The adventure begins with you still in the town of Ravengro in Canterwall, intending to travel to Lepidstadt to the north to complete their errand for Professor Lorrimor—delivering his sinister collection to Lepidstadt. Before you leave, you may be able to learn a little about your journey, and about the burghers of Lepidstadt, from local people in Ravengro. Also meet some new faces and offer them to travel with you.
Link to Module 1! For background information.
The city of Lepidstadt is currently the scene of intense local excitement. The dreaded Beast of Lepidstadt—a terrifying abomination that has terrorized the people of Vieland for years—has been captured. Hundreds of people have flocked to the city hoping to catch a glimpse of the horror and watch it burn for its crimes. The early part of the journey to Lepidstadt passes without event; the PCs see fewer and fewer people and more and more ruins, trees, and marshes as they go.
Fatima purses her lips at Cristo’s suggestion but tries not to look too interested. Or not interested enough. It was hard to tell which might be worse.
She tries a stiff-shouldered shrug. ”I’d certainly be willing to take a look at the place. There is time before we’re due back in Lepidstadt.”
She offers, "I have two of the heroes of the Harrowstone Prison coming to speak with us. They have been rather tight-lipped about the goings on there. Perhaps they will speak more to fellow adventurers. I hope Imrick and Calin arrive soon."
"Are you referring to Calin Milotti and Imrik Farstrider, Mayor?" the ustalavic human cleric asked. "I know them. I didn't think they would be in the area. Capable. If not ..eccentric."
"Either way, I've heard disturbing tales from Lepidstadt of late."
"Yes indeed. The previous mayor retired soon after they returned. I sent word for them to join us here and I hope they will accept the invitation. Yes there are all sorts of tales from Lepidstadt. Its as if our problems were just the beginning of theirs. I am not sure what else I can provide in terms of information. If you need any more supplies just ask it and it should be fetched easily enough."
The black winged Anubian nods his agreement
"I do not mind to go and help a people in need."
The black wings bristle a bit as he shakes his head after all that
"Having little information come from a city could only mean there is more trouble than they cane bare. It would also infer that they do not have the time or resources to send for help. Thus I believe it is determined that we should go there and help"
"Thank you, Mayor." Cristo bowed. "So, Madam Sensuleti, did the previous mayor offer training in your new role, or did circumstances throw you in the deep water to swim?"
"I was a barrister in Lepidstadt before, the old mayor helped with a few things but for the most part 'I was thrown into the deep end on my own'. It's also the reason I haven't collected adventurers for this mission. It just kept under more important issues."
Imrik is let into the room by the Mayor's aid. The large half dragon with blackened scales is armored and has a spiked chain strapped to his belt. He nods to the Mayor and says, "Good day. I believe you said there was business to discuss. Does this have something to do with the events at Harrowstone Prison?"
"Well met, Farstrider", Cristo grins and stands as the half-dragon enters.
Following in after Imrik, a heavily armored male enters the room. His armor is in the fashion typical of a Knight of Ozem - golden hued metal decorated with the sword of Iomedae on the chest. A sword is immediately noticeable in its sheath on his belt. And, a shield is strapped to his back likely has the same Iomedaen heraldry. Besides his garb and equipment, those in the room are immediately drawn to his eyes, which are almost a gleaming yellow and give off an angelic feeling.
The knight answers in a stern and serious voice. "Well met, all. I am Calin Milotti. Imrik and I answer Mayor Sensuleti's request for an audience."
Looking around the room, Calin notices a few familiar faces and nods. "Ah, I see some of you have answered my request for aid. Others of you are new to me. In any case, welcome to all of you."
With proper introductions over, Calin folds his arms and waits for the mayor to continue.
Relieved to see both of them enter together she gives them a warm smile. She quickly asks for information, "Thank you both for coming to my summons. Please relay what you can of the happenings in the Harrowstone Prison and what knowledge you may have about the tower. My agents have not been able to enter or find access to the tower."
Anapa turns his head to look at Calin, recognising the Aasimar from a previous extermination he was assigned to
" Calin! How are you my friend?!" genuine and heartfelt joy in his voice and demeanor as he throws his arms open for a hug
Anapa often showed the viruses of both celestial and canine among his friends and allies. Often with little regards to personal space
"The prison was a ruin. Inside the tormented souls of the past had formed a number of haunts as it tried to force the living to remember their pain. Many of those who were left to rot in there became undead. This included a number of powerful ghosts that were tied to various items. After much effort, and with the grace of Omrataji, we were able to lay the dead to rest and end the haunts." Imrik says.
Calin returns Anapa's warm greeting with a nod, as he is clearly focused on the task at hand. Conversation more than a welcome will have to wait.
"Yes, the prison had been condemned since the fire brought its destruction. Undead of all kinds lurked in every corner and in most rooms. Even now after weeks have past, memories of that place bring nightmares."
Calin stares blankly for a moment before continuing. "I have not visited the tower yet. I needed time away. I count Drake as a friend, so I have to assume the tower will serve a good purpose for the town."
"Would you lead this band to investigate the tower and bring back word of who controls it?"
