The Westgate Campaign Chronicles - serial

[Carlo-One]

News
Back at the Gatereach guest house, Brok-Tul took a look at the scratches the owlbear had inflicted on Jokull, despite the warrior’s protests that he was fine. Jokull asked Rahnee how their chat went with Jamal. Rahnee told him that Jamal had been warned, although she was unsure how seriously Jamal had taken it; Brok-Tul interjected that he thought she had heard what they had needed to say. Jokull calmly asked the others to keep an eye on her, and the Cormaerils, as he was leaving the following day.

For Brok-Tul, it took a few moments for Jokull’s words to sink in, but Rahnee immediately recognized that Jokull must have received the information he had wanted from Stanslav at the Quivering Thumb. Jokull confirmed that indeed he had, and therefore needed to depart for the city of Marsember in Cormyr, where he had business. Aerikoth, intrigued, asked Jokull to explain further, while Rahnee asked if Jokull needed them to come with him. Jokull shook his head at Rahnee’s question, saying that he needed the others to be waiting for him in Westgate when he returned. To Aerikoth, Jokull explained that it was complicated, but that one of his enemies had gone to Marsember, so Jokull needed to follow him.

Rahnee asked who the man was, in order for her to know whom to kill if Jokull did not come back. Jokull informed her that his enemy was Wielund Cormaeril, also known as “The Knife.” Rahnee, smiling, asked Jokull to take care of business as soon as he could, so that he could be back in time for her and Brok-Tul’s wedding.

Just then, there was a knock at the door. Rahnee called out to see who was there, discovering that it was Jandrico Swift, who apologized for disturbing them. He informed them that a traveler had just arrived at the inn, asking to speak to the group, and inquired if he should tell the newcomer that they were available. The companions looked at each other as Jandrico shared the news that the visitor was a dwarf from Clan Ironhelm. At this point both Rahnee’s and Brok-Tul’s eyes widened and she said that they would see him immediately.

Jandrico departed to inform the dwarf that they would welcome him in the guest house. Their visitor arrived a few minutes later and introduced himself as Dwyvar Ironhelm, saying that he brought news for them. Greetings and introductions were made as the dwarf seated himself at the table. Brok-Tul offered a stout to their guest, who gruffly declined it, saying that they had to speak of serious matters.

Dwyvar, after sizing up each of the companions, informed them that he had traveled from the Giant's Run mountains to bring them tidings from his clan elders. Dwyvar indicated that he had heard of all of them, recalling as well that Aerikoth had not made the journey to his clan. Rahnee commented that Aerikoth had been present, however, when the group had discovered the remains of Dwyvar’s kinsmen. Dwyvar acknowledged this, stating that he had been part of the dwarfmoot that had met after the others had brought word of their dead kinsmen and Ashnakzeroth to his clan.

 

[Carlo-One]

Speaking solemnly, Dwyvar informed the companions that the “abomination” had visited ruin upon his clan once before, so they intended to see it destroyed, with Moradin's blessing. As Rahnee expressed her pleasure at the news, Dwyvar went on to declare that “the tidings I bring could mean Ashnakzeroth's destruction…or your own doom, should you falter.” While the dwarf’s eyes looked at each of the companions in turn, as if judging whether they would fail, Veran met his gaze levelly. (I cannnot know exactly what Brother Veran felt in that moment, but it must have involved great anticipation. Whatever trepidation he may also have felt, it seems he controlled it successfully. Such is the way of our Order. --C)

Rahnee's words were firm and straightforward. “I fear, Master Ironhelm, that this fiend will visit devastation on more than just your clan if he is not stopped. He already seeks the blood of Master Aerikoth to lend to his power. I will not permit that as long as there is breath in my body! So say on, sir. How can we aid the dwarves of Ironhelm?”

Brok-Tul's face showed his attention's focus on the dwarf, as his 'game face' when meeting new people dissolved into a serious, level gaze. “Let's do this, then.” With clasped hands, he sat with one knee on a chair, the other half-bent to support him while he leaned on the table. Meanwhile, Aerikoth continued to sit calmly as he watched the dwarf intently, meeting his gaze without altering his in any way. His face, as was typical for the short wizard, was neutral and void of any expression other then the obvious interest he had in their present visitor.

Dwyvar, his hard gaze having examined each of them in turn, appeared to make an internal decision and after a pause he began speaking. "What I am about to reveal to you now is considered shameful to Clan Ironhelm. As clan allies, I charge you to reveal it to no one. The fact I speak of it at all demonstrates the seriousness with which we take the threat from the abomination." Dwyvar forcefully spat out the last, distasteful word. (The dwarves must indeed have viewed the news of Ashnakzeroth's return with great dismay. Otherwise I cannot imagine they would have willingly revealed the tale that follows, which includes their clanmates' apostasy at the bidding of a charlatan wizard. --R)

"A decade before the Year of Sundered Webs, near to the time that the Netherese wizard Saldrinar of the Seven Spells became king of Westgate, another Netherese mage appeared at the gates of our citadel. Fair in appearance and smooth in tongue, he said he had come to pay us homage, for via his arcane arts he had determined that Clan Ironhelm had been specially chosen by the dwarven gods for great accomplishments. Although many distrusted him, some harkened to his words." Dwyvar ceased speaking for a moment, his face twisted in disgust.

"Saldrinar's deeds in the Dragon Coast were widely known and his fellow wizard – named Ashnakzeroth – was unusually polite and respectful, living humbly outside the citadel entrance and speaking honeyed words to any who would listen. In time, he accumulated a band of dwarven followers, who swore to their clanmates that Moradin had manifested his power to them, both in dreams and in the presence of Ashnakzeroth. Even one of the senior priests was swayed by the wizard's words and came to believe that he was Chosen of Moradin."

Dwyvar cleared his throat, as if reluctant to speak further, but continued. "One day, in a small cave near the entrance to the valley, a curious crystal tower appeared, with chiseled dwarven runes on it. They read, 'Let the Chosen come to me and I will give them what they richly deserve.' This was taken as a divine sign by the priest and his followers, who gathered their possessions and went to the cave. None of them ever returned to the clan and Ashnakzeroth, for his part, was himself never seen again in Ironhelm lands."

The shame was evident in Dwyvar’s voice as he spoke. "When tales later reached clan elders of goblinoid tribes worshipping Ashnakzeroth and the multitude of dark acts ascribed to him, it confirmed their fears that our clanmates had been deceived and led astray by the abomination. Rumors of new strongholds built for Ashnakzeroth made clear for what purpose he had taken our people. The clan elders debated on what to do, but could not reach a conclusion. Then, one day magic failed all over Faerun."

A distant look appeared in the dwarf‘s eyes. “Ashnakzeroth, we had believed, had been destroyed by this occurrence. At least, nothing but stories remained of his evil influence, told to wide-eyed goblin children. The Clan let its shame fade into the mists of time, memory failing, but recorded in its history lest we forget the true path. Then you came, bearing tidings of Ashnakzeroth's return and the death of our ancient kin."

His eyes focused again on the companions. "Before I continue, I would know if what I have spoken here rings true to you."

 

[Carlo-One]

Brok-Tul's face showed his astonishment, as he came to a swift conclusion. "Then... our dreams... weren't sent by Moradin himself... they were sent by Aszhnakzeroth posing as Him?" His brows furrowed in anger as he shuddered. "We're either played for fools, drawing more dwarves into the lich's trap, or... Moradin truly sent a warning to finish the job. I don't know which is the truth." Brok-Tul hung his head in deep thought, eyes nearly closed.

Rahnee chimed in. "We have seen some of what we believe to be his work in Amee Pass. We have spoken to a goblin chieftan who was moving his tribe out of the path of the ‘returning darkness.’ So, yes, to my mind, your words ring true."

Rahnee then looked at Brok with some doubt in her green eyes. "Why would the fiend disguise himself as Moradin in our dreams? We have none of the stout folk in our company. Surely it would make more sense for some of our other dreams to be driven by him if such is the case. Unless this is a calculated risk on his part to draw the clan from its mountain?" Her gaze switched to the dwarf.

