14

Cave of the Big Guys

2nd of Nightal, Year 1489 (New Moon -19)

The Verbeeg Lair

-Merken used his familiar, a bat, to scout the area. The bat discovers several chambers, including one with bone-filled niches, a large humanoid figure working with wood and ashes, a frozen pool with a Yeti, casks of mead, an ogre, and a room with a bonfire and animal pen.
-The Crew decided to sneak in and attack the ogre first. They do so successfully, and the verbeeg and an abominable yeti join the battle. Johnny Blades lands a critical hit on the Verbeeg with his shortbow. Meanwhile, Orion has been paralyzed by the yeti's gaze attack, and Merken's bat familiar was killed by the yeti's cold aura. The party is split between fighting the verbeeg and dealing with the new yeti threat.
-The group continues their encounter with the Yeti, which has captured Orion. They attempt various tactics to rescue Orion, including Merken casting a flaming sphere, Bragnar attacking with his axe, and Johnny shooting at the Yeti's arm. Despite their efforts, the Yeti maintains its grip on the paralyzed Orion. The party struggles to coordinate their actions effectively while navigating the icy terrain.
-The group faces a dire situation as the Yeti breaks Orion's spine and throws him into a frigid pool. Bragnar attacks the Yeti unsuccessfully, while Sparky bites its foot. Johnny considers jumping in to save Orion but realizes his low constitution makes it risky. Instead, Johnny attacks the Yeti with a dagger, dealing significant damage. The group discusses healing options for Orion, who continues to sink and may take ongoing damage.

• Merken transforms into a polar bear, dives into water to rescue Orion, and casts a healing spell on him. The Yeti flees.
• Orion's near-death experience reveals facts about his past. Someone calling himself his older brother reveals that Orion is Aasimar and grants him the spell Zone of Truth. He awakens with his scars mysteriously gone and new magical abilities.
• The group continues exploring the cave after defeating the Yeti. They find an ancient tomb containing a pearl and wand. They debate taking the items but are unsure of potential curses. As they prepare to rest, Johnny hears creatures approaching, likely the Yeti's companions. The group must now decide how to handle this new threat while still trying to retrieve the mead they came for.