Cynalon Knights #3

[GM Mad]

Cynalon Knights #3

Pre-Attack Loose Ends:

Zynara:

"I understand," Validar says back quietly as well. "It seems that you are quite happy here, although I understand there is a Mage Guild in Elcadan as well. Now that my Father has been declared the new Duke and that I am concentrating my efforts in the Western part of the Kingdom, we would certainly offer you the opportunity to join the Guild there and live in our lands."

"Admittedly, I know very little about the Elcadan Guild. But from what I have heard, the Guild here is far less restrictive. The goal here is the sharing of knowledge with its members and just who can join is regulated. Such is not the case with the Elcadan Guild."

"But I will consider your offer, Validar, and try to learn more about the Elcadan Guild."

Fort Fletcher:

Validar bows his head slightly at the King's assertion to his own wisdom in the matters at hand. "It is no doubt important to hold Fort Fletcher as it keeps the area of Stone Ridge from being reinforced from without the Kingdom. With a larger contingent of troops and a good commander, they should be able to hold until we are ready to begin our assault on Ardelphia. How soon can we expect troops to be committed to the Fort?"

"Fort Fletcher must remain in our hands," the King asserts. "Given the foul weather in that region and assuming that your companions succeed in their mission to defeat the forces of Auril, I cannot see any large influx of troops until later in the spring. A small force should be able to hold Fletcher in the meantime. Our forces are spread thin as it is. I cannot in good conscience over ommit to one region at the expense of another. We'll check up on those at the Fortress regularly so that their situation can be kept up to date. The sooner that the rest of the Guardian Shield is found, the better it will be for all of us."

"The Guardians will be needed in rooting out the demons in Elcadan, as well as some other enemies that will undoubtedly arise. When they are successful in their battle at the Ice Maiden's fortress, they will be recalled to Elcadan and Lady Sallavarian's estate. We will begin our movements to secure Elcadan immediately upon returning. You can count on Duke Relon and the rest of our allies to secure the Western Kingdom for you, Your Majesty. If all goes well, Ardelphia should not wait overly long. We will do our best to make progress in that direction whenever able."

"I assumed as much, Baron Validar. You and your companions have proven to be a powerful force in that portion of the Kingdom. I would not dream of holding them back or relegating them to a menial task. Adventuring band such as they have made up for and will continue to make up for our lack of manpower. They can easily handle tasks that would take a occupy a small army of soldiers otherwise."

Gabriella:

Validar says his goodbyes to those staying behind. He ends with his love, Lady Gabriella. Taking her hands in his, he looks into her eyes. "We will return victorious, with another victory in the King's name. I will see you as soon as the battle is won." He gives her a quick kiss and then places his helmet in place and readies his shield on his arm.

"I'll be waiting," Lady Allonica answers, a hopeful look on her face. Her nervousness, however, is apparent.

[GM Mad]

The Attack:

Transported by Silvarn the attack force has reached Hextor's Main Temple in New Keln. Outside the temple is a vast gladiatorial arena, in keeping with the 'survival of the fittest' aspect of Hextor. It's much warmer here than it was in either Pyris or Karn's Keep. Extra clothing is not required.

Just inside the temple is a vast cathedral to the vile Hextor. The area seems initially deserted, but is actually guarded by a pack of Abishai! These gargoyle-like devils fly from their perches to the attack!

“Beware their tail stingers!” Dame Sharl adds. “The venom can be fatal! Stay together!”

Sir Acerion blows his Horn of Goodness and a feeling of warmth and protection comes over those close to him. Sir Acerion’s Axe of the Valorous begins to glow brightly. Those looking in that direction will see that Dame Sharl’s Axe of Justice is also glowing.

A wave of Black and Green Abishai bears down the on the rescue party. Strangely enough, there is a noticeable shimmer in the air as the devils reach the outer edge of the multiple Protection from Evil effects surrounding the rescuers. The devils hesitate for a moment, as if unsure whether they should continue forward to rend their targets.

That hesitation proves to be fatal. The rescuers hold their ranks and move to the attack as the devils hesitate. Baron Validar strikes twice at two separate Abishai and they both vanish in a puff of smoke. The strong odor of sulfur follows as the devils are violently sent back to hell.

A dazzling array of counter attacks follow. Multiple Magic Missile spells whiz into the enemy forces. Each spell targets only one of the devils, but the flurry of enchanted arrows is enough to send the infernal creatures back to the lower planes.

Numerous weapons lash out. The Axe of Justice obliterates three of the Green Devils. “Know this, devils,” Dame Sharl cries out, “today you shall face justice!”

Silvarn moves quickly amongst the rescuers lashing out with a thin longsword seemingly composed of pure silver. Sir Alon dispatches two of the devils, as does Blod, Crysania and King Victor. Everyone else is able to slay at least one.

In a matter of moments, all the Black and Green Abishai are gone. Only the Red Abishai remains and astonishment can’t help but play upon its hideous face. The Abishai attempts to turn and flee but doesn’t get far. A flaming warhammer slams into the devil's back and sends him to the cathedral floor.

Sir Acerion is on the devil before he can react and with a single stroke from the Axe of the Valorous the last Abishai is dispatched. Just as quickly as it began, the battle has ended. None of the rescuers were damaged.

[GM Mad]

Deeper into the Temple:

“We must keep moving!”, Sir Alon cries out as he begins to rush towards the altar area. Two doors, one on either far side of the altar, seem to be the only ways out. “We’ll need to divide our forces. Dame Sharl, take your group through the door on the left. The rest of us will go to the right.”

“One moment, Sir Alon,” Dame Sharl responds. “In spite of our race against time, I cannot in good conscience allow this evil altar to remain untouched. It is a blasphemy that must be destroyed! It will take only a moment.”

Looking first to Crysania and then Sir Acerion, Sharl adds, “Sister, Brother will you assist me?”

“Gladly.”

Crysania steps up right away, and (assumingly) Sir Acerion follows. Together, the three followers of Heironeous strike the altar with their axes at the same time. A scream-like shrill cry is heard seemingly coming from the altar. Cracks develop in the ebony altar and they rapidly expand until the entire altar just shatters into hundreds of pieces.

That task complete, the rescuers continue on their way. Dame Sharl and her group disappear through the left-hand door, while everyone else continues on to the right.


A small hallway lies beyond the right-hand door and a quick visual inspection reveals them to be robing chambers and storage for unholy Hextor items used in their services. The group quickly moves on. Stairs are located and the group rushes down them. The stairs end in a hallway some forty feet down. There is only one way to go, so the group continues forward.

Up ahead the hallway widens to twenty feet in width and a pair of large doors are on either side. The passageway itself continues onward. One of the large doors attracts your immediate attention. A dull red glow can be seen from underneath the door and standing before the portal are two large constructs.

The constructs are each eight feet tall and were built to resemble black suits of armor. Their faces have a white skull painted on them. Each construct has six arms and they both hold an array of weapons. The upper pair of arms holds a bow and an arrow. The middle set a pair of longswords and the two daggers are in the lower set of hands.

“Battle Golems!”, Crysania calls out. “Magical guardians common to the vile slugs!”


Now what?

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Serena:
"That does explain why I have never heard mention of such a title before. I do make a point of trying to know about all the factions in the kingdom. I wish you luck on your mission. I would think there are no shortage of targets for you. As for the Lady of Mysteries, she is well-named."

“Thank you,” Serena will simply respond. She is a woman of few words.

Validar nods in her direction as the conversation abrubtly comes to an end. For one called an Inquisitor, she doesn't seem to ask many questions, Validar thinks. But then, that doesn't mean she is not accumulating information. Clearly Validar has nothing to worry from such an Inquisition.


"That is all I see them as. A vile creature with no backbone that needs simply to be stepped on and eliminated. As for Sir Acerion, here, I am sure his presence will be pivotal in the battle to come."

"Agreed," Acerion adds. "Slugs is the only title they are worthy of receiving."

“Slugs they shall be then.”

"It has worked well for me," Validar says with a slight smile. Everyone seems so enamored with the unusual disparaging insult. Perhaps it is somewhat unique, Validar finally thinks.
-------------------------------------------------------------

Zynara:
"It seems that you are quite happy here, although I understand there is a Mage Guild in Elcadan as well. Now that my Father has been declared the new Duke and that I am concentrating my efforts in the Western part of the Kingdom, we would certainly offer you the opportunity to join the Guild there and live in our lands."

"Admittedly, I know very little about the Elcadan Guild. But from what I have heard, the Guild here is far less restrictive. The goal here is the sharing of knowledge with its members and just who can join is regulated. Such is not the case with the Elcadan Guild."

"But I will consider your offer, Validar, and try to learn more about the Elcadan Guild."

