Kelyn Morrn's page

Where was I? Oh right, doing my best imitation of a desicated corpse

Fell off the roof and staggered boldly into the fray. Nina released fiery retribution onto the hit platoon, giving excellent support to us knuckle-draggers. The badger was unleashed, but for the life of me, just can't keep up with the lizard. No bigger than a bar stool, but he's like a stealthy blade barrier. Eventually, they all laid down and were good bloodsuckers; only odd thing was Lugh. They really didn't like the Lady's flame, and most focused on Lugh, who went down for a dirtnap. Before they could celebrate, a bright light shot from his chest into the sky, and he stood up. Sometimes it is just handy to be that connected to higher powers

Once the blood spray died down, started patching folks up. Some locals were enlisted to help with the bonfire, and contact was made with the "guild". Went on a cross-country jaunt to a water-filled hole; the one we seek is supposed to be down below, but the water doesn't drop till dusk. Got comfortable for the wait, not in any rush. When the water cleared, quick carpet ride to a chamber containing a woman resembling the portrait up north. Bags launched into an epic saga of his search, and her betrothed who waited for her return. At first, she wasn't buying; don't know why she would doubt fine individuals like us. An end to years of running and hiding finally got her to agree to the trip.

Quick port to the castle, and the lovebirds were reunited; sort of. She has big gaps of memory, so wasn't all over him like a cheap suit. They asked for some time to talk, and went out to walk the grounds. I asked Nina if she would take a stroll so we could keep random problems from disturbing them. When they returned, they were still reluctant. Will memory return, will they be hale, whole, and again human? As the group took turns making our case, he kept looking at me oddly. He then asked if we'd met, or knew each other. "Sigh" I asked his indulgence, if we could take another short walk. Related some tales that had similar circumstances, and he agreed to make the attempt. The couple were made comfortable, and took the first dose. Yep, those are some centuries-old corpses. The second brought back a pair of youths that fit right in with us. Happily, all memory returned, and they were truly a couple.

The next day, he dropped a bomb; they will wed in a week, and WE get to make it happen. He will take a new name, as a decendent of the count, but she needs to be nobility from another land to make things look legit. I foolishly thought there might be a few minor problems, but Nina only needed to hear the M word. Suddenly, a beautiful field marshal is throwing out ideas, and others pile into the chaos. Don't get me wrong, that is one happy woman, but I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop; probably a storm giant's hob-nailed warboot.

First order of business, return to Magnimar with Isabeau in tow. While Vex can handle any paper that might be needed, we need a noble. Enter Hobart. Should have known there wouldn't be a problem; big party and he gets to give away the bride? Instant uncle. Then he announces his friend Fujiko will have to go, just doesn't get out enough. Fine, am sure there will be plenty of seats. Then the old guy says he will be bringing(dragging, if neccesary) Ameko; high time she start thinking of these things. Quick trip to Sandpoint. Unable to talk her way out, Ameko decides if she's going to a party, she will be entertained. Properly. The guest list now includes a certain gnome, and a half-elf who isn't about to let her go with this bunch without him. And back to Magnimar.

Stupid me, thought I might get a little break. Nina comes in with Isabeau, Mother, and the Troll; and we're in Absolom. Return to the rooms of THE designer, whose retirement I assured last week, and see to any reincarnations he might have. Don't know how dashing a figure I'll cut with hands wrapped in gauze and burn ointment, but the ladies will look fabulous. Now just a few small things, like an accurate headcount and figure how to get enough coaches for this wagon train and how to get it all cross country in time for our big entrance,

How tough can that be?

Not exactly sure how much I had to drink, but it seems we're still on the boat to Oregent, following Bags' original lead. Must try to keep a clearer head while on these working trips.

Spent some time talking to anyone who would listen, and the only connection with the name was a hag, possibly in Absolom. Guess if he could manage to be turned into a vampire, she could have had a bad experience as well. At least we're headed in the right direction.

Arrive in Absolom, a little fuzzy on the details of the trip. No matter, back in the center of everything and time to get to work. Days pass without any useful leads, somrthing about black-sailed ships at the western port. While trouping the inns, looked up a few talented crafters who had been quite helpful in the past. The rich and powerful just never seem to get fashion; it's not how outlandish something is cut, or how many live animals are attached. One really only needs a few traditional styles that flatter the subject, that are made from the most exquisite materials to catch the eye and imagination. A few steamer trunks of doubloons should be sufficient to bolster a wardrobe and cover any funtions that might pop up.

In the meantime, the hunt continues and we seem to be working a dry well. The only word on the street is of some uncouth louts tromping through the inns.....who seem to be our little group. Hmmmm. Guess we're getting lazy, and a bit too big for our well-cut britches. Time to get scarce and head for an island to the north someone turned up. Hired a solid coaster for the trip, will take the east route and miss the rumor of plague(?). Asked around for any word of the missing women, using a bit more tact, but still not getting it quite right.

Spotted Macer talking with a local just up the street, when said local erupted in a fountain of blood; that man really needs to work on his people skills. About then, noticed some hazy forms accosting Macer, which might explain the fountain. While Nina sent some damaging assistance, I moved up to get better acqainted, and was joined by more of our group. These rather thick, well equipped vampires provided a nice workout, but were put down without upsetting too many townfolk. While tidying up, I was struck by a sudden feeling of "missing". The new kid announced her arrival behind me, but this wasn't the she I was expecting. I turned to find an empty patch of street that should have been filled with wonderfulness.

Some of the others were talking of inconsequential matters as I scoured the empty road. Link trotted by and pointed to a nearby roof where Nina was having words with another of these fuzzy individuals (something about a cloak). A sudden lurch, and I was with Nina, flanking this arrogant undead. At my suggestion, it took a knee, but lost none of the attitude. A nod from Nina (not a kidney punch to lose the attitude nod, definitely a stir his innards and expose them to the air nod) and it was no longer a problem. Must be geting better at this sort of thing, managed to avoid splattering either of us. She spotted this lurking and popped up to question it as I went through its' pockets for loose clues. Found a sheet with drawings of Lugh, Macer, Oona, and HUGE; appears we've become wanted and they've sent some top-shelf hitters.

Returned to find Macer stacking bodies and pouring oil over them. Oona suddenly recalled that these operators tend to work in large groups, we should expect more. No idea where she gets this stuff, but figured it was time to spread out and avoid AOE. Right on cue, small groups appeared; guess word of a vampire roast got their attention. On a side note, we really need to take some time to get the whole subtle, low-key thing worked out. Nina took us up on a building to assist Macer, but the over-dressed corpse blipped away, leaving something Awful; just going to have to turn him inside out for that. I believe Nina intends to drop some sky and damnation on his hooligan friends, time to work out some of this mad.

Grimy alley, crumbling walls, thick fog. No help, could be anywhere north of the Inner Sea. Maybe not the north; thanks be to Him there's no snow to wade through. Pursuing footsteps, heavy tread,time to move. Just need to get a decent lead on the bigguns and find a bolthole. Several corners, moving uphill, seem to be a few running with me; wonder what we did? Face first into a wall; deadend; trapped; Feth, I hate this fog. Spoke too soon; fog parts and reveals a man made of rags swinging a scythe blade like it's a razor. What did I(we) do to make it so mad? Have almost nothing on me, so obviously didn't finish. One of the others rushed it; couldn't see through the swirls, but it sounded like a horse getting butchered. Blood sprayed and it was past time to leave. I swore to buy Him a bottle of the good stuff if He could get me out of there, and dashed into the mists. Perhaps I was unclear as to HOW good it would be, and ran right into it; the wall gave more. Motion, pain, darkness; why is it all those people say there's a light to walk toward, it's always dark as pitch. A small light would be nice, don't want to trip and bust your beak on the way to the afterlife. Couldn't get a place in line, and came to slowly; no surprise, there's bars. Screams, sweat, blood, peoples terror; wonder if I know anyone here? Wearing someone else's clothes, I get up from the filth and find nothing useful; not even a bit of wire. Noise comes from a biggun strapped to a table, being carved by a woman using various sharp bits of debris, most of which I could us to escape this pit; she really enjoys her work. Shouts from other cells for her to stop cause her to turn and yell, as the meat on the table frees a leg and boots her toward a cell. Arms try to grab, but she's a nimble one. Meat gets her in the breadbasket, and she goes down. All I can see is the keyring sliding my way; grab, open, cross, open, cross again, open. Grab a rusty nail that's been honed down, and spot her running. Give chase, but the door closes before I can reach it, and somehow lack the leverage to open it. Men arrive to take over, and have to chase down the git, who wandered off with the only light to rummage for loot. Can't fault the intent, shows good initiative, but there is a time and place. Get back in time to see the doorburst open and the...thing? stumble back into a pile of bodies; somebody's been busy. Dodge through with the light, and it shows me my purple worms, using some foot-long claws. Leaning against a wall, I watch the others pelt it with anything at hand. The guy doing most of the yelling goes down, and thing moves back toward cells. I stumble across the sloping room and lunge at the one in the middle; goes dark again, getting old now. And again, the queue is endless, and I'm back in the stink. Not surprising, just a bit shopworn. Git's been busy; there's a pile of stuff next to me, and it could be mine. Just need to figure out who me is, probably important. Real nice viol,no bow; made for a big, but could be played like a bass in a pinch. Time to go, stairs blocked, best option is the corpse chute. Easier than it looked, arrive in a small room that leads to a rainstorm; be nice to rinse off the slurm. Move into a small courtyard looking for an exit, and discover what it feels like to be one of those big shellfish they boil alive at the waterfront. Finally get into the main building to find nervous guards with crossbows, guess it's back to the queue. Lots of yelling about dopplebangers, no trust, prove we're real, asylum; not sure if they're escaped residents, or just pesh heads. We have to produce three of the things heads to "prove" we're not them(?), and the git and the guy who can still walk get the one from down below. Next room had two rats bigger than me, a furry thing I've never heard of, and a couple of light sticks. Continued finding linens, lantern, centipedes...Feth! Back in the queue again!

Thanks. Thin, is it? Wonderful, but if you don't mind, I'll just stay over here in my safe space. All I can do to keep from getting trampled. For an escape-proof cell, this place gets more traffic than the ridged airship station in Absolom. And a lot stranger.

First, with the exception of the shapely halfling with the interesting hair, there will be NO groping. Second, where might I get one of those nice white coats(14 Short), and could I lead myself away wearing one? Just a thought.

One more thing; where the feth are "we", and what is the safe occupancy limit on this pest hole? And does it include that shadowy form staring off into the distance?

G'day, name's Evan; have we met? Was snuck out of Cheliax when I was just a sprig, ended up in Andoran. Spent a bit of time there, but just didn't seem to measure up to those fine tall uniforms. Managed working passage on an old trader and landed in Absolom; a huge, beautiful, strange, confusing, deadly place to try to grow up in. Survived on wits and quick feet until happening upon Cayden's Rest; an inn run by a fine old codger named Georgi. Took pity on a half-starved runt and had me clean up around the place and run errands. Was nice to sleep indoors and not have to worry where the next crust was coming from.

Started gaining a few skills, not sure what to do with my future. Didn't think I'd be able to follow the boss' path, don't have the right frame of mind. At first, nobody told me how tight Georgi was with the place's namesake. Concord related a couple tales from "The Old Days" that got my attention and reminded me not to take things at face value.

Life was going well, and one day... and there was the thing... then something happened...

Where exactly is this place?

Evan Sumak
Halfling Rogue(Unch)

Str 5
Dex 17
Con 14
Int 12
Wis 14
Cha 16

Meticulous Enduring Stoicism Tireless Logic Fate's Favor
Fleet of Foot Believer's Boon: Travel

One should be able to extract oneself from the dungy at least as fast as one charged headlong into it.

So, here we are cruising a swamp. Not much to look at, the smell is difficult to describe, but do so enjoy the company. I appreciate HUGE's effort, but bouncing along on a small hairy hill just can't compare to gliding smoothly while taking in what passes for a view.

In the middle of nowhere, noticed several large ogres curled up under brush, half burrowed in the muck. Yelled at the all-terrain beastie (are they sleeping down there?) and moved to engage. The things crawled from their holes(really wish they wouldn't have) and turned out to be larger versions of the clocktower beast. True to form, they shed magic like rain, so went in the old fashioned way. Got real fun when the first one went down; the skin slid off, and a huge cat/bat/dunno waded in. At least they took magic damage, so Nina was much happier to be able to blast them. Noticed a distinct lack of support; lots of yelling about not being able to see any foes. Guess they weren't sleeping on the trip out, but were doing shots; and I'M the irresponsible one. Enough mud and blood were kicked up to find them and continue the trek.

Later, another trash-patch thing(can't even describe them anymore, just not right)took off ahead of us, and HUGE did his super speed thing to catch up. Which seemed the thing to do, except flying over to the tower it came out of appeared to be more useful. Went to the open door, but when I tried to enter, a stick-man(?) told me we had to leave, and slammed the door. As the tower is on the Ethereal plane, popping the lock is going to be tough. Just then, the door reopened and Vex invited us in; glad he's mostly on our side. The stick was politely telling us to GTFO as we weren't allowed to be there. The new kid convinced it we were, and we would evict other trespassers already inside; some kind of drow(?).

Moved around the amazingly spacious thirty foot tower; not sure how he packed all this mansion into a little tower, but need to find out and upgrade the camping tower. No sign of the lego man, but Vex did find one of the dark gits. Confronted it and informed him that it was time to go, but it did not comply. Looks like we'll have to beat him down and give it a proper 86ing. We live in such uncivil times.

Alright, alright; nothing special, just trying to catch up.

