DnD Adventures in Caledendria
Here is a group portrait:
From left to right: Ghendel, Langly, Garret, Lucian and Maalvi
July 26th:
Ron: Elven Cleric named Lucian Galanadel
NPC: Elven Fighter named Maalvi Galanadel
Jayme: Halfling Ranger named Langly Reedhill
Well, I’ve turned 31 years old today and I’ve decided to take a world walk. Most of my friends who are of the same age have decided to stay. Beros is going to apprentice to grumpy old man Mosshearth and become a tailor and Shyla is going to become a cook (she sure can cook). But I have to see some new places, meet new people and fight some of the monsters I’ve only heard tales of. Before I left, my Uncle Higginbottom gave me a necklace and told me the necklace was magical and had protected him in the past. He said that the necklace has a name: Philo. That night, I dream of a cavern full of gold and gems, an old man with a staff who doesn't know who he is and two Elves around a campfire.
Strangely enough, I meet those same two Elves on my way to the great city of Mycea. Lucian and Maalvi had met with the High Priestess of the Elves (who also happens to be their great grandmother) who had received a message from the High Priestess in Mycea. They were tasked with traveling to Mycea to find out what the letter means (Lucian has a copy of the letter, but it's much too important to entrust to the likes of a simple halfling like myself).
Maalvi, Lucian and I are attacked by Rodents of Unusual Size while camping. Maalvi suffers grave wounds and takes fever from them the next day. Lucian is able to use his healer’s skill to break the fever and Maalvi is OK the next day.
Upon arriving in the city of Mycea, I was tricked into buying a blank map of the city. Thus begins my introduction to the "real" world. I was so overwhelmed by the huge bazaar in the center of town, I spent over two gold just buying food and trinkets. I could have spent days there, just looking at all the amazing gizmos, rings, maps, etc.
Once we find the temple of the Goddess, we were quickly settled into rooms and then brought before the high priestess. She informs us of the caravans that are being attacked and the bodies that are being turned into undead. She also gives us a map with "Gorgoldands Gauntlet" written on it.
She tasks the two Elves with running home to their mommy while sending the poor, defenseless halfling off through orc infested woods to find a hermit who fits the description of the long ago "Mage of Mycea", Yolandale. Yolandale helped to fight off an undead invasion attempt of Mycea over two hundred years ago, but disappeared when he fought the Lich who was controlling the undead.
I found three potions in my room and also picked up a morningstar after talking with the priests about how best to kill these living dead.
Aug 9th
Ron: Lucian is taking a message to Elven High Priestess
NPC: Maalvi is taking a message to Elven High Priestess
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter (Surveyor) named Garret
Ian: Human Sorcerer named Ghendel
Ian: Ghendel's Raven familiar named Josephine
Jayme: Halfling Ranger named Langly
NPC: Human Priest named Phelps
(Phelps means "He who saved Garret's ass many times over" in dwarven)
Langly and Phelps set out to find this hermit who resembles the lost wizard Yolandale.
Ghendel has a vision of a halfling and a human beset by undead creatures. Garret and Ghendel set out to see if the vision is true.
We find each other and start exchanging stories about Langley's dreams, Phelps instructions from the high priestess, etc, etc. As we are sitting around the fire, Garret notices foul creatures approaching through the forest. A mighty battle ensues and Phelps uses his holy symbol to cause the undead to flee in terror. Langly scouts after them to see where they have gone and finds that they are returning. The group decides to attack them and follows the trail of one of them. We kill them off one by one, but Langley's pony falls victim to the some skeletal undead that had returned to our campsite while we were battling the others.
Ghendel has a revelation while investigating the bodies of the undead. He sees powerful magic runes inscrolled on the bodies. But these runes are orcish in nature. Somehow he thinks he has battled these types of creatures before.
After resting and healing, the group decides that they must find the source of these undead. While following their trail, we come to a split on the path. Down one way (south east) orc tracks are seen, down the other (south west) wagon tracks lead. We decide to follow the orc tracks.
After traveling for a day, we decide to make camp under an outcropping of rock. On the second watch, Langly hears an argument in an unknown language coming from the trail. He investigates and sees eight orcs with scale mail, great axes (YUCK!) and javelins. They seem to be arguing about something they have seen. He watches until they split up into two groups and then goes back to camp to wake the others.
The group decides to ambush the four orcs who are going southeast (they same way we were traveling) on the trail. Langly sneaks up behind them to get within bow shot and fires off a volley, killing an orc.
The rest of the orcs turn and attack while Garret charges ahead to meet them. After a bloody battle, all four orcs are killed. However, we soon hear more noises coming down the trail. Garret, Phelps and Ghendel start heading back to camp off the trail while Langly hides within site to see who is coming. Soon four more orcs appear. When they see the battle and the dead orcs, they split up, two scouting each side of the trail.
Langly hurries after the other to tell them the news. As soon as we reach camp, we can hear two of the orcs approaching. They must have found our trail! Sorely wounded from battle and out of healing spells, we decide to flee south through the hills. Langly lies in wait for the orcs to ambush them. After a flurry of arrows, they orcs lie dead and Langly joins his companions. We are able to cover our tracks and stop for the night.
The next day, the group heals and rests while Langly and the Ghendel’s raven Josephine scout for the trail. We decide to keep following the trail to figure out what the Orcs are up to. Josephine scouts out ahead on the trail and discovers it leads to a cave at the base of a mountain. There is a single orc guard on duty.
An attack plan is assembled: Ghendel will enchant a rock to look like a shiny gold nugget. Garret will sling the rock near the cave entrance. When the guard comes out to investigate the gold, Langly will ambush him from the top of a nearby hill. Then the group will charge forward, Phelps will bring forth a concealing mist and wait for any other orcs to emerge from the cave.
The plan succeeds! The single orc guard falls for the bait and then falls to Langley's arrow storm. A second orc emerges from the cave a few moments later, but only sees the mist and not the group concealed within.
We quickly take out this second orc and decide to venture into the cave. Garret (with his dwarven darkvision) ventures in first. Before we can do more than get into the entrance, three more orcs appear! Phelps uses the Goddesses power to command one orc to "Freeze!" and Garret charges forward and attacks. Langly tosses his backpack to Ghendel, who takes out the lantern and uses his magic to light it.
A vicious battle ensues between the orc (who is the Leader of the evil band), Garret and Phelps. Garret takes massive damage from the orcs fierce attack, but he is still able to strike blow after blow. Ghendel pounds the leader with his magic missiles, but the two other Orcs attack him from behind. Langly returns to favor, killing one of the brutes with a lucky blow.
Ghendel dodges from the orc onslaught while Langly spits him with a dagger. Phelps heals the mightily wounded Garret while the orc leader continues his deadly rain of blows. Backed by the power of the Goddess, Garret is able to finally slay the orc leader. Langly is able to dispatch the last orc and the battle ends.
We rummage through the cave and find a den with sleeping furs and a stack of corpses piled in the corner. A chest yields to Garrets axe and we recover gold, jewels and silver. A scroll and potion are also found.
We decide that this information must be brought back to the High Priestess (Mave Corandorn) of Mycea as soon as possible. We gather up the treasure and what arms and armor we can carry and head back to Mycea.
Aug 22nd
Ron: Elven Cleric name Lucian Galanadel
NPC: Elven Fighter named Maalvi Galanadel
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter (Surveyor) named Garret
Ian: Human Sorcerer named Ghendel
Ian: Ghendel's Raven familiar named Josephine
Jayme: Halfling Ranger named Langly Reedhill
NPC: Human Priest named Phelps
After defeating the orcs, we return to the city of Mycea and to the Temple of Ahnyweh (Ailiadona to the Elves). There we are met by the High Priestess Mave Corandorn. She is amazed to see Ghendel (whom she thinks is the great mage of Mycea, Yolandale). However, when she questions him and learns that he has no memory of that person, she is disturbed. She is also amazed to meet another dwarf (as she knows of only one dwarf who lives in Mycea).
When we tell her of the undead with the mystic symbols inscribed on them and the Orcs that we killed, she is even more disturbed. Lucian tells us that he has been doing some research and has come across a quote written in ancient dwarven that make reference to Gorgoldands Gauntlet. Garret does not think he can read it, but that maybe the other dwarf (Cromwell Durenheart) might be able to. Garret leaves to take care of some business he has in town and Mave tells us to rest and return for the evening prayer, when she will attempt to discern more of Ghendel/Yolandale’s past.
Garret says he will meet us at the Blue Stag bar later that night. After storing our gear and most of our weapons, we decide to visit the Blue Stage and see if Garret is there yet.
The Blue Stag is owned and operated by a Gnome named Phalen Moor. When we enter, he offers us the latest drink he has concocted, a strange mix contained within a round, brown hairy fruit that is also a nut. He calls this mixture a Blue Stag and what it contains is still a mystery. However, the affects are not. While not only getting you very drunk, it’s also VERY addicting. I ask if a dwarf has been in the bar recently and Phalen replies that the only dwarf he knows of in Mycea is a famous weapon smith named Cromwell. I ask where we could find this Cromwell and Phalen says that only through the weapons guild could we even hope to setup an appointment with him.
Next I ask him where I could find someone to dispose of some equipment we’ve come across while adventuring, no questions asked. He tells me that the bar a few blocks down, the Helm and Axe, ask Lucus the bartender. After a few more drinks, I decide to go talk with Lucus. Ghendel is solidly drunk and Lucian is well on his way, so Maalvi decides to come with me and leave he other two with a strong admonishment that we must be back to the temple by six o’clock for the ceremony.
At the Helm and Axe, Lucus points me to a man named Gallen. After buying Gallen a round of drinks, we get down to business and he tells me to meet him here the next night and he’ll take a look at our equipment.
Maalvi and I return to the Blue Stag to find Ghendel and Lucian roaring drunk. Lucian is standing up (mostly) and telling some crazy tale about a dragon riding cleric. As it’s getting close to 6 O’clock and we must get back to the ceremony, I ask Phalen if he has something to help sober them up. I stress to him the urgency and how it would be bad for the High Priestess to know that his bar was the cause… For a gold piece, he has something that might just work. He climbs down into his bar, opens a safe of some sort and starts pulling stuff out. Finally he withdraws three vials. Of course now Lucian has decided that he can’t drink anymore as he must get back to the Temple, but with Maalvi’s help, we are able for convince him. The potions work and the drunkenness fades.
We return to the temple and the High Priestess, Mave, performs some type of magic on Ghendel. However, the magic does not seem to penetrate past some dark aura surrounding Ghendel. After the ceremony, Mave talks with Ghendel and says that he is indeed the great mage of Mycea, Yolendale. However, in his battle with the Lich Lord Elenthor, Yolendale was both drained of his power and cursed. The curse has the taint of the undead, but also prevents him from aging and dying. Mave says that she can not remove this curse, but that she will look for a way. However, even if she finds a way to remove it, she is not sure of the outcome, as Ghendel may merge with the memories of Yolendale or Yolendale would return to the state he was in 160 years ago and Ghendel would be no more. Ghendel returns to his chambers to ponder this news.
We decide to try and find Garret once more and all return to the Blue Stag. It’s now after 10 o’clock and the bar is packed with people. We are finally able to secure a table and enjoy some rather unusual music from a band of minstrels from the far south. While drinking (a fine wine for the Elves and a tankard of ale for myself) we enjoy some of Phalen’s unusual hours devours.
I over hear some men near the fire mention “hidden hand”. I try to get closer and overhear more of what they are talking about, but they notice me standing there. I ask if they know of any entertainment besides drinking and music and they invite me to a game of dice. I win the first few rounds of silver and we up the stakes to gold. I quickly notice they are cheating and decide they may be with the local rouges guild. I up the ante again to 6 gold each. Before the dice are rolled, I mention that it’s strange that when the bet changed from silver to gold, I was suddenly losing each roll. They looked at me strangely and two of them subtly loosed their weapons in their scabbards. I said that I had a friend who had traveled more that I and knew that in large cities there was usually someone or a group who regulated certain activities. To practice these arts, you had to get permission from this group. He then said that perhaps we should stop the game of dice and talk in more detail. He mentioned that he would like to acquire some of Phalen’s secret ingredients for his famous Blue Stag drink without Phalen knowing. I told him that I could assist with information, but that my skills were not quite up to the task alone.
He challenged me to prove what level my skills were at. He pointed to a rich merchant drinking with his friends. He said I should acquire something from him. I quickly formed a plan: I picked out a pair of pretty wenches sitting across the room. I then bought a Blue Stag drink from Phalan. Taking the drink, I approached the merchant and said that those two lovely ladies across the room had asked me to bring him this drink. He gazed over and smiled when he saw them. As he reached for the drink I spilled some over the rim onto his hands. As I apologized and wiped away the liquid I also removed one of his rings.
Returning to the rogue, I asked if that was what he had required. He looked at me askance, saying that spilling a drink on the man was not quite what he asked for. I then produced the ring and said perhaps this was more like it? He smiled and said he had someone that I should talk to. He quickly scribbled a note, sealed it with wax and impressed the ring.
While I had been having my fun, Ghendel had noticed two men whom he had seen in the bar earlier. They had been looking at some paper before and they were doing the same again. Ghendel sent Josephine up to the rafters to spy out what they were looking at. It turned out to be some sort of map. A map of what looked like a house with arrows drawn going in a window. After I returned to the table Ghendel mentioned this and we talked about how suspicious that seemed and we decided to follow them when they left.
They got up a few moments later, first one and then, after a short pause the other. We surreptitiously followed them outside and Ghendel send Josephine to keep an eye on them. We followed them into a district of nicer houses with less foot traffic. As we came closer, we noticed that they were scoping out a house across the street and we quickly hid. After a few moments, they seemed to notice something and both left quickly. After a quick conference, we decided that they were probably going to burgle the house tonight and decided to wait for them. Lucian, Ghendel and I decided to check out the back while Maalvi wait in front.
When we got around back, we noticed a rope hanging from the second story window. I quickly climbed up and saw one of the men standing watch in the room. I hand signaled to Lucian and Ghendel and while he was looking the other way, I climbed into the room. However, he turned as I entered, drew his longsword and attacked! He dealt me a mighty blow and at the noise Ghendel shouted “Give up, you are surrounded”. At this noise, the burglar turns and runs. I followed close behind and was able to down him with my daggers. As I entered the other room (what seemed to be a weapons gallery) I saw the other burglar running for the stairs down to the first level. Lucian had climbed into the house by this time and quickly followed him down the stairs.
Downstairs, the burglar was confronted with a problem: The only way out of the house was through the front door. However, that door was a massive, ironbound slab of wood with many complex locks. Lucian came down the stairs and the burglar drew his daggers. Thinking quickly, Lucian created light onto his sword and brandishing his glowing sword shouted: “Surrender in the name of the goddess!” The burglar was so startled he dropped his weapons. At that moment, I came down the stairs and the burglar turned and ran for the other door. Foiling his escape, I threw both my daggers and took him down. Acting quickly, Lucian called upon his holy powers and healed the fallen burglar back to life. Clerics are the strangest people…
Upon questioning, the burglar informed us that the house belonged to a dwarf. It was obvious that a master weapon smith lived here. Putting two and two together, we decided to call the watch and have them go get Cromwell the weapon smith dwarf. However, they had no idea where to find him. We threatened to throw the burglar out the 2nd story window, but he would still not tell us where the dwarf was, except that he was at a bar somewhere. Finally, they were able to find him and bring him back.
We explained what had happened, how we had caught the burglars in the act. After that was all taken care of, we told him we needed to talk with him about a text that contained an ancient dwarven quote. He knew of this Gorgoldand’s Gauntlet and explained what he knew. It turns out Gorgoldand used this gauntlet as a test of those he thought might be worthy. No one is quite sure why or what Gorgoldand was testing for, but there are rumored to be traps and monsters in the gauntlet. The final prize was a tome of some sort that was supposed to be returned to Gorgoldand as proof.
After talking some more, we decided to return to the temple and explain what we had learned to the high priestess. She was very intrigued by the news and said we would have to investigate the gauntlet to find out why the Evil Priests had the map.
Sept 6th
One on One
Jayme: Halfling Rogue named Langly Reedhill
Prequel to a crisis of morals?
I’ve hunted for as long as I can remember, taking down first rabbits and quails, then deer, wild board, foxes and even a wolf. I’ve always been good with the bow and under my Uncle Higgins tutelage I’ve excelled over the years. When we first encountered those giant rats, it was easy to think of them as just another animal. And when we killed those undead creatures, it was just some foul, crazy magic that was being destroyed.
However, those orcs were different. They thought, they talked and they weren’t that different from us. But killing them was still no big deal. Everyone talks about killing orcs, how they deserve to die, what evil creatures they are. I hardly gave it a second thought except to think they were easier to kill than I had thought they would be.
Then there was the night we caught the thieves breaking into the dwarven smiths house. The first one attacked me with his sword and I fought back. When he ran, it was like chasing down an animal, it was just instinct. When he went down, there was no time to think, there was another thief on the run, there was my companion Lucian to protect. Then the second one fell beneath my blades. If it wasn’t for Lucian’s goodly ways, there would have been two dead people that night.
I still am not sure what to think of it, they were thieves, we were in the right, doing the goddesses will. But now I am a member of the same thieves’ guild. It could have been me on that job that night. Would I have tried to kill someone if they had tried to stop me? Would the guild ask me to kill an innocent man?
Yes, I have joined the Hidden Hand, the thieves’ guild of the city of Mycea. After selling the armor and weapons we took from the orcs, I went to the appointed meeting place with my sealed note from the rogue I had met the night before. It turns out the rouges name was Eronicus and his two friends were Bingo and Dirk.
When I knocked on the door, Denkil Aurbury (aka Den) answered. I gave Den the note and he examined it, took out the ring I had lifted and fit it into the wax seal. Once he was satisfied, he asked me if I wanted to join the guild or just register as a freelancer. I asked him to tell me more about the guild and what benefits I would receive from joining. It turns out that there are two competing guilds in Mycea, the Hidden Hand and the Cudgels. The purpose behind the Hidden Hand (besides getting filthy rich) is to control Mycea through trade, extortion, theft and political office. Those who join the guild are expected to further those goals. In return they receive training, special equipment, certain types of protection and discounts on equipment. However, they must pay dues and tithe 10% of their takes on each job.
After talking with Den for a while about where I was from, what I had been doing lately, where I was going and who I was hanging out with, I told him about the incident with the thieves and Cromwell Durenheart (the dwarven smith). He said it was an unfortunate set of circumstances and that it might have an impact on my joining the guild. He said I’d have to wait and talk to Finneus Nobly (the Lieutenant in charge of this cell). After a quick bite and something to drink, some of the other members of the cell started to filter in. We all went down the street to the Helm and Axe to have a drink and wait for Finneus.
Once Finneus arrived, he and I went for a walk and he asked me some more questions. He wanted to know more about my relationship with the Church and my companions. He also asked me about my involvement with the botched robbery attempt. Apparently, Den had drugged the food and/or drink earlier, as I started to feel light headed and then quickly passed out.
While unconscious, I had a dream about being underground, in some dusty hallways. I sensed danger all around, but that it was not as strong as it once had been. Then my dream shifted and I saw a golden tree. The tree was filled with love and goodness and it had certain expectations surrounding it. On the other side of me was darkness. I fell that the allure of the darkness. It held hidden promises.
I awoke to a bright light. I was sitting in a chair and all around was dark. A bright light was directly in front of me and off to one side was Finneus. He said he regretted having to drug me, but that it was the way. He asked me a few more questions and then asked if I wanted to join the guild. When I replied yes, he asked me “Can you serve the guilds interests first? Never betray the guild and always be loyal to the guild?” I asked if he ever received a truthful answer to that question. He laughed and I said that when the guilds interests and mine coincided, I would, that I would not betray the guild and would be loyal.
He looked around the room and then back at me and said “You’re in”. Once the lights were turned up, I could see that all the members of the cell were gathered around the room. They all had passed judgment and accepted me into their cell. It turns out that the thief I had killed and the one who was in jail were from this cell. In fact, when I returned from my next outing, I would be partnered with the same man that I had caught robbing the dwarfs’ house. His name is Hilbor Millen.
It seems that Finneus thinks I will be valuable to them because of my association with the church. He said that the guild also has had other adventures in their ranks and that they have proven to be very valuable members. I would never betray my friends, but I have no problem gathering information about the church for him. I also think I might be able to help get Hilbor out of his current predicament by testifying that he was not the man we caught robbing the dwarves house (although I’d rather just sneak him out of jail).
After a few more questions, I was told to return the next day for further training. My cover story for that night would be that I had met another Halfling and gone out for a drink and a meal. My cover story for the next few days was that I would be getting a custom suite of masterwork studded leather commissioned for me. This would partly be true as Finneus has agreed to craft such a suite for 200 GP, which should be done in a week or two.
I was given a brass ring with a symbol of a hand engraved on the inside. In addition to pass phrases and secret signs, this ring will allow me access to safe houses and to identify other guild members. I was also told to gather as much information about the undead menace as I could as they thought they might be able to exploit it further.
So far, I do not trust this Finneus Nobly. He has already had me drugged and it is obvious that he would do anything necessary to get what he wants. But at the same time, there is the strong possibility that the guild could get me more gold and gems than I ever imagined. I must be sure to watch my back at all times. It will be interesting either way!
Sept 13th
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter named Garret
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger named Langly Reedhill
There was a little amendment to when we captured the burglars at Cromwell Durenhearts house. When Cromwell returned from the bar, Garret was with him.
The next morning, Garret showed up at the Temple with Cromwell and we all gathered to talk to the High Priestess. Cromwell told the Priestess what he knew about Gorgoldands gauntlet. That it was some type of test for this Gorgoldand fellow (of course no-one had ever seen Gorgoldand or really knew what the test was for) for those he deemed worthy. Cromwell found it strange that some evil clerics would have the map in their possession as it was over 400 years old. After talking a bit about what the evil clerics were up to, he thought that they may have been robbing burial grounds and old tombs for bodies to animate into undead creatures. They may have come across the map while raiding one of those tombs.
Both he and the high priestess thought that the group should investigate the gauntlet further and Cromwell was able to give more precise directions to the location of the gauntlet. Before that, it was decided that Lucian and some of the clerics from the church should investigate the orc lair that Langly, Garret, Ghendel and Phelps had uncovered. They agreed and would meet Garret and myself back in Mycea in a few days as both of us had business to get done. Garret had some clandestine meetings to go to and I had to get a new suite of studded leather armor commissioned.
That night, Garret and I went to the Blue Stag for a drink or two. Garret had a few (13) to many of the now infamous blue stag drinks and got falling down drunk. After he passed out, I helped him home and we went to sleep.
The next day, while eating breakfast, we both received a summons to appear at the court for the trial of the burglar who had been caught at Cromwell’s house. At the courthouse, we waited for a while and then I was called in to give testimony. The prosecution’s representative (as Cromwell wasn’t there himself) performed very poorly and the defendant’s representative (Elius Phinegue) did a much better job.
After Garret and I had both testified, Garret decided that he wanted to wait and talk to the prosecutions representative, as he could not believe that Cromwell would hire such a dimwit. After waiting a few hours, we got bored and decided to leave. On the courthouse steps we started talking about the case and were interrupted by a man calling himself Gurn. He asked us if we were waiting for anything and after a bit of talking, Gurn convinced us to follow him to a good tavern he knew of. We talked as we walked after Gurn until I suddenly noticed that Gurn and a few armed men had us surrounded. When I said I thought he was supposed to take us to a nice tavern, Gurn said he was taking us to a good tavern. I asked what the difference was and he turned, drew a dagger and replied that a good tavern was where he spent OUR money.
At that point, Gurn and six other footpads with clubs attacked us. I shouted to Garret and moved into an alleyway, drew a pair of daggers and attacked one of the thugs. Three more of the thugs and Gurn attacked Garret, who had been surprised at the turn of events. I quickly dispatched one of the thugs, but two more moved to attack me. Meanwhile, Garret was beset by four thugs. He was able to dispatch one of them, but the others pounded away with their clubs and finally knocked him unconscious. While I continued to fight the two thugs, the others robbed Garret of all his possessions. When I dispatched another thug, the rest thought it time to run and all took off in separate directions.
I quickly rushed to Garret’s side and felt for a pulse. He was still alive, but badly bruised and beaten. I got an arm over my shoulder and was able to walk him for a few blocks until he revived. When he learned what had happened, he was very distressed and said we must find the thugs immediately. He said that the greataxe they had stolen was a family heirloom and he must get it back. We made our way back to the temple and told Phelps what had happened. He told us we must report the incident to the city guard. I told Garret that while he was doing that, I would try and find someone who might know where this Gurn fellow could be found.
I was able ascertain where he might be found and met up with Garret and Phelps at the guard station. I told him that Gurn was a regular at a tavern in the seedier part of town called the Skull and Bucket. Garret said that we had to go and find him right away. Phelps thought he would look rather suspicious is his priestly robes, so went back to change. Garret decided to go with him and we agreed to meet at Dragon and Vine, which was about three blocks from the tavern.
When we all arrived there, I told Garret and Phelps that we had to take Gurn alive if he was to tell us where he had the axe hidden (or where he had sold it!). We decided to wait in front of the tavern until Gurn was nice and drunk. After waiting half the night, Gurn and his gang started to leave the tavern and we returned the favor from earlier that day. All the gang members were killed, but Gurn was just knocked unconscious. While Phelps went to report the incident to the guard, we searched Gurn and found a sack containing Garrets dagger and 50 pieces of gold. At this point, we knew that he had fenced the axe.
I told Garret that we would be able to find the fence and get that axe back, but that we had to leave the area before the guard came. We went in search of Phelps and helped him report the incident to the city guards. They said they would take care of the matter.
The next morning, I scoured the city and was able to find who had bought the axe from Gurn. They knew that the workmanship of the axe would be recognized as Cromwell Durenhearts and figured that the fee I had to pay him was just a reward for returning it to the rightful owner.
I returned the axe to Garret and when he saw it, he thanked be profusely and to help pay for the finders fee, he gave me the black pearl that we had found in the orc’s lair. He said that there was a story behind the axe and that he would tell me later, when he was better able. I told him I had plenty of time and he thanked me as one friend to another. I told him he would always be welcome at my hearth, even years from now, when I was old, married and had many children. That seemed to brighten his mood somewhat and we decided to celebrate with a drink (of ALE!) at the Blue Stag.
Date: Wed October 10th
Ron: Elven Cleric name Lucian Galanadel
NPC: Elven Fighter named Maalvi Galanadel
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter (Surveyor) named Garret
Ian: Human Sorcerer named Ghendel
Ian: Ghendel's Raven familiar named Josephine
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger named Langly Reedhill
Gorgoldand’s Gauntlet (part 1):
At long last, our party was gathered all in one place and we were ready to set forth and explore the gauntlet! We gathered up our supplies for we knew the journey would be through the mountains to the northeast. As fall was fast approaching, it could turn cold very quickly and we took along our cold weather gear. After packing up our horses and supplies, we set out on our journey.
The first few days took us through the outlying lands around the great city of Mycea. This was mostly farm land with the occasional village and roadside inn. On the third day, we started to enter the forest and leave the settled lands behind. Lucian and Maalvi told us about their trip back to the Elven wood and how the elves had again erected their wards around the elven cities. They said that the forest was no longer a safe place to travel.
It was on our second night in the woods that found out just how unsafe it was. It was the second watch when Maalvi noticed something foul approaching. He quickly raised the alarm and rushed to waken us all. Shambling out of the darkness was a horde of undead corpses. These were not like the animated skeletons we encountered on our previous adventures. These reeked of death and decay and their bodies were better preserved and fleshed out. We were able to recognize them as zombies from the descriptions our holy friends had given us.
As they lurched and stumbled towards us, Lucian raised his holy symbol high into the night sky and called upon the power of the Goddess. Once again she answered his prayers and the zombies turned and fled in terror. We had learned our lessons from last time and we quickly pursued them. After a running battle, we were finally able to chase them all down and return them to true death. Lucian insisted that the bodies must be burned to remove their evil taint from the world. After gathering wood and cremating the corpses, we tried to catch a few hours of rest.
The next day was an uneventful ride through woods that seemed quieter than normal. The sound of birds and forest animals were few and far between, almost as if they were in hiding or had fled. That night passed with no unwanted interruptions and the next day dawned cold and clear.
That day’s travel saw a thinning of the forest and we camped within view of the mountains. We setup camp, cooked the evening meal and settled in for the night. Once again on Maalvi’s watch we were awaked to shouts of alarm. We had slept in our armor with our weapons close by, so we were more prepared this time. Moving through the trees we saw a horde of animated skeletons and we quickly positioned ourselves to defend the camp.
On spying the undead creatures, Lucian once again raised high his holy symbol and called upon the power of the Goddess. With a brilliant shower of light, the Goddess answered his prayers with a vengeance. A glow spread out from Lucian’s upraised hand and shot out into the night. Each undead skeleton was enveloped in a bright burst of light and crumbled to dust! The power of the Goddess was so strong that Lucian felt enraptured and glowed with a holy light. The rest of us stared in awe at the awesome display of power. After a cheer and praise to the Goddess, we congratulated Lucian on a job well done.
The next few days of travel were uneventful, almost as if the undead powers had withdrawn in caution. We quickly traveled from the forest into the foothills and then into the mountains. Climbing up the rocky passes was slow going. The air was clear and crisp, with a light breeze blowing down from the heights. As we ascended higher, we knew we were nearing our goal.
As we crested a ridge, we saw that we were on a high plateau that ended abruptly in a cliff. Approaching the edge, we saw that it dropped straight down a 100 feet into a clear blue mountain lake. Consulting our map and the directions Cromwell Durenheart had given us, we knew the gauntlet was nearby.
After scouting near the cliff face, we found a rocky outcropping near the cliff edge that had a piton driven into it. Ghendel sent Josephine (his raven) out over the cliff to scout. She quickly noticed a small cave entrance about 60 feet down the cliff face.
Deciding that this must be the entrance to the gauntlet, we searched around for a safe place to put the horses and extra gear. We found a rocky overhang nearby and setup camp.
After deciding on a plan of action, we tied down 100 feet of rope and I climbed down the cliff face to the cave entrance. Peeking inside, I saw a narrow three feet wide passage that lead into the darkness. I uncapped my rod with continual flame cast on the tip. This shed enough light for me to see about 30 feet into the passage. I decided to explore further to find a place where we could re-group after the climb down the cliff face. As I approached the opening to a room about 30 feet into the cliff, a huge black spider dropped from the ceiling. I jumped back into the passage and drew my weapons. However, I noticed that the spider wasn’t moving. Coming closer, I saw that the spider was long dead and was suspended from the ceiling with ropes and a pulley.
I went back to the cave entrance and signaled for the rest of the group to come down. Once we had all assembled in the room, we looked around and found another passageway that lead further in. I took the lead with Garret right behind, followed by the rest of the party. As we walked down the passage, we came upon a strange site. Hanging from the ceiling was a rope with a loop lying on the floor. Inscribed on the floor within the loop was: “Put fut here”
I tugged hard on the rope and it came loose from the ceiling. After looking closely at the floor and finding nothing, I started forward. A few feet further, the ground suddenly opened beneath my feet. Two 5 foot trap doors dropped open and I fell into a deep pit. Luckily, I was able to tumble with the fall. However, one of the up thrust metal spikes lining the pit stabbed through my boot. Ouch!
There was an itchy fungus growing on the floor of the pit and I quickly climbed up the far side. As soon as I poked my head above the floor line, I saw several rat like creatures. They stood about 1 foot tall and were dressed in clothes! As soon as they saw me climb over the lip, they pelted me with tiny javelins. I drew my weapons and charged forward, but the fled quickly down the passage. I pursued them and about fifteen feet further came around a small bend to find a large cavern with a five foot wide ledge that dropped out of site into the darkness. The rat creatures jumped over the edge, caught a small line and slid out of site.
I returned to the trap in the hallway and securing my rope to the ceiling, had the rest of the party swing across the pit. We moved onto the ledge of the large cavern and tried to find a way to cross. We could see that the walls dropped 60 feet down to a large body of water. There was a 5 foot wide wooden platform down on the west side. It was littered with old bones and bits of flotsam and jetsam.
We could see across the cavern to the other side (about 20 feet) were there was another 5 foot wide ledge. There was a small hole about 10 feet down the opposite wall. Into it lead the small line that the rat creatures had used to escape. As we were investigating the area, we were suddenly pelted with tiny javelins from more rat creatures. We retreated into the passage for cover and to discuss how we were going to get across.
As we were talking, Garret noticed a small lump about a foot in height on the far ledge. Thinking we might be able to use it for an anchor for my grapple, Ghendel used his magic to try and move it. He succeeded in pulling it off the ledge and into the water, but not before we were able to tell it was a rusted helmet. As he moved it, a surprised rat creature jumped down a hole that the helmet had been covering.
We quickly decided that we could use the hole as an anchor for the grappling hook. Maalvi, Lucian and Garret readied their bows to shoot any rat creatures that might attempt to cut the rope attached to the grapple and Ghendel readied his mage hand spell to help push the grapple into the hole after I tossed it over. I could have told him not to bother, as I made it into the hole in one shot, pulled the rope and locked the hook in place. Just like hooking a fish!
After tying the rope to another piton high on the cave wall, I slid across to secure the ledge. After chasing the rat creatures deeper into their hole, the rest of the party slid across. Maalvi then untied the far end and swung across. As he was climbing up the rope to the ledge, a rat creature popped out of the hole and tried to cut the rope. Ghendel blasted it with his magic missiles and Maalvi climbed the rest of the way up the ledge. Ghendel flushed the remaining rats from the hole and into the water.
Exploring the ledge, we quickly found another passage leading further in. Following it for 10 feet, we came to another opening. This room had a 15 foot high ceiling and was about 20 feet across. In the middle of the room was a brick wall going up about 10 feet. After searching for traps or anything unusual, I climbed to the top of the wall. On the other side was a 2 foot wide wooden ledge about 5 feet off the floor. On the far wall was a wooden door with four wooden dials spaced evenly along the bottom.
I climbed down onto the wooden ledge and walked along it opposite the door. Once there, I told everyone what I saw and Garret decided to climb over the wall. Once he was on the wooden ledge with me, we told the rest of the party to start coming over. At that point, I decided to lower myself down to the floor by hanging onto the wooden ledge.
As soon as descended, I saw a pair of creatures hiding under the ledge. Squat and low to the ground, they looked like two rust brown armor plated armadillos with a large paddle like tail and two whip like antennae. Their antenna snapped forward and touched the flail I had tucked into my belt. I could see it turn to rust and fall apart just from that light contact!
I quickly pulled myself back up on the ledge, but not quickly enough as another feather light touch reduced my prized short sword to dust. That sword had been my fathers and his fathers before him. I knew I’d have to replace it with a much finer weapon upon my return home or I would be in big trouble…..
I quickly shouted what had happened to Garret and everyone else. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a dwarf move quite so fast up a wall before. I quickly followed him up to the top of the wall. Thinking quickly, readied my bow and tossed one of my metal pitons out onto the open floor. The creatures both made a run for it! We quickly peppered them with arrows, killing one of them. After another round of this sport, they both lay dead on the floor.
After that battle, we decided that we had better hole up here and rest before venturing further into the gauntlet.
Date: Tuesday, November 6th
Ron: Elven Cleric name Lucian Galanadel
NPC: Elven Fighter named Maalvi Galanadel
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter (Surveyor) named Garret
Ian: Human Sorcerer named Ghendel
Ian: Ghendel's Raven familiar named Josephine
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger named Langly Reedhill
Gorgoldand’s Gauntlet (part 2):
Well, the second half of the gauntlet started out ok. After the fiasco with those strange metal eating creatures, we solved the riddle of the wooden door and entered the chamber beyond. It was a large cave, with a high ceiling. To the west was a large checkerboard floor made up of hundreds of small metal tiles. Each tile was a 2 foot square and made of some unknown metal. The walls and ceiling were made of perfectly smooth stone. Garret was the first to test the metal floor by pushing down on one of the tiles with the haft of his axe. After pushing on a few, he got a nasty shock! This was some type of elaborate trap, with each tile glowing a certain number of times depending on how far away was another shock. After working our way through the checkerboard, we encountered a few more of the rat creatures, but they ran away when we returned their fire.
The next trap was a little tougher…. It looked simple at first, just a stairway with an inscription written one word per step. The words formed a riddle that spoke of every 2nd or 3rd step being trapped. I decided to be the first test the riddle. Carefully searching, I was able to see that the 3rd step had less traffic than the 2nd, so jumped from the 2nd to the 4th. But from there my luck ran out. I examined both the 5th and 6th steps, but they looked equally unworn. Reading the riddle again, I thought that if the 3rd step was trapped, then every 2nd or 3rd step after would also be trapped. Taking a gamble, I jumped from the 4th step onto the 6th step.
Next thing I knew, I had been transported somewhere else and a small purple dragon, was swinging its tail at me! After that, everything was a blank until Garret and I woke up naked near the entrance to the gauntlet. The rest of our group was standing near us with bags full of treasure and new magical weapons! Damn! I missed out on the best part. Guess I’ll be a little more careful next time. These traps are tougher to find than I had every imagined, especially those magic ones.
We decided that the first thing we needed to do was get our equipment back. Garret and I knew we would not survive the trip back without our clothes, armor and weapons. Figuring that the rat creatures had to have a lair somewhere, we once again searched the first room. This time we were more determined and continued to search until we found a secret door. This led us through a narrow tunnel into a large natural cavern. There were lots and lots of the rat creatures milling about four open pits in the floor. Some of them were pillaging through our equipment, tearing apart the food and clothes. They scattered quickly once we appeared, but some of them stayed to fight.
Once we had dispatched or scared off the rest, we rummaged through all the trash and filth and recovered some of our equipment. But our weapons were not to be found anywhere. Figuring that if we had missed this secret area, there might be another, we delved deeper into the gauntlet once more.
In the cavern with the water filled chasm, we found another hidden tunnel. This one went up a few feet into the ceiling and then leveled out into a small cave. When I climbed up into the entrance, a voice spoke in our heads. After telling it we needed our equipment if we hoped to survive the journey home, the small purple dragon appeared at the end of the cave. In a flash of insight, Ghendel was able to recall exactly what the dragon was and tell us more about it. It was a Pseudo Dragon. Most of them are good in nature and fairly intelligent. They have tails with a sleeping poison in the barbs. That is what it had used to knock myself and Garret out after we had been teleported from the trapped stairway.
Both Garret and I tried to impress upon the dragon how urgently we needed our equipment back. It said that it would be willing to trade something of equal value. At this point, Garret began to babble on about how important his axe was and how much it meant to his honor, etc. For something that is so important, he seems to lose it an awful lot. After about 10 minutes of listening to him try to bargain with the dragon, Lucian stepped forward and offered the magnificent longsword he had found in the treasure room in exchange for our equipment back. Garret of course would not hear of such a thing and launched into another long, long, long series of bargaining attempts mixed with pleadings and something about cutting off his hand. Finally losing patience, I threw two daggers at the dragon. Of course what I thought was the dragon was simply an illusion and the daggers passed right through it.
At this point the dragon appeared and attacked me with its tail again. Once again I was put to sleep by the poison. But this time, I fell not only asleep, but down from the 10 foot high ledge I was standing on. Of course the floor rudely awakened me. The rest of the group rushed forward and interceded with the dragon.
The dragon decided that Lucian’s generous offer showed that he was of strong moral character and worthy of passing Gorgoldand’s test. The dragon had been put here to oversee the test and judge those who entered. He returned all our equipment and took naught it return, except for the two daggers I had thrown at the illusion.
Now properly equipped for our journey home, we decided to leave the gauntlet. However, the rope we had used to climb down the cliff face was no longer there. We decided that I should climb back up the cliff and lower down another rope. However, there was a reason why the first rope was missing and I quickly discovered it upon reaching the top of the cliff.
The first thing I saw was a dwarf with a loaded crossbow pointed straight at my head. He urged me up the last few feat and shouted down that the rest had better come up or the Halfling would get it. At this point, I could see that the dwarf was not alone. A burley halforc, a man dressed in winter clothing, a woman in leather armor and a man dressed in robes all waited nearby. The woman also carried a crossbow and she moved close to the cliff face and threw our rope back down. Once again the dwarf shouted that they had better come up quickly or else. He then proceeded to take my short sword, bow and daggers. However, he missed the two I had concealed in my specially made belt. He moved me away from the cliff edge, but kept his crossbow trained on me.
The rest of my companions arrived at the top one by one and all received the same welcome. Garret, Ghendel and Maalvi soon joined me and parted from their weapons. As Garret cleared the top of the cliff and the woman moved forward to take his weapons, a badger appeared in a flash of light. Taking them all by surprise, it quickly attacked the closest enemy. As the dwarf with the crossbow trained on me turned to stare at the badger, I quickly drew my concealed daggers and attacked! Garret was also doing the same. He drew his axe and moved to attack the man in robes. Thinking on his feet, Maalvi rushed the woman with the crossbow and pushed her over the edge of the cliff! Garret was able to toss Maalvi his rapier and we quickly finished off the rest of the group. The half-orc gave us some trouble, but Maalvi was able to use the same tactic again and over the cliff edge he went. Remind me never to stand next to a really tall cliff during combat….
Date: Monday, November 26th
Ron: Elven Cleric name Lucian Galanadel
NPC: Elven Fighter named Maalvi Galanadel
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter (Surveyor) named Garret
Ian: Human Sorcerer named Ghendel
Ian: Ghendel's Raven familiar named Josephine
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger named Langly Reedhill
Cold Weather
Once we had recovered from the surprise attack and fierce battle, we sent Josephine to scout out the camp where we had left the horses. She reported back that it was a blood bath. Something large had killed all the horses.
Luckily for the dwarf who had ambushed us, he was simply knocked unconscious from his wounds. Lucian was able to heal him and he returned to consciousness. He told us that his group had been waiting for us to come out of the gauntlet and their intent was to rob and kill us. He also told us that he was part of a larger group that was camped about 3-4 hours away. It turns out his name was Breagar Fanghelm and he was from a dwarven clan that had also been wiped out around the same time as Garrets clan. He told us this as we escorted him back to where our camp had been stationed.
As we traveled the weather quickly turned cold and a massive storm started to blow in. The temperature quickly dropped below freezing and snow started to fall. When we reached the site where our camp had been, all we found were blood, bones and large humanoid footprints. All our horses, extra food, blankets and equipment was gone. As it was about 4 hours until nightfall, we knew we had to either find this dwarfs bandit camp or freeze to death that night.
We started walking through the freezing snow and wind. While we walked, Garret started to interrogate Breagar. Breagar eventually revealed that there were about 10-12 more bandits back at the camp and that it was south about 3 hours walk.
We continued to trudge through the ice and snow, but it was getting colder. Even with our winter clothing we started to feel the cold. Both Lucian and Breagar were strongly affected, with Breagar passing out with an obvious case of hypothermia just before we reached the bandit camp.
Or what was left of the camp. It looked like whatever giants had killed our horses had also taken out the bandits. As darkness was quickly approaching, Maalvi and I searched for a place to hole up for the night, while the rest of the group started gathering firewood. We found a likely corpse of trees and built up a bank of snow to block the wind. Using a flask of oil, we were able to get a fire going and quickly huddled around it. Breagar was doing much worse and Lucian informed us that he would die unless he had another source of heat. Garret volunteered to be that source. Both dwarves stripped naked and Garret huddled close to Breagar and we covered them with blankets. It was Garret who saved Breagar’s life for the 2nd time that day.
None of the group seemed to sleep easy that night. I know I was bothered by dreams whose meaning seemed quite clear. After having a conversation with Philo (who told me that it has been in my family for generations and chose me specifically) I was able to fall into a deep peaceful slumber.
The next day dawned bright and clear. The storm had blow over during the night, leaving about 4-5 feet of new fallen snow behind. We decided to do some scouting to get a better lay of the land. We knew we’d either have to find more food or we’d soon starve. Water wasn’t a problem, but we only had a days worth of rations left and we were too high up for good hunting.
Ghendel sent Josephine off on a reconnaissance mission and the rest of us started poking around the bandit camp. After a while, I felt something under the snow that seemed promising. After digging down a few feet, I found the top of a partially collapsed tent buried under the snow. Digging into the tent, I found an open area that was 2-3 feet high and about 6-7 feet square. There were four winter blankets, a backpack and a small chest. In the backpack were more winter clothes and 10 days worth of rations. The chest was locked, but I quickly fixed that. Inside were 4 vials and a few coins. Ghendel seemed interested in the vials, so I gave them to him to tinker with.
Josephine soon returned and reported that she had seen what looked like a large wall of thorns to the south. Maalvi and I trekked south to investigate and saw that that land seemed to narrow between two steep mountain slopes right where the thorn wall was. We returned to camp and told the others what we had found. Once again Josephine was sent on a scouting mission, but this time farther south, past the thorn wall. When she returned she reported that she had seen four large humanoid creatures dragging something behind them. They were walking down the center of the defile towards a second thorn wall. At the second thorn wall, it looked like there was a larger humanoid creature standing guard.
We knew that we were too far up in the mountains to make it back without starving to death. A trek to the tree line would take 5 days, about 2 days more than we had food for. Even then there was no guarantee we’d be able to hunt enough game to sustain us all the way back to Mycea. We decided that we had to get all our food and camping gear back. With this in mind, we formed a plan of attack.
We decided that the giant humanoids obviously had a lair nearby and foraged out to pillage, plunder and hunt. We figured that if we could make a smoky fire, they would send out a party to investigate. We would lay in wait and ambush them on the way to the fire.
We found a good position, partially up a hill, with good tree cover and snow banks to hide in. As the rest of the group prepared the ambush, Maalvi and I moved north and made a smoky fire. We then returned to the group and lay in wait. Josephine once again acted as the lookout.
We waited about 2 hours before she spotted two of the same large creatures moving our way. As they approached they split off from the direct path to the fire. One circled around farther west and the other followed the slope of the hill. Luckily for us, its path would bring it right into bow shot. As the creature approached, I recognized it as one of my most hated foes, a giant! Actually, it was one of the lesser giants, an Ogre. While not as strong as a true giant, it was still an evil, smelly creature.
We waited until the ogre was within range an then I opened fire. I stepped into plain sight as I fired, hoping to draw the stupid creature closer so that the rest of the group could also fill it full of arrows. Our plan worked perfectly and the ogre went down in a hail of arrows. Next we needed to draw the second one closer so that we could repeat our ambush.
I walked out to the dead ogre body and looked for loot. I made myself perfectly obvious, hoping that the second ogre would see me and approach. My plan worked perfectly. As the ogre started towards me, I acted like I had just noticed him and started running towards the fire. Once the ogre was within 300 feet or so, I started to lead it back towards my waiting companions. We were able to successfully repeat the plan and the second ogre went down in another hail of arrows.
Now that we had drawn out two of them, we knew there were at least two more. We figured that they would come looking for the missing pair after a few hours and we decided to setup another ambush. This time we chose the first thorn wall as the spot.
We stationed Maalvi and Garret inside the first set of brambles. Once the ogres had passed out of the brambles, we would attack. Maalvi and Garret would prevent the ogres from retreating back into the brambles.
Unfortunately, our plan didn’t work out exactly as desired. One of the ogres noticed us hiding outside the bramble wall and started to move towards our position. We immediately jumped from our hiding places and attacked. Both ogres threw their huge long spears at me, but I dodged aside. Good thing too, as the spears probably weighed more than I did. We started to pepper them with arrows, but they charged our position. One of them attacked me with his great club, but missed. The second one bashed Lucian with a mighty blow. Lucian looked like he wouldn’t be able to take many more of those.
We continued to fire arrows, while garret and Maalvi charged out of the thorn walls. One ogre bashed Lucian again with his great club, forcing Lucian to step back and call upon the healing power of the goddess. Another volley of arrows felled the first ogre and the second decided to run back into the thorn walls. Of course, it decided to smash Maalvi into a bloody pulp along the way. That was it’s downfall as we were able to get in enough attacks to kill it instead.
It was fast approaching nightfall and the temperature was starting to drop. We decided to hole up in the buried tent I had found back at the bandit campsite. We thought it would be best not to light a fire this night, in case more of the brutes were still around. We all managed to squeeze down into the small space and our body heat kept us nice and warm. Before settling in for a rest, I made a second tunnel almost to the surface. I left a small amount of snow covering it, so no one would know it was there. I’ve found it’s always good to have a second escape route. Now for a little sleep before my turn at watch….
Date: Friday, Jan 4th
Ron: Elven Cleric name Lucian Galanadel
NPC: Elven Fighter named Maalvi Galanadel
NPC: Dwarven rogue named Breagar Fanghelm
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter (Surveyor) named Garret
Ian: Human Sorcerer named Ghendel
Ian: Ghendel's Raven familiar named Josephine
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger named Langly Reedhill
Once we were snuggled safely in our hiding hole for the night, Ghendel and Lucian took some time to figure out what types of scrolls we had collected over the last few adventures. It turns out that one of them (a sleep scroll) would come in very handy the next day. Just before we went to sleep that night, it started to snow. In fact, it looked like it was going to snow all through the night and into the next day.
We awoke a few hours before dawn. Our plan was to attack the Ogre camp before it was light, hoping for the element of surprise. We packed our last day of rations and our remaining equipment and setout. As predicted, the snow was still falling, large, white flakes floating slowly to the ground. We decided that the snow might work in our favor, allowing us to get close without detection. With that in mind, we started our trek to the first wall of thorns.
Once we were close to the thorn wall, I went ahead to scout out the area. As I approached the first wall, I could see a large mound of snow sitting in the middle of the path through the thorn walls. It did not seem like a natural snowdrift at all. I returned to the group and reported what I had found. We decided that I should scout out the other approach to the thorn wall. It looked like they were waiting for us, as there was another snow mound close to the thorn wall.
Because it was still early morning, we decided that we needed to use the element of surprise and attack while we could. While the rest of the group prepared to attack with their bows, I approached the first mound of snow. As I started to dust off the cover of snow, an ogre jumped out and attacked!
As it turns out, they had laid a well planned ambush. In fact, it was too well laid out, there must be someone or something much smarter than your average ogre calling the shots…..
As the first ogre burst from the snow, holding his giant club, a second one (about 10 feet away) also shook of his blanket of snow and attacked. The first one tried to bash me with his club, but I dodged aside. However, the second one was able to poke me with his spear. Blood looks so brilliantly red against the white of new fallen snow.
Figuring I had a better chance of hiding than facing two ogres by myself, I dived under the snow and burrowed in. The rest of the party started to pepper the ogres with arrows. At this point, another two ogres charged out from the thorn wall. Things were starting to look grim. Four well armed ogres and we hadn’t even made it past the first thorn wall!
Breagar charged at the first ogre who had come from behind the thorn wall and Garret wasn’t far behind him. Guess dwarves hate ogres almost as much as I do. While the ogres were still poking at the area where I had burrowed into the snow, I burst forth a few feet away and skewered one of them with my daggers! Luckily for me, his large, stinky corpse fell between me and the remaining ogre.
Things weren’t going so well for Breagar. The first ogre thrust his spear at him. You could see the point pierce through and come out the other side. However, Ghendel was able to use the scroll he had identified to put the other ogre to sleep. It probably saved Breagar’s life.
By that time, Garret had arrived to help out. Between him, Breagar and Lucian with his longbow, they were able to dispatch the ogre without suffering to much damage. Ghendel once again made effective use of his powers and finished off the ogre Maalvi and I had been pounding on. Garret used his axe to finish off the last ogre which was still asleep from Ghendel’s spell.
After watching Ghendel in action, I’ve decided that I am going to ask him to teach me to use magic. I can figure out how to activate magic items such as scrolls, wands, etc, but it’s not the same as understanding how the magic actually works. And if you think about it, it makes perfect sense. What better teacher than the mighty Mage of Mycea?
Once we had regrouped and talked over the ambush, we decided that if we continued on, we would have an even better chance of surprising the next group. So we continued on to the second thorn wall. Because it was still dark and snowing, Josephine was not able to scout ahead for us. We decided that we had to get a better idea of what was waiting for us at the second thorn wall.
I downed my potion of invisibility and disappeared from sight! It was almost too easy. The new fallen snow muffled all sound and I was able to walk right up to the thorn wall. This time, there was no ambush, just four ogres standing guard. I decided to take a look past the wall. On the other side, there was a small wooden hut and a large fire. Roasting on a spit over the fire was half of a horse. Mmmmmm, the smell of roasting meat was too much to resist, especially after eating dry rations for the last three days. I sliced off a crispy chunk and wolfed it down.
I quickly returned to my companions and reported what I had seen. A plan was quickly formed and we started forward. I would sneak back through the thorn walls and set the wooden guard hut on fire. Once the ogres were distracted by the burning hut, we would all attack.
The plan went off almost without a hitch. However, as I was dumping my flask of oil over the floor of the hut, I noticed that I was starting to become visible again. I quickly set the oil alight and dove into a nearby snow bank.
As the flames engulfed the guard station, the ogres came running out of the thorn walls. As stupid as ever, they just stood and stared at the flames. Finally one of them yelled to go get help. At this point the rest of my party arrived and attacked. Because the ogres were distracted by the burning building, everyone was able to approach and attack before the ogres were ready. As the rest of the party waded into melee with the ogres, one of them tried to go for help. As it ran past, I sprang from my hiding place and pierced its neck with two thrown daggers. It went down in a spray of blood.
The rest of the battle went well. Garret took out another ogre with his axe. That axe really seems to like the taste of ogre flesh. Maalvi switched from his bow to his rapier and dagger (a fighting style I also find very effective, but a short sword is more to my liking).
Lucian still hasn’t had a chance to use his new magical long sword. I must say that it is one of the most beautiful weapons I have ever seen. And according to Ghendel, it’s also very magical. I wonder if it feels different in battle wielding a magical weapon. Of course, I do have that small mace that is also supposed to be magical. Of course it’s not nearly as nice as Lucian’s sword.
After the battle, we started to cut some of the roasted horse meat up for a quick meal. We also stored some of it in the snow if we happen to come back this way. While we were doing this, I overheard Breagar say something in dwarvish: “Klängdenstürm”. After a few questions, he told us that he had recognized the trail and mountains nearby as the back entrance to the Klängdenstürm mithral mines. The Klängdenstürm clan of dwarves was one of the richest and most powerful of the clans. They (like all the other dwarves) sealed up their holds and mines during the great exodus over 600 years ago. It turns out that Breagar’s true purpose in these mountains was to look for this mine.
Suddenly I realized that this might be the third part of that dream I had just before I left home. The first part was meeting Lucian and Maalvi, the second was meeting Ghendel and Garret and the third was a cavern filled with gold, jewels, armor and weapons. This dwarven mine might just fit the bill.
Of course, Garret was beside himself with impatience to get going and he and Breagar started walking. The rest of us finished packing up the horse meat and had a quick conference. Was it wise to continue so quickly? Ghendel and Lucian were almost out of spells from the last two battles. Garret, Breagar, Maalvi and I were still slightly wounded, even after Lucian’s healing. But we had come too far to turn back now, so we set out for the mines of Klängdenstürm.
After catching up with Garret and Breagar, we soon learned that this was one of the smaller, back entrances. The main entrance had (he guessed) been sealed during the exodus. Soon we could see where the path entered into the mountain. A set of inscrolled and carved gates lay shattered inward from some great force. After taking a look at the writing, I could make out the fact that this was indeed Klängdenstürm and contained within were mines of mithral. It looked like the gates had been breached long ago, so we guessed that the ogres had just been using the mines as a hideout. As we passed the gates, a large 25 foot high arched tunnel descended into darkness. Garret informed us that these entrances usually had a slightly sloping tunnel that ran for hundreds, if not thousands of yards to a second set of inner gates. These inner gates were usually trapped and had arrow slits on both sides.
With this in mind, we had Garret and Breagar range out in front, with the rest of the party 60 feet behind. This would allow the dwarves to use their darkvision to best advantage. Not too far into the tunnel, we came upon our first skeletons. They were old, maybe 400 or 500 years old and there were dwarf, elf and orc skeletons. But these were not just any elves. Lucian recognized the dress and weapons to be those that the dark elves carried. Drow!
Suddenly the guidance that Ahnyweh provided Lucian to “go south” seemed to make sense. If the drow were after something in the mines, maybe there was a reason for us to be here (besides trying to get back our equipment and enough food to make it out of the mountains alive).
We continued down the tunnel until I heard a sound. After hushing everyone, I listened again, but could not quite make out exactly what it was. However, there was someone or something down at the end of the tunnel. We once again started forward, even more cautious than before. Finally, far in the distance, we could see a small flickering light. It looked like it might be some type of fire. We doused our lights and continued on. We could see that we were close to the second set of gates. The two dwarves slowed down to search for traps. Once we had caught up with them, we conferred and decided that if we just followed the path of footprints, we would probably be safe. However, there was still the problem of the murder holes that might be manned by the ogres. We decided that the dwarves should go ahead without lights and that they might be able to sneak past.
They set out and we followed about 60 feet behind. We could now see that the inner gates had also been battered down. There was a decent amount of light coming through the gates, enough that there must be a good sized fire in the room beyond. Once Breagar and Garret had passed the first set of murder holes, Breagar suddenly ran forward to the entrance. He stopped and stared in awe at what he saw there.
Unfortunately for Breagar, the two ogres hiding on the other side of the shattered gates did not have the same reaction. One of them smashed Breagar to the ground with his huge club. If he lives, this will be the third time we have saved his life.
Once they were finished with Breagar, they charged into the tunnel. That was their last mistake. After filling one with arrows and exchanging blows with the other, we left their dead bodies and continued to the inner gates.
The sight that met our eyes was amazing. Now I know why dwarven mines are spoken of with such awe. The chamber beyond the gates was filled with two sights I will not soon forget. The first was the most impressive stonework I have ever seen. Huge pillars had been carved from the rock. Each pillar was a masterwork of carving, with ornate decorations covering its base. They ascended far overhead into the darkness. The second was something that I had only heard described once by my uncle Higginbottom. He had traveled far and wide before returning home and had encountered many types of creatures. Like me, he also despised giants, ogres and others of their ilk. While he sneered at ogres, often just killing them without a thought, he told me tales of his battle with a monster known as an ogre magi. But these ogre magi are no more like an ogre than a whale is like a fish. To start with, ogre magi have blue skin and small horns on their head. They are powerful users of magic and skilled warriors, more than a match for a group like ours. And there were two of them standing in the center of the pillared cavern!
As all this ran through my mind, my feet decided it was time to get as far away as possible. I agreed with them and was just turning to run when Philo spoke to me. Ever since my dream a few nights ago, I’ve been trying to talk with Philo at least once a day and it looks like it’s warming up to me now. When uncle Higginbottom gave me the necklace, he said that it would help me when I most needed it and it looks like he was right. Philo told me to take another look and be sure that what I thought I saw was what was really there.
I shouted to the creatures, asking what they were doing here. Instead of replying, they advanced forward. I knew then that they were not true ogre magi, as a magi would have used its magic as a reply. True to form, Garret was the first to move forward to attack. He engaged one of the creatures while the rest of us filled the other with arrows. Maalvi moved in to help Garret, who had taken a grievous wound from the huge creature’s great sword. But the second one moved in to attack Lucian and Maalvi had to divert his attention to defend his brother. He need not have bothered, as Lucian used a divine spell to cause the creature to flee in fear.
We moved in to surround the one battling Garret and were able to finish him off after a fierce battle. As its dead body fell to the ground, its blue skin and horns disappeared. It had some type of magic that had made it look like an ogre magi when in fact it was just an ogre! How had Philo known that?
With the first one dead, we quickly dispatched the second and now had the chamber all to ourselves. On the opposite side of the room from the shattered inner gate was another gate, but this one was still intact. Garret walked over to take a closer look and could not resist touching it. A huge flash of lightning and a clap of thunder knocked him back 10 feet. The gate was trapped! And what a trap it was. Garret was almost killed outright and only Lucian and Ghendel’s timely intervention saved his life. I must say, that dwarf tries to die more often that any other person I’ve every met. Of course Breagar is trying his best to top him…
Once we had a chance to take stock of the room’s contents, I was glad we had been forced to come here. Several large locked chests, a few jars full of copper, gold and electrum, enough food and water to last us the winter and a small wagon to put it all in. Also in the piles of fur and equipment were some jeweled chalices, a small scroll case containing a map and other treasures.
We decided that we would stay and rest a few days. It seemed a good place to stay, easily defensible and since the gate was still trapped, it was doubtful anything would be coming through it. Of course, that night we awoke to sounds of battle coming from the other side of the door…
Date: Thursday, Jan 18th 2002
Ron: Elven Cleric name Lucian Galanadel
NPC: Elven Fighter named Maalvi Galanadel
NPC: Dwarven rogue named Breagar Fanghelm
Chuck (NPC): Dwarven Fighter (Surveyor) named Garret
Ian: Human Sorcerer named Ghendel
Ian: Ghendel's Raven familiar named Josephine
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger named Langly Reedhill
In the entrance hall to the mines of clan Klängdenstürm is where we found our first treasure trove. Chests filled with copper, silver and gold pieces. Gold chalices overflowing with rubies, diamonds, emeralds, sapphires and gems I’ve only heard about before. There were weapons and items of mysterious magical power. Ghendel cast him magic and he sorted the magical glows from the normal equipment. As he described the glow on each magical item, I tried to figure out how each one worked. There was a massive steel chalice that did not spill its contents even when tipped on it side. A finely woven rope responded to my desire to snake up a pillar and tie itself off. I must say, that will defiantly come in handy.
Of course after it was secured to the pillar, I had to climb up and see what was up there. And it’s a good thing I did. Ghendel was kind enough to cast light onto a coin and toss it up to me. By its light, I could see that there was a balcony about 60 feet above the floor. When I tossed the coin onto the balcony, I could see armored figures standing in a row along the back wall. I commanded the rope to snake up and tie itself to the balcony railing and then shimmed across. As I get closer, I could see that there were dwarven skeletons within the suites of platemail. Once I was clinging to the outside of the railing, I could also see that there were no cobwebs or dust on the suites of armor. There were also skeletal footprints in the dust of the balcony, alongside armored footprints. We would find out that evening exactly what had made those footprints…
After examining all the magical treasures, counting the coins and appraising all the gem stones, we were tired and ready for sleep. We decided to camp the night in the entrance hall, as that seemed as safe a place as any. That night we awoke to the sounds of battle. Some sounds came from the balcony high above our heads; while other sounds came to us both from the tunnel we had entered the hall by and from the other side of the lightning gates. It must have been a fierce and terrible magic that animated the skeletons of the dead, for even the scattered bones within the entrance hall shook and rattled as if they too wanted to rise and fight.
Fortunately, it seemed that the skeletons had no reason to enter the hall, but stayed on the other side of the door and up on the balconies. After an hour of so, the sounds of battle slowly died away. The bones within the hall stopped their movement and everything was still once more. What a terrible fate to die here and have your bones consigned to endless battle.
The next day, we packed everything into a magical sack that was larger inside than out (I know, I jumped inside it and found a small room inside the sack!). We had enough food and water to make it back down below the snowline, so we set out.
The trip back to Mycea was long but uneventful. As we traveled, Maalvi and I taught the others about wilderness survival: how to hunt while on the move, how to find the quickest path through the undergrowth and how to tell direction while deep within a forest or mountain range.
Each night around the campfire, Ghendel and I would share some of the ale we had packed into the magical sack and talk about magic. He would explain to me how to recognize what type of spell a mage was casting or the difference between a conjuration spell and an evocation spell. We talked of the history of magic and how it had changed history. He seemed at times to know everything you could possibly know about magic and the next moment he would not even remember what we were talking about.
When we return to Mycea, I am going to do everything I can to help return Ghendel to his rightful state. While I know it is natural to become forgetful as you grow older, it’s obvious that Ghendel’s bouts of insight and forgetfulness are not normal or natural.
It took us almost three ten days to return to Mycea. Riding horses is so much faster than walking. Upon our return, I noticed that there were more guards up on the walls than when we had left. When we stopped at the gates, the guard asked us our business. Once he recognized Lucian as a priest, he told us about the bandit raids that had been happening. These were different than the caravan raids that had been occurring when we first came to Mycea. These ones were simply to steal money, equipment, food and other goods. We thanked him for the information and entered the city.
Once inside, we split up, with Garret and Breagar going to Cromwell’s house as planned and the rest of us going to the temple to report. Upon arriving at the temple, Lucian found an adept who took us in to see Mave Corandorn (the high priestess). She was surprised to see us, as she thought we might be dead. We told her our tale and explained why we were so late returning.
She was disappointed to hear that Gorgoldands gauntlet was simply a testing ground, but she was amazed and horrified when she heard of the mines of Klängdenstürm and the undead there. When Lucian showed her the dragon hilted sword he had found at Gorgoldands, she spoke a few words of magic and was able to tell Lucian some of the swords magical powers.
Mave also told us that the Mage Guild had heard of Ghendel/Yolandales return and that she had told the guild masters about her discovery of Ghendel’s curse. They wanted to see Ghendel as soon as he returned, as they might have a way to reverse or circumvent the curse. Once we had told our story and received a blessing, we retired to our rooms to stow our gear, take a bath and dress in new clothes.
On my way back from the baths, I met Phelps in the hallway and dragged him back to my room to tell him about the amazing journey we’d been on. As the telling took longer than expected, he came along with us so I could finish it. We planned on meeting Garret and Breagar at the Blue Stag to divide the loot, but first we had to visit the Mage Guild.
Once at guild, I was amazed to see a statue of Ghendel/Yolendale out front. If I didn’t know better, I’d think that Ghendel was one of the founders of the guild here in Mycea. Of course, considering his age, he very well could be. As we approached the steps, a student stopped and gasped “Are you Yolendale?” Once Ghendel confirmed, we were ushered inside to the main hall. A large circular room with two set of balconies filled with chairs. In the center of the room on a raised dais was a ring of chairs. We were asked to sit and wait for the guild masters. After a few moments, twelve men and women in robes entered and stood before the chairs on the dais. Three of them were Elven and the other nine were human.
One of them introduced himself as Lecrutius and said he was the principle master of the school. He explained what he had learned from Mave and the church about Ghendel/Yolendale. The guild had always wondered how the final battle between Yolendale and the Lich had turned out. They also thought they may have a ritual that could reverse the curse and restore Ghendel’s magic. After explaining this and more, Ghendel said that he would be willing to undergo the first step of the ritual. Lecrutius thanked him and said to return in the morning. Cleitus, a pupil at the school, was assigned to help Ghendel and show him around.
First we went to see Yolendale’s old mage study. Apparently Yolendale had been one of the founders of the school. Mages traveled from far and wide to learn at his school. All three of the elves traveled from their forest homes to study under him. After seeing his old library and laboratory, I can see why! He has by far the largest and most complete collection of books I’ve ever seen. It would do any Halfling proud to have even a tenth of those books as his collection.
After a quick tour of the school (I’ve already counted 8 statues of Yolendale, but I was told there are 37 statues in total!) we realized that we had to meet Garret and Breagar at the Blue Stag to divvy up the rest of the loot.
After counting all the coins and gems, it turned out to be a decent size share each. Of course it’s more than I’ve seen my entire life, but compared to the dream I had, it’s just a drop in the bucket. We gave Garret and Breagar the gold and platinum coins as they informed us that they would be leaving on a long journey. I knew we all had things to take care of over the next few ten days, but it sounds like Garret is going to be gone for a long time.
We had one last night of drinking (and introduced Breagar to Phalen’s infamous Blue Stage drink) before we said goodbye to Garret and Breagar. He promised he would return after he had completed what was required of him.
The next day, I was up just before the sun and off to finish my errands before we had to take Ghendel to the Mage College. I was able to find Will again, he was still living right where he had described to me last time, and we set out to do our good deed. At least all that copper will be put to good use and it’s almost easier than exchanging it for gold anyway. I think Will liked helping me with that job (and I know he liked the gold I paid him to do it).
Date: Wednesday, Jan 23rd
One on One with Jayme and Josh
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger named Langly Reedhill
That night, at the Blue Stag, after everyone (except Maalvi of course) was pretty drunk, I decided to slip away for an hour or two and make my report to the Hidden Hand. I told Maalvi that I had to take a bathroom break and would be back in a while.
I slipped out of the bar and made my way over to our cell’s safe house. I gave the secret signals and was greeted inside by Denkil and two apprentices, Canter and Ginger. Den asked where I’ve been; as they were expecting me back weeks ago. He says they’ve had to give a few of the jobs they had slated for me to the other apprentices. Good for them, bad for me.
I tell him about Gordgoldands gauntlet and what we found there. It turns out that Cromwell was correct and it was just a test. He was quite interested in the coin dragon at the end of the gauntlet, but once I explained that it didn’t have all that much treasure, he was less impressed. He did say he wanted to take a look at these blank tomes, as he thought they might not be blank after all. I must remember to bring them by tomorrow…
He also mentioned that Hilbor was anxious to meet me. It turns out he was released after my testimony, but that he has had to undergo some alterations to prevent recognition.
I continued on with my story, telling about the bandit ambush after we left the gauntlet. I explained how the bandits got the jump on us and how one managed to survive. When I mentioned the dwarf that had survived, they were amazed again. Another dwarf?
I explained how our camp, horses and equipment had been destroyed or carried off by ogres and how we went to find the bandits camp and how it had suffered the same fate. I told of our battle with the ogres. When he heard we had bested 12 ogres, he was impressed. But then I recounted, I realized that the total was 17 ogres and told him that I had forgotten the ogres in the dwarven mithral mines, which brought a moment of stunned silence. “Mithral mines?” he asked.
So I told the tale of the remaining ogres, the entrance tunnel and the battle the followed. They were amazed at the undead skeletons and the battle sounds that we heard that night. Den said that we had to tell Finneus (the cell leader) at once about this. But before we left, I showed him one of the deep blue sapphires I had recovered from the gauntlet and told him it was to be split amongst our cell, as I had not been able to contribute in other ways during my absence. He took that well!
Next, we were outside and on our way to see Finn. Up onto the rooftops and there Den showed me another secret of the Hidden Hand: the skypath, as it was called. During the construction of many of the buildings, the Hand had managed to alter and extend certain key areas, forming a pathway across the rooftops. This secret was only known to trusted members of the Hand.
We make our way to the west side of Mycea. Our destination is a non-descript, turreted tower poking above the skyline. On the way, I ask Den about the extra guards around the city. He tells me that some brigands have been entering the city and causing general strife. It seems the brigands are neither of the Hand nor the Cudgel. I will have to investigate these disturbances later.
We arrive at the tower and exchange the correct code phrase: ‘The crow has cawed and has sand in its gullet’ answered by ‘And in the grist, a night is prolonged’. Inside, we meet Eronicus (the fellow who had “introduced” me to the guild with my test of skill at the Blue Stag). It turns out that Finn has been training Hilbor in the art of throwing and tonight is his final test.
We enter a large round room filled with a few other members of the Hand. In the center is a table with several throwing knives, daggers and several other unusual objects such as bottles, batons, swords, darts, rocks, etc. At the far end of the room are several targets and practice dummies. Hilbor and Finn are standing next to the table.
Once everyone is there, we all sit around the outside of the room and watch as Finn puts Hilbor through his paces. And what a demonstration it is! Any Halfling would be proud to have half the skill at throwing that those two demonstrated that night.
Finally the demonstration is over. Finn congratulates Hilbor and says that he has learned all that he can teach him. He then says that Hilbor must pass one final test. He must teach one of the rogues in the room something that he has learned.
He then asks for volunteers. Deciding that this is as good a way as any to greet Hilbor, I raise my hand (along with a score of others). Hilbor notices me and says: “Langly, so nice of you to join the living. Come forth and learn”
We exchange a few pleasantries and then he asks: “Of all the things you have seen this night, what would you like to learn”. I tell him of my desire to be able to draw and throw daggers with the blinding speed he had demonstrated. He tosses me a dagger and tells me to throw it at a target. I guess it was his way of judging my skill level. Of course, hitting a still target at 30 feet is child’s play and I easily land the bulls-eye. The gathered rogues give a cheer and we get down to business. Over the next half-hour, he explains the skill of retrieval. The secret is teaching your body and mind to know without thinking where the next blade will appear from. It is not unlike slight of hand. Hiding and retrieving small objects for amusement and practical jokes.
Once Hilbor is done, Finneus approaches and says that he is pleased with Hilbors work. Finn retrieves a silver talon of a hawk and gives it to Hilbor. It was a mark for passing the test that night.
Den comes over and says that we should adjourn to another room and hear my tale. Finn, Hilbor, Den and I enter a small alcove, which Finn seals with a word. After filling our glasses with a fine red wine, we toast my return and I start my tale. After telling of the gauntlet, I palm one of the red rubies into my wine glass and set it on the table. Finn appreciated my flare for the dramatic, especially when I said it was the guilds share of my treasure.
I tell my tale of the bandits, the dead horses, the captured dwarf, the ogre battles and the dwarven mithral mine. At mention of the mithral mine, Finnegan shows a wide grin and strokes his goatee. 'Very... fortuitous, this Breagar character' he says.
I then tell of the entrance to the mine, the battle with more ogres and the entrance hall. I explained how Garret caught the lightning bolt on the trapped inner gates. I then tell about the undead skeletons and the eerie battle that night. Finn says that this matter will be taken to the guildmaster, but that it would probably require a partnering with a member of the church. They have heard tales of Klangensturm and its famous mithral mines. They know from the manifests that it was one of the richest of the dwarven clans and describe the halls in detail, but no information about the mines themselves. This reminds me of the map that we found in the entrance hall, as it looked to be a map of mining tunnels.
After the tale, Finn tells me to rest and regain my strength. He tells me to meet with Hilbor the next day and to report any developments within the church. I agree and Den guides me back to the Blue Stag across the rooftops. I arrive just in time to help Maalvi escort everyone back to temple and mage guild.
It looks like things are really starting to get interesting…
Date: Tuesday, Jan 29th 2002
Ian: Human Sorcerer named Ghendel
Ian: Ghendel's Raven familiar named Josephine
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger named Langly Reedhill
The next day was rather uneventful. I finished up my errands in the morning and then returned to the Mage College. That night we celebrated our return to Mycea with lots of food and lots of drink. Oh, the joys of city life. On every corner an inn or bar and each one better than the last. We finally decided to get everyone back home and settle in for the night. Cleitus, the apprentice who had been assigned to help Ghendel, got stinking drunk and we had to carry him back to the college. Of course he couldn’t tell us where his room was, so he ended up sleeping on my floor. Ghendel went up to Yolandales quarters to sleep in his nice big bed.
In the wee hours of the morning, I awoke and sensed that Ghendel was is danger. I rushed from my room and up the stairs. The doors to Yolandales room were closed and locked, but I could hear sounds of spell casting coming from the other side. I started to pound on the doors and yelled let me in! A moment later, Josephine opened the doors (how, I have no idea).
I rushed into the bedroom to find Ghendel being attacked by two shadows. He was blasting them with sheets of flame shooting from his hands. When I entered the room one of them moved to attack me and Ghendel dispersed the other in a burst of flame. As I had no weapons or armor, I ran when the shadow attacked me, but Ghendel was able to send it to a fiery death. However, the attacks had left him physically weakened and almost unable to stand.
I quickly went for help, shouting that Yolendale has been attacked. That quickly brought the guards and a few mages running. Once we had explained what had happened, Lecrutius (the Principle Master of the college) said he would have a guard posted at all times.
I volunteered to whip up some onion soup to help Ghendel while some healers were sent for. I must say that the Mage College kitchen was amazing. A magical fire that cooked everything faster than normal, an array of spices the likes of I’ve never seen before and magical trays that followed your spoken command. Once the soup had been eaten and the clerics had restored Ghendel’s drained strength, we tried to get back to sleep.
The next day, I had breakfast in the apprentice’s common room. I must say the food was excellent and plentiful. I think I will like being an apprentice here, but it does seem that they only have breakfast, lunch and dinner. I suppose I’ll just have to keep an extra bite or two around for those long classes. After breakfast, I went upstairs to meet Ghendel and go to the first stage of Yolandales restoration spell.
The spell was cast in the large auditorium, with all twelve masters present. It was a long and involved spell and seemed quite powerful. It was a success! Ghendel had regained some of his memory and power. He would no longer cast spells from his internal power, but as a regular wizard. He had also regained some of his memories. Not all of them, but a start.
After the spell, everyone else filed out and I went to see him. He appeared to be different, but still was Ghendel. I had been afraid that Ghendel would disappear, to be replaced by a stranger, but that was not the case. After Ghendel had explained what had happened and what he had experienced, we stood and talked with one of his old students, an Elf by the name of Elenthel Navasta. Elenthel had been one of Ghendels companions that fateful day so many years ago, when they had ridden south into the swamps. Their mission had been to destroy an evil Lich Lord named Aventhor and recover a powerful artifact: a crown. After battling through the swamps and into Aventhors tower, Yolendale and his party had battled the lich. When it seemed that the lich was winning, Josephine was able to pry loose one of the liches eyes (a great red ruby). With the loss of power, Yolendale was able to gain the upper hand. However, just as he was ready to strike the killing blow, the lich reached into his body with his evil power. The memory ended there.
It turns out that Yolendale and Josephine had both disappeared. Elenthel had assumed that he was destroyed and had gathered the liches remains and returned to Mycea. The remains were secured by strong magics in the archives.
During this tale, Elenthel returned one of the liches eyes to Ghendel. As I stood looking at it, I wondered where the other one was. Elenthel could not remember and after talking a bit more, we decided to enter the archives and see if it was with the remains. It turns out that it was not, that it was missing. This led to a fascinating tale of Lord Dedric Coromthar’s downfall and the crown.
Once we had returned from the archives (which are on a pocket plane created by Yolendale and the other wizards and filled with the most amazing collections I have every witnessed) we had a quick bite to eat and then returned to the great hall for my test. Yes, I was going to be tested for entrance into the Mage College. At last, I would be able to learn how Ghendel cast spells. And, after lots of study and preparation, I would be able to cast them myself! Of course, I had to pass this test first.
Whenever I had asked any of the other mages about their test, they had given me vague answers at best. Most of them just said that they would not talk of it. Even Ghendel could give me no guidance as to what it would be about. Of course, now that I have passed my test and I am an apprentice mage, I will continue the tradition and tell you nothing of my test.
I will have to buckle down and study, so my entries in this journal may be fewer and far between for a while. I want so badly to succeed as a mage. I’ve always been smarter than all my brothers, sisters and cousins whom I grew up with, but after talking with Ghendel about what is required to become a wizard, even I will be challenged. But I have never backed away from a difficult task and I look forward to all the new things I will learn.
Date: Monday, February 4th 2002
Ron: Elven Cleric name Lucian Galanadel
NPC: Elven Fighter named Maalvi Galanadel
Ian: Human Sorcerer named Ghendel/Yolendale
Ian: Ghendel's Raven familiar named Josephine
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger named Langly Reedhill
Well, it looks like there is going to be another journal entry before I get into my studies. Although, I have been able to spend a few hours in Ghendel’s library and I must say, it is the most amazing collection of books I have every encountered. I’m sure I’ll spend a lot of time in there. And it even comes complete with a floating magical candle that will fetch whatever books you need!
Anyway, that evening, we decided to meet with Lucian and Maalvi for dinner and to fill them in on Ghendel’s restoration of Yolendales memories and my acceptance into the Mage College. It turns out that they had also had some fun while we were busy and were tasked with finding out more about the mysterious bandits that had been randomly terrorizing the city. Lucian drafted a letter to the captain of the city guard, requesting a meeting for the next day. After dinner, Ghendel and I returned to the college to study and prepare.
An acolyte from the church informed us later that night that an audience with the guard captain was scheduled for 10:30 am the next morning. After another fine breakfast in the college common area, I went upstairs to fetch Ghendel. He seems to be adding on some weight and I swear he’s even taller than before. He has also started to comb his hair and beard and is quite a striking figure in his fine robes.
We arrived at the courthouse at the appointed hour and were directed into the captain’s office. Captain Vance Tarkula was looking over a map of the city when we entered. After introductions, Vance expressed his gratitude with any help he could get in solving the problem. It turns out that the number and frequency of the raids was increasing. Not only that, but instead of just the poorer sections of town, the raids were happening in the wealthy and business areas.
He gave us a list of three houses that had been raided the night before. There was a silversmith who had been robbed, a wealthy mansion that had been set on fire and a group of men who had been assaulted. We decided to visit the silversmiths first and see if the man would be able to provide us with more information. The silversmith had been robbed of several heavy silver platters and a few heavy silver pitchers.
Master Bernaid had not only been robbed, but the bandits had shot him with an arrow before the left. After finding the house and explaining to the guardsmen outside that we were on official business, we were able to get in and see Bernaid. Lucian was able to call upon the power of the goddess and heal the man of his wound. After that, master Bernaid was more than willing to help us in any way possible.
He told us the story of the robbery, but he was not able to provide any more information than we had gathered from the guard captain. However, the arrow that had been shot into master Bernaid did. Once Maalvi examined the arrow, he guessed that it was manufactured by a Drow! Remembering our conversations in the dwarven mines about the drow, their relation to the elves and their weapons and armor, I knew how we could find out for certain. We simple walked outside into the bright sunlight with the arrow. As suspected, it melted into a deformed, twisted shape under the light of the sun. Drow! Inside the city walls!
Well, after that shocking discovery, we had to find how they were getting in and out. It would be almost impossible for them to have passed through the city gates. So the only alternative left was either magic or some underground passageways. After examining the doorway of the silversmith’s house for signs of forced entry, I realized that there must be another way in and out of this house. I asked if master Bernaid had a cellar and he took us down to his basement storage room.
After searching diligently, I was able to find two very interesting things. The first was a very well covered set of footprints in the dust. The second was a concealed door along the back wall. I quickly figured out a way to open the door and revealed a tunnel leading into darkness. Aha! Now we knew how the drow were getting in and out of the city undetected. The question still remained: Why?
Lucian and I returned to the church to get into our armor while Maalvi and Ghendel kept watch at the silversmiths house. When we returned master Bernaid lent us an amazing lantern he had created. It was like a bulls-eye, but had an iris that allowed you to precisely control the amount of light and also had a concave and a convex lens that could focus or diffuse the light beam. As fine piece of craftsmanship as I’ve ever seen, I now know where to come if I ever need to commission jewelry or silver items.
We descended into the tunnel of rough worked stone. A good distance in, we came across an intersection. It looked like these tunnels led to other areas of the city. We continued down the central passage deeper and further. Finely, we came to a large cavern where three tunnels intersected. There was a pool of brackish water and an assortment of stalactites and stalagmites. After looking around for a moment, Ghendel noticed boot prints on the floor. They looked fairly new. The next moment, we found out just how new…
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a ball of darkness rush down one of the corridors towards me. At the center was an arrow, which thunked into my armor and pierced my chest. A small wound compared to the total darkness that engulfed me. Not even unshuttering the lamp could pierce the pitch blackness. At almost the same moment, the same thing happened to Ghendel, only he took an arrow to the back.
Following the direction the arrow had come from, I quietly moved down the corridor, listening for the drow I knew to be ahead of me. Instead I heard the twang of a bowstring and the whistle of another arrow. I quickly dodged aside and then threw two daggers at the source of the sound. Meanwhile, other drow had moved into the cavern and were attacking Ghendel and Maalvi. Lucian had avoided the darkness tipped arrows and charged into the third tunnel to attack the drow he saw there.
Hearing their talk, I realized that the arrow embedded in my chest was the source of the darkness surrounding me. I pulled it free and threw it into the tunnel behind me. The unnatural darkness went with it and I could see two drow in front of me. Dark skinned, with violet eyes and almost shocking white hair, they looked almost exactly as I had pictured them from the tales Maalvi had told.
They moved quickly to attack, but the narrow tunnel only allowed one at a time. After taking a few wounds, I was able to badly wound the first, who then fled down the corridor. The next was not so lucky…
However, the fight in the patch black cavern was not going as well. Ghendel was being repeatedly attacked by a drow he could not see. He was able to burn it with a burst of flame, but the drow retaliated and struck Ghendel down. Maalvi moved in to help, but Ghendel was dieing. Luckily, Lucian was able to dispatch the drow he had attacked and hearing Josephine’s cries for help, he returned to the cavern and searched through the darkness for Ghendel’s body. Maalvi was finally able to kill the remaining drow and Lucian healed Ghendel.
I did not want the drow who had run from me to warn his fellows, so I took off down the corridor after him. After Lucian had healed Ghendel and Maalvi, they came looking for me. Ghendel was able to use his staff to dispel the remaining darkness and they found the dead drow I had left. The followed down the corridor after me.
I left a few chalk marks to point my path at each tunnel intersection, but I was not able to catch up to the fleeing drow. The tunnel finally came to an end in another door like the one we had entered by. I waited there for the rest of the party to catch up. Once we were all assembled, I opened the door to find a storage room. There was a set of wooden stairs leading up to a trap door in the ceiling.
We decided that some proof of the drow presence might come in handy later, so Lucian stuffed the dead drow into his bag of holding. The anticipation of pulling a dead drow out of the bag in front of the captain of the guard seemed to lighten even the staid Lucian’s mood. We returned to the secret door and ascended the stairway. It turns out it lead to an Inn in the lower east side of town. After surprising the innkeeper, we were on our way back to report to the church.
Needless to say, Mave Corandorn was shocked and horrified at the news that drow were within the city walls. She promised to round up two dozen clerics to help flush out the tunnels and sent us off to report to the city guard captain. We reported what we had found to Captain Tarkula and showed him the dead drow as proof. He promised forty guardsmen would meet us at the church within the hour assist. Ghendel returned to the Mage College to round up some battle mages and we all met back at the church.
The rest of the night was rather uneventful. No more drow were encountered. We did find a stable of sorts at the end of a very long tunnel, the only tunnel that led outside the city walls. The mages collapsed the tunnel, sealing it with tons of rock. The only other thing of interest was several sacks of metal items; all where heavy iron, silver, steel and gold objects.
Why the drow where raiding the city and where they came from are still a mystery…
Date: A month later
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly Reedhill
Jayme: Langly’s owl familiar named Mouzer
Of all the places I have been and all the things I’ve seen, the Mage College of Mycea is by far the most interesting. I’ve been here just over a month and I can already see why many of the students continue on after their apprenticeship is done. I’ve started to settle into a routine of sorts: an early breakfast, an hour of exploring, a second breakfast with the rest of the apprentices, classes, lunch, more classes, afternoon tea, a trip into the city for more classes, back for dinner, an hour or two of studying and then more exploring before bed. After a few trips around the ground floor and then a careful pacing outside, I’ve determined that the inside of the college is at least twice as large as the outside. But that is just one of the many wonders I’ve seen so far.
Speaking of wonders, after Yolendale was lost, someone at the school must have missed him very much. There are rumored to be 42 statues of him throughout the college. So far I’ve only been able to find 31 of them. And I must say some of them are in the most unlikely of places. There is one in the kitchen, several watching over the city from the central tower, one in the wine cellar and even one under the grand staircase. But my task of searching out new statues has taken me too many places in the college I might never have been otherwise.
I found a nest of owls in the mouth of a gargoyle on the roof. There were two small hatchlings there and I’ve been bringing them snacks of meat every other day. The college is the tallest building in the city and the view from the roof is amazing. The end of last ten-day was set aside for those apprentices who wanted to bond a familiar. I spent the entire afternoon with one of the owls on the rooftop. After completing the ceremony, Mouzer and I can now communicate telepathically. In fact, that’s how I know his name is Mouzer (although I think he stole the word from my mind when we first bonded). I must say, he is seems very smart for an owl. As with many of the other apprentices, Mouzer now accompanies me to class each day. He is still quite small and can nestle in the crook of my arm, covered by my robes. In fact he pretty much goes with me all over the city. When we are out and about he usually flies overhead, as he says the view is so much nicer from up there. It seems we can keep in constant communication even if we are on opposite sides of the city. I somehow get the feeling that Josephine doesn’t approve of Mouzer. I’m not sure if it’s because she is a raven and he an owl or if it’s something else.
I’ve been back into the tunnels twice now to continue my mapping. I’ve pretty much mapped all the worked stone tunnels and where they go. There are only two places that I haven’t explored yet. One is a cave of rough, natural stone and the other is a door of worked stone that is quite obviously different than the rest of the construction. I’ve avoided both as they are the only unusual parts of the underground labyrinth. I’d like to have a companion or two with me before I explore further.
My meet and greet with the city guard has also been going well. The night of the Drow incident allowed me to personally meet four of the city guard sergeants and find out what part of the city they are in charge of. So each night, I’ve found one of them and bought them a drink, all under the guise of talking to them about that night. It’s worked out well, as I’ve also met all but two of the other sergeants of the watch. Now I know the captain of the guard, all four lieutenants and all but two of the sergeants both by sight and by name. And I’ve also met and bought drinks for at least twenty of the city guard. Only a drop in the bucket compared to the hundreds who patrol the city, but still, it may come in handy someday.
Because of my studies, training with Hilbor, mapping excursions and drinking with the city guard, I haven’t seen Lucian or Maalvi since we returned from the mines. I imagine they are busy with their own affairs. Yolendale and I see each other most nights, as I like to do my studying in his library. It’s by far the most impressive collection of books in the entire school. While the college library has more volumes, Yolendale’s has a greater depth and contains books far too rare to leave in such a public place.
I also think that Philo approves of my studies. While it never communicates with me directly, I sometimes get a warm glow over my chest when I’ve mastered a particularly complex equation and it definitely glowed when I cast my first spell. Speaking of spells, they are far less difficult to learn than I had thought. From the way great-cousin Stella talked back home, I thought I’d have to fry my brain in butter and eat it for dinner each night while I tried to learn them. While some of the ones I’ve seen in each subject masters spell books are far beyond my power to cast, I can still understand how and why they work.
I think my teachers also sense this, as I’ve already been put into some of the advanced classes with the second year apprentices. One of my favorite teachers is master Tanirân, the head of the school of transmutation. In fact, I’ve so enjoyed his lessons that I think I will specialize in transmutation spells. Changing one thing into another seems like an excellent use for magic. Kind of like cooking…
Speaking of cooking, I’ve become quite good friends with Piere, the head chef at the school. Almost since day one, we have been swapping recipes and I’m always welcome in the kitchen (even though no other apprentices are even allowed inside). And I think my cooking skills have helped me in my alchemy class. The measuring and mixing of ingredients for a potion is exactly the same as for a special dish or recipe. In fact, back home, great-cousin Stella often prepared wayfarers bread instead of healing potions, as they tasted much better and had the same effect. While master Avalazar (the head teacher of the Alchemy school) really liked my idea for a potion of Natural Armor, he just laughed when I told him potion making was like cooking. He said next thing I’d suggest was that casting spells was like flying. I still have no idea what he meant by that.
Staying with all the apprentices in the dormitory sometimes makes me yearn for home. It’s kind of like an extended family. I wonder how everyone back home is doing and if they miss me. It will be a grand day when I return and tell them the tales of my travels. If the rest of my adventures are half as interesting as the ones I’ve had so far, it will be by far the best tale yet.
Date: Oct 24th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter named Garret
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
It’s been a long while since I’ve written anything and many things have changed since then. But let me start at the beginning….
As part of the mapping of the drow tunnels under Mycea I was tasked with finding and destroying any remaining drow I might encounter. To help in this endeavor, I was joined by my friend Phelps, Allian (an Elven Ranger who was a specialist at hunting drow) and a sergeant at arms named Victor. After a few days of exploration, we encountered our first drow patrol. They had been guarding a waypoint for breaking down the gold, silver and iron taken from the surface. We were able to kill a few of them and drove the rest deeper into the tunnels. We followed them down a tunnel and into a huge underground cavern. The cavern was criss-crossed with thick strands of spider webbing. We soon found out why and fought a vicious battle with half a dozen giant spiders. Deciding that the best way to clear the cavern would be to burn it, we dropped a couple casks of oil down the hole. A torch soon followed and we cleared out to let it burn. After reporting the skirmish to Captain of the guard Vance Tarakula we were tasked with a new mission: Discover the extent of the Drow infestation.
To accomplish this task, we knew we would have to go deep underground. We planned on traveling for at least a week in and a week out again. But before setting out, we decided to learn as much as possible about the drow. We visited the Elven quarter of Mycea to meet with a famous drow hunter name Vingray. He told us much about the drow and their evil ways. He also talked of how best to fight them and their special powers.
We realized we would need a powerful weapon to defeat the drow in their home territory and so we paid a visit to the High Priestess of Mycea, Mave Corandorn. After much thought and consultation, it was decided that Phelps would bear the holy sigil of Saint Sylvers. This round medallion was made from dark ebony with bits of gold and bronze inlaid in the shape of a six spoke wheel (the symbol of Ahnyweh). Mave told us the sigil had been used by Saint Sylvers long ago to fight off the drow and their evil servants. Phelps was honored to carry such an important holy relic and vowed to guard it with his life.
The next day, we set out on our journey underground. We descended to the point where we had fought the drow patrol a few days prior. The barrels of oil we had dropped into the spiders nest had burned out, taking the spiders and their webs with them. After exploring the cavern, we set out into one of the tunnels. After exploring for a few hours, we came upon some evidence of recent passage. Assuming it was the drow; we followed and soon encountered them. They had setup an ambush assisted by several of their giant spider minions. We were able to kill off the spiders and a few drow, but two of them fled. Setting off in hot pursuit, I chased them down a tunnel, but reached a dead end without any sign of them. They had disappeared into thin air.
We continued exploring, but soon ran into another drow ambush. They were better prepared this time and after collapsing part of the tunnel behind us, they attacked with poisoned bolts. The poison was strong and quickly felled Allian. Before Phelps or I could help our fallen companions, we too succumbed to the poison and fell unconscious.
I awoke to the smell of burning flesh and the low moans of the tormented. I was chained to a post in a dark, foul smelling room, lit only by the flames of a brazier. Flames used to heat a poker red hot. It was this poker applied to the flesh of my leg that had both awoken me and caused the smell of burning flesh. Chained to other posts were my companions, Phelps and Allian. Victor was nowhere to be seen and I can only assume he was killed in the tunnel collapse or by the drow afterwards. After a round of questioning and torture by a drow priestess, I was thrown into a cell, where I passed out.
I awoke a while later to the sound of water being poured into a bowl. I was naked, lying on the cold stone floor of a jail cell. There was a pair of drow outside the cell, pouring water into a bowl. I managed to choke down the foul food and tainted water they gave me. A while later four drow appeared, dragged me out of my cell and back into the torture chamber where once again the drow priestess questioned me.
That became my daily routine for at least a couple of weeks. I’m not sure exactly how long it went on as I had no way of telling time in the dark. I did not see either Phelps or Allian during this time. I tried to find a way out of the cells, but the locks were complex and well made. In fact the workmanship of the cells was amazing. I know good work when I see it and this was some of the finest.
Then the routine was broken. One by one, five unconscious bodies were dragged into the cell block: a dwarf, two gnomes and two elves. They were all stripped naked like myself, but did not look like they had been tortured. That soon changed, as they came back and dragged the two elves out. When they returned, they chained one elf to the ceiling and dropped the other elf on the floor directly below him. They then split the hanging elf open and spilled his guts and blood all over the other elf on the floor. They laughed as they defiled his body, removing the eyes and heart.
After they left, the elf of the floor started to awaken. He slowly turned over and gazed at the horror above him. Once he saw who it was, he retched and doubled over in agony. I left him to his grief for a while. Once he had calmed, he noticed me sitting in my cell, across the walkway. We spoke and he told me his name: Fyn. We exchanged the story of how each of us had arrived here and as we talked his companions started to awake.
To my amazement, the dwarf in the cell next to mine was none other than Garret. Last I had seen of Garret, he and Bragger had set off on some secret dwarven mission, so I was amazed to see him here. Of course he was equally amazed to see me too.
After talking a bit, I explained that the drow priestess was after some sort of key. She had not asked me directly, but had hinted at it. I had also overheard her talking with one of the other drow. The drow seemed to think that these prisoners had the key.
Soon the drow came to bring the daily food and water. Strangely enough they did not take me (or anyone else) out for the daily torture session that day or the next. In fact, they left us alone for a few days. But on day three, they came for Garret. But with them was Bragger! After they dragged Garret out, Bragger followed them. He was not chained like the rest of us. He had obviously worked some sort of deal with the drow.
We listened to the screams of torture, but they ended very quickly and soon Garret returned. He told us they had tortured him and asked about a key. They had then killed Bragger. Ha, serves him right for trusting a drow!
The next day, the drow came again. But this time they took all of us out at once. Shackled and chained together, we were lead into the torture chamber once again. As we entered, I could see Cromwell Durenheart chained inside some sort of pentagram drown on the floor. The drow priestesses were there as well as four drow guards.
The priestess laid out seven carved stones on a table covered in dark velvet. She then asked us if we would assist in finding which one was “the key”. She used the usual drow tactics, quick death if you help us, slow torture if you don’t. Those drow are so predictable sometimes. Roobino was the first asked to identify the correct stone. She just waved at the table and said something about it being “that one”. It was obvious she either knew nothing or was not going to help. I was next in line and I asked if I could handle the stones.
I was unchained and unshackled and lead to the table. I closely examined each stone and the intricate carvings inside. They were scribed with the names of dwarven clans. When I picked up the third stone, I could instantly tell it was the “right” one. Thinking to mislead the drow, I asked if they key was a single stone or a pair of stones. They told me it was a single stone, but I insisted it was a pair of stones. When asked which ones, I said it was the third stone and the fifth stone.
The drow priestess laughed and picked up the third stone. She then thanked me for helping them find the key. At that point, Garret told me in dwarven to smash the stone. Thinking it might do something interesting, I picked up a stone and smashed it onto the floor.
Of course, all it did was shatter and cause the drow priestess to laugh. Her laughter must have awoken something in Cromwell, because at that moment he spoke. You don’t know what you are dealing with he told her. She spun around and shouted at him that he was a fool and that their Goddess would feast on his soul. Not the drow goddess Lolth the spider queen, but Kiaransalee, the drow goddess of undeath and vengeance.
At that, Cromwell spoke of his god Crom and the power he granted his chosen. He then burst his chains and giving a mighty shout, clapped his hands together. The result was amazing! A huge clap of thunder and a burst of light knocked over all the drow (and most of us). In addition, the chains and manacles burst apart, setting us free!
We quickly seized the opportunity and the fallen drow’s weapons. Before we could do more than move a few steps, the drow priestess released a spell from her mace. Massive black, writhing tentacles sprang up from the floor, grabbing anything within reach. As luck would have it, I was just out of each and managed to avoid being grabbed by several of them. At that moment, I felt Philo call to me. It was nearby!
With the black tentacles grabbing and crushing everything in sight, I figured it was as good a time as any to collect Philo. I knew the rest of my equipment would be close by. After quickly dispatching the drow whose dagger I had taken, I ran into the next room. Sure enough there was Philo and the rest of my equipment. As I picked up Philo and put it around my neck, I felt a warm, welcoming glow. I grabbed my short bow and bandoleer of daggers and ran back into the torture chamber.
I arrived just in time to see Cromwell engaged in a fierce fight with both drow priestesses. Taking advantage of the situation, I fired a round of arrows into the head priestesses back. That would teach her to torture a helpless Halfling! As the priestess turned to deal with my attack, I put two more arrows into her. She went down like a sapling felled by the woodman’s axe and I tasted sweet revenge.
With their leader down, the other drow ran for safety. The remaining priestess seemed to fade and walked off, right through a solid stone wall. However, her black tentacles had done their damage. Garret had the life squeezed right from him and Fyn was much the worse for wear. We managed to destroy the tentacle wrapped around him just in time.
Date: Nov 21st
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter named Garret
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
As the battle ended, Cromwell fell heavily to one knee. He took the haft of his axe and pounded it against the floor. A wave of force rushed from it, dispelling the remaining black tentacles. Cromwell knelt next to the battered corpse of Garret. He leaned on his axe and extended his hand over Garret. He started to pray to Crom, god of the Forge and spoke in ancient dwarven. Golden energy started to flow outward from his hand, at first filling Garret’s body with a golden light, and then flowing outward, over the floor of the room. Cromwell spoke in common “I am battered beyond repair. I will return to my god, but before I go, I will give my remaining life to Garret, so that he may live on and continue the great gods work”. With that a brilliant golden glow surrounded Cromwells form. When the light dimmed, Cromwell had been turned to solid metal. Garret’s lifeless body was once again filled with breath and he sat up, at first trying to take Cromwells outstretched hand. There was something different about Garret. You could see it in his eyes and the expression on his face. It’s as if part of Cromwell had passed into Garret, the two merging is some small way.
Cromwell’s last prayer to his god had also created a safe place in this forsaken drow underdark, a place where we could take a few moments to rest and recuperate before setting out to find our way home. Roobinoo took the time to memorize her spells and Garret prayed to Crom.
Fyn and Nimbrant explored the chamber and I took care of some business that had been too long in coming. First, I cut the heart from the dead drow priestess. I reveled in the feel of her dark blood flowing over my fingers. I burned her heart in the fiery brazier, watching the flames feed hungrily. The same brazier she had heated metal pokers red hot before applying them to my skin. I will always bare the scars, but in the end it was I who killed her.
After that, I gathered up the rest of my gear and a few other items I thought might come in useful. The one item I took from the dead body was a strange, spider silk glove which shrunk to fit my hand when I put it on. Garret took a dark metallic ring and Nimbrant a matching necklace.
After healing both Fyn and Garret with my wand, we decided it was time to get moving, before the drow returned or had time to prepare. It turns out we were already too late….
As Garret and Fyn opened the doors leading from the torture chamber, they were greeted with a grizzly sight. The dead bodies of Bregger and Fyn’s Elven cousin barred the way. They had been stripped of all their skin, with just muscles and bones left, oozing acidic red blood. Behind them half a score of Bugbears growled and paced.
A vicious battle ensued, with the undead using their bloody acid to inflict horrid wounds upon both Garret and myself. In addition their dead bodies seemed to heal quickly. Grievous wounds healed over before our very eyes. Roobinoo cast a sticky web which trapped several of the bugbears, allowing us to pick them off one by one. All in all, it was a hard won fight. I hope we encounter less resistance on our way out or we will never again see the light of day…
Date: Dec 5th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Garret
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Well, it looks like it’s going to be a long, hard road back to the surface. As soon as we had finished off those skinless, acidic undead and the gnolls, we left the area we had called home for the last few weeks. If you can call iron bared cells and a torture chamber home, that is. The passageway outside the chamber had a matched set of iron portcullises behind which sat a statue in a rune inscribed circle. Both statues were of an elf torso mounted on the body of a giant spider. I burned through the webs left over from Roobinoo’s spell and approached the one to my right. As I neared the portcullis, I stepped on a pressure plate. The portcullis dropped into the floor and the drider statue came to life!
The drider lashed out at me with it’s claws and fangs, but I was able to dodge out of the way. I drew my weapons and attacked. Garret quickly ran to assist and dealt it a mighty blow with his axe. In return it called down a circle of darkness, cloaking us in its sightless embrace. However, it was trapped in the small space at the end of the hallway and Garret and I were able to quickly finish it off. Once destroyed, we found several items of interest on its body. The first was a dark cloak, which shrunk to fit my small form when I put it on. The second was a strange amulet which Fyn identified as a drow house insignia. The third was a set of bracers, which shrunk to fit Nembarant when he put them on.
As we explored that end of the hallway, Fyn heard a noise on the other side of a doorway in the north wall. It sounded like something chewing and gnawing on bones. We decided we had to get of out here one way or the other and didn’t want to risk setting off the other drider statue, so we drew our weapons and opened the door.
On the other side were six ghoulish, undead creatures. They quickly moved to attack. Garret was the first to fall to their paralyzing touch, his body as still as stone as the battle raged around him. We were able to dispatch three of them before I too became paralyzed. Luckily Roobinoo was able summon two small fire elementals and with Fyn and his bow they were able to finish off the rest of them. It was a close call for all of us and just proves how difficult it’s going to be to get out of here alive.
We explored the room the ghouls had been in. It seemed to be some type of laboratory for creating more of the undead nightmares. In one corner I discovered a push plate which opened a secret door into a rough hewn stone passage. Deciding the best course of action would be to get as far away as quickly as possible, we set out.
After traveling for about ¼ mile, we came to a branch in the tunnel. I was able to discern that only a few sets of tracks that were at least 5 days old went down the left tunnel and that the right tunnel had much more traffic. We decided to take the left one and look for a place to hide and rest for the night. After traveling about another ¼ mile, we came to a small cavern with a shallow stream running through it. Fyn scouted further down the tunnel while I went back and covered our tracks.
Once Fyn returned, we decided this would be a safe place to camp for the night. After we ate a quick supper of rations and drank our fill, we settled in for the night. I took first watch, as I figured it would give me some time to study my lessons and go over my spellbook again.
Date: Dec 10th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Garret
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
That night, after my watch was over and I had finally fallen asleep, I was tormented with unpleasant dreams. At some point I awoke, sensing danger. I wasn’t sure if it was Philo who warned me or I heard something in my sleep, but I could feel something closing in. I quickly spoke to Fyn, telling him I heard something coming down the same passage we had already traversed. He wrapped his cloak tight around him and scouted down the tunnel while I woke the others.
He returned quickly, saying he had heard footsteps. Somewhere between three and fix sets of them. Everyone quickly found a place to hide and I covered them with their cloaks and tried to camouflage them. Garret and I hid next to the entrance and waited for them to arrive. I could hear their footsteps echoing softly down the tunnel. Suddenly the sound stopped.
A moment later, I could hear Nembarant chant the words of a spell and, three softly glowing balls of fairy fire appeared at the entrance to the tunnel and started to float down it. In the next instant, three crossbow bolts target the sound of his voice and the three drow who had fired them appeared. A shroud of magical darkness engulfed the area where Roo and Nem where hiding.
I was outside the range of the darkness and sprung up from my hiding place to attack the foul drow. Garret removed the cap from his rod of continual flame, dispelling the darkness with it’s holy power. With that signal, Fyn also joined in the fight. However, a moment later we were surprised by the appearance of three more drow and the spider masked drow from the stronghold. She was once again wielding her black tentacle mace. I was able to dispatch one of the drow and moved to flank the spider mask drow. Garret and I were punishing her with blow after blow when I noticed that all my companions except Garret had disappeared. That’s when I noticed a strange looking Gnome peering at me from some sort of extra-dimensional doorway in the rock wall. As I continued to attack the spider mask drow, Garret took one last swing and disappeared into the wall. As the rest of the drow moved it and attacked me, all I remember is feeling hands grab me as I fell to the floor, unconscious.
I awoke in a large cave, with everyone standing around in a somewhat shocked manner. There were more of the unusual Gnomes, men, women and some children. Garret was standing over me, uttering a prayer to his god. Of course, it was a prayer of thanks that I had brought that wand of healing with me…
One of the gnomes stepped forward and spoke in common. He told us his name and who they were. After we thanked him for our rescue, Nem asked him some more questions. It turns out that the stronghold where the Drow had kept us prisoner was the home of the deep gnomes. The drow had invaded about six weeks before and taken over, killing most of the svirfneblin in the process. This group had escaped and been hiding out in the area since then. They had heard Nem’s playing and come to investigate.
We continued to talk over the next few days as we rested and recuperated. The svirfneblin helped us identify some of our magical items and shared their food and water. Nem entertained us with music and song. I was able to finish a few more of my lessons and scribed the scrolls I had been given into my spellbook.
I think we should help the svirfneblin to recover their stronghold from the drow…
Date: Jan 16th, Jan 30th, Feb 3rd and Feb 26th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Garret
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Jim: Svirfneblin Druid named Beatle
Adrienne: Svirfneblin Ranger named Badger
The svirfneblin leader, Faulkner told us more about the drow invasion of their stronghold and how they escaped and have been hiding since. We learned that their King, a svirfneblin by the name of Mordnab, was thought to still be alive and held captive within the stronghold. After much discussion it was decided that we would proceed with the dual scouting and rescue mission. The svirfneblin provided us with darkvision and invisibility spells that would (hopefully) allow us to sneak into the stronghold, find and rescue their King. To help us with this endeavor, three svirfneblin joined our group: Zuk (a small rogue), Beatle (a stone druid) and Badger (a stout little svirfneblin with a pair of wicked daggers).
The svirfneblin showed us to a tunnel that leads to one of the back entrances to the stronghold. We followed the tunnel to a door, behind which was a storeroom. In the next room were a half dozen orcs, but our invisibility and the fact that orcs are lazy and stupid, allowed us to sneak past them, into the stronghold proper.
However, we soon encountered the first obstacle in our path. The passage way we needed to take was filled from floor to ceiling with thick, ropey strands of spider web. As we tried to crawl and worm our way through, we encountered the creature which had created them. The foul hand of Kiaransalee was evident in it’s creation as it was a huge undead spider!
We were able to dispatch it quickly, but not before the noise drew both the attention of the orcs from the guard room and a drow patrol. Beatle cast a spell which would keep the orcs at bay and Nembarant staid to keep watch and make sure they did not attack us from the rear. The rest of us engaged in a pitched battle against the drow patrol.
As we engaged the first drow, several others become visible; as their invisibility spells ended when they attacked us. They quickly used their darkness abilities to try and put us at a disadvantage, but Garret’s light stick was able to outshine their foul magic. During the combat, Fyn continued to explore further down another hallway, where he encountered two additional drow. Badger and he were able to kill one of them, but the other fled, doubtless to set off the alarm.
We had killed all but the last drow from the original patrol when he suddenly ran, using the cover of the remaining darkness spell to escape. However, he fled in a direction we had not planned on going anyway, so we did not pursue him. Instead, we headed down to where Fyn and Badger had encountered the two other drow. I quickly disabled the lock on the stone door while the rest of the group proceeded into the hallway that the first drow had escaped into. Since Fyn was still invisible, I cast comprehend languages and had him drink one of my potions of detect thoughts. The idea was that he would act as the invisible scout, detecting the drow and reading their thoughts.
Like most well laid plans, this one did not work as desired, as Fyn (once again) decided to go down a different hallway than the rest of the party. If he wasn’t an Elf, I’d almost say my impulsive nature was rubbing off on him. Zuk had disappeared into one of the mages studies to retrieve their spell books and I quickly joined him, offering the use of my bag of holding to carry the heavy load.
While we were doing that, Beatle and Badger started to explore down the center of three hallways that lead to our destination and encountered the first signs that the fleeing drow had raised the alarm. A patrol of four drow was coming down the hallway, straight towards them. A moment later, Fyn encountered four more drow that were coming down the first hallway. Beatle and Badger were set upon with the (now standard) drow darkness, while Fyn returned to report the other drow patrol. Garret poked his head into the third hallway only to discover a drow and a crossbow bolt. Unluckily for Garret, the crossbow bolt was coated with the foul poison that had originally taken us all prisoner and passed out on the floor. Luckily for Garret, I still had four doses of the anti-poison from the drow hunter Vingrey. Both he and Phelps will be avenged!
Forcing the draught down Garrets throat seemed to work, as he quickly revived. I relieved him of the drow crossbow he had acquired and tried to return the favor to the drow. The bolt hit home, but the poison was not so effective. As Garret advanced into the hallway to engage the drow, three more popped into existence, firing crossbow bolts. This time he was able to resist the foul poison. But after firing at him, they quickly ducked into the doorways that lined the hall.
Realizing we were about to be attacked on three fronts, Beatle threw up a wall of stone to block off the eight drow who were attempting to attack us from the rear. However, it was not quick enough to prevent Roobinoo from taking a dose of the same foul poison that had felled Garret. I used one more of anti-poison doses to revive her (and it was a darn good thing too!).
The group advanced down the hallway, intending to engage the drow quickly before reinforcements could arrive. However, as Roobinoo ducked into the first room, she saw that it contained two svirfneblin prisoners, shacked and chained to the wall. As she shouted out this information, Zuk ducked into the second room to find more of the same. The rest of us continued to advance down the hallway, with Garret the first to encounter the drow who had surprised him with the crossbow bolt. Garret dispatched the drow with the help Beatle, but not without taking grievous wounds. As I advanced down the hallway, one of the hiding drow popped out and hit me with a poisoned crossbow bolt. As I crimpled to the floor, I remember thinking “I hope they use the right vial”. Luckily for me, Garret was able to recognize which was the anti-poison from when I used it on him. However, that did not stop him from also drinking one of my healing potions. Seems like I’m rubbing off on everyone these days!
While I was out, the rest of the group finished off the remaining three drow. A moment later, the other eight drow we had cutoff with the wall of stone arrived. Of course, it was just in time to see Roobinoos fire show. A small “pop” and a huge “whoosh” of flame was the last thing they were prepared for. After that, it was a fierce but quick battle to dispatch the remaining drow.
Just as the last drow fell, one of the svirfneblin prisoners whom we had freed told us that the King was being held in a room with double doors at the end of the hallway. That is where we found him and it was just in time. He was chained to a torture device, his guts hanging out and blood running everywhere. Garret and I tried our best to put him back together and I healed him with a quick zap of my wand. We freed him and set off down the hallway, heading for the mines and freedom…
Date: Mar 11th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Garret
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Jim: Svirfneblin Druid named Beatle
Adrienne: Svirfneblin Ranger named Badger
As we helped the wounded svirfneblin king out of the torture chamber, it was obvious that he would not be able to walk to the mines. Thinking quickly, I helped the king and one of the other svirfneblin into my bag of holding. They would have enough air for about 15 minutes after I closed it up, but I figured that would be plenty of time for us to escape.
At the same time, I had the other svirfneblin strip down the bodies of the dead drow. I knew we would need every weapon and magic item possible if we were ever to drive the drow from this stronghold. Zuk, Garret, Nembarant and I then set about freeing the remaining svirfneblin prisoners. We now had nine additional svirfneblin to keep safe during our escape. Not the type of baggage I would have liked, but there was no way we were going to leave them here, to certain death.
We then formed up and started our advance to the mines. Beatle and Badger took rear guard, preparing to cast another stone entangle with the hope of slowing down pursuit. No sooner had we reached the entrance to the mines than we heard a loud booming coming from where we had just left. The pursuit had arrived sooner than expected. Badger cast her spell into the hallway, while the rest of us advanced down the stairs leading to the mines.
I took the short route and entered a dark tunnel at the bottom of the staircase. I camouflaged into the wall with my cloak and peered out into the mines. While not as grand as the structures at Klängdenstürm, it was still a site to behold. The entire cavern was lit with a red glow from the forges along one wall. The sound of hammer hitting anvil echoed loudly, almost drowning out the crack of the whip and the cries of the poor svirfneblin forced to haul coal to fuel the hungry flames. A dozen beardless dwarves worked at the forges and anvils, while at least twice that many drow oversaw the svirfneblin slaves and orcs.
As I stood there, I could hear my companions approaching down the stairs and farther away the low booming of heavy footfalls. Several very heavy creatures were not far behind. But then I noticed something that was far more urgent. A magical portal, lined with blue energy, appeared out in the mines and a pair of drow stepped through. The first I recognized right off, as I had seen her spider fanged mask and tentacle flail many times before. The second drow I could not place until she raised a withered, dead hand and pointed directly at me and wailed “I will have my revenge!” It was the priestess I had killed. The one who had tortured me, who had kept me locked in a cage for weeks, only taking me out for her cruel punishments and amusement. The one I had killed!
Before they had a chance to start towards me, my companions arrived at the base of the staircase. Roobinoo cast obscuring mist, to hide our group from prying eyes. It was just in time, as I had once last trick up my sleeve, or rather, in my glove. It was the holy symbol of Saint Sylvers, the cleric of Ahnyweh who had dedicated his life to fighting the dark drow. I called it forth from my glove and holding it high above my head, called forth the goodness of Ahnyweh, asking her to shine her light on the dark ones. A blinding burst of sunlight lit the cavern, stunning all the drow within. Seizing the opportunity, I dashed back to my companions, extorting them to hurry.
To make good our escape, the svirfneblin had given us a wand of dimension door. However, Roobinoo would only be able to take seven or eight people out of the mines with each casting. From the sounds coming down the stairway and knowing what was approaching from the mines, I knew we did not have time for that. So Roobinoo took eight of the svirfneblin out on her first trip, while the rest of our band started to climb into the bag of holding. When they joined the king and svirfneblin companion, I knew there would only be a few minutes of air, but it would be more than enough. To hide our escape, Nembarant played the song he had learned off his lute. It both soothed us and made the entire party invisible. I’ll have to remember that, as it could come in very handy in the future. Roobinoo returned a moment later and was able to transport the rest of us back to the tunnel we had original entered the stronghold by.
From there, we were able to safely return to the cavern the other svirfneblin were holed up in. When we arrived, there was cause for celebration and rejoicing. And cause for sadness. It seems that the wounds the old king had taken were beyond our abilities to heal, even with the magical cures we had given him. We would be able to keep him alive, but stronger healing spells would be required to cure him.
After settling in, he told us more about what had transpired and why the drow were there. It turns out that they are constructing some sort of giant metal construct, a golem of immense size and power. In addition they are using some sort of machine to extract the life essence of svirfneblin to create the foul poison which had felled us and so many of their brethren. With the additions from the rest of the rescued svirfneblin, we were able to piece together the numbers of the drow forces:
- Spider mask drow and the undead Priestess whom I had killed
- 3 drow Mages, each with a guardian construct
- 2 drow Priestesses
- 30+ drow
- 30+ dark dwarves
- 30+ orcs
While this does seem a force far larger than we could ever hope to defeat, there is a seed of hope. The svirfneblin stronghold is of old Dwarven construction and contained a vault. Stored in this vault are the magic items that the svirfneblin have accumulated over the years. The king is certain there are items of great power contained with in. Maybe powerful enough to help us defeat the drow and drive them from the stronghold.
It seems that the drow also desire these items, as they took the key (a crystal) from the king and tried to enter the vault. However, they did not know that the crystal had to be placed into a certain pedestal or the traps and wards would activate, trapping those in the vault. It looks like we are going to go back in again….
But first, we took a day to rest and a day to prepare. I have identified the items we took from the dead drow and memorized a full complement of spells. Zuk and I have been practicing our trap detection and disarming, exchanging tricks of the trade. I’ve showed him the tools from my magical vest and he is quite impressed, vowing to get one himself at the first opportunity. The rest of our group has also been busy, as we have to create more potions of antidote and holy water and come up with a plan of attack.
While I can’t wait to get back to the surface and feel the wind in my hair and the sun on my face, at least my adventure into the underdark has been exciting and promises even more!
Date: March 27th and April 9th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Jim: Svirfneblin Druid named Beatle
Adrienne: Svirfneblin Ranger named Badger
We have decided on a two pronged attack against the drow fortress. The svirfneblin will attack first, in the area of the mines, with the intent of drawing the drow forces away from the upper throne room and vault entrance. After a minute or so, we will then teleport into a hallway just outside the vault. If all goes well, the svirfneblin will retreat after a minute or two of fighting and circle around to attack the throne room from the opposite side.
So far, the plan seems to be going well. We were able to get into a storage room just outside the hallway that leads to the vault. A moment after arriving we heard many footsteps run past our room and towards the stairs. After they had passed, we snuck out into the corridor and were able to silently take out two orcs who had been guarding the door to the throne room (where we think they are assembling the large metal construct). We then sealed off the outer doorway with a wall of stone spell. As we ventured down the hallway towards the vault entrance, we encountered more of the every present undead. One of them briefly paralyzed Hufrum, but his axe glowed softly, and the paralysis was broken.
At the entrance to the vault, we encountered another of the flayed undead. Its frightful presence sent both Nembarant and I scurrying off, but Hufrum was able to single-handedly destroy it with a few mighty blows from his axe. Once that was finished we entered the antechamber to the vault, where we encountered our first obstacle. For some reason the svirfneblin had failed to mention that there was a magically locked door in the antechamber which could only be opened by the key. Roobinoo sacrificed the knock spell from her spellbook and was able to open the door.
We proceeded down the first hallway without event, with me searching each 10’ section carefully. At the end of the hallway was another door, this one unlocked. Deciding that we were going too slowly, Beatle advanced past me and opened the door. We all quickly followed him through. Taking the lead once more, I advanced down the second hallway and ran right into a large axe blade which swung down from the ceiling. Ouch!
Proceeding cautiously once more, we noticed that there were scorch marks down at the corner of the corridor. I could see that they had been caused by a fireball spell and carefully examined the corner. Aided by my potion of vision, I was able to discern a proximity trap which released a fireball spell whenever anyone entered that corner of the hallway. Luckily, there was a way to temporarily disable the trap, allowing us to bypass it. We once again proceeded down the corridor, finding several more traps. These ones I disabled, instead of just bypassing them. We noticed that one of them (a particularly powerful lightning bolt trap) had been set off by someone. We also noticed two dead drow bodies at the bottom of a spiked pit trap. Apparently the drow had tried to force their way out, past the traps. Hopefully the ones left are wounded, but either way, they are at least reduced in number.
Only one more turn to go until we reach the inner doors of the vault. Once last trap to pass and we will find whatever awaits us….
Date: April 24th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Jim: Svirfneblin Druid named Beatle
Adrienne: Svirfneblin Ranger named Badger
As we came to the last trap, I failed to disarm it. Not knowing what would happen if sprung, Hufrum decided to go first. We all backed away and he passed through the trapped area without any apparent effect. Next went the two svirfneblin, then Fyn. I was next and as I passed through the area, I felt some sort of spell effect. I didn’t recognize it, but I felt burdened somehow. The others were able to pass though without any affect, so I assume it’s tied to some specific criteria to activate.
As we approached the inner sanctum, we saw an amazing sight. A cube of shimmering force enveloped the entire vault. Frozen like ants in amber, two drow and two constructs stood immobile inside. It looked as if the two drow and the smaller construct were in combat with the larger construct (which was covered in strange arcane symbols). We quickly arranged ourselves for combat and Beatle tried to enter the force field. However, he was not able to force his way in. Next, Hufrum gave it a try and once part of his body entered, the entire effect disappeared! Unfortunately for the drow, the next part of Hufrum to enter the area was his arms and his great axe. The impact rocked the drow, almost knocking him from his feet. The rest of us quickly followed up with our attacks and were able to kill both of the drow. Badger rushed over to the fallen female drow and searched for the key. She was able to quickly find it and tossed it to Hufrum. Meanwhile the larger construct had destroyed the smaller one and then turned its attention to the next closest person standing. Unfortunately Hufrum was the closest and he felt the two fisted fury of the construct. Hufrum backed away and offered up the key, which the construct took. It then turned, walked back to the center of the chamber, inserted the key into a socket in its forehead and transformed into a squat pillar, inscribed with the same arcane symbols as the construct had.
As soon as the transformation was complete, there was a noisy clang as the metal doors of three large storage lockers opened. Revealed inside was am impressive array of magical armor, weapons and other objects. We wasted no time in quickly distributing the objects to those who could best use them. Hufrum removed his armor and donned a magical belt, which when activated made a suit of platemail appear out of thin air. Fyn also donned a set of mithral chain while the rest of us equipped various rings, amulets, cloaks, boots, etc. While we waited for the dwarf and elf to finish, I tried to figure out how some of the magical items worked. A few of the rings were self evident as soon as donned, but a small cube offered the largest surprise. As I tried to activate it, it sprang from my hand, erecting a wall of force around itself and pushed us all back! I had heard of such items before but had never seen one. Figuring it would come in handy; I explained its use to Roobinoo and entrusted it to her care.
As soon as we’ve finished distributing the equipment, we’ll continue on. After conferring with the others, I think we are still on time to meet with the svirfneblin attack force. Watch out drow, here we come!
Date: June 3rd, June 17th and July 1st
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Jim: Svirfneblin Druid named Beatle
Adrienne: Svirfneblin Ranger named Badger
As we left the vault, the sounds of battle assailed our ears! The svirfneblin had already begun the assault and we quickly joined them, taking down the few drow left in the corridor. As we entered the grand hall we were greeted with the site of carnage and din of battle. A massive stone golem battled with an earth elemental and a flame elemental. An array of drow and undead creatures battled fiercely with the stalwart svirfneblin. Our first obstacle stood before us, the black tentacles writhing across the floor and waving in the air, seeking something to crush and destroy. But having dealt with this spell before, we quickly passed through them, avoiding their foul embrace. Waiting for us were the drow, equipped with glass crossbow bolts, containing foul enchantments. Lurching in behind them were more of the ever present undead creatures.
Our group advanced, quickly dealing with the undead and drow archers with a few well placed spells and some hand-to-hand combat. No sooner had we finished them then the undead drow priestess we had almost encountered on our prior rescue attempt appeared. Once again she fixated on me, her eyes blazing with hells own fury, her dry throat issuing words of enchantment and death. Luckily for me her spell was turned back by the ring I had found in the dwarven vault. Unluckily for her, Hufrum evoked the power of his god to smite her. His two handed axe swing separated her unlife from her body, destroying her for good!
By this time the stone golem had finished off the earth and fire elementals, while we had killed most of the remaining drow and undead. As I invoked the symbol of St. Sylvers to dispel the remaining drow darkness, we noticed something. There was no admantium construct here! Were could it be? We had no time to ponder, as three new threats were also revealed.
Standing before the large double door that lead to the king’s chambers were three more shield guardians. As Hufrum’s dwarven throwing hammer clanged off of one of them, a wall of stone suddenly appeared, blocking the doorway. At the same time, the shield guardian let loose a huge blast of lightning, striking Hufrum full in the chest. Wanting to find out what the black pearls did, I tossed mine at the stone golem, but its resistance to magic prevented any harm the pearl might have done. Realizing that we might be trapped between the three shield guardians and the massive stone golem, Roobinoo threw her black pearl of force, trapping a shield guardian in a solid sphere and damaging the others.
At this same time, Badger charged up to the stone golem and attacked! Her blades were able to penetrate its magic’s, carving bits of stone from its bulk. Taking up the gauntlet, the rest of us charged the golem, hoping to overwhelm it. Having been slowed by one of the svirfneblin wizards spells, the golem could but offer a feeble attack back. We hacked and smashed at its stone limbs and body with terrible force. With one last blow of my whirling steel flail, I shattered one of its legs and the behemoth tumbled to the ground, its magic destroyed, and crumbled into a heap of stone.
We then turned our attention to the remaining two shield guardians. Fyn tossed his pearl, trapping the second shield guardian on a sphere of force. Hufrum and Beatle were then able to make quick work of the remaining one.
About the same time the svirfneblin were able to defeat the rest of the drow, leaving the room clear but for the remaining spell effects and spheres of force. As we gathered around the double doors to the king’s chambers, Beatle shaped the stone covering the doorway. I quickly checked the doors and found they had been magical locked. The svirfneblin wizard was able to dispel it and I prepared to open the doors.
As I threw them open, I saw four drow archers in a 30’ long hallway that opened into a large domed chamber. Within the chamber were an array of creatures: a green skinned creature with four tentacles where it’s mouth should have been was surrounded by spheres of protective magic, two large armor plated constructs with heavy flails instead of hands that oozed blood from the joints of their armor, a shield guardian, a glyph covered construct, an semi-undead drow, the spider masked drow we had encountered before, four duergar (dark dwarves) and in the center of the chamber, a massive construct made from pure admantium.
The drow archers fired off their crossbows, but my shield was able to prevent me from being hit. They then retreated down the hallway and into the chamber. As they passed the entrance to the domed chamber, they passed through some type of wavy curtain of energy which dispelled their invisibility. I recognized it as Otilukes dispelling curtain, but Roobinoo realized that it was in fact a greater dispelling curtain.
Deciding that a two pronged attack might be more effective, Hufrum and Badger took a dimension door ride with the svirfneblin wizard to one of the side chambers. However, it turns out they appeared right in the midst of another battle between svirfneblin warriors and the drow.
I advanced down the hallway, bringing forth the symbol of St. Sylvers, hoping to blind our opponents. Fyn peppered the drow and duergar at the end of the hallway with poisoned arrows while I tagged one with daggers. Our assault caused them to withdraw farther into the room, allowing the stronger combatants to advance. Because of my spell, I was able to see the spider mask drow go ethereal and advance forward. I withdrew back to the doorway, pretending that I had not seen her. However, as she materialized, I struck quickly with my flail, knocking her tentacled mace to the ground and then striking her a might blow. She tried to draw her sword and fight but quickly realized she was outgunned. She grabbed her mace and retreated back to the ethereal plane.
Fyn took the opportunity to take down one of the duergar with a poised bolt and I advanced down the hallway, after the retreating spider mask, but first downing a potion of invisibility. Next round, I was able to take out one of the drow while Fyn put an arrow into one of the blood golems.
Meanwhile, Nembarant had discovered a new ability of his mandolin and began attempting to dispel Otilukes dispelling curtain. On the fourth try he was able to beat the magic and down came the curtain!
Of course, with the curtain down, the blood golems began to advance down the hallway. One almost stepped right on me, but I was able to tumble out of the way. I guess being invisible does have its advantages.
Hufrum and Badger had been joined by Roobinoo, Beatle and more svirfneblin for the flanking maneuver. They were able to kill off the remaining drow. Roobinoo cast a fireball into the next room, taking out yet another set of waving black tentacles. This allowed them to access the door leading into the domed chamber. However, as they opened the door, preparing to charge, they found another obstacle. A massive wall of iron blocked the entire doorway!
Date: July 30th and Aug 12th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Jim: Svirfneblin Druid named Beatle
Adrienne: Svirfneblin Ranger named Badger
While Hufrum, Badger, Roobinoo, Beatle and the other svirfneblin tried to figure out a way past the wall of iron, I formed a plan of my own. I remembered a wooden cask of oil I had stashed away in my bag of holding. Utilizing my newly acquired slippers of spider climbing and taking advantage of that fact that I was invisible, I simply walked up the wall and onto the ceiling. However, walking on the ceiling is slow going and it took me a while to position myself where I wanted to be.
Meanwhile, the blood golems had started to advance down the hallway. I guess they still thought we were all down at the end, waiting for them. Fyn was able pepper the front one with more arrows, drawing it ever closer. Luckily for Fyn, the construct was too large to fit through the half open doorway.
By this time Roobinoo, Beatle and Badger had used a dimension door spell to teleport into the far corner of the room, where they were quickly greeted by the undead drow priestess and her shield guardian. A moment later, Hufrum and some more svirfneblin teleported into the opposite corner of the room, drawing the attention of the devilish looking duergar, who moved to attack.
Beatle and Badger decided to use their pearls of force on the two strongest looking combatants. They exploded with a shower of force bolts, but then fizzled while trying to encase their targets in a sphere of force. The shield guardian moved in to attack, pounding on Beatle with its massive fists of iron. However, the red gem in the amulet Beatle was wearing glowed with a bright red light and it seemed as if the damage done to Beatle was partially reflected back onto the golem!
Hufrum wasn’t so lucky, as the devilish duergar pounded at him with a huge clawed hammer, knocking him down, stunned from the blow. The glyph covered golem had also moved in to attack the new arrives. Its massive iron fists pounded into one of the svirfneblin, killing him in a spray of blood and bones.
As the battle raged below, I moved into position above the tentacle faced wizard, opened my bag of holding and took out the cask of oil. However, it seems the wizard also had a spell of see invisible cast on him, because he noticed me almost immediately. Probably realizing that I would interrupt his golem creation ritual anyway, he chose to break it off and prepare for battle. With a word and a gesture, he cast mirror image and eight exact duplicates appeared.
I then noticed that Roobinoo was casting a spell of her own, some sort of illusion spell. A moment later, with an angelic burst of music and the smell of mint, a band of celestials popped out of a gate and into the room. To make this even more believable, I retrieved the holy symbol of St. Sylvers, flooding the room with daylight and blinding the drow, duergar and svirfneblin.
Taking this respite to recover, Hufrum called upon the power of the dwarven symbol of law which he carried. Its power was impressive, making the room seem to almost hum and throb with energy. I could feel its dislike of my unlawful ways, but could also feel that there were others in the room who were more deserving of its wrath. With a great quaking and the sound of rending earth, a chasm opened beneath the feet of the undead drow cleric. She tumbled down, into the earth, which closed with a crash and a clap like thunder.
The combination of the celestials hovering above their heads, the earth opening and swallowing their priestess and the bright daylight were too much for the drow to take and the two remaining warriors retreated down the tunnel, leaving just the duergar, constructs and tentacle face to content with.
However, my plans were now in shambles. I could no longer target the tentacle faced wizard, as there were 5 or 6 copies running around. The undead priestess was now gone and the spider mask one was still ethereal. However, one of the large blood golems had taken a few strides towards the group of Roobinoo, Beatle and Badger, so it became my new target. I lit the fuse and dropped the cask of oil on its head, trying to retreat from the whoosh of flame that erupted. The flames engulfed the construct and the smell of burning blood filled the chamber. Ten pints of oil is a lot and the excess spilled onto the floor, creating a veritable lake of fire. Ignoring the fact that it was a flaming ball of fire, the construct moved in to attack the others, spinning its mighty flails in a frenzied arc, hitting both friend and foe. It must have been in its death throws, because at it finished spinning madly, it collapsed into a pile of smoldering metal armor and a slowly oozing pool of blood.
The invisible Nembarant had moved in to assist Hufrum. Thinking quickly, Nembarant turned Hufrum invisible, allowing him to avoid the attacks of the remaining duergar and the rune covered golem. He also passed on to him the dwarven soul gem, figuring he would be best able to use it. A moment later, the tentacle faced wizard completed his spell of summoning, opening a gate to the lower plains of hell and allowing a bearded devil to step forth. Roobinoo wisely took this moment to activate the cube of force, erecting an impassible barrier around all three of them.
As the devil attacked Hufrum, he activated the dwarven soul gem and a beam of searing light shot forth, hitting the devil square in the chest. The devil screamed in agony, but continued to battle on.
Meanwhile, Fyn was peppering the blood golem with arrows, as the construct tried to bash down the remaining stone covered door. He was surprised when two fleeing drow ran around either side of the blood golem and into him. Reacting quickly, he dropped his bow and drew his sword, engaging them in hand-to-hand combat.
I had thought that the svirfneblin wizard had simply fled once his companion had been splattered all over the rune golem’s fists, but it turns out he had simply teleported out to bring in more reinforcements. Once they stepped out of the dimension door, he cast another spell on them wreathing them in a sphere of invisibility.
It also seems that Hufrum’s dwarven amulet had done more than destroy the undead cleric, for at that moment a real gate to the celestial plane opened and out stepped four dwarven warriors, glowing with a holy light…
Date: Aug 26th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Jim: Svirfneblin Druid named Beatle
Adrienne: Svirfneblin Ranger named Badger
As the dwarven warriors appeared from the gate, the first one spoke:
I know not what faithful and loyal hand has called forth the power of the Blessed Brand of Berronar, but as his faith must assuredly be pure and situation grim, we the guardians of the treasures and custodians of greater hall come forth to aid in battle against the darkening chaos of the deep. My name be known as Faenor Dumathoinuin Vardek and the loyal strength proclaimed from Dumathon himself by my name will carry the corrupt to their tombs. Let our weapons fall and sparks fly, for we are the disciples of Dordra, Daughter of Berronar and our arms strike true against those who defile the righteous.
As Vardek finished his proclamation, Barranorduin Hrunmar, the next dwarven hero spoke:
I am the great mothers’ hand of justice and as my name declares, I am the Lone Mountain of Berronar, standing here before the vile darkness and eager to bring her holy justice down upon the wicked. The dark elf, disfigured and evil, shall find his contumacious unrest with the foul demons to which he hold allegiance. By my arm and my axe, let this be done.
As Hrunmar finished, the half-drow, half-illithid retorted:
Fools! The taste of your death is already in my mouth and your guiles bravado does you no avail! I am Na’Stach, consort of Ira T’sarran, blessed champion of Kiaransalee. As she is the mistress of revenge, the damage that you and your kin have done to our plans will not go unrewarded. An added paltry few to your ranks only prolongs the pleasure of your defeat. I have not even begun to let loose my fury! Kneel before me and die swiftly or stand and writhe in agony!
At that point, Dordrian Gulgrumdek, the third dwarf spoke:
Bothers—Sisters, wounded and hurting, fall behind me. As sure as my name means ‘Good Adamantine of Dordra’, I shall be your shield against the contumacious array before you. Fall behind me and be healed, replenished and redeemed, so you may enter the battle anew against our disparate foe.
And the last dwarf spoke:
Come forth, children of light and mountain, allow Faenor Urimhand Grimgullend, Luckbeard and hand of Urim, to share with you the gracious blessing of our mother of the hearth.
At which the point they joined in the battle. Vardek and Grimgullend called forth holy fire from above and smote the rune golem and shield guardian into smoking piles of rubbish. Their companions then engaged the blood golem and fiendish duergar.
Nembarant and I decided to help out Fyn with the remaining two drow warriors. Between the three of us, we were able to make quick work of them. Roobinoo used her spell of Everads black tentacles to temporarily ensnare the remaining duergar and half-illithid wizard. However, the wizard was able to quickly dispel the magic and free them. The wizard also cast a spell which prevented those with weak wills from approaching him. I’d like to see how well it works against poisoned arrows…
Date: Sept 9th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
Julie: Gnomish Illusionist named Roobinoo
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Jim: Svirfneblin Druid named Beatle
Adrienne: Svirfneblin Ranger named Badger
With the powerful spells and attacks of the dwarven clerics, the drow and duergar quickly fell. The half-illithid wizard blasted forth powerful spells, withering the leg of Luckbeard and causing massive damage to the other dwarves. Hufrum tried to engage the wizard directly, but was quickly felled by the combined attacks from the spider masked drow and the remaining blood golem. However, after the dwarves had dealt her a few mighty blows, I was able to fell her with a well placed strike of my dagger. I have now avenged myself on both her and the other drow priestess who had imprisoned and tortured me.
With his allies fallen and the dwarves closing in, the half-illithid wizard spoke:
"Fools! You may have defeated me today, but I shall return with hundreds of my brethren and we shall raze this fortress to rubble! Mark my words—the entrance to the greater vault shall be ours, and the surface will quake in fear at the hand of Kiaransalee. What was begun before shall be finished in earnest." He then withdrew an item from his robes, crushed it with his fist and disappeared from sight!
As I recovered from the sudden relief of surviving such an epic battle, I took stock of our surroundings, marveling once again at the massive adamantine figure towering in the center of the room. I then noticed the book that the half-illithid wizard had dropped once he joined the battle. Walking over to examine it, I quickly realized it was a tome of adamantine golem creation.
The four dwarves questioned us as to what had happened and when we explained the drow invasion of the svirfneblin stronghold; they offered their healing magic to raise those who had fallen in such a noble cause. They also told of how they had waited and trained for this day and how the dwarves were now ready to return.
Over the next few days, as we rested and recovered from our ordeal, we learned that they would use this stronghold, know as the Vault of Stromduin, as a demarcation point, opening gates to allow dwarven warriors, stone masons and clerics through. From now on this hold will be strongly defended; in addition, the dwarves would restore the breached walls and reenergize the protective magics within them.
Hufrum returned through one of the gates to talk with his people. When he returned, it seemed he had a new sense of purpose and appeared more at ease with himself and the role he had to play. As we digested what we had learned, we gathered together the treasures we had taken from the fallen drow. The artifacts which we had used to defeat them were returned to their proper place in the vault, safe once again.
Group Portrait: Langly, Hufrum, Nemberant and Fyn
Date: Sept 23rd
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Before we left the dwarven vault of Stromduin, we took the chance to gather some more information from the drow. The fact that they were all dead posed a slight problem, but one of the dwarven clerics offered to help with a Speak with Dead spell. This would allow us to ask the dead drow six questions:
1) What are the Drow doing here?
a. Planning your defeat.
2) Where has all the metal been taken too?
a. To the forges to create metal men
3) Where and how many days travel to Ira T’Sarran?
a. Held by the accursed one. Is a journey of many cycles.
4) What do you seek in Klangdensturm?
a. Our greatest ally and a vessel for it.
5) Why are you attacking the surface?
a. For revenge and to subjugate all races.
6) When do you expect to subjugate the surface?
a. We have already begun!
After that enlightening conversation, Hufrum told us of his trip through the gate, back to his home. He told us that he had spoken to the dwarven thanes and told them what was transpiring here. They were not all in total agreement, but at least two of them will be sending dwarven war hosts. Hufrum must find and prepare several of the long abandoned dwarven holds for them before the end of summer. I noticed he returned with a small, heavily locked chest, just the type you’d keep a load of gems in. Guess it’ll be expensive hiring guides and adventurers to clear out all the cobwebs from some of those holds, to say nothing of restocking them…
As a sign of good will and to help the defenders, both svirfneblin and dwarven, we gifted them with many sets of armor and weapons. Once we had rested and recuperated, we decided it was time to set out for the surface. With the help of the svirfneblin and dwarves, we were able to piece together a map that would lead us upward to the surface. Packing our bags and gathering our equipment, we once again set out into the pitch blackness of the underdark, headed for home.
Fortunately the trip was uneventful and we soon reached tunnels that I recognized. Seeing one of my markings on the wall, I withdrew my map and quickly located our position. I directed us upwards to an exit. But as we came to an intersection, I was startled to see a pair of Mycean guardsmen. We greeted them warmly and explained who we were and they quickly escorted us to the surface and then on to the Citadel to see Captain Vance Tarakula.
The captain was amazed to see me alive, as he had all but given up hope as the weeks passed. It turns out I was gone for almost six weeks. And as we told our story of capture, escape and battle he poured stout ale to quench our thirst. He was amazed and grateful at all we had done and explained that the drow had stopped raiding Mycea about two weeks ago. He now knew why.
He then told us how Yolendale, Maalvi and Lucian were able to track down and kill the other initial drow raiding party that had escaped on horseback. Their trail had led them to a crypt in the hills to the north east, but they did not have time to investigate further. He also told us how other cities in the neighboring duchies had also been hit. The cities of Ananor and Hathator had similar raiding patterns as seen in Mycea. In addition, there have been troops massing at the Border Mountains far to the south. He has heard tell that the great spire is once again alight and fears that the old evils of the Norinani may be stirring once more.
When he informed us that a caravan of elves resembling Fyn had arrived two weeks ago, Fyn flew out of his chair. He insisted we leave immediately to go see them.
Before we left, I asked the captain to request an audience with the mayor of Mycea, to inform him of our findings. He said he would do so and would send word to the Twin Spirits Tavern of the time and place.
We also parted ways with Roobinoo, Beatle and Badger, as Roo wanted to return home and Beatle and Badger had decided to accompany her. I’m sure we’ll see them sooner or later. After all, Mycea is by far the most interesting place I’ve yet visited and who could stay away for long?
We then set out to the Elven quarter to see this band of newly arrived elves. It turns out they were what was left of Fyn’s family and people. The drow, assisted by an extraplaner race known as the Githyanki, had breached the protective wards of the elves sanctuary and attacked them. They had caught most of them unawares, killing many in their sleep. Some they had simply maimed, tortured and left for dead. Fyn’s brother was one of those. He had lost his arm and both his legs to the poisons of the drow. Fyn’s house had fallen.
As Fyn and his brother talked, Nemberant began to play an elven song of morning. The sad tune woke hearts deadened by pain and loss. Seeing the effect this had on the elves, Nemberant turned the music to a song of renewal and strength. His own feelings stirred by the song, Fyn began to speak to his people, promising them revenge against the drow and their evil allies.
As Hufrum watched Nemberant play and Fyn speak, I could see the fire kindle within him. He turned to me and said “Nemberant will be the spark that sets Caledendria alight”. As I listened to Nem’s fine playing and singing, I could not help but agree. If he could compose a ballad about the return of the evil and the need to rise up and fight it that appealed to the people of Mycea, it could be the spark needed to ignite the flame of defense. And I must say his performance was amazing. I don’t think I’ve ever heard music played as well as that afternoon.
As Nem’s music turned to revelry and joy, Fyn declared there would be a feast that night. He invited us all to stay and partake, but we had other pressing business to attend to. First Hufrum and I had to see the High Priestess, Mave Corandorn.
Our visit there was painful for me, as I had to explain the loss the Phelps, the acolyte who had accompanied me down into the tunnels. As we entered the church, we were greeted by Valanth Alidon, another priestess whom I had met there before. She escorted us in to see Mave, where I told the story of our journey. As I finished, I retrieved the amulet of St. Sylvers and returned it to her. She was glad it had been able to assist us in our fight and was relieved at its rescue from the hands of the drow.
Just as captain Tarakula, she too was worried about the massing of forces to the south. Her god had told her that a great evil had returned there and she feared it would soon come north. Her greatest concern was the fact that the dukes bickered and squabbled, refusing to mobilize more than a small scouting force.
She told us that the power of Aventhor (the lich who had defeated the great mage Yolendale) had taken over the Duke Dedric Coromthar when he used the crown and scepter taken from the liches tomb. Of course, this had happened over 150 years ago, so we wondered how it was related to the events now. She believed that the great evil that the dwarves had fled so long ago was stirring and trying to enter our plane of existence once again.
When asked what we, a couple of simple adventurers, could hope to do in the face of such overwhelming odds, she spoke of a great relic of power. There was a cauldron which was the physical manifestation of the goddess Ahnyweh, which was used to focus the powers of a group of priests and priestess long ago; causing the land of Caledendria to reject the Norinani. Few knew of its existence and fewer still even remember, but Mave feels it may be the only way to get the dukes to unite and fight the rising tide of evil.
She believes this cauldron, or whatever form it may now hold, is hidden within a labyrinth under a circle of standing stones far to the east. There a portal exists which is a gateway to the past and perhaps the only way to recover this lost artifact. She told us that symbol may be a rallying point for the people, reminding of them of the old ways and of Chaboloan, who united all the lands of Caledendria under one rule. To which I replied that a simple halfling and a wandering dwarf were hardly the type to inspire and lead the people. Perhaps we could just go about our business and she could find someone more suited to the task?
She told us that Yolendale, Maalvi and Lucian had ventured south to investigate the gathering forces and were expected back within a few days. She would like to have their council on the best path to follow from here, but that all of us would be central to those plans. You know, the whole speech about the smallest grain of sand tipping the scales. Gawd, the only thing I want to rescue is a cask of ale from a thick fingered inn keep and get solidly drunk.
Hufrum and I agreed to meet with her once Yolendale returned and I also told her of the meeting captain Tarakula was going to setup with the mayor. I suggested we might also want to involve the duke at some point.
We took our leave and set off to see if we could get into Cromwell Durenheart’s residence. It turned out to be easier than we thought, as the door was open. Of course all the valuables were also missing, but I guess that’s what happens when you leave your house unattended for six weeks in a busy city like Mycea. Fortunately, we were able to find the keys and get everything back in order. It’s of stout construction and will make a fine place to stay while we are in the city. We’ll just be sure to have it watched whenever we have to leave for any length of time.
While I went off to visit the Mage College of Mycea, Hufrum visited the Smithy Guild to inform them of Cromwell’s death. He also managed to arrange the purchase of a matched set of adamantine plate, shield and hammer to the guild hall. Seems such crafting is rare and adamantine is very hard to work, so it’s a mark of some prestige to have some for display.
I can only hope we are able to sell the rest of it with similar good luck, as it’ll take quite a chunk of change to buy that tavern…
Date: Oct 11th
1-1 with Langly
After composing a letter about my adventures since leaving my home and family almost a year ago, I’ve contracted with the local Couriers Guild to have it sent home and return with a reply. I can only imagine what Father and Mother will think of all I’ve gone through. I hope they are doing well…
My meeting with head master of the Mage Guild, Lecrutius, went well. We discussed how the shadow attack on Yolendale had upset the entire school. When asked why, he said because it must have been an inside job. Only someone very familiar with the nature of the schools protective magic’s could have breached them without setting off the alarm. However, he is not sure who might be responsible. They have also been busy with preparations for war. The Mage Guild (as every other guild) has certain required duties to the Duchy and City of Mycea during times of conflict and they have been busy preparing for the possibility they will be called upon. He also promised me one of the professors studied in extra planner knowledge would look into the Githyanki. They would probably require at least a week or so of research before a report could be made.
The meeting with Den and Finneus also went very well. They were amazed that I had returned, as they had given me up for the dead. My tale also confirmed for them the true danger the Drow posed. With that in mind, Finneus and I talked privately and at great length about his plans and my involvement in the future of Mycea.
It turns out the drow raids have driven up the price of metal, an already scarce resource. In addition, the lack of mobilization within the Duchy of Mycea could be seen as a weakness by our more warlike neighbors. Finneus is worried that they may make a move against us, as Mycea is a rich city, ripe with wealth and trade. However, he also believes that we can use the current situation to our advantage. The current Duke of Mycea is seen as weak and not able to muster for war. If we can support a noble with a valid claim to the ducal seat, we may be able to replace the Duke with our own man. Finneus will think more about this, and present me to a candidate before my meeting with the Mayor. If possible, he would like me to bend the mayors’ ear towards our man, in the hopes that the “Heroes of the Day” may be able to bolster his stature. Depending on how the meeting with the mayor goes, we may then be called upon to visit the other nearby duchies and garner their support as well.
We also discussed my purchase of the Twin Spirits Tavern (to become the Hungry Halfling) and how it could be used to the guilds advantage. He warned me that location is currently in the area controlled by the Cudgel, but to continue to pay their protection as to not arouse suspicion. We will be placing a guild member as one of the waiters. They will then be in a position to pass along information, handle contacts, smuggle goods and members in and out of the tunnels, etc.
Finneus also suggested I take on an assistant to help me with my new role. He suggested a daughter of one of the lesser noble houses who was also studying to be a mage. She had joined the guild to seek some excitement a while ago and would be the perfect asset when interacting with the nobility of Mycea. Her name is: Wystra Feldenheur. He will schedule a meeting with her tomorrow.
After I told him of my friend Nemberant and our plans for him to forge an epic song to rouse the populace to action, he gave me a list of ideas that would work well for such a purpose. Key phrases and ideals that are common to all the peoples of Mycea and Caledendria.
The next night, I gave a talk and demonstration of some of the traps I had encountered in the dwarven vault. Such devices are very uncommon and very exciting, so the house was packed. I used a few minor image spells to diagram exactly how the mechanical traps worked. With a ghost sound spell for added effect, the illusions of the magical traps were a real crowd pleaser. Of course the final guardian and its powers amazed everyone, Finneus included. I promised to give another talk when I have some more free time. I feel that my stature within the guild has risen considerably from this one talk alone. Before I was known only to a few, but now I have the eye of quite a few cell leaders. We shall see what comes of it…
Preparations for the grand opening of the Hungry Halfling are going well. We have workmen painting, plastering and polishing everything in sight. In addition, I have perfected a cantrip which will enhance the flavor of any food. The combination of Nembarants performance, the new menu and makeover should make the Hungry Halfling the new hot spot in town!
Date: Nov 4th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
(Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn)
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Over the next few days, we continued to gather information and flesh out our plans of what to do next. Hufrum and I met with a member of the Teamsters Guild named Tannery, who claims to have been to each of the Duchies at least three times. He has agreed to hire on to manage the men and supplies and act as our guide when we have to visit the other Dukes.
But of course, we still don’t know exactly when that is going to be because we have not yet had our meeting (or even know when it’s supposed to be) with Mayor Vallorian Maspirus. However, this additional time has allowed us to find out about Marques Gauron Denamar, who is the nephew of the current Duke Mouve Phytobaum. It turns out Marques Denamar is a laurelled warrior who’s father was related to the Duke of Amanthor. Not only does he have a strong claim to the ducal seat, but he is also well liked and respected by the general populace. Apparently the current duke is not seen much, as he spends most of his time out of the city, entertaining at his lavish estates. And as the old saying goes “Out of sight, out of Mind”.
A few days after our audience with the displaced grey Elven Court, we all met up at the infamous Blue Stag for a round of drinks. Of course, Phalen Moor was happy to see us back again and informed us he had improved upon his signature drink. I must say, it’s just as tasty a drink as I remember it being. After a drink or two, Nembarant decided to sing a song and Phalen willing cleared the stage for him. His first song was pleasant and well sung. However, after that warm up, he broke into an impromptu song of praise for the Blue Stag, both the drink and the owner. As he worked his way into the song, a hush fell over the crowd, for any noise was exactly that compared to the dulcet tones issuing from the wonder of sound and music that Nembarant was creating. As he finished up, the crowd was silent for a moment, then burst into tumultuous applause, all realizing that was a performance far beyond any that had ever been heard in the Blue Stag before.
Hufrum and I stepped outside for a breather and I lit up one of the new pipes I had purchased at the market yesterday. As I blew a dark blue smoke ring into the air, a robed figure stepped out of it and greeted Hufrum. Looking up at him, I almost did not recognize Yolendale, as not only was he dressed differently, but he also carried himself differently. It appears more of Yolendale than Ghendel is now present.
He introduced his traveling companion, Hernie Whiteye, and informed us he had just returned to Mycea from the southern mountains. We agreed to meet at Durenhearts house after I had rounded up the rest of the party. Once there Yolendale told us of his trip south. He has seen the Tower of Aventhor’s watch fire rekindled and a host 2000 strong of half-beast men, undead and red dragons gathered around it. The fact that they are not at each others throats means a stronger power is in charge of them. We discussed the Githyanki and fact that they had a pack with the red dragons and often used them as winged mounts in combat and it’s relation to the drow raids on the grey elves. Yolendale informed us that Lucian and Maalvi were still down south scouting further into the mountains and he did not expect them back anytime soon.
We had planned on visiting the Elven lands first, hoping to gain their support for the coming war effort. However, without Lucian to guide and introduce us at the Elven Court, we may have better luck with the human duchies first. Perhaps our meeting with the Mayor will help us decide on our next course of action…
Date: Nov 18th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
The preparations for the grand opening of the Hungry Halfling inn have taken days longer than I had thought, but the day is finally here. I spent all morning cooking and baking, but I have outdone myself with the menu for this evening. Not only is there a huge selection of party foods that you can eat without plates or utensils, there is also an extravagant list of delectables for the lucky few who will be able to sit down and eat in the dinning room. In addition, I’d stocked enough ale for over 200 revelers, which I thought would be more than enough!
It seems the word had gotten out about the grand opening, as people started to arrive as early as 4pm. Luckily, I had prepared for this and set out a few trays of diced vegetables, bread and an assortment of sauces to use as dip. This seemed to keep the crowd occupied while waiting for the festivities to begin.
At 5pm sharp, I stood upon a makeshift stage in front of the Inn and made a short speech about the Inn, its old owner Damryn Maltar and what I hoped to do with the place. I then had the ale and party foods brought out and got that party started. As I descended from the stage, I noticed a coach had arrived, surrounded by six city guardsmen. The guards made path through the crowd as the occupant of the coach moved forward. Wystra informed me that the tall, handsome man approaching was non-other than Mayor Vallorian Maspirus! I immediately went to greet him, introducing myself and inviting him inside. As he and his retinue entered the inn, Wystra pointed out two other minor nobles who were also waiting. I had her invite them in also, to sit with the mayor. After they had been settled at the front tables and been served a fine bottle of wine, the rest of the guests began to enter and be seated. Wystra allowed some of them walk past the mayors table to pay their respects.
The troupe of minstrels I had hired to perform as the opening act was reputed to be one of the best in all of Mycea. And indeed, they put on a decent performance, however, I soon heard cry’s of ‘Nembarant’ and ‘We want to hear the bard!’ Figuring, I had postponed as long as possible, I signaled to the performers to tie it up. Once they finished their song, I stood up on stage and introduced Nembarant as one of the most talented bards I had ever had the pleasure of listening to. I left the stage empty for a few moments, to build up the tension as high as possible, before motioning Nembarant forward.
Nembarants first song was a stirring ballad about Caledendria before the time of the Norinani. How the people worked together, each tribe stronger than the sum of its parts. It finished with a crescendo of chanting voices, talking in the old tongue of a people united as one, while Nembarant translated for the rest of us. It was an amazing performance, his music and song enhanced with the skillful use of magic most did not even notice. As he finished, there was a short silence, followed by an explosion of cheering, clapping and stomping of feat. The windows and doors to the front had been thrown open so those outside could hear and the sound of hundreds of people celebrating rocked the very walls of the inn.
In fact, such had the crowd grown, that Nembarants next performance had to be outside, on a makeshift stage formed of two tables wedged together and covered with a tablecloth. By now the street was packed from wall to wall with people. The neighbors had thrown open their windows and doors, inviting friends and strangers alike within. The ale was flowing freely from the taps and I realized I didn’t have nearly enough. I quickly ordered a few runners off to find a dozen more casks, even though I knew it’d cost me a pretty penny, I knew it would cost more than that if we ran out…
Nembarants next song continued the theme of uniting the people against a common foe. As he sang, I could feel the crowd buzz and bend to his words, as they evoked deep seated beliefs held by all Caledendrians. As he finished up his song and the applause of the crowd died down, a tall figure approached the stage and motioned to Nembarant. He quickly recognized it as Yolendale and made room on the stage for him. With a distinct POP and a small flash of light, Yolendale teleported up onto the stage, immediately seizing the crowds attention.
With a booming voice and strident gestures, Yolendale tells the tale of his trip south, into the mountains that guard against the waist. He tells of the drow and how we must unite with the southern duchies to defend against the rising evil. With a wave of his hand he conjures forth an illusion of the southern mountains, with dark clouds and lightning flashing in the distance. It shows the tower of Aventhor, with a putrid red light flickering atop its highest spire. Small shapes swarm around the base, too distant to see clearly. Other shapes, wing and circle in the air around the tower. Suddenly, one of these shapes breaks from the tower and flies at enormous speed straight at us: a red dragon! The crowd cowers and shrieks in fear, but Yolendale dispels the illusion before panic sets in. He finishes his speech with a warning that all the duchies must unite together if we expect Caledendria to survive the coming trials. With that, he departs in a flash of light and a clap of thunder.
Seeing the agitated state of the crowd, Nembarant decides to play another tune, one of hope and light overcoming the darkness. The star of Caledendria shall shine through the deepest darkness. It is in fact, the story of our battle in the underdark, against the drow and their foul minions, to free the deep gnomes. As Nembarant finishes up his song, he introduces each member of the group, to the thunderous applause of the crowd.
At the last words, the mayor himself takes a place on the stage, raising his hands to silence the crowd. He begins by saying that Yolendales words must be heeded, but that the city of Mycea is not in any present danger. He points to the four of us on the stage and goes on about how we have secured the city from the ravages of the drow. He wishes to honor us by presenting the key to the city and giving us the honorary title of Captains of the Guard, in hopes that we will continue to defend the great city of Mycea. We each give a small speech of thanks, accepting his praise and the honor the city has done us.
As we finish up, a tall man in a cloak pushes his way through the crowd. As he reaches the stage, he throws back his hood, revealing his face to those onstage. The mayor greets him formally, Marques Gauron Denamar and makes way for him onto the stage. As he turns to face the people, a murmur runs through crowd. Many of them obviously recognize the nephew of the duke.
Gauron proceeds to give a speech about the need to unite the north and south. He says that the trying times before us require all the peoples of the western heartlands to stand together to face the greater threat. He finishes by saying that he will be riding south with any able man who wishes to join him, for he means to meet this evil face to face and destroy it!
As Gauron finishes his speech, I feel compelled to lend credence to it, so I tell of how the High Priestess Mave Corodon has told us of a great evil that stirs to the south. As I finish, Hufrum steps forward and tells of how the Dwarven war hosts are preparing to march forth against this same evil. At mention of the dwarves, another murmur runs through the crowd. Hufrum goes on to say that all the peoples, dwarves, elves, gnomes, halflings and humans are strongest when all banded together with a common purpose.
The crowd seemed to respond well to this series of events and speeches, as they cheered each of us in turn. Of course, it may just have been the fine food and flowing ale that they were celebrating, but none the less, I felt like we made waves that night.
Deciding to end on a high note, Nembarant broke into a series of standards, asking the troupe of minstrels I had hired to join in. They rose to the occasion, performing as well I’ve heard a band play in many a year. The merry music seemed to lift the spirits of the crowed even more, as many broke into dances, stomping their feet and clapping their hands.
Back inside the inn, marques Denamar told us that the Duke would have us attend him the next evening. He would be sure a formal invitation was sent, letting us know the particulars. The mayor then informed us that he would like to meet with us first thing next morning, to formally grant the honors he had bestowed upon us this night.
After the mayor was once again seated, marques Denamar motioned me aside and said that he would like a word with the group in private before he left. I asked him to wait at the bar and enjoy some of the fine food and wine while I rounded up the other three…
Date: Feb 10th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
After assuring myself that Denamar would consider me his close and personal friend, I rounded up the rest of the group and we retired to a back room, safe from prying eyes. Denamar takes off his cloak to reveal a royal blue tabard with the crest of Amathor emblazoned across it in gold thread. He is also wearing fine chain mail and carries a sword at his hip.
After I assure him we are safe from eavesdroppers, he speaks freely, talking about how the Duke is weak and needs to be replaced with a strong leader, one who puts the people above his own selfish needs. He says that he is a faithful follower of the goddess, Ahnyweh and his intent is only to save the people of Caledendria.
He goes on to talk about the Dukes child, who he says is a half-breed. He describes the child as having the stature of a 6 year old when he is 15 years old. The child’s skin is white and looks more like an elf than a human. When pressed, he will say no more, just that we will see for ourselves when we come out to the estate tomorrow. He guarantees that we will receive an invitation by tomorrow afternoon…
He also describes how the Duke used to be a bold man, competing in tourneys, jousting, hunting and traveling. However, with the birth of his son, all that changed. That is when the Duke retired from public view and into his current situation.
Just before he leaves, he mentions that we need to be careful, as he suspects there is a spy among the powers of Mycea, secretly sowing the seeds of doubt and corruption.
As he bids goodbye, there is a nock on the door and Yolendale asks if he may come in. He nods to Denamar on his way out. Yolendale speaks with us for a while, explaining that he has found out that the massing of the forces beyond the mountains is the work of the Lich Aventhor, using the corrupted Lord Dedric Coromthar as his vessel.
When we ask Yolendale about the Dukes son, he doesn’t know, as he was “out of it” before the current duke took over. He however says that he can cast a scrying spell and we can see first hand. We return to Yolendale’s room in the mage guild where he has a mirror of scrying setup.
After the spell has been cast, we see a room lit by candlelight, furnished with rich tapestries and furniture. The Duchess, a woman with long, black hair and pale features, is sitting with a boy, playing some sort of game. The boys’ skin is alabaster white, almost luminescent. His features are more Elven than human, with pointed ears, delicate eyes and high arched brows. He appears to be the age of a six year old, but talks as if he were quite a bit older.
As we watch, the child appears to have some sort of fit, jerking about and babbling incoherently. His mother holds him close, trying to soothe him. Both Yolendale and I cast a Tongues spell, as we did not recognize the language the boy was speaking. We can still only understand part of what the boy says:
- The serpent is already amongst them
- The evil is beyond the door
- The double will find its doom
As the seizure increased in intensity, Philo suddenly sensed danger. At the same moment, the scrying spell was disrupted, the mirror fading to silver again.
We discussed the unusual turn of events for a moment, trying to figure out what the phrases the boy had said might mean. As we talked, Hufrum got this strange look in his eye, pulled his dagger from his belt and pricked his finger. A drop of red blood welled forth and the then offered the dagger to Yolendale, asking to ‘see the color of his blood’. Yolendale stared at him aghast, sputtering out a shocked ‘what the hell are you talking about dwarf’?
Hufrum then turned to me, offering the dagger and asking the same question. I told him to bugger off, that he was acting crazy again. He did the same to Nembarant, who complied, showing a drop of red blood. When Fyn was asked, he simply turned his head, commenting on the strange ways of dwarves.
Having had enough of this foolishness, Yolendale escorted us out of his chambers, saying he had better things to do than partake in outlandish dwarven games. Hufrum and Nembarant walked ahead, deep in a hushed conversation. I explained that I needed to go down to the Mage Guild kitchens before returning home. Fyn gave his goodnights and said he would retire to the Elven quarter to rest. Hufrum went off on his crazy ways and Nem asked if he and I could talk when I returned from my errands.
After a couple of hours preparing a special desert for our visit with the duke tomorrow, I returned home. Nem was waiting up for me and we had a glass of wine before going off to bed. He asked me about Yolendale and if I trusted him or not. I assured him that Yolendale was the least likely person to be the turncoat and that Hufrum was simply returning to his paranoid ways. But with the tasks at hand and the stakes this high, I also assured Nem that having a paranoid dwarf at your back was not necessarily a bad thing.
The next morning, a coach waited outside Cromwell’s house to take us to the mayoral keep. None of us had ever been to the keep, so we looked forward to seeing the inside; in addition to the honors we had been promised.
As we arrived, we were escorted into the antechamber and asked to wait while the duke was informed of our arrival. A moment later we were lead into the grand hall, as a page announced our arrival, giving out our full names. Spacious marble floors, a 30’ high crested ceiling and walls lined with paintings and tapestries emphasized the power and riches that Mycea represented. A royal blue carpet ran down the center of the hall, ending near a raised dais. At the dais, seated behind an ornate table, was Mayor Vallorian Maspirus. As we approached, he rose and greeted us formally. He then presented us each with a gold medallion, bearing the many spoked wheel of Ahnyweh on a blue ribbon. He thanked us for our service to Mycea and that these medallions and accompanying paperwork, conferred up us the title of Lord Protector of Mycea, the equivalent rank of Captain of the Guard. We offered our thanks in return and the hope that we could uphold the trust that had been placed on us to guard Mycea.
At this point he motioned us closer and dismissed the guards and attendants. Come he said, I have something else I’d like to speak with you about. He went on to explain that he and the Duke had been friends since childhood. He knew the Duke when he was a celebrated officer, outgoing and commanding. He warns us that the Duke has depth and that all is not as it may seem. He goes on to state that we are being tested, but refuses to say who is testing us.
He stands by his duke, saying that he has made his choice. When we voice our fears for Caledendria and the coming conflict, he asks if we would give all to assure the freedom and safety of the citizens of Caledendria. Not just our lives in a noble death, but perhaps to give up all we hold dear and turn away from our chosen path…We assure him that we would be willing to make any sacrifice, no matter how horrific. With that, he thanks us once again and assures us that we will be invited to the Dukes estate that evening.
As we return to the Hungry Halfling, Hufrum goes off on an errand. Upon our arrival, Valanth Alidon, the assistant to High Priestess Mave Corandorn, greets us and asks that we come to the temple, as the High Priestess has an urgent matter to discuss.
We arrive to find that Hufrum has completed his errands and is also at the church. We are quickly escorted in to see Mave. She informs us that she has had a vision from the goddess. She saw Lucian and Maalvi trapped, in chains and in grave danger. She also had a sense of a familiar energy, one she should recognize, but doesn’t. This person or being is in two places at once. One is close by and safe (or free). The other is imprisoned and not free. We question her further but she can’t tell us anymore, as it appears some power is blocking her full understanding. We worry that something that could block the goddesses’ power must be very strong. She agrees, but postulates that it could simply be she is not ready to understand yet.
We then ask her about the Duke and Duchess. Does she know of their child’s ailment? When informed of our scrying and what we had seen, she is interested. If this is indeed a blessing of the goddess, the child must be brought to the church. She went on to say how the Duke and Duchess used to attend church regularly, and had even asked for a special blessing, as they had been married for 9 years without child. After the birth of their son, they stopped coming to services.
She once again spoke of the Cauldron and that we should quest after it. She also mentioned the archives in the ruins of the ancient capital city of Kandali, that it might have books on the location of the cauldron. She even hazards a guess that the ruins themselves might be the location. We assure her that we will consider questing for the Cauldron, but that we need to rouse the Duchies to prepare for war first.
She says a prayer and gives us leave to go…
Date: Feb 23rd and Mar 30th
Jayme: Halfling Rogue/Ranger/Wizard named Langly
Chuck: Dwarven Fighter/Cleric named Hufrum
Cameron: Elven Ranger named Fyn
Mark: Gnomish Bard named Nembarant
Jason: Human named Gauron
The next day we prepared to meet with Duke Mouve Phytobaum. First we conceal our equipment in my bag of holding; we then cast non-detection spells on our magical gear. We also fetch a suite of adamantine plate mail as a possible gift to the duke. Dressed in our finest clothing, we are ready!
Soon a coach and driver arrive to take us out of the city. After a ride of an hour or so, we reach the ducal estates. The manor house is fortified with an outer wall of stone, containing gardens a large courtyard and the manor house itself. We arrive just after dusk, so the scene is lit with torches, with just a wisp of bright pink cloud catching the last rays of the sun.
We are greeted by the steward and escorted to the garden where the rest of the guests are partaking of wine and other refreshments. There we are formally announced, each in turn. As we enter, Wystra points out select nobles and other persons, explaining who they are and where they hail from. After chatting for a while, we are finally called to dinner. As the guests of honor, we are announced last, but seated at the duke’s side at the high table.
The duke makes a welcome speech, and then the small talk begins as the dinner courses are brought in. After some light conversation, the duke asks Yolendale what is was like serving Duke Dedric Coromthar. Yolendale deals with the question gracefully, trying his best to diffuse the question with a glib answer. At one point the dukes’ son, Viconesen, speaks to Hufrum, saying that he serves his Uncle well.
After all the courses have been served, several nobles present gifts to the duke: A black glass bottle containing a rare vintage; a chess set. Hufrum presents his costly dwarven draught not to the duke, but to his son, Viconesen. At this the duke calls forth the ducal cup, a platinum chalice, engraved and filigreed. Viconesen drinks it and thanks Hufrum. The duke appears to like this and also thanks Hufrum and raises a toast to Mycia.
After the gifts, a stage is setup and Nymberant begins to play. His songs are as good as usual, impressing the crowd. But the duke seems almost bored, acting the part of the good host. Hufrum had retired to the garden to clear his head, but he returned a moment later, telling me that he had seen some sort of magical sensor that was spying on him.
Before we had more than an instant to discuss this development, the dukes son stood, turned around, pointed at Yolendale and started to scream that “evil is among us!”.
At that point, all hell seems to break loose. Yolendale casts a spell that I recognize as ‘polymorph’ and Hernie white-eye turns into an Illithid. The Hufrum and the guards quickly rush forward, attacking the Illithid creature. Marques Gauron Denamar tries to get the duke, duchess and their son out of the room as quickly as possible. However an invisible Yolendale casts a ‘flesh-to-stone’ spell on Viconesen, turning him into a statue.
Nemberant is able to evoke a ‘greater dispel magic’ which removes the polymorph from Hernie. As he returns to his normal form, he turns and points at the image of Yolendale and screams that it is an imposter and that it has been mind controlling him.
At the point, Josephine, Yolendales raven familiar flies into the room and begins to transform into a red dragon. Seeing this, duke Phytobaum grabs a sword from one of the guards and charges in to attack. The battle is fast and furious, with another ‘greater dispel magic’ from Nem taking out almost all of Yolendales magical defenses. With that, I moved in and quickly killed him. However, his essence seemed to move on to Fyn, as I began to detect him as an enemy. Before I could do more than question him, he cast a ‘feeblemind’ spell at my and that is the last I remember before being awoken by Lucretius, the head of the Mage School.
Turns out that the being took over duke Phytobaum, grabbed the dead body of Yolendale and teleported out. Hufrum and the gang were able to kill the red dragon before it escaped also. They then sent for High Priestess Mave Corandorn and Lucretius, to remove the effects of the spells cast upon myself and the duke’s son.
Once Mave sees the statue of Viconesen, she kneels and says a prayer, dispelling the magic. As she sees his face for the first time, she exclaims “The gods have sent us a champion”. She goes on to explain that his presence is surely a sign that we must attempt to recover the cauldron.
At that the duchess speaks about her son and why the duke had changed his demeanor so long ago. They had been visited by a seer, who had prophesied that evil would come and kill their son. To protect him, they hid him from the world, retiring from public affairs, afraid to expose him, lest the prophecy come to pass.
After a long discussion, the duchess agrees to tell the people of Mycia about the disappearance of the duke and turns over control of the Mycean forces to marques Denamar. She will return south to Amathor, where her and her son will be safe. She tells Denamar to train the troops of Mycia for war.
I beg that she stay the night, so that we may ask her son some questions before they leave. I hope to be able to possible gain some insight as to the location of the lost cauldron of Ahnyweh. I also hope to convince marques Denamar to assist us on our quest…