View source for Kingmaker:Log:4712

== 4712 ==

==={{Abadius}}===

====KINGDOM TURN 21====

The sewers were created in Olegston, a number of structures were built, and the newly annexed lizardfolk tribe city was added (the Murque Tribe).

'''{{Abadius}} 16th'''

[[Kressle]] argued with [[Tindalos]] regarding the naming of their child. She wasn’t able to convince him of anything, and they reached no conclusion regarding what it ought be named, regardless of gender, though [[Kressle]] was able to involve everyone else in the awkwardness and tried to insist that it was a matter of state.

The brought shamblesap to [[Bokken]], for potions of cure moderate wounds.

'''{{Abadius}} 22th'''

Ezregou the demon spoke to them at length about corruption and made a point of lamenting that only evil things summon demons (and that angels must likewise be dismayed that villains never summon them). It gave them a magic weapon on the theory that just giving them power would corrupt them, and [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] accepted it, much to [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]]’s chagrin and anger. [[Tindalos]] talked her into returning and killing the demon, but as soon as [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] pressed the attack, it teleported away. [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] accused her companions of being idiots.

'''{{Abadius}} 24th'''

They searched for - and found - the demon and explored a hex after killing it.

'''{{Abadius}} 27th'''

The party dealt with a group of Ettins by intimidating them into leaving and, subsequently, bribing them into going to the hills in the northwest. [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] was disappointed and convinced that she would have to deal with this issue later.

The party returned to Castle Darksky to purchase trail rations and stay the night, mostly because they were all out of trail rations and food is difficult to come by in the wild this late in winter.

'''{{Abadius}} 28th'''

The party explored.

'''{{Abadius}} 30th'''

The party encountered a half-black-dragon, half-basilisk (a creature commonly known as a Dracolisk), who they slew after learning that it had brothers. Unfortunately, they weren’t able to locate its brothers. They decapitated the creature and collected its remains (including and especially its blood) which they dumped in their portable hole.

The party tried to track it back to its brothers, but weren’t able to find them.

'''{{Abadius}} 31st'''

The PCs explored along the border of Pitax. They spotted what they presumed to be a border outpost, but did not approach.

==={{Calistril}}===

'''{{Calistril}} 2nd'''

The party found hot springs and lazed about there. They moved on, and determined that in and around the area of the hot springs there are occasional blasts of steam and geysers of scalding water, but they weren't exposed directly to any such thing.

'''{{Calistril}} 3rd'''

The party encountered and defeated a pair of Aurumvoraxes, killing one and driving off the other. They found a considerable (but not remarkably singificant) cache of gold inside the slain creature's stomach. They then returned to Castle Darksky to take a kingdom turn.

====KINGDOM TURN 21====

The party constructed a Luxury Shop and Mill in the Murque Tribe’s Headquarters. The Event phase has not yet occurred.

'''{{Calistril}} 9th'''

The party learned that there had been increased adventurer activity with the spring thaws. Most pressingly, a half-orc paladin named Travaar (truh-VAHR), a half-orcish paladin was collecting debts throughout the Stolen Lands. His lawful pursuits were grating on the people of the chaotic River Kingdoms.

[[Grigori]] recommended that the paladin be allowed to continue collecting debts, arguing, in part, that the PCs don't want to be the ones to stop a paladin enacting his holy duty; Quintessa insisted that he should not be allowed to do this, as collecting these debts violated the spirit if not the letter of the River Freedoms and, if Easthaven were to make a policy of punishing people for their former lives, she and countless other criminals in the Stolen Lands would be liable for ill-earned debts and the sins of their former lives.

The party decided the issue of citizenship had been left nebulous long enough and scheduled a census for the beginning of spring; they planned to require a registration for citizenship for protection from debts (and other extradition) after two years.

In any case, they decided that the best approach would be to meet with Travaar in person and summoned him to court.

'''{{Calistril}} 13th'''

Travaar answered their summon. The paladin stated that the Stolen Lands were not [[Restov]]'s to give and that they would be Brevan once more. He eventually conceded that he would follow the laws set forth before him, and [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] offered him 100gp toward collecting the debts. The paladin stated he had over 40 debts to collect, and thus would owe additional money (which he, as [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] pointed out, would have to pay out of his own pocket).

Travaar stated that he was solving small injustices, as he had been accused (and could not rebut the accusation) of being a glory seeker, and thus sought to right the pettiest wrongs (even collecting debts for the financially solvent).

Quintessa, who had not been present at the beginning, was confused that a paladin would seek un-glory and suggested that he might be seeking to glorify himself in his inglorious undertakings. [[Tindalos]] suggested that they ought test to him to determine if he would eschew a more glorious task in favor of a less glorious one even when the more glorious task was also more pressing, and suggested that they should offer to pay off the debt of one of the debtors in order to put him in harm’s way to entice the paladin to slay a dragon or somesuch, but the party eventually decided against that, based on the fact that they had more important matters to attend.

The party gave the dracolsik corpse to [[Bokken]]. He was pleased and stated he could make potions of stone to flesh (which [[Tindalos]] initially questioned until [[Bokken]] explained their function to him). He also expressed dismay that the party assumed that making his "crazy evil brother" not crazy would make him not evil (he likened this to being hungry and tired and stated that he eats in his sleep frequently).

'''{{Calistril}} 17th'''

A meteor shower, a celestial event known as the Tears of Curchanus, was seen visibly over the Stolen Lands. Allegedly connected to the god Curchanus’ death (recorded over a millennium prior), this is considered an omen of the enmity between man and beast that resulted from Lamashtu’s slaying of the deity and stealing his dominion. The people were comforted by the knowledge that the PCs had previously defended them from a rampaging owlbear, and thus did not grow in unrest from this omen.

'''{{Calistril}} 18th'''

The party met Sevig Mordenkain at the Murque tribe's border. The kingdom of Mordenheim stated that they had a platinum mine and would like to recommend minting currency in that coin. 

'''{{Calistril}} 19th'''

The party agreed to a trade agreement. Yelina asked the party to open trade with Numeria so she could acquire Numerian artifacts from the Technic League. She also implied, but did not state, that she understood the purpose of the Mivon-[[Restov]] trade route and stated that she wanted in. She purchased the drill from the party.

'''{{Calistril}} 20th'''

The party gathered a group of surveyors consisting primarily of kobolds to check the mine.

Ollix Kaddar of Kadria shipped a portrait of himself with a long-winded letter of well-wishes in commemoration of [[Tindalos]]' upcoming child.

'''{{Calistril}} 22nd'''

The surveyors found that the mine was almost certainly a starmetal mine that was mined into an aquifer and would need to be drained and cleared before it could be mined. It was also rich in coal. It was, however, suggested that Numeria would be upset.

'''{{Calistril}} 23rd'''

The party returned to Castle Darksky. The party rallied and discussed baby names with [[Kressle]] who settled upon Victor or Victoria.

'''{{Calistril}} 26th'''

The party faced a pride of chimera, of which they slew one, captured another and routed the third. They found a priestess of Gyronna who was displeased by their ban on priestesses of Gyronna within Easthaven and stated that they had incurred the goddesses' disfavor. She was, however, wholly unwilling to engage them in combat or threaten them in any way, and admitted that she was a prisoner of the chimera, who were afraid to harm her because of he ties to the Hag Queen. She left.

The party eventually agreed to offer the remaining chimera atonement, but it was too stupid to understand and eventually agreed not to eat them or anyone like them, as [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] came to the conclusion that mercy is the first step on the path to redemption.

'''{{Calistril}} 31st'''
	
The party continued exploring and found not only a number of steam geysers but also some rolling hills with abandoned vineyards left behind by the clerics of Cayden Cailien. There was nothing worth salvaging.

==={{Pharast}}===

====KINGDOM TURN 22====

The kingdom constructed a Magic Shop, which left them thoroughly overjoyed with the massive influx of powerful items. These they sold to [[Restov]] for a large amount of money.

'''{{Pharast}} 5th'''

Marin, the female halfling midwife, cared well for mother and child, and the baby, Victor was born - a gaunt child with elongated features - too-long fingers, elbows that jut, legs and knees that would go over the head if hugged to chest (and might be splayed out too far to be hugged directly to chest). His faceis guant, gray and fishlike, also enlongated. A dredlock-like tangle of fleshy tendrils with short stubbly spider-like cilia for "hair". The midwife was shocked, but [[Kressle]] embraced the child with joy. The stool and umbilicus were cut. [[Tindalos]] stated that he was the father - for certain.

"Victor doesn't look like other babies because... he's a quarter elven. And his father is a very particular sort of elf."

[[Tindalos]] recommended that the next ruler of Easthaven shall be appointed by the joint leadership, and will not necessarily be the direct bloodline descendant of the current rulers of Easthaven. He made this declaration because of the his child's birth, but not because of the nature thereof. They held off on the declaration, though, to prevent [[Kressle]] from associating it.

They consulted the [[Old Beldame]], [[Grigori]], Quintessa Maray and Imekus Stroon, who all had opinions that moved them toward wanted to preserve their kingdom's frank relationship with its people.

'''{{Pharast}} 7th - 10th'''

* Pitax sent a limner to paint mother and child in a large portrait (6000gp).
* Touvette sent a small child-sized crown in Taldan style (400gp).
* Urigen sent a flask of moonlight (20gp).
* Mivon sends a collection of practical baby toys, including a rat figure on wheels (traditional depiction of Hanspur) made of darkwood (10gp).
* Hymbria sends a child-sized masterwork harp (310gp).
* Queen Sovella (exiled queen of Artume) sent a red silk ribbon, a token against witches (2gp).
* Mordenheim minted a commemorative coin valued at (10gp).

[[Kressle]] penned thank yous while the party traveled to Varnhold, then [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] and Quintessa made contact with the Nomen tribe to speak with Agria. Agria explained that her daughter was adventuring and, after learning of Victor's birth, expressed the desire to give them a gift, but would need time and an opportunity to prepare one.

'''{{Pharast}} 11th - 13th'''

They travel to search the area, and avoid a landslide.

'''{{Pharast}} 14th - 15th'''

Demet, the blind beggar, met with them and mentioned that Kob Moleg lay to the northwest. [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] noticed that he was under the effects of a weak transmutation. They found nothing further of interest.

'''{{Pharast}} 16th - 17th'''

The party discovered wild grapes.

'''{{Pharast}} 18th - 19th'''

The party encountered and fought a Gorgon. They saved its horn and hide.

'''{{Pharast}} 20th - 21st'''

The party spotted a mature red dragon on the horizon and [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]], being crazy, hailed it. The dragon came down and, after deciding that they were all circus performers, demanded they entertain her. When [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] was able to perform a sufficiently amusing song, the dragon revealed a female humanoid form with fiery red hair, embraced and kissed him, and said she would be his lover. [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] was more or less force to write her a ballad and teach her to play it. She then demanded that he surrender to her his mbira, and he said that it was precious to him and asked then how he would sing her praises without it. "Mournfully" was her reply. In the meantime, [[Tindalos]] sent messages to Agela to ask for her assistance and, after revealing his location, was informed it would take her several hours to get there.