"I shall bow to Calin's or Imrik's experience in this matter", Cristo nodded.
Calin gives an appreciative glance at Cristo's vote of confidence. Turning back to Mayor Sensuleti, he replies. "I don't speak for Imrik. But yes, I am willing to go to the tower, figure out its origins, and its purpose."
Calin looks to the faces unknown to him previously - Cassandra and Fatima. "Forgive me, I don't believe I've met you two before. If you don't mind me asking: what is your connection to Professor Lorrimore and why are you here today?"
Calin clearly has a hard time trusting new people and is hesitant about Cassandra and Fatima being included on a trip to the tower. Through all of this emotion and trepidation, it is also clear that Calin is very deliberately being polite and giving each newcomer a chance to speak for themselves.
Anapa inclines his head and steps back, rubbing the back of his head
"Apologies. I forget myself sometimes"
He listens till the ends and nods once more
"I too am willing to go and investigate this tower"
"If the tower poses some possible danger, I would be honored to assist in dealing with it." Imrik says.
"If the tower is in any way associated with The Whispering Way, it shall not stand", Cristo states plainly.
Fatima and Cassandra would likely introduce themselves and explain how they are connected to Professor Lorrimore and why are you here today.
With the mission selected the group left the mayor with waves.
There is plenty of time to talk about combat and roles on the way to the prison.
Getting near you can see the massive tower standing a good 500 feet tall and the top of the tower about 100 feet in diameter.
"For mortals that is quite the impressive structure" he comments as the take in the size of it
"Seems we have our work cut out for us"
Deep in thought, Cristo walks around the tower, looking for any cultural or historic clues of it's origin and purpose.
As the newly formed party enters the prison grounds, Calin looks around for Drake, assuming that he is currently here. "Drake, it's Calin. I returned with Imrik and a few new acquaintances. We are here to learn more about the tower."
There is the large outer wall that once stood to protect or keep prisoners who escaped from Harrowstone Prison. Then there is an empty courtyard of overgrown debris for about 200 feet. Then there is the chasm, you don't see how far it goes down. The Tower or Spire, rises from the chasm and dominates the sky.
At Calin's statement, several small towers grow from the ground. About 25 feet tall and could house an archer at the top. Then they descend again as a rope elevator drops from the Tower. A door in the outer wall opens up and you can see that it is lit up. Out walks an elf with a dragonkin behind him. The elf quickly runs forward and stops 30 feet from the group bow in hand.
As you get closer you notice, he is rather an attractive elf and lean with corded muscles. His short white hair is held in the back with black sticks. His chest is mostly bare allowing all to see the blue tattoos that swirl on his arm. The pants and other equipment appear to be of great quality. Beyond his bow, you don't see any other weapons.
He greets you with a friendly smile, "Hello all, don't get too close to the chasm it is unstable. Welcome back, Imrik! Please introduce your friends. If you are wary of me and the Tower, then you can take the rope elevator. Otherwise, come with me, we will teleport up to the top. I suppose either method requires trust."
"I have returned several times since we cleared out the prison and used the rope elevator to check within. I saw no sign of the evil that once lurked here but feared that it would return. It seems my fears have been realized. I can fly up with anyone taking the elevator, but it has held my weight in the past." Imrik says.
He then looks at Drake and introduces each of those who have come to aid with ending this new evil.
Drake offers his hand to each of you and repeats your name trying to remember it. He then introduces his friend, "This here is Lectrum, he battled with us and after bringing back some of his family have settled in the Tower with me." Either way he then begins to walk back to the open door and lighted interior.
If anyone gets on the elevator it begins to rise rather quickly.
---
Upstairs one way or another Drake brings you all to the welcoming hall. Here he offers everyone a seat. Dragonkin looks in on the guests but makes themselves scarce unless invited. Several young maidens are passing out beverages, nuts, sliced meat, smoked veggies, and oranges. Drake entertains any questions, he seems like an open book.
"We have come to investigate this tower and see who controls it. Have you noticed anything unusual Drake?" Imrik asks.
He pleasantly says, "I control the Tower. The creatures in the abyss are secured. I have new guards and servants who wish for a better life. I have the entire area and more under my control. Oh is it time to take the books to Landispt? I have collected some items from the dungeon, you each are welcome to take one. But give me a few minutes to finish up the room. Any other questions?"
Anapa inclines his head when he is introduced and takes the offer of the lift. Even if he could get himself up to where they needed. Manners dictate to travel with the group you have arrived with
"I do not know the story or stories behind what all this was or is. But what I have heard what may be going on, I am willing to help to bring it back into balance"
After Calin and Drake share a greeting, Calin is puzzled at finding a red crystal in his hand. He examines it closely before accepting Drake's offer to teleport to the Tower.
Calin also shares a quick greeting with Lectrum. "Good to see you again, Lectrum. I'm glad you made it out of the prison alive. My memory is a bit fuzzy on some parts of that fight."
As the group settles down to enjoy the food offered by Drake, Calin allows the others to ask questions first, and listens intently to Drake's answers.
The cleric folds his hands, trying to keep his eyes on his host, not the serving girls.
