Yorick Presents "The Throne of Night" (Inactive)

Game Master YoricksRequiem


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Storyweaver 10

It's with a strange smile that he answers Dietrich's question. "They're waiting for you there, for both of us. Sometimes I don't know if I'll get a chance to see it again." He shakes his head. "If you believe some of the others, there may not be many more generations." At Dietrich's expression, his voice drops lower. "You know the pride of the deep dwarves. As much as I've fought for this trade expedition, the elders would not have let it happen unless they absolutely had to."

"One can blame the Drow, or the Skis'Raal, or a multitude of other things, and I think most of that is hogwash. The truth, however, is that we are not prospering, or growing. Rather the opposite." He smiled sadly, but the fire in his gaze only intensified with excitement. "Now, tell me about your reasoning for wanting to risk a trip to the forgotten lands?"


Male Kyonin Elf Archivist Bard 1

Dietrich nods slowly, "Aye, the situation isn't getting any better, that much is certain, but you have me mistaken for a younger version of myself. My role in the underdark is no longer to venture into it and uncover its secrets or purge it of darkness, no my role is to raise up those who can. There is a group in the Inn just now who made the same mistake. They spoke of reclaiming Dammerhall, and when they finally were in some sort of unity, they assumed I was to go with them as well." He laughs as he says, "Imagine it Drogic, they, fighting a den of Skis'Raal, or a troop of Drow slaves, or worse, Drow soldiers themselves, and there I am, tottering in on my walking stick, a day late and a gold piece short." Still laughing, he wipes away a tear from his eye and sighs heavily. "No, my time has passed, and now my purpose is to find the next Dammer Stormhammer, to raise him up and to send him off with a burning purpose that can not be quenched by even the darkest place in the underdark. That what a storyteller is good for, for telling stories, not for being in them." He says with a wink and a nudge.


Storyweaver 10

Drogic chews on his lower lip and beard, pausing for a time while he considers his words. When he does speak, it's slowly. "It's true... that our people need another Stormhammer. But I tell you, I have searched the eyes of my community for years, and if he's there somewhere, I have yet to seen him. Not in my peers, not in my children's generation... Not anywhere." He pauses for a second, seeming to catch his breath, and continues. "My point, is that if there is a dwarf around of that caliber, he may not even know it. We are dwarves, Khazâd Nai-Khazâd. We are forged through hardship. Our heroes are not simply born, they are revealed as the statue hidden within the block of stone."

"The two I saw you leave with are still children, barely old enough to be off breastmilk. One seems to hero-worship you and the other is reckless and daring enough to have left everything he's known in search of a solution for our people." He chuckles, but it ends in a sigh. "Kids."

"Tell me this, though, old friend. Was I any different at that age?" He shakes his head, suddenly looking much older and more tired. "I feel Torag calling to me in the distance. I'm afraid that I may not live to see another dwarf like Stormhammer." His eyes search the elf's old face, and lock eyes with him, "But at least I won't live to see my people die." Despite the intensity of his statement, that Dietrich might well live to see the dwarves wiped out entirely, Drogic takes a second to clear his throat. "I am not telling you to go with them." he begins. "gods know you've done enough for us. But you know as well as I do that there's more to traveling the Underdark than that. Besides, I've heard the old tales a thousand times, and everyone knows that the best way to get a new story is to be there when it happens." He finishes with a smile.

"I do wonder," he says softly, turning back towards the light of the fire. "Of all those expeditions that went before, and failed, how many of them had cause to move slowly? How many had someone wisened to the ways of the world? Familiar with the Underdark? ...And how many were simply drunken fools wanting to make a name for themselves?"


Male Kyonin Elf Archivist Bard 1

Dietrich listens to his friend closely. "Of course no dwarf starts out as a Stormhammer, if that were so, we wouldn't be in this predicament. But is there any dwarf who has that kind of hero inside of them?" He pushes the thought aside as his friend grows more serious, and more tired in the process.

"First of all, you haven't heard even half my stories, in fact, you have barely heard a third of them, I just keep repeating the same ones to you because they are the only ones you will understand," he says with a wink and a smile, hoping to see the same on his friends melancholy face. Then he grows more serious and somber thinking about the things that Drogic has said. "Neither of us are getting any younger, and I can't help but wonder have I done enough. Have my efforts made up for the utter lack of interest shown by my people over the years. I just don't know what else I can do that will mean anything for the dwarves."

