Chapter Seven: Homecoming - Session 49 - Unholy trinity part 2 of 3

Heroes
Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki
Jarod - Jacek
Ren Howl - Adrian
Steven - Leon

NPC
Heroes' families
Khan and Chacri
Straw God's emanation


As it turned out, homecoming was the hardest part of all adventures. Ren and Connal had fought with dragons and demons, braved ancient past and explored flying islands, they ventured deep into Underdark and far to the North, but were nervous coming home. What will parents say? Is Aplleshade the same village they left?

Luckily there was no signs of destruction, not counting strange burned structure on nearby hill. Old neighbors recognized and rejoiced at their return. Parents welcomed them with an open arms. Everybody was keen to hear what had happened to them and where they had spent all those years. It was Jarod and Steven who first noticed little details that escaped sons of Aplleshade's attention.

There were a lot of crows and birds everywhere. The seemed to watch and follow people. Something strange was carried on in countryside, what Jarod discovered. Something alike to  pilgrimage or wandering camp was formed and under guidance of some elders all the children were moving to Stepple Falls. When Connal and Ren asked certain questions, the were hushed. Local patrons left tavern before sunset. When darkness fell some tongues were loosed.

It wasn't that all good and beauty in Appleshade. Abundant wheat were bought at cost of sacrifices to Straw God. Although good folk bowed before him, the were ashamed of practice and did what the could to avoid his harsh and demanding commandments. At early spring the smuggled children put and gave to the god an animal. At autumn they burned criminal in Wicker Man. Heroes learned that birds spied on behalf of Straw God and that animals avoided an old house near village's perimeter.

Entering Khan's house was difficult but eventually Jarod defeated locks and traps. An old man wasn't an old anymore. He and Chackri greeted them heroes in their true, human and tiger-like forms. Khan excused and explained he could not reveal his true colors, as he was in little and petty conflict with others like him. He chose Apllesahde as a place to wait out but one of his enemies, was after him. But heroes dealt wit that problem log ago. while he was indifferent about happenings on island, as a small fraction of paying a debt he revealed how and where to find Straw God. Both parties split in good relations.

Armed with a knowledge, heroes moved against a Straw God. The traveled through fertile fields, deep into something was collective consciousness of agriculture. Straw God was nothing more and less than wide gap, filled with garbage. In it's maw dead animals, rotting wheat, leaves and roots were boiling. This mass erupted and took form of a roughly humanoid monster that without thought attacked, smashing fists and slamming blows. Whole party engaged it with Ren taking leading role and Connal casting spells. With Jarod and Steven's abilities, heroes deposed demi deity as many other demonic or angelic monsters before...

Chapter Seven: Homecoming - Session 48 - Unholy trinity part 1 of 3

Heroes
Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki
Jarod - Jacek
Ren Howl - Adrian
Steven - Leon

NPC
Bartender - and former knight of Helm
Druj - an ogre millman and resistance champion
Hieronymus - a druid

Heroes chose Cloister of Healing dove ruins as a place of return. The hid cylinder in a one of a traps and set out to investigate state of things. Bartender the had spoken years before revealed that Averwest had fallen on hard times. Soon after party's venture into catacombs,  plaque eaten crops and famine began. Chauntea's priest were unable to stop it and soon people turned to older cults, that provided healthy wheat. Winters became harsh and harsher, trade faded and internal struggles began. Some villages like Lakhell had been lucky and disappeared from peoples minds, other fell victim of raids. Soon civil war raged on, warred between princedoms, cities even neighbors. Forests became dark and brooding, populated with vicious animals and beasts.

After years of turmoil, thee powers emerged: straw God situated in the center of island. Consisting verdant lands, including Appleshade, it paid homage to lord of fields, scarecrow, pagan deity of vicious agriculture. South and west was under rule of Bane'church. It's priests came with amnish traders, soon eradicated them and installed iron fist tyranny. North fell under influence of Dominator, mysterious figure hailing from over the mountains and forsaken land there. He claimed right to rule Averwest in name of it's salvation.

Heroes decided it is time to act. Knowing that spellcasting is forbidden and somehow detectable, they took their chances and next day teleported to Konarch and hid cylinder next to portal, leading to Icewind Dale. After inspecting state of affairs there, the were downtrodden. An old and crazy druid was presumably dead, his circle devastated. Legats, the emissaries of Dominator, ruled village with fear and terror, everybody was suspicious of each other. Knowing that cylinder of Nether was as beacon of light in darkness, heroes decided to strike home and re write laws of Averwest's magic. Whole process took a week during which Steven studied arcane texts and altered them with Connal's help, while Jarod and Ren stood vigilantly on guard. Finally day had come and inscriptions were ready, cylinder of Nether was spun one more time and Wave around island shook violently. It's laws of magic was altered and disconnected from Mystra's essence. Heroes sank Cylinder deep in stone and caved-in passage. Then they teleported to Tristor, to finally go home.

Outside of town the paid visit to Druj, an ogre they saved fifteen years ago. He revealed that hard times had befallen on those, who live under Bane's rule but he was able to play both sides. At glance he was millman that co-operated with rules, but secretly he kept stash of food to help villagers survive cold of winter. He gave heroes shelter and food, and before sunrise party moved on, crossing borders of Straw God's dominion.

Land was indeed verdant, each field guarded by scarecrows and huge mulches. There were dark and brooding atmosphere around them, like abundant crops were paid with terrible price. Guardians' eyes seemed to follow heroes, so at first opportunity the stepped into shelter of Hyreonymus' Groove. Soon the made a camp and when fire was lit, a figure appeared. It was a stag, big and bold, that for some reason seemed like one, the had freed from trap years ago...

It was an old druid himself. He allowed heroes to camp in his woods in times of need, revealing it was one of the rare places free from blight of monsters of darkness. He proved true bartender's and Drujs' story but wasn't able to tell what has happened outside of his groove. So heroes slept under canopy of leaves and prepared themselves to homecoming.

Chapter Seven: Homecoming - Session 47 - Godess of Magic

Heroes
Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki
Jarod - Jacek
Ren Howl - Adrian
Steven - Leon

NPC
The Friend
Helena the Witch
Rumbur, shy giant
Madame Eva, gypsy seer


Session began with heroes gathering information. they contacted with Reiner but he was nowhere to be found. Connal reached his brother who surprisingly told him to "not to listen to gossips". Suspicious and unsure, heroes climbed down to Cedarspoke.

City has been rebuilt, it's black tower replaced by magnificent fortress. While there was an discreet monument dedicated to restoration of dogas, almost no one remembered heroes who defeated fallen angel fifteen years ago. Heroes began to search temple of Mystra in hope priests will direct them to the Magister. cleric welcomed them warmly and listened to their story. He pointed at enchantress who lived in city. She seemed to be favored by goddess of magic but was rarely seen. Her apartment was at "Stars and stones Inn", famous for an luxury rooms  and discrecy.

Heroes checked in and began to search. Enchantress room was locked and secured with spells. Jarod contacted with The Friend, who now was called The Baroness but she was not able to help in breaking in or providing any new information. All in all heroes decided it's time to do something now.

At night party disabled traps and magical alarms and entered Enchantress room. It wasn't used in years, dusty and silent. Inside wardrobe however there was a portal, leading to glade with lamppost in the middle of it. Heroes took survey of surroundings and moved in direction of mountains. Soon they arrived at crossroads, where little goblin was sitting. He was murmuring to himself and very agitated. He explained he is watchman of goblin's Market. To see one heroes had to turn right five times but no merchant showed up. When asked for the Enchantress pointed mountains.