"Certainly, if the situation is better here, then that would be understandable. I am certain that there will be some changes in all fazes of Elcadan life, including the Mage Guild. If there is anything that is questionable or worrisome in their actions, then it will be brought to light and eliminated. All the Guilds are being inspected in Elcadan and will be changed as necessary."
--------------------------------------------------------------

Fort Fletcher:
Validar bows his head slightly at the King's assertion to his own wisdom in the matters at hand. "It is no doubt important to hold Fort Fletcher as it keeps the area of Stone Ridge from being reinforced from without the Kingdom. With a larger contingent of troops and a good commander, they should be able to hold until we are ready to begin our assault on Ardelphia. How soon can we expect troops to be committed to the Fort?"

"Fort Fletcher must remain in our hands," the King asserts. "Given the foul weather in that region and assuming that your companions succeed in their mission to defeat the forces of Auril, I cannot see any large influx of troops until later in the spring. A small force should be able to hold Fletcher in the meantime. Our forces are spread thin as it is. I cannot in good conscience over commit to one region at the expense of another. We'll check up on those at the Fortress regularly so that their situation can be kept up to date. The sooner that the rest of the Guardian Shield is found, the better it will be for all of us."

Validar is worried that they will not have a proper number of reinforcements to do the necessary job. Hopefully, Sir Corley and the rest will succeed in defeating Auril's forces and the weather will secure the fortress until Spring from anything except a specific strike by adventurers.

"Sir Corley and the Guardians will defeat the Ice Maiden's minions, which should remove any immediate threats from the area. With luck, we will be able to secure Elcadan by Spring and then be able to direct more troops of our own to Fort Fletcher."

"As for the Guardian Shield, it is certainly a priority. I will try to commit some resources to the claiming of the rest of the Shield. It would indeed solidify that region."


"The Guardians will be needed in rooting out the demons in Elcadan, as well as some other enemies that will undoubtedly arise. When they are successful in their battle at the Ice Maiden's fortress, they will be recalled to Elcadan and Lady Sallavarian's estate. We will begin our movements to secure Elcadan immediately upon returning. You can count on Duke Relon and the rest of our allies to secure the Western Kingdom for you, Your Majesty. If all goes well, Ardelphia should not wait overly long. We will do our best to make progress in that direction whenever able."

"I assumed as much, Baron Validar. You and your companions have proven to be a powerful force in that portion of the Kingdom. I would not dream of holding them back or relegating them to a menial task. Adventuring band such as they have made up for and will continue to make up for our lack of manpower. They can easily handle tasks that would take a occupy a small army of soldiers otherwise."

"That is true, my King. But certainly, we need to develop a series of stronger reinforced castles and fortresses with a stronger army to keep the Kingdom safe from harm. Relying on small bands of people has its limits as well. In the meantime, we shall certainly strive to be as effective as we are able."
-------------------------------------------------------

Gabriella:
Validar says his goodbyes to those staying behind. He ends with his love, Lady Gabriella. Taking her hands in his, he looks into her eyes. "We will return victorious, with another victory in the King's name. I will see you as soon as the battle is won." He gives her a quick kiss and then places his helmet in place and readies his shield on his arm.

"I'll be waiting," Lady Allonica answers, a hopeful look on her face. Her nervousness, however, is apparent.

Through the visor of his great helm, Validar sees his love one last time before entering the Stone House. His gaze lingers for a moment, catching the nervousness etched on her face. With one more quick wave, he steps determinedly into the cube.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

The Temple has been breached by the Cynalon attack party and within the first few minutes, the first guardians of the Temple have been encountered. A wave of multi-colored demons fly at the group, led by a single red Abishai.

Just inside the temple is a vast cathedral to the vile Hextor. The area seems initially deserted, but is actually guarded by a pack of Abishai! These gargoyle-like devils fly from their perches to the attack!

“Beware their tail stingers!” Dame Sharl adds. “The venom can be fatal! Stay together!”

Sir Acerion blows his Horn of Goodness and a feeling of warmth and protection comes over those close to him. Sir Acerion’s Axe of the Valorous begins to glow brightly. Those looking in that direction will see that Dame Sharl’s Axe of Justice is also glowing.

Validar's only concern is that some of the members of the group which he has not fought with previously may not be as used to working in a group as some of the others. The demons are likely to be much of a challenge, Validar thinks to himself.

That thought is not wrong. The outer-planar creatures are repulsed as they get close to the group. Likely it is the effects of the paladins and their holy weapons. Thanks to Dame Sharl's commands and the apparent discipline of the group, the line holds rank.

Seeing this, Validar steps forward to strike, as his magickal boots carry him quickly to the fray. Two quick strikes by his enchanted blade eliminate two of the Abishai from the assault. The smell of sulphur fills the air.

Nearby, Validar sees Dame Sharl obliterate three of the demons. Others strike as well with steel and magick and in mere moments, the attack has been eliminated.

In a matter of moments, all the Black and Green Abishai are gone. Only the Red Abishai remains and astonishment can’t help but play upon its hideous face. The Abishai attempts to turn and flee but doesn’t get far. A flaming warhammer slams into the devil's back and sends him to the cathedral floor.

Sir Acerion is on the devil before he can react and with a single stroke from the Axe of the Valorous the last Abishai is dispatched. Just as quickly as it began, the battle has ended.

"Well done," Validar says. "I should think we will see stronger resistance than this before we are done, but a fine start."

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

The first group of defenders quickly eliminated, Sir Alon calls for the group to move on. The followers of Heironeous however, move to destroy the altar. Validar agrees with the decision, as he would like to see the entire temple razed to the ground.

With that act completed in a satisfying manner, the group splits up. Dame Sharl's group goes left while Sir Alon and Crysania's group both go the right. Validar follows, closer to the back, to help protect the rear of their column.

Soon they reach a point of several options. However, the reddish glow coming from below one of the doors, causes everyone to stop there. Outside this door are two statues as if guardians.

The constructs are each eight feet tall and were built to resemble black suits of armor. Their faces have a white skull painted on them. Each construct has six arms and they both hold an array of weapons. The upper pair of arms holds a bow and an arrow. The middle set a pair of longswords and the two daggers are in the lower set of hands.

“Battle Golems!”, Crysania calls out. “Magical guardians common to the vile slugs!”

"Then destroy them as quickly as we can," Validar call out. He will strike if there is room to do so, concentrating on one golem only. "There would not be Guardians if there were not something worth guarding, and therefore, something worth destroying."

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

Sir Acerion blows his Horn of Goodness and a feeling of warmth and protection comes over those close to him. Sir Acerion’s Axe of the Valorous begins to glow brightly. Those looking in that direction will see that Dame Sharl’s Axe of Justice is also glowing.

In a matter of moments, all the Black and Green Abishai are gone. Only the Red Abishai remains and astonishment can’t help but play upon its hideous face. The Abishai attempts to turn and flee but doesn’t get far. A flaming warhammer slams into the devil's back and sends him to the cathedral floor.

As it turns out, the combined force is more than enough to dispatch the Abishai, and quite quickly. He probably didn't need to sound the Horn, but he figured it would be best when nearly everyone could benefit from its use rather than later when only a small handful of them might be together. Plus the initial attack is the most important to gain momentum for themselves.

Sir Acerion is on the devil before he can react and with a single stroke from the Axe of the Valorous the last Abishai is dispatched. Just as quickly as it began, the battle has ended. None of the rescuers were damaged.

With grim satisfaction, Acerion dispatches the last Abishai. "If this is all they bothered to keep as guard around one of their altars, they are foolish indeed," Acerion says.

“One moment, Sir Alon,” Dame Sharl responds. “In spite of our race against time, I cannot in good conscience allow this evil altar to remain untouched. It is a blasphemy that must be destroyed! It will take only a moment.”

Looking first to Crysania and then Sir Acerion, Sharl adds, “Sister, Brother will you assist me?”

“Gladly.”

"I shall," Acerion says simply and joins the other two around the altar. Still expecting some additional defense or guardians, Acerion lets the others worry about that for the moment.

Crysania steps up right away, and Sir Acerion follows. Together, the three followers of Heironeous strike the altar with their axes at the same time. A scream-like shrill cry is heard seemingly coming from the altar. Cracks develop in the ebony altar and they rapidly expand until the entire altar just shatters into hundreds of pieces.

Acerion smiles beneath his helmet and silently praises Heironeous. While not a killing blow against the temple, the vile priests here should feel some of that impact their power, if any are alive long enough to notice once we are finished.

Acerion joins the rest of his group as they begin to move deeper into the temple. They quickly descend to the next level and spread out a bit as the hallway opens up. Up ahead are a pair of doors, from which under one a red glow can be seen, along with a pair of guardians.

“Battle Golems!”, Crysania calls out. “Magical guardians common to the vile slugs!”

"Then destroy them as quickly as we can," Validar call out. He will strike if there is room to do so, concentrating on one golem only. "There would not be Guardians if there were not something worth guarding, and therefore, something worth destroying."

Acerion will move up as space allows. He will use overhead swings with his axe against one of the Battle Golems instead of side-to-side sweeping arcs if there is not enough room. Unfamiliar with fighting beside most of these individuals, the paladin will not assume the others know to stay out of the arc of his axe.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Sir Acerion is on the devil before he can react and with a single stroke from the Axe of the Valorous the last Abishai is dispatched. Just as quickly as it began, the battle has ended. None of the rescuers were damaged.

With grim satisfaction, Acerion dispatches the last Abishai. "If this is all they bothered to keep as guard around one of their altars, they are foolish indeed," Acerion says.

"A dozen, a hundred, or a thousand; it makes no difference to the final outcome, my friend," Validar will respond. "This day, the slugs shall face a terrible defeat, at the hands of this assembled force and in the name of King Victor of Cynalon. However, I must point out to everyone: do not get overconfident. Their entire force is likely to be assembled in the pits of this infernal place, preparing to initiate their sacrifice. The final battle will likely be terrible to behold."

[Serena]

Serena:

The battle against the devils is decidedly short and one sided. The Holy Aura that surrounds Serena and the other paladins present is enough to make the infernal creatures pause. That pause quickly proves to be fatal. Serena manages to bash one of the devils off this plane.

Sir Alon directs the group to continue onward and Serena easily keeps up. It should be obvious to anyone paying attention that her movements are magically enhanced. While not as quick as Baron Validar, Serena can get around pretty easily.

Although silent on the subject, Serena does approve of the destruction of the altar. If it is the focus of any magical affects as is the case in many temples, then those magicks should no longer function.


Moving deeper into the temple, more guardians are encountered. This time it is a pair of golems that appear to be special to the Hextorites. The golem’s appearance mimics that to of their many-armed god. They also hold the most common weapons of Hextor.

“Battle Golems!”, Crysania calls out. “Magical guardians common to the vile slugs!”

"Then destroy them as quickly as we can," Validar call out. He will strike if there is room to do so, concentrating on one golem only. "There would not be Guardians if there were not something worth guarding, and therefore, something worth destroying."

Serena will stand back and let the warriors engage the golems. Her spells or even healing magic might be needed. Serena will also keep an eye out for any other threats that may come along while everyone is concentrating on the golems.

“That red glow… It’s almost hellish nature. I cannot help but wonder if this is an entrance to the Hellpit Silvarn spoke of. Our goal might be just on the other side of these doors!”

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Serena will stand back and let the warriors engage the golems. Her spells or even healing magic might be needed. Serena will also keep an eye out for any other threats that may come along while everyone is concentrating on the golems.

“That red glow… It’s almost hellish in nature. I cannot help but wonder if this is an entrance to the Hellpit Silvarn spoke of. Our goal might be just on the other side of these doors!”

As Validar moves to attack one of the Battle Golems, he hears Serena's comment. "All the more reason to quickly and decisively eliminate these Guardians!" Validar shouts out. "Take out them and the doors as quickly as we are able!"

Validar is not at all familiar with the arrangement of typical Hextor temples, having only seen one previously and that was set up in an existing structure. It seems like a very short distance for them to have travelled so far, but it is not an impossible assumption.

Validar readies himself for the next step of their assault, even as he moves to destroy one of the Battle Golems.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:


The rescuers have moved deeper into the Temple of Hextor. Already one group led by Dame Sharl has split off from the main force and gone their separate way. The combined force led by Sir Alon and Crysania of Heironeous continues on together.

In the next level down, the group has come across Battle Golems guarding a door in a wide corridor. A hellish reddish glow can be seen underneath the door they guard. Battle Golems are a special type of construct unique to the Hextorites. Each golem is all in black with a white skull where its face would be. It has six arms, as Hextor is reported to possess. A collection of weapons common to the Hextorites is in their arms. The upper arms hold a longbow, the middle set longswords, and daggers in the lower arms.

By mutual agreement, battle begins!


Sir Alon, Sir Acerion, Blod, and Baron Validar reach the first golem and strike. Sir Alon’s sword barely seems to scratch the golem, but does seem to do some damage. Likewise, Baron Validar’s longsword does seemingly minor damage. It’s like striking a solid hunk of metal! Blod strikes with his two-handed sword from the flank, but his efforts seem even less successful than Sir Alon and Baron Validar.

Sir Acerion stands before the Battle Golem and with an overhead strike drives his Holy Axe into the foul construct! The glowing axe bites deeply into the Battle Golem’s chest doing much damage.

The Battle Golem fights back with its array of weapons. A pair of arrows are fired at Sir Acerion, and one pierces his armor. Both longswords focus in on the construct's hated foe. One connects and Sir Acerion is forced several steps back. The daggers try to stab Sir Alon and Baron Validar without success.


Crysania, Oran, Gorso, and Lord Sharadin rush to engage the other Battle Golem while Drakkimor and Serena stand back.

“Hold your ground, Gorso,” Drakkimor commands. “Your club will not harm the golem. Stay near me.”

The half-ogre exchanges glances between the golem and Drakkimor before moving to his master’s side.

Leaning towards Serena, Drakkimor adds, “Battle Golems are highly resistant to damage and spells are worthless against them. Only magical weapons can do a measure of damage to them and it usually takes a long time to bring one of them down. However, Sir Acerion’s Holy Weapon does seem unusually potent against them!”


Crysania hits twice with her battle axe for only minor damage. Oran’s flaming hammer also finds the mark twice with only negligible damage done. Lord Sharadin’s efforts are pretty much the same.

The Battle Golem fights back. Arrows and a dagger miss Crysania, but a longsword does not. Oran is hit by the other longsword. A dagger misses Lord Sharadin.


Back at the first golem, Sir Acerion drives his battle-axe deep into his target two more times. The Battle Golem stumbles to one knee but fights on. Another arrow and longsword strike Sir Acerion once more and the knight is wounded further. A combination of hits from Baron Validar puts the Golem down for good.


The combatants of the second Battle Golem are bolstered as Sir Alon and Blod rush to assist them. More damage is done to this golem, but yet it remains standing and defiant! It lashes out once more with most of its attacks directed at Crysania. The Priestess takes more damage, but remains on her feet.


Serena and Drakkimor hear the creak of a door being opened behind them! (The door opposite of the golem guarded one.) As the door opens, men rush out ready to attack!

“Protect the Master!”, the four men seemingly chant. From their vacant gazes, they all seem to be in some sort of trance.

Baron Validar catches a glimpse of the four men and comes to a stop. Two of them he recognizes! Former Seekers he hasn’t seen in many months! The elfin mage Araduin and the elfin follower of Ehlonna, Dar Thaltus!

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The other two men are both human and unknown to anyone present here. One of the men wears chainmail armor, the other no armor.


Hit Points:

Sir Acerion – 27 of 57
Crysania – 56 of 84
Oran - 92 of 102

Now what?

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

As the Battle Golems come to life, Validar rushes forward to attack. With only two direct enemies in a enclosed corridor, the matter now is to destroy these foes as quickly as possible. The group rushes forward and four of them strike the first Golem. While all good strikes, the constructs seem to deflect most of the damage done to them.

Sir Acerion rushes in and does considerable damage with his Holy Weapon, but the Golem does the same to him. Not surprisingly, the golems seem to be focused on their leader's main enemy, those of them who follow Heironeous. However, as Acerion has managed to draw all of the Golem's attention, Validar is able to put the finishing touches to the construct with two final strikes.

"A challenging foe," Validar states to Sir Acerion as Sir Alon and Blod rush off to fell the other golem. "Your axe seems to have been the bane of these golems. Let us..." Before Validar can finish his thought to assist in the destruction of the remaining Battle Golem, the door opposite them opens and four men rush out.

Clearly they are entranced followers of some cleric of Hextor here, and Validar changes course to be ready to meet them with his sword. He suddenly stops quickly and outstretches his arms as if to block anyone from his group to attack.

"Dar Thaltus? Araduin!" Validar says, slightly surprised, as the elves' faces come into view. Two of the four are previous allies of his with the Seekers!

"I know two of these men!" Validar says as he continues forward to try and hold them at bay. "They are comrades of mine. We need to subdue them and free them from their mental entrapment!"

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

Sir Acerion stands before the Battle Golem and with an overhead strike drives his Holy Axe into the foul construct! The glowing axe bites deeply into the Battle Golem’s chest doing much damage.

The Battle Golem fights back with its array of weapons. A pair of arrows are fired at Sir Acerion, and one pierces his armor. Both longswords focus in on the construct's hated foe. One connects and Sir Acerion is forced several steps back. The daggers try to stab Sir Alon and Baron Validar without success.