Then he looks to the sky and laughs aloud, and looks back at Drogic and says, "and Torag knows that young dwarves, barely old enough to hold their own hammers might actually cause more problems in the underdark than they might solve. I remember your first trip into the lost territories and a particular pair of trousers that needed a couple of good washings by the time the trip was through." he says as he leans back again.

As he looks around the caravan, dwarves are beginning to nod off, or head for their tents, and he can tell Drogic is tired as well. So he stands, extends his hand to his old friend and says, "Maybe experience is what is needed, maybe I can convince them to take you instead." He says with another wink. "You have had a long trip today, and you need some beauty sleep my friend. I shall see you in the morning."


Storyweaver 10

Drogic smiles at Dietrich's teasing, but underneath it is he still troubled. "You have done more for us than any one person." He respects Dietrich too much to say the rest of what he's thinking, but it's visible in his eyes. Drogic is worried that it was all for nothing, that the time of the Dwarves is indeed approaching an end. While he doesn't hold to the same fear of the Drow that others do, he has seen his own town begin to dwindle, and he has spent today seeing a large number of surface dwarves who know nothing of their heritage. The trip for him has been rather disheartening, and it's all of his face.

He laughs roughly at Dietrich's idea that they should take him instead, and simply shakes his head, not without a degree of longing. Standing up slowly, his legs cracking as he does so, he shakes hands with Dietrich. "Might be a bit late for beauty sleep," he chuckles, then seems to consider for a moment. "Tomorrow worries me, my friend. Whether we will be one step closer to salvation or one step closer to death, I cannot say." Without waiting for a response, he forces a smile, squeezes Dietrich's hand slightly, and retreats into his tent.

Sleep does not particularly come easy for most of our would-be heroes - as tired as they are from all the excitement of the day, for the most part they are also going over the things that were said in the evening, and what they might well say at breakfast. Dawn comes quickly, and with it brings more festivities and the potential for change.

Alright guys. Feel free to RP breakfast and meeting up and such.


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

Skygge walks a bit around the place when the sun is raising, checking how organized the citizens are now that the festivities have ended. He doesn't look cheerful or hopeful, but rather the opposite, knowing it will be hard to convince the ones he'd met to go on this dangfooled quest, although if they did not want to come there would certainly be others, and probably better prepared. He searched for a calm spot protected from the strong daylight to study, but still kept his googles since the light spread longer than it was expected, even if you were protected from its source. Could it be that what we're missing? A strong light to guide us? He shake the thought aside by remembering the dwarves have been prosperous for centuries, before Dammerhall felt, and so returned his attention to his large book. A spellbook.

Later on he returned to the inn to have some breakfast, and sat on a table ordering some pancakes, if they had it.

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

Gumar is awoken by the strong light peeping through the heavy shutters of his room. Muttering about the topsider craziness of being awake during the time of the bright light, he dresses quickly and goes in search of breakfast. He is somewhat dismayed to find the dangfool dwarf sitting in the best spot and hesitates, trying to decide whether to skip breakfast, or sit in the great light, or risk sitting near the dangfool dwarf. He eventually decides on the latter, sliding into a seat on the next table.


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

"Impressive! You don't remove that frowning face of yours even to sleep?" He laughs. "You are hating every moment up here, aren't you Gumar?"


Male Elf Ranger(Demon Slayer)3/Inquisitor(Cold Iron Warden)3

Ariael wanders in about a half hour after Gumar, and chuckles at seeing the unpleasant look he still wore. "Well, if it isn't Grumpy himself. Come to bring us all down again as we try to enjoy breakfast?"


Male Kyonin Elf Archivist Bard 1

Dietrich took the long way back to the inn from the caravan. If there was one thing he missed during his time in the Underdark, it was nights like this, moonlight providing all the guidance you could want, and the stars brightly shining throughout the sky. He savored the moment, knowing that it was likely not going to last.

Being out later than the rest, it was not shocking to him that he was the last one into the common room for breakfast. He walked to the bar and asked for some breakfast, "Eggs and cheese will be fine, with some milk if you have it." He says with a wink. Moving to a sit near Ariael, he sits down and says, "I must say, I don't surprise easily, but your appearance here has me still shaken up. It is hard to believe it has been 75 years, as you say, since we last saw each other. Though I don't know if I trust that number, you always were poor at math, either way, 75 years 150 years it has been far too long my friend! Tell me what has filled those years since you last protected me in the Underdark."

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

Gumar justs humphs at their ribbing and mutters about the craziness of getting up when the blinding light comes back. Why can't these topsiders get up when the great light goes away? At least then they'd be able to see. He thinks to himself.


Male Dwarf Stonelord Lvl 1 HP: 12 AC: 20 Attack: +6 Saves: +4/+1/+2

Ancian wakes at dawn, as he does everyday. Still in his bed, he cracks the spine of his prayer book and begins to read of the deeds and thoughts of the Dwarven gods. Battles fought with strength and honor, weapons and armor crafted with the very essence of earth. True stories of legend.

He loses track of time, lost in the tales of Torag, the all-father. Rumbles in his stomach snap him back to reality and he closes the book while jumping out of bed, rushing to get dressed and ready. After he is done, he slows himself down. Kneeling before a holy symbol set atop his desk, he begins to pray. Honor, Strength, Wisdom. Guide me on my path to embody these things.

Ancian arrives only a few minutes after Ariael and just before Dietrich. He takes sausage and eggs with a light ale for breakfast. He finds a spot to sit near Skygge and Gumar,"Morning, friends. Did rest find you easily? And Gumar, why do you look so grumpy?", he says with brightness in his voice, and finishes with a laugh.

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

"Why aren't you grumpy? This place is too bright, there is no proper ceiling and the air is always moving. You must be mad to live here. I'll be glad when we're down below where a good gnome belongs."


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

"You could get lucky and take a bath in the rain.... I bet you would like it... So, when are we leaving?"

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

"OUT THERE??? ARE YOU MAD??? Why would I want to spend any more time out there than I have to? Besides, I hear there is dragons breath in this "rain" sometimes. I'd just be getting myself killed like a dangfooled idiot. You ask me, we should all avoid going out there unless we have to. It was not a good idea to come here in the first place. You'd have to be crazy to live in a place like this. Now leaving is a good idea. On that we can agree. Sooner we leave this place, the better."


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

"Look at the bright side! There's no risk of the gnomish-quality-roof collapsing over your head!"

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

"Heh. I wouldn't want to bet on it. Probably kill us all outright."


Male Elf Ranger(Demon Slayer)3/Inquisitor(Cold Iron Warden)3

Before answering his mentor, Ari addresses Gumar first "Um, Grumpy, I hate to tell you this, but if your fears of the surface were at all even semi logical, would we all not already be dead? I've been rained on more times than I can count, and I've never experienced any sort of "dragon's breath" in the rain. I think you're just a big whiny crybaby coward"

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

"Bah, Think what you like, but I heard some of the locals talk about it. Light-something I think they called it. Lighting? Lightening? like a Blue dragon's breath, they said. Said it hit that tree over yonder. Sure looks dragon blasted to me. If that's what topsiders face every day, I'll stay underground, thank you very much."


Storyweaver 10

The group awakens early enough that they have no problem finding a table, and the excitement of the caravan lingers such that they are able to get what the desire for breakfast. Life in this small town will have to return to normal eventually, but everyone seems to be seeking to postpone the enjoyment as long as possible. The battles with neighboring countries have certainly taken a toll over the years, so this celebration comes as a very welcome reprieve.

As the others continue to talk, the tavern begins filling up, though they are generally ignored and left to themselves, only drawing attention from a sizable crowd when Gumar begins shouting out of absolutely nowhere. A few patrons eye the others in the group and, feeling confident that those at the table can stand up to the gnome if it comes to it, decide that they themselves know next to nothing about Deep Gnome customs and it would probably be best to let the gnome shout if he wanted to.


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

"So, I know we are having fun and all that, but I can't lie to you, folks. My hearth is never at ease these days, while Dammerhall is lost and there's no hope for us. I will make plans to go on a quest to the lost city, and with some guidance I'm pretty sure I will achieve it, but it can't be done alone. I am and will be looking for others to join me, or at least for some who have knowledge of where to start from. Kraggodan was not much useful in that, so I came here, and I know that at least Ancian has the same goal as mine. Does anyone else? Do you have knowledge to aid us in this quest?"


Male Kyonin Elf Archivist Bard 1

Dietrich can't contain his laughter at the gnome's outlandish fears. When the laughter subsides, as he wipes his eyes, he says to himself, "It is wise to respect that which you do not know, but it is foolish to fear everything you don't understand."

Looking at Skygge, he says matter of fact-like, "This dwarf doesn't waste a moment in the morning does he? As for myself, I was planning on traveling back to Kraggodan with the caravan when it headed home. As long as you are going that way, I can provide some company for the first leg of the journey." He turns his attention back to his breakfast as the words of his friend run through his mind from the night before and he softly says to himself, "Hopefully, that is all Torag asks of me this time..."

Based on that map of Nirmathas, and a map I thought I remembered from earlier but can't seem to find now... that we would have to pass through, or at least by Kraggodan, on the way to Dammerhall. Is Fasturvalt on the way as well or is it more north of the town we are in now?

On another OOC note, I am sorry for my absence, things have been a bit crazy in life. We are traveling right now, and this trip has been anything but smooth. Hopefully, things settle down in a couple of days and I am not so hit or miss.


Male Kyonin Elf Archivist Bard 1

Lets just pretend that the caravan is traveling to Fasturvalt before it heads back to Kraggodan... so that Dietrich would be planning on joining the caravan when it leaves, to the gnome village, and then back to Kraggodan? That work? Sounds good to me!


Storyweaver 10

Yeah that's totally reasonable. Hope your trip got better!


Male Dwarf Stonelord Lvl 1 HP: 12 AC: 20 Attack: +6 Saves: +4/+1/+2

Ancian begins to answer Gumar's question, "I'm not grumpy because it's a beautiful day. Once you get used to it you wont fear it, like how we don't fear the under..." He is cut off by Gumar's shouting and he quietly stops speaking.

As the conversation continues, Ancian stays silent, though when he hears talk of dragons breathe from the sky, he mutters, "Lightning", to himself with a chuckle. "I guess lightning would be pretty scary if you don't know what it is. I must remember that when we get down to the Underdark. Not all is what it may seem."

He turns his attention to Skygge as the dwarf gets serious, and the topic turns to the fallen city. "With all hope, Torag will guide us. I will do anything in my power to complete this quest, whatever it may end up being. We will journey together, you have my honor."

"I hope you don't mind telling tales while you walk", he says to Dietrich, who reveals he is only accompanying them for a short time. "You have many stories I wish to hear again." He smiles at the elf and returns to the meal, and the ale, in front of him. In between bites and gulps, he also manages to say, "So we'll leave with the caravan. I don't mind the sound of that, those Dwarves are great"

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

Gumar spends much of the day huddling in the caravan, muttering and grumbling, his hood over his head, hunched over against the light. When they reach the caverns that are the entrance to the underdark, he breathes a deep sigh and it seems like a great weight falls off his little shoulders. He unwraps the strip of cloth that he had bound over his eyes and grins. "Now at least, we will get killed by something familiar" he mutters.


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

"Yes! Who wouldn't like that Grumpy?" He shakes his head in disapproval of the comment. "You are pretty old, aren't you? How did you survive this long again?"

Ready to take the road!

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

I've said it before and I'll say it again. Always be careful. Never go where you don't have to, always find out what's there and always, always be ready to run. That's why I always have this ready." Gumar pulls out a small bottle with a liquid sloshing about inside it. "This little beauty will give me an extra burst of speed for a few minutes, enough to outrun most things." he puts it away again


Male Kyonin Elf Archivist Bard 1

So does the caravan hang around for a few days doing trade, or did it show up with all the fanfare and leave the next day? I was imagining a week or so before it pulled out to leave, loaded down with all sorts of trade goods from the surface. I don't think it matters much, as we could just as easily have said, we had a great week, get on the road, but I figured I would double check. I am assuming that, but will skip to the caravan ride itself as we seem to have done.

Dietrich laughs as he the gnome pipes in a comment in his grumpy voice since the caravan started. He can't help but smile at the rules for survival from the grumpy gnome either. "So basically, you are saying, don't get lost, and go only where you have been before? Sounds like it would be difficult to see anything new if you abide by those rules only." He says with a bit of a smirk.

But his eyes get a bit of a twinkle in them as Gumar pulls out the little bottle. "How did you come about that little bottle? Did you find it, or is that from your own production?" He leans in a bit, obviously interested in the gnome's answer.


Storyweaver 10
Dietrich Storyteller wrote:
So does the caravan hang around for a few days doing trade, or did it show up with all the fanfare and leave the next day? I was imagining a week or so before it pulled out to leave, loaded down with all sorts of trade goods from the surface. I don't think it matters much, as we could just as easily have said, we had a great week, get on the road, but I figured I would double check. I am assuming that, but will skip to the caravan ride itself as we seem to have done.

Yeah, it will have been at least a few days, maybe a week. Trades, celebrations, the promise of more to come, etc. No worries about retconning some things. I'll gloss over the week when I actually get to the point where things are moving. There will be some action soon, too.


Male Elf Ranger(Demon Slayer)3/Inquisitor(Cold Iron Warden)3

Ariael shakes his head at the Gnome's antics "I understand your fear, I felt much the same the very first time I went with the old man," He gestures to Dietrich "Into the Darklands. But, with time, I got used it, and now I actually thrive in the deep dark. Don't get me wrong, I am still quite capable and comfortable living and surviving up here, but if I had my choice, I would prefer the Darklands." He smiles then "So in that we agree. However, you're fear of new things will eventually paralyze you, and likely at just the right moment to get you killed. Unless of course you decide to just cower within your home, under your bed, with your blanket wrapped tight around you like some frightened child"

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

"New things? I've seen enough 'New' things for several lifetimes, thankyou very much. Doesn't mean I want to go see them again. If they come, I'm ready, but i'm not planning to go looking for 'em. There's a big difference between fearing something and courting disaster. And yes, Master Storyteller, I made it meself. Brand new this morning. Just like every morning."


Male Kyonin Elf Archivist Bard 1

Dietrich takes the butt of his staff that he is holding across his lap and pokes Ariael in the ribs. "Old man is it? As I recall, you aren't a young sprite yourself." Looking back at Gumar, he can't help but break into a sing-song rhythm as he says,

"What brings a child to his knees
and awe to his heart
like something new, with beauty unknown.

What brings an adult full of comfort and life to his knees,
like something new, something unexpected,
with fear of the unknown."

He smiles at the poem, remembering fondly its source, an old dwarven maid had taught him that poem 100 years ago in Kravenkus. He remembered the child-like awe in her eyes, and he had asked her, "How did you keep your wonder?" And the poem was her beautiful response. "I hope awe is still in my eyes..." He says to himself.

Turning his attention away from the memories of the past and back to the dwarf in front of him, he says, "It is all a matter of perspective, but back this potion of yours. I collect stories, but I do more than that, I seek knowledge and understanding wherever I can find it. I must admit, I have not seen much in the way of alchemical experiments, as it was often mocked in my homeland where magic is treasured and tried above all. The dwarves never seemed to have much of a taste for it either. Would you care to explain to me how it works, and what is required?" There is a gleam in his eye, and for those who heard the whisper, there is no doubt that Dietrich hasn't lost the awe of that which is new.

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

"Heh. Always a pleasure to speak of my art. Now, this extract is a fusion of alchemy and magic from my own aura. That's why it has to be renewed every day and will only work for me. The alchemical recipe gives it form and function, tying it to the desired outcome, while the magic gives it power. Each formula is carefully worked out beforehand by the alchemist and bound into a liquid form. When needed, all he then need do is drink, and the desired result will follow. It is just one of the ways that an alchemist can bring his art to bear."


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

"Interesting indeed! You're far better in the subject than I am in magic, it seems." He looks happily surprised with the Svirfneblin being able to actually do something. "But what do you use it for? Healing?"


Male Kyonin Elf Archivist Bard 1

Dietrich listens intently to the gnome and says, "So your arcane nature powers it? Interesting. So would you classify it as the same kind of art as mixing potions, or is this something new entirely? I mean, it is a bloody shame you can't mass produce those for others, but it seems like this arcane alchemy could have some very interesting effects."

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

"Oh, don't get me wrong, I can produce potions readily enough, but they are as expensive as anyone else's. This is a slightly different to standard potions, it is similar to a wizard's spell but in liquid form. In addition to these extracts, an alchemist can create a mutagen which can enhance his physical form and bombs which can affect enemies in a certain radius. On top of all that, an Alchemist can produce standard alchemical weapons, and studies the most effective means to deploy them. All in all, a very versatile package."


Storyweaver 10

Feel free to retcon purchasing anything that you guys might need for the trip. Don't bother tracking things like food or arrows, but I'd definitely make sure you have the proper materials for survival (Rope, compass, torches, anything like that). You all know enough to know that the Underdark is very unforgiving and mistakes often cost lives.

Over the course of the next few days, the individual members of the party make their preparations for departure. It all seems to go by quickly, and before they know it, they are standing with Drogic's Caravan as it prepares to leave town. While many are sad to see it go, their seem to be assurances on both sides that it will happen again, which is truly marvelous for both sides. With that said, many of the Duergar have become irritable, and are very anxious to get back underground - so much exposure to the sun has given many of them headaches.

Drogic is very excited to have Dietrich going with them, so much so that he has agreed to take the others right to Fasturvalt's gate, while the plan was originally to simply to stay on the Gnome King's Highway. Though this takes the Caravan roughly two days out of its way, the Duergar don't particularly mind since they're at least in familiar territory. They've also traded for so many trinkets and new foods that many of them are pleased in general. As one can imagine, there is not a lot to eat in the Underdark beyond mushrooms (some of which are poisonous) and meat. To say that the Duergar have a lousy diet is putting it lightly. No matter how drunk you get, mushrooms aren't exactly delicious - especially when the beer and whiskey itself is made from fermenting a type of mushroom. Gumar's people raise a type of eyeless cave fish which they eat raw - as cooking destroys the necessary vitamins within their organs. There are of course lizards and cave auroch (a type of miniature cattle), but such things are rare, and for many life in the Underdark is a constant battle with starvation.

It is only a few hours travel to the entrance of the Underdark, and about a week's travel to Fasturvalt from there. And then another two weeks to Kraggodan. The traveling party consists of Drogic, 8 other Duergar of varying ages, as well as the five adventurers. Knowing the plight that they are undertaking, attempting to locate Dammerhall is met with various reactions. While the younger Duergar find the idea enchanting, they have too much of a feeling of responsibility to be able to run off on such a quest. To the older ones, it seems like the five are just throwing their lives away. Grizzled and hard, these dwarves have seen a side of the Underdark that few have seen and lived to tell about. It is largely out of respect for Dietrich that most of them keep their opinions to themselves. Drogic of course isn't one of them and teases the old man about falling and breaking a hip on the walk.

The first two days pass uneventfully, while the aspiring "Saviours of Dammerhall" talk among themselves, still attempting to learn to get along with each other. Easily the most excitable among them is Ancian, who could not possibly have predicted that he would be in this situation. Close behind, though, is Skygge, teeming with a sense of satisfaction. Even though Dietrich and Gumar still have no intentions of following him to Dammerhall, he's on his way, and is hopeful that he can both convince them and pick up some more of the travelers.

It's "night" on the third day, the group is all set down together, enjoying some of the surface food while they still have some left. "Ought to be at Fasturvalt in four more days," Drogic says, looking at Gumar with a twinkle in his eyes. "I imagine you're rather excited to get away from these smelly old Dwarves and prissy old Elves." He winks at Dietrich. "I hope it hasn't been so long that you can't still remember your way around these parts. Should I have one of the younglings draw you a map?"

The map above is for everyone except, well, Ancian, since the rest of you have all been in the Underdark before.

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

Gumars mood lightens as the days pass - which in his case means only that he gets less grumpy. Part of him dreads the thought that there will be no news of his clan, but mostly he is just looking forward to finding a place that he can hope to call home. So his response to Drogic is not quite as sharp as it normally is.

"Well, Smelly Old dwarves and prissy old Elves are better than no company at all, and since they seem happy to put up with grumpy old Gnomes it seems we were made for each other."


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

"Happy? Being tolerant doesn't mean we like you, grumpy!" He waves a hand and laughs. "Ha I'm just mocking you! Of course we like you, although you have that... behavior of yours." He looks around, searching for the one who did the map. "Hey that's a very good map! Whoever did this has to teach me some techniques! Where exactly are we here?"


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

Very busy week, I suppose?


Storyweaver 10

Easter / Passover would be my guess.


Male Elf Ranger(Demon Slayer)3/Inquisitor(Cold Iron Warden)3

Once underground, Ariael scouts ahead, though never too far from the line of sight of the caravan. He wanders back and forth, though around sunset, he makes his way back for dinner. Despite there being no sun, he's still able to pinpoint sunset.


Storyweaver 10

Drogic laughs heartily at Gumar's statement. "Indeed, we have little except for each other down here." He chuckles further at Skygee's ribbing and then lights up at Skygge's praise. "T'was one of me grandkids." he says with a smile. "She's been trying to construct maps of the Underdark to help maximise patrol routes and caravan expeditions. Food's not been easy to find the past few months." The expression on Drogic's face quickly becomes one of concern, but he smiles at Skygee. "I imagine you haven't seen many of the sights here before. The Mushroom Forest, the Lake of Diamonds. Ah." He gets a faraway look in his eyes, as someone who is remembering his history, and when he looks at Skygge again it's with a degree of good-natured envy. "Tell you what, boy, why don't you keep this one? Kalrin won't mind, especially if it helps you find your way home." He smiles, "Course, if you can keep it updated as you travel, she'd be very appreciative."

He opens the map further, between himself and Skygge. He points to the path that comes from the south end of the map, and traces it along to a point about halfway to the Gnome King's Highway. "We're about here. Should hit the Highway tomorrow. Then it's just a short walk along the old roads to get to Fasturvalt." He looks up at Gumar and cocks his head. "They told me little of you, save that I should escort you as one of my own. How long have you been gone?"

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

"Truthfuilly, I don't know. I was about 30 when i was captured, spent a good 8 years in captivity, maybe more, and I wandered in the Darklands for months, maybe years before I ran into your people. I'd guess about 10 years altogether."


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

Skygge grunts. "Then how in seven dungeons you got this old??"

"Thank you for the map, we will update every time we can. Send my regards to this Kalrin, and tell her it will be put to good use. Could you tell us more about this Mushroom Forest, and the Lake of Diamonds?"


Male Kyonin Elf Archivist Bard 1

Dietrich enjoys the first few days of the trip, staying more quite than usual. He wasn't wasting the time, but rather, he was observing those he was in transit with closely. The young dwarves employed in the caravan, filled with a mixture of curiosity and disdain. His old student, Ariael, who often seemed like a spectre, a reminder of a life long ago abandoned. His old friend Drogic, carrying the weight of a whole dwarven city-state on his shoulders. Then there were these other dwarves, those who were loudly acknowledging their desire to capture and retake Dammerhall.

"An impossible task if there ever was one. How many days did I stand at the smoldering remains of each of the six bridges heading into the city. How many hundreds of refugees stood with me, seeking a way to gain entrance into the city we had all called home for so long. We searched, we scoured, and still, nothing, how can there ever be hope of finding a way in?" He whispered to himself in a low, nearly inaudible tone. "Yet, still I hope, still I encourage, still I prod and poke young dwarves just like these to go throw their life away on a reckless and impossible task, all the while trying to convince myself that I am playing my part."

Shaking his head, he looks down at the cavern floor they were traveling over. He had spent so much time in the underdark, that Dietrich barely noticed the lack of lights. Call it evolution, adaptation, or wisdom of the gods, whatever it was, he could see like very few elves could in the dark. It was different then it was on the surface, but it was sight nonetheless. And as he looked into the familiar gloom of the caverns, he couldn't help but smile. "I might have been born an elf, but this is my home, as much as it is any one of theirs. Why should I only send others to save it, why shouldn't I fight for it as well?" And with a sigh, he let out those words he knew were holding him back. "But what can I do, I can barely carry my staff, let alone fight and battle those evil denizens that have run rampant in this darkness for far too long." Shaking his head once more, he sighs. The wagon comes to a stop, a chance to give the beasts pulling the caravan a bit of a rest. With that, he puts aside his doubts, he puts aside his coming decisions once more and hops down from the wagon.

He makes his way over to Drogic and sees the old dwarf talking with Gumar and Skygge. Overhearing Skygge ask about geography, he can't resist a bit of a jab at his old friend. "Young Master Skygge, before you go asking Drogic here for directions and about geography, you should know, that the only way he knows how to get around down here is thanks to those maps of Kalrin. I am not certain he even knows the difference between the Mushroom Forest and the Lake of Diamonds without being told." With a wink and a nudge he smiles, as though he had not a care in the world.


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

"I suppose we will have to see by ourselves, then. We've got no guide, but hopefully fate will favor us..."

Shadow Lodge

Male Svirfneblin Alchemist 1 HP10 AC18 Init+3 Bomb +5/1d6+3 F/R/W 4/5/2

Gumar snorts. "Fate's just as likely to serve you for dinner." He mutters audibly.


GP | HP 6/6 | AC 12 | T 12 | FF 10 | CMD 10 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will -1(+3) | Init +2 | Perc +3 | CLW 2/2

Skygge mocks the poor grumpy. "If he can catch me! Ha! You see, I don't have that lousy mouth of yours so anyone can find me miles away!"

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