiny leads you back upstairs, then stops to smile at the sun for a moment before continuing. As he leads you through the castle, you see old suits of armour, paintings of past kings, trophies of war and statues dedicated to great heroes line the hallways.
Soon you make it to the tower Goldenblood resides in.
Destiny knocks on the door
"M'lord? May I?"
After a moment of silence, the door opens.
Looking in, you notice Goldenblood is a unicorn, unlike the pegasus Prince.
"Lord Goldenblood, I present to you the heroes I spoke of."
Destiny then sits down by the window.
>>69764
>>69765
>>69766
>>69767
>>69768
"Very well. With me, please."
Destiny leads you back upstairs, then stops to smile at the sun for a moment before continuing. As he leads you through the castle, you see old suits of armour, paintings of past kings, trophies of war and statues dedicated to great heroes line the hallways.
Soon you make it to the tower Goldenblood resides in.
Destiny knocks on the door
"M'lord? May I?"
After a moment of silence, the door opens.
Looking in, you notice Goldenblood is a unicorn, unlike the pegasus Prince.
"Lord Goldenblood, I present to you the heroes I spoke of."
Destiny then sits down by the window.
>>69785
>>69786
"It… is a personal thing. You see my wife.. dearest Lady Snowflake… was kidnapped by who I can only assume was some of King Deep Rock's servants. The guards could not save her. And now I do not know if she is alive or dead… All I know is she is probably somewhere in Castle Ironfoe… Oh Snowlafke… what I'd give to get you back…"
He wipes away a tear
"But that does not really concern you.. does it?"
>>69787
"Ah. Foerist. Forged for my great grandfather by the Forgemaster of Bailey. A magnificent weapon indeed, having kept a keen edge for centuries now. Ever since the founding of this kingdom, it has been a symbol of the king, even more so than the crown my nephew now wears… Sadly, it was lost with my brother's body when he and Raging Storm assaulted Castle Ironfoe."
>>69788
"No no, please… there is no need."
>>69786
"It… is a personal thing. You see my wife.. dearest Lady Snowflake… was kidnapped by who I can only assume was some of King Deep Rock's servants. The guards could not save her. And now I do not know if she is alive or dead… All I know is she is probably somewhere in Castle Ironfoe… Oh Snowlafke… what I'd give to get you back…"
He wipes away a tear
"But that does not really concern you.. does it?"
>>69787
"Ah. Foerist. Forged for my great grandfather by the Forgemaster of Bailey. A magnificent weapon indeed, having kept a keen edge for centuries now. Ever since the founding of this kingdom, it has been a symbol of the king, even more so than the crown my nephew now wears… Sadly, it was lost with my brother's body when he and Raging Storm assaulted Castle Ironfoe."
>>69788
"No no, please… there is no need."
>>69801
"If that is the case then please. Please save her and bring her back. I will owe you anything I can give. Were I king I would promise you land and riches to go with it."
>>69802
"Thank you. It is not much, but it makes me feel better."
>>69804
You peer deep into his sorrow filled heart. It is not black, nor is it even all that dark. He is sad and conflicted but certainly not in any way evil.
>>69809
"Oh thank you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will give you all the help I can on your mission. Please. Go to the armoury and pick out something nice. All of you."
He floats the key to Destiny
"Is there any other way I can help you?"
"If that is the case then please. Please save her and bring her back. I will owe you anything I can give. Were I king I would promise you land and riches to go with it."
>>69802
"Thank you. It is not much, but it makes me feel better."
>>69804
You peer deep into his sorrow filled heart. It is not black, nor is it even all that dark. He is sad and conflicted but certainly not in any way evil.
>>69809
"Oh thank you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will give you all the help I can on your mission. Please. Go to the armoury and pick out something nice. All of you."
He floats the key to Destiny
"Is there any other way I can help you?"
>>69820
"Ironfoe? Only that it is almost as old as Wintersgrasp, built by Kign Ironfoe centuries ago. It is now ruled by King Deep Rock, who harbored notable enmity against my brother."
>>69824
>>69825
>>69826
Destiny unlocks the armoury
"Please. Browse at your leisure. I know it is not much, but it is all high quality."
>You may take a +1 weapon from the armoury, or any normal suit of armour. There is one suit of Crystal Medium Armour.
>>69827
"What do you mean? I don't want the throne. Indeed the idea of being king frightens me to the bone. I am not a soldier like my brother. I am a negotiator and a diplomat. And look where that has gotten me… I would be a lousy king…"
"Ironfoe? Only that it is almost as old as Wintersgrasp, built by Kign Ironfoe centuries ago. It is now ruled by King Deep Rock, who harbored notable enmity against my brother."
>>69824
>>69825
>>69826
Destiny unlocks the armoury
"Please. Browse at your leisure. I know it is not much, but it is all high quality."
>You may take a +1 weapon from the armoury, or any normal suit of armour. There is one suit of Crystal Medium Armour.
>>69827
"What do you mean? I don't want the throne. Indeed the idea of being king frightens me to the bone. I am not a soldier like my brother. I am a negotiator and a diplomat. And look where that has gotten me… I would be a lousy king…"
>>69832
"I… I don't know… My nephew is still young… I'd vouch for Raging Storm but he isn't royal. Oh it is so hard to think with a broken heart…"
>>69834
>>69838
>>69835
And so you did.
Well done one and all. Truly a noteworthy shopping spree.
Destiny asks to come back to the tower once you are done, and leaves to check on the others.
"I… I don't know… My nephew is still young… I'd vouch for Raging Storm but he isn't royal. Oh it is so hard to think with a broken heart…"
>>69834
>>69838
>>69835
And so you did.
Well done one and all. Truly a noteworthy shopping spree.
Destiny asks to come back to the tower once you are done, and leaves to check on the others.
>>69853
"I…"
He turns to look out the window
"I would rule without war. Without conquest and bloodshed. I know I'd be betraying the so called traditions of out land… but they are traditions passed down by warlike pegasi. A unicorn king should be a wise leader… not a strong one…"
He turns back
"I won't tell you to bring me the sword… but remember what I said, and make the right decision on your own."
"I…"
He turns to look out the window
"I would rule without war. Without conquest and bloodshed. I know I'd be betraying the so called traditions of out land… but they are traditions passed down by warlike pegasi. A unicorn king should be a wise leader… not a strong one…"
He turns back
"I won't tell you to bring me the sword… but remember what I said, and make the right decision on your own."
AND SO OUR CHAMPIONS WERE LEFT TO PONDER THEIR NEXT MOVE
THE SUN SLOWLY SET IN THE WEST
THOUGH DIVIDED BY MUCH DISTANCE, MANY EYES SAW IT HAPPEN, AND FELT VERY LONELY IN THIS COLD LAND
WILL THEY MEET RAGING STORM?
WHAT SECRETS DOES CASTLE IRONFOE HOLD?
AND WHO WILL BECOME KING?
FIND OUT NEXT TIME ON NORTHLANDS
THE SUN SLOWLY SET IN THE WEST
THOUGH DIVIDED BY MUCH DISTANCE, MANY EYES SAW IT HAPPEN, AND FELT VERY LONELY IN THIS COLD LAND
WILL THEY MEET RAGING STORM?
WHAT SECRETS DOES CASTLE IRONFOE HOLD?
AND WHO WILL BECOME KING?
FIND OUT NEXT TIME ON NORTHLANDS
Sun and moon, hear me this twilight. Let for a moment all three lights unite, and may they all shine together brighter than bright.
Sun, moon and heart, just tell me one thing - who in this land deserves to be king?
The party was about to leave Castle Wintersgrasp to head to the secret passage or to meet Raging Storm.
Destiny is with them.
Players, report in.
Sun, moon and heart, just tell me one thing - who in this land deserves to be king?
The party was about to leave Castle Wintersgrasp to head to the secret passage or to meet Raging Storm.
Destiny is with them.
Players, report in.
>>71039
"I have never been to castle Ironfoe, but I know it sits carved mostly into a large mountain on the edge of a frozen lake. Some say it runs deep into the mountain. Then, some say the king shits gold.
Deep Rock is a direct descendant of King Ironfoe, and our two kingdoms have been at war since they were first founded, mostly over contested land and resources. It has become a question of honour by now to keep fighting. King Ironmane attacked the castle in retaliation to a raid where they stole much food and gold from us.
Raging Storm was with him. He will know more of the interior of the castle. Be wary of him though, he is an old soldiers, and understands little of anything not related to war."
>>71040
>>71041
"He lives in the nearby barracks."
"I have never been to castle Ironfoe, but I know it sits carved mostly into a large mountain on the edge of a frozen lake. Some say it runs deep into the mountain. Then, some say the king shits gold.
Deep Rock is a direct descendant of King Ironfoe, and our two kingdoms have been at war since they were first founded, mostly over contested land and resources. It has become a question of honour by now to keep fighting. King Ironmane attacked the castle in retaliation to a raid where they stole much food and gold from us.
Raging Storm was with him. He will know more of the interior of the castle. Be wary of him though, he is an old soldiers, and understands little of anything not related to war."
>>71040
>>71041
"He lives in the nearby barracks."
>>71053
>>71054
You head to the barracks, leaving the others and Destiny behind.
It is not hard to find Raging Storm. He is very large, ever for an Earth Pony, and is currently fighting a training dummy in the yard.
>>71055
The tunnel entrance is tiny, and as you look around, you realize there are several sniper nests nearby, as well as a loose landslide above the entrance which could easily be triggered. Invading through here would be suicide.
>>71054
You head to the barracks, leaving the others and Destiny behind.
It is not hard to find Raging Storm. He is very large, ever for an Earth Pony, and is currently fighting a training dummy in the yard.
>>71055
The tunnel entrance is tiny, and as you look around, you realize there are several sniper nests nearby, as well as a loose landslide above the entrance which could easily be triggered. Invading through here would be suicide.
>>71059
He slams into the dummy, breaking it in half, then turns to you. The muscles on his neck ripple a little, and his heavy armour makes his step sound even heavier than it is.
"Yes? Who are you and what is your business?"