"What a vile construct this is.." Acerion says, the final word nearly lost as he is hit by a longsword following an arrow wound a moment before. Hissing between his teeth at the pain, the paladin steps forward once more, eager to drive his axe deep.

Back at the first golem, Sir Acerion drives his battle-axe deep into his target two more times. The Battle Golem stumbles to one knee but fights on. Another arrow and longsword strike Sir Acerion once more and the knight is wounded further. A combination of hits from Baron Validar puts the Golem down for good.

Trading blows, Acerion sees the Golem is getting the worst of the deal. As he pulls his axe free, readying for another swing, he spots Validar deal a wicked combination of blows and the Golem is felled.

"A challenging foe," Validar states to Sir Acerion as Sir Alon and Blod rush off to fell the other golem. "Your axe seems to have been the bane of these golems. Let us..." Before Validar can finish his thought to assist in the destruction of the remaining Battle Golem, the door opposite them opens and four men rush out.

"Well fought, my friend," Acerion replies. "Indeed I have never faced such a foe." Validar's further comment is interrupted by the arrival of four seemingly fanatical men in the service of some foul cleric or leader of this temple. Hefting his axe once more, Acerion turns to engage the new threat, but Validar stays his hand.

Dar Thaltus? Araduin!" Validar says, slightly surprised, as the elves' faces come into view. Two of the four are previous allies of his with the Seekers!

"I know two of these men!" Validar says as he continues forward to try and hold them at bay. "They are comrades of mine. We need to subdue them and free them from their mental entrapment!"

"Perhaps I can assist in this manner. Give me but a moment," Acerion says, stepping forward a bit. He will concentrate and use his innate ability to Dispel Magic, hoping to catch the four men in its area. If that should prove difficult, he will try to at least catch the two elves whom Validar is familiar with.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Dar Thaltus? Araduin!" Validar says, slightly surprised, as the elves' faces come into view. Two of the four are previous allies of his with the Seekers!

"I know two of these men!" Validar says as he continues forward to try and hold them at bay. "They are comrades of mine. We need to subdue them and free them from their mental entrapment!"

"Perhaps I can assist in this manner. Give me but a moment," Acerion says, stepping forward a bit. He will concentrate and use his innate ability to Dispel Magic, hoping to catch the four men in its area. If that should prove difficult, he will try to at least catch the two elves whom Validar is familiar with.

Validar just nods, casting a glance back at the other Battle Golem as well. Hopefully the others will be able to deal with it quickly as well. Kharyna was successful in Dispelling the controlled effects and it seems as if these men have succumed to some mental entrapment much like the Black Water effect that they destroyed earlier. Perhaps Acerion will be just as effective.

Validar keeps ready for both directions for something to happen and will react accordingly. "If the men are not affected by Acerion's power, try to subdue and capture them! Even those I do not know are likely not bad men, else they would not be enthralled."

If the men are dangerous or try to cast spells, then Validar will attack them, one blow to different individuals. If the Battle Golem is still standing and the men are dealt with, then try to move in and attack it.

[Serena]

Serena:

Serena holds her ground and keeps watch as the others engage the magical constructs dedicated to Hextor. She tightly grasps her staff with both hands as if just waiting to strike with it. The Archmage Drakkimor is close by. Serena notes that he holds his bodyguard back from the battle, claiming that the half-ogre’s club wouldn’t harm the golems.

Leaning towards Serena, Drakkimor adds, “Battle Golems are highly resistant to damage and spells are worthless against them. Only magical weapons can do a measure of damage to them and it usually takes a long time to bring one of them down. However, Sir Acerion’s Holy Weapon does seem unusually potent against them!”

“I understand,” Serena nods. “These creatures are a perversion of the Ladies gifts and fully deserve to be destroyed. Yes, Sir Acerion’s is brimming with the power of his honorable god. It should make short work of these vile creations.”

The combat seems to be going well, although the followers of Heironeous are taking heavy damage. Noise and movement alerts Serena that the other door has opened and new arrivals are pouring into the corridor. Unknown men appear, but it seems that two of them are known to Baron Validar.

"Dar Thaltus? Araduin!" Validar says, slightly surprised, as the elves' faces come into view. Two of the four are previous allies of his with the Seekers!

"I know two of these men!" Validar says as he continues forward to try and hold them at bay. "They are comrades of mine. We need to subdue them and free them from their mental entrapment!"

"Perhaps I can assist in this manner. Give me but a moment," Acerion says, stepping forward a bit. He will concentrate and use his innate ability to Dispel Magic, hoping to catch the four men in its area. If that should prove difficult, he will try to at least catch the two elves that Validar is familiar with.

Validar keeps ready for both directions for something to happen and will react accordingly. "If the men are not affected by Acerion's power, try to subdue and capture them! Even those I do not know are likely not bad men, else they would not be enthralled."

Serena was ready to defend herself against these new attackers, but steps back to give Sir Acerion a chance do whatever he plans on doing. If Sir Acerion’s efforts do not appear to have any affect, then Serena will use her own innate ability to Dispel Evil Magic.

“If their will is bound by evil magic, then I should be able to free them!”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Underneath the Hextor Temple in New Keln, the rescuers have come across a door guarded by a pair of Battle Golems. While engaging them, another door opens and men seemingly entranced come forth to do battle. Baron Validar knows two of these men. They are the elfin mage Araduin and the elfin follower of Ehlonna, Dar Thaltus from the Seekers! The Baron shouts this information as others the new arrivals close in on Drakkimor and Serena.

Sir Acerion uses his innate Aasimon ability to Dispel Magic on the four men. Carefully, he places the effect just past Serena and Drakkimor and on the four. The effort meets with moderate success. Dar Thaltus and one of the other men stop their approach and seem genuinely confused.

Baron Validar rushes in and grasps Araduin’s hands as the Elfin Mage show signs of trying to cast a spell. The more powerful Baron easily controls Araduin.

Gorso closes in on the other human in an effort to protect his master.

Serena brings her own ability to Dispel Evil Magic into play. The Priestess of Mystra succeeds and the last two men are freed from their trance.

Araduin looks around in confusion before focusing in on the armored figure before him.

“What goes on here?” Araduin asks. “Release me at once!”

Recognition seems to set in and Dar Thaltus says, “Validar? Is that you? Where are we? What is this place?”


In the background, the last Battle Golem goes down under a hail of attacks. Crysania is struck by a longsword before the construct is defeated. This particular battle has come to an end. Crysania uses healing magic to repair some of the damage done to her.


The other two men are equally confused about what is going on. They clutch their weapons and are ready to defend themselves.

“What’s going on here?” One of the men demands. “Who are you people? What do you want with us?”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

All quiet for the moment, but what lurks behind the red glowing door? Going to check out the door Dar and Araduin came from?


Hit Points:

Sir Acerion - 27 of 57
Crysania - 66 of 84
Oran - 92 of 102

Now what?

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Serena was ready to defend herself against these new attackers, but steps back to give Sir Acerion a chance do whatever he plans on doing. If Sir Acerion’s efforts do not appear to have any affect, then Serena will use her own innate ability to Dispel Evil Magic.

“If their will is bound by evil magic, then I should be able to free them!”

"You can be certain that they are not acting of their own free will and knowing my friends, it must have been evil magic which beguiled them," Validar says as he awaits Sir Acerion's power and its results.

Acerion manages to free Dar Thaltus and one of the other men from their enthrallment. They stop in obvious confusion. Seeing Araduin begin to try and cast a spell, Validar quickly grabs the elf, disrupting the procedure.

Serena brings her own ability to Dispel Evil Magic into play. The Priestess of Mystra succeeds and the last two men are freed from their trance. Araduin looks around in confusion before focusing in on the armored figure before him. “What goes on here?” Araduin asks. “Release me at once!”

Recognition seems to set in and Dar Thaltus says, “Validar? Is that you? Where are we? What is this place?”

"Indeed, my elfin friends, your eyes do not deceive you. It is I," Validar states. "You are in the main Temple of Hextor in New Keln. We are attempting to interrupt a sacrifice and the summoning of the Trumpet of Acheron! It is good to see you both again, despite the circumstances." While they talk, Validar notices the other Battle Golem go down, and that puts him a slight bit more at ease.

The other two men are equally confused about what is going on. They clutch their weapons and are ready to defend themselves.

“What’s going on here?” One of the men demands. “Who are you people? What do you want with us?”

Validar steps up before the men. "I am Baron Validar of Pyris. You must have been ensnared mentally by the vile Hextorite slugs and made to work for them. You are in the Main Temple in New Keln", Validar explains.

"My companions include several distinguished members of the Cynalonian nobility including our new King," Validar will add to his explanation. "We seek to twart the slugs and their vile sacrifice and summoning. You may join us or leave now, but we do not have much time remaining."

"As for you, Araduin and Dar Thaltus, I would understand if you are confused. We could certainly use your assistance, should you feel inclined. What do you last remember?"

