With a mission to accomplish the Crimson Fist decide to rest until the next dawn to replenish their strength. They pass out through the crystal cave where they exchange a few polite words with the dragon, who turns Lorric's offer to spar down politely and promises to stop the monsters returning in the tower.
*Ajax comments
Ajax is embarrased when the Dragon reveals he is picking up the surface thoughts in their minds. This is because he happened to be staring at Katerina and really didn't want to share those thoughts with a stranger.
They then head up to the Autumn level where they settle down for the night.
Zol 10th Nymm, 998 Y.K
After dawn has come and spells have been prayed for the group approach the double-doors. Ajax translates the writing on the doors as "Dance in the cold and let your legs feel like clams", though strangely nobody else believes he got it right.
Anvil examines the door and finds it not trapped but locked and with the wood warped so the door is jammed shut. Anvil laboriously picks the lock then casts 'Bull Strength' on Ajax, Kapek and Lorric and 'Mage Armour' on Lorric. The three of them put their shoulders to the door and push, the doors creak in protest then suddenly burst open.
8. The Meeting Hall
The temperature in this room is several degrees lower than the rest of the structure; a low mist clings to your feet. Two rows of 5 pillars support an ornately carved and painted ceiling, depicting an image of the night sky. Each pillar is coated with a thick growth of ivy as are the walls. Tiny specks of light dance through the leaves, they appear to be fireflies or some other insect.
A huge tapestry hangs on the northern wall depicting a pair of satyrs in an act of passion, surrounded by detailed knot-work designs.
The Crimson Fist moves along the room revealed to the far end. Anvil carefully examines the tapestry and discovers it is magical. When he intones the command word the scene depicted in the tapestry comes to life. To Ajax's delight and Katerina's horror (and Anvil's complete non-comphrension) the Nymph and Satyr engage in exercises of a carnal nature.
9. The Waiting Room
An empty pool stands in this room, corridors lead east and west. A bench has been built around the pool as though it was once a place where folk could sit and reflect. The curved wall to the north was once painted with a vibrant vision of what could possibly be Thelanis or possibly Lammania
When the tapestry is pulled back it reveals a door. Beyond is a room with corridors leading off to the east and west. Lorric hears strange noises coming from each corridor.
14. Sirine Communal Room
A makeshift, but obviously well used, fire-pit sits at the centre of this room. Cushions made of thick moss and leaves line the rooms edge. Two doors leave this room the one to the west has been packed with moss and fabric, it looks as though the inhabitants are trying to prevent draughts coming from whatever is behind.
To the left is a door which opens to reveal a small room, with two corridors leading off from it. Inside the room is a strange woman, singing a mournful song. Ajax identifies her as a SIRINE, normally a happy Fey that loves to sing and dance.
The Sirine's song tries to seize control of the groups minds but they resist its effects and try to convince her of their peaceful intentions but when they mention they come from Palomino she breaks into a piercing scream.
Ajax leaps at her but because he is trying to subdue her his attack misses. Suddenly from one of the corridors emerges a black, oily looking form. A SCRAG, a form of aquatic troll. Lorric immediately attacks it.
Anvil casually knocks the Sirine unconscious. Katerina, who is still in the main room, yells that other creatures are coming. Ajax Shifts and moves up behind Lorric, stretching his limbs to engage the same Scrag Lorric is fighting. More singing comes from outside the room but has no visible effect.
Katerina runs into the room bleeding from obvious wounds. Clearly visible behind her are three more Scrags. Anvil moves into the entrance to the room to hold the Scrags there.
Kapek's boomerangs finish the Scrag Ajax and lorric are fighting and Lorric moves into the corridor to attack another Scrag.
Meanwhile in the main room a Scrag at the rear chants and another facing Anvil slashes viciously at the empty air but somehow its blows land on Anvil who responds by quickly shutting the door on the creatures.
Kapek runs up alongside Lorric and attacks the Scrag he is facing, Ajax moves behind Lorric and with his extended limbs also attacks, finally Lorric's blows kill the creature.
One of the Scrags in the main room charges the door Anvil is hiding behind, smashing it into splinters. Anvil imbues his shield with fire and strikes at the Scrag but the fire has no effect whatsoever.
Kapek and Ajax move back into the room to help Anvil. Lorric dashes out of the room and tumbles past three astonished Scrags and two confused Sirine, ending up positioned behind the spell-casting Scrag.
