Siberys Seven: Heroes of Eberron

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This will be my second Eberron (1) Storyhour. This one is similiar to my Darksun storyhour. I have created and will run these characters. Events told here may influence my Creation Schema storyhour even as that storyhour had direct ties to this storyhour.

I hope you enjoy it.

As a readers Aid for folks unfamiliar with Eberron or curious about my NPCs and additions I have started a Glossary. Glossary includes the numbered blue persons, places, things and others. See the link within my Storyhour area of "Stuff of Interest".

Hope you enjoy it.

 

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EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 001
“It Began Within a Tavern “

It began one rainy night in Sharn. It was a cold rain. The kind of rain that chilled one to the bone. It was the 23rd of Olarune in 999. To the far north, supernatural blizzards buried entire villages within the mountains of Khorvaire. Sharn, a Breland massive city, was located in the south. The storms lost their snow but instead rained a cold rain.

It was a sign of things to come.

But this could not keep the area known as Center Bridge (2) quiet. The adventurers came here to get out of the cold and dampness. They came to drink, party and in general unwind. This is where this story begins. Center Bridge- at a tavern known as The Adventurers Home. (3)
It was only first bell and it was already out of hand. Two fights had broken out. One over a girl and another settled by the same girl. Her name is Leeya (4). It began where two men were fighting to court her. When it became a fight, a warrior wearing strange armor broke up the fight. He was no paladin. He punched when men were down and more than once struck below the belt. However it was obvious he was noble and a good man. His name- Vander (5).

In another corner of The Adventurers Home was a tall woman whom had yet to lose an arm wrestling match. She even beat a pure blood orc whom was visiting from the Shadow Marches. Her name is Bora (6) . A charismatic young man lost interest watching her when a woman began to whisper in his ear. His smile suggested a night of wild entertainment and fun. His name is Mania (7) . A female dwarf stepped up see the entertainment. She was armored and worn a holy symbol on her shoulder. She had a few too many drinks herself. Her name is Dura (8).

Ignored by everyone was a warforged warrior. He stood in the back corner observing and trying to understand the strange behavior before it. He watched the woman and the man in black armor wander to the back after she whispered something in his ear. Another man also whispered something to a woman whom then slapped him. When he protested she beat him bloody. Humans are so strange. No wonder the Lord of Blades (9) wants them removed from power. No wonder he was trying to create the new warforged warriors. A new generation with special powers and abilities like him. His name is Incarnum (10) .

All of this and more were happening at once when the paladin arrived. She had never been here before and wished to stop. She herself was an adventurer and this place was one for adventurers. She stopped in amazement at the doorway. Her name is Aura (11) .

These seven diverse people were soon to gather and become a force of good. They were to become known as The Siberys Seven. Currently they were either drunk and disorderly or bewildered at the sight of drunken and disorderly adventurers.

Meanwhile, outside, green vapors (12) had been rising from the sewers for several hours now. A few reports came in to the local law enforcement group whom did go below to investigate. That was over 6 hours ago. A lot can happen in six hours.

It began with a scream.

From below walked several homeless shrouded in green vapors. As the vapors cleared and escaped into the night air it became questionable whom or what these homeless were. They were all pale with lose skin. The eyes were yellow or red. Their hair became more patchy, their fingernails chipped into claws. And they hungered.

The living dead were lose within Sharn!

But as this unfolded outside, within the Adventurers Home more events was occuring. A drunkard was about to make an important discovery. There was much more to this paladin than holy oaths and sworn duties to law and the goodness of the world. This paladin was far more than that.

The drunkard had a drinking contest with a young man (13)wearing leather armor. He was a big and mean man whom once drank a small keg of dwarven ale by himself. He figured this mere strap of a boy had to be kidding when he suggested a drinking game. Loser buys. The boy seemed like he was losing but never did. When he first blacked out, he could have sworn the boy acted like he had nothing alcoholic to drink the whole night. When he confronted the boy about it he expected the boy to admit to magic. Instead the boy said something and he found himself outside in the cold rain.

The cold wet of the rain snapped him out of it and he went back inside to start a fight with the boy. However, a tall armored paladin type was standing at the doorway blocking any further entrance.

“Howsa ‘bout you move yo butt” mumbles the very drunk bully.

The paladin slowly turns. The armor is golden with a bright blue cloth tunic. Green eyes look through a narrow slit in the golden helm. Through bloodshot eyes, the man stares and ponders what he thinks he sees. “Your skin ..is green? …and all glowy…?”

“Excuse sir. It appears I am lost. May I ask …by the powers of The Sovereign Host!” and she pulls out her sword and pulls her shield from her back. “To my back and to safety.”

The man slowly turns in a stumbled stupor semi circle…”huh?” Dozens of partygoers climb up the stairs. They are knocking over potted plants and statues as they go. Some are armed.

They stop and turn and look at the paladin. Suddenly, in unison, they converge on the paladin and The Adventurers Home.

 

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Nearly lost this one to the Crash.....

 

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EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 002
“Undead Horde Invades Sharn”

“Get up Billy!” shouts a drunken adventurer whom a mere moment ago was dancing on a table. Billy, the drunk whom was amazed by the Paladin found himself knocked down to the floor as the undead pushed and plowed over himself and the Paladin.

The arm of one undead becomes detached as the Paladin tries to hold the doorway. Billy looks at the arm and more specially the ring on the finger. He then looks up to the zombie whom has forgotten about his lost arm. “Hubard- That you?” he says while trying to focus his confusion.

One zombie breaks through the window. He is wearing a city patrol outfit. Another looks like a homeless person whom used to beg near the Statue of The Gladiator (14) . The more he looked, the more he thought he knew these undead creatures.

In the back, the commotion at the front door was just reaching the partygoers there. Bora stands up to see what is happening. All seven foot of her. “Who else challenges me?” The dwarf beside her looks over. “Undead! Scores!” She quickly reaches for her holy symbol and her hammer. A smile clearly visible on her face. A smile matched only by the large barbarian.

The heavy armored warrior pulls forth a falchion and declares everyone MUST leave. Most ignore him. A few turn while dancing or talking to stare at him in annoyance. “Are you deaf?!? Undead attack!” Suddenly everyone gets up screaming and scrambling. “Smooth move Paladin.” Says the female mage known as Leeya.

The statue like warforged continues to study the situation. It sees happy drunken humans. It sees scared fleeing humans. It sees a few humans that look clear headed and alert. Those humans he understands more.

Partygoers splinter the backdoor as they spill out. Green mists swirl around them that escapes from an underground vent. At the front door the Paladin has reestablished her footing and holds off the undead zombies. She has made several conclusions about the city and its people. Few are good.

Upstairs, in a private room, a young pale man is being entertained by a girl dancing drunkenly for him. “Party is extra loud tonight. It looks to be a great night”

“We need to take this fight outside!” yells the mage to the dwarf and the barbarian. They nod in agreement and begin to push forward.

Outside- dozens of undead wander the streets. All shrouded in an eerie green fog. Looking further away, the sewer exits continue to spill out green mist and the sounds of screams and fighting can be heard below.

 

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EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 003
“The Seven”

The brisk night air startles Karen as she finds herself dancing half-naked in a private room. The curtains reach into the room from the open window. She vaguely remembers a cute young man at the club. How she got here and why she is dancing is unclear to her. Her confusion is furthered as the sounds of screams from outside pierce the darkness. She looks out and sees several adventurer types forming a circle with their backs to each other.

The adventurers include a tall and very strong female warrior, a dwarven cleric, a tall slender paladin and a warforged. In the center is a female she remembers from the club. She appears to be casting a spell. Nearby is another heavily armored warrior working his way to the group. And still another person stands out. The young man she saw earlier. He is sitting on the ledge of the building. He seems completely at home there. Attacking these people are dozens of people. Their skin looks pale and diseased. Undead!
She closes the window and dresses in a hurry.

“So- Stop me if you’ve heard this one. Five adventurers enter a tavern….” Begins the tall barbarian.

“Hah! I think I am beginning to like you Bora. If we survive this- we should hang out more often.” Shouts the cleric as she strikes down a zombie with her hammer.

“Are you mad? These are undead looking to overrun your city! Yet you joke like it is an everyday thing!” comments the paladin. Her eyes glow green from her excitement.

A green bead springs from the mages hand and centers on a group of undead. It bursts and rains web lines that trap and hinder the undead. “Give me time for one more important spell.” Calls out Leeya as she reaches into her component pouch. “We need help and we need to alert the authorities of this.”

A body sails over the five combatants. “Tell that to him!” shouts Bora with a smile. “He fights harder than most of my clan. Who is he?”

“Don’t know. I’ve never seen him before. He uses powers unlike any I have seen before.” Says Dura wishing she had more power to push these undead away.

A soft wind lingers around the mage then departs. “How are the others? How are the normal people of Sharn?” asks the mage after finishing her spell.

“Scattered the cowards!” answers Bora with great humor. “More for the warrior and myself.”

The warrior backs into their circle. “It appears this is the best place to do battle. I am known as Vander.”

“My name will have to do. I am Bora. You fight well warrior.”

“Hummph. You hold your own also. Do any of you…,” Vander pauses as he dispatches an undead, “…have any idea what is happening?”

“No. I fear no one knows.”

“The Mist is Green.” States more than implies the warforged.

“Our forged friend is correct. The mists came when they came. They have to be connected.”

Suddenly several beams of energy swing out and strike Vander whom grunts but stands still waiting for the next attack.

“Magic!”

From above, the young man sitting on the building’s edge can see a zombie-like figure 15 walk out from an exit. It is holding a wand that still glows. The crazy part- he knows the man!

 

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EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 004
“The Undead Mage”

From his spot above the others Mania, the young rogue, looks at the ongoing battle. A mage he knows often goes below ground into the city’s sewers has entered the battle by zapping the heavily armored warrior. Now entering directly below him are undead city guards! 16 What is going on here?

The undead mage begins with his magic missiles again but directs them at the group’s mage. Aura and Dura beat and cut aside more undead. Some of these undead are strangely dressed since they are wearing clean clothes of commoners. Not all of the undead are disgusting sewer homeless creatures. Leeya, the group’s mage is struck down by the undead. Even Vander takes another hit from one. He and Bora spot where the magical attack came. They call it out as they fend off more attacks. The warforged known as Incarnum uses his twin retractable short swords to destroy two more zombies. But they keep coming!

“That settles it. I’m in.” calls out the rogue as he sees the beautiful mage dropped by the magical attacks and slamming damage of the undead horde. He drops directly behind the four guards and attacks them. Dura strikes at another undead while trying to reach the mage. Three beams of force energy strike her for her attempt. “That undead bastard is beginning to annoy me folks!” With that, Vander strikes down a path and calls out “Cover Me!” and lunges forward. The undead try to strike at him but can not match his speed or gain a direct hit on his armor. The others continue to strike at the horde.

Leeya is given a bit of curing by Dura. She wants revenge and casts Flaming Sphere at the mage. He burns from it but moves back away from it. She doesn’t see this redirect the ball of flame. Mania finds the undead security men are tougher than he thought. Especially the captain! Twice their batons strike him. Vander goes into a full charge to reach the undead mage.

Leeya drops the Flaming Sphere and strikes with a fireball, which hits directly as the undead mage was now up against a wall of a building. The group cut down and slam the undead. They note Mania’s plight and call attention to it. If he heard their offer he doesn’t respond. Aura the paladin and Bora rush over and strike down all but the undead captain. Incarnum does that.

The undead mage looks from his burnt hands cursing then suddenly sees the striking edge of a weapon. It is the last thing his undead eyes will ever see.

“Comon- if the security are involved, it is not safe or wise to be on the streets of Center Bridge.” Offers Mania thumbing over his shoulder. They begin to move away when a soft breeze flows through the party. Leeya smiles. “They heard.”

“Who heard?” asks Dura huffing and trying to chase after the larger and faster people.

“The Dark lanterns 17of Breland.”

“They are a myth I thought.”

“If so- who is that?” she says pointing up. They look and see a lone figure leap from bridge to bridge with incredible skill and confidence.

“Lets go. That is NOT the Lanterns. That is Crimson Silver 18.”

“Who?” asks the paladin looking up.

“A vigilante.” Says Mania as he enters a dark tunnel that leads through a tower.

 

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EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 005
“No Safe Haven”

The adventurers look for cover from the undead as they go blindly into a tunnel. They follow the rogue as he looks up and down a few dark tunnels. “They are EVERYWHERE!” Let’s go down. It seems they are all above now. And he moves quickly to a stairway that goes down twenty feet then empties into an area with a ladder that leads down. The smell rising from it declares it an entrance to the active sewers of Undersharn (19).

Mania hesitates briefly, as he looks for green mist or a horde of undead. He hopes these tunnels are empty, as they are part of his underground territory. “Coast is clear. Let’s go.” He calls up to the six others.

They climb down as he guards the landing. The Paladin and warforged are uncertain about this. One feels she is running away from the fight leaving innocents unprotected and the other fears going into the sewers where the undead seem to be coming from. But they are too open where they were before.

As they move they reach an area of flowing water and notice the sounds. The tunnels have undead in them after all. “Great- there goes the neighborhood.” Mutters Mania. The paladin stares hard at the rogue.

They decide to cross the flowing water. It may create a protective barrier for them as they hear undead coming from behind them now also. Aura fails her jump and has difficulty climbing out. Further reason to dislike the rogue and his direction sense.

Meanwhile- flowing down the stream is a thick green mist.

Dura sees the undead coming from behind and turns them. She notes how they stare at her. “Guys- are these undead freewill? They seem to be acting …well different than I would expect.” The others watch those and listen to others coming from ahead of them while she continues to watch their intelligence and thinking. These are at the very least intelligent.

Incarnum swings his twin short swords in tight little arcs out of nervousness. “Is this your great plan? We are about to be attacked from both the front and back sides underground in their territory.”

“Some PEOPLE like to look on the bright side. They can only attack from two sides. Moving water protects us on one of those sides. Ranged fighters and casters should guard that side. The rest of protect here as the zombies become bottlenecked here. Its best to make a good thing out of a bad situation- eh?” He says with a smile to Leeya as he seeks approval.

“Perhaps. But I still wonder if you lead us here for protection from the undead or the vigilante above.”

Mania has no comment for this.

“Very well. You have made your point pale one. Fight here we will.” Adds the warforged not understanding the friction developing between the young man and the mage. For that matter, the paladin and the rogue also.

Once some of the zombies have moved back far enough from the ladders Leeya castes a web spell to stop the zombies and give them an exit if required. Aura thanks her as she climbs out of the sewer waters and stands waiting for any further intrusions by the horde of undead. Dura rebukes the undead again and once more they stop and seem to consider this cleric’s powers before moving away. “This is bad!” she states.
Many of the zombie-like creatures take to the ladders. “They are moving away but in such a way they can attack at any time and from anywhere. They are thinking! They are planning! They are intelligent!”

“Well at least it can’t get worse.” Mania states.

“Look around you moron!” calls out the barbarian. “What is that?”

He looks up the dark tunnels over the water. “Green mist.” He says dumbly. Even as the mist washes over Leeya and Aura. The paladin becomes concerned. This mist is not natural. Then they hear it. “What is that?” asks Incarnum.

Mania listens and gives a name. “Oh that’s Dumbskull (20). He is an Ogre that hangs out down here. If you leave him alone he generally avoids you.”

“Look again.” Says Bora pointing with her incredibly large Great Falchion. “Either he was ugly also or he is now undead also!”

“Just like the security guards….” Remembers Leeya as she coughs from the mist. “I’m going up. It stinks here and I don’t like it.”

They all go up the ladder to return to the surface. Mania is the last to go and hesitates. He watches the lumbering form of his friend within the green mist. Indeed, his friend is undead now. The mage, the security men and now Dumbskull. Something bad has happened to Undersharn. Something very very bad.

 

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EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 006
“Back-up Arrives”

“Anyone have a GOOD idea?” asks Bora as mania climbs out. He shrugs his shoulders and rolls his eyes at the insult.

“Instead of running from them- can we contain them safely? Asks the strange Paladin.

“There are so many. How do we stop dozens? Especially here? There are so many exits and tunnels in this specific area of Center Bridge. It would a few dozen of us.”

“Time. We just need to provide time for the real protectors of Sharn and Breland.”

“And just who is that? Crimson Silver? Some say he is as much a threat as the very threats he fights at night.” Says Mania to Leeya the Mage. “He is not only a vigilante but his methods are …well strange.”

“Sounds like you have had a run in with him.” suggests the dwarf as she sees three zombies turn their way. “I know little of him and even less of you. Yet I fight with you against these creatures.”

“Save the lectures. Here they come.” Says mania as he looks up. Four dark brown and black dressed men can be seen climbing down the walls of a tower. Three more appear at the far end of the courtyard, riding small floating disks. These three are using bows to attack the zombies.

“Dark Lanterns. Why am I not happy?” Thinks out loud Mania.

“We need help holding the Ferris Tower (21). Will you aid us?” calls out one of the men on the wall to the adventurers. “We are using that tower to protect people caught up in the first rush. Silver Flame clerics and Various House members are organizing to sweep through the city’s sewers to find and route the undead and its cause.”

Leading the way Leeya calls out to him. Six of the seven run towards the Ferris Tower. Mania hesitates then curses to himself. He chases after them before the Dark Lanterns stop to question him or mistake him for a zombie. Worse- if a Silver Flame member arrives…..

When they arrive at Ferris Tower they see chaos and death. A fire has broken out. People are trapped within certain sections.

Leeya and the Paladin search for a route or means to help people that are trapped. There are city guardsmen trying to put out the fire. A mage with a summoned water elemental is trying to aid but the elemental seems to be less than cooperative with him. Two sky coaches are loading people on board. Zombies are at the base trying to get in. Others seem to have gotten inside from the sewers or through special abilities.

“Do you see that bridge?” asks Leeya as she points to a bridge five levels up. “That bridge leads to five doors that are locked except for certain city events. If we could unlock or otherwise open those the people on level four, five and six could escape quickly while avoiding the creatures.”

“Great- so how do we get there?” asks Dura as she looks at the various routes and sees nothing direct.

Leeya reaches out and touches Vander. “Go and fly up there. You have strength to open the doors.”

Vander looks at her with bitterness. “You used magic on me?”

“GO!”

He turns back to the bridge and begins to float. Slowly at first then he picks up speed as he learns to balance his heavy weight.

“And me?” asks Bora the barbarian with some hurt and disappointment.

“I give you Spider climb- GO!” and she castes the spell quickly even as Incarnum and Aura begin to hurry to the base levels to deal with the zombies.

Leeya, nearly out of spells, wonders if giving he best escape spells away like that was smart but forgets it quickly as a zombie pulls a woman out of a doorway. She pulls her Short sword and prays to the Sovereign Six.

 

[megamania]

EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 007
“Crimson Silver”

He watched from up high with concern. The zombie-like creatures seemed to be coming from the sewers centered under Center Bridge. This area was a residential area / Entertainment area within Sharn. Many were trying to help while others merely fled. Then came the predators. Sharn’s long term threat.

He was originally surprised to see “Fat Feedcat” and his skycoach here. He was NOT a heroic type. Yet there he was going to the upper floors of Ferris Tower. Heroic? No. He was demanding incredibly high fees to be lifted from the tower to a different and “safer” region of the city. The jerk.

“I’m going in Red.” The mysterious hero figure states as he stands up from a crounched position high on the tower. The vigilante begins to run down the outer walls of the tower. Gaining impossible speed he uses his momentum to leap out onto Feedcat’s sky coach that is passing by.

WHAM!

The overweight catfolk pilot (22)turns hissing. He believes a zombie has attacked him from a bridge. Once he sees whom has joined him he wishes it was a zombie. “Bring the craft over there fatcat.” Demands the red and silver armored hero. “Those three people on the bridge have no where to go and the undead are entering it from both sides.”

“For you- anything.” Grumbles the catfolk. Silver Crimson has used his skycraft before. How he hated becoming involved in a turf battle between Gnolls and goblins.

There is a small red dragon emblem carved from a strange metal on his forehead. It glows red as the hero surveys the situation. He reaches out to the mother and her two children once they near the bridge. “Go!”

“Can’t. Too much weight.”

The hero surveys the overloaded ship and listens to the drone of the pilot as he complains about the risks and dangers he endures. Seeing no other choice, she turns onto the pilot. The totem on his forehead glows as does his own eyes. “Get these people to safety and without demanding money. If I hear of anything else I will HUNT you down.” An aura of fear flows from the vigilante to the pilot and several of the passengers. Then he flicks his wrist and red energy begins to seep from his hands as he steps off the wing.

The ship rises very quickly and swings away. The psionic long sword forms and once complete he rushes one group of zombies. Talking to someone unseen, he says “Yes- this is necessary. And no- I don’t trust him but at least the people will live.”

Three zombies reach him. Their dress and attire remind him of Cyre homeless people he has seen below ground. He cuts and moves to the rail of the bridge. His red slippers allow him to stick to the surfaces of the bridge as he climbs over the edge. The zombies go to that spot even as he runs under the bridge and circles to the opposite side. Before charging them he drinks a potion of Bull Strength. “Naw- I know its not the best idea but what the heck.” And he climbs over the edge and rushes the zombies from behind. He pushes two off the bridge and begins to bully his way through them. The fall destroys all of them once he has thrown them or pushed them over the edge.

Then a fire starts. “Great.”

Still using his spider climb magical ability, the vigilante climbs up to a window. He breaks the wooden shudder and enters the room.

“Mommy! Mommy! There’s a stranger in my room and he tearing up my bed!”

“Kid- get your parents and the others. I’m leading us out.” He is quick to use the child’s bed sheets as a sling and begins to take the trapped people out of the room to a higher bridge. After about the fifth person carried he notes the arrival of the Dark lanterns domestic team. “Yeah- I see them. Don’t care. I want to save these people first. I suspect Viorr (23) and his men will overlook the lawless vigilante. Trust me.”

And thus Crimson Silver works directly WITH the government for the first time.

Viorr spots the man. The King wants to know more about this “hero” and what motivates him. Viorr ponders which is more important- the citizens or the king. It will not be an easy decision then he spots a woman he has not seen in nearly six months. Leeya. The reason he and his men were able to come as quickly as they did. “The King will understand…..” he thinks knowing that he will not.

 

[megamania]

EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 008
“Unexpected Skills and Powers”

Vander found the five doors were well made and reinforced with iron. He could hear the pounding of fists and terrorized people on the other side. Bora arrived a few moments later. Her running up the wall did not surprise the Psychic Warrior. In truth he expected it. But where were the others?

