Vindication of the Merchant Nation

These adventures take place within the nation of Sembia and the surrounding area.

The Main Characters

 * Calvin Ford is a traveling salesman played by Jorge Jaramillo.
 * Wein McCloud is a treasure hunting swashbuckler played by Joe Cruz.
 * Eustace Califomme is an old artificer stepping out of the shadow of his father; played by Ignatz.
 * Perseus Von Eshkabel is one of the last true Cyric worshipers left played by Keith Novack.

Honorary Mention
 * Rudolph Kaizer a traitorous mercenary played by Joe Cruz.
 * Cygnus Feldrush a retired Silver Raven who came pack in pursuit of his old duties and his good friend Calvin Ford.

Main Non-Player Characters
Supernatural Fiends and Devils (Minions)
 * Etlab, the arch fiend lord of the Hidden layer of the Abyss who has a vendetta against Thay and particularly Szass Tam.
 * Telaeos Selosaine, the lead representative from the Cult of Eltab into Sembia.
 * Melset Abris, the second in command of thralls in the Cult of Eltab.
 * Soltairus, Marlilith general of Eltab's armies who had planned on attacking Ordulin in revenge for the lives of Taleos and Melset at Duke Derekson's house.
 * Demogorgon, the Prince of Demons who took over Eltab's layer and ordered Khaldun to relay the news to Eltab
 * Asmodeus, the Lord of the Ninth Circle of Hell the Nessus and the lord of all Nine Hells. Asmodeus orchestrated the whole scheme for a small amount of peace and the ability to kill and Arch Fiend.
 * Spark Hunter, Asmodeus's messenger and powerful minion that carries out his will.
 * Dhansis Khaldun, the first Regent of Asmodeus and well experienced Agent Retriever who betrayed the Gleaners. He's also Karma's boss.
 * Karma Lectcitus, an urban ranger who makes a living smuggling goods into Sembia.
 * Mellatusigg Pelgratarim, a horrible ancient creature known as a Linnorn and Khaldun's second in command.
 * Mephistopheles, the Lord of the Eight Circle of Hell and master of Tillenbirg Keilrecht. Mephistopheles still has ambitions to rule Toril.

Sembian Merchant Council
 * Kendrick Selkirk 2nd, the current Overmaster of Sembia and the son of Emperor Miklos Selkirk.
 * Duke Derekson, a member of the Sembian Merchant Council and former member of the Legion of Light.
 * Albert Tillman, the assistant of Duke Derekson of the Sembian Merchant Council.
 * Rinald Boxworth, a Red Wizard that works in the Sembian Merchant Council
 * Markaedus Callahan, a senior member in the Sembian Merchant Council and young Kendrick Selkirk's adviser.
 * Bartholomew Talendar, the acting head and Overmaster of the Sembian Merchant Council until Kendrick is taught.
 * Herald Daleheart, a new member in the Sembian Merchant Council in opposition of the direction of Sembia
 * Jameson Moonshine, representative from Yaerlun who is believed to be in the Cult of the Dragon.
 * Lawrence Dracon, a new member of the merchant council who is related to Sembian nobles in where killed for treason in the Silver Ravens.
 * Drelenore Foxmantle, a member of the Sembian Merchant Council and a member of the noble Selgaunt merchant families who was acting head of the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin.

Red Wizards
 * Tillenbirg Keilrecht, a high ranking Red Wizard who worships the arch devil Mephistopheles
 * Alinard Solkern, a high ranking Red Wizard who represents the dissent against Tillenbirg
 * Thumara-sal Telslith, a high ranking Red Wizard sent from Thay to work under Alinard Solkern after the death of Senten Zassif.
 * Willard DuCain, the old head of the Red Wizards in Sembia who presently adds as the main economic head between Sembia and Thay in Selgaunt.

The Devil's Laugh/ Thieves
 * Rubbin Kaizer, Rudolph's brother and current head of the Devil's Laugh in Saerloon.
 * Illera Martiory, the true identity of The Blue Orchid, a famous (or infamous) cat burglar operating in Ordulin who worked the Sembian Merchant Council as an accomplice with Bartholomew and Rubbin Kaizer.
 * Zalnulphir, a female drow who lead the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin worshiped Mephistopheles who worked with Tillenbirg.


 * Manshoon, the old leader of the Zhentarim seeking to regain the power of his old organization.
 * Palar the Darkhearted, an infamous Black Guard who obtained the Manifesto that helps defeat the upcoming Spell-Plague.

Supporting Non-Player Cast

 * Lambert Burroughs, a halfling follower of Lathander who is investigating Callahan's housing and involvement with the Monks of the Dark Moon, and their involvement with the Children of Woe.

Guards, Silver Ravens, and Purple Dragons
 * Shel-Taire, a rugged sorceress who helps coordinate the trade and business between Silverdale and Selgaunt
 * Jacob Twiddlefinger, an older man who drives the caravan and accompanied the party to and from Silverdale.
 * Gisborn Neucomben, a veteran to the Silver Ravens who is not pleased with the current state of affairs in Sembia.
 * Erik Campolo, a Silver Raven who works directly under Gisborn who helped navigate you through the Underdark.
 * Lady Merelith, the captain of the guard in Saerloon and former states woman.
 * Magnus Tillman, Albert Tillman's older brother and a Major in the Purple Dragons.
 * Olmrick Olmrave, a general in the Purple Dragons who is involved with the agreement between the Orcs and all the other parties.

Orcish Officers
 * Icthorac the Strong, the head of the orcs that liberated the orcs from the Ithilids.
 * Gendricanus the Wise Horn, a wise and power minotaur that is allies with Icthorac and helped him in his pursuits.
 * Nazzinagul the Mage Blight, a necronic orc that worked with Icthorac the Strong.
 * Fulgrim the Death Champion, a powerful or barbarian who was Icthorac's best friend.
 * Cralowtatus the Swift Fingers, the scout in Icthorac's person group of officers.

Background NPCs
Jonas's villains, friends, and just plain weirdos
 * Donovan Illvenry, an extremely powerful vampire golden elf whose prided himself on his nearly perfect track record as a hunter that was foiled by Jonas Califfome.
 * Kazama Gururai, an ancient spirit who has terrible revenge against the Califomme family for stopping his conquest in Kara Tur.
 * Dario Forgram, Jonas Calofomme's best friend who went insane after a trip to the blood marshes.
 * Greymus Tallmuth, student of Dario Forgam that traveled and tried rid his master of his inner demons.
 * MeLuis Rollenbrocket, an old gnome that worked with Jonas on several of his finest inventions.
 * Gomand Pusk, and epic gnome wizard who seems completely insane, but has access to hundreds of artifacts.
 * Leon Pleonnmake, a young man who rules the Neo-Zhentarim with an outdated job to assassinate Jonas Califomme.

The supporters of Loss and Trickery
 * Char Fek, a shade who represented the shades in Champions of Loss's meeting in Saerloon, whose mission is to kill Lambert Burroughs.
 * Larloch, an 1900 year old lich who knew Karsus. Now he is rules over the Monks of the Dark Moon, second only to Shar herself.
 * Vinnrick, is one of the Children of Woe. Vinnrick seeks allies to defeat his counter parts and become the new Cyric.
 * Grahm Bakura Mandalax, believed to be part of the Children of Woe who has seemingly unsurmountable power and Shaarans working under him.
 * Mirabeta, Kendrick Selkirk's sister and aunt to Emperor Selkirk. She is really Evil.
 * Lord of Loss, the voice of Shar in the Champions of Loss.
 * Mandrick Melphis, a drow that is working under Rubbin Kaizer to help inform Rudolph and give him new objectives.
 * Lannister Selsic, a Cyric follower working with the Monks of the Dark Moon in Saerloon.
 * Ballaric Mosephis, a Sharran assassin hired by Callahan to guard and kill Duke Derekson.

Thomas's group in Sembia/ merged with the Rune's Hand and the Church of Tiamat
 * Thomas Smith, a man who contacted Rudolph Kaizer and told him not to trust Rubbin Kaizer.
 * Millikin Pelorak, a half elven vampire mercenary that work Mr. Thomas on behalf of the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin.
 * Janet Tainoret, an assassin hired by Callahan from Thomas Smith to guard and kill Duke Derekson.

The Story
Tarsakh 18th: Sembia declared war on Cormyr. The events that lead to the declaration war were based on the events that took place during Swordpoints of the Sea Hook. After Miklos Selkirk's death, Sembia needed a form of retaliation. The war itself remains as a use of non-violent diplomacy and negative sanctions. Tensions remain high as the Sembian government becomes more suspicious of its allies and itself. Debates heat up about the right course of action.

Mirtul 10
Albert Tillman has grown tired of secrecy and actions of the present Sembian government. Too afraid to act on his own, he looks for people to help him investigate the corruption of the Sembian government. His efforts involve giving out vague interviews to people and deciding who would best suit his needs.

Throughout his searches, Albert found many Sembian mercenaries who were ready and qualified to do a job, but he was afraid that none of them were trust worthy. While taking notes with his boss, Duke Derekson, they investigated the house of the famous and powerful artificer, Jonas Califomme. Jonas was long dead, but Albert accompanied his boss and several Silver Ravens to try to gain some notes that Jonas collected while working with the Gnomes to help Sembian Navy develop the dreadnought. When they knocked on the estate, they found his son: Eustace Califomme. All the men wanted were Jonas's notes, but they were disappointed to know that they could not make use of them. After Duke Derekson left with the Silver Ravens, Albert saw a chance to talk to the son of the great Jonas. Eustace was an older man of few and decisive words. Albert was glad to know that Eustace was glad to have a chance to help his country, but Albert needed to investigate the location of a large humanoid creature.

During business talks with his friend Karma, Albert sees a stand with exotic souvenirs that catch his attention. Albert is smooth talked and feels compelled to buy something. After the transaction, Albert takes notice to his attire and asks a question about his abilities. A short interview happens, but Calvin Ford is no stranger to this situation. Albert Tillman find himself stumbling over his words trying to convince this salesman to work with him. In the end, it is Calvin's curiosity that causes him to accept the job offer.

After a busy day, it is still only the afternoon Albert sees a man with a great axe standing near Duke Derekson's house and Albert's office. Seeing the armored man, Albert asked him his business there. The man introduced himself as Rudolph Kaizer, a mercenary desperate for work. He had an honest appeal that seemed like naiveté. Despite Rudolph's mercenary attitude, Albert felt he could trust him.

Toward the end of the day, there was a knocking on the door of Duke Derekson. Duke answered the door; a cleric in dark attire stood there. Sensing no evil, he allowed him to speak to Albert before he left to go back. Perseus Von Eshkabel is soft spoken and quick-witted. Surprised to see that a cleric would show up, on his own for a chance to help, he was a bit suspicious, but also happy to have him here. After a quick interview, he left and Albert had talked to four people that he was happy to have work for him.

