New Frontiers #104

[GM Mad]

New Frontiers #104

The battle seems to be over. Riders from Elcadan have met with the Duke’s Procession. Argent and Jallarzi drove away one of the demonic Deville sisters, while the other vanished from the carriage with Validar.

Priests of many faiths are among the riders, including followers of Heironeous, Helm, and Mortidus. Known individuals include Crysania and Warton of Heironeous, Galfrey Kaarne of Mystra, and Elspeth of Azrella.

"Good to see you again," Acerion says to Warton, bowing his head respectfully to the High Priest. "You ride with fine company this day."

“As do you, Brother Acerion!” Warton answers, raising his battle-axe overhead. “It seems that change has finally come to Elcadan and not a moment too soon. To have one of our own be so instrumental in this event makes all of our faith proud!”

To Crysania the paladin says, "Hello once again Crysania. I take it that things went well given such a large reception arriving here?"

“Well met, Brother Acerion,” Crysania answers with a nod. “The true guise of the Duchess of Elcadan was revealed in public. Most believe her to have been a demoness in disguise. Some choose to believe this to be a trick, but our priestly orders, along with those of Mystra, Azrella, Helm, and Mortidus have verified that this is true. For perhaps the first time in a generation, there seems to be hope in Elcadan.”


Inside what remains of the carriage, Lyonessa and her sister Myveria are relieved to find that the acid is gone. Lyonessa moves to heal Squire Moonshadow. She converts a spell into a cure and the young squire’s wounds are repaired. Much of the damage done is healed.

“You have my heartfelt thanks, milady,” Squire Moonshadow responds. “I am pleased that both you and your sister were unharmed. If you will excuse me, I must see to Sir Corley.”

Moonshadow will then ride off to check upon his master. Much to his surprise, Sir Corley and his mount were transformed into stone during the battle!

Nearby, the Squires of Baron Validar try to bring Havok under control, but are struggling to control the seemingly insane steed.


While all that is going on, Regnak calls out that the Blackhawk seems to be crashing! The ship is moving closer to the ground, but it is also slowing as it advances. It soon becomes clear that the vessel is under someone’s control and that is simply moving closer to the land. Due to the shape of the ship’s hull, the Blackhawk cannot set down on land, but rather requires water to safely land. Instead it hovers a few feet above the ground.

[GM Mad]

Up on the deck of the Blackhawk, Sherra just took out the enemy mage, while Serena used a Hold Person to stop the Captain. Serena then takes over the ship by taking control of the Spell Engine powering it. Sherra moves into the lower decks of the ship.

The lower decks of the Blackhawk are divided into several regions. The middle is the hold, which in this case was converted into slave cells. A common ship's crew bunkroom occupies the front of the lower deck. In the rear, there is the galley, small private quarters and the larger captain’s quarters.

The smell of sulfur fills the air as Sherra moves closer. She spots Validar lying on the floor inside one of the cells. He doesn’t appear to be breathing, but it’s hard to tell with the armor he wears. His weapon lies just outside the cell.

No traps seem to be present and the cell door doesn’t offer Sherra much of a challenge. She’s down beside Validar and is shocked to find that his body is lifeless! Rushing to the deck of the Blackhawk, Sherra informs Serena of this. The Inquisitor brings the Blackhawk down, causing it to hover a few feet above the ground. Once that task is done, Serena follows Sherra down to the cargo hold.

The Inquisitor determines the truth of what Sherra feared. Baron Validar is dead!

But as the two start to leave, a sudden gasp of air is heard! Looking back, they can see that Validar is starting to breath once more!


Those on the ground watch as the Blackhawk gets closer and finally slows to a stop. It hovers just above the ground, but there doesn’t seem to be any activity up there. Finally, Serena appears and calls down to those below.

“I may have just witnessed a miracle,” the Inquisitor calls out. “A few moments ago, Baron Validar was lifeless; now he’s breathing again. He’s near death, where he was actually dead a short time ago.”

That brings a chuckle from one of the other followers of Heironeous present. It’s a short and portly fellow.

“Ho, ho, ho,” the large man chuckles. “It might be a miracle if it involved any other man! If it’s the Validar I knew, it’s probably just plain old determination! He’s done this before. Give him time and he’ll be as good as new.”

Realizing that he has the eyes and ears of many of those present, the priest adds, “Hail to you all. I am Cereld of Heironeous. At one time I led the Seekers, of which Validar was also a member. He died during our first mission into the Frontier Lands and mysteriously returned from the dead before. This isn’t anything new to him.”

[GM Mad]

Jallarzi quickly updates everyone regarding the situation in Elcadan. “The average person in Elcadan now knows that the former Duchess of Elcadan was actually a demoness in disguise. The Duke’s Guard refused to believe this and is currently holed up in the Duke’s Castle. It wouldn’t surprise me that the leaders of the guard were under the demoness’ control, so they won’t believe anything we tell them. Right now, security of the city is in the hands of the Free Guard, aided by Helm and Heironeous priesthoods. The situation is understandably tense.”

“If you wish, Your Grace, we can transport you and the others back to Elcadan on the Blackhawk. I believe that Serena would be able to pilot the ship. We can have you back there in under a matter of minutes.”

When alerted to the stoned condition of Sir Corley, Jallarzi will say, “We need to bring him along. I have spells that will restore him to flesh, but they are not in memory at the moment. His restoration will have to wait until tomorrow. But, we should load him on board the Blackhawk, just the same.”

Jallarzi will cast Levitate on the stone statue. It’s not enough to cause the knight and his steed to float, but it does lighten the load somewhat. It’ll still be a chore to raise the statue up high enough so that it can be set down on the Blackhawk. This work will take over an hour to place the statue on the deck and secure it from falling.


All during this time, Validar continues to heal. He soon regains consciousness.


Ivy exchanges words with Elspeth, the Azrellan that she grew up with. The two are almost like sisters.

“It is good to see you again, Ivy”, Elspeth says. “I have a message for you from Mother Boelle. She wishes to see you as soon as possible. She has been in poor health these last few days. We fear that her time among us is near its end.”


Elsewhere, Cereld of Heironeous notes the four zombies Ivy destroyed earlier. To his shock, they resemble other former members of the Seekers! He rushes to their side. Falling to his knees, the portly priest cradles the lifeless body of the elf maiden close to him.

“Oh, Dal,” he says, while weeping. “My Dal…”

“These people were known to you in life?” Crysania can’t help but ask.

“They were comrades from my time with the Seekers, Sister Crysania,” Cereld answers. “Dear companions and a strong force for good in these troubled times.”

“I see,” Crysania answers. After a moment’s thought she adds, “And it is possible that they might be again. They may have been undead before, but when Ivy destroyed them, they fell back into true death once more. Therefore, a Raise Dead will restore them to life once again.”

“I thought such magic didn’t work on elves?” Cereld asks, looking up hopefully.

“You are correct, Cereld, it does not. But Resurrection will. I have access to both spells and am willing to cast them as long as their spirits are willing to return. Let us bring the bodies with us back to Elcadan. Then we will have to find someone who can Speak with Dead to get their permission for me to use my magic.”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Validar wears a Ring of Regeneration. It’ll restore life even to the lifeless as long as it is worn before the damage was done. So Validar’s return was just a matter of time.

Current Hit Points:

Validar: 1 of 88


Now what?

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Inside what remains of the carriage, Lyonessa and her sister Myveria are relieved to find that the acid is gone. Lyonessa moves to heal Squire Moonshadow. She converts a spell into a cure and the young squire’s wounds are repaired. Much of the damage done is healed.

“You have my heartfelt thanks, milady,” Squire Moonshadow responds. “I am pleased that both you and your sister were unharmed. If you will excuse me, I must see to Sir Corley.”

"I am glad you are now okay, Moonshadow," Lyonessa replies, thankful that her spell was powerful enough to mostly heal the squire. "Of course," she says when Moonshadow excuses himself.

Lyonessa will notice the flying ship for the first time and stare at it in awe. "Have you ever seen such a thing?" she will ask of her sister.

“Has anyone seen Validar? The last I saw of him he was headed for the carriage as my Fireball lit up the sky.”

"He arrived at the carriage to dispatch Wendy," Lyonessa tells Chareos, concern growing in her words. "She said something about 'that Validar would have to do' and they both disappeared after that."

[Chareos]

Chareos

"I have not, Chareos," Acerion replies. "I lost track of him during the battle. It is not like him to be missing however."

"He arrived at the carriage to dispatch Wendy," Lyonessa tells Chareos, concern growing in her words. "She said something about that Validar would have to do and they both disappeared after that."

Charoes looks about the dead as the grim thought echos in his head: ‘Captured or worse.’ “Did the same not also happen to Yusef?” he asks.

“I may have just witnessed a miracle,” the Inquisitor calls out. “A few moments ago, Baron Validar was lifeless; now he’s breathing again. He’s near death, where he was actually dead a short time ago.”

Chareos listens with bated breath as the miracle is explained. Charoes’ brow furls in confusion. “No spell was cast?” he asks curiously

“Ho, ho, ho,” the large man chuckles. “It might be a miracle if it involved any other man! If it’s the Validar I knew, it’s probably just plain old determination! He’s done this before. Give him time and he’ll be as good as new.”

Realizing that he has the eyes and ears of many of those present, the priest adds, “Hail to you all. I am Cereld of Heironeous. At one time I led the Seekers, of which Validar was also a member. He died during our first mission into the Frontier Lands and mysteriously returned from the dead before. This isn’t anything new to him.”

Chareos eyes the man for many moments wondering about the validity of his words. If he didn’t know better, he would call the man a liar. But regeneration is not unheard of among trolls; and other beasts have such capabilities, even the ring about his finger grants such power given the circumstance. “Well met, Cereld of Heironeous, you bring good tidings it seems.”

When alerted to the stoned condition of Sir Corley, Jallarzi will say, “We need to bring him along. I have spells that will restore him to flesh, but they are not in memory at the moment. His restoration will have to wait until tomorrow. But, we should load him on board the Blackhawk, just the same.”

As Jallarzi casts her spell to levitate the statue of Sir Corley, Chareos will help load him to the ship when the time comes.

“How does such a thing fly? Magics of course but would it not sink from the sky as a Fly spell would?" He asks as he begins maneuvering the stone block of Sir Corley.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Validar finds himself face-to-face with his enemy and they have each other in a precarious position. Personal safety does not enter into the thoughts of the baron as he realizes that he can put a brief end to this hag's rampages upon their lands. He knows that he cannot kill her on the Prime plane, but she can be driven away for a time.

Deciding that the opportunity is too great and trusting in his own strength and the support of the magick items he has acquired, Validar does not take the safe action. He could let her go, slip away and then likely break through the bars with his magickally enhanced strength. Anger in his voice, he rips his sword from the Deville's abdomen and thrusts it up into her jaw.

Unfortunately, she gets a magick Word out at the same time and Validar is hit with a rush of pain and weakness all at once. As his eyes unfocus and blackness threatens to overcome him, he sees that he was successful. The Warblade extracts its vicious toll on the hag's head. A moment later the body vanishes and his failing senses are assaulted by brimstone and sulphur. He falls as blackness consumes him.





Validar stirs and raises himself up groggily. His helmet has been removed and sits next to him. His Warblade lays a short distance away. He is weak, as though from a terrible battle, but he feels no direct wounds upon his body. The hay that he lies in shows no blood.

He feels a sense of satisfaction knowing that the Deville hag was dispatched by him and he remains among the living. Not sure which of his magic items protected him, the Regeneration Ring or the Protection Scarab or even the resistance to magicks that was bestowed to him by Heironeous. It matters not as life still courses through his veins.

The door to the cell is open and along with his removed helm, indicates that someone checked upon him at some point recently. The noble warrior has no idea how long he has been out. Apparently a short time at the least. Then he remembers that the battle could still be brewing. Loud sounds, above on the deck of this ship, catch his ear. He quickly replaces his helm and grabs the Warblade, heading for the deck.

Coming up, he sees a bit of activity. The stone statute of Sir Corley, his friend actually turned to stone, is being secured to the deck by Pyrisian soldiers and others. There appears to large numbers of representatives of several clerical orders working and Validar catches sight of the Guardians as well as some others: Jallarzi, Argent and Serena.

Validar will welcome them and get updated on what happened here. He will also relate that he banished the Deville hag that he fought as well. "So it seems we are down to one of the sisters causing direct trouble for the time being. At some point we must determine the means to end their interference permanently."

Validar will thank the mages for their assistance in the battle. Too many of their men were killed already. He inquires as to the whereabouts of his betrothed, the lovely Lady Gabriella Allonica, and is pleased to hear that other than Sir Corley's predicament, they managed to survive this ambush in relative health.

Validar learns that his steed, Havok the warhorse, has been affected by the foul magicks of the hag. His squires, Sara and Flint, have been unsuccessful in controlling or calming the mad beast. Validar asks if anything can be done to restore his mount.

Validar learns that others from Elcadan have arrived, including Priestess Elspeth and Warton of Heironeous. Validar greets them and Crysania as well. He is quite surprised however to see another priest of Heironeous present: his old friend from the Seekers, Cereld!

"I had wondered where you had gotten off to, these past months. We have not set eyes upon each other since the Siege of Gateway. It is good to know that you are still among us!" Validar will greet the man with a warm handshake and a powerful pat upon the shoulder.

Validar soon learns that they are headed to Elcadan and he will touch base with the Duke to see what his instructions are at this point.

[Argent]

Argent:

“Hi,” he says looking up at the floating Argent. “Always, my love.” he says meeting her gaze and smiling. “In fact, I was thinking about you just moments before you arrived!”

“Ah, that’s sweet!” Argent answers. She’ll fly down and hug Chareos and share a brief kiss. “I’ll feel better once we reach Elcadan. Life on the road can get tedious at times.”


As the ship gets closer to the ground, Argent flies up to see what is going on. Serena is standing in front of what looks like a furnace but what Argent assumes to be one of these Spell Engines. Sherra comes up from below and then both she and Serena go down there. Argent isn’t sure what is going on, but it has nothing to do with her.

Flying back towards the ground, Argent informs those below that everything seems to be under control.

Those on the ground watch as the Blackhawk gets closer and finally slows to a stop. It hovers just above the ground, but there doesn’t seem to be any activity up there. Finally, Serena appears and calls down to those below.

“I may have just witnessed a miracle,” the Inquisitor calls out. “A few moments ago, Baron Validar was lifeless; now he’s breathing again. He’s near death, where he was actually dead a short time ago.”

That brings a chuckle from one of the other followers of Heironeous present. It’s a short and portly fellow.

“Ho, ho, ho,” the large man chuckles. “It might be a miracle if it involved any other man! If it’s the Validar I knew, it’s probably just plain old determination! He’s done this before. Give him time and he’ll be as good as new.”

Realizing that he has the eyes and ears of many of those present, the priest adds, “Hail to you all. I am Cereld of Heironeous. At one time I led the Seekers, of which Validar was also a member. He died during our first mission into the Frontier Lands and mysteriously returned from the dead before. This isn’t anything new to him.”

The name is vaguely familiar to Argent and he when mentions the Seekers it all falls into place. Argent heard the name during those few days when her old adventuring group merged with the Seekers. Argent decided to not go along with them and their quest due to that insufferable elf. It really doesn’t matter now; it’s ancient history to her.

Landing on the deck of the Blackhawk, Argent will ask Serena, “How does this thing work?”

[Crysania]

Crysania:

The battle has ended, although Crysania secretly wishes she had the chance to sink her axe into one of these demonesses. The task now is to safely take the new Duke to Elcadan.

It seems that Baron Validar was killed, but somehow survived. One of the other followers of Heironeous, Cereld by name, reveals that this isn’t the first time this has happened. It seems that greater powers are looking out for the Baron.

Not long after that, the same priest is found mourning several dead bodies.

“These people were known to you in life?” Crysania can’t help but ask.

“They were comrades from my time with the Seekers, Sister Crysania,” Cereld answers. “Dear companions and a strong force for good in these troubled times.”

“I see,” Crysania answers. After a moment’s thought she adds, “And it is possible that they might be again. They may have been undead before, but when Ivy destroyed them, they fell back into true death once more. Therefore, a Raise Dead will restore them to life once again.”

“I thought such magic didn’t work on elves?” Cereld asks, looking up hopefully.

“You are correct, Cereld, it does not. But Resurrection will. I have access to both spells and am willing to cast them as long as their spirits are willing to return. Let us bring the bodies with us back to Elcadan. Then we will have to Speak with Dead to get their permission for me to use my magic. I will not force a spirit to return that does not wish to.”

Crysania will see that several of the lesser priests are assigned the tasks of retrieving the bodies for transport to Elcadan. Honorable men and women are still needed in these times.


Later on the deck of the Blackhawk, Crysania catches up with Baron Validar.

“Well met, Baron. It seems that you’ve once more cheated the reaper of his prize. As for your mount, a Heal should restore him to normal. In fact, I can do that right now. Such a fate is unworthy of such a fine war steed.”

[Ivy]

Ivy:

Ivy can’t help but watch as the ship draws ominiously closer and closer. But it does slow and does not impact with the ground. Serena appears over the railing.

“I may have just witnessed a miracle,” the Inquisitor calls out. “A few moments ago, Baron Validar was lifeless; now he’s breathing again. He’s near death, where he was actually dead a short time ago.”

“Validar does heal rapidly,” Ivy remarks. “I have witnessed it myself in the past. But to restore life from lifelessness IS a miracle!”

That brings a chuckle from one of the other followers of Heironeous present. It’s a short and portly fellow.

“Ho, ho, ho,” the large man chuckles. “It might be a miracle if it involved any other man! If it’s the Validar I knew, it’s probably just plain old determination! He’s done this before. Give him time and he’ll be as good as new.”

Realizing that he has the eyes and ears of many of those present, the priest adds, “Hail to you all. I am Cereld of Heironeous. At one time I led the Seekers, of which Validar was also a member. He died during our first mission into the Frontier Lands and mysteriously returned from the dead before. This isn’t anything new to him.”

Ivy can’t help but think this portly priest is a bit touched in the head, but it turns out that he is correct and Validar is among the living once more.

Ivy exchanges words with Elspeth, the Azrellan that she grew up with. The two are almost like sisters.

“It is good to see you again, Ivy”, Elspeth says. “I have a message for you from Mother Boelle. She wishes to see you as soon as possible. She has been in poor health these last few days. We fear that her time among us is near its end.”

“Mother Boelle is in ill health?” Ivy can’t help but repeat in shock. Boelle has been in charge of the congregation in Elcadan since… well ever since Ivy has been there. While never knowing her real mother, Boelle was the closest thing that Ivy ever had. “I will go to the temple as soon as we reach Elcadan, Elspeth.”


Things seem to be winding down and while Sir Acerion continues to guard the Duke, Ivy turns back to the task of destroying the zombies that turned up earlier. The bodies must be burned, so that nothing like this can ever happen again. But there are those who are also interested in those bodies.

Elsewhere, Cereld of Heironeous notes the four zombies Ivy destroyed earlier. To his shock, they resemble other former members of the Seekers! He rushes to their side. Falling to his knees, the portly priest cradles the lifeless body of the elf maiden close to him.

“Oh, Dal,” he says, while weeping. “My Dal…”

“These people were known to you in life?” Crysania can’t help but ask.

“They were comrades from my time with the Seekers, Sister Crysania,” Cereld answers. “Dear companions and a strong force for good in these troubled times.”

“I see,” Crysania answers. After a moment’s thought she adds, “And it is possible that they might be again. They may have been undead before, but when Ivy destroyed them, they fell back into true death once more. Therefore, a Raise Dead will restore them to life once again.”

“I thought such magic didn’t work on elves?” Cereld asks, looking up hopefully.

