Wardens of Heroes Gate

The Red Wizard at Old Owl Well

] The four of you, along with Dayni Serpayko and Sister Garaelle, left Conyberry a short while ago heading towards a ruin in the foothills of the Sword Mountains called Old Owl Well. You were told by Agatha the banshee of Neverwinter Wood, that there you would find a Red Wizard who is also seeking spellbook of Bowgentle. She suggested that, if you were wise mortals, you would take advantage of her gift to you and assasinate the necromancer before he has opportunity to kill you and many others. You plan to approach the well as if travelers on your way to the Triboar Tourneys – innocently watering your horses and watch for opportunity to take out the necromancer.

] As you are getting closer to the Old Owl Well, Sister Garaelle asks everyone to stop for a moment.

] Garaelle “I’ve been struggling to decide something. I received the vital information we were seeking from Auglathla. It must be kept from those who would use it for evil – at all costs. At the same time… it must not be lost… I must entrust the knowledge to at least a few others before we face any further dangers today. I wish Adalisi were here as she intended, but it is just us. I sense I can trust all of you not to willingly share this with the Red Wizards, or anyone else aside from Adalisi… but it is also a burden to carry… Red Wizards have… methods… of pulling information from the minds of others. You would be putting yourselves in potential danger by accepting this knowledge.”

Leely] “My sister and I are called to protect you and your mission. Danger is the mere cost of that call.”

Deynn] “Allow me to share your burden Garaelle – if you will.”

Roonoo] “I know the threat presented by these muck-snufflers. I understand you are asking that we do not allow ourselves to live to be probed if it comes to that, so I understand the burden you ask us to carry. I accept. ”

] Dayni “I already owe you my life Garaele – it is a small thing that you might be in need of it today.”

] Garaele “Before we move on then.” She looks around as if for the eyes and ears of others, but mostly to signal that this is the critical bit. “The spellbook of Bowgentle resides deep in a sunken city swallowed by the Sunset Mountains. This citadel once overlooked the Hartlands where  Iriaebor stands but today it is covered by the mountain itself. Agatha traded Bowgentles spellbook over a 100 years to a wizard named Tsernoth. She used the artifact Adalisi brought with you to scry into its location. It sits on a shelf with many other books near a Gulthias tree in the deepest depths of the sunken citadel. If I am unable, please be ensure that Adalisi is given these details?”

Leely] “We will first ensure you are able to tell her yourself.”

] You continue on several miles through sparse forest and rising elevations. Soon you see in the distance the crumbling ruin of a watchtower. It is past noon but not by much. The weather is warm and there have been waves of cool breeze flowing through the foothills from the West.

] Dayni “There.” She points. “That is the Old Owl Well.”

Deynn] “Ileel? Care to scout ahead? It seems you are gifted for the task.”

Ileel] Nalya and I go ahead for some reconn. [Stealth check]

(1d20) Stealth 16 +8 = 24 [Success]

] You see a stout, red-robed human with sickly skintone, a shaved scalp, and a black tattoo on his forehead. He has set up a small tent near the well and is currently securing a rope to a nearby tree trunk. Standing around him are 4 dog-headed beasts (gnolls), but they seem vacant. It takes you a second to realize that you can see through their furry flesh in parts – right to the bone and you realize these are undead servants. The human in the red robe begins dropping the rope down into the well.

Ileel] I think to myself “This is going to be easier than we thought…” then I race back to the others. “I think we have an opportunity. The necromancer is preparing to actually climb down into the well. All we have to do is cut the rope and throw some big stones in after him… job done. Oh… there are a few zombie beasts standing guard, but we can take them while one of us goes and cuts the rope.

] Dayni whips out a sharp blade “I will take care of the rope.”

Deynn] “Great. Lets get in place. Garaelle, you might want to hang back with the horses?”

] As the five of you approach the ruins, you catch sight of the red-robed wizard climbing up onto the well wall and lowering himself down.

Ileel] “Dayni – go around that way to where the rope is tied off. I will try to draw the undead over this way. You three, as soon as the rope is cut, start tossing some big stones down the well… there are lots laying around.” I circle around to the right and fire on the zombies (GZ01)

(2d20a Attack 20 [Crit] Dmg 5 +8 +5 = 18 +9 (force damage) = 27

] You release an arrow which strikes dead center into one of the beastly undead. You see Viffo’s Breath take affect and shove the Gnoll Zombie into the others before it collapsed into the corpse it was meant to be. They startle and look to see what happened. [()] 2 of them begin running in your direction Ileel. The 3rd keeps his protective stance.

[()]

] Dayni reaches where the rope is tied to a tree and slices thru it with little effort. It whips across the ground and disappears into the well.

Initiative Table

Leely] I charge into the well area and attack the remaining undead sentry. (GZ04)

(1d20) Attack 12 +7 = 19 [Hit] Dmg 5 +5 = 10

(1d20) Kick 19 +6 = 25 [Hit] Dmg 3 +4 = 7 +10 = 17

] Your straight sword spears through rotting leather and slices along the exposed spinal bones. You kick the stenchly beast back and away from you.

Ileel] I attack one of the onrushing zombies [GZ02] and then I run back, trying to draw them after me.

(1d20) Attack 9 +7 = 16 [Hit] Dmg 4 +5 = 9

[()]

] Your aim is accurate and strikes the zombie thru the head. The both of the continue to chase after you. [()] The Gnoll Zombie Leely just attacked retaliates, biting at you twice – the second time successfully. You take 6 dmg from the rotting teeth.

Deynn] I grab the largest stone I can find close by and drop it down the well.

] It takes a moment but from the darkness below you hear a splash as the stone finds the water level. Dayni runs over to help Leely. [(0] She cuts into the neck of the rot walker and jumps back as its head rolls.

Roonoo] I also start throwing stones down the well

] You hear a distant splash but nothing else.

[()]

] The two zombies continue to chase after Ileel but they move far too slowly to catch up.

Leely] I check on my sister and see she is just playing with her pursuers… so I grab a stone and drop it down the well to hit the necromantic dretch.

] As you are watching the stone fall into darkness, suddenly there is a brilliant flash of red and orange from the depths. The ground rumbles around the well. It repeats again, and twice again, then stops.

Leely] “What was that?”

Roonoo] “First guess… nothing good!”

Ileel] I yell to the others as I circle back around the well area. “Incoming!” Then I dash in that direction to put plenty of distance between me and the rotty dogs. I turn and fire at the lead. [GZ03]

(1d20) Attack 15 +7 = 22 [Hit] 5 +5 = 10 +10(force) = 20

] The arrow knocks the running zombie backwards 5 feet. The beast falls prone. The other continues to run towards all of you and is now 20 ft away.

Deynn] I run and jump kick to attack the one still giving chase [GZ02]

(1d20) Attack 16 +7 = 23 [Hit] Dmg 2 +7 = 9

(1d20) Attack 7 +7 = 14 [Hit] Dmg 2 +7 = 9

[()]

] You feel the rotting bones of the Gnoll Zombie crush behind your blows. It stalls as if it will drop and then revives. Dayni comes up behind it [()] and removes its head.

Roonoo] “That should have been grosser than it was. We better burn them just to be on the safe side.”

] You all hear a scratching, skittering sound coming from the well.

Leely] “What now?” I go to look at what is making the sound.

] Before you get back to the well, three reptilian skeletons emerge. They have a scaly hide hanging loosely over bare bones. Half a moment later, the most potent, horrifying smell you have ever exerperienced threatens to overwhelm you. [Con Save]

Leely]

(1d20) Con Save 1 [Fail]

Ileel]

(1d20) Con Save 4 [Fail]

Deynn]

(1d20) Con Save 15 [Success]

Roonoo]

(1d20) Con Save 1 [Fail]

] Three of you immediately begin gagging and choking. You are poisoned (2d4+4 = 9 seconds – 2 rounds)

Initiative Table

Leely] “Ahck! What… is… that… stench!?” I try to fend of these new undead attackers [TS01]

(2d20d) Attack 2 +7 = 9  [Miss]

(2d20d) Kick 7 +7 = 14 [Hit] Dmg 2 +4 = 6

Ileel] “What are these bone monsters!?” I fire at another skelly [TS02]

(2d20d) Attack 10 +7 = 17 [Hit] Dmg 7 +5 = 12 [MassiveDmg 1]

Deynn] “Long-dead lizard men. I guess we missed the necromancer.” I attack the third [TS03]

(1d20) Attack 13 +7 = 20 [Hit] Dmg 3 +7 = 10 [MassiveDmg 5]

(1d20) Attack 5 +7 = 12 [Hit] Dmg 3 +7 = 10

] Dayni attempts to assist Leely [()] but the thick smell in the air is burning her eyes and she does not even come close with her blades. Leely, you are under attack [()] a bite and a swipe miss you you but a follow-up swipe draws blood (3 damage). The other standing skeleton attacks Deynn [()] and you take 4 damage from an ancient jaw of ancient teeth.

Roonoo] “Scrag Spit! I see why you two hate the undead so much!” I block the thing attacking Leely and attack [[TS03]

(2d20d) Attack 13 +7 = 20 [Hit] Dmg 8 +7 = 15

] A Gnoll with an arrow thru its head attacks Leely from behind with its teeth [()] successfully, critically doing 12 damage. More undead crawl out of the well, two reptile skeletons like the others and the third more like a dog in shape. It also has a scaly outer-skin that is barely attached along its spine.

Leely] “Arrgh!” I turn and stab at the dead dogman [GZ03]

(2d20d) Attack 4 +7 = 11 [Hit] Dmg 2 +5 = 7

] Your blade stops the rot walker. It hesitates a moment [()] then drops into a pile.

Leely] Flurry of kicks against the oncoming scaly dog thing [Durzog01]

(2d20d) Attack 4 +6 = 10 [Miss]

(2d20d) Attack 3 +6 = 9 [Miss]

Ileel] I look for a blind nearby [Perception Check]

(1d20) Perception 3 +5 = 8

] You do not quickly spot anything ideal for a sniping blind but you see a stone wall that would provide you 3/4 cover

Ileel] I move to cover and fire on the new enemies [TS04]

(2d20d) Attack 9 +5 = 14 [Hit] 3 +5 = 8 +10 (Force) 18

] The reptile skelly is blown backwards and its bones scattered across the ruins.

Deynn] I go after the reptile dog with a double snap kick

(1d20) Attack 16 +7 = 23 [Hit] Dmg 1 +7 = 8

(1d20) Attack 19 +7 = 26 [Hit] Dmg 3 +7 = 10

] The beast breaks in two as you deliver two devasting kicks. Dayni goes after the remaining skeleton from behind [TS05] and tears it to shreds with her blades.  Three more undead crawl out of the well.

Initiative Table

Roonoo] “More of them!”

Quick Combat Round Table

Leely] 2d6 1|1 (Dmg 3)

Ileel] 2d6 3|5 (Dmg 6)

Deynn] 2d6 1|3 (Dmg 6)

Roonoo] 2d6 2|5 (Dmg 5)

] One Troglodyte Skeleton remains, four more appear from the well (5 total)

Leely] 2d6 4|6

Ileel] 2d6 5|6

Deynn] 2d6 3|3 (Dmg 3)

Roonoo] 2d6 2|3 (Dmg 4)

] Three Troglodyte Skeletons remain, four more appear from the well (7 total)

Leely] 2d6 5|6

Ileel] 2d6 2|6 (Dmg 5)

Deynn] 2d6 3|6 (Dmg 4)

Roonoo] 2d6 2|6 (Dmg 3)

] Three Troglodyte Skeletons remain, six more appear from the well (9 total)

Leely] 2d6 4|6

Ileel] 2d6 6|6 (x2)

Deynn] 2d6 3|3 (Dmg 4)

Roonoo] 2d6 1|6 (Dmg 5)

] Five Troglodyte Skeletons remain, six more appear from the well (11 total)

Leely] 2d6 2|6 (Dmg 4)

Ileel] 2d6 1|3 (Dmg 5)

Deynn] 2d6 4|6

Roonoo] 2d6 1|4 (Dmg 6)

] Eight Troglodyte Skeletons remain, six more appear from the well (14 total)

Leely] “How many corpses are down there!?! We are being over run!” I remember the stone amulate I have around my neck. This seems dire enough to call upon the Spirit Guardians.

] Directly above your head a thick vertical beam of brilliant white light appears. Out of the beam fly ghostly figures, all resembling wood elves. Some on foot, running across the air, others on majestic mounts… a mighty elk bears a naked rider, a group of horses charge with their wood elf riders. The spirits whirl around you, extending out from you for 20 feet. [()] All of the undead take critical radiant damage and fall to the ground in piles of bones. Several more reptilian skeletons appear from the well and meet the same fate as they enter into the protective circle before it vanishes from above you.

] Dayni “What the Nine Hells was that!?!”

Leely] “I am equally impressed. This magic was a gift from a stranger in the High Forest – well, a stranger I now call friend.”

] Dayni “I thought it was time to leave hope behind… but then… wow!”

Ileel] “That really was quite the gift. None of the undead stood any chance against it.”

Leely] “They are, I think, our true ancestors… and I felt they share our despise for necromancy.”

Deynn] “Our necromancer below seems to have run out of power for now. The next question is… what do we do about him?”

Roonoo] “It seems obvious he is no longer in the actual well. He must have found a graveyard, or something, in the depths beneath this place. He did prove himself quite powerful… how many bones did he raise? I was unsure about trying to kill him, but he is indeed a threat to many.”

Ileel] “Seemed a simple plan… but it failed. We don’t have time to correct that right now.”

Deynn] “Agreed. We return to Phandalin then?”

] Dayni “Should we risk hanging around here long enough to poke thru the Red Wizards tent? See what we can learn? And gain for our troubles?”

Ileel] “I will need a few minutes to ensure these corpses are never risen again.” I use Death Touch to reduce all of the rotting flesh and bones to dust.

Roonoo] “There is something I’ve never seen in my years. How… why… well I suppose my answers are obvious.” I lean over to Leely and quietly say “Can she do that to the living? Just dissolve them with a touch?”

Leely] “No, only corpses. The two of us were blessed by the Wild Queen.” I touch the circlet embedded in my forehead. “These crowns were given to us on the very day of our birth… we have yet to see fully what powers Mieliki put within them. My sword and Ileel’s bow were fashioned for us specifically – they have enchantments from our circlets. Aylan is from my blessing as well, just as Nalya is from Ileel’s.”

Roonoo] “I wondered about your beasts… I wondered how it is they seem to just appear.”

Leely] “Oh! Easy… I just call him. Aylan!”

] A giant Dire Wolf, pure white in color, walks up beside Leely, as if he had been standing right behind her the whole time.

Leely] I pet Alyan. “He has been with me since I could only crawl.”

Roonoo] “Beautiful beast that is. I hope he knows your friends from your foes.”

Leely] “I’m quite certain he does. Not that he could hurt you though. He is… well… I don’t know the word… but he is like… not exactly like… but kind of like a ghost… here – see for your self – try to pet Alyan.”

Roonoo] I reach out hesitantly but with a nice smile on my face to touch the white beast.

] Your hand goes right through Aylan.

Roonoo] “So only you can feel him?”

Leely] “Ileel can too, and I can feel Nalya. But so far… no one else has been able to. Aylan protects me still, even if he cannot bite monsters.”

] Within the tent of Hamun Kost, you find some basic supplies along a cot. Within the tent is also a small writing desk and a chair. There is a leather satchel full of papers written in a language you do not recognize. There is also a small chest that contains 80gp worth of coins, 3 healing potions (4d4+4) and a pouch with various gems (~400gp worth). You also find a tiny jeweled box containing a ring. The box appears ancient, but the ring within looks like it has never been worn – not a scuff nor scratch on it. You also find a tube made of bone which contains several scrolls.

Deynn] “We may want to take all of the writings… if Khi-khi can read them, we may learn something valuable.”

] Dayni “At the least, we may hamper the Red Wizards efforts to make evil things happen.” she laughs

Deynn] I smile at Dayni “Killing him would have done a better job of that… but you are right… we if cannot destroy evil, we should do what we can to hamper it. I saw your bravery here Dayni. You did not flinch in the face of all those undead surrounding us… I’m quite certain you would have seen fear on my face.”

] Dayni “I doubt that… A face like yours? You inspire confidence… among other… things… good things… That is. Your facial features and color… I cannot say I’ve seen their like. Where are your forefathers from?”

Deynn] “My mother is Payit – from the returned land of Maztica. My father is… well I don’t exactly know really. He is in Turmish… Nonthal I believe… but he is full elf. My mother is half-elf like me. What about you? Your features are also quite exotic… if I can say it. Where do you hail from?”

] Dayni “Not too far from Turmish actually… Sembia – just across the Fallen Stars. My mother  is Teu-tel-quessir. My blood father was from Koryo in Kara-Tur, or so my mother has told me.”

Deynn] “Your sister… she has a different father?”

] Dayni “Yes, Jarvey Serpayko is Sembian. Kind man, unless you stand between him and another coin. I did not have want while in his house. He even gave me his name – though I suspect my mother insisted…”

Deynn] “We are both a good distance from home and right in between our blood nations – mine to the far west and yours to the far east. I wonder what else we might have in common.”

] Dayni “You mean besides the sound of our names?” she smiles.

] Nine hours later you reach the Stonehill Inn and after a quick meal from the stew pot left to simmer, you go to find sleep. Day 11 of Mirtul arrives quietly.

] When you come back down to the common room in the morning, Sildar and Gundren are at a long table and wave you over.

] Sildar “You have returned safely. We are glad to see it. The whole town will be glad to see you… we spread word around that the Redbrands were put down by the five you. We already redistributed the coin as fairly as possible among the villagers… some probably came out ahead… but everyone was pleased that you choose to return their wealth.”

] Gundren “Rare thing that… adventurers giving found-gold back to them that’s lost it. Rare thing indeed.”

Deynn] “Have you learned anything more about L’Khifrey’s father?”

] Sildar “Not yet, no. I’m trying to puzzle out why the shapeshifter would use his form to lead the Redbrands.”

Ileel] “It is possible Iarno was the actual leader? Replaced?”

] Sildar “Possible, yes. Perhaps even likely… but it does not fit with the man that I know – nor with Khi-khi’s reckoning of him. However she says he was changed by the death of Jaylonir. He was L’Khifrey’s husband until about a year ago. He was also being mentored by Iarno for a high rank in the Lord’s Alliance. I think Jaylonir was like a surrogate son to Iarno. When his daughter fell in love and married Jaylonir, I think Iarno had never been happier… and when it was found murdered a year ago, Iarno had never been more sad, or angry, or obsessed. Khi-khi said that her father spiraled down from the place of grief.”

Ileel] “Could the Redbrands have something to do with the death of Khi-khi’s husband then? Do they know who killed Jaylonir? ”

] Sildar “Sadly, his brother is suspected. He has been missing since the same night. If those events are somehow linked with Iarno coming to Phandalin, I cannot imagine how.”

] Gundren “King Grol talked of someone he called The Black Spider. Spoke like this Black Spider was the one actually interested in my maps. Like he was behind it all… the Cragmaws, the Redbrands… our capture… If that drow killer took my maps to this spider fellow, my brothers may be in great danger today.” He looks around the room and leans in to the table. “We found it…” he whispers. “We found… Wave Echo Cave.”

] Sildar “Chances are, that is exactly what all this is about. 500 hundred years ago, Phandalin was a booming town because of a particular mine somewhere in the Sword Mountains. That is fairly common knowledge… but this part is not… The ore pulled from this mine was unlike any other. It had wildly powerful capabilities. It was also powerfully dangerous. A special forge had to be created to work with the enchanted ore.”

] Gundren “We haven’t found the forge room yet… my brother have been there exploring the mine for it… but we are almost certain we have the right location.”

Roonoo] “How do you know?”

] Gundren “Its in the name… legends call the place Wave Echo Cave because it sounds like a giant wave crashing up against a rock wall. That is what we found, me and Nundro and Tharden… and it is something to hear let me tell you.”

Deynn] “You think this drow woman is leading the Black Spider to this mining cave?”

] Gundren “I’m certain of it. That is why I need your help.. And today. My brothers are in danger, and I’m not going to fight of this drow with my shovels.”

Deynn] “You said you think Koza… the other drow – the half-elf one- went after her?”

] Gundren “I’d bet my first and last cups on it. She had this burnin’ look in her eyes… She wanted that drow woman deader than dead.”

Appreciation & Collaboration

Wave Echo Cave

] You four left Phandalin early on horseback after gathering whatever supplies and rations you thought you might need to explore the lost mines. Gundren assured you that he could find his way back, even without his maps.  Sildar and Khi-khi both remained behind, each having pressing concerns to deal with. Dayni would not be left behind, but arrived in full leathers and a full pack. She asked Sister Garelle to provide blessings on the journey and she prayed over you. (4d4+4 Temporary HP and 1 Inspiration each). You headed East out of town into the Sword Mountains.You traveled roughly East-NE into the foothills for over four hours. Along the way, Leely started feeling ill… shakey and feverish…  inexplicably (1 level of Exhaustion). You decided to push on. Gundren had to double-back a few times but eventually found the small gulley which he says leads to the entrance they discovered.

] The channel you are following drops down between large rock formations and deeper into the mountain side. The air gets colder as the rock above your heads becomes the mountain itself. [()] While you are watching your steps over large shorn rocks, two large snake-like slugs drop down on your party. Leely is attacked by the strange beasts tentacles splaying out from its oversized mouth [()] but at the last second you manage to bend out of its swipe. [Con Save]

Leely]

1d20 Con 19 +0 = 19  [Success]

] Ileel is also attacked [()] and takes 7 damage. The Grick follows up with a strike with its beak which protruds grotesquely from its mouth [()] and hits you for another 3 damage

Leely] I draw my sword and release a full charge of light into it as I attack the thing which just tried to eat me (Grick01)

(2d20a) Attack 20 [Crit] Dmg 4 +8 +5 = 17 +7 (Radiant 1/3) 24 [Massive Dmg 1)

] As your blade lights with radiant light, the Gricks eyes, which are accostomed to darkness, are shocked, allowing you to plunge your blade up and into its most vulnerable spot. The creature squeals with a horrid sound and falls dead.

Leely] I leap and kick at the other slug (Grick02)

1d20 Kick 16 +6 = 22 [Hit] Dmg 2 +4 = 6

Roonoo] “Sparks Leely! I can’t wait to see what else you gots!” I attack the other grick

(1d20) Attack 13 +7 = 20 [Hit] Dmg 5 +7 = 12

(1d20) Kick 7 +6 = 13 [Miss]

Deynn] “Break my eyeballs! But wow!” I attack from flank position

(2d20a) Attack 20 [Crit] Dmg 1 +4 +7 = 12

] Three of you gang up on the remaining Grick and pound it to ground before it has a chance to attack again.

Ileel] “What are these things?” I begin dissolving the corpses…

Roonoo] “No idea… some kind of cave slug? You ever seen these things before Gundren?”

] Gundren “Can’t say we have – but there is a lot in these mines we ain’t seen yet.”

] After Ileel turns them into black dust, you continue forward into the mountain side. At one point you have to climb up a sheer rockfact about 10 feet, and then climb back down the other side, about 30 feet down. When you get to the bottom Gundren halts everyone.

] Gundren “Quiet a moment… listen here…” within 10 seconds you hear a faint echo from deep within the mountain. “There… hear that? Now wait again…” another 17 seconds go by and the sound repeats. “17 seconds… we sat here a long time trying to figure it out… however it happens, it is consistent at 17 seconds. Tharden was the one to first reckon what we found. Once we get closer, you will hear… it sounds like a giant wave crashing up against cliff wall. It has to be the where the Forge of Spells lies hidden.”

] Several hundred feet further and the ceiling opens up. You are in a large cavern supported by a natural pillar of rock and containing three stalagmints. In the the western part of the , behind the column of rock, are three bedrolls and a heap of ordinary supplies… sacks of flour, bags of salt, casks of salted meat, lanterns, flasks of lamp oil, pickaxes, shovels and other such gear.

] Gundren calls out “Nundro!? Tharden!?” but there is no answer. “They are probably just exploring the mines out. This is where we’ve been camping out, storing supplies and getting ready to explore even deeper into the mines. There’s two ways from here – but we got to climb down to climb up.” He points to the NE corner of the cavern where 30-40 section of the cavern is collapsed into a pit.

] A sturdy rope ladder is tied off around a nearby stalagmite and dangles down the side of the pit. Getting close to the edge you can see two rough-hewn tunnels – one heading east and other northwest. Looking down into the pit, you notice three bodies – two of which are large, orc-sized, and the third is smaller, dwarf-sized. When Gundren notices, you hear him start to stammer

] Grundren “N… no… no…! It can’t be!” He rushes down the rope ladder.

Deynn] “Ileel, perhaps you could keep watch from up here for a bit?”

Ileel] I notch an arrow and activate my Dark Mantle to shroud myself in shadow. “I’ve got you.”

] When the rest of you reach the bottom you see Gundren pulling the Dwarven corpse over.

] Gundren cries out “Tharden!”

Deynn] Judging from the presence of two dead orcs, it might be obvious but I look to see if I can tell how he died. “Leely, can you do that light thing? Over here? Lets see if we can determine what happened.” [Investigation Check]

Deynn]

1d20 Investigation 13 +1 = 14 [Success]

Leely] I cause my robes to glow with white light using Light Mantle.

] All three corpses look to be several days dead and the stench of decay is powerful close-up. One of the orcs has a black arrow stuck in him, broken off. The other orc has several wounds where an arrow was pulled from. Looking closer at Tharden, he also has had at least two arrows in his chest that were then pulled back out. Strangely, there is no blood around the arrow wounds.

Deynn] “Something is off here… look, all three corpses have had arrows in deep and then yanked back out. There is no blood around the wound. How could they all three be shot full of arrows and not bleed out?”

Roonoo] “I have one guess, but I don’t want to think it might be true.”

Deynn] I look around for the tail end of the broken arrow.

] Up against the rock crevice you find the feathered end of the broken arrow. The feathers are black with a purple hue… they seem familiar to you.

Deynn] “Look! This is the same kind of arrow Koza was using. I thought it was pretty unusual in color when I first saw them… I’m fairly confident Koza shot these orcs. She must be here in the mines.”

] Gundren “But Tharden has arrow wounds too? Does that mean the half-drow killed my brother?”

Deynn] “I don’t think so. Look at how long these bodies have been decaying. It was just three days ago Koza freed you from King Grol. Your brother has been dead longer than that. So have these orcs.”

Roonoo] “I still have one guess, and I still don’t want to think it…”

Leely] “Necromancy! Is that you mean to guess?”

Roonoo] “Aye girly. I’m sorry Gundren, but it looks like your brothers corpse was animated by dark magics.”

Ileel] “Before we move on, I can make certain that never happens again.”

] Gundren looks up at you “You mean you can dissolve him into dust? Like he never was? What about his burial? How do I…” he falls silent

Leely] “Ileel will honor your wishes Gundren. If you want to take Tharden’s body back for a memorial, we can help with that too.”

] Gundren “Yes, well… I need to ask Nundro. Nundro! We have to find him!”

Roonoo] “Which way should we go? East or North.”

] Gundren “We spent some time on the North side. There are a series of confusing tunnels… like the miners couldn’t decide which way to dig. Easy to get lost in em. We did not look on the East side before I left – that is where we should start.”

Roonoo] I look to see if I can read which tracks are the most recent [Survial check]

1d20 Survival 3 +5 = 8

] You see too many footprints to be able to tell which are more current than any others. Many tracks lead both ways. Both directions require a short climb of about 5 feet up to where the tunnel opening begins.

Roonoo] “East it is then.”

Leely] “We will find your brother Gundren.” I try to reassure as I leap up on to the ledge on the East side.

] As Ileel is getting ready to climb down into the pit, you all hear a pulsating hum. It seems to be coming through the rock itself rather from any particular direction. It produces a strange sensation in your ears for a moment and then stops.

Leely] “What is that? It hurts my ears.”

] Gundren “No idea. Never heard that in here before.”

] Dayni leaps back towards the rope ladder while drawing both daggers from her hips. “Look” she points with a blade toward the corpses. They are moving, standing… attacking.

Ileel] I fire at one of the Orcs. [ZO01]

Roonoo] “Moradin’s Beard!” I attack the orc which just got stuck by Ileel

] One of the Orc corpses barely gets to its feet before Ileel’s arrow drives into its torso and Roonoo’s Blackthorn cracks bones. It falls back down to the ground where Roonoo delivers a fateful stomp.

Leely] I consider my target briefly… The raised orc is likely the greater threat, but Gundren should never see his own brother this way. I decide to attack the corpse of Tharden.

] Your flexible steel blade enters into the walking corpse and drives straight up thru its neck and into the skull. Whatever magical energy reanimated Tharden, your attack destroys it. The remaining Orc attacks Deynn with a Greatclub [()] but misses.

Deynn] “I thought Orcs could not smell any worse!”

] Dayni appears suddenly behind the Zombie Orc and backstabs [()] to devastating affect.

] Gundren looks horrified “What… what just happened?”

Ileel] “Whatever that humming sound was… it must be some form of necromancy.”

Roonoo] “Never turn your back on a corpse… that’s what I say… from here forward anyhow.”

] Gundren “I have changed thinking… Ileel – you said you can make sure that never happens again?”

Ileel]  I climb down into the pit. “Yes I can. And then I will kill the necromancer who did it.” I use Death Touch on one of the orcs.

Leely] “We can still perform what rites your family would honor Tharden with… but being used as a puppet of necromancers is a great dishonor I feel.”

] Gundren “Yes, you are right. Please Ileel? And if I die here today – I would want the same.”

] Ileel finishes dissolving the corpses into black ash and you all enter the tunnel to the East. It opens up into a natural 30ft-high cavern. Several tunnels lead into this area. The walls are carved with simple reliefs showing dwarf and gnome miners hard at work. Half a dozen large brass lanterns stand in niches or on ledges around the cavern, but none are lit. Scattered on the ground are rusted swords and fragments of armor. From the tunnel on the South side of the cavern, many bare-boned skeletons, likely Dwarves and Gnomes, rattle into the cavern and attack your party.

Quick Combat Table

Deynn] 4 (Dmg 3+1 = 4 )

Roonoo] 4 (Dmg 1 +1 = 2 )

Leely] 6

Ileel] 6

] Dayni [()]

] The bones of the ancient miners are easily put down. They came from a short corridor which ends in a collapse of loose rock. On either side of the corridor there is a room.

Roonoo] I look into the room on the West side of the corridor

] (Area 4) Splintered stone benches and heaps of rubble from a partially collapsed ceiling fill this room. Amid ruined stone bunks and toppled weapon racks are remnants of guard uniforms and rusted weapons.

Roonoo] “Looks like this used to be the guards barracks. Not much here. Lets check the other room.”

] This chamber (Area 5) was once an office of some kind. A large stone counter bisects the room, set with three dusty balance scales made of iron. Cubbyholes carved into the rock of the north wall are stuffed with scraps of paper. Dayni explores the other side of the counter and pulls out a locked strongbox.

] Dayni “What might this be?” She shakes it. “Ahh… its heavy… and still locked. That is a  good sign. This won’t take a moment.”

] She produces a small leather wrap with picking tools. [()] Within seconds she flings the lid of the strongbox open. Within are several small bags of gemstones and a tray filled with various coins from a bygone age. In total there is approx 350gp worth in coin – perhaps more if any of it is considered collectible. The gemstones in the pouches include:

Coral (opaque crimson), 100gp ×3

Tourmaline ( pale blue), 100gp  ×2

Jade (translucent light green) 100gp  x1

Pearl (opaque lustrous white), 100gp ×2

Chrysoberyl (transparent pale green),100gp  ×2

Amber (transparent watery gold to rich gold) 100gp x1

Spinel (transparent red) 100gp x1

Jet (opaque deep black) 100gp  x1

Total Gem approx value 1300gp

] Dayni “I will split this among us all later.” And she disappears it all into her pack.

Leely] “Wow, coins from… how long ago did you say Gundren?”

] Gundren “500 years. At least that is what the history books say. This whole place, along with the town of Phandalin, was sacked nearly 500 years ago. These mines were quite special… the metal ore found here produced many powerful enchanted weapons – some of which are legendary and are still being wielded in the Realms. Sildar and his friend L’Khifrey were saying yesterday that a trip to Candlekeep was on their agenda… they think we could learn much more about Wave Echo Cave in the libraries held there.”

Deynn] “That explains why this Black Spider is willing to kill so many to find this place.”

Ileel] “I have to wonder if it was best left undiscovered…”

] Gundren “Folk have been searching for this place for 500 years… and folk can be brutal before the promise of great wealth. I agree with you Ileel… Once I knew what we discovered here, I also knew the trouble it would bring. That is why I went to Neverwinter and arranged to work with Sildar and the Lords Alliance – they are the strongest force of order and protection we have in these parts. If my brothers and I were going to keep any part of our find, we needed really strong help. But then…. Trouble came much more quickly that any would have thought.”

] Back in the main cavern, you see, in addition the way you entered, tunnels going North and East out of the area. The recurring boom of waves against rockwalls is much louder here and you can hear it echo from both the East and the North tunnels. Whoever is closest notices a faint green glow from the East tunnell.

Roonoo] “Do you see that? Something glowing down this corridor.”

Deynn] “Could be a bad glowing.”

Roonoo] I laugh “Could be a good glowing. If we don’t know which way to go, we don’t know the right way either… let’s check it out… quietly… carefully – of course.” [Stealth Check]

Roonoo]

1d20 Stealth 19 +4 = 23 [Success]

] The tunnel winds N-NE for about 50 feet and then opens up to a large cavern, larger by a bit than the one you first entered. The entire area glows deep florescent green. The light is coming from an overgrowth of weird fungus – it is everywhere, it carpets the floor and the walls. The growth includes puffballs a foot across, weird shelf fungus growing on stalagmites, and large stalks and caps a good five feet tall – all of it glows with an eeried green phosphorescence. The air is still and you notice a strong, sickly-sweet smell to the room. There are four Orcs on the far side of the cavern. They are all standing around a circle looking down at something on the ground… a body. You cannot see the face of whoever this is, but their clothing is familiar to you. On the ground between where you are at the entrance and the orcs you see a large ornate staff that appears to be made out of glass. The Orcs show no sign that they are aware of you yet. What do you do?

Deynn] I wave everyone back down the tunnel into the previous room. “I don’t think the glow was good… did you see the man on the ground? I think we know him.”

Leely] “I think I killed him. That is… I killed some thing that was pretending to be him.”

Roonoo] “Aye ya did. And I think the staff made of glass puts a bow on the assumption. That is L’Khifrey’s father in there. Think he’s still alive?”

Ileel] “Based on what we’ve seen so far… if he was dead, he would be walking around. I might guess it won’t be long until he is however. I don’t think we understand what has happened yet… it is weird that the Orcs are just standing around him, looking at him. ”

Deynn] “Weird is right. What say we try a pull and pound… Ileel – are you willing to pull the Orcs down into this room? You should have a good shot at them without actually entering the room right?” I say to the black spot in the room which just spoke.

Ileel] “Good.” I start back down the tunnel… “Ready? Be right back with some Orcs in tow.” I go to where I can get a sight on one of the Orcs and fire on the closest. (ZO01)

] Your arrow strikes with Viffo’s Breath and the Zombie Orc is thrown forward, falling over the body of Iarno Albrek. The other three Orcs appear as though they do not understand what just happened – they move in to look closer at the fallen Orc, given you time to fire another.

Ileel] I fire another at a standing Orc (ZO02)

] Viffo’s Breath again accompanies your arrow, knocking the Zombie Orc into another as it falls prone. It lands on one of the fungus pods and it spews a fine dust high into the air. This time the attack makes more sense to them – two Zombie Orcs begin running your way.

Ileel] I Dash ahead so I can position myself for another shot just before the enter the ambush. I run past the others then turn and kneel and ready to fire.

] Two Zombie Orcs with Greatclubs are far behind. You soon seem them in the tunnel.

Ileel] “Here they come.” I attack (ZO03)

] The Orcs run into the large mine entry area unaware of your ambush. The lead takes an arrow which strikes a shoulder and appears to spin it around with a shove.

Leely] I attack the one my sister just shot (ZO03)

[()]

] The Zombie Orc freezes for a moment as your blade snakes into it, then it rallies back to undeath.

Leely]

[()]

] The undead orc staggers again, and this time falls as a lifeless corpse is supposed to.

Deynn] I attack the other

Roonoo] As do I

] You spin into an attacking frenzy, striking from behind with your Blackthorn and then using the momentum to throw your full weight into a roundhouse kick which breaks the spine of the walking corpses. It folds and then falls. Another Zombie Orc comes running down the tunnel, followed a few seconds later by the fourth.

Ileel] I fire on the next

[()]

] Viffo’s Breath is favoring you today. The Zombie Orc (ZO02) is blown back and fails to rally against the strike. Dayni attacks the final [()] successfully. She carves up the orc (ZO01) [()] but it refuses to return to the dead. It turns on her and attacks with its Greatclub [()] but Dayni dodges and rolls out of its reach. The rest of you gang up on the enchanted corpse and beat the magic out of it.

Ileel] I use Death Touch as quickly as I can on each so they do not return on us.

Deynn] “I am going to pull Khi-khi’s father out. Hopefully he is still alive.”

Ileel] “Do not dally… that fungus spews into the air – it is bound to be poison”

Deynn] “Thanks for the warning, I will be quick.” I run into the room and try to pick up Iarno and carry him back out. [Con Save]

] Iarno does not weigh an excessive amount and you manage to lift him over your shoulder while holding your breath against the fungus filling the room.

Deynn] As I return towards the corridor, I decide to kick the glass staff into the corner out of sight. I carry Iarno back into the main entry chamber and lay him down.

Leely] “Is he still alive?”

Deynn] “I am not certain.” I lay him down and then fish out the Goodberry Stone from my pocket. I speak the command word  “Ela Mir”

] Ten small berries appear in your hand.

Deynn] I place one of the berries in his mouth and try to get him to swallow it.

] Iarno stirs but slightly. You give him a few more berries and eventually his opens his eyes and stares into the stone ceiling.

Deynn] “Iarno Albrek! Are you with us man?”

Leely] I point the tip of my sword towards him. “I don’t have to kill you again do I?”

] Iarno sits up and looks around at all of you. “I thought I was already dead. Thank you for helping me… but why did you? And how do you know my name?”

Roonoo] “Your daughter L’Khifrey is a friend. She has been quite worried about you.”

Leely] “And I am quite worried that you really are the Redbrand leader. Convince me otherwise.”

] Iarno “I am Glasstaff and I did start the Redbrands in Phandalin. I had to get close to the Black Spider, I had to do the work he ordered and gain his trust so that I could kill him.”

Deynn]  I hand him the rest of the Goodberries… “Here Eat the rest of these. Now… Who is this Black Spider?”

] Iarno “He is a drow from Menzoberranzan. He killed Khi-khi’s husband, or ordered him killed. I’ve spent the last year tracking him down, entering into his organization so I could get close. He is somewhere in these mines… I followed him here. If you are friends of Khi-khi, help me find him and kill him.”

] Gundren “He killed my brother. I would have him dead as well.” he says looking around at the rest of you. “Aside from revenge, however, we cannot let this Black Spider gain control of the Spell Forge – it holds the promise of great power. It needs to be kept from villians. This is why I brought Sildar into this.”

] Iarno “Sildar is here too? Does he know of my… involvement?” he says as he attempts to stand up.

Deynn] “He suspects, though he could not understand why.”

Deynn] “We will stop this Black Spider. If that means killing him, fine, but it is not my first choice. We are not assassins.”

Ileel] “I feel the need to remind you and everyone… we have a lot of corpses strolling around this place… I have to assume the Black Spider is the necromancer responsible. And where did these Zombie Orcs come from? They were not here before and have only been dead a few days. And how many more are there in these tunnels? On our way to Phandalin, we watched a necromancer massacre an entire village and then steal their corpses away… what if this Black Spider somehow stole an entire tribe of orcs?”

Roonoo] “That is a frightening thought… As with the Red Wizard at the well – some evil must need be destroyed if good shall survive.”

] Iarno “There are Red Wizards involved too? Dear Maiden preserve us! And Khi-khi… please tell me she is safe? Where is she?”

Roonoo] “She is safe and with Sildar in Phandalin. She is a tough one… she helped us clear out the Redbrands from Tresendar Manor… along with a shapeshifter who was pretending to be you.”

] Iarno “Vhalak. A doppleganger sent to keep tabs on me. It is dead?”

Leely] “Quite dead. As will this Black Spider be once we get moving. I’m not feeling so well… and I want this task done so I can find a soft pillow for a day or two.”

] As you continue up the North corridor from the main entry you find an intersecting corridor running East and West. Straight ahead is room with a stone door on iron hinges.

Deynn] “Gundren?”

] Gundren “I say we go left.”

] After less than 50 feet, the corridor straight ahead is collapsed. There is a tunnel on the North side of the corridor. The boom of the waves is much louder in that direction. As you continue North about 20 feet, there is an open door leading to room on the Eastern side. The room is empty and partially collapsed on the East side. There is another door on the North wall of this room. It is closed.

Deynn] “Worth checking out?” I go see if I can open the door.

] Dayni “Don’t you worry these things might be trapped?”

Roonoo] “She has a point Deynn… be careful.”

] The door opens surprisingly easy. Inside the small square space are dozens of barrels. Most cracked open and empty. A moment later you sense movement inside the barrels and dozens of rat corpses and skeletons flood out from the storage space and swarm around you, hungry for fresh meat.

Deynn] “Look out! Rats!”

Leely] “Not more rats! Why does it always have to be rats!?” [Con Save]

Leely] I start kicking at the tiny skeletons

Deynn] “Fire! We need fire!” I suddenly remember I have the fire capabilities of the Salamander Dagger.

Ileel] “Leely! Use that club you found!” I also kick away

Roonoo] “What in oblivion? … necromantic vermin?!”

] Dayni is swiping at the gnawing rat corpses with her daggers [()] scattering the swarm for a moment before it swells back together. [()] You all 1d6 piercing damage from the tiny rotting teeth. You continue to kick, smash and stomp until whatever magical energy animated them is expended.

Deynn] I light a torch “Pile up the bones, we have to burn them.”

Roonoo] I grab wood from the barrels in the storage room and arrange it so the fire will burn rat bones.

] After a few minutes, all of the tiny corpses are in the process of destruction, never to gnaw again.

Leely] “‘Let’s check in here!’ he says… ”

Ileel] “I find it hard to believe anyone would intentionally use necromancy on a bunch of dead rats… that can only mean that whatever magic is being used, it does not discriminate… which means, I think, that it is unusually powerful.”

] Iarno “The talking shadow is correct, whatever it is, it is unusually powerful. I heard a strange humming noise earlier and then watched as orcs I had just felled, suddenly get back up. It was like a beacon went out from somewhere in the mines and just raised all the dead. I’ve never heard of magic so powerful.”

Ileel] “Could it be this Black Spider?”

] Iarno “Likely yes… or someone working with him… or something he controls. It could be an artifact with a powerful enchantment.”

Deynn] “There is no telling how many corpses these mines have been holding. If even the rats are raised by this magic… we may be in over our heads.”

Leely] “We should definitely be more careful about our steps forward. Ileel, care to scout ahead for us again?”

Ileel] “On my way.” I continue North thru the corridor as quietly as possible with my Dark Shroud still active [Stealth Check with advantage]

] The long corridor opens up into a great cavern. It appears to have once been a banquet room or mead hall. Steep escarpments divide the area into three sections – high ledges at either end and a lower section in the middle. Carved stone stairs climb up to the ledges. Two large stone tables stand in the middle section, along with a pair of old braziers. A smaller stone table stands on the eastern ledge. You see two exits, one corridor leads directly North out of the main area of cavernous room, and a second leads North from the ledge on the eastern side. The skeletal remains of dozens of dead warriors – dwarves, gnomes, orcs and ogres – all stand idle in the main section as if waiting for something. You also see several other frightening creatures on the western ledge – not animated bones – not fresh orc corpses – but something like a nightmare brought to life. Their eyes glow faintly, unnaturally in the dark recesses of the cavern. You also notice a faint aura from something on one of the stone tables in the midst of all the risen bones, but without a much closer look you cannot tell what it is.

Ileel] I return to the group. “Uh… we won’t be going that way.” I relay what I saw.

Roonoo] “We go around then. If we can… or we fight thru.”

Deynn] “A swarm of skelly rats is one thing… but a swarm of ancient dead orcs and dwarves? I don’t think it wise.”

Ileel] “Why are so many gathered in one room? It is possible they were all just there for hundreds of years… or maybe something has drawn them into the hall. I have to wonder about the glowing I saw on the table… what if this is the artifact Iarno suspects is powering all of the undead here?”

Leely] “Maybe we can just destroy it?”

] Iarno “Perhaps. It might not be possible to destroy it… not easily… Assuming it is such an artifact, it would seem to have some limited span of influence. Maybe we can find a very deep hole to drop it down.”

Roonoo] “I might have an idea… How large is this artifact Ileel? Would it fit into a large-sized coin pouch? For example…”

Ileel] “I did not get a good look at it but yeah, my impression it was size of… um… the size of the flagon you were drinking out of nightbefore. A bit smaller in fact.”

Roonoo] “That will work. Now… we need to either get the artifact to me, or me to the artifact without a swarm of skelly’s on my back. I can drop it into a very very deep hole, far far away. If you don’t need to ask my how…”

Leely] “I will lead them away. Ileel – tell me about any exits on the far side of this mead hall?”

Ileel] “There were two that I saw, one corridor leading directly North out of the main room, and a second leads North from the ledge on the eastern side. There are over 30 undead in there, maybe closer to 40.. Plus I have no idea what the creep things on the western ledge actually are. You might take a dozen hits trying to navigate through their ranks.”

Deynn] “Maybe one of us can draw them back this way, into the entry area. The rest of us can duck out of sight in the storage room.”

Leely] “I am willing to try. If I get their attention with full brightness, maybe I can get far enough ahead of them to hide in darkness.”

] Iarno “I have a better idea… maybe… If you draw them back to the entry chamber, I can cast a light spell for them to chase beyond that – into the fungus room for example.”

Leely] “Lets do it then. Everyone ready?” I want to surprise the skelllys so I turn off my Light Mantle and sneak into the dining chamber a little ways. [Stealth Check]

Leely] I enable Light Shroud as bright as possible and turn to run back down the tunnel to where Iarno is waiting where I close my light.

[()]

] The mass of skeletal undead give chase. Those hiding in the storage room can hear dozens upon dozens of bone-feet clapping against the rock floor. When you reach Iarno he casts Dancing Lights in the slight form of a humanoid and gives it the impression of a running figure down the corridor into the fungus room [()] The skeletons are unable to see through the deception and within seconds they have all raced down the tunnel.

Deynn] We go into the hall cavern, ready to protect Roonoo while he does his thing.

] As you enter, the main room is empty of undead. On the eastern ledge, however, you see six ghouls. They all leap down the escarpment to the main floor as soon as you all enter.

Deynn] “Do your thing Roonoo, we’ve got these… things… ”

Roonoo] I get to the table with the glowing object and open my pocket pouch. A large-sized bag drops into my hands from a pocket dimension. I empty some of the coin onto the table – enough to hopefully make room. I drop this artifact into the bag and send it back to the pocket dimension.

] You successfully move the artifact to your pocket dimension. The Ghouls are now facing the others. Ghoul1 attacks Dayni by trying to bite her [()] Her scream echoes as the nightmare’s teeth find a bit of her skin. Another tries to bite Deynn [()] unsuccessfully.

Ileel] I fire from the shadow at Ghoul attacking Dayni

Deynn] I use another charge on my attack against the Ghoul in front of me (G2)

] You feel your heated knuckles sink into the cowled face of the horrendous undead creature. It twists and jerks violently as you follow up with a second punch into its chest area. It falls. Dayni stabs at the Ghoul attacking her [()] Her blades slice and cut with deft skill. The other Ghouls circle Deynn and Dayni and swipe and claw at you. [()] Deynn takes damage but Dayni manages to spin and duck out of the attacking circle without further harm. Leely enters back into the dining chamber cavern.

Leely] “Heys guys! Need some help?” I draw my robes tights and leap into the combat. I pick a target I can surprise from behind (G5)

] You pierce one of the undead nightmares from behind driving your flat blade nearly to the hilt. Withdrawing a pace to retreive your blade you jump back and snap-kick its spine. It falls forward.

Roonoo] “Artifact is gone – lets hope all those skellys don’t return.” I join the combat (Ghoul6)

] You make short work of dropping a Ghoul. Deynn, you are attacked by massive crooked claws [()] but you make it look like you are playing with the nightmare.

Ileel] I fire again on the same Ghoul (1)

Deynn] I turn my focus to another Ghoul (3) and attack

] You find a vulnerable spot in the creature and it shrieks with the blow. Dayni is suddenly behind it [()] and you see both her blades exit the front torso of the Ghoul with a small splash of some wet something you couldn’t call blood.

Leely] I attack the remaining Ghoul

Roonoo] I do the same, attacking Ghoul4 from a flank position

] The Ghouls are all defeated and the large cavern is quiet and still for a moment.

Roonoo] “I need someone with room in their pockets.” I go scoop up the coins I had to drop on the table

] Dayni is quick to help. “There must be 500 gold here! Where did it come from?”

Roonoo] “It came from my savings… I had to make some room in my coin pouch for that artifact. I could use some help to carry it.”

Deynn] “We should hurry along… that mob of bones could return at any second and we don’t want to be here if they do.”

Ileel] “This way, up to the eastern table. I will scout ahead and peek into the next area for dangers.”

] You creep down the tunnel about 20 feet to where it opens up into another large chamber which is lit lightly with an unnatural green hue. A blast furnace and a mechnical bellows powered by a waterwheel dominate the area. The furnace is cold and dark, but heaps of coal are piled nearby, along with carts full of unrefined ore. The waterwheel sits in a ten-foot-wide channel cut into the floor of the room, but it is currently dry. Passages to the west, south and east exit the area. The empty channel exits ot the north and east. There are ten skeletons, mostly ancient dwarves it appears, on the far side of the chamber. You also see half a dozen fresh corpses – large… likely Orcs. Floating in their midst is what appears to be a skull afire with green flames.

Ileel] I return and tell the others what I saw.

] Iarno “A floating skull with flames of green? I have encountered the like before. They have within them a powerful spellcaster and are far more intelligent than mere raised bones. The one I encountered years ago in Methegrist was an aspect of a lich. I cannot imagine our Black Spider is that powerful of a wizard…  I urge caution here.”

] The corridor you are standing in is suddently filled with green light. “Yes…” says a voice as though spoken through a small tin box… “Caution should be urged. Were you Orcs, it would be too late for that.”

Leely] “Are you the Black Spider?” I say humbly.

] Flameskull “Black Spider? I do not know of what you speak… maybe you refer to the Under Elf that charged in here with his rotwalker Orcs… I will tell you the same I told him. You may not enter without the key and live. You do not possess the key so turn back and live.”

Deynn] “We do not seek to unlock your treasure…  we seek the Black Spider.”

] Iarno throws in… “To destroy him.”

Deynn] “His crimes against many deserve a just requiting.”

] Flameskull “Oh… it is justice you are seeking eh? Noble folly is all you may find… but perhaps we have a shared interest… The Under Elf schemes even now to bypass my lock. He laughed when I warned him it would bring the entire mountain down on his head… as if Mormesk were a jolly or a jester. I find I regret not having killed him for it.”

Ileel] “Can you tell us where to find him Mormesk?”

] Flameskull Mormesk “I have… intuitions to share. I expect the Under Elf is searching for my study, trying desperately to find my notes. He is digging through old scrolls in the Temple of Dumathoin. He is clueless… he does not even realize he is looking at ancient Dethek runes. Whoever sent him on his task did not know they were sending a fool.”

] Iarno “You mean to say that the Black Spider is working on behalf of others?”

] Flameskull Mormesk “Surely. These are but intuitions of course… The Dark Elf is driven by both a hunger for power and by fear – fear being the stronger by far. He will fail and will be killed for his failure if I judge aright. Unless, of course, you kill him first.”

] Gundren “If I may ask about the forge? My brothers and I discovered these mines… hoping to restore it to its former glory. You warned that the forge is dangerous to use?”

] Flameskull Mormesk “The Spell Forge cannot be used without its key. The danger lies in trying to work the ore from these mines without the Spell Forge. The iron ore here is… special… and dangerous. There was once another mine like this one, in Dambrath, in the Hills of Dead Kings. They tried to work the iron ore they dug out of the mountain there and the explosion sunk the mountain and killed everything for miles. I devised the Spell Forge to allow the volatile ore to be worked safely.”

Deynn] “You are certain the Black Spider does not have this key?”

] Flameskull “Quite certain. But even if he possessed it, he could not use. Until the key is discovered, these mines should remain lost.”

Ileel] “I quite agree. Let us get to the deed we are here for.”

] Mormesk provides some direction to where the Black Spider is likely to be found. He offers to clear the furnace room of the raised skeletons so you may pass thru. Moments after the flying flaming skull leaves, you hear the sound of bones clattering. As you walk into the smelter room the green glow is gone and the corpses are all still.

Ileel] “Give me a minute here… in case the necromancer would raise these again… allow me to ensure their rest.” I use Death Touch on the corpses – starting with the Orcs and then the old bones.

] Iarno seems fascinated to watch as you successfully turn corpses into black dust. Once completed, the party jumps down into the water channel and continue North out of the furnace room as Mormesk directed. The channel turns West and opens up into a large cavern area. You hear running water and the sounds of excavation work – picks and shovels breaking and moving rock. Looking into the cavern area you see a wide rift fills the easter half of the area. A stream pours out of the west wall and tumbles down into the rift where it flows out again on the north side. Several ropes are secured to iron stakes along the western ridge of the rift leading down to the floor of the chasm, and there are torches hanging from the rock face. You see 4 Bugbears down inside the rift, three of them digging in rubble and the forth appears to be supervising the work. The rift is 20 feet below where you stand and there are no ropes secured to this side of the chasm. Across the rift you see two exiting stairways both leading west – one from the northern side of the cavern and the other on the southern side.

Ileel] I look to the others and whisper “Destruction or distraction?” while notching an arrow.

] There is sudden excitement below. It seems they found what they were looking for. They pull an ancient corpse, still covered in dwarven armor, from the rubble.

Deynn] “Hold on, let us just watch another moment. They may leave on their own.”

] The Bugbears remove all of the armor from the bones it protected for many years. One of them climbs up to the western ledge and they begin hauling the plate armor, boots and guantlets up to him. Two of them carry the gear up the staircase on the southern side of the cavern while the other two go back to digging.

Deynn] “Ok, lets take these two out.” I wait for Ileel to fire a first arrow before I begin to climb down the escarpment.

Ileel] I fire at one of the digging Bugbears (B01)

] Your arrow strikes the back shoulder of the Bugbear with a black mist. It grunts and roars with anger.

Deynn] I climb down the rockface and charge the Bugbears [Ath Check]

] You successfully scale the climb and close within 40 feet of where the two Bugbears are.

Ileel] I fire another, same target (B01)

] This time your arrow flies with Viffo’s Breath, knocking the Bugbear backwards and silencing him. The other Bugbear drops a shovel and grabs up a nearby mace while Dayni attempts to climb down to the rift floor [()] successfully.

Leely] I climb down as well [Athletics check]

] You fail to find sufficient handholds and tumble down the rockface, landing prone on the ground below (1d6 Bldg Dmg = 3). The other Bugbear begins towards Deynn, crossing the running stream.

Roonoo] “You know I used to have this magic rope… makes this climbing by the fingernails look just dumb.” I climb down [Athletics check]

Deynn] I close the distance and attack the Bugbear (02)

Ileel] I fire on the other Bugbear (02) being careful not to hit Deynn

] The Bugbear barely seems to notice the arrow stuck in its outer thigh as Dayni suddenly appears behind him. [()] Her sneak attack finds a soft spot for her blades to cut the very heart of the beast. It falls with Dayni’s daggers still embedded.

] Dayni “Tell Klarg if you see him… Dayni Serpayco wishes she could watch him die again.” She yanks on her blades and they come free in a bloody spray.

Roonoo] “Many-deaths to Klarg… and to his kin.” I say alongside Dayni.

Deynn] “We should hurry up those ropes in case the others return.” I start climbing

Ileel] “I will be right behind you.” I climb down into the rift and go to remove the corpses. [Ath Check]

] There are two sets of stairs exiting the cavern area on the west side. The flameskull had said either lead to the Temple of Dumathoin.

Deynn] “Lets follow these stairs, but keep an eye on the south side for the bugbears to return.”

Leely] “Give Ileel a moment – she should go ahead of us if possible.”

] Dayni “I really need to learn her shadow trick.”

Leely] “Its not a trick… not really… it is her robes. I’m sure she would make some for you. She really is nicer than impressions might suggest.”

Ileel] After removing the corpses and retrieving my arrows, I climb the ropes up to the western ledge and then scout ahead.

] A long set of stairs lead up to a small landing. On the stairs are the corpses of three dead orcs. Each has multiple bloodless puncture wounds.

Ileel] I remain concerned that necromancy could animate any corpses at any moment. I take a minute to remove the threat forever. (which also refills my weapons charges)

] Following the stairs higher, the landing above turns left and then right up another long set of stairs climbing nearly thirty feet through a rock tunnel. Beyond the stairs you see the ceiling of a large room. At the top of the stairs, crouched down and peering into the room you see a female with white hair – a bow at the ready. As you approach closer she motions to you, without turning back, to crouch down and hold position.

Ileel] I assume this to be the drow which Deynn spoke of earlier. I stay wary of her but back down and wait.

] You can faintly hear a conversation happening inside the room ahead. With a moments focus you recognize that it is a language you do not understand. It sounds to you like an anger-heated exchange of words but you cannot know for certain. After a few minutes it seems to calm down. The drow turns back to look at you, her face showing surprise when she sees only shadow on the stairs behind her.

Ileel] I stop Dark Mantle for a moment and reveal myself. I nod as friendly as possible but keep an arrow notched and ready.

] Koza motions to descend down the stairs and at the landing says quietly “You are with Deynn and Roonoo yes?”

Ileel] “Yes but how did you… doesn’t matter… Is the Black Spider in that room up there?” I whisper

] Koza “Nezznar… yes he there. We should discuss a plan of action with the others.” She starts down the lower stairs.

Ileel] When we reach the bottom I say to Deynn “Look who I found.”

Deynn] “Koza!”

] Dayni hears something in your voice and sees the dark beauty of the half-elf drow and, perhaps unknowingly, steps a bit closer to you Deynn. She looks at Koza with suspicion.

] Koza “Good to see friends and allies, truly. I assume you are here to take out Nezznar?”

Roonoo] “Nezznar? Who is…”

Ileel] “The Black Spider.”

] Koza “Yes. Nezznar calls himself the Black Spider. The chamber beyond those stairs is full of enemies. Nezznar is not as powerful as he likes to think… but still dangerous. With him is a doppleganger named Vhalak. They are currently at odds but both need to die. Killing Nezznar is my mission, but killing Vhalak is my true drive – I’ve been chasing her for months.”

] Iarno “I’ve been chasing the Black Spider for months… He does need to die for his crimes.”

Deynn] “Understood.”

] Gundren “What of my brother? Did you see another Dwarf up there?”

] Koza “I did not, but at the top of the stairs is a locked room. I thought I heard someone inside – groaning. First we must remove the threats – and there are many. Nezznar has four giant spiders at his command – four that I saw anyway. I also saw several undead orcs – one of which looks to have been a cheiftain perhaps. There are several Bugbears roaming around. Two just brought in some armor from the south entrance.”

Deynn] “Yes, they dug that up from rubble down here. If they took it to the Black Spider, he must think it important somehow?”

Roonoo] “Could the key to the Spell Forge have been on that dug-up corpse?”

] Koza “Aside from maybe a single surprise arrow from the stair, we don’t have a lot of tactical advantage. Nezznar has not left the chamber for hours, neither has Vhalak. There are two entrances… maybe we could time a breach from both sides… add some confusion. But then that might backfire on us.”

Ileel] “I would say focus on the necromancer, whatever else we kill, he might just raise it again.”

Leely] “Yes but don’t forget about spiders and that awful web stuff they can shoot at you. We nearly become lunch to one a few days back.”

] Koza “The Shadowed-one makes a valid point… Nezznar has somehow managed to raise and re-raise corpses throughout the entire complex. There are several large groups of stroller-bones at his command. He is the drow with the cape and the staff with a large spider on it. The other drow is mine to kill… but be careful, she can look like anyone. If she disappears – don’t turn your back on either friend or foe – she is devious and dangerous.”

Deynn] “We stay together. Gundren and Iarno – you stay at the tail. Warn us if anything tries coming up the stairs behind us. Ileel and Koza – you both take the surprise. Maybe you can drop the necromancer quickly and then step to each side allowing the rest of us to charge in.”

] Iarno “I still have a few spells left to me and the strength to use them, but I will wait until you make your attack. ”

Roonoo] “Shall we get this done then?”

Ileel] I enable Dark Mantle and climb back up the stairs. Once Koza and I both have a clear shot at the necromancer I whisper “Now” and fire.

] Koza fires at the same time at the same target [()]. Both arrows plunge into the unsuspecting drow and he falls backwards dead. The room is suddenly charged with alarm as Koza and Ileel step in and each to one side – Koza to the right of the entry.

] Six cracked marble pillars line the walls of this hall, at the north end of which stands a nine-foot-tall statue of a dwarf seated on a throne, a mighty hammer across his lap. Large emeralds gleam in the statues eyes. The dust and debris covering the floor has been swept to one side and a makeshift campsite fills the center of the chamber in front of the statue. There are several packs and bedrolls around a roughly-built fire pit that now only smolders. A wooden table stands on the west side of the room between two pillars. Two of the Giant Spiders can be seen high on the walls on the far side of the room – about 20feet up. The undead orc is just off to the left of your entry. Vhalak (appearing as a female drow) and Nezznar are near the wooden table.

] Koza “The other drow – there!” she yells indicating the next priority target.

] [Combat Initiative Rolls]

Ileel] I fire at the drow Koza indicated.

] You failed to set yourself and your arrow smashes into the rock wall behind the doppleganger Vhalak. You also failed to notice how close you stepped to a hulking undead orc. It attacks you with advantage [()] but you somehow manage to duck his first attack [()] His second attack, a shield bash, comes unexpectedly doing 5 dmg and shoving you [Athletics or Acrobatics check]

Ileel]  “Ugh!”

] The force of the orcs shield bash nearly knocks you to the ground but you manage to spin and cartwheel to keep your feet. You now stand 10ft away from the undead hulk.

Deynn] I assess who the next most dangerous opponent in the room might be… the giant orc stands out to me… I use a magical charge – Wrath of the Salamandar

] You step between the giant undead orc and Ileel and begin throwing fists fueled with fire. The hulk is no longer focused on Ileel but hardly seems to notice the blows you land. Dayni, as usual, appears suddenly behind the creature attacking you [()] You watch as the tips of her blades poke out from the belly of the rotting corpse.

] One of the Giant Spiders (01) is poised in the corner of the ceiling above Ileel. It attempts to spray you with webbing [()] but at the last moment you sense the attack from above and dive into a roll to escape it. Another spider (02) targets Leely as she runs into the large chamber behind Roonoo. It sprays webbing with advantage [()]. Leely is restrained by sticky strands. The surprise attack triggers the disease within you. [Con Save]

Leely]

] You take (1d10 = 2) psychic damage and you are incapcitated. You begin cackling madly… uncontrollably. The riotous lunacy echoes throughout the temple chamber, chilling your allies with fear for what just happened to you.

Roonoo] “Leely!” I try to determine the best course of action now. Do I attack or defend? I stand near Leely and ready an action if anything attacks Leely or myself. [Con Save]

Roonoo] I use my bonus action to trigger Eldritch Maul

] The drow/doppleganger called Vhalak races for the southern exit of the temple chamber and vanishes beyond the open doors. Koza is attacked with the webbing of one of giant spiders (03) [()] but steps out of the way. The last spider (04) skitters across the tall ceiling and tries to capture Dayni in its webbing [()] but sprays the eastern wall instead.

] Koza begins running towards the southern exit “I’m going after Vhalak!” she yells to the group. A moment later she too is gone from the combat grounds. Leely, meanwhile, is still restrained by webbing and lost in fits of hyena-like laughter. [Con Save]

Leely]

Ileel] I position myself to protect Leely as well, attacking the giant spider in the NE corner of the temple ceiling (02)

] The giant spider enters shock from the massive damage of your attack and falls from the ceiling. It falls 30 feet to the ground [()]. The undead hulk is meanwhile assaulting Deynn [()] its giant sword clangs off the rock wall just above your head as you duck and you were prepared for his follow-up bash with the massive iron shield.

Deynn] “If you were any faster…” I return the attacks

] You unleash a true flurry of blows against the zombie orc elite and surprisingly it remains not only standing but dangerous. Dayni attempts another backstab on the giant corpse [()] but fails to do more than scratch the rotting skin. A giant spider (01) drops down on a thick web near Deynn and attacks Dayni with its massive teeth. [()] The poisonous fangs find flesh and Dayni cries out.

Roonoo]  “They’re coming down to us now!” I surprise attack the spider which just bit Dayni (01)

] As you strike from behind the spider, inky tendrils accompany your Blackthorn blows, crushing the insides of the arachnid. It begins to collapse to the ground but before it does, your sweeping heel kick delivers such a powerful blow that it spins the massive creature around some. Green spider ichor sprays over you, Dayni, Deynn and the massive zombie fighting nearby. Above Ileel, a spider (03) positions itself and attempts to restrain [()] Ileel with webbing [()] successfully. Now both Leely and Ileel are wrapped up togther inside retraining strands. The fourth spider (04) has dropped down and targets [()] Ileel for a poisonous bite attack [()] successfully. You take a total of 16 damage – 7 piercing and 9 poison.

Leely]

] Leely continues with her insane laughter, unable to pull herself out of it.  Three bugbears charge into the chamber from the south entrance. Iarno has also just entered into the temple chamber and is trying to assess the combat. Ileel feels the power of the disease being stuck to the ground, nearly atop Leely [Con Save]

Ileel]

] The zombie orc attack Deynn with single-minded focus [()] but you are just too quick to be hit be hit.

Deynn] “Agh! Thanks for the slime bath Roonoo!” I continue beating on the orc

] You miss on a forward jab but your follow-thru upper cut crashes into the innards of the walking corpse. The zombie orc staggers [()] and falls – once again lifeless.

Deynn] I notice the incoming bugbears and position myself between them and the others.

] Dayni also sees the bugbears and with an angry growl charges straight for one of them (02) with her blades leading the way [()]

Roonoo] Spider or Bugbear… the girls are vulnerable so I close in on the spider attacking it (04).

] You demolish the spider trying to kill Leely and Ileel. The final spider, scurries across the ceiling and drops down near the wooden table as if a guard dog protecting the body of its master.

Leely]

] Leely finally ceases the mad laughter but remains trapped under spider webbing. Iarno sees the spider guarding the fallen drow and becomes suspicious… he fires magic missles at the spider.

] The first of the incoming Bugbears attacks [()] Deynn with its morningstar [()] and hits for 8 damage. The second counters Dayni’s attack [()] but misses. The third goes to attack [()] Dayni from a flanking position [()] and succeeds in rending her flesh painfully with the spiked mace.

Ileel] “Yargh!” I start tearing at the webbing around us both

] You successfully free yourself with several yanks and you also loosen the threads around your sister. (DC 06 )

Deynn] “Turn back or bleed!” I attack the first bugbear (01)

] Dayni attack the second (02) with her blades [()] and does 12 damage

Roonoo] I position for an attack on the remaining spider (GS03)

Leely] I struggle to get free of the last of the webbing

] In your weakened and exhuasted state (Lvl2 Exhaustion), you cannot break your sticky binds.

] Iarno blasts one of the bugbears (03) with magic missles. It delivers massive damage and the bugbear falls backwards and is prone with its belly exposed. The second bugbear again attacks Dayni [()] and does 8 damage.

Ileel] I see a clear shot to the remaining enemy standing in the room and take it

Deynn] I stomp the prone bugbear

] Bugbear blood and brain matter spatters across the temple chamber. Dayni cheers loudly at your demonstrative final killing blow.

Deynn] “Was that the last? Is everyone ok?”

Ileel] I rip at the remaining threads “My sister is still alive but in bad shape.”

Leely] “You are not looking good either Ileel.”

] Iarno “Wait! What happened to the Black Spider!? His body was just right there! Quick – block the exits! He could be invisible!”

Deynn] Dayni and I go stand in front of the southern entrance, ready for an invisible assault.

Roonoo] I block the western entrance with Ileel. “How do we find an invisible necromancer?

Iarno] “I’ve got one idea.” he casts Mage Hand and uses it to scope up large amounts of dirt and debris from the piles against the wall. The magical hand then starts circling the room dropping the dust. “Keep watch for him.”

] “Very clever Iarno.” comes a voice from the north-western side of the room. “I always suspected your motivations, but never your intelligence.”

] Iarno uses the mage hand to throw the remaining dirt into the far corner and it is clear that the invisible body of Nezznar is propted up against the wall. “Time to die drow!”

] Nezznar “Surely I am more valuable to you alive? Might we negotiate? My life for something you want?”

] Iarno “I want Jaylonir back! And not as some walking rotbag!”

] Nezznar “I’m afraid I don’t know what you mean Iarno… who is Jaylonir? Or should I say… who was Jaylonir?”

Ileel] I target the invisible dust pile – ready to fire if it moves

] Iarno “My son, Jaylonir. You had him killed a year ago in Luskan.”

] Nezznar “Ah… the younger Roethorn? Is that who you mean? You would have to blame his brother… Kinvarth, as I recall the name.. Although it was actually Veriyth who spilled the blood. That little squabble is the reason why you spent all these months infiltrating my ranks? How petty… there is so much wealth on the table now… are you sure I cannot buy my way into your graces?”

] Iarno becomes enraged and with a desperate scream he unleashes magic missles into the corner and you see blood spurt and begin to flow down the chest of the still invisible drow.

Ileel] I release my trained arrow – just for good measure.

] Your arrow thunks into the invisible corpse.

Ileel] “No more necromancy… for now at least.” I begin dissolving the many corpses in the room… just in case.

Deynn] “Koza! She may still be fighting that shapeshifter! Be right back.” I run out the south entrance to find her.

] Dayni “I’m with you.” and she runs after you.

Roonoo] “I’d best make sure they stay out of trouble. You guys take a rest.” I follow Deynn and Dayni.

] The three of you follow down the long flight of stairs beyond the south exit of the Temple of Dumathoin. You see no sign of Koza or the doppleganger as you backtrack across the rift and down into the old dining room. Once you arrive at the once-grand entry, you assume Koza’s chase must have gone outside. You turn and return to the others.

] Meanwhile, Gundren has been banging on the steel door in the corridor from the east entrance to the temple chamber. “Nundro!? You there?!” and he starts trying to break it open with his shoulder.

Ileel] “There’s bound to be a key to that door. Perhaps on this table… let me take a look before you break yourself Gundren.” I search the table and surrounding area.

] There are various notes and maps strewn across the table and the floor. You also find a large black leather sack under the table. Within you find a large number of various coins (total of 650gp) and a small pouch of various gems (total 1400gp). There are several potions (3 healing potions 4d4+4, Elixer of Health, [and a few others], a Gold ring set with bloodstones – 250 gp and a dwarven ale mug made of hammered electrum -100gp)   Also on the ground near the table is Nezznars Spider Staff.

Ileel] I pick up the Spider Staff. “Iarno… can you make use of this? He won’t need it.” I toss it over to Iarno then I attempt to search through the invisible body

] You find an additional potion of healing that becomes visible when removed from the pocket. There is another small coin pouch with 22pp and an iron key with a head shaped like an anvil.

Ileel] “Aha! I wonder what this unlocks?” I go try it in the door.

] The door unlocks and opens. Dusty draperies adorn the walls of this room, which contains a bed and a brazier. A badly dishelved dwarf lies bound and unconscious on the cold stone floor.

] Gundren “Nundro!” he runs in and checks if Nundro is still alive. He begins untying his brother.

Ileel] I fish out my Stone of Goodberry “Ela Mir” and I give the berries to Gundren. “Here, feed him these, one at a time.”

] Nundro slowly awakens and his face brightens to see his brother. “I was hopeless to ever see you, or any friendly face again!” He says. “Tharden… I have bad news to tell brother… Tharden was killed.”

] Gundren “I know brother. We… encountered… his body on our way in. I’m afraid I have more bad news… these mines must remain lost. Our big find is just too dangerous to reveal to anyone else.”

Ileel] “You are right Gundren, you need to find some way to keep this place secret until the key to the forge can be found.” I give Gundren and Nundro the pouch of gems (1400gp worth). “Here, at least take these as your prize.”

] Soon Deynn and the others return. He plays a healing flute song to bolster everyone for the journey back to Phandalin. Many hours later you are passing by Barthens Provisionings on your way to the Stonehill Inn for a good long rest.

Appreciation & Collaboration