Synopsis

Chapter 1 Summary

• All new to Saltmarsh, the heroes took a contract to investigate a missing caravan outside of Saltmarsh that belonged to a trader associated with Anders. They found it and had a battle with bandits that spoke of a Nightshade in Dreadwood.
• The heroes then took up a contract to investigate the "haunted house" outside saltmarsh and found a band of smugglers. Among other things, weapons stolen from the Kingdom of Keoland were found. The party disguised themselves and boarded the Sea Ghost and claimed the ship. In doing so, they confirmed that the smugglers were shipping weapons to the lizardfolk in the Hool Marshes. They freed a captive who was a bit shifty -- Gerard.
• Back in town, the Urgor won a bare-knuckles boxing match, fighting Nine Lives more, among others. He won the favor of Xendros the Quartermaster.
• During some downtime, Belizar took a trip for Gellan to recover any remaining crew in the Carrion Archipelago. He learned that a blue dragon had taken up residence in the islands. Additionally, the Tower of Zenopus was occupied by goblins and Undead. He met Darcaym who later joined the party. Seja, went the ruins of Warthakeel ruins (with Gerard) and destroys some mud mephits which were causing trouble in Saltmarsh. Additionally, he finds some clues to people being blinded in Saltmarsh, but does not find the perpetrators. Urgor learns of the past battles fought and commanders in Sheldomar Valley from Krag. Krag is a local historian with a connection to Eliander. Krag says Ingo might know more. Mejdrich leaves the party but remains in Saltmarsh under the tutelage of Keledek the Unspoken.
• The main factions of Saltmarsh became clearer.
  • Council members Eda and Gellan were focused on the people of, less so the imperial ambitions of King Skotti. Gellan was one of the pre-eminent business people in Saltmarsh. Eda was well known by all townsfolk and also ran a fishing business. Both were well liked by locals.
  • Council members Eliander, the town guard captain, and Manistrad Copperlocks, a dwarf who runs a mining operation near Saltmarsh, clearly had more favor with King. Eliander was a retired soldier and well respected in town.
  • Young council member Anders seemed to flip between the two other factions. He hates slavery.
• The party was granted the Sea Ghost after learning it was previously a warship from the Keoland, the untamed tempest. As part of the deal, the party had to maintain the ship and it had to be used to defend Saltmarsh or crown interests if needed. Gellan, who brokered the deal, made a side deal with the party to cut through the red tape of harboring in Saltmarsh. The party went into business with Gellan, who said he would manage the trade contracts needed to make it profitable.
• The party traveled by ship to the Lizardfolk home and found out that they were removed from their ancient homeland by Sahuagin, who have become a major threat. The party helped negotiate an alliance with the lizardfolk, sea elves, and other sea races to move against the Sahuagin. They slayed a giant crocodile for the lizardfolk and Seja did a ritual to the lizardfolk god to remove the curse on his weapon.
• The party returned to Saltmarsh learned a few more things about the region from Lorys the Druid. Dreadwood has been expanding, and it has strong connections to the fey-wild. Nightshade is an evil hag.
• Repairs began on the Untamed Tempest which was damaged in the last voyage by ambushing Sahuagin. Other boat business:
  • Estimate 15,000 gp / yr to maintain vessel.
  • Gellan to secure a crew.
  • Vessel has a defence system -- animated armor.
  • 5 crew was to be hired from Seaton, selected by the Marshall there.
• Abbey Isle -- was desired by the mariners guild, they asked the party to investigate and clear out any obstacles to taking the island. Apparently undead were there. Reports indicate that it was recently assaulted and may be weak. Copperlocks clan had stories of wealth being there (in the rocks). The party did not immediately act on this quest.
• Nameneed returned and joined the party's retinue. He is Belizar's smuggler uncle who looked after him as a child.
• The party learned from Mejdrich and Krag about the Shard and Horncarver who were located in the Drowned forest. Horncarver was Arkon's lieutenant who took over command of a force dedicated to Mephistopheles and who controls the Drowned forest. The forest has a curse on it. Previously the silverwood elves lived there.
• Arkon's remains were split after he died in a major battle between the Shard and Nightshade --- some of his followers took his remains to the tower of Zenopus, which he had previously conquered from Zenopus, the other part went to Nightshade. They later found out that she had captured his soul in an iron cask.
• The Tower of Zenopus was revealed to be a place of interest to Keledek, who nominally (/secretly) holds control of it for research.
• Nine Lives joins the party as a hired specialist aboard the Untamed Tempest.
• Saltmarsh was assaulted by a force of Sahaugin. There were many casualties, both the town guard and civilians. The party defended the harbor valiantly. Many bodies were dragged to the depths. The small marine force was destroyed.
• There appeared to be some foul play in the assault, though nothing was proven. A tower was burnt down and blamed on the Sahuagin. Those killed did not appear to be killed in the same manner (blinded and poisoned).
• The party resolved to go to the Drowned forest to investigate lost halflings -- a vision given to Seja by Yondalla, and Urgor's personal quest to find out what happened to Arkon.
• Belizar took a deal with a devil that appeared to them in the forest. Urgor vowed to kill the head of the Shard to a group of elf ghosts in exchange for magical items. The party met Rotten Ethyl, a strange magical lady who lived in the forest on a lake. One of her pets severed one of Urgor's toes. The party destroyed a shrine to Mephistopheles in the forest and fought many evil creatures. The forest was depressing, with portals to shadowfell all around.
• The party finds the fortress. After a number of battles, they meet Bhol, a lieutenant of Horncarver. Bhol makes a deal to give them time to go to the depths of the forest and slay Horncarver. The party finds a magical sea-horse along the way. Finding Horncarver, they kill him and explore the rest of the fortress, finding treasure. They also find evidence of Arkon's past exploits and his infernal contract and some notes from Zenopus. They learn:
  • Over 100 years ago Arkon made a deal with Mephistopheles for power.
  • He conquered the shard from a green dragon.
  • He conquered the tower of Zenopus and learned of some portals that were there.
  • He captured Dalixiateara, an Amethyst Dragon known also as the Chronicler.
  • He attempted to destroy Nightshade, but was killed in the process.
  • Zenopus was involved in necromancy and magic related to time and space. He attempted to flee when assaulted by Arkon. He had access to demonic forces.
• The party defeated a Bone Devil in the bowels of the fortress, freeing the souls of a few more halflings in the process. The forest did not appear to change overnight.
• Stopping in on Heatherholm, the party returned the halflings they recovered in the Drowned Forest. Seja was given a divine book of Yondalla from the High Priest.
• Nine becomes a partner with the ship.

Section 1

A missing caravan, and, a wandering halfling friend found

By a coincidence or perhaps some run-of-the-mill dabbling of fate by an ambitious sub-deity acting upon a hapless group of humanoids, the party, one (half?) short, came to answer a job for adventurers in the town of Saltmarsh in the Kingdom of Keoland. A human wizard, Mejdrich, fancying himself a diviner, waited impatiently for the task he felt obligated to do. A mysterious half-elf Rogue, Belizar, arrived late and played the outsider who could take it or leave it. Finally, a goliath fighter,Urgor, stood ever eager at the front, sizing up the Captain of the Guard... and everyone else.

The mission was to investigate a lost caravan travelling from the capital to Saltmarsh, which would be rewarded with gold. Charles, a semi-retired veteran of the guard was to accompany the party on the outing. He was clearly favored. Captain gave him a flail. No mind he had a peg leg.

In travel the group managed to spook passing caravans with a little "goliath under the sack in the back of the cart" trick Urgor mastered.

When the lost caravan was found, the party was ambushed by bandits, led by a jackalwere. The battle was joined by a wee guy, Seja, a wandering halfing cleric who recently left his hermitage with wild story of doom about to befall on Saltmarsh. An investigation of the scene suggested that the merchants were taken into Dreadwood, but hey-ho the goods were all saved. The party declined entering into Dreadwood, leaving the merchants to their fate. Mejdrich made a new friend, charming one of the bandits, who learned about Nightshade, a mysterious figure in the Dreadwood who always got her due. Being the good 'friend' he was, Mejdrich let Bandit off the hook with a couple of gold and even agreed to get a drink sometime he was in Saltmarsh together... nothing bad could come from this...

Section 2

A night out in Saltmarsh, and, a quest for a drowned slave

After returning to their individual lodgings (and circumstances therein), the party convened at the Wicker Goat for a celebration. Dwarves were packing the place, all in a pretty good mood over what you came to learn was a new find at the mine. Music and merriment was not in short supply. Seja danced on the table, Belizar played the bone pipes and Charles played some spoons with the band. Following this some tavern games commenced. The party did quite well - Urgor arm wrestled with a dwarven foreman, Seja nearly passed out under the stiff Dragonfire Stout, and Belizar's unconventional use of the bone pipes to coax an ox forward left you feeling good in the night. Belizar then had a tense meeting with a mysterious figure in an alley on the way back to his room.

