CHAPTER 4 - Hullath'mir Ergmise - The Waters of Deathly Tears

With the rising sun your mind clings to the fragments of dream that linger from your drunken slumber.

An altogether alien yet strangely familiar voice echoes through long silent chambers, it speaks a tongue that you do not understand, yet your mind fills with words, images and concepts that make perfect sense.

One voice becomes many as you attune your mind to the cacophonous thoughts that fill this ancient and crumbling structure.

“Xhagevoxhab has returned to his prison my lord, the wanderer without aided the prophesised to the Crown of Blibdoolpoolp. Now he must leave them to follow his own path.”

“What of the second hand bathed in blood? Do they exhibit signs or portents that are relevant to the Prophecy's current course?” comes a regal sounding reply.

“Their part is unclear master. Malsheem has sent many forces, it is feared that the cell that landed in Stormreach are employing Yuggoloths to secure their place in the weaving of this vast web.”

“My master,” comes another voice from the mayhem, “We have reports of cysts opening throughout Droaam spilling hordes of Kaorti into the ranks of Jaerdrael Keep. They bring Skybleeders with them and early reports indicate they plan to move east in search of Kra’T Ymraag Draal. Zul has been gifted with the ‘Ebon Seal’ and has begun creating his undead abominations beneath the circle there, yet there are abominations rising from Khyber to battle him even as we speak.”

“Then Zaphkiel is being sought. How do the tides of battle fare on Shavrath?”

“The celestials are still struggling with the Abyss, my Lord. The denizens of Hell are merely fuelling the fire with political interference. There is no sign of the battle turning.” comes the reply. “Kirx Katech is awaiting the arrival of the prophesised and they are moving to protect the Oboxian Tablets."

Silence falls for a few brief moments.

The Lord's voice begins once more.

“333 are the Atropal Lachryma, the Tears of Atropos that fell to Eberron, all have been retrieved by the Ashen Covenant. Shothragot, the Patient One stirs and the Gilded Man has still not been located, his prison of the Sundered Tower lies somewhere within the roiling shadows of Mabar. The first sign of the Restless Dead is manifesting, there is word of the newly dead rising from their graves across Eberron, and Atropals have been seen falling from the World Born Dead, surrounded by clouds of their scions and the surge of negative energy has drawn dark angels from caverns deep beneath the Thunder Sea. Once the sigils burn in the sky we are all but lost. The time nears with increasing rapidity, we are losing the periphery of our realm, the towers are crumbling and still the child is not safe. We must all persevere and guide lest the battle begin without the pieces in place.”

The Crimson Fists awaken with heads throbbing from strange, visionary dreams (and massive hangovers). Over a quiet breakfast Father Jack informs them he feels his destiny takes him elsewhere. He will travel with them as far as the expedition though.

The treasure recovered from the tomb is examined and divided up. Lorric receives an item which increases his Wisdom and a Ring of Freedom of Movement, Oz takes his old Wisdom item, Kapek receives a magical spear and Ajax a strange Kuo-Toa weapon called a Pincer Staff, a staff with a closable collar on the end. Although imbued with mighty magics Ajax has never used such a weapon before and intends to turn it into ready cash at the first opportunity.

With everybody ready the Fists set off into the jungle with the cheers of the town ringing in their ears.

They travel all day through the blistering jungle heat before setting up camp under the beautiful clear sky and watching the showers of shooting stars that illuminate that night.

The second days journey is as uneventful as the first.

Mol 2nd Barrakas, 998 Y.K.

On the third day they come in sight of a camp flying the banner of House Sivis, they have finally reached the expedition they were hired to protect all those weeks ago. The leader of the guard greets them warmly and takes them to a tent in the centre of the camp. There they are introduced to two gnomes; Professor Melurit the head of the expedition and his scribe Abonwick.

Less welcoming are the two carefully wrapped bodies resting inside the tent. The Professor explains these are the bodies of the last two emissaries he sent to negotiate with the local Drow. Melurit wishes for the Fists first task to be to take their place and speak with the Drow.

It is too late for the Fists to set off now and so they settle down for a meal around the camp-fire while Melurit briefs them on the ruins the expedition is here to explore and the rain clouds that eternally hover over them, turning the land around into a treacherous marsh. (The similarity to the clouds plaguing Sharn is lost on no-one). He also informs the groups that the Drow seem to be particularly hostile because of a prophecy of theirs.

As they talk Melurit spots Kapek's Dragonmark, he calls over the expeditions House Jorasco healer who examines it with great interest. It seems to be a Mark of some power.

Zol 3rd Barrakas, 998 Y.K.

The next morning the Fists set forth to talk to the Drow. Jack is first bid farewell with fond wishes by the group and with his tiger in tow he sets off on his own journey.

To reach the Drow the Fists must descend a cliff, this almost immediately leads to violence as Reaver is set against the idea and prepared to maul anyone who attempts to force him. This requires some persuasion on Kapeks part before Reaver is convinced to allow himself to be secured and lowered down the cliff. Eventually though the group reach the bottom intact. Lorric notices a Drow observing them from concealment and so he sneaks off and creeps up behind the Drow before introducing himself to the startled elf. Pleasantly the Drow is not overtly hostile merely saying if the Fists can reach the leaders of his people they will be allowed to speak to them. The Drow will not interfere, they will just watch.

The group make their slow way through the swamp without incident. Stopping at nightfall to make camp. At 10 o'clock as those on watch are enjoying the sight of another shower of shooting stars, Lorric notices dark shapes rising against the night sky to meet the falling stars.

At 2.00 Oz and Lorric hear wing-beats approaching from the East and feel a strange chill in the night air. Quickly they wake their comrades and as the Crimson Fist arm themselves they see strange spectral figures sheathed in darkness, approaching them. Remembering they are about to give battle in a swamp Ajax uses his sandals to cast Water Walk on everyone.

As the creatures close in a tightening ring on the Fists Lorric simply charges them and slays one. Suddenly a feeling of death and corruption washes over the group, birds drop from the air killed instantly. Heads snap up to see a horrid creature hovering above the group, an Atropal Scion. Before they can react the Fists are blasted with a Cone of Cold by it.

The creatures on the ground are now close enough to be identified as Wraiths, though two appear larger and more impressive and are probably Dread Wraiths. Like a noose the seven creatures move in on the Fists from all sides, while above the wing-beats circle the group.

As the Wraiths reach striking range Kapek unleashes the full power of his Dragonmark and a Mass Heal spell bursts from him. No match for this power the five lesser Wraiths evaporate into nothingness and the two Dread Wraiths stagger under this assault of positive energy. Off balance they are soon finished off by Ajax and Lorric. (While Oz curses the fact they are, yet again, fighting undead).

A second Atropal Scion swoops in from behind and unleashes another Cone of Cold. The first hovers 50 feet above the group letting his aura spread fear and despair into their hearts. The wing-beats descend and at the edge of their vision a strange, rotting creature appears and shuffles towards them.

The second Atropal Scion is hovering 20 feet above the ground, no doubt feeling safe at that height but Ajax is suddenly struck by an idea (a good one for once). Whipping out the Pincer Staff he charges the creature, the Staff is ten feet long and with the arts of the Warshaper Ajax's arms grow longer and suddenly twenty feet is within range. Ajax slams the creature with the Staff twice and then snaps the collar shut around its neck and with a heave of his arms, slams it into the ground. Lorric is on it like a shot and the last thing to go through the creature's mind is Lorric's tankard.

The first Atropal Scion sweeps in and blasts the group with yet another Cone of Cold. As does a third one, this final blast is too much for poor Reaver and it topples to the ground its mighty heart stopped forever.

*Kapek comments

Kapek is consumed by grief and rage, as if a part of his soul has been ripped away. But he feels guilt as well; it took a lot of persuasion to get his agitated mount down the cliff and Kapek now fears that Reaver could sense his coming doom.

