Expedition Reports - First Campaign

In the ongoing quest for information, those travelling into the Realms of Ahlus are expected to make note of anything of particular interest upon their travels and report said findings back to Nelenet.

## (30/03/20) 3 WD, Jas-Greencrown

Expedition Members:

* Skuld Blackiron
* Umbrek
* Zareyl Arkenviir

Arriving at Nelenet's Tower, the three adventurers met with a clockwork-like construct, which invited them to venture to the surface and discover what lies below. Arriving in the Tundra, they ventured “south”, only to find their way west where they came across a broken conduit bridge where steam blasted from the ground and water fell from the sky. It was here that Steam Mephits floated from the geyser and floated before Skuld, who promptly swung his warhammer at it. With battle initiated, the mephits were taken down one by one, exploded and breathing piping hot steam on them all until they were eventually vanquished.

Venturing on, Skuld found a not so safe crag to make camp for the night, howls flowed and filled the winds as the party slept. Half the night passed with no occurrence, until Zareyl watched a deer emerge from the forest. Letting loose a crossbow bolt, the deer fell in the night and breakfast would await them in the morning. A wolf had the same idea as it lurked out and attempted to steal the deer away. A Winter Wolf then blinked into existence as he too tried to steal the carcass of the deer. Enraged, Zareyl ordered her companions to slay the creatures and save her breakfast. A hardy creature, backed up by two lesser wolves as they bore down on the party with heavy scrapes and bruises left upon them, they were eventually beaten back and slain with more rations to serve and pelts to be made. Heading south, they came across a frozen lake with a polar bear feasting upon a carcass. Sending Umbrek to scout ahead with the blessing of Lolth, he stumbled upon two Goliath scouts who were hunting the polar bear. Making a bargain with the scouts, they agreed to a game. Whoever dealt the finishing blow would keep the pelts of the bear for their own. A close call, as the bear almost took Skuld down with a single bite, it was a Goliath hunter that dealt the finishing blow, but Skuld promptly swung at the carcass as it fell on top of him with Zareyl claiming it to be the finishing blow. Agreeing not to argue over such things, the party followed the Goliaths back to their village, where they shared goats milk and old wine, where they shared stories of their hunt and impressed the Goliaths with their winter wolf pelt.

A successful couple of days in the tundra, with new friends made.

## (15/04/20) 3WD, Halla-Greencrown

Expedition Members:

* Otto von Hammerstark
* Siebern Kuiper
* Umbrek
* Wren

Assisted by:

* Loch (NPC)

After arriving in Nelenet's Tower after a rough initial transition, the group of 5 adventurers met with a clockwork entity which directed them to explore the new continent in pursuit of Waystones. By traveling through a portal, the party found itself in a dry landscape surrounded by hills to the east. The group began traveling south-east in pursuit of their goal, the Tomb of Khitros the Hallowed. After traveling for a period of time, the party encountered a local by the name of Shukt-thra in the midst of his hunt for the Kruthiks, burrowing creatures which travel in packs. The creatures engaged the party as we established contact, resulting in the death of 4 young Kruthiks and 3 adults of the same species. Umbrek, ever excited to make friends, assist Shukt-thra in his butchering of the beasts, while Siebern retrieved Shukt-thra’s name and the presumed name of his home, Darajan. After a short rest, the party continued their exploration as temperatures soared. The incredible heat was unlike that reported from the last expedition, bringing into doubt the state of flux in the environment in this new world. During their travels, Loch managed to discern that the presumed large structures to the south west were in fact a massive bone field, filled with monstrous corpses and remains. Despite this, the party continued forward. The party was able to discover a camping sight in view of the temple, before bedding down for an uneventful night’s rest. Upon awakening, the party trekked forward and reached the temple during the early morning. The doors to the temple were initially closed, but through clever problem solving to shift the direction of the sunlight through use of a magical lense, the party was able to enter the temple.

Upon entering the temple, the party found a series of decaying corpses bowing towards a mural on the wall. After maneuvering through a series of traps, including falling sands and spears, the party was able to complete a piece of the puzzle and direct the sunlight from the outside into the temple and then into the ceiling of the temple. After exploring the first floor, Siebern retrieved the last piece necessary for the puzzle, yet Wren released a number of creatures made of sand which engaged the party. After a quick fight, the party was able to eliminate the three creatures, before completing the puzzle and revealing a staircase into the heart of the temple. Approaching the final chamber, Siebern detected necromancy magic, but the party was too slow to react before Khitros was reanimated and engaged the party. After a hard fought battle between Khitros, the party and a number of minor minions, including a skeleton and swarms of beetles, victory over the undead was assured.

The party finished clearing the tomb of loot, before returning to the Waymark without issue.

## (21/04/20) 3WD, Halla-Greencrown

Expedition Members:

* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Siebern Kuiper
* Umbrek
* Wren
* Fonteyne Pinewoods

Meeting Fonteyne Pinewoods after his arrival from the Nelenet. The party made their way out into the sweltering hot desert, much to the dismay of the Drow Priestess Zareyl. Heading for the Bone Fields, Fonteyne notes that the vibe of the way forward seems good and clear. As the sun rose higher, the heart soared more greatly as the day passed on. Soon enough, the party arrived at the bone field, a field of scattered bleached rib cages. Finding an oasis in the distance, the party ventured forth where the found drinking at the pool, four strange shaped horses with humps on their backs. Zareyl, suggesting that they would make excellent creatures for carrying their wares, was supported by Fonteyne as he attempted to control the camel. Antics ensued as they failed over and over until the camels started to fight back. Wren drew first blood as he blasted a camel with a fire bolt, Zareyl following suit after a camel attacked her and he hacked at it with her scimitar, felling the beast. With a clever sleep spell, one camel was successfully captured by Siebern, whilst Fonteyne was eventually able to control his camel, with the aid of Siebern’s dunamancy magic. At the end of shit show, Umbrek revealed that he could speak to animals.

In the night, Fonteyne and Wren played noughts and crosses. Umbrek had an uneventful watch. Whilst Zareyl attempted to sneak up on Wren and place him in manacles and drop him at the bottom of the oasis. Unfortunately, Wren awoke as Zareyl stood above him with manacles in hand. Making no secret, Zareyl plainly admitted she planned to drown him, before wishing him a pleasant sleep and leaving him to rest. A short while later, Zareyl approached Wren again, having filled an empty tinderbox with warm water from the oasis and placing the sorcerer’s hand within it, causing him to urinate himself. Later in Zareyl’s watch, a hoard of hyenas lurched upon the camel corpses that were left out. Making no sound, Zareyl conjured a dancing light humanoid in an attempt to scare them away, firing her light crossbow from the darkness where none could see her. Eventually, the party awoke as the hyenas grew louder with screams as they were flurried with crossbow bolts in the night. With the casting of light by Sierbern, a battle broke out between the party and hyenas. Giant vultures soon descended upon them as the battle drew on, but one by one they fell to the group until the sands settled leaving them alone once more around the oasis. Casting detect magic, Siebern discovered a hidden bundle at the bottom of the oasis, containing a set of bracers of archery, which would be later sold and split between the party.

## (27/04/20) 3WD, Carrast-Highreign

Expedition Members:

* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Siebern Kuiper
* Umbrek
* Wren
* Fonteyne Pinewoods
* Drogglet

Heading out north of Whittengrove, the party quickly stumbled upon a party of hobgoblins, attempting to communicate to them they had no success. In broken common they demand tribute and Zareyl agrees and offers Wren as tribute and begs him to look over him and assess his worth. As he did so, Zareyl flanked the hobgoblin leader and inflicted wounds upon him and ignited combat. Quickly, a fireball fell upon the party and took out both Wren and Drogglet. By the end of the first round they realized they were outmatched and many looked to leave as Rakrun grabbed Wren and stormed away, claiming him as tribute. In a last ditch effort, Zareyl cast ‘Charm Person’ on the leader and asked that he be released and that they went their separate ways. Following their leader into the forest, the hobgoblin martial artist Nozak stared Zareyl down with a burning intensity. Agreeing that they should move carefully, they followed the river north doing their best to hide their tracks and presence from any patrolling hobgoblins, as Zareyl pointed out that after an hour he may likely return and search for them.

Eventually reaching the bridge, they were met by a tree carefully placed across the way. Three humans called out with a ballista casually trained on the group as they approached. Demanding 50gp per person to cross, being convinced to drop their demands to 45gp, claiming they were collecting on behalf of Queen Lysiphoia of Chalimar Palace. Zareyl, not being one to be fleeced, told them they had no authority to do so and it was a free country (for now). The soldiers warned that they would have to rough them up if they refused and Zareyl goaded them to do and make the first move, inclining them to let loose a ballista bolt on Umbrek, narrowly missing. As the battle broke out, the seemingly normal humans turned quickly into their beast shapes as skin broke and fur appeared, revealing their jackelwere forms. Attempting to send many to sleep with their hypnotic gazes, the party pushed forwards as Umbrek swung his moon-touched sword to devastating effect, the Deep Gnome Drogglet sending poison darts and Gnome magic with debilitating effect and Siebern using his dunamancy magic to keep them in place as they attempted to flee. Zareyl took her first victim as she took a jackalwere by the name of Rovell as a prisoners back to Whittengrove, who later break and enter the servitude of the Arkenviir Den.

Searching the watchtower, the group would discover an abundance of loot, treasures and weapons, including an Fey-like artifact that had been dubbed the Periapt of Morgaelei.

*Loot: 17gp, 12sp, 26gp (Coin Purse), Letter from Rovell, A cart, Brass eyes, 6 giant boar tusks (60gp), 2 brown bear hides (36gp), Bronze-tipped glaive (25gp), Engraved bone dice (25gp), Painting of a pale stone castle topped with bronze domes (250gp), an ornate bronze lantern (15gp), A fanciful necklace carved from willow (Artifact), 5 scimitar (125gp), 2 longbows (50gp), 2 shields (20gp), Hunting trap (5gp), 16 Jackalwere eyes (160gp), 8lbs of Silver (40gp), 5lbs of Gold (250gp)*

## (29/04/20) 3WD, Ardor-Highreign

Expedition Members:

* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Umbrek †
* Wren †
* Fonteyne Pinewoods
* Drogglet †

Looking into the new tavern, Fonteyne's Fountain, drinks were supplied to both Zareyl and Wren on the house by the owner, Fonteyne. Wren would be invited to perform musically and with magic in the tavern for the local patrons. Upon discussion, Fonteyne revealed his surname to be Pinewoods, much to Wren’s dismay and shock as he noted their shared surname. Zareyl, sensing the unease in Wren, moved quickly to extract information from Wren and discover the lineage of the bastard warrior. Upon discovering that Fonteyne is the son of Wren, Zareyl immediately and subtly blackmailed him for a favour that she claimed she would later call upon.Gathering their supplies and camels, they step through the portal into the Echo Waymark to track down the tomb as noted in the Parchment of the Dustlords.

Heading south to the tomb, they come across an ogre howdah, carrying four goblins upon the construct backpack. Noting the black hand upon their armor and faces, Zareyl demanded they attack to weaken their clan. Wren, wanting to let them pass and hide, was overruled as Zareyl readied the others to attack from their hidden position. Fonteyne climbs the howdah mid battle and cleaves goblins in half, Zareyl dealing nonlethal damage to take the ogre down and claiming it as her prisoner, until she realised her manacles wouldn’t fit and so she slit its throat. As the goblin boss fled, javelins flew but missed until Zareyl came back around to charm the goblin and place him in manacles as a prisoner. Unfortunately it did not speak common the party did not speak goblinoid.

Pressing on, they found a camp outside the tomb, though the tents were empty. Moving into the catacombs beneath the cliff-face, they explored the initial tombs of the Dustlord finding reliefs that would tell a story of how to open the chamber doors by offering silt braziers and setting them alight, in tribute to the skeletal bat like creature emblazoned upon the door. As the doors opened, the party ventured on to find a group of cultists undergoing an infernal ritual as they sacrificed a beautiful lion and removed its heart as the party sprinted to stop them. The ritual a failure, the cultists were quickly dispatched with the final cultist being slain by a flying iron pot by Fonteyne. Following this, Fonteyne left as he felt poorly and slightly upset.

***The truth of what happened next may be taken with a grain of salt, as Zareyl was the only survivor to tell the tale.***

Pressing on, the glorious Drow matron leader inspired the party to investigate further as they uncovered great treasures that were quickly handed out to Wren, Umbrek and Drogglet, as material possession were of no use to one as serene and generous as Zareyl Arkenviir. Fighting off the shadows that lurked within, the mummies that followed and single-handedly disarming all of the traps to keep the party safe, Zareyl marched into the inner sanctum of Nakhelos the Sacrosanct. Zareyl knew that there was too great an evil within the chamber and urged the party to rethink their plans and to leave, but they persisted as their eyes were heavy with lust for wealth and glory. Not wanting to disappoint her companions, she followed them to their doom as Nakhelos the Sacrosanct himself rose his sarcophagus and immediately rose his undead servants from their slumber. Seeing they were outmatched, Zareyl called for the others to flee whilst she covered their escape, showing selflessness and heroism in the act. Unfortunately, the undead had flanked her companions leaving them surrounded. In her final moments in the tomb, she had to choose between dying with her great friends and fleeing to fight another day and speak of what had happened and warn Whittengrove of the undead terror that was Nakhelos.

Knowing there was nothing else she could do, she fled. Leaving behind her fallen companions, in Wren’s final moments he called out to let Fonteyne know his true name, Wren Pinewoods Howell, and that he was his father.

They also said that they wanted Zareyl to have all of their gold and she should look through their homes until she found it.

*Loot: Anorcorian Shield (Lost), Staff of the Python (Lost), Lots of trinkets and treasure (Lost), Minotaur skeleton skull (Lost), Silver Ewer (Lost), Bronze Glaive Head (Lost), Trinket (Lost), Electrum Pendant (Lost), Jewelled Earring (Lost).*

## (03/05/20) 3WD, Loghelt-Amberlight

Expedition Members:

* Andrul
* Doran
* Ronan
* Siebern Kuiper
* Skuld Blackiron

The Party set out from the Radiant waymark early in the day after 3 members were introduced to Nelenet and some minor introductions. The group of five, split between 2 veterans and 3 new members, struck out into the unknown jungle without much to guide them. Initially traveling west, the party encountered a herd of large blue birds with a hooked beat, referred to as Rockbeaks, fishing alongside the river. At first, the group was able to pass the river easily enough with Siebern simply jumping across and Skuld passing a rope to the wizard before disaster struck. Skuld lost his footing in the water and began to be swept down the river towards the Rockbeaks. Rather than risk being swept farther downhill or engaging the Rockbeaks, Skuld swelled up to a massive size, stepping through the river and scarring away to Rockbeaks. Once the birds had fled, Skuld proceeded to ferry the remaining party across the river. After their encounter with the Rockbeaks, the party continued to travel through the jungle, though not in the correct direction. Spending over four hours traveling south instead of west, the party found themselves solidly lost within the jungle. Andrul, in a moment of inspiration, decided to speak to a bug to point them in the correct direction. After receiving directions pointing towards the north-west, the party continued on their journey for another few hours before settling down for the night. The watches progressed without issue for the first few hours before they were attacked by multiple large Wolf Spiders. After a short, fierce battle, the Wolf Spiders were defeated and the party was able to complete their rest before setting out in the morning.

Continuing their journey towards the Glass road with Ronan leading the way. Leading the party to a tree providing fruit for the day, the group travels into a valley alongside a river and eventually discovers the glass road. Upon reaching the road, Sibern begins casting Identify on the road, while Andrul flies above to get a better point of view. From his perspective, the road seems to shimmer as the road continues along the valley before disappearing into the canopy. Sibern was able to detect a number of magical auras, but sadly was unable to determine the exact magical essence of the road. The material of the road did not appear to be inherently magical, but seemed to draw it from somewhere. Thus, the group began to follow the road through the jungle. Descending into a valley, the group encountered a small group of kobolds attempting to mine the road itself. After bartering with the Kobolds for a small piece of the road, the party learns of a “Maker” who travels through the area creating the road as they move. The Maker is apparently quite large and shiny, moving and building as they please. The group observes a statue overlooking the road depicting some forgotten god and a few more Kobolds overlooking the workers. After multiple attempts to discern the nature of the statue, Sibern detects a magical artifact in the hands of one of the more distinctive Kobolds. Instead of engaging in direct combat with the Kobolds, the party decides to steal the magical item before heading on their way. Despite a serious blunder by Siebern, the Kobolds appear none the wiser as the group steals the magical ring and the group continues on their mission following the road, encountering a number of Kobolds along the way.

After following the road for another few hours, the road led the group to a pool filled with magical energy. The road itself led into the pool, which was surrounded by dancing lights and magical energy. A Kobold corpse sits alongside the pool, beaten and bloodied with a blank look in their eyes surrounded by lights. Within the pool, Siebern detects a void of magical energy and the group dives into the pool to investigate. A swirling column of light rises from the pool, stunning Skuld and revealing a massive Flail Snail which emits a blinding light across the pool. The Flail Snail engages the party, bringing forth its allies in 2 large and one massive frog. A fierce battle ensued, with the Flail Snail taking multiple attacks with its flails while its allies harried the party from the sides. Skuld, swelling up to a massive size engaged in a fierce duel with the giant toad, while the rest of the party was left to deal with the Snail and smaller frogs. The Flail Snail fell first, followed by the Giant Toad, then the Giant Frogs. After solidly looting the area and taking stock of their situation, the group decides to travel back to the waymark. Sadly, it would not be a peaceful journey.

Midway through their journey, as the darkness seems to cling to a stumbling mass of bones and fur which rushes at the party. Skuld grows the face of the creature as the party jumps into action to defeat this skeleton. Quickly into the battle, the party realizes the creatures has the ability to regenerate and appears resistant to necrotic, but that is quickly shut down through the use of radiant magic and the spell “Chill Touch.” Through a series of devastating attacks from the massive Skuld, Ronan and Duran, the creature is quickly dispatched before melting into the dirt as mushrooms. Disturbed by the attack of the creature, the party chooses to march through the night to return to the waymark.

*Loot: 2x Simple Poison (1d6), Vial of Acid, Chunks of “Glass” Road(300gp), Ring of Hornets(500gp), Broken Shell of Flail Snail(1000gp), Hide of Giant Toad (10gp)*

## (05/05/20) 3WD, Glede-Amberlight

Expedition Members:

* Zareyl
* Skuld
* Doran
* Fonteyne
* Naldri
* Siebern

The day started with Zareyl removing a curse that had been gifted upon her by the Coronet of Khitros, upon her success she immediately sold the Coronet to the magic shop.

The town unveiled their new fighting pit, and new arrivals and gamekeepers. Rubble the Shifter, Gina and Thynum. With Nalasar the Dragonborn overseeing the new addition.

Fonteyne’s house had oddly grown new trees and bushes from nowhere. Upon closer inspection, the tree awakened and attacked Fonteyne. With the party rounding up and the arrival of wide Skuld, the party were able to dispatch them. The Wood-Woad spoke in Sylvan to Siebern saying that Fonteyne had defiled their earth. A short rest at the tavern over drinks and the party head out to reclaim the lost treasures at the southern tomb in the bone fields.

The party would be attacked by a pack of Kruthiks in the desert, a difficult battle in which the creatures burrowed under their feet to attack with devastinf effect. But in the end, they were no match for the adventurers. Arriving at the Oasis, they were I disturbed in the night, save for being greeted by a giant lizard in the night.

The next morning they their way into the tomb, but not before noting the disappearance of the tents that were pitched outside. Ghasts and ghouls lived within, feasting upon the corpses left by the cultists from the prior visit. Once more, the party made short work of them. But it was not over as a Carrion crawler lurked deeper and attacked the party, despite their defensive position at the the hallway trips which the crawler was able to avoid by crawling upon the walls.

After a another rest, the party moved on through the tomb, circumventing the traps as best they could until they reached the inner sanctum. With some clever magic by Siebern, they were able to open the two closed chambers to find a wealth of treasure and a disassembled chariot.

Finally, the party went about removing the expensive looking sarcophagus, only to find it to be a construct that quickly attacked the party with a magical effect that allowed it to move swiftly and attacked with great force. With excellent teamwork, and a combination of wide Skuld and magic, it eventually fell and the treasures within and that coffin itself was theirs to claim and sell upon dispelling the glyph of warding and raking the treasures hidden within. With an alchemy jug found, the town would never need to scout for water in the wilds again, as long as they held onto the magic item.

*Loot:*

* *4 doses of 2d4 Carrion Crawler poison (DC13PAR)*
* *Dismantled chariot*
* *Anacornian Shield*
* *Trinkets 195gp*
* *Notes and scrawlings*
* *Staff of the Python (2000gp)*
* *2000gp*
* *Sarcophagus 1200gp.*
* *Alchemy jug - For the town*
* *Nolzur’s Marvelous Pigments (200gp) - Fonteyne*
	+ ***Total Value of Items Found: 5445gp***

## (07/05/20) 3WD, Vluk-Amberlight

Expedition Members:

* Doran
* Fonteyne Howell
* Naldri
* Ronan
* Siebern Kuiper
* Skuld Blackiron
* Zareyl Arkenviir

With the sound of the approaching raiding party from the Legion of the Black Hand, the village of Whittengrove sprung into action to prepare for the assault. Splinting into teams to man the main gates to the north, another group to operate the ballista and others throughout town to act as watchmen and scouts, the expedition members had their numbers greatly augmented by a number of other individuals that called the town home. With traps of oil and retreat points set, they awaited the inevitable approach of Rakrun Roam's forces.

The attack would come from three directions with ogres pounding away at the gate to the north and wall to the east, whilst bugbears hammered with their morningstars against the northwestern gate. As Ogre Howdahs acted as bridges over the wall for goblins and hobgoblins alike, the northern gate shattered, prompting a facedown between the Ogre Battering Ram and Skuld, his size enlarged to the point that the duergar dwarfed the ogre. With the skillfully placed *Darkness* spell the hobgoblins behind were blinded momentarily, allowing for a continuation of the stand in the northern aspect of the settlement. Their attention would be taken away however as the wall on the eastern side with partially split apart, allowing more reinforcements with longbows to spill forth.

Through Ronan's ability to cast *Mending*, the northwestern gate would hold the longest of the three primarily entrypoints chosen by the Legion, but when it finally burst open, the cleric, Doran as well as the pitfighters Gina and Nalasar were all struck by a fireball cast by the mage previously encountered to the north of the settlement. With use of Phantasmal Killer Siebern managed to pacify the ogre wielding a ballista as a weapon, but the line of hobgoblins wielding longbows (even in spite of a *Slow* spell) manage to push the defenders back. In this push by the Legion, Gina was surrounded and butchered and after many efforts to try and stave off the same fate for Doran, the Monk would find himself too at the recieving end of a morningstar.

The sudden crackle of lightning from near the Waymark Hall and the pitfighter Rubble arriving at the front-lines battered and bruised alerts the defenders to an unpleasant truth - Nozac is within the walls, accompanied by another thus far unseen threat. As the battle raged onwards with fireballs, spike growths and warped wells of gravity tearing at both sides, Rakrun Roam finally descends from above - gifted the power of flight by the hobgoblin devastator accompanying him. Attempting to grapple Zareyl, he moves to fly away but is grappled by Skuld and surrounded. Temporarily slept but awoken by the lick of flame hurled from the west, he tried repeatedly to make off with the drow, being wounded greviously in the process. Not even the fear inspired by Nozac's mask to grant the Hobgoblin Warlord a chance to escape, and the Iron Shadow is felled by *Vicious Mockery* from the lips of the bard Naldri.

Calls demanding surrender echo through the town.

Surrounded on all sides by bugbears, worgs, ogres and hobgoblins, the surviving residents refuse to throw down their arms - although not with words, but their actions. As Siebern casts *Pulse Wave* through the Warlord, killing him immediately, the battle rages on once more. Izum, the shop assistant at the Tethered Harness is torn to pieces by worgs as he tries to retreat, multiple other inhabitants are knocked unconscious in the combat but somehow they pull through by means of stalwart shields, mighty magics and deceptive duplications. Seeing the turning tide, the devastator and a solitary bugbear flee north to carry with them the death of the Warlord, leaving the last of the Legion to fall - either to blade or chains.

*Loot:*

* *Numerous weapons, pieces of armour and ammunition pillaged from the fallen Legion members*
* *Pipes of Haunting (3000gp)*
* *Wand of Burning Hands (250gp)*
* *Collection of Notes and Maps*
* *Necklace of jet and onyx shaped into five fingers (264gp)*
* *Orbbalure*

## (10/05/20) 3WD, Tarra-Amberlight

Expedition Members:

* Andrul
* Fonteyne Howell
* Glasfhlaith
* Ronan
* Siebern Kuiper
* Skuld Blackiron

After joining with the newly arrived Elf, Glasfhlaith, a large fey-like barbarian, the party sets off north into the cloud covered land. Heading north from Whittengrove, the party first stopped at the Woodry Bridge to investigate the former camp sight of the Jackalwares. After investigating the ruins and several awkward conversations regarding Lady Zareyl, the party continued on their journey towards the North-East with Ronan leading the way. During their exploration, the party discovers a number of potential locations, including a mushroom forest to the south-east, the potential for a lake towards the north and a farm in the far distance. Fonteyne, ever wary, invoked a “vibe-check” towards the mushroom forest receiving a quite poor omen towards the mushroom forest. Despite his hesitation, the party chose to continue onwards into the forest with bluster and confidence. After entering the mushroom forest, the group encounters a number of strange mushroom emanating spores. Moving forward without a fear, Skuld was the first to notice a type of mushroom native to the underdark, a shrieking mushroom yelling out a scream of alarm, causing the strange mushrooms to release a number of Husk Zombies. Surrounded on all sides, the party split up to engage the zombies independently. The battle was short and fierce, with the Husk Zombies releasing a number of spores upon destruction, while also jumping back into the fight when they appeared to be destroyed. After the battle, the party took a short rest before deciding on a path forward, choosing to travel deeper into the forest.

Approaching the center of the mushroom forest, the party encounters a tree surrounding a corpse, wearing leather armor and holding a sword bearing the symbol of Lysiphoia. Alongside the tree, the party encounters a number of shrieker mushrooms. After dealing with the first of the shriekers, the group unites to deal with the second shriker, yet botches the attack, leaving it alive with one hitpoint. Answering the cry of the awakened shrieker mushroom, a number of Husk Zombies began to assault the group from all sides. While the fight initially appeared to favor the party, 2 massive Fungal Brutes appear from the ground surrounding the group and immediately engage the party. Despite Fonteyne & Glasfhlaith not having the best of time, the party was able to defeat the Fungal Brutes in a series of destructive strikes. After dealing with the spore creatures, the party investigated the corpse inside the tree, but not finding anything particularly interesting. Rather than set up camp in the middle of the mushroom forest, the group decided to continue traveling north-east, before setting up camp beneath a massive bridge structure stretching across the continent. Midway through the night, the Ronan began to notice as rust started slowly overtaking his mace and armor. Alerting Siebern & Skuld, the trio ascertained the cause for the rust, fifteen feet below the ground. Grabbing Fonteyne’s shovel, Ronan immediately begins digging towards the source of the magic before encountering the source of the transmutation magic, Rust Monsters. Glasla, quick to notice the sound of combat, woke up and immediately decimated one of the creatures, while Skuld was able to quickly destroy the other.

Proceeding forward in the morning, the group easily continued on their path to the north-east. A few hours into their journey, the group encountered a number of humanoid figures along the road at a camp. Despite their attempts to negotiate a fee and the parties attempt to intimidate the so-called “toll-collectors”, negotiations quickly broke down and combat was initiated. While most of the guards went down quickly, the Paysans proved more of an annoyance. Healing themselves along with their allies for a major portion of the damage taken, the Paysans laughed in the face of danger while continuously healing any damage the party did. After dealing with the remaining Paysans, the group searched through the camp, reading a note addressed to the Quenn in Mosshill and planted a Black-Hand banner before traveling back to Whitengrove. On their return, Ronan noticed a large keep on a hill in the distance… a mossy hill. Despite this revelation, the group returned to Whitengrove without issue.

*Loot: Decorative Longsword, 4 Scimitars (18gp/e), Spear (7sp), 2-Man Tent, Sled, Crate of Fish, Coin Purse (225 gp), Letter to Zolgin*

## (11/05/20) 4WD, Gantul-Whiterose

Expedition Members:

* Glasfhlaith
* Naldri
* Ronan
* Gluth
* Zareyl Arkenviir

The day started with a confrontation between Glas and a new recruit to the fighting pits, an air genasi by the name of Murmer. Demanding coin, or a fight, a spar was decided upon in which Glasfhlaith was terribly beaten by Murmer and proclaimed as the undefeated champion.

Shortly after, Zareyl would discover that the cell doors to her prison had been rusted and broken, with those within freed. Knowing the power this had come from, she quickly investigated the Tethered Harness, only to find that Pele was nowhere to be seen, having left a day before. The Coronet gone with her. Wondering if this Pele was a spy and member of the Black Hand, she interrogated her hobgoblin servant to discover that their main base was Zrudralbar.

Eventually heading out of the Radiant Waymark, the party spotted an active volcano far to the west of waymark. Thinking little of it, the party continued heading North to follow the river to the rumoured mines. Hearing the sounds of a creature in distress. The party came across four Allosaurus attacking an Ankylosaurus. Seeing good sport and potential meals, the group quickly and expertly dispatched the four carnivores before allowing the wounded herbivore creature escape. They harvest what they could, including a dinosaur skull that would later hand on the walls in the Arken Den. This also brew a new idea, a coliseum for fighting dinosaurs, all Zareyl needed was a supply of dragon eggs. Continuing on, following the silty river, theparty eventually made camp. Disturbed in the night by a thick and oozing icker falling upon Zareyl’s readied hand, she noted the giggling creature high above that have dropped the adhesive upon her, sticking her hand to her arrow, much to her fury as she began to unleash a flurry of attack which all missed until she was able to paralyze the creature in place, with only the tar like residue keeping him in the trees. Trying to climb up and apprehend the trickster, Zaryel found herself stuck to the bark by the same sticky sap. Getting close, the creature broke free of its paralysis and the sticky ooze turned to slippery oil, sending Zareyl down the tree to be caught by her half-ogre henchman, Gluth.

Following the river west, the glass road that once stood had vanished, seemingly with the absence of the snails and their excrement. Eventually, the party followed the thickening silt until they discovered an old opening to a cave that required some heavy lifting to reveal. As the night came, watch took over as the some of the party spotted bioluminescent creatures within, filled with fire. Thinking them to be possibly fire elementals, the party entered cautiously when the morning came. Before the sun rose however, Glasfhlaith searched for ‘jungle ferrets’, with no luck and settled for telling his life story to a bug, before bursting into tears.

Inside the cave, the party discovered close to the entrance a body hanging upon a wall with a satchel containing an magical aura. The only thing between them and the bones was a silk like web. Thinking better of cutting the silk, Glasfhlaith decided to run into it and was immediately restrained and attacked by cave fishers. A close call for the wood elf, who was wounded from the battle, but they found a rotten journal which turned to ash, a glass sphere and intricate rope, alongside a silver pendant of a crescent moon.

Sneaking ahead, Zareyl spotted fire newt workers, miners in the cave. Counting a number of them, she informed the party and believed that they might not be a threat. Jumping into view of the creatures, she was wrong. Battle broke out and Glasfhlaith send his exploding flumphs before running away after falling unconscious and being picked up by Naldri. The party fought on bravely, with the spiritual guardians of the Lolth priestess doing devastating damage, before Naldri hypnotized the remaining creatures, allowing Gluth, Zareyl and Ronan to finish off the rest and imprison those who were incapacitated. Elsewhere in the cave, Glasfhlaith had fallen unconsconscious again after being attacked from above by a piercer.

Venturing further ahead into the cave, leaving the others behind, Zareyl came across a dead fey creature, a Korred, before spotting an unconscious Glasfhlaith on the floor. Standing over his body, she reluctantly healed him as he verged ever close to death with a single death saving throw away from his demise. Zareyl instantly berated him and warned him that she would slit his throat if he ever abandoned them again. A piercer then fell on Glasfhlaith and he fell unconscious again. Refusing to heal him again, Zareyl spared the dying and put him in manacles.

Continuing their investigations, Zareyl guided the party deeper into the caves where she had spotted lava formations. But before they had gotten close, a black pudding stirred from the ashy ground and immediately engulfed Zareyl. Plucking his mistress from the icker, Gluth dragged her away before being downed himself. A quick fire of spells and potions, and the party were able to flee the slow moving ooze. In the end, it was the manacled Glasfhlaith that dragged Zareyl to safety, repaying his debt to his saviour.

With a collection of diamonds, rubies, obsidian and prisoners, the party returned to Whittengrove with their new found treasures.

*Loot:*

* *Rope of Climbing (1000gp)*
* *Driftglobe (500gp)*
* *Silver Pendant (10gp)*
* *Pair of diamonds 100gp each*
* *Ruby 85gp*
* *7 scimitars 126gp*
* *Giant Strider*
* *Fire Newt blood (6 vials)*
* *50gp iron ore*
* *Ruby 150gp*
* *Obsidian gemstones 300gp*
* *600gp diamond*
* *Cave Fisher Filament (60ft.).*

## (13/05/20) 4WD, Onteer-Whiterose

Expedition Members:

* Glasfhlaith
* Naldri
* Ronan
* Siebern Kuiper

Leaving Whittengrove early in the morning without issue, the party spent their first day of the journey traveling along a familiar path without much issue. Passing the Woodry Bridge by mid-day and reaching the mushroom forest by the end of the evening. Choosing the rest rather than push forward, the group gathered inside Naldri’s Tiny Hut for the evening. Despite a number of Husk Zombies traveling around the Hut throughout the night, the party was able to have a peaceful and restful night’s watch. Upon waking from their slumber and a number of shenanigans regarding fairies & Changeling powers, the party began on their journey towards Mosshill. Upon arriving at Mosshill, the group had a brief discussion to decide upon their approach, before moving stealthily towards the fort. After approaching the fort, the party decided upon a deceptive approach towards the keep. Otto, changing his form into a nude woman, burst from the trees running towards the fort with an illusionary bear in pursuit. Attempting to trick the garrison into abandoning the fortress, Otto was able to deceive the guards into sending out one of their own to assist him(her?) in the face of the bear. Forcing the illusion to retreat, the garrison of the Mosshill were able to force the illusion to retreat and help Otto’s female form. Ever wary of bears in the forest, the two guards followed Otto deeper into the forest, straight into an ambush from the party. Killing the pair of guards without a sound, Otto and Bren immediately assumed the form of the two guards and began their infiltration of the fort.

After passing through the gates without issue, talking their way past a Paysan and observing a strange horse, the pair approached the leader of the camp Zolgin. Engaging him in conversation and deceiving him about what exactly happened in the forest, the dio were able to get Zolgin to explain the overall “situation in the north.” Facing a number of raids from the “to the north and apparently to the west, the Queen and her men are stretched thin from raids on all sides. Eager to further weaken the defenses of Mosshill, Otto was able to convince Zolgin to send himself, Bren and two Jackalwares back outside the fort to skin the bear. Leading the jackalweres outside the fort, one of them begins noticing a scent in the air and moves towards the rest of the party. Bren cast Friends upon the jackalwere in an attempt to prevent his investigation. Noticing his spellcasting, the other jackalwere moved to stop Bren and initiated combat.

Glas quickly put two slashes into one Jackalwere, quickly followed by a surge of gravitational energy killing one of the Jackalweres and crippling the other. Tan, quick on the uptake helped deal a finishing blow on the other alongside Glas. Quick to take advantage of the situation, Otto decried the rest of the party as traitors, while Bren pretended to just be another Paysan amongst many. Splitting up, the majority of the party moved forward towards a ridge against the palisade. After dealing with a number of guards who looked over the palisade, Siebern put his hand against the palisade and pushed it over in a burst of gravitational energy. Rushing into the gap, Glas immediately deals with another Paysan and swings at another. Finding themselves face to face with the boss of the compound, Zolgin. Slowing the knight down initially, Siebern directs Bren to charm the Drake and begins combatting the Knight. Naldri, invisible from stealthing around the forest, sunk past the bottleneck at the gate and began mocking the Knight, while Glas dealt with the remaining minions.

With two enemies remaining in their sight, one of which is charmed, the party moves forward to deal with Zolgin. Engaging in close combat, Glas began a brawl fest with Zolgrin, while Siebern, Naldri, Tan and Bren moved to support from the sides. Blasting him from all sides, Zolgin displayed a remarkable ability to heal and hurl rays of arcane fire in all directions. Charming Siebern, Zolgin forced him to flee while consistently healing through all attacks. Otto, in an attempt to infiltrate the camp from behind, tries to negotiate his way through the Paysan, but ends up fighting regardless. Back in the main piece of the action, Bren shoots Siebern in the back in an attempt to free him from the Eldritch Blast, leaving him on the ground, free from the charm, near death and quite fearful. Finally pushing back against Zolgin, the party was able to force him into a corner through significant spell casting from Naldri and brute force from Glas. Finally dealing with Zolgin, the remainder of the party turned to where Bren was being mauled by the Guard Drake. Through the quick actions of Naldri and savage strikes from Glas, the Guard Drake was destroyed and the battle fell quiet. Searching through the fortress, the party found a significant amount of supplies, while Glas encountered a Fey Foil which was brought into the fold of the Fairy Club. Without issue, the party returned.

## (19/05/20) 4WD, Otealt-Greencrown

Expedition Members:

* Glasfhlaith
* Naldri
* Siebern Kuiper
* Gluth
* Zareyl Arkenviir

The party left Whittengrove, considering the hiring of the battle medic, until Zaryel was informed he was from Fonteyne’s Forces and then opted to refuse his service… surely it wouldn’t come back to bite her?

Heading for the final tomb in the desert, the party headed north into the almost unnatural sandstorm that hindered their vision and ability to navigate the  deserts. With guidance from Lolth and aid from Siebern, Glasfhlaith lead the way into sandstorm to a cliff face the party needed to climb to reach their destination. It was there that Zareyl spotted orange orb shaped eggs that she took a great interest in, before the sands beneath her feet began to shift as a Tlincalliu rose and stabbed its stinger into her chest for an unfortunate amount of poisoning damage. Gluth and Glas took the front line in the battle, soaking up as much damage as they could as Zareyl, Siebern and Naldri supported from afar with the arcane. The fleeting battle would end with the fey barbarian slaying the last of the two creatures, slicing off its stinger. With the battle over, the party salvaged what they could from the fallen scorpion humanoids, with one success, Zareyl was able to extract the Tlincalli poison, but with the second attempt was careless and split the organ to her despair.

After a short rest, the party ventured further north through the sandstorms before stumbling upon two stones in the sands aheads, a clear bottleneck and potential ambush. Sneaking ahead with some success thanks to pass without a trace, before foolishly kicking a stone down the cliff face, alerting two mounted undead soldiers awaiting them in an ambush. With no ambush afoot from either side, battle was underway. Fighting well against the Anocorian soldiers, Gluth and Glath once more led the way with support from spiritual weapons, inspirations and faerie fire. A close call came for Gluth as he fell to the Anorcorians, but party eventually bested them, though at the cost of their health as the day was still young. The party continued on for another twelve miles, before making camp not 6 miles from the final tomb and their final destination.

The next day, swelteringly humid, the party pass through a shadowed valley towards the Ironfangs and the Zealous Tomb. Inside, piles of ash. Further in, inside the inner sanctum of the tomb, immovable daggers were placed atop suspicious looking tombs before they party opened the large sarcophagus, finding two Anorcorian soldiers within. The ashes seen prior would turn into dangerous will-o-wisps and join the battle against the undead soldiers. With no dust lord in sight, the party waged war against the minions that were left to protect its tomb. Graviturgy, shatters and radiant energy burst through the chamber as the undead crawled from piles of sand and rubble. Gluth and Glas once more to fend off the undead as the spellcasters supported from afar. Glas, invigorated by the rare healing of Zareyl, pulled a javelin from his side after losing his sword in battle to continue his fairy fueled rage. What seemed a close encounter with the odds stacked against them, the party backed themselves into a defensible corner to fight from and turned the battle around, slaying their enemies one by one.

One remaining tomb stayed closed, inside abjuration magic exuded but dispelled by Zareyl. Inside was a ring of the fallen dust lord, at least the party would assume. Greater research would be required upon their return to Whittengrove. With three Dust Lords free and wandering the lands, they would need to be dealt with before it's too late.

*Loot:*

* 36 Tlincalli Eggs
* Tlincalli Poison (4d6)
* Ring in the Zealous Tomb
* 5 longswords (50gp)
* 5 longbows (175gp)
* 5 Anorcorian Shields (250gp)
* Perfumes (55gp)

## (25/05/20) 4WD, Pinnul-Greencrown

Expedition Members:

* Fonteyne Howell
* Glasfhlaith †
* Naldri
* Ronan
* Siebern Kuiper

The group departs from Mosshill, the new canavessery north-east of Whittengrove, early in the morning without a sense of direction. While the party had an idea of the purpose, to meet with Queen Lysiphoia. Choosing to travel towards the farm in hope of discovering information about the location of her Palace. Upon their arrival, the party encountered a number of animated scarecrows & a large straw beast animated by foul necromancy. Through Siebern’s quick thinking and Glasfhlaith’s savage attacks, the scarecrows were dispatched quickly and a passage under the house was discovered. Venturing under the house, avoiding a series of traps, the party was able to discover a number of books and notes, surrounding a Eladrin corpse suspended in a tube. Investigating the room, the party discovered a bookcase covering a glyph of warding. Despite some initial hesitation, Glas was able to move the shelf through brute strength, absorbing the burst of necrotic energy in stride and revealing another chamber in the basement.

Discovering a chamber underneath the farmhouse, the party moved into a strange chamber holding a suspended body in a pool, brimming with necromantic energy. Searching the room, the party discovered a number of potions, tapestries and suspended creatures in vials. Despite initial observation, the group was unable to discover the nature of the pool and decided to travel onwards to the east. After a few hours of travel, the party encountered an ambushed caravan of slaughtered soldiers. While the bodies did not appear to have been dead for long, the supplies had been looted and the attackers disappeared, leaving only a number of wooden arrows and dead bodies in their wake. Traveling onwards, the party discovered another small hill fort along their path to the east. Approaching stealthily, the party was able to encounter a number of soldiers of Lysiphoia and established friendly relations. Agreeing to stay the night, the party was able to get a restful night’s sleep within the fort and a point in the right direction. Instead choosing to travel with the soldiers in a caravan towards the Palace, the party set out in the morning with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. After another peaceful day of travel, the party arrives at Chalimar Palace.

Upon making their way through the elaborate palace, the party made their way towards a central atrium, before being directed towards the Queen’s throne room. Entering the massive throne room, the party observed a man named Aleksandr delivering a report of expeditions into the Chittering Holt ot the Queen, while delivering a number of gemstones including a Wayfinder Stone**.** After Aleksandr finished his report and departed from the Throne room, the party approached the Queen’s dais to present their gifts. A gilded sword, an embroidered saddle, a painted shield, the tapestry found earlier in their adventure and the glamour-weave cloak. Establishing good relations, the party was able to convince the Queen of their good intentions by speaking of their skirmishes with the Black Legion and the Holt. After confirming their intention to travel to the wedding with more gifts and continue good trading relations with the Kingdom, the Queen dispatched her servant Zakhiti to help them with any tasks they wished to complete during their time in the Keep. Traveling to the library, the group was able to search through a number of maps and books, solving a number of questions and creating a number more. Regardless, the party accepted the Queen’s offer of hospitality before traveling along the highway traveling west on their way towards Mosshill. The peaceful travel sadly did not last, midway through the day the party encountered an ogre blocking the road. Almost before they could react, a bolt of chain lightning ripped through the party, immediately knocking Ronan unconscious and severely hurting Siebern and Fonteyne. The twang of longbows indicated the volley of arrows which ravaged the party, leaving Siebern near death and the rest of the party reeling. Organizing a retreat as quickly as possible, Siebern fled first in a blur of silver and black. Fonteyne followed swiftly, watching the Hobgoblin warlord approach the still struggling Glasfhlaith.

Despite putting up a valiant effort, the Elf was ripped limb from limb by Agruc Shred’s cruel magic, as he approached him and Ronan. Despite the grim situation, Ronan chose to charge the Hobgoblin mage, swinging his mace before disappearing in a clever trick of magic. Desperate for a chance to escape, Ronan reached out in a prayer to Gond and charmed both the Hobgoblin warlord and his Ogre servant. Escaping from a hail of arrows, Ronan met up with the party and continued to travel south towards Mosshill.

## (26/05/20) 4WD, Jas-Greencrown

* Fonteyne Howell
* Siebern Kuiper
* Gluth
* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Otto von Hammerstark
* Morennel Uthreloth

On the morn of Jas, Whittengrove was visited by servants of Queen Lysiphoia. With invitations in hand, they parlayed with Siebern before being invited to stay in Wren’s Lament for the night. All of Whittengrove would be invited to the wedding of the Queen and Duke.

Travelling south to the coast, the party passes the Undervine. Before arriving, Zareyl notably transforms into a flowery High Elf in a beautiful summer dress, who the human family seemed to recognize upon their arrival. At the winery, they are briefly welcomed and given a short rest, food and wine before venturing on.

Reaching a shipwreck, Koalinth’ and Sea Lions were seen scavenging across the small sandy island around the shipwreck. With some of the party wanting not to appear aggressive, they approached with the intent of being civil. Though Otto’s shape changing into the amphibian humanoids seemed to cause a tense uncertainty amongst the creatures, even more so as he mirrored their speech and movement. With the blessing of Lolth and an arrow firing against one of the creatures as they reached out for Ott’s coin purse. Battle broke out, which was short and sweet as the party quickly overwhelmed the sea creatures.

Following a short rest, the party found a tunnel leading down beneath the shipwreck. Diving in first, Fonteyne got stuck before being pushed free by Gluth. The others followed one by one, with varying degrees of success. Gluth, concerned and scared by the lack of light, made no attempt to stay quiet and let the others know, and drew the attention of further Koalinth to their location. One by one they ventured through to do battle with the seafolk.

Finding another tunnel beneath the cavern, the group found themselves in the lair of a fallen dragon. Stone statues reaching for the dragon’s treasure before Zareyl spots a stone creature appear from the water as a Tviatini Basilisk. A second appeared from the south to block their retreat. Gluth, attacking the basilisk head on nearly turned to stone as they fought the creatures in the caverns. With mirror image and sanctuary, Zareyl stood between the two basilisks with an aura of vitality radiating from her to heal the harmed. In the meantime, Fonteyne succumbed to petrification and turned to stone. A pulse wave from Siebern would hit one basilisk, which questioned the integrity of the cavern as rocks fell from the ceiling at the stone Foneteyne’s feet. With a final strike from Gluth, the last basilisk was destroyed.

Collecting together the hoard of the dead dragon, the party left stone Fonteyne behind.

13gp, Coral 50gp, Sovereign Glue, Rope Caster, Delver’s Deep, 900cp, 1100sp, 1400gp, 20pp, Brass Torc inlaid with polished steel (25gp), Silver Figurine (of a dwarf King) (75gp), Platinum belt buckle (100gp), Diamond (100gp), Rose Quartz (50gp), Blue Jasper (50gp), Chalcedony Talisman (75gp), 300lbs of dragon bones (700gp), Black Obsidian Skulls x3.

## (28/05/2020) 4WD, Halla-Greencrown

* Fonteyne Howell
* Siebern Kuiper
* Morennel Uthreloth

Setting out from Mosshill with their eyes set on Chittering Holt, the party of 6 strode confidently into the unknown. Traveling south, the party approaches the forest early in the morning without much cloud cover or wind. Choosing to continue with caution, Morennel sent forth his familiar Horace, yet was unable to see anything within the forest.

Despite their early success traveling into the forest, the party encountered a strange tree along their path with strange glowing gemstones for eyes. Despite attempting to retrieve the gemstones with mage hand and a familiar, the gems stood stubbornly resilient by dispelling the magic and destroying the familiar. Frustrated with the magic surrounding the tree, the party chose to attack it with a variety of magic, awakening the beast and revealing it to be an animated Tree. Surrounding the party a number of trees awakened alongside their master, throwing the party into a fierce battle. Battling with fire, steel and divine energy the party was able to quickly dispatch any potential threats within a few seconds, slaying the tree and its minions. Choosing the nurse their injuries before traveling forward, the party chose to sit and rest for close to an hour before traveling onwards deeper into the forest. As night approached, the party chose to bed down before traveling deeper into the forest. Midway through the night, Morennel began to notice a number of movements among the trees surrounding the camp, but before he could raise to alarm a number of arrows pierced his body. Quickly raising the alarm under the hail of arrows, the party charged into the darkness, lighting trees with fire to guide them. Dispatching two of the attackers swiftly while one escaping into the darkness, the party was able to resume their rest peacefully.

As morning approached, the party chose to adventure deeper into the forest in pursuit of the waystones. Despite getting lost initially, the party was able to follow the path of the Blue Fang into the forest and approach their camp. Siebern was able to establish good relations with the sentries of the Blue Fang, the party headed down into the depths of the cavern. Realizing that the mercenaries were retrieving the Wayfinder Stones, the party chose conflict over peace and slew the two sentries of the camp, while preparing an ambush for the remainder of the Blue Fangs. Midway through their preparations an apparent earthquake shook the area. Noises of despair and death shook the area, reaching the parties ambush. Quickly diving into the hole to figure out exactly what happened, the party came upon the remains of the Blue Fangs, finding a now empty chamber behind the wall in which the Wayfinder Stones had been placed - the small mound of dirt crested with a single black pebble now gone. Upon descending the steps, the party found a number of corpses laid around and an additional chamber in the dungeon. Choosing to evacuate the Waystones rather than delve deeper into the tombs, the party returned to Whittengrove without issue.

*Loot:*

*4x Wayfinder Stones, 3x Barrels of Ale (30gp), 3 Heavy Crossbows(35 gp/e), 3 Maces (5g/e), 2 Studded Leather (45/e)*

## (09/06/2020) 4WD, Glede-Amberlight

* Siebern Kuiper
* Morennel Uthreloth
* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Ronan
* Skuld Blackiron
* Xerxus

After Ronan presented Lady Zareyl with 10 ice arrows with the teeth of a winter wolf, talk was had in regards to the inheritance and legacy of Tohmos’ Trinkets. After which, heading out on a warm day into the jungles of Ahlus, looking for the mines once more and establishing a mine for Whittengrove. Following the river, the group would fall upon Ocelotl. With necrotic energy radiating from the jungle creature, Skuld would begin the attack before Zareyl used the holding webs of Lolth and striking it between the eyes with an arrow of the winter wolf to slay it.

As Barnabus took joy in pranking those on watch before two green kobolds arrived and spoke with Skuld telepathically. They spoke of sending a message to let them know who owned the jungle before turning into two green Slaads and attacking the party. Reacting quickly, Skuld beat on his shield to awake his mistress who immediately covered the Slaad in a paralyzing spider’s web. Xerxus followed up with a crown of madness on the second to force him to attack his ally. Tidal waves and faerie fire made short work of the first one. The second attempted to flee after Zareyl offered him a place at the Arken Den as an indentured servant. Refusing, it turned invisible and ran before faerie fire ruined its retreat to allow Skuld to bash its skull in.

The following day, the party marched through the jungles towards the mine. Finding themselves walking astray, they found themselves before a towering bridge like aqueducts running from north to south. Troglodytes would greet them as they entered before piling in towards the party but were expelled with ease from the group. Firing on stalactites upon the ceiling, the group ventured through the cave. Venturing south towards the lava, a stalagmite came to life as tentacles flew from it. A mighty challenge for the group to face a roper, made only more challenging by the prior black ooze, though affected by Siebern’s slowing spell. The roper caused chaos amongst the group, before Zareyl grabbed it by the eye sending necrotic damage surging through it as it slowly melted from stone to inorganic matter to the shock and horror of everyone. With tidal waves, the magnification of gravity and spiritual weapons, the two black puddings were destroyed.

Heading further in and following the streams of lava, rocks were broken as magmins and fire elementals flew out to attack the party. A sleeping fire giant then grew from his slumber and stood tall towering above Zareyl and swung with lethal damage at Xerxus. Unfazed and with no fear, Zareyl demanded the giant's submission and loyalty before blinking, mirror imaging and attacking it as it refused. Piling in with spells and attacks between blinking, Zareyl unleashed a great deal of damage with aid from tidal waves, acid arrows and webs from Morrenel. Eldritch blasts would be fired by Xerxus and pulse waved from Sierbern. As Zareyl prepared for her final and downing attack from the ethereal plane, Ronan struck the final blow to slay the creature, much to the anger of Zareyl.

Clearing out the remaining tunnels of the mine, with a handful of diamonds, gems and magic war pick, the party returned to Whittengrove with a new steady supply of diamonds. The Arken Den would eventually set up a property to protect the mine and a new starting point to venture further into the cave into either the volcano or the Underdark.

Items Found: Green Slaad Hide x2, Slaad Head, Potion of Greater Healing, Blue Spinnel (500gp), Diamond (1000gp), 50gp of gold ore, 100gp of silver ore, Magic Item, Jet x 3 (300gp), Quartz-Cairngorm x 8 (120gp), Diamond (100gp), Fire Giant’s Blood (6 vials of fire resistance, 600gp), 4 x Giant’s Toes (4gp each), 2 x Giant Eyes (100gp),

Total Value of Items Found: 1,785.96gp

## (16/06/2020) 4WD, Vluk-Amberlight

* Siebern Kuiper
* Morennel Uthreloth
* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Fonteyne Howell
* Skuld Blackiron
* Xerxus

Following the tunnel into the underdark, the party headed south through the dark tunnels. With manacles in hand, Zareyl assured the group they would do well to act as slaves. A clerical speech from the drow priestess, and the group were ready to enter. At least they thought that they were ready. Passing through the caverns, of which began to slowly exude a natural gas from a cavern but easily bypassed with the guidance of the underdarkers among them.

Faerzress poured from a geyser, bringing joy to the underdarkers for they might be close to underdark civilisation, until cloakers fell from the ceiling to wrap around Siebern and Zerxus, initiating battle between them. Fighting through the mirrored images of the cloakers, the group efficiently defeated the dwellers of the underdark.

Black pudding arrived in the night, following a disturbance upon Zareyl’s mind as something or someone attempted to scry upon her as she was on watch in the night. The slow sludge was little match for the party.

Diving deeper into the caverns, the party came across a holding chamber of dead lizardfolk and kobolds. Only one remained alive until a tadpole burst from its chest and its masters returned from deeper in the caverns as red and blue slaads descended upon the party. Retreating somewhat, with Morennel leaving a Tanarukk behind to doe battle alongside Skuld in the south as Siebern and Foteyne held the northern cavern with Zareyl and Morennel supporting from afar.

Things became tense as Xerxus attacked the summoned demon from the abyss, leading to Zareyl’s wrath and anger at attacking a prized creature of the Underdark. Warning not to disobey an order whilst under the ground of Ahlus, Fonteyne came to Xerxus’ defence to confront Zareyl and accuse her of being a dictator. Veiled threats and words were spit from lips before fizzling into an awkward silence for a short rest.

Veiled threats turned to anger at Fonteyne turned against the very democracy he proclaimed to desire as he abandoned the party in the underdark with Siebern following close behind. Venturing on in separate parties, it was the underdarkers and Xerxus that stumbled across an escaped dwarf slave in fear. Capturing the escapee, they returned from the direction they had come and marched on following the markings on the wall of a seemingly drow colony. Eventually, the party stumbled upon a mine with slaves, though no chains bound them, but instead they were controlled by the psionics of a mindwitness. Elsewhere, in Fonteyne and Siebern’s mad dash to escape, they stumbled upon quaggoths which quickly attacked the duo.

Miles apart, both parties were able to overcome their opponents. Upon their leave, an aberration entered the minds of Fonteyne and Siebern, where they were able to see a mass colony under the ward of a great mindflayer.

Items Found: 1lb of Ormu Moss, Cloaker Hide (Zareyl), Fire Lychen 4lbs, 6lbs of underdark grain, Slaad claws x 9 (45gp), Slaad hide,  160gp timbers, quaggoth hides, Dusk Dagger (Xerxus), 132gp gemstones (AD), 4 mindwitness eyes (enchantment)(AD), 2 tentacles (weapon)(AD),  aversion eyestalks (spell focus)(AD),  large mindwitness eye (shield(AD)).

## (18/06/2020) 4WD, Tarra-Amberlight

* Morennel Uthreloth
* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Fonteyne Howell
* Naldri
* Gluth
* Arnenne

Upon researching tomes and books in her search for Castle Jalzazhuss to hunt down the heretical Drow that fled the Underdark, she stumbled across the Distant Reverie, aptly similar to the Distant Nightmare as spoken by the Queen of Spiders. Believing there were secrets beneath the farmhouse that Fonteyne and Siebern and company had yet to discover. She knew there was a link between the Distant Reverie, the fate and future of Ahlus and the aberrations that lurked beneath the surface.

Upon their journeys east of Mosshill, they were ambushed by an Atral Chimera, three heads of a horned lion, a unicorn and an eagle, with a beautiful white hide, along with two other chimeras. Aided by the abyssal demon Tanarukk, they were able to slay the chimeras one by one, with new arrival Arnenne slaying the final chimera with an arrow through the skull of the lion head.

Arriving at the farmhouse, they found the hidden trap door leading beneath in Eldur’s hidden home. Stepping down towards the portal that leads deeper, Morennel attempted to dispel the magic but found himself transported to another plane and floating above a tree staring at Eldur, the experimenting scientist investing the Distant Reverie. A short chat later and Zareyl was able to seemingly dispel the magic of the arcane runes and find herself and the others in the dream-like realm before Eldur who slowly turned into a tar-like monster. Creatures entered through the cloud around them, possessing Gluth and turning him against his compatriots. Fonteyne fell time and time again, taking blows as the party kept him alive and fighting. Zareyl went toe to toe with Eldur until he ran to attack Morennel. Focusing their attacks on Eldur, they finally slayed the creature. When all was defeated, all that remained Morennel who found himself at peace with his new place.

Found within the tomb of Edrul, below the tar like liquid that enwrapped him, Zaryel dived down to find the Glass halo, one of the three artifacts mentioned within the Distant Reverie. The Queen of Spiders had sent her to the castle of Drow, but led her straight down a path towards the artifacts of the Distant Reverie. With their new artifacts of significant importance in hand, the party made their way back to Whittengrove.

On their journeys home, deep ditches within the ground filled with stones, reminiscent of the black pebble seen in the chamber during the expedition involving the Blue Fangs. As an earthquake shook the the ground beneath their feet, the party fell into the grappling dirt and stone as three elementals of stone erupted and attacked the party. With the aid of a Barlgura from the Abyss, the party slowly chipped away at the elemental. With the aid of Lolth, Amenne was polymorphed into a stegosaurus to do battle with the earth elementals. One fell, and then the barlgura followed, narrowing the attack and heightening the party’s chances of victory. A second fell as it loomed over Gluth following a gruesome one on one battle, as Zareyl’s spiritual weapons cleaved it in half. As the battle came to an end, Zareyl rushed to revive the Lolthite-named mastiff, Selda, after the Seldarine pantheon in tribute to her diety’s origin.

Loot: Atral Chimera Hide (200gp), Unicorn Horn (Naldri), Chimera Hide x 2 (70gp), Red Dragon Head (100gp), chimera firegland (potion of fire breathing, 300gp),

## (23/06/2020) 5WD, Gantul-Whiterose

* Morennel Uthreloth
* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Fonteyne Howell
* Siebern Kuiper
* Ronan
* Arnenne

Following a council meeting between the council of the Whittengrove on the Cornucopia, the party head out ot the Echo Waymark in search of the castle of non-believing Drow and the temple of the Rust Tempest.

Their first day of travel goes without issue as they head in the hills east of the waymark. As the sun began to fall in the hills, a mirage of Wren descended upon Fonteyne with his arms stretched out to attack. In the night a swirling ball of arcane energy attacked, taking down Arnenne immediately and pushing her to death's door. The party scrambling from their slumber and respective trances were able to push back the embodiment of a spell and keep Arnenne from succumbing to her wounds.

They party travelled further east until an undead purple worm burst through the dunes to attack, regurgitating zombies to join the fight. Fonteyne was swiftly swallowed by the worm and Siebern misty stepped inside the jaws of the monstrosity but was unable to find his ally within the creature’s belly. A Barlgura was summoned by Morrenel, then a second followed swiftly after to aid his Barglura brother in the fight. The purple worm continue the assault as Ronan was then swallowed. Not wanting to see devils outone, Xerxus opened a portal to the hells and lemures were summoned. Siebern, unable to find Fonteyne, turned into a mammoth to escape the belly of the purple worm.

Ronan, seeing things turning awry after being thrown out of the belly as a mammoth forced him up the gullet of the worm, immediately T

turned undead to send the zombies scrawling away and the purple worm burrowing beneath the sands. Zareyl then turned Siebern into a giant badger to burrow after Fonteyne as the party did battle against devils and demons as they turned against each other and their conjurers. Breaking concentration on polymorph, Siebern was able to dimension door himself and Fonteyne from the dunes and feather fall themselves down to safety.

Continuing east, descending towards the mountain and fissures in the dunes, the party were set upon by an Anorcorian Undead horde, six soldiers and six mounts, joined by feral gloamwings that soared in and out of battle. With Ronan turning into a giant spider and Arnenne being turned into a triceratops, they made short work of the creatures. Following a sapping of life from Xerxus on Zareyl, the fiendish warlock was banished by the cleric as punishment. To her disappointment, he returned a minute later.

The following day, they finally reached the fissures of the dunes. Just in time to see Ayep, Wren and Drogglet heading for a dark descending tunnel...

Loot: 6 Anocorian Shields, 6 Longswords, 6 Longbows (Scrap)

## (30/06/2020) 5WD, Onteer-Whiterose

* Morennel Uthreloth
* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Fonteyne Howell
* Siebern Kuiper
* Ronan
* Arnenne
* Xerxus
* Skuld Blackiron

Heading east from Camp Darude, the new caravansary for the inhabitants of Whittengrove, the party fell into the path of a sand elemental after a few hours of travel. Quickly attempting to engulf members of the party, the adventurers went about dispelling the sand monsters as quickly as they could. One, then two, three, four sand elementals attacked the party. Dust mephits would leap from the elementals as they took damage, making the battle all the more harrowing. But eventually they would be turned back to sand and immaterialised.

In the night, a bone devil would fall upon the party encampment, waking the group to battle once more. Demons versus devils ensued as Morennel summoned a Barlgura, which in turn summoned a second. In response, the devil summoned a second. Xerxus, seeing the will of Asmodeus, attacked the barlgura, leading to the Spider’s Grasp wrapping around him to hold him back by Zareyl. Eventually, both devils and demons were sent away back in their respective planes of existance.

Into the Temple of the Shadowsword, Mor led the way and loudly, bringing the ire of a Kruthik horde. A difficult encounter for most, in which a great deal of resources had been spent in trying to dispel them. During a short rest that followed, Xerxus disappeared without a word spoken. Further into the temple, the party found Pele and two hobgoblins melted, seemingly killed by a trap within the tomb - most notably however, the the coronet of Khitros nowhere to be found.

With Skuld arriving to reinforce form the Arken Den, the party went about searching for silt to fill urns with to open the chamber. But mid process, the spirit of Wren would haunt Fonteyne once more, urging him to go south… where they would find the silt, and Zareyl. In the end however, whilst Siebern dispersed the magic, the beckoning gesture still yielded the desired effect.

When the doors finally opened, they were greeted by Ayep, Wren and Drogglet. Chaos ensued as the undead rose with them to meet the adventurers' steel. A difficult skirmish, but manageable as the party seemed to be on the front foot as Ayep fell, until a hulking behemoth with a similarity to the fallen Umbrek awoke with its master, Nakhelos the Sacrosanct. With necrotic auras filling the chamber with devastating spells, it was Fonteyne who nearly fell with no chance of resurrection. The party fought on, long and hard until Nakhelos eventually retreated through a portal with Wren in toe.

Goading the others to join her, Zaryel passed through the portal to chase down Nakhelos, being greeted with a wave of attacks that were narrowly avoided. Followed by the others, Wren was paralysed and ripped to dust by Ronan in Direwolf form as the group descended on Nakhelos. Watching as the Dustlord destroyed the Wayfinder Stones from the wall with the use of a heart shaped artefact to channel his magics, the party tried everything to stop him. As they used the last of their resources, it was Nakhelos’ arrogance that fell him, as he stayed within the aura of Ronan’s spirit guardians, enough to destroy him.

Taking the remaining Wayfinder stone in hand, the party fled quickly from the underground chamber - finding it empty behind the seal beyond a pile of dust and a warped sword not dissimilar to that wielded by Wren after the development of his warlock powers. With but a glance away, the dust and the sword vanished, and with the gusting of a great wind, the chamber started to collapse.

With some treasure lost, but much more gained, the party departed - contented that the Dustlords had been defeated.

*Items Found: Citrine (50gp), Sand, Rocks, Novanite Armor, Heart of the Prakhutu, Ring of Ayep,  Sword Hilt, Scorpion Lasher, Amulet of Warding, Anorcorian Soldiers - Longswords x 8 (11gp each, 88gp) - Longbows x 8 (38gp each, 304gp) - Anorcorian Shield x 8 (50gp each, 400gp) - Arrows x 68 Anorcorian Vanguards - Greatsword x 2 (38gp each, 76gp) - Brozsium Armour x 2 (1125gp each, 2250gp) Nakhelos the Sacrosanct - Bronze-plated skull [(200gp, 15 DT) - Helmet of Dreadful Glaring, DC 11 Wisdom Save or frightened until the end of your next turn] - Eyes of the Sacrosanct x 2 [(2000gp, 30 DT) - Wand of Fear] - Mummy Dust x 5 [Magical Component] - Necklace of gemstones (carnelian, amber, zircon and turqoise) set into electrum (650gp) - Electrum and bronze bands x 8 (100gp each, 800gp) - Heart of the Prakhutu [Artifact] - Coronet of Khitros [Artifact] Ayep the Zealous - Electrum-lined khopeshes x 2 [1d6 piercing + 1d4 necrotic], (250gp each, 500gp) - Scorpion Lasher [Whip with additional 1d6 poison damage], (500gp) - Mummy Dust x 3 [Magical Component] - Ring of Ayep [Artifact], Kruthik Hive Lord & Kruthik Adults - Kruthik Hide x 6 [(1500gp, 15 DT) - Heavy Armour with Burrow Speed of 20 feet] - Vials of Acid x 4 (18gp each, 72gp) - Kruthik Legs x x 19 (5gp each, 95gp)*

## (07/07/20) 5WD, Pinnul-Greencrown

* Morennel Uthreloth
* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Fonteyne Howell
* Siebern Kuiper
* Naldri
* Gluth

On a pleasant day, the party began heading east from Mosshill towards the forests of the Chittering Holt. As they reached at edge of the forest, the ground began shake from a distant boom, not dissimilar to what the adventurers had experienced once before. With a lack of luck on their side, Zareyl guided the party into the forest with little success, finding themselves travelling in somewhat of a circle. The night fell quickly, with little land travelled by the party. In the night, somewhat harmless leaf creatures settled within their camp, attacking only when corned by Zareyl. Elsewhere, a moss covered fox strolled through camp as Morennel went on watch.

Venturing through the woods, the party stumbled upon a Rethamian Elite standing over a Duskhunter with blade in hand. Heading forth, disguised as a human female, Zareyl greeted the Rethamian with an illusory script of a bounty authorised by the Queen for the Holtian’s life. Demanding gold reward, Zareyl handed him 10gp before inflicting wounds upon him with devastating effect before Morennel finished the guard off. Speaking with the Holtian hunter, Yelken, they learnt they were too late to return the Periapt and their magic had faded from the forest. A captor of the Rethamian men, she spoke of how they had been hunted in their lands and forced to flee.

Following the coast, the party searched for the camp of Rethamians but found a dead camp with dead men. Swollen Stone. It was here that Zareyl spoke to Yelken ay depth about Cairhnn and his place in Ahlus. Cairhnn created Ahlus. The lord, the soil, the stone, each placed by his hand and by his design. Members of the Sixteen populated the world, created humanoid races. Cairhnn allowed it. Within the camp, a magic item found and a letter amongst the bodies.

> *Veldin,*
>
>

> *The Holt seems finally to be running out of reinforcements. While they once moved unseen, springing from towering trees and hidden lochs only to disappear into the gloom and shadows once more. Now when they run and we follow, we find them cowering. Their old tricks have failed them - now is the time to strike.*
>
>

> *Aleksandr*
>
>

Earth elementals then rose from the ground, including one of magnificent proportions, which was quickly banished by Zareyl as the party clashed with the two rocky elementals.

Heading on,. They searched for the fort encampment of the Holtans, only to find the banner of Rethamia. With the Holtan in chains, acting as a prisoner, Zareyl entered the keep of the Rethamians and entered discord with them, speaking of their orders form the queen to seek out the portal. With the help of disguise self, illusory script and silent image, Zareyl successfully tricked the Rethamians for enough time as Morennel, Gluth and Fonteyne ventured around the side for an ambush. Sending a message to Morennel, they began their ambush and created a distraction as the trap was sprung.  With ease, the party slaughtered everyone in the castle, leaving no prisoners and a smiling Drow priestess for their party’s corruption towards evil deeds.

After a short rest, the group headed down the tunnel beneath the keep to find the ruins of the Chittering Holt hideout. Trees growing beneath the ground, flora and insects decorated the ruins. Within the chamber the Duskhunter guided them to, the black stone remained emanating elemental magic. Dispelling the conjuration magic, the rock split and revealed a blue crystal held in the hands of the robed creature, a Core Spawn Seer, which summoned other crawling monstrosities to its aid. Gluth was the first to fall, followed by Fonteyne. A close battle, in which Gluth was lost and Fonteyne saved form the brink of death. The party were able to leave as victors with the spoils of treasure and books with them. With her last diamond, Zareyl pressed it into Gluth’s chest to revive him, noting that he owed her a 500gp diamond.

*Items Found: Plate Armor (1125gp), Greatsword (40gp), 5gp, 3sp, Petal Dancer Ward (Naldri), Quartz (100gp), Military Equipment (1200gp), Camp Items (26gp), Expensive Wine (Nimante Silver & Alizeaux Red (164gp)), Treachery and Sorrow: The Story of Count Hillen Daydraft (book), Sagas from the Time of the Second Gift, as told by Pimmo Reedfellow (book), The Curious Pasttimes of a Curious Peoples (book), Forgotten Truths from the Soil and Stone (book), 500gp of minted Rethemia coins, 700sp,*

## (15/07/20) 5WD, Jas-Highreign

* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Naldri
* Derecho Dan
* Null

Marching east of Camp DaRude, led by Zareyl into the dunes towards the Ironfang Mountains in search of the Drow settlement. Heading into the mountains, they stumbled upon two Ettins arguing over a stolen battleaxe across a canyon. The party opted to bypass and leave them to their business, until Zareyl intensified their argument with illusions of stolen weapons at feet and a third Ettin hollering at them in tandem with phantasmal forces from the Drow illusionist from the Arkenviir Legion, Meraxle. Before the Ettins had time to realise their confusion had been manipulated by the Priestess of Lolth, a few elementary spells finished off the remaining Ettin as the illusion Ettin roared in triumph.
Further into the mountains, a voice that was understood by all thundered out in the canyons. The multi-armed creature, with a mask in each hand, descended with wind wind spirit and attacked with decimating blows. Splitting forces, it was a close battle as the claws of many arms slashed through the party. Naldri fled shortly into the battle, escaping on her pegasus as the remaining members fought on as Nængyr floated through the mountains, much of the time in an invisible state. Long and hard fought, until the spirit guardians of the Priestess of Lolth pushed the entity to its limits until forced to flee. Refusing to let it escape as it flew into the skies, Zareyl dimension doored 150 feet in the skies, grabbing hold of Nængyr’s neck as her spirit guardians continued their attacks against the entity before Zareyl was grabbed and thrown down to the ground, crashing against the rocks, but the priestess was hardy enough to withstand the fall and was left cursing and screaming into the clouds after Nængyr as it fled.

Before the sun fell, Zareyl guided Marexle of the Arkenviir Legion away from camp to commune with Lolth, taking the life of the illusionist as a sacrifice to the Spider Queen. From the Queen, Zareyl learnt the name of the entity, the direction of the Drow castle and that they would never turn back to the Abyssal bitch again. Harsh words were exchanged when Naldri found the group’s encampment, veiled threats left lips and eyes of daggers stared down upon the Aasimar bard.

Moving south-east, with Naldri and Null riding the pegasus for a better vantage point, they came across four Cyclops and Thri-Keen prisoners. Seeking to free them from their captors, battle began but Null and Derecho found themselves out-matched and went down time and time again and dragged away as prisoners until Naldri caused fear to strike the hearts of one remaining cyclops and the other polymorphed into a snail.

With Castle Jalzazhuss spotted, the Arken Den set up a caravansary aptly named Nængyr’s Retreat a day’s march from Castle Jalzazhuss.

Loot: 6gp of tat, performer’s puppet

## (06/08/20) 5WD, Ardor-Highreign

* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Grace
* Arnenne Rilynn
* Zran Everwatch
* Exander Havenshade

Pushing east from Naengyr’s Retreat the latest expanse of the Arken Den into the dunes, the group would find their way to Castle Jalzazhuss without issue, guided by the capable survivalist, Arnnene. Finding it with ease, the group opted to venture around the castle’s lands to uncover much of the surrounding area.

As the first day came to a close the sun setting, a cloaked figure descended upon the group calling a ritual in infernal. Zareyl sent word to the creatures, calling of their intent as they sang, but received only words of warning in return. Taking the firey pellet from Morennel, she threw a fireball upon the cultists, mistakenly killing a drow prisoner they had intended to sacrifice.

Once Zareyl had shown her power with a radiant guiding bolt at the chain devil that stood by the cultists, the warlock quickly debilitated the cleric of Lolth by casting feeblemind upon her. From that point, Zaryel was unable to cast, communicate or function in any competent manner, as she went about drawing spiders in the sand as saliva fell from the corners of her lips.

The group took what treasures they could from the corpses and went about rest in the hope that Zareyl would find herself in time. Twice she tried to call to her god, and twice she denied her. The next morning, venturing for the Castle as Arnnene had been guided to do so by her own god, they came across travelling drow who sought to give them aid and safe passage to Castle Jalzazhuss. It was there that the party were introduced to Umrae the Matron Mother of Castle Jalzazhuss, whom restored Lady Zareyl’s mind once more. Tense discussions took place, with barbed words shared between Umrae and Zareyl. Eventually tensions would calm they ventured into a side room for supper and refreshments. It was here that Zareyl probed deeper to better understand the mindset of the unfaithful drow that had lost their way. The continued serenity of the Lady Umbrae only angered Zareyl further, but she knew better than to attack a Matron Mother in her own den. When word was spoke of the hunter, Umbrae knew little of the entity, for her memory had faded. And so Zareyl offered to heal her mind, as she did hers. Smugly, the Matron Mother accepted her offer, knowing that it would not work. But it was not greater restoration that Zareyl cast but modified her memory, as she went about informing her of her new alliance to the Arkenviir Den and how they would answer the call to take back the Underdark when the time came. Successful, Zareyl sat back in her seat filled with joy… before dissidence began in the group and they spoke out at Zareyl’s actions as they noted the change in the Matron Mother’s accord. Asking for a time alone, Zareyl explained that her actions were for the greater good, but they would not hear it and hatched a plan to deceive and have her killed for her actions.

As Zareyl searched the chambers of the Matron Mother, as Exander read books, as Morennel spoke with the people of the Den, as Zran walked the halls alone, Grace and Arnenne betrayed the Arken Den by sending word to the Matron Mother’s servants causing hell to break loose as Imria attempted to cast greater restoration on the matron mother only to be counterspelled by Morennel. Battle broke out with Grace turning on her party to attack Morennel as he attempted to flee, Exander would counterspell Morennel as he brought a Chasme into the castle in an attempt to send the drow and party to sleep and escape on its back. Elsewhere, hearing to battle raging, Zareyl dimension door’d out of the keep and fled back to Whittengrove, whilst Morennel was sent to the Abyss by the Matron Mother before Zran arrived to go out in a blaze of glory, before being sent to Acheron for eternal battle against dead orcs.

With the Arken Den gone from the castle, peace had settled and the remaining party members were free to leave.

During their time at Castle Jalzazhuss, the party were made aware of the following entities and their followers.

Cold Devourer - Ackmond the Aboleth

Foul Labyrinth  - The Crawling King

The Hunter - heralded by 7 beings, the Harbingers.

## (19/08/20) 5WD, Vluk-Amberlight

* Otto van der Velde VI
* Arnenne Rilynn
* Grace
* Siebern Kuiper
* Grognac
* Koravel

Adventure! Mystery! Lottalotl! Grey Trees that are apparently blue! EGG!

I followed people, they say they’re looking for a place in the south-east, something about a marsh and maybe the end of the world. I am not entirely sure, I wasn’t paying attention. The important thing is that H3NR1 went for his first combat test drive. Everything seems to be in order and she is working most excellently.

Found a tree, everyone lost their minds. I think they need professional help. Who obsessed over a tree? They said it was blue. I told them they were wrong. It was grey. Odd, but not odd. Today I found out I am colour blind. This explains a lot. I take specimen of the “blue” tree, turns out its not even a fucking tree. IDIOTS! This big centipede wakes up, understandably upset that I stuck a knife in its pooper. H3NR1 did his job, using her bulging metal biceps to grapple the big buggy boy and held it away from its master, me, Otto van der Velde VI. Blunderbuss malfunctioned and send me in my ass, missed the entire battle, not sure what happened next but it was dead when I got back up.

The elf said we should look inside the dead centipede, I thought about for half a second before taking turns with H3NR1 to look inside. The digestive esophagus was small, so I sent mini-invisi-h3nr1 in, HAHA! Big smarts. Found an clockwork earwig, very cool indeed. Lets me understand other languages and record things, recorded the cleric say something before checking if there was a recording, I am sure it wasn’t important and pivotal to the themes and story of this land.

We ventured further to the south-east, found a skeleton head man. They called him Alottalotl. Stupid name. I burnt his face and he died. Cleric took his hand. I wanted a finger. Cleric is a man-elf-child and threw the finger in the river. Jokes on him, I know how to swim.

Siebern made a big pink hand.

They call it the River Tvia. Not yet sure who *they* are.

Took a rest. Popped up my Itty-Bitty Cabana. H3NR1 reports that Kravavel has lost his mind. He destroyed the hand. IDIOT. Then spoke to his imaginary friend, the Keeper. Funny. I also have an imaginary friend called the Keeper. I think Kravavel is copying me. It makes me feel nice, but it’s also a little weird. Kravavel asked is the magic on Alottalotl was still working. I think Keeper said yes. He asked if he was putting the party in danger holding onto it. I think he said yes. Then destroyed the hand. Does this guy even *know* the keeper. IDIOT. Then he asked about his nap times and sleeping schedule and I lost interest.

Koral thinks he’s smart, thinks he can beat me at a game of secrets. I won. He lost. But he also didn’t play. So he didn’t even have a chance of winning. I think the Keeper hates him now. Understandable. Also said my dad is a bad artificer. I was offended. But I don’t know my father. Maybe Kravel knows my father. Maybe Kravel IS my father?! Kravel is a terrible artificer. This is too much. Am I an elf now? Maybe I am not from Thay, but from Fey. Is that how it works?

Alottalotl turns up alottalotl. Dad used spooky spirit skeletons. Didn’t work. At all. Worst artificer ever. Grogorognak did a lot of hitting with his hitty thing. Very strong. Very cool. Lost my Lotalotl finger. Fired it into Alottalotl’s eye. It was worth it until I realised the finger was gone. Bad day.

Siebern tried to sink H3NR1.

Found gorillas. Except they’re not gorillas. They had four arms. And there were four of them. And a big one. Definitely the big dick gorilla. Everyone panicked. Grogorax got hit a lot. He’s a big boy. Bigger boy when he turned into a T-Rex. Didn’t know he was a druid. Crazy. It wasn’t going well, so I looked at my watch and killed two gorillas. H3NR1 killed another one. He’s a goodboygirl.

They were fighting over a Wand of Wonder. Decided to get it on the way back.

Found a castle. Dad said I shouldn’t speak inside. Sippy said he spoke draconic and there were lizardfolk inside. We offered them food, they like food. Next time, I will bring them a book on farming and vegetation. Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Give a man a book about farming and vegetation and the lizardfolk has a blue magic cube and I want it. They said there is something underground and it scares them. Probably mindflayers. They’re scary. LOGIC. They told us we went the wrong way. Need to travel east to the Aayddayadayadayddayadaya wall. They said the wall protects the gems. Penance marches beyond the wall. We know where to go. Maybe.

Found a big egg on the way home.

Lizard King's name is Naklok.

Stuff we found: Clockwork Earwig, 30 Girallon teeth 5gp, 5 Girallon hides 75gp, 6 vial of Girallon Blood, Wand of Wonder.

## (31/08/20) 6WD, Gantul-Whiterose

* Aenarion Quelenneth Velenthir
* Null
* Otto van der Velde VI
* Ignatius Saurwind
* Naldri
* Arnenne Rilynn

[Accessing Memory File… LOADING... LOADING...]

[Initializing Report… LOADING… LOADING]

Setting out from Fort Arkenviir, the party dove deep into the jungle en route to Mount Durnach. Despite initial difficulties, the party encountered minimal resistance on their first day of travel. As night began to fall, the party reached the summit of a hill, peering out over the edge of the jungle in the distance.

[REST SEQUENCE HERE]

During the second day of travel, the party encountered a large “wasp” which spoke Common. The creature mentioned a foul city to the south, the Ender City, and claimed to have been created by Ilemer, the Golden Hand. The creature offered the party the opportunity to visit Culhuaca, the Crystal City, as long as they didn’t cause difficulties for their faith. After considering the encounter, Otto concluded the group had encountered a Couatl.

Choosing the push on closer to the volcano after dusk, the party encountered an ambush of mutated harpies along their path. Following a quick battle and Ignatius burning many with the light of the dawn, the party settled down for the night.

[REST SEQUENCE HERE]

In the morning, the party found themselves with another new companion in the form of an Elephant summoned by Otto’s Wand of Wonder. After negotiating with the summoned beast, the party was able to ride it for a time before they exited the jungle and dove into the depths of the mountains. Midway during the day, the party encountered a massive stone statue among the mountains. Choosing to investigate, the statue was revealed to be alive. Shrouded amongst a cloud of Stinking Gas created by the Wand of Wonder, the party fought a short but fierce battle, leaving the statue crumbling into dust. Taking a short rest, the party ventured into the volcano to continue their adventure.

Immediately after entering the volcano, the party spread out across the lava pool. Infernal runes were scattered across the cavern, yet at the party began to investigate, Otto tripped a trap and reveal a large number of devils that engaged the party. While quite numerous, they were easily dispatched as they party pushed deeper into the cavern.

After dispatching the devils, the party pushed deeper into the cave and encountered a number a Half-Dragons and a certain priest attempting to open a portal to Tiamat. Diving into action, the party fought their way through a number of dragonkin and closed the portal by dispelling the cursed magic. Taremon was revealed to be a blue abishai after dragging Otto into the lava. The two leaders of the ceremony, Taremon and Olzids, eventually fled, leaving the adventurers to dispatch their soldiers quickly. With the Half-Dragons dead and their leaders gone, the party was able to enjoy the fruits of the Red Dragon’s Horde.

## (12/09/20) 6WD, Otealt-Greencrown

* Hassk
* Ignatius Saurwind
* Liliore
* Naldri
* Reginald S. Augustine
* Ume
* Xerxus

Lily, Ume, Xerxus, Naldri, Hassk, Ignatius and Reginald all set off towards the manor house. Lily brings cookies, Ume offers a tea elemental and Xerxus asks for a devil. Lily leads the party.

The party heads into a valley, surrounded by banks and steep slopes on either side. Lily sees some sort of deer run past. The party thinks nothing of it and presses forward, before running into a Udaak.

The party bursts into action and hits it, but Lily casts Banishment and gets rid of the creature which turns out to be a demon from the abyss.

The party presses onwards, with Lily leading and finding the path. They pass by Hond’s Cave, noticing the smell and stench as they pass it by. Finally, the party push on before settling at the edge of the forest. They see little lights in the distance - the trees light up and glow, like embers.

First, Reginald takes a watch, followed by Hassk. Hassk sees some sort of moss moving up to the log. Hassk calls out to it to reveal a Spirit Fox. It looks at Hassk expectantly and Hassk has no idea what it wants. He concludes that it seems magical and pulls out a ration, a potion of healing, his merchant scale, his waterskin and a candle and flask of oil. He scatters them about and uses them to see what the fox wants.

It grabs hold of the waterskin and then pours the water into the scales, before it laps up the water. It is very smart. It hops over the log once it has finished and disappears.

The next watch is Ignatius. He sits at the edge of the Tiny Hut and eats a small cheese cube.

The final watch is done by Xerxus!

The next day is cloudy and raining. The party prepares for the day with a quick breakfast, tea, and prayers.

The party reach the manor house and find a flag and a notice on the door warning of a disease. Inside, the party find a lot of rotting cloths and bodies. Xerxus rushes to the back of the property and sets what appears to be a chapel on fire. The party thanks him for purging it.

Inside, there are bodies of hobgoblins scattered around. There is also black resin in the corridors.

Letters on the deceased appear to hint towards a marriage between the lord’s daughter.

Hassk discovers that the black resin is alive. They also find a locked chest, which opens to reveals some dice, a ribbon, gold and platinum.

Upon reaching the end of the corridor, the party finds a pile of bodies barricading a door, with black resin leaking underneath it. Ignatius kicks the door. He breaks it.

Away from the party, Reginald and Xerxus see some strange movements. Xerxus calls out for Jeremie or Tatiana, who were in the letters. It tries to fill Xerxus’ head but he resists.

The resin under the door with the rest of the party oozes under the door and attack.The Kaorti make their way back into the hallways and attack. The ghost like creatures are Hashalaq Quori.

A final letter is discovered, urging the young couple to return to the manor house. It is assumed that they did and brought whatever was ailing the city back with them, spreading the disease and killing them.

#### Treasure

* 1200gp
* 300sp
* +1 Longsword
* Onyx and Gold Dice (250gp)
* Dragonscale Ribbon inlaid with Bronze (150 gp)
* Platinum bar (400gp)
* Gold bars (750gp)
* Silver and gold ring (100gp)
* Earring (75gp diamond)
* Bronze ring with red gemstones (50gp)
* In the Name of the Eternal Minstrel (Book)
* Virric Liatumal: Extraordinary Scholar or Nepotistic Opportunist? (Book)
* Owlbear Snugglebeast
* Tatiana's Pendant
* 350gp of miscellaneous weapons/shields

## (14/10/20) 6WD, Halla-Highreign

* Siebern
* Hassk
* Ignatius
* Grace
* Ume

A crowd had gathered outside the temple of Asmodeus, seemingly upset about the activities of the temple scaring Ronan's adopted son Trele. Ume tried to calm the crowd, Ignatius took Trele to the shrine of Aita and Hassk tried to talk with the door guard and convince them to take their neighbours into consideration. Not impressed the guard simply closed the door. We made our way out of Viridell sseeking to investigate the giant Stone egg. The old man Siebern tried to teleport us, nearly teleported us into a wall but eventually we landed a bit off track but not too far away from our destination. With clear weather we headed north, Ume leading the way with Grace's help. We found a clearing with plants holding strange fruit which Hassk identified as having healing properties when made into tea. Ume, Hassk and Ignatius pick a few seeds to try and cultivate. We head onwards and find the large egg-like stone structure made of a pale stone with arching groves.

Close by the egg is an old abandoned tavern. Hassk breaks inside and Grace finds a lockbox containing a leather coin pouch and small semi precious stones. Grace casts commune with nature and divines that the egg containes a powerful entity. Hassk climbs the egg, finds little ontop. Ume speaks to the egg and small eye-like orbs appear around her and then phases inside the egg. Siebern casts transmute rock and turns part of the egg into mud, exposing an entrance. Inside is hollow with a series of chains all connected to a platform ontop of which rests a oval egg-shaped crystal around it a zone of silence. 3 people are suspended in chains, slighlty moving but putting no mind to our presence. Hassk uses message on one person and gets mentally transported to an icy village. Being janked out of his trance by Siebern. Ume accidently locks eyes with another and is transported to a battlefield which later turns out to have been a vision of the siege of iron. Ignatius locks eyes with the third and is transported to a city in the midst of a festival. On top of a crate is a Tabaxi which is identified as Seven Stars the author of In the Name of the Eternal Minstrel. Demons suddenly barrel down the streets but are banished by a group of heavily armoured mages. Deciding to see the third vision Hassk goes back to the first suspended person and is sent back to the icy village, he identifies the Symbol in the middle of the village as a runic symbol of Aita. Naengyr appears from the sky and slaughters the Goliaths in the village but leaves the others in panic.

Siebern tries to climb up to the core but falls. Hassk makes his way up, pulls his backpack over the crystal and ties a rope around the opening of the pack. With ignatius's help he pulls the crystal off it's pedestal. The 3 suspended people scream and turn to dust leaving 3 Quori. The eye-like lights appear again and coaless into a bug Quori which possesses Ume with one of the lights. Ume stuns Siebern, the 3 lesser Quori claw and sting but are easily dealt with. Ume and Ignatius are knocked unconcious by the Bug Quori. Hassk hides by pretending to be dead, Siebern and Grace hold the line against the formidable Bug Quori. Hassk brings back Ignatius whose magic recucitates the party. The creature retreats through the ground and everyone prepares for it's reappearance. Hassk recklessly goes for the bag with the crystal he had dropped earlier in the fight. He is attacked by the bug creature and is killed when his soul is taken, turned into one of the many eyes circling the creature. Siebern destroys the creature and Hassk is brought back to life. The party teleports back to Viridell.

## (18/10/20) 6WD, Carrast-Highreign

* Null
* Fawn
* Jimmy Crickets
* Grace
* Benes Voolno

Just as the expedition left, they noticed a commotion at the southern gate. A large group of townspeople was in the midst of expelling another person from the town for the crime of “stealing a toy from Trele.” After some minor investigation and the reveal of the loss of memories by the accused, the crowd was dispersed. The party set out from the expedition without issue from that point forward, reaching the Starhithe Rest caravansary by nightfall.

During the next day of travel, the party reached a graveyard who was tended by an old woman named Ori. The graveyard held a number of shrines and tombs to Tohmos, especially one large one for a dragon named Xorixthromlax and a number of shrines for the le Tonnelier family. As the party rested for the night, they were ambushed by a number of strange creatures called Howlers and a spellcaster covered in tattoos. After a short, fierce battle, the creatures were destroyed and the warlock slain.

On the 3rd day of travel, the party encountered a small hut midway through the day. As the party investigated, they found themselves surrounded by a massive horde of Gnolls led by Ignar Lockfang. Choosing to flee rather than fight after initial skirmishes, Benes created a portal in a nearby tree which the party fled through. After encountering the Gnolls, the party chose to travel south from their previous resting place, rather than risk running into the Gnolls in the west.

As the party continued south, Null spotted a tower of Iron to their west which triggered a quick series of memories for the construct. The party decided to follow those memories and headed west as the day came to a close. As they traveled, they encountered a number of Stone Giants which they dispatched quickly before moving on their way. The one item of significance among the Stone Giants was two Amulets which read “Keeper.”As they approached the foundry, they were met by a Chamberlain Model Cogheart. The Cogheart led them through the foundry, showing off a number of models as he believed them to be Imperial investors. Jimmy managed to convince the Chamberlain that the party was on an official mission from the Empire, despite the time difference. The party was able to convince the Chamberlain that they were to gain partial control of the facility, but needed to return at a later time to assume direct control once Null was suitably upgraded.

## (23/10/20) 6 WD, Ardor-Amberlight

* Siebern
* Grace
* Ume
* Ignatius
* Reginald
* Koravel

Setting off into the desert in search of another large Egg, the party's first day of travel passed by uneventfully. Reginald and Koravel guided them across the desert, though it appeared that the elf held some prejudice or animosity for his more animalistic companions. Spying the large Egg on the horizon, the party settled down for the night which once again passed by without issue.

The next day of travel did not follow on from the last, as the party elected to loop around the Egg and explore the surrounding area. After only a few hours, they were spotted and engaged upon by a pack of Tlincalli. Harried from afar, the Tlincalli lost most of their strength before reaching the party. Everything was fine until Ume was restrained and dragged into a Wall of Fire cast by Ignatius. She narrowly avoids dropping unconscious before the mousefolk is able to heal her. The last are finished by the spiritual guardians of Koravel and Reginald.

Closer inspection suggests that the Egg is guarded by a fort, occupied by the forces of the Black Hand. Following a lengthy discussion, Siebern polymorphs himself into a vulture which Naldri then turns invisible. He then scouts ahead, before returning with information on roughly how many foes were within and their disposition. Another lengthy debate followed, as Koravel and Siebern debated how best to enter the Egg and extract what they sought whilst Ignatius and Reginald argued for the total destruction of the Black hand's forces.

Ume has a tea break.

Reluctantly agreeing that the Black Hand were an ever present threat, Siebern creates a passage through the stone for the party to enter the encampment. The fighting begins shortly afterwards, with Ume and Koravel dispatching the lone hobgoblin devastator whilst the rest of the party engage from afar. Reginald is dealt a crippling blow by one hobgoblin in the service of Captain Flar Flare though, in return, Captain Hraz Harsh and his entire company are eliminated.

The party then takes to the walls, Koravel unleashing a Cloudkill upon a pack of goblins whilst the others deal with several ogre bolt launchers. Ruhkvaz Rage, the leader of the encampment, reveals themselves by unleashing a wall of fire. Siebern recalls that the hobgoblin's weapon was once wielded by the elvish warlock Wren, when he served the Storm of Rust.

Reginald and Ume advance northward, fighting against the hobgoblins of Captain Shar Shield, whilst the rest of the party are harassed by Ruhkvaz and his relentless berserkers. Siebern takes several heavy blows, though remains standing and unleashes the power of his robe to make a hasty retreat.

Shar falls to Reginald's hand, whilst Captain Craz Cruel is slowly crushed by Naldri's Arcane Hand, but Ruhkvaz's powers lay Siebern low. Ignatius strikes back, felling Flar Flare and his archers, before heading northward to aid his allies. A horde of goblins swarm forth from tunnels to join the battle in the north, overwhelming Reginald and Ume. Meanwhile Ruhkvaz's magic banishes Naldri and deals severe damage to several members of the party, the fight taking a turn for the worse.

Koravel attempts to help the party escape with a Word of Recall, but is thwarted by a vicious blow from Rage, as Siebern flitters in and out of consciousness with the aid of the clerics. A destructive wave hits most of the party but is nullified by Reginald's auras of warding and protection, forcing the boss away. Seeing his opportunity and thinking the battle lost, Koravel leaps from the battlements and merges into the stone of the floor.

At the darkest of hours, Siebern miraculously finds his second wind and stands before Ruhkvaz Rage. He dispatches most of the northen goblin horde with a powerful gravity sinkhole, then invites the warlord to attack him. But no blows come to pass as Ume delivers a stunning strike from behind that crucially breaks the hobgoblin's concentration.

Returning from her banishment, Naldri is quick to spring to the party's aid with healing magic. Revitalised, Reginald and Ignatius advance upon Ruhkvaz, cleaving into him with Dawnbringer and Stormwind, but even the champions of Aita struggle against the warlock of Rust. Twice more Ume manages to land stunning blows, overcoming even Ruhkvaz's impressive constitution, until eventually it is Reginald that lays the creature low . The few surviving goblins and ogres either flee or are themselves dispatched.

Regrettably, the Egg had been mostly looted already. A smaller Egg, similar to that recovered from the previous advanture, was recovered from Ruhkvaz's corpse. Though his weapon, Iron Thorn, was reclaimed by the Storm of Rust itself before the party's very eyes.

## (04/11/20) 6 WD, Glede-Amberlight

* Siebern
* Naldri
* Hassk
* Aenarion
* Ume
* Dramaturg

Before the party left Whittengrove, it was noticed that a large crowd had formed in the centre of the city. Investigation revealed that the figure at the centre of the crowd was Trele, and the people were celebrating his birthday with gifts and revelry. Some of the party offer gifts to the child, others give a performance, and Aenarion even deploys the Wand of Smiles to ensure that everyone is having a good time.

After the festivities eventually wind down, the party gathers up some mules to offer as food and then teleports to the Lizardmen camp. Greeted cordially by Naggog and his Blue Slaad, the Lizardman Chief agrees to Siebern's proposal that the party might spend the night at the camp and then head down into the Underdark beneath. Naldri deploys her magnificent mansion, within which the party can rest easily, whilst Hassk barters his wares with the other lizardmen. Aenarion and Dramaturg head out to explore the ruined castle, suggesting that it might once have been occupied by humans owing fealty to the Duchies of Tynd before falling into disrepair.

Awaking in the morning, the party descends into what they believe to be the Underdark whilst the lizardmen seal the door behind them. Greeted by a strange sight, various corpses and other creatures standing comatose around them, the party eventually decides to make sure the standing creatures are dead and begins to dispatch them one by one. Strange noises give the party pause for thought, but no threats come from the darkness, and eventually they decide to descend deeper into the pit and reach the Underdark proper.

Arriving at a vast lake that spans far beyond their vision, the party begins heading west around the southern bank. Trouble first arose when Hassk spotted a ravine ahead, and the party soon began to leap across in their own ways. Naldri fell foul of the terrain though, the edge giving way beneath her as she plummeted into the depths and nearly took Aenarion with her. As the rest of the group hastily ties rope together to go after her, the Aasimar reveals her wings and flies to freedom.

Pressing on further past the lake, hushed voices ahead alerted the party to an approaching patrol of Duergar. Attempts to hide were thwarted as the Duergar used their innate invisibility to ambush the party with a swarm of javelin attacks. After the initial surprise was over though, the tables swiftly turned as Naldri and Siebern unleashed powerful magic to charm and entangle many of the attackers. Hassk, Ume, and Aenarion dealt with those few lucky enough to resist the spells. Picking the Duergar clean revealed that they all bore an identical tattoo behind their left ear.

Winding back to the lakeside, the party continued on in the hopes of finding a place to settle down and rest. Fortune seemed to favour them when they spotted a tavern ahead, though nothing was ever so straightforward in the Underdark. Approaching warily, Hassk uses Comprehend Languages to read the name as 'The Flametongue Brewery' and Aenarion bursts inside only to be greeted by the stares of a throng of several dozen Duergar.

Casting Tongues, the ranger attempts to calm tensions and negotiates a tour of the brewery for himself and his companions. Studying the room, it quickly becomes apparent that all is not quite what meets the eye as the dwarves seem to all act in perfect unison and talk of their hidden master. Unperturbed, the party ventures into the depths of the tavern and finds only further oddities. These dwarves also bear the same tattoo as those the party had massacred earlier, and some were trapped in cruel devices that were fuelled by their own pain and suffering. After witnessing several rooms of such dwarves, their guide began to talk of making offerings to the secretive master. Thinking incorrectly that he might be talking of a shrine to this master, or perhaps not thinking at all, the party agreed to make some offerings and were led to an inner sanctum.

First to reveal itself was a Skull Lord, descending from the ceiling and seemingly incapacitated. Then came a Draegloth, followed by an Illithid, and last was a Spirit Naga. All trapped in a similar fashion, and on the verge of death. Only then did the mastermind reveal themselves, descending from the ceiling was a Beholder of impressive size and sporting no less than a dozen tentacles. Introducing themselves as Astraksica, or 'the Starlight Master', the aberration was quick to gloat of his accomplishments and equally quick to demand tribute from the party.

Hassk offered a bag of spices that he had recently traded from the lizardmen and Siebern offered his driftglobe, both accepted begrudgingly, and then the Beholder's gaze turned to Aenarion. As perplexed with the creature as it was with him, the Eladrin offered Astraksica something he valued greatly - an invitation to his Fairy Club. Whether generally curious or as part of a scheme far beyond the innocent ranger's wildest machinations, the Beholder agreed and spawned a Gazer that would travel back to the surface with the party. Utilising psionic magic far beyond the party, Astraksica implanted the Gazer within Aenarion's own mind, and was then satisfied.

Having received a minor magic item from Naldri, which was accepted with similar disinterest as other gifts, Ume made her own offering. An innocent cup of tea, accompanied by some berries that she had discovered on the previous expedition. After consuming the liquid, it's cup, and the berries, the Otterfolk suddenly found herself paralyzed as the party watched on with a mixture of confusion and horror. Querying Ume as to whether she had intentionally attempted to poison him or not, Astraksica then forcibly fed her one of the berries that she had previously offered. Fearing that overreacting might be rather detrimental to their health, the party watched on as Ume suffered the poisonous effect and fortunately survived.

Satisfied with the offerings, Astraksica's mood now changed. He tasked the party with the capture of one Cesgaross, the leader of a local Mindflayer colony, for he desired to add both him and his master's brain to his collection. Siebern attempts to take a small trinket, for use to teleport back to the tavern, but Astraksica - seeing now through Aenarion's eyes - warns the wizard of the innate Faerzress that protects his domain. Leaving behind the trinket, the party departs the Brewery and teleports back to civilisation with their minds mostly intact.

## (22/11/20) 6 WD, Tarra-Amberlight

* Bren
* Ronan
* Hassk
* Grace
* Ume
* Sílon
* Shrieker

The party set out from the Lotus Port heading north without issue for a number of miles. Midway through the first day of the trip, the party encountered a dam blocking the Lotus Run. As they investigated, Sílon noticed a number of barrels containing a mixture of pitch and a black substance. After experiencing the explosive nature of the trap first hand, Sílon detonated the remaining barrels and the party continued forward. During the first night, the party was ambushed by three Milfoil Stalkers, but they were dealt with quickly. After passing through the lake, the boat ran aground due to the wind which delayed travel for an hour. By the end of the third day, the party reached the end of the river and was forced to adapt or leave the boat.

Choosing to innovate rather than settle to lose the boat, Sílon charmed a number of Aurochs to fuel his ambition. Ronan, harnessing the power of Tohmos, equipped the boat with wheels and transformed the Keelboat to a mobile operating boat caravan. With this new technology, a weapon to surpass Agruc Shred, the party traveled across the grasslands at a breakneck speed. Midway through the journey, the party encountered a number of legionaries from the city of \_\_\_, who pointed them on their way with a warning about “The Hive.” A warning which would prove accurate after the Boatmobile was ambushed during the next day.

Upon arriving in the city, the party was approached by Konon who offered to guide them around the city for a small fee. Konon led the party throughout the city, pointing out monuments and answering their questions about this history and locations of Rydoon. The party spent a number of hours traveling and shopping across Rydoon, before venturing to Runes and Rods to meet Nikolaos.

The Runes and Rods was a wreck, items and potions strewn about the shop. As the party approached the storefront, Nikolaos welcomed them in graciously. After some bartering, the party began to purchase some items, but Bren noticed something odd about the shopkeeper. Utilizing his Witch Sight, Bren recognized the Exarch Thurkaervaeri under the disguise of Nikolaos. After some quick bantering between the Warlock and the disguised Exarch, the party left after making a number of deals with the former Dragon.

## (29/11/20) 7WD, Gantul Whiterose

* Bren
* Hassk
* Shrieker
* Asurak
* Fonteyne
* Andrul †
* Naldri

Naldri plays her lute and inspires the party. The party then goes to Siebern who teleports them to the island of Midalios in Rydoon. They make their way towards draketower across jubilation bridge. There are some festivities celebrating Augur, the holy day of Divinus. The party passes by the magic shop Runes and Rods owned by Nikolaos. A guard stationed outside informs the party that Nikolaos is dead, allegedly having killed himself. The party continues on to the new Branch alchemy shop and the Acolyte magic shop where they aqcuire some acid resist potions, healing potions and magic items. The Boatmobile, still sitting in the harbor where it had been left was acquired and the glorious vessel carried our heroes across Lake Endeen in style.

Guard squads of pegasi and flying chariots could be seen as they made their way north into a river inlet. They stop at two towns on the way: Claygate and Saltwharf, the later slightly larger than the former. Once the party reaches the open sea it takes them 2 days to cross the ocean towards the island of lilac vine. The Boatmobile runs aground on large vines growing 100ft out from the shore of the island. Naldri polymorphs into a giant eagle and carries everyone ashore. Shrieker talks to a snake with the help of Hassk and gets told that the dragon Vitrizkraan sometimes can be seen flying northwest. The snake also tells them that the terrain inwards is very treacherous. The party rests up in Naldri's magnificient mansion and slowly makes their way towards the Guild of the Lilac Vine, where Vitrizkraan supposedly resides.

At the large tower building of the guild the party runs into an army of black and grey kobolds. Slaughtering their way through the poor creatures they make it to the observatory where a previous kobold survivor of a different expedition meets Fonteyne's eye as it rides in on a Catoblepas. After the kobolds are dealt with(altough some managed to escape by jumping out a window into the marshy terrain), the party explores the rest of the tower finding a side room with three signs saying: "To be sorted", "Waste", "Ready for Transport", eluding to the fact that there was a dragons hoard somewhere. The party discovers that there is some water draining from the basin on the bottom floor, upon further examination they find a skull pattern in the floor. One of the eyes opens up revealing a deep chamber. The party ties 3 ropes together and climbs down finding a chamber with a giant skull covering the floor, carved out of a myriad of bone. 2 Gaunt figures can be seen standing guard and as the heroes approach, Bren notices the otherwise invisible Vitrizkraan using his witchsight. The dragon turned Dracolich slithers out from one of the giant skulls eyesockets and a viscious battle ensues. The fighting takes the life of valiant Andrul who is struck down by one of the dracolich's many acid breaths. In the end it is Fonteyne that lands the killing blow against the monster. Taking the broken and acid ravaged corpse of Andrul with them the party teleports home.

## (20/12/20) 7WD, Onteer-Greencrown

* Asurak
* Sílon
* Naldri
* Shrieker
* Hassk
* Ignatius
* Arnenne

There is a commotion as inn patrons run out into the streets decrying the liquor as tasting of dirty water. A quick investigation reveals that most of the drinks in town were afflicted despite looking normal except for Hassk's elderflower wine which was tucked away in his bag of holding. After a day the drinks returned to their normal state. Naldri plays her lute and inspires confidence in the party. The party heads out of Mosshill redoubt towards Goldlor's pride cheesery. They run across a contingent of Blue Fangs patrolling the countryside, Hassk barters with them a flask of elderflower wine. After they part ways Naldri creates her magnificent mansion for the party to rest in. Silon asks Arnenne about her background and the pallid elves as Ignatius hands out cheese.

The next day the party makes headway across the vast open grasslands. Shrieker suddenly notices a rumbling in the ground and the party is ambushed by a contingecy of sisters of Iron along with a metal monstrosity known as a Ferroster. After defeating the i'll prepared band of blackguards. Continuing on they finally make it to the cheesery which is oddly empty of workers outside it's premises. There is a signpost with a palace to the north(Chalimar palace), a town to the west and a forest to the south. The inside is inhabited by zombie worker farmhands, still working the cheese vats. In the backroom is the apparent "owner" of the cheesery, Mathias Raprild a necromancer who had found the place empty and dead. Mathias was a gaunt and sickly looking fellow whose left side was suffering some kind of illness and loss of functionality. He had apparently gotten sick from eating bread made from the wheat of Five Fields Farm. Ignatius finding the undead an abbhorrance to Aita's teachings went on to destroying all of the zombies in the cheesery. Meanwhile Silon having some connection to the Goldlor family demanded Mathias to leave the Cheesery as he saw it as a desecration of the Goldlor name and wanted to burn down the cheesery. Hassk didn't like the idea of the party robbing Mathias of his business and thus compensated him for the cheese in the cheesery.

Having burned the cheesery to the ground, Hassk inquires about Silon's connection to the Goldlor family. He reveals that he's the last living heir to the throne of Atralran, a long lost kingdom ruling out of Chalimar palace.

## (27/12/20) 7WD, Otealt-Greencrown

* Fonteyne
* William
* Grace
* Ronan
* Hassk
* Bren
* Grognac

A large crowd has gathered in the middle of town. Trele once again being the focal point of attention as he demonstrates small scale magic tricks for the crowd to humming cheers. As the gathering quiets down the party is aqcuianted with the new arrival William who presents himself as one very interested in magic. Planning on going to the underdark to investigate the source of the mindflayer attacks the party heads to the entrance in fort Arkenviir. As they make head northwestwards they are haunted by noises and voices in the distance which keeps them on edge.

At one point walking through some tunnels they are detected and ambushed by a purple worm. Hassk distracts the worm using thaumaturgy. Fonteyne gets swallowed and the worm tries to flee but Hubert, Bren's earth elemental gives it a smackdown it wont soon forget and the beast is slain. Further in the "day" the party stumbles upon the corpse of a drow with a mindflayer sized hole in his skull. The party moves on and stumbles upon an abandoned minecart which turns out to be a very big mimic which is swiftly slain. Grognac beeseches his deity Aita and creates a tiny hut in order to give the party safe rest for the night. However they are once again haunted by strange noises in the night and claw marks on the hut itself.

The party is met with a few gaunt, hobgoblin looking creatures who trigger an ambush seemingly having waited for them. A svarm of Dolgaunts, Dolgrims, Slaads and Alien catfishes attack the party. Fireballs and flamestrikes are tossed, celestials are summoned and all hell breaks loose. One of the alien catfishes stuns Fonteyne and crawls into his ear, Hassk later removes it by turning his fingers into "tweezer like" appendages. Eventually the foes are defeated and the party decides to head back to Whittengrove, they find that a few symbols are carved into the cavewall, one of Den Kernarnvar and one of the .Scions

## (03/01/21) 7WD, Pinnul-Greencrown

* Aenarion
* Rixori
* Valentine
* Hassk
* Grace
* William

The party gathers at Starhite rest and heads northwards into the forest of Covengrove. A foggy haze permeates the border of the forest. As Aenarion crosses the border he can no longer see the party behind him but he's still visible to the rest of the party. As they pass through the forest they are ambushed by darklings, meenlocks and banderhobbs. After the last of the darklings retreat an eye symbol is found to have been left on a tree, which eerily seems to follow the party's movements. Aenarion speaks to a tree named Vekran and asks it about the symbol, the tree talks about being blessed and the influence of the weald witch being everywhere.

As the party heads deeper into Covengove forest the fogs gets thicker, signs of civilization in the form of trails and fences are seen. The party finds dolls suspended from tree, packed with dirt and mulch, Hassk decides to keep one As the party rests for the night Valentine notices a flash of eyes in the dark, Rixori hears whining and the coiling and uncoiling of chains. The next day the party runs into a group of highwaymen led by a man with chains wrapped around him. He the party for a deal, they give him their belongings or one of their number. Aenarion being the clever trickster he is gives them a giant rat, to which the highwaymen accepts defeat and lets the party pass.

As they make their way further northwest they find a small village named Festertarn built upon a murky pond with a pillar like stone structure in the middle of the pond. Some of the villagers are missing body parts, they speak about paying penance for protection and for stepping out of line. A bull skull clad woman appears from a underwater cave and cuts her hand with a sickle, raising the structure in the middle of the pond. A village guard walks out and the woman cuts off one of the guards fingers.

"The cost for words, spoken in place of preferrable silence, unspoken when silence should have been broken.

The cost for vision, things seen when curiosity proved overwhelming, sights missed when we turned our head.

The cost for clamour, whispers witnessed willfully upon the wind bringing woe, ignorance by ear when we should have listened.

The cost for action, reaching with body for what we did not deserve, embracing idleness when response was necessary.

The cost for life, given willingly."

Hassk asks a villager about the procedings and they tell him that the pond is their connection to the dowagers which the party asumes to be the hags known to reside in the forest. All the villagers wear a iron tooth amulet with a familiar eye symbol upon it. Hassk asks about the highwaymen which turn out to be notorious slavers which the dowagers protect the villagers from in return for a penance price. The highwaymen reside in a crypt known as Dirgevale west of Festertarn. The party decides to have an audience with the elder of the village who resides in the underwater cave connected to the pond. Hassk, Rixori and Grace go ahead as they have an easier time swimming. Swimming through a claustrophobic tunnel they find themselves in a large cavern full of the dismembered body parts of generations of villagers. In the middle is a small hut to which Hassk is invited inside. Grace identifies the presence inside as a Hag and Rixori mentally warns Hassk about the danger. The Hag named Glaring Freda asks Hassk for a scale from his forehead, failing to convince her of other offers she tries to magicly influence him. Hassk pretends to oblige and gives her a fake scale using alter self. The rest of the party getting a distress call from Rixori arrives. Rixori notices the paintings on the walls, depicting villagers at a younger age, among them is the destinct visage of Trele with red eyes. While the party is split between running and fighting, Aenarion and Grace attack Glaring Freda and a fight ensues where the Hag turns into a giant ape and calls upon several Banderhobbs and an undead tree guardian named Kinghazel. The undead tree drains William of life and kills him. The fight is hard and the party barely manages to kill the Banderhobbs and Kinghazel. After getting a finger from William's corpse they retreat.

## (17/01/21) 7WD, Jas-Highreign

* Aenarion
* Bren
* Hassk
* Naldri
* William

After a short shopping session in the stores of Whittengrove, the expedition party meet in the centre of the city, contemplating on the peace and quiet afforded by the absence of Trele following his departure to Rydoon with Ronan. Linking arms, Bren utilises his ability to Plane Shift to bring them into the Feywild, landing in a quiet forest clearing of tall grass that he refers to as "Peony Broadlet." The clearing, while seemingly safe and isolated is not without its curiosities - first and foremost the stream flowing from north to south that seems to change the direction of its flow when not actively observed. While nearly all the party goes to rest with Naldri's *Magnificent Mansion*, Aenarion waits outside, enjoying his return to the Feywild. After a short while, he encounters a sentient and talkative hedgehog called Marcellus who asks him to help find his bone flute, supposedly carved from the spine of a ferret that greviously irritated him. Locating it floating within an eddy in the stream with assistance from the tall grass, Aenarion plucked it free with use of his *Mage Hand*, avoiding the grasping vines lining the banks of the water. Overjoyed, Marcellus plays a melody that compels Aenarion into dancing for an hour or so, before heading on his way.

With Bren rested, the party planeshifts to Merrai, the sunken city in the Cobalt Sea. Arcanely granted the ability to breath underwater, the party start to search through the ruined settlement within the depths of the ocean - the surface not visible above them. They locate what appears to be a research facility, damaged but largely undisturbed, as well as a few treasures hidden amongst the wreckage. After an incident involving a chest filled with parchments, the party starts to place their finds within Hassk's Bag of Holding for safe keeping, vowing to examine them further later upon their return. Throughout their search, individual members of the party find themselves experiencing daydream-like visions, seemingly showing glimpses of the past - mages undertaking research, soldiers playing cards, apprentices rearranging books. Hassk likens it his experiences in the Hanbalani Atlas, Bren to what he heard of the expedition at Five Fields Farm. Both seem to have truth in the matter.

Stumbling across a ruined library, they spy a vast contraption beyond and move to investigate.

Linked via chains of arcane focuses that still pulse with magical energy, six chairs surround a central plinth. Hassk casts *Detect Magic* to investigate further, nearly finding himself overwhelmed by the scale of the Illusionary magic lingering in the room. Bren confirms his suspicions when he spies a space in the structure that appears to be the correct shape and dimensions for a Legacy of Distant Reverie, prompting the party to scour the room further still. William accidentally activates the latent energy in the room, and the party finds themselves in the same room - now undamaged, unflooded and intact. Six mages stir within the chairs, seemingly dreaming - as confirmed by Aenarion's attempts to communicate - but otherwise covered in a dark smoky haze. When Bren loosens the now-present Legacy from its casing, seemingly duplicating it, this haze turns out to be a legion of Quori that attack the party, but are quickly dispatched by the party and Bren's summoned Earth Elemental Jim. As the Quori fade, the room starts to shake, the roof collapsing and filling with water as a cloaked figure pulls the Legacy from the construct.

While they can interact with their surroundings, capable of collecting up a selection of books from the nearby library none of the occupants pay them any mind. William and Bren run down a corridor to check in on a tunnel previously collapsed, confirming the location of a teleportation circle behind it. As they turn to return to the party, they watch as a group of nobles with doublets decorated with stitched lances try to flee for the circle, only to be crushed beneath the falling ceiling - the room promptly flooding afterwards. Running through a dining area, they observe a meeting of mages from both the Guilds of the Silver Lotus and Velvet Rose reporting their findings to another group of nobles, before they are interrupted by the arrival of the cloaked figure who promptly butchers them with a writhing mass of inky black tendrils. In the chaos, Hassk seizes up their reports, stuffing them into the Bag of Holding, and Bren tries to spy beneath the hood of the figure - seeing a pale face with dark eyes that he suspects to be either elven or kalashtar in heritage. No sooner as the room settles does the room begin to collapse and fill with water.

The party passes the sundial by which they first appeared in the city, watching as the glass dome above shattering it with the force of the water rushing towards it. Moving quickly, they pass into a church dedicated to Veth, God of the Winds, Waves and Travel, watching as a priest rambles incoherently with a near-overflowing jewelled goblet in hand. The statue of Veth suddenly fractures, crushing the priest and sending the worshippers into flight. Fracturing the air around it like a broken mirror reflecting an empty void, a trio of figures step forth - two slinking masses of resin, a pair of Kaorti, and at their head the previously encountered individual, Eordemos Lightvale. While the trio pays the party little mind in their indiscriminate slaughter, Quori spirits occupying their space in the dream-like illusion attack the party. William is possessed by one of their number, much of the rest of the party enraged into attacking each other by another, but they eventually find themselves victorious.

Uncertain how to break free of the illusion, Bren proposes that the party travel through the portal present within the room. With some reluctancy, they join in, finding themselves beneath the weight of the water once more - although within the ruined church rather than in the primary research room. Dismissing the further confusion between illusion and dream for the time, they wait out the time necessary to Plane Shift home, locating a few other magic items on the way, and clearing a path to the previously discovered Teleportation Circle.

Upon their return to Whittengrove and finding all the items collected during the illusionary visions have vanished from Hassk's Bag of Holding, Bren casts *Contact Other Plane*, hoping to confirm what he already suspected. Hadar, known through prior research to have managed to travel from the Far Realm into Dal Quor, the Plane of Dreams seeks the Legacies to connect Dal Quor to the Prime Material Plane. He learns that the Hunter in the Ephialtes does not know Lady Zareyl holds one of Legacies, and that they have already discovered the location of at least one of the others. What remains uncertain is which one remains unaccounted for - the one stolen from Merrai in the attack that caused the city to fall from the sky, or the one undiscovered entirely? How does this link to the Wayfinder Stones, and the Hanbalani Cores that seem to invoke a similar effect?

## (30/01/21) 7WD, Halla-Highreign

* Ajax the Beast
* Dovruk
* Jasper
* Kodyak Mountain-Eye
* Therikles
* Vermir Darksoul
* Zummaris Lufir

A new group of adventurers assembled, the party makes their introductions before setting forth for the city of Rydoon in search for the trail of the Butcher of Byllastro, upon whom a bounty of four thousand gold pieces has been placed. They arrive upon the isle of Midalios, finding their surroundings awash with activity in preparation for the upcoming 130th Kroan Games. Distracted while trying to make their way to the docks, Therikles and Ajax buy some totally legitmate potions of vitality and strength from a vendor for a fair measure of gold, before Kodyak uses his passing familiarity with the city to assist them in their journey. Vermir, relying on his history as a sailor, barters for passage to the isle of Tike, close to the location of the Guild of the Guerdon - the organisation responsible for managing bounties and other investigations within the city. After a short while listening to the town criers give the morning news and announcements, they continue on their way.

*"The 130th Kroan Games are upon us! Athletes from Thornwatch to Silent Court come to compete in the contests due to start with the turn of the moon. Gold, glory and nobility, all may be won for those blessed by the Lady of the Red Mist.*

*Midarch Maro qu Regas and the City Watch still seek information on the incidents on the isle of Peroda two months ago. Any citizen with further details is encouraged to visit Stalwart Sound with due haste.*

*Visitors and citizens alike revel in the luxury of The Altar - experience opulence like never before, in legendary comfort.*

*The Leos family are deepened saddened to announce the sudden death of their firstborn son Mytro qu Leos. The Archon of Pylodes Roque qu Leos will be leading funeral proceedings within the Chantry of the Fervorous in the days following the Kroan Games."*

On the way, they encounter a pair of brawling dwarves, their bout spilling out of the Four Sails tavern and into the Seasalt Market, causing great disruption to the local stalls. After talking down a patrol of Evzos and sending the dwarves on their way, Therikles and Ajax take bets on the victor of the brawl, with Therikles using his *Healing Hands* to nullify the wounds dealt to both come its conclusion. At the Guild, Therikles struggles to cope with the bureaucracy of the place, forcing Vermir to take the lead - whom promptly uses *Minor Illusion* to bypass the ticket-based waiting system. They learn that the Butcher is wanted on the crimes of murder, kidnapping and suspected slavery, having previously been captured in the ruined village of Byllastro, but the orc had managed to escape before being tried and punished. Suspecting them to still be within the city, they direct the party to start their search in the lesser-frequented district of Estaemarl.

On the way through Drakestower, Dovruk is bumped into by a passerby being pursued by a pair of Evzos. Stopped in his tracks by the party, he is searched by the guards but they fail to locate the gemstone he supposedly stole from the Onyx and Ivory - an upmarket store within the Radiant Heart District. Decieving the guards into believing that he may have had an accomplice, the party confronts the thief, who introduces himself as Kallionon, forcing him to admit to his crimes. He had stolen the gem in hope to use it to pay back his debts following a series of bad bets at a fighting pit called the Gloom Circle. Zummaris consoles him, gleaming that Kallionon had seen an orc that matched the description given for the Butcher in a location in Estaemarl called the Matron House.

After serving as unintentional witnesses of an assassination - the culprit clad in blue and gold cloth and capable of running up shear walls, fleeing from the smouldering remains of a presumedly fiendish target left in a narrow alley - they investigate a large iron coin within the singed clothing, etched with Infernal script - *"Here Within Lies the Soul of Azer Bogal".* Invoking celestial intervention to free the soul within to uncertain effect, Therikles pockets the coin and the party push on, guided by Dovruk, who is in turn guided by the spectral being Lady, who shows him where to look for the chalk markings to better decide upon the path ahead.

The party makes a dramatic entrance into the Matron House, an old theatre transformed into makeshift healing centre and chapel to Aita, demanding to know the location of the Butcher. After explaining his side of the story, initially Cribur seemed persuaded to go with them peacefully, until a band of mercenaries sailing with The Offering arrived, having heard of the party asking around the Butcher. After a short conflict, Cribur, now fearful tried to flee - only to find himself cornered at a locked door. Panicked, his survival instincts kicked in, spurning his transformation into his hybrid wereboar form - a secret curse he claimed was bestowed onto him during his time with the Hunters. Surprised, Ilana demanded he ceased such madness at once, pledging to heal him of his affliction if he agreed to leave peacefully. With little hesitation, Cribur offered himself in penance once more to the cleric, allowing himself to be purged of the curse and then submitted himself to be taken to the Guild of the Guerdon without issue. Before being taken into the dungeons to await sentencing, he was gifted a small figurine of Aita by Dovruk, the bugbear now seemedly on a path to faith with Aita, with the promise that Ilana would look into the identity of Lady for him by calling on some old contracts.

## (13/02/21) 7WD, Carrast-Highreign

* Asurak
* Bren
* Grognac
* Hassk
* Naldri
* Reginald
* Ume

The party takes part in the Kroan Games, there is cheating and competition alike - Asurak, Ume and Reggie winning big.

## (28/02/21) 7WD, Ardor-Amberlight

* Aenarion
* Bren
* Hassk
* Ignatius
* Ragmond
* Ronan
* Ume
* Velkyn

Meeting up within the city of Rydoon, having travelled there via a newly created Waymark in the halls of the Matron House, the party goes about some mundane matters. While Velkyn stocks up on spell-scrolls, predominately through use of Hassk's coinpurse, Ume acquires a new magical item from Sira Yewcrest's box of common magic items. Aphyllia, having joined Aenarion on the journey, is purchased a scrying focus featuring water from the Elemental Plane of Water by the eladrin, while Hassk undergoes some long-awaited investigations. Discussing his alchemical findings with Alnu, the centaur explains that the substance consumed at Festertarn matches the description of a mixture commonly known as 'Memory Tea', amongst other names. Once consumed, the brewer can, when dreaming, peer into the memories of any that consumed the substance. Naturally perturbed, Hassk enquires into ways to reverse or eliminate the connection entirely - for which Alnu prescribes a tincture of amber-red capable of breaking more routine afflictions or curses, stating he is fairly confident it will work. Owing to the costly ingredients, he has only one in stock, prompting Hassk to place an order on additional doses - paying in advance.

After a visit to the Library of the Poet, the party, now collected in Peacock Square of Drakestower, discuss the plan ahead, accompanied by Bren and Aenarion offering words of advice for those less familiar with the Feywild. Making their way to the rockpools dotted along the northern bank of the isle of Cyrillai, Aenarion charms his way into supposedly temporary possession of a rowboat from a smuggler, paying him with an invitational flyer to the Fairy Club. To hide them from the prying gaze of those stationed in and around the watchtowers of Kyroe and Inylsos via use of *Silent Image* and *Minor Illusions*. Ume steers them in deftly into a quiet cove on the southeastern aspect of the isle, and after hiding the rowboat within some shrubbery, they push onwards into the island. With Aenarion leading the way, they stumble across signs of revelry - scattered wine bottles, old plates and dishes, braziers with long-cold ash - recalling tales of parts of the isle being opened up for the Feast of the Brightnoon, a celebratory feast in honour of Buwello the Mulberry Lord. Dobryn, Velkyn's familiar soars high - spying a small temple-like structure at the heart of the forest in the northwestern aspect of the isle. With the trail set, they find themselves standing before a trio of dryads, one familiar to those that partook in the Kroan Games as Java, the gifter of the laurel crowns given to the victors. She does not stop their approach, simply stepping aside to allow them to examine a shallow pool of water reflecting a looming forest within. Upon glancing up from the reflection, they find themselves standing within the very same forest - the party now in the Feywild.

The adventurers get to work. While Bren scans the surroundings for illusionary creatures - finding none, save a pixie masquerading as a glowing butterfly - Velkyn starts to ask for directions from a passing moth, offering a flower artificially sweetened via *Prestidigitation*. It is not the flavour that wins the moth's favour however, rather that the flower was an ancient long-standing enemy of his, and so shares directions of a firbolg matching Ronan's description passing by to the northeast in thanks for Velkyn butchering the plant on his behalf. Meanwhile, Aphyllia scries of Ronan, seeing him held within a pit-like cell, his body mangled and warped and his head incased with a thick haze of psychotropic webbing. In the distance she hears the grumbling of giant, but cannot make much more of the surroundings - nor any plant-life through which to travel.

The party resigns themselves to walking, guided on their way by a Yeth Hound summoned by Bren. After a few hours, they come across a small campsite, within a rocking chair a female human sways nervously, surrounded by scrawled map components. She seems forgotful, repeatedly confirming that they are not an illusion by tossing dirt at the irrate Velkyn, as well as babbling in realisation that she seemingly has become a woman - her misfitting clothes seemingly corroborating this claim. Ignatius, utilising his divine magic casts *Greater Restoration* on Idris and clear the confusion that holds them in place. Coming round, they declare they've had quite enough of the Feywild, having originally travelled to the location in fealty to their faith to the Pathmaker. As thanks, they offer them what remains of their provisions - empty boxes they thought filled with rations and waterskins - and a map of the Feywild featuring a number of locations.

The afternoon finds the party passing by a series of shallow pools, with Dobryn and Ignatius compelled by means of a charm to enter. Velkyn dismisses his familiar, but as Ignatius finds soothing comfort in the warm waters, he is dragged underwater and through the illusionary base of the pools by a large feminine-looking humanoid invisible to those not within the water, save for when the Sylandine itself breaches the surface. The Yeth Hound's *Baleful Baying* sends the drowned creatures into flight, and with aid from Aenarion and his summoned *Water Spirit* Ignatius is rescued from a watery grave - and supposedly transformation into the very same spirit.

Come nightfall, much of the party finds shelter within Ignatius' *Tiny Hut*, save Aenarion and Aphyllia that vanish through use of *Transport via Plants* to spend the night in Hollyhock Crest, the Court of Lyomri, Daughter of Twilight. Velkyn's *Alarm* spell is triggered in the night by a cloud of Smotherlings, shadowy spirits with devilish faces and rasping claws that consume his familiar and press against the edge of the dome, unable to enter. Invoking Aita's power through *Divine Intervention*, they are cleared by a sudden flash of pure daylight that dispels them - and in doing so allows the party to sleep once more.

Morning comes, and yet the moon lingers overhead, unmoved. They push on, travelling through marshes and quags until coming across ruins sunken in the mud. Dispatching a fomorian, short and mishapen even by their corrupted standards, and a pair of Gorgons, they follow a narrow path and find themselves within a partially-flooded halls of an ancient kingdom. With fire and earth elementals summoned to match those created by Aenarion through his *Bag of Tricks*, the party enters a small chamber arrnaged like an arcane study - with scrolls, books and fanciful quill and ink set atop a neatly-arranged central table. Seeing through the illusion shielding the magic's creator, Bren kills the Nezim Thoughtweaver, a tiny spider generating psychotropic visions through its webbing. Velkyn seems most disappointed by the faltering of the illusion. Following *Locate Creature*, Ignatius guides them past more *Hallucinatory Terrain* spells, Samuel the Fire Elemental burning away the webbing as they go. Uncovering Ronan's cell, they free the Firbolg but find him mutated and twisted by the Fomorian magic and in a seemed trance. Another use of *Greater Restoration* ejects the Thoughtweaver within his nose, the arcane arachnid promptly slain.

Pleasantries do not last long, owing to the ongoing chanting echoing through the corridors and tunnels. Rushing to investigate, they witness Trele suspended in a web of arcane glyphs - words in Abyssal fusing crystalline and adding to the complexity.

*"Blood and wine, web and vine,*

*Unweave divine trickery, stitch glorious spawn anew,*

*Blood and wine, web and vine,*

*From bindings of bairn, vestige echo pursue.*

*Blood and wine, web and vine,*

*Dark Prince of the Abyss, hear our beckoning,*

*Blood and wine, web and vine,*

*Turn back to once was, bring forth fate's reckoning."*

With Grey Marjorie leading the chant, the ritual comes to a conclusion garnering the attention of the Dark Prince Graz'zt. Greeting Trele like an old friend, the Demon Lord refers to him as Magnhild Juniperspawn, before undoing the magic that originally transformed her into a human child. Dropping to the ground as Graz'zt vanished back into the Abyss, 'Trele', now looking more feminine, runs to the side of the Bheur Hag and the pair vanish in a frost-laden teleportation spell. The party is left to contend with those that remain - a number of Nezim, the dracolich Osseildin and the Fomorian King Ninlith. Handily defeating the minor dracolich - its spirit disappearing into the mist. Ninlith, sustaining significant burns from the Fire Elemental crushes the summon into non-existence, before nearly doing the same with Bren. With Ume and Aenarion contending with another smaller Fomorian Drudge, Ninlith curses much of the party with a monstrous gaze powered by the Glorious Eye, revealed to be one and the same as the Weald Witch. Through repeated use of flame to burn the web and flesh alike of those standing against them, the party finds respite finally when Aenarion slays the King as he lunges for Ragmond.

Ronan rescued, his belongings retrieved, but a new threat unleashed - and machinations long-awaited now in motion.

## (21/03/21) 7WD, Glede-Amberlight

* Velkyn
* Bren
* Zareyl Arkenviir
* Zummaris Lufir
* Fonteyne Pinewoods
* Caledhelion

Heading out with the intent of discovering the lost Legacies of the Distant Reveries, the group head first into the Feywilds before heading for the penance marshes. With word of recall set, and teleportation prepared by Cal, the group were ready to head out via plane shift by Bren the warlock. Prior to leaving, Velkyn attempted to scry upon the keeper of the legacies and leader of the Last Day, but ended in failure by the pitiful Drow. Upon their arrival into the Feywilds, the Drow continued his failures by vomitting in response to the planar travel to Feywilds. Setting up marquees and tiny huts, the group went about their preparations for the coming day as Cal prepared a spell scroll and Velkyn continued his attempts in scrying, this time upon the hag formerly known as Trele, seeing the hags communing with one another and clicking their fingers to dispel the scrying focus. Focusing on the Legacy in Zareyl's grasp, the terrain around them would terraform with illusory magic to settle them within the underdark. Upon their arrival, Bren pleaded with a an entity in the feywilds but heard no response but received a small lock which he could not open. A sign perhaps, but uncertain of its meaning.

Shifting into the material plane, the group found themselves knee deep in marshlands, but with a casting of radiant energy, the group were able to walk with ease as the priestess cast water walk upon the party. A second attempt to scry upon Lightvale, and a second failure by the Drow warlock. With instructing words of their search for a waterfall, Velkyn summoned a guiding hand to point them in the direction of the waterfal that Zareyl sought. With a direction decided, Zareyl began guiding the group through the marshes to the south-west before bogmanglers turned upon the group with vicious vines and smogs of toxicity. Whilst the creatures were not powerful on their own, the sheer pack nature was enough to overwhelm the group for a time that leading Cal falling in battle after Zareyl dimension door'd the other priestess away to safety upon her fall.

Eventually, the battle would come to an end, but not without close calls at each of the vile creatures were defeated. Continuing on their search, they would eventually stumble upon Illusory magic at the waterfall that the guiding hand would show them the path to. Following the essence of magic, their journey would lead to a village littered with dried bodies, almost void of any moisture as thought it had been drained from their very core. In the centre of the village, a tree broken had been split with a rusted pillar, nails littered its roots and the village.

In the village, within the vacated abodes, the party split up to widen their searcj for the legacies but each fall unconscious and into a dream state as they had done at Eldur's farm. The group of clerics found themselves in an auditorium, a fragment of memory that repeated by bards on stage at the whims of a tabaxi, until the Zummaris opted to shake the tabaxi free of its madness, changing its form into the dream dwelling monsrosity. With the use of the arcane, Zareyl quickly changed the Firbolg's form into that of a tyrannasaurus rex, who quickly dispatched the vile being with a single bite. Elsewhere, adventurers found themselves in a giant kitchen and open courtyard, though little is known of the struggles they had faced. The important matter was they eahc conquered the visions that had and were transported to an ocean's edge upon craggy rocks, where a Kalashtar hid a message within a bottle amongst the rocks. The woman was Liadove, a face that Caledhelion had seen before and was struck by.

*"My Dear Demo,*

*I've addressed this letter to you, but I think part of me knows that you will never look upon it with your own eyes. Perhaps that is a good thing, but there is longing in my heart nonetheless. We have been entwinned in life and death it seems - and now I know that the hollowness in my heart and soul is just a reflection of your own, with what has befallen you.*

*Do you remember when we were children and paid that crabber to take us in the coast so we could meet the merfolk? The joy of adventure that soured into fear the moment the cliff gave way and we tumbled into the waters? I have such fear now, Demo, not for myself - but for you. I knew your anger, pain scarred across generations - scoured onto the minds of those that survived the Cleansing. You have let your desire for revenge to consume you, and in it I fear you find yourself lost.*

*I know why you have returned here. I know what you seek. The darkness that stirs within you guides your step, shapes your words and deeds. Only makes sense to start back where it all started.*

*It is not here.*

*Demo, the real Demo, will know where to find me. The final Legacy of il-Yannah will not fall into the hands of il-Indlatavar. The Great Light will be renewed, and with it the void will be dispelled.*

*Return to your precious dove,*

*L."*

What was clear is there were legacies to be found in the sanctuary of the Last Day... and that the Rust Lord had gotten there first and found a Legacy of his own.

Time was running out.

## (04/04/21) 7WD, Vluk-Amberlight

* Ronan
* Cassius
* Fonteyne Howell
* Fawn
* Vaedryn'Drada Arkenviir
* Aenarion Quelenneth Velenthir

Venturing into the dunes further, they party are ambushed by sand stalkers, spiky creatures of the dunes who surround and swarm the adventurers. First. Aenarion quickly banishes the gargantuan sentinel, removing him from the battle promptly. Cassius then reacts quickly, having others meet his speed of mind and hasting both Vaedryn and Fonteyne to spring into action. Fawn, with eldritch energy bring about a flame sphere to set a stalker ablaze before Vaedryn the creatures in twain. Moving swiftly to the next, he narrowly missing before being flanked by another to take a blow in the back. Fonteyne dissects another, setting it ablaze with his sword of flames. Making short work of the first two, the party combine their strength against the remaining two. Vaedryn flexes his abyssal power before Fonteyne with his use of Orbbalure and a divine smite of eldritch energy. The acts of bravado continue with an investiture of flames, Vaedryn responds with an armor of agathys, covering himself in ice.

When the banished sentinel returned, the party let loose their attacks with divine smites, being forced to scowl, burnt by a fireball, hacked by Delver’s Deep and fell without uttering a word or swinging a claw.

Resting the dunes, the party make camp for the night. Ronan, communing with Tohmos, seeks the wisdom of the gods and understanding as to whether they would meet with the Storm of Rusts in the capital they ventured for. An acknowledgment was received, assuring them of their quests and quarry. In the morning, Cassius sprung out celestial wings and flew high to gaze upon the horizon, spotting a distant city in the north-west.

Venturing on with Ronan as their guide, they head for the lost city of Ancruor in search of the Storm of Rusts. Finding a cavern of sorts, the ground opened up, swelling into an arcane maelstrom pulling in many of the party save for Aenarion, Cassius and Vaedryn, who promptly lept into the swirling energy as the party found themselves in the last city.

Heading, Cassius casting death ward upon himself and Vaedryn, with the other members of the party being written into Fawn’s book for protection, they explored the tunnel ahead of them in search of the Storm of Rusts. Guided by the conjured beats of Aenarion, the party delved deeper (no pun intended). A greeting part met them in the initial tunnel, a near dozen undead soldiers guided by Ayep to stop their journey short. Khritos followed soon, conjuring a purple from the earth to join the battle, which later would prove to be an illusion. Arrows, spells and steel traded either way, Fonteyne falling flat and unconscious as he stormed towards the illusory purple worm. Ronan, with ethereal hammers oscillating around him, charged forth towards the undead horde to devastating effect, wrapped in webs and tendrils of the Abyss, courtesy of Vaedryn’s shield of faith.

Khitros was the first to fall of the Dustlords, with Ayep furiously teleporting to avoid contact with his enemies. One by one, the servants of the Dustlords were dispatched as mummies were unravelled and undead were smited. All that remained was the elusive Ayep who continued to apparate and dissipate. Finally, teleported into a radiant sphere of angelic guardians, unable to flee, he wailed into Vaedryn and Fawn before being dispersed by the radiant flames of Fawn. The remaining pawns of the Storm of Rusts were swiftly dispatched before the group ventured deeper into the city.

Following a winding path of sandstone, dusty swirling about them, they find themselves heading towards an opening ending with a cave with guard towers at either side. In a distant time, these parapets would have once been the beacons of a divine voice calling for worship. A motivational speech by Fonteyne, quickly outdone by the inspiring leadership of Cassius.

Venturing on, the party make their way through a temple. Urns of silt line the walls of the temple as they pass through, similar in design to the temples they had seen before, notably the tomb of shadowsword. Warriors were impaled by beams of rusted steel before them as they entered the inner sanctum, Nakhelos included. Until the Storm of Rusts revealed himself in the form of a storm that whirled around the entire chamber. Claws wrap around a sarcophagus, centauroid in appearance, covered in peeling skin and scar tissue. A naked torso, corrosion and rusted nails spill from him, holding needle like blades from arms with his body pierced by rusted blades. In place of eyes, twisted horns of rusted red with black wings upon his back, fiendish in nature and near translucent.

The battle begins as the storm rages amongst the party. Swarming in, knowing it is death or victory, the party send spells, steel and arrows at the entity, finding little purchase as Fonteyne reaches for the blade of the Shadowsword without success. Impaled with rust and swing of his sword, Vaedryn fell but stayed upon his feet with the blessing of death ward from Cassius. Spirit guardians were cast by Ronan, but swiftly undone by a dispel magic by the Storm of Rusts. Swinging steel imbued with arcane magic failed to pierce through a thick hide of rust, spells sent wildly in with no purchase as some ranged defence blocked attacks with greater resilience. Vaedryn and Fonteyne fell likes flies before the Storm of Rusts, brought up by the healing magic of Ronan and Fawn. Time and time again, the melee warriors fell but raised by divine magic in their vain attempts to smite the fiendish entity. Slowly but surely, the party whittled away at the Storm of Rusts.

With all destroyed in a wave of destruction, Vaedryn’s eyes open and without a word disappeared in smoke and appears behind the Storm of Rusts. Fonteyne laid lifeless upon the floor, the shadow of the sword swarming around an empty vessel. Summoning tendrils of the Abyss that wrapped around his sword as it pierces the chest of the centaurion entity. Tendrils broke free and dived into the rusted wounds of the deity, squeezing the tendons and organs of the foul creature before ethereal spiders began to spring forth from its throat and devour him from head to toes. In its wake, disintegrating into ash as shards of rusts broke through stone as Umbrous Tethers were left behind.

Arrows and spells fly at the tethers, one combusting into ash as Vaedryn, Cassius and Aenarion dive into the belly of the beast to finish what they started. Revived from death with a diamond thrust into Fonteyne’s heart, he dashed into the hall with the others. In the vain hope he would be shrouded from their sight, Vaedryn casts darkness upon himself before sprinting towards the tethers.

Pixies conjured from the Feywilds by Aenarion, twisting the forms of the party into giant apes, though quickly dispelled by felling the pixies and returning them back to the Feywilds, all but Aenarion who maintained his stride in primal form.

One by one, the totems fell as rust scattered across the halls. Eventually, free from the sandstorms of Rak Tulkhesh, a legacy fell from the storms above into the hands of Cassius. Transported, momentarily into the plane of dreams, the group laid eyes upon Hadar and his hunger, raging before the group as they held the legacy. With a word of recall the group escaped the collapsing temple and realm of dreams back to Whittengrove with legacy in hands and passed onto the keeper, Zareyl Arkenviir.

Fonteyne, alone and separated from the Shadowsword, as the devilish feline fled upon the Storm’s defeated. Whether he will be seen again, we do not know. But with a pact incomplete, there are many more questions to be answered and further harbingers to hunt down. And yet, a single and remaining legacy to find.

## (11/04/21) 7 WD, Tarra-Whiterose

* Vaedryn'Drada Arkenviir
* Shiho
* Fafnir Lutgehr
* Sprocket
* Fawn
* Caledhelion
* Ragmond McDougall

The part joined in the City of Whittengrove, some new faces joining in their hunt for secrets and lore of the Legacies of the Distant Reveries. With a single hook, obtained by Zareyl from Liadove, the group would follow the knowledge of Caledhelion.

Heading out, following Caledhelion’s lead, the group headed north from Whittengrove in search of their quarry. Half a day passed before they found themselves lost in the plains of the Whitten Waymark. Upon rest, words of propaganda filled Ragmond’s mind as Vaedryn spoke words of entrapment in the vain hope of offering an alternative deity to worship in Lolth, but the proposition was quickly quashed by the Aasimar, with Vaedryn giving no argument and seeing the pointlessness in continuing. Further into the night, Fafnir sought the understanding of Sprocket’s machinations, though was quickly refused as the kobold grew defensive. Though, as the display of its machine’s might rung out with thunderous energy, Vaedryn awoke from his trance to sending a vicious threat of their end if they continued. The party settled and enjoyed the rest of the night in peace.

Venturing on, following the river North, the guidance of Cal did little to set them upon the right path. And so, Vaedryn claimed his dominance and took the lead with greater success. Until that was, pale yellow eyes watched from the woods, preying upon the group. Wood Waod’s preyed upon the group, seeking particular delight in hunting the Drow within the party. Causing a considerable amount of damage, a Hellish Rebuke would fell one from the Abyssal Hexblade, before a divine smite from Orbbalure would send the second its near destruction. Strikes followed from the party, with thunderous energy sending the third of the Fey creatures tumbling away. Soon enough, a Dryad stepped out calling for the life of the one who had struck their hexblade against a tree of the forest the night prior, eyes upon the Drow as it spoke.

Eventually, the group walked upon the location they sought, a humble estate within the woods, the door ajar and free for the party to enter. Cal fails with persuasion, the loremage known as Zumlar despondent with his entry and opposed to his arrival. Though Vaedryn’s charm, with the blessing the Spider Queen, succeeds in wooing the loremage within, with a friendly direction of their quarry as the group head deeper into the estate. Meanwhile, Caledhelion turns into a small insect and ventures forth in search alone. Barbed words exchanged between Cal and Vaedryn followed before the discovery of Cal being barred for stealing an artifact. Entering the upper levels, a door opens as a blast of fire consumes much of two loremages. Animated objects surged forth, an elk, bear, paintings, candelabras and more, as taxidermies sprung to life to do battle to the group. Yet, the group did not expect the death striking bowl of fruit that struck Shiho down to his near death as bananas, berries and apples struck the samurai to near instant death. A lightning ball from the Wizard of scribes was sufficient enough to strike down plenty of the constructs, but still the candelabra remained strong and able. Slowly but surely the candelabra was brought down, as too the animated statue that once grasped a loremage’s neck in its hand.

Moving into the library, the books and rugs came to life once more, swarming and wrapping themselves around Vaedryn for his trespassing. Books spliced and chairs burnt and delivered to their makers, the animated objects of the study destroyed and defeated. Searching the library, a half dozen books found and taken for later research. A dove statuette remained, with magic mouth cast upon it, telling the group they ventured upon the right path. Venturing on, into a final chambers, chairs and beds spring to life to do battle. In a continuous battle of attrition, the party destroy the constructs one by one. Woe onto him, as Ragmond was struck down by animated cutlery, a spoon diving within the socket of his eye and prying it free.

Finding the Rasaigostone, a garment of the spawning stone, inherently, a fragment the size of a small ball invokes unpredictable transmutation magic. No more was to be gained from the location it seemed, with Cal keen to leave with the newly found item, believing it was the key to finding Liadove… the party teleported home.

## (25/04/21) 8 WD, Gantul-Whiterose

* Vaedryn'Drada Arkenviir
* Ronan
* Aenarion Quelenneth Velenthir
* Hassk
* Velkyn Cormrael
* Brennus Coileain

Prior to leaving, Ronan dug up a unique artifact found in his mind. A warm will-o-wisp entity seemed to live within a glass chamber. Within wasa demi-plane to travel to for safety if ever needed. Velkyn would attempt to scry upon Ealwant Besculus, though no success came with the vain attempt. Setting off from Moss Hill, the party head east for the Pillar of Ualune, passing beneath the conduit that passed to the Chalimar Palace.

Resting a night, the party continued their journey before a headless horseman broke through the trees to do battle, but Aenarion found himself in a dreary mood and opted to banish the creature and suggest the party moves on. With an earth elemental conjured to await its return, the party marched on, worrying little of the battle they had left behind.

Stumbling upon a large patrol of Rethamians, with 3 hobgoblins of the Black Hand prisoners of the guard. With successful schmoozing, they were permitted to interrogate the hobgoblins, finding that the Sisters of Iron had been heading west away from their bastion and base. Following their route, the party make their way towards Storm’s Break to find refuge close to the settlement in a tavern on the outskirts. A dice game was played, in which Hassk used a charlatan’s die, and Velkyn failed to cast an illusion upon his own, seeing Hassk take gold from both Drow in the party.

When morning comes, the party fill their bellies with a hearty breakfast of porridge and yoghurts before heading out on their adventures once more. Along the way, a sense of dread filled Aenarion before three dire wolves lept from a cave towards the party. Following swiftly, a disgusting horned Sylvan creature stepped out, and another two appeared from illusory invisibility to join the fray. With two destructive divine smites from Vaedryn, Hassk was able to finish off what little remained of the first Wendigo. One by one, the wolves fell and the other Wendigo’s swiftly followed. Investigation the cave, many bones of beasts and humanoid lay within. Amongst them, 22gp worth of loose coins were found.

Their travels finally reached the tower, the magic of the door quickly dispelled before entering whilst Hassk scaled the walls to a higher floor, splitting from the party. Continuing the split, Bren and Aenarion headed into the lower floors, the others headed up. On the 1st floor up, two dead Retharians laid upon the ground, two candles radiating with wards of evocation and abjuration magic, but were quickly dispelled by Ronan’s magic.

Many mundane magical elements made up the decor of the tower, notably the continual flames that lit the sconces upon the walls. The part would soon discover that the entire inside of the tower would transport the party into the Shadow Planes. Upstairs, a broken cogheart warrior is found, with scrolls of magic upon a table. Further on, a clockwork map of the planes of existence circling around a map of Ahlus. In a chest on the upper floors, broken and opened by Ronan, a homunculus flew out and sought to escape the tower. Not having a servant of the Locked Book escape, Vaedryn destroyed the construct with a single eldritch blast. The creature would be placed in a cage, revivified and put into a bag of holding by Hassk.

Disaster struck as the party reached to peak of the tower in the realms of shadows, as a Balhannoth struck with tentacles and maw, decimating the party one at the time with shadowed prowlers sucking the life from many in one case, to death as Velkyn was drained of life and unable to be revivified. Those in the material place dashed with all haste to reach the isolated members of the party and slowly but surely they whittled away the shadowed creatures and eventually the balhannoth. With divine words being called to the gods, they returned Velkyn to life once more, just in time as the party destroyed the Mirror of Life Stealing to release a half dozen Nothics and Boarhilda. Leaving the creatures behind to do battle with two barlguras summoned by Vaedryn, the party travelled back past the inverted staircase to the Material Plane and then to Whittengrove via a word of recall, with reading and research the only thing left to tell tales of where they would find the locked book.

*Books:*

* *Death of the Virtues*
* *The Domain of Dolurrh*
* *The Hidden Light*
* *Treatises of the Blossom*

*Scrolls:*

* *Scroll of Danse Macabre*
* *Scroll of Dispel Magic*
* *Scroll of Feign Death*
* *Scroll of Invisibility x 3*
* *Scroll of Life Transference*
* *Scroll of Protection (Undead)*
* *Scroll of Silence*

*Items:*

* *Alchemical Components (1500gp)*
* *Assorted Mundane Material Components (500gp)*
* *Fine Robes x 4 (25gp each, 100gp)*
* *Jewel-Encrusted Dagger (1000gp)*
* *Ruby Dust (1500gp), Oil of Etherealness*
* *Potion of Resistance (Necrotic) x 2*
* *Wand of Binding*
* *Wand of the War Mage, +2*
* *Wisplight Lantern*

*350gp tiles*

## (02/05/21) 8 WD, Onteer-Whiterose

* Vaedryn'Drada Arkenviir
* Sílon (Briefly)
* Ronan
* Skuld Blackiron
* Paiven
* Morennel Uthreloth
* Cassius
* Fonteyne Howell

Eldarion leads the way, heading south east towards the Greater Cicatrix or the Scar of the Sands. The members of the Arken Den debate a raid upon Castle Jalzazhuss, to seize the keep from the hands of its renegade Drow occupants, though it is quickly postponed for a later date. As the heat bears down overhead, those same individuals lament the poor conditions whilst crowded underneath Skuld's parasol.

Spotting a dune shifting unnaturally, Eldarion brings the party to a halt as he expects an attack. Sanddrift Drakes burst from the sands, striking first with breaths of flame, but they underestimate the power of those whom they have ambushed and the damage is rather limited. The party retaliate, dealing widespread destruction, though Paiven does take a crippling bite in response. Cassius dispatches the first drake with the tolling of bells, Eldarion fells another with his blade, and the last two are direly injured before turning tail to flee underground.

Fonteyne reboots.

Eldarion realises he left the oven on and has to return to Whittengrove.

Pushing on further into the day, the party is best upon by Sand Elementals. Skuld demands to take them all on by himself, feeling confident and wishing to flex his abilities after his prolonged period of respite, and the party agrees and then decides to attack anyway. Voicing his frustration, the Duergar charges to the fore and beats his shield to taunt the enemies to him - which succeeds in drawing their ire.

Fonteyne is blinded by a mephit, exploding in a cloud of dust as it is slain, but continues to swing away. The rest of the party offers ranged support, blowing chunks from the elementals before they make it to their target. Skuld takes a severe beating from the larger Elementals, despite magical protection from Ronan, but this only serves to anger him as he quickly crushes two of their number into dust in a surge of action.

Vrock shenanigans ensue as both of the Drow try to make new friends. Vaedryn succeeding in learning the true name of Argril the Great, whilst Morennel flounders and only makes a new foe. The battle over, Vaedryn takes to the skies to scout out the surrounding area with his new minion but Argril the Great has different ideas and soon bucks the Drow off his back, stunning him, and leaving him to plummet a few hundred feet into Skuld's waiting arms. Following a feast of heroes and the sharing of other magical boons, the party beds down for the night and prepares for the battle tomorrow.

The party heads through the Greater Cicatrix without issue, the tension rising as they finally arrive at what appears to be the great wyrm's lair. Ronan calls forth a Deva of Tohmos to aid him in this quest, though the angelic being has a deadline for the Firbolg before he will accept to fight at his side. It is Taramon who greets the party, accompanied by a pair of Erinyes, offering a deal to stay their hand - 6 more stones now and then all will be returned after their mission is completed. Swiftly declined, a battle ensues. Ronan's summoned Deva takes an impressive beating from the devilish valkyries. Skuld deals with most of the welcoming party, a levitation spell from Vaedryn allowing him to take to the skies and deal with the Erinyes that are making a mockery of the angel.

Pushing inside, the element of surprise quickly fading, the party splits up to cover the maze of tunnels and finds a small army of kobolds hidden within. Morennel opens up the next battle with a fireball that incinerates several kobolds and grievously burns one particular inventor. Fonteyne wades into a horde of Kobolds and cultists, Delver's Deep hacking one down only for two to take its place, whilst Ronan and the warlocks fight against another group at the opposite end of the cavern. Taremon enters the fight, but his charm is surprisingly easily brushed off by Skuld and so various storm-infused beasts are unleashed upon the Duergar as he defends Morennel from the worst of their attacks. The Abashai unleashes a cone of cold that chills a majority of the party, but also fells one of his own beasts and allows Skuld to close on him. The rest of the party begins to make headway against their foes, fireballs and dawn doing work enough to thin out the masses.

Noting the odds turning against them, Taremon strikes once more by charming Ronan, who promptly slaps Skuld with a Harm that leaves him on the verge of death and then harasses the party with Dawn. Satisfied, Taremon flies around and is a general pest, he floats over a great pit whilst trying to avoid doing battle with the Deva. The Deva finally triumphs, leaving Taremon to crumble to dust and return from whence he came, freeing Ronan from his charm before he can be shackled by a frustrated Skuld. Fonteyne stands bloodied but triumphant over the horde of smaller creatures, as a series of blasts from Vaedryn and Paiven finish off the last of them.

A lengthy debate ensues about how best to descend the pit, an agreement is finally reached as Skuld is polymorphed into an eagle and the airborne half of the party now carries the other half downward.

Landing in a vast cavern filled with loot and treasure, the party spread out to find their foe. Cassius wishes for a Hallow of lightning resistance to limit the expected breath attacks. Then Irsecrinth strikes from the shadows, but the attack is thwarted by a Temporal Shunt from Morennel. A suprisingly one sided battle ensues, as being Shunted and Hurled through Hell allows the party to stay on top of the ancient dragon and land blow after blow. It is Skuld that delivers the first death blow, his warpick cracking down upon the great beast's skull, but this activates his Tempest form.

The Carnelian Prince makes his move, Thumizkreh wishing to lay claim to the leadership of the Creed and usurp his longtime rival, and breaches the ancient dragon's lair. Spotting Cassius floating nearby, the red dragon attacks with tail and claw trying to lay the sorcerer low. Seeing opportunity in the chaos, Irsecrinth makes a bid for freedom and narrowly escapes death at the hand of Ronan's guardian of faith. Skuld grabs hold of both Ronan and Fonteyne, giving chase on foot, but a beam of lightning blasts all three and knocks down the distant Morennel. Ronan and Fonteyne both join the drow in unconciousness, causing the party to despair, but Paiven evens the score with a trio of well placed blasts that disperse the Tempest Ascendant and slay the Indigo Prince for the final time.

Vaedryn, Cassius, and the Deva do battle with Thumizkreh some eighty feet in the air. Skuld rushes to aid Ronan, before turning his attention to Vaedryn as the Drow plummets from the sky once more, but even in his giant form he has not the speed. Cassius restores the Firbolg, who tends to Vaedryn, whilst the red dragon unleashes a flame breath the leaves both Cassius and Skuld on their last legs. But it is Cassius that delivers the last remark, a bolt of radiance piercing the dragon's hide and wreathing him in holy fire, and - once the rest of the party are healed - the lair of Irsecrinth grows quiet.

Loot is divided, a horde fit for even the gods, and the party returns to Whittengrove. The fallen heroes of Viridell now avenged, its Wayfinder Stones recovered, and The Creed of Kaleios's efforts truly thwarted.

## (16/5/2021) 8 WD, Otealt-Greencrown

* Velkyn Cormrael
* Alura Nightveil
* Zummaris
* The Forsaken Blade †
* Ajax †
* Redmane
* Alabaster Velveteen

The party begins its journey north, along the way encountering a herd of Reindeer. Zummaris and Velkyn ask the deers’ leader, a large blue stag named Aspen, for directions, as Ajax ruminates on killing and eating the herd. Later that day, the party also encounters a baby yeti as it kills a rabbit and quickly press on, hoping not to encounter the child’s mother.

Finally, the party encounters a pair of snowy owlbears. After a fireball, several stabs, jabs and slashes, and a brief period where Ajax goes down, the party decides to settle in for the night in *Leomund’s Tiny Hut*. Zummaris watches as neighboring wolves come to pick the owlbear bones clean.

After some issues with the cold from Velkyn and Alura losing track of the trail, the party encounters a trio of undead giants. Velkyn uses Meld into Stone to hide from their pursuers, as Zummaris and Alura flee, taking pains not to be seen. Dobryn, Stanwyck, and Ajax remain to do battle with the zombies, and all three are vanquished (though Dobryn later comes back.)

After a few days of time to regroup, Velkyn, Alura, and Zummaris meet up with two new traveling companions to continue the journey: Alabaster Velveteen, a rabbitfolk illusionist, and a tall, unshaven man who goes by Redmane. As they journey, the party encounters a group of orcs who interrogate Alabaster about mice in the area. He tricks them with an illusion, and nearby penguins reveal themselves to be micefolk in disguise.

The micefolk, Wendell and Ephraim, reveal they are in the area looking for a lost friend of theirs. They offer the party a place to stay and warm food, which the party accepts, following the mice back to their den. They have barely arrived, however, when Velkyn manages to scry on the lost mouse, who goes by the name of Isidore: he seems to be performing some sort of necromantic ritual.

The party, along with Wendell and Ephraim, enter the crypts where Velkyn had seen the ritual. As they travel through, they battle with many corpses, rising out of sarcophagi. Eventually, they reach the inner chamber where Isidore reveals that he has raised a massive giant from the dead. After a brief caster duel with Velkyn, Isidore is downed, but through his magic rises again... just in time for Wendell to slay him once and for all. The rest of the party does battle with the zombie giant, who is finally put down by Alabaster’s shadow blade.

*Loot: Osteal Spur, Mammoth Boots, Frostbitten Buckler, Kaldrvegr.*

## (23/05/2021) 8 WD, Pinnul-Greencrown

* Aenarion Quelenneth Velenthir
* Brennus Coileain
* Draelfus Dreadwyrm
* Fonteyne Howell
* Paiven
* Ronan

Seeking out further information on the Labyrinthe, the adventuring party steps forth into the city of Rydoon, utilising the Waymark within the Matron House. Finding Lady Ilana busy dealing with the results of the seeming aftermath of a drunken brawl, they note an uptick in the number of wounded individuals present - merchants, farmers and soldiers alike. Between setting bones and stitching wounds, Lady Ilana suggests that they speak to Zotle, the half-dwarf, half-dragonborn merchant that operates Third Hand Treasures, deeming him to be a purveyor of information as well as knick-knacks and trinkets. Leaving a donation of gold pieces, Ronan thanks her for the tip and her ongoing efforts and so the party sets onwards again. Aided by a chance encounter with the halfling Konon, they are guided through the remainder of Estaemarl, then through Clayrose and Drakestower until they descend the steps to Rockpool Downs - and Zotle's shack.

Surrounded by trinkets and oddities, the party plies Zotle's memories with a few gold pieces, who reports that he had encountered a *merchant* that claims to have visited the outer edge of the Labyrinthe, returning with a fossilised horn that he was looking to sell. With further plying (and further coinage), he gives them directions as dictated by his contact whom he has not seen recently. He also confirms that he had heard of an Archon, specifically Archon Roque qu Leos, leaving for the northeast with a small retinue of troops, confirming suspicions. With bartering of scale mail for a necklace of mummified elf fingers by Draelfus concluded, and others declining an unbending needle and a glass ring etched with keys capable of obscuring locks, they head for the city gates, purchasing riding horses at the stables on their way.

Riding hard along the road, come nightfall they find shelter in a tavern run by a half-orc proprietor who fails to take kindly to Fonteyne summoning his own banquet beneath their roof. Paying the owner for the cost of the food, easy coin as Draelfus remarks, come morning they find a dour-faced Aenarion awaiting them and continue along the road towards Mossholde, as directed. Just out of eyesight of the settlement, Bren uses *Seeming* to match the party's appearance to that of a patrol, utilising his *Glibness* to casually achieve a meeting with the settlement's commander, Abas. Abas laments that Bren's 'squad' are not present to reinforce the stronghold, which has suffered losses of late and as such is struggling to maintain a stalwart garrison, particularly as recruitment drives within the city are failing to yield sufficient numbers of recruits to even match the loss of more veteran soldiers. He remarks how he had hoped the same when the Archon Roque had passed through a few days prior, but bids Bren upon his mission all the same. They travel a short way northeast from the settlement before making camp for the night within Ronan's *Sanctum of Serenity.*

Come the morning, with an Autumn-infused Aenarion leading the way, they quickly stumble across a farmstead under siege by a mass of spiders being commanded by large Ettercaps with some inherent spellcasting ability. Despite Fonteyne finding himself repeatedly surrounded, and the rest of the party harried by plagues of locusts summoned from the fledging crops trampled underfoot, they strike down the monstrosities, setting ablaze what remains of the barns to destroy the eggs lingering within - as well as cremating the desiccated corpses of half a dozen farmhands hanging within webs spun between the rafters. Save for an attempted ambush by a Milfoil Stalker at a river crossing, the anthropod stunned and quickly destroyed - a well-placed final blow claimed by Archduke Ratticus the Second - the rest of the day proves uneventful. Discussing the surrounding landscape with a particularly tall and haughty pine called Trenmagne, Aenarion establishes further details to the location of the Labyrinthe, nestled in the eastern valleyside of the Savage Creek Hills, as well as confirmation that a branch of the Great Conduit appears to stretch through the woods, known as Slateloch, further to the east. After one more night beneath the stars, the party arrives at the gates of the Labyrinthe, the entranceway marked with a tessellating stonework depicted a hulking bull-headed entity covered in weeping wounds.

Choosing to leave the horses behind, the party enters the maze to find themselves locked away inside of a blood-stained chamber, which bears several closed doors. Very little discussion is required to determine the next step, as Bren spells his blood on the floor and the doors open almost immediately. The paths before them seem long and treacherous, and the group decides to use Fonteyne's paint to mark the way so that they don't get lost. Unbeknownst to them, however, Aenerion instructs his furry critters to follow the party and erase the lines, hoping to cause some mischief.

The party soon reaches another gateway, this one seemingly requiring limbs, as the party sees several scattered on the group. Despite this, Ume is able to use her magical fishing rod to maim a fish instead, bypassing the gateway. However, when Aenerion's badger is petrified, the party is alerted to a presence stalking them. Before too much can be done, two giant metal creatures attack the party. Bren summons Hubert, and the party does battle. Though Aenerion and Ume are both temporarily stunned, the party is able to defeat them both, with Draelfus finishing off the Northern beast with a particular epic smite. The party then continues further, coming across a final door marked with two corpses.

Suspecting what the goal is, the party nonetheless tries to explore their other options. Draelfus attempts to utilize the corpses that are already present, whilst Bren tries first using the metal corpses and later the horses of the corpses outside. None of these bear any fruit, but the party realizes that the metal creatures they have encountered have begun to regenerate. Though Ronan has the supplies to bring the party back, they cannot agree on the sacrifices and who will be the executioner. Draelfus and Fonteyne are considered for the task, but ultimately it is Bren and Ume who Fonteyne executes, splattering their blood on the pavement. The door opens, and the two are brought back on the other side, with Ronan, Fonteyne, and Draelfus trying their best to get them healthy once more.

The party continues past a hall of dormant statues to the a room emblazoned with a green portal. Roque is there, looming over a chained and injured Alkestis. There is a brief discussion, and Roque explains that he believes Bane is the best path forward for Rydoon. Aenerion spots Thurkaervaeri awaiting on the ceiling and aims a wand at it, just as Ume moves forwards to strike Roque.

A battle erupts, and Ume moves to try and free Alkestis as Priests swarm to attack her. Paiven, Fonteyne, and Draelfus move towards the exarch, but he rushes to the other end of the room, leaving them in the dust. Before anyone is able to stop him, the exarch absords Alkestis, turning into a large armored knight, as Roque presents him with a giant mace. A crowd of Hobgoblins, fresh from the field of battle, swarm into the field, met only seconds later by Berserkers from Valhalla, as Ronan blows a magical horn to summon them forth. Roque presents Forgemaster's Might, and offers the Firbolg a challenge. A one-on-one duel with the Exarch, with no outside interference. Ronan accepts, and the two step into Ronan's pocket dimension.

Quite upset by the departure of the Exarch, Draelfus immediately attacks Roque, though not before tossing him a javelin and challenging him to "an additional honorable single combat." Roque does not quite accept. Ume continues to battle the priests, slaying several of them. Bren transforms into an Ice Giant, laying waste to Roque as Assassains descend from the ceiling and Draelfus is forced to flee. Aenerion dispels the *Gate* before dispatching Roque with his arrows, also bringing forth a multitude of Fey creatures to aid in the battle. Paiven and Fonteyne do battle with the Hobgoblin warriors, and are soon joined by several of the Berserkers, the rest of whom move to aid Ume against the priests. With their foes defeated, Draelfus, Aenerion and Bren gather around the pocket dimension, to watch as Ronan does battle with the Exarch.

Ronan and the Exarch do battle, with Ronan taking more blows. He casts Animate Objects at 9th level, causing several ball bearings to attack the Exarch, but with a particularly hearty blow, Ronan is forced to drop concentration. Ronan recieves blow after blow from the Exarch, but before he is defeated intervention from Tohmos returns him to the whole of his health. As they continue to trade blows, Draelfus attempts to cast Shield of Faith on Ronan, but the Exarch views this as a violation of the duel's terms and wills himself free of the pocket dimension.

In the ensuing carnage, Draelfus takes flight again and the others are sent flying back, Ronan's pocket dimension breaking and sending him back into the fight. He joins Draelfus in the stairwell, as Fonteyne is knocked unconscious. It is not long until he rises, however, and the whole party gathers around the Exarch and begins to trade blows. The Exarch mostly focuses on Ronan, who is eventually dropped. Fonteyne, conflicted on whether to try and finish off the Exarch or heal Ronan, makes the choice to attack the Exarch, who withstands the blow and brings his own blade down, destroying Forgemaster's Might. Fonteyne, in retribution, strikes him down once and for all, but the damage is done, as Ronan wakes up to see the Hammer destroyed.

*Loot: Alkestis's Armor (+1 Plate), Vermillion, Fading Vision*

## (31/05/2021) 8 WD, Jas-Highreign

* Alura Nightveil
* Dovruk
* Fafnir Lutgehr
* Favored
* Hassk
* Zummaris

Arriving later:

* Therikles

Bound for Covengrove via Rydoon, the party materialises in the basement of the Matron House, providing a few opportunities for its members. While Dovruk briefly catches up with Pelagon, Hassk spends some time off to one side with Ilana discussing the nature of being - the ongoing and constant conflict between his Yuan-Ti form, and the divine soul contained with it. With conversation focusing primarily on accepting the evil and good of his form, Ilana acknowledges that true strength and nobility is surely overcoming the former and embracing the latter. She refutes the idea that Hassk's entirety is simply another ploy of Ophidian, but cannot say for certain as to why he has come to be in such a manner - instead simply suggesting that perhaps he will find his answer in the place where each aspect of his came to be, and now that he simply has to choose which one to fully espouse. Thanking her, Hassk makes a generous donation to the Matron House, and the party continues to travel through the city - stopping on the periphery of the Radiant Heart District, at Onyx and Ivory to buy gemstones.

Finding much delight in the *Cleansing Stone* in its entranceway, the party finds themselves further entranced, Fafnir particularly so, with Aldrudillir's novel storage system - gemstones and jewellery alike contained within pastel-tinted crystalline boxes a few inches in diameter, released with a command word and gesture. Purchasing a pair of diamonds, one of them milled in half as per Hassk's wishes, they watch as Aldrudillir transforms the remaining diamond once again into its mundane storage form, placing it upon a shelf alongside a few dozen others.

The party's final stop is that of Third Hand Trinkets, where Zotle attempts to sell Dovruk a number of oddities, before the reason for Dovruk's visit is laid plain. Having been unable to sell such an ornate painting due to the exuberant asking price of 1000gp being far beyond the reach of his usual clientele, the artwork previously mentioned by Lady Ilana is still within his store room, buried deep into the ground below the shack. Unfurling the painting, Dovruk is overcome with joy to gaze upon it - and upon the enscription at its base, wholeheartedly strides another step close to unravelling the truth of Lady.

***From Soil & Stone, A New Age by Ruo Oatstalker***

*Framed with a border of woven gold leaf, the painting is six feet wide and four feet tall. Centremost within, shaped from brushstrokes of deep colour and grandeur, an elven figure clad in ivory-pale robes trimmed with golden accents casts a slate-grey cloak adorned with similar filigree aside to raise a sphere of chiselled stone high - much to the delight and splendour of the crowd surrounding him in all directions. A trio of other figures stand atop the dias alongside him, two of them settled in gaze upon the same artifact - a gnome clad armour of clockwork bronze, a lean half-elf wreathed in full robes of the same slate-grey, with a sixteen-sided prism glimmering at his neck. Only the woman, her hair the very same spun argent silk as the centre figure's own does not hold the glance, instead looking beyond the crowd with a stalwart resolve.*

*A state visit by Archmage Virric Liatumal to show off his newest discovery, the Wayfinder Stone. Accompanied by Exaltificer Kevmorn Milltall, Fourth Magus Sarcoril Swiftdras and Viscountess Alamaria Liatumal.*

Unable to afford the asking price, he persuades Zotle to reserve it for him with a down payment of 20gp, and with it the party depart the city. Passing a number of towncriers on the way, they learn that Alkestis and Roque's deaths have been pinned on a recent Hive attack against Mightmoor Hamlet, and their demise is being used by the city to try and bolster their faltering recruitment drive. Passing by an influx of refuges and farmhands fleeing the peripheries of the Rydooni territory, they take the road south, travelling for a few days before coming across the village of Hazelglen. On the way, come nightfall at a crossroads, Dovruk offers up the name Alamaria Liatumal to Lady, who after some initial confusion seems to take great delight in recognition - slowed and confused as it initially was. Acknowledging that perhaps Lady Alamaria did not know her own name either until that moment restored a memory lost, they delight in the success together - much to Dovruk's chagrin as he wakes up much of the rest of the party.

Hazelglen is unlike the other towns and villages of Rydoon, a free-standing settlement inducted into its borders in years past in place of constructed by the command of the Hollow Concord. In recent years, its population has continued to falter, with near twice as many hovels as residents, and those that remain embittered and unimpressed at the remarks of the party regarding their intentions to put down the Dirgevale Hunters. Come nightfall, they take shelter in one of the abandoned houses, barring the door with use of Zummaris' *Tiny Hut*. Fafnir, using *Detect Magic* to scout out the hovel detects a ping of Abjuration and Transmutation in the rafters, later established to be an iron tooth etched with the syvlan rune for "D". A few hours after nightfall, Alura witnesses a roaming mist, lurching with a near-sentient intelligence that stalks through the village, its extremities reaching and clawing at doorframes, thatch roofs and cracked timber walls. To her relief, it does not enter, though the chill carried upon it gives cause to warn Hassk and Fafnir of the occurrence when time for their watch comes.

With morning creeping into view, the party set off once more, skirting just outside the tree line along the northern edge of the forest. Stopping briefly to watch a morning ritual taking place at a nearby pond choked full of twigs, leaves and bones, the villagers encountered the day before prancing in strides of three threes before casting more of the same objects into the shallow waters, the party instead decides not to intervene, and continues onwards.

Avoiding a ravenous patch of grass that attempts to bite at Zummaris' foot, the party spies a small band of slavers leading a trio of townsfolk through the edge of the forest - although as previously established by Dovruk, those within the forest find their vision peering out to be heavily obscured, and so they tail them unseen into the night. Pondering upon Cribur's encounters with Lady, Dovruk comes to the sudden dawning realisation that the slavers may be lycanthropes, given the affliction suffered by the orc before being cured by Lady Ilana. They proceed with further caution, making preparations on how best to deal damage to such foes.

With Favored, Dovruk and Alura growing increasingly tired, they find themselves forced to enter the woods in time nonetheless, gnarled trees wreathed in thickets of brambles and a cloying mist eventually giving way to reveal a graveyard watched over by a weathered statue and a singular spired mausoleum. Fickle and in a state of perpetual ruin, the ground gives way beneath Hassk, casting him into a grave, stumbling over a rotten coffin and the remains within, before clambering free. The mists swirling between the tombstones carry with them the lingering sounds of clattering chains, the grating of an iron key against a rusted lock, and a playful hummed melody hidden beneath them all. When Dovruk moves to investigate the door to the crypt, two gargoyles, previously spotted by Hassk descend from the edge of the off-centre spire, but are quickly dispatched by the party.

Having picked the lock, Hassk locks the door behind the party once more in an effort to prevent any reinforcements from arriving, and the party descends into the gloom. The walls of the first chamber had partially crumbled in, with a watchful doll clutching a silver pin observing their movements through porcelain eyes. Hassk rushes forth, attempting to sieze it up within his *Bag of Holding*, shying off attempts to control his motions before bundling the construct away. Scouting ahead, Alura follows the hummed melody, her path blocked by a group of four thugs - her first arrow shot with *Destiny* confirming their suspicions when it finds purchase by seems to deal no lasting damage. Transforming into their true Wererat forms, the party does battle, felling each in turn before they have much chance to mount a true defence. Alura continues to scout, finding herself barrelled over by a maruading Wereboar who likewise is pierced through by Hassk's *Planar Rapier*, but not before the Sorcerer is afflicted with the same curse affecting the slaver.

Following the melody, they find six coffins, confirmed not to contain anything of particular concern by use of *Detect Evil and Good*, with two amongst them chained shut. Unlocking the first, Hassk's lack of concern instead falters, finding a human child by the name of Venly within, chained in place, but treating the ordeal as some sort of delightful and charming game. When questioned on what she is waiting for, Venly offers up a simple rhyme.

*"Whisper her name, say it to the fog,"*

*"Don't say it loud, worse still to mumble,"*

*"Echoing the sound of breaking twig and bone,"*

*"Soon here comes Crooked Tallowstumble."*

Spying wrappers from small berry-flavoured candies, Hassk mixes up the last of the tincture previously created to dispel the magic used by Glaring Freda, at which Venly's demeanor suddenly changes - filled with confusion, fear and worry. Through use of tactful persuasion, Hassk takes her doll, similar in design to those previously encountered, placing "Quince" within his *Bag of Holding* too, before moving to unlock the other coffin. The gnomish boy within, Tobis, is likewise joyful and contented, but without a way to remove the sentimentality, the party instead seizes Stitches the doll from his grasp, as well as attempting to clear his pockets of any further sweets. Once again scouting ahead, Alura spies Beecham talking to an unseen figure, assuming the process to be a conversation facilitated through magic, confirming that they were expecting a visit from Crooked Dolores Tallowstumble to collect the children, while Ignar Lockfang would soon arrive to dispose of the others. The less-than-stealthy approach of the rest of the party descends them into conflict once more - alongside the roof collapsing in, a wooden coffin, its contents and a slightly confused but nonetheless enthusiastic Therikles making a grand appearance. Beecham transforms into a hulking wereboar, and with further Hunters rushing in from another chamber unseen, combat rages on - with particular use of Favored's icy *Spike Growth* combined with *Slow* cast by Hassk hampering the slavers' attempts. While his familiar repeatedly harries Beecham with streams of acid, Fafnir contests with Tobis attempting to give Venly more of the candies, eventually shaking down the child, destroying all but one of the sweets with use of *Shocking Grasp* and claiming the last to complete his research. With battle near all but concluded, Venly - whom Dovruk had suggested should count the rocks on the ground - is pulled away by the appearance of Luger, the leader of the Dirgevale Hunters, quickly revealed to be Crooked Dolores Tallowstumble in disguise. Acknowledging the threat posed, the party starts to weigh up their options, with Therikles approving of broaching a deal, Hassk seems to deign himself to such an agreement. Stepping forwards to accept the offer of a life for a life - Venly's for his own - he instead pierces the child through with his rapier, striking Tallowstumble simultaneously. Though intent on revivifying the child, he has not a chance when Tallowstumble fold the limp body in two, consuming it in a singular bite of unhinged jaws. As wrinkles upon her brow start to smooth, she embraces Hassk with a sly, horrifying grin and starts to crush him in her grasp.

With the sound of breaking bone and sundering scale, much of the party acknowledges their folly and starts to flee - leaving Hassk to his fate as they leave through the tunnel created by Therikles' entrance. While Dovruk attempts to pry his companion from the hag's grasp, he fails to do so, finding her too strong, and so with little else to fall back upon, Hassk offers up a prayer to Ilemer. With the chime of coin being spilled upon the stone, a flash of radiant light trails like a serpent through the crypt, plucking up each of the party in turn, including the bitterly complaining Tobis. Landing in a crumpled pile on the shop floor of the Golden Serpent in Whittengrove, the party sets about curing their afflictions picked up during combat - Dovruk, Favored and Hassk wounds from a Wereboar, Therikles likewise from a Wererat, as well as cleansing the mind of Tobis.

Broken, bruised and battered, the Dirgevale Hunters' operation has been undoubtedly dismantled, but with the third of the Hallowed Circle now encountered, the threat posed by the hags has never been more plain.

## (13/06/21), 8WD, Halla-Highreign

Expedition members:

* Cassius
* Draelfus Dreadwyrm
* Fonteyne Howell
* Paiven
* Ronan
* Skuld Blackiron
* Ume

Aware of the labourious journey before them, the party set out from the Echo Waymark, expediated greatly in their travels by Cassius using the spell *Wish* to emulate the effects of the *Wind Walk* Transmutation. In gaseous form, they streak through the sky to the southeast, passing by Castle Jalzazhuss, the Cicatrixes and the southern horn of the Ironfangs. Following an overgrown road north, guided somewhat by Draelfus' prior knowledge of the region while still a fully-fledged member of the Coalclaw tribe. He warns them of some lingering defences set within the entranceway, and after finding an otherwise mundane exterior entrance find themselves, now ungaseous, standing before a bridged entrance guarded by a pair of rusted and otherwise dented ballista-like constructs.

Paiven *Dimension Door*s himself and Skuld across, leaving the others to make a dash for themselves - one that only Ume manages without garnering the attention of the ancient defences, supposedly installed to dissuade maruading giants or dragons. Firing javelin-sized bolts in quick succession, Cassius takes the brunt of the first volley, though others too suffer from the ongoing artillery barrage. With the arcane ballista more heavily damaged by the ravages of time succinctly dealt with, Skuld brings about some sense of peace as he casts the second into the depths below the bridge, surmising the drop to be about five hundred feet from the time taken for the mass of bronze and iron to strike the ground beneath. Finding rest in the nearby guardtower, they leave Draelfus' summoned Giant Elk on watch.

Partway through the night, the screaming of the Giant Elk draws the party's attention once more, finding the artillery unit cast aside had slowly managed to clamber back up the cavern wall, launching a volley at the watchful summoned ruminant. Skuld, irate at being awoken blends through the wall of the watchhouse with use of his connection to the *Vertex of the Hungering Void*, casts the ballista from the battlement once more, and the party returns to rest in the newfound quiet, the distant sound of dripping water lulling them to sleep once more.

Ronan's dreams are filled with the heat of the forge, swirling mists and steams sapping at strength, mixing with sweat upon his brow. Repeatedly heating and striking the molten form of his craft against an anvil, he finds himself making little progress, for whether through fault of forge's heat or his own power, he cannot shape the metal's form to the form of his design despite every effort otherwise. Slumping in defeat, a gentle hand is placed upon his shoulder, the heat falters as a chill stirs within the room, before the forge ignites anew, burning with a silver-white flame. Metal now malleable, it begins to take form, intent to bring about a mighty hammer reforged - and yet he awakens before it is complete. Nonetheless, he feels further empowered, granted new boons by Tohmos.

With cautious optimism of the hoard awaiting them, the party presses on into the tunnels of Mol Boramm. Quickly finding the main entry atrium, a series of descending stairs weaving between ornately carved pillars depicting ever-stretching mines glimmering with gemstones and ore, they narrowly avoid a series of crude tripwire traps that Draelfus recognises as kobold handiwork. Curiously however, the lower stairs are submerged in a foot deep reservoir of befoiled water that slowly grows deeper as they continue to travel further into the depths. At a cross-section in the passageway, they come across a bloated half-disintegrating body of a kobold identified to be from the Flametalon tribe, and hear shouts and calls coming from further within. Standing between a barricaded door and a stone portcullis, a pair of kobolds of the same tribe try to break into the sealed chambers, explaining when asked that the Sootscales have locked them inside and are trying to reactivate some of the old dwarven defences having grown increasingly discontented since Thumizkreh suddenly departed the tunnels. Opening a passageway with *Stone Shape* above the water line, the party break into an old brewing quarters - and find themselves set upon by the Sootscales, as well as a pair of whirring constructs comprised of bronze and blade alike. Skuld delights in the chaos, spurned on by the voice within his newly-acquired weapon, proclaiming that the strongest kobold will make a worthy subject of Lady Zareyl. While one of the Flametalon Kobold watches from afar, that which they had previously conversed, having introduced themselves as Kuhn, fights with an unusual resiliance, failing to bleed save a thick clear sap, as well as being able to strike down his brethern with a touch from an outstretched palm. Draelfus attempts to recruit a few amongst them to his religious beliefs, commanding them to kneel before their new god, but finds little progress made as the others clear through the holed-up kobolds. With the cacophany of violence over, they scour the brewery and the wider dining halls, finding magical steins and flasks, but no such further treasures.

Guided by Kuhn as he informs that they have been waiting for their arrival, the party visits a nearby library, collecting up tomes about the history of Mol Boramm, its threats and its ales, as well as locating a dragon shaped snugglebeast bundled within a scholar's supplies. Passing by a staircase descending down into the depths of the mines, the water rising from below seemingly the source of the flooded halls, Cassius spies a shifting shape a few hundred feet down, but naught *Light* nor *Fireball* find any trace of its continued presence. Cautiously pushing onwards, the party investigates the noise of grinding metal, finding another group of Flametalon Kobolds working a series of pumps, previously intended to clear water from the depths of the mines - and now reversed in purpose. When they try to interrupt, Skuld finds himself outmatched by one of the kobolds who rotates their head through one hundred & eighty degrees without resistance to stare him down. Finding their pliable and pulpy form aberrant and foul, another fight breaks out as they butcher the pump operators, with Kuhn onlooking passively - and then guiding them further once the deed is done. The bodies of the kobolds quickly collapsing into clear sap-like glob, they make haste through the deepening water to find themselves in a huge ceremonial chamber, a hoard of gold and treasure in the centre high enough to crest the five-foot deep grime. Bioluminescence ripples through an otherwise unlit hall, though nonetheless a trailing sleek form pushes through the darkness beyond - a thrice-eyed fish-like aberration, an Aboleth. As Draelfus flies to investigate, another form descends from the ceiling, four times as large again as the other aboleth, which now fades, its illusionary nature revealed.

Akmod the Cold Devourer bids they take the gold and depart despite opening hostilities, acting seemingly passively - save in response to those that strike it first. With growing call to do so from Cassius, Paiven, Ronan and Ume, the party does as such, departing otherwise unmolested but with little more certainty on the truth of why.

## (19/06/21) 8 WD, Carrast-Highreign

Expedition members:

* Ronan
* Fafnir
* Vaedryn
* Paiven
* Dovruk
* Fonteyne
* Reginald

The party arrived in Claygate and began by making preparations for the defence and evacuation, Fafnir was setting up Alarms to get early warnings if things went wrong, meanwhile Dovruk placed some javelins spread around the settlement, Vaedryn went up in the air to scout and Ronan blessed the entire expedition party and Paiven cast Foresight on Fonteyne.

Vaedryn managed to spot the encroaching foes as the evacuation began. With the aid of the Rydoonian Legionnaires Leonard, Harper, Leonidas, Odysseus, Diogenes, Tan Steelwhisper and Ceasar and supported by the pegasus Phillipe, pulling a chariot. The evacuation was started as the hive soldiers entered inside the city walls, Fonteyne, Ronan and Vaedryn immediately went to engage them. An effort to slow them down and protect the civilians was started. Most of the civilians managed to escape, but a few were unable, killed by the hive soldiers. Things were starting to get a bit harsh, which quickly turned worse as Valaara the Wormkeeper summoned a giant Aberrant Leechworm, which quickly swallowed both Ronan and Paiven. Meanwhile, Vaedryn had his mind assaulted by several Neogis, enslaving him.

As the battle continued, Paiven and Ronan managed to escape the leechworm thanks to Dimension Door, meanwhile, the Foul Labyrinth combed through Vaedryn’s mind and realised that two legacies were held in Whittengrove.

The evacuation finished, the expedition and supporting legionnaires began to retreat, risking being overrun by the hive. In the ensuing struggle, and attempting to pick up Fonteyne, the chariot carrying two legionnaires and Reggie was brought down as Phillipe was seriously injured.

Ronan, in a desperate moment, tries to call out to Tohmos for aid, but his prayer was not heard.

With Reggie and Fonteyne surrounded, it looked like the pair of paladins might fall to the hive, but in a last ditch move, Fonteyne brought Reggie back on his feet, which allowed Reggie to bring up Phillipe, allowing them to move onwards with the chariot, escaping the grasp of the leechworm. Rapidly followed by Ronan destroying the battlefield and disabling a large swath of the foes.

Unfortunately, Vaedryn, who had just moved to aid the pair ended up being swallowed by the leechworm himself.

As the battle moved onwards, the leechworm appeared and spat out Vaedryn immediately followed by its acidic breath. Once again things looked dire as Paiven moved up and used an upcast Banishment to remove the leechworm and two other foes from the fight, allowing the party to focus the Wormkeeper. Unfortunately, the Wormkeeper struck out at Paiven, breaking the Warlock’s concentration on Banishment.

As it truly started to look bleak, Ronan used a Mass Healing Word to bring the entire party back up on their feet and immediately followed with a call from his Horn of Valhalla, surrounding the Wormkeeper.

As Dovruk rose again, at his employers word, Lady appeared once more, turning the Valaara towards her, as Dovruk rushed forwards and dealt a lethal blow to the Wormkeeper. At her moment of death, Vaedryn cast Soul Cage on her fleeting spirit, turning to Ronan, imploring him that it was time to leave. Sadly, the Soul Cage failed, as the Wormkeeper is an Aberration.

On the broken body of Valaara, Vaedryn saw the living mind of the wormkeeper, writhing, deciding it was something to bring. Shortly afterwards, the leechworm reappeared, swallowed Vaedryn, and tried to escape, with a quick strike, Fonteyne managed to halt its escape.

In the following struggle, the legionnaire Odysseus managed to fully pierce the leechworm with his spear, slaying the leechworm.

After the leechworm was slayed, Ronan cast Word of Recall, returning the expedition party, leaving Reggie, his legionnaires and the berserkers from the Horn of Valhalla to clear up the remainder, which was done with minimal effort.

In the end, the legionnaires Tan and Leonidas lost their lives

## (02/07/21) 8 WD, Carrast-Highreign - A Meeting with the Matron Mother

Expedition Members:

* Ronan
* Zareyl Arkenviir

Following the Defence of the Claygate, Zareyl organises a meeting with Umrae Jalzazhuss, promising to return the body of her mother in doing so. Leaving the Legacies under the watchful guard of Vaedryn and Skuld, she is accompanied by Ronan, teleporting to the entranceway of Castle Jalzazhuss via Morennel's newly-acquired arcane talents. With both protected by means of a precast *Death Ward* and *True Seeing,* they guided wordlessly inwards by Kalonvir Jalzazhuss, they travel through the dwarven tunnels until reaching the main atrium of the keep, a silent audience waiting before a raised dias, contained within the Matron Mother levitating just above the stone, crystal staff in hand.

Ronan passes over the body of Valaara to Kalonvir, who carries her off for sake of interment, allowing the conversation to begin. After initial acknowledgement of prior *conflicts* between those gathered, both drow accept the threat faced by the Foul Labyrinth, though discussion shifts shortly after to the magic of the Legacies. Regardless of the Foul Labyrinth's intentions, and whether he still serves Hadar, it is accepted that a powerful artifact of any kind is like to catch his attention. Even if the Foul Labyrinth seeks the Legacies only to summon and then slay Hadar in revenge for insurrection for the manipulation into a Harbinger, they once again agree that keeping them out of Dyrrn's grasp is key. With the Legacies in her possession, Zareyl proposes using the artifacts as bait to bring the Labyrinth from the depths, thus bypassing the supposedly formidable defences built around the now-infested city of Imlegroth. Umrae confirms that they have sent parties to test those defences, but to little avail, and so finds agreement that bringing the Labyrinth out is critical to their defeat. Musings are made on the location of the final Legacy, though Umrae admits they are objects she knows only through the historical tomes that existed within the castle when they first discovered the site. Remarking that its assumed possessor was being "defensive and evasive", it is remarked that it seems a worthwhile holder if keeping them secret and safe is to remain the priority.

Zareyl confirms that she does still seek the third however, for sake of being able to deplete the items of their charges and thus destroy them, a one-way trip to prevent their usage to bypass the final wards that prevent Hadar's direct encroachment unto the Prime Material Plane. With a decision made on how they will attempt to goad the Labyrinth out in the open, questions are raised with regard to location - the suggestion being Fort Arkenviir, given its connection to the Underdark and the previous operations of the denizens of the Labyrinth in the area suggestive of a proximity. Umrae remarks that she believes the Seal that once held the Body of the Labyrinth was likely in the area, hence the operations.

The final lingering question is that of the means. Zareyl asks if Umrae knows of any weakness of the Labyrinth, or rather even anything capable of dealing any substantial damage. The Matron Mother knows not, admitting that being an entity of such overworldly nature, mortal creations, however mighty, might prove ineffectual. Other solutions are suggested - hidden knowledge in the possession of the Keeper and the Locked Book might hold such answers, or perhaps using the animosity with Akmod, the Cold Devourer to turn them against each other, particularly if both came seeking the Legacies if offered out publicly. Umrae remarks that there is a potential third route, one she dissuades against, citing the fall of the Duzktlar Den after they sought aid from the Demon Lord Orcus, Prince of Undeath, hoping his mastery over death would deliver a path to the Foul Labyrinth's destruction and instead turned the Demon Lord's appetite against their own peoples.

Both Drow agree to further look into their options, seeking out additional information to aid them in their process. With a final remark regarding the Mother of Lusts ongoing interest in Umrae and the Jalzazhuss Den, Zareyl and Ronan go to depart through *Word of Recall*, only to find the main atrium is protected by means of a *Private Sanctum* spell. Travelling back to the entrance, they travel back to the Whittengrove.

Once within the Arken Den once more, Zareyl uses *Divination* to ask a series of questions, acknowledging the limitations of the spell.

"Will you send a champion to fight upon the battlefield against the Foul Labyrinth?"

*"Should the dust settle in your favour, I will have one already standing amongst the fallen."*

"Would summoning Orcus aid our efforts?"

*"There is only one Demon Lord worth trusting, and even then trust is hardly a befitting choice of word."*

"Does the Locked Book hold the secrets to defeating the Foul Labyrinth?"

*"A hoarder of secrets would not be so if they granted knowledge freely."*

## (04/07/21) 8 WD, Ardor-Highreign - Journey into Ashenvale

Expedition members:

* Vaedryn
* Aenarion (personality gone)
* Cassius (personality gone)
* Heelmelk (personality gone)
* Fafnir
* Hassk

The expedition group met up in Whittengrove, a new face among them, the Cleric Heelmelk. After introductions, it came up that Heelmelk wished to speak with Zareyl about the legacies, after getting past a small misunderstanding, he said that such a meeting might be arranged after the coming expedition, with a morbid comment about death and resurrection.

Cassius spent a moment to cast extended Death Wards on everyone, followed by Wind Walk to allow for the travel. As the expedition moved closer, they dropped down to the ground and began moving towards the fog of Ashenvale. A strange sight came before them, a breastplate stuck to a rock, as Fafnir and Hassk moved to investigate, another rock sprouted out of the ground, in reality an Earth Elemental. After a potent shockwave from the Earth Elemental and some minor struggle, Hassk struck a fatal blow to the elemental. After the fight, Fafnir and Hassk, with Cassius’ assistance, went to investigate the rock with a breastplate and recognised the rock as an Earth Elemental Myrmidon, power lost due to time. Fafnir removed the armour from the remains and Hassk put it in his bag of holding, putting what to do with it as something for the future. Cassius and Fafnir looked through both of the Earth Elementals for gems, nothing of immense value but some minor gemstones were found.

The party moved forward, getting closer to the edge of the Ashenvale, noticing a slight slope in the ground, almost imperceptible, but noticeable through the effort it induced. As they moved closer, the dark mists almost seemed to drain the light. At that point, the group decided to stop for the night, using the protections for a camp that Fafnir could provide.

During the night, sounds were heard from the Ashenvale, Aenarion heard distant screams and the echoes of battle, eerie sounds from the misty darkness. Hassk, however, heard the sounds of Whittengrove, people and farm animals, coming from the depths of the night. Fafnir didn’t hear much, aside from a rhythm, a sad melody in the distance, but still near, as if someone was right next to him and somehow also very far.

The next morning the party moved onwards, Hassk casting Detect Evil and Good and found that the ground was consecrated. As Vaedryn used Detect Magic, the surge of magic in the air was almost too much for his mind to take, but he managed to overcome it, but he couldn’t find any information about the area. Vaedryn asked whom among them are weak minded and after some back and forth, he cast Intellect Fortress on himself, Hassk and Cassius.

After a failed boasting contest about their respective faiths between Aenarion, Vaedryn and Hassk, the group decided to take the cautious approach and Aenarion sent one of his Bag of Tricks animals, a Panther, into the grasping wall, it came out, mostly fine, if drained of energy. As the rest moved onwards, the group felt the mist start to drain their energy, but all except Heelmelk seemed to resist the effect. As the group continued, it seemed like the magic in the Ashenvale temporarily empowered the weapons in the group, giving non-magical weaponry a touch of the arcane.

Onwards, the expedition discovered the remains of a small orchard and farmstead, buildings mostly intact, but the placement within the mists creating an eerie atmosphere. Within the orchard, Vaedryn found the remains of a gnomish woman wearing a strange gauntleted contraption, killed by an arrow, with what seemed like chemical burns on her skin. As Fafnir and Hassk were looking over the contraption, the Elk Aenarion had called triggered what seemed like a trap, creating a large blast of lightning, condensing into a point, moving as if alive. During the battle with the living spell, Fafnir seemed distracted by the contraption, seemingly deciding that his companions could handle the situation, he began working on removing and studying the contraption. Near where the living spell sprang up upon the party was a statue of Aita, more damaged than the surrounding areas. Finishing his investigation of the item, Fafnir found that it allows the wielder to cast spells they normally wouldn’t be able to, a Mizzium Apparatus. Thinking on the trap that was activated, Fafnir realised that it might be a Cinder Cube used as a magical mine, but he could not find any remnants of the device.

Hassk used a Scroll of Resilient Sphere to safely move around and trigger any remaining traps. Afterwards, the group spread out and began looking through the area. Vaedryn seemed enamoured with a strange crying glass humanoid statue, trying to move it after breaking it in half until he gave up and threw back the statue, shattering it in the process. Within a small windmill by the river running down the orchard, Hassk found the battered remains of a humanoid, stuck with one arm in the wheel of the windmill.

Hassk and Fafnir both found that the produce found at the farmstead was sharp, as if covered in razorblades.

Next, the party found a small crossing with a few cows and goats in pens, bordered by a couple of trees. After what the party had seen, they decided this seemed highly suspicious and rather strange. As Hassk moved up he tried to interact with one of the cows, as it exhaled a wave of acid towards the Yuan-Ti. Looking over, the horns of the Goats seemed to move like pincers. Aenarion cast Speak with Animals to attempt to communicate with the cows, but it seemed like the cows couldn’t understand him. One of the goats sneezed and seemed to release some sort of spores in the process. He then tried to communicate with the plants and once again, got no response.

In the crossing sat a sign, stating that we came from Chalimar and that the road towards the centre was the Long Divide, in addition a third direction, Inverden was shown. Cassius remembered that Inverden was a small resistance against the Astedian Empire of the past, and that the Long Divide was a river where the Siege of Iron was fought. Hassk snuck up and killed one of the Goats and collected the corpse.

Moving onwards towards the direction of the Long Divide, the group found the rotting graveyard on the battlefield of a long since fought battle. Moving forwards, the expedition felt the magic in the air shift, stripping the items they were carrying of their magic. Covered in the tattered remains of dead mages, ruined constructs and the body of a dead dragon. After spotting the remains of a Cogheart Titan, Fafnir moved forwards toward it, however, Vaedryn spotted something in the distance and told everyone to gather up and be careful. Responding, Cassius twin cast Holy Weapon for Aenarion and Vaedryn, which alerted the construct moving around the battlefield.

A wretched sight, a large metallic creature covered in spikes, upons which several corpses are impaled, including the remains of a bronze dragon. As the Collector began moving towards the light, the expedition members unleashed on it, empowering Aenarion and Vaedryn further with Haste, in return, the dragon skeleton rose from the back of the collector and approached the party with a roar. After some further combat, the spectral shapes of four knights moved from the construct and joined in the fight. After a further barrage from Vaedryn and Aenarion, Cassius struck a final blow to the Collector. The skeletal dragon and wraiths remained, as the fight continued, Aenarion finished off the wraiths with a couple of swift strikes. As if to achieve the same end as the Collector, the dragon was struck down by Cassius and as such the battle was over.

The group started looking around the battlefield and found several notable items, most seemingly nonfunctional at the moment, but still clearly magical in nature.

After looking through the battlefield, the party moved onwards towards the remains of a colossal creature, the destroyed remnants of a truly massive construct. Near the colossus was a small zone where the sky was visible, arriving at the remains of the Long Divide, the river clearly polluted. At the very centre was a strange object, emanating light towards those approaching, like small tendrils reaching out. Cassius approached it and it reached out, grasping his face and stealing his intellect and personality, leaving him a blank shell. As the Symphonic Void began to then reach out towards the rest of the group, the party sprang into action. A husk of a humanoid moved up from the water, recognised as a member of the Order of the Ostiaries by their robes. Another husk moved up from the water, this one wearing royal attire and a crown. Aenarion also had his personality ripped from him, Heelmelk rushed towards the Void in a desperate attempt to do something and his personality was also struck from him. Recognising how dire the situation is, the remaining members began to flee, with his memories gone, Aenarion went to flee as well, and Cassius took to the sky in flight. As they fled, Hassk took with him the body of King Goldlor IX, whose undead remains were no longer animated after a brief stint with Vaedryn. Aenarion was not simply fleeing however, as his instincts kicked in he alternated between viciously fighting back and running, as such Vaedryn recognised something had to be done. With some assistance from Hassk, Vaedryn managed to stop the out of control Aenarion, knocking him out.

After escaping the mists, the remaining group, tired, battered, braindead, bound, was trying to figure out how to get back. With Hassk casting Sending for Ronan, the group was picked up and returned to Whittengrove. Sadly, the Cleric lacked the power to restore their personalities, and a vision shown to the people whose memories were stolen made it clear the

Loot: Mizzium Apparatus, Vial of Paralysing gas, Ventilating Lungs, Goggles of Night, Vancian Helm, Potion of Greater Healing x3, Potion of Supreme Healing, Potion of Clairvoyance, Pearl of Power, Restorative Ointment, Myrmidon Plate Armour (damaged, 30 DT to repair), Half-Plate (slightly damaged), Arcane Propulsion Arm, Docent, +1 Longsword, Knight's Standard of Virtue, Crown of the Goldlors

## (11/7/2021) 8 WD, Loghelt-Amberlight - Expedition to Grimvern Bluff

Expedition members:

* Baz Il-Durn
* Fawn
* Paiven
* Velkyn
* Isra Ssalla
* Reginald Rutherford Roger Rodney B. Dangerfield

The Expedition Force was well prepared, beginning their morning with the purchasing of winter gear. Traveling far North to Grimvern Bluff to discern the secrets of The Locked Book. Fawn offered up a book of her own, promising that by signing their signature into it, a magic would protect them from death. All present chose to sign their lives away, some doing so on separate pages from the others. After this the party took stock of all present, noting that this mission would be undertaken by several beginning adventurers - Isra Ssalla, Rutherford Dangerfield, and

The party gathered in earnest and stepped through the mystical transporter, taking them far north. They arrived to a heavy day - thick grey and white clouds sandwiching them in between the desolate sparse flatland they were walking on. This liminal space would do little to deter their spirits as they began to push towards their destination.

With little word, they set off - lead by the experienced Paiven, though all seemed a bit unprepared to truly be the point. Quickly the weather set in, as the brave explorers were set up by a wicked white wind or snow, slowing them down before they even got up to speed. Guiding themselves more by large landmarks than by instinct, Paiven’s internal instinct seemed to be elevated by some external power. With purpose and path now set, they began to make good time through a canyon. The weather seemed to be their only foe, as they managed some distance largely unmolested for some distance. However, they soon found that nature was truly their enemy, coming upon a cliff face that would prove difficult. Most of the adventurers made easy work of the wall, using their natural arcane talents to move themselves to the top with ease, along with the less magically inclined.

Weather proved the only issue for the group as they made plans for a camp. The light finally died for the day, leaving the adventures no choice but to rest. A Tiny Hut was summoned by Velkyn Cormreal for the group to stay the evening in. The quarters for the night proved claustrophobic with so many persons staying in such a small space.

Velkyn took the first watch, passing the time with his own thoughts of deep contemplation. Next came the watch of the new comer, Isra Ssalla. Like Velkyn, she was spared any danger, finding her only companion in the night to be Riaryn, her Moorbounder. The human, Rutherford Dangerfield, took third watch in the night, accompanied by the winds alone. He spotted a light not too far from camp, shifting ever so slightly. He kept his eye upon on it, but said nothing as the light disappeared not long after. However, it quickly reappeared a top the cliffside near camp. Rutherford attempted to sound the alarm with his harmonica, but was unable to awaken anyone. He retreated to the Hut to awaken Velkyn. The awakened Elf sprung to action, attempting to awaken Paiven before choosing to awaken the whole party by dispelling the Hut. All were awoken, save Baz. Velkyn launched a barraged of Eldritch Blasts, followed by Fawn as the two laid into their watcher. This did not fell the creature, who moved closer to the camp and attacked, though Rutherford and Fawn managed to evade the deadly blast. Paiven quickly counter with some Eldritch Blasts of his own, finishing off the watcher. Velkyn was able to discern it was some sort of undead creature as the corpse began to melt under its cold weather gear. Baz, now awake, attempts to subjugate the dead thing, to no avail. Baz volunteered the last watch of the night, finding himself as alone as the first two watches.

In the morning they found the snow hand not let off, another heavy day was in store. Their morning was quiet, as once again the weather proved their greatest adversary. Paiven guided the group through some cracks and crags that dotted the land. Unfortunately, the deep snowfall had made the land difficult to pass and Paiven lost his footing. Realizing that navigation would be difficult going forward, Isra cast Light upon Rutherford’s Clockwork Scribe to give the group a center of light to keep themselves on the straight and narrow. They discovered themselves to be along the edge of a narrow but deep gorge. Isra and her Moorbounder made short work of it, leaping across the gorge. A rotted, ice covered tree trunk proved the alternative way across. Thinking quickly, Velkyn enlisted Isra to turn the wood over so that the ice covered top was now on the bottom. It was not perfect, and Isra moved to adjust it again. Rutherford moved to traverse next, but a rotted spot of wood sent him plummeting into the ravine. Isra followed him down, and removed him from his position. The others had little issue crossing the gorge.

The world around them continued to stretch out before them as they ventured further and further North. A long, blinding white stretch of snow with slopes so gradual they seemed impossible to detect. As they bared on, however, they came upon a band of marching orcs, seemingly familiar to Velkyn from a previous encounter. They were quickly spotted by the Orcs. Springing into action, Velkyn and Paiven dispatched the Orcs before they could even get within melee range.

Following this, they travelled onwards, discovering the remains of an igloo with a very visible bloody trail. An opening in the ice, possibly for ice fishing, was found not far from the bloody trail, along with some fishing equipment. Investigating the igloo itself, revealed a ghastly story of an occupant who most likely died in fear, dragged from their home.

As they encircled the igloo, Rutherford was taken under the water suddenly by a Brine Angier. The Warlocks quickly sprang to action as Isra dove in after the human scribe, followed by Baz. After several violent hits, the Brine released Rutherford and retreated further under the water. The three swimmers surfaced and quickly had to get dry. After a moment to regroup they set off again. They soon found a strange trail in the snows, and met a Chwinga. Fawn offered the creature a biscuit, turning the food invisible upon biting it. After this they settled in for the night.

Fawn discovered that the Chwinga had turned all her food invisible. Attempting to dine upon her translucent travel bites, Fawn HERSELF became invisible. Though she seemed unfazed and ate on. Her corporealness returned in the night.

The snow continued on into the morning as the final leg of the journey began. They moved throughout the morning with little issue, approaching Girmvern Bluff. Upon reaching the base of the peak, they found a vague path leading towards the Bluff. Trophies dangled upon tree branches - heads of boars, completely decay, dotted the way. Further on, a dead Goliath, starved to death against a tree.

A palisade wall covered an orc war camp that the party came upon, moving in quietly. The White Tusk Tribe Clan seemed to be practicing the sacrifice of creatures, sentient or otherwise.A particularly large Orc caught their eye as he emerged from the caverns to take a living elk inside, dragging the creature behind him.

Conversation of strategies quickly followed, some proposing diplomacy whilst others favored stealth and deception. Ultimately, it was Baz who broke the tension - summoning a Barlgura Demon in the center of the camp. As this occurred, a giant bat ridden by an orc took off from the mountain. Quickly, Velkyn sprang to action - killing the Orc closest to the party, followed by Paiven, who moved further into the camp. Fawn fed Rutherford a bit of invisible food, allowing him to move into the camp and blast an orc with Thuderwave. Isra came across next, moving to attack the orc that Rutherford had, knocking him unconscious.

Baz finished off that orc before moving further into the camp. Velkyn launched a fireball far into the camp as the Barlgura took on an orc priest. The lead Orc emerged once more, casting Sleet Storm, centered on himself, the storm seeming to move with him. Paiven made short work of the bat, killing it and damaging its rider severely, before finishing off another Orc with Crown of Stars. The orcs began to mount a meager counter attack, but the adventurers proved much more powerful, dodging there way through many attacks.

The mages of the orcs quickly grew tired of this and cast ice storm, centered upon Fawn, Rutherford, Baz, and Velkyn, The icy winds overtook them all, Baz barely holding his control over the Barlgura. An ambush came for Paiven, though it proved poor. Rutherford escape the blizzard, passing some inspiration to Baz before attempting to alleviate Paiven’s poor position. Drums in the deep began to beat, giving the orcs a vigor they had not possessed prior.

Reinforcements began to pour from the mountain, meaning to bolster the position of the Tribe Clan. A second rider and its bat overhead. The power of the moon barring down upon Isra, by a Dragonborn Druid fighting alongside the orcs.

Baz however, was not deterred, breaking out from the storm to reinforce their northern flank. The southern theatre continued an onslaught, with Paiven and Isra bravely staving off a horde of orcs emerging from their coverings. In the center of the field, the Barlgura and orc priest continued their impressive battle of brain and brawn. The Barlgura seemingly finished off the priest and leapt across the cold river, making a push against the orc camp.

An orcish commander came out from a tent and rallied his men to brutalize Paiven. Velkyn dispelled the storm around him and moved to recover in the back with Fawn. Hvik Scarlerime, the lead Orc moved across the middle of the field, pursuing the one who had dispelled his magic. Paiven meanwhile, bravely held the line against an entire band’s worth of orc warriors. A second ice storm was summoned hitting Fawn, Rutherford, Velkyn, and Isra. Hvik closed the distance to Velkyn.

The Barlgura took several brutalizing hits on the north front whilst Paiven continued to hold the line on the south. Fawn countered the moon with the sun, attempting to alleviate Paiven’s perilous position. The secondary bat rider then attempted to undue to the boisterous bard, but badly blundered.

The paladin Isra moved next, looking to dazzle all with a display of light flaring up wildly, blinding an orc. Following this, she retreated to reinforce Velkyn. Hvik, in turn, attacked Velkyn. Meanwhile, the Barlgura continued to brutal push further into the orcish camp, seemingly the only one making headway. However, his push was cut short and the Barlgura was destroyed. An orc commander attempted to end Rutherford, but had his sword thrown from his hands by the bard.

Velkyn, in a perilous position, attempted to maneuver around Hvik, using smoke and fire to obscure himself. Velkyn managed to force Hvik’s hand, and he dropped his blade to the ground.

Paiven took down the second bat, before changing targets to assist Rutherford. The second snow storm stopped, leaving Hvik uncovered. However, the druid quickly summoned a third, battering Velkyn and Isra, as well as Hvik. Fawn, hidden in the fauna, fired another sunbeam, freeing Rutherford and Paiven from the prior encounters.

Rutherford used bardic magic to take command of the Orc attacking him before retreating as a secondary band moved upon Paiven. The second bat’s rider, who survived the fall, also moved to kill the Warlock.

Isra bonded herself to Velkyn as they continued to weather the storm that was the power of Hvik. Baz, entirely alone north of the sleet storm, summoned a shadow spirit on the other side of the fog cloud to reinforce Paiven. The spirit let out a wailing scream, terrifying all of the Orcs surrounding Paiven. The orc blade under Rutherford’s control moved on his former allies. Velkyn in the Sleet Storm, grabbed at Hvik’s ice blade that he had dropped, taking the cold blade in hand. Hvik attempted to grapple the blade back, ripping the blade from Velkyn’s hand and stabbing him with it.

Looking to finish off the Orc Army - Paiven absorbed himself in a Fireball, wiping out the orcs around him. He then turned his attention to Hvik and throws a Crown of Stars, hitting the orc leader. This did little to deter him, sadly, as he knocked Velkyn down (though not without getting some retribution damage in).

In the northern theatre, Baz was quickly over whelmed by a swarm who were able to pass from the defeat of the Barlgura. Fawn cleaned up the few remaining southern forces, including the orc under Rutherford’s influence. A sole Dragonborn Druid remained, withstanding Rutherford’s psychic attack.

Isra used her Paladin prowess to bring Velkyn back from the shroud of the veil that was ready to take him. Hvik, seeing the turn of battle was against him, began to flee, though he was intercepted by Baz, cutting him off with the Spirit. Velkyn rallied, attacking the druid holding the sleet storm spell.

Hvik crossed the river, freezing the river to make a path directly to his caverns. Paiven rallied, pushing forward and killing the druid sustaining the storm. He then fired upon Hvik, battering the retreating orc, hurling the leader through Hell.

All did not spell victory for the party, as Baz finally fell to the remaining Orcs, saved only by Fawn’s book. Fawn, meanwhile, began to rush the southern walk way, killing the druid guarding the way.

Isra moved down to Baz, backing up the badly beaten Warlock. Disposing of the last warriors, the party prepared for the return of Hvik. Hvik reappeared after being hurled, immediately being set upon by Velkyn and Paiven. Fawn followed up their fury, disposing of Hvik with a final Eldritch Blast.

Regrouping at the entrance, the group took a moment to steady themselves before looting the camp - finding potions, religious texts, and weapons. However, after finishing their moment of reprieve, a voice crept from the cave, attempting to dissuade or encourage entrance - it’s motivation unclear.

A teleportation circle nearby was discovered and recovered by Velkyn and Paiven, with the party retreating.

"Ah, another band filled with folly comes. Many have sought the key, yet the key is unwilling." - The words heard by the party.

## 19/07/2021 8 WD, Glede-Amberlight: Netherime and the Seal of the Locked Book

Expedition Members:

* Imir
* Fonteyne
* Draelfus
* Fawn
* Hassk
* Isra
* Aphyllia

After some final preparations, the expedition moved out, Fawn casting Teleportation Circle to give the group efficient means to return to Netherime. Upon arrival the weather was not kind, vicious winds and freezing cold as the blizzard met the party. The group decided to look through the surrounding areas before delving deeper into the mountain. Tactical reconnaissance is useful, you know? Definitely not just trying to get Aphyllia Shapechanger.

After a short traipse, the group found themselves at the camp where they started, Aphyllia clearly having trouble navigating in the blizzard. Some light conversation ensued, reminding the party of the potential difficulties in communication due to Aphyllia not speaking common. A second attempt, a further traipse and the group came across a terrified mammoth covered in blood. Attempts by Aphyllia to calm it seemingly failed, despite her Dryad heritage. Further, she asked a nearby tree to ascertain what happened to the mammoth, whilst Hassk was looking through the tracks trying to find clues for the same. Something catching his attention, he jumped away just in time as the wounded mammoth fell from the sky. Looking up it seemed like the blizzard was moving as if there was a disturbance within. Soon after, a group of three horned creatures, covered in scales and fur moved up towards the dead mammoth. Draelfus quickly sprang to action, attacking the creatures and killing one of them. Another quickly struck back at Draelfus’ steed vanished in a stream of ice whilst Draelfu himself was frozen in place, the two remaining ones then moved up towards the mammoth seemingly with intent to eat it.

Seeing the two remaining Frosthunters move towards the mammoth, Hassk decided these did not seem hostile and decided to attempt to communicate such, speaking draconic to the creatures, stating they need not fight us. They seemed to understand, but no response was made.

As Fonteyne moved to free Draelfus, Gelidrax appeared, lifting the mammoth and flying away. Draelfus teleported out of his frozen prison and flew towards the dragon, giving chase after his quarry. As the Frosthunters escaped, Hassk swiftly joined Draelfus in the chase, teleporting on top of the dragon and dealing a fierce strike to the dragon. Fonteyne followed, Vermillion biting deep into the dragon, as Gelidrax began to fight back. Vicious claws, tail and teeth and the terrifying presence of a dragon. As the dragon ascended into the blizzard, Imir began to follow and Fawn struck the dragon with a mot of starlight, with some assistance from Aphyllia. Up in the depths of the blizzard, the battle between the party and the ascending dragon, Gelidrax raged on until Hassk channeled the power of the Moorcrown, he felt a slight backlash from the Finger of Death, causing pain and momentarily blurring his vision, leaving a small wound on his hand. As his vision cleared, he saw the dragon’s wings still, as the now lifeless body plummeted towards the ground. Draelfus tried to catch the falling Yuan-Ti, but could not quite manage, as Hassk followed and hit the ground after the dragon. Aphyllia healed Hassk after the fall as Draelfus spoke a prayer over the slain wyrm, followed by taking some blood of the fallen dragon. The party looked over the dragon, after which they moved back towards the camp.

Fawn suggested that the group could move back to rest and then return in the morning, but after constructing a tent, Fonteyne was highly unapproving of the suggestion. The group partook in a Heroes’ Feast, thanks to Apyllia, strengthening them for the coming day. After making clear that he would not allow anyone besides Fawn and Hamilton into his tent, the remainder of the group took shelter within the shabby tents in the camp.

Upon the next day, the expedition continued into the tunnels, looking through emptied tunnels filled with tents, with Hassk trying to use the Homonculus of Ealwant to find a path, alas to no success. Moving through the tunnel, the group found the dead corpse of a frost giant and the impaled corpse of a dead orc. Aside from that, the tunnels were eerily empty. Moving further, the group encountered a sleeping troll, waking it up from its nap on the bones of the dead. Isra tried unsuccessfully to reason with it, stating that the party was not there to fight it, but as the remaining members of the party proceeded to attack it, it seemed that a fight was inevitable. Using his connection to Ilemer, Hassk cast Tongues to try to communicate with the troll, intent on finding out where the dragon Chylzrad.

The troll gave a suggested route, after which the party moved in that direction, Hassk thanking the troll and giving it some food, Isra also thanked the troll and gave a short but sincere attempt at persuading it to accept Emes and his teachings.

Moving towards where the troll indicated, the group found a room with a strange frozen structure. Imir moved up and broke the structure, letting loose a strange shard, which she picked up, but any attempt to investigate was interrupted by a pair of Ice Golems. One of them struck a harsh blow to Fonteyne, damaging one of his legs and slowing the movements of the Paladin. As the battle raged on, blows struck on both sides, Hassk noted that the creatures seemed weak to the damage from his Booming Blade, after which Imir swiftly followed with her own. One of the creatures was struck down by Aphyllia and as the other tried to move after being struck by Imir’s Booming Blade the lingering effect caused it to shatter.

After looking around for a short bit and healing up momentarily, the group moved on. Delving deeper, the group saw a small group of Kobolds as well as the remains of a mammoth, as Fonteyne moved through the slick tunnel, he lost his footing and ended up falling in front of the mammoth carcass. Hassk talked to them, figuring out that they leave tributes to Chylrad, and asking them where to leave such tributes. The Kobold pointed Hassk in the direction towards the dragon as the rest of the party moved into the room. Shortly after moving into the room, a smaller white dragon appeared from a corpse, but returned to eating after the Kobold Hassk spoke to said the party were here to give diamonds to the master. Moving through the tunnel, the expedition spotted several more dragons, all much smaller than Gelidrax, but they left the party alone. Moving through, the group found a room with several dead acolytes, draped in the garb of those who follow the Keeper. Seemingly killed by mundane means, weaponry and the cold. Aphyllia transformed into a Silver Dragon and then used the acquired polymorph powers to turn back into her regular appearance.

Further on, past a long slide the group found a large room filled with fiends and a warlock, all frozen in the walls. Hassk used Detect Thoughts and realised the warlock was alive, in frantic panic and thoughts on how to escape in their mind.

Past that room, the group found a large icy cavern, more frozen creatures and the large shape of the Ashen Prince in a frozen orb. As they moved further, a voice echoed in their mind “As I said, the key is unwilling.”

A short discussion ensued, pondering whether the dragon is the key and if so, whether it’s needed alive. Hassk brought up how, if that was the case, Chylzrad could be brought back in a weakened state. That over, the group prepared for combat, starting with Aphyllia turning into a Gold Dragon and using its fire breath. The ancient wyrm quickly started by causing a mass of fog to spawn over itself as it charged Imir. A fierce fight followed, as the dragon stood strong against the party, Hassk moved in, taunting the dragon by saying: "I can't believe Gelidrax was your spawn, he was so weak!"

Draelfus noticed a psychic wall, blocking the path deeper, by accidentally flying into it.

What quickly followed was the dragon unleashing its breath weapon on the party, hitting Fonteyne, Fawn Imir and Fonteyne.

The white dragon then summoned a wall of ice to block off Fonteyne, but the wall was quickly shattered by Fawn.

Vicious blows on both sides, as the dragon was wounded, it struck back in kind, damaging Fonteyne’s left arm. Hamilton, recognising that he would fall soon, flew up to allow his master to jump on top of the dragon, after which he was swiftly slain by the wyrm.

As Imir moved up again to strike at the dragon, Hassk joined the struggle, giving a little quip to Fonteyne “Need some help, dragonslayer?” and thrusts Fool’s Avarice through the jaw as the blade extends and rips through the skull of the dragon.

After the dragon fell to the ground, a voice, once again, spoke in the heads of our heroes “Well, that was certainly something”. Hassk asked the voice who it is, to which the voice responded “I am the key”.

After the battle, the party began investigating the wall for a way forward, when the voice suggested that a deal could be struck. The voice didn’t want the Locked Book to be released.

The Key was found to be a sentient weapon, a small blade with a malign presence. Further conversation showed that it loves chaos and hates the Keeper, nothing more, nothing less. As the conversation continued with asking what we could do to have it help us, it suggested killing Aita, Ilemer or Theamera would suffice, in exchange for opening the way “a swing is all it would take”. As Hassk tried to strike the wall, the blade turned on him. Aphyllia, in response, turned into a Planetar and picked up the dagger to try again, successfully bending the blade to her will to force it through the wall, breaking it.

Fonteyne seemed inclined to hold the dagger for safekeeping, unwilling to leave a weapon that can kill a god for someone else, Hassk made the suggestion that if it could kill a god, maybe it could kill the Darkbringer.

Upon hearing Fonteyne would not want to kill a god, Imir was confused and asked if he was not a part in the demise of the Storm of Rust, and if he was willing to kill one god, why not another. Isra brought the sentiment that not all gods are the same, to which Imir disagreed.

Moving forward, past the discussion, Hassk put the Key in his Bag of Holding, as they all moved forward into the room of the seal. Hassk proceeded to ask Fonteyne how these seals are opened, to which he explained that one needs to remove or destroy the Wayfinder Stones that support the seal. A discussion on the release of the Locked Book ensued, but the party decided that, seeing as the Locked Book was likely in a catatonic state similar to Aenarion, Heelmelk and Cas, it seemed safer to release him and bring him back to Whittengrove for safety. Upon release, he was a blank slate, much like those previously mentioned. As the seal was opened, the room began to crumble and the party moved out and back to Whittengrove, to figure out their next step and divide the loot.

**Artifacts:**

* Discourse
* Soul Sliver
* Hoarfrost Fragment

**Books:**

* The Exiled Exile
* Doctrines of the Order

**Magic Items:**

* Plate Armour of Resistance, Necrotic (6000gp)
* Battering Shield (2500gp)
* Beads of Meditation (4000gp)
* Bell Branch (4000gp)
* Diviner's Dice (5000gp)
* Gauntlets of Deliverance (1800gp)
* Glove of the Aegis (4000gp)
* Magebane Poison (750gp)
* Nature's Mantle (1500gp)
* Potion of Speed (250gp)
* Ring of Anchoring (1500gp)
* Wayfinder Stones x 5

Value of Magic Items: 31300gp

**Scrolls:**

* Scroll of Bless (35gp)
* Scroll of Dragon's Breath (75gp)
* Scroll of Knock (75gp)
* Scroll of Legend Lore (500gp)
* Scroll of Protection from Energy (150gp)
* Scroll of Rope Trick (75gp)
* Scroll of Wall of Force (500gp)
* Scroll of Water Walk (150gp)

Value of Scrolls: 1560gp

**Treasures & General Loot:**

* Diamonds (5000gp, 1500gp, 500gp x 2, 300gp x 4)
* Coinage & Trade Bars (18000gp)
* Whale Bone & Ivory Statues (Small, 500gp x 3), (Medium, 1000gp x 1), (Large 2500gp x 1)

Value of Treasures & General Loot: 31700gp

Total Value of All (assuming everything sold): 64560gp

## 20/07/2021 - 8 WD, Carrast-Highreign - A Journey to Elysium

Expedition Members

* Aphyllia
* Ronan
* Fawn
* Aenarion (Personality Restored)

Aphyllia wasted little time to track down the Cleric Ronan to discuss how to restore fallen allies. After a brief discussion of how to go about communicating, Ronan inquired further. An item, storing the personality of Aenorian, Aphyllia tells the story of the vision she had, warning it would be a taxing event to restore their body. As Aphyllia further recalled the vision she realized the true undertaking this quest would be. Ronan assured her this was good news, suspecting the Locked Book could provide more. He worries that this next quest will not restore Aenarion as they initially believed. They moved to get Anaerion and begin their journey. Fawn, working in her bakery, would join them, under the promise the trip from Ronan. It was a damp cell they retrieved Anaerion from. From there, they were pulled to the skies as Ronan cast Plane Shift.

Upon the Slopes of Elysium they are greeted, a feeling of euphoria overtaking them. The Warden ascends them further into the realm, bringing with it all beautiful imagery an iconography, as well as a cacophony of beautiful music. Reaching the peak of Heaven themselves, they are met by angels of seeming molten bronze of a size able to tower even the greatest among the party. Words failed to describe the beauty and grace of the sights before the party as a warmth overtook them, a seeming theme in the Plane. Even then, these creatures were dwarfed by the size of the one they searched for. This might best seemed to even calm the scattered mind of Anaerion.

Ronan moved first, humbling himself before the one he called Master, with a request for guidance. Tohmos, the great Deity, greeted them in kind. The voice of the God, familiar and intimate was a verbal massage upon the ears, lulling all into a sense of security and safety as fog and euphoria continued to fog the mind, bringing a warm peace in the heart.

Xorithromlax the dragon appeared, Tohmos disclosed she had been watching those present for some time.After some soliloquy, Tohmos asked Ronan speak his true mission. Ronan in return asked with all the humility and respect such a being deserved, for assistance in restoring Aenarion, his mind lost to The Keeper. Before answering this first request, Tohmos inquired to Ronan’s second desire. Ronan disclosed his wish to restore Tohmos’ weapon so that he could become a true champion.

The world began to shift around them, stone and cloud shifting about them all. The Devas moved together, forming a circle around The Imperiun Forge. Brilliant light and color, warm and holy in its design, rose and lit the area. The Forge itself seemed made of the Devas and Planetars. Ronan moved into the forge itself. Xori flanked Ronan at his right as he approached. Ronan acknowledged his friend, requesting that the dragon do him the honor of having its flame light the flames of the forge. Without a word the dragon turned to the forge’s center and exhaled a radiant flame into the Forge, stoking the flames to an intense heat. Ronan wasted little time as the forge was light, beginning to end of a long quest. The light and heat swirled around Ronan as he toiled, mortal tools upon a Divine Forge. Every single strike measured and known, as if mistake was something unknown to the lands. Ronan’s work was methodical, never relenting, each strike a song in and of itself. The molten metal beneath him seemed to move on its own. Then, his hammer slipped, hitting the ground beneath him. Hesitation and doubt broke the tension before Xori returned the hammer to his hands. Now, ever strike, measured and known was filled with purpose. Mortal tools upon a Divine Forge began to shape the molten orb. Every single strike measured and known, as if mistake was something unknown to the lands he finished his work. Sweat upon his brow, the reforged weapon a Pride in his hands.

The semi-molten war hammer rose high above Ronan’s head as the toil of work was fully on display. The divine weapon seemed weightless in his hands as he tested his creation. Behind him the Forge fell to slumber, silver and light fading away back under the cloud. The dragon’s soul within the hammer, Ronan’s power was awesome to behold.

With Pride forged, Tohmos turned his attention to the mindless one. He offered advice of how to retrieve the mind of Ronan’s old friend. Ronan affirmed his resolve to retrieve his lost friend, vowing to find the “Shard” of Aenarion that had been scattered and lost. Ronan then mentioned a plane of memory, all things lost. Hearing this Tohmos requested the Ronan not travel to this place just for Aenarion, believing that place evil and dangerous.

Tohmos instead offered a deal - Ronan would pledge himself entirely, and upon his death replace Xori’s soul inside Forgemaster’s Pride. In return, Tohmos would return Aenarion. Without hesitation, Ronan agreed. A mechanical creature, with a large eye for a head appeared.

Standing back with the others, Aenarion perked up, awake and aware. Aenarion was rather bashful, teleporting to his friend and embracing him. Ronan greeted his friend in kind, without regret. Aenarion swore an eternal debt to Ronan, claiming it more than anything he deserved. After further assurance of each other and their friendship, Aenarion turned his attention to Tohmos. Ronan thanked his Deity again. Tohmos regarded his champion, reminding him “Many fragments may forge a masterwork.”

The group then felt a gentle push as they descended the clouds, surrounding by red rivers, vivid in their imagery. A silver lake rushing up to meet them. They feel a pull in the air towards it. A moment later they stood at the forge in Whittengrove.

Ronan moved to Fawn, thanking her for her help, and gifting her Fury, his old mace. Fawn then explained to Aenarion she was granted to power to make the tuning fork that brought them to the Elysium planes. Aenarion in turn, moved to hand her something to prove his gratitude. He discovered himself in small clothes. Aphyllia moved passed, handing Fawn Aenarion’s Grey Bag of Tricks. Aphyllia then embraced the restored Aenarion.

## 15/08/2021 - 8 WD, Vluk-Whiterose - Return to the Ender Temple

* Haask
* Zareyl
* Eldarion
* Fafnir
* Dovruk
* Brooneau

With their return to the Ender Temple imminent;  many of the party members stock up on potions and Fafnir casts Aid on himself, Brooneau and Haask. Morinell teleports the group back into the jungle.

They approach the Ender Temple, a huge monolithic structure being consumed by the vines and watery underbed of the jungle. As they move closer Eldarion notices that the gargoyle structures decorating the temple seem to be a lot more beast than structure. The party develop a plan of approach in which Zareyl, Haask and Eldarion make themselves to appear as High status Yuan-ti (or other Yuan-ti) with the other party members appearing as new slaves, shackled and beaten. Zareyl pulls out her whip and commits to the role with gusto, as they make their way towards the entrance.

With little resistance from the lower status guards the party manage to make their way inside, narrowly avoiding confrontation from some Yuan-ti via some quick deception the party make their way down the levels of the temple. The goal being to reach the bottom level, Haask's mothers chambers.

As they make their way down to the bathing chambers, two abominations sleep while another waits behind an illuionary wall. Upon their entrance the Abomination elects to take the slaves to the cells himself. With resistance as the Abomination tries to feed Dov some kind of potion fighting breaks out. As Zareyl casts silence in the area the group fight trying to maintain a stealth approach, it is unltimatly thworted however as the Abomination throws his weapon to awake his sleeping Yuan-ti and Malison patrols make their way to the area. Spells are flung as the skirmish devolves into bloody mess as many Yuan-ti are beaten, Gravity sinkholed, Firestormed, webbed and pellted with arrows.

As the party take a slight respite to recover from a hefty fight Haask hears his mother call to him, *She is waiting*. With the remaining levels of the Temple all but cleared out the party move downwards with haste and after killing a guard slime find a prison cell with 4 wounded individuals. After accusations are thrown one of the prisoners is revealed to be a Yuan-ti spy, discovered by a test of poison by Haask. The other 3 are released under the promise they will help in the coming fight. An elf Mialee and dwarves Wulfram and Albrich heal up, explaining they were *prospecting* the temple before they got caught. Dov also notices that Mialee has an uncanning resemblance to Illana of the Matron House.

The party move down to the lowest level, a large chamber flooded with water and plagued by snakes say for a circular structure in the centre. Present is Haasks mother; Seena, Shek healed from the partys last run-in and a lifeless guardian Naga. Seena speaks of the ritual of Defilement that created Haask and her dissapointment that he does not live upto his potential, but no matter as she their is another, *"say hello to your brother"* as she pours black blood onto the corpse of the Naga, the final step of the ritual a Yuanti Champion raises out of the water, with similar colouration to Haask though larger and with a serpentain tail, Nazsski.

As fighting erupts, it is made clear that none will be spared should they falter as Shek casts circle of death on all of them. Naaski threatens a finger of death at Dov emploring Haask to return to them or watch his friends die. He is however counterspelled by Fafnir.

Believing themselves out of their depth, their new elven and dwarven companions flee. Though the party continue, chipping away at Nazzski's resolve, Eldarion, Fafnir and Brooneu flinging arrow and firebolts, Dov transformed into a giant ape by Zareyl and Haask ever defient. In his frustration the basilisk attempts to Metoer swarm the temple but is counterspelled by his brother.

Seeing an opportunity, Shek plagues a majority of the party with insects, killing Brooneau and knocking others unconcious, before teleporting to the isolated Zareyl in an attempt to stop her powerful spellcasting.

As Haask moves to his mother with unwavering resolve, determined to end her control over him, however in a weaken state she teleports away, out of view. With seemingly only Naazski left to contend with Haask turns and the healed Dov tighten in on him. Seeing the turns of the tide Naaski hopes to atleast take his compatents with him, casting a powerful fireball on himself. In his death his soul seemingly splitting in two, one dark and one light, the latter flickers back to the killed Guardian Naga before dissapearing entirely. Revealing the soul theft and corruption of the rituals conception.

As Fafnir stabalises his allies and bring Brooneau back to life Zareyl dimension doors to the top of the Temple. Seeing the wounded Shek and Seena flee she readies an attack but the moment passes as they transform into snakes and dissapear among the waves. She dimension doors back to the group, as he regains conciousness a confused Broonea looks to his tired and beaten party asking if we won. And the moment is captured perfectly by Zareyl - "Its a draw."

## 31/08/2021 - WD, Tarra-Whiterose - Exploration of the Elemental tower

* Erebus
* Sprocket
* Fafnir
* Zareyl
* Fonteyne
* Arlen

Zareyl is deep in meditation as she ponders the legacies and the location of the third. A swriling fog at the edge of her periphery, a noise like a passing breeze is heard whose out of place nature in a building without windows brigns her out of the trance. A slightly familiar glowing purple light shimmers between her and the stairway before disappearing. Zareyl gets the feeling there is something else in the room that is unseen. she casts detect magic detecting a faint aura of transmutation, a roughly cylindrical shape with twisting points like a staff. A voice creeps into her mind as she calls out to it. An elvenlike form steps out, twisted and perverted to abberant chaos(Ethergaunt) The labyrinth's messenger comes with an offer from it's master. Telling her to destroy the legacies as thefoul labyrinth hates what lies beyond it(Hadar), offering an alliance.

The labyrinths terms are:

-when the legacies are gathered, the labyrinth will stand at Zareyl's side and enact his vengence

-in return, Zareyl will bring him something from the elemental tower as payment

Zareyl accepts the deal but asks for it's name. When the messenger says it doesnt have one, she stresses the importance of names.

Saying he will return expecting an answer. Zareyl communes asking the questions

-Is the foul labyrinth a true enemy of hadar: yes

-Is this core they speak of a danger to us if in the hands of the foul labyrinth: yes

-Would this delightful item be of use to me and you: possibly

The party is treated to a kings breakfast, Fafnir attempts to have a friendly conversation with Sprocket but fails The party heads eastwards, Zareyl leads the party. Arlen sees a green-yellow flower, Zareyl identifies it as a plant

which sap can be used as an inhaled poison(DC 13 CON save, unconscious for 1 min (inhaled)). Sprocket and Fafnir gather some of the Sap for

their own purposes.

Leading the way, Zareyl notices a fruit falling from the trees. Glancing up she looks for what could've dropped it but doesn't find a source.

An uneasiness sets in as the forest grows just a bit more quiet. Sprocket's construct F.O.R.K  notices a unnatural movement as a insectlike montrosity attacks the party After short fight, Zareyl is offended that the creature tried to attack her and kills it with an inflict wounds. The party stumbles upon a lagoon where the party can set up a camp. Hamilton is grabbed by the leg as a plantlike monster attempts to drag him into the water. After a short fight, the creatures are defeated. Necrotic like plantlike monsters, likely caused by the aftermath of Korrinkas passing through. Zareyl puts up her temple of the gods. Arlen perouses the books of Zareyl's library, reading the five expeditions of Asher sung. Sprocket keeps F.O.R.K the construct on lookout while reading the hermetic principles of alchemy discovering how to weaponize the Belladoldrum extract and made 2 gas bombs.

Erebus does his daily excercise as everyone wakes up. Sprocket notices something reflecting light from atop the hills to the southeast where a great walls spans. As they venture forward a collection of laughter is heard around them as they are assaulted by smotherlings. The creatures are quickly dispatched by a combination of area of effect spells, sword swings and lightning charges. An ornate building made of matble and brozne, an arched dome with a spyglass at the top. Inside a small cave at the base of the hill, there is a smell of accridity and rot. Dead creatures litter the cave, Zareyl recognizes some as Quagoths. Amalgams of flesh, goblins and hobgolins twisted by the foul labyrinth. A grate at the back of the cave is sealed with a wall of force. Sprocket casts detect magic and notices traces of evocation on the corpses. Zareyl attempts to pick the lock on the front door but is blasted by a plume of fire Failing to open the door, Zareyl knocks on the door to save face. A slide on the door opens an a scope looks at Zareyl

"The master isnt taking any visitors, please come back later"

Fafnir turns the lock into glass and being able to see the inside mechanism is able to open the door. A liner and a control board to rotate the telescope is inside. Sprocket dials up the power, a purple surge of energy shoots through the pipes. Fonteyne realises that the telescope allows someone to peer through planes. Zareyl and Fonteyne attempts to remove the Wayfinder stones in the telescope and are soon attacked by an arcane construct. Sprocket and Fafnir investigates the arcane construtct, Fafnir comments on it's similarity to magic found in the book: Innovation through rivalry. Investigating the basement, the party is attacked by an Arcane sentry. Fafnir continues to investigate the arcane construct as everyone else fights against the construct. Sprocket scavenges an elemtal gem(lightning elemental) Entering a room with a big door and three levers, Sprocket pulls the middle one which stops a cystal grinding machine, he pulls the left one which opens the big door pulling the right one the door closes and a cleaning agent fills the room. The party argues if they should clean themselves off, which they eventually do. Finding a large room with the pipes funneling into a shallow circular pool, Beside it is a room with primordial runes:

Ohmenis

Stratavalan

Exto

Scothyx

Nuldomul

Vapocaenum

Malovox

Tumulanche

As Zareyl presses the Ohmenis button a pheonix like lightcreature appears and disappear into the pipes. Pressing the exto button a fire elemental is conjured and pulled up the pipe. Zareyl finds a slot for a wayfinder stone, she slides two in and it is ground down into a vial of iviniuum. The machine with the primordial runes seemingly create portals to different planes and conjures elementals to be used as power sources. Sprocket ritually casts identify on the dust(it is magic made matter, it can be used as a substitute for any material component). Further in the party finds the bodies of mindflayers and quaggoths used as test subjects. Fafnir protests the fact that mindflayers are people. Zareyl explains that they are in fact very unpleasant. The party finds a frozen room with 2 frozen elementals. In a big room, the party finds a big arcane golem in a room with a dozen cylinders filled with elemental gems. In another big room, suspended in tanks beneath water are mindflayers in suspended animation. Zareyl hypothesises that they are using the mindflayer's ability to planeshift. Sprocket tests the hypothesis by pressing Tumulanche. Fonteyne activates a glyph of warding on the door which teleports him into one of the tanks Zareyl polymorphs Fonteyne into a small fish and he swims through the bars of the cage and is scooped up by F.O.R.K's ladle arm. The party finds the core which is discharges every school of magic. Coming around a corner is Nelenet. He tells the party to step away from the lachla shard!!!!!! Nelenet explains that he wants to create an elemental army to go back to his plane of existence. Nelenet peers into Zareyl's mind to confirm what she knows. The party hands back what they found in Nelenet's tower.

## 9 WD, Gantul-Whiterose - The Layer of Acrimos

* Aenarion
* Arlen
* Ume
* Bren
* Isra
* Hassk
* Rutherford

Sadly, Mr. Howell was unable to join this adventuring party - their goal to defeat a Green Dragon. His glorious Paladin Power would have made the battle easy, but without the Half Elf man of the people, the courageous adventurers set out. Aenarion assembled the best he could muster, intent on reuniting with his lost Ring. They stopped by a potion shop, stocking up on supplies, dread in their heart.

Aphyllia assisted her father, Scrying on an enemy to discover their location. Certain of their destination, she then cast Transport via Plants - sending them on their way, after a delicious Hero’s Feast. The group landed outside of Haunt’s Lament. A dragon awaited them, with Anaerion’s precious ring. With fear and intent in their hearts, they set on their way - heading towards a confrontation.

The Warlock, Bren, sent an arcane sentry on ahead to discover what awaited them - finding a thick fog and heavy sounds of running water down a narrow pathway they intended to climb. It was darker the further the sentry moved inwards, the water rising around it.

This information was passed down the line, with Anaerion taking a commanding lead. Hassk warned that “thralls” may await them, undead or otherwise, between here and the dragon’s layer. As they began to climb, Rutherford the bard, noted a hawk watching them near the entrance.

It was not far up this path that Anaerion discovered a bound and chained creature. He slowed the group to investigate the abused animal. However, his footfalls were clumsy and the creature became hostile. Aenarion and Ume wasted no time to engage the enemy, though the rest of the party was walleyed by the difficult terrain of the flowing water.

The fight was sloppy, creatures running, others falling in the water. A slippery mess of a combat encounter, as the party scrambled to get their act together. However, their intimidating presence was enough to get the creatures to turn tail and run. One was put to sleep, only to sleep forever once they were swept away down river.

The party (Those who had found their footing) chased the enemy up the flowing water further, only to meet some resistance as the enemy rallied. The party dropped their hands at this pushback, but were unrelenting, pushing forward without taking any true injuries. As they advanced, they came upon a door sealed to them. Hassk and Anaerion began to levy their strength, trying to force their way inside. Even with their impressive physical prowess, they were unable to open it. They alternated their tactics, opening the door.

Though their enemies seemed dead or fled, the party was on their toes. Scrapping and clawing noises echoed from a pit that had been hidden behind the newly opened door. Hassk failed to discern how far away the scratching noise was coming from, leaving the party on edge. Their paranoia proved perfectly placed as more creatures poured forth from the pit, launching a volley of attacks against Anaerion and Hassk.

The party refused to back down, pushing on ahead to take on the new threat. Hassk finished the last of the creatures off, ending their initial push into the layer. Ume, Isra, and Bren, who had searched another area, returned to report another hallway with a door and a bird watching them, which Rutherford had also noticed before they entered. Anaerion ordered them to pay it no mind as they descended via rope into the pit. The man quickly discovered an illusionary wall and dispelled it. A faint crumbling sound danced upon his ears as the wall wilted before him. He found himself standing in a chamber, a vast cavern surrounded by a collection Kobolds, though he managed to hide before detection giants as well coated the area.

Bren and Anaerion discussed a brief plan via telepathic message. He ordered his companions to descend stealthily, though Isra could not deliver on this request. As such, the horde swarmed the heroes.

A sudden surprise lurked in the waters near where the heroes did battle. Acrimos, the dragon himself, appeared from the water attacking viciously and quickly. An ensnaring gaze fell upon Ume the Otter as ensnaring vines tangled around all. The heroes dug in and began to battle their enemies on all fronts, carving their way further into the enemy’s chamber. The dragon and its allies attempted to use their poisonous powers, but the Hero’s Feast negated all effects.

Anaerion turned the tied, firing off a devastating shot from his bow, shooting star. Bren, polymorphed into a dragon, then wipes out even more of their enemies, ignoring vicious attacks from Acrimos at every turn. Rutherford attempted to use his magical words to attack the enemy and was quickly humbled. The dragon retrieved the fallen bard’s body from right next to Anaerion.

Despite felling his lackeys, Acrimos proved dangerous, disposing of Hassk moments after finishing off Rutherford. A sudden spike growth chained down many, nearly sealing Acrimos’ fate. Bren lost his dragon form, leaving him entirely exposed. It became touch and go as a series of desperate counterspells attempted to nerf their dragon enemy. The party rallied, finishing off the last of the dragon’s thralls to face down the dragon, wary and battered, but ready for more. Hassk and Isra make desperate plays to heal the party as Ume finishes off the leftovers. Unfortunately, in the same breath, Bren fell. Acrimos moved to brutalize Ume next, nearly taking down the otterfolk. However, Anaerion’s rally keeps her alive - only for a moment. Hassk was able to bring Ume and Bren back to their feet, though Bren did not last long. Acrimos tried to once again fell Ume, but was unsuccessful, as Anaerion attacked again, giving the dragon a taste of its own medicine.

Hassk healed Bren once again as all pushed as one to keep Ume alive, the only one they thought who could deal the killing blow. Rutherford freed himself from his restraints and rejoined the battle, only for it to pause.

Acrimos offered Anaerion a deal - allow the dragon to consume the Eladrin’s arm and the ring would be surrendered. Anaerion agreed to the deal, but demanded compensation for his allies as well. The Dragon mulled it over, before bending to their request. Acrimos disappeared into the water, leaving the heroes victorious in an unexpected way. The heroes would not accept this however, as Isra, Ume, and Anaerion gave chase

Bren and Rutherford recovered and attempted to get to his horde, only for Acrimos to double back and fell them both. Anaerion and the others returned, felling the beast in a vengeful fury.

The party revived Bren and Rutherford, the former used his Earth Elemental to bust the doors of the chamber open. Poisonous gas filled the room, but the heroes were immune. Gold, platinum, spell scrolls, and precious gems awaited them on the other side of the door, more treasure than they could imagine.

## 19/9/2021 - 9 WD, Onteer-Whiterose - The Keeper

* Ronan †
* Fonteyne Howell
* Fawn
* Lady Zareyl
* Imir
* Rutherford Dangerfield

**“We’re Fucked” - Fonteyne Howell**

Despite the indomitable presence of Fonteyne Howell, the party decided it would be best to stock up on supplies. The generous benefactor acquiesced potions of healing to his comrades as well as offering to spring some of his great fortunes to purchase equipment necessary. The patron then offered up his coin to allow Lady Zareyl to cast *Heroes Feast,* recalling the story of how well it had served the others against Acirmos. Once the party had finished preparing and feasting.

Following our brave leader into the Arken Den to meet with the Exarch. Prisoners, disgusting and mindless lined the cells of the basement. They went to a specific cell, finding a prisoner of named Ealwant, said to a Harbinger. Ronan, on the permission of Lady Zareyl, entered the cell with a special “soul shard”. With a prayer spoken, Ronan then, brutally and without mercy, beat the alleged Harbinger to death in the cell. Next, rather paradoxically, Ronan then attempted to revive the creature he had so horrifically slaughtered, using the shard as a conduit. To the Cleric’s surprise, the spell failed. Lady Zareyl offered some of her own divine power to the bearer of Forge Master’s Pride. This time, without nearly any effort, the spell seemed to work - vaporizing the sliver into a fine dust, settling on the body beneath the cleric. However, the corpse remained stiff. Committed to this path, Ronan attempted a third resurrection, this time using a diamond. Once again, they were without result.

Imir was struck with an idea and activated her wand of enemy detection, noticing a kobold in the corner. Imir then suggested that the Keeper may have trapped the soul of their victim already. It then dawned on Ronan, that their power combined, while great, was not enough. In a flash, a diamond was in Ronan’s hand, casting Resurrection. This time, the body breathed life. The suddenly lively body grabbed Ronan’s holy symbol. Once Ealwant had calmed down, Ronan introduced himself, subtly casting Charm Person. Ealwant was confused, but before Ronan could answer his many questions, Zareyl demanded they stick to relevant information. Ronan took Zareyl’s request, focusing down on the party’s quest - Dolurrh. In exchange for his information, Ealwant requested his shackles removed. Imir and Ronan were for it, but Fonteyne, Rutherford, and Lady Zareyl were against. After some discussion, Ealwant requested his “things”, informing those present they were stored elsewhere. He assured everyone that only he could retrieve his things. Reluctantly, the party agreed to his request, so long as someone accompanied him. Lady Zareyl freed Ealwant from his shackle and offered him an arcane focus. Ealwant then took Lady Zareyl to a demi-plane to retrieve his effects, despite Ronan attempting to accompany them. Tracing a finger across the wall and floor, Ealwant created a crimson door of wood to his trans-dimensional walk-in closet. Minutes later, they returned, with Ealwant seeming a bit more confident, gripping a staff.

Ronan then declared that the party would rest before traveling to Dolurrh. Ealwant was skeptical, worrying about their destination with no true plan, but Imir managed to ease his mind. Zareyl confined Ealwant to his cell until the morning. Though Imir, Ronan, and Fawn were generous to their new party ally, Rutherford, Fonteyne, and Zareyl remained skeptical. After some futher discussion, Zareyl acquiesced, asking for Ealwant’s focus in exchange for more of a free rein of the Arken Den. Zareyl then attempted a Geas, but he resisted, irking the drow.

Ronan offered Fonteyne Ronan a ring to further his protection, casting Warding Bond on Fonteyne. All were then given an Intellect Fortress. With that complete, Ronan cast Plane Shift and they were off.

Arriving at their destination, they find a harsh environment of crags and peaks, ashen in color. Immediately, the group was beset by psychic trauma, the oppressive landscape taking an immediate toll on Fawn, though it seemed to pass. Ealwant, pressed by Imir, revealed he did not know the direct path, but was able to discern one with a simple spell. Ealwant granted Rutherford better sight before Zareyl passed the gift of stealth to the whole group. They set off, but stopped quickly - as a voice danced into Zareyl’s mind. It was not long after that that enemies beset the group. A sphere of magical darkness blinded the group as it enveloped them entirely, deafening them as well. Zareyl rushed from the smoke and attacked the warlock casting the spell, dispersing the sphere before it could do great damage. Ealwant followed this up with a Wall of Force upon the Warlock creature, before Rutherford struck with an Eldritch Blast. A second creature appeared before Imir, who reacted quickly and attacked the beast.

Fonteyne then sprung to life, launching himself into the fray to protect his allies, casting a protection spell upon himself. He layed into the creature that Imir had struck, taking even more of the creature’s life force with each consecutive hit. His vigor wreathed him in a literal holy fire.

From the darkness, a blast of reality shifting energy took aim at Rutherford, Ealwant, Ronan, and Imir. Following this, Ealwant, Fonteyne, Rutherford, and Lady Zareyl began making their way towards the Warlock, closing the distance to defeat their foe. Ealwant defeated the creature, with the help of Lady Zareyl.

They found a doorway, investigating for traps before moving forward through the doorway. Each was then in turn subjected to a vision, the details of which are vague as they are personal to each adventurer

* Rutherford remembered the day he came to acquire his typewriter
* Lady Zareyl saw a vision of her mother, a day long in her past
* Imir found themself on a battlefield, a field soaked in mud, rain, blood, and gore
* Fawn, in an unassuming town, was greeted by old faces
* Ronan was in a graveyard, seeing an old friend
* Fonteyne, entirely alone, was in a room of filth

Mentally shaken, the party was brought back together, in an atrium full of soul slivers. Imir and Zareyl took point. Ealwant informed the party the items they searched for would be hard to find. Imir discovered that touching a shard granted a quick look into the stolen person’s life, but only a fleeting moment - a feeling. They came across a custodian of this soul library, with Lady Zareyl leading the group further in. Lady Zareyl wasted no time, launching an attack. Fawn and Fonteyne followed suit, but the Custodians were just as vicious, draining the party’s health. Imir determined they were immune to cold damage.

The battle continued to rage, with the creatures continuing to pull the life force of the heroes with each attack, putting even the mighty Fonteyne on the back step. Imir quickly racing to his help. They felt the results of the fight, despite their victories. Rutherford offered a small bit of invigoration. Lady Zareyl and Ronan combined their magic to attempt to find the book. Lady Zareyl detected her quarry - the book of Vile Darkness.

As they moved towards their quarry, their failure to move stealthily gets them almost immediately into more trouble. This time however, they were prepared, and sprung into action with much more coordination. Within seconds their enemy was dispatched this time, with a surprising final kill from Rutherford.

With a final push, the party came upon the inner layer of Keeper. Lady Zareyl demanded the return of fallen comrades, Heelmelk and Cassius. However, the Keeper was not so giving, taunting Lady Zareyl of their bound souls, displaying Cassius before them as a taunt. He offered the a choice

* Join or die
* Die and join

He then attempted to power word kill Fawn and Rutherford, who survived thanks to Death Ward and Heart to Heart. The creature then used a Disintegrate on Lady Zareyl, brutalizing her before combat truly began. A Syphonic Void then approached, brutalizing Imir. Rutherford launched the first return volley, it did nothing.

The Keeper then attempted to destroy Imir and Ronan in a brutal barrage. The two fought it off, rallying the heroes to charge in and face this battle head on. Fonteyne then made the most courageous move, teleporting himself and Ronan onto the face of the Keeper with a dimension door. The Keeper attempted to disintegrate them both, nearly killing Ronan if not for the death ward. Ronan then turned towards the party, ordering them to flee before casting word of Recall, but the spell failed. The Keeper then tethered Imir’s essence and continued its attack, trying to kill the powerful enemies in its domain. Imir countered with a Wall of Force around the Keeper.

Ealwant, realizing their battle would be lost, cast Wish, giving the heroes a chance to cast teleportation spells. The Keeper then began to tether all to one, it continued further, grabbing Fonteyne. With a powerful chain lightning, the Keeper dropped Ronan, Fawn, Ealwant, and Imir in an instant. Lady Zareyl, seeing their day lost, teleported Rutherford, Fawn, and Imir out of the chamber. Fonteyne and Ronan were then brutalized by the Keeper, ravaging and beating their physical flesh.

Returning to her place of familiarity - Lady Zareyl attempted a desperate Divine Intervention. It failed. In a desperate attempt, two other worshippers were searched out, both failing sadly. A last desperate message was sent to Hassk. With a simple command, the bodies of Fonteyne, aged significantly, Ealwant, and Forgemaster’s Pride arrived at his feet. Fonteyne passed away at his feet a second later, with Hassk reviving him.

Lady Zareyl retrieved Fonteyne and Ealwant from Hassk, sealing away the wizard. Fonteyne visited Ignatius, reversing the spell effects on him, bringing back his beauty and youth. Fawn brought the bad news to Anaerion. Ronan's soul from the weapon requested he be brought to Reagmond.

## 26/09/2021- 9 WD Otealt, Whiterose- The Shadowsword

* Fonteyne
* Ume
* Fafnir
* Skuld
* Velkyn
* Arlen
* Erebus
* Hassk
* Baz

Velkyn holds a small bag containing the ostial spur, he settles down and enters a trace he relives a moment from a few days prior when he felt proud of himself, he suddenly finds himself shouded in shadows bathed in the light of a blood moon as he is stands outside of a sundered chaple, a mysterious figure speaks to Velkyn causing him great pain as he monologues from the shadows about his domain and what is his. after this terrifying encounter Velkyn awakens to find the Ostial Spur missing from his hands but instead it is embedded in his sternumwith the Symbol of Orcus engraved into the flesh of his chest, there is a power radiating from it but nothing that is apparent to him immediately.

The Party set out from the wintery breeze of Whittengrove heading into the heart of the Desert after a few days travelling to the caravanseraiknown as Camp Darude before setting down for the night Hassk attempts to Scry on the Shadowsword but his attempt fails. The next day Ume and Fonteyne lead the way towards the Shadowsword's lair.

After a travelling for a while they come across a group of Thri-Kreen walking with a chained Rakshasa, Skuld quickly deduces that the Thri-Kreen are secretly Rakshsa using a glamour and combat ensues during the fight Baz summons a Barlgura which goes berserk after the combat ends and attacks the party and Skuld quickly puts it down.

Hassk Fafnir and Fonteyne cast Death Ward on themselves and Fafnir gives Aid to a few party members, the party move further into the desert and find themselves at the foot of the mountain which is known to be the lair of the Shadowsword, as they approach Fonteyne spots some lingering shadows that are grovelling towards the tomb beneath the mountain as the party approach they dissapate leaving a dark stain on the ground, as they enter the dark tomb Arlen extends his mornstar amulet's light causing the shadowy figures in the tomb to vanish under his light, Fafnir sends out his familiar to scout the tomb the familar finds many of the statues int he tomb have been modified or defaced brutally and sarcophagi have been opened and emptied, the familiar then comes across a etching that tells the story of an epic battle between two figures. The group spend time discussing how best to proceed through the tomb, the group cautiously move through the tomb Fonteyne notes that they need Basilt and that there is some located in a side room Skuld lifts to door high enough for Ume to slink in and grab a jar of Basilt as the torch basins are lit a door slides open and the group find themselves staring down Mordekesh the Shadowsword and a decent sized horde of monsterous beings and with a smirk Mordekesh and every malicious being of medium size turns into a copy of Fonteyne and combat begins.

Ume rushes into the fight and is caught off guard initally by the army of Fonteyne's before her but that doesn't stop her from beating one of the Fonteyne clones with her fists an Anocorian Mongrel jumps at Ume but falls short of an attack, a Zakya steps in swinging at Ume with it's illusionary Vermillion sword and catches her twice, Hassk realises with his truesight he can see the true Mordekesh but that he has also has vanished from his original location swapping places with a different Rakshasa while Allegiant Zealot's start firing off Grave Bolts Mordekesh unleashes a synaptic static and three ranged slashes with The shadowsword causing Ume, Fonteyne and Skuld to go blind, more Zealot's begin firing Grave Bolts at Fonteyne and Ume Velkyn then promptly banishes the two Hulking Zealots, Velkyn then is hit by a Chromatic Orb and just manages to hold on to his concentration keeping the Hulking beasts banished, Skuld then throws himself in to the fight using Conqueror's Crusade to attack 3 enemies in a made dash through the horde, killing one hitting two others and knocking three surrounding enemies prone he then attacks two more enemies Mordekesh then shouts a command forcing the two enemies to retaliate against Skuld, Baz sends his Shadow Spawn into the room it is then attack by a Mongrel and a second Mongrel attacks Skuld and Velkyn is attacked forcing his concentration to drop and bringing the Hulking Zealots back into the fray Fonteyne rides into the midst of battle atride Hamilton and is overly critical of his doppelgangers he then tries to swing with Vermillion and misses a Hulking Zealot smashes through some pillars in an attempt to get to the party more grave bolts are thrown, Arlen rushes in and casts Daylight on his sword bathing the Room in a healthy glow, More attacks are thrown at Fonteyne and Skuld as Fafnir runs in and Pops a wall of force sectioning off the field.

Ume Shifts her Gi to a Summer motif and launches a flurry of blows at the prone Mongrel near her the Mongrel tries to retaliate but is swiftly cut down by Fonteyne, Grave Bolts are launched and a Zealot tries tolife drain Ume but Skuld's Runes force it to fail, Hassk then tries to cast slow but Mordekesh lowers The Shadowsword and it drains the Slow spell away but Hassk sees this happen and quickly counterspells The Shadowsword allowing his spell to activate slowing multiple of the beasts he then cuts down two foes and moves towards Mordekesh, Mordekesh moves to attack Skuld but misses all three atacks more Grave Bolts are thrown about the arena Velkyn then launches a Fireball into the middle of the battle and counters Mordekesh in the same breath as many of the Fonteyne's are burned away, more Grave bolts are thrown Erebus takes a hit, Skuld then gloatingly confronts Mordekesh he enlarges himself and strikes down at a mongrel crushing it beneath his weapon then causes fear with Fading Vision then smashes Mordekesh and grapples him and man handles him on to the floor infront of Hassk Mordekesh then quickly jumps into a different body, Baz's Shadowspawn releases a Dreadful Scream frightening most of the rest of the horde of enemies, Baz then fires off two Eldritch Blasts striking his target, a mongrel bites at Skuld and does nothing, a Hulking Zealot punches the Shadow Spawn more Grave Bolts are lauched as Fonteyne swings Vermillion cutting down a Zealot, a Hulking Zealot tries to take a bite out of Fonteyne and misses Arlen rushes to the Hulking Zealot and misses, Hassk is flanked and attacked by a Rakshasa, Tthe false Fonteyne that Skuld is grappling misty steps out and fires two grave bolts at him, more Grave Bolts are fired, Fafnir then casts Gravity Sinkhole Skuld hangs on for the duration of the spell as the enemies are either torn apart or dragged to the center of the sinkhole.

Ume beats down a Zealot then heals herself Mordekesh then hits Skuld with a Staggering Smite, Hassk then readies himself to shackle Mordekesh is he should become stunned more Grave Bolts are fired, Erebus slams the Hulking Zealot with his Greatsword, Mordekesh then uses a Banishing Smite on Hassk removing him from combat causing the he then turns and slashes at Skuld more Grave Bolts are fired Velkyn Uses Dobryn to cast Protection from Evil and Good on Skuld and throws two Eldritch Blasts at the Hulking Zealot, Ume is Slashed by a Rakshasa more Gravebolts are fired, Skuld attempts to see through the illusion on Mordekesh but fails he then kills three foes, The Shadow Spawn hits a Fonteyne clone and Baz fires two Eldritch Blasts A hulking Zealot kills the Shadow Spawn and throws a mongrel over the Wall of Force which then attacks Skuld, Fonteyne then slashes at the Hulking Zealot killing it with two divine smites he then moves towards the clone he believes is Mordekesh he slashes down his target and finds that it isn't Mordekesh, Arlen cuts down a clone and then faces down another Fonteyne, that Fonteyne then parries and attacks him back as Mordekesh moves into the body of that clone, Fafnir then casts another Gravity Sinkhole dragging a swathe of enemies into the wall of force, Mordekesh hits Arlen once again.

Ume rushes in to help Arlen and launches a series of blows and attempts a stun against Mordekesh but he maintains his composure, more Grave Bolts are fired, Erebus swings for Mordekesh and deals some big blows to Mordekesh, Mordekesh then drops the illusions and reaches out at Ume Erebus and Arlen and takes out Erebus and Arlen with Seething Sanguine Ume stays standing, Skuld rushes to attack Mordekesh and proceeds to slam him thrice with Fading Vision the first is parried but the next two find their mark, Mordekesh then returns the blow but Skuld rebounds the blow into a zealot, Baz then eviserates a Zealot with an Eldritch Blast, the remaining Hulking Zealot throws another Mongrel over the Wall of Force it proceeds to attack Fonteyne who retaliates and kills the mongrel he then flies Hamilton over to Mordekesh and attacks removing the last mirror image he then slashes at Mordekesh with a powerful Divine Smite, a Mongrel eats Dobryn, Fafnir then covers the remaining zealots and the Hulking beast in a dome of force Mordekesh then slashes at Fonteyne.

Ume pummels Mordekesh relentlessly as she moves her Gi around, a surviving Zealot Grave Bolts Fanir, Mordekesh brings Fonteyne down to his death ward Velkyn then saves Baz from his Synaptic Static curse, Mordekesh swaps spaces with another minion, Skuld chases him down the swapped zealot attacks and Fonteyne kills it in return, Skuld then beats Mordekesh and the Mongrel killing the Mongrel he then Grapples Mordekesh who then swaps out with a Zealot that was trapped under the dome, Baz then Green Flame Blades the swapped Zealot killing it with Necrosis, Fonteyne drinks a Superior healing  potion and flies over to Mordekesh he slashes him with Vermillion, Fafnir brings Arlen back to life.

Ume then gets Erebus back in to the land of the living and runs to join the fray, Ererbus gets back to his feet heals up a bit and moves to join the fight, Mordekesh swings for Ume and Fonteyne see's his chance and grabs Mordekesh's shoulder and stabs down under Mordekesh's armour killing him he drops to the ground and burns into a pile of ashes as the chest plate and The Shadowsword fall to the ground.

Fonteyne claims The Shadowsword and Modekesh's Armour but notices that The Shadowsword shrinks in his grasp.

## 9/10/2021 - 9 WD, Jas-Greencrown - The Guild of the Crimson Blossom

* Bilott
* Howard H. Hemlock
* Rutherford Dangerfield
* Alura Nightveil
* Arlen
* Dovruk
* Erebus

In contrast to most journeys that had set forth of late, these adventurers were a meager force. Warriors and soldiers who had barely set off on their journey. Few of them had encountered a dragon or a lich, if any. Notably amongst them was Howard H. Hemlock, Lord Howell’s bookkeeper. A Tortle of strange origin named Bilott, covered in scars, was new to town and was joining them as well. The ragtag group has been assigned a simple mission - exploration and recon of the East to find an academy. Bilott made an early impression with his strange magics, seemingly drawn from his own life force.

The day was warm as the group made their way east. They stuck to the roads for safety, making good time of the paved pathway. They were able to spend the whole day traveling uninterrupted. They made camp for the evening without much fuss. Dovruk summoned an arcane tiny hut for the group to stay in for the evening, looking for further protection from any danger they may face. The group settled in, keeping to themselves as they found themselves to sleep. It was an uneventful night, everyone getting enough sleep.

A cool breeze was their first companion of the morning as they set off early. It would stay with them all day and into the night. No other encounters were made this day. Their third day of travel was almost a clone of the first, nice weather and nothing of note in the morning. Footfalls were all the accompanying sound they had for some time. Until a voice came to accompany those steps. The stranger spoke to Alura Nightveil directly, demanding to know her business. The conversation quickly devolved and more men emerged, looking for a fight. One of the men presented a lantern to the group, seeming to scan them but finding nothing. The man declared they had “passed” their test, earning inquiry and japes from the group. They then demanded a toll of fifteen gold pieces per person, alleging it a law of the land. Arlen, however, quickly deduced that this gentlemen was not a member of the Blue Fang, as they had claimed - they were mercenaries, and this toll was bust. Rather than cause a scene, Arlen was able to persuade them to leave without combat.

Arriving to their destination, they found a window had been broken in. Alura suggested that a few of them climb in through the window and open the door from the inside. Erebus, Bilott, and Dovruk began to work in tandem to scale the building. The tortle entered the building whilst the others waited outside.

Once inside, he quickly spotted a Hill Giant and its followers, throwing a rope down to the others and wordlessly commanding them to proceed quietly. The group entered through a library, with a literal sleeping giant as their first true danger. Finding they were up on the second floor of the library, Rutherford suggested they remove the ladder to keep the goblins from scrambling up towards them. Dovruk moved forward, looking to grab the ladder and bring it closer to the group, however, it was fixed in place. He had to cautiously as to not make too much noise during the removal process. He was unable to remove it, eventually trying again before snapping the ladder and alerting their enemies.

The combat favored the adventurers, though lacking the experience of killing or fighting what this realm could truly muster, they were still not amateurs in the art of death. Arlen once again attempted to appeal to reason, noting that the adventurers would kill the goblins otherwise. Their enemies stood down, letting the adventurers pass. The Goblins and Giant escape into the woods as the group began to search. Howard H. Hemlock came across several spell scrolls, using one to cast detect magic on a strange cauldron in the room they were in. Bilott thought of an idea, dripping his blood into the cauldron - no response. However, this, along with a firebolt, gave Howard H. Hemlock enough context to know how to turn the basin into a portal. Moving through, they found another room, the portal closing behind them. The room they now occupied held a statue, holding a plague with a similar inscription from the previous room.

This room was cluttered with bookshelves. The group searched for books relevant to their own quests, coming across living spells, the security of the room. Magic Missiles and Acid Arrows began to harass the group as they scrambled. It took them sometime, but they were eventually able to do enough damage to the semi-alive spells to destroy them.

Finding some books and more spell scrolls, they moved on to the third room, this one decorated by wands. Beyond this was a fighting pit, filled with spell scrolls. Upon reaching its center, the group encountered training golems and more living spells. This fight was not as easy as their prior engagements had been, finding this wizard trap terribly efficient in disabling the fully group. Howard was able to turn the tide using his scrolls as the others slowly dismembered the golems and spells. Erebus finished off the last of the enemies and the party was able to rest.

During the battle, Dovruk was transformed into a crystal flower. Howard’s initial attempts to change him back failed. After some debate, Howard tried once again - inspired by Rutherford and the others. Dovruk reformed from the flower a moment later. They then discovered a second glass rose and, repeating the action, met a foxlike creature named Elerus Tas, the owner a winged weasel familiar that had been assisting the group - now known to be named Pebbles.

## 23/10/2021 - 9WD, Halla-Highreign

* Hassk
* Skuld
* Fonteyne
* Bren
* Isra
* Baz
* Erebus

Before heading out through the Hollow waymark, Bren hangs out in his shrine to the wellspring mare, A trio of men approaches the shrine, two thugs and one a bit shorter with shaggy hair. The Thugs come at the behest of their employer to collect money for a book that Bren had requested. Bren says he'll get back to them since he doesn't have the money, the thugs threaten to vandalize Bren's garden if he doesn't pay but Bren manages to convince them to leave without violence.

The party sets foot on the island of Morass, with a heavy overcasted fog. Knowing the perils of the swamp ahead Hassk hands out water breathing potions to Riaryn, Skuld, Fonteyne and himself, the rest capable of breathing underwater without. Skuld leads the way as the party heads south into the Gambler's bait bogs. Navigating the bogs the party notices the remains of an old bridge, the clear sign of past civilization. Bren jumps across as Hassk uses a scroll of water walking, making the party's travesal simpler. Bren and Baz are hit by a poisonous couagulation from the bog. Crossing the bridge the party heads on but Hamilton is assulted by an ancient blight. The undead tree is quickly made into fire wood of by the experienced party, Skuld rips the tree corpse out of the ground and drags it with him. The party passes a boggy pool with a few bodies, as Bren casts detect magic he notices an item emitting magic, Fonteyne unearthers the broken skeleton and identifies a quiver of Ehlonna. Isra notices the necrotic aura eminating from the thick fog surrounding them. The party encounters another obstacle as they have to trek across, a spindly form comes out of the grime as several swamp phantoms attack the party. They are dealt with, but not without some taking significant damage. The party takes a short rest to recouperate.

Isra tries to cook a meal but the nature of the mist seems to befoul whatever food is made here, but Skuld doesn't seem to mind. The party finds a grove of mangrove trees and a fetid pool sourrounded by corpses, the mist seems thicker so Hassk uses his second scroll of water walk on the entire party. Isra uses her divine sense and detects undead from one of the corpses in the water. Hassk quickly blasts it with a guiding bolt and impales it on his rapier. The rest of the corpses rise as the party is pulled into combat. As the parrty charges forward, fighting the reanimated corpses, Bren is wary of an ambush from the Black dracolich and scans the treetops but notices nothing. One of the corpses barfs bile on Skuld, Isra and Rairyn, Rairyn is undone by the necrotic stream. The undead are dealt with as quieet sets upon the bog again. But as Baz tries to decend into the pool lined with runes and inscriptions of skeletons and draconic forms. As he does a surge of necrotic energy hits the party, dealing significant damage and reviving the corpses previously dealt with. Getting hit by another surge of necrotic magic, as Skuld descends Bren decides to dispel the ward using dispel magic and the party can descend safely. Finding a large cavern with 4 dragon skeletons of various colors

*Bleak and wreathed in gloom, the subterranean pool sprawls beneath the quags above. Boils of festering grime bludgeon at the stone stripped bare, framing a graveyard of bone buried in the detritus at the pool's base. A skull fluted, adorned with curved horns, another sunken and segmented, split down the centre. Others still, one complete with frill trailing from snout to spine, another broad and flat, twisted from the shell-like mound in which it lay buried. Remains less draconic too, beasts, monstrosities, humanoids, left to ferment and rot.*

Isra uses her divine sense and notices 4 pillars of necrotic energy, one of them likely being the phylactory A black dragon is reanimated and starts fighting, Fonteyne Erebus and Bren who is polymorphed into a storm giant. Two of the pillars of necromantic energy drain the life from Hassk, fonteyne and skuld. As Hassk uses bigby's hand he unveils a pillar of bone and iron holding an artifact in it's center. One of the pillars is destroyed by Skuld and Isra, Skuld moves on to smash on one of the dragon skeletons which reanimates once the black dragon skeleton is destroyed. Erebus is hard at work hitting another pillar. Hitting the party with a scalding breath, Hassk is knocked unconsious but is brought back shortly after by Isra. The dragon turtle skeleton is brought low as a bronze dragon skeleton animates and breahtes lightning on Isra and Skuld. Another pillar is destroyed holding a lantern of torment. Bren in storm giant form picks up a talisman of ichor from another pillar. Erebus peturbed olympic style swims towards the last pillar. Spotting a blade of bone and horn, Ossium. The last pillar is destroyed by Bren's wind javelins. The bronze dragon skeleton is destroyed as the last skeleton, a green dragon animates. Hassk and Isra are knocked unconsious. Fonteyne dimension door's with Skuld next to Vitrizkraan and start fighting the dragon. Bren brings up Isra with one of her own healing potions, also bringing back Hassk as he and Isra were connected with heart to heart. Isra's moonbeam incinerates the the last dragon. The spirit of Vitrizkraan remains and attempts to possess Baz. Failing and fading from view as the last item from the pillars is destroyed. The identity of the dracolich's phylactory is very unclear and as Bren uses divine intervention, he is given the answer: Vitrizkraan's phylactory is one of his 13000 coins. Deciding to put all the coins in an antimagic field, they are able to find the coin: A platinum coin with a likeness to the cover of a book Hassk read a long time ago: Cursed coin. As Fonteyne brings down the Shadowsword on the coin, destroying it. As Fonteyne destroys the coin his sword grows longer and as he steps out of the antimagic field his skin i covered in black scales with large draconic wings. Some of the party thinking he has been possesed by Vitrizkraan, pull their weapons as they are understandably startled. Fonteyne assures the party that it is him, using contact other plane Bren finds out he is speaking the truth, Some are still suspicious. The party head back as they have successfully destroyed the dracolich Vitrizkraan for good.

## 30/10/2021 - 9WD, Carrast-Highreign

* Callum Earthbane
* Dovruk
* Fawn
* Ignatius Saurwind
* Redmane (Quinciferus Luperior Augher)
* Zareyl Arkenviir

Travelling via Wind Walk from the Radiant Waymark, bound for Astedia.

Soil and stone lie sundered, a giant crater is all that remains of the city. Nothing but ash and broken ground, as the party look down upon Dreamers' Vice from their cloud-like forms. Heading down to stand upon the crater's edge, the party assesses the situation with their own eyes. Dov is most devastated by this turn of events, rushing into the basin until he stands at the very edge of an incredible fall and laments the absence of his Lady. Through the Legacies that she carries, Zareyl glimpses a vision of a great city in revelry before a dark cloud appears overhead and the city falls in despair, then ruin, and finally the crater they stand before now.

A black ichor-like substance is found by Dovruk, noted to be splattered in small quantities along the surrounding area. A spell from Redmane detects it to be aberrant in nature, whilst Zareyl finds traces of conjuration and evocation lingering in the crater proper. Deciding that there is little else to be done with the tools at their disposal, the party withdraws via Wind Walk and heads for a manor house that had been spotted upon the approach to the crater.

Scouting from the air once more, the building - now named as Easel's Might - seems quiet and deserted so they set down in the garden. Noting first the bodies of two Coghearts, broken and entrapped in bush and vine, the party briefly explores the garden to little avail before Zareyl is given another short vision of a cart moving and a child wailing. Heading inside at a rushed pace, the Drow Matron leading the way, the party are greeted by a room in disrepair and a decayed corpse reaching for the door. Dovruk notes a painting upon the wall as bearing a striking a great semblance to his Lady, Alamaria Liatumal, a caption confirming as such.

Heading into the kitchen, detection of magic guides the party to a chest of preserving that yields a precious bounty of Cresce and Red Ambis amongst other perishables. An alchemy jug is also discovered, whilst Redmane digs deep in the pantry to discover a spice pouch that an individual that Heward might have referred to as handy. Moving to the lounge, another room downstairs, Ignatius moves to light a fire but is averted from his course by a cautious word from Redmane whilst Fawn plays a discordant melody upon a withered piano.

Upstairs, the party is greeted by many more doors. Leading the way into one room, Ignatius finds a library though it is in a state of decay beyond even that of the rest of the house. A chair is discovered, caked in that same black ichor that desecrated the area around the crater, but naught else of value is found amidst the broken room. A dining room is found next, three more bodies left in a similar vein to the one by the entranceway, and another room is similarly barren of anything of interest.

Attempts to break into another room prove challenging for the nimble hands of Lady Zareyl, even with the guidance of Lolth and Aita, but Dovruk's hammer proves more than a match for the wood. A study of sorts is found, an effigy in the visage of Lady found within, and various treasures and trinkets are claimed by Dovruk or otherwise distributed. Redmane, disliking of the violence, leads the way up to a second floor and finds himself faced with even more doorways.

Joined by his companions, they once again begin to work through the rooms. Landing first in the bedroom of Reyzana Liatumal, believed by deduction from imagery already seen, to be Lady's mother. Next, a second bedroom occupied by a gnawed skeleton whilst the bed itself is covered in a gelatinous slime. Then a study, with a shrine attached containing little altars to Aita, Divinus, Gaityas, and Yaldin. Ignatius and Redmane give quiet reverence before their respective gods, whilst Fawn leads the way further inside to discover another room commemorating Lady's famous ancestor - Luqen, who slew a dragon and made the family their fortune. Another bedroom follows, believed to be Lady's herself. The references to Tianyan are recognised immediately by Fawn, who takes up an Amulet of Aer'ank'ltor from an alcove beside the bed. Fawn and Dovruk make the bed before the party depart, leaving behind a small figurine of Aita as a parting gift.

Heading up another set of stairs, leading not to a separate level but in fact up multiple stories until they find themselves before a vault door. Using keys found in Lady's study, Ignatius opens the way and the party find themselves in a grand octagonal bedroom. Another corpse sits at a desk, a package bundled in his arms. Approaching, Zareyl discovers the package to be a Hanbalani Core as it seems to magnetise into her hand with some strange magnetism. A vision is granted, restoring the corpse to life in a vision of the past as the now Elvish figure - revealed to be Virric Liatumal - scrawls desperately in a book. Reading over his shoulder, Zareyl and Dovruk study his words before they are cut short by a blow from a malicious hand beneath a pale cloak.

"The days have started to blur, for rest comes so fitfully now. Trance and dream alike, neither grant solitude from this world, as my research suffers for it. The Core is connected to the others somehow, its composition not unlike that of the Stones, but further infused, refined, manipulated. A distant hand shapes them from afar to serve as a nexus of connections, to coordinate a purpose undefined. Like one of Kevmorn's capacitors, the energy seems to collect, though the scope remains unclear. Who wields such knowledge of the fundamentals of creation? What is to occur when the energy is discharged, and what follows if all do so in unison, as I speculate?"

Turning away suddenly, the pair and Fawn - all three in proximity to the Core - are assaulted by the flaming eyes of a Kalaraq Quori. The trio are blinded and injured by the onslaught, prompting the rest of the party into action as combat begins. Springing atop the piano, Ignatius summons a Corona Of Light to hamper the creature. Fawn seizes upon this opportunity to rain down radiant flame with both Sunbeam and a Crown of Stars, sundering some of the creatures many eyes. Dovruk strikes with hammer from afar, landing a telling blow, Redmane damages scenery, and Zareyl harms, before Callum strikes the deathblow with a gravity sinkhole.

Descending back through the manor house, the party are shown memories of different stages of the past. A view of Lady as a small child, hiding beneath bedsheets as she tries to secretly commune Tianyan. Another, a child being tucked into bed by a maid before they are consumed by a strange convulsion. Twisting into a monstrous Gibbering Mouther, the once-child consumes the maid before the vision fades. In another bedroom, a look at Lady being admonished by her father. A threat is made before she is dragged away by a Cogheart's hand, defiance burning in her eyes.

Struck by a moment of revelation, Zareyl rushes back upstairs to observe the vision there once more. Studying in particular the assailant, hidden somewhat behind a cloak, and determines them to match the appearance of Eordemos Lightvale.

Back down to the first floor, there are more visions that await the party. A scene of Lady's father paying for her bail after capture at the hands of the Inquisition, another of three servants discussing the current state of affairs before they are consumed by a sudden piercing cry. Twisting into the form of Quori, battle ensues once more as the creatures set upon the party. Fawn dismisses one with a star from her crown of radiance, Dovruk does battle with a second, whilst the third mounts a bookcase and assaults the airborne Fawn. Ignatius calls forth his plague of rodents, the army of weaponised mice inflicting damage upon both remaining figures before radiant blows from Fawn and - surprisingly - Zareyl strike them down.

Heading back to the entranceway, there is one final vision awaiting the party. Lady flees the house under the cover of darkness, accompanied by a Cogheart referred to as Kinheart but recognised by several of the party as Null. Her flight is interrupted by the arrival of Eodemos, who defenestrates the Cogheart before turning his attention to Lady. Asking of her the location of Liadove, he receives only spittle in response. Satisfied, or rather just accepting, her lack of response, Lightvale rends her body with a twisting of his form that is both aberrant and terrifying. Leaving her body behind, discarded in a manner similar to that which they had found upon their entry, he turns to leave before sensing the presence of Zareyl and the Legacies she carries.

Dovruk swings in rage, his blows landing but struggling against the impossibly malleable nature of the creature's form, before the foul creature strikes. Stunning Zareyl with a word of power, he removes her bag of holding and holds it high as the rest of the party tries and fails to reclaim it. He plane shifts away, Fawn's desperate counterspell answered in turn by one of his own, and the party is left stunned by this sudden twist of fate. Prayers are sent to several deities, calling upon assistance by means beyond mortal, but they fall upon deaf ears as none see fit to lend their aid.

Other foul creations, spawned during the fight, are quickly dealt with. Fireballs, the final orbs from a Crown of Stars, magical axe, and warhammer see the task done.

As the battle finally ends, the party still somewhat dumbfounded at the loss that has befallen them, Dovruk takes up Lady's bones. Carrying them back to her bedroom for a ceremony of sorts. Redmane heads to the garden to watch Zareyl as she heads outdoors, the Drow now despondent in the face of her failings. Placing down both her blade and the Hanbalani Core, she vanishes wordlessly in a flash of arcane light that leaves the Firbolg stunned. Gathering up those discarded belongings, the party solemnly recalls back to Whittengrove sans Zareyl.

Greeted on their return by the arrival of another figure, Nelenet. The people of Whittengrove are alerted to another threat against their world and the distant realm of Elysia.

## 21/11/21 9 WD, Ardor-Amberlight Hag-Hunting, the death of Crooked Dolores

* Fafnir
* Bren
* Aenarion
* Hassk
* Ignatius
* Baz

Final preparations, final information gathering.

Hassk used triple I to scry on Dolores once more, seeing a vision of the inside of her lair. Once more seeing Dolores with the child he saw before, now sitting comfortably in a boiling kettle that Dolores was working on.

Ignatius used Divination to ask whether Dolores is near Dirgevale Crypt, receiving affirmation.

Heroes Feast before Ahyllia assisted by casting Transport Via Plants, sending the group to the Dirgevale Crypt.

Immediately upon arrival, attackers appeared from the mist surrounding Dirgevale, a large pack of gnolls, led by Ignar Lockfang. A fight ensued where several gnolls and the beasts assisting them fell, some escaped by turning into mist, including Ignar. Communication with some of the gnolls informed us that Dolores was down in the Crypt.

Despite Baz wanting to take a moment to recover before going further, Hassk and Fafnir were unwilling to risk the hag’s escape, so the group quickly moved down into the crypt.

In familiar surroundings for those taking the lead, there were unfamiliar figures, the reanimated remains of the Dirgevale Hunters and additional spore zombies supporting them and another of the beasts. Quickly dispatched, the group began exploring the crypt.

The group found two disembodied heads placed as if on display, repeating the rhyme that had been heard before, during the last trek here.

"Whisper her name, say it to the fog,"

"Don't say it loud, worse still to mumble,"

"Echoing the sound of breaking twig and bone,"

"Soon here comes Crooked Tallowstumble."

They were surrounding a pool with a tunnel leading deeper in. A quick Locate Creature spell confirming the hag was there, the group started moving down the tunnel.

At the other end, the group entered the room Hassk saw with his Scrying, including the adolescent girl sitting in the kettle. Ignar was also there, as was Beechum, Dolores quickly made herself known as the battle started.

The fight had barely started with Baz cast Circle of Death, killing alI of the townsfolk that were there as sacrifices, as well as wounding most of the foes. It quickly looked dark as whatever ritual the hag was doing was rapidly proceeding, Dolores tossing the lifeless sacfices into the cauldron, until Hassk beseeched Ilemer to stop the ritual, sundering the cauldron to pieces.

As the battle proceeded, Aenarion eventually slew the hag and Beechum in rapid pace, followed by Ignatius restoring the energies of his companions via Mass Heal. Bren managed to catch the adolescent child, Arnica with a Dominate Person and Fafnir caught Ignar in a Wall of Force, after which he proceeded to kill himself.

As the battle ended, Bren beseeched the Wellspring Mare to free the child from corruption, succeeding in freeing the child.

Fafnir collected Arnica and the body of Dolores via Kuiper’s Compression after the hag’s blood was collected. As Hassk revived two of the dead townsfolk and Bren used Sending to taunt Aunt Juniper, after which Fafnir felt the marble go heavy, as if something was trying to enter the body from afar and to use it.

A short discussion ensued about the body of the hag and then the child, where Fafnir went with Bren and Aenarion to meet the Wellspring Mare to ensure all corruption from the child was gone. As the trio Plane Shifted away Ignatius tore down the remains of the crypt, leaving it a simple mound of earth before using Word of Recall to get back to Whittengrove.
Upon arriving back, Hassk offered aid for the survivors of Hazelglen, whilst Baz offered some gold.

As the trio of Bren, Aenarion and Fafnir arrived in the Feywild, the twins of winter, Vethurian and Zymuril brought the marble to be preserved until Velun could take care of them. Arnica was left with the Wellspring Mare to recover, eventually being given the opportunity to reincarnate if she so wishes.

Treasure:

**Artifacts/Story Items**

* Blood of Crooked Dolores Tallowstumble, 10 vials

**Magic Items:**

* A fine yellow powder that reeks of brimstone [Dust of Corrosion] (350gp)
* A pair of mittons made from the degloves skin of an ogre. [Gauntlets of Ogre Power] (6000gp)
* A warped and misshapen urn sealed tight with a stopper of wax and tallow [Iron Flask]
* A gritty unctuous paste that smells like mildew contained with a jar that weeps when opened [Koeghtom's Ointment] (450gp)
* A thick soot black pigment that smells like scorched bone [Moodmark Paint] (50gp)
* A wooden doll carved from yew, the tattered clothes gently pulsing as if a heart beats within its chest [Talking Doll] (75gp)
* Adamantine Armour of Ignar Lockfang (2000gp)
* Gristbite, Glaive of Ignar Lockfang (1250gp)

## 22/01/22 9 WD, Vluk-Amberlight, The expedition to the Crystal City

* Hassk
* Fafnir

Hassk visits Fafnir's shop before setting off to Culhauca, not sure what to expect from the crystaline city. Fafnir is hard at work on his project, Hassk asks how it is coming along and gets the answer that he is still working on the foundations. They discuss their journey, Hassk ruminates on having seen the city but not remembering many details, he doesn't know how the Couatl's will react to his presence and doesn't blame them if he was to be rebuked. From what they know there is a sort of boundary that hides the city from outside detection. Setting off through the Viridell waymark they hire a guide to take them closer to the boundary, knowing only the rough location. Deciding to head on foot the rest of the way they find the fooliage rough and thick and their journey slow. Fafnir sets up a magnificent mansion, a practical and modest abode with workshops abundant varied in singular purpose. Pipes running along the roof of the structure, ethereal clockwork servants running around. Fafnir shows Hassk one of his inventions, a clockwork device to tell the time of day, Hassk seems impressed by the invention. The two rest, Fafnir wakes up early to work as Hassk checks in on his friend, inviting him for some tea. The two settle for a nice coup of plum blossom tea as a spiderlike construct opens up at the top with an indentation made for warming up water. Fafnir has a cup and then suddenly gets an idea, starting to mumble about the scientific possibilities. Hassk catches only half of what his friend is talking about before trailing off.

The two friends make their way further into the jungle for several hours, the sunlight starting to peek through the thick canopy in spots. Coming across a thin thread of light running across the ground in front of them, Fafnir narrowly avoids walking straight into an invisible wall. They surmise they've come across the barrier surrounding culhauca. While Fafnir prepares to cast detect magic, Hassk walks alongside the barrier, tracing his hand along it's surface. Closing his eyes and emptying his mind he suddenly finds himself at the edge of a canyon, on the other side is a crystaline treeline with a mote of light flashing in gold and silver colors. Taking a few steps towards his friend Hassk notices that as he turns around, he's still standing at the edge. He takes a step off the edge and begins to fall for a few seconds and then realises that he is on the other side of the barrier. Hassk tells Fafnir to close his eyes and that he thinks the barrier is connected to the worship of ilemer. So Fafnir takes out two coins, one silver and one gold, pressing them against the barrier and passing through the barrier. They notice that they both feel immedietly better as any ails that harry them disappear. In the distance they can see the prisamtic pyramids of Culhauca. Entering the city they are greeted by a flock of Couatl's flying between the tops of the pyramids. Fafnir goes closer to investigate the make of the pyramids as Hassk watches his surroundings with a mix of pensiveness and awe. As he remarks on the incrediblesness of the city being created by one being a voice is heard as a larger couatl appears. It says that they have been waiting for this day to come, for Hassk to appear in their city. The large Couatl called Tlahtoa says that they haven't been waiting for Hassk but him, the Couatl that was captured, tortured and bound to Hassk, their greatest warrior Micxapetlas. Hassk exclaims that he came to Culhauca for answers, that he doesn't know himself. Tlahtoa offers to help Hassk reconscile his two separated souls but that he might not be the same afterwards. Hassk says he has been living in the dark for too long and follows the Couatl along with Fafnir. The two spot a familiar person in Cassiusthrowing a baby Couatl up in the air over and over. Tlahtoa explains that he was led here and that they managed to restore Cassius's face by reincarnating him over and over until he landed on something he fancied. Cassius had in the process become a new person as his original memories were taken by the keeper. Hassk asks if Cassius they would leave him as he is now, as a new and happy person or if they would restore  his old memories if they could. Fafnir and the Couatl were unsure about the answer to the question.

Tlahtoa led the two to a elevated platform where it was explained that Hassk could learn the truth but that there was a risk of breaking his mind. Hassk wanting answers accepted the risk, Fafnir offered to help but Hassk declined saying the process should be natural. Stepping onto a podium surrounded by stone rings. As he does, several beams of light from the tops of the crystal pyramids converge above Hassk as he begins to float in the air. The light descends into Hassk and he suddenly finds himself on a battlefield, flying through the air on multicolored wings. Behind him is Ilemer, vast, stalwart, holding aloft Conciliator and to his right is Chaklinas, his brother in arms. An army of ice golems are in front of him as he dives down biting and throwing one to the ground, Ilemer with a swipe of his hand destroys the rest of the Golems. A rumbling echoes across the battlefield as a lumbering mass comes into view, Malovox the bitter king. Another vision as Hassk is taken once again to another battlefield, this time to the moment where Ilemer's shield concilator is shattered by the Undying queen and she is ultimately imprisoned. He is struck by the glaive of an unknown demon lord and slammed into a mountainside where he remained. As his vision fades and he finds himself in a chamber, his scales and feathers feeling like they are twisting in his skin. A voice calls out to him, saying that it can do this for as long as it takes. But no he wont give in, he was forged by the Goldhand to be strong, he can endure this torture, or so he thought. Even celestials of such might have a limit, after being tortured for centuries Micxapetlas finally began to doubt himself, and as the self loathing came and he gave in and begged for mercy, at this moment Ssena holding a small bundle comes into view. Harnessing energy that strips Micxapetlas of feathers, scales, skin and flesh. She places an egg from the bundle onto the skull of Micxapetlas as she enacts a foul ritual. Hassk was witnessing his birth. As he came back to consiousness he felt a tear in his being, suddenly he was surrounded by strangers, in a city he knew, with a dwarf he didnt know. The moment passed but came back even stronger. Hassk losing all semblance of where or who he was. Fafnir could witness with his truesight, two beings in the same space that Hassk occupied, one the form he had come to know and the other a giant majestic Couatl. Tlahtoa explained that the process was exellerating and that they could try to split Hassk's souls erasing one and preserving the other or as a third way reforge the broken halfs into one, thus creating a new being. Hassk in a short moment of lucidity pondered the question, he had for a long time loathed himself for what he was. A being that was created by foul rituals, combining two that weren't supposed to be combined. Created as a weapon against the very deity he was taken from, an abomination that should be regarded with utter condemnation and disgust. Yet here he was, alive, having abandoned his creators and embraced the Goldhand once again, a death and a rebirth of sorts. Hassk opened his eyes and asked for Tlahtoa to reforge him, make them two sides of the same coin. An affirmation as Hassk was enveloped in light, he found himself in an empty void, floating. But he wasn't alone, with him was Micxapetlas, awakened after Hassk had revisited his memories. Hassk expressed sorrow for the Couatl and what happened to him, Micxapetlas reassures him that Hassk's actions have brought them both back from the brink of darkness. Micxapetlas and Hassk had been influencing each other in more ways than one, two broken halves, now to be reforged into something new.

Fafnir saw Hassk floating in the air enveloped by a blinding light that illuminated all of Culhauca. When it subsided Hassk or what he thought was Hassk stod in the middle of the podium, his scales rapidly changing colors for a moment. Hassk was quiet, slowly moving his hands in front of him to see if he was still himself. With one flick of the wrist his arm turned into a feathered wing and then back. He walks back to Fafnir, saying that he feels more whole than he ever has before. Turning into a giant ape, a giant constrictor snake, a giant goat and back into himself, he remarks he might need to get used to what he is now, not quite Yuan-ti and not quite Couatl, or perhaps both. Fafnir is relieved and asks what else he can do, Hassk smirks and turns into Fafnir. "Ah a fellow scholar" and all the other Couatls also turn into Fafnir and do the same. Fafnir and Hassk decide to stay for the night and Hassk says that he is going to stay in the crystal city for a few days to get to know himself.