Session 78 - Civil War - Epilogue

Heroes: Amani, Ansen, Ardreth, Emmalia, Laile, Regall

673 MR - Winter

The heroes enter the lair of the Spider and confront the ancient monster. After a fierce and bloody battle, they succeed in defeating the creature of shadow. When given the chance to plunge her magical dagger into the creature's heart, Amani refuses. 

Ansen delivers the final blow instead, causing the Spider's bloodline to dissipate and vanish. As Amani's dagger screams in rage and pain, she hears Anomander's voice whispering in her thoughts.

Why have you betrayed me?

Session 77

Heroes: Amani, Ansen, Ardreth, Emmalia, Regall

673 MR - Winter

The party has taken refuge for the winter in Castle Ghieste, located in Alamie. With the rebel dukes aligning with Amani controlling the north and the southern conflicts easing due to the harsh winter, the heroes shift their focus to the Spiderfell.

They assemble a modest band of warriors and embark on a journey into the spider-infested woods to confront the monstrous Spider. Within the ominous forest, they must traverse a labyrinth of unmarked trails, where each arachnid serves as a sentinel for the forest's malevolent ruler.

Guided by the mystical hunger of Amani's enchanted dagger, the heroes venture deeper into the heart of the woods. Along the way, they are ambushed by a squadron of goblins mounted on spiders, accompanied by hobgoblins and fiendish gnolls.

Session 76

Heroes: Amani, Ansen, Emmalia, Laile, Regall

673 MR - Autumn

Overthane Brokk Hammerfist, a masterful blacksmith, possesses a unique talent for imbuing his creations with magical dwarven runes. This extraordinary ability, known as Hammerfist, channels molten metal through his very hands, granting his works a remarkable potency.

Among his showcased creations stands the Dwarvenforge Engine, a sentient siege tower mounted on wheels, capable of autonomous combat. However, during a demonstration, the Engine malfunctions, turning hostile and launching an assault on the assembled nobility. Promptly, the Heroes intervene, engaging in a fierce battle until they successfully subdue the rogue Engine.

Impressed by the Heroes' prowess, Brokkr expresses his satisfaction and extends an offer of alliance. Additionally, he presents them with his latest invention, the Dusk Crusher—a weapon meticulously crafted to vanquish Shadow creatures. With plans to confront the Spider looming, the Heroes eagerly agree to put the Dusk Crusher to the test.

Session 75

Heroes: Amani, Ansen, Ardreth, Regall

673 MR - Autumn

The party solidifies an alliance with the kingdom of Sielwode, where the elves pledge their support to the Roele family in their struggle against the Shadow. Additionally, they promise safe passage through their territory via specially constructed roads. Amani, as the heir of Roele, vows not to obstruct the reclamation of the former Shadow Forest from the House of Galanohel.

In an unexpected twist, Adara Cuamhyrcha, once an emissary of Rhuobhe the Manslayer and now a guest of the Emerald Court, is tasked with reclaiming and nurturing the Shadow Forest.

Amidst the festivities celebrating this alliance, the party encounters Diirk Watershold, guildmaster of the Royal Guild of Baruk-Azhik. The dwarf extends an invitation to visit his realm, where the newly elected overthane is eager to meet them and explore potential collaboration.

After settling their affairs in Sielwode, the party travels to Baruk-Azhik, the ancestral homeland of the dwarves, where they meet with Overthane Brokkr Hammerfist.

Session 74

Heroes: Amani, Ansen, Ardreth, Emmalia, Laile, Regall

673 MR - Summer

The party deliberates on how to permanently dismantle the portal to the Shadowfell. Realizing the immense resources required exceed their willingness to sacrifice, they opt to seal the portal using potent warding magic.

Upon returning to Cariele, they encounter Ardreth, an envoy hailing from the Feywild, specifically the fey domain of Lluabraight. Queen Llaeddra has dispatched this valiant warrior to the mortal realm to assess the fate of her former abode. Finding common cause with the party in their ongoing battle against the Shadow, Ardreth joins forces with them, especially considering their forthcoming diplomatic venture to the elven realm of Sielwode.

673 MR - Autumn

The party finds themselves in the court of the Emerald Queen, Isaelie Galanohel. Within her enchanting crystal palace, aglow with the radiance of a solitary candle, they lay the groundwork for an alliance with the elves. The faerie folk harbor no fondness for the Exalt-Emperor of Anuire, whose relentless pursuit has haunted their kind for decades.

Session 73

Heroes: Amani, Ansen, Emmalia, Morwen, Regall

673 MR - Summer

The party, determined to confront the heart of evil within the Shadow Forest before the undead armies can strengthen their ranks, devises a strategic plan for entry.

Amani reveals one of the gifts bestowed upon her by Anomander to her companions: a coin adorned with the imagery of a medusa and an elf. Drawing from their collective knowledge of past events, they begin to suspect the resurgence of ancient villains.

With a blend of stealth tactics and the aid of sun magic, the party navigates through the shadow-infested forest, either evading detection or holding the creatures at bay.

Their journey leads them to the Thorn Throne, where they encounter Talerdigh, now an undead entity consumed by malevolence and driven by a thirst for revenge, guarding a portal to the Shadowfell. Battle is joined, and the heroes emerge victorious, albeit with the tragic loss of Morwen in the fray.

Upon Talerdigh's defeat, a manifestation of Azariel, the prince of lies, emerges from the portal, issuing menacing threats of vengeance against the heroes.

Simultaneously, Amani discerns Anomander's voice, expressing satisfaction with their progress. With Talerdigh vanquished, Anomander will soon gain access to the portal previously controlled by his captors. However, Amani realizes that additional power is necessary, power she can provide by defeating the Spider.

Session 72

Heroes: Amani, Ansen, Emmalia, Laile, Morwen, Regall

673 MR - Summer

The Heroes persist in their negotiations with the Duke of Cariele, though progress seems halted. Recognizing the stalemate, Laile employs her magical abilities to infiltrate the Duke's dreams. There, she uncovers his deepest dread: the looming threat of the Shadow Forest and its spectral inhabitants.

Prince Fhileraene Llyrandor

Armed with this knowledge, the party attempts to sway the Duke by exploiting his fears. However, their plans are interrupted by a harrowing event. Shadows materialize within the Duke's court, claiming the lives of several guardsmen, and heralding the appearance of a more ominous specter. It is the ghastly, undead form of the Knight of Thorns, once Prince Fhileraene Llyrandor of Tuarhievel. He delivers a dire ultimatum to the Duke: surrender Amani and Regall, or face utter destruction by sundown.

Undeterred, the Heroes rally the Duke's trust, urging him to place faith in their strategy as they prepare the city for the impending undead onslaught.

In the ensuing clash, the party confronts the undead horde head-on, taking the fight directly to the Knight of Thorns. Through valor and skill, they vanquish his undead minions and ultimately lay the tormented soul of the elven prince to rest by destroying his undead vessel.

Session 71 - Civil War

Heroes: Amani, Ansen, Emmalia, Laile, Morwen, Regall

673 MR - Summer

The civil war rages on in Anuire, with the Hearthlands firmly backing Amani as their chosen leader. The Alamie, Tieghan, and Mhoried families stand steadfast against the factions in the south, while the threat from the Northern realms looms large for Amani's supporters.

Within the walls of Seaharrow castle, Duke Regall of Boeruine and Princess Amani, the true heir of the Roele bloodline, strategize with their loyal allies for the road ahead. Ansen and Laile Tieghan, accompanied by their mother Duchess Erin, pledge their unwavering support to the cause, while Morwen, Amani's sister, stands resolute by her side, prepared for the trials of battle. Meanwhile, the enchantress Emmalia, sent by Queen Niobhe, watches over the court, safeguarding the future empress and Niobhe's son from the shadows that threaten their safety.

Their collective decision is to embark on a diplomatic mission aimed at garnering the allegiance of the northern realms. Their journey leads them to Talinie, where the Cardinal-Duchess expresses willingness to remain neutral in exchange for the preservation of her titles and lands.

However, negotiations in Cariele prove to be more challenging. The cunning Cardinal-Duke seeks advantageous marriages for his numerous offspring, driving a hard bargain that tests the patience of Amani's delegation. Tensions flare as Morwen's fiery temperament clashes with the Duke of Cariele's slippery tactics, yet discussions persist as both sides strive for resolution.

Session 70 - The Ring of Winter - Epilogue

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Gwyn, Siobhan, Ryel, Varri

673 MR - Winter

The Heroes, accompanied by Gregor and Drago, lead a squadron of wyvern riders toward the mountain, deftly evading the dragonnels attempting interception. Amidst several heavily guarded entrances, they discern a small aperture atop the mountain, inaccessible to orogs and wyverns alike. Opting for this risky path, they leave their mounts behind and venture into the tunnel.

Navigating through vast caverns and eluding confrontations with the tunnel's dragonnel inhabitants, they eventually reach a cavernous chamber, unmistakably the lair of the dragon. The cave gleams with untold riches, including a platinum crown adorned with enchanting dragon motifs and magical diamonds. Gregor identifies the crown as the mountain's power source, guarded by Vore Lekiniskiy, the ancient and formidable Dragon of Vstaive Peak.

While some heroes distract the dragon, luring it away, Siobhan employs her magic to create a portal for Gregor to secure the crown safely. As Gregor attunes to its power, the Heroes valiantly fend off threats to buy him time. Drago, driven by a thirst for glory, confronts the dragon directly and meets his demise.

With the crown's power harnessed, Gregor binds the dragonnels to his will, enraging the Dragon, who sets course for the city of Polovtsiya in a destructive frenzy.

Mounted on dragonnels, the Heroes, alongside allies Targov and Belytigr, engage in a harrowing aerial battle against the colossal beast. Through relentless combat, they emerge victorious as Deet's arrow pierces the Dragon's heart, shattering the orogs' resolve and securing victory for Vosgaard's future.

Following the battle's aftermath, the fate of Vosgaard unfolds:

Kira inherits her father's axe, assuming leadership of the Belytigr as the new warlord. She has no desire to rule a country, preferring to focus on martial pursuits while entrusting political matters to Gregor, with her mother Neeva continuing her role as shaman and seer.

Voron and Alyona jointly lead the Temple of Might, their partnership strengthened by their shared affection. Alyona, now a high-priestess, dismisses the curse affecting Kamil. Brother and sisters embraced each other, all past slights forgiven.

As king, Gregor taps into the crown's power, unlocking his parents' lineage to become full-fledged Ersheghlien (blood of light), in the form of silver-scaled dragons, safeguarding Vstaive Peak.

Accepting Gregor's proposal, Deet marries him beneath the wintry sky, blessed by both Targov and Belytigr. Vosgaard stands unified, prepared to confront the looming threat foreseen across Cerilia.

Session 69

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Gwyn, Siobhan, Ryel, Varri

673 MR - Winter

The party orchestrates a crucial meeting between the Targov and the Belytigr, culminating in a historic agreement. The pact entails a union of the bloodlines, where the heirs from both families will jointly govern a unified Vos land. Drago, impassioned by the quest for glory, insists that the Heroes accompany him into the dragon's lair to confront the beast and etch his name into legend.

Despite the alliance's promise, Gregor remains steadfast in his reluctance to wed Kira, as his heart remains entwined with Deet. He harbors aspirations of claiming the power beneath the mountain for himself, adamantly avoiding any entanglements with the Belytigr.

With tensions escalating, the horde is permitted entry into the city, but a formidable contingent of the army positions itself outside to confront the orogs head-on. The battlefield erupts into chaos as the Heroes valiantly defend the city gates, simultaneously paving a perilous path towards the mountain by subduing the opposition.

Session 68

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Gwyn, Siobhan, Ryel

673 MR - Winter

Siobhan aids the Targov in their ritual, where she senses a formidable power residing within the Mountain, accompanied by a fearsome guardian safeguarding it. Realizing the perilous toll the ritual takes on Darya and Danil, she fears for their survival in further attempts.

As the Horde advances towards Polovtsiya, revelations surface of Neeva maintaining clandestine communication with her daughter Kira through a dream spell. Meanwhile, Alyona, spurred by ambition, orchestrates a daring plan to ascend as the new high-priestess of the Temple of Might. With Queen Ekaterina's endorsement, she ventures out on wyvern-back, infiltrating the Horde's encampment. There, she forges an alliance with Voron, scion of Drago and a devout priest of Belinik.

In the ensuing confrontation, Alyona and Voron challenge Petra and Barak for dominance over the Temple of Might. Empowered by the Ring of Winter, they emerge victorious, wresting control of the temple.

As night falls, Deet and Gregor finalize their mission plans when the Mountain's peak erupts, revealing its true nature as a volcano. Utilizing potent magic, the rulers of Zoloskaya shield the city from the ensuing ash cloud. Subsequently, the heroes take flight on wyverns to investigate, only to witness a horde of orogs, goblins, trolls, and other monstrous entities pouring forth from the mountain, converging on Polovtsiya.

With the city besieged by both the White Tiger's Horde and this newfound threat, the awakening of the long-dormant guardian beneath the Mountain compounds their peril.

Session 67

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Gwyn, Siobhan, Ryel

673 MR - Winter

In the courtroom, Kira stands defiant as the regents present their proposal for an alliance through marriage. With a scoff, she derides their intentions, accusing the Targov of cowardice for seeking peace when they know victory in war is beyond their grasp. Faced with the threat of further imprisonment, Kira counters with her own terms: if the Targov truly desire an alliance with the Belytigr, they must permit the Horde to enter their capital city. The regents, taken aback, retreat to ponder her audacious proposition.

Meanwhile, Siobhan finds herself approached by Danil and Darya, the enigmatic twin siblings, who seek her assistance in an arcane ritual aimed at unlocking the ancient power hidden beneath the mountain, rumored to be the domain of an ancient dragon. Upon completion, the regents will undergo a transformation, transcending into dragons themselves. Though hesitant at first, Siobhan agrees to relay the request to the rest of the party for deliberation.

Elsewhere, Alyona's efforts to heal Kamil are thwarted by a curse requiring the intervention of a High Priestess. Determined to lift the curse, she devises a bold plan to challenge Petra to a duel for control of the Church of Kriesha, finding a willing ally in the queen herself.

In the quiet moments shared between Deet and Gregor, their burgeoning affection for one another blossoms during a private dinner. Gregor, baring his soul, reveals his intention to journey to the mountain alone to claim the power his parents seek, in a bid to prove himself to both them and his nation. Moved by his conviction, Deet pledges her support for his quest.

As the party convenes to weigh their options, the urgency of their situation looms large. With Kamil's health deteriorating rapidly and the threat of the Horde looming, consensus is elusive but action imperative. Their next move will shape the fate of kingdoms and individuals alike, demanding unity and resolve in the face of impending crisis.

Session 66

City of Polovtsiya

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Gwyn, Siobhan, Ryel, Varri 

673 MR - Winter

Kira, the daughter of Drago, finds herself confined by the party. They secure her pledge not to attempt an escape, granting her permission to ride her tiger mount.

Upon reaching Polovtsiya, the capital of Zoloskaya, the party encounters a bustling city, protected by formidable walls and knights mounted on wyverns.

Within the city, they chance upon an Anuirean merchant dealing in magical components. Intrigued, Siobahn persuades him to present the party as highly skilled mercenaries to the regents.

Under the cloak of night, Siobhan and Ryel stealthily infiltrate the merchant's vessel, the Magic Missile, pilfering a trove of arcane tomes and scrolls.

The following day, the party is formally introduced to the Targov family. The monarchs, blessed with powerful divinatory abilities through their lineage, reveal that they had anticipated the party's arrival.

They disclose their intention to forge an alliance between their dynasty and the Belytigr through marriage, a plan facilitated by the party's unexpected arrival with Kira, Drago's daughter, fulfilling their needs perfectly.

Session 65

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Gwyn, Siobhan, Ryel, Varri 

673 MR - Winter

As the city of Vstaive slowly regains its footing in the aftermath of the Targov attack, Gwyn seeks counsel from High-Priestess Petra. There, she learns distressing news: Kamil, Deet's brother, has been abducted and taken to Zoloskaya alongside Raisa, a priestess held dear by Petra herself.

Determined to rescue Kamil, the party resolves to depart Vstaive for Zoloskaya. Along the way, they venture into the city's fighting pits, where they encounter a goblin guide by the name of Pox.

Setting out from Vstaive, the party soon finds themselves pursued by a relentless hunting party. Evading their pursuers for days, they ultimately turn the tables, launching a daring ambush. In a fierce battle, the party triumphs, decimating their foes and leaving only their leader, Kira, daughter of warlord Drago, alive.

Recognizing the strategic value of their captive, the party opts to hold Kira hostage, intending to wield her as leverage against both Drago and the Targov. With their sights set on Zoloskaya and the rescue of Kamil, they press onward, their resolve steeled by the trials that lie ahead.

Session 64

City of Vstaive

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Ryel, Varri

673 MR - Autumn

The party stealthily infiltrates Vstaive, a sprawling war camp teeming with diverse tribes, from Vos to Khinasi, and from goblins to orogs. Mindful of attracting the attention of warlord Drago and the formidable priesthood of the Church of Might, they opt to keep a low profile for the time being.

While their companions set up camp, Alyona seeks out a secluded spot to perform a divinatory ritual. Intent on leveraging the power of the Ring of Winter to ascend to the position of high-priestess, she implores her goddess for insight into her future. The deity's response urges her to aspire even higher and unveils a prophetic vision:

Amidst the barren tundra, white tigers clash with silver dragons, only to be overshadowed by the sudden emergence of a towering ice mountain. Within its icy heart lies a hidden trove of unparalleled power.

Meanwhile, Deet and Ryel conspire to seize the ring from Alyona under the cover of nightfall. As the party settles in for sleep, they set their plan in motion, only to find themselves transformed into ice statues by the Ring's potent magic.

Amidst this chaos, disaster strikes as the Targov launch a fierce assault on Vstaive. Mounted atop wyverns, the organized forces of Zoloskaya rain down fiery destruction upon the city, plunging it into turmoil. Leading the charge are two knights wielding formidable magical abilities, riding silver-backed wyverns.

Forced into the fray, the party fights desperately for survival. Alyona restores Deet and Ryel to their mortal forms, but her act of mercy is met with betrayal as Deet turns on her own sister, prompting Alyona to defend herself, nearly delivering a fatal blow.

As the battle rages on, warlord Drago takes to the battlefield alongside his wife, Neeva the witch. With the Targov forces having inflicted significant damage, they issue a dire ultimatum before retreating:

"Vacate these lands, or face the wrath of the Argent Fire unleashed by the Silver Dragons!"

Session 63

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Gwyn, Siobhan, Ryel, Varri

673 MR - Autumn

Departing from Mandal, the party heads northward toward Folda Fjord, where Gwyn's warband, under the leadership of the formidable warleader Anatoli, awaits her return. However, upon arrival, they discover that Anatoli's warband has ruthlessly occupied a peaceful fishermen village, enslaving the inhabitants. Varri, disapproving of the warriors' actions, challenges Anatoli to a duel in a valiant attempt to halt the violence. Varri emerges victorious, ensuring the villagers' safety and putting an end to their suffering.

Embarking on Anatoli's drakkar, the party's journey takes them to Kopingdal in Hjolvar, a bustling port-town. After resupplying and taking some much-needed rest, they bid farewell to the Rjurik lands.

Their next destination is the infamous port of Alber in Grabentod, a haven for pirates and criminals. In an effort to rein in the warband's more primal instincts, the party spends several days navigating the treacherous environment of crime and lawlessness.

Continuing their maritime odyssey, they make a brief stop at the Gnoll Fens, a savage territory infested by malevolent tribes of gnolls and goblins. Choosing a defensible position, the party resupplies while keeping the lurking evil humanoids at bay.

Their journey then leads them to Petropavinsk in the realm of Lutkhovsky—a mere lumber camp with a scattering of fisheries.

Finally, after weeks at sea, they arrive at Yeninskiy, the former home of Deet and Alyona. Leaving the drakkar behind, they navigate the region to reach Vstaive, the seat of power of the White Tiger clan, marking the concluding chapter of their extensive maritime expedition.

Session 62

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Gwyn, Siobhan, Ryel

673 MR - Summer 

The culmination of their trials arrives as the party confronts and triumphs over the final challenge—the Test of Preservation. The Vault's gates swing open, revealing the ominous artifact they sought: the Ring of Winter, once in the possession of the nefarious White Witch.

With cautious steps, the party approaches the coveted ring, mindful of potential traps, both magical and mundane. To their surprise, the acquisition is surprisingly uneventful. However, as they prepare to depart the frost-kissed vault, a beguiling voice creeps into the minds of the Vos members—Alyona, Deet, and Gwyn. The Goddess of Winter extends an enticing offer, tempting them to risk their lives for her elusive blessing. Despite reservations, Alyona and Gwyn agree, and to the party's astonishment, even Deet succumbs to the allure.

Regrettably, the trio fails to contain the icy power of the goddess, transmuting into statues of frozen beauty.

Unwilling to surrender to this cruel fate, Ryel, a master of shadows, weaves the darkness around him, invoking dark powers to aid him. The mysterious Anomander answers his call, proposing a deal. In exchange for Ryel's service and descent into further corruption, Anomander will spare one of the three. Opting for Alyona's survival, Ryel succumbs to the shadowy entity's influence. His form undergoes a feral transformation—wolfish and ominous, with talons and fangs.

Restored to life by the Ring's magic, Alyona utilizes its power to reverse the icy petrification of both Deet and Gwyn. However, the newfound possession sparks tension within the party, leading to a brief skirmish. When the echoes of the clash subside, the adventurers choose a path of reason. They opt to discuss the matter civilly, seeking resolution rather than allowing discord to consume their newfound unity.

Session 61

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Ryel, Varri

673 MR - Summer 

The party steps foot into the formidable fortress of Grimskalle, an imposing castle hewn from ice, its architectural splendor resembling a colossal crowned skull. As they traverse the ancient halls, their exploration leads them to a chance encounter with Ertgard, a venerable frost giant yearning for a final battle and a heroic demise. Diplomacy proves to be their weapon of choice as they adeptly persuade the giant that they, too, are devoted servants of the same enigmatic mistress. With this newfound understanding, the colossal guardian grants them permission to continue their exploration within the icy stronghold.

Delving further, the intrepid adventurers descend into a frozen cavern where an unexpected ally awaits—Ukuma, a sentient and conversant giant walrus. Ukuma proves to be a fount of valuable information, elucidating the party on the crucial steps required to access the vault harboring the coveted Ring of Winter. The creature reveals that overcoming the challenges posed by the four tests of the Ice Lady is the key to unlocking the path to the coveted artifact.

Radiating from the main cavern like frozen tendrils, four distinct doors beckon the party towards the harrowing trials: Cruelty, Endurance, Isolation, and the final challenge, Preservation. With mettle and determination, the adventurers face and conquer the tests of Cruelty, proving their resilience in the face of frigid adversity. The test of Endurance sees them braving the harshest wintry conditions, emerging triumphant against all odds. Isolation tests the bonds of camaraderie, yet the party's unity prevails.

Now, as they stand on the precipice of the last trial, the door to Preservation beckons—an enigma that holds the promise of untold revelations and, perhaps, the ultimate key to the Ring of Winter's sanctuary.

Session 60

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Siobhan, Ryel, Varri

673 MR - Summer 

The party engages in a fierce battle against the formidable Vos warriors, emerging victorious in the wilderness. Puzzled by how they were discovered, they ponder the intricacies of tracking in the wild.

Continuing their journey for several more weeks, they eventually arrive at the snow-covered ruins of Mandal. Even in the midst of summer, an unnatural blanket of snow shrouds the city, hinting at a lingering malevolence. Navigating the forsaken streets with caution, the party stealthily maneuvers to avoid the few monstrous remnants that still haunt the desolate city. 

Suddenly faced with a perilous encounter, the party decides to ambush a group of ice trolls in the snowy expanse. Though successfully catching the trolls off guard, their actions attract the attention of an unexpected threat—a frost salamander. Despite the arduous struggle that depletes the party's resources, they emerge triumphant from the challenging confrontation. 

However, the commotion proves to be a double-edged sword as it draws the attention of the undead denizens of Mandal. Slowly but relentlessly, they approach the party. In a desperate bid for safety, the adventurers identify the fortified remnants of the White Witch fortress on the horizon and make a frantic dash towards it, seeking refuge from the encroaching menace.

Session 59 - The Ring of Winter

Heroes: Alyona, Deet, Gwyn, Siobhan, Ryel, Varri

673 MR - Summer

Deet and Ryel return to the Giantdowns, at the court of High King Sigurd. Deet has decided to try and save her brother Kamil, who is a prisoner of the priesthood of Kriesha, back in her home realm of Yeninskiy. She knows that her sister Alyona, who is currently in a cell in the dungeons of King Sigurd, can guide her to the place where Kamil is kept. But to obtain the release of Kamil, the priestesses of Kriesha demand to obtain the Ring of Winter.

This is a powerful, evil artefact once owned but the White Witch, and presumed lost after her demise. Varri and Siobhan agree to accompany Deet in her quest. Unknown to Deet, they're also tasked by King Sigurd to make sure that the Ring does not travel to Vosgaard, but is delivered to him.

Gwyn is a Temple Assassin sent to the Giantdowns by the priesthood of Kriesha to perform a secret mission related to Alyona. She manages to sneak inside the castle, and free Alyona, though the two women decide to remain in the dungeons to not rouse suspicions. When Deet finally decides to have Alyona officialy released, the party gathers up and they make preparations to travel to Mandal, the formel capital of the Realm of the White Witch.

Having crossed the Silverhead Mountains, they're met by the archdruid Huralla. She hears of their quest, and shares some information about the possible whereabouts of the Ring. She tells them that Mandal is now a ruin infested by undead creatures, former servants of the White Witch. She directs them to seek the fortress of Grimskalle, the lair of a powerful frost giantess that served the White Witch in life. Then she leaves with her pack of wolves.

While the party is camped for the night in a cave, a Vos warband emerges from the snowy forest and attacks.