The dragon, Vegadarathyl, demanded a ransom for [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]], and was sorely disappointed when the offerings were not to her expectations. She seemed to universally disdain them until [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] offered his shoes and kept her entertained with stories of the trophies until she decided that he had come "as close as [he] ever [would]" to defeating a red dragon, and offered him a scale, which he refused, and she decided to give him a scar to remember her by. He ''harm''ed her and she took to the air and blasted him with her breath weapon and he with his Cold Blast. Apparently disgusted, she flew off.

About 30 minutes later, a quickling showed up stating that he was Nyrissa's servant and that he was there to scout for invisible creatures, knowing that the dragon would return. Aegela arrived shortly thereafter, and agreed to assist them in protecting themselves. Vegadarathyl attacked and great damage was dealt. In the end, Vegadarathyl was slain and Aegela agreed to finish her off. They buried the remains.

[[Reem Aaron|Reem]] wrote something to commemorate:

Beneath this mound a dragon lain
By other dragon and warriors slain
Let's assume this battle was not in vain
The dragon tis dead, let's keep it this way... ne

It was agreed by all that the last two lines ought probably be removed. They then discussed the dragon's tower. Finally, they said their goodbyes to Aegela, who promised that should they require further assistance, she would come to their aid, though she would be in the Nomen Heights for some time.

'''{{Pharast}} 22nd - 23rd'''

No encounters.

'''{{Pharast}} 24th - 25th'''

The party spotted a wrecked watchtower just across the border of [[Brevoy]]. There, they found the dragon's horde and an orc slave named Loebhaf of the Murragh, who stated that he had been taken as a consort to Vegadarathyl after she defeated his tribe in Numeria. [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] offered him some of the treasure from the horde, and he took a scimitar and a heavy shield. The rest of the treasure was primarily claimed by the party. They invited the orc back with them, and returned to Easthaven.

"Adventurers raid memories," he explained when they discussed diplomacy and dealing with orcs. The orc was frequently confused by their lack of slaves, the improvement of quality of life and the changes to the surrounding kingdoms. He eventually pieced together that their heir would be the champion. 

'''{{Pharast}} 26th'''

====KINGDOM TURN 23====

A better sword was rolled up, and [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] dropped Armag's sword (with [[Reem Aaron|Reem]]'s help) and realized that she was plotting the demise of her allies on behalf of the sword. The party then went through an episode of Hoarders with their equipment.

Quintessa Maray disappeared along with 2 BP worth of treasure. Imeckus Stroon failed to scry upon Quintessa, but was able to determine that Drelev was with a lady friend who paid in River Kingdom coin for passage to the Shackles. Unfortunately, this turned out to be Pavetta Stroon. Imekus Stroon was consulted about Maray and the party concluded that she may have been kidnapped. They agreed that she must be found and Stroon stormed out as quickly as he could to try to locate her more earnestly. Just then, Juniper Stargrove arrived and explained Quintessa Maray is Sylvia Giles a spy from Daggermark, and that the real Quintessa Maray was executed in Galt ~6 years ago (and the records of her demise were mostly destroyed, leaving the revolutionaries searching for her). The party learned that a Pathfinder agent named Kalmar may have warned Giles in the intervening hours after accomplishing her Pathfinder Society missions (which apparently involved falsifying death records in Galt).

==={{Gozran}}===

They built a garrison and jail at Tuskwater, even as they built a Dance Hall among the Sootscales.

'''{{Gozran}} 2nd'''

It's [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]]'s birthday! The party takes the day off! [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] insists that everyone get drunk! They blow [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] is 20 years old! They marveled at the fact that [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] was both the least and most mature even though he's the oldest. They end up celebrating [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]]'s birthday as well.

'''{{Gozran}} 3rd - 5th'''

Traveling to the site of exploration. In the evening the party was attacked by a group of 4 dire bears. They dispatched them and skinned the remains.

'''{{Gozran}} 6th - 7th'''

The party explored the area, noting footprints of mammoths, hill giants and possibly ogres and or trolls.

'''{{Gozran}} 8th - 9th'''

The party encountered a sizable army of mites mounted upon various creepy crawlies. They sent Tekteknibir, herald of Niblegrek to negotiate. He demanded supplies (which they intentionally misinterpreted as "surprise" and frightened them) and eventually clarified that he meant provisions. They promised him wagonloads of provisions to help them, with no intention, of course, of sending such. They eventually left them be and moved on.

'''{{Gozran}} 11th - 12th'''

They explored further and discovered a flowery meadow in which to have a picnic with a number of goblin stones along the ridges. Nothing terrible happened during it.

'''{{Gozran}} 13th - 15th'''

The party explored Mount Branthlend's foothills, where they encountered a (the?) Jabberwock. [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] wasn't certain whether Nyrissa had ''a'' Jabberwock or ''the'' Jabberwock, so they didn't risk confronting the creature.

'''{{Gozran}} 16th - 18th'''

Traveling to new area for exploration.

'''{{Gozran}} 19th'''

The party explored the bogs west of Mordenheim, where they encountered a small group of three marsh giants surrounded by stirges and watching a pair of giant slugs mating. [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]], [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] and [[Tindalos]] had no interest in so much as dealing with them, and ended up hanging back while [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] attempted to talk to them. The giants eerily glared at him and announced that attacking him would be insane. They added that Dagon protects them and that they knew he would eventually come to naught. Eventually [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] was able to hear the creature predict his death at the hands of<br>
"one of Dagon's servants OR<br>
one the serves him OR<br>
one that he serves OR<br>
a friend who betrayed or will betray him OR<br>
a god who is not a god but is."

The creatures then left. The rest of the party was generally glad that this was a nonviolent encounter.

'''{{Gozran}} 20th'''

[[Tindalos]] was able to summon a chariot that pulled them through the swamps. They explored and found nothing.

'''{{Gozran}} 21st'''

The party was ambushed by a dragon, which isolated [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] and wounded her badly before the party overcame it and defeated it. They then put the shackles of cooperation on it. The dragon (Ilkhoth) was uncooperative, but for obvious reasons couldn't try to escape. He was aware that the party intended to kill him one way or another and weren't going to let him live regardless of his cooperation. They eventually offered the dragon redemption, which it accepted, and it told them that Ilthuliak was father to a great many dragons, but not him, and that Ilthuliak was a Great Wyrn, and a fearsome creature.

'''{{Gozran}} 22nd'''

They explored an nearby area and found peat bogs.

'''{{Gozran}} 22nd - 23rd'''

They explored another nearby hex and came across a people-sized insect skimming across the water's surface. [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] to communicate with it in Aquan. Eventually, they determined that the cultural barrier was greater than the language barrier and off it went. Everyone was perfectly pleased.

'''{{Gozran}} 24th'''

The party encountered an owlbear outside the fringe of their territory. After killing it and engaging in much ado over its body (including, inexplicably, resurrecting it), [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] left with her feelings hurt and they all wandered back to the Kingdom.

====A River Kingdoms Folk Tale====

A group of dragonslayers of no small renown were traveling day when, perchance, they came upon a lone owlbear foraging among the bushes. Knowing the beast was no match for them, they set about dealing with it. The first said, "I shall use magic to beguile it and obtain a servant!" the second said, "This creature is beneath our notice. We ought leave it be." The third declared, "I shall slay it, and wear its fur as a cloak." The fourth said, "I shall defeat it and cow the creature into servitude." None discussed their plan with the others and, having slain the creature gruesomely, expending many spells and much effort and ruining the hide, each left, bitterly convinced that their plan would have worked. They were each one of them right.

====KINGDOM TURN 24====

Claimed and settled Whiterose. Caeldwyn found a mighty Tome of Leadership and Influence. In return, he asked for a better enchanted bow. 

==={{Desnus}}===

'''{{Desnus}} 4th'''

The party discussed the possibility of capturing a roc, mostly as a way of avoiding killing the roc. They eventually agreed to charm and convince the roc to leave their people alone. They traveled up Talon Peak to confront the roc.

'''{{Desnus}} 5th-7th'''

They waited until the roc returned, suffering from minor altitude sickness. They ended up negotiating awkwardly with the roc and determining that it probably isn't a threat to the kingdom. They then teleported back to Varnhold.

'''{{Desnus}} 8th-19th'''

The party, now sharing a border with Pitax, decided they needed to meet with [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]. They sent a messenger to arrange a meeting. "In our earlier correspondence with you, you recommended that we expand our kingdom in such a way that your borders and our borders touch in order to facilitate a meeting between our leaderships... we would like to arrange a meeting should this interest you." [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] discussed this with [[Grigori]], and eventually decided that a masterwork mbira would be an appropriate gift. [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]] agreed to meet with them three days hence, and they agreed further.

'''{{Desnus}} 20th'''

They met with [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]], as well as a number of his entourage (including Villamor Koth and Baer, [[Reem Aaron|Reem]]'s colleague from his orphanage. They were able to make a number of determinations: [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]] seems to be aware of many things about the party, claimed to know [[Tindalos]]' father Narheim and alluded to knowing every aspect of [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]]'s history. He made observations regarding the characters and eventually made [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] and Baer shake hands.

'''{{Desnus}} 21st-28th'''

====KINGDOM TURN 25====

The party claimed a number of hexes and created farms and roads. They were able to prevent the spread of Pesh through their kingdom.

Scribe Jamila Hatnapshi from Osirion arrived with her two halfling servants to advise [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] that he would not need to deliver his prophecy to the grand temple of Pharasma in Osirion as various other priests of Pharasma had come to the Grand Temple of Pharasma with the same prophecy, and it was believed that [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] would likewise bear the same message. She accepted a copy of his prophecy, and left.

They asked Juniper Stargrove for information on the participants in the Rushlight Tournament, the rulers of the River Kingdoms and, most importantly, the host of the tournament. She advised that [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]] almost certainly had established a carefully constructed facade meant to deceive and bewilder. She also explained how [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]] manipulates the River Freedoms to benefit him at the expense of his people. They agreed to give her Vordakai's spellbook as payment in return for a Pathfinder expedition to Pitax (she explained that as a Venture Lieutenant, she is permitted to organize expeditions).

'''{{Desnus}} 29th'''

===Sarenith===

'''{{Sarenith}} 3rd'''

[[Tindalos]] trained with a lance and they held a tournament in Easthaven to determine who should go to the Rushlight tournament. They spend BP to create prizes, and won all the events, demonstrating that they were best (with runners up [[Taj Dakarawa]] in woodcutting, barmaid Lily Teskerton in boasting, and Caeldwyn in archery). A good time was had by all.

'''{{Sarenith}} 4th - 5th'''

The party teleported to explored the area immediately surrounding Vordakai's tomb. They discovered a small island with tiny ambulatory venus flytraps, of the which they captures a few for their menagerie. They also found some treasure. They then searched underwater. They determined that the figure on the coin is Count Ranlac, but could not determine anything else specific.

'''{{Sarenith}} 6th - 8th'''

The party explored and found a terrified manticore (who seemed aware that they were more powerful than them) and moved on without further confrontation after initially noticing them. 

'''{{Sarenith}} 9th - 11th'''

The parted explored the mountains near Vordakai's Tomb, where they spotted, but did not encounter a dragon. They were unable to track it, but [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] believed that it was a metallic dragon.