>>71060
[…the best treatment for burns is swift application of cold. The severity of the burn can be told by observing the affected area. If the skin and flesh is charred, then the burn is serious, and may require medication if not amputation…]
He slams into the dummy, breaking it in half, then turns to you. The muscles on his neck ripple a little, and his heavy armour makes his step sound even heavier than it is.
"Yes? Who are you and what is your business?"
>>71060
[…the best treatment for burns is swift application of cold. The severity of the burn can be told by observing the affected area. If the skin and flesh is charred, then the burn is serious, and may require medication if not amputation…]
>>71079
The massive knight straightens himself. You can see decades of scars on his face and neck, some of them leaving bald spots on his beard and mane.
"The right thing… I have not used tha' excuse in ages. Well, no matter. Ye seem adamant about this, so I guess I might as well tell ya how yer gonna die out there. Ironfoe is big. Much bigger than ya'd think. Goes deep inta the mountain. Way deep. So deep the air becomes hot like fire. The guards are plentiful but poorly trained, save fer the ones with the black crests. Thems the elite. Tough buggers the lot. Also, they have these strange things down there. Like statues. That move.
But I doubt you'd get ta see any of that before she picks ya off."
The massive knight straightens himself. You can see decades of scars on his face and neck, some of them leaving bald spots on his beard and mane.
"The right thing… I have not used tha' excuse in ages. Well, no matter. Ye seem adamant about this, so I guess I might as well tell ya how yer gonna die out there. Ironfoe is big. Much bigger than ya'd think. Goes deep inta the mountain. Way deep. So deep the air becomes hot like fire. The guards are plentiful but poorly trained, save fer the ones with the black crests. Thems the elite. Tough buggers the lot. Also, they have these strange things down there. Like statues. That move.
But I doubt you'd get ta see any of that before she picks ya off."
>>71082
"I have much fear and doubt in my heart for it. I fear you will choose a poor king, and that this kingdom will fall. Every day and night I consult the lights for guidance. But the only answer I get does not satisfy me…"
>>71083
"The dark hunter. The song in the shadows. The arrow in the dark. King Ironfoe's assassin whore, Shadowsong - the one who fell King Ironmane…"
Raging Storm bites back a tear as me mentions the king, and turns his head away for a moment as if to avoid looking you in the eye.
"I have much fear and doubt in my heart for it. I fear you will choose a poor king, and that this kingdom will fall. Every day and night I consult the lights for guidance. But the only answer I get does not satisfy me…"
>>71083
"The dark hunter. The song in the shadows. The arrow in the dark. King Ironfoe's assassin whore, Shadowsong - the one who fell King Ironmane…"
Raging Storm bites back a tear as me mentions the king, and turns his head away for a moment as if to avoid looking you in the eye.
>>71101
>>71102
>>71103
"Ah yes, the fabled Shadow Song. I have heard tales of her. Some say she is a necromancer, but above all, she is a silent tracker and hunter. Nearly impossible to spot, and deadly accurate with her bow."
>>71104
Destiny takes a step back
"SHE DID IT? Well… I guess I shouldn't be surprised but… Oh no… Oh no…
Heroes. It might be best I come with you."
>>71102
>>71103
"Ah yes, the fabled Shadow Song. I have heard tales of her. Some say she is a necromancer, but above all, she is a silent tracker and hunter. Nearly impossible to spot, and deadly accurate with her bow."
>>71104
Destiny takes a step back
"SHE DID IT? Well… I guess I shouldn't be surprised but… Oh no… Oh no…
Heroes. It might be best I come with you."
>>71108
"I am a scholar above all, yes, but I can still hold my own in a fight. I think."
>>71109
"The… prince… sent you on this mission, and I answer to him. he will guess where I went, and can probably manage a few days on his own."
>>71110
"If some things I have heard are true, there may be some… bad surprises waiting for us."
>>71113
"I see you don't trust my skills. Or perhaps you simply don't trust me…"
"Very well. If you don't want me along, I will stay here and pray for your safe return."
"I am a scholar above all, yes, but I can still hold my own in a fight. I think."
>>71109
"The… prince… sent you on this mission, and I answer to him. he will guess where I went, and can probably manage a few days on his own."
>>71110
"If some things I have heard are true, there may be some… bad surprises waiting for us."
>>71113
"I see you don't trust my skills. Or perhaps you simply don't trust me…"
"Very well. If you don't want me along, I will stay here and pray for your safe return."
>>71144
"Holding back won't be necessary here."
He barely avoids the blow, ducking back and then stabbing your bubble, causing it to shatter into worthless fragments of magic that quickly vanish.
"Now fight like you mean it. I am not as frail as I might look."
He goes for a rather serious strike
Rolled 6 = 6
"Holding back won't be necessary here."
He barely avoids the blow, ducking back and then stabbing your bubble, causing it to shatter into worthless fragments of magic that quickly vanish.
"Now fight like you mean it. I am not as frail as I might look."
He goes for a rather serious strike
Rolled 6 = 6
>>71155
As he leaps on you, you manifest a new protective bubble, throwing the emissary back.
He wipes some snow from his chin as he gets back up
"If your idea of fighting consists of hiding inside a bubble and missing every swing you make, I am beginning to wonder why the prince even hired you."
He tries to shatter your shield
Rolled 7 = 7
As he leaps on you, you manifest a new protective bubble, throwing the emissary back.
He wipes some snow from his chin as he gets back up
"If your idea of fighting consists of hiding inside a bubble and missing every swing you make, I am beginning to wonder why the prince even hired you."
He tries to shatter your shield
Rolled 7 = 7
>>71175
>>71176
Time rewinds
There is no bubble to guard you
Destiny smacks your sword and shield away, then steps on your chestplate
>>71178
And then you suddenly leap up and ram him down as you stand up, knocking the breath out of him.
"Gah… FINALLY."
He tries to stand up
You are not helpless, but you are disarmed
Rolled 6 = 6
>>71176
Time rewinds
There is no bubble to guard you
Destiny smacks your sword and shield away, then steps on your chestplate
>>71178
And then you suddenly leap up and ram him down as you stand up, knocking the breath out of him.
"Gah… FINALLY."
He tries to stand up
You are not helpless, but you are disarmed
Rolled 6 = 6
After shoving and pulling your way into the tunnel, some more easily than others, you all take a look around.
The tunnel is very narrow near the entrance, but quickly widens into a hallway wide enough for at least ten ponies to stand side by side. Effectively, you could march an army into this tunnel, only for them to get horribly bottlenecked at the very end, with only a single pony at a time being able to crawl through on his belly into the waiting ambush.
Destiny starts walking down the tunnel, his hooves making a slight echo.
The tunnel is very narrow near the entrance, but quickly widens into a hallway wide enough for at least ten ponies to stand side by side. Effectively, you could march an army into this tunnel, only for them to get horribly bottlenecked at the very end, with only a single pony at a time being able to crawl through on his belly into the waiting ambush.
Destiny starts walking down the tunnel, his hooves making a slight echo.
>>71215
"Keep an eye out. Nopony should know of this tunnel outside Witnersgrasp, but one can never be too careful."
>>71217
You can count at least five echoes in the distance. This tunnel must go quite a way in.
"Please keep it down."
>>71218
You light up the tunnel. The ceiling is high enough to accommodate a banner pole. You could indeed march a whole army in here.
"Now, we have a bit of a walk ahead of us. Is there anything you'd like to know, or shall we travel in silence?"
"Keep an eye out. Nopony should know of this tunnel outside Witnersgrasp, but one can never be too careful."
>>71217
You can count at least five echoes in the distance. This tunnel must go quite a way in.
"Please keep it down."
>>71218
You light up the tunnel. The ceiling is high enough to accommodate a banner pole. You could indeed march a whole army in here.
"Now, we have a bit of a walk ahead of us. Is there anything you'd like to know, or shall we travel in silence?"
>>71226
"I was appointed by King Ironmane in person after he heard of my past achievements as a scholar and negotiator. I am not a native of Wintersgrasp, I came here when I was young. Indeed I traced my bloodline back to pre-Discordian Equestria. Amusing to know, but of no added consequence. I have not been there in my life, what with the rampant chaos and all. Though I hear a new ruler has risen to power there. Perhaps some day I will visit that place, if the Lights will me to."
You proceed uneventfully through the hallway. It retains its shape and dimensions throughout, the only difference being that it slowly slopes upwards as you go along.
"I was appointed by King Ironmane in person after he heard of my past achievements as a scholar and negotiator. I am not a native of Wintersgrasp, I came here when I was young. Indeed I traced my bloodline back to pre-Discordian Equestria. Amusing to know, but of no added consequence. I have not been there in my life, what with the rampant chaos and all. Though I hear a new ruler has risen to power there. Perhaps some day I will visit that place, if the Lights will me to."
You proceed uneventfully through the hallway. It retains its shape and dimensions throughout, the only difference being that it slowly slopes upwards as you go along.
>>71234
"I was well known in some regions for managing peace talks between nobles. Or maybe it was because he heard some old cleric said he 'saw a higher force within me'. But I do hope it was the former."
>>71238
"Accounts are poorly detailed in dates, but it is safe to say it has been perhaps a century since the draconequus Discord took rule of Equestria, scattering the former leaders of ponies."
"I was well known in some regions for managing peace talks between nobles. Or maybe it was because he heard some old cleric said he 'saw a higher force within me'. But I do hope it was the former."
>>71238
"Accounts are poorly detailed in dates, but it is safe to say it has been perhaps a century since the draconequus Discord took rule of Equestria, scattering the former leaders of ponies."
>>71245
>>71246
>>71247
>>71248
>>71249
It is a magnificent view.
You are atop a mountain, overlooking a small valley and a frozen lake. On the shore of said lake rises a castle almost as large as Wintersgrasp. That must be Ironfoe.
The sun is rising above the mountains. It is deathly cold here, but Destiny does not seem to mind. He rises on his back hooves and greets the sun by lifting his front hooves into the air.
"Good morning sun, moon. I trust you have been well…
Heroes, we may continue down to the valley and to Castle Ironfoe, or we may rest first, if you are tired."
