(Completed) Campaign Journal - Tethys: Fool's Gold (DnD 5ed)

[Havoc]

Like I promised, another session. Our little group went unprepared, straight into the belly of the beast. Still not decided on the name for Feywild - Evergreen or Neverending Green (like Neverending Story).

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Chapter VIII

Session 69: When Running is the Only Resort

A giant dinosaur attacked the group. Thankfully, he had a shitty roll for initiative. He got swarmed by Baâ's summon. She summoned 16, yes, SIXTEEN, wolves. 1/4 CR each. They did some damage to the beast, which in turn swiped with his tail and killed more than half of them. The group fought bravely, then they were attacked from behind by a small group of undead creatures. Similar in appearance to the dinosaur. Mainly skeleton, some bark, wood, and vines. The group was able to put down the big beast with Mario ending it with a critical Divine Smite, ripping it in half (like Rules of Nature moment from Metal Gear Rising). They found the undead creatures that could rise up from their wounds, which indicated they were undead trolls. The group used fire to finish them.

Elhaeltôr and Balasar joined the group (they couldn't be at the start). The undead bodies decomposed like the previous one. Pretty quickly into dust. The group decided to take a short rest. Baâ used her summons for scouting and patrols, but halfway there the magic disappeared, something destroyed them. During their rest, they talked about their next move and what to do with the forest. In the end, they decided to try... diplomacy. Finn tried to talk to Hand of Midnight by talking "into the air". He succeeds the Persuasion test with a high result, so the forest answered. A sudden wind, the grass, and plants moved, like creating a path for the group into the city. This was the moment Finn's little friend showed up. He tried his best to pull the halfling from this place. They tried to talk to him, which they could only deduce that he feared that Finn is walking to his death. Knowing that this creature doesn't have normal animal intelligence, Elhaeltôr used his Telepathic Bond spell to combine their minds. The white rat spoke. He didn't know what was there, but he just "knew" that Finn is going to die there. The group asked for the rat's name, but he didn't have any. Asked what his master, some kind of Fey, call him, he answered "Hey, you", so he gained a name in Elven - Yee-lle. He made Finn promise that if something bad will be happening, that they will run away. The little rat told the group, he will try to talk to someone, ask for help. He jumped into Finn's pocket, disappearing and breaking the bond - meaning he changed planes of existence. The group ventured forth into the Goldplated Keep.

The whole city was filled with trees, plants, and grass. Even stone roads weren't safe, the rocks broke and "life found a way" to grow. They went past districts where they recognized the architecture. Some even were nice to the eye, especially for Balasar, since he didn't saw his home in many months, years even. Seeing some architecture from the south was very soothing. The group then saw statues made out of bark, wood, and vines. They were very lifelike. The quick realization dawned on them. Those were creatures that were turned into the statues. Almost all were in poses of fright and horror. The group recognized many humanoid ones - mainly humans, but also gnomes, half-elves, half-orcs, elves, dragonborn and even some halfling, just a couple of those. They were put in "artistic" places, like a collection. Solange even found a cleric of Lord Sun. However, he felt that there was no soul inside, these were just remains. They knew that from checking creatures before and now knocking on their heads to hear the similar sound of bone inside. This Hand of Midnight wasn't a nice person. They went forward, not wanting to keep the woman waiting. When they got close, the stone buildings and roads disappeared. Once a giant palace or castle stood in the center, with a district of high nobles, now it was filled with plant life and only plant life. It felt like they were inside the heart of this whole forest. When they ventured inside, they saw a small garden, filled with more statues. However, there were also other creatures there. Beasts of many types turned into those horrifying statues. Then they saw one of the statues move.

Hand of Midnight​

Humanoid in appearance and height. She was made mainly from wood. Her dress like from sticks, that moved like a real dress, even reacting to the wind. Her face had no features except for one - the mouth, which didn't move. The creature moved towards the group and spoke, and when she did, the group felt that the voice is coming from all around them. The mouth didn't move. She greeted them, even asked how they like her collection. Finn was mainly doing the talking. However, it became really apparent that she isn't someone who they will talk out of. Her mouth started to crack at the sides. The wood opened a little, creating a terrifying smile on her featureless face (something like this). She wanted to make them a part of her collection. Elhaeltôr joked that he wouldn't make a good piece, so she commented that "Why no, Harthion Gold Leaf would make a fine acquisition." She knew who they were, just by them standing in her forest. They did gain some information, she apparently sold her soul and heart to others for this power and even tricked them, so she gained more. Another red flag was when the group saw their path was closing. The second was that it was becoming darker - the plants overgrew the little garden, making it impossible to fly out without going through them. The group decided to fight. However, thanks to Finn's high roll, he gained some insight into her motivations. A good roll made her reveal why she changed everything around her during the first decades. All those that opposed her. All those that dared to call her a whore. She wasn't one. She was a High Lady. Their rumors. She couldn't stop them. She bargained. She wanted revenge. She wanted power. To show everyone. And now, they all are turned into statues or dead.

The combat was harsh. The group was hit with a Sunburst, blinding half of them and dealing some big damage. The rest charged at her and sliced her one by one. However, she had many powers. The elements were on her side and with a flick of a finger, she shoots out fire, acid, lighting or cold. She also controlled the nature around the group, which suddenly rose up and hit everybody, when the roots wanted to impale everybody. After she was "defeated", her body turned into sticks and fell to the ground. Some saw that she was rooted into the ground and as quickly as she fell, she rose again. Her body was sucked up into the ground, while her form raised behind the group. She shot more elements, almost turning Elhaeltôr into an ice sculpture, while Balasar was hit with a lot of acid. The group was using their spells and tricks over and over, while the creature didn't look changed after she rose from the ground. They deduced that she had something, a heart maybe, somewhere in this forest or underground. However, they couldn't fight her and search for it. Elhaeltôr and Finn (the halfling saw it thanks to the little rat that pulled his shirt, wanting them to run away) saw a way out. Hand of Midnight didn't clean all the rocks out. Some still stood and made a small passage, that had some elven runes on it. The group retreated, with Mario, Solange, and Balasar staying behind. She died again. She rose up again. Like no damage was done to her. Outside, they found themselves on one of the widest roads of the city, maybe a promenade road. They saw more archers around them, so the group tried their best to hide between the rocks and run away. Elhaeltôr wanted to Finn to use his Fly spell to get some people out of here, but they both saw the little rat trying to point the group in the different direction. They decided to follow him.

Evergreen (Feywild)​

The group ran away from the archers. Went inside one of the districts of the city, filled up the brim with plant life. More trees that they saw before. After a while of running, there were no pursuers. They looked around. There were no roads, no buildings. The climate changed, it felt different than the jungle they were in. The sky had a different tint and even the trees were larger, by a magnitude. They weren't in the same plane, Finn recognized this place. They got to the Evergreen. Suddenly they hear somebody approach, hooves. Finn recognized him as Simon the Satyr (or Satyr Simon). He greeted the group noting that "he expected them sooner."

 

[Havoc]

End of chapter. Thought it would end at the tower, but now we went with something different. Solange was out. Elhaeltôr and Mario were out at the start but came later. Balasar had to go near the end when going to the Duke.

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Chapter VIII

Session 70: Of Pain and Gnomes

Out little carefree group met with Simon the Satyr (or Satyr Simon). He explained to them where they are and that he is a guide in this realm. First thing, the way back is tricky and dangerous. He advised not to go back since the Hand of Midnight will kill them. He heard of her but that doesn't mean she has control in the Evergreen. It's the land of the fey still. Her land however grows and it's a lot bigger than it was hundreds of years ago. He doubts she can be even killed. Second, there are other ways in and out of the Evergreen, but none near that the group will like. Third, this place plays tricks with time and memory, so the group needs to watch out what they do, especially when returning to their world. The worst case scenarios are that while they spent a day in Evergreen, it was a minute outside or it could be a year. Elhaeltôr and Solange got touched by Sleepyhead. They went to sleep and can't be awakened, while in that time their bodies are 1/10 of their original weight. The elf, however, isn't in a sleeping state, more in a trance. He has visions, like being on drugs. Simon said it's because the elves have an innate connection to the Evergreen, unlike most other races.

While conversing with the group, the satyr told them that there might be someone who can help them. Simon knows that somebody was long ago studying Hand of Midnight before she grew to such a power. The person in question is still alive, he thinks. One of the Archfey would know and he told them about Duke of Pain. In the Evergreen (like in most Feywild incarnations) is a place of literal metaphors. Archfeys feed on human emotions and interaction. So the Duke of Pain is an Archfey that feeds on human misery - the loss of loved ones the most. He might tell the group where to look and even point them to the exit. He told them that to get to the Archfey they need to either go to the Old Tree or to the Bison Hills. From there, they would see the castle of Duke of Pain. While talking to Simon, it was revealed that he knows more about Hand of Midnight - he knew which of the Archfey the woman signed a pact with. Lord of Darkness has her soul but isn't willing to part with it.

The group tried to convince Simon to guide them straight to Duke of Pain, however, he wanted something in return. The group thought what he could get, so he went dozen or so meters from them to the nearest rock that he can sit on. Finn tried to have a competition with the satyr but instead of music, Simon took out a sketchbook. While Finn started to draw something, the Satyr finished first. Showed to him and the group his work, it was a drawing of three people. Elhaeltôr and Solange, who were still out cold, were drawn heavily wounded, at the brink of death, while Baâ stood next to them, with arrows sticking out of her body and fury on her face. The group decided to rest and leave the two small creatures alone. Finn showed Simon his work - a naked Baâ, but the satyr only laughed and told him that he doesn't need him, even if he draws naked nymphs on his spare time. He spoke with Finn, that he sees someone in pain inside him. He showed him another drawing, this time of Finn, alone, crying, sitting next to a tree with a flower in his hand. The halfling felt that this scene was too familiar to him. However, the satyr didn't want to hear it and talked about him and the group he is traveling with. Mainly talks about not worrying that they don't ask questions about their past, that the future is in their hands and only that counts. They both returned to the group and the talks about convincing the satyr to guide them continued. Not knowing what to give him, Simon asked Mario about his biggest loss, which shook the paladin. After a moment, he spoke about his father and uncle, how he feels he is to blame for the death of the former and rise to power of the latter. He was unwilling to continue the conversation, so Simon said he will guide them to the Duke of Pain, but they need to rest. The next "day" they were ready to travel. They felt that they barely spent time in the Evergreen and went out to find answers. This was also the moment Elhaeltôr woke up. They explained to him what was going on and traveled to Bison Hills since that was what they decided.

(a baby fey bison)​

When he spoke "Bison Hills" it wasn't a joke or metaphor. The bison were titanic. Giant as a small city. Their feet could easily stomp down a building or two. When they walked, the earth shook. Quakes happened near their stomps, leaving craters behind. This meant that it was hard to travel. They talked about going over the "hills" using the Fly spell, however, that would allow them only about 3-4 kilometers, while "running". They could get to their destination, which they saw just a single tower of darkness behind the bison. They tried to convince Simon to lead them, however, he said that they didn't agree to it, which made Elhaeltôr chime in since the wording of his promise said otherwise. He sighed and agreed to take the group, guide them between bison. On the way, he warned them about trolls coming to this parts, taking child bison. Which would quite the sight. Remind you, these bison had hair that were as thick as a tree, so if the hair would swing at you, it would be like a log hitting you. The group ventured forth. They had to look out for the quakes, to not fall and stay behind. The bison, thankfully, weren't fast. So one foot took them about a minute to make a step, however, when it landed, it felt like a quake, especially nearby. While traveling, they encountered three trolls nearby. Two of them about the same height as normal. They looked spectral in nature. The idea was that they were "the idea of a troll" like "mind." While the third one, bigger and uglier. He sprouted new mouths, faces, heads, and arms all over, that appeared and disappeared. This was the "body" incarnation of a troll. They held one long wooden stick and stabbed a bison to the side, like searching for something between the hair. Elhaeltôr used his strongest spell Scatter and teleported the three trolls near him, to where the bison was about to make his stomp. They could have survived this, since they were trolls, but wounded it wouldn't make a decent challenge to make it worth our time, so I decided they were stomped into "non-existence". It would take a lot of time to regenerate for them. Completing that, they went to the forest of Duke of Pain.

The place looked depressing. Like weeping willow style all over the place. Some trees even had a sad or crying face. Simon guided them further until he stopped telling the group he won't show them more. This was the moment he needed to go. He wished them well and told the group to watch out. The world is changing, everybody can feel it. The group is going "places" and soon maybe even rival the gods, but who knows, he is just a satyr. He knows about the group, mainly thanks to the rat, since he likes to talk about their travels and adventures. He was about to leave when Baâ spoke up and gifted him a flute that she made. She rolled a natural one to create it, so when Simon thanked her and blew inside, it wasn't drilled all the way through, not making a sound. Finn tried to make a joke out of it, telling that it's a dog flute! He didn't roll high on deception, so the satyr saw right through it and blew again. This time, dog howls were heard in the forest. He thanked for the gift again and disappeared in the forest. The group ventured forth, not wanting to waste a minute. Especially Mario, he had a lot of responsibility and the thought of leaving the material world, his son and daughter, alone for years was taking a high toll on him. Deeper in the forest, they found an old ruin. It was well kept. Most of the things that were left were to remind of something bad that happened here. Like a memory of pain and suffering. In the center of the open ruins, saw a big creature almost bigger than a troll. Looked like a tree that was burned and it was still burning. Inside his humanoid chest, there were embers, like the fire never stopped. They also saw the flames, on his back. Eyes hollow, but other facial feature, glowed thanks to the fire inside him.

Duke of Pain
Unseelie Archfey​

They were in front of one of the Archfey. He greeted them and told them that they bring a lot of pain to those in their path. They take fathers and mothers, husbands and wives, sons and daughters, away from others. They bring pain and he is pleased. The group only answered that they do what is need to be done and he commented: "like everybody else." They asked him first about a way out, so he willingly pointed them to a direction, saying all they have to do is find a pond and jump into it, it will transport them back "home". Which was quite disconcerting for some, since that could mean they could be teleported somewhere different than the Golden Castle. However, the next question about Hand of Midnight would require a sacrifice. He told them that they already have chosen what they need to give him since they spoke about telling their biggest pains in life. Mario spoke that the satyr already asked about it, which the Duke replied: "of course, he is the Guide, he prepared you for this moment." They will gain some knowledge about the person who can help them, but only if they reveal pains that he can feed on. This, in turn, made him concentrate on the pain of others instead of his own. Baâ was the first one to step up. She summoned ghostly visages of a bear and deer. Telling the creature that this is her grandfather and sister. Every time he speaks with nature, with the ghosts, he sees them. Remembers the pain of losing them all over again. This made the embers in the creature's chest simmer down a little. He told them "the man you seek was greedy for knowledge, for answers. He didn't check and got caught. Now he is trapped in an item, that you once found but now forgot. His name is the key." Which could give you an idea what the item in question was if you followed the campaign from the start. Also, the person would be trapped for over 200 years and there was already a hint who it was. The next was Finn. He told them a shocker - he was once married, about 7-8 years ago. Happily married. Found the love of his life. Before he went to become a bard in Quadropolis. She was killed months after their wedding by orcs, while she traveled to the next village. Now, they know why he hates the orcs and was so adamant about not working with them. He told that it pains him to this day and he is still trying to fill a hole, that it left him with. The duke continued, with his embers glowing ever so darker, with another hint "you never met this person, however, you heard of him many times before. He was your predecessor in the canyon. The item you want is a place everybody goes while in there." Of course, hearing the sad story, Mario spoke to Finn, that he understood now why he made such bad jokes and will not judge him anymore for them. Mario was next. He spoke about the father he had, the loss he felt and how he feels it's all his fault. No matter what is now, he still feels that if he was different, he could have saved him, somehow. Finn said he knows who they are searching for and where. He asked about the gnome from Bone Coterie and the book they never bought. The Duke nodded. They now knew who can help them destroy Hand of Midnight. Mario spoke out telling that the duke didn't give a hint, so they gave him something for free. Displeased but convinced, the duke moved his hand, grasped air and pulled to him. He told them that now they only need to go in the direction he pointed and will leave the place near their destination. Elhaeltôr also wanted to speak about his greatest pain but he didn't remember it, which Duke of Pain even told him: "whatever you remember now, it isn't the greatest pain you suffered." Elhaeltôr asked if he knows about his curses, which the Duke nodded. He agreed to tell him about one of the curses - the Pain one or the Unknown one. Elhaeltôr asked to know more about the Unknown. "It is tied to something you hold very dear in your heart. If it will break, and not disappear, if you weaken it, instead of pulling it quickly, it will take that thing you love and bring you the biggest pain you felt, but also reveal to you the nature of that affection." He wasn't willing to say anything else and told them to leave, which they did.

Tulipe Gobblepock
Member of the Bone Coterie​

When they left the Evergreen, they appeared near Orth. They knew their destination now - Omould might have the book still. They went to Edrathil Silver Blade first, since he knew the gnome firsthand and knows his name in its entirety. There was no need to convince the old elf to help them. He couldn't believe that his friend is so near but believed that he would be so stupid to get himself caught in a book. They traveled to Omould and Edrathil bought the book, since the half-orc didn't have any luck. Asked, he told them again the story how he won the book cheap from a traveling merchant who came during the festival years ago. Elhaeltôr tried to identify the book, but the spell doesn't give you information about how it's cursed. It only gave them that you need to speak the command word to open it. The group went to a safe place, so the army training ground would be ideal. Surrounded by many soldiers, Elhaeltôr was the one who would speak the gnome's name. This would be an ideal moment for an ambush, maybe the Eye of Many or something else, however, I had this planned since the first session and wasn't going to change it for convenience or because it would be "cool." When Elhaeltôr spoke the words, the book flew out of his hands onto the ground. His allies ready to fight anything that would come out. The book opened and smoke started to rise. They heard an elf cough but also another one. Smaller voice coughed. A gnome stood before the book. He was astonished to see himself in a different place. The cursed book trapped him in time, he thought he was reading something he wanted, but already forgot (since it was an enchantment) what it was. Suddenly, he was hugged by Edrathil, who was almost crying to see his friend alive.

 

[Havoc]

Talk, talk, talk! Another Chapter and our little group decided to visit the Cthulhu! Lot of talking, so I will just relay important stuff.

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Chapter IX

Session 71: Information Galore!

Our little group ate dinner when Solange and Balasar came down to greet them in the dining room of their embassy. They were caught up to what happened and discussed their next course of action. They needed information, so they waited for the gnome to appear. After a day of rest, he did. He had a lot to catch up. He was extremely grateful to the party for rescuing him. It was revealed that he was searching for a way to revert changes done to Hand of Midnight since he worked for her for decades. He is one of the main inventors of the dukedom's special tourist creation. She was pretty weak then, having only a small garden. Knowing how she grew to power, he fears that she is unstoppable. However, there is a way to sever her state by destroying her heart, which split into two. There is also her soul, but Tulipe said that it's more to save her from being the property of the Lord of Night, the archfey. The heart is a tricky one, since destroying the half will not lead to complete destruction and she can regenerate after a while. So in a short, relative, span of time, both parts must be destroyed. One part is in the Shadowy Reflection (Shadowfell) in the hands of Nus, Lady Darkness, which is known to Solange as Lord Sun's archenemy. That heart must be destroyed by a weapon, an artifact probably, created by the Fey, which surprise, surprise the group has - Rexgladio. The part in the mortal realm must be destroyed by a weapon created by the Shadow Masters, however, the gnome never researched for such a weapon, they would need to ask somebody who is an artifact researcher - they know one. Before the gnome departed, they convinced him to not do anything drastic and resurrect the Bone Coterie. Aredhel, the druid, still lives, as Edrathil Silver Blade, the bladesinger. If he needs allies, Gwendolyn, previous Adventurers' Guild Master, can help him. Also, if he needs a monk, one of the dwarves from Logemakam can help. He thanked for their help and said to call him (Sending or otherwise), if they need some help or when they are ready to go the Shadow Reflection.