The Scrag fighting Anvil bull-rushes him backwards into the room with his comrade rushing right in to engage Kapek, Ajax and Anvil.The fight in the room is fierce but Kapek drops one of the Scrags ( although it continues to regenerate). Lorric drops the spell-casting Scrag and the two Sirines, seeing the way the wind is blowing flee for their lives.
With his acid dripping Sharesh Kapek finishes the Scrag on the floor and Lorric smashes an acid flask on his downed foe, ensuring it won't rise again. Ajax chops down the last Scrag and Kapek finishes it off.
*Ajax comments
With a glad cry Ajax leaps on the corpse, delighted to finally find something in the tower that has ears he can keep.
Lorric chases down the two Sirine and knocks them out. Kapek and Anvil express great concern for the Sirines and rush out to find them. They then bring them back to be examined by Katerina. It is obvious to the rest of the group that they have been charmed by the Sirine's song but they refuse to accept this or that the Sirines meant them any harm. They are eventually persuaded to let the Sirines be tied up.
*Kapek comments
Kapek doesn't understand the others' attitude. With the exception of the logical and clear-headed Anvil, they seem to be of the opinion that these gentle and lovely beings are hostile in some way. What have they done to harm anyone?
10. Guard Room
This room has a small dividing wall; it is unclear what purpose this room used to have.
The Crimson Fist move into the room to the left where they discover a 'Stone of Alarm' buried in the wall.
11. Food Stores
This room is several degrees colder than the rest of the tunnels here. Barrels and crates, some dated more than 300 years old, are piled from floor to ceiling, although none of their contents are that old.
One of the doors of the room leads to a store-room, the other leads to a natural tunnel heading downwards. Both Kapek and Ajax note large, wet footprints in the tunnel, leading to the door.
12. The Dock
The tunnel winds down some 30 feet, the sound of lapping water drifts up from below along with the dim glow of daylight.
The tunnel opens into a partially natural cavern, several barrels and containers rest on the smooth rock floor, a wooden platform extends from the floor into the water that fills the natural part of the cave and a small rowboat is tethered to a wooden post.
The tunnel comes out on a dock, leading on to an underground lake. A boat is tied up at the dock and on the rocks against the wall of the cavern in the lake curls a huge snake. A tunnel leads off from the side of the dock. Kapek notices dark shapes moving in the waters of the lake.
Anvil activates the 'Stone of Alarm' and its linked stone immediately begins to howl enabling Anvil to find and collect it.
13. The Fungal Orchard
The natural tunnel leads from the dock, descending slightly as it progresses, ahead there seems to be a source of light, although it is particularly faint, as you approach it becomes more apparent that the light is a mixture of blues and greens.
After about 50 feet the tunnel widens out into a large cavern, about 30 feet across by 80 feet in length, still mirror-like pools take up about half of the caverns floor, and the whole room is illuminated by scores of fungi, ranging in size from a few centimetres across to over six feet across. Many of these fungi are glowing with either a blue or green luminescence, there are smaller specimens of other colours, red, yellow, white, but these are not prolific enough to affect the rooms lighting.
The Crimson Fist head down the side tunnel. It eventually comes out in a underground cavern. The Crimson Fist hold up the seal that was given them and loudly declare that they have come from Palomino. One of the mushrooms shuffles forward, revealing itself to be a Myconid. It gestures for Kapek to come forward. When he does, it realeases a cloud of spores all over him. Luckily Kapek's knowledge of the natural world means he knows that this is the way the Myconids communicate with outsiders and so he calmly breathes in the spores. Indeed he soon hears the Myconid's calm and steady tones in his mind.The seal convinces the Myconid leader that the group have indeed come from their Lord. He asks for it and when he recieves it, he snaps it in half and the stone heart rises from the lake in the cavern. He recovers the heart and passes it to Kapek.
As the Crimson Fist leave the cavern Myconids emerge from the shadows and great clouds of pollen shoot into the air. These give the retreating heroes a pleasant buzz and bright colours dance at the corner of their vision. They assume this is the Myconids way of celebrating.
*Ajax comments
Indeed Ajax lingers in order to take a deep breath.
As you leave the Myconid caverns you are awash with the clouds of heady spores from their gills. You feel yourselves briefly shift out of time and space as your minds fill with thoughts that are not your own.
Ten thousand whispers echoed through the ruins of a once great hall. The ghostly voices all imparting the same message in a confusing cacophony, "The last vessel is safe".
As the words swirled around the long abandoned hall they began to stir the dust that had lain there, still since time immemorial. Gradually coalescing, the air took form and the force that had slept for an aeon opened its mind once more and let consciousness flood in.