The carnage went on and on for semmingly endless minutes. While HUGE enjoys these little gatherings, this really doesn't fit my idea of church services. One would think that the loaded high-brows that favor Abadar should present a bit more decorum. After the first group left for Hobart's, carved a path to the family and gave Nina some room. She ported them home to be looked after, and then to help at Hobart's. More disassembling when I noticed the new girl had returned and was yelling that Oona was the target and we had to protect her(the strickened look on her face showed just how much that hurt to say). Not seeing Nina in the fray, I called her back so she wouldn't miss the shindig, and got yet another of those looks(#867 or 8, hard to keep track any more; if there was ever time to explain, I'm sure these things would go much smoother).

Oona was "safe" in her green circle, and the undead/demon legos were thinning out. The THING sent in some proxies to keep us entertained; for the life of me, I have NO idea what those were. There was talk of them being very chrarismatic, but every time I went for a lunge, I threw up a little more. Finally put them all down and started to bring some order to this charnel house. Some of the bystanders spared a grisley end started muttering how it was Our fault it happened, but it seems to me that a crowd as flush as this could afford better security. A few dislocated jaws later, we set off to my house to pick up the missing. Extensive cleaning enroute as I knew better than to try to show up covered in bloody, decaying clumps of ....whatever. Hugs, smiles, relief; was even civil to the bane of my life. Maybe this is part of that maturity thing.

Suddenly, we hit a long stretch of peace. While there was work to be done, no one(or thing) was trying to shuffle off our mortal coils. Just to make things perfect, it was decided that I was getting pudgy and that WE would work to fix this. While going against many things I hold dear(sleeping, rich foods, canoodling, etc), pursuing a certain individual through the streets of Magnimar does have its perks.

Guess this vacation is coming to an end, there's talk of dealing with the lego man and the army-leading goblin(that's just Never going to stop being funny). Also need to turn Delvawho into a throw rug or something, but there probably won't be much left after Lugh gets done with his rightous retribution. Don't poke the badger if you can't suvive the spoon!

Good thing we didn't bother coming up with an intricately planned(or any other kind of) plan, because there is NO way it would have survived this contact.

All manner of things walked, ran, bounced, flew, and crawled from the portal and headed to all points of the compass. The battle line of intrepid heroes that was drawn up to valiantly crush the horde was generally ignored, most contact being incidental; Just the proper kick in the shorts in case anyone was still under the illusion of making a difference. Tightened up the(brown) big boy pants and wandered into the fray.

The lead wave of torch-wielding goblins was going down nicely when I noticed something unusual, even for goblins. Two of them, engulfed in flame, were riding odd beasts that hopped erratically forward. Not wanting these to get loose in the still-standing neighborhoods, I moved to engage; good idea, less than optimal execution. Piercing the thing caused it to erupt in a wave of sticky fire, luckily catching the second one and setting it off too. All of the goblins in the area were incinerated, taking them out of the fight. On the other hand, our group was left standing in a lake of fire, giving me the stink-eye. It's not like these things have safety warnings on them, and if this was covered in the prefight briefing, I was thinking of something else. Nina, from a tactically sound position in the camping tower, was laying down a carpet of bombs in the heavies as they approach. Some of the blasts are cold and ice, very effective on the planars and misc. creatures. I can imagine the beaming smile this brings to her lips.

About then, HUGE(the four-legged version) charged through the mass at incredible speed, knocking the giants around like tenpins; very interesting. This probably would have been the most memorable part of the entire battle, if Macer hadn't decided to stop fighting and start removing his armor. In the middle of the battle. In front of everyone. I know someone will have a perfectly rational explanation for this later, so I turn back and continue the fight, ankle deep in flaming goop.

The free-for-all continues, and it seems we may be making some progress. Looking over the heaps of fallen enemies brings hope, as an enraged wail carries across the field. Oona is saying that her mealticket is down and being carried away. This brings me pause; she could only mean Vex, and he doesn't fall down, he makes other things go away. Looking around, I spot a quadruped stomping off, with the lizard apparently impaled on its tail. As I try to disable the governor on this rug, several spells crash in to slow it's escape. As he is not trying to bore through the creature, can only assume Vex is truly dead, so he can't be more dead from more damage, right? Just know that the creature is NOT getting away with our little(scheming, lying sociopath, but probably not Really treacherous) buddy.

Where's HUGE?

In other news, time to find Vex.

HUGE seems sure Vex is somewhere below us(birds can point?), so down we go. It becomes apparent quite quickly that my mode of transport doesn't measure up to the expectations of the group. While "The Girl from Kaer Maga" plays in the background, I'm skewered by glares and bombarded by endless "Are we there yet?". The group stoically remains on board, deciding not to dive off into darkness; all talk, no action. Note to self; sell these things when we get back to civilization, hate to keep such objects of disappointment around.

Finally arrive at solid ground to find HUGE happily squashing things and Oona screaming about dismemberment; you know, just another day. Land the rug next to a couple demons and the meat are happy again. Spend some time hopping the carpet to keep people in contact, but just not feeling it. Eventually wear down the opposition and pretty sure I heard Vex near the finish, but still can't see him. Now I'm hearing there's another horde moving in to swarm us before we have a chance to regroup or hustle up a quick lunch.

Like I said, just another day.

Yeah, Magnimar has to wait for a bit. While trying to make sense of what the half-orc was telling us, a very annoying buzzing swelled up all around. Couldn't pick out a threat until Nina pointed down and said a horde of planars were flying up to us, nothing she had ever encountered. As usual, no rest for the weary.

Nina and Atz stayed high while I moved the carpet to keep the enemy at a distance; no plan survives contact. The cloud of demons bore in, hewing flesh and throwing flame. Spells were running thin and our lifeblood was raining into the darkness. Kept moving to let the big fighters maim them, and try to take some pressure off the casters. Majority were the humanoid/insect/demons(?), but a stitch-job with angel wings really had it in for Lugh. It pressed in hard(big mistake) and ended up mechanically separated.

Finally, a few moments breather and a quick headcount. About then, it occurs that it's also quiet down below. In the rush to remain breathing, totally lost track of the other fight. An eagle flies up from the darkness; has to be HUGE cause it's making such a racket. You ever notice how a person that doesn't speak your language just gets louder and expects you to understand? Doesn't work with birds, either.

Catching my breath as some healing is passed around when it finally hits me:

Where's Vex?

Dark. Warm. Quiet. Buried?

Wait, it doesn't feel that heavy; comfortable? Seems to be something else under here, can't quite tell...Good Morning, Sunshine! I do apologize for the early wake up, but am so glad not to be trapped alone under what now appears to be a mountain of blankets and comforters.

As I try to nestle back into peaceful slumber, my body takes this opportunity to spasm and cramp every joint and muscle. Just a subtle reminder that the last few days have not been a vacation and to JUST STOP IT!!! Others will have to piece together the exact sequence of events; been torn apart and reassembled so many times(Thank you again, Nina)that things are a bit fuzzy. Probably still in Kaer Maga, you just don't run across this smell anywhere else. Kind of remember many unclean things going away and much to still be done. No doubt some of the more driven will be pounding the door down any hour now, time to creak slowly into action.

First, will need a huge tub of near scalding water, preferably with tons of bubbles. Will surely cost a fortune, but well worth the mess. On that note; excuse me, Miss? I'll be requiring a qualified lifeguard, or at least a responsible adult, and was wondering if you might have a couple hours to spare?

A busy day, much more entertaining than I figured, even if it was the festival.

Started early checking the crowds and looking for good spots to watch the activities. Tried to get an preview of lunch, but the ladies are still very quick with those ladles. Moved north to watch Xantus uncover the monument; impressive stonework, but know the stories.

The events started and I moved around watching, but found myself back at the tables(didn't eat this morning, saving room for the big meal). Xantus uncovered a cart and released hundreds of butterflies to ask Her blessing on the meal; an amazing sight, but nothing compared to what happened next. A cloud of them swirled around me, covering me head to toe, and laid their wings flat. The gift of Her favor left me speechless, but noticed others had been picked. A truly odd group, She must have something unusual in mind.

A cheer went up from the gathering at this favorable omen, and found myself hustled to the main table. I was being talked to, not at, by important people of the town; not a regular day. Spoke with the other selected about what happened, but haven't a clue. Ate a LOT while the questions flew, eventually we decided to check out the monument again. Poked around noting angles and numbers, the ratling tried climbing up to look at something on the dragon. Barloss didn't care who we thought we were, nobody was going to get him in trouble. Have to come back later.

The birdling(?) found lots of runes inlaid in the surface, but no one could read them. Told them we should find Quink, because he's older than the Light and knows things nobody else bothers to remember. For a fossil, he gets around pretty well, taking some time to locate. He was very excited and started reading off the words; hope somebody wrote that down. He stopped, said "the Scibbler", and dropped to the ground DRT. Went for help, but nothing could be done as it was his time to join the queue.

Spent the rest of the day answering more questions and trying to make a plan. Some of the group went to the Hagfish for the annual fights, not my thing. Looks like we'll be heading out tomorrow (assuming everyone's sober and ambulatory) to find if there really IS a Sandpoint Devil, and how it connects with these other events.

Name's Nar'ion, I'm a collector. Meat, pelts, stray ner-do-wells; puts coin in the pouch and keeps the belly full. As a product of "mixed parentage", it's also nice to move around and find opportunities that present themselves.

Nothing exciting; was born and raised in the area, have been running these woods since I can remember. Don't have a bunch of people crowding me, and I can seek out the darker places where it's easier to find my way. While town has lots of useful things, you won't find Rhylla's only son playing shopkeeper.

Speaking of useful things, the Swallowtail Festival is coming and so are the yokels. Too much noise and smell when you pack that many folk into town, but you just can't beat it for entertainment. Always fun to watch the nutters competing in the events, might even be able to pick up some coin.

Truthfully, I'm thinking it's about time to get off my kiester and start a real life. Need to keep an eye out for some talent, find a few competent individuals and see what we can stir up.

I've had better days.

The non-stop beating continued. Lost Oona in the scrum, but managed to push hard enough to finally make it inside the front door. Let me rephrase that; I was able to stay upright and in the fight because Nina kept replacing the parts being hammered out. The battle moved around the room, more creatures replacing those who went down. Couldn't keep track of our status, people dropping and getting back into it, blue stuff was flowing like punch at a cotillion.

Tired of being ignored by the opposition, Nina started jumping us around to provide flanking. It felt like I was trying to chop down trees with an ice pick, she made sure the creatures bore the badger's full wrath. Ages later(others assure me it was only a few minutes), the last foe clangs to the floor. We look across a field of splashed blood, rent flesh, and broken metal. Hurrah, we've taken the foyer!

A moment to check that our parts are mostly attached, the group moves in pursuit of a vampire's gaseous shape(there was a vampire?). Macer has wandered down a side hall, something about hearing noises. Why are all these people glowing?

Ow!!! Enough with the poking, already. It would seem that I have been a bit delinquent recording some of the events of our travels. Rather pointed reminders(I see you winding up back there) compel me to put pen to paper.

Surviving several attempts on life and limb, the group arrived back at Magnimar. Hadn't realized what a long year it has been, and how much we have been missing at home. It was decided to winter in town, and spend quality time with family and friends.

Looking forward to a few months of feather beds and fine foods, some lunatic started on a demented health kick. The rest of us were dragged along(in at least one case, kicking and screaming)"for our own good". No one in their right mind gets up at that hour, staggers around under that kind of weight, and gets beat with sticks. Especially when recovering from long, arduous travels. Now, I would be the first to speak of cutting a fine figure when dealing with the public, and certain individuals managed to improve an already stunning figure......

Now, where was I(and where the heck are my pants)? Come spring, we left in search of vampires, a lich, and an undead dragon(?). Oona had come up with some story about leads in our quest, so off we went. Passed through an ancient battlefield the size of a small country, and arrived at a cyclopean city that had fallen to ruin long ago. Found the beast holed up under a former palace, and after many explosions and feats of strength and agility, put it down. We met tall stone beings(NOT golems) who had lived there longer than anyone could figure. Two of them joined us to look for others of their kind as we traveled.

Much overland travel(like that carpet), cooling our heels at he base of a massive cliff, and escorted through tunnels to the city of Kaer Maga. It's kind of like Magnimar, but alot more "residents" packed into less area; now this is a smell one is unlikely to forget. We set about learning our way around and gathering information. Finishing a working lunch, the familiar sounds of our group's standard negotiations erupted in the square. We emerged to find the usual carnage as the group told of things porting in and starting the ruckus; I remain skeptical. In the aftermath, we find our number increased by one. Ignis, an elemental construct who seems to be a project of the DIY lich we're hunting, was an involuntary participant of the recent disturbance and wished to return to her place far below the city. Of course, we agreed to help.

We collared a few dusk wardens, and Nina told them of the delicate situation that needed to be corrected. Unable to resist such charming logic, they agreed to help us if we were foolish enough to go there. They spoke of an entrance to the undercity they had found while exploring as children(hmm...)and set up an elaborate ruse to cover our entry. We moved through a large temple with minor incident and found ourselves at a large chamber filled with hundreds of yelling worshipers. Using the chaos as cover, we moved to a large gate with a massive lock, presumably to keep out monsters. It opened pretty easy, but didn't seem the right time to discuss security with them.

Moving into a warren that stretched in all directions, we encountered a creature that Felu's friend said was part of a "hive mind". It sucks the brains out of a person and leaves the rest to be drained/devoured by the vampires they work with. Important safety tip; stay clear! Continuing on, Nina spotted a vampire watching us from a side tunnel. We approached, and it regaled us with a tale of woe. A powerful vampire(glanced at Oona) and a lich had taken over his digs in the upper city, and he wanted them removed. For our help, he would lead us to an army of stone people like the two traveling with us, even throw in some money to finance. He led us to an immense chamber filled with rank after rank of stone figures, but none of them moved. As our companions grieved at this loss, the vampire gave directions to his estate and produced a key. The vampires have a depository here like the one in Ustalev, and there we could get some funds to help eliminate the interlopers. As I took the key, I thought about the two others, and assured him it would be done.

After it left, we talked with the stone women at length. The figures in this cavern had been drained, what was taken used to make the goo we carry; five creatures to fill one vial. It could be possible to reanimate the creatures, but will need to return them to the elders. Opened Vex's well and used my hoist to get two in for transport. While arranging them and the stones already inside, Ignis stepped forward and started a new line of conversation. It took quite some time to get heads around the idea that Ignis is actually the "soul" or cornerstone of the Weapon; our chance companion is really the center of all this.

We have much to do, this just got REAL interesting!

Where to start? The last several days run together and it's difficult to keep facts straight. While pleased with Khonnir's return, it's obvious that Jorum is less than pleased with the disruption of my studies; even Khonnir's patience seems to be wearing thin waiting for a written report of our findings that he might study at length. Apparently, spending all my time elbow-deep in my comrades, keeping them upright in our continuing battles just isn't enough(effective range of zero meters, and all that). Thankfully, She sees that my heart and will are true, and hasn't abandoned our struggle.

The recovery of Khonnir, explorations of the hill, Trett of the Technic League, Gharmin and the Fists, and the meddling of troublesome entities yet to be identified. All these distractions keep side-tracking us from the original goal, getting the fething Flame rekindled. There was something about a purple haired woman(?), but it's hard to focus when spending most of my effort trying to keep down breakfast.

Assisted Khonnir repairing the power coupling, and we made ready to return under the Hill. Cleared the last room on this level of automatons, Aiden's new toy seems to be quite effective. Now to get him wrapped in some fancy metals so he stays on his feet. Tyriis managed to reconnect the coupling with only minor scorching, my training is sorely lacking in this area. It's going to be a long, bloody process of OJT to catch up. Decended to Eng to look for the problem, found some hungry dogs. They went down fairly quick, and we poked around for a bit. Opening a door, the elf found some orcs and ratmen(?) equipped with reclaimed scrap. They attempted to reclaim us, but we put up a better fight than the surrounding rooms. No idea how long they've been here, or how they got in; we barely made it, and there's a trail of vital fluids to prove it.

Opened a main passageway to discover an elaborate barrier; arcs of green energy shooting back and forth at random intervals. Choosing not to test the physical effects, Tyriis carefully studied and shut the thing down(note to self, Really need to figure this stuff out). Moved into a multi-level room where the elf pointed out an oddity. It looked like a cornerpiece the stuffier religions use to decorate their halls, but this one flew up and dove into the party. We took turns pounding the thing, but weren't making much headway; even Aiden's toy was less than hoped. Tried Brigh's hammer and was rewarded with a clean hit, and partial disembowelment in return. The group was slowly falling to it's attacks, and in it's hubris, the creature slighted Brigh's power to effect events; She was not amused! The hammer may have glowed, but my arm shot forward, and the creature exploded in a cloud of gravel. I again pledge myself to She who has my back.

Moved among the bodies and found all to be at least breathing. Got everyone upright, and glanced around to see many odd devices and a false alter to an imaginary deity. This could take some time to unravel.

Hello? (tap, tap, tap) Is this thing on? Where the heck is everyone?

Spent more time searching for a direction to start, even a vague one. The geezer pointed at the map and started going on how he saw a face in the local terrain, the center/nose being the Lurkwood, NE of Riddleport. While this seemed to be coming in from way out in the cheap seats, it has been my experience that the gods have odd senses of humor(along with infinite cosmic power) and are much more survivable when you play along. A quick count of hands, we're going for a boat ride.

HUGE contacted his cousin(the one with the brand new ship) while others picked up a few supplies. A short stroll to the docks and we were getting settled for a cruise north. Thought I might lend a hand on the way, but everyone seems busily competent and I'm just in the way. Only diversion is to watch the comet get closer, we seem to be racing to the point of impact. A day or two out, it blasts apart and rains debris over a wide area. Unfortunately, our transport is targeted by several pieces and there are casualties. The wounded are fished out of the drink, the dead are left where they sank(these Northern guys aren't much for sentiment), and we continue on.

Passing Riddleport, we can see that the town has suffered damage, and much traffic headed inland. I can also see signs offering "pieces of the comet" for sale(did I call it, or what?), these guys work fast. Traveling upriver, we get the feeling large numbers are moving, all looking for their piece of the pie. No contact with any of the groups, I'm catching up on my reading. We land at a bend in the river, south of the woods, and prepare for our hike. HUGE changed into an eagle and flew off towards the mountains, don't remember hearing any plan. The group bustles along; tracking, identifying things, being generally industrious. We continue to be fifth wheels and follow along in the wake of all this activity.

End of the first day finds us in the woods marking the foothills of our target area. No sign of any other mobs, but set watches on our camp; no reason to be sloppy. Also, no sign of HUGE. Towards morning, we hear strange voices approaching camp, and others rousing. Stepping out, I see several demons(Nina confirms they are Nabaazu) talking with Lugh, who ISN'T attacking them maniacally. To make it more confusing, they say their boss sent them to touch base with Lugh, get things arranged. Names are traded back and forth, we don't seem to know the same creatures as them. Why do I get the feeling we're sitting at the kid's table, and the adults are all doing important things while we just hold our sippy cups? Eventually, they decide to leave, and since there is NO way we're getting back to sleep, we strike tents and head into the mountains.

Guess we'll wonder around for a while, see what we bump into. Don't figure folks looking for pieces of god-weapon are going to be real sociable, but there isn't much else for it. Be nice to find HUGE, but these are some fairly big peaks. The trees are starting to change up here, at least it will be a pretty walk.

How the heck did I end up back in Magnimar? Last I remember, we were hip-deep in sin spawn, fighting for our lives. Got to find another line of work where things aren't always hitting me in the head, could lead to permanent injury.

Seems the spawn were slowly ground down, some shadow demons were dealt with, and several of the kids were returned to Underbridge. One misses quite a bit when suffering a concussion. We were walking the bazaar, replacing supplies, when the others started appearing from the crowd. Something had given Atz an interesting box, a "gift" to the "Dark Slayers"(?) for their fine work. We have a name? When did that happen? Don't remember any meetings or votes, who decides this stuff? Oh yeah, the box.

Magical, possibly an extra-dimentional space. The new kid says the marking is of an important family down in the Mawangi. Never been there, pretty sure the others haven't either, so it's probably a trap. Don't see any of the usual triggers, so I pop it openWHAT THE HELL IS THAT!?!?!?!? Some kind of snake-thing made out of other snakes with more snakes attached came out and started flailing around. Kept hold of the box as it vented on me(did I mention the head thing?). Amid calls of "construct" and "immune to magic", finally got my weapon out as Nina wisely took a step back. The whole group piled in, and it finally went down. Not quite good enough for Oona, who continued to pound the carcass in an apparent attempt to send it back where it came from. She then sprang up, covered in gore, and began terrorizing the crowd to find the delivery thing. Did I mention we were on the edge of the bazaar, with hundreds of witnesses? Didn't get much; just the usual pointing, whispers, and the rolling of eyes.

After patching up, some of the group went to check out the elemental cultists, while the rest went to talk with the telescope guy out on the piling. The new kid ported a few there, but Nina thought we should just fly. Less chance of ending up in Cheliax, and much more scenic. On arriving, talked with a whole village of people who seem to live in this guys head(wonder if he used to be an adventurer till he took an arrow to the head?). Deciphering the many voices, he says the comet will land in the next day or so, possibly scattered over a large area. The mad glint in his eye tells me this will turn into a scavenger hunt, with thousands of participants. The landing isn't supposed to cause damage or injury, but I fear the slaughter when everyone starts grabbing for parts. Won't be surprised to see stands on every corner selling "pieces of the comet".

Took the box to a local seer, want to get a line on the latest thing that wants to shuffle off our mortal coils. During the reading, the man went catatonic and slid from his chair. At the same time, Nina got a vision of the succubus, but couldn't tell where it was. The thing must have been trying for an easy kill, or at least to send us south while it searches the bushes for terrasque eggs. Makes sense, the broad's been part of every bad thing happening; need to end that one real soon.

A false trail of us sailing for the south was laid, and we went into disguise. Staying at various inns and laying low while researching and equipping. So, what IS the best method of collecting scattered artifacts while avoiding dismemberment at the hands(claws/tentacles) of hordes of others doing the same thing for all the wrong reasons?

Now, I'm a crafter of some small skill, good with my hands; I get by. But, SWIMMING? Just ain't natural, how's a dwarf supposed to act?

Went to the temple for Joram's spell, stopped by the store, and arrived at the pond. Shooter found the path, and we all rushed in; yours' truly as graceful as a drunk auroch on ice. Thrashed around before finding the tunnel, not the most stylish entrance. While some were coughing up a few gallons of the pond, a couple local beetles introduced themselves. Being the size of small dogs, they got in some good licks before meeting their maker. Almost cut the git in half, but that sort of thing is to be expected when he's that skinny.

Patched folks up, and the shooter found a body down a side passage. Half-orc named Garda, used to fight for money around town; don't know how she got talked into this. Bastards took her stuff and just left the body, will have to remove the body after we find Khonnir and the others. Followed the tunnel to another beach and stream(connected?) and were looking around when a frog-thing appeared. It gave off a burst of light that blinded the bard, but the rest moved in to take it down. A body was found in the water, but was too chewed on to identify. Worked on some small wounds, but the bard says his sight will just take time.

The scout and I followed the stream to see if it leads back to the entrance, and check for survivors. He moves very well down here, but I guess my three left feet gave us away. Three blobs came at us, and proceeded to beat most of the stuffing out. The skinny one again got real close to the light, But Brigh saw fit to send him back. Beginning to give more weight to the rumor I've been hearing; folks say that nature thinks elves are delicious. No accounting for taste.

The kellid took the lead down more tunnels, found a large pile of junk from things I can only hope to find. There's a hoard of tech in here somewhere, can't wait to play in it. Came to a frosty chamber with a body to one side, big guy says it's full of "brown mold" that will freeze you solid. Also, fire makes it grow like crazy; important safety tip as I almost use Her blessing to flame the room. A rope is used to recover the body, that turns out to be Gerrol, a local who was part of Khonnir's group; another to bring out later.

The next passage gives a sense of unease, and leads to a large chamber. There are crude huts below, a large pit to one side, and a large metal door/hatch on the far side. As we moved, a shape stepped from the wall. It was a skulk, one of a group living here, and their leader asked our help. Some nasties were attacking them, and if we get rid of them, we get passage and reward. Twisting tunnels led to a spike trap that the kellid found with his thigh. Three of the gremlins ported in and started swinging;not much damage, but hard to hit. Finished them, plugged up the fighter, and moved on to a large chamber. It was filled with more junk, and the head runt. He was more of a fight, but was soon dog-piled. The far wall held another of the metal doors, but this one was closed. Checked the area, but only found another trap, which I cleverly sprung with my big feet.

Hobbled back to the skulks, who gave us a bag of silver discs and some information. A bunch led by a female with purple hair had gone through some days past, and left through the closed portal. They could be the idiots that shut down the flame. Khonnir had come by, taking the open door; our next goal. Before continuing, we return to town to pass on information and regroup. I hate to lose any more time, but it will take all the blessings She will provide to get through this pit.

The adventuring thing sounded a whole lot better when downing a cold brew. Note to self; pick up more Oldlaw.

Name's Grym, chief custodian and bottle washer in the service of her ladyship Brigh here in Torch. Don't get me wrong, I'm right where I want to be in the workings of the machine, but it's not all rainbows and unicorn farts down here in the cheap seats.

I work for Joram, head cleric around here. He's a great teacher and does a good job keeping us in line. He even managed to guide me into Her light, that says a lot for his patience. I've also been gifted with the guidance of Khonnir Baine, who runs the Foundry. I'm not much use on the arcane side, but have picked up loads of knowledge of technology. I even get along pretty well with Val most days, though there has been some head-butting; we both have such sweet tempers.

Know a few folks that help deal with the long days. One of the locals is a singer with close ties to Desna(or was it Callistra?), guess he's keeping his options open. There's a few guys who came in with the caravans; a fairy with shortswords, a swish with a letter opener, sour-faced guy with a pistol, and a meatwall lugging a greatsword. An odd bunch, but that's what you get in a small burgh like this.

Things have been real slow since the Flame went out; business falling off, people worrying. Khonnir led some folk through an underwater tunnel that was found to lead under the hill. They brought out a broken automaton and some strange stories,but weren't able to find the problem. They went back in a couple days ago, and have yet to return.

We were sitting at the Copper, spinning our gears and soaking up the brew, listening to the loose talk. One of the guards let on that the council was offering money for a rescue run under the hill. I'd been toying with the idea, but this might be some help to get me there. We headed to the Town Hall to ask around, and actually talked with Dolga. Seems the council is serious about this, and they want Khonnir back in one piece(probably the others, too). When we agreed to go, she even gave us vouchers to get gear at a discount.

We left the Hall, most to their lodgings to retrieve belongings, headed to the Foundry, where we'd be based. I went to the Temple, to let Joram know we'd accepted the job and how many there would be for his spell. He told me of what he knew of Khonnir's trip, and what we might find. It was like sitting at the grown-up table, really being listened to. Could get used to this.

