Rise of the Phoenix

Accusations

2011-10-17T09:20:00.002-04:00

Ethan sat in the sparse room the Korred had provided, his thoughts running over the events of the past day. The flight through the city and ensuing fight with the demon. Learning that Jaryn and Tharunn had been captured. The rescue. The rescue.

"Six take 'em!" Ethan shouted as he struck the wall with his fist. Nenia flinched at his outburst and a few eyebrows raised in surprise. Only Sterling didn't react, his face unreadable as ever. And Braddoc, the dwarf sat in the corner helm pulled over his eyes as he napped.

"Ogre's eyes I've had it with him! It's his fault" Ethan accused as he pointed at Braddoc. "We waited for him to rest and Jaryn died because we were too slow. Died for what? We are no further ahead and our friend who toiled for years to free us is dead, because we didn't act.

"Jaryn's death is on you Braddoc. You bear this burden. Six take you Braddoc, Six take you"

With that Ethan left the room lest the others see the sorrow that was about to overwhelm him.

The First Crack

2011-09-22T13:54:00.003-04:00

I always knew there would be statues of me erected someday, and honestly, I was looking forward to it... but I didn't want to be the statue. Two years of my life stolen, just like that. Perhaps I should be a little more careful around beings of power, but I don't want to undermind the confidence of my compatriots.

What to do now?

Journal Fragments

2011-09-18T16:08:00.003-04:00

What follows are fragments of Ethan's recent journal entry.

...Tower spit! Nenia is an Eladrin? This is highly suspect to me. I fear something has happened to the Nenia we have all come to know and trust? Did she return from stone before me or after? Was she ever truly human or is she a changeling. A doppelganger that needs watching...

...Stars and Stones he listened. Perhaps being turned to stone has softened Braddock. I asked him to perform a maneuver in combat and he listened. Who knew...

Recap # 28 - Out of the Frying Pan and into the Boiling Cauldron

2011-09-17T11:31:00.000-04:00

Author's note:
So, being delinquent 2 years ago accounts for a number of recaps that didn't occur. I'm going to wave my magic DM hands and point out the following:

The party made it to the Elemental Chaos (Plane of Fire) via a ritual/portal in Mount Onatar in Eberron. However one of their arch rivals - Skamos the Tiefling - followed them through. In the ensuing battle he summoned the undead Sinruth and managed to get his hands on the two Phoenix items that the party was carrying.
The party destroyed Sinruth but before Skamos to escape a huge devil appeared. From the brief conversation (i.e. begging and pleading on Skamos part) it was evident to the party that their was a past history between the two.
The devil proceeded to smash Skamos to a pulp (literally), take the Phoenix items for himself, and turn the party to stone.
Unbeknownst to the now-petrified heroes, this entire scene was witnessed by a Korred scout/thief named Ize. He observed a squad of Salamanders and Azers from the nearby city move in and engage the devil who they called Zul'bar. The devil teleported away and the squad loaded up the newly created statues and headed back to town.
Ize carefully made his way back to his superiors to report these incredible events.

The Session

The party "awoke" to find themselves standing in small, well-kept park or garden. Before them stood 5 individuals: 4 humans - one of which looked to be a young teen boy - and a small, unkempt individual who was urging them to quickly follow before they were discovered by the Chattlemaster's Guard and summarily executed.
After a brief moment the party recognized two of the strangers as their previous comrades Tharunn and Jaryn. They looked like they had aged though.
One of the other men introduced himself as Harrison Crabfeather. He had just completed a ritual to free the party from their stone stasis of over two years. At the urging of Tharunn the party struggled to follow their rescuers through the streets and alleyways toward safety in "The Pit". No small feat as they felt weak and slow from petrification effects.
The party discovered that Harrison had some allies creating distractions throughout the city to try and hide the escape.
During their flight Harrison's companion - a warlock of some sort - tripped and fell while crossing a street to an alley. He was spotted by a group of guardsmen who began firing arrows down the alley.
At the head of the group ran the small, unkempt creature who had been introduced as the Korred named Ize. In a dark shadow of the alley he pulled out some small device, murmured some soft words and open a magically sealed door before plunging into the hole.
It turned out to be a escape shaft of some sort. One by one the party leaped into the darkness and slid crazily through the tunnel. It was a struggle to keep from getting disoriented and dizzy. Braddoc and Delian brought of the rear and somehow Ize appeared behind them to seal the door again.
At the bottom the party found themselves in a dimly lit sealed room. After a moment, Ize extinguished the light and repeated his actions from above. Another sealed door opened. This time the party found themselves looking across a huge cavern decorated in hanging chains, winches, elevators, and bridges. Jaryn indicated that the need to get to a tunnel approximately 50 feet below in order to continue their journey.
Sizing up the jump, Ethan took hold of one end of a rope in his pack, handed the other end to Braddoc, Sterling, and Delian an pitched himself deftly from the edge of the drop. Landing like a cat, proceeded to tie off his end of the rope and hide in the shadows watching for danger.
One by one the party began making their way down the rope. Unfortunately they were spotted by some guards on an upper tier along the cavern wall. As arrows began to pelt down onto the party Tharunn and Jaryn nodded their heads to the group, indicated to Harrison and Ize that they would meet up "at the usual spot" later, and headed off along the ledge into the steamy shadows.
Aside from the warlock who nearly plunged to his death as his hung from one hand over the vast cavern, the party managed to make their way down. Together they pulled the rope and rock it was tied to off the upper ledge and let it plunge into the depths before they headed into the dark cave behind them. The rest of the journey was uneventful as they slide down another (very long) tube and found themselves lying on the ground before two more Korred. Ize introduced them as Two-Toes and Shaman. They only spoke an old elvish dialect.
After a brief conversation Two-Toes and Shaman turned and left. The party took a short rest and finally had a chance to properly dialogue with Harrison and his companion. (Noah, I need your warlock's name man!)
A short time later an alarm was raised. It seems a demon Solamith had recently found its way into the tunnels here and had taken to killing and feeding upon anyone unlucky enough to meet it. The party decided to assist.
A short distance away they found 5-6 Korred battling the Solamith who had allied itself with 2 Chasme, 2 Canoloth, and 4 Canoloth Harriers. Though they fought bravely, 4 of the Korred perished.
Though still sluggish, the party waded into the battle toward the 20 ft ledge from which the Solamith was tearing out chunks of its own flesh and hurling onto its enemies below. With tongues reminiscent of chameleons, the Canoloth peppered the party from up to 20 feet away keeping them dazed at every turn.
As they cleared the floor below the party was able to make their way onto the ledge. From their they surrounded the demon and eventually destroyed it thereby earning some respect and trust from the local Korred.
As they searched the corpses and tended to the wounded Ize ran in. With a grave look he informed the party that Tharunn and Jaryn had somehow been captured. The party was requested to join Two-Toes and Shaman for a meeting.

Cauldron's Background

2011-09-17T10:02:00.000-04:00

The slaves of the town (the Korreds) have had an underground resistance movement for generations. Their masters are extremely powerful so they have exercised EXTREME patience while they scheme and plan and wait for the opportunity to bring down their captors. They trust you both enough to have included you both in their plan to free the party who they see as crucial allies in their struggles. It is their hope that the party will help bring about the downfall of the town's guards and allow all the slave to escape.

While most of the resistance remains hidden in vast underground chambers you both are able to move freely in the town. With that said, you both have the distinct impression that the authority above is starting to suspect you both and that you are being watched carefully. It wouldn't take much for you to be arrested, quickly tried and executed if someone began to solidly suspect your involvement with the Free-Kors as they are called.

Cauldron

Population:

4,500 adults (large town).
Mixed (79% Korred, 9% Azers, 5% Archons, 3% Salamanders, 2% Phoelarch, 2% other).
Korred are slaves who have been working the steam pits for generations.

Economy:

Mushrooms/fungi – major food export to the City of Brass
Fire mare herds – raised for export to City of Brass
Exotic gems, cut gemstones, obsidian
Water – Collected from steam pits and stored under constant heavy guard.

Authority Figures:

Lord Balrus

male efreet karadjin
rarely seen and VERY powerful
rumoured to spend most of his time in the City of Brass with occasion unannounced visits to keep the town’s lords on their toes

Lord Xan'klru'atzl, Chattlemaster

Beholder
Answers only to Lord Balrus
Resides in “castle”
Merciless

Terseon Skellerang

male salamander noble
Captain of the Chattlemaster Guard

Town Emblem:

A blue circle wreathed in flames.

Description:

Believed to have been founded by Lord Balrus, Cauldron is the only populous area in the Cauldron Region. The Cauldron region is in a barren volcanic wasteland. The town’s buildings, tightly packed and built from volcanic rock and petrified wood, linethe inner bowl of a nameless, dormant volcano. Obsidian roads form concentric circles around a steaming pit, which fills the volcano’s basin. The steam which emits from this pit is what makes Cauldron so unique.

A 50-foot-tall fortified wall of black malachite encircles the city, tracing the outer rim of the volcano, contains only one main entrance which begins the long road to The City of Brass. The districts nearer the rim of the city tend to be occupied by upper class (mostly salamanders) and elite merchants (mostly azars). The closer one gets to the centre of town (and the closer to the pungent odours of the central steam pit), the shoddier the construction and the more dangerous the dark alleys. This is where the bulk of the cities slaves spend the time they are not working the mushroom farms in the pit’s side caverns or mining the ore and precious metals found throughout the caverns walls below. Smaller avenues connect the four main roadways (from outer to inner, the avenues are named Obsidian, Magma, Lava, and Ash), which form concentric terraces down to the pit in the centre of the town.

Cauldron is ultimately ruled by Lord Balrus. Over the years he has entrusted this duty to the beholder Lord Xan'klru'atzl. Other important individuals in the city include Terseon Skellerang, captain of the Chattlemaster’s Guard, the members of the noble families, and Cauldron’s few wealthy merchant interests.

Cauldron’s major exports come from two sources: mines and plantations. Both industries are based within the pit itself, and are managed by the various noble families who live in the area. Obsidian and diamonds are theprimary products mined in the region. Plantations – located in underground caverns running perpendicular to the pit usually produce mushrooms and other underground plants. Most of those who dwell in the city itself are slaves and those associated with running the harvesting operations. While steam issues from the mouth of the pit, there are very few places where it collects naturally. There are a few collection centres located around the mouth of the pit which are very heavily guarded as are all water sources in the Plane of Fire.

Say a Silent Prayer

2011-09-16T11:54:00.000-04:00

The culmination of the past few years, nay, decades, time spent before I was born has gone from a cool heat to a raging burn in such a short period of time! Such are your ways... Oh heavenly bodies, I pray your guidance was not misinterpreted by your subject, and that I did not waste the efforts of generations of these poor people. I came to raise their lot and my own, let us pray that I was guided by my want for the former. Please be with these people in this dark time, if not in the mines within which they slave, then in their hearts so that they may have the strength to reailize the virtuious struggle you invision for them.

Please, lend strength.

Nenia's Awakening

2011-09-13T15:34:00.000-04:00

I have been told I was paralyzed for two years and it feels like I have gone through some sort of cleansing. I have grown up human, lived with humans and shared memories with humans. It must have been some sort of spell – a powerful spell – that cloaked me and shaped me in the way of Man. Alas I now feel whole. Many questions of my past now answered. I am an Eladrin. Free.

Nenia Osik, Level 11

2011-09-13T15:20:00.000-04:00

Eladrin, Wizard (Arcanist), Rimetongue Caller

Build: Illusionist Wizard

Arcane Implement Mastery Option: Staff of Defense

Second Implement Option: Tome of Binding

Inherent Bonuses

Maelstrom (Learn Primordial)

Theme: Order Adept

FINAL ABILITY SCORES

STR 9, CON 18, DEX 16, INT 21, WIS 14, CHA 11

STARTING ABILITY SCORES

STR 8, CON 15, DEX 13, INT 16, WIS 13, CHA 10

AC: 25 Fort: 23 Ref: 24 Will: 26

HP: 68 Surges: 10 Surge Value: 17

TRAINED SKILLS

Acrobatics +13, Arcana +21, History +17, Insight +12,Religion +15

UNTRAINED SKILLS

Athletics +4, Bluff +5, Diplomacy +5, Dungeoneering +7,Endurance +9, Heal +7, Intimidate +5, Nature +7, Perception +7, Stealth +8,Streetwise +5, Thievery +8

POWERS

Basic Attack: Melee Basic Attack

Basic Attack: Ranged Basic Attack

Order Adept Attack: Argent Rain

Eladrin Racial Power: Fey Step

Staff of Defense Power: Staff of Defense

Wizard Utility: Ghost Sound

Wizard Utility: Light

Wizard Utility: Mage Hand

Wizard Utility: Prestidigitation

Wizard Attack 1: Flaming Sphere

Wizard Attack 1: Illusory Ambush

Wizard Attack 1: Scorching Burst

Wizard Attack 1: Grasping Shadows

Wizard Attack 1: Summon Fire Warrior

Wizard Utility 2: Guardian Blades

Wizard Utility 2: Phantasmal Terrain

Wizard Utility 2: Shield

Wizard Attack 3: Icy Rays

Wizard Attack 5: Summon Abyssal Maw

Wizard Attack 5: Stinking Cloud

Wizard Utility 6: Summon Iron Cohort

Wizard Utility 6: Wall of Fog

Wizard Attack 7: Winter's Wrath

Wizard Attack 9: Ice Storm

Wizard Attack 9: Wall of Fire

Wizard Utility 10: Illusory Wall

Wizard Utility 10: Blur

Rimetongue Caller Attack 11: Wall of Winter

FEATS

Level 1: Ritual Caster

Level 1: Armor Proficiency: Leather

Level 2: Improved Defenses

Level 4: Implement Expertise (Staff)

Level 6: Careful Summoner

Level 8: Arcane Fire

Level 10: Wintertouched

Level 11: Second Implement

ITEMS

Spellbook

Make Whole

Wizard's Curtain

Unseen Servant
Tensor's Floating Disc

Arcane Lock

Knock

Banish Illusions

Water's Gift

Ritual Candle (paragon tier)

Enshrouding Candle (heroic tier)

Architect's Staff +2

Elven Battle Leather Armor +2 x1

Cloak of Resistance +2 x1

Staff of Ultimate Defense +1 x1

Tome of Arrest +1

The Imminent Return

2011-08-25T10:26:00.002-04:00

Wow. I can't believe it has been 2 years since we put this campaign on hold. However the adventure will continue very soon.

Look for an update on the current state of the game in the next week.

Origins

2009-08-20T20:36:00.002-04:00

The events of the past week have rattled me to the bone. I am grateful for the poor condition of the Sacrifice and the lack of crew. The work distracts me from the thoughts that now race through my mind. It is these moments of silence when I find myself alone under the night sky that I begin to question myself. I begin to question all that I thought I was.

Unbidden thoughts surface. How did this dragonmark appear on my skin? Is it related to the flash of light from the altar? Who is my father? Is my blood true? Only my mother and Mikhal know the answers to that question and they are both dead. They will give me know answers.

As I look back at the past work I did for House Orien as a courier in Sharn. Did I seek them out or was I manipulated and placed into that position? If my blood is true, does my father watch over me? Hoping against hope that a mark might manifest? That he might reclaim his son?

It matters not to me who my father is, if he is of House Orien or not. The origins of this mark are of know consequence. What matters is the doors they could open up. As I truly do not know who my father is, it can't hurt to attempt to make a claim to the House. My failing is that I know nothing of their workings, or the politics. I must wait for them to come to me. I will allow the crew to do that work for me, to spread the rumours of a new dragonmark. There may be danger in this course of action, but it is worth the risk.

I do not know how House Orien will think of my work, if they do even embrace me as one of their own. I've successfully eliminated two marks and word is the employers in each case were very impressed with the way it was handled. A note from my handler indicates that there is another job waiting for me. My hope is that there is a House Sivis messaging station at the Fist of Onatar where I can receive instructions.

Perhaps my skills could be put to use by House Orien. I should let my handler know of this development, it should allow me to charge more for my assignments. All I know is this mark is my ticket out of poverty, out of the lower caste and I embrace that!

Recap #27 - Things heat up with Kristoff

2009-08-09T13:01:00.004-04:00

2 Vult

The party carefully descended the stairs within the shrine. As their eyes adjusted to the dim light they could see what looked like a balcony 20 feet up and around most of the pew area where they stood. A stair to the right lead up to the balcony. Hearing very little sound the party moved forward. Nenia decided to move up the stairs first and was greeted by the charges of an elf and a dwarf. From there noise erupted from most of the balcony.
Two beholders and an elf wizard appeared at the edge of the balcony. The beholders attempted to blast the party with eye rays while the wizard dropped a wall of fire upon the stairs effectively splitting the party and blocking escape.
All three of the humanoids had glazed eyes as if they had been driven mad.
Unable to climb the wall, Ethan swung a pew against the wall and used as a ladder. He then moved to engage the wizard. Meanwhile Sterling moved up the stair to assist Nenia as she fell to the swords of her attackers. Braddoc used his "Come and Get It" power to to great effect and pulled the beholders down to him. Meanwhile Delian tried to climb the pew-ladder to no effect.
Sterling was able to heal Nenia and get her back in the fight. He then tried to draw her attackers away. Braddoc was able to pin down one of the beholders while the other slowly made its way back up to the balcony. Sterling was subsequently knocked unconscious before Delian bolstered him up.
As Ethan was fighting the wizard he noticed that one of the beholder's eyes was always following the wizard's motions. He quickly surmised that the beholder was somehow controlling the wizard and called for everyone to focus on the beholders.
Although Ethan's tactic was not followed by all it turned out to be the correct plan. As the first beholder fell the three humanoids were stunned for a few seconds. When the second beholder feel soon after, their thralls fell unconscious to the ground.
After the party tied up their captives they took a short rest. They then awoke the wizard to find that he was none other than Kristoff! Although his mind was muddled he was able to confirm his identity and give the party a bit of information regarding the shrine they were in.
He informed them that the shrine was tied to the seal in the valley. Dragonborn sent pilgrimages here to perform a ritual that strengthened the seal. He was not sure what it entailed. He also recalled the a very large beholder and a skeletal dragon in his nightmares. The last thing he mentioned was that the Phoenix item was not actually a sceptre. He had not been able to ascertain its exact form but he was sure it would be obvious to any who saw it as it was very powerful. He then said he would watch the entrance for the party as they ventured further in. He asked that the elf and dwarf remain tied up as he did not know who they were and could not vouch for their intentions. The party agreed to his requests.
Farther into the dungeon the PCs found a 10 foot deep chasm filled with glowing purple fog. The way forward was 15 feet across the fog and 10 feet up a natural cave wall. Not wanting to enter the fog the party handed a rope to Ethan who attempted to leap the chasm. He was unable to grasp the top of the far cliff face but managed to hang on to the wall and climb up. He secured the rope to a far wall and Sterling did he same down below. Then the party attemped to cross the rope line.
Sterling and Nenia made it but Braddoc and Delian fell into the pit. The noxious gas of chaos caused him to lose a healing surge. With the assistance of some rope from the party they were able to climb up out of the gas.
The hallway from where they stood was backdropped by a shaft of light at the far end. It created a silhouette of a large altar surrounded by what looked to be dragon heads. They could also make out a large pile of bones.
The bones ended up being a dracolich. As it moved into the hall to engage the party a grell joined the fray. Using some solid tactics the party was able to keep the dracolich dazed and unable to use its full fury upon them.
One thing of note was that the five dragon heads surrounding the large altar began glowing purple as the fight progressed.
Once it was reduced to a pile of bones the grell fled up the shaft in the ceiling. It called out some words as it disappeared up the shaft that Nenia determined was the end of a ritual.
As the grell's words trailed off a beam of purple light shot toward the back of the room, hit a mirror and shot up the shaft. The grell fell back down the shaft dead.
A blinding flash of light then stunned the entire party momentarily. When they regained their senses they discovered they had all manifested Dragonmarks and a door had opened to the west. They also regained 2 healing surges and heard the following words in their heads:

When bones are laid to rest once more and chaos relinquishes the seal
Destinies are written upon the five who tread the valley
The ringed prize is won but the priestess’ curse falls upon the innocent
The fire moons greatest strength brings about her final release
Her vengeance upon the land will be terrible
But the Shadow in the Flame will eclipse her fury
Not until fire adorns the sacrifice will the Five's fury be drowned
And Flame's Shadow will be returned to its slumber
The hallway led to a T junction. To the left was an ancient, undisturbed ruin containing nothing but rotted manuscript. Nenia found words pertaining to the seal and about something named Tiamat. It mentioned sacrifices of blood to strengthen the seal.
The hallway right ended in a doorway to a room containing a teleportation circle. After a few moments consideration the party stepped through.

Recap #26 - Picking through the Boneyard

2009-08-09T07:44:00.003-04:00

2 Vult

The party was dropped off an hour before dawn outside the valley known as the Boneyard. They proceeded on foot trying to keep a low profile. As they entered the valley they were amazed by the sheer numbers of skelatal remains protruded through the grass and light shrubs. They decided to follow the path leading along the valley floor.
A couple hours later the path entered a clearing containing something they had not seen before. Upon the ground was a large stone slab - approximately 40 feet in diameter. It was surrounded by 3 small round altar-like pedestals. Upon closer inspection they noticed runes scribed around the outside of all 4 structures. Although they were unable to determine exactly what the runes said they were able to discern that it was a seal of some sort. In addition the large surface was marked with the symbol of Dolurrh while the top face of each smaller altar bore the symbol of Xoriat.
From this point the path veered up to the left toward the mountain face. The party had followed it only a short way when they heard an eerie call ahead of them. They formed up a defensive order and proceeded forward. They had just rounded a small corner in the path when they were attacked by five tentacled creatures. They quickly dispatched 3 of the 5. The others fled into the shrubs while making frantic screeching sounds. A few moments later they learned that the creatures were calling for assistance.

Now the party was surrounded by masses of gricks. In addition 4 destrachans and a very large grick were attracted to the sounds of chaos. Nenia's use of her firewall devastated several of the gricks and created a covering wall. Meanwhile the rest of the party made quick work of the smaller creatures. Things were just looking under control when a hideous creatures with multiple mouths burst through the ground in the midst of the party. A dangerous squamous maw was looking to feed.
Using its blast attack to deadly effect it nearly got the best of Nenia. Ethan was able to avoid the bulk of its blasts and kept the grick alpha from harrying the party too much. Finally the party was able to force the beasts into Nenia's firewall and then dispatch them.
Sorely hurt and shaken the party too a few moments to rest. During that time they noticed the remains of caravan wagons a little farther up along the trail. Moving carefully they were able to search the wreckage but found nothing of note except the skeletal remains of many humanoids. They concluded that this was what remained of Kristoff's entourage and continued up the path until they came to a set of stone doors. Braddoc surmised that they were thousands of years old. One of them was propped open so the party entered.

In front of them a set of stairs dropped 20 feet into an area containing a half dozen rotten wooden pews.

Due to several computer issues this is all we accomplished that night.

Recap #25 - Andred's Report

2009-08-08T01:36:00.003-04:00

2 Vult
Andred Wormblade scanned his carefully written report. He had received the report request this morning. That meant the pouch he'd purchased and sent her from Sharn had finally arrived in Lakeview. The set had come at a steep price but it would make contact with his benefactor that much easier. He shook his head and focused on the task at hand. Alara did not pay him for amateur work. More importantly a historian of his caliber didn't omit important details. He knew that the actions of the Clifftoppers had the potential to alter the course of history in ways they couldn't imagine yet and he considered himself to be their witness. He started at the top once again. His eyes caught the major points of the journey since Sharn as he skimmed the writing and mentally recalled his travels.

They had left Sharn on the 21st of Sypheros. Two days later they had made an abrupt stop over a remote forested area East of Delver's Dale. The party had disembarked for a day. When they returned they bore new treasures. Even more impressive than that was the fact that he almost saw the hint of a smile upon the warforged face. He'd never thought it possible. Nenia informed him that the party had dispatched a Green Dragon. He research later told him the creature had been none other than Razcoreth. Andred recalled his previous dealings with the warlock dragon. He would not be missed.

Two days later they had landed in Flamekeep and spent two days talking to Thelio and some madman in the Houses of Healing. While dealing with the broken man had been unpleasant it had been fruitful. The ravings had supported Andred's research of the Boneyard. Even the state of the man confirmed that Xoriat was involved somehow. It gave credence to the rumors of the Xoriat manifest zone.

On the 6th of Aryth they had departed Flamekeep and spent the better part of a week flying to a settlement in Q'barra quaintly named Hope. During this time Andred had spent many hours with Nenia pouring over books and records trying to narrow their upcoming search of the jungle. He knew from his research in Newthrone many years ago that the jungles of Q'barra were an extremely dangerous and foreboding place. Death came quickly to the unprepared. Andred had been impressed when Nenia has stumbled upon a small note on one of the scrolls that indicated the general area they were looking for. he was sure it had saved them weeks of searching.

Even with this new information it had still been a week of waiting in Hope for the signal from the party that indicated they wanted the airship to pick them up. With the help of a Genasi Druid named Cur-ri they had destroyed a cult of Yuan-ti worshippers and obtained the Symbol of Fire. If the story was not embellished it was seem that the young human lad had actually tied a rope around his ankles and leapt into a flooding pit containing a Yuan-Ti Anathema! However when I pressed them on what had become of such a dangerous creature none of them could say. The holy warrior Delian looked particularly disturbed about that detail. My instincts tell me that the area there has become even more dangerous. Regardless, we got what we came for. The jungle can look out for itself.

They party has entrusted me with safeguarding the Symbol of Fire until I can perform the ritual in Onatar so I spent the next two days studying it and recording every detail I find. For two days after plucking the group from the jungle I was able to do so in peace. However as we neared the Boneyard we were attacked by Halflings of the Talenta Plains. They have learned much since they declared their independence. Incredibly they have mastered the use of kegs that burst into flame when dropped. With them they were able to crash our ship into the side of an ancient temple in the foothills of the Endworld Mountains. Many of the crew were lost in the battle and the crash landing. I am amazed that I have survived to make this report. However it turned out that our predicament was about to get much worse. It turned out that the temple - which is older than many I have seen - is considered to be a holy place to the Halfling tribes. To make matters worse it was also being held by a horde of creatures we know as witherlings. There must have been a great battle here at some point in history to account for the magic required to create such sheer numbers of the beasts.

Being caught between an advancing army of Halflings and hordes of Witherlings we wisely chose to hide. Somehow we ended up above the temple and the dwarf Braddoc released a devastating landslide of rock and rubble upon the battle in front of the temple. Luckily the Witherlings caught the brunt of that maneuver and the Halflings offered us quarter in exchange for the assistance we inadvertently granted them. In the nine days that followed we were able to repair the ship to its present condition. During our repair time we were honoured with the presence of Holy Uldra. The party did not share my enthusiasm though. We barely convinced her to grant us permission to enter the Boneyard in search of Kristoff's fate. She also spoke of some curse upon us and the lands if we removed any items from the valley. I hope to someday get a chance to sit down and record the histories locked within the mind of Holy Uldra. It would be a shame for our libraries to one day lose such a valuable source of information.

We now sit within the airship hovering over the mouth of the valley know as the Boneyard. It is an hour before dawn and we have just dropped the Clifftoppers off. It seems they wish to move in on foot in order to avoid any denizens spotting the ship in the air. Only history will tell us whether they find Kristoff or simply meet the same fate as his caravan.

Andred carefully reordered the stack of paper on his desk and counted them once again. Seventeen pages of details, diagrams, and commentary were ready for Alara's study. He rolled the sheets together and pressed his wax seal on the outside. He then waved his hand over the seal and murmured the words that would leave his arcane mark ensuring that Alara knew the words to be his. Placing his findings within the mate of Alara's pouch he closed the flap. It took only a moment for a slight warmth to fill the bag and he knew she had taken the letter from her own pouch. The ship shuddered slightly. He sighed as he repositioned the ritual components on the floor. The airship wasn't nearly as steady as it used to be. But that was understandable considering the damage it had taken in the previous couple of weeks. History predicted that Alara would have words for him to pass along to the group. He reached into his bag and withdrew a tome he had been studying. He may as well pass the time constructively.

