August 1, 2026
11th Dulthila
The Torchbearers decided to scale the back face of the mountain, a more difficult climb but not monitored by the Eyrie. Once on the mountain, they planned to lower a wooden platform with a high wall to protect them from archers, dubbed the “siege toboggan,” and so approach the Eyrie from above. They spent the day building this siege toboggan.
12th Dulthila
The Torchbearers began the ascent of the back of the mountain. They had made little progress when they saw the white dragon rising from a valley far below them. He landed on the cliff face above them and, smelling Thezzarak’s scent on them, demanded they lead him to the hoard.
The Torchbearers initially tried to intimidate the dragon, but, when he started flicking their pitons from the rock face, submitted to him. They descended the mountain and began leading him back toward the lair.
At night, Alwin sent a message by bird, warning Vira.
15th Dulthila
The Torchbearers arrived at the cave mouth. The dragon remained in the cover of the trees and ordered them to bring out some of the treasure as a show of good faith.
Vira and her forces passed around magic weapons and temporary enchantments, including on Hugh’s sling.
From ambush, everyone with magic volleyed against the dragon. Ormar used the last of the holy arrows they once had found, which normally had the power of sleep but proved ineffective against the dragon.
The dragon retreated into the forest, crying out against the Torchbearers’ treason and, presumably because of their allegiance with the giant, blasphemy.
The Torchbearers tried to track him, but lost him in a cold fog.
Every 20 or 30 minutes throughout the night, a great boulder, dropped from the sky, boomed against the mountainside.
