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Session 43, Grizollo and the Orb

Paldegora

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Session 43 – 2024-04-20

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**Summary**


**Detail**

General Ravenwood and E'lhona remained after King Lundor, Aldric, and Prime Minister Blackmoor had all gone. The General told the Company that rooms were prepared for them and that they should go to them now and rest. They are invited to come down in a couple of hours for a dinner and after that they could rest for the night so they would be prepared to leave in the morning. Angelique asked about getting some healing potions or scrolls of healing spells before they left in the morning. They are still recovering from the battle with the Hydra and Grizzolo. The General told them he would ask, and if there was something, he would have it sent to their rooms. They were lead away to rooms. 

Eryn cleaned up and while she was doing that, Symon and Cassandra looked over the Rod for any indication of how it might work. They found no external switches or moving parts that might allow them it activate it. If there was something there, they were unable to determine what it was and/or how to activate it. There was a brief discussion about why the Rod of Dragon Detection didn't indicate that Grizzolo was a Dragon. Maybe it was because he wasn't a Dragon or because the Vale was so Dragon centric that it just doesn't function here. The fact that it didn't indicate that the Equus were Dragon kin tended to make them think that it was the later reason. Eryn thought that maybe you have to hit a Dragon with it. Symon said that of course, to do that, you would have to get close to a Dragon. She reminded him that they had just fought it and that Cal and she did engage it in melee with swords hitting it. Symon seemed to think it would be interesting to see what happened if we got the chance to try hitting a Dragon with it.

There was a question asked about why Grizollo had green in his scales. Symon postulated that as the dragon was young, that it's scales were green because that is what copper does. As the Dragon becomes ancient, that will likely go away leaving only the copper coloring. 

Eryn suggested talking to Grizollo using the Palantir. We can directly communicate with him. Symon said that we don't really know what all the object can do. It might tell him exactly where we are. It might allow him some means to teleport right where the caller is. 

Cal had described his experience with the Palantir as starting at a point in the Vale and flying through it to a point where he saw what he saw, the caves and the little girl, possibly Ellika as a little girl and again as a young adult in the same place, a cave in both versions of her. As a child she was bright-eyed and as an adult, she was dead-eyed. Symon thought that might indicate that she was a friend of Grizollo's. 

Symon said there was something about Gilbert in the tavern calling Ellika a goblin faced moron. Symon wondered that maybe there is something about her appearance and that maybe she was related to Grizollo in some way? Why would she be hanging out with Grizollo as a child? Was the mother a dragon? 

Was Lundor long dead and this one, an imposter, might even be a dragon himself? The "Lundor's are Dragon's" theory is a bit far fetched but the daughter being in the cave as a kid and being happy, while the young adult being in the same cave dead-eyed and probably miserable, would suggest that at some time, she and Grizollo were on good terms maybe. 

Symon said his favorite theory was that the limited wish that put the orb inside the King, maybe by being limited, it meant it had a limited duration and the orb left him at some point. Maybe the Orb is in the treasure horde. 

Angelique brought up the Heart of the Dragon, the stone found by the dwarves. The stone is feared by the dragons. It had been given to the Dragons of Preservation by Phi and Nah. The Dragons of Destruction demanded that they give up the stone. That was what the whole Dragon War was about. Maybe that is in the horde. Maybe better than that, are the Orb and the Dragon Heart stone one and the same. 

Angelique recounted a saying, "When the daughter of ignorance comes forth to sing, then the days be shortened and violence will spring, the echoes of past will unite again as one, then dragons foretold will from light shall they come.". Simon said something about Ellika being the daughter of ignorance as Lundor's daughter. Lundor having taken the items from the White Witches, and he not being the chosen one. 

They started discussing the horde and discussed searching it for whatever it was that Grizzolo wanted. 

Symon suggested that Lundor already believes that Grizollo only wants the gold. Then he added that Lundor wants the gold. Almost to the point of a craving to keep the gold, much like a dragon would.

"Maybe Lundor is a dragon!", Symon said. He added, "His daughter would be part dragon then. People did report her looking like a 'goblin faced moron'. Maybe there is some kind of draconic like heritage that they mask with magic and someone saw her once when that vale was down. Maybe that's where the rumor comes from. The king is aging more normally than the rest of his kingdom. Is he really the dragon?". 

Then the thinking veered off course and the discussion turned to the Blackmoors. How are they tied together. They remembered how they'd left things in Frosthaven. They knew that more must have happened since they left. Angelique remembered the book of lineages that they'd found in the crypts. How the Blackmoors were a major line. They are very practiced at deception seeing as how everyone thought that the warden was blind to the evil that was Theo but it turned out that Blackmoor was the leader. 

Zantha popped up briefly in the discussion as well. She was just another layer in the whole overarching mystery. She may just be apart of a competing faction. Eryn brought up one last thing, that the magic in the world would be a residue of the many thousands of dragons that have died and become one with the world. Maybe the magic has been moved into the world itself. Simon seemed to melt down a little as the facts were starting to weigh on him. "So much information with still so few answers.", he thought. 

Then they discussed keeping the amulets that Tinkle had given Angelique and Eryn on, so if at some point in the journey tomorrow, if they should leave the vale, they might could reach Tinkle again. 

That's when Simon brought up the guardian, "It seemed at first that he was there to keep people out, but apparently he is also keeping people in. Where did the guardian come from? Where did the magic dampening field come from. Why is Lundor so intent on keeping the people in the vale, including people he knew had family on the other side?". 

That brought up another question that Symon posed, "How did Lundor get in to the Vale? How did he get past the guardian? Maybe the guardian was either placed or arrived later?". 

These seemed like good questions for the dinner this evening. Finally cleaned up and rested, they headed down to dinner. 

There was a table laid out with E'lhona and General Ravenwood present. The King was not present. They sat to eat. Ravenwood thanked them for being here. He commended their bravery in the face of what they were about to do. He suggested that we were all likely going to their deaths, "But we'll make it a death worthy of a song.". 

Eryn began by asking the General if he'd come with Lundor to the Vale in the beginning. He told her that he had. Then she asked, how they got there. He told her that they'd come through the same tunnel that she'd come through. Eryn asked if there had been a Hydra in the cave then. He said there was something there but Lundor kept it at bay with the power of the Orb that coursed through his veins. He told her that entering the Vale had the same effect on them as it did her and the company, it was incredible. 

Eryn asked, "When did you meet the Settarians?". 

Ravenwood told them that the King had known a couple of them for a long time. Settarians are strange folk but one of them had gained his trust long ago and he did trade with us. He asked if they'd remembered seeing the landing pad on top of the tower at Nordain Hold. They did! He said, "That is where the Settarians would come to the Hold.". He had informed his Settarian friend that they were moving to the Vale. He left instructions on where they could be found. It didn't take long before they came to the Vale. 

The King then bought a small fleet of airships from them which was hard to do because it was illegal for them to be sold outside of Settar. It shows how strong their friendship was. Over time they smuggled in several of the ships. 

Symon asked, "Why was the Vale kept a secret?". 

The General told him Lundor decided that it was probably best not to let the world know what we had found here. Partially from selfishness, but if you'd conquered a land such as this, the tendency would be to keep it for yourself. He said, "In our minds, it was our just due for what we'd gone through. We were under no obligation to share it with the rest of the world, because the rest of the world did not come to our aid.".

Symon said, "That presented a conundrum as with Agatha and Lorain Gregory, we knew their father in Frosthaven. Apparently these children never had the opportunity to know their father. 

The General agreed, "I imagine that is so, yes! Charles was ordered to hold Frosthaven against all!". 

Symon asked, "Do you have children?". 

The General said, "No, I never married, I never had time for it!". 

Simon responded, "Well, I think, you've seen Aldrick's dedication to his daughter, you've seen Lundor's dedication to his daughter, yet he denied Sir Charles a relationship with his daughters.". 

The General answered, "I don't think he specifically denied him!". 

Simon responded, "Well, he didn't tell him where they were. He didn't invite him to come here. Nore did he allow the daughter's to leave and go be with their father.". 

The General replied again, "I don't know of any order that forbade them from doing so, but being part of the Wolves of the North and our Air Command, part of it is about the secrecy of the Vale. I'm, sure they would follow that before anything.". 

Simon added, "But they would have been children at the time.". 

The General said, "Well…that is true.". 

Simon asked, "If someone wanted to leave here, could they?". 

The General told him that there was no command to forbid anyone from leaving the Vale. He added, "The problem was, that later on, the guardian had returned and no one could get out.". 

Angelique said, "Well, you did have the air ships!". 

The General said, "Yes, the only way out was by air.". 

Symon asked, "So prior to the return of the guardian, people were allowed to leave?". 

The General said, "Yes, but nobody wanted to leave!". After a moment, he added, " We set up air stations at different points just to facilitate merchant trading with the Settarians, and to keep an eye on things!". 

Angelique asked, "How do you do your merchant trade since you don't use gold and stuff to pay?". 

The General said, "I know this sounds questionable, we don't use gold here, but Lundor uses the gold to pay them.". He added, "The gold has strange effects on people, it makes them greedy and when he started paying them with that, they had no problem continuing to trade with us!". 

Symon asked, "Have you seen the treasure horde, or however you want to describe it, the vaults or where ever this…whatever Grizollo is after?". 

The General said, "Many years ago, yes! It’s all under the castle in these massive caves. There are all kinds of things that these massive Dragons have collected. At first, we wanted to share it with everybody but everyone came down with Dragon Sickness. It just wasn’t possible. So the King took it up and sealed it away, hid it for all time hopefully, until now. Once we did that, we have had no crime here, nothing since. Gold that has been under the care of dragons has a sickness upon it. Why it happens, I don’t know, it’s beyond me.".  

Angelique asked, “How is he able to pay the merchants with the gold and they not get sick.”. 

Ravenwood said, “That’s just the point, he kept the trade going because they wanted more of it.”. 

Symon said, “The interesting conundrum is, does not King Lundor suffer from Dragon Sickness?”. 

The General replied, “It’s odd but it doesn’t seem to affect him.”. 

Symon said, “It’s a similar symptom, philosophically speaking, He has all the gold and no one else does!”. 

The General replied, “Well, he did intend to share it with everybody, but there were problems. When you have so much of something, it’s no longer worth anything. In spite of that, the people got greedy! There were beatings! There was thieving! All the terrible things that go with peoples lust and greed! Once it was removed, the place became a peaceful paradise and has been so every since.”.

Symon asked, “Does Lundor know what he has in that horde? Does he have an inventory?”. 

The General replied, “That, I don’t know! There is just so much of it!”. 

Symon said, “I’ll tell you what I’m driving at and why I keep asking that question because I sense that perhaps there is something more in that horde than precious metals. Perhaps there is something in there that the dragons fear, and that’s why they want that horde so badly.”. 

The General answered, “Well, that’s possible, but if there is something in particular there, Aldric has never mentioned it to me, or Lundor either. I don’t know what it would be!”. 

Symon asked, "So Aldric has access to it?”. 

The general replied, “He’s the one who sealed it and hid it. No one but myself, Aldric, or Lundor, until this point…”. 

Symon asked, “And Freida is Aldric daughter?”. 

“Yes, she is First Ranger!”, the General replied. 

E’lhona spoke up and said, ”Freida trained me and taught me everything she knows!”. 

Eryn asked, “Would it be possible for us to examine the horde, to see if there is anything in there that might strike us as something that can be…”. 

The General cut her off, “If you were granted leave to go down into the caverns, it would take months to go through all of it. I don’t think you conceive how much is down there.”. 

Eryn said, “So they haven’t organized it at all, separating any of it. They just took it from the caves, brought it down here and just dumped it.”. 

Angelique wondered aloud, “Would the Rod detect it?”. 

Eryn said, “That would be interesting. Maybe the Rod will find the item.”. 

The dinner came to a close and they bid them a good night’s rest and told them to assemble here at break of dawn. Angelique asked about the items she had requested earlier. The General snapped his fingers and a servant steward came in and he gave him some instructions. The servant left and then returned shortly afterward with the items. 

He said, “This is what I was able to put together for you.”. 

He gave them 6 vials of extra healing. Each person took one of the vials. They turned in and rested. It was very restful as they felt well protected. Symon started the morning off identifying the arrow they’d found, a potion, the Rod again, just in case they were able to identify it’s extra properties while in the Vale. They also identified the Palantir as well. The Palantir identified as a Seeing Stone and nothing more. The Rod still identified as a Rod of Dragon Detection with some underlying property that escaped him. The potion was a Potion of Speed. The Arrow was an Arrow of Dragon Slaying. Cal-El had the best THAC0 so he took the arrow.     

They joined up with the King and his entourage outside the gates. It consisted of King Lundor, two honor guards carrying the King's banners and colors, General Ravenwood, and E’lhona. They mounted their Equus. Carrie and Mitchell were there to see them off. 

They set out heading for the Northern Gate. They proceeded down the path to the village and made their way to the stone bridge that crossed the river. They cross another wooden bridge going over a river. To the North, they could see smoke rising. They rode along for another hour or so and came to a cross roads. Up ahead they could see the Northern gate. There was a pitched battle going on at the gate at this moment. They guessed it took about 3 to 4 hours to get there. It was still a little before noon. The Wolves of the North were engaged with Baaz Draconians all over the gate which had been breached. The Baaz were fighting the troops on the walls and on the ground. Some had broken through the gate. There were a lot of dead laying around.

The Company broke out their weapons, dismounted, and joined the battle. The General moved up into the battle. Cal-El and Xor moved in on foot. Several stayed with range weapons firing into the horde. They appeared to throw the battle back in favor of the Wolves of the North. It took quite a while but eventually pushed back the horde. Xor and Cal-El sliced through the creatures with ease. Cal-El finally lost his short sword to the dead Baaz's weapon grabbing power. 

Symon mentioned to Eryn that it would be very interesting to see what would happen if she were to touch a Draconian with the Rod of Dragon Detection. She put away her bow and approached one of them. She hit one of them with the Rod and though it did damage to him, it didn't appear to have any special power against them. She put it away and went back to her short sword. 

At one point, several dead Darconian's suddenly exploded. King Lundor pulled out his sword and let out a Wolfish battle cry. His two honor guards jammed the shafts of their banners into the ground and drew their swords. Just as it appeared they were charging in, they heard a strange sound. They'd never heard anything like it before. It came from way above. It was some kind of a screech. It's a sound similar to a bird and everyone was startled. They looked up and saw something circling way up. They couldn't make out what it was. The moment the screeching ended, all of the Draconian's started backing up. It appeared they were retreating. Several people got parting shots on them. 

They thought for a moment while the Baaz retreated and decided that the bird was there so that King Lundor would not be harmed. When he arrived and when he was about to join the battle, the battle was called off. The flying creature seemed to follow the Draconian's back away from the wall and off to the north.

General Ravenwood said to the King, "Obviously, they want you to come forward!". 

Lundor replied, "It would seem so!". 

Everyone collected themselves picked up their stuck sword weapons. Eryn drank a portion of a healing potion. 

Symon road up to Lundor and said, "My liege, if I may? What was that sound that you made?". 

The King answered with a question, "You mean the wolf war cry? It's been a tradition that's gone back thousands of years for our people.". 

Symon said, "Impressive!". 

The group moved through the gate wih E'lhona in the lead. They moved North for a couple of hours before turning East through a valley. They finally arrived at their destination. The valley ended in a sort of depression. There was a long stone walkway leading to the entrance to a cave. There were some dilapidated ruins near by. Lining the route were a bunch of Draconians. Symon spotted crystals lying about that looked very familiar. The Draconians made no move toward them as they rode forward. Symon stayed as far away from the crystals as was possible. 

It was 5:00, nearing sundown. The party dismounted and then moved up to enter the cave. 

E'lhona said, "I've never been in it before but this is his lair!". 

The King told the two honor guard to wait outside the entrance. 

As they moved inside, the King said, "I would speak with everyone for a moment. When we get inside, I beg you to hold your tongues. Let me speak with Grizollo myself. Do you understand?" 

Everyone agreed. 

The King added, "Don't be hasty, don't be rash, and make no sudden moves. Let's see where this leads!". 

Again, everyone agreed. 

E'lhona led the way and the King followed. The rest followed him. They moved north along a path and then moved westerly. They moved around pools of water and stayed on the more solid ground. The cavern was dimly lit as though sunshine was leaking in from somewhere out of sight. As they continued on, they entered a large chamber. 

= = = = = = = = = = Text from Kevin's script = = = = = = = = = =

Up ahead you see Grizollo purched before a cave opening leading outside that is hidden by a flowing waterfall. To his side you see the young princess Ellika being held between two Draconians. One of these you have seen before at Nordain Hold. The other is new to you and strange looking. Ellika seems calm yet her wide eyes dart about as if trying to take in and understand what is happening. To either side of this group you also see two Baaz Draconians standing guard and ready to spring to action if circumstances demand it.

King Lundor moves slowly forward to stand before the dragon. Grizollo's cavernous lair echos with the weight of ancient secrets. The air hangs heavy, thickened by the tension between the two adversaries who stand before each other like storm clouds gathering for a tempest.

"So you have come," Grizollo's voice rumbled, eyes narrowing as he regarded Lundor. "I didn't expect you to show wisdom above arrogance, even regarding the welfare of your own flesh and blood."

Lundor, resolute and unyielding, met Grizollo's gaze. "I am here as you demanded, Grizollo," he replied, his tone measured. "Under the rules of Parlay."

Grizollo's scaled brow furrowed, and he pondered for a moment. "Granted," he said, a sly grin spreading across his draconic features.

Grizollo gestured toward the ragtag band of mercenaries behind him. "I see you brought that pitiful crew with you," Grizollo remarked, disdain dripping from his words. "Did you truly think they could stand up to me? If that was your intention, then send them into battle. I will consume them with a single breath, devour your daughter before you, and spit out her bones at your very feet."

"No, Grizollo," Lundor replied, his voice unwavering. "They are not here for your demise. Fear not for your worthless life; it shall remain unscathed. My word is my bond. No harm shall befall you."

Grizollo's eyes flared with anger. "Such a haughty fool you are, Lundor," he growled. "Do not feign to bandy words back and forth with me! So what is your answer? Speak it now! Do you relent, or shall I reduce your daughter to a pile of sludge?"

"I gave the command for my people to depart the Vale before I left to come here," Lundor stated. "In three days' time, they should all be gone, and the Vale will be yours."

Grizollo's grin widened. "Wise," he said. "There is no need to confirm it; I know you to be a man of your word. One of the few qualities you do possess. My Draconian army will be disappointed, of course, but I have another task in mind for them."

Lundor's gaze remained steady. "Gloat on, wyrm," he retorted. "I know your mind better than your own."

"Do you truly?" Grizollo's eyes glinted. "For I, of course, know yours. If you're thinking of returning our people to Nordain Hold, I suggest considering an alternative. It is not quite the same as when you left it."

"So I have been told," Lundor conceded, glancing over his shoulder at the adventurers, the weight of responsibility heavy upon him.

Grizollo’s eyes sweep over you, the assembled adventurers, your faces a mosaic of emotions—fear, defiance, and a hint of grim satisfaction. His voice, like the rumble of distant thunder, cut through the cavern’s oppressive air.

“If all of you are smiling inwardly about poor Grish-ta-nak and Theo being dead,” Grizollo began, “rest assured I am well aware of your heroic deeds at the Hold. Grish-ta-nak was but one pawn in my intricate game. I have many others willing to take his place.”

His gaze bore into each adventurer, dissecting their resolve. “Traitors and useful idiots like Theo are a copper a dozen,” he continued, disdain dripping from his words. “He was no great loss. My loyal Draconians now occupy the Hold, and my clandestine soldiers to the south are reinforced. Nordain Hold stands as a northern shield wall against you and your brethren scum.”

Grizollo’s claws flexed, talons scraping against the rocky floor. “To the East,” he said, “the she-bitch Xantha unknowingly guards my flank with her undead playthings. And to the West, the five Drakkar Valkyries of old have pledged to me and now watch the sea. My vanguard will sweep southward, putting all the mangy dogs between it and Frosthaven to the sword. Soon thereafter, Valdernost itself will burn in dragon fire.”

Lundor, ever the strategist, turned to the party. “Be silent,” he implored. “Hold your tongues.”

Grizollo’s eyes narrowed, fixing on Lundor once more. “Coldspire, however,” he mused, “I will yield to you. Of course, you’ll have to deal with the undead that haunt its ruins. Somehow, I don’t think they’ll welcome you either, Lundor. After all, you are the very reason they are all dead,” he added, flippant and unyielding.

Lundor’s jaw tightened. “I have no obligation to justify my actions to the likes of you, Grizollo,” he retorted. “However, I do believe your generosity and kindness are sure to become legendary.”

Grizollo’s snort echoed through the cavern, a mocking symphony of ancient enmity.

Grizollo’s laughter echoed through the cavern, a twisted symphony of malice and triumph. His eyes, twin flames of  fury, bore into Lundor, dissecting the man’s resolve.

“You will be forced to wander the desolate lands of Philanaan,” Grizollo declared, each word dripping with venom. “Once a royal house of fame and power, now reduced to a pitiful husk devoid of honor and glory. You, Lundor, shall beg for mere table scraps, pitied by those who once feared you. Filthy beggars and rag tags will be your people's fate.”

"You see I am not the young child you subjugated, and ignored anymore. I have come into my own. You will now pay for your crimes against dragon-kind in full. We dragons will once again reclaim this land of our origin and birthright and throw you Lundor Usurper and that rabble of vermin you rule over out into the muck where you deserve to wallow." 

"Our home will be cleansed and renewed to its glory as it was in the days of old.” 

Lundor’s jaw tightened, but he held his ground. “If that is the price I must pay for my daughter’s safe return,” he replied, “then I shall gladly pay it. The Wolves of The North may be beaten and then scattered, but mark my words—they shall rise again.”

Grizollo’s snort cut through the tension. “Enough of this,” he snapped.

“Now, finally,” Grizollo’s eyes gleamed, “where is the dragon hoard of treasures you stole from us?”

Lundor’s gaze shifted to the cavern floor. “It lies beneath my castle,” he confessed. “Hidden in the labyrinthine depths. The cloaking magic is now removed, the entrance opened. Take it all as you demand. Now, grant me my daughter and allow us to depart. Our Parlay is at an end. Your wyrm stench offends my senses, and your ceaseless prattling wearies my ears.”

The cavern seemed to hold its breath as the fate of kingdoms hung in the balance.

Grizollo’s pause hung in the air like a blade poised for the final strike. His eyes bore into Lundor, assessing the man before him. The cavern seemed to hold its breath.

“Very well,” Grizollo’s voice was a low growl, “go to that swine of a father, Ellika, if you can still bear the sight of him.”

Ellika stepped forward, her movements swift and deliberate. She raised her head to Lundor, arms outstretched as if to lovingly embrace her father. But her eyes held no warmth—only purpose.

“Father,” Ellika and Grizollo spoke in eerie unison, their voices merging into a dissonant chord. A ring on Ellika’s finger flared with a sickly green glow. A thin beam of light shot forth, striking King Lundor squarely in the chest. The air crackled with fell magic as Lundor glowed bright green, then disintegrated into a pile of ashes on the cave floor.

At that very instant, Grizollo’s roar instead turned to a wail of agony and weeping sorrow. He thrashed about, his scales scraping against the stone floor beneath him. Almost like a dog that had been kicked. Ellika’s scream cut through the chaos. “Stop that, you fool, and kill them all!”

Grizollo recovered with a snap, fury igniting his eyes. He charged, wings unfurling, talons poised for bloodshed.

The fate of all now hangs in the balance. 

It is time to roll for initiative!

= = = = = = = = = = End of Kevin's script = = = = = = = = = =

Grizollo flew over to attack General Ravenwood, seriously injuring him. The Draconian that they'd never seen before raised his claws and energy beams came flying out at Eryn. She took damage from the energy as it slammed into her. Symon cast a Slow spell. It impacted the Baaz and Sivak but not Arurak, Grizollo, or Ellika. Angelique cast a Fireball killing the two Baaz Draconians and did some damage to the rest. General Ravenwood hit Grizollo back very hard. Ellika had been preparing to cast a spell but the Fireball disrupted her. Sivak flew but being slowed really impacted him. Xor attacked Grizollo but failed to damage him. Cal-El fired at Ellika and hit her. Eryn fired at Ellika and missed her. Cassandra fired twice and barely hit her but it was enough to take her down. 

With Ellika's fall, things changed quickly. Grizollo flew, across to the outcropping of land on the right side of the room, away from everyone, and rolled up into a ball and began sobbing. The Arurak vanished. Sivak jumped into the water headed back across the room attempting to flee. Everyone fired on or chased him down and hit him and eventually killed him. Xor ran up and began tying up Ellika, just in case. As he reached her, her body collapsed and vanished, becoming a mist of energy that coalesced into the shape of a sphere and solidified. Inside the sphere he saw different colors moving about. 

Xor backed away, his barbarian nature wanting nothing to do with this thing of magic. He called out, "What is this thing?", pointing out the sphere. 

Eryn yelled, "Kill it!". 

As everyone looked around and saw this new item, balls of energy shot out of it. The focused points of energy swirled about until they merged together against the cave wall.

As the spheres hit the wall, everything changed. They were still in the cavern but they are seeing a vision, possibly another plane of existence. It appeared as though they were surrounded by a vast void. There were clouds of energy floating about. Stars were present. Something grew out of it. Energy that grew into something truly monstrous. Again, they were still in the cavern but this image is being superimposed over it. A massive nightmare of a Dragon appeared. Eryn called it a Christmas Dragon. A couple of the group collapsed to their knees in a state of aw and of terror, unable to do anything but cringe and turn away. The huge dragon before them spoke!

= = = = = = = = = = Text from Kevin's script = = = = = = = = = =

Naxodieltrix: "We are free. Imprisoned for two and a half thousand years, I, Naxodieltrix Mother to all of dragon kind have kept you my children within my bosom. My very life itself I have spent nurturing, protecting, and feeding you all. Now it is all but gone. My life ebbs away. With my last breaths, I call you forth once again."

Naxodieltrix, Mother to all dragonkind, her existence bound by chains by the power of the Orb. Her scales, once resplendent with iridescent hues, now bore the weight of ages, their luster dimmed by the sacrifice of her very life force.

(It is as if she is consuming herself. As if her body is rotting before your very eyes.)

Within the confines of her draconic bosom, she had cradled her children—the emperor dragons. Each heartbeat of hers resonated with their lives, for she was their progenitor, their guardian, and their sustenance. She had poured her very essence into their being, nurturing them, shielding them from the ravages of imprisonment, and feeding them with the elixir of her own life force.

But now, that life force has waned. It flickers like a dying star, its brilliance fading into twilight. Her time was at an end. With the last remnants of her breath, she called forth her brood once more.

"My firstborn, Master of all Dragons and Flame. Pyretrix, come forth!"

From the shadows emerged a dragon of molten fire, its wings ablaze with crimson heat. Pyretrix, the eldest, bowed his head in reverence to the ancient mother. (He is a nightmarishly massive Red Dragon)

(Cal-El considered using the arrow on Naxodieltrix, but realizing their form was not physical but was more spiritual, he figured she could not be struck in this form.)

"My most beloved daughter," Naxodieltrix continued, her eyes alighting on a regal figure. "Silver Queen of all dragons. Miriandiel, come forth!"

Miriandiel stepped into the light, her scales shimmering like moon-kissed silver. She inclined her head, acknowledging her mother's call.

The cavern trembled as thunder rumbled. "Cobaltrix," Naxodieltrix declared, her gaze piercing the darkness. "Lord of Storms and Lightning, you have slept too long. Come forth now and rage upon the land!"

A tempest materialized—a dragon with wings that crackled with electricity. Cobaltrix unfurled his wings, ready to unleash his elemental fury.

Next, Naxodieltrix turned her attention to the heart of the dragonkind. "Brendiel," she whispered, her voice tender. "Cherished daughter, Princess of the Forge. Maker of all things precious and powerful, come forth!"

Brendiel stepped into the light, her scales adorned with the hues of smoldering embers. She carried the weight of creation upon her shoulders.

"Emperor of the Wild," Naxodieltrix proclaimed. "Master of flora and of everything that grows untamed within the soil. Verdanatrix, the Terrible come forth now!" emerging seemingly from the earth itself a terrible green dragon with venomus eyes and swords for teeth. Verdanatrix's eyes gleamed with primal wisdom as he acknowledged his mother's summons.

"Coriandiel," Naxodieltrix sang, her voice weaving magic. "My sweet girlchild of wonder, mountains, and whimsy. Enchantress of all Magic and Stone. Come now!"
Coriandiel danced into the light, her wings adorned with gemstones and her laughter echoing like distant chimes.

The shadows deepened, and Naxodieltrix's gaze pierced the veil of reality. "Styxltrix," she intoned, her voice a whisper. "Master of the Void, keeper of black secrets and death's decay. I call you back to us!"

(Cal-El noted that Styxltrix had been mentioned before. The DM acknowledged that he was correct.)

From the abyss, Styxltrix emerged—a dragon of shadow and enigma. Black as night and dripping with venomous fumes. His eyes held the weight of forgotten ages.

Finally, Naxodieltrix turned to the cold void. "Blizzartrix," she murmured. "My youngest. Lord of the Snows, come back to me now."

Blizzartrix stepped forth, his breath frosting the air. His scales bore the chill of glaciers, and his eyes mirrored the frozen abyss.

"My beloved children," Naxodieltrix addressed them all. "You are free once more. But this is my end. I can go no further. I have given all that I have for you."

Her final gift unfolded—a spark of life, a fragment of her essence. "Go back to your eggs," she instructed. "They await you in your lairs. Let your spirits enter them, and be reborn into this world. Take your place once again as its rightful rulers."

And with those words, Naxodieltrix's ancient form dissipated, her spirit merging with the currents of time. The dragons raised their heads heads as one, their roars tear through the air about you with a sound no mortal ear should hear. The very ground underneath you lurched and moved. I fantastic earthquake shakes the cave about you violently. Wave after wave of color, light, air and magic rush through you all. Then silence falls and a bitter cold returns to the cavern about you. It is as if you have woken from a dream into a nightmare.

Cobaltrix: My egg! The egg it calls to me! We must go quickly while we have the strength.

Pyretrix: Yes but what do we have here wallowing on the ground before us? The very chattle of this world. Unworthy to be in our presence and witness to our moment of redemption.

Pyretrix leans down and his great eye of flame and evil regards each of you in turn.

Pyretrix: Hmm, interesting. Fallen humans and Elvish scum. One also who follows one of the impotent gods of this world. Or does she?

(With that, he is looking at Angelique with an odd look in his eye.)

Would that I could burn you all in my holy fire and rid ourselves of your unworthy presence!

Blizzartrix: Brother! Look! The orb, it is here! We have it now.

Pyretrix: Take it quickly!

Blizzartrix: I can’t. I try but I can't take the orb. My spirit is unable to touch it. My magic cannot effect it! This rabble will be able to steal it now and hide it from us!

Pyretrix: Yes, and they will. The danger to us all remains still. This is far from over. Mark each of them well my brothers, memorize each of their faces and stench so we can hunt all of them down and kill them one by one and then take the Orb back from them!

Miriandiel: Laughs Do you fear these lowly creatures as you think of them, so much, my brothers? Leave them be. You cannot harm them at present. My husband was no fool and anticipated as much.

Pyretrix: How dare you speak to me you traitorous bitch! You who would lie and roll about with such filth as these creatures. You disgust me. Was it not your name we all heard the moment of our betrayal and imprisonment? I declare now that you will pay for what you have done.

Miriandiel: Laughs I look forward to the moment you try to collect on that debt brother.

Verdanatrix: We must go! Enough of this! We must go now! My eggs call! 

Pyretrix: Till we meet again. My dear sister.

Miriandiel: I look forward to it my brother.

With that, they each rushed off and vanished!

= = = = = = = = = = End of Kevin's script = = = = = = = = = =

With all of that, the group that traveled to the cave, were suddenly once again, in the cave.

Cal-El began approaching the Orb. The rest were slowly recovering from the Dragon Fear. Cal looked at the Orb, it now doesn't seem to have any lights in it. It's just a translucent kind of Orb. It seems dead now. Angelique asked Eryn to check the Rod again. The Rod still didn't seem to do anything. At no point during the entire encounter did it do anything.

Cal noticed three beautiful Elvish looking women. They stopped and regarded the group. The middle one stepped forward and said, 

= = = = = = = = = = Text from Kevin's script = = = = = = = = = =

Miriandiel: We are the Aeliophilon. 
I am Miriandiel, these are my sisters, Brendiel and Coriandiel.
I would speak with you quickly, for our time to linger here is very short.

Brendiel: Sisters, we should call to the shield maidens if they still live. I have sensed the Drakkar have returned with their hordes of Draconians and we shall have great need them.

Miriandiel: Agreed.

They hold hands and close their eyes.

Coriandiel: Yes. They live.

Miriandiel: Yes, they have answered and they will come to us at our appointed places.

Coriandiel looks over at Grizollo lying still and sobbing quietly.

Coriandiel: Poor Grizollo. You have suffered so much pain and hardship, my child. You have been wrongfully used.

(She floated over to him!)

Grizollo: I have done so much evil, my Queen, how can I ever repay what I have done or be forgiven of it?

Coriandiel: Sweet Grizollo, take comfort. You did nothing by choice. You were used against your nature by the evil of others. You are blameless. Your sorrow and guilt will turn into wisdom, for you were touched and used by evil but your heart is still pure. Now, if you are willing, I have great need of you. Will you serve me now?

Grizollo: Yes my Queen if you think I am worthy.

Coriandiel: I do. I have foreseen your future and you will one day be counted among the great dragons of this world. You have a destiny to fulfill.

She walked over and gently touched his head.

Here is what I wish from you. Gather yourself and go. It is a long journey but I will see you again soon when all is ready.
Do you wish to take any of the treasures here with you?

Grizollo: No my Queen. It was all wrongfully taken and I have no right to it.

Coriandiel: You are quite correct. Wisdom already begins to show in you Grizollo. 

Brendiel: Come, let us leave. I must go now to my egg for I am feeling weak.

Miriandiel: I must stay and speak with them for a moment longer. Sisters. (bowed) Till we meet again at the appointed place and time.

(Coriandiel and Brendiel vanished)

Grizollo turns to the party.

Grizollo: Thank you all for freeing me. Please forgive me. I am in all of your debt. In her sleeping chambers Ellika has a small chest of valuables that I did not swallow. It is free of any dragon sickness and should be yours if you wish. Goodbye for now! Goodbye!

(He rushes forward and jumps through the opening at the back with the waterfall and was gone. Miriandiel followed and then turned back to the group.)

Miriandiel: My friends, I have little time now please listen carefully. My husband Tim and I feared they might escape. Things went wrong with Pyretrix. He almost killed Tim and escaped. He is the most cunning and dangerous! If you would stop the five then you must hurry, for you have little time. In a month they will emerge and grow quickly. In a years time they will all be fully restored as you saw them here and your realms will all burn in dragon fire and fall into death and slavery! Take the now empty Orb of Dragon Mastery and use the iron rod King Lundor had in his possession but knew not its purpose, the very one that you now carry. It is what you will need to find each of their lairs and then force them back into captivity. But hear me now.. this is most vital of all… First you must seek out and retrieve the Heart of The Dragon. Without it you cannot succeed. It can be found on the… No! No! I must go now! I am out of time. You must bring the Heart to me before you go to face Pyretrix! Before him only, do you understand? Remember me! Remember my…..

= = = = = = = = = = End of Kevin's script = = = = = = = = = =

With that, Miriandiel faded away. 

They went to the sleeping chamber with the box of stuff left by Ellika. Cal-El pulled the body of Sivak out of the water. When he dragged it out of the water, it looked like the person that killed him, Eryn! Eryn said, "Damnit, I hate it when I kill myself!". Though it was her, there were no items on it to take. 

They realized that now they know that the Rod locates. Eryn suggested that balancing the Rod on something and concentrating on the dragon they wished to find, that it might point the way. Eryn pointed out that Angeliques amulet was glowing. Eryn's also glowed. That's when they realized how cold it was in there. Everyone started the feel the effects of the severe cold. They pulled out and put on their winter gear.

They opened the chest and found 1,000 gold pieces, 500 silver pieces, and 300 copper pieces. They also found Grizollo's sending stone. They now had both stones. Symon spoke to E'lhona and General Ravenwood. He determined that they saw and heard everything that the rest of them had seen and heard. They were still reeling at the prospect of what had happened. They started trying to figure out if that had actually been Ellika or if it was something else all along. Had Ellika been killed long ago and this imposter was actually in control of everything all along? 

Symon put it all together. Ellika was the Orb? As he mentioned that out loud, Eryn seemed to hit an ah ha moment. The Orb was in Lundor. When Ellika was conceived, the Orb transferred to Ellika and grew in the baby as it grew within the mother. The Orb gave her the mind of a dragon.

Eryn looked around and found the ring that Ellika had used to destroy her father. Cal-El scoped out the waterfall as a potential exit, being concerned that they would be attacked by the Draconian's as they left the cave by the front door. The waterfall was exceedingly cold and would be nearly impossible to exit by. 

It was then that they heard two horn blasts from the front of the cave. Eryn moved to check the front of the cave. She creeped up to the edge of the cave, peeking out she saw above them, the Meteor. Loraine was on board and was waving down to them. She also noticed that a heavy snow was falling. She called back to the others and they made their way out. The Draconians were no longer present. 

Once aboard, Loraine apologized for taking so long to get to them but it took that long to repair the ship. She told them the Vale was being evacuated as most of the people were out. She told them it was time to go. She also told them that they wouldn't believe what had happened. They turned the ship around and headed back to the Vale. Once they cleared the mountains and entered the Vale again, what they saw resembled nothing of what they had left. It had become a barren and empty valley full of ice and snow. The caves that they'd seen were still there but there were no longer any eco systems surrounding them. It appeared that the magic, the power of the Vale, was gone. The people had made it through the cave and were headed South. Loraine stated, "We must make our way South as quick as we can!". 

The Meteor pushed it's way South, toward the mountains. About half way through the Vale, Eryn and Angelique heard a familiar voice. It was Tinkle's voice. 

"Uh, well, you need to come here as quick as you can. We really must talk!", Tinkle said. 

Angelique asked, "Come where?". 

He replied, "To my wagon!". 

Angelique asked if he could pop us there immediately. To which he said, "No! Come as quick as you can! We must talk!". 

Eryn asked if his wagon was where they'd left it. He told her it was. They asked Loraine to take them to Frosthaven. 

Loraine said she'd take them anywhere they desired. She said, "We owe a great debt to you!". 

They told her where to find this wagon and the ship headed toward that. When asked about the Draconian army that had assaulted the Vale, Loraine only knew that they were gone but didn't know where. 

It took a day or so to get to the wagon. On their way there, they saw that the people were coming down the mountain, moving that way. They lost sight of them in the mists. Loraine told them that once she dropped them off, she would double back and give them cover. 

They went over the Drakemoors and spied Nordain Hold. There was no activity there. All of the Draconian's and Goblins seemed to be gone. 

They moved over Stonebridge and it seemed to be the same as when they'd left it. 

They finally arrived at Tinkles Wagon. They lowered ropes for them to climb down. They had tested the sending stones along the way and found that they worked. They thought about leaving one with Loraine but figured they would be too busy rebuilding their home to be helpful to them and decided to keep the stones. 

They moved down to Tinkles Wagon, now knowing how to approach it, and made their way into it. They called out to Tinkle and then discussed what had happened. He said he had been concerned when he lost contact with them. He told them that something dramatic had happened over the last several days. When asked what, he called for Barry and then told him to pull on this lever. 

Appearing before them within one of the circles on the floor was a man that just exuded power. An older man that Angelique recognized immediately as her Grandfather. She rushed to hug him. He was very happy to see her and that she had made it through all that had befallen them. He told her that there was a lot they needed to talk about. Tinkle asked if he wanted him to… The Grandfather, Silverstein Blazecallar, told him that yes, "Go ahead!". Tinkle had Barry pull the other lever. 

On the other circle, a woman appeared. Angelique recognized her as her mother and ran to hug her. Her mother said, "I'm very glad you lived. I didn't think you were going to make it!". 

Symon was heard, whispering under his breath, "Your mom is hot!".

Her mother continued, "Your Grandfather and I don't see eye to eye on things, but you are your own person and you have to make your own choices.". 

Silverstein said, "Now come on, we must talk, it's very important! Let's discuss what's happened. We lost contact with you when you entered the temple. It was very sketchy from that point on. Please tell us everything that happened after that.". 

He told them that the power of Sahn had blocked their attempts to scry on them once they entered his temple. He also told them that when they entered the Vale, it was as if they'd disappeared. 

The Company Clandestine filled him in on everything that happened after they entered the Temple. Silverstein told them that what they told him explained a lot. 

Silverstein, speaking to Tinkle and Symon, asked if they'd noticed a change in magic already, subtle but unmistakable. Tinkle stated that it seemed more raw, pervasive, and substantial in a strange way. Less otherworldly and somehow more natural. Silverstein said, "It's not lessened!. It's core, for lack of a better word, seems to have shifted. Maybe permanence is a better word. As if it is a natural state for Paldegora and not from the outside or foreign any more.".

Tinkle said, "That earthquake and shockwave that you felt. It went through all of Paldegora. We all knew what happened at that very moment and what it meant, just not the details!".

Silverstein added, "The Ancient Order of Arcana and been dissolved. The Arch Mages are aligning themselves. Some with myself and Tinkle, some with Aphobis, and some are claiming neutrality, but none of us will be able to remain so.".

Tinkle said, "The Ahn cult has openly declared itself as followers of Sahn. Sahn has been long prepared for this. His followers are everywhere now in every city and town. War is coming!".

Silverstein said, "Aphobis has openly declared himself in Nox at Blackspire and can already field an army of horrors. Gilpliset will be hard pressed and Brightspire is unprepared. Aphobis has declared alliance with Fellspire and Darkspire. If the fell creatures that inhabit Ignus form into armies then Cordas will feel the hammer blow first and the hardest. Also 
Drakkar has already been reported near Ignus and Nox and by ships over the Amber Ocean. Hellspire is a raging inferno and at night the light from its volcanic fires alights every shoreline of the Ruby Sea. Things are moving quickly, very quickly. In Ardendale, the dwarven king has ordered all the forges relit and weapons to be forged day and night. Valdernost is now rearming and has declared a summit of Spires and sent messengers to meet at Silverspire to reform the old alliances. Settar has taken an aggressive stance, shut down all trade and reinforced all its fortresses and she is deploying battle fleets of air and sea ships. The elves of Elondale have closed their boarders and have cut off all communication. Moonspire is oddly silent. Uttdanlun has made no declaration but they are mustering troops and are attempting to purge Sahn followers. For the other nations I have had no word, but it’s safe to assume they are arming for war as well. Your Party is marked by Sahn followers. They know you have the map. Sahn covets the Heart of the Dragon above all things. Why I am not certain. But it seems to me that this Heart of the Dragon had everyone's attention and it's going to be a race now to see who gets to it first. I believe that we have a chance here. A chance for you to get to it first. Can we see the map?".

Angelique pulled out the map and presents it. They opened the map and everyone hoovered around it. 

Tinkle said, "Very strange! That's not a very good part of the ocean to have to go to!".

Silverstein said, "Lot's of legends have come out of that part of the ocean and thousands of ships have disappeared over the centuries there. There have been a lot of fables, songs, and stories you know. I don't know what you might face traveling into that part of the ocean.".

Tinkle said, "Well, in situations like that, I always like to look at a cookbook!". 

Symon asked, "A cookbook?". 

Tinkle said, "Oh yeah! Sometimes you find answers in cooking!". He sent Barry to get a cookbook by Emilio. Barry gave him a look before disappearing for a moment and returning with the book. Tinkle said, "Ah yes, this is the one! ". The cookbook held 11 recipies. 

= = = = = = = = = =

### 1. Eternal Tempest Tuna Tartare
**Legend:** Sailors whisper of a storm that never ends, trapping ships for eternity.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Mix ingredients gently. Serve immediately, as if in the eye of the storm, where calm meets chaos.

### 2. Maelstrom Mussels
**Legend:** The maelstrom's pull is said to be as irresistible as the taste of these mussels.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Steam mussels in white wine and garlic. Add cream and butter, simmer until thickened. Garnish with parsley as if swirling in a maelstrom.

### 3. Hydra's Ceviche
**Legend:** A seven-headed sea serpent's gaze turns the bravest sailors to stone.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Marinate seafood in lime juice. Mix with remaining ingredients. Serve chilled, with a warning of the hydra's lurking presence.

### 4. Siren's Song Soup
**Legend:** Sirens' melodies lure sailors to their doom, much like the aroma of this soup.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Simmer all ingredients except shrimp and mushrooms. Add them at the end, cooking until just done. Serve with a side of caution.

### 5. Calm Seas Carpaccio
**Legend:** In the doldrums, the sun's wrath is as fierce as the stillness of the sea.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Arrange beef slices on a plate. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Top with capers, arugula, and Parmesan. Season to taste and enjoy slowly. You have a lot of time.

