Tokiwong's Story Hour... aka Big trouble in little Cormyr

[Aust Meliamne]

To begin at the beginning is a good thing, I think. So this Story Hour shall begin at the beginning of my newfound campaign based in Forgotten Realms. The main setting at the present time is northern Cormyr in the city of Quell just south of the mountains, a backwater city, where a dark tale shall unfold.
Our cast of characters far in order of their appearance are as follows:

Rhea Twiceborn (Fighter/Cleric 1 Drow, Apprentice CG) Rhea is an interesting priestess of Eilistraee, and a drow, though she was not born as a drow. She was born as a half-elf, to a human bard and a wild female elf. Her mother died when she was young, and she was raised by her father, Owen Silverlyre.

At an early age she took to adventure, but like many young heroes up and got herself killed out on the moors after stepping through a portal. She was found by drow priestesses of Eilistraee and reincarnated, she returned as a drow. It was taken as a sign of greatness.

She was trained by the drow as a priestess and a warrior and learned there ways, she arrived in Cormyr to assist a small temple in Franick. The story begins with her assisting Brother Herilos a moon elf and priest of Eilistraee.

She has not see her father in six years, since she died, and he is unaware of her current condition.

Xenon Morieth (Evoker 1 Human LN) Born and raised in the Chessentan city of Luthcheq, Xenon was always
considered an oddity in his family. The Morieth family held a long tradition
of raising sons with practical skills which could easily be put to the
service of both their city and gods. A wealthy mercantile family, Xenon's
father had devoted his youth to martial activities, fighting as an officer
in the wars of his city before settling down into the family business, and,
after inheriting the leadership of the later, investing his time in politics
and community betterment. And it seemed that Xenon's brothers were on
the same track.

But not Xenon. He always had his head is books and maps. Eschewing the
pragmatic knowledge of business and war, he would spend hours on end losing
himself in the geography and history of the large world he hand never seen.
Because of this eccentric behavior, a resentment grew between him and the
rest of his family, and, on Xenon's end, an unhealthy dose of shame. What
caused the greatest heartache for his father though was his interest in
magic. Well aware of the practice of his art despite its prohibition within
Luthcheq, Xenon would vigorously pursue every tale of its use he could get
his hands on, and, with his keen mind, even dabble in its essential
neighbor.

Despite his father's pleas for him to stop, Xenon continued down this
politically troublesome path. To avoid the obvious danger both to himself
and his family, he spirited Xenon away to the city of Cimbar under the
pretense of threat he was sending him off to a music academy. Knowing his
son's stubberness, but still wanting to ensure his welfare, he quietly
enrolled Xenon in Cimbar's renowned college of wizardry, sending secret
tuition payments on the condition that Xenon would reveal his status to no
one from Luthcheq.

Aware of the strains he was putting his father through, and guilty
because of it, Xenon centered all of his actions around his studies. But
instead of the carefree submersion in knowledge which had once been his
passion, he attempted to put his new 'art' to ends his family could be proud
of. Thus, honoring the Morieth penchant for battle, he devoted particular
attention to the magical school of evocation, neglecting in the process both
studies in enchantment and illusions, schools that Xenon considered
dishonorable both to himself and his opponent in battle. He even kept in
good training with his shortbow.

The course of his life would change in good time though. While many of
the facilities of the Cimbar college were being rebuilt following the magical
disaster that had befallen it, Xenon considered and proceeded to take a trip
to visit his family. But upon setting foot on the harbor, a family friend
approached and informed Xenon of the fate of his family. It seems someone
had disclosed Xenon's real business in Cimbar, and, in a usual purge by the
ruling Karanok family, his relatives and associates had all been arrested
and executed, the authorities now awaiting Xenon at the Morieth residence.
Thinking quickly, Xenon turned back to a merchant vessle, and offering his
few valuables, paid for quiet passage out of the city.

Not thinking it safe to hold up in the other Chessentan cities, all of
which might of housed Karanok agents, Xenon made his way to Suzail, the
capital of Cormyr. Having heard rumors of the countries, turmoil, Xenon sees
this as an opportunity to to revel in the Chessentan past time of mercenary
work, while building his power in preparation for his family's revenge. To
this effect, he now devotes daily prayers to Assuran, paying special
attention to the god's portfolios of Travel and Retribution; the former for
pleasure such thoughts brought him in his time of innocence, and the later in
honor of his lost family.

Thev Blackmoon (Paladin 1 Teilfing LG) Thev is an oddity, a teilfing in the service of the Knights of the Blackhorn. He is a native of the Sword Coast, and claims to be from Baldur's Gate proper. Little is known about him, but he does appear to be determined and forthright. He serves no god as of yet, but serves the purpose of good.

His father , only known as the Black Seeker, he never speaks of and his mother raised him as best she could. But even from a young age the boy had an uncanny disposition to good and order. He has dedicated his life to setting right the sins of the father, which is in a word ironic. Outside of this Thev shows little passion, but he seems to empathize with those that have problems fitting in and are discriminated against.

This is the main cast so far though it is sure to grow, and hopefully not shrink... next post we introduce Rhea and Thev, followed by Xenon in the post after.

Tokiwong

*Note: I am porting these stories to the new boards for Tokiwong.*

[Aust Meliamne]

Session #1 Rhea's Prelude
We shall begin with Rhea Twiceborn, the drow priestess of Eilistraee. Rhea had completed her training and was sent to southern Cormyr to assist a priest in the small village of Franick, a moon elf by the name of Herilos.

Herilos is a worrisome individual with little or no ambition to adventure and prefers to stay close to home in Franick, though not a native he is attached to the village and its people. he is a clingy individual who is distressed that Rhea, having fulfilled her debt is ready to move on, possibly to find her father, but also fine her own way.

He attempts to use guilt which has varying success, but is interrupted by a commotion in the main lobby of the temple. Rhea and Herilos rush out to find the frazzled acoloytes struggling with knight who is badly hurt. The servants try their best to keep him concious, the only words coming from his mout being, "Is this Baldur's Gate?"

Herilos is upset but the quick thinking of Rhea most likely saves the young knights life, and they are all able to stabilize him. Rhea is pleased with the results though the rest of the servant are unnerved by the strange appearance of the knight. The knight is drssed in black armor with white trim and has a white shirt over the chainmail. But his skin is jet black and his eyes are red, unnaturally red with hair that tends to writhe in an unseen wind. His skin is also too warm to be normal.

The knight eventually comes to and begins to fgiure out that he is not in Baldur's Gate. His name is Thev a knight of the BlackHorn based out of Bladur's Gate. He was a member of an envoy of knights who were ambushed by goblins and killed, only Thev escaped. Rhea decides to check on the fallen knights and finds the scene of the ambush, the remainging knights are hanging dead and stripped bear.

After seeing the scene Rhea decides to assist Thev and travels with him north to Quell, where the city has been suffering attacks by goblins. The two journey north, and arrive at a small village halfway into their journey. There they have an encounter with a strange martial women named Kae, she seems to be searching for her companion Xenon who was lost to the goblins. The characters inform her that they have not seen him, and they part ways.

After a few more days the duo arrive in Quell, and embark on a new adventure...

The next post will detail Xenon's solo...

[Aust Meliamne]

Suzail, early evening in the Lower ward:
The evening was pleasant in Suzail, although winter was quickly approaching the chill in the air had not quite reached an unbearable amount. The young evoker Xenon was returning home from a long day of fishing and had made just enough to say for a few more days and plot on his next course of action. The small inn was never particularly packed, but it there was always a steady stream of workers drinking their misery away. Though there was a stranger in the midst of the rabble, an elderly man of noble affluence.