In the morning the group gathered at Ander's Solmor's mansion to settle the issue of the 100gp. Anders and his butler Skerrin were pleased to accept the full 100gp (they offered half as a finders fee) to recompense the merchant's families. He was distressed to hear that the bandits did not kill the merchants and feared slavers were involved. The party was then informed that a woman in manacles washed up drowned in Saltmarsh in the morning. Ander's knew that she was an adventurer in town who had previously sought work at his company, but was known to have been exploring the haunted house. The party learned a bit more about this - apparently it was a place that had a great treasure and used to have a hermit alchemist who lived their many years ago. The location was widely avoided by people in Saltmarsh. However, with the current news, the Council, at Ander's urging hired the party to investigate and eliminate any threats.

Section 3

Uncovering the legend of the haunted house, and, a snake in the grass?

The party headed out of Saltmarsh on a job for the town council to investigate and clear a haunted mansion outside of town. There have been all manner of stories around the house: ghost filled, used to be owned by a crazy hermit alchemist, great hordes of treasure -- but also a very dangerous place. Yet the recent events, young woman adventurer washing up dead on the shores of the town in shackles, prompted the council to action to see if slavers are involved.

At the edge of town you ran into Charles who offered to help with the haunted mansion and the party agreed to split the shares with him. He mentioned that an old poacher who lived outside town was rumored to know something about it. Stopping at the poachers shack, Urgor hopped the fence and threatened poor old Ralf, who turned tail and ran without hesitation. The group left him go and continued to the haunted house.

With the weather deteriorating the party arrived at the house, which, as alluded to in the stories looked truly haunted -- dilapidated, rotted out, filled with cobwebs, the house looked nearly ready to fall off the cliff it sat next to. Cautiously the party inspected the entry and, deciding it better to enter through the garden (rather than the main trail next to the cliff face), was ambushed by a family of giant weasels. It was a slamming success -- if one were to describe the brilliance of Charles' flail work. After some discussion on how to enter, the group decided to simply enter through the main door. Tracks that were found led the party to two entrances to the basement, one through a trapdoor, one through set of stairs at the back of the house. The rooms were all searched and there were several curios found along with several swarms of spiders. Several items were found led the party to believe there may indeed have been an alchemist living there at one time. The party, ready to descend downstairs heard a faint moan somewhere else in the house and, after investigating, found Ned bound and gagged on the second floor. His story was that he was an adventurer from Seaton who, on entering the house was ambushed by an unknown number of assailants and left to die. The party let him tag along, on his request, and even helped him recover his gear that was left in a nearby room. Other points of interest: [1] on the second floor a particular window had markings of heavy equipment, the party discussed the possibility of this being used as a location for signaling. [2] In two locations an eerie, a tortured and terrifying cry was let out.

Section 4

A running retreat in the haunted house, and, the greatest wizard ever?

Down into the caverns below the haunted house we go... well not until after Ned sneaked off leaving Belizar fighting off a pack of rot rubs streaming out of a dead adventurer in the wine cellar. Ned slunk off before you could find him and Charles barreled down the stairs to support Belizar. The remainder of the party followed shortly after. The grubs were a bother indeed, but it was a near death experience when Ned returned and stabbed Mejdrich in the back before running back through the house. The party regrouped in the wine cellar and found a secret door into a makeshift barracks. Upon entering they were ambushed with a cloud of smoke and crossbow bolts. At that moment Ned came tumbling down the stairs which had been trapped with some sort of grease and fell prone. The party dispatched two of the three bandits who slipped away

with a witch bolt, who, after repeated rounds of lightning coursing through his body slumped dead. "He had it coming..." remarked Mejdrich. After finding a well kept room with various goodies, the party decided not to disturb the door sealed shut with the words DANGER marked on it.

Finally in the descent into the caverns a host of bandits were camped and ready for the party. There was smoke, grease, tight quarters (not too tight for the halfling), slime, hobgoblins, and there was Sanbalet. Shouting order, and boasting of his greatness, the Mejdrich was downed by magic missiles. The insults flew "most puny giant I have ever seen", "step on that roach of a halfling", "I spit on your rapier", and unspeakable personal attacks on Charles' peg leg. In last minute maneuver Belizar attempted to pull the party back for a retreat and to pull the door with the DANGER on the enemies. Urgor withstood countless attacks in the retreat. Yet the fighting was fierce and they only made it up to the barracks before Charles was downed (and nearly died), saved only by Seja's medicine skills. The remaining enemies, and even the great Sanbalet were killed off and the party, thick with emotions, discussed the fight.

Section 5

Contraband in the caverns, and, a disappearing alchemist?

We found the party in the barracks discussing tactics during a short rest. They, well, agreed to disagree that the foray into the sea caverns battle, and subsequent retreat was good or bad. Charles said a few last words before dropping into a coma. Belizar then scouted the remaining caverns finding what appears to be contraband (bolts of silk, casks of brandy, and morningstars with the seal of king Skotti). He also found Gerard Browning, who was tied up had been beaten. Reporting back to the group, they questioned his story -- which sounded vaguely familiar to Ned's. The party resolved to tying him up and Urgor and Mejdrich grilled him. He didn't seem to know much, claiming he was hired by a man, who he didn't see (but had a strange mannerism, ending his statements by clearing his throat), in a dark alley to scout the haunted house to see if/what the smugglers were doing here. The party then went on to open up the DANGER door finding a half dozen skeletons and a skeletal alchemist who attempted to lob vials of acid at Belizar (but missed). Clearing the skeletons, they found a secret laboratory of the alchemist who had a number of golden items and other oddities. A full search of all remaining rooms in the house commenced. Mejdrich identified a bag of holding and a cursed luckstone (which now seems to not be removable from his neck), and detected magic on a number of other items (see list below). The party setup in the barracks and barricaded the entrances. No issues through the night. Charles was healed by Seja in the morning, and seeing the weather still poor/stormy, the party decided to return to Saltmarsh with as much as they could carry. They brought 1 cask of brandy, 1 bolt of silk, and 1 morningstar to show the council. Seja walked off with another cask in hand and another was placed in the bag. The party is set to return with the pony loaded up and is on foot (Charles mounted), Gerard's hands tied up. Time is now 10:00AM in the morning, stormy weather continues.

Section 6

A test for Urgor, and, a cat, a monk and flying dookie?

After having gathered the loot (leaving the contraband in behind in the alchemist's workshop), the party found their dear pony dead under the eaves of the haunted house. A quick fight with stirges left Belizar unconscious behind the garden wall. Healed, the party left, with Charles being carried by Urgor, trudging through the muddy main road. Not long after, they sighted a rider who turned out the be Kiara Shadowbreaker, Castellan / Captain of the Burle outpost, accompanied by a second night and two wood elves. She explained that they were tracking dire wolves who were sighted leaving from Dreadwood and asked the party for a volunteer to assist this hunt -- Belizar.

Belizar and the hunting company swiftly carried out their hunt. They found two dire wolves attacked and killed the old poacher along the road. Shortly thereafter they found and ambushed the dire wolves, dispatching them. Kaira shared a few details of the situation at Dreadwood: 1) Recent incursions have picked up in pace, 2) Nightshade is some evil entity that has undead, humans, evil fey under their control and hinted that the party would be in over their heads (but would welcome information as would the wood elves), 3) In the past both she and Eliander had a hand in putting down a major threat in Dreadwood. Belizar was welcomed at Burle if he should visit in the future.

Meanwhile the party trudged along and found the remains of the poacher. Seja offered a short prayer to Yondalla, who approved of his sympathy towards the poor soul. Just before coming back into town Ingo the Drover met the party as he was on his way out to help the party and learn of its fate. He was relieved to see everyone alive. He related that Saltmarsh was in a sour mood due to the poor weather and that Gellan Primewater was planning a celebratory event should the party return (or if they should not). He also told Urgor that an illegal bare-knuckles boxing match was being held that evening and Captain Xendros was expected to be in attendance. The party decided to go and support Urgor.

The match was held at an abandoned warehouse located at Crabber's Cove, at the far East end of town. The area was eerily quiet and overrun by thousands of crabs. Entering, the party stumped the participation fee of 210gp for Urgor to compete and Ingo gave him his personal 'fighting wraps'. Three fight ensued, the first being with a Dragonborn from Xendos' company: Goraxan, who fought dirty but was roundly pummeled by Urgor, who managed to gain the favor of Xendros (Mejdrich prestidigitation-ed him and made him crap himself, which he tried to kick onto Urgor, who dodged. The dookie in question landed on Xendros...). The second match was with Nine Lives More, a Tabaxi sailor, who had a stick and move technique, and stayed mostly to the second story. Urgor brought her down by throwing a bench he ripped off the structure. The final match was with Yelena Hu, a monk, who nearly dropped Belizar before the match. But first, they drank... and drank... and drank. Although Urgor kept up with Yelena, she drank just one more swig than him, to his chagrin. Somehow the drunken monk managed to land blow after blow on Urgor, dropping him to 5hp before he could catch and squeeze her to submission. The winner, Urgor gained bracers of defense, 500gp, and a date with Xendros

Section 7

Around Saltmarsh, and, a tiefling left for dead?

Following the council meeting the group disperses to their own business, with the group agreeing to help the council neutralize the remaining smugglers if/when they return to the haunted house by boat. They expected roughly 1 to 2 weeks of time before it was likely to sight the ship, judging by the contraband found at the Haunted House.

Mejdrich approaches both Seja and Urgor regarding their quests and offers help; Seja with interpreting his vision and Urgor with studying his artifact if Urgor ever finds it and any relevant information in Keledek's tower.

Seja makes a trip to the armor to adjust the mariner's mail and purchase a shield. He stops in Gerard at the Empty Net who asks to be set free following (i.e. not having to answer to the council and meet who-ever was in the alley), Seja refuses.

Belizar meanwhile is asked by Gellan Primewater to retrieve a former crew on a boat that was thought lost in the recent storm, nearby the Carrion Archipelago. Prior to leaving he meets up with Gerard and agrees after all to free him, even giving him a few coins to get provisions to get back to Seaton. Gerard offers Belizar safe lodgings in Seaton if needed. Belizar sneakily follows Gerard after he lets him go but does not see anything unusual. Belizar sets off first thing in the morning on the Ruby Pearl a two masted trade-ship captained by Vario.

Charles suggests to Urgor that joining the town guard, through Eliander, might be a good way to earn a coin. Urgor doesn't want to be tied down in one location and refuses help in getting a job. Nonetheless, he visits Eliander, in hopes of gaining access to his library, which apparently holds a large collection of books of local history, and clues to where Arkon Demoncarver may have been. Eliander says he doesn't allow access to strangers and refuses.

Seja returns to the Temple of Procan to find the head cleric, Wellgar Brinehanded, and asks him if he's had a chance to think about Seja's vision. Wellgar recognizes the two giant runestones and says that the standing stones at the edge of town might be it. He offers to take Seja there, but has been underwater with two issues: dozens of workers coming to the temple from the fishmonger's district blinded and reports of an imp-like creature stealing salted fish from the warehouses, suspected to come from the Warthakeel ruins. Seja agrees to investigate and stakes out the district over the evening with a young town guard recruit, Frederick. Although the perpetrators are not found, a substance later discovered to be a powerful version of "malice", a burned poison, which causes blindness was found to be put into the lanterns at the warehouses.

Belizar does his best to fit in with the crew on the Ruby Pearl, which he finds to be impeccably run. He challenges some of the crew to a race around the boat, narrowly losing to the top rigger of the crew. He learns about some of the threats on the sea and how to identify them. Smooth sailing as the weather improves.

Urgor goes to the Saltmarsh cemetery to try and find Krag, a half-orc who tends it and is a scholar of local history. He surveys the grounds and as the sun goes down is approached by Krag, who is well-mannered and academic. They enjoy a cup of tea under candlelight at the shack at the end of the grounds while Krag carefully writes down Urgor's story. Unfortunately Krag does not know of Arkon, but suggests Eliander's library or talking to Captain Xendros who leads the trade delegation for Iuz. He says that earning Eliander's trust is key to gaining access, but offers to contact Urgor if anything is found in his own studies.

With the thefts and cases of blindness continuing, Seja makes for Warthalkeel ruins, stopping to stay over in Seaton. He sees Ingo the Drover at the haunted house along the way, observing the coast. Once in Seaton, he finds it to be heavily fortified and avoids entering the inner part that is protected by walls, instead staying quietly at a temple of Pelor. The priestess there tells him of the story of Warthakeel which was, many years ago, dedicated to worshiping a Kraken, but at some point was destroyed by that Kraken and was knocked into the sea. The next morning, on the way out, he sights Gerard in Seaton and confronts him. Gerard explains what happens, and to return the favor, agrees to assist Seja given he has some knowledge of the area. The two head out to after Gerard gears up.

The Ruby Pearl approaches the islands and begins searching for signs of the Crescent, Gellan's lost ship. Belizar learns more about how the ships operate in the Primewater company. After a half day of searching, the wreckage is found. The ship is destroyed and only a segment of its starboard hull and aft castle remain, stranded on the rock. Luckily the crew member, Kell -- a sea mage, is found on a nearby island. He explains that the ship, battered in the storm, was then attacked by a blue dragon in the area and is the only known survivor. Belizar leads the rescue. Kell also requests that Captain Vario take him to the tower of Zenopus to fulfill a job for Gellan, who agrees.

Urgor then makes a visit to Captain Xendros, who's operation is very busy loading salted fish for delivery to the Domain of Iuz. He shares insults with Goraxan, the dragonborn who he sparred with previously in the bare knuckles match. Xendros finds him and discusses his quest in more detail. He learns more about the methods of Iuz and its people. She offers creating an item for him that would assist in information, or offering to sell him a few powerful magic items. They make a deal and she orders the item created. Urgor then visits the docks and approaches a ship's captain of the Iridescent, to learn more about cartography and navigation. The captain and quartermaster offer to teach Urgor periodically. He also visits the mariner's guild and learns more about the surrounding lands and seaways.

Arriving at the cliffs of Warthalkeel, Seja and Gerard descend and dive down to find the ruins. They find the stories of Warthalkeel to be mostly true and try to avoid running into too many hazards. They meet an undead hag named Yalaga, who still worships the Kraken and told of the downfall. A priest had shown up and converted worshipers to Procan, but secretly worshiped a god to Slaughter -- the Kraken showed up and took vengeance, which apparently was the whole point for the priest. Anyway, Seja found the temple of procan and fought off mud mephits to find a portal opened that was summoning them, which they destroyed. He reports back to the Temple to share the good news with Wellgar. Wellgar takes Seja to the standing stones.

The Ruby Pearl sailed to the tower of Zenopus, south of Saltmarsh and Kell recruited Belizar and two others who volunteered to join him. They disembarked the main ship and sailed ashore with the goods. When they arrived, the deal went wrong and they were forced to retreat with their lives. By coincidence, as they were jumping on their jolly boat, Belizar sighted two nearly dead tieflings being hauled to the tower by goblins, and intervened to dispatch them. They brought the tieflings onboard and returned to the main ship. One had died and was thrown overboard, the other, Darcaym, was saved by Belizar with a potion of healing. Vario sent Darcaym to the brig after he refused to tell him further details of his origin or purpose. Overnight the crew attacked Darcaym and left him unconscious. It was agreed that Belizar would take responsibility over Darcaym and would take him to a safe house in Saltmarsh, which Vario has allowed Belizar and friends to stay indefinitely.

Visiting Mejdrich Urgor, he learns from him that there was an Archmage Zenopus who helped Keoland expand it's borders long ago but later defected and helped the Sea Princes carve out their own land (from Keoland). He also learns that there was a commander Eliander involved in some battles in the past connected to Dreadwood. Mejdrich tells Urgor of some challenges selling the loot from the Haunted House. Leaving to visit Krag again, Urgor resolves a potential brawl between the the dwarves and a mob of locals. Running into Eliander coincidentally, he asks Urgor to visit Burle on his behalf.

While Darcaym lay unconscious Belizar tracked down Seja, Urgor (and Mejdrich -- who refused to help) to the safehouse. Seja healed Darcaym.

Section 8

A boarding party, and, the unnecessary killing of a tiny dragon?

The party reconvenes at the safe house after a week apart on their separate journeys. Missing a caster, and luckily finding Darcaym in their midst, they invite him to join. In an unknown land, he agrees. Urgor informs the group that the smugglers have just been sighted off the bluffs and the party checks in with the city council. Darcaym transforms himself into a nondescript robed human and Belizar fends of Eliander's questioning about their new party member. The council authorizes the party to finish off the smugglers and find out where the weapons are being taken. Seja makes a strong argument for greater healing potions which pisses off Manistrad a little bit. The party leaves after a brief shopping session in town. Mason and Frederick, town guards, join the party for support and they set off on horses borrowed from Eliander.

Making good time the party arrives at the haunted house and stake out the sea off the bluffs, looking for any signals. A healthy discussion on tactics ends with a plan to try to board the ship peacefully with Darcaym acting as Sanbalet and getting the jump on the crew, or avoiding bloodshed. Urgor makes a cryptic proclamation and then quietly sits by himself until bedtime. Seja waits at the signal room and around midnight receives a signal. Using the messaging system they found earlier, he responds to the ship and they prepare their boarding party. Frederick stays to guard the horses, while Mason plans to stay on the small boat they intend to use to get to the main vessel. Darcaym uses gust of wind to speed up the journey.

Nearing the ship, the party sights three crewmen on deck who agree to do a little gambling with Belizar and Darcaym before getting to work loading the cargo. A quick game, one of the crewmen excitedly cheers when he "wins", only to be put to sleep by a spell from Darcaym. Thinking everyone had fallen asleep, Seja slips that he needs a rope to tie them up -- the battle begins when the remaining crewman draws his sword and the Captain of emerges from below decks to find they were boarded! Acting quickly, Urgor knocks out the remaining crewman and disables the deck ballista while Belizar sprints over to the doors to seal them off. A flurry of shouting and movement below decks is heard and the tie-offs are tested. Soon, the battle is joined by the crew including Bloody Bjorn, the Bosun, and deck wizard. Darcaym casually throws two of the sleeping crew off the side of the ship to their death. A sniper shoots crossbow bolts from the crows nest and three lizard men and a tiny dragon join the fray. Urgor and Seja hold the line against the majority of the crew, taking damage but giving it out all the same. Darcaym sends a flaming chromatic orb at the wizard, forcing him to hide at the other end of the ship before being gutted from behind by Belizar who desperately tries to appeal to the dragon to stop fighting. Seja goes toe to toe with the captain but eventually goes berserk and kills him and the tiny dragon before Darcaym can put him to sleep. The battle ends as the last lizard man and Bloody Bjorn concede the fight.

With the battle won, all that can be heard are the heavy breaths of the survivors, splashes from the waves lapping up against the hull, and a snoring Seja, covered in the pulpy aftermath of the captain and the dragon.

Section 9

The Sea Ghost cleared, and, Mason fed to the sharks? part 1/2

After an epic fight with the smugglers on the Sea Ghost, the party emerged victorious and set about clearing the decks. They were surprised in the wizards quarters as two suits of animated armor jumped them and nearly took out Urgor. Down to no spells, the party decided to sail out to sea and hunker down to rest. Seja's god Yondalla revealed that his morningstar was cursed. On the late evening, the party then searched the remaining ship compartments finding a stash of more weapons meant for the lizardfolk, along with contraband including wine, brandy, silks, and fine mining equipment. A letter found in the Captains desk confirmed deliveries of 'iron goods' had been going for some time. A crude map found indicated the tribe was located at the mouth of a river in the hook marshes, about 20 miles by land from Saltmarsh to the south. Gorn Ironhide, the lizardman that was captured asked for his freedom or death. He described an upcoming big fight and that the tribe would prevail, but after being threatened by Darcaym, refused to say who they would fight against. A sea elf Oceanus, was found shackled and was freed by the party. He had been tracking the ship for his tribe when he was captured. He was trying to figure out the meaning of the ship's irregular travel around this part of the coast. He was appreciative of the hospitality provided by the party and asked to try to support the party as they learned more. He said that their tribe had been on cordial terms with lizardfolk in the past, and even traded with them from time to time, but not Gorn's tribe. The party agreed to let Gorn go near the marshes. Bloody Bjorn, the first mate offered information for freedom, but the party didn't trust him and decided to bring him back to Saltmarsh.

Section 10

The Sea Ghost cleared, and, Mason fed to the sharks? part 2/2

Section 11

Priorities, and, the council ponders war?

• There was general unease with the people on the council. Urgor thought Eliander could be trusted. Seja and Belizar said that Gellan might be doing some smuggling, but they should be careful revealing anything and think of the politics of doing so.
• The Tower of Zenopus was related to Keledek the Unspoken. In Belizar's last side quest, Kell, a sea mage, was bringing dead bodies to a contact of Keledek, located at the tower. Some of these bodies turned into zombies. Further undead involvement was assumed.
• Belizar asked about Darcaym's origins and his plans/goals. He didn't say too much (he didn't know how he got to Zenopus) but DID mention that he may have to do some things that he cannot explain why. He said that he either had to save or damn a bunch of souls.
• Party discussed the need to talk with the mariner's guild more about the Sahuagin and learn about what they know.
• Blood Bjorn -- Darcaym was tasked with guarding him while they sailed back and Bjorn tried to make him a deal. Darcaym promised he would live if he told Eliander the whole truth. Arriving in saltmarsh, the plan was to bring Eliander on the ship and ask him to question Bjorn first, as the rest of the council was 'not to be trusted'. As it worked out, once news of Mason was received, Eliander was very saddened and told the party to just bring him and the boat into Saltmarsh and that he would interrogate him while in jail at Saltmarsh. Darcaym made a plea to not kill him, but Eliander said he'd have to have compelling evidence that Bjorn should not be sentenced for his crimes.
• At this point Seja explained that he is having trouble maintaining control and needs to go see Wellgar for healing/treatment -- leaving all other matters in the hands of the party. Frederick left with him.
• Urgor revealed an amulet embedded in his chest and explained that shard of a wizard named Yahui was in there and could contact him telepathically. Urgor said that he was quite knowledgeable and would answer his questions. Urgor asked about the curse that Seja was affected with.

• Urgor enjoyed the festival and ran into Lankus Kurrid, the owner of the Wicker Goat. He informed Urgor that his bill for his room was past due and recent tax hikes in the Kingdom increased the amount. Urgor paid double the estimate (50gp). He made a quick stop at the Blacksmith and met with Mafera who sold him a long-sword. Arriving early at the meeting, Urgor entered and made his acquaintance with Espira Burnside, the commander of the crown military forces at Seaton.
• Urgor enjoyed the festival and ran into Lankus Kurrid, the owner of the Wicker Goat. He informed Urgor that his bill for his room was past due and recent tax hikes in the Kingdom increased the amount. Urgor paid double the estimate (50gp). He made a quick stop at the Blacksmith and met with Mafera who sold him a long-sword. Arriving early at the meeting, Urgor entered and made his acquaintance with Espira Burnside, the commander of the crown military forces at Seaton.
• Urgor enjoyed the festival and ran into Lankus Kurrid, the owner of the Wicker Goat. He informed Urgor that his bill for his room was past due and recent tax hikes in the Kingdom increased the amount. Urgor paid double the estimate (50gp). He made a quick stop at the Blacksmith and met with Mafera who sold him a long-sword. Arriving early at the meeting, Urgor entered and made his acquaintance with Espira Burnside, the commander of the crown military forces at Seaton.

• Anders proposed creating a zone of avoidance for commerce around the marsh for the time being.
• Darcaym pleaded for the release of Bjorn. The council agreed to a vote, but ultimately Eliander argument prevailed -- he would be hanged soon for the smuggling of Royal property.
• Manistrad suggested reinforcing the static defenses in Saltmarsh, but only after the threat was known (due to expenses). Eliander suggested increasing the size of the town guard from 20 to 25 and the marines from 8 to 15. Both these resolutions needed further discussion among the council. Eliander also noted that he needed to recruit for a new constable following Mason's death.
• Ownership of the Untamed Tempest was discussed. The party suggested that they ought to get it. Espira Burnside discussed the military need for vessels and claimed ownership. The party suggested that they could act on behalf of Saltmarsh defense (which lacked a significant navy). The council agreed to discuss further.

Section 12

Introducing "The Servants", and, a really great evening with Gellan?

1. Perception/Politics -- to improve the perception of the party he suggested a "brand name" that the people and Leadership of Saltmarsh could get behind and who would, with conviction, protect Saltmarsh when called upon. The party landed on "The Servant" and agreed they would. He advised them to accept a small contingent from Seaton of marines to serve on the vessel to appease Espira. Gellan told the party that if they could get Eliander on their side, the council could be convinced, and that this would be the key.
2. Bureaucracy -- The merchant guild requires a lengthy and costly process to get high enough membership to own and operate a vessel. Gellan's grandfathered agreement could be used to get around this. He'd need to do the formal hiring of crew in order to do this.
3. Finances -- maintenance, crew, repairs, supplies, improvements, and mooring were all expensive. He estimated 200-400gp in repairs, 100gp/mo mooring, 50gp/day for crew and supplies. Gellan would help secure the logistics of operating the ship in return for their assistance trading (since he's just lost a vessel). He assured them all business would be legal, but the ship had to turn a profit. The party could use the boat for adventuring or their other business as they saw fit.

Section 13

A tiefling gone an elf introduced, and, a diplomatic entry?

• Seja was busy crafting poisons for the evening
• The group decided that the quest to find Ander's ship that was recently sighted adrift would have to wait -- and so with it, lifting Seja's curse.
• Urgor and Belizar meanwhile went discuss the ship with Eliander. After some discussion, Urgor convinced Eliander to support their bid to take ownership over the boat, with the stipulation that they would take on the marines from Seaton. The party promised the ship would not become a financial burden on Saltmarsh and would serve to protect it from seaborn threats when called upon. Eliander said he would let them know how the council meeting goes on their return.
• Belizar saw Gellan who asked him to disable the animated armor guarding the ship, there was no way to undertake repairs and alterations safely until they are calmed.
• While at the Hoolwatch tower, Belizar saw Charles taking down notes on an apparent scene of a crime. Last night at the jail, Darcaym met with Bloody Bjorn and sat with him for hours. Charles thought it was "a rather pathetic affair" as Darcaym methodically asked about Bjorn's every misdeed and pleaded with him be better. Finally, Darcaym left, asking where to find a horse, and Charles locked up the jail behind him. The next morning Charles found Bjorn dead with three large black holes in his neck, with three darts found in the cell. After inquiring at Winston's general store, where he went to buy a horse, it seems that Darcaym was nowhere to be found.
• Belizar and Urgor followed up with Winston, who, after a few gold, mentioned that Darcaym mentioned Kiara Shadowbreaker, Burle, and Niole Dra. He sold Darcaym his best horse with gear and a couple weeks worth of rations as well as a map of Keoland
• Eliander also introduced Elluin, a wood-elf druid, who was recommended by Kiara Shadowbreaker and has asked to help the party. The party agreed and they got to know each other over several meals at the Wicker Goat Tavern. Elluin stayed in a nearby grove of trees that clearly had a druid tending it.

• In hawk form, Elluin spotted A blue dragon and winged kobolds chasing several large Pteranodons over an archipelago in the distance. The party decided to settle down in a cove at the Tower of Zenopus until this resolved.
• In hawk form, Elluin spotted A blue dragon and winged kobolds chasing several large Pteranodons over an archipelago in the distance. The party decided to settle down in a cove at the Tower of Zenopus until this resolved.

Section 14

Courting the Lizardfolk, and, Dead by the Bullywugs?

1. SAURIV -- Sauriv also mentioned that it was he who arranged the purchase of the weapons (unbeknownst to him that they were stolen), and arranged to meet the other sea races. He told the party that land-dwellers were generally not thought of as that effective against Sahaugin, but was open to the possibility of allying. The party would need to convince the other groups in order sway the Queen.
2. WARRIORS -- They found several the warriors in the kitchen. Although the first group nearly mistook them as intruders, the second group was more social. Seja was given the name of Zundae (mirthful/joker), for some good jokes. Between the drinking, discussion of tactics, and a gift from Seja of three longswords, they found the party good company. However, the boasting of martial prowess was met with a challenge for Urgor to personally to defeat Thousand Teeth -- a powerful giant crocodile they cannot kill (due to a restriction from their god) but has been terrorizing the marsh.
3. COMMONERS -- Commoners were playing with their hatchlings when the party arrived. The young ones took to the music and dancing of Belizar and Seja. The party learned that they felt less safe in their current location versus the old home. Many hatchlings were orphaned when the Sahaugin attacked. They also spoke of threats in the swamp -- Ogres, trolls, bandits, bullywugs, and Thousand Teeth. They suggested that Thousand Teeth was very powerful and would require 10 or more to bring down. Urgor was called Uthrax (growing) and Belizar Mirik (song).
4. SHAMAN -- Several shaman in the temple were praying to their God Semuanya when the party arrived. It was clear that they, unlike others in the tribe, did not want an alliance to other races, saying that it would displease their god. Self-reliance and survival were highly valued. They were pretty much outright racists against other races. They mentioned that Bullywugs had stolen a magical artifact from them in -- a helm of underwater breathing -- and would like it returned. They also mentioned Thousand teeth. Finally, they offered to help Seja remove his berserker curse, but he would need to sacrifice an enemy to Semuanya and draw some of his own blood.
5. Sea-races - the party questioned each of the prospective alliance members about their forces, experience with the Sahuagin, and answered questions about Saltmarsh.
   
   1. Sea-elves (Kelpy) - Kelpy explained that he had just arrived, later than the other groups because the Kaolinths had previously been asked to join the alliance (and they would not ally with the sea-elves under any circumstance). With this relationship breaking down, the sea-elves approached the lizardfolk. He was tired and didn't offer much information other than the sea elves were concerned about the Sahaugin, and asked about the military capabilities of Saltmarsh.
   2. Merfolk - The merfolk here were previously refugees from a faraway sea and joined with another clan that lives near some islands nearby. They noted that the Suahagin had grown more aggressive of late and see them as a threat.
   3. Locathah - The locathah were nomads but managed to establish a small village in the kelp forests nearby. They were quite skittish. Their people have been slaves to many races and weren't all to unhappy with it if the nature of the slavery was not too severe. Nonetheless, the Sahuagin were seen as killers and had threatened their people.
   4. Kaolinth (Sea goblins) - Little discussion occured here. They were unhappy with the Queen suggesting the sea-elves might be approached and broke off discussion with the lizardfolk. They were preparing to leave when the party questioned them. They would not speak to Belizar. Urgor who mentioned that the sea-elves would be fighting the Sahuagin and would be victors in the upcoming battle, to which the Sahaugin said they would be expecting that many may also die and this would leave the sea-elves weaker.

Bullywugs

Section 15

Seja's sacrifice, and, ticks in the swamp.

The sacrifice

The trek through the swamp

Nectrotic ticks and zombies

Section 16

A Thousand Teeth removed, and, an ambush in the night.

Thousand teeth

An accusation over the stolen artefact

Sahaugin on the loose & saving the queen

Section 17

Return to Saltmarsh, and, the start of an alliance?

A Party Meeting

Keelboat Ride Home

Questioning Oceanus

Getting to know Ivar and Lorys a little better at the Grove of Obad-Hai

• Dreadwood has been expanding over the years -- covering more land.
• It was formerly a weak entry point to the feywild (that’s how Ivar came here many years ago). Now it is more associated with shadowfell, and the evil creatures in feywild. An evil hag now rules there.
• A place of darkness and dreams (nightmares).
• Most of the fair creatures have been killed or driven out. Though it has been said that several moon druids still try to tend the forest and fight off the evil creatures. (Hiding from them is more likely)

• Little news of that forest. Feywild history.
• Since the Battle of Sheldomar Valley, has been cursed. This a battle many years ago between various forces of the Abyss and the Nine Hells which occurred. The Shedlomar valley is the wide basin between the mountains where Keoland is.

A Run-in with Dallah Thuan at the standing stones

Courting Kiora

The Council Meeting

Clearing the Abbey Isle

• The island is strategically located SW of Saltmarsh and could be used for defense and/or commerce
• It has been known to have an abbey to some wicked god and has been avoided by Saltmarsh as long as anyone can remember. There are rumours of undead.
• The Mariner's guild has reported that the Abbey seems to have been assaulted and has been ruined.
• The council thinks that this might be a good opportunity to claim this island and would therefore like the party to clear it first.
• Manistrad also mentioned privately that the Copperlocks Clan has an old story of a very large gem that was found there and thus thinks there could be some good mining.

The Repairs underway with the Untamed Tempest & the business

• The upper deck was complete and the party could stay on the Untamed Tempest if they chose to do so.
• Gellan returned the animated armor coin
• Repairs will cost 400gp and will be complete in about 1 1/2 weeks.
• Around half the crew has been hired (10 sailors), the 5 royal mariners from Seaton are now in Saltmarsh and ready to board, and a cook (Yarn the Butcher, from Ander's staff). Finally, Frederick has devised a net system to be used on the ship and has been hired as the cabin boy.
• The party confirmed their deal with Gellan and agreed that there was some risk involved. He suggested the party think of themselves as a company and keep a joint treasury. Finally the party calculated the costs involved and came up with 15,000 gp / year to operate the ship. Gellan said that he's made double that amount easy on a ship like this per year.
• Last, Gellan asked to split the cost for commissioning of Books of Sending, which allows writing in one book to be immediately seen in the other book and has no range limit. The total cost would be 1000gp and the party would need to provide 500gp. The party agreed to commission this with Mejdrich/Keledek.

Section 18

Clues of Arkon, Seja's Prayers, An unexpected reunion, and, a battle at the beach?

Namaneed's visit

Keledek's tower, part I

Stopping in to see Xendros

Prayers at the Temple of Procan

Belizar meets his dad, Eda, no... Thadius

Krag uncovers some ancient history

Keledek's tower, part II

• Some past battles in the region involving a "Great" Champion --- which meant both in strength and size
• The champion was killed in these battles
• The battles occurred around Burle and Dreadwood
• Some of the Champions remains were taken by the infernal forces to the town of Leej (which is located at the base of the Tower of Zenopus).

Section 19

The Raid of Saltmarsh

Slaughter at Green Market

One hell of a first day

The immediate aftermath

• Nine Lives met the party. Later Gellan showed up and told them that she was hired due to some special skills and would be the chief Mystery Liaison when not on the boat (specifics around the split in findings were to be discussed later)
• A quick assessment of town found around 50 or so villagers killed, 10 guards, 5 marines (and captains), 1 keelboat, and a half-dozen other boats. King Skotti's Trident was damaged worse than the Untamed Tempest, both would require additional repairs. The partially built guard tower in Crabber's cove was burnt down and several guards killed over there.
• Belizar checked in on Eda, Namaneed, and Kiora, all of which were not hurt during the raid.
• Gellan showed up and was urged by the party to address the raid ASAP... they provided some ideas. He said a council meeting would be held as soon as things were brought to order.
• The party also found Eliander who granted them a few precious moments. They told him that working with the lizardfolk to monitor the underwater area in Saltmarsh might be a good idea. Additionally, they asked that the council consider stocking foodstuffs to distract/throw off the Sahaugin if they were interested in feeding AND that the boats should be covered in copper plates for protection. Eliander promised to bring these things up.
• Elliun arrived at the boat after the battle and missed out on all the fighting. He told the party that he had other business to attend to around something he had learned about the undead presence in the area. He said he could be reached via the druid in the Sea Grove to Obad-Hai if need be. Finally, he noted that he wishes to accompany the part should they visit the Tower of Zenopus.
• At the market, Seja found many hurt and dying. He took up treating and healing the wounded. Offering prayers to Yondalla, he (literally) fell asleep with exhaustion with this task. The others offered to help with any needs as well.
• Meeting Oceanus, a sea-elf, for the first time, Nine Lives nearly attacked thinking it was another Malenti Spy. Belizar stepped in and defused the situation before any blood was spilled. Oceanus explained that Sahaugin have a perchance for mutation, Nine suggested he go without pants...

Section 20

Charles leads the investigation, a procession, and Ingo's past

An Investigation of the Raid

• Green Market, Weekly Market, Sea Vessels, Oceanus Jhank and Usk, Burnt Tower in Crabber's Cove
• Target – mostly citizens. 15 killed, 20 wounded.
• Only 5 guards on site when they arrived. Half the Sahuagin were pulling bodies in the water. Other half slaughtering us.
• Insight: Sahaugin seem to lose some control when they sight blood -- get viscous.
• They seem to leave when confronted with major resistance.
• Biggest force of Sahaugin -- est. 30 at peak. 10 were killed
• 30 people killed here, 60 wounded.
• Big mess around stalls. Some goods were stolen (Jewelry, clubs & shortswords, clothing). No one saw looters.
• Good Sahuagin specimens for inspection. Three types: "Champions", big blue ones that were 1.5 ft taller and 30-50 heavier. "Coral Smashers" seemed specialized in wrecking things from coral to ships. On In addition to their crude warhammers, they also have sharp, hardened bone protrusions along their arms and legs. Same size as the normal warriors.
• Belizar beheaded one and dropped it off at Kiora's to preserve -- she wasn't disgusted...
• Jhank and Usk wet helped recover the Marines bodies. They were not impressed by the marines.
• No Sahuagin remains or corpses under the water from the skirmish, they must have taken when they left. No sign of them now.
• Jhank and Usk followed them for a time and they seemed to be making a beeline to their former home. Came back, couldn’t keep up. They were headed out to Sea.
• says that since the Malenti is still alive – he needs to contact his people ASAP. They are happy to setup a regular liaison with Saltmarsh when there is any info. Party agreed to tell the council of this.
• No citizens killed. 4 guards killed. They not thrashed up like other guards. Less blood splattered everywhere, lots of piercing wounds, stabs. No bodies were dragged. Acid damage on two of them, burned through the armor and skin. Eyes have what look like a trace of some ash (Seja recognizes this from previous episode of blinding).
• Tower still smoldering – down to the stone base.
• Party agreed to keep this peculiarities a secret and tell (acid, fire) only Eliander. Charles would follow up on this.

The Council Meeting

1. PASSED -- (Eliander proposed) Increased watch militia. Already sent word to Seaton for contingent of marines. Ingo and his crew have been hired on contract to bolster the guard.
2. PASSED -- (Eliander) Some of the Militia will be pressed into permanent duty. Eda/Anders/Gellan note that there will be economics implications. Considering regular training to better equip common citizens.
3. PASSED -- (All) Formalize alliance with Lizardfolk, Sea Elves, Locathah, Merfolk. Plan an attack on the Sahaugin.
4. PASSED, then REVOKED -- (All) ASAP trade weapons to Lizard folk. Further discussion: no formal trade arrangement, needs the Ironhide tribe to formally take King Skotti as sovereign.) No workaround...
5. PASSED -- (All) Usk and Jhank will be hired to watch the bay
6. FAILED -- (Eliander) Using copper to line ships. No money to spare for such frivolities (Manistrad), and the optics (Anders)
7. PASSED -- (Gellan) Procession planned that evening for for the Lost
8. FAILED -- (Eliander, for Belizar) Move town inland until defenses can be shored up.
9. PASSED -- (Eliander) Store of fish meat in the harbor to put off potential future attacks. Eda –- who is going to pay for that?

1. Contact Kiara Shadowbreaker in Burle. Inform her of the attack and to request any military support.
2. Secure Abbey Isle. Need to talk with the Mariner's Guild.

The Procession

The Mariner's Guild

• As long as anyone can remember there’s been an Abbey on the Isle that’s known to be cursed. There are rumors of precious items or gold on the island, but nothing confirmed.
• Island is about 1 mile long, 1/2 mile wide with tall cliffs nearly all around it.
• Various mariners have verified that there was smoke seen from the Abbey around 1 week ago. Why? Who knows, but it seems that whatever lived in that abbey is now weakened.
• Sent a force of soldiers who did not venture far, and finished off a pirate they saw. The remaining pirates fled on ship and were not pursued. They don't know who the pirates are.
• The only safe approach is a beach called the Skull Dunes (reefs). The Abbey is (was) located in the center of the island somewhere.
• Major Ursa, a contact from the guild, keeps a lighthouse on an island nearby may provide additional information to whomever takes the contract.
• 1200gp reward.

Boat Business

• The damage from the battle will add a couple of days to repairs. He's increased the wages of the workers to make sure they don't get persuaded to work elsewhere.
• He will make plans to stock up on some food that can be used to through the Sahuagin off if pursued at sea.
• He will look into costs and time to plate the ship in copper.
• The Seaton Marines will arrive tomorrow -- while the ship is under repair, they will be kept busy guarding it.
• Gellan has shortlisted a couple of potential captains that he wants the party input on, when time allows. Can decide a little later.
• Namaneed was hired on to the crew.
• When asked, he did not know anything further about the Abbey Isle but suggested the party look out for any potential business interests while there.
• He spoke in more detail to the party about Nine Lives. As a member of the crew, she'll have duties while the ship is at sea, but in her capacity as Mystery Liaison, can be asked to join the party in adventures. He also mentioned that she has previously worked for Anders, so might know something regarding his business, which could be lucrative.
• Gellan also spoke with Belizar regarding some other business.

Urgor chats with Ingo

• Ingo was a former general that had actually fought in those battles.
• Though it was hard to remember what happened, both because it was so long ago and because he's tried to put it out of his mind, he remembered that battles were horrible - So much death and so much Ingo caused of it. Recalling the past he seemed miserable and said he had a lot to make up for. Ingo has done terrible deeds, he may never repay his debt to humanity, and will probably go to hell.
• Ingo Knew Arkon. He was a sight to behold. Stood over 10 ft’ and was built like a "Northern Steer". No shackle could hold him down. Seemed grow in battle. Ingo was genuinely afraid to be in Arkon's presence.
• Arkon led the Shard which was a cult to Mephistopheles, archdevil in the Nine Hells. Ingo’s soul was pledged to Arkon.
• Mephistopheles gave Ingo unnaturally long life.
• The battle was actually three sided, though remembered in Keoland as a victory of Keolish forces over Dreadwood. In fact, the Shard had led an attack into Dreadwood but it had been stopped. By Nightshade. He thinks it was Nightshade the fell Arkon.
• After the battle Ingo’s troops dispersed. Paavo Horncarver was another Goliath general who was actually there at the end and hasn’t been seen since, presumably his troops dispersed too.
• Ingo knew Horncarver – he was extremely ambitious and had his own deals with Meph. Horncarver was around Arkon since the beginning, his oldest general. He was brutal and loved dominating his foes. Hasn’t seen him in years, and that battle changed everything.
• He said that if the party was going to the Drowned Forest that were weak points to Shadowfell there -- where hope gives out and shadow crossings spit out some fell beast or another. He also warned to guard your souls...
• Ingo declined to join the party.

Section 21

Burle and The Drowned Forest part 1/2

Arriving in Burle

Preparation to Leave

Section 22

Burle and The Drowned Forest part 2/2

Days and Nights in the Forest

Section 23

Ever Darker in the Drowned Forest, and, a Deal with the Devil

Seja the Unfettered, the Glittering Reckoning to Tyrants

A long night

On the trail and a Shadowfell crossing

Hunted, Again

Lady Damyiara's Offer

Section 24

Lady of the Lake

Rotten Ethyl on the lake

An Imp nibbling on rations

Turn back. You will not be warned again

A Cloak next to the Crypt of the Last of the Holt

Section 25

Defenders of the Holt, Turning the tables on the Hunters

Crypt of the Last of the Holt

• I Will not rest until the corruption leaves Silver Holt
• Pledge my life and soul to purge this evil
• My sword, my faith, my honor, and my life for the Holt
• While others may flee, I enter the darkness to destroy the foes of the forest

• The "Holt" is a part of Silverwood. It is now called the "Drowned Forest" but at one time it was one with Silverstrand.
• The Silverwood Elves once lived here and tended the Holt. They kept other creatures at bay: orcs, goblins, gnolls and their ilk.
• At some point, a blight appeared and began infecting the whole forest. They didn't know the source.
• The elves allowed in a Goliath (Arkon) and his small band who promised to end the rot.
• They seemed to be successful and it subsided briefly only to come back as strong as ever.
• The elves learned that the Shard had been created and was a cult to Mephistopheles. They had restored an old ruined fortress in the Forest and were raising an army.
• The elves tried to fight them off, but most ended up retreating to Silverstrand --- the area closer to Burle. Aven and Tanya led those that remained to defend the Holt.
• The elves of Silverstrand responded to the threat of the Shard by cutting off the water supply to the forest by diverting the river. In response, the Shard used some foul magic to sink the forest, making it even bleaker.
• The defenders of the Holt were not particularly successful. Many died fighting the Shard. Facing defeat, Aven and Tanya made a vow revenge and appealed to Corellon Larethian.
• Aven and Tanya attacked the fortress, but failed. They were then bound to the crypt until the leader of the Shard was destroyed.
• Over the years, there have been a number of champions who made similar vows, none successful. They now guard the crypt as Spectral Guardians.
• ven and Tanya offered magical items to help any who would take the vow of vengeance on their behalf:
  • Daemora's Retribution - a magical battleaxe
  • Aven's Mithril Chainmail

Ambushing the Hunters

A shrine in a pool of ooze

Section 26

Dogs

The Shrine of Mephistopheles

A cave entrance

Dogs, no, not those dogs... bigger ones.

Section 27

Rats in the `Sunken Shard' and Conquering of the Kitchen Staff

Worg's Bane & The Roper

The Hunter's Abode

1. The hunter was often gone weeks at a time, presumably in the forest
2. Each entry noted at least one creature, some of which sounded familiar to the party. Also, how long they were tracked and a resolution - i.e. killed, warned...
3. Some entries noted "slayers", these creatures were not killed by the hunter and tended to be nastier.
4. Some entries noted humanoids that were either taken in for sacrifice or recruited

The Sunker Shard - Fortress of the Shard

Section 28

An interesting room, and, a big fight ensues

The Room with the Plants

• Water is dripping into the barrels
• There is a bright white object at the bottom of the central basin. The liquid in the basin seems to clear and drinkable. Belizar took a big drink and was greatly refreshed.
• The relief on the wall was partially inspected -- the first three depicted scenes of:
  • A large humanoid standing triumphantly in the middle of a tribe in the mountains. Scores of others from nearby villages were coming to his village
  • The same person holding two gleaming swords overhead, while entering a forest.
  • The same person slaying a dragon and entering a fortress partially buried underground.

Section 29

Ma Crackfist Crushes

Eying Nine Lives, Ma whipped her flail forward as she ducked under the singing blades. The three spiked heads slammed down, sending the tabaxi into a maddened frenzy. Retaliating, Nine stabbed. The slices and cuts opened wounds that send blood over both Ma and Nine. Another swing of the flail and Nine's vision blurred and she sensed herself somehow in a stinking pack of wild dogs, somewhere else.

Fighting on all fronts, Urgor brought both his weapons to bear upon the massive branch blight that was pinning down Jermaine. Each attack was accompanied with a thunk and a small cloud of bark and fragments as he cleaved through. Spitting and sputtering, he did everything to turn the attention of the blight -- distracted, it swung its branches through midair. With a final blow, Urgor's enemy fell and he dashed to Gnoll.

Belizar's scimitar Ilumina slashed through the vines of the blight that held him. To be held in one place, unmoving, was the worst fate for the swashbuckler who was accustomed to battles involving dashing and slashing, feints and ripostes. The swarms of rats coming out of the woodwork made it worse. Dancing, stomping and diving he evaded one swarm, running into another. Swerving, Belizar swung his blade in a flurry as he passed by, leaving a smear of rat gore. Another swarm, this one bigger. As he leveled his blade, Ma mumbled some unholy magic under her breath, her cape flittering, and then pointed at a rat next to him. A crunch and a wooshing sound later, the rat grew. Its proportions changed and its wee beady black eyes had an intelligence that wasn't there a second ago. "You" Ma pointed at Belizar. He saw it all though. The mutant rat-thing slashed left and right, Belizar dodged and then Illumina struck and for good measure he rammed through his knife. Now, for Ma....

Jermaine, bloodied and bruised, picked himself up from under an immense branch. He tossed aside. Enemies everywhere. Out of the corner of one eye is a blur of motion -- good, that's Belizar on the move again. Thunk! A javelin hits in the side. Guards. The other spots another one making a run for the door, but there's no time. Where's Ingo? On the gnoll... man he's got a lot of blood on him too, been a while since the old captain was this beat up. Something was climbing up his back and was biting into the soft spots between his scale plates. They'd have a hard time getting through, anyway, another guard drew his sword and that will hurt if he doesn't get his shield out in time... damn rats. That's a lot of blood, his blood.

Seja's soft prayer to Yondalla was unheard by all but his deity. Yet it was answered with a rush of glimmering light that streamed out through the room. Seeing his friends fall, Seja concentrated entirely on mending their wounded bodies. Gashes closed. Skin reformed anew. Resolve was regained.

Crack went her flail, battering Nine and disrupting her song. "...And stay down" growled Ma with a grin. The cat snuck in one more slice before she fell. The halfing was irritating, but the Goliath hurt. Without warning a heavy blow from his wicked blade. He laughs as he crushes one of her dolls. Behind her a sly half-elf comes to prick her with his sword. They all come to die.

Seja's sweat poured down in exertion. Yet he could not stop -- it meant death. For his friends, that could not be allowed. Nine! She must live -- Yondalla protect her!

Fighting for every breath, Nine's senses returned. The packs of dogs were gone and she heard, felt, Seja's prayer all around her, warding off death. The slavering gnoll licked her lips and then growled as she made eye contact with Nine. Not dead yet -- and her blades were still in reach! Ma would be her kill. Dodging the flail ball, she slashed with her main hand, then shifting her balance to her off-hand which followed. Two more scores.

Ma started snapping at anything that came close. Urgor, Nine, Belizar, and Ingo circled, whittling Ma's lifeforce away with every opening. But none of them would claim the kill. A burst of eldritch energy left Seja's hands and moments later manifested in Ma's guts. A thick shower of blood covered them. With disgust it wasn't her kill, Nine eviscerated the guard left standing next to the heap which was Ma and then buried her dagger in the gnoll's skull.

Ma was dead.

Jermaine lay in a heap of rats, dying. A guard had escaped. Urgor tended his wounds -- he was unconscious but gravely hurt. There was little time to prepare. The party sipped the delicious well liquid, feeling greatly refreshed. Each drink from the well depleted its reservoir, it now was 6ft from the top. Urgor reached down to get one final cupful for Jermaine, his eyes gazed a bright shiny object at the bottom of the basin. As he watched, it made figure eights at the bottom. Intrigued, Nine cast Detect Magic on the liquid and creature -- finding that it was magical and with it the liquid. It radiated with evocation, tapping some unseen source of power to create energy. She was skeptical and withheld her swig despite Belizar attesting to its benefits.

The moment was broken when muffled voices echoed into the room from the North door. Men were moving. Belizar snapped into action and started barring the North door, finding only a vines draping down -- nothing to bar. Nine readied a spell and the others prepared for another wave...

A well toned olive-skin human entered swiftly. He stopped 10 feet from Belizar and surveying the butchery in front of him. The warrior wore fine leather and held a gladius in one hand, a small shield in the other. He commanded attention. A helmet featuring a black plume hid most of his blond hair. In seconds it was clear that his sharp features matched his motion- honed, efficient, flawless. Two guards on his sides, an orc and human, looked drab and ungainly with their battle axes. Dark shapes of a half dozen guards, at least, on other side of the vine drapery stopped and waited for the leader's word.

An agonizing second passed, everyone waiting for who would make the first move. Nine reached into her component pouch, visualizing the magic which would manifest an ice-knife that would bolt across the room, exploding in a shower of shards.

Then the human lowered his weapon slightly and smiled at the party, "Well... this is different... who are you?"

Section 30

Bhol Eye Cleaver and His Army, Freed Prisoners, and Choices

• There were a number of slayer groups which were searching for the party in the forest. Bhol would need to throw them off and clean things up around the fortress to give them time.
• He guessed he could give them about 4 hours, after which the fortress would be occupied and the party's presence could not be concealed. Additionally, the party was not allowed to proceed further North in the fortress where they might be spotted.
• Bhol's warriors were loyal to him and would help --- other warriors in the 'clan' could not necessarily be trusted.
• If the party was too slow, Bhol would not protect them in any way.
• The Ancient was below, through the door to the South.
• The curse in the forest was part of the forest. There is an entity below the Ancient, that amplifies this curse. He has never seen it, only heard of it, and, doesn't know how to kill it. Bhol did not care whether the party killed it.

1. Cable - middle aged human with tattoos of jackals over his body. He captured Jonen, and was evading the Knights of Burle by entering the Drowned Forest, whereby they both got captured by the Shard. He appeared to be a bandit of sorts and was boisterous. Cable spoke of some treasure that was here... "Ruby's the size of cities". He asked to join the party in order to split the treasure they found.
2. Jonen - elderly human in a light blue robe who leaned on a cane. Jonen said that he was a scholar from Niole Dra. When he was brought here his books and records were stolen. He asked to join the party so he could find said books/documents.
3. Mordecai - middle aged human in noble's clothing. He said that he was captured by the Shard and wanted to leave as soon as possible. He said he sold glasswares and glass trinkets.
4. Fin-had and Cl'riyx - Two grey-elves, Shadar-Kai, that said they were from the Shadowfell city of Dusk Needles. They said that they were scouting the Shard for the Raven Queen and they do her bidding without question. They were eager to return to Shadowfell where they could raise an army to assault the Shard. They said that they would get reinforcements from Uncle Sahdow-chaser from the ports. They identified the grey creature as the "Lost" and told Nine how to avoid such creatures in Shadowfell.
5. Grey - a three armed creature from Shadowfell that appeared to be tortured. The party left it chained to the wall.
6. Mr Griffo Dudley - Halfling from Heatherholm Hills. After getting over his initial fear of Seja, he was thankful for the party saving him. He said that he had a terrible dream and then found himself in the forest, next to Ms. Daisy Burrows, another halfling that was taken. He said that through he was not much of a fighter, could not imagine leaving without finding out what happened to Daisy. He asked to join the party.

Section 31

Confronting Horncarver

• One room full of glowing mushrooms. Seja grabbed a small box with black truffles.
• A room with a dozen random weapons and armor
• The iron box was opened and contained mixed coins, a bag of holding, and a healing potion. In the bag of holding there were three corpses.

Section 32

A Devil Guarding the Pool & Fleeing the Forest

Searching through Horncarver's throne rooms the party found

• Nine gets through a nasty trap all on her own.
• Treasure room with 5000gp, 10x50gp gems, large scale art -- into the bag of holding.
• Nine secretly takes a ring
• War Chest
• Books from Horncarver - journal, drowning of the holt
• Horncarver's armor. goblin and elf skulls embedded in armor. dragon teeth on one pauldron.
• 3 figurines of Merrogons (Belizar has these)
• Horncarver's necklace. Made of a heavy dark metal material.
• Arkon's Necklace is taken. Its was protected by a strange transparent barrier which rose upwards after pressing a button.
• Urgor has a vision an experiences Arkon's last moment. Very painful. Urgor collapses. Confirms that Nightshade killed him. Nightshade is a hag. Part of his soul is trapped in the necklace. Part is taken into Nightshade's iron bottle. His body is taken by his men.
• Two strange golden balls fall out of the wall. Backside have a strange intricate metal that looks almost like black veins.
• Nine takes the mage's staff and spell book
• The party tests destroying the goo -- nope
• Seja prays to Yondalla who indicates that something important needs protecting -- they are in the goo below.

Descending into the lower levels

• Columns of goo
• Huge pool in the center with floating white wisps
• Humanoid forms in root balls
• Small spikes lodged into all the roots

Everyone comes down and starts inspecting

• Big fight after Seja starts chanting a prayer to Yondalla
• Bone devil comes down from the ceiling
• Jermaine gets killed and thrown into the goo
• Seja keeps chanting and is able to reach into the goo and pull out 6 wisps, who promptly start spinning and the disappear.
• Urgor nearly thrown in, amazing acrobatics to hold onto the hooked pike
• Belizar darting around, doesn't get hurt
• Halfing's scared, Freddy protecting
• Nine stays hidden, doesn't contribute to fight
• Ingo goes down, but doesn't die
• Close call, but the party survives

Stopped by Bhol's guards

• Apparently Bhol has left, they were asked to stay back to help you out.
• Quick decisions -- everyone leaves
• except Nine, she recovers the magical sea horse, invisible
• Get out past the wargs

Check-in

• Foulfoot, Ears, and Peon are Bhol's men - goblin, half-orc, orc
• Other lieutenants are out looking for Bhol -- his plan was foiled and he left. They will meet up at an old Elven village 3 days away. Must move fast
• Party decides to stay with Foulfoot's party
• Moving at fast pace -- everyone getting tired.
• Foulfoot suggests leaving the halflings to Belizar -- who, says that he won't leave them.
• 3 nights through the forest. Tense, but no encounters. Everyone is REALLY tired now.
• Urgor reads about the Holt... really... well. Recites what he learns to Yuhui. Yuhui is super pleased with the esoteric crap.
• Seja reads his book, quietly
• Belizar builds a sled for the tired
• Nine uses the Hag's bones to identify the ring -- offers necrotic protection but is cursed.
• Nine lives is approached to join the party. Says she'll have to think about it. Wants first dibs on checking any magic items, wants R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Arrive at the village

• 2 days from the forest edge
• Bhol recalls the events at the fortress -- he tried to convince some of the other lieutenants to just go back to tending the forest, but they disagreed. He was forced to leave after that and actively hunted. An army still remains and a power struggle is likely.
• He doesn't know exactly how the curse can be lifted. Stopping the Sacrifice of souls to Mephistopheles and killing the bone devil will slow it for a time. But, it is likely someone else will become chief -- probably "Claw".
• There are other forces in the fortress --- an army that is powered somehow by the souls that have been sacraficed over the years -- probably 1000's. The commander of the Fortress would be able to harness them.
• Party offers to be the envoys to Burle for Bhol and his band of men
• Bhol is skeptical - doesn't know how humans will react to his group. Says he'll consider it and track down the party if he decides to do that. Wants to know what is happening in Saltmarsh and Burle. The party tells him that they'll stay in Burle for time, but then will be in Saltmarsh. Bhol mentions something about becoming a mercenary group if there is war in the land.
• Urgor drinks with Ingo
• Seja heals Bhol's men
• Bhol's men are awkward
• Belizar plays the pan flute, quietly.

To Heatherholm Hills

• Party arrives at Heatherholm to great fanfare.
• Pretty soon the chancellor arrives and proclaims that everyone is a hero.
• Stay at a nice inn -- The Pipe and Organs. Big party to celebrate
• Chancellor brings 500gp in thanks. Argument by the party on what to do with it. Slightly awkward, chancellor leaves. Nine ends up swiping the coins, Seja and Belizar want to leave it with the Chancellor.
• Belizar orders Nine to give it up. She refuses. Everyone goes their own way for the evening.
• Seja is met by Gwiston Gamwich -- an old friend from the Hermitage. She says that the Arch-priest of Yondalla wants to see him in the morning.
• Urgor is piss drunk -- collapses in a corner and doesn't respond to anything or anyone.
• Seja seduces Gwiston, promising her everything.
• In the morning he says that it was just a one-night kinda thing, but that he might be back from time to time. Gwiston's heart is broken.
• Seja visits the Arch-priest who says he had a vision that Seja was a hero. A sacred artefact was placed by YONDALLA HERSELF at the church. The priest says that no one is to touch it except Seja. Looks very magical indeed. Priest gives a strong warning that it could be a danger for anyone other than a devotee of Yondalla touch it.
• Shipments of halfling wine to Saltmarsh are backed up

Chapter 2 Summary