The rotting creature continues its ominous advance, the ground and vegetation around it rotting into corruption.

With a scream of rage Kapek unleashes a swarm of Force Boomerangs at Reaver's killer. Ajax charges the first Atropal Scion and again strikes it twice before ensnaring it with the Pincer Staff and slamming it into the ground where Lorric leaps on it and makes short work of it.

*Ajax comments

And to think Ajax was planning to sell this wonderful weapon. If it continues to be this useful he may even learn how to fight with it.

The Rotting creature fixes Ajax and Lorric with its gaze. To his horror Ajax feels his skin start to rot. The creature follows this up with a storm of claw attack and buffets from its wings.

Oz runs over to the sorely wounded Kapek and heals him with his 'Healing Belt' while Kapek continues to pummel Reavers slayer with Force Boomerangs. While Ajax engages the Rotting creature Lorric leaps up and strikes the last Atropal Scion, this and more boomerangs finish the creature.

Ajax meanwhile is in dire trouble, under the rotting creature's relentless assault he is taking wound after wound until only the temporary vitality of his Shifted state is keeping him alive. Just in time Lorric charges the Rotting creature from behind and it diverts its attention to him. Trapped between Lorric and Ajax, it soon falls.

Mirra quickly applies healing magic to the group as all are sorely wounded. All are also aware of the sound of wing-beats receding into the distance.

Healing done all that is left to do is build a pyre for Reaver and send him on his final journey in a suitable manner.

Far 6th Barrakas, 998 Y.K.

The sun rises on another hot and humid day and after prayers the Crimson Fist press on through the swamp. Lorric scouts ahead of the group, using his skills to pass silently and unseen through the undergrowth.

As the journey takes you further east and deeper into the swamp you judge that you have travelled some 70 miles or so and are nearing the centre of the vast and fetid basin. Above and ahead you can see the solitary swirling cloud that perpetually rains, its distance is unperceivable as no other clouds offer any source of perspective. As the sun passes its zenith the jungle around you deepens, shadows grow deeper as the canopy overhead becomes a heavy tangled mass of mosses and lichens. The occasional shaft of light illuminates a struggling patch of ferns here and there offering a faint green luminescence as the light bounces from the fronds.

From somewhere ahead you hear sounds of movement, and catch faint glimpses of the shadows moving. The hot, humid air seems to thicken and every breath has to be forced, your lungs finding little sustenance beneath the dark canopy. Motion crawls over almost every surface that you can see, seemingly a thick carpet in some places merely a few lone scorpions in others, their black chitinous shells shining like gems 

Words are uttered from the darkness ahead; although you do not recognise them you are more than aware of the power that they carry.

Ahead you see the shafts of light grow fewer in number and less intense, without the eyes of the drow the darkness grow all but impenetrable smothering you in a veil of utter blackness. The air seems to grow thin as the humidity rises and your head swims as your lungs pant for oxygen.

After travelling for a good portion of the afternoon you see the canopy begin to thin ever so slightly, the light becomes like that of early twilight and you see a dark rocky outcrop ahead. A stream runs from a tunnel at the base of the cliff, and to the left an almost imperceptible set of steps are carved into the rock face where they meet a door some fifty feet above the waters. Perched upon platforms to either side of the door and crouched around the lip of the rock-face you see dark-skinned figures, flashes of white paint adorning their midnight faces.

You soon feel firm ground underfoot and the familiar sound of boots upon rock resounds in your ears as you are led up the stairs.

The door opens and you are led into a natural rock hallway, steps lead up on either side and ahead you can hear the sound of rushing water. The walls are decorated with rough tribal depictions of scorpions and what seem to be large portions of insect carapace, claws and stingers are placed with seemingly religious reverence. In fact as you watch you see several smaller specimens crawl from cracks in the walls.

A pair of imposing figures blocks the way ahead, each bears a chain with dagger-like blades at each end poised and readied to strike.

Spoken in elven.

“At ease”, comes a soft voice from behind them, “Let us listen to what the light-dwellers have to say this time.”

“Yes Mistress” they reply in unison before dropping to one knee to either side of the strikingly beautiful and regal drow.

“Fall before Matron Shi’Na” demands one of you captors in the common tongue, before you are forcefully shoved to the ground.

“Let them speak” come the soft voice from the Matron, “Let the pale ones inform us of why they continue to pollute our lands with their presence, let them tell us why they continue to bring death.”

Turning to facethe group she speaks, this time in common.

“Welcome to the fallen empire of Kerrick Mal’irak, the dead temple-city dedicated to Ouralon, purged by the might of Vulkoor. Speak your purpose.”

Around noon movement is spotted ahead of the group and muttered words of power are heard. The Fists, apart from the hidden Lorric, feel their limbs stiffen into immobility as they are paralyzed where they stand.

Invisible creatures splash through the water towards the Fists and as they strip them of their weapons and gear the magic cloaking them fades and they are revealed as Drow warriors. The Fists are then bound with rope and only then does the Drow leader appear. She instantly recognizes the group is down a member and loudly demands Lorric show himself, unsurprisingly Lorric declines the offer.

The leader turns to the now unparalyzed Fists and informs them they will be taken to the leader of the Drow. The Fists are not pleased by their treatment but decide to co-operate and set off with the Drow and with Lorric trailing them.

*Ajax comments

Ajax knows if he Shifts he could then use his War-Shaper talents to make his arms so thin the ropes would simply fall off. And though the Drow had taken his weapons he would still have his claws, which he prefered anyway. Ajax's aggressive spirit longed to fight back but they were there to negotiate with the Drow not fight them and the Drow seemed to want to take them to their leader. With great effort Ajax muzzled his bloodthirsty nature and accepts he will have to remain bound......... for now.

After some time the Fists and their escort arrive at a hall guarded by more Drow and taken inside. Lorric uses his 'Hat of Disguise' and disguises himself as a Drow and follows his comrades into the building. Inside the hall is decorated with murals depicting scorpions and the stingers and claws of giant scorpions decorate the hall. The Fists are guided to stand before a throne upon which resides the Matron of the Drow of this area.

She is unamused by the fact that one of the Crimson Fists is missing and calls for Celedrus, declaring he will use his True Sight spell to discern if the missing Fist is present.

Celedrus arrives and is set to the task of searching the hall as she interrogates the Fists. The Matron demands to know why the expedition is here and the Fists explain that their goal is to uncover new knowledge. The Matron is suspicious that the troubles that have plagued her realm are the fault of the newly arrived expedition. The Fists declare that they are innocent of this and that the whole world is beset by strange events and the rise of ancient powers. The Matron is convinced enough to propose an accord, she will allow the expedition access to the ruins (under supervision) if the Fists search for a group of her people who have gone missing. Remembering the fate of the previous ambassadors the Fists readily agree.

Then to the Matron's surprise one of her Drow steps forward and joins the Fists in front of the throne. It is Lorric, who has been cunningly keeping other Drow between himself and Celedrus while this was going on, and now a deal is made rejoins the group (to the muttered comment 'show-off' from Ajax). Luckily the Matron seems both impressed and amused by this.

The Matron insists that the Fists find her people before the expedition will be allowed entry and that Celedrus will accompany them as her liaison to the expedition. The Fists find this agreeable and a deal is reached.

Celedrus introduces himself to the Crimson Fists explaining he is a Mystic Theurge and capable of casting both Divine and Arcane spells. He also explains that his background is mostly scholarly and he will require protecting in battle. To drive this point home he also points out he is the Matron's son !

The new group head off discussing their various cultures and the differences inherent in them. They travel for a few hours before stopping for the night.

In the morning Celedrus casts Shadow Walk to transport them more quickly to the area where the Drow went missing. The Fists are plunged into a mysterious realm of whirling shadow in which they travel at breath-taking speed for an hour before plunging with a burst of light into the Material Plane, right into the middle of a lake ! The Fists plunge into the water, only to be instantly shot back to the surface as Ajax uses his sandals to cast Water Walking on the group.

A quick scan of the area reveals they are in a large lake with several islands in it. It also reveals a nearby, yet dilapidated, boat into which some of the Fists climb and which the rest then push to the largest island.

On the shore of the island they find the ground littered with bones. With their senses straining for the signs of danger the group carefully move to search the island. They soon come to a gouge in the earth which ends at a tree, which suddenly lashes out to attack Kapek. It is an Ironmaw, a predatory plant creature that eats anything it can get its vines on.

The creature's vines grab Kapek but then loose when Lorric leaps behind and strikes it a blow that stuns it. The Fists scan the area and see a second, third and fourth Iron Maw approaching. Mira casts Haste and Celedrus casts Fly and heads straight up and out of danger. Ajax leaps on the first Maw and slays it with a storm of blows.

The second creature attacks Ajax, grabbing him with its vines but the hearty Shifter throws off its grip. The other two creatures approach ponderously coming under fire from Kapek's boomerangs as they do. Lorric attacks the second Maw and again stuns it, after which he and Ajax quickly finish it.

Lorric fails to stun the third and fourth Maw but they still fall under the combined assault of the Crimson Fist.

The bones, with Celedrus's permission, are searched for loot then Lorric climbs one of the dead Maws to check the area. He spots some ruins to the north and the Fists decide to investigate there. And so discussing exactly how you stun a plant anyway they move on.

Narwell

Wir, 25th Lharvion 998 Y.K.

9.00 p.m.

As the Fists approach the town they notice the gates lie open and unguarded. The streets to are empty but Lorric's sharp eyes pick out figures lurking in the nearest pair of alleys and Ajax sharp nose scents blood and fungus coming from four of the alleys.

In a burst of speed Lorric runs up to the nearest alley and addresses the figures there. His enquiries are met with the yell "For the Scarlet Lord!", and the figures attack. Lorric tumbles behind the pair and kills the rear one. The rest of the figures move into the open to attack the Crimson Fists.

One of them spits a gob of red goo at Ajax but he dodges it and attacks him striking his foe to the ground. In the alleyway Lorric's remaining opponent extrudes tentacles from his eyes and they snap at Lorrics face but miss. The creature then flees into the open, straight into Oz's line of fire and is immediately shot.

Kapek charges Reaver into the centre of the creatures and becomes the target of all four of the surviving creatures. He is soon joined by Lorric and Ajax and together they strike their foes down.

Kapek notices that Lorric's foe, struck multiple times by his flurry of blows, is oozing a red liquid that none of the other fallen creatures have. He strikes at the fallen foes with his acid dripping Tangat and all soon ooze the same disturbing red liquid.

As if to prove the wisdom of Kapek's actions the creature Lorric had dropped in the alleys emerges into the street to the rear of the group and attacks an unprepared Mirra with his disturbing eye tentacles. Oz drops it with an arrow and Ajax runs over and gleefully jumps up and down on the creature until little remains.

Observing the strange fungal growths on the bodies of their foes Kapek carefully examines Mirra's wounds, as he feared they are infected with spores of the creatures. He binds the wounds but knows he can do little to stop the infection.

The guides having delivered the Fists as far as they had been contracted to, bid them a hasty farewell and depart as fast as they can due to news that this frontier town is the target of many drow assaults and as a result they don't want to face Narwell's inhabitants.

Alone again the Fists carefully head deeper into the town. They soon find a band of survivors holed up in a house. They are briefed by Captain Timane of the town watch on the fall of the town to the strange fungus zombies that they themselves just fought. They are also told the creatures are very resistant to weapons, healing quickly from all wounds but electricity, the Fists are able to inform the Captain that acid also works this way. A cleric is summoned and he provides a potion to rid Mirra of the infection in her wounds.

The Captain asks the Fists to enter the Well from which the fungus came and destroy the source of the infection. To help them he introduces the Fists to a Druid called Jack, a tall, weathered, bearded man dressed only in a loincloth and carrying only a staff and accompanied by a tiger. Jack seems a good soul, determined to help those who cannot defend themselves and, well aware of their lack of magic, the Fists quickly agree to let him come with them.

The Fists agree to enter the sewers and are gifted with five potions of Remove Disease and four of Lesser Restoration. As they will have to enter the Well Jack is forced to leave his tiger behind and Kapek similarly leaves behind Reaver. Each informing their animal friend to be good and not eat anybody.

The group slipped quietly through the town to the Well but as they expected the Well is guarded. Spotting the ambush the group have time to cast some preparatory spells before charging into battle. Lorric and Ajax engage the enemy in melee, while Oz and Kapek pour missile fire into them. Mirra entones tales of heroism to inspire her comrades and Jack pins three of the enemy with an Entangle spell.

Suddenly a scream from their rear indicates their foes have snuck up on the rear of the group and attacked Mirra and Jack. Kapek turns to cover the rear while Lorric and Ajax hold the front line. Jack turns on his foes and his features melt into the that of a snarling tiger, he leaps on the unfortunate foe and rends them with fang and claw.

The creatures heal swiftly but Kapek's acid dripping Tangat and Ajax's lightning charged sword cut them down. Lorric compensates for not having either by hitting the creatures twice as often.

With their foes dead and the unlucky Mirra healed again the group examine the Well. Ajax climbs down to reconnoitre. The water fills the space completely, without water breathing spells they cannot go on. They have no choice but to retreat to cover until dawn when Jack can pray for such spells.

Zor, 26th Lharvion 998 Y.K.

6.30 a.m.

Come the daylight, which the Fists had been informed rendered the fungus zombies dormant, the group headed for the Well passing survivors of the town as they hurriedly went about their business while the sunlight lasts. Reaching the Well a rope is quickly secured and Jack casts Water Breathing. It is unfortunately only then that it occurs to everyone what being underwater will do to Mirra and Oz's abilities and it is decided to temporarily leave them behind as the rest of the group scout ahead.

A few preparatory spells are cast and the Crimson Fists descend into the water with Ajax in the lead. The water is obviously, and disturbingly, red with the fungus. The Fists swim through a underwater entrance and travel 270 feet down the tunnel until it widens out into a cavern with dry land leading deeper into the darkness. Lorric swims swiftly back and collects Mirra and Oz.

The Fists climb onto the land and with Oz in the lead, to spot traps, head down the tunnel. The tunnel soon leads into a cave inhabited by three human figures but covered in the all to familiar red fungus. The battle is swift and one-sided as the fungus zombies are little challenge to the Fists now they know their weaknesses. Only when the battle is over is it noticed the creatures wore the tabards of the town guard. The Fists are aware the guards were already gone but still none feel good about this victory.

The Fists move on, soon coming to a huge cavern. Here Ajax's nose picks out the scent of ozone and something reptilian. Although the thought of Blue Dragons leaps to the forefront of everyone's minds Kapek identifies the tracks he finds as belonging to a Behir. Indeed one of the creatures immediately creeps down a side wall in all its colossal glory. Lorric tries to converse with it but it soon becomes obvious the creature's only interest in the Fists is as a meal. When a second Behir appears inquiring if dinner has arrived the decision is made. Mirra casts Haste and combat ensues.

With speed boosted by the Haste, and already pretty damn fast, Ajax and Lorric blur across the cavern. Lorric sweeps behind the Behir and attacks its rear. Ajax charges across the cavern straight at the Behir, as he goes he activates the 'Braid of Dire Shifting' gifted to him by Clian and as he Shifts he grows in size until he slams into the Behir in a blur of claws. Kapek opens up with a swarm of Force Boomerangs and the Behir drops dead before it even had a chance to fight back.

On the other side of the cavern Oz opens fire on the other Behir, hitting it but unconcerned it surges forward and with a snap of its head, swallows him whole. Ajax and Lorric charge the creature in its flank and it lasts no longer than its mate. The other Fists quickly slit open its stomach and haul the unfortunate Oz out.

*Ajax comments
Even Ajax wouldn't take ears from creatures infected with the fungus so the Behirs grant him an opportunity to gather trophies from this adventure at last.

By a blackened stalactite Oz spots a loose boulder that requires every last bit of the Fists strength to move. But revealed underneath it is the Behir's treasure. Which is quickly gathered up.

Moving West the Fists eventually reach a underground river,along the bank of which are giant mushrooms that are recognized as Shriekers. True to their name they began to shriek but are soon destroyed but all are aware they will have attracted every hostile creature in the area.

In the sudden quiet, heavy footsteps are heard behind them. The Fists take positions and a Digester covered in the fungus, stomps into view. It endures a hail of arrows and boomerangs as it charges in, in return it spits acid at the group but all dodge. Suddenly a clawed hand strikes out from the wall at Mirra. A creature pulls itself out of the wall, a Xorn.

Jack transforms himself into a polar bear and attacks the Xorn, hurting it but failing to grapple it, in return it pounds hell out of Mirra. Kapek finishes the Digester and the Crimson Fist form a ring around the Xorn. It is highly resistant to their attacks and lashes out hurting Jack but eventually the sheer number of attacks brings it down.


As Mirra and Jack heal up, Ajax carefully cuts out the Digester's acid gland and decants the contents into a flask to create an improvised acid bomb. The Fists decide to head back down the tunnel the Digester had come from. As they go Kapek uses his acid dripping Tangat to burn away the fungus.
Soon tracks are noticed. Jack, Ajax and Kapek examine them carefully and deduce that they were formed by a Digester, a Gray Render and some large giant humanoid they can't quite fully identify. As they press forward the fungus seems to grow thicker than ever. As the tunnel opens into a cave the Fists spot inside four Chuul devouring some poor creature and two Ettins standing idly by them.
The Fists try to approach quietly but the Chuuls ears are sharp. One hears the footfalls and slaps the ground alerting his comrades and they charge straight at the intruders.
Ajax and Lorric quickly stand shoulder to shoulder to fill the corridor while the rest of the group gather behind them. Oz and Kapek open fire with arrows and boomerangs respectively and Mirra begins to orate tales of glory to inspire her comrades. Jack intones in a strange Druidic tongue and a line of destruction is scored across the cavern and through four of their foes as he casts Junglerazer.
The first Chuul reaches the Fists but is swiftly dispatched by Ajax and Lorric, who in return endure a hail of javelins from the Ettins. The second Chuul stops fifteen feet from the front line of the Fists and tentacles shoot out of his eyes and attack Lorric, attempting to insert spores into him.
Out ranged the Fists back into the tunnel in formation hoping to draw the Chuul after them into the narrow space (and for them to get away from the spores raised up by the fight). One of the Chuul obligingly follows them into the tunnel, his eye tentacles rake Ajax infecting him with the spores and sapping his vitality. Ajax tumbles forward and engages this Chuul, noticing as he does so the rest of the creatures slipping into a side tunnel. This Chuul soon falls with two of Oz's arrows transfixing his throat.
Cautiously the Fists move up to the cavern entrance but only one of the Chull is in sight. Ajax charges it, noticing as he passes the side tunnel the three missing foes and two new ones, two Destrachan.
Lorric joins Ajax and with ranged support from Kapek they kill their foe. The creatures in the side tunnel charge in, two attacking Lorric and Ajax. The other three heading for the rest of the Fists but are intercepted by Jack, who has Wild- Shaped into a Polar Bear.
Ajax and Lorric nimbly tumble away from their foes and charge into the rear of the creatures advancing on their comrades. Jack unleashes an Arc of Lightning on their foes and one of the Destrachan replies with a sonic burst.
Constantly keeping on the move Ajax and Lorric fall back again, charging again into the rear of their foes. Kapek charges the last Destrachan, unfortunately straight into a sonic burst!
Ajax and Lorric coming from one direction and Kapek coming from the other, have now meet up. They form a new fighting line facing off against an opponent each. Behind them Mirra chants tales of glory and Oz pounds the foes with a stream of arrows.
Finally backed into a corner the Fists face the Ettins who, not distracted by having to keep up with their elusive enemies, unleash a blizzard of attacks with their twin morningstars. Lorric takes the worst of it, sustaining heavy wounds but Jack charges in to rescue him and grapples the Ettin, simultaneously Ajax slays his opponent and Kapek wounds his deeply.
As Lorric retreats back to Mirra to be healed, Oz's arrows put down another Ettin. Lorric and Ajax close in on the last Ettin, firmly held by Jack, and finish him.

*Ajax comments

Tactically speaking Ajax is very happy with how the battle went. Their hit-and-run tactics kept the enemies off-gaurd and meant that the Ettins were constantly forced to chase them around the battlefield, never getting into a comfortable rythmn. Indeed the whirlwind of death the Ettins became with their two morning-stars in the short space they weren't forced to pursue the group showed this was definitely the best choice!
Personally Ajax was a bit horrified by how weaker he was when he didn't Shift. He knew instinctively he had only enough spiritual energy to Shift once more that day and wished to save it for the confrontation with whatever entity was behind this affair but fighting foes of this calibre without Shifting was a dicey business.


After the customary looting, the Fist continue along the tunnel. Lorric and Oz, scouting ahead, reach a junction and, hearing nothing from the left, choose to follow the right hand passage. This ends in a truly massive cavern, thickly carpeted with red fungus in most places. A domed building can be seen a little way in, looking out over the shores of a vast lake. Lorric can hear lumbering sounds coming from out of sight and carefully sneaks in to take a discreet look.
He sees two huge Grey Renders lurking in a large alcove, seemingly trapped by a similarly impressive Black Pudding, which is voraciously feeding on the clumps of red fungus around them. Using Mirra’s Message spell he confers with the others, coming to the conclusion that the Black Pudding should be left alone for the moment as it might turn on the Renders should the opportunity arise.
Lorric then initiates the combat by using his newly acquired Hammersphere to unleash a mighty spiritual hammer upon one of the Renders. With Father Jack’s acquiescence, Kapek leaps up onto his shoulders and rides forth into battle atop a new polar bear druid mount. The others also enter, and much to everyone’s disappointment the Black Pudding abandons its meal and moves towards the newcomers.
Kapek unleashes a hail of boomerangs at the pudding as it approaches, and Jack balls up his huge polar bear claws into fists in order to throw a sequence of punches at it. A slimy black pseudopod lashes out at the halfling, hitting him hard but Kapek manages to avoid most of the acid and his Freedom of Movement spell prevents the tentacle from getting a grip on him. The voice of Mirra can be clearly heard, exhorting her comrades to heroism.
The Renders are looking for the tormentor behind the spiritual hammer, but Lorric is, as usual, nowhere to be seen. Suddenly he bursts from cover, neatly running past them to join in the attack on the pudding. Ajax attacks one of the Renders with his usual enthusiasm, but is interrupted by the black pudding as it wraps a slimy acid tentacle around him. He is dragged away to be swallowed up in its loathsome black mass.
Robbed of a target, the two Renders close in on the other fight, and attack Kapek. The halfling is bloodily beaten by them, and chooses to dismount on the far side of Jack, whose blows finally bring down the pudding. It dissolves away, leaving Ajax standing in the stinking mess wearing only his chain shirt, horned helmet, and boots. The creature’s acid has destroyed all but the irate shifter’s magical gear.

*Ajax comments
A sight to terrify the most fearsome foe.

Jack then attacks one of the Renders, and is joined by Lorric who finished it off. The other Render claws at Jack, opening some nasty wounds, then clamps its jaws around Ajax. The shifter is pinned, helplessly for a moment as the creature’s teeth tear at his flesh, but then with a roar of primal rage he breaks free. Kapek and Jack rain down blows upon it, but it is the maddened Ajax who finally kills it. Mirra ceases her inspirational saga and the room falls silent again.

There follows some discussion about what to do next. Ajax wishes to stop here and rest, but Kapek feels that if they are to rest, they should return to a more secure area. Lorric wishes to push on a little. Eventually it is decided to use the scouts to check out the domed building ahead.
Lorric and Oz ascend the stairs, which are free of the scarlet rust, and reach an ornate archway surrounded by strange sigils. Mirra is asked to interpret them, and she makes a brave attempt, but there are many obscure languages represented here. Some phrases can be understood, “Crown of Blibdoolpoolp”, “Scarlet Lord”, and it also seems that this place was once a monastery. She believes the messages to be several decades old.
Once Mirra has checked the archway for magical resonances, Lorric and Oz go through. The room beyond is again free of fungal contamination, and is covered with murals depicting a woman with lobster claws and head. Lorric suspects this to be a meditation chamber for the monks.
It commands a good view of the lake, from which the omnipresent red glow seems to be emanating, and of a large city on the lakeshore some distance away. Use of the spyglass confirms that the city is covered with the fungus. Although occasional movement is sighted, the current occupants cannot be seen. The group decide to settle in here for the day.
Mirra examines some recent etchings more carefully, discerning some odd and possibly unrelated facts:
She believes that the group are looking at the city of J’Bhulgolboth, which was recently attacked by a strong force of drow. This attack weakened the city to the point where it could not resist the rise of the scarlet rust.
The Crown of Blibdoolpoolp mentioned earlier is apparently the city temple.
The lower vaults can be accessed through the River of the Dead, which starts in the uppermost chambers.
The Sifkhu tablets are held in the Reliquary, in a massive submerged canyon.
The gnome hopes that the significance of these snippets of information will become clear later.

Zor, 26th Lharvion 998 Y.K.
7.30 a.m.


With the arrival of a new day, the refreshed Crimson Fist set off for the city. Kapek suggests walking across the layer of fungus covering the lake, and after a few cautious tests it is discovered that this is practical. During the slow and cautious walk across the lake, several of the group notice dark forms circling in the water below them. Although this does not add to the group’s piece of mind, the dark forms do not attack. On arriving at the city shoreline, the group pause and use one of their precious Remove Disease potions to help Oz who, despite the precautions taken, has become infested with red spores.
The city itself consists of a series of islands. The southernmost island is surrounded by a fifteen foot high wall, beyond which the roofs of great buildings can be seen. However it is one of the northern islands that supports a building that seems likely to be the Crown, and so the Fist make their way towards it. They pass a large pyramid on the way, and briefly take a look at it, concluding that it was probably an arena or coliseum.

Their destination is a large building with five porticos spaced evenly around it, each containing a copper statue of the lobster-woman. When the group enter one of these, some of them hear a faint voice whispering words they do not understand. Mirra identifies the language as that of the etchings, but can do no more. Once Oz has certified the entrance as safe, he and Lorric enter.
They emerge onto a small semicircular platform. In the centre of the building is a raised platform, separated from the five entranceways by a large moat. Steps lead up from the water to the platform opposite each entrance and there are five more statues of the lobster woman spaced around it. The room is dominated by a column of water reaching from the platform up to the roof. After some more discussion, Lorric decides to swim across.
As soon as he entered the water, the statues revolve to face him and lower their arms to point at him. Lightning arcs from them towards him, but the agile monk easily gets out of the way. The ghostly figure of a Kua-Toa appears and, uttering arcane phrases, causes a great chill to afflict Oz. Battle is joined.
Kapek hurls boomerangs at the figure as it vanishes, but only catches it with one. Lorric leaps across to the main platform and is promptly clawed at by the statue he lands next to. The ghost reappears next to Oz and with words of blasphemous power reaches out and stops his heart. The unfortunate elf drops dead to the ground. More ghosts appear, one attacking Lorric with the same intent. Fortunately the monk is not so easily felled and avoids the touch. Another ghost lets loose a horrifying moan, but its effects are countered by the cheering sound of Mirra’s voice as she begins her exhortations.

The furious Ajax rushes onto the small platform and promptly slays the two ghosts there with his massive claws. Kapek launches another salvo of boomerangs but fails to connect. Lorric slays his foe, as another ghost appears and throws a Sound Lance into Ajax. Kapek hurls more boomerangs at the new arrival and this time his aim is true, the creature is slain.
This seems to be the last of them. Ajax jumps across to the centre, only to be zapped and clawed. He then shatters the offending statue. With the fight clearly over, the group makes its way across to join Ajax and Lorric. The body of Oz is also brought, the Fist looking sadly at the body of another dead comrade. They then remember the scroll that they found earlier. Mirra sits down to figure out the unfamiliar divine runes and eventually is able to intone the holy words that bring their fallen friend back from the grave.

Like Ajax before him, Oz is deeply shaken by his experience of the afterlife and the consoling philosophy of Father Jack does nothing to lift his spirits.

As the Crimson Fists gather their breath a strange thing occurs. From out of nowhere flowing blue tattoos appear on Kapek's body and neck. They appear to be a Dragonmark! This is a subject of much wonder and conversation among the group (and not a little sarcasm from Ajax, who, as a Shifter, cannot be Dragonmarked).
The Fists then head up the stairs to the next level of the temple, where there is a statue of Blibdoolpoolp. Corridors behind it curve round to the right and left and the wall behind it contains many doors. Lorric tumbles behind the statue and his caution is instantly shown to be wise as it turns to attack him. The rest of the group pile on the statue and Ajax discovers to his horror that the electricity of his sword heals the creature rather than harming it. The creature ungratefully breathes a cloud of poison gas on him and then clumsily lumbers after Lorric, its lobster claws snapping together in anticipation of getting them into its foe. Even with Mirra's bardic talents the blows of the Fists barely scratch its metal frame but by sheer weight of blows it is finally brought down.

With Oz taking the lead to check for traps the Fists check the doors on the outside circumference of this circular floor. Each leads to a bare cell with two pools of water. One of the doors on the inner circumference leads to a room with a coral lectern and a larger pool of water. As Oz enters this room a strange force seizes him and hurls him into the water. As he is recovering from this shock three Kua-Toa ghosts appear and hurl lightning bolts at the unfortunate elf. They follow up with a chilling wail that leads the Fists completely unimpressed. The Kua-Toa then fade into invisibility.
One ghost appears next to Kapek and attempts to possess him but is thrown off by the Halflings iron willpower. Lorric and Ajax feel chill touches and lash out against their invisible foes. Mirra's blood runs cold as she recognizes the words to Slay Living. Despite their invisibility the ghosts are shown to be able to hand it out but not take it and are quickly dispatched.
Remembering their mission the Crimson Fists give up on searching ever room and head up to the next floor. The stairs end on this level although the column of water rises on upward. The stairs lead out onto a a large room, straight in front of the group are seven raised pools and behind them are a pair of copper doors. At the far wall is a corridor leading off to the left. There are doors on either side of the room.
As Ajax enters the room a Kua-Toa ghost attempts to cast Slay Living on him. More-or-less simultaneously a second ghost attempts to possess Oz, a third hits Ajax with yet another Slay Living, a fourth panics Jack with a ghostly wail and a fifth hits Lorric with a Sound Lance. Battle is well and truly joined!
The Crimson Fists endure a barrage of Slay Livings and Inflict Criticals but send their foes to their final rest.
The left-hand door reveals a room with several ring shaped pools and stairs leading upward. The walls are lined with religious texts. The stairs lead to the topmost room. It contains a pool of eerily glowing water, three stone slabs and two familiar looking statues of the goddess Blibdoolpoolp, two doors are at the rear of the room.
Without wasting a second Ajax simply attacks the statues which, to nobody's surprise, attack back but are dealt with with brutal efficiency.

With the statues dealt with the Fists decide to return to the floor below to explore a room which seemed to be a library. Ajax examines the pools and Mirra examines the books and Jack turns into an octopus and stretches out in one of the pools. Mirra discovers one of the books makes reference to 'The Scarlet Lord'. It tells how in ages pass the Scarlet Lord was defeated by a mighty cleric, Sifkhu, and imprisoned in magical chains at the bottom of the lake. Decades ago the Scarlet Lord partially escaped but was held at bay by spells that had been inscribed on stone tablets by Sifkhu. The books also made reference to strange scaled robes that the priests had worn to protect themselves when they went into the lake. The pools simply seem to be comfortable places to sit while reading the books.
The Fists move on to the copper doors, with Jack maintaining his octopus form to some of the groups disquiet. Oz realize the doors are trapped with a magical lightning trap and skillfully disarms it by earthing the power into one of the pools. The doors lead out onto a balcony that looks out on the ruined city and the lake.
With Oz in the lead the Fists move along the curve of this floor, exploring room by room. The first room has nothing but a statue of a Kua-Toa in it (which amazingly doesn't attack them). The next room contains various work-tables at which craftsman had once worked. Oz discovers a secret door but it just leads into the library. The final room appears to be a study of some sort. It contains a desk with a hidden compartment which holds five scrolls (One each of Cure Moderate, Cure Serious, Lesser Restoration, Remove Curse and Remove Disease.)
With this level fully explored the Crimson Fists head back up to the next floor. The first door here opens onto a large room. One half of the room is full of water apart from a small corner against the far wall on which rests a small cabinet. The other half of the room is dry and contains a wide-selection of torture instruments. As the Fists enter they notice a dark shape moving sluggishly at the bottom of the water.
Ajax moves to the edge of the water and the creature surges towards him as the stone under Ajax's feet suddenly softens. Ajax quickly leaps back before he is dropped into the water. The creature surges from the water and is recognized by the Fists from an old battle, it is a Gibbering Mouther. Its insane cries begin to bore into the brains of the Fists but Mirra bursts into song, counter-acting its power. The creature spits acid and charges.... straight onto the weapons of the Crimson Fists. Its demise is quick and messy !
Jack, still in octopus form, slips easily into the pool and then picks up Oz in his tentacles and lifts him over to the cabinet. Oz quickly discovers the cabinet is trapped by triggering it and getting a face full of gas. He quickly opens the lock and reveals six scaled robes which he grabs. Jack lifts him back to the rest of the group where Mirra quickly treats him before the poison gas does any more damage.
The next room is full of religious statuettes.
The third is an armoury, half of which is a pool of filmy water. As Ajax enters he hears chanted words and is wracked by pain as his body tries to rip itself apart. He dives out of the room and slams the door. There is a seconds respite then the voice intones again and a deathly chill grips Lorric. Lorric turns on his heel and lashes out at where he thinks the voice is coming from. He feels one blow land and the rest of the Fists join him in striking at this area, bringing an end to the ghost in a storm of blows.
The danger past Mirra examines the weapons and divines that two of them are magical. These weapons, a trident and a net are quickly grabbed by the group.
The floor completely explored, Lorric offers to try out the cloaks to see if they enable the wearer to breath under water. He dives under water and takes a deep breath, luckily the cloaks work. However as they also seem rather fragile Jack casts Water Breathing on the Fists as well.
The Fists enter the column of water and swim down into the blackness. Realising what this means Ajax gestures that they should go up. When the group emerges into the air Ajax casts Embrace the Wild on each of them from his wand

At the bottom of the column are four corridors each full of water and leading off into the blackness. In the twisting corridors beyond they find rooms where the city's dead would be placed. In some the dead remain but sensing the Fists rise from their biers to attack them but are easily dealt with even though they greatly out-number the group.
Four of the rooms have walls carved with runes that crackle with electricity, though deciding this may power the city's defences against the fungus the Fists leave them alone.
After checking dozens of rooms the Fists finally come to one with a hole in the floor that leads down into even deeper darkness.
Moving on to the final room the Fists find it full of a flickering blue light. Behind a wall there are square shapes. As they pass into the room they enter a dry area. It contains a statue of Bliddoolpoop and a necromantic laboratory. Suddenly a beam of green light lashes out of the darkness at Ajax...but somehow misses. The Fists leap on the Kua-Toa ghost which had cast this and send him to his final rest. In the room Oz discovers a hidden panel, the lock is complex but Oz eventually cracks it revealing a cache of black onyx gems.
With every room explored there is now only one way to go.

Taking a deep, and totally unnecessary, breath the Fists dive into the hole, down into the darkness beneath. Gradually the water pressure increases, making the group grateful for the Cloaks of the Deep which protect them from this. After 500 feet a faint green light become visible and the Fists emerge into a huge underwater cavern, littered with columns of crystal glowing with an eerie green light. On the wall nearest where they emerged are carved strange glyphs. Mirra examines them and decides they would create an area of non-detection.
As the Fists swim slowly into the cavern, Lorric notices a strange swirling in the water. As everybody approaches it, it starts to move towards them. Lorric and Ajax charge it, Ajax only just avoiding ripping his cloak on the crystal columns that litter the cavern. The Water Elemental, as the Fists are now sure it is, takes blows that seem to have little effect then it spins furiously creating a whirlpool that sucks Ajax into the centre of it and whirls across the cavern dashing Ajax against every available column as it goes. Only by desperately twisting so his body takes the blows does Ajax avoid having his fragile 'Cloak of the Deep' destroyed. Ajax Shifts and tears into the elemental that has captured him and in response it spits him out and charges over and sweeps up Oz and does the same thing to him.

The Elemental proves a frustrating foe, able to sweep past the Fists without taking harm and out-pace all of them but Lorric with ease. Time and again it sweeps up one of them to dash him against the crystals. Only after much effort are the Fists able to finally corner the elemental and Jack, in octopus form, finally beats it to death with his tentacles.
Suddenly Kapek's Dragonmark tattoo glows with light and a massive burst of healing magic bursts from him to fully heal all his wounded comrades. Though after the tattoo seem strangely dull in colour compared to how it looked before.
After some rather confused debate, due to the fact that no-one can speak underwater, the Crimson Fists decide to pull back to the necromantic laboratory to rest until the next day.
The rest of the day passes in peace.

Far, 27th Lharvion 998 Y.K.

7.30 a.m.

At dawn, which the Fists could tell when it arrived as Kapek's Dragonmark begins to regain its former vibrancy, they pray and then set forth to continue their quest, descending into the cavern again.
The cavern leads out onto a pit that plunges ever deeper into the unknown depths of the lake. Across the other side of the pit lies a artificial passage carved into the wall. Taking a closer look the Fists discover the passage is lined with alcoves, each one containing a 20 foot high statue of Blibdoolpoolp.
Much careful checking of the statues is done before the Fists are reasonably convinced they aren't going to try to kill them and move along the passage. They pass twenty-four statues before reaching a pair of crystal doors.
The doors open at the merest touch revealing a membrane of water filling the entrance. Piercing the membrane leads the Fists into a air-filled room. In the centre of the room lie four bodies, blasted and burned by some unknown force. Oz discovers a hidden door that leads through to a room where the floor flickers with green fire and a massive statue of Blibdoolpoolp dominates the room.
A Kua-Toa ghost appears, but encouraged by the fact that it appeared rather than trying to kill them while invisible, the Fists restrain their jumpy nerves and try to communicate with it. Somewhat to their surprise the ghost converses with them in Common. He introduces himself as Gorrkulabuk, a cleric of Blibdoolpoolp. After the Fists explain that they are here to recover the tablets of Sifkhu so they can drive back the Scarlet Lord he offers to show them were they are hidden and to deactivate the traps and wards that guard them. However he has a condition, he wants to possess one of them so he may know the truth of what they say. Unsurprisingly this is a matter of some debate with most of the Fists finding good reasons it shouldn't be them. Eventually Oz reluctantly volunteers and the spirit flows into him.
Oz/Gorrkulabuk opens a trap-door and leads the Fists down into a underground room. A room there contains five stone tablets rippling with green fire but Gorrkulabuk explains they are merely a decoy. He then opens a secret door to reveal a small room containing a sarcophagus. With some effort the heavy lid of the sarcophagus is finally slid off to reveal five tablets carved from green marble. (Though none of the Fists miss the other treasure glistening at the bottom of the sarcophagus).
Gorrkulabuk explains that if the proper incantations are read from the tablets the spells holding the Scarlet Lord in place will be renewed for another seven years. The problem is that the chains must be in sight when this is done and the Scarlet Lord is underwater and none of the Fists can intone the words underwater. Gorrkulabuk does offer another choice, the tablets contain a passage that will neutralise the chains. Then when the Scarlet Lord rises the other enchantment can be cast on the chains. In order to contain the Scarlet Lord the Crimson Fists must first free it!
No matter what the Fists decide they have learned all they can down here. They thank Gorkkalabuk who escorts them to the crystal doors and then leaves Oz's body and floats back into the temple.
The Fists make their way back to the balcony that overlooks the city and the lake and there begin the debate as to what they should do. Ajax and Mirra are in favour of releasing the Scarlet Lord in order to then perform the ritual, Kapek and Lorric against, Oz and Jack uncertain. The debate goes back and forth but eventually Jack decides with Ajax and Mirra and a decision is reached.

*Ajax comments
Ajax genuinely feels that the longer they leave the problem the stronger the Scarlet Lord will get. That they have no way of knowing who they can trust to use the tablets and that even if they could find such people the Scarlet Lord will break free before they can bring them to the lake. He genuinely feels all this is true but what he mostly feels is he REALLY wants to fight a god.


*Kapek comments
After the fiasco at Olman Isle and the group's manipulation by the aboleth, Kapek is extremely cautious about releasing - even temporarily - another of these abominations.

A decision made, plans are formed. Jack will Wild-Shape into a pegasus and carry an invisible Mirra who will be using the tablets. Oz, Kapek, Lorric and Ajax will remain on the balcony to engage the Scarlet Lord and distract it for long enough for Mirra to cast the ritual, which she expects will take her about a minute.
As ready as they're ever going to be, Mirra casts the ritual to neutralize the chains binding the Scarlet Lord. The second she finishes, she hurriedly casts Haste and then sings to inspire her comrades as the lake bubbles ominously as something huge and foul rises from its depths.
Mirra has only just finished when a huge creature resembling a giant, red worm fringed with tentacles emerges from the lake and begins to advance on the four on the balcony. Mirra begins the ritual and her comrades open up with a hail of arrows, force boomerangs and shot. Which barely scratch the monstrous creatures hide. Seeing this Oz pulls back to behind the other three ready to spring forward and use his Healing Belt on any mortally wounded comrade.
Precious seconds pass as the creature oozes to the base of the tower and then up to the balcony but thirty seconds still remain when the Crimson Fists stationed there come face-to-face with the Scarlet lord. With claw, tankard and tangat they attack it and it replies with teeth and tentacle. Its teeth do terrible damage and its tentacles grasp at everyone but due to the Freedom of Movement spells cast on them have no purchase.

*Oz comments
Which as Oz is the only one of the four without a Freedom of Movement cast on him makes him even more sure that he had the right idea when he withdrew behind the others.

The seconds tick by with mighty blows given and taken until suddenly Mirra's voice reaches a triumphant climax and the chains draping the Scarlet Lord burst into dazzling green fire. With ear-shattering cries the abomination is dragged back into the dark waters of the lake and disappears beneath its surface.
Yells of triumph echo around the empty city as the fungus fades from the lake and one by one the fungus zombies slump dead in the streets. With glad cries the ghostly shapes of Kua-Toa rise from the city and vanish as their spirits are freed to move on. All that is left is for the Fists to nip back to the underwater temple and loot the sarcophagus and then they begin the journey back to the sunlight.

When they emerge into the light (which instantly disintegrates the Cloaks of the Deep of those Fists who hadn't packed them in a extra-dimensional space) the people of the city above have already begun to clear up the mess and the Fists are greeted as heroes. They retire to the inn where the celebrations can begin and Mirra can tell the story of their glorious deeds (although she leaves out the bit that the chains will begin to fade again in seven years).
Later the Fists take the Captain of the City Guards to one side and explain the truth to him. He requests the tablets so the city can be prepared next time and the Fists give them to him. He generously rewards the group with gems, though Jack true to his Vow of Poverty gifts his to the local priest to aid in the rebuilding.

"Lord of the Scarlet Tide",

Dungeon Magazine 85. Written by James Jacobs

Welcome to the Jungle

Far, 20th Lharvion 998 Y.K.

The next morning after prayers Sparky casts True Seeing in the hope that if the Librarian is part of the crew he will be able to see him for what he truely is. The crew seem all as they should be but he does observe two strange creatures observing them from the Ethereal Plane. When the creatures notice Sparky watching them they disappear away without a word.

The Fists decide to first visit the Brelish ambassador but as they disembark the Southern Sun they are approached by a young boy bearing a message. The message is from Malketh asking Lorric if he will fight tonight, to which Lorric gives an evasive answer. Wide-eyed with hero worship the boy asks Lorric for an autograph. Then, clutching it reverently, he heads off telling anybody who will listen that that was Lorric who will be fighting the Champion tonight. As the Fists head on they hear the rumour spreading behind them.

The deal with the Ambassador goes smoothly with the map being exchanged for the promised 10,000 gold in cash and a 50,000 letter of credit. With the money nestling comfortably in their pockets the Fists head to the 'Citadel of the Twelve' in the hope of finding their employer Professor Melurit. They are quickly taken to a Lady Mordwyn d Sivis, an elderly female gnome. She informs them that they are late and the Professor has left ahead of them but had left behind the names of some trustworthy guides, G'elding Phyxlaunth and Tathrysn Quelnar, two dark elves who could be found at The Ship's Cat.

The Fists return to the Southern Sun and speak to Captain Nose-Chewer, who informs them that Sszyl Zszton was offering 35,000 gold for the Siren's Teat. They discuss the matter with the Captain and decide to accept the offer. (Though they realize after the Harbour Master and The Bilge Rats get their cut they'll be getting 30,000). The papers are quickly drawn up and signed and the money split between the Crimson Fist and Captain Nose-Chewer and his crew.

While the papers are being drawn up Lorric arranges for posters to be placed around town advertising a fight between him and the Champion, to take place in four months time. He also dispatches a note to Malketh explaining that he cannot fight the Champion until he has discharged his obligation to guard the expedition.

Then to The Ship's Cat where they find their guides and make arrangements to leave that very evening. Although due to the thick jungle canopy Kapek decides to leave Hurricane behind and arranges stabling for his beast with House Vadalis.

That done and final supplies bought the Crimson Fist and their guides depart the city. They only get a couple of hours out of town before night falls and they make camp. As they settle in Lorric receives a Sending from Malketh telling him to return or be forcibly brought back.

10.00 p.m.

On the first watch Kapek sees a shimmering appear in front of them that resolves into a portal leading to a stone room which contains two Giants, Malketh, the Champion and a robed figure. (Sparky breaks into a cold sweat at the thought of how powerful the Caster who created this portal must be). Malketh asks if Lorric will return to fight in the arena, Lorric declares he must fulfill his other contract first. Meanwhile Mirra and Sparky fail miserably to Dispel the Teleportation Circle.

Suddenly four creatures, that Ajax identifies as Quaraphons, wearing breast plates and carrying great clubs swarm out of the room into the forest. Lorric uses his Necklace of Fireballs to launch a fireball at the creatures but it detonates on a Wall of Force that lies between them and the Crimson Fists. The two Giants follow the Quaraphons out of the portal. The Crimson Fists guides flee into the night to no complaints as they were hired to guide, not fight.

Oz, situated on the right flank of the group just past the edge of the Wall of Force, opens fire on the enemy drawing three of them away to attack him. Seeing this he pulls back towards the rest of the group firing as he goes.

Mirra, alone on the left flank and behind the Force Wall casts Glitter Dust on the remaining enemies but finds it immediately dispelled. She quickly hides and before she can be discovered Lorric, Kapek and Ajax round the Wall of Force and dive into the enemy threatening her. Sparky, cursing his encumbering plate mail, casts Fly on himself and soon catches up with his comrades.

Mirra inspires with tales of heroics as Ajax, Kapek and Lorric engage the foe with many a powerful blow both given and recieved (though more given) and Sparky hovers behind them applying healing magic as needed. The three creatures that had persued Oz realize their mistake and run back to the main fight but arrive too late and too spread out to really help. The fight is going well for the Crimson Fist but all wonder when the Champion and the robed spell caster will get involved ?

As if in answer the Champion, borne by her batwings, flies into the clearing and challenges Lorric to single combat. Lorric, currently occupied killing a Giant, declines. She repeats her challenge asking him to face her, his sister.

She then flies to hover over the combat and Lorric leaps into the air striking at her and stunning her, causing her to plummet out of the air. Ajax and Kapek come to an unspoken decision to let Lorric handle her in single combat and turn their full attention to defeating the last of their other opponents.

The Champion struggles to her feet and is instantly stunned again by Lorric. The final Giant is slain by Ajax and instantly the portal vanishes as does the prone body of the Champion.

*Ajax comments
On the off chance the entire fight has been magically transmited to the crowd in the arena Ajax makes sure to declare himself loudly so all will know who this handsome, deadly Shifter was.

One Quaraphon is left alone in the clearing. It starts to carefully back off. The Fists give it to understand they will not harm it and it turns and flees into the jungle. (Though away from Stormreach they notice, which makes them wonder if the poor thing had been one of Malketh's slaves).

The group fall to discussing their plans. Lorric wants to return to Stormreach immediately to settle things with Malketh and find out what has happened to his mother and his relationship with his newly found sister. Ajax feels they must honour their contract to the Professor and go to help the expedition. Kapek understands and sympathises with both views but feels Lorric's loyalty to his family must outweigh his loyalty to the Professor. Finally Sparky suggests they wait until morning when he will pray for the spells to inquire of the Storm for answers that will hopefully help make their decision easier.

The fact that all hope the mysterious spellcaster is a mercenary who will be gone by then also features in this decision.

Sar, 21st Lharvion 998 Y.K.

The next morning, as planned, Sparky cast 'Commune' to answer the many questions of the Crimson Fists.

1. Is the Champion really Lorric's sister? - Yes
2. Is Lorric's mother alive? - Yes
3. Is Lorric's Mother in peril? - Unclear
4. Was last nights fight shown in the arena? - No
5. Does Malketh actually know where Lorric's Mother is? - Unclear
6. Will Malketh attack again if we move on to join the expedition? - No
7. Will Malketh interfere in other ways? - No
8. Is Lorric's mother human? - No
9. Is she fiendish? - No
10. Is she an extra-planar being? - No

*Ajax comments
Ajax is bitterly disapointed to hear that last night's fight was not shown in the arena.

Sparky then cast a Sending to Malixendria the Champion:

"Lady I am a comrade of your brother. He would be grateful for information on his mother and Malketh's plans for him."

He quickly received a reply from her :

"Our mother is imprisoned within an iron fortress on the plane of Pazunia. I do not know of Malketh's plans for you. Send Lorric apologies."

In light of the new information the matter is debated again and the decision made to carry on and join up with the expedition. Following their guides the Fists head into the depths of the jungle, with Ajax delightedly trying out his newly improved sense of smell on the plants.

Several days of peaceful travel pass.

Mol, 23rd Lharvion 998 Y.K.

In the morning the Fists approach a ruin of gigantic stone buildings. The guides identify it as Hrek'Ix Gerak which translates as 'Prison of the Primeval' in Giantish. It is said to have a strange effect on the vegetation that grows within it and on anybody who stays there too long, and it is reputed to be home to some secret, ancient power.

As the Fists enter the ruins they spot movement and notice weird, scorpion like creatures observing them from the ruins. Mirra addresses them in Giantish and they set off a weird ullulating cry that echoes eerily around the desolate ruins and is answered by identical cries from in front and behind the Crimson Fists !

As more of the creatures appear, one of them addresses Mirra in Common and tells her to prepare to be eaten. With where each side stands clearly defined the Fists prepare to fight. Sparky casts Bull's Strength on Ajax, Lorric uses a wand to cast Mage Armour on himself and Mirra casts Haste on the group. In response Ajax, Kapek and Mirra are outlined by aura's of violet fire as one of the Scorpionfolk casts Faerie Fire on them.

Lorric and Ajax rush forward and engage one of the Scorpionfolk each, dealing powerful blows but wounding themselves on the strange thorns that grow from the creatures. Two large boars join the seven Scorpionfolk and all advance on the Crimson Fists.

Kapek finishes Ajax opponent with a volley of Force Boomerangs and Sparky casts Fly on himself. Lorric's opponent changes into a bird and flies up to a crumbling tower above the battleground. Mirra begins to recite tales of adventure and inspired Lorric and Ajax slay one of the boars.

Yet more Scorpionfolk arrive and two level lances, stir into a frenzied rage and charge Ajax, piercing him through, only the enhanced constitution of his Shifted forms keeps Ajax alive as he is run clean through by both lances.

*Ajax comments
Ajax has never, NEVER, been hit as hard as by the lances of those two Scorpionfolk!

The ruins shake and vegetation is flattened as a Colossal scorpion thunders into view behind the Scorpion folk. The Fists gape as the full forty foot of its glistening body heaves into view. The decision is made without need for speech at that very second, it is time to run !

Sparky raises forty feet straight up into the air and with his Rod of Frost casts Wall of Ice at a strategic point, cutting all but two of the enemies off from the Crimson Fist.

In an obvious attempt to slow down their retreat the area containing Kapek, Mirra and Oz sprouts jagged spears of stone from the ground, making movement difficult and dangerous. Oz stealithly flees and Kapek jumps into Reaver's sadlle and Mirra climbs up behind him.

Ajax and Lorric turn and, with a considerable turn of speed, run into the jungle leaving most of the Scorpionfolk hammering desperately at the Wall of Ice. The rest of the group are terrified as another scorpion of colossal seize emerges behind them and snatches Kapek straight out of his saddle in its huge claws. Not only is Kapek held fast by the fearsome creature but Mirra finds herself alone on a fierce creature she has no idea how to control. Sparky swoops down and casts Freedom of Movement on Kapek. Agilely Kapek drops to the ground, comes up in a roll, leaps into Reaver's saddle and with a "Heigh ho Reaver away!" gallops into the jungle.

Sparky's brave manoeuvre had left him hovering in front of the Scorpion to cast his spell with lightning speed it responds, seizing him in its claw, only for his skill with 'Travel' magic to show as he slipped effortlessly from its claws. The creature was not finished though its other claw smashed brutally into the unfortunate Cleric and then its stinger snapped forward piercing him through the heart and dropping him dead to the ground. The sky darkened and rain poured down on the battlefield as the loyal servant of the Storm breathed his last.

The plants around Ajax try to grasp him but he slips out of their grip, casts Entangle from his Hand of the Oak Father item behind him to slow the enemies advance and then flees.

With heavy hearts at the loss of Sparky the Crimson Fists flee into the jungle.

The next morning all the Fists pray to the Storm to welcome its brave servant, who had died saving a comrades life, into his eternal embrace.

Two days of peaceful, but sad travel followed until that evening they come into sight of the frontier town of Narwell.