The Necromancer's Pact VIII: The Rising Tide

[Dr._Bob]

Turning to the west, you trudge onward wearily through the night.

The temperature dips down even lower once the sun has set. Even the magical rations and warmth only serve to take the edge off of the misery. Tempers flare as the cold, hunger, and lack of sleep take their toll on your bodies.

The moon is hidden behind a layer of clouds, making it difficult to see where the snowy fields end and the horizon begins.

Weapons are kept at hand in case of danger, but the night passes uneventfully.

With your fingers, toes, and minds numbed by the piercing chill, it takes a while to notice the lightening of the sky behind you. Dawn almost catches you by surprise, the rays of sunlight casting long shadows before you. The sky has cleared. It looks like it is going to be a sunny day.

Occasionally, the rangers point out small stone markers, poking through the snow, which confirm that you are on the road to Immilmar.

Around mid-day, Adalmar raises a hand, stopping you in your tracks. Silently he points ahead. A large, pure-white wolf stands several hundred yards away in the center of the road. It observes you carefully, its ears pricked forward attentively. The party's lone horse snorts and stomps uneasily.