Intentions

2009-04-18T18:57:00.007-04:00

Ethan sat in the guild masters office marvelling at the many trophies that adorned the walls. The dragon's tooth and basilisk's eye being two of the dominant items in the room. His admiration for Master Dourstone was interrupted by the entrance of Ragnolin himself. Dressed in his normal attire the stout dwarf eased into an arm chair across from the rogue.

The dwarf looked across at Ethan and after some time spoke "So you wanted to meet boy?"

"I did Master Dourstone. As you requested in your note I've obtained the item you desired. None are aware that I have it, much less who it is for." With that said Ethan passed a small parcel over to Ragnolin. The dwarf cradled the parcel in his arms loving for a moment and then carefully laid it aside, his eyes had a strange gleam to them.

"Thank you for this Ethan, I shan't forget this favour."

"It is I who should thank you Master Dourstone, you provided for me when no other would. For that I am in your debt."

A silence fell upon the room and both men were content to endure it for a time. Finally, Ragnolin spoke "I assume there is something else you wish to discuss?"

"There is master," Ethan replied with a serious expression.

"A weighty matter is it, this calls for a drink then." Reaching into his personal cupboard Ragnolin drew out a bottle of Karrnathi Whisky, often known as liquid fire for how it burned the throat as it was drunk and then warmed the body afterwards. Pouring two glasses he passed one to Ethan and raised it in a toast, "To the glorious dead, to the living who will follow and to us. May we live forever."

Drinking deeply the two men regarded one another anew.

"Master, I come before you seeking counsel and requesting aid." Ethan took another drink before continuing. "In this time that I have been serving the guild and travelling I have experienced things beyond my understanding. I have learned and I have grown. Lately, I have feared that which I saw in myself. Killing comes to easily to me Master and I enjoy it too much. I lie awake at night afraid to sleep, fearing I might wake more terrible, more ruthless than before.

"In my time at Lakeview with Alara, I came to realize that perhaps I could harness this ability, the ruthless desire to kill. I thought on it deeply and consulted with Mistress Alara on it. I have come to realize that I am destined to walk the path of the assassin. I would choose this path willingly, though I know it borders on evil. However, I do not want this choice to be my ouster from the guild. So I seek your blessing on what I choose to embark upon.

"Further, I would ask that you or one that you trust be agent to my services. That those I might strike down be evil men. I would know your thoughts on this."

Ragnolin sat across from the rogue for a long time before answering. It seems the missive from Alara was correct and the once innocent boy was choosing to walk a dark path. Oh he knew of evil and evil men, but he always seemed to rise above it. "What have I done to him?" Ragnolin wondered to himself. "I hope that damnable Alara did not have something to do with this." Finally he spoke, "Know this Ethan, I cannot counsel you on this path. It is your own to walk and only you know the right of it. I believe you to be an upright and honourable man. I do not see evil in you, in fact I see much good."

"Should you decide to walk the dark road of the assassin you will not have my blessing. However, neither will I have you removed from this hall for making it. For as I said, I see much good in you. Nor will I act as agent on your behalf, however I know of one who can. Long has he been a friend to me and I trust his discretion." Ragnolin reached into the folds of his surcoat and withdrew a sheet of parchment and a quill. He wrote down a name and handed the sheet to Ethan. "This man makes a living by remaining anonymous, but I can arrange an introduction in time."

"Thank you for your words Master Dourstone, I appreciate your candour. One final thing, if you could keep this discussion from the others. I don't know what they would think of this decision. In time I'm sure things will become apparent to them and I will advise them of my decision in due course."

Meetings

2009-04-18T18:46:00.004-04:00

Ethan walked into the common room of the Clifftop Adventurer's Guild hall, his eyes quickly scanning the room. He took in the faces both new and old, searching for the one who didn't belong. Finding her quickly he crossed the room and sat across from the girl. She was attractive, bearing the striking looks of his mother. Smiling he took her hand, glad for her safety.

"You look like mother" he commented, "I'm glad Larien was able to rescue you."

The girl blushed, unsure what to say. Tears rose up in her eyes and she began to sob, fear shaking her body.

With a sigh Ethan took her by the shoulders, "I know you don't know me, nor do you have reason to trust me. This place isn't right for you, you need a change of scenery, something to take away the dark memories. I have arranged transport for you to a town called Lakeview. A women by the name of Alara will find you a place to stay. Give her this letter when you arrive. Take care sister."

With that Ethan gave his sister a kiss on the brow, rising quickly he left the room lest others see the tears forming in his own eyes.

Quick Overview of Some Lands

2009-04-11T10:04:00.002-04:00

Assume your characters know the following. Anything else you'd need to research a bit. Mostly this is here just to get your brains in the game and make some decisions on next steps.

Q'Barra
Lying on the eastern front of the Endwall Mountains and the long expanse of The Dragonreach it is easy to see why Q'barra remained untouched by civilized settlements for so long. The steamy jungles and sprawling swamplands that encompasses most of the landscape is a perfect habitat for dire and horrid animals as well as dinosaurs. The small shard of land is not completely inhospitable, however, as a small strip of fertile land lies in the southeast and other open expanses peel away from the jungle in places around the country.

The Bone Yard
The Boneyard is an area in the Talenta Plains filled with many skeletons of dragons. The halfling clans of the Plains consider the place to be cursed and will not willingly enter it. It is extremely ancient and may date from the Demon Wars. Filled with all manner of aberrations, it seems to lie atop a Xoriat manifest zone.

Fist of Onatar
The Fist of Onatar is the name of a volcano in the city of Mroranonhold in the Mror Holds.
The dwarves of the clan protect the site and think that it is a sacred place tied to Onatar, god of fire and the forge. The volcano radiates magical energy, which some Aundairian scholars believe is the result of powerful dragonshards beneath the lava.

Meanwhile, Back at the Guildhall...

2009-04-10T12:57:00.007-04:00

8 Sypheros - 999YK

Clifftop Adventurer's Guild

"It is good to see you all again. A toast to safe travels."

Ragnolin raised his mug and drained it to the bottom. Without a signal the barkeep set down a fresh ale and cleared the empty. The entire guildhouse had been closed for the afternoon for this meeting. The barkeep was happy to have something to do aside from restocking his wares.

"Thank you for taking the time to bring me to speed on your adventures. I know you were tired when you arrived two days ago but I needed that time to act on your words. I must give you my utmost thanks and respect for acting the way you have since you left. As members of the guild you have were not bound to follow through with Jaryn or any other portion of the Phoenix Regalia situation. Your actions have not gone unnoticed. It is time some of your questions surrounding the whole situation are answered. After that I have some further news for you that you may or may not wish to act upon. Siberys knows your earned a rest."

With that Ragnolin signaled to the barkeep who then led an elf from the backroom. His eyes gave away his old age but his body looked as strong and spry as any warrior elf. His frame was covered in a flowing green and brown cloak. As he approached Ragnolin spoke.

"Gentlemen, this is Kal'ser. It was he who hired Kartenix and his group in the first place. He is here to fill in some of the gaps to this point."

Before he said anything Kal'ser took a moment to shake everyone's hand. "You have my deepest gratitude for all you have done. Even the loss of the items in question to that fiend Skamos has not been for naught. However, before I go further I wish to offer some recompense for your efforts." He reached into his cloak and produced a bag. The unmistakable sound for gold pieces filled the area as he set it upon the table. "In it you will find 1000 gold pieces and 5 jade worth 100 gold each. I trust this covers your fee."

He took a moment to look at the people sitting around the table.

"Please take no offense when I say that I will now tell you all I can. Nothing more. The words I utter are all I am allowed to say. Even I have an employer. I have sworn oaths in his service that nothing can make me break. Let me begin."

"The Order I belong to is sworn to keeping the items of the Phoenix Regalia safe - and separated. As you already know, their powers of the wearer increase as more and more of the items are wielded. So much so that they can stave off death itself through rebirth."

"Nearly twenty years ago we learned that our Order had been infiltrated and the secret of each item's location had been compromised. Almost immediately our members began to disappear or turn up dead. We were being systematically eradicated. Now only I remain in the service of my master. We have become extremely secretive and usually employ individuals such as yourselves when our small numbers preclude our ability to act."

"With our numbers dropping we were unable to defend the items. Each was eventually stolen and taken to a variety of locales. We lost track of some for a time before they resurfaced somewhere else. Each was stolen and restolen."

"As you well know the first item was reobtained from a Mezzodemon by Kartenix and his group. I hired them to do so. How they accomplished the task I still have no idea. However they must have been followed since each was assassinated before returning to Sharn. Had I known that danger would follow them after they retrieved the item I would have met them in Flamekeep."

"The second happened to be in the possession of the hobgoblin Sinruth. From your report and my investigations I don't believe he actually knew of the power of the item he possessed."

"Of course someone else did. The tiefling Skamos has been tied up in all of this. He has murdered your comrades. Dogged your trail and committed an untold numbers of evils in his pursuit of the items. I can not seem to determine his motives but I do believe he is in the employ of someone much more powerful who seeks the items for themselves."

"We think we have located the last two items. The Cloak of Flames resides in Fernia. Retrieving it will be no small matter. Who knows what guards it now. The final item - the Mace of the Phoenix - is known to lie in The Boneyard in the Eastern Talenta Plains. I hired Kristoff - Jaryn's wizard acquaintance - to look into it for me. I have not heard from him in quite some time. I fear the worst."

Ragnolin interrupted "I have news on that when you are done Kal'ser."

The elf nodded "I am nearly through. I know not who it trying to reassemble these items but I fear their purpose. There is too much power involved for me to believe it is for any good purpose. Not to mention the murders that have already taken place simply to retrieve two of the items. That is all I will say until I hear Ragnolin's news."

Ragnolin took a long draft of his ale, pulled a letter from his pocket and spoke. "I received a note only this morning from someone claiming to be Kristoff's aid. It bears his seal. You may read it but it is brief. He beseeches assistance on Kristoff's aid. He claims that they did indeed locate the mace but its owner's servants overcame the caravan and killed nearly all its people. The Boneyard is now home to some malevolence that commands even the undead. Somehow it turned Kristoff's mind. He is now a servant to whatever the beast is. And - most importantly - it has the Mace of the Phoenix in its control."

A moment of silence went by as Ragnolin looked upon Kal'ser. Finally the elf spoke. "This is grave news indeed. I will now extend an offer of employment to you all for the safe return of Kristoff and - more importantly - the Mace of the Phoenix. You will be paid handsomely. What say you?"

We've got a flying machine!

2009-04-10T09:18:00.004-04:00

Alara's Meeting Room - 25 Nymm
It never ceased to amaze Telios how Alara's garments effortlessly accentuated her body no matter how she moved. Today was no different. Her usual flowing black dress drew the eye as she entered the meeting room. With a small smile she addressed the minotaur and dragonborn who waited for her.

"Welcome back Telios. Andred. Was your journey to Arcanix fruitful?"

Telios nodded and Andred spoke. "It was. Great histories are recorded within the tomes of the floating city. Of import to your request we found that unless the Clifftop members wish to wait until Fernia is coterminous in two years, their best option is to perform a ritual of planar travel in Onatar."

Alara turned to look out the eastern window of the room. The morning sun streamed on her face. She remained silent for a moment. Andred felt that she was almost trying to see the volcano located within the Mror Holds. Alara turned.

"My experience with the dwarves of the Holds has not been good. They hold old grudges with Karrnath and my service to that nation places me in a difficult diplomatic position. Our guests will have to figure a way into the volcanic city on their own. I hope they aren't expecting a welcoming party." She paused. "And what of the Symbol of Fire you mentioned before? Is it definitely required for the ritual?"

Andred nodded. "It is. However they are not easy to come by. It was a difficult topic to research. In fact my original lead in the Demon Wastes turned out to be false. I found reports of a changeling by the name of Dox who came into possession of that symbol after duping its previous owners of their prize. It is hardly a wonder that he can not be found what with angry rakshasas after him now." Andred smiled at the wonder of it.

He continued. "I had nearly given up hope that Arcanix could help us when I came upon a record of an adventuring party that had passed through Qbarra. A small passage of the text talked of snaketongue cultists in an ancient temple deep in the jungle. This particular cult seemed to have a particular affinity for fire - as did it's Yuan-ti master. They sent in their rogue to infiltrate temple. As the cult did not possess the particular item they were seeking at the time, the party left the cult alone and moved on. However the rogue did mention in his reconnaissance report that a fiery symbol hung within the central chamber of the temple. The description matches that of what we need for our ritual. Perhaps we can persuade the cult to part with the item."

Alara smiled and spoke. "So if the party wishes to obtain the Cloak of Flames which we think lies within Fernia then they must first seek out this symbol of fire which we think is in the possession of a cult of Yuan-ti worshippers somewhere in the bowels of Qbarra's jungles. Then they must somehow convince the dwarves of Onatar that they must perform a ritual of great power within their domain? Do I have that summarized correctly?"

Andred thought a moment. "An accurate interpretation M'lady. There is one other concern of course."

"Of course." Alara concluded. "Do they have the ability to perform the ritual? Nenia has a natural command of the arcane. I am not so sure she possesses the necessary control yet however. That is yet another bridge they have to cross."

She looked up as Andred spoke.

"But I do. I could go along with them if they wished. I can research aboard the airship you retained as well as here. It will also give me a chance to set some conflicting historical records straight as they dirty their hands with their tasks. I can speak with local leaders and sages. If - I mean when - they accomplish their goals I can perform the ritual to send them to Fernia. It is a win-win situation as they say."

Alara thought for a few moments. "If that is your wish. It is their choice however."

She turned to her skeletal servant. "Tibia, fetch our guests. It is time Andred repeats all this information to them."

Telios shifted his weight on his hooves. He was glad Andred hadn't tried to include him in his grand travel plans.

Revenge

2009-04-03T22:29:00.003-04:00

Mikal waited in the alley. The ranger would appear soon. She had kept to the same habits for weeks and now it was going to cost her life. Since the daring raid that liberated the girl, the sister of that miscreant Ethan. Mikal still bore the scars from their last encounter and for that he wanted the rogue to pay and pay dearly. Mikal had made a vow to kill everyone that was close to the Ethan, to make them pay and to ensure they knew why it was they were about to die.

Like clockwork the ranger Larien walked by the alley. With lighting accuracy Mikal tossed a dagger which dropped the ranger prone and slid her into the alley. Looming over her the halfling slammed his fists into the rangers prone body. With a laugh Mikal taunted Larien. "You know why you're going to die girl? It's because you choose poor friends, that's..." Mikal's voice cut off as a groan escaped his lips.

Stumbling to the ground Mikal looked at the figure standing above him. A familiar face leaned forward as a dagger plunged into his heart.

Turning from the dead halfling Ethan helped Larien to her feet. "I told you I had your back Larien, let's get you home now." Together the two friends made their way back to the Clifftop Guild.

Hidden in an alley across the way a hidden figure nodded silently to himself. So the rumours were true, Ethan Dalruun had returned to Sharn. The figure moved quickly, there would be others who would want to act on the information quickly.

The next morning Ethan found himself returning to old habits from a life time ago. While running through the Clifftop district a figure stepped in front of Ethan. Removing his hood a human stood before him. "Ethan Dalruun, Cavallah of the Cogs wishes to meet with you. He is aware of the death of Mikal of the Boramear's and knows of your involvement in Xandrar. I will await your answer outside the Clifftop Guild in two hours time." With that the man turned and walked away.

Puzzled Ethan continued his run. Returning to the guild he quickly equipped himself and left a note with the barkeep Tharuk. Stepping out of the guild hall Ethan quickly located the mysterious human. "Take me to Cavallah, I am anxious to meet with such a well connected individual." Ethan smiled, it had been some time since he ventured down to the Cogs.

Recap #24 - Lo! A Beholder!

2009-04-03T17:02:00.004-04:00

19 Nymm - 999 YK

As the Eidolon was about to bring it's massive fist down upon Ethan's skull it suddenly turned it's head, looked at the Eastern tunnel entrance, and said "Invader's approach." It then stepped into position in front of the Northern doors and tok a guardian stance.
From the Eastern hallway emerged several strange creatures with skin where their eyes should have been as well as a mindflayer and a female drow. Since the Eidolon seemed content to guard the sealed doors the party turned their attention to the newcomers.
While the priestess focused her deadly magics on Nenia, the mindflayer attempted to latch onto her. At one point it was successful. However Braddoc quickly freed her by taunting his enemies with "Come and get it!". The blind creatures quickly succumbed to area magics but the party was dismayed when a second drow appeared from nowhere and caused grief for Ethan and Delian. Sterling's solid presence in the midst of the battle enabled the party to maneuver throughout their foes and the majority of the creatures were dispatched. Even the Drow priestess was defeated as she tried to make a calculated retreat.
With a quick lull in the battle the NPCs took the opportunity to beseech the Eidolon once more. This time they were able to convince the construct they meant no harm. Still wary, the creature was a little more forthcoming with information regarding the temple they were in:

- The eidolon has no name. It was created by Ixthul in the service of Aureon.
- The temple was a holy place where a great weapon against the forces of chaos has been stored against a time when it will be needed again.
- The ediolon does not have any way to mark the passage of time, and considers such concepts irrelevant to its purpose, so it does not know how long it has been there.
- The eidolon does not have the ability to open the doors, which are warded by powerful rituals. The Harbingers of Ixthul have the only knowledge of how to unseal the doors.
- Ixthul himself placed the eidolon there to guard this chamber against intruders who might try to tamper with the artifact.
In exchange for their sworn promise to keep the location of the temple a secret, the eidolon opened a secret compartment and presented the party with a glowstone and a jolt flask.
The party also found a key, 600 gp and a pair of sending stones on the drow priestess.

20 Nymm - 999 YK

Exhausted from the day's spelunking, the party decided to take an extended rest in the temple. However in the 6th hour of their stay the eidolon awoke the party with a warning of impending danger.
From the Western tunnel emerged a horrendous floating beast with tentacle eyes - a mighty beholder!
With a shout an a warning not to hold back on the beast the eidolon moved forward and set up a stance which granted great boons to its new allies - extra damage seemed to flow from the party and they seemed immune to any fear. The effect surely turned the tide of the battle.
Even though it blasted the party repeatedly with its eye rays and attempted to move the PCs into a group for a devastating area attack the abberant beast was quickly forced into a corner. A war of attrition ensued and the creature was destroyed.
The eidolon advised the party that such attacks would surely continue if the source of entry for the creatures was not found and rendered unusable. He also begged that the tunnels leading to the temple be caved in as the PCs exited. Realizing that the construct would never leave this place they reluctantly agreed and said farewell to the faithful guardian.
Taking the Eastern tunnel Delian discovered that the key they had found on the priestess opened the magically sealed door in the chamber of 3 doors they had passed through earlier. Evidently it was a passage that allowed a traveller to bypass the chasm trial.
With the dwarvish knowledge that Braddoc possessed the party was able to collapse the tunnel to the temple. They also were able to disable the summoning portal they had found in the storeroom.
Eventually they exited the complex and returned to Alara and made a report. They were careful to avoid any mention of the eidolon but Delian slipped up once when he asked Alara about the golden Ixthul robe that Ethan possessed. Intrigued, Alara declared she would have Andred look into this lead if only to confirm that the threat to the town was over.
The townsfolk were overjoyed when they learned that the PCs had stopped the source of the ogre attacks. Old Jaeck - the smith - agreed to create a silver brooch for each party member in whatever design they wished. In addition, the party members now receive a +2 to any social skill check made when dealing with the locals.
A week later Andred and Telios returned from Arcanix to report to Alara regarding their findings on travel to Fernia. Later that day the party was summoned to a meeting with Alara.

Ethan and Alara

2009-04-02T23:43:00.002-04:00

The room was brightly lit. Sunlight streamed in through the window, the thick curtains uncustomarily parted. Ethan sat in a high backed leather arm chair. His hands placed on the arm rests as he waited for his host to join him. The wait wasn't long and soon Alara joined him. "You wanted to speak with me?" the wizard inquired.

"I did m'lady. I had a request of you, though I hope I am not wasting your time."

"Of course not Ethan, and please drop the m'lady. Alara will do."

"Yes, of course m... Alara. The Hobgoblin Sinruth that my colleagues and I brought to Lakeview. I.. I owe him a debt. I once made a promise to him and though that promise was made with less than honourable intentions I've learned that perhaps I should be more careful. I seek to release Sinruth from prison here in Lakeview, however I don't wish to cause you trouble or embarrassment to your people."

"An interesting request and I will have to deny it. Sinruth has already been released from prison, however I will convey your wishes to him."

"Thank you Alara." Ethan made to leave, then stopped.

"There is something else isn't there Ethan?" A small smile appeared on Alara's lips, disappearing as quickly as it arrived.

Ethan leaned back in his chair, squeezing his eyes shut his mind began to race. After a few moments a smile appeared on his face, opening his eyes he began to speak. "There is, while in the dungeon I came across a note. It indicated I, or my companions and I, had passed the first test and were now Harbingers of Ixthul."

Alara laughed, "finding a note does make you a member of an order Ethan."

"Of course note m'lady... I just... it doesn't matter."

"No Ethan it doesn't, now why don't we discuss what you really came here for."

Ethan smiled again, "Yes of course. I have observed you, you have an mastery of the dark arts and a knowledge of death. I find that this fascinates and terrifies me at the same time. I have come to realize while journeying with my companions that I delight in the ability to deal death to my foes. I fear that if I don't take control of this urge that it will consume and ultimately destroy me. I feel that I need to focus my ability and I feel that the path of the assassin is what is best suited towards this task.

"I don't know why I tell you this. Only that I think you may understand where I am coming from and perhaps you can provide me with some guidance."

"Ethan, your path is your own. If you embrace the life of the assassin then there is one you must slay first. You know of whom I speak Ethan. Finish what you started and you will have begun your journey."

Recap #23 - Something Foul is Afoot

2009-04-01T20:29:00.004-04:00

19 Nymm, 999YK

Ethan deftly climbed down the hole in the floor and confirmed that the coast was clear. The party found themselves in a long natural tunnel that declined steadily into the darkness. There was no sign of who had left the ladder and the rope.
Striking a sunrod the party followed the tunnel. After perhaps 1000 feet it took a sharp turn to the North. (Thank goodness for dwarven directions!) Ethan ordered the sunrod hidden and proceeded to scout around the corner. From the echoes ahead Ethan surmised they were entering a large chamber. He was correct. After a few moments of waiting in the darkness Ethan signaled for his comrades to move forward. He deemed the coast to be clear. He was wrong.
A bellow from somewhere ahead and to the right brought the party to arms. Nenia threw a light spell into the chamber just as Ethan was blindsided by a creature he had never seen the likes of. It clawed his face and somehow attacked his mind. Quickly the rest of the party was set upon by two more of the creatures and a hulking beast of obviously the same descent.
The party charged forward to assist the rogue. It took several seconds for them to realize that there was another monster hiding up to the left in a small alcove. It was firing magic into the fray and somehow seemed to be bolstering its allies.
Assuming that the large hulking mass was the major threat the PCs set upon it. However looks deceived them. The brute - while formidable - was merely the front line defense for the caster.
After a brief but fierce fight the party bested the 4 monsters in the main chamber and turned their attention to the magic attacks. They then learned that their foe was trying to guard a hole in the floor of the alcove - and was doing so to great effect! However it was no match for the combined efforts of the 5 adventurers.
Searching the corpses reveiled that the caster was carrying some Boots of Eagerness which Delian claimed as his own.
After a brief rest the party descended a ladder propped against the wall of the gaping pit. They once again found themselves in a natural tunnel leading even further down into the earth. After 30 minutes of climbing the party arrived into a room that had obviously been hollowed out of a large cavern. They were surprised to find vast quantities of weapons, armour, and other stores stacked throughout the room. Sterling figured it was enough gear to equip an army of hundreds. In the centre of the room a large symbol was etched into the floor. Delian and Nenia detemined it was some sort of teleporation circle tied to the plane of Xoriat! They also figured that it had to be activated by a ritual on this plane.
Not wanting to spend much time here in case more enemies arrived the party took 10 minutes quickly searching different areas in the room. They were able to find a large amount of gold and several valuable gems in the stores. Quickly they pocketed their find and moved into a tunnel on the far end of the chamber.
After a few hundred feet the tunnel abruptly changed. Instead of rough, natural surfaces they found themselves entering a room that had been carefully carved from the stone. Despite a thick layer of dust and dirt they could see that beautiful stonework had been defaced in several places. It was clear that this place had a special purpose. In the far wall were 3 stone doorways.
The first had a strange device inset with a multitude of cubic stone sections that could be pushed, pulled and slide in different directions. The middle door was open and led into a dark tunnel. While once again natural, the surfaces of the tunnel had been smoothed in several places to make travel easier. The last door was magically sealed. Even though a semi-circle of dust and debris on the floor indicated that the door had recently been opened, no amount of coaxing could reveal what lay beyond.
Figuring the mechanical device was a trap, the party opted to follow the tunnel through the open door. After a few hundred feet the party came upon a rickety wooden rope-bridge that crossed a seemingly bottomless pit. Near the centre of the bridge hung a chain which could be used to swing off the bridge to a column of rock about 30 feet East in the chasm. Upon the column sat a chest.
Tying a rope around himself, Ethan moved to the centre of the bridge with the intention of swinging to the column. He was met with two skittering spider swarms who enveloped the rogue. Luckily his friends had the wherewithall to haul him back via the rope. From there it was a small matter to clean up the vermin and the two dire stirges that emerged from the darkness.
Withthe coast seemingly clear Ethan made a second attempt. However the usually deft rogue somehow fell short of the column and fell into the balckness below. Luckily for him the chasm was covered in an illusion and he only fell 30 feet into some water. A couple of climb checks put him on top of the column where he found a golden robe, some potions, and a note that read:

Congratulations for passing this test of courage and strength. You are hereby promoted tot he first rank of the Harbingers of Ixthul. The next step in your training as a holy warrior begins now.

Ethan then swung back across the chasm to the bridge and the party continued along the tunnel on the far side. It was not long before they reached a ornate chamber supported by 4 pillars and decorated with carved griffon heads. On the East side of the chamber was another tunnel. On the North end was a large set of double doors. In front of the doors stood a motionless Eidolon with a griffon's head carved into it's chest.
When the party carefully approached the construct asked "Who approaches and why have you entered this sacred place?"
The NPCs attempted to convince the Eidolon that they meant no harm and were in fact allies. However the guardian seemed unconvinced and turned hostile when Braddoc attempted to intimidate it.
The session ended with the raising its might fist in an attempt to smash the skull of the nearest party member.

Treasure

2009-03-23T08:03:00.009-04:00

May 17, 2009

Here's a summary of what was found in the sunken temple last night.

CASH

Gems (500 gp) x 6
Gem (100 gp)
Statue (250 gp) x 2
400 gp

Total = 4,000 gp / 5 = 800 gp each

MAGIC

The headband goes to Nenia, the cloak goes to Delian and the candle will go in the bag of holding until needed for a ritual. By taking the new cloak, Delian gives up his Amulet of Protection +2. Who wants it? I'd reccomend Braddoc take it.

(10) Headband of Intellect [5,000 gp]
Property: Gain a +2 item bonus to knowledge or monster knowledge checks, and a +1 item bonus to attack rolls on powers that have the psychic keyword.
Power (Daily): Minor Action. Gain a +2 power bonus to the next Intelligence attack that you make this turn.
(9) Cloak of Survival +2 [4,200 gp]
Enhancement: +2 Fortitude, Reflex, and Will
Property: Gain a +2 item bonus to Endurance checks
Property: Gain resist 5 cold
Property: Gain resist 5 fire
(11) Ritual Candle [9,000 gp]
Property: This candle never burns down (except as noted).
Power (Daily): Standard Action. Light the candle before beginning to perform a ritual. You gain a +2 power bonus to any skill checks made as part of the ritual.
The candle automatically extinguishes at the end of the ritual and can be used again the following day.
(6) Amulet of Protection+2 [1,800 gp]
Enhancement: +2 Fortitude, Reflex, and Will

April 19, 2009

Here's a summary of what was found in the dragon's horde last night.

CASH

Gold tiara (1,500 gp)
400 gp

Total = 1,900 gp / 5 = 380 gp each

MAGIC

I assume the boots will go to Braddoc and the helm will go to Sterling.

(12) Battlestrider Greaves [13,000 gp] PHB
Property: Gain a +1 item bonus to speed while wearing heavy armor.
(10) Helm of Heroes [5,000 gp] PHB
Property: You and each ally within 10 squares of you gain a +2 item bonus to saving throws against fear effects.
Power (Daily): Free Action. Use this power when you grant an ally a basic attack. That ally can take a standard action instead. The ally gains a +2 power bonus to any damage rolls made during that standard action.

March 22, 2009

When the game ended we decided we were going to Sharn. Once there I'll sell the following treasures currently in the Bag of Holding.

CASH

Silver Bracelets (100 gp) x 5
Gold Bracelets (250 gp) x1
Gem – Fire Opal (1,000 gp)
Gem – Black Pearl (500 gp)
Gem – Topaz – (500 gp) x 2
2,550 gp

Total = 5,800 gp / 5 = 1160 gp each

Update

1,000 gp
Gem - Jade - (100 gp) x 5

Total = 1,500 / 5 = 300 gp each

MAGIC

We also have the following magical loot.

(10) Jolt Flask [200 gp] AV
Power (Consumable): Standard Action. Make an attack: Area burst 1 within 10; +13 vs. Fortitude; on a hit, the target is dazed until the end of your next turn.
(5) Power Jewel [1,000 gp] AV
Power (Daily): Minor Action. This power allows you to regain the use of an encounter power of 1st or 3rd level.
Special: You must have reached at least one milestone today to activate this item.
(11) Sending Stones (pair) [9,000 gp] PHB
Power (At-Will): Standard Action. Until the end of your next turn, any person speaking into one fist-sized round stone can be heard by those near the other stone as though he or she were standing in the other stone’s place. At the end of your next turn, both stones are exhausted. With a minor action, any character touching a single stone renews the set.
Special: Sending stones normally come in a matched pair attuned to one another. Larger sets of stones attuned to each other can be created (add 50 percent to the base price for each additional stone).
(10) Glowstone [200 gp] AV pg#191
Property: A glowstone radiates dim light in a 2-square radius.
Power (Consumable • Radiant, Zone): Standard Action. Use the glowstone to creates a zone of bright illumination in an area burst 2 within 5 squares of you. Any undead creature that is vulnerable to radiant damage that enters or starts its turn within the zone is affected as if it had taken radiant damage. For example, a skeleton that has vulnerable 5 radiant takes 5 radiant damage if it enters or starts its turn in the zone. The zone remains until the end of the encounter or for 5 minutes, whichever comes first. Using this power turns the glowstone to dust.

NOTES

Delian - I'd like to keep the black pearl (500 gp) for myself. If anyone wants any of the other gems as part of their share let me know or I'll just sell them for cash. I'm not interested in owning any of these magical treasures.

Ethan - I will be taking 100% gp as I will be purchasing a new weapon while in Sharn.

Sterling - Will be taking cash as well.

Recap #22 - Koptila's Secret

2009-03-14T23:36:00.002-04:00

Having just defeated the ogres and orcs that suddenly appeared the group took a short rest and then made their way to the door on the West side of the room. In the distance they could hear the guttural sound of chanting.
Ethan carefully opened the doors and crept down the hall. Not far along he came to a brightly lit room. From his vantage he could see 3 ogres with bowed heads surrounding a rune on the floor. They seemed to be either completing a ritual or praying. The rune was the same sun symbol they found on the door leading here.
Though the room was brightly lit the group decided to move as quickly and quietly as possible in an attempt to take the ogres by surprise. With a little teamwork they were able to gain the entry to the room without raising an alarm.
Once noticed, the PCs waded into battle. The nearest ogre - a warhulk - used its heavy flail to great effect on Braddoc and Ethan. Meanwhile Delian, Sterling, and Nenia tried to take out the Ogre Skirmishers who were lobbing javelins from the far wall. Splitting the party (again) managed to spread the damage around. However this was not the main problem they now faced. Every few seconds (end of the round) one of the PCs gained a curse upon themselves that slowed them and caused a penalty to their Fortitude and Will defences.
As the fight dragged on, Delian noticed that whenever someone was cursed the braziers on the far side of the room flared a little. Deducing that the fires were somehow connected, the PCs set to work upon them as well as the ogre foes. Delian also deduced that the writing on the wall mentioned an ancient god of some sort that was now angered by the presence of the party. Perhaps that was who the ogres were praying to.
Nenia was able to use her Thunderwave to knock over a brazier (on a crit!). There was no noticeable effect on the curse. However when Delian took a few seconds ot bow his head in prayer and apologize for this intrusion he knew he was on to something. He indicated for the others to do the same. They failed miserably and the curse persisted.
Meanwhile weapons were swinging as the ogres and the PCs attempted to hack each other to death. Braddoc in particular was having a lot of difficulty wounding the warhulk. Sterling took a huge brunt of the damage trying to fend off the skirmishers. After a number of rounds the PCs finally earned the upper hand.
After the battle the party was able to disable the second brazier and end the curse upon them all. Some treasure was found on the ogres and under one of the braziers.
Proceeding down a short flight of stairs the group followed a short hall to the West. As they walked the passageway they heard what sounded like a hum or crackling sound. The farther they went the louder it got until they reached a set of double doors where the sound was near deafening.
Expecting the worst the group burst open the door and rushed into the room. It seemed to be some sort of burial chamber. They were met by two zombie hulks who seemed to be guarding the source of the sound - a large energy field cracking with necrotic energy filled the centre of the room. They were also able to see through the field to a small room on the far side where yet another sun symbol hung on the wall in the form of a large metal icon.
Nenia's Arcane check on the field failed to reveal anything of its nature or how to deactivate it.
The PCs turned their attention to the zombies who quickly smashed Braddoc and Delian onto their backs and blocked further progress. Unable to gain flanking positions, the heroes attempted to push, pull, or slide the ogres in some manner.
A few seconds into the battle a large undead ogre ran in from the back room and blasted the party with necrotic energy and slowed them. It was a beast known as Koptila. It then attempted its Death's Beckoning on Delian to no avail.
Figuring they could quickly kill the zombies, the party left Koptila alone. The PCs expected from experience that the hulks would raise themselves once when they were "slain". However there was something they didn't realize, whenever a zombie was killed it disappeared only to return at the end of its next turn within the necrotic energy field! Several times they dropped a zombie only to have it return and set upon them again. Meanwhile Koptila was wreaking havoc upon the party although Delian managed time and again to avoid Koptila's summoning power.
During the scrum Braddoc stepped into the field. Aside from taking damage the party was surprised to see energy leave the dwarf and move into Koptila. Somehow the field had drained a healing surge from Braddoc and boosted Koptila in some manner.
Things were looking pretty grim for the party at this point. Resources were being used up and the creatures were still coming. Finally Nenia determined that the Sun Icon on the far wall was the key to the necrotic field.
After conveying the information to the party Nenia used her Thunderwave power to make access way to the sun icon. Ethan took the opportunity to move in and attempt to disable the device. He quickly realized that the only way to doing so was to simply rip it off the wall.
His first attempt failed and a zombie proceeded to try and smash his brains in. Koptila then used his Death's Beckoning power to teleport Ethan away from the icon. With the doorway blocked by a zombie no one was able to gain access to the icon again!
Then it happened.... TEAMWORK! (hehe... j/k) Braddoc put himself in the way of an opportunity attack from the blocking zombie in order to assist Ethan with jumped clear over the 10 foot zombie! It was a difficult task but it worked!
Once on the other side, Ethan was able to rip the icon of the wall. It turned the tide of the battle. Not only did the energy field disappear, it revealed a large hole in the floor.
In addition to rendering the zombie regeneration inert, Koptila seemed to actually take damage each round. He pulled all the stops attempting to slay the party and return the sun icon to its place but soon he fell to the floor never to rise again.
With every resource exhausted the PCs fell to the floor for a quick rest. A look down the hole in the centre of the room revealed a 20 foot drop into what looked like a natural tunnel. On its floor rested a ladder and some rope.
A few moments later Alara entered the room with her skeletal servant in tow. She said she had learned something new and asked for a report.
Delian complied with the request and Ethan pointed to the sun icon that rested against a wall. After a few moments consideration she addressed the party.
Her researched led her to believe that the ogres had been tricked hundreds of years earlier. Their leader Koptila had sacrificed his life in the deal and the ogres had been "saved" from their enemy by being transported through time. Their sudden materializing was the effect of their being sent from that moment in time to this one. She surmised that it seemed almost instant to the ogres. However she also believed from her readings that the ogres were being used as a decoy for some other more nefarious purpose. She wanted the PCs to proceed immediately into the hole in the floor. She felt it was no coincedence that it was there.
Realizing the group was in no shape for further encounters she asked them to drag Koptila's corpse from the room. She had to reactivate the energy field and didn't want Koptila to gain some advantage from it.
When the room was clear she placed the icon back on the wall. Immediately the energy field sprang back to life. Amid the din of crackling Alara began to perform a ritual. After about 10 minutes she put both hands into the field. Energy bolts flew in every direction and enveloped the party. A few seconds later Alara pulled her hands back.
Alara looked very drained but the party had been fully regenerated. It was as if they had taken a night's rest within a few seconds!
Alara asked them to remove the sun icon and give it to her servant. She then pointed to the hole in the floor and indicated for the group to proceed. The entire region's lives may be at stake.

Recap #21 – An Enemy Returns

2009-03-02T11:31:00.002-05:00

Another long one folks…

12 Nymm, 999 YK

After defeating Jarmaag, his concubine Galaria held true to her word and assisted the PCs in retrieving the Khyber dragonshard from the secret compartment.
The PCs questioned the succubus in the hopes of learning something more about the theft. She indicated that it was Rathos who originally obtained the job. He relegated the work to Jarmaag and his crew. However when Jarmaag realized the value of the item he had taken he decided it was time to claim leadership of the Bloodghosts in Xandrar. Galaria never heard the name of the person who ordered the job but did here the employer referred to as “she” on several occasions during the planning stages.
The watch turned up at the bar about 20 minutes after the battle and the PCs turned Jarmaag over to them. Galaria was set free by the PCs. She promised she would be leaving Xandrar at the earliest opportunity.
After buying a few potions, selling a few items and visiting the ship captain they freed from Rathos, the group located their horses and started the journey back to Lakeview. The dragonshard was safely stowed in the Bog of Holding.

18 Nymm, 999 YK

The group made camp at a fork in the road about 1 day’s journey from Lakeview.
At about the 6th hour of the watch they were awoken by a rough voice who taunted them. “Well, well, well. It seems I have finally found you.”
Upon waking they PCs realized they were surrounded by a large number of hobgoblins led by none other than their old adversary Sinruth! After a very brief dialogue he gave a signal to attack.
Things went from bad to worse when the ground suddenly shook and a great beast tore from the ground killing several hobgoblins and knocking a number of other combatants prone. Realizing what was transpiring Sinruth ordered his men to assist the PCs in killing the Bulette that had decided it had found a plentiful feeding ground.
Things were going well against the bulette until it became bloodied and buried itself. Unable to attack their common foe, the PCs quickly turned back to attacking the hobgoblins. Several of them were killed.
A couple of rounds later the bulette once more burst from the ground and set upon the remaining people. Unable to decide whether to trust Sinruth a second time, the group split their attacks between killing their old foe and their new one. It took everything they had (and I mean everything) to accomplish the task. In the end the bulette was forced to retreat severely wounded and Sinruth gave himself up as prisoner. The group recovered 200 gp and an Elven Cloak +2 from the defeated hobgoblins.

19 Nymm, 999 YK

The PCs entered Lakeview with their prisoner in tow. However they immediately noted that the inhabitants of the town were on edge (to say the least). Paranoid would be more appropriately descriptive.
The group escorted Delian to Alara’s residence so he could deliver the dragonshard. Alara was pleased. Offered Delian a drink and listened to his report. She also warned him of leaving his friends alone in town in light of recent events. She didn’t allude to what they were at that time.
Sterling took care of stabling the horses and then assisted Braddoc and Nenia with escorting Sinruth to the town jail. It took a little convincing but they were able to get him incarcerated.
Ethan went to find out what was going on in town. One woman talked briefly about mysteriously appearing ogres killing people. Then she got so freaked out she ran away. From there he worked his way around town until he end up at the Tailchaser Inn. No one was in the pub so he hit up the bartender for information.
He learned that 7 days prior an ogre had materialized out of thin air in the middle of the town square and set upon anyone with reach. It killed over 30 people before an organized resistance was able to take it down. 3 days later another appeared at the town pond and killed 4 swimming children before being killed. No one knows where they are coming from but many people are leaving the area until the mess is cleared up.
After everyone returned to Alara’s residence she proceed to fulfill her end of the bargain. She divulged the following information: (I’ve had to switch things a bit from what I said last night. It seems I had my planar information quite wrong. Oops. You’’ just have to go about things another way!)

The last known location of the Phoenix Cloak was in the Fernia – the Sea of Fire. Getting there was not impossible by any means but it would be difficult. Getting there is MUCH easier when Fernia is coterminal with Eberron. However that is not going to happen again for another 683 days. (Just over 2 years) To that end she had sent Telios and Andred
(the minotaur and dragonborn) to Arcanix in search of other means of getting there.
They were also researching another the group would need. It seems that the cloak is in a chamber that is impossible to open without the proper seal. There research seemed to indicate that the seal was being guarded within the Demonwastes. This was currently being confirmed with research in Arcanix.
In the meantime the town had been under attack from the ogres. She noted that Kythri was currently coterminous with Eberron. She felt that the Churning Choas plane was somehow tied to the ogres. With that clue she
was able to find a small ancient snippet in one of Andred’s history books referencing a powerful clan of ogres that used to live just north where Lakeviewnow rests. It was even possible that Lakeview was built upon buried ruins. It seems that a powerful enemy was about to defeat the ogres so the clan chief, Koptila, mad a bargain with some gods in exchange for the rescue of his clan. The gods agreed and all the ogres disappeared without a trace. There is no record of where they went.

As Alara was talking the ground suddenly began to shake like an earthquake. Upon investigating the group learned from some people that a huge sinkhole had opening in the earth north of the town. One brave soul had crept up and seen a passageway of stairs leading into the earth.
Alara thinks this is no coincidence. As the PCs have a week or so to wait for the return of Andred and Telios she asks the group to investigate.
The group makes their way to the passageway. They find a door that has been cracked up. Using a sunrod the group moves in to find an ancient chamber covered in runes. From a small crevasse in the floor the party hears the whispers of hundreds of voices.
As the group moved toward a door in the West wall 3 ogres and 3 orcs suddenly materialized throughout the room. The group was able to get a round of attacks in while the seemingly surprised beasts slowly became substantial.
Even though the foes caused quite a bit of damage (yay for great axe crits!) they were quickly subdued by the PCs. Upon the corpses the group found 3 silver bracelets worth 100 gp each.
The PCs once again turned their attention to the door to the west. It is adorned with a large sun icon. Listening to the door, the group can hear loud guttural chanting. They are unable to discern what it means.

Farewell to a Friend.

2009-02-27T22:20:00.006-05:00

I am not sure if anyone follows this blog aside from our gaming group but I want to preface this post before it is read.

On February 15, 2009 one of our group members - Robert Ste Croix - passed away at the age of 33 after a brief battle with cancer. This post is my way of saying goodbye as I - and the rest of the group - were unable to attend the funeral far, far from here.

Rob is going to be missed by many people. Not the least of which will be the guys who enjoyed his roleplaying on Sunday nights over of the past couple of years. Rob's last character was Jonathon; a battle cleric who dropped everything to assist innocents and the weak. Many times it was to the detriment to the rest of us but it was always entertaining!

Rest in peace my friend.

Jonathon winced as he leaned his head against the rotten stump of a tree. Even had it not been just after sunset, he was sure he would still have had trouble seeing with all the blood flowing into his eyes. His helmet had saved his head from being crushed like a melon but he had been rewarded with a large gash in his forehead where his helm had been forced into his skin. Of course that wound was of minor consequence. The mighty club of the ogre had somehow managed to crush his left side. He was having trouble breathing.

He was in a bad position now and he knew it.

Taking a ragged breath he calmed himself. Had anyone been close enough to assist him they would have heard a quiet prayer of thanks to Dol Dorn. The god of steel and strength had granted him victory over his foe. Most importantly he knew he had saved the boy from certain death. His thoughts drifted to what had just transpired. It seemed like hours ago yet he knew it had been mere minutes.

Some might call happening on the situation pure chance. He knew better. All day he had sensed he would be tested once again. Travelling alone to Flamekeep had granted him the opportunity to meditate a great deal on his teachings and beliefs. Somehow he seemed to have gained a sort of six sense of danger ahead. He surmised it was a blessing from Dol Dorn for his faithfulness.
He recalled hearing a bellow of pain as he rounded a corner of this forest path. As he cleared a large boulder he had come across the scene: an ogre dwarfing a human lad held a raised club in his right hand while he grasped a newly opened knife wound in his left leg. The boy was brandishing a knife as he danced defiantly between the nearby trees. Both combatants were obviously looking for another opening.

With a quick prayer Jonathon had leaped into action. He uttered a challenge to the ogre and set upon him with his sword. The ogre’s large frame offered plenty of target but the huge club seemed to swing as easily as a sapling in the wind. The strength of the ogre was astounding. When Jonathon ducked under a blow directed at his head the club had struck a tree and shattered it into tinder. Time and again Jonathon had managed to wound the beast but never with a blow grievous enough to slow it down. It was becoming a battle of attrition.

That was when it happened.

The boy appeared suddenly on the far side of the ogre. It was so unexpected that Jonathon had been momentarily distracted. It was enough for the ogre to bring his weapon to bear upon the cleric. The club hit the cleric full on causing the massive wounds he now suffered from. Jonathon had been momentarily stunned by the force of the blow. He was sure he would have been killed in the seconds that followed had his ally not struck the right arm of the creature. It had been a well aimed attack. Perhaps a nerve or tendon had been severed. Whatever it was, the effect was immediate. The beast dropped his club and clawed at his arm in pain. In the same motion it had also swung around so quickly that it had caught the boy full in the chest and sent him flying like a rag doll into some nearby bushes.

Seeing a precious opening Jonathon had gathered his wits and drove his sword home beneath the ribcage of his foe. With a shudder the monstrosity had fallen forward never to move again.
Jonathon mind wandered back to the boy. He had no idea where the youngster had gone. A quick search had revealed a small pool of blood in the bushes but nothing more. In his current state Jonathon was unable to follow any trail.

He was getting tired. Most likely lost blood. Even with his considerable knowledge of the healing arts he was unable to do much for what he believed was a crushed lung. Fight as he may he knew in his heart he was too far from any house of healing to have much hope. He resigned himself to that thought and turned his heart to prayer. Soon he was unable to stay awake any longer.

*******************************

Tharunn crept forward through the underbrush. Everything had gone quiet after he had bolted from the battle. Honing his skills in the forest was one thing. Taking on an ogre singlehandedly was something entirely different. In fact, if he didn’t feel that he now owed the cleric a life debt he would be long gone from here by know.

As he crept forward he finally made out the form of the ogre corpse. He didn’t know a lot about the huge creatures but he didn’t think they slept sprawled on their faces on the forest floor. Surely the beast was dead. But where was the cleric? From his vantage point he couldn’t see to the far side of the small clearing.

He was about to stand and move passed the body when soft white light appeared on the other side of the path. Unsure of what was happening, he slowly stood and peered out from behind a young tree. For a moment he thought his eyes were playing tricks on him. The cleric was leaning against a rotten stump and in front of him was a warrior bathed in a glowing white light. The radiant being’s armour had been specially crafted to accommodate the two large wings on its back. Tharunn had listened to enough church sermons in his life to know that this creature could be nothing more than an angel. Tharunn heard him speak.

“Awake faithful servant of Dol Dorn. It is time to receive your reward. You have followed your convictions as well as any man could. More so than most. Your time here on Khorvaire is at an end. Come. Time to meet the other faithful. Take my hand Jonathon.”

As Jonathon slowly took the creatures hand a brilliant flash of light filled the entire area.

When Tharunn’s eyes finally adjusted to the coming darkness of the evening he was standing alone with the corpse of an ogre.

Recap #20 – Jarmaag’s Hot Girlfriend

2009-02-26T23:31:00.002-05:00

12 Nymm (This is the date I've calculated and I'm sticking to it.)

After a very long discussion on how to proceed, the party decided that a straight up approach was the smartest plan of action. They would try to act like everything was normal in order to gain audience with Jarmaag but they would expect the worst. Good thing too.
Along the way they were joined by a mysterious elf ranger. He would later disappear. Maybe never to be heard of in Eberron again. (Thanks for playing Ed!)
Entering the bar the party noted 7 individuals quietly talking amongst themselves and having a drink – even at this early hour of the day. Ethan noticed Tolg in a back booth speaking to a tiefling. Tolg ignored him though.
The groups request for a drink and Jarmaag’s ear was initially ignored by the barkeep. However after a moment he went into the back to let Jarmaag know the group was here.
In the meantime Tolg said “You’ve got a lot of nerve coming back here traitor!” and a bloody battle ensued. It had many of the elements of a classic bar brawl!
Braddoc deftly jumped on a table in the middle of 4 humans and with one mighty swing felled 3 of them. The bartender returned from the back and quickly dropped an area of darkness before going to town on Delian. He was joined by shifter who went straight for the backlines of the PCs and began hounding Nenia and the ranger.
Ethan and Delian were able to do enough damage to Tolg to force him to flee through the darkness and into the kitchen. They were then joined by Sterling and they were able to kill the bartender before turning their attention to the tiefling warlock he was protecting behind him.
In the end the PCs were victorious but Delian and Nenia were rather sore.
Proceeding through the kitchen and down the secret stair to the gambling hall the group encountered Jarmaag and his cronies.
Druel the dragonborn gladiator drooled (haha), hooted and grunted as he brought his considerable gladiatorial skills to bear while Jarmaag’s “wife” Galaria dominated Ethan and Delian from behind the bar. She was in fact a succubus. Even the battered Tolg joined the fracas.
Several other members of the Bloodghosts also joined the fray and Jarmaag himself unleashed a devastating array of magic upon the outnumbered heroes.
Eventually the group began to get the best of their enemies as they dropped them one by one. In the end it was only Jarmaag and Galaria left. It was then that Galaria showed her true colours and betrayed Jarmaag to save her own skin. She stopped resisting the PCs and offered information on Rathos’ in exchange for her life.
Enraged, Jarmaag tried to flee but was dropped in the stairwell by the mysterious ranger’s deadly aim.
As the party tied up Jarmaag, Galaria unceremoniously relieved him of his secret key (from places best left unspoken!) and took Ethan and Sterling up to Jarmaag’s suite. There they found the Khyber dragonshard just where Rathos thought it would be.
Now the party needs to decide how to proceed.

Recap #19 – Rathos’ Deal

2009-02-26T22:29:00.000-05:00

With the Oni defeated the party took a brief respite and proceeded south to the end of the main hallway with Ethan taking point. Rounding the corner to the west they encountered two bugbear warriors on jail guard duty. The party made quick work of them.
Inside the second jail cell the group found a prisoner near death. After tending his wounds they discovered he was the captain of the ship that had been raided for the dragonshard they were seeking. Being in no condition to defend himself the man begged for the party to take him out of the catacomb lair immediately. After a brief (but animated and detailed) discussion, Ethan led the man to a safe spot in the ruins outside while Delian stood guard near the hidden lair entrance. They provided also provided the captain with their magic candle to keep him safe.
In the meantime the rest of the party took peek down a short stairway to discover a pit containing several needlefang drake swarms. Fearful of a trap Nenia destroyed the creatures from the safety of the stairway landing. (Murderer!)
With no other doors left to open the group suspected yet another secret passage somewhere. With a little luck they were able to locate one in the middle of the hall. It lead to a bar stocked with exotic wines and ales. Each party member helped themselves to a bottle. (Worth no money. Simply roleplaying options here folks!)
Through a further door the group finally met Rathos. The rather overweight bugbear was lounging on his bed with his two pet displacer beasts standing guard in front of him. By the looks of him, his love of the finer things in life had left him rather out of shape – or at least more of a round shape!
The party initially accused Rathos of plundering the dragonshard and demanded he return it. Rathos indicated he did not have the dragonshard in his possession. He claimed that Jarmaag had it and that the group was being used by a scheming kobold. He even allowed Ethan to search the room to prove his claim.
Rathos then put an offer on the table. In exchange for being left alone he would tell the party where the dragonshard was and some of Jarmaag’s tricks and strengths. Braddoc wanted no part of it. He was itching for blood. However Nenia spoke up and accepted the offer on behalf of the party and the deal was struck.
Rathos indicated that Jarmaag most likely kept the dragonshard in a secret compartment within a secret compartment under his bed. Furthermore, no skill in thievery would be able to pick the lock. The group needed the key that Jarmaag kept on his person. He also informed the group that Jarmaag kept the company of a seemingly beautiful woman who was in actuality a demon. He also sported a dragonborn body guard of sorts who had fought as a gladiator many years before. Aside from that, all the individuals frequenting the Bottle and Speak Easy were fiercely loyal to Jarmaag and should be expected to help defend him.
With that the party left Rathos.
On their way back to town the group stopped to pick up the captain of the ship.
Further along the path the group happened upon a group of bugbears and a doppelganger. On Jarmaag’s orders they demanded proof of Rathos’ demise. When the party refused to do so the doppelganger ordered them to wait while Rathos’ lair was checked. Upon refusing that request as well, the party found themselves in another scrum. The doppelganger warned the group that if he did not return then Jarmaag would know he had been betrayed. The party didn’t care.
Having already used up most of their tricks, the group was hard pressed to overcome this group. In the end they were victorious but they were also forced to see shelter within the ruins prior to returning to deal with Jarmaag.
In the distraction of making camp, Sterling did not notice the scout that spied upon them before slinking back towards town.

Recap #18 - Let's Find Rathos

2009-02-07T09:22:00.002-05:00

With the vampire guardian dead the PCs searched the rest of her area and found a secret door behind one of the ornamental curtains lining the walls. The tunnel beyond was lined with alcoves containing the corpses of long-dead humanoids. Searching carefully for traps yielded a small amount of gold and silver.
After 50 feet the tunnel led to the right and then ended abruptly in a cave in. With no where to go the group suspected another secret door was nearby. They started to back track and located a secret door at the back of one of the alcoves. Ethan proceeded through the door which led down a short hallway ending in another door.
With little effort Ethan was able to open this final obstacle and was greeted with a room containing 2 gricks locked in a cage. However he did not perceive the triggered plate inside the room the locked the door behind him and released the gricks.
While Ethan maneuvered himself into a corner, his comrades desperately attacked the locked door in order to provide him some aid. After three rounds they succeeded in smashing the old oak doors to bits. Luckily Ethan's deft moves were able to minimize the effectiveness of the gricks' attacks.
Just as things were looking to be in control two secret doors opened in the south wall and 4 bugbear warriors burst into the room! They quickly took positions to maximize their flanking opportunities and Jonathon started to take a real beating. The PCs were spread among the attackers and were having difficulty dropping any single target.
To make matters even worse a bugbear strangler manage to sneak up behind the group through the secret door and harass Sterling and Delian. Things were looking grim.
Eventually Nenia successfully used Thunderwave to throw the bugbears against the wall and eliminate many of their flanks. From there the party was able to start dropping their foes. A several more rounds they were victorious.
After a brief rest the group moved through the secret doors the warriors had come through to discover a barracks and a sergeant's room. The articles in that room seemed to indicate that the strangler was the leader of the warriors. They also discovered a second secret door leading into the alcoved hallway. It seems they had initially discovered the "trapped" entrance.
They spent the next while moving throughout the complex. They passed through a dart board room that was actually a set of traps that shot paralyzing darts. Once discovered they easily overcame that obstacle.
Beyond they discovered a meeting room complete with spy holes, a warehouse containing a large sum of gold and a skeleton key. They then came upon a room containing torturing equipment. In the corner was an old man sleeping in a bed.
Ethan attempted to sneak into the room to subdue the old man but somehow the geezer knew he was there the second he stepped into the room. Without turning over he warned Ethan to leave the room at once or perish slowly in the mechanisms of the room. Of course the PCs didn't heed the warning and the old man leaped from the bed and transformed into a large Oni Night Haunter.
The Oni was nearly successful in capturing the entire party with an area effect power that would have rendered them all unconscious (and captured) with a failed first saving throw. However Delian was quick enough to divert the attack on Ethan onto himself. While Ethan protected his comrades they slowly awakened.
With its main attack used the battle more or less became a war of attrition. The Oni, however, had one final trick up its sleeve. When it was near defeat it transformed itself once more. This time it took a gaseous form and quickly escaped.
The party took a brief rest and prepared to continue their search the hideout for either Rathos Bloodghost or the dragonshard they required.

Infiltration

2009-01-31T13:43:00.004-05:00

As Ethan followed the Hobgolbin runt back to it's lair, all he could think was that this was too easy and far too convienent. That Jarmagg knew who they all were wasn't that surprising. The others hadn't been subtle about announcing their presence or intentions. In hindsight Ethan should have kept a lower profile and not asked so many questions, but what was done was done. Now he just had to follow the Hobgoblin to Rathos' hideout.

Something just didn't fell right. Jarmagg had been too eager to to send Ethan and his companions out after Rathos. It didn't sit right with him, kill Rathos and Jarmagg would give the party this DragonShard? Ethan doubted Jarmagg was that well intentioned.

Making a vow to be vigilant in future dealings with the Kobold Ethan continued to follow the Hobgoblin until it entered an underground vault. Marking the location Ethan quickly returned to his companions, the time for thinking was past. Now was a time for action.

Alara's Chamber...

2009-01-26T18:20:00.003-05:00

Alara's eyes followed Sterling's retreating frame as he exited the chamber. She sensed her minotaur bodyguards weight shift to his right leg.

"Speak your mind Telios. I've known you long enough to know when something troubles you even if you don't utter the words."

After a moment Telios' baratone voice rumbled "Do you really think it is wise to send these young ones after such an important item? It took you many years to locate and arrange possession of the dragonshard. We know of no other that will be sufficient for our cause."

"I understand your concern my friend. However there is more to this group than meets the eye. I understand Ragnolin has great faith in them. They will serve the purpose as well or better than many others."

She turned to look at the massive frame of the minotaur as he leaned upon his mighty battle axe. Over the years he had transformed from hired protection into an advisor of sorts. He rarely spoke unless he thought it important enough to do so.

"Besides," she continued, "whether they are successful or not, our plans will be furthered. If they are slain then they are out of our hair and we simply go get the dragonshard from Rathos ourselves. If they are able to secure it then we have our next prize and the lot of them will be off to a place farther from Eberron than they will have thought possible."

She turned to the curtained doorway behind her. "Andred. I know you are there. Please stop skulking about and show yourself."

The dragonborn pulled the curtain aside as stepped into the room. "I am simply ensuring that history has accurate records of the great events to come Mi'lady."

Alara rolled her eyes. "Are you sure you have located the information we need to secure our end of the bargain with the members of the Clifftop's Adventurers Guild?"

"I am one hundred percent certain I know the last location where the Phoenix Cloak was said to be guarded. One can never be sure it has not moved in the last 20 years of course."

Alara was silent a moment. "Excellent. As usual your talents for delving through historical data are invaluable."

Andred bowed and turned to step back through the doorway. However, Alara interrupted his progress. Without turning he stopped as she said "Andred, if I catch you eavesdropping on my private conversation again I will ensure that your name will be erased from history."

Andred nodded and disappeared behind the curtain.

Recap #17 - Searching for Bloody Ghosts

2009-01-26T18:14:00.008-05:00

The group has been charged with the task of retrieving a seemingly priceless Khyber dragonshard that was stolen from Alara by a group known as the Bloodghost Syndicate. The dragonshard had been raided from its transport ship as it crossed Lake Galifar to Xandrar.
The PCs opted to enter Xandrar singly and to each do their own information gathering in order to find clues as to the location of the syndicate's hideout or anything else pertaining to the heist.
Ethan worked the streets and was able to secure the name of a noble who had recently been ripped off by the Syndicate and to set up a meeting with a member of the Bloodghosts on the pretence of becoming a member. He was to meet Tolg at the Bottle and Blade Speak Easy Inn and then meet someone named Jarmaag Fireseer. Ethan also spent some time at the docks and confirmed the Bottle and Speak easy as a known Bloodghost hangout. Oddly enough he new sailor buddy had heard nothing of a raided ship and murdered crew - let alone the theft of a large dragonshard.
Delian used his ties to the church to locate a member of the town's guards who would be willing to provide information on the Bloodghosts in exchange for assistance on taking them down if possible. He also met with the noble - Armos - and learned that he had recently been sold a fraudulant relic by the Bloodghosts. He offered Delian the name Jarmaag Fireseer at the Bottle and Blade in exchange for assistance in getting his money back or the real artifact he wanted in the first place.
Nenia (and Sterling) hit up the local "fences" posing as prospective buyers of rare rituals and dragonshards. She set up a deal to buy a rare ritual and was given the name of another fence who was known to deal in Dragonshards. After some convincing, the second fence told he to give the code phrase "The moon of Khyber shines bright upon Eberron" to the barkeep at the Bottle and Speak Easy. From there she would be able to meet someone selling a "huge and nearly flawless" dragonshard.
Our dwarven friend Braddoc opted for the direct approach. He marched himself straight to the seediest drinking establishment he could find and started talking loudly about recovering stolen dragonshards and the Bloodghosts. At one point he noticed a large bugbear give him a sidelong look, drain his drink, and slip out into the night. Braddoc took notice of his looks for future recognisance. The next day he continued his methods and was lucky enough to stumble upon the bugbear at another bar. He sidled up to him and demanded the bugbear to tell him what he know of the Bloodghosts and the dragonshard. The bugbear warned to him mind his own business and take a hike. Braddoc responded threateningly and a fight ensued. Though Brugg - the bugbear - weilded a huge greatclub he was no match for the dwarf. In the end Braddoc knocked him unconscious and was rewarded for his efforts by being invited to the back room of the bar where he was told to return the next day for information on the dragonshard. Surprisingly enough he was given the name Jarmaag Fireseer at the Bottle and Blade Inn.
The next day the entire group made their way to the east end of Xandrar and devised a plan on entering the pub separately. Delian posed as a prospective buyer of rare wines (and paid a ransom for a few glasses of rare liquer). Ethan met Tolg and waited patiently for Jarmaag to show his face. Nenia with her "bodyguard" Sterling gave their secret code to the barkeep and promptly ordered a glass of milk before she was ridiculed into purchasing a mug of ale. Latly, Braddoc marched in asking for Jarmaag. They were all rewarded when the kobold Jarmaag entered the pub from the kitchen and directly asked the lot of them to follow him downstairs for on offer of exchange.
Below the pub was a secret gambling hall. After being forced to relinquish their weapons at the door they met with Jarmaag and Tolg inside. Jarmaag offered to ensure the group located the laid of Rathos in exchange for their guarantee that Rathos' leadership of the local Bloodghosts would end and Jarmaag's would begin.
The group agreed and Jarmaag promptly set up a meeting with one of Rathos' known henchmen. Jarmaag got into a heated argument with the hobgoblin. When the irate contact stormed out of the pub Ethan trailed him into the ruins to the East and learned where the location of Rathos' lair was.
After the party was gathered they descended the steps of the hideout into what looked like an ancient crypt. After carefully searching the alcoves and halls for traps the group came upon a door. From the far side they heard a piano.
Passing through the door revealed a 20 foot square room ending in a thick green curtain. From beyond the beautiful tones of the piano continued. When the groupmates reached the curtain it magically pulled back to reveal an absolutely stunning woman playing an ornate piano in the middle of a throne room. She welcomed them and, when questioned, indicated the she did indeed know Rathos. She had struck a deal with him to guard his entrance in exchange for all the food it brought to her! A battle ensued during which Sterling smashed and burned the piano.
Even after dominating a couple of the heroes and teleporting away the group was able to trap her outside a storeroom and finish her off. Delian delved the recesses of his religious teaching and recalled that the beast was known as a Vampire Muse. The only way to truly kill her was by destroying her blood cauldron (think phylactery). Oddly enough Sterling has inadvertantly already done so by destroying the piano in which it was hidden!
Inside the storage room the group found a

Cloak of Distortion +2 (Adventurer's Vault)
Silver-plated sword x 2 (250 gp each)
500 gp

Alara

2009-01-26T17:37:00.002-05:00

Born in Lakeview 20 years prior, Alara Laecandra had a harsh life. Her father was a beast of a man who worked her to the bone on their farm outside of Lakeview. She quickly learned to covet the small niceties she was able to squirrel away. Around her twelveth year her natural afinity for magic caught the eye of Alkraine Il’tansil - the towns mage. He agreed to teach her magic whenever she was able to spend time.

Years later Alara and a group of youth from the town were charged with retrieving an important relic stolen from the town by raiding goblins. The adventure that followed brought Alara throughout the world and it is even rumoured she travelled through the fabric of time itself. Perhaps that explains why she became such a powerful necromancer at such an early age.

Recently she returned to her home town and has transformed the backwater hamlet into a busseling hub of trade for raw materials such as ore and lumber. While not the official leader of the town, most would quickly concede that she is the driving force making the rules.

It is known that she somehow knows Ragnolin Dourstone and was able to provide information to Kartenix and Jaryn regarding the location of the Raptor's Mask. She has now agreed to provide the party with information on the extremely powerful Cloak of Flames in exchange for retrieving a huge Khyber Dragonshard from the Bloodghosts of Xandrar.

She seems to keep the company of a powerful looking minotaur and a scholarly looking dragonborn named Andred.

Xandrar

2009-01-15T22:11:00.003-05:00

Small City, Population 12,800

(most info from Five Nations book)

The modern city of Xandrar, built on the eastern bank of the Silver River where the waters of Silver Lake pour into Lake Galifar, takes its name from the much older Dhakanni city of Xandrar, whose ruins occupy the western riverbank and several miles of the lakeshore. The thriving city is Breeland's gateway for trade with the Eldeen Reaches, and small barges ply the lake, providing ties to Aundair as well. Since Eldeen and Aundair were openly at war for most of the last century, Xandrar became a key link for what little trade the two nations could not avoid.

Mayor Garrit Tomraan governs the city, but Countess Yassic ir'Oeskai provides the city watch and administers the surrounding lands. The countess spends most of her time at her mansion within the city rather than at Drum Keep, the primary garrison of her holdings. She and Garrit hold wildy different opinions on the "Swords of Liberty problem" that has infested the region in recent months, but generally manage to work together to keep the city from being burned to the ground.

Yassiv has some sympathy for the goals of the Swords of Liberty, and rumours persist that she once adventured with Red Owl, the legendary leader of the area's Swords of Liberty cell. Garrit meanwhile, has no patience for the destructive tactics of the Swords and the suffering Red Owl has personally brought to innocents while trying to strike out against the monarchy.

The Liberty Palace, the headquarters of Red Owl spoken of in whispers throughout the region, is said to be located in Xandrar.

Lakeview Information

2009-01-15T22:10:00.002-05:00

Lakeview is a remote village that lies about halfway between Sylbaran and Greenblade several miles inland from the shores of Silver Lake. Since it lies a few miles from the nearest Orien Trade Route, the population of the village normally remained very low – only 41 people plus the surrounding farms - but has recently mushroomed to 352.

Lakeview’s most prominent building is the mill that lies on the banks of the river Twyne. Standing three stories, it is the only structure in town built completely of stone. Just south of the town is the Lake of Plenty, so named for its bountiful amounts of fish that are taken each summer. The small lake is fed by an underwater spring; its waters are a clear blue crystal. The lake flows into the river Twyne, which flows narrow but deep in a northerly direction.

North West of town is what the villager’s refer to as Gabriel’s Wood, a forest of some size. The ancient trees of the forest seemingly stand on guard over the quaint village. It is, in fact, the beginnings of the vast woods of the Eldeen Reaches.

Within the forest lies resides the great druid Malyana. Her grove is a place of tranquility where all villagers are welcome. The forest is also home to other forest creatures, such as nymphs and dryads.

Three days or more ride to the west of town are the Talasian foothills which then lead into the Byeshk Mountains.

The world beyond Lakeview goes by without giving a thought to the sleepy little village and those who live within the town have little enough reason to leave. Life in the village required hard work had always been good.

That all changed 8 months ago when a former resident returned to town. With her great power she quickly took the people of Lakeview under her protection and turned the sleepy town into a hub of trade almost overnight. Ore flows from the mountains to the west and - quite surprisingly – with the local druid’s blessings, limited lumber is taken from approved locations within the forest.

Notable NPCS
Malyana – Druid
Malyana has been the druid of Gabriel’s Wood for as long as any of the PCs can remember. She is a kind woman who invites the villagers to learn more about the faith of Ehlonna. She also serves as a counsellor to the village and is good friends with its cleric Rogar.

Rogar – Cleric
Rogar is a cleric of Ehlonna. A follower of the nature deity. He is good friends with the druid Malyana. He first came to the village about 25 years ago. The villagers consider him to be highly favoured by his deity for they have never known a bad harvest since he arrived.

Deanton – Fighter
Deanton is one of the toughest men in town. He fought in a war approx 25 – 30 years ago. He left as a young man and returned, a competent fighter able to help the village ward off any goblinoid attacks. He has never once spoken of his experience during the war. Deanton has a permanent room in the Tailchasers Inn.

Dean Thomas – Mayor
Dean is the Mayor of Lakeview. He first ran for the mayorship 20 years ago and won. Since then no one has run against him. Not because they are afraid of him, but because he does a good job and no one else wants the job. His primary duties are to ensure that the village does well when it trades with the caravans that occasionally come through. A robust fellow, Dean fully enjoys the finer pleasures in life.

Alkraine Il’tansil – Sage
Alkraine has been a figure in the village for the past 50 years. A wizard of some note, he now spends the majority of his time reading any old texts he hasn’t yet gotten too. A repository of knowledge, most of which he has forgotten. A highlight of village life is listening to Alkraine tell a story of the ancients over a mug of ale at the ‘Tailchasers Inn’.

Notable Locations
Tailchasers Inn – The oldest local inn and tavern for the town. Not many use it as an Inn, but in the old days it saw more traffic. It is now a gathering point for the villagers. Megan Bransor is the proprietor of the Inn, having run it since her husband passed on 8 years ago. She keeps the inn in perfect condition; all the beds are made and ready for guests. Megan figures while there might not be much need for the rooms now, she’d best be ready for the day people do come.

Ye Olde Cold Iron Shoppe – The blacksmiths shop.
Old Jaeck can make just about anything you need. From hammers to nails and horseshoes. He’s even been known to make the odd weapon or piece of armour.

The Wharf – Before the population boom there were only two boats docked at the wharf. There was only one fisherman though. Omar keeps talking about how one day he’ll be needing to hire another captain to take the other vessel out. Oh yes, business will be good one day.

Other locations – School, general store, mill, butcher, baker, sage’s home, temple.

Statistical Information about Lakeview
97% of the town population is human
1% is half-orc
1% is half-elf
1% is other

Delian’s Letters

2009-01-13T13:01:00.000-05:00

21 Eyre, 999 YK

Greetings, Father Tana

So many things have happened since I left Sharn. I don’t think a letter is the proper way to share many of these experiences, but I wanted to write you nonetheless.

You will be pleased to learn that our journey brought us to Flamekeep for a short time. While there I presented your requests to the Council of the Flame as you asked. I don’t know if they will take them seriously or not, but the fact that they weren’t dismissed out of hand is a positive sign.

While in Flamekeep a woman named Halinna introduced herself to me as Liola’s aunt. She was a very pleasant lady and excited to hear first-hand news of Coldflame Keep. I told her about Liola’s progress and she wanted me to thank you for being such a good teacher and mentor to her niece.

Father Tana, I want tell you about a strange set of circumstances which led me to a wonderful discovery of faith.

My companions and I rescued a fallen Paladin of the Silver Flame. He had become possessed by a demonic force. I am very glad to tell you that we were able to free his mind without killing him. But he carries a tremendous burden of guilt because of the atrocities he committed while possessed.

Since freeing his mind, I have worked with this man. He has a good heart I am saddened when he tells me he cannot feel the Flame burning within him. Through lengthy discussions and prayers we have successfully reignited his devotion to the Silver Flame, but we both know it will be a long time before he feels it burning as brightly in his soul as it once did.

My part in his release and redemption has allowed me to feel the warmth of the Silver Flame in a different and very satisfying way. It has renewed and strengthened my resolve to the Flame. My heart and mind look at things differently and with more clarity. It is similar to the way I felt when the Silver Flame first touched my spirit. I believe it is trying to show me a path, a path that my life can take in service to the Silver Flame. I am excited and quite curious as to where this path might lead.

We will discuss this more when next I return to Sharn. Unfortunately at this point I don’t know when that might be. Until then, may the Flame keep you safe.

Delian

Recap #16 - Jaryn's Fate

2009-01-06T20:04:00.003-05:00

The group did a little more investigating and found that the new goblin runes in the previous hallway actually hid a secret door.
Ethan stealthily climbed the stairs beyond and discovered a warband waiting in ambush. 2 advanced human beserkers, 1 blazing skeleton, 1 hobgoblin commander, and 1 advanced hobgoblin warcaster all sought to end the journey of the PCs on the floor of the temple.
A mighty battle ensued during which the group noticed Jaryn waiting patiently at the far end of the temple hall in front of an altar. He seemed to be waiting for the outcome of the battle.
When the group finished off the warband Jaryn proceeded to inform the group to rest and heal themselves for the trial ahead. He believed he was being tested by Naarash to prove his continued worthiness as leader of the cult.
During the conversation the Jaryn answered the following (pertinent) questions:

What is this place? “The temple is older than human history. It is a place of great power, and from it, a great power will rise.”

What is the stone on the altar? “The Eye of Naarash is the material embodiment of Bane’s might. It is the source of the strength the god grants us. The giants discovered it, but they were not worthy.”

What is the Rite of the Eye? “The Rite of the Eye binds the faithful to Bane. Those who take the rite bear the talisman that commits their own life force to Naarash and the greater glory of the Hand.”

Why did you let your guards die? What do you mean by a challenge? “The faith of Bane allows no weakness. Only the strongest can lead the Hand. I was made Voice of Naarash by the blood of Larkazh, even as he slew the master before him. You are here by Bane’s will to challenge me. Should you succeed, you are destined to build on what I have built until you are challenged in turn.”

What happened to you to change your faith? “My faith has not changed. It has simply been refocused. The fall of Nerath marked the end of this world, but humanity lingers like the condemned man who cannot accept the end. Pelor is dead. The good, the moral, the light—these things are no more.”

Why have you taken control of the cult? “Humanity’s lot in this new world is struggle and death, but not all are suited to such hardship. Those who are strong will inherit the mantle of humanity. Those who cannot embrace the darkness will suffer. My way ends the torment for them. My way is mercy.”

What of the rest of the items of the Phoenix Regalia? “Ah yes, those items. Together they are very powerful but even they cannot hold back the fury of Naarash if their owner does not serve him. Skamos is an evil creature but even he unwittingly serves Naarash with his culling of the weak. Worry not for the trinkets he seeks. Worry only that you best me this day – else you shall perish here in this hall. The time has come to end this.”
Jaryn proves to be quite a challenge. His blows devastate the party forcing them to work together to split Jaryn’s focus. In the end they subdue him with non-lethal blows.
When Jaryn falls to the ground a large red crystal on the altar of the hall bursts with light and a cry rings out. A large demon emerges and its foul voice echoes from the stones as it hisses: “You have slain my champion and have shown your worth. Who among you accepts the mantle of Voice of Naarash?”
Surprisingly (heh) no one accepts and the demon bursts into an uncontrollable rage as it wades into the group to slay them all. Its double slam attacks and tormenting howl nearly spell the end of Ethan and Nenia. Luckily the party is able to flank the creature and win the war of attrition of blows.
When the demon dies the crystal on the altar bursts into a million pieces causing massive damage to the entire group – but everyone lives. They notice that Jaryn’s cult necklace has dissipated and yet he still lives. A look of peace lies on his unconscious face.
When he awakes he thanks the group. He had somehow slowly been possessed by the madness of the demon. As the realization of the atrocities he was responsible for sank in he was barely able to speak. He did however tell the party that they needed to seek Alara in a small town called Lakeview in the southern part of the Eldeen Reaches. He would accompany then there out of duty and thanks.
The group found some nice loot in the treasure room behind the altar. They also exited the temple to find that the throng of people living there was slowly departing in peace.
About a month later they arrive in Lakeview and meet with Alara. The information presented there will be in a follow-up post.

Recap #15 - The Pillars of the Night

2009-01-06T20:03:00.002-05:00

When leaving the village Glasur tells the group that he thought he saw something behind them along the treeline. He couldn’t tell what it was but he wasn’t concerned since the brush was so dense that no one could follow them on foot.
Turns out he was wrong. Their pursuer caught up with them two night later – it was Jaryn’s companion Dajani.
The Tielfing Darkblade turned out to be a tough battle on his own. He teleported frequently and was able to turn invisible. In the end though the party subdued him and tried to get information.
They hadn’t really gathered much other than defiant rantings about the power of Naarash when the tielfing teleported away and disappeared. (But not before he was relieved of his boots of striding and some monetary rewards.
Two days later Glasur tells the group that his vessel can not take them any closer. He instructs them that they have 1 day to go on foot. He would wait for them for 1 week.
The group was able to make it along the path dressed in the garb of their fallen enemies. The next day they reached their long-awaited goal – The Pillars of the Night.
For being savage, the throng living on the temple grounds was rather trustworthy. With a little bluffing and diplomacy the PCs were able to fit right in. Over the next few days they learned that the people here were being trained in military skills. They were an army in training. They also learned that those whose skills and prowess impressed the “wardens” were sought out for the “Rite of the Eye”. i.e. For recruitment into a deathsquad.
They also learned the following:
“I was here when Jaryn was dragged up the Black March in chains. I was
here, too, when he stood atop the Dark Stairs as the Voice of Naarash.”
“Jaryn and Larkazh met between the river and the Black March. Two dozen
of Bane’s best against the paladin and his tiefling, and in the end, Larkazh was
the only one standing.”
“Larkazh’s two brothers were cut down by Jaryn’s own hand. He brought
Jaryn and Dajani back alive and to the inner temple, a sacrifice to Bane. Come morning, Jaryn walks out, Dajani one step behind him, and Larkazh’s head is in Jaryn’s hand.”
“Everything changed under Jaryn. Used to be, the death squads ran the
temple, killed each other as fast as they could. Jaryn got them under control
and made them an army.”
“The enclave at Adakmi will be the start of it. The eathens will be
nailed to their own walls and their citadel made the staging ground for Bane’s
armies as they move south.”
“Jaryn might look human, but he’s not. Bane’s blood flows in those
veins. The chosen one, he is.”
“The fall of Nerath was the first sign. The gods of light have been
broken and have left this world to Bane. The dark god’s hand squeezes shut, and when it opens, only the chosen will remain.”
“Bane’s voice speaks through Jaryn, and his word welcomes the darkness
of a new age. He is the god arisen, Naarash’s heir. The strong shall inherit
this world, while the weak shall fall before them and be lost."
4 days later they were approached by the wardens and informed that they would be taking the Rite of the Eye in the morning.
As the group was ascending the steps in the morning a cry rang out from behind them. It was the escaped doppelganger on horseback screaming to “Stop the imposters!”. The group quickly ascended the stairs and slammed the temple doors shut, barring them.
The group had nowhere to go but into the depths of the temple.
Up the first stairs they came across two doors – Hall of Faith and Hall of Warriors. The Hall of Faith was magically locked so the group entered the door on the left. Inside they encountered animated suits of armour called Steel Keepers. After a hefty battle the group reduced the tin cans into piles of rubbish. They also found a secret door into a hall beyond.
Going left led to a caved in hall. Going left led them to a door. All along the hall were ancient writings in Giant. One area was recently plastered and written over with goblin runes.
To the south the group found a door. Ethan unlocked it but set off the Glyph of Warding. Inside the room were 3 zombie hulks. This battle proved to be quite a challenge for the group – especially when the zombie rose again after falling the first time. However in the end the PCs were victorious only to discover that there was no exit in this room either. They seemed to have hit a dead end so to speak.

Recap #14 - The Black March

2009-01-06T20:02:00.001-05:00

The party headed out of town using Shandra’s map as a guide.
3 days later they were preparing camp in an abandoned ruin when a paladin came crashing through the brush. His description matched Jaryn’s.
Turns out it was a group of assassin doppelgangers sent to take you out. Word of your quest has been travelling ahead of you. You bested 2 of the 3 assassins but the 3rd got away.
True to Shandra’s map, 4 days later you find the beginning of the pass into the mountains known as the Black March. Your guide bids you adieu.
A few days along the path you are attacked by a group of shadowhounds. Some good tactics help you best these teleporting hunters.
2 days later the group finds that the path opens into a large valley. In the distance they see their path go passed a walled citadel. Not knowing what to expect here the group debates for many hours (seemed like it in real life too!) about how to handle it. Eventually Ethan sneaks up under the cover of darkness and discovers that the walls of the citadel are hung with the corpses of Naarash’s followers. They group decides to present themselves to the gates and, after informing the gatekeepers that they are enemies of Naarash, they are quickly let in.
The citadel is known in the area as Adakmi. There seem to be roughly 2000 people within its walls. After resupplying themselves the group looks for information as to what to expect at the Pillars of the Night. They are told that taking the path there would be suicide. They need to find a moonboat. They also hear rumours of a paladin and his tiefling friend passing north along the path several weeks earlier.
Unsure of what a moonboat actually is, the group follows some leads and are met by a dwarf named Glasur. He informs the group that he can take them north in his moonboat – which is a boat drawn by two large dire pike strong enough to pull a boat upstream through the mountains.
Plans are quickly made and the group meets Glasur the next morning. For 6 days they make steady progress (about 20 miles per day). They come across several burnt out villages. On the 6th day they round a corner and see the sky darkening with smoke. Glasur thinks it a Deathsquad attack on a village.
The group gets closer and disembarks. They do indeed find a village under attack. They manage to fight off the dragonborn soldiers, a mage, and a bugbear strangler. Nenia even manages to somehow get the bugbear to garrot himself while standing in a fire!!!!
After the battle the surviving villagers thank the group, let them keep the diadem of acuity from the mage, and confirm that they also saw a paladin and his companion pass north seeking to kill the leader of the cult. They said he looked half-mad.

Searching For Jaryn

2008-12-17T09:53:00.003-05:00

Ethan stood at the bow of the Urchin's Pride. Seamist spraying him with every crest of the waves. The Soarwind vessel's progress through the sea was rhythmic, it had a hypnotic pace to it. Ethan reflected on the difference between the Elemental Airship he had been on only weeks before and the Urchin's Pride. Both he knew took skill to pilot, but the Pride also took teamwork.

Glancing up at the rigging Ethan could see several crew trimming the sails to adjust for changes in the wind. This work was necessary to keep the ship working at an optimal level. Every man played a part in keeping the vessel working, unlike the airship's that House Lyrander possessed. Those were reliant on Dragonmarked Heir's dominating the elemental that powered the ship. Ethan had no doubt they were difficult to pilot, but there was no team element in the success.

With a sigh Ethan returned his gave to the waves crashing against the Urchin's Pride. He had been disgruntled of late. The encounter with Tharunn hadn't gone well. After the boy had run off Ethan had looked for him, with no success. Tharunn had disappeared. Eventually, Ethan's companions had said it was time to move out. The thought that the boy was alone in Flamekeep left Ethan feeling hollow.

Arriving in Merylsward several days later the party quickly found accommodations and set about the task of locating Jaryn. Distancing himself from the party Ethan quickly scouted out the less than reputable locations of the town. Knowing that the individuals he was seeking out wouldn't likely be interested in talking to a Kinght of the Flame. Aundair and Thrane had battled heavily during the last war, and the people of the Eldeen Reaches had seen some of that aggression. Though he had missed an encounter with the cultists, Ethan had learned some valuable information about Jaryn and where he may have been headed.

The party had been searching for Jaryn for over 40 days. So far the search hadn't resulted in much new information. The weather was bad, with fresh snow falling daily. Visibility was poor as the wind lashed out and blew the snow around. Ethan walked out front of the party leading the way. A rope lashed the party together so they wouldn't loose each other in the blinding blizzard.

The going was slow as Ethan methodically tested the ground in front of him. For every step he took he pierced the ground before him with a staff, ensuring there were no sink holes. So close to the Demon Wastes the terrain was treacherous with jagged cliffs and steep inclines. The party didn't want to find themselves up to their heads in snow. This had been the routine for weeks now and the party was clearly exhausted with the pace. Only Braddoc's military training had kept them going this long.

As Ethan moved methodically forward, the party trailing him by twenty feet he heard a loud crack. Freezing in place Ethan looked for the source of the noise. The blinding snow provided no clues. Ethan was about to continue forward when the ground fell out from under him.

Arms flailing Ethan fell and was swung by the rope tethering him to Braddoc. The wind was knocked out of him as he slammed into a cliff face. As he hung from the rope Ethan was glad he had taken Nenia's suggestion and used the rope. He felt himself being raised up and that's when the rope snapped, sending him plummeting down the cliff face.

Reaching for his dagger Ethan plunged it into the icy cliff praying Olladra hadn't abandoned him yet. The dagger found it's mark and Ethan's progress downwards came to a jarring halt. Ethan hand no idea how far he had fallen, the blizzard was obscuring all sight beyond 10 feet. Pulling another dagger out Ethan began pulling himself up. Using the daggers as spikes he drove them into the icy cliff face and pulled himself up.

Ethan didn't know how long he had been climbing for. Feeling had abandoned his fingers long ago and his left leg was tingling. It was sheer will power that had kept him going, but Ethan knew that wouldn't last for much longer. He was loosing the battle. Drawing upon the magic in his gloves Ethan felt a surge of strength and continued his ascent with renewed vigor.

Delian stood at the edge of the cliff. It had been almost an hour since Ethan had plunged over the edge. The party had given up searching. They had all agreed it was too dangerous to climb down after Ethan. Truth be told, Ethan was the only party member qualified to even attempt the climb. They had to face the facts, the elements had bested them and they'd lost one of their own. Delian said a silent prayer for his fallen friend and turned to return to the others. That's when he heard it, a scraping sound. Surely the weather was playing tricks on him. Yet, there it was again. Moving carefully forward Delian approached the noise. As he arrived at the ledge he looked down only to see a gloved hand drive a dagger into the ice and pull its owner over the cliff.

Sterling stood waiting for Delian to return so the party could continue. Ethan's death was unfortunate and he would miss Rogue, but the party needed to press on. Looking towards the Paladin Sterling watched as he dragged a body over the cliff face. Running forward Sterling arrived at the scene. Ethan lay at the Paladins feet, his exposed skin blue with cold. Worse Ethan's left leg was mangled and bloody. Looking over the edge Sterling saw a trail of blood running down the cliff.

Calling to Jonathon the Warforged hoped that his friend wasn't past saving.

Back in Merylsward

2008-12-15T22:57:00.002-05:00

16 Olarune
A bitter wind made the candles flicker as the door to the make-shift temple opened. Emesha looked up from her meditations to see a tiefling quietly shut the door and step into the room. Years of experience instantly warned her that there was more to this man than met the eye. However the Flame within her heart called her to treat everyone with respect – if not wariness.

“Well met,” she said as she rose from her mat. Her companions had already made their way to their bunks in anticipation of tomorrow’s journey back into the wilderness. A month was far too long to be holed up in this place while the cult moved throughout the lands. “How can the Flame be of service to you?”

The tiefling smiled. It seemed genuine enough. “I have traveled far to come to this place. It is my hope to find a champion of your faith in this town. He is known as Jaryn. Do you know of his whereabouts? I am in urgent need to speak with him.”

Emesha held the emotion from her face. This was the second time in a month that Jaryn’s location had been sought after. What had he got himself into? It must be important for people to follow him half way across Khorvaire. “I do not know where he is. I have not had contact with him in a few months – not that I think it is any of your business. What do you want with him warlock?” She could tell by the slight raising of his eyebrow that she had guessed his attire correctly.

“I only wish to seek his assistance in locating an item I am seeking. I believe he has knowledge of where it may be located.” He paused. “Not that it is any of your business good cleric.”

A moment of silence passed between them as the tiefling took in the room. He took a step toward one of the torches and warmed his hands. Emesha thought she saw the flames actually reach toward the warlock. She shook her head. It was time for this one to leave. A sense of unease filled her heart.

“You are correct. It is none of my business…” she paused.

“Skamos” he said without turning his head.

“Skamos.” She continued. “However you are not the first one seeking my comrade and the others have quite a head start on you.” Her mind reeled. Why had she said that? Dread filled her heart. This warlock was up to something. There was no way she would have divulged information like that willfully to someone like this. She started toward the rear of the room. She needed to get some assistance. If she could reach the door she could easily raise the alarm.

Suddenly her body immobilized and her mind shrieked as a sudden blast of pain tore through her mind. The warlock was looking at her now. Somehow he was tearing memories from her. Back through the previous weeks they flashed until they settled on Jonathon and his comrades.

“Ah.” he said. “It seems that my friends are more astute than even I gave them credit for. No matter. I must admit that I was not relishing a cold journey through lands ruled by narrow-minded nature lovers. They have saved me a trip. I thank you for your assistance Emesha.”

---------------------------------------------------------------------

In the morning they found the door of the temple ajar and Emesha’s frozen corpse lying in front of the altar of the temple. There was no sign of a struggle.

Information Gathered

2008-12-12T21:30:00.003-05:00

Information learned from Emesha in Merylsward:
Who is Jaryn?
"Jaryn is a stalwart of our faith and a veteran of countless campaigns against the cult. He and a group loyal to him undertook a mission a year ago that would have struck a mortal blow at the heart of Naarash."

What was Jaryn’s mission?
"While our order defends the villages of the frontier, Jaryn and four companions sought to take the battle to the heart of the cult. Naarash’s faithful are based in a great temple in the Moonsfall Mountains. The Pillars of Night, they call it. Jaryn swore to break the cult by destroying its leaders."

What happened to Jaryn and his group?
"Our last contact with Jaryn was a sending ritual four weeks ago that placed him deep in the borderlands at the head of a trail he called the Black March. We have had no further word."

Who else was in Jaryn’s party?
"Four faithful of Pelor—Andressa and Annika, sister-clerics of our order; the fighter Kelma; and Dajani, a tiefling sworn to the Flame's cause."

Who is Naarash? What is the Hand of Naarash?
"Naarash is said to be a hobgoblin prophet of Bane but no history speaks of that name. The Hand of Naarash arose as a hobgoblin cult five years past, though it now counts all of the borderlands’ races among its members."

What activities does the cult engage in?
"They prey on the most isolated frontier villages for converts and spoils. Townsfolk are given the choice of joining the Hand or accepting the salvation of death."

Why do you need our help?
"Our own operatives are too well-known among the cultists. Two groups have tried already to follow Jaryn’s path. Neither returned. Acapable party unknown to the cult might succeed where others have failed."

Information and rumours found in the frontier:
"I saw this paladin of yours. He and his group were headed west. I told him all he’d find west was cult trouble. He was smiling as they rode off."

"The Hand’s enforcers were always after silver and gold, but that’s changed. More of their death squads are on the hunt for arms and magic now."

"Used to be, the cult’s hobgoblins were thugs that a strong threat and a pitchfork could drive off. Now, they fight like soldiers."

"We were hit by the Hand twice in the past year. Your Jaryn and his group came through, told us not to worry about the Hand no more. Cult came back just the same."

"I never saw him, but I heard about him from three different villages northwest. Jaryn and his band of Pelor faithful were going after a Hand chieftain named Larkazh—foulest hobgoblin Hell ever spawned."

"Heard about a fight between the paladin and a force of Hand members come down from the north to hunt him. Didn’t see it, but the crows were thick over the hills."

"That fight was eight months back. Naught there but hobgoblin bones now and three cairns on the field, each capstone painted with the Silver Flame."

"I heard a story from a refugee family out of the Harsmad that met a holy knight of the Flame. Said he looked like a wild man—mud and brambles in his hair, a string of hobgoblin teeth around his neck."

"Caravan of refugees came through four months past on its way south Refugees said they met a knight heading the other direction. Shared a campsite with him. Said he preached the faith of the Flame. When they woke up, he was gone. But there by the fire was his gear—armor, shield, and all. He took his sword and waterskin and naught else, heading straight for the heart of the hills and the Moonsfall Mountains beyond."

Clothes Make the Cultist
All the cultists you have faced wear the symbol of Bane— either painted in black on a loose-fitting gray tunic (worn over leather armor if applicable), or painted directly onto heavier armor.

Recap #13 - The Group Reaches Out...

2008-12-08T17:22:00.003-05:00

The party opted to take the Soarwind ship to Merylsward. It took 13 days and cost each member 64 gp. (Be sure to deduct it from your gold)
They arrive in Merylsward on 10 Zarantyr at about 4 AM.
They follow the captain’s advice and head into town to an inn he recommended. Jonathon went up the street to stay at the small Church of the Silver Flame. (If you want to call it a church. It is the Eldeen Reaches after all. More like a makeshift shrine than anything. The only reason it is tolerated is because they have been assisting the local refuges.)
After a few hours rest the group begins the quest to find out where Jaryn might be located. Several inquires within the town divulge the following:

The area outside the town wall known as “The Pits” is swelled to capacity with refugees fleeing the frontier lands. A cult known as the Eye of Naarsh has been recruiting members – or “saving” those who refuse to join.
Jaryn had been in town a number of weeks back. He had arrived via an airship with 4 companions. After a short stay he headed west into the frontier to deal with the cult once and for all.

Assuming that the group would be heading into the frontier the party stocked up on some supplies and Sterling looked into hiring a tracker to help them navigate the lands.
With no other leads within the town, the party headed into The Pits under the pretense of assisting the Silver Flame people with doling out food and clothing to the refugees.
A short time later the party found themselves near the western edge of the camp when they heard screams of terror and saw people fleeing toward the town gates. A cult death squad (as the locals called them) was raiding the edge of the encampment.
Quickly the group jumped into action and (quite a while later) they were able to defeat the mage, 2 guards, and 2 bandit humans. Jonathon’s attempts to rescue a refuge trapped under a fallen tent were thwarted when he inadvertently killed the unlucky soul with an area blast spell.
The group killed all but one of the attackers. However when they removed a curious necklace made of a ring with a red gem in the centre from around his neck, the gem dissolved and the captive died.
As the battle ended a half dozen battle-ready people ran into the camp seemingly in pursuit of the now-dead assailants. Emblazoned on their gear was the mark of the Silver Flame.
Their leader – a female human named Emesha – thanked the party for their assistance. They had been tracking the death squad for 3 days. She asked if she could meet the party later to discuss some matters of import. The party agreed to meet her at the inn around the dinner hour.
During the meeting Emesha informed the party that she was a cleric of the Silver Flame. She was specifically of an order called the Light of the Sun. They were dedicated to fighting the Hand of Naarsh as the cultists have named themselves. She wants the party to try and find the location and/or fate of a champion of the Flame named Jaryn (dun-dun-dun!) His mission was to strike at the heart of the cult by taking out their leaders. However, it seems they lost contact with him several weeks ago. He simply stopped replying to their periodic sending rituals.
(I’ll put the specific info learning in another post.)
The party was able to hire a tracker and they set out the following day. (12 Zarantyr)
For the next several weeks the group wandered the frontier looking for signs of Jaryn and his party. They came across a number of small hamlet and farmhouses dotted throughout the region. While most people were reluctant to talk to the group simply out of fear of reprisal from the Cult, a number of them were able to provide the group with hints and rumours.
(Again, I’ll put the specific info learning in another post.)
Finally, one dusk, they arrived in a very small village called Erstlin in the NW of the Eldeen Reaches – almost on the foot on the mountains marking the border of the Demon Wastes. Here they were met by the town’s leader named Perren Auldwyl. He was polite and offered a place to stay for the night but forbid the party to ask about the Cult. He seemed adamant that the town was able to walk the line with the Cult and they didn’t want to stir up trouble.
However trouble found them. They group was surrounded and attacked in Perren’s home. 2 Bugbear warriors, 2 hobgoblin archers, and a hobgoblin warcaster laid a beating on the group. However they were able to overcome their adversaries and were rewarding with a +2 magic rod that the warcaster was carrying. Their attire confirmed that they were members of the Eye of Naarsh.
The party was able to revive the unconscious Perren and learn the following information:

Perren rubs his head and says “Unless you’re planning to stick around to take on the group that comes looking for this one, you ain’t done us no favors.” Auldwyl pulls aside the curtain to the bedroom, showing the crates stacked there. He opens one, revealing a brace of black-fletched arrows. Another crate contains longswords, and a third is packed with steel helmets.

“The Hand is running weapons north,” the old man says quietly. “Erstlin’s a stop-off point, last town short of the wilds. We give their smugglers free run of the town, the Hand leaves us alone. You folsk will have to clear out at first light.”

The next day the party followed Perren through the village. To their surprise the place was a bustle of activity. It seems the story of the battle had spread through the night and the locals wanted to see the victors. As they neared the last of the small buildings a young woman steps forward.

“Name’s Shandra. Hobgoblins killed my pa when they first came. Said it was a warning. I followed them, meant to take revenge but I couldn’t keep up. But I saw where they went. I can make you a map for finding their Black March. Take my advice though. Only a fool would fight their way in. The pass is well-travelled by the Eye.”

The map leads into the mountains to the west. Your tracker says he will take you until they have found the path but no farther. The lands beyond Erstlin turn to hilled forest, offering better shelter and obviating the need for Endurance checks. Three days out, they stumble upon an ancient ruin shrouded in stunted spruce – a shrine or temple reduced to a foundation pit and a half dozen pillars among the trees. They decide to use this place a shelter for the night.

The date is 6 Therendor. (You were in the wilderness for quite some time folks.)

A Letter from Dad

2008-12-07T22:47:00.005-05:00

Braddoc,

I hope that this letter finds you well. I have sent Grandor Smithhammer to Sharn to make contact with you. He should be there on the 7th of Zarantyr. I ask that you meet with him upon his arrival. He will be in Sharn on family business with the local Houses. Please make yourself available to assist him on this important family deal. He can elaborate further in person.

Yours in Steadfastness,

Bradforn,
Chief of the Stoneshields

Father,

The next time you want to check up on me, come yourself.

Your Son in Exile,

Braddoc

Merylsward

2008-12-06T11:28:00.003-05:00

I'm going to take a small liberty as DM in regards to Merylsward. I am going to say it is much closer to the water than it looks on the map. Here is a description I found on the Interweb that I will use as a description.

Located to the far north of the Eldeen Reaches, by the Eldeen Bay, the town is situated on an open area of land approximately 30 miles east of The Towering Wood.

Originally a frontier fort to protect the farmers in the region, the town grew with the families of the guardsmen and various support facilities. The town grew slowly until House Vadalis established an estate there. The town swelled in size, stabilizing on todays population of about 1200. A city wall was erected on the insistence of House Vadalis, constructed from locally mined granite. While the city itself may seem gray and dour, the inside of the buildings are usually quite colorful.

Merylsward has a small dock area down by the Eldeen Bay. A steep ridge separates the city and the docks, accessible through a set of stone stairs predating the city, a lift constructed and operated by House Cannith, and a road traversing the ridge about a mile to the south.

The town is highly seasonal. During summer and fall the city swells with seasonal workers helping with the spawning, hunters, traders from the Lhazaar Principalities and people wanting to earn money on those. These people take up residence in the Pens, an area outside the city walls consisting of tents, semi-permanent and quickly built structures. The Pens contain huge markets where someone can get their hands on just about anything during the season.

A Chat With Tharunn

2008-12-05T19:47:00.001-05:00

Gulls squawked as they hovered over the harbour of Flamekeep, circling above waiting for an errant fish to slip off one of the many skiffs currently unloading its cargo. The dock district smelt just like the dock ward in Sharn. Located throughout the ward were all the businesses that other’s didn’t want to see or smell. The lowest of the low lived in this ward and Ethan knew it. He also knew that those who lived in palaces up above needed those who lived so far beneath them, whether they wished to recognize that fact or not.

The walk through the dock district was pleasant. Tharunn carried the conversation pointing out landmarks and favorite locations. He pointed out to Ethan the first place he ever stole food, his face turned red as he realized what he just said. Ethan just chuckled and thought of the first loaf of bread he ever stole. Truth be told he was rather fond of the boy and that was part of the problem.

After Tharunn had gone to bed the evening before Ethan had sat around as his companions planned their next move. Ethan couldn’t care less where they travelled, so long as he had the opportunity to practice his craft. He’d been working on some new maneuvers that he wanted to try out. He’d sat back and let the others debate the merits of the choices set before them. One thing had become abundantly clear, Tharunn wouldn’t be travelling with them any further. The task of breaking the news had fallen to Ethan and he still hadn’t figured out what to say.

Tharunn hadn’t spoken with Braddoc since the boy felt the dwarven warrior abandoned him when the dragon attacked. Ethan didn’t want the boy to feel betrayed again; he’d lost enough over the past weeks. It was something Ethan was familiar with and it had taken him years to finally find a new home. Tharunn had latched onto the party quickly, adopting them as his new family. Ethan dreaded the task ahead. Six take the others for leaving the task to him.
Stopping at a merchant’s stall Ethan purchased fresh fish and crisped potato’s for the two of them. Ethan continued to listen to the boy as he talked with a full mouth. Finding themselves at the beach Ethan began skipping stones into the bay. Looking down at a stone in his palm he figured now was as good a time as any.

“We’re leaving Flamekeep tomorrow,” Tharunn’s ear’s perked up at the news. “It’ll be dangerous, we’re heading after Jaryn. We feel it’s our best chance to figure out what’s been going on.”

Tharunn was obviously excited about the prospect of further travel, “That’s great! I’ve got my bag all packed, I’m ready to go. You don’t need to worry about me.”

Ethan chuckled, “I know Tharunn, you’re a smart kid and you know how to handle yourself. You’ve grown a lot over the past few weeks. I’m proud of you.”

Tharunn glowed as the comment was delivered. “I won’t let you down Ethan, you can count on me.”

The look on Tharunn’s face was serious, far too serious for a boy so young. “I know Tharunn”. Ethan sighed, here it comes he thought. “Unfortunately the others don’t feel that way. They worry that you might be a liability to the group; that you might get in the way.”

“That’s not true” the boy protested. “You told ‘em didn’t you Ethan? You told ‘em I could hold my own didn’t you?”

“I did Tharunn and I know you’d be a valuable addition to the party.” Ethan paused, his face clearly showing his frustration.

“What is it Ethan?” Tharunn asked.

“The others are right Tharunn; you are too young to travel with us. Your uncle Dourstone would tan my hide if I let you come with us. You understand don’t you?” Ethan clearly didn’t know where to go from here; he could see the disappointment written on the boy’s face. “I want to give you something Tharunn. You’ve proven yourself to be fairly good with a dagger, it’s time you had a good blade. My first dagger was given to me when I was a little older than you. It was given by ah, a friend of my mother’s.” Ethan fought hard to control the anger that was rising from within. “This dagger has been my most prized possession for many years. It carries with it many memories and lessons. Lessons I learned the hard way. I want you to have it and when you’re ready I promise that you can join us on this adventure. Do we have a deal?”

Letter from Ragnolin

2008-12-05T09:38:00.003-05:00

The gnome entered Thelio's waiting chamber. Thelio's assistant easily recognized the symbol of the House Sivis upon the lapel of the delivery man.

"I have a message for the warforged named Sterling."

His face showed no emotion as he waited patiently for Thelio's assistant to retrieve the warforged from his musings.

"Are you the one known as Sterling?"

"I am." replied the warlord.

The gnome's eyes glazed as he spoke a quick incantation beneath his breath. Whatever it was he did it seemed to satisfy Sterling's claim. He handed over a sealed note, nodded, and left.

"Thank you Reeson." he said to the butler. He opened the letter and read it to himself. No emotion showed upon his face as he took in the information it contained. When he was finished he turned and went to seek the others. They needed to hear this.

Hail respected members of the Clifftop Adventurer's Guild,
In my last letter I told you I would help you in any manner I could. To that end I wanted to update you on some information and happenings that pertain to your current situation.
The elf, Kal'ser, who hired my dear friend Kartenix and his group is here in Sharn. He came to see me late the other evening. He was concerned that he had not received the item and was looking for an update on its status. After learning of the fate of his employees his mood seemed to darken. Aside from his obviously sincere condolences, he was very concerned that two of the items now seem to be in the hands of the tiefling Skamos. He wishes to extend the contract that was drawn up with Kartenix. Upon retrieval of both stolen items he will not only make good on the gold promised Kartenix and such, he will double that amount. He would not name the amount of the payment. My years of experience in dealing with these types of folk tell me he is holding back information but I do believe that he is honest in his offer.

I did not tell him that I have already asked you to follow up for the Guild's sake. A shrewd adventurer would consider this an opportunity to make additional profit for something they were goig to do anyway. Of course, the choice to do anything is yours.
Enclosed is a letter of credit for 100 gold to help cover the cost of your stay in Flamekeep.
It is my hope that I receive word from you regarding your next move.

Ragnolin Dourstone.

Delian’s Observations - Homecoming

2008-12-03T13:44:00.000-05:00

19 Vult

I’ve heard many veterans speak of a euphoria they experience when returning home after a long campaign, but it wasn’t until I got off the lightning rail in Sigilstar that I truly understood what they meant.

Less than two years had passed since I left Thrane for Breland. But upon seeing the familiar sights, walking down the streets I travelled during my childhood, and seeing my father again that I truly realized how much I missed it all.

When in Sharn I learned to ignore the stares and insults thrown at me simply because of my nationality and my faith. Being home and being accepted allowed me to lower my guard. People smile as I walk past them. Many offer me the blessing of the Flame and wish me well. The warmth of community has reminded me just how brightly the Flame can burn.

But as I enjoy this homecoming my companions receive the flip side of the coin. Their clothes, mannerisms, and speech clearly mark them as foreigners. The sight of a warforged walking freely causes great concern for many common folk.

It seems that my own countrymen have the same dislike for my companions that the Brelish have for me. It’s funny how people of different countries can behave so similarly. Perhaps they are not as different as they all think they are.

Regalia of the Phoenix

2008-12-03T12:32:00.003-05:00

After all the research done prior to Kartenix’ expedition North, Thelio was able to tell you the following information about the items being sought.

The set consists of 4 items

Raptor’s Mask – taken from Hi’relle by Skamos. Said to give bonuses to sight and to protect the wear from conditions such as blindness.
Crown of Flames – taken from Delver’s Dale by Skamos via Sinruth
Talon Scepter – location unknown
Phoenix Cloak – location unknown

He also tells you the following lore regarding the set known as the Regalia of the Phoenix.

The regalia of the phoenix sears its story into the mind of every ambitious noble who hears it. It made its first fiery appearance in the possession of the Phoenix Queen, a sorcerer of tremendous power who took the throne of a long-forgotten kingdom by force. Because the Phoenix Queen possessed all the elements of the regalia, she could not be defeated, and anyone who rose against her was burnt to a cinder. After years of her vicious rule, a lover tricked her into removing her mask, pleading with her to see her face. When she pulled the mask away, revealing a face of cold beauty
untouched by remorse or sorrow, assassins rose from the shadows, and she fell beneath their many blades.
After the assassins killed the Phoenix Queen, they quarreled over the regalia. Only four survived, each taking a single piece. Fearing attempts by the others to steal their pieces, they fled the kingdom, spreading knowledge of the regalia of the phoenix to foreign lands.
The forgotten kingdom of legend was an elf-empire, and some say that the Phoenix Queen’s lover also survived the assassin’s quarrel. According to some, the lover was true to his pitiless mistress, and the assassins tricked him into asking the queen to remove her mask. Rumours persist that this elf lives still, clutching to life despite his extreme age and the call of his ancestors, hanging on with the inhuman strength that only a thirst for vengeance can give. It’s said he seeks any who would dare profit from the assassin’s foul deed by using any piece of the regalia. When he finds them, he snuffs out their lives as calmly as one might blow out a candle.

Current Timeline

2008-12-03T12:13:00.003-05:00

Just so we know where we are at in terms of the date:

8 Vult - Sinruth’s trial
9 Vult - Received letter from Ragnolin
11 Vult - Left Delver’s Dale
11-18 Vult - Travelled by horse to Hatherill
18 Vult - Arrived in Hatherill, got on the Lightning Rail
18-19 Vult - Lightning Rail to Sigilstar
20 Vult - Lightning Rail to Flamekeep
20-25 Vult - Investigating in Flamekeep

The date you arrive in the Eldeen Reaches depends on the mode of transportation you choose.

Travelling to the Eldeen Reaches

2008-12-03T08:28:00.002-05:00

24 Vult

Assuming that overland travel is not an option, we’ll have to travel by air or sea.

Taking an airship is prohibitively expensive and I don't think we can afford it. Although the journey to Merylsward can be covered in just over 1 day it would cost us 600 gp each. I know I cannot afford that.

That means we travel by sea. And as with the airship, cost will be a huge factor for us. The two options that fall into our price range are a traditional sailing ship or soarwood sailing ship. Neither typically has any ties to House Lyrandar and as such are not powered by elemental and do not usually have a Lyrandar captain at the helm.

The sailing ship will take 13 days to reach Stormhome and then another 15 to reach the north coast near Merylsward. The 28 day journey will cost us 39 gp each.

The soarwood sailing ship will take 6 days to reach Stormhome and then another 7 to reach the north coast near Merylsward. The 13 day journey will cost us 64 gp each.

So for a difference of 15 gp we can cut our traveling time in half.

Since Merylsward is landlocked we’re looking at a 25 mile ride through the forest once we disembark. But even at half speed we should be able to cover this distance in 1 day.

Assuming we can all afford the 64 gp, I've got contacts in the Church who can help us find an honest and reliable captain. Once we agree on a course of action it should only take a day or two to find a suitable ship.

I can also arrange for everyone’s travelling papers. That’s another 25 gp each and is an unavoidable cost of crossing an international border.

Recap #12 - Information Overload?

2008-12-02T21:30:00.002-05:00

Lots of information to absorb from this recap!
After reading the letter from Ragnolin Dourstone the party decided it was time to do some information gathering. They talked to Tharunn, Sertanian, and Sinruth. Here is the information in no particular order:

Tharunn’s details and info on the NPCs

Tharunn had been born in Sharn. In fact he spent the first 2 years of his life within the guildhouse.
He moved to Flamekeep when he was 2 and lived within the church while he father was away. His mother died at birth.
He had been travelling for about a month with his father. They were taking the scenic route to Sharn so that Kartenix could teach him about travel and general wilderness survival.
They had been beset by wererats and his father contracted filth fever. That is why he was in bed in the inn during the original hobgoblin raid.
He knows the following people:
Kartenix (human fighter) usual travel companions were:
Hi’relle – Halfling Ranger was killed by Skamos and relieved of the item he was carrying.
Dylol – Gnome Wizard
Tassad – Human Cleric - Both Dylol and Tassad were found dead in the Silver Mug Inn where they had been staying. Evidence of a battle indicates they died fighting.
Hovet – Half-Elf Bard went missing around the same time Dylol and Tassad were killed.
Jaryn Votuur – Human Paladin of the Silver Flame was a long time friend of Kartenix. Tharunn speaks highly of him as Jaryn taught him to read.
Thelio – dwarf who owns an extensive library of old books and historic data. Tharunn is fond of him as the old dwarf has taught him many lessons based on history.
Kristoff – Human mage who was helping Kartenix research information on his latest mission. Not many people like him as he has the social graces of a bugbear. He never smiles, is snobby, and very matter-of-fact.

Info from Sertanian

Sertanian checked records. Didn’t think it was magical. Been on display for so long. No one has touched it in decades.
In 816 YK, Elmen Von Jallach obtained the helm after a great battle against the goblinoids in the area.
It is said the power of the crown helped the leader of the goblinoids to bring the tribes together.

Info from Sinruth

Delian promised to ensure Sinruth’s last days were as comfortable as possible.
Sinruth wants revenge on Skamos for leaving him hanging
Only reason PCs weren’t swarmed by the crypts denizens was that Skamos wouldn’t allow it. Almost like the tiefling was testing the PCs.
Skamos had promised Sinruth leadership over all the regions hobgoblin tribes in exchange for his assistance in raiding the town.
Found it amusing that after countless battles his bodyguard Gorax was essentially hugged to death.
Only request was to be buried with his weapon.

Details on Kartenix’ recent job

Group was hired by elf named Kal’ser to obtain an artifact from a ruins on the edge of the Demon Wastes.
They were successful in obtaining and returned to Flamekeep to retrieve payment.
Thelio told them it was a Mask known as the Raptor’s Mask. Not sure of full powers but knows it help you see better and helped protect the wearer from effects that obscured vision.
Old temple in the North of the Eldeen Reaches. It was in the possession of a viscious Mezzodemon named Harkulith. They are known for hording treasure. How the group managed to retrieve the item from him and his lackeys remains a mystery to Thelio.
When they got to Flamekeep they were given a note requesting the item be moved secretly to Sharn.
They were asked to avoid air and rail travel as those modes of transportation were being watched.
Kartenix and Tharunn took the opportunity to make the trip together so Kartenix could teach his son about the wilderness.
Hi’relle was given the item since he was most familiar moving stealthily through the wilderness if it was required.
Other 3 members stayed in Flamekeep to keep up appearances that item was remaining there.

Info Learned in Flamekeep

Kristoff seems to have taken an expedition to somewhere in the Talenta Plains.
Jaryn left Flamekeep 3 weeks ago with his 4 usual party members. Seems he made a promise to help fight a cult uprising in the Eldeen Reaches.
Tharunn actually came through for the group and found out that Jaryn must have been in a rush as he pulled in some favours within the church and made use of an airship to get to Owl’s Perch. From there he was heading to Merylsward.
Before you guys leave Flamekeep you receive a message from Delver’s Dale that a hobgoblin raiding party managed to sneak in and free Sinruth two days prior to his execution. 4 guards were killed in the escape. Nothing has been seen or heard from him since.
Info on the Regalia of the Phoenix is in another post.

Encounter in the Wilderness

En route to Flamekeep the group had a run in with a young green dragon.
Nenia managed to hide herself, Braddoc, and Delian with the magic candle but failed to include Tharunn who assumed he'd been abandoned. He no longer trusts those three.
Sterling struck a deal with the dragon. In exchange for safe passage he gave the dragon his Amulet of Health +1, 300 gp, and a horse.
The deal was almost blown by Braddoc who REALLY wanted to fight the scaley beast.
The incident strained some relationships within the group. Tharunn lost all respect for Braddoc as his father had always stressed that the only way to survive was to work as a team. One loose conductor stone can bring a whole train crashing down as Hi'relle used to tell him.

Delian’s Observations - The Green Dragon

2008-12-02T09:35:00.003-05:00

14 Vult

I’ve read of dragons and seen illustrations in books, but never did I expect to see one with my own eyes. The dragon we encountered must have been very young because it stood only three times the height of a man. Only three times! I say it like it’s not still a tremendous size for any living creature.

I credit the quick thinking of Nenia and Sterling for our survival. I know Braddoc wanted to fight the creature, and I’m sure he could have dealt it a tremendous blow, but cooler heads prevailed in the end. The use of the magic candle to hide most of the group, and Sterling’s decision to talk to the intelligent beast allowed us to survive the encounter unscathed. The material costs were high but how can anyone put a gp value on a life.

I don’t know if I would have been able to keep my cool and composure in the face of such power. I feel I owe Sterling a debt of thanks and have told him so. In the short-term I have given him 100 gp to ease his material loss. But I feel that there is still a great debt that has gone unpaid and I look to the Flame to provide me guidance as I seek the appropriate means to repay him.

Jonathon's Wish List

2008-12-02T04:13:00.001-05:00

Weapons
(1) Long Sword +1 [360gp]
(2) Long Sword +2 [1,800gp]
Currently no magic weapon.

Armor
Happy for now with what I have+3 would be nice :)

Arms
(1) Bashing Shield (1,000gp)
(2) Guardian Shield (Level 10)

Neck
(1) Amulet of Protection +1 [360gp]
(2) Cloak of Resistance +1
(3) Cloak of Resistance +2

Head
(1) Horned Helm [1,800gp]
(2) Goggles of Night (Level 14)
(3) Helm of Ghostly Defense (Level 22)

Potions
(1) Potion of Healing - A bunch[50gp]

Waist
Iron Skin Belt [1,000gp]

Wondrous Items
Dimensional Shackles (Level 17)

Character Sheet - Level 5 (Jonathon)

2008-12-02T03:34:00.005-05:00

Level 5

Init +2
Speed: 5

STR 19 +4
CON 13 +1
DEX 11 +0
INT 8 -1
WIS 14 +2
CHA 14 +2

Hit Points = 50
Bloodied = 25
Healing Surge = 12
Surges/Day = 8

Defences:
AC = 22 = 10 +8[Chain Mail +2] +2[Shield] +2 [1/2 Level]
Fort = 17 = 10 +4[Str] +1[Human] +2 [1/2 Level]
Ref = 15 = 10 +0[Dex] +1[Human] +2[Shield] +2 [1/2 Level]
Will = 17 = 10 +2[Wis] +1[Human] +2[Class] +2 [1/2 Level]

Senses:Passive Insight: +19
Passive Perception: +14

Skills:
Acrobatics 0
Arcana 6
Athletics 3
Bluff 4
Diplomacy 9
Dungeoneering 4
Endurance 0
Heal 9
History 1
Insight 9
Intimidate 4
Nature 4
Perception 4
Religion 9
Stealth -1
Streetwise 4
Thievery -1

At Will Powers:
[1] Priest Shield
[1] Righteous Brand
[R] Sacred Flame

Encounter Powers:
[C] Divine Fortune
[C] Turn Undead
[C] Healing Word
[1] Wrathful Thunder
[3] Split the Sky

Daily Powers:
[1] Avenging Flame
[5] Weapon of the Gods

Utility Powers:
[2] ???

Ritual Book: Gentle Repose, Make Whole

Feats:
[R] Weapon Profiency (Long Sword)
[1] Shield Proficiency Light
[2] Shield Proficiency Heavy
[4] Toughness

Basic Weapon Attacks:
Long Sword +2:
Attack: +11 (+4[Str] +3[Weapon Profiency] +2 [1/2 Level] + 2 Magic )
Damage: 1d8 +6, Versatile

Javelin:
Attack: +8 (+4[Str] +2[Weapon Profiency] +2 [1/2 Level] )
Damage: 1d6 +4, Heavy Thrown

Equipment (Non Magical):
Heavy Shield
Standard Adventurer’s Kit
Lantern
Javelin x 5
Climbers Kit

Equipment (Magical):
Weapon Slot: Long Sword +2
Armor Slot: Chaim Mail +2
Item Slot: Holy Symbol +1
Feet Slot: Acrobat Boots

Braddoc's Thoughts

2008-11-30T22:10:00.000-05:00

Leadership. It's what I have been asking for Sterling and Delian to show for as long as we have been travelling together. I am now regretting it.

Cowardice. That is the type of leadership they have chosen.

Appeasers. Skulking about. This is no way for warriors and heroes to behave. Buying our way through public land, at a price immeasurably too high. Hundreds of gold and an innocent, loyal animal just to avoid combat with a puffed up reptile.

Pusillanimity. Hiding behind undue fear of loss to minor challenges.

Honour. In order to retain my honour, I may have to bid adieu to these folks. If they continue to conduct themselves as spineless syncophants they are not worthy of my companionship or friendship.

My association with them hangs in the balance.

Delian’s Observations

2008-11-28T15:18:00.001-05:00

10 Vult, 998 YK

Since rescuing Jalissa from the catacombs she has been smitten with me. Before we found her she underwent a terrible ordeal and it nearly broke her. She was fragile, vulnerable, and desperate. And then she saw me and everything changed for her. She clung to the hope that she would be rescued and that hope became reality. She felt she had lost everything, and when I freed her she felt like she needs to offer me everything she had in return. She keeps thanking me for saving her life. I have told her repeatedly that it was the efforts and heroics of many people that lead to her freedom, but she doesn’t hear any of it. I believe she thinks she’s in love with me.

Clearly the feelings stem from the circumstances of her capture and rescue. She would feel the same way about whomever she first laid eyes on. Had Braddoc gone into that room first this would be his problem and not mine.

But eleven days have past and Jalissa is still enamored with me. She has had plenty of time to show a change of heart. She is back in her home surrounded by her friends and family. She should feel safe here. She should not be acting out of character. So does that mean that she is developing genuine feelings for me? It may be naive of me to thinks so, but what if that is exactly what’s happening. I’d be a fool to turn away the advances of such a beautiful woman. She is everything I desire.

If I take the reward Jalissa is freely offering me, the people of Delver’s Dale and my own companions might think I have violated her trust. They may scorn my reciprocation of her affections. Well, that’s just something they will have to deal with. I will spend one night with Jalissa before we leave for Flamekeep. Accepting her love may seem inappropriate now, but repressing my own desires and later discovering that her feelings were genuine would make me feel stupid for a long time to come.

Correspondence - 9 Vult

2008-11-27T14:07:00.005-05:00

9 Vult

Master Dourstone,

I was surprised to receive your letter. We are doing well and resting after rescuing some prisoners from Delver’s Dale. Wait, I’m getting ahead of myself. Upon arriving in the Dale the town quickly came under attack. The group ran to assist the local militia however the attack was a diversion and several townspeople were kidnapped and priceless artifacts were stolen.

We managed to rescue all the captives but one. Unfortunately, Kartenix fought to free himself and was killed. Also, we failed to recover one of the items. A crown of some sorts, the teifling Skamos seemed to think it had great value. I feel that I have failed you, the Guild, and most importantly Kartenix. We were to escort him to Sharn and instead we allowed ourselves to become distracted.

However, this is all in the past. We will of course travel to Flamekeep, though without the information Kartenix could provide I feel that we will fail again. It is a hard thing to feel so helpless.

Otherwise, things have been well. I continue to keep write my journal as you suggested. At first I was hesitant; however I believe it a good way to reflect on how I have grown. I must confess Master that I enjoy the thrill of battle in a way I could never have imagined. My thoughts run dark as I envision new ways to battle and bring down my foes. I fear I delight in the pain of my enemies too much.

I must confess I was puzzled when the boy Tharunn, Kartenix’s son, delivered your letter to me. My puzzlement turned to wonder as I noted the smaller envelope inside the first addressed only to me. As the others were present when the letter was delivered I slipped the second envelope into my bracer. I do not believe the others noticed this and having read your private letter I realize this was a wise course of action.

I thank you for sharing your discoveries with me. This brings trouble I long thought buried back to light. I will tend to these matters when I return to Sharn. If you could see to it that she is looked after, I will repay any expenses. As for justice, or perhaps my final vengeance, it will have to wait.

Regarding your final request, I will of course keep my eye out and report back to you on my findings.

Olladra guide you,

Ethan Dalruun

Delian’s Letters

2008-11-27T11:44:00.002-05:00

10 Vult, 998 YK

Greetings, father

We have returned to Delver’s Dale, our mission mostly successful. We were able to rescue seven of the eight prisoners. Unfortunately Kartenix, Ragnolin’s friend and the man we were here to meet, was killed by the monsters that inhabited the catacombs. I have no doubt that Kartenix fought bravely to free himself and his son before being killed.

Kartenix’s son, Tharunn, was greatly affected by the violent kidnapping and then by knowledge of his father’s death. He was extremely taciturn in the days following his rescue, but he is young and strong. I have no doubt that he will recover quickly. I have spent time explaining the cycle of life, death, and renewal to Tharunn. I don’t know if it’s helping him, but I know it’s the right thing to do. Having lost mother when I was a boy, I can greatly sympathize with his current situation.

Over the past couple of days he has taken a shining to the party. When he is not in the care of Jalissa, another one of the freed captives, Tharunn follows us around Delver’s dale. I’ve even seen him imitating us and pretending to be an adventurer battling monsters. I suspect that he is reenacting how he would have saved his father if he was bigger and stronger, like we are. Again I have become a reluctant role model.

I have worked with the local clergy to council the other kidnapping victims as well. My training in diplomacy and human interaction has proven remarkably effective. I have made many friends in Delver’s Dale and I know that my efforts have provided the victims with some comfort. In many cases they just needed someone they could talk to, someone who would not be judgmental. I was happy to do it and could feel the flame burning within me as I helped so many people deal with such a terrible ordeal.

We have pressing matters in Flamekeep and will be leaving in the next couple of days. Hopefully we’ll have time to stop in Sigilstar along the way. I miss you greatly and long for the familiar sights of the home.

We decided that it is best for Tharunn if he remains in Delver’s Dale in Jalissa’s care for the winter. Bringing the boy on the road is too dangerous at this point. When we depart Delver’s Dale I hope that Tharunn will not revert inward and shut himself off again. I have spent time with many of the townsfolk assuring that the boy has the love and support he will need in the coming months.

Hopefully I will see you within the next month, father. Flame keep you safe.

Aftermath of the Rescue

2008-11-26T20:55:00.004-05:00

9 Vult

After Sinruth's so-called trial, the party made their way back to the Rusty Kettle Tavern. The strains of the rescue were beginning to subside as bruises and cuts began to heal. Rest and ale can do wonders - especially when it is free of charge. Rescuing the cook of the establishment has its perks.

In the days since their return they could hardly spend a moment outside without someone singing their praises and thanking them. Jalissa made frequent visits to dote upon Delian. Each night Sertanian and Adronsius ensured that everyone in the Kettle knew of the heroic deeds of the group. Even crotchety, old Zerriksa nodded her head and thanked them. The innkeeper noted it was the most cordial thing he had seen her do in years.

Today was different. For once the group was left in peace - or so they thought.

A breathless Tharunn hurried into the main room. A quick scan of the patrons and he marched determinedly over to Ethan. "A message for you Ethan. Sealed and everything." He handed the parchment over.

As Ethan opened the letter, Sterling appraised the recent orphan. While the warforged had not known the boy prior to his rescue, he was sure that the lad had changed in the last week. More determined, sullen, and focused. The death of his father was a hard blow to take - especially for one so young. Even now he watched him gaze intently on Ethan. The lad's attachment to the rogue was incredible. The boy watched his every move. Sterling had even caught him imitating some of Ethan's attack moves one evening. While the warforged held Ethan in the highest regard, he wasn't so sure if this was what the boy needed at this time. Perhaps more of Tharunn's time should be arranged with Jalissa. At least until they could get the youngster back to the guildhall and under the care of Ragnolin.

A low whistle escaped from Ethan. "Looks like we aren't heading to Sharn." The group looked a little confused. Ethan kept them in suspense a moment until he noticed Braddoc's eyebrow raise and Nenia's face turn slightly red. Even the usually stoic Jonathon seemed ready to snatch the parchment from Ethan's hands.

"Ragnolin needs us to head to Flamekeep. Looks like we've got ourselves in up to our necks with this Skamos fella. Ragnolin wants to nip this in the bud before anyone else in the guild meets an untimely end."

Sterling put out his hand to receive the note. He read it aloud to the group.

Hail to thee.

I trust that you have all fared well and have located Kartenix by the time you read this. Some things have come to light since your departure. Based on the events, I must make an unorthodox request of your talents.

As you know all of Kartenix' previous group have either met sudden violent ends or can not be located. He can tell you more of them if wishes. We are almost certain that the circumstances surrounding these tragedies are directly tied to the recent job they performed. I am sure that you have conveyed the news of Hi'relle's death to my old friend by now. We believe this Skamos character hunted your fellow guild members down to find the location of an item they procured. I am unsure of the exact details but some information has come to light that suggests that it was part of a set of items. Sets like this are rare. The individual items contain potent enough magic but when used in conjunction they are devastatingly powerful.

It behooves me to ask you to return with Kartenix to Flamekeep. He needs to locate whatever sources of information he used to track the item down in the first place and try to determine the true threat. A reclusive historian by the name of Thelio, a paladin by the name of Jaryn, and a mage named Kristoff seem to ring a bell from my previous conversations with Hi'relle. Kartenix should be able to assist you there.

Give my regards to Kartenix and the rascal Tharunn. I look forward to seeing them when you finally get back to Sharn.

Ragnolin

Delian noted Ragnolin's seal at the bottom of the letter. "It seems we better find the best route to Flamekeep."

Braddoc's eyebrow flew up. "You holy rollers have ale there right?"

Recap #11 - Meet Sinruth

2008-11-25T20:20:00.004-05:00

Party moved east down pillared hall.

encountered a group of undead led by a Deathlock Wight. Group consisted of 2 gravehounds, a boneshard skeleton, the wight, and 5 decrepit skeletons that kept reanimated until all 5 were dead at the same time.

Sterling tried to intimidate the wight to no avail. Trading insults was fun.

Party eventually conquered the challenge and recieved some nice loot.

Went back west then north into an old shrine with an obelisk. Inside were 2 more wererats, a bugbear warrior and a sneaky little gnome arcanist. A nice bonus to the party was when the bugbear charged Ethan flinging a pew out of the way and subsequently knocked one of the wererats prone.

The party made quick work of the wererats and the bugbear but the arcanist was able to sneak away and flee. In the room was some of the missing artifacts.

Two options left to explore. The first ended up being a room with a scrying pool. Nothing overly exciting. Would have been much more useful earlier in the dungeon romp.

The second and last option was a stair leading up from where they found Jalissa. It led to a pitch black room containing several tall thin menhirs that emitted cold. While trying to determine if it was a freeze trap or something, the party threw water on and between the first two to see what would happen. At that point a door opened on the far end of the chamber and laughter echoed through the room.

It was none other then their previous aquaintance Skamos the warlock who killed Hi'relle. He held a crown of sorts in his hands. After some brief posturing he set two of his lackeys on the party and retreated back through the doors.

The lackeys were in fact Sinruth the hobgoblin leader of the raid and his bodyguard Gorax. Some well played tactics made this fight much easier than it could have been. Sinruth was unable to use his spiked chain to full effect in the midst of the menhirs and Sterling's grasps kept Gorax from being the threat he could have been. In the end Gorax was killed and Sinruth was knocked unconscious.
Skamos returned to taunt them and then retreated some once again. The party gave chase. Bursting through the last doors, they caught a last glimpse of Skamos reading a ritual from a scroll and teleporting to some unknown location.
Phats loots were found. Crown in Skamos hand turned out to be the Helm artifact they were supposed to retrieve for the townsfolk.
Party gathered the rescued hostages and headed home. On the way they collected the griffon egg from the clifface. Nenia had a particular interest in it.
Slow but uneventful journey to Delver's Dale took another 4 days putting them to 2nd of Vult upon their return.
Received quest reward for hostages. Received quest reward for items even though 1 was missing. Bringing Sinruth back alive made up for that issue.

The Best Route to Flamekeep

2008-11-25T13:54:00.005-05:00

10 Vult

Two days following Sinruth’s trial the party met in the common room of the small cottage the grateful people of Delver’s Dale graciously provided for them while they remained in town.

Delian unrolled a map of Khorvaire on the table and motioned for the others to gather round.

“Ragnolin wants us to go to Flamekeep,” he said pointing at the capital of Thrane, clearly marked with a star and labeled on the map. “Our route and method of transportation is largely dependent upon our time and our resources.” He paused a moment allowing the party to take this in. “I’ve been working with a few of the town elders to determine the best routes for our journey. We’ve come up with two options.”

“The first option is to head to Hatheril and get on the lightning rail. Which means that from Delver’s Dale we take the King’s Road South and then East to Hatheril,” Delian said as he traced the route on the map with his finger. “It’s roughly 400 mile and on horseback would take about ten days. Or we take a more direct route to Hatheril through the gap in the Greenhaunt Woods. It would reduce the distance by almost 100 miles and could save us as much as three days.”

Delian noticed a few of his companions nodding so he continued. “From Hatheril we can take the lightning rail all the way to Flamekeep. It’s a 1,400 mile journey that will take a mere two days,” he paused. “But it’s not cheap. The standard fare for each of us would be 277 gp.” Delian noticed one person fidget and heard another gasp as the enormity of the cost shocked two of his companions. “Steerage fare is a little bit more reasonable at 42 gp each, but it would be an extremely uncomfortable two days.”

Waiting for a few brief second, Delian continued. “The second option in to travel north and make most of the journey on horseback. We take the King’s road north for five days to Craigwar covering 200 miles.” Delian drew the proposed route on the map with his finger. “Then we cross the boarded into Aundair and continue North-east to Marketplace. That’s another 150 mile and will take four more days.” Delian knew that crossing into Aundair should pose no problems for the others, but his nationality and religious beliefs could generate some unwanted hostility if he ran into the wrong people. But he wasn’t going to let his fear show in front of the party.

“From there we cross into Thrane and travel cross-country to Sigilstar. That’s 310 miles as the dragon flies, or 400 if we stick to the King’s Road. Under optimal circumstances the direct path will take us eight days and keeping to the roads wil take us ten.” Delian traced his finger on the map across the flat, featureless centre of Thrane, tapping it twice on the large circle marking Sigilstar. “Once in Sigilstar we can travel the 300 miles north to Flamekeep by the King’s Road. It usually takes eight days.” At least it had on the many occasions Delian had traveled that road himself over the years. “Or we can take the lightning rail for the final leg of our journey. It’s a ten hour ride. The standard fare is 60 gp for each of us, or we can tough it out in steerage for 9 gp each.” Delian noticed the barest hint of a smile on his companion’s face at the mention of avoiding eight more days on horseback for the mere cost of 9 gp.

“This option is 17 days of hard riding to Sigilstar. From there it’s either an additional half a day by rail or eight more days on the road.” Delian pulled back from the map, standing up straight. His companions leaned a little closer to the map and took a few seconds to take in the options he just presented them with.

“Of course,” Delian said as if just remembering some insignificant detail “this is the best-case scenario I’m talking about. The harsh winter weather has just begun. As we travel north into Thrane the snow will get deeper and the wind colder.” One companion pulled their cloak a little tighter as if Delian’s mention of the cold wind had just chilled them.

“The King’s Roads are travelled all year round, minimizing the likelihood of prolonged snow build-up. Traveling the King’s Road also provides some security since it is so heavily used.” Delian paused. “Travelling by our own path makes us an appealing target to bandits or monsters,” Ethan nodded in understanding and Delian thought he detected a hint of excitement from Ethan at the possibility of fighting such enemies.

“The lightning rail is not hampered by weather.” Again, Delian paused to let his point sink in and to let the group contemplate options in their head.

Taking a breath, his demeanor serious and positive, and his voice slightly diminished to force the group to lean ever so slightly towards him to hear him clearly, Delian went on. “My recommendation and preference is to take the lightning rail from Hatheril, travelling in the steerage car. The 42 gp fare is a lot of money, but it will get us to Flamekeep the fastest.”

Delian continued in a sterner demeanor speaking clearly and a little bit more slowly. “I’m hesitant to travel across Thrane’s heartland during Vult and Zarantyr. If the weather gets really bad we could end up stranded in some small community for weeks. And if we’re unlucky and cannot find suitable shelter at all then I doubt we’ll ever make it to Flamekeep.”

“Regardless of which route we choose we’ll need to pass through Sigilstar.” Delian smiled and his body language clearly showed a more relaxed posture. “On a personal note, while we’re there I would like to visit my father. I’m sure he would like to meet all of you. I write him regularly and have been telling him of our exploits. If nothing else, it will be one night in a comfortable bed surrounded by friends and family. After days on the road or hours in steerage, I suspect a fresh meal and a warm cup of tea will sound pretty good to everyone.”

“Let’s discus which route we’re going to take. The sooner we leave the better our chances of avoiding the inclement weather.”

The Fate of Sinruth

2008-11-24T22:01:00.003-05:00

8 Vult – Delver’s Dale Council Chamber

A hushed silence descended on the crowded chamber as he was led in. Khyber take them all. He controlled the momentary flash of anger that rose in his chest.

The four days immediately following his defeat had been a blur. He couldn’t remember the exact details of how he had come to be here. Snippets of tripping, impossibly tight bonds, and meager meals floated on the edges of his mind. What he did remember in exact detail was the damnable tiefling. The emissary’s words had somehow lost their power and promise as he had trudged with these filthy creatures back to this hole of a place. He knew that he had failed the test. It nagged at him. The tiefling had used him. Test indeed. It was of little consequence whether he and his bodyguard had bested the intruders or not. The blasted warlock had already claimed his prize and secured his escape route.

He would pay someday. Revenge would be exacted. Today was not that day however.

His thoughts drifted back to his predicament. He had been held in some pit of a cell for nearly a week as far as he could figure. His guards had shown him no mercy. It was expected. He had shown none to his own prisoners. Use them for information and entertainment before turning them over to the wight. Such was the manner of their arrangement – sacrifices in exchange for use of the crypt. Simple and effective.

His head was pounding from lack of food and his beatings but he wasn’t about to show fear to these worthless beings. He held his head up high and glared at anyone foolish enough to catch his eye. Oddly enough the only creature able to return his stare for more than a few seconds was the young human who he had captured two weeks ago. Utter defiance and hatred was in the child's eyes. The hobgoblin almost felt a little respect for the orphan. Almost. A sudden jerk on his bonds snapped him back to his surroundings.

Clinking chains were the only sound as the procession stopped in the centre of the semi-circular dais upon which his apparent judges were settled. The four humans and one half-elf look down on him with a mixture of disgust and anger. If only he had his spiked chain. A quick flick of the wrist, a trip, and a stomp to the head would make quick work of these pasty aristocrats.

After a moment the half-elf spoke. “Are you the hobgoblin known as Sinruth?”

The hobgoblin’s only reply was a carefully orchestrated spit and a nod.

“Then, Sinruth, under the laws of our lands you are charged with murder, kidnapping, robbery, and general hatemongering. Should you be found guilty of these charges you shall be put to death. What say you?”

Sinruth thought for a moment. These people had already sentenced him. He could see it in their eyes and demeanor. No use in parlaying with these fools.

“I say that my only mistake was not finishing the job. Mind if I borrow my weapon for a few moments?” He spit again and leered at one of the humans on the dais.

Surprised gasps ran through the crowd. A shout of “Hang ‘em high!” echoed throughout the room. The half-elf raised his hands calling for silence. As his wish was granted he spoke again.

“I take your reply as admission of your guilt. Your fate will be determined by this council within the next few days.” His gaze moved to Sinruth’s guards. “Return him to his cell.

As he turned he caught sight of the group that had captured him. They would pay. If he had to return from the pits of hell, they would pay.

Recap #10 - Nice 'Shrooms Man

2008-11-24T21:59:00.005-05:00

Just whipping in a quick one. This is long past but I want to at least have a skeleton of what happened.

Party decided to check out the stairs going down near the entrance. Was a room full of mushrooms, 2 rage drakes, and goblin sharpshooters.
Good fight. Mushrooms did nasty things if you stepped on wrong ones, drakes and sharpshooters worked well together.
Found Zerriksa. Crusty old crone trapped in magical trap. Nenia's excellent Arcane knowledge made quick work of the trap. The party took a tongue lashing from the old bag before returning her to the rest of the rescuees.
Headed upstairs where they met an ambush of hobgoblins melee, some drakes, a hobgoblin hexer, and some crossbow turrets. Solid fight. Ended in victory after some solid tactics by the PCs. In room to the south the team found Jalissa bound to a wall. She instantly clung to Delian as he was the first one into the room. He basically has the most devoted groupie ever now.
Team headed North. At a 4-way interestion they went east. Found Thurann tied to a fountain in the dark. No monsters around that could be seen. They didn't tell him that his father was dead until he was returned to the safe area.
Team returned to intersection and was surprised by a partol of ghouls and skeletons. Undead retreated into the room they just left and slammed the door closed. Turns out they wanted to fight upon a black swirling area of negative energy that gave them regeneration 5.
Braddoc got in one of the most devastating blows of the campaign so far by dropping 3 of the undead from 1/2 hps to dead with one Sweeping Blow.
Proceeded West into t room with a raging demon. The beast seemed trapped in an invisible 20 foot square prison. On the far side was a human tied to a pillar and surrounded by dire rats. Noting that the demon was unable to get to them the group quickly split up and went around the "cage". That is when the trap was sprung. The human uttered a command word and released the demon.
When the party got closer they saw that the human was indeed a wererat. Two of the direrats changed to their bi-ped form and accosted the group.
Excellent tactics made quick work of the demon and its cronies.
That is where we ended for the night.

Trust

2008-11-19T22:57:00.007-05:00

Trust is a funny thing. I've never had much use of it until recently. I'm surrounded by new people, I dare say friends. However, trusting them hasn't been easy.

Take Larien, her beauty still enchants me. I thought of us as friends, closer in the way we battle than any of the others. Yet, she left our group without a second glance. On to greener pastures, the trust I placed in her was broken.

Jonathon is as devout as they come. However, in combat he often rushes heedlessly to save innocents. The result is that our group suffers as he's either to far for us to reach, or unable to come to our aid when we need healing. His motives are good and I don't fault him for that, but I can't trust him to be there.

Braddoc is as steadfast as they come. However, he has no patience and he swings his axe about in battle with little regard for others. He may have dropped three undead with one blow, bragging of his strength, courage and skill at arms. Olladra help me if I mentioned that Sterling, Nenia, myself and even Braddoc had hit all of them several times before they dropped. It makes me question his motives. I'm out here at Master Dourstones request, I'm not sure about Braddoc.

Nenia is an interesting one. She keeps mostly to herself and while I've benefited from her magic in battle she has shown herself to be reckless. She deliberately cast a blast spell that caught Delian in it's effects. This clear disregard for the safety of others makes me think I should keep a close eye on her, in case she needs to be removed from the fight lest she kill one of us.

Thinking of Delian, he's supposed to be a Paladin of the Flame. I look to him to be on the front lines of our battles. Yet when we fought the undead earlier not only did he not provide any information about how to defeat the foul creatures, he fought the battle from the rear. Throwing javelins, leaving the rest of us to take the damage from the foe. Though he's healed me many times in battle, with his heavy armour and formal training he should be in the forefront of battle, not the rear. I wonder if he's insecure, like me, with his abilities and that is why he hangs back.

Finally, there is Sterling. His resolve and determination are beyond reproach. I have learned that he has a deep understanding of tactics that I can't even begin to understand. However, when battles are over and we are recovering he never offers any advice. He had no words of reproach for Nenia when she blasted Delian. No words for Delian to move to the front of battle and allow his heavy armour to absorb blows. Perhaps he too isn't as confident in his abilities as he lets on.

It seems that each of my companions has great strengths, but also worrisome weaknesses. I trust each of them however, I need to be careful. I may have found a new family and place of belonging but, it doesn't mean I should let down my guard.

Braddoc' s Viewpoint

2008-11-19T19:34:00.006-05:00

I see the way they look at me now. Respect? Fear? Jealousy? One lucky blow and they change their tune. It matters not to me as long as they finally realize that I am the keystone of any battle we engage in. It took them long enough, the stories of them barely making it out of battle after battle when I am covering another task should have clued them in long before now.

Our party tactics are starting to improve to the point where we aren't always on the brink of disaster. Our after action 'discussions' are leading to smoother tactics. Now, if only one of our 'leaders' would lead instead of reacting in battle we could get ahead of the game.

I fear all of this talk about naming ourselves is getting ridiculous. We have to accomplish something before we can expect people to actually care what we call ourselves. We're still just another party of adventurers biting off more than we can chew time after time until we die a violent and messy death in some hole no one has ever heard of.

Dol Dorn help me... all of this and I still have to respond to that letter from my father.

Delian's Observations

2008-11-19T13:45:00.005-05:00

I travel with an eclectic mix of people I’m slowly, if not reluctantly, beginning to call friends. They represent different walks of life and each possesses gifts and strengths which make them unique… and in some cases dangerously powerful. And I suppose I must include myself in this apt description of our adventuring company.

Braddoc Stoneshield is definitely the most understated member of the party. In many ways he epitomizes the dwarven warrior stereotype. He is quiet, gruff and rude, and his physical strength outclasses anyone I’ve ever met. He wields his battleaxe like it is an extension of his powerful body.

I’ve watched him struggle to master fighting with such a diverse and disorganized party. I assume that before joining the Clifftop Adventurers Guild Braddoc fought side-by-side with other dwarves. Having military training myself, I understand how difficult it can be to go from fighting in formation, with everybody in the line performing their role as expected – as ordered – and the company striking with precision, to running into combat haphazardly not knowing if your companions are behind you, beside you, trying to get around you, or moving to flank the enemy. I too have adjusted my combat tactics as I got to know how every member of the party puts their skills to the best use. But it wasn’t until recently that I realized just how powerful Braddoc really is.

The party ventured cautiously down a corridor during our exploration of some old catacombs near Delver’s Dale, when a door unexpectedly opened and two ghouls and four zombies started moving into the hallway. Before the party could deliver any real damage, the intelligent undead signaled retreat, moved back into the room and closed the door. The party quickly followed. Once inside the room we saw all the undead standing on a swirling dark sun pattern in the centre of the room. An aura of evil spewed forth from the dark sun, offending all that is good, and giving the undead additional strength, power and resistance to our weapons. The party moved into the room and began fighting, attempting to rid the world of such foul mockery to life.

It was during the battle that I witnessed Braddoc display his true potential. With one mighty blow from his battleaxe he mowed down two ghouls and one zombie. He utterly destroyed the three monsters through sheer force. He was able to take down three by himself while the rest of the party worked together on the others. And as soon as he dropped those three undead, Braddoc moved to again crush one of the remaining zombies with a single strike. The awesome display of physical might and precise blows was truly something to behold.

I realize that every person has their own method of contributing. Be it a contribution to life in general or contribution to a particular situation. Braddoc Stoneshield has demonstrated beyond any doubt that his contribution to this adventuring party is the power to destroy his foes, tempered by his judgment and a desire to uphold the values he believes in. My confidence in this party’s ultimate success continues to rise knowing that Braddoc will be fighting beside us.

Delian's Letters

2008-11-18T09:16:00.000-05:00

Greetings, father

The Church of the Silver Flame takes a lot of criticism regarding its involvement in the purge of lycanthropes from Khorvaire. I’ve met many Church elders who carry the weight of the Church’s misdeeds heavily upon their shoulders. It’s so easy to look back on history and pass judgment. And for a long time I too felt some small amount of guilt for my association with any power that could deem it necessary to make it their mission to exterminate an entire race of intelligent beings. That changed today.

As we delved deeper into the caverns seeking to rescue the seven captives and recover the stolen items from Delver’s Dale I encountered actual lycanthropes for the first time. We entered a chamber and saw a man bound to a pillar. He was surrounded by three very large rats. In the centre of the room was a large creature, clearly demonic in nature. The demon seemed to be bound by some kind of enchantment, which was luck for our party and the captive. I quickly moved around the perimeter of the room to free the bound man. One of the giant rats attacked me and the other two swarmed the prisoner.

We quickly learned that the situation was not as it appeared. The captive was not a captive at all. He was deliberately playing a role to lure us in to the chamber. With a single command word he released the demon from his enchanted prison, freeing it to attack the party. I worked to destroy the filthy dire rat as it bit through my armor trying to overwhelm me. The rest of the party engaged the demon.

As I fought with the giant rat, I was shocked to see that the captive and the two other rats were in fact lycanthropes – wererats! They assumed a human-rat hybrid form and skulked around the room trying to ambush my companions and stop them from destroying the demon. Fortunately my companions were able to quickly and decisively defeat the demon and the wererats.

I regret that I was not able to fight the lycanthropes myself. But just seeing them up so close, attacking the party, and trying to do us harm caused a flame to ignite within me. I have lived my life under a cloud of prejudice and try very hard to accept everyone regardless of their differences, but the lycanthropes are clearly evil. As I reflect back to my teaching, now put in context with this battle, I see how Paladins of the Flame could want to destroy such filth. I have also come to realize why so many followers of the Flame carry silvered weapons, even though the likelihood of needing them is remote. I felt a sense of helplessness as the lycanthropes attacked my companions. When we complete this rescue mission and return to town I will be arming myself with a few silver weapons. I don’t want to be caught unequipped should I ever need to battle lycanthropes again. Flame take them.

Adventuring Company Name

2008-11-13T22:07:00.002-05:00

Hey guys, was just wondering if anyone had any idea's for a name for the party. Being we are a group that works out of a guild I thought it might be appropriate.

Looking back to older campaigns;

The Forest Game (epic game): We were members of the King's Own, known as the 'Ghosts'

Derek's Eberron game: While we didn't have an offical party name I think 'The Train Wreck' would work.

I'll be honest in that I don't have any idea's at this point. There hasn't been a moment that jumps out and makes me say "That's who we are." However, maybe one of you has had such a thought.

Just thought I would toss the idea out there.

Imprisonment

2008-11-13T19:56:00.003-05:00

Pain, pain is all I know. The cursed Hobgoblins have likely done me in. I don't think I can survive another bout of their questioning. I've lost too much blood to endure further. The best I can hope for now is to die with my dignity intact. Six take every last of these foul creatures for I don't understand their motives. Their questions lack purpose and direction. They seemed to only want to torture me for the sake of it. They thrive on the pain they cause. Six take them!

The cold of this cell leaches into my body. I shift to find a more comfortable position only to find I have another unknown bruise. The smell of my own refuse assaults my senses, I'm careful to avoid that area of the cell.

I begin to loose track of how much time has passed. I realize that no one is coming for me and that I will likely die in this cell. I hear noise from above, it isn't the typical sounds the Hobgoblins make. No I hear the sounds of battle, perhaps I'm not to die down here after all.

The battle that raged above has ended and yet no one comes. All is silent and now faint traces of light descend down the stairs. As the light grows brighter a figure detaches from the shadows and stands to it's full height. The figure appears to be human, with long hair. A wicked dagger is clutched in his hand. He says nothing as he enters further into the room. His eyes taking everything in, searching for hidden enemies. Satisfied he waves his hand briefly.

I hear a commotion at the top of the stairs, within short order several other figures enter into the room. A burly dwarf in heavy armour. His axe gleaming in the light. He looks dour, perhaps the most taciturn looking dwarf I've ever seen. He is followed by a half-elf, standing tall and proud, the symbol of the Silver Flame gleaming on his chest. Next is a Warforged, his sentinel eyes absorb everything. He seems to be calculating odds as he strategically positions himself at the base of the stairs. Finally, a rare beauty. Another human and judging from her robes she practices the arcane arts. Perhaps I and the others who were taken stand a chance after all.

The first human approaches my cell. He gives me a look over and deciding I'm not a threat to him turns his attention to the lock on the door. Before I'm even aware of it I hear a click and he's opened the door to the cell. With the briefest of nods he beckons me out of the cell and moves towards the back of the room.

The others move forward and begin to question me. They've obviously been sent from the village to find me and the others. They question me about the hobgoblins asking for numbers and why we might have been taken. I answer them, but my attention is diverted by the rogue. He doesn't seem to care why we've been taken. He takes no part in the questioning, he doesn't even appear to be listening.

Instead he is studying the table on the far wall. The table with all those devices of torture. I watch his eyes move from implement to implement. He appears to be cataloguing them. Slowly he begins to pick them up, one at a time. He studies their blades, prongs and curves. He tests how sharp they are. As I watch him work with these weapons I am overcome with a sense of dread. This man is no hero come to save us. He is a killer. His hands seem much more familiar with the devices than the hobgoblin brutes.

I begin to shake and tremble. The others assume it is due to my imprisonment, the reality is I am afraid of this man. Ethan, I hear one of them call him. He looks up, his eyes intent, it's time to move onwards. He quietly climbs the staircase, silent as a ghost. I look at the others a pleading look in my eyes. Do they not know they associate with a killer? Host save me, I pray I live to see the sunlight.

Recap #9 - Kartenix' Fate Discovered...

2008-11-12T20:54:00.002-05:00

Sertanian is an old man but he seemed ready to take the fight to his captures. In his weakened state he would be more of a liability than anything. The party convinced him that the best place for him was back with Adronsius in case the dwarf needed assistance with anything.
After a quick escort back the party moved back up to the previous crypt and then east up the stairs. The room is dark but Ethan can see enough to take note of the multitude of spider webs in the room. Surely this is where the ettercaps that Sertanian mentioned stayed.
Correctly expecting an ambush the party moved up the stairs and were greeted by 3 ettercaps. Two were guards wielding halberds and the other was a webspinner. While the guards kept the group busy the webspinner covered the area in web nets making in nearly impossible for the group to move about the room.
Eventually the party bested the guards and were nearly done with the webspinner when it decided to flee north through a double set of doors.
In a momentary fit of bravery (maybe) Nenia decided to pursue their quarry into the hall and to the east – right into a waiting hobgoblin soldier.
The soldier retreated and sounded the alarm. Nenia came to her senses and quickly retreated back into the webbed room and slammed the doors closed behind her. At this point Nenia and Sterling wisely used their fire magics to clear the path of webs. While doing so they came upon a fresh corpse in the corner hidden under the webs. The insignia of the Clifftop Adventurer’s Guild upon the cloak of the fellow made known the victim’s identity – none other than Kartenix. It seems he had followed through with his intent on fighting the ettercaps and had met his fate.
Quickly gathering his corpse and some magic items near him, the party made a hasty retreat back through the crypts to where Adronsius and Sertanian were holed up. They sealed the door and healed their wounds over a long rest.
After 6 hours the group decided they had best find out what was going on outside. They perceived voices on the far side of the door. Stealthy preparation and a quick surprise easily gave the group the upper hand on the foes that awaited them. It seemed that the hobgoblin who sounded the alarm had been ordered to guard the group simply to contain them. At least his death meant he wouldn’t have to face the wrath of his superiors!
Carefully moving back through the dungeon and into the webbed room, the group met no resistance. Proceeding into the area previously occupied by the hobgoblins proved to be an easy task – they had killed them all in the ambush.
Moving down a circular stairs they found a room with some sarcophagi . The room had been transformed into a living quarters of sort – complete with a stinking hole that could only be a latrine. In the south of the room was a set of double doors.
After check the doors for traps, Ethan scouted forward. Around a corner to the east he discovered a room dimly lit by candles. Four statues of displacer beasts lined the path to an altar upon which was strapped a woman frightened to the point of catatonia. This had to be Mirtala if Adronsius directions had been true.
No sooner did the party step into the room when they were beset by dire rats and gnome skulks waiting in ambush. Excellent use of tactics made this a relative walk-in-the-park for the group.
After untying the woman, the party was unable to get her to assist them with information on the missing prisoners and artifacts. (*cough* failed skill challenge *cough*) They opted to return her to the other rescued folk and take a well deserved rest in order to rid themselves of the gift of the dire rats – filth fever!

Recap #8 - Mmmm.... Jelly...

2008-11-12T20:19:00.002-05:00

The party decides to leave Adronsius holed up in the area. The door is locked and a password is given. Adronsius advises them that if he doesn’t hear from the party in a day he is going to try to get home on his own.
The party returns to the entrance. They notice the goblin is gone.
As the party prepares for the worst, Ethan checks the West door. Opening it reveals a hobgoblin on watch but caught off guard. Seeing Ethan he flees down the hall and around the corner yelling in goblin for his comrades to prepare for battle.
Rounding the corner the party enters a Goblin Warren. They are confronted by 2 soldiers and 8 grunts. A well placed blast from Nenia kills a number of grunts and forces the rest to spread out around the room – a definite blow to their phalanx tactics.
During the fight a door to the north opens and two sharpshooters set up pelting the party with bolts.
Solid tactics by the party make quick work of the hobgoblins. One grunt attempts to flee through a door to the West but meets his fate to the weapons of the group.
Ethan notices the sharpshooters preparing to flee over a deep pit in the north hall. Bravely – or foolishly – he places himself between the goblins and the pit in order to block the route. It is almost his end as the goblin attempts to bullrush him into the gapping pit. He quick reflexes allow him to catch himself on the edge of the pit however.
Nothing of note is found within the room so the party takes a brief respite. Surmising that Adronsius did not cross the pits blindfolded they decide to head through the West door.
The hall beyond is clear. As they round a corner North, they behold a shimmering image of a seeming long-forgotten castle. Nenia judges they are in the presence of an ancient teleporter.
As they study the flickering image, an ochre jelly slides through the portal and attacks them.
Fierce battle ensues as slime seems to ooze its way wherever it wishes. After dealing some significant damage the ochre jelly splits into 2! To make matters worse 3 spectres slide out of the walls and attack the party as they are embroiled with the jelly. The attacks of the specters seem to sap the very vitality of their targets. After dispatching the slimes and two of the specters, the third turns invisible and disappears without a trace.
A couple more checks reveal to Nenia that this portal is not functioning correctly and is indeed only a 1-way portal from wherever the pictured castle is located. The party wisely gets out of view before something else on the other side takes notice of them.
Hallway east leads back to the hallway with pits. In order to slow any foes further up the hall, the party removes the ropes dangling over the chasms and stow them in their packs.
The party opts to run passed the portal again and try the West door of the portal room.
Moving along the hall the party enters a pitch black room. The North and South walls of the room hold skeletons of the Von Urstadt clan, once prominent in the region. It is a crypt. On the North wall is a double door.
Ethan moves into the room followed by the other members of the party. Suddenly a gnome chuckles as it opens the North door. As the party springs into action a sudden bright orange glow bursts from through the doors and two magma claws skuttle into the room.
A few singed eyebrows later and the party mops up the foes.
Scouting east reveals a stair climbing into the darkness. Through the north door a stairs descends into pitch black. Both paths are eerily silent.
Opting for the lower room, Ethan takes point and descends the stair. Hearing nothing of note he uncovers his sunrod to reveal a room of torture. Along the north wall are two holding cells – one of which contains Sertanian – advisor to the council of Delver’s Dale. Bravely he informs the party that he alone knows what the missing relics looks like, that Mirtala the cook is down a spiral staircase beyond the ettercaps and that Kartenix is most likely dead since he was planning on fighting his way free.

Recap #7 - Griffins and Goblins and Spears! Oh my!

2008-11-12T20:15:00.005-05:00

Party summoned by Councilman Eoffram Troyas
Offers information and assistance but party needed to prove themselves trustworthy
Successfully earn respect and trust
Offered reward for rescuing captives and securing return of valuable heirlooms of the town
Party agrees. Rests while preparations are made for them. (25 Aryth)
Left Delver’s Dale to follow trail of hobgoblins to ruins of a castle located a few days ride from the town.
Trail relatively easy to follow.
Travel for 3 days (28 Aryth)
Attacked by griffins. Kill and drive off attack. Notice egg up on cliff face but decide to leave – for now.
Find ruins. Nothing found in ruins themselves but outside in cliff face they find entrance to old crypt that seems to be recently used.
Party descends stairs and is greeted by 2 goblins firing hand crossbows and 4 wielding heavy shields with flails.
Two sharpshooters eventually try to flee. One is slain and the other is captured.
Bodies piled by door. Goblin interrogated. Seems more scared of someone named Sinruth than of the party. Very little information learned as goblin spent most of his time performing duties near the entrance.
Jonathan promises no harm will befall him and he would be freed but Ethan clunked the goblin hard and knocked him out.
Not sure which was to go, the party headed through the East doors. The hallway turned North up a stairs into a room with glowing symbols on the floor.
Ethan moved into the room, spotted nothing out of sorts and checked out some doors to the East. When he opened the door he was swarmed by an ambush!
Needlefang drakes and Gnome skulks sprang from the debris laden alcoves in the walls and two hobgoblin archers through the doors open to assault the party with arrows.
As the tide turned in favour of the PCs, the hobgoblins slammed the doors closed and retreated down hall.
Jonathon follows and inadvertently trips a spear trap. To his horror his blundering also causes spear to thrust from the floor and skewer a dwarf chained to the far wall.
Holy rage fills Jonathon and he slams into the nearest hobgoblin with such force that it is knocked flying.
As he is battling with his enemy the other party member round the corner to assist. Despite warnings, Delian blunders into the trip plate again and inflicts more damage to the dwarf on the wall. It nearly finished the dwarf.
A short battle and the hobgoblins are dispatched. The Dwarf is rescued and the party learns they have rescued their first hostage – a surly dwarf named Adronsius.
The dwarf describes the path to Mirtala – as he was blindfolded.
The party rests.
During the night, Jonathon holds true to his word as he sneaks out and frees the goblins bound by the front door.

A little experiment...

2008-11-06T23:52:00.008-05:00

One night while the party was resting, I was up going through my ritual book in hopes that I might find something useful while in the dungeon. It was curious to hear Ethan talking in his sleep. I didn't think much of it up until he had said the words, "Larien! No!" Ethan had then quickly awoke from his sleep and looked me directly in the eyes. I quickly turned my gaze away and looked back at my book and when I turned back to look at Ethan, he was fast asleep again. Curious that he mentions that blonde elf that worked in the guildhouse for a little while.

This had given me an idea and while our group was resting. I quietly whispered in everyone's ears the words, "Be mindful of Nenia. Make sure she can cast her spells. Don't get in her way." I had read somewhere that the power of the subliminal mind was there to be harnessed, but so far my little experiment has not gone as planned. Battle after battle today, Ethan is tumbling about, Braddoc is always charging in and Delian uses his holy symbol to get in everyone's face.

Sooner or later, the message will sink in. I believe.

The Joy of Combat

2008-11-05T15:52:00.005-05:00

Finally, we've begun to explore the dungeon again. Spending the night in that room was nerve racking. It was impossible to get comfortable and to truly rest. We've decided to remain on this floor for now before we climb deeper into this dungeon.

Upon opening one of the other doors in the atrium a hobgoblin jumped awake, ran and sounded the alarm. He screamed in goblin "Wake up, the bad people are here!" Seizing the opportunity I blindly moved around the corner drew a dagger and hurled it at a hobgoblin dropping the foul creature. The others had no choice but to follow my lead.

The battle went smoothly, Nibbler found the soft points of my enemies, making easy work of them. Mid-battle a set of doors opened and a pair of dirty goblin archers took aim at us. Tower spit, but I hate goblins. They seemed to have a particular hatred for Braddoc as he took the brunt of their arrows. As the battle turned in our favour a hobgoblin shouted to the goblins to raise gather reinforcements. I quickly moved to intercept the goblins, they weren't going for help without putting up a fight.

I throw myself at them, tumbling at the last moment to put my self behind them and perilously close to a gaping pit. One of the goblins got wise a tried to knock me into it. Six take him! Olladra was with me though, and I caught myself at the edge. Nenia then fired off her magic at the wretches, dazing one of them. I promptly jumped up and ended him. By that time Braddoc had joined me and finished the remaining goblin off!

Ogre's eye's it was a good fight! I felt my blood rush like never before. I felt strong and powerful. Dispatching my foe's with hardly a second thought. Nibbler danced and spun, drawing blood from my foes. It really was all too easy. As the rush of the battle fades from me, I realize I enjoyed it. I delighted in the death of these goblins. Everything else fell to the background as I threw myself into the frenzy. This is what it's like to have power, to be able to take from others. To extinguish their lives without a second thought. The idea delights me, just as it terrifies me.

Delian's Musings - Dreaming of Dragons

2008-10-31T10:14:00.001-04:00

Since leaving Sharn I’ve been having strange dreams. The dreams change, but some details are constant.

I dream of dragons. Silver dragons. Sometimes the dragon is a huge and magnificent creature, flying high over Khorvaire. She has power and grace. Wisdom and knowledge. She is ever vigilant and always seeking… something… or someone. Other times I dream of a much smaller dragon. Also silver, but this dragon is moving along the ground with conviction. He is bold yet careful. He’s following, no not following… tracking his quarry. He’s focused and patient. Watching. Learning. Waiting.

But regardless of which dragon populates my dreams, the large female or the smaller male, they both breathe a beautiful silver fire – a silver flame.

I struggle to understand the meaning of these dreams. I don’t believe that they are figments of my imagination. I believe that they have a greater meaning. I pray that the flame will grant me the wisdom and focus to decipher the meaning of my dreams.

Time Spent in a Dungeon

2008-10-28T22:05:00.004-04:00

The night has been long. I've never camped in a dungeon before, though strangely it is similar to the lower wards of Sharn. Being surrounded by the enemy is an alien feeling. It is difficult to relax and rest. Things have gone well to this point. We fight as a group for the most part. Wait, who am I kidding, we were reckless during our last engagement. Some of the orcs pulled back setting a trap behind them. In their haste the others triggered it and almost killed one of the captives we've been commissioned with saving. The Dwarf is happy to be alive and Jonathon's been chatting with him like their old friends. It makes me laugh thinking that he almost killed him.

We've taken shifts keeping watch. Even though Sterling is able to stay awake and remain on guard all night it isn't fair to ask him to remain vigilant for so long, he does enough for us. The night has been uneventful, though during the early hours of the morning a slight noise disturbed me. Years of living in the Cogs have left me as a light sleeper. You never knew when a dagger was coming to slit your throat. I reached for Nibbler in case some dirty goblin was attempting to sneak up on us. What I saw snatched my breath away.

Jonathon was attempting to sneak out of the room we had secured. The sight of him tippy toeing in his heavy armour, trying not to alert us almost made me laugh. To my ears it sounded as though a herd of elephants was walking through the room. I can only surmise that he disagreed with my treatment of the goblin we'd interrogated earlier and was going to live up to his word and his honour. What he was likely to do was get us or himself killed. Still, he was our companion.

Rising silently I moved to follow Jonathon. As I rounded the corner in the hall I looked back on our group. All were sleeping save Sterling, his gaze falling upon me as he nodded a silent acknowledgement of what needed to be done.

I couldn't risk something happening to Jonathon or of him alerting others in the dungeon to our whereabouts. Following him was simple, I was a shadow against the wall. Not even the dead spirits of the orcs we slew were aware of me. Sure enough Jonathon released the goblin. A small smile reached my lips as I realized the depth of Jonathon's faith and compassion. He even said a prayer over the pitiful thing. I still think him a fool.

I let Jonathon pass me and return to camp. I could sneak back in simply enough. It was nice to be out and away from the others. Time to reflect on my own and jot these notes down. Morning would come soon enough and with it death and danger. Olladra guide me.

Time to get back at it...

2008-10-26T15:41:00.003-04:00

The babies are born. Things are settling. It's time to get our heads back in the game! Take a few minutes to read some of the summaries and the player posts so that your brain gets into the right spot for next session.

See you then.

Nenia's Background

2008-09-04T13:27:00.007-04:00

When I close my eyes and sleep, I dream of another world. I dream of another place.
I feel like I am fourteen again.
I have a mother and a different father.
I also have a brother.

When I wake up, all I know is my father, Maximillion.

Father, a senior member of the Order, had raised me within the Esteric Order of Aureon. My father has told me that I have an extraordinary gift for magic. Apparently I was performing parlour tricks since I was a toddler, but for that I have no memory. I ask my father why don't I remember growing up and why don't I remeber my mother. He tells me that I was put throught a test by the Order at an early age and it had a profound affect on my memory. The healers have told me that they belive that my brain does not want me to remember the tortures I was put through in the test.

I have always felt out of place. I always felt that I do not belong.

My father and Ragnolin are acquantiances and my father would often recommend some of his pupils to expand their use of the magic arts by participating in adveutres organized the Clifftop Adventuer's Guild. I had requested to join the Guild to experience life outside of the Order. There was this pent up urge I needed to fulfill, and I didn't think the Order was where I needed to be.

I told my father of my decision, and the sheer disapproval from my father had my soul in knots. As I left the Order he had told me "You will be back. You will carry on my legacy." To this day, I'm very afraid of what he had said. It was cold -- very cold -- even evil in a way.

On the morning after my 18th birthday, I set forth under the guidance of Ragnolin and the further adventures that are in store.

When I close my eyes and sleep, I dream of another world. I dream of another place. In my heart's heart, I know I have made the right choice.

Jonathon's Journal - Mission to save Katernix

2008-09-03T12:35:00.002-04:00

So here we are. Taking an extended rest in a 1,000 year old castle deep within the mountains. Cramped in a small room with dead bodies and a smelly dwarf that is resting. Smells like Mountain Dew in here. Gross.

The day started nice enough. Delver’s Dale is such a beautiful town. As we approached Arawai cast a soft shadow over the town with a magnificent sun rise giving it a majestic feel.

We started making our way over to the Rusty Kettle when we heard screams of battle from Hobgoblins and Ogres. I hadn’t met an Ogre in battle before but heard stories of their strength. While the group was making plans for Sterling and Braddoc to ensure Katernix was safe I wasn’t listening. Dol Dorn had a test for me today. Too meet an Ogre on the battle field. After asking Dol Dorn to bless us with divine defensive magic, I began running towards the screams. Damn, Armor. I mean, it looks cool and has saved my life many times, but I wanted to go solo against that Ogre. My speed was no match though as the party quickly overtook me. Of all people. Ethan arrived first and was getting the glory of laying the smack down on the Ogre. From a brief moment during the battle I thought Dol Dorn was playing a joke on me. But I didn’t worry long. The combination of my blessing from Dol Dorn and Olladra luck meant Ethan would live to see another day. At least that thought made me smile. I think I’m binging to like have Ethan around after all. But, what a fool. Charging an Ogre head on like that with a puny weapon and no armor. How has he survived this long?

After dispatching the Ogre we ran back to the Rusty Kettle to find Braddoc nearly dead. From the survivors stories he fought with honor to the last breathe worthy of stories in Dol Arrah’s name. I’m so happy he was still alive. The thought of having to bury Braddoc gives the creeps. I hope I never oversee another funeral. Thank you to The Host for looking out for him today!

Kartenix and his son were kidnapped by hobgoblins. Before we could decide on the next course of action we were called to some diplomats chambers. We were informed that in addition to the towns folks that were kidnapped a number of Aureon artifacts were stolen from the church. The hobgoblins must be working for someone. They can’t be doing that on their own. The items are apparently left over from another time when humans and goblins were at war. They must be retrieved. After a short conversation we promised to return them and asked the town for horses.

Hours after leaving the town, we had to leave the horses behind to climb sections of the mountain. Again, armor sucks for climbing. I was useless and needed the assistance of my friends. And hot. Good grief. While everyone was busy it seemed appropriate to lead a prayer session to Aureon to ask for assistance in finding the Hobgoblins that stole his artifacts. I definitely felt his presence. The chants had a noticeable effect in lifting the spirits of my tired comrades. Aureon wants us to succeed in this mission. I’m sure of it.

We get to the top of the cliff and out of no where get attacked by three hippogriffs. If it was just one I would have tried scaring it off. But there were three and if we didn’t take the threat seriously one of us might have died. We killed two and drove the other away. Afterwards, I sat and prayed too Balinor too look after the souls of those Hippogriffs. Afterall, they were doing what came natural to animals. They were looking for food. During my prayers, I heard a few party members discussing the value of Hippogriff eggs. If they ever dare, Balinor, please bless me with your might to lay the smack down and set my friends right.

Though we were tired we pressed on as there were people to save. We made it to the entrance of this old castle and dispatched four hobgoblins and two goblin archers in the main room. I grabbed one of them near the end so we could interrogate him. After a few minutes he decided it was in his interest to talk. He gave us some valuable info on the castle and its occupants. I gave him my word that we would let him go free. Damn, Ethan to hell. Why does he not understand the honor in keeping ones word? And Delian? He is a Paladin of the Silver Flame. I thought they were bound by a personal code of conduct for this type of circumstance. Perhaps I’ve been wrong about him. The way he fights as well. He skulks around like a rat sometimes, not like a warrior. How did he get blessed with Knighthood? He has confirmed my suspicions. The Silver Flame has much lower standards than the Sovereign Host and has proven that he can’t be trusted to keep his word like most Paladins.

What Ethan doesn’t realize is that I’m waiting for him to fall asleep so I can walk out in the main chamber to bring the unconscious hobgoblin outside, stripe him of weapons, heal him and then release him. I am duty bound to keep my word. He may not trust the word of the host but it’s a matter of principle. It’s a small risk that I’ll be seen and attacked on my own but if that happens so be it. If the lone goblin tries anything stupid then I’ll waste no time in killing him.

After we came into this second room we ran into a swarm of insects and a few more hobgoblins. I chased after two of them. When I ran around the corner I set off a trap that nearly killed a dwarf in the corner. Spikes! After a quick prayer to Dol Dorn I knocked down the one in front of me with such a powerful attack it knocked him back. Moving quickly to get off the spikes I jumped on top of the prone hobgoblin. The battle continued for a few more moments. While Sterling was distracting the one in the corner with the trap lever I was lifting the dwarf up to save him from impending doom. One more attack from the spikes and he would be dead. Delian rounds the corner and trips the trap even after he was warned. After today’s events nothing will surprise me anymore from followers of the Flame.

We eventually free the dwarf and have now decided to rest overnight in this room. We are all exhausted. I healed the dwarf enough so he is in no danger of dying. But he is in no condition to talk until the morning.

Good. I think Ethan is asleep. The dwarf is comfortable. Let’s see if I can sneak out of here now to go free to Hobgoblin. If anyone is awake, they can join me if they wish. But heaven forbid, they are not stopping me. May the Host be with us.

A Letter to Zhaff -- 18 Aryth, 998 YK

2008-08-30T15:06:00.002-04:00

Zhaff

I’ve been keeping an eye on Del as promised. He’s faring far better than I’d expect for a Thrane in Breland. He doesn’t flaunt his belief in the Silver Flame (which is smart), but he doesn’t go out of his way to conceal it either. He’s found a very delicate balance which works for him.

His companions from the Guild are a motley bunch. They include a human priest of the Soverign Host, a Dwarven warrior, a Warforged battle leader, a human wizard, and a human rogue from the streets. They seem to be doing a lot of in-fighting but so far they haven’t come to blows. I’ve seen this behaviour before and I have no doubt that they’ll overcome their differences. I did learn that Del had some very harsh words for his companions after a bitter defeat. It caused a few of them to view Del harshly, but the result was an overall improvement to the team. I have no doubt that Del realized this would be the case. It was a smart and calculating move on his part.

In Sharn he’s been spending a lot of time at Coldflame Keep. He generously donated a sizable portion of his earnings to the church. I don’t think they’ve had that kind of donation in a long time. It will certainly win over Father Tana. He’s old school and sees generosity as a true virtue of the chosen. Del may not realize it, but Father Tana would probably do anything he asked of him if it was within his power.

Father Tana’s acolytes have come to worship Del in their own right. Nondar has taken to learning the ways of the sword and Del has been kind enough to provide the boy with some basic training. Liola, a comely human girl of 17 is smitten with Del. But Del doesn’t seem to realize just how much the girl truly adores him. I hope he doesn’t do anything stupid and break her heart in the process. Ah, to be his age again.

Since Del’s return to Shran from his voyage at sea, he’s attracted some of the wrong kind of attention. His new-found wealth and his newly acquired magic sword have not gone unnoticed. On his third night back some ruffians broke into Coldflame Keep. They were clearly after Del’s money and his magical treasures. I took steps to make sure that Del was given adequate warning once the men were inside the church. (Don’t worry, he didn’t know that I was even there.) He quickly took charge of the situation and with the help of the Templars stationed within the church they took down the four burglars without difficulty. None were killed and their arrest sent a message to others who might think that a Church of the Silver Flame is an easy target just because it’s outside of Thrane. This also had the additional bonus of letting the Templars see some much needed action.

I “bumped into” Del a few days later. He remembered me from the Tea House, much to my surprise. We had a brief lunch and talked about the state of Sharn since the end of the war. I didn’t ask him anything too specific and he didn’t volunteer details. He’s very good at reading people and I have no doubt that he knows my meeting was not mere chance. I’ll have to be more diligent if I’m going to continue keeping an eye on him. I suspect he’ll be keeping an eye out for mee too in the days to come.

He reminds me so much of his mother. I’m glad that he didn’t get buried under the bureaucracy of the Silver Flame during his time in Flamekeep. He’s turning into a very interesting man.

Sincerely,
Aloniff

A Letter from Zhaff -- 12 Aryth, 998 YK

2008-08-30T15:06:00.001-04:00

Delian

I read you letters with tremendous happiness and pride. You seem to be finding your way in the world and putting your skills to good use. I am also very glad to hear that you continue to proudly follow the Flame, even in Breland where there is much less tolerance for it. Please continue to write when you have the opportunity.

A good friend of my, a half-elf named Aloniff, will be in Sharn for the winter. I told him that you’ve been staying at Coldflame Keep and that you’ve recently become a member of the Clifftop Adventurer’s Guild. He said he will look you up if time permits. You may remember him as he used to stop in the tea shop many years ago during the war. I thought a friendly and familiar face would be a welcomed surprise.

I am sending you three tea blends by post that I think you will enjoy. They should are in the next week or so. They are made from the leaves of plants indigenous to Q’Barra (don’t ask how much it cost me to acquire them). Enjoy the tea and may the Flame keep you safe.

Your loving father,
Zhaff

Delain's Letters -- 9 Aryth, 998 YK

2008-08-30T15:03:00.001-04:00

Greetings, father

After many weeks on the road it was good to be back in Coldflame Keep. Although I feel the presence of the Silver Flame within me wherever I go, it always feels most gratifying and pure when I’m in a holy place such as this. But before I could get too comfortable I was called to duty once more.

We were all granted full membership in the Clifftop Adventurer’s Guild upon our return to Sharn and it only took a mere five days before we were charged with a dangerous recovery mission in the Thunder Sea. A man named Aubreck had fallen on hard times loosing his ship – The Emporer of the Seas – and the bulk of his estate. Aubreck had a lead on the possible location of his lost ship and he sought a group of adventurers to retrieve a small box contained in the cargo hold.

We traveled across the Thuder Sea for eight days before finding Aubreck’s ship, or what was left of it. We boarded her and began our search. There were unspeakable creatures, alive and undead, within the bowels of the distraught vessel. But our adventuring company succeeded in overcoming these obstacles and found Aubrek’s box. In addition we discovered a few other magical treasures.

I found a beautiful hand-and-a-half sword. I have never wielded a blade of this size with such balance and grace. But the blade’s true magic is its ability to deliver a blow of cold and frost when it strikes an opponent. For this reason, I have dubbed the blade Frost Bite. And so far Frost Bite has not let me down.

The return trip to Sharn only took five days thanks in large part to a strong northerly headwind and uncharacteristically clam waters. Hopefully my stay in Sharn will be longer than five days this time.

Father Tana seems very appreciative of my help when I’m around Coldflame Keep. His advanced age and mediocre health limit his duties considerably. I have noticed that his two teenage acolytes, Nondar and Liola, have found new motivation in their calling. Both have shown noticeable improvement in their tasks and much stronger motivations to do good since I started staying at Coldflame Keep. Father Tana thinks that I am unknowingly acting as a positive role model. I don’t know if I accept this explanation as readily as he does.

May the Flame keep you safe,
Delian

Jonathon's Wish List

2008-08-29T20:45:00.001-04:00

Armour:
Chain +2 (I’m happy with this already)
If I were to upgrade I might go for Exalted Armor +2 (Level 10)

Weapon:
Thundering Weapon +2 (Level 8)
A mace for now. For 4th level I am thinking of using my feat for a proficiency in Long Sword. If I do that, I’ll need this as a Long sword. I’m doing it for two reasons. 1. Role Playing – Jonathon would consider training in Long Sword an honor as its Dol Dorn’s favored weapon. As for the mechanics. It’s the same as taken Weapon Focus because it has a +3 proficiency bonus compared to +2 for a mace.

Holy Symbol
I’m happy with a +1 Holy Symbol. It’s rarely used. I have very few powers that can benefit. Most of my powers are melee/weapon focused.

Arm Slot:
Guardian Shield (Level 10)

Feet Slot:
Acrobat Boots (Level 2)
Not very powerful but I’m tired of being knocked prone. Getting up as a minor action would be nice.

Hand Slot:
Gloves of Piercing (Level 3)
Gauntlets of Ogre Power suck in 4th edition.

Head Slot:Goggles of Night (Level 14)
Helm of Ghostly Defense (Level 22)
This will come in handy when I start laying the Smack down on the evil Dark Six priest.

Neck Slot:
Cloak of resistance +2 (Level 7)
It’s has to be red to match my photo. J

Rings:
Iron Ring of Dwarf Lords (level 14)

Waist Item:
Dynamic Belt (Level 9)
No more slipping on boats.

Wondrous Items:
Dimensional Shackles (Level 17)
This will come in handy to bring criminals to justice when they must be captured alive.

Braddoc's Thoughts

2008-08-29T20:37:00.000-04:00

Why wouldn't they just listen to me? Pig headed fools. They had to go rushing off to see what the big bang outside of town was. I was the only one wise enough to stay behind and guard the young child. Sure enough, shortly after they left the real attack showed up at the inn. Why do they ALWAYS fall for the diversion?!?

I fought valiantly against overwhelming odds, but alas I fell to the horde of filth. By the luck of Moradin I was only knocked unconscious, my last memory being the cry of a small child being carried off to a fate I wish not to think of.

Seven innocent bystanders shall pay the price of their decisions. Why are my companions such fools?

Braddoc's Mug

2008-08-29T20:10:00.002-04:00

Just because you guys have done it, I must be a lemming and do it also. Here is the closest I could find to my image of Braddoc.

Braddoc' Wishlist

2008-08-29T18:39:00.001-04:00

Armour:

Battleforged Plate +1 (Level 5)

Mountain Plate +2 (Level 8)

Arm Slot:

Shield of Defiance (Level 8)

Feet Slot:

Dwarven Greaves (Level 7)

Battlestrider Greaves (Level 12)

Hand Slot:

Guantlets of Ogre Power (Level 5)

Head Slot:

Horned Helm (Level 6)

Neck Slot:

Amulet of Protection +2 (Level 6)

Waist Item:

Iron Skin Belt (Level 5)

Wondorous Items:

Bag of Holding (Level 5)

Surveillance

2008-08-29T16:53:00.001-04:00

It feels a little odd to be doing what I’m doing, but I don’t feel I have a choice. I need someone to talk to and I don’t feel I can trust my new friends with this. I can’t trust their reactions and I don’t want to jeopardize their friendship. Furthermore, I don’t want them know I’m following one of our own secretly. It took some debating but eventually the decision to find a priest of Olladra seemed to be the only reasonable alternative. I certainly wasn’t going to speak with a Cleric of the Silver Flame, they might smite me down with the secrets I was about to reveal to them. Besides, I didn’t follow that faith and no matter how noble Delian may be or how honourable he conducted himself I couldn’t trust his Church.

Reaching this decision was hard enough. I’d come to realize over the past weeks that violence and killing came to easily to me. I fear I’ve been struggling with this demon my entire life. With the exception of when I killed Mikhal I’ve always avoided conflict, preferring to run and hide instead. Now, in this new set of circumstances we are seeking out violence to accomplish our objectives. I’m just afraid I won’t be able to contain the darker side of myself. I find my hand strays towards Nibbler whenever the potential for danger arises. Sometimes the blade is out in my hand before I’m aware of it. No, I wouldn’t be going to the Silver Flame. They’d lock me up as a monster or a murderer. Best to stick to what I know.

That presented its own problem though. What I know is the Sovereign Host and Olladra in specific. However, Jonathon is the last person I want to have knowing about this. He already judges me and thinks of me as a vicious thug and murderer. It’s a hard thing to know. To travel with someone whose life I’ve saved and who has saved my own life. Yet to know that at the end of the day he feels I probably don’t deserve to live. That I should be the next evil put out of its misery.

So if I’m going to talk with a priest of the Host I need to make sure that Jonathon isn’t there. The problem is I don’t know which Temple he worships at; which brings me to my present situation and why I’m moving from shadow to shadow and rooftop to rooftop. I need to follow Jonathon to his regular place of worship so that I know to avoid it. I mean there are enough Temples of the Host around, and it’s not like I need a big fancy one; which is probably where Jonathon is heading.

It’s interesting to watch him as he walks. He stands so tall and proud, wearing his armour as though he were born to it. A group of Dwarves look up startled at his greeting to them. I know Jonathon has his own demons he keeps I’ve heard him scream in the night. But he sure lives a charmed life otherwise. His demeanour is welcoming and he’s gracious to all he meets. I suppose I’m jealous of his easy way with people. Folks see me and they shy away, hand on their coin purse and a quick gesture to ward of evil. Six take them! I’d never hurt an innocent. At least I hope.

As he winds his way into the Temple district I use a market to the left to move through. We’re close now and I can’t afford to be seen. He enters the Temple with a loud greeting. Perfect, I know where he’ll be and therefore where I won’t. Olladra guide me.

Nenia Osik - Magic Item Wishlist

2008-08-28T10:01:00.005-04:00

Arms
Level 8 - Mindiron Vambraces [3,400gp]

Neck
Level 9 - Cloak of Survival +2 [4,200 gp]

Orb
Level 8 - Orb of Unlucky Exchanges +2 [3,400gp]

Wondrous Items
Level 4 - Everlasting Provisions [840 gp]
Level 10 - Handy Haversack [5,000 gp]

Jonathon's Picture

2008-08-26T15:57:00.002-04:00

Here you go. Enjoy.

I think the Avenging Flame power does +5 ongoing Fire Damage. Hehehe.

Jonathon’s 12 Days of Down Time

2008-08-25T10:50:00.000-04:00

We are preparing to leave the guild for another adventure tomorrow. The past twelve days of down time have been nice.

As soon as we returned from our mission for Aubrek, I invited Kathra out to dinner for some fine Dwarven cuisine. We spent a few hours reminiscing about the way things used to be. She told me stories of my father’s adventures and when the conversation turned to the tales of the mother’s kindness I was blessed with the warmth of Boldrei. I kept reminding myself that when my work is done in this world I would be reunited with them in the afterlife. May the host be with them.

If I leave this life prematurely, it will be an honorably death. One worthy of tales while seeking revenge against the Dark Six. Dol Dorn will not let me down. I will avenge their death and make my parents proud.

I told Kathra about our latest adventure and spoke fondly of my friends. Well, nearly all of them. She pointed out that I spoke of Ethan differently during my stories. Putting me on the spot, she asked why I spoke his name with such distain. I had not realized I was doing it until she pointed it out. I had nothing to say to her because she was right. I’ve been adventuring with him for months now. We have both saved each others life numerous times. I would lay down my life for Ethan yet I subconsciously speak his name in a negative tone. I’m sure it’s because he represents the exact opposite of my ideals, especially in combat. Yet he is a loyal friend and I’ve never felt threatened he would betray me. Why can’t I get over my prejudice towards him? Whatever my personal feelings right now, I must still include Ethan in my prayers to the host. I’ll sort it out eventually. For now, I just hope my opinions do not cause any problems because we are beginning to work better as a unit.

The following day I told Ragnolin that I wanted to keep my job as the guild’s priest and promised I would find someone to take over my duties permanently. The adventurers in this guild need spiritual guidance and I can’t abandon that role. The other party members frowned upon keeping their jobs. I can understand but my job was different. I was not sweeping floors. Spiritual guidance and having a Soverign Host presence in the guild is vital. It has a purpose.

On my down time I went to the church and spread word that I was looking for someone to take over my role. I managed to find three candidates and with permission from Ragnolin invited them to the guild for interviews.

During one of my visits to the church I donated 10% of my gold. It was just under 20 gold so I rounded it up. It was my largest donation ever and I hope the church puts it to good use. I’ll have to ask where the money went a few months from now. During one of my visits, I ran into a young cleric adorning many symbols of Dol Dorn. He looked like a good candidate for a hand up, not a hand out. I introduced myself and we sat and prayed together. Afterwards, I gave him my second hand chain mail, 5 gold pieces to buy himself a nice weapon and a few words of encouragement. I think I made a new friend of him. His name was Eathal. Remarkably similar to Ethan, I noted. It felt nice to be successful enough this early in my adventuring career to give back a little.

Speaking of which, when I returned to the guild I tracked down the captain of the Dwarven crew that helps us on the last mission. I made arrangements to invite the crew out for drinks. During my younger days, I might have went crazy and spent 40 gold to treat them properly but I’m a priest now. I can’t be seen getting drunk and losing control. I must be responsible. So after a few hours I retired and took care of the bar tab to that point. 20 gold it cost me. The dwarves appreciated it and were impressed that I mastered their language so easily. One of them came to me the next day and expressed interest in learning more about the Sovereign Host so it was worth it.

On day twelve I made a decision on the 3 candidates to take over more role as the guilds priest. I introduced him to Ragnolin and he signed off. I’m happy that a presence for the Sovereign Host in the guild will continue during my absence. Raylin will do a great job I’m sure.

Recap #6 - Ink and Fire

2008-08-25T10:05:00.008-04:00

30 Sypheros
Expecting the worst within the next room, the group proceeded cautiously. It was all for naught however as the room was empty of any living - or unliving - creatures besides small spiders. Webs covered everything. In one corner of the room was the debris-filled stairway that led up to the altar room. In the other was a trap door leading down. Somehow the spider-webs covering this trap door seemed newer. Almost like the door had been opened recently. (dun-dun-dun!)

Ethan carefully checked the door for traps. Determining it was safe, Delian flung it open to reveal a ladder leading down into the dank hull of the ship. A large amount of debris could be seen floating in the waist-deep water. Using his sunrod, Sterling lay on his stomach and peered into the darkness. The hold ran the entire length of the ship. Nothing could be seen moving aside from the gently lapping water.

Not convinced of their safety, Sterling and Ethan proceed down the ladder. When a small perimeter was secured around the base of the ladder the rest of the group climbed down. In the now illuminated area a large crate floated bearing a stylized letter "A" upon it. Old and damp, it looked to be intact.

Hampered by the watery terrain, the group proceeded slowly toward their goal. However, upon reaching their quarry two ghouls and a corruption corpse burst from the water near the bow! The undead proved to be tough foes in and of themselves but, to make matters worse, the entire ship suddenly shuddered as if being struck by some unseen force. The battle raged on while the party attempted to remain on their feet. Water started pouring in from ever-widening cracks in the hull. At one point the tip of a tentacle could be seen ripping a board from the port wall.

Sensing the urgency of the situation, Sterling turned his attention from the undead to the box floating beside them. With a mighty blow he smashed the lid to reveal a blue, sealed container and a set of chainmail. He quickly snatched both up as the rest of the party bested the undead. Noticing the form of Jonathon under the inky water, Sterling stepped to his comrades aid and pulled him up. All thoughts turned to a hasty retreat lest the group slide beneath the waves with the doomed shipped.

Indeed, had it not been for the assistance of the more surefooted of the group and rope of Ethan, several of the team would surely have met their end here. However, the party was able to make it topside as the Emporer of the Seas listed heavily to port and began slipping to her resting place. The waiting skiff of dwarves braved writhing tentacles and panicked insects the attempted to clamour aboard their vessel as they pulled the party to safety. With a sense of pity, the crew watched as the Emporer finally was laid to rest with all her mysteries of the past several years.

7 Aryth
A week later The Soul of the Winter returned to Sharn. Aubreck quickly met the party at the docks and ushered them to a quiet place aboard the ship to learn what had happened. He was absolutley elated at the recovery of his box. He was convinced that it's contents would put him back on the road to regaining his former mercantile glory. He paid the members of the team their owed 100 gp each and instructed them to keep the extra items they had found. He also instructed them to look him up if they ever had need of a ship. It would not take him long to get set up again. With that he bid them farewell.

19 Aryth
A dozen days passed. The group rested and went about personal business as they kept an eye out for signs of a job worth of their skillset. It was not long in coming - and it was thrust upon them by none other than their boss Ragnolin.

While enjoying a little down time at the pub, the party seems a messenger burst into the guild hall and rush to the barkeep looking for Ragnolin. He then rushes into back to the bosses office. After several moments, Ragnolin strides into the main room looking angry. With very few others around he points to the group and ushers them into his office.

It seems that the rest of Hi'relle's party (the old man slain by Skamos north of Black Pit) have begun to vanish. Two the group disappeared within Flamekeep and a third never arrived at his destination of Fairhaven. Ragnolin believes that the remaining member - Kartenix - is in extreme danger. Kartenix is enroute from Flamekeep to Sharn via the King's highways. He is travelling with his 8 year old son Tharunn. The best guess to his location is a town called Delver's Dale in northern Breland. Ragnolin wants you to leave within the hour on a chartered airship in order to determine Kartenix' whereabouts and to protect him on the rest of his journey to Sharn. Ragnolin informs you that Kartenix is a very old friend of his and a long-standing, respected member of the guild. He takes any losses to the guild seriously. An adventurer's life is dangerous enough without someone targetting it's member. He won't stand by idly while his friends disappear.

Gathering your things you quickly jump aboard an air taxi hired by Sterling and proceed up to the airship dock. You are not on the ship for more than a minute when it drops its moorings and heads North to Delver's Dale.

24 Aryth
The party is dropped off in the northeast corner of the mining town of Delver's Dale. Since an airship is a rare sighting, their arrival is met with curiousity and suspicion. While children stare and point at the retreating ship, the town guard question the group as to their business. After a brief discussion the party learns that Kartenix and his son have been staying that the Rusty Kettle Inn for the past week or so.

Thanking the guard the party begins to head up the street towards their destination. Suddenly a loud bell begins ringing in the lookout tower. People being to scramble and a half-dozen militia being running east through the streets - presumably to the covered bridge marking the entrance to the town. The party overhears something about "It's big! A dragon I think!" and "I heard Ogre" as people rush passed. After a brief discussion, Sterling and Braddoc head to the Inn to check on the whereabouts of Kartenix and the rest of the group heads in the direction of the attack in order to assist.

Entering the inn, Sterling quickly assertains that the young lad looking out the window at the commotion is none other than Tharuun the sone of Kartenix. Sterling bluntly instructs the lad that he needs to see his father immediate and demands to know where he is. After an initial shock Tharunn finds a bit of courage and shoots back that he isn't about to reveal his father's location to just any walking piece of scrap metal and demands to know what is going on. Sterling introduces himself and Braddoc and tells the youngster that his father's life is in danger. The Clifftop Guild sent them to assist him. With that Tharuun takes you to the rented room his father is sleeping in. It seems the man took ill about a week ago and is still recovering.

Kartenix quickly assertains the situation and promises Sterling and Braddoc that, though weak, he and his son would gather their things and be ready to go as soon as possible. Braddoc remained behind in the tavern as a guard and Sterling took off through the streets to assist his companions.

Meanwhile the rest of the group arrived near the eastern edge of the town only to be confronted by a strange sight. Rounding the corner of some warehouses was a wagon being driven by two Hobgoblin Archers and drawn by an Ogre Savage! As one archer fired arrows at any militia, the other was lighting small kegs on fire and handing them to the ogre who in turn flung the bombs at buildings and groups of people. Anyone who got too close was set upon by its massive greatclub.

The group quickly moved into position and attacked the train of destruction. Ethan used his deft moves to gain advantage in combat and began decimating the ogre with precise attacks. Luckily for Ethan, he had received a blessing from Jonathon that bolstered his defense just enough to avoid the deadly crush of the greatclub (dude you barely avoided two hits of 2d10+5 - lucky bastard!) Nenia proved her worth by wisely targetting the explosive wagin with a firey attack. While Delian and Jonathon closed in to assist Ethan the kegs began exploding and damaging the wagon's denizens. It was not long before the archer jumped from the wagon and began fleeing for their lives. The unlucky ogre was unable to unhook itself from its yolk and eventually succumbed to the blows of the group.

As the battle wound down Sterling arrived. It was then that they noticed the warning bell had not stopped with the defeat of the wagoneers. After a moment of confusion, some of the militia began running back toward the center of town. The party followed. As they neared the inn they saw the retreating wagons of more hobgoblin attacked. However the backs of the wagons clearly contained a number of bound prisoners.

Rushing into the inn, the group found Braddoc soundly beaten and unconscious. Several of the patrons lay dead and the inn was in shambles. One of the surviving patrons informed the party between sobs that hobgoblins had burst into the inn. Braddoc had fought like a madman trying to protect them but was overcome by sheer numbers. When he fell and remaining resistance quickly faded. The hobgoblins had quickly bound no less than seven people and dragged them out onto waiting wagons.

Kartenix and Tharunn were among the captives.