Dwyvar's voice remained gruff. "I see no reason to doubt the dream visions that you spoke to us about. In part, because of this." The dwarf pulled a small iron box from beneath his armor. The box appeared functional rather than decorative. Unlocking it, Dwyvar removed a small, delicate-looking hammer attached to a tiny bell via a short, glittering chain.

"The metal is mithril, so do not be deceived by its delicate appearance." The dwarf's rough voice was moderated by a tone of reverence as he described it. "Our high priest, Iskar, had a dream the night following your visit to our clan gates. As he described it, he found himself in a cavern, much like the one you described. He was drawn to the sound of a ringing hammer and entered a chamber, where he saw a richly-attired dwarf working a forge. As he watched, the dwarf finished hammering and picked up a small object from the forge. With a satisfied look, the dwarf handed Iskar the object." Dwyvar regarded the tiny hammer and bell cradled in his hand. "As the cavern faded away, Iskar heard a voice ringing in his ears. 'Do not forget what my children have done. They have forged their souls into eternity.' He awoke with the hammer and bell clutched between his fingers."

Dwyvar put the item back in the box and locked it. "At the dwarfmoot, Iskar told the clan that he believed Moradin had given him the gift for a reason, one which had something to do with Ashnakzeroth. Iskar's words swayed those who believed that the clan did not need to take any action. In the end, I was chosen to journey to Westgate and deliver the hammer and bell to those who would fight the return of the abomination."

The dwarf regarded the group. "If you indeed intend to destroy Ashnakzeroth once and for all, I shall give Moradin's gift to you. We do not know how it should be used, but trust that it would serve you well in your quest."

 

[Carlo-One]

Perhaps Jokull had been thoughtfully considering the dwarf's words or perhaps he was selfishly focused on his own problems, but up until this moment, since the arrival of the Ironhelm emissary, he hadn't spoken more than a few words. The truth was, ever since he had decided to go to Marsember, everything else had become secondary to him. In any event, he might not be there with the others when the time actually came to face Ashnakzeroth. Making sure to leave not even a shadow of a doubt, Jokull turned away from the dwarf and addressed Rahnee, Brok-Tul, Aerikoth and Veran.

"This changes nothing. Although it might mean I will miss the fight, I am still going to Marsember." Jokull spoke firmly, before turning towards the dwarf, "I have little doubt nonetheless that Ashnakzeroth will be defeated. If I am here before the time of this confrontation, I will make sure of it. If my good friends have to face it before my return..." He shrugged. "They will take care of it."

Rahnee was still not sure exactly what she thought of Jokull's impending return to his home, but she knew that she could not stand in his way. His strong sword arm was a great comfort in battle, but Helm's Shadows would have to do what was necessary if Jokull could not be there.

"There are many things that threaten the safety of this land, good sir. And it is not at all certain that we will prevail against this fiend. But we have been drawn into this battle, and one way or the other, we will see it through with the gods' blessings." She smiled bleakly. "I am not sure we have any other option." And the gold coin in her hand continued its journey around her knuckles, folded over and around agile fingers, over and over again.

Brok-Tul rocked back in his chair at Jokull's comments. For some reason, his eyes showed complete surprise. But then, after Rahnee's statement, he folds his arms over his chest and bows his head somewhat.

"Ya know, Jokull, I used to hear Torm priests callin' from the Temple district, while waitin' on a particular alley or street, for whatever reason. They said something about this, I think. What was it? Duty before honor? Or... was it, honor before duty? What was it, Jokull?" Brok's eyes raised to look into Jokull's eyes, calmly. "What do they say? Duty or honor, comes first?"

Duty? Honor? Jokull stared straight into Brok-Tul's eyes, hoping that would be enough to answer his friend's question. Which is more important, honor or duty? He considered Brok-Tul's words for all of two seconds, and then shrugged his shoulders slowly. "If it seems like I am leaving you unaided at a time you most need my sword," Jokull spoke firmly after watching Brok-Tul's reaction. "It's not what I wanted. But the decision is made."