“You are correct, Cereld, it does not. But Resurrection will. I have access to both spells and am willing to cast them as long as their spirits are willing to return. Let us bring the bodies with us back to Elcadan. Then we will have to Speak with Dead to get their permission for me to use my magic. I will not force a spirit to return that does not wish to.”

“These bodies should be destroyed,” Ivy starts to say, but the look in this Cereld’s eyes makes her pause. It’s clear that the elf maiden he cradles was very special to him. It is the look of love. “Very well, if their spirits are willing to return to the living, so be it. But if they decline, then the bodies should be purified by fire. Agreed?”

“She is lovely,” Ivy will add to Cereld in regards to the elf maiden. “I take it she traveled with you and Validar in the past?”


Later, Ivy will stay close to Sir Acerion. She’s unsure if they are going to continue to ride to Elcadan, or make use of this flying ship.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Later on the deck of the Blackhawk, Crysania catches up with Baron Validar.

“Well met, Baron. It seems that you’ve once more cheated the reaper of his prize. As for your mount, a Heal should restore him to normal. In fact, I can do that right now. Such a fate is unworthy of such a fine war steed.”

"Yes, I am told that I was found lifeless in the hold. But the one sure thing is that I am here now among the living. I do not know if I cheated the reaper, I would prefer to consider it as proper contingency planning," Validar says with a slight smirk.

"As for Havok, yes, please restore him, if you are able." Validar seems to have no choice but to consent to the clerical aid. He is unwilling to allow his noble steed to remain so.


Validar will also make a point to see Sir Acerion and thank him for his protection of the Duke. "It was a difficult task and one which drew your attention away from others you could have helped. Your dedication and bravery are unsurpassed."


Validar will ask Jallarzi what is the plan regarding Sir Corley. Obviously leaving him here in this form is not an option regardless. But he knows the power that Jallarzi possesses and hopes that she has such abilities at her disposal.

[Serena]

Serena:

"Well, a most welcome surprise," Sherra says smiling, "but I could have handled that buffoon."

“Of that, I have no doubt. But my magic will only hold him for a time. A more permanent solution will be required.”


While Serena is piloting the vessel, Sherra returns and reports that Validar seems to be dead. Once the ship has been lowered to the ground, Serena commands the Spell Engine to keep it hovering while she goes with Sherra. Once in the hold, Serena bends down to examine the Baron. His helm has already been removed. There is no breathing.

“I am sorry, but you were correct. Validar is dead. Magic might be able to restore him, if we can get access to a priest with a Raise Dead spell in the next week or so. That is not an enchantment I have access to, so I cannot do this task myself.”

Standing up, Serena is starting to leave when a gasp of air is heard! Turning around, Serena is amazed to see that the formerly lifeless body is breathing again!

“By the Lady of Mysteries! It seems that I was premature in my findings. Let us see how the others are fairing.”

Those on the ground watch as the Blackhawk gets closer and finally slows to a stop. It hovers just above the ground, but there doesn’t seem to be any activity up there. Finally, Serena appears and calls down to those below.

“I may have just witnessed a miracle,” the Inquisitor calls out. “A few moments ago, Baron Validar was lifeless; now he’s breathing again. He’s near death, where he was actually dead a short time ago.”

Chareos listens with bated breath as the miracle is explained. Chareos’ brow furls in confusion. “No spell was cast?” he asks curiously.

“Not by me,” Serena answers. “I do not have access to magic that will restore life from lifelessness.”

That brings a chuckle from one of the other followers of Heironeous present. It’s a short and portly fellow.

“Ho, ho, ho,” the large man chuckles. “It might be a miracle if it involved any other man! If it’s the Validar I knew, it’s probably just plain old determination! He’s done this before. Give him time and he’ll be as good as new.”

Realizing that he has the eyes and ears of many of those present, the priest adds, “Hail to you all. I am Cereld of Heironeous. At one time I led the Seekers, of which Validar was also a member. He died during our first mission into the Frontier Lands and mysteriously returned from the dead before. This isn’t anything new to him.”

“Validar does heal rapidly,” Ivy remarks. “I have witnessed it myself in the past. But to restore life from lifelessness is a miracle!”

“Then perhaps the healing is magical in nature,” Serena surmises. “I know that a Ring of Regeneration will restore life to the one wearing it, provided they were not killed by fire or acid. Perhaps that is what has happened in this instance. That would explain how he seemingly rose from the dead twice now.”


Serena returns to her post as Engineer on the ship. Since she’s currently linked to the Engine, she controls it. The Spell Engine becomes a topic of interest to the other mages.

“How does such a thing fly? Magic of course but would it not sink from the sky as a Fly spell would?" He asks as he begins maneuvering the stone block of Sir Corley.

Landing on the deck of the Blackhawk, Argent will ask Serena, “How does this thing work?”

“A Spell Engine is a magic item itself, and each one is specifically created to do a task or series of related tasks. This one here is a rather unimpressive model. It simply propels the ship and provides a safe atmosphere for those on board.”

“The work is done by the Engine but the Engine itself is powered by spell energy. Spell energy is the fuel to the Spell Engine, much like wood is fuel for a fire. Once it’s consumed, the Engine goes out. Thus, it is necessary to keep refueling the engine. A mage needs only to touch the engine for a time to forge a mystical bond with it. That person, typically called the Engineer, can then direct the Engine and also refuel it. Spells that you are able to cast are put into the engine which then consumes them as food.”

“As for what the engine actually does, think of it in this manner: it creates a bubble around the ship. Those inside the bubble are protected from the wind and cold. The engine generates a magical wind that fills the ship’s sails and this in turn moves the ship. This wind only goes in one direction, so the sails are still needed to turn the ship. The Engineer can only move the ship up or down and control how fast or how slow it moves. As you might expect travel by this method is much, much faster than anything you can do on land or water.”


“Welcome back to the living, Baron,” Serena will say when Validar appears. "It appears that you have the Lady of Mysteries to thank for that."

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Duke Relon:

Jallarzi quickly updates everyone regarding the situation in Elcadan. "The average person in Elcadan now knows that the former Duchess of Elcadan was actually a demoness in disguise. The Duke's Guard refused to believe this and is currently holed up in the Duke's Castle. It wouldn't surprise me that the leaders of the guard were under the demoness' control, so they won't believe anything we tell them. Right now, security of the city is in the hands of the Free Guard, aided by Helm and Heironeous priesthoods. The situation is understandably tense."

“Not the best situation to walk into, but better than what it could be. We’ll proceed cautiously, dealing with one situation at a time.”

"If you wish, Your Grace, we can transport you and the others back to Elcadan on the Blackhawk. I believe that Serena would be able to pilot the ship. We can have you back there in under a matter of minutes."

“Perhaps that would be for the best,” the new Duke answers. “But I do not wish to arrive in Elcadan in such a fashion. Let’s us retire to your estate for the evening and then in the morning we will ride into Elcadan. But first we must honor those who fell in the battle. They were good men and deserve nothing less than our full gratitude.”

The Duke will then take the time to speak to the various representatives of the major faiths in Elcadan to gain their insights and what they think needs to be done in the city. The current Council of Elcadan will need to be disbanded and the Duke is not naïve enough to think that the merchants who now sit on it will take this lightly. A new council will be needed, comprised of members from various walks of life, not just the rich.

Validar soon learns that they are headed to Elcadan and he will touch base with the Duke to see what his instructions are at this point.

“We will be retiring to the Sallavarian Estate for the evening. Tomorrow morning, we will ride into Elcadan as expected. I feel that your mother should be at my side for this event, so we shall meet up with her at the estate.”

“The matter of the Old Guard will need to be resolved and the former Duke’s castle will need exploration. Who knows what sort of horrors these witches left behind? The events of the next few weeks will be a great trial to us all.”


Jallarzi:

“Not the best situation to walk into, but better than what it could be. We’ll proceed cautiously, dealing with one situation at a time.”

“Of course, Your Grace. You’ll have my council on what goes on in Elcadan. There is much work to be done.”

“Perhaps that would be for the best,” the new Duke answers. “But I do not wish to arrive in Elcadan in such a fashion. Let’s us retire to your estate for the evening and then in the morning we will ride into Elcadan. But first we must honor those who fell in the battle. They were good men and deserve nothing less than our full gratitude.”

“A wise decision,” Jallarzi agrees. “No need to demonstrate that we’ve secured the services of a flying ship at this time. There is a place where water is funneled from the Streel to water the land near the estate. We can dock there for the night. The ship can be moved to the Duke’s dock later on.”

Validar will ask Jallarzi what is the plan regarding Sir Corley. Obviously leaving him here in this form is not an option regardless. But he knows the power that Jallarzi possesses and hopes that she has such abilities at her disposal.

“Worry not, Validar. The matter of Sir Corley’s restoration is not a difficult one. I simply do not have the necessary spell committed to memory at this time. I will have it tomorrow and then we can return the knight and his steed to flesh. In the meantime, we must take him with us and ensure that he remains intact.”


Cereld:

Chareos eyes the man for many moments wondering about the validity of his words. If he didn't know better, he would call the man a liar. But regeneration is not unheard of among trolls; and other beasts have such capabilities, even the ring about his finger grants such power given the circumstance. "Well met, Cereld of Heironeous, you bring good tidings it seems."

“And good tidings to you, sir,” Cereld answers. “I take it that you ride with Validar now?”

“These bodies should be destroyed,” Ivy starts to say, but the look in this Cereld’s eyes makes her pause. It’s clear that the elf maiden he cradles was very special to him. It is the look of love. “Very well, if their spirits are willing to return to the living, so be it. But if they decline, then the bodies should be purified by fire. Agreed?”

Cereld holds his tongue, but will reluctantly nod in agreement.

“She is lovely,” Ivy will add to Cereld in regards to the elf maiden. “I take it she traveled with you and Validar in the past?”

“That she is,” Cereld agrees. “She is Dalliance, an elf maiden who mixes spells and swordplay. We, along with Arafel and Ticat here, were among the original Seekers. That all seems like years ago, but was just last spring. I never I thought I’d see her-- any of these people—again.”

Validar learns that others from Elcadan have arrived, including Elspeth and Warton of Heironeous. Validar greets them and Crysania as well. He is quite surprised however to see another priest of Heironeous present: his old friend from the Seekers, Cereld!

"I had wondered where you had gotten off to. We have not seen each other since the Siege of Gateway. It is good to know that you are still among us!" Validar will greet the man with a warm handshake and a powerful pat upon the shoulder.

“Good to see you again, Validar,” Cereld answers. “I hear that you’ve become even more important these days! I have often wondered whatever became of our friends. Some I have found out about, but others remain a mystery. What news have you of them?”


Myveria:

Lyonessa will notice the flying ship for the first time and stare at it in awe. "Have you ever seen such a thing?" she will ask of her sister.

“No, not ever,” Myveria will say, her eyes also locked on the Blackhawk. “And I thought traveling in a carriage was fancy! But to fly like a bird…”

[Crysania]

Crysania:

“These bodies should be destroyed,” Ivy starts to say, but the look in this Cereld’s eyes makes her pause. It’s clear that the elf maiden he cradles was very special to him. It is the look of love. “Very well, if their spirits are willing to return to the living, so be it. But if they decline, then the bodies should be purified by fire. Agreed?”

“It is agreeable,” Crysania answers. “No one wants to see friends and loved ones transformed into undead.”

Later Crysania learns that the four have been dead far longer than she first suspected. “I had foolishly assumed that these four had been dead for a few days, but it now seems that it has been many months. A Raise Dead will no longer restore them. Resurrection is the only spell now capable of doing that. The task is now harder, but I will fulfill my oath to you, Cereld. If they wish to return, I will bring them back.”

"Yes, I am told that I was found lifeless in the hold. But the one sure thing is that I am here now among the living. I do not know if I cheated the reaper, I would prefer to consider it as proper contingency planning," Validar says with a slight smirk.

“I am sure that the reaper minds not. If any god has patience, it is he. All things come to him eventually. Clearly, this was not your time to pass into the afterlife.”

"As for Havok, yes, please restore him, if you are able." Validar seems to have no choice but to consent to the clerical aid. He is unwilling to allow his noble steed to remain so.

“Of course.” Crysania will expend a Heal spell to restore the warhorse to its previous state.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

“Welcome back to the living, Baron,” Serena will say when Validar appears. "It appears that you have the Lady of Mysteries to thank for that."

Validar thinks on that for a moment. "Yes, it does appear to be the case." Based on what Serena has said, and she is not one to mince words, nor to waste them, he did die from the Deville hag's magick. However, his Ring of Regeneration must have been what defied true death. It was a return from the dead for two of the lead Hextorites in the Frontier that led him to acquire this powerful bauble. "I shall have to thank her the next time I see her," he says.


"Yes, I am told that I was found lifeless in the hold. But the one sure thing is that I am here now among the living. I do not know if I cheated the reaper, I would prefer to consider it as proper contingency planning," Validar says with a slight smirk.

“I am sure that the reaper minds not. If any god has patience, it is he. All things come to him eventually. Clearly, this was not your time to pass into the afterlife.”

"Indeed. There is still much to accomplish. I prefer not to meet the reaper anytime soon, if ever, to be honest." Validar is not sure of his thoughts on the afterlife and he remembers nothing other than falling and then waking up in pain. It was a somewhat different experience then the time he was felled by Wendelaine. Ironic that the same form was the 'death of him' twice now.


"As for Havok, yes, please restore him, if you are able." Validar seems to have no choice but to consent to the clerical aid. He is unwilling to allow his noble steed to remain so.

“Of course.” Crysania will expend a Heal spell to restore the warhorse to its previous state.

"You have my undying thanks," Validar says, aware of the initially unintended pun.


Validar soon learns that they are headed to Elcadan and he will touch base with the Duke to see what his instructions are at this point.

“We will be retiring to the Sallavarian Estate for the evening. Tomorrow morning, we will ride into Elcadan as expected. I feel that your mother should be at my side for this event, so we shall meet up with her at the estate.”

“The matter of the Old Guard will need to be resolved and the former Duke’s castle will need exploration. Who knows what sort of horrors these witches left behind? The events of the next few weeks will be a great trial to us all.”

"As you command, father," Validar responds. He is happy to be off the trail for the rest of this journey and ready to deal with what they will face in Elcadan rather be subject to any more ambushes. "I am certain that the Duke's Castle will need extensive exploration and cleansing of magick and of evil influences. We will need the services of all present to complete this task and return the castle to a modicum of safety."


Validar will ask Jallarzi what is the plan regarding Sir Corley. Obviously leaving him here in this form is not an option regardless. But he knows the power that Jallarzi possesses and hopes that she has such abilities at her disposal.

“Worry not, Validar. The matter of Sir Corley’s restoration is not a difficult one. I simply do not have the necessary spell committed to memory at this time. I will have it tomorrow and then we can return the knight and his steed to flesh. In the meantime, we must take him with us and ensure that he remains intact.”

"I am pleased to hear that. Sir Corley is a fine and brave soul and we will have need of him now and in the future," Validar answers, looking at his friend transformed into unliving stone. Is his predicament much different than the one Validar found himself in just recently. Neither of them were truly alive.

Validar asks about the fallen Seekers who were used in zombie form by the hag known as Abigail Deville. He learns that the bodies were brought on board and that Crysania will attempt to Speak with Dead with their spirits to determine if they wish to return to life. Apparently, this will happen in the morning at Jallarzi's estate.

"I wish to be present at the event," Validar states. "These people were my friends and comrades at arms." Well, three of the four were at any rate, Validar thinks. He would not care if Claudius did not rejoin them. In any case he has no place in the New Seekers. Past actions have guaranteed that.

Validar also is told that they intend to purify the bodies if they do not wish to return by a funeral pyre. He will hold his tongue for the moment, but has a strong opinion in regards to that. "We will make a determination after the Speaking, based on the outcome of the conversations."


Validar learns that others from Elcadan have arrived, including Elspeth and Warton of Heironeous. Validar greets them and Crysania as well. He is quite surprised however to see another priest of Heironeous present: his old friend from the Seekers, Cereld!

"I had wondered where you had gotten off to. We have not seen each other since the Siege of Gateway. It is good to know that you are still among us!" Validar will greet the man with a warm handshake and a powerful pat upon the shoulder.

“Good to see you again, Validar,” Cereld answers. “I hear that you’ve become even more important these days! I have often wondered whatever became of our friends. Some I have found out about, but others remain a mystery. What news have you of them?”

"Some would say my importance is just beginning to line up with my self-importance, but I am truly proud to be Baron of my people of Pyris. There have been many changes in recent months with a new King and a new Duke here. Many more changes are to come."

"Several of our friends have been reuinited," Validar answers. "We seem to have a renewal of the Seekers in the works. Arocken was the first to join me. He found he had little interest in the direction the new group was going and so travelled to Pyris to join up with our new group."

"Next we were rejoined by Blod, who assisted us in the destruction of the Keln stonghold and the Hextorite Temple. While there, we found that Dar Thaltus and Araduin had been captured and were under their mental influence. Bernice was at Karn's Keep. As was Zynara. She had moved her family there to do magickal studying."

"Each of them has joined us now. Zynara in a non-adventuring role, the rest as a reborn group of Seekers. They are in Elcadan even now. The core group is nearly entirely rebuilt, except for Stephanie and Finrod and those three that we encountered here." Validar hopes that Tiger Cat, Dalliance and Arafel will add to their ranks, although he is concerned about the situation with Arafel now. It will be sticky for a short while.

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

Validar will also make a point to see Sir Acerion and thank him for his protection of the Duke. "It was a difficult task and one which drew your attention away from others you could have helped. Your dedication and bravery are unsurpassed."

"It was difficult in only that I was not able to protect more of those brave and valiant men or to add my lance and axe directly into the conflict," Acerion replies. "Today though, the field is ours, you have returned from a trip you did not wish to take, and the situation in Elcadan seems promising, so it is a good day."

Acerion will remain vigilant while the talk continues and plans are made. The paladin does not plan to lower his guard for a moment no matter how secure they seem to be at the present.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

“Of that, I have no doubt. But my magic will only hold him for a time. A more permanent solution will be required.”

"I'm sure someone will want to question the man at length," Sherra will reply simply.

Sherra feels the tears welling up in her eyes as her and Serena hunch over the still form of Validar. Serena says there is magic that can raise him, but she hardly hears the words. Suddenly Validar takes a breath!

Standing up, Serena is starting to leave when a gasp of air is heard! Turning around, Serena is amazed to see that the formerly lifeless body is breathing again!

“By the Lady of Mysteries! It seems that I was premature in my findings. Let us see how the others are fairing.”

Once Validar is more coherent and Sherra is certain she isn't hallucinating, she cuffs him lightly on his armored shoulder. "Don't DO that!," she exclaims, quickly adding, "Baron."

Once she settles down a bit more, Sherra will add, "Cutting it a bit close that time, don't you think? I am glad that you're still here though. I'm sure we all are."

Sherra will emerge from the ship with Serena and Validar, and it's a flurry of activity. She stays mostly out of the way, but does listen in as Serena explains how the ship can fly. It dashes her thoughts of being able to acquire such a ship herself unless she somehow managed to grasp a better understanding of magic and how to use it.

Without much else to do, Sherra will assist anywhere she's needed and wait to hear what the next step is. It seems as though they will be camping and arrive in Elcadan tomorrow, so she will make time to explore the rest of the ship to see if anything else remains unfound.

[Xander Churr]

Regnak

Priests of many faiths are among the riders, including followers of Heironeous, Helm, and Mortidus. Known individuals include Crysania and Warton of Heironeous, Galfrey Kaarne of Mystra, and Elspeth of Azrella.

Looking at the incoming column curiously he spots the familiar symbol of the main following of Mystra. His eyes scan up to the face and it's familiar though he pays it no mind. Nor would he pay respect to him. In his own eyes one worships Mystra in their own way.

Regnak will move to his horse and mount up and keep a watchful eye.

[Chareos]

Chareos

Forgot about this….

Approaching Argent, “My dear, Would you still posses the spell book that Sharadin entrusted to you? I recently had an epiphany on a spell, Chaos and wish to see if I could understand any more spells that are held within.”

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

(Some changes made to previous post due to Sherra being present when Validar awakens.)

Validar stirs and raises himself up groggily. His helmet has been removed and sits next to him. His Warblade lays a short distance away. He is weak, as though from a terrible battle, but he feels no direct wounds upon his body. The hay that he lies in shows no blood.

Suddenly he is aware of a presence.

Once Validar is more coherent and Sherra is certain she isn't hallucinating, she cuffs him lightly on his armored shoulder. "Don't DO that!," she exclaims, quickly adding, "Baron."

He sees Sherra kneeling over him, now somewhat to his back as he sat up. He turns and sees her wipe a forming tear from her eye. "I apologize if I startled you, Sherra. Apparently, the hag felled me with her vile magicks before I could spill her body's blood and banish the Deville hag back to the hell she came from."

Once she settles down a bit more, Sherra will add, "Cutting it a bit close that time, don't you think? I am glad that you're still here though. I'm sure we all are."

"It was a calculated risk. But that hag enacted her own downfall by allowing me to remain close to her. Perhaps it may have been more prudent to allow myself to be captured and find out where the ship was headed. Or even to wait here in this cell and break free ata more opportune time. But I could not allow her evil to remain on the field," Validar explains. "Your concern is touching noetheless. And I am glad that I am still here as well. "

He feels a sense of satisfaction knowing that the Deville hag was dispatched by him and he remains among the living. Not sure which of his magic items protected him, the Regeneration Ring or the Protection Scarab or even the resistance to magicks that was bestowed to him by Heironeous. It matters not as life still courses through his veins.

The noble warrior has no idea how long he has been out. Apparently a short time at the least.

"How long have I been out? Is the battle won or are there enemies still on the battlefield?" Validar asks.

Validar will head up out of the hold and assess the situation.
-------------------------

Validar will also make a point to see Sir Acerion and thank him for his protection of the Duke. "It was a difficult task and one which drew your attention away from others you could have helped. Your dedication and bravery are unsurpassed."

"It was difficult in only that I was not able to protect more of those brave and valiant men or to add my lance and axe directly into the conflict," Acerion replies. "Today though, the field is ours, you have returned from a trip you did not wish to take, and the situation in Elcadan seems promising, so it is a good day."

"I too feel your frustration. Many of our men were felled with scarcely a chance to defend themselves. Magick controlled the day here for the enemy and we must consider what further means we can use to thwart such an ambush in the future," Validar says.

"In the end, I must agree with you, my friend. We have nearly completed the first stage of this task, to assist the new Duke in claiming Elcadan. The next part may prove even more difficult. But for now, we can enjoy our victory."

Validar notices that despite the victory and the return to a state of normalcy, Sir Acerion is still vigilant in his task, accompanying the Duke everywhere, as he was charged.

Sherra mentions that the captain of the Blackhawk has been Held by Sernea and that perhaps they might want to interrogate him. Validar will have the man disarmed, secured and transfered to the cell he was kept in. He, as well as the dead mage, will be searched for magick items, as I assume at least one of the mages present has Detect Magic available. When the Hold wears off, Validar will be present.

"The tables have been reversed. You are a prisoner of the Duke of the Streel and of myself, Baron Validar of Pyris. If you cooperate, your life may be spared. If you do not, you will be sentenced to death for your crimes."

"Your men are dead, as is the mage you employed. The Deville hag is gone, slain by by Warblade. This ship is now ours and will be reconfigured as a warship. Its days as a slaver have ended."

"I want you to tell me of your arrangements with the Devilles. who else are you working with? How many other ships like this are there? Where is your base of operations Where do you take prisoners and where were today's prisoners to be taken? Where is the Deville base of operations?"

If the man speaks, then he will turn him over to the Duke. If he is reluctant, emphasize that his life is in the balance. If he is antagonistic, then kill him and get it over with.

The ship is being flown to Jallarzi's estate once they have everything resolved. Validar is looking forward to seeing Gabriella once more.

[Chareos]

Chareos

Take 3 =D

Sherra mentions that the captain of the Blackhawk has been Held by Sernea and that perhaps they might want to interrogate him. Validar will have the man disarmed, secured and transfered to the cell he was kept in. He, as well as the dead mage, will be searched for magick items, as I assume at least one of the mages present has Detect Magic available. When the Hold wears off, Validar will be present.

Chareos will help gather the gear of the fallen, especially the mage, and place it together. He will then cast Detect Magic to see what is of a magical origin and separates those from the normal gear. He will also gather the Mage’s Spell book(if found), but hold off opening it, as it may be trapped.

When Validar has a moment, “Would the Captain’s quarters not hold maps or the likes? Perhaps it will give us an incite to where this ship has been,” he calmly states.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

If Validar sees Chareos starting to collect the gear of the fallen, he will stop him. "Hold for a moment. There may be evil items amongst them. Gather the bodies in one place and have one of the clerics Detect of Evil first, just to be certain. An evil artifact could cause harm just by touching, I have heard it said."

"Once you have determined there are no evil items, then you can proceed as you have," Validar will continue.


When Validar has a moment, “Would the Captain’s quarters not hold maps or the likes? Perhaps it will give us an incite to where this ship has been,” he calmly states.

"Most likely. I cannot say that I have had much experience with sailing vessels. I will search out Sherra as she is one who would know her way around this ship." Validar will look for Sherra and find that she has already begun the process of exploring the Blackhawk.

"Sherra, it seems that you are the most experienced in the layout, operation and workings of a sailing vessel. What have you discovered and what ca you tell about where this vessel has been and where it is going?"

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The Blackhawk has been captured and the Guardians begin to explore the ship. The human captain is bound with rope before Serena’s Hold spell wears off. He’s placed in one of his own cells so that he can be questioned.

"The tables have been reversed. You are a prisoner of the Duke of the Streel and of myself, Baron Validar of Pyris. If you cooperate, your life may be spared. If you do not, you will be sentenced to death for your crimes."

"Your men are dead, as is the mage you employed. The Deville hag is gone, slain by by Warblade. This ship is now ours and will be reconfigured as a warship. Its days as a slaver have ended."

"I want you to tell me of your arrangements with the Devilles. Who else are you working with? How many other ships like this are there? Where is your base of operations? Where do you take prisoners and where were today's prisoners to be taken? Where is the Deville base of operations?"

The man acts as if he’s trying to speak, but something seems to be preventing him from doing so.

Jallarzi will comment on the matter. “It wouldn’t surprise me if this man is under the sway of the Deville sisters. Charmed by them to be precise. He may not be capable of answering your questions even if he wanted to. I would suggest having Lyonessa speak to him and Dispelling any magic upon him. She should be able to get him to speak by using her Singer’s Harp.”


Those going on the Blackhawk are taken aboard. However, not everyone will be able to reach Jallarzi’s Estate this way. It’s impossible to bring the horses on board, as the ship is hovering above ground. So they will need to be rode the rest of the way. The Lady Rachel volunteers to lead the riders back to Elcadan.

Chareos uses Detect Magic to locate magic items from the half-elf mage. He locates a wand, a pair of anklets, and a flask from the fallen mage. He also notes that the captain’s armor, scimitar and boots are enchanted.

Down below decks, the smaller cabin was the mage’s quarters. Inside Chareos will find his spell book and some 1560 gold coins.

There is more gold in the captain’s quarters, some 8006 pieces of gold! In addition, there are many maps and charts. Some of them are recognizable to Sherra; this region and the waters to the south where she sailed before, but others she’s unsure of. Ominously, one of the charts provides the location to Oos. There is a logbook in addition to the charts, but it will take time to sort through all of this.

However, before that can be done, Sherra will be needed back up on deck. The Spell Engine only provides lift and forward thrust. The sails and rudder are still needed to turn the ship, just like it would on the water. She’s the only one with any significant sailing knowledge, so her presence is required for the sails to be properly set and to handle the helm. Men to work the rigging will also be needed.

[GM Mad]

While the preparations for departure are being made, Duke Relon and those with him speak to the various high priests present.

Sturm, the High Priest of Helm, notes that among the men with him is Kell, a Paladin of Helm. He would be honored to give Sir Acerion a break from his task of constantly guarding the new Duke.

“Another of my followers is performing the same task for the new Duchess,” Warton of Heironeous adds. “A young lady paladin by the name of Virian is with her at Lady Sallavarian’s estate. Each of our temples is enchanted due to the strength of our devotion to our patrons. Each radiates a protective field much like that of a Paladin’s. These demonesses cannot penetrate them, so we are protected, but that does not provide us with a means for their destruction.”

“That task is much more difficult,” Galfrey of Mystra notes. “Demons are not like us in the sense that they do not truly have a physical form here on the Prime Material Plane. Instead, they are a manifestation of their spirit. If their manifestation is damaged enough, then it fades and they are returned to their place of origin. Their spirit will take time to heal. In the case of great damage being done to it, the spirit might be dispersed, but unlike us mere mortals, the spirit will reform and gather itself again. It is unknown how long it will take the spirits of these demons to reform. It might be a matter of days, weeks, or months. Regardless, we will have some time before they return to trouble us.”

“But that does not solve the problem of their permanent destruction,” Warton growls angrily. “We’ve just set them back is all.”

“And that is the crux of our problem,” Galfrey continues. “A permanent solution has to be found. There are only two possibilities. The first is to travel to wherever they dwell in the Abyss and slay them there. Not the best answer, I am sure you would all agree. The second is to trap their spirits and imprison them that way. To that end, I have had my flock searching our library for anything on the imprisonment of demons. Such magic does exist, but much of it is beyond our ability to make use of. Plus you have to summon the demon in question and that requires knowing its true name, which we do not know.”

“But they did find something else that gives me hope. The old tests did speak of the Archmage Gaz working on creating a prison for such creatures. We know not if he succeeded, but there are rumors that he did manage to bind several malevolent spirits in the past. It is our hope that she who is charged with clearing the Tower of Magic will be able to confirm if this is true or not. If Gaz succeeded, then we may be able to imprison the spirits of the demonesses once and for all.”

“Unfortunately, there has been no word from Kharyna as of late, “Jallarzi adds. “I have no idea how her quest goes.”

“If such a thing does exist,” Duke Relon states, “then it is imperative that we recover it before these vile witches can return to bedevil us.”

[GM Mad]

People Comments:

Duke Relon:

"As you command, father," Validar responds. He is happy to be off the trail for the rest of this journey and ready to deal with what they will face in Elcadan rather be subject to any more ambushes. "I am certain that the Duke's Castle will need extensive exploration and cleansing of magick and of evil influences. We will need the services of all present to complete this task and return the castle to a modicum of safety."

“Much will need to be done before it can be made inhabitable for us,” the Duke agrees.


Cereld:

Later Crysania learns that the four have been dead far longer than she first suspected. “I had foolishly assumed that these four had been dead for a few days, but it now seems that it has been many months. A Raise Dead will no longer restore them. Resurrection is the only spell now capable of doing that. The task is now harder, but I will fulfill my oath to you, Cereld. If they wish to return, I will bring them back.”

“It is not your fault, Sister Crysania. I should have noted that they’ve been dead for many months now. Although, I do not know how Claudius came to be among them. He just joined up with the Seekers right before I left. Unlike the other three, he was alive when I last saw him.”

"Some would say my importance is just beginning to line up with my self-importance, but I am truly proud to be Baron of my people of Pyris. There have been many changes in recent months with a new King and a new Duke here. Many more changes are to come."

"Several of our friends have been reunited," Validar, answers. "We seem to have a renewal of the Seekers in the works. Arocken was the first to join me. He found he had little interest in the direction the new group was going and so traveled to Pyris to join up with our new group."

"Next we were rejoined by Blod, who assisted us in the destruction of the Keln stronghold and the Hextorite Temple. While there, we found that Dar Thaltus and Araduin had been captured and were under their mental influence. Bernice was at Karn's Keep. As was Zynara. She had moved her family there to do magickal studying."

"Each of them has joined us now. Zynara in a non-adventuring role, the rest as a reborn group of Seekers. They are in Elcadan even now. The core group is nearly entirely rebuilt, except for Stephanie and Finrod and those three that we encountered here." Validar hopes that Tiger Cat, Dalliance and Arafel will add to their ranks, although he is concerned about the situation with Arafel now. It will be sticky for a short while.

“It seems that I missed a great deal during my absence,” Cereld notes. “After we freed Gateway, I rode with Araduin and Dar to bring the refuges from the ruined city. While we rode, a thought did strike me. You returned to us after the affair with Wendy. Perhaps others of our band did so as well?”

“And so I rode back to Whispering Hollow. I had to know if they were returned to life. I returned to their gravesites and found that all had been disturbed. The bodies of our companions were missing! Were they restored to life or had they been the victims of grave robbers? Even worse other followers of the Herald of Hell showed, along with their goblin minions. By the time I dealt with them and returned to Gateway, the Seekers were already gone on some other quest. I prayed to Heironeous for guidance and eventually it led me here to Elcadan. It seems my faith has been rewarded.”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Okay, lot’s going on here. Who’s going on the ship and who’s going to ride back to the Salavarian Estate?

As noted in the post, sailing skill is still required to operate the Blackhawk. It won’t just fly itself! (Actually, it will, but only in a straight line!)

Validar regenerates at a rate of 1 hit point per ten minutes. It took him twenty minutes to start breathing again. (The time needed to ‘heal’ from –12 to –10 hit points, the death’s door point.) From there it would have taken another 100 minute to reach 1 hp and be conscious again. Shorter if Sherra used a healing potion mentioned earlier.

The spell book of the mage of the Blackhawk holds all the spells in the PHB for levels 1-5. In addition there are some special Sea Mage spells in it. They are as follows:

Level 1:

Feather Float (Alt) - Gives buoyancy to target.
Foul/Unfoul Rigging (Alt) - Tangles target ship's rigging.
Sea Sight (Alt) - See twice as far underwater as normal.
Vermin Ward (Abj) - Keeps small pests away from the ship, such as termites and normal rats.

Level 2:

Fire Proof (Abj) - Gives ship protection from fire.
Helmsman (Ill,Con/Sum) - Summons a phantom Helmsman, a specialized Unseen Servant.
Intruder Alarm (Abj,Inv) - Ship-wide Alarm spell.
Storm Sail (Alt) – Strengthens sails to resist tearing during storms.

Level 3:

Phantom Sail (Ill,Con) – Temporarily replaces lost or damaged sails.

Level 4:

Sargasso (Alt) - Creates an entangling patch of seaweed. A kind ocean-going Entangle.

Level 5:

Shipshock (Inv) – Variant of Shocking Grasp that is triggered when something large touches the bottom of the ship.

Now what?

[Argent]

Argent:

Approaching Argent, “My dear, Would you still posses the spell book that Sharadin entrusted to you? I recently had an epiphany on a spell, Chaos and wish to see if I could understand any more spells that are held within.”

‘How wonderful!” Argent answers. “You’ll find many interesting spells to learn in it. However, I didn’t bring it with me. It’s back at Jallarzi’s Estate. I’ll retrieve it when we arrive.”

“A Spell Engine is a magic item itself, and each one is specifically created to do a task or series of related tasks. This one here is a rather unimpressive model. It simply propels the ship and provides a safe atmosphere for those on board.”

“The work is done by the Engine but the Engine itself is powered by spell energy. Spell energy is the fuel to the Spell Engine, much like wood is fuel for a fire. Once it’s consumed, the Engine goes out. Thus, it is necessary to keep refueling the engine. A mage needs only to touch the engine for a time to forge a mystical bond with it. That person, typically called the Engineer, can then direct the Engine and also refuel it. Spells that you are able to cast are put into the engine which then consumes them as food.”

“As for what the engine actually does, think of it in this manner: it creates a bubble around the ship. Those inside the bubble are protected from the wind and cold. The engine generates a magical wind that fills the ship’s sails and this in turn moves the ship. This wind only goes in one direction, so the sails are still needed to turn the ship. The Engineer can only move the ship up or down and control how fast or how slow it moves. As you might expect travel by this method is much, much faster than anything you can do on land or water.”

Argent listens intently to Serena’s explanation. “It does seem simple enough. I take it that when this mystical bond is formed that it relays to you what the engine can do and how much fuel it holds?”


Argent has some interest in what magic items were found, but doesn’t expect to find anything too interesting. Perhaps the spell book will hold something new. Turns out that there are a few Sea Mage spells in it, not surprising for spellcaster on a ship. At a later time, Argent will attempt to learn all the spells she can from these new enchantments.

[Ivy]

Ivy:

“It is agreeable,” Crysania answers. “No one wants to see friends and loved ones transformed into undead.”

Ivy nods in response. She’s unsure just how this will work out, but is hopeful.

“That she is,” Cereld agrees. “She is Dalliance, an elf maiden who mixes spells and swordplay. We, along with Arafel and Ticat here, were among the original Seekers. That all seems like years ago, but was just last spring. I never I thought I’d see her-- any of these people—again.”

“I understand,” Ivy answers. “I pray that she is returned to you.”

"I wish to be present at the event," Validar states. "These people were my friends and comrades at arms." Well, three of the four were at any rate, Validar thinks. He would not care if Claudius did not rejoin them. In any case he has no place in the New Seekers. Past actions have guaranteed that.

Validar also is told that they intend to purify the bodies if they do not wish to return by a funeral pyre. He will hold his tongue for the moment, but has a strong opinion in regards to that. "We will make a determination after the Speaking, based on the outcome of the conversations."

“I can cast the necessary spell,” Ivy offers. “I will pray for it in the morning and assist in this task.”


There’s not much for Ivy to do while the ship is being prepared. She’ll stay close to Sir Acerion and it’ll be even more pleasant if he accepts relief. The two talk for a time.

“I must leave for a time once we arrive in Elcadan,” Ivy tells Sir Acerion. “I am told that Mother Boelle is ill and wishes to see me. I must go to her. I will return as soon as possible.”

[Serena]

Serena:

Validar thinks on that for a moment. "Yes, it does appear to be the case." Based on what Serena has said, and she is not one to mince words, nor to waste them, he did die from the Deville hag's magick. However, his Ring of Regeneration must have been what defied true death. It was a return from the dead for two of the lead Hextorites in the Frontier that led him to acquire this powerful bauble. "I shall have to thank her the next time I see her," he says.

“She already knows,” Serena answers mysteriously.

Argent listens intently to Serena’s explanation. “It does seem simple enough. I take it that when this mystical bond is formed that it relays to you what the engine can do and how much fuel it holds?”

“That is correct. This one is a very cheap and simple model with no extra abilities. Seems fitting for a ship in this condition.”

Sherra will emerge from the ship with Serena and Validar, and it's a flurry of activity. She stays mostly out of the way, but does listen in as Serena explains how the ship can fly. It dashes her thoughts of being able to acquire such a ship herself unless she somehow managed to grasp a better understanding of magic and how to use it.

Serena will call out to Sherra. “Sherra, your skills will be needed in flying this ship. The Spell Engine only allows raising or lowering of the ship and moving it forward. A crew is still need to turn and pilot the ship. I understand that you have these skills?”

Looking at the incoming column curiously he spots the familiar symbol of the main following of Mystra. His eyes scan up to the face and it's familiar though he pays it no mind. Nor would he pay respect to him. In his own eyes one worships Mystra in their own way.

Later, Serena will note the new Mystrain among the group. She’ll step up to him and notices his Holy Symbol. “Welcome, brother Mystran. I see that you are of the Order of the Shooting Stars. I am Serena, Knight of the Order of the Mystic Fire, an Inquisitor.”

"Your men are dead, as is the mage you employed. The Deville hag is gone, slain by Warblade. This ship is now ours and will be reconfigured as a warship. Its days as a slaver have ended."

Later upon hearing Validar’s plans, “Baron, I somehow doubt that this vessel is going to function as a warship. It’s barely suitable as a cargo vessel. You’d be better off transferring the Spell Engine to another vessel instead of using this one. A vessel more in line for your intended usage.”

If Validar sees Chareos starting to collect the gear of the fallen, he will stop him. "Hold for a moment. There may be evil items amongst them. Gather the bodies in one place and have one of the clerics Detect of Evil first, just to be certain. An evil artifact could cause harm just by touching, I have heard it said."

“I can scan them for any evil enchantments,” Serena offers. “It is a function of my Inquisitor abilities.”

Serena will look over the magic items when able. Otherwise, she'll have the Spell Engine lift the Blackhawk higher and move it towards the destination Jallarzi selected.

[Crysania]

Crysania:

"Indeed. There is still much to accomplish. I prefer not to meet the reaper anytime soon, if ever, to be honest." Validar is not sure of his thoughts on the afterlife and he remembers nothing other than falling and then waking up in pain. It was a somewhat different experience then the time he was felled by Wendelaine. Ironic that the same form was the 'death of him' twice now.

“Few do wish to meet him,” Crysania agrees.

"You have my undying thanks," Validar says, aware of the initially unintended pun.

“You are welcome.”

"I wish to be present at the event," Validar states. "These people were my friends and comrades at arms." Well, three of the four were at any rate, Validar thinks. He would not care if Claudius did not rejoin them. In any case he has no place in the New Seekers. Past actions have guaranteed that.

Validar also is told that they intend to purify the bodies if they do not wish to return by a funeral pyre. He will hold his tongue for the moment, but has a strong opinion in regards to that. "We will make a determination after the Speaking, based on the outcome of the conversations."

“I can cast the necessary spell,” Ivy offers. “I will pray for it in the morning and assist in this task.”

“Your assistance would be appreciated, Ivy.”


Crysania listens in on the Duke’s meeting with the High Priests. She was offered Warton’s post in the past, but didn’t want to get tied down to a temple posting. He seems to have done a fine job leading the faithful in Elcadan thus far.

This talk of a way to imprison demons intrigues Crysania.

“As the Duke says, if such a thing does exist we must find it and learn how to use it before they return. Adventurers have been exploring Gaz’s ruins for generations now. It must be very deep inside it to have remained concealed all this time.”

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

“No, not ever,” Myveria will say, her eyes also locked on the Blackhawk. “And I thought traveling in a carriage was fancy! But to fly like a bird…”

Lyonessa stares a while longer with her sister. The possibilities seem endless with such a ship. She wonders just what other strange and new places she could explore...

Jallarzi will comment on the matter. “It wouldn’t surprise me if this man is under the sway of the Deville sisters. Charmed by them to be precise. He may not be capable of answering your questions even if he wanted to. I would suggest having Lyonessa speak to him and Dispelling any magic upon him. She should be able to get him to speak by using her Singer’s Harp.”

Her daydreams are broken when talk of a prisoner reaches her ears. He seems to be the captain of that ship and under some sort of charm. Lyonessa will grab her Singer's Harp as suggested and sit down outside the cell of the man, playing and working on getting his charm broken and asking the questions Validar needs answered.

[Xander Churr]

Regnak

Later, Serena will note the new Mystrain among the group. She’ll step up him and notices his Holy Symbol. “Welcome brother Mystran. I see that you are of the Order of the Shooting Stars. I an Serena, Knight of the Order of the Mystic Fire, an Inquisitor.”

Chewing on a piece of black root and looking to the flanks for trouble, he barely hears the footfalls of anyone approaching. Pulling on his mount's reigns, Regnak looks down at Serena, noting her holy symbol as well.

“Thank you sister; I am Regnak of the Shooting Stars. A scout, if you will. But I am afraid I have been inadequate in my duties.” Spitting on the ground, he continues, “How is one supposed to scout and lead when they appear out of nowhere or ride the wind like an eagle? I lead these men into a trap, a trap I might have been able to forsee if I was not dwelling of the past.”

“Forgive me, I did not mean to cast my troubles upon you. It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance. If you will excuse me, I need to see what is ahead of us. Perhaps in Elcadan we may speak at length.”

Regnak will stay to the ground, he has no urge to fly in that accursed thing.

[Chareos]

Chareos

Somehow I missed this:

“And good tidings to you, sir,” Cereld answers. “I take it that you ride with Validar now?”

“Aye, for some months. Most of us answered Sherwood’s call when we first met. Now most are spread to the 4 winds: the elves and dwarves are no longer with us. Called by their kin to defend and retake forgotten lands.”

Chareos uses Detect Magic to locate magic items from the half-elf mage. He locates a wand, a pair of anklets, and a flask from the fallen mage. He also notes that the captain’s armor, scimitar and boots are enchanted.

Taking a sack and placing the magical Items within them for later IDing, Taking it with him towards below decks he looks about and spots the spell book of the mage as well as over 1560 in gold coins! Taking both the spell book and the gold and returning to the others.

“Several of the items the mage and captain possessed were indeed magical. What manner of enchantments I am not sure. His spell book was also recovered along with his wealth.”

How wonderful!” Argent answers. “You’ll find many interesting spells to learn in it. However, I didn’t bring it with me. It’s back at Jallarzi’s Estate. I’ll retrieve it when we arrive.”

“Thank you,” he says with a smile. “If you do not have Chaos within your spell book you are welcome to study mine at your leisure.”

[Sherra]

Sherra:

"It was a calculated risk. But that hag enacted her own downfall by allowing me to remain close to her. Perhaps it may have been more prudent to allow myself to be captured and find out where the ship was headed. Or even to wait here in this cell and break free ata more opportune time. But I could not allow her evil to remain on the field," Validar explains. "Your concern is touching noetheless. And I am glad that I am still here as well. "

"Just back from the dead and already all business," Sherra says, smiling. "You better get up off the floor then. It wouldn't be fitting for you to stay there." Although Validar probably doesn't need any, Sherra will assist her armored friend in standing should it look like he needs it.

"How long have I been out? Is the battle won or are there enemies still on the battlefield?" Validar asks.

"I can't speak for the battle below, but this ship is ours," Sherra declares. "Serena's arrival and knowledge of how to pilot it has secured that."

"Most likely. I cannot say that I have had much experience with sailing vessels. I will search out Sherra as she is one who would know her way around this ship." Validar will look for Sherra and find that she has already begun the process of exploring the Blackhawk.

"Sherra, it seems that you are the most experienced in the layout, operation and workings of a sailing vessel. What have you discovered and what ca you tell about where this vessel has been and where it is going?"

There is more gold in the captain’s quarters, some 8006 pieces of gold! In addition, there are many maps and charts. Some of them are recognizable to Sherra; this region and the waters to the south where she sailed before, but others she’s unsure of. Ominously, one of the charts provides the location to Oos. There is a logbook in addition to the charts, but it will take time to sort through all of this.

“Several of the items the mage and captain possessed were indeed magical. What manner of enchantments I am not sure. His spell book was also recovered along with his wealth.”

"With the wealth Chareos and I have found means the captain and his crew has done quite the business for himself," Sherra reveals. "The gold in his cabin alone is enough for several men to retire comfortably nearly anywhere they wished to."

"Additionally, I've found several maps and a logbook, Validar," Sherra continues. "I recognize several of the southern regions, which makes a lot of sense that he would be well travelled there. There is also a chart which provides the location to Oos. I'm sure I could find out more with time to review everything, but I heard there was a need to get us underway."

Serena will call out to Sherra. “Sherra, your skills will be needed in flying this ship. The Spell Engine only allows raising or lowering of the ship and moving it forward. A crew is still need to turn and pilot the ship. I understand that you have these skills?”

"I could probably manage the rigging and sails on this size vessel myself," Sherra says, looking around, "but it'd be much more efficient to get some help."

Sherra will take volunteers or assigned individuals up to the amount of crew she saw on the deck. A shortage of one or two wouldn't matter too much as they shouldn't be encountering any difficulties. She will direct the men (and women if any) and try not to use too many nautical terms if there are those who don't know a tween deck from a flush deck.

[Argent]

Argent:

“Thank you,” he says with a smile. “If you do not have Chaos within your spell book you are welcome to study mine at your leisure.”

“I appreciate the offer,” Argent explains, “but that is an Enchantment and I just can't wrap my mind around that kind of magic.”

(In other words, it’s in a school barred to her.)

“That is correct. This one is a very cheap and simple model with no extra abilities. Seems fitting for a ship in this condition.”

“I see,” Argent answers. “Well then, it would behoove us to find some better models down the line.”

[Serena]

Serena:

“Thank you sister; I am Regnak of the Shooting Stars. A scout, if you will. But I am afraid I have been inadequate in my duties.” Spitting on the ground, he continues, “How is one supposed to scout and lead when they appear out of nowhere or ride the wind like an eagle? I lead these men into a trap, a trap I might have been able to foresee if I was not dwelling of the past.”

“I was among the group when the enemy was encountered in Wrasseldown,” Serena says after a time. “You are dealing with a highly intelligent foe, not some simpleton. They were always going to attack from some weak point, no matter what you did. It seems to me that you are placing blame where there isn’t any. If you’ve never seen a flying ship before, then how could you reasonably prepare for such a thing? I do not see any negligence on your part.”

“Forgive me, I did not mean to cast my troubles upon you. It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance. If you will excuse me, I need to see what is ahead of us. Perhaps in Elcadan we may speak at length.”

“It is no bother, Regnak of the Shooting Stars,” Serena states. “A burden shared is one that is lessened. I look forward to speaking again once in Elcadan. Do you plan to attend the services at the temple?”

"I could probably manage the rigging and sails on this size vessel myself," Sherra says, looking around, "but it'd be much more efficient to get some help."

“That makes sense,” Serena answers. She’s confident that Sherra knows what to do and will not interfere with her task. She’ll stand ready to have the ship rise up into the sky.

[Xander Churr]

Regnak

“I was among the group when the enemy was encountered in Wrasseldown,” Serena says after a time. “You are dealing with a highly intelligent foe, not some simpleton. They were always going to attack from some weak point, no matter what you did. It seems to me that you are placing blame where there isn’t any. If you’ve never seen a flying ship before, then how could you reasonably prepare for such a thing? I do not see any negligence on your part.”

“It is no bother, Regnak of the Shooting Stars,” Serena states. “A burden shared is one that is lessened. I look forward to speaking again once in Elcadan. Do you plan to attend the services at the temple?”

“Jallazari recruited me to join this group. Shortly thereafter, they were delayed in their arrival. She spoke of danger, though now I know of which she spoke of. I thank you for your kind words, sister.”

“I am not entirely sure. I was never one for services with temple, but perhaps it is time for a change. I will see you at service. If you will excuse me, I must see to what may lie ahead.”

Rek will stay within eye sight and begin looking forward.

[Chareos]

Chareos

“I appreciate the offer,” Argent explains, “but that is an Enchantment and I just can't wrap my mind around that kind of magic.”

“Fair enough,” he says in reply, “Once we return may I look at your tome, as well?“ he asks curiously.


Chareos will go where he is needed whether by horseback or flying ship. (Up to Validar, figure he will go where he is needed.)

[Validar]

Baron Validar of Pyris -

"Your concern is touching nonetheless. And I am glad that I am still here as well. "

"Just back from the dead and already all business," Sherra says, smiling. "You better get up off the floor then. It wouldn't be fitting for you to stay there." Although Validar probably doesn't need any, Sherra will assist her armored friend in standing should it look like he needs it.

Validar pauses for a moment and realizes that tears had welled up in Sherra's eyes. Obviously she thought him fatally wounded. He pauses for a moment and his visage softens. "I am sorry. It is the curse of a leader, both of this group and of Pyris. Thank you for your concern. But I believe that I will be fine." He accepts the offered hand in standing.

"How long have I been out? Is the battle won or are there enemies still on the battlefield?" Validar asks.

"I can't speak for the battle below, but this ship is ours," Sherra declares. "Serena's arrival and knowledge of how to pilot it has secured that."

"Very good. But let us get on deck so we can be certain," Validar offers, allowing Sherra to lead the way.
-----------------------


The Blackhawk's captain is interrogated, but while he appears to want to speak, something is keeping him from doing so.

Jallarzi will comment on the matter. “It wouldn’t surprise me if this man is under the sway of the Deville sisters. Charmed by them to be precise. He may not be capable of answering your questions even if he wanted to. I would suggest having Lyonessa speak to him and Dispelling any magic upon him. She should be able to get him to speak by using her Singer’s Harp.”

"A fine suggestion, cousin," Validar will answer. "Every step of dealing with these vile Devilles is frought with some obstacle."

Validar turns to their bard and asks if she can work her unique magicks.

Her daydreams are broken when talk of a prisoner reaches her ears. He seems to be the captain of that ship and under some sort of charm. Lyonessa will grab her Singer's Harp as suggested and sit down outside the cell of the man, playing and working on getting his charm broken and asking the questions Validar needs answered.
-------------------

As preparations are being made to depart, his sister volunteers to lead the riders back to Jallarzi's estate. Validar will agree to allow Lady Rachel to head the overland return, but he is torn as to leaving her somewhat defenseless for the journey. Still it is a short journey. Validar will ask if any of the mages have the ability to scrye the group on their return trip.

While Validar thought to make the journey verland himself, he wishes to see how this flying ship operates and get a first-hand experience of the potential.
-------------------

Chareos manages to locate several magic items, as well as a sizeable amount of treasure. He also indicates that there is the expected spell books and many charts in the captain's quarters.

"With the wealth Chareos and I have found means the captain and his crew has done quite the business for himself," Sherra reveals. "The gold in his cabin alone is enough for several men to retire comfortably nearly anywhere they wished to."

"Additionally, I've found several maps and a logbook, Validar," Sherra continues. "I recognize several of the southern regions, which makes a lot of sense that he would be well travelled there. There is also a chart which provides the location to Oos. I'm sure I could find out more with time to review everything, but I heard there was a need to get us underway."

"Yes, it seems that working with the Devilles is quite lucrative, as is the slaving trade. The assembled coin will come in handy, as will the charts. I would make use of a flying vessel, although it seems this one would not be my first choice." But before they can discuss the find much, Sherra is called above deck to make ready to fly off. Validar will make his way there as well, observing what he can of Sherra in her more natural surroundings. The charts to Oos concern him, and he wonders if the enemy is seeking to free the Lich Lords imprisoned there.

Chareos indicates that several of the items are magickal. They will still need to be Identified.

“Several of the items the mage and captain possessed were indeed magical. What manner of enchantments I am not sure. His spell book was also recovered along with his wealth.”

"Very good. I am sure that yourself and Argent can handle the task of Identifying the items and then we will decide how to disperse them."
----------------------------------

The Duke meets with the heads of the priestly orders and talk turns towards the defeat and destruction of the demonesses. They have had discussions on the enemy and why they are so hard to defeat, due to them not being of the Prime Material Plane.

Eventually talk turns to imprisoning them. Travelling to the Abyss and destroying them there would be an undertaking well nigh impossible. Although Validar is still of the opinion that mere imprisonment is a poor overall solution.

"Imprisonment is not the ideal solution either, I am sure all would agree," Validar interjects. "The risk of release is great and the repercussions grow with the number of demons captured. However, it also is preferrable to allowing them free rein or simply banishing them repeatedly. I believe it is something we should put as much effort to as we are able, given that the undertaking to the Abyss would be a challenge for all time."

They are told that where Kharyna of Mystra is exploring is reputed to possibly have some special arcan knowledge in this area. Validar is confident that if it exists there, then her group will indeed locate it.

“Unfortunately, there has been no word from Kharyna as of late, “Jallarzi adds. “I have no idea how her quest goes.”

“If such a thing does exist,” Duke Relon states, “then it is imperative that we recover it before these vile witches can return to bedevil us.”

"We may have our hands full with the situation in Elcadan proper. However, we may also want to consider sending some assistance to the fair Kharyna in her explorations. We can make that assessment better after we have taken closer stock of our own new troubles."

This talk of a way to imprison demons intrigues Crysania.

“As the Duke says, if such a thing does exist we must find it and learn how to use it before they return. Adventurers have been exploring Gaz’s ruins for generations now. It must be very deep inside it to have remained concealed all this time.”

"From conversations with her they had spent much time exploring and had only penetrated several layers down into the first tower. It may be quite a task to explore the Towers in their entirety."
------------------

"Each of them has joined us now. Zynara in a non-adventuring role, the rest as a reborn group of Seekers. They are in Elcadan even now. The core group is nearly entirely rebuilt, except for Stephanie and Finrod and those three that we encountered here." Validar hopes that Tiger Cat, Dalliance and Arafel will add to their ranks, although he is concerned about the situation with Arafel now. It will be sticky for a short while.

“It seems that I missed a great deal during my absence,” Cereld notes. “After we freed Gateway, I rode with Araduin and Dar to bring the refuges from the ruined city. While we rode, a thought did strike me. You returned to us after the affair with Wendy. Perhaps others of our band did so as well?”

“And so I rode back to Whispering Hollow. I had to know if they were returned to life. I returned to their gravesites and found that all had been disturbed. The bodies of our companions were missing! Were they restored to life or had they been the victims of grave robbers? Even worse other followers of the Herald of Hell showed, along with their goblin minions. By the time I dealt with them and returned to Gateway, the Seekers were already gone on some other quest. I prayed to Heironeous for guidance and eventually it led me here to Elcadan. It seems my faith has been rewarded.”

"So it would appear. The Seekers were a force for good and I was disturbed to see them fall apart around me. In truth, it made it much easier to return to Pyris. And now they are nearly complete. I am told that the fallen may be restord to us, should they so choose. Although, while I would not directly deny Claudius return to the living, he will have no place in our Seekers. I am curious as to which of them will wish to join us once more."

And as for you, friend Cereld. What are your next plans?"
---------------------

"I shall have to thank her the next time I see her," he says.

“She already knows,” Serena answers mysteriously.

"Of that, I have no dount," he responds. Serena is a tough one to read, but her presence here is clearly a positive for their activities.


Later upon hearing Validar’s plans, “Baron, I somehow doubt that this vessel is going to function as a warship. It’s barely suitable as a cargo vessel. You’d be better off transferring the Spell Engine to another vessel instead of using this one. A vessel more in line for your intended usage.”

Validar cocks an eyebrow at the explanation. "You are correct in the estimation that this vessel is far from an ideal choice. However, I was not aware that the process of moving the Spell Engine was a simple one. Certainly a small warship would be the ideal choice. What do we have to do?"
-----------------------------

Validar will wait until the magick items recovered have been identified until figuring out how to award them. (What about anything from the captain?)

As for the gold, Chareos approaches him in private and asks about the gold and future desires for land.

"My friend. I am aware that each of us has earned the right to significant rewards in our tasks. When the time comes that you wish to acquire lands for yourself, I am certain that will be a simple matter. Once the Duchy of the Streel is reclaimed and operating as it should under the realm of Duke Relon, I am certain that a land award is a foregone conclusion to those who desire such. Similarly, the situation in Stone Ridge should produce much the same situation. And failing that, I have it on good word, that Pyris would already be predisposed to rewarding those who have come to her aid," Validar says with a wry smile.

"As for cash, we have not recovered as much as we may have were we nothing more than a simple adventuring band. However, in this case, the gold found is significant and impossible to determine who it would originally belong to. I will have these coins split among the group when we have the time."

Validar will have 500gp given to each of the Guardians and their associates (should they not decline it) and 100gp given to each of the New Seekers when they meet up. Another 1500gp will be set aside to compensate the families of the soldiers who were killed on this mission. The remainder will be held in group funds and used towards outfitting a new ship to move the Spell Engine from the Blackhawk.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed