Our camp was nestled amongst the snow-laden pines, a temporary respite in our march towards Central Keep. As we huddled around the fire, sharing stories and tending to our weapons, a figure emerged from the swirling snowflakes. A halfling bard, no less, with a lute slung across his back and a mischievous twinkle in his eye. PsyBorn Yin-Salvalore, he introduced himself, a chronicler of tales and seeker of adventure. He claimed to be on the trail of the legendary Gem Dragonborn, Fiodar “Fedar” Osmanivič Mikhailcki. Fiodar, of course, was puffed up with pride, basking in the attention. The prospect of having his heroic deeds immortalized in song and verse was too much for him to resist.

With our newfound companion in tow, we pressed on towards Central Keep. The battle was fierce, orcs and goblins swarming from every corner. But we fought with the fury of the storm, our blades cutting through the enemy ranks like a blizzard through a dry forest. Some of the orcs managed to escape on their dire wolf mounts, no doubt carrying news of our attack to the other keeps and Riftcrag.

We claimed victory, but knew we couldn’t hold the keep alone. We sent word to the elves of Tanglewood, seeking their aid. They responded swiftly, offering to defend the keep until reinforcements from our Wolf Nomad brethren could arrive. This keep, a strategic linchpin in the region, would serve as a vital bastion against the forces of Iuz. If we could seize control of all the keeps, we could cripple his supply lines and disrupt his operations in the nearby mines.

The war against Iuz was far from over, but this victory was a crucial step forward. With the elves at our side and the wind at our backs, we were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.