Aerikoth, still staring at the dwarven emissary, answered the question Dwyvar had posed in his neutral tone of voice. "Most, if not all, of those gathered here have every intention of seeing this creature destroyed. Perhaps myself more than the rest as it desires mine own demise for some agenda it has. Whether everyone present actually takes part in the creature's undoing remains to be seen, it would seem." The short wizard then paused a moment and without glancing at his debating comrades posed his own question to the visiting dwarf. "Does my answer of intention suffice?"

"Moradin's gift is yours, then, to use against the abomination." The dwarf's voice perhaps lost some of its previous gruffness. "Who among you therefore will take charge of it and protect it against the day you need its power?"

 

[Carlo-One]

Rahnee tapped a fingertip against pursed lips for a moment, and then sighed. "Aerikoth has the most to lose in this fight against the fiend. And because he can teleport, he is likely to be the last standing in case things go badly. I suggest that Aerikoth carry Moradin's gift."

Brok-Tul nodded to Jokull, his expression almost sad. "Yeah, I can't say I wouldn't do any different. I sure went my own way when I heard my calling." Then, he turned, listening to Aerikoth and Rahnee. "Yep, I think Aerikoth should carry it. If anything goes too wrong, he can use his new Diminish-Door magic to escape."

"I have such skill with the Art, that is true milady,“ Aerikoth stated as he turned his attention toward Rahnee, "but along with moving myself I have the power to move others with me as well when I do, so it is unlikely I would use my power to move just myself." The short wizard leaned back slightly in his chair as his unblinking gaze remained on Rahnee for a brief moment. He then turned to face Brok-Tul and continued in a voice that was as emotionless as the expression upon his features.

"I believe Brok-Tul should hold onto the item as he was a strong proponent in garnering the help of the Ironhelm dwarves to begin with, when I was not, and he is a follower of the deity of protection in these lands. Who better to protect such an important item until it is needed than him?" The wizard then tilted his head and looked back at Dwyvar, "Of course I would like a chance to study the item and perhaps make an effort to determine what it is capable of so we are better prepared when the time arrives to use it."

Rahnee's head snapped up in surprise. "I never thought otherwise, Aerikoth! What I was trying to say . . . and obviously poorly . . . was that if someone needed to be able to escape instantly to keep Ashnakzeroth from overwhelming us totally, you would be that person!"

Brok-Tul's level gaze met everyone else's, including the dwarf's, for a moment. "Hmm. I'm kinda the obvious choice, like you said. I don't like bein' obvious though if I can help it when carryin' somethin' this important. I guess you figured this out, Aerikoth, but I hoped you'd stay with us more often, if you also held the key to destroyin' this lich. I'll carry it safe and Helm will keep it well if we all agree."

Dwyvar snorted, but smiled underneath his beard at the same time. "I never thought I'd be giving a precious piece of mithril to an orcblood, but it appears that you are the best choice to bear the gift. You are of course welcome to do with it what you will, it is yours to use." He placed the small box and its key in Brok-Tul's hand.

With that, the dwarf rose from his seat. "I have completed my task here and will therefore turn in for the night. I depart in the morning to do other business for the clan. Perhaps I'll see you at breakfast, if you rise early enough. If not, may Moradin's hammer be your ally." By his attitude, he appeared to have said all he had to say.

Rahnee stood and executed a graceful curtsey to the dwarf. "We are honored that the Clan has entrusted this to us. May the gods grant that we are successful." She smiled, a dimple denting one cheek. "And may your god keep you safe and return you to your clan in a timely manner!"

Dwyvar replied, "You're a fine young lass, Lady Roaringhorn. I hope to see you in the clan halls after this is all finished." With that, the dwarf strode out of the room and walked down the corridor to the guest house exit, shutting the door behind him as he departed.

 

[Carlo-One]

To Turnton

The next morning, Hammer 11, Jokull departed early without saying any further goodbyes to his companions, which surprised none of them. The remaining four gathered at the Gatereach Inn for breakfast, Rahnee and Brok-Tul trickling in last. Jandrico Swift informed them that Jokull had stopped by a few hours earlier for a large breakfast and had said that he would not be back for some time; the Ironhelm dwarf Dwyvar had also departed early in the morning. (I cannot say that I agree with Jokull's decision, but perhaps I understand it. The warrior's quest for revenge had become burned into his soul, so much that he could not help but follow it, even in the face of a higher calling. --C)

Rahnee asked Jandrico if there was any excitement or rumors going around town. The innkeeper told her that people were still talking about Josurr’s victory at the Quivering Thumb the previous night, as well as the new barbarian gladiator Khaan. Before leaving to help Goruna in the kitchen, Jandrico brought in some of the new shipment of Mulhorandi tea for those who wished to drink it.

After breakfast, the group discussed their next steps and decided to head into town, each having some business to attend to. Aerikoth announced he would visit the mage Gondeth, to inform him of the latest news, while Brok-Tul declared he needed some supplies and to see a tailor. Veran and Rahnee also figured they could use some additional provisions in advance of their planned trip to Turnton. Aerikoth made the suggestion that it would be worthwhile to check at the Mercenaries Guild for any new business opportunities, which Rahnee agreed with. Aerikoth also made an oblique reference to the need to deal with the Thayan wizard at some point, while Brok-Tul wondered aloud what had happened to the recent “friend” they had made, meaning Marise.

Some time later, Aerikoth ran across the others in the streets of the Harbor Loop. He informed them that only slim choices were available at the Mercenaries Guild, the options being limited to capturing magical creatures for the Quivering Thumb, or “babysitting” nobles on guard contracts. Brok-Tul excitedly declared it an opportunity to get in close to Lord Cormaeril, although Rahnee made the point that it was unlikely he would need to contract for bodyguards. The companions then reviewed the options available for their next steps, including discussing at length the prospects for successfully manipulating Melissa to help them once they reached Turnton.

The group talked as they headed back to the Gatereach. Just outside the gate, Rahnee recalled that she had failed to follow up on the message she had sent to Thalavar Steward Iono, asking for a meeting that morning. She and Brok-Tul headed back toward Castle Thalavar, while Veran and Aerikoth went inside the inn to await them.

Some time later, Rahnee and Brok-Tul came running into the Gatereach. A panting and smiling Rahnee declared that she could run faster then Brok-Tul - especially when she cheated and got a head start while he was thinking. Rahnee commented that although Thalavar did not need any horses, a certain “friend” of theirs would be looked after. Brok- Tul, in a low voice, confirmed that Thalavar agent Garis had been put on Jamal’s case.

Jandrico emerged from the kitchen and served drinks for the thirsty companions, including the last of the Mulhorandi tea for Rahnee and a Dragon’s Breath beer for Brok-Tul, who fittingly toasted Gonzo with it. Taking the teapot, Rahnee led the others back to the guest house.

 

[Carlo-One]

Rahnee opened the discussion by stating that they were going to Turnton. Brok-Tul commented that Iono had told them that none of the big Houses would bother with hiring common mercenaries during election season. Rahnee said that it therefore would probably not be worth the effort to do anything with the Mercenaries Guild. The discussion turned again to plans for manipulating Melissa. Aerikoth raised the possibility of using a charm person spell on her, in order to force her cooperation. After some debate amongst the group regarding how and if to use such magic on her, Brok-Tul blurted out his desire to wed Rahnee when they reached Turnton. (Weddings sometimes turn out well among adventurers. Marriages rarely ever do. --R)

Rahnee, face flushed, stammered out a protest, reminding Brok-Tul that High Cleric Carlin had said he would not marry them until after they had taken care of their “little problem.” The half-orc pointed out that they could all die confronting Ashnakzeroth, and did not want to have to wait for Carlin to wed them in the afterlife. Rahnee said that she would have to write a note to her brothers, while Veran commented that he should write a message as well to his monastery. Looking somewhat panicked, Rahnee said that she would have to see about her “wedding leathers” and departed, heading for the Castle District. Aerikoth for his part indicated he would visit Gondeth’s shop and see about acquiring a charm person scroll. Brok-Tul, meanwhile, retired to his room to write his vows.

By the evening of Hammer 11, the companions had finished their tasks and gathered at the Gatereach for a dinner of sea bass and herb butter - except for Veran, who as usual requested bread and water, although he allowed himself a pat of butter this eve. While the four ate their dinner, Jandrico went to the common room to serve his other guests.

A short while later, Jandrico returned and addressed Veran, saying that a young lady in the common room, who appeared to have traveled far, said she wished to see him. She had declined to give her name, but stated that she had something from "Neferen" for him. Veran told Jandrico to invite her back to where he and the others were sitting. Jandrico departed and soon afterwards a young woman in traveling leathers and a hooded cloak, also sporting a bow and sword and looking somewhat weary, entered the room. She introduced herself as Belle and told Veran that Neferen had asked her to deliver a package to him.

Veran greeted her politely, although he admitted having trouble placing the name “Neferen.” Belle reminded him that it was the name of the head priest of the temple of Oghma in Reddansyr, who had some time ago conducted some research on Veran’s behalf. Rahnee, after noting that all had finished dinner, suggested that they adjourn to the guest house. Jandrico by this time had returned and, hearing Belle’s rumbling stomach, indicated he would have a dinner sent over.

 

[Carlo-One]

In the guest house, Rahnee put a box she had been carrying away under the bed and invited the newcomer to sit and make herself comfortable. Belle, acting rather nervously, complied, then handed over two documents and a pair of gloves to Veran immediately afterwards. Veran first passed the smaller document, a letter of introduction for Belle from Neferen, around the table, followed by the larger document, which read:

"Further research conducted by the Temple of Oghma on behalf of Veran Bron. Subject: Ashnakzeroth.

Following the delivery of the previous scribed report, the temple has made new discoveries, which we believed should be shared in the interest of propagating knowledge:

• 'Blood magic' is referred to in several texts likely associated with Ashnakzeroth's activities prior to the Year of Sundered Webs. Apparently life essence in the form of blood was consumed or used by the entity. It may have done this to extend its own existence, or to empower its magics.
• Although he hailed from Netheril, there is no evidence showing that Ashnakzeroth possessed any mythallars to power his spells and devices. Given the admittedly limited evidence at hand, it appears he substituted blood rituals for this purpose.

[Seal of Oghma]"

While the others were reading, Belle explained that she had, on occasion, been of assistance to Neferen over the past two winters. He in turn had thought that she might be of some assistance to the party. She admitted not being fully aware of the matter with which the party was dealing, although the priest had informed her of some of the background. Veran explained that the abomination had been stirring and gathering power as of late. A former henchman of Ashnakzeroth was in custody in Turnton, under the watchful eye of a priest of Helm. It was their belief that she could get them into the creature’s lair.

In answer to a question from Rahnee, Belle explained that she was a “finder of things” and a “tracker of sorts.” Rahnee observed that Belle looked nervous; the newcomer replied that this was her first time in Westgate, which did not have a welcoming reputation. Brok-Tul took the opportunity to make some pithy comments about Westgate’s nature. Goruna arrived at this point with Belle’s fish dinner, leaving it for her with a gap-toothed grin.

After Goruna left, the companions leaned back in their chairs and began to discuss the latest information from the Oghmites as Belle dug into her food. In response to a question from Rahnee, Aerikoth said that the information had not changed his assessment of the situation; his primary concern was determining how to deal with Ashnakzeroth’s ally DeeDee, or whatever she was calling herself at the moment. After watching Belle eat with some fascination, Rahnee turned to her and asked if she were ready to die, prompting Belle to spit fish across the table. Rahnee helpfully clarified that she didn’t mean from the fish, but that the situation they faced was very dangerous. Veran stoically commented that judgment comes to us all, with little choice in where and when we meet it, only in how we meet it; however, acknowledging the dangerousness of the situation was wise. Belle confessed to not being an expert lich-hunter, but said that Neferen had thought she might prove a useful guide. Aerikoth said that no one expected Belle to lay down her life, commenting that he hoped the group would have the wisdom to withdraw if faced with an unwinnable situation.

As Belle finished her meal, Rahnee made formal introductions all around and offered Belle a spare room for the night, if she desired. Belle gladly took the offer and was escorted upstairs by Veran and Brok-Tul. Aerikoth stopped by his room briefly, then departed the house, returning several hours later. The group slept deeply that night, awaking a couple hours after the sun had risen.

 

[Carlo-One]

In the morning, they took breakfast as usual at the Gatereach. Jandrico inquired if he should see about getting some more of the Mulhorandi tea, while Goruna brought in the food, porridge with honey and butter. When Veran objected to the porridge’s contents and asked for plain instead, Goruna fairly roared at him, but was sent back to the kitchen to make more porridge by Jandrico. (Sometimes I fail to see the point in pure asceticism, as I somehow doubt flavored porridge is the road to damnation. --R). After some time, the new porridge was brought out and served to Veran, who thanked Goruna for her trouble. Both Rahnee and Brok-Tul expressed their preference for more Mulhorandi tea as they finished breakfast. They also informed Jandrico that they would be gone for some time.

After retrieving some necessary equipment at the guest house, the group headed for the area outside of South Gate and the road to Turnton. The sunny weather which initially graced their travels had turned to a cold rain by the time they reached the Turnton/Glees road fork. Brok-Tul, Veran, and Aerikoth walked ahead while Rahnee and Belle lingered behind, talking. After a short while, Brok-Tul came running back, a bloody sword in hand, to make sure that the two women were all right. Rahnee then helpfully informed him that Belle had said to watch out for wolves. Brok-Tul told them they had run across and slain some “Knishnars” and was corrected by Veran regarding the beasts, which were called Krenshars. The party turned south again, hiking an additional three hours before they reached the northern outskirts of Turnton.

The group paused to examine a semi-circle of scorch marks outside the gates, which Rahnee thought had not been there the last time they were in Turnton. Announcing themselves as “Helm’s Shadows” they passed through the gates, where Rahnee bluntly queried the guard captain about the scorch marks. Looking uncomfortable, the captain directed her to ask the High Cleric about them. The captain, after welcoming the group, advised them that strange beasts still roamed the countryside - not a surprise - and that Baron Pahar, having been informed by the High Cleric that they might be returning, had invited them to stay at his manor.

Once out of earshot of the guards, Brok-Tul muttered that he hoped the scorch marks didn’t have anything to do with Melissa. The half-orc shared his suspicion that their invitation to stay at the Baron’s manor was so the Baron could control what they heard about any recent events. Rahnee took a practical view and simply wanted to see what the Baron would have to say, while Belle looked forward to spending the night in more luxurious surroundings than normal.

At the manor, the guards recognized the group and let them pass into the entry hall, where they stopped to wring out their wet clothing while Pahar was notified of their arrival. After a few minutes, the guard returned and escorted the company into Pahar’s audience chamber, where the Baron greeted them warmly and Belle was introduced by Rahnee. Given the lateness of the hour, Pahar eschewed social talk and moved on to speak of business.

The Baron indicated that he knew the seriousness of the task that the company faced and therefore wanted to offer what humble hospitality he had available, his coffers still being thin as a result of the war with Hallton and the ongoing predations of magical beasts along the trade route to Westgate. Pahar expressed his hope that the company’s deeds would have some impact on the infestation of beasts, which he noted began around the time that Ashnakzeroth appeared. In response to a question from Brok-Tul about the scorch marks, the Baron indicated that they were several months old, dating from the time of the Hallton war. The Baron also stated that, thanks to the previous delivery of certain items by the party, the High Cleric was certain that their defenses remained strong. Pahar’s words seemed to calm Rahnee and Brok-Tul’s concerns about the significance of the scorch marks.

(It seems that these marks - indicating what must have been a major fiery effect in the past - were simply not noticed earlier by the party. Although their interest in the phenomenon seems to have been assuaged - or perhaps diverted - there is still no explanation yet regarding their origin. --C)

 

[Carlo-One]

With that, the Baron showed the group to their rooms for the night and informed them that breakfast trays would be left for them in the morning. After hanging up their wet gear, the party slept a dreamless sleep, exhausted from the cold, wet journey. The beds in Pahar’s manor were rustic but comfortable. In the morning, the group heard a series of knocks on the doors in the corridor. Outside each of the rooms was a plate of hot, steaming eggs and bacon, along with fresh water. The group got off to a slow start, lingering over their breakfasts and then eventually determining that Aerikoth was not in his room. They caught up with the wizard at the Temple of Helm, where he had gone in advance of the others. (The mage is not lazy, whatever else he may be. --R)

At the temple, Carlin clasped arms with Brok-Tul and then welcomed the others, with Rahnee presenting Belle to the High Cleric. Rahnee’s introduction of Belle as being from the Temple of Oghma produced a doubtful look and a query from Carlin, which Belle cleared up by explaining that she was not a cleric, but was a “finder of things” for the temple, which Rahnee mentioned had sent Belle to them.

After moving to a side chamber, Carlin asked Belle if she knew what she was getting into. When it was clear she had not been briefed by the others, for example not knowing who Melissa was, Carlin instructed Brok-Tul to provide her with an explanation of what they would be asking her do. Meanwhile, the priest decided to look in on Melissa.

Veran began by describing her as a woman who had chosen to side with Ashnakzeroth. The party had previously defeated her, after which she was brought back to life by the power of Helm, channeled by High Cleric Carlin. Rahnee, in response to a question from Belle as to who or what Melissa was, commented that Melissa was a greedy apprentice, one who wished to stand high in the favor of her master;Veran interjected that she was a tool not to be trusted. Brok-Tul then mentioned that Aerikoth was the senior member of their group and had been present when the first ritual of Ashnakzeroth was prevented from occurring.

Prompted by Rahnee, Aerikoth provided a summary of Melissa’s story, explaining that she had grown up in the area and had a companionship with an individual named Zagath. She became a criminal and used to waylay travelers in the area until she and her companion fell in with the creature the party was hunting. They both had developed spell casting powers, when previously they had none. The woman had been called DeeDee in her youth and was known as a very fast runner. She and others that served her had assaulted groups Aerikoth had traveled with on more than one occasion; the final time, Melissa paid with her life but was brought to Turnton by the group to be revived. In response to a question from Belle, Aerikoth indicated that Zagath was dead, killed by the group Aerikoth traveled with the first time he came to Turnton.

Aerikoth continued his story, explaining that Melissa, as she called herself now, offered a deal to the group before they killed her. a deal that they were not interested in. Glancing at Veran, Aerikoth stated that some people had been quite displeased with her and her undead minions, attacking her shortly after they had rejected her officer. Brok-Tul commented that he thought they should have found out what she wanted to parley with, and use it to go against her plans. Aerikoth finished by stating that Melissa had been returned to life and had information the party could use, but she had only agreed to show them where Ashnakzeroth’s lair was, not just give them the information. Belle commented that they could have saved themselves a lot of problems by just listening the first time, causing Rahnee to choke on a laugh.

Aerikoth dryly commented that some did not have the necessary patience the first time, looking over to Veran, whose imperturbable expression never changed. (One should not mistake outward stoicism for a lack of inner fire. --C). Brok-Tul explained that Melissa had wanted Aerikoth’s blood for a ritual or something similar, prompting some worry on his part when they had been unable to locate the wizard that morning. Aerikoth clarified that Melissa had previously said another practitioner of the Art could be used for the ritual, but that his blood was preferable, having already been exposed to the rituals needed to fully return Ashnakzeroth to a corporeal state, even though they were disrupted when Zagath was killed. Brok-Tul also explained that Ashnakzeroth was one of the first liches ever created.