Krod

...This isn't over ! I'm going to search the area... What ? Chanting ? Coming from where ?   [Killian, Lairion and Krod search the cathedral for signs of what is going on and discover chanting coming from beneath the alter.]   I knew we weren't finished yet. Somehow we've got to get underneath this. Killian has tried moving it with sheer strength to no avail, Lairion too and I can't find a mechanism or lever anywhere. Perhaps looking at this from a different angle might yield different results. This is where my skill in masonry will come in useful... Damn it ! This there's no time for this ! I'll fix it once we've stopped the unmaking of reality as a penance !   [Krod casts 2nd level shatter on the stone alter, cracking the solid stone revealing an entrance leading down to the cathedrals lower levels.]   Looks like a spiral staircase leads down to the lower levels of the cathedral. It's as I feared, there's more to this than just a brief encounter with priestess Jalena. Note: The entrance beneath the alter will be something I'd look at at a later date after thoroughly looking and finding no mechanism for entrance to it. I also theorize that the entrance has been warded in such a way that only certain people can pass through it. An interesting method of security and one i'd like to adapt myself.   Argh ! More Traps ! Why !?   At the base spiral staircase the chanting is louder...we're on the right path. The staircase opens out into a corridor that leads to a central circular chamber. What we are confronted with is not a sight we will forget anytime soon. Upon the walls are exquisite tapestries that are becoming threadbare. I take this as a sign that we are running out of time. In the circular chamber are five young boys barely out of their teens lost in trance and prayer. Each of them stands at the point of a pentagram that glows in the central circular chamber. Beyond the chamber is Priestess Jalena. She has in her hand The Silver Spindle and starts to create patterns as if weaving magic. Wary of the boys we start to approach her but before we can apprehend her and stop this madness, the weave that she conjured seams its way into each one of the boys. All five of them snap theirs heads in our direction. Damn you ! Vile creature !... We can't hurt them, we've got to save them and I tell the others they should do the same. Note: Jalena is in possession of an artifact known as The Silver Spindle and is using it's magic to use weaves from the black loom. Eldrin has mentioned the artifact and it's importance. I think if we can get it from her, it might limit her powers. The frayed tapestries around the chamber are steadily becoming less and less as time goes on. I feel this is our clock. Perhaps there is a way to fix them as well.   [Lairion casts 2nd level Bane on the five acolytes. Krod casts 3rd level hypnotic pattern catching the boys and incapacitating them, taking them out of combat. Killian casts 2nd level Misty Step to teleport past the acolytes and move his position closer to Priestess Jalena and engage her in melee. Killian, Lairion and Krod all engage Jalena afterwards. After a few rounds of combat. Priestess Jalena taking damage from all three members of the party and not having back up from the five acolytes, she is brought to her knees having previously been wounded.]   Finally the mighty Priestess brought low! Perhaps now we can wrestle for control of the situation... Wait ! Something is wrong ! By the Gods no ! What the !?...   [Upon defeat Priestess Jalena utters an infernal incantation. The five acolytes explode and coat the room with their blood. All tapestries soaked and the floor a sea of red. Some of the entrails coagulate around Priestess Jalena while she's on the floor and with her incantation she reincarnates into a new form. Killian, Lairion and Krod engage in combat once more.]   Nooooooo! Damn her and her infernal prayer ! More innocents lost !   Note: Her new form is covered in runic ritualistic scaring, exposed wounds and completely warped features. This incarnation of the former priestess has submitted her mortal coil to the murder god known as Baal. With the discovery of the cultist basement in the town and the writings and scriptures we've studied, there's no doubt in my mind this betrayal has been planned for a long time. It can't be a coincidence. Before her reincarnation she mentioned the orphanage Killian, our old friend Dolen and I grew up in. An orphanage that no one knows what happened too all those years ago. Whether she is speaking for another or she is knowledgeable of the events that transpired is another matter. Twisting facts to suit theories in this instance would not be prudent.   [Killian, Lairion and Krod engage the newly transformed Priestess Jalena. Lairion running low on HP cast 2nd level Cure Wounds, Krod casts 1st level Sanctuary, heals with a Superior Healing Potion and studies the priestesses new form, discovering the creature has the following Damage Resistances to the following Necrotic, Psychic, Radiant; Bludgeoning, Piercing and Slashing damage from non-magical sources. Killian heals with a Superior Healing Potion. After a serires of melee and spell attacks Krod is knocked down, Killian chipping away at the enemy is a few Hit Points away from being the same way. Lairion using his magical bow and fires arrows, overcoming the innate magical resistances into the priestess finally bringing the deadly foe down.]   Thank the Gods! Whatever that thing is, it's dead! But we're not out the woods yet! Why are the tapestries still unraveling, have we not restored balance. I have a feeling the tapestries are the key. If we don't repair them soon who knows what the consequences they will bring us and the world of Ashien itself... -Note- Upon Priestess Jalena's body are the following 1. The Codex of Unraveling Stars (now glowing with infernal script). Within the Codex is a ritual to mend veil of reality. Having only a few hours of knowledge of the practices of the order of celestial weavers. Invoking a ritual of this magnitude incorrectly will have dire consequences. Its a good thing I've got two holy men to help... 2. A Bloodied Tapestry. This tapestry must have some significance, three sacred constellations that appear to be misaligned. The cosmic weave is being torn. I wonder if somehow realigning the constellations may help the tear ? 3. A Shattered Silver Thread. (pulsing weakly). The thread itself must be whats left of the Silver Spindle, its seems that the threads magic is waning without the spindle. The Silver Spindle is an important artifact and clearly hold immense magical properties. I hope its not lost I'd love the opportunity to examine and possibly work with such a relic... and of course mend a tear in the fabric of reality.   ... So what in the various hell's do we do now !

... So this is the thanks we get for sorting out another problem. I think we should just start charging for our services like true mercenaries. Imbeciles! Most of the animosity is coming from the blacksmith and everyone is just jumping on the band wagon. Thankfully the village elder is on our side and thanks to Killian and his amazing performance, he's won them over. I didn't think wiping out a village would be good for our reputation. Now that the villagers have come round we are presented with a small feast for our efforts in the mountains and given a new challenge. The Herbalist has gone missing and for this town to continue autonomously she needs to be found. Whilst everyone is busy, I go find the blacksmith. Barrick his name is. I want to know why he is so hostile towards us. Turns out, he's just sick of the main town of Rel leaving the outside villages to their own preservation's. So to remedy this, I spend the night with him at his forge. -Note-Barrick has some rudimentary skills as a smith and his efficiency is impressive. I've learnt a few tips and skills from him that I intend to apply to my own work. Being able to streamline the general smiting process is a boon I can utilize for the majority of my work. As sign of goodwill and mending the bridges, I also do the same for him.   Killian, Lairion and I set out North West into the woods where the herbalist was last seen. Apparently she frequents the wooded area often and for her to go missing is unusual. But, due to the recent Kobold activity, it is likely that something is afoot. About 2-3 hours into the woods yields no results. Not even a trace! We all gather our thoughts and decide what to do next. At that moment the decision is made for us...wolves!   [Two packs of wolves - 1 from the North and 1 from the South move in to attack the party.]   I've never seen wolves this organised before. The pack is too large! What the hell is that?   [A Werewolf emerges with two other wolves and joins the battle. Killian and Lairion are swarmed by the first pack and Krod is swarmed by the second. The sheer volume of creatures is overwhelming for the party. Killian has the idea to slay the werewolf and hopefully disperse the packs.]   How are we going to survive this? There's too many! Great idea Killian! Kill the Alpha!   [Killian and Krod focus their attacks on the werewolf , whilst Lairion continues to attack the pack. After the pack fell Lairion, and then Krod, Killian manages to land the final blow as the werewolf begins it's retreat.]   I can't believe we survived that! I actually thought it was going to be an easy fight as well. That'll teach me to underestimate generic creatures. Let's see if we can determine who this bastard is... I don't believe this! It's Barrick! -Note- I'm not well taught in medicine or biology, and I don't know what to derive from this encounter. I'm at a loss for words. I do know on thing, I'm going to be taking some blood. Lycanthropy seems to be a disease that I need to find a cure for. Especially after our first encounter in Blazingdell with Theli's poor boy who became a Wererat. Its not prevalent but having a cure wouldn't hurt either.   Killian, Lairian and I decide to burn and bury the body. Better that the Smith go missing than revealing to the village that he's been the cause of their problems. I don't like the idea but it's the lesser of two evils. We decide to move just a bit further on, tracking where the werewolf might have come from to find signs of the missing herbalist. Sure enough, after ten minutes, we find her beneath a fallen tree. I can tell that the battle previous has taken it's toll on my colleagues. For some reason, they're confused about how to heal her. Turns out the tree had broken her leg. After two minutes of them bickering and her bleeding out, I decide to shove my way in between the two of them and heal her. Fools! The women's bleeding out!   Elowin the herbalist thanks us for our help and provides bountiful rewards in the form of potions. I'd love to know how to concoct these myself but I understand that this is her livelihood and the recipes she has learned have been passed down through her family. I allow Killian to do his usual spiel and hint at the discovery of a werewolf. She seems to know as much as we do. -Note- The reward granted to us by the Herbalist Elowin; 1. Potion of Healing x3 2. Antitoxin x2 3. Potion of Greater Healing 4. Potion of Barkskin 5. Potion of Vitality   Incredible, I've never seen anything like that before!   The Blood Moon Eclipse- a sign of ill omen! When the veil of the cosmic tapestry is at it's most vulnerable and the power black loom starts to unmake reality. Apparently, not many know this prophecy, but those who do, see it as the first step towards the end. According to Elowin, we need to seek out the elder Thelwin of the celestial weavers.   The eclipse stays in the sky for a good hour before it passes. We couldn't help but notice the sudden stillness in the world. No bird song, no breeze, no rustling of the trees. On our way back to Rel we shall go to the Observatory and try to learn more about what's going on. Killian and Lairion take Elowin back to the village while I sneak off to the forge. I want to know if there's anything out of place in Barricks workshop. -Note- While the village is distracted with it's herbalists return, amble opportunity is given to me to have a thorough investigation. But I turn up nothing, except a bloody shirt with clear claw markings. This just confirms what we already know. I don't think Barrick was a bad man, so I decide to take the shirt and leave everything as it was. A note was also handed to my colleagues as I was off investigating the forge. The note appears to be from an anonymous source that inform us the assassin known as Silent Whisper passed through here heading towards Rel about 5 days ago. I hope nothing has happened in Rel whilst we've been gone?   The observatory is a fascinating structure. The white marble stone is cleanly cut and smooth and in bedded within it are veins of gold that reflect the light as if the structure itself shone like the stars. A simple password allows us to enter through the front door. A Great chamber on the inside of the structure houses a clockwork orrery at it's centre. Along the walls are shelves of books and dusty toombs. In the far corner of the room we see him sitting in a chair, Elder Thelwin. Before we can even introduce ourselves, he speaks like a man possessed, his eye fogged over and white and reels off a prophecy to do with the cosmic tapestry - that the veil between worlds is being ripped open. The end of days. He tells us to seek out preistess Jalena. Apparently her research on what is known as the black loom, may yield promise and our first steps in this investigation to prevent the coming events. -Note- This observatory contains a mountain of knowledge about the universe. I need to come back here to study it further - I'm pressed for time at this moment as Thelwin says there's urgency involved with the coming of this eclipse. From what Thelwin tells us about the black loom, we're all suspicious of Jalena and her research into it. I think we need to have a discussion when we get back to Rel. The simple magical password the stops unwanted entry is a fantastic idea. An ingenious deterrent against those less the inclined to apply some forethought to situation... Killian wanting to take something comes to mind.   Upon entry into Rel, the town has a atmosphere to it. The people seem very much on edge and rumor is spreading like wildfire. I'd hazard a guess that they don't know the true ramifications of the eclipse but take it as a bad sign anyway. -Note-Killian informs us that the whispers throughout the town suggest that Priestess Jalena has hosted an emergency congregation and spouting suspicious prayers due to the events transpired. "Seek the Black Loom. Weave destiny anew". We need to head there as soon as possible.   We report to the mages guild to hand over our findings to do with the dragon in Mount Gorgan. Thankfully they received our message about what had been going on in the mountains and were expecting us. -Note- Apparently asking to be part of the mages guild is a joke to them. I don't know why we are to receive such animosity from them. Have we not helped? Have we earned their time? I just want to further my magical aptitude. Knowledge should be shared, not hoarded. Fools! I hope they come begging to me to make their Staffs, wands and focuses. I hope when their tower crumbles and they come begging to me to repair it. In fact you know what...   [Krod prepares to cast 3rd level shatter and is stopped by Killian.]   We head to the Cathedral of the order of celestial weavers to inquire with Priestess Jalena about the event of the eclipse. The Cathedral is empty except for her at the alter and two acolytes either side of her in worship. I don't need to look at my companions to know we're all on the same page for this one. We all delicately question the events that have transpired after the eclipse and her intentions going forward. We also have our questions about her study on the black loom. Without prompting she has given up the game. She starts preaching about how we should embrace the end of all things for there are ways for the worthy to ascend. -Note-Despite her dogmatic rhetoric she does give us actual names to follow-up on. Perhaps their non-religious view could provide an actual grounded explanation as to whats happening or even where to start? Rune-Scribe Marlowe - Scholar of Forbidden Texts, in the Guilded Quill. Veyna - Keeper of Arcane Relics, in the Eternal Library. My telepathy will only allow for so much information to be revealed as I know this woman has a strong mind and possible psychic defenses. I believe I have theory that may work. A crude method of asking the right questions while her surface thoughts are being read can allow for an emotion to emerge within a response. This should tell me if shes holding something back in response to our questioning.   [As Killian, Lairion and Krod begin to leave the cathedral, Priestess and her two acolytes prepare for an attack. All parties enter combat. The two acolytes engage Lairion and Krod. Killian engages Priestess Jalena. The two acolytes undergo a transformation to become undead creatures. Lairion turns undead. Krod uses his wand of lightening to strike one of the acolytes and the Priestess while Killian continues to engage in Melee. Priestess Jalena makes her escape leaving the others to finish the job. ]              

[Killian and Lairion continue to engage the shadowy figure whilst Krod engages the giant mimic. Killian produces the ghost gem in an attempt to capture the spectre and succeeds]   Ingenious! Absolutely ingenious! You know I actually forgot he had that. It'll be interesting to see how we can utilise this in the future. Note- The composition of the ghost gem only allows for capture and not for control. An attempt to summon the spectre again will have to be a last resort, because the creature within the gem retains it's memories and we were the enemy.   A brief encounter with a farm lady on the outskirts of the hamlet revealed very little other than she is a drunk and that her livestock is being poached. I'm not getting involved with this one, I have no time for scum. It's down to Killian and Lairion - let's hope they get the information they want.   Searching the remains of the mimic doesn't yield much in the way of resources. A few small trinkets here and there, but ever little helps in this journey. After a good half days travel from the ambush site, we come across a hamlet. A maximum of about six buildings - most of them being farms. All of which seem to be currently in the process of being vacated. After wandering around we come across a merchant selling strange meats. I approach and enquire about the dragon in the mountains. Upon further investigation this man is not an official merchant and decide to use our new found authority to loosen his tongue. After which he decides to divulge a lot more information about what has been happening. The dragon is terrorising the hamlet , which compromises things as our task was just to investigate if the rumors were true. Then it is revealed that the dragon is simply reacting to the livestock - possibly for food and it is actually a group of Kobolds that are terrorising the surrounding areas. Thanks to this information we have an idea of what to do. I gently persuade the chap to move his wares elsewhere as we don't operate with complete authority. He is more than willing... until the other two get involved.   After conferring with Killian and Lairion, we decide to create a hide on the outskirts of the village near the base of the mountain to identify the main source of the problem. Note- creating the hide takes the rest of the day to complete - approx four hours. A rudimentary design overall but one to note for the future, especially with the introduction and adaptation of magical wards.   [Krod sleeps all the way through the night as he had stayed awake the previous night crafting the bow "Rock branches, true heart". Killian and Lairion alternate watches. On the transitional period between watches when both are awake, early hours of the morning, they spot a party of Kobolds raiding the hamlet, confirming the information that was given to us.]   I feel a lot better today. After conferring with the others, we decide to head up the mountain and confront the kobolds and possibly the dragon. Our original task was to confirm the dragon sightings for the wizards enclave. This goes beyond the writ. However I think we have an obligation to the town of Rel to make sure the dragon will not be a threat. Note- Our combined knowledge of dragons suggests they can be reasoned with. Their nature is fickle, but they are very intelligent. Personally I don't want to engage the dragon. Reasoning with it will have it's own set of challenges. Let's hope it doesn't get that far.   God's the mountains are treacherous!   Fascinating! What are these markings? It's in draconic! ...ahhhh!   [Krod triggers a magical trap and plummets into a pit and is silenced. Killian and Lairion continue up the mountain a short way, not realising that Krod is actually a magical image being played by a kobold. Upon discovering this the kobold gets away and krod rejoins them. However, their presence is now revealed.]   Near the summit, a cave leads into the mountain itself. We have to risk going forth to get out of the conditions outside. Naturally we look for traps. Instead we come across the kobold clan. We approach in peace hoping not to start a fight. Graknar, their leader, is too fanatical to reason with. Everytime we try to ascertain what the dragon is here for and how we can help, so as to not cause harm elsewhere, we are brushed aside with his beliefs in this dragon. Note- The dragon in question we discover is a red dragon called Ignathraxis. The kobold worship Ignathraxis as a God. According to legend there is a great treasure buried beneath the lands of Mount Gorgan. Dragons already accumulate vast hordes of treasure. This dragon is looking for something else, maybe that's our bargaining chip if we come across it.   Blast it all! They don't want to listen, fine! Let's wipe these kobolds away.   [Killian, Lairion and Krod engage the party of kobolds in combat. Krod uses a 2nd level web spell to ensnare the majority, while Killian and Lairion engage in melee. Killian teleports to engage Graknar the leader, hoping to end the fight quickly by killing the leader. Lairion engages at range, picking off a few at a time. Krod encounters another small party coming from the west and engages by using 1st level Thunderwave, catching all of them in it's reach. Killian and Lairion finish off the remaining, including Graknor himself.]   Well that wasn't fun! Let's just hope we don't have to fight a dragon now. I think we should head back and report what we've found. At least now the kobolds are one less problem to deal with. A dragon is beyond us. Note- contents of the remains of the kobolds; -Rot Grub Pot x2. The kobold throws a clay pot into a 5-foot-square space within 20 feet of it, and it breaks open on impact. A swarm of rot grubs emerges from the shattered pot and remains a hazard in that square. -Scorpion on a Stick x2. The kobold makes a melee attack with a scorpion tied to the end of a 5-foot-long pole. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 1 piercing damage, and the target must make a DC 9 Constitution saving throw, taking 4 (1d8) poison damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one. -Skunk in a Cage x2. The kobold releases a skunk into an unoccupied space within 5 feet of it. The skunk has a walking speed of 20 feet, AC 10, 1 hit point, and no effective attacks. It rolls initiative and, on its turn, uses its action to spray musk at a random creature within 5 feet of it. The target must make a DC 9 Constitution saving throw. On a failed save, the target retches and can’t take actions for 1 minute. The target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success. A creature that doesn’t need to breathe or is immune to poison automatically succeeds on the saving throw. Once the skunk has sprayed its musk, it can’t do so again until it finishes a short or long rest. -Wasp Nest in a Bag x2. The kobold throws a small bag into a 5-foot-square space within 20 feet of it. A swarm of insects (wasps) with 11 hit points emerges from the bag and rolls initiative. At the end of each of the swarm’s turns, there’s a 50 percent chance that the swarm disperses. -Basket of Centipedes x2. The kobold throws a small basket into a 5-foot-square space within 20 feet of it. A swarm of insects (centipedes) with 11 hit points emerges from the basket and rolls initiative. At the end of each of the swarm’s turns, there’s a 50 percent chance that the swarm disperses. (Kobolds make the most obscure devices and traps. on the outside they appear as useful as childrens toys or minor hazards but I can't deny the ingenuity it took to create such a contraption. Thankfully having two of each "device" allows for a field test to be carried out one and an improvements to be made on the other). -Alchemist’s Fire. -Acid. (Excellent both can be used as ammunition as part of the catapult spell I cast) -Coins: 120 gp and 250 sp in a mix of tarnished coins found in a pouch on Graknar or hidden in a kobold's pack. -Jewelry: A small ruby worth 50 gp, likely an offering to Ignathraxis. Trinkets: A bronze statuette of a dragon (10 gp). A crude idol made of melted coins, shaped into a dragon's likeness (5 gp). -Potion of Fire Resistance. -Smoldering Scimitar (Uncommon): A scimitar with a faint ember-like glow. When drawn, it produces harmless smoke. Deals an extra 1 fire damage on a hit. (One of the other two should make use of this in combat, a minor magical property but has potential to be enhanced and replicated). -A Bag of Sticky Goo: Can be thrown up to 20 feet to create difficult terrain in a 10-foot square (lasts 1 minute). -A Bottle of Screeching Powder: When thrown, creatures within 5 feet must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or be deafened for 1 minute. (The items here provide a bit more utility than the other contraptions, defiantly want to discover how to replicate these items for the future). -Basic climbing gear and pitons. (Handy for navigating the mountain). -A crude map of Mount Gorgon with draconic runes marking the lair. (The draconic symbols being areas of impotance such as traps). -Journal of Graknar: A weathered notebook filled with draconic prayers, ramblings about Ignathraxis, and mentions of "the treasure within the mountain."(A good find to prove the findings within the mountain, no doubt the treasure refers to whatever the dragon is looking for or it already existing hoard). -Graknar’s Talisman (Wondrous): A dragon-shaped amulet made of obsidian. Once per day, the wearer can cast Hellish Rebuke (DC 13) as a reaction when they take damage. (The spell produced by the talisman is good as a reprisal to an attack, very useful for usage in melee combat).   We make our way back down the mountain feeling somewhat relieved. I think further investigation into the mystery treasure is required to get to the bottom of this. That's interesting - the villages have come back! That's interesting - they're armed! Oh what now?