“These doors resist my strength.”

“Together then.” Says the seven-foot tall barbarian. Vander wonders if she has Orc or Ogre blood within her veins.

The doors shudder and quake as they strike it over and over. The doors resist their efforts to being opened.

“Need help?” they turn and see a figure within the shadows. Mania has finally caught up with them.

“What can you do?”

“You would never guess what I can do in my element….”

The rogue kneels down to the lock. “Magically sealed but still a simple lock…..” He pulls out a few tools from his pocket. “You may want to cover your eyes….”

The rogue knows he will trip the magical wards and prepares for it as he sticks the first pick in. Electrical energy courses out and wraps around him. He clenches his teeth and he snarls. He sticks in the second pin to begin working the simple lock. Smoke rises from his hair and jacket. His body begins to glow and he concentrates further on the lock. “Such a simple lock but this …damned electrical current …. Hurts!” A trickle of blood runs from where his sharp tooth has pierced his lip. The door pops open and the stampede of people charge out. His legs are trampled even as Vander grabs him by the collar and pulls him away.

The wound on his lip closes up and he coughs out smoke.

“What ARE you?” asks Vander.

Meanwhile, Bora has been split away from them. A stream of constant rushing frenzied people has blocked her view of the two.

 

[megamania]

EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 009
“Morning”

The seven adventurers have put out the fire with the help of Crimson Silver and the various Sharn Law Enforcement teams. In the confusion Mania has disappeared. Crimson Silver, as always, has eluded the Dark Lanterns whom are secretly investigating this undead outbreak.

The occurrence of zombies has stopped but stragglers are seen in various hallways and abandoned rooms. What caused this is still greatly unknown.

The six remaining adventurers have agreed to the hospitality of Sharn. They are resting at a local station. House Jorasco (24)is at the station tending to their wounds and burns received during the night. Captain Turnwell (25)has many questions of them. Most of which they can not answer beyond the zombies attacked them within the tavern.

Then an officer comes in and quietly speaks to Turnwell. Turnwell becomes red in the face. He makes a fist then releases it in surrender. “Seems someone else has taken interest in you. May Aureon (26) have mercy.”

He exits before anyone can say anything. The halfling healers gather themselves up and leave as a woman dressed in black and crimson leather (27)walks in. Followed by an older man with a silver cane. Behind him is a young man with long blonde hair (28). The old man is very thin but walks with an unspoken grace and power. He stops and looks directly at Leeya then studies each of the others. “Where is the young man?”

“We did not get his name. He aided us then left when the worse of the crisis ended.” Says Leeya. Her mannerisms have changed and she has become very uneasy and alert.

“Where is Shad Chadwick (29)? It was he I contacted and expected.” She follows up with.

“He has other duties. I wish each of you to tell me your names, where you come from and why you were here in Sharn. Then tell me about the incident last night. Don’t lie. Nadia will know.”

In turn, each gives their name and background. Aura is very vague with her upbringing. Nadia says nothing. Vander is stubborn. He wants to know who the old man is and why he seems to command so much respect from the law. Leeya tries to shoosh him but he will not take the hint.

Once released, Dura invites the others her home. They agree expecting to find a small apartment. Instead they find her “apartment” is an entire level of a tower. “My grandfather (30) pays for it.” She says.

Here they rest and take it easy. In the next 12 hours they become friends but all are too shy to Aura about her origins.

Vander retreats in deep thought. Dura serves food that consists of Aundair wine and cheeses with Karrnath meats. Finally Vander clears his throat to get everyone’s attention. They stop and look to him.

“You do know this is not over. The zombies are still out there only hiding and the cause is not known either. Those zombies were living beings mere days ago.”

“Are you suggesting we investigate it?” says Leeya in stunned disbelief. She wants to but knows The Dark Lanterns will be looking themselves.

“And I know where to begin boys and girls.”

Everyone turns and sees the mysterious young man from the night before. “Hi- My name is mine to know but my street name is Mania. Please don’t ask me to lie about my background.”

 

[megamania]

EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 010
“I, Mania”

“Howdidyoulocateus?howdidyousurvivethoseburnswhatdoyouknowwhydoesViorrwanttoknowaboutyou?!?!” is said in unison by the group to the young man.

“I do sooo love my fans. One at a time please. As I said, I am known as Mania. I tend to know a lot about the streets of Sharn thus is how I located you. As the granddaughter of Kim Elderich it was not hard to locate you. However- you are slumming. As for me- I am a mutant of sorts and heal rapidly. Something Viorr and his people want to know. Including Lucian whom is in charge of searching for the mysterious and unnatural.”

Vander takes it all in. He knows this young man is lying but on what and why he is uncertain. Aura stares at him. She still wears her armor and it seems to shine as she looks at him. The others wait.

“How do you know where to go?” asks Bora.

“As I already said- I know what is happening on the streets and below them. There are facts you are over looking.”

“Over looking?” asks Dura.

“One- Some of those zombies I knew in life. Many I have seen before and recently. They all either live below ground or have business there. Two- The green mists came and stayed with them. Three- The personalities changed and they became angry at the world. Four- this one I got from your messenger boy- says the bodies were mutated magically and made into undead."

He reads the last bit from a note. “Give me that!” says Leeya. Mania holds the note high and away from him so that to reach it she must push her body against his. His eyes lock with hers for a moment then he smiles and gives it to her.

“Bastard.” She says while smiling and looking into his flirtatious eyes. She reads it through and agrees.

“By the way- who is this Shad? Could it be Shadow? Shadow of the Dark Lanterns?”

“None of your business. By our getting this Viorr has given us the okay to act.”

“The okay?” Growls Vander.

“Just whom is this old man?” asks Dura again.

“Most of it I can not say but lets just say he works for the king and keeps secrets for him and is very serious about his job. Serious at the highest level.”

“Translation- If he wanted to he could kill you in broad daylight in the name of Breland and get away with it.” Asks Bora.

“He has asked House Sivis to create a License to Kill for him. They may do it to avoid losing workers.” Jokes Mania.

Aura stands up. “Then mystery man, where do we begin?” Her intense stare narrows onto him.

“By any chance are you a paladin?” he asks.

“Where to?” repeats Dura to avert any arguments.

“The sewers.”

 

[megamania]

EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 011
“Snig The Yellow Fear”

“These undead- you have suggested they were mutated somehow. Possibly by the gas.” Asks Bora with minor concern. “How will it not effect us?”

“Don’t know. Won’t effect me and I am guessing the strange heavily armored lady won’t either.” Answers Mania as he peers down a dark tunnel.

“Why not?”

“Paladins are immune to disease.”

“And you?”

“Shoosh. We are near the tunnels of the Yellow Fear.”

“Who are the Yellow Fear?” asks Incarnum out of true curiosity.

“Snig’s gang. They are yellow skinned goblin thieves and cutthroats for hire. If bored or not hired they just get into mischief anyway.”

“Much like yourself.” Says a voice from the shadows. A short yellow skinned goblin steps out into their lantern light. “It has been a long time since you entered my lands Mania. I hope it is for a better reason than the last time.”

“Snig- still a sneak as ever. How is it hangin’?”

The goblin looks over the group behind the rogue. “Never thought I would see the day that you hung out with a cleric and a paladin.” Dura gives the goblin of look of impatience.

“Where is the rest of the Fear?”

“Taken by the Mist. Many I had to kill myself.”

“The Mist- The Green Mist?” interrupts Leeya.

Pointing to his eyes- “Lady – I understand why Mania tolerates you but do yourself a favor and shut up and let us talk. Underground I can’t make out color.”

Incarnum is about to ask why he calls his group of thieves the Yellow fear if color is an issue but decides not too. Humanoids are strange and he needs to remember this.

“So Mania- I suppose this means you are here to kill zombies?”

“Correct but more to the point- learn where they are coming from.”

“Then let us talk where it is safe.” And the yellow skinned goblin sinks into the shadows and Mania motions for the others to follow. Hidden within the deep shadows is a secret door. It opens without a sound and soon the group of would be heroes are missing.

 

[megamania]

EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 012
“Snig’s Lair”

The secret tunnel that leads to Snig’s safe meeting area is dark and narrow. Vander and Aura in their armor have a difficult time moving. Snig flinches every time their armor loudly scraps on a jutting rock. The nearly 7ft tall Bora finds herself likewise cramped. She needs to bend her knees to walk through the passage. Finally however the narrow tunnel leads to a grate and Snig motions everyone to go down. Mania gives an assuring look to Leeya and Dura. However, it is noted that he will not go first into the new area.

The eight of them are now in an open space. The smell of water is strong. “Where are we?” asks Leeya.

“Below Sharn. Now be quiet. There are many groups and predators within Undersharn. Each would gladly take you and your possessions to the black market.”

Leeya is a bit put off. She has never seen mania be this way. There is more to him than the flirtatious young man he makes himself out to be. Snig and Mania creep ahead of the others. Their forms are just barely visible in the darkness to those without darkvision. Dura, a dwarf, watches them creep to a gate. They look around and whisper something then go back to them.

In a hushed tone, Mania asks everyone to move slowly and quietly. He looks at the paladin and the warrior and knows better. But every effort is important. They creep slowly through the gate, which leads to a rising arched bridge. Once at the highest point, they look around and point below. Dura whispers to the others to be quiet.

Below, on the water reservoir, a raft can just be seen. A lone figure is on it. Unseen by the adventurers, another raft or means for someone to be there is under the bridge. At forty feet away, they can not make out details of the talk. However, Snig insists on listening in on the conversation. Leeya notes he has a cone shaped shell held up to his ear. It must be allowing him to listen in.

Five minutes go by then the raft moves away along with the person on it. Snig and Mania wait another five minutes before motioning to follow them. Leeya begins to protest but Dura motions to agree and move. They cross the bridge and find a series of new tunnels. Some are for walking and others are water chutes. Snig motions to enter a chute and about ten feet up they find themselves entering a small room with heavy curtains. The curtains conceal sight and sound as they pass them.

Fifty feet beyond these is a locked door which Snig has a key for and mumbles a few words in goblin before entering. “Welcome to the lair of the Yellow Fear.”

The door opens and inside is a 25 x 25-foot room with several hammocks and crates used for tables and chairs. Two short pale green goblins are playing cards in a corner with a lantern burning. Without looking up they greet Snig. “Hey Boss.”

Snig clears his throat then steps over and slams the head of one goblin onto the table. The other goblin jumps up. “Company! Big people! Alive people!” He jabbers in a mix of common and goblin.

“Guard the room. NO. NO. Do I make myself clear? No cards.” Says Snig with some anger.

He passes them after kicking the stunned goblin with a bloody nose while it still sits on the floor. The adventurers pass them wondering what they have gotten themselves into.

Within a new room which is better kept and also clean, Snig and adventurers gather.

“What was that about on the bridge?” demands Leeya of Snig and Mania.

“As I was saying before, there are many groups here. Clans or gangs if you will. Everyone is nervous about these undead suddenly appearing.”

“Yes everyone. Including Lady Calderus.” Adds Snig quietly.

“Who is that?” asks Dura.

“Very powerful ruler here. Undead. Vampire. We Yellow Fear thieves avoid her and her people as much as possible.”

“And who else?” asks Aura unhappy with this cat and mouse game.

“Not sure. Could be the Jack of Irons. Could be Silver Crimson for all I know. Someone she respects so I avoid him.”

“Enough.” Says Vander with no room for argument. “What are we here for?”

Snig takes off his green cap and scratches his balding scalp. “Its undead vs. Undead. She is battling the undead. The other person is to take care of the higher levels.”

Leeya sighs.

“Aura looks at Mania and the goblin contemplating what to say and how to word it. “Mania, you lead us to this goblin “rogue” for information. What information does he have? I suspect it is more than what he believes he heard when listening in on these creatures.” It is obvious her patience is thinning.

The goblin chews his lower lip and squints at the paladin then at Mania. “Paladin?” He says with a disgusted look.

“Yup.”

“Human or elven?”

“I doubt either.” This moment makes everyone suddenly aware they do not know either. The Paladin takes a step back. She is uncertain what may happen next.

“WELL?” stresses Leeya. Her strong and stubborn will comes to the surface. “What can you tell us?”

The goblin sits down and tries to pretend he is in control of this conversation still. He calmly gets a bottle and sniffs it’s contents. His eyes go blank for a moment then he pours some into a dirty cup then chugs the rest from the bottle. He looks sourly at her and burbs. Drops of spittle land on his table and floor. “Since you asked so nice….”

“Through my own resources, I have found out this is an act of aggression from an outside faction. It is aimed at Sharn and Breland in General. It will NOT be limited to here however. Somewhere, there is an alchemical mixture that creates these fiendish fumes that change living creatures into zombies of ill will. It is not limited to humans nor goblins.”

“Where does it originate?”

“I would begin near the surface …near Center Bridge.”

“Then we go.” Says Vander turning.

Mania takes the lead and they leave Snig and his two goblin thieves behind.

“What do you think of them boss?”

“They will have their uses. Come. If we hurry, we can eavesdrop on Viorr during his luncheon with the King.”

 

[megamania]

...and thus I am caught up and ready to begin Segment #13

 

[megamania]

EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 013
“I Want to Eat Your Brain”

“Do you hear that?” asks Bora of Mania.

“Shoosh.” I am trying to listen for details.”

“Those are men in battle and many are screaming. I WILL NOT WAIT!” calls out the dwarven cleric.

“Vander- stop her!” calls out softly Mania.

Vander chases after the dwarf but with his falchion drawn. The rogue looks back to Leeya whom is looking for spell components as she begins to walk past him. Defeated, the rogue draws out his daggers and gives chase.

They clear the corner and find a great and terrible battle is occurring. Two separate groups of zombies are battling a Sharn Watch patrol.

Vander leaps into the battle and begins to cut down many zombies from behind. Soon the others join in. Several of the zombies are not the typical homeless or commoners. One has magical abilities and flees as the group arrives.

The battle ends.

“Thankyou. If you had not arrived I do not like the odds of our survival. We were okay until the second group came.” The Captain holds his sword to his side and offers his hand in thanks. “I am Captain Donnerson.”

“You are welcome Captain. We are here to locate the source and hopefully end it.” Replies Leeya.

“They seem thicker as one goes down that tunnel. We dare not enter it as such. Perhaps with your help.”

“We are merely seeking answers- not a great battle. What ever is causing this is not a natural event.”

“Magic? There are rumors of a plague from the Mournlands. Could it be that?” says the Captain in fear.

“I will not rule out anything.”

Looking around Leeya notes she is missing some party members. “Where is Vander and mania?”

One of the guards points down the dangerous wing. “There. They went down there…alone.”

 

[megamania]

EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 014
“Displacer Serpents”

“Unless I am lost, this tunnel leads towards Center Bridge.”

“Yes. Yes it does. The first sightings of the creatures occurred here so we decided to begin there.” Offers the Captain of the Sharn Patrol.

The two impatient fighters go down the dark tunnel. Vander has produced a lantern to light the way. Mania seems indifferent with the light use. They enter a room with two exits.

“Left or Right big guy?” asks mania.

“Go to the right.” Offers Vander.

They go that way and after a short ways find a heavily secured iron door. “Hello…what have we here?” says Mania as he produces some tools to pick the lock. “What are you doing? There seems to be no threats here. We should turn back.”

“Curiosity I guess.” Mania frowns. The lock is rusted and will not operate. “You lead the way big guy.”

They begin to reach the room with two exits when they see lights. The voices they hear they recognize as the others.

“If you want to go and get yourselves killed then fine. Run off. We will not always come after you. As a team will do much better.” Scolds Leeya. “What was down there?”

“Locked door.” Says Mania

“No zombies” adds Vander with disappointment.

“Then lets go this way. The Captain says these tunnels are like a maze and we need to be careful about becoming lost. There is more down here than just zombies.” Says Leeya.

They continue on and find a set of broken doors. Being careful, they enter the room. The room inside is in ruins. Leeya looks at some of the columns and stone work. “It looks to be of the Dhakanni Age.” Says Leeya.

“Yeah. A lot of the stuff down here is.” Answers mania without any interest and little respect for the goblinoid age. Half of the group stay with Leeya and the others follow Mania into the next section. It is another room. This room has little within it. Mania goes to the next room. It is over grown with moss and mushrooms.

“Stinks in here.”

“Fungus usually does.” Says Bora “Wait! Is there something within the room?”

Vander tightens the grip on his falchion and inches forward.

Incarnum, the warforged student of a new magic type steps up to the doorway beside Mania. Dark serpentine creatures rush at them. They are hard to see within the darkness and seem to blur.

Incarnum swings his short sword and strikes one. Mania swings and swears he had the creature. Vander misses as the creatures attack. Both go after Mania but miss. Leeya with the others hear the commotion and call out.

Incarnum swings with both of his blades this time. He misses the first swing but drops a creature with the second strike. Leeya is told to hold back by Dura whom enters the second room to find out what has happened. Aura and the city watch continue to watch for attacks from behind. The lone creature attempts to strike Bora the barbarian but misses. Vander swings and curses as his swing passes through the murky aura of the creature.

Incarnum concentrates and strikes true killing the last creature.

“What was that?” asks Bora.

Incarnum figures it to be a magical creature.

“These fit the descriptions of a creature I have heard of down here. Displacer Serpents. Nasty little creatures.” Answers Mania.

“Be careful, there might be more.” Calls out the Captain.

“Finally” says Vander.

“What is it?” asks Incarnum.

“Can’t you hear that? Moans. More of the creatures are coming… zombies that is.” Says Mania as he motions into the darkness beyond the open doorway that exits this room.

 

[megamania]

Bump before EN World 2 occurs

 

[megamania]

Coming soon- the return of the Siberys Seven complete with glossary links. Plan ius to reach about 25th level. Hope to hear from you soon.

 

[megamania]

EBERRON: THE SIBERYS SEVEN
SEGMENT 015
“Oh RATS!”

“Why are we running?” says Vander as he is avoiding being pushed down by the others in the spiral stairway.

“Did you see how many of them there were?!? In such an open room we were doomed.” Answers one of the soldiers in irritation. Adventurers…suicidal lot they are he thinks to himself.

“I really think we are doing this entirely wrong.” States Dura whom is forced to nearly hop from step to step to avoid tripping on the stairs with her shorter legs.

“Looks like an exit is coming up.” Says Captain Donnerson, “It would be a good idea to regroup. We could bottleneck the creatures here at the base of the stairs, assuming they continue to follow us.”

Grouping up, the soldiers check the room while the others discuss recent events.

“It doesn’t seem they are following.” Says the Warforged Ranger with crystals protruding from his Mithral armor plates. “It is as if they know we are waiting for them.”

“Am I really the only one here that understands who we are running from?!?” grumbles Mania. “These creatures as you call them were once living and breathing residents of Undersharn. They know these mazes of corridors and water ducts better than even I do. They know this makes for a good ambush point. They may be undead or at least undead like but they are smart.”

“He is correct. Once more we are underestimating them.” Says Bora. “But we could still could have taken them on the upper level.” Bora was never one to run from a fight.

“Let’s not lose our objective gang. We came here not to fight the creatures but to find the source and destroy it. Keep that in mind….please.” Leeya says while making eye contact with Vander and Bora. Mania has once more dropped back into the shadows.

They move up to the next room and find a strange sight. The large room has a mild glow to it. Runes as carved into the floor tiles and a brighter glowing pillar is set to the far wall. The room is so clean it nearly shines in and of itself.

“What is it?” Asks Dura as she stares at the tiles trying to make out the runes.

Leeya steps up. “The original structure is goblinoid but the runes… they are newer. Much more recent. They have several layered spells… the same spell… active on them.”

“Safe to walk on?” Asks Bora wrinkling her nose at it.

“I think I know what these are….” Says Mania as he steps up. He holds out his hand, which is covered with dirt and filth. He reaches over the glowing tiles and the light becomes brighter. It appears it is trying to reach out to his hand. Everyone watches him as he lowers his hand to the tile. The dirt seems to lift away from his hand and balls up then disappears.

“Sanitation Squares (39) .” Says the Captain with mild humor. “ These were built by House Cannith for the city government. It is too control the sewage and such during floods. A water chute must be nearby.”

Each person crosses the room with small smiles on their face as dirt, blood and other such items lift from their armor, weapons and bodies before disappearing. “Its better than changing your underwear.” Says Mania hoping to break more of the tension.

The soldiers spot a short set of stairs and climb them. Heavy double doors are after this and they are open. They continue on to look into the room in case something is lurking here to attack their backside. “Nothing here sir. It’s a water chute.” Twelve chutes empty into this room. The floor has two 10x10 foot barred pits that allow the water to go into deeper sections away from the tower and the city itself.

Mania stops and motions for everyone to be quiet.

One of the soldiers moves over to a chute and looks up. “Huh?”

“company.” Says Mania

Suddenly dozens of bony filth covered large rats (40) spill out of eight chutes. They miss the startled soldier by it is obvious they are preparing to press the attack.

The soldiers are well trained and listen to Captain Donnerson. Using their tower shields (riot control) they form a wall along the edge of the grating. To attack the rats will need to risk the grating cover. Some of the adventurers hold back while others move up to the line.

“I will protect you Miss Leeya.” States the warforged as he draws out his second Short Sword. Bora also moves to her side. Her barbarian tribe in the Demon Wastes (41) understands the power of magic and what it can do.

Dura complains about the shields and how they block her view. She readies herself for any breaks in the shield wall. Mania sighs and takes out his dagger and flips it in his hand and performs other tricks of simple skill with it. He sees no reason to become involved in this fight.

Vander misses as he reaches through the wall. Aura kills one then steps through the wall to face the creatures. She warns the others of their disease carrying ways.

“I need NO protection Incarnum. She waves her one-hand and points three figures in the general direction of a rat she can just barely see as it tries to flank the soldiers. Three beams of whitish-blue energy streak out and strike the creature pushing it back into the small horde of Dire Rats. Everyone swings at the horde killing rat after rat. Mania looks over his shoulder and wonders how far this battle can be heard and then how long before more zombies attracted by the noise attack them.

The last few rats decide the battle is done and flee back to the chutes. The soldiers are happy their shield tactics worked and the others are…. Disappointed in the lack of challenge. Dura grumbles as she looks at the few scratches the soldiers took from the first wave of attacks. “I hope I don’t become everyone’s Band-Aid.”