"Master Windfall. If you truly control the tower, I will strongly encourage you to speak with Ravengro's Mayor, Madam Zenli Sensuleti. The sudden appearance of the tower has caused her, and her constituents are great deal of stress."
Anapa nods in agreement "I too echo the words of my friend here. If this tower truely is no threat, perhaps inform the local populace of this? It will surely help in keeping unwanted adventurers from your doors and your... Uhm... Servents"
He quickly retorts to Cristo, "No, no, no, that won't do. Drake is best, but Elder Windfall would be agreeable as well. Alright I will make an appearance next time I am in town to the mayor. So we are not ready to take the books then?"
"Drake", the cleric tried out the name, but found it lacking. "I cannot speak for my companions, but her Lady Mayor asked us to ascertain if this Tower was a threat and any way related to The Whispering Way. If you have a spare 10 minutes, you will possibly save an entire community a lot of apprehension and grief."
"I'm unaware how much exposure you've had with Ustalav, but thanks to The Whispering Tyrant, we can be a ..skittish people. The kind who use torches-and-pitchfork before shaking your hand in greeting."
Lightheartedly, he replies to Cristo, "Drake Windfall is my common name. My elvish name, which I haven't used for decades, was Aragorn Eärendil Leafwilds, but most struggled with it, and I adopted this name from a drake friend. I even outlived him." His mood seems to dampen at the memory. You can see his emerald eyes show his age. He has known death.
A sparkle in his eye and he shakes his head. Questioning he asks, "Do you want me to go now? Do you want a tour? Oh, I know Ustalav well, but it was that reason I secluded myself in the woods until I found my purpose here."
The cleric felt his anger rise within him, but closed his eyes and breathed out slowly. "Drake. I shall make the introductions, if you like. And, afterward, you are still feeling generous, I would like a tour of your tower. Please."
"Drake, as Cristo and Anapa have said, the new mayor of Ravengro and the townspeople are very thankfully that the situation with the prison has been handled, while also being a bit apprehensive at the sudden appearance of this tower. By meeting with the mayor, you can receive the town's appreciation directly and address any concerns she has. Plus, it's important to know one's neighbors."
Calin pauses momentarily to take a sip of his drink. "You also mentioned the books. Do you have possession of them? What of the other items that were tied to the spirits in the prison? Were they cleansed? Destroyed?"
"I think taking a tour would be a good idea to satisfy the current concerns." Imrik says with a nod.
He replies, "I think Cristo is requesting that I speak with the mayor now, which I can do. You may all stay here as my guests or go with me. But I do set a brisk pace so unless you can fly, I can carry an unarmored individual, then I will go on my own. Actually I can go see if the mayor can lend me a few hours so she may be apart of the tour too. So I will leave my arms open for her return."
The cleric was perplexed. "I am wearing a mithril shirt. Would that be too much?"
"No that would be fine same as an unarmored individual. But I don't know if I can carry two back. Imrick would you be able to carry Cristo?"
Either way unless someone stops him he picks up Cristo and runs out of the room with Cristo in his hands. To the teleportation waypoint at the center of the Tower. Then out the side door and rushing to town.
He moves at 70 feet per move.
He begins to run going 400 feet per round.
He would tell Cristo about his most recent history. He was dieing of old age. The spirits of the woods spoke to him, telling him of a place of his lineage to find. He followed his adopted son to Lorrimor's funeral, helped as he could. Into the prison. They were teleported down to the bottom of the Tower. After some challenges they found the heart of the Tower and he claimed his lineage. The Heart made him Sublime.
The Anubian easily follows the group. He listens carefully before he smiles an awkward smile. Mostly because his muzzle isn't really made for such expressions
"Meeting the mayor does sound good. It's only polite to introduce yourself to the rulers of an area when you step onto their domain"
The Anubian tilts his head, along with his ears as if not sure what was going on
"Is it customary to try and provoke those who are in charge? I have not seen that to happen often. Unless the ruler is unlawful and citizens are angry. But that could lead to unwanted bloodshed and loss of life?=
Either way unless someone stops him he picks up Cristo and runs out of the room with Cristo in his hands. To the teleportation waypoint at the center of the Tower. Then out the side door and rushing to town.
He moves at 70 feet per move.
He begins to run going 400 feet per round.
The ustalavic noble shrieks with concern as he is picked up and carried by a 'elf'.
He runs up to the mayors office and let's Cristo go in first.
Cristo is set down, where he first catches his breath, then recovers his composure.
"I shall announce you, Master Windfall. Then I shall open the door to let you in", Cristo breathed.
Since he is wearing his customary full plate armor, Calin settles into a chair and enjoys a bit of rest.
"I doubt any of you can carry me while flying. I'll be here when you get back. Imrik, please inform me of what happened when you are back."
Calin uses this time to enjoy a bit more food, and then enjoys conversation with Lectrum.
After Cristo brings Drake, Anapa, and anyone else into the foyer, then he opens a side door. To the parlor you were in before. Cristo announces you and you enter to find the mayor waiting.
"Welcome my dear guest. Please have a seat. Cristo please catch me up."