Mirtul 11th
Early in the morning, Albert walked and saw the four people waiting for him. He introduced himself to all of the four people together. They were all anxious to see what they would do, but Albert gave no specific mission. He told them the situation with the war and the corruption in the government, but there was no plan to deal with it. It was at this point that Eshakabel became impatient. After being put on the spot, Albert gave a down payment of 500 gold to each person. All he asked the party to do was to attend the Merchant Coucil meeting the next day. With the down payment, the party accepted job.

It was at this point that Albert left for some business. Most of the party decided to get acquainted with each other, but Calvin Ford was interested in why Albert left so quickly. He pursued Albert as he walked out of the city. Albert looked nervous and walked a good distance away from Ordulin before he stopped. That instant, a man wearing a symbol of a purple dragon appeared. These two had a long conversation. At the end of the conversation, a man in robes wearing a different symbol came and they both disappeared. Albert turned to go back to Ordulin when he spotted Calvin Ford. Calvin Ford expressed his curiosity about what he saw, but Albert only replied that it was "family business" and let out a sigh. At this point they both walked toward the city as Albert left to do other business.

Just crossing the next corner, Karma sees Calvin Ford and he is excited to see him. Recalling the first time they met, Karma was interested in asking Calvin Ford for an opportunity to sell goods that Karma imported from his other business associates. Karma promised Calvin 20% of the cut from the shipments, and Calvin Ford was given a bag of holding full of the supplies. The bag was full of long swords and rapiers that were meant to be sold at the weapon stores in Ordulin. Calvin would spend a good portion of the day selling the swords

The rest of the party spent the day together eating and talking about their reasons for joining the team. It was after their dinner at the Shackled Pig that Rudolph Kaizer had a visitor. A drow came over and grudgingly asked to speak with Rudolph Kaizer. The drow remained unnamed and sought to see if Rudolph established himself in Ordulin. After a short conversation Rudolph returned to his comrades as the drow left. Shortly after the drow left, Calvin found the rest of the party and the party introduced themselves to Calvin. There was already some tension as Eshkabel seemed to have reason not to trust the actions of Calvin Ford.

The day was getting old and the party knew they had a long meeting tomorrow.

Mirtul 12th
Early in the morning, all four met with Albert again in front of the house of Duke Derekson. Albert invited them to sit in at the merchant council meeting. The great hall lays int he center of Ordulin, gated off from the rest of the city. The hall is a truly large and magnificent building that can hold hundreds despite the fact that the Sembian Merchant Council only numbers at 23 members. The hall is very relaxed about its audience despite its immense security. Albert often finds himself taking notes and becoming bored at these meetings, but this would be the first meeting where the new Overmaster, Young Kendrick Selkirk II, would sit in and comment on the meetings. This was also the start of the war-time meetings for the merchant council, and their permanent residence in Ordulin until further notice.

At this point all the council members took their seats as they started the opening ceremonies. The party got see all twenty-three members. At the center of the building, there were three seats for the Overmaster and the two most senior members. Kendrick sat in the middle as Markaedus Callahan, an a cunning senior member sat the left and the acting head, Bartholomew Talendar, sat to his right.


 * Overmaster: Kendrick Selkirk the Second
 * Advisor: Markaedus Callahan
 * Temporary Head of Council: Bartholomew Talendar
 * Senior Members: Kendrick Soarnal, Matthew Lansing
 * Mid-Term Members: Duke Derekson, Terran Showman, Allan Citano, Capperella Altec, Emuthe Seaspring, Randal Hammelhand, Tiroir Sosec, Luscious Davis, Rinald Boxworth, Jameson Moonshine, Herald Daleheart, Panetta Uskevren
 * New Members: Drelenore Foxmantle, Lawrence Dracon, Toredale Swissenson, Michael Stevenson, Janith Albright, Jason Jucandis

The first order of business was a briefing on the situation with the war and reestablishment of the old constitution of Sembia, reinstating its plutocracy over Emporer Selkirk's Monarchy and the Oligarchy after he died. The second order of business was to outline the issues that would be talked about in the meeting.

At this point, Kendrick demanded that to hear about the investigation of his father's death. Tiroir Sosec stood up. He was an older man in robes, and he spoke very softly. He said that he was directly responsible for the research found on the death of Emporer Selkirk. The first thing Tiroir said was that they have no idea who did assassinated Miklos. At that point, Kendrick was yelling in disbelief. "How couldn't you know?" he yelled on the floor. Tiroir talked about the investigation of the estate of Miklos Selkirk around the time when he was discovered dead. His body showed no sign of struggle, and he only had one wound to the head caused by a crossbow. Tiroir made it clear that there was no records of any mercenary in any of the major cities to assassinate Miklos. This evidence was not irrefutable, but it is the best evidence as of thus far. Tiroir started striking down most of the rumors about the possible causes of death for Miklos Selkirk. Several people believed that a Paladin by the name of Michael Illent killed Miklos, but it was clear that the person who killed Miklos was an experienced assassin.

The second half of the investigation involved the use of "speak with the dead" on Miklos Selkirk. Miklos Selkirk himself never saw his own assassin before he died. Since the arrow was sticking out of his forehead, Tiroir made the observation that this could only have been done by an expert assassin. Kendrick is infuriated by the fact that so much was done, but they still have no idea who is responsible for his father's death. Kendrick starts pointing fingers at the other council members when another member, a woman in purple robes by the name of Jameson Moonshine speaks. She makes mention to the fact that Sembians are very good at covering their tracks and that Miklos had no shortage of enemies. This investigation will not be quick or easy. Most likely, there are probably only a few people in the whole nation that actually know how he really died. Kendrick begins to calm down, knowing that it is improper accuse the council of the crime.

Talendar speaks about the trade embargo placed on Sembia by Cormyr and all of its allies. With both Starmantle and Cormyr, most other nations took their side against Sembia. Talendar suggests to strengthen ties to Calimsham. Markaedus Callahan speaks about the movement of the Dragonmere Trading Company working with the Cormyr Blockade against Sembian Ships. When this happens a young man who looks like a paladin steps up with an angry face. "Sembia has the best navy in all the seas, how can they blockade us?", he says with stern tone. Duke Derekson stands and retorts, "Herald Daleheart, the Dragonmere Trading Company has good ships, and Cormyr has their War Wizards. There is no guarantee that we will win.  Sembia cannot afford to lose its Navy if we want to stand any chance in this war".

Matthew Lansing, a senior member and a powerful businessman, speaks about opening borders of Sembia to allow more free trade with independent businesses. Lawrence Dracon, a man with his axe makes a point of the dangers of opening your borders when you neighbor your enemy. Markaedus Callahan says that Sembia is its economy. The relief wealth will not last for much longer. Soon, the embargo will stratify the Sembian if action is not taken. Dracon is greatly afraid of the Purple Dragons, and as a former Silver Raven, he is even concerned about the Harper Agents. Several council members take sides on this issue. It is clear that this is an issue that the merchant council has a divided opinion.

A man who says with a stern face "What about our territory to the North? I've noticed that we haven't traded with them, and that we haven't even tried." Lawrence Dracon speaks again "Toredale Swissenson, the Silver Ravens have investigated the area between our borders and Silverdale. Aside from the orc attacks on every carriage and caravan that travels between the main land and Silverdale, there is a strong presence of Purple Dragons there." At this point, this is when Callahan restates his point about opening the borders and goes on his new tangent about new allies.

Bart speaks again, and says that Sembia still has both Calimsham and Thay as allies and both are well established. Given that Sembia uses its relief fund to strengthen its navy, those two nations should help fund the war in against Cormyr. Thay is now indebted to Sembia and owes Sembia money for the investment in Impultor. Rinald Boxworth, a greasy looking man in robes stands up and suggests not to ask Thay for money. "Thay has its own problems to the east, they are likely not to respond to our plight. If anything, we should work to keeping our allies on the best terms that we can." Bart, who is usually composed, is now irritated that this man is suggesting that we respect Thay's conflict when they owe us money and we are at war. An older member, Kendrick Soarnal mentions the drow as possible allies again. "I remember Kendrick's son was good allies with drow. Maybe they can help us gather supplies through the underdark." Tiroir mentions that a drow is currently one of the most likely suspects in the former Emperor's assassination, thus stratifying our relationship with the drow. Lawrence also makes a point that it was Miklos Selkirk himself that worked over the drow. It is hard to say how much the Silver Ravens could accomplish in the Underdark without him. Drelenore Foxmantle, a close relative of the famous and rich Foxmantle family in Selgaunt, mentions the Cult of the Dragon. Jameson makes mention that the Cult is bankrupt. Despite the fact that the largest cell for the cult is in Saerloon, that is not where the Cult of the Dragon gets its money.

Callahan speaks about a new ally over in the east. Shortly before the war, many of the people in government were either in investigations on the death of Miklos Selkirk or possible reactions to his death and the events taking place after Impiltor. Callahan said that he searched for new allies realizing that Sembia might lose allies after accusing Cormyr. Callahan talked about the Cult of Ehbentu. Callahan said that Ehbentu was an Arch Fiend who fought Elminster and Simbul over 300 years ago. The cult established itself to the east, but they are looking a strong base in the west after he was defeated around the Sword Coast. Herald stand up outraged that anyone would consider working with an arch fiend. Duke Derekson has a terrible look on his face when he agrees that Sembia cannot be picky. Herald cannot believe that a paladin would agree to work without a fiend. The hall breaks in silence as Jameson says that any ally should have the opportunity to show that it would be in Sembia's benefit to help them. Callahan mentions that they are extremely rich, but want the house in Saerloon that belonged the Zhents. Bart holds that there can be no vote on the use of a new ally until there is a representative or that group that speaks on its behalf.

On that note, Bart dismisses the council, the party stretches and they are Eshkabel has no problem expressing his lack of interest in the issues. Albert leaves the party to speak to Lawrence Dracon. He asks Dracon if he has anymore additional information about the lack of trading with Silverdale. Dracon is thoroughly offended by this question and storms out. Albert returns with a look of defeat. Duke Derekson walks up to the five of them curious to see why his assistant brought four people to watch a council meeting. Albert lies saying that he needs a bodyguard. Duke Derekson is very sharp and senses the lie immediately. Duke Derekson looks sweaty and nervous, he merely tells Albert to make sure that they do not get in his way and then Duke Derekson leaves.

Everyone leaves the hall and Albert finally knows what he feels needs to be inspected. Albert feels that there has been too little effort to try and trade with Silverdale. If Sembia declared war, then why is Sembia so afraid to mount any kind of offense. Albert mentions how there are caravans that travel from time to time that try to travel between the mainland and Silverdale, but they all get attacked by orcs. Albert asks the four of them to leave with a caravan leaving for Silverdale tomorrow. Albert will be leaving early tomorrow, but his friend Karma will be at the northern gate with the caravan and its driver. Right before he leaves, Albert tells them he will pay the other portion of their payment when they come back from Silverdale. Everyone is almost relieved to know that they are there for a reason and that they actually have a job to accomplish.

Calvin Ford leaves the party quickly to sell the weapons that Karma gave him to sell the day before. Perhaps with other thoughts on his mind, Calvin Ford doesn't manage to sell a single sword. The other three are about to leave when they hear voices. None of them see anything but both Eustace and Eshkabel can hear a voice. "Where is Jonas?", the voices keep asking. "Kazama demands to know, Where is Jonas?" the voices keep asking before they just stop. Everyone is confused, but there seems to be no long term effects.

Mirtul 13th
The four meet at the north gate early in the morning to see a man in black wearing a dew rag waving to them. This is the first time that anyone besides Calvin Ford has seen Karma. He greets them and the party meets up with Jaboc Twiddlefinger, the driver of the caravan. Karma leaves shortly after as Jacob talks about the route they are taking and the time it will take to reach Silverdale. Calvin Ford asks when the over caravans got attacked, and Jacob states records show that we lost track of them after they passed the Blackfeather Bridge over the River Ashaba. The River Ashaba was approximately one days travel on horseback going on Rauthavyr's Road. With no other questions, they left Ordulin.

The first day went by smoothly. On the first say nothing happened, but Eustace did see that there were several monks in black that were following their direction from far away. Besides this, the day was uneventful. The caravan stopped close to the River Ashaba and the driver slept as the four made shifts during the night. The night is uneventful.

The next morning the caravan starts moving again. Jacob made a mistake by stopping so close to the river. Eustace notices that something is trying to scout the situation. A poor situation analysis made the orcs aggressive and willing to attack the caravan. Eustace and Calvin Ford quickly dispatched most the orcs as Eshkabel ensured that there would be no one running back. It was only shortly after that the actual attack force arrived to see that their comrads were dead. Enraged and confused by the turn of events, they attacked immediately. The focus was to kill the four, but also cease the movement of the caravan. If the orcs could kill the horse, then it would only be a matter of time before they get reinforces. This battle was a much harder fight, but the party was victorious. The orcs were dispatched and with no casualties.

Mirtul 13th
On arrival at Silverdale, the party was greeted by a group of business people lead by a women in robes. She speaks loudly and greets Jacob Twiddlefinger. After a short conversation she walks over to shake the hands of the people in the party. She gives her thanks before she walks back to Jacob. To their surprise, there is no introduction as she moves on to talk with Jacob about business. The two talk about delays for the shipment back to Selgaunt. Jacob hands her a lettle with Overmaster Kendrick II's signature. Jacob mentions that this letter is given to every caravan that says the first of any shipment made will be retrieved in Ordulin for research purposes. Jacob mentions the military advancement necessary to ensure victory of the high seas. She sees the letter and calls it a forgery. After a few words from Jacob she calms down and walks into the business building in front of them. Jacob takes the horse and finds a horse for the way back.

For the next two days, the party finds themselves free to do as they wish in Silverdale. Eustace and Eshkabel spend the day together as they sell spoils of the battle. After Eustace sells the goods, both of them run into the woman again. She introduces herself as Shel-Taire. She asks them their names and tells them that there might be a delay for the shipment. The people in charge of gathering the shipments did not expect anyone to show up. Shel-Taire remembers the name Eustace and asks him what his last name. Shel-Taire tells Eustace that there is a young man by the name of Leon Pliommeake who is looking for him. She doesn’t really know much about him. Eustace asks if the man had any crest visible on his chest, but she did not see anything. She only knows that he is a young man in a dark piece of armor. She asks questions about the amount of orcs and the strength of the resistence. Eshkabel warns her that there could be more yet to come, but she is overconfident with her abilities and insists that they should test the route again to see if these forces were indeed enough to discourage trade from the mainland.


 * During this time Calvin Ford looking for a place to sell the swords he got from Karma. In one swoop Calvin managed to sell 100 swords at a great profit.  With the rest of his time he was making an item for Eshkabel.


 * Eustace continued to look around. Eustace and Eshkabel would travel the city after that meeting to see the note worthy temples and buildings.  They noticed that most the building in the town were newly formed.  While looking for an inn, they found the Beaver Feaver.  This was a greasy grimy, but happening inn.  Eustace and Eshkabel quickly showed their disconent towards this inn and left for another.  After finding the Silverdale Inn, Eustace started marking an item for himself.  Eustace would spend most of his time there.


 * Eshkabel would mostly remain secluded in his room. Early when he was with Eustace, Eshkabel got a sending from someone he didn't know inviting him to meet with monks in Saerloon.  Eshkabel responded with curiosity.  He was interested, but moreso than that, how did they know to contact him, and why?


 * Rudolph explored Silverdale by himself looking for all the major sites. After finding the main shop, Rudolph decided that he would upgrade equipment.  Rudolph has shown that he does not know the rules of the trade as he is consistently swindled by everyone he meets.  Becoming more aware of what is going on, Rudolph runs into Eustace to ask for his assistance.  Eustace's mercantile background makes him very adept to the shop scene, and the shop keeper is very aware to see Eustace and sighs and proceeds to sell his items at their actual store price.

The next day Jacob invited the party to a meal honoring what you did. Jacob was ready to take you to the Olive Garden. Shel-Taire sees you and takes you to the Locto-Tekka near by. There, you are served a large variety of steaks and other meat. Tomorrow morning, the caravan will leave. She says that both her and Jacob would be going back to Ordulin. Packing will take some time, so she asked Rudolph to help so that they can start in the morning. Despite the fact that orcs attacked the caravan twice, she is convinced that she needs to test the strength of the orcs that attackrd the caravan. After that meal, the whole party retreated back to the Silverdale Inn.

Mirtul 15th
After two days of rest Rudpolph wakes up first to help do a hard days work before he leaves. In a short amount of time, they finish the work and Rudolph is well paid for his services. The others show up ready to travel as they all get into the caravan again.

The first day remains uneventful. The party keeps a close watch, but there is no one to be spotted. During the first watch at night, Eustace is able to spot people and wakes the others. The caravan finds out that they are attacked by a group of human rogues. Through the use of excessive summoning, the rogues are quickly dispatched with only one survivor. Those that died had no distiguishing sign to show where they came from. No one is sure whether they are random thieves or people sent from Cormyr.

During the second day, a large group of orcs are quickly spotted. They are moving along side the caravan trying to surround the caravan. This attack is far larger than the other two and the party and allies are nearly defeated by this force. Both Shel-Taire and Jacob Twiddlefinger were nearly killed in this battle.

Soon after this battle, the group approached the bridge. When they crossed the bbridge, it was a safe trip back to Ordulin.

Mirtul 16th
After crossing the Bridge, there was a clear and safe path to Ordulin. When everyone arrived at Ordulin, the gates were not guarded. There were guards, but they did not question the arrival of the caravan. As soon as the caravan moved inside the gates; four Silver Ravens approached the caravan with Karma slinking behind. The Silver Ravens approach Shel-Taire that they have news of wrongdoings back in Silverdale. They express that she must return back as quickly as possible. The Silver Ravens offer to escort her back. The Silver Ravens made mention of the note given to every caravan that the fist of every major shipment would be sent to Ordulin for research purposes. They expressed great concern for the need of modernizing their fleet for the war. Shel-Taire is reluctant to except the request, but she reluctantly agrees and walks off with the Silver Ravens. Jacob looks worried for her before Karma walks over to the party and Jacob and starts asking questions. Karma seems energetic now that the Silver Ravens are gone. Jacob leaves quickly to see what is going on with Silverdale.

It does not take Karma long to focus his thoughts on Calvin Ford and his business plans. Karma lends Calvin Ford another Bag of Holding type one with 25 master work great swords and 24 master work great axes. Without collecting his old bag, Karma steps into a small building close to him.

When everyone arrives at the door of the estate of Duke Derekson, Eustace knocks the door and Duke Derekson answers. With almost sarcastic kindness, he lets everyone in and tells them that Albert is in his office. Everyone is there and Albert is the happiest he has looked since he has met you. He is curious about everything that happened. He asks if orcs attacked, how many attacked, and if they believed that it was effective deterrence for the Sembian army to trade with. Eustace, Calvin and Eshkabel say that there was an orc presence and Eustace gave a hardy answer exclaiming how this force was no where near strong or numerous enough to stop the Sembian armies. Albert asked if there was a difference between the attacks. Eshkabel noted the differences between each of these attacks. Albert said that one of his friends on the Silver Ravens, another reformer believes the orcs have a deal with Sembia to take the caravans. The theory was that the orcs would only arrive in small numbers expecting no fight. If fought and defeated, then they would actually send an attack force. That was the pattern with the attacks, but there is no guarantee that that theory was correct. Calvin Ford also reminds the rest of the party that they encountered human rogues on the way back.

Albert is pleased to hear all this information. At this point, he throws everyone a bag that each contains 750 gold. Albert expresses his continuing gratitude and gives everyone a piece of news that occurred when they were away. In the last council meeting, there was a an agreement to open the border of every city in Sembia. The guard's only duty now is to protect against a military strike. Markaedus Callahan managed to help pass the new allies bill that allows any non nation to petition their case to Sembia to become trading partners or allies throughout the duration of the war. Rinald Boxworth, the lobbyist for the Red Wizards went to Thay to ask for a large loan and support for the war. The council in a great majority voted against him when he declined asking Thay for aid. Albert also told the party that the sea battle has begun. In the last three days, an escorted Sembian cargo ship was sunk for the ships that belonged to the Dragonmere Trading Company and the The Cormyran fleet accompanied by the Cormyr War Wizards.

Albert tells everyone about his second job opportunity with them. His interests still lay with the orcs, but he is interested to see what they know at their base. After talking with Gisborn, the person who told him about the theory, Albert learned that the orcs on the surface came from the Underdark. The orcs were originally slaves of the Ithilids in the Middle Dark to scout the surface, but mainly to keep a keen eye on the drow that made relations with Sembia. Albert still believes that there is some kind of deal about what is going on between Sembia and the orcs, and wants to know if there is any kind of evidence of this agreement in their lair. Like the first job, Albert offers the party a down payment of 500 gold again to take this job. Albert assures everyone that they will not get paid any less than for the first job.

