Less than a day from the seaside village, the party found itself followed by a teen named Corl. He sought to join himself to the party. He had spied their handiwork and as he himself was banished from the village and forced to live off its refuse, he sought to squire for one of them and learn his way in the world as a knight.
Behind Blue Eyes part 13: The Sea Elves and their Shark God
As the party journeyed northward along the Dagger Sea, they came upon a seaside village built on stilts, just out of the water line.
The people had an elvish aspect, but with silver-green skin and hair that reminded the party of seaweed.
Behind Blue Eyes part 12: Vecna's Deceit
On the beach, now some two days South of the redoubt of Vecna, the party decides once and for all to dispatch the other worldly creature. This they do after combat brief and not altogether honorable. The creature disappears from this plane in a brilliant explosive flash, sending pieces of the cage as high speed shrapnel, and nearly drowning a party member.
Behind Blue Eyes part 11: Vecna's Secret Weapon
The end of the Battle of the Black Princes reveals Vecna's secret weapon. It is an other-worldly being trapped in a magical cage and pushed along in a giant wheeled cart by 50 Urok adepts.
Behind Blue Eyes part 10: The Boldish
The cleric and players are at crossroads. After a few days in a swamp and narrowly missing encounters with the catoblepas, the party seeks a sign from Onogg's god who leaves them with cryptic answers to the question of whether to assist Peter or the Dwarves.
Behind Blue Eyes part 8: Peter Heimos
"I am Peter," the Blue-Eyed Man, introduces himself. "I have come all this way to make right all that has gone wrong. Shall I tell you a story?"
Behind Blue Eyes part 7: The Rape of Ranay
Both the lord and the men of Halia are very encouraged by the apparent defeat of Greatjaw the Urok. Among Lord Haldon's family, just one nephew seems ill at ease. This is Aranel, son of Araya of the Forest. For undisclosed reasons, he agrees to help the party track the Blue-Eyed Man. The party is two weeks behind, but the nephew of Haldon (rumored to be his bastard son) claims that his mother, a woman of the forest, will be able to help them make up for lost time.
Behind Blue Eyes part 6: The Towers of the Vyrum
Dalfo the halfing tells the party of little known door located behind a waterfall at the rear of the towers. This passage was used to take supplies into the redoubt and while it was heavily guarded, might be unknown to the Urok occupiers.
Behind Blue Eyes part 5: Haldon the Prince
As the party continues to track the blue-eyed man through the ancient past, it comes upon a wooden palisade built at the base of a large hill. Behind it stand the simple huts and mud hall of someone calling himself, a Prince. This is Halia -- a tradepost of sorts and its small borders are protected by a old man who inherited the land from his grandfather. Haldon's family has been in control of this province since its former Vyrum owner, Lord Kirios, was taken away in chains by the Titans.
Behind Blue Eyes part 4: The Wondrous Woman.
After leaving Treft and while traveling north after their quarry the party met a pair of men, seemingly spying on a curious and beautiful woman. She was alone among a herd of deer and dressed in clothing seeming made from plants and festooned with flowers. Despite her uncommon beauty, she was unkempt with bits of leaf and twig in her golden hair. Her voice was soft and melodic, but clear as a ringing bell. She seemed to speak in song and found most things the party had to say as mere silliness or common child's play. About the men spying on her, she found the most amusement, and then with a magical quickness seemed to depart.
Behind Blue Eyes part 3: The Past
Traveling after the blue-eyed man, the party passes into a great mist and finds themselves in the distant past. This is still Erenth, and still Westrun, but the Eight Kingdoms have not yet come to be. This is the world just after the fall of the Vyrum Empire. The human cities that the party has come to know don't exist, yet. Most men live in roaming tribes, or behind palisades of wood, seeking out whatever strong men they may muster to call their leaders.
Behind Blue Eyes part 2: The Prisoner
The blue-eyed man explains to the party that he is a prisoner of that place and has been for centuries. During the time of his imprisonment, he has come to see the error of his ways. Now he only wants out to make things right. He wonders if someone in the party might take his place. By so doing, he can leave and try to fix everything he ever did wrong.
Behind Blue Eyes part 1: The Tower
After saving the daughter of Damaskos, A party of adventurers arrives in the Town of Tourville in the Kingdom of Treft. They are there coincidentally for an annual contest of regional youth.
Leaving the Khard part 2
"Sooner or later we are going to have to fight this thing," whispered Brumbar.
Snow took no such precautions. In normal tones he said, "I calculate that we can be here for sixteen hours before the spell breaks."
"Where is here?" asked Brumbar, still whispering, and looking around.
Leaving the Khard part 1
I can't decide what I like least," Snow offered, sneaking a glance at the withering noonday sun.
Shepherd Brendan looked at him, interested.
Brumbar only grunted and scowled, but then again, the knight had been grunting and scowling for days.
The drover, Saeed, on the other hand, ignored the lot of them. He was the only Southruner in the group and he seemed unaffected by the heat.
Snow continued his complaint, "I can't decide whether it is the sand in my boots or the glare in my eyes."
Graverobbers of Bylos part 4
The Satrap leaned back and swirled his steaming black wine in its golden bowl. "So you say."
Graverobbers of Bylos part 3
Snow and Brumbar ignored his grumbling, but the two men lent to the company by the Emir of Bylos did not. Instead, they jabbered at him in dahlese and covered their lips with a finger.
Snow interpreted. "They say that we should talk less because this is a place for the sleeping dead."
Rojer clapped his hands together and the sound of it echoed in the crypt. "Exactly! I hate that every time I seem to get some coin in my pocket, I end up with you two in some place forsaken by man and gods alike and trafficking among the dead."
Grave Robbers of Bylos part 2
"That is my mother's earring!" Nazeer exclaimed, loudly. "She gave the pair to my sister on her death bed."
"Your sister will bring a war, your grandeur." The voice speaking belonged to the vizier in the small court of the Palace of Bylos. He was an old man, bald and lame --leaning upon a staff too long for him. He bent down and spoke quietly.
The emir pursed his lips and settled into thought.
"Your sister will bring a war, your grandeur." The voice speaking belonged to the vizier in the small court of the Palace of Bylos. He was an old man, bald and lame --leaning upon a staff too long for him. He bent down and spoke quietly.
The emir pursed his lips and settled into thought.
Grave Robbers of Bylos part 1
The Origin of Shepherd Joscius
Joscius had seen battle before he entered the Arcade. Beneath the walls of Wanderhalt, as the armies of men sallied forth to break the great goblin siege.
It was in the shield wall that he met Prefect Crispin.
Earns nickname "Old Mule"
Graduates after 3 years in the Arcade.
Tapped to join the Most Learned Brothers of Wr. Planos
Mission to find Shepherd Dalen (tall, blond-haired, blue-eyed male with some Northrun blood)
Joined by Ahlam the Priest and Sir Calem his "brother" (a ward of his noble father).
Journey to Southrun.
Put on the Island of Nasik
Fought the Hag
Carried to mainland by the Hermit
It was in the shield wall that he met Prefect Crispin.
Earns nickname "Old Mule"
Graduates after 3 years in the Arcade.
Tapped to join the Most Learned Brothers of Wr. Planos
Mission to find Shepherd Dalen (tall, blond-haired, blue-eyed male with some Northrun blood)
Joined by Ahlam the Priest and Sir Calem his "brother" (a ward of his noble father).
Journey to Southrun.
Put on the Island of Nasik
Fought the Hag
Carried to mainland by the Hermit
Playing with the Dressing: Part 2 of the Profligate Nephew
The Profligate Nephew
The House of Agnolo has run the Bank of Aqilia in the Free Provinces for centuries, and seldom has a problem collecting from its debtors. But the Free Provinces are across the Dagger Sea from Westrun, and from time to time the nobles of the Eight Kingdoms do seem to forget that they have debts to pay.
The Pearl of Certain Perils
How aptly named, this Pearl of Certain Perils.
Traveling by means of the pearl's magical portal, the party finds itself out of the proverbial frying pan and into the fire.
Is this the Khard?
Traveling by means of the pearl's magical portal, the party finds itself out of the proverbial frying pan and into the fire.
Is this the Khard?
The Daughter Damaskos
In Laketon, Lady Carma and Onogg the Goblin Priest were approached by the Prefect who bid them to deliver a message to the Prefect of Treft so that the troubles in Twin Peaks could be eradicated. Carma and Onogg agreed, leaving the rest of the party behind for a few days.
The Judgement of the Sea King
In my former letter, I wrote of Crustis the Reef Giant and his introduction at court. In this I speak of Nan Fung Lee Mai and her retinue and all that they suffered before the King of the Reef People. It is a tale I heard from reliable sources and I wrote it almost immediately after the events that transpired.
Crustis of the Sea People
I will never forget that fateful day during the monsoon season. It was the kind of day that looms large in a man’s memory. The sort of day that makes one realize that Erenth is a much larger place and home to many more creatures than most can imagine.
The Terror South
An excerpt from the Tale of Five Terrors
as told by Will of Jaehn.
After traveling 22 days the party comes to the point at which the southern servant to Bouzir says the party should make contact with the Terror in 6 hours time.
as told by Will of Jaehn.
After traveling 22 days the party comes to the point at which the southern servant to Bouzir says the party should make contact with the Terror in 6 hours time.
The Skeleton Way
After reuniting with the caravan and curing the hobbled pony, the party sent the caravan on alone while they investigated a massive footprint of a humanoid which they estimated to have been over one hundred feet tall. The trail of said humanoid, while very old, went into the sparse forest and perhaps accounted some strange features they saw from the air.
Getting a Clue
With Rensen, the pregnant concubine safely returned to Chidak the Daizu chieftain, the party set out once again for the City/State of Chiro. Along the way, Snow's new armor became a matter of some intrigue. As an expensive and well-crafted suit of leather it conferred excellent protection, it was also noticed by every thieving heart. Most of which also tried to make it their own -- even when the attempt was clearly ill-fated.
The Way of the Sword
Having resolved issues in Laster Shores, the party was made aware of a kidnapping and went to investigate. Apparently, a visiting dignitary was carried off by persons unknown. That dignitary was none other than Rensa, the concubine of a wealthy and ruthless Daizu Wang. The Wang, Chidak of the Red Dawn Tribe, had a reputation as a remorseless and indefatigable enemy. For that reason, the local priest, Shepherd Hutan, thought it best for Laster Shores if the ire of such a one did not get kindled against the town -- which he would surely hold responsible.
Kiss Kiss Stab Stab
After being feasted and celebrated in Merrydale, the party set out for destinations East. They bid their grateful hosts goodbye at the Old Coast Road and fell in with a passing caravan.
Two men-at-arms responsible for guarding the caravan were grateful for the company of knights. The itinerant half-orc priest traveling with them made fast acquaintance with the Paladin Brumbar and the half-orc knight Deathstroke.
Two men-at-arms responsible for guarding the caravan were grateful for the company of knights. The itinerant half-orc priest traveling with them made fast acquaintance with the Paladin Brumbar and the half-orc knight Deathstroke.
Briefly: From the Library of Samantha Rose
Dear Diary,
I have not trusted a man since I was 13 and the old herbalist tried to have his way with me. Instead, I have dedicated myself to the arcane arts and to Drawmij my master. I have attempted to master the old knowledge -- to bend matter, energy and time to my will. So it is strange indeed that these last few days I have felt powerless over something as insignificant as my heart.
I have not trusted a man since I was 13 and the old herbalist tried to have his way with me. Instead, I have dedicated myself to the arcane arts and to Drawmij my master. I have attempted to master the old knowledge -- to bend matter, energy and time to my will. So it is strange indeed that these last few days I have felt powerless over something as insignificant as my heart.
Briefly: From the Journal of Sheikh Fadal
My sleep has been interrupted of late with dreams of my missing girls. My have they grown! Chafika would have been 12, I think. Nada only 10 when they were taken from me. In these dreams they are grown women now.
The Red and the White
Brumbar arrived in Merrydale and made contact with Marjon the Druid who was horrified to find that the artifact had been removed from where it was hidden. He advised the Paladin to return it at once to its secret garden. There it was generally safe from scrying eyes. An item as powerful as it was sure to attract unwanted attention.
Lord Zerai the Collector
Possession of the Halfling artifact weighed heavily upon him, so Brumbar decided to leave Gelder and the domains of men in order to return it to the Halfling Realm of Merrydale from whence it came. The rest of the party was to remain behind in Gelder for his quick return, with the exception of Apollo, who had a matter of vengeance to see to in Bolden. Unfortunately for Apollo, the boat leaving Gelder was not due to depart for another four days.
The Boat of Boblo
By spending six weeks in Gelder, the party enjoyed some celebrity for bringing peace between the Halfings and Humans. In the Princeling’s Rest, they happened upon the last remnant of the lifkavir resistance group – four Halfling “warriors” who were barely out of their teens. The remaining lifkavir were speaking conspiratorially when their confidence was won by Forgo, the party’s recently recruited halfling thief.
Flight of the White Scourge and All that Glitters is not Gelder
Most of the party remained in Gelder enjoying the recently won peace of the town and the fame that came with it. while Solomon backtracked to Ald Calta to train with the Black Order of the Dawn and Brumbar used his magic carpet to deliver Thalwyn to the baroness of Shu.
Halfling Holiday
After a few days of funeral and burial, Reverend Sir Brendan spent five weeks training with the Chaplain of the Black Order of the Dawn -- a prefect of no low station. The rest of the party recuperated and finally bid adieu to Sir Rojer and his Blackguards (a group of 12 newly minted knights who pledged themselves to that knight’s service).
Backstory: Solomon
In my time, I’ve met men and women of extraordinary talent. I always sit quietly, patiently listening to their tales. As they stand and beat their chest victoriously, they tell of their most worthy adversary -- those they each know as the devil.
They gather at tables by the dozen, in their pubs and halls, slapping each other on the back and sloshing their drinks as they measure and size one another.
The Bone War of Ald Calta
After a week’s convalescence in Shamsel, the party re-encountered Rojer, formerly of the bridge. He was in the town streets recruiting. He was also in possession of the sword, helm and armor of Faltus. When they inquired as to the health of their former employer, Rojer admitted that he had slain the man for being a thief, and taken his goods.
The City of Ruin
While on the way to the ruined city, the party learned the story of Ald Calta. The ancient place had three types of inhabitants over its long and legendary existence. First, were the so-called Dragon Princes of old, who abandoned the citadel when their world came to an end. Second, were the barbarian men who came to settle there and make a civilization of their own. Third came the undead who rose from the ashes of the previous two. It was against this third group that the party was forced contend.
The Knight of the Crossing
Across the Dagger Sea, the party arrived in the Provinces, but not before the half-breed Deathstroke managed to offend the captain and crew. On the voyage across the sailors first filled his ears with tales of shipwrecks and treasures beneath the waves. Consumed by the lust for this fantastical booty, he begged and cajoled the captain to set anchor so that he might ply the depths. Instead, he was dragged behind the ship for miles and roundly mocked. Once back aboard, he offended and threatened many to the point that they bound and gagged him and left him with his companions on a stretch of sandy shore without even benefit of a port.
The Province of Haller and Hallerhall
By the pronouncement of the King of Bolden, Sir Brumbar, was elevated to the status of a noble and appointed the Baron of Haller and given the keys to Hallerhall itself. In the court of the king, this pronouncement was met with no little stirring among the assembled nobles. Here and there snorts of laughter could be heard along with the clearing of throats.
A Favor for Thomas
In the uneasy calm following the Guild War, the city watch was arresting those who carried weapons in the streets. Brumbar and Snow took shelter and succor from Fr. Thomas. For her part, the rescued Lady Geldorf refused to return to the castle under which she was imprisoned. Instead, she also took shelter while contemplating what courses of action were open to her -- a disgraced woman of good breeding.
A Tale of Two Guilds
Upon arriving in Bolden, Brumbar checked in with the church while Snow sought what information he could from more seedy sources. Information about Thalwyn was hard to come by, however. All Brumbar learned about was the local scandal of the Prince seeking a second marriage to a part-elven mistress. While, Snow learned that the men of Bolden do not part with information easily. He was forced to take work as a hired sword -- the better to learn the city and its environs.
The Hand and the Knife
While in the City of Bolden, Snow’s incessant snooping revealed that The Bakers were no ordinary street gang, but the name given to a particular branch of the so-called Thieves Guild, an entity which he was not aware existed.
Briefly: A Letter from Jym to his Betrothed
Dearest Emi,
I know your anger will be burning bright when you take this letter to Father Henstre and have it read. I hope that when the terrible heat of it has died, though, you will find a way to turn it to the warmth of lasting love.
I know your anger will be burning bright when you take this letter to Father Henstre and have it read. I hope that when the terrible heat of it has died, though, you will find a way to turn it to the warmth of lasting love.
An Uncommon Wedding
Armed with the salve of the Magister Sylvanus and certain knowledge of where to begin looking for Thalwyn, the party sets out North and East for Bolden. On the way they stop over in Heltorun. The city is all abuzz with news that a local nobleman's son will wed a common serf.
The Search for the Magic Lyre
After meeting Magister Sylvanus in the Mistwood, Sir Brumbar, and Snow worked out a deal to obtain a rare item in exchange for the wizards knowledge. While Father Brendan remained behind in the Mistwood to learn what he can of Elven body art.
Old Things Ought Not Be Disturbed
Rejoined in Peakshadow, Brumbar and Snow made fast re-acquaintance with Father Brendan. Their common cause was to find Erenth's only honest thief -- Thalwyn the Lawful. As their quarry is also a wizard, the three agreed to journey into the Mistwood to seek out the elven warlock rumored to reside within. It was hoped that he would be able to point them in the right direction.
Ashore At Last
Excerpted from the diary of Jack Presser, Captain of all the Ocean's Deep.
We have put ashore expecting to find habitation and civilization and found neither. This land is full of goblins! There is one building distant. It appears to have a strange red hue which is most visible when the sun is behind us. We make for it tomorrow.
We have put ashore expecting to find habitation and civilization and found neither. This land is full of goblins! There is one building distant. It appears to have a strange red hue which is most visible when the sun is behind us. We make for it tomorrow.
69 Days
Excerpts from the diary of Jack Presser, Captain of all the Oceans Deep.
Mad Jack they called me. Because I dared to say that a sea route might be found from Eastrun to Westrun by sailing toward the rising sun. First the kings of Westrun and their learned fools cast me from their courts. Then the princes of the Free Provinces laughed in my face. Finally, the emperors of Eastrun threatened to jail me. Finally, destitute and nearly hopeless, I found myself in the court of the baroness Mai Fung Lee of Shu, begging for ships and a chance to prove my theories.
Mad Jack they called me. Because I dared to say that a sea route might be found from Eastrun to Westrun by sailing toward the rising sun. First the kings of Westrun and their learned fools cast me from their courts. Then the princes of the Free Provinces laughed in my face. Finally, the emperors of Eastrun threatened to jail me. Finally, destitute and nearly hopeless, I found myself in the court of the baroness Mai Fung Lee of Shu, begging for ships and a chance to prove my theories.
The Governors Twenty
From the Diary of Myla called Halfelven.
Well, they did it.
I am not sure how with all the odds against them, but there is no doubt they succeeded. My ward, Toland, tells me that they are off the island, the Southrun assassins were stymied and the girl and her brother are safely out of the governor's clutches. That is success by anyone's standards.
Well, they did it.
I am not sure how with all the odds against them, but there is no doubt they succeeded. My ward, Toland, tells me that they are off the island, the Southrun assassins were stymied and the girl and her brother are safely out of the governor's clutches. That is success by anyone's standards.
Briefly: Wanted Dead or Alive
A Notice to All Sell Swords and Bounty Hunters and the Decent Peoples of Bolden,
Be you warned that our streets are plagued by vile and uncivilized foreigners,
who are both thieves and murderers of honest tradesmen, and eaters of horses.
Be you warned that our streets are plagued by vile and uncivilized foreigners,
who are both thieves and murderers of honest tradesmen, and eaters of horses.
Briefly: One Satyrday in Bolden
Hendy entered the study and cleared his throat.
The boss decided not to look up, but from the corner of his eye he could see the idiot bouncing on his heels. The damn fool had something to say and would stammer like an idiot for ten minutes before getting his thoughts and/or courage up. The boss decided he didn't feel like waiting to put him out of his misery.
"What is it?"
The boss decided not to look up, but from the corner of his eye he could see the idiot bouncing on his heels. The damn fool had something to say and would stammer like an idiot for ten minutes before getting his thoughts and/or courage up. The boss decided he didn't feel like waiting to put him out of his misery.
"What is it?"
The Hospitality of Duke Havenar pt. 2
After the slaying of the leprechaun; Lord Budokai, Lady Mai and Lu-Chen are joined by Sir Jarvis, lately come from Wanderhalt; and a Ranger arrived to investigate the rumors of the cat on behalf of the mysterious White Robes. The group has little time for discussing their mutual interests before they hear another pedestrian coming along on the wooded path.
The Hospitality of Duke Havenar pt. 1
Having donated his portion of the mystery ore to King Aleyn (less what would be needed for the fashioning of a few items) Budokai purposes to leave Collonia and return to Menea and his wife. Lu Chen and Mai agree to go with him, at least as far as the Pass at Oromir.
Cache a Fallen Star pt. 7
A rescued Dwarf by the name of Hafgar identifies himself as a master smith and agrees to work the mysterious ore for the party in exchange for mere room and board.
Catching Up: The Further Travels of Ziek pt. 3
Fleeing the burning barn, Ziek and Ward made good time before the sun rose. They ate the last of their rations on the road and put in a full day’s travel, and then some.
Cache a Fallen Star pt. 6
The Frost Giant Shaman is somewhere in the complex. The party stands having defeated most of the Jarl's forces in combat. Two Stone Giants are captive and scores of dwarves come spilling into the courtyard from some unseen warren. The party decides to move with haste. Leaving Beleg behind to treat with his fellow Dwarves, they disregard the door through which the Shaman was seen retreating, and head into the manor from the side entrance. They immediately surprise another Frost Giant who works in the kitchen and dispatch him before he can beg for quarter.
Backstory: Lita
Lita grew up in a small village called Winston, on the outskirts of the Mistwood Forest. She came from an ordinary home. Her parents had a small house and garden, where they grew enough food to survive. Her father, who was rumored to be a Ranger in his youth, was a great hunter. There was always meat on the table for dinner. His name was Leonard, and his wife was Isabella.
Men Stomp Where Elves Fear to Tred
Two sell-swords, Bronn and Assaad find themselves in a public house in Rath and unemployed. Their waitress brings their latest round of drinks along with a notice from a person unknown.
Men-at-Arms Wanted
for a task most dangerous.
Rewards commensurate.
Inquire of Mr. Hobbes,
at Penn Oyal's Inn
The Brothers Unprepared
Dunsmyr and Dinsmyr, twin brothers and half breed elves of the Mistwood are summoned to the Tower of their Wizard, the Llormaster of the Mistwood. There they find that Magister Sylvanus has taken leave of the tower and left his primus, Tuorwyn in charge. Tuorwyn has an offer for the two half-elves.
Briefly: Wanted Dead or Alive?
Attention Road Weary and Restless Souls the wood hereabout is haunted by a brigand
and a murderer of honest men.
Backstory: Samantha Rose
Balduren, City of the Horse Lords, is built on a narrow peninsula that juts into the Great Sea. It boasts massive walls, decorated with the graven images of the animal which is highly revered there. It is also a port city, from which many set sail to the strange Land of Southrun. It boasts tens of thousands of residents, and is the home of the Great Warrior King Belasarus and of Drawmij the Wizard.
Catching Up: The Further Travels of Ziek pt. 2
Finally, coming to the Lake of Mist, they made contact with Caelfa, a Great Druid, who spoke to them cryptically but truthfully. She finally revealed the history of Collonia as she knew it. For her predecessor was none other than Tersia whose writings had other details to spare. Thus armed with some hidden history, Ziek and his adept decided to journey to Peakshadow to visit the archives there. For they surmised that a true copy of the book might exist in the High King's library.
The Haunted Forest of Talir pt. 2
The Town of Umfreville is a logging community that provides valuable lumber to noble houses across all of the Eight Kingdoms. Said nobles use it to panel their manors and the interior walls of their halls. But, the wood harvested here is also highly prized by the finest boatwrights for its superior water resistance. The local Baron makes his living by using his serfs to harvest lumber and mill it. The party is not made of loggers, though, they have come to solve a murder at the behest of the victim's 12 year old daughter.
Apollo of the Creed pt 5: The Third Quest
Apollo found himself, along with the rest of his companions, in and around the City of Peakshadow, as the mighty horde of goblins besieged it. Many sorties were fought and there were many distractions of war, with heroes from around the realm flocking to the banner of humanity. This included the entire Peerage that Apollo sought to join, which brought itself to Wanderhalt to protect the women therein. So it was that, in the shadow of the salvaged city, Lunsford of Saklan released Apollo from his quest and declared it well-accomplished, thereby granting to him the authority to turn undead.
Endstory: The Passing of Thalwyn and Gurdand
Such an ignoble end for two storied adventurers -- Thalwyn, the elven thief who would not lie; and Gurdand, the dwarven Curate whose loyalties were sorely tested.
Briefly: In Peakshadow
At the conclusion of his training under Clem, Garland is set to receive another spell from his wizened master. He asks specifically for the spell called, Teleport without Error and he presents the magister with the Black Unicorn's horn as a gift. The two of them are in the richly appointed study of the master, situated as one of the top floors of his tower. It boasts a panoramic view of Peakshadow.
Cache a Fallen Star pt. 5
The adventure begins again in the great stone trough with Quin insisting that something isn't right about the construction. The party is weak and wounded from their last battle and know that more punishment is coming. They know they need respite. Still, Budokai looks to his faithful squire, the boy Jarvis, and informs him that his period of apprenticeship is over. Jarvis takes a knee before the old master knight who lays his sword upon each of the boy's shoulders in turn.
The Haunted Forests of Talir pt.1
While living off their fame in Glittermore, the party is joined by Ala the Sorceress who has come East in search of adventure more suited to her ability level. She, the Rangers Traven and Radolfo, and Fr. Brendan hear many rumors from the sailors and travelers through the Kingdom of Rath. They ignore most of them, but none are quite so intriguing as the rumors out of the Kingdom of Talir. These rumors indicate that the Sacred Forests are haunted by an unspeakable evil which has resulted in the loss of many woodsmen.
Endstory: The Death of Lucia Rijker, Paladin
Lucia Rijker knew the smell of the ocean. She had grown up in the Provinces and visited its sea ports often enough. The others in her company thought the town picturesque, but Glittermore was just another sea port to her. As with all sea ports, it was filled with ne'erdowells and mischief makers -- the sort of people who blow into town to drink away their wages and have their way with wanton women. Lucia knew them, too, and she did not approve.
Grim Tidings in Glittermore
A group of mercenary travelers stops over in the picturesque town of Glittermore on the South shores of the Kingdom of Rath. The populace of the town proves to be as friendly to visitors as the town is scenic. Glittermore relies heavily on merchants, pilgrims and travelers who are seeking respite from the road. All is good until the party mentions that they might be staying through the weekend, suddenly their reception turns a bit chilly.
Apollo of the Creed pt 4: The Second Quest continues
When last we left the tale, Apollo of the Creed had been challenged by Lunsford of Saklan to find someone "who is naked and to clothe them with nobility." Apollo interpreted this to mean the restoration of the so-called Scarlett Hood to the throne of Collonia. To do so, he purposed to find the sword of Rigel, son of Rigel, last King of Collonia.
Cache a Fallen Star pt. 4
Once again, the party stands on the field of recent battle... the twenty feet wide paved and walled "trough" that has been cut into the ridge of the Malochan Mountains. It runs to the West from this scene and toward the enclave of the Frost Giant Jarl. It also runs to the East toward the Mistwood Forest.
RETCONNED: Using scrolls while invisible
There is nothing I hate worse than getting hoisted by my own petard, except perhaps to have to retroactively adjust the continuity of a session. It always leaves a bad taste in my mouth to have to fix a session after it has been played. Now, it is true enough that Robby pointed this out during play, but I had to do some reading afterwards to check my own writings on the subject before I could make a ruling. I blame the fact that Steve doesn't have WiFi and my laptop was useless to me in his basement.
Bookkeeping: Help with the Halls
I have been working on my fighter's guilds. I have done a great deal of work on the other professional associations, but not much in this department, at all. So, I am looking for help. Experience awards are available for those who want to do some work in this area.
Briefly: In the Shire of Hillsdale
Freja and Budokai, along with Nor Nidrah the dwarven geologist were leading the company's mounts when they found themselves entering an area of rolling foothills. The narrow footpath from the quarry road slowly began to wind back and forth to avoid the hills rather than going overtop them and the way became unnecesarily long and tedious. So, instead of following it, the party of three and their beasts kept the wildly winding path to their left and walked along the tops of the hills in the straighter path.
Endstory: The Death of Oghren, House Ironbeard, Dun Balnolmor
From the Journal of Gneelix, Apprentice Illusionist
In the Year 5823, The first Week of the first Moon of Harvest, a Wavesday.
Master is having a bad week. I think he has eaten Gnostwick and Gnarlsley just as he has always threatened he would eat all of us. When these black moods come over him none are safe. We try to remind him that he is a vegetarian, but he seldom seems to hear our objection. Surely he must be jesting about the ignoble deaths of his own apprentices. But still, where are Gnostwick and Gnarlsley? To be invisible from Master is punishable by death. So even if it were true that they did not die under Master's hand (fork?) surely they will for this.
In the Year 5823, The first Week of the first Moon of Harvest, a Wavesday.
Master is having a bad week. I think he has eaten Gnostwick and Gnarlsley just as he has always threatened he would eat all of us. When these black moods come over him none are safe. We try to remind him that he is a vegetarian, but he seldom seems to hear our objection. Surely he must be jesting about the ignoble deaths of his own apprentices. But still, where are Gnostwick and Gnarlsley? To be invisible from Master is punishable by death. So even if it were true that they did not die under Master's hand (fork?) surely they will for this.
Cache a Fallen Star pt. 3
The party stands on the field of recent battle... a twenty feet wide paved "trough" that has been cut into the ridge of the Malochan Mountains. It runs to the West from this scene of battle and toward the enclave of the Frost Giant Jarl. It also runs to the East toward destinations unknown.
Apollo of the Creed pt 3 -- Second Quest
After leaving the presence of Yanlong of Shu, Apollo was instructed to find Lunsford of Saklan, also of the Order of the Sword and Rose, who had a three day head start from Peakshadow. Apollo raced after the Champion and received the command to, "Find someone who is naked and clothe them with nobility."
Backstory: Fung Lee Nan Mai
Here I sit in the damp and dark hold of this foul smelling merchant ship. I stowed aboard several days ago after fearing capture as a horse thief. The boat keeps rocking and listing. I’m not sure if it will ever stop and I cannot take much more of this. I have not been able to eat anything that I stole and I am running low on water. At least it is quiet on the decks above me.
Backstory: Beleg, House Marblefist, Dun Dynkyr
The peninsula of Dynkyr, land of the dispossessed Sundered Dwarves is prone to bitter in-fighting and viscious back-biting over genealogies and the precedences of succession. These struggles go back two thousand years to the untimely and heirless death of Regn Banalar. While the nobility argue and scheme and plot, most of them act like they have given up for lost, the cause which should be foremost in their minds. It is a cause which still manages to capture the imaginations of patriots. That is, the Dun.
Endstory: The Death of Bjorn, House Tokill, Dun Balnolmor
I was there the day he died. I managed to be set free later by his servants and sought shelter among the halflings who live near the foot of those mountains. Mya and the Valkauna bear witness, I tell you what I saw with my own eyes, and heard with my own ears. I hold the hammer that bears his symbol for I secreted it when he was slain.
Cache a Fallen Star pt. 2
The train arrives to assist the van... well the first part of the train, anyway. Quin and Sabretooth arrive at the quarry in time to intimidate the cave bears from leaving the plateau. Father Patrick arrives without fanfare some time later, his report is that Beleg and Mourning Elk may be behind them still.
Backstory: Rumors Abound
The end of the organized conflicts on the Northern Marches has meant that one-time Scarlett Hood, now King Rigelson of Collonia, has been slowly but surely consolidating his power across the provinces. The mad High King in Peakshadow has frozen them out so one after another, the nobles are slowly coming in line with their new kings authority. He has the will of the people. He commands the respect of the armies. He has the friendship of heroes. He wields the sword of the kings of Collonia from centuries past. And, he defeated the goblin hordes once and for all, in a series of decisive battles. Its hard not to call him king and be taken seriously.
Apollo of the Creed pt 2 -- First Quest
The first righteous quest of the aspiring Apollo of the Creed was given to him by a Champion of the Holy Order of the Sword and Rose named Yanlong of Shu. Yanlong demanded that Apollo, “Find someone who was hungry and feed them with eternal food.” With that vague direction, Apollo returned to Peakshadow and attempted to buy all the groceries and non-perishing stores he could for the nearest peasant child -- a lad named Hugo.
Bookkeeping: Beleg's Time
925. That is the number of days between when Beleg was last at Wanderhalt and played by you a few years back, and then picked up by you to play again as you were going North to ask the Regn of Dun Balnolmor to pledge men, materiel or money to the liberation of Dynkyr.
Cache a Fallen Star pt. 1
After a week layover, first observing then selling a dragon hatchling, plus outfitting a party, and hiring Tireo -- a man-at-arms and veteran of the Battle of Wanderhalt -- the party sets out for the Malochan Mountains. The Dwarven geologist which has accompanied them hither and yon across all Westrun can scarcely believe the news. Addled though he was from his constant recourse to human wine, he still only had to be pointed firmly in the right direction for motivation. They leave in two groups with Mai, Budokai, Ohgren, Freja and Bjorn in the van. They believe they are followed by Quin, Beleg, Mourning-Elk, Patrick, Sabretooth in the train.Time will tell which of those heroes make it with them to their destination.
Dragon For Sale. Sold!
The newly hatched dragon, named Dave for the creepy feelings it aroused in its owner, was the source of growing unease for Budokai's henchmen. They were quickly reduced to drawing lots for the privilege of feeding it each day. At just a little under a foot long, with a disproportionately lengthy tail, the hatchling was already a source of fear. It went from mimicking vague vocalizations to parroting complete sentences in the exact tone and timber of the person overheard!
Bookkeeping: Bjorn's Hammer?
Bjorn would have picked up a hammer in Wanderhalt before leaving with the party going South. I had a flag that said it was done about two weeks before y'all left. Also he owes about two months worth of living expenses to catch up and account for.
*edited to change Biorn to Bjorn 3/3
*edited to change Biorn to Bjorn 3/3
Backstory: Apollo and Apollo of the Creed pt 1
Apollo was a commoner warrior from Peakshadow that met up with the nobles Quin and Mai and the rest of their retinue in the Eastrun metropolis of Shu. He was recruited as a replacement after the party lost its monk and another fighter. Apollo seemed handy with a sword and a bit hardier than the men who had fallen, so he was invited to join for a full share of treasure, plus funeral expenses as necessary.
Briefly: In Wanderhalt
While Budokai has been away, his students have been tending to the mysterious gray and white mottled egg he brought back from the plains. The geese he bought to sit on it in shifts have had to be kept in stupor to prevent them from pushing it from their nest. At last the long wait paid off, when an orange-eyed reptilian beast emerged from the egg and ate one of it's adoptive mothers. Since then it has consumed a goose a day at the expense of 5 bits.
Bookkeeping: A Mottled Dragon Egg?
I need information on the "mottled dragon egg" that Budokai has. Where it came from, which adventure, what happened about that time? I have the notes that says he has it, but for the life of me I have no recollection of the events. Leave me a comment. It could be worth your while, eh?
Briefly: Also in Peakshadow
In Peakshadow, Garland Green undergoes rigorous training from the Man in the Tower, Clem the Wizard. He spends several weeks doing so and before immersing himself in this training, assigns his lieutenants the task of moving his secreted stash of magic items from his old digs to the new compound that was constructed over the last year.
Wanderhalt by way of Peakshadow
After convalescing for a few days in Farrun, the party declines to assist Ferraganno the Provincial seaman's purser in the recovery of his daughter from the pirates of Free City. The desperate man attempts to sweeten the pot, offering them information regarding a stash of loot left behind by other adventurers, including the location of a magical flail -- the description of which is familiar to Mai from ancient legends, but the party cannot be moved.
Briefly: In Peakshadow
In Peakshadow, the Patriarch has received some word from Eamon, Prefect of the Provinces. The issue concerns church polity but he wants a missive returned by the hand of those "in the church's bosom." He commissions the Paladins Almonroka and Brumbar to deliver it.
*edited to change Almonroca to Almonroka 3/4
*edited to change Almonroca to Almonroka 3/4
The Children of Sashelas
After being feasted and celebrated by the people of New Farrun, the party finds respect for the curious inky wine of that people. They are each given sets of silk pajamas, a blue steel dagger with mother of pearl inlaid grips, and a nautically themed item of jewelry.
Patrick refuses any gifts in lieu of spending several days locked into a room with a penitent curate who seeks more information about the ecclesiology of the church of Westrun.
This rewards do not slake their thirst for loot, so the party purposes to look for the lair of the beast they slew. Once again using the enchanted water-breathing shell, the party ventures back into the deep. Beleg announces to the party that he has the ability to find silver. Mai says she can do the same with magically enchanted items. The journey takes some twelve hours of searching spread across two days, but they come at last to a submerged reef. Just as they approach, the party is pulled off its feet by some sort of netted snare.
When they recover, they find themselves in the company of the Children of Sashelas -- elves who appear to have gills and webbed fingers. Mai, half-elven songstress, recognizes the name of Sashelas as one of the Sedarine of old.
The Children of Sashelas are led by Sazoralan, captain of a war party in search of an evil creature. They have journeyed three days by mount to track a beast which matches the description of the party's tentacled former foe. When the party parleys successfully through Mai, the Children of Sashelas are relieved to discover that the beast is dead. Sazoralan agrees to allow the party to enter a lair they have claimed to remove an item in reward for their labors.
The items taken include a turquoise jewel, a pearl, a curious statue of a dancing elephant sporting a broken tusk, a bizarre eye sculpture set with a ruby, a shrunken human head with crystals for eyes, a crystal decanter and a single platinum piece -- this latter piece Budokai agrees to hold for his intrepid manservant.
The party makes several attempts to establish enduring trade routes with the Sea Elves, who seem little interested in commerce. They explain that they are scavengers and pillagers who take what they find as gifts from the surface world. They raid and make war upon the Sea Devils to help sustain themselves and aren't much for carrying goods across distances just to sell them. The party invites Sazoralan to New Farrun, but while he expresses an interest in seeing the Mines of Dwarves that he has heard in song, he is still too far from his much warmer home. He tells the party that should they ever come to the Island of the Tortoise, in the south, he will be glad to converse with them again.
The party again attempts to make some overture of commerce and Sazoralan finally relents, making a gift of a blue steel trident which has been in his family for three generations. Beleg returns the favor by handing him an axe of quality made at his forge in Bolden. The trident is a gift for great warriors who were able to slay such a fell creature as the many eyed, many tentacled beast. The Sea Elf admits that it entertains him to think of the Dwarf with the trident and that entertainment value alone is worth the apparent disparity in trade. The Children of Sashelas scoop up the rest of the beasts possessions in their netted bags and make all due haste for the South.
The party puts aside their commercial dreams and heads for shore. They aren't a half hour from this meeting, however, when they are set upon by fifty Sea Devils -- infantry backed by archers and further aided by a school of tiger sharks and two giant megalodons. Mai's magic makes short work of the Sea Devils infantry. The sharks and megalodons appear unwilling to enter the sphere of airy water projected by the Magical Shell and suddenly seem to obey the mental command of Beleg to disperse. The Sea Devil archers fall back.
When the party breaks water the remaining Sea Devils set upon them with curious short swords and nets. The nets serve to pull party members off their feet and out into the deep with alarming speed. Most of the party avoids this fate with handy blade work, but Sabretooth isn't so fortunate. He is dragged a half mile deeper out to sea before he can secure his own release and is promptly chewed on by one of the Megalodons. After slaying it, more from the inside than out, he finds himself half swallowed by the second, but makes even shorter work of that.
Meanwhile on shore, the martial prowess of Quin, the fire-based spell of Mai, and the uncanny leaping ability of Budokai the Aged have slain the Sea Devil prince and put his minions to flight. After several minutes, the party is reunited, wet, cold and bloody in the pounding surf. They return to the warm hearths of New Farrun where the populace is only too eager to hear tales of their latest exploits.
After five days of rest, relaxation and general wound-tending, the party is approached by a man who claims to be purser aboard a Provincial trader and given a sad tale of woe regarding his daughter and a pirate prince of Free City. The party is conflicted about their next course of action and a rift threatens over aiding the innocent or pursuing untold personal wealth in areas elsewhere.
*edited to replace Samantha with Patrick 2/18
*edited to replace Sabertooth with Sabretooth 2/27
Patrick refuses any gifts in lieu of spending several days locked into a room with a penitent curate who seeks more information about the ecclesiology of the church of Westrun.
This rewards do not slake their thirst for loot, so the party purposes to look for the lair of the beast they slew. Once again using the enchanted water-breathing shell, the party ventures back into the deep. Beleg announces to the party that he has the ability to find silver. Mai says she can do the same with magically enchanted items. The journey takes some twelve hours of searching spread across two days, but they come at last to a submerged reef. Just as they approach, the party is pulled off its feet by some sort of netted snare.
When they recover, they find themselves in the company of the Children of Sashelas -- elves who appear to have gills and webbed fingers. Mai, half-elven songstress, recognizes the name of Sashelas as one of the Sedarine of old.
The Children of Sashelas are led by Sazoralan, captain of a war party in search of an evil creature. They have journeyed three days by mount to track a beast which matches the description of the party's tentacled former foe. When the party parleys successfully through Mai, the Children of Sashelas are relieved to discover that the beast is dead. Sazoralan agrees to allow the party to enter a lair they have claimed to remove an item in reward for their labors.
The items taken include a turquoise jewel, a pearl, a curious statue of a dancing elephant sporting a broken tusk, a bizarre eye sculpture set with a ruby, a shrunken human head with crystals for eyes, a crystal decanter and a single platinum piece -- this latter piece Budokai agrees to hold for his intrepid manservant.
The party makes several attempts to establish enduring trade routes with the Sea Elves, who seem little interested in commerce. They explain that they are scavengers and pillagers who take what they find as gifts from the surface world. They raid and make war upon the Sea Devils to help sustain themselves and aren't much for carrying goods across distances just to sell them. The party invites Sazoralan to New Farrun, but while he expresses an interest in seeing the Mines of Dwarves that he has heard in song, he is still too far from his much warmer home. He tells the party that should they ever come to the Island of the Tortoise, in the south, he will be glad to converse with them again.
The party again attempts to make some overture of commerce and Sazoralan finally relents, making a gift of a blue steel trident which has been in his family for three generations. Beleg returns the favor by handing him an axe of quality made at his forge in Bolden. The trident is a gift for great warriors who were able to slay such a fell creature as the many eyed, many tentacled beast. The Sea Elf admits that it entertains him to think of the Dwarf with the trident and that entertainment value alone is worth the apparent disparity in trade. The Children of Sashelas scoop up the rest of the beasts possessions in their netted bags and make all due haste for the South.
The party puts aside their commercial dreams and heads for shore. They aren't a half hour from this meeting, however, when they are set upon by fifty Sea Devils -- infantry backed by archers and further aided by a school of tiger sharks and two giant megalodons. Mai's magic makes short work of the Sea Devils infantry. The sharks and megalodons appear unwilling to enter the sphere of airy water projected by the Magical Shell and suddenly seem to obey the mental command of Beleg to disperse. The Sea Devil archers fall back.
When the party breaks water the remaining Sea Devils set upon them with curious short swords and nets. The nets serve to pull party members off their feet and out into the deep with alarming speed. Most of the party avoids this fate with handy blade work, but Sabretooth isn't so fortunate. He is dragged a half mile deeper out to sea before he can secure his own release and is promptly chewed on by one of the Megalodons. After slaying it, more from the inside than out, he finds himself half swallowed by the second, but makes even shorter work of that.
Meanwhile on shore, the martial prowess of Quin, the fire-based spell of Mai, and the uncanny leaping ability of Budokai the Aged have slain the Sea Devil prince and put his minions to flight. After several minutes, the party is reunited, wet, cold and bloody in the pounding surf. They return to the warm hearths of New Farrun where the populace is only too eager to hear tales of their latest exploits.
After five days of rest, relaxation and general wound-tending, the party is approached by a man who claims to be purser aboard a Provincial trader and given a sad tale of woe regarding his daughter and a pirate prince of Free City. The party is conflicted about their next course of action and a rift threatens over aiding the innocent or pursuing untold personal wealth in areas elsewhere.
*edited to replace Samantha with Patrick 2/18
*edited to replace Sabertooth with Sabretooth 2/27
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