Validar trusts that the others will begin the process of checking the door where the four came from as well and the door with the red glow emanating from it, while he deals with his friends quickly.

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

Sir Acerion uses his innate Aasimon ability to Dispel Magic on the four men. Carefully, he places the effect just past Serena and Drakkimor and on the four. The effort meets with moderate success. Dar Thaltus and one of the other men stop their approach and seem genuinely confused.

Acerion is pleased that his ability freed at least some of the men. Although not the perfect outcome, the paladin knows they have other spellcasters that should be able to free the other two.

As if on cue, Serena uses a similar power, freeing the two remaining men and Validar begins to quickly explain what is going on to friends and strangers alike.

Turning, Acerion sees the other Golem fall and is relieved that the other members of their group were able to dispatch it. Taking the moment of relative quiet, Acerion uses his Laying of Hands power on himself to heal some of the damage done by the Golem he had faced.

Acerion will then pick up his axe and move toward the door that the four men came from. Pushing the door open (or keeping it open if it still is) with one hand, he keeps his axe ready in the other. Acerion will quickly scan the room for any other inhabitants first and then, if vacant, observe the details of the room.

[Serena]

Serena:

"You can be certain that they are not acting of their own free will and knowing my friends, it must have been evil magic which beguiled them," Validar says as he awaits Sir Acerion's power and its results.

Serena simply accepts the Baron’s explanation without comment. As the Priestess watches, Sir Acerion removes whatever enchantment was controlling two of the men. She is curious as to how he did that, as he did not cast a spell or use a magic item in any obvious manner. An innate ability or one granted to him by the holy artifacts he possesses, she assumes.

Serena uses her own innate ability next and frees the remaining men. The four men have been freed and Baron Validar is speaking to his old comrades while the other two men are understandably defensive. Behind them, the second battle golem is destroyed.

Turning, Acerion sees the other Golem fall and is relieved that the other members of their group were able to dispatch it. Taking the moment of relative quiet, Acerion uses his Laying of Hands power on himself to heal some of the damage done by the Golem he had faced.

Seeing Sir Acerion healing his wounds, Serena steps closer and says. “Let me know if you need additional healing, Sir Acerion.”

Serena will follow Sir Acerion as he moves through the door the four men came from. She’ll give the knight plenty of room just in case another combat breaks out.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The Battle Golems have been destroyed and the four entranced men freed. There is a short pause as the group recovers from the combat. Baron Validar speaks to the freed men.

Validar steps up before the men. "I am Baron Validar of Pyris. You must have been ensnared mentally by the vile Hextorite slugs and made to work for them. You are in the Main Temple in New Keln", Validar explains.

"My companions include several distinguished members of the Cynalonian nobility including our new King," Validar will add to his explanation. "We seek to thwart the slugs and their vile sacrifice and summoning. You may join us or leave now, but we do not have much time remaining."

The two men seem satisfied with this explanation and lower their weapons. It’s also clear from their body language that they do not know each other.

“Those infidel dogs!” One of the men angrily declares. “I will happily help you fight them for what they did to me! I am Alazar of the Shifting Sands.”

The man has the appearance of an inhabitant of Zakahara; the same land of Lady Gabriella’s ancestry. His skin is darker from long exposure to the desert sun. Alazar is the one without armor.

“I’m Vance,” the other man says. “As long as there is a an equal share of treasure to be had, you can count me in!”

"As for you, Araduin and Dar Thaltus, I would understand if you are confused. We could certainly use your assistance, should you feel inclined. What do you last remember?"

“We made an oath to destroy these villains, Validar,” Dar states. “I do not go back on my word.”

“Since we are already here we might as well finish the job.” Araduin answers. “Are the rest of the Seekers with you?”

“The last thing I can recall was being in the forest,” Dar answers. “We were escorting other refugees home from the ruins where we fought the green dragon. We had parted company with Cereld at that point, but agreed to meet back at Gateway. We were attacked… That’s the last thing I remember.”

Araduin agrees with this explanation. “And now we are here. How long has it been?”


While Baron Validar is speaking to the four men, the others are moving on. Sir Acerion goes into the room the men came from. Serena follows behind him while Gorso keeps an eye on them from the hallway.

The door enters into a vast chamber. Near the entry way are several bed rolls where the four men slept and stored their gear.

Further back beyond that are dozens of large cooking vats have been placed. Only a few of them are being used right now and over a dozen people shuffle among them. The people, men, women, even a few children, are all dressed in tattered, darkly stained rags. Ringing the sides of the chamber are storage bins filled with hundreds of pounds of a large, strawberry-like fruit.

In one area the children and two of the women are slowly stamping these fist-sized fruits with their feet in an elevated bin. The juice flows out the bottom of the bin and into pails. These pails are then transferred into the cooking vats were other ingredients are added. A sweet, fruity aroma fills the chamber. It is almost intoxicating.

The workers move about in almost zombie-like fashion. Their stare is vacant and their carry no weapons with them. They continue their work without paying any attention to the new arrivals.


Back out in the hallway, the others move towards the door the golems were guarding. Predictably they find it to be locked. Drakkimor calls Gorso over to break the door down.


Hit Points:

Sir Acerion - 41 of 57
Crysania - 66 of 84
Oran - 92 of 102

Now what?

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

Seeing Sir Acerion healing his wounds, Serena steps closer and says. “Let me know if you need additional healing, Sir Acerion.”

Still feeling his wounds, although they much more bearable now, Acerion turns to Serena, "A bit of minor healing would be most appreciated Serena. It would seem those Golems really despised devout followers of Heironeous."

"Of course it makes sense," Acerion continues, "but I've just never encountered constructs that targeted out one type of enemy predominantly over another."

Serena will follow Sir Acerion as he moves through the door the four men came from. She’ll give the knight plenty of room just in case another combat breaks out.

In one area the children and two of the women are slowly stamping these fist-sized fruits with their feet in an elevated bin. The juice flows out the bottom of the bin and into pails. These pails are then transferred into the cooking vats were other ingredients are added. A sweet, fruity aroma fills the chamber. It is almost intoxicating.

The workers move about in almost zombie-like fashion. Their stare is vacant and their carry no weapons with them. They continue their work without paying any attention to the new arrivals.

"Look at that," Acerion says quietly to Serena with a nod in the direction of the women and children. "I can not help but wonder if that fruit is not keeping them under thrall in addition to providing sustanence."

Acerion will motion to Validar, meeting him back at the doorway. Quickly, pointing out what he saw, "I do not think we can rescue them at this point. I would not wish to leave them behind though, and am further concerned we may not have the opportunity when we depart from here."

"I do not know if we can free them as easily as your friends, although I would wager it to be so," Acerion continues. "Still we could probably not count on them to be quiet and easily cooperative considering what they have undoubtably been through."

Acerion's dilema is easy enough to read, even under his helm. The paladin knows they would be thrown into more danger trying to protect them while fighting through the temple. However, Acerion can not simply walk away from this either.

[Serena]

Serena:

Still feeling his wounds, although they much more bearable now, Acerion turns to Serena, "A bit of minor healing would be most appreciated Serena. It would seem those Golems really despised devout followers of Heironeous."

"Of course it makes sense," Acerion continues, "but I've just never encountered constructs that targeted out one type of enemy predominantly over another."

“Healing you shall have, Sir Acerion.” Serena will convert her Burning Hands spell into a Cure Light Wounds and heal Sir Acerion’s wounds.

“While I am unfamiliar with the Slugs' Battle Golems the enmity between your faiths is well documented. There are many varieties of magical constructs in the world. The Alphatians, for instance, have numerous types of golems beyond the ones you are most familiar with.”


As we move into the chamber, it is clear that this is some sort of brewing area. Whatever the liquid that is being made, it cannot be for any good purpose considering our location. Seemingly entranced workers shuffle back and forth in their labors. The large strawberry-like fruit does attract Serena’s attention, as does the odor in the air.

"Look at that," Acerion says quietly to Serena with a nod in the direction of the women and children. "I can not help but wonder if that fruit is not keeping them under thrall in addition to providing sustenance."

“We cannot linger here!”, Serena says decisively. “Those fruits are known as zonga fruits and they are very dangerous!”

Once back at the door with Baron Validar, Serena will explain further.

“The zonga fruit is highly addictive and the bane of mages in Alphatia. It tastes delicious, but numbs the mind and body for days at a time. The more intelligent the person consuming the fruit, the more intense the reaction to the fruit is. The need to consume more of the fruit becomes an obsession. If the slugs are using zonga fruits as an ingredient to some sort of potion, then no good can come from it. Perhaps that’s how they were able to control your comrades. A potion that numbs the mind and makes the victim easy to control. A monstrous perversion of the Lady's gifts! This potion-creating facility must be destroyed!”

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

The other two men introduce themselves. "Welcome Alazar and Vance. We are not here on a treasure collecting expedition, but if all goes well, we will be able to sack this temple."

"As for you, Araduin and Dar Thaltus, I would understand if you are confused. We could certainly use your assistance, should you feel inclined. What do you last remember?"

“We made an oath to destroy these villains, Validar,” Dar states. “I do not go back on my word.”

“Since we are already here we might as well finish the job.” Araduin answers. “Are the rest of the Seekers with you?”

"Alas, the other Seekers are not here, except for our friend Blod," Validar says, indicating the large warrior. "Some months ago, I was called back to Pyris on some official business of the barony. The matter has escalated and we have seen a plot to turn western Cynalon into turmoil. My new group, the Guardians of Light, have been engaged in thwarting these enemies, both internal and external."

"The trail of evil has lead us here to put a stop to the vile sacrifice these slugs seek to perform. The leaders of the Duchy of Corunglain and perhaps others are amongst the intended victims. More importantly, we hold the chance to severely damage and hamper the efforts of the slugs everywhere by crushing their main temple and killing their leaders. It shall not be an easy battle, but we must take as many of them down as possible. Your assistance is greatly appreciated."

“The last thing I can recall was being in the forest,” Dar answers. “We were escorting other refugees home from the ruins where we fought the green dragon. We had parted company with Cereld at that point, but agreed to meet back at Gateway. We were attacked… That’s the last thing I remember.”

Araduin agrees with this explanation. “And now we are here. How long has it been?”

"It seems the Slugs were looking for revenge for the Seekers' victory. I doubt a simple ambush would have been effective in defeating you." Validar thinks back to the Battle for Gateway. "The two of you and Cereld left at the end of June. You missed the weddings of Blod and Zynara as well as Stephanie and Finrod. It is now December," Validar states, letting the weight of the passage of time sink in a bit. "It seems you have been 'gone' for some time."


As the men talk, Sir Acerion and the Inquisitor Serena go to explore the room where Dar Thaltus, Araduin and the other men came from. A few moments later, Validar sees Acerion getting his attention.

Acerion will motion to Validar, meeting him back at the doorway. Quickly, pointing out what he saw, "I do not think we can rescue them at this point. I would not wish to leave them behind though, and am further concerned we may not have the opportunity when we depart from here."

"I do not know if we can free them as easily as your friends, although I would wager it to be so," Acerion continues. "Still we could probably not count on them to be quiet and easily cooperative considering what they have undoubtably been through."

"That may be true, in both cases. I would also be concerned that we would not be able to help them if we move on from here without completing that task first. We are not far from the entrance and there is little danger with the bulk of the Slugs at their vile ritual."

Once back at the door with Baron Validar, Serena will explain further.

“The zonga fruit is highly addictive and the bane of mages in Alphatia. It tastes delicious, but numbs the mind and body for days at a time. The more intelligent the person consuming the fruit, the more intense the reaction to the fruit is. The need to consume more of the fruit becomes an obsession. If the slugs are using zonga fruits as an ingredient to some sort of potion, then no good can come from it. Perhaps that’s how they were able to control your comrades. A potion that numbs the mind and makes the victim easy to control. A monstrous perversion of the Lady's gifts! This potion-creating facility must be destroyed!”

"It seems the Hextorite slugs are quite fond of using mind-altering potions to do their work. They did the same at Gateway when they attempted to capture it earlier. The Black Water used in western Cynalon and now this zonga fruit here. I agree that we must destroy this facility." Validar looks over to Sir Alon and the others and sees that their attention is consumed at the door with the red glow.

"Let us move quickly, while the others open that door. The seven of us can quickly do what we need and everyone cannot get through that other door at once anyway. Hold your breath if you must, let us round up the people and destroy the area."

Validar will head in and try to grab as many of the women and children as possible, while doing his best to hold his breath. With his powerful constitution he may not be as affected by it, but no reason to take chances.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:


Beneath the main Hextor Temple in New Keln the Battle Golems have been defeated, but a disturbing room has been found.

"Alas, the other Seekers are not here, except for our friend Blod," Validar says, indicating the large warrior. "Some months ago, I was called back to Pyris on some official business of the barony. The matter has escalated and we have seen a plot to turn western Cynalon into turmoil. My new group, the Guardians of Light, have been engaged in thwarting these enemies, both internal and external."

"The trail of evil has led us here to put a stop to the vile sacrifice these slugs seek to perform. The leaders of the Duchy of Corunglain and perhaps others are amongst the intended victims. More importantly, we hold the chance to severely damage and hamper the efforts of the slugs everywhere by crushing their main temple and killing their leaders. It shall not be an easy battle, but we must take as many of them down as possible. Your assistance is greatly appreciated."

"It seems the Slugs were looking for revenge for the Seekers' victory. I doubt a simple ambush would have been effective in defeating you." Validar thinks back to the Battle for Gateway. "The two of you and Cereld left at the end of June. You missed the weddings of Blod and Zynara as well as Stephanie and Finrod. It is now December," Validar states, letting the weight of the passage of time sink in a bit. "It seems you have been 'gone' for some time."

Blod lifts his helm and calls out, “Hello!” when indicated by Baron Validar.

The full weight of what they missed and just how long they were being controlled begins to set in on the two elves.

“It seems that we have missed much,” Dar states rhetorically.

“But only a few blinks of an eye to an elf,” Araduin adds. “Regardless, there must be a reckoning for this transgression.”

“Aye that there shall be,” Dar agrees. “We can now stab at the heart of the beast from inside its very belly!”

The other two men introduce themselves. "Welcome Alazar and Vance. We are not here on a treasure collecting expedition, but if all goes well, we will be able to sack this temple."

Alazar does not seem all that concerned about collecting treasure. Vengeance burns brightly in his eyes, while Vance does seem a bit disappointed.

[GM Mad]

Moving on to Sir Acerion and Serena, Baron Validar is brought up to date with their findings. As they prepare to move out, Sir Alon and Lord Sharadin steps up to them and is quickly brought up to date. In the background, the others struggle to break down the other door.

“I must agree with Sir Acerion,” Sir Alon states. “These people need to be rescued but that in itself does present a whole new set of problems. If all goes according to plan, then our exit is with the others and we need to meet them down in the Hellpit. Therefore it seems that we must bring them along so that we can quickly exit when we rescue the Duke and the other prisoners. The further away the are from us when we leave, the more likely it is they will be left behind.”

“This must be their main potion brewing area,” Lord Sharadin surmises. “Not only was this brew used on Gateway, but on the nobility in Corunglain during Ember’s attack on them. But now it seems that they’ve modified the potion to not only numb the mind, but make it easy to control as well! Best to destroy this place before these potions can be used against us!”


The heroes move in to rescue those who are entranced to work on creating more of the potions. The workers do not resist when they are grabbed and carried off. After only a few moments, Lord Sharadin is beginning to feel lightheaded and is forced to depart the chamber, joined quickly by Araduin. About a minute later Sir Acerion also feels funny and is force to withdraw. Everyone else can make it through the rescue without incident, although most will feel some effect from the smell of the fruits. Only Blod comes through without any ill feelings.

Dar, Araduin, Alazar, and Vance also go in and remove any of their belongings.


Once everyone is safely out in the corridor, Lord Sharadin directs everyone to stand back. “I’ll handle this task.”

Standing in the doorway, Lord Sharadin casts a spell. In response to it, a thick cloud begins to form on the chamber’s ceiling. A heartbeat after that, it begins to rain. But this is not ordinary rain. As the liquid lands on the ground, on the fruit and on the brewing vats, they begin to melt!

“This acid rain will destroy all trace of this operation,” Lord Sharadin states. “Nothing will survive.”

He closes the door.

[GM Mad]

Elsewhere, the door to the other chamber finally gives. The massive portal falls to the floor with a loud thud. The chamber is revealed to all. The room is as large as the one across the hall, but its contents are very different. All eyes are drawn to the center of the room.

There, a massive fire pit burns. It easily fills half the room. Smoke wafts upwards and vanishes up ventilation shafts in the ceiling. But what is most remarkable is what lies on top of the fire pit: a gigantic egg!

Inside the great translucent egg, you can make out a red-hued reptilian form. The creature is curled up inside the egg and you can’t help but wonder when it will hatch.

The color in Lord Sharadin’s face vanishes as he stares at the egg. One word comes to his lips…

“Ember.”


Hit Points:

Sir Acerion - 47 of 57
Crysania - 72 of 84
Oran - 92 of 102

Now what?

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Blod lifts his helm and calls out, “Hello!” when indicated by Baron Validar.

Validar cannot help but smile briefly at the simpleness of his warrior-friend, Blod. Despite his short-comings, he is a good man.

The full weight of what they missed and just how long they were being controlled begins to set in on the two elves.

“It seems that we have missed much,” Dar states rhetorically.

“But only a few blinks of an eye to an elf,” Araduin adds. “Regardless, there must be a reckoning for this transgression.”

“Aye that there shall be,” Dar agrees. “We can now stab at the heart of the beast from inside its very belly!”

"Indeed. There is no better place for retribution than where you find yourselves now. Clearly we have a chance to strike at the heart of the Slugs. We can deliver a telling blow that might turn the war in our favor decisively. This is a moment that history may speak about forever," Baron Validar excalims.


Moving on to Sir Acerion and Serena, Baron Validar is brought up to date with their findings. As they prepare to move out, Sir Alon and Lord Sharadin steps up to them and is quickly brought up to date. In the background, the others struggle to break down the other door.

Sir Alon indicates that he wishes to bring these people along with us. That will certainly slow us down and make us more vulnerable. Lord Sharadin adds that this potion seems to be the same one, although possibly modified, that was used on Gateway and also in Corunglain. Certainly this operation needs to be destroyed.

"Sir Alon," Validar speaks up, "Taking these people with us will not only slow us down, but also risk our attack's effectiveness. I do agree that they must be rescued, however, might there be some other option now? When we took the refugees at Corunglain into the Gatehouse, there was a place to secure them. Here we have a running battle, that is not condusive to moving large groups of civilians about. We must choose between rescuing these people for certain and doing the most damage to the enemy. If we had the Stone Cube with us, then we could have them enter now, but that does not seem to be an option."

"Lord Sharadin? Are there any other magickal options to get these people out of here quickly? Perhaps we should consider teleporting them away, before we get to the main battle?"

The group goes in and starts to collect the people making the horrible mind-numbing potion. The process is quite easy as they do not resist. Some of the others begin to drop out and Validar starts to feel sick to his stomach from the oppressive sickeningly sweet smell that permeates the room. Quickly the task is done however, then Lord Sharadin steps up to finish the task.

Once everyone is safely out in the corridor, Lord Sharadin directs everyone to stand back. “I’ll handle this task.”

Standing in the doorway, Lord Sharadin casts a spell. In response to it, a thick cloud begins to form on the chamber’s ceiling. A heartbeat after that, it begins to rain. But this is not ordinary rain. As the liquid lands on the ground, on the fruit and on the brewing vats, they begin to melt!

“This acid rain will destroy all trace of this operation,” Lord Sharadin states. “Nothing will survive.”

He closes the door.

As this is completed, the others have managed to open the door to the other room with the unearthly red glow coming from it.

Validar steps into the room, sword drawn, and takes in the view. The heat is strong, as is the smell of smoke. There on the firepit sits a gigantic egg and Validar feels a tingle on the back of his neck. "This is not good," he says quietly to himself.

Inside the great translucent egg, you can make out a red-hued reptilian form. The creature is curled up inside the egg and you can’t help but wonder when it will hatch.

The color in Lord Sharadin’s face vanishes as he stares at the egg. One word comes to his lips…

“Ember.”

Clearly, the dragon is not a baby and will be full-size when it opens. Ember seems to have compensated for his death in some way.

"We must destroy it!" Validar says forcefully. "This task may be more important than rescuing the Duke and his family. If Ember is born again, it will be the death of many good Cynalonians. Hit it with magick and with weapons!" Validar will wait until the mages have had time to cast spells and then will move forward to see if he can get close enough to strike with his sword.

[Serena]

Serena:

The heroes move in to rescue those who are entranced to work on creating more of the potions. The workers do not resist when they are grabbed and carried off. After only a few moments, Lord Sharadin is beginning to feel lightheaded and is forced to depart the chamber, joined quickly by Araduin. About a minute later Sir Acerion also feels funny and is force to withdraw. Everyone else can make it through the rescue without incident, although most will feel some effect from the smell of the fruits. Only Blod comes through without any ill feelings.

Serena manages to endure the sickly sweet smell that fills the room. She says a silent pray to Mystra for surviving this ordeal. The effects of the zonga fruit quickly take their toll. It’s no surprise that Lord Sharadin is the first to feel its effects, as Serena is confident that he is the most intelligent of those present. The elfin mage, Araduin, is the next to withdraw. Serena is mildly surprised that Sir Acerion is the next to feel the effects, but does not comment on it. Conversely, it comes as no surprise that the large warrior known as Blod is seemingly unaffected.

Once everyone is safely out in the corridor, Lord Sharadin directs everyone to stand back. “I’ll handle this task.”

Standing in the doorway, Lord Sharadin casts a spell. In response to it, a thick cloud begins to form on the chamber’s ceiling. A heartbeat after that, it begins to rain. But this is not ordinary rain. As the liquid lands on the ground, on the fruit and on the brewing vats, they begin to melt!

“This acid rain will destroy all trace of this operation,” Lord Sharadin states. “Nothing will survive.”

Serena nods in agreement. She is also confident that nothing will survive the acid bath. This foul perversion has been dealt with.


Action at the other door attracts Serena’s attention. Something familiar, and yet most unexpected has been discovered.

The color in Lord Sharadin’s face vanishes as he stares at the egg. One word comes to his lips…

“Ember.”

"We must destroy it!" Validar says forcefully. "This task may be more important than rescuing the Duke and his family. If Ember is born again, it will be the death of many good Cynalonians. Hit it with magic and with weapons!" Validar will wait until the mages have had time to cast spells and then will move forward to see if he can get close enough to strike with his sword.

“Who is this Ember?” Serena asks, but she does not expect an answer right away as the move to destroy the egg comes. “If this dragon is as old as it appears, then it should be highly resistant to magic. In my opinion save your spells and use weapons to destroy him.

Confident in the skills of the warriors around her, Serena will stand back and allow them to use their weapons.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

"Sir Alon," Validar speaks up, "Taking these people with us will not only slow us down, but also risk our attack's effectiveness. I do agree that they must be rescued, however, might there be some other option now? When we took the refugees at Corunglain into the Gatehouse, there was a place to secure them. Here we have a running battle that is not conducive to moving large groups of civilians about. We must choose between rescuing these people for certain and doing the most damage to the enemy. If we had the Stone Cube with us, then we could have them enter now, but that does not seem to be an option."

“Our options are very limited, Baron Validar”, Sir Alon responds. “We cannot send them out of the temple as that would put them in New Keln, the very heart of enemy territory. They would simply be recaptured or worse. Leaving them behind with plans to return later is not a sure thing. We may not be able to return for them.”

“We cannot expend any magic to take them from here at this point as such spells may be needed to take us from this horrid place. Our priorities must remain unchanged, in spite of finding these unfortunates. We must rescue the Duke and those with him and ensure that our King, his future Queen, our kingdom’s most important mages, and the other nobles are returned home. Given your status, you must also be taken away before we can consider expending spells to save even myself and those we have just rescued. I wish to save these people too, but the reality of the situation is that we may not be able to do so and I would be violating my oath to the Crown if I took them away while others of higher station remained behind.”

“As I see it, our only viable option is to have them follow us. I agree that they cannot be near while we are engaged in battle. Perhaps the four men you rescued could guide these people up behind us. Follow us from a safe distance and simply stay near so that when the time does come to depart they can be taken away in the cube. I see no other choice in this situation.”

"Lord Sharadin? Are there any other magickal options to get these people out of here quickly? Perhaps we should consider teleporting them away, before we get to the main battle?"

“There are too many for me to remove with a single spell. It would take multiple spells and then I would have to expend more spells to return. If only we had the Stone Cube with us, then this would not be an issue. I think we should do as Sir Alon suggests. We might be fortunate enough to find the others before engaging in the main battle. Then we can just put them in the cube and continue on with our mission.”

[GM Mad]

The secret of the room the Battle Golems were guarding has been revealed! Inside a giant egg, the great dragon Ember is growing! When the egg hatches the dragon will be a full adult!

"We must destroy it!" Validar says forcefully. "This task may be more important than rescuing the Duke and his family. If Ember is born again, it will be the death of many good Cynalonians. Hit it with magick and with weapons!" Validar will wait until the mages have had time to cast spells and then will move forward to see if he can get close enough to strike with his sword.

“Who is this Ember?” Serena asks, but she does not expect an answer right away as the move to destroy the egg comes. “If this dragon is as old as it appears, then it should be highly resistant to magic. In my opinion save your spells and use weapons to destroy him.

“Ember is an enemy of the kingdom. A rare red dragon who dabbles in magic as easily as I do,” Lord Sharadin answers. “Curse me for a novice! It was right before me the whole time! It was in the spell books that we took from Opikus’ lair.”

Stepping up, Lord Sharadin turns to face the adventurers. “What lies before us is a Clone of Ember. It is a very powerful mage spell where the caster can create a duplicate of himself using his own flesh. Ember must have created this clone many months ago, perhaps even a year or more as it takes a long time to grow. The Clone will have all the memories that Ember had at the time the flesh sample was removed, so he is unaware that the first Ember, assuming the one we fought wasn’t a clone either, has perished.”

“In his paranoia, Ember must have secreted away clones to continue his work upon his demise. I can only assume that this is not the only clone out there. There may be others secreted away in hidden places. It appears that the misery perpetuated by this creature is not at an end. Regardless, we must destroy this egg before it can hatch.”


By mutual agreement, the rescuers move forward and attack. The blaze of the firepit does hinder the efforts. Those with ranged attacks or who have protection from fire are unaffected. It takes a few minutes, but the egg is breached and the growing dragon inside slain. The Ember Clone was never conscious and did not fight back.

In the aftermath of the fight, several things of interest are noted. Secured in a chest are several mage-centric magic items and spell books.

“For use by Ember once he hatched,” Lord Sharadin surmises. “Magic items and books to learn spells from.”

“At least we’ve found some treasure,” Drakkimor says excitedly. “A fine reward!”

Lord Sharadin simply dumps the contents into a Bag of Holding for later examination.


In addition to that, way in the back of the room is a very large grate, some ten feet in diameter. Looking past the bars, you can see a shaft going straight down and wisps of smoke rise up from it. The shaft continues down for about forty feet before opening up into a much larger chamber. The wall of this lower chamber cannot be seen, but the floor is roughly ninety feet below. All that you can make out on the floor is a vast pit of fire.

“Could this be the Hellpit Lady Silvarn spoke of,” Sir Alon wonders aloud. “The very chamber we seek might lay below our feet!”

Now what?

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

“Our options are very limited, Baron Validar”, Sir Alon responds. “We cannot send them out of the temple as that would put them in New Keln, the very heart of enemy territory. They would simply be recaptured or worse. Leaving them behind with plans to return later is not a sure thing. We may not be able to return for them.”

Sir Alon mirrors exactly what Acerion was thinking. Merely leading them to the temple enterance would be easy enough, but they are deep within enemy territory and under the effects of the fruit. That would just lead to their untimely deaths or recapture and use as slaves once more. Acerion sees no further need to comment however, since the point has been made.

“As I see it, our only viable option is to have them follow us. I agree that they cannot be near while we are engaged in battle. Perhaps the four men you rescued could guide these people up behind us. Follow us from a safe distance and simply stay near so that when the time does come to depart they can be taken away in the cube. I see no other choice in this situation.”

"That might be the best in the possibilities of less-than-perfect situations," Acerion adds. "You know two of those men personally," Acerion says to Validar, "and I would believe they would be most helpful in this."

The heroes move in to rescue those who are entranced to work on creating more of the potions. The workers do not resist when they are grabbed and carried off. After only a few moments, Lord Sharadin is beginning to feel lightheaded and is forced to depart the chamber, joined quickly by Araduin. About a minute later Sir Acerion also feels funny and is force to withdraw. Everyone else can make it through the rescue without incident, although most will feel some effect from the smell of the fruits. Only Blod comes through without any ill feelings.

Acerion works against time to rescue as many as he can. Thankfully they don't resist, but very soon Acerion doesn't feel very well. He backs off from the room into somewhat clearer air. The remaining members do get the rest free and Lord Sharadin works his magics to destroy everything within the room.

"We must destroy it!" Validar says forcefully. "This task may be more important than rescuing the Duke and his family. If Ember is born again, it will be the death of many good Cynalonians. Hit it with magic and with weapons!" Validar will wait until the mages have had time to cast spells and then will move forward to see if he can get close enough to strike with his sword.

“Who is this Ember?” Serena asks, but she does not expect an answer right away as the move to destroy the egg comes. “If this dragon is as old as it appears, then it should be highly resistant to magic. In my opinion save your spells and use weapons to destroy him.

“In his paranoia, Ember must have secreted away clones to continue his work upon his demise. I can only assume that this is not the only clone out there. There may be others secreted away in hidden places. It appears that the misery perpetuated by this creature is not at an end. Regardless, we must destroy this egg before it can hatch.”


Acerion doesn't need to hear anymore, and grips his axe, moving forward to destroy the egg, and hopefully the clone of Ember as well. The heat is horrendous, but Acerion steels himself against it and swings with all his might. One blow after another lands, along with those around him, and soon the dragon is no more.

Acerion leans against a wall, removing helm and gauntlets to cool himself down. Wiping sweat from his brow, he hears a new revelation. First is the words of some treasures being found, of such Acerion has little interest. Secondly, however, comes something much more important.

“Could this be the Hellpit Lady Silvarn spoke of,” Sir Alon wonders aloud. “The very chamber we seek might lay below our feet!”

Putting back on his gauntlets but not yet his helm, Acerion rejoins the others. Looking down the shaft, he asks, "Do we have a way to easily descend this, or must we seek another way down?"

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

With the rescued civilians now in their apparent charge, the question develops with just what to do with these people. It is not even obvious that they are Cynalonian citizens, but that does not seem to be an issue at the moment. Sir Alon makes his decision as Validar thought he might, being a very honorable knight. Validar is a bit surprised when Sir Alon mentions that he is of lesser importance than the new baron of Pyris. But he does not make mention of it, as there are much more important issues laying before them.

“As I see it, our only viable option is to have them follow us. I agree that they cannot be near while we are engaged in battle. Perhaps the four men you rescued could guide these people up behind us. Follow us from a safe distance and simply stay near so that when the time does come to depart they can be taken away in the cube. I see no other choice in this situation.”

"That might be the best in the possibilities of less-than-perfect situations," Acerion adds. "You know two of those men personally," Acerion says to Validar, "and I would believe they would be most helpful in this."

"I only hope it does not cause us to miss an opportunity to strike at the enemy, but given the circumstances, I can see no other options."

Lord Sharadin adds that he has no magick available with which to shelter or move these people.

"Hopefully we can meet up with the others and transport them out that way. In any case, I will approach Araduin and Dar Thaltus with this request."

Validar will move quickly to the elves' sides and ask them for their assistance. "My fellow Seekers, we have a need for these people to be escorted to follow the main group out of here. As that leads us into direct conflict with likely the entirety of the Hextor forces in this area, it is a dangerous trek. If you were to follow at a short distance, you could possible assist us with ranged attacks and spells, as well as secure our rear as we advance. I would be in your debt if you both could see to this task."

With the people rescued and the door to the other room breached, Validar sees what is causing the red glow that emanated from the room. It is the attempted rebirth of Ember.

Validar shouts out brief directions as a matter of course. He limits himself when he realizes that he is not in fact in charge of this group with Sir Alon present.

Lord Sharadin explains this must be a clone and perhaps not the only one, and Validar realizes that this great victory they had against Ember may be hollow and empty indeed. With a snarl of anger, Validar leaps at the gigantic egg, striking at it with all his strength and using his Boots ability moving back away between each strike in order to lessen the damage from the fire.

In moments, the egg itself is breached and several swords find their mark on the beast inside. A sickly reddish-yellow fluid runs about the egg and steams in the fire, but this version of Ember will harm no one.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

“In his paranoia, Ember must have secreted away clones to continue his work upon his demise. I can only assume that this is not the only clone out there. There may be others secreted away in hidden places. It appears that the misery perpetuated by this creature is not at an end. Regardless, we must destroy this egg before it can hatch.”

This information filters through Baron Validar's mind, as he hacks into the Dragon egg and the creature inside. If Ember ever were to become aware of the fact he were killed previously, it would be extremely dangerous for those who opposed him. It is not long before this clone is destroyed.

In the aftermath of the fight, several things of interest are noted. Secured in a chest are several mage-centric magic items and spell books.

In addition to that, way in the back of the room is a very large grate, some ten feet in diameter. Looking past the bars, you can see a shaft going straight down and wisps of smoke rise up from it. The shaft continues down for about forty feet before opening up into a much larger chamber. The wall of this lower chamber cannot be seen, but the floor is roughly ninety feet below. All that you can make out on the floor is a vast pit of fire.

“Could this be the Hellpit Lady Silvarn spoke of,” Sir Alon wonders aloud. “The very chamber we seek might lay below our feet!”

After dealing with the rescued people and the clone of Ember, the group comes upon a new discovery.

Putting back on his gauntlets but not yet his helm, Acerion rejoins the others. Looking down the shaft, he asks, "Do we have a way to easily descend this, or must we seek another way down?"

"I thought the entire level was called the Hellpit," Validar responds, recalling the briefing they had while in Pyris. "If such is the case, this grate may be a quick way down to where we need to be and it may be a route to nothing more than a fiery death. Perhaps we should explore the possibilities magickally first, while we continue to look for other means of descent." The hallway continued on outside. While all this is being discussed, the Baron will see how far he can see down the hall and what other options there may be for moving on.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed