The party face their most dangerous challenges of Heskan's trial
Score: 319 | 01/09/20 |
17/08/300 (morning)
Following the danger of the fight against the image of Ban Lior,the group gathered up and headed along more dangerous passes. They tied ropes around themselves but fatigue set in and as Braith and Elnorin slipped from the mountain, only the quickest of reactions saved the ranger as her knots came untied. Huge effort from Bankanir, Ruric and Heskan kept the pair alive. They were pulled back from the drop and the group continued on.
At the next rise crystalline trees stood, formed of ice, as arrows flew out of nowhere. The images became more realistic at this layer as a member of the Wild Hunt (or rather an image of one) attacked with their companion. These beings were more whole than the ones before and it wasn't long before magic caused most of the group to be pinned to the ceiling. Bankanir slew the caster, dropping everyone back to the floor, and winning this battle. The group lay near broken, exhausted and not yet at the peak.
Elnorin, who had turned into an elemental, lifted everyone up to the rise. As images of Ashkeeper emerged from the snow, Ruric went to kick one. As he slipped up he landed on the powdery surface. As he was helped up, an image of himself, charred and angry, rose with him. Ruric, the bearer of Ashkeeper battled the party. A wall of fire provided much needed assistance as the potential of a fully unleashed Ashkeeper nearly turned Ruric to ash.
As the battle neared it's conclusion the fiery wall enveloped Heskan and the fake Ruric. Here the paladin was goaded but before he was struck down, Elnorin walked through the fires. Inspiring his companions to bravery and perseverance finished the trial for Heskan.
An image of Abzu arose from the snow, speaking messages to the group.
To Heskan Abzu gave a message that he was beginning to understand that a paladin was more than just a fighter with power but a beacon to inspire others to greatness.
To Ruric he said that the dwarf wasn't broken by what had happened to him but was, instead, a unique being of strength from his trials.
Braith was warned of the rot in Vannin, that she must unite the 'lights' of the Vannin people to stem the corruption.
Bankanir was spoken to quietly. Braith caught some words implying that Arinet was at peace and that he should not waste her sacrifice.
Elnorin was told that the inhabitants beneath the mountain, who moved into Eboracum after the dwarves left, would interest him. He was also told that the Wild Hunt was abroad and making deals.
The group got back down from the peak and were given food for their exhausted state. Heskan spent time in reflection. The rest of the day passed quietly.
18/08/300
Perra and Heskan speak for a while about his trial and how far he has come.
The group discuss their next moves. They will head under the mountain...