The man gave him a smile and seemed to be watching his every movement. Which unnerved the already paranoid Xenon to no end. Xenon carried on his business at the bar as usual and then turned to see just what the man wanted.

“What business do you have with me sir?” Xenon uttered his mind racing.

“Nothing sir, I am just enjoying a drink, would you like to join me?” his voice silky smooth.

Xenon sat and kept a wary eye on the stranger, Owen Silverlyre, a mage who knew Xenon’s family in the past and had heard of the troubles his family was having of late. Xenon was obviously not amused with the revelations and his distrust grew. The two retreated to Xenon’s chambers for a more private conversation, which Owen revealed his reasoning for coming to Suzail.

“I know Xenon you are in danger, but I may be able to help you, Suzail is a big city but your enemies wish you ill and will certainly come here in time, I know of a place that may give you further protection. It is small and out of the way, a city called Quell in northern Cormyr, “ Owen smiled.

“And why would you help me? I have nothing to give in return?”

“You and I are alike Xenon, we have both lost much, and I consider it a debt to your father, do you accept?”

“But what of the troubles in the north?” Xenon seemed wary.

“Tis better to face unknown danger in the North then to certain danger from enemies that wish you dead yes?” Owen retorted.

Xenon relented and agreed to the plan. His reluctance had subsided as Owen instructed him on how he was to go about getting to Quell. Once there he would have to find the service of a Lord Reave, a respected aristocrat in the city.

The next day Xenon set out to Quell via a pottery caravan led by a surly half-orc with a penchant for chess and an unctuous personality. The journey took many months as the caravan snaked its way across Cormyr and finally arrived in Quell nearly a month ahead of schedule. The weather and trade had been especially good this season. Upon arriving in Quell, Xenon said his good-byes and proceeded to locate the home of Lord Reave. With luck and a bit of patience he was guided there by a young farmer named Kilv. Kilv was a simple boy with a very curious nature if slightly blunt and very much colloquial. Kilv led Xenon to the House of the Reave family a stone edifice with a courtyard lined with apple trees, a stately manse. It should be noted that Xenon’s patience was duly tested, Kile often referred to him as a “darkie”. Xenon is a dark complexioned, olive skinned man in pale skinned Cormyr.

Upon his arrival, he was ushered into the parlor room, a large room with plush purple chairs and a marble floor. Tapestries hung on the walls with a painting of the elderly lord hanging over the fireplace. Lord Reave entered moments later, and the to conversed about Xenon’s journey and then the nature of Owen Silverlyre. It seems that Owen had also assisted the Reave residence five years past. And as a favor to the elderly adventurer he promised to take Xenon in and protect him, though in return he hoped Xenon would assist the Reave household as the House Magus, and advisor. Xenon was elated, and settled in to his new life in Quell. The future looking slightly brighter, despite the hardships he had faced in the past.

[Aust Meliamne]

The First Session... Northen Cormyr in early winter in the small city of Quell, just before nightfall.
Thev and Rhea finally arrive in Quell after six days of dull travel. They were eager to make their way to Lord Reave’s manse. The travel had been for the most part uneventful, with the exception of an encounter in a small village along the road to Quell.

Thev and Rhea had stopped to rest under a roof, and not lying out on the hard ground under the cold night. During the night Rhea heard a disturbance in the hall just outside of the room and she went to investigate. To find a thin half-elven woman, a traveler by her garb, being accosted by a large brutish local. Rhea quickly intervened, and then watched as the brutish man was quickly put down with two swift kicks, one to the back of his knee the other to his head. The two women wisely retreated back into the room.

The traveler, who wished to be called Kae, a foreigner by her accent and appearance, her skin was much darker in appearance. Rhea and Kae conversed for a moment until Thev, who had gone out to check the horse returned. Kae showed disdain to the large teifling's presence and Thev likewise was not pleased to meet her. As the night passed Kae revealed that she had been searching for her lost companion Xenon, a mage who had been captured by goblins. She was hoping the mage had escaped and they might have met the young mage along the road. Both Rhea and Thev shook their heads no and the conversation ended. The night passed and the Kae took to the East, while Thev and Rhea continued north.

Three days later the two adventurers arrived in Quell, and were at last ending their journey. Quell is a small city of about 13,000 inhabitants, mostly humans with a sizeable population of halflings. Quell is surrounded by hilly farmland and acres of apple orchards. Quell is a backwater city in ways and is relatively behind the times somewhat. It has a much slower pace then Suzail and the people are not as cosmopolitan. But it is a pleasant city with paved roads and beautiful stone buildings. The duo made their way through the city and arrived at the manse of Lord Reave. The structure was stone and fine wood with apple trees lining the walkway through the courtyard to the house proper. Thev dismounted and knocked on the door, just as the House mage Xenon was about to open it.

Xenon looked inquisitively at the two travelers; Rhea kept herself covered as to not reveal her true nature. Thev spoke up and asked for the master of the house. Xenon respectfully replied that the lord had stepped out earlier in the day and had not yet returned, he invited them in though to await the master’s return. Thev and Rhea waited in the parlor and spoke with Xenon on various topics most relating to the circumstances that brought them. Xenon listened intently, a plan growing in the back of his fevered mind.

The recounted his ambush by the goblins and the fact that they had come north to aid House Reave with their troubles with the goblins. Both Thev and Rhea shared the sentiment that the goblins well though out ambush was possibly the work of a rival house, and Xenon instantly suspected House Dorbal. House Dorbal along with houses Reave and Beltaine formed the center of Quell politics. Both House Beltaine and House Reave had become powerful in their mining and trade of turquoise with Baldur’s Gate and Suzail, and many other large cities. House Dorbal was allied with House Beltaine and had a hand in the farming in the city and were also feared as enforcers and assassins. Merely rumors stemming from the fact that the founder of House Dorbal was rumored to be an assassin from Suzail.

Xenon took it upon himself to act on his master’s behalf and led the two strangers to the compound of House Dorbal; a large building that loomed in the chilling darkness. There was only a single guard at the door, and his manner was more foul then a thousand orcs. The guard insulted Xenon, calling him a “darkie mage” and then insulted Rhea considering her a women only fit to go to bed with him. The group obviously became frustrated and Xenon erupted and casted a Magic Missile at the hapless guard. The guard went down without another word. Rhea and Thev were both shocked by this action and were doubly upset, at the guard and now at their callous reckless companion. Xenon uttered a few words deriding House Dorbal and after rhea tended to the guard’s wounds, the trio returned to the Reave Manse.
Both and Rhea and Thev were upset with the events and began to doubt if they would assist Lord Reave, Xenon stomped to his room and prepared to sleep. In the meanwhile Thev and Rhea took refuge in the parlor once more and went over the happenings of the night and decided that they would need to act soon and possibly find their own residence to avenge his fallen companions.

Xenon prepared for bed and sat down to take his boots off when he noticed a letter left for him by Hadrian, also known as Lord Reave. The letter said that Hadrian had gone to a dinner at the manor of House Beltaine and that he was invited and should make an appearance. Xenon once again left his room and went to find the two travelers who were sitting irate in the parlor. Before they had a chance to tear into him verbally, he told them about the dinner at House Beltaine, they all agreed it was high time they spoke with Lord Reave before they did anything else.

The trio arrived at House Beltaine amidst beautiful music and pleasant smells of food and wine. The trio strolled down the long corridor to the main receiving room lined with portraits of members of House Beltaine. Rhea stopped at a large portrait of a young man, Owen Vanten Beltaine; it seemed familiar to her in a way. Thev noticed but kept his eyes on the guests at the dinner. Eventually they found Hadrian speaking with two merchants from the guild.

Hadrian was pleased to see that Xenon had arrived and then seemed intrigued at the guests he had brought with him. Pleasantries were exchanged and Thev once again retold his story about the ambush, and the subsequent journey to Quell from Franick. Hadrian was not pleased and invited them to a more private room and heard the rest of the story in full. He was also not pleased with the actions Xenon had taken and reminded him that he should be more careful before placing the honor of House Reave at stake. The conversation escalated as Hadrian tried to have Rhea remove her cloak and reveal herself; she refused and countered with cryptic religious wordings. Rhea is a priestess of Eilistraee, and refers to her as simply the dancer. Before the situation escalated out of control Hadrian wisely dropped the subject and dismissed the trio. He placed Xenon accountable for any repercussions of his endeavors but would support him for now, it was clear though he was expecting results and soon.

The trio left the house quickly, not before Rhea marking, mentally, a nobleman watching her intently and taking another glance at the portrait, that had a striking resemblance to her father. The trio decided to return to the manse and plan their actions. About two miles from the manse they were ambushed by goblins dressed in robes and sarongs wielding daggers and arrows. In the first round of combat, Rhea was surprised and lightly grazed by an arrow, while Thev avoided a shot and charged his horse onward. The goblin was too quick though and avoided his attack but not quick enough for Xenon’s amazing shot from his crossbow. The critical strike went right through the first of the two goblins and into a hidden third one readying a bow, killing both instantly. The third goblin groveled as Rhea charged her hood down revealing her “drow birthright”. She used her race's reputation to brow beat the hapless goblin and Thev took it forcefully in his arms and carried back to the manse.

The next session shall detail what comes next…

[Aust Meliamne]

Well been a long time coming but here is the update from the second session going to be playing catch up for awhile as we have gathered about three new players and a few solos. And two more sessions to update... sigh, no rest for the wicked.
The trio returned to the manse of Lord Reave and began to interrogate the goblin as best they could. The goblin, named Yik, did not know too much but had a great fear of the drow and was surprised to see Rhea working the humans. The goblin simply wanted to stay alive and pleaded for his life, after a few more rounds of browbeating the group locked the goblin in the cellar. The group had much to think about from what the goblin revealed.

Yik recounted that he had been in the employ of the drow but was working for a noble house, Dorbool, which Xenon realized, meant house Dorbal. The group decided that somehow they needed to get more information on House Dorbal but was at a loss of how to do so. During the ensuing conversation, Lord Reave returned home with the young Beltaine heir, Agis Vanten Beltaine. The characters briefed them on what happened upon their return and both men were very much interested and also worried. Xenon decided to seek rest and study, since it was late and Rhea decided to excuse herself and allow Thev to brief the two young lords on the situation. Rhea wandered down a hall and found a sword hanging on the wall with an inscription from her father to House Reave. She was intrigued and observed it carefully, her revelry was interrupted by Agis after he spotted her looking over the sword. The two spoke on the subject of Owen Silverlyre, Rhea’s father, and then about the drow. Rhea was surprised to note how cosmopolitan and tolerant Agis was.

During this conversation Xenon was sleeping soundly, when his dream turned to his homeland and his family. It was a pleasant dream, till he heard a voice a familiar voice and the scene changed to a small cabin amidst the summer daylight. The voice called to him and he entered the cabin to find Owen Silverlyre sitting at a table, the curious man smiled as he entered. Xenon was surprised and wondered just where he was; Owen tried to put his fears to rest by saying that Xenon and him both were in a dream. This did not ease his suspicions but he let it go. The two conversed on the current situation and then towards the end of the conversation Owen revealed that Xenon’s youngest brother, Teras was alive and well but was not in Chessenta. Xenon was shocked and wanted to know where his brother was, but Owen did not know and handed Xenon a ring, telling him if he found out anymore he would contact him as soon as possible. Xenon smiled and then asked if Owen was a member of the Harpers, he only smiled enigmatically and said, “what do you think…?”

At this point Xenon woke up and heard the talking outside his door, and he went to see what was going on. In the hallway he spotted Rhea speaking with Agis and Hadrian, Lord Reave. He approached the conversation and listened as they were talking about the goblins and the happenings in the city. Thev too soon arrived and the group once more began to plan how to find the source of the goblins and possibly a way to prove that House Dorbal was involved. The word of a goblin was damning but would not be totally sufficient since few trusted goblins anyway. Agis finally after some moments struck upon a plan, he knew that his house and Dorbal had been involved in some dark deeds and wanted to clear his house name before Dorbal damned them. He related to the characters that he knew a way to get into House Dorbal, via the sewers and would send a messenger on the morrow to guide them to the entrance, and hopefully find what they needed.

The next day passed slowly for the heroes but when evening came the guide came, a 12-year-old urchin named Kilv. Kilv is a bit touched in the head and is not the brightest child, and he also has a strange predilection with sticks and his friend “Badger Tom.” No one is quite sure what Badger Tom is since no one can even see him, except Kilv. Xenon slapped his forehead; he had a run-in with the youth before and was not looking forward to an evening with the strange youth. Kilv guided the heroes through the streets towards an old bridge over looking a canal, which further upstream had a connection with the sewers. Kilv told the heroes that the sewers are “hairy scary” and he once killed a rat as big as a dog in there with his stick. Rhea sighs and follows Thev down as Xenon prepares a Mage Armor spell and the group presses on into the sewers with Kilv in tow. Kilv has one other problem he does not shut up and is curious about everything. The group presses on into the sewer, both Rhea and Xenon spot movement up ahead, and Rhea can make out two goblins running up into the sewers. She turns to the rest to stay silent and she prepares an arrow, as does Xenon. Thev grunts and starts to move forward, with his companions covering him.

Rhea decides to first use her drow talents before firing and engulfs the two goblins in faerie fire. One falls into the water to try and put the fire out in the water the other prepares to fire. A third larger figure starts to charge down the sewer path, a goblin riding a giant frog. Rhea fires a shot at the standing goblin but the shot goes wide and Xenon follows up with his shot but his shot too misses the mark. The goblin fires an arrow at Xenon and the arrow hits on target but his mage armor protects him and the arrow passes through him magically, leaving him unharmed. Thev charges forward and then dodges a wild swing by the goblin rider and he takes an action of opportunity to cleave the goblin in half. The frog charges unabated at Rhea, while she fires an arrow at the frog, the critical blow rips through the beast and slides to a halt within kicking distance of Rhea. Xenon takes another shot at the other goblin and drops the poor thug. Thev moves to check on the third goblin that is dead from drowning himself after trying to put out the faerie fire still active.

The group presses onward and reaches a makeshift room lit by a torch inside are three crates and a dead body. The dead body was once the elder Lord Beltaine, but now just a corpse lying in a pool of his own blood. Two of the crates have turquoise while the third is filled with an assortment of bones. The heroes are not quite sure what to make of this. Rhea checks the body and finds that Lord Beltaine was poisoned before his throat was slashed. Kilv scared enough as it is runs to get the constable per Xenon’s wishes. Just a quick note during the jaunt through the sewers Kilv annoyed Rhea and she revealed her drow nature to him, scaring the poor lad, sadly this will come back to haunt her momentarily.

The group discusses the implications of this and Rhea wants to move on, Thev declines saying that they must return the body so it can be properly buried and such. Kilv returns with the constable and guards in tow. The constable is upset at the whole situation, but Kilv makes things worse by saying, “why you be hiding your face darkie elf.. yous not ugly…” The constable raises a brow and interrogates Rhea, her drow nature is revealed and the group s all brought in for questioning, soon after Rhea is imprisoned for being a Drow spy. The group ends the night in the Quell jailhouse, though Rhea is placed in solitary confinement.

The session ends…

[Aust Meliamne]

Updated Cast
We picked up three new players, two before the third session and one after the third session. New characters in order of appearance:

Kyoko Monroe (Level 1 Tiefling Bard): Kyoko was born in Sembia, to a wealthy mercahnt family specializing in spell components and rare magic oddities. She was brought up in the lap of luxury and is abit flighty. She is lusty to put it bluntly and prefers both sexes, her affairs are numerous and seem to be without end.

She does not know which parent or bloodline has the darker blood, but because of it she has a tail and some subtle demonic intonations. She ran away from home though because her family was going to cut off her tail, and she was having none of that. They tried to bind her but she escaped and traveled with an entertainers troupe.

Aust Meliamne (Level 1 Wood-Elf Fighter): Aust was born in the woodlands and lived a simple life with his people and hunted and frolicked doing elfy things all day long till while away on the hunt a band of goblins thrashed through the village and burned it asunder, for whatever reason unknown to him. He cravs vengeance though, and trailed after the goblin warband of frogriders to the quaint city of Quell, wher his true story shall begin.

Talindra Braegen (Level 1 Half-Elf Ranger)Raised in the court of SilveryMoon by a human mother after elven father was killed by a Goblin raid. Became a ranger out of admiration of Dove Falconhand. Constantly seeking adventure, and hunting goblins. Journeying to Quell because of rumors of a goblin raid nearby.

[Aust Meliamne]

Kyoko's Solo...
A wintery eve in the quaint and happy city of Quell. The only noteworthy news is that goblins have been sighted in the sewers and a drow was captured by the local constable. But for the most part the patrons of the Screaming Weasel inn are drinking there sorrows away after a livley performance by a troupe of somewhat talented dancers and musicians.

One of the performers, the ever so lovely Kyoko Monroe, is having a quaint little chat with her boss, Turlus. Turlus is ina word a thug, but he is a smart thug and has kept the troupe together and made them profitable. Despite the idiocy of his brother, Wilbur who is even now out with a lady of the night. With all of the troupe's money no less. Kyoko decides to go searching for the lad and finds him passed out in the stables... the money gone. She wakes the lad up who is obviously bewildered and is able to discern the name of the female and prospective thief, Melinda.

She sends the youth inside, who is terrified now realizing how much trouble he is in with his brother, Kyoko sighs and searches about before hearing the rogues voice. The comely short haired thief smiles and propositions Kyoko to a great deal, and a some quick gold. The two exchange witty banter and decide to meet on the next eve, Kyoko returns inside, not sure what to make of this Melinda, or Mel as she calls herself.

Kyoko walks in to see a familiar sight, Turlus beating the snot out of Wilbur for his continuing blunderings. Kyoko decides to bail the youth out, and tells Turlus of the plan to get the money back with interest, on the morrow. Turlus listens and decides that with the possibility of more money he is appeased but still not happy. Kyoko makes her peace and hits the hay, alone for the first time in a long time.

In the morning Kyoko decides to see what Quell has to offer, since Turlus has allowed them a day off to relax, and to most likely cool off from the events of the night before. As Kyoko leaves to hea to town she spots Turlus in a stern conversation with two noblemen she does not recognize, she thinks nothing of it and heads out. The city of Quell is quaint, and slow compared to her native Sembia and to the other cities she has passed through. Being a tiefling she faces some prejudices and colloquial views, but perserveres. As she wanders the streets she passes the courthouse wher a large assembly has formed, the people are listening to an oratory by a fiery elderly woman. The Royal Cormyrian Inquisitor, Lady Falhan delivers a powerful speech about the corruption in the city and the drow spy that has been captured. Kyoko feels that the Inquisitor is slamming the drow even if he or she is innocent or not, not so much out of sympathy as in empathizing with the feeling of alienation.

She leaves the assembly disgusted and heads into the merchants quarter to browse, when she feels someone grab her tail. She turns to find a young street urchin, no more then age 13 or so looking at her quizzically. The boy is Kilv a strange somewhat touched child, with a very loose tongue. The two converse, well as best as one can converse with someone who has some mental issues. Kilv seems earnest but has strange mannerisms and an imaginary friend, Badger Tom. he lets it slip that he knows the drow and even talks about what happened and how he knows that Rhea, the drow prisoner, is innocent. Kyoko is intrigued and walks with the lad and tells him a story then listens to the lad ramble about shadow men and killing things with sticks. Overall she is impressed and promises him to return the next day to tell him another story.

Kyoko returns to the Screaming Weasel converses with one of her companions from the troupe, shares some choice words with Wilbur then leaves to meet with Melinda.

She arrives at the appointed location and melinda makes her presence known with a pigeon call. Melinda explains to kyoko the plan, which is fleece noblemen of their money using their feminine wiles. The two scamper across town to the residence of the Dorbal family, a wealthy family in Quell specializing in farming. The two "persuade" the guards to allow them entry and Melinda immediately makes a beeline for a mark and leaves Kyoko to her own devices. Kyoko approaches Lord Beltaine who had just lost his father the night before. Lord Beltaine at first does not recognize her presence, but instead looks over a statue of a woman on her knees in pain. He finally starts speaking directly to Kyoko, though it is obvious the loss of his father still haunts him. He went on to mention his feelings about the drow, and he felt responisble for her predicament, and what he was doing to do to get her free. Lord Beltaine, his first name being Agis, then went on to talk about various subjects related to the events of recent note as the two wandered a hedge maze.

Kyoko froze though when she heard the voice of her employer Turlus speaking with men she did not know. And the conversation was not good, not good at all.

"Hmmm... things are not going well,"

Turlus interrupts, "It was done clean, just as you asked."

"yes but things are becoming more complicated... we do not wish to tip our hand so soon..."

Kyoko decides it would be best to take her leave at that point, kisses Agis on the cheek and then leaves. Melinda watches her leave and follows confused at the abrupt departure and follows questioning Kyoko. She is also counting the goodies she has found so far. Kyoko is steamed and upset and hurt, not quite sure what to think as she returns to the Screaming Weasel. She tells her friend in the troupe to pack up and get out of town, not really explaining why, nor giving reason. She is about to leave herself when Turlus enters the Screaming Weasel. She bitterly announces that she is leaving the troupe, Turlus takes the news with a shrug and some well, not so nice words.

Kyoko returns to the party with melinda in tow who is still abit confused and what is going on, but decides to let it go. She actually gets distracted by a nice ruby. Kyoko returns to the Dorbal manse and proceeds to talk with a confused Agis, she confesses that earlier she had lied to him. When they first met earilier she fed him a story about her being a foreign noble not too far off the mark, but not correct either.

Agis is surprised at the outpouring of honesty and smiles at her, the two speak abit more about what is going on in Quell, and then Agis offers Kyoko a place to stay, since she is now homeless. She accepts and begins a new life in Quell, with a nice place to live to boot.

And that is Kyoko's solo in a nutshell.