'''{{Sarenith}} 12th - 13th'''

The party moved on to a tributary, and explored. As they camped, they encountered a group of nymphs and faerie dragons engaged in revelry on the other side of the hill, eventually deciding to move on before making camp. They made camp some distance away.

'''{{Sarenith}} 14th'''

The party teleported to Whiterose, where they were given the shawl to return to Evindra. Evindra revealed that reuniting Nyrissa with her love ''Briar'' would almost certainly kill or destroy her utterly, so great would be her grief at the loss of Count Ranlac. She insisted that Ranlac's crime was unrelated to Nyrissa's love, but that they shared True Love. Evindra explained that driving the sword through Nyrissa's heart (without her touching the hilt) would destroy both. She further explained that if Nyrissa is, in fact, a lock that hold Count Ranlac in place (as the PC's speculated) then killing her may release him, and he could very well come to wreak havoc.

([[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] speculated that one of the Eldest set up Count Ranlac due to unrequited love for Nyrissa; it was also pointed out the Nyrissa's love MUST HAVE been severed before Ranlac was banished or she would have succumbed to her grief at his punishment).

They also decided that Nyrissa MUST be worth something to the Eldest, or they would have simply destroyed her (as they simply had no reason NOT to). [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] believes that if she was reunited with her love that she would free Count Ranlac, but in general it is just agreed that she must be or have something to them. Upon learning that the sword is, at its weakest, a ''+4 blade'' and its strongest a ''+5 intelligent vorpal blade''. [[Tindalos]] speculated that [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]] might be re-purposing the weapon into a power source by feeding it fey energy.

[[Tindalos]] proposed that [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]] is using ''Briar'' to power something great, and that in telling the blade that Count Ranlac has been defeated to break it with grief, ideally defeating [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]. [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] expressed concern that ''Briar'' may demand [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]] reunite it with [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]. It was suggested he might not even KNOW what ''Briar'' can do, but that would be a pretty significant blind spot in his knowledge (although a lot of things about [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]] are fairly random).

[[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] noted that the year [[Castruccio Irovetti]] recovered ''Briar'' was also the year that Skywatch closed its gates and the noble scions of [[Brevoy]]'s House Rogarvia all disappeared (4699 A.R.).

==== The Pathfinder Expedition ====

As promised, Juniper Stargrove organized an expedition to the city of Pitax, where the agents of the society were sent on a fact finding mission. Their goals were to make determinations, if possible regarding [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]'s claims that he had successfully completed the Test of Starstone (dubious, given that he was all but unheard of in Absalom). Furthermore, if possible, the Society members were to try to make determinations regarding [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]'s true identity, as he claims origin in Numeria, but there is no history of his ever existing there. Agents were told that the purposes was twofold - first, the agents were gathering information that was of genuine interest to the society, but, furthermore, they would also be acquiring the spellbook of the Lich Vordakai, which was believed not only to be a repository of spells, but to contain a hidden magic cypher of great interest to the Society.

The members chosen were Alderick, a gnomish urban ranger, Angelie, an elven storm sorceress, Kurzdirk, a half-orc former tribal shaman wizard, and Walton Hammerfall, a half-elven adventuring blacksmith.

Juniper stated that the Society's only real lead regarding [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]'s identity was a memoir that was allegedly locked away in the library in his Palace, allegedly awaiting some future publication. Concern was expressed, primarily by Angelie, regarding whether having the book stolen might be [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]'s plan to give some legitimacy to the likely false memoir, and Juniper explained that even if this was so, it would likely reveal a great many things about him and, quite possibly, allow them to find a crack in his story to exploit. At the very least, it would give them a way of bargaining with Easthaven over the matter.

Finally, it was explained that while Easthaven is favorable to the Society at this time, it is most likely best not to cause undue damage or nuisance in Pitax, as, should the two nations go to war, the Society sincerely wants all possible outcomes to be, at worst, neutral.

The party set out for Pitax by way of a barge the Society chartered from smuggler Pyotr Imerick. He explained that they should be wary of the wharfmaster, Joravan Pyath, a cantankerous dwarf with a pet black bear. They met Pyath at the wharf, where he accepted a bribe and expressed suspicion regarding Kurzdirk's seafaring skills.

The party made their way to the tavern where they were intended to meet their contact, a talkative fellow named Jex who went by the nickname "the Snitch." Jex was pleased to accept his reward and offer them a map indicating where their contact was, but it became clear that he was drawing intentional attention to them. Sensing an ambush, they caught Jex and took control, killing four thugs sent to cause them trouble and chasing off a bard that Jex was working with. After they bribed the tavern keeper (and everyone else) with drinks and platinum, they interrogated Jex, who admitted that he had set them up, explained that the map was authentic, but that he had already sold out their contact, presuming that they might survive the initial ambush. He then pointed out that they should leave him alive because he has a vested interest (as do they) in preventing his elven bard connection from reporting this incident to the authorities, and had a much better chance of finding her sooner than they (especially if they wanted to ensure that their contact survived). They smashed his face, but ultimately let him go.

They made their way to the cheese shop, The Turning Wheel, and met with Ingras Quill, their contact. They had time to explain that an ambush was suspected before two Pitax Wardens and a dark cloaked figure approached. They had a difficult fight against the Wardens, but were able to finish them all off (and dropped a great deal of hot wax from the cheese shop onto the cloaked figure, who exploded upon death). Ingras dealt with the bodies, putting them in wax barrels. She told them she could get them into the palace as deliverypeople, but that she wanted them to kill Heyvyr Langsod, a former warden captain, who murdered her son, but has since retired to become [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]'s food taster.

The party infiltrated the Palace under the guise of delivery-people and were able to poison Heyvyr without raising immediate alarms. They made their way to the south end and met Sylvia Giles, who had the book of [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]'s memoirs. She directed them, after being defeated (and subsequently incapacitated) to a rehersal hall near the Red Crescent theater,where they fought and killed a group (including a doppleganger). They retrieved one of [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]'s diaries and escaped Pitax.

'''{{Sarenith}} 16th'''

Juniper Stargrove presented [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]'s (censored?) [[Irovetti's Diary|diary]] to them, and they learned a great many things about [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]]. Whether any of this could be used against him was a matter for ongoing discussion. It was suggested that [[Castruccio Irovetti|Irovetti]] might now be carrying Briar with him, as he was aware that his diary was compromised, and there was a brief game of "we know he knows" played among the PCs, who eventually agreed to think on the matter some more before Rushlight.

[[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] sparred with [[Taj Dakarawa|Taj]], going easy on him and trying to help him improve. She determined that [[Taj Dakarawa|Taj]] was vastly weaker than her at this point, and, in a fit of rage at being wounded by a lucky blow from him, she pummeled him into near-death. In the end, he decided that she made the right decision in leaving the tribe and decided that he likewise needed to go on an adventure. Although [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] tried to convince him to stay, arguing, to some degree, that he was much stronger than he had once been, that her magic items may be largely responsible for their differing levels of power, and that even if he does go adventuring, he should have somewhere to call home. [[Makenna Dakarawa|Makenna]] didn't want him to go, but couldn't really express a good reason why. Eventually, she decided that she would help outfit him for adventure, giving him her +2 dwarven warhammer, some potions and other items.

[[Reem Aaron|Reem]] preached and taught the will of Pharasma, but found that he needed to dumb it down.

[[Tindalos]] spent time with his wife and son. During the course of this interaction, he determined that Victor vastly preferred the presence of his father to his mother, and was even reluctant to nurse trying instead to consume adult food for which his digestive system was ill-suited. Patricia the halfling midwife who assisted his wife's birth was consulted and said she found it troubling. She recommended finding a cleric of the Hag Queen with which to consult, as followers of Gyronna had a special affinity for prophecies and portents regarding children. He ended up asking the Beldame about it, and she explained that his Qlippoth-spawned son found sin - not merely evil, but the mortal expression of it - to be painful, and that the only true remedy would be to convince [[Kressle]] to atone. He sought out [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] to assist in this effort. When [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] proved incapable of convince [[Kressle]], [[Tindalos]] sought Jhod, who recommended [[Akiros Ismort|Akiros]] to talk to [[Kressle]], as he was one who had been redeemed from his status as a fallen Paladin. Eventually, he was able to show [[Kressle]] the error of her ways and [[Reem Aaron|Reem]] cast an atonement upon her, causing her to become Chaotic Neutral.

[[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] disguised himself and went about performing throughout Easthaven. [[Deleksin_Thayer|Deleksin]] spread the song he wrote for the Nymph Queen, a song he wrote to be catchy, simple and pleasing, while still praising her. He saw the woman who was with the Nightbird, but let it slide after determining that she appeared to be staying alone at a nearby inn. He also discovered, while traveling in Kadria, that there was a 16,000 gp reward for Ollix Kaddar, dead or alive.

All of this took roughly a week until the 26th of Sarenith.

'''{{Sarenith}} 26th'''

The party explored some of the southwest hexes.

'''{{Sarenith}} 27th'''

The party encountered the Hunigra Cyclops Tribe, whose leader Meliore demanded tribute from them. They gave them potions of Bull's Strength, more as an act of goodwill.

'''{{Sarenith}} 28th - 29th'''

They explored further. At some point they spotted a Bulette, which they avoided.

'''{{Sarenith}} 30th'''

The party spotted a silver dragon in the distance, and flew up to meet with it. Eranex, the fey silver dragon they encountered, spoke of a blade, asking if they had found it. The blade apparently skipped through time and had been destroyed multiple times. She stated she lived in Lake Silverstep (which is a portal to the First World). She was interested in Nyrissa's story, and stated that when she was free of her quest to find the blade, she would likely seek out Nyrissa. She also stated that Ilthuliak had fled to the First World after being dominated briefly by Irovetti.

====KINGDOM TURN 26====

===Erastus ===

'''{{Erastus}} 1st - 7th'''

A kingdom turn was had, much claiming was made, and a large number of [[Kingmaker:Magic Items|Magic Items]] were rolled. Finally, a random encounter noted that they had been invited to a festival, and after bringing 3 BP worth of gifts, improved a number of their kingdom's stats.

'''{{Erastus}} 8th'''

The party arrived comfortably at the Rushlight tournament grounds. They brought with them a gift of fishing equipment cast in gold of silver, including rods, hooks, bobbers and lures.

A jongeleur named Fellipe told Deleksin that Brevoy was uninvited because of the Iron Wraiths.

Makenna and Tindalos went to and enjoyed the menagerie, and Tindalos was propositioned by Madame Duclarion (who may or may not want a Tiefling child). They then agreed to endorse Bixen Libixyten's mead. They also spoke with an archer (Bertren Orlen) who wanted desperately to prove that other competitors were cheating in the archery competition. He had, apparently, tried to call out the previous year's winner after coming in second and was shunned for making a mockery of the competition without cause. He offered them a substantial reward if they could successfully prove not only that there was a cheater, but that Villamor Koth was an inferior opponent (by defeating him). Reem discovered that the Remorhaz spent its time cursing Irovetti.

They met with Irovetti, asking him questions regarding the nature of the tournament. At one point, Deleksin's old friend Colin the Delightful came to deliver some news to Irovetti. Irovetti seemed to already know the news, whatever it may have been. As they were speaking with Irovetti, Ollix Koddar, now a Pathfinder Agent (to Irovetti's disdain), came in to throw in his hat as the representative of Kadria (who had apparently declined initially). Irovetti was delighted by this, as his buffoonery was impressive to him. He went so far as to promise to reclaim Ollix's throne on his behalf should he win the tournament.

'''{{Erastus}} 9th'''

The archery competition saw archers of varying talents take position. Ollix went first and scored 15 points with a purely lucky shot on the final target (incidentally, tying for dead last with the incredibly unlucky competitor from Tymon). Daggermark initially came in 2nd, but lost the position when they were disqualified for using adamantine-treated arrows. Easthaven came in second, just defeating Villamor Koth (in a second overtime round that resulted from abysmal luck on Villamor's part). Ollix was disappointed that no "secret points" were awarded. He wore an outlandish archer outfit.

The archery competition complete, it is announced that the lumberjacking competition will be in four hours. Reem got drunk and hung out with a warrior who worshiped of Cayden Calien (who bantered with him over whose god had the best drinks). Makenna avoided everyone, and ate by herself. Tindalos was a feather. Deleksin looked for his friend Colin the Delightful.

Colin agreed to tell Deleksin something he would dearly like to know in return for three favors to be named later. Deleksin agreed and Colin informed him, ultimately, that the Swordlords of Restov were on the verge of revolution and were waiting for the leaders of Easthaven to return from the tournament to expel the Breven peacekeepers from Restov. Brevoy, meanwhile, has been waiting for the opportune moment to assault Easthaven, and would likely be pleased enough at Restov's choice. Colin admitted that Irovetti once had an insanely active spy network, but that this had passed, and now Colin was his spymaster (and a former member of the Iron Wraiths, who had visited Easthaven while they were dealing with Drelev). He admitted to being the mastermind behind Grigori, and even deigned fit to give some advice.

"Consider your options," he said, "You can still stop the Rostlandic revolution. You could still join Irovetti as an ally. If you're truly bold, you could take both. You could join with Brevoy. All of these are possible. Do what is best for you and your kingdom." With that, he left.

The lumberjack competition started at sunset. Kadria went first, once again, and Ollix opted, embarrassingly, for the battle axe (lighter than the great axe, less versatile than the hand axes). He broke the head off, though, when he tried to chop a log from atop it, and ended up getting his only other point by lifting a log and dropping it on the broken axe head (after trying fruitlessly to chisel one with the axe head) for 2 points.

Ollix complained that he had never cut wood before, and that he would have done considerably better if he had been able to see others go first. Deleksin loudly requested 6 fresh logs be brought out. Ollix complained of blisters and Deleksin healed them. Irovetti proclaimed that if he could split just two logs he would be declared winner. Deleksin proclaimed that he should show how the aristocracy would cut lumber, and Ollix shouted "servants!" Instead of trying to fell any given log, he opted to strike each log one decisive blow and move on, damaging east and scoring 12 points, tying with Daggermark (although Irovetti is quick to point out this is an unofficial revision, but concedes that it's hard to say that he brought shame to Kadria when he tied one of the most respected River Nations).

52 Easthaven, 48 Pitax, 42 Mivon, 41 Gralton, 40 Tymon, 27 Kadria, 12 Daggermark

They then stepped aside to speak in private, and eventually Deleksin suggested that Ollix Koddar should be made leader of Pitax if possible, partially because they presume his father will "forgive" him, and partially because they believe that if they put Ollix in his place, there will be an assumption that he is the god of Incompetence. Makenna and Reem reluctantly accepted.

Ollix stated that he would give them a gift after the tournament.

Rigg Gargadilly showed up in their tent. He presented them with Nyrissa's request that they retrieve the Blade Briar before the end of the tournament, they will receive protection by Nyrissa.

He went to spread a rumor of Ollix, and met Ollix afterward to advise him of the rumor. When Ollix left, he searched his tent, found his gift and opened it and briefly perused it. It was a book called "Zuddiger's Picnic" which contained a strange story written by a serial killer who may have visited the First World. It ends with Zuddiger giving a woman, definitely Nyrissa, his sword in return for his spoon and a crow (which he eats).

'''{{Erastus}} 10th'''

They completed the gauntlet, scoring 25 points.

77 Easthaven, 68 Pitax, 66 Gralton, 60 Tymon, 52 Mivon, 47 Kadria, 32 Daggermark

The boasting competition is next. King Deleksin introduces himself with his building a kingdom out of nothing (28X); they called a dragon and slew it (36X "Dragon slaying is solitary" -5 "Yes, but I also bedded her" +5); he played his mbira (45); he thanked the crowd for being such good sports (43). +15

Ollix did more poorly than anticipated (falling flat on his introduction), but had a solid boast. Pitax's contestant not only beat them with her boast, but actually claimed to be Nyrissa and to have not only brought the PC's there, but also to have guided and bolstered their growth.

92 Easthaven, 78 Pitax, 66 Gralton, 60 Tymon, 52 Mivon, 47 Kadria, 42 Daggermark

They disguised themselves as slightly different versions of themselves and teleported to the docks and picked a fight with a group of wardens and a herald. They then proceeded to the palace, and got inside, where they were entrapped by Jurrg, Irovetti's General, who offered, insincerely, to allow them to surrender. He allowed them to swap the warden armor for something more appropriate. They then engaged in a life or death struggle which ended with a number of dead wardens, a herald that fled, a weretiger and wererat who fled, Jurrg's death, and the death of several trained trolls.

The party ended up locating Irovetti's secret bedroom, where they met a naga who immediately teleported away. They search the area and eventually found Briar, hidden in a grotto. They were surprised to find that Briar appeared to be a normal +4 bastard sword (although Beltashazzar was certain that the blade had a hidden potential). Deleksin feel deeply in love with the blade, and realized that it was his true muse, not Nyrissa. They escaped through the sewer and teleported back to their tents.

The midnight joust began, and Ollix made it through the first round to everyone's surprise. Tindalos endorsed the mead by riding backwards "you won't know what way is forward." Tindalos defeated Sir Branniel, Khristel from Mivon, and barely overcame Chantel Urena from Daggermark, before being handily defeated by Villamor Koth (and subsequently threatened).

Irovetti invited them rather forcefully to his tent, where he shared what he knew of Nyrissa with them and told them that he had been reluctant to meet with them for fear of their being enslaved to Nyrissa. He admitted her was enthralled to her, but compelled shape-shifting lovers to take her form so he could wean himself from her. He further admitted to being the mastermind behind hiring Grigori.

Irovetti told them that Nyrissa had been responsible for their every misfortune, and had empowered a great many of their enemies and engineered a large number of their foibles and foils. Deleksin argued that these had made them stronger. They contemplated how to handle Briar. They came up with a few plans, most of which were deemed impractical, and Tindalos recommended that they take the sword to Thousand Voices, believing that there the First World would be close enough that they could confront Nyrissa.

During the conversation, Baer stared daggers at Reem while Villamor Koth did so to Makenna.

Irovetti bid them good night, adding that they were still entitled to the prize for winning the Rushlight Tournament. He further added that he would do the unthinkable and let them handle the situation, stating that he was "prepared to leave" the River Kingdoms to avoid Nyrissa's wrath if need be.

They returned to their tent to find Ollix Kaddar, who gave them a copy of the book Zuddiger's Picnic, reminded them of its history, and showed them the map of Thousandbreaths inside. He then told them he needed to move on, but not before suggesting they reciprocate the gift with monuments to his honor and a theater dedicated in his name. He seemed to be of the opinion this would piss of his father.

They returned to their tent and discussed their plans. They agreed to Commune with Pharasma.

# ''Is destroying Briar in our best interest?'' ''' It may one day be. '''
# ''Is going back on our word to Restov in the best interest of Easthaven?'' ''' It is, but it will not be sufficient. '''
# ''Is Castruccio Irovetti a stabilizing factor in the Stolen Lands?'' ''' Yes. '''
# ''Does Irovetti intend to attack Easthaven?'' ''' Perhaps someday. '''
# ''Will Castruccio Irovetti break his word if he finds out he can gain substantially from it?'' ''' He no longer knows what he has to gain. '''
# ''Will giving the sword to Nyrissa have cataclysmic repercussions for anyone upon whom we do not wish evil to befall?'' ''' It is assuredly so. '''
# ''At her current strength, do we stand a reasonable chance of defeating Nyrissa?'' ''' No. '''
# ''Can we trust Nyrissa to keep her word once we have given her the sword?'' ''' You may not wish her to. '''
# ''If we use the sword against her, will we stand a chance?'' ''' Yes, but do you know how? '''
# ''Do I already know how to use the sword against her?'' ''' You cannot already know. '''
# ''Is the way of using the sword against her something we have already considered?'' ''' You could not have. '''

'''{{Erastus}} 11th'''

They spoke with Irovetti and discussed things with him. They agreed to create illusionary forms to accept the prize on their behalf. They then proceeded to Thousandvoices. 

When they realized they had reached the edge of Thousandvoices, and that they might spend considerable time there, they sent a message to Jemanda Aldori:

* ''We have heard rumor that war with Brevoy was pending. At this time we're indisposed. If this changes you plans, we apologize.'' '''We await your return. The pot boils and threatens to spill over. Desperately need your support.'''

And to Oleg:

* ''Doing dangerous stuff. May not be back for while. Raise the best army you can to defend Easthaven. Not for anything else. Love to Kressle'' '''Your wife sends her love. Will arm the militia and outfit the irregulars. Am prepared to raise mercenary companies. Will advise of any further'''

They avoided a circle of pixies, and during camp (after making as little mark on the forest as possible) they spotted a winged Owlbear.

'''{{Erastus}} 12th'''

They reached a river and followed it north where they encountered a group of nymphs bathing. They startled these by showing them the map of Thousandbreaths, and one accidentally blinded Tindalos (subsequently healed by Reem). The nymph eventually conceded the location of Nyrissa's lair, a day's travel to the west. They made camp.

'''{{Erastus}} 13th'''

The party awoke to the sounds of wingbeats. Nyrissa sent a message:
''Though your decision to bring the sword directly to me is unorthodox, I applaud your intiative and praise your efforts, beloved gnome Deleksin.'' '''We will see you soon.'''

''Unforutnately, I cannot meet you within Thousand Voices - the barrier between worlds is much too strong. My servant, Ilthuliak, approaches. Deliver the sword to him.'' '''My companions and I have no intention to put it in anyone's hands but your own.'''

Nyrissa then took control of the forest and declared forcefully "TRAITORS! ASSASSINS! YOU ALWAYS MEANT TO BETRAY ME! YOU ALWAYS PLANNED TO SLAY ME WITH THE BLADE! I KNEW OF YOUR TREACHERY!" When, however, the party prepared to flee, Nyrissa declared, "No! Don't leave! Please! See? I will uphold my part of the bargain as a show of goodwill! Brevoy will never harm you!" With that, the sun was blotted out and the sky grew glossy and crystalline. They battled Ilthuliak briefly, but when Tindalos managed to slow him, he fled in earnest with a teleportation spell.

The party briefly suggested waiting for his return, but fled instead to Littletown, where the people were in shock and awe as the sun had been blotted from the sky. The party sent a message to Agela to let her know they had found Ilthuliak and to meet in Littletown. Agela responded, "I cannot: the Stolen Land is gone."

The party rested until sundown, when it seemed apparent that Ilthuliak was no longer pursuing. [[Anamar Lellewen]], a Tiefling, requested that they retrieve the ichor of a Devourer from / while in the First World, and offered them a scarab of protection (which they found to be extraneous to Reem's abilities). They did agree to do it and, he took his leave of them. They stayed at the inn in Littletown, where they noted that the sky was fuzzy with small twinkling bits, and pale, diffuse moonlight.

'''{{Erastus}} 14th''' (Day 1)

Tindalos became a feather, and they rethought their plans. They bought horses and went overland.

'''{{Erastus}} 15th - 17th''' (Day 2 - 4)

The party made their way to Castle Darksky. Kressle expressed that the people are panicking and that, while she knows this isn't helpful and that they shouldn't accept responsibility, they should most definitely try to find a solution.

'''{{Erastus}} 18th''' (Day 5.)

Arrived in Tatzylford, where Loy Rezbin admitted that he was using Phantasmal Terrain and a strict curfew to prevent the news from spreading. He admitted this was an impulsive decision and that he doesn't know how long he can hold the charade. He said that if things don't improve soon, this may lead to EXTREME unrest. Deleksin suggested that the best solution would be to insist that the leaders of Easthaven did what they could to stave this off, but that they had failed.  Tindalos returned and the party teleported back to Olegston.

In Olegston, Kesten was having a quarrel with a group of Wood Giants outside the city, who admitted that they were afraid to remain in the forest, as Nyrissa was building an army, and may delusionally believe that she is creating a new Court. Avronest the leader of the Wood Giants agreed to work as a mercenary.

Unrest +3

A scroll of sending to Irovetti:
''We've found some details. It's maybe an attack from the First World. We're working on a solution. Send any information that you have. Messenger incoming.'' '''I fear the Jabberwock comes for me, and my dream of escape is dashed. Retreating to my chambers to wait. I've naught to offer. Goodbye.'''

They made contact directly with Irovetti, who said that his kingdom was devolving into anarchy due to the breakdown of the criminal guilds. Deleksin was able to motivate him to resume his conquest of Pitax and, furthermore, to overcome the criminal guilds. Reem resurrected Avinash, his Oni General.

Ervol Pendrod theorized that they were in some sort of recursive nested object placed upon a windowsill. He provided a believable argument for this, and said if they could figure out where it is, they could probably acquire the item they are in. In the end, he explained that the people of Varnhold will "Keep calm and carry on."

Zzamas, the Phase Spider stated that she didn't believe that the Ethereal Plane would offer them an escape. She also explained that she laid eggs, and needed to be around for their hatching and to teach some tricks to the new phase spiders. She was disturbed by the notion that "monkey people" were not only born without a language (except the "secret language" she reasoned MUST be inside them) but that they took around 14 years to hit full maturity.

The party teleported to Tuskwater. Upon their arrival, they were greeted by Half-Orc Mayor Slodagh. He stated they had been attacked by three Nucklavee and four of the militia were slain. He told them that the lake was full of strange events, churning water and black swans Moreover, the water made people sick. Deleksin gave a speech to calm the people. Meanwhile Reem raised the dead. Reem determined that the water appeared to be contaminated by water elementals.

'''{{Erastus}} 19th''' (Day 6)

They went to the Sootscale Tribe. The Sootscales had holed up deep underground, as their shaman Rekmahk had argued the sky was currently deadly, and they believed a second rain of stars may be impending. Upon realizing that it was a "net", Chief Sootscale agreed to attempt to make a knife that could cut them free. They spoke to the shaman, who promised death from above. Chief Sootscale was asked to delve out greater domains deeper within his domain for a potential influx of refugees. Chief Sootscale said that it would be necessary to be provided, and the party paid exorbitantly for housing.

Svetlana had rallied the people and prepared disaster relief, which was diverted to the Sootscale kobolds to defer costs.

They moved on to the Murque Tribe, who were certain that the leaders of Easthaven could deal with this problem. They moved on to Candlemere which seemed generally unaffected.

'''{{Erastus}} 20th''' (Day 7)

The party awoke to note that the hex was filled with algae bloom. They went back to Tuskwater and killed all the fae elementals and as a result increased the Sharpness of Briar to 3. This fixed the algae bloom.

From there, they traveled to Tatzylford to set the people at ease, but discovered that Dovan from Nisroch had returned as a ghost to declare that all should proclaim loyalty to Nyrissa. They gave a speech and instated a curfew. They then teleported to Whiterose where Half-elven fighter Sheyvr, the local leader, was given a scroll of sending.

In Castle Darksky, things were calm, but it was the calm before a storm. Kressle was comforted by Tindalos. They then decided that they ought seek out the ghosts.

'''{{Erastus}} 21th''' (Day 8)
 
The party investigated the ghost sighting in Tatzylford  on the 18th of Erastus. They decided that most likely to ghost's anchor was to the west. The party traveled to the grave sites, where they found that the graves had been disturbed, almost certainly by a large animal. With no other leads, they made their way west to follow the ghost.

They move through hexes, sweeping for anything unusual, but in the first few hexes found nothing unusual.  Eventually, though, they came upon a point where the hex was overgrown, and traveled south to find great fungal overgrowth and eventually found several huge swarms of mandragora.

'''{{Erastus}} 22nd''' (Day 9)

The party returned to battle the Mandragora, this time on the ground and this time with some of their ears plugged. The swarms attacked them viciously, but Briar was able to gain sharpness and become sentient, projecting an empathic aura. The Mandragora were deafeated and the bloom broke. They then teleported to the Temple of Erastil. From there they teleport to the Varnhold Pass Watch Post. Julianna gave her report, regarding frost giants seen in the mountains to the south. The party decided to rest.

'''{{Erastus}} 23rd''' (Day 10)

Message from Irovetti: '''Regained control of city. No Jabberwock to be seen. Reports that unknown forces have razed Littletown.''' Deleksin: ''We are glad to hear that you are successful. Still trying to calm situation up here. Need anything?''

The party headed south to confront the source of this frost. They found a group of frost giants around an icy monolith. The Frost Giants immediately attacked and the party defended themselves, slaying them. They discovered that the monolith was covered in names, and built like a tombstone. They found the names of all those they thought to see, including themselves. They melted it, and the subsequent explosion cleared the snow. Searching among the Frost Giants, the party found:
* 1500 gp worth of miscellaneous goods
* a holy symbol of... Nyrissa? (lock of blonde hair wrapped around a thistle)
* 3 potions of cure moderate wounds
* 2 high quality adamantine ingots (750 gp each)
* +2 Heavy Mace

They then returned to the post where they reported that everything was taken care of. They then teleported to Castle Darksky.

'''{{Erastus}} 24rd''' (Day 11)

Throughout the trip, they surveyed the horizon for Blooms as they made their way toward Whiterose. They spotted a wandering grove of treants which they attempted to approach, but were met with threats of hurled rocks. They went to ground level and Reem cast Sanctuary on himself. The treants initially were agreeable and said that they only sought to travel to the Narlmarches to carve out a home after they refused to join with Nyrissa. They stated that they would coexist with humans who did not threaten the forest. Eventually, Reem told them who he was and they loudly proclaimed that they would make no alliance or abet them in any way. Tindalos insisted that the treants should NOT be allowed in the kingdom, lest capricious Nyrissa demand that they be destroyed for allying. The party eventually agreed to demand that the treants not enter the kingdom. Eventually, however, they agreed to fly past and demand that they stay out of Easthaven. The treants likely got the message.

Sheyver of Whiterose reported that the village of Littletown was razed by an army of ettin. [[Anamar Lellewen]] emerged from the shadows and confirmed that it was an organized army of ettins and a good many beasts with them. The Blooms were described to him and he suggested gathering bits of their essence to use to make a sort of divining rod to track the rest of the blooms through their First World connections. He offered his assistance in return for the devourer ichor. The party rested. They teleported to the mandragora husks and collected ALL the mandragora husks. They did the same with the icewater from the icy grave (collecting 720 gallons of water in the portable hole). Then they teleported to Tuskwater and spent the night there.

'''{{Erastus}} 25th''' (Day 12)

The Mayor of Tuskwater said that Bokken's Brother had claimed to make a deal with Nyrissa. The party agreed to speak with him, and he admitted to having made it up in a convoluted scheme to gain release. They ended up having him executed after letting everyone know that his claims were false, but still treasonous. They ended up resurrecting him after the fact. They sent him on his way with instructions that he should send the Stag Lord's 
father to them if he meets him again.

'''{{Erastus}} 26th''' (Day 13)

Reem awoke to a dream of being assaulted by scorpions with wounds from that dream. They then received a sending from Stroon saying that Castle Darksky was under attack and the city was burning. The party arrived to find Kressle protecting Victor. A small honor guard was still at the castle, but the militia was mostly devastated. The party was able to kill a lot of advanced Ettins, but were ambushed by a giant flying owlbear, several hellhounds and a satyr that they realized was the reborn Stag Lord, who injured Makenna pretty seriously. They were able to repel him. They sent a sending to Stroon.

Sending to Stroon: ''Darksky no longer under attack. Are you safe?'' '''In courtyard. Spells exhausted. So very, very sorry.'''

They resurrected the slain cleric Satinder Morne, who was displeased by the whole situation. They were able to control the fire. Reem almost perished. They further debated the nature of the opportunity to resurrect the people of Castle Darksky (217 dead), starting with the militia. They rested until mid-afternoon, then sundown to recover spells so that Reem could cast raise dead type spells, exhausting his supply.

'''{{Erastus}} 27th''' (Day 14)

The party teleported to Fort Tuskwater. Beltashazzar was able to retrieve a clump of black waterlogged feathers. They then returned to Castle Darksky where they delivered the materials to Imekus Stroon. He agreed to do the research with Anamar, but said that it would be infinitely more helpful if they brought him more shreds of blooms. They checked the source of the Skunk River, but found nothing there.

==== Day 15 ====

'''{{Erastus}} 28th''' (Day 15)

The morning at Olegston found the party visited by a messenger who stated that the mayor, Slodagh, was killed by repeated strikes of lightning. The party proceeded there and raised him from the dead. He was able to tell them that he had a disturbing dream before being struck by lightning, and then awoke to being resurrected. The inn had burned the day previous, killing one person, a Mordecai Dulier (of the Taldan Duliers) who stated that he dreamed of being a small animal trapped in a forest fire, and was then consumed by fire and subsequently awoke to being consumed by fire, dying.

Dulier was able to retrieve his portable hole containing his equipment. Tindalos theorized that this was a magical effect that targeted the most powerful character in the area. They determined that it was Reem, then a fire, then the mayor being struck repeatedly by lightning. They decided to let Deleksin sleep and all the others would watch over him while he sleeps (having all rested prior thereunto).

Deleksin dreamed that his friends tried to kill him and he tried and failed to kill them, dying in the process.

They visited the Belldame, who said that a Lizardfolk in the Murque Tribe had had a dream that a tiger ate him and was then killed by a tiger (and subsequently resurrected). She mused that she believed this originated at Candlemere.

While the party was camped there, however, it turned out that Deleksin was dominated and he managed to coup de grace both Makenna and Reem. They teleported first to the Murque Tribe, where there were no healers to resurrect them, then to Castle Darksky to have Reem and Makenna raised. They then teleported back to Candlemere after Deleksin was able to explain what had actually happened.

They enacted their plan. Tindalos had a dream wherein Kressle was dying, while Victor had been sent safely away, he kissed Kressle, who turned out to be a succubus. She drained him, but he managed to fight it, and push her out the window. He then noticed a stuffed crow in the room, which he attempted to destroy and managed to get a 30 attack roll (despite his level drain) to chase it off. When he awoke, a crow feather was in his hand. Furthermore, Brair had begun speaking.

Briar introduced herself and stated that she cared very deeply about the entire party. She went on to say that she needs help to reunite with Nyrissa and that she believes deeply that Nyrissa will be cured of her evil and madness. She further stated that she needed to apologize to the Stag Lord, to Hargulka, to Castruccio Irovetti ("poor, dear Mandalruccio") and to various other figures. She admitted that she didn't know how to reunite with Nyrissa, but that she believed that they could destroy enough of the Blooms to reawaken her and eventually draw out Nyrissa. She also promised the party that she couldn't lie, because love cannot practice deception (and she is love, after all).

'''{{Erastus}} 29th''' Day 16

In the wee hours of the morning, Deleksin sneaked off to ask Briar what was up with his heart. Briar said that she needed to "see" it and Deleksin thought better of it. They all rested until morning. The party teleported to Castle Darksky to present the items to Imeckus and Anamar. Imeckus stated that First World energy was pressing in, possibly only one way. Briar suggested they search terrain they had not previously. They decided to search the swamp.

The party flew to the Boggard camps, where they found that the majority of the Boggards had fled and that they had disguised their camp. A Boggard presented them with food and said that he presumed that they had come to extract tribute. He expressed that he believed that  The skies had gone dark once again as in the days of Starfall. They demanded he return with their priest.

The priest Surkosok said that he believed it was the work of the Demon Lord Pazuzu. The party decided to set forth to retrieve a Froghemoth for them, even though they warned.

They traveled south, spotting Dracolisks and eventually the Marsh Giants, who told them that what they seek would be to the West of their Lands, and the East of their Lands, in a narrow corridor. They also were told that their enemies would rise as a whole to destroy them. They teleported to the Sootscale Tribe to begin their search, where they failed to find what they were looking for, and speculated that the giants might be describing something that had already happened. They rested for the night.

'''{{Erastus}} 30th''' Day 17

They continued to search the mountain area for evidence of a bloom. They encountered nothing of import, save a roc preening itself. They then traveled to the Loney Barrow, passing some hill giants along the way.

They arrived at the Lonley Barrow, where they found the tribe of Spriggans led by Agai, who was unsupportive, but admitted not only that he didn't know any such thing, but that he was visited by one of Nyrissa's servants and had been offered a pact with Nyrissa, which he had not yet accepted, demanding a promise not to be set against by the leaders of Easthaven. Deleksin had Agai stab him.

The party progressed to Vordakai's tomb, which they found to be, essentially, barren. The wyverns spoke with them there and told them that they had seen a trio of cyclopses in mourning graments headed west, but that was all. They then teleported to Varnhold to meet with Stroon who said he would have a device to seek out Blooms by morning.

'''{{Erastus}} 31th''' Day 18

Following the divining rod brought them to an area where the swamp appeared to be rotting and fading with furrows that looked like mole furrows.

They fought a group of vicious mire worms, killing them with Imeckus Stroon's help. They collected a small red worm fragment and Imeckus explained that he's certain that the Blooms are openings, not merely inbound energy.

The party decided to bring Imeckus with them to the next Bloom, and decided to rest in Olegston. The party did discuss the possibility of the Bloom being in Aurum Heights. Eventually, they agreed to stay in Aurum Heights, where there did NOT appear to be any Bloom, however, upon their arrival, one of the townspeople said that the fields had been overgrowing for a couple of days, but last night thick kudzu vines had underlain the fields, and yesterday, a couple of the farmers had disappeared. Imeckus bought the supplies he needed to research the Bloom and everyone agreed that finding and dealing with the Bloom was more important. They healed and waited until sundown so Reem would have a full collection of spells.

The Bloom was filled with topiaries of massed kudzu, overgrowing and choking the crops, eventually coming across a trio of horrid giants (Athachs) armed with that sought to slay them with gardening implements. The very vines on the ground sought to attack them. Tindalos' arm was severed by an attack. They eventually destroyed the bloom and Reem regenerated Tindalos' arm. The Bloomfinder detected no further Blooms.

The party then teleported to Castle Darksky and rested for the night. There, they took the time to study Zuddiger's Picnic and decided that many of the Blooms corresponded with it. Briar pointed out that the Eldest made the waterfall and that it isn't Nyrissa's.

===Arodus===

'''{{Arodus}} 1st''' Day 19

A pixie was on Tindalos' windowsill. Limm Ticklewing's sisters, Mil, Lin, Tel, Sel, Nes and Elle, were captured by a terrible little worm man and a wicked hag-witch, who gave it to a troll. She said they were captured because they refused to join Nyrissa's army, but that she was more stealthy... and maybe it was because they only had six little cages. Reem promised to return the sisters unhurt and Tindalos determined that there was a new Bloom formed due East of Castle Darksky.

'''{{Arodus}} 2nd''' Day 20

They arrived at the edge of the Bloom at the Skunk River. Imekus Stroon confirmed that, as he feared, the Blooms are intended to seed First World power into the Stolen Lands. He suggested that this was to make the place inhabitable to her. He was instructed to give his notes to the Beldame and then proceeded to Candlemere to prepare to siphon First Wold power out of this pocket realm.

They proceeded to the Temple of the Elk, which appeared to have been entombed in a horrifying black weave of thorns and brambles. Within it, a horrible Misbegotten Troll and his six pet smilodons. He was protected by a necklace containing six fairies which appeared to kill one of them each time he was attacked (they killed one before they realized this). They were able to pry the necklace off him and grease it to prevent him from picking it up. Upon slaying him, they recovered his Reem resurrected the fairy, who introduced herself as Nes. They freed the other fairies. They reunited them with her sister

Briar can now speak telepathically and is vorpal against First World inhabitants. She also gained the power to case ''True Ressurection'' on Deleksin once per day.

The party teleported to Castle Darksky to care for their Kingdom.

====KINGDOM TURN 27====

No hexes claimed due to state of emergency.

'''MINOR'''

* Potion of Protection From Chaos
* Scroll of Web
* Scroll of Alter Self
* Scroll of Endure Elements
* Scroll of Major Image
* Scroll of Spider Climb
* Wand of Fireball
* Wand of Summon Nature's Ally II
* Wand of Bless Water
* Glowing +1 Halberd
* Scroll of Chill Touch
* Wand of Cure Moderate Wounds
* Ring of Counterspells Inscribed with the Holy Symbol of Nethys

'''MEDIUM'''

* +1 Suit of Benevolent Chainmail
* Scroll of Glibness
* Ten Ring Sword

'''MAJOR'''
* A cloak of etherealness, sewn with gossamer threads that fade into an out of focus


'''{{Arodus}} 7th''' Day 25

Makenna retrained. When this was complete, they learned from one of the hunters that there was a huge army of mites and assorted fey approaching the city from the west, including several treants, unicorns and other strange assorted beasts. They rallied the local militia, as well as local heroic characters (notably Mordecai Dulier and Slodagh the mayor were present). Reem then suggested they summon a powerful ally. Reem knew he was capable of summoning a planetar angel and hoped to be able to negotiate based on Nyrissa's megalomaniacal nature. Deleksin jokingly suggested they give the planetar the Eye of Abaddon, and Reem realized that destroying the eye on the angel's behalf would almost certainly be accepted as payment. They did so, and secured the ally who agreed to lead them into battle.

They were confronted by the Mite's champion, a Mite who called himself "The Mitey-est," and consented to have their planetar ally face him in single combat. The planetar was wounded to half health by the mite and spent his flame stike and blade barrier spells, but quickly recovered. The mites charged, and the party was able to dispatch them more or less effortlessly, with some issues caused by the Mites' pet centipedes. They then faced another detachment of mites, and something within the battleground countered Tindalos' spell. They defeated them handily with the help of an ''earthquake'' spell by the planetar. 

The party confronted another group of mites just as they clashed with their armies proper. The mites were flanked and were falling quite handily, although a few athach giants within were able to cause considerable damage to the party. The party had just finished dealing with the athach giants when they saw treants suddenly fall upon the city and start destroying homes. The party healed and prepared to teleport to them.

Forces:
* 11 low level hedge wizards - Wizard / Sorcerer 1-4
* 4 low level witches - Witch 2-4
* 23 low level fighters - Warrior / Fighter 3-6
* 270 makeshift militia - Warrior / Fighter 1-3
* 400 auxiliaries - Expert / Adept 1-4
* 1100 worthless innocents
* Mordecai Dulier - 7th level cavlier
* Slodagh - 5th level barbarian

Enemy Forces (Known)
* An unknown number of nymphs / dryads (?)
* An unknown number of unicorns, at least a dozen (at least 2 black)
* 9 Treants
* several hundred mites (400-500?)
* millions of centipedes, botflies and other vermin
* large magical panther things
* several dozen advanced ettins
* one witch on a broomstick

The party teleported there, where they fought a deliriously mad witch and a group of treants, as well as some sort of magical cat creatures with unknown properties and a witch. The battle raged and they slew the enemy, despite serious damage to a great many homes. The treants, however, were able to break the broom before the party could retrieve it. Worse still, they spotted the planetar flying to the south side of the city, where a pair of Nuckalevees had broken through the walls and slaughtered some 41 of the people there with their vicious breath weapons. The planetar expressed grief at being unable to stop the ambush, but the enemy armies appeared to retreat.

'''{{Arodus}} 8th''' Day 26

Slightly after midnight, they received a ''sending'' from Imekus Stroon warning them that an army of Hill Giants is massing outside Castle Darksky. Because Tindalos suspected they would need to speak with him again, they asked the Planetar his name, and he told them his given name (but not his True Name) was Valarus.

The party arrived and determined that at least 50 hill giants mounted on Mastodons were sighted west of Castle Darksky less than a mile away. The party decided to make contact and try to parley with the giants. The giants' leader was Kob Moleg, a Giant Chief who was almost-human in appearance and significantly more eloquent than his kin. He expressed that he believed that he could overcome the party, but agreed that it was possibly that Nyrissa had lied to him about their pants being down. He seemed to ascertain that they were compromised, but was willing to strike a deal anyway. He told them he knew most of their weaknesses and, furthermore, knew the layout of Castle Darksky. Tindalos took scrolls of ''sending'' and went out to "place a few calls."

To Kressle: ''The secret passage is not safe. We are negotiating: prepare a boat.'' '''Ever the dutiful husband - thank you for the warning.'''

To Nyrissa ''Thank you for the giants. We're negotiating now. You're ever so helpful, you stupid cow. Ha Ha Ha Ha!'' '''I knew it! Moleg's treason was palpable the moment I gave him his new face! Soon you will ALL know my wrath.'''

They ended up making a deal with Kob Moleg that involved giving him the vicious ranseur from the Misbegotten Troll, 7 BP worth of accomodation and 7 BP worth of food and supplies every month, to be renegotiated monthly. Additionally, they agreed the Moleg was to defend the city if it should come under assault.

The party slept in until noon, then teleported to Candlemere to deal with Imekus Stroon. Imekus explained that he had finished preparing for the plan and could execute on their command. He added that he had created a circle against scrying to keep his work secret.

Meanwhile in Tuskwater, 28 of the 48 are alive again, and the city is in a strange state of pseudo-mourning. They spoke to Valarus, and Makenna asked him about Stroon's plan. Valarus confidently stated that this would restore the Kingdom to the Material Plane. He further expounded upon Stroon's work, the nature of Briar, the Eldest and Nyrissa herself. Notably, he was able to shed light on a few important facts:

* Nyrissa fell in love with Count Ranlac
* Count Ranlac, however, saw Nyrissa as an experiment to determine if he could mint a new Eldest.
* Nyrissa is '''not''' being '''punished'''. Being separated from Briar is merely a stoploss measure.
* Ranlac was punished, and now lives on the demiplane of Shadow.
* The Sword Briar was prophecied to slay Nyrissa.
* This was, however, before the Death of Aroden and the Age of Lost Omens, so now the prophecy is by no means guaranteed.

They further learned that the "Elf Gate" is technically a "Portal," and that it has "broken roots" that prevent it from being fully used. Valarus said that they need to restore the Thaumatosporer in the Infandibulum.

The party decided they should probably destroy Armag's Sword Ovinrbaane as they did the Eye of Abaddon. Deleksin believes that, as Pharasma and Gorum are bitter enemies, she would know what must be done. Reem and Deleksin seemed concerned that perhaps not destroying the sword would be the best decision (as it would give them a bargaining chit when dealing with planar entities), but Tindalos and Makenna suspected that it would be best to destroy things.

The party went to the Murque tribe to acquire incense and such. Mayor Ssalsshnassan greeted them, and asked for updates for his people. They purchased the incense. They decided to ask Pharasma, and Tindalos got the insane idea to use a ''sending'' to accomplish this. They then traveled to Candlemere. They awaited sunset and Reem prepared and performed the sending, this time contacting the Steward of the Skein.

"We apologize for inconveniencing you, we have the sword Ovinrbaane, we wish to know if you know how to destroy it. If so, how." ''A thing born of false immortality. You must come to the Boneyard, a petitioner, and break it upon the evidence of your own mortality.''

Night had fallen, and the party realized that the plan was impossible at this time. They teleported to Castle Darksky to see his wife and son.

'''{{Arodus}} 9th''' Day 27

The party teleported to the ruins of Littletown, where they found evidence of gnawed bones and a lumbering creature. They met a hill giant named Guverk, with whom they inadvertently traded trail rations for rubies. They then moved deeper into the woods and cast Tiny Hut for a night's rest.


'''{{Arodus}} 10th''' Day 28

The party came to the rotten remains of a palisade, and subsequently the moat of a castle. They traveled into the gates of the ruined Castle of Knives. There, they were set upon by the Jabberwock, whom they slew with great effort. Then, a great blast of green light brought a stream of stone and mortar and after teleporting out, the party caught a brief glimpse of Nyrissa's home where the Castle of Knives once lay before a massive impenetrable forest of incomprehensible size swelled around it. Nyrissa then announced, "You have accomplished nothing! You have only fed my power! My army is as powerful now as it ever was! Each blow against me is a losing war of attrition! You '''will''' be defeated, your people '''will''' die, your kingdom '''will''' fall!"

As Nyrissa screamed at them, the party calmly discussed whether they were prepared to have Imeckus Stroon "pull the plug" on the whole thing. After much debate, they decided to teleport there, along with the Jabberwock blood they had gathered. Stroon activated the portal, and, for a moment, the only change was the darkening of the sky, but then the dome above them cracked, splintered and split, shattering into a thousand pieces. This was followed by the haunting sound of a thousand screams as the sun above the Stolen Lands burst into view.

'''<nowiki>*Burbling Intensifies*</nowiki>'''

Stroon teleported back to Castle Darksky after gathering his things. The party stood in partial paralysis of their newfound freedom, but eventually agreed to wait on killing Reem to destroy Ovinrbaane.

Tindalos sent a ''sending'' to the elven diplomat, "I Tindalos ruler of easthaven, as per our agreement, request the aid of your griffin riders for our kingdom's protection - we are at war." "In honor of our agreement, I will see that proper arrangements are made. Look to the south and make appropriate preparations."

Tindalos sent to Aegela: "Easthaven has returned. We are fine. Nyrissa is in the Material Plane; she's trying to destroy everything. She hasn't succeeded yet. Hope you are fine." "I am well. Your Kingdom's return has already not gone unnoticed, as the thunderclap was heard from Stetven. I shall be bound for Olegston."

The party traveled by Sky Chariot to Olegston. There, they met with Oleg and Aegela, who explained that while things were better, Skywatch was opening her gates, Restov had declared Rostlandic independence (though Brevoy seemed too preoccupied for an agressive siege.

They sent a message to Jemanda Aldori with ''sending'': We have returned. "We are stabilizing our kingdom. We will send aid ASAP. Is there anything we can personally do to assist you? Teleportation available." "Break the Brevan siege. Send your armies. Hail free Rostland!" The party decided they would hold out on that until they had dealt with Nyrissa.

To Irovetti: "Nyrissa is on the material plane, we plan to deal with her posthaste. How are things with you?" "The crisis is over, Pitax prevails and will rebuild that which we lost. We hope this shared experience strengthens our bond as River Kings."

The party rested.

'''{{Arodus}} 11th''' Day 29, freed from Nyrissa's power.

The party awakened and Reem cast ''discern location''. The First World -> Avistan -> West Pitax -> Thousandvoices -> The High Folly.

The party teleported outside the forest of Thousandvoices with Aegela. They traveled westward into Thousandvoices where they came to the remains of the Castle of Knives, save for a great stone archway with an iron portcullis and two iron statues of Nyrissa holding swords aloft. Tindalos determined that the gate was a ''gate'', and activated it blindly. They entered Thousandbreaths, where they encountered vicious deadly gas that they avoided entirely. The party then battled a group of lightning scarred Treants, which they slew, and while they stopped to gather their bark, Thousandbreaths returned to the prime material plane (as determined by Tindalos, presumably because of Nyrissa's need to tether her realm to living creatures).

Tindalos recommended that the pary deal with the things that might come cause them harm later. Deleksin suggested that the High Folly is an oubliette tower.

"The Youngest of the Eldest - a Tomb Forever Barren" 

A powerful Frost Giant Barbarian leaped forth, and was defeated by the party with minimal difficulty (although it was clear that if the fight had gone any different, it could have gone very poorly indeed).

They moved on to the glade of the Nightmare Rook and confronted the creature, who quickly intimidated them all (including Aegela), and though she frightened Tindalos, Aegela was able to steel him, and they slew the rook. Shortly after defeating it, Aegela spotted Ilthuliak, and the party readied themselves for the battle therewith.

The party fought Ilthuliak, slaying him in a hard-fought fight. Aegela ate his heart, and the party put his remains in the portable hole. They then planned to return to Castle Darksky, but Aegela told them to first collect Ilthuliak's horde from the top of the nearby tower. A number of crumbling, terrified statues of fey creatures were at the base of the tower. They collected the treasure, which, in addition to a large amount of gold and silver, included:

* <strike>+2 wild buckler (25,000 gp)</strike> (taken by Aegela)
* sylvan scimitar (47,315 gp)
* +4 elven chainmail (21,150 gp)
* +3 returning icy starknife (72,000 gp)
* rod of the python (13,000 gp)
* staff of defense (62,000 gp)
* cloak of the bat (26,000 gp)
* bracers of armor +7 (49,000 gp)
* <strike>gem of seeing (75,000 gp)</strike> (taken by Aegela)
* mantle of faith (76,000 gp)

The party brought the lightning treant bark to Bokken, who rewarded them with a wand of barkskin (which he finished on the spot using the lightning treant bark). He also explained that treants that are struck by lightning become more powerful.

The party decided to head to Pitax as the only place where they could hope to move so much of such value. The party spent the night in Pitax.

'''{{Arodus}} 12th'''

The party spent the day searching Pitax for purveyors of magic items.

* The following items are available in Pitax:
* Ring of Force shield (8500 gp)
* +1 Breastplate (1350 gp)
* +3 Kama (18302 gp)
* <strike>Ring of Delayed doom (2 stones) (10000 gp)</strike>
* Sword of subtlety (22310 gp)
* +5 Hide armor (25165 gp)
* Manual of bodily health +5 (137500 gp)

The spending limits in Pitax are 137,500 gp. The base value is 27,500.

'''{{Arodus}} 13th'''

The party returned to the entrance to Thousandbreaths. They progressed to the mire, where they were deterred by the depth of the water and the presence of bright right unnatural leeches. They searched the area, they were able to find a teleport trap under the water. Beltashazzar dropped a boulder on it.

They continued to the Knurly House, where they encountered "Granny" the Knurly Witch, who parleyed with them for some time before the party attacked her. They eventually agreed to an exchange of information, question for question. She explained, among other things, that Nyrissa and Briar do not ''want'' to be reunited - Nyrissa doesn't want to restore her capacity for love, but rather to have a potent weapon. She asked Reem if he knew of his siblings (and implied that this gap in his knowledge was a substantial weakness), asked Makenna if she thought about "him" and if it hurt her ("every day" and "yes"). Tindalos asked what would happen if Nyrissa were forcefully reunited with her love, and the Knurly Witch said that she would fulfill her destiny and become the youngest of the Eldest. She further admitted to eating babies and offhandedly implied bad things for Tindalos' child.

The party attacked the witch, killing her invisible pet fey T-rex, but she was able to escape. They raided her house and found numerous valuable items including a hand of glory and a wand of good hope.

They discussed the possibility of destroying the Knurly House, but decided against it on the grounds that there was no pressing need to do so. They instead moved toward the troll's house, the Baleful Lantern, festooned with the heads of female humanoids which cast an eerie green light (determined to be a continual light spell). Makenna was able to find tracks from smilodons in the area, but no trace of them. The party searched the area and found nothing of value, then decided to burn the house to destroy it.

The party reconvened to a clearing nearby where they encountered a group of satyrs dancing and playing their pipes. The satyrs initially charmed Makenna and Beltashazzar, but the charm was broken through Deleksin's countersong. The satyrs tried to convince the party to go directly to Nyrissa to negotiate peace, but Deleksin saw through this without difficulty. The party left the area.

The party went to a secluded bricked in garden area, filled with fungi and bulbs of First World fruits. These they made an effort to harvest, acquiring several before huge swarms of Mandragora broke free from the ground and formed into two immense amalgam mandragora, which they slew.

The party continued to the waterfalls, where they found giant owlbear eggs and subsequently had to battle the mated pair that lived there. These they did not slay, but rather left without further molestation when Briar confirmed that the grove was not within Nyrissa's control.

The party went to Castle Darksky to rest and reconvene with Aegela. Tensions with the Hill Giants were rising. Also, Tindalos recommended that the remains of Ilthuliak be interred in the elephant graveyard.

'''{{Arodus}} 14th'''

The party approached the House at the Edge of Time with Aegela protecting the rear, where they were confronted by a Tarn Linnorm that they slew (Reem trusting his powerful saves to protect him). Reem was able to resist the curse. They then steeled themselves to confront Nyrissa in her own citadel.

The party was confronted by the Nightbird, Dovan of Nisroch (who died almost immediately) and two ghostly pirates, as well as a plant dragon of some sort. They defeat all these and noted an exceptionally tall tree that seems to go on forever.

Tindalos and Beltashazzar made their way up the tallest oak and found themselves in the endless arboretum. Nyrissa's voice boomed, "So you interlopers have finally decided to trespass in my domain. Now, you will all pay and I will reclaim what is mine." Briar confirmed that she heard the voice as well.

They found the stable of Dead Horses but were too creeped out to deal with it further once they realized that they were ambivalent. They moved across the crenelations and thorough the armory. They then found a collapsed passage and subsequently encountered Victor, who said that hope was not lost given that Tindalos was still alive. He recommended that Nyrissa could not be defeated simply by thrusting Briar into Deleksin's heart. He faded away leaving only a silver spindle ioun stone.
 
They searched the next door, where they found a plane shift portal, followed by a door leading to a stairway ascending to the second level.

Sending from Aegela: "I have defeated a satyr archer. I am trying to reason with him now." "We aren't doing anything urgent be there shortly."
Sending from Aegela: "I'm concerned that will keep me from reasoning with him. He seems intent on killing you by Nyrissa's orders." "We will let you handle it, then. Keep us posted on further developments."

The party then encountered their corpses. Makenna's corpse was decapitated, Reem was faded and dead, Deleksin was torn in half and Tindalos appeared to have simply succumbed to wounds. They discussed the possibility of resurrecting them or using Speak With Dead on them.

A goblin dressed as a maitre de approached them. The goblin asked if they were the models. It turned out the bodies were cakes. Tindalos' flavor was lemon-curd and Reem was bitter almond. They disappeared and the party went into the next room, which was a drawing room full of sinister whispers. From there, to a slop banquet, then to a room with a dancing bear (which seemed to reek of Evocation Magic). They also found a telescope.

The party proceeded to a throne room where they encountered an angel who insisted that they were controverting the will of Desna and Saranerae. Reem saw through the Angel's bluff (made under duress), and the Worm the Walks revealed itself. They battled it and slew it, noting, for just a moment, that it included Tartuk. They found a number of magic item,, including a staff of Transmutation and a portable hole full of spellbooks which they used to also pick up the telescope.

The party opened the door toward the entrance and came upon a phantom feast and a statue of Nyrissa draped in a ''poisonous cloak'', which the party took and put in the ''bag of holding''.

They continued and fought a group of ghosts who were preparing bizzare varieties of dishes. They defeated them and took casks of serpent's venom, Dwarven whiskey (aged 10 years), Elven red wine (aged 16 years), and aether drippings (aged 1065).

The party made their way through the servant's wing, where they found it all eerily abandoned, until they came to the basement, where they confronted the Knurly Witch and a hideous vulture demon. Makenna charged in, shrugging off spells, and struck the witch. They defeated the Vrock and the witch, and looted her many, many potions.

They entered a library and found a water mephit who identified itself as Pludock. Pludock didn't want to talk to them, answering every question with, "I'd better not say," but eventually suggested that they give him Briar. He admitted, though that the northern chamber was a ruined bathhouse, populated with two water elementals, an air elemental and a fire elemental, all of whom appeared to be in a state of deep suffering. They were all slain. Pludock was informed and had little to nothing to say (though, regarding destroying Nyrissa, he suggested they give it "The Old College Try").

They go up the traditional staircase in the Northeast, and listened at the door, listening to two mostly whispering Osirion men speaking of the value of various trade goods. Some, such as "Nymph's milk" are worth absurd amounts (8000gp), while slaves (Katapeshi, warriors, some training) are a mere 150gp. Reem stepped away from the door and listened at a northern door, wherein he heard nothing. Behind another of the doors, soft snoring was heard, and behind yet another, someone playing finger exercises on a lute.

The party pushed their way into the attic, where they fought long and hard with three devourers. They defeated them, noting that when they fled back down the stairs, the creatures did not attempt to follow them. Reem was able to liberate all the souls and the party slew them, leaving behind benign demon bones and black ichor.

'''{{Arodus}} 15th'''

The party continued on through Nyrissa's home. They found two identical rooms containing notes, apparently from Osirion traders eager to establish fruitful (and exclusive) trade with the nation of "Thousandvoices." They then progressed to a great meeting hall where two barbtongued wyverns nearly slew Reem before being defeated.

They progressed to the west, where they encountered a group of blighted nymphs who gyred danced and eventually attacked. They sang a nonsense song:

<poem>I'm an indigo bunting
A player
A curse-free life of sin
On my way to go hunting
Soothsayer
My way you follow in

The householder lady
Is hiding
She's playing not to seek
She's away for tomorrow
Residing
In yesterday next week

Shied away from the nightmares
And daymares
And lasting glory sought
And the ending's beginning
The lair
The fable will be fought</poem>

They fought and slew these wretched creatures and Makenna was nearly slain. Afterwards, they looted the surrounding area, finding in the (now badly burned) parlor a single enchanted Harrow Deck, a great many dresses (one of them a ''robe of stars'' that Reem put on, despite its scandalous and decidedly feminine design. They also found a great deal of assorted gris-gris for making magic items, many drawings (most anatomical drawings of First World creatures, although some were reproductions of _Zuddiger's Picnic_), miniature instruments (including among them ''a horn of blasting'').

The party found the Jabberwock's "nest," which contained several magic items and a substantial amount of gold (in addition to some mundane treasure, including a pig shaped coffin full of platinum coins in small insets, 999pp with one empty slot, as well as a gold decanter with a ruby stopper, and a vase made of jade shaped like a castle with a silver serpent coiling around it).

The party also explored a servant's wing, where they found a ''manual of exercise +3'' which Makenna suggested they stop to use, but the party eventually decided against this. They moved upstairs, where they found a maze filled with broken stone statues. A medusa of saurian make confronted them, transforming Deleksin temporarily into a statue (with ''Briar'' transforming him back). The party piled on and defeated the Medusa before she destroyed them.

They progressed on, with the party reaching Nyrissa's library (which was impressive and contained a partially complete ''manual of Jabberwock creation''.

They progressed into Nyrissa's chamber, where they entered The Fable and confronted Nyrissa. They activated Deleksin's ''heart of stone'', which absorbed Briar's personality and split off. They found themselves in The Open Field of The Fable, where they battled Nyrissa. They managed to force her heart into her, causing her extreme damage and nearly combining them. Unfortunately, she was able to quickly heal and teleport a distance away. When the party closed with her, she performed this trick again, and when Makenna dealt her what should have been a killing blow, Nyrissa recovered almost instantly. Eventually, though, Tindalos was able to corner her and force the heart back into her.

The defeated Nyrissa began to stream bright white light from he eyes, ears, mouth and wounds. She then went from verdant green to autumnal colors and faded to brown before crumbling. Her heart fell into the pool in her house and began to grow into a sapling. She informed the party the ''Briar'' was no more, and now Nyrissa, made whole, would work to undo the great damage that she had done during her madness, but for now she would have to rest. She returned the House at the Edge of Time to the First World, leaving behind only the ruins of the Castle of Knives.

The party returned to Castle Darksky, secure in the knowledge that the Stolen Lands would finally know peace. Makenna gave Kressle several of the fine dresses, then sold the rest for the good of the kingdom.

The party gave Kob Moleg orders to go and liberate Restov, paying him a substantial amount to do so; he and his forces, combined with Restov's forces in a pincer attack, were able to squarely liberate Restov from the siege (albeit, the mammoth riders dealt substantial damage to the western walls of Restov in the process. Forces from Brevoy assembled to retaliate, and it looked as though there would be a fearsome war to determine the fate of Restov, when the House Rogarvians reemerged from Skywatch with their reborn champion: Choral the Conquerer, emerging as a fortress-sized red dragon.

The party constructed a refugee city to house the inhabitants of Restov, knowing that things might get very ugly very quickly.

Horrified, his royal majesty Noleski Surtova offered the dragon a test to prove himself: if he could reconquer the Stolen Lands, once again proving himself to be a great conqueror. The battle between Choral and the party would be a story for another day, however.

==Epilogue==

Aegela stayed true to her word and agreed to serve Makenna for 10 years after, although the two of them being true friends knew that it was not that bond of honor that made them work so well together, but the loyalty and companionship they shared. Eventually Taj returned, having achieved some degree of acclaim, but found himself still barely nipping at the heels of Makenna's accomplishments. Even so, Taj decided that he would profess his deep respect and affection for Makenna. The two became lovers, but held to the traditions of their tribe, never marrying (despite Kressle's occasional gentle, and somewhat humorous, nagging).

Tindalos and Kressle raised their strange and precocious child together. Victor grew at an astounding rate, reaching young adulthood at age 6, then leveling out to an apparently normal rate of maturity. Though they made efforts to shield him from the ugliest of prejudice from the outside world, Victor knew he was different, and came to believe that he was destined for great things. Tindalos' family in Kyonin wrote to him occasionally, but Tindalos had come to accept that they would never truly understand him. He grew more alien as time passed, growing ever more like his confidant Beltashazzar.

Reem's prophetic dream did not come true as he expected - indeed, it was hard to say it had come true at all. He pondered this, and eventually concluded that Prophecy remained lost to the world, only returning in sputtering flashes that were by no means the certainty that such powerful notions once bore. He contented himself in sewing seeds for the future he wished to see, tending to his orphans. At his orphanage, he ensured that the children were ever served flavorful dishes - never porridge. He and Baer reconciled, although they came to accept that they would never truly see eye to eye on religious matters.

Deleksin's muse had, in his mind, only ever grown more beautiful, more enticing and more distant since the events in the House at the Edge of Time. As days turned to weeks turned to months, Deleksin's waking world was more and more consumed of the beautiful echoes of Nyrissa. As time went on, he came to adore her more and more, wishing only to be wrapped in her gentleness. Perhaps one day she would return for him and take him to her deathless kingdom as her confidant and consort, and together they would seek the lost Count Ranalc, to reunite her with her True Love - for can there ever be a more noble cause than true love? 


==Footnotes==
<references />

[[Category:Kingmaker]] [[Category:Pathfinder]] [[Category:Adventure Log]]