The Toothless Dragon power by Stout Hearts made a run for open water and soon had escaped both The Stomper and the surprise attack of the Beaked Dragon. Areldor spent a few hours in quiet discussion with the Shaman. Tohmas told him of his training, to serve those that his Goddess has charged him to tend. The spoke of the taboos that help the frame their beliefs. Tohmas spoke of how he was also charged to care for lands. Mother Earth knows how fire when used without care destroys far more than ever intended. Fire is a tool to be tended with care and caution. The Shaman felt that Areldor understood that the Shaman’s words had not been admonition; it was the Shaman’s duty to all to spead Atira’s love. The party had seen her blessing and he didn’t want her to be displeased with them.

The voyage back was uneventful and that was just fine with Tohmas. Returning to Heristat Mad dog made them welcome and provided comfortable lodging. Each of the party told of their story. The Shaman spoke of bravery of his companions as they faced the skeleton pirates. How they had advised to wear their eye patch. This had proved to help save them from the superior numbers. He spoke of the strength of the fighter Jaufre , helping secure and carry the chest so they could fulfill their obligation and then of his wisdom to bring his shield to bear likely saving the mage and himself. Tohmas spent his time telling the tail of how his companions had saved the day and he was happy that they allowed him to travel with them.

The Shaman had learned much by just being among the travelers. At the banquet Mad Dog had prepare in their honor he learned that there was more to do. He learned they were needed again, but this time it was much darker. Mad Dog spoke of WAR. War against the EVIL that had long ago been pushed by Mad Dog. A war against the creature that had ravished the land and it creatures. A war against the enemies of Mother Earth. Tohmas heard it a calling, this is what Altira had been preparing him to do. Mad Dog had offer them a 5000 gold reward for their successful journey and he was offering them to chance use that gold to prepare themselves if they wished to join his battle against the EVIL. Tohmas knew he would go.
Seeing items Mad Dog offered the Shaman found many useful items to help him care for the party. Wands of healing, potions of healing and food that would last would not spoil quickly. Tohmas was preparing to go to war.

The following days Tohmas felt he needed to do more, he needed to find elders of Altira and he needed better equipment if he was to care for his party. Amur had told him of a shop that might have the things he would need.

Remebering the times Crow had taken him through the city Tohmas set out to find the Abalore Arms & Armor. Cities and town were not comfortable to the Shaman and the streets were not as easy to as the forest. In time he had wound his way to the nondescript building with the battered old sign badly in need of paint or replacement that read: Abalore Arms & Armor.

Tohmas opened the door and walked inside. Remebering the patch he had been given the Shaman pulled it down from his hair so that the Dragon would be visilbe. I realized this was now the mark of his new clan.

There he found the elderly gentleman Abalore. The Shaman spoke of his companion that had come to him. He told the man of how he needed to prepare so he might better protect his new “clan” and sure Mother Earth Altira. Tohmas pulled the sack of 500 gold coins the crew had given him and set on the table. “I can pay, just help me to serve my people.”

(Did a minor edit to add the patch, almost forgot the badge of his new clan.)

Crow was happy with his share of the loot they had found in the Turtle Dragons lair and was even happier they had not had to fight it. He was sure, even with the numbers on their side, they would have lost many of the party if not the whole of it. However now he was off to spend it on better equipment and maybe a weapon or two, mayhap a better bow.

However as all things sometimes go plans change in an insistent and that was the case this day as Crow heard his named called.

“Maithias”

Turning to the sound Crow saw a young looking but well known female Elf approaching. Dressed in leather baring sword and bow she was no fair maiden yet very beautiful to behold.

“What do you do here Sea’Leete”

“I bring word from your father. Your Mother lies dying and he wishes you to return home at once with me”

“Mother?” Crow replied shocked. When he had left to seek adventure she had been healthy and happy but now she was dying. “How can this be”

“Your Father fears black magic my lord”

“Quiet your tongue, you know better then to call me that here”

“My apologies Maithias”

As he stood there hesitating he knew in the end he had no choice if Mother was indeed dying from black magic as his father feared it was up to him as first born to return with Sea’Leeta. Writing a quick note on a piece of parchment he caught the first boy to cross before him.

“You boy here is 5 gold, please take this note to one Jaufre Vanvoie, or one Tohmas Goodwood both can be found at the Toothless Dragon Tavern in the employ of Mad Dog Muldoon.”

With the note sent telling of his departure to the rest of the party, Crow gathered his gear and followed the female Elf to a pair of horses. With a last look behind him at the City of Heristat he turned his horse North and was gone.

Damar Gets New Clothes
World of Aihrde
Region of Aachen
City of Heristat
Caribros Clothier & Curious Curios
Early Evening on Tuesday
Marrero 16, 101awd (After Winter Dark)
Damar was in no hurry to grab items of either interest, or necessity, from the Mad Dog Muldoon Specialty Shoppe, as he allowed his natural and trained instincts as a tracker and Ranger to dominate his emotions; choosing rather to observe what each Seeker would select, from among those who had decided to accept this new offer from Mad Dog Muldoon, in exchange for their 5,000 Gold Coins reward.

This also afforded Damar the luxury, as it were, to take his time viewing the various items that were for 'sale' in the Specialty Shoppe.

Without appearing the least bit anxious, the Elf Ranger finally made his request known to his former and now current employer:

100 Silver Arrows = 100gp
1 Silver Elf Long Sword = 2,000gp
1 Elf Mail Shirt = 1,000gp
3 Potions of Cure Serious Wounds (3x500gp) = 1,500gp
1 Potion of Cure Light Wounds = 300gp
10 Days Rations of Dried Meat & Dried Fruits (10x10gp) = 100gp
Total Spent = 5,000gp

However, unlike the other Seekers who were given an additional 500 Gold Coins from the Stout Hearts, Damar had no coins to replace his damaged and trail worn clothes.

While the Elf Ranger was pondering upon what to do about making such a needed acquisition, Mad Dog Muldoon approached with confident purpose, handed him a 'Toothless Dragon Eye Patch', then began speaking about a certain shop on the northern outskirts of the city, where arrangements had already been made with the proprietor for Damar to have new clothes provided, to replace the ones the Ranger was currently wearing like a badge of honor.

So it was, early the next evening, that Damar found himself approaching the entrance to a finely furnished cottage, with a masterfully painted sign that read:

Caribros Clothier & Curious Curios
As Damar entered inside the cottage, he noticed the exquisite, yet modest, furnishings and the fine cloths and clothes that were on display throughout the spacious room.

A middle aged Half Elf was flitting from one customer to another, engaging all eight of them in conversations, when and where applicable, without pressuring any of them to buy or choose.

But when his eyes fell upon Damar, there seemed to be a split second of joyful recognition that swept over the face of Caribros, but the proprietor went about his business at hand, not seeming to be rushed or disturbed in his duties.

One by one, each customer exited the cottage, fully satisfied with the services rendered by Caribros, who patiently and pleasantly spoke with each departing person, before turning his attention to Damar.

When the last customer had exited, Caribros [pronounced KAH-REE-BROSE] stood in the doorway, waved pleasantly to everyone, then shut the door, posting a 'Closed' notice in the window!

Then Caribros turned to face Damar, looked him full in the face, before bowing before the Elf Ranger, exclaiming:

"My Rightful King!"
In the ensuing moments, Caribros explained that he had fled the lands of his forefathers, because of the impending purge by the siblings of Damar, who were seeking to consolidate influence and power for their own self gain, rather than for the good of the people they may someday rule!

After further explanation as to how he acquired this cottage to set up a lucrative business in the city, Caribros set himself to the task of providing Damar with appropriate replacement garments for his woods clothing; including a new dark green tunic, new deep blue leather pants, new dark grey soft leather boots, a new grey shirt, a new grey hooded cloak and new leather archer's bracers.

The newly revealed faithful ally of the Elf Ranger, then took the old garments, including the broken Broadsword, storing them in a place of concealment, should Damar ever decide to come back and claim his rightful property.

There were proper insignias stitched into each of the new articles of clothing, to honor the Elf Ranger as the rightful heir to the Elven Throne in the Aenochian Forest, strategically placed in each garment, where only the loyal followers of the rightful heir would notice them!

Caribros had saved the best new item for last, as he excused himself to retrieve an artifact that he had kept safely hidden, until the day would come when he was able to present it to the only Elf of Royal Blood, to whom the Half Elf had pledged his loyalty, so many long years ago!

It was a Ring of Revealing, light brown in color, with an image of a Sweet Gum Tree Leaf overlaying the bark texture of said tree. The star shaped leaf had a single color adorning the tip of each of the five long points of the leaf.

Clockwise from the bottom left point the colors were Black, Green, Red at the very top point, blue and white at the bottom right point of the leaf.

Caribros then explained that within 100 yards of an unknown humanoid, the entire leaf would turn from light brown, to the corresponding color.

Black = Foe
Green = Orc
Red = Unliving
Blue = Goblin
White = Friend

He also explained that a Friendly Goblin (if there were such a creature), or a Friendly Orc (most likely a Half Orc, but not necessarily), would cause the leaf to alternate between the White and Green for the Friendly Orc, or between White and Blue for a Friendly Goblin.

Caribros was glad to have seen the day when Damar proved to be alive, in spite of the rumors and reports to the contrary! He was even more glad to have the honor of bestowing the insignia stitched replacement garments, plus the Ring of Revealing, to he whom the Half Elf kept addressing as 'My Rightful King'!

Damar stayed another hour to enjoy some Elven Tea and a light dinner of some of his favorite delicacies from his homeland, dining and conversing in the living quarters of the cottage, adjacent to the first room, where Caribros receives and entertains his prospective customers.

Then the Elf Ranger excused himself to take a walk on the outskirts of the city, before returning to his room at the Toothless Dragon Tavern.

He had placed the Ring of Revealing on an appropriate finger, where it fit comfortably, without hindering the use of his bow or new Silver Elf Long Sword.

Deciding to take a stroll towards the small patch of woods to the north of the city, the Elf Ranger was glad to breath in the fragrances of the true outdoors, away from the stifling smells of the city!

He was lost in thought, when the melodic voice of a young Shindolay Female reached his ears from several yards behind him. As he turned, he noticed two things:

First, the young Shindolay Female was a 'Street Walker' who was offering herself 'free of any charge' to the Elf Ranger for a night, or several nights, if he desired the company of a fellow kinsman in a city crowded with Humans?

Secondly the Elf Ranger realized that the Ring of Revealing was no longer a light brown color, but had transformed the entire leaf to a deep Black color!

Damar was able to courteously excuse himself, suggesting that perhaps another time would be more conducive for them both; walking away nonchalantly, without having asked her name!

Fortunately, the young Shindolay Female had decided to find another prospect to share her bed, as the leaf on the Ring of Revealing slowly faded back to a light brown, the further away she got.

Several minutes passed without incident, when the Ring of Revealing began to slowly alternate between the colors Green and White.

Damar was now approaching the small wooded area, seeking to separate himself from the stifling atmosphere of the city, his Ranger senses drinking in the flavors of the natural surroundings, which he enjoyed far better than the unwanted stench of the city!

A few moments later, a Half Orc dressed in the garb of the trusted Town Militia, emerged from the woods, making his appointed rounds of guarding the city from unexpected attacks!

They greeted one another, then as the Elf Ranger continued his leisurely walk, taking in the sights and sounds of the small woodland, he saw five more Half Orcs, also dressed in the garb of Town Militia, guarding the city from their strategic vantage points!

As he made his way slowly and leisurely back to the Toothless Dragon Tavern, Damar began thanking his deity Oercus, for his good fortune to have received not only the new clothes, but the Ring of Revealing also!

As the Toothless Dragon grew closer and closer to Heristat, Jaufre grew more pensive. As such he sought privacy from the other seekers. With their first outing wrapping up so shortly he had to reflect upon his reason for embarking upon such a journey to begin with. His sister.

He had been acting foolish. Less than a week he had been out of Heristat, and thrice had he put himself at risk, leaping into harms way for the sake of others. Such actions, while instinctive and certainly of good merit, were counter-productive to the one thing he cared most about, saving his sister. Furthermore, while Jaufre was certain she would have been proud that he had made sure his companions were safe, Gale would likely worry herself into a worse state than she already was. That was something Jaufre would not be able to stand; he'd have to make sure to downplay his reckless heroics when she asked about the journey.

When Heristat arose upon the horizon, Jaufre found his nerves on edge. He needed to see his sister, but his fear of her condition and his lack of a means to help her brought back feelings of frustration.

Meeting with Mad Dog Muldoon
World of Aihrde
Region of Aachen
City of Heristat
Toothless Dragon Tavern
Early Evening on Monday
Marrero 15, 101awd (After Winter Dark)
Evening had come and Jaufre had yet to head to Savantes Apothecary to see his sister or Guetis, both wanting to organize his thoughts, and settle his accounts with Mad Dog. However, he did not expect the offer that would be set before him. Mad Dog spoke of war, of some great evil that could rise and threaten those he cared about; threaten Gale. Without thinking he found himself agreeing to help, wanting to ensure sure an evil did reach his family. Even more, as Mad Dog made perfectly clear, war had a habit of leading to treasure, and treasure turned into the gold he used to ensure his sister was cared for. There was no second guessing the need for the young warrior to join in this cause.

Following Mad Dog and Dagger down the steps into a room brimmed with equipment, Jaufre was taken aback. For such a stockpile of weapons and armour to already be here, certainly then the seekers first outing had been a test, and Mad Dog was more than he let on. Looking over the wares, the Paladin could clearly see items which he could put to good use, and Mad Dog was offering 5000gp worth.

(Shopping Elevn Chain Suit - 1000
Elven Long Sword - 2000
Cure Serious Wound pot x4 - 2000
End Shopping)

There was, however, one important thing the shop lacked if Jaufre was to rearm himself; a shield. The small, wooden one he had taken upon their first journey had served him well, but, considering the talk, would not be up to the task; it even had the Cutthroats' arrowheads still imbedded in it. Nevertheless, Jaufre was not about to be rude to his host by citing this; the man was expressing plenty of generosity as it was, even if it was to benefit his own ends. After all, Jaufre himself planned to use his shares for his own cause; he had no ground upon which to judge Mad Dog, especially once the man made it clear he sought to suppress a rising evil.

The matter settled, Jaufre left his new gear with at the tavern, so as not to alarm his sister by looking ready to play soldier. Although the hour was late he felt compelled to check on her.

Visiting Family
City of Heristat
Savantes Apothecary
Late Evening on Monday
Marrero 15, 101awd
Travelling across the city of Heristat alone, Jaufre enjoyed the silence.The day had unwinded, the shops had closed, and the citizens departed for bed or tavern or both. He had spent many nights walking among the peaceful streets, calming himself on Guetis' request; his frustrations over being unable to aid his sister left him short tempered and unreasonable on more than one occasion.
But here, nearly two weeks after agreeing to assist Mad Dog with his first mission for treasure, Jaufre found himself rather composed. The silence that he had used to coax his temper now complimenting his serenity. He had a goal, and the means to reach it; by working with Mad Dog, he had a chance to support the recovery of his sister and protect he from harm, he could do something.Looking to the modest coin pouch in his hand he had to smile. It was so much more reassuring than the helplessness he had felt trapped in before.

He paused for a moment in his musings as he passed by a local smithy. Jaufre had run errands for the man, in an attempt to ensure enough coin to maintain Guetis' research into his sisters' affliction. The smith was a good, honest man who put pride into his work. It was from this man that Jaufre had picked up is weapon and shield with the meager coins before departing to Tagea, and they had seen him through the trials there. Thankful, Jaufre made a mental note to return in the morning to see about a sturdy steel shield to see him through the trials to come, and set aside some of his award.

As he approached the Savantes Apothecary, Jaufre dug into his belt pouch for the key Guetis had given him, though the young man doubted the old man would be asleep. In coming to stay with Guetis, Jaufre had noticed the older man had some peculiar habits, often getting absorbed in his work to such a degree that he would forget to open his own shop, eat, bathe, or, surprisingly, get the much needed rest required to focus on such research. Nevertheless Jaufre appreciated the scholar's dedication; it was being put to great use seeking the origin of Gale's affliction, and for that Jaufre was eternally grateful.

Coming to the door, Jaufre let himself inside and could not help but smile at the both the small rays of light and thing trail of incense smoke drifting from the back room; he had been right in assuming Guetis was up. Locking the door behind him, the young paladin moved as quietly as he could to the stairs, so as not to disturb the scholar or awake his sister. To his dismay the first step let out a resounding creek.

"Boy," Guetis' voice wafted from the back room, as lazily as the smoke trail. "If you think I was unaware that your ship has been docked since mid-morning, then you are a greater fool than I believed. In here. Now. We've much to discuss, and Gale needs her rest."

Jaufre entered the small room as beckoned to see the older man sifting through one of six large volumes laid across his desk. There seemed to be many letters, and scrolls of notes cast about as well. Hearing the younger man enter, Guestis arose for his chair, turned to face Jaufre, and gave him a stern glare that melted into a relieved smile.

"It is good to see you're still in one piece," the older man snorted, coming closer as if to inspect him. "No holes, no disfiguring injuries. Hmph," he moved around behind Jaufre, who stood there puzzled, before suddenly striking the younger man in the back of the head. "At the very least you could have sent word of your return! Blasted fool of a... if your fath... hrmm. Are you trying to cause unneeded worry?" Guetis was clearly frustrated, but beside himself with what to say.

"Guetis, please calm down. Look," Jaufre started, proffering the coins. "this is but the beginning. I'll be able to get more, to help find a cure for Gale."

However, Guetis did not take the coins, and looked away for a moment, causing a wave of emotion to ripple through Jaufre. "I fear what we need is more than coin, boy." His mood had shifted from the mirthful scolding to something far more bleak and serious. "I believe I've found the source of her affliction. Look here." He beckoned for Jaufre to seat himself by the desk as he retrieved a small object which he kept cupped within folded parchment; it looked like a simple brass hairpin.

"Guetis..., w-what are saying?" Confusion sank Jaufre's heart. "How could a mere trinket cause her illness?"

"Would you use your head boy, honestly. I've ascertained that Gale isn't ill, she has been cursed, or if it is as I suspect, worse. More, this trinket is the cause of all this; it radiates some darker energy, something evil. An older evil if I'm not mistaken," He gestured to the volumes upon the desk. "from further West. I fear it was exposure to this pin, perhaps even a prick of its tip, that caused her affliction. How it came to be in her possession though, is still beyond me. I've gone over all the correspondences you sister kept with your parents' friends, and with scholars. Looking for oddities among them, references to this pin or other artifacts, changes in writing style or tense, some sort of clue. But I cannot find reference to who it was who sent this, this thing to her; I fear this lack of direction is intentional."

Jaufre's heart was racing, and his head was spinning. This news shattered the sense of hope he had built upon returning. He wanted nothing so desperately as to see his sister well again, to see her smile with the full joy of her youth and break free from the shadow over her.
He didn't want to accept it; he couldn't. "Isn't there anything we can do!" Jaufre blurted out, unthinking and fighting back tears over the horrid discovery.

The old scholar raised a hand. " Let me finish. However this taint came to infect you sister, the poor sweet girl, it has chosen to slowly kill her rather than corrupt her. Perhaps the exposure was too small, or the power of the pin too weak, or perhaps it is something in her, some purity or faith. Regardless I am certain that we need find some artifact that directly counters the evil of this pin. If what little I have upon its origin is true, then perhaps we need send you westward."

They spoke into the night. Jaufre recounted the request of Mad Dog for aid against a rising evil to the west, and of his initial, unthinking willingness to aid the cause to further protect Gale. Yet now the request seemed to be even more important, and the two men who sat in the back of the apothecary both shared a sickened gaze upon the old pin, the implications that it too was associated with what Mad Dog feared weighing heavy upon them.

Not bothering to put on his new, shiny elven armor, Damar stuffed it into his backup treating the wondrous suit just like any other armor he had ever had. He didn't consider the mail shirt anything special really. It was just another tool with the purpose of keeping him safe from enemy attacks. Perhaps it was the environment he had grown up in that made the noble elf consider such incredibly expensive things customary. Andamarithalan had been surrounded by beauty, both natural and elven made ever since he had been brought home from the temple. Jewelery, gems, beautiful paintings and sculptures along with shining suits of mithril plate armor and weapons were nothing out of the ordinary at the House of Lanaenil as was only befitting the ruling family of the Aenochian woods.

As Mad Dog placed the eyepatch on his hand, Damar raised an eyebrow and cast a querying look at his employer, but dismissed the question on his lips with a shrug. The man doubtlessly had his reasons for offering the ranger the foolish looking patch. Damar had to raise his eyebrow a second time as Mad Dog seemed to have read his next thoughts and started talking about a new set of clothes for him. The elf nodded in agreement and thanked their host for his help.

As the evening was more or less over by then, Damar left without a word and headed to his room and crashed down on his bed overwhelmed by exhaustion. Since his espace from the Fromian Ostuary, the elf hadn't gotten a chance for proper rest. Even though his kind could go on for very long periods of time without sleep, he did need to rest and relax every now and then. Although the trip back had taken the better part of three weeks, the seas had been so rough that even meditation had been nearly impossible for him. So now even the hard mattress of his room felt better than the luxurious bed in his quarters back at home ever had.

It was long into the next day when Damar woke up. The sun was high up in the sky, but the young (by high elven standards) man felt better than he had in a long, long time. A wash and a small meal later he was a new elf as he stepped outside and took a deep breath of fresh air. Having no money and no spare set of clothes, the ranger had to wear the ragged remains of his old ones. It didn't really bother him at all, but for some reason it made him think about his elder sister Malaina. They'd never really gotten along, but he knew she would've gotten a raving fit had she seen him walking down the Halls of Light garbed in such tatters. She'd always called him a disgrace, half-brother and even bastard. That's why especially when younger, Damar had made it his habit to act according to Malaina's expectations whenever she was around, except in the presence of their father of course. One did not simply walk into an audience with the king in whatever clothes.

Being an elf, passing time was never a problem for Damar. He could sit crosslegged on a rock and watch a nearby stream flowing for hours and in fact that was pretty much all he now did until the day had turned into evening. There was a nice little tavern built right next to the Innes. It had a terrace with tables overlooking the river and it was Damar's most favorite place in the whole city. Being a being of the woods, he didn't enjoy the life in the human settlements too much and had a habit of taking walks in the lands around Heristat whenever possible. But today he was still feeling somewhat tired and simply sat through the day sipping wine and watching the people, local and visiting, pass him by.

As the streets got quieter and the sun started to make its way down behind the treeline, Damar felt like his old self again. He got up, waved his thanks to the waiter and headed towards the shop Mad Dog had given him the directions to. "Caribros Clothier & Curious Curios", the sign said. The name rang a bell, an old bell. He'd known a man called Caribros once, back at home. Could it be the same Caribros? The sign was very well made and there was something familiar to it. Nodding to himself, the ranger walked to the door and stepped inside.

The lighting inside the shop was surprisingly bright. The lanterns were clearly of elven origin and probably had some sort of a permanent spell on them. What little Damar knew of magic he had learned from his brothers who had always mocked his mind - too simple to comprehend even the simplest of cantrips, they used to say. He had no idea how the illumination spells worked, but he'd seen them in use ever since he'd been a baby. It apparently took a powerful mage to make the light burn for all eternity and to enable controlling it by power words. But even after the long, cold war, there were still numerous magicians living in the Aenochian forest capable of of such tricks.

Standing at the doorway, Damar had a look around. There were beautifully made clothes everywhere and surprisingly many people present too. A familiar looking half-elf moved from customer to customer with polite remarks and suggestions to everyone. There was a brief eye contact between the proprietor and Damar and they both shared a quick smile before Caribros moved to the next customer. It took the tailor a better part of an hour before he finally closed and locked the door behind the last customer. What the man did next, took Damar by surprise. Or the bow, he had known to expect, but the half-elf's words he had not.

"My Rightful King!"
Damar knew he was no king, but a prince still. Technically speaking at least. Andamarithalan Lanaenil was the youngest of king's children and as such entitled to be called a prince. But each of his six siblings thought differently. Or half-siblings, as they liked to point out with words as cold as ice. No, he was no king and never would be. His father was still very much alive as were all of his brothers and Malaina. But the ranger knew very well why the tailor would call him such. And Caribros' story proved him right. Now, Damar could not and would not credit himself for the better behavior of the other princes and the princess earlier on. A vain person might try to convince himself so, but that was not him. No… He hadn't been gone for long and they had been acting strange for years, decades even. And Damar's return would change absolutely nothing.

But the truth was that Aliathanal, Thelion, Theranalil, Celerinthalan, Ianaranal and Malaina had for different reasons started to use their position and power to further their own needs and desires a long time ago. They were all adults, well trained and rich. And there weren't too many things or people in the forest kingdom that could stand in their way. Fortunately though the sextet was not united and didn't even get on well with each other. And despite their selfishness, Damar's siblings seemed to respect their parents and the Council of Light. Nevertheless, he was happy to see Caribros in good shape and well off. He'd seen the marks of the purge himself before he had left his home behind almost a year ago. The king's children, Damar excluded, did consider elves and especially the Shindolay superior to any other being on Aihrde. And although the Law of Elders specifically said all benevolent members of all races were welcome to visit and even stay in the Forest, the six had other thoughts. They wanted the kingdom to be free of all tainted blood, especially the half-elvish.

The two men talked all the way through the selecting, fitting and measuring of clothes and carried on late into the evening while enjoying wonderful elven tea and light dinner. Caribros had indeed escaped the persecution Damar had foreseen a few years back. The actions of his siblings had made him feel sick as did his own powerlessness to interfere. He had tried to talk to the king, but the old man had not wanted to hear any of his accusations. The youngest son had become a liability from the moment he had been born. He was a byproduct of the terrible war nearly two hundred years ago when the King had in his lust fallen for the bait of sorceress. Or so the ruler of the Aenochian elves claimed. Anything else would have been too embarrassing. So Damar was a son of the King, but not the Queen and that made his word worthless against his that of his brothers or sister.

The identity of Damar's real mother was no secret. The High Sorceress Aliana had made sure everyone knew the king's youngest child was hers as well. Having a child living in the palace made her position in the Council assured for as long as the king lived. Being the most powerful magic wielder in the kingdom helped too of course as her skills were needed from time to time. But the powers she had gained during her centuries of study and research had also turned the woman somewhat eccentric. Many considered the Mad Witch dangerous and even a threat to the nation. Therefore even the Queen believed, at least officially, that her husband had been under some spell on that tragic night of lust with Liana.

Damar could've stayed through the night at Caribror's place chatting about homeland, but he could see the half-elf was tired. And although the tailor would never had said so, Damar felt the man wished to retire for the day. Therefore he let out a yawn of his own and shook his head tiredly. "My dear Caribror. This has been a wonderful evening, but I have only just arrived from a long trip to south and I still feel a little weary because of it. I would love to carry on remembering the good old times of home with you, but I believe it would be good for us both to head to bed for a full night's sleep." The tailor nodded in agreement, but did his best not to seem eager to get rid of his "Rightful king".

In the meanwhile, the tailor's apprentice had finished the cutting and the sewing and the whole outfit was ready for Damar to change into. He left his old gear for Caribros' safekeeping and ordered another outfit better suited for town life for later use. But before Damar had a chance to leave, the half-elf had a couple of surprises up his sleeve. He first sent the lad home and locked the door again behind him. Caribros then opened a drawer and pulled out six identical patches and began stitching them into the new garments. Damar nodded to the faithful follower's explanation about their purpose and patiently waited for him to finish the task. But it was not all…

The ring was extremely beautiful and when he held it in his hand, Damar could almost feel the elven magic radiating from it. "Ring of Revealing", Caribros called it. The tiny band of gold held immense power within - power that would be most useful to a loner like Damar. Just by looking at the ring, he would be able to tell a friend from a foe, even at a distance. The ranger didn't believe he could ever trust magic completely, even when it was created or used by his kin. But sometimes there were situations when his intuition and skills were not enough and in those times the ring would come in handy - it might even save his life.

Later when the night had already fallen and Damar lay awake in his bed, he held the ring between his thumb and forefinger and admired the leaf and the colors in the pale moonlight. It had worked just as Caribros had said it would. A smile appeared on the chiseled, handsome face. Perhaps things had taken a turn for the better. Perhaps on this next mission they would not all die...

Tohmas Needs Better Equipment
World of Aihrde
Region of Aachen
City of Heristat
Abalore Arms & Armor
Late Afternoon on Wednesday
Marrero 17, 101awd (After Winter Dark)
The following days Tohmas felt he needed to do more, he needed to find elders of Altira and he needed better equipment if he was to care for his party. Amur had told him of a shop that might have the things he would need.

Remebering the times Crow had taken him through the city Tohmas set out to find the Abalore Arms & Armor. Cities and town were not comfortable to the Shaman and the streets were not as easy to as the forest. In time he had wound his way to the nondescript building with the battered old sign badly in need of paint or replacement that read: Abalore Arms & Armor.

Tohmas opened the door and walked inside. Remebering the patch he had been given the Shaman pulled it down from his hair so that the Dragon would be visilbe. I realized this was now the mark of his new clan.

There he found the elderly gentleman Abalore. The Shaman spoke of his companion that had come to him. He told the man of how he needed to prepare so he might better protect his new “clan” and sure Mother Earth Altira. Tohmas pulled the sack of 500 gold coins the crew had given him and set on the table. “I can pay, just help me to serve my people.”
Tohmas greeted Abalore, making sure that the elderly man with the Toothless Dragon Cane with the Open Maw could see his eye patch, as he related his tale, emphasizing that his fellow Seeker Amur had given him a hearty recommendation and explicit directions for acquiring what the Shaman was seeking.

Abalore motioned to the Shaman to take a seat at the table and inquired if he would care to join him in an informal lunch of bread and cheese, with a tankard of ale to help wash the taste of the city out of his throat, while they discussed possible business?

His apprentice-helper, the Gnome named Ody, eagerly waited on the two at the table, just like the young Rogue had described to the Shaman, anticipation growing in his eyes that another interesting deal was in the making between these two!

Explaining his need for a bow, staff, armor and tomahawk, if his bag of 500 Gold Coins from the Stout Hearts was enough to cover the cost of those items, the Shaman poured out his heart to the elderly Stout Heart, telling him about the banquet feast and the items he bought with his 5000 Gold Coins reward at the Mad Dog Muldoon Specialty Shoppe, just two nights ago:

1 Wand of Cure Critical Wounds (25 Charges) /5d8 /3,500gp

1 Potion of Cure Serious Wounds (5 Servings) /3d8 /500gp
1 Potion of Cure Critical Wounds (5 Servings) /5d8 /700gp
100 Silver Arrow for Bow / 1 Gold Coin per Silver Arrow = 100gp

10 of the Wheat Cake with Raisins, Olives and Onions / 1 Gold Coin / Weighs 10 Pounds = 10gp
19 of the Mixture of Dried Meat and Dried Fruits in Season / 10 Gold Coins / Weighs 10 Pounds = 190gp
Total = 5,000 Gold Coins

Tohmas finished his explanation, emphasizing that besides stocking up on items to help care for any future battle wounds to the members of his newly found clan, he had decided that he would make sure they had enough food rations to eat, when they began their unknown journey, less than two weeks away!

Abalore motioned to Ody, whispered something in his ear, then sat back with a broad smile, as the Gnome scampered off somewhere beyond the curtain in search of whatever it was that the elderly Stout Heart had decided to bequeath to the Shaman.

Before the Gnome returned, Abalore leaned forward and asked the Shaman to hand over a mere 100 Gold Coins, sight unseen, for whatever Ody was searching for in the back room.

Tohmas readily agreed, shook hands with Abalore, counting out the 100 Gold Coins from his bag of 500, then waited with great anticipation.

When the Gnome finally returned, he was carrying a +5 Hide Armor, which he presented to the Shaman, then hurried off behind the curtain once more!

The Shaman was so engrossed, gratefully examining the +5 Hide Armor, that he did not notice the Gnome returning with another item, which he handed to Abalore.

Abalore eyed the Shaman, taking full measure of the weight of Tohmas's worth, then set a Silver Edged Tomahawk on the table and began to say:

"This once belonged to a friend of mine ...

"He fell in battle ... fighting 'The Taint' ...

"This tomahawk is a powerful artifact weapon ... it cost me the use of my left arm ... when an enemy picked it up from where my friend had fallen ... and used his very weapon against me!"
Abalore pushes the tomahawk towards Tohmas and continues saying:

"Now it is yours ... my gift to you ... I have been waiting a long time ... for one such as you to come through this door!

"This blade thirsts to avenge the innocent blood ... shed by 'The Taint' ... take this with My Blessing!"
Abalore looks the Shaman directly in the eyes as he receives the precious weapon.

"Ody will escort you to Daragard the Druid ... He will know it is a sign of 'The Rising Taint' ... when he sees this tomahawk in your possession!

"This once belonged to His Father ... and His Father Before Him!

"He Will Help You!

"He gave it to me for safekeeping ... to hold the weapon that cost me my arm ... until I found 'That One' who would be willing to take this weapon into battle ... against the 'Dark Forces' of 'The Taint' ... No Matter What the Odds!

"It Is Yours Now!

"So Go!"
Ody bows to the Shaman and beckons Tohmas to follow him, allowing a few moments for the Shaman to Invoke a Blessing of his own upon Abalore and the Abalore Arms & Armor.

The elderly Stout Heart waited a few moments, then thanked Tohmas as he escorted the Shaman to the door, explaining the finer points of his newly acquired weapon.

(((Tohmas is now the favored owner of a +3 Feather Edged Silver Tomahawk, the fine blade laced with a Silver Design, which could only have come from some other unknown Shaman in days gone by.

This Magical Weapon has a +3 to Hit and does 1d8 +2 Damage; Double Damage vs Lycanthropes and +4 Damage against the Unliving! It can also be thrown a distance of 20 feet accurately!

A Non-Modified Roll of 18-20 [by the Castle Keeper aka Hammer] results in the Severing of a Limb / Hand / Foot or Head [also determined by the Castle Keeper aka Hammer] via Percentile Dice!)))
Daragard the Druid Ody led Tohmas along an illogical route of winding alleyways and busy streets, often doubling back with even more illogical circuitous routings, that would even make a magnetic compass dizzy with all the twists and turns and double back movements!

Any time the Shaman would press the question 'Why?' the Gnome would hastily turn and mouth 'Spies' with an almost indignant hushed reply!

The answer always made some sort of sense, but lacked any further explanation as Ody continued his almost bizarre behavior, leading Tohmas on now what seemed to look like to any observer, casual or otherwise, merely a 'Wild Goose Chase'!

The sun sank low over the buildings of Heristat, casting long, dark shadows, affording the Gnome even more opportunity to obscure their intent, as they slowly made their way to the outskirts of the northeastern borders of the city.

The sun had fully set below the horizon, making their now secretive foray to a distant row of trees seem all the more shrouded in mystery.

At least Tohmas was a little bit more at home out here, so his exasperation with Ody having led him back and forth and round about all the stenches and stinks of the city streets and alleyways, had now given way to a thankful serenity in the shrouded shadows of the surrounding environs outside the city.

Finally, they came to a particular gnarled old oak tree, with a small hollow in its trunk, through which Ody was able to squeeze himself into, while Tohmas was forced to wait patiently, for some kind of explanation of the Gnome's new antics?

About twenty minutes later, Ody squeezed back through the hollow, with a great big smile on his face, exhorting the Shaman to follow him to 'Atira knows where?'

Tohmas was trying to figure out just how exactly he would be able to accommodate his larger frame into the hollow of the tree, mentally listing his available spells, when the hollow of the tree grew ever larger, ultimately allowing the Shaman entrance into the unknown interior, without even having to bend forward to allow for head and shoulder room!

Once inside, Tohmas found himself standing in a rather large 'War Room' with what appeared to be a Council of Druid Elders seated around a circular oak table, or rather a massive oaken tree stump, sitting on what seemed to be its roots, headed by a middle aged Elf, who welcomed the Seeker Shaman into their midst.

This was Daragard, a tall and stately Elf, dressed in an Elven War Robe, with an unmistakeable emblem of Atira emblazoned upon the top of his staff.

Without the Narrator going into greater detail, suffice it to say that Daragard encouraged Tohmas to share with the Council of Druid Elders all that had transpired since the Shaman had become a Seeker, including what had happened earlier that day at the Abalore Arms & Armor.

Then he asked to see the Silver Tomahawk that Abalore had bequeathed to the Shaman, passing it from one Druid Elder to the next and so on, as proof positive that the prophesies of old had now become present day reality!

Daragard then proclaimed his approval to all in attendance, including Ody, that his blessing was upon Tohmas to indeed wield his father's Silver Tomahawk, as the Shaman would be journeying west to confront the unknown Dark Forces of The Taint, which they feared was seeking to resurrect its evil presence among the unsuspecting innocent denizens of the lands stretching far and wide across the regions of Aihrde!

Furthermore, it was acknowledged that no news or dispatches of any kind had been delivered by way of the port cities of Icanthos, Leanthos City, Frieberg nor Orgstall in well over the past nine months!

It was also common knowledge among the Druid Elders and Daragard himself, that not only were there no messages delivered from the realms beyond these port cities, from any of the Druid Dispatchers, but they were also concerned that the amount of goods, gold, jewels and treasures had also dwindled down to a mere trickle into the holdings of Mad Dog Muldoon, who had proven in past times of trouble and turmoil to be a faithful ally against the previously defeated Dark Forces of The Taint, during the Great Wars: a dismal and grim conflict that had been fought and won with great sorrow and the shedding of blood, lives and lost innocence!

There was much secretive discussion to the understanding ears of Ody and Tohmas, among the various members of the Council of Druid Elders and Daragard, before an agreement of sorts was reached around the table.

Daragard offered to spend some exclusive time with Tohmas, before the Seeker Shaman was to depart aboard The Toothless Dragon with his fellow Seekers who had chosen to make the uncertain journey.

This time would be spent providing additional Druidical Training and Insight, including the ways of their common deity Atira, in times of battle against the forces of evil, that even now seemed to be spreading and threatening to expunge the beauties of the natural order of things, all across the lands and regions of Aihrde.

Finally, the Council of Druid Elders and Daragard agreed to provide the Seeker Shaman Tohmas with two, or technically three, types of additional weapons from their arsenal of items that were secreted away in their War Chambers, in case the time ever arose when the Dark Forces of The Taint ever dared try again to defile and dominate the denizens of Aihrde!

Long moments later, the Seeker Shaman was presented with a Staff of the Woodlands and a +2 Oath Bow with 20 Slaying Arrows.

(((Slaying Arrows are +1 arrows magically attuned to a particular type or subtype of creature. If it strikes such a creature, the target must make a Constitution Save or Die Instantly! The Castle Keeper aka Hammer determines the particular type of creature it slays!

These Slay Orcs!

+2 Oath Bow is a white +2 Composite Long Bow that whispers; "Swift defeat to my enemies" when nocked and pulled. If the firer swears aloud to slay his target, the bow's whisper becomes the low shout "Swift death to those who have wronged me."

Against such a sworn enemy, the bow has a +5 enchantment bonus and arrows launched from it deal an additional 1d6 points of damage. However, the bow is treated as a +1 weapon against all foes, other than the sworn enemy.

These bonuses and penalties last for seven days or until the sworn enemy is slain or destroyed by the wielder of the Oath Bow, whichever comes first.

The Oath Bow may only have one sworn enemy at a time. Once the wielder swears to slay a target, he cannot make a new oath until he has slain that target or seven days have passed.

Even if the wielder slays the sworn enemy on the same day that he makes the oath, he cannot activate the Oath Bow's special power again until 24 hours have passed from the time he made the oath.

Staff of the Woodlands [50 Charges]
Appearing to have grown naturally into its shape, this oak, ash, or yew staff allows use of the following spells:
Charm Animal (1 charge)
Speak with Animals (1 charge)
Bark Skin (2 charges)
Wall of Thorns (3 charges)
Summon Magical Beasts (3 charges)
Animate Plants (4 charges)

The staff may be used as a weapon, functioning as a +2 Quarter Staff in melee combat.

The Staff of the Woodlands also allows its wielder to Pass Without Trace at will, with no charge cost.

These two attributes continue to function after all the charges are expended.)))
Note from the Castle Keeper:
This is an Oaken Staff of the Woodlands; however, Ody (the Player, not the Gnome ) has the literary freedom to add to the descriptions of all the preceding events in this 'Interlude', including surroundings, any of the Druid Elders, Daragard, the new weapons, the new Hide Armor or even freely describing Ody the Gnome!

Tohmas still holds his Bag filled with 400 Gold Coins, so Ody the Player has the freedom in his next post to describe what he does with the remaining coins!

Time Frame is now as follows:

World of Aihrde
Region of Aachen
Outside the City of Heristat
Inside the Druid Oak Tree
10pm on Wednesday
Marrero 17, 101awd (After Winter Dark)

Mad Dog Muldoon Secret Conference
World of Aihrde
Region of Aachen
City of Heristat
Toothless Dragon Tavern
Late Afternoon on Friday
Marrero 19, 101awd (After Winter Dark)
Dagger had purchased the following items from the Mad Dog Muldoon Specialty Shoppe with the 5,000 Gold Coins he had received, in addition to whatever amount of reward the Dwarf had received from Mad Dog Muldoon as a member of the Stout Hearts:

1 Dwarf Full Chain Suit / AC +8 = 500gp
*** 1 Silver Dwarf War Hammer (Wide Silver Pattern Etched in Blade) Damage 1d10 +1 = 2,000gp
2 Potions of Cure Critical Wounds (5 Servings) 5d8 = 1,400gp [2x700gp]
2 Potions of Cure Serious Wounds (5 Servings) 3d8 = 1,000gp [2x500gp]
*** 100 Silver Bolts for Cross Bow = 100gp [100x1gp]

*** Silver Weapons do Double Damage vs Lycanthropes and +4 Damage vs Undead
[Wide Silver Pattern Etched in Blade Magically Enhanced]
The following is translated from a Dwarven Tongue spoken and understood by both Dagger and Mad Dog Muldoon, not necessarily word for word, just the essence of the conversation:

Mad Dog Muldoon: "Do any of the Seekers suspect who you really are ... or what you are able to do?"
Dagger: "None My Friend ... Especially the Cleric Bartimeous ... Who Would Rather Rejoin the Dwarves at Detmold ... to Gamble Away His Gold Coins ... Instead of Joining Us!"
Indeed, the Cleric of Toft, Bartimeous, had chosen to retain his 5,000 Gold Coins, along with his Bag of 500 Gold Coins from the Stout Hearts, rather than purchase any of the items offered the night of the banquet feast at the Mad Dog Muldoon Specialty Shoppe!

In fact, he had disappeared that very night, in the company of Willem, who had likewise held onto his 5,500 Gold Coins.

The Fighter had hired on as a Mercenary, a couple of hours after arriving in Heristat, to help guide and protect a Wagon Train of Invaluable Goods that were bound for Northberg.

Bartimeous had agreed to accompany him, for an additional fee of Gold Coins, as far as Detmold, where the Cleric would prefer to enjoy the company of Dwarves, rather than accompanying the Seekers on their dangerous journey!

Also, upon arriving at the Toothless Dragon Tavern, the Female Elf Bard Elyra, had received a message of invitation to return to the Bard School from where she had just graduated.

She was offered a position as an 'Instructor and Historical Archiver” with full benefits, housing and salary, if she were to ever make it back alive to the Toothless Dragon Tavern, which was an offer of a lifetime that she was unable to pass up!

As for Vincent, the Knight had also chosen to retain his 5,500 Gold Coins to help care for his mother, while he returned to the Knight's Training School with tales to tell and a purpose to alert the others to complete their training, to help defend the lands and regions this side of the Sea of Shenal, from the rumored 'Evil Taint' that was reportedly stirring its 'Dark Forces' to spread its vile filthiness to dominate the denizens of the world of Aihrde!

Crow had also unexpectedly departed the company of the Seekers, after being alerted that his mother was dying from some unknown cause!

Perhaps this mysterious affliction was linked to what had befallen the sister of Jaufre?

Dagger and Mad Dog Muldoon continued their secretive conversation in the little used Dwarven Tongue they both understand and speak fluently!

[They spoke of many things in hushed whispers, that neither any Red Dragon Inn Lurkers nor the Seekers need be made aware of at this present time!]
Finally, Mad Dog Muldoon began instructing Dagger to make ready all the supplies and arrangements for the Stout Hearts to transport the Seekers across the Sea of Shenal aboard The Toothless Dragon.

Their destination was as yet undetermined, but Mad Dog Muldoon promises to have an abundance of supplies for both the Seekers and the Stout Hearts to take with them on their journey!

Mad Dog Muldoon leaned forward to whisper in the Dwarf's ear, in case there be any Spies about who may be able to read lips, even in the little used Dwarven Tongue:

"Captain Crayfish and the Stout Hearts should be docked in plenty of time to load the extra supplies I am sending with them and the Seekers!

"Have them ready to ship out the morning of Tuesday ... Day 30 of Marrero!"

Meeting with Mad Dog Muldoon
World of Aihrde
Region of Aachen
City of Heristat
Toothless Dragon Tavern
Early Evening on Monday
Marrero 15, 101awd (After Winter Dark)

Amur listened to the new party member, Damar an elvin ranger, speak of the mission they had been on and how he lost the other members of his party. The young boy was glued to the story and remained silent as he slowly munched on the delicious delicacies provided by their host.

Later, after the group meeting/feast began to break up, Amur caught a short moment with Damar and approached him when he caught the Ranger alone.

“My Pardon sire,” the boy said and appeared to give a little bow, “I am Amur, the .. ah.. guess ya could call me the lock and trap specialist.” He grinned. “I just want to say it will be a pleasure to adventure with ya and I will try not to let the yall down.”

He waited a moment for a reply and then simply nodded and left the hall.



Some time later
When the group had finished their purchases and had gathered to discuss their next destination when they shipped out tomorrow, Amur was quiet and let the others throw out possible destinations. If asked where he thought they should go he simply shrugged, “Any of them places are fine; I think adventure awaits no matter what.” He gave his, what was becoming typical, little grin.

The day before they shipped out, Amur checked around and found a secure courier that could be trusted. He paid to send his remaining funds (200gp I believe) off to the Orphanage of the Red Buttons in Eluythus; he sent a simple unsigned note with the payment that said only 'Thanks!'
When the ship was ready to depart, the boy had all his things packed in his single drawstring bag which he slung over his shoulder. Dressed in his new armor, now adorned with the Red Buttons from his old armor, and wearing his new weapons and purchases, the young boy called simply Amur of the Red Buttons stepped about the ship ready for further adventure.

(OOC: Sorry on not having a detailed time-line for the last part of this post but all the Interludes and posts have thrown me off and I am not sure what is what at the moment. )

Abalore motioned to the Shaman to take a seat at the table and inquired if he would care to join him in an informal lunch of bread and cheese, with a tankard of ale to help wash the taste of the city out of his throat, while they discussed possible business? The elderly man with the Toothless Dragon Cane with the Open Maw Asked the Shaman to tell him of the journey he had just concluded. The merchant could see the eye patch Tohmas wore. The tanned good looking Wild Druid related his tale, telling of the Adventure and the events that had drawn the seeker closer.
Tohmas spoke of the “Tears of Altira” that had healed his companions and of the bravery they showed in battle. The lowered his head, then looked into the eyes of Abalore.

“When I was sent out after my training I was told that in time a Clan would find me. I had thought that would be of among my people. But Altira sees wider than her simple servant, she has led me to where I am needed. These Seekers will need one of the Wimachtendienk, “the Brotherhood,” to stand with them, care for them, defend them and heal them.

But my skills of the wild will be of little use if I am easily injured. The leathers I wear I have prepared myself,” Tohmas fingered the outline of a woman’s face, Altira, he had tooled into the left shoulder “and it suits well against rough travel and ever some meager attacks……..

The weapons I carry serve well in the hunt to provide food and may fend off a thief or wild animal, but we are going to where there are creatures of strength and evil. A hunting bow and the simple tomahawk I have crafted will fare ill against that what awaits my clan. ………Amur has told us of to seek you out. That here one may find the crafted tools of war. If I am to defend my clan I would ask …. if you might share with a follower of Mother Earth.“

Nudging the bag of gold coins Tohmas continued,” I have brought the coin that is traded here for goods, I would also pay for information as to where to find the Elders of Altira.”
The Gnome named Ody, had eagerly waited on the two at the table, just like the young Rogue had described to the Shaman, anticipation growing in his eyes that another interesting deal was in the making between these two!
Abalore motioned to Ody, whispered something in his ear, then sat back with a broad smile, as the Gnome scampered off somewhere beyond the curtain in search of whatever it was that the elderly Stout Heart had decided to bequeath to the Shaman.
Before the Gnome returned, Abalore leaned forward and asked the Shaman to hand over a mere 100 Gold Coins, sight unseen, for whatever Ody was searching for in the back room.

Tohmas sensed he could trust to old armorer and knew that this was the simple request of good will. Extending his hand in friendship Tohmas was surprised when old man gripped his with hand shake of those of the Order of the Arrow.

Opening the bag he quickly counted out the coins, stacking them neatly before the man across the table.

i>The Gnome finally returned, he was carrying a +5 Hide Armor, which he presented to the Shaman, then hurried off behind the curtain once more!
Tohmas took the armor, it was light yet he could feel the strength and perhaps magic that had been crafted into the pieces. The dark tones of browns and greens were dyed into it, enhancing it so it would blend into field or forest. The touch was soft and supple, it had been sewn with care so that seams were protected and yet not bulky. The treads blended into the hide with double and maybe even triple stitches for strength. All across the hide were sewn reenforcements that took on the look of limbs and leaves.

As the Shaman held out the shirt, there on the on the left shoulder was the delicately tooled image of a woman’s face; surround the image was a framing of tooled leaves in a wreath of Oak, Maple and Ash.

Tohmas removed his buckskins, stripping down to a simple loin cloth. After carefully folding his old ware he smoothly glided into the new armor. The Shaman was filled with wonder as the hide seemed form to him as it touched his body. The smells of earth rose to his nostrils as if the hide were part of lands he was sworn the honor. His soft soled boots almost felt as they were merging with the hide as he pulled them back on. Standing next to the table Tohmas felt the strength and simple splendor of the amror Abalore had provided.

The Shaman was so engrossed, gratefully examining the +5 Hide Armor, that he did not notice the Gnome returning with another item, which he handed to Abalore.

Abalore eyed the Shaman, taking full measure of the weight of Tohmas's worth, then set a Silver Edged Tomahawk on the table and began to say:

"This once belonged to a friend of mine ...

"He fell in battle ... fighting 'The Taint' ...

"This tomahawk is a powerful artifact weapon ... it cost me the use of my left arm ... when an enemy picked it up from where my friend had fallen ... and used his very weapon against me!"
Abalore pushes the tomahawk towards Tohmas and continues saying:

"Now it is yours ... my gift to you ... I have been waiting a long time ... for one such as you to come through this door!

"This blade thirsts to avenge the innocent blood ... shed by 'The Taint' ... take this with My Blessing!"
Abalore looks the Shaman directly in the eyes as he receives the precious weapon.

"Ody will escort you to Daragard the Druid ... He will know it is a sign of 'The Rising Taint' ... when he sees this tomahawk in your possession!

"This once belonged to His Father ... and His Father Before Him!

"He Will Help You!

"He gave it to me for safekeeping ... to hold the weapon that cost me my arm ... until I found 'That One' who would be willing to take this weapon into battle ... against the 'Dark Forces' of 'The Taint' ... No Matter What the Odds!

"It Is Yours Now!

"So Go!"
Ody bows to the Shaman and beckons Tohmas to follow him.
Tohmas stood in awe as he gently took the near perfectly balanced hand weapon. The silver edged blade shown radiantly in the lights of the shop. There etched in the head were the symbols of the faithful. This had been made to honor the many deities that protected the earth and its creatures. Finding the sign of Altira he smiled as he touched it. The handle was hard strong Oak, it was worked with inlays of White Ash and pieces of carved gem depicted the symbols of Earth, Wind and Water. The honor that Abalore had bestowed was not lost on the Shaman. Tohmas slide the weapon into the belt loop of his new armor.

Raising his hands palms out Tohmas utter a simple blessing, “May the spirit of all creation abide with you, may the loving hands of Mother Earth cradle you and protect you and those you care for in your charge.
Wimachtendienk, …..Wingolauchsik,…….Witahemui....... Brotherhood… Cheerfulness…Service.”

The elderly Stout Heart waited a few moments, then thanked Tohmas as he escorted the Shaman to the door, explaining the finer points of his newly acquired weapon.
Tohmas followed Ody out of the shop and into the streets. It soon became clear that there was a strangeness to the Gnomes wanderings.

(T0 Be Continued.)

Uncle remember I have asked Elyra to stop in when she gets home, maybe you can convince her to do a show in the inn if she is not busy. Also send my love to Father and Mother and tell the Bar Fly boy's that little Areldor has women that are more beautiful that their Wila Petbrook. Well again Uncle thanks again for all your training. That and the goddess has gotten me this far. Now I wonder what is to come. I will do my best to contact you in the future In the grace of the goddess Areldor (Hero of Minerva)


"Who is this Elyra and Wila you mentioned?" the voice came over Areldor right shoulder which startled him. "Diana, I am glad I was finished or I would have messed up...again." He blew on the ink and moved the papers aside on the desk to dry. He knew that a messenger was leaving from the temple here tomorrow and could drop off his letter at the temple in Waltershem on his bi monthly circuit were his Uncle would receive it. Areldor got up and turned to face Diana" Elyra was the elf bard on the adventure I just came from and Wila is women that some guy's at my uncle's tavern would talk about having no equal in beauty and the such especially when they drank... a lot, but the thing was no has ever seen her." "Well here is the scroll case you asked me to get and you need to leave to make it back to the "Toothless Dragon" in time for your performance." "Oh thanks for this and for reminding me" Areldor spoke with a big smile as he made eye contact the half elven woman.




Diana was one of three women that Areldor found to his liking during the last 5 days and she was moving up the list. Diana was 5 years older than the illusionist but both being part elf it did not matter much. He took the case from her and made sure he contacted her hand as he held her gaze. He could see the fire and spirit that he saw the second day visiting the temple. Areldor took the offer of his goddess and looked for a wife. Believing that all his steps are guided by her, this must were he was supposed to find her. The second day back he got started. He did not start on the day he was" kissed by the divine" That day there was too many there who had to meet and sometimes touch the "Hero of Minerva". It was a very busy day for Areldor and very draining by the end late that night returning to his employers free room. The around noon on the following day, Areldor had to have a meeting with Mad Dog about doing some work in the tavern. He explained to Mad Dog that he spent all of the gold on and what had transpired at the temple. Areldor told him that he needed to raise funds to buy rations for the journey he was sending them on. "My Uncle taught me to earn my keep." The burley tavern owner honored the request and Areldor was allowed to put on a show once a night until he left. This would allow the illusionist during the day to spend time studying in the temple library and practice his spells and last but not least some time with one or two of the handmaidens he was drawn too. Then at night he could talk to the other seekers and share any information that he had gathered with them.


The illusionist made sure the ink was dry and then rolled up the three letters and put them in the scroll case, then sealed it. He then again made eye contact with Diana, he handed the scroll case to the green eyed beauty as he asked the question. "Can you please get this to the messenger's office, I really need to get to the tavern early tonight." "Yes Areldor, hope you have a great show tonight. Maybe I will come down and see one show before you leave on your journey." her voice had the sound of future expectation in it and when he handed the scroll to her she made sure to touch his hand. Areldor felt the touch and looked at her face famed by her chestnut brown hair that had a natural curl but was pulled back away her from the face. He broke his gaze he spoke and then he did he gave her a kiss on the forehead "Thank you, Diana and you will see one even if not at the tavern I will one here for you that I promise. I will be back tomorrow." After that Areldor quickly headed for the tavern.

Tohmas followed Ody out of the shop and into the streets. It soon became clear that there was a strangeness to the Gnomes wanderings. As they passed this way and that, at times doulbling back and then off again in odd direction Tohmas inquired as to why they traveled such an intricate path? “Spies “was all the Gnome would say. They continued on through the city. In time the Shaman came to appreciate to care that the little guide put into his charge. Just as care was needed to track in the forest Tohmas watched the care Ody put into this trek. To the Shaman it brought back memories of his youth, there in the forest he and friends played Fox and hounds.

The day burned by and as the sun set behind the building the gnome made his way closer and closer to the city’s edge. After hours of trekking through the filth and grime of the back streets it was more than refreshing to Tohmas to finally work their way into the forest on the northern edge of town.

Working their way in the darkness among the trees the gnome stopped at a gnarled old oak tree, with a small hollow in its trunk. Ody was squeezed himself into the opening. Tohmas waited patiently, for some kind of explanation of the Gnome's new antics. About twenty minutes later the Gnome squeezed back through the hollow, with a great big smile on his face, exhorting the Shaman to follow him. Tohmas looked puzzled at the Gnome, ”Kichkinet (guide) only by the will of Altira could I pass through that opening.” Then as if his goddess was listening the opening began to expand. Soon it was wide enough for the Shaman pass without needing to bend.

Once inside Tohmas knew this was a place of magic and spirit. The space inside opened beyond what the girth of the tree would have allowed. Here was a large room filled with the signs and symbols of the keepers of the lands. A council of Druids sat around a naturally beautiful table, the time aged and polished remains of a mighty Oak served as the center piece of this War Room. The Elders now sat quietly as they watched Tohmas approach. Rising from the head of the table was a tall and stately Elf, dressed in an Elven War Robe, with an unmistakeable emblem of Atira emblazoned upon the top of his staff. This was Daragard. In a soft lerical voice the venerable Druid Daragard encouraged Tohmas to share with the Council of Druid Elders all that had transpired since the Shaman had become a Seeker, including what had happened earlier that day at the Abalore Arms & Armor.

Tohmas obliged, this time covering in detail all the events of his time as a Seeker. He told of his hopes to learn the ways of the adventures so that he might use that to perhaps some day to return to the ancient lands to the east. He told of the days spent with Crow learning the ways of the city. He told learning to sleep under a roof in a bed and of thing called a chamber pot. He told of the voyage to the island and of the ways of his companions. Of the strange ways of the sailors and of their courage, strength and honor. He told of the trek into the decimated city and the battle with the living dead. Of the eye patch that saved their lives. Of sharing Altira’s blessing to heal those that had been strangers but were now united. The Shaman then took a breath and told the Council of how he had felt in his heart after the companions had joined in the Rain Dance that Altira had shown him his clan and these were now his charge to serve and protect.

As the time pasted the story of the hidden stairway, the treasure, the beaked dragon all poured forth. Again telling of how the group banded together to escape including that from the pirate ship and how Altira had spread her blessing to bring the winds that allowed them escape safe. Tohmas spoke of his time sharing with the Illusionist so both would understand the magic of the Fire Stick and the responsibility it carried to use it wisely.

Time did not not seem to pass the same here, was it hours, was it minutes, what ever it was it was enough for the Shaman to share the events . He spoke of the dinner, of the offer to fight the evil that was coming, the great items he had purchase that Mad Dog had provided.

Standing before them he showed them the fine Armor Abalore had sold him and the Tomahawk Abalore had given him. He finished with the wandering of his Kichkinet Ody to find this place.

Daragard asked to see the Silver Tomahawk that Abalore had bequeathed to the Shaman, passing it from one Druid Elder to the next and so on, as proof positive that the prophesies of old had now become present day reality!

The Druid then proclaimed his approval to all in attendance, including Ody, that his blessing was upon Tohmas to indeed wield his father's Silver Tomahawk, as the Shaman would be journeying west to confront the unknown Dark Forces of The Taint, which they feared was seeking to resurrect its evil presence among the unsuspecting innocent denizens of the lands stretching far and wide across the regions of Aihrde!

Furthermore, it was acknowledged that no news or dispatches of any kind had been delivered by way of the port cities of Icanthos, Leanthos City, Frieberg nor Orgstall in well over the past nine months!

It was also common knowledge among the Druid Elders and Daragard himself, that not only were there no messages delivered from the realms beyond these port cities, from any of the Druid Dispatchers, but they were also concerned that the amount of goods, gold, jewels and treasures had also dwindled down to a mere trickle into the holdings of Mad Dog Muldoon, who had proven in past times of trouble and turmoil to be a faithful ally against the previously defeated Dark Forces of The Taint, during the Great Wars: a dismal and grim conflict that had been fought and won with great sorrow and the shedding of blood, lives and lost innocence!
Then there was much secretive discussion among the various members of the Council of Druid Elders and Daragard, before an agreement of sorts was reached around the table.
Daragard spoke then to Tomas and offered to spend some exclusive time before the Seeker Shaman was to depart aboard The Toothless Dragon with his fellow Seekers who had chosen to make the uncertain journey. Daragard was pleased with the choice of this oddly assorted clan to pick this Wild Druid as their keeper. He would be spend time providing additional Druidical Training and Insight, including the ways of their common deity Atira, in times of battle against the forces of evil, that even now seemed to be spreading and threatening to expunge the beauties of the natural order of things, all across the lands and regions of Aihrde.

Finally, the Council of Druid Elders and Daragard agreed to provide the Seeker Shaman Tohmas with additional weapons from their arsenal of items that were secreted away in their War Chambers.

Long moments later, the Seeker Shaman was presented with a Staff of the Woodlands. ” This staff has been handed down many times growing in strength over the years. There was a Shaman that had cared for a band long ago known as the Crimson Crusaders that crafted this on his journey. I think you will find an affinity to it as it has been held by your ancestor.” Tohmas marveled at the staff, it was beautifully inlayed and carved. The history of the staff could be read by those that understood the symbols. The sturdy staff looked of dark aged Oak but it had the feel of Ironwood. Each end was sheathed in hot forged iron that added balance and provided deadly force when used as blunt weapon. Tohmas knew this was something of great importance. But he could also feel the spirit and magic that was stored inside to be called fourth in time of need. Along with this the Druids gave him a +2 Oath Bow with 20 Slaying Arrows. Daragard told him of their strength and magic against Orcs. He explained also its benefits against other foe.

Tohmas admired the prizes he had been entrusted to care for. Then Daragard asked if there was anything else Tohmas needed to share. It was then the Shaman remembered his talk with Jaufre.

The young Paladin Jaufre had spoke of his sister Gale and of the Apothecary Savantes. Tohmas told Jaufre’s story of how the fighter had join the seeker to earn money to help cure the strange illness that had taken Gale. But now Savantes had determined that she was victim of a strange Pin that has seemed to curse her. Savantes suspects it is an old evil that controls the pin and that perhaps Jaufre might find out more of it in his trek west were this Pin is to have been made.

The Druids showed great interest in this storey and pressed Tohmas to tell them more, but there was no more for him to tell. They talked among themselves and grew concerned for the safty and heath of Guetis for they knew what afflicted her might also come to others. The old evils were making there way even here.

Tohmas pulled the sack of remaining gold coin and placed it on the table. “I had intended to give these coins as an offering to Altira, but you may know how to better use them to watch over the girl Gale. As I tend Jaufre as he seeks her cure please tend to Gale so his quest is not in vain. The Druids remained silent but Tohmas noted the sack was gone.

Before leaving Daragard took Tohmas aside and told him a simpler way to find the tree, Ody was a good soul but at times could have a flair for the theatrical.

After a prayer of blessing for the Druids Tohmas and Ody returned to the city. This time as Tohmas found a street he knew he bid Ody a Goodnight and return to the Inn. The remaining Days the Shaman spent in the tutelage of Daragard as he prepared for the journey west.

Mad Dog Muldoon Secret Conferences
World of Aihrde
Region of Aachen
City of Heristat
Toothless Dragon Tavern
Early Evening on Saturday
Marrero 20, 101awd (After Winter Dark)

It was prior to one of the performances starring Areldor that Jaufre met with Tohmas to discuss the condition of his sister Gale.

The conclave of Druids had made good on their promises to aid the stricken young woman, the information somehow being conveyed to the lips of the Shaman Seeker during his first encounter with Daragard and the Druid Elders via some type of Scrying Stone that the Gnome Ody had discreetly placed upon the person of Tohmas, prior to their entering the old gnarly Druid Oak.

Without the Shaman Seeker being aware of what was happening, the information of the 'Plight of the Pin' that had affected Gale, was transferred from his lips to his lips, through some type of time/space transference of information, during an earlier meeting with the Paladin Jaufre.

Guetis had done his best to aid and ease the demise of Gale, but it was the additional aid during a 48 hour vigilance ceremony conducted by several of the Druid Elders, secretive in their every single solicitude that seemingly stanched the strange symptoms of the unknown arcane affliction; thus giving the lovely young maiden a new lease on life, held in the hopeful healing of a curative coma, awaiting an awakening from her awful aberration!

This could only be done by the Seekers discovering and then hopefully finding the means for destroying the source of these substantive symptoms, be it a secret spell or arcane artifact, that had heretofore drained the life force from Gale!

Guetis was honored by the company of Druid Elders that had convened themselves at his humble Savantes Apothecary, so he did everything in his power to assist them, before being ushered out of their presence, during the most secretive of their ministrations.

Therefore, the Paladin Seeker and Guetis spent a great amount of time together, as Jaufre showed his old friend the Map that Mad Dog Muldoon had given the Seekers prior to their first journey.

Yet during most of their discussions, his old friend Guetis could only vaguely provide the Paladin Seeker with any useful information.

This seemed to be the case with all the rest of the Seekers, who by now had all agreed to sail to the Port of Orgstall, with hopes of sailing up the Unkwood River towards Dunulag (Deep Home) in search of a cure, while doing their part to help quell the coming chaos of the Dark Forces of The Taint, which now had become a relentless reality!

Day after day, a multitude of warriors trooped through the Toothless Dragon Tavern, ushered into the Private Banquet Hall, sometimes emerging hours later, laden with items obtained from the Mad Dog Muldoon Specialty Shoppe.

Most were being sent to the Port Cities of Grel-Et, Icanthos, Leanthos City and Frieberg; to both investigate and do battle against anyone or anything, that had strangled the commerce between these Port Cities and Heristat.

It had become increasingly apparent that Mad Dog Muldoon was much more than a mere merchant. He was a Great General, now marshaling a multitude of mercenaries, as he had done so many years before during the Great Wars, that had bloodied the Lands and Regions of Aihrde!

A ship or two of these warriors were already enroute to the Port City of Orgstall, but the Seekers were resolute in their reasoning to sail to Orgstall, whenever The Toothless Dragon and its crew of Stout Hearts were ready to make the journey!

Pooling Information The following information is all that the Seekers have been able to gather these past few days!

Land of the Ulgars Loosely translated from an ancient Elvish Tongue means 'Land of the Horrendous Hurts!'

Twilight Wood Site of many battles during the Great Wars where Elves and Dwarves and Humans banded together for survival during some of the bloodiest battles!

Gelderland Loosely translated from an ancient Elvish Tongue means 'Land of Massive Slaughters!'

Land of the Othines Loosely translated from an ancient Elvish Tongue means 'Land of the Perpetual Pathos!'

Mount Norling Site of many battles during the Great Wars where the Dark Forces of The Taint assembled from points further north and west to establish strongholds!

Renuel-Aet-Faus An Elven City of trade and commerce between Elves, Dwarves and Humans where the waters of Lake Faus ran red with the blood of Friend and Foe alike during the Great Wars!

Dunulag Site of many battles during the Great Wars amid rumors of a missing Dwarf Prince, an apparent Heir to the Throne of the King, who went off into battle and did not return!

Bergrucken Mountains Loosely translated from an ancient Dwarven Tongue means 'Mountains of Crimson Chaos!'

Castle of Spires Formerly a Human outpost for trade with Elves and Dwarves that was rumored to have been laid seige to by the Dark Forces of The Taint, during some of the bloodiest battles of the Great Wars, which may or may not have now fallen into ruin over the years?

Grel-Et Mostly Human Port of Trade

Icanthos Mostly Human Port of Trade

Leanthos City Mostly Human Port of Trade

Frieberg Mostly Human Port of Trade

Orgstall Mostly Human Port of Trade

These were the only reliable revelations, sifted from among the vagueness and fearfulness, expressed in hushed whispers, lest the Dark Forces of The Taint somehow hear and retaliate against the tellers of such tales!

Jaufre Obtains a Shield Jaufre did manage to obtain a suitable shield during a visit to Abalore, after much coaxing from the Seeker Shaman Tohmas.

Having already surrendered his Bag of 500 Gold Coins to the Druid Elders, in hopes they could cure, or at least stanch the arcane affliction robbing his sister of life and vitality, the Paladin Seeker had nothing more to bargain with in hopes of acquiring a suitable steel shield.

However, he was armed with the noted eye patch, plus a tale of a coming quest to free his sister from the clutches of the arcane affliction!

Abalore did his part once more, unable to join the fight for freedom in person, he whispered to the Gnome Ody, to bring forth a certain item from behind the curtain!

Ody returned with a gleaming steel +2 Lion's Shield emblazoned with the blazing sun design of his deity Cedrus, surrounding the Head of a Roaring Lion!

Note from the Castle Keeper:
This +2 heavy steel shield is fashioned to appear to be a roaring lion's head, surrounded by the blazing sun holy symbol of Cedrus!

Three times per day the lion's head can be commanded to attack (independently of the shield wearer), biting with the wielder's BtH bonus (including multiple attacks, if the wielder has them) and dealing 2d6 points of damage!

Treasure Seekers
Cast & Characters
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [played by Archangel] a level 2 (Half Elf of Elf Lineage) Rogue worships Hermes Tohmas Goodwood [played by Odyson] a level 2 (Human) Druid worships Atira Mylos Goldspinner [played by Brundel] a level 2 (Gnome) Bard worships Amber O' The High Woods Jaufre Vanvoie [played by Tuned_Out] a level 2 (Human) Paladin worships Cedrus Areldor Glanolwath [played by Ziklag] a level 2 (Half Elf of Human Lineage) Illusionist worships Minerva Andamarithalan aka Damar [played by Raven] a level 2 (Elf) Ranger worships Oercus
Previously in Treasure Seekers The number of original Seekers who are willing to journey westward to do battle against the Dark Forces of The Taint have been cut in half to five!

However, the Elf Ranger Damar has agreed to join them!

Destination Orgstall
World of Aihrde
Region of Aachen
City of Heristat
Docks
Before Dawn on Tuesday
Marrero 30, 101awd (After Winter Dark)
The Toothless Dragon bobbed up and down in the rough waves of the Sea of Shenal, as the faint outline of the walls surrounding the Port City of Orgstall came into view on the distant horizon.

The Stout Hearts were bending their backs, as Captain Crayfish barked his orders to row for the mainland, while Dagger peered through the ghostly mists swirling from the surface of the waves.

Suddenly, the looping coils of a hideous sea monster slithered thrice around the mid section of the ship, as a fanged, serpentine face broke the surface of the waves, twenty feet in front of the bow, its bloody maw opened wide, hissing as its slavering tongue flicked in and out, its slanted serpentine eyes bulging wildly from a broad cobra shaped head, focused upon its helpless prey, held fast by its coils in the swelling waves of the turbulent sea!
Gasping for air as he searched for a suitable weapon or spell to repel the monstrosity, Dagger awoke from the haze of the intrusive image, his bedding soaked in sweat from his alarmed body!

It was only a dream!

Dagger decided there was no use in trying to go back to sleep. Instead, he refreshed himself as best he could, quickly bathing from a bucket of fresh water, before relieving himself in private.

Then he dressed himself in clean undergarments, pants, shirt, Dwarven War Tunic (where he secures his 2 Potions of Critical Wounds and 2 Potions of Cure Serious Wounds), soft leather Dwarven Battle Boots (each side secured with a Silver Dagger: 4 total that each do 1d6+1 Damage) and a Dwarven War Headband with a familiar looking (to the Seekers) Holy Symbol of his Dwarf War God prominently displayed upon his forehead.

Then he decided to don his Dwarf Full Chain Suit and secured his Silver Dwarf War Hammer on its right side. He also had 3 specially made quivers for his Cross Bow Bolts that hold 50 Bolts each (2 for the 100 Silver Bolts and 1 holding 50 regular Bolts); however, he decided not to carry them, nor his Light Cross Bow, but secured them in a readily accessible compartment near the base of the main mast of The Toothless Dragon.

The first faint rays of the light of dawn were fast approaching as Dagger stationed himself at a strategic location on the dock, awaiting the arrival of Mad Dog Muldoon and the Seekers.

Meanwhile, Captain Crayfish and the rest of the crew of Stout Hearts were now up and about, making ready for the voyage westward to the Port City of Orgstall. The anticipation of bloody battle hung thick in the atmosphere as they made ready the ship and stores!

Mad Dog Muldoon Contributes to the War Effort There was just enough time for Dagger to prepare himself in prayer, before Mad Dog Muldoon and his small entourage of workers arrived at the dock, ahead of any of the Seekers, who were already on their way to the ship.

Orders were given and the Stout Hearts began loading the following items to help for the defense of Orgstall:

1,000 Daily Rations of Mixed Dried Meat and Dried Fruits in Season
1,000 Silver Arrows for Bows
1,000 Silver Bolts for Cross Bows
1,000 Silver Lead Balls for Slings
1,000 Regular Arrows
1,000 Regular Bolts
1,000 Regular Lead Balls

100 Silver Elf Long Spears

25 Heavy Cross Bows
25 Long Bows
25 Slings

The Seekers had arrived just in time to witness the loading of these items. Mad Dog Muldoon explained to the Seekers that if the time ever came where the city of Heristat was in need of supplies to fight against an assembly of evil forces, then it was only reasonable to send these supplies now to Orgstall, as an act of good faith and brotherhood.

"If'n der rumors 'o da Dark Forces 'o Der Taint be true ... din Orgstall be needin all da help dey kin be gittin!

"Ye answered me notice fer stout uv heart explorators!

"Now we be needin stout uv heart warriors!

"Me 'n plenty 'o me other Stout Hearts wud gladly be goin wit ya!

"But we be needed fer da defenses here abouts ... if'n der be uglies skulkin agin us from beyond der eastern borders 'o Aachen!

"Fer where dere be war ... dere be uglies 'n nasties skulkin near dese parts!"
Ring of Sustenance Then he motioned to the Seekers to gather around, as Mad Dog Muldoon began passing out one Pearl Ring to each of the Seekers, including Damar and Dagger.

Mad Dog Muldoon then instructed everyone to place the ring on the finger of their choice, admonishing each one to keep them there day and night, until the magical properties became attuned to their bodies and would then take full effect in another week (Aprero 7).

Taking a few more precious moments to explain the properties of the pearl ring, Mad Dog Muldoon made sure that each Seeker fully understood the function and importance of wearing a Ring of Sustenance!

Note from the Castle Keeper:
This Pearl Ring continually provides its wearer with life-sustaining nourishment.

The ring also refreshes the body and mind, so that its wearer needs only sleep 2 hours per day to gain the benefit of 8 hours of sleep!

The ring must be worn for a full week before it begins to work. If it is removed, the owner must wear it for another week to re attune it to himself.
100 Gold Coins Before the Seekers go aboard The Toothless Dragon, their benefactor Mad Dog Muldoon gives each of the seven members 100 Gold Coins in case they need to spend any coin once they reach the Port City of Orgstall.

100 Acres of Land Finally, each Seeker is asked to sign a promissory deed that entitles the recipient to acquire 100 Acres of the Prime Land of his choice, upon returning to the Toothless Dragon Tavern, as a reward for his victory over the Dark Forces of The Taint.

Mad Dog Muldoon apparently has plenty of land available for the victors to choose from; in the event they survive the countless unknown adversaries and bloody battles they may encounter during the course of this adventure!

Black Bag of Tricks As Mylos the Gnome Bard examined each of his newly acquired 100 Gold Coins, the Gnome Ody came scampering down the dock with an item that Abalore had recently paid him for his devoted service to the Elderly Seeker.

Ody quickly explained what was inside the Black Bag of Tricks and hurriedly, but thoroughly, explained how to use this precious item.

Mylos was the first Gnome that Ody had personally known about, who was willing to confront the Dark Forces of The Taint, even if it was only because of the lure of acquiring gold and valuable treasure!

Therefore, the Gnome Ody wanted to do his part to aid his fellow Gnome with a magical item that could possibly save his life!

Besides, there were plenty of other items available to Ody, should the time come when he may be pressed into duty to defend the populace of Heristat, against any foul evils that would dare threaten its borders!

Note from the Castle Keeper:
Black Bag of Tricks
01-30 Brown Bear
31-60 Lion
61-80 Wolf
81-90 Tiger
91-100 Razorback Boar

This small black sack appears to be normal and empty of contents. However, anyone reaching into the bag feels a small, fuzzy ball at the bottom.

If the ball is removed and tossed up to 20 feet away, it turns into an animal. The animal serves the character who drew it from the bag for 10 minutes (or until slain or ordered back into the bag), at which time the animal disappears.

The animal can follow any simple commands (Castle Keeper's aka Hammer's judgment), is produced at random by the above percentile dice and only one may exist at a time.

Up to 10 animals are allowed to be drawn from the bag each week.
Ody also greeted the other Seekers he had met earlier, when they sought purchase from Abalore the now Elderly Seeker.

While speaking with the Seeker Shaman Tohmas, the nimble and cunning Gnome managed to retrieve the Scryer Stone from where he had placed it days ago, realizing that the distance between Daragard and the Shaman Seeker in the coming weeks, would be far greater than the magical properties possessed by the stone!

Down River to Eluythus Once on board ship, the Seekers settled into the routine of taking their appointed places, while each of the Stout Hearts and Dagger went about their business of following the orders of Captain Crayfish, as they made their way down the Innes River towards the Port City of Eluythus, before traversing the Sea of Shenal that lay between them and their destination: the Port City of Orgstall.

This journey was unlike their previous trip down river on the way to the Island of Tagea. There was no time for resting, fishing, swimming or picnicking.

The threat of War stops for no one here on Aihrde!

Night began to fall as The Toothless Dragon drew near the docks of Eluythus, where the Seekers could plainly see row upon row of a mass of people armed with flaming torches, arrows at the ready!

There was no bawdy cheering between the Painted Ladies on the Docks and the Stout Hearts this time, as The Toothless Dragon made its way silently and swiftly to where the mouth of the River Innes meets the often cruel embrace of the Sea of Shenal.

Captain Crayfish ordered his crew to set sail northward, as the Seekers watched what seemed to be hundreds of archers setting fire to their arrows, all along the nearby docks!

Dagger motioned to the Seekers to hold steady; as neither the Dwarf, Captain Crayfish nor any of the Stout Hearts seemed to be the least bit alarmed by the assembly!

Flaming Arrows shot into the dark sky, arcing above and beyond the path of The Toothless Dragon, from the bows of those assembled on the docks of the port city!

Such was the custom of honor displayed by the populace of the Port City of Eluythus, for War Ships putting out to sea!

The Toothless Dragon slowly made its way up along the northern coastline of Ebensfield Downs towards the Castle Aachen, in an effort to put as much distance as possible between The Toothless Dragon and the islands of Tagea and Ioni.

The skies had clouded over and the winds were blowing erratically, impeding the progress of the war ship, as it made its way along the coastline northward for nearly 100 miles.

After a day or two, the passing of day and night were almost imperceptible, as the dark clouds imprisoned the sun and blue skies overhead for as far as the eyes could see!

Then came the torrential downpours of slicing rains!

This was not uncommon to Captain Crayfish, Dagger nor the crew of Stout Hearts who were experienced by their years of traversing the high seas of the Sea of Shenal; however, the Seekers were not accustomed to such conditions and had to make the best of a most uncomfortable situation!

At the beginning of the voyage, they were content to scan the coastline, making sure that there were no signs of enemy movements encroaching upon their homelands, but as the sun was blotted out and the darkness gave way to torrential rains, it was all they could do to ride out the storms!

About the fourth day, the Stout Hearts were able to guide The Toothless Dragon in a westerly direction, against the high winds and tossing waves, while the torrential rains beat down upon them as they gritted their teeth and bent their backs to the task confronting them!

They told stories and encouraged one another, making light of the fact that the waters were nigh treacherous, but their songs of mirth and gusto had a calming effect upon the Seekers, who found themselves joining in on occasion!

The Toothless Dragon was tossed north and south, east and west, but somehow the Stout Hearts found the means to get back on course and slowly advance the ship westward. It was a marvelous thing to behold, how the crew knew just when to allow The Toothless Dragon to be driven by the winds and tossed by the waves, before renewing their efforts to guide the ship relentlessly towards their destination!

Dagger was focused upon helping navigate the ship and Captain Crayfish always seemed to know exactly which direction on the compass the ship was being driven!

About the sixth day at sea, there was an extreme test of courage for the captain and the crew, when the rains seemed to dissipate, only to reveal a massive whirlpool that was urging The Toothless Dragon to succumb to its watery embrace of the grave!

However, the Stout Hearts were not novices to this type of danger on the high seas!

It seemed to be a battle of wills for the better part of another day, but the crew of The Toothless Dragon prevailed against the elements as they slowly guided the ship to the west of the watery trap, before another deluge of the elements tried to drive the ship back towards a watery grave!

Undaunted, the Stout Hearts prevailed against the elements once more, as they guided The Toothless Dragon ever westward in their quest to traverse the Sea of Shenal, while the company of Seekers could only trust in the prowess of the crew and their individual deities, to grant them safe passage across the turbulent waters!

Fortunately, none of the gear, nor any of the provisions, were lost to the wind swept seas!

The Toothless Dragon had been built for such rigorous conditions and seemed to fare much better in adversity, than it did when the waters were much calmer!

The party of Seekers were comforted in their distress by the fact that Mad Dog Muldoon had given each member a Ring of Sustenance; especially when the seventh day had passed and they became aware that they did not need to eat or sleep as much to keep up their individual strength and courage in the midst of the driving rains and howling winds!

Several days followed with the ship being tossed north and south, as very little progress was made towards the west. If there were any streams of projectile vomit coating the deck of the ship, the driving rain swept the deck clean, before any trace of vomit could make its presence known!

Thankfully, the raging storm settled into a driving drizzle of stinging rain, pelting the ship and crew mercilessly, in the aftermath of its seeming unnatural efforts to sink the ship at sea!

Within two more days, land was sighted as The Toothless Dragon passed well south of the island of Thuleya, caressed by the warming Aprero winds that bid the raging storm goodbye!

The next day they beheld a marsh land north of the Twilight Wood, where they marveled at the spectacle of a large number of Barbarian Warriors in heated battle against a hostile tribe of migrating Hill Giants; however, the crew of The Toothless Dragon were not swayed by the circumstances to put into shore to join the battle!

Especially when several large boulders were hurled into the surf by a handful of Hill Giants, obviously as a warning to leave them be to their battle against the Barbarian Warriors, as the crew of The Toothless Dragon bent their oars and put further out to sea, giving the scene of battle a wide berth, as they shouted words of encouragement to the Barbarian Warriors and epithets of derision against the hostile Hill Giants as the ship slowly passed from view!

They kept an ever increasing wide berth from the shores of the Twilight Wood, noting strange sounds emanating from the depths of the foreboding trees, along with an occasional terrified scream!

Once or twice the Seekers thought they heard the faint sound of steel upon steel, but they were not certain, as their minds and ears began playing tricks upon them as they passed along the coastline!

Besides, they had preparations to make, having seen the evidence of conflict along these western shores, as The Toothless Dragon drew ever nearer to Orgstall.

After another day passed, with even more ominous sounds emanating from beyond the western shores, the Seekers and Stout Hearts were admonished by both Dagger and Captain Crayfish, to get a good night's sleep, as they should be arriving at Orgstall sometime after the first light of the following day!

So they all heeded this battle tested advice from their veteran leaders, settling in for a much needed time of rest and dubious relaxation, as The Toothless Dragon slowly made its way southward through the dark of night, guided by a current and the sure hands of its crew, who took turns guiding The Toothless Dragon towards its destination.

The crew began to stir a little after dawn on this Twentieth (20th) day of Aprero, as Dagger shouted to his fellow Stout Hearts and to take heed to the horizon!

In the far distance, just barely discernible to all but Dagger, could be seen an ominous plume of black smoke, rising from the foundation and walls of the Port City of Orgstall!

Squinting their eyes in the morning sun, the hardened features of the crew and Seekers were slightly caressed by a gentle breeze, as they stared in disbelief at a most unexpected sight this new Aprero morn; along with an alarming, auditory alert of ominous origin, a message urgently carried aloft by the mid spring wind: the sound of a faint clashing of weapons locked in pitched battle!

As they slowly drew nearer to Orgstall, the attention of the ever vigilant Dagger was drawn skyward to the silhouettes barely discernible in flight above the besieged city!

Holding his peace, so as not to alarm his comrades prematurely, he concentrated his focus upon the dark figures high overhead in the distance, well aware that everyone else was focused upon the lazy plume of smoke arising, as well as the now audible din of battle emanating from the city!

Both the Stout Hearts and the Seekers were preparing themselves for the imminent battle, as the crew set themselves to rowing at battle speed, chanting war songs as they rowed the ship!

Then when Dagger was totally convinced that his deductions were true, especially when he espied the four (4) dark silhouettes changing their course from above the Port City of Orgstall, transforming themselves into a staggered formation making its way towards The Toothless Dragon; the Dwarf War Cleric shouted out a blood lusting battle alarm to the Stout Hearts and Seekers, as he pointed both arms skyward towards a point high above the besieged city:

"ORCS On ROCS!"

Mylos waited by the docks looking out into the sea, wondering what awaited him in the next port he visited. He suspected that his surroundings would be far less peaceful. The sun beamed down on the water giving the ocean a golden sheen, much like the coins he held in his palm, perhaps it was an omen.

His thoughts were interrupted when the fellow gnome Ody approached him with a small black pouch in his hand. How curious he thought to himself. The Gnome, a similar stature and build to himself, explained what lay in the pouch. Apparently at the base of the bag lay a small ball, when this is thrown to the ground an animal appears, and from what Ody told him they were fearsome too.

When the seekers stepped onto the deck of The Toothless Dragon the atmosphere of the crew had changed considerably. The smiles that had previously adorned their faces were replaced with cold, stern looks. Mylos’ almost permanent smile vanished and was replaced with his best attempt at looking tough.

The journey itself was also far different than that of their, relatively pleasant, cruise to the isle of Tagea. Night fell and seemed to illuminate the flaming torches and arrows, worryingly pointed in their direction from the shoreline of the port Eluythus. The Stout Hearts and their captain were somewhat overly calm about the alarming weapons.

The arrows were loosed and Mylos felt himself wince. He itched to find cover on the vessel, but since no-one else appeared to be taking such cowardly precautions he stood fast. The arrows’ path looped high over The Toothless Dragon and hissed as they fell into the sea, far enough away not to worry him. It appeared this was not an act of deterrence, but instead a tradition of the city and soon huge, bulky and powerful ships began to traverse their way down the River Innes. The arrows were a declaration of War.

Dawn came on their second day of travel and Mylos rose, feeling surprisingly refreshed. He strode out onto the deck, the sky today was not as golden as the day they left, in fact it was quite the opposite. The cold morning air bit through his clothes and tore into his skin and rain hammered down, the thuds were audible as the drops crashed about the wooden planks around him. A shiver rolled up his spine, to Mylos this was a feeling of pleasure and a smile crept onto his face. He had always loved the feel of the natural elements on his skin; whether it was plunging headfirst into the rivers that flowed into his homeland or stripping down to his underclothes when a storm hit, letting the gods of nature berate him, it made him feel alive. Mylos looked down at the waves crashing into the ship’s bow and decided that he would not be taking a dive into this body of roiling water any time soon.

The storm hit even harder day after day and Mylos was thankful that Captain Crayfish had kept close to the shoreline, otherwise the storm may well of destroyed the ship. If the worst did happen and the ship began to break apart under the duress of the storm at least they would be near shore and a few of them may make it to the nearest beach alive.

On the fourth day Mylos was highly encouraged by the positive relationship, both the crew and their Captain had; the weather had reached even new heights of ferociousness, yet The Toothless Dragon still made its way westward to the city of Orgstall. The crew were in a good mood throughout trading stories and singing songs and Mylos as the resident bard on the ship helped to lead some of these sing-alongs.

Day six and the storm had finally given up on its unrelenting assault upon the ship and its crew. Mylos gave a thankful prayer to all of the gods he could remember, but a few minutes later he regretted alerting the gods to his cause. Clearly, not all the gods he his tongue had mentioned were those with good intentions towards him.

A body of water, gargantuan in size opened up through the trailing fog of the storm. It swirled impossibly fast, waves of a size he could scarcely of imagined crashed into one another. Mylos had never seen a thing so wonderful, its destructive power was incredible. Time seemed to slow. Adrenaline pulsed through his veins. Only a few of the sentient beings who had ever lived in this land had seen a thing of so much wonder and although his death may be imminent he felt privileged, he was almost happy for his life to end in such a maelstrom.

His life however, appeared to be in safe hands and once more he was astounded at the competence, trust and courage of the Stout Hearts. Seemingly through the sheer will of Crayfish and his crew The Toothless Dragon dragged its way clear of the impressive feat of nature.

After a few hours of calmer weather and seas the feeling amongst the crew and the seekers seemed to be a mixture of relief and anticlimactic excitement. After several more days of drizzly rain and uncomfortable and unexciting weather the ship managed to reach the isle of Thuleya and the weather began to improve.

More land became evident the next day and there was more new sights and excitement for the young Gnome Bard. A great marshland surrounded by a few thickets of trees held stage to a skirmish between Hill Giants and Barbarian warriors. Mylos had never seen a giant before and had always thought that they were creatures of myth used to scare infants in their cots. Here though, they were clearly real, ferocious and dangerous. Mylos was so wrapped up in the ensuing battle he did not notice the Hill Giants lifting great boulders and hurling them into the surf! Mylos began to jeer and shout at the hostile giants noting some of the more grizzly insults which the crew were launching at the Giants in reply to their boulders.

Strange sounds began to be heard from the shoreline as the ship progressed closer and closer to their chosen port of Orgstall. It put Mylos on edge and after the stressful voyage he was beginning to wonder if he had got himself too entangled into a battle that wasn’t his.

After a well needed good night’s sleep and time for silent reflections Mylos awoke to the howls and shouts of the Stout Hearts, it would appear their destination was in sight. Once Mylos was dressed he opened the hatch from down below and entered onto the deck and the sound of steel on steel was carried faintly by the breeze. They were late. The battle for Orgstall had begun!

Mylos was busy, fiddling with a coin and worrying about the trials and tribulations the sudden shout by the ever aware Dagger made him jump. He fumbled the coin and bent to pick it up and he realised what the Dwarf War Cleric had just shouted.

“ORCS ON ROCS!”

Mylos knew what an Orc was, as did most of the races of Airhde, but what was a Roc. He scanned the horizon but could see no enemy upon the sea. Only when the other crew members begun pointing into the sky did he look up and see the magnificent, winged creatures. A thrill of terror went through him and he was reminded of the magnificent maelstrom he had witnessed and how he had come to terms with his own death. The fear was still there, a niggling worry, but he didn’t feel the need to run. He had friends with him, comrades of a hard voyage. He would stand fast. His bolts would fly true. So this was courage he thought to himself, the thing I have read about in story books, the feeling heroes have in the times of danger.