An End... and a Beginning

The forest seems kinder for the moment, like a threat has been lifted from the deep shadows under the trees. You look around at your companions, a caravan of heavily laden horses bearing the burden of proof that the kobold threat against Winterhaven has been ended (and of course the piles of weapons and armour you looted from the kobolds might be worth something to Thair Coalstriker).

And yet, the goblin Irontooth called to Orcus and Kalarel with his dying breath. Who Kalarel is you do not know, but Orcus... there is a name to put a chill into the warmest day. He is a demon prince, a lord of the undead. You consider again the ominous note you found on Irontooth:

“My spy in Winterhaven suggests we keep an eye out for visitors to the area. It probably does not matter; in just a few more days, I’ll completely open the rift. Then Winterhaven’s people will serve as food for all those Lord Orcus sends to do my bidding.”

Despite the recent vanquishing of the kobolds, the note hints at an sinister presence close by. As you reach the outskirts of Winterhaven, the fields seem deserted. The few villagers that you see are furtive and nervous. You should tell Lord Padraig of the success of your mission, and claim your reward, but you feel as though you've only just begun your work in this small village. Perhaps it is time to investigate the rumours of a dragon burial mound nearby, and seek your absent mentor there. If nothing else, it may give you the confidence to face the greater threat you now sense is looming in your future...