Took my personal stuff and headed for the Foundry, needed to see how Val is doing and prepare for the run. Arrived to find that I had missed everything. The automaton was less broken than thought, and had tried to leave the workspace. Apparently, no one had taught it about doors, so it tried to make it's own. When the first three showed up and tried to slow it down, it tried to make doors in them. A close fight; the git finished it off after the bard brought the shooter back from the light. All I contributed was some clean up.

Got Val settled down and put our stuff in the main room. Need to visit the store and market and prepare for the descent. This will have to wait for the morning, have used most of Her blessings fixing folk. Finally get to put all this book learning to practical use. Save a friend, find lost wonders, restore the Flame, and be famous. This is what I signed on for!

Another fine bit of work.

After our altercation with the bouncers, a few minutes were taken to gather up and reattach various bits and pieces. While HUGE was engrossed with shark fest, I went to work on the door. Someone had gone to a lot of trouble to shield it from outside access, so the work was moving slowly. The crowd around me on the landing was getting restless, and as various sarcastic comments came up from below, I assured them that I was using the "good key". At which time the lock clicked, and the door was open; nothing to worry about there.

Walked into a small room with a half dozen kids sitting on the floor, playing game of marbles. As I began to inquire about their clubhouse, found myself suddenly facing a wall of angry. My keen senses informed me all was not quite right, as two were hovering at head height, and most of them were sticking sharp metal bits into me. As a pool formed around my feet, the room got tighter as the group packed in and laid into the miscreants. More sorcery, some in the back are singing as we chop away. HUGE moved to block their exit, but doesn't seem his usual, bloody self. Oona developed sudden maternal instincts and cleft one of the flyers to her breast; doesn't seem like the time or place for that sort of thing. As carnage continues, start thinning them out, and they break for the next room.

A guy behind a table is saying something about rowdy customers as the group finishes off the runt "harpies". The shooter seizes him up with a spell, and the whole place reeks horribly; again with the feces? Nina murmured "Edwin?" as Vex jumped on the table, stabbed the guy(reducing him to a pile of clean bones), and turned with a grin from earhole to earhole. I'm sure he didn't have anything interesting to say.

Macer led the way through a secret door one of the runts opened, to stairs going up the piling. HUGE found another that leads down, and went hunting. I commented on our past success with this tactic, and a few turned back to follow HUGE; he's very focused once he gets started. About then, Macer yelled down that there was a door at the top of the stairs, and some of us turned again to go up and support the fight that was sure to break out.

Arrived to find the old guy pulling the shooter from the door. She had unleashed a cold blast into a church service, but since they are heavily armed cultists, not likely to file complaints with the city guard. Moved into a room Full of nuts to see Macer grappling their leader by the altar. There are casters in here, but can't pick them out of the crowd. Nina has flown up to support from the doorway(very tight stairs) and we're making room to get more of us in.

There's only several dozen of them, how hard can it be?

Perhaps a bit of clarification is called for. When the thing shed it's covering and stood up, everyone was too busy to notice we were one short. Of course, the boys had charged in, with Oona right along side. She is a dear friend that I have known all my life, but she doesn't always manage to get all her oars in the water at the same time.

Heavily beset on all sides, the creatures next trick was to reverse gravity. As things flew upwards, most of us managed to grab one of the stairs and continue the fight. Some began porting about to close with it, so the bony thing moved above the floating detritus to stand on the underside of a landing. I granted myself flight, and went up to prove it was only resistant to flames. More popping brought people into range, and the bloodshed went on. It was finally rendered to pieces, and the mess raised by it's sorcery crashed to the ground.

Already up here, decided to scout above as the group collected themselves. Birgun returned to crow form and followed. Reached the clockwork room, which showed no sign of recent use, but heard something very large moving up in the statue room. Vanished and coasted slowly up for a peak, thank the Maker for discretion. A Meralith was stretched across the room, focused intently on the wall. I signaled Birgun that it was time to go, but of course he had to prove something by poking around. Passed Lugh on the way back down, telling him of the threat, but he had to be a manly man and continue. Arriving back at ground level, gave a short picture of what waited above, did a quick headcount, and went looking for my partner in crime.

Spotted him near the market, wearing the look he gets when his actions don't rate a lengthy saga, or at least a ballad. It changed to relief as I set down beside him(thank you)and I brought him up to date. We rushed back in case the others decided to go after the demon, but met them coming the other way. Birgun explained the state the lich had left the creature in, apparently another failure abandoned. It should keep while other problems are dealt with.

After a stop by Lugh's temple, we went looking for the cultists. Birgun returned to say one had taken a convert/captive to the Gull piling by boat, and he would return to watch until we arrived. Took Kelyn's boat and approached from an off side to avoid watchers. Landed at the base of the piling, stowed the craft, and moved toward the dock and stairs. Arriving, we see a man launched into the bay as the big guy roars in delight. Vex popped out of the water to say an aquatic humanoid was on watch below before moving to join the fight. As Kelyn climbed up to assist, I noticed several fins moving toward the splashing guard. He finished second in the race, and the sharks celebrated with a messy snack. While watching for the aquatic, heard an odd noise, and managed to dodge aside as parts of a second guard flopped down from above.

Another fine entry, these boys are about as subtle as an auroch in an apothecary.

Some days, it's just always Monday.

When the bony thing shed the meat suit, an almost palpable wave came off it. My mind went to dark places, and I came back to my wits leaning against a wall near the Bazaar. Had to have been more of the nutjob's sorcery, need to find a better defense. Started back toward the tower and spotted Nina headed my way, happily none the worse for combat. Seems I'm the only doof hit by the spell, but the beast was put down; hopefully it will stay there this time. She spoke of the demon in the chamber above the clockworks, and was concerned the others might not wait.

Hurried back, but ran into the group on their way out. HUGE had hung around and saw that it had been severely fettered by the nut, so it will keep for now. No way something that big can manage those stairs, especially blind. Stopped by the temple(of course)and decided to track down some of the more rabid cultists. HUGE found one leading off a new convert, and followed them as they rowed out to the Gull piling. He returned for us, and without wasting time on a plan, we moved to trap them in their lair.

Along the Dockway, I put the boat in the water, and we moved to approach from a side and avoid lookouts. Spotted someone with a large telescope on top of the next piling, seems to be tracking the comet; something else to check if we find time. Landed on the scree, put away the boat, and moved to the entrance. Vex surfaced to say some kind of fish guy was guarding under water as HUGE appeared behind two guys covering a door at the top of some stairs. As I climbed to assist, he shoved one off into the bay, and drew on the other. This one seems to be a fair hand with a cleaver, and a good deal of blood is spilled. He seemed put out when I ventilated his spleen when he tried to make me shark bait. Where are my manners? Nina had kindly pointed out that several of the local wildlife were moving in, and had gotten to the other guard before he had quite reached the dock. Then the rest arrived and pounded the talented guard before the big guy split him. I always thought it was just a late night drinking story about someone falling in two pieces, but there it was; kind of thing that will bring up yesterdays lunch if your not ready for it.

Well, the sharks are busy and no one's blocking the door; might as well go in. Where the heck is that fish guy?

My, how time flies when you're squandering it.

We've been pounding the streets checking on all the "priests" wailing about the comet's approach. They generally fall into two groups, nutters and opportunists. The first seem to really believe their own drivel, no cause for concern. The second bunch are the usual bottom-feeders looking to separate the rubes from their coin, just another day in Magnimar. The problem is, when notes are compared, a couple stand out as agents of something darker that needs to be aired out and shown the light of day(like the religious reference?).

Discussing possible plans, it was proposed we check the clock tower, where we found the big golem arm. blink, blink blink. My first thought was there was no way it could connect to the lich, but I often forget that there are things even older than Father. Then I began assembling a herd of runaway fears and rampant impossibilities before collecting up tools for the side trip.

Arriving at the tower, am again amazed to find it basically upright. Try not to do the math, everything I've ever read proves the thing should have fallen and taken a big section of Underbridge long ago. Have seen way too much that couldn't happen, don't sweat the small stuff. Wasn't looking forward to the climb; have packed on a few pounds since the last time, and don't figure the years have been kind to the structural integrity of the stairs.

We fanned out in the main chamber, skirting the bell and wagon. HUGE started calling at something over in a corner, and a large form stood up. The golem appeared whole(repaired?) and ready for a fight. After a brief scrum, it went down, only causing major damage and blood loss. As we were counting heads(and limbs), the pile started moving. Something rose from the mess, shedding the golem's skin like an off-the-rack tunic. What we now face is a bony horror, about half again the size of the golem, but waaaay more angry.

Like I mentioned before, just another day in Magnimar!

While HUGE and Vex handled the were to the south, the other slammed into the shooter and her shield; it's like they can smell the new on them. Most of us moved north as the other's time was clearly limited, but I have concerns about the six on one thing. Weapons and spells lay into the canine menace, and they eventually go down. HUGE continues toward the big house; Vex may be following him, but who can tell? We move to the sounds of combat from the pit where Macer has joined Lugh. These things aren't your grandma's ghouls, they are thick! I jump down to cover the rear while Nina wisely chooses to remain topside to cover and support.

Don't know if it's my fault, but suddenly there is adventurer rainfall, and the whole group is down here. Just to keep it fair, more uber-ghouls slam in from the other direction; right into the sellsword. I admit to taking the time to check if the new guys have steaks tied around their necks, but it's just luck of the draw. We hack, slam, and shoot repeatedly, but don't seem to be getting very far. I seem to be faring better than some of the others, not that I'm complaining about being overlooked. Nina says that the bad guys prefer less reactive prey; makes sense, but want to be part of the effort.

Another wave of undead moves in, their crawling along the walls like maniacal spiders. Lugh yells to fall back, staying will mean certain death. Suddenly, I'm standing next to Nina(have I mentioned recently how much this woman means to me......pardon, back to the fight) and turn to assist the withdrawal. the others calmly hoist themselves out and dust off before starting for the wall. Who knew that rampaging undead could be so civil in a tight situation? We picked up some cuts and scrapes in our tactical rout, but make it back to the road. Vex and HUGE rejoin us and say the ghouls are slaughtering the canines and taking over. Time for more planning.

Cleaned up, we gather to compare notes. No idea what the lich has done to the ghouls, but the deep end has gotten way deeper. HUGE, Lugh, and the fossil are in the corner, making master plans for the following days. I talk with Nina about fighting things that resist flame and blade, will ask around for more ideas. Nothing like being a legless man in a butt-kicking contest.

Cleaned up, we gathered in the library to talk about how to proceed. The butler announced guests, and led in a twelve year old girl and a fossil in armor. The girl blurted she was there to see her friend Felu, and things went south. From their looks, we had put on our murder faces and it went quiet. We explained that Felu had fallen and been taken, and that her partner had left to rectify this. We were in the middle of a large job, and had to make new plans. She said it was a good thing they showed up, because they have skills that will help us out(blink, blinkblink). HUGE informed them to return the following evening, and we could talk more then. They seemed put out, but said they would return.

A long night of little sleep, got an early start on the day. Went through the market to replace things used up the day before, and headed home to talk with Mother. We needed more information, and I wanted her counsel. She noted our anxiety, but when I produced one of the blue vials, she went pale. My siblings were rushed out on various errands(which I'm going to pay for later) and we moved to the study. She told a tale from years past of coming upon a man, gravely wounded and fading. He produced two of these vials and pleaded for her to use them on him. As he spoke, he passed and rapidly began changing, withering away. She used the first, and the man fleshed out and regained a bit of color, but was still quite dead. When nothing further happened, she used the second, and witnessed a small miracle. The years fell away from him till he looked a healthy man in his twenties. He then took a deep breath and opened his eyes.

After thanking Mother, explained that he had been taken by an undead many years before, but had been unable to undo the curse. He learned that powerful undead hunted for these vials constantly, but he never learned details, just that it came from "elsewhere". He said he must travel far away, as those he borrowed from would not be kind to any who helped him, and she never saw him again. She had attempted to find more about the vials, but the few with any knowledge of them were unwilling to share; seems that putting down vampires runs in the family. The main point she wished to make was that the vials, while powerful and valuable, should be kept hidden. Those who know what it is will destroy to acquire them. Also talked at length about the vampires we put down, the wolf creatures infesting the manor, and the lich who likes to experiment with the living. Mostly want others to know of the problems, more help will be required to clear them up.

Returned to Deverin's to share with the others and talk to the girl. She's a caster that uses a firearm(?)to channel spells, and he is a sellsword that keeps angry things at a distance. Just hope he can keep up, there's a lot of winters behind that one. It was decided to bring them along tomorrow, see what they can do. Don't have an extensive plan, but the goal seems obvious.

Next morning, hopped the wall and started toward the high ground around the manor; wolves first, then the misc undead. HUGE shaped into a dire wolf(luckily heavily armored so we could tell him from the rest)and took off to the right; so much for the meager plan. Followed a short distance back, but the group didn't do so well with noise discipline. Passed a shed HUGE had marked "undead" and saw him approach a were toward the big house. As we moved on it, noticed the new folk had fallen behind and tried to get them to close up. Just then, many dire wolves sprang from all sides. A lively scrum with much tripping and bleeding, we eventually put them down and regroup. I still have questions about the new recruits, but the day is still young and they will have many chances to shine. There seem to be two more of the weres approaching(no telling how many dogs)and Lugh has "found" a ghoul tunnel to explore. So much to do, so many unnatural things to put down.

For the life of me, I'm still not sure what just happened.

Things start with HUGE, Lugh, and me around the boss and Vex leaped into the rafters with six of her underlings. That is one brave individual; might of been a bit of miscalculation, but it sure did look good. The floor fight began with some quick moves, but we soon found that we had drifted into deeper water. This one was fast and tough as iron; new tactics are called for. I recalled some of my more obscure training and distracted her, giving the others more openings. Not as heroic as hacking away, but damage was being done. Sadly, It was giving terrible wounds all around. Nina tried to remove the roof with fire, but all was solid stone, and she turned to support Vex from the stairwell. It tried to stop me with it's gaze, and nearly succeeded, but the warmth from Lugh's talisman kept me in the fight.

Was holding my own, due in large part to the battering given by our warriors, when I noticed a distinct lack of said warriors. Dead or dying, no way to tell as It turns on me. Parried a few, but other attacks get through and the cold washes over. Felu is being pressed hard, and it seems Sam has joined with them; that gaze is a harsh thing. Nina calls that her spells run thin, but they are enough to free up Vex, who jumps down to help my hapless flailing. It finally succumbs, and three of us(four, if you count Sam standing idly by the door) on our feet. A quick check shows Lugh and HUGE clinging to life, Oona has passed beyond, but Felu is just gone! I look about while using up our potions, but she is nowhere to be found.

In a dull monotone, Sam said Felu had been claimed by the devil who owns her soul, and to give the blue stuff we found on other vampires to Oona. Will get back to the first part, but the fluid quickly brought her back; no idea what it is, but may be the safeguard I've been hunting. Will have to be very careful with this. Tried a few things to get Sam back, but had only limited success. It was enough for him to grasp the part he had in Felu's death, something snapped inside. It finally took some of the blue stuff to bring him back fully. He(and Oona) act almost like pesh addicts, gazing longingly at the vials; what have we stumbled into?

Careful search and looting of the vampire crypt and their remains are dealt with. Another portable hole is found(did I mention careful?) and HUGE uses them to move us back to the manor. While trying to staunch all the wounds, we talk and try to make sense of what happened. Sam has decided to return to his uncle, says he can "save her" and will not be swayed. Their loss tears a big hole in the group.

Guess I was sitting slack-jawed for some time before Nina brought me back. My mind still can't focus on what might have happened if I'd given in to that gaze; not sure I could match Sam's calm demeanor. And for all we went through, I don't feel any more competent, and that undead thing still waits in the marsh. The luster of this lifestyle definitely been ground off with a sharp stone, but who's going to do it if not us? Might be the drain talking, but am NOT feeling very invincible(no matter how I hold my thumb and forefinger).

Time to jump down the rabbit hole, those hungry vampires won't wait on us all day!

HUGE led the way down the stair when all felt ready to engage. As he reached the bottom, there were several meaty thumps and a call of "vampire". Nina and I were discussing options as the entire group surged past to join in, turning the corridor into a mosh pit. I was left to watch the other direction as Nina healed HUGE(again with the low dice rolls). While the others were curb-stomping the first leech, another ran up to disembowel me. Enjoyed a bit of sport slapping it's knuckles with the badger, it seemed put out until they both did the smoky withdrawl thing. Minor patch work and the group went around the left to discover double doors. As we were lining up to enter, four more parasites leaped out of the walls and started their usual savagery. Currently unoccupied, I moved to support Sam(not a fan of close encounters), while Nina moved toward Felu and Vex. He would be one of the last to request assistance, but he does appreciate a good flanking partner. Nina showed the stirge a new trick by funneling a fireball through her sword; by all reports, it was not pleased with this surprise.

Much butchery later, the pests were smoked and we lined up on the doors again. HUGE couldn't help himself, and "blinked" through the door as I worked to unlock it; if you guys don't want me to waste time with this stuff, just tell me. Burst into the chamber to find stacked caskets and no opposition. The six from earlier were inside trying to recover, and were quickly stacked and beheaded. This left the boss thing and six more, presumably above to cut us off. Piled the boxes and contents in the chamber, and Nina dropped another fireball to leave any escapees out in the cold.

Huge was first back up the stair to find it closed. Used all those muscles and tendons to shove the stone aside and let the fight begin. The female faces HUGE, and from the yelling, the underlings have decided to play spiders in the rafters. Our current clogged condition will make this an interesting tactical problem, but I'm sure the group will throw a little light on the situation.

So I'd finally been talked down from the assassination conspiracy rant and put my soapbox back in the portable hole, when there's a knock at the door. It's Kiara, and she's assuring me there isn't any conspiracy, and starts going into some other information. The whole time I'm thinking how did she know about this and how can I believe someone who could be at the center of it? Have found that it is impossible to look every direction at the same time, and may have done permanent damage to my neck trying.

This has been a good time. We're back in real civilization catching up and getting ready for the next bit of work. I may have commissioned the most expensive piece of silk in town, can't wait to see how this works out. Other irons in the fire, we start focusing on the Kaijitsu manor. HUGE spends much time in other forms watching the estate and many many flavors of dog that inhabit the grounds while others hit the books to research everything forgotten since the last go round. All seems quiet and boring till the bright idea comes up to watch at NIGHT; suddenly the place looks like the marshaling camp of a major invasion. Coaches and wagons at all hours, deliveries and shipments, and some bizarre characters. There is a woman camped in the graveyard, believed to be a vampire. Looks to be in charge of the dog things/guard force; small potatoes. The problem is this odd guy who visits for a few days at a time; bad hair, weird clothes, likes to stitch together and animate "things". Nina's look tells me I should be laid out on the ground, drooling or worse. She describes an ancient, powerful undead creature who will undoubtedly take a dim view of our kicking over this anthill.

Plans begin to form; HUGE grabbed one of the constructs, who was full of useful information once it figured we wouldn't eat it or send it back. The lich(?) is predictable, so we plan to hit the toothy one about noon the day after he leaves. Nother vampire under our belts and we can move on to serious work.

Using spells and stealth, we enter the estate and move along the northern end. We stay below the patrols line of sight until coming even with the big tomb. Move up to the trees and I circle around to open the door. Group sneaks in and the door is closed without tripping any alarms. A search shows a standard layout, with all the activity in the rear. HUGE, with a couple of us giving moral support, slides open the massive lid to reveal stairs twisting down into the hill. Guess it was too much to hope she would be napping quietly for us to slaughter, but the possibility of rooms stuffed with loot does shine a bit of light on things. Got to keep a positive attitude in this line of work, the other side is SO depressing.

Wait just a minute. There have been several "coincidences" lately, and I'm beginning to smell a familiar species of vermin. Hate to credit the other side with any level of intellect, but am thinking they put out contracts on us. We're not real hard to pick out of a crowd(we make up a good part of one), but this is lining up too easy. Need to talk to that woman following HUGE around(definitely a K name, it'll come to me), she may know something as it's her line of work. Hold on, what if she's on the job HERSELF? HUGE doesn't seem all that enamored of her, but she keeps hanging around.

Many questions, need to talk to Lugh about interrogations. I do NOT plan on being some soul-less schmuck's bounty!

Another fine day in Drudgeville. Readied spells and equipment for the big haul, and found that others would be taking care of things. Lugh, sort of knowing the way, would lead in gaseous form and HUGE would do the heavy lifting as an earth elemental. He's taking the storage unit so he can collect loot without shifting form, a time and resource saver. We retired to a small cafe down the road to wait to assist, while Felu and Sam returned to the inn to recover their things ahead of our usual short-notice departure.

Sampled the mediocre fare as we waited on the intrepid explorers(wouldn't be a bad place if it had a decent cook, sunshine, and a population that knew how to smile on occasion). Fido showed up to tell us that Felu and Sam had been detained by the local law, and had allowed themselves to be shackled and taken in without death and explosions; must be a different Felu and Sam. The explorers finally returned with a story of hunting vampires and near misses. They had one set of loot, but a sneaky one had set an ambush at Malik's hold.

We then moved down the road to the local lockup. Frontal assault seemed messy, so Nina made the two of us gaseous, and we went in search of our criminals. Found Sam in a dingy cell wearing dimensional shackles; love these things, twist the wrists a few times while holding your tongue just so, and the things just fall off. Guess that isn't common knowledge, just as well. Floated down the hall to find Felu, who had not been accorded the best treatment to be expected by a cooperative guest; probably need to return some day and look into serious urban renewal. It's really difficult to remain a good person when surrounded by small, petty oafs. Released Felu, Sam stowed the shackles for later, and blinked the two of them out. We floated at a more sedate pace to rejoin the others and figured it was time to blow this mead stand.

Traveled several miles into the forest and set a hidden camp. HUGE and Lugh returned the following day to clear out Malik's goodies, and it was time to head home. Sailed rivers and the big lake in my mighty vessel, arriving at the true capital; not a big improvement. We were having a look around before taking passage south, when a couple thugs showed us the local hospitality. They attempted to shove us in an alley and play a round of "Kill 'em and Take Their Stuff". We politely declined, but they were most insistent as the general population turned a blind eye. I traded organs with the two as Nina dropped unpleasentries on them. They finally broke off their murder attempt, but we decided not to pursue as we had both been seriously mauled. As we patched each other up, I checked Nina closely, and she assured me I also wasn't wearing a sign that said "Kill Me, Please". Staggered back to the docks with bared weapons, thinking maybe the whole country should be plowed under and reseeded; probably the best idea in the long run.

Long travels by ship and wagon, with only a few episodes of murderous intent. A wonderful day when we return to Magnimar, settling into familiar surroundings. Hobart got word of our arrival, and threw another lavish party. An amazing evening of family and friends, a huge weight has been lifted from me. Nina is smiling, and has stopped giving me all those concerned looks. Tonight is for celebration, tomorrow I'll figure how to use this pile of coin to foil these attempts to shuffle off my mortal coil.

It was a magnificent journey. Ranks of gleaming warriors held the center as tall barbarians from the northern wastes fell upon their flanks and lines of southern spearmen charged in. All the while, brilliant magics and thunderous volleys ripped through our foes, human and otherworldly. We moved from victory to victory, nothing could stop our crusade.

We took ship and carried our fight to the south. We sank brazen corsairs, battled monsters from the deep, and scattered fleets that dared oppose us. These were heady times, standing at the prow of a mighty ship with Nina beside me.... Nina?...

Things are a little fuzzy; that's Nina, but everything else seems wrong. Did I get hit in the head again? It does happen pretty often. She has a look; damn, what did I do now? No, that's concern, not anger; what DID I do? Asked what I had missed, but all that came out was someone stepping on a frog. Took a bit of water as she explained I had come down with a persistent fever as we traveled from Fort Dolar. We were now in Ardis, and people are checking into the key found on the vampire. Eventually sat up to discover I'm a sweat-soaked wreck in a shabby little room; you know, this looks just like the crappy bordello we rescued Epher from in Magnimar, when he was trying to show us how much of a man he was. Don't think I've ever seen women that mad before or since, but it was their own fault for not making sure he had the coin first.

Staggered out of bed, got too good a look at my condition, and excused myself to the stable yard. Stripped off my filthy rags and burned them on the spot. Then spent the next half hour scrubbing in a trough, then made sure to dump it out and refill with fresh water. No reason for the animals to suffer, I'd done enough for all of us. Returned to the room with all possible dignity; might have worked better if I had remembered to bring a change of clothes, but these people look like they need something to gossip about.

With the extra coin from our recent fracas, I need to spoil the heck out of a certain young lady and attempt to make up for my most recent failures. Also need to get some color back and get ready for our social call.

Minor clean-up and repair as HUGER stomps over to the portal. Whats-his-butt had fled through, and he figured it would send anything dumb enough back at us. I joined him and covered Nina as she worked with Sata....Sam to find the OFF switch. Wasn't long before the light shimmered and a bird demon stepped out into HUGER's sword. The badger was happy to participate and it soon decided to attempt a tactical retrograde. HUGER assisted with another swing; I don't think it arrived safely at it's destination.

Stood around feeling pretty good about ourselves while the arcane types continued to whiteboard the portal thing. More shimmering, and HUGER led off with a mighty swing; into a Horned Devil(a devil, with horns, very original. Does someone get paid to think these up?). Bad idea; thought I might repeat my earlier panic, but it saved me by removing my kidneys and sending me into a stupor. Much groveling and bald-faced lying later, my limited senses returned to find it gone and others working at a fevered pace to shut down the gate. The solution involved large people, many tools, and wanton destruction; smiles all around, but no one felt reconnected. It also took lots of time, so we moved back to our previous hide to rest.

Moved back to the captive chamber to find most of them intact. Scratchybutt(really, does a five year old name these guys?) had ported in and grabbed a couple during the night, but we guided the rest through the tunnels and fog to the real world. Those so attuned got re-acquainted with higher, while I just got the heebie-jeebies again. Took a few days to reach the fort, no squadrons of demons along the way. Glossed over most of the last month(?) and started working on our next move; the spirit couldn't cross back with us, so it looks like a hike.

Locals brought a story of troubles at the temple of Desna rebuild(sigh). A search turned up an entrance and stairs, so we headed into the depths. Led to a set of double doors, but HUGE thought he saw a way around. What he found was a fireball trap, and just to be sure, Atz checked the other side and set off another. I staggered to check the doors as HUGE got angry and ported again. A muffled voice from the other side yelled something about "skeleton key"; oh yeah, that thing is really handy. As the lock clicked open, Macer smashed the door wide with his face and entered combat. Followed in to find an eagle(HUGE?) tearing at an Alu, so Nina and I gave ranged support. Confused combat, and the opposition is eliminated.

Do all temples have a secret lair for evil masterminds underneath them? Seems like bad planning, and am not looking forward to checking them all. May need to franchise this operation, or at least hire some more help.

Once more into the grinder, need a minute to get all these ducks in a row. Am going to have to hire a bard and a herald keep track of what's happening(and fix the shoddy editing!).

During the brief ceasefire following the board meeting, thoughts turn to liberating the captives in the pit. From bits of conversation, they are being used to fuel the portal, and it's the devils job to keep them alive until Itchycrotch is ready for them. Much conniving follows as we attempt to circumnavigate their contract, "working" for demons is a major selling point. During negotiations, a ruckus draws all to the pit. A woman has backed the others away, seems something has infested her(blob demons?) and is working hard to get out. Since she's damaging other captives, the devils send two down to sort her out, but they just collapse to the floor. Apparently annual performance reviews are coming up as the devils get agitated and 'port three more in to put down the threat. She responds by absorbing one of them and growing.

The thing is now a large, dark blob that resembles a creature we encountered on the Sandpoint road some time back. It appears solid, but quivers like jelly when it moves. By this time, everyone is throwing anything they can find(including themselves) at the thing as it consumes another devil; even a few captives are flailing away at it. I'd kicked down a rope ladder, and we were a steady stream of the smarter ones exit the pit. Turned crowd control over to Nina and was preparing to join the mosh pit when the thing took a cue from the devils, and ported across the pit, swallowing(?) a handful of captives and growing even larger. This put in reach of us still up top, so all laid into it and brought it down. As thoughts turned towards dealing with the depleted devils, they were recalled(or took a powder), and we moved to the next concern.

The captives were gathered up and looked over. They aren't in the best shape, but there is no time to get them out and back where they belong. Several are soldiers from the fort, so have them collect equipment from the cultists and move to one of the raised areas where they can lay low. I remove supplies from storage(food, water, etc), and they settle in as we ready to move on the portal. We trudge for a few hours until it becomes obvious that it's time to rest(hard to tell this far underground, something about cicadas). Move onto a ledge and set watches, ignoring a few wandering lower planars during the night.

The next morning, we set off, rested and replenished. Several hours and sore feet bring us to another huge cavern; seems to be a rest camp for displaced planars. Demons and devils co-mingle while small devils(that look just like Sam's "familiar", more questions for later) use flames to melt large sheets of ice. The center of attention is a large purple field of energy and the chain-devil-thing(looks familiar, but I just can't place it) standing before it, holding a sacrifice. They are quite intent on their business, and don't seem to notice our group moving into tactical positions.

HUGE starts this dance with a new trick, leaping across the chamber(what does that boy eat?) into some demons. I move up in support(did I mention it's a Really big place? Macer may be on to something horse idea) while Nina puts blasts around the gate. I try to thin out the flame devils, but miss horribly and am totally ignored; conduct like this just kills the self-esteem. I abandon the midgets, and move into the general melee. Play-by-play is impossible as weapons, spells, and bodies fly everywhere. We make progress, chewing through the mob toward the gate. Nina spots a couple sneaky demons joining the party, but they seem more interested in negotiating their position(fine by me, already got an acre of unfriendly here). Disembowelments and burning all around; Itchycrotch grabs a last captive and jumps through the portal as another voice joins the party. The damn succ from Fort Dollar has appeared, this thing is beginning to annoy me(and doesn't seem likely to get a Miss Popularity sash from anyone else). We dive in to shred it, but it blinks away as before. HUGER's bellows are truly deafening and reflect the general anger.

We're left in another corpse-littered battlefield, with little to show for our efforts, and much to put right. Now, just how are we supposed to shut that purple thing off?

After the trauma team finished up, we took a few to catch our breath. The casters were deep in thought absorbing new magics limbered up and checked the area. Concern was evident towards the separation from higher powers, but all seemed fully capable and we moved on. Traveled quite some distance into the mountain(?) until coming upon an occupied stretch.

Vex, Atz, and I crept forward with HUGE close behind. Spotted trios of the black archers from the witch's shack and a group of devils like the one that guarded the succubus. This place is like "Henchmen-R-Us, we work for anybody". Glanced back at HUGE and saw that light in his eyes as he drew his sword. Vex flowed to the right as the bull pointed up the middle, so I decided to start the dance by getting acquainted with the bunch on the left. The badger obliged by opening the first like a pinata, Atz close behind with his trusty sling. Traveling to another reality doesn't seem to have any negative effect on my blade, and the opposition is quickly dispatched.

Moved back to the center to rejoin Nina as the devils show off a new trick. They 'ported around Felu and Sam and released "power"; it was like standing before gigantic, bass horns that shook my very soul. Being to the side, I was able to endure it and carve away at one of the tall figures. Guess we got their attention, and they blinked around Nina and I, focusing their rage. While I had recently bolstered my resolve, it was no match for this assault and all reason vanished. The inner animal took over, saw a small chance of escape, and abandoned all else.

No idea how much time passed before the dwarf regained control of the booth. Many thoughts assailed me, but the first was the fact that I'd come in second in a contest of personal hygiene. While I have never attempted it, am sure it is impossible to cut a dashing figure with soggy drawers. Prestidigitation ensues!(this is such a handy thing, don't know how anyone gets along without it). Wait...where is Nina? For that matter, where's the badger; hard to protect one without the other. IDIOT!!!!!

Race back up the tunnel, fearing the worst and thinking of all the pain I will inflict. Finally arrive back at the chamber to find Sam in a heated board meeting with the objects of my wrath, and he seems to be holding more than his own. Nina joins me and I stumble through clumsy apologies(and check if she requires hygienic magics, but of course, she's perfect) as she smiles and floats my blade out of the school of sharks. Combat resumes at HUGER's expense, so we skirt around the heated debate(get it? devils?.....anybody?) to join him.

Nina went left to gain LOS as I started up the wall to see what had HUGER's attention. She dropped one of her new spells that engulfed our enemies(and Vex, but he just laughed) and I gained the top, to see the thing trading swings with HUGER. Not a clue what it is, but unleash the badger as Vex finished the archers. HUGER cleaves the creature and takes a knee, leaking from uncounted wounds. Atz moved in to start triage as the board meeting was breaking up. Much shoulder slapping and fist bumping, looks like Sam pulled a big one from his nether regions.

Looks like we're off the menu for the immediate future, but there's talk of more of the creatures just ahead. No one to blame but myself, it's not like I signed on as an apprentice basket weaver. Well, roll out the bandages and pick up that spleen; somebody's going to be looking for it.

Just what kind of sewer have you been keeping your mind in? I'm wondering what sort of things you learned in that "church". Here I am removing the viscera of combat, trying to give this bunch a little class. May have to have words with your mother next time we're in Magnimar, arrange a bit of lye-based attitude adjustment.

So, just how drunk does one have to be to think of crossing a bear and an owl? Seems my brothers aren't as unique as I had believed.

Moved into the large, well-lit cavern toward the mutant, but it backed off to a far corner; I'd expected more violence. The large ones followed after it while others split off to find any friends that may be skulking about. Lucky us, we found two floating, burning skulls! Their version of saying hello involved fireballs, we returned the favor. Nina and Sam pelted them with spells while Felu and I blasted away. This drainpipe of mine does throw a weighty ball, but the lady does have a marked advantage in rate of fire. Finished them off, but came out of it looking like the losing end of a fire sale. The bear-thing was down, but some blobs had tried to grab its' juice and spawned other things. These were also squashed, and we flushed out more blobs before they tried anything.

Quick patch jobs as we moved to the obvious exit; a passage filled with mist that has small sparks flashing through. Nina says it isn't magical, I quickly tired of waiting(whole seconds!), how bad can it be? Walked up the passage, a half dozen steps bringing me through the odd-feeling mist, to a chamber rather filled by two ogre hulks(with flails!). Guess this is where the witch hired her muscle. They turned to me with less than friendly smiles, and I felt the others would like to know of this development. Popped back through the fog, expecting concern when learning of the threat, but was almost trampled by screaming loons. Guess they were ready for a straight up fight after the weirdness. Took Nina's hand, and led her to the next crime scene.

As we entered, a pink mist had begun to form and people were dashing about. Nina layed in with powerful magics as I moved up to get a bit more personal. An ogre moved in and I parried his swing(fun fact; blocking something the size of a tree trunk is very different from stopping a longsword). Quick calculations made from the floor tell me this will be a painful learning experience. Kip-up and back into the fray. Hard to measure our progress; the air is rather thick, and am covered in gore(reasonably sure most of it belongs to the ogre and Macer). The brutes finally fall, and I'm surrounded by staggering, broken forms that may be my friends. Am rather concerned that HUGE is in the middle of this carnage, laughing, with an odd light in his eyes. Note to self; make sure Atz treats this one carefully.

Something is different. Not feeling the presence watching(judging?) my actions. On the other hand, this beating has knocked things around and cleared my mind. Several moves and tricks that have escaped me are now obvious, new ideas are forming. Turn to Nina to share this, and am greeted by a calm smile; she leans close and whispers "fireball". A quick embrace, which is somewhat lessened by the fact that we're covered with the gore of friend and foe. Prestidigitation ensues, it will take quite some time to clear out this emergency ward.

Not sure what's going on, but feeling better about our chances. A lot of positive waves here.

"So, two demons and a devil walk into a bar and start arguing....."

Woke up late; what didn't we drink last night/this morning? Think I was being too optimistic with that noon start time. Much running around, bit to eat(?), luckily things are already packed. Thanks and farewell to Hobart, almost had to carry Nina out to make the east Gate. We are only ten for the north, the trip feels shorter and that should probably cause concern. Near the fort, our guide says he will not be able to join us. Black lines run through his form, and he vanishes with something about sparing us the sight. Felu's expression speaks volumes, I don't envy his path.

We are again outside Fort Dolar; from our vantage, we can see many soldiers on post and townspeople moving about. Seems the Captain has skill when not beset by demons. Pass through quickly to avoid upsetting the balance, and continue to the shack. Couldn't help taking a quick look inside, minor evidence of things rooting around. The more medically minded are troubled, the ogre's carcass seems to only have been dead about five days. My calender is broken, but since the spirit took a powder, guess there won't be an explanation.

Continue on, nice weather for hiking and camping. A garbage monster is spotted at a distance, all agree that it should be deep underground, not on walk-about. This portal must really be shaking things up. There's grumbling about pine cones, but we're in the woods, this is where they come from. Have been hearing odd things, but the second night, loud arguing broke out nearby. Nina was able to pick out a minor devil and two large demons. Talked with HUGE and Atz on watch, decided to lay low and inform the following shifts. Quieted down later, but just before dawn, fliers(not the loud ones?) passing nearby noticed the camp and stopped for a visit. Lively exchange as three winged demons ridden by smaller demons(well one was being savaged by a devil) met adventurers in nightclothes. Much confusion, but the demons were put down and the devil allowed to leave. Enemy of my enemies? Still trying to get my head around that one.

Next morning, got to the cave where Sam spotted a small blob of shadow. Says it's like the thing that afflicted Hobart, so the open barn door is making life real interesting. Moving in, more blobs are sensed, and we find something eating a deer. Am told it's an owlbear, but the eyes aren't supposed to glow like that. Looks like another fine day of adventuring.

One last thing; just how does one go about closing a portal?

WHISKEY TANGO FOXTROT, CHUCK?

What a surprise. Nina turned a few nudges into a farewell event. I will admit it probably didn't take much to sell Hobart, the change has been amazing. The staff, even the house, seem brighter and happier, as if they had been waiting for the true Hobart to return. All turned out in their finest, the ladies truly sparkled. Often wrongly accused of bias, I know The Truth and was gifted with the fairest company.

Could hardly keep track of the extended families, but who would pass up a feed at one of the big houses on the hill? A great night of music, dance, stories, boasts, lies(redundant?); uncomfortable moments as certain lapses in seamanship were recounted, but most spent some time on the spit. Was surprised even the spirit was in attendance, especially as he looked material, in close conversation with our host. I expected to see Fujiko from next door, but forgot to check the library.

Many acquaintances were renewed, and several were made. They had a chance to catch up on each others lives and what their dumb kids had been doing. I hope the families can benefit as much from the friendship as we have. It was a great celebration, even Macer showed restraint by not getting plowed and causing another scene. I do wonder about the Kiara/HUGE thing; she keeps pitching 'em, but he keeps missing 'em. Will we be eleven for the coach tomorrow?

Well, Cayden willing and the Kraken doesn't rise, we should be on the road by noon at the latest!

Wet clean-up in aisle five!

Took a while to separate the combatants into piles of good, bad, and undecided. Atz weighed in to patch up our big guys, and the "captain" was looked over. He remains manacled as some aren't warming up to his story. As for the bad pile, Vex has staked out a piece of floor and begun his studies. Surrounded by his tools, Vex is carefully dismembering the succ, filling his book with extensive notes and drawings. That is one driven, mid-functioning sociopath; having trouble finishing up as I keep stopping and shivering.

Some interesting items are collected, the thing had good gear. There is a good bit of spirited conversation over some amazing items, but will have to wait as they take time to attune. I'm allowed a ring that makes me a bit bouncy(er), probably to cut down on the amount of viscera post-battle; works for me! Soon as he was mostly intact, HUGE rushed out with his truesight to find how many more townfolk were actually demons. Returned later, somewhat dejected, to report he had found no others. Lugh continued to cross-examine the captain and we moved to the front of the shop to lay low and miss out on the rest of the biology lesson. The group decides to wait till evening, then all go out to make Macer's meeting with the guard LT. Should be interesting as the captain says he never had an LT.

At dusk, the quieter of us lead out to scout and counter a possible ambush Macer might happen into. Find a mixed bunch of men and dwarves off-loading wagons in the middle of the road, then soldiers drive wagons back to town. The LT talks to the remaining and has them take cover behind some piles(what is that awful smell?). Later, a light shows as Macer, a cloaked figure, and a dog(?) approach. Macer and the LT exchange pleasantries, the man sure has the gift of gab. Things get heated, spells are thrown, everyone got tired talking. Those hiding near the LT step out with crossbows and use Macer as a target. We crash through the brush as the dog goes HUGE and gets HUGER, Macer clanking in his wake. Nina dropped a large pile of goo on the opposition to slow them down, but they don't seem too put out(may have stepped in the deep end, here). HUGER yells that the LT isn't; not sure what, just be careful. The BIG guys move to that side as the rest work over the men, dwarves, and boars(?) that guys are trying to ride. Guess you do what you can for entertainment out here in the boonies. Swordplay, spells, and gunfire ring through the clearing; a lively battle for the books. Again, I quietly thank the mage who enchanted my blade; the elegant blade slides into a foe and transforms into a rabid badger with a toothache. REAL happy to be on the handle end of this equipment. A hard strike ends the LT, who turns to smoke(?) and floats down the road. Vex, HUGER, and others pursue while we finish off the riff-raff and examine the site. The captain doesn't recognize the attackers, but all the stuff on the road is from the fort; some of it is his personal gear. Others return with trophies and a story of finding a casket under an old shack and ending the Vampire just getting back to it.

How is it we keep ending up in these places forsaken by Good and beset by all manner of Evil? And if it isn't too much trouble, could someone put Ghost Touch on my boot so I can plant it somewhere sensitive in a certain coach-driving spirit?

Just when I thought things were getting back to normal......

Headed to Sandpoint for some R+R when HUGE stops and starts talking to a rock(blink, blink blink). Fearing a relapse, turned to Nina who could only shrug and say she was pretty sure there was "something" there. Eventually, a ghostly form appeared, not one of the mumbling undead we had encountered earlier. Says he has known HUGE through many lifetimes, and we are always with him, but always different. The way he looks at Vex makes me think even the ghost is having a hard time buying this. Believe he spent way too much time sampling exotic flora before he shuffled off his mortal coil.

The spirit named each of us, and called us by other names that were "known", but hadn't heard before. Told HUGE we needed to travel with him to stop a prophesy of evil, and as it was a great distance, he had a magic coach to carry us there. Now, I am not a qualified healer, but I'm thinking there's still alot of venom running through my system because this is sounding plausible. Nina takes me aside to say, while this story seems to be a whopper, if we stay together as a group, we always work through things. It's good to have someone who keeps that glass full to the top. So who's up for a road trip?

Most of us settle into the coach as Macer takes one of the riding horses, guess he's trying to get his saddle butt back.
the spirit spins an elaborate tale of dragon, boomtown, and prophecy. The mode of travel makes it difficult to remember all the details, Nina spoke of overlapping planes and other oddities. Believe we slept a good bit of the way; others mentioned it, but I don't remember. Arrive at a forest clearing a few(?) days later, but those who know the lands say we are just south of the World Wound, a journey of months. Don't understand the mechanics, but it sure beats walking. Gather our gear and head down to the bustling town of Fort Donner.

Seems more like a plague town. The few people we see run inside and slam doors as we pass, must figure we are the Foretold. Some witch is spreading stories of a group of adventurers who will come to help, but end up dooming the town. Now first, you can't swing a dead cat without hitting a group of adventurers. And second, I figure she's padding her percentages by helping things happen the way she says. Not kind of me, but I figure it's a good place to start. We secure rooms at a decent inn run by a relative newcomer who confirms some of the things we've heard, then scatter to see what can be stirred up. Head to the general store, but it's shuttered and locked. much banging finally brings the owner, a half-elf who says she has nothing to sell. Pointing out the packed shelves, she relents and opens for business. A great deal of talking is needed before she speaks of the problems, saying we should talk to a rancher who lives outside of town. Thank the lady for her help and depart to find the rest, before swanning off into the wilderness. As if on cue, spot Lugh at full speed, tightening his armor. Not wanting to miss a fight, we follow his lead. He rushes into an herbalist's, and I notice others arriving from different directions. Maybe we have been together a long time, little scary if you think about it. Down a hall to a blank wall; Nina says illusion, just run through. Trust her in everything, but can't stop the flinch as I barrel into a bloody brawl. Of course, Lugh and HUGE are at the center, flanked by a few usual demons and a succubus(again, can't swing a dead cat.....). Disturbing is seeing Vex standing next to it with all his best stuff around his feet. And he isn't hurting anything. Nina's spells and my blade(note to self: IF we ever get back to Magnimar, get that enchanter a bonus. While it always disliked goblins and such, this blade truly detests demons!) put down the evil and reclaim Vex. Guess this must be part of the prophesy, in cahoots with the witch. The guy bleeding on the floor is apparently captain of the guard, been spooning with the succ. Speaking of blood, somebody should wrap up the big guys; looks like they went twelve rounds with a blade barrier.

Welcome to sunny Fort Donner, leave your spleen at the gate!

Well, made short work of that lot(Bazinga!). Others were picking up a few trinklets, but I hear HUGE and Lugh have gotten into more mischief. Heading that way, pass Nina talking to a stray. Nice size animal, but Damn that is one homely dog; and somebody dyed it green. Fashion comes and goes, but this is no way to treat an animal, no matter how it looks. Not that I would say anything out loud, no idea how attached she is to it. I pass by, pat it on the head, and try to find it a treat.

Moving down the corridor, pass a chamber and almost loose my lunch. This is the Countess' party and she can do what she wants in her home, but this seems over the line. The scaly old woman is stretched on a chaise wearing a tight dress and a come-hither look; no one can pull off that shade of blue(it would clash with Nina's eyes). Unable to suppress a shudder, continue towards the ruckus in the rear of the manor. Nina catches up, she needs my assistance on more important matters. Have to stop in that chamber for some tools(don't make eye contact!) and back to the dog. Someone has put a ridiculous iron collar on it that requires a bit of effort to remove. Luckily, it's busy with a large snack Nina found for it(don't say anything; can hardly look at it, much less keep it) and we send it on it's way.

The party is winding down and it is time to go. Vex is talking with the Countess(must control stomach) while others clear more debris. In all this, a number of children have turned up. Who would be depraved enough to bring kids to this debacle? Gather up and head out, finally reaching some fresher air. Continue on through the woods(?) and discover a lost girl. Tells a story of death and fire, but am distracted by a large dog(at least it's not green) trying to devour Atz. It's put down and Atz is attended(where's the girl?), so we continue to the children's homes.
we arrive, many tearful reunions, and I can finally put my head down for a bit of rest........

.......throwing up again, keeping a sharp eye out for any important things that may need to be put back in. Nina holds a cool cloth to my pounding head(bless her!) as HUGE continues to chant and someone remarks that I look pretty good for a corpse. This goes on for some time(when the heck did I eat corn?) as the group fills me in on the last few days of slaughtering bolds, rescuing kids, freeing a dragon(quick look around, don't see it), and killing a werewolf. The rescued halfling spoke of things they encountered, and we are going to stop any threat to the logging camp. Standing quickly(whoa; while five Ninas is an intriguing thought, I feel much better when they all blend back into One), I get my three left feet under control and head back to the ruins. Find two goblinoids arguing over a corpse, and spot a third skulking nearby. They are put down quickly, will have to find their camp later to contain any wolfy outbreaks. First, a few days of down-time will probably be a good thing. Still afraid to look in a mirror, the only thing I have left to throw up are my feet. Ah, the glamorous life of an Adventurer; wouldn't miss it for a wooden shekel!

The Countess' party is in full swing as we arrive. Nina and I stop for a quick nip just inside, quite bolstering. Spot Macer ahead, seems to be having some trouble. Going on about being blinded, but I see the real problem. The swollen eyes give him away, he's plastered. I say, man; use a bit of decorum. Just arrived and already blotto, not the way to leave a good impression. We help him along the halls, treacherous footing here. Where are the servants? Something really should be done. Nina stoically remains with our besotted friend as I race ahead to secure the best spot to see and be seen. Entering, I see it's becoming one of "those" parties. Everyone is rushing around, things are flying through the air, and HUGE is positively Gigantic; what do they feed that boy? Dive in to help contain the madness.

The seas are really coming up now, a true gale must be moving in. The deck is awash, and it's hard to keep footing with all this debris. Boarders continue to vault the rails, their numbers seem endless. Many obstacles on deck, must have a word with the quartermaster about cargo stowage. Doesn't he realize the danger of all this weight so high above keel? You there, lash that yardarm before we're all swept overboard! Tried a quick musket shot, but a sudden wave sent it wide. Fearing friendly casualties, I switch back to the blade. Clouds of enemy missiles are everywhere, they have no concern for their own. Damn, that was a gooey one; the day feels like elderberries.

The day is endless, as if we have been at this forever. I ache all over and am having a bit of trouble focusing, time to pull myself together. Spot Nina nearby, wondering where she's been when I get THE LOOK. No idea what I've done this time, it's like I'm supposed to be psychic. If I was psychic, I'd be rich; much more fun, much less work. The others finish clearing away the party detritus as I stand inspection. Nina appears impeccable as always while I seem to have fallen down several stairwells onto some ballistas, definitely one of those parties. Others seem the worse for wear, but we continue on in search of the after party. Enter a room with a tiny guy sitting on/in a giant bug. He starts waving and yammering and weapons are drawn, is this any way to treat guests? Explanations will be required after we deal with these ruffians!

Decision made, look for best route forward. Passage past the forge is a narrow crack, only fit for the bolds, so backtrack to the well. I undo my earlier work while others figure out methods and order of descent. In the end, most just leap the low wall and trust to fate. HUGE chooses to take the cauldron, not being a fan of "just let go!". It's a bit father down than expected, but the new boots perform as advertised. More dwarven work with rough-hewn tunnels leading out. Two sabre-tooth frogs(?) with bold riders appear spitting and swinging. Pistol and spell fire ring out and we move in with cold iron. Making good progress against the oddities when a horde of the runts pour out of an ignored doorway behind us. A hail of small missiles perforate the group as I notice the dungeon has become quite tangy, definitely yellow. Felu and Sam knocked down the flankers and Nina trapped the rest with a web spell. HUGE arrived in his cauldron, decided this had no honor, and left us to clean up with spell, fist and sword. He rushed off to find the captives, but just ran into more bolds. The group caught up piecemeal as the first bunch was whittled down(the little guys sure are fast). Arriving at the fight, discover a gargoyle had joined in. Surround it and soon bring it down with our lovely, enchanted weapons; not falling for that DR thing again, might be a little slow, but can figure things out.

No sooner than these are sorted out, the big nut goes RUNNOFT. Does pretty good for someone who can't see for squat. Just a minor point; if I take off without permission, it's stupid and risks the safety of the group. When others do the same thing, it's heroic and a brilliant tactical move. Am going to have a lengthy talk with the little lights around my head about this injustice. Group streams after, arriving at a large, slimy chamber containing two more sabretoads. One of the riders is still in the fight, the other had a close encounter with the roof. They fall quickly after a bit more damage, group starts carefully crossing the slime. A narrow passage leads back toward the well room, I decide to check it for runts or stray kids. My luck, find a bunch of bolds and their damned darts; they definitely sound tabasco when they hit. They had an ambush set for the other direction, but recovered well and it was a lively scrape. More piled in for a chance to squash the bugs and eventually realigned the mizzen. HUGE and Sam(?) charged heroically on, and from the happy bellows, can only assume HUGE found another fight. Start prying each other out of this closet, I stop for a quick potion. Things are getting slippery, keep dropping the stupid sunrod(got to be that spell Sam keeps casting). Nina's calling, sounds concerned; must be that I haven't written my aunt in some time. Must be sure to do that right after Elevensies.

Listened at the benches as the slaves explained what they knew. To the NE, a group was plotting to break away before the "king" got them all killed by sacrificing pinkskins. Couldn't make out the noise from NW, but to the SW were children's cries and angry cobolds. The short route on the map went through rooms and halls we had not cleared, so decided to loop back the way we came to reach them. Turning into the last hall, saw an armored dwarf ahead. HUGE charged into it, but seemed to slow as he attacked. Macer was next, but also came up short along side HUGE. The three were eerily still though I couldn't find a way in. Nina shouted and sent a pair of fiery beams above them that sent ripples(?) through the air. A tearing noise and a huge wave of thick fluid washed down the hall past us, searing flesh like acid. Empty armor that had appeared to be a dwarf crashed to the floor and we waded on to the dining hall. Groups of cobolds had some of the kids backed into a corner as we moved in, me swinging wildly at shadows and Nina felling many with sheets of fire. Lugh, HUGE, and Macer mowed in as Vex dodged among them. They drove the mob back to the opposite hall and we moved to assist the captives. There were three kids and a halfling, said others got separated and must be found. The fight ended, leaving a half dozen led by a blue-scaled one who offered to help; must be the one who talked of leaving. Not sure what all was said, but they were told to leave and not return to this area. As the acid still burns, HUGE summoned up large amounts of water to remove it. He started with Nina, soaking her from head to toe. As it was only on her legs, I suspect ulterior motives. Lugh joined in and all were soon damp, but no longer burning.