Later, Raerlin, the Gold Dragon, came by to visit, asked by the group, since they needed answers. He revealed that he was already searching for an artifact for the group called the Guitar of Spectral Pipers. However, the last information he has is that the soul of the last owner is in the Astral Sea (Astral Plane). He will need to search for more information. When Finn asked if the bard they defeated long ago might be the same, it was revealed that the dragon knew about the resting place of the last owner of Rexgladio. He even said that if the group didn't find it in the first place and the group would still have such good in their hearts, he would guide them to it. In short, if the players didn't go straight to Rexgladio, later on, the item would be found by the group thanks to the gold dragon's help. He mentioned another weapon that was created in the place where Tauzar lies. When humans came to Tethys, the war with the Giants broke out and the humans used unknown magic and technology, destroyed a giants' city leaving a crater. In that crater, a pair of scimitars came to being also other creatures like Rakshasa, Djinni, and others. The Fairy-tale Land was created (a new plane, where Rakshasa, Djinni, and others live). However, the group wanted to know about a weapon from Shadow Masters. Using Legend Lore and the dragon's knowledge, they found out that they need a weapon called Humilipugio, The Beggar's Dagger. This weapon was created by the master of death itself, who is called the Silent One, the Enemy of the Living, Nahlot. The strongest of the Shadow Masters, who like the Prince of Endless Branches is virtually unkillable as long as intelligent beings exist on the mortal plane. The shortsword is a legendary item that shows up in history from time to time. Mostly in hands of people who are poor, destitute or seeking revenge. They are handed this weapon that they could become someone great and on the journey, the weapon gets progressively weaker. In the end, taking the owner's life. They think that the weapon is cursed and you can't lose it, no matter how you try. Even Balasar knows the stories of the sword that it was once locked in another dimension and it still disappeared, even after the owner died. The group found that the weapon is located on the mortal realm in a temple to... the Eye. Its location is in the jungle in the southwest, behind the biggest mountain range. A captain is also there, but the dragon doesn't know what could it mean. The Legend Lore give vague hints.

​

Having this information, our little wizard showed the group his map, gave to him by his apprentice - Syltas. It showed the places known in history to be temples to Eye of Many and one of it is in the jungle they want to visit. One more in the furthest jungle to the south. While two others' are in intriguing places - one where Solange's monastery is, while the other in the lands of our druid's. They discussed their next course of action. Deciding that the Gold Dragon will teleport them to Ssetpoli and from there they will find a way to the temple. The dragon explained to them the situation in the city. In short, show strength and if problems arise find one of the leaders and ask for a coin, that will make them untouchable on the streets. The group also asked about the thing that is in Sigurd. The dragon used Legend Lore again and this time the information was even vaguer. He told them that it's a completely new creature. Created by those far below. It's a sign of death and their coming. When they appear, they will take what was once theirs. The group connected it to the Abyss in Orth, which is the most obvious thing. However, this means that apart from the Wish spell there isn't a way to rescue Sigurd. They thanked the dragon and decided that this is something they need to as soon as possible. First, they will go to the Adventurers' Guild and hire some adventurers to finish some stuff they don't have time to do, while Baâ and Balasar would meet with the druids.

Michelangelo d'Argento
New Guild Master of the Adventure's Guild
Silver Coast Swashbuckler​

The group went to the guild and found out that it's packed with new faces. One of them greeted them when silence came over everybody seeing the heroes for the first time. He introduced himself as Michelangelo d'Argento a silver dragonborn from the Silver Coast. He is the new Guild Master and quite the crowd appeaser. The group also got information that their "rivals" from the north buy services from the guild, asking for help. It was revealed that the village of Greenleaf had an illithid problem for a long time and an old woman, a witch, was working for them. This was stopped thanks to them. Also, they found out that the Elementar's have an intelligent hydra with different colored heads. Alice and Michelangelo with the group went to one of the rooms to discuss business. After some debate, they decided to offer jobs for gnoll populace control (bring gnoll's right ear for reward), gnoll demonologist problem (and solution) and also the fallen celestial problem (and solution). While the gnoll stuff would cost about 6,000 gold pieces, the celestial one would cost 14,000. They decided on the amount while talking to the Guild Master since you need to pay enough but not too much to bring those that would risk their lives away.

Octavio
Solange's Spymaster
Member of the Eclipsed​

Mario asked Solange about his daughter, so the aasimar sent a note to his spy to come to meet with him. He is named Octavio and not only he is Solange's main spy (or spymaster's spymaster) but also he became one of the first to be indoctrinated to the Eclipsed. He told him about two things. First, the Great Empire of Freedom had their agents in the Castra Vetera's ruins. They are gone for a while, but they could have been there during the siege and some time after. Nobody knows their real goal. The second, was about Mario's daughter. She is well and still in the Gold Spring. She gathers information about her father and met many times with Om, who revealed to her everything.

Baâ's brothers and Pug were waiting for them, called by Luigi. They talked about what happened but there was little new stuff, that the group didn't know. The druids knowing about the temple was a shocker since it was the place that the white dragon appeared. It might mean something more sinister, so they will go to their elder brother, who is an archdruid, to see to it. Pug decided to stay behind and find acolytes for Baâ to train them as druids. Not having more information, they went to meet with the rest. There Baâ revealed that once the issue with the forest is done with, she will be leaving. At least that's what she is saying now. The group decided to visit the castle, rest up, gear up and teleport to Ssetpoli.

 

[Havoc]

Soon the group will achieve the 13th level, but for now, let's explore the never stopping tide of madness! Solange wasn't during the start, so he got "trapped" until the group won.

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Chapter IX

Session 72: Darkness Ahead

First, our little group decided to make some shopping. While that happened, Finn visited his brother, Lindal, who was helping with a construct construction in Zook's workshop. They bonded a little since Finn told him that he might not return. Lindal believed that he will return and together will go father and pry information about their family from him. They had a little laugh and Finn returned to the party. They met with Ahmed, the Tauzar merchant who works with Malifex, a magic item creators' guild. The group decided to buy his magical deck by offering him a feather from the Firebird, which he accepted. Inquiring about their next goal, he told them to watch out and that there is bound somebody from his guild in every major city in the south, so they will always find someone willing to sell or buy magical stuff. Also, Mario wanted to meet with Luigi at the castle, however, the boy was at that moment in Om's brewery, so he went there to talk to him. He saw that Luigi not only was talking with the dwarf but also with Wyne, the boy who trained him and despised Mario, and Gianetta, Mario's daughter that was hiding in the city. It looked like they were having fun, so he didn't interrupt them. He later talked to Luigi about his journey, not inquiring about that meeting. Hearing his father tell him that he loves him dearly and hopes that one day he will inherit all of this made the boy cry. The rest took care of their stuff and were ready to depart. The dragon, in the guise of the old man, came as asked and did the teleport. However, something went terribly wrong.

Atszoa
Leader of the Eye of Many Cult in Ssetpoli​

There was sudden blackness. A sharp pain. The whole group felt that the teleport worked but they were in a different place. Old walls, still wet and greenish. They stood in some ancient room. Surrounded by aggressive lizardfolk. They saw about 20 of them. At the back, their leader stood next to Solange and the old man. Their friends weren't moving, just like time for them stopped. The leader told them to not make sudden moves, however, Mario went for his weapon and combat started. More likely the player didn't listen and the confusion created a problem. It went pretty badly for the lizardmen. Scatter spell from Elhaeltôr made them teleport just next to the leader and the rest was a huge wave of AoE. They did get some damage, but when the leader gave up, he was the only one alive with just one lizardman with him.

During the interrogation, he explained to them that they are in Ssetpoli in ancient ruins beneath the city. He worships the Eye of Many, calling him the Star-Watcher. His "god" told him that there will be somebody coming to destroy them (and they did), so he must stop them by using this ancient place. The gold dragon later explained that this was ancient magic, so it was huge coincide that it worked. It was created long ago before Dwarves came to being by the Black Dragons. The whole Ssetpoli was built by Lizardmen who worshipped the Black Dragons, who lived in these parts. The priest told them his name is Atszoa. He became, like many of his followers, a worshipper of the Eye, because they were outcasts. They weren't killed just outcasted from the city and if they come back, they will be killed. Now, they didn't have anything, so even their temple under the city has nothing. However, he knows the way to the ancient temple that the group spoke of. The gold dragon decided to visit the city, so he bid them farewell.

Ssetpoli​

He guided them not having a choice really. They went through the sewers. One pipe had strong moving water and they needed to use it to get out from the city undetected. The group jumped in. There were some DnD shenanigans, where people rolled natural 1 or very roll. Many people got exhausted by this. However, the group was out. They walked next to the walls of the ancient city. On the way, Mario tried to persuade the lizardman that he worships an ancient evil. Atszoa did waver in his conviction. Being next to the wall, they overheard some of the guards. First off, the Great Empire of Freedom has some of their agents in the city. Second, they heard about a human that is the master of the arena. They call him Cuixtli, which means All Hearts His. There were no random encounters. They safely passed, without alerting any guards or making contacts with the locals. Even the great leader of the lizardfolk - Zatshox will never hear from them. However, Atszoa and his last follower can't return to the city and they have nothing there anymore. They will be killed, so they guided them as good as they could.

Giantslegacy Jungle​

The jungle is different here than in other parts of Tethys. The artificial jungle in the canyon is more akin to a living being than a jungle. While the Jungle of All Races is a bigger place, but more tamed than the Giantslegacy Jungle. Here there are more signs of ancients. Battles between Dragons and Giants. Black Dragons ruins. Humans that tried to colonize this place. The monstrous races fighting against each other since their conception. There are bound to be more dangerous creatures on the way. One of which the group almost stepped into. Baâ was successful in seeing that they are about to step into the lair of a snake-like being. There some bones nearby that showed signs of cracking by some huge beak. When described to Atszoa, he agreed that they must go a different route. Gricks were nearby. They passed safely.

During their travels, Atszoa spoke about the place they are going to. It belonged to the Kraken Brotherhood. Pirates. They have, from what he heard, about 50 ships under their leader - Calandor, which is said to be very dangerous. He doesn't know if he worships the Eye like Atszoa. He knows only that the temple is near their base, since the Lizardbay is nearby, which is the biggest bay nearby. Also, he knows that somehow the Kraken Brotherhood tamed the storms that are in the west prohibiting ships from the north to go to the south. They are able to journey north and pillage ports there. Nobody knows how that is possible. Before the group got close, Mario had a small one on one talk with Atszoa who wanted to get inside the temple, but Mario told him that he can't trust him. They would talk about it again when they get there. Which wasn't long, since Baâ heard a group nearby. Solange decided to scout ahead and take a look.

Calandor
Leader of the Kraken Brotherhood​

There were about 30 people around a place that looked like a temple to the Eye of Many. Ten or more of them looked like veterans, fighting types. While the rest looked more like serfs, just to handle the boxes and camp. Solange got near them and saw even some priests. Suddenly, he felt some hand on his shoulder. When he turned, he saw a slender figure with a golden kraken mask. Two frosty swords at his sides but not drawn. He asked him what he was doing here and what he wanted to achieve. The group was notified thanks to their shared telepathy spell. It didn't take long for Solange the say the wrong words. The captain was interested what was inside the temple, but when he was compared to a follower of Eye of Many, he needed to dispatch the Aasimar. The combat broke out. Solange was hit pretty badly by the pirates when their assassins popped out. Lighting and tentacles were conjured by their priests. The group rushed to the rescue. Solange was heavily wounded, while Mario almost fell (with 3 hp left). Calandor was swift with his movements and could conjure icy cold sea winds that shook the bones of his enemies. He could also use his mask to stun enemies. The group was winning, slowly. Suddenly Solange was at death's door, Calandor moved to kill him. Elhaeltôr was the only one who could stop him from killing the aasimar. He used Disintegrate and the group saw that black tentacles wrapped around the pirate just before he was about to be hit. When he got hit by the spell, it shined brightly, he screamed in agony and was turned to ash, his items also. The last part was strange since the spell didn't destroy magic items. Solange was able to retreat before he was killed. The group caught a priest and one of the pirates. The rest ran away.

They were at their goal at last. The doors to the temple started to open. They thought that it might be connected to what Calandor said while talking to Solange about the temple needing blood to open up, but who knows. They talked to the priest about the leader. Apparently Calandor is immortal and leads the Kraken Brotherhood since it's creation about 100 years ago. He was seen to die many times but never turned to ash. The priest didn't saw any tentacles that the group saw when the leader died. He also doesn't know why they are here. The temple was always locked, they didn't care until one-day Calandor decided to check it out. They later released them, since more pirates would come to them. The group also spoke to Atszoa, asking him about the temple. He said he recognizes the symbols and would want to enter the temple. However, Balasar wasn't going to allow him. He told him to decide now - reject Eye of Many now or else. He didn't answer, just turned his back. Balasar used that moment to bash his head open. The group, except for Solange, was in shock. Balasar spoke about choices, that everybody makes them. How they are fighting something that is dangerous to the whole world and they can't allow anybody to help this entity to gain any more power. Mario didn't like it one bit, nor Elhaeltôr or Baâ. Finn also tried to speak to Balasar, but Mario was first. Solange only nodded approvingly and watched as the other lizardman ran away. Mario used Revifiy to resurrect him, while Baâ healed his open skull. He woke up but wanted only to escape. He didn't speak. The group allowed him to go, but just when he was about to leave completely, Mario stopped him and tossed him a healing potion. Told him to think what he said to him. Atszoa spoke that for them Eye of Many is an enemy, something they need to fight, but for him and his followers, he was a savior. He saved them from destruction. He left after those words. The group discussed what to do next. Balasar used Contact Other Plane to ask some questions and now knew that Eye of Many is waiting for them. They entered the temple. The building looked ancient. Even more than Ssetpoli which was built before the Dwarves, hundred thousand years ago. However, the land around them looked like the temple was "new" in these parts. They discussed theories but nothing concrete came out of it. Elhaeltôr couldn't recognize the handiwork, no races which he knew could built the temple. They descended deeper and a big room was waiting for them.

 

[Havoc]

We venture into the temple of Eye of Many, also called Star-Watcher. It was just a dungeon, but it took us about 3 hours to get to the "end." Most of its battle, so little to write about.

---

Chapter IX

Session 73: He is Watching You

Our little group enters the temple. The stone ancient, too ancient to their liking. Strange writings on the walls, unnerving to look at. Balasar saw them many times, they bring madness. The group journeyed down, into a big room, almost 40 meters far, which meant their darkvision didn't help that much. Elhaeltôr used his arrows to cast Light on them and send them into the room. The strange architecture was even more unnerving like it wasn't made for normal humans. Sometimes they wondered why it was in odd angles. In the center was a pool of greenish, mushy water or some kind of fluid. They didn't see anything in there. They didn't try to dive in. There were two corridors they could take. They checked the right one and they found the one who is worshipped here. His eye looked down from stone, that looked more like a wall. A dead end? They didn't think so. However, there was no way to check it out.

Star Spawned Grue​

Before checking the other corridor, they went up, to higher ground where they saw more ponds. When they got to the next stairs, they were attacked. Suddenly from the water, swarms of creatures jumped out and attacked the group. Hunched. No lips, bloody mouths filled with sharp teeth. White eyes. Madness. The heroes defended themselves bravely, until another creature showed up, at the end of their vision. It was able to throw reality bending orbs of psychic energy. Once Finn got hit by it, it made his ears bleed and he almost fell to the ground dead. These creatures were dangerous. The group tried to take him down, but once he was hit, he changed placed with one of the mindless drones and that creature died.

Star Spawned Seer​

The group needed to chase him. Elhaeltôr used his powerful spells to deal as much damage as he could. When Solange got near the Seer, he disappeared again and another creature took his place. However, this one was even different than the rest. It had an additional pair of arms. All clawed. He tore apart Solange, who barely stood his ground. The group went after the creature and looked around. The seer was gone. Nowhere in the room, they were in. Only the corridors remained - the one they didn't explore and the one to return. Solange scouted and found one of the Manglers hiding in the corridor they wanted to check, so he used his radiant bolts to harm him. He ran away. The group waited. It was very quiet. The party didn't want to stay for long, Baâ looked too scared to act most of the time. They tried to check the giant wall with the eye. However, there were no mechanical or secret ways to open it. They tried the paints they had, but it didn't stick to the door and just flowed down like water. They needed to check the other corridor, they came for the sword. Using a formation they ventured forth. They even used the lantern, which revealed invisible creatures. There was nobody. They went further. Corridor forked to two identical rooms. Nobody around. They checked the first one. A shining, diseased-violet orb was on a pedestal in a round room. Nothing else. They checked the other one. Nothing. The identical orb. Elhaeltôr and Balasar checked the orbs, while the rest stood guard. Finn used his helmet, even when he was advised before not to try to read the scribblings on the walls, to cast Comprehend Languages and read some of the writings. He almost went insane and dropped his helmet. Words "Servants" and "Touch" were the only thing he could read.

Star Spawned Hulk
Also pictured is the Mangler (dunno who the middle one is)​

Balasar and Elhaeltôr came to the same conclusion. They needed to touch the orbs, at the same time. The party split. They both decided that they will touch them. When they did so, a vision of a closing eye showed up, while the rest heard stone moving. They went back to the big room and the blocked corridor was now opened. No signs of that wall with the eye. They went up the stairs and found another room with two ponds of that strange water. Another long corridor was to their left. They didn't get near the ponds and ventured forth. When they were halfway, the group heard something at the end. One big creature and one smaller, slimier. Solange heard the most important thing - water in the walls. This meant that the ponds were connected with each other. The group prepared for a fight and they got it. Suddenly, hulking red creatures ran towards the corridors. From one side and the other. They were in the middle and needed to stand their ground. The combat was long and mostly dragged on, since the hulks did jack shit, while the only damage was done by the Seers that shot their psychic orbs from behind. When four hulks were dead, the manglers and seers decided to jump ship and went to the ponds. When the group tried to chase after them, it was over. The creatures were gone in the water. They didn't stop to rest, just heal up and went further into the temple.

Humilipugio
Beggar's Dagger​

They found themselves in a big room that had two corridors from it. One would lead them "back", while the other would lead them down the temple. They checked the twin corridor and at the end, they found a wall with a "smiling" eye. Balasar concluded that there must be a hidden passage here, a shortcut they could have taken, but didn't check around. The group went back and tried their chances. At the end of the stairs, there was a small room with a statue. It was sitting, so a big 6 meters creature was barely 2-3 meters tall. It head full of eyes. Tentacles sprouted out from everything, but he did have a hand, which was stretched out to accept something. Elhaeltôr put the statuette he found on it. The "prison" opened and the eye was fully revealed. The big statue split perfectly in the middle and both parts moved to the sides. It revealed a pedestal that a sword of shadows was lying. It spoke to them - "Ah! At last! I was waiting for so long."

 

[Havoc]

Our little group got themselves in a pickle. Just after taking the sword, something bad happened.

---

Chapter IX

Session 74: He is Waiting

The sword spoke, the group reacted. Mainly talked using their Mind Link. However, they got information out of it, since he was willing to converse and spill some beans. Apparently, Humilipugio was created before even dragons came to Tethys, which is something nobody in the world would believe since the first history comes from dragons and their Mother of All Dragons. Apparently, the sword feels as someone who "gives chances" to those unfortunate. Those that are in need. He gives them "a new life." They now know that the more ambitious the person is, the quicker the sword will "eat" him/her since those with high goals burn brightest. This means everybody here could die quite quickly since their goal to kill Eye of Many might mean their death. Even someone who has impossible ambitions could die as fast. He didn't answer about those without those. Someone who achieved what he wanted and might be just neutral. Balasar even made a speech to the group, that they shouldn't sacrifice themselves, that he will take the blade since he has nowhere to return. It didn't sit well with the group. Finn even was willing to do it, since can't find anything to fill the void of his lost love. The group tried to convince the sword, that they will put him inside the Bag of Holding, until they decide, however, he didn't like that. Suggested that he will allow them to take him, instead of disappearing, if they just hold him. He doesn't trick people. He will give them the power they seek if they accept him. If nobody will come, then he will find someone. He, like he said, isn't selfish and sees that a lot of people need something like him. Humilipugio regarded Rexgladio, who was conveying to Mario hate all the time, as his younger brother, created more as the antithesis to him. Solange finally decided to take the sword, keep it at his side. They tried to question him some more. He was unwilling to answer questions about his former owner. Not even when was the last time he was outside. He couldn't explain how he got "caught" to this cage, however, he recognizes the being who did it. He knows about it, but not much. Eye of Many didn't exist for him until the time of Elves and Men. He isn't a historian but knows a lot of it, since he is eternal.

He also told them that he feels "lost" like he doesn't know where he is. A hint of what to come. Elhaeltôr with Balasar checked the surroundings and their investigation came to a terrifying conclusion. You couldn't damage the stone or other structures in the temple like it was "frozen in time." Chronomancy Elhaeltôr called it, the magic of time, a dangerous school of magic. The group decided to walk back to their camp. The temple was silent, unnerving. The bodies still laid where they were, nobody touched them. Even in the big hall, the dead were scattered. They didn't return for their corpses? It seemed like it. The group went towards the stairs to the outside, however, when they were close, Solange stopped them. It was nighttime. Stars were bright, no clouds. Not even trees. Suddenly, a bad omen - he didn't recognize the stars. Nor did the party, neither their party druid. It was a bad sign.

When they got closer and closer to the exit, it became more apparent. There were only stars outside the temple. Darkness fell on the building like there was no other light where they were beside their own. There was no land to stand on. Up, stars. Right and left, stars. Bottom, stars. The only thing that floated in the cosmos was a brick road, made of two slabs per step. There was some earth stuck to it like the road was ripped from the real world. The group couldn't comprehend where they were, the sword revealed that he knows instinctively on what plane he resides and he couldn't guess here. The group couldn't stay for long, they had to move. They couldn't stay in the temple, it was too risky and they were unwilling to rest for a long period of time, so they took only a short rest (a long rest required from them about 20 hours of doing "nothing" until the 24h restriction on long rest passes). About an hour went, they sat at the stairs. Baâ took some earth, just to be safe and check later. After that they went on the road, which seemed as stable as a normal road on the Tethys, there was no feeling of lack of gravity.

After a half hour of walking, the group went back for a second, since the only source of light were themselves, so the only way to see something far away was to look at the disappearing and appearing stars. The temple was still behind them. They went further. After another hour of walking, they saw something on the road. When they got close, it became apparent that there was some more earth, like an island, that was stuck to the road. There they saw an encampment, nobody at it. The tent was destroyed like the wind just blew it apart. The campfire was used hours ago. The group found tracks and a box, inside an used healer's kit, where it had stuff from the Northen Kingdoms region. The former showed that the person here was a woman, with gentle steps, that looked like she walked to the side, not towards the road, and disappeared (like there was more earth and she walked on it). Baâ almost fell or more like tried to follow the footsteps and the group stopped her before, she made the last one. She thought she could just change into an animal and fly up. However, there was no way to test it safely. Magic worked, but who knows. The group decided not to rest and moved onward. A bigger island appeared after two more hours of walking.

​

They came closer to check it. One was a desert area, with stone columns. The other was a snowy area with trees and strange white spheres. Their road ended into nothingness. Balasar recognized the columns, it seemed like that place was taken from his homeland - Longdeath Desert. Baâ recognized the snowy area and thought the green veins coming from the spheres looked like the corruption she set out to find out and destroy. When they got near the giant sphere, it moved to reveal to be an eyelid for Eye of Many. They heard the familiar voice. He greeted them as friends and his favorite servants. They argued since, for him, they came to him. Last time he needed to "fix an error" and there was no other way. He revealed that he wants to save the world and if that won't help, he wants to be the one who will see the planet shatter and the stars turn dull, to create a new world. They, of course, didn't believe his words. He spoke that he wants to save it by creating someone who will sacrifice himself for it. There were three cataclysms before. One when Mother of All Dragons "died" (not confirmed), one when All-Father died (confirmed) and when High King Actur died. A new cataclysm is coming and he tells them that the signs are there. Chaos will shatter this world and for that to be stopped, he needs to do some things. He saw it, he can see the future. He suggested that he might be the one who sent a vision to Solange, corrupted Baâ's homeland, stole Finn's instrument, sent Mario on a fool's errand or even sent his main servant - Balasar to help them. He didn't mention the elf for some reason. He revealed that Balasar came to him first. He wished for power and he gave it to him. He wants his servants to have free will, the ability to choose their destiny. None who serve him, serve him with fear. Before he could explain more, even answer some questions, Mario had enough and attacked him.

 

[Havoc]

A lot more revealed, but more questions left unanswered. End of the chapter. Our little heroes got level 13th.

---

Chapter IX

Session 75: The Truth Will Set You Free

The combat starts! Each time our little heroes get a turn, the Eye of Many speak to them and everybody heard those speeches. I didn't make a lot of stuff, just two things per player. To Balasar, he spoke about Balasar's pledge to him, that he came to him for power and Eye of Many promised much more, so he was going to give it to him like he promised. The second thing was about Asztoa, that lizard cleric dude he killed. He told him about the last vision he had in which he was warned about the heroes, that they will come to kill everybody but he can stop them. However, if that fails, he will be used and then cast aside, killed. To Solange he spoke about his visions, that they might be enLIGHTening. Yeah, he made some jokes. He also spoke about helping Solange taking the reins over his brotherhood or even going on a trip to the south "hunting ghosts", which was a reference to the notes he got from the Gold Dragon, which stated that the Lord Sun cult started in the furthest south. To Finn, he spoke some strange stuff. He called the halfling the Transparent Traveler, whatever that meant. That his blood tasted great and now he could see much more, that he could see his family and will be coming for them. Also, told him to sow chaos wherever he can like he always does. To Baâ he spoke about sowing discord among his friends, to break them apart but also spoke about the north, that he is doing his best to help her become Archdruid, maybe even taking her brother's place. To Mario he mentioned Asztoa, that he is just a murderer, nothing more. That Mario saved such a creature, who when given the choice of sacrificing himself or others - children or his fellow followers, he always chose the latter like the coward he was. The other was about Mario being just a simple murderer that hides behind the mask of honor, faking being a paladin. Adding "but I will always love you... my son" which for a second sounded different than his normal voice. Mario recognized it as his father. To Elhaeltôr he spoke that he has an EYE on his beloved sister but also talked about how Harthion thinks he is all innocent but how much of his memory can be false or not come at all, revealing the truth of his atrocities.

Those were the speeches. The combat itself was a tough one. Eye of Many spawned a lot of stunning powers, that made Solange miss out on 2 turns. Mario was always grappled and "swallowed" twice. Almost died there, but thanks to healing magic he stood. Balasar tried his best to reorganize the field and fight, even killing Bonesuckers, that they remember from the last time. Finn changed into a monkey (Giant Ape rather) but failed one of his 4 Constitution Saving Throws to keep up the polymorph, so he just wasted a spell for that. Elhaeltôr tried his best to deal some damage. He even had a good idea to change his magic to radiant damage, which was double against Eye of Many. He almost even did a giant damage combo (in the spoilers), that could obliterate every enemy. However, Eye of Many used Counterspell and that was that. The combat lasted about four turns. Party was spent, many were heavily damaged. Solange got his killing blow, incinerating most of Eye of Many. When he was dying, the whole world started to collapse. The road was already gone like it disappeared into nothingness. The land under them was cracking and falling also. They ran towards the other island, that was desert-like. They all succeeded (they were barely at the last movement). Then everything went dark.

Eye of Many
True Form​

The group felt their souls being torn out of their bodies. Their eyes scared jumped around. They flew up, very fast. Suddenly they stopped, their eyes opened by unknown force. It was all darkness, except for stars behind them. The light illuminated the being. Revealing a creature of unmeasurable size. It giant eye looked at them, just like the myriad of smaller ones and the tentacles. The Eye of Many showed his true form to them. Spoke with the voice of a god, into their minds, they couldn't resist it.

My Sowers of Chaos, do not you really understand how tiny you are in the grand plan?
I am the Star-Watcher. The Everlasting Observer! The Traveler In-Between! The Eye of Many! I bring knowledge of time and possibilities! I offer gifts, save souls and give new chances! But even I am merely a servant of the greater forces that your poor minds cannot comprehend.
They were, they are and they shall be. Not in the spaces we know, but between them, They walk serene and primal, undimensioned and to us unseen. You can not understand how pointless it is to fight with me!
But I am not a tyrant. I come to give you a chance. A new hope. A world full of free will, without the influence of gods and other beings. Finally, a world that everyone will feel free! The wonderful chaos of self-destruction granted by your own choice.
I am your salvation. Your hope. A gate to the world that can be. And you will help me in this, no matter what god or being protects you from my influence. Sooner or later, you will do what I want. Because I foresaw and foresee that. The future can only be what I saw! No other! I will not allow it!
Therefore, let me correct the mistake that came into my plan. Our contract must be kept!​

With those words, they came back to their bodies. Enemies showed up and the fight continued.

Eye of Many
Lesser Avatar​

This time his avatar was bigger but much quieter and calmer. With him, four more creatures spawned. These were tears in reality, where tentacles tried to skewer anybody near. They emanated dark energies. They even created magical Darkness or exploded in necrotic energies. This was going to be a tough fight. Finn fell to 0 HP in the first round. The druid changed to a fire elemental to keep at bay one of the Voidlings. Mario tried his best to survive. Elhaeltôr tried his best to stay alive and he almost died also, if not for his Protection from Evil and Good. Balasar saved Finn and Solange tried his best to fight one of the Voidlings. Two more just blasted them with Eldritch energy. Mario had to dispel magic the Darkness since he couldn't see and the enemy could do anything to him. Eye of Many created a lot of terrains that was full of reality bending stuff, that could stun everybody. The boss wasn't kidding about his previous words. During his first round, he took all Hero Points from the players, all of them. One of the players even had 5 Hero Points (those that give you the ability to add 1d6 to your d20 roll). The fight looked hopeless until the party saw the light.

"Blue" Deva​

Suddenly, not far from the island, stones floated and formed a ring, a gate. It lights up and four celestial beings came out. Devas. Shirtless but for strange reason they had blue clothing. Wielding maces, they came to the rescue. Eye of Many spoke up saying "No! The future can't be like this! I predicted it!" Thank god for that for the players that I rolled that they show up in this round because it was the moment where Elhaeltôr and Balasar fell. Which would mean another spiral of death would start. The Devas flew to the help. Three of them tried to heal the party, while the forth ran at Eye of Many dealing some nice damage. The fight went smoothly from then on. Eye of Many was defeated or at least his form before he could heal. He tried his best to fell Elhaeltôr or Mario but wasn't able to. This time it was our beloved druid. She threw herself at Eye of Many and burned him "alive." His form disappeared and the island started to break, it was starting to go dark. The Devas started to turn transparent, they spoke something to themselves in Celestial. The party couldn't use the Devas' gate since it also went away the next turn after they arrived. The group tried to save themselves, however, it was too late. Everything went dark. Balasar was first to wake up. He felt the cold on his body, stones. They were back in the temple, where they found Humilipugio. Everybody looked like crap. He started to wake up Baâ first, using a healing potion (which he didn't have to but didn't know). When she started to get up, she heard footsteps. When they started to wake Finn up, they saw who it was.

Iesha
Cleric of the Eye of Many​

A young woman. Pretty tall. In a white dress with flowery embroidery. Came down to them. She also wore high heels. Her face didn't reveal any emotion, so they didn't know if she was an enemy or ally. She only spoke that she looked for them, the Golden Shield. When the rest of the party woke up, they saw her on her knees, pledging herself to their cause. There was a lot of back and forth. She didn't reveal any emotion but answered all of their questions. Her name is Iesha and she is a cleric of the Eye of Many. She chose her destiny long ago and it was to serve the Golden Shield. She looked for them her whole life, which truly started many years ago. They didn't want her services but she spoke that it's her destiny and the only goal in life, to serve them. If they don't want her, it's like sentencing her to death, which she would accept as per their wishes. She offered to heal the party but they refused. In the end, they decided that fighting here is pointless. Let her come, for now, but have an eye on her. Balasar and Solange did just that.

Longdeath Desert​

She didn't speak the whole journey, only answered questions, if any. When the party got out, they weren't in the jungle anymore. Balasar recognized the place as his homeland - the Longdeath Desert. Everyway they looked desert dunes. The entrance to the temple was very well hidden. There was one place, an oasis nearby with tents galore. That was their goal. They talked to Iesha some more. Gaining knowledge that it's impossible to destroy the temples since they exist because her master exists. They move around. Before she got inside the temple, she was in the Northern Kingdoms.

Greseth Faamtenargakexud​

The party needed to rest. They went to the oasis. They saw a lot of dragonborn, mainly the blue ones. There were others like humans and half-elves. When they got near, just about dozen or so meters from the tents, a big group formed. Some of the dragonborn knelt before the heroes. They didn't know why. Suddenly a big blue dragonborn came out of the tent and recognized Balasar, his brother.

One of the players did some screenshots.

Spoiler

First Phase of combat. Finn changed into Great Ape.

Eye of Many shows up for reals.

Lol, syke, it's just phase two.

One lucky paladin, trying to get out of his grapple.

The Elven Tragedy. This would bet 21 Force Damage and 77 Radiant Damage. EoM was vulnerable to Radiant, so double, 154. He could have done 175 damage to the boss but got counterspelled.

 

[Havoc]

Balasar's player will be on temporary leave from the campaign. I hope he will return. Finn's player is retiring his character, at least for now and will come back later. Don't know if anybody more wants to change characters or rest. The most important thing in this session is that they have... 0 Hero Points at the start. This one has a lot of talking.

---

Chapter X

Session 76: The Ignored Prophecy

The group met with the dragonborn camp. Their leader, apparently Balasar's brother, tried to gain information out of them - how they got here? Before he could ask them another question, suddenly one of they younger blue dragonborn moved between him and the others. He knelt down, like the rest, however, this one raised his hands up and spoke "He is here! Thank the Colbat Tower!" This provoked the leader to grab him with one hand and roar into his face. He threw him back and again roared towards the whole camp. Those that were kneeling got quickly up and ran away. The heroes asked him what's going on and he told them that he will answer their questions later. Since they are going to stay for some time, he told them to come with him to the tent. There he revealed his name Greseth Faamtenargakexud (Thunderscale). He ordered his men to bring some food.

Funny thing. They talked with the dragonborn but not once asked about the incident earlier nor asked him about the Cobalt Tower. They got to know what happened to them and who Greseth is. His role was Royal Guard. One of the highest ranking dracons in the clan. Faamtenargakexud regard traditions and laws very highly. Their Patriarch couple of years ago met with the Great Emperor. Greseth saw him. Not taller than a human. Wore a dark plate armor, hiding all of his features. It sparked with jewels that adorned him, however, there were no symbols nor any heraldry on him. Greseth heard a lot of legends about the man and when he came to them, he believed every word. The army that stood outside the city was massive. "A black sea" he called it. Giants were seen among them. He asked the Patriarch to talk alone and they did. After the meeting, the Emperor left and the Patriarch commenced a purge in the city. Everybody who was a cleric was ordered to renounce their faith or die. Those very faithful also. After the purge, he ordered his people to leave Farah. Greseth disagreed for the first time. Nobody from the Royal Guard, Daaran, ever tries to confront the Patriarch. They serve him until his death. So, the Patriarch ordered him to stay behind. Greseth stayed and then the rebellion started. Another clan took over the city, while he ran with survivors. He can't go back since he will be killed. He also can go to Isfahan, since those who he leads now, not by his choice, will be killed. The party also got more information about the clan. First, they got very rich off the siege of Isfahan. The city was an ideal trading stop for the cities of the desert and mountains. Second, they have castes (Nobiounan). Greseth is highest - Daaran, the Royal. Second are Warriors, Arytissin, which is self-explanatory. Third are Nobles, Schakrin, which are mages, blacksmiths, merchants and others. The last are Menials, Tawurarin, who transport goods, miners, woodcutters etc. Those who are exiled (the pariah) or outside the clan structure aren't considered a part of the hierarchy. Mario pushed Greseth, asking him if he is an Exile since he isn't at his master side. Too much. He got angry and left his own tent, not wanting to be provoked into a fight. Mario explained to the rest he was "curious."

The group discussed their next course of action and what they now know. One thing Solange spoke was about the Celestials, Deva, that helped them. Apparently, they talked to themselves about what was going on. One didn't understand, while the other tried to tell him that something changed. The first asked again if they succeeded and the other answered again "only time will tell." Cryptic and it had to do with their future. Iesha was with them but soon left to take a bath. Solange later went to take some recipes from the local cook. The party got themselves a tent. They went to sleep as soon as possible. When they woke up, they wanted to leave this place. Solange was the only person that guarded his friends, while they slept. Iesha didn't come yet. However, somebody tried to get near their tent. Solange stopped him and had a talk. Apparently, it was the dragonborn who knelt and shouted about the Cobalt Tower. Solange wanted answers. The dracon believes that Balasar is their "messiah" called the Cobalt Dragon. That he came to save them. The prophecy talks about someone with wings, who was outcasted from them, who will return later to save them. He told Solange that their leader, of the Cobalt Tower, their cleric, is in Isfahan, waiting for the Cobalt Dragon. Solange tried to convince the young dragonborn that his messiah might not take his words in a good way. He nodded and went away.

Next Solange saw Iesha and spoke to her. He wanted some information before allowing her to sleep next to them. He revealed to her that he knows about her back and others might not like her or even despise her. He accepts her fate but doesn't want to talk about the past, since "it's not her anymore." He wanted some answers and started asking about Iesha and Eye of Many. Apparently, she is losing powers. The first time happened over a year ago, which would happen around the same time the party had their first fight with Eye of Many. The second time was when she entered the temple looking for the Golden Shield. Her most powerful spells are gone. She said that Eye of Many showed her a lot of possible futures. Some of them she would die, prematurely. There exists one, that she wants to achieve, however, she isn't in control of others, she doesn't want to be. Like she said before when others asked, Eye of Many dogma is about Free Will. If you take it away, it is the greatest sin of all. If she dies, she dies. If not, she wants to serve the Golden Shield. Solange asked if she considers changing her beliefs, that Eye of Many stops being her god. She agreed that it was one of the possibilities. They also talked about the celestials. She knows little more than the group. Her master serves higher powers. The gods themselves are "shackled" as said by Eye of Many. Also, that he has an enemy called the Hidden Lord, who is worshipped in Undertethys. She believes she said with the others, that her master wants to save the world and does everything to achieve it. He has power over time but not absolute. He isn't omnipresent, omniscient nor omnipotent. If he was angry about the Celestials then time changed his possibilities also. Like everybody does, when the choice comes. Suddenly other doors close. She was asked again if she killed somebody for her master, which she denied. The last question was about the other worshippers. Those in the temple, she knows of. She believes that they attacked the group because they wanted to attack Eye of Many, to kill him. They are outcasts like those Aberrations the group met. They don't have their home anymore. At least that's what she believes.

The group rest for over 12 hours. When they got up, Balasar wanted to go to Greseth and tell his goodbyes. The young dragonborn came again to meet with him. He spoke about Balasar being the Cobalt Dragon, asked over and over if it is the moment he will save them. Balasar didn't know what to think about the meeting. For him, he was somebody who spoke nonsense. They got information, however, just after Balasar left angry, telling that he isn't some messiah nor hero. Apparently, this prophecy was hidden from the whole clan. Greseth, after the fall of Farah, their home, he came to the outcasts, drunk, with a stone tablet. There the prophecy was written. The Cobalt Dragon Prophecy. However, the young dragonborn doesn't know the whole prophecy. He knows that death will come from the sky and the Cobalt Dragon will save those who are worthy. Those who will believe. The stone table is safe in Isfahan, with their cleric. Greseth was angry the next day, threw it away. He doesn't know why. Balasar without this knowledge went to Greseth, said his peace and left. The leader didn't stop him nor told him anything more. When Balasar was leaving, he was stopped. He saw blue dracons peeking outside their tents, it was middle of the night. One had many children, one of which stopped Balasar by holding his clothes. The little girl asked him "will you save us, Cobalt Dragon?" He tried to explain that he isn't what she thinks he is. That he isn't even a hero.* She told him that it doesn't matter. To her, he is the Cobalt Dragon and she hugged him. He hugged her back, not feeling the touch of his race for years. He used Fly on her just after saying "go, fly to your mother," which she did. More dragonborn came out of the tents, seeing what was done. He tried to leave, but a group of 20 showed up behind him. He stopped. Said he wasn't what they think he is. They didn't "hear" his words. They believed him as the Cobalt Dragon. The prophecy said so. When he got to the next tent, it grew to 30 dragonborns, with the one that spoke with him earlier joining the group. He didn't want to leave them like this so he left them with all of his healing potions (even the expensive ones). He even used his healing special feature (celestial warlock) to heal their wounds. There were none, but at least it gave them some comfort. He left the group and returned to the party.

Everybody discussed what to do with Iesha. Nobody trusted her. In the end, they decided to allow her to follow, enter the teleport circle. Just after Balasar took the first step and disappeared, the rest of the party saw an over 40 group of dragonborns and even other races and dracon colors standing. They waved their hands. Seeing them goodbye or rather their messiah. They would be waiting for him. The teleport worked. They were back. Not much changed. However, the group now knew that the moment they went inside the temple, a month has passed there. Their two-week journey expanded to a month and a half.

*A side note. The whole party after the fight with Eye of Many feel that something is missing. That one thing is unexplainable by them. They feel like they had it since the moment they came to the canyon and before, something that they felt they had. Now it's gone. Mechanically their Hero Points are gone.

 

[Havoc]

Lots of talking. Balasar's player is taking a break. Baâ's player was tired, so the party decided stuff without her. This was also the last session with Finn (the character) until the player decides to return to him. Also, lots of reveals and some Kingdom Building (later, if Finn won't return, the party will need a new Grand Diplomat).

---

Chapter X

Session 77: The Last Of His Line

Everybody went to take care of their stuff. Mario talked to his son. He was wary of what is going on, he was scared that the neighboring kingdoms would just take the canyon. He spoke with Mario's cousin - Beniamino, so Mario went to visit him in their new villa. Cousin spoke about going back to Oasis since he needed to speak with the rest of the family about the future in the canyon. They decided that when Mario will be going to Oasis, he will take him with him. Cousin revealed that he got word from his home - the young king needed royal guard, so their uncle created a group of wyvern riders. Both Beniamino and Luigi spoke that Mario changed like he didn't find any happiness in life. This made Mario visit his teacher Benedetto Albergotti, who was still in the kingdom. He was at the river, goofing off to make children laugh. The old man later spoke with Mario, who asked about his faith and future. Benedetto told him to visit an inn and talk to those inside. Their goal is to bring light to those that need it. Those who visit taverns many times had their own problems and the paladin should make them forget, to have them live with a smile. He couldn't tell him what to do but he might go to the Grand Master. He thanked him and went to rest. Finn spoke with his brother about leaving. He convinced him to go with him when the time comes. Solange in that time spent his time talking with Solaire, the cleric of Lord Sun. The cleric tried to comfort his friend but couldn't make decisions for him. Even after hearing about the world ending stuff, he was still more interested in those below him, that needed him. Later, Solange spoke with Octavio, his spymaster. Mario's daughter is alright. She talks with Luigi and might found her place. Octavio spoke about their northern neighbors. Apparently, Elementi Revivo is in full swing of expansion. However, they are more interested in taking over only the northern parts. They stopped expanding to the south and are expanding east and west.

Later, the group had a meeting, which was a surprise birthday party for Finn. Everybody had presents for the halfling. Gwendolyn wrote some rhymes. Lord Magmos indestructible strings for his instrument. Ellyjoybell music reacting paints. Myria gave him a golden pendant. Hannah had a song made for Finn. Quennar some tea leaves. Boghat an orc's head. The dwarves had a keg of beer. Solange didn't prepare anything. Elhaeltôr gave him a magical item he made himself. Mario told him that in the future he will have a street named after him, even a statue. Balasar wasn't there, nor did Baâ, but they did have as players presents prepared. They partied and Finn told his friends he wants to leave for a while, talk to his family. Spend some time with them. After the party, Elhaeltôr revealed that Quicksteps are "legendary" since the Legend Lore spell worked when asked about their name. Apparently, their ancestor "sacrificed the most precious thing." Elhaeltôr also revealed other information he had gained thanks to the spell.

Life Spark - "Gift from the Gods is different than the Gift of the Spark, She brought it with her and gave to many, Her son, as well as his killer, wore the largest piece, However, the grains have spread all over the world"
Sedyryn - "The one who was imprisoned, He is seeking revenge, he promises, The forest will burn, Others will too, And with this world"

Kellen Fiddlefen
Gentleman​

Later, they had a meeting with the council. The dwarves didn't want to stay with their hands doing nothing and wanted the group to do something that Vathez, the runesmith could work on - the throne. So, the group paid for the stuff they had their hands on. They had information about shrine desecration, people are wary about Lord Sun worship overshadowing their own. They had a letter from Balasar - the Citadel of the Sun was being built and hippogriffs were returning, since the wyverns were gone. Also, Lord Magmos spoke about overtaxing their people, since the days off were cut. Later, they had visitors. First was the University representative, the tiefling. They needed to decide if they wanted to work with them or with their competitors - Malifex, which members were Ahmed, the aasimar shopkeep and many others. The group decided after voting to go with the University and for that the Teleportation Circle in the castle now connected to the Guest Quarters of the University complex. Next was a Gentleman, a non-guild citizen of Quadropolis, who worked as mediator, negotiator, and diplomat for the city. He came to Golden Spring to form a closer relationship - to build an embassy. The group agreed to it. Later they had more visitors from old friends. First was Faelyn Eagle's Song, who spoke about Estel'Anoron being ready to join them, however, they would need to take care of the gnoll problem like with the Golden West undead and demon problem. The second was the Vladimirovich pair, who spoke similar stuff. That the holy site needs to be in more capable hands are were willing to join their kingdom, if they were ready. Next was their explorers, who found three interesting things. First, were ruins of the Contegoaurum family - a summer home of the Duke. It was full of undead, so it was something the group needed to take care of if they wanted whatever was inside. Second, was that they found Black Rose, the soldiers, and agents of the Great Empire of Freedom, that had a hidden base near the river. Third, was that the explorers found ruins of an old city, that was a trade city built between three neighboring dukedoms - Contego, Capisalta, and Ilyrium. It's rife with old artifacts. The group would later need to decide what to do with all of that. Also, the Fallen Celestial problem was taken care of.

Eagle's Wing
From left to right
Lubush - Half-Orc - Ranger, Shistsak Crownaxe - Dwarf - Paladin, Ahvain - Half-Elf - Rogue, Lord Gerard Eagleson - Human - Sorcerer, Vildang Crownaxe - Dwarf - Cleric, Hartmann - Human - Wizard​

A group of adventurers took their offer. They needed the cash since they had their own little fiefdom in the north, a castle more like. However, the taxes were getting too high in the Easthaven Kingdom, so they returned to adventuring. Hearing about the offer they came to the canyon. They work for Lord Gerard Eagleson, who is the rightful owner of their castle. The Fallen Celestial wasn't that much of a problem to them. They didn't speak to him much but knew that he was gathering undead and demons. They found an entrance to Undertethys in the far north-west mountains and there an undersea. They didn't venture more since they weren't paid for it. The group discussed paying them for the Beholder's eye they needed, however, the players would need to decide that later.

After all that was done, the party debated what to do with Humilipugio. The discussion was heated and nobody could decide. In the end, they tried to ask Sigurd if he was interested. They teleported to Orth and went to his home, where he drank some tea. They revealed the situation to him, some parts he knew from his friends in Orth. He stood up and went to take Humilipugio, telling them that it's alright. When the sword touched Sigurd's hand, it shouted. It was angry, didn't want to be in his hands. Spoke about something being impossible and even that Sigurd had strong blood. The group inquired about that and he spoke that it doesn't matter. They insisted and he revealed the best way possible. He placed Humilipugio on the table and asked for Rexgladio. When the sword was in his hands, it shined like it never before. Sigurd revealed that his real name is Sigurd Courvelux, the last living descendant of the Legati line and Tiberion Courvelux. Legati were legendary generals of the first humans, who commanded the battlefield with their sheer will. That was over 3000 years ago. The line dwindled and died out. Sigurd told the group to never reveal this outside their cliche since his "friends" might send people here to take care of things. The warrior after being asked revealed that he had a choice, to be the last surviving member of his line and be closed to the outside world or leave. He chose the latter and went to Orth, wanting to do some good deeds. Sigurd agreed to help them, Humilipugio was angry but couldn't reject the warrior. He would later talk to Gwendolyn and reveal the truth about the parasite and the future. The party prepared for their journey to another plane.

---

Kingdom Building

Time - Round 10-12, Season Autumn, Year 313

Kingdom Building Full Stats - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FdgMRzQZO6Qd9xBBT0YqN68V3LkRQliva9ZFslM-G8o/edit?usp=sharing

Roles:

Spoiler

Ruler
Mario de Capodimonte

Consort
None

Councilor
Balasar Faamtenargakexud

General
Gwendolyn

Grand Diplomat
Finnean Quickstep

Heir
Luigi de Capodimonte

High Priest
Quennar Wood Step

Magister
Elhaeltôr

Marshal
Baâ

Royal Enforcer
Boghat Reborn

Spymaster
Solange Sunseer

Treasurer
Lord Magmos

Viceroy
None

Warden
Thalal Giantsbane
​

Kingdom Map

Spoiler

Undertethys Map

Spoiler

Settlements

Spoiler

Golden Spring Settlement
Buildings:
- Castle (Golden Spring)
- Houses x1
- Mansion (Orth Embassy)
- Mansion (Quadropolis Embassy)
- Brewery (Om's)
- Smithy (Odon's Armorsmith)
- Smithy (Zutshosh's Weaponsmith)
- Foundry
- Barracks
- Exotic Artisan (Maria Jeweler)
- Caster's Tower (Elhaeltôr's Laboratory)
- Market (building...)
- Noble Villa (Capodimonte Family Villa)
- Warehouse

Citadel of the Sun Settlement
Buildings:
- Castle (Citadel of the Sun)

Armies

Spoiler

- Regular Army - 100 men, 2nd level Fighters, Equipped with Magic Weapon and Magic Armor
- Red Mercenaries (Orth) - 100 men, 1st level Fighters, Normal Equipment
- Gantholorank (Goliath Mercenaries) - 20 men, 4th level Barbarians, Normal Equipment
- Brightaxe Company (free, only for defense) - 200 men, 4th level Fighters, Equipped with Magic Weapon and Magic Armor

 

[Havoc]

Finn is saying his goodbyes and the player switches to another character. This one starts at level 6 and will gain a level every session to catch up to the party. The group also gained enough exp to have level 14, but they need to take a long rest to do so. Being in the Shadow Reflection (Shadowfell) isn't a good idea.

---

Chapter X

Session 78: Light in Darkness

Our little group was saying their goodbyes to Finn and his brother. Elhaeltôr was using Scry to get the location known to him since there was a chance of failure. Baâ used this moment to gift the present she "owed" for the birthday party - a case for his mandolin made out of dragon leather and scales. Both parties said their goodbyes - for now since they all knew Finn will come back sooner or later or the party will go to him. Elhaeltôr teleported himself and the two of them, however, it went kinda badly. Teleported them 400km to the south of their goal, in the mountain range. Near one of the Thunderhammer cities. They decided to hide with magic. Later, he tried again and it went smoothly, teleported the pair next to the halfling capital - Vineshade. When the elf returned, the party bought some stuff (goggle of the night, some healing potions and resist necrotic potions). Even bought a metal rod attuned to the Shadow Reflection plane, so Plane Shift would work. It's not a problem for the group since they have access to the University. However, they needed to choose a place to teleport to. I advised not to choose the Nus, Lady of Darkness, headquarters as their destination, so they decided to teleport near her lands. Baâ teleported them and they were in a completely new place. Side note, the party, Baâ specifically, draw a card from their new magical deck called Deck of Destiny. It was a Puppeteer. She felt something that wanted to control her actions but nothing more. Not knowing what it could do, they decided to travel the same day to the plane of shadows. Interesting, it never came up during the session what it does, maybe next time.

Shadow Reflection​

Everything was dark at first, then they saw in greys. Dulled colors and light. There were no shadows here, no visible source of light. They were now in Plains of Silence. Standing on grey grass that turned into dust when you stepped on it. Their vision was blocked by black clouds, about 20 meters from them at every side. Using a guidance spell, they went forward. The clouds moved like the group was in some sphere. The group even checked their tracks and saw that they disappeared after they made more than 20 meters of movement. They kept together and moved. After about an hour of travel, they saw their first problem. Thankfully Baâ saw it soon enough. A giant leg, muscular but thin, black, barely visible. She stopped the group and they stopped moving. Tried to be unseen. The creature stopped and peered down. It was a Nightwalker, a very dangerous Shade. Fortunate for the group, it didn't saw them (it had Passive Perception of 9 but you get a Disadvantage in Dim Light for Wisdom (Perception) so that's -5. Mario rolled 6 on his Stealth, barely succeeded). The group moved after dozen or so minutes of the creature passing by.

When the clouds moved aside, they revealed a new place. Called the Great Fall Mountains. The group didn't care for the name and traveled through them since the spell was still working, telling them where to go. Their destination was Palace of Darkness, Nus' home. While traveling along the mountainside, they saw an old keep. It stood alone, two old, wooden bridges connecting to it as the only way to access it. They could use spells and fly or climb down. One would use their spell resources and the other a different, but still an important resource. The group decided to take their chances. The bridge was unsteady but the group worked together and passed this small test/check. After that, they were at the keep. It seems like it was an old, northern keep that was used as a border keep. On one side, buildings that were once used for something like barracks, on the other nothing. They were on the "kingdom" side.

Scarlett​

Spoiler

Scarlett

Name: Scarlett
Race: Halfling (Lightfoot)
Background: Urchin
Alignment: True Neutral
Classes: Rogue (Scout) 6
Starting Stats:
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
8 19 14 16 11 8
Current Stats (without magical items):
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
8 20 14 16 11 8
Chosen Skills: Acrobatics, Athletics, Insight, Investigation, Nature, Perception, Sleight of Hand, Stealth, Survival
Tools: Disguise Kit, Thieves' Tools, Tinkerer's Tools
Languages: Common, Halfling
Feats: Squat Nimbleness (Increase Dexterity)
Interesting Tidbits:
- She's from a wandering circus. Unknown parents left her there.
- She grew up without knowing her past or real name. She does have strange eye(s) - red color.
- Apparently, she has nightmares that pushed her to find the truth.
- She also wears a necklace of the Eclipsed, the Lord Sun's agents. The only thing she has after her parents.​

Suddenly, a crack of thunder was heard. It echoed in the entire valley. Red light, almost blinding if not for being in the plane of shadow, appeared in one of the buildings. The group heard a female voice, somebody fell. Solange went to check what was going on. He saw a halfling woman. When she got up, Solange could see that she had an Eclipsed amulet. He sneaked behind her, dagger to her throat and questioned her. She explained that she doesn't know where she is and the amulet was a gift, passed down to her. He let her go and took her to the rest of the group, where she explained her situation. She is an adventurer, saw a gnoll contract in Orth and decided to cut some ears for nice profits. However, when she was cutting ears from dead gnolls, the camp she was in was attacked by another tribe of gnolls. She tried to run from the skirmish but suddenly found herself before another gnoll demonologist. He tried to use some kind of spell on her but instead of death, she was teleported to the Shadow Reflection. The group couldn't take her back, since they had no time and taking a long rest would impede their travel. Scarlett, her show name, decided to join up for the time being. Before they could travel, the rest saw something come, like a squad of soldiers. They ducked into the buildings just in time. Ghostly apparitions showed up and stopped at the nonexistent gates. Looked around. Spoke to each other, however, the group didn't hear any sound. They decided to wait for the ghost soldiers to disappear or go away. They did the former. Mario used his divine sense to feel if that was the case, which clearly wasn't. It was a trick, so Elhaeltôr used his fireball to finish the job. He rolled very well and the apparitions died instantly.

Later during their travels, they had a small test to take care of. They needed to pass over a gorge. Using spells wouldn't be a wise choice. There was a long stone bridge not far from them. However, when they got close to it, it didn't get close to them. No matter how much they traveled, the bridge was still there. When only one of them moved, the rest saw the bridge move as well. They tried a simple trick to check for the bridge - they closed their eyes, moved two dozen meters and opened. The bridge suddenly moved back. It moved from the nearest creature if anybody was looking at it. The group all closed their eyes, moved together, got to the bridge and passed the small test. There was some wind trying to impede their movements or to open their eyes but nothing strayed them from their path. When they got to the other side of the mountains, they were in Nus' center lands. Surrounded by unpenetrable darkness, which was the Hidden Hideousness, was the Forest of Lady of Darkness, which was around her palace - Palace of Darkness. The group decided to descend the mountains but on the path found something interesting - tracks. Somebody made camp here and even engraved something in the mountain rock. It was the symbol of Lord Sun. When the group got down, their darkvision was the only reason they saw the valley for what it was. Hideous terrain. Morphed. Ragged. Spiked. When they traveled at least one hour, the group saw light sources. Sudden sparks that shouldn't be seen at this distance but were. The group ran towards it.

Bodak​

When the group got close, the light wasn't strong enough to show the specifics, but they recognized paladins of Lord Sun fighting some Wraiths. They ran to help them but were stopped by creatures that barely looked human, deathly skin with twisted visages - bodaks. One was bigger, over 3 meters tall, a Greater Bodak. Something they wanted to hunt down before and now they got a chance. It wasn't a big fight but it dealt some damage to the party. The bodaks had an aura that dealt necrotic damage to them. Also, stunning sometimes. They used some of their greater spells to kick some arse. It was over in a matter of two to three rounds. When the party defeated them, they had a moment of respite that they used to heal up and extract the essence of the Greater Bodak for later.

Soldair Sunseer​

The group ran closer to the paladins. However, more wraith stood in their way. Also, a bigger one, a masked wraith stood before the leader of the group, who had a sword made of light. Solange recognized him - it was his father. The group used their ranged spells like Sunbeam or Steel Wind Strike. The latter was a crit at the enemy boss and he was vulnerable to radiant damage, which the elf turned the spell damage into. Suddenly damaging him for 150 radiant damage. That was 75% of his hit points. Soldair took care of the rest with one big Divine Smite. Suddenly a bad situation when better than expected. I predicted that Soldair would be the last one standing there. However, that wasn't the case. The group fought bravely against incoming wraiths. Two of the paladins fell but were Revivify by Mario. In short, nobody died and the paladins were in better shape than I thought they will be. However, they are in no shape to continue any fight. The group met with their leader and that was the session.

 

[Havoc]

Baâ wasn't this session. Our party achieved the 14th level and our Scarlett gained level 9th. Elhaeltôr came late, so we waited for him to cast the mansion spell.

---

Chapter X

Session 79: No Deal but Mansions

The paladins could finally stand on their own. Their leader spoke up to Solange. Apparently, he was his father - Soldair Sunseer. The group talked about their goals in the plane and what's going on at home. Soldair told the group about his wife, Solange's mom, who would kill him if she knew that her son is in the dark plane "alone." She collects newspapers, where people write about the Golden Shield and Solange, cutting pieces and placing them on the walls in her room. Newspapers are something new in the Silver Coast, mainly in Quadropolis. Everything seemed fine at home. Asked about more political stuff. Soldair didn't recognize Eclipsed symbol that Scarlett had but he knew about them, something that isn't spoken about in the monastery. The paladins came to the plane using a doorway in the monstery, which is linked to a hidden temple in the mountains. The group now knew about a safe exit. Their mission was to destroy a faceless wraith, which they thought would be the thing they killed with the help of the adventurers. Now, spent and tired, they want to return. The group didn't press the paladins to help them further. They also saw that the paladins lost their colors, everybody was grey, unlike the adventurers. Soldair explained that it happens in time, the more you stay in the Shadow Reflection. He also told them that it was very dangerous for weak minds - they could go insane or become part of the plane.

The groups said their goodbyes, pushed invitations to their homes (or new homes). Our adventurers ventured forth to the unknown. Many hours went by. The landscape was very hideous. The group now knew that resting with a campfire or any light source can be trouble. The paladins used this information to hide their camps inside crevices and hide their campfire by walls of stones. The light source could be seen far, further than it would be possible in the real world. The group also knew that speaking about Nus or any other Shadow Master could bring their attention instantly, so whenever they spoke about the master of the land around them, they only said "Lady of Darkness." During their travel, they saw many strange things. Horrific buildings, that once created a small village. These buildings were very tall, windows becoming two meters high and the whole building was leaning like it was watching over the people walking under it. All of those buildings were in ruins. The group decided not to search the area, just walk past it. These buildings messed up with their perception. Since they only could rely on darkvision, the boundary of their vision created visages of huge faces. If they went towards them, they saw that it was the buildings. Not wanting to spend any more time here, they made haste and left. More hours went by, their bodies wanting to rest. Elhaeltôr used this moment to cast his new spell. A magical door appeared and explained how it works.

Elhaeltôr's Magnificient Mansion​

Inside the mansion was a beautiful creation of architecture. It wasn't in your face elven, it was more welcoming to other races. Those who know how the Magnificient Mansion work will know exactly what it was. However, I was allowing for more flexible play. People could ask for remodeling, even not being the master of the house. Everybody could suddenly have their rooms in the manner they wanted. Even a small chapel could be made. The group rested inside and talked about their next move. Gathering in a garden outside the mansion, where they could relax, they conversed about their situation. The goal, for now, would be to go to the Lady of Darkness, met with her and try to persuade her. Anything could go wrong but they didn't have a choice. The party also found a painting inside the mansion. It looked like nobody started on it, even when it was already hanged over the staircase. However, they did find a lock of hair that was painted in. It was like the painting would paint itself in time. After resting, the group went outside and continued with their travels.

Nothing changed on the plane. The doorway was hidden from sight, so it was quite safe. Being inside the mansion, the party was safe from the powers of the Shadow Reflection. I even had a table of 100 effects that you could get by being them enough time or failing a wisdom saving throw. Like hearing heartbeats of every living creature nearby. Some freaky shit. Also, our druid in the last session took out a card. Its effect is now useless. It had a small percentage of attacking an ally when you tried to attack an enemy - redirecting it. Nonetheless, the group ventured towards the palace. Another day of travel spent. When the darkness disappeared, they were on the other side of the valley. They saw the mountains and the sea of darkness between them. Before the group was something more horrifying. You know what is vantablack? Yeah. Now image the whole forest of trees of that color. For the characters, it looked like a black spot, not a forest. They would really need to try to not be hit by any branch or worse. The land was the only thing that didn't have that color. They discussed their next course of action but suddenly they saw movement. Mario tried to speak to Lady of Darkness, wanting to talk to her. Something else answered.

Nabassu​

A creature showed up, moving from a branch to branch. Stopped a dozen or so meters, standing on one of the trees. Bat-like, black skin, and leathery wings. It didn't introduce himself and spoke to the group with telepathy. He offered his guidance through the forest, taking them to the Lady of Darkness for a boon. They discussed the deal. Nothing would come of it. He wasn't willing to be convinced otherwise. Trying to pry information why the group is here, they told him about the heard and he revealed that he knows where it is. He was willing to guide them there, if they will find a mortal for him, that skipped on his deal. In the end, they declined by attacking him. Suddenly, a similar creature with other Shadow Demons jumped the group, ready to strike. Elhaeltôr used a spell that created an impenetrable barrier around the first Nabassu, later recognizing him as a demon, not native to the plane they were on. The other creatures were killed, except for one Shadow Demon. The one surviving Nabassu told the group he will guide them to the heart.

 

[Havoc]

Campaign map (starting) made in Inkarnate

 

[Havoc]

Baâ wasn't this session, so she got NPC'ed. The group continues their travel in the plane.

---

Chapter X

Session 80: One Half Down

Having the demon inside the cage, the group rests for a while, since Elhaeltôr wants to cast a spell to bind it to his will. During this rest, Solange and Scarlett feel the nature of the plane touch them. Solange starts to feel something on his legs. Many bugs and worms started to crawl onto him. Even when he went to the other side of their little encampment, the little shits wanted to crawl onto him. He killed them and saw for a moment their halfling friend. Scarlett looked like an undead. Just for a brief moment. The plane was doing tricks to their mind or at least that's what they thought. Solange attracted worms and bugs, while Scarlett could be mistaken for undead, in essence, ignored during a fight with the undead. When the Forcecage ended, Elhaeltôr cast Planar Binding but it failed. The demon didn't fly away far and still said he will guide them to the heart.

During their travels, the demon asked about why they are here, what do they want from the heart and why they think they will succeed. Most of those questions were shot down by explaining what the group went through before coming here. Eye of Many, different plane of existence, the whole shebang. With a natural 20 on his Insight check, the demon understood that these were no simple adventurers. He was also asked about his own goals here but was unwilling to answer anything specific. They only knew he didn't care about what the group spoke of and he was here only to hunt for souls. Suddenly, between the darker than night trees, the group saw a green light. When they got near, this light was due to some strange magic to surrounded nearby trees, going from one to another. Creating some kind of magical boundary. This green, pale almost sickish light was the only color they saw for days. The demon explained the heart is that way. Told the group that Nus, Lady of Darkness will defend her prize. Scarlett immediately saw that the demon said her name on purpose and the group attacked him when he tried to fly away. He did get away, it wasn't that hard, especially when the group wasn't really trying to stop him. Solange did throw his radiant spear, after messing up jumping onto one of those trees for height but the damage wasn't enough to do anything. The group saw that he did injure himself by accidentally stepping on a thorn. This left a black spot on his body, even for an aasimar. The party drank their potions, got ready and moved towards their goal. The "heart" was a huge black jewel that floated above ground. Little red light sparked from it, like blood flowing through veins. From time to time, it "sweat" out some green mucus, that formed a pond below it. This wasn't water but some kind of poison. A very literal interpretation of a "you have only venom in your heart." When the group tried to get near, a giant shadow appeared before them.

Whispered One and Nightwing​

Two creatures. One was a giant bat that didn't make any sound when it flapped its wings. It was made from pure darkness and its eyes glowed red. A Nightwing, a terrifying creature. It wasn't alone. A big humanoid stepped from it, hovering above the ground. It was made from rags and bandages, nothing inside them. Its arms were as long as his height, ended with dark claws for hands. His form was very thin. Long arms, long legs. Head had still some features but nothing behind the rags. The group discussed what to do, then it spoke, but they only heard whispers around them. He told them to leave. They weren't going to, they wanted to destroy the heart. After a few minutes of talking, it gave them a deal - he will allow the heart to be destroyed, but the sword, Rexgladio, must stay behind, he wants it in return. The group couldn't accept this. Elhaeltôr tried to make a juke but faking going back. The Whispered One saw through that and went to attack the group. The combat was hard. The group was lucky with their rolls so were their enemies. Elhaeltôr used his Fabricate spell to create a bridge to the heart, so Mario wouldn't need to enter the "water". Solange and Scarlett tried to deal as much as damage as they could. While our Druid NPC tried her best to sunbeam and heal everybody. When Mario got near the heart, he was able to hit it. Carving piece by piece. Apparently, only the blade was able to harm it, the powers the paladin had done nothing. They were able to defeat the Whispered One, just when things got hairy for them. He was able to bring madness inside the heads of his enemies by hitting them with his bandages. Taking Wisdom every time it hit. When he fell, more enemies just came to the fray. About ten Wraiths appeared to help in the fight. However, thanks to strategic movements, Mario's luck with the rolls and healing, they were able to defeat most of the newcomers and almost destroy the heart. Solange fell and almost died there. Mario had the last say with the Nightwing and the heart. Dealing a big critical against the bat and destroying finally the heart. When they won, their instantly Plane Shifted back. Being home, they planned their next move. Scarlett was given her own room until she decides what to do next.

A screenshot by the players.

Spoiler

The elf still has life, it was bugged.

 

[Havoc]

Baâ will not be able to play for this or the next session and since the Hand of Midnight is "hers" quest, then I've decided to take care of stuff that I would do during downtime or the other players wanted to take care of.

---

Chapter X

Session 81: Little Political Problems

Our little group did some stuff before going to the forest. First, they wanted to take care of the Black Rose. Apparently, they had a base of operations inside a cave, a couple of days from their city. They didn't see any roguish people, just armored fighters, which would be strange for a covert operation that it should take. After discussing, the group decided to block the secret entrance and go inside using the front one. There they found traps set up against intruders and met with two members of the Black Rose. These were clad in dark armor, with a black rose on a white background. One of them had his helmet off, while the second was so fully armored that they didn't see any feature of his face. They were on the guard, holding weapons. The group wanted to know what and who, so they talked to them, trying to gain some information. In the end, Mario argued about meeting with their superior, which he only agreed, if only Mario will come. In was apparent, that these people were pretty fanatical to their Great Emperor, so they wouldn't budge and would gladly die for him. Mario agreed to go alone and met with the rest. They built a small base inside the cave, stonework was great. Inside there were about 10 people he saw. Most of them were fully armored, no face seen. The officer escorted Mario and he saw two people. One was a dragonborn, who was wearing dark robes with Black Rose symbols. A mage of some sort. The third guy was their leader with apparent high ranking symbols on him. The group knew little of Black Rose or the Great Empire of Freedom. Most of it would be propaganda and this would be the first time they met with a member of the empire. There was some back and forth. More philosophical. Their leader explained that even if the empire is far away, the Great Emperor wants to join the whole world under his rule and take out the false gods. He will do it, sooner or later. He also revealed that they looked for some artifact in Castra Vetera but were ordered back, since they couldn't find it. There was some dispute about religion and the group heard the tales again. The Great Emperor doesn't want bloodshed. He comes and requests people to renounce their religion. He tries to convince the leaders, almost always it worked. If that doesn't, then he pacifies the city with his soldiers. Most of the time, the cities surrendered to the new law or the leaders did the butchering of paladins and clerics. The captain told Mario that the same will happen to the canyon. He even told him that under the Great Emperor the world will flourish, like the All-Capital (long ago was the place of rulership of ancient beings like All-Father). He invited Mario to visit it but he would have a hard time since most of his friends are fanatical in their worship. They knew about the party a lot of stuff. However, if they renounced their religion, they would be greeted with open arms. Mario announced that they better pack their bags and GTFO unless they want to come in conflict when the group will extend their borders to this place. Mario returned safely to the rest and they left. They would later have an eye on the place.

Fat Boar
From left to right
Dayereth Whispering Wind - High Elf - Ranger, Adol Silversigil - Dwarf - Fighter, Claudius - Human - Fighter, Harriet Goodbarrel - Halfling - Rogue, Nija - Tiefling - Sorcerer​

Elhaeltôr wanted to check the elven ruins in the forest, apparently, they were cleaned up by an adventuring party. He had a Gandalf moment of being this mysterious person, who really hired the group. The group really took care of stuff and killed about 30-40 gnolls outside the elven mansion. Compared to the previous group, these were inexperienced adventurers, hotheaded and making mistakes. Elhaeltôr was able to convince them to talk to him, instead of making it harder. They introduced themselves as Fat Boar, a new adventuring group that came to the canyon. They didn't believe Elhaeltôr as being part of Golden Shield since they never met them and barely heard about them. The adventurers were convinced with loot (two magical items) to show Elhaeltôr around and tell him what they found. He gave them Rapier of the Illusionist and Bow of First Ranger since the group never really used these items. They explained what they found and fought. Adventurers seeing the quest, saw that this place has a big gathering of gnolls but not big enough to make it hard for them, so they decided to fight here. Found out after being caught sneaking past the camp, they fought them killing most of them and ran after those that escaped inside. Good that they did, since the gnolls were trying to summon demons. They fought against gnolls and werewolves, the latter changed into elves when defeated. However, they failed to stop the ritual and a demon came forth - a big gnoll with thrice-whip. They fought him and the demonologist and won. After that, they ransacked the place. There wasn't enough to steal, the gnolls did it themselves long ago. The demon summoning circle was destroyed and there was a meeting place with an elven circle but was defected, literally, by the gnolls. This place belonged to Oak Blosom, the elven house that were defenders of the forest. The last owner was Galan Oak Blosom. There were stone carved reliefs of others, who Elhaeltôr recognized after more studying later. Folwin the First Defender and founder that lived 4000 years ago. Ilyana an elf that wanted to help the humans in their fight against All-Father about 3000 years ago. Lathlaeril who fought with Tiberion Courvelux against the green dragon over 1000 years ago. The last one Galan, lost his life as the party knows, helping elves teleport from the falling kingdom. He thanked the group and invited them to the castle. They accepted the invitation, so he teleported them straight to the throne room where the rest of the group was, taking care of other matters. In time, the group would accept the Golden Shield as their new employers. Even when the Nija, tielfling, and Harriet, halfling, wanted to attack Elhaeltôr and steal from him and also Nija wanted to attack Elhaeltôr after the teleport but stopped only by grasping his clothes and lifting him up.

Later, Octavio came to the group telling them about Morqueto. Apparently, when listening to rumors in the No Bottom Inn in Orth, he heard something about disappearances in Morqueto. Officially, they left the town. However, they were merchants and craftsmen of some renown that came to the city and lived there for at least some time. Morqueto is ruled by a council of guildmasters, craftsmen. Octavio thinks its just some small conspiracy by the ruling class, nothing else, but it might be a cult or something. He was sent there to check on it and the adventuring group Fat Boar was sent with him. He would later bring information or even a resolution since Morqueto is near Elementi Revivio, their neighboring kingdom. Mario also hired the other adventuring party - Eagle's Wing, to check Contegoaurum Summer Villa and bring anything they found to him. After that, the party discussed meeting with the golden dragon and even going to the fort in the east that is under the Order of the Crismon Griffon.

 

[Havoc]

Baâ wasn't able to play this session. Maybe the next session we will go after Hand of Midnight.

---

Chapter X

Session 82: Never Forget

Our little king greeted petitioners to his throne room. Apparently, tensions are getting high due to mixed races settlements, high taxes and lower holidays. The farmers say that they feel unsafe due to orcs that wander about and start fights. Orcs say that once before they would just take alcohol they wanted, now they need to pay for it or exchange. They don't have their own place, so there's that. Also, the kobolds are a thieving bunch and everybody is unhappy about them. During the talks, the group heard the farmers speak about the Crushing taxes. Mario promised that the taxes (next turn on Kingdom Building) will be lowered and that they need not worry, they will take care of ruffians. Boghat was given a lot of local alcohol and our elf Fabricated more spirits out of potatoes. This would satisfy the orcs for some time. Kobolds were given some shinies to keep them at bay and were intimidated by Lord Magmos in his dragon form. The issues were resolved, for now. After this, they got information about Morqueto. Apparently, a cult formed there and calls itself Cult of the Kiss. The council in Morqueto are members or for some reason lets the cult operate in their town. The group decided not to pursue but gain more information, so they sent a reply to Octavio and the adventurers to continue spying.

The group later teleported to Rearlin or Palarandusk, The Invisible Defender, the Golden Dragon. Scarlett needed answers to her "mother" and the medallion she had. She couldn't believe that the old man was a dragon but never really demanded confirmation. During these talks, the group could observe the surrounding land. Not much changed. Demons and undead still roamed around. Scarlett didn't get a lot of answers, more questions. First off, the medallion was old, very old. More than 300 years old, which meant that it could have been given hereditary or it could have been excavated archeologically. Second, it was clearly a design from the far south, where the other part of Eclipsed operated. She got more information about the organization from the dragon. Third, the dragon was able to guess the lineage of a person with just a sniff. There were only two known halflings in the northern part of Eclipsed and she isn't their descendant. He offered her that he could teleport her to the south if she wanted but it's very dangerous there. Solange might someday travel there searching for answers. The dragon opposed her views that her mother could be a simple thief. He thought she was a nice gal, to which she asked how he knows - because he felt that she already helped those behind her somehow and might even have saved their lives. Which was true of course, she saved Solange's life. He told that that knowledge might come someday, the truth will reveal itself in time. She needs to wait for it. She thanked him. The dragon next told the group that he found the soul of the musician from the artifact instrument. It's on the Astral Sea. The group, however, wasn't so keen on searching for it, since Finnean went home. Talking among themselves, they decided that the dragon might search for something for Solange.

The party decided then to check out their neighbours to the east - the Order of the Crimson Griffon. They first asked if they can come by with a letter and got a confirmation. There they saw that one of the Contegoaurum "ruins" was rebuilt. Actually, very long ago, since the army needed a place to stay and they couldn't in the Nations' Camp, which was for a long time Actur Kingdom's Camp, up to the moment the Alliance was created. The party could finally see the differences between the two cultures. Women had fewer rights. Knights were the high nobility. The next in line were squires. Only knights could wield swords and barely any squire had a horse. There were of course merchants and wealthy people but much less than you could see in other kingdoms. The Order of Crimson Griffon was like any other in Kingdom of the Vale. There huge parts of lands were given to fledgling knightly orders to fight against Drows. They quickly became powerhouses but still needed to kneel before their king. Their main goal is still defending the kingdom and the fight against the Drow. They were greeted by knights of high ranking. Their horses had armor and additional symbols, while the knights themselves had more illustrious equipment. The group counted a couple of hundred people in the camp, which was mainly that most of them were at the Golden City. About one thousand strong was the force of Kingdom of the Vale. Nothing to scoff at. The keep was one of the best defensible places around. Not only they rebuilt it, but they also expanded it. Additional gatehouses and a moat.

Nikola Milojević
Sergeant of Kingdom of the Vale Army​

Inside they meet not only with their former "friend" - Oliver Krajinović but also the one who accepted their visit, the Sergeant Nikola Milojević. While Oliver was very talkative, the knight wasn't. Compared to the other knights, he wore more practical stuff. Everybody was very religious to the Trinity, so everybody wore some kind of amulet to them, even himself. That would be the only thing that you could call jewelry on him. Party was greeted with some food. Think Eastern European - goulash, sausages etc. Oliver joked that the party must have come to accept his first offer to kneel before Kingdom of the Vale. He extended his offer about the Drow, since they wanted them to be destroyed. They discussed their goals in the canyon. Oliver over and over said that he believes the group to be heroes, however, they have their goals and his kingdom has him, they don't overlap. The group explained their position about a safe travel on the river, that the army doesn't need to worry. After some debate and discussion, Oliver agreed to pay for customs, if the party will keep the river safe and not stop their ships. Also, accepted the offer about warehouses in Castra Vetera, when they will rebuild it. However, they needed to offer the same to their neighbors. It wouldn't be fair for them to pay and not their "friends." Also, Oliver insisted on fighting the drow. Even if they feel they aren't an enemy now, they will soon become one. It just takes time but might be harder to fight back, when they gain more ground. Oliver didn't ask about their full army against them, he knows about the group's abilities and asked them only as adventurers. If they find, during their travels, leaders of the Drow and bring them to him, they will find friends. They parted on good terms and the group left for the neighbors.

Nations' Camp​

The Nations' Camp was a huge place, full of tents. While Crimson Griffon had more buildings, the Nations' Camp was made mostly of tents. Why? Because of the Alliance. The forces here didn't stay for long and changed over and over. Sometimes they had a huge force, sometimes a smaller one. Most of the people here were from Actur Kingdom, while the rest came from other parts of the northern kingdoms. The buildings were used mainly for administrative staff and security, like a jail. Adventurers were here and the Silent Order also. The group wanted to meet with the leader of the army here. Called General Aristofane Scordato. He leads both armies. The one from the Alliance and the Actur Kingdom's. They were led to one big tent, which wasn't their main one but more like a planning tent.

Aristofane Scordato
General of Northen Alliance Army
General of Actur Kingdom Army​

There the officers hid the maps they had when the group entered. Aristofane didn't care as much. He was an old fellow, that looked even more uncaring than Nikola. They saw Gordiano Cappelletti, the other spy that the group once met when wanting to build a kingdom. The group didn't have really a moment to explain fully what they wanted. The general wanted it to be brief. Knowing that the group wanted payment for safety. He told them that they will get what he would give his men that guarded the ships. If he can halve the number of guards, then the group will get their payment and nothing more. The group agreed. The other thing - warehouses, was shot down. He didn't care. The group nodded, thanked and left. The details would be debated later. When they left the camp, they saw the green dragon. He left the Golden City and flew to... Golden Spring Castle. The group needed to teleport themselves, which they did.

They had some time, about half an hour to prepare. They rang the bell. Ordered soldiers to stand on the walls. People went to hiding. Even Luigi was ordered to hide. There was a lot of missing people in the castle - like Quennar, Baa, Balasar, Gwendolyn, Sigurd, and Boghat. Which meant only the dwarves and Magmos were ready to meet with Sedyryn the Green Fury. The group notified Palarandusk about the meeting and hoped he would come. The meeting took place on the balcony. The great dragon made a circle around their city and stopped next to the balcony. He was enormous. Colossal even. Almost twice the size of Lord Magmos or Frirdayn, the red dragon that the group killed. Sedyryn was something else. Nothing the group could fight. He greeted the group. Asking if they remember his riddle. "Everybody dies," said Mario. The dragon laughed, seeing that they did remember. He hoped that Rexgladio, the weapon that killed his father is put to good use. He even made a comment about Prince of Endless Branches that he is a thief and a scoundrel. When the dragon landed on the balcony or more like on the side of the castle because if he did land on the balcony, he would crush them. Mario was immune to fear. Everybody else failed their rolls. Solange could use his monk powers to remove the condition. When he was so close, the group felt the sweet aroma of flowers. However, they knew that if they were closer, they would feel the true poison in the scent. The group asked why he came to them. "Just so you remember... who is the true ruler of these lands." Also, he did a little blackmail, smiling at the town behind him, saying "You sometimes aren't here." After that, he flew away. He didn't attack them nor did anything else. Flew back to Golden City. Raerlin came out of the shadows and thanked that it didn't turn into a fight since the group would have died here. Nothing would be gained. The group found that he did speak ill of Prince of Endless Branches, might have been something between them. Maybe he is a Fey Dragon? Which Palarandusk laughed at, saying that's impossible, Sedyryn is a green dragon. He is just very ancient and powerful. He looks how he wants. The only strange thing is that he surrounds himself with undeath.

The group later took care of Castra Vetera. They brought clerics from Estel'Anoron, Logemakam, and Orth to help in the endeavor. Not only used their own army but also the dwarves helped in this. Paying a lot of money for help, even adventurers came to fight against the undead. The fights would take a couple of days but the main fight was against the biggest threats. Devils were gone, so only undead were a problem. Also, we skipped the undead jester thing, since Finnean was "retired" and I created that for him, not for Scarlett. Mario and Luigi fought with their army company. Mario wanted his son by his side during the fights. They had problems with the rolling undead. Yes. Giant balls of the undead. Zombies and skeletons joined together to form a ball and rolled at the company. When they got near or trampled over somebody, they grappled the enemy and pulled inside to rip him apart. Thanks to good ideas, they were able to destroy their forms with acid and fire. With that, the fights went better. Solange and Scarlett sneaked behind enemy lines and took care of undead mages. Scarlett was hit with lighting bolt but survived. Everybody did their part. Elhaeltôr used his Lore Master power to get Divine Word. He stood on the highest point in the city. Used Thaumaturgy to increase his voice and goggles to have a better sight of the combat. Like a column of light upon the cathedral of Trinity, he was able to destroy a lot of undead, giving the army a lot of needed relief. They had thousands upon thousands of undead to fight. Not a slightly less that number.

Baron Castra​

The fight with Baron Castra was nonexistent. When the group has not only a dragon, two giant armies, allies of clerics, monks and soldiers but also high levels, there is no need to make a combat for me. I could make some stuff up so it would be a real combat but it wasn't worth it. In the end, Baron Castra used his spells like Dominate Person but none of it worked and was beheaded by Mario. The lord of undead was defeated and only mop-up of the rest would need to commence. Ideal for the party to take care of Hand of Midnight. The group now could control Castra Vetera. Which meant they could put some money into repairs or flatten the land. Repairs would cost them hundreds of thousand gold. However, they could rebuild the Winter Palace, Cathedral of Trinity, Temple of Lord Sun, the theatre and the port. It would take time but it's doable. For now, the group would rest on it since Kingdom Building would come much later.

 

[Havoc]

Our group got together and finally went after Hand of Midnight. The fight was long and hard fought. Balasar should rejoin our group next session or after that. Also, the group gained level 15th. We talked about them gaining levels very fast and not staying (getting used to their new powers) for long enough, so after this, I will keep track of EXP but I will tell them when they will level.

---

Chapter X

Session 83: Decapitated Hand

The party prepared for the fight. Knowing that Hand of Midnight controlled elements (fire, cold, etc) and could do Sunburts (radiant damage), the group bought themselves a couple of resistance potions. Also, this was the moment that the wizard prepared one of his strongest spells - Simulacrum, a copy of him. After an hour of discussion, the plan was created. They would fly over to the city's ruins, to the main district that was taken over, using Lord Magmos as their vehicle of transportation. The dragon would then use his magma breath to open a passage through the thick canopy. The group would cast Fly and used Dust of Disappearance to be invisible for a moment to fly inside and be undetected for a moment. This plan worked as intended. Allowed them to bypass not one but two encounters I've had planned. One would be if they moved through the forest, the second would be on the way if they couldn't find the place. Flying in the central grove straight to what they thought was the place of the palace, the group saw that the central district was really gone. No signs of architecture, ruins, nothing. Only dirt, grass, trees and bushes. Also, creatures that dwelled here. When the invisibility puffed, the group was attacked by archers. The Fly spell fell and now they needed to move on foot. Using Locate Object, they succeed in finding the whereabouts of the other part of the heart. Simulacrum cast Invisibility on himself to be undetected for a long time.

Vine Lord​

This did not work quite well. They did find their way towards the palace, now only another grove. However, they were stopped by a big wall of rocks, bones, and plants. Hand of Midnight used this moment to show up telling them that they will not succeed. She didn't waste time on some speeches and attacked them. She did have an old friend for them and the undead-plant dinosaur appeared, he was a part of the wall. They needed to destroy it to pass quickly. It was a hard fight since the dino frightened most of the party and they couldn't move near. At the same time, HoM blasted them from a high ground with her deadly archers. Mario was almost eaten alive, he was dealt the most damage. The druid tried her best to heal as much as she could. Scarlett and Solange tried to take care of the archers and HoM. While Elhaeltôr and his clone cast spells. His other half was being dealt some damage, Area of Effect, that would later impact his livelihood. Sigurd was the man of the hour. Not only he dealt a large amount of damage to HoM (he was an 11th level Fighter that specialized in a greatsword but also his sword did fire damage, so that was double against enemies here) but also saved Mario from being eaten. The group took care of things in about three turns and ran forwards.

They were getting close to the central grove, where the Locate Object pointed. Suddenly giant trees moved to block their passage and HoM showed up with more strange pupils. These Vine Lords from what the druid saw created the Treants, so maybe after their destruction, the passage would be freed. Again, the party had a lot of luck. Except for Elhaeltôr's clone. One sunburst later, he failed his roll and got destroyed. He only had half of the wizard's HP and the spell was enough. The group fought bravely. The druid had to heal them a lot since half them were below half of HP. Sigurd didn't stop with being over the top damage dealer (each hit did at least 30 damage, 40 if vulnerable to fire and he did 3 per turn). When the passage was open, the group moved. The Vine Lord defeated, the party drank their resistance potions and healing potions, healed up as much as they could and ran towards their goal.

Heart of Hand of Midnight​

Here it was, the rest of Hand of Midnight. Her other half of the heart. Suspended due to vines and branches thanks to the tall trees. It was beating with a red glow, creating some kind of glowing green liquid. Strangely, a lot less than what the party saw in the Shadow Reflection. Here it would all end. It was either HoM or the party since their way out was only with Elhaeltôr's Teleport or the Plane Shift. The grove locked them inside with HoM, archers, Vine Lord, and two Treants. Combat was hectic and HoM didn't pull any punches. She even tried to Feeblemind Elhaeltôr but he succeeded on his saving throw. Otherwise almost all her dangerous spells (Hold Person, Flesh to Stone, Fire Storm etc.) was stopped by Elhaeltôr's Counterspell. Solange tried his best to take out Vine Lords and the archers. Scarlett did the same and almost died when one of the archers deal near her max HP, thanks to her Uncanny Dodge she survived. Mario tried his best to tank the enemies, not allowing them passage or a beat on Sigurd. Baâ did her best healing everybody since there was no need for additional damage dealer at this moment. She did wonder about changing to something to stop creatures coming to Sigurd but reflected on more heal. However, one Blight spell from her really did a number on a Vine Lord that was later destroyed thanks to the others dealing ranged damage. Elhaeltôr did his best to deal damage, with his wind strike, fireballs, and counterspells. This saved the asses of many people. Sigurd took his time to deal only damage unto the heart using Humilipugio. Maybe he wanted to use his own healing potion but our druid did him a solid. One by one, he hacked away at the heart. Slices of the plant fell to the ground and almost instantly turned into withered or rotten pieces. Soon HoM was without any means to defend herself.

The party stood triumphant. All bloody and barely standing, used almost all of their arcane might. Elhaeltôr used one of his last spell slots to cast Disintegrate to let her rest. With this last act, Hand of Midnight was no more. Turned into ash before them. Both of her hearts destroyed. They looked at the spot where the heart stood and saw a "ghost" of the woman. She was indeed beautiful once. Long blonde braided hair. However, her nature showed. Once a fashionable and expensive dress was now rotten to the core like her skin. Her face showed only anger. Before she could disappear, something moved quickly in the forest and stopped behind the ghost. A small arm stretched to touch her and a bright light blinded the group for a moment. There a small creature stood, holding something tiny hand. Simon the Satyr appeared. A conversation ensued. He thanked the group for their job. Told them that Tulipe took care of his part and might be home already. He did note that somebody pressured his friends to come, so they stopped Tulipe from doing anything reckless like sacrificing himself. Simon told the group that indeed should be rewarded and flicked whatever he had in his hand towards Baâ. She grasped it. A ring. A gift. Elhaeltôr revealed that Simon's real "name" is Traveller and he isn't a simple guide in the Evergreen. He asked if the Fey are preparing the group for something, however, Simon didn't know the answer to that question. "Who knows?" he told them. The satyr bid his farewells, telling them that it's only the beginning and there is a lot of more things to do. After he left, Sigurd congratulated the group and later gave Mario his healing potion, which was a Potion of Supreme Healing (the ones worth tens of thousands).

 

[Havoc]

Everybody is back during this session. End of a chapter. The players still didn't get their Hero Points back.

---

Chapter X

Session 84: A Place Out of Time

The gang stayed in the forest for a moment. Observing the surroundings. There was nobody coming for them. At last, the jungle was quiet. Mario used this moment to say a prayer to his goddess, Valena. To everybody's surprise, he got an answer. The trees above them parted to allow sunlight to get in and a giant flock of colorful birds flew in and settled on branches. They were watching them. A voice came. Godly but very far. Elhaeltôr didn't want to hear anything of it, so he departed, moving just an earshot from the group. Valena spoke to Mario telling him that she is happy with what he did and his progress. She told everyone that more challenges await them, even stronger than what was now. As a reward, Mario was selected to be one of her's Undying Protectors (power in the Paladin Oath of Ancients at level 15th). After that, the voice was gone. Lord Magmos came down, seeing there's an entrance and the party got ready to leave. Solange and Scarlett wanted to investigate further into the forest. They did find out that the palace was still here, just buried underground. Mario took this moment to speak to Elhaeltôr why he left and the elf spoke that the Trinity are hypocrites, that they cursed those that didn't deserve it and their actions brought only suffering to thousands. Mario spoke that he isn't sure about the power he was given, which angered Lord Magmos. He argued that Mario is acting like a coward when not long ago, he was one of the bravest men. The dragon told him that it was Mario's actions that brought light to him, another way to live, and with that, he found a new home, right here. He doesn't need to go to a faraway place just to hear some old guy speak some experience, he can just look around, he has people that can help him in his decision. Mario still wasn't unsure and Lord Magmos wasn't going to continue the discussion.

Later, our little gang returned to the castle to prepare. Their next step? Archmage Vannozzo's tower, they want to return there. There was some stuff to do, especially talking to Balasar about everything. During this time, we caught up with what was done those two sessions before. Balasar met with Scarlett finally. Solange proposed her to work as her agent in the Eclipsed. Sigurd talked to Baâ, where she learned that Sigurd is in constant mental battle with the sword, Humilipugio. Our party prepared to leave but before that Baâ wanted to try one of the cards from the Deck of Destiny. She drew Darklord. Suddenly a death knight appeared and wanted to kill her, however, she wasn't alone and the group with ease dispatched the creature. Elhaeltôr took the deck, vowing to not allow anybody takes the cards anymore.

The group teleported straight to the tower. There was only darkness here. The party checked the room with the teleportation circle to see that there were creatures here at least a week or so. Not wanting to waste time, they moved out of the room. They didn't check the room where they fought the phoenix nor they checked the prisons where the demons were once kept, and moved straight to the stairs to the upper floors. Not wanting to go room by room. The party found out that this place was ransacked by the drow. The riddle that blocked passage was turned off. They found a hall where a big combat occurred and there were some old pieces of drow armor. Remnants of ballistae and some strange armor that might once belong to constructs. The guardians defended some kind of pedestal, now empty. Another riddle and trap were removed by the drow, with the prize gone long ago. In the next rooms, they found vases from something might have come out since they also found parts of some bugs. There was some kind of well also here but it was emptied by the drow. They really stole everything. Another room had some riddle with elements, which was also completed and the door opened. They checked the next rooms. There were more riddles with Evocation and elements. Everything of worth was stolen.

The next floor wasn't so different. The group found on this, fourth floor, some kind of teleportation circles, many of them. There were signs that the drow numbered them, trying to find out how to traverse the teleportations. However, the riddle was already completed. The group passed by archways in walls, that must have been part of some kind of Illusion magic. Now everything was dispelled and they could safely pass through. They didn't explore this floor and went onto the next one. There were a lot of secrets and riddles here, however, because the players retreated and didn't really put this place on a short hold nor did their best to keep the place locked, the drows had over two months to take care of this place. The party on the fifth floor saw that there were two doors here. They checked the nearest. Scarlett saw that this was trapped. The door had a has a trap set to it, which she safely disarmed. In this room, from what they gathered, once golems stood. Constructs ready to use or prototypes. Now it was empty. Only places for them to stand. They did find one medium sized golem that stood in one of the smaller rooms, but it had no magic on it. There was one thing in this room that took the most time for them. A door they couldn't open.

This door felt like something held it on the other side. The strongest people on the group tried their best to pull the door to no avail. Detect Magic didn't show anything. The door wasn't magical. Elhaeltôr recognized that the door itself isn't magical but there might be a magical effect on the door from the other side. Baâ used her Fire Elemental form to try to get inside by getting under the door. When she finally was fully on the other side, there was nothing. There was no light anymore from her Wild Shape form. They had no telepathy nor there was no answer nor sound. Something was wrong. Solange used his Light on a coin and flicked it under the door. The coin got to the other side. The light vanished and they hear no more sound as if it disappeared just after getting to the other side. Elhaeltôr used a metal wire. However, when he got even a little of the wire to the other side of the door, he couldn't pull the wire anymore, like something was holding it on the other side. Without any more options, Balasar drank their Potion of Frost Giant's Strength. Having over 20 Strength, he just pulled (without rolls) the door. The party had really shitty rolls for strength to pull the door. After it was removed, the party saw what was on the other side. The room was all in good light, however, none of it came from it. A wizard, young one, tried to jump to the door but he was stopped in motion. Like time stopped for him. Yes. The room behind the door had stopped time. Not entering the room, they saw mages getting killed by some bronze constructs. Stopped in time as they died and ran away. There was no sight of their druid friend. Balasar really destroyed the door. The part of it that was in the time stopped place, stayed by the rest was ripped out. Mario tried the coin trick again. When he threw it, it disappeared. The party couldn't wait. Their friend was inside. They ran inside one by one.

Chronomancers​

Baâ and Balasar had to go, so they weren't during the fight, so other people controlled their characters. Baâ was unconscious. Three creatures were aggressive. There was no sight of mages nor the drow. The fight quickly became apparent to be a riddle. The creatures controlled time. Their "boss" could rewind time and stop time. Solange went after her, did a lot of damage and suddenly with a flick of a finger, he returned to his "starting point" and all the damage he did was undone. The combat wasn't that hard since they were 15th level. If they fought at level 11th or 12th then it would be more deadly, especially when you account that the party could have been spent. Timeless Chronomancer (the boss creature) could also Time Stop, get Two Actions and even have two spells with Concentration. She was a very powerful being and the others were also. She couldn't do it all the time but enough to make problems for the group. They had to use all their strength to take care of her. Mario even did a giant 94 damage round with a 50 heal on Baâ to save her, however, with a flick the boss undid all his work. She was also able to show paradoxes to people, but the group always succeeded. The other Chronomancers had spells but also the ability to age and decay enemies. They tried it on Mario, which didn't work! To their surprise. Since Mario not long ago got a gift from his goddess that only she can make him older. It also became apparent that they need to take care of the boss' minions. When she was brought down for the first time, one of the other Chronomancers turned to ash and disappeared. She returned to full "life" and back into her "starting point" like death never happened. After dispatching the other Chronomancer, the group focused on the boss. She tried to do some stuff with Time Stop and Maze but in the end, she was defeated. It isn't a problem for me to give players an encounter that they have little problems, because it was due to their choices (where they level up first etc.). If the area wasn't ransacked by drow, they would have their strength depleted and this fight would be more deadly.

One screenshot of the fight by one of the players.

Spoiler

 

[Havoc]

Another session. This was a bit of a slog due to a puzzle the players had to deal with.

---

Chapter XI

Session 85: Consequences of Inaction

The group was trapped inside the time room. The way back was pitch black. Later Scarlett found out that whatever touched the blackness, it was pulled inside and disintegrate. There was also a door but it didn't budge the whole time they were here. The only thing left was a huge, about 6 meter in diameter, the clock that was on the ground. It had thick glass "shield" and it was held in place by a ring of metal. It seemed like there was no way to lift the glass, only to break it. Which the group did. The face of the clock was "missing" another metal part that shielded its internal mechanisms. The group tried their best and after a while broke into the mechanisms. They found out that only a part of the clock still is moving. While the main mechanism is big, all the moving parts are at least 20 cm wide. There was a small part, not connected to the main one, that was a lot smaller and inside the clock's wall. They couldn't see inside what was going on, seeing only more mechanism. This thing had a weight on it and was in constant movement. Later they figured it as the winding up mechanism. At first, Scarlett threw a dagger inside the mechanism. It stopped moving and the main started. She went up but after that, the glass repaired itself since the room "cleaned" itself up after half a minute. She was trapped and barely saved herself since the hands started to move at a faster rate, almost cutting her in half. The party broke the glass and took her out. However, our little halfling returned her dagger magically to her hand. The clock rewinded to the previous state and stopped again. They thought also about moving the arms of the clock to point to the door. Maybe that would open it but it didn't and Mario almost cut his hands. Scarlett tried using a mithril ingot bar to stop the internal mechanism but it fell inside. Later Balasar tried his luck by catching the moving weight and almost breaking his bones. Since the force of it was big enough that his hands would get hit very hard. He held the weight, the internal mechanism stopped. Thanks to his Fly spell he was able to levitate inside the clock without needed to stand near or on any moving parts. They started to move faster and faster. Balasar relayed what he saw inside. How the smaller mechanism started to rust in his fingers. Soon, the party started to feel something move. A giant earthquake that shook the whole room for a minute. When it stopped, the magical light went out. The clock moved faster and faster. At first, there was only darkness in the room. Then the familiar dim light appeared. Elhaeltôr saw something black moving past in incredible speed. He tried to stop it. Felt an arm of a male. Didn't saw his face but a single green light. The figure vanished. It came to this room more but it moved in even more speed, nobody could stop it. The group saw the internal mechanisms of the clock rust. Even the glass turned black and started to crack. When it finally broke and the glass shards fell inside (Balasar was under the number 12 so he was saved from falling stuff), time returned to normal. The whole clock was a rust pile. Balasar got out using force and he felt that something was still here. He bumped it with his shield and it fell down making a metal noise.

He was safe. Only his glove was destroyed due to time. Elhaeltôr tried to do something before but once he cast Mage Hand and touched the clock, it disappeared like time of the spell was up. The door led to another teleportation circle, this time it was in good shape. The exit was open, no more darkness. The door that was ripped out was still there and even part of the wire that Elhaeltôr used. Scarlett went down the rusty clock to check out what was left. She found the minute hand intact. Golden and magical. Elhaeltôr took it to identify. They also found the mithral bar which didn't look like mithral anymore. It felt heavier and had a rusty look to it (brown and copper colors). Elhaeltôr found out that the item Scarlett found could be used as a spear and it was indeed now a weapon in their hands. It short it was a Legendary spear that could tear time (1d6 psychic damage), revert time (reroll missed attacks and/or use a reaction to cause other people to reroll theirs) also the ability to duplicate or extended time (giving the user an additional Action to use). A powerful item indeed. For now, they didn't use it and hid it. Nobody wanted it that badly but they saw that it was very powerful.

On their way back, they took the golem to their Portable Hole, since it could be used as a pattern for golem creation. Returning to the main corridor, they checked the other door. Here they found more evidence of drows - their bodies. Also, a corpse of an unicorn. After investigation, this was a big room with few others. They saw circles in all of them. These were more sophisticated magical prisons. They should have held some powerful beings here. The drow freed some kind of tiger or lion that walked on two feet. It killed the unicorn and then attacked the drow killing most of them. Two bodies were cut into small pieces instantly by something else. There were no more signs of the assailant nor any other prisoner. The drow, however, came here alter and took the horn and some unicorn hair. This unicorn was native to the material plane so it didn't return to its home plane with Banishment. The party didn't waste any more time and went up.

Corrupted Everlasting Orb​

The last floor. Bookcases without books. Destroyed tables. Rotted wood everywhere. After an investigation, this was used as the archmage's study. Here he came to read and maybe experiment a little. They found out that the drow did a throughout the job and ransacked the whole place for valuables. Even finding secret stuff. However, there were signs that somebody used this place before. The bed, desk, and chair were in top shape compared to the other wood. They didn't know who it might have been. Baltsar, the white necromancer, that was at the tower never got to the top. There was a teleportation circle but alas it was destroyed like the others. When the party got to the roof through the balcony, they found a big black orb levitating above ground. About 50cm above the floor, this black sphere had at least one meter in diameter. The party felt that this was the reason for the darkness surrounding the lands. Elhaeltôr wanted to Identify the sphere but once he touched it, he felt the necrotic energies entering his body. Using healing magic with the help of others, he was able to withstand one minute of the damage and finally cast the spell in the full. This sphere was responsible for the darkness. Over time it decays the surrounding area and increases the power of undead creatures.

Not wanting to take it with them, they decided to leave it for Elhaeltôr to later research it. On their way back, the group decided to check the guardian golem - the iron one that used fire to regenerate. What they found that the drows broke inside, destroying the wall that Finnean created with paint. They also took the golem and distinguished the other flames. There were signs of a forward base for the drow near the front entrance. Elhaeltôr wanted to close the tower using Fabricate, creating a wedge for the doors. When they started working on it, Scarlett saw something outside. Somebody was impaled a couple of meters before the tower. They recognized him as the mage from Orth, who was here to research the tower. They took him down and checked his body. He had many wounds. Most of them were on his back, from arrows. His hands were destroyed and he had signs of torture (missing teeth and nails). The group decided to take him to Golden Spring for now. You could say it was the group's fault he was dead. The drow barely came here, only to scout out. Suddenly they found that something changed and they could enter. More came and Baltsar was caught off guard.

 

[Havoc]

The party decided to go to the University (Wszechnica), so this session was more of an info dump than anything else. Baâ wasn't interested, so she didn't go. The player stayed to listen how everything went.

---

Chapter XI

Session 86: Floating Knowledge

Before our players went, Solange wanted to meet with somebody and that was Raerlin. He met the old dragon in his house and wanted to ask more about the University. The monk had a plan to get inside and try to steal back the manuscript, the one that spoke about Lord Sun's religion and "truth". Vibius the Traveler was the historian that penned the piece, but his manuscript, before being destroyed, was copied for safety and sent somewhere. This copy found it's way to the University and then was made into a book. Circulation quickly stop and the books were destroyed. The manuscript still exists somewhere inside the University. Raerlin tells Solange that it has to be hidden in the secret libraries. However, access to that place is strictly controlled and nobody except Arch-Masters, Rector and those allowed by them can get there. From what he heard from his friend, that works as the Keeper of the Library, the manuscript should be there and the chances that anybody will get in and out alive are non-existent. He warned Solange that the University existed for over one thousand years. It gets bigger and bigger every generation. Its safety precautions are so superb that nobody can get into, even the best rogue would have a problem. If there was a moment, that somebody could get inside the secret vaults, it already happened - just after Actur's death. Magic was wonky at that time. The University, that was based on a mountain, got hammered pretty badly. It now levitates over land that once was a mountain range. Raerlin believes that only then Solange would have a chance to get inside and get his manuscript. The dragon asked Solange to not do anything reckless when he will be there. Solange thanked for the information and left.

The University (Wszechnica)​

The group got with Malledius Malefricum, the tiefling that they met earlier and he is the person, that will teleport them to the University. Later, they learned that Malledius is actually a Magister, so he is higher than a Teacher and lower than a Professor in the hierarchy. Not counting higher ranks like Master and Arch-Master. When the group was teleported to the University, they were in the Teleportation Circle Tower, which is a tall tower with many rooms, which house teleportation circle to different places. Now, they could see that they were in a levitating city, housing nearly three thousand people. A complex of buildings. Districts created by each school of magic and more. Some bigger, depending on the needs of that school of magic. On the lowest level, they saw the reception area, where a lot of people from different cultures were standing. They saw people from the far south and north. Even three people that had symbols of Black Rose. Which was pretty strange, if you believe the rumors about kidnapping wizards by the Great Empire.

"Imps" (Chochlik)​

Their first goal was the Library since they wanted to meet with the Keeper of the Library. On the way, they saw many different creatures living here or visiting. Mainly Humans from the northern parts of the continent. There were many elves, half-elves, gnomes, dwarves, dragonborns, and some halflings. Tieflings, Aasimars and Genasi were seen in very small numbers. There were even stranger creatures like Mage Ogres (Oni). There were some new beings that the party never encountered. First time seeing them in their lives. Called Chochlik (there are few variations for the word Imp and there already exists beings called Imp and Pixie). Small, brown-yellowish creatures that walked with stacks of papers, talked to each other in a language unknown to anybody. People around them ignored them or made way, not wanting to stop them in their tracks. These Chochliks come from an unknown plane, where law and order triumphed. Long ago, the Rector wanted to stop politics inside the halls, the evergrowing war of influence and seats. He found these creatures that were enticed with becoming not only the bureaucratic body of the University, which was still big at that time but also gain access to huge volumes of knowledge. From that moment, all the regulations and laws were made by the Chochliks to stamp out corruption (they never took bribes nor picked favorites), power struggles (raising in ranks has many rules but few exceptions) and relieved the other staff from duties (now the mages could concentrate on knowledge and arcana). This doesn't mean there is no political stuff at the University. Mainly in the higher ranks. Many decades ago, the University lost their Arch-Masters, only a few remains. Those turned onto the empty seats and took into their hands their work. No new Arch-Masters were elected to fill the vacancies. The Rector doesn't see that as a big problem nor the other Arch-Masters. The University isn't struggling without filling the positions. It might be because even if there is no Arch-Master, that school of magic still is supported by their staff of Magisters, Professors and Masters.

After a little guide, the group entered the Library. Greeted by Chochliks they were given guest passes. It seemed that they should have been given at the start of their journey, but because they were with a Magister that was waived, until now. The tiefling left them in the Library since it would take them quite some time to do what they want and he wanted to return to his work. Later, they would meet with the Rector. The Library inside was an enormous building. Shelves upon shelves of tomes. Not only the whole ground floor was filled with bookshelves, but the five more floors were also. You could think that this building could house over a million books. Our old elven friend was happy, since his memory loss, he didn't remember a lot of these books and he had a chance to read them again. The group talked with one of the librarians and learned about the rules. Mainly, guest and students aren't allowed to rent books to take them outside, unless given permission. No book can leave the University complex. Also, there was a lot of people around. A lot of background noise. Later, the group would learn there are special earplugs, making far sounds silent and near only quiet. Making it an ideal item for people wanting to read with friends nearby. The group asked to meet with Naevys Moon Shadow and since it will take time for her to arrive, they decided to search for information. It's good to note now, that Solange took Iesha, the Eye of Many cleric, with them. She would search for information for the group.

To gain information about what is where the group was guided to the Indexing Pillar. This giant pillar was stacked with shelves. A large number of papers. Imps. Yes, devils. Flew around the pillar. Searching for information that people at their desk would ask for. All you need to do is wait in one of four lines to an Imp desk, ask what topic you search for, only one, and the Imp would later fly down and tell you books, their name, and location in the Library. All you need to write it down. Only one topic is allowed per person, so you would need to go back to the line. It actually was a simple puzzle for the group. They could wait half an hour in a line or somehow get past the line. Balasar tried intimidating the Imps. It barely worked. The best one was from Mario - bribery. Not the Imps mind you but people on the line. This was the real catch. Most of the people on the line weren't very rich. Mario learned that it would cost him 500gp to send Luigi here to catch up with studies (history, reading, writing, etiquette, etc), while the magic school would cost him 1500gp and that's all "catch up" from what he is already. It really is for rich people but most of the rich kids weren't in the line. Those were middle class (merchant class) or poorer (craftsmen, villagers). Their gimmick? Stay in line, a rich boy comes, pays you to take your place or stand before you (the latter is more expensive since you need to bribe everybody behind him), then you go to the back and wait again. Repeat. That's how people got their money here and the Imps didn't interfere since they liked this system.

The group asked about some topics. Everybody had about an hour to find what they looked for. Solange found barely any information about Eclipsed, but there were some mentions about them in the books. Mario asked about Contegoaurum. Didn't find much. Most of the information he knew. He got a map, a family tree an found that the Duke had four children - three sons and one daughter. Before the fall happened, ten people of the main line were alive. They are presumed dead. Iesha was asked to find information about Valena - the Mother aspect. She found out that before Actur came one of the bigger Valena's churches was called Cult of the Mother, where she was called just that. It was strong in Contegoaurum and many other places. Here dogma changed a little since coming of Avatar of Trinity and the forming of the Dominium Trinity Church. Now the religion is more uniform. Cult of the Mother has three dogma - "Defend Life, Because It Brings the Future", "Nature is Part of Life, Respect It" and "Home is Most Important, Never Turn Your Back to It." There is also a saying "Long Life, Happy Life" that was used as a greeting. Scarlett searched for information about Halflings. She found out that almost all historians put their coming about couple years to couple decades before Actur showed up. They appeared on the Green Hills, later renamed to Halfling Hills, where they found deep in orc territory and the Monster Empire. When the Dominium came, they happily joined forces. After Actur's fall, they stayed on the hills and became more reclusive. They barely traded and allowed others on their land. Even when, humans were attacking the elven kingdom, which was their neighbor, nor with the duergar rise in the Anvil Mountains. About a century later, they were attacked by a huge horde of orcs, that some say was controlled by a dragon. When they won, they changed their attitude and welcomed travelers with open hands. From that moment forward, the halfling race is more known to the whole Tethys. One researcher called Edward Ellisen tells another story. He points to the most southward kingdom called the Southlander Independent Kingdom, that existed before Actur's death and was destroyed after due to a huge tsunami. Only one city is now standing there. The researcher points to notes that long ago the kingdom, nearly two to three hundred years before Actur, send out search parties to the jungles. One of the rarest findings were small humanoid creatures. They looked like humans, acted more intelligent and were evasive. They didn't speak the human language. The Southlanders thought them to be Actuvians from the time when All-Father died. They got lost in the jungles and created their own culture. It diverged a lot from the humans from the kingdom. There is little to no information about their way of life. The Southlanders called them Pigmey, just that. The researcher points that this couldn't be humans but something else - halflings. The first ones that appeared. A new race. The last person to ask about stuff was Balasar. He wanted to have some historical knowledge about the canyon. The kingdom Golden River was created about 150 years after Tiberion's fall, which meant over 1100 years ago. Due to constant warfare between the duchies. It was thanks to the Golden City that changed all of that. They united the duchies under one banner. It took many generations before the kingdom was stable. Nearly three hundred years before Actur the kingdom struck a big vein of gold ore. It was one of the biggest findings. The region was very bountiful but now it was even more so. This finding was a curse in disguise. Soon, the neighbors and even further ones started to attack the kingdom for its riches. For about 100 years, the kingdom stood strong but barely. This changed when the plan to create a giant wall was formed. Some say the Archmage Vannozzo had his hand in it. When the wall was completed, it stopped all attacks and the kingdom's golden age began. After 150 years, it became the richest and strongest nation in the whole of Tethys. When Actur came, they stayed the main financier of the whole war. Even if they lost out on being the capital of the Dominium. After the fall, everybody knows what happened. The canyon for nearly half a century is engulfed in dust and it takes many years for plant life to come back. The first dozen or so years, adventurers tried their best to venture into the canyon but all fail. Until the coming of the Bone Coterie. After the defeat of the Undead Dragon, part of the canyon started to be habitable and civilization comes. For nearly 200 years, part of the canyon stands on their own legs, called River Return. It counts about 10,000 inhabitants, not counting monsters. There were other interesting tidbits about the canyon. The Vannozzo part was the first one. The second was that Golden King Octavius Aurumsultun was the last king. He was crowned in the presence of the High King Actur. He wanted to bring back money from the war front and put in technology and mystic arts. He ruled only for five years. The third was that Tiberion Courvelux had children and they might have escaped when the poisoning happens. The history doesn't note about their assassins. There would be more info but low Investigation rolls are low.

Naevys Moon Shadow
Keeper of the Library
Hidden Silver Dragon
Friend of Palarandusk/Raerlin​

After an hour of searching, the Keeper arrived. It was a tall elven woman. Moon elf. Delicate skin, beautiful face, and long silvery hair. She recognized Harthion immediately a was quite cold towards the group. Felt like she wanted to be somewhere else. They agreed to meet somewhere private, so she guided them to one of the many rooms of the Library, where you can sit down alone and read. The group didn't gain a lot of knowledge from the elf, dragon actually. She explained that almost all knowledge is in the Library. Very little is hidden since the University believes in sharing it more than hiding it. The knowledge that is hidden was deemed too dangerous. One of such topics is Chronomancy, the school of time manipulation. The University also has many powerful artifacts hidden. They tried to ask some questions but most of the time, she referred to the Library. Like asking about Eye of Many or the Hidden Lord. How you can gain access to thsi hidden knowledge? You can't. She has access but will not take them there. Nobody except the Arch-Masters, Rector and those selected by them can't enter those rooms, places. They aren't willing to share this knowledge. She was also asked about Sigurd's parasite. This intrigued her. However, the party saw that the interest she showed, for the first time, was actually to the man, not to the monster he had attached to him. Asked about that, she explained that she is interested in the human race, especially in the exemplary parts of it. Sigurd is such an example. The dragon didn't know anything about the parasite and referred to the Library that it could house more information. Something might come up. They were also granted a pin from her dress as a way to skip the line to the Imps and ask about books directly. Making research faster. She told the group that she is only interested in keeping the University and it's goals safe. Nothing else matters to her.

Wilhelm Kranz
Rector of the University
Previous Arch-Master of Abjuration​

Later, the group met with the tiefling and he escorted them to the main building of the whole University. In the highest tower, where the Rector resides. This tower is also used for Professors, council meetings and such. Rector was a human male. His accent was "German", which was like Baâ since they are from the same north Midlands. The group didn't learn anything interesting from the Rector. He greeted them. He told the group that the circle allows the group to visit them, however, if they don't make contracts with Malifex, the other magic organization. They did try to gain access to the hidden vaults, trying to maybe entice the Rector with their findings or items. However, they were shot down when the Rector told them that he will think about it if they retrieve one item for him - Deck of Many Things. Everybody at the table and reading knows what this item is, so there is no need for introduction. The party now knew what could be inside the vaults, if the deck was something considered as a ticket inside. Later, they would get the copy of the agreement between the kingdom and the University. Which will take some time for Balasar to read since it was made by bureaucratic creatures.

 

[Havoc]

Another info dump and some downtime actions. Also, some Kingdom Building happened.

---

Chapter XI

Session 87: Expensive Knowledge and Management

After meeting with the Rector, the party went with Elhaeltôr to get his stuff. The Main Terminal was a place where the Chochliks gathered and served those that needed information or any other inquiry. The party went to one of them, sitting behind one of many desks in the hall. Elhaeltôr wanted to be discreet about who he was, however, that didn't work quite well. The Chochlik brought a crystal ball, that you had to touch and it would say who you are in the University. Elhaeltôr touched it and it loudly spoke "Honorific Professor, Harthion Gold Leaf." He was told that his stuff is ready. His room that he had in the main tower is already taken by someone else. He rented 132 books but never brought them back, so a penalty was accumulated. Since he was a professor, the fee, which was over 15,000 gold, was annulled. Inside the box of his things, there was actually little of value. Some old pieces of clothing that he had on him over 10 years ago, a pen and other minor stuff. Elhaeltôr asked for another room, so he had to fill out a form and was declined when he wrote it in his "new" name. It was the first time that Elhaeltôr wrote his name as Harthion Gold Leaf. The party saw that his instincts didn't fade away. He wrote a beautiful, iconic signature onto the form. He would be given a room but much later.

The party then decided to go to the magical shop the University had. It was near the sky port. There stood a big building, couple of stories high. Inside they saw many different guardian beings. Most of them were constructs like golems, be them Iron, Clay or Stone. There were also conjured servants. Enormous snakes that coiled around columns, that could eat a horse in one swoop. Even a Celestial was seen. The magical items were mainly behind glass cabinets. Everything was named, had some description and even a price. Only those very rare ones you had to have permission for and those were inside magical barriers, set on arcane circles and such. There were about five most expensive magic items in the shop. The first was a Ring of Invisibility, cost of 120,000gp. The second was Belt of Storm Giant Strength, cost of 150,000gp. The third was Horn of Valhalla (Iron), cost of 100,000gp. The fourth was a Vorpal Longsword, cost of 200,000gp. The fifth was a Defender in the form a scimitar, cost of 120,000gp. There were other, more expensive things in the shop, but the group didn't go to check out the magical spellbooks. Those even went as high as 300,000gp! You could buy a kingdom with all of the wealth here.

Fonkin Horcusporcus
Master of Conjuration
Keeper of the Magical Vault​

The group surveyed around. Not really interested in buying anything. Many of those that they were, cost over 10,000gp. One of which was a Tome of Leadership and Influence. The group already used one such book. This one cost about 20,000gp only. Balasar went to the "owner" of the shop. He just finished making a sale of some iron bracelets to a Rakshasa, that came here with his entourage. The group quickly found out that the gnome is actually close to them - he is the father of Ellyjoybell, the guild master in Orth. During their talks, they found out that he is very overprotective of his daughter. When he learned that the group is the Golden Shield, he was interested in meeting with Finnean, who knows why. However, he wasn't here, so he told them to pass an invitation to him. Balasar tried to haggle for the book. That didn't go well. The bunny, that was apparently the gnome's familiar, rose up, started snarling and even got bigger for some reason. The talks didn't end well since there was really nothing for the group to offer the gnome in exchange for a discount. He wished them a good day but in the end, they didn't buy anything.

Before going back to the Library for more information, the group met with Naevys. There they asked her about other dragons, mainly the white dragon in the north. When she was shown the location, she recognized it as Cudiryr, the Hungry. He was killed long ago, so it couldn't be him. He did have a son - Rinnam, the Mammoth. She doesn't know much else since she isn't interested that much in politics. She told the group that they should be wary of Eternal Fire, the one who was the father to Frirdayn. Also, if they do search for conflict, it's better to not have it with Sedyryn. If they had to choose, better fight with the white dragon. They didn't ask about anymore dragons.

Harthion Gold Leaf​

Later, the group continued on their journey to gain more information. Solange searched with Iesha for knowledge about the first cults of the sun. He found most of the information he knew from the manuscript. There was a lot of cults in the Lizardmen folklore. Lots of it didn't survive to this day and was culled when humanity came to the southern jungles. The bloody sacrifices stopped and apparently, Lord Sun appeared. There was some speculation that he came with humans or they awakened him like with the other ones. Elhaeltôr searched for information about himself or rather Harthion. He even found a picture of him. Somebody long ago painted a portrait of him. From what the historians gathered, was nothing that Elhaeltôr didn't already know. He was once called the Bearer of the Sword, as he was one of few that could wield an Anar'hyanda, the high elf "moonblade". He disappeared with his sister when Actur died. Many speculated that he was in the Betrayers' Forest and turned into a drow, but after 100 years, so over 200 years ago, he reappeared. He was still a high elf but became more reclusive. He took the name Elhaeltôr and was mainly seen in the Elven Sanctuary. Balasar searched for information about moments in history that could be classified as "near cataclysms" and if people died, like what the Eye of Many said. Apparently, some historians do entice the idea calling it Near Cataclysms. From what he gathered, there were about 9 such events. Four of them between fall of All-Father and Actur and five between Actur to now. These would mean that the cataclysms are happening more often. Even the latest, that is considered by them, happened just 12 years ago and between that and the previous one was only 20 years. Logically, another cataclysm is heading this way. Those that are considered as such were written down. The fall of the Red Tyrant, the red dragon who ruled over Oasis wasn't considered a Near Cataclysm since he never searched to gain more power than his boundaries. Few I have written down. First one was something that happened 1500 years ago when a tribe of Wood Elves in a big forest called the East Wilds, found an artifact that could create enormous ents. They used them to form an army and attack the nearest human kingdom. They even razed their capital. This was stopped by an unknown group of human adventurers. When the artifacts were destroyed, they died with the wood elves. However, the ents turned into a forest, rooting themselves in place and creating what's now called Butchers' Forest that resides in the Actur Kingdom. No elf has permission to enter that forest. Another event happened over 200 years ago when a dwarven sea captain called Captain Maskir Revengebeard (Mścibroda sounds better). He formed an armada and attacked western ports, razing to the ground cities that were taken over by the humans in the Rage of Men. He even could call gigantic beasts from the seas to help him. He was stopped by a group of dwarven fighters calling themselves Broken Axe, wanting to stop all the bloodshed that happened not that long ago. They died during a sea battle. The armada was destroyed and nobody heard from them again. The nearest happened near Rudbar, a Fire Giant Fortress. In the Fire Mountains, the giants created a massive siege engine that they used to attack and conquer cities. They were stopped 12 years ago by a group of dragonborn. However, the engine exploded, killing them also. Scarlett searched for information about her eyes since the dragon lady didn't have much to share. However, she didn't gain anything new. Her eyes could have a lot of different meanings - an omen from the gods, fiendish workings or alchemical or magical blunder. Nothing was for certain. Mario searched for information about the Great Emperor. He found out that before he was known as such, he did appear in the jungle of All-Races Jungle. He wore his trademark armor. Many speculated he was some kind of powerful entity since he killed everything that stood in his path. Even dragons. However, nobody is for certain of that feat. The group knows about his showing up about 3 years ago when he conquered the city-states in the middle continent. One of which was Balasar's hometown. However, the historians point out that he showed up sooner, about 6 years ago in the great city of All-Capital. He defeated royal guards, lizardmen that defended their leader - a Storm Giant, who didn't want to accept the challenge the Great Emperor issued. After they were killed, they both fought and the Great Emperor was the victor. Soon after it, a mysterious army appeared in the city. Cladded in black armor, the Black Rose rose up and slaughtered the clerics and those that didn't renounce their religion. After that, the Great Emperor proclaimed his goal and the Great Empire of Freedom was born. He conquered other cities and never once lost a battle. He did convince a lot of different creatures to his cause. Nobody knows how, maybe it's the armor or what is said, but once he does, they are fanatical to him.

The other topics were more scarce with information. First one was by Scarlett. She wanted to know about Halfling's artifacts. However, the race is new on the continent. Hardly any artifacts are around. Most were non-magical stuff from the times the Halflings fought during the Dominium times or against the orcs. Some were just magical items halfling heroes wore or had with them. Almost all of those are back in the hands of the race. Hardly a topic for research. The other was Cherubs from Balasar. He wanted to know more. From what he gathered, the iconography was since the beginning of the human race on Tethys. Even their oldest temples on the continent of Actuvius had it. They represented messengers of the gods, bringers of hope or good news and even those that foreshadowed changes. Since the fall of All-Father, the humans started to migrate all over Tethys and their religious beliefs changed generation by generation. After two thousand years, the Cherubs stopped being part of their rituals. Even after High King Actur came and the church of Trinity was formally formed, they still didn't reappear. They aren't treated like some kind of heretical thing, just something anachronical and not used anymore. Solange searched for topics about Lord Sun and visions he grants. It was a mighty broad, however, he did find that that amongst those that are unverified, some were. The latest one is known to Solange since it was just before his birth when his Brotherhood reclaimed their old monastery. The one who was given the vision was none other than the Grand Master. The last topic was made by Mario, who wanted to know more about Imperium and their military and spy network. However, most of it is fresh in the books. Very few people know what is happening behind closed doors. Apparently, Black Rose isn't only a fighting force but also a spy network. They do employ more agile races like halflings and gnomes, even dwarves and elves. It is unknown how they operate, but what is known that they have very good information flow and have hands-on knowledge about places they visit. Cities that fell due to the army, were quickly conquered and the army somehow knew the ins and outs of their enemies' fortifications. Even the Emperor knew who and what when he went to meet in person those in power. The group ended their investigations after that and decided it's time to say their goodbyes.

Johnathan​

The group returned to their home. First order of business was the Eagle's Wing, the advanced adventurers' group. They succeed during their undead extermination. Brought many Contegoaurum artifacts (non-magical, historic items). However, they were able to recover a magical sword, which was called the Loyal Defender. A rapier that is seen on many paintings of Contegoaurum Dukes. This was the last part of the three-piece magic items of the Duke. The group didn't send them anywhere else for the time being. The other stuff was about Morquetto. With information provided and successful rolls on Religion, they now knew that Morquetto is in the hands of a fiend cult. Calling themselves Cult of the Kiss. It's a rare offshoot of the Cult of Fierna, who is an Archdevil, Lady of Succubus. They seek out love, bring love but mostly debauchery and hedonism, which explains why Morquetto is visited by wealthy people. They are behind those who disappeared in the town. The group debated what to do and decided to leave it for now, until they get more information. Octavio was sent money to continue his work and gain information about the cult workings and what about the townsfolk - do they want to be saved? We also had two downtime scenes. One was with Balasar. During his work on the Citadel of Sun, he heard of another incident about defacing Lord Sun's road shrine. However, this time somebody stopped him. He went to investigate. The offender was drunk at the time and disliked that Lord Sun gets priority. He was made to apologize to all people in the town (over 200) personally. However, Balasar was convincing enough for the young man to see the errors of his way and become someone better. He also found out that the man who stopped the defacing refused reward money, so he went to meet him. After a long talk, his name was Johnathan. A pretty proud and ambitious man, who came to work for Balasar. He heard about the many hardships the dragonborn went through and wanted to be part of it. He wanted to make a name for himself since his past in the Kingdom of Easthaven was rough. His father while being high in the military, took many bribes and worked with bandits. He wanted to distance himself from that. Balasar even found out that the young man is agnostic, he doesn't have a patron. The other downtime was with Elhaeltôr. Annael Silver Blade came to visit, not even announcing himself. After some pleasant greetings, which Annael disliked making, he informed the old elf about his findings - about Harthion's sister. Elhaelnith wasn't seen since the fall. He knows she is still inside the Betrayers' Forest. She stopped using her old name and fully embraced the name "Queen's Servant." Annael tried to scry anything he could but all failed. Drow cities are heavily guarded and divining magic fails on them. Even some drow parties that wander the forest or Undertethys use some kind of abjuration magic to prevent scrying. Elhaeltôr thanked for the help and later asked if Annael wanted to research with him something. Annael agreed to. So, Elhaeltôr will have some help in researching the black orb in Vannozzo's tower.

Baâ's New Portrait and Mario's New Portrait
Old ones

Spoiler

A couple of days later, we took care of Kingdom Building. Mainly some info. First off, Finnean stopped being the Grand Diplomat so the party decided to change stuff. Balasar took his spot, while Scarlett became the Councilor, which she isn't that good with. The kingdom built more farms and even rebuilt the old fort to the south-east, where the Cyclopi were. Later, it was expanded to be the start of the Orc village. For now, called Ogrimmar. The kingdom started to build their first Mint in the capital and even start rebuilding the Castra Vetera port. The latter "activated my trap card" and the party found items and loot. Nearly 10 BP (which would translate to 20,000gp) and a couple of magic items - Mace of Terror, Shadow Melting*, Ring of Djinni Summoning**, Wonderous Figurine (Sepertine Owl) and Dwarven Thrower. Next, Balasar finally changed the Taxation from Crushing to Normal, so the population finally could breathe more (he still wanted to at least change it to Heavy but it wasn't that worth it to me... he is still greedy). More mines and farms were built. The only event that happened during this three turns was the creation of a magnificent item - somebody created a giant, golden statue of Lord Sun on top of the Citadel. Made people from all around come to visit, so the place boomed for a month.

*Non-official item. A studded leather +1, which gave Advantage to Stealth and allowed once per rest to jump between shadows.
**They rolled Ring of Three Wishes, so I said NOOOOOOO and had them reroll until something normal came up.

---

Kingdom Building

Time - Round 13-15, Season Winter, Year 313

Kingdom Building Full Stats - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FdgMRzQZO6Qd9xBBT0YqN68V3LkRQliva9ZFslM-G8o/edit?usp=sharing

Roles:

Spoiler

Ruler
Mario de Capodimonte

Consort
None

Councilor
Scarlett

General
Gwendolyn

Grand Diplomat
Balasar Faamtenargakexud

Heir
Luigi de Capodimonte

High Priest
Quennar Wood Step

Magister
Elhaeltôr

Marshal
Baâ

Royal Enforcer
Boghat Reborn

Spymaster
Solange Sunseer

Treasurer
Lord Magmos

Viceroy
None

Warden
Thalal Giantsbane
​

Kingdom Map

Spoiler

Undertethys Map

Spoiler

Settlements

Spoiler

Golden Spring Settlement
Buildings:
- Castle (Golden Spring)
- Houses x1
- Mansion (Orth Embassy)
- Mansion (Quadropolis Embassy)
- Brewery (Om's)
- Smithy (Odon's Armorsmith)
- Smithy (Zutshosh's Weaponsmith)
- Foundry
- Barracks
- Exotic Artisan (Maria Jeweler)
- Caster's Tower (Elhaeltôr's Laboratory)
- Market (building...)
- Noble Villa (Capodimonte Family Villa)
- Warehouse
Castra Vetera Ruined Buildings (can be rebuilt):
- Palace
- Waterfront
- Cathedral (of Trinity)
- Temple (of Lord Sun)
- Theatre

Citadel of the Sun Settlement
Buildings:
- Castle (Citadel of the Sun)

Ogrimmar (Temporary Name?)
Buildings:
- Stables
- Garrison

Armies

Spoiler

- Regular Army - 100 men, 2nd level Fighters, Equipped with Magic Weapon and Magic Armor
- Red Mercenaries (Orth) - 100 men, 1st level Fighters, Normal Equipment
- Gantholorank (Goliath Mercenaries) - 20 men, 4th level Barbarians, Normal Equipment
- Brightaxe Company (free, only for defense) - 200 men, 4th level Fighters, Equipped with Magic Weapon and Magic Armor

 

[Havoc]

Due to time constraints (more sessions), I don't have enough will to continue this journal in the normal format (it takes me roughly from 1 hour to 2 hours to write one), so I will write less now, mainly info, fewer pictures. Also, we had two sessions and some downtime stuff (the latter will not be written here).

---

Chapter XI

Session 88-89: Land of the Water

The group debated what to do, before going to the Oasis. Mario proposed taking the dragon head as a gift, however, the rest was heavily opposed, even arguing that the people of the kingdom won't like it. They prepared other gifts. Using their connection with the University, they paid for the teleportation to Oasis. There they rested in one of the ports before going to the capitol, they wanted to take some stuff along the way first, before meeting the king. They took with them Luigi (Mario's son), Wyne (Luigi's friend and that guy from the Arena that Mario fought), Iesha (Solange wanted to take her), Johnathan (Balasar's right hand) and of course Beniamino (Mario's cousin). During their fun in the port, Mario was "poisoned" by probably Wyne who added a lot of spice to his food, to make a joke. Baâ first time in her life saw the Inner Sea and turned into an animal to fly around. There was nothing more special here.

Adalfredo Finamore
Grand Master of Knights of the Table​

The party decided to first visit Mario's order of paladins. Beniamino would depart since he wanted to prepare everything in the capitol. Here is where they saw the stark difference in the region. The further you are inland, the less green you see and more of a desert it is. The area is mostly dry. With that, the kingdom is actually many city-states working together that were saved from dragon rule couple of years ago and swore fealty to the new king. The party went to the order's fortress that for some reason was one of the greenest places around, with all the gardens and orchards. The paladins themselves lived in a fortress that sat on a hill, surrounded by a small village. It was full in vines and bushes. The party was greeted by paladins wearing armor adorned with nature-themed elements. Their grandmaster was the most "green" of them all. There was some strange aura about him. His horse even was green with glowing eyes. He was pleasantly surprised to see Mario. They ate inside, a feast. They saw that the Grand Master doesn't eat and he just pours wine into his helmet. They spoke about some political stuff. The Order wasn't going to be against the king if he doesn't break his vows to them. He did hint that if the king died and the new one didn't swear the same stuff (independence, their own place), they could act against a usurper. Later, Mario spoke with the Grand Master alone and they talked about his faith and confidence. The Grand Master told him that he sees that Mario just has "king's burden" on him, nothing more. He later revealed to him that he actually is a walking armor, there is nothing else inside. However, he could "summon" a thousand strong army if need be. That might be why the dragon never fought against the Grand Master. The party rested here and went to the capitol

Oasis (Capitol City)​

There is a giant river that branches into two. One goes to the Inner Sea, while the other to the All-Sea. Those two are very wide (about 5-6 kilometer wide), which means that many ships visit the Oasis, which is a city built on an island where the river branches. Long ago (about 3000 years ago), it was a gnome city that was destroyed by giants. Rebuilt many times by newer inhabitants. The dragons ruled over 300 years. New rulers have just a couple of years and still are repairs after the war that took place. They met with Beniamino before going to meet with the king.

Darinius de Capodimonte
Grand Advisor
Hero of Oasis
Mario's Uncle​

Apparently, Mario's uncle got wind of Beniamino's plan to relocate the family and stationed soldiers of the family near their estates. He might just order them to seize control of the households and their wealth as a way to punish them for betraying the main family. The group talked on what to do. Even discussing in length how much Mario hates his uncle and thinks he is behind his father death (his father took a ship to sea and never came back, then the uncle took over the estate). Luigi was asked if he wants to see his mother, which he was happy to do. Wyne would go with them. Iesha told them that she could take care of the kids, "it is a test" they said and allowed her. Johnathan also asked and Balasar agreed to it. This is where they departed. The party and Beniamino went to visit the palace.

Once this place was the seat of the Red Tyrant. It was destroyed and a palace to Valena was built. The king's seat is here. Before entering, they had to check out their weapons at the entrance, so most of them did. Mario was allowed to keep the artifact (Rexgladio) on him. They entered and the first person they meet is Darinius. He acted coldly towards his family and the group, asking why they came to the kingdom. Seeing that they just wanted to greet the king, he allowed it and escorted them to the king.

Antonio Fonterutoli
King of the Oasis
Breaker of Chains
Stealer of Hearts
Dragon Slayer​

The young man was barely the age of Luigi, with shining armor and sword. Darinius as the Grand Advisor stood beside him. The party couldn't get closer than 20 meters to the king. They greeted the king and presented gifts. Later, they told about why they came to the kingdom. There were some talks about building a relationship. However, after the monologue, the king wasn't happy. Going by his advisors, he sees the Golden Shield more like rabble-rousers than a true kingdom. They steer the pot and provoke their neighbors, even while being heroes. The first king they visit isn't a neighbor but a far away one. This just would make everybody angry. Furthermore, he wasn't willing to get any relationships with them because that would be more trouble for everybody. After that, they told their goodbyes. Beniamino was angry and relieved at the same time. Relieved because he thought Mario would try to duel Darinius. Angry because he used words and phrases that would anger a king. Comparing their countries, when they aren't even neighbors and have veeery different histories. Insinuating that the king might not see everything. And many more. Since it wasn't as bad as he thought, he left it at that. They discussed the way what to do next. The king did bring very interesting stuff to them.

Regnar Blackthorne
The Butcher
An agent of the Great Empire of Freedom​

First off, they never visited the kings of Kingdom of Actur nor Kingdom of the Vale. Even the Elementi Revivo after a year of work, they didn't try to contact them. They still aren't seen as a rightful kingdom. Nobody agreed to them being kings or lords of the canyon. This just makes it more problematic. They decided to take the time off and drink. Discussing more plans what to do next. Suddenly a dwarf entered. They saw that he had symbols of the Great Empire of Freedom. He recognized them as those "young masters" of the new kingdom. He asked if he can join them in their drink. After talking, they got new information out of him. First off, his name is Regnar Blackthorne, nickname The Butcher. He works for the empire because he likes more the roots of his kind (before the Gods) and wants a good fight. He dislikes his previous "family", the Confederacy of Thunderhammer. He revealed that he was sent to the capital because something might have happened and he was needed to safeguard a getaway. Since nothing like that happened, he just went to drink and found the group. The group gave him alcohol from Om, which is very known for the dwarves since the clan of Ragebeard is almost dead and their alcohol is very precious. He revealed also that the main bulk of the empire's army is "deadies." Not quite undead to him, something different. We ended the session on Balasar wanting to test him mantle against the dwarf. Also, Regnar was my character from Neverwinter Nights 2 RP server... yeah.

 

[Havoc]

End of chapter. Baâ and Balasar joined later.

---

Chapter XI

Session 90: Hero of Water

Balasar wasn't at the start, so we "postponed" the fight to another time. Explaining that the dwarf had to go somewhere. The party visited Beniamino once again. They talked about the future of the canyon and other prospects until they decided to leave for Luigi's mom. However, when they were just a day of travel away, they got a message from Iesha, the cleric that was with Luigi. They were attacked in the village by a red dragon. He burned everything and they escaped due to her magic. The party is safe but the village might not be. The group galloped to the town, being there at nightfall. It was devastated and still burning. No dragon in sight. Burned to crisp bodies. Blackened streets and stone buildings. It was a horrible sight. No survivors nearby. The group split up. While the rest had major bad luck (two 1) on searching and Mario had a low one (5), this allowed to make this scene.

Mario was "given a choice." He didn't know if Luigi's mom is alive. He saw only her building in near collapse. Just a moment and the fires would destroy it. He didn't see anybody nor hear anything there. However, to his right, there was another building which was still a raging inferno of catastrophic proportions. He heard somebody yell in pain. He had to choose. He ran into the inferno. There he found someone crushed by a log, he moved it and "accidentally" hit the main column. The whole building collapsed on them. Mario used his body to shield the man and use his powers to heal him at the same time. I did roll some damage but most of it was "artificial." Mario did fall unconscious to it. Later, he was seen taking the man out of the inferno by the rest of the group (Baâ and Balasar joining at this moment). When they saw him, they felt like he "regained something he lost." And this was the moment I awarded Mario 3 Hero Points, the same everybody was getting before the second confrontation with Eye of Many. This was a huge hint on how to regain their Hero Points - they need to sacrifice themselves, become heroes. Later, Mario tried to check on the house of Luigi's mom, it also collapsed at the time. However, there was nobody there. Not even a body. The group did find other survivors and found out that many people escaped to the nearby town. They rested in Elhaeltôr's mansion and did some investigation. First off, the red dragon was huge, apparently the size of their gold dragon friend. Second, he appeared and disappeared suddenly, so it was a surprise attack. Third, he acted alone from what they could gather. Fourth, there was no dragon in a day of travel from the village, which they found out with the druid's red dragon armor. Lastly, most importantly, Luigi's mom was dead for nearly a year. She died due to winter and sickness. The group did visit her grave and Mario used his powers to grow flowers on it.

Vittoria de Albarate
Mario's long lost love​

After a lot of debating what to do, the group decided that they will visit Vittoria, Mario's first love. On the way, they visit Beniamino who relayed them the location of her household, which was three days of travel from the capital or less using boats. They were considering visiting the dwarf, to maybe hire him to help against the dragon but since they were really needed elsewhere, they left it at that. The group did inform the King with Sending about what happened, especially that they used druid's tree teleportation to get paladins from Mario's order to help in the village. They didn't get an answer right away but he did that thank them through a mage later. When they got to the de Albarate mansion, they introduced themselves as royalty and that they wanted to see Vittoria de Albarate. She was the Lady of the house, which could mean a lot of things. They were escorted right to her, instead of her father. This was also the moment that Mario, upon seeing her for the "first" time, fell in love (sweating palms, everybody around him was muted, he heard his own heart, etc). The feeling was mutual as it would seem. However, her size and looks revealed a very sad tale. Since she had to give birth at age 12, she stopped growing past a certain point. Her body can't keep up with adult stuff and she is frail and weak. She is indeed a beauty amongst the best. The group decided to leave them to talk alone, especially when Scarlett spilled that Gianetta wanted to kill Mario. Vittoria knew that this might have happened but was happy that everybody is safe. She knew that her daughter blames Mario for the state that her mother is in. They separated into two groups in the garden. One was Mario, Vittoria and two guards and the rest of the party was further away. After a long talk, they saw shadows. Suddenly giant beasts fell down to the ground - wyverns. More wild than those in the capital. However, there were no knights upon them. Dragonborn looking humanoids jumped down wielding weapons. Half red dragons. And there might be even more of them since only 4 wyverns landed at the estate. Sixteen more went to the town.

 

[Havoc]

All combat session. Elhaeltôr joined when the dragon showed up.

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Chapter XII

Session 91: Odds Not in Favour

This was all combat. First what happened was that four out of the twenty wyverns landed in the gardens. From their backs, eight half dragons jumped down. The rest of the enemy flew into the city. The enemies wore heavy armor and wielded glaives. Elhaeltôr (NPC) used his powers to Misty Step to the woman and Dimension Door her out for a mile. First round, the half dragons butchered two knights that were escorting. The party then attacked mainly the wyverns. Other household knights were far. Half of them joined, the rest failed their rolls and stayed. Bad. The party then found out that the half dragons are not only immune to fire, but they can also breathe fire and can deal a lot of damage (making three attacks). The second turn, the group heard a far away dragon roar. Something big was coming. The next turn sunbeam from the druid and high DPS took out more wyverns. One of four escaped. The group then focused the half dragons. Balasar and Mario were hit the most. During the third round, the dragonborn used his shout nearly identical to the incoming dragon's one. This terrified some of the enemies. The fight continued and over half of the half dragons were dead or ran away. The dragon showed up on turn four and it rolled high on the initiative. One breath fire and the party was hit for 74 fire damage. Elhaeltôr also showed up using his Steel Wind Strike and appearing back into combat. The household knights ALL failed their fear rolls, it was turning bad. On the fourth round, Balasar was down Mario also but was saved with magic from the druid. However, the dragon used his Legendary Action to hit him critically and he fell down again. At the start of the fifth round, Balasar was dead. At the end of it, Mario died. Nobody had Revivify, so they were dead-dead, out of combat. The party saw more wyverns coming their way but it was from the west, not the south. The next round it was obvious that these were the wyvern knights from the capital. The dragon did a lot of damage. All of the half dragons dead. The sixth round she tried to escape. However, Elhaeltôr used his Forcecage to stop her from running away. She was however over 200 feet above the ground. They needed a good plan. The next round, the dragon used Invisibility. The wyvern knights appeared asking questions, one of them even introduced himself as Captain Graham. The party explained where the dragon is so they flew upwards. However, the next round, the dragon used Dimension Door to escape the Forcecage and was now about 780 feet from the party. It was very fast. The knight could follow but they far away. The group tried to think of something, however, the dragon casted another Invisibility on herself and flew away. The party had to do something about the bodies of their friends.

Oh, and important note. The dragon they fought here is roughly bigger than Frirdayn or Lord Magmos, so it's just an adult. Smaller than the one who burned the village.

Screenshots near the end of combat:

Spoiler

One moment they are all alive.

The second two died

 

[Nahel]

That was hardcore. ..How did the party take it ?

 

[Havoc]

That was hardcore. ..How did the party take it ?

Well, our druid is new to RPGs so this was her first time seeing other player characters die. She almost cried after the session. The rest are veteran players, so they just laugh it off but all saw the mistakes they made - they didn't take the minions seriously and thought they can take on the dragon with his minions.