This diary belongs to Alvy Sarantyr-Falconbridge.
Dear Diary:
I, Alvy Sarantyr-Falconbridge was born on the 19th of Uktar,
in the Year of the Blazing Brand, 1334 Dale Reckoning. My
mother is Delandra Sarantyr, an elf of Myth Drannor, singer,
composer and now seamstress. My father is Tomas Falconbridge,
a human adventurer of Tilverton. I have one sibling, my older
sister Allandara.
I grew to maturity in Tilverton. Five years ago, my
sister left to see the world. My mother's stories of the
wonders she has seen in the world had fired both of us, and I
begged her to take me with her. She ruffled my hair and said
that she would be back. I have not heard from her since that
day, so I have decided to try and find her.
I left home on the 1st day of the month of Kythorn, in
the Year of the Worm, 1356 DR. I left to find my sister and
carve a niche for myself in the world as well. Who knows,
perhaps I could become rich and famous?
Before I left, my parents bought me a new harp, and a
set of matched daggers to protect myself. They also gave me
some money to tide me over until I could make my fortune.
Unfortunately the money wasn't sufficient to buy a horse but
I did not press. I knew how much my parents needed the money.
My mother being an elf, was far older than my father,
yet appeared to be as old as I was. She was renowned for her
grace and skill with the needle, even amongst the agile
elves. Unfortunately my father did not have the benefit of
such a life span, and is old for a human, being 40 years old.
He no longer is as spry as in his earlier adventuring days,
when he met my mother.
As for me, well I'm tall for a half-elf, 5' 11", but
mother says that I'm more graceful than most elves. At the
time I write this, I'm wearing a set of nice clothes that my
mother made me. Well, enough about me. Now my quest!
I journeyed to the village of Shadowdale to begin my
quest for fame and fortune, having heard that many
adventurers met there. On the way I passed through Shadow
Gap, an area reputed to be haunted. I felt fingers skitter
down my back, but met nothing more dangerous than a crow.
Arriving at Shadowdale, I asked for directions to the
Old Skull inn, having heard that it was the only inn in the
small village. I booked a room, the Green Room, with it's
elaborate tapestries I felt quite at home.
I played at the inn for several evenings with little to
show for it, although one night the most powerful mage on
Faerun, Elminster AND the most famous bard on Faerun, Storm
Silverhand, watched my performance and I even saw Elminster's
foot moving in time with my tune! Of course I knew they lived
in the village, which played a significant part in my
decision to come here, but I never believed that I would see
them!
I'm going to try and write in this diary every day,
perhaps one day I will become famous and my story will be
told far and wide.
8th Kythorn:
Today I was relaxing in the comfort of the Old Skull inn
when I was approached by a young human male; judging by his
robes, I assumed that he was a mage. He asked if I would like
to join him at his table. He gestured toward a table at which
sat a young half-elven woman. I was immediately interested,
and moved over to the table. I noted that the woman wore a
mail vest and held a flail at her side, which she continually
checked. Her nervous gesture told me much about her
inexperience.
The young woman rose to greet me, and motioned for me to
take a place at the table. She introduced herself as Aspena,
a cleric of Chauntea. I know something of that deity, as she
is well known as the goddess of agriculture. The flail at
Aspena's side came as no surprise then, the flail being a
common instrument of agriculture.
At this point I noted that the young mage had not yet
seated himself at the table. I looked around to spot him
conversing with a tall elf leaning on the bar. I looked at
Aspena questioningly, but she shrugged. I decided to wait for
this mage to explain himself, and settled back to watch the
patrons of the inn.
The mage moved around the bar, conversing with anybody
who were armed or who looked like an adventurer. Several
answered him with shakes of the head, and some appeared
interested, asking further questions, only to reply in the
negative. I began to wonder what I had let myself into.
The elf moved over to the table, and seated himself. I
introduced myself, as did Aspena. The tall elf was named
Swiftbeat, and I judged from his attire of leather armour,
longbow and matched scimitars that he was a wilderness
warrior, a ranger. He moved with a fluid grace yet seemed
very strong. I decided that he was an elf I would like to be
behind in a fight.
After a while, the young mage had spoken to everybody in
the inn bar one. A dwarf dressed in mail and carrying a
battle axe was noisily eating a meal. He appeared to disdain
the use of utensils, unfortunately for those onlookers who
were subjected to his meal. The young man approached and
spoke to the dwarf. The dwarf nodded in agreement between
mouthfuls, and, still clutching his plate of food, moved
over to our table. He introduced himself as Brun Ironskull.
It appeared that Brun and Swiftbeat already knew each other,
as they just nodded at each other. I resolved to watch the
pair of them.
At this point the mage finally named himself Miphon, and
began to explain what the mission he wanted us to do was
about. Hearing this, I leaned forward to listen. Finally I
would be able to slay all those dragons, reap all the riches,
and return to adoring maidens like a hero from my tales! I
returned to reality when I realized that Miphon was asking us
if we agreed. I readily replied in the positive, followed by
the others. Miphon told us to be sure to bring appropriate
equipment, and bade us good night. The others all headed to
bed, leaving me with my dreams of dragon slaying. Noting the
empty stage and the curious farmers, I leapt to the stage and
began to play a ballard I had heard from my mother. The
farmers appeared awestruck, or at least maybe approving.
Hopefully the rest of the adventure would be a little better!
8th Kythorn
This morning dawned clear and bright - or so Aspena told
me cheerfully, as I was in no condition to see it. If
adventuring required a person to wake up this early in the
morning, then perhaps it wasn't for me! I managed to drag
myself out of bed and walked downstairs to where the others
were waiting. After a quick breakfast, we all set out to walk
to our destination.
After a while on the trail, I began to change my mind.
Perhaps it wasn't so bad. Here I was, on the road, in good
company, with a full purse and seeing new sights. What more
could a bard hope for? With some discreet questioning of
Aspena I gathered that our quest was to collect some moss
from a cave nearby. At that I groaned! No wonder the other
adventurers had not accepted! Still, it was a little late to
back out now. Besides, I need the money that Miphon's master
will pay for the moss.