With a sharp inhalation the being, that was once considered a king amongst its people, felt life enter its form and the thoughts of every one of its subjects imparted the knowledge of past millennia. Dust became bone, air became flesh and the king walked once again upon the lands that were inherently His.
Looking up to the maelstrom in the silver sky above He trembled with rage, the orbiting dark speck that was ever present was drawing nearer to the centre.
Sending out a pulse of telepathic energy He summoned his sages to his side at once.
“How many have awoken?” came the first question of many.
“The Gates of Zionyn have opened,” came the less than confident reply, “Ixtchamel’Traa walks the earth, His prophet subverting hearts and minds. Pale Night watches from her Bone Castle and tempts ‘The Hunger Below’ to work against Thoon, but he is slow to respond and sluggish in his rising. Xhagevoxhab pulls at his binding chains beneath the Scarlet waters and his influence is already spreading. The Sibriex are rising from Emlachmara’li’Racus, and Kirx’Katech has seen the return of it’s King. More positively, the Stone Prince is flesh once more, but his awakening has stirred the Mabarian and aberrant forces will move to test his resolve.”
“What of the Librarian? What of The Mistress in Chains? What of The Bleak General? What of the Clockwork Fortress? What of the Hand Bathed in Blood?.... We have much to discuss.” The master’s voice trailed of into deep thought as the court of sages gathered to his presence. Watching the vortex above once more his every cell filled with concern.
As the Crimson Fists return along the tunnel they hear chanting ahead of them. It is a sound they are all to familiar with, the chanting of the words to the spell 'Obscuring Mist'. Anvil decides to get rid of the mist......with a fireball.
*Anvil comments
Anvil feels that when in doubt, fireball it out.
The mist clears as Lorric moves cautiously ahead of the group to assess the situation. He manages to enter the cavern unnoticed by the two Scrags who wait either side of the entrance, greatswords at the ready. He then deals one a mighty blow to its tender parts, causing it to drop the sword in shock.
Once Lorric has revealed himself, the fight begins in earnest. Two other Scrags in the room loose arrows at him, one of which would have run him through, were it not for his monk training which allows him to pluck the deadly missile from the air. Another Scrag emerges from the water and begins casting spells to augment his comrades. The two beside him go incandescent with anger, one successfully delivering a mighty blow to the beleaguered monk.
The rest of the Crimson Fist also engage. Ajax shifts into his war form, his elongated limbs allowing him to engage the foe at a distance. Anvil tries another fireball while Kapek and Katerina simply move up into better positions.
Lorric agilely moves back from his position to a safer one down the corridor, where Katerina can heal him. Ajax similarly attacks and withdraws, noting as he does so that the flames on his weapon are having no effect. This is unfortunately a little too late for Anvil who has unleashed yet another fireball.
The Scrags are drawn by the Fist’s withdrawal down the tunnel, where their attacks are limited. Ajax holds the line, striking with his usual manic aggression against all comers, while Anvil uses the sentient shield Guardian to protect the shifter. Kapek hurls his boomerangs to lethal effect. Despite these precautions, Ajax is still being battered with sword and arrow, Katerina once again proving her worth keep the warriors standing.
When the first Scrag drops, Lorric tumbles his way back into the room, deftly moving past the archer Scrags to deal one a devastating blow from the rear. The Scrag, its wounds quickly healing, tries to stand once again but a swift blow from Ajax knocks it back down and Kapek uses an acid-tipped boomerang to end its life once and for all.
Lorric is now under attack from both of the archers, but they are not the equal of the sword wielding warrior-Scrags and he manages to put them both down. Seeing the direction that the battle is taking, the spellcaster in the water discreetly leaves. The second sword wielder is also despatched by Ajax, and the helpless Scrags are finished off with acid.
The battle over, the Crimson Fist move on swiftly, fearing the possibility of reinforcements. Not so swiftly though, that they forget to loot the dead. In the next room they find the Sirines still tied, and another argument ensues over their fate. Ajax wishes to loosen their bonds so that they can eventually struggle free, while the ensorcelled Kapek and Anvil wish to simply free them now. In the end, Kapek just slices their bonds and the terrified Sirines flee.
Back in Palamino’s cave, Katerina is entrusted with replacing the Heart. With a little help she correctly positions it, but to no effect. Palamino then explains that his current condition is the result of an encounter with a Basilisk, and Anvil realises that a spell called “Stone to Flesh” will be required to reverse the effects. Katerina explains that she can prepare this spell, but not until morning.
It is now a time for conversation, and for revelations. The dragon Xeshenell pokes his head in from the next room to join in. He has many things to say about coming events, about the Prophecy, and about the Fist themselves.
He has been conscious for about two weeks, during which time he has studied the Dragonmarks which have recently appeared in the crystals of his cave. From this, he has concluded that the “sleepers are awakening”. The Crimson Fist have also been the subject of some speculation, with the dragon concluding that they are a force for good, and not for ill. In conversation he reveals that he is aware of many things mentioned in the Fist’s recent vision; the Librarian, the Sleeper beneath Scarlet Waters, the King beneath the Waves, stirred at the behest of Holashner. The Mabarian is simply another name for the dragon Mistwing, so named for his home plane of Mabar. Clearly the belief of the vision is that Palamino’s resurrection will mean renewed activity on Mistwing’s part.
*Ajax comments
Ajax is stunned by Loric's suggestion that 'the Hand Dipped in Blood' may refer to the Crimson Fists. Its one thing to hear prophecies of world changing events but quite another to discover they refer to you.
The Crimson Fist are, not unnaturally, a little nonplussed by all this. Things seem very confused to them, but the dragon explains that while the paths of the Prophecy are indeed complex, the goal of it is not. The goal is simply the survival or destruction of existence itself. He warns that many powerful forces study the Prophecy; including the Dragons of Argonessen, the Elves of Aerenal, the Giants of Xen’drik, and the demonic Lords of Dust.
Xeshenell goes on to explain more about the child that the Crimson Fist have been so desperately defending. The Last Vessel is the living embodiment of the Universal soul of magic, were he to die many aspect of magic itself would begin to fail. There are nine other such vessels, tied to the other schools of magic, but what their fates are, the dragon cannot explain.
He does mention more of the Prophecy that he believes pertains to the Fist themselves. “Five will become three, and head to the Lost Continent.” Most of them look perturbed, but Katerina has revelations of her own.
Once the camp is set up, and the Fist warmed by protections cast by Xeshenell, Katerina explains herself.
As Ajax, who pre-empts her revelations, had guessed, she is the one working for a dragonmarked house. She is a member of House Thuranni, of a group called the “Dragon’s Path” who are dedicated to studying the Prophecy. Her mission here was to keep the group alive, a task which they all agree she has carried out with skill. The initial meeting with her at the Gaze was part of a ruse, and her cover story there was bought with some suffering it seems. She answers to the shadowy Velseth, also a member of House Thuranni.
However, she also reveals that upon meeting the dragon Xeshenell, she manifested the Mark of Shadow herself. On return to Sharn she will need to consult with her superiors, and will be there for some time. So she will be unable to travel with the Crimson Fist to Xen’drik.
The group listens to her story, without condemnation of her hidden role, and the consensus seems to be that she remains a valued comrade and friend.
*Ajax comments
Ajax isn't bothered by Katerina's revelation, her loyalty to her House, whom after all she was working for before she meet her comrades, is entirely understandable. She has risked her life alongside the group and saved the life of every member of the Crimson Fist. He's much more bothered by the thought of losing a good friend, not to mention what adventuring without her help is going to be like.
Anvil then speaks. He explains in his careful methodical way, that on return to Sharn he needs to pledge himself to the service of House Cannith in order to continue on his path as a Spellcarved Soldier. This will involve him training with other Spellcarved Soldiers and serving with the House with some considerable time, and therefore he, regretfully, will similarly be unable to continue with the group to Xen’drik.
Thus is that part of the Prophecy fulfilled. The Fist are obviously grieved to lose two of their boon companions, even though it will hopefully not be permanent.
Wir 11th Nymm, 998 Y.K.
In the morning, Katerina’s magics are able to restore the Faerie Prince to health. Through his arts, they are able to see across the whole valley as it returns to life with its Lord. Before leaving, he offers them a boon; one item each from his collection, as well as one piece of armour or weapon.
As Palamino is restored to flesh and blood the walls of the tower slowly become translucent, before fading from view almost entirely. The warm summer sun can be felt upon your skin and the dull canyon that surrounds you slowly bursts into colour. Gently you feel the room rising above the ravine, before settling just above the canopy of the surrounding forest.
Across the lake below, you can see blackened woodland turning green once more and bursting into life. The grey slate walls to the canyon erupt with plant life and dancing lights that are reflected in the waters of the lake that is rapidly turning from black to crystal clarity. Then with a sudden burst of air and mist spray you watch as water jets over the edges of the canyon throwing a thousand rainbows into the air before it cascades into the waters of the lake below.
Wildlife, startled by the sudden flurry of activity, leaps into life, flocks of fowl take to the air and smaller game run for their burrows. The grey shore on the far side of the lake blazes with colour as meadow plants shoot from the once dead earth, it is soon waist deep with grasses and flowers and you can see the air filling with pollen as you watch.
Palamino turns to you, a broad grin on his face, “I thank you Crimson Fist, you have done this place a great justice. The winter of Six Falls is at an end, and for that I must reward you.”
Outside you see day rapidly turn to a cloudless starlit night as the Half-fey centaur waves his hand towards the great mirror, before your eyes you see a trove of wealth and magic materialise.
“Please make your choice; you may take one item and one weapon or piece of armour. If there is nothing that suits your taste, you may take gold in its place.”
These causes some discussion, as clearly some items are more useful than others, and a little friction as Lorric and Ajax bargain with the Prince over the terms.
*Ajax comments
Of course there would have been less friction if Kapek hadn't grabbed the shield Ajax had his eye on first.
Eventually the gifts are taken, and the Crimson Fist leave Palamino as he prepares for war. The Prince advises them to move swiftly. On the way out, Xeshenell playfully flicks a small rock into the back of Lorric’s head.
Once you have chosen your gifts, Palamino looks to the sky with concern.
“There is a presence coming for you, to take you from here”, he says in soft tones, “But they have stirred the dark-lord of the skies from his slumber. Mistwing’s territory has been trespassed upon and now he seeks to fell his rival.”
Following his gaze you can see a dancing speck of light in the sky, as you focus upon it, the magics of the tower magnify the object allowing you to clearly make out the “Skystar”, and its captain, the beautiful half-elf Syrina d’Lyrandar looking down upon you with her spyglass, her eyes filled with concern.
She looks to the west where you can see and feel a palpable darkness rising above the trees.
Palomino speaks once more, if you wish to return with this vessel then you must leave now, if not then you will have to endure watching its destruction.
When they get to the other side of the ravine, they see the “Skystar” approaching at speed. The captain is clearly in a hurry, and the Crimson Fist swiftly board, with the exception of Ajax who is concerned for the missing Clian. However, there is no sign of her and Ajax reluctantly follows the others. As the ship rises, it can be seen that the distant Oramellyx Keep is buzzing with activity.
As the Skystar take to the skies you can make out a single torch rushing to the edge of the ravine from the east.
To the west the oppressive feeling of pure evil and dark energy compels you to turn your gaze to the west with urgency, the sound of heavy wing-beats like a slow pulse grow gradually louder.
Below you the torch waves frantically as you can see the solitary form of a shifter desperately trying to catch your attention from the edge of the ravine; from the darkness to the east you see a dull green glow from the ruins of Oramellyx Keep.
Despite your pleading the captain refuses to take the ship down, “One life is not worth sacrificing all for!” Syrina informs you in sombre tones.
The group also notice a lone figure running from the woods towards the ravine. Ajax is frantic that it may be Clian, and in response to his pleas, although against the wishes of the captain, Kapek agrees to try and rescue her.
*Ajax comments
Ajax will be eternally grateful for Kapek's courage in risking his life as he was seriously considering leaping off the Skystar to help the figure below. As this wasn't Clain he would have been extremely embarassed (and probably dead).
Hurricane and Kapek launch from the cargo hold and the great beast is directed by Kapek to swoop past and grab the figure. As the shifter climbs up onto Hurricane’s back and the waiting saddle, it becomes obvious that it is not Clian, but Malgor, one of the Ashbound. He is grateful for his rescue, and Kapek is pleased nonetheless to have rescued him from what seems to be the very jaws of death. Strange creatures called Grells seem to be infesting the forest now and the Skystar is not waiting around. Kapek spurs on his mount, enhanced by the Halfling’s ranger magic, to catch up with the vessel, where he safely re-embarks.
As the vessel drifts closer to the ruined Beholder Lord’s keep you can see movement on the forest floor, at first you can not make out what it is, but as the creatures begin to rise above the canopy you can see the hideous forms of these ghastly aberrations.
These creatures have a large, bulbous body composed of wrinkled, light gray flesh that seems to float in the air of its own volition. Ten long, spiny tentacles hang from the bottom of its body, twisting in the air like ropes. It has a sharp beak in the front of its body, but no other visible facial features.
Beneath the canopy you can see that the forest seems to be alive as hordes of them all silently race towards Six Falls.
The Skystar rises higher and higher into the night sky, its hull groaning as the bound elemental roars, straining against its bindings and carrying the small ship at full speed towards Greenheart.
The ship makes good time on its way to Greenheart. The captain explains that her actions were not driven by altruism, since a call has gone out for heroes to assist Sharn in its woes and there is money available for those who bring them in. The Fist are rather concerned by this, since they are partly responsible for these woes. Lorric in particular wants to lay low for a while, avoiding Sharn entirely.
Ajax is able, with the use of a scroll of Sending, to establish that Clian is alive but probably in peril.
Zor 12th Nymm, 998 Y.K.
At Greenheart, they visit the tree once more. It seems pleased that the ravine is restored, but reiterates its warning about the doom-laden Clian. The group then leave it to its slumbers and return to their camp to commence theirs.
The mist clears as Lorric moves cautiously ahead of the group to assess the situation. He manages to enter the cavern unnoticed by the two Scrags who wait either side of the entrance, greatswords at the ready. He then deals one a mighty blow to its tender parts, causing it to drop the sword in shock.
Once Lorric has revealed himself, the fight begins in earnest. Two other Scrags in the room loose arrows at him, one of which would have run him through, were it not for his monk training which allows him to pluck the deadly missile from the air. Another Scrag emerges from the water and begins casting spells to augment his comrades. The two beside him go incandescent with anger, one successfully delivering a mighty blow to the beleaguered monk.
The rest of the Crimson Fist also engage. Ajax shifts into his war form, his elongated limbs allowing him to engage the foe at a distance. Anvil tries another fireball while Kapek and Katerina simply move up into better positions.
Lorric agilely moves back from his position to a safer one down the corridor, where Katerina can heal him. Ajax similarly attacks and withdraws, noting as he does so that the flames on his weapon are having no effect. This is unfortunately a little too late for Anvil who has unleashed yet another fireball.
The Scrags are drawn by the Fist’s withdrawal down the tunnel, where their attacks are limited. Ajax holds the line, striking with his usual manic aggression against all comers, while Anvil uses the sentient shield Guardian to protect the shifter. Kapek hurls his boomerangs to lethal effect. Despite these precautions, Ajax is still being battered with sword and arrow, Katerina once again proving her worth keep the warriors standing.
When the first Scrag drops, Lorric tumbles his way back into the room, deftly moving past the archer Scrags to deal one a devastating blow from the rear. The Scrag, its wounds quickly healing, tries to stand once again but a swift blow from Ajax knocks it back down and Kapek uses an acid-tipped boomerang to end its life once and for all.
Lorric is now under attack from both of the archers, but they are not the equal of the sword wielding warrior-Scrags and he manages to put them both down. Seeing the direction that the battle is taking, the spellcaster in the water discreetly leaves. The second sword wielder is also despatched by Ajax, and the helpless Scrags are finished off with acid.
The battle over, the Crimson Fist move on swiftly, fearing the possibility of reinforcements. Not so swiftly though, that they forget to loot the dead. In the next room they find the Sirines still tied, and another argument ensues over their fate. Ajax wishes to loosen their bonds so that they can eventually struggle free, while the ensorcelled Kapek and Anvil wish to simply free them now. In the end, Kapek just slices their bonds and the terrified Sirines flee.
Back in Palamino’s cave, Katerina is entrusted with replacing the Heart. With a little help she correctly positions it, but to no effect. Palamino then explains that his current condition is the result of an encounter with a Basilisk, and Anvil realises that a spell called “Stone to Flesh” will be required to reverse the effects. Katerina explains that she can prepare this spell, but not until morning.
It is now a time for conversation, and for revelations. The dragon Xeshenell pokes his head in from the next room to join in. He has many things to say about coming events, about the Prophecy, and about the Fist themselves.
He has been conscious for about two weeks, during which time he has studied the Dragonmarks which have recently appeared in the crystals of his cave. From this, he has concluded that the “sleepers are awakening”. The Crimson Fist have also been the subject of some speculation, with the dragon concluding that they are a force for good, and not for ill. In conversation he reveals that he is aware of many things mentioned in the Fist’s recent vision; the Librarian, the Sleeper beneath Scarlet Waters, the King beneath the Waves, stirred at the behest of Holashner. The Mabarian is simply another name for the dragon Mistwing, so named for his home plane of Mabar. Clearly the belief of the vision is that Palamino’s resurrection will mean renewed activity on Mistwing’s part.
*Ajax comments
Ajax is stunned by Loric's suggestion that 'the Hand Dipped in Blood' may refer to the Crimson Fists. Its one thing to hear prophecies of world changing events but quite another to discover they refer to you.
The Crimson Fist are, not unnaturally, a little nonplussed by all this. Things seem very confused to them, but the dragon explains that while the paths of the Prophecy are indeed complex, the goal of it is not. The goal is simply the survival or destruction of existence itself. He warns that many powerful forces study the Prophecy; including the Dragons of Argonessen, the Elves of Aerenal, the Giants of Xen’drik, and the demonic Lords of Dust.
Xeshenell goes on to explain more about the child that the Crimson Fist have been so desperately defending. The Last Vessel is the living embodiment of the Universal soul of magic, were he to die many aspect of magic itself would begin to fail. There are nine other such vessels, tied to the other schools of magic, but what their fates are, the dragon cannot explain.
He does mention more of the Prophecy that he believes pertains to the Fist themselves. “Five will become three, and head to the Lost Continent.” Most of them look perturbed, but Katerina has revelations of her own.
Once the camp is set up, and the Fist warmed by protections cast by Xeshenell, Katerina explains herself.
As Ajax, who pre-empts her revelations, had guessed, she is the one working for a dragonmarked house. She is a member of House Thuranni, of a group called the “Dragon’s Path” who are dedicated to studying the Prophecy. Her mission here was to keep the group alive, a task which they all agree she has carried out with skill. The initial meeting with her at the Gaze was part of a ruse, and her cover story there was bought with some suffering it seems. She answers to the shadowy Velseth, also a member of House Thuranni.
However, she also reveals that upon meeting the dragon Xeshenell, she manifested the Mark of Shadow herself. On return to Sharn she will need to consult with her superiors, and will be there for some time. So she will be unable to travel with the Crimson Fist to Xen’drik.
The group listens to her story, without condemnation of her hidden role, and the consensus seems to be that she remains a valued comrade and friend.
*Ajax comments
Ajax isn't bothered by Katerina's revelation, her loyalty to her House, whom after all she was working for before she meet her comrades, is entirely understandable. She has risked her life alongside the group and saved the life of every member of the Crimson Fist. He's much more bothered by the thought of losing a good friend, not to mention what adventuring without her help is going to be like.
Anvil then speaks. He explains in his careful methodical way, that on return to Sharn he needs to pledge himself to the service of House Cannith in order to continue on his path as a Spellcarved Soldier. This will involve him training with other Spellcarved Soldiers and serving with the House with some considerable time, and therefore he, regretfully, will similarly be unable to continue with the group to Xen’drik.
Thus is that part of the Prophecy fulfilled. The Fist are obviously grieved to lose two of their boon companions, even though it will hopefully not be permanent.
Wir 11th Nymm, 998 Y.K.
In the morning, Katerina’s magics are able to restore the Faerie Prince to health. Through his arts, they are able to see across the whole valley as it returns to life with its Lord. Before leaving, he offers them a boon; one item each from his collection, as well as one piece of armour or weapon.
As Palamino is restored to flesh and blood the walls of the tower slowly become translucent, before fading from view almost entirely. The warm summer sun can be felt upon your skin and the dull canyon that surrounds you slowly bursts into colour. Gently you feel the room rising above the ravine, before settling just above the canopy of the surrounding forest.
Across the lake below, you can see blackened woodland turning green once more and bursting into life. The grey slate walls to the canyon erupt with plant life and dancing lights that are reflected in the waters of the lake that is rapidly turning from black to crystal clarity. Then with a sudden burst of air and mist spray you watch as water jets over the edges of the canyon throwing a thousand rainbows into the air before it cascades into the waters of the lake below.
Wildlife, startled by the sudden flurry of activity, leaps into life, flocks of fowl take to the air and smaller game run for their burrows. The grey shore on the far side of the lake blazes with colour as meadow plants shoot from the once dead earth, it is soon waist deep with grasses and flowers and you can see the air filling with pollen as you watch.
Palamino turns to you, a broad grin on his face, “I thank you Crimson Fist, you have done this place a great justice. The winter of Six Falls is at an end, and for that I must reward you.”
Outside you see day rapidly turn to a cloudless starlit night as the Half-fey centaur waves his hand towards the great mirror, before your eyes you see a trove of wealth and magic materialise.
“Please make your choice; you may take one item and one weapon or piece of armour. If there is nothing that suits your taste, you may take gold in its place.”
These causes some discussion, as clearly some items are more useful than others, and a little friction as Lorric and Ajax bargain with the Prince over the terms.
*Ajax comments
Of course there would have been less friction if Kapek hadn't grabbed the shield Ajax had his eye on first.
Eventually the gifts are taken, and the Crimson Fist leave Palamino as he prepares for war. The Prince advises them to move swiftly. On the way out, Xeshenell playfully flicks a small rock into the back of Lorric’s head.
Once you have chosen your gifts, Palamino looks to the sky with concern.
“There is a presence coming for you, to take you from here”, he says in soft tones, “But they have stirred the dark-lord of the skies from his slumber. Mistwing’s territory has been trespassed upon and now he seeks to fell his rival.”
Following his gaze you can see a dancing speck of light in the sky, as you focus upon it, the magics of the tower magnify the object allowing you to clearly make out the “Skystar”, and its captain, the beautiful half-elf Syrina d’Lyrandar looking down upon you with her spyglass, her eyes filled with concern.
She looks to the west where you can see and feel a palpable darkness rising above the trees.
Palomino speaks once more, if you wish to return with this vessel then you must leave now, if not then you will have to endure watching its destruction.
When they get to the other side of the ravine, they see the “Skystar” approaching at speed. The captain is clearly in a hurry, and the Crimson Fist swiftly board, with the exception of Ajax who is concerned for the missing Clian. However, there is no sign of her and Ajax reluctantly follows the others. As the ship rises, it can be seen that the distant Oramellyx Keep is buzzing with activity.
As the Skystar take to the skies you can make out a single torch rushing to the edge of the ravine from the east.
To the west the oppressive feeling of pure evil and dark energy compels you to turn your gaze to the west with urgency, the sound of heavy wing-beats like a slow pulse grow gradually louder.
Below you the torch waves frantically as you can see the solitary form of a shifter desperately trying to catch your attention from the edge of the ravine; from the darkness to the east you see a dull green glow from the ruins of Oramellyx Keep.
Despite your pleading the captain refuses to take the ship down, “One life is not worth sacrificing all for!” Syrina informs you in sombre tones.
The group also notice a lone figure running from the woods towards the ravine. Ajax is frantic that it may be Clian, and in response to his pleas, although against the wishes of the captain, Kapek agrees to try and rescue her.
*Ajax comments
Ajax will be eternally grateful for Kapek's courage in risking his life as he was seriously considering leaping off the Skystar to help the figure below. As this wasn't Clain he would have been extremely embarassed (and probably dead).
Hurricane and Kapek launch from the cargo hold and the great beast is directed by Kapek to swoop past and grab the figure. As the shifter climbs up onto Hurricane’s back and the waiting saddle, it becomes obvious that it is not Clian, but Malgor, one of the Ashbound. He is grateful for his rescue, and Kapek is pleased nonetheless to have rescued him from what seems to be the very jaws of death. Strange creatures called Grells seem to be infesting the forest now and the Skystar is not waiting around. Kapek spurs on his mount, enhanced by the Halfling’s ranger magic, to catch up with the vessel, where he safely re-embarks.
These creatures have a large, bulbous body composed of wrinkled, light gray flesh that seems to float in the air of its own volition. Ten long, spiny tentacles hang from the bottom of its body, twisting in the air like ropes. It has a sharp beak in the front of its body, but no other visible facial features.
Beneath the canopy you can see that the forest seems to be alive as hordes of them all silently race towards Six Falls.
The Skystar rises higher and higher into the night sky, its hull groaning as the bound elemental roars, straining against its bindings and carrying the small ship at full speed towards Greenheart.
The ship makes good time on its way to Greenheart. The captain explains that her actions were not driven by altruism, since a call has gone out for heroes to assist Sharn in its woes and there is money available for those who bring them in. The Fist are rather concerned by this, since they are partly responsible for these woes. Lorric in particular wants to lay low for a while, avoiding Sharn entirely.
Ajax is able, with the use of a scroll of Sending, to establish that Clian is alive but probably in peril.
Zor 12th Nymm, 998 Y.K.
At Greenheart, they visit the tree once more. It seems pleased that the ravine is restored, but reiterates its warning about the doom-laden Clian. The group then leave it to its slumbers and return to their camp to commence theirs.