...The robed figure who approaches us, addresses themselves as Eldrick. If I was to make a guess by their demeanor I'd say they were the custodian of Thunderfall hideaway. Eldrick welcomes us warmly and before he guides us around the grounds he asks us for our help in the gardens. It turns out he's got a pest problem and after everything we've been through, I think we can deal with pests.   [Killian, Lairion and Krod are led by Eldrick to the gardens to discover the pest problem as a hive of giant wasps. The wasps attack the group on sight.]   ...Ahh these bloody wasps...they sting like a ...   ...they're just not stopping! Where are they coming from. The hive can't be that big!   [Lairion uses his channel divinity power to make the hive vulnerable to damage. Krod casts lightening bolt at fourth level at the hive, doubling the damage.]   ...they're coming from the hive! We've got to destroy the hive!   [Killian makes the final blow on the hive stopping the giant wasps from re-spawning and the group finish off what's left of the wasps.]   Giant wasps! That's a new one on me! I wonder if the magic of Thunderfall hideaway influenced their growth? Either way, we've done what Eldrick tasked us with. I'm hoping it's enough in his eyes as we inherited the hideaway by chance. Note - Searching the hive for what remains, bears some unusual items. Fascinating how the nature of the wasps has influenced the items. It'll be interesting to see if other creatures have the same magical influence on mundane items. Contents of the hive: -Hivecaller Amulet Wondrous item, rare This amulet is fashioned from a piece of the nest, complete with hexagonal patterns and buzzing energy. Once per long rest, you can use an action to summon a swarm of insects (wasps) as per the Conjure Animals spell. The swarm remains friendly to you and obeys your commands, persisting for up to 1 hour or until it is reduced to 0 hit points.   -Amber Prison Stone Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement) This gemstone holds a preserved, miniature wasp within solid amber. Once per day, you can use an action to crush the stone and cast Hold Monster on a creature within 60 feet. The spell has a save DC of 15. The stone then reforms over the next 24 hours, regaining its magic at dawn.     -Vial of Wasp Essence Potion, uncommon This potion contains a swirling, amber liquid infused with the essence of the wasps. When you drink it, you gain resistance to poison damage and advantage on saving throws against the poisoned condition for 1 hour. Additionally, your melee attacks deal an extra 1d4 poison damage for the duration.   -Poisoner's Band Ring, uncommon (requires attunement) A ring made from the venom sacs of several giant wasps. While attuned, you can coat a weapon with poison as a bonus action. The next time you hit a creature with this weapon, it takes an extra 2d6 poison damage. You can use this effect three times, and the ring regains all expended uses after a long rest. Additionally, you have proficiency with the Poisoner’s Kit while wearing this ring.   After that so-called extermination in the garden, Eldrick invites us into the kitchen area of the main complex. There is an air about the house...almost as if it's waiting. Everything has it's place - almost as if it's staged! But Eldrick says the house itself is ready to respond to it's owners commands. All three of us are presented with a hearty stew! Simple but nourishing! As we eat, Eldrick regales us with the history of Thunderfall hideaway. We do know some of the history after our research in the eternal library, but the custodian of the house will have the true story. Note - Lairion asks for the stews recipe and I agree it's nourishment is without fault. Possibly magical in nature. But Eldrick assures us that the house will provide other benefits over time that we are to discover ourselves. I find that intriguing and want to know more.   ...Now that we've finished, Eldrick takes us on a tour of the house. We move from the kitchen to the main hall and the scale of this house is vast. Along the ground floor there appears to be a drawing room. Decorated in a very simple fashion; a couple of chairs, a desk and an assortment of books. There is also a main living space to entertain guests along with the kitchen we just left. A basic, clean and functional bathroom. A large communal Hall for hosting guests - I don't think we will, but the future is uncertain. Oft the communal hall is vast armory, housing suits of armor on manikins and weapons displayed upon the walls. Glass cases lay scattered throughout ready for weapons and items of importance to be displayed. As we head to the first floor, this is where the house starts to feel more alive! Eldrick leads us to what can only be described as a war room...a giant desk at it's centre, surrounded by maps and charts. This will become very useful as we start going out into the world, planning ahead. Off the war room is another bathroom! This time, a bit more fancy, still very clean and functional. As we move along the first floor, there are three rooms that Eldrick describes as rooms of our designation. A confusing statement, but it is explained that the house will turn the room into a space we desire it to be. Naturally I can't help think of having my own workshop, but I won't be selfish. Let's see what the rest of the house has to offer and what my companions wish. As we move past the three yet to be made rooms, we are met by a plethora of knowledge in what can only be described as a small library. The tomes and books in this library I've been informed by Eldrick are magical, and that the house shares it's knowledge with the eternal library. Apparently the book keepers of the eternal library have had an arrangement of the custodians of the hideaway to transfer knowledge from the eternal library to the Thunderfall library. Immediately, I want this connection established. There is so much we can learn. The others are not so excited! Understandable! I'm the one that wishes to learn more.   The second and final floor of the hideaway houses our bedrooms. Luxurious but not ostentatious. Four poster bed, a fire place, a study desk, an assortment of fabrics and rugs and a wardrobe. This is mirrored in all three rooms and what is brilliant is that all three have en-suites, which means I don't have to share with Killian. His beauty routine drives me crazy. Also on this floor, there are three more undesignated rooms. It dawns on me that our options are vast indeed. I can't help but wish for my workshop. Thankfully we are all in agreement and Killian and Lairion give me their blessing. I ask Eldrick for an arcane workshop. Eldrick instructs me to place my hand upon the door and instruct the house to provide what I desire this room to be. We're all met with a series of clanging noises and stressed wood as the room transforms. A sigil on the door appears of a mortar and pestal and Eldrick tells me to enter. I am met with the most grandest of sights. The dimensions of the room have been magically altered to house three work stations. The first is a large flat table covered in runes and crystals and a hue of magic surrounds it. There's enough room on this table to house equipment and weapons. I guess that this is an enchantment table, enabling me to rework the magical properties of items. The second is a grand desk filled with an assortment of inks, quills and parchments. The different inks and quills feel as if they are giving off properties when scribing the scrolls, that will come to fruition. The second table appears to be a study area to scribe magical scrolls. The third and final table in the far corner of the room has a number of instruments used to extract, refine and utilise alchemist ingredients. Above the bench are racks of jars. Some of which contain some ingredients and upon looking closely, the rack is protected by a magical field that keeps the ingredients preserved. This would appear to be an alchemy station used to craft potions and utilising reagents.   ...words cannot describe my excitement at this moment in time, so much so, that my companions already decide what the next room will be before I realise what they have said. A good idea, a training room! This will work alongside my work station, testing out possible weapons before used in the wild.   Killian takes the lead on this one. Eldrick gives him the same instructions he gave to me. He places his hand upon the door and this time a sigil of a sword and shield appears. We hear the clanging and bashing until the room has been transformed. When we enter we are greeted by racks of training dummies. Simple weapons surround the room allowing practice in melee and ranged combat. There is even an area for spell casting. At the far end of the room, we come across what can only be described as an arena. But this isn't just some simple arena, we can adapt the conditions and environments of the arena in which to train in, such as deserts or tundra. When the arena is in use, there will be a red rune above the front of the door to give warning to those who enter...a nice safety feature! In case of any injury, the training room comes equipped with a small healing station.   ...good work chaps!   I can't help but see the flaw in my first request. I have the means to work with magic, but not the means to work with the material. So I plead Killian and Lairion for one more room. An engineering workshop! Thankfully they both agree. It is nice to know that my companions have faith in me, my abilities! Once again I place my hand upon the final door and the room shifts. This time a sigil of a hammer and anvil appear. I lead the way in and what I see sends me back to my time living with Boris, my mentor. At the centre of the room is an enormous work bench with arcane sigils used for precision measurements. A secondary desk lies next to it adorned with blueprints and room to house more. It has a magical quality on it allowing blueprints to appear in 3D. Along the walls are an assortment of tools that have minor but convenient enchantments and materials of all manor. Basic for now! I feel I will have to add more to this workshop. A lathe and carving station, a forge and anvil and finally a work station I have never seen before. I'd hazard a guess that the specialised tools that it contains are used on constructs maintaining their function and upgrading their existing properties. I think I need to bring Matilda in here and see what can be improved. She's an effective machine but any improvement isn't a bad thing.   Note - I've decided to use this opportunity and work throughout the night.It's time to see if I can turn Rotbranches' true heart into it's bow variant. There are many plans I have in mind. This one will be the most useful for now.   We all meet in the kitchen the next morning and Killian would like to continue our work in the town of Rel. Even though I've been given the means to fulfill my lies goals, I agree that becoming complacent is not our way. As a group decision we decide to head towards the mountains and look for evidence of a dragon. Note - En route I gift Lairion with the bow and spend the rest of my journey sitting on top of Matilda. I didn't get a lot of sleep and something tells me I'm going to pay the price for that but I'm ex-tactic with the outcome of my work.   It's a nice day on the road having my companions rested fully and safely for once in four months. We're in good spirits!   ... this looks interesting!   [Killian, Lairion and Krod travel through a valley towards the mountains and are met with an enormous carriage with horses attached to it, but with no occupants. Krod goes up once side of the valley with Matilda. Lairion travels moves adjacent on the opposite side. Killian moves up the centre. Once investigated, it is revealed that the cart is actually a giant mimic]   Blast it all! Why can't the roads ever be easy? At least it's just one enemy this time and we have it surrounded...wait what is that?   [A black spectral figure spawns next to Krod and attacks him. The figure causes Killian and Lairion to become frightened and then teleports to Lairion and attacks him.]   How in all the hell's do we kill this thing and why is it here?...      

[Killian makes his way to the edge of the crevasse and casts level 2 Misty Step to reach the other side and engages the enemy wizard in melee combat. Lairion engages the other bandit across the crevasse in ranged combat with his bow. Krod uses the Wand of animate dead to resurrect two of the fallen bandits as reanimated skeletons]   ... excellent! Killian's managed to get to the other side. Engaging the enemy wizard in melee will help us not suffer another fireball to the face.   Ugh! I know this will upset Lairion but needs must... I find no joy in this but now I can use these two skeletons as cover and weapons to engage with.   [Krod moves the newly animated skeletons towards the edge and commands them to fire their cross-bows at the last two enemies. Lairion continues to fire his bow from range. Killian manages to pull off a shove and trip attack against the enemy wizard. Whilst the wizard is prone, he lands the final blow with his long sword and cuts the wizards head off. After the killing blow Killian engages the final bandit and ends the battle]   I hate to boost his ego any further but I have to admit that final blow was one for the history books... Right now we need to try and cross the crevasse without falling in... Oh Gods! Why am I doing this?   [Krod throws his grappling hook across to Killian and he ties the hook securely to a rock as a life line. Krod then makes his way across using the ropes to traverse the gap. This endeavour almost failed, but he makes it to the other side]   Right! Time to see who this bloody wizard was! Some interesting belongings...   ...oh ok that's helpful. No insignia, no documents and not a clue why they are down here...Dammit! -Note- the remains of the wizard are as follows: -A block of red wax which bears the impression of a strange key. -Magic black leather glove. Interesting to find a mold of a key to an unknown lock, the enemy wizard having no association with any organisation known to us. When I get some spare time, I shall make a mold of this key. We might need it in the future, especially if we come across bandits like this again in the future. I suspect the leather glove has magical properties that I will have to investigate later.   Ah a chest! Now that might contain more information about what is going on down here... yes Killian, I will check it for traps!   Blast it! Still no information! However the spoils of our encounter, more than make up for it... I suppose the only thing I can take away from this is to remember the psychic influence placed on these bandits minds. If we come across it again, I know these groups will be linked. -Note- the contents of the chest are as follows: -110 gp -240 sp -Potion of Gaseous Form -Potion of Supreme Healing -Oil of Sharpness -A pewter oil lamp which is missing three gemstones This oil is something I'm not familiar with, however, it does intrigue me. If it is what I think it is, I wonder if I can replicate this process in the future to produce different properties of oil. Despite it's mundane use the function provides me an opportunity to replicate the magical properties of a similar lamp I have already come across, belonging to a certain Orc within the town.   Right! I need to get back across now... Oh great! just leave me hear why don't you. Then again the two of them supporting me is better than just the one... I really need to develop a way of teleporting myself.   This was a lot easier last time... Oh Shit! Ahhhhhhh!   [Krod attempts to cross the gap again using the same technique as before. This time he fails half way across and falls. Killian and Lairion manage to save him in time, but not before Krod takes some damage, being smacked into the side of the crevasse, before being pulled up]   Can we not do that again please! I want to go!   [Killian, Lairion and Krod make their way out of the sewers with the bandits they captured in hand. They make their way to the forest guard headquarters and report in on their findings. After they hand in the bandit, they make their way to the Mayors house and speak to Lady Marielle Tomlin who gave them the quest to uncover both her lost heirloom and to explain the reasons behind the pickpocketing]   I just realised we've come from the sewers. Not very formal when addressing Lady Tomlin. So I shall let Killian take the lead on this one as he is so good with his words. Lady Tomlin thankfully sees through some of Killian's bullshit to the heart of the matter. Hopefully our reputation within Rel is getting a lot more recognition. -Note- I don't normally comment on the reputation within a community but as mentioned in previous entries and our encounter in Blazingdell, gaining favour has never been so important as a resource.   [Killian, Lairion and Krod decide to go back to the Broken Axe Inn to clean up, eat, drink (special reserve wine from the Mayor) and rest for the night]   Food and drink...just what we need after a slog through the sewer. As usual we pay a little extra to Gerra to have our clothes and equipment cleaned. Killian brings out the notices and mentions the assassin Silent Whisper. I think after our engagement in the sewer, we're not quite ready to go after an accomplished assassin just yet. Oh! Interesting! Duror seems to more information about this assassin. It seems in his travels, he has picked up a thing or two. We encourage him to sit with us and share this information with us while he joins us in a glass. -Note-The information Duror knows about The Silent Whisper: Dephine Vess, a half-elf, known far and wide as "The Silent Whisper," is a legendary assassin whose name strikes fear into the hearts of nobles and criminals alike. Her moniker comes from her flawless ability to move unnoticed and leave no trace behind—her victims often described her as a fleeting whisper in the dark. Trained from a young age by a secretive guild known as The Nightblades, Elara specialized in high-profile assassinations, often targeting corrupt nobles and political figures. Her life took a drastic turn after her most infamous contract—the assassination of Lord Fenrick Althorne, a powerful noble with ties to influential merchant guilds and political factions. The killing of Lord Althorne shook the entire region, but this time, something went wrong. Elara was betrayed by her own guild, framed for crimes beyond the contract, and now finds herself hunted by both the law and her former allies.   I think I'll turn in...Now that I have a moment to myself, it's time to identity these unknown items we've acquired.   [Krod identifies the black leather glove as A Sinister Glove (Wondrous Item): While wearing this black leather glove, you become left-handed. In addition, you can use an action to cast the spell Protection from Evil and Good. The glove can't be used this way again until the next dawn. The Protection from Evil and Good spell: Until the spell ends, one willing creature you touch is protected against creatures that are Aberrations, Celestials, Elementals, Fey, Fiends, or Undead. The protection grants several benefits. Creatures of those types have Disadvantage on attack rolls against the target. The target also can’t be possessed by or gain the Charmed or Frightened conditions from them. If the target is already possessed, Charmed, or Frightened by such a creature, the target has Advantage on any new saving throw against the relevant effect. Krod also identifies The Oil of Sharpness (Rare item). This clear, gelatinous oil sparkles with tiny, ultrathin silver shards. The oil can coat one slashing or piercing weapon or up to 5 pieces of slashing or piercing ammunition. Applying the oil takes 1 minute. For 1 hour, the coated item is magical and has a +3 bonus to attack and damage rolls.]   I bid my companions a good morning and inform them of my findings. I think that Killian would make the most out of the Oil of Sharpness. We're all unsure on who should take the glove. Something to think about later. Right now, I have another thing on my mind. The Eldrich ring!   I inform my companions that I'd like to take a visit to the Thunderfall Cascade General Store and speak with Elowin Ironwood about the specifics of the ring Killian purchased for me. As it nearly killed me, I deserve an explanation.   We meet Eldrich Ironwood at the front of the store and I enquire as to where Elowin is. He directs us to the curiosities and oddities section at the back of the store. We all go to the back of the store and meet with Elowin Ironwood. Killian informs her of our escapades, naturally. Right! Time to extract some truth from this Elf.   I can't believe she is actually questioning me... Bloody Elves ! All I want to know, is what it is and she's being condescending and evasive. I think I'll I give her something to think about! ...Don't test me girl!   Arrrggghhh!   [Krod using his new found telepathy attempts to intimidate Elowin through her mind. In response, Elowin reacts by inflicting psychic damage back to Krod with little effort. Killian and Lairion are not wise to what is happening]   Ugh! That was horrible! Can you two please leave? I want a private word with Elowin. -Note- My encounter with Elowin has taught me a valuable lesson about using my gifts wisely. I think it's a good idea to share our story with her, as making allies is more important than making enemies. Thankfully she is patient and understands my impatience as I explain our story to her, without Killians's aid. Thankfully she does reveal the origin of the Eldrich ring. The sentinals - a race that existed before the Gods themselves. Now I know why it almost killed me. I show her all our collected items from when we started this adventure hoping her experience and time on this earth will help glean some information. Interestingly, she draws my attention to the vampiric skull we found beneath the inn in Blazingdell. Her insight errs a warning but doesn't fill in the gaps I am here for. I must study this vampiric skull further to ascertain it's secret.   [Whilst Killian and Lairion wait for Krod they overhear Eldrich Ironwood telling a tale to a child about his adventures and meeting his wife Elowin]   I think it's safe to say I've learned my lesson today and no doubt there'll be more to learn in the future. Why are people so complicated and magic isn't? Anyway moving on, I think it's time we all payed another visit to the Thunderfall Hideaway. It's time we unlocked it's secrets as it is now ours.   Thanks to our research in the eternal library, we've managed to piece together some of the riddles that blocked our entrance. The mystery behind the keystones specifically. -Note- the key to the entrance still remains a mystery, but we're certain the statue that Killian carries is key. The last riddle remains a mystery. Let's hope we don't die trying to solve it.   -Note- Rune sequence Moonstone, Sunstone, Waterstone, Earthstone, Windstone and Firestone. The physical Key riddle solution was The Statue that Killian possesses actually used as a key and the final riddle password was Windchime.   The Thunderfall Hideaway - we finely made it in! I wonder what mysteries lie within these grounds. Definitely needs work. I can't help but feel a magical influence here, surrounding the house, the garden. My companions and I, don't know where to start... Ah! I think the Hideaway has answered for us.   [As Killian, Lairion and Krod enter the Thunderfall Hideaway a robed figure with a long beard and magical staff, from the gardens approaches the party and addresses them in a welcoming manner]

...Argh ! Bloody traps will be the death of us ! I'm pretty sure that our presence has been revealed to all that might be down here now. That doesn't mean we cant be cautious. This junction might be the perfect opportunity for an ambush... Wait a moment Killian, I've got a plan ! Just be ready to engage... Trust me you'll know when that time is...   [Krod communicates telepathically to Killian and Lairion. This is using his recent feat gained called Telepathic. He the casts the 2nd level invisibility to scout ahead]   ... I'm so glad I decided to scout ahead first. There's a bloody firing squad waiting for us. Damn it ! What do I do ?... Ah ! Haha ! Lets see how prepared you all are for this !   [Krod makes his way around the corner of the sewer junction to find 5 hostiles preparing to launch a volley of crossbow bolts. Krod moves up to the group, maintaining a distance of around 20ft. Then casts the 2nd level Web spell catching all hostiles within its effect]   ...Try to keep one of them alive. Its the best way to find out what else is down here ! [Lairion and Killian move around to engage. The hostiles still manage to fire off their volley at the party. Lairion casts the Bane spell at 2nd level affecting 2 out the 4 hostiles targeted with the spell and Killian sends his badger pulled for the bag of tricks into engagement]   ...Well that could've been worse. We've even managed to apprehend one of them too. Now lets question... Oh for Gods sake ! We need to shut this fool up before he alerts anyone else to our presence. My companions look at me with a sense of bewilderment and rightly so. How do we interrogate someone who is bound, gagged won't cooperate without us resorting to torture ? Note-My minor power in Psionics have evolved. My minor power in Telekinetic s haven't grown in strength or range. Instead a new utility has revealed itself to me. I can now use the power of Telepathy... Thank you Boris. Your lessons weren't wasted after all.   ...Somethings wrong here. There's more to these bandits than we first thought. Magic enshrouds their thoughts. I've got a feeling this one here is just the pawn under the control of a much greater threat ?   [Krod attempts to read the mind of the bandit thief but discovers multiple magical barriers blocking his thoughts. Probing the mind as much as possible without causing too much stress. Krod manages to break down the barriers but instead of clear information. Only emotional responses are ascertained]   ...Ugh ! That was exhausting ! At least we now know that the door nearest to us that leads north is a dangerous path. The emotion this bandit gave off was one of fear and concern. The tunnel leading to the south however. A more safer path ? This could be interpreted as safer for him and not for us though ? Note-My new Psionic abilities are still coming into fruition but have already proven to be invaluable. Some limitations exist but I'm intrigued to see what other applications this ability has ?   We all agree to leave the remaining bandit tied up alive. A live prisoner to hand in to the forest guard to support our findings down here would go a long way to cement our new reputation as Ximena's deputy's. My companions agree to go through the door to the north before we venture further into the sewer. I'm still catching my breath. I'm going to let them take the lead on this one. Note-Killian is learning from our adventures, he's spawned another creature from the bag of tricks. A Boar I believe ? He's sending the Boar in first to scout the area out. The limitation of this particular idea is that unlike Lairion's familiar Woe. Killian is unable to see through the eyes of the creature he sends through. I wonder if I could look into crafting such a device. One that can establish a connection from the controlled creature to the one in control of it ?   [The Boar is sent into the room and disappears from sight. The party head into the room to discover a dead end. 3 sewage pipes surround the walls of the chamber, one of which is spewing sewage from it. The foot of the room is submerged in 3 ft of water and 2 piles of refuse stacked in its center]   Lairion takes the lead, followed by Killian. I remain at the back, still gathering myself. There's no sign of the Boar ? Lairion's familiar cannot see anything either, which leaves us the answer. Be it ominous. Whatever is in here, resides beneath the surface of the water. Lairion gracefully perches himself upon one of the drainage pipes in the corner of the chamber. Killian steps into the water, remaining on the edge and makes his way around. I can see he's eyeing up that chest on the pile on refuse in the southwestern corner of the chamber... Do you see that !... That ripple came from below the surface. Damn it ! I think the water is deeper than we first thought ?   [An enormous tentacle erupts from below the surface and attacks the party. Lairion attacks with his bow from range, Killian engages in melee and Krod uses his lightning launcher followed by the wand of lightning bolts]   ...By the Gods ! What in the various hells was that and why is it down here !? I want to know what that was... Right lets see if i can get this bloody thing, Gotcha ! Right come to Krod... Blast it !... Only managed to salvage a small piece of the tentacle. It's about the size of my handaxe but hopefully enough to gleam what it was and if any magical properties can be derived from it ? Note- It's nice to know my companions will help me out in anyway they can after I've failed. Between Killian and I we could've easily pulled this creature from the depths but no, its far more entertaining to watch me struggle. Lairion. Oh yes lets not forget Lairion, after my close failure at telepathic interrogation, that could've damaged and exhausted my mind. Just whimsically casts Zone of Truth, again must be more entertaining to watch me struggle... I shouldn't get too frustrated, I don't always explain my actions and reasoning. I expect them to know what I am doing and help no questions asked. Something to work on I think. Contents of the chest- -2 Copper, 20 Silver, 12 Gold, 1 Platinum -1 book of religious scriptures and prayers worth 25 gp -1 collected writings of a controversial druid worth 25 gp -2 bolts of fine silk worth 200 gp -3 bottles of fine wine worth 30 gp -7 black onyx worth 50 gp each -2 malachite worth 10 gp each -Gold goblet worth 25gp -Bloodstone pair of dice worth 25gp -Ivory goblet worth 25gp -Fur embroidered handkerchief worth 25gp -Cloth-of-gold embroidered handkerchief worth 25gp -2 x potions of Superior healing   The southern passage remains. The emotional response from the bandit suggests this area to be one where he does'nt feel threatened. I check for traps along the way, our experience with them has not been the best. There is a doorway that leads to the west. It seems to be clear ? Killian takes the lead. Oh ! What was that ? Is that blood ? Mmmm ! This just gets more confusing, I thought we were dealing with common thieves here ? Note- A container suspended above the door out of sight is full of blood, of what I don't know ? Possibly an anointment or blessing of some kind before entering the chamber ? Intriguing to say the least. The groups we've come across in our adventures certainly have strange rights that they practice. Thankfully no chemicals or magical properties appear to be infused within the blood. Something worth exploring in the future for my own devices and machinations. What if something was hidden within it ?   [Killian, Lairion lead the way into the next chamber. A giant chasm splits the room in half. 4 enemies lie within better equipped than the group encountered previously. After moving in further and engaging the enemies the party discover that across the chasm to the south hidden out of sight is a spellcaster of some kind]   Why ! Why does there have to be more of them !...   ...Damn it ! Killian get out the way. I don't want to hit you with this !...   ...Wait is that a red bead ?...Fireball ! Everybody get down !   Argh ! That was incredible and Bloody painful ! A fully trained spellcaster poses a huge threat, however they don't seem bothered about harming their own allies. An advantage for us as this will allow us to not get bogged down with the lackeys and cut the head off the snake quicker...

... Despite Killians attempt at negotiations. The thieves don't seem interested, a very curious gamble as we are not restricted by law in the same way as the Forest guard. Perhaps we're not just dealing with common thieves ?   [Lairion casts 1st level Bane spell and engages the group in melee, engaging one of the minions, Killian casts the Toll the Dead cantrip from short range, engaging the minions and the leader and Krod from the opposite side of the engagement casts lightning bolt catching one of the minions and the leader]   ... Are we taking these guys dead or alive... Ahh ! Damn !... Sod it ! We'll worry about the details afterwards...   [Lairion takes down on of the minions and engages the others, Killian re-engages the minions and the leader in melee and Krod becomes engaged and surrounded]   [Between Lairion and Killian the group of minions are slain except for one minion and the leader who surround Krod. In defense Krod unleashes a 1st level Thunderwave to blast them away. One of the minions dies and the leader is left by themselves wounded]   ... Get away from me you cretins !... Oh ! That was unexpected... Wait ! Don't let him get away !... Get the guards !!! Note- Elemental Thunder not only generates damaging sound waves to the mind but the force of the waves themselves can shatter physical matter as well... Hence the obliterated corpse of the bandit I struck.   [Killian and Lairion give pursuit while Krod goes through what was left behind. Among the stolen goods from the market is a crudely drawn map of the sewage system of Rel. Then catches up with his companions to discover they are in a stand off]   ... Oh no ! He's taken a small girl hostage. One wrong move on our part and she dies... I don't know how long we can keep this up. We're running low on magical potential and we're quite injured. We can't risk the girl... Note- As cold as it sounds. The Bandit leader cannot risk the girls safety too, she is his only bargaining chip and if any harm comes to her. He wont want to be arrested... So its best to let him get away for now... A decision I don't feel very comfortable admitting.   The assailant makes his way into the sewers through one of the manhole covers, a crowd has formed in response to the situation. The looks of desperation in their eyes is soul destroying and not welcomed especially after we've risked our lives to help with their problems. Lairion has already jumped down in pursuit, commendable and selfless, I am humbled by his determination but we cannot pursue further ! If we continue the pursuit we'd end up dying ourselves to possible traps and ambushes and our failure would result in the girls death. Ah ! Thank goodness the guards are here now. Despite our standing within the forest guard, we're technically classed as Ximena's mercenary's and operate outside the law. It's only right the forest guard take over and deal with this officially. We brief them on the situation and I hand over the map. I hope they manage to succeed. Note- I try to memorize the map before handing it over, just in case the guards don't manage to save the girl we can take over. I will also collect up the stolen goods and take them back to the Forest Guard HQ. Again it is important that we do not appear to be above the law. [Approximately 10 minutes pass before something happens]   ...What on earth ! A crowd is forming in the market square... Was that a scream ? Oh please no !... Oh thank goodness ! The guards that went in pursuit have reappeared with the girl in tow... At a glance the girl seems to be a bit dirty, possibly bruised and shaken but not injured. It turns out the girl Ayla Stoneweaver is known among the Forest Guard, she often accompanies them on patrols and helps them out wherever she can. It's better that she was saved by them than us. Her trust is with them and not 3 strangers. The crowd immediately give all credit to the guards. A bitter experience as we did most of the investigation and engagement but it's as it should be. A knowing look at my companions confirms this. We suck it up and head over to congratulate the guards personally. Killian put on a performance for the crowd, Lairion gives the guards some healing and I inquire with the most senior guard to reacquire the map so that we can give a full report to Ximena.   We stick around until the crowd has dispersed and the guards have gone back to their business. Between the three of us, we know we're going to have to investigate this matter further. This issue isn't over. I have a feeling this small group of thieves were just a small representation of a larger organisation. We decide to just scout the area where the girl was recovered out and not get into any engagement, any more information we can gleam is a needed for this type of investigation. We decide to go through the sewer entrance the assailant went through. Following the map we discover traps that guards triggered whilst in pursuit. Eventually we reach the area where the leader of the group was slain, it appears he was intending to head further in. As expected as we make our way through the intended route of the leader before he was slain. I go on ahead whilst the other two hang back. I discover what can only be two lookouts or sentry's guarding an area further in. We know now that we have more work to do down here... Note- With this many entry's and exits, goods and individuals can easily be transported though in and out of the town with ease. I shall be making a copy of the map recovered and add additional points of interest to it. After our experience in Blaising Del an escape route out of a hostile town is invaluable... Worst case scenario of course but I like to be prepared for any possibility.   [The group discover the sewage system is vast and the exit taken ends up taking them outside of the town]   ... After the day we've had we all agree to head back to the Broken Axe Inn to get cleaned up and take some must needed rest. Magical cultist lairs and thieves organisation in the sewers. Ugh ! I'm done for today...   ...   We reconvene at breakfast and we all decide to report our findings to Ximena and ask if she'd like us to investigate further as we're not the official authority... Note- I do have a request of my companions which I hope they let me pursue. I made an appointment 2 days ago to take classes in scroll crafting at the Silver Quill with Elven owner Elanor. The opportunity for enhancing Artificer skill set not only fulfills my personal mission of knowledge but helps the others too. However first things first.   We manage to catch Ximena heading off to settle a matter in the Infernal Forest with a group of the Forest guard. We report all of our actions and findings, returning the stolen possessions to then be returned to the owners. Ximena officially deputizes us under her command within the Forest Guard. I don't know about the other two but a massive sigh of relief washes over me as we can now operate with some minor authority within the town without fear of a reprisal. Definitely unexpected but certainty not unwelcome. She gives us her blessing to continue with any situations we're investigating. Ximena's responsibility is for the betterment of the town as the guard are restricted by the law and can only do so much. Note- We have been given an official badge. I shall look into making a cloak over the badge either through physical and magical means, perhaps a magical mechanism of some kind to be revealed under a command word or gesture only to the holder. The best way to utilize this is to actually not keep it on show. It may actually hinder some of our pursuits in the future if we have it on show.   My companions agree to indulge my pursuits of knowledge. I'm excited to hear this. We head on over to the Silver Quill and I immediately ask Elanor about the lessons and whats involved. It sounds utterly fascinating, I'm so looking forward to it. Killian actually invests some of his own money to let me take all the lessons basics, standard and advanced... I'm at a loss for words...   [Over the course of 6 hours from the early morning to mid afternoon, Krod learns how to Craft Magical Scrolls]   Part 1. Understanding the Basics of Scrolls -What is a Scroll? A scroll is a single-use magic item that contains the essence of a spell, which can be cast by anyone who meets the requirements. Scrolls allow spellcasters to preserve spells for later use, or even provide non-spellcasters with access to magic. -Components of a Scroll: The lesson would explain that a scroll requires three key components: The Physical Scroll: Usually made from parchment, vellum, or rare materials such as silk or treated hide, which must be specially prepared to receive magical enchantments. Magical Ink: This ink must be imbued with arcane power and is crafted from rare ingredients like powdered gemstones, enchanted herbs, or the blood of magical creatures. Different spells require different ink formulas. The Spell Formula: The scroll contains an intricate combination of arcane runes, glyphs, and symbols that represent the spell in written form. The scribe must inscribe these with precision.   Part 2. Theoretical Knowledge of Magic -Spell Transcription: The character would learn how to transcribe a spell onto the scroll. The key to this is understanding the spell’s structure, breaking it down into its arcane components, and encoding that information into a written form. For higher-level spells, the process is more complex and requires greater magical knowledge. -Attunement to Magic: The character must align the magical energy with the scroll while writing. This requires concentration and knowledge of how to channel arcane forces. They would be taught about the delicate balance between the physical material and the magic being infused into it. -Different Schools of Magic: The lesson would cover how each school of magic (e.g., evocation, illusion, necromancy) has unique arcane symbols and techniques for transcribing spells onto a scroll.   Part 3. The Crafting Process -Step-by-Step Process: The character would learn the practical steps for crafting a scroll, including: Preparing the Materials: Treating and inscribing the parchment with special oils or solvents to make it receptive to magic. Writing the Scroll: Inscribing the scroll in a quiet, focused environment. Even the slightest mistake in writing a rune could cause the spell to fail or produce dangerous side effects. Infusing the Magic: This is the most critical part. The character must concentrate on the spell while writing, pouring their own magical energy (or an external source of magic) into the scroll as they transcribe the spell. The more powerful the spell, the more difficult this process is. Final Binding: Once written, the scroll must be sealed with a final magical binding to prevent the magic from leaking or dissipating over time. This is often done with a wax seal, enchanted ribbon, or magical glyph.   Part 4. Risks and Limitations -Scroll Failure: Characters would learn that improperly inscribed scrolls can fail, sometimes disastrously. This could range from a simple spell fizzing out, to the scroll exploding in a burst of magical energy, or even corrupting the spell into something unpredictable. -Spell Level Limitations: The character is taught that they cannot craft scrolls of spells higher than their own level of casting ability. Attempting to do so can lead to failure, wasted materials, or dangerous consequences. -Casting from Scrolls: Scrolls are designed to release the stored magic upon reading aloud the glyphs. Non-spellcasters can read the scroll but may struggle with high-level spells. Scrolls crumble into ash after the spell is cast, leaving no trace of the magic behind.   Part 5. Advanced Techniques and Variations -Scroll Enhancement: More advanced lessons might cover ways to enhance a scroll’s potency, extend its shelf life, or add protective wards to ensure it doesn’t fall into the wrong hands. -Specialized Scrolls: Characters may learn how to create scrolls with special properties, such as those with delayed activation, hidden spells, or multi-use scrolls that can cast a spell multiple times before crumbling. Part 6. Ethical Considerations -Scrolls for Dark Magic: Some instructors may warn against crafting scrolls with dangerous or forbidden spells, such as those from necromancy or demonology. Creating and using such scrolls can have moral implications and draw unwanted attention.   Note- During my lessons I discover that Elanor is a member and representative of the Order of Arcane Scribes with in this region. She and others of the Order are tasked to retrieve and secure lost and forbidden Arcane knowledge, whether it be in the form of texts, scrolls or glyphs. To ensure this knowledge used to the betterment of all and kept out of the hands of those who would seek to abuse such knowledge. I inform her I was trained and tutored under the master Artisan Boris Bronzeteeth, his name carries some weight, she knows i'm serious in my pursuits now, with that in mind she trusts me enough to pass a unto me a quest the Order has tasked her with. Completing this quest for her may prove my worth with the Order and allow for a membership. Meaning for further advancement in my own knowledge.   I reconvene with my colleagues in the town square upon discovering they have both had an interesting day in their own pursuits as well... Now its time for business. We need to investigate further into the sewers. As we approach the junction where I spotted the sentry's or lookouts, Lairion sends his raven forward to scout the situation out. Killian takes the precaution of pulling a creature out of his Bag of Tricks.   Lets actually try and be stealthy on this one... Blast it !... Take these guys out quick before they alert anyone else...   [Killian, Lairion and Krod engage the guards and manage to slay them before they alert any others to their presence. A acid trap is also triggered with Killian taking the brunt of the acid and Krod catching some of it whilst trying to move past it, being deceived into thinking the trap had been spent]

... How do I get into that chamber ?... Upon investigation the stone Isn't as thick as the hallway from the entrance into the chamber. This will be tough but not impossible. I need to get them out !   [Killian and Lairion take out the Joker cards from the pack of playing cards and burn them in the brazier, in which is the charred remains of Mittens. The missing cat. Burning the two joker cards spawns two wraiths that attack the two of them]   Mmm ?... I wonder ?... Oh bugger it ! I haven't got time for this !   [Krod casts 2nd level Shatter at the stone door creating a massive crack. Not enough the break through but enough to ensure an entrance can be made]   ...Brilliant ! It worked !... Argh ! Damn it ! I don't have enough magical power within me to cast that spell again... I wonder if I charge my battleaxe with the same power...   Raaaggghhh !!!   [Krod uses the Booming Blade cantrip on his battleaxe to mimic the effects, as much as possible of the 2nd level spell Shatter. To finally break the stone door down gaining entrance to the chamber]   ... Wraiths ! Ugh ! They had to be undead didn't they. Well I'm sure Killian and Lairion are in their element cleansing these tormented souls.   [Killian and Lairion have both had their life essence drained by the wraiths having their Max HP reduced. Ximena joins the fight as Krod enters to provide reinforcements]   ...Get away from me foul spirit ! Ugh this wraith keeps coming !... Stand back everyone !   [Krod uses Telekinetic Shove on the wraith in pursuit of him to get away from its reach and fires of 6 charges of his Wand of Magic Missiles. 4 darts go into the one in pursuit and 4 more go into the wraith engaging Killian and Lairion]   [Killian, Lairion, Krod and Ximena eventually take out the two wraiths with a combination of Divine Strikes from Killian, Flanking attacks made by Lairion and Ximena and magical attacks from Krod ]   ... What !? What the hell ! I can't leave you two for a minute, I'm just going to sit down here while you both play at cards. I tell you what chaps, I'll get my battleaxe ready for another inevitable catastrophe.   [Killian, Lairion and Ximena solve the puzzle of the playing cards. Burning the cards in the hearts suit from 9 to the Ace. With every card burned Mittens remains twitch and eventually is brought back to life]   Mittens !!! I don't believe it ! Mittens is alive. Hahaha !...Wait catch it before it goes missing again !... Bugger !   Despite a small victory with bring back Mittens, we still have the chamber with the coffin. We inform Ximena that bringing more guards before we investigate the final chamber will be beneficial especially after the encounter we've just had. Thankfully she agrees. After another few guards come down Ximena lets us take charge in investigating the final chamber. The coffin is centered in the chamber itself surrounded by bowls of blood, bones and flesh. I volunteer to investigate further, there seems to be no other way to determine what this coffin is other than to open it. Brace yourselves...   ... I'll take that sigh of relief that I see on my companions and the guards faces as a positive. The coffin is empty and doesn't appear to be a coffin. The inside has spike facing up through the area where someone would lie, I've heard of these devices of death... Wait ? What ? Ugh ? Why do I feel like ? Ugh ?... Nobody enter this chamber !!! -Note-The magic surrounding this coffin is immensely dark in nature. It has some way of getting into the mind forming a compulsion to willing enter the coffin. Clever way of accumulating a death toll without effort. The magic runs to deep for me to gleam its true purpose or origin. Similar to the Elder magic ring I acquired, I'm clearly not got enough experience to understand such things. I theorize that the coffin is not of this place and acts as some form of conduit. The victims are placed within the coffin and clearly killed, their souls and their flesh offered as a form of payment to this Demon lord Baal.   This is beyond my understanding, our understanding. I think a full practitioner of a holy faith is needed to help in this matter. We inform Ximena that we'll get the aid of Priestess Jelena as we have built up a small amount of respect from her and we can only do so much. ... I can tell just at a glance we're all exhausted and beaten, It's not even noon yet ! Its amazing how these situations where we think we're in control actually seem to get on top of us. Perhaps one day we will be able to tackle whatever we face instead of being beaten so easily. -Note-We really need to find out the mysteries of the Thuderfall Hidaway. The inn is very pleasant and comfortable but we can't stay there forever and a safe haven to re-cooperate and re-charge, to call our own would be the way forward. I need a workshop to theorize, research and craft... I feel my goals in life have changed since this journey began. I wanted to be a world known master artisan like my mentor Boris but now ???...   The church is bustling with folk, it seems that Priestess Jelena is about to hold a sermon for the town. Killian takes the lead on informing the Priestess on our exploits and how Ximena is in need of her aid in the possible cultist chamber. Naturally embellishing his role of course. Thankfully I know this woman holds an subtle, strong power and can see through this buffoons blustering bullshit... Its quite entertaining to watch. After Priestess Jelena heads off to provide her aid to Ximena, we decide as a group to find the baker Ella to inform her that Mittens has been found. By us of course, I swear if anyone proclaims they found that cat I'm gonna...   ... Ahh ! Mittens, all my woes seem to melt away. I think after all the monumental steaks and dark machinations we've faced a little bit of joy to this women has made it all worth it... Oh ! Of course Killian takes the lead in telling her everything...and rest ! Wow ! A small crowd has formed, I hate to give him credit but he's done well this time as this is a perfect opportunity to spread the word and increase our standing. -Note- Even though the reward for Mittens return was 5 silver pieces. We refuse the payment and settle on some freshly baked bread. On the notice board there is a note about pickpockets in the market square. The person who posted this was the mayor's wife with a reward of 40 gold pieces to return what was stolen. I wonder if we manage to capture the assailants, recover the stolen goods and negotiate a small reduction to the reward our reputation may increase further. This is beneficial if we reside here on a more permanent basis in the future.   We meet up with the Lady Marielle. who informs and describes to us the missing heirloom. It turns out she has not been the only one effected by pickpockets. Further investigation is required on this matter and with the forest guard caught up with the cultist chamber we're the ones to sort it. Killian has an interesting idea to lure a pickpocket to him. He says he'll place 5 gold within a small pouch loosely to his person and loudly proclaim he has money to spend and Lairion and myself are to spot and capture the pickpocket in the act. His idea is ludicrous, ridiculous and so obvious... Its going to work isn't it. -Note- I shall become invisible to keep close eye Killian while Lairion keeps a more watchful eye on the crowd. I shall also use the Helm of Telepathy to establish a telepahic connection to Lairion to keep him updated on our situation and provide backup if needed for combat or pursuit.   Stall 1. Nothing so far. Gods thats Expensive ! I suppose it must be worth it, its a popular market.   Stall 2. Mmmm ? I get the feeling Killians plan may have drawn a different kind of attention...   ... Bloody Scammers ! That's it ! I'm getting that money back ! [Krod disconnects telepathic link to Lairion and connects to Killian to warn him the market owners are scamming him]   Damn you, you scamming cow !... For God's sake I'm going to be seen in moment...There's to many people I need to get out of here !   [The crowd in the market square notices the commotion providing opportunity for the pickpockets to strike]   Well that went wonderfully... What now... Killian what are you doing those kids won't know anything...   Well i'll be damned ! Those kids knew the pickpockets !... -Note- If information can't be obtained by conventional means, Let Killian take the lead to find a way... I will never admit this to him but. Ingenious absolutely ingenious. Lairion the back of the Silverpine Outfitters now !!!... [Krod reestablishes a telepathic link to Lairion and both of them head off in pursuit]   ... Its seems there's a group of these degenerates... Excellent my companions here... This group of fools they have know idea what they've got themselves in for now...  

[During the night of the full moon a murder took place that awoke Killian and Lairion. Krod still being Exhausted did not go with them. Lairion using his raven familiar Woe, managed to discover that the body of the victim is covered in grievous wounds, drenched in a pool in its own blood and its face cut open with the skin peeled back]   ...Thank the gods ! I feel worlds better. Its still quite early and Killian is still asleep. Mmm ? I still haven't uncovered the magics behind what we found in the crypt... Note-The Amulet is actually an Amulet of Dol Dorn. Killian will be pleased ! Its only right he gets this, He's been more than charitable with the Board, Food and Drinks. -Another figurine of wondrous power. I can see why this magical statue has been uncovered by us a few times. Its properties bare excellent utility and scouting for folks, regardless of you being a lowly wanderer or the general of an army.   During breakfast we decide the most pressing and concerning matter in the discovery of the symbol of Baal. Killian and I inform Lairion of the cult we all encountered in Blaising Dell and how they were behind the villages corruption. To discover town such as this could very well be in a similar situation is unthinkable. We need to burn out the rot before it infects the town to the point of no return. Despite our minor status white in the town we are not above the law. Seeing whats behind the door could see us being arrested and prosecuted. Reporting to Zimena and informing her of what we've uncovered first will ensure our story if we are apprehended by the guards. She's definitely stressed. Definitely not in the mood for Killian but I understand that more than most... This is another stain on her record, the murder happened on her watch and another 3 over the past year hasn't helped matters. Lairion getting involved the night previous didn't go down well with the guards but Zimena knows our insight in these matters is the best shes got. I think investigating the corpse might provide more answers and reluctantly she allows us to under her supervision. Note-The body of the victim lays under a white sheet. We all get down to business, no joking, no fooling around. Killian, Lairion and myself discover using various techniques that we've learned in our time discover more about the cause of death. -Despite the grievous wounds across the body, the victim bleed out due to an artery being cut. -The wounds were inflicted by a curved/wicked blade, possibly a kukri or sickle. -The victim was alive during the ritualistic killing, when the skin was peeled. No magical essence is found which means the killing was done by the assailants own hand. Due to this murder the town guards resources are stretched thin. No one can be spared to follow up on investigating the door with the symbol of Baal and possible cult activity We however have the ability to operate outside these restrictions so I suggest to Zimena that we could follow up our own investigation with her blessing of course. Reluctantly she agrees...   [Lairion used the 2nd level spell gentle repose to preserve and protect the corpse from any type of necromantic influence]   We make our way across town again looking out for Mittens, no luck of course. The alleyway seems un-desterbed, perhaps this investigation might come to nothing. What I should say is I hope it will. Note- The door with the symbol doesn't appear to have any traps set mechanical or arcane. The lock doesn't appear to be complex. This is technically breaking and entering. Lairion keeps an eye out for any onlookers or unsavory characters. The doorway leads down underground.   [Lairion sends his familiar Woe to scout the tunnel ahead. Krod uses his magical tinkering feature to create a 5ft area of light on Killians shield as to not draw too much attention but also so that Killian can see as he does not possess Darkvision]   This tunnel seems to going deep... What was that ! Oh No !...   [The party trigger an unseen trap set under one of the floor boards in the tunnel. Killian falls into a pit trap and Lairion and Krod are caught in the secondary trap mechanism]   [Krod casts a 1st level cure wounds on Killian]   ...Ugh ! Perhaps once. Once we'll be able to actually get to the end of hallway or basement without getting caught in a bloody trap ! At least this door is like the previous. I think scouting ahead on my own might be more beneficial, I have the means to go unnoticed..   [Krod casts 2nd level invisibility and scouts out the chamber beyond the door]   The chamber is stark and there is an element of unpleasantness about it. The central chamber has a long table in the center with a door leading of to the north,a chest lying to the south and cupboard to south east. Before investigating the area properly, the east wall looks out of place and I suspect there's possibly a room beyond Note-The Chest contains 3 Curved blades, one of which is stained with blood. An educated guess is that the blood belongs to our recent victim. The Cupboard contains 4 sets of robes but has room for one more. So 5 individuals we know who are involved in these murders. The Room to the north upon first glance appear to lead into a circular chamber with a braiser in the center. Whatever was being burned hasn't been lost yet, perhaps there's something we can salvage ?   I inform the others that the immediate area seems to be secure. I decide to stay invisible just in case of any interruptions or possible ambush. The east wall has in fact got a room behind it. Let's see what's hiding... By the Gods !... It's a Coffin ! A bloody Coffin !   We need the Zimena and the Forest Guard now ! If we pry any further without there backing we could fall into a deadly situation... Wait ! Killian we need the Forest guard to see this ! Wait ! Damn It !!!   [Krod uses the helm of telepathy to cast the 2nd level suggestion spell on Killian before he decides to enter to the Room with the braiser to investigate what has been burned]   ... Thank the Gods ! I don't like what i did but it had to be done especially after what i did yesterday with that ring and not taking the proper precautions. I shall remain here under the guise of invisibility While Lairion and Killian get Zimena and the forest guard.   About 20 minutes later Killian and Lairion accompanied by Zimena and two of her forest guard arrive. Now we can do a thorough search of this chamber without worry of of prosecution and backup !   ... Damn It ! They're Trapped ! For once can we not spring a bloody trap ! I can't see or hear them the stone that has dropped down blocking the doorway seems to be about a foot thick. I hope they find way to lift the trap ?...   [Killian, Lairion and Zimena become trapped in the circular room with the braiser in, where they find the remains of the missing cat Mittens. They discover a set of playing cards with a riddle attached to Mittens body, solving the mystery could lead to their release]

...The catacombs are finally cleared and I am done before the day has even started...   We report back to Priestess Jelana and inform her of a job well done with some heroic embellishment on Killians part of course. 50 silver and the plunder from the catacombs has more than made up for that harrowing experience from that ring this morning. I let Killian and Lairion know that any other jobs or tasks will not an ideal undertaking in my exhausted state. We still haven't fully discovered what Rel has to offer, so we all decide to have a wonder round. The first stop is the Guilded Quill... Note- Priestess Jelana has a certain timelessness to her. I theorize that she is older than she looks, probably due to the type of magic she wields from her faith. I don't know why but I have a feeling she's not all she seems.   ... The Guilded Quill is a beautiful scribes suppliers. The store houses hundreds of books that fill its walls, The second floor is an open gallery to try out quills and inks of different magical properties. Parchment ranges from its most basic for rough sketches and notes to the finest quality that can be used to en scribe magical scrolls. The owner is an Elf by the name of Elanor, she looks very well read and proud of her establishment... Ugh ! Killian, Killian when will you learn ? One day you'll end up trying to chat up the wrong women. Ha Ha ! I hope i'm there to see that. Interesting texts. Mostly factual, I appreciate that more than fiction. Knowledge is the key to understanding everything... What's that ? A small piece of literature fell out of the book. The Order of the Arcane Scribes ? Elanor seems quite dismissive about the order when we ask her about it. Its apparently a secret society of some kind but not many believe they exist mainly due to the fact they are essentially librarians... Note- Elanors dismissive nature towards our questions about the order begs investigation. This order might have some knowledge of what we were exposed to in Blaising Dell or unravel some mysteries regarding the Thunderfall Hidaway ? I've commissioned Elanor to craft an ink the becomes indecipherable to eyes other than mine, I wanted to also purchase parchment that only appeared to it scribe but id require a constant supply for my notes and discoveries. Perhaps something to look into the future. Approximate creation of said ink will be ready in 2 days. Eleanor also hosts workshops for those interested in the art of calligraphy or the basics of spellcrafting through writing. I would love to learn and eventually master this technique, my magic is channeled into my craft I'm not endowed with magic like some sorcerers and wizards, so I have to find alterantives to enhance myself. Also purchased from the Guilded Quill: -Crystal Tipped Wand worth 50gp [+1 wand]   Whilst making our way through the town we have a look out for mittens. Something's caught Lairion's eye... He leads us to an alley behind the Broken Axe inn and some other houses. Upon first glance it looks like the Elf is chasing shadows or his superstitious beliefs is blinding his sight. However a closer look reveals a small symbol on the door in the alley. Baal. Lairion tells us this is the symbol of Baal, a demon prince of some kind. This isn't good. I just think back to the cult we encountered in Blaising Dell and I can't help but feel that something is amiss in Rel... Probably just my paranoia but also begs investigation.   [The Party ensure that after investigating the alley that it is put back the way it was when they found it]   Note-We seem to be accumulating a lot questions that need answering. A trip to the Eternal Library is on the books for today ! I hope we find what we're looking for.   The day is still young and we all decide to discover what the rest of Rel has to offer. The Looming Spire is a curiously crafted building. No entrance ? Interesting ?... Ah the local children should know what the story is behind this mystery...   ...What an insolent little wretch ! Tying to swindle and insult me !   Ugh ! I have no time or patience for this... I'm exhausted !   Note-Killian and Lairion discover the Looming Spire is some form of headquarters or outpost for the mages guild. An organisation that would be beneficial to be associated with but the entrance will only reveal itself to its members. How do they expect to recruit initiates if the don't let anyone enter ? The logic of wizards eludes me ?   With our efforts squanded Killian leads us to the tavern next door. I have to say a drink after our efforts this morning in the catacombs would be welcome. The Thirsty Devil. A lively place indeed, having just witnessed what can only be rainbows and bubbles being belched by some of the patrons and a couple of drunks in a brawl being kicked out by the owner suggests this place to be where it all happens. The owner is Halfling man called Kenhi who has the air of a sailor about him, I'd even hazard a guess at former pirate. He handles the drunks well and keeps the ale flowing. Confident personality and not afraid to have a chat with the patrons. I don't catch what Killian says to him but by the look of it hes getting us a drink... This could be interesting. Note-Kenhi informs us of a special drinks menu that we can purchase from. Apparently purchasing a drink from this menu must consumed on the premises or cease to work and once drank they provide the consumer a minor magical boon. This is a amusing way of brewing and bottling magical effects besides potions and elixirs. I shall make a note of what we find out I'm sure the experience will be entertaining to say the least... I must thank Killian. Its been a while since we sat down and properly enjoyed a drink and a laugh. Minor Magical Drinks Menu: Bubbly Bourbon 5 sp- Courageous Cordial 25 gp- Crocodile Assistance 25 gp- Fiery Water 25 gp- Medicinal Mix 25 gp- Musical Merlot 25 gp- Rainbow Rum 5 sp- Sober Solutions 5 sp- Sprite Sparkly 5 sp-   [The Party partakes in a drinking game of sort, all roll 1d20 and whoever achieves the highest roll takes a drink of the next drink we haven't tried on the Minor Magical Drinks Menu]   Excellent ! truly excellent ! We haven't had a chance to let loose like that for months. Definitely a place for having a good time but wouldn't want to stay there Ha Ha ! I think our rooms at the Broken Axe Inn will do us... Ah ! Well all good things must come to an end and its back to business. We make our way to the Eternal Library with a lot of research to do. The Eternal Library is a magnificent repository of knowledge. The bookcases are higher than some of the buildings in the town and the entire place is built over two stories. The biggest feature of all is the roof... There isn't one ! Never have I seen a Library with no roof, its completely exposed to the elements. There is an air of magic surrounding and protecting this place. The three of us set off to research what information we can about the discoveries we want answers for, with the aid of The keeper of Tomes. A hooded black and grey robed figure, slightly ominous in presence but ultimately friendly and immensely helpful directing us to the books we require. We're all there for a good 3 hours researching and another hour afterwards after meeting up to share the information discovered. Note-The Information Discover form the Eternal Library: -Killian Discovered information about the history of Thunderfall Hideaway and more clues in understanding the riddles and runes guarding it: How the Molend Family came to be in possession of Thunderfall Hideaway. The Molend family's acquisition of the deeds to Thunderfall Hideaway is a tale of fate, fortune, and a touch of the arcane. In the waning days of the Era of Shattered Stars, the Molend family were renowned throughout the land as intrepid explorers and collectors of rare artifacts. The patriarch of the family, Cedric Molend, was particularly obsessed with the legends surrounding Thunderfall Hideaway and its mysterious creator, Aldarion the Architect. Cedric spent years researching and seeking out clues to the location of the hideaway. His quest led him to the Great Library of Eldoria, where he uncovered a series of ancient texts that spoke of a hidden key —a key that would unlock the secrets of Thunderfall Hideaway. Armed with this knowledge, Cedric and his kin embarked on a perilous journey to the town of Rel. There, they encountered a series of trials that tested their resolve, their bravery, and their intellect. They braved the Enchanted Forest, navigated the Whispering Caves, and finally stood before the gates of Thunderfall Hideaway. 1. The Moonstone-Symbolizes intuition, mystery, and the cyclical nature of time. It represents the wisdom that comes from understanding the deeper, hidden forces at play in the world. 2. The Sunstone-Represents illumination, growth, and the power of the sun to nurture life. It signifies enlightenment and the pursuit of knowledge. 3. The Waterstone-Embodies emotion, adaptability, and the life-giving properties of water. It reflects the hideaway's connection to the Thunderfall and the flow of life's energies. 4. The Earthstone-Stands for stability, fertility, and the grounding force of the earth. It symbolizes the foundation upon which the hideaway is built and the strength it provides. 5. The Windstone-Signifies change, freedom, and the breath of life. It represents the winds of change that bring new beginnings and the whispers of the spirits. 6. The Firestone-Conveys passion, transformation, and the creative spark. It symbolizes the warmth of the hearth within the hideaway and the transformative power of fire. -Lairion Discovered information about the history of Baal and symbolism on the door in the ally we found. [https://www.worldanvil.com/w/ashein-ph1ltheee/a/bhaal-person] -I wanted to uncover more information on the Order of Arcane Scribes. What they are is interesting to say the least and their knowledge would be invaluble to our struggles. [https://www.worldanvil.com/w/ashein-ph1ltheee/a/the-order-of-the-arcane-scribe-organization]   Its early evening by the time we leave. I could stay there for days but I'm drained and need rest. A good meal and an early night for Krod I think. Back at the Broken Axe Inn we are greated by Duror who brings us our food and a warning of all things ? Apparently a night such as this when the full moon is out bodes as an ill-omen in Rel. Having seen what we've seen I guess as to what that ill-omen is...

The main hall so to speak is clear of undead. ... Upon further investigation this crypt is more vast than we realized, which means our work is far from over. According to our new companions shadowed raven/crow there appears to be 5 more areas to investigate. Killian heads directly to the south as there is some murmurs of noise coming from behind it ?   I'm happy that Killians faith in me is not lost despite my weariness and its good to see he's taking more sensible precautions before charging into a situation without proper preparation... Ugh ! I feel terrible, my investigation of the door bares nothing fruitful. I want to say its safe but I know as well as the other two there are no guarantees. I'm going to stay back for this...   [Krod does not pass the DC for the investigation check to detect any traps and Killian triggers a pressure plate that launches him into the ceiling dealing an excessive amount of damage]   ... GOD'S ! DAMN IT ALL !!!... You'd think clearing out a small crypt would be amateur, compared to surviving a ongoing conflict against hordes of undead on a daily basis !?... Clearly not... Mummies. At a guess I'd say the individuals buried here are either from another part of Ashein, nobles or dignitaries of some kind. Not many believe in the process or beliefs of mummification in this part of the world. Note- I shall ask Priestess Jalena what the views of the Order of Celestial Weavers are on this subject. It could bare more insight into future dealings ?   Killian and Lairion quickly dispose of the mummies, and clear the area. A crypt sometimes house possessions of the departed buried and this one is no exception. Its ethically wrong and I know that my companions, the holey than thou god bothering brothers will not jepordise their morals. Nor do i expect them to, they are a good sort but someone is going to have to make the choices that no one else want to make otherwise we'll never make any progress. Note-Contents of the southern room: -2 assorted art objects worth 25gp each -A copper chalice with silver filigree -A pair of engraved bone dice   ... After looking at the injuries that Killian sustained just trying to open a blasted door I'm worried about the next one. Mmmm ? Ah ! That's it ! The Wand of Animate Dead that I acquired from Rotbranches remains. I can animate the remains and get them to activate any traps that remain and with multiple charges I could cover almost every door in the crypt...   ...What ! ...Oh no wait a moment ! ...Lairion Stop ! ...Please Stop ! ...You Imbecile will you just Bloody Stop and listen to me !!!   Note-There's no doubt that Lairion is more zealous in the practice of his faith than Dolen ever was. He will not budge from what he's been told to think and what he thinks he knows about the world. People that think and act like this are dangerous. They will not hesitate to sacrifice you or others for what they think in their eyes is the greater good or even if they feel their deity/religion calls for it... In my younger years I've seen the prosecution of innocents by those who think they are superior or serve a higher calling... It's all the same Bah !   [Lairion destroys the remains of the mummies using the Sacred Flame cantrip. Krod can only use the wand to summon one animated corpse from what remains]   ...From what remains I will be able to conjure up just one animated corpse to provide us a buffer for this crypts traps. After a ridicules amount of convincing the Elf finally concedes, the look on his face is that of discomfort and single mindedness but he will see. The southwestern door the next area to clear out, I send the animated corpse forward through the door... Ah ! No traps, excellent. It's funny that he sends his bird in after i come up with the ingenious idea of using remains of those already past to protect our living lives... Anyway, Lairion claims the room is empty. I'm going in ! I'm getting tired ! Note-I don't deny this familiar that Lairion conjures has the benefit of scouting and surveying an area. However on the flip side he can use this facsimile to spy on folk, that includes us and that worries me more. Contents of the southwestern room: 20gp and 5sp   The northwestern room directly opposite lies open. I advance the animated corpse forward to trigger any traps that maybe there... Nothing. Good, Wow this is interesting. A chest rests in the center of the chamber and surrounding it are 6 pillars, each linked and wrapped with a chain of some kind. After consulting my companions we are all in agreement that clearing the place out first would be the best course of action, we don't have to worry about being ambushed then. Note-The southeastern door leads through to the southern room where we encountered the mummies and have already cleared.   The northeastern room is the last area to thoroughly investigate. Again my plan of sending the animated corpse is coming up trumps again... If we had multiple we could've cleared this place out by now... After having a good search round there appears to be no danger, but I've been wrong before. The room is long and at the end is a table piled up with assorted trinkets. Killian moves in with me to cover my back... What was that !... Blast it ! Another bloody trap ! Ugh !... Well at least I fulfilled my promise to our new companion, the animated corpse is gone. Note-Lairion again scorns me for my actions for taking the valuables. I tell him "how do you think we survived this long" and the fact that Dolen also took his share when it come up too shocked him to the core. Betrayal of those you're trying to help, being brought back from the brink of death and months of conflict against the dregs of death changes folk. He'll learn. I hadn't realized that Killian had used his bag of tricks to summon a Dire Wolf, another body in our party is always welcome. Contents of the northeastern room: A total of 115 gp worth of coins, art objects and gems 10 gp gemstones. 4 worth 40 gp total Eye agate (translucent circles of gray, white brown, blue, or green) Banded agate (translucent striped brown, blue, white, or red) Hematite (opaque gray-black) Blue quartz (transparent pale blue) 25 gp art objects. 3 worth 75 gp Pair of engraved bone dice Gold locket with a painted portrait inside Black velvet mask stitched with silver thread   ...We head back to the room with the pillars in. We discover series of markings worked into the stone. They clearly form a sequence of some kind, the result of which should open the chest in the center and any possible magical and mechanical protections guarding it... Pulling the chains seems to change the face of the pillars and the marking depicted, pulling the chains linked to the pillar in question multiple times changes the marking around again... Ah ! So pulling each these chains a number of time creates the sequence required. The question is "What is the sequence" ? Hahaha ! Sometimes having a narcissistic muscle head for a friend has its benefits. Killian strikes the chains with his sword and it appears our confusing almost impossible problem has been solved. Note-Contents of the chest in the northwestern room: A total of 95 gp worth of coins, art objects, and gems Moonstone 50 gp gemstone (translucent white with pale blue glow) Malachite (opaque striated light and dark green) and Obsidian (opaque black) 10 gp each 25 gp art object Gold locket with a painted portrait inside Figurine of raven Unknown emblem When we reach a safe spot out of the way of prying eyes. I shall investigate these items further.   Ahh ! More undead ! Its time to finish this !!!

...Resting in an actual bed after months in the wild is such a welcome gift. I see that Killian has a certain spring in his step. After a hearty breakfast too we're ready to start a new day rested and refreshed. Note- I shall leave Matilda within the grounds of the inn. I see no need to have her with us within a town such as this. Defense and resource harvesting is useful when in the wild. However some jobs we've seen on the notice board could definitely benefit from her skills so to speak. I will check back on her at the end of the day for another batch of repairs.   [Krod attunes to the helm of telepathy and the wand of animate dead]   We all decide to go straight to the mayor to report in, as we feel we don't want to step on any toes if it isn't our place to claim our inherited deed to the Thunderfall Hidaway. The house or mansion i should say is a beautiful large minimalist solid structure, the doors are quite clearly made of the wood from the infernal forest. Note- Surveying the town I can see that a majority of the buildings seem to use the Ironwood, greatly beneficial if the town was to ever come under siege. Mayor Thomlin actually answers the door. Strange considering his position ? The man looks to be in his 70's and immensely tired almost as if not fully aware of his own actions... We firstly apologize for the early disturbance as Ximena did inform us that he was travelling. Killian reals off our exploits with his natural embellishment and I explain how we were blessed with the deeds. His response concerns me, he doesn't seem to be all there. I am fully aware of how old age can effect the mind but this man is supposed to be running the town. While Killian and our new companion Lairion speak with the old man he mentions a Priestess of a holy order by the name of Jalena. Trust is in short supply and i want to know if there is any other influence at work...   [Krod uses the the helm of telepathy to read the surface thoughts of Mayor Thomlin]   It's a mess in there. Images and flashes in no decernable order would suggest that the man is inflicted by dementia. This priestess still intrigues me though. I'm going the probe further...   [Krod casts the detect thoughts spell through the helm of telepathy to read the thoughts of Mayor Thomlin]   I don't feel any malicious influence, again everything is jumbled. The priestess comes into the mans thoughts a lot more, I think we should pay her a visit... Ah ! My companions are finished with him. I let them know what I've found and we decide a trip to the church is in order. Killian also wants to increase our reputation within Rel by fulfilling some of these jobs and the church wants a crypt clearing out.   On our way to the church we look for this missing cat called mittens, another one of the notices that we're looking into. I decide it's a good idea to stock up on resources if we are to continue in our en devours especially our new companion Lairion. Killian and I have no idea of his skill set or capabilities. The experiences we've had on this journey leave no place for the ill-prepared. The Silverpine Outfitters seems like a good start. The owner appears to be a Half-Orc... What the !? Ah yes of course... Killians emotional scars appears to have got the better of him. I am grateful he just walked out, experiences like that can make us do unpredictable and regrettable things. There are a couple of interesting items that I'll inquire about...   [Krod trades his scale mail for an Enchanted Compass that allows the user to never loose their way]   Note- The enchanted compass doesn't sound like the most useful tool in the world but the moment we become lost its magical properties will be invaluable. There is also a magical lantern that never runs out of oil that also intrigues me. It has 3 magical enchantments that can be bought along side the lantern. Eternal Flame (Standard) The lantern’s light never dims, and it doesn’t require refueling or replacement of oil. Perfect for long journeys or exploration in dark places. Language Illumination (Upgrade) Upgrade When activated, the lantern reveals hidden messages or symbols written in ancient languages. Great for deciphering cryptic inscriptions. Timekeeper’s Glow (Upgrade) The lantern’s light changes color based on the time of day. Blue for dawn, golden for noon, and crimson for dusk. Helps you keep track of time. We do not have the enough to purchase the item as of yet but I would like to procure it in the future and study it. Possibly replicate its magical effects somehow. This is also an ample time to see if I can advance my own research and training but Gromash the owner seems like the stubborn sort hes more afraid of me becoming a competitor. I can see his argument but it is a short sighted and quite frankly stupid notion.   Even though Killian did the right thing walking out instead of reacting. Lairion and I talk him out of his greivences. You cannot judge an entire race on the actions of a select few or clan. My master is a Duregar and even friend Dolen is Drow, both races known to the world as troublesome...   We find another store on the way called the Thunderfall Cascade general store. Its unknown what sort of resources we can aquire here but its worth getting to know folks and how the town works, so to speak. The fresh bread smell is certainly enticing and I can see why the locals like this place. The owner of the store is a human man by the name of Eldric Ironwood who informs us that he used to be an adventurer. The store I regret will not provide us much in the way of resources besides sustenance, I don't deny that the herbs have extraordinarily fresh quality to them. A section of the store is curtained off and after enquiring with Eldric he introduces us to his spouse Elowen Ironwood. A beautiful Half-Elf woman who looks after the Curiosities and Oddities. By the Gods ! Such beautiful and fascinating items... Note- Lairion purchases holy instruments and ingredients i assume for his rituals. I trade the dog mask of many colors for the Phoenix feather quill and the Luck infused dice, again like the compass these items will be invaluable when the circumstance arises. Killian buys the mysterious magical ring and gives it to me ? This actually leaves me at a loss for words. I am grateful as i look forward to unlocking what possible secrets it holds. As a thank you I purchase the miniature Griffin stature. He may not see the benefit of this seemingly mundane item until hes riding a full size Griffin into battle.   The Church of the Celestial Weavers is an impressive monument to their worship, not a widespread religion but a strong one. Killian leads the way in and after a minute admiring its vast structure we are met with the most beguiling visage of a young human women with dark hair and alabaster skin. She almost looks too beautiful to belong here... I don't feel comfortable here... Oh for the love of Gods ! Killian is naturally tripping over his own tongue. Lairion is difficult read, I knows hes a religious man but he guards himself well. While Killian attempts his charm offensive by regaling her of our exploits, intentions of employment and fears about mayor Thomlin. I want to see if this women is a being of genuine intent or hiding something.   [Krod uses the helm of telepathy to read the surface thoughts of Priestess Jalena]   What the !?... She is powerful indeed. Despite my reservations I can't help but respect her abilities I apologize and merely express my concerns for the old man... Ah ! Killian has finished being a fool so I think its safe to assume we have a contract of employment with the Order of Celestial Weavers clearing out a crypt.   En route, we decide to probe deeper into the magic items we've acquired... Mmmm ? This is interesting ? I cant read the magical ring. I wonder if...   [Krod puts on the unknown magical ring and from his perspective his vision goes completely black and a dim light in the distance of his vision illuminates the silhouette of a powerful androgynous being beckoning him. From the perspective of Killian and Lairion Krod eyes white out and starts to age rapidly. Killian rips the ring off Krods finger and saves him from death. Krod as an outcome has aged permanently and the experience has made him become exhausted]   Ugh ! What on this earth just happened to me. I'm so drained. Typical I suppose, when one meddles in things they don't understand but sometimes the practical approach is the one that yields the best results... Note- This magical ring has a dormant power within it too powerful to be left in the wrong hands for the time being, being its keeper will have to suffice.   The smell of death reeks from the entrance to the crypt. My condition is not ideal for this engagement but I trust my companions to take care of the holy matters of vanquishing possible undead zombies and spirits after all they are both holy men...   [Killian and Lairion engage the zombies in physical combat. Killian close quarters with jis sword and shield and Lairion from ranged with his bow]   [Krod engages with his lightning launches from range, followed by 2nd level spell web to trap the zombies and then set those that are trapped alight with a critical hit from the firebolt cantrip]   ...I'm lucky that this encounter was within our control, in the past its not always worked out for us. I wonder whats going on down here ?...  

... I feel a sigh of relief washes over the three of us as we make our to the borders of the Infernal Forest. Almost 3 and a half months of conflict, stranded and lost, on the run, battling hordes of undead and our confrontation with Rotbranch. Blaising Dell feels like a lifetime ago. Someday we will return, the dark influence and corruption that has taken the village caught us off guard. We trusted too easily. Now Its safe to say that the ongoing conflict has ground away our ignorance and naivety... well at least mine and Dolens. Not sure about Killian.   The town of Rel is an impressive sight. The direction out of the Infernal Forest towards the town certainly paints a picture. The evening sun rests on top of the mountain range of the Restless Hills seeping light into the valley below. A huge waterfall cuts through the center of the nearest mountain and drops behind the town as if pointing to our destination. The sunlight drapes the towers, walls and houses in a warm light. The town has a certain bustle about it. Along its enormous stone crescent moon bridge are ques of trade wagons moving in and out of the town. Within the town itself are a wonder of different buildings and structures, some made of stone and some made of wood. With a town this size its easy to get lost in which for us is what were looking for for now. Note- A town this large has ample opportunities for creating contacts, securing supplies from various trader and the advancement of my own artisan skills. Current circumstances dictate that we integrate ourselves into the town first.   My colleagues and I decide to report to Ximena and the forest/towns guard before we check out the estate that we've some what inherited, just in case anything is required us. I think we're all in agreement that we don't want to upset the local authority. Note- The deeds we recovered in the forest are clearly left blank for ownership to be granted to those who are given the blessing of the Hemlen family. Despite a Hemlen family giving us their blessing to inherit Thuderfall Hideaway. There are possible legal issues in the fact that the family member in question was dead...   As we make our way through the town it feels like a different world, the sheer amount of people is a welcome sight compared to our ventures in the Infernal forest. I wonder if any of these folks actually know what we had to do to protect them from the horrors that lurked in that place?... Anyway I'm happy to see the everyday hustle and bustle of the town not perturbed by a previously looming threat. A beautiful fountain is at the heart of the town square. Surrounded by buildings and shops. The towns square seems to house the majority of the merchant and trader caravans as they appear to be packing up from here. A billboard sits in the square covered with notices and local information. Killian makes a b-line to it and in this instance hes on the money, local affairs, jobs and providing general support is a good way to increase our reputation... Unlike a certain village we were killed in. Note-Information on the notice board; Lost Cat: “Mittens, a black and white cat, has gone missing. Last seen near the market. Reward for safe return.” - Posted by Ella the Baker. Reward: 5 silver pieces. Goblin Troubles: “Goblins spotted in the nearby forest, harassing travelers. Need them gone.” - Posted by Captain Harrold. Reward: 30 silver pieces. Herbalist Assistant: “In need of a strong back to help gather herbs from the Infernal Forest.” - Posted by Master Alchemist Orin. Reward: 10 silver pieces per day. Bandit Leader: “Wanted: The notorious bandit leader ‘Blacktooth’. Alive for questioning.” - Posted by Sheriff Lorne. Reward: 100 gold pieces. Haunted Crypt: “Strange noises from the old crypt. Seeking brave souls to investigate.” - Posted by Priestess Elara. Reward: 50 silver pieces. Escort Caravan: “Merchants traveling to the next town seek guards against bandit attacks.” - Posted by Trader’s Guild. Reward: 25 silver pieces plus bonuses for safe delivery. Missing Heirloom: “Family heirloom stolen, likely by pickpockets in the square. Desperate for its return.” - Posted by Lady Marielle. Reward: 40 gold pieces. Dragon Sightings: “Dragon seen flying near Mount Gorgon. Need confirmation and details.” - Posted by Wizard’s Conclave. Reward: 200 silver pieces. Bridge Repair: “The old bridge is unsafe; skilled workers needed to repair before it collapses.” - Posted by Mayor Thomlin. Reward: 15 silver pieces per day of work. Wanted Dead or Alive: “The assassin known as ‘Silent Whisper’. Dangerous, approach with caution.” - Posted by The Crown’s Justice. Reward: 500 gold pieces. -There is also a note on here for Dolen. I have a bad feeling about what this might mean. He has a very shady background. Perhaps is past has caught up with him. I'm in agreement with Killian who suggests we meet this contact who's looking for our Drow companion.   We find the forest/towns guard headquarters and we are immediately recognized for our activities in the Infernal forest. We're ushered into Ximena's office where shes doing paperwork. Obol the giant wolf on guard as per usual. We let her know our intentions and that our obligations to the Treant council has come to an end. We want to rest but not to assume our deed to the Thunderfall Hideaway is a given. She informs us the mayor is not in town and she has no authority to go through this type of legalities. She however give us an interesting story on the Hideaways origins and give us her permission to inspect the area but obviously with caution due to its magical nature. Note- I'd say her position in this organization is quite influential, the size of her office and where it is with in the building The forest/towns guard headquarters appears to be seated on the edge of Rel, where the town meets the The Infernal Forest. It appears to be abnormal structure compared to the rest of the town. Its built from the timber of the Infernal forest and the signature stone used in the construction of the buildings of Rel, a design that suggests the coalition between civilization and nature.   The Thuderfall Hideaway doesn't disappoint the magic surrounding the grounds are impressive. This however presents us all with our next challenge. How do we enter the grounds and gain entry to the house ? Upon investigating the area, the courtyard appears warded against those not worthy enough to enter the grounds... What the ! Killian ?!   ...I think its safe to say we're not getting in anytime soon. We all vote to take refuge at the local tavern. I think we could all do with a good meal, a stiff drink and to rest in an actual bed. Note- A riddle and a series of Glyphs/Symbols are to be deciphered before entry. This will require more research especially now that we've discovered the Thuderfall Hidaway is guarded my magical defenses. (Riddle Guardian of secrets, keeper of time, I stand watch without a chime. My hands are still, my face is blank, I hold no rank. Yet within my silent keep, Lies power vast and secrets deep. Speak my name, and enter thee, What am I? Can you see? (Symbols -Swirling winds -Flames -Crescent Moon -Waves -Earth -Sun   The Broken Axe Inn is our next destination, a rough and tumble place by the looks but we're no strangers places like this now. A couple called Duror and Gerra run the place. They have an interesting tale about the origins of the inn and their meeting and later marriage. Killian treats us all to a feast fit for a king and enough drink to drown our sorrows and more. Lodging is provided too so we don't have to worry about finding a place to sleep.   ...That shady looking figure in the corner appears to be beckoning Dolen over. Perhaps they are a part of the same organisation ? They are dressed in similar garb.   Wait ! Where is Dolen going ?   ...Dolen's gone ! Just like that ! After everything we've been through... I don't have any words...   Lairion. If I was to make a deduction, this elf is Dolen's blood brother as they are not the same kin. Dolen must trust him enough to take his place on this journey ?   As the night progresses an inebriated man makes himself known that he knows the secrets of the Thunderfall Hidaway and an artifact hidden within a maze underneath the grounds, naturally we invite him over to discover more as we have essetially inherited it. Killian tries his natural charms and failing beautifully. The man seems to be digging his whole be drinking himeslf to sleep. Now is my time to discover what this fool knows...   [Krod uses the Mage Hand cantrip via the telekinesis feat- the Mage Hand appears invisible- Krod routes through the drunks bag and whilest stealthy studies the notes]   Rune 1: Start your journey under the wisdom of the night sky. Rune 2: See the light of knowledge and the dawn of understanding. Rune 3: Honour the Thunderfall and the flow of life's energies. Rune 4: Round oneself in the strength and stability of the hideaway. Rune 5: Embrace change and the breath of new beginnings. Rune 6: Ignite the spark of adventure and the warmth of the hearth within. Note-Upon first glance these documents may hold a clue to entering the Thunderfall Hidaway...

...The close encounter with Rotbranch shook us all to the core, we all decided to rest at the edge of the swamps and rethink or strategy. We're not seasoned warriors and going straight on into the swamps headfirst to carve out Rotbranches corruption was a bad idea. After readjusting our magical potential and recharging our equipment we decided on a stealthy approach. Dolen used his affinity with the shadows to cast a spell over us all that should mask our entrance to the swamp where Rotbranch resides. With any luck we should be able to strike from multiple angles as opposed to our previous frontal blunder.   [Dolen casts 2nd level spell Pass without a trace on himself Killian and Krod]   Our entrance to the swamp is met with a familiar sight, Rotbranchs foreboding, colossal and twisted form like that of an over-sized hangmans tree. The stench of death in the air. The deafening silence followed by occasional creaking of the branches and buzzing of bugs. Dolen leads the way and at the mouth of the swamp heads west, I move along the south side. Damn it ! It seems like the other treants that Rotbranch awoken are still animated, though they appear to be in a passive state. I hope they don't spot us... Ah yes ! Killian I'd forgotten, even after being granted the magical stealth still managed to clang his armor and alert the entire swamp to his presence... Right now I'd be cursing but this might just work in our favor... Lets pray the gods are watching over us !   Rotbranch move towards Killian, the lesser treants start to awaken and do the same. I can't see Dolen from my position and with his natural abilities i'd be hard pressed to see him anyway. I guess i'm on my own. Luckily the lesser treant was so distracted by Killian I'm able to slip past, Dolen's spell must still be active. I'm going to continue heading to the south of the swamp and try and come up behind Rotbranch...   [Killian draws the attention of 5 swarms of necrotic beetles, two lesser treants and Rotbranch]   [Dolen drops 2nd level spell Pass without a trace to cast Hunters mark and moves to engage to aid Killian. Krod uses 2nd level spell Invisibility to move further south circling behind Rotbranch]   [Killian attacks successfully using Divine strikes to cause more damage to the enemies]   By the sounds of battle north don't sound like the battle is going in our favor, again... Damn it ! This throws the cat among the birds again. I'm too far away to assist. What do I do now, my strategy has completely turned on its head !   [Killian escapes combat with the lesser treant and necrotic beetles by Dashing his full movement followed by the bonus action 2nd level spell Misty step to engage Rotbranch]   [Krod moves into a position and uses all charges of Welger's wand of lightning to cast an enhanced 5th level lightning bolt spell at Rotbranch, passing through it and hitting one of the lesser treants and destroying one of the nectrotic swarms]   [Dolen engages from the north west using his bow, Killian moves into engaged range and manages to strike Rotbranch down with the last his his Divine strikes, destroying the treant]   ...It's over !? I honestly thought we wouldn't be able to be victorious, especially after our previous defeat... 3 months... 3 months of killing and conflict finally put to an end, I think Dolen and Killian mirror myself, we all just stand there looking over this fallen tree with no words. Nothing. I think a minute goes by and we snap out of it, we go to our routine after combat. Killian drops to one knee and mutters a prayer, Dolen begins to immediately lookout for any other threats and I salvage what I can from the needless destruction... Note: I will acquire some of the necrotic branches from the lesser treants in use of crafting for later.   3 items are found... WAND OF ANIMATE DEAD Wand, rare (requires attunement by a spellcaster) This wand has 7 charges. While holding it, you can use an action to expend 1 or more of its charges to cast the animate dead spell from it. For 1 charge, you cast the 3rd-level version of the spell. You can increase the spell slot level by one for each additional charge you expend. The wand regains 1d6 + 1 expended charges daily at dawn. If you expend the wand's last charge, roll a d20. On a 1, the wand crumbles into ashes and is destroyed.   [Krod takes the True Heart magical item out of Rotbranches remains using Mage hand Cantrip]   ROTBRANCH’S TRUE HEART Staff, rare (requires attunement by a Druid) This staff is the true heart and spirit of the necrotic treant Rotbranch. It refers to itself as Strongbranch and its intelligence resides within the staff, allowing it to speak with the attuned druid.This staff can be wielded as a magic quarterstaff that grants a +2 bonus to attack and damage rolls made with it. While holding it, you have a +2 bonus to spell attack rolls. The staff has 10 charges for the following properties. It regains 1d6 + 4 expended charges daily at dawn. If you expend the last charge, roll a d20. On a 1, the staff loses its properties and becomes a nonmagical quarterstaff. Spells You can use an action to expend 1 or more of the staff's charges to cast one of the following spells from it, using your spell save DC: • animal friendship (1 charge) • awaken (5 charges) • barkskin (2 charges) • locate animals or plants (2 charges) • speak with animals (1 charge) • speak with plants (3 charges) • wall of thorns (6 charges). You can also use an action to cast the pass without trace spell from the staff without using any charges. Tree Form. You can use an action to plant one end of the staff in fertile earth and expend 1 charge to transform the staff into a healthy tree. The tree is 60 feet tall and has a 5-foot-diameter trunk, and its branches at the top spread out in a 20-foot radius. The tree appears ordinary but radiates a faint aura of transmutation magic if targeted by detect magic. While touching the tree and using another action to speak its command word, you return the staff to its normal form. Any creature in the tree falls when it reverts to a staff. Treant Form. No more than once a month you can use an action to plant one end of the staff in fertile earth and expend 10 charges to transform the staff into a treant, Strongbranch. The treant is friendly to you and remains for 1 minute. If Strongbranch is slain, the staff is destroyed. While touching the treant and using another action to speak its command word, you return the staff to its normal form. Any creature on the treant falls when it reverts to a staff.   GHOST GEM Wondrous Item, uncommon While looking like an oversized glass bead when empty, this gem is composed of crystalized magical force. You can use an action make a melee attack against an undead creature with the incorporeal movement ability or the amorphous ability of a shadow (or similar undead). you succeed, the creature must succeed on a DC 15 Charisma saving throw or be trapped within the gem. The trapped creature can be seen, albeit in a distorted way, within the gem. A trapped shadow makes the gem look as if it is filled with black ink while a gem holding a ghost might seem to contain a faintly luminous grey fog. The creature’s features can sometimes be seen, perhaps a tiny, twisted ghostly face pressed against the gem or ghostly talons scraping the gem. A trapped creature is aware of what is occurring around it, within the limits of its senses. It can, however, take no actions or reactions while contained. If it can make sounds, these can be heard by pressing the gem against your ear; this can allow communication with a trapped creature. A trapped creature can be released by speaking a command word while holding the gem or by breaking the gem. A ghost gem can be used as a sling stone, doing damage if it hits a target and taking the same damage. A ghost gem is AC 18 and takes 3 points of damage before shattering. A broken gem cannot be reused. You have no special control over a released creature; it will act in accord with its nature. Ghost gems are sometimes used in traps when having free roaming undead would be undesirable. Some assassins use these to make it appear that their target was the unfortunate victim of a random attack by undead.   ...Fascinating ! Truly Fascinating. Rotbranch was the corrupted form of the spirit of the treant known as Strongbranch. I wonder if this was due to the nature of its necrotic element, corrupting it over time or the wand of animate dead ? I suppose its time to report back to Ironroot on our bittersweet victory. Ximena, its astounding how she always turns up and disappears at the most convenient moments. I don't even need to look at the others to know we all stand in the same boat when it comes to her. Apparently our victory has been recognized by the town of Rell, at least we'll be on good terms with the folk when we arrive unlike Blaising Dell...   Shortly after Ximena takes her leave, Embler appears from almost nothingness. Ha ! Forest Goblins are just amazing ! Ironroot has requested to see us, probably to conclude our deal with the treant council and the Infernal forest. It's a quiet en route, the shock of 3 months of conflict is still slowly lifting from our shoulders, we've hardly spoken the whole journey. As we expect Ironroot appears and thanks us for our services to the forest. Naturally we inform Ironroot what we discover within Rotbranch (His true heart) and offer it back to the council. He denies this offer and grants us permission to wield the remaining powers of once former Strongbranch to aid us on our future endeavors. In honor of redeeming the forest.   Our business with the Treant council and the Infernal forest has concluded, we say our goodbyes to Embler too. Now to our next challenge civilization... Note: I do hope I find the Forest Goblins again in the future, I've learned so much and I'd love to learn more.    

... Shock and an overwhelming sense of doom falls on all of us, looking on the infernal forest and the undead hordes that have been raised. I wander if this will be my final entry...   The town of Rell have provided a bounty of resources and the men for us to withstand the oncoming conflict. Killian, Dolen and myself all agree that we might have to dip into our own pockets here to help keep everyone going.   I'm not going to lie, I think the Treants put too much belief in our group. This will be the first long-term conflict I've ever been in. I don't want to make assumptions about the other two but in know this is out of our skill set to handle... We made a promise. We must try !   ...   [Month 1]-The hordes have be driven back. From what we gathered at the start of the conflict, 5 major sections of the forest appear to be where all out battle will take place. We manage to push them back 2 sections and on the 3rd we don't make any ground forward. A stalemate for now...   [Month 2]-Despite making up another 2 sections of ground (section 4), the battle takes a turn for the worst and we are pushed back 3 sections. We've lost an irreplaceable amount lives, resources and time. Killian, Dolen and myself have poured multiple of our own resources and lead multiple charges with no avail. This maybe the end...   [Month 3]-We did it ! After making up just 1 section of the forest and reaching another stalemate, by the end of the month we make the final push and we are victorious. If you can call it that, we have faced the horrors of the infernal forest and paid for it with a piece of our souls. It wont be the same for me after this, my journey, my mission has changed... I wanted to give it the benefit of the doubt but now one things for sure I will burn Rotbranch down for this atrocity...   Clean up takes a few days. We help the Rell militia dispose of the corpses properly and afterwards take a moment to breathe. We all take a moment in silence to gather ourselves. We are bound by a letter, a coin and a common origin as orphans. After the 3 months of battle, We've had to trust one another as brothers in arms. It's time they know the truth...   [Krod, Killian and Dolen share their origins with one another]   Its time to get to the "root" of this problem, Rotbranch itself. The far reaches of the forest hide a marsh. This is where the the final confrontation will occur. The marshes look fairly silent, we all decide to go stealthy just to be sure as the swarms of necrotic beetles litter the area...   Blast it ! The swarms have spotted us... Wait ! what the Hell is that ! Go Matilda !   Damn these swarms are so hard to destroy ! A Corpseflower ! Of all the things to conjure ! Dolen's been taken ! We need to end this quickly we've not even got to Rotbranch yet !   We must rest before our final encounter.   ...   Its time... Rotbranch at last, it is monolithic in size compared to the other trees in the forest. This withered tree looks warped and twisted despite being an organism of life I can feel the negative energy in the air surrounding this place like a fog seeping into everything and spreading like an infection.   ... "No Mercy" [Krod opens up with a Enhanced 5th level lightning bolt cast from Welgar's Wand of Lightening-The wand is weaved into the chest of Krods armor and is fired from a node in the center] [Throughout the battle several swarms of nectrotic beetles move into range and so does Rotbranch]   [Killian moves up into attack range and strikes Rotbranch true with radiant energy with a Divine strike] [Rotbranch Summons 3 juvenile treants to protect him-The battle begins to turn against the party]   [Dolen falls in battle and Matilida is destroyed-Krod also falls shortly after-Killian within close proximity manages to raise Krod and the party manages to escape as Rotbranch and its minions almost kill them-Krod casts invisiblity on himself and barely misses an attack as he escapes-Killian with an immense effort rips Dolen away and out of the danger]   ... We underestimated the Treants power, we have to to re-think our strategy. Next time we'll be ready...

... We head towards the north eastern area of the forest. I assume Ironroot is gathering this 'council' of the forest. Ah ! its Embler. Here to lead us the rest of the if i was to guess ? It doesn't shock me anymore, the ability these forest goblins to disappear and reappear is incredible. He leads us into a clearing... Fascinating ! Treants, by the look of them they possess unique properties. Embler drops to his knees, I suppose to him these Treants are the representation of the Infernal forest itself. Ironroot the iron oak Treant introduces the council. Tallflower the radiant Treant Phorphor: the fire Treant Haroom: the thunder Treant Azolt: the lightning Treant Willowbark: the bow tree Treant Frostbough: the frost Treant There is a mention of three other who aren't present at this council one of which Rotbranch we are told they believe is the cause of the necrotic problems of spreading rot and undead in the forest and beyond. We can't let that happen. Rotbranch: necrotic treant (not on the council) Greenwalk: poison treant (reclusive) Corosha: acid treant (reclusive) The coucil has no doubt that Rotbranch is the cause and ask us for help. I think all of us are in agreement that after the hospitality we've received after such a long list terrible events, its the very least we can do. We are to meet up with Ximena and a small militia form the town of Ryll at the northern borders. Naturally we ask how much the Treants trust Ximena, Killian tells them all of our exploits, that our trust in others is waning. They've known her since she was a small child and she act as a sort of emissary of the town and the forest. I suppose we have no choice but to trust their judgement. Between myself and Dolen I know we'll still be on alert. After the council meeting is concluded, Embler is tasked with taking us there... -Note-The Treants of the Infernal forest not only have ancient intelligence and wisdom but the elemental nature they possess seem to influence their personalities. The knowledge of this will be useful if we ever talk to Rotbranch and discover its true plans or why now hes become more bold. We have been granted permission to use full force and even destroy Rotbranch, an interesting request from a creature of growth and life. The techniques to harvest and work with the wood from elemental trees is a boon to my work and development, however until this issue is resolved I feel it isn't my place to get distracted too much. Once this is over i will be asking the councils permission to work with the elemental trees. I will take what I can get though, I need to learn !   We appear to have entered a clearing and see a line of bright lush trees surrounded by the most beautiful radiant Butterfly's and in the distance dark twisted trees surrounded by black swarms of beetles and what appears to be 3 Zombies. After what the council has just told us the forest is at war and I think we've entered a battlefield... -Note-Radiant Trees and Butterfly's are friendly, there appears to be no repulsion or act of reprisal when we get close. We can use them for cover if needed and use them to spread ourselves around the battlefield. The Necrotic Trees send out a repulsion field that matches its element, similar to the defense mechanisms of the Lightning and Thunder trees. Maybe I can make use out of the wood once we've dealt with the immediate threat ?   ...Embler is gone again, this might be another test.   ...Damn it! Not very quick off the mark.   [Dolen moves in and fires his bow and Killian moves in and engages with his holy spell sword and shield. The giant elk also engages]   [Krod casts 4th level Lightning bolt from Welger's Wand of Lightning witch counts as a 5th level spell when cast from the wand. For flavor the head of the wand is incorporated into Krod's armor and is embedded into the center of his chest plate, this is where the bolt of lightning is fired from and is a bright white beam that hits a swarm, a zombie and a tree]   [Dolen casts Faerie Fire at 1st level catching 2 trees 2 swarms and a zombie]   [Krod casts Catapult at 2nd level firing a bottle of Alchemists fire at the tree in the center. For flavor Krod's hands glow dark pink and charge the object with the same energy and the launches the object] [The Tree Fella scorpion is commanded to take down one of the trees, its immunity allows it to engage the tree by itself without concern of elemental damage]   ... I don't know how but we're actually doing a good job of this... It also helps helps having a giant magical elk and a construct designed for cutting down trees but nevertheless...   ... We did it and of course Embler appears just as we finish. Oh well ! -Note-I've managed to gather the husks of the radiant butterfly's and the necrotic beetles, like the lightning and thunder bugs i might be able to derive a magical property from them. The necrotic wood on the other hand posses a different challenge, its not the fact I have to discover what I can learn from it, its actually working with the wood in question. Despite the necessary precautions I've taken to handle the wood it still has enough potency to cause me harm, perhaps when this is over a may discover more about how to work with elemental tree wood. He leads us on to meet up with Ximena and the militia, its a hill top overlooking a part of the forest. Appearing from the opposite direction is the group but before a word is spoken all of our eyes are cast on the horizon as the forest itself seems to be moving. It suddenly sinks in that its not the forest but what is moving within. Hordes of the Undead...   ...

...Galasha leads us deeper into the goblin village. It is a sigh of relief for us and a welcome sight to see goblins just going about their business and that our presence doesn't cause unrest. Galasha gestures to a some goblins known as Julga the Herbalist and Tylge the Smith. We meet with the village elder first, we are informed the name of this Chief is Gugena. considering the aid and trust the forest goblins have put in us, I suggest to Dolen and Killian that we are completely honest. I hope they understand that our reservation isn't taken as offence. -Note-A potential amazing opportunity presents itself to me personally. Learning unique crafting techniques from Tylge the smith and possibly Julga the herbalist. Its a rare occurrence that outsiders are allowed within the reclusive goblin communities and rarer still, outsiders being allowed to interact with the residents.   Chief Gugena informs us that the Infernal forest is in need of our aid. A being by the name of Ironroot has requested to speak with us. The way Gugena talks about Ironroot, I would assume that this character represents the will of the forest, whether it being on some sort of council or a higher authority. It is curious that they trust us with their business and possible issues, however the events that brought us together lie a quarter of a world away. After the events that occurred in Blaisingdell I think accumulating allies isn't a bad thing. -Note-A name comes up in the meeting that does peak our interest. Ximena. The leader of the Foresters and Woodsmen. After the events at the camp we assumed everyone was killed including her. Now we discover they have been in negotiations and with the town of Writh.. I know that Dolen, Killian and I find this suspicious, how she got away and requires further investigating.   [Killian, Dolen and Krod are given time within the goblin village with Galasha before the meeting with Ironroot]   I kindly ask my companions that we make a trip to the smith and they oblige, I am so grateful as whatever I learn may benefit us all in the long run. My curiosity is peaked to learn goblin crafting techniques. They also take an immediate interest in the wand, special tool and Tree Feller Scorpion. We are all informed that a Wizard by the name of Welger was the creator of these items and that they hold some hidden benefits linked to his work as a wand maker. Killian produces the curious items we found on the "slavers" by the Blaisingdell Mill. The reaction we get to the Dragon fang causes quite the stir, it is a symbol of the Goblin God of War Maglubiyet and that the forest goblins and other have freed themselves from the Gods grasp. A symbol like this is considered a bad Omen. After the time spent learning these fantastic facts and techniques Galasha informs us that the meeting is imminent and that we should leave. -Note-Tylge is an intriguing creature, It is unfortunate that communication is a struggle. Its as almost as if crafting and construction is a feeling or spiritual thing to them. Whereas I apply a logical and scientific approach. Despite our setbacks I am gifted a new wealth of knowledge. Being taught to be able to craft items using the wood of the Energy trees. They provide benefits equal to their elemental properties, however working with such a volatile material come at the cost of suffering from the effect yourself. I also gifted the full benefits of the heirlooms left by Welger the Wizard. -Welger's Wand of Lightning Wand, rare (requires attunement by a Spellcaster). The woodworking wand wizard Welger spent his life making wands from the wood of the energy trees growing around his tower. This wand was his best work and has qualities that set it apart from lesser wands. This wand has 8 charges. While holding it, you can use an action to expend 1 or more of its charges to cast the lightning bolt spell (save DC 16) from it. For 1 charge, you cast the 4th-level version of the spell. You can increase the spell slot level by one for each additional charge you expend. The wand does an additional point of damage per damage die rolled. The wand regains 1d6 + 1 expended charges daily at dawn. If you expend the wand's last charge, roll a d20. On a 1, the wand casts lightning bolt towards you then crumbles into ashes and is destroyed. -Welger's Wrench Wand, rare (requires attunement by a Spellcaster). To keep his constructs in good working order, Welger created a magical wrench. This wand has 7 charges. While holding it, you can use an action to expend 1 or more of its charges to touch a construct and repair it. For each charge expended, the construct regains 1d8 hit points. While holding it, you can take an hour to expend 7 of its charges to work on a “dead” construct and restore it to “life” with 1 hit point, provided it has been “dead” no longer than 10 days. If the construct has a soul, it must be willing and able to rejoin its body. Soulless constructs automatically return to life. This magic also neutralizes any poisons and cures nonmagical diseases that affected the construct at the time it died. It doesn't, however, remove magical diseases, curses, or similar effects; if these aren't first removed prior to restoring the construct, they take effect when it returns to life. The spell can't return an undead creature to life. This magic closes all mortal wounds, but it doesn't restore missing parts. If the creature is lacking parts integral for its survival--its head, for instance—the magic automatically fails. The wand regains 1d6 + 1 expended charges daily at dawn. If you expend the wand's last charge, roll a d20. On a 1, the wand crumbles into rust and is destroyed. -Welger's Amulet of Command Wondrous Item, uncommon (requires attunement). Faced with the danger inherent to harvesting energy trees, the wood working wand wizard Welger built a scorpion-like construct to safely fell the trees. To control the construct, Welger made his amulet of command. On each of your turns, you can use a bonus action to mentally command the tree feller scorpion if it is within 60 feet of you. You decide what action it will take and where it will move during its next turn, or you can issue a general command, such as to guard a particular chamber or corridor. If you issue no commands, it only defends itself against hostile creatures. Once given an order, the scorpion continues to follow it until its task is complete. The Dragon fangs discovery provides us with evidence of a possible cult/secret organisation that could be uncovered if we find any involvement of Maglubiyet's influence and a possible way of infiltration into said groups if we need to delve further.   Galasha leads us away from the goblin village deeper into the forest...   By the Gods ! Ironroot is a Treant...   Well at this point I don't think holding anything back is an option. Killian seems to have taken that a bit literally. Its a good thing that he was honest and that this thing can see through the over-embellishment. After that trilling story... Ironroot gets to business and asks for our help to eliminate a necrotic possible necromancy problem plaguing the Infernal Forest. We all agree, in return for the aid they've given us already and possibly more in the future. A meeting is to take place that we're invited to to discuss the issues, perhaps we should ask Ximena how she got away when no one else did ? -Note-Ironroot tells us about the Iron and Bow trees created by Leluna a mage that cultivated unique traits into the trees on the borders of the Infernal Forest near the town of Writh. Developed to provide quicker construction of ship hulls and masts, shields, bows, siege weapons and fortifications. This rare wood is weaker than the standard materiel used in the construction of these items but allows more flexibility in it applications.   Our meeting concludes with Ironroot disappearing into the Infernal Forest. Galasha points us the direction to take to get to the meeting, she also inform us of a ruin nearby that if we were to clear it would be beneficial however a tale about a the ruin exists about the wealthy family that were murdered there by a begrudged wizard that cursed them to never rest. Dolen, Killian and I agree on-route to take a look into this haunted place. Ironroot mentioned a necrotic problem, solving this minor problem may add more confidence in our ability to help.   ...This place feels wrong. There appears to be a magical perimeter determined by the pillars with the skulls mounted on them. Breaking this magical line could lead to multiple negative outcomes. We need to investigate the pillars furth... Ah !!! -Note-It appears that one spirit here remains sane enough to warn us away. More spirits appear and are unable to move past the magical line, they advise us to topple the pillars. This gives us the information we needed to keep them contained at least. Why would Galasha send us here ? There is a chance we won't be able to cleanse it ?   Dolen and Killian broke the line, chivalrous fools !... Damn it ! Wisps and they're bloody engaging ! We need to take care of this -Note-The Wisps are incorporeal and its very difficult to hit them through conventional means. My spells fired through the barrier seem to change either their innate properties or color, either way magical attacks appear to be the most effective.   ... That was an awful experience. Dolen fell again. I need to find a way to help him ! The Wisp that maintained its sanity explains that the pillars are to be destroyed to cleanse the ruin. Apparently her family was decorated for there service during the war decades ago and were awarded wealth as well as this land they reside at the expense of another family. A descendant of which still carried a grudge and so murdered and cursed the souls never to rest... ... Terrible... At least now they may rest -Note- The Wisp awarded us for our service, a bitter sweet experience but not unwelcome. She described a secret compartment at the base of a broken statue within the ground and how to access it. Within the compartment is: A bag of holding. [Within the bag] -Bundle of legal and financial documents, including the deeds to the retreat and property in the city. -10 100 gp gems -50 platinum pieces -250 gp ring -A suit of adamantine chainmail armor -250 gp in scattered coins, gems and jewelry   ...

... It seems that what we've been hearing at the camp is none other than a rare but natural phenomenon. One tree infused with the energy of lightning and another smaller tree with energy of thunder. There isn't a lot of information about these trees, giving it a wide berth seems to be the most intelligent option. The area nearby might be a good idea to set up camp to rest. The illusion of bad weather emanating from these trees could provide a natural deterrent against predators and other threats. -Note- While we're here I would like to observe and study as much of these trees as possible. I wonder if the wood extracted from the tree keeps its properties. I can see multiple applications in the use of this material.   Ah ! Swarms of literal lightning bugs...   We seem to be in a tricky situation. Mainly that we can't bloody hit them !   Damn it ! Dolen is down !... What the ? Oh fantastic now we have literal swarms of thunder bugs to deal with !   Ugh ! After that fiasco, we finally can take a moment to breath. Thanks to Dolens' lack of caution we know to stay at least 30ft away from the trees. We set up camp nearby and actually manage to get some rest. -Note- Collecting the bug husks might prove beneficial in the future. Who knows what magical properties can be extracted and repurposed. I don't want to get close to the trees as it appears a natural aura surrounds them, possibly as a form of protection ? The wood from the trees seems to have kept its natural properties. This means that it has to be treated with care because who knows what could happen once the wood has been detached from the tree. I can't study it now! I need time in a more secure environment but I am excited as to what mysteries can be unlocked.   After conferring with Killian and Dolen we decide the best course of action is to keep heading north/north west through the forest. Perhaps we might be lucky enough to come across the forest goblin village that Embler granted us access to. All I know is that every time we think we're safe, fate has other ideas. On this occasion maybe fate is on our side. Killian has managed to summon up a giant Elk. This will make travel a lot more swift... ... Interesting! We've stumbled upon a statue of a figure holding what appears to be a wand up high and a weapon or tool I've never seen before. Naturally we all approach with caution...   The area is guarded. From what I can determine, as it emerges from the earth, is a strange construct in the form of a scorpion. Instead of a stinger it has a buzzing saw. -Note- This construct looks old. It doesn't seem to be aggressive but definitely on the defensive. Its activation happened when we got closer to the statue. I want to attempt to communicate with it. A construct such as this needs to be studied, understood and preserved.   Argh ! It's attacking. Damn it all ! I wanted to avoid this. Looks like my curiosity will have to wait until this construct is non functional. I don't want to risk my companions safety - even for a discovery such as this.   [Killian sends the giant elk to attack the Tree Feller Scorpion construct, followed by attacks from Killian himself. After the previous encounter, Dolen stays at range firing with his bow. Krod uses a scroll of Acid Splash on the Tree Feller Scorpion construct and discovers its resistance to elemental damages.   It's done. Wicked waste... I can't let an opportunity like this pass. I just can't. That being said my companions take priority, We are together in this. I just hope they see the benefits of any potential discovery. They allow my study. For their trust I will be certain to repay them. -Note- The statue houses a Wand of lightning bolts. This shall be attuned and incorporated into my arcane armor as I did with the Wand of magic missiles. A boon that can allow me to enhance my lightning launcher. The statue also houses from what I see now, a tool used in the either the construction, maintenance or even worship of the Construct. After careful study I actually manage to use the tool to repair the construct and bring it under my command. This isn't just a monumental achievement but it's also a boon to the group as a whole.   [Krod sets command word as Deforestation]   It's Embler ! I don't want to know how long he's been watching us fumble around. He has offered to lead us to his village, fortuitous as we have just be trusting our instincts thus far and its done nothing but lead us into almost deadly encounters. I sense no malice from Embler. However we are being lead to a goblin village anything could happen ?   Finally we meet with Galasha the Tree Talker. Let's see what she has to say...

...We're surrounded ! Blast it ! There's more at the entrance ! We won't survive unless I need to buy us more time ! [Krod casts 2nd level spell Web at the entrance to the encampment to stop the second group from entering-The Web spell appears as an * icon on Krods gauntlet that glows white and when cast is summoned at the position that it's cast at]   The cook ?! Really ?! Shes behind this slaughter ?! ...Well she wasn't much of a cook anyway, I suppose we we've only one objective now ! Damn it ! We're still getting stuck by arrows and she's burnt the Web ! We're going to be overrun !   Dolen isn't looking good and yells for us all to run. I don't like to flee from a fight but I have to agree. I care for the well being of my new companions but its every man for themselves at this point this is a fight with the odds stacked against us. -Note-Additional to the skeletons are the summoned shadows that are resistant to our regular strikes. This is incredibly problematic as my colleagues have limited magical abilities to defeat such adversaries.   [The 2nd level Web spell has burned away and the other group of undead start to move in]   Dolen shrouds himself with his innate magical ability to create a small void of darkness. Excellent strategy ! The creatures cannot see in magical darkness. I see Killian being surrounded and the sphere of darkness Dolen created moving towards him. I assume the distraction and obstruction will provide them enough time to escape... What the ?! Ah ! Killian's teleportation, I see he's heading for the encampment walls. I cannot wait any longer, I've got to get over the wall too... -Note-I have a theory that Lelasha the cook is controlling this hoard somehow. She does not seem to be holding concentration on an ongoing spell, which must mean she has another method of control ? If we had a more advantageous position in this combat we might've been able to test this theory.   That Blundering Oaf ! Killian has decided to take on Lelasha and her guard by himself. It appears to have the same idea I had about her controlling the horde. I have to admire that ridiculous fool. His bravery is to be commended. I can't leave him now. I've got to help him ! [Krod cast's 1st level spell Faerie Fire on Lelasha, Skeleton Captain, Summoned Shadow and a group of skeleton warriors-The Faerie Fire spell uses the gem like node in Krods palm to fire his Lightning Launcher. A gem in one palm glows blue and ignites in blue fire and the gem in the other glows green and ignites in green fire. Krod grips his hands together until the combined fire becomes violet and projects it]   Wow ! Killian is lucky to have that innate ability to project a magical shield... Ah ! Bloody Hell ! It's Dolen thank the Gods ! Not good he looks almost dead...I think that now we have on opening now, we have to try to 'cut the head off the snake' so to speak.   Killian won't last much longer. I need to try and end this... [Krod cast's 2nd level Catapult spell-Krod pulls out a 10 foot metal chain, pink runes appears on the knuckles of Krods gauntlets. Krod runs his hand down the chain charging the chain with pink energy and launches the chain]   Got the Bitch ! ...Control of the horde hasn't lifted though ?! Killian suggests the skeleton captain. I wonder if the adrenaline of combat improves his intelligence ?   Yes ! The Captain is defeated !... No ! Their Swarming !... We need to get out of here now !... RUN !!! -Note-The skeleton captain appears to given the skeleton horde direction. With its destruction the horde have become mindless attacking the nearest living creature. This would've been advantageous if we had taken out the captain first. The horde would've turned against Lelasha.   [Killian, Dolen and Krod run and head 2 hours out into the forest away from the encampment to escape] ...We have no choice but to brave the forest at night. We know there is another encampment a few hours away and decide as group to get there as swiftly as possible. We're being watched ? We can all see twinkling red and yellow eyes. The good news is that it isn't the undead horde, bad news we don't know whats out there, beaten, bloodied and no energy left we cant take any chances, we cant engage. -Note-Dolen decides to try and get the drop on whatever is tracking us. To help I use my minor magical ability to make a stone glow and toss it. This I hope will cause enough distraction by engaging with whatever is out there for Dolen to disappear.   Forest Goblins ! An unexpected development. Embler the Forest Stalker, the leader of this party informs us they've been tracking us for some time. Embler appears to be negotiable and has some sense of honor as he hasn't attacked us yet. He can see how beaten we are we're not a threat to him. After explaining what has happened to us in the past few hours and that we came from the foresters encampment having to fight our way out he informs us they've wiped out the the undead horde. A relief as we can now make our way back instead of finding our way through the forest. -Note-Forest Goblins are masters of stealth in their natural environment and even though Dolen disappeared expertly, he never stood a chance getting the drop on these creatures. Embler has given us safe passage through his village if we come across it. If we are to be approached he has given us the name of Galasha the Tree Talker to use. This is a massive sign of respect as we are outsiders. As a reclusive culture maybe they have unseen methods of crafting I can observe and learn ?   ...What an horrific sight. The encampment is littered with bodies and undead remnants. I persuade the others to tidy up this mess, search for the personnel belongings of the woodsman and foresters, if we are to report what has happened here there is at least some closure. So we don't get any unexpected guests we burn the bodies and in this instance Killian muttering a prayer is welcomed...   ...Thunder ? It's coming from the north. That's not natural, that's magical ? Embler's village is that way too. I suppose the path is laid out for us now...

...What a dreadful experience. All in one piece I see. We're appear to be exactly where we were in the forest just after the Redcap ambush, surrounded by the different colored mushrooms. -Note-The ring of wishes is an extremely powerful magical item. I know from my studies that once all wishes are used nothing and I mean nothing can replenish its ability to function unless a completely new ring or object is created. Nevertheless I will keep the ring to study and determine if its construction can be originated to a source in this world.   We appear to have company ! There seems to be no rest for us...   Woodsman and Foresters by the look of their garb. That's not what made the roar though, they seem to either be on the hunt or being hunted. Despite the innocent and plausible nature of this group Killian, Dolen and I will still not drop our guard. Not after everything we've just experienced.   We are told the by a human women Ximena the leader of the group that the Woodsman and Foresters she leads work for the noble family in the nearby town of Pernrith on the outskirts of the forest in the search of a very valuable tree that only grows here. Here being the Infernal Forest. -Note-At a glance I'd say Ximena is a Druid or Ranger of some kind, she appears to have a bond or has bonded to a wolf that she calls Obol. I have heard and read about the benefits of having a familiar or bonded creature. Channeling magic, seeing through their eyes, providing help and distraction. Perhaps there's a way for me to construct a familiar as I lack the capibilities to magically summon one ?   Ugh ! More questions.   How did we get so far away Blaisingdell ? How did we survive the execution of the Blaisingdell Gurad ? How were we abducted and transformed by the Necromancer Heldrian ? Why is this all happening to us ? The only thing we have in common is that dammed letter ?   Beaten, lost and tired, we have no choice but to ally ourselves with this group. Whilst on the trail, Killian regales them of our over-exaggerated exploits. We travel for the rest of the day and a rudimentary camp has already been established by the other half of the group. Ximena allows us to have some of their food and informs us that their job is being hindered by a creature that is preventing them to make a solid base to set up their operation. The creature in question is an Owlbear. To pay our way so to speak we all agree to take care of the Owlbear, with Dolen's expertise as a hunter I believe we have an advantage. We dont know if we can trust these folks so we take it in turns to watch each others backs. To keep occupied I ask Dolen to help me perfect more Alchemical learning. -Note-Always read the fine print especially when a person you've never met is being charitable. 90% of the time they always want something in return or at least guilt you into it. Taking care of this Owlbear may increase our reputation as reliable folks in the local area and any resources we gain along the way can help us in our en devours to unlock the mystery of Blaisingdell and the letters. Hunting an Owlbear is a good field test for my secondary Arcane armor and Infusions. I've reconfigured my Lightning launchers from a ranged weapon into a melee weapon I call Thunder gauntlets. The pay off is that my armor is not as maneuverable but this is where my infusions come in to pick up the slack. Hunting requires us to be quiet so I've infused my crossbow with a rune of repetition that allows multiple bolts to be fired and not reload. Another is an infusion is to my boots that allow a minor amount of teleportation however its more a fast retreat than reposition or advancement on foes.   The Hunt begins, we set off ahead in front of the woodsman and foresters. Dolen leads the way of course. It doesn't take us long to find the beasts lair, I can see that Dolen has his reservations about the whole thing as he rushes ahead probably to try and subdue the beast before Killian and myself get involved.   Excellent ! Dolen has found its lair... By the Gods ! The Owlbear is bigger than I thought !... Oh that Bloody Elf ! Blundering in by himself ! Damn it all !...   ... Oh ! Just in the nick of time Ximena turns up ! But only after myself and my colleagues get ripped apart and fall and after I end up caving the beasts head in they're regretful that we couldn't find another way to deal with the beast. Everyone's a critic. At least now we can make some progress. -Note-Owlbear pelt is decent money but I have no time to recover it. Unfortunate as different quality leathers provide versatility in crafting and producing items. My field test on my secondary Arcane armor has yielded interesting results. Despite accommodating for my lack of a range strike with my enhanced crossbow, the Lightning launcher provides more solid results striking out using instinct as oppose to skill and being able to channel an excess lightning charge is always beneficial. On top of this my Thunder gauntlets on my secondary armor provide the same amount of damage as my Battleaxe which provide me a melee option, I also have the advantage to channel my innate magic through this weapon allowing a versatile fighting style. I shall reconfigure back to my primary armor when the chance to rest.   After our slog through the forest we come upon the main encampment.... says this is to be the base of operations within the Infernal forest but it is incomplete. To help get the operation going and to build up our already growing reputation. Dolen and I make ourselves useful. Dolen joins the hunting parties as we have increased the amount of mouth's to feed. I put my basic skills to work and help foresters build the encampment walls. Killian preaches and prays... I have no words... A day of solid labor is good brake for the mind and after some good food I have the good Dolen to thank its a welcome reprieve from our current predicaments. I shall revert my armor back to its primary, swap out an invocation and cantrip or two then rest...   What the ! Ugh ! Why has Dolen woke us up in the middle of the night. I think the death of the Owlbear has gotten to him, I mean what could possibly be wrong now... Shit !   Undead everywhere ! Surrounded ! The Woodsman. The Foresters they're all dead. Blast it all !... Mmmm well some small consolation is that Killian knew all along. Thanks Killian ! I hope we live long enough for us thank you !...            

Ugh ! I feel terrible... Oh ! What Now !... Ah ! My hands...   By the Gods ! A Bloody Ghoul is tied up next to me ! I've got to get out of my bindings and find the others. This room is dark and dank. A smell of death hangs in the air and with the only light coming from a nearby torch I'd hazard a guess we're somewhere underground in a Dungeon or Tomb of some kind ? -Note-I've encountered a few Ghouls in my travels, but I've never met one that is quite so placid. They're normally aggressive and attack on sight. Time is of the essence but I will do a quick study of this Ghoul and the surrounding area to determine possible chemical or mental influence.   By the Gods ! My hands. I have claws ? My skin. Oh no !...   I cant think about this right now. I've got to find the other two and get out of here. I just hope nothing bad has happened to them !   Bloody Hell ! Dolen is the Ghoul ! Ha ! Well at least I don't have to go looking for him now,. He doesn't seem to know what's going on either. It appears we're both in the same situation. No sign of Killian but I'm grateful not to be alone in this horrible place. -Note-Discovering Dolen as a Ghoul is bizarre. His voice and intelligence has remained the same and what I feared about myself is true too, I appear to be a Ghast hence the claws. My voice and intelligence has remained too. My theory points towards a form of necromancy ? Our consciousness has remained but our original Vessel's have been changed.   Damn it ! Augusten I knew you held a grudge but I didn't think you'd stoop this far...   The claws definitely help releasing the bindings. The room holds no clues to help our current situation. Just an abundance of dead bodies. We find a key to unlock the cadged door to this room - we're in. Dolen and I concur we're in some kind of dungeon and we must get out ! Ugh ! I stink ! Ah ! It appears our exit is blocked by a giant Zombie. This will be interesting ! -Note-In our new vessels Dolen and I have lost connection to the magic we wield. From what I know of these undead creatures their claws carry a level of petrifaction that can cause paralysis on a strike and the overbearing smell from myself appears to be potent enough to have poisonous properties.   A Ghost ! Killian is a Ghost... I have no words... Hahaha ! "Killian you look even more handsome than you were before" Thank you Dolen ! I needed that. Killian seems to have come from another part of this pit we find ourselves in. The rooms provide no more clues as to where we might be. -Note-A benefit to our situation is that Killian can move through walls as a Ghost. This will help us scout ahead for dangers that can be encountered. Another benefit that I've only read about is that some ghosts can possess other beings. This maybe key in reversing the ritual, curse or whatever has happened to us.   Despite our undead forms we appear to be making progress. We have managed to slay another undead creature who appears to be on guard. More corpses, a couple of humanoids and a horse. Cutting and dissecting apparatus suggest we are definitely in the lair of a necromancer or cult of somekind. Contents of the storage cupboard adjacent to the "lab" A Rangers Cloak-This must belong to the poor soul we found. A golden ring with three inlaid stones. Two of the stones are dull, but one glows faintly-There's something about this ring I cant put my finger on ? -Note-I'm not educated in the school of necromancy but from what I can gather from the collection of books and diagrams suggest a crude formula to create skeletal/undead servants.   Augusten is a bitter, insufferable, stuck up, entitled pointy eared bastard but he would not stoop this low as to use necromancy as a way of getting one up on me. I can imagine to him, the school of necromancy is dirty and a waste of magical ability. Why try to master death when you can find a way to live forever...   We've found our equipment ! This is a small consolation as we still remain within the Ghoul, the Ghast and The Ghost. Killian suggested an interesting theory that the undead creatures slain may represent the blank gems and that we need to slay a final one to break the spell or curse ? I don't think this is related to the ring. Again there's something about it i can't put my finger on ?... I can only speculate and take one step at a time at this point. At this time I'm willing to take faith in my companions speculations.   A necromancer ! We have you now... -Note-A master stroke from Killian. He had the foresight to use his ghostly form to possess the stitched monster, Heldrian dubbed his "darling". Ironic that he should be killed by the very creature he created. Well done Killian, I swear he's more effective as a ghost than he was as a human. Perhaps I should study some of theses ancient Tomes to see if I can craft some form of Ectoplasmic weapon, armor or tool for him ?   Contents of the Necromancer Heldrian and his ritual chamber. Helm of Comprehend Languages A leather purse with 1 gp, 14 sp, 3 cp, and a small green jade stone (value 3 gp). Heldrian’s spell book is clad in burgundy leather. A Scroll of Create Undead. Heldrian’s non-magical books-contents of which are arcane lore, necromancy, and anatomy subjects. Most of the books are in poor condition-worth up to 300 gp to the right collector.   Heldrians death hasn't broken our spell or curse ? Perhaps his sleeping quarters may provide answers ?   Contents of Heldrian personal chamber. Potion of Water Breathing. Potion of Greater Healing. Elixir of Health. Scroll of Acid Splash.   Useful tools but nothing to reverse the spell or curse upon us ? Going outside has not changed us either ? We cannot determine were we are either. If we were to leave this place as the creatures we are, we will surely be killed ! Why have not we not reverted back !? What have we missed !? The Ring ! I remember now ! In my studies of magical items there was a ring that existed that granted the user 3 wishes, the gems on the ring represent the charges or uses left. We have one use...   I hope this works...      

... Argh ! I'm alive ! ... What is happening ! ... I can't see ! ... I feel the earth ! ... I've got to get out !   [Krod use's a combination of his natural strength and innate telekinetic power to emerge from his shallow grave]   ... The see the others climb out of their shallow graves too. It's good that we're all back together despite our predicament. We're not dead it seems but we're in a bad way. No sign of Blaisingdell, in fact I don't think we are even in the same region anymore, neither myself or my companions can to determine our exact location. -Note Upon inspection of the surrounding area there are no tracks or traces of our murderers to be found. This raises a lot of questions. I believe what I see with my own senses and I know I have a lot to learn about the complexities of the Arcane but I can't deny a possible supernatural element beyond explanation at work here because we should be dead. Fact.   Dolen is back to leading the way, even with his mastery of tracking and hunting he seems to be at a loss. A main road cuts through the land and there are forests to the north and to the south that will provide us with shelter. At a glance the forest to the south seems to be more abundant in terms of growth, more life means more resources. Almost dead and Dolen still insists on scouting ahead. Then again its probably a good thing as Killian is as subtle as a hammer on iron and that's just his personality. An Inn in this desolate place ? Damn it all ! At this point we can't be picky, we all agree we have no choice but to take shelter here as out in the open we are vulnerable.   Like everything else in this region the Inn the name of which is called The Voyager appears to be just as desolate. Upon entering there's no one to be found and then out of nothing appears a Human who calls himself Jonas. Not a very charismatic individual, in fact he seems to emotionally void which is fantastic entertainment as Killian attempts to this charm this pillar of stone. He provides us with a room and food. He's vague on the details of payment and that put everyone of us on edge. Nothing in life is free but we have nowhere else to go. -Note Due to the lack of staff and patrons I suspect that this Inn is magical in nature. Listening to Jonas describe The Voyager. A theory of mine suggests is that the Inn appears to travelers who are in dire need and Jonas is either a mage of some kind or magical being who is connected to the Inn itself. Whether this is safe place is yet to be determined. For all we know this is an illusion put in place to lure us in to our final end. A curious tip-jar lies on a table at the bottom of the staircase on a small table with a code, the numbers 0023481. Killian dumps 10 Gold pieces into the jar. I suspect this will determine how comfortable our stay is ?   Despite the comfort the room will provide us we all search it for possible traps or hidden areas. Nothing to be found so we all get ourselves cleaned up washing of the dirt and blood and head down for our food, possibly our last.   Jonas seemingly appearing out of thin air again provides us with a menu and multiple options. An establishment like this must have a hidden cost to it ? Killian decides to pay for our drinks and food. I'm too tired to argue so I accept his hospitality. -Note the supernatural element seems to be becoming more plausible as the fire in the hearth changes colour when Killian makes his prayers. There are alchemical agents that can cause this to happen but the lack of agents being present and coincidence of the flame change can't be ignored. The food order is as follows; Killian-Mallard thighs cooked in a sweet vodka sauce served with a whole-grain muffin-4 sp-Pirate's Rusty Red-2 sp-Orange Quince Whiskey-1 sp. Dolen-Duck breast sauteed in a velvety cheese sauce served with a slice of swiss cheese-6sp-Sour Mossy Mead-4sp-Orange Quince Whiskey-1 sp. Krod-Charred flumphs cooked in a wine sauce served with a piece of wheat bread-6 sp-Mind Flayer Psychic Ale-1sp-Orange Quince Whiskey-1 sp.   Its a good to be alone with my new companions, share a possible one final meal and fine drink without the cares of the world outside. We decide on a watch rotation and to fortify the room... I just hope we see another day.   Ah ! As predicted. Too good to be true. Despite waking up in the forest with the Inn nowhere to be found I feel rested and so do my companions. Many questions are left unanswered, how infuriating but we must move onward... -Note I don't let the others know but I wanted to leave a message of my personnel appreciation, friend or foe we were saved. Carved on a tree I awoke from the message reads "Thank you Jonas".   Ominous much ! A clearing surrounded by purple, blue and red mushrooms and in the center is a chest. Dolen masterfully throws a stone at the chest and it sparks. Curious. I attempt to lift one of these mushrooms using my psyhonic's but they seem to be too well rooted as we cant determine the type of mushroom they are we don't want to risk getting too close. Another bright idea from Killian, we must be dead. He produces a giant rat from his bag of tricks and sends it forth to investigate, we all follow the route the giant rat took to avoid possible hazards...   ...Ambush ! -Note The creatures seem to be a Fey creature of called a Redcap. Bloodthirsty and just plain evil. The weapons they wield despite crude have a nasty brutality to them. The Iron Boots almost kill all us in one hit ! I will make a note of there construction, material and skill in the future I am going to find a way to incorporate this into my arcane armor as the benefits of bludgeoning a foe with your feet as a secondary attack will keep the enemy off balance.   Contents of the Redcaps; Playing cards Flower, safely tucked away in a pocket Pocket sand A box of candles 11 cp Flower, safely tucked away in a pocket   The contents of this chest appears to be used as a trap for the Redcap's to lure travelers to their death. Contents of the chest; 1000 cp 7000 sp 1700 gp 2 Bronze crowns worth 250 gp each Silver necklace with a gemstone pendant worth 250gp Carved ivory statuette worth 250 gp A dog mask that changes the color of what it touches to a random color once per day-An intriguing magical item. Upon inspection it turned my brown leather belongings bag to a bright yellow-Further study may cause different color changes depending on the material. A pair of arm less hovering spectacles that can make a sound only heard by up to 5 creatures of your choice within 60 feet-Another intriguing magical item. The spectacles themselves offer no benefit in terms of actual sight but this sound that is emitted can be utilized as a warning, alert or code that only the group will know.

[Dolen has become enshrouded in some form of stasis field]   ...The door slams shut. it seems as if the world itself has shifted to an alternate state of itself ? Killian and I attempt to open the door to the guard house to escape the fury of whatever Magical or primeval force is out there, it seems the door has been sealed somehow, there's no budging this thing ! Perhaps overthinking the situation due to our current predicament. I decide to apply a logical solution. Picking the lock, for all we know its just been locked from the outside... Damn it all ! Failure ! Another approach is needed. Deconstruction, I'm not one to simply destroy someone else's hard work unless absolutely necessary... What on earth ! The screws seem to be magically reforming after being removed. Killian seems to have applied the same logic. Lacking any type of finesse after my attempt decides to hack the door down, I am inclined to agree now though. Whatever is out there its getting worse...   ... Wait... The storm has subsided, the door is open and its seems nothing about the day has changed since before we rolled the dice... -Note I have multiple theories about these dice that will need to be explored. One theory about these dice suggest that the number rolled 1 being negative and 8 being positive as we have both ends of the scale to compare will determine the experience witnessed by those who are either in the near vicinity of the one who has rolled or share another connection (we have fought together/bonded by conflict). The experience seems to either magically echo in the mind or magically transport those who are apart of the experience in question. Another addition to the connection of those in the experience is that the guard that we subdued didn't seem to be in the same place we were and afterwards he acted like nothing had happened ? It is imperative that we discover more as they have become more frequent part of this groups current journey and we must determine there purpose !   Blast it ! O'Mara voice booms throughout the village and he actually decides to do something clever for a change and call my companions bluff. Calling out our wannabe hero, holy than thou, nothing but action man to confront the towns guard in the middle of the streets can only end in one outcome. As much as I want to just get away to regather ourselves and recuperate, find out whats happened to Dolen, I cant leave Killian alone. Its time to find out the truth !   Interesting It turns out O'Mara is responsible for turning a blind eye to the strange goings on in this village. A classic case of one in authority, abusing their authority. What I find shocking is his ignorance. Cultists, dark rituals, monstrosities and un-dead plague this small village and its inhabitants and turns a blind eye as long as he's paid his due. I will give him his due now ! -Note Killian's bag of tricks produced a Panther, If we survive this i must ask him to be able to utilize this sometime for future projects. In this moment crowd control will do ! If Dolen was hear he'd provide brilliant cover with his bow upon the rooftops. Again if we survive crafting some sort of climbing device would be beneficial in general and combat... Maybe I could find a way to utilize the grappling hook within a crossbow ?   5 Guards plus the more experienced Sargent against the two of us and a magically conjured panther... I wont lie I'm not hopeful especially we're an elf down and at half strength...   Goodbye O'Mara you rotten headless Bastard ! -Note The Wand of Magic Missiles I've incorporated into my armor hasn't let me down. [Magic Missiles appear as Iridescent crystal darts the size of arrowheads. When the missile is fired it leaves an ethereal blue smoke trail and sounds like a firework and thuds on impact] Despite my hatred towards the now headless O'Mara his death was a tactical choice, the alpha is dead the pack should be put of guard, best case scenario run away, we'll see... This is it we failed... Despite my ignorance and prejudice towards the pointy ears. Dolen is a cunning character not easily fooled, a master of his craft and I trust him to solve this situation as he has good head on his shoulders especially after our hour of rehabilitation. He is the only one who can save us now !   ...Who is That !

[... The party solve the Puzzles and escape]   I cant help but be impressed at the ingenuity of these puzzles the gnomes left in this chamber. Despite the puzzles simplistic nature its deceptive in how it makes one overthink and waste time to find the solution. Lord Robert the other soul left to die down here has given some interesting insight in solving these puzzles, despite his frailness his mind is still sharp. I'm impressed with Killian's problem solving and fortitude, the amount of literal blood he put into solving these mysteries is commendable. -Note possible solutions to put to gnomish puzzles in the future. Statues-if incomplete, requires completion structurally and a gesture to its purpose for example a sacrifice of ones own blood. Writings-read carefully, not to the true nature of whats being said but how it written for example a sequence of colors and the advice of the souls who failed previously. Architectural-there is a reason for everything made and how its made for example the indents in columns for climbing and a stone slab that requires weight to reveal a secondary chamber. Clock-despite its obvious nature counting down to our doom in this scenario additional mechanisms are set into place for example moving the hands in a sequence that matches the solution. Shrine-what looks to be sacred in nature, a final form of repentance before the end may provide alternative solutions for example physically touching what you think in the outside world shouldn't be touched. Abnormalities-underneath what appears to dangerous or damaged in nature may hide solutions for example a small pit of acid once drained and a crack in a tile once opened revel solutions. Death Trap-the very placement of what might kill you may hold another purpose for example the vent expelling the poison gas became the way out after solving the puzzles.   Daylight. We've escaped ! A quick glance at the surrounding area puts us near the Chapel of Rehabilitation, this cant be coincidental as the chamber we just escaped was used for 'rehabilitation'. interesting that we've ended up this far away ? Unarmed, weak and on the run. We all decide to head up to the chapel and get out of the open. Perhaps there is something in the chapel that might shed some light as to what is going on around here ? Note-The distance traveled from the guard house to the exit of the chamber definitely transported us via magical means, maybe not as potent as a teleportation but a certainly a temporal shunt. The utility of temporal shunting is a boon that I need to unlock.   Damn it all ! Killian said we've been spotted. We haven't got long !   The Chapel appears to hold no clues. Simple depictions of healing the sick body and mind. Even after Dolen decided scale the exterior to gauge any abnormalities on the top of the structure, frustrating.   We need our equipment ! Dolen, Killian and I decide to head towards the guard house via the outskirts of the village along the tree line. We have no idea as to how far this corruption runs within the community. I have to give the oaf credit, he managed to diffuse a situation that he created. That's what happens when you decide to try and sneak in heavy armor, you fall over and have to bride a child not to tell anyone. Note-If I am to be travelling with these two for the foreseeable, I'm going to have to craft them some better gear that counter acts there weaknesses. Look into Mithril alloy for Killian as his armor is not very quiet and imbue an item of strength for Dolen as his natural strength is lacking.   The river is more vicious than we initially thought, we're all exhausted and we haven't even made it to the guard house yet. Ugh ! I can tell I'm at the end of my tether with this place. I'm not going to deny that I am inpatient and stubborn to a point but now I'm feeling angry and want retribution. My knowledge should never be used to maliciously harm another but with everything going on, I'm struggling not to give in...   Something within the village seems to have drawn the guards away. Excellent ! I make my way inside alone and find our equipment, everything seems to be there.   Spotted ! A lone guard on his way back to the guard house. Despite my frustrations and wanting to exact some form of retribution we still don't know whats going on around here, this lad could very well be innocent. Note-Spell utility observation. Invisibility is amazing for non-detection when needing to extract something and infiltration when needing to enter a guarded or restricted area undetected. Web can be utilized to restrain someone or something from escaping or even falling also to lock an area down, this can be used as an escape tool too to block the way for those that chase you.   We managed to drag the lone guard out of sight into the guard house. I want to have a look round too, if there is any clues to be uncovered they must be found...   ...Another 8 sided bone dice. That's 3 of them now ?... A 1 is the outcome of this role and suddenly the environment changes, a storm brews in moments, wind, rain and thunder. We maybe out of time !...

After resting in this so called abandoned windmill. We find ourselves in a bit of a crossroads. Despite resting we are all still short on resources. Dolen wants to check out the chapel. I am inclined to agree somewhat as the mystery of the bells that ring at the roll of the dice is a fascinating riddle to uncover ? curiosity however will have to wait. After a discussion on the route back down from the mill the group decided to head back into the village, report our findings and rest. Note-Gnomes seem to have a large part to play in the underlying mysteries of this village. More information and resources are needed to determine their exact influence. There is definitely their signature on the architecture, magical and non-magical.   Despite being gone for only a few hours. It feels like weeks... my colleagues and i have decided to go back to local merchants to stock up on some more items to help us in our en devours. The items that we procured from the wagon at the windmill will require time to identify as to there purpose. That's my evening sorted, interestingly though Killian produces a couple of the items and asks if Wude the owner of 'The Trusty Feather' can identify them. Of course she couldn't, shes just a merchant but its amusing to watch this macho buffoon trying to impress, especially with statue of himself. Its seems that what was once a simple task of discovering the truth behind the letters has lead to us cleaning up this backwater village unraveling dark mysteries, fighting creatures and even more questions. Note-'Clink and Clanks' Battleaxe-I think a greater weapon is required for close quarters combat. 10 feet of metal chain-I have some ideas to make this item more useful than it sounds. Hunting traps-Useful for fortifying a position. after our previous exploits theses will become invaluable. Note-'The Trusty Feather' Alchemists Fire-After the success with catapulting the vial of Acid I am intrigued to see the outcome of this particular compound. Killian brought up an interesting point whilst doing his ridiculous mating dance. Merchants may be able to provide additional services, this may include magical services and possibly special stock. I feel that this will more relevant to the major town merchants but nerveless something to look out for.   The excursion to the windmill definitely needs to be reported. We've found the guard house and there is still no sign of the Guard Captain yet, just some of the farm boys that call themselves guards. This is becoming more frustrating. We don't want to over step the boundaries of the law but we will defend ourselves. The situations that have arisen need to be taken seriously. Leave it to Killian to explain what happened, I cant take much more of this, my frustrations with these incompetent guards has reached its limit.   ...[Krod walks away from the Guards, Killian and Dolen]   Evening time in 'The Windy Goat'. Theli provides us with a well deserved drink and meal. No sign of the healer and it turns out a shipment of food and drink that Theli ordered has gone missing. I have no doubt that the wagon we came across was the missing shipment because of his patronage I give him the shipment he ordered. Afterwards I leave my companions and go up early as I've got a lot of work to do in regards to identifying the rest of the plunder. Between trips up and down the stairs Isee my companions have fell into their usual roles. Killian is showing of to the masses whilst Dolen sits in the shadows and watches. Note-My discoveries in identification of the items we collected. Statue of the Elf jester-This statuette can become a raven for up to 12 hours. Once it has been used, it can't be used again until 2 days have passed. While in raven form, the figurine allows you to cast the animal messenger spell on it at will. Spyglass with Blue lenses-Advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight. In conditions of clear visibility, you can make out details of even extremely distant creatures and objects as small as 2 feet across. -Dolen the hunter will get the most benefit from these items. No more Discoveries made from these other trinkets accept for the statue that looks like Killian. After casting the Arcane ritual of identification the strong smell of death percolates from the statue. As I gave it back to Killian he did not notice the smell. Curious I feel the statue contains more secrets than a simple ritual reveals.   Morning has come and after breakfast we decide to go to the guard house again hopefully to report directly to the guard captain. What we find is the Sargent with the guards we saw yesterday and a prisoner ? What ! An accusation of theft and murder ! That lying troglodyte guard claims that he and his little posse cleared the windmill out of the bloody Goblins and that we came in possibly killed and stole from the dead merchants. Lies ! Despite Killian and Dolen negotiating a Zone of Truth it appears that we are being resisted. I don't like this. The Sargent doesn't want to listen and is denying any attempt to reason and that lying little Shit guard is trying to wiggle out of it. He wont get far ! He will face truth and judgement. The prisoner claims to be a survivor of the incident at the windmill, we must have missed him. Yes we did take the contents of the wagon but theft is a strong word. He seems petrified of something.   We've been double crossed ! We're trapped ! We haven't got long ! We need to find a way out or we will die down here !   Rehabilitation. Things are starting to make sense about the strange goings on around here, however we must first find a way out of this immense chamber. Note-The Gnomes are starting to rear their heads again. It appears from the stonework that they built this chamber. It is unknown as to the chambers true purpose, judging from the skeletons this is what they mean by rehabilitation. Thankfully those resourceful little buggers have left a series of puzzles to be solved to provide a backdoor key to those worthy enough to understand their intuitive minds.

...The Goblins really took it out of us. Whether or not they are related to the strange goings on is another matter to explore later. A fascinating relic of architecture, simple and yet It looks like it doesn't belong ? What looks like a Trade cart appears to have been brought up to the windmill along with 3 Dead bodies are also scattered around it. I see the holy man on his knees in prayer, thankfully he actually did something smart and checked the bodies for any clues. Upon Checking the trade cart and it contents there is clear evidence that a create, box or chest is missing. Drag marks from the cart lead to the windmill. This may suggest that the goblin are in fact using this area as shelter/point of attack. Advantageous from what was told to us about this building. -Note Contents of the cart are as follows... A pewter merchant's weight which is marked in units of slaves-These scales may suggest the occupation of our dead traders ? A rock to wind a piece of string around-A simple implement for winding up rope or in this case string. A small hourglass filled with fine grey ash-An hourglass may have its uses, interesting to see the contents as ash instead of sand ? A pewter merchant's weight which weighs less than it should-Ah ! A crafty tool for some merchants to swindle a bit more out of a deal. This may come in handy when doing some trading of our own. An eight-sided die which rattles when rolled- Another dice ! This is is no coincidence. The mystery surrounding these dice needs to be solved. The Orphanage and now in the Windmill ? I wonder if we'll find these dice in structures that are surrounded in dark mysteries ? A pendant of golden stone engraved with the symbol of a legendary sage-The aspect of this item my have some hidden magical qualities or just be artistic relief of the sage themselves ? 2 barrels of ale-No need to go into the benefits of this particular item 'Hahaha' ! Barrel of salted beef-Excellent when we struggle to find food. 3 iron shackles-Again another suggestion as to the occupation to the dead merchants. I'm loathed to say this but they are well made and will be useful in the foreseeable future.   This place has become eerily quiet. I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks this. Whilst Killian searched the bodies to determine identification and cause of death, Dolen is vigilantly on guard. He doesn't seem overly interested in the finer details. What's his angle here ? According to Killian these merchants aren't what they seem... -Note Contents of the bodies are as follows... Body 1 A dragon's fang inscribed with the word "Undying" A copper coin bearing the visage of a legendary wizard on one side, and the image of a malevolent devil on the other -in regards to the unique items found, they could possess magical qualities to them or could mean membership to an unknown organisation but will need further study. Body 2 A pewter figurine which looks like Killian cloaked in bat-like wings A linen handkerchief printed with a dragon's skull and crossbones -Killian seems to have more notoriety in this world than I thought, I have no words in regards to this figurine... Body 3 A small spyglass with blue-tinted lenses A ring with five keys and an iron tag engraved with an arcane symbol -Dolen appears to have taken a particular interest in the spyglass, I can see the benefit as his occupation as the Hunter - again need to know more as to his intentions. 28gp, 33cp-In total from all 3 bodies however Holy man has denied usage until a donation is made as compensation.   Quietly making our way into the Windmill. It looks like it was used by the Goblins, my theory was correct. Dolen mentioned whispers. I have a feeling that there is some underlying magical influence in play here ?   What in the world is going on ! A sentient statue with glowing eyes attacking us ? We're all so drained from our previous conflict with the Goblins that Killian fell... After the fight I decided to make sure we don't get surprised and clear this forsaken place out by heading up to the further levels. Dolen seems to have the same idea its good to know his instincts are still sharp. I fear we may have bitten off more than we can chew. -Note Upon further investigation to the statue seems to possess a similar likeness to this Baphamet demon found on the walls in the caverns under the Windy Goat. Despite the statue being shattered I've gathered up the pieces and will mend it when alone to discover any secrets and answers this artifact may hold.   ... [Krod no longer under the influence of paranoia]   Ah ! The missing chest, let's have a look. A Dilemma has hit me. I asked Dolen his advice on the statue; a statement I never thought I'd say. I want to learn as many secrets and mysteries as possible but as Dolen said 'at what cost' and despite not knowing them for long, I don't want to betray my companions trust. The Mills mechanism appears to be still functioning. Remarkable considering its been abandoned for decades. Seems the perfect way to dispose of the pieces of the statue. -Note contents of the missing chest... 2500 cp, 1000 sp, 90 gp. A collection of Gemstones-Carnelian, Chrysoprase, Jasper, Moonstone, Onyx, 2 x Sardonyx, 2 x Star rose quartz- All are worth 50gp, any additional currency is welcomed Potion of Greater Healing, 2 x Potion of Healing-A Godsend !   The Millers room appears to be untouched. Strange ? -Note contents of the millers box... A metal cube carved with demonic faces-Fascinating ! I shall start by determining the metal used in case it possesses any particular functionality or focus and then followed determining any magical properties this item has. A tiny figurine of a female elf jester- A Genuine inquiry into a possible origin of this figurine turned into a sarcastic jibe. Dolen should be careful. One day a may hold his life in my hands. A vial of quicksilver-The 2nd vial of quicksilver I've found ? I wonder what benefit this liquid metal can provide. Further study required. 19 cp.   I want to get back to the village as soon as possible but the other two decided we need to rest. Despite my reservations I see the other two needing it. First priority is to secure the windmill... Oh what the hell is this ! It appears we're not alone. I think we should take a page out of the Goblins book and attack from multiple angles so to speak, we have no idea if its friend or foe ? Killian has decided to take whatever this thing is head on. An ingenious plan conjured up by myself and Dolen allows us to strike from above. Of course he'll be the hero while I 'support' him so to speak. A Ghoul ! I really don't understand whats happening here. At a glance it appears to be the Miller but there is no way in the 9 hell's that we'll ever find out now after I melted it. -Note The grappling hook has been an excellent tool, it's provided us with elevation and descent on natural rock faces and structures. I wonder what more utility I can get out of it ? The Catapult spell has also provided with avenue to explore. Concoctions and possibly explosives are given more yield. Impact followed by contents results in one melted Ghoul.

... [Krod still under the influence of paranoia]   Not a good nights rest. Dolen's help with learning alchemical components and compounds was appreciated but I still am far from mastering this craft... -Note It's not good enough ! I need to learn faster ! I must master this craft as quickly as possible !   An Interesting development to distract my mind as there is no sign of the guard captain to report our findings, I do not hold out much hope for this individual to help if what we've seen so far is the caliber of his men's competence... Intolerable ! Still no sign of the Healer too. Frustrating, as I feel time is running out for Jess and any possible discoveries made from his blood... Vyncent a young half-ling lad. Simple from the way he speaks but possesses a brilliant artistic eye. His sketches of the Village offers us an interesting perspective that we are unable to see. We've decided to hire the young lad to give us a tour. Maybe he can help us uncover the secrets of this place and what lies beneath ? Note-Vyncent seems to have a 6th sense about what he actually sees. One of his Sketches depicts Arcane Gnomish symbols floating around the Church ? If only I could see through his eyes. I could probably determine the true nature of these background auras. As much as don't like it I know now that Vyncent has a soft spot for Wude the owner of the Trusty Feather General Store. This information is Useful in case of a possible betrayal.   The Tour of the village proper has not turned up anything of intrigue, Vyncent hasn't seen anything new or different that might be related to current events. This mystery is testing my patience...The outskirts have us interested. Not to mention worried. I only caught a hint but Killian is adamant that when we walked past the mill there was a strong smell of rotting flesh. -Note Vyncent described the mill having a dark aura. Combined with Killians unwavering certainty. The mill warrants an investigation after the tour and any more additional information discovered.   Here we are. The reason why 3 unlikely individuals all ended up together. The Orphanage. Judging by the structure its been weathered and exposed to the elements since the events that took place years ago with the massacre of the children that resided here. The area seems to be absent of life even that of any creatures ? The fountain in the courtyard looks like the scratched design on the mysterious coin sent to all of us. Whilst sketching Vyncent has described this place to be absent with no aura light or dark ? -Note The fountain has intricately carved crystal writings around the basin. They seem to be in no decipherable language ? Another mystery but I will look out for these markings in areas relating to strange phenomenon. Looking upon Vyncent's newest sketch, there appears to be small figures dancing in the drawing. This is maybe an echo of the 33 lost Children interesting as Vyncent told us this place was the void of any auras he can"see". My theory suggests that Vyncent has an ability of possible divine means that cant be Quantified by Magic or science. Either he sees the past, present or future in the aura of a split second. A truly fascinating gift. Its too bad I can't harness it. It would be invaluable to my work !   Splitting up. Killian and I decided to take Vyncent to the Church for a final possible discovery. That oaf Killian actually came up with a clever plan to commission Vyncent to draw him in front of the church. I'm gob smacked. It's good to know he's not a complete "Meat Head"...Nothing new in the sketches accept now the gnomish writing that was surrounding the church is now converging around the entrance where Killian was stood ? Still no closer to unraveling the mystery !   ...That bloody, pointy eared fool ! I thought his kind was all about finesse and grace. Bah ! What codswallop ! I'm surrounded by idiots. That bone dice was our only clue as to who or what was going on around hear ! -Note I've mended the dice, it appears to have been made out of bone however the contents inside are irrecoverably lost... Damn it all ! The coins we all received were definitely cut here. The fine silver shavings prove this but why and to what end? More bloody questions !   The way back to the mill proved interesting at the very least. An Old man told us the story of the mill about the miller. His unusual practices and that there is a curse on the mill itself after the townsfolk drove him away. -Note Investigating the Mill might provide answers as to what the hell is going on around here. I'm almost certain the events that have transpired under the Windy Goat are related to the Mill. We've decided to investigate.   Argh ! This Bloody village we're trapped in a gauntlet. Goblins of all things. Three Clans worth by the looks of it. What have we got ourselves into here !? Why us !?... -Note One of the goblins got away. This may prove problematic in the future...

...now that myself and my new companions have rested, I thought it might've been a good idea to resupply. I asked Theli to introduce me to the local smiths so the first stop is Clink and Clank-Dwarven blacksmiths by the names Fergrim and Dolgan-If my eyes don't deceive me I'd say they're identical. I must say these wears are well crafted. That fool Killian has once again made an embarrassment out of himself and the group. However he commissioned a custom made shield to represent his deity, either he is deeply devoute or trying to show off ? the quiet Dolen purchased himself some studded leather too. Glad to see hes using his brain. He maybe fast and sharp but hes vulnerable. -Note The Twins or Cousins can offer a class in crafting, a clever side business. Unnecessary because crafting is a full time trade but clever all the same. I will attend this class to learn any additional skills to help me on my own path to become a master Artificer. I purchased grappling hook (Good for climbing, improvised weapon and tool), 2 bags of ball bearings (Good for Traps, early warning system and a component in an improved projectile weapon) and Masons tools (Good for determining origins of stone work and finding weaknesses in fortifications).   The General Store known as The Trusty Feather for our next stop. Human Shopkeeper by the name of Wude. A strange women who seems to take more than pride in her wears. Ugh ! and again that fool Killian decides to turn on that so called charm, once again embarrassing me and the elf. -Note purchased Alchemist Supplies (Unlocking more Crafting potential is never a bad thing. If I'm not mistaken once I've mastered this craft i can craft Acid and Alchemists Fire), Leather-workers tools (I can keep on top of Armour maintenance) and a vial of acid (Perfect utility tool for "unlocking" doors and weapon for disposing over enemies).   It was good to see that the local guard kept a watch over the well in the village square. They seemed not to care about the task at hand. I don't think they understand the Gravity of the situation, what we found down there was dangerous ! I don't like folk who aren't serious about their job. Turns out the Sargent thought the same when we went back down to the basement. So I decided to bring him proof or a "gift". -Note my new Psionic abilities allowed me to teach those thick heads by the well a lesson. I made them think a fly kept landing on them and they slapped themselves repeatedly. Fantastic ! I will remember this for others who annoy me.   We're back in this horrid place to finish what we couldn't. The bodies we left seemed to have been gnawed. I suspect rats to be the cause. Dolen thought it would be a good idea to start where we found Jess. After a more thorough investigation a found a Symbol of a small white paw. -Note Myself and my companions have never seen this symbol. i have made a not of this for future reference just in case this is related to the cult itself or to do with the Jess's Were-problem ?   What the hell was that ! The room with the Alter seems to have some residual magical or divine nature. We all Shared a Vision of the room full of corpses, more than we'd left anyway. -Note The masonry and carving of the room suggests the chamber was carved around the alter itself, curious as we are underground however I would estimate the age of this place is about 1000 years old. Still not Picking up any magical source for this phenomenon. Very Frustrating !   Ah ! I'd forgotten about the Grimlocks, it seems there might be more to clear out than first anticipated...   Terrifying and yet fascinating. After dispatching the last Grimlock a pillar made of Skulls and Bone arose from the floor next to where we slayed the rat Queen. I've never seen a configuration of this nature before. I'm almost certain there's Necromancy but from where was it Conjured ! -Note Upon further inspection the pillar turned out to be a trap. There are more Questions being raised than answers at this point. I must find out whats going on and uncover any secrets left behind.   But of course there are more rats...   I must discover the secret to this place ! I must unlock the mysteries of the the Black Spires ! I must extract a sample ! ...[Krod suffers long term madness-up to 30 hours]...   I remember this room. The Other spire. The Glphs. All Mysteries and no answers ! Argh ! I need to Know ! The Black star A Different plane Pure evil ...Oh Gods !...   "Gift" or should I say Head delivered to that useless oaf. He has no idea what horrors are down there. Ill drag him down with us next time. Although I pray to Gods there isn't !   I must become better, more skilled. Yes ! I must work on my Alchemical crafting right away !... A Knock ? Dolen of all the folk ? The Elf wants to help ? For some reason I Take comfort in this... Despite our differences I need all the help I can get !

....moving forward. The next area appears to be a natural spring that connected to the village well. On the walls surrounding the cavern there appears to be some form of Arcane Runes/Symbols....Ah ! It appears that my new Companions have a weakness for shiny objects..... The Elf found an interesting object at the bottom of the well, a silver bell with what can only be described as some form magical spark. I don't think I've ever seen a Knight and a Hunter almost killed by school of Fish before. If that fools are what they say they are ? -Note-Further study is required on the Arcane markings, I've found similarities between the Vampire Skull, the cavern wall and the silver bell. My theory is that is I can understand the markings I might be able to replicate the process of these enchantments. However a lot more study is required.   .....I'm not even going to go into the sense of direction of these so called skilled warriors. Its quite amusing....   Snakes !!! Giant Snakes ! What in the word is this place.... I'm starting to think we'll never find Jess especially how drained and beaten we are..... Oh and just add insult to injury more Fish ! -Note-An Obelisk in the center of the room, in the body of water appears to have more of these strange Arcane Markings. Upon investigation I picked up a Bane, curious as upon further investigation after dispatching the snakes my companions were Blessed. Further study and possible experimentation required.   I don't know whether to be relieved or distraught at what we've discovered. The good news is that we've found Jess but the bad news is the state hes in. A Giant Rat to be exact, possibly some form of Lycanthropy. He is aware of what he is and what hes become which is hopeful considering the common side effects of this particular affliction. The Question is how !?..... I found a curious Artifact among the remains Jess had been hiding. A Ring-Further identification is required, there is no time at the moment. -Note-I'm not familiar with this form of Lycanthropy. My knowledge of the world is inclined towards the Material, that being said i cant help but being curious and possibly studying this further. After all if there is a cure that can be discovered it would be invaluable. I'll star with a blood sample.   As a group we've decided to get Jess back to Theli and alert the town Guard to keep a watch on the Cellar and now the Well. Despite being a complete Narcissist that fool Killian actually managed to convince the town guard to help without question. I suppose having a head full of sawdust but the looks of a well bread noble has its perks. We'll clear the place out once we've rested.... Theli did not believe his eyes of course and majorly Concerning that there isn't a town healer. My concern is Jess's new affliction taking hold. -Note-Theli has refused to let me take a sample of blood. I understand his reservations but its purely academic of course. I must speak with this so called healer when they arrive. I've also discovered the magical qualities of the ring I found. It appears to be a Ring of Protection.   Finally rested and Morning at the Windy Goat turned out to be a lot more interesting than first thought. A drunken oaf of my own Kin letting us all down, so I gave him a taste of the good Stout. Turns out the ring of protection has a echo of is creators conscience. Killian has spoke a bit about himself, turns out his adopted father was a famous knight and adventurer, something tells me he's trying to prove himself ? The Elf Dolen is as forthcoming as any elf, I don't doubt the skill of his craft but I'm going to be keeping a close eye on this secretive hunter. -Note-An unique method of Psyonics that Boris tried to teach me has finally come to fruition. Of course being a Duregar its easy for him and his innate abilities A form of Mage Hand that can't be seen or heard. Invaluable the knowledge of brothers from below. The Rings creator had a workshop in the Infernal Forest, I will have to investigate this wizards workshop to uncover any mysteries that he may have Discovered I can use to advance my own work.

Encountered 3 Skeletons in adjacent room to cultist alter-Discovered a Vampire Skull with Necrotic runes etched into it. -Note-Killian human holy warrior shows keen interest ?.....Will need time to Study later, runes have possible discoveries to unlock ?   Discovered an ancient spire made of black unbreakable metal linked to an ancient evil known as the Grendel Root. found a Group of Grimlocks in a trance huddled round it-upon closer inspection it appears a ritual is being performed or spell fueled. Around the room itself Glyphs of magic have appeared, possibly a byproduct or possibly the cause ? -Note-must try to obtain a piece of this unknown metal to discover its composition, also decided to write in a notebook with depictions of these Glyphs+Disrupt ritual/spell..... outcome possibly.... Bad !   Rats ! Giant Bloody Rats ! we seem to have gone from the scary Cultist lair to the sewers of gods only knows where.... A Horrible discovery.... The Rat Queen but not as she should be. An un-dead monster impaled upon the black metal spike. Surrounded by her horde. Dolen that Hunter fell. Killian overwhelmed...... I finished it. Sad upon reflection but ultimately unavoidable..... -Note-the arcane modifications to my armor have given me the upper hand in combat, great for a non-combatant. Additional-channel secondary runes into lightening launcher to provide extra current.   Interesting new Equipment found as we move on, We have acquired fascinating items. A Wand of Magic Missiles, Bracers of Defense, Bag of Tricks and a Potion of Giant Strength+Multiple pieces of Copper, Silver, Gold and Platinum. -Note-Infused the wand into my Armor-invaluable as the wand fires multiple missiles and my magical potential only allows casting at the base level.   Fool ! Two giant Ogres woken up by that air head Killian and his obvious statement 'there's two of them', really ?! We never would have guessed ! Blundering Buffoons left me behind to seek their glory. I don't know what they were doing in the chamber ahead but I managed to take one of them down single handed. -Note-Ogres have a low intelligence, distractions and taunting may allow attacks from behind to be advantageous+staying at range and out of reach..... Will need to inform the Elvin hunter as Im sure this information will prove useful to his profession.   ...... The dust has cleared. Another possible Dark artifact found. A stone tablet depicting the history and theology of the Prince of Beasts. -Note-As a Mason this Tablet has been kept in excellent condition to the right vendor it could worth a good amount of coin..... However I cant ignore the dark magic unleashed upon our group in this Cultist Lair. We must not let the evil of this place spill out into the world !