The Ice Cave continued...

Quick Links

Creep past the Yeti

Crossing the Chasm

Ambush at the Pit

Chasm Battle Round 2

Deeper into the Cave

The Ice Pool

Securing the Area

Player Replies to posts

Creep past the Yeti

You hear low grunts and growls coming from the bone room. It sounds like something is in the room, searching and sniffing. You also hear a low voice speaking somewhere distant in the cave. You can't make out what it's saying but it appears to be talking to someone or something.

Dorf grabs the shield, a whetstone, blue potion, and a few coins.

“Plenty here for everyone.”

Then moves away to make room for the others. Puts his loot into his pack except for the shield which he tries on. Then readies his main weapon to stand guard while the others loot.

Mutt freezes momentarily, his eyes wide as the roar seems to be getting louder. Hastily stuffing his picks from the chest into his he tries to lift it and frowns. Rummaging through his pack with a grumble, he pulls out several scraps of fur and tosses them to the side. Removing two more jars of lamp oil, he presses them in Uptharr’s hands and motions to the hooded lantern.

“You may need these more than I will.”

Uptharr takes the jars of lamp oil from Mutt, nodding his understanding and appreciation.

"Thanks, Mutt. These could be the difference between life and darkness in these caves," he says, gripping the lantern a bit more tightly, ready for whatever lies ahead.

Mutt, Turning back to his pack he removes two healing potions and hands one to Dorf, stuffing the other in an easy to reach pocket.

“You might also need this if our luck continues the way it’s been going.”

Mutt smiles and claps the Halfling on the shoulder. Lifting his pack again, he nods and throws it back over his shoulders.

“Right. Now, how quiet sneaky can you all be?”

Mutt eyes Dorf and Uptharr with some concern and tries to put on a confident smile.

Dorf grins when Mutt puts the healing potion in his hands and gives Mutt a warm handshake.

“Thank you VERY much!” he says in a quiet whisper.

He puts it in a special pocket in his pack for easy access. Readies his new shield and main axe and prepares to bravely face whatever befalls his newfound friends next. (Determined to protect them at any cost to himself)

"Well should I sneak nearer to the front of the tunnel? If we are going to try to sneak past them we should be ready to go, the chasm tunnel wasn’t that long…"

With the growls and voices echoing down the cave walls, Azalie falls to her knees and whips her pack open. Grabbing the jar, lamp oil, and ripped a piece of hemp fabric. She creating a mini alchemist's fire grenade. She's used this party trick before. Hopefully it will give them a little time or at least the element of surprise.

"shhhhh...we have to try and get out of here without being seen. There's only two ways from them to come looking. Let's hope they go towards to chasm."

She remembers a time when she saw others come against a huge Ice creature. There was some sort of speech then too. If she could only make out what it was saying. (Insight check = 22) Azalie hears the low voice echo, and is almost positive it sounds like a Frost Giant`s speech.

"I can be sneaky! Mushrooms can be very hard to catch if you are not super quiet!"

Fizz smiles at his silliness, and then sees Azalie making her little bomb and is instantly distracted.

"What is that!!!?" Walking over to peer at it, his eyes get sad as she puts it away. "Can you make me one someday? I'd be very careful, I Promise!"

As Azalie finishes up her little bomb, her memories confirm her fears. She takes a hard swallow of nothing as her mouth is bone dry. Whispering lightly, but loudly enough for the others to hear the crack in her voice,

She is so focused on making the bomb, plus a bit distracted at the growls coming from the bone room, she doesn't respond to Fizzbum's comment.

"We need to get out of here! That's an Ice Giant and he's not alone. We haven't the time to rest and he's only got a 50/50 shot at getting the wrong tunnel."

Looking at Mutt with encouragement, "Would you join me in sneaking down to see if we can make out their shadows? We have to stick together, but these fellas' are a little clangy." motioning to Uptharr and Fizz, "if you know what I mean?"

(Dorf Stealth Check: 8)

(Azalie Stealth Check: 22)

(Mutt Stealth Check: 24)

(Fizzbum Stealth Check: 11)

(Uptharr Stealth Check: 14)

Dorf tries to be quiet, but as he is preparing his gear to depart, he bumps the chest, the lid falls with a loud CLANG that echoes through the hallway.

As Azalie finishes her sentence and hears the clang, her face gets long and she slowly sinks to the floor, planting her face on the ground, and starts twirling her hair for comfort. Dorf looks up at the party sheepishly.

"Well, at least we go out with treasure."

Mutt, his frustration evident, can't help but comment on the noise, his words a mix of disbelief and worry.

"How can someone so small make so much noise?!"

Mutt sighs and shakes his head. He pulls his hood up and tries to meld in with shadows around the cavern, waiting to see if anything reacts to the noise.

Mutt motions to Azalie to hide nearby. Turning to the rest of the group, he motions for them to hide, stay out of sight, and to BE QUIET, using a series of hand gestures to convey his intent.

Fizzbum looks around at the surprised faces, after the chest lid slams shut. Mutt's call from behind him gets his attention this time, and he grins as he watches Mutt blend into the shadows.

"No problem!"

Fizzbum takes a little skip and walks directly behind Mutt, hiding behind his long legs.

"You are kinda shady lookin. I like it!" he whispers.

Uptharr, sensing the gravity of their situation, nods solemnly in agreement with Azalie's plan.

"Alright," he says in a low, controlled voice, "we'll move towards the chasm as quietly as we can. Stealth is key now. Let's stay close and watch each other's backs."

Stealth Success:

In near silence, the party cautiously makes their way back to the main chamber, each step deliberate to avoid any sound. As they reach the main chamber, they stay hidden in the shadows, their eyes fixed on a lone Yeti rummaging through the bone pile, desperately searching for food.

It growls a few more times in frustration, and sniffs the air.

The group holds their breath, barely moving, as they watch the Yeti. Its massive form shifts and turns amongst the bones, unaware of the silent observers. The moment is tense, but the party's careful movements pay off as they remain undetected. After a few heart-pounding moments, the Yeti grunts and lumbers away through the south passage, leaving the chamber eerily quiet once again.

With the immediate threat gone, the party advances down the tunnel to the north, reaching the edge of the chasm. The 10-foot wide gap yawns before them.

Here are two possible options the party could use to cross the chasm. You can also formulate a custom option, just be specific with how you intend to cross if not using one of the two methods below.

Jumping: (Athletics skill check) - Jumping across is possible, but one bad jump and you would plummet into the void. The chasm is 10 feet wide, so anyone with a 10 strength score or better can make the jump, however because the leap is on difficult terrain, and slippery floors, a bad athletics check could mean slipping and falling into the chasm.

Build a bridge: (With rope, pitons and a hammer, you could make a rope bridge, Survival skill check). The survival check will be made secretly by the DM, to determine how secure the bridge is. Characters crossing the rope bridge would have to hope the bridge holds their weight.

What do you do next?

30 minutes has passed

Current Time: 2:09 PM

Date: Fourthday , 4 , Alturiak , 1742

Temperature: 39°

Crossing the Chasm

Such big fangs and muscles Fizz thinks in awe, as the Yeti makes its way out of the cave. If only they could befriend him instead of fighting him, he would make an incredibly powerful ally! Of course we'd have to keep him from eating us after every long rest, but maybe with enough snacks he'd be ok!

As they all approach the chasm, Azalie takes a deep breath and says a few elven words of thanks.

“Good job at those mantis style moves. I have to tell you, I thought for sure that ice mephit was going to point us out.”

Azalie is so cold.

She starts thinking about what is waiting for her away from this dreadful place. Azalie is a fan of hot springs baths. They are so amazing, she looks off into the mist beyond the chasm, the warmth of the water all around her…what’s that smell!

Azalie looks down and notices she stepped in yeti skat. Can this day get any worse? She says out loud,

“well at least I’m not the Yeti shit.”

She instantly looks at the group hoping they didn’t hear her say that, Azalie wipes the scat from her shoe on a sharp rock near the cave wall. The cold breeze welling up from the chasm turning her nose redder and redder.

Uptharr lights his hooded lantern near Azalie

“The light provides warmth” he says with a half smile.

“Thanks. Sometimes what I’m thinking just pops right out of my mouth.”, she says.

Fizz follows the rest of the party back up the tunnel and starts to worry a bit as they approach the chasm.

"I'm a decent swimmer, but flying is a bit beyond me I think!"

He gets encouraged as the party begins to unravel rope and a net, hoping it will be enough to hold him as he crosses. He reaches up to scratch Lumpy and feed him the last of the grubs.

"Better hold on tight my friend. That looks to be a long drop!"

Happening on an inspiration, Fizz begins to circle among the party and bending over slightly, wave his staff over the boots and feet of his Ice cave friends. His staff glows a mossy green as he casts Guidance on each member, stopping for a moment in front of Uptharr.

"Don't think we've been properly introduced! I'm Fizzbum Lilypad, Druid of the Swamp! You look like you could step over that gap without jumping! But I'll give your boots a sparkle anyway!" Fizzbum grins and points his Mangrove staff at the Paladin's boots.

Uptharr reaches out his hand and shakes the Druid’s hand.

“Well met, Fizzbum, Druid of the Swamps. I have observed and appreciated your levity in these harsh times. I am Uptharr, Beacon of the Light…or was…years ago. Let’s get out of here and perhaps we can share our tales over some good drinks and better food.”

Fizzbum takes a few moments to cast guidance on each party member, giving them a boost to whatever they try to do.

“Fizz, are you against a good ole mushroom toss? We will make sure there’s a bedroll or a paladin to help dampen your fall. Hey, maybe you’ll bounce.” Azalie says jokingly with an eyebrow raise and an encouraging wink.

Inside she’s actually nervous. She’d hate to lose any of these fellas. With each passing second she has been blissfully unaware of her ever growing attachment. They barely know each other.

We got to move though, that’s for sure. Azalie believes Fizz is right. It’s too cold here for this to not be the right direction out of these caverns. (Perception check) The other tunnels didn’t have this bitter bite to it.

Dorf still feels bad about noisy chest and is determined to make up for it.

“I’ll jump over and secure a rope so that everyone else can cross safely. Or if you prefer I’ll stand guard while you all cross. Either way I think we had better not take too long to do it unless we want to fight that yeti.”

Dorf sets his backpack, and shield on the ground, and ties a rope in a double knot around himself (take 10 survival). He preps the ground where he will leap from, takes a deep breath and runs and leaps across the chasm. He easily clears the chasm by a good 3-4 feet. (Athletics check 25). He lands on a loose rock, loses his balance and tumbles to the ground. (Acrobatics check: 7), taking 1 point of damage from the hard landing.

Azalie waits patiently for Dorf to secure the rope to a stalagmite while she ties the other end around her waist at the midway point. Handing the remaining length to Uptharr,

she quips, "Can you hold onto this, just in case my dance moves fail me?"

accompanied by a bashful smile. Taking a brief running start, she gracefully leaps over the chasm, hair fluttering in the wind (athletics check 13). Despite the weight of her gear, she barely catches the edge of the chasm with her elven toes, executing a skillful roll and landing on one knee, her poise unwavering (Acrobatics check 17). After a moment's pause, she lifts her head with a triumphant smile.

Mutt takes precaution by wrapping his pack with a blanket for noise reduction before tossing it across. Securing the rope around his waist, he holds his breath and takes the leap. (Athletics check: 19) Effortlessly soaring over the chasm, he lands on the blanket laid out by Dorf beforehand. Despite the smooth landing, he stumbles forward, catching himself with both palms on the ground and ending up on his knees. (Acrobatics check: 8)

Fizz, swiftly secures the rope around his waist with an extra knot, tucking Lumpy snugly inside his shirt. Stepping back ten feet, he launches into a full sprint towards the daunting chasm. With a gnomish squeak that blends both effort and a hint of panic, he propels himself forward with all his might!

At the crucial moment, just as he begins his sprint, a chilling blast of icy breath from the mephit grazes the back of his neck. With a desperate lunge, Fizz manages to partially evade the frosty onslaught (Save Roll: 15, success), hurtling into the air. Despite his valiant effort, he falls short, unable to reach even halfway across the gap (Athletics roll: 7). Plummeting into the chasm, he descends roughly 20 feet until the rope suddenly pulls taut, swinging him sharply into the chasm wall.

The impact jolts Fizz, causing 4 damage from the icy blast, but his acrobatic instincts kick in. Skillfully maneuvering mid-air, he gracefully rebounds off the wall in a controlled repelling motion (acrobatics check: 21). Fizz hangs by the rope dangling into the chasm.

Uptharr ducks under the icy breath from the Mephit (save roll: 13) avoiding much of the damage, and then turns to face the Ice mephit as he stands to his feet. He sees the little creature shrieking about 10 feet over his head, as it chitters and shrieks loudly... almost as if it is calling to someone.

As the party that had successfully crossed the chasm catches their breath, a sudden commotion stirs behind them. The eerie sounds of chittering and knocking echo through the icy tunnel, drawing their attention. The dim light flickers, revealing the glint of several more Ice Mephits emerging from the shadows. These new arrivals, with their crystalline forms catching the light, move with a sinister grace, their presence multiplying the sense of danger. The party turns, realizing that the challenge they face is far from over, as the mephits close in, ready to strike from both sides of the chasm.

Roll for initiative

DORF:

Standard Action: You are attacking Ice Mephit with your Sling

Calmly

Pulls his sling off his belt and focuses on keeping his emotions in check until he can get these things in range of his blades or fists.

Luck was on your side!

Dorf, quick to act, pulls out his sling. He loads it with a bullet, eyeing one of the imp-like Ice Mephits. With a swift, fluid motion, he lets the bullet fly. It whizzes through the air, striking the Mephit with precision, The bullet, cracking the crystalline elemental, dealing 12 damage! (Weak to Bludgeoning)

Move Action: Dorf squeezes past Azalie and Mutt and moves closer to the Mephits.

AZALIE:

Anxiously

Azalie lights an oil lamp and throws it towards the injured Ice mephit hoping to injure and slow them all down. Screaming towards Uptharr Azalie tells him

Bonus Action: Lights the wick on the oil flask

"you have to get across quickly. They are calling their master!" with more of a calm tone but still with fear, she turns to Mutt. "Mutt, Dorf and I can take these guys, can you help Fizz and Uptharr out?"

Standard Action: You are throwing your lit oil flask

Azalie, with a swift and decisive action, lights the wick of her oil flask, transforming it into a makeshift fire bomb. She hurls the flaming flask with precision towards the group of Ice Mephits. The flask smashes directly on the wounded Mephit, the impact causing the oil to burst forth and ignite in a fiery blaze. The sudden explosion of flames engulfs the injured creature and rapidly spreads to the three other Mephits huddled nearby. The Mephit that was hit takes 10 points of fire damage! (Weak to Fire) The Ice Mephit lets out a squeak as it melts and breaks into pieces.

Ice Mephit Save Throws:

Ice Mephit #1

Failure - As the flaming oil from Azalie`s thrown flask erupts, one of the Ice Mephits finds itself directly in the path of the fiery splash. The creature is instantly engulfed in the burning oil, its icy form hissing and steaming under the intense heat. It takes 10 points of damage! (Weak to Fire)

Ice Mephit #2

Success - One of the Ice Mephits reacts with surprising agility. As the flames explode and spread, this mephit swiftly dodges, narrowly evading the splashing, burning oil.

Ice Mephit #3

Failure - The last mephit, caught in the chaos of Azalie`s fiery attack, is less fortunate. As it attempts to evade the blast, its movements are not swift enough. The flaming oil splashes over it, igniting upon contact with its icy form. It takes 10 damage. (Weak to Fire)

Ice Mephit #2

Move Action: The Mephit dives down and exhales his frosty breath at Dorf, Mutt and Azalie. Moved 15 feet

Standard Action: You are breathing Frost Breath at Dorf Thimblerigger, Mutt Bromwell and Azalie

Save Throws Vs Frost Breath:

Azalie:

Failure - Azalie is surprised by the sudden blast of cold and takes full damage from the frost breath.

As the Ice Mephit turns its attention towards Azalie, Dorf, and Mutt, it unleashes a chilling blast of frosty breath. Azalie, caught in the icy onslaught, tries to dodge but is taken off guard and is hit by the freezing spray. The frost engulfs her, biting into her legs with a cold so intense it burns, leaving her shivering and weakened as she takes 3 damage!

Dorf:

Failure - Dorf is surprised by the sudden blast of cold and takes full damage from the frost breath.

As the Ice Mephit unleashes a frigid blast of frost breath, Dorf braces for impact. Despite his attempts to shield himself, he takes full force from the Ice Blast. 3 points of damage!

Mutt:

Success - Mutt manages to duck and avoid some of the icy breath.

As the Ice Mephit releases a torrent of frost breath, Mutt reacts swiftly. With agile reflexes, he manages to partially evade the icy blast, the frost grazing him but not fully engulfing him. He takes 2 points of cold damage.

Move Acion: Moved 15 feet - The Ice Mephit then retreats back to where it was near the ceiling.

Uptharr:

Standard Action: You are throwing your Flail at the Ice Mephit

Angrily

Uptharr spots the beast above and spins his flail with all his strength and launches it at the foul creature

“You will learn”

Uptharr, his eyes locked on the Ice Mephit above, grips his flail tightly and begins to spin it with immense force. With a determined shout of "You will learn," he launches the flail upwards in a powerful arc. The heavy weapon soars through the air and strikes the Mephit squarely, the impact resounding through the cave as it deals a solid blow of 16 damage! (Weak to Bludgeoning)

Ice Mephit #4

Move Action: Moved 30 feet - After being struck by the heavy flail, the injured Mephit flees back down the cooridoor, shrieking loudly as it retreats.

Fizzbum:

Standard Action: Climbing 10 feet - As Fizzbum dangles on the rope in the chasm, he begins to climb as quickly as he can up the rope. He advances 10 feet up the rope as he climbs

Mutt:

Standard Action: You lend your aid to Fizzbum Lilypad

As Fizzbum clings to the rope, dangling precariously in the chasm, Mutt, seeing Fizzbum`s struggle, quickly moves to lend his aid. Grasping the rope with firm hands, Mutt pulls with all his might, steadily hoisting Fizzbum out of the chasm. With a final heave, Mutt successfully brings Fizzbum onto the safety of the ledge, pulling him up the last 10 feet and out of the dangerous abyss.

Ice Mephit #1

Save Vs. Burning Oil: Failure: The Ice Mephit frantically tries to escape the searing flames. However, its efforts are in vain as it fails to shake off the burning oil clinging to its icy form. The creature continues to shriek and sizzle taking another 8 points of fire damage. (weak to fire)

Move Action: Moved 15 feet - The Ice Mephit flies over above Dorfs head, and prepares to release its frosty breath.

Save Throws vs Frost Breath:

Azalie:

Failure - The intense cold sears her skin and numbs her muscles, leaving her shivering and pained as she fails to evade the frosty assault.

As the Ice Mephit turns towards Dorf, Mutt, Azalie and Fizzbum, it releases a sharp, chilling breath of ice directly at them. Caught off-guard, Azalie tries to dodge, but the frigid blast envelops her before she can react fully. The intense cold sears her skin and numbs her muscles, dealing 3 points of cold damage!

Mutt:

Success - As the icy blast from the Mephit surges towards Mutt, he instinctively reacts, relying on his agility and quick reflexes. With a swift sidestep, he narrowly avoids the brunt of the freezing breath

Mutt, seeing the Mephit exhale it`s breath, ducks behind Dorf, and successfully saves taking only half damage from the icy blast. 2 damage

Dorf:

Failure - Despite his toughness, Dorf is visibly shaken by the full force of the frost damage

When the Ice Mephit unleashes its chilling breath, Dorf braces for impact, but the icy blast is swifter than anticipated. It engulfs him completely, the intense cold cutting through his defenses and biting into his flesh. He takes 3 damage

Fizzbum:

Success - He evades the worst of the icy onslaught, the frigid air merely grazing him.

As the frost breath of the Ice Mephit barrels towards him, Fizzbum reacts with remarkable speed, drawing upon his nimble gnome instincts. With a swift and acrobatic dive, he evades the worst of the icy onslaught, taking just half damage. 2 damage

Move Action: Moved 15 feet - After unleashing its breath weapon, the Mephit darts back to its previous position, hovering 14 feet above the ground, near the cave ceiling.

Ice Mephit #3

Save vs Burning Oil: Success - The second ice mephit successfully extinguishes the flames that had earlier engulfed it.

Move Action: Moved 15 feet - the next Ice Mephit darts down and prepares to exhale it`s breath weapon

Standard Action: You are breathing Frost Breath at Dorf, Azalie and Mutt

Save Throw vs Frost Breath:

Azalie:

Failure - Azalie takes the second blast, and it overwhelms her. She collapses to the ground unconscious.

As a second Mephit unleashes its icy breath, Azalie is caught directly in the frigid blast. She succumbs to the intense frost, unable to withstand the chilling blast. She collapses to the ground, unconscious, her skin turning a frosty blue as a layer of ice forms over her.. 5 damage

Dorf:

Failure - Dorf feels the icy breath freezing his skin, as he takes the full force of the blast again.

Once again targeted by an Ice Mephit`s frosty onslaught, Dorf attempts to shield himself from the icy breath. However, his reaction is too slow, and the second blast envelops him in a cloud of biting cold. 5 damage. Dorf begins to stagger as the cold begins to crack his skin.

Mutt:

Success - Though he still feels the sharp sting of the cold, his successful maneuver ensures that he only takes half the damage

Faced with a second icy blast from the Mephit, Mutt quickly reacts with agility. He manages to partially evade the chilling torrent, taking half the damage as he ducks down low to the ground. 3 damage

Move Action:

Moved 15 feet - After breathing frost, the mephit retreats back to where it started.

22 minutes has passed

Current Time: 2:31 PM

Date: Fourthday , 4 , Alturiak , 1742

Temperature: 39°

Chasm Battle Round 2

As one of the mephits dies, it explodes into shards of icy shrapnel. No one was close enough to be hit by the shrapnel.

DORF:

Standard Action: You are attacking Ice Mephit with your Sling

In a burst of barbarian fury, Dorf lets out a thunderous scream, channeling his rage into a precise and powerful shot with his sling. With unerring accuracy, the bullet flies through the air, striking one of the Ice Mephits squarely. The impact is catastrophic; the mephit shatters into countless icy fragments, instantly destroyed by the sheer force of Dorf`s attack. 12 damage (Weak to Bludgeoning)

Icy Death Blast: As one of the mephits dies, it explodes into shards of icy shrapnel. Luckily, no one was close enough to the creature during this chaotic explosion.

Using helmet +1 Intimidation - Dorf draws his hatchets and runs screaming athe remaining mephits trying to scare them away from his friends!

As Dorf screams in anger, one of the Mephits flees the scene...whether by his intimidating roar, or sheer coincidence, Dorf is not sure.

Ice Mephit:

Standard Action: Dashed 60 feet - One of the mephits streaks away as fast as it can - fleeing the scene

Uptharr:

Standard Action: You are using Dorf's Backpack

Uptharr, thinking quickly, grabs Dorf`s backpack and with a powerful swing of his arms, he launches the backpack across the chasm. The bag arcs gracefully through the air, landing safely and securely next to Mutt on the other side.

Playfully

"Not doing so hot over there.. here, something for you."

Bonus Action; You are throwing your Bronze Mace at the fleeing Ice mephit

Mockingly

"Also, something for you!"

Uptharr, seizing the momentum, turns his attention to the fleeing Mephit. He grips his mace tightly and hurls it with all his strength. The mace whirls through the air, striking the Mephit with such force that it instantly shatters into a thousand glittering ice shards, scattering across the cave floor. 8 damage (Weak to Bludgeoning)

Icy Death Blast: The Ice Mephit explodes, sending shrapnel everywhere. But no one is close enough to take damage.

FIZZBUM:

Standard Action: You are casting Guidance at Mutt Bromwell

Fizzbum, with a twinkle in his eye, reaches out towards Mutt and utters a few mystical words, casting Guidance. As he speaks, a soft, glowing light emanates from his fingertips, swirling around Mutt and infusing him with a subtle, magical energy. Mutt feels a surge of confidence and clarity.

Fearfully

"Think you can get us out on a wing and a prayer Mutt?"

Bonus Action: You are casting Healing Word at Dorf Thimblerigger

Fizzbum turns to Dorf, who`s still reeling from the icy assault. He casts Healing Word, sending a wave of rejuvenating energy towards Dorf. The warm, healing magic envelops Dorf, mending his wounds and easing his pain, visibly restoring his strength and vitality. (Restores 8 Hit Points)

Anxiously

"Hang in there little buddy!"

MUTT:

Standard Action: You are administering a lesser healing potion to Azalie.

Anxiously

"C`mon elf lady...get up, get up, get up!"

Mutt quickly kneels beside the unconscious Azalie, carefully administering a healing potion. As he tilts the bottle, the restorative liquid flows gently into her mouth. Moments later, Azalie`s eyes flutter open, a sign of life returning as the potion`s magic begins to mend her frostbitten injuries. She recovers 5 hit points, and color quickly returns to her skin.

Bonus Action: You are using Bardic Inspiration at Uptharr

Excited

"Paladin! You may have to jump but I can tell there`s strength in those old legs. You can make it!"

Mutt takes a deep breath and begins to play a lively, uplifting melody on his pan flute, the notes echoing melodically through the icy cave. The music swirls around Uptharr, infusing him with a sense of courage and determination.

Ice Mephit:

Standard Action: Dashed 60 feet - The Ice Mephit flees down the corridor and out of sight.

Combat has ended, as all the enemies have fled.

You can hear a roar from the skull room, the Yeti may be on it's way.

Dorf's shield is still on the ground next to Uptharr.

Uptharr retrieves his flail and mace.

What do you do next?

0 minutes has passed

Current Time: 2:31 PM

Date: Fourthday , 4 , Alturiak , 1742

Temperature: 39°

Deeper into the Cave

Mutt exhales as color returns to Azalie’s face and she gets back to her feet. Seeing the remaining Mephit retreat down the hall, Mutt curses the damned icy beings. Hearing the yetis roar coming from down the corridor, Mutt begins hastily rummaging through his pack and looks up at Azalie.

Fizzbum sighs in relief as the Mephit's retreat and claps his hands together in glee as Mutt produces the healing potion and gently pours it down Azalie's throat.

*cough*

“Thank you Mutt. I felt locked in a dream, surrounded by ice and little flying icy imps.”

As she tries to shake off the remnants of her dreamlike state, reality hits her with full force.

“Glad you’re back with us elf lady. We’re going to need to move and quickly. Fizz and I will help make sure the Paladin gets across. "

Mutt then turns toward Dorf,

"You teddy bear butcher here start heading down the tunnel keep an eye out for those icy bastards.”

Mutt takes several pieces of raw meat from his pack and a handful of ball bearings. Mutt presses the ball bearings into some of the meat and ties it all together with a piece of string so the ball bearings can’t be seen. Satisfied the ball bearing surprise is hidden from view, he tosses the bundle back over the chasm.

Dorf collects his things and hands Mutt back his healing potion.

“I think you need this more than I do now, thank you!” Dorf looks anxiously at the elf slowly getting up. “Are you ok? I didn’t think we were going to survive that fight. I really think we should get moving, I’m not afraid to fight. But I could use a rest, don’t know how you all feel.”

Azalie, steadying herself and rising to her feet, meets Dorf's anxious gaze with a determined look.

“I’m a little wobbly but good.” Azalie is bruised and this will be a lesson. She’s surprised at how genuine and concerned Dorf is being.

Under all that…Dorf has a mushy heart.

"Well done Mr. Mutt! I was so sad that I didn't have enough spells to heal everyone! and I've never had to use more than 1 per day back home, and I honestly didn't think I'd need more than that when I came to this Frosty place." Looking down at the now empty potion bottle, "I think I need to learn how to make 1 of those! Do they have mushrooms in them? Where did you get it!?, do you have to keep them cold? why are they pink?"

Mutt looks down at Fizz who’s been asking questions about the healing potion the entire time Mitt has been working on his bundle.

“Fizz, I don’t … I don’t know how the potion is … I bought it from…Fizz! We’ll talk about the potion later! I need you to pay attention and do as I do, OK?”

Fizzbum's eyes sparkle as he continues to ply Mutt for information about the potion, until Mutt gently puts his hand on his little shoulder and turns him toward the sound of the approaching Yeti.

"Oh!" Fizz exclaims. "I forgot about him! Maybe we should go?"

Fizz looks over at Azalie and offers her his staff if she needs it to lean on.

The look of concern coming for Fizz’s face makes her feel guilty for falling so easily. She’s even more determined to not fail them,

“Fizz, your heart is larger than your entire body.” Azalie gives Fizz a warm smile, with the perfect head tilt. “I’m so glad I met you.”

The mood quickly changes when Azalie hears the roar of the approaching yeti. She attempts to spring to her feet, just to stumble and fall flat on her rump.

“We need to get out of here. If that yeti doesn’t catch eye of us we may have a chance, at something, maybe just a rest.”

Mutt gestures towards the edge of the chasm and casts Minor Illusion to create an image of sharp, jagged, rocky spikes jutting from the landing out into the air. (@DM the idea is for the spikes to look like they would impale anyone that tries to jump across.)

“OK, Fizz you do that side of the cavern so the whole tunnel looks like the whole passageway is covered in spikes.”

Mutt turns back to Uptharr with a sense of urgency.

“Come on Paladin! It’s time to go! Don’t worry about the spikes, they’re not real. Jump!”

Meanwhile, on the other side of the chasm, Uptharr heaves Dorf's shield across the gaping maw. The shield whizzes by Mutt and hits the icy floor with a CLANG.

Uptharr takes a deep breath as he secures the rope around his waist, his eyes fixed on the daunting chasm ahead. Gathering his strength, he backs up for a running start.. With a determined charge, he leaps towards the gaping abyss, muscles straining as he sails through the air. For a heart-stopping moment, it seems he might not make it, weighted down by his heavy plate armor, but with an Athletics check of 18, he just barely grasps the edge on the other side (Acrobatics check 9), pulling himself up with a grunt of effort. He stands to his feet, confidently.

"The light provides", says Uptharr as he brushes himself off after the death defying leap.

The party, spurred by the imminent threat of the Yeti, flees down the corridor with haste. The icy tunnel, illuminated by the faint glow of Uptharr's lantern, bends sharply to the right, leading them around a corner. They press forward with urgency, their footsteps echoing on the cold, hard and Icy ground. After about 200 feet, the tunnel brings them to a fork in the passage.

You can hear the frustrated roar of the Yeti echo in the background.

What do you do next?

10 minutes has passed

Current Time: 2:41 PM

Date: Fourthday , 4 , Alturiak , 1742

Temperature: 39°

The Ice Pool

Dorf gives the Lesser healing potion to Mutt.

Mutt gratefully accepts the potion back from Dorf with a forced chuckle.

“Looks like I was going to be the one that needed it after all. Does anyone else have a potion left or is this the last one?”

Azalie tries to steady herself on her feet as she heads down the pathway, instructed by Mutt. She has a splitting headache. The pain is worse then that of a thousand barbs, being slowly inserted into your temple. Her eyesight is off and she feels sensitive to cold. Each step sends a shockwave straight to her inner ear, each heartbeat like a crushing blow behind her eyes. The smell of the scat is making her queasy and not even one of Fizz's shrooms' could ease this pain.