[Aust Meliamne]

Information about Quell, the city in Cormyr the game is currently based in. in the middle of the Month of The Rotting, in 1372, yes it is winter time...

Information about Quell
Population: 12,143 (80% Human, 17% Lightfoot Halfling, 3% Other)

Location: Northern Cormyr, just south of the mountains in hilly farmland and
apple orchards. Further up the mountains are mines, of precious metals and
turquoise.

Trade: Most of the trade outside of farming is dominated by the brisk
turquoise jewelry trade that is prized as far off as Baldur's Gate. Two
families dominate the trade, House Beltaine and House Reave, the two most
powerful houses in Quell.

Magic: The Magister's of Quell are the main magic organization of Quell and
have a hand in the politics. They are led by the Grand Magus Yeldana Morgi,
a competent Evoker in her own right.

Government: The city is controlled by an aristocratic Oligarchy, dominated
by House Reave and House Beltaine, and their supporting families.

Quell for the most part supports itself with trade in farming goods and the
turquoise jewelry, which makes the two major Houses major players in Quell's
livelihood. In recent months Goblins in the hills have been suspected in
attacking various shipments of jewelry and goods, which has alarmed the more
simple folk. This along with the current troubles wracking Cormyr at large
have created a sense of foreboding in many citizens.

For the most part people in Quell are a good spirited folk and they have
much of pride in their city, and in Cormyr. They tend to think of
themselves as a tough people and are not afraid to mix it up if people get
rude. They tend to view strangers with some suspicion, and tend to give
Half-Orcs, and other similar races the cold shoulder. From what they know
of the Drow, they don't like them much either. Th people can be bigoted but
they like to think of it as being pragmatic so far away from the strength of
Cormyr.

Many citizens identify themselves by what house they support, since each
House employs many individuals in their ancestral mines and farming fields,
this is a minor thing but comes up. especially in the taverns and pubs
where drunken men gather after a long days work.

House Beltaine is known as a stern house with a penchant for pragmatism.
The patriarch of the family is a recluse, Basil Vanten Beltaine. He has
suffered much though in his lifetime, the loss of his first son to the
plague and then the death of his wife in the more recent years. His second
son Agis is said to be an accomplished Mage and a member of the Magisters in
good standing.

House Reave is the equal of House Beltaine and is under the leadership of a
young lord, Hadrian Reave, no more then 20 or so years, and unwed. House
Reave is the sole rival to House Beltaine though publicly they are allies.
Rumors of course fly, of just how friendly they are. In recent weeks the
House has taken on a young mage, named Xenon to be the House Mage.

House Dorbal is smaller in stature and influence but they support House
Beltaine completely. The House has its hands in the farming trade though
there are rumors among the rabble that the house is rife with dark magic and
shadows. Most scoff but at times when someone becomes too critical of House
Beltaine, they disappear, permanently. It does not help that, the House
founder was suspected to be an assassin from Suzail.

Though most of the major Houses are human, House Oakfoot, is mainly into the
trade of apples and its potent Oakfoot cider. The best liquor money can buy
in Quell, powerful and tasty. The Oakfoot arrived about ten years back and
have made a name for themselves at being industrious and determined. Plus
they know how to throw one hell of a party which they do once a year to
celebrate the end of the picking season for their apples.

The final major House, is House Mouzin, they are traders by nature and tend
to be neutral in the affairs of the city. They assist both families about
equally and focus on the bottom line.

[Aust Meliamne]

Aust's Solo
Aust begins his tale amidst sorrow. He is the only survivor of a goblin attack on his elven village. The village was burned to the ground while he was away hunting, his only clue were the dead goblins left. Dressed in red robes, and some dead giant frogs with saddles. Aust trailed after the goblins trhough the woods for many nights and evntually arrived at the small city of Quell, puzzled he approaches the city in the early morning.

He enters the city through the south gate and decides to seek some rest, the Screaming Weasel Inn seems as good a place as any. Aust enters the inn and gets a room for the night, he places his things down and rests for a moment. He decides to see what the city has to offer, plus he is hungry and warm food would do him some good. He orders some warm gruel and sits down to eat, when he is approached by young male human, Wilbur, the brother of Turlus, first introduced in Kyoko's solo. The two chat about frivolous matters before Wilbur mentions that he is in a slight bind. He is a member of a troupe, and they were planning on leaving soon but there goods had been stolen by a former member, a certain Kyoko Monroe. Aust's interest is peaked and he decides to assist the young man.

The two leave the inn and start walking towards the upper side, where all the noble houses and wealthy merchants reside. Aust questions the frivolous displays of wealth bt takes it all in stride. Wilbur talks about various things, but none really seem to concern Aust.

They arrive at the Beltaine household after some looking and approach the door, Wilbur knocks and speaks with the sevrant who nearly slams the door in their face before he mentions Kyoko's name. The servant sighs and allows them entry cursing the day his master allowed a tiefling to stay in the household. Aust and Wilbur sit in the parlor room, and wait for Kyoko. Wilbur makes himself at home and comments that maybe he should just shack up with Kyoko, admiring the new surroundings.

Kyoko is awakened by the servant and gets dressed and goes down stairs to meet with her guests. She is surprised to see Wilbur and the two converse about the last nights events. Kyoko smirks and reveals a few snippets Wilbur had not told Aust. Basically that it was Wilbur's fault that the money was lost and the fact that if he didn't get it back Turlus would tear his hide. Kyoko also makes it pretty clear she does not like Turlus at all, and severely distrusts him. Wilbur begs for some money at that point knowing his ill-prepared plan is falling apart, so that at least he has something to show to Turlus.

Kyoko shakes her head and tells Wilbur what she knows about Turlus and suspects he could be up to, Wilbur can't beleive it, as a matter of fact he won't believe it. Aust listens intently confused but not as angry as he was a moment before. Eventually Wilbur leaves confused and not sure what to do, torn between family and the revelations that his brother may not be the person he thought he was.

Aust and Kyoko decide to check up on Turlus and make him answer some questions, forcefully if need be. It seems like a good plan at the time. They arrive at the Screaming Weasel Inn and before entering Kyoko notices Turlus speaking with the same men from the night before, Kyoko and Aust both hide and listen to the conversation.

"Hmmm the others are not pleased, you pulled the act off clean but lost the eye."

Turlus snorts, "the eye was extra, what matters is that it is done, and you did not complain when you need extra soldiers."

"that is besides the point, the situation has become more complicated, we need the eye or you recieve nothing."

Turlus scowls, "fine but I am not pleased with these change of events."

Kyoko and Aust wisely decide to back off for now and find Wilbur in case he returns to Turlus and reveals anything noteworthy. They find him easily enough after a run-in with Kilv. The conversation bewteen Kyoko and Wilbur is heated and ends up with him disgusted with both Kyoko and Turlus, he decides to just leave the city on his own. Kyoko is pleased even though Wilbur is upset with her. She feels it is a lesser of two evils.

Kyoko and Aust return back to the Beltaine manse to mull over the events of the day and to also catch Agis before he heads out to see Rhea's trial, taking place today.

To be continued in the third session.

[Aust Meliamne]

Oh before I get ahead of my self, this session takes place after the third session, I am sorry for the mix-up but writing this is simpler then writing the third session, for which I am going to try a different approach with. So there are some spoilers on what happened in the third session. Do not fret the third session will be up soon.
Talindra's Solo

The early morning in Silverymoon, just before dawn, Talindra is preparing her possessions for the long journey ahead to the city of Quell and to assisst in rooting out the goblin threat there. A long journey to be sure, but one she is looking forward to, if only to see more of the world. The dawn approaches slowly as she awaits her two companions, a renowned wizard, Lucas Skywing and the famous Harper, Owen Silverlyre.