>>71246
>>71247
>>71248
>>71249
It is a magnificent view.
You are atop a mountain, overlooking a small valley and a frozen lake. On the shore of said lake rises a castle almost as large as Wintersgrasp. That must be Ironfoe.
The sun is rising above the mountains. It is deathly cold here, but Destiny does not seem to mind. He rises on his back hooves and greets the sun by lifting his front hooves into the air.
"Good morning sun, moon. I trust you have been well…
Heroes, we may continue down to the valley and to Castle Ironfoe, or we may rest first, if you are tired."
>>71259
>>71261
>>71263
While the three of you manage to navigate the snowy mountainside with remarkable ease
>>71265
>>71258
Venia and Destiny end up bumping into eachother and painfully snowballing down the slope.
Oh well, at least you all got down.
Ironfoe is not far away now. Only the lake lies between it and you.
You can go around or across.
>>71261
>>71263
While the three of you manage to navigate the snowy mountainside with remarkable ease
>>71265
>>71258
Venia and Destiny end up bumping into eachother and painfully snowballing down the slope.
Oh well, at least you all got down.
Ironfoe is not far away now. Only the lake lies between it and you.
You can go around or across.
>>71268
And you skid down along the path made by the snowball
>>71267
"Much appreciated"
>>71269
Well there is one. And it doesn't even have snow on it. Indeed it looks really nice. Soft and cushiony to walk on too. And warm like a summer breeze. This is the best path ever.
It also gets you to the castle faster than crossing the lake even though that makes no sense at all. It just does.
Boom. Castle. Right there. Awesome.
And you skid down along the path made by the snowball
>>71267
"Much appreciated"
>>71269
Well there is one. And it doesn't even have snow on it. Indeed it looks really nice. Soft and cushiony to walk on too. And warm like a summer breeze. This is the best path ever.
It also gets you to the castle faster than crossing the lake even though that makes no sense at all. It just does.
Boom. Castle. Right there. Awesome.
>>71288
It's just a scrape. You seal it up quick even with such a weak spell.
>>71289
It doesn't look bad. Slight traces of dark magic seep from it though, and the fragments of the arrow reek of death.
>>71293
Lightning strikes you, blasting out off your hooves and rendering you helpless in the cold, unforgiving snow.
Rolled 9 = 9
It's just a scrape. You seal it up quick even with such a weak spell.
>>71289
It doesn't look bad. Slight traces of dark magic seep from it though, and the fragments of the arrow reek of death.
>>71293
Lightning strikes you, blasting out off your hooves and rendering you helpless in the cold, unforgiving snow.
Rolled 9 = 9
>>71295
>>71296
>>71297
With your combined efforts you get Venia back on her hooves.
>>71298
You notice some trees rustle softly as a dark figure leaps from one to another and vanishes.
You deduct that must have been Shadow Song.
You cannot know if she recognized any of you.
>>71299
"They probably do, but I doubt they know our identities or mission. She shouldn't know me at least. We need a plan."
>>71296
>>71297
With your combined efforts you get Venia back on her hooves.
>>71298
You notice some trees rustle softly as a dark figure leaps from one to another and vanishes.
You deduct that must have been Shadow Song.
You cannot know if she recognized any of you.
>>71299
"They probably do, but I doubt they know our identities or mission. She shouldn't know me at least. We need a plan."
>>71319
"Considering we were just shot at by an assassin heavily involved with the kingdom, I doubt we can simply waltz in and pretend we're simple travelers. But… the place is a fortress built into a mountain, I doubt we're gonna be finding a back door any time soon, and I doubt we'll be able to sneak in through the front door too easy."
"Considering we were just shot at by an assassin heavily involved with the kingdom, I doubt we can simply waltz in and pretend we're simple travelers. But… the place is a fortress built into a mountain, I doubt we're gonna be finding a back door any time soon, and I doubt we'll be able to sneak in through the front door too easy."
>>71329
You return to where the assassin was last seen and try to retrace her steps based on where the snow had been knocked off branches. The way takes you around to the mountainside, and after some poking around you notice a door tucked behind some stones.
Looks like a back way into the castle.
And what luck - it seems to be unlocked.
You return to where the assassin was last seen and try to retrace her steps based on where the snow had been knocked off branches. The way takes you around to the mountainside, and after some poking around you notice a door tucked behind some stones.
Looks like a back way into the castle.
And what luck - it seems to be unlocked.
>>71376
>>71367
>>71368
>>71369
>>71374
You make it past the guards without much problem, they seem to be fast asleep.
>>71370
Then Hedley stops to smack one on the head and call it a shitty guard.
The guards looks very hurt and upset, then wakes his buddy up too.
Hedley needs to roll for initiative.
The others win initiative bu default.
Anyone rolling a 1 will cause an alarm
Rolled 6 = 6
>>71367
>>71368
>>71369
>>71374
You make it past the guards without much problem, they seem to be fast asleep.
>>71370
Then Hedley stops to smack one on the head and call it a shitty guard.
The guards looks very hurt and upset, then wakes his buddy up too.
Hedley needs to roll for initiative.
The others win initiative bu default.
Anyone rolling a 1 will cause an alarm
Rolled 6 = 6
>>71379
You quickly trail a shot and fire, knocking the still sleepy guard out cold
>>71380
You charge forward and shatter the other guard's armour. Then you proceed to shatter his spear and his jaw.
He reels and falls helpless
>>71381
And is quickly dispatched by a magic bolt piercing his torso
>>71382
As the guard once again falls unconscious from the bolt, you help him sleep for eternity with your axe.
>>71384
And finally you make sure both are dead with a few quick strikes.
Looks like you're in the clear.
There are two doors out of here. One is at the top of some stairs, the other is in a small alcove slightly below floor level.
Judging by their positioning, the one upstairs probably leads to the castle proper, and the lower one to the underground section.
You quickly trail a shot and fire, knocking the still sleepy guard out cold
>>71380
You charge forward and shatter the other guard's armour. Then you proceed to shatter his spear and his jaw.
He reels and falls helpless
>>71381
And is quickly dispatched by a magic bolt piercing his torso
>>71382
As the guard once again falls unconscious from the bolt, you help him sleep for eternity with your axe.
>>71384
And finally you make sure both are dead with a few quick strikes.
Looks like you're in the clear.
There are two doors out of here. One is at the top of some stairs, the other is in a small alcove slightly below floor level.
Judging by their positioning, the one upstairs probably leads to the castle proper, and the lower one to the underground section.
>>71458
You manage to break free and make it to the others before the captain retaliates
>>71460
As the captain is distracted, you push him over with your magic.
He quickly regains his footing though.
>>71461
As you swing wide to catch as many foes as you can, two of the guards jump you and pummel you a little. However their poor training means you are mostly unharmed.
>>71462
You try to focus on a spell, but fail to finish the incantation.
>>71464
You charge in and wing your weapon, breaking the armour of one of the guards, leaving him vulnerable.
>>71465
Had you not been there, Venia would have gotten attacked. Instead, you tank the hit and counter the guard, sending him reeling.
Round 2
You manage to break free and make it to the others before the captain retaliates
>>71460
As the captain is distracted, you push him over with your magic.
He quickly regains his footing though.
>>71461
As you swing wide to catch as many foes as you can, two of the guards jump you and pummel you a little. However their poor training means you are mostly unharmed.
>>71462
You try to focus on a spell, but fail to finish the incantation.
>>71464
You charge in and wing your weapon, breaking the armour of one of the guards, leaving him vulnerable.
>>71465
Had you not been there, Venia would have gotten attacked. Instead, you tank the hit and counter the guard, sending him reeling.
Round 2
>>71475
You swing down on the guard, but he rolls away just in time
>>71476
You rise your voice to a very authoritative tone, and demand the captain to stand down, as he is clearly outnumbered.
He hesitates for a moment, then backs down and disarms himself.
The sight of this deeply demoralizes the lesser guards.
>>71478
Somehow, you don't even understand how, an ember from the lower level flies up and ignites the bolt as you fire it. It then pings off a nearby stone, hits the ceiling, ricochets again, hits a wall and lands in your ass, lighting you on fire.
You are not on fire and helpless.
>>71480
You knock your head against one of the armoured guards. That hurt you about as much as it hurt him.
>>71483
In apology, the winds of magic allow you to fire off this bolt, knocking one of the weaker guards helpless.
Be more specific next time. Your sheet says "Cutie Mark: Energy bolt"
You swing down on the guard, but he rolls away just in time
>>71476
You rise your voice to a very authoritative tone, and demand the captain to stand down, as he is clearly outnumbered.
He hesitates for a moment, then backs down and disarms himself.
The sight of this deeply demoralizes the lesser guards.
>>71478
Somehow, you don't even understand how, an ember from the lower level flies up and ignites the bolt as you fire it. It then pings off a nearby stone, hits the ceiling, ricochets again, hits a wall and lands in your ass, lighting you on fire.
You are not on fire and helpless.
>>71480
You knock your head against one of the armoured guards. That hurt you about as much as it hurt him.
>>71483
In apology, the winds of magic allow you to fire off this bolt, knocking one of the weaker guards helpless.
Be more specific next time. Your sheet says "Cutie Mark: Energy bolt"
>>71495
You miss your swing, and the guard regains his footing
>>71497
…only to get blasted down by a magic bolt, leaving him helpless.
>>71499
You take aim at the last standing guard and with a heroic roar… shoot a mile wide.
>>71500
As the guard points and laughs at the tracker, you blast him off the edge of the platform.
He dies screaming.
>>71502
>>71503
You consolidate your positions.
There are two helpless guards on the floor.
The Captain shakes his head and joins your ranks.
"I can see I am outmatched here. I do not wish to die, so I'll join you instead."
>Ironfoe Captain
>Knight
>Suppress, Slam, Last Stand
>Heavy Armour
>Mace
You miss your swing, and the guard regains his footing
>>71497
…only to get blasted down by a magic bolt, leaving him helpless.
>>71499
You take aim at the last standing guard and with a heroic roar… shoot a mile wide.
>>71500
As the guard points and laughs at the tracker, you blast him off the edge of the platform.
He dies screaming.
>>71502
>>71503
You consolidate your positions.
There are two helpless guards on the floor.
The Captain shakes his head and joins your ranks.
"I can see I am outmatched here. I do not wish to die, so I'll join you instead."
>Ironfoe Captain
>Knight
>Suppress, Slam, Last Stand
>Heavy Armour
>Mace
>>71510
"Captain Fireheart of the Overwatch"
>>71511
Below you can see a vast river of molten rock and metal. It splits the area in two. One part seems to be a dungeon, the other a small town carved into the mountain.
The Captain sees you looking and speaks
"Those are the dungeon and the Deep Palace."
>>71512
Everyone is back to good condition and spirits thanks to your efforts.
>>71513
He sits perfectly still
>>71515
And then the lordblade moves in to crush his skull
>>71516
Only to miss as he is pushed aside by the spellsword
"Captain Fireheart of the Overwatch"
>>71511
Below you can see a vast river of molten rock and metal. It splits the area in two. One part seems to be a dungeon, the other a small town carved into the mountain.
The Captain sees you looking and speaks
"Those are the dungeon and the Deep Palace."
>>71512
Everyone is back to good condition and spirits thanks to your efforts.
>>71513
He sits perfectly still
>>71515
And then the lordblade moves in to crush his skull
>>71516
Only to miss as he is pushed aside by the spellsword
>>71536
"I guess I'm a traitor now for siding with you, so I do the only thing I can do - fight until I die."
He looks neutral
>>71538
You hogtie and gag the guard, then roll him behind some nearby junk to keep him hidden.
>>71539
>>71540
"Nowhere and everywhere. Frankly I'm amazed she hasn't shot me dead yet for talking to you."
"I guess I'm a traitor now for siding with you, so I do the only thing I can do - fight until I die."
He looks neutral
>>71538
You hogtie and gag the guard, then roll him behind some nearby junk to keep him hidden.
>>71539
>>71540
"Nowhere and everywhere. Frankly I'm amazed she hasn't shot me dead yet for talking to you."
>>71560
"Look I'm a guard captain, not a counselor. All I know is she seemed happy enough to be out of Wintersgrasp. But then ANYPONY would be."
>>71561
"Kill? Hah. I think you're a bit late on that."
>>71562
"Ironmane has a brother?"
>>71563
"I'm not really allowed in the inner palace. It's over the bridge down there. That place that kinda looks like a small town."
Meanwhile, Destiny seems to be consumed in deep thought.
"Look I'm a guard captain, not a counselor. All I know is she seemed happy enough to be out of Wintersgrasp. But then ANYPONY would be."
>>71561
"Kill? Hah. I think you're a bit late on that."
>>71562
"Ironmane has a brother?"
>>71563
"I'm not really allowed in the inner palace. It's over the bridge down there. That place that kinda looks like a small town."
Meanwhile, Destiny seems to be consumed in deep thought.
>>71568
"EVERYTHING!"
He goes back to his prayer.
>>71569
"I… I fear I'm beginning to understand what the Light meant… But… no… NO. No I don't want it to be true…"
>>71570
"I just want to get out of here… We should finish what we came to do, and just. Go. But… if I'm right… then going back will only be the beginning of our problems…"
"EVERYTHING!"
He goes back to his prayer.
>>71569
"I… I fear I'm beginning to understand what the Light meant… But… no… NO. No I don't want it to be true…"
>>71570
"I just want to get out of here… We should finish what we came to do, and just. Go. But… if I'm right… then going back will only be the beginning of our problems…"
>>71611
You remember this one!
Simple, you just do this… and then that… aaaaan THERE!
Lightning greatsword, good to go.
>>71612
Fireheart walks across the bridge. The elite turn to him, but before he can say anything a black arrow strikes through his throat and he falls over.
>>71613
Enraged, you summon up your shield and storm into the ten elites.
Party, roll for initiative.
Anyone who rolls a 1 gets marked for death by Shadow Song.
Rolled 1 = 1
You remember this one!
Simple, you just do this… and then that… aaaaan THERE!
Lightning greatsword, good to go.
>>71612
Fireheart walks across the bridge. The elite turn to him, but before he can say anything a black arrow strikes through his throat and he falls over.
>>71613
Enraged, you summon up your shield and storm into the ten elites.
Party, roll for initiative.
Anyone who rolls a 1 gets marked for death by Shadow Song.
Rolled 1 = 1
>>71617
You charge into the fray, and as confusion reigns, manage to break off a bit of armour from one of the elites.
>>71619
You shatter your own shield, tossing one guard off the bridge and into the molten material
>>71621
You swing the lightning blade with all your might, but your poor balance fails to deliver any more force into the blow. You send one guard skidding back, but he stays upright.
>>71622
He is dying.
The arrow seems to have come from the upper palace windows.
>>71623
It came from the palace.
The remaining 9 elite reorganize and stand their ground
ROUND 2
>Destiny is marked
>Anyone who rolls a 1 also gets marked
You charge into the fray, and as confusion reigns, manage to break off a bit of armour from one of the elites.
>>71619
You shatter your own shield, tossing one guard off the bridge and into the molten material
>>71621
You swing the lightning blade with all your might, but your poor balance fails to deliver any more force into the blow. You send one guard skidding back, but he stays upright.
>>71622
He is dying.
The arrow seems to have come from the upper palace windows.
>>71623
It came from the palace.
The remaining 9 elite reorganize and stand their ground
ROUND 2
>Destiny is marked
>Anyone who rolls a 1 also gets marked
>>71635
You swing again, but this time you overexert yourself, missing entirely and giving the guard an opening to strike you back
>>71636
You smash the weakly protected Elite to the ground, rendering him helpless
>>71638
As you rip the arrow out, Fireheart stops breathing
>>71640
You focus your magic, but in panic it backfires, blasting you off hour hooves and rendering you helpless
>>71643
You fire a shot at one of the guards, easily finding a weak point in his armour, dropping him down to a knee.
>>71645
You charge into the fray, but an arrow strikes through your leg, causing you to fall face first on the bridge. Three elites then gang up on you, suppressing you.
Round 3
You swing again, but this time you overexert yourself, missing entirely and giving the guard an opening to strike you back
>>71636
You smash the weakly protected Elite to the ground, rendering him helpless
>>71638
As you rip the arrow out, Fireheart stops breathing
>>71640
You focus your magic, but in panic it backfires, blasting you off hour hooves and rendering you helpless
>>71643
You fire a shot at one of the guards, easily finding a weak point in his armour, dropping him down to a knee.
>>71645
You charge into the fray, but an arrow strikes through your leg, causing you to fall face first on the bridge. Three elites then gang up on you, suppressing you.
Round 3
>>71659
Mou manage to get back on your hooves. It still hurts though.
>>71660
You rise your blade to kill the helpless guard, and split him in two before any of the others can act.
>>71661
You drag yourself away as their focus is drawn elsewhere by >>71662
Venia's magic.
There is still a jagged arrow in your leg
>>71663
Before you can reload, an arrow strikes through your front leg, causing you to drop your weapon. You can see a dark mark on you. It is the mark of death.
All misses are now critical misses for you.
>>71665
He gasps sharply and pulls himself up a little
"Gah… please… please help me… jump off the bridge… before I turn… undead!"
Destiny, realizing he is no longer the main focus of Shadow Song's volley, materializes his blade and charges forth, striking one of the elites helpless.
Two elites are dead
One is helpless
Seven remain
Hopscotch has the Mark
Round 3
Mou manage to get back on your hooves. It still hurts though.
>>71660
You rise your blade to kill the helpless guard, and split him in two before any of the others can act.
>>71661
You drag yourself away as their focus is drawn elsewhere by >>71662
Venia's magic.
There is still a jagged arrow in your leg
>>71663
Before you can reload, an arrow strikes through your front leg, causing you to drop your weapon. You can see a dark mark on you. It is the mark of death.
All misses are now critical misses for you.
>>71665
He gasps sharply and pulls himself up a little
"Gah… please… please help me… jump off the bridge… before I turn… undead!"
Destiny, realizing he is no longer the main focus of Shadow Song's volley, materializes his blade and charges forth, striking one of the elites helpless.
Two elites are dead
One is helpless
Seven remain
Hopscotch has the Mark
Round 3
>>71679
He looks deep into your eyes. You can see fear and regret fill his heart. He wishes this is not how it ended for him. He knows he dies a traitor. Forsaken by history and his people. There will be no grave for him. No mourners. No memories.
But at least he won't come back as a monster.
You help him over the edge, and as he falls, he sheds a single tear.
"…goodbye.."
>>71673
You charge in, striking a massive overhead blow. The elite does his best to dodge, negating much of the force, but he is still knocked off balance.
>>71674
However you overshoot your blow and miss, leaving yourself open for a painful counter.
>>71682
You leap over the melee, smashing down the elite Jarquen knocked off balance, sending him crashing over, helpless.
>>71685
Finally, you summon all your rage into the lighting blade and strike wide, sending a charging elite over the edge of the bridge, killing him instantly.
Finally, Destiny sinks his light blade into one of the helpless Elites, then backs off
One Elite is helpless
Five remain standing
Four are dead
Round 4
He looks deep into your eyes. You can see fear and regret fill his heart. He wishes this is not how it ended for him. He knows he dies a traitor. Forsaken by history and his people. There will be no grave for him. No mourners. No memories.
But at least he won't come back as a monster.
You help him over the edge, and as he falls, he sheds a single tear.
"…goodbye.."
>>71673
You charge in, striking a massive overhead blow. The elite does his best to dodge, negating much of the force, but he is still knocked off balance.
>>71674
However you overshoot your blow and miss, leaving yourself open for a painful counter.
>>71682
You leap over the melee, smashing down the elite Jarquen knocked off balance, sending him crashing over, helpless.
>>71685
Finally, you summon all your rage into the lighting blade and strike wide, sending a charging elite over the edge of the bridge, killing him instantly.
Finally, Destiny sinks his light blade into one of the helpless Elites, then backs off
One Elite is helpless
Five remain standing
Four are dead
Round 4
>>71691
THE GODS ARE VERY SLEEPY
You wonder why you had one just a moment ago.
Anywho you put a bubble on Venia
>>71692
Who is lucky to have it, since the mark of death appears on her, followed shortly by an arrow that would have split her spine had the bubble not been there. However the bubble is destroyed.
>>71690
You lift your blade and bury it deep into the heart of the Elite, causing him to explode in a shower of gore.
>>71689
Well that was more like it!
Inspired by your brave, if incredibly suicidal charge, the others gain +1 to all rolls next round.
You end up surrounded, bu unharmed.
>>71695
You give Venia a little pickmeup, barely avoiding an arrow at whistles by your ear.
Five Elites still stand.
Round 5
THE GODS ARE VERY SLEEPY
You wonder why you had one just a moment ago.
Anywho you put a bubble on Venia
>>71692
Who is lucky to have it, since the mark of death appears on her, followed shortly by an arrow that would have split her spine had the bubble not been there. However the bubble is destroyed.
>>71690
You lift your blade and bury it deep into the heart of the Elite, causing him to explode in a shower of gore.
>>71689
Well that was more like it!
Inspired by your brave, if incredibly suicidal charge, the others gain +1 to all rolls next round.
You end up surrounded, bu unharmed.
>>71695
You give Venia a little pickmeup, barely avoiding an arrow at whistles by your ear.
Five Elites still stand.
Round 5
>>71700
The mark of death glows for a brief fraction of a second, and time seems to sit still.
You can see the arrow clearly. It is dark and jagged. Gleaming with evil intent. It is headed for your head.
>>71708
At the last possible moment, Dolce leaps in to intercept it.
Such perfection is placed in that shit that she can only change its course, not deflect it.
Less than half a second later, you both share a searing pain. But that pain proves you are both still alive.
Alive, but helpless.
You need outside help, and getting you back into fighting condition is DC8
>>71701
You once more resort to what you are best at - exploiting the weaknesses of enemy armour. And there is much armour to be had here. You sheer a few key plates off a nearby elite, reducing his defenses notably.
>>71706
Seeing a chance, you bury your axe into the shattered Elite, splitting his spine and forcing him down. You then rip your weapon out and strike him over the head, collapsing his helmet in, and killing him.
>>71707
As the guards prepare to retaliate against the others, you charge in from behind and slam into one, knocking him forward, but not off balance.
>>71721
You once more take aim, but the swirling melee is difficult to see into.
All too late you feel the cold mark of death darn upon you as an arrow strikes through your abdomen. You crumple forwards and helplessly roll to your side.
Four elites remain
Hopscotch is helpless and marked
Dolce is helpless and badly wounded
Venia is helpless and badly wounded
Round 6
The mark of death glows for a brief fraction of a second, and time seems to sit still.
You can see the arrow clearly. It is dark and jagged. Gleaming with evil intent. It is headed for your head.
>>71708
At the last possible moment, Dolce leaps in to intercept it.
Such perfection is placed in that shit that she can only change its course, not deflect it.
Less than half a second later, you both share a searing pain. But that pain proves you are both still alive.
Alive, but helpless.
You need outside help, and getting you back into fighting condition is DC8
>>71701
You once more resort to what you are best at - exploiting the weaknesses of enemy armour. And there is much armour to be had here. You sheer a few key plates off a nearby elite, reducing his defenses notably.
>>71706
Seeing a chance, you bury your axe into the shattered Elite, splitting his spine and forcing him down. You then rip your weapon out and strike him over the head, collapsing his helmet in, and killing him.
>>71707
As the guards prepare to retaliate against the others, you charge in from behind and slam into one, knocking him forward, but not off balance.
>>71721
You once more take aim, but the swirling melee is difficult to see into.
All too late you feel the cold mark of death darn upon you as an arrow strikes through your abdomen. You crumple forwards and helplessly roll to your side.
Four elites remain
Hopscotch is helpless and marked
Dolce is helpless and badly wounded
Venia is helpless and badly wounded
Round 6
>>71740
>>71743
>>71751
Defying death, you all stand back up. Bleeding badly, both internally and externally, you stare doom in the eye and grin.
All failures count as crit failures for you for the rest of the combat.
>>71760
Well except Dolce. She just has -3 to all rolls.
>>71745
You let out a mighty war cry and charge onwards into the foe.
They block your blind rush without much trouble, but your sheer bloody minded determination gives +1 to all rolls next round.
>>71742
You swing and strike another Elite, shattering his helmet.
For a moment, you see a very scared look in his eyes.
Four elites remain
Hopscotch still has the mark
nobody is helpless
Round 7
>>71743
>>71751
Defying death, you all stand back up. Bleeding badly, both internally and externally, you stare doom in the eye and grin.
All failures count as crit failures for you for the rest of the combat.
>>71760
Well except Dolce. She just has -3 to all rolls.
>>71745
You let out a mighty war cry and charge onwards into the foe.
They block your blind rush without much trouble, but your sheer bloody minded determination gives +1 to all rolls next round.
>>71742
You swing and strike another Elite, shattering his helmet.
For a moment, you see a very scared look in his eyes.
Four elites remain
Hopscotch still has the mark
nobody is helpless
Round 7
>>71778
You barely manage to manifest a weak shield around her.
And even that exhausted you.
>>71780
You drink your healing potion. It is bitter and thick, but you can feel your wounds knit shut and life return to you.
You can stand.
YOU CAN FIGHT!
-1 to all rolls next round, but no more auto crit fails
Then reroll to see how you feel
>>71782
COURAGE AND HONOR!
FOR THE LIVING
FOR THE FALLEN
FOR ALL YOU STAND FOR
You charge screaming into the foe, igniting a fire of hope in the hearts of all that see you.
+3 to all rolls next round.
>>71784
She feels horrible, but not deathly so.
She also has -3 to all rolls rather than auto crit fails
>>71785
You turn around and catch his revealed head with your blade, smashing the skull apart and watching the body flop off the bridge.
>>71788
Not in that window
Not in that one
Nor that one
THERE
SHE IS THERE
You grasp her with your magic, but she tries to escape
Pull her down: DC10
Scare her off: DC2
Three Elites remain
You barely manage to manifest a weak shield around her.
And even that exhausted you.
>>71780
You drink your healing potion. It is bitter and thick, but you can feel your wounds knit shut and life return to you.
You can stand.
YOU CAN FIGHT!
-1 to all rolls next round, but no more auto crit fails
Then reroll to see how you feel
>>71782
COURAGE AND HONOR!
FOR THE LIVING
FOR THE FALLEN
FOR ALL YOU STAND FOR
You charge screaming into the foe, igniting a fire of hope in the hearts of all that see you.
+3 to all rolls next round.
>>71784
She feels horrible, but not deathly so.
She also has -3 to all rolls rather than auto crit fails
>>71785
You turn around and catch his revealed head with your blade, smashing the skull apart and watching the body flop off the bridge.
>>71788
Not in that window
Not in that one
Nor that one
THERE
SHE IS THERE
You grasp her with your magic, but she tries to escape
Pull her down: DC10
Scare her off: DC2
Three Elites remain
>>71806
She struggles against your grasp, but breaks free and vanishes.
The Death marks disappear
>>71813
You swing at a guard with newfound bravery, but your weak swing is easily parried and met with a staggering riposte that sends you reeling in pain.
>>71811
You get an insane idea, but it might just be insane enough to work.
You load your entire quiver at once!
Taking aim with the massive porcupine of bolts, you let loose a mighty scream and fire, impaling every single Elite, pinning them in place.
All three are immobile and helpless
>>71815
You scream and spin around with your blade, attempting a feat of acrobatics you never even imagined possible.
And it pays off. Your wide arc strikes two of the Elites, who, unable to move, are cleaved in half, fragments of bone and organs splattering around the bridge.
>>71819
Finally, with all your might, you bring down your axe across the neck of the last one, sending his head rolling all the way to the door of the palace.
The Elites Guards have all fallen.
Shadow Song has fled.
HELL HAS NO FURY LIKE THE FIRE IN YOUR BELLIES
NONE CAN STAND BEFORE THE HEROES OF WINTERSGRASP
YOUR MISSION WILL. NOT. FAIL.
OR WILL IT?
AND WHAT IS THE TRUTH BEHIND ALL THIS?
FIND OUT NEXT TIME - IN NORTHLANDS
She struggles against your grasp, but breaks free and vanishes.
The Death marks disappear
>>71813
You swing at a guard with newfound bravery, but your weak swing is easily parried and met with a staggering riposte that sends you reeling in pain.
>>71811
You get an insane idea, but it might just be insane enough to work.
You load your entire quiver at once!
Taking aim with the massive porcupine of bolts, you let loose a mighty scream and fire, impaling every single Elite, pinning them in place.
All three are immobile and helpless
>>71815
You scream and spin around with your blade, attempting a feat of acrobatics you never even imagined possible.
And it pays off. Your wide arc strikes two of the Elites, who, unable to move, are cleaved in half, fragments of bone and organs splattering around the bridge.
>>71819
Finally, with all your might, you bring down your axe across the neck of the last one, sending his head rolling all the way to the door of the palace.
The Elites Guards have all fallen.
Shadow Song has fled.
HELL HAS NO FURY LIKE THE FIRE IN YOUR BELLIES
NONE CAN STAND BEFORE THE HEROES OF WINTERSGRASP
YOUR MISSION WILL. NOT. FAIL.
OR WILL IT?
AND WHAT IS THE TRUTH BEHIND ALL THIS?
FIND OUT NEXT TIME - IN NORTHLANDS
Lights of lights, greatest three, I ask only you watch over me
Light of day, of night, of heart, guide my path before it tears me apart
WHEN WE LAST LEFT OUR HEROES they had dispatched the elite guard at the gates of King Deep Rock's underground palace.
Fireheart, the captured Elite, died in battle, but Destiny still remains at your side.
Before you lie the gates of the palace.
Light of day, of night, of heart, guide my path before it tears me apart
WHEN WE LAST LEFT OUR HEROES they had dispatched the elite guard at the gates of King Deep Rock's underground palace.
Fireheart, the captured Elite, died in battle, but Destiny still remains at your side.
Before you lie the gates of the palace.
>>73516
With some notable effort you pull open the gates of the palace. Various images of ponies are embossed on them. Studying said imagery might reveal some background info.
Immediately behind the gates is an entrance hall, with statues forming a path from the main gates to a stairwell leading downwards.
On the sides of the room are smaller doors, and a staircase to the upper floors.
There are no guards in this room, presumably they were all outside.
With some notable effort you pull open the gates of the palace. Various images of ponies are embossed on them. Studying said imagery might reveal some background info.
Immediately behind the gates is an entrance hall, with statues forming a path from the main gates to a stairwell leading downwards.
On the sides of the room are smaller doors, and a staircase to the upper floors.
There are no guards in this room, presumably they were all outside.
>>73522
>>73523
The imagery consists primarily of three mountains - a large one in the center and smaller ones at the edges. There is a castle on each mountain, and ponies amassing before each.
At the back of each group is a larger pony with a crown. The one on the left is wielding a sword, the one on the right a hammer.
You deduct this is probably a nod to kings Wintersgrasp and Ironfoe, and their generations old enmity.
>>73523
The imagery consists primarily of three mountains - a large one in the center and smaller ones at the edges. There is a castle on each mountain, and ponies amassing before each.
At the back of each group is a larger pony with a crown. The one on the left is wielding a sword, the one on the right a hammer.
You deduct this is probably a nod to kings Wintersgrasp and Ironfoe, and their generations old enmity.
>>73527
>>73528
You arrive on the second floor. There is a long balcony here, overlooking the lower floor, several locked doors and some windows with a view to the bridge.
>>73529
>>73530
They seem to be normal statues. From the looks of them, they are dedications to old heroes and soldiers. Nothing implies they can move.
They all seem to have the same name on the base. "Golden Oats". That must be the artist who made them.
>>73528
You arrive on the second floor. There is a long balcony here, overlooking the lower floor, several locked doors and some windows with a view to the bridge.
>>73529
>>73530
They seem to be normal statues. From the looks of them, they are dedications to old heroes and soldiers. Nothing implies they can move.
They all seem to have the same name on the base. "Golden Oats". That must be the artist who made them.
>>73536
They all seem to be fairly similar. Probably sleeping quarters.
Nothing on the second floor really stands out much as being important.
>>73537
It gives a very good view of the bridge, and you can see why one would use it as a sniper nest. Picking off targets from here would be easy.
>>73538
There is an unlocked one. Inside you find a nice bed and a half-eaten meal. Looks like someone left in a hurry not too long ago.
They all seem to be fairly similar. Probably sleeping quarters.
Nothing on the second floor really stands out much as being important.
>>73537
It gives a very good view of the bridge, and you can see why one would use it as a sniper nest. Picking off targets from here would be easy.
>>73538
There is an unlocked one. Inside you find a nice bed and a half-eaten meal. Looks like someone left in a hurry not too long ago.
>>73555
You barely manifest a small shimmering shield on her.
It looks frail and useless.
>>73557
After the evil curtain and dust trap is defeated, you take a better look. The bent leaf on the potted plant, the chipped paint on the guiderail, the slight misalignment of the carpet below and the small smudge on the stairs tells a clear story.
Shadow Song bolted from the window, leaped over to the lower floor and escaped deeper into the palace.
>>73558
You smash down another of the doors. The room is exactly like the previous one. The wardrobe seems to be shivering.
You barely manifest a small shimmering shield on her.
It looks frail and useless.
>>73557
After the evil curtain and dust trap is defeated, you take a better look. The bent leaf on the potted plant, the chipped paint on the guiderail, the slight misalignment of the carpet below and the small smudge on the stairs tells a clear story.
Shadow Song bolted from the window, leaped over to the lower floor and escaped deeper into the palace.
>>73558
You smash down another of the doors. The room is exactly like the previous one. The wardrobe seems to be shivering.
>>73588
"It's downstairs… I suppose you would have found that out anyway… Perhaps this way you at least won't destroy anything else looking for it…"
>>73590
"Shadow Song is a devoted and caring pony. She has known the king for a long time and does all she can to keep the residents of Ironfoe safe from harm and invaders."
>>73592
"Shadow Song was rising the alarm here ever since she got back from her scouting run. She told everyone to get to the safe areas. I would image she went into the Inner Palace to make sure everyone is safe."
"It's downstairs… I suppose you would have found that out anyway… Perhaps this way you at least won't destroy anything else looking for it…"
>>73590
"Shadow Song is a devoted and caring pony. She has known the king for a long time and does all she can to keep the residents of Ironfoe safe from harm and invaders."
>>73592
"Shadow Song was rising the alarm here ever since she got back from her scouting run. She told everyone to get to the safe areas. I would image she went into the Inner Palace to make sure everyone is safe."
>>73596
"Your sneak attack did catch us all by surprise. Nopony here thought Wintersgrasp would so brazenly declare war on us so soon after their previous attack."
>>73597
"No reason? That's a mouthful coming from someone still coated in fresh blood."
>>73598
The statues have not moved.
The way down does not seem guarded.
"Your sneak attack did catch us all by surprise. Nopony here thought Wintersgrasp would so brazenly declare war on us so soon after their previous attack."
>>73597
"No reason? That's a mouthful coming from someone still coated in fresh blood."
>>73598
The statues have not moved.
The way down does not seem guarded.
>>73594
"I suppose you would see her as that, but we have business to settle with her. She attacked us unprovoked on the way here, and already killed one of our members, in addition to nearly killing another two. A mother and daughter pair, in fact."
I frown at the thought, then look back at her with a gentle smile,
"Still, thank you for the information. You're free to go now."
>>73600
"We weren't here to declare war. We only came here to reclaim Ironmane's sword. We're not even associated with Wintergrasp really, we're just mercenaries."
"I suppose you would see her as that, but we have business to settle with her. She attacked us unprovoked on the way here, and already killed one of our members, in addition to nearly killing another two. A mother and daughter pair, in fact."
I frown at the thought, then look back at her with a gentle smile,
"Still, thank you for the information. You're free to go now."
>>73600
"We weren't here to declare war. We only came here to reclaim Ironmane's sword. We're not even associated with Wintergrasp really, we're just mercenaries."
>>73632
I push him out of the way so he can't touch her anymore
"If we'll see your sister, we'll tell her where to find you. We aren't here to kill civilians. Actually, we won't kill anyone, who doesn't attack us first. The way you acted when you heard of our mission does not inspire trust in you."
I push him out of the way so he can't touch her anymore
"If we'll see your sister, we'll tell her where to find you. We aren't here to kill civilians. Actually, we won't kill anyone, who doesn't attack us first. The way you acted when you heard of our mission does not inspire trust in you."
>>73690
>>73691
>>73692
>>73694
>>73695
You ALL descend the stairwell down towards the Inner Palace.
Two Elite Guard are patrolling below you, on a small courtyard over the molten flow below.
From the courtyard, further bridges extend towards side buildings, and a larger one at what must be the main palace, accounting all the guards and the large gate.
Nobody has seen you yet.
>>73691
>>73692
>>73694
>>73695
You ALL descend the stairwell down towards the Inner Palace.
Two Elite Guard are patrolling below you, on a small courtyard over the molten flow below.
From the courtyard, further bridges extend towards side buildings, and a larger one at what must be the main palace, accounting all the guards and the large gate.
Nobody has seen you yet.
>>73715
I let out a sigh of relief
"Okay, that's good to hear, I thought something happened and she got hurt or something. Say, uhhh, I'm ashamed to admit, but I'm a little out of loop right now with what has happened around here lately. Didn't even get a briefing or anything! Could any of you stallions fill me in?"
Is this distraction enough or not?
I let out a sigh of relief
"Okay, that's good to hear, I thought something happened and she got hurt or something. Say, uhhh, I'm ashamed to admit, but I'm a little out of loop right now with what has happened around here lately. Didn't even get a briefing or anything! Could any of you stallions fill me in?"
Is this distraction enough or not?
>>73716
There is still a large group of guards at the palace door, and these two are blocking the bridge. Try leading them elsewhere.
"Shadow Song saw a large armed band headed this way. Turns out they are soldiers from Wintersgrasp here for their dead king's sword. She is over at the palace getting new orders, and Liquidy Mint is preparing the golems. King Deep Rock should be safe now, and we will protect the civilians."
There is still a large group of guards at the palace door, and these two are blocking the bridge. Try leading them elsewhere.
"Shadow Song saw a large armed band headed this way. Turns out they are soldiers from Wintersgrasp here for their dead king's sword. She is over at the palace getting new orders, and Liquidy Mint is preparing the golems. King Deep Rock should be safe now, and we will protect the civilians."
>>73739
The guards look at eachother and shrug
"Well, if the enemy has not made it this far in yet, sure, newbie."
"Right this way."
They escort you off to one of the side buildings, unlocking the door and entering. Inside, about three dozen civilians are huddled around the room. Some are eating some nice food. The Elites make their way past everyone, towards the back.
The bridges are now clear.
The guards look at eachother and shrug
"Well, if the enemy has not made it this far in yet, sure, newbie."
"Right this way."
They escort you off to one of the side buildings, unlocking the door and entering. Inside, about three dozen civilians are huddled around the room. Some are eating some nice food. The Elites make their way past everyone, towards the back.
The bridges are now clear.
The party makes their way towards the main palace, staying out of sight.
Roll to make it safely
Collective DC 20
>>73750
"Not as far as we know. Then, we have no knowledge of what is going on in the upper castle. The rest are in the other buildings back there. We use them mostly for storage and as places for the guards to rest and train in, but in times of danger we house the guests here."
Roll to make it safely
Collective DC 20
>>73750
"Not as far as we know. Then, we have no knowledge of what is going on in the upper castle. The rest are in the other buildings back there. We use them mostly for storage and as places for the guards to rest and train in, but in times of danger we house the guests here."
>>73765
"We must protect the king and guests. If they show any signs of hostility, we are allowed to use lethal force. The gall of Wintersgrasp… sending in wave after wave of soldiers to harass us…"
>>73757
>>73758
>>73759
>>73761
You descend down to the courtyard and proceed to the side of one of the buildings, locating some crates. Using them, you climb up to the roof, and edge your way across the raised parts, reaching the palace proper without so much as a dropped brick.
You enter the palace via a window, and make your way down to behind the main gate.
This place is not very large compared to the last two, but that is understandable, seeing as how deep down you are.
Right beyond the entrance hall is a larger hall that has two exits. One is raised and has a much fancier, golden door. Probably the throne room.
You can hear the familiar voice of Fresh Streak from the other. She seems to be talking to her sister.
"We must protect the king and guests. If they show any signs of hostility, we are allowed to use lethal force. The gall of Wintersgrasp… sending in wave after wave of soldiers to harass us…"
>>73757
>>73758
>>73759
>>73761
You descend down to the courtyard and proceed to the side of one of the buildings, locating some crates. Using them, you climb up to the roof, and edge your way across the raised parts, reaching the palace proper without so much as a dropped brick.
You enter the palace via a window, and make your way down to behind the main gate.
This place is not very large compared to the last two, but that is understandable, seeing as how deep down you are.
Right beyond the entrance hall is a larger hall that has two exits. One is raised and has a much fancier, golden door. Probably the throne room.
You can hear the familiar voice of Fresh Streak from the other. She seems to be talking to her sister.
Venia can turn and run out at any point. The civilian hold is so crowded she wont even need to roll for it.
>>73789
>>73792
"—told you it isn't safe here! Witch Doctor or not, I'd rather have you out of here than trapped here. David might be big and hard, but he can't keep you safe from all of them! Please! They won't understand!"
>>73789
>>73792
"—told you it isn't safe here! Witch Doctor or not, I'd rather have you out of here than trapped here. David might be big and hard, but he can't keep you safe from all of them! Please! They won't understand!"
>>73829
You are shielded by a shimmering sphere
>>73832
>>73835
You gently try to move the shadow, but as you nudge it, it dissipates into nothing.
>>73834
Flying up, you realize you indeed shot a shadow that was walking around up there. What a curious trick. Shadow Song must be here somewhere.
As you return to the others, you can hear heavy hoofsteps from the direction of the throne room door.
Looking over, you all see King Ironmane, still clad in his personalized suit of armour, with empty, dead eyes and a decorated sword stabbed clean through his back.
"WHO DARES INTRUDE UPON THE THRONE OF IRONFEL? Cease this foolish venture at once! Turn away while you still can!"
You are shielded by a shimmering sphere
>>73832
>>73835
You gently try to move the shadow, but as you nudge it, it dissipates into nothing.
>>73834
Flying up, you realize you indeed shot a shadow that was walking around up there. What a curious trick. Shadow Song must be here somewhere.
As you return to the others, you can hear heavy hoofsteps from the direction of the throne room door.
Looking over, you all see King Ironmane, still clad in his personalized suit of armour, with empty, dead eyes and a decorated sword stabbed clean through his back.
"WHO DARES INTRUDE UPON THE THRONE OF IRONFEL? Cease this foolish venture at once! Turn away while you still can!"
>>73844
>>73847
The sword is lodged in there very firmly, probably by someone very strong. It is probably impossible to remove without extensive effort or breaking the whole king in half.
"What do you seek to gain in stealing my blade?"
>>73849
He spots you sneaking up the stairs, and smashes you down them
"I once let a soldier of Wintersgrasp sneak up on me. NEVER AGAIN!"
>>73845
Your hooves shake from his unholy presence. You were not really prepared to face a real undead face to face.
>>73847
The sword is lodged in there very firmly, probably by someone very strong. It is probably impossible to remove without extensive effort or breaking the whole king in half.
"What do you seek to gain in stealing my blade?"
>>73849
He spots you sneaking up the stairs, and smashes you down them
"I once let a soldier of Wintersgrasp sneak up on me. NEVER AGAIN!"
>>73845
Your hooves shake from his unholy presence. You were not really prepared to face a real undead face to face.
>>73854
You focus. It's just a walking corpse controlled by the assassin sitting above you. No big deal.
>>73855
Exerting a massive amount of force into the sword, you manage to nudge it. Then its incredibly sharp edge bites into the bone and flesh of the king, ripping him in half.
The two halves then struggle to remain upright-
>>73859
>>73856
-until Venia and Hedley charge up the stairs and smash them aside. They flop off the platform and stop moving, only mouthing the word "storm" before laying still.
Destiny picks up the sword and sheaths it on his side.
You all hear a sharp "puff" sound, but nothing else happens.
You now have Foerist back.
Snowflake is still in the throne room
Shadow Song is still at large
The Golems are still there
There is still a huge amount of guards holding the palace gates
WILL OUR HEROES FLEE NOW THAT THEY HAVE THE SWORD?
OR WILL THEY CONTINUE TO GET SNOWFLAKE BACK AS WELL?
AND HOW WILL THEY EVER ESCAPE THIS PLACE?
FIND OUT NEXT TIME ON NORTHLANDS
You focus. It's just a walking corpse controlled by the assassin sitting above you. No big deal.
>>73855
Exerting a massive amount of force into the sword, you manage to nudge it. Then its incredibly sharp edge bites into the bone and flesh of the king, ripping him in half.
The two halves then struggle to remain upright-
>>73859
>>73856
-until Venia and Hedley charge up the stairs and smash them aside. They flop off the platform and stop moving, only mouthing the word "storm" before laying still.
Destiny picks up the sword and sheaths it on his side.
You all hear a sharp "puff" sound, but nothing else happens.
You now have Foerist back.
Snowflake is still in the throne room
Shadow Song is still at large
The Golems are still there
There is still a huge amount of guards holding the palace gates
WILL OUR HEROES FLEE NOW THAT THEY HAVE THE SWORD?
OR WILL THEY CONTINUE TO GET SNOWFLAKE BACK AS WELL?
AND HOW WILL THEY EVER ESCAPE THIS PLACE?
FIND OUT NEXT TIME ON NORTHLANDS
Lights of lights I know you won't lie - is it time for my homeland to die?
Light of heart, of day, of night - in your name I will finish this fight
WHEN WE LAST LEFT OUR HEROES they had retrieved the sword Foerist from the dead King Ironmane.
They now stand at the gates of the throne room of King Deep Rock.
THE STORY CONTINUES
Light of heart, of day, of night - in your name I will finish this fight
WHEN WE LAST LEFT OUR HEROES they had retrieved the sword Foerist from the dead King Ironmane.
They now stand at the gates of the throne room of King Deep Rock.
THE STORY CONTINUES
>>74272
Mostly those who fell victim to Shadow Song's arrows earlier seem to be in less than perfect condition.
You may proceed to the Golem Forge where Fresh Streak and Liquidy Mint are hiding, the Throne Room where Deep Rock and Snowflake are presumed to be, or the main gates, which have the elite guards on the other side.
Mostly those who fell victim to Shadow Song's arrows earlier seem to be in less than perfect condition.
You may proceed to the Golem Forge where Fresh Streak and Liquidy Mint are hiding, the Throne Room where Deep Rock and Snowflake are presumed to be, or the main gates, which have the elite guards on the other side.
>>74290
"You have no understanding of the task placed upon you, nor the ramifications if you are allowed to complete it. If I allow you to leave with that blade, I not only betray my homeland, but doom it to another devastating war."
>>74291
You manifest a powerful shield around yourself.
>>74292
Destiny takes some steps back and begins to mutter a silent prayer.
The mark of death appears on him
"Perhaps I will."
>>74293
>>74296
"You invade my homeland, murder my people and steal from us the one thing that keeps us safe. And yet you expect me to simply stand down? Your arrogance borders on madness."
>>74294
As much as you do not wish to acknowledge it, hers is probably the purest heart in the room.
Jarquen being the blackest.
"You have no understanding of the task placed upon you, nor the ramifications if you are allowed to complete it. If I allow you to leave with that blade, I not only betray my homeland, but doom it to another devastating war."
>>74291
You manifest a powerful shield around yourself.
>>74292
Destiny takes some steps back and begins to mutter a silent prayer.
The mark of death appears on him
"Perhaps I will."
>>74293
>>74296
"You invade my homeland, murder my people and steal from us the one thing that keeps us safe. And yet you expect me to simply stand down? Your arrogance borders on madness."
>>74294
As much as you do not wish to acknowledge it, hers is probably the purest heart in the room.
Jarquen being the blackest.
>>74311
"The sword, Foerist, has been the symbol of Wintergrasp's king since the nation's founding. It was named so, for it was the blade that slew King Ironfoe, the first king of my homeland. Ever since, our kingdoms have been at odds, striking out against eachother when ever we meet. Centuries of war over a reason nopony can remember any more. But without the sword, they have no king. And without a king, they won't have a reason to attack us."
>>74313
>>74320
"You march from Wintersgrasp to our gates in full arms and DARE claim you act in defense? HOW… HOW DARE YOU!?"
>>74316
"Honorless sellsword, you may beg the king for trinkets if you so desire. I would believe he could part with gold if indeed you are one to place a price tag on peace."
>>74321
The silhouette at the window is but a disembodied shadow.
Shadow Song herself is standing at the other end of the room, bow drawn, aiming at Destiny.
She must be throwing her voice. That would explain why it sounds so odd.
"The sword, Foerist, has been the symbol of Wintergrasp's king since the nation's founding. It was named so, for it was the blade that slew King Ironfoe, the first king of my homeland. Ever since, our kingdoms have been at odds, striking out against eachother when ever we meet. Centuries of war over a reason nopony can remember any more. But without the sword, they have no king. And without a king, they won't have a reason to attack us."
>>74313
>>74320
"You march from Wintersgrasp to our gates in full arms and DARE claim you act in defense? HOW… HOW DARE YOU!?"
>>74316
"Honorless sellsword, you may beg the king for trinkets if you so desire. I would believe he could part with gold if indeed you are one to place a price tag on peace."
>>74321
The silhouette at the window is but a disembodied shadow.
Shadow Song herself is standing at the other end of the room, bow drawn, aiming at Destiny.
She must be throwing her voice. That would explain why it sounds so odd.
>>74329
"And what is this reward you so willingly slay for? Gold? Gems? Slaves?"
>>74330
"Goldenblood… You mean the old king's coward brother, do you not? He is no leader, he is a quill pusher. But I admire his will to help the people, rather than exploit them like his brother did."
You can hear the bow string tighten
"And what is this you supposedly wish to know of fair Snowflake?"
>>74332
Destiny is still deep in prayer, but you should be in the way of any clear shot
"And what is this reward you so willingly slay for? Gold? Gems? Slaves?"
>>74330
"Goldenblood… You mean the old king's coward brother, do you not? He is no leader, he is a quill pusher. But I admire his will to help the people, rather than exploit them like his brother did."
You can hear the bow string tighten
"And what is this you supposedly wish to know of fair Snowflake?"
>>74332
Destiny is still deep in prayer, but you should be in the way of any clear shot
>>74334
"Even I am rich enough to buy your loyalty then, you poor soul."
A sack of gold lands at your hooves.
>>74336
>>74337
"I call him a coward for he refuses to fight and die for what he believes in. He would rather hide his plans from the world and hope that one day someone else would solve all the world's problem for him."
The silhouette lowers its bow and hops down from the window, landing in a nearby shadow by the wall
"As for Snowflake… she is both. She is the wife of Goldenblood, and the queen of Ironfoe. Though I am one of the few who knows that. And… there is one more thing. But it is not my place to discuss it."
"Even I am rich enough to buy your loyalty then, you poor soul."
A sack of gold lands at your hooves.
>>74336
>>74337
"I call him a coward for he refuses to fight and die for what he believes in. He would rather hide his plans from the world and hope that one day someone else would solve all the world's problem for him."
The silhouette lowers its bow and hops down from the window, landing in a nearby shadow by the wall
"As for Snowflake… she is both. She is the wife of Goldenblood, and the queen of Ironfoe. Though I am one of the few who knows that. And… there is one more thing. But it is not my place to discuss it."
>>74363
"Jarqen you will cut that shit out right now or I swear to every god and wannabe god that I will put bolt through your head faster than Shadow Song can blink. You have caused nothing but trouble on this mission and have attacked us and the ponies we try to question without provocation too many times."
"Jarqen you will cut that shit out right now or I swear to every god and wannabe god that I will put bolt through your head faster than Shadow Song can blink. You have caused nothing but trouble on this mission and have attacked us and the ponies we try to question without provocation too many times."
>>74352
"I need but signal the elite to swarm you. But I prefer to know who I kill, and why they sought to harm my home."
>>74354
>>74360
"Raging Storm… the old soldier. He tried to save his king by killing him before my Cursed Arrow could take hold. The fool understood nothing of how the curse works, and merely helped me along. He then ran, knowing just how badly he had failed. To add insult to injury, he even used the king's own sword. What a failure. Truly befitting Wintersgrasp."
>>74363
"And so it all descends into petty infighting. The king will be pleased to hear Wintersgrasp is so desperate it now places hope in the hooves of childish amateurs."
"I need but signal the elite to swarm you. But I prefer to know who I kill, and why they sought to harm my home."
>>74354
>>74360
"Raging Storm… the old soldier. He tried to save his king by killing him before my Cursed Arrow could take hold. The fool understood nothing of how the curse works, and merely helped me along. He then ran, knowing just how badly he had failed. To add insult to injury, he even used the king's own sword. What a failure. Truly befitting Wintersgrasp."
>>74363
"And so it all descends into petty infighting. The king will be pleased to hear Wintersgrasp is so desperate it now places hope in the hooves of childish amateurs."
>>74377
"Perhaps there is indeed a way. I do not know if I can fully trust you, but I can always make an offer. Queen Snowflake… she is with child. If Goldenblood were to become king-"
Destiny's ears perk up
"NO! I WILL NOT ALLOW IT! That child would become the rightful heir both thrones! IT WOULD BE THE END OF WINTERSGRASP!"
An arrow strikes him in the hoof, forcing him back down
"Exactly. One kingdom under one king. A true end to war."
>>74363
The shield explodes into iridescent shards and Dolce is flung across the room. The smashes into a pillar and is now helpless.
>>74379
An arrow then pierces her flank, centered on her cutie mark
"ARROGANCE WILL NOT SAVE YOU, SELLSWORD."
"Perhaps there is indeed a way. I do not know if I can fully trust you, but I can always make an offer. Queen Snowflake… she is with child. If Goldenblood were to become king-"
Destiny's ears perk up
"NO! I WILL NOT ALLOW IT! That child would become the rightful heir both thrones! IT WOULD BE THE END OF WINTERSGRASP!"
An arrow strikes him in the hoof, forcing him back down
"Exactly. One kingdom under one king. A true end to war."
>>74363
The shield explodes into iridescent shards and Dolce is flung across the room. The smashes into a pillar and is now helpless.
>>74379
An arrow then pierces her flank, centered on her cutie mark
"ARROGANCE WILL NOT SAVE YOU, SELLSWORD."
>>74387
"It might be best you take the good lady with you. And we still need to convince King Deep Rock. He does not know Snowflake is also married to Goldenblood, and the child will not be a rightful king unless Goldenblood believes it to be his own."
Destiny gasps as he removes the arrow
"Do not do it. DO NOT TAKE THAT DEAL!"
>>74388
>>74389
Dolce gets back up, without much pain or scarring to speak of.
>>74392
"I cannot permit it. I will not stand by and watch as Deep Rock's BASTARD CHILD defiles the throne of Wintersgrasp. I'd rather lead the armies of Canterlot here myself to raze BOTH kingdoms than agree to this plan!"
"It might be best you take the good lady with you. And we still need to convince King Deep Rock. He does not know Snowflake is also married to Goldenblood, and the child will not be a rightful king unless Goldenblood believes it to be his own."
Destiny gasps as he removes the arrow
"Do not do it. DO NOT TAKE THAT DEAL!"
>>74388
>>74389
Dolce gets back up, without much pain or scarring to speak of.
>>74392
"I cannot permit it. I will not stand by and watch as Deep Rock's BASTARD CHILD defiles the throne of Wintersgrasp. I'd rather lead the armies of Canterlot here myself to raze BOTH kingdoms than agree to this plan!"
>>74405
You open up the wound.
Not the one in his hoof. The one in his very soul.
>>74409
>>74402
"I cannot go back if you do this."
He removes Foerist from his belt and drops it
"Do with it as you will, but I cannot return to Wintersgrasp if I know it will cease to exist the moment the next king rises to the throne.
I will find some place. Some purpose. Some new path for myself. But I cannot with a pure heart return, knowing my actions would doom the entire kingdom to merging with Ironfoe."
You open up the wound.
Not the one in his hoof. The one in his very soul.
>>74409
>>74402
"I cannot go back if you do this."
He removes Foerist from his belt and drops it
"Do with it as you will, but I cannot return to Wintersgrasp if I know it will cease to exist the moment the next king rises to the throne.
I will find some place. Some purpose. Some new path for myself. But I cannot with a pure heart return, knowing my actions would doom the entire kingdom to merging with Ironfoe."
>>74433
"You.. but… I… THE LIGHTS, THEY…"
He manifests his sword of light
"I! I AM! I…"
He then shatters it against the floor
"I am so lost… I have devoted so much of my heart to Wintersgrasp… I have let what I thought was the light of my heart guide me… but… now I see it can not have been so. There must be some higher meaning to all this. To all the answers to my prayers…"
He wipes away a tear
"Perhaps… perhaps I was being hasty… I will stand with you. For the good of the citizens of Wintersgrasp. We must work together for the greater good."
You have convinced Destiny to join your side.
You may now proceed to the throne room.
"You.. but… I… THE LIGHTS, THEY…"
He manifests his sword of light
"I! I AM! I…"
He then shatters it against the floor
"I am so lost… I have devoted so much of my heart to Wintersgrasp… I have let what I thought was the light of my heart guide me… but… now I see it can not have been so. There must be some higher meaning to all this. To all the answers to my prayers…"
He wipes away a tear
"Perhaps… perhaps I was being hasty… I will stand with you. For the good of the citizens of Wintersgrasp. We must work together for the greater good."
You have convinced Destiny to join your side.
You may now proceed to the throne room.
>>74459
The actual Shadow Song hops down from her perch, and her shadow vanishes from near the wall
"To protect my home. Nothing more."
>>74461
"I am an assassin, a spy and a sentinel. Nothing more."
>>74463
Destiny seems thoughtful
"Perhaps there is a higher force still at work here…"
Shadow Song checks her bow
"Were I given free reign, I'd suggest an arrow between the eyes. I am not fond of his attitude as of late. He seems to think the chaos in Wintersgrasp would be a good chance to attack them."
>>74465
>>74467
"I can arrange you some private time with her, but that is all."
>>74469
"Or I can drag you in in shackles and lead the king elsewhere to discuss your punishment. But whatever we do, you cannot leave without me, unless you want to fight your way through the Elite Guard."
The actual Shadow Song hops down from her perch, and her shadow vanishes from near the wall
"To protect my home. Nothing more."
>>74461
"I am an assassin, a spy and a sentinel. Nothing more."
>>74463
Destiny seems thoughtful
"Perhaps there is a higher force still at work here…"
Shadow Song checks her bow
"Were I given free reign, I'd suggest an arrow between the eyes. I am not fond of his attitude as of late. He seems to think the chaos in Wintersgrasp would be a good chance to attack them."
>>74465
>>74467
"I can arrange you some private time with her, but that is all."
>>74469
"Or I can drag you in in shackles and lead the king elsewhere to discuss your punishment. But whatever we do, you cannot leave without me, unless you want to fight your way through the Elite Guard."