But she has to move forward. Azalie attempts to calm her thoughts as the pain starts to change her mood. She was feeling hopeful and now vulnerable. Thinking isn't a good idea right now.

...just run.

After the Paladin jumps across successfully, Fizz casts an illusion to match Mutt's spikes. Curiously his spikes are bright green and have moss hanging off of them, but the points appear to be just as sharp.

"I like em!" Fizz exclaims with a smile. He picks up his staff and pack as the party heads out up the tunnel, skipping his snakeskin boots across the icy path. "I thought about what you said Azalie. I think my heart is normal sized, but I understand what you mean. Very kind of you! Do you know that the Hagfish has four hearts! I've never caught one to prove it but think how much kindness he would have! They must be the most loving fish on the planet! Oh, and the earthworm has multiple hearts too. Do you know that you can..." Fizz continues to bend Azalie's ear as they walk down the corridor about the interesting creatures of his swamp.

Dorf follows Azalea and Fizz down the tunnel, muttering under his breath to himself.

 “Don’t understand why I’m so unlucky lately, maybe it’s the cold? Why did I decide to head north? As soon as we get out of this I’m headed somewhere warm, with none of those little ice breath critters!”

Coming to a pause at the fork in the tunnel, Fizz pauses in his nature recitation to peer down the side tunnel.

"You seem to be able to hear things almost as well as me Az! I'm not so good at tunnels, but maybe you can find us a way out of here!"

Fizzbum wiggles his fingers once again at Azalie's belly. As her belt begins to glow slightly, Fizz gives his fingers a snap and Lumpy crawls out his shirt to perch on Fizz's shoulder.

"Trust your gut! Hahah!! get it!?"

Azalie seems distracted, as she walks with Fizz, who talks her ear off. Her anxiety strangely relieved slightly by the little gnome, who takes her mind off the dire circumstances.

Fizz likes the look of the forward tunnel, as the side tunnel seems to go back the way they came, but he will trust in Azalie's decision.

Fizz sniffs the air as he ponders which direction seems fresher. (Perception roll: 6). He looks back and fourth a few times, and then shrugs.

“It’s harder to smell things in the cold”. He declares.

As they come to the junction, Mutt looks between the two paths before them with uncertainty before looking at Azalie.

“Well, elf lady? Any suggestion on which way to go?”

He begins rummaging through his pack again and pulls out the bag of ball bearings. He picks out 5 ball bearings and puts them in a small pocket before heading a short ways back down the hall they just came from. He finds a narrow space in the hallway and upends the bag of ball bearings to cover the floor. Returning to the group he looks to Azalie and Fizz.

"All right, which way are we headed?"

Azalie pauses at the fork in the tunnel, her eyes carefully scanning the paths before them. She crouches down, examining the icy floor for any signs or clues, her brows furrowed in concentration. After a moment, she straightens up, A weary look on her face.

“Let’s look to the right. I’m not much help without at least a little rest.” She hopes Mutt trusts her as she’s not even sure if she trusts herself.

“If we come across those icy devils again…well…hopefully they’re as bad off as we are.” As the words pass her lips, Azalie wonders if the others should run and leave her behind as a distraction.

She shakes off the idea of being dinner to the yeti. whispering “I’m sure I don’t taste very good. I have bathed in weeks.”

Azalie looks up locking eyes with Mutt. She immediately blushes and wishes she didn’t have be that elf, always giving away her inner thoughts because her mouth moves faster than her feet.

“Um, uh. I mean I’ve, well there was this time, and we’ve been stuck…”

she quickly spins away from the boy half elf and gives herself a quick sniff. Ugh, the yeti scat is still permanenting from her shoe.

Mutt glances at the healing potion in his hand and winces as the frostbitten parts of his body flare up in pain. Pocketing the potion in a quickly reachable pocket, he nods to Azalie.

"I'll save this for an emergency. I should be OK to travel if we just get some time to rest." Mutt readies his crossbow, motions down the right hand corridor and smiles up at the elf. "After you, elf lady."

Dorf looks at his companions, determined to shield them from harm, whether with his shield or body whichever is needed. He shifts his shield to a more comfortable grip and readies his axe and leads the way, moving as quietly as he is able down the tunnel to the right as Az suggested.

Following Azalie's suggestion, the party ventures down the right passageway, treading cautiously along the icy tunnel. After about 100 feet, their path comes to an icy stairs, chiseled into the cave floor, the stairs descend about 20 feet or so and then open into a large, approx. 80-foot diameter chamber. Dominating the center of this ice cave chamber is a serene, icy pool, reflecting the dim light and adding a sense of tranquil isolation to their frosty surroundings.

The temperature in this chamber is noticably cooler, but the ground is flat, with several icy stalagmites and stalagtites on the floor and ceiling.

The party stops at the bottom of the stairs and briefly observes the room.

Things you see in the cave:

Ancient Carvings: On one side of the chamber, the ice walls are adorned with intricate carvings, seemingly etched long ago.

Frozen Statues: Scattered around the edge of the icy pool are several lifelike statues, that look like they may be made enturely of ice.

Ice Pool: In the center of the room is a perfectly still pool of icy water,

What do you do next?

20 minutes has passed

Current Time: 3:01 PM

Date: Fourthday , 4 , Alturiak , 1742

Temperature: 33°

Securing the Area

“What have…” Azalie cautiously walks into the room. It’s strangely calm and ominous all at the same time. “This place is…beautiful.”

Azalie snaps her head towards her teddy bear toting friend,

“Dorf! Please do NOT touch anything.” She meant that with all the care and threatening intended.

Azalie takes her time to thoroughly investigate the chamber, her eyes scanning every corner and detail. With her perception check roll of 13, she notes the condition of the floor. The thick layer of ice coating the ground is undisturbed, showing no fresh tracks or recent signs of passage. The only tracks present are faint and deeply embedded in the ice, suggesting they are many years old. This observation indicates that the chamber has been undisturbed for a significant period.

"The chamber seems like it's been undisturbed for quite some time." she declares. "The floor's thick with ice and the only tracks here are ancient, no recent activity. "

Azalie, drawn to the symbols and statues, leans in for a closer examination, her eyes tracing the intricate designs. She murmurs to herself,

"These seem so familiar to me,"

as she tries to connect the carvings to her knowledge of religious symbols. Despite her efforts, rolling a 3 on her Religion check, she finds herself unable to decipher the meanings. The language and symbols elude her understanding, remaining shrouded in mystery. The carvings, etched in an unknown language, stand as silent witnesses to a forgotten past, leaving Azalie with more questions than answers.

As azalie is investigating the room, Fizzbum enters the room and peers into the pool.

"It's so clear! Too bad it's cold, Lumpy would love a swim."

Fizzbum's curiosity is piqued by the clarity of the icy pool, and he squats down to get a better look, musing about Lumpy's potential enjoyment of the water. With his darkvision, he can see down into the pool very clearly - and even gets a sense of about how deep it is, just at the range of his darkvision - approx 50-60 feet.

With his keen investigative roll of 23, he notices a couple of interesting things about the pool.

1. Submerged Entrance: As Fizzbum examines the pool, he notices an irregularity in the pool's icy wall, partially hidden by the refraction of the water. His keen observation leads him to suspect the presence of a submerged entrance or tunnel along one side of the pool, about 15 feet down. This hidden pathway could potentially lead to unexplored parts of the cave or even connect to an underground water system.

2. Rare Aquatic Life: While observing the pool, Fizzbum spots movement beneath the surface. Upon closer inspection, he discovers a small ecosystem of rare, bioluminescent aquatic creatures. These creatures emit a faint, ethereal light, adding a magical quality to the pool. Their presence suggests that the water is part of a larger, possibly interconnected, subterranean aquatic system, and it could be a source of rare ingredients for Fizzbum's alchemical experiments.

"I'd say the pool is a good 50 to 60 feet deep." as he stands up and pokes the water with his staff. "It's possible this pool could even be a flooded tunnel. Too bad it's so cold, I bet some of the creatures swimming in this pool would make excellent components to go with some of my mushroom brews."

Dorf, remaining cautious, positions himself near the wall, away from the pool. He scans the walls and ceilings, being on the lookout for any signs of Ice Mephits. The sight of the frozen figures near the pool makes him nervous, and he gives a reassuring pat on the head of his bear, Mr. Wiggles, as he murmurs,

"Don’t worry Mr Wiggles, we aren’t going near that pool."

With a Perception roll of 16, reveals no immediate threats; the area seems devoid of Ice Mephits. There is no sign of movement on the ceilings or near the icy walls.

Mutt positions himself with his back to the wall, his crossbow at the ready, ensuring he has a clear view of the entire room. His cautious stance allows him to keep an eye out for any movement, particularly from the dreaded Ice Mephits.

He carefully sets up a small but effective alarm system using a bell and a string across the corridor leading to the chamber, a simple yet clever precaution to alert them of any approaching danger. As he works, he keeps glancing over at the eerie statues, their frozen forms adding to the chamber's chilling ambiance. It takes him about 30 minutes to set his alarm trap.

Pulling his cloak tighter to ward off the cold, Mutt hums softly, his mind already weaving their current ordeal into the verses of a new song. He muses aloud, half to himself, 

"What rhymes with 'fucking mephits'...?"  he says out loud as he mumbles, then suddenly getting some inspiration... "ducking in pits... yeah that might work."  he continues talking as he pulls out the magic scroll he found.

During the downtime, Mutt also takes the opportunity to closely examine the magic scroll he found earlier. He carefully unrolls it, studying the arcane symbols and script, piecing together its purpose and power.

The Bitter Cold

In the chamber, a profound silence settles around the party, a stark contrast to the earlier roars of the Yeti. This quietness feels unnatural, as if the very air has become still. The only sounds you can hear are your own soft breaths and the occasional creak of your armor and clothing in the frigid air. It's an eerie stillness that fills the whole room. You also notice that the ice sculptures, are in fact made of solid blocks of ice and are transparent. Each one, highly detailed, but with blemishes from the years standing in place.

As time passes, the cold begins to permeate into your bones. It seeps through layers of clothing, a creeping chill that begins to numb your fingers and toes.

*You must either be wearing two sets of common clothes, or one set of common clothes and draped with a blanket or you get 1 point of Hypothermia.*

Azalie puts on another layer of clothes over her first layer, and then re-dons her armor for extra warmth (this takes 10 minutes), as Mutt, Dorf, Uptharr and Fizzbum wrap their blankets around their shoulders.

Decisions that need to be made:

• Does the party rest here, if so, how long?

• Let me know if you are going to do any other investigations in the room.

What do you do next?

40 minutes has passed

Current Time: 3:41 PM

Date: Fourthday , 4 , Alturiak , 1742

Temperature: 33°

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