The main objective is still to gather information, but there are necessary preparation that need to be made before the party enters the Underdark. Albert doesn't know himself either, so he tells the party that they can go see Gisborn in the Hall of the Silver Ravens. This building is a barracks that is the main base for the Silver Ravens. Gisborn is a high ranking member and he knows Albert Tillman. It should not be too hard to speak to him. Albert says that the building is needlessly complicated, but that Gisborn should be easy to find. Everyone leaves to the find the building. Eustace is very familiar with the location because of his father. In fact, the building is actually only a block away from Jonas's house. When everyone enters the building, the party sees lots of activity inside. People are running from hallway to hallway and people are racing up and down stair cases. All of these people wear the crest of the Silver and it is only a matter of time when people at the front desk catch notice the party past the front doors. At this moment Eustace lights his cigar and walks up to the person at the front desk. They ask for their business in this building. Eustace mentions Gisborn. The person at the front desk asks for everyone's names to see if he is expecting anyone of that name to see him. When the shop keeper hears Califfome, he is surprised to hear that the son of the late Jonas is here. The man is excited and willing to grant the party some time to see Gisborn. He back through doors and in time, Gisborn walks down the stairs. Gisborn is a tall and wide man with dark hair and a very serious expression on his face. He is wearing a large piece of armor with the crest of the Silver Ravens on it. He greets the party when everyone asks him questions. Gisborn requests that he can speak to them in private. Gisborn leads the party down a long series of hallways and turns until they reach a questioning room in a far off corner of he building.

The party is assured that this is no interrogation. Gisborn thinks to himself and asks if you were sent by Albert Tillman. He is seems relieved to know that you are the people he was expecting to see. Like Albert, Gisborn is very curious of the outcome with the orcs. He states that it is commonly believed that the Silver Ravens can go back and forth between Silverdale and the mainland cities at will. The party tells Gisborn the same information that they told Albert Tillman. He actually asks the exact number of orcs that died in combat. Calvin Ford recalls and says twenty. Gisborn gives a surprised expression. "During the last check with the Underdark, before the death of the late and great Miklos Selkirk. The total orc population was only surveyed at slightly over one hundred orcs total.  Including women and children, I highly doubt that they would send over one fifth of their population to their deaths like that" Gisborn says rather shocked to hear that that many orcs attacked them.

His tone changes as he tells that party that he cannot go with the party to the Underdark himself. He is a very busy man and he cannot afford to leave his station. Gisborn says that he can send someone under him in his stead. There are several people would like to know what is going on. Gisborn assures the party that this person is qualified to go in the Underdark. Now Gisborn starts informing the party of provisions for going to the Underdark. They learn that they will encounter several physical shortcomings like air supply and poison in the Underdark. There are also tight spaces and steep cliffs in the Underdar. Gisborn gets worried as he tells them about the latest rumors about what is going on in the Underdark. There has been a group of Ithilids that moved up from the Middle Dark. Gisborn stresses that the party cannot fight Ithilids in their current state. The last warning is concerning the drow. With the drow on their side, there should be no fear of a fight, but he warned people to chose their words carefully around the drow. Without Miklos and with the current situation involving the investigation of his death, there is some tension growing between the drow and the Silver Ravens. Gisborn gets up and says "This is a secret mission and no one is supposed to know about this.  The Silver Ravens are the only ones here that are permitted to go into the Underdark.  This is an action against the Sembian government.  Be careful." On that note, he asks when to send Erik over to them. Calvin says that on the morning 8AM three days from now. Gisborn solutes and leaves quickly.

Everyone leaves the building and travels together to find provisions. Most the party buys rope and   ways to light their path. After buying the mundane supplies, both the artificers realize that they need a way to go around the poison. Eshkabel says that he is incapable of casting the spell the neutralizes poison. Calvin Ford thinks of making a mask that can control the air the enters. He tells Eustace about the idea and asks Eustace if he can tell Gisborn to change three days into five days.

Eustace agrees and leaves for the Hall of the Silver Ravens. He asks to see Gisborn during the same day, only an hour later. The person at the front desk looks at Eustace with confused expression and asks him why. Without thinking, Eustace makes mention of the trip to the Underdark. The person at the desk seems interested and asks why he wants to talk to Gisborn about this. Eustace says "preparations" several times, and the person at the front desk sighs and leaves to get gisborn's attention again. Gisborn comes over with a sour look on his face and tries to bring a more cheery face when he sees Eustace. When Eustace sees Gisborn, he starts talking about it in the open, and Giasborn angrily asks him to follow. Eustace is brought to the same room that was used earlier today. Gisborn has to remind Eustace not to talk about this in the open. Because of that careless action, there is now chance that Silver Ravens may try to intercept your path. With a sigh, Gisborn says that he can hopefully clear this mess without any confrontation. Eustace tells Gisborn about the delay, and the both leave.

Mirtul 17th-20th

 * During the five days, both Eustace and Calvin Ford are working on their gas masks. Both of them remain secluded aside from one note on Eustace's door in the middle of one night.  "I KILL YOU" was written on the note.  It was not written on the paper so much as scratched into the paper.


 * Eshkabel did not intend on doing anything during this passing time, he encountered someone from his faith. The person openly displayed their holy symbol to catch his attention.  Both of them caught up talking about the hardships that they have faced in the past.  The reason for meeting Eshkabel was meant as olive branch between two churches.  This is now the second follower of his god that requested his presence in Saerloon again.


 * Rudolph gets a message on the first day. This person introduced themselves an an enemy of the leader of the Devil's Laugh who is working for him as a client.  Rudolph is told that the person he believed was his brother was actually a doppelganger that is trying to stage a coup.  Rudolph is unsure whether or not to agree with this source, or how they even knew to contacted him.  The person sends one more message warning him that his clients might try to kill him if he figures out the truth.

Mirtul 21st
The party meets slightly before the time and notice that Eustace has a construct (Courage) following him around. At 8AM, a man with armor and a crest of the Silver Ravens appears. The party greets him as he introduces himself. Erik Campolo says that he is here to join those that work under Albert Tillman to investigate the Underdark for information on the activities of the orcs. When this happens, Albert Tillman leaves the house of Duke Derekson and spots Erik and the party. Albert tells everyone that he talked to Gisborn to have a plan that would allow for the use of a member of the Silver Ravens. Albert says that his brother is a diplomat from Cormyr and a high ranking member of the Purple Dragons. If he is supposedly escorted to Daerlun, that could warrant the use of a Silver Raven. Albert says that he is indeed going to Daerlun, but that everyone can accompany him so far, and then split off. Security can be sent back, so as long as everyone else gets back before Albert, there should be no problems.

On that note, everyone leaves together. After approximately traveling for four hours, Albert and the rest split up. Albert moves west towards Daerlun as the party moves east to the entrance of the Underdark that the Silver Ravens use to speak with the drow. After another three hours of traveling east, Erik find the entrance. It is camouflaged and hidden under leaves. After uncovering the entrance for around a minute, everyone sees a poorly carved staircase to move in.

It is pitch black almost instantly and everyone uses their light sources. Erik is calm compared to Gisborn about entering the Underdark, but he takes a more serious tone now that he enters Underdark. People prepare their light and everyone that has a gas mask puts it on. After crawling and crouching through tight spaces for a some time, everyone sees an large opening. It does not take very long before everyone sees an intersection. Calvin and Eshkabel ask Erik to tell them, and Erik says "left" in a tone that everyone knows is not 100% sure. For the moment, everyone is either unsure of his ability to guide them on the path or wary if they can trust him. Erik leads the path until he stops as everyone sees a group of Phaerlocks eating a corpse of what looks like a dead squid. Unprepared for combat in a small area, this battle is blood bath where the melee combatants and corpses surrounding them. After defeating the Phaerlocks, Eustace and Calvin Ford looked to see what the squid was. A closer look showed everyone that the dead body was an Ithilid that was killed by the swing of a great axe.

Everyone was concerned about how they would get down from the cliff. Rudolph, Erik and Calvin all had rope. Erik thought that he would tie the rope together and climb down. Eshkabel was still unsure about his abilities to climb down, even with rope. Calvin thought of the idea of putting Eshkabel in the bag of holding and throwing him down, and then opening the bag so he can get out. Erik climbed down first with no problems. Calvin threw Eshkabel down and Erik opened the bag quickly. Eustace climbs down second and makes it down with no problem. He takes his Humunculus out of the bag that Eshkabel was in also. Calvin was unsure of his ability to climb down and was thinking of the same idea for himself, but before he mentioned it, Rudolph climbed down the rope. Calvin grasped his courage and climbed down the cliff. At one point Calvin slipped, but he was able to regain his grip and finish climbing down the cliff.

Shortly after climbing down, the air seemed a good deal thinner, and Rudolph and Calvin became fatigued and out of breath. At the bottom of this cliff there are five different paths. Erik is saying what is in every path, and the path next to the path going to the orcs, he mentions the word treasure. Calvin Ford cannot help but be interested in treasure here. Erik states that it as a place to place spoils from the Underdark that the Silver Ravens could not take back to the surface. Everyone other than Calvin reluctantly agree to go explore this path. In no time, the party is reduced to crawling as they make it through a tight path. At the end of the tunnel, Erik steps out and is shot by multiple arrows.

Calvin disabled the trap and then runs forward to a large treasure chest. When he reaches the treasure chest, it moves and slams Calvin Ford to the ground. Erik is surprised to know that someone trapped the Silver Raven's treasure room and put a mimic here. The party dispatches the mimic to see that someone left a 1000 gold here still. Underneath the mimic, there was a note that said "Take that Silver Trash". Everyone leaves and walks down the that is second from the right. There is a long path that goes down fairly steep that continues for the next half hour.

A path to the right is visible and close to a broken door there is a lit torch. Everyone become silent as they hear a low pitch monstrous voice yelling. Eustace can hear the monster saying "Where are they? Gendrikanus said that they would be here.  Where are they?". Eustace was able see that this was no orc, but a minotaur that rummaging through papers and yelling. Calvin Ford was interested is he silently made his way into the room. The minotaur was distracted, but in time he did spot the people behind him. Rather than attacking them immediately, he demanded to know why they were here. Erik was unsure what to say, and said that everyone here were enemies of the orcs. It was at this point that the minotaur propped his axe for combat and charged Erik. After falling flat on his face, the minotaur and full of arrows, but not after nearly killing Erik with one swing.

Session 4: Seeing the Light
After defeating the minotaur, the people in the party find a map marked by the orcs. There are marks on this map on the path to Silverdale. Skulls were placed around the bridge and arrows to the west. It seemed clear where the orcs attacked and where they would go, but there was no guarantee. Erik said that it would be a good and see the drow. Calvin Ford remembered that Gisborn said the exact opposite. Calvin made mention of Gisborn's warnings when Erik assured him that Gisborn was the one that said that he should go to the drow to find more information. Despite the original warnings, Calvin became very curious to speak with the drow and insisted that the whole party agree with Erik's request.

Everyone continued down the path. Everyone taveled down the path for another half hour before they spot a well crafted arch. The doorway was a bit short, but after ducking through it the party moved forward until they reached another arch that is different. Unable to recognize the first arch, Eustace knew that the second one was crafted by the drow. Erik was nervous knowing that he has never dealt witih the drow by himeslf. After walking through the second arch, everyone there sees that there were orignally three paths, but two of them have caved in. As soon as the party enters, they see animals and smaller creatures running away from the room. Eustace spots and recognizes an ineffable horror. This monster looks like a cross between a bat, a human, and an ithilid. The creature is feasting on a phaerlon when it is spotted. After very short notice, everyone attacks this monster without warning. The creature died without much of an opportunity to fight back. The creature's feast attracted two others nearby. Soon, both monsters are dead and party continues forward.

Not much time after the horrors were defeated three drow walk forward and block the party's path. Leader of three is a woman holding two spiked chains. She was quick and to the point with her questions. She spotted the symbol of the Silver Ravens and asked why they were in the Underdark. Erik was nervous, he knew that he was not prepared to talk with them. The rest of the party was less intimidated and was willing to ask their questions. When the topic of the orcs came up, they started by saying much of the same information that Gisborn orignally gave out. After that, they spoke of a new group of orcs that came and liberated the old orcs from the ithilids. These orcs were cabable of killing the ithilids contorlling the ors. The drow had no idea where the orcs went, and had no interest in what they were going to do now. After recalling the corpse of the dead ithilid, Calvin asked about that corpse. Without much of a good answer, they most likely believed that the orcs came back for some reason.

Towards of the end of the conversation, the leader started grabbing her head in distress. Everyone else was confused until all three of the drow are held. One of the drow on the sides murmers that it is a ithilid psion. Calvin takes the leader in his arms and starts carrying her and moving to the exit of the Underdark. Both Erik and Rudolph follow suit. It doesn't take long for the ithilid to speak. In a telepathic message, the ithilid tells the humans to leave the drow and they can escapce. The party continues to run away fast as they can before the drow regain their ability to move. When drow are free, all of them run as fast as they can away from the ithilid. The ithilid never runs and sends another message to everyone saying "I will see you back at your camp". Terrified, all three became extremely worried. The leader said told the party to leave, that they would deal with the problem. the side drow are nervous, contemplating the situation. Both know that their comrads will be killed if they wait. It does not take long for all three of the drow to run back towards the ithilid. Erik is very nervous and does not know how to act. Calvin Ford wants to save the drow to possibly make good relations with possible business partners. Eustace and Rudolph have no opinion on the matter as Eshkabel encourages everyone that it is time to leave. The drow said themselves that it was time to go, and that the party knows that they are no match for the monster. It takes several mintues to make the decision. While the deicision is being made, the drow are being slaughtered. It sounds like one of the three got away, and it that point the party decides to leave the cave without helping the drow. With none of the party good, there is no one with a truly guilty conscience.

While leaving everyone encounters a group of lurkers that are feasting on the phaerlons that feasted on the body of the dead ithilid above. These beasts were encountered and defeated without casualties. After defeating the lurkers, there was no confrontation in the underdark. When leaving the Underdark, everyone enjoyed their breath of fresh air as reached the surface. At the surface, there was a note with supplies from the Silver Ravens. Despite the fact that this was supposed to be a secret, Eustace's actions made the Silver Raven's aware of their actions. Chances are the Gisborn had these items sent here himself. It was night and the party went to sleep close (not too close) to the cave.

Mirtul 22nd
When the party woke up, they left back to Ordulin. The southern gate to the city was still unguarded. Soon, everyone realized that Albert Tillman would be back for a few days still. It took little time after everyone get back for Erik to say his farewells and go back to the Hall of the Silver Ravens. This was not a mission he would soon forget. Shortly after Erik left, Rudolph Kaizer got a message from the drow he met earlier. The drow said that needed to meet with him right now. Rudolph Kaizer was ready to leave immediately for the place specified when the rest of the party became curious. Calvin Ford especially was interested since he did not see Rudolph leave the first time. Rudolph mentioned that he was going to see a drow, and Calvin Ford became interested. Rudolph was reluctant to mention anymore, so he left to speak to the drow. During this meeting, the drow actually introduced himself and Mandrick Melphis, a spy working under Rubbin. He told Rudolph the names of some of the top Red Wizards to be worried about. He mentioned Merchant Council member, Rinald Boxworth. Melphis also mentioned Alinard Solkern, the leader of the operation to ally with Impultor. The last name mentioned was a special man with very little prior knowledge known about him. All that was known was that he worked directly under the Zulkier of Necromancy, just like Alinard. His name of Tillenbirg Keilrecht. Melphis told Rudolph to investigate them if he could, and to be very careful around all of them. Melphis was under order to give Rudolph some supplies and then leave.

When Rudolph came back, Calvin Ford was extremely to learn what was going on when suddenly Karma ran up to the party. His face was extremely nervous. This was the most on edge anyone has seen him. Karma asked if he could look in the two bags of holding he let Calvin Ford have. Karma was searching desperately to find his item. This action took the attention away from Rudolph Kaizer when everyone asked what was wrong. Karma lost a talisman that belonged to his boss. Karma was in a panic talking about this. He was sure that he would die if he could not find it. Karma was stumbling over his words and out of desperation, he offered the party 50,000 gold if they could find it. Calvin Ford's eyes lit up and started asking questions. Karma knew that he was robbed by a woman called the Blue Orchid. She was a cat burgler who occasionally robs the rich and crooked. Karma was trying to track her, but lost track after he was robbed. After he was robbed, the talisman was gone. Since then, Karma has been looking around trying to gain all the knowledge he can on the Blue Orchid and retrace his steps in case he dropped it instead. When Karma gave the little information that he had, he ran off to continue his personal search.

What better way to find a thief then to ask a thief. Asking who seemed like the shady type, the party was able to find a building of the thieves guild. Rather than an organization, it seemed to be an inn/safe house for many thieves in Ordulin. The guards have been relaxed to outsiders, but the security inside Ordulin is considered the best in all Sembia. When the party reached the building that looked like the building they heard about they were curious how to approach it. In the time they spent around the door, only one person left. Eustace took a good look at this person and saw that they had a symbol of Shar on them. Chances are that this was the right place. Calvin Ford realized that this was a bad place to bring money and became very nervous. Eshkabel urged that Rudolph Kaizer enter. Eustace was willing to go, but Calvin and Ehskabel told him that the Califomme name might make him too recognizable. Rudolph Kaizer went to the door and knocked. Someone opened up the peep hole and asked for the password. Rudolph had no idea about a password and stood there in silence as the man at the front door became irritated and impatient. After a few seconds, he closed the peep hole.

Calvin Ford realized what needed to be done to find the password. Calvin Ford would go with Eshkabel to buy a scroll of clairaudience. With this spell an invisible sensor can be made to hear when the next person knocks on the door and says the right password to enter. Calvin Ford needed to make sure that he could cast the scroll with no error.

The spell was cast successfully. During the duration of the spell, there was only one person that entered the building. A person in robes approached the door when the man at the peephole asked for the password. When asked, the man in robes said "I would like some cilantro with a side of pickled plums." The man behind the peephole then said "How would you like it?" The man in robes said "I would like it rare." Soon after that door opened and the man came in. He noticed that the door had a spell and dispelled the door. Despite the fact that the door was dispelled, the party got the information they needed, and Rudolph Kaizer recorded the information.

Since Rudolph Kaizer recorded the information, the party suggested that he enters the thief's guild. Rudolph Kaizer knocked on the door, and he became tongue tied. Even though Rudolph recorded the password he did get it wrong twice before he entered. The man behind the peephole became very familiar with Rudolph Kaizer, but he was still let in after getting the password correct. When Rudolph Kaizer entered the building he saw a bar connected with an upstairs. The thief's guild is not the base for a single group of thieves, but rather a hideout for all thieves in Ordulin. When looking inside the building, Rudolph can see that this building is crawling with activity. There are meetings and conversation happening all around him. People are constantly moving up and down stairs relaying secret information. In the thief's guild, Rudolph saw people in the Devil's Laugh, people with robes and people with noticeable religious symbols. Rudolph's gut told him to trust the bar tender. While talking with the bar tender he mentioned the Blue Orchid. After mentioning that name, the bar tender had nothing good to say. Rudolph asked question like, who is she, and who does she target? Vague questions were asked, so vague answers were given. It was clear that the bar tender did not know too much about the Blue Orchid. What Rudolph Kaizer did learn was that she was a woman, either an elf or a half elf. She wears navy blue from head to toe and she commonly steals from the north and center of the city. She is extremely hard to track and she never speaks. The amount of information that the bar tender knew was barely fit to be rumors.

Rudolph left the thief's guild content with his answers as he walked back to the party. When he came back, Calvin Ford asked several specific answers and Rudolph was unable to answer any of them. Rudolph said all the information he got from the bar tender, but no one else was really convinced that that was all the information they could get from the guild. At this point Calvin decides that it is better for the party to split up and find information. Calvin Ford and Eshkabel will search in the north and the center to see if they can find more valuable information. Eustace and Rudolph reluctantly went back to the thief's guild to see if they can get more information.


 * Eshkabel and Calvin Ford asked a guard first about the Blue Orchid. The guard told Calvin and Eshkabel that the Blue Orchid seems to target the rich and and the crooked.  Some time ago, there have been thieves captured that had some reliable information on the Blue Orchid.  People in the merchant council have been targeted, specifically Rinald Boxworth.  Those that got robbed lost valuables to important documents.  The guard gave a good amount of information based on what is known about the rich victims.  Obviously, he cannot give the input found by the thieves that have been robbed.

After talking with the guard, Calvin and Eshkabel looked to find information on the streets. Both of them were able to find a merchant who was very well informed. He spoke of the Blue Orchid as a trust buster. She would act to stop meetings conducted by the corrupt parties. When Calvin asked who supports the Blue Orchid and who hates the Blue Orchid, Calvin heard that her actions were treated as support from the Blue Wizards against the Red Wizards. She is hated by the Red Wizards and those in the Devil's Laugh.

After hearing about the Red Wizards, Calvin Ford had two places to go to see if he can get any information from the Red Wizards. When given a choice between the wizards in the private enclave and the house of Merchant Council member Rinald Boxworth, Calvin Ford decided that it would be better to look in the enclave. When Calvin and Eshkabel found the enclave, there were two Red Wizards guarding the entrance. Calvin asked about the Blue Orchid. One of the wizards talk, but he had nothing informative to say. It was clear that the Red Wizards thought of the Blue Orchid as nothing more than a meaningless thief. Calvin Ford with all of his persistence kept asking questions to see if they really knew nothing.

At that moment there was an imposing figure walking by, and the Red Wizards guarding the entrance lost their breath and became very worried. they nervously referred to this man by the name of Tillenbirg Keilrecht. This man was yelling at the wizards wondering where Rinald was. They had no good answers, so he marched off. Recognizing the two he saw at the entrance of the enclave he walked into the two of them on purpose. Calvin Ford responded with a seemingly sarcastic "Good Day". The man turned around and took a good look at the two of them. At that point, he cast a spell to detect Calvin Ford's thoughts. Eshkabel could tell that this man was extremely dangerous, but Calvin Ford was interested to see what would happen. He spoke and asked if either of you two knew where Eustace Califomme is. Calvin Ford gave an honest, but a sarcastic answer again. The man sneered, and the Red Wizards at the gate were terrified that a conflict would break out. The man gave a warning and then left.


 * Eustace and Rudolph went back to the thief's guild to see if they could get more answers. When the two of them found the building, both Eustace and Rudolph were a big tongue tied.  It took several tries for the both of them to get the password right even though it was right in front of them.  In time, the two of them were both let in.

When the two of them entered, it was much the same as it was before. Both Eustace and Rudolph went to the bar and had a drink. Eustace looked around, and with Rudolph's help they were able to identify people from the Devil's Laugh. Rudolph did vaguely remember that the bar tender did originally mention them. With short notice Eustace approached a corner where four people with the symbol of the Devil's Laugh were located. When Eustace got close, all four of them stood up and stared at Eustace. The person at the center was a drow and talked on behalf of the other members there. He had a high pitch voice and seemed to have an uncontrollable laugh or cackle that would occur in the middle of some of his sentences. He asked what Eustace had to offer, why he was there. Eustace said that he wanted to help deal with the Blue Orchid. The drow started laughing almost uncontrollably. The drow was curious why he should trust Eustace at all. Eustace was using his diplomatic skills to gain the advantage when the drow asked for his name. Eustace slipped up and thought that he could deceive the drow and said that his name was "Teirum Prutt". The drow was not amused and quickly lost any trust he had for Eustace and was becoming angry. At that point Rudolph Kaizer became aware of what was going on and acted to help Eustace. With no patience, the drow asked who Rudolph was. Rudolph gave his full name and the angry face the drow had turned into shock. He said "Rudolph Kaizer, the brother of Rubbin Kaizer?!" Rudolph said that Rubbin was his brother. At that point, the drow drew his sword and pointed it at Rudolph and called him a traitor to the Devil's Laugh. Before he could attack, people in the thief's guild stopped the fight that was going to break out. The people in the Devil's Laugh moved upstairs for the moment, but not before giving a long series of death threats to both Eustace and Rudolph. It was clear that this attempt to gain information was a bust.

At that moment Karma ran into the party again. He asked them what they learned about the Blue Orchid. once again giving out the same information, Karma agreed that it was exceedingly difficult to figure out any useful information about the Blue Orchid. He added that she is supposedly almost impossible to track and has only been spotted a few times on walls and ceilings. At that point he walks cautiously towards his wooden house that he has entered in the past.

When Karma enters, there is another voice that greets him. The first thing asked is if Karma secured the room and made sure that this conversation would be silent. Karma foolishly answered yes not really realizing that he did nothing of the sort. This voice is his boss and he asks for a report on the plan with the orcs. Karma gives a positive response. The voice is relieved and gives all sorts of negative news that he has had to deal with elsewhere. The death of one of he finest servants in the Thar has him in a foul mood when he realizes that Karma is not wearing the Talisman that he lent him. A somewhat anxious and relieved tone of voice because clearly enraged wondering how he could lose the one valuable thing that he lent him for his job. Throughout the duration of the verbal thrashing, the party hears that the item is worth over 300,000 gold. Karma is studdering and he tumbles over his words making excuses. Karma's boss gives him three days to find his artifact.

Karma leaves and he is very out of breath and relieved. He wonders if the party can elaborate on the information in greater detail at his place. While in Karma's shack the party mentioned everything that they learned and everything that happened. Karma was shocked to learn that everyone made enemies this quickly while searching for the Blue Orchid. While talking with Karma, the topic of Rudolph Kaizer's secrets came up again. Now, Rudolph Kaizer's secret life put everyone else in danger. Karma was very shocked to know that Rudolph was Rubbin's brother. Karma did not know the full story of the issue, but he had a good idea of what was going on. Calvin Ford was very interested to know what was going on, and Eshkabel was becoming infuriated. These secrets could get the party killed and Rudolph was still refusing to talk about his past. After a long interrogation, Rudolph was ablr to talk about his purpose here. The topic of Tillenbirg was also mentioned. Karma told the party that Tillenbirg was a high ranking Red Wizards send to Sembia to deal with the harsh diplomatic issues brought up by the war and after the distrust of the current Red Wizards as a result of the failure in the last major alliance between the two parties. Tillenbirg is a dangerous man who should not be approached ever, if given the choice. There was enough of a headache to go around with all the problems to talk about, Karma decided that it was good time to continue his search.

It was approaching night time, and Calvin Ford decided that he knew what he had to do. He took it on his own hands to find information in the thief's guild. Before he was content on going, he needed to deposit his money. Calvin Ford gathered all of his fortitude and went to the thief's guild alone. When Calvin knocked on the door, he was confronted by the same greeting as Rudolph and Eustace. Calvin quickly went inside the building. Calvin remembers the conversation with Karma and Rudolph and he is able to recognize the members of the Devil's Laugh easily.

Calvin Ford looks in the direction of the corner for the Devil's Laugh and sees two drow and a goliath sitting down at the table. He approaches the table cautiously but gains composure and speaks with the drow. The same drow that spoke with Eustace and Rudolph is the first one to talk with Calvin Ford and it is a mutual conversation until Calvin Ford makes it clear how much he knew. After talking with Karma and Rudolph Kaizer, Calvin Ford was very informed on the issue, and the drow was shocked. As soon as he mentioned Mephistopheles, the goliath as a noticeable frown and decided that they needed to talk in private. Calvin Ford was not foolish and knew that is was a trap. By calling Mephistopheles "Meme" he was able to continue the conversation in that location. The drow from earlier and the goliath were angered and shocked by Calvin Ford's tone and knowledge. The lead member there was a drow who was a bit more calm. He tried to get information out of Calvin Ford, but was unsuccessful. The drow, though more aware than the other two did not give Calvin Ford any information he didn't already know. After saying saying a stirring line "I don't care about your Meme, but if I don't get my shinnies there is no deal." The two members on the sides were ready to start a fight, but the member in the center was merely curious about his sources. How did this one human know so much?

Session 5: On the path to Discovery
Later that night, the party met and ate their meal at the Six Candles Inn. Calvin explained that the in the Devil's Laugh didn't really know anything that he hadn't already figured out. There was a consensus that there was no good information on the Blue Orchid available to the party. After the meal, the party split off for the night. Eshkabel found the piano and played his tune as both Rudolph and Calvin went in for the night. Eustace decided to walk back to his house.

On the trip back to his house, Eustace notices that there is someone following him. Without a word, Courage knows what Eustace wants done, and Courage unwillingly moves towards the human rogue. Once the rogue knows that he is spotted, he runs away from Courage. The Rogue is much slower and Courage reaches the rogue quickly. Through Courage, once Eustace realizes that the rogue is going back to the thief's guild; he decides to stop the chase. Eustace did not get a good enough look to see if there was any visible symbol. When Eustace was sure that no one else was following him, we continued back to his house without interruptions.

During the night, someone was trying to break into Rudolph Kaizer's room. After a slip up trying to pick the lock, the rogue scraped the pick against the metal in the lock, Rudolph woke up. In a rage, Rudolph picked up his axe and and started chasing the rogue immediately. The rogue had a noticeable head start, but Rudolph Kaizer never lost sight of him. Rudolph managed to corner him in an abandoned building close to the thief's guild. Rudolph blocked the exit when he interrogated the rogue. The rogue was nervous, but refused to answer and instead responded with warnings and threats. It took little time for the rogue to fight. Rudolph was actually losing the fight without most of his gear, but after one blow was landed on the rogue, he decided it was in his best interest to leave the fight. Rudolph Kaizer left back for his him after that incident. He realized that it was in best interest not to be in enemy territory while he is injured at night. The rest of the night was uneventful.

Mirtul 23rd

 * When Eshkabel woke up this morning, there was a note at the foot of his door. Eshkabel was confused and enraged to wonder what was going on.  After he woke up, he decided to go down to see what Calvin Ford and the others were going to do today.  As soon as Eshkabel leaves his door, he gets a sending asking him to when is the best time to talk.  Ehskabel responds immediately and goes back into his room.  There is a long in depth conversation as Eshkabel learns what he needs to do.


 * Eustace wakes up and before he he is ready to go back the Six Candles Inn, there is a knock on his door. When Eustace opens the door, he sees Duke Derekson a half evlen women holding him by the arm.  She introduces herself as Illera.  They were talking, and Duke Derekson brought her here for her own curiosity.  Duke Derekson mentioned her curiosity and influence in with a few members on the council and she was interested in seeing the estate of Lord Jonas Califomme.

Duke Derekson once again asked if Eustace found any information about Jonas's notes to develop the navy. Eustace had the same answer as last time. Duke Derekson talked heavily about lack of ability to find the gnomes that worked with Jonas. The people that worked with Jonas have actually avoided the Sembian government. the only reason they ever cooperated was because Jonas was a great and interesting man.

Once Duke Derekson was done, Illera started asking questions about his deeds and his research. Eustace was gracious to answer, but she mentioned if there was any physical evidence of his works. Were there any items or artifacts left over. Despite her witty charm, Eustace knew where this was going, he was no fool and his face changed to a frown when that happened. He declined pretty solidly, and she knew his expression, and tried to make amends.

At this point Duke Derekson said that it was time to go. Eustace made mention of his attack. Duke Derekson said that he was not responsible for the guard, but that he would mention the problem. The problem with the security is that there is a seemly disproportional amount of guards around Boxworth's house since he has been continuously robbed by the Blue Orchid. Both Duke Derekson and Illera left at that point. Eustace finished getting ready and left for the Six Candles Inn after that conversation.

Everyone gathered one at a time at the table to eat their breakfast. Calvin and Rudolph appeared at the same time and it was clear that Rudolph had been attacked. When they were there they talked about the events of Rudolph's attack. There there was no good way to tell who the attack was and what was the purpose of the attack, it seemed obvious to Calvin that it was a response of the Devil's Laugh.

At the table, the party was thinking of the best way to find the Blue Orchid. Both Calvin Ford and Eshkabel knew that Boxworth was the main target now. Eshkabel though of using Boxworth to get close to the Blue Orchid. If the party could work to assist Boxworth in guarding his estate, there was a good chance that they could capture the Blue Orchid. Calvin agreed with the plan and both of Eshakbel and Calvin Ford started to flesh out details. They decided what scrolls would need to be bought and what other supplies might be needed to do this.

Calvin Ford knew that there would be a problem if Rudolph Kaizer was spotted. Calvin knew that there was at least some form of collaboration between the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin and the Red Wizards of Thay. If Rudolph Kaizer was recognized, that would jeopardize their chances of success. It became an imperative to the party to make sure that Rudolph Kaizer would not be noticed. Eshkabel helped Rudolph Kaizer work in a new name and a new back story. Rudolph Kaizer became "Josh Graph" a butcher who was an orphan at the age of 5. He lived a hard life and chopped pigs at the Shackled Pig. Eshkabel drilled this knowledge into Rudolph's head until it became second nature. Combining that with a scroll of Glibness and a disguise kit, he was ready to enter Boxworth's house.

The party moved together to get all the supplies they needed to approach Boxworth's house. Calvin Ford and Eshkabel were on edge knowing that they may have made enemies with Tillenbirg. The four approached the house and when they found Boxworh's house, they found two guards at the front door. The guards asked them for their names and their business. Everyone answered and though none of their business there. One of the guards went inside to confirm if Boxworth was expecting someone. The guard let them in on behalf of Boxworth. Boxworth was in a sitting room and he asked the party what they wanted to help him with?

It did not take long for the party to mention the Blue Orchid, and Boxworth's expression changed entirely. He closed the door to the sitting room and asked them what they knew. The party gave their information. Boxworth was not very well informed, but he has a different approach to the actions of the Blue Orchid. Many of the people on the street see her as a hero among thieves, but Boxworth believes that she is more of a thief mercenary that works on a client basis. He uses very little evidence to back his claim. At this point he makes it imperative that he needs to know the names of the party if they will continue this conversation. Everyone gives their real names except Rudolph who came under disguise as Josh Graph. Boxworth has almost nothing to add. He states that the robberies are becoming more consistent and he gives a time frame, in which the robberies have all happened. Eshkabel and Calvin Ford pitch for their plan and ask if they can act as security for her next attack. Boxworth accepts their help easily. He states that is exceedingly difficult to gain security here.

Calvin asks him about the past robberies. What kinds of measures and security does this place already have? Boxworth said that he had the help of the guard since the second robbery and has some some Red Wizard support at the time of the third robbery, but the use of Red Wizards is at their discourse. The house has magical alarms. These alarms are silent so that it would be easier to catch her. These alarms are reset after every robbery, have been set everyday since the last robbery. These alarms are on both doors and on each of the windows inside the house. Boxworth states that she is capable of disabling this alarms. There is a slight look of intrigue and shock when Calvin Ford realizes that she is truly that capable.

Boxworth tells the party that they can do this as soon as today. If they want to guard his house they should be here at 8PM with everything they intend on using if they want to catch her. Boxworth states that he has a good idea what she will target next. He has papers on a deal, a deal he states is his personal prerogative. It will be the job of the party to catch her. By being near the papers, the party believes that she must make some kind of move to take the papers.

The party leaves his house and formulates a strategy to capture her. The artificers and the cleric put their heads together to find out which spells would work the best to capture her. Calvin and Eshkabel note that a rogue's will is weak, and that there must be a spell to make sure that she becomes visible. Aside from that, the strategy is just to keep your eyes open for anything out of the ordinary. If the papers are stolen, they need to move. at the moment when any kind of move is made, that is when the party will act.

The party arrives at the door at 8PM. There are two different guards there this time. The guards ask for their names, and Calvin Ford introduces himself and company. The guard recognizes one of the names, and looks to see if the people match the description. The guards lets the party inside the building. Boxworth is waiting inside and invited the party up to his personal study. The study is a small room that has a window. There is a desk that holds the papers. Boxworth states that a man will come in an hour to recast the alarms on his house. Everyone waits, and besides the occasional visit from Boxworth to confirm that everything is alright. The person in robes is shows up and he is wearing lightly colored robes. No one in the party gets a good look at him besides when he walked towards the house and out of the house. The party waits the whole night without any action.

Mirtul 24th
In the morning, the party leaves the house fatigued. Everyone except Calvin goes to sleep immediately. While Calvin Ford is walking to get back to the Six Candles Inn, he is spotted by Albert Tillman, who had just arrived in Ordulin. Albert Tillman is excited to see Calvin and got right to business. In no time the two of them are in Albert's office talking about the outcome of the last mission. Albert is informed about the orcs to the west. Albert nods and agrees that this confirms Gisborne's guess. Albert talks about the next mission. The coming mission is far more dangerous. Calvin Ford says that he has to wait since he is doing guard work. Albert Tillman asks a few questions about it, but Calvin Ford answers the questions without revealing his client or his motive. Albert gives Calvin Ford his payment for the mission and asks him to tell the others that their payment is in. Calvin Ford leaves and quickly goes back to the inn to sleep.

At around four o'clock, everyone else wakes up, and Calvin tells the other three about Albert Tillman. At that point, the three of them go see Albert. Albert Tillman pays the other three before telling them about the next mission. Albert Tillman talks about the mission in more detail. He plans on investigating the orcs at their base. The people in his movement are interested in knowing what makes the orcs function. He wants the party to go, but he decides to join you on this mission. Albert Tillman is worried that this mission is more dangerous than the other missions, and he feels compelled to go with the party to lets them know that he expects everyone to leave this mission alive.

Albert Tillman then addresses a distressing message he received during the day. Albert Tillman knows the truth about Rudolph Kaizer add he's very surprised and somewhat disappointed. However, Albert believes that Rudolph did these missions because he is trustworthy. Albert Tillman gets back to work after saying that he would like to see everyone at eight, the next morning, for the coming mission. The rest of the party makes it clear that they all had the same guarding job as Calvin Ford. They then leave Albert to catch up on his work.

The party arrives at Boxworth's house again at eight pm. The same two guards that greeted the two the day before greet the party and let them inside. Boxworth greets the party and assures them that the caster had already set the alarms, and that he would be guarding outside from the sidelines trying to find her before she enters the house. The party moves back into the same room and begins their second watch.

Nothing eventful happens for over five hours. Boxworth checks on the party from time to time to see if anything had happened. Not very unhappy, he was almost ready to go to sleep when the wizard in the white robes walked back to the house. he started to wave his hands. Eustace quickly realized that this man was bewitched. Before he could undo the alarms, Boxworth reached the floor and shot him with a scorching ray. The man stopped and they both entered the house. Boxworth ran into the room and told everyone to be careful. There is a good chance that the Blue Orchid is in the house as he spoke. Everyone was on their toes when the wizard walked into the room. He was warning people about the Blue Orchid as well before he suggested the party split up to look around the house. Everyone was suspicious of hi s motives when Eustace realized that he was still bewitched. The party prepared to subdue him as he engaged them in combat. Calvin Ford had a strong suspicion that he was a diversion for her real chance. He grabbed the papers at the start of the battle to make sure that she couldn't steal the papers in the chaos of battle. Before the wizard could mount an attack, he was slain by Rudolph Kaizer who was disguised as Josh Graph.

Boxworth came back and he was still on his toes about the Blue Orchid. He assured the party that the death of this man would be blamed on the Blue Orchid. This recorded murder would be a stretch of truth to ruin her non lethal record as a criminal. The party stood up the rest of the night in anticipation that she would make her move.

Mirtul 25th
Seven in the morning and she never showed up. Boxworth woke up and told the party that they could leave. Disappointed that they could not catch the Blue Orchid, they proceeded to meet Albert Tillman for their next mission.

The party knocked on Duke Derekson's door and met with Albert Tillman. He was excited, but the four adventurers were very tired and worn out. Albert talked about the danger of the mission again and said that this payment would be up front. Four thousand gold worth of gems and platinum was handed to everyone in his party.

The party made it clear that they needed to rest. Albert was planning on taking the same route as the traveling caravan up until the bridge. This gave the party enough time to rest after staying up last night. Albert gave the party an hour to prepare themselves for this mission.

In that hour, the party bought equipment and met with Albert at the North Gate. He was waiting with a caravan. The caravan had no cargo; it was merely meant to give the people in the party time to sleep. Moments later, they were off. Most of the party took a nap and made sure they could sleep that night. Eustace spent the day working on improvements for Courage.

Mirtul 26th
It did not take long to cross the bridge in the beginning of the next day. Albert Tillman took a sharp left turn as soon as he got off the bridge. There was no formal road, but there were still tracks along the path they took.

In about an hour, the caravan entered the forest. Shortly after, Eustace and Calvin heard something. Albert did not stop. However, in another minute, everyone heard the sound of screaming. Two men and two women, all of them looked like commoners, ran to the caravan and told the party to run away. Their village had been overrun by a bunch of ugly little monsters. These creatures were barely human looking with grotesque growths on their bodies. When these creatures caught up, Eustace was able to identify them as dretches, a kind of demon.

The battle was long, but the demons were defeated. Afterwards the party took a break to regroup before continuing onward.

Session 6: Uncovering the Truth
After the break, the party decided that they needed to know what to do with the commoners. Calvin Ford and Eshkabel questioned the two male commoners, but to no avail. The commoners told them that they were hunters from Silverdale. The commoners did not look like hunters and they did not have hunting gear. It also seemed odd that hunters would be this far south from Silverdale. These people were closer to Ordulin than Silverdale. Ehskabel grew impatient and demanded that the two of them spoke the truth. Both very intimidated, they spoke the truth. Both the commoners were taken from their homes in Silverdale by demons. Succubi loured them out and they have been held captive for days. There were others, but they were already drained.

Unsure what to do after they commoners spoke the truth, Eshkabel fired a Sound Burst at the caravan where the two female commoners were. The prepared themselves as a Succubus left the caravan. Rudolph Kaizer took one mighty swing and cleaved the Succubus in two. The other Succubus was stunned, but saw the other one get chopped in half. Before anyone could find the other succubus, it teleported away.

The commoners stood in the caravan alone as the party moved forward without them. Albert scouted ahead as everyone kept an eye out for the orc camps. In time, Albert was able to hear the movement of orcs in their camps. while approaching the camp silently, Albert stumbled over his own feet and yelled as he hit the ground. Though not proven, Albert most likely compromised the fact and the location of any intruders going towards the orc camps. It took very little time for the party to be surrounded by orcs.

The battle started and it was a long and arduous battle. Despite the odds, the party was winning the battle. The chief in the back kept telling the party to give up, but no one saw captivity as a viable option. Once the battle turned in the interest of the party, the head orc blew from his horn to call for reinforcements.

The party tried to stall for their next attack. The orc was confused and repeatedly asked why they fought the orcs when they came to take the caravan. There were a few vague references to a deal they made. Eshkabel raised a few dead orcs and the party ran away. The reinforcements came and and dispatched the zombies orcs. Everyone left as quickly as they could from the scene.

Once the party reached the caravan, they ran as quickly as they could and back tracked across the bridge. They traveled back to Ordulin and stopped for the night a few hours travel back to Ordulin.

In the middle of the night, Calvin and Eshkabel heard a voice. The voice were asking for Eustace. Both Calvin and Eshkabel woke Eustace to see if he knew what was going on. The voice kept mentioning the master Kazama. Eustace was confused, he had no idea what was going on. During this time, Eshkabel woke Rudolph up while Calvin infused his ax with several infusions.

The ghost became impatient and decided that Eustace would be forced into becoming a sacrifice. The ghost manifested itself on the material plane, and no sooner after the ghost appeared, Rudolph took one massive swing and defeated the ghost. The distraction was over, and the others went back to sleep.

Mirtul 27th
Everyone arrived in Ordulin early in the day. At this time, the commoners were left in Ordulin. It did not take long for Albert Tillman to become weary of the situation. He invited the party to his house, which was a lavish house, but not quite to the extent of the estates for the members of the Merchant council. Albert expressed his concern for the situation. He knew that there was a deal and all of his suspicions were not confirmed, but it was only a matter of time. He knew who he had to talk to and he knew what he wanted to do. Patience was important now. Albert know that if he sent the party on back to back missions that suspicions would grow. As it is, he has gone to Daerlun far too often to talk to his brother. There is a good chance that people could see Albert as a traitor working with Cormyr. Albert told everyone in the party that he would reach them when he had a new mission.

The party was pretty sure that Karma would be dead, but they wanted to make sure, so they visited his shack close to the Northern Gate. After knocking on his door, they saw that Karma was very much alive. Karma attributed his life to the fact that his boss needed him for his signature for the plan with the orcs. Since Karma had his signature there, he was the spokes person for that mission. He seemed very relieved in comparison to before. He told the party that his boss relayed the same job and the same payment if they could find the artifact. Eshkabel asked him if he learned anything new about the Blue Orchid, and Karma learned nothing new since they left. The party left quickly and separated for the next eleven days to work on their own projects.

Mirtul 27th- Kythorn 7th

 * Kythorn 2nd, Calvin Ford was working on a wand of fireball when there was a knock on his door. Calvin was intrigued, but he was not going to open the door to a stranger.  He man said that he was Boxworth from the Merchant Council.  It was his voice, but it seemed extremely fishy.  Why would Boxworth come to an inn, and how did he even know where Calvin Ford was staying?  Calvin Ford opened the door expecting it to be a trap.  He say a man that looked nothing like Boxworth.  The man walked in and removed a magical disuise to show that it was indeed Rinald Boxworth.

Boxworth was very frightened and he needed help. He remembered that Calvin helped him before when they were trying to guard him from the Blue Orchid. Boxworth states that even though he was robbed on the second night that the party offered him better protection than the Red Wizards. Boxworth said that he needed body guard.

Calvin Ford was not willing to help him right away, but he said that he would think about it. Boxworth said that Calvin Ford and his party can meet him in his house in case he decides to help.


 * Kythorn 5th, Eshkabel got a message from a familiar name asking if he could meet him in the temple of Waukeem. Eshkabel was interested and left his the Six Candles and his leisurely days playing music to see what was going on.  Eshkabel remembered an earlier and decided to be careful.  Lannister greeted him and they moved a more secluded place.  Lannister moved behind the temple and spoke quietly.  When the manifesto became a topic, Eshkabel lost all sense of location and spoke very loudly.  Lannister told him that the book had been taken after the battle at the Citadel of the Raven by followers of Loviatar who hoped to weaken the sides participating in the battle.  Eshkabel stood there in fury, but was intrigued to know how he could retrieve the book. Lannister offered wanted nothing more than Eshkabel to go to Searloon.


 * Kythorn 6th, Eustace was working on improving his humunculus when there was a knock on the door. It was late in the day, but Eustace answered the door. There were three people in black in front of him.  the person in the middle appeared to be a half elf with red eyes and pale skin.  One of the two on the side as a half elf, and the other was a human.  The man in the middle spoke with a deep tone and asked if he could talk with Eustace.  Eustace did not trust him, but he could not tell if anything was going to happen.

The man introduced himself as Millikin. He referred to himself as the mediating force between Eustace and Rudolp Kaizer and the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin. Hired to work on behalf of the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin, Millikin says that he has no interested in dealing with Rudolph or anyone in his party. Millikin states that he went to Eustace since he has not been able to find Rudolph Kaizer since the Devil's Laugh attacked his room.

Millikin said that Rubbin Kaizer was a truly horrible man. He sent his brother on a suicide mission on behalf of the Devil's Laugh in Searloon and the Devil's Laugh outside of Sembia. Eustace heard all the same information that Calvin got before from Karma about the Devil's laugh as well as inside information from the perspective of the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin.

Millikin told Eustace that the change had something to do with the disappearance of Lolth years ago. The dissent in the Devil's Laugh became noticed in Sembia when many of its members were drow and did not worship Mask. Those that worshiped Lolth became faithless. One drow that was previously worked with the D'Urbans had split as a heretic and joined the Devil's Laugh as a worshiper of Mephistopheles. Zalnulphir is said to be working with Drelenore, the human in charge of the Devil's Laugh in Sembia to make a more literal interpretation of the name.

Rudolph's brother Rubbin is working with the current leader, a chaos gnome that worked with the old leader S'ilan Trelane until his death. Rubbin sent Rudolph because he was not a member of the Devil's Laugh and he hopped that Rudolph would not be spotted as easily. Zalnulphir has found an ally with Tillenbirg since he is a vocal worshiper of Mephistopheles. One of his most notable deeds was trying to bring Mephistopheles to the material plane 50 years ago. His forces were defeated by Jonas Califomme and his party. Tillenbirg allied himself with the Devil's Laugh to gain a stronger leg of support in case people try to stop him again. His purpose in Sembia is based on the silence of the two other high ranking Red Wizards.

All Millikin wanted from Eustace was for the party to stay away from Rubbin Kaizer. He has no interest of his older brother and he was just using him for the benefit of the organization.

Kythorn 8th
Shortly after everyone woke up, the party met at the Six Candles Inn, as they tend to do every other day. Albert Tillman stumbles in and greets the party. He has a new mission, and a good amount of information to deliver.

Albert Tillman basically states that the last mission served as proof of the accusations brought by the revolutionary movement. It seems clear that Sembia had a part in orcs attacking the caravan. Albert knows far more than that now. Albert has been doing business investments with Karma as well. He has also heard about the deals he has made with his boss. After talking with Karma, he was able to obtain information from Karma after a threat of being exposed for his smuggling operations in the west. Karma hired people to work for him in the west so that he could remain in Ordulin, and still conduct his business. Albert is not intimidating to anyone, but Karma has many skeletons in his closet.

Albert went to him when he mentioned a deal with the orcs and a signature. Karma said the deal was a five part agreement between, the Cormyrian government, the Sembian government, Karma, the orcs, a cult. The agreement promised the cult stay in Sembia in Saerloon if they helped the orcs and promised to give riches to the Sembian government. The orcs and Cormyr had no resistance in stopping Sembian trade between Silverdale and any of the other cities.

Karma's involvement was through his boss. He signed for his boss, and he is connected with the cult. Albert asked to know who the Sembians were, but Karma did not know. Karma did mention the name of the person from Cormyr. Karma did tell him that the man from Cormyr signed his name as Olmrave. Albert knew that he heard that name before from his brother. The next mission involve a trip to Suzail in Cormyr. Albert was hesitant to mention a time. He knew that taking Sembians to Suzail could be disastrous, and that this could make him look like a traitor in Sembia and make his brother look like a traitor in Cormyr. Albert was desperate for support and said that he would pour his entire trust fund into the payment for this mission. Calvin Ford didn't have the will to deny an offer for that much money. Calvin Ford accepted, and everyone else did afterwards. Albert still needed to sort out details. He knew that his actions were becoming suspicious.

After the party left Albert's house, Calvin Ford talked about his visit from Rinald Boxworth. This was an opportunity to get a better idea of what he really needed. Rudolph went back in disguise and they went Boxworth's house. It had the same guards, and Calvin Ford introduced himself and they were let in.

Boxworth came down from upstairs and he looked as nervous as ever. He was delighted to see that Calvin Ford agreed to go there. He told the party that he was supposed to be a free vote on the "yes" side for the new allies bill going through the council. Boxworth voted against the bill and there are many sides opposing him for his decision. The new head of the Red Wizards in Sembia, Tillernbirg wanted him to vote on the pro side, while his two other superiors, Solkern and DuCain told him not to. Boxworth voted against it, and it looks like the vote will be 12 to 10 against the bill.

Boxworth is very afraid that his life is in danger. Markaedus Callahan, the member that proposed the bill is a very dangerous man to have against you in the council. Callahan depended on Boxworth to be in his side, and now Boxworth fears that he will try to kill him. Callahan's methods and rise to power are a result of consultation between him and the countess Mirabeta. He heard that for his supposed attacks, that he would use Shaarans. Countess Mirabeta was a devout Shar worshiper and this would be the cheapest and most effective way to gain force for an assassination and use people that legally have a stay in Sembia.

Boxworth is interested in knowing if he needs to be protected from Callahan. More than anyone else, he suspects the Shaarans in Saerloon, but he has several suspicions. He wants the party to go to Saerloon and see if they are after him, and protect him, if they are after him. Eshkabel was extremely cautious and did not want to get involved, but then Boxworth said that he would let them chose the price for this mission. Calvin Ford could not contain his greed and he eagerly accepted. Eshkabel and Eustace still tried to negotiate details. Boxworth's fear made him very easy to work with.

Session 7: The Path to the Secrets in Saerloon
Later the same day, the party decided on what they needed if they were going to Saerloon. Eustace made it clear that he was planning on working on his humunculi during the trip. This meant that the party needed to buy a carriage and horses for the trip. Calvin Ford wanted to get to Searloon as quickly as possible, so he decided that the party needed to invest some money on a map to see if the party could find shortcuts.

After buying the goods, the party returned to Boxworth after they decided on a price. Calvin Ford charged Boxwoth 2,500 gold for everyone up front and 2,500 when they returned with extra fees based on the difficulties of the experience. Calvin Ford also asked for 1,250 gold for expenses and communications(sending stones) during the trip. Boxworth told the party that there would be two people that would be able to help the party gather information. He mentioned that the leader of the city was the captain of the guard, a woman referred to as Lady Merelith. Boxworth found a note and imbued the note with tattoos. This action absolutely confirmed all rumors that Boxworth was a Red Wizard himself. He signