Maximilian Cognitionis

## **Background**

Maximillian is a Damaran human who was born in a small town in the western heartlands, when Max was young, his sister Ashla became sick, he knew that she would die if a cure couldn’t eventually be found. He spent most of his younger life searching for said cure, every library, scholar and doctor was consulted, he learned a great deal about medicine, however he could not find a cure.

One night, he was approached by a mysterious individual, who claimed he could cure his sister, all he needed to do in exchange was to help the stranger when called upon at a later time, Max agreed. He took the stranger and travelled home and his sister seemingly saved. The same night his sister fell unconscious, the stranger confronted Max and revealed himself to be a demon, in the service of Talona, goddess of disease and poison.

The demon made it very clear to Max that when the time came, he would serve the evil god as his soul had now been exchanged when his sister was saved, if Max refused, his sister would die.

He never saw the demon again, he spent his following years learning the ways of Tyr, the god of justice, as he desperately searched for a way to break the demons hold over him and his sister, his search continues, working as an adventurer to help expand his knowledge as well as help pay for his sister’s care.

## **Meeting Aegon, Arannis and Plink**

They found Maximilian in a tavern, not much more is know except for the fact he intervened when Aegon began getting drunk and stepped in to help them deal with some of the rather unfriendly locals.

## **Meeting Mystic Obscura**

Though it's not completely clear how they met, it is pretty certain the two groups joined together, after Adrie and Balasar met Lady Eloithe. The other group; made up of Arannis, Plink, Max and Aegon, required coin, and found an advert for a new Adventuring Party. They came together in the house of the Mistborn family, in the Castle Ward District.

## **The Adventure Begins**

### **Arrival At Nightstone.**

Following a job at the Way Inn, Mystic Obscura were heading back up north towards Waterdeep. Upon some discussion, Lady Eloithe explained that she wished to visit her cousin in Nightstone, the current ruler of the town. Agreeing, the party travelled up to the town, taking a slight detour from their original path, they arrived to find a desolate and quiet area around Nightstone.

Heading inside of the walled town, Arannis alerted the attention of some Wargs, who Mystic Obscura quickly dispatched. Heading in further, they found the town to be destroyed, boulders from looked like a siege littering the courtyard. The namesake of the town, 'The Nightstone' was found to be taken. Eventually making their way into the abandoned inn, they fought and killed some Goblins who were currently taking up occupation around the town.

Finding a woman named Kella, she informed them that the town was attacked by Giants, and it was they who took the Nightstone. She informed them that the towns people had most likely fled into the Ardeep Forest, and she was being hunted by a group known as 'The Zentarmin Assassins'. Max stated that they would keep her safe, something the woman seemed to find some solace in. After some commotion, the group headed out to find the Seven Snakes outside of the keep, reportedly looking for Kella. Eloithe deigned that she was not here, protecting the young woman.

Returning to look for her, they found no sign of Kella. Instead, they emptied the town of Goblins, discovered Rillix and headed to the keep. Traversing inside, they found Lady Eloithe's cousin to be deceased, four guards having stayed to watch over her body.

As Lady Eloithe commanded them to look after her cousins body, Arannis argued with Balasar over the best course of action, as Max chided in and shut Arannis up. Heading back, they found Kella speaking to the the leader of the Assassins. Max watched as Adrie transformed herself into a cat, listening in as she learned that they were actually working for The Black Network; an underworld organisation, who would take over towns and turn them into their own, false-towns and networks.

Adrie was injured, but the ensuing fight saw them all defeat the Black Network and the Seven Snakes, Max delivering the killing blow to their leader with his mace. Before anything else could happen, Lady Eloithe sensed something outside of the gate, and dragged Arannis to close the draw bridge as an Orc Army; The Ear Seekers Tribe, arrived.

Waiting it out, the group split up as Max and Aegon remained near the gate, holding the draw bridge while the others headed to the abandoned shop where they found supplies. However, a small group of Orcs had traveled up the southern river, infiltrating the city from the depths. Max heard the commotion before Aegon, and telling the Half Orc to hold the bridge up so the Orcs couldn't gain entry, he ran to aid the group, creating a fog that stopped the Orcs from seeing.

Max fought side by side with Arannis on the front line, Plink battling right alongside them as well. Arannis, Lady Eloithe and Plink all fell to the Orcs eventually, but Max and remainder of the group defeated them in the end.

On the outside of the walls, the Wood Elves from the Ardeep forest arrived and dispatched the remainder of the Orcs. Carrying the unconscious in, the group decided to rest up, and the next day, after Eloithe had summoned her familiar, Zelda, they headed out to Ardeep Forest.

### **Into The Forest**

The group travelled into the forest, tracking the footsteps of the townsfolk as they found they led into a nearby cave. Deciding against walking straight in, the group travelled to the West side of the cave. Upon entering, they found a huge cavern with two Ogres in it. Turning back, they entered another cavern only to be captured from behind by a Black Pudding. Only Arannis fell, as the group managed to defeat the Black Pudding, and shortly revived him.

Deciding on a different approach, the group headed around to the East Entrance, found by Zelda. Upon trying to be quiet, Maximilian, who was blind due to the darkness, tripped with Arannis and they found themselves attracting the attention of nearby Goblins.

### **The Deal With The Goblins & Fight Against The Ogres**

Upon meeting the goblin, it asked them to kill it's boss, and then he would be boss and allow them to take the townsfolk, who were currently trapped in a cave to the North West, which could only be entered by passing by the Ogres. Max attempted to intimidate the goblin, much to the chagrin of the group, and the goblin only became more annoyed until Mystic Obscura agreed to defeat his boss.

Upon doing so, Max then attempted to negotiate with the Ogres, who in turn turned ferocious and attacked. Despite Balasar falling, and Aegon almost following, the group managed to defeat the Ogres and save the Townsfolk.

### **Accepting A Quest**

Upon returning to Nightstone, the group were asked to deliver a letter to Markam; brother of Samiel Southwell, who fell during the Giant Attack. After some discussion, the group decided to accept the mission, but not before heading back to Waterdeep.

The group travelled for a while on their way back to Waterdeep, taking their time as they recovered through their wounds.

### **Arrival At Waterdeep**

Eventually, they arrived at Waterdeep and found the Inn they would usually stay at destroyed, a drunken wizard fight having interfered with their plans. Instead, they were advised by one of the bar tenders there that they would now be staying at the Blue Tailed Mermaid, an inn in the Dock Ward. Despite Arannis and Lady Eloithe's slight displeasure at this, they headed down to the inn and prepared to meet with Cassian. Max became extremely drunk; unknowing that Arannis had spiked his drink as a prank. He vomited straight into his helmet, before slurring his words and trying not to fall asleep on the table.

### **Meeting Cassian**

As Cassian, the Liaison to the Mistborn family and the groups Handler, he took their percentage for their job at the Way Inn, and also rewarded them with some gold and a bag of holding for their successful missions. Telling them to make sure he knows of all their missions, and to return them 10% of the profits, Cassian bid them farewell. Max, throughout the entire meeting, was being silenced and comforted by Lady Eloithe.

### **A Little Rest and Relaxation**

The group spent around a month relaxing and preparing in Waterdeep, preparing for their long journey to Bryn Shander. Max attempted gambling, successfully to the annoyance of Arannis. He also attended a high class Gamble, invited by a pro gambler, Max managed to get double his money, and came away gloating and happy.

### **Meeting Random The Red**

Upon returning to the Inn the night before they set out for Bryn Shander, the group found a Tiefling; Random The Red, sat in their seat. Arannis was immediately rude to him, but Random merely bit back before explaining a mission he had. Drada, a Dark Elf (Drow) had returned to Skullport, a secret, underground city beneath the city of Waterdeep. He told them how to get their, and that taking out Drada should be quiet and not affect the trade there. After the group asked what would happen if they came back with Drada alive, Random stated they deserved to be paid a lot more.

As Random left them to get a drink, the group discussed their options before noticing someone watching them, as Max headed over to confront the lurker on another table, the group agreed to accept Random's offer, but not without looking like they declined the offer, not trusting the lurker who was now being distracted by Max.

Max pretended to know the man, acting to him like he'd just bumped into an old friend. However, the man revealed that he actually did know who Max and the rest of the group were. He stated that he wanted to double the offer Random had given them, and that if they did, he would need them to get Random outside for him, and their assistance would be needed.

As Max continued to speak with the lurker, Plink slipped a note explaining all into Random's pocket as the group feigned that they declined the request. As Random left feigning disappointment, Max returned explaining that the Lurker was an Elven man named Davon Skinner who was part of the Black Lodge, another adventuring party filled with the nastiest, most awful people who almost were the exact opposite of Mystic Obscura, watching as the armed individuals who had been hidden until now, left the inn calmly after Random.

As Mystic Obscura prepared to journey down into Skullport, the group agreed to head out at midnight in the cover of darkness, and headed to rest.

### **Journey To Skullport**

As the group headed out into the darkness, everyone tried their best to stealth as they reached the abandoned house. Finding the hidden door in the basement, they came across the base of some bandits, who they almost began to fight until Plink managed to bribe them into letting the group look for a hidden door, something the bandits didn't believe existed. Max was annoyed by this interaction, claiming that the group now had a way into Skullport, and that they deserved justice, not to live.

Despite this, Obscura found the door, much to the bandits surprise as the group headed down into the caverns below. After searching through the caverns, the group fought off rats and water spirits before finding a huge room, where two Ogres currently lay drunk and asleep.

Sneaking past, Plink headed for a room, only to return having been poisoned by a chest, but seemingly excited by what was inside. Asking for the bag of holding, Plink headed back, but due to her ill feeling, wasn't stealthy enough and alerted the Ogres, who woke angrily to the disturbance.

Fighting the Ogres, the group managed to dispatch them and made camp in the dungeon for the night. As the night passed on, nothing disturbed the group. Upon waking, the group began to gather their things and headed to leave, when the sound of scraping and splintering wood could be heard.

A door on the other side of the chamber burst open, revealing two ghouls heading for the pair. Balasar was almost killed in the attack, but the group managed to kill one, while Maximilian used a spell that sent the other fleeing. Where it went, however, remains a mystery.

Carrying onward, the party ended up heading down into a maintenance area of Waterdeep, where they encountered and fought a strange type of fish creature, who they did not manage to identify. Plink and Arannis saving each other in a display of teamwork, while Balasar once again found himself in danger.

Managing to dispatch of the creatures, the group moved forward and found themselves slinking their way through thick, long cobwebs. Two Spiders from a different Plane emerged on either side of them, and after a rough fight with Balasar almost dying again, the group managed to defeat the two Spiders, with Plink unlocking the gate into Skullport.

### **Arrival In Skullport**

Upon arriving in the city, the group found themselves among thieves, rapists and murderers of all kinds of species. Keeping themselves to themselves, the group attempted to get in to a higher class establishment, but failed and were forced to find an inn that specifically catered to Orcs. Aegon was the only one who the Orcs would listen to, and managed to get them a room each for the night.

Arannis and Adrie attempted to sit downstairs, but Aegon suggested the group move upstairs, with Max bribing Arannis into a gambling game, as long as he came upstairs with the group.

### **Adrie's Explanation**

As the group awoke the next day, Adrie revealed the truth about Bird and the artefacts. Arannis assured Adrie his promise to protect her still stood, shocking Plink at the fact he kept this from her. After, Arannis left the room as Adrie continued to explain about the book she'd been tasked with guarding. Revealing scavengers had attempted to retrieve it, and that it released a powerful evil Prince; Rynyk Oldoak, into the world.

It was Adrie's mission to protect the book, and get the artefacts back to her home, where they could be kept safe.

### **Arannis' Discovery & Aegon's Backstory**

Leaving the room for unknown reasons, a slightly sad Arannis headed downstairs only to overhear two people mentioning each other. Two orcs known as Garhan and Agronak were arguing with each, referring to Drada in the process. Arannis watched as they left at his presence, noting him with disgust as they did.

Arannis meanwhile sat in a booth, unable to get a drink from the Orc Bartender who wouldn't serve him. Aegon came down, and was about to ask what was wrong with Arannis as the Moon Elf remembered the names he'd just heard.

Aegon slammed his fist into the tables, before asking the bartender in Orcish where he might find his brother. Aegon then asked Arannis to come upstairs with him, Arannis joking he'd never refuse. As they arrived back with the group, Aegon explained his backstory regarding his brother, although it was stated that this wasn't all of it. Aegon suspects his brother of killing his father, and wants answers, but they would have to head to a tavern called 'The Drowned Elf.'

Arannis and Adrie decided to stay back, looking for the artefact, while the rest of the group would head off down to the Docks to find Aegon's brother.

### **A Short Goodbye**

Before the group split off, they had their alternative conversations. Arannis and Plink exchanged a tense discussion, Plink obviously angry at the secrets Arannis had been keeping from her. Arannis promised Plink he would reveal all his secrets, upon his return. Adrie and Balasar wished each other a farewell, Balasar telling her to be safe. Arannis warned Max to be careful around Aegon, while also telling him to watch out for Plink. The group departed ways, Balasar not trusting that Arannis would keep Adrie safe.

### **The Drowned Elf**

Heading down into the Dock Ward, Eloithe managed to locate the Drowned Elf, an inn within the rough area. Heading inside, the group found themselves in pitch blackness, Maximilian and Balasar completely blind in the encounter. As Plink made to look around for anyone showing themselves up, Max decided to cast Detect Magic, earning the anger of the occupants; the Drow. The inn, which was full of the Drow, became tenser until Eloithe dragged Maximilian out, Plink leading Balasar as Aegon followed up the rear.

Outside, Eloithe was knocked down by a Drow, but managed to catch the tongue they were speaking in, and worked out that the Dark Elf who had sent her tumbling was in fact, Drada Zeltine, the Drow they were currently looking for. Overhearing what they said, Eloithe made out that they were planning to finish the business with the Orcs, before killing them all.

Plink volunteered to follow her, Eloithe having Zelda accompany her as they stealthily followed her down the busy streets, finally reaching a dead end in an alley, where Zelda nudged Plink to return to the group, so they could come back here together.

As this was happening, Maximilian declared they should return to the inn, and find Arannis and Adrie, who he believed would be waiting for them.

### **Reuniting and Finding Drada**

Upon waiting for an hour and a half, the group were both shocked and relieved to find Arannis and Adrie alive, Adrie receiving a very worried Balasar, who wanted to make sure nothing bad had befell her. Arannis received a slap, followed by a hug from Plink, who had been sick with worry. Eloithe explained their plan, as Arannis asked her to heal him slightly.

With that, they headed back to the alleyway, finding a secret entrance where Aegon tried a different attempt of interrogation. In his rage, he would ask them 'Where is my brother?!" before killing them on the spot. Arannis noted this probably wasn't the best way to interrogate someone. The group seemed slightly concerned for Arannis, when he began laughing after killing a Drow. Eventually the group found Drada, Aegon killing her with a spear, after asking her the question she never got to answer; again. Upon this, Arannis took the ring from her body, and spat in her face.

The group was disturbed, Aegon questioning the move, with Max chiding that the group were being led by their quests for revenge, rather then their heads. Arannis declined to answer his reasons. Eloithe and Plink found papers regarding to raising and training Bad Dragons. Before the group could do anything else, Eloithe found a hidden doorway in the floor, and headed down into the pits below.

### **Garhan And The Dragon Kin**

Upon finding the Garhan, and fighting him, the Drow alongside him summoned a Young Black Dragon, which Adrie managed to entangle and hold down. Aegon, screaming his question again, attacked Garhan, and after a vicious fight, Aegon looked incredibly injured. Luckily, Eloithe managed to communicate with Zelda through their bond, and telepathically spoke to the Dragon, convincing it to cut it's ties with it's master, and go it's own way.

The dragon, being convinced, turned on Garhan and killed him, before he was able to answer Aegon's question. Again. The dragon left then, taking the dead body of the Drow with it as it jumped back into the water and swam away. Zelda was vanished by the action, receiving some kind of telepathic backlash, that Eloithe knew she'd have to deal with later.

### **The Disappearance of Arannis**

Plink, seeing the dragons treasure at the bottom of the lake, began diving in and collecting it as everyone dispersed, setting about counting the money, or resting. A fog swarmed towards Arannis across the underground river.

The mist grew thick around Arannis before it consumed him completely

And with that, Arannis was gone, as was the mist. The group left, without a member.

### **Awakening And Meeting Helga**

Arannis awoke to find himself in a small, dishevelled and cob webbed room. Exploring, he found himself within a castle. Sliding on Drada's ring, he moved forward and found himself heading down into a small room, where he met Helga Ruvak, a woman who proclaimed to be a maid within the castle. She explained to him he had been captured by the Vampire Lord Strahd von Zarovich, who regularly brought adventurers to their doom here.

Arannis, angered by this, handed Helga his quarterstaff, finding himself trusting her for some strange reason, and napped while she waited for him to rise. When nothing happened, the two headed on, looking for a way out of the castle, so that Arannis could get Helga home to her father, the Baker.

### **Meeting The Master**

After a descent into the castle, Arannis and Helga battled skeletons before finding a room made of bone awaiting them. The tables were bone. The chairs were bone. The walls, aligned with bone. And sat at the table, was Strahd. Arannis initially tried to fake his way out of the room, but Strahd informed him he knew who and what he was, and that he should sit.

Strahd informed him that Arannis was here to do a mission for him, otherwise he would turn Arannis into a vampire and send him back to kill his friends. Arannis made a request for rest beforehand, and Strahd agreed while Arannis confirmed he would do it. Strahd even confirmed that should Arannis complete his mission, he would be returned home, as would Helga.

Strahd invited Arannis to sleep in his bed, which Arannis stated he would. Upon entering the room, he found a young woman who was asleep on a long chair. Waking her, the woman explained she hadn't been here long and was sleepy.

Arannis stated she could take the bed, and that he would sleep on the chair. As she moved to the bed, a wall near the bed opened and Arannis watched as Strahd sunk his fangs into the woman, drained her dry and carried her out stating she would be, down with the others.

Arannis, fearing the hidden wall, slept on the couch until he was awoken by Strahd's Elven servant; Rahadin, a Dusk Elf who slaughtered his own race because he found them to be weak. He led Arannis out of the castle and too a carriage.

### **Into Vallaki**

Arannis was dropped off at a village, with instructions to enter, take bones from beneath an alter in the church and deliver them to the Coffin Maker.

Arannis tried to fool the guards into letting him in, but when his deceptions failed, he used Suggestion to have them unlock the gates and allow him entry. Moving quietly, he arrived at the church to find a sermon as the Priest, Father Lucian Petrovich, tried to preach happiness and joy. Father Lucian watched as Arannis waited for everyone to leave. Attempting to intimidate him, Father Lucian stood strong when Arannis tried to make him leave, without looking away. When that failed, they both spoke about his god. Arannis persuaded the Father to return in the morning.

Moving to the alter, Arannis removed the bones, and took them to the Coffin Maker. As the man opened the door, he was outraged to discover what Arannis had done, and informed the elf he was an Agent of Evil. Arannis slammed the bones into him and told him to do what was needed.

He returned to the carriage and was taken back to the castle, staring at his Green Dragon Scale, that Hector gave him before his death.

### **The Truth**

Upon returning, Arannis found all three of the people he'd met waiting for him, The Vampire Lord, The Elven Warrior and Helga. Eating, Arannis and Strahd discussed how Arannis had done well, and that he would be returned home.

However, there was a second part of the contract that was required. Should and when Strahd finally dies, he has made a deal that Ravenloft should have a master; with the Dark Powers, who created the realm they are in. Arannis eventually realised Strahd meant himself.

The deal was forged as Strahd showed him Mystic Obscura, fighting Cassian who became a werewolf. Arannis seemed shocked. It was either this, or his party would die, as would Arannis. Signing the contract, Arannis referred to Strahd as a monster, while Helga revealed she was a vampire all along, promising Arannis he could punish her upon his return.

Strahd handed Arannis a silver necklace, stating that it was for Lady Eloithe and that it would save her life. Arannis took the chain, and found himself awakened.

### **Back In The Inn**

Awakening in his bed, Arannis believed he had been dreaming, finding himself back in Waterdeep. However, as he wiped his head, he found blood from his hand where the signature had been made. It had all been real...

### **The Deadly Deceiver**

Upon hearing a knock at the door, Plink's voice ran through, asking Arannis is she could enter. Allowing her entry, Plink stated she couldn't find anyone else and that she had just got back from the North Ward where they had dealt with Cassian, informing Arannis that it hadn't ended well.

Confirming he was alone, and that he didn't know where anyone was, Plink reacted violently and pushed him from the window. Smashing through it, Arannis managed to react quick enough that he caught himself on the ledge. Plink stated she should have killed them anymore, and as she went to do something else, Arannis released his grip from the side and allowed himself to drop.

Looking back up, he found Adrie peering over the edge. Knowing it was a trap still, he stated he wouldn't fall for it again and held up the chain that Strahd and given him. Faltering, Adrie attempted to charm him, but found it unaffecting against Arannis. Having had enough and needing to escape, Arannis let loose a fireball that singed her skin, and revealed her to be Lady Ada Mistborn, who managed to shrug off most of the effects before turning into a bat and flying off into the night.

Fleeing, in fear of her giving chase, Arannis headed North towards where she'd stated his friends were.

### **A Panicked Reunion**

As Mystic Obscura descended towards the Inn, noting a fire and worried for Arannis, Aegon collided into someone as they turned a corner down an alleyway. Looking back, Arannis found them and was extremely pleased to see them. He hugged Plink and explained what happened with Ada. Lady Eloithe reiterated back to him what had happened, as they headed back to the Inn to help.

Managing to douse the flames eventually, Arannis handed Eloithe the necklace that had 'A+P' carved into the center. The group revealed this was the symbols for Ada and Parthinia Quell, who Balasar revealed to be the woman who killed and/or imprisoned his tribe.

Appearing seemingly out of nowhere, Random stated they all needed to get off of the streets and took them to the Naughty Gnome, an establishment run by a red headed woman by the name of , who Random stated was very dangerous.

Maximilian quietly queried where Arannis had been, who in turn replied that he would explain all later. Arannis queried Max about what his god was called, chuckling slightly as Max replied, noting how it was nice to be on a Plane where more then two existed.

### **The Justice We Make**

Upon waking up early, Arannis awoke Maximilian with Tea and asked him a few questions, Max seemingly trying to awaken as Arannis woke him up. Asking him whether a good person can do a bad thing for a good reason, Maximilian seemed concerned about this, but stated that it was for the action to be decided on. Questioning why Arannis was asking this, the elf dodged the question before heading to get dressed, stating that it wasn't really Tea in the cup, but instead cold Water. Max wasn't happy.

### **Rest and Revelations**

After resting for the night, the group arrived in the main Private Common area provided by Madame Rovny, and discussed what had occurred. Arannis admitted he had been taken to the Dread Plane and saw a vampire lord, admitting that he had been forced to work for the vampire or be turned, and returned, to kill his friends, the group forgave him as he explained what happened.

Aegon went on to explain why Agronak wanted him dead, the group listening as he recalled how as Aegon tried to learn his rage, he accidentally killed Agronak's wife in the process. Agronak was enraged as Aegon banished himself, Aegon explaining he hadn't seen his brother since that day, and that he felt bad for what had happened.

Regarding Parthinia Quell, Balasar explained that she was the woman who killed or enslaved his tribe, and that when he returned he found a warrior barely clinging onto life, who told Balasar what had occurred after he had left the tribe.

As Arannis and Lady Eloithe tried to plan the trip north, the group went there separate ways for discussions.

### **A Friendly Warning**

Upon getting drunk, Plink took Maximilian to one side. Stating that he needed to consider his actions; Plink warned him that she was annoyed that Max had disregarded their feelings and almost killed Adrie with his thunder wave spell. Max seemed to realise this, stating he was sorry and that he would try to be more careful. Plink also asked Max to watch out for the group, stating she wasn't sure she was going to survive this adventure.

### **Escape From Waterdeep**

Upon their final day within Waterdeep, the group gathered supplies and prepared for a hasty exit. Random arrived to inform them that bodies had been found within the inn, Arannis reacting in shock that not only had he accidentally killed another Adventuring Party, but also Rillix, Adrie's pet Tressym.

The group escaped through the sewers and began their long adventure northward.

**A Lost Elf**

 While Plink was underwater collecting some of the dragon’s treasure, The fog cleared and the group finally took notice of Arannis’s disappearance. They searched all throughout the dragon’s layer and in the water. Mystic Obscura believed Arannis was washed away with the current and emptied out into the bay. The group decided to check back at the Inn to see if Arannis went to meet them back there.

### **Proof For The Tiefling**

Upon their way back to the Inn, Adrie apologies to Balasar for her carelessness, while Aegon carries Eloithe after her familiar vanished leaving her exhausted. the group decided that It would be best to provide further proof of Drada’s demise. Maximilian suggested cutting off her head, wrapping it in her cloak, and placing it in the bag of holding for Random to see.

After some disagreement, the head finally comes off and is placed in the bag of holding, unaware of Maximilian's ulterior motive.

### **Let’s Not Lose Our heads**

Once inside the inn, Maximilian takes the head from the bag of holding and goes to his private quarters. He casts the spell “Speak to the Dead” and the head of Drada comes to life. With this spell, he is able to ask Drada 5 questions, only to realise she is speaking in Drow and not common tongue. Maximilian then brings the head back to the others to help decipher her, receiving shocked expressions and a few screams from the female members.

The room settled and Aegon then communicates with Drada. He asks her five questions regarding Agronak, The Artefact, and what they were planning with raised dragons, all receiving cryptic answers that could be deciphered.

Drada’s soul then returns to her final resting place, and the team is left with what to do next. After some discussion, Mystic Obscura decides to go to the Mind Flare’s cave and retrieve the artifact for The Book Going Forth By Night.

### **Into The Mindflayers Fortress**

Adrie leads the adventuring party to the cave the same way her and Arannis did before. Sensing her nerves, Balasar stayed right beside her. The group ventures deeper into the Mindflayer’s cave and they run into two Orags. Defending their master’s layer, they fight the team only to be Brought down by Aegon and Plink.

The further they venture into the Mindflayer’s fortress, the group encounters three goblins and one ogre. During their battle, Eloithe is met with a Bugbear and took a serious blow. Aegon sees this and goes into a rage, killing the beast. The other beasts are finally slain and the team ventures forward.

Mystic Obscura soon finds the entrance to the Mindflayer’s quarters and they begin to search for the artifact. They search each room with no luck, although Lady Eloithe learns that the Mindflayer is affiliated with demonic summoning. Adrie and Balasar venture forward and run into two twin Vampire-Spawn. The group comes to their aid when Aegon gets bitten by one of the vampires while taking her down. Eloithe sees this and is determined not to have anything happen to Aegon and Eldrich Blasts the second vampire. Eloithe learns that the two vampires were Waterdeep elitist that had disappeared a few months ago.

### **Deceived By The Devil**

Searching more of the rooms for the artifact, Maximilian and Aegon hear the sound of a young girl crying in one of the rooms. Maximilian encourages the adventuring party to investigate the voice, while Eloithe urges caution. As they venture down the narrow hallway, the voice begs the party for release. Maximilian, captivated by the voice wishes to help her, while Adrie notices that something is off with the situation.

Maximilian and Eloithe round the corner and see the girl trapped in a sealing circle and Eloithe recognises this as a seal to trap devils and believes releasing her would release a devil into Waterdeep. Adrie pushes past the team when Eloithe shares this information and tries to convince Maximilian to leave the girl, however, Maximilian was so entranced with the girl he saw no problem. Eloithe and Adrie continuously try to convince Maximilian to back down until Aegon finally carries Maximilian out of the room and the shrill screams of the devil fill the atmosphere.

### **Familiars And Fires**

Mystic Obscura finds the study belonging to the Mindflayer and his familiar, a cat occupies a desk in the room. Plink tries to communicate with the animal upon realizing it is actually a familiar. Maximilian didn’t want to alert the Mindflayer of their presence and used the spell Sacred Flame on the cat, exploding it into nothing. Adrie and Eloithe become angry and scared knowing that with the Mindflayer’s link to his familiar severed, he will without a doubt come back to his home faster. The adventuring party hurries to look for the artifact and Eloithe keeps watch on the entrance.

Twenty minutes pass when two cloaked men and the Mindflayer appear down the hallway from them. They take low strides towards the group and Adrie shouts at the Mindflayer “where is the artifact of The Book Going Forth By Night?” The Mindflayer casts a spell that grabs onto the minds of everyone in the group aside from Eloithe, Maximilian and Aegon. His thoughts invade their minds and he demands what they were doing in his home. Adrie tells the Mindflayer that they are looking for the artifact and describes it to him as he pulls it from his cloak. Maximilian and Balasar attempts to intimidate the Mindflayer stating that attacking them would be a huge mistake, receiving a lightning attack leaving balsa unconscious and Maximilian more injured.

The Mindflayer tells the group of his two vampire friends that they had killed and Eloithe tells the Mindflayer that she knew them and for every week that she is in Waterdeep, will visit the Mindflayer as payment for the artifact. The Mindflayer ultimately accepts and tells the party that they will investigate the vampire that turned his friends, bring back that information to him and informs Eloithe that if she betrays her, will use her celestial blood, and throws the artifact toward the group.

### **A Warlock’s Word**

Before Mystic Obscura is escorted out of Dissumusk’s cave, the Mindflayer gives Eloithe a mysterious cloved stick that smells sickly sweet. He instructs her that she most break this and be teleported to his summoning circle as part of their agreement. Mystic Obscura venture back to the inn and retire to their rooms. Maximilian uses the spell “Sending” to locate the whereabouts of Arannis. He learns that Arannis is in another dimension and relays this information to the team. Relieved to know that their friend is at least alive, the company grows sombre digesting that Arannis is possibly in danger and that there is physically nothing they can do to bring back their Moon Elf. Adrie checks with Eloithe and apologies to her for having to make such a huge sacrifice for her. Eloithe reassures Adrie, hiding her pain from the wood elf.

### **Bird’s Tough Love**

While the group rests, Adrie calls upon Bird to show him the artifact. Bird is pleased that she found it and tells her that it will now be easier for her to find the other artifacts. Adrie tells Bird that she went through a lot of trouble to retrieve the artifact and Bird states that she was the one who agreed to locating the artifacts and it was to be expected. Frustrated, Adrie tries cutting off her connection with Bird, but Bird had no intention of being released. Bird informs Adrie that this is the life of an adventurer, and that things were only going to get harder. Her task for The Circle of Dreams is not an easy one, and if she really wanted to continue the mission on her own, then she would die. Bird then tells Adrie that she needs her friends to help her get through this and that it is okay for them to help her with her burdens. Adrie drinks this harsh reality, and thanks Bird for keeping her grounded.

### **Magic Matter**

Aegon goes down to the main floor of the inn and asks the bartender if he knew of any of his tribe members are still in Skullport, however the bartender didn’t seem to recall any of that information. Aegon buys a keg of Ale and takes his leave with the rest of the group. The Company goes to a local magic shop to  determine what each of their items can do. The artifact the team recovered from the MindFlayer is the Gem of Cittirine. A stunning purple and gold gem that is warm to the touch. It grows warmer as it gets closer to the other lost artifacts of the Circle of Dreams. The next item identified is the citern. After one becomes attuned to it, the wielder can cast its spells. Last is the trident, once attuned is a trident of Fish Command. Ellywick then sells her amulet she swiped from a Nobel in Waterdeep for 50 gold.

### **Journey Back To The Surface**

The group makes their way back through the sewers to Waterdeep. Back in the basement of the abandoned establishment they once came down by rope, they notice there are claw marks heading up into the old shack which is now even more battered and covered in blood. Mystic Obscura believes that the water spirit that they had gotten away from them on their travel to Skullport, attacked or turned the bandits they had bribed. The group finally arrive back in Waterdeep in the early morning.

### **Awards And Ambition**

After taking another long rest, Mystic Obscura meets with Random in a secluded park and presents the head of Drada, and the research they found for payment. They explain that Drada is working for Xanathar and Random explains that it would complicate things between Mystic Obscura and the Black Lodge.After an awkward exchange due to the smell and texture of the head, Random pays the team, winks at Plink, and takes his leave.

### **Look To Cassian**

Eloithe suggests that they meet with Cassian to give him the 10% from their last mission, and to see if he knows anything about the Vampire in Waterdeep. They make their way to Cassian’s home and he invites them in and offers them drink. The group explains to Cassian that Arannis had disappeared, Eloithe made a deal with a Mindflayer and they needed information about a vampire in Waterdeep. Taken back by all of the information he needed to digest, he explains that he cannot be of help but will continue to support the team.

### **Team RougeRat**

Mystic Obscura ventures to the address the Mindflayer gave them regarding the vampire. Not wanting to create anymore damage, the team takes a more stealthier tactic. Adrie turns into a Rat and her and Ellywick search the house. Every thing seemed normal aside from the trap door in the floor. The rest of the company gathers around the trap door as backup and Adrie and Plink go down to investigate. Plink opens a door in the tunnel and adore peeks in and the two find a room with 4 skeletal forms digging, two dead bodies on two tables, and an Undead creature standing over one of the bodies dissecting it. The creatures lock onto Adrie’s rat form and they start attacking. Adrie has turned back into her elf form and makes a run to the trap door. Ellywick dashes for the trap and makes it into the heart of the house. Maximilian , Aegon and Balasar jump down the trap and aid the girls. Ellywick jumps back down in frustration with Eloithe following behind as they take out the undead creatures.

### **Blood Revelation**

The company investigates the room and hear four beings sleeping behind one of the two locked doors. Before the group can assess how to approach this situation, in comes four Mistborn guards and Cassian as a wave of relief falls over Mystic Obscura. Cassian asks if they found what they were looking for and Maximilian points to the door with the four beings inside. Cassian looks to the lock on the door and suggests that maybe they are innocent. Eloithe puts together that the four beings inside the locked door are probably food, and the vampire is behind the other door. The company decides to free the captors first, then take care of the vampire and they unlock the door. The four women frightened but relieved, make their way to the exit when one of the ladies notices Cassian and lets out a shrill scream. Cassian lets out a sigh and cuts down the woman and turns into his werewolf form.

Mystic Obscura battles with the Mistborn soldiers and Cassian but are wary of going into a battle against their friend. Maximilian in the mists of battling one of the soldiers, he questions their loyalty to the Mistborn family, which earns the reply “Who do you think we are working for?” Eloithe hears this and is immediately taken back at the thought of her own family trying to kill her and her friends and can’t bring herself to fight against her own people. She casts suggestion to try to halt their attacks against her and her friends. One by now the group tries to convince the guards to halt their attacks and not attack their lady Eloithe. Balasar initiates the first attack as he sees they aren’t wavering from their mission. Cassian killed two more of the ladies being held prisoner, the last one making a run for it, however, Aegon stops her to try to get some answers.

Adrie turns into a wolf to try to communicate with Cassian when Maximilian uses Thunderbolt, knocking Eloithe prone and Adrie out of wolf form. Ellywick seeing Maximilian attack her friends, draws her bow at Maximilian and questions what he is doing. Maximilian and Balasar take out two of the guards when Cassian turns his full attention on the wood-elf and bites her, hoping to transform her into one of his own but the wood-elves strength shines through. Cassian proceeds to continuously bite and claw at Adrie, showing no mercy. Balasar sees this and that was what brought him over the edge. Balasar finishes Cassian before he can kill Adrie and the last guard is killed by the distraught Eloithe. Even in her catatonic state, Eloithe pushes through the final room in search of her answers that she fears is true. Her sister is a vampire, and her family tried to kill her to keep that secret.

### **Understanding The Impossible**

As Lady Eloithe attempted to come to terms with this, she vehemently denied that her family could have done any of this, and stated that this was down to Ada and no one else. When Maximilian asked what they should do with the body, the group agreed to leave it their, Lady Eloithe stating it would be 'Ada's' mess to clean up.

Upon questioning what they were to do next, Lady Eloithe declared they needed to speak with her father and that she was sure the rest of her family was innocent. Confirming this, they headed for her families home.

### **Oh Brother, How Art Thou**

Reaching the manner, Lady Eloithe and the rest of Mystic Obscura were greeted by one of their hand maidens, who ushered them in before going to fetch Lady Eloithe's brother; Edrick Mistborn, who noted their blood ridden clothes. As the handmaiden went to find their father, the group were questioned by Eloithe's brother, confused at their state.

Explaining what happened, Edrick, seemed shocked at the revelations about Cassian, but was more concerned about his younger sister, protectively checking her for injuries. Satisfied she was okay, the group learnt that Ada had been here only moments before, before heading to their Inn to find them. As if by magic, another figure entered the room.

Ada.

### **Oh Sister, What Art Thou**

Taken back by her sudden appearance, the group could only listen in shock as she revealed she had been searching for them, and that their Inn was burning down. She mocked that she had had a lovely chat with Arannis, causing Plink to jump forward in anger, only to be held back by Adrie.

As Ada and Eloithe's brother seemed confused at the tension, Ada informed Eloithe that she were to head North. Max tried to convince her they were actually heading south, but Ada merely dismissed his attempts and stated that she would see him in the North, and that she was meeting a friend up in the North; Parthinia Quell. Balasar reacted in rage to this, something that seemed to delight Ada, who also stated that she and her friend were doing business with the Orc's up North. She told Aegon she'd say hello to Agronak for him.

As Eloithe stated that she needn't head up north, Ada replied that she would otherwise she'd just be here, alone with their family. The group understood the threat, before bidding their farewells and heading towards the Inn, to put out the fire and hopefully find Arannis.

### **A Panicked Reunion**

As Mystic Obscura descended towards the Inn, noting a fire and worried for Arannis, Aegon collided into someone as they turned a corner down an alleyway. Looking back, Arannis found them and was extremely pleased to see them. He hugged Plink and explained what happened with Ada. Lady Eloithe reiterated back to him what had happened, as they headed back to the Inn to help.

Managing to douse the flames eventually, Arannis handed Eloithe the necklace that had 'A+P' carved into the center. The group revealed this was the symbols for Ada and Parthinia Quell, who Balasar revealed to be the woman who killed and/or imprisoned his tribe.

Appearing seemingly out of nowhere, Random stated they all needed to get off of the streets and took them to the Naughty Gnome, an establishment run by a red headed woman by the name of Madame Rovny, who Random stated was very dangerous.

### **Rest and Revelations**

After resting for the night, the group arrived in the main Private Common area provided by Madame Rovny, and discussed what had occurred. Arannis admitted he had been taken to the Dread Plane and saw a vampire lord, admitting that he had been forced to work for the vampire or be turned, and returned, to kill his friends, the group forgave him as he explained what happened.

Aegon went on to explain why Agronak wanted him dead, the group listening as he recalled how as Aegon tried to learn his rage, he accidentally killed Agronak's wife in the process. Agronak was enraged as Aegon banished himself, Aegon explaining he hadn't seen his brother since that day, and that he felt bad for what had happened.

Regarding Parthinia Quell, Balasar explained that she was the woman who killed or enslaved his tribe, and that when he returned he found a warrior barely clinging onto life, who told Balasar what had occurred after he had left the tribe.

As Arannis and Lady Eloithe tried to plan the trip north, the group went there separate ways for discussions.

### **The Beauty and The Dragonborn**

Heading to a private room, Balasar admitted that he didn't want Adrie anywhere near the situation with Parinithia, noting how she killed his last lover, and that she would undoubtedly kill her too. Adrie refused, stating she'd be by his side no matter what, taking his face in her hands. Seemingly waiting for some kind of interaction, Adrie found herself alone in the room as Balasar suggested they returned to the group, exiting quickly from the room.

### **Escape From Waterdeep**

Upon their final day within Waterdeep, the group gathered supplies and prepared for a hasty exit. Random arrived to inform them that bodies had been found within the inn, Arannis reacting in shock that not only had he accidentally killed another Adventuring Party, but also Rillix, Adrie's pet Tressym.

The group escaped through the sewers and began their long adventure northward.

### **The Fork In The Road**

As the group arrived at a Fork in the road, Lady Eloithe remembered that if they headed directly North, they would eventually come across the Mere of the Dead Men, a place where awful things; including two Black Dragons, made their homes.

Instead, the group decided to travel North East, the path also taking them to the Spine of The World Mountains, and hopefully, getting them their without any trouble.

### **Fun & Games**

Arriving in the town of Amphail, the group decided to spend the night in an Inn, and partake in the celebrations for the Lord of the Town's sixtieth birthday, noting that it didn't seem that news of their deeds in Waterdeep had traveled this far as of yet, with Plink informing Aegon he ought to wear the Hat of Disguise, as he was the most noticeable.

Aegon bet Arannis couldn't beat him at axe throwing, and Arannis replied that he would, for fifty gold. As the game began, Arannis cast a very obvious suggestion spell, and made Aegon throw the game. The town guards began to try to arrest Arannis, but were paid off by Maximilian. As Arannis mockingly thanked him, Aegon grabbed Arannis and threatened to hit him if he ever pulled a stunt like that again.

Shaken by the events, Arannis pushed away and returned back to the inn, refusing to speak with anyone or leave his room.

### **Knock Knock, Giants There.**

As the festivities continued, Giants attacked the town, lumbering through as Mystic Obscura; minus Arannis, faced them down. Aegon managed to fight and kill two of them on his own, displaying a fighting prowess combined with his rage, before being sat on by a third, but he was rescued by the group as Arannis finally arrived. Upon asking what happened, Max told them they'd taken care of it, with Arannis sitting sulkily while the group got the Giant off of Aegon.

The town's lord came over, thanking them for their rescue and offering them a meal with himself, and a night in his own. The group politely declined the offer, with Lady Eloithe informing him that they would gladly just stop in the inn, for which the Lord paid for instead.

### **A Job Well Done**

As the group sat at the bar, Max took Lady Eloithe to one side, asking her about how she felt with all the business regarding her sister. She stated she wasn't sure, but she knew that they could stop Ada, should the time arise. Max sympathized with her, stating he knew how she felt, and that if she should need anything, he would always be here.

The Town's Lord came over once again, offering Mystic Obscura their reward for beating the Giants. He'd gathered many things, including Gold and a pair of Dragon Boots, made from the skin of a black dragon.

### **The** **Northward Children**

Returning to travel North, the group came across a female Knight guarding a group of orphaned children. Lady Eloithe realized she knew the woman, , who she asked not to tell anyone that she had seen them. The Knight had obliged, before asking if the group would take the children to a nearby Orphanage in Red Larch, the next town North. Agreeing, the group made camp while Arannis and Adrie entertained the children, telling them stories and braiding their hair.

### **A Bitter Reunion**

Travelling further North, the Party found a group of Orcs, herding chained Halflings with them. Aegon recognized the leader as his cousin, a follower of Agronak. Before anything more could be done, the Party engaged the group, and managed to defeat them, before tying up Aegon's cousin, ready for interrogation.

### **An Orc's Honor**

After Restraining Aegon’s cousin, the company removed the chains from the halflings when Olly Woodhue introduced himself as the halflings current standing patriarch of their tribe. He asked if the “Mighty Ostriches” could escort them back to their settlement. Adrie checked on the orphans (Theo, Bradi, Braxter and Robinette) while the rest of the members confronted Zig. While interrogating Zig, he got under Aegon’s skin and demanded a one on one battle. Aegon was reluctant at first, but when Zig questioned Aegon’s honor as an orc, Aegon proved him otherwise in a battle to the death.

### **The** **Flight Of Life**

The “Mighty Ostriches” escorted the halflings to their settlement in Woodhew and helped clean up their town a bit with the exception of Eloithe “Lily” who helped with cooking. Olly Woodhue demanded they stay for the night and a celebration for their heroes, ending in a hearty feast with the company. The next morning, Olly gave the group a broom of flying for their help with the orcs and Arannis suggested having the kids go for a ride until Adrie put her foot down. Before departing, Plink gave Olly 20 gold pieces to help rebuild the town.

### **The Future Of The Realm**

The company took the long road and after two days, they finally made it to Red Larch. Arannis and Adrie took the kids to the orphanage and gave their heartfelt goodbyes. Adrie tried to hold back her tears as Arannis told the kids that they are going to grow up and change the world. Adrie gave each of the kids a token and Arannis gives the keeper of the orphanage 50 gold and told her to take good care of them.

### **Much Needed Baths And Beers**

Maximilian found a church while Adrie went for a walk in Red Larch, before they all took baths at the inn they checked into. Balasar spent most of his time in the bath while the rest of the company ventured to the pub after their baths. After a few drinks, Arannis strolled over to Maximilian and convinced him to join the fun. Plink watched this unfold and watched Eloithe suggest drinking one of every drink in the pub and state she could drink as much as Aegon. Maximilian held up Arannis as he tried to drink some more, and he proposes a challenge to the rest of the group. Maximilian suggests they drink and the first person who throws up first loses. Eloithe ended up loosing the bet, but not without Maximilian, Arannis and Aegon wagering 30 gold to the remaining man who pukes last. Adrie joined Plink in observing the madness as Max and Aegon lost their lunch, Arannis being the winner. While Max threw up in his helmet, Adrie and Plink helped lady Eloithe to her room as Arannis and Aegon passed out in the tavern.

### **Courting And Confusion**

After Adrie and Plink helped Eloithe to her room, Adrie headed to her room where she was stopped by Balasar in the hallway. Balasar tried to convey his feelings to Adrie, but after Adrie confessed her feelings to Balasar before they left the Naughty Gnome, she believed he didn’t feel the same and stopped his speech and tried to head to bed. Balasar stopped her once again and kissed her on the check before leaving. Once he was gone, Adrie released her tears and ran to Plink’s room and pounded on her door. Plink reassured Adrie of her and Balasar’s feelings and Adrie decided; to the annoyance of the gnome, to sleep in Plink’s room for the night.

### **The Fire Is In-Tents**

The group continued travelling North, Aegon, Max and Arannis being extremely hungover, while Lady Eloithe used magic to make herself instantly better. While Eloithe was on watch, the party was attacked by a group of Gnolls. The team woke up to the fight and take action. Adrie still confused by the kiss and having just woken up, accidentally lit Max and Arannis’s tent on fire. After a tough battle and a few close calls for Arannis, Adrie and Eloithe, the group investigated one of the Gnolls. During their investigation, they found a note, just as Adrie confronted Balasar, stating she didn't want any more confusion and proceeded to kiss him on the lips, before telling each other that they mean the world to one another. The note they found is written in Abyssal and Arannis translated it, saying that it states the Gnolls were meeting Each Snot Man and that he has the young sacrifices and to meet him at The Gates of the Dawn. Without hesitation, the group made their way to the Gate of the Dawn.

### **The Dark Lord And The Cleric**

During the two days of travel as the adventuring party made their way to the gate, Arannis pulled Max aside and offered him a healing potion for his wounds. Max asked Arannis if he was doing okay, but Arannis instead questioned why Maximilian jumped in front of him during the Null attack. Max stuttered in his reply saying that he thought the Gnoll was going to kill them and wanted to protect Arannis, but before he continued, Arannis interrupted Max with a hug. Shortly after Arannis pulled away and patted Max’s shoulder with a thank you.

### **The Leaping Demon**

Arriving at the gate, Plink snuck into the temple to scout out how many enemies they would have to face. Once the party was prepped with a game plan for rescue, they headed inside, only to be slightly overwhelmed by the number of Nulls and Maw Demons that they actually had to face. The battle went on and when the team started to feel victory on the horizon, a Barluboraz ; a Leaping Demon, came through the gate and goes after Eloithe, due to the Angel form she had adopted. Aegon seeing Eloithe in danger, tried to fight off the demon headfirst. The Demon knocked Eloithe unconscious and dragged her back through the gate, to the Abyss.

### **Into Darkness**

As Adrie and Arannis ran around the other side of the temple to find, release and arm the young sacrifices, instructing them to head to the nearest town, Aegon charged into the Abyss, with the rest of the group hot on his heels. The group found themselves in a dark and desolate forest, devoid of sunlight. As Aegon lead them, listening for the sounds of the escaping Demon, Arannis found himself panicking, his mind flashing back to the Dread Realm.

### **By The Water**

Aegon managed to lead the group to a small clearing, where a stream ran through the dark woods. Another demon had Eloithe by the river, while Gnoll's surrounded the clearing. The Leaping Demon nowhere to be seen, the group attacked. During the battle, Adrie fell unconscious while Lady Eloithe became possessed by one such demon. Aegon, unable to bring himself to harm Eloithe, used his quick thinking to feed Adrie a potion and get her back up, as the Demon attempted to leave Eloithe and enter Aegon, who luckily managed to resist it.

Adrie; enraged by almost facing her death at the hands to the beast, managed to slay it with the aid of Max and Aegon, before it could escape, while Plink, Balasar and Arannis finished off the Gnolls and a giant Hyena that had made it's way into the clearing.

Reviving Eloithe, the group were told by Max that they were in the Abyss realm. He stated, by the looks of it, the Gnoll level to be precise, ruled over by an angry Demon Lord who was known for his savagery and his merciless. The group agreed to try to get back to the gate, hoping to find a way home.

### **Of Two Faces**

Upon arriving back at the gate, it seemed that the group required a key to activate the gate and return to their home. Unsure of what to do next, the group made camp to work things out in the morning. Aegon questioned Arannis as to why he seemed to worried, and Arannis stated the Abyss was much like the Dread Realm, and he didn't want to spend anymore time here.

During the night, the group took turns on Watch in pairs, with many noting that they were being watched through the evening, even if they couldn't see where the eyes were coming from.

Awakening the next morning, the group were confronted by a Kishi Demon; a demon with both a man's face on the front, and a hyena's face on the back, who demanded they came with them to meet their master, or die here in this wasteland.

### **The Big Bad... Gnoll?**

Upon meeting the Demon Lord, he explained they were on but one level of the Abyss, and that he demanded they take a box with no lid, or seal, or latch to another level of the Abyss, and deliver it to the Inn Keeper of a certain tavern.

With much reluctantly, and on the threat of death, the group agreed. The Demon Lord warned them they must do it quietly, and not make any ruckus, for fear of the Demon Lord Grozzit finding out. Demon Lords were not permitted in other's realms, and should they be discovered, he will surely kill them all.

As the ground opened before them, the group descended into the hell hole below, and found themselves walking down a spiral staircase that seemed to go on forever. Eventually reaching the ground floor, the group found themselves in an empty, plain looking house. Stepping out onto the street, the group found themselves in a familiar; yet demonic filled, City.

Waterdeep.

### **Not In Kansas Anymore!**

After Max explained that it was probably an illusion, and that the Realm basically showed the group what they wanted to see, to make it more comfortable, they found themselves in the Huge Marketplace that was this level of the Abyss. Arannis, being the only one to speak Abyssal, managed to get directions to the inn they were to visit, and the group eventually found the barkeeper. Taking them into the kitchen, the Demon took the box and laughed, stating it would upset Orcus greatly. The group asked for directions to get back home, but the Demon demanded gold for the information. Adrie stepped up, giving him the gold before the Demon just went to walk away.

Arannis yelled for him to stop, and the two got into a heated argument as the man stated he just wanted Gold, and that he didn't know. As Plink went to cut the belt, the Demon caught her and lifted her up as Arannis stated he'd kill the Demon if he hurt her. The Demon laughed, stating they didn't know where they were, and that they should get out, now. The group, down on gold and information, began asking around for ideas, with one Demon telling them about the information broker at a certain inn.

Heading their, the group found a small Imp, who stated he would help them get home, if they got him a small Purple Gem worth a Million Gold Pieces. Plink, in her anger at wanting to kill the little Imp, who was obviously wasting their time, headed for the door as Adrie suggested she give her artifact to the Imp. The group stated that wasn't happening, as a Six armed Demon confronted them, saying Grozzit wished to see them.

Mystic Obscura attempted to escape, only to find themselves blocked in all directions. Without any choice, the group accompanied the demons, towards a Huge, White, Marble, Palace.

The Home of Grozzit.

### **Literally The Worst Friendship Deal Ever Made... Ever**

As the group found themselves in a huge, grand hall full of partying and feasting demons; and one, human looking woman, the group were presented to the Demon Lord Grozzit. He stated they were to stay within his home for one week, and that they would either become his great friends... or they'd die.

Told to sit, Demons left their seats as the group sat down with the human looking woman, who in turn revealed herself to be a God, captured by Grozzit after being bound into a human body, by people she believed to be her followers, but were instead Cultists worshiping the Demon Lord himself. She stated quietly that they might be able to help each other out, as Grozzit came over, smiling at his chained God.

### **A Night In Hell**

Staying in Hell, at the behest of Grozzit, the group are returned to private quarters, where they are left to sleep for the night. Arannis searches for secret entrances, finding some as Max heads off to the library. The group discuss they're escape, but Eloithe manages to convince them to play out the night, instead trying to gain the trust and favor of Waukeen, the goddess trapped by Grozzit.

### **Arannis, Meet Bird**

As the group seperated the following day before dinner, a few of them found themselves in the Library. After Arannis transcribed a few books, finding out about the rivallry between Grozzit and Orcus, the group seperated to different areas before dinner. Arannis found himself a particulary smutty book, taking it back to one of the rooms for "studying."

A knock on the bedroom door alerted him to Bird's arrival, who refused to say his name, before giving him a Powder that would help defeat One Demon, who wasn't Grozzit, and thus give them a chance of escape. Arannis attempted to stop Bird from leaving, but the two ended up in a small, magical duel which Bird won with ease. Arannis was forced to sit, as Bird chided Adrie for who she kept around her.

Running into the common room, Arannis threw Eloithe's candy off of the table and told the girls about what had transpired, Adrie coming to the conclusion that Arannis had just met Bird. Learning this, Aegon went off to find Max for dinner.

### **Discussing A Deal**

Finding Maximilian within the confines of the library, Aegon questioned him over the deal he'd tried to avoid talking about earlier in their travels. Max admitted he had made a deal with a Demon, for his sisters life. He asked Aegon not to tell anyone, for fear of overloading them with information with all that had happened. Aegon agreed not to tell anyone, but stated he thought the group would want to know.

### **One Hell Of A Feast**

As the group sat down for dinner, next to Waukeen who informed them that Grozzit was meeting another... guest, Max suggested they break out Waukeen and escape this horrific place. Arannis put forward Plink to do a performance as a distraction, while Max attempted to Dispel the Magic around Waukeen's chain. Successfully doing so, the chain was freed. Unfortunately for the group, demon's noticed this and called the Guards, who brought out a Chained Angel.

The group engaged the Angel, as Waukeen left them a gift before vanishing. Plink, managing to get the gift, open it to see it was a Purple Gem, the same one requested by the Imp back at the tavern they'd been arrested in, gained the upper hand on the Angel, managing to kill it with an Arrow to the Heart.

### **The Great Escape**

Launching into a sprint, the group fled from the Castle which had by now descended into chaos. Heading back to the inn, they found themselves ducking and diving to avoid being caught, only to be found out at the last hurdle. They were chased to the back door of the inn by a demon, managing to barricade it up, Aegon, Arannis and Adrie held the front line while Plink and Eloithe managed to barter with the Imp to get them home.

Upon giving him the Crystal, the group were given a key, which took them back to the Material Plane just before the Demon could break in. Arriving back, they realized their Horses and Chicken were missing... and about a Month had passed.

### **The Truth About Janak**

Plink, realizing what had potentially happened, admitted to the group that Janak was no ordinary chicken, but in fact was a Wizard cursed to being a chicken, and in need of his spell book to return him to his true form. A couple of the group found themselves dismayed at this, but Arannis just laughed, stating it was a very "Plink" thing to do.

### **The Race To Triboar**

Heading North on foot, the group found out that a man had passed through Westgate with a few children, selling their horses in the process. Max attempted to get the horse back, only to be laughed at by the farmer who passed by.

The group continued north, eventually coming to a clearing by a Lake as they settled down for what would turn out to be a long, long night.

### **Candid About Candy**

Max, watching Eloithe obsess about her candy, asked Plink to help him steal it, for her own sake. Plink, agreeing to it, managed to take Eloithe's candy without anyone noticing and gave it to Max, with only Adrie noticing as the Cleric released the candies into the Lake.

Eloithe found that she couldn't find her candy, thinking it had got lost somewhere along the way. Plink, seeing Eloithe incredibly distressed, glared daggers at Max.

### **On The Tip Of A Finger**

Arannis called Balasar over as he admitted he thought Bird might have a crush on him, but wasn't ready for a full time Relationship with a spirit lord. As Balasar attempted to comfort Arannis, Arannis revealed his true question. He asked Balasar if he'd seen anything like what was on the tip of Arannis' finger, the blood mark from where he signed the contract with Strahd. Balasar admitted he'd never seen anything like it, but that he should keep an eye on it. Arannis bid the dragonborn a goodnight, even though he was secretly worried.

### **Bird To The Rescue...**

Bird contacted Adrie at night, stating that Plink and Max were awful for stealing Eloithe's candy, before handing her a bag of minted candies, which he stated for her to give to the Warlock, to lift her spirits. Adrie agreed, before awakening.

### **Bump In The Night**

As Adrie went on Watch,she saw a figure emerge from the darkness at the edge of their Camp.Seeing it was one of the children, who had been sacrifices, she awoke everyone else as they brought in the child. He admitted that Janak had saved them from the Orphanage they'd come too, and that they were with him as he ran from something huge, which he lead away for them.

The boy; Hugh, begged them to save Janak and find his other friends, who were out in the wilderness hiding from the big thing in case it came back. Adrie stated she would go, and Arannis agreed to accompany her. As they went off, Max stated he worried that it might end up like last time they were alone, secretly worried for their safety.

### **Arannis And Adrie's Magical Adventure, Part 2.**

Heading into the woods, the group found a cabin which looked like the children had been stopping in, however they had left the building and the two of them eventually tracked them to a small cave.

Shouting out, they found the kids battered and tired, but safe. Leading them back to their camp, they kept them warm as Eloithe began to make breakfast. The group once again begged for Mystic Obscura to go and save Janak. Agreeing, they discussed what to do, and stated that they would take the children back to the cabin, before heading off and finding Janak, before it was too late.

### **The Cabin In The Woods**

Mystic Obscura took the children back to the cabin in the woods, telling them to stay put. Plink handed them daggers while Eloithe, who had a small chat with Zelda, left her familiar to guard them. They then set off to find Janak and whatever was chasing him.

### **Aegon's Blasting Off Again!!!!!!!**

Upon tracking down Janak, the group found him faced with the threat of a Stone Giant that was bearing down upon a wounded, tired Janak. Faced with the prospect of losing Janak before they got any answers, Mystic Obscura attacked and managed to defeat the Stone Giant, and claimed some good loot, such as the Wand of Wonders, which came into Arannis' possession.

### **Meet Janak**

Despite being rudely interrupted to Arannis, the group seemingly welcomed him as he spoke to them about how he was transformed, revealing it was done by someone named The Hollowed One, a lich. The Hollow One worked for Parthinia Quell, sending Balasar into a rage as the group headed back for the Cabin. His name is Vibaem, and he stole books from Candlekeep, one including Barovia and another on Desecrating.

He was changed back by a member of the Harpies, a secret society of good that changed Janak back to a human form, however, it was revealed it still wasn't his correct form, Vibaem having changed Janak twice, so that it would take longer for him to change back.

### **Max Learns The Truth**

Asking Arannis to head outside, Max questioned what was wrong with him, noting he was more of an ass-hole then usual. Arannis asked what Max thought the pinprick on the elf's finger was, and when Max didn't know, Arannis revealed his deal with Strahd.

Calling him a fool, Max seemed annoyed as Arannis exploded in rage, stating that he was trying to protect his friends, and his family; that being Plink. Max shook his head, and vowed that once this was sorted out with the group of villains, and up North, he would help Arannis find a way to break the deal.

### **Adrie Learns The Truthiest Truth...**

As Adrie headed inside, she noticed Janak once again glancing at her Artefact around her neck. He asked her why she had it, and she replied that she was collecting all the artefacts to bring them together for safety. Knowing what they were, he states "Why would you ever do that? Do you know what they do?"

And with that, Adrie began to question... everything.

### **Going Back For The Kids**

Janak tells Mystic Obscura of the Orphanage in Westbridge with a halfling working for The Hollow One and that he didn't feel right leaving the children under his care knowing the halflings background. The group doesn't hesitate and decided to head back to Westbridge to investigate further. Making their way with Janak and the children, they encountered three Crag Cat's, however, the 'Mighty Ostriches' took them down without a sweat. The group finally made it back to the main road and continued their journey back to the town.

### **A Cleric's Faith and an Acolyte's Guide**

Whilst walking along the main road, Max pulled Adrie aside for a private conversation. Max questioned Adrie's faith and wondered if she had ever lost her faith in her gods. He vents to her and explains that with everything that has been happening to him and his friends, he wonders if the gods are even listening. Adrie smiled and told Max that she has had those moments more than he thinks, even still, just when she starts to doubt, the gods do something to restore her faith. She then told Max that she finds faith is restored when you least expect it, and demanding answers won't help, just to continue down the path they have laid for themselves.

### **Spells 101 With Aegon**

Aegon asked Janak if their are any spells or rituals that can save or cure humans turned vampires. Janak explained that something similar can be done with the spell "True Resurrection", where the vampire dies, but can be resurrected as a new being. With that, Aegon learned that the spell is powerful and can only be done by a powerful cleric, or leader of a druidic circle. Janak then asked Aegon what was with the Moon Elf's behaviour towards him and Aegon explained that it was because of Arannis's dark past and that there is good behind his hard exterior. Later at dinner Aegon told this information to Eloithe to lift her spirits. Eloithe wondered if saving Ada is the best choice with the circles she is known to run with, Aegon stating that whatever she decides, he will support her.

### **The Wood Elf's Resolve**

Adrie vented to Balasar that she is beginning to question the mission her guide sent her on. She never questioned anything while living in the temple and with Bird, but now she's starting to think for herself. She has promised to continue protecting The Book Of Going Fourth by Night, but is unsure of collecting the Artefacts for Bird. Balasar comforted Adrie and stated he is always going to stand by her side, and with that, Adrie asked Balasar to use "Identify" on the book. Now knowing that the book's only magical property is the lock and the rest being how the prince was sealed, she can move forward with her self investigation.

### **I'll Do It For You**

Plink asks Arannis to apologize to Janak for his rude behavior and Arannis ultimately complies. The pair recollects on their time together and the moments Plink pushes for Arannis to be a better person. Arannis tells Plink that she is the best part of him, kisses her forehead and goes to apologize to Janak. He finds Janak going over some papers and goes to apologize when Janak stops him and tells him the story of an elf he knows that is just like Arannis. Janak continues to tell Arannis of this elf and how he lost everything and built up walls to protect himself, and it wasn't until he met him that the elf brought his walls down. Later in the story it is revealed that the elf in question is Janak's husband, who thinks he is dead once Janak was turned into a chicken. Moved to tears, Arannis continued with his apology and offers to pay for his new spellbook once they reached town, and lastly, tells Janak that he loves his friends, Plink more than himself, and that he hopes that Janak is reunited with his husband.

### **For The Kids**

Mystic Obscura arrived in Westbridge and makes their way to the orphanage to question the owner of the establishment. After questioning the owner and a few of the kids, the group learned that the halfling, Tallowhill, lives in a house outside of town and often goes on these "trips" to retrieve runaway children that never return. The owner informs the group that Tallowhill is actually on a trip now but will be home in a few days. Mystic Obscura summarise that he is kidnapping the children, but are unsure as to what for. After parting, Janak and the children stayed safe in an inn nearby whilst the party made their way to the cabin. Mystic Obscura broke into the home and tried to learn more about the disappearing children and what Tallowhill has been doing with them. Subsequently Eloithe found a safe after moving a brick that was out of place and they found two deals Tallowhill had made with The Hollow One and another, more secret employer located at Noanor’s Hold, a area East of Westbridge. They learned that Tallowhill ties the children around a tree in the woods and leaves them there until the next day when he returns to find nothing but a sack of gold for payment for the secret employer, while Vibaem is also taking children, as part of what he referred to in notes as part of his constructs. The adventuring party decided to wait for Tallowhill to return to restrain and demand answers from him.

### **First Blood**

Plink set up inside Tallowhill's home while the rest of the members were under Adrie's Hearth of Moonlight of Shadow, until Tallowhill came home. Tallowhill entered the home and was going towards the safe when Plink threw her dagger at Tallowhill. Struck, however not phased, the halfing pulled two swords from his sleeves and charged Plink. Arannis and Wolf-Adrie crashed threw the window as Plink was slashed heavily by one of the blades. Tallowhill let his assassination skills be known as he swung Plink into him and used her as a gnomish shield, holding one of his swords to her throat, threatening to end her if the group didn't step back. Arannis seeing Plink's state, noting her bleeding out from her side, told the group to stand down, not wanting to risk his best friends life.

Plink being a fighter however, not wanting to be anyone's victim or damsel, had other ideas. She looked to Arannis and gave him a nod, knowing he knew exactly what that meant. She reached into her pocket and threw the Bands of Binding behind her in an effort to break free. Unfortunately for Ellywick, Tallowhill dodged the Bands and slit her throat open before Arannis and the others. Just as the blade left her skin, Arannis's right pocket began to burn, and the Green Dragon Scale that he had ripped out of his component pouch and hit the hardwood floor. As this happened, the last thing Ellywick felt before everything went white, was her right side burning as well. Expecting to be brought before the gate of her god, she instead found herself in a castle hall with a large table stretched across the room, and by her side, Strahd. He stated that it was not what he was expecting...but he'll take what he can get before everything went white again.

The bright light was gone as quickly as it came and Plink was once again standing before the group, unharmed. With Tallowhill still caught off-guard by the light, Plink turned and stabbed him as Eloithe flew into the room to knock him unconscious with her Eldrich Blast. Arannis ran to Ellywick and scooped her into his arms, kissing her all over and yelling at her to never scare him like that again. Max and Aegon restrained the assassin as the group collected themselves. While retrieving the dragon scale that brought her back, Arannis noticed that his pinprick from the contract with Strahd had vanished from his finger. Plink checking over her body, coming to the realisation that she had just died, noticed a small, faded pinprick on her finger.

### **Tell Us What You Know, Or Else**

Plink, Eloithe, Max and Balasar interrogated Tormund. They learnt, with a death threat from Plink, that Vibaem introduced Tormund to a Dwarf at Noander, a small mining town. He told the group Vibaem was Cold, Cruel and Pragmatic. He stated to Balasar that he had learnt to fear Parthinia and that she was in a three way marriage with Ada and Cassian. He stated Vibaem was a lich, and was incredibly powerful and dangerous. In anger, the group escorted Tormund back to the village, where he was tried and put to death the following morning.

### '**Triboar Trip Ups'**

The group arrived in Triboar, arriving at a tavern. Before they could do much more, the town was attacked by a horde of Giants and Orcs along with some kind of fire creatures. Mystic Obscura managed to defeat them, while also obtaining information regarding why they were here, namely speaking to locate the rare metal substance of Adamantine. The group also met Darathra, the former adventurer who now ruled the town, and helped them defeat the Orcs. She thanked them for there help and Eloithe questioned whether there was any kind of statue or such, like the Nightstone, that the Orcs might actively be searching for. Plink also recognised someone from her past, on the battlefield, although kept quiet regarding it.

### **Balasar Admits The Truth**

As the rest of the group awoke, sans Adrie, who had headed off with a local Druid tribe for a couple of days to pray, they convened in the Tavern bar area to discuss there plan, with Plink looking completely different (Hair down, makeup.) Urgala, the owner of the Tavern, stated that the Giants were becoming a problem and that the group were probably the best ones to deal with it. She informed them there was actually a Giant Slaying Axe to the East, hung up in the an Old Adventurers home, probably gathering dust. She states his name is Harvos, and that the axe might be some use to them, if they should head to the his manor and retrieve it, offering to right them a letter of introduction, to get Harvos to trust them.

As the group begin to disperse, Max heading off for the Triage, Urgarla remembers that a scroll came for Balasar a few moments before they awoke. Balasar sees the scroll, with both he and Eloithe realising it is a Waterdavian Noble seal. Balasar, recognising it, notes it is the Hallowell seal, the seal of his former master. Opening it, he finds a letter telling Balasar it was time to finish the journey they started on all those decades before, along with pieces of Arannis' hands.

As Plink and Aegon began to seethe, Balasar told his story. He stated Cainon found Balasar after a horrfic event left Balasar starving and dying in the woods. Cainon took Balasar in, training him in the ways of the arts of Magic. Cainon's brother, ended up marrying the love of Cainon's life, and was vicious and cruel to her. Cainon, banished from his family for speaking out, would often tell Balasar he should go back and kill his brother, to save her. Balasar held Cainon back each time, stating that it wasn't good for him. The two left on unfriendly turns, but Balasar had no idea why Cainon would want to hurt Balasar in this way, as he hadn't really done anything wrong.

As Eloithe went to collect Max, the group prepared to head out to the directions Cainon gave them, ready for a fight.

### **The High Ground**

As the group emerged from the forests, Cainon yelled across about how Balasar got his sister killed, and that they would end this today. A fight broke out, with an Oni also appearing out of nowhere to attack the group. As Zelda freed Arannis, Max fell unconcious but was eventually saved by Eloithe. Plink managing to heal Arannis's hands back slightly, he turned his attention to the wizard who had taken them in the first place.

Cainon eventually fell to Arannis; while the Oni was killed by Janak, who had just arrived in time. Arannis stated to Cainon before his death, that compared to what the group had done recently, he was 'Fuck All.' Plink eventually got to Arannis, kicking his shin and yelling at him for going off alone. He apologised as Balasar checked over the body of Cainon, taking a Cloak that could cast Dimension Door and slinking it over his shoulders.

The group found Cainon's cottage not long after, finding many items. Finding a diary, the group realised Cainon had eventually returned to his family, but through trickery, was sold into slavery down into Waterdeep before he could save his love. As Cainon eventually made a deal with a Mind Flayer, releasing him from his slavery, he headed back North, only to find his love dead, along with his brother. Without a way for revenge, Cainon blamed Balasar for holding him back, and had sought revenge ever since.

### **Plink Is Gone...**

As Max sorted through the money and items in Cainon's house, Arannis approached him. The elf explained he'd been quiet lately due to the prick on his finger having vanished, along with Plink's experience with death. He stated that he still didn't understand, just that Hector had told him that the Dragon Scale would keep him safe. Hopeful, Arannis explained he realised he was still loved, even from beyond the grave, and that Hector having saved him from the contract must mean that he was still with him, even now. Arannis asked Max; who was still slightly sceptical about the whole thing, to teach him how to be nicer. Max agreed, stating he looked forward to seeing Arannis change for the better.

As they did so, Plink called over her shoulder while she worked how to open a case. She didn't want to be called 'Plink anymore.' and that Ellywick (Elly) would be just fine. Arannis left the cabin on hearing this, unsure as to what it meant.

### **Return to Triboar**

As the group got back, having burnt down the house, Arannis played a practical joke on Janak, which scared the group before he rolled his eyes and wandered on. Eloithe spoke about perhaps buying a house here, stating it was a lovely area and that she thought it would make them a good waypoint, everyone seemingly agreeing with her.

As they got back to the Tavern, Max stated that he felt like they needed a drink and that they should rest for the night. Agreeing, Arannis and Elly declined, the latter grabbing two bottles of wine and taking the elf up to her room. Balasar asked Aegon for a word outside, leaving Max and Eloithe sat alone in the bar.

### **To Quest Or Not To Quest**

As Eloithe and Max sat drinking, bragging that they would out-heal the other tomorrow in the Triage, they were approached by Narth and Othovir; someone who Eloithe recognised as being from the disgraced family Margaster, former nobles of Waterdeep. As they sat down, Narth asked the group if they could do him a job and take some saddles up to Noander's Hold for him, to a Dwarf named Amrath for him. Eloithe told them they'd have to get back to him on it, in the morning.

As Narth left, wishing them a goodnight, Othovir stated he knew exactly who Eloithe was, and the group, but he would tell no one. He stated if they were such good people, he wanted to see the Margaster family suffer a little for doing the evil things they did, devil worship, eating peasants, etc. He stated their was a fault, near one of the families towers, East of here that had many magical items in it. He warned that it would be guarded by his cousin, a mage, but that it would help them greatly, and weaken his family, something that made him happy. Nodding to the group, he got up and left as Balasar and Aegon returned.

### **Random Reveals**

As the group spoke about the two jobs, they decided to accept both. Eloithe asked whether they should buy a farm here, having heard from Narth that the Summervale Farm was up for sale. The group agreed, even with the suggestion that they take in Orphan's and give them a home there.

Heading to meet with the Lord Protector of the town, Darathra, they found her in her office. She greeted them, telling them she knew who they were, and that the group she worked for had been watching them. She confirmed she was part of the Harpers, also revealing Random was also part of their secret society. Here to stop evil wherever it arrived.

She explained that she was worried no one was helping them with the threat of the Giants, and that her society wasn't taking the threat seriously enough. She asked the group to head up to Everlund, where her society has a big congregation, and that they will earn a meeting with the Harpers themselves.

Arannis asked whether they'd heard anything of the Black Lodge, with Darathra informing him they had headed North up the Coastal Road, but would keep looking for them until there task was complete. Arannis stated they'd be ready when the time came, with Balasar agreeing. The group also confirmed they had the money to buy Summervale Farm, something Darathra stated could be arranged.

A knock at the door alerted the group as Darathra's assistant told her that they had found the Adamantium underneath the town, that they she must come this instant.

As the group travelled down with her, they found the dig site to have uncovered a huge, Adamantium mass, with Plink realising it was in fact, a huge, Golem Finger... connected to a hand.

### **Return of The Druid**

As the group observed the finger, Darathra stated that this was obviously what the Giants had been looking for. She stated that they should return to their office to discuss what happens next, before the Party ran into Adrie. Returning from her trip with the Druids, she embraced Balasar as the group tried to make it seem like she'd missed nothing but a boring weekend. As they entered Darathra's office, she explained that the Druids had told her they had a scout who had seen the Zhentarim Assassins near the ruins of Nesme, reportedly waiting to meet with the Giants, in order to form an alliance and to plan an attack on the Moongleam Tower, in Everlund. Darathra asked the group to inform the Harpers there of this, stating they should have some time, as to attack the tower would take a long while of planning, due to Moongleam Tower being in a pocket dimension.

As Adrie get bringing up the trip, Arannis finally revealed what happened in a very deadpan manner. Adrie seemed upset at having missed the events, but was once again brought back to happiness upon the reveal of the fact they were going to buy Summervale Farm, making it their base of operations. In the inn that night, Arannis brought up the fact Darz was the choice for caretaker, something that brought Ellywick to question Arannis and Max's growing friendship in an attempt to throw them off the scent.

### **A Gnomish Past**

As Eloithe arrived back, she had everyone sit down, stating that to Ellywick that Darz said he "Admired her still." and the information regarding the Weevil. Seeing everyone's discomfort, Ellywick explained that when she was younger, she made an enemy out of the Thieves Guild in Neverwinter. She encountered Darz on many occasions, and eventually the pair fell in love.

As time went on, the Thieves Guild sent a man named The Weevil after her. They fought and Ellywick was left with many scars that still sat with her today. She explained she left Neverwinter, never seeing Darz again after that day. She stated he was a good man, and would make a good caretaker for them. The group finally headed off to bed.

### **Welcome To Summervale**

The group walked around the Farm, eventually deciding to purchase it. Adrie fell in love with the 180 Acres of land, asking Balasar to build her a tree-house out there. Arannis found solace within the basement, declaring it his new happy place. Lady Eloithe proceeded to agree the deal with the family, purchasing the farm with the help of Ellywick and her bag of holding. Deciding they needed to head out fast, the group didn't stay long as they decided to continue onward and complete various missions they knew they couldn't afford to be late for.

### **Trollololololololololololol**

The group traveled for a long distance, before coming upon the small town of Calling Horns. The group stayed in the inn, only to be alerted in the dead of night by Trolls attacking the stables. Rushing out, only Balasar knew enough about trolls to tell them to use acid and fire, and the combined efforts of the group saw the Trolls defeated quickly enough.

Heading to the Manor of the Village Lord; Tamalin Zoar, Arannis confronted the butler, who he mistook for a Guard, and lamented him for not helping them fight the Trolls. The door was promptly shut in their faces as the group chastised Arannis for his behavior, the elf not understanding why they were mad when he only told the truth. Lady Eloithe convinced the group to just keep going, stating that it was probably usual these days, and that there wouldn't be much to done about it now. The group retired, before heading out at the next light.

### **Up To The Hold**

Arriving in Noanor's Hold, the group encountered an Inn where the beer floated and the pumps pulled themselves. The innkeeper greeted them warmly, informing them about Amrath and how he was just helper for the true members of the Hold, The Hunt Lords. The group eventually headed up to the hold with the saddles from Narth. Allowing them entry into the Hold, Arannis used suggestion on the Dwarf to reveal the secrets of the Hunt Lords. They apparently had been Nobles who became corrupt, and were granted immortality through a pact with Parthinia Quill, although it is unknown what she received in return. Having gathered enough information, the group returned to the Inn to plan.

### **The Hunt Lords**

Deciding to ambush the lords, the group used magic to conceal them as they laid a trap which the Hunt Lords easily fell into. Mystic Obscura, thanks to the advantage of surprise, killed all of the Lords and their un-dead horses in a matter of seconds, with the use of high level spells. Defeating them, they looted the castle to find Amrath gone and a treasure trove of loot, that would fit them very well.

### **Our Friendly Enemies**

Carrying on from Noanor's Hold, about three days into the trip up to Everlund, the group found themselves camping by the road one night when a approaching group of caravans and guards moved down along the road. Deciding to welcome them, Mystic Obscura bid them a good evening and allowed them to camp near them. Most of the group, save for Arannis, went over and made conversation, with Lady Eloithe spying that they were part of The Zhentarim Mercenaries; the same group they had fought and killed in Nightstone. The group stated they were transporting hundreds of long and short swords up to Olostin's Hold. Deciding not to attack, Mystic Obscura bid them farewell a few days later, taking the information up to Everlund to tell The Harpers about this.

### **The Order of The Gauntlet**

Almost reaching Everlund, the group found themselves hearing a scream within the trees of The High Forest to the south. Moving in, they found a injured man who had been heavily beaten. Healing him, the man admitted he was a member of The Order Of The Gauntlet, a religious group of Good who worshiped the likes of Tyr, Helm etc. and fought for those who couldn't fight for themselves, being swift and just in the face of Evil. He stated he had been attacked by Two Ice Giants within the Forest, and that his squire had died in the confrontation. He and Max shared a short conversation about their God, before the group took him back to rest at their Camp. They took him to Everlund, where he bid them farewell and wished them safe travels.

### **Into The Everlund**

Arriving in Everlund, the group headed to a few bars. Settling on The Dreaming Dragon, they went in to purchase some of it's famous Elven Sweet wine, while Arannis went off to buy the group gifts as an apology for acting so rude in Calling Horns. Arriving back, he had purchased the Following books for them:

- How To Avoid Death In 10 Easy Steps, for Balasar.

- Faerun: A Map in Recipes, for Eloithe.

- A Crownsguard Guide To Interrogation, for Aegon.

- Fantastic Trees and Where To Find Them, for Adrie.

- Tyr: Quest Of The Faithful, for Max.

He stated he hadn't known what to get Ellywick, but bought her a drink instead. As the night went on, Ellywick headed to her room where she found a book and a note. The Note Read "I didn't know what to get Ellywick, but I knew Plink would like this, love always, A."

Looking at the book, it's title was 'The Daring Adventures of Taryon Darrington.'

### **This Drink Tastes Like A Portal...**

Awakening the next day, Mystic Obscura headed down to the specified Inn and showed the bartender the coin Darathra had given them to show. He presented them with drinks, which they gladly downed. Awakening, they found themselves in a room, laying on huddles of comfy pillows and surrounded by Tressym. They were greeted by a young girl named Elizabeth, who ran off to fetch Krowen. Arriving, Krowen Valharrow introduced himself as one of the higher ranking officials, and welcomed them to Moongleam Tower. He informed them Darathra had let him know they were coming, and that before they could officially enter the Harpers, they would need to sign contracts. Agreeing, the group spoke with him about all they had learnt, and he seemed incredibly intrigued.

At that point, the Master of Moongleam Tower, Daviana Yalrannis arrived and spoke politely with Mystic Obscura, welcoming them. She was informed about the impending attack, revealing them to have also made a deal with The Zhentarim, speculating that it was probably done by them to let their guard down. Seemingly pleased with this advantage she had now gained, she bid them farewell, before heading off to prepare for the attack. Krowen, seemingly happy with this, asked the group to follow him.

### **Fast Travel Activated**

Arriving in a circular room, the group found themselves looking down upon a weirdly shaped floor carved with many different and peculiar sigils. Krowen explained that this was the Teleportation Circle Room. They could travel to Neverwinter, Yartar, Waterdeep, Loudwater and Mirabar, and he offered the same travel to Mystic Obscura, provided they only use it for good reasons. Agreeing, Krowen went off to get some things for Mystic Obscura to use on their travels, mainly spell scrolls and a box to keep them in, while Balasar found himself with an admirer in a Tressym. Offering the Tressym, Balasar learnt the Familiar spell, and joined with the Tressym he then named Armistice. The group thanked Krowen, before departing and headed off for a drink back at The Dreaming Dragon.

### **How DO Noble's Feel About Half-Orcs???**

As Max and Eloithe sat together, Eloithe asked him to help her contact her father, by using the Sending Spell. Max, agreeing to do this, said he would come back later when she felt better. Getting up to get a drink, he met Aegon at the bar. Aegon; rather awkwardly, asked Max to see how her father felt about Half Orcs. Seemingly humored by this, Max agreed to do so, but stated he only had 25 words and it may pose a challenge. Aegon suggested he knew Max would find a way.

### **How Our Father's Sleep**

As Max returned with the drinks, he began the spell. As his mind connected with her fathers, he found it to have been placed within a magical slumber. Eloithe, panicking, asked him to contact her brother instead. Agreeing, Max tried again, and was successful. He explained she was well, but that she was also following her calling and that she would be home when the time was right, and also asked what had happened to her father. Apparently, as far as her brother knew, he had fallen into a Coma and Ada had taken over the family, although she was operating from afar. Eloithe told Max to tell her brother to be save, and that she'd be home soon enough. Seemingly down by this, Eloithe stated she needed a drink, and led Max to the bar.

### **Pay With Your Secrets**

As the group descended upon the bar, Eloithe explaining what had happened with her father and Max's spell, Arannis suggested a drinking game. As it began, Eloithe suggested the party paid in Secrets. Whoever lost, had to give out their secrets. As Eloithe won, many secrets were revealed including the fact Ellywick hadn't seen her parents in decades, and that Arannis's mother was murdered by the Drow, thus his hate for them. It wasn't until Max spoke however, that the group got oddly emotional. He stated he'd never had a relationship... nor had he ever been kissed. Aegon comforted him, stating he also had never been kissed, with Ellywick eyeing at Eloithe the entire time. As the night went on, Arannis got extremely drunk, and asked Max to help him back to his room as Aegon collapsed on the floor in a drunken heap.

### **First Kiss**

As Max helped Arannis onto the landing of the tavern, the elf stated he shouldn't be upset that he hadn't kissed anyone. He stated it wasn't anything that special, and that he shouldn't feel embarrassed or regret missing out. Before Max could reply, Arannis stated he'd probably regret this in the morning, before kissing Max on the lips. Pulling away, the drunken elf stated he'd now had his first kiss before collapsing onto his bed, instantly asleep.

As Max headed back downstairs, he found Ellywick still awake at the bar. He explained what had just happened, with the Gnome stating Arannis has kissed a lot of people, and that it probably wasn't anything serious. Max agreed, stating he'd never thought about Arannis that way before, but that she was probably correct.

### **Up To Silverymoon**

The following day, the group left for Silverymoon, with only Eloithe and Max feeling well, thanks to their healing abilities. Arannis didn't speak to Max the entire trip, while Eloithe contemplated what to do moving forward about her father. As they arrived in the City, the group declared they should stake out the house before going back at night.

### **Sorry, The Window Was Open**

As the group arrived back at the Margaster house, they began to sneak around. Sneaking through a window, Ellywick and Arannis were quickly ambushed due to the noise made by the others outside. They were attacked by two Cambion devils, and the Mage herself. After a long and arduous battle, which resulted in Arannis falling unconscious and Ellywick almost getting entangled by Adrie, the mage fell to the combined attacks of Eloithe and Aegon. Max ran to get Arannis up, but Eloithe had already gotten to him first. He stated he'd like to leave this house, and that Eloithe was right, it was a very bad place. She agreed.

### **A Vault With Absolutely Nothing Evil In It, At All, Ever, According To Balasar.**

As they found the vault Othovir had spoken of, they found multitudes of magical items. Magical Exploding seeds, a monks belt and a strange, dark wood, staff. Balasar, picking this up, was at first worried it could be evil, but upon contact with it, found he trusted the staff completely. The group decided to make a quick exit, before more guards arrived.

### **A Dream To Remember**

As the group traveled onward to Zymorven Hall, they came to rest a few times on the trip. Eloithe, heading to rest, found herself surprised to have contacted Kaisa, her celestial guide, in her dreams for the first time in a long while. Kaisa apologised for this, before stating she wanted Eloithe to ask Harthos, up in Zymorven Hall, for the Ring he has that can help her. It belonged to his heir, but as they were dead, it would be useful for Lady Eloithe to use. Agreeing, Kaisa told her not to tell anyone else, as she didn't trust members of the group. When pressed on this, Kaisa stated she should be mindful of the Moon Elf, stating there is darkness that lies in him that even he isn't aware of. She warns that blood calls to blood, and that 'She' is coming for him. Eloithe agrees, before being awoken by Arannis, who states everything is quiet and it's time for her watch. Eloithe thanks him, before heading out to Watch, with many thoughts in her mind.

### **A Memory To Forget**

As Arannis enters his Trance; which elves use for sleep, he remembered a memory as he dreamed. A memory of the death of his grandmother, a kind, caring Elf. He remembered his father, and sister, both of them Cold, cruel almost. He remembered being the loving, warm grandson he wasn't anymore. And he remembered his grandmothers last wish, as he stood by her death bed, as she stated he could be so much more. And that he could be better then them. She apologised to him, Arannis unsure as to why, before his father; Eldrin, interrupted them and told Arannis to go and study.

### **An Effective Barber**

The next morning, as Eloithe thought on her dream, and Arannis dismissed his, concentrating on practicing with his monk belt, Aegon approached Ellywick over breakfast. He stated he wanted a change, and asked her to use her swords to give him a haircut. Despite being cautious at first, Ellywick agreed and using the blades, cut his hair successfully, with Eloithe stating he looked dashing.

### **The Halls of Zymorven**

As the group arrived at Zymorven Hall, they found a old, not particularly busy castle. They were eventually greeted by the man himself, Harthos Zymorven, who only welcomed them in upon reading the letter from Urgala Meltimer. He was distant and cold with them, but invited them to have dinner. As they sat, he discussed his past and mentioned his daughter, Sasha, in passing. He invited them to stay in his castle at night, and would have the Axe prepared for tomorrow.

### **Midnight Talks**

As the group headed off to sleep, Arannis knocked on Max's room. Still awkward from their kiss, Arannis eventually broke the ice by apologizing. Max assured Arannis that he knew it meant nothing, and that Ellywick had already informed him that the Elf would kiss many people without it meaning anything. Arannis headed to leave, before stating he was sorry he kissed him drunk, not that he was sorry he kissed him. Leaving the room, the Elf collided into Adrie, making awkward small talk between the two before Arannis hurrdily left.

Knocking on Max's door, he welcomed Adrie in. She asked him about how much he knew about what kind of magic it would take to dispel her book and the lock on it. He stated he wasn't sure, but that he would help her find out upon their return to Everlund, suspecting that they would have information in their grand library.

### **An Axe Of Oath**

The following day, the group sat around for breakfast as Aegon was brought the Axe by Harthos. He stated to take care of it, and that he would only give it over if Aegon swore that it wouldn't be used for anything but to defeat the Giants. No evil deeds or personal ones. Otherwise he would break the oath. Aegon agreed, thanking him as the group got up, heading to leave, with only Eloithe lingering a little longer.

### **Thy Daughter's Pact**

As Eloithe turned her eyes on Harthos, she brought up the ring, stating her spirit guide had asked to her bring it up in conversation. He seemed to grow older then, almost as if reliving what had happened. He explained his daughter had been a Warlock, like Eloithe, and that the deal she had made had been a surprise to him. Despite not explaining how, he acknowledged that it had got her killed in the end, that she was too young and inexperienced and it had proven her downfall. He stated Eloithe could have the ring, that it would do no good to him or sat up in her room.

As Eloithe was given it by one of his servants, she felt it contained a very powerful spell, one that not even she was able to cast at the time. Holding it close to her chest, she thanked him, and the group went on their way, Eloithe deciding to not tell the others about the ring for the time being.

### **Return To Everlund**

The group eventually returned to the City of Everlund, asking one of the members there to ready the portal for a trip to Mirabar. They stated it would take 24 hours, and the group decided to split off to do their own things. Eloithe heading up to the top of the Moongleam Tower, to practice flying on her broom. Arannis and Ellywick went to get drunk while Adrie and Maximilian headed to The Harpers library.

While in there, they searched for a book regarding Adrie's destiny and/or any magic that could be used for dispelling it. They found barely any, summarizing it's probably so that it wouldn't fall into the hands of anyone it shouldn't. The two did find some books that stated it would be hard to dispel, and that they probably wouldn't be able to do so with the magic they possessed.

### **A Gift**

As Ellywick returned to her room, she found a book laying on her bed. Thinking it was Arannis, she reached for the beautifully written note that read 'A gift for my baby brothers best friend'. The book was beautifully bounded, and spoke of nobility and such. Too drunk to register it, Ellywick tucked it away in her bag, before falling to sleep.

### **Welcome To Mirabar**

As the group arrived the next morning, Arannis and Ellywick both received magical hangover cures from Eloithe, before setting off to the Teleportation Circle that led to Mirabar. Arriving, they met another member of The Harpers, who explained to them the city was a well fortified and powerful force of the North, probably the largest and most wealthy city this high of Faerun.

Heading to a tavern, they grabbed drinks and discussed their plans. As they did, Adrie brought up the fact she hadn't been able to contact Bird, and that her new plan was too destroy the artifacts. As she did, Ellywick and Arannis spoke to her regarding the fact Bird had crashed one of their private conversations. Despite not admitting what they were talking about, the duo told Adrie to keep Bird on a better leash. She seemed saddened by this, and the fact he hadn't deemed to speak to her, but thanked the group for their advice.

### **To Find A Weevil**

Sitting down, the Party turned to Ellywick, asking if she did indeed want to go after The Weevil. She stated she did, as long as it wouldn't cost them too much time. The group agreed, and set off down to Xantharl's Keep. Arriving there, they planned to use Zelda to locate The Weevil, and sent her off after him (in the form of a cat.)

At this point, Balasar received a Message Spell from Darz Helgar. He stated that Amrath had arrived at the village, and was currently battling with the citizen's of Triboar. The situation had reportedly been under control, but they could use the help of someone to settle the issue. Janak, sensing the group still had much to do, offered to go with them. He stated he would deal with it, and prepare there home for when they return. Catching him by the door, Arannis stated he hoped he would be safe, and if he heard anything of Elison, he would let Janak know. Janak warned Arannis not to do anything too dangerous to protect his friends, but Arannis stated that the Wizard knew he wouldn't. With a parting joke, the pair parted ways.

Zelda, finding The Weevil, alerted the Party, who went off to face the battle to come.

### **A Fight Within A Fight**

As Mystic Obscura prepared to attack, the sound of another attack hit their ears. As the town fought off the Orcs, Goblins and the single giant trying to breach the walls, Mystic Obscura managed to fight and defeat the Weevil. However, they also had to fight off Bugbears, seemingly attacking as a splinter cell faction of the outside bombardment, in an attempt to also capture The Weevil, however they were defeated as Ellywick knocked the Weevil unconscious.

### **Justice In Longsaddle**

Taking the Weevil to Longsaddle, he admitted he didn't know why the bugbears were after him. As they gave him over to the people of Longsaddle, they received their 5000 Gold in bounty money and decided to travel up North, assure to the Weevil's death impending by the people for his crimes.

### **A Game Of Kindness**

Arriving in a Tavern, the group decided to take part in one of their usual drinking games. This time, they would have to give compliments instead of gold. Balasar complimented Arannis and his honesty, which prompted Arannis to remark that he wanted a 'Compliment not a paragraph.' Adrie told Ellywick she was beautiful, which prompted Ellywick to respond that she was also beautiful. Eloithe commented that Aegon was the most fuckable, which he responded by kissing her for the first time. Leaving everyone in shock, Arannis and Max faced off in the last round, leading to Max failing and complimenting Balasar, while keeping his eyes on the elf instead.

### **A Bedtime Surprise**

As Ellywick once again returned to bed, she found the book once again left on her pillow, and her bag and room had been moved through by someone incredibly skilled in the art of stealth and slight of hand. Drunk and tired, Ellywick put it in her bag again and went to bed.

### **Last Tiefling Standing**

Travelling on, and recovering from the last nights antics, the group came across a village burnt to the ground by what looked to be members of The Molten River Clan. Aegon was shocked by this, and kept a distance as the group discovered a young tiefling girl. Coaxed out of the pile of dead bodies she had seemingly killed, the Tiefling revealed herself to be called Emmalee Forester. She explained that she had been from Luskan, before being left by her parents and taken in by a loving family in this village. The Orcs had come and killed them all, she had managed to fight a few off, but she wasn't strong enough to stop their leader, Glush. Aegon revealed that to be his uncle, as Emmalee wearily watched him.

Lady Eloithe noticed Emmalee was a Warlock, and stated she would show Emmalee what to do in a fight. She made the group promise to help her, with Arannis giving her the Wand of Wonders as a sign of good faith.

### **A Starlit Ring**

As Arannis sat by the fire as his watch started, with Zelda snuggled in his lap, Lady Eloithe approached. They spoke quietly for a moment, before Eloithe explained about the ring. She stated she wasn't sure what it could do, but that it would probably help them moving forwards. Arannis stated she should take good care of it, and herself, before wishing her a good night.

### **A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Breaks**

As Adrie slept, she found herself shaken to consciousness as Bird grabbed hold of her. He screamed at her that she had to save him. She had to get the artifacts together and save him. Adrie, realizing he was the Prince, screamed and awoke in true terror as she cried and screamed, finally knowing the truth. She explained to Eloithe and the rest of the group about what had happened, and Balasar soothed her as they the group realized Emmalee was missing.

Heading out, the group found her heading for the Orc Camp, stopping her as she eventually confessed her Warlock pact was with the Devil of Devils... Asmodeus. Emmalee was upset by this, but begged the group to help her anyway. Lady Eloithe stated they would.

### **Up To The Mines**

As the group arrived in the Mines the Orcs had called their own; they fought with Glush and his top members of his army as they pressed forward, Aegon faced off with Glush one on one, using his Giant killing axe. However, because Aegon had made an Oath not to use the axe for revenge, it stopped working as Glush, sensing his defeat, activated some kind of necrotic device gifted to him by Agronak. It's blast wounded almost the entire party, and killed Emmalee and himself. However, the effects reversed somewhat as Balasar's staff sucked in the necrotic energy instead, and only Emmalee was fatally injured on the side of good, dying where she landed.

Rushing over, Maximilian used Revivify to bring her back to life. She awoke crying and screaming, admitting to Arannis that Asmodeous was going to make her into a devil. Arannis stated she could beat him, before Emmalee yelled that he knew nothing about pacts, which Arannis replied he knew more then she could know (referring to Strahd.)

### **The Darkness Arrives**

Before anything more could be said, the lights vanished, with only Eloithe able to see as a woman appeared out of nowhere, travelling through the dark with immense speed as she opened Ellywick's bag, and took the book from it. And then she was gone, Eloithe explaining what had happened as Arannis felt inside his component pouch... his dragon scale was gone and there was a book in it's place. A note was left with the book as Ellywick explained she'd been too drunk to understand. The note stated that this book was for them, and that Arannis was more important then he knew, if he could get past his ego and realize it wasn't all about him. Arannis, recognizing the handwriting, attempted to bolt from the room.

### **The Cracks Begin To Show**

Running forward, Arannis managed to dodge Max's spell to hold him in place, but was distracted as Emmalee grabbed his foot, tripping him as he ran past her. Hitting the ground, Ellywick dived on his back and held him in place, as did Emmalee. Eloithe took the book from him, as Arannis warned them to let him go, like a wild animal trying to flee. He threatened Ellywick in rage, but broke down as Max confronted him. He stated she had taken everything from him, and truly now everything had gone (meaning the dragon scale.) Max yelled at Ellywick to release him, and they did as Arannis ran from the room and out into the woods.

### **The Truth**

As Eloithe read the book, she learnt that her family had once been part of another family. She learnt that she was, in fact, a descendant of Strahd, and that one of her great, great, great, great, great, great, x10, grandfathers had been his brother.

### **Together Or Not At All**

As Arannis returned from the woods, he entered the camp and asked for everyone's attention. He spoke about his sister, Elora, and what she had done to him, how she had killed the love of his life. He said he had ran then and he had ran now, but his real family had stopped him. He apologised and stated it wasn't all about him, it was about all of them. Together. He said they'd beat all the threat coming, and they'd do it together, because that's what families do.

### **Family Matters**

As Arannis sat back with the group, Eloithe explained what she had read in the book. Spiking Arannis and Ellywick's attention, Arannis explained to Eloithe that Zarovich was the last name of Lord Strahd, the Vampire Lord who ruled over Ravenloft. Arannis stated that he wasn't exactly good, loosing his lips regarding the fact Ada was to be his air. Max piped in, accidentally letting the truth about the contract out of his lips, as Arannis admitted to a shocked group that he had signed the deal with Strahd, but it had seemingly faded, passing a look at Ellywick but not saying anything. As the group tried to wrap their heads around this, Ellywick went off for a walk to clear her head.

### **To Luskan**

Travelling to Luskan, Aegon caught up with Max and discussed one evening the magic regarding Oath's. Aegon was worried he'd broke his Greataxe immediately by breaking the oath he had made with Lord Harthos. Max stated he shouldn't worry, and that the magic should fix itself in the Greataxe in time, and it would work as meant to, as long as Aegon used it for the right reasons.

Continuing on, Aegon carried Adrie on his shoulders as she refused to sleep, due to being afraid of seeing Bird again. He told her he would look after her, and that if Bird did anything bad, they'd deal with it together. She admitted her worries to him, and he told her that they wouldn't let anything bad happen to her. With this thought in her mind, that night Adrie managed to finally sleep, peacefully.

Arriving near Luskan, Emmalee stressed that she left the town on bad terms, and that she wished to not enter the city. Ellywick agreed to look after her, and stated they would camp North of town. She asked the group the exact location which they were going to travel after, just so she had it in her head, and Max explained the direction. Before splitting off, Eloithe summed up all the issues they still had to face, with Max remarking that The Black Lodge were the least of their worries for the time being.

Entering Luskan, the remaining members of the group saw that there had been a battle with what looked to be Giant Ships made of ice, currently burning in the sea. They were not melting like normal ice ships, with Eloithe stating magic was probably holding them together.

### **Vincente's Shoppe of Beauteous Wonders**

Searching for diamonds to buy, for the spell Revivify, the group found a shop called Vicente's Shoppe Of Beauteous Wonders. Entering, they were met by Vincente himself, a short, plump man who greeted them with charm. As Eloithe complained about the lack of effort gone into the Diamond cut, even though she was lying, the man walked through the various cuts with Max. When offering the prize, Arannis offered a haggle, but was cut off stating he wasn't good looking enough, and that he preferred 'The Green One.' to the shock of Aegon, who was incredibly freaked out, and Arannis, who believed everyone to fancy him. Max eventually made a deal, while Arannis and Eloithe raced to leave the store, with Aegon left with the invitation of dinner and more should he return.

As part of the trade, they agreed to deliver some items to one of the customers of Vicente's up north, Thwip Ironbottom, recognizing his name as The Harper agent who they knew could be trusted. Vincente offered to deliver the items this evening to a local tavern, and the group made plans to meet his adviser, another Half Orc, there.

### **Storytime**

Sat in the Tavern, awaiting drinks. Eloithe decided to contact Elly and Emmalee, by having Zelda let her speak through her. Ellywick seemed shocked by this, but confirmed they were ok. She asked Eloithe if she could always see through Zelda's eyes, to which Eloithe remarked it was only when she wanted to.

Seeing they were safe, Eloithe complained about the business mans shop and his crappy diamonds. Arannis yelled around the tavern asking whether anyone found him attractive, to which no one responded. Sitting down, Max laughed that this must be a first, due to what happened in Triboar with the old couple. As Arannis explained to a in disbelieve Aegon, the group began to laugh as the Half Orc entered the tavern, dropping off the goods. Max reminded the Orc that Aegon liked fillet steak, to Aegon's horror as Arannis asked the Half Orc whether he thought he was attractive. The Half Orc laughed, before stating yes, he liked feminine men, before leaving. Arannis glared into his drink as Eloithe tried to make him feel better, remarking he hated the North.

### **The Orcs Are Having A Picnic**

Leaving Luskan, the group met up with Emmalee and Elly, along with Zelda, and headed up North on their journey to Brym Shander. Along the way, they spotted a group of footprints, dragging smaller footprints covered in blood. Following the tracks, Arannis stated to Aegon that he knew who this could be, and Aegon nodded gravely. Correct in their guessing, the group found a large party of The Molten River Clan who had kidnapped many women. One of the Orcs yelled to get to them to the mines, but Mystic Obscura made short work of the group.

Approaching the women, one of them confirmed that the Orcs were preparing sacrifices to their Demon Lord in order to grant them the strength to defeat an evil Devil; Ros'Gannus, that was threatening them. At the mention of the devils name, Max walked away from the group.

On the road, Adrie approached Balasar to speak about their relationship. Adrie stated Balasar was too focused on Parthinia, and that she had her own problems. Balasar stated that he understood she didn't want to put her problems on him, but that Parthinia hurt his family and he needs to protect Adrie. Frustrated he didn't understand what was happening, Adrie stated they needed to take a break, and walked away.

Getting the women to safety, the group agreed to head up to see Thwip, and drop off his goods and inform him of what has been happening. Maximilian stated he wasn't going, and instead headed off to a nearby temple to prey, leaving the group worrying about him.

### **Deceived In Prayer**

As Max prayed, Ellywick approached and asked if he was ok. Max admitted he just wished to be left alone, and Ellywick stated that everyone else has revealed their secrets, what were his? Max seemed incredibly upset, and despite constant prodding, wouldn't reveal the truth. Elly was about to leave, when Max handed her the artifact Adrie had given him to look after. He asked her to return it to Adrie, and she nodded, leaving.

### **A Gift From A Goddess**

As Max prayed within the temple, one of the lower level clerics came to him. After small chit chat, she informed him that the goddess Waukeen had sent her a message. It was for him, that their was a gift waiting east of Ironslagg, forged by the Goddess and her lovers, Gond and The Goddess of the Winds. Max thanked her for her help, before Arannis appeared, asking for him to come back, as he knew he hadn't slept in the tavern.

### **Not The Elf You're Looking For**

Heading out, Max followed Arannis as they went down the paths. Arannis informed Max they'd found information they needed regarding one of their several missions, and they were heading to the mines of Hundelstone to find them. As Max continued, a voice came to him, warning him that the thing he followed wasn't Arannis. The voice stated it wasn't her brother, and to not be as stupid as he had been. Max, realizing the truth, confronted the doppelganger, and after a brief skirmish, fled form the scene as Elora used a power to hold the doppelganger back.

### **A Small Complication**

Max arrived then, explaining hurriedly that Arannis had been taken, and upon the group explaining that Elly had gone with him, they deduced she must have been an impostor as well. Unsure as when she was taken, Max explains that he gave Elly the artifact to give back to Adrie, leaving Adrie devastated as she realized the item was in the possession of one of their various enemies. Max then led the group to the mines.

### **Into The Mines**

Entering the mines, the group were ambushed as they attempted to break through a huge metal door. After a prolonged and awkward fight with two hidden archers, they managed to force open the door and entered into another, bigger chamber.

### **WHERE IS ARANNIS?!?!?!**

As Aegon charged into the room, screaming "WHERE IS ARANNIS." A fight broke out, with Arannis eventually joining the fray. The doppelganger proved deadly, temporarily blinding Max and almost killing Emmalee. However, thanks to Adrie making Issik drop their swords, the group defeated the doppelganger, and were relieved to find Arannis alive. Carrying a unconcious Emmalee into the bed chamber, Arannis set her down as the group looked through paperwork. Aegon went to go into the door nearby, which activated a trap that almost crushed him.

Stepping through the door, Arannis found a small looking Elly like figurine. Realizing it was magic, Adrie managed to dispel the magic, and revealed a very unconscious Ellywick. As they read through the paperwork, Eloithe discovered that Issik was a member of the Black Lodge. They had made a couple of deals, one with their employer in Waterdeep, and another with the Thieves Guild in Neverwinter, for Ellywick. They summarized Issik and Davon Skinner had been arguing over the better deal, but didn't gleam any more information.

As they planned to leave, Max used one of Aegon's javelins to pin Issik up to the wall, with a note that read "Do not follow us again. MO.", shocking the group and disgusting Eloithe. Max stated it would send a clear message; for them not to follow, much to the other's apprehension.

### **A Half Orc's Concern**

As the group left the mines, Aegon pulled Max aside, worried about his mental state after the occurrence in the mines. Max shrugged it off, but kept quiet as Aegon brought up what he told him in the Abyss, regarding the devil he had made a deal with. Max told Aegon he would be fine, and just needed to keep going.

### **Max Admits His Truth**

As Arannis and Max sit together, Max checking up on him, Arannis admits what his sister had said to him in the mines. He challenged Max to tell him what was eating away at him, and after some persuasion, Max relented, informing Arannis that his sister had fallen ill one day, and was very unwell upon the point of death. Attempting to find a way, Max made a pact with Ros'Gannus. Rose brought his sister back from death and to full health, but stole Max's soul as part of the deal. However, Max's sister fell asleep and had never awoken, Max explaining that since then, he headed out to try and find a cure. Arannis apologised to Max for what had happened, but questioned whether pinning up the Black Lodge member was more Rose then Max. Max stated the devil hadn't took him yet, before stating he was off to bed. Arannis passed up the opportunity to hit up someone in the bar, instead heading to sleep along with Max.

### **Up In The Clouds**

As the group carried on, they spotted a floating castle in the sky, heading south. Concerned that the Cloud Giants might be off to attack the town, Eloithe suggested they tell the Harper within Bryn Shander, the one Thwip informed them off, and hopefully get the word out.

### **Welcome To Bryn Shander**

Arriving at the gate, Arannis failed to make conversation with the Deputy Sheriff before allowing the others to explain they were here to see Markam Southwell. She pointed them to the Town Hall, where she stated that he was there, the Sheriff. Heading to a local tavern, they encountered a knight who stared at them until; to the annoyance of the group, Arannis yelled hello to see what he wanted. The knight was a brash with them, causing Arannis to call him an asshole as Eloithe and Max tried to smooth things over. With that, the group headed out to find the sheriff.

### **A Loss Long Ago**

On the way, Balasar questioned whether they'd be arrested for telling the Sheriff his sister died... almost a year ago. The group put this thought to the back of their mind, entering the Grand Hall and also hearing the name Duvesa Shane floated around. The group met with Markam, who sorrowfully thanked them for their help in delivering the news. As he spoke; battle sirens signaled outside, alerting the group to an incoming Giant Attack. Markam begged them to help, and Mystic Obscura answered the call.

### **Battle For The City**

As the group arrived, they found multiple Giants assailing the walls, aided by giant wolves. The group fought and killed them quickly, helping the city of Bryn Shander defend it's walls once more.

### **A Thanks From The Gauntlet**

As the group returned to the inn, they were met by the Knight; Ser Baric Nylef, who had been staring at them the day before. He complimented them on their skill, and bought them all a drink. As he spoke, he mentioned that he was a member of The Order of The Gauntlet, and had decided to trust them with some information. He let them know that he was hunting The Weevil, who had escaped his execution and had now began working for Parthinia Quell. This caused the departure of both Balasar and Ellywick, both of whom headed upstairs to their separate beds, Adrie following Balasar as he departed.

Baric explained that there was a reckless but nevertheless good Adventuring Party back in Waterdeep, The Grey Force, who had a member in their party that was a Frost Giant. They might be able to gleam some information from him, as to what the Giants are all looking for. With that, he bid them goodnight, as Max and Eloithe headed for the Triage, while Arannis and Aegon headed out into the night to find something for Arannis.

### **Triage Trivia**

As Maximilian and Eloithe went off to heal, many hours later, they met with a man named, Seerac Symber, who explained that he knew they were The Harpers. He stated he usually had a hide out for them, but it had been destroyed in the attack. He stated that he could have it ready for them again, should they return. As they carried on working into the night, the man explained he was son of Artis Symber, a very old man who still looked in his 30's. The Giants were searching for him, possibly because of the ring that he acquired. With that, Eloithe and Max thanked him, before heading back to the tavern.

### **Sometime Over Breakfast**

As the group came down to breakfast, all but Balasar, they spoke about what had happened to them the previous nights. Arannis spoke quietly to Ellywick, stating he'd never hurt her and apologizing for what happened before she'd got kidnapped, but she merely just looked sad and nodded slightly. Adrie explained Bird's threat and how they needed to find an artifacts in six months. Aegon gave Eloithe the candy, but kept their flirting quiet from the other booth, before Eloithe and Max explained what had happened with Serrac Symber and the information about his father; the one's the giants were looking for, Artis Symber.

### **Attack The Block**

As Balasar arrived, the doors exploded to the tavern as robotic creatures climbed through. The metallic leader, who sounded very much like Zalkin, the Zhentarim Mercenary who had been killed by Aegon and Maximilian. He ordered the attack, and the group fought viciously with Ellywick landing the killing blow, mocking the leader of the Seven Snakes by stating "Who are you again?" As they tried to recover, Maximilian felt a drop of blood hit his forehead, as crimson liquid leaked from the floor above.

### **Your Move**

Running upstairs, they found their rooms ransacked, along with Emmalee's body pinned to the wall in the same way Max had pinned Issik to the wall the week before. The note attached to her stated "Your Move."

### **Race To The Temple**

Seeing the body pinned their, Adrie and Ellywick ran towards the temple within the town, attempting to get help as Aegon moved to remove the body from the wall. As Adrie and Ellywick entered the temple, they were met by the acoloytes and clerics who stated it would depend on how long the girl had been dead, as to whether could bring her back or not. As the group ran towards the temple, Arannis noted that the spell used had been one that had killed her instantly (probably Power Word Kill) and that she had been dead for over ten hours. Arriving at the temple, the group were informed that their clerics wouldn't be able to resurrect her, but perhaps they knew someone who could. Out in the woods lived a woman... a drow woman who had been shunned by her own people for being one of the good members of her species.

Despite some of the group not wanting to trust a drow, they decided they had nho better option, and set off to save Emmalee's life by finding the woman.

### **No More Secrets**

As the group traveled on the first night, they made camp near the beautiful if not terrifically scary mountains. Ellywick asked the group to have no more secrets, saying that it was becoming too dangerous to reveal the truth. Adrie explained about the timeline that Bird gave her to Balasar, while Arannis admitted he had been shown a vision of Lord Strahd by the Raven Queen, and that he felt the groups destinies were entwined with the vampire lords. As they all made for bed that night, Arannis found a package on his desk, with a little black plush dragon with ruby eyes and a note that stated "You didn't think I'd forget, did you." In Ellywick's handwriting. Arannis, tearful, went to sleep.

### **A Drow By Any Other Name**

Arriving at their specified location, they found themselves in a beautiful lush forest that had animals unafraid of them and a warm temperature unlike their surroundings. Despite this, they had to wait until night. As Ellywick sat on watch, she noticed a figure in the brush watching her. Moving quickly, she awoke everyone as Eloithe and Max stepped forward. Z'resthra Illyrr revealed herself to be the one they had been looking for, and she quickly proved how kind and nice she was, and seemed willing and happy to help, despite Adrie and Arannis' clear displeasure.

### **The Price Of Life**

Heading back to Bryn Shander, Z'resthra made herself at home with them, proving as a good watch and talking a lot with those who would. She kept the distance from both elves, aware of their dislike and hatred for her kind. As the group got back to the temple, she informed them that the ritual would need to be done in the dark and require x1 diamond with a cost of 500 Gold Pieces. Heading off to find one, Adrie and Ellywick found themselves in an old, yet very expensive looking jewelry shop. The shopkeeper, from Waterdeep himself, recognized them and informed them that Lady Ada Mistborn was looking for them, and had placed a bounty of their heads. Not to capture, just inform her of their whereabouts. He raised the price of the diamond to 5000 Gold Pieces, for not only their diamond but for his keeping quiet of their whereabouts. Seeing no other choice, Ellywick gave him 6000 Gold Pieces, an extra bargain to keep him sweet, and took the diamond back.

### **A Deal In The Dark**

As the diamond was brought to them, Z'resthra began performing the ritual as the candles shone bright in the dark. Until they all went out, with the Drow yelling "No... I don't want to... no..." before her skin began to decay and her eyes bled. Speaking from within her, Asmodeus spoke from out of her, offering the group a deal. He would return Emmalee to them, alive and well, and they would have to help him at some point in the future. He would also gift them knowledge about The Black Lodge and The Hollowed Company, apparently what Ada, Agronak and Parthinia were now calling themselves. When everyone agreed but Eloithe, Asmodeus also stated he'd release Emmalee from her pact if she agreed. Knowing it was the right, yet wrong thing to do, Eloithe agreed to the terms and Asmodeus gave them valuable information. There were 4 members left of The Black Lodge. Two hid in Luskan, one, Professor Impossible, lived here in Bryn Shander. He also revealed he could not see where Davon Skinner was at the moment, but that soon he would find him. Arannis told him to go to tell, to which he replied that Strahd had not forgotten that the elf got out of his contract, and he was not happy. With that, he left, reviving Emmalee and releasing her from her pact. Max rushed forward and healed the dying Z'resthra, bringing her also back from the brink.

### **And Now You Fall**

As Eloithe, Adrie and Ellywick slept, an angel arrived, visiting Eloithe. All of them awoke, the angel told Eloithe she had failed her mission and that the heavens were disappointed in her. She admitted she was here originally to kill her, but still sensed hope and light in her. However, having made the deal, meant she could no longer be blessed with their light. Reaching out, the angel touched Eloithe's forehead, and took her radiance from the Aasimar, stating "Aasimar... you are fallen." With that she was gone, as Eloithe cried Elly and Adrie hugged her from both sides, assuring her it would be ok, and that they would fix it and help her.

### **The Breakfast Club**

As the party sat at breakfast the next day, Eloithe admitted that she had fallen. As Aegon sat in quiet contemplation, the group discussed whether the Greater Good was the True Good, but despite everything, they couldn't agree on what Eloithe should do next. She stated if it came down to a choice like that again, she wouldn't be able to accept that deal a second time. The group seemed conflicted by this, but decided to stop discussing it as Emmalee entered the room. Her eye had returned to normal, and she was no longer a warlock. Smiling at them, the group discussed what had happened, and that they would contact Janak regarding her safe retrieval and move to Summervale Farm, where she would be safe. With that, they asked Emmalee to stay behind as they headed for the shop, where Professor Impossible lurked.

### **May We Blow Up Your Shop?**

As Mystic Obscura arrived at the shop, they got off to a rough start with the shopkeeper who decided to argue with them after Max suggested she should leave. Between Max's persuasion and Arannis giving her a hundred platinum, they were let through and headed into the chamber, and to Arannis' annoyance saw that their craftsmanship was definitely not worth a hundred platinum.

### **Professor Impossible**

As they entered the downstairs chamber, they were met with a fearsome array of traps and clockwork robots that tore and dug into them. Fighting them off, they found themselves in a strange kind of workshop. And eventually discovered Professor Impossible. Without a word, a fight kicked off with the gnome wearing a huge mechanical suit made from gears and clockwork.

### **Do Not Go Gentle Into That Goodnight**

The fight itself went on for a while, with multiple spells and blows being traded. As the battle raged on, Eloithe used her ring to blast out an incredibly powerful spell, Aegon almost dropped for the first time in a very long time and Adrie found herself in the path of a scalding burning heat, that seared her skin and sent her in shock, killing her. Seeing Adrie fall, Mystic Obscura fought on even harder and managed to kill Professor Impossible, even as Balasar almost faced the same fate. As Balasar cradled Adrie, tears streaking down his face, Max cast revivify and while at first nothing happened, after a moment, Adrie coughed back to life. Weakened, but alive. The dragonborn and the wood elf confessed their love for each other, as they cradled on the floor of the destroyed and broken workshop.

### **The Face Of Death**

However, before Adrie was revived, she found herself in a que of people. All different shapes and kinds, some featureless and some extremely detailed. As another woman explained to Adrie she had died, she watched as some of people in the line were claimed by angels, while others were dragged to hell. Adrie on the other hand, entered a large hall where a man sat on his throne, for judgement. This was the god of death, who told Adrie that she had not been claimed, and that he was unsure as for what to do with her. Before he could say anymore, Adrie was claimed by an angel, who swooped down and took her to heaven.

### **Claimed**

As Adrie arrived at heaven, she met with her god; Sehanine Moonbow, who disclosed to her that they hadn't much time. She told Adrie that Strahd was merely a puppet, and that The Dark Forces had created multiple planes of Dread, with multiple Dark Lords. She also informed her, that man you meet at the Amber Tower will be a fake. Before Adrie could ask anymore, she was whisked back into the life of the living.

### **The Discussion**

As Adrie prayed away and Balasar watched nearby, the rest of the group discussed what to do. Aegon wanted to kill them all, Arannis seconding that motion. But Ellywick and Maximilian dissuaded them, stating they needed to keep a clear head for the battles to come and that they needed to decide what to do next. They agreed to reconvene in the morning, to discuss the fates of The Black Lodge, and Emmalee's fate with them.

### **By The Alter**

As Adrie prayed, Balasar came down next to her. They spoke softly as they held each other, Adrie crying slightly as Balasar stated he loved her and that he wouldn't let anything else happen to her. They held each other near the alter, as the gods looked down upon them.

### **Revenge Is A Dish Best Served With Blood...**

As Aegon lay in bed, he turned to Arannis and asked if he was awake. As Arannis confirmed, Aegon switched to Elven as Max grumbled about being awoken. Aegon asked Arannis to keep him in line, should they run into The Black Lodge, and not let his emotions get in the way. Arannis was silent for a moment, before he told Aegon that he wasn't the right person to ask him to hold back, as Arannis wanted nothing more then for Aegon to kill them all. Max complained again about them speaking, with Arannis stating in common that he hated clerics, before wishing Aegon a goodnight.

### **What Was It Like For You?**

As Eloithe slept, Adrie awoke Ellywick and asked her what her death was like. With Elly recounting her meeting with Strahd, Adrie explained what had happened to her. Elly stated that it was probably nothing for Adrie to worry about, but Adrie's fears were un rested as she quietly drifted to sleep.

### **Something Random This Way Comes...**

The following morning, the group agreed to leave Emmalee with Thwip Ironbottom and send Janak a message to come and pick her up. Spurred on, Max decided to contact Random for information regarding the two remaining members of the Black Lodge; Lusk and Valeria. Random was happy to help, in exchange for Mystic Obscura owing them something. As Max tried to listen, with Elly asking if he asked about her and Arannis asking if he was still an asshole, Max learned that Valeria was a powerful wizard and Lusk was the brother of Madame Rovny, the Red Dragon who owns the Naughty Gnome in Waterdeep. As the group sat in shock, realizing that Lusk could very well be a Red Dragon, they felt a little more conflicted until Random asked to take Ellywick on a date, leaving her flustered as Arannis raged.

Contacting Janak to pick up Emmalee, Janak expressed that it would be good to have some company, as he's stuck with Darz who only talks about his and Ellywick's dalliances. Max, flustered, stopped Janak before he could go into detail, as Max decided not to relay that information.

### **Magic And Dragons**

Arriving at Thwip Ironbottom's house, the group asked him to look after Emmalee until Janak arrived to collect her, to which the gnome happily agreed, stating she had small hands which could help him with his devices, much to Emmalee's shock. As Max stated what they were facing from The Black Lodge, he admitted that he was worried about what they were too face, asking the Gnome if he had anything 'Magic or Dragons.' As the group stood in shock at the sentence Max had just stated, causing Arannis to laugh at him for his poor use of common, Max complained that this was why they didn't let him speak, with Arannis laughing even harder as the group departed.

### **Return To Luskan**

As they traveled back, they discussed where exactly they should go, but Max using his divination skills couldn't even find them bar a general area. The group, arriving at Luskan, headed to the Arcane Brotherhood in search of answers. After Arannis managed to get the group in, they followed a female member of the high council, and entered in her office.

### **Murder Up High**

As she asked why she should help them locate the Black Lodge, she requested for any information she gave them; such as the fact they had been recruiting people from Luskan and had headed back out to train them, in return for Balasar's staff. As Balasar stopped; hesitating to give her his most prized possession, Adrie came over and asked him to do it for her, so they could get revenge on The Black Lodge for what they did. Balasar, knowing he could do it for Adrie, walked over to the woman, whispered an incantation, and killed her dead.

### **WHAT DID YOU DO?!?!**

As Balasar stood over the dead woman's body, the group stared in shock at his actions. As Arannis yelled at him, causing a verbal confrontation between the pair, Max attempted to revive the woman, to no success. As the group tried to figure out what was going on, with Aegon and Ellywick demanding he lay down the staff, and Adrie stepped away from her love, Max told the group they needed to leave now, or they'd end up dealing with the entirety of The Arcane Brotherhood. With that, the group fled from the tower, with Arannis lying to the guard that everything was fine, the elf stating he knew they'd known he was lying.

As they got far enough away, under Adrie's magical invisible dome, they stopped with Aegon, Arannis and Elly confronting Balasar to drop the staff. Max stepped between them, not wanting violence as Adrie begged the group to let her speak to Balasar alone. Arannis refused, stating that he loved her and wasn't leaving her alone with Balasar. The group did agree to stand back, as Adrie asked Balasar to let the staff be destroyed. Managing to pull from it's magical grasp, Balasar agreed and Aegon destroyed the staff, which released a burst of necrotic energy injuring a lot of the group, but nothing they couldn't recover from. After checking there surroundings, the group headed to bed, taking watches.

### **The Devil On Your Shoulder**

As Balasar couldn't sleep, he got up and headed to the nearby trees to walk, thinking about what he'd done to that woman. Hearing a voice, he was greeted by a young looking man, who smiled and told him it was good to be free of that staff. While not truly understanding what was happening, the man appeared to hint he was in fact Vibaem. He told Balasar not to worry, and that the woman he killed probably wasn't good anyway. As Balasar tried to talk back, he was gone, left to wonder alone what he had now tied to himself.

### **Welcome To The Black Lodge**

As the group headed out to look for The Black Lodge, avoiding The Arcane Brotherhood as they went, they found tracks that led across the icy lands and into the tundra. Heading out, they found Lusk, Valeria, a Dragonborn warrior and a group of would be members waiting for them. It was a trap. As the fight broke out, Aegon fought wildly with the would be members with Max, as Arannis and Eloithe faced off with the wizard, and Adrie and Ellywick went after Lusk. Balasar fought the Dragonborn, but was ultimately defeated as Adrie and Ellywick found their attacks barely harming Lusk. Arannis managed to stop Valeria killing Eloithe, counterspelling her necromantic energy. He wasn't fast enough, however, as Eloithe lashed out at Valeria with an eldritch blast, hurting the wizard but also giving her enough opportunity to land a deadly blow, killing Lady Eloithe instantly.

### **Goodbye Angel**

As Arannis stood in shock at his failure, Aegon exploded with rage and killed the Dragonborn, as Ellywick directed her attacks on the Wizard, killing her as well. Lusk merely laughed as Adrie bombarded him with attacks, even asking if they "Really want to do this?" Max restrained a tearful enraged Aegon with magic after healing Balasar as Arannis, Aegon and Max watched mist appear and sweep Eloithe away, leaving the elf in-particular with an instant sense of dread. As Lusk stepped forward, killing Adrie's magical wolves and standing before them all, he laughed, before beginning to speak.

### **Another Day, Another Deal**

He gave the group a deal. Either he kills them all, or he tells them where Davon Skinner is and they can kill him instead. Questioning why, Lusk admitted Davon was a terrible leader who deserved to die. He stated he would leave this place, and travel to a new land, and start a new Black Order. Despite not liking the circumstances, the group agreed with Aegon being forced too despite being broken inside. He told them that Davon was located in Fireshear, currently torturing an airship captain and destroying their weapons. As they walked away, Arannis remarked that Valeria fought well, but not well enough, before leaving to the sound of Lusk laughing as he transformed into his true form.

### **On** **Broken Wings**

As the group arrived upset and tired in Fireshear, they were interrupted by a halfing with a patchwork like face, as if she'd been stitched up like a doll. She told them her name was Isolde, from the party The Lost Tides. She stated that Eloithe was in Barovia, and that she could get them there. She also mentioned that Lord Strahd was looking for Arannis anyway. As the group got up to go, following the halfing out, she lead them to a crossroads and stated the mist would come. As it did, she walked away, stating she was never going back, but Caidove was waiting for their arrival. As the mist swarmed them, Arannis leaned into Max and whispered "Welcome To Hell."

### **Enter The Doves**

As the group arrived in Barovia, Arannis asked if Ellywick was ok, to which she casually responded that they were always meant to end up here anyway. Arannis remained quiet while the group discussed camping, fearing returning to this place. As Aegon stayed quiet, Adrie worried regarding her recent death and Balasar's recent possesion, while creating the invisible barrier for them to sleep under.

The night moved on, with Max and Arannis sitting on watch as Caidove arrived. She stated that Isolde had told her they'd come, and was seemingly impressed by the magic Adrie had done for her invisible barrier, that prevented her from seeing them. After introducing her to Aegon and Balasar, who were next on watch, the group retired until morning.

As Caidove, Ellywick and Adrie met, the group questioned where to go next. Caidove reported that the Abbot within the Abbey at the village of Krezk. Caidove explained that it was a walled off area, but that she'd heard rumours Strahd had taken Eloithe's body there, to be resurrected. Aegon, seemingly ready to find his beloved, stated that he thought this was a trap, with Arannis stating that of course it was a trap, with Ellywick adding they needed to find Eloithe... dead or alive.

### **You Shall Not Pass**

Reaching the town of Krezk, Caidove attempted to get in, with the aid of Max, but the walled off city, which feared Strahd immensely was apprehensive. Upon summoning the town leader, when the guards felt sorry for the group, the man still refused their entrance, pointing them towards the Abbey, which they could reach around the town walls. Thanking him for his kindess, the group departed and headed up to the abbey.

### **Welcome To The Abbey**

Arriving at the Abbey of St Markovia, they were welcomed by a strange contraption of a man, who had multiple different parts of animals as his skin and features. As Caidove got them admittance, Arannis asked what kind of species they were, much to Caidove's displeasure. As the man explained that his family, The Belviews, were cursed to be Mongrelfolk, he came to the Abbot who in turn stops them from turning into crazed monsters, by "helping" them.

As the group entered, Ellywick noted how dark and creepy the place was, with screams echoing down the halls and doors clanging (as if this was in fact a sanitarium.) The group arrived in a dining hall, where the Mongrelfolk brought them food. Caidove admitted that she hated the Abbot, as he was the one who had hurt Isolde and disformed her, much to the groups shock.

As Max thought, he sent a message to Eloithe, in an attempt to reach her. They found her alive, but unconscious; allowing Aegon to relax a little, with all that was needed now was to reach her. As the Abbot entered, he admitted that he helped the people hear, and revealed he had currently been working on a bride for Strahd. The group was shocked, with Arannis snarling at Caidove as to where she had brought them. The Abbot invited the bride down, a woman with patchwork skin. It was revealed that the Abbot had taken skin from many different people; including Isolde, for the patchwork woman. He commented on Ellywick's eyes, with Arannis warning him away from her.

As The Abbot went on, Max questioned why he thought he was right, to which The Abbot revealed himself to be an angel. However, noting the blood that was leaking from his ear, Arannis commented that it must be hard to hold that form, in such a dark place. And with that, a fight exploded as The Abbot revealed himself to be a fallen angel.

### **To Hell With You**

As the fight started, Aegon, Adrie and Ellywick rushed The Abbot while Arannis and Caidove dealt damage from afar. Max and Balasar briefly fought the Golem, as Ellywick slid under the table to fight her too. Arannis, weaving necromantic energy, killed The Abbot eventually as he attacked Aegon, the elf saying to the fallen angel that "Tell Asmodeus we'll see him soon." before sending him back to hell. Aegon and Ellywick eventually managed to defeat the golem, who went down in rage and anger. As the fight was over, Caidove remembered The Abbot had mentioned someone else being trapped here, below.

### **Locked Down Below**

As the group went down, they found a woman by the name of Esmerelda tied up within the wine cellar. She thanked them for releasing her, with Caidove stating that she had heard of her, both of them being Monster Hunters in the past. Esmerelda was also trying to find a way to defeat Strahd, but ended up being captured by The Abbot. Asking for her help, with Caidove stating that she might no where the famous vampire hunter Rudolph Van Richton was, Esmerelda agreed, suggesting there was a lot of water under the bridge with Rudolph. With that, Esmerelda pocketed some bottles of wine, before leaving with Mystic Obscura and Caidove.

### **Why Do The Gods Laugh**

As the group made camp that night, Aegon pulled Maximilian aside. He spoke about how he was angry with the gods, and how he didn't believe they helped anyone. He spoke about watching Eloithe die and why he was so quiet, because he believed all hope was lost. Max understood, stating that he knew why that was, and that he couldn't and wouldn't make Aegon believed, but that he'd believe for him instead. Aegon thanked Max, before Adrie called Max over to pray with her.

### **Wine And Cards**

As Esmerelda sat, she admitted she and Rudolph use to work together, until his arrogance and her recklessness forced them apart, but they never really fought too bad. As she pulled out a bottle of wine, she found a spell scroll for a Heroes Feast spell instead. As Ellywick took the scroll, unable to read it, they decided to wait for Max and Adrie to finish praying. Pouring out another bottle of wine for Elly, Arannis, Balasar and Caidove, Esmerelda explained that maybe they should use some of The Tarroka Deck, a deck her people use to tell the future.

Caidove was bitter about this, after The Lost Tide's reading, which led to their eventual fall. But Adrie and Max showed up, sitting down as they were there for the reading. Esmerelda pulled out 3 cards, one showing Strahd would be in the chapel, another showing they could find the sun blade (a vampire killing weapon) and one more that represented Rudolph. As Esmerelda became excited at the prospect of killing Strahd, Arannis and Ellywick slipped away.

### **Rudolph The Red Nosed Vampire Hunter**

As the group arrived in Vallaki, they entered an inn where Esmerelda spotted and noted who Rudolph was. As the group called him over, Rudolph spotted Esmerelda, and was quick to trust Mystic Obscura with her presence. Leading them to his room, he admitted that he knew where the Sun Blade was, and that they could reach there the following day, but shouldn't travel at night, due to vampires being even more prominent, even if the sun doesn't shine bright here.

In conversation, Arannis admitted to being here before, which put Caidove on edge, leading to the pair glaring at each other as Caidove acted as if she trusted Arannis less for the fact. The following day, the group headed out, down to the clearing the Sun blade was potentially meant to be in.

### **The Sun Blade**

As the group arrived there, Rudolph stated no magic or spells could be cast near it or on it, or the magic would break. As they found the clearing, it was some kind of grave that had been recently re-dug, according to both Max and Aegon. As Aegon dug down, they found the sun blade, with Rudolph holding the weapon and stating he would use it on Strahd, the moment he could. With that, the group began the long road to Strahd's manor, with Mystic Obscura stating that this truly was For Eloithe.

### **To Court Death**

Arriving upon the manor, they found it cold and empty. Arannis directed them which ways not to go, while Rudolph prepared the Sunblade and Aegon readied himself. Walking slowly towards the area clearly resembling the chapel; where they knew Strahd would be, they walked together, in solidarity against the darkness.

Arriving in the chapel, Strahd did not appear at first, the group shifting around the room, Ellywick grew impatient and yelled "OI DICK WAD!", as a circle of bats swooped down from high above. Strahd appeared, intrigued yet calm that someone would call someone him such a name. With that, he turned to face Aegon, who asked where Eloithe was. Strahd replied in kind as Caidove ripped apart Rudolph, killing him as well as revealing herself a traitor.

### **True Love's Blade**

The group fought, with Strahd fighting viciously. He charmed Arannis into fighting with himself and Caidove, causing Arannis to injure both Adrie and Balasar. Caidove pinned Aegon, a vicious fight as both were warn down injured from their blows. Aegon, managing to fight off Caidove for just a moment, yelled for Arannis to snap out of it, managing to shake the sorcerer from the charm as he attempted to kill Balasar. The fight went on as Aegon killed Caidove (although she escaped in her mist form), violently ending her life for now, as Strahd laid into both him and Ellywick. Spitting that Ellywick wouldn't take Arannis from him, Strahd kicked her down before knocking Aegon unconscious. Max managed to get him back up, only for Strahd to be relentless, and eventually killed the Half Orc. Eloithe appeared as Max managed to revive Aegon, Arannis and Ellywick fighting the vampire as Adrie summoned wolves and Balasar threw a range of spells. The fallen aasimar's voice, and a spell that just missed Strahd, in his head, Aegon rose, beheading Strahd and killing him outright.

Instead of becoming mist, Strahd merely turned to dust, Ellywick's finger prick from her curse vanished, and the whole room went quiet, as true, glorious sunshine shone in from the outside, for the first time in centuries.

### **Life After Death**

As the dust settled, Arannis felt the darkness, a hatred for the world that had always been with him fade away, like as Strahd died so had a dark part of him. Kneeling, he whispered to Strahd's dead corpse that he had been right, that he would have done anything for his friends, before finally saying 'No Deal.' As Aegon and Eloithe embraced, the group asked Eloithe what had happened, to which she explained that upon seeing Strahd as she awoke from death, she had been charmed and forced to do terrible things, sometimes just watch, but sometimes partake. She explained that there was another, a tiefling girl, who was also here. She had fought to get to them, killing everything in between her and the rest of Mystic Obscura. Pushing a piece of magical candy into each of their mouths, she led them down to find Torment herself.

### **Poor, Tormented, Soul.**

Arriving at the room, Eloithe spoke softly with Torment as she explained about Strahd's death and their need to move on from this place. Agreeing, Torment seemed to be happy but confused at that, but gladly followed them on.

### **Healing And Planning**

As the Arannis and Balasar returned from their talk, Max playfully teased Eloithe that he had done so much healing in the fight, describing how he was basically perfect at it during the fight, to which she replied that he must be exhausted and looked pale. As the night went on, the party discussed planning as Esmeralda went off to bury Rudolph, who was revealed to be her father.

They spoke about their need to find Davon, and then move on to Agronak and the other artifacts for Adrie. Max wished to go find the witches, who apparently cooked little children, and stated he thought it was on the way back. The night quickly turned somber as Esmeralda returned, having buried her father, she met Eloithe before the group all departed for their first sleep back together.

### **Ssh I'm On The Phone**

The following morning, Ellywick tried to contact Emmalee only to find another voice on the end of the sending stone. Xanathar; the apparent ruler of Waterdeep. He told her he was annoyed that they'd escaped, and that he had sent Davon Skinner to their farm. Xanathar now had Emmalee with him, while Davon was currently with Janak, back at Summervale Farm. He also stated that Davon had killed everyone else at the farm, to which Ellywick was shocked realizing he meant her ex love, Darz. Ending the call, Ellywick went out into the forest screaming, as Arannis watched on.

### **They Took Our Clucking Chicken**

As the group traveled, they discussed the need to return back to the farm, and deal with Davon and end The Black Lodge once and for all. With resolution, the group headed to the windmill, knowing this would be there only stop before heading to the Material Plane.

### **A Barbarian And A Cleric**

As they walked, Aegon asked Maximilian whether he could contact the Harpers, maybe Thwip, and see if they could head down to the farm. Max said he could, but Eloithe stated that the Harpers would have more issues then trying to save their friend. With that; they arrived upon the windmill.

### **Children Are Not For Eating**

As Aegon and Eloithe led the way, the group encountered an old woman, who stated she wasn't expecting visitors. With that, Eloithe hit her with an Eldritch Blast as the group exploded into a fight downstairs. Aegon, Eloithe and Maximilian fought two witches upstairs, with the aid of Ellywick and Balasar, while Arannis and Adrie dueled with a witch outside. Overcoming the hags; Eloithe and Aegon freed the children from their cages and got them to safety. Finding vials of magic, Arannis and Max argued that they should take them, only for Eloithe and Ellywick to insist they wouldn't. The group argued for a little; with Max and Eloithe particularly at odds, until Elly pushed the vials into a liquid that dissolved them, inside of the windmill.

With that, Arannis blew up the windmill, and the group headed for the Material Plane with Adrie looking after the children, and hopefully, to rescue their friends.

### **Journey Home**

Leaving the witches home; the group left the mist, presumably sending the children off safely back with some of their own people. Stepping out of the fog, the group didn't have any idea of where they were, none of them having seen anything nearby. With not much else to go on, the group headed out, travelling onwards.

### **Catching Up**

That night, sat all together, the group discussed what had happened without Eloithe, Eloithe detailing her death as Arannis spoke about killing the angel, who resurrected her for Strahd. As Arannis asked to borrow Aegon, Eloithe joked that that was a new thing, which made Aegon embarrassed at the thought as Arannis just rolled his eyes.

### **Who's Fucking Who?**

Sitting with the group, Eloithe laughed about Aegon and Arannis, as Adrie asked what Eloithe felt towards Aegon now they were kissing and everything. Eloithe explained that while she cared for Aegon, it wasn't like he was exclusive to her, and that she didn't mind. She knew one day she would be married, and that would be to Lord Small Dick Stupid Face, and so she was enjoying life as she could right now. Adrie agreed, and when Balasar was pressed on their relationship, he stood up and dragged Maximilian away, to which Eloithe exclaimed everyone was fucking everyone, causing Adrie and Ellywick to laugh.

### **Don't Be Foolish, Dragonborn**

As Balasar brought Maximilian aside, he spoke very tentatively about what Max knew of possession and such. Max stated he didn't know much, but asked Balasar what he was concerned about. Balasar began to speak to Max about some part of Vibaem possessing him, when Vibaem interrupted him. He made a veiled threat, stating he would show him what he could do, if he dare tell anyone. Max seemed suspicious of how Balasar was acting, as Balasar stated he was sorry, and he needed more time to think about things. Max stated he was always here, but seemed confused and worried about Balasar as well. The group made camp, before heading out the next day.

### **Arrival In Parnast**

As the group arrived in the town, they learnt where they were from the innkeeper, who showed them they were close to a city called Loudwater, just a couple of weeks travel from here. He showed them they just needed to pass through the town of Llorkh, which part of the group knew to have a long history with mercenaries, but was seemingly a town of good now.

As Eloithe, Adrie and Arannis went off to bathe in the bath house; having bought nice new summer clothes Max and Aegon headed to the inn, with Balasar and Ellywick in tow. With a plan to travel to Loudwater, the group got a goodnights rest, before heading off.

### **Mistakes Were Made**

Arriving in the town of Llorkh, Mystic Obscura found the town had been ripped apart as Stone Giants assailed the area. Two of them spotted Mystic Obscura, who turned to each other, happily ready to take down even more giants. As most of the group focused on the nearest Stone Giants; Arannis, wishing to prove himself in battle after Strahd, ran forward to fight the second one alone. He was quickly dispatched off, as the stone giant slammed a huge long sword into him twice. Maximilian ran forward to save him, but was thrown through the air and badly hurt, as Aegon found himself receiving the same treatment from the first stone giant. As Adrie and Balasar laid down cover, the throw opened a gap for Ellywick to storm forward, killing the first stone giant. Eloithe badly damaged the second one, as did Max, before helping Arannis up, who killed the Stone Giant, returning the favor from before.

As the group moved on, seeing there were no survivors, and burying the bodies they could find, Max pulled Arannis to the back as they walked. He was angry with the elf for risking not only his life, but Max's as well. He told Arannis that he shouldn't ever be that close, and that was what he and Aegon were for. Arannis apologised, stating he felt weak in a fight, but Max stated he was very powerful, but let those who needed to take the beatings like him and Aegon do that. Arannis agreed, before stating Max looked very nice in his armor anyway.

### **Welcome To Loudwater**

The group traveled on, reaching Loudwater almost a week later. Arriving at the inn as instructed, they managed to tell the innkeeper, that they wished to use the Harper Teleportation Circle. He seemed taken aback at first, but told them he would have it done, and for them to enjoy their stays here while they did. He also warned them that many of the citizen's here loved snakes, even the Lord of the city. The group understood his coded message, before heading out into the night of the city.

### **Bed, Bath & Beyond**

Arriving at a restaurant, the group laughed and joked while enjoying their meal. They caught up over Barovia, and all that had happened. Deciding they wanted to be cleaned up properly; Max asking the server quietly if there was a library within the city, they headed over to the baths. As Arannis attempted to flirt with the bathers, and Max left early, the group relaxed from their recent endeavors, seemingly both happy and worried about what was to come ahead. As Max headed to the tavern, he ordered everyone a drink and waited for them to return. When they did, the group agreed to have a fun bet, the winner wouldn't have to be on watch for a month. Aegon finally won, as he carried everyone else up to bed in his arms.

### **A Book With A Price**

Awakening early, Max headed to the library as everyone else slept in. Arriving at the grand area, he found himself surrounded by guards who seemingly held quite the position at the library. Asking about books regarding possession, Max was granted access to the restricted section for quite a few gold coins. He paid, and was escorted by some of the guard to the area he might find the books. After a long while, he found the book he was looking for, one that seemed to speak of living forever and lichdem. Asking to buy the book, the shopkeeper explained that the book had actually already been bought, and that the price for Max to obtain it would be 15'000 Gold. Max stated he would need to return to his group, but the bookkeeper told him he would need to hurry, as Parthinia Quell would be coming to collect it at 8 bells past midday. Max left the shop, shocked and worried by Parthinia's appearance.

### **Meet The Myastans**

As the group re-convened within the inn, Max explained about the fact that Parthinia is here to buy a book from the library he visited, explaining that he wished to purchase it, as it was about Possession and Lichdem, something he feared Parthinia would want. Adrie and Arannis explained that was who they must have just seen, and Balasar looked furious as he rose. Adrie attempted to calm him as he rose, with Arannis and Eloithe answering the door to the innkeeper, who brought them a drink before stating a big party had arrived, the Myastan Clan. Balasar, enraged and brokenhearted that his family was down below; enslaved to Parthinia, went to move forward, only for everyone to get in his way as Arannis blocked the door. They managed to convince him that they needed to get out of here without an incident. With that, Max and Eloithe climbed out of the window and headed for the Library, while the rest of the group headed down the back way and into the basement, where the Teleportation Table lay.

### **No Ramifications Will Happen Whatsoever**

As Max and Eloithe arrived at the shop, arm in arm like a happy couple, Max gave over the money and after a long period of waiting, in which they fake browsed the shelves to ignore their fear at Parthinia's arrival, were sold the book. They quickly made their way back to the tavern, arriving in the basement where a slightly hungover young man finished up the circle. Stepping inside, with the book, the group knew that this had been a dangerous move against an even more dangerous foe, but hopefully one that would pay off.

### **Everyone's Frickin Dead**

Upon arriving in Yartar, the group were greeted by a friendly Harper member. As Ellywick threw up over her shoes from the travel, Max attempted to contact Darathra (The Lord Protector of Triboar) to see if she could head to Summervale Farm, in an attempt to scout out the area. Max was met with deathly silence, signally Darathra's demise. As the group began to realize that everyone they left behind could be dead, they headed to Triboar, with a strong step in their stride, and cold fury in their hearts.

### **Ya-Ta For Now**

As Mystic Obscura traveled through Yartar, they found it under heavier guard presence then before, with fewer refugees throughout the city. Posters; upon the walls, suggested there had been a recent election and a new ruler had entered the play, but no one made to look at them.

### **Let's Plan**

As they camped on the road one night, the group discussed what they should do next. After agreeing to head into town; with Aegon telling Arannis to keep out of danger, the group sat around the fire as the night went on. As Eloithe made Arannis laugh; the group questioned why he had become so much happier as of lately, with him responding that he hadn't and snarled before stomping off to make camp, leaving the others confused but happy. Ellywick, however, remained quiet, sharpening her daggers and thinking about Darz.

### **We Got Your Message**

As the group arrived back in Triboar, they found the town looking normal enough, a little more crowded due to a rise in refugees from nearby giant attacked towns, and presumably Yartar, the group headed for Urgala Meltimer's Tavern. She greeted them, but seemed surprise by there return. She explained that Darathra had in fact been murdered by Amrath, who was still missing. Darathra had been taken North to be resurrected, the town having pitched in, and expected the Lord Protector to be full of fury upon her return. She explained that they had received Mystic Obscura's note, not to come near the farm, as extensive renovations were being made and it could be dangerous. With that; Mystic Obscura hurriedly headed for their farm, angry at the prospect of Davon spending another moment at their home.

### **Ooooh You've Redecorated... I Don't Like It.**

As Ellywick lead them through the house, they found multiple empty rooms, and it seemed that Davon was here alone. There was no sign of Darz, or any of the farm hands, and the group carried on upstairs. As Elly led them through the second floor, they found in one of the rooms, a battered and beaten man, chained and unconscious on the bed. Deciding to come back for him, with Arannis suggesting it could be the true form of Janak, the group headed to the basement.

### **Lots Of Fighting**

Arriving in the training area of their home, the group found Davon Skinner, and alongside him, trapped in some sort of magical trap, suspended in the air and unconcious, was a very beaten but alive Janak. As Davon snarled, and drew his blade, Ellywick questioned what he'd done to Darz, Davon snarled that she'd find out soon enough. As the group exploded into combat, Arannis hasted himself and flew forward, around the columns as Max, Aegon and Ellywick charged him. As Davon raised the dead, summoning multiple dead farm hands (and Darz) alongside a dead Ogre, he turned his attention on Max and Ellywick as Aegon fought with the zombie ogre.

Eloithe and Balasar fought off the zombies, as Max turned most of them to dust with his destroy undead, Adrie disarmed Davon, only for him to become a werewolf. As Arannis fought the ogre from afar, aiding Aegon, Ellywick was viciously bit by the werewolf, before almost being knocked unconscious, but saved thanks to Max's death ward. As Adrie cast moonbeam on Davon, forcing him backwards, he took his frustration out on Maximilian, viciously attacking him as Aegon finally killed the dead Ogre. As Max dropped, only to be saved by Eloithe, he was knocked unconscious again as Davon went for the killing blow, only for him to find himself face to face with Arannis, who blasted Davon with necrotic energy and sent him slamming into the wall, finally defeated and unconscious.

As Arannis helped pick Max up; Ellywick pinned Davon to the wall, knife in her hand. She cried, as she slowly slipped the knife into him, killing him. Arannis caught Janak, telling him when the former chicken had told him not to do anything dangerous, he thought he'd meant the same back. Janak was confused, not understanding what had happened. Arannis, after accepting Max's thank you, moved over to Ellywick; who was still pinned Davon to the wall, while stroking her hair out of her face, he told her it was ok, she could let go now, it was time to let Darz be at peace. Ellywick finally relented, and as Balasar asked if she was ok, she retorted that that was a stupid question, walking past him.

Arannis and Max moved Davon into the center of the room, with the elf burning the body, while Aegon found Davon's secret chest, getting back most of their items; except for Adrie's artifact, which worried her greatly as Balasar consoled her and a magic weather based book was also in the chest, with the group summarizing it might belong to the man upstairs.

### **Aye Aye Captain**

Heading up, Eloithe, Max and Aegon entered the room as the others waited around the doorway. After using magic to heal and clean him up a little, the man introduced himself as Captain Blake Blackmoor, with nearly all of the group (bar the elves) knowing who he was, a pirate, a hero, a savior, a villain (that one mainly written by the government.) He explained he was captured in Fireshears by Davon, and that he had been with him ever since, being dragged from town to town. Mystic Obscura explained Davon was dead, and Captain Blake was free to go, with his magic book. As Eloithe went to cook dinner, flustered by the dishy captain, the group allowed the Captain to get cleaned up, as Janak rested for a while.

As they ate; Blake and Janak with them, Blake explained he wished to help them in their goals, as he owed them a life debt. The group explained they needed to get to Waterdeep, and Blake insisted he'd help them get there, his own ship (the famous Adventure Galley) being there, well, within Skullport alongside some members of his crew. He stated he would be their friend and weapon, and that he owed them that at least. As Max and Arannis excused themselves, Eloithe forced food down people's throats, and demanded Janak not to move.

### **We'll Follow, Always**

As Max entered the Library, he called for Eloithe to join him, using the sending spell. Eloithe arrived a few minutes later, and Max explained his suspicions about Balasar to her, in which Eloithe agreed to keep an eye on him from now on. Eloithe warned Max that, should something terrible happen in Waterdeep to her, she didn't want him or the rest of Mystic Obscura to follow her anywhere else dangerous, citing both the Abyss and Ravenloft as examples of this. Max disagreed, stating they would always follow after her, she was family, and that's what they did for family.

### **How Would We Like To Do This?**

As Mystic Obscura sat downstairs; they found themselves discussing whats to come, they decided discussions would be better off for the morning, the party heading upstairs to sleep.

### **The Lord of The Rooms**

As Eloithe entered the biggest room; she found Arannis had already claimed it, and the two began exchanging barbs before Eloithe stripped naked as Arannis did as well, neither willing to leave the room, before settling down in bed. As Max and Adrie walked past to see this; Adrie sharing her concerns about seeing the Other Arannis and what was to come with Bird, Max reassured her, but trying to lighten the mood by sending a message to Aegon in an attempt to prank Arannis, saying Eloithe wanted to see him. As Arannis cast darkness in the room, in an attempt to unsettle Eloithe, but found she gleefully reminded him she could see through magical darkness, Aegon bumped into Adrie asking if she knew why Eloithe would want to meet him. Adrie stated she didn't know, before running off while pointing Aegon to the right room.

Arriving at the room, Aegon entered as Eloithe jumped out of bed, pulling on a shirt before Aegon could see through the magical darkness. As Eloithe stepped outside of the room, Arannis used magic to slam the door shut before barricading the room. As Eloithe explained what was happening to a confused Aegon, Aegon questioned whether Eloithe would want to stay in his room. Eloithe denied this; stating they couldn't, as she had to be perfect for her future husband. Aegon understood, before Eloithe patted his shoulder, heading off to another room as Aegon yelled through the door that he and Arannis would be training soon.

### **Once Upon A Dragonborn**

As Adrie heard a knock on her door, she found herself face to face with Balasar. He asked her how she was, and she replied in kind. He explained he hoped she didn't think what had happened with the artifact was her fault, he asked her if perhaps he could stay with her for the night, and with a smile she led him into the room, the two finally consummating their relationship.

### **Morning Discussions**

As the group sat and planned, they discussed how they were to get to Waterdeep, and what exactly they were to do within the city? Aegon brought up perhaps dealing with Dissumusk while the group were down there, with Arannis agreeing. Eloithe and Max were viciously against this, even as Arannis brought up Eloithe's families safety, Eloithe was more concerned on her name surviving then her families, something which disgusted Arannis. Ellywick cut them all off, telling them they weren't walking into anymore battles, and that she wanted to rest after this. As the group turned lighter, Aegon and Eloithe headed out where they discussed being friends that kissed a lot, to which Aegon replied with a kiss for good luck.

### **The Journey To Waterdeep**

As Mystic Obscura; and Captain Blake Blackmoor, traveled along to Waterdeep, they found no trouble within the city. Arriving there, they headed for a famed inn known as The Yawning Portal; famous for it's passage way into the Under Mountain, and packed full of adventurers, they bought some rooms while Max sent a message to Random.

### **A Random Encounter**

Random informed Max they were still being looked for, and to be-careful. He stated should the group head into battle with Xanathar, they would die a death. Random offered to arrange a meeting, before informing Max that Eloithe's father had been killed by Ada, who had disowned both her siblings and disavowed their family name. With Ada truly only being the last Mistborn left, Random told him to not let her near her family home, in fear of repercussions. Random also informed them that Volo, a famous author, was big friends with Force Grey, and that he might know their location so they could speak to the Giant member, who might have more information for them, and that he was known to hang out a lot within the Yawning Portal. Random also informed Max that a woman from the Circle of Dreams; Regan, had been looking for Adrie.

As Max explained what Random had said about Xanathar and told Adrie about Regan, who informed them all she was an enforcer for the Circle Of Dreams; to bring back those from the circle who had done wrong, Adrie realised it was a real possibility she would be trialed for her helping Rynnik with the artifacts. Max took Eloithe into a different bedroom and explained to her that her father had died, killed by Ada, and that she had been disowned, as had her brother. Eloithe was notably distraught, heading down with the others to drink.

### **Fan-Fiction**

As Eloithe sat drinking, trying to forget he feelings, Arannis took upon the task of finding Volo. Once locating him within the balcony section of the inn, he posed as an excited fan and managed to learn the location of two Force Grey members, Archon The Cruel and the Frost Giant, Harshnag, who was the one they were looking for, up North nearby Zymorven Hall. Arannis thanked him, even getting a signed book under the name of Balasar, who Arannis happily threw the book at as he moaned about spending so much money on the stupid writer. Explaining what he had discovered, Aegon and Balasar headed off to get more drinks as Regan, the Circle of Dreams enforcer approached, she told Adrie she hadn't long to get her things in order, and that she would be back to collect her soon.

### **Meet And Greet**

Random contacted Max later that evening, stating Xanathar wanted a meeting this evening, and they would be meeting with his lieutenant, Elison. As Max explained the name, Arannis questioned whether that Elison would be Janak's husband. Despite the slim chance, Eloithe stated they'd keep their eyes out, and the group agreed to head out.

Arriving there, they saw Elison and lots of men, noting that they were surrounded from within the shadows. Elison wore a slavers chain around his neck, suggesting his imprisonment. The nearest guard explained it was a misunderstanding, that Xanathar had only wished to rough them up, maybe have one of them die, but that he never wished for them to be slaughtered like Davon Skinner had wanted. He stated Xanathar merely wished to size them up, and he had done, with Emmalee returning to them, as long as they deal with the Zhentarim Mercenaries currently ruling Yartar at the moment, as it was bad for business. The group agreed, but when Aegon pressed about Adrie's artifact, despite Ellywick and Eloithe ushering people away, Xanathar revealed himself to be a Beholder, stating that they could have it back... should they kill a rival of his.

Dissumusk, the Pale Death. Aegon vocalized his shock as the group pulled him away, stating they'd have him an answer by tomorrow.

### **Make Them Remember You**

As the group walked back in silence; considering all Xanathar had said, Regan appeared and motioned for Adrie to come with her, and to say her goodbyes quickly. Balasar told her he loved her. Ellywick and Eloithe hugged her goodbye. Max gave her a nod. Aegon told them to come back safe, glaring at Regan. Arannis told her to "Make them remember you." And as Adrie walked away... she knew she would.

### **These Aren't The Adventurers You're Looking For**

Saddened by Adrie's departure, and puzzled by Xanathar's request, the group returned to The Yawning Portal, where a mass of crowns-guard awaited them. As Max went to raise his weapon, the Captain snarled, informing them they were under arrest for the murder of Eloithe's father, and that they would come quietly, or loudly, but they would come.

### **Thou's Prison Pocket**

As the group were escorted by the guards; who had obviously been kitted out to deal with the group, Ellywick, Maximilian and Arannis all attempted to hide items that were precious to them; Elly managing to hide a pick lock, Max failing to hide the Black Codex and Arannis attempting to hide the components for a fireball and haste spell. For this, Max was treated rougher and Arannis was placed in an anti magic cell.

The guards told them their trial would be soon, with Eloithe knowing that they would most likely get some kind of way to speak. However, a couple of days past and no trial came, the guards treating the group more and more with disdain, claiming they knew they were guilty.

### **A Hint Of Elf**

The following day; the group were released, the guards seemingly disgusted that some peasant had been framed for a murder they thought Mystic Obscura had committed. Though Eloithe assured them it was not the case, they were told there saviors were awaiting them outside. Stepping out, they were greeted by human Sailors who informed them their Captain, not Blackmoor, was awaiting them. They all seemed nice and normal, although Arannis noted a hint of elf in their accents as they went.

Travelling to the ship, with no other choice as this Captain had their things, the group arrived at the boat where a young gold dragon had been spotted circling the bay. It bobbed up, but one the men through a rock at it, claiming their captain had told them not to speak to it.The dragon swam away as the group boarded the ship, led by the men into the dark hold. The group finally met the Captain, who informed them it was down to Dissumusk that Edrick had taken Emmalee, and that they were in a known location in Skullport. He stated he would like to help them, as Dissumusk is cruel and awful monster, and the Captain isn't a fan of that. He invited them with him; the group still not receiving their gear, and took them down a hatch.

### **Deep Down We Go**

As they went down, the illusion faded to reveal that the captain, actually the famous Captain Jarlaxle Baenre, was in fact a Drow, as were the rest of the crew, using the ship to magically hide their features. As Arannis climbed down, he was shocked to find himself surrounded by Drow, and wouldn't speak to them as the group carried on. Entering the bridge, the group found themselves on a Submarine, powered by gears and the arcane. It zapped the Dragon that got too close, not hurting it, but repelling it. On the way down to skullport it also zapped a large octopus.

### **Biting The Hand That Freed You**

As Jarlaxle gave them instructions, Arannis wondered to him if he had ever met the drow Drada. Upon the drow admitting he didn't, Arannis remarked that he wore her ring now. Upon being stopped by a Drow, who demanded Arannis apologised to the captain, Arannis smirked and faked his apology before leaving. As Jarlaxle promised he'd kill the elf; Max exclaimed that would be a problem, sending Jarlaxle in a fit of rage and getting his guards to get Arannis back. As Jarlaxle yelled he'd been nothing but kind, Arannis relented and apologised, surprising everyone with his honesty as Jarlaxle accepted it, acting as if nothing had ever happened. The group eventually left the Submarine.

### **Words Cause Wars**

Upon the dock, as the Submarine sank away, Eloithe exploded upon Arannis and Max claiming their words were foolish and stupid, and that they needed to stop goading people into fights, stating they needed allies and not more enemies. She focused on Arannis, telling him he needed to stop being so selfish and start thinking about the group, instead of snapping at every asshole they come across. Arannis apologised, as Eloithe stated she didn't want to lose anyone else, understanding her rage and accepting his faults. The group made up, carrying on to find Dissumusk.

### **Dissumusk Will See You Now**

As the group infiltrated Dissumusk's lair, Ellywick and Aegon were poisoned by a trap, but Maximilian saved them while magical expending energy to do so. Encountering a Minotaur guard, Aegon cut him down as they continued on. Seeing Dissumusk, Aegon charged forward as an elite Drow fighter also attacked. With Emmalee and Edrick trapped by a Troll, Dissumusk took a step back and used his abilities to freeze everyone in place; except for Ellywick and Arannis, the former fighting through the effects and the latter not being in range of the ability. Arannis leapt forward, fighting Dissumusk, who in turn attacked Aegon while he was frozen. Ellywick hid between Crystals and Water, shooting and firing at Dissumusk before heading off to save Emmalee and Edrick. As Balasar and Max were freed from the mind freeze; Dissumusk was killed by Arannis, but not before he ate Aegon's brain. As Arannis, Balasar and the now free Eloithe thought a Troll, Max observed Aegon's body, realizing he could not bring him back.

### **He Did Not Rise**

Looking at the body, everyone was emotional over Aegon's mutilated corpse. Arannis begged Aegon to get up as Eloithe attempted to move his body onto her cloak, to carry him. As Max and Balasar picked him up, noting no one in Waterdeep could save him; it would fall to the Drow up north to help them, Arannis comforted Eloithe, saying she was right, they weren't going to lose anyone else.

### **A Ring For A Life**

Arriving back in the Submarine, Jarlaxle was shocked to see Aegon's body, and gave Mystic Obscura a ring to pay for his revival. He told Eloithe that they would be able to get as far as Luskan, but that they would probably wish to see Xanathar first. Agreeing, he gave them directions of a place Xanathar would be shocked to see them, and that they would be able to surprise him first. As the group headed out, Arannis mentioned his mother to Jarlaxle; who had been killed by Drow, explaining Arannis' hatred for their kind. Jarlaxle confirmed this, stating that Elora was looking for him, and that Arannis truly had no idea what she had planned for him.

### **Up The Steps We Go**

The group headed up a lot of steps, heading off to see Xanathar, to try and take him by surprise. As they went; without Aegon or Adrie, loss and sadness flowed throughout them, unsure as to what was ahead...

### **I Didn't Think Misty Step Did This**

As the group ascended, the mist drifted off the shoreline. Ellywick called to Arannis as her hand began to bleed from Strahd's prick, which had previously disappeared. Covered in fog, the group were taken far away from Waterdeep... taken back in time.

### **Who We Were**

As Mystic Obscura finished their adventure in Daggerford, they headed on their way to Waterdeep, to meet with Cassian. Arannis snarled at Max and Balasar, Aegon and Eloithe shared small, secret glances as Ellywick tried to keep them all in check. Adrie was gone of course... after.. .what happened.

### **Squash Goals**

Upon arriving near the village of Golden Grain, the group encountered a lot of magical pumpkins attacking a man named Willburg. Defeating the pumpkins with strength they didn't know they possessed, the group were invited to help Willburg find his horse for money and an escort back to Golden Grain. They did so; and got him back safely, even as they found the town mysteriously boarded up and suspiciously quiet.

### **Carving Out A Mystery**

Arriving in an inn, they found the barkeep Joyce; a former adventurer there, who explained that pumpkins had been murdering people here, including her son, and that they only had two leads. Willburg stated a gnome named Dryleaf had been trying to investigate, but hadn't got far, and that a witch had been murdered a while back by villagers, and that she was possibly responsible, all they knew is someone had tried to tie a Fiend to them, and it had failed, resulting in the Fiend being released.

### **Thou Was Not A Basic Bitc-Witch**

As the group drank into the night, Arannis and Max fell asleep on each other in a drunken mess as Aegon sprawled on the table. The next day; they headed to see Dryleaf, only to encounter a stumbling block as the halfing (not gnome) expressed he had not found anything. The group headed to the witches house; to find it deserted after the battle long ago, but found her awakened cat Farlane. The cat expressed that she knew where the fiend; The Pumpkin King, was, in exchange for her leaving with them. The group were confused by this; but agreed, even as Max showed apprehension. As they followed Farlane, they were attacked by more pumpkins, including a pumpkin bear. Easily defeating them, surprised by their own power, the group carried on.

### **Hollow Is** **The Pumpkin King**

Entering the Pumpkin King's lair, Ellywick sneaked forward and found Dryleaf doing experiments on people, putting pumpkins inside of them. He surrendered quickly, admitting he had been the one trying to bind the fiend, but in the end had released it upon the world. He stated that it called itself The Pumpkin King. The group tied Dryleaf up and left Farlane guarding him as they descended down into The Pumpkin King's lair. The Pumpkin King attempted to scare them, but failed, and a battle broke out as Max, Aegon and Ellywick rushed forward, Balasar and Arannis hanging back and working spells. Ellywick eventually slew the King and the group returned Dryleaf for questioning and imprisonment.

### **Just A Pumpkin Patchy Vision**

Back in the Tavern, they discussed the adventure, as Farlane stated that it was just a vision. That they would soon return, and she would be coming with the. As the group questioned what she meant, Arannis found a black feather behind his neck, indicating The Raven Queen. As he reached for Aegon, suddenly realizing the truth, the vision ended.

### **The Barbarian With A Star In His Eye**

Awaking on the floor of Xanathar's palace, the group realized what had happened, as Jarlaxle and Xanathar spoke. Eventually, Jarlaxle convinced Xanathar to resurrect Aegon, in return for he owed him being paid. Xanathar relented and got a Cleric in, as she attempted to resurrect Aegon, Eloithe whispered for him to come back to her, kissing him. Arannis placed the feather from The Raven Queen in Aegon's hand, and told him to come home, as Ellywick threaten him that he wasn't done yet, and to get up. As the spell weaved it's magic, Aegon approached the God of Death, who spoke to him about being claimed; however, The Platinum Dragon peered down at Aegon, telling him he had claimed him, and to return home, as the battle wasn't over yet. As Aegon awoke, Eloithe looked in amazement, to find his eyes were ringed with gold... and he was alive.

### **What Do You Remember?**

As Aegon awoke, the group explained what had happened to him, with Max complimenting his eyes. Aegon seemed confused, but loved them as he got used to them. The group continued there as Edrick noticed the closeness between Eloithe and Aegon, but Eloithe played it off. Random sent Ellywick a message saying Adrie was with him, and to come find her. Xanathar explained Elison would be back to them in a few weeks, as it would take a while to unbreak him. They did, however, get the artifact.

### **A Random Encounter**

Adrie found herself in a tavern, where she met Random. As they spoke, Adrie was a little upset. Random contacted the group, and they quickly arrived. Adrie snapped at them when they made light of Aegon's death, but the group quickly brushed it aside to hug her.

### **The Artefact Which We ALL TOTALLY NEED**

Eloithe gave Adrie the artefact, and made sure she was truly ok. Adrie thanked her, just that there was so much that had happened. The group explained all that happened to them. Jail. Jarlaxle. Barovia. Xanathar. Adrie was upset, but thankfully listened and understood.

### **A Favour For A Friend**

As the group explained, Random spoke to Arannis about dating Ellywick, pulling in his favour to make the elf approve and like the deal. Arannis agreed, rather quickly, before walking away grumpily from Random. The Tiefling laughed many laughs that night.

### **Blossoming Relationships**

As the group prepared to head to Everlund, Max and Arannis began packing as Farlane appeared. She lambasted Max after he showed distrust towards her, but Arannis was unusally the peacemaker as they prepared to depart. Arannis told Farlane to head towards Triboar with their caravan, and that she would find their home up there. As Farlane left, Arannis scolded Max for being too distrusting, to which Max acknowledged that he isn't very good with cats. Asking about why Arannis had bought a blossom tree while in Waterdeep, Arannis admitted Hector had taken him on their first date to a grove of them back in Shadowdale. Max seemed slightly thoughtful about that, having never thought about Arannis on a date before. The two headed out to meet the others.

### **Return To Everlund**

Heading to The Harpers, they all got teleported to Everlund, where they were met with a familiar bar. Heading out, the group traveled for many days, arriving at Zymorven Hall but learning that they had missed the Lord of the manor by a few days, himself having traveled out to stop some giant attack nearby. Continuing on, the group arrived at Rivermoot, to find the town in ruin... and a battle raging on.

### **The** **Battle of Rivermoot**

Arriving in the town, the group found Harshnag battling a small squadron of Orc's from The Molten River Clan. As Aegon, Ellywick, Balasar and Max headed right, Eloithe, Arannis and Adrie flanked the Orcs. Each side battling with grit, with only Adrie and Balasar falling pray to wounds. As Arannis and Eloithe teamed up to protect Adrie, Balasar found himself face to face with an orc preparing to kill him, only for Ellywick to save him as the battle finished. As Max explained who they were to Harshnag, the Giant had news for them, he was headed up North into the mountains... to face Agronak and his army. The group agreed to travelling with Harshnag, with Max stating he could teach him more giant swearwords, to which Harshnag admitted he only swore when he was in battle.

### **A Giant Pep Talk**

As the group sat to camp, Aegon and Harshnag discussed the fact that Aegon was Agronak's brother. Harshnag admitted that it must be difficult for Aegon, but that he believed in the power of the small folk. Aegon thanked him for that, and the two discussed the Giant issue, with Harshnag admitting that he wasn't sure what was making them act so odd, but hopefully after defeating Agronak, Mystic Obscura might be willing to come with him to find out about a Giant Oracle. Mystic Obscura seemed willing.

### **Sleep Well Adrie**

As Adrie headed to bed, she found Bird awaiting her in her dreams. He warned her that all was not well with Balasar, a darkness festering in him like a cancer. Adrie tried to thank Rynnik, but he shot back that he didn't do it for her. Rynnik warned they were not friends, nor were they on the same side. Adrie stated they were for now. He bid her goodnight, and Adrie left, heading to a fitful sleep.

### **We Fight Because We Love**

As the group travelled on, Ellywick hopped on Aegon's shoulders as they trudged through the snow. Arannis and Max argued, Max awaking Arannis by pouring cold water on him, and Arannis tripping the cleric in the snow. Balasar and Adrie teased Ellywick about her date, to which she threatened to stab them all should they keep bringing it up. Spirits were high, with Max that night confirming through the divination spell that Agronak was indeed where they were headed. As they planned, Aegon agreed not to charge forward and stick with the group... a promise he was soon to break.

### **An Eloithe Avalanche**

As they arrived in the War Camp, hundreds of soldiers lay below them, as Eloithe and Harshnag bid there goodbyes, both heading off to fight the Camp, the rest of the group waited on their signal. Each of them stood in silence, knowing full well they could die should something go wrong. As Harshnag and Eloithe slid down on an avalanche, unleashing deadly magic and tonnes of snow on the War Camp, Mystic Obscura used the distraction to head into the runes.

### **Into The Tomb**

Inside the Dwarven Ruins, the group traveled carefully, almost avoiding all the traps until Aegon was physically attacked by a final door. Entering the room, Agronak sat upon a throne. He snarled at Aegon about how weak their father was. A ghost appeared, the form of Agronak's wife, and as Aegon froze at the woman he had accidentally killed in a sparring match, she reached for Ellywick and attempted to posses her. Ellywick resisted, but a blast of ghostly energy sent her friends (Max, Arannis and Adrie) running scared from the ghost. Aegon; breaking his promise, charged Agronak, as everyone else burst into combat.

### **The Flayed Desolation**

As Aegon faced off with Agronak; he found himself massively outclassed, Agronak having used magic to alter his strength and abilities. Adrie transformed into a bear and Ellywick battled with an other Orc. Agronak; sensing Aegon's weakness, attacked the rest of Mystic Obscura, hurting them greatly but snapping them out of being scared. Arannis went to work on clearing the playing field, as well as stopping a spell from ripping Aegon apart. Ellywick constantly revived Max, who was under attack from multiple sources as Balasar lay on deaths door. Max eventually stay conscious long enough to heal everyone, Adrie now a giant Hyena fighting an Orc war chief. Aegon was quickly dispatched by Agronak; the other's unable to get to him in time, and was frozen in place as Agronak attacked his friends. With Adrie and Max down, and himself, Balasar and Ellywick weakened, Arannis pulled out the Raven Queen's feather, and begged her to help him... and she did.

### **She Comes From Shadow**

Elora Galandal appeared from shadows; aiding them with the fight, using the shadows to move and damage Agronak. Aegon could only watch, still frozen in place, as Mystic Obscura fell and rose to face Agronak. Without Eloithe. Without Aegon. It was in the final moments, with only Balasar, Elora and Ellywick left standing, that Aegon managed to break free from his brothers spell. He charged Agronak, dealing the killing blow as he stated "Gruumsh sends his regards." and with that, ripped out his brothers eye, and took his crown.

### **A Gift**

As Aegon stood motionless over his brothers body and Adrie and Max went to work healing the gorup, Ellywick could only watch in shock as Elora brought Arannis back to consciousness. She lambasted him for always running from The Raven Queen, but decided to leave him with a parting gift, considering how many birthdays of his she's missed. With that. She was gone. And someone else, near the thrown, lay...

Arannis moved over to the body, only to find Hector laying there. He seemed shocked, battered and bruised, but embraced Arannis upon realizing what was happening. Arannis broke down, kissing his loves face as he begged Aegon to help him up. Aegon couldn't move however, and so Max reluctantly helped Hector up with Arannis. As Ellywick stood, watching in incomprehensible silence, Mystic Obscura left the Throne Room...

### **Make You Feel My Love**

Sat camping,Harshnag and Eloithe arrived, battle worn but unharmed. Both seemed happy to see them, as Adrie and Balasar explained what had happened. Arannis watched over Hector's sleeping body as Ellywick asked if that was Hector. Arannis nodded, smiling as Ellywick stated she was sickened at how happy he'd be now. Arannis teased her about Random, and as Ellywick punched him in the arm, they sat together, happily watching over Hector.

Max headed off to find Aegon, punching him in the face and telling him that he broke his promise, and almost got them all killed. Sensing Max's anger, Ellywick headed off to find him, with Max admitting they needed a new tent... and that he didn't know why he was angry. Ellywick stated she did, hugging the cleric at his heartbreak.

### **We Need A Big Book**

As the group continued on, they discussed that they needed to get into Candlekeep, and discussed how they were to gain entry. Max, realizing he was the only one who had been, knew that they would either need to be a Teacher, a Scholar, or buy their way in with a book worth a 1000 Gold or more. The group discussed where they could buy it from, with Eloithe and Max both realizing they may need to return to Loudwater, even with the Zhentarim ruling there.

### **There Is A Darkness In My Ballie**

As Adrie and Max tented together with Ellywick, Adrie admitted to Max that she thought their was darkness within Balasar, as that was what Bird said. Max admitted he'd seen it himself, but not to trust Bird either, he was slippery and wasn't always the best person to speak to about these things. Max admitted he would look for information regarding what was effecting Balasar in Candlekeep, and Adrie agreed to not push Balasar too far, in case of any consequences. As Arannis found Max, asking why he was sharing a tent with Adrie instead of him and Hector, Max headed out to find Aegon, while Ellywick despaired over how Arannis could be so blind.

### **My Anger Wasn't Justice**

Finding Aegon, Max and the half orc apologised to each other for their actions in and out of the battle, with Aegon stating he shouldn't have run off, because watching them almost die was his greatest fear realized, and that he had every right to punch him. Max stated he should have done that, as it wasn't right to blame Aegon for what would have been a dark and brutal fight no matter what. Aegon admitted that despite the win, it didn't feel like they'd truly won. Max agreed, and accompanied Aegon back to camp.

### **A War Camp In Action**

The following days, the group traveled until they arrived at Nesme, which had been turned into a Zhentarim Fort. Hobgoblins and a Giant; possibly the leader who had been rumored to be working with the serpents, arrived, and headed into the War Camp. Despite a brief debate about how they would face the group, they saw a caravan headed for the War Camp, seemingly unaware of the danger they were in. The group rushed down to intercept the caravan and a group of Zhentarim before they met. The Zhentarim threatened the Caravan, but Mystic Obscura arrived and made short work of them, helping the caravan.

### **Dear Estagar Holdfast**

The Caravan leader introduced himself as Estagar Holdfast, a noble family from Cormyr. Estagar admitted he was heading to Nesme to sell his wears, but that he hadn't realised what had happened. He and his guards showed Mystic Obscura what he was selling... lots and lots of books. Mystic Obscura couldn't believe their look, and invited him to camp with them, and if they could buy a book worth a thousand gold. As Estagar looked through his collection, the group camped for the night.

### **A Tyr In Your Heart**

As Max headed off to pray, watching as Arannis and Hector camped for the night and Aegon and Eloithe sat talking quietly, he asked Tyr; his god, why he doesn't help him. Suddenly, he was transported to a beautiful marble throne room, where Tyr sat, behind him a weighing scale, measuring the good and the bad in the universe. Tyr told Max he did help him, every time he healed, every time he revived someone. He warned Max that he would no if he wasn't on the right path, because his powers wouldn't work for him anymore. Max thanked him for his guidance, with that, Tyr sent him back, but not without a message for Eloithe and Aegon.

### **Bahamut Approves**

As Aegon and Eloithe sat together, Max approached, and admitted he'd spoken with his god, who among other things told him Bahamut approves of their relationship, should they wish to pursue it. Aegon was happy at this, but Eloithe still showed hesitance, and stated she didn't know what they were talking about. Aegon seemed saddened by this, heading to get some ale.

### **Let's Go To Candlekeep**

As the group awoke the following morning, they decided to head down to Candlekeep. Balasar suddenly revealed he'd once visited Candlekeep, and that he has painful memories of when another clan attacked him their, stating it wouldn't be safe to go back. Despite everyone seemingly agreeing they'd find somewhere else, Arannis took Balasar to the side afterwards.

### **You Turn My Heart To Stone**

Arannis confronted Balasar over why he was lying, and while Balasar managed to resist Vibaem's pull at first, the Lich won out, and viciously turned Arannis to stone before the elf could react, with nothing but pain and betrayal in his eyes as he was pinned to a tree and solidified. Balasar's memories were modified to show something else had attacked, and rushed to the group to alert them. Ellywick, Max and Hector were horrifed while Eloithe, Aegon and Adrie searched the area, but found nothing.. and then Estagar approached.

### **... I Can Fix Him... For A Price...**

Estagar seemingly began sniffing at Arannis, before revealing himself to be a Rakshasa; a deal making devil, he laughed that Max had already made a deal with him (a favour for the book worth a 1000 Gold) and told him he'd bring Arannis back, if he gave him Hector in return. The group refused, but Estagar warned that they couldn't trust Hector, and that it would all end poorly in the end. Hector seemed confused by this, but Estagar snarled that he wouldn't know anyway. Estagar warned he'd see them again, leaving them and heading for the woods, with his devilish friends; who were definitely not guards. He didn't leave however, before revealing that it had been Balasar, or more so the thing inside of him, that had cast the spell to turn Arannis to stone.

### **Who's Inside Your Head?**

As Estagar left, Adrie and the rest of the group turned on Balasar, who's memories returned as Vibaem took control, revealing who he was and why he did it. He explained how the staff had tied him to Balasar, but that he couldn't leave if he wanted to. Balasar took back control, as Adrie proposed they head to Last Light to fix Arannis. The group agreed, with Balasar being made to carry Arannis for hiding this secret from them.

### **Welcome To The Woods**

Arriving close to the High Forest, the group made camp. Harshnag admitted he could go no further, having made enemies with some of the tribes in the forest, and not being welcomed back. He told them he would meet up with his old friend, Darathra, in Triboar and await them there. He warned them he felt like they were being followed for a few weeks now, but couldn't spot what it was. The group bid him farewell for now, before facing the forest. In this time, Aegon approached Adrie, admitting he'd like to get closer to Bahamut and asked her to teach him how to pray. She agreed, and the two sat in silence, as Adrie walked him through the motions.

Max approached Eloithe, explaining he had warded the book against evil. They also discussed the fact Vibaem couldn't be taken to Triboar, due to Janak being there. Max wanted to send him away, but Eloithe cautioned patience for now, to see how things developed before they headed home.

### **Introducing, Elros Dimitri**

A new figure hiked through the High Forest. Looking for the town of Last Light, Elros Dimitri was a man on a mission. He was saved; by a man named Ive, who explained Last Light had been taken over. Elros followed the man who taught him how to survive in the woods, while heading for what he called, The Safe House.

### **Surrounded We Are**

The group awoke in the middle of the night, to find there camp surrounded as a wizard stepped out. The Wizard; named Hewgrove, seemed to lead the group of mismatched people, and told them Blik awaited there presence. Realising they couldn't win this fight, the group surrendered, as there weapons were taken, and they were lead through the woods.

### **Meeting In The Woods**

As Elros and Ive sat together, they were quickly surrounded by Hewgrove, who captured them both as well when Ive revealed to know the wizard, bitter enemies within the forest. As Ive cautioned Elros against fighting, the half elf agreed, handing over his weapon and surrendering as well. He recognised Mystic Obscura, who seemed wary of the newcomer, with Elros explaining he wasn't sure whether they were villains or heroes, but he liked them anyway.

### **Welcome To Last Light... Again**

The group travelled a long while, before finally reaching Last Light, where they met the Ancient Green Dragon, and ruler of the forest, Blik. Blik revealed himself to be mighty, who told them they would join his army after he had questioned them. Throwing them all in cells; within an inn in Last Light, the group were cramped into cells.

### **The Adventures Of Mighty Battlecat**

A few moments later, and the two guards were knocked unconscious as a giant, tough looking cat burst through the door, as an old looking goblin looked at them all. Ive explained his name was Zeb, with who he was leader of Last Light with. He explained he had come to rescue them, and that he would lead them out of here and to the safe house. The group followed.

### **The Safest Of Houses**

Arriving in the safe house, the group saw many different kinds of people (See TTWLB, in the Episodes section for info on these characters.) And were lead to meet the leader of the Last Light community, Kaisa. As Eloithe was overjoyed; Kaisa greeted the rest of Mystic Obscura, before explaining that after the Fae presence had left, Blik took over and the members of Last Light were forced underground.

### **A Little Goblin Help**

As the group waited for Eloithe, a goblin came over, explaining his name was Vanaell and he'd been following them from Waterdeep, something that didn't surprise the group, after what Harshnag had been saying a few days prior. He explained he was actually the Golden Dragon under the Waterdeep Bay, and that he had been following them at the ask of Bahamut. Vanaell stated he wished to help the group, and gave them information of where to find the Wizard, and also the statue of Arannis that Blik had stolen from the group. The group formed a plan, before being introduced to Briar, who was happy to meet Mystic Obscura.

### **Don't You Trust Me?**

As Last Light decided to distract the dragon, with Vanaell's help, Mystic Obscura, Elros and Zeb headed out to face Hewgrove and get Arannis back. Max questioned Elros, and why he was here, but Elros just stated he was a traveller. That was all. The fight ensued with Hewgrove bringing out his undead, pet beholder, and while they fought bravely, only Elros, Aegon and Eloithe remained standing for the whole of the fight. With Elros warning Hewgrove he too was a villain but worse, Eloithe delivered the final blow, while listening very carefully to what the half elf had said. Eloithe questioned Elros on his words; but Elros just smiled, continuing to heal her friends.

### **Who We Are**

Arriving back in Last Light, Vanaell restored an unconscious Arannis back to his natural form, while Elros asked Kaisa if he could stay in Last Light, wishing to do some good. Kaisa accepted, before offering Balasar a way to free Vibaem. Balasar and the group spoke, with Arannis stirring enough to call Max an idiot when he stated they would come back and kill the dragon. Eloithe gave Balasar the final say, and Balasar asked Elros how he was a villain. Elros explained he had been a murderer and a spy, but after the death of his son while he was away on a job, he gave it up to be good. With Balasar admitting he wished to be free of the lich. Kaisa went to banish the lich, who attempted to kill her, but Arannis counter-spelled him, and Kaisa quickly banished Vibaem into Balasar's coat. Making it his phylactery. The group departed Last Light, heading to Triboar, for some much needed rest.

### **Welcome Home**

As the group arrived home, they found Triboar seemingly running normal, and headed the few miles to their farm. Meeting up with Quinnlan, the new halfing farmhand, and his grandchildren and daughter, all who explained they worked here and lived in the other house on the farm; most of Mystic Obscura welcomed them with open arms, as Arannis seemingly didn't want the house overrun by halfings. Finding Janak, Eloithe was pleased to see Emmalee learning magic as the group reconciled with everyone. Adrie admitted she was working on a way to fix Janak's form to revert him back to human, but that it wouldn't be ready until the next day. Preparing for a meal, Elison and Hector found the group, with Hector embracing Arannis; happy he was back to normal, while explaining he'd turned the downstairs library into their bedroom; much to Max's chagrin, while Elison thanked them for freeing him. The group ate dinner together, all laughing and joking as Aegon and Briar arrived, with Aegon greeting everyone after having checked the road behind them for followers from Last Light, while Briar had been in Triboar buying supplies. Briar was besmitten with Emmalee as Aegon spoke about the road. As everyone departed, Mystic Obscura, minus Max who headed to his room to find Farlane asleep on his sheets, took part in a drinking game, leaving them all drunken and disorientated. Adrie found Janak, telling him she would cure him tomorrow, while staggering all over the place, as he sent her to bed.

### **We're Family**

As Mystic Obscura re-convened, Ellywick presented the contract for the bar, which everyone but Arannis signed, as he wasn't allowed to step foot in the place after last time. As Eloithe told the cooks that there would be more guests; the cooks admitted Arannis had asked to prepare a feast for all of Hectors favorite foods, to which Eloithe and Ellywick teased him greatly. The group signed the contract before heading to dinner.

### **A Gift To A Chicken**

After dinner, everyone gathered together as Adrie cured Janak of the form Vibaem had cursed him with, revealing a beautiful young man, un-aged since his transformation. As Janak and Elison reconciled, the group, for once, were left with a peaceful, happy night, together, as a family.

But that happiness, would not last forever.

### **Why Didn't You Tell Me???**

Janak's happiness however did not last long, as Balasar accidentally blurted out about Vibaem in front of Janak, and it was quickly revealed what exactly Vibaem had been doing to the group that last few months. Janak stormed out furiously, as Elison was left attempting to pick up the pieces, despite being evidently annoyed himself.

### **I'm Blue, If I Was Green I Would Die.**

Heading into town, Arannis and Aegon eventually found a half sea elf, who was blue with incredible tattoos. Introducing herself as Lauria Darktow, she admitted she would do their tattoo's, if they allowed her to build a house and live on their lakehouse, much to the agreement of the pair, who stated they would speak with the rest of Mystic Obscura and confirm it.

### **On The Way To Hawk's Nest**

As Janak announced to the group; who had agreed to let the tattoo artist stay at the farm after Arannis and Aegon had spoken to her, that the book they needed regarding the Giant Oracle was in a place called Hawk's Nest, after the daughter of the Lord their took it out, the group bid their goodbyes and headed to Yartar, where they contacted the Harper agent in the Zhentarim run city, and waited 24 hours for the teleportation circle to be ready... because nothing would go wrong...

### **\*Record Scratch\* You're Probably Wondering How I Ended Up In This Position.**

As the night in Yartar progressed, most of Mystic Obscura headed out; with the exception of Eloithe and Ellywick, to The Golden Goose, a casino on a large river boat. Adrie and Balasar ate and danced the night away, while Aegon watched on, thinking about how he wished he could have someone to do that with. Arannis gambled while Max made sure he didn't do anything stupid, until they came across a member of the Xanathar's Guild, who tried to intimidate Arannis into losing. He failed... even if Arannis still lost the group over 3000 Gold. As the group returned, Arannis was berated by all of Mystic Obscura, but the elf merely laughed it off and headed to bed.

### **Welcome To Haw- Holy Fuck It's A Flying Bird Lion!!!**

The group arrived at Hawk's Nest, where the guards patrolled with giant flying hippogryphs. The group eventually gained access to the Lord of the town, who stated he would give them the book they needed, if they helped rescue some lock boxes that were stolen on the way for The Harpers to Sundabar. The group agreed, and headed off to save them.

### **Love In A Time Of War**

Mystic Obscura found and defeated the Fire Giants who had stolen the lockboxes, and headed back to Hawk's Nest to return them. Arannis, while carrying one with Max, asked Max whether he loved him. Max denied this, but Arannis saw through his deceptions, travelling quietly the rest of the way. Returning to Hawk's Nest, the group found it under assault from evil druids, but were picked up by Hippogryphs and taken to the Lord. He explained the leader of the group had kidnapped his youngest daughter, and begged them to get her back for him. Mystic Obscura agreed, heading out into the night.

### **Remembrance**

Tracking the group, they found the Druids, a vampire spawn and Helga, the vampire Arannis had met in Barovia over a year ago, in the tomb of Natalia Von Zarovich. After some taunting, a fight broke out, with Eloithe taking over a pack of wolves by using her blood, while declaring she was a Von Zarovich and this land was hers, and Helga escaping, but not before leaving behind a ring, that belonged to Natalia. The group stood in silence, the girl unharmed but alive, but not sure what exactly was happening.

### **Tyr Will Guide Us**

As the group led the girl away from the scene, they watched as she healed herself; admitting she was an aasimar of Tyr, and revealed that Helga hadn't taken her for any particular reason, just as an opportunity to lure Mystic Obscura to her even more so. Max admitted he was also a member of the church of Tyr, and that she must be very special, for Tyr to speak with her. Eloithe summarized she must be an aasimar.

### **His Name Was Oliver**

As the group camped that night; near Hawk's Nest but still a while away, Max and Arannis sat on watch as the two spoke quietly. Arannis handed Max a gold ring; stating it wasn't much in the way of paying him back, but he hoped it helped in some way. Max said they were even, and the two continued talking as Arannis brought up why Max didn't like cats. Max admitted he had a parrot called Oliver, who a neighbors cat murdered and Max has hated them ever since. Arannis understood, as Max when for a walk through the brush to check around camp. Arannis yelled after him that Oliver was a nice name.

### **Tenting**

As the group tented down, Adrie asked Max whose tent he would be in. Max stated he'd be staying in the one they bought after Hector joined them. Adrie stated that was ok, and went to ask Ellywick about swapping tents so she could stay with Balasar, but lost her nerve and left Ellywick very confused as she went.

### **The Big Book**

Returning the girl to her parents, Eloithe and Max inquired about the book, with Eloithe appearing happy that she could read anything, surprising Max. As the other daughter brought the book out, an old ancient tome with a chain and key, Aegon held the book as Eloithe opened it, and began to read it.

Learning about the history of the Giants, Eloithe learnt about how god of the giants, Annam The Allfather, had created Giants, who had been the first creatures upon Toril, until the Dragons entered the scene, and a great war that still technically rages on today began, although much less known due to both races having dwindled in recent years. It eventually, seemed to point to an area far North of Mirabar, in the spine of the world mountains, where the group would need to traverse through a harsh environment to reach the eye of the all father, an ancient power that could answer their questions.

The group agreed to contact Harshnagg, and head to Mirabar, awaiting the giant and buying the supplies they would need for such a dangerous journey up north.

### **The Wild North**

Arriving in Mirabar, the group found clothes (with Eloithe buying Arannis a fluffy giant jacket, as he had no money to buy his own.) and gear for their climb. Eventually; Harshnag arrived, and admitted he'd traversed the area before, not knowing that the eye was there, but that it was a vicious and cold land, filled with wolves, trolls and other monstrosities. Mystic Obscura headed North then, through cold and awful days as they were dragged through one of the harshest environments on Toril, eventually however, they found a giant doorway leading into the Eye of the All Father, where they found, they were not alone.

### **A Tense Agreement**

With Eloithe taking lead, they confronted the clan that were also at the Eye of the All Father, who were members of the Great Worm Tribe, a barbarian tribe who lived in the north, while their leader; Wormblood, rode a young white dragon. Eventually, speaking through a translator, the group learnt one of the leaders wives had got lost, and they required finding her. Mystic Obscura agreed to find her as long as the group waited here, and there was no violence to be had. The tribe agreed, and Harshnag waited with them, while the group entered the Eye of the All Father's main temple.

### **Aegon's Very Bad, Not Good, Awfully Unfortunate Day.**

Heading through temple, the group on their hunt for the girl found a portal that they suspected would take them to the Giant Oracle, who could answer their questions, but needed a giant to activate it. Deciding to find the girl first, so they could use Harshnag, the group searched the area, where they were attacked by a giant Rhemoraz, which swallowed Aegon whole, but he was rescued, only to be crushed a boulder later on, nearly knocking the whole party out. Eventually, however, the group found the girl cocooned in a spiders web, rescued her, defeated the giant spider who had taken her and returned her to the group.

### **They Can't Take You Away**

As the group returned the leaders wife to the Great Worm tribe, the tribe gave them a medallion from the leader Wormbloods neck and bid them farewell. As the group rested for the night, Harshnag now joining them before they opened the portal early the next day, Balasar identified the necklace to be one that should the wearer attune to it, it would shield them from scrying and divination magic. Eloithe immediately handed it to Ellywick, who seemed surprised and confused, before looking shocked as Eloithe told her that if she couldn't be found, the dark powers couldn't take her away to Barovia when the time came. Ellywick was visibly touched by this.

### **The Answer's You Seek**

As the group opened the portal, they entered and asked questions about the Giants. They learnt the storm king giant was missing, his court in disarray, that it was Amman the All Father himself who had broken the hierarchy to have the giant clans attempt to prove themselves to be worthy and to stir them into action, and that if they wished to stop the giants, they needed to collect the conchs from each chieftain, to gain access to the Storm Kings court, to learn what has gone wrong. However, Mystic Obscura would need to bring tributes to the All Father, in order to learn where each Chieftain was. The tributes, were under the ritual mounds of multiple tribes across the sword coast, including the Great Worm Tribe. Mystic Obscura were also confronted with the ghost of another Giant, who had been struck down by his cloud giant father, and asked to be avenged. The group agreed. As they headed out, Harshnag drew them a map of where each Tribal Burial Mound was, where they could locate the tributes to return to the All Father. Heading out, the group left Harshnag to defend the All Father's temple from any others who may wish to acquire information, while Mystic Obscura headed out into the frozen wilds, attempting to get back to civilization.

### **Out of the Giant Pan...**

Mystic Obscura found themselves getting coerced by huge figures in the snow, who trapped them on an icy ride. The figures were huge trolls, including one hugely deformed dire troll. However, as Mystic Obscura prepared for their last stand, they were rescued by swashbuckling pirate like individuals, who appeared from their air ship in the sky. Taken back up to the top of the ship, the group were introduced to the captain of the Red Dragon... members of the evil Cult of the Dragon.

### **Welcome Aboard**

As the group spoke with Delsephine; she informed them she was the captain of the Red Dragon, who's interest and Mystic Obscura's had aligned for the time. She had been sent here by Klauth, a ancient dragon who also wanted the balance restored, as Giants being on the rampage was good for no one, as well as the fact Blake Blackmoor, her former husband had asked her for her help. Mystic Obscura agreed to work with them, and plotted course for the Great Worm's clan to get the Tribute for the Eye of the All Father. As Max attempted to discern how the ship worked, the group got some rest, before heading out.

### **Restraint Is Key**

As they arrived at the clans location, guards noticed them, prompting Arannis to kill two of them before Eloithe yelled to show restraint. The two clashed after the battle, Arannis stating he was trying to protect them, while Eloithe stated he should remember these people are just defending their homes. As Arannis sulked, the rest of the group went over to the tribute, where Ellywick was asked by a shrine to kill the leader of the Great Worm tribe by a mystical voice. Mystic Obscura accepted the mission, but were attacked by four small creatures that looked like mini versions of the beast that had swallowed Aegon a few days before. The group survived, before taking the tribute back with them, carrying the giant effigy down the side of the mountain and back to the ship.

### **Apologies and Shenanigans**

As the group bunked together, they discussed their next plan, agreeing to try and find the Great Worm Leader and stop him. Arannis apologised, and Eloithe also admitted she understood why he did what he did. The group had a joke as Balasar admitted he could have possibly carried the giant effigy with telekinesis, with everyone laughing as Eloithe thought about making Aegon fly to fight the dragon with the Great Worm Leader. Eventually, they all headed to sleep, as Adrie tried and failed to contact Bird, who very pointedly ignored her, the next morning, they descended to the fight.

### **Do You Even Dragon Bro?**

After locating the Worm Blood Clan, the leader exploded telling the female shaman next to him he'd given them a chance. The Dragon roared at them, emitting it's icy breath as the group dived out of the way to avoid it. Arannis misty stepped past it, hitting the dragon with a blight before heading off to confront the Shaman. Adrie launched herself at the tribal warriors and berserkers, as she through an earthbind at the dragon, holding it on the ground as Aegon and Eloithe fought both the dragon and Wormblood. Ellywick dived between the sheets of snow as she rained arrows down on the tribesmen, with Balasar and Maximilian; who healed his party quickly, fought with other tribesmen. Eloithe managed to kill both the dragon and Wormblood, laughing that she'd taken Aegon's kills as Adrie threw up a wall of flame, scorching her enemies as Balasar sent lightning through the rest. Arannis and the Shaman fought for a moment, before Arannis used suggestion and had the woman stand down, but also shrugged off a sending spell as he couldn't communicate and fight at once. Ellywick ordered the shaman to go, lead the tribe to be something better, and not to return. Aegon was then contacted by the sending spell, with Janak revealing that Hector had grown darker over the recent weeks, and had finally snapped, killing Tabitha Longbottom and three farm hands, before leaving. Janak had his diary but couldn't read it, asking for the group to return home. Arannis seemed in denial at this, unable to comprehend it, but followed.

### **Love Is War**

Arriving back in Triboar quickly thanks to the Red Dragon Airship, the group arrived at Summervale Farm where they were not so warmly welcomed by Janak, who as he led them through the home, seemed to linger on a spot in the kitchen that suggested it was where Tabitha had died. He handed Arannis the diary, who read it in silence as he learnt Hector had become more and more erratic, hearing thoughts that weren't his, and acting aggressive towards both the halfings and surprisingly Ellywick. The diary ends stating he had to find a certain family in the town of Sunsway, near Baldur's Gate. Arannis seemed shocked by all this, explaining what he had read before the group took off directly. Adrie stated Arannis wasn't alone, but Arannis warned that he was always alone.

### **Promise Me**

As the group travelled, Max approached a silent Arannis and asked how he was. Arannis was quiet, but eventually opened up as he admitted to Max that if it came to a fight with Hector, he couldn't fight him, and asked Max if he could. Max didn't answer either way, but Arannis declared if Hector really was gone, he'd make those responsible pay.

### **Welcome To The First Day of The End of Your Life**

Arriving in Sunsway, the group eventually found the family they were looking for, only to realize that it was destroyed, covered in blood. As Arannis observed the explosive damage done, Ellywick found a diary admitting the house belonged to two older people, parents... of someone Hector was hunting. Someone in Neverwinter. Someone who Hector was hunting. Isolde.

### **A Neverwinter Story**

The group headed to Neverwinter, where they encountered Aegon's old rival One Eyed Walder, who gave them information regarding where Isolde lived. Finding her flat trashed, Arannis managed to convince one of her surviving roommates to speak, who explained Hector had arrived and taken her, killing one of their friends who tried to stop him. After finding Isolde's diary, she speaks of the Amber Temple and how she feels that she'll end up going back there. Adrie notes that's where Sehanine Moonbow warned her about, and it's probably where they need to go, to Barovia.

### **Welcome Home Lady Eloithe**

Travelling long and hard, the group finally arrive in Baorvia, and after confronting a werewolf pack for directions to the Amber Temple, they eventually arrived at such a place. Battling through traps and darkness, they eventually found a room full of crates, where Darathra, Zariel (Adrie's former mentor), Benjamin Phyland, Captain Blakemore and Rifu, one of the leaders of Last Light, who taunted them as they ran to find Hector. Arriving, Arannis and Hector spoke for a moment, with Hector revealing Strahd had latched on to his spirit upon his return, and that Elora hadn't done it maliciously, she just didn't know. With Strahd stating he'd be back soon, Arannis told Hector he loved him, before hasting Aegon as a huge fight descended upon the temple. Ellywick fought a Death Slaad, almost dying before Aegon saved her. Arannis and Aegon fought Hector/Strahd, while Adrie, Max and Balasar fought his elven warrior Rahadime. Eloithe flew through the battle healing where she could, before Arannis finally defeated Hector, and Max reviving Adrie, as Strahd fooled them all, releasing his spirit back into Barovia and returning him to life. Fleeing, the group escaped Barovia, and found themselves back home, with Barovia gone, vanquished back to the Dread Plane, leaving only the giant desert.

### **Journey Home**

As the group avoided Deserts and tried to come to terms with Hector's death, they planned their journey to the mounds, as they all slowly recovered. Arannis asked the Raven Queen to help him and let Hector live in peace. The Raven Queen responded, asking Arannis to become what his grandmother wouldn't, and when Arannis agreed, he was transformed from High Elf to Shadar Kai, and became a champion of hers, causing Ellywick to become angry, but she eventually forgave him as they promised to start over with each other. Adrie meanwhile finally spoke to Bird, but she offended him and he struck her, taking off 23 years from her life. Adrie was unsettled by Bird, but she accepted that they were pretty much done these days. The group were shocked and surprised by these changes to both Arannis and Adrie, but came to accept them.

### **The Mounds**

Travelling across Faerun, Mystic Obscura obtained the needed Mounds, with Eloithe and Max only clashing at one when they fought over whether to take the magical items at the mounds, with Eloithe eventually convincing them to let the dead's items rest, as they might not have been bad people. Eventually, after acquiring them all, the group continued on back to Mirabar, and the Eye of the All Father.

### **Fly You Fools**

Returning to the Eye of the All Father, Mystic Obscura found themselves with Harshnagg again, after battling Gnolls sent by Yeenoghu who had not forgotten their deal had been broken, and quickly got the locations of the Conches, to get to the Storm Kings Kingdom. Imryth arrived and then fought with Harshnagg, who sacrified himself to save Mystic Obscura, who fled and headed into the icy wilderness, where Imryth had destroyed the Red Dragon ship, and Mystic Obscura found no survivors, instead they hid in a cave, from Imryth before deciding their next plan of action. The Frost Giant's Lair.

### **The Innocence Of Youth**

While heading to Mirabar, to get to Neverwinter via Harper circle, Max prayed to Tyr for his youth back, and was granted it and a little extra, becoming around 25 as he felt rejuvenated, with many commenting on his personality, with only Arannis laughing that he didn't see a difference, annoying the cleric.

### **I Believe In You, Maximilian**

While in Mirabar, as everyone was separated doing the hustle and bustle, Max learnt that Parthinia had been in town only a few days ago, and that she headed somewhere west, near where she lives. As that happened, Eloithe was accosted by a refugee who gave her a ring, saying "One Good Deal For Another." and the ring embedded with the inscription, "I believe in you, Maximilian." Max eventually explained it was from his sister, and that the last time he had seen it, he had given it to Rose as part of their deal and that it was her calling it back in. Mystic Obscura agreed to have his back.

### **Aye Aye Captain**

The group eventually arrived in Neverwinter, where they contacted the Lords Alliance for a boat, and after meeting and convincing the lord, they gained access to a ship and crew that would take them up to Svardborg, where they would find the Frost Giant's conch.

### **Eloithe Loves Ships**

While on the ship, Eloithe struggled with the sea sickness and struggled with the hammocks and food, before eventually taking over the kitchen. Arannis and Max spoke about Max's deal, with Arannis assuring him he had his back, and that he liked his new look. The group eventually arrived in Aurilsberg.

### **A Kiss For The Future**

Having arrived in Aurilsberg, and learning that two Adult White Dragons were missing from the top of a mountain where they lived with an Ancient White, the group began learning where abouts Svardborg was, and got a general location for it. When Arannis punched a local for being racist, Max healed his hands before kissing Arannis and running off, leaving Arannis stunned.

### **The Good Old Days**

After a few drinks, with Arannis drinking a lot after the kiss, the group reminisced about their adventures together, as Eloithe jinxed Balasar, forcing him to be quiet, everyone raised their glasses and attempted to drink each other under the table, with Max winning a favor from anyone in the group. Ellywick fell asleep under the table as the night went out.

### **Arrival At Svardborg**

Arriving at Svardborg, Adrie flew as a bird high into the sky, spotting a massive crowd of barbarians and noting a saver passage. As the group left the boat, a warning of 36 hours before they had to be back, they headed up the outer ring of Svardborg and arrived in one of the longhouses. Elly headed in first, looking for the conch, but ended up finding a Adult White Dragon instead. As Mystic Obscura rushed to her aid, the dragon alerted to Giants and a huge fight broke out. Ellywick was caught in the crossfire of the dragons breath weapon, before being killed by the Adult White. Max attempted to revivify her mid battle, but the spell failed, and Elly was dead. Permanently.

### **Stolen Heart**

As the battle died down, Max killing the final giant as the other and the dragon were killed by Arannis, sorrow set in as Arannis cried over his dead best friend, telling her he was wrong and that she had stolen something that night, his heart. The group mourned as Aegon spotted the Giant leaders ship arriving. As Arannis looked down at Ellywick's hand, he found the dragon scale he'd used to save her life once before, returned her to him, except now, it was pure silver.

## **Relationships**

### **Adrie Ofandrus**

He respects her connection to nature and her dedication to religion. He feels that she is still not comfortable being completely open with the group and seeks to help her come out of her shell. He views her as a sweet innocent girl, still naive to the ways of the world. She has raw power that’s waiting to shine through. Max feels that he needs to get closer to help shape her future to be on the right path, even if that means crossing paths with her spirit guardian.

### **Aegon Loneblade**

He is without doubt the groups physically strongest member and Max can appreciate that. He knows that Aegon has his own sins to account for and Max's sense of justice draws him towards helping Aegon as best he can. As their time went on Max found that once you get to know him,he is far more sensitive and caring than you’d ever believe. Strong and brave, he’s learning to control his anger and that's for the best.

### **Arannis Galandal**

He dislikes how rude he can be towards people who he doesn't know and feels like he is still letting the past haunt his present. Deep down Max wants to help Arannis settle his demons of the past and become a better person. As their journey continued, while Max he still shows signs of being a child and has uncontrollable fits of sulking but his other side is coming out far more, a side that Max actually likes. He can be intelligent, cunning and protective of his friends. He finds himself wanting to spend time with that Arannis.

### **Lady Eloithe Mistborn**

Max feels that Eloithe is destined for great things. He is intrigued by her family and admires her beauty. Whilst the group sees her as the leader due to her family ties, Max sees her as the leader because of his great belief in her ability and her potential destiny. As time when on, Max has watched as she’s cast off her noble hood and embraced Lily to the fullest and Max loves it. Seeing her be so carefree is refreshing, she reminds Max a lot more of his sister now. He knows that she is going down a similar path RE: her sister, he needs to help her as best he can.

### **Ellywick "Plink" Hollyheart**

Max knows that she is a free spirit and likes to dabble in some less than honorable pastimes, Secretly Max really likes Plink but feels like he has a duty to be her guide to becoming a better person and helping her reach her potential. Max has learned that she’s not as troublesome as he thought, she has her moments and seeing her and Arannis’s friendship bloom is great to see. He doesn’t know what makes her tick but he’ll find out in time. She can handle herself but she can still get into trouble.

### **Myastan Balasar**

Another member who has suffered loss and seeks justice, Max is only too happy to help in anyway he can. Balasar may not look the strongest but Max knows him of his great strength and spell casting ability. He’s quiet and reserved. He knows that he should probably do more to connect with him on a personal level, he just hasn’t found the right moment. he’s going to be powerful. They could be good friends going forward, he needs a chance to get to know the Dragonborn better.

## **Trivia**

- Max follows justice almost to the T, although as his adventures have gone on, he has slowly started to see that things aren't always black and white.