Owen and Lucas arrive just before the sun rises and the trio share greetings. Lucas is a slight man swathed in a dark robe his face hidden in the shadows of his hood, he is quiet and almost aloof. Owen is all smiles, older yes but still impressive his curly hair and gregarious manner making anyone feeling at home with him. He was at one time a well traveled bard but now has seemed to retire since he lost his daughter Rhea, nearly six years back. Owen is Rhea Twiceborn's birth father, but he has no idea that his daughter has been reincarnated as a drow. It should also be noted that Owen was injured a few years back by a drow assassin the injury has crippled his leg and he walks with a cane.

Owen takes a seat wincing and smiles at Talindra, she is worried if he should travel but he assures he has no choice. The situation is Quell has become very dangerous and he must go to attend to the matter of a villain, a past foe that has been sighted in and around the city. Owen has an information racket that rivals small nations, it seems. Lucas simply nods but refrains from speaking. Owen tells Talindra that she should focus on the goblins while there and not concern herself with his worries, he is confident he can handle the task at hand. With that he turns to Lucas and announces that they are ready to leave.

Lucas nods and stands and extends a hand holding an orb, the orb pulsates with power then energy streams out from it forming a portal, Talindra is awed and surprised at these turn of events. Talindra steps through with comforting words from Owen he follows, then Lucas. Once the trio is through they are on a hill overlooking the city of Quell, and the surrounding countryside littered with farmland and orchards of apple trees.

Talindra sighs and follows Owen down towards the city proper, the city is small very small compared to Silverymoon. Owen has a nostalgic smile on his face and leads the trio to the Screaming Weasel Inn, he seems to know the bartender and the serving wench well, and the inn is closed to provide the trio with privacy. Talindra is slightly overwhelmed but seems to be enjoying herself immensely.

Owen speaks with the serving wench and inquires to what has been going on recently in the city. The woman smiles and gladly recounts a few points to the trio.

* The recent trial of the drow spy was a farce and the drow and that the spy was placed under the auspice of the Royal Cormyran Inquisitor. But the people still beleive she is guilty of killing Lord Beltaine.

* The sewers are rumored to harbor goblins and worse. This has the populace up in arms, it isn't bad enough that there are goblins in the hills now in the city. What is the world coming to.

* She also mentions that a wealthy nobleman was found dead in the sewers, Lord Beltaine. The body was found by the drow and her companions a few nights back.

Talindra takes in all the information especially the bits about the goblins in the city. Owen then sighs and then lowers his tone and speaks directly to Talindra:

"Hmm this bodes ill for our mission, but I fear that Talindra you must not reveal that I am here in they city. I do not wish to tip the hands of my enemies and I am not yet ready to tip my own hand. You must not betray my presence."

Talindra nods confused but understanding the trust he is placing in her. She assures him she will comply the best he can. Owen concentrates for a moment, while Talindra speaks with Lucas. The trio continue thier pleasent conversation when Xenon rushes into the inn.

Xenon had received a mental summons via a ring Owen had given to him in a dream he had a few nights before. Xenon rushed to the Screaming Weasel to meet his enigmatic patron face to face once more. owen is pleased to see Xenon doing well and introduces him to Talindra. he also bades Xenon to assist Talindra while she is in the city and to also keep his presence a secret at all costs. Xenon complies and decides to show Talindra around. Before she leaves the inn Owen hands her a ring, just like the one he gave to Xenon.

Xenon and Talindra march across the city and are accosted by the lovable little urchin, Kilv. Kilv is pleased to mee the pointy eared woman but says he likes Rhea much better. he also calls Xenon, Xero, but that is besides the point and once again refers to him as a "darkie mage". He also relates some interesting information about seeing shadowy men about the town, including in and around the Beltaine household. Xenon is intrigued leads Talindra to the Beltaine manse. They arrive to find Thev and Agis, the current Lord Beltaine speaking in the courtyard. Introductions are made and Xenon inquires about the individuals Kilv mentioned. Agis seems abit upset and tells Xenon that he will speak to him after his father's funeral, but that he needs to go and prepare a few things.

Aust enters the courtyard to train on his sword and sees the group and introduces himself to Talindra. Thev turns to the gathered heroes and asks if they will assist him in the evening to investigate the sewers once more. The concensus seems to be a resounding yes, and they plan to reconvene later in the evening.

The end... to be continued in the fourth session... and yes I am aware that the third session has not even surfaced yet.

[Aust Meliamne]

Finnally Session THREE!!!!!
Quell in the early afternoon, in the midst of winter:

Not more then a month ago, Thev was just a squire on a mission of peace to end a simple trade dispute and resume the flow of turquoise. Simple and without too much peril, beyond the lengthy journey involved. Of course Tymora has smiled on the young paladin, he lost his comrades in a bloody ambush by goblins. He alone survived by wit and strength alone, his stubbornness carrying him when he felt all life nearly leaving him. It seems so long ago, and yet as he looked around at the quaint cell he was currently in, he could recall the moments vividly. The blood and the chaos, the screams as his comrades fell one by one, their desperate commands for him to take flight and get word to the chapter. Did he make the right decision to avenge them on his own, what could he do alone? Thev brooded as he awaited his eventual release. He glanced at his partner in crime, Xenon, a wild card to be sure but his talents in magic could not be denied. Despite his abilities, Thev didn't like the mage; his manner was too unctuous and too politically minded. Thev sighed and let his mind wander to the treatment Rhea was most likely enduring at the moment.


Rhea was roughly tossed into the small dank cell, stripped of her weapons and possessions. Despite her claims of innocence, his birthright spoke louder then her words. Rhea paced slowly in the cell; there was little else to do. The nights work was barely underway before the situation exploded out of control. Hours passed it seemed and the door suddenly flew open, three large guards sneered at her.
The eldest spoke, "This way drow..."

Rhea nodded and followed her demeanor dignified and noble despite her situation. She was brought to a small circular room, the guards shoved her in roughly and she looked about the room dimly lit by torches on the wall. A table dominated the center of the room with four seats, three already filled. The first had the head constable, to his left sat a young woman of noble affluence, and to his right Agis Beltaine. Agis gave her a curt smile and Rhea took a seat, silently.

"Tell me witch, what is your name?" the constable scowls.

"Rhea Twiceborn," Rhea replied evenly, "why am I here, have I been charged with a crime?"

"Espionage, murder," the constable scowls rattling off claims.

Rhea interrupts him, "Or am I being punished for birthright and not my actions."

"There is still the matter of a dead body, Miss Twiceborn."

Rhea eyes the constable, "We found the body dead, and you may want to know he was poisoned before his throat was slashed. But I have already explained this, why do we keep going over facts you already know."

"Calm yourself constable she is at least speaking truth, at least as far as I have surmised," the woman speaks quieting the constable.

"Truth is all I speak, I have yet to lie, and I have not broken any law in this city," Rhea responds calmly.

"Silence spy, I don't care frankly," the constable stands and circles the table standing next to Rhea, "someone killed Lord Beltaine and if I cannot find the real killer a drow will serve just fine. I doubt you would be missed."

Rhea scowls at the constable as he turns and exits the room the noble woman following him giving Rhea a wayward glance as she exits. With a sigh Rhea relaxes slightly and then turns to Agis, confused.

"I apologize Miss Twiceborn, for all the trouble I have cause you," he says solemnly.

"What is to happen to me?" Rhea retorts concerned.

"Most likely you will be found guilty of being a spy, and the penalty is the death of the undying. Your soul will be crushed yet trapped to suffer torment for eternity."

Rhea winces, "But I have done nothing wrong."

"I know but the people will demand justice, even if there is no justice to be done. I am trying to help you as best as I can, there may be a way to avoid that fate, but I suspect you will not like the alternative."

Rhea nods for him continue.

Agis stands, "You can seek bondage, you would need a patron but you would escape death and serve in bondage for one years time, either this or death."

Rhea shakes her head, "Death or slavery."
Agis nods, "I am sorry I wish I could do more."

Rhea thinks for a moment, "I want to speak with a Crown Representative, there must be justice somewhere. Agis I appreciate your help but I wish to speak with a representative of the crown. Let me put my case in front of them."

Agis nods, "I will see what I can do. Be well till we meet again Rhea."

As he leaves the guards enter and escort Rhea to her cell to languish till her eventual trial. Rhea is placed roughly back in her cell and the door is slammed shut. Rhea sighs and decides to pray to her goddess, she dances and twirls in the small space, spinning faster and faster. Her senses drift as she feels the soft wind upon her skin, the sounds of the night haunting her ears. She can feel her senses hovering between two realities, as she opens her eyes, silent trees of great age brood over her. The grand trees twist upward high into the sky, the stars obscured by the green canopy hundreds of fee above her. The sight bewilders her, but the low feral growl of a war cat brings her back to her senses.
Her eyes follow the sound to a large white tiger with two long tusk-like front teeth; the creature leaps down and slowly circles her. Rhea instinctively reaches for her blade unconsciously, grasping only air. The smells and sounds seem too vivid to be a dream as she stares into the eyes of the creature. The great cat crouches as if to pounce before a high pitched whistle sounds throughout the woods. Rhea glances quickly as a figure leaps down from a low-lying branch, the figure smiles cheerfully. The figure kneels next to the great cat, and nuzzles cheerfully then looks at Rhea quizzically.

The individual has a charming smile, which contrasts with his very drow appearance. His skin is darkest ebony, and his eyes a strong violet, with wild stark white hair framing his face. Rhea notices a monkey-like tail swishing back and forth, and the figure stands and greets Rhea.

"Jaku mali basi reto ma?"

Rhea blinks quizzically, "I am Rhea Twiceborn."

The figure nods, "Rhea Ticiwbornu?"

Rhea nods, "close enough, where am I?"

"Taki mahu, Jarula yahi, naki moku," the figure shrugs and points at the large cat.
Rhea shakes her head and begins to use a variety of languages; the figure recognizes the elven tongue and nods appreciatively.

"You speak the tongue of the outworlders, stranger," the figure smiles.

"Outworlders," shakes her head, "where am I?"
"You do not know, you are here, and we are here what more do you need. Oh I am sorry that Jarula scared you, he is not always that menacing," he glances at the great cat that is now slumbering.

"I see, but where am I."

"You are near Sivael my home."

Rhea nods, "I am not sure where that is, are you familiar with Cormyr?"

The man shakes his head, "No, but I do not know much about the outworlders, the elders may know," he smiles winsomely and continues, "my name is Kalas Filos Dalar and that is my companion Jarula," as he points to the snoring war-cat.

Rhea nods confused not quite sure how or why she is here in this place. She decides to follow the stranger back to his city of Sivael to find some possible answers. The journey is not far as they breach the edge of the forest to reveal a city made of towers of glowing crystal. The city is alive with light and energy as brilliant lights zip about the majestic towers, amidst flying crystalline craft. Rhea is awed by the sight as they approach a circular platform made of the crystal structure. Kalas makes a gesture and the platform lifts off the ground and zips through the glowing crystalline towers with ease. They approach a glowing purple tower and the platform hovers at a balcony entrance; Kalas assists Rhea off the platform and leads her into the inner sanctum of the structure. A motley of rugs and pillows is strewn about the room in the center is a woman, of the same race as Kalas sitting in a lotus position. Kalas nods Rhea forward, and takes his leave once she has entered.

Rhea approaches the elder, who looks to be not much older then Rhea in appearance, the elder swishes her tail and slowly looks up at Rhea, "Welcome outlander," the woman speaks.

Rhea sits in front of the woman, "I am pleased to meet you, where am I."

The woman smiles, "As am I outsider, how is that you have come here?"

Rhea shakes her head confused, "I do not know why the Dancer would bring me here, nor how I am to get back from whence I came."

"The Dancer?"

"Eilestraee, my goddess, I believe she has brought me here for what reason I do not know."

"Ahh you speak of the name given to our Mistress of the Moon, Serael, that is name I have heard you outsiders call her. Hmm, from what I can see you are not truly here, but like a dream, child. You have only to awaken and you shall return from whence you came," the woman replies.

"I see," Rhea closes her eyes and tries to will herself awake. Slowly her eyes open returning to the dank and cold cell of the Quell jailhouse. She rises slowly from the floor, exhausted, batting away a rat that was chewing on her hair. She sighs confused at the vision and her current situation.


The morning came all too soon for Thev as he awoke in his bed, the first night in a long while that he had risen with the light of the sun already in the sky. He had been released late into the night after it was found that he and Xenon had nothing to do with the murder of Lord Beltaine. It was his hope that Rhea would be found innocent, but it seemed her case and only deepened as she was to be tried as a drow spy, and most likely executed. Thev was happy for one thing, to be rid of the company of the political whore, Xenon. The mage was talented but cared too much of his own status and not enough for the people who have suffered thus far. Thev sighed and cleaned himself up to get ready for a long day, the courts of Quell work quickly; Rhea's trial was today. It seemed the people did not want to waste time and wanted to have justice done, quickly.

The day of the trial passed quickly enough for Rhea perhaps too quickly as the time neared she was taken from her cell and placed roughly into a wagon with bars along the side, and then was paraded from the jailhouse to the courthouse amidst the populace of Quell. Rotten vegetables, rocks, and other objects were thrown in her general direction. The rest of the troupe gathered at the Beltaine manse and departed from there for the courthouse. The group arrived just as they were hauling Rhea inside, and they all quickly followed. Making their way through the throngs of people, Thev decides he needs to see Rhea before the trial and departs for her holding cell. The rest of the troupe stands around trying to figure a good place to sit and watch the trial.

While they are standing gawking, Aust notices a dark robed figure following Thev and heading towards where Rhea is being held. But before he can act, his alert eyes spot Turlus, the dirty scoundrel amidst the throng of people. The group decides to follow the thug and tail him towards an off branching hallway just in time to see him slip into a room. The troupe opens the door, revealing a small library and sees no sign of the scoundrel, until Aust once again spots the Turlus' feet from behind a curtain. The group moves forward, and Turlus reveals himself spouting off curses and appropriate rhetoric. Kyoko and Turlus share an enraged communication before the heroes charge into battle, at the same time Thev and Rhea are speaking of the impending trial.


Thev is standing in the doorway his large frame dwarfing the small lithe form of Rhea, seated before him. He was not at all pleased with the turn of events and the prospect of Rhea's execution incensed him even more. He was at a loss of what to do, was the law fair, no, but it was the law, should he takes the law into his own hands. Who was he to make such a decision, the thoughts raced through his embattled mind.
Rhea smiled weakly, "Things are not looking too well friend, but I have my faith, and it will sustain me."

Thev shakes his head, "I am sorry Rhea, I feel that I have failed you, and yet I am powerless to do anything about these chain of events," his eyes flickering red with anger at himself.

"Do not be sorry, Thev, it is not your fault, I can only hope that my innocence will sustain me and that true justice is done here on this day."

Thev folds his arms, "I understand how you feel, but if they do not, I do not think I can sit by and watch my shield-mate executed without attempting to you free you."

Rhea gives him a worried glance; "You can't risk your oaths for me friend that is even too much for me to ask of you."

Thev places a hand on her shoulder, "I am prepared to face the consequences to bring you safe from harm, I will let the judgement of the Dancer be as it must," he nearly smiled.

Rhea shakes her head, "No that is too..." her words are broken off by the explosion of the door as both her and Thev dive for cover. In the brief ensuing moments after the thunderous blast, a dark robed figure rushes into the room and pounces on Thev wielding a knife. The two combatants struggle on the ground vying for an opening, well mainly Thev trying not to get stabbed. Rhea attempts to help out while screams of panic ring out through the courthouse, chaos quickly following.


During the vicious combat with Turlus, the rest of the troupe is faring quite well even as the explosion rocks the courthouse. Aust once more showing his usefulness plunges his blade deep into Turlus gullet only to see the thug kneel and laugh madly. With a bright flash the thug is gone, and nary scrap of evidence to betray the fact he was even present. The troupe wisely decides to check on the explosion and make their way towards Rhea and stumble their way through the smoke, just as Thev kicks the thug off of him with some help from Rhea.

The assassin looks about the room seeing just how outnumbered he is and crouches preparing for an attack. Rhea and Thev both brace for attack, but then the robed assailant cries out, "For FREEDOM!" and then stabs the blade into his heart, killing himself. Rhea quickly rushes up and checks the thug over and finds that the knife was poisoned, and the virulent poison has already snuffed the assassin's life, she is surprised at how strong the poison is.
The group has little to puzzle this quandary before the Inquisitor arrives, and quickly takes stock of the situation. She is not amused and neither are her Purple Dragon Knight escorts. Kyoko seems very suspicious of the inquisitor, and is prepared for the worse.

The inquisitor shakes her head at the scene; "This is madness, I cannot believe that anyone would be foolish enough to attack the courthouse and yet before my eyes, I cannot deny the truth. I am no at all pleased with these events but they have only reinforced my belief that you, Rhea Twiceborn may not be the guilty party in this situation."

Kyoko blinks dumbfounded by the Royal Inquisitor's demeanor.

"Furthermore, you are as of now absolved of the crimes against you, but until further proof presents itself, you are hereby restricted to the confines of Quell under the custody of the Beltaine household, until a further inquiry into this matter can be resolved. Your belongings have been placed in the care of House Beltaine, you are all dismissed."

The group stands in utter shock of the pronouncement, but all equally elated that good and justice triumphed on the day. But mysteries still persisted, and it was obvious that the dark web entangling Quell was only growing stronger. But at least there was a feast to honor what good had been wrought.

[Aust Meliamne]

I just wanted to post some thoughtts from a DM's perspective, overall so far the story has progressed rather well. Although I am sure the group is feeling abit treasure light right now, but that will change in the near future.
Overall the campaign has progressed well and the characters are each interesting and each have a story to build off of, which is good for me less work. yeah some of the stuff in the game is abit wierd, but I have never been a conventional player or DM, and the story is twisted and wicked with plenty of twists, serious and humorous.

Oh and just an afterthough the night after Rhea is freed from jail and execution, Aust has a run-in with the incorrigible Melinda, Mel for short. The meeting results in umm... some bedroom gymnastics and well... Lets just say it actually does play a role later on, if a slightly humorous one.

[Aust Meliamne]

Session 4
Almost caught up...

Quell in the Early Evening, during Midwinter:

With the recent acquittal of Rhea the troupe of heroes began to once again focus on the business of rooting out the goblins in the sewers, and to solve the mysteries they have inadvertently involved themselves in. So far the heroes have succeeded in not getting killed, and it seems that the enemies they face do not see them as too much of a threat yet. Though the assassin sent after Rhea has them all up in arms. With the outcome of the trial, or lack thereof, House Dorbal came under investigation when evidence was brought up that they were in league with the goblins. Three members of the family had been sequestered and were being questioned extensively by the inquisitor.

Kyoko had picked up some interesting information while doing research in the Library of Quell, about a legend of a hero named Lathos. Her interest in history was sparked by an encounter with the strange urchin, Kilv and his talk about “shadowy men” roaming the streets. Lathos was a hero in an ancient empire that grew corrupt; he rose up to destroy the empire with the aide of his band of heroic rebels, the Shadow Crusade. He eventually scattered the old empire to the four winds and established a new kingdom, marked by peace and benevolence. His reign was not to last as he had passed on without heirs and his kingdom fell apart, or so the story goes. But interesting enough, his symbol a crescent moon with a blood red tear emblazoned on the shield has resurfaced upon the shields of these “shadowy men” Kilv observed.

For the most part the rest of the troupe made little headway into the mysteries of Quell, but had come to the decision to meet in the evening and search out the sewers once more. Thev of course spent the day with Rhea as her constant companion and in ways bodyguard. His heart was warmed that she was once again free, at least of the jail, and able to worship her goddess under the moon. He was also beginning to learn to enjoy the teachings of Eilistraee and enjoyed any story Rhea could provide.

The moment arrived when the entire troupe arrived at the appointed hour outside the Beltaine manse; each prepared to face danger. All except Kyoko, who was out with Agis doing research at the Magister’s Library. The troupe was resolved and set out across Quell on foot to the Lower Ward where there was an entrance to the sewers accessible via the frigid cold waters of a low-lying canal.

The troupe sloshed their way into the sewers led by Thev at the point with Xenon bring up the rear. The sewers were dank and fetid, as all sewers should be, with frozen chunks floating in the putrid waters adding to the severe chill. The darkness was overwhelming for Xenon, the only member to not possess natural darkvision or infravision. The troupe pressed on and paused at the room where they found the body of Lord Beltaine the elder dead. Xenon happily grabbed the torch present and the group pressed on. The sewer line began to bend to the right and the group slowly pressed on warily, small ducts of water pipes about two to three feet across jutted out from the walls pouring sewer water into the line.

Rhea paused, “Thev perhaps it would be wiser if someone more subtle took the lead.”

Thev turned, “what do you mean by more subtle, I am very subtle,” he said sternly his hands tightly gripped about greatsword.

Rhea shook her head, “I meant someone slightly more stealthy, as to not alert our enemies,” she whispered.

Xenon shrugged, “well who do you suggest?”

The troupe took a brief moment to conference and eventually elected Talindra as the victim to blunder forward and scout ahead. Talindra shrugged winsomely and was about to step off when the troupe noticed a flaming bottle, i.e. molotov cocktail, fly from one of the sewer pipes into their midst, centering on poor Aust. Thev dove for cover as did much of the rest of the group, but the firestorm from the exploding bottle caught everyone else except Thev who was lucky enough to reach safety. A stubby goblin hobbled out of the pipe and splashed in the water as the flames cleared quickly, Aust reacted quickly and was able to skewer the little thug before he got far. The troupe spent a few moments administering healing, with Rhea and Aust receiving the bulk of the treatments. After recovering from the little ambush, the group pressed on