### 6. Ghost Ship Gumbo
**Legend:** A spectral vessel guards the path to a hidden isle's treasures.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Brown sausage, chicken, and vegetables. Add stock, tomatoes, and seasoning. Simmer. Add shrimp near the end. Sprinkle file' powder to thicken and watch for tattered black sails.

### 7. Leviathan Lobster Bisque
**Legend:** A colossal creature lurks below, its tentacles reaching for unsuspecting prey.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Sauté shells and vegetables. Add tomato paste, then flambé with brandy. Add cream, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer, blend, strain. Add lobster meat and pray its not related.

### 8. Kraken Calamari
**Legend:** The kraken's embrace drags ships to the ocean floor.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Dredge calamari rings and deep-fry until golden. Serve with lemon wedges to ward off the deep-sea beast.

### 9. Merfolk's Mead
**Legend:** A drink shared with merfolk ensures safe passage through treacherous waters.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Dissolve honey in water, add yeast. Ferment. Add orange zest, cloves, and cinnamon. Age to perfection, like an age-old pact with the sea.

### 10. Poseidon's Paella
**Legend:** The god of the sea's favor is as fickle as the winds.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Sauté chicken and chorizo. Add rice, saffron, and stock. Arrange shrimp, mussels, and vegetables on top. Cook until rice is tender. Serve with lemon wedges and prayer shells.

### 11. Fog Pie
**Legend:** A dense fog that confuses sailors, leading them astray from their charted courses.
**Recipe:** (a list of ingredients).
**Instructions:** Sauté leeks and fennel until soft. Add smoked fish and cream, cook until thickened. Fill pastry with mixture, top with another sheet, seal edges. Brush with egg wash. Bake until golden. Serve with a sprinkle of dill, and a tale of the disorienting fog that envelops unsuspecting ships.

“Embark on your final voyage across the Emerald Seas with a feast fit for a captain. Savor the journey, Bon Appétit!” - Emillio

= = = = = = = = = =

Tinkle continued, "I think all of the other legends and tales are not true. I think this is what they might be facing!". 

Silverstein said, "The sad thing is, the Sahn people know you have the map and they will be after you! You are all marked. From what you told me, you are also marked by the Dragons themselves. ".

That sobering thought seemed to hang over everyone there, each pondered what this meant for them and for Paldegora. 

Silverstein added, "You are going to have to get to the Heart of the Dragon first.". 

Symon asked, "Suppose our little guide could get us there?". 

Tinkle said, "I can't get you to this island with magic, but I do think I know somebody who could help. There is really only one ship that could make a journey like that!". 

Silverstein asked, "Well, who would that be, Tinkle?". 

Tinkle replied, "You need to find a good friend of mine!. He's a pirate hunter. Captain Ambrose Percival Hurst! He's retired but you can find him probably in Port Ahn.". 

The Company debated if that was where their friend George Mary went with the kid?

Tinkle continued, "His ship won't make the journey but there is one ship that may possibly can. You've probably never heard of it but it's called the Blade!".

The told him they had heard of it. They told him that George Mary had told them about it.

Tinkle said, "I think that is what you will have to dol. You must find Captain Hurst and let him know you are my friends and that I sent you and ask for his help to track down the Blade. You'll need that ship to make this kind of a journey! Also, you should be aware of all of the Arch Mages, as we don't really know where they fall!".

He gives you a rundown of all of the Arch Mages and the status that they think they have now. 

= = = = = = = = = =

Arch Mages of Paldegora

The mystical arch mages, each representing a school of magic:

Aligned under Silverstein Blazecaller and Tinkle

	Evocation: The Archmage of Evocation is Silverstein Blazecaller, a firebrand sorcerer with eyes like molten gold. His wrath ignites the heavens, turning mountains to ash and foes to cinders.

	Illusion/Phantasm: The mischievous Zyphalax Thalvandar Tinkledorf (Tinkle) flits through reality's veil. His illusions confound enemies, and his pranks leave even the sternest wizards bewildered.

	Conjuration/Summoning: Lyra Silverweave, the ethereal elf, dances between realms, summoning creatures with names like forgotten constellations. Her laughter echoes through the astral winds.

Aligned under Aphobis:

	Necromancy: Aphobis Zuldanath, draped in tattered robes, commands skeletal minions. His touch drains life itself, and he whispers secrets from the void. Beware his shadowed gaze—it sees beyond the veil of mortality.

	Enchantment/Charm: Sylvan Nightshade weaves silver-threaded enchantments, but her eyes hold a hint of mischief. She whispers dreams into the hearts of mortals, making them believe they are frogs leaping through moonlit ponds. 

Unaligned:

	Abjuration: The Archmage of Abjuration remains Elowen Stormwarden, her protective wards now shimmering with renewed vigor.

	Alteration: Thaldrin Stoneheart still shapes stone and earth, but his caverns now echo with the whispers of ancient secrets.

= = = = = = = = = =

Silverstein and Tinkle asked if they could examine the artifacts. They handed over the Rod and the Orb. Tinkle asked them to just relax and rest for a bit while they examine them. "Barry will bring you food and stuff!", he added. Barry did bring food and drink. They discussed the goings on and what is expected of them and their willingness to continue on the path that is being laid out before them. (There was no actual discussion to document)

About an hour later, Tinkle and Silverstein returned and told them they thought they'd discovered some things between the two of them. The Orb is and Orb of Dragon Mastery. It was also used to imprison the Dragon Emperors. The Rod was the key to imprisoning them. Not only is it a Rod of Dragon Detection, it is also a Rod of Soul Trapping, but there is something odd about it. It looks like the Rod had 14 charges. It only has 4 left. Besides the 9, one extra was used. Another thing about it is that it has 6 command words. We cannot determine what those command words are but we suspect it is a key to the Dragons themselves. With something like this, you have to be in the presence of a dragon. I believe you can use a charge and the right command word and it will actually rip their soul out and force it back into the Orb. It will require both items to be present at the same time. It can only be used to trap four as there are only four charges. 

There are five non-metalic dragons, White, Blue, Black, Red, and Green. It was suggested that they couldn't trap the Red Dragon. They remembered the words that Miriandiel said, "Here me now, this is most vital of all. First you must seek out and retrieve the Heart of the Dragon, without it you can not succeed. You must bring the Heart to me before you go face Pyretrix.". 

Tinkle said, "Well, I think you are going to have to go find the Heart of the Dragon.". 

This ends the first module. (much applause, cheers, and huzzahs!)

Please start the recorder.