Gathered the youngsters and got more of the story. They had been on an adventure in the woods when the cobolds took them. It struck me that I was looking at our own group all those years back. Their "leader", a half-elf girl named Kimmi, has a familiar air about her. Will need to keep her on a short leash if we want to get them out in one piece. She says one of them is in this area. Since he wasn't in the cube, must be past the doors north. Found a crypt, Huge moved in to find the missing boy cowering behind an anvil. He said skeletons got him, but it seems he set off some small trap as he explored. Moved east, riding herd while others checked rooms north and east. Quick fight to the north, HUGE returned to guide past the mess left by ghouls. Reached the well room and I disabled it to stop more bolds from joining the party. Leaving the kids in the care of those not appearing in this scene, group moved into a rough-hewn passage filled with smoke and ash. Nina summoned strong winds which allowed us to see the large hound that belched fire among us. As combat started, noise spun me around to find a larger hound(wearing armor?) that also flamed. We attacked(still can't release the safety on this damned sword!) as it savaged Nina. She managed to dodge behind HUGE as he finished it off with minor assistance. I moved to discover how near it had come to taking her from me; there will be a reckoning. Many bandages and potions later, we are ready to carefully continue.

Moved forward toward a dull glow and the sound of a thundering forge. Find what appears to be a dwarf wrapped all in chains hammering at a large anvil. Many lengths of chain hang from it, one of them binds a boy at its' feet. Lugh yells it is undead and using a ritual to take the boys' soul. We attack as it expels a large cloud of ash and fiery embers, filling the room. More combat as Nina brings more wind to reveal the thing split by HUGE's blade, but it has done much damage even as it fell. I try to release the boy, but the chain still holds tight. As others are blinded by the cloud, I take the creature's hammer and attack the chain. It reluctantly parts, but am told to continue, as each broken section releases what appears to be more souls. The creature has performed this many times; I hope now they can join Pharasma's queue and continue on their way. Macer, HUGE, and Vex are still blinded by the embers and we lack the magics to heal them. Talk of returning to the clerics of Sandpoint, but no one feels we can lose a whole day. Looking closer, their sight will come back, but will take several hours. Those affected want to press on, but will be greatly hindered.

Be sure to join our heroes next week; same bat time, same bat channel! Get it? Bats, can't see? (crickets chirping) Wow, tough room tonight. Be sure to try the veal and remember to tip your waitress.

A restful day in Sandpoint. Having delivered Hobart to his niece, and Vex bothering enough people that Hobart was cured and disenfranchised from the lower planar, we seemed to need a new direction. Only HUGE was motivated enough for an early morning boar hunt, the rest reacquainting ourselves with the town and its' people. I understand the need for gathering materials that become the excellent meals served at the Dragon, but fail to see the recreational appeal. We were rewarded for the wait when he returned later in the afternoon with a nice specimen of boar and a whopper of a tale. Went on at length about a drunken giant, dead ogres, a romantic tryst, and a child's shoe. The shoe he could produce. Inquiries were made of the sheriff(apparently he has the job because no one else wants it) and the Scarnetti family who are more than happy to have someone else take care of things. Finished with an evening of fine food and company.

Next morning, an early start with the usual grumbling. Traveled to the Tickwood(really? need to work on these names, tourism is an issue) and followed the large, blundering trail. Walked into some spiky, vine-thing that HUGE swears wasn't there yesterday. Most painfully dodged clear while Sam decided to wrestle it, something he's sure to leave to Oona in the future. HUGE stood and hacked it pulp, and a quick break was taken to bind up before continuing. HUGE led us through some random destruction that lent some weight to his story before arriving at a ruined entrance. No one has any idea what dwarves would be doing here in the flatlands.

Descended stairs to a carved chamber with a broken obelisk in the center, the top of which was being dragged off by two small creatures. Look kind of like Vex, but smaller; some primitive variant. A dozen more poured in, but were swiftly handled, leaving one captive. He would take us to his king, something about captured pinkskins and sacrifice. Walking trail as the group moves down corridors, passing a headless corpse being chewed by three dire rats. None seemed concerned until large doors crashed shut ahead, splitting the party. Nina used her discretion(and a gout of flame) to end the rat problem while others tried the doors. Picked up a set of boots and a partial journal as muffled sounds of combat came from the stuck doors. Finally, Lugh burst through, saying the cobald had led us into a loadstone trap that released flying, undead creatures that removed heads and controlled the body. Can't prove it, but I know my brothers have to be behind anything that demented. Luckily, no one was taken, but the runt escaped. I was called forward to disable the trap as we lack the usual door opener; guess I get another job title, and another list of equipment needs.

Further along, Lugh opened a chamber with a small creature guarding the skeletal remains of a dwarf, who apparently did himself in using a mechanical triphammer. He left a note carved in obsidian of invasion and failure. Poked around and found a secret door that opened into a hall that led to another secret door that opened into an octahedronal(GM's word) room containing stone benches, a carved table, and a spectral creature like the two we saw in the forest near here. Forgot; Lugh told us to avoid them as they caused a trance-like state, very dangerous. A bit late to avoid, we piled in and the thing was finished. Felu and HUGE heard a bit too much, so we sat them down and searched while they recovered. The table is a map of the complex and the room can be used to listen to many parts of it. Vex is making a copy and I'm waiting for THE TALK about not wandering off and opening things before telling people and getting permission. Exploring has many unwritten rules, not my fault that I can't read ahead.

Survived a busy morning in the markets and returned to meet the others for lunch. Apparently Hobart has been cooped up for a long time and wants to visit his niece in Sandpoint. He seems more animated and I believe he wishes to dispel the image of infirmity. Maybe our barging rudely into quiet corner has motivated things, he wants to make up for neglecting her. It will be a good thing to get him back out into the world and an opportunity to rid him of the condition and presence that try to claim him. Hobart wants to employ us to see him safely to Sandpoint and back in the company of a few of his retainers. He also has started to put together an estimate on the Kaijitsu estate, using his extensive knowledge of his neighbor. A few details to attend to and we'll leave the day after tomorrow; is it just me, or did these things seem to always involve much screaming and dismemberment in the past?

Having already bought almost everything in town, spend the next day and a half in warmth and comfort. Fortified against the rigors of the wilderness, we get an early start on the trip north. Can't shake the feeling of being watched, but our meddling seems to have convinced the opposition to take their plans elsewhere. Second day, we arrive at the inn about midday and find the damage cleared and rebuilding has begun. Talked with the guards and all appears quiet, so push on intending to reach Sandpoint the end of the third day. Another night camping out and a quiet day rolling through the countryside. This is a really nice area when you thin out the goblins and other hooligans.

Delivered Hobart that evening, a good feeling to reconnect people. Having seen to the wagons and horses, retire to the Rusty Dragon for food and rooms. It hasn't been a long time, but this feels like a homecoming. People are glad to see us, and not just because we brought Hobart and the estimate. Having a hard time wrapping my head around this after years of isolation. An excellent evening of stories and entertainment, and as Hobart intends to stay a month, we leave it till morning to make plans.

Guess I slept in, things happen pretty fast if you don't pay attention. At breakfast we learn that Vex took it upon himself to motivate people. He contacted the mayor, who sent him to the church, where the priest sent him back to the Dragon. Seems the person qualified for this kind of thing is a certain, questionable half-elf(still under suspicion from the pajama party) likely to be found here. Don't these people have homes? Turns out he's rather powerful and removed both the disease and unnamed parasite in short order(blink, blink blink) while we would undoubtedly require explosions and wanton mayhem. Note to self; don't poke the flamboyant badger, hands are very useful and shouldn't be bitten off.

Am falling way behind the curve here, at this rate I won't even be a footnote to an exciting tale. Nina assures me that I'll be fine, and not to go dashing off into something stupid. She has a better head for these things, but going against nature is truly asking a great deal.

Woke to an early sun through the window, a wonderful sight after the darkness of the night before. Had a bit to eat and enjoyed the warmth before meeting up to divvy our haul. I will admit to some skill on their part, but the other side has Really Good equipment. Working with several contacts, we find ourselves filthy rich. Had no idea there was this kind of coin to be made as the group engages shopping mode and scatters into the city. The feeling lasts about an hour as I see to enchanting blades and longarm and finding a couple useful items; who knew they make magic sights for firearms? Nina settled on a lovely bit of jewelry that seems to go with everything.

Some of this will take a few days, so we have time to rest and I can deal with unresolved issues. While Father and my siblings can each burn in their individual hells, I owe Mother so much and feel very low for not seeing her sooner. I send word through Odo to meet at her friend's home the following afternoon, wanting to avoid the drama. Nina will be coming along as Mother showed her nothing but kindness, and it would be rude to avoid her. Was nervous entering, but as usual, was just shown to be a fool for delaying a meeting. Mother's smile and warmth were matched by Nina, all was right with the world. This is how things are supposed to be, at least in the stories. We sat and talked of travels and people, going into the evening. I arranged for food to be brought in, and Margrete joined us, the talk soon turning to the Craft. They went on at length about spells, methods, things I vaguely remember. Most went over my head like a hawk riding mountain thermals, but was happy to see the excitement and closeness. In the early hours we paused, but returned before noon to continue. Made myself useful while important matters were discussed well into the night. While I can help with pointers on bladework, this will excel her spellcraft.

Took the next day off to rest(and study), our goods should be ready in the morning and HUGE arranged a meeting with Deverin after lunch. Picked up toys and gathered to travel uptown. Arrived at the Deverin homestead, kind of place you need a horse and buggy just to get to the privy. Took a while to convince the staff that our large, armed group was here to meet their boss, not plunder the family silver. Eventually we met Hobart, a very nice guy who seems world-weary. Nina says there is a presence about him, and Felu talks of something riding or using him. Talked at length about Amiko's request, his niece's concern for him; he just seemed happy to have more people around. He spoke of the poor state of the Kaijitsu estate(a stray "dog" bit him some time back) but asked us not to disturb Fumiko at his reading. Amiko's father passed some years back, but his spirit still frequents the library. Since we would be working on his friend's estate, Hobart asked if any of us would like to stay here as his guest. Nearly doubled over from a well-placed elbow, I gratefully accepted his offer. We were shown our "room" by "our" servants, words fail me. Am very sure that I will NOT get Nina out of this house; indoor plumbing and an elevator beat wet canvas and bug bites every time.

Got dressed up for dinner with Deverin. He sets an amazing table, but just couldn't give it my full attention. Talked of plans and possibilities, he retired early(need to separate that thing without harming Hobart) giving us run of his home. The group moved to our "room" and settled in to watch the Kaijitsu estate. HUGE started talking about a new ability, says he can change form. Right. Got armored up and said he could scout the grounds alone, then he "turned" into an owl(blink, blink blink). Flew out the window and returned later to perch on the back of a chair. Hours later, he became HUGE again and crashed to the floor. Said he saw werewolves(takes one to know one?) building traps by the house. Seems everything's tougher in Magnimar, even the squatters. Quick talk about shape-changers, another trip to the markets. Going to have to line up a couple dozen dragons to loot, this lifestyle is getting ridiculous.

Next morning, buying silver weapons and alchemical goodies. "Passed" a seamstress with some lovely outfits that(gasp) fit perfectly. Nina will look wonderful at the victory party after we deal with these latest mutants. Hopefully they carry all their assets on them, in cash.

Arrived just in time to watch the fighter step back, touch the wildly swinging Kollos, and they both disappeared. About then, LUGH also got larger(a guy could start to develop a complex around here, but Vex told me it's not a good idea), and I left the front line to the bigguns. Moved back where I was supposed to be with Nina and waded into the demon on Felu. Our blades kept it busy while MACER pounded it down,but not before it dropped Felu. Then HUGER was taken down, I think by the batwoman, and OONA(just trying to not get stepped on here) pushed into the brawl. We gave potions to the down members and moved to the front to engage the reappearing fighter and Kollos. Usual perfect timing; moved in and started poking the thugs as HUGER regained his footing and split Kollos in twain. Being true to his nature, he promptly exploded. How do these creatures continue to develop and thrive? I mean, if one of them passes in it's sleep, wouldn't most of the family die when the house collapses from the explosion? Beings of great power have way too much time on their hands if they come up with this kind of thing, and a sick sense of humor. In addition to the usual flesh wounds, the blast put HUGER back on the floor and(I later learned) fatally wounded OONA's prone form. Hadn't noticed her dropping, but now made out Atz moving carefully through the fray. Vex continued on Falcon while we worked the fighter, as a second batwoman took up observation from a far corner and Kiara rushed in to shoot Falcon. I was just happy she was still on our side, things were not looking great. Blades flashed, spells flew(Nina's couldn't get past resistance, Not happy), HUGER kept dropping and standing in great sprays of gore. LUGH Held the fighter just as my blade spitted him ear to ear, now that's teamwork. After much carnage, the arrogant Falcon dropped, and attention turned to the winged vermin. They used compulsions and drains as we returned spells and bullets(to little effect). Vex got great damage with his bow(look into this) as the large ones combined to splatter the first flying rat, who by that time just looked like it was trying to find a way out. The second, the boss by it's haughty demeanor, tired of our mental resistance and departed with a few extra wounds for its' trouble. Guess we'll be seeing that one again, didn't seem the type to forget our meddling.

Triage began and I opened the storage locker to prepare Oona for transport. Huge stopped me, carefully picked her up, and followed Lugh to the proper church above. Began going over the slain for useful clues, incriminating evidence, and any loot which was shelved for later. Moved back to the "chapel" to finish our interrupted search and others found a few items and the cultist's slush fund. Went upstairs to find Oona wasn't quite dead yet (thanks, HUGE!) and made our way back to the more civilized parts of town in a much better mood. The group split up to get some rest before dealing with this in the morning. I'm the first to admit to having an easy time physically, but the brain is in a fog and needs a bit of quality time. Still a long way from where I want to be, but think I showed a bit of competence toward the end. Who knows, might actually get the hang of this one day.