Further down the road, we encountered a merchant on his
wagon. The others would have rode by but I asked to see his
wares. Perhaps he would have something of use. My persistence
was paid off when I found that he had a book of songs from
far off Waterdeep. This I gladly paid for, along with a
larger book to keep my journal in.
After several hours walk Miphon declared that we should
turn off the trail here to reach the cave. As we moved
through the forest, I heard a crashing of bushes, and froze.
The others did likewise. Aspena drew her flail, reminding me
that I should draw my daggers as well. We paused while
Swiftbeat tried to peer through the bushes.
Then the creature crashed into a view. It was about 8'
tall, had green warty skin and a very large nose. Swiftbeat
yelled "troll!" as he drew his flashing blades and leapt to
attack. Brun spat on his hands and drew back for a mighty
swing. All of us swung or threw at it as it roared and
attempted to rip us limb from limb!
Over the next several minutes, Brun and Swiftbeat proved
themselves mighty warriors as they hacked at the creature.
Brun began screaming insults at it, as he swung at it with
surprising agility and strength, even for a dwarf. The troll
scored several nasty gashes on Brun, but he appeared to shrug
them off and continue fighting. Actually I don't think he
even noticed that he had been hit, as he appeared to be in a
frenzy of hacking. The troll was quickly dead, and Swiftbeat
doused it oil and set it alight. He explained that trolls can
regenerate, even from death. Indeed, I saw several of the
limbs that he threw on the fire still grasping at him.
Aspena prayed to her goddess to heal Brun's wounds, who
had collapsed. She was obviously in fear of his life, but
after a short time he managed to stand on his feet again. His
frenzy had appeared to exhaust him. Still, I was impressed!
Swiftbeat said that trolls were found on the Trollmoors near
Silverymoon where he came from. Apparently only large
parties of soldiers dared fight them, even then they
generally had many casualties. Obviously I chose my party
members well.
We soon arrived at the entrance to the cave that Miphon
proclaimed the site of the moss. Miphon pulled a length of
wood, wrapped in oil soaked cloth, from his backpack. Brun
muttered about humans as he lit it with his flint. Brun the
dwarf, and Swiftbeat the elf, could both see in the darkness
quite well. Aspena and myself had both inherited such an
ability as well. Unfortunately the light from the lantern
would temporarily destroy that ability, leading us to be as
Blind as any human in the dark. Oh well. Brun and Swiftbeat
didn't seem particularly impressed as well.
The cave was really amazing. In there we found the moss,
but also a whole secret lair complete with an evil mage! We
fought some goblins, and I hit two in the forehead with two
throws of the daggers that my parents gave me. Perhaps they
are magical? Who knows. We found the mages spellbook, and a
letter written in some strange tongue. I know a bit about
lots of languages, but I couldn't recognize it. The spellbook
had lots of magic writing in it, and Miphon was very happy.
I had a look as well. Maybe I'll try to learn some of the
spells from the book like Miphon suggests. Maybe they will be
useful.
Just a few minutes ago we gave the moss to Miphon's
master and the others are celebrating their new (relative)
wealth. I think I'll join them.
9th Kythorn:
At the moment it's the morning of the 9th of Kythorn.
The others have been talking about what to do, but I think I
convinced them to go to Comryr. Of course, I didn't tell them
about the Bardic Fest in Arabel happening soon. I spoke to
Elminster, and he cast a spell to read the letter. He said
that it was written in the secret tongue of the druids, and
gave us a translation. It's about two lovesick druids named
Nythi and Miradin. I guess that Elminster really likes my
songs! I will make a copy in the common tongue in my diary
for future reference.
Dearest Nythi,
long has it been since I last heard from thee.
This letter finds me within the Holdfast. Having departed
from Silverymoon some 2 days ago I have been labouring night
and day for any clue that can aid our search. However the
history of mankind is so vast and varied I may yet abide here
for some time. I shall meet you at The Cutlass in Luskan on
Midsummers Night to give you the details.
Love eternally,
Miradin
11th Kythorn:
I've neglected my diary, but nothing has really happened
in the last few days. We passed through Tilverton and I
called in to my parents place. They were happy to see me, and
wanted to meet everybody else. My mother seemed quite taken
with Aspena, and I think that she has plans for me. I managed
to slip away when they were in conversation. A good reminder
of why I left home.
12th Kythorn:
Wow! Tyrmora, goddess of luck must have read my work
last night because me met a green dragon today. It was only a
really little one, but still a dragon! We fought it and
killed it quickly, and Swiftbeat grabbed a piece of it's
hide. I think that I will use it to cover the spellbook from
the evil mage. Dragonhide spellbook - really impressive!. We
left before the mother arrived.
13th Kythorn
Today has been really busy as well. I never knew the
road between Tilverton and Comryr was this dangerous! We
were attacked by a fierce creature without warning as we
walked down the road. It was a creature shaped much like
another creature I have heard of, a lion, but with a tail. It
whipped it's tail at us and threw arrows at us! Swiftbeat
managed to wound it enough with his bow to drive to the
ground, but when we reached the spot where it went down it
had disappeared. Swiftbeat noticed a trail of blood, and we
all followed it the a cave. The creature charged out of the
cave but it fell under Brun's axe. I noticed while he was
fighting that the coat was very fine. I remember my mother
sewing a particularly fine cloak, which she said was made of
Manticore fur. If this is such a creature, it could be very
valuable. Swiftbeat skinned the creature, but said the coat
was mostly ruined from Brun's axe blows. Perhaps it still has
some value.
Later, we saw a horse flying through the air! Swiftbeat
seemed overcome with emotion, and Brun told me that Swiftbeat
had always wanted to ride such a creature, called a Pegasus.
Swiftbeat vowed that he would return to tame such a fine
beast.
14th Kythorn:
We met a group of Gold Elves last night, They were very
snooty, especially to me, Aspena and Brun. I guess that they
didn't like us because we are "half-bloods", and a dwarf.
Still, they let us stay and watch a dance they had. I made
lots of notes, and I'll try and turn it into a song on the
road.
15th Kythorn
We reached a castle this afternoon, which the gatekeeper
called Castle Krag. We decided to seek shelter here for the
night. I spoke to the chamberlain, and he organized a
performance for the lord and his lady. They seemed quite
pleased at my songs, including a song I had created about the
pegasus and another song I made up as I went along. The lord
asked me the name of this song, and in a flash of inspiration
I called it "Man and Manticore". Being thus reminded of
the pelt of the creature, I later bargained with the lord's
chamberlain over the value of the pelt. He felt he must
summon his lord to determine the final price, but I demured,
fearing that this august personage would be repulsed by the
as yet unfinished pelt. However, when his lordship arrived,
he seemed quite taken with it, proclaiming a price 10 times
that the chamberlain was offering, amounting to many
thousands of gold! I hurriedly accepted before the
chamberlain could speak up. I went to speak to the others
over our good fortune, and we had a celebration lasting into
the night.
17th Kythorn:
We arrived at Arabel last night, just in time for me to
enrol in the Bardic Fest. I still have to finish that song
from the gold elves, but I think it will be good.
The song wasn't as good as I would have hoped, but it
was still very good. Hopefully I won't fall asleep during the
other performers. Almost my turn, I'd better go.
18th Kythorn
The audience loved my song "Man and Manticore", and I
think that they liked the mysterious nature of the gold elf
song. I'd better think up a name for the song I suppose. I
won an award of Best Newcomer, not bad. Next year I'll try to
get The Best Performer, although the competition was pretty
steep. I'll have to practice a lot for that. Still, at least
the day wasn't a total loss. A very beautiful woman seemed
very interested my performance, and perhaps a little more.
She told me that she would she me tomorrow, although I didn't
get a chance to find out her name.
19th Kythorn
This morning, a servant came to pick me up to go and see
this mystery woman, unfortunately the rest of the party were
to come along as well. I subtly started pumping the servant,
but Brun butted in and rudely asked the name of this woman.
It turns out she is Myrmeen Lhal, ruler of this city. I
didn't know if I should be happy, worried, or angry at Brun.
I think Aspena was quite amused at my expression, because she
was sniggering all day. Women.
We went in and saw Myrmeen Lhal, and she has a mission
for us. He wants an item retrieved from a town to the east
called Raven's Bluff. By the look she gave me, I suspect that
the reward will be particularly pleasant.
We set off immediately, all of us anxious to see this
new place, although I suspect Brun was more interested in
returning and claiming the promised gold. Not that I would
mind returning either.
21st Kythorn
We passed through the capital of Comryr today, it seems
a strange place. I wanted to stop a few days and give them
the benefit of my performances, but Swiftbeat wouldn't stay.
He seems uncomfortable in cities, can't understand why. I
found out by listening to another group of adventurers that a
charter is required for all adventuring groups in the
Kingdom. We obtained such a charter before locating a ship
heading toward our destination.
24th Kythorn
We reached the small city of Raven's Bluff. It appears
to be a fairly cosmopolitan place, with ships in port from
far off places. We floundered around until Miphon thought of
asking where all the other adventurers who appeared to be in
the town what the occasion was. It appears that the city
watch often hire junior adventurers to act as the night
watch. We joined, and decided to get some sleep before night
falls.
Last night was very eventful, I feel I must write it all
down now in spite of my fatigue. We met many interesting
characters last night, including a vampire hunter, an
urban druid who talked to rats, and a pair of senile mages
who seemed determined to prove which one of them destroyed a
blue dragon they had both fought many (many!) years ago.
Fortunately Aspena was able to prevent them from destroying
the city.
Later in the night, we saw a young boy and an old man
selling fish hooks by the wharf. They didn't seem to be very
well off, and theirs was a circumstance I can only remember
too well. The reason my parents gave up adventuring are their
own, but it wasn't for the money. Anyway, I talked with the
boy and found his name was TJ, and the old man was his
grandfather. We promised to call around at their house later
in the night.
I almost forgot the object of our mission. We saw a man,
apparently a fish monger, suddenly shout and attack a
neighbour. Brun tackled him and brought him down, but
unfortunately cracked the mad man's skull in doing so. While
we looked around for an idea, an elf arrived. He is a priest,
and appeared to be a sea elf. The heavy fog currently
swirling around appeared to sustain him, for my mother told
me that sea elves cannot leave the water. He told us that the
amulet on the man was responsible for his madness. Miphon
tried to grab the amulet, which was the object Myrmeen had
asked for, but the sea elf refused to let us have it,
claiming it would drive any surface dweller mad. I thought
that he just wanted the amulet for himself, but the other
party members believed him and let him keep it. He gave us
several magical potions each, which grant us the ability to
breathe underwater.
As I write of this, I also remember the battle against
a very beautiful seaweed monster. A woman made of weed came
out of the water and attempted to attack us. Brun attacked
it, and it retreated to the water. At that point, Brun ran in
after the woman, even over his head! We all looked on from
the dock as he walked across the harbour bottom after the
creature. He eventually walked back out, with water draining
from his armour. I was again impressed with his stamina. I
had heard dwarves are tough, but he seems almost phenomenally
strong. Later, we arrived at TJ's door and entered. He
wanted to hear a story, and we could not refuse his heart
rending pleas. I cast a spell that Miphon taught me,
spraying coloured streams of light. TJ was entranced. After
TJ had dropped off to sleep, his grandfather told us the
story of TJ's father, who has disappeared.
I noticed that their house was well kept but poor. I
looked at the very full purse I had and handed it over to
TJ's grandfather. In response to his stunned look, (not to
mention the looks of the other party members), I told him of
Shadowdale and how if me moved there I would see what I could
do to help TJ. He readily agreed.
As we left his house, Aspena asked why I gave the money
to the pair of them. I didn't answer. My mother taught me
many things, but it was my father who taught me to give to
those less fortunate than yourself. It was a reason that we
never had much coin, and I had vowed that I would never be
poor, yet here I was, giving all my money away.
Before I go to sleep, I must note this down. While the
others were busy, I heard the clash of blades and crept away
to see. What I saw was an older human wielding practice
blades against a young female drow. I did not reveal my
presence, and did not tell the others. I know that people can
change, and I didn't think that the young woman, for that is
what she was, was evil. An event to remember.
25th Kythorn
We left the city this morning, on board a ship destined
for Suzail. I have much to think on, but little coin to think
with. Perhaps I shouldn't have given them that much money to
them.
27th Kythorn
We reached the city of Suzail. I didn't even suggest
stopping this time, as the thought of the reward from Myrmeen
Lhal drove me on. I think this surprised the others. The
others buy horses, and Miphon buys me one as well.
28th Kythorn
We arrive in Arabel, and find out that she is visiting a
friend of hers called Lord Tessaril in the village of
Eveningstar. I am saddened, but perhaps she couldn't wait for
me. Still, this Lord Tessaril should prove no problem. We
ride on toward Eveningstar.
29th Kythorn
We arrived at the village of Eveningstar. I found that I
had made a large mistake, but at least no body else knows of
my embarrassment. Lord Tessaril is *female*. I didn't ask why
she is known as a Lord rather than a Lady. Myrmeen seems
disappointed that we didn't recover the amulet, but still
gives us our reward. Unfortunately I am unable to catch her
alone. However, she invites us to stay at her palace in
Arabel for a few days. We hear from the owner of the inn that
a cave system nearby houses several monsters, and the others
decide to explore it. I will go along, I need the coin.
After I had written up my diary for the day, we were invited
to a dinner with Lord Tessaril and Myrmeen Lhal. It is a pity
that Brun was invited. I could see Swiftbeat regularly
kicking Brun under the table when he made various social
mistakes such as not using the utensils provided.
30th Kythorn
This morning we entered the cave system and found it to
be much more extensive than we first expected. A whole system
of corridors is laid out here, although it appears to be long
abandoned. We found several magical treasures, although
little coin. I am wounded severely, but Aspena prays for the
grace of her goddess and the wounds are healed. Still, my
clothes are covered in blood and ruined!
We have fought many strange and fell monsters in here.
It seems to be some kind of haven for them.
1st Flamerule
Miphon identifies the magical equipment we found in the
caves. I take a particularly interesting vial, which turns
out to be a potion called a Philtre of love. Apparently it
causes the drinker to fall in love with the first person
seen. Swiftbeat takes a spear with the word "Shimmering" on
it's side; a spear of giant slaying. Tomorrow we will enter
the place, which the innkeeper names the Haunted Halls.
2nd Flamerule
So much has happened today that I am barely able to put
quill to paper. In the caves we found a woman, trapped like a
fly in amber, dressed in bejewelled bikini. Miphon said that
this is the product of a very powerful spell, yet the woman
was freed simply by breaking the chains holding her. When she
was released, she swooned, and fell into my arms. She looked
up at me and a most indescribable feeling came over me when I
looked into her eyes of purest green. I grabbed the philtre
and gave it to her under the guise of a healing potion. She
looked into my eyes and I could see that she was enspelled.
The others were obviously not happy, but did not say
anything. I do not know what possessed me, but I felt as if I
was the one enspelled. We are sleeping separate from the
others, and yet never have I felt such a feeling being with a
woman before. Perhaps it will pass by morning.
3rd Flamerule
The woman's name is Miior, and as she dresses before me
in preparation for adventuring, I feel my blood stir again.
Aspena is looking in the door at the moment, I think she is
rather put out by my actions. It means nothing.
I find out to my surprise that Miior is also an
adventurer, a mage. I give her my dragon skinned spellbook,
using instead a book which we found in the ruins. Which
reminds me, we found a pair of magical books in a room, which
Miphon says can increase the talents of the person reading
them. We each grab one suited to us. I will look at mine
later, while Miphon will begin reading it now.
4th Flamerule
Miior has proven to be a valuable addition to our group.
Not only is she a mage, but she is very witty and graceful.
She has several magical items, including a set of
magical Bracers, which will protect her in combat and magical
boots allowing her to move in complete silence. Aspena
doesn't share my opinion, however. I never would have
believed that Aspena could be jealous, but I think that she
is. Brun, as usual, hardly notices. We are at town at the
moment, but will return to examine another set of ruins
nearby.
Miior can not say when she was placed in the stasis. She knows no dating
system. However, she was the consort of Rivior, a lord in this area several
hundred years ago.
Miphon says that a bag we found in the ruins is magical,
and can hold far more than its appearance would indicate. I
will carry it for the party.
We captured a strange robed man, who wore armour under
his robes, wielding a fearsome sword. Brun marched him to
Lord Tessaril, who pronounced him an ally. Brun gave him his
sword back with obvious bad grace. He is currently talking
with Lord Tessaril at the moment. Myrmeen is trying to talk
to me, but Miior is carefully shielding me from her.
The dinner we had tonight was particularly fine. Lord
Tessaril introduces the robed man as Yarrem, and explains he
a Bedine from the Anauroch desert. Also at the dinner is a
gruff man and a silent robed man. We solve the mystery of one
person to uncover another!
5th Flamerule
Myrmeen has asked all of us, including the others at the
dinner, to a meeting. She seems very serious.
Well, Myrmeen obviously has plans for us! She explained
that an evil group called the Zhentarim are attempting to
forge a trade route through the desert of Anauroch, and are
enslaving the people of the desert, the Bedine, to do so. We
are to help stop this. The others are to help, as such a
mission is likely to very dangerous and the added help is
required. Unfortunately, Aspena, Brun and Miphon are leaving.
Miphon must return to his master, and Brun is homesick, but I
suspect a more personal reason for Aspena.
The others introduced themselves, and surprisingly
Yarrem is a paladin of Tyr. The gruff man is called Barak,
and is a cleric of Tempus. I think that he is similar to Brun
in temperament, Swiftbeat and him should get along well then.
The robed man is Nightshade, a conjurer. He is apparently
from distant Waterdeep.
6th Flamerule
Myrmeen has asked us to travel with her to Arabel, for
there to the desert. Last night she managed to catch me
alone, but I distracted her for a moment and then used a
spell to make it appear that Miior was calling me. Strangely,
when I look at Myrmeen, all I see is Miior's green eyes.
10th Flamerule
This day we pass through Arabel, and bid farewell to
Myrmeen. Nightshade is given a token by Myrmeen, although it
is obviously not one of love. Even when Miior was
demonstrating her dancing talents in the costume we found her
in, he seemed unmoved. It's almost creepy.
12th Flamerule
Today we encountered a group of orcs, and by borrowing
Miior's boots I crept up to them and learned of their plans.
It seems that they were late for the sacking of a castle. I
say were because Barak, when learning that they were orcs,
immediately charges. Reminds me of Brun, really. The rest of
us followed suit, with Yarrem cleaving a fearsome path with
that huge sword of his. We also found a priestess, who
escaped by casting a spell. Barak says that such a spell is
very powerful, and also that by the tattoo's on her face she
was a priestess of Talona.
13th Flamerule
I tried to give the boots back to Miior, but she
refused, saying I should have them. She even pressed her
bracers onto me. While I could perhaps make more use of them,
I feel that perhaps this philtre has done it's work all too
well. I may have a talk to Yarrem over this, he seems a
intelligent person.
14th Flamerule
The sight that greeted us this morning was devastating.
Castle Krag had been assaulted, and obviously overrun. The
force that could do such a thing must be very large. It seems
our cleric of Talona was not alone. Several other adventurers
are here, and they seem very skilled. We do what we can to
help before moving on.
15th Flamerule
By the road we noted a well, a sight which did not catch
our attention on the way down to Arabel. As we discuss what
to do, Nightshade makes some disparaging comments in regard
to Miior, and in return I make up a little song about
Nightshade and what him and his weasel familiar named Thief
do at night.
I also discovered that the well was dedicated to a
heroic warrior named Lord Barcus. I can't remember any
warrior by that name in the past of the Dale's region. He
must have come form further aboard.
We eventually decide to drink from the well, and find it
grants limited magical powers. Yarrem finds a small lizard
creature, which he names cryptically Larry. One my daggers
begin glowing, but Miior tells me it has no other magic on
it. Larry the lizard leapt off Yarrem's shoulder and started
digging in the ground, finding a gold piece. It seems that
Larry can sense treasure, a very useful attribute. The other
party members had nothing obvious happen to them.
16th Flamerule
Somebody has attacked my harp! The strings are all
broken, as if somebody has cut them with a dagger. This
is even though it was kept in the magical bag we have. I
suspect Thief crawled in, and gnawed the strings. I have no
proof, but I will keep an eye on them in the future.
17th Flamerule
As we passed over a bridge this afternoon, a fearsome
troll leapt out to attack us. We attacked it, and realized it
was an illusion when our weapons had no effect. We searched,
and found a gnome who was casting illusions of trolls on the
bridge to get money from passer-by's. We defeated him, and
Nightshade charmed him into not doing it again. We obtained
some spells from the gnomes spellbook, but Miior said that
the illusion spell the gnome had is too powerful for her to
cast yet. We both can make use of the lesser spells in the
book.
The name Nightshade is obviously an alias, but
Nightshade will not speak of his proper name. Perhaps he has
done some wrong deed in the past, or is well known elsewhere.
19th Flamerule
We arrived back in Tilverton today. I visited my
parents, and Miior demanded to come along. My mother simply
gave me some looks but didn't say anything. I think perhaps
she learnt her lesson with Aspena. Father look worse. It's
terrible how quickly humans age. I can see that my mother
loves my father, it in a desperate way. I hope that never
happens to me, but I suspect it will.
20th Flamerule
When I awoke today, my father was conversing with a man
I recognized, a priest from the temple of Gond, town
councillor Ulverim. He had a mission for our group, and I
agreed to speak to the others about it. They are staying at
the Windlords Rest, except for Miior. My parents offered to
put her up for the night, and she agreed. I didn't really,
after all, it's not like we are betrothed.
Anyway, the others talked with him and do the mission.
The mission was to find and return the councillors son, who
was kidnapped for ransom, and taken to Spiderhaunt woods. We
left about mid-morning, and were attacked by wolves.
Nightshade cast a spell which he had just recently learned, a
powerful illusion of a fire which crackled and felt hot as
well. The wolves kept attacking anyway, but then, I have
never heard of wolves attacking humans anyway. Perhaps we
could look into it later. Miior was obviously itching to
learn that spell, and said that it is almost in her grasp.
We are currently camped in a dry stream bed near the
woods. We will enter tomorrow.
21st Flamerule
Today we battled spiders, as large as dogs. They
attacked often and without warning, but with the strength of
Swiftbeat and Yarrem we cut them down. In mid-afternoon, we
saw several creatures that we thought were Will o' Wisp's.
These evil creatures lead men to their doom, yet we should
slay these evil creatures before they lead another to their
doom. Curiously, they approached and did not attack. We
paused, and they led us away. Our group followed, and we
reached a ruined building. It is quite possible that
councillor Ulverim's son is being held inside. At that point
our guides left us. We are camping outside the ruins now,
ready to explore them in the dawn light. It is possible that
we are mistaken about the nature of these creatures.
22nd Flamerule
This day we examined the ruins, and discovered several
creatures. One looked like a chair, but attempted to eat me
when I sat down on it! I was unable to drag myself from it,
until it was slain. Shaken, I continued my exploration of the
ruins, and Barak uncovered a set of stairs leading down. We
cautiously travelled down, to find several evil creatures.
One of them, a small bat winged fiend, escaped before we
could slay it. Miior attempted to blast it with mystical
bolts, but they had no effect. We should be wary of that
creature in the future.
23rd Flamerule
This morning we hope to uncover the leader of these
fiends, and recover the boy before anything bad happens to
him, or us.
Well, we recovered the boy, but he appears to be
unconscious in spite of the attempts of Barak and Yarrem. We
will leave immediately, and will reach Tilverton late
tonight.
24th Flamerule
Unfortunately, somebody has fooled us. The "boy" was
some kind of complex illusion. We spoke to Councillor
Ulverim, and he had a cleric dispel it. Unfortunately, we
could not pick up the "boy" once we understood the nature of
the illusion. We will leave to return to Spiderhaunt woods
immediately.
25th Flamerule
This day was much more successful. Even as I write,
councillor Ulverim is reunited with his son. Swiftbeat is
examining the items we recovered from the mage and cleric we
battled in the tunnels under the ruins. They were supported
by guards, and from one of them I recovered an item of which
I did not tell the others. One of the guards wore an earring,
with a gem of deep black on it. Yet when I removed it, it
changed colour in my hand. When Miior tried it on, it changed
colour yet again. It is obviously magical, yet it's purpose
is not yet clear to me.
26th Flamerule
While I was there, my father told me that he had spoken
to the Mayor of Tilverton, and he required some adventurers.
I went and told the others, and we all went to see the
Mayor. It seems that a wizard by the name of Asflag, a well
known figure in the town, has disappeared. What is worse,
fell creatures are creeping out of the tower and slaying
animals. Before long, somebody will be killed. The town will
buy the tower from us if we clear it.
On further searching, we find that a mummy has come out
of the tower on several occasions, but it has ignored the
clerics attempts to drive it back. Several other creatures
have come out as well, including a large cat like creature
with two tentacles growing out of it's back. The creature
only comes out at night, so we have resolved to attempt to
trap it as it appears. To that end, those of us with night
sight will watch for it. I have enlisted my mother to aid us,
as we do not have enough people to keep continuous watch
otherwise.
27th Flamerule
We spent a hot night waiting in suspense for the
creature to show, but it failed to appear. I spent the
night reading the magical book from the halls. We will try
again the next night.
28th Flamerule
Yesterday, a gnome approached the party, and offered to
but the tower from us if we cleared it. The price he was
offering was superior to that offered by the Mayor. We have
not yet decided which to accept.
Again the creature failed to make an appearance. Perhaps
it is mocking us. Yarrem is pressing for us to travel onward,
I think the plight of his people is weighing on his mind. On
the morrow we will enter the tower.
29th Flamerule
There was some kind of magical barrier protecting the
wall, but we managed to by-pass it, possibly at the same
point as the creature did. Inside we fought several creatures
including a strange monster that attacked us from the water.
There must have been several of the creatures, for more kept
appearing as soon as we destroyed one. We eventually left it
alone, although Barak will try a spell tomorrow. The creature
that was eating the animals attacked us as we walked through
the garden, but it was defeated. I had very bad luck in
attacking it, for several times I was sure I threw my daggers
correctly, yet it was unharmed. Tomorrow we will enter the
tower proper.
30th Flamerule
Today is the worst day of my life. All was well as we
entered the tower, only marred by an unfortunate accident
with destroying a magical cloak. Then I found what appeared
to be a hole in the ceiling. I climbed up to look, using a
set of magical slippers we found earlier. The room had some
kind of pentagram in it, made up of several lines of gold
dust. I noticed a ball made of glass in a container, which I
grabbed and put in the bag, along with a silver ring lying
next to it. I threw down the slippers for the others to climb
up. Miior was next, but as she was walking across the
ceiling, a small creature leapt out and attacked her, tearing
her throat out. As she hung from the ceiling, her blood
dripping onto the floor, the others engaged the creatures,
quickly dispatching them. I was too horrified to do anything.
I then climbed down, and lowered her body to the floor. Then
the truly horrible part began.
I suggested to the others that we use the treasure we
had found to obtain the services of a cleric to bring her
back to life, for I knew of a cleric at the temple of
Lathander in Shadowdale. Yarrem agreed, and said he would
contribute part of his money. Nightshade refused, saying that
he wouldn't pay any of his money to help her. At that I grew
very angry, and ran up the wall, into the room with the
pentagram. I scooped powder from the pentagram into the
labelled bottles. I ignored the others calling from below.
After I had finished, I jumped back down and angrily
told the others that if they would not pay for aid, I would.
Nightshade demanded that I show what I had, but I refused. He
seemed ready to throw a spell, and I turned and walked out of
the room. Yarrem followed, and I gave the bag to him. I then
agreed to Nightshade's demands, submitting to the search. It
was not an experience I will forget.
I then grabbed the bag off Yarrem, and walked out of the
tower grounds. I knew that Nightshade would try to stop me.
I told them that I would go to Comryr to obtain the spell,
and went looking for the gnome. I found him, and he offered
to take the various powders off my hands. I sold it for a
fraction of it's worth, but it still should be enough. I
hope. I hope that the cleric will agree, as I realize I
couldn't bear life without her. If the money isn't
sufficient, then Nightshade will contribute, willingly or
not.
Midsummer
Yarrem managed to convince me to stay and aid in
exploring the tower, I agreed, but only because I felt that
the money and magic items I had would not be sufficient to
pay for the cleric. We found a library, so I placed as many
of the books in the magic bag as would fit. We also found
several spellbooks, which we divided up amongst us. I grabbed
a few without the party realizing. After all, Miior must
have her share as well. Unfortunately Nightshade suspected
this, and I decide now would be a good time to leave. The
valuable spellbooks could be used to sell to a wizard. I
left by the north gate, knowing that when Nightshade tried to
stop me he would block the south gate heading to Comryr
rather than to Shadowdale. The light is fading even as I
write this on the trail, so I had best leave my accounts
here.
2nd Eleasis
Luckily I encountered nothing this day, although I
suspected the presence of Miior's body would attract
predator's. The sight of her body laying their fills me with
rage, and I can not blame the dumb creatures which caused her
death.
3rd Eleasis
I put quill to paper as the cleric of Lathander performs
his rituals necessary for the spell. I don't think that the
funds I had are enough, but the priest by the eloquence of my
arguments. One of the acolytes has just told me not to hope
too much, as sometimes the spirit of the body is unwilling to
leave it's location. But all I can do is hope.
Praise be to Milil! Miior is alright! I saw her after
the ritual, and her body was whole and she breathed. She
looked into my eyes, and I knew that I could never leave her.
She still appears devoted to me, by the force of the philtre.
I can't let her be fettered, she who loves life so much. I
will speak to Storm Silverhand tomorrow, but tonight we will
celebrate.
4th Eleasis
Miior seems slightly more withdrawn today. When I asked
her about what death felt like, she said that she couldn't
remember anything. I told her that we are going to see Storm
Silverhand about the spellbooks that I recovered from the
library of Asflag, which is true. I didn't tell her about the
dispelling of the philtre, although she is now powerful
enough to cast such a spell. I will write more tonight. I am
almost as nervous about this as when the priest was casting
the spell. Of what use is it that she is returned to life if
I never see her again? How would I feel if I was enspelled in
such a manner? I don't know, but I do know that I love her. I
will tell her later how I feel.
My worst nightmare has come true. Miior was shocked to
learn that she had been enspelled in such a manner. Storm is
talking to her now, but I don't hold much hope. I don't even
feel like performing, at least the farmers in the inn are
respectful of my wishes. Tomorrow I will travel to Waterdeep.
No one will find me there.
6th Eleasis
Yesterday, as I saddled up my horse this morning, Miior
appeared around the stable. I think that she was waiting for
me. I turned away, not wanting to see her as prepared to ride
off, when she kissed me, passionately. I was shocked, and I
turned to her to find her smiling at me. She gave me a tongue
lashing that I will never forget, but forgave me. We didn't
leave until this morning.
Storm also looked at the books we found, and opened up
the spellbooks which I had. One of them was trapped three
times. We left the other books at her place, on the agreement
that we could look at them later.
7th Eleasis
While Tyrmora was with me on my journey here, she must
have turned her face from me on the way back. First we
encountered a group of undead, against which our spells were
almost useless. Then a group of rocks by the side of the road
animated and started walking toward the undead. We left them
to their battle.
Then the worst part happened. In the evening, as we
prepared our food, a large dragon swooped down and tore into
my horse! We leapt to our feet and began casting spells.
Before we even had a chance to finish, it ripped it's very
large talon's into Miior's horse! We threw streams of
coloured light at it, but as I suspected the dragon shrugged
off such weak spells. As it flew away we threw several more
spells at it, but it resisted every one of them. I could
swear it was smiling too! I'm going to find that dragon
later, and teach it a lesson for eating our horses. Luckily
it is not far to Tilverton from here.
8th Eleasis
We arrived back in Tilverton. The party wasn't very
happy with me about taking the stuff, but I told them to go
jump into the Abyss. They eventually came around, mainly
because they didn't have much choice in the matter. I gave
the glass ball to Miior, and she said that it a crystal ball,
used for scrying on distant things. The silver ring
I found also allows the werer to go invisible, I
will take that! Nightshade and myself began identifying
magical items from the tower. One of them is a magical deck
of cards which has random effects.
Unfortunately in our absence Barak was killed in the
tower by small sparkling creatures which burned him. He
climbed down into a well full of the creatures, and they
zapped him to death. His death was most untimely, but in
accordance with his wishes we will not attempt to bring him
back. Just as well really, for there is no way we could
afford it.
The party also met two other people while we were gone,
a dwarf named Stormgrim and an elven maiden called Lwaxana.
The dwarf was in the town to help do repairs on the town
hall, and agreed to join the party to help clear the tower in
our absence. The elven woman, for she is hardly a maiden, was
rescued by the party from a man attempting to ravish her in
an alley. She seems to revel in flaunting her beauty, which
is considerable. Miior seemed worried for a moment, until I
told her that she was my one and only. It seems Lwaxana will
be travelling with us for a while. Stormgrim has already
left.
9th Eleasis
Today we will draw from the deck. May Milil aid me!
15th Eleasis
Obviously Milil wasn't listening. When I drew a card
from the deck, I disappeared and reappeared in a big desert,
obviously Anauroch. I had no equipment, and I was tied up. A
group of desert warriors held me captive, while they
discussed what to do with me in a language I couldn't
understand. Eventually they came to a conclusion which
involved leaving where I was and moving on. Luckily they
untied me first. They let me have my spellbooks, I get the
impression they just wanted to get rid of them.
I followed them, watching from a distance. They joined
up with what looked like the rest of their tribe and
continued on. I couldn't find food or water in such a barren
place, and they had taken all my equipment. I was helpless.
That night I was facing a very bleak situation when a
woman appeared, walking up to me. I could see her from a
distance, using my night sight, and see was carrying a sack.
When she arrived, the woman gave me the sack and introduced
herself as Yamara. She said that she saw my spellbooks, and
realized I was a mage, and that mages are banned in the
tribes of the Bedine. However, she also could use magic, and
was a "witch". In the sack was food, water and a curved
dagger she called a jambiya. After a while she left, but told
me to follow the tribe, as they would be passing a town in a
few days, and I could seek help there. Seeking help when they
had all my money could be difficult, but at least I could
sing for my supper.
The next few days passed pretty uneventfully, with
Yamara occasionally coming out and giving me food and water.
I tried to get my spellbooks, but Yamara said that I would
need to get into the sheikh's tent, which was heavily
guarded. I had spells which would allow me to look like a
Bedine warrior, but the language was a serious problem. It
seems the witches of the desert don't use spellbooks, but
instead write their spells on paper on the inside of their
clothes. Strange people, these.
After a few days, Yamara told me that we were the
closest we would ever get to the town, called Tel Badir. She
gave me some more food and water, before I set off the walk
to the town. I arrived the next day, and immediately looked
for an inn. I could use my fine singing voice to obtain free
lodging, a trick I had done often in our travels. At the
Sand Lion Inn was the party, minus Yarrem and Lwaxana. After
a joyful reunion with Miior, I found that Yarrem had received
a vision of a flying horse in the nearby mountains, and had
set off to seek it.
Miior told me that they encountered a group of bandits
who tried to ambush them, and a large and curious Brass
Dragon. It flew over them before continuing, but Miior said
that it was magnificent. I wish I had been there to see it.
Later today me found Lwaxana, who was being dragged
along by a small dwarvish creature, as a slave. While Miior
engaged the guy in conversation, I cut her rope and attempted
to sneak away. The guy spotted us, and attcked me to get his
"slave" back. The others helped, and the creature was
defeated.
There appears to be many of these creatures around, they
may be a degenerate sub-race of dwarves. The locals call them
D'tarig.
16th Eleasis
Yarrem returns today, having tried to find the object of
his vision, but with little luck. Today we also uncovered
something that I wish we hadn't. It seems the Zhentarim
control this town, and do so with an iron fist. We were
almost run over by a patrol of them returning. We have
decided to make life rather uncomfortable for them, in the
hope that they will leave or the locals will rise up against
them.
17th Eleasis
We rest and prepare this day, I played at the inn to a
lackluster crowd. As we are obviously foreigners, I will use
my performances as an alibi for our activities.
I spoke to Yarrem about the tribe of Bedine that have my
equipment, and he said that he would go and buy it back. The
metal items are likely to be expensive, but they will not
know they are magical so they will sell for a fraction of
their true worth.
Yarrem also tells me that he is not a full Bedine, hence
his use of the two-handed sword, and his acceptance of magic.
Indeed, he is the son of a Bedine witch and is curious about
the workings of magic. From what I understand, his father was
visiting the Bedine when he sired him on the witch. She
raised him, and then brought him back to his father. He
wasn't very clear on this point, but I think that his father
would not accept him. I think that he was then raised by
somebody else, perhaps a foster father.
18th Eleasis
Yarrem left today to find the tribe and to buy my stuff
back.
Swiftbeat and I ambushed a Zhentilar mage. Swiftbeat
peppered him with arrows while I threw spells. I then quickly
slipped back to my performance. Miior was dancing while this
occured, an event sure to attract all attention to her.
Nobody will notice that I am gone.
19th Eleasis
Swiftbeat and myself repeat last night's trick and
ambush a patrol. We slay three of them, but the others
escape.
During the day, Miior asks me to make up a song for her
to dance to. She uses her singing voice to further enthrall
any people watching. I noted with amusement that while we
ambushed the patrol several Zhentarim soldiers watched
Miior's dancing at the inn.
20th Eleasis
Tonight Swiftbeat and I attacked a Zhentilar group of
mages. We slayed one, but the others put up some kind of
protection against spells and missiles, and so we left. One
of them threw a lightning bolt from a wand at us, but we had
already made our escape.
21st Eleasis
I suggested breaking into the building housing the
Zhentilar. I could use spells to look like a Zhentarim
soldier and sneak in. The other thought that was a bad idea,
because they might have protections gainst that magic.
Spoilsports.
22nd Eleasis
Yarrem returned today, with my equipment. He told me
about Yamara, and how she asked him to return in one year to
save her from the marriage that would be arranged for her,
the daughter of a shiekh. He agreed. Of course the only way
to rescue her with honor will be to marry her...
23rd Eleasis
We left Tel Badir this morning, and I wasn't sorry.
The crowd was drunken and the tips were bad. We are on our way
to the meeting place of the Bedine, which is some kind of
holy place for the Bedine.
Nightshade was being obxious again today. I spoke to
Yarrem about it, and he doesn't appear too bothered by
Nightshades lack of morals. Strange for a paladin. I think
that Yarrem's feelings are geeting in the way of his code as
a paladin.
9th Eleint
This afternoon we fought two creatures that looked like
snakes with the heads of women. They attempted to slay us,
but we fought them off and then tracked them to their lair.
Inside was a scroll, I will read it in a moment and find out
that it is.
The scroll has a curse,
and I must speak in verse,
It is so bad,
it makes me mad,
I want to shout,
but all I can do is pout,
Miior will help,
so I don't yelp.
[Handwriting changes]
Alvy at the moment is looking rather frustrated, I don't know
what he wants me to write about. He's gesturing at the rocky
pile containing the dead snake women, so I assume that he
wants me to write about the scroll. Yes, he is noding his
head. Well he unrolled the scroll, and then put it back into
the scroll case and threw it far away. He was obviously not
happy. When I asked what was wrong, he came up with the above
rhyme. Now I can write what I really think of it... ok! I
won't! We can't remove the curse at the moment, neither
Nightshade or myself is powerful enough to cast such a spell.
Unfortunately we have no cleric at the moment either. I will
write in his diary what I think he wants me to write. The
others are amused. Unfortunately, Alvy can't cast spells now
either, as the pronouciations of magic are generally not
ryhming. That could be a problem, as without the added power
we will be at a disadvantage.
5th Eleint
We arrived today at the oasis of El Ma'ra. Alvy scouted
ahead, but when he returned he had some difficulty in
explaining what he saw to the rest of us, eventually just
motioning us on. At the oasis we saw a spire of rock, Yarrem
says that it is used as a look out. Nearby was a human man, a
cleric judging by his holy symbol and choice of weapon, the
flail. He introduced himself as Kendrick, and said that his
party were killed here while he was away, by who he has no
idea. I suspect the Zhentarim, they would want to stop any
parties of adventurers in Anauroch discovering their plans.
He will travel with us, but then he dosen't have a big
choice. Unfortunately he is not powerful enough to remove
Alvy's curse either.
6th Eleint
Today we saw a sight that I will never forget. We
spotted the tents of a tribe of Bedine, and Yarrem rode up to
greet them. We followed at a distance, to see Yarrem ride
back out to us. He gestured for us to follow, and we did so,
to discover a field of the dead. All the Bedine of the tribe
were dead, man woman and child. Many of the men died from
magic, but the Bedine have banned the use of magic, believing
that it calls the wrath of the gods onto them. We will bury
the bodies then decide what to do.
As I write Yarrem is talking to what appears to be the
only survivor, a Bedine witch called Shiluan. She is a highly
skilled mage who knows several spells of which I have never
heard of. I will talk to her later and get copies for ALvy
and myself. Nightshade will do the same of course.
Shiluan said that a group of black robed men came and
killed the tribe, using magic as we suspected. Zhentarim. In
the centre of the oasis pool lies a scimitar, floating above
the water. Alvy swum out to have a look, and then Nightshade
pulled a boat out of his pocket. I would like to know how he
did that. Anyway, we retrieved the scimitar. Alvy examined
it, but was unable to determine anything about it. Kendrick
prayed and the item glowed very brightly, so it is magical. I
will identify
it later.
It is now later and I am feeling very tired from
attempting to identify the object and others we have
collected. I am certain the spell succeeded on the scimitar,
but I received no information. Shiluan knows nothing of it,
except that it has always hung there, with no Bedine daring
to touch it. Swiftbeat will wield it for a time, in the hope
that will demonstrate some of it's powers.
7th Eleint
Tomorrow we will arrive at the oasis of coloured waters.
I hope that Alvy's curse is removed soon, it is obviously
wearing on him not to be able to speak freely.
8th Eleint
Today was interesting. We met with a Bedine tribe
(Yarrem did say which one, can't remember). Unfortunately
there was also a force of Zhentarim camped nearby. They are
speaking to the Bedine tribe with words of poisoned honey. If
they do not agree, the Zhentarim will destroy them as they
destroyed the othe tribe. I hope the tribal shiekh will
listen to Yarrem.
The last update point
Glenn
Butcher / knight