At the base of range heroes had found door, but it was magically closed. Golden stag explained the need magical ring to open it. Ring was in possession of large sheat-fish, that lived in lake. Party moved there and began to looking for it. Soon sheat-fish appeared and admitted he has ring and will gladly give it back to characters but for a price... There was a giant living nearby who was fishing on him. If giant was persuaded to stop, ring will be heroes'. So party moved to look for giant. He was called Rumbur, was nice and little shy bloke. He also had nice home in an old mine, greeted party warmly, offered his bread, butter and cheese. He complained on witch that took his magical pot of fish. If he got one back, he'd stop hunting sheat-fish. So heroes went on to find witch. She was living in swamps with her two young children. She admitted pot was in her possession, as her kids were growing and always hungry. Heroes arranged Rumbur to baby-sit them, so witch had some time to herself. All went back to Goblin Market, where Ren met once again gypsies. This time it was time to draw a card from a Madame Eva's Deck. It was a Chariot.

So, all company went back home, and finally heroes were granted an entrance to the enchatress' hideout. there they found her chambers, treasury and guardian, a colossal gold dragon. Great wyrm encircled her slowing time but gave pass to heroes. The stated their cause but the Enchantress or Mystra herself was indifferent. she said that what has to happen, will happen but gave some instructions to how to rescue Averwest.

Heroes hastily returned to Cedarspoke and teleported to Averwest in order to save their home!

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 46 - All the petty lies of Carlin the Grey part 3 of 3

Heroes
Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki
Jarod - Jacek
Ren Howl - Adrian
Steven - Leon

After two weeks spent on cleaning mess, healing wounded, arcanists' forces gathered on border Grey Haunt's domain border and War council began. Carlin the Lame or Archgod of Magic as he ordered to call himself took possession of Cylinder of Nether and with help of it woven his essence into system of magic. Lacking skills and intelligence he used raw power to achieve end other achieved with help of knowledge. Nevertheless, his domain was blight upon Netheril's face and it's existence threatened empire and magic. Iolaum concluded that if cylinder was removed, Grey Haunt will fail and peace will be restored.. Moreover, heroes could with help of it protect their home island. They suggested they could be able to save Mystra too.

War Council agreed that it was necessary to attack simultaneously: armies were ordered to march inside domain of Grey Haunt, while on border magic battle erupted. Meanwhile heroes were to sneak inside Carlin's hideout and to deal with cylinder of Nether. While flying to desert city, heroes witnessed with their eyes what Grey Haunt had created. Where they saw desert previously, there were green pastures and forests. Where dry land was, verdant landscapes erupted to existence. Ruined and bleak city was replaced by bursting and alive metropolis. Above it a huge colossus loomed, a mountain carved in shape of new god of magic - Carlin the Grey. Everywhere were signs of his propaganda, statues, sculptures, paintings. Ren recognised images of himself, Connal, Avelon and Kyril, all presented as treasonous, petty individuals, fruitlessly conspiring against benevolent Carlin.

While they were looking around, an army began to march out of city. It consisted legions of gnolls, orcs and desert barbarians. Cirles of yuan-ti slithered in their wake, huge bats flew above, all bent to destruction and dedicated to their master's cause. Bur he had chosen to remain hidden inside mountain.

Party moved to Grey Haunt's hideout. Doors they entered a monastery was reinforced and defended by potent trap. Jarod was struck by Death Spell but thanks to Connal's magic he survived. Uppermost room was stable. It was guarded by nightmare that attacked heroes on sight. It was defeated and they found chained unicorn, named Niriam. It warned heroes about two iron golems, that guarded throne room nearby. After defeating them, not so small task, heroes explored area: there were plenty of other rooms and staircase there. On the other side of Gates of Justice was a prison full f people and cliff to two them down. Other rooms consisted of bookkeeping chamber and foundry, where Moloch, a huge iron monstrosity was kept. Inside it's belly was huge oven, where many people died. Behind Moloch's chamber was a shrine dedicated t outer beings, but heroes kept out of it. Descending by staircase hidden in study, heroes discovered second prison, where hungry men were kept. Forced to endure horrors beyond imagination, they were slowly turned into ghoules. After dealing with them and searching rest of complex, heroes found a hiding chamber, where behind a band of wights Carlin covered.

Undead were no match for heroes. Quickly dispatched, they proved to be no guards for Carlin, who teleported himself to niche in vast, vertical tunnel. But he underestimated Ren, who jumped upon him and chocked his undead life out of him. But heroes realised, that Carlin, despite his lack of power, knowledge and intelligence, achieved semi lichedom. He used Gorma's body but where was his phylactery? Nervously heroes sorted options and remembered that during exploration, they had seen many objects of magic exhibited. One of them was crude magical ring, crafted by Carlin himself. Ren fetched it, while rest of party harnessed cylinder of Nether. When grouped again, they used scroll Iolaum gave them and triggered dispell of time conduit spell.

Whole party arrived in cave of fire. Heroes thrown Carlin's phylactery into fire, where it melted, destroying his spirit for ever, once and for all. When they got out of cave, found glade as empty, as before. In the Nroth snows must have fallen deep, but here, in the Vilhoon Reach air was warm and pleasant. Looking at stars, Ren knew it is few days after Midwinter. Next morning Connal contacted with Reiner, priest of Mysta, sent to Averwest. He replied with surprised: "Are you alive? Where have you been for last fifteen years??"

Behind a DM screen
- All heroes advanced one level up, Steven two.
- Lich's spells and statistics were based upon Carlin's.

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 45 - All the petty lies of Carlin the Grey part 2 of 3

Heroes
Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki
Jarod - Jacek
Ren Howl - Adrian
Steven - Leon

Heroes stepped once more into a portal. They chose to arrive in ruins of Al-Asif, one year after it's fall. What they found, were a ruins of once domain enclave. Party made camp among the devastated towers and walls. Surrounding country looked the same as they remembered it. While heroes prepared for night, Steven tried to reach Iolaum via magical crystal but instead found no one linked to it.It was definitely strange, but wizard concluded it could be connected to magical whirlpools or changes in time passage.

It was about midnight, during Connal's watch, when he saw something disturbing. All around lights and shades were creating. Transparent at first, they solidified and became more substantial. When he awoke rest of party, streets and houses were visible. Ghostly human figures moved around, carrying about their business. When party readied themselves, all around them was Al-Asif again, reliving it's last day of existence. Connal tried contact spectral humans, but was pierced by cold and grave chill. when heroes discussed, what should they do, Ren saw that Al-Asif inhabitants began to notice them. soon crowd gathered around and murmur spread, saying" It's them!" Heroes decided it is time to flee. Steven cast a teleport spell and transported whole group to village, where he spent some of his pastimes.

It turned out, village was small, clean, peaceful community. while heroes mad a big entrance, materialising inside inn, they were quickly accepted, served meals and rented rooms. After a full night rest heroes decided to contact Jamal and find out, how to meet Iolaum one more time. Arcanist has not responded immediately. Instead, next morning he sent heroes familiar looking box with scroll. It was spell of teleportation to fixed location. Alas, it has not worked as intended.

After completing the spell, heroes found themselves in dark cave. At first glance there were no exit but soon the found a passage, leading to much larger chamber. Flying familiar reported strange things: valley, fields of wheat, river in middle of cave, along with the village. Soon heroes found that land too. They speculated it could be an illusion or pocket plane but came to no conclusion. Instead they found village and it's inhabitants. All butchered without mercy. Connal ordered burial and for few hours heroes gathered dead bodies. When they finished task and were cleaning themselves, Jarod heard cries for help. From underneath pile of dead he rescued a girl. Stiff and scarred she was alive... at leas she looked like living being, until she tried to tear rouge's throat. Suddenly all of dead rose and attacked heroes.

It was first combat on such a scale. Connal was channelling positive energy time after time and Steven burned marching dead with area blasting spells. While Jarod and Ren fought single enemies, it was area effects that allowed heroes to defeat undead. When finished with wights, heroes moved on and found a corridor, leading up. There was a steamy, hot and humid air coming from it and soon the emerged in middle of... jungle. Travel through it was difficult but proved to be fruitful. In swamps heroes found tracks of village butchers. It was one big hove like of oversized bull. Before the had time to inspect it, whole party was attacked and swallowed by giant fly-trap. It's poisonous lashes stroke, flowers tried to devour heroes but once again magic and fists proved to be able to defeat even most inhuman monster. What more, inside of i's stalk was a half digested, winged Minotaur.

Soon heroes escaped from savage garden and found a gazebo with teleportation circle. It was place the were meant to arrive but for some reasons spell had malfunctioned. Reaching gazebo was not a finish of adventure. In halls of place above it a viscous battle raged. Human screams mixed with bull-like bellowing. Waves of magical energies engulfed a crystal dome above great hall. At first heroes dealt with blood-mad Minotaurs. They were brutal adversaries but spells and arms felled them one by one. After dispatching three of ravening monsters, heroes moved upward and soon arrived on balcony.

Upon a platform a raven-haired man with beard, fought a hard fight using waves of magic in way, no hero except of Steven has witnessed. It was magic in Netheril's Arcanist way and it's target was flying warship. contrary to "Sky Mill" it used balloons and sails to raise into air. Before heroes had chance to join combat, it was struck down and cast out of heavens.

Meeting with mysterious wizard had place after mess was cleaned and wounded treated. To heroes (and players!) surprise he introduced himself as Iolaum, tutor of Jamal and first among  Netherils's Arcanists. He had no recollection of heroes, claimed never met them and certainly hadn't given them crystal. He explained the war was waging between Arcanists and Grey Wraith, who crowned himself emperor of Magic. In reality it was petty magician, even not considered Arcanist, but with sheer of luck or moreover lies and intrigue he came into possession Cylinder of Nether. It was stuff of pure magic, potent artefact, able to redefine laws of Wave and magic. With it he was trying to usurp rule over Netheril.

Heroes in meantime explained (once more), why they came to Netheril. Iolaum deduced the can join forces and solve their problems at once. If heroes were able to take possession of Cylinder of Nether and removed it from Netheril, it would not threaten it's magical nature. What's more, if they define magic according to their desire, the would be able to prevent Spellplague, save Mystra or even halt colliding worlds. The only obstacle wa Carlin the Grey or isn't him, like Ren deducted?

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 44 - All the petty lies of Carlin the Grey part 1 of 3

Heroes
Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki
Jarod - Jacek
Ren Howl - Adrian
Steven - Leon
Elaya - Dagmara

Fall of al-Azif was terrible disaster, that rocked and shocked not only earth itself but magical energies of the Weave as well. Mythallar exploded and in one instant many living beings cried out in fear and perished. Form of the wind saved heroes from death but their essence was dispersed and it took some time for them to recuperate. When they finally did it a servant girl guided heroes to door, behind which was a huge, vaulted chamber. And material world. There they were met by middle-age, ordinary man, whose aura of power was unmistakeable. He introduced himself as Iolaum and guided heroes to library and office.

Asking many questions and listening patiently, Iolaum learned of heroes' deeds and adventures. He was very inquisitive concerning fall of Al-Asif and interested in many topics, alas he was not able to hear anything about Netheril's future. Finally reaching Faerun's most learned sage, heroes were granted with an opportunity to ask questions, the answers for which they were seeking for. Iolaum had not granted straight and immediate answer. He admitted he needs time to find answers. In exchange he asked for little help in acquiring a relic long lost, he located. To guide heroes during this adventure, he introduced Elaya, an elven arcane archer, who was his aide.

When heroes agreed, the were teleported and found themselves in desert. All around there were cliffs and sand and in a skyline tall mountains were visible. Heroes moved on and soon a ruined city appeared. In rock walls that encircled it were cut temples and building, worming deep inside mountain. heroes began to poke around ruins, finding traces of struggle and desperate defence. At one pint they stumbled upon a ritual bath and sensed, that their mere presence was a blasphemy to that place.

Deciding there is nothing to gain here, party moved on and climbed up mountain. Atop of it was huge boulder, blocking way inside. After removing it, one by one heroes descended into cavern below. There they found six mummified corpses in strange tiaras, bearded and all male. Behind them was corridor: low, narrow and uneven. Here and there were even smaller corridors more like tubes, leading to very cramped cells. Everywhere there were almost no furniture or any items. Also there were no sign of religious symbols, arcane items or any other things like that. Finally heroes discovered a large chamber. Large in sense of that barren, narrow dungeon. It was room about twenty feet long and wide with simple altar and no other furniture. Heroes began search for hidden passages, items left or traps, even watering down the floor. When it froze to ice, it was sure sign, something bad was happening.

Suddenly all around there were full of apparitions and phantoms. Bearded, harsh and stern faces gleamed with hatred on trespassers and blasphemers. Everything that heroes had seen leaded to conclusion that some orthodox and strict sect had taken place here. Ghosts of those monks attacked in silence only grave chill of their presence speaking of their power. Moreover Connal's holy power seemed to be ineffective, fortunately ordinary weapons and Steven's spells still had effect.

After defeating congregation, Jarod searched chamber once more and found secret doors. Another narrow and low corridor led to chamber well below. there was prize, heroes and Iolaum sought: a tall, magical cylinder engulfed in calm blue light. Ren, Connal and Jarod inspected it, finding it covered with some strange marks, letters and hieroglyphs. they called Steven and Elaya and then all the hell broke loose. when wizard closed in, cylinder began to spin, emanating bright light. Steven retreated above but cylinder spun faster and faster. He contacted Iolaum via small crystal but he was not able to help. Heroes tried do something but had no idea what to and when they began withdraw, a blinding light exploded.

Next thing the saw was fire. It was everywhere around, burning and devouring everything on it's path. Heroes ran through long walkway. finally they got from hellish chamber to find themselves in broodingly familiar place. It was cave leading to gate, they used to travel to Netheril. Apparently magical auras thrown them back to their time. Deciding the want explore what happened, heroes ventured outside. to their surprise they have not found "Sky Mill"! Flying ship was gone and nowhere to be seen. What more curious and disturbing, seeds Ren had been planting had grown into thin, young trees. It was obvious that something bad happened. Heroes decided it was their duty to finish whole affair and after rest descended one more time and crossed portal again.

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 43 - One thousand and first night

This is second of reports that should be posted long ago, but I had no time or rather no will to write them. This is issue I'd like discuss in greater detail in a future here or on on my other blog.

Heroes

Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki

Jarod - Jacek

Ren Howl - Adrian
Steven - Leon

Heroes were set free to their own devices and left to live as they please. With Steven help they mad way around a city. It was full of shadowy squares, white, flat topped houses, minarets, secret gardens and bazaars full of wares and merchants. While city was bursting with activity and everywhere was common day magic seen, party was still keen to find and meet Iolaum. At first the wanted to meet with reigning arcanist Al-Asif, but it turned out that his palace was locked and guards turned everybody off. Moreover nobody cam out of it and nobody went inside for weeks.

Despite several attempts, heroes were not able to enter it. Walls were guarded by magical wards, palace watchmen, but something sinister was in the air. After much deliberation, there was a suggestion to seek other arcanist. Steven happened to know one, that lived outside of palace. He led his new friends to his compartments, hidden deep in the luxurious districts of city.

What they found, exceeded their expectations. Arcanist Jamal was lying on his bed, shaking and trembling. Around it was a protection circle drawn and ashes of scroll were scattered on bed. A careful search proved, that he cast a spell called Astral Projection and ventured outside. It was obvious that something went terribly wrong. Search proved to be fruitful, Jarod found a case that contained a second copy of spell. Heroes decided the do not want to venture into Astral Sea and called Jamal back. After feeding and taking care of him he revealed that he had tried enter a palace but failed. Something terrible and evil happened there. Wards were still strong and kept something inside, but it was matter of time, when the will have fail.

Heroes decided it is their turn to act. The made agreement with Jamal, that he will teleports them to Yolaum's enclave but first the wanted to inspect situation inside palace. They were to meet at dawn and leave Al-Asif despite their findings.

Getting into palace was no small task, but heroes succeeded  in it. Inside they found a living hell of people dying in most inhuman ways, working themselves to death, living in constant fear and terror. In main chamber, a former throne room, the found a large table and crude gate. Dome above it was shattered and moon shone on table. It was a Midnight Clock and upon it's flat cadran there were many strange, mysterious and blaspheme symbols inscribed. Soon somebody approached, so heroes hid. It was lean and tall an with little, pig-like eyes and thin beard. He was constantly murmuring under his breath of greatness he will achieve, glories he deserves and enemies that plague him. while he was about to perform some magical ritual on Midnight Clock, hereoes took action.

It was Ren who attacked first, stunning mysterious figure. Seconds later Jarod sneak-attacked him twice and Connal finished enemy, calling a column of holy fire. In that last moment it became obvious that petty magician was weak and almost devoid of magical craft. Carlin the Grey, because it was him, died on knees, slain in less than one round! But it was too soon to celebrate victory. Moon's ray was travelling around clock and something else came through the door. It was bloated and overgrown, mutated and malformed man, arcanist and lord Al-Asif. Flesh was his, bot no will or soul. His body was shell, a merely vessel for demon, who erupted from inside and furiously attacked heroes. It was Chain Devil, who had been summoned by arcanist and broke free. His intention was to come back to his hellish home and when the gate opened, he went there but Connal, keen on finishing him, anchored demon and drawn back to city. More fierce fight erupted and than something became apparent.

enclaves as flying cities are known are linked to their creators. Mythalls that give them magical energies to exists are directly linked to their creators. with Al-Azif horrible death, whole magic was gone. City has crumbled and fell down to earth. It was desperate fight, heroes had to defeat demon, before city smashes to the ground. Just before it crashed down, demon's mortal part was killed, Connal transformed his friends into ghosts and flying city smashed into ground, destroyed forever!

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 42 - The Green Shadow part 3 of 3

This report is a first of series much delayed posts, I hope write during this week. As we are going to play this week, I'd like to catch-up, before memory will fail me. This meeting took place on March 12th and was strange one. first of all we introduced Leon to party and have been waiting for Jarecki, whose duties kept from playing. All in all, session was brief and segmented.

Heroes

Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki

Jarod - Jacek

Ren Howl - Adrian
Steven - Leon

Last mission laid before party was a Winter Tale. Heroes returned to a castle, only to find it in ruins. There was chill in the air and coldness all around. Heave snow covered all country and only crows and wolves were left for company. Ren decided to scout ahead while Jarod looked for camping site. After much deliberation, the decided to go into marshlands, where they suspected winter's Queen dwelled. From what they heard, Isandrea, bitter over quarrel with Syntira and mourning his late husband, joined hag coven.

That night, under a full moon, the caught glimpse of wicked shape moving between trees. Soon Jarod found a huge cauldron and to their horror heard childish screams from inside it. When trio of hags gathered around it, it was composed of creatures they have encountered during their previous adventures, and when the lit fire under a bowl, reluctantly Jarod and Ren attacked.

Playing their speed and manoeuvrability, heroes were able to rescue cooked children and slay all wicked women. Just when the last of them was killed, Winter Queen appeared. In the same moment Jarecki returned in words and diplomacy, that are Connal's field of expertise, he calmed her anger and explained situation. when Queen agreed she led heroes to castle high in mountains and while she walked, spring has returned. Soon after also fay came out of hiding and castle was full of laughter again. Called by it, Syntira appeared to reunite with her mother. Heroes have succeeded, all wrongs were repaired.

With their quest completed, heroes returned to crossroads and found, that they also freed twins from their task. After an awkward farewell, party set out to tree-gate. There they one more time met with Isandrea, Kiander's ghost and Syntira. They thanked one more time and shown a way back to Netheril.

What heroes found out after returning, was a thick, ancient and verdant forest. There was almost no trace after Falcon's Hollow and Siriana was barely a small fishing village. Wandering around those wilds heroes came to realisation, that correcting events in Green Shadow had an impact on Prime Material world too.

While staying in Siriana, they were witness to sight incredible and fascinating. Sky darkened on midday and floating city swam across the blue sky. Soon winged riders descended to see, what has happened. Arcanist Al-Azif of Al-Azif domain wanted to inspect sudden reformation of land. Heroes were taken high above to city, where they were questioned and allowed to stay in a city. Their guide was also newcomer, a wizard Steven, whom they met.

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 41 - The Green Shadow part 2 of 3

It's been a month since last session, yet I found impossible to write even shortest report, not mentioning full length recap. I it quite ironic, as those February meeting was the best we had in a year or so. Finally freed of rules' shackles I was able to concentrate on story and climate building. Adventure turned out to be fun, interesting mix of combat, thinking, problem solving and most of all, roleplaying.

While I've been a little afraid of playing on convention, it was nice experience and great fun. Sadly, Paweł decided finally to quit our group. It;s a great loss, as he is nice fellow, good player and quickly became very important member of our party.

Heroes

Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki

Jarod - Jacek

Ren Howl - Adrian

Heroes returned to brother's tree and stated the have helped Isandrea sent her wishes to sky and create a new star. They asked seelie one what is her next fault and should the do. He explained that Isandrea fell in love with a human. There were a great deal of issues between the Fae and humans, as those first lived in forest, and later cut trees down to settle and farm the land. In tragic past, Isandrea had to choose which side she is with: her kin, or her lover's close ones.

Heroes moved on and once again entered a deep forest. Will o' wisps circled through night shade, animals beaked and trees were singing summer song. After a day of travel, party emerged from wood to find crude hamlet. It's human inhabitants were suspicious at first but later greeted heroes wit arms wide open. When Connal cured sicc, Jarod began to scout village and Ren met with villagers. They were simple and humble folk. Their life depended on river, as well as all other human settlements. Problem was that the were afraid to go deeper into woods as for some strange circumstances Fae never came closer to running water. With growing number of people it was inevitable that some forest cutting will take place and war with the Fae will erupt.

At first heroes tried to convince people to live in harmony with forest creatures, but their words fell on deaf eras. It seemed those humans involuntarily crossed border between Prime Material Plane and Green Shadow and for few generations they lived uncertain and afraid of their surrounding., Now, with their numbers growing, the were gaining confidence to carve themselves some land.

Soon it became apparent, that a young ranger named Kivander. He was secretly dating with young noble Fae Isandrea and wondered, how to carry on with his life and love.Red discovered his secret and asked for meeting. Isandrea dimly remembered heroes. The soon decided that it is necessary to guide human colonizations in a very special way: on one hand it must be allowed to grow settlements, on the other hand Fae lands were not to be disturbed. While humans lived along the river, it was decide that bes course will be to create a one bed.  Connal and Jarod moved to small lake discovered nearby to ensure it's spirit agrees. After a long and funny negotiations with not so bright, womanizing Aquarius, the got his agreement and traded ring +2 for ring of three wishes. That Fae wasn't particularly bright.

Meanwhile Ren began to prepare villagers to splitting river. When he talked with host of them suddenly realized that someone or something is mimicking his voice to deliver much more cruel and war-monging message.With Kivander's help he spotted a young woman hiding in crowd, who was manipulating his voice with spells. He rushed to her, grabbed and than an illusion fell down, revealing a hag, hiding among humans. It was no night hag this time, but green one. After a quick fight monster was beaten and dead and as her pans to turn humans and Fae upon each other.

When river was split and humans future peacefully assured, Isandrea and Kivander asked Connal to perform their marriage ceremony. Some weeks after celebrations, heroes felt urge to come leave village and traveled to the Tree.

This time it was unseelie brother's turn. While mocking heroes, he explained a terrible loss waited for Isandrea. Her only remain of love, of long dead beloved husband, a daughter was to be presented in court. But on that fated night. Her name was Syntira and she was maid of extraordinary beauty. Heroes set off and soon found themselves in wicked, black forest. Rain was pouring and road ahead climbed high up to castle on the highest mountain. Soon a black kinght blocked the path, challenging one of heroes to combat. Connal accepted and fought with courage. His newfound shield  and hammer became very useful and he defeated opponent. When heroes resumed climb, they saw the Black Knight once again standing on duty.

After arrival, heroes presented gift and wishes to Queen Isandrea and her daughter. while attending party, Jarod caught glimpse of hagly shape, shadowing behind windows, while Connal encountered  hedged-haired gentleman who stated clear they are enemies this evening. When a midnight our struck, a great fire erupted. Panic swept through hall and guest fled, leaving only queen, her daughter and hedge-haired Fae. He declared war upon queen and summoned his ally: a dragon! Heroes rushed froward, while keeping an eye on shadowy hag and protecting Isandrea and Syntira. Beast was clearly young, but managed to bleed Jarod and inflict some damage to Ren but finally was slain. It;s master accepted his defeat but hag disappeared during fight.

Heroes returned to the Tree and used remaining wishes, preparing themselves to final part of adventure.

Behind the Screen
- Connal gained 14th level.
- Jarod or Ren also gained level.
- It was best adventure since a very long time. I enjoyed it as well as playing on convention.
- We are gonna to have another player to fill up a wizard's role.

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 40 - The Green Shadow part 1 of 3

Heroes

Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki

Jarod - Jacek

Ren Howl - Adrian

NPC

Cetus - Paweł (absent)

Heroes decided to rest and search burial mound next day. They made camp in woods and slept night in peace. Next morning Connal cast spells restoring their strength and all three went back to tree and began inspecting entrance to tomb. Stone that was blocking it was round and heavy but heroes quickly removed it. Behind it there was a tunnel slightly overgrown with roots and bushes. It lead to chamber well below tree and burial mound. In the middle upon short pillar an old root was placed along with some treasures. What was particularly strange, treasures gathered in chamber were like fitted for heroes: dwarven armor and bane mace against undead, monk weapons or lucky sword for rogue. It almost looked as Isandrea had defeated similar group o adventurers before.

Characters gathered loot and made way back to exit but this time corridor was heavily overgrown with roots. When they finally returned to the surface, heroes soon realized that their surroundings completely changed. Meadow was gone, replaced by thick forest. Mountains on the horizon seemed more massive, tall and majestic. there were a strange sweetness in the air, stars shone brighter and sky was clearer. Even the themselves looked more regal, noble and resembled archetype of their race or class.

Soon a man, a ranger, approached them. It was obvious he is some kind of ghost, but not malevolent or wicked, but a serene apparition. He greeted them to a Green Shadow, a plane where nature rules, civilization is like a new born infant and where rules of legend or fairytale precede customs of physics or logic. His name was Kivander and he explained that whole demiplane is suffering from curse brought by Isandrea actions. Not only Green Shadow suffered, but Prime Material World too. It was perhaps heroes who were destined to lift off a curse. He himself couldn't take action, as he was part of tragedy, a human husband dryad queen.

Spirit explained that more information can be found at Gnome's Bazaar, only permanent settlement at crossroads of two roads running through whole realm. Heroes moved in direction ranger provided. First day was tough: journey through dense, thick and verdant forest resembled trek across Goro-Goro's jungles. But soon Connal turned heroes into wind and the flew over the hills, forest, rivers, lakes and mountains to find Gonme's Bazaar.

Town was relatively small but bursting with an activity. Two roads that crossed in the middle were lighted by the same magical lanterns, as those near Falcon's Hollow. Heroes arrived shortly before twilight. there were gnomes haggling, unicorns reading fortune, eladrin exchanging legendary tales, people going on with their lives. While Jarod and Connal were booking places at inn, Ren sneaked out to bazaar. But with sun setting a strange change took place. Unicorns were replaced by gypsies, eladrin by creatures of the night. Where love-potions seller sat, a poisoner was offering his wares. Ren decided to read his fortune and met an elderly gypsy woman. She knew him well, despite the didn't met yet. She explained that heroes should seek twin brothers and their Tree. In exchange for help and as a payment, Ren drawn a card from the gypsy's deck. Card was blanc.

Next day heroes looked out two brothers and Tree. The found them quickly. One of them was in shiny armor, with sprite hovering at his hand, with blond hair and smile upon face. The other one was clad in armor of thorns, with jet black hair and dog eating rotting flesh at his feet. Marak, a bright one, explained that fate of Green Shadow and Darkening Moon Vale rests in Isandrea hands. There are four key moments in her life that transformed her into Winterqueen of Hate that declared war against humans and feyfolk who opposed her. If wrong can be repaired, perhaps peace and serenity will reign. One happened in Spring, second during pleasant Summer, third one when Autumn leaves covered forest floor and Isandrea fate was sealed in Winter's cold embrace. Marak was guarding paths to first two happenings, while his twin brother Karam to later two.

Heroes decided to start with Spring and  set out road along with directions from Marak. soon they found out themselves in thick forest. Along with them many faries traveled, all in need to participate in Enstarement Ceremony. Characters learned that it was annual festival, where noble fae offered their secret dreams and sent them out in the sky, to form a new stars, named after them. It was necessary to be included in High Court, an honor each fae aspires to. Marak have told them, that Isandrea's dream had been stolen just before sending in sky, resulting with shame and disgrace that fell upon shoulder of young and fragile fae. Heroes decided to explore Star Castle and temple before looking for Isandrea.

They spent two days exploring city, temple, place and district, where noble fae lived. Jarod and Ren performed scouting missions, while Connal looked for potential thieves and Isandrea herself. They learned, that each fae instinctively knew when it was her turn to go to temple and offer her dreams. So heroes had to wait. Ren turned to treant and watched her from garden, while Jarod sneaked streets. Connal decided to prowl in dark corners of temple, preparing to strike against enemies.

Finally the night came. Without warning, Isandrea left her house and shielding light of her dreams with bare hands, she began pilgrimage to the Temle. Ren and Jarod Shadowed her from distance, closely watching for enemies. Unhindered the arrived at temple and made contact with Connal. When Isandrea was about to enter room, where dreams were sent into sky, a shadowy figure appeared before her. Clouded in fear and darkness, it was tall and gaunt, with mane of raven black hair and eyes full of nightmares. Ren immediately recognized it as a creature like one he fought atop of Andru's tower: a Night Hag!

Jarod and Ren attacked, with Connal supporting them and taking care of Isandrea. Creature was not prepared to fight sneaky rouge and valiant monk. Hag tried to put them to sleep but her spell failed (actually it was only Isandrea, that fell asleep). Blows and chops fell upon creature of night, which fought back fiercely but ultimately was killed and disappeared like a bad dream...

After Isandrea had been awaken and comforted, heroes escorted her to chamber, where she sent her secret dreams to sky and new star began to shine. Later that night heroes left off and after short journey the arrived at the Tree, greeted with stares of amazement and amusement.

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 39 - Pallid Plague part 3 of 3

Heroes

Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki

Jarod - Jacek

Ren Howl - Adrian

NPC

Avelon, priestess of Waukeen

Cetus - Paweł (absent)

Heroes returned to Falcon's Hollow to report that Pallid Plague is over. There was much rejoice and spontaneous celebration was called. Party carried all night and happiness finally descended upon troubled village. For a short while... At first light a huge shapes appeared from morning mist. Smashing building, crushing people they strode through village leaving behind a trail of destruction. From a ground huge, throned roots appeared, encircling tavern, healer's house and Lumberjack company's office. They grew quickly and soon levitated, transforming into balls of green light.

Heroes made a courageous stand against rampaging hill giants. Monster's bodies were covered with leaves, bark and wooden thorns. Beasts faced party in two waves and each time were defeated, despite Cetus' disappearance. Later it turned out he was still inside tavern, when thorns surrounded it and was captured inside ball of light. while fighting giants, Ren was wondering what caused them to attack. From their look it was reasonable, that evil dryad wasn't defeated yet.

After disposing with giants, heroes hastily made a way into woods, where balls of light headed. Trek was tough,as wood was getting more tangled and dense with each step. Finally light stopped and soon heroes discovered they are hovering above a meadow with large, obviously dead tree in center of it. Tree was located on the top of small mound with round stone upon one side. All in all it looked as tomb.

Ball of lights descended upon tree one at time, channeling gathered energy into dead wood. With each passing minute, tree was regaining life. Connal reasoned that it is feed with life energy of captured humans. He boldly stepped out and channeled positive energy of Moradin's power. Rest of heroes began searching meadow when something strange happened.

Suddenly all around was a harsh winter, wind was blowing, snow was falling and sun was gone. Behind heroes a mysterious shapes appeared: insubstantial, dark and brooding. Twelve warriors with spears and high helmets looked upon them with hate. Between them a undead faerie queen's ghost stood, with horrid human and dog hybrid on the leash. She pointed at heroes and hell broke out. Ghost wailing and wight blades cut, waves of negative and positive energy rolled and when dust was cleared and forces of witch fairy were defeated, Connal and Jarod were laying dead. Ren was barely breathing and Avelon looked upon carnage with quirky smile.

It was time to reveal. Avelon's faith and allegiance were suspected for a long time. Finally, she decided to reveal her true colors. She asked Ren to swear, he won't turn against her and when he made a promise, she produced symbol of her faith from underneath robes and resurrected fallen comrades in the name of Shar. Then, while they were still confused and shaken, she explained, she failed a test of her goddess and for hubris was punished with memory loss. But with help of heroes she regained Shar's favor and was restored to her powers and rank. Then she made a farewell and disappeared in the woods.

Behind the screen
- Two deaths and almost Total Party Kill. I didn't liked it, didn't planned it. What caused the situation? Heores weren't at full power level, they disposed some spells, healing powers and were overwhelmed by enemies.
- Once again to many rules to remember, I totally forgot of wraith's special rules. Simply, Pathfinder is a way too complicated for me. For now, I prefer 4th edition :)

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 38 - Pallid Plague part 2 of 3

Heroes

Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki

Jarod - Jacek

Ren Howl - Adrian

NPC

Avelon, priestess of Waukeen

Cetus - Paweł (absent)

After helping lumberjack, heroes made camp and took watch at night. Nex day the went deeper into forest, looking for source of the plague. It was an strange orchard guarded by fallen druids. They were tending bushes of strange flowers, that were the same, as in bellies of undead bears. Quick and merciless attack killed almost all of gardeners. One last was captured and interviewed. With bile and hatred, he explained that it is too late, messengers with bags full of flowers were not on the way, but in Falcon's Hallow, preparing the town's doom.

Heroes headed immediately back and found town crowded with beggars. The secretly distributed flowers around community, while their base around old, abandoned house near herbalist shop. While Connal gathered forces of Lumberjack Consortium, Ren infiltrated network and found out their base, while Jarod and Cetus set trap. With one, quick strike whole affair was ended: beggars caught, flowers burnt. Going after first hit, heroes headed back to groove and learned from imprisoned druid, that plague was created with Iandrea Stella, buried under river bed.

Heroes immediately went to search for it and found stone basin. It was destroyed with Moradin's power. Ren decided to go into forest to search for fae-queen Syrix. He met her in old groove and informed of happenings. Whole group retreated then to Falcon's Hallow.

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 37 - Underwater part 2 of 2 and Pallid Plague part 1 of 3

Heroes

Cetus - Paweł.

Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki

Jarod - Jacek

Ren Howl - Adrian

NPC

Avelon, priestess of Waukeen

Bracket, captain of Road Wardens from Valley of Darkening Moon

After disposing a giant shark, heroes were approached by eight ameba-like, shapeless underwater entities, aboleths. Connal took upon his shoulders a burden of discussing with them and learned they were fearing the Kraken. Heroes agreed to investigate beast's case, if army stops siege. Abloeths agreed and promised to support them with their troops. The same was with sea elves and soon an extraordinary army moved on. After two weeks f travel, group reached a barren area of sea bed, where a huge pit was centered. Inside of it lived a terrifying monsters of depths... or didn't they? It was obvious, while some giant octopuses and squids dwelt there, no monstrous Kraken was present. Was it's existence another Carlin's lie?

Heroes returned to Coral and made report and than left for surface. They set course to Siriana, where the wanted to gather information about arcanists, flying cities and general whereabouts. During stay in port, they were approached by an elder man named Bracket, who was retired Road Warden. He was troubled with messages from friend of his, a sylvan queen Syntira of Darkmoon Valley. Her subjects were dying of strange plague, as well as many woodcutters too. Symptoms were similar to those of Isandrea Stella. It was created by dryad that wanted get rid of humans and Lumberjack consortium, but she disappeared long ago.

Heroes set out and after one day of travel along well-lighted roads, they arrived at Falcon's Hollow, small town, that was center of human's operations. Soon characters found that for some time sick lumberjacks were coming to town, to achieve curing and problems were centered deep in woods. One of the camps were under almost constant siege by wood creatures and so heroes moved to it. Journey took a full day and by the evening, after braving woods, valleys and streams, heroes arrived at their destination. The found lumberjacks fighting for their lives and loosing.

Heroes quickly joined the fray, moving against strange half-animal and half-plant creatures. They were of size and shape bear, entangled with thorns and stuffed-up with colorful, bright flowers. Combat wasn't to tough for heres but of all lumberjacks, only two survived. Finally, heroes defeated creatures and were able to help survivors...

Chapter Six: Netheril - Session 36 - Underwater part 1

Heroes

Cetus - Paweł.

Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki

Jarod - Jacek

Ren Howl - Adrian

NPC

Avelon, priestess of Waukeen

Pearl - queen of sea elves

Art - elder of Falcon's Hollow

Heres stepped into a portal and found themselves in large gallery under pulsing blue roof. Surrounding them were objects of art, armors, magical artifacts. Below gallery there was a throne room and group of creatures, discussing with a strong agitation. Connal cast tongues spell and quickly understood that those were sea elves and their city was besieged by an evil army. Heroes introduced themselves and to their surprise were not only recognized but fully expected.

It turned out that Cetus, Avelon and Gorma, who entered portal first, arrived about six months earlier. but with them came a Grey Shadow, a malicious, petty and evil spirit. He was residing inside Gorma's stuff, which she made of one of "Sky Mill's" branches. He accused three of treachery, doublecrossing and stealing his fabulous magical powers. Moreover, that apparition, escaped and connected with it's former self, a fully living wizard of high ambition and low skills. 

Carlin the Grey.

He escaped a city, abducting Cetus, Avelon and Gorma. Few weeks later a huge army of sharks, octopuses, sahuagin and other evil sea creatures attacked Correal. Obviously Carlin's intention was clear: to destroy portal, before Connal, Ren and Jarod arrive and put his intrigue down.

Chief guardian asked heroes to escort Pearl to safe hideout, while he and warriors will reclaim city. while doing so, PC's had to enter a maze of corridors, praying for air. Finally they entered a blue cave of water, where queen was waiting for them. As the voiced will to help elves and find their companions, she offered them a underwater apparatus, capable of crossing depths and lengths.

Heroes decided to act. They flew (or swam?) over fighting armies and scouted a mountain range and found a tunnel, leading to huge cave, where host of sahuagin was stationed. Short fight erupted and they ere chased by giant octopus, but they learned of teleportation circle inside of structure. The withraw an attack to find friends and tier whereabouts first. Submarine emerged from water and was greeted by storm. Sending was send to Cetus, who answered that he and Avelon are on shore in town of Siriana, well and happy. 

Next day party, at evening  reconciled and heroes learned that in fact it was their former companion, who turned out to be traitor. He was accusing them of throwing him at illithid's mercy, of stealing his power, treachery, lack of respect and many other. He was ranting without stop or sense, but Avelon was able to fool him, she's priestess of evil goddess and they should join forces. It was matter of small intrigue and she and Cetus' escaped. Where Carlin and Gorma went, the knew nothing.

With that, heroes decide they have to repair damages the were responsible for and look for Carlin to prevent him from wreaking more havoc and of course to search for Iolaum. First they returned to city and found that eves reclaimed city. It was speculated, that invading army was lured into attack by Carlin's machinations and heres decided to enter a Maw, a cave they previously discovered, to find horde's masters and persuaded them to step back. 

Their ship swam through tunnel and heroes dropped one by one on teleportation circle. Ren was first. He was greeted by darkness, that lightstone barely shine but something was at him! He darted to escape but huge, monstrous creature was relentless in pursuit. while rest of heroes emerged bringing more and  more light, it was clear that they were facing a giant, primordial shark of unsatisfiable appetite. After a bloody and frenzy fight beast was slain and we ended session.

Behind the screen

- We decided to abandon Pathfinder Beta and switch to final release.

- Paweł was unfortunately absent.

- There were advances: Jarod and Ren

Chapter Five: Vilhoon Reach - Session 35 - Madness part 2

By readers demand I'ill specify player's characters and notable NPCs.

Heroes
Cetus - Paweł.
Connal Ragnirsson - Jarecki
Jarod - Jacek
Ren Howl - Adrian

NPC
Avelon, priestess of Waukeen
Gorma, a wizard
Prince Oreom - doge of Ceddarspoke
Princes Aujil - dogess of Ceddarspoke
The Friend - leader of one of thieves guild
Sephiron - a fallen deva

We picked session up, where it was left.
After defeating a fallen deva, Sephiron, heroes searched platform. Only thing worth was a throne of gold, inscribed with angel's glory and deeds. There were no mention of his falling. While heroes were searching, from below a crowd of fanatics began climbing. When they reached platform, immediately attacked. Some of invaders were cut to pieces by Blade Barrier, other were blasted with Cetus' Fireball. Only survivor was Grey Monk priest, who began incantation, but has fallen out of ladder. To Connal's and Cetus' terror he was invoking name of Black Lord, dead god Bane!

Heroes decided it is time to move out. They teleported on the roof of nearby building and looked for suitable place. After short search they settled in abandoned palace. Knowing, that Hammer of Disruption can be easily located, the decided not to return to guild's safe house. Instead Jarod was sent with a message. thieves promised to pass a word to the Friend.

At midnight The Friend appeared in palace with entourage of sneakers and assassins. She briefly discussed matters of concern and said, she'll be in touch. Guilds were becoming upset with situation and future of Ceddarspoke, as it was threatening their profits and perhaps, existence.

Next day Jarod was sent to scout out the Black tower. He was having some troubles with overseer, but dispatched him quickly, yet painfully. Sneaking to the Black Tower basement, he discovered prison and dungeon under it. Way was blocked by suspicious wall, so he turned back, to bring rest of PC's.

After sneaking through Grand Square and entering dungeon, party traveled through lone corridor. It was abandoned, but Jarod found out, that someone was secretly entering underground complex. At the end of tunnel was a lonely cell, closed with iron doors. Inside of it laid body of man and was kept woman, pregnant and starving. Recognizing pair of ruling princes, heroes snatched Oreom's body and Aujil and teleported to "Sky Mill". Jarod and Ren traveled by ordinary means and felt observed.

On board Connal healed Aujil and resurrected Oreom. to his surprise doge spirit was closer than one could think. From words that slipped out of doge lips, it was clear that while in prison cell, he was poisoned by his wife. when rescued were put to sleep, Sephiron reappeared to reclaim his Hammer of Disruption. At first he gained advantage in combat, stunning Connal, but was overcomed by Ren and used his plane shift ability to escape one more time.

Heroes agreed to help doge Oreom. the traveled to hidden cache of riches and nearby city to hire a mercenary army. Than they came back to Ceddarspoke to find it disturbingly quite and serene. It quickly turned out, that carnival of madness is over, as Grey Monks were put to death at hands of allied guilds.

During next weeks Oreom and Aujil regained power in city. doge kept his word and revealed location, where portal to Netheril could be. Heroes traveled there and found volcano calm and inactive. Descending deep into maze caverns they found temperature rising. At the center of dungeon were room filled with great fire and inscriptions of devotion to Kossuth. Cetus assumed form of fire elemental, but was damaged by heat. After long preparations and casting many protective spells, heroes entered chamber and went through portal...

Behind the Screen

Jarod advanced to 12 level of experience.

Some differences between Pathfinder Beta and final version were visible, so we decided to check, if we like to switch to it.

Chapter Five: Vilhoon Reach - Session 34 - Madness part 1

After healing Andru and regrouping, heroes lifted "Sky Mill" and traveled to city of Cedarspoke in which the hoped to find clues concerning time gate to Netheril. Journey was short and pleasant and soon ship anchored at bay. And the troubles began. Viewed from sea, city appeared to celebrate something. Fireworks flashed, sound of horns, trumpets and music was carried by the wind. Just as ship dropped anchor, a sickly yellow and green mist arose and engulfed part of pier and ship. It was poisonous and deadly, instantly killing Gorma and sickening Jarod, Connal and Ren. Cetus quickly raised ship, high above rolling vapor. Navitas reported that above city hovered a few invisible creatures. moreover, Cedarspoke was surrounded by seven camps, obviously laying siege.

Connal tried to revive Gorma but "Breath of Life" was cast too late, so the "Raise Dead" spell was needed. Soon ship was attacked by flying patrol of soldiers on griffons, who tried to cast ship out of sky. Attackers were quickly disposed with devastating use of "Blade Barrier" spell. Heroes decided to stay out of sight and scout in search of what is going on. Jarod was sent on spy mission and learned that Grand Alliance besieged city and kept in in closing for three months. There was a "madness" there and soldiers were committed to keep it within walls. Heroes decided to look through maps and talk with one of commanders, so next night Jarod was sent once again to scout ahead but was caught. Only quick action and cooperation between PC's achieved via "Telepathic Link" allowed them to sneak friend out and save him from death.

Next day, after message sent by Connal, heroes met Vespera diNerio, commander of mercenary army and his entourage. After polite conversation in shadow of abandoned lighthouse, they learned Cedarspoke rules Oreom and Aijul were overthrown by rebellious cult of Grey monks, who spread word of Black Lord's coming and ultimate night under his tyranny. Their preachings and teachings sent whole city in doom-awaitng madness. As long as armies were stationed, unending carnival of debauchery, depravation and decadence was held. Nobody paid attention to armies besieging city. Citizens played, danced, wasted resources in expectation of world's end. In the meantime rulers of Grand alliance were arguing  over whose army will enter city as first one.

Heroes decided to enter the city and look for it's rulers, as Oreom was a wizard of sorts and it was possible, he will know something about gate. That same day "Sky Mill" once again entered harbor. As warned heroes were greeted with sights of maddening carnival. Crazy people were running around, flagellants roamed streets preaching incoming doom and mutilated themselves, in backyards and back alleys orgy after another had place. In one of courtyards steps lead to a steel blade and religiously maddened people thrown themselves to by cut apart. After searching city, heroes found an oasis of peace and reason in form of thieves guild. The greeted them under their roof and invited to stay. That night their masked leader appeared. Called "The Friend" she offered a deal: in exchange of dispatching of an angel, thieves will lead heroes to prison, where Oreom and his wive Aijul were kept. After signing deal, next morning, heroes went to the Black Tower, that was still build in the main piazza of the city. Construction was raised around old palace of rulers and it was said to contain an invisible platform, where Guardian was enthroned. After climbing ladders and steps of construction site, heroes reached it and confronted fallen angel. Fight was tough, as outsider proved to be worthy opponent but eventually heroes were able to overcome it but, he suddenly disappeared. During fight Ren took angel's magical hammer and gave it to Connal, so heres are able to trace it.

But fight is not over...

Behind the screen
- As usual, adventure went in surprising direction. I assumed heroes will defeat deva but combat went into different direction. similar, I have not planned episode with Jarod's imprisonment and rescue. Actual course of next adventure will be based on that, what characters will do and how they respond to situation.

- There are two easter eggs in adventure and this very report, I wonder if somebody will find them?

- I see players create tactics of utilization their powers, spells, so to challenge them I will do the same with monsters :)

- I bought Pathfinder Bestiary and rulebook and were given GM Screen! Every item is very useful!

Chapter Four: The Sword Coast - Session 32 - Good news from the Sword Coast - part 3

It's been a while since I ran last session, but some personal and professional issues were keeping me from updating blog. Next meeting is planned on August, 7th due to holidays and guys' vacation plans.

Session began with PC's plans on topic, how to depose body. The key factor was how to do it, without alerting high-ranking officials. If the become aware of situation, especially changes in books text, minor librarians would face sever consequences. As always, Bag of Holding came handy and heroes smuggled body out. Young clerks assured they are able to "repair" books. With their help and extensive as well as very fast and productive library search, heroes learned that book "My year of life in Netheril" was written by geographer and cartographer, Andru the Wizard. He was one of many wizards but at some point was able to gather vast hoard of treasure and settled on his own private island.

Meanwhile librarians contacted heroes with Cetus, a sage, researcher and wizard of much renown among academicians, who was looking for company to travel far away from Candlekeep. He proved to be valuable party member and wise person, what came evidently when researching information on Time Gates to Netheril, conditions concerning travel back in time or material components required for casting Time Conduit spell.
All in all, it became obvious, that Andru's island is first step of research, as it was relatively close to Candlekeep.

"Sky Mill" climbed up in air and flew north. Meanwhile heroes dropped body of Cyric's emissary to sea. Two days later ship arrived at harbor of Andru's islands. Local villagers greeted heroes warmly but informed them, that master Andru is absent, due to extensive research he conducts. His wife sometimes comes to village to buy food or needed supplies. while speaking of her, master of village, Morg, became fearful and suspicious. He confessed some dark things are happening. She was seen staring at windows of some houses and people living there, especially children, died. Heroes agreed to investigate matter in secret.

Party quickly climbed up hill, to reach the tower. After arriving at top of the hill heroes were immediately attacked by a twisted treant who was hiding between trees. After quick fight he was defeated. Cetus released his pseudo-dragon familiar to look around but she was able to see nothing out of ordinary. Tower was silent and apparently deserted. Door was locked, windows shut and nobody answered from inside. While Ren jumped at top of the roof, Jarod checked windows for traps but forgotten to do it in case of doors. A lightning struck him, while opening locks. Once again he was hit while fumbling with mechanism, but finally opened them. Tower was small but clearly habited. There were rooms like study, kitchen, dining room or bedchamber. Ren was descending from top, while rest party climbed up by stairs. While they were searching room after room, he was attacked by terrible creature, that turned out to be a night hag. She cast a Silence spell, so Ren could not cry for help. Moreover, his hits was apparently not affecting her. Finally party met at top of the tower and defeated villain. In room next to smashed study, the found Andru, binded and starving. He confessed he was betrayed by one, whom he considered true friend, a love of his life, which in true was monster in disguise.

Andru was not able to help with travel to Netheril. He said, he was given a scroll with time Conduit spell as a reward for his help and services for City of Brass. He was longing to go back to "those truly wonderful, but alas, lost times!". Heroes decided to seek a time gate located in Vilhoon Reach and set off.

Behind the Screen
- We have a new player, a Paweł. He chose to play wizard and I'm glad, as he read rules and learned them by the heart. Contrary to former wizard, he was able to learn his spells correctly, choose feats so they were logical and helpful for party. I'm glad to have decent and nice fellow in group.

- The adventure I ran was taken from Castles&Crusades quick start. It was nice, short scenario, that consisted some mysteries, combat and exploration.

- No mistakes in combat!

- I ordered final, printed version of Pathfinder Core Rulebook and Bestiary as well.

Chapter Four: The Sword Coast - Session 32 - Good news from the Sword Coast - part 2

After defeating Elemental Overlord, heroes saw other outsiders withdraw to their's home plane. The only trace of their existence were rebuild quarry and six gems, that were means to summon earth creature to do it's master bidding.

Heroes returned to Candlekeep and issued report to captain of the Flaming Fist watch. After a conversation about who or what wanted Tower of Knowledge being push down to the sea, part went to search for shipwright to repair damaged hull. The found one and made an agreement, so they were free to explore great libraries. Topics they were concerned with were various and different, ranging from Netheril's history, Karsus endeavors, Spellplague's portents and informations about Abeir. Connal, Jarod, Ren and Avelon with Gorma sat down to discuss research strategy. It was obvious field of work was wide and they had little experience. Most of all, time was running fast, as one can enter libraries only for one tenday a month. At first heroes thought of hiring a scholar, who would be given time for his or hers own research but no trustworthy candidate was chosen. Finally group decided to search for knowledge on it's own.

As it turned out, books were scattered around whole library complex, so the had to work in smaller groups. Avelon researched portents, Gorma and Jarod Netheril's geography, while Connal and Ren concentrated on arcane and planes knowledge. Heroes managed to meet with Bookkeepers and in exchange for help they allowed copy a mysterious scroll, that was able to bring a past to life.

Research was fruitful. Avelon discovered that Spellplauge was supposed to be magical disaster, caused my Mystra's death at hands of Shar and Cyric. Heroes were dreaded but prophecy was so cryptic and unclear, they were not able to learn details. Gorma meanwhile learned with Jarod's help some details of Netherill's geography, nature of floating domains and some other things. Connal and Ren discovered that in fact they are not seeking Karsus but his mentor Iolaum. While Karsus was most powerful of all Netheril's archwizards, it was Iolaum who was considered the wisest one and created most amazing feats of long gone magic arts. It was he, who discovered mythallar, elected first flying enclave, wrote down many spells. Most of all, Iolaum was the longest living human in whole Toril's history.

During the research, heroes learned of other scholars, studying in Candlekeep's library. some of them were researching knowledge connected with party's deeds and interests. among most intriguing were:

Sassuth - Red Wizard of Thay in search of some occult knowledge.
Korvos - a warlord from the North.
Koja - a Tuigan monk-historian, lama from mysterious Red Mountain.
Askeban Grimm - priest of Bane, openly displaying his faith.
Istriel, an an elf on quest for knowledge concerning Nordmen raiding his homeland.
Old  Chestnut - a tree-like druid searching for information about Trees of Life.

It was eight day of course, when Connal discovered his notes and books were different. It was surprising, as he remembered clearly, what has he written previous day. He mentioned it to one of elder library monks but dismissed his saying. Then Ren was approached by one of lesser clerks who demanded to stop inquiries or he  and his coworkers will be punished. He revealed, some books are being changed, their texts altered and warped. Connal and  Ren began look around and soon discovered that meaning of most of them was to make Cyric a great, omnipotent, omnipresent and most revered deity in all world and in all time.
In Candlekeep crime against book is more grievous than treason against human. Punishment is served quickly and without remorse and falls upon both offender and guardian, who let text to suffer. So it was clear that whole intrigue was to be dealt with silence, patience and care.

At first heroes tried to identify "infected books". With whole list, they compiled another list, this time with names of people, who read, burrowed or even flipped them. It provided few names: Avelon, Cyric's servant and priest of Bane among them. Than heroes began to closely watch suspects but were not able to identify offender. It was obvious that process of altering books takes place in night, when no one is allowed to stay there. With a help of clerks, party hid in private reading room and at night emerged to look for a forger.

Indeed, the found him at main desks with hands on two tomes. A dark illumination glowed around them, as he was reshaping history written on their pages. Jarod and Ren allured enemy and assaulted him, while Connal charged. Despite being outnumbered, K was fighting fiercely and once again Connal's healing power saved his friends from death. Cyric's chosen was a fierce and experienced combatant, learned also in ways of backstabbers, so he stand firmly. In the end he was defeated and fallen down, bleeding from wounds, giving his soul to his dark master.

Behind the screen
- Connal reached 13th level of experience.
- Combat was adequate: not too long, not too short. I designed enemy as a "critical striker", but alas, my bad luck with rolls smiled upon me and was not able to inflict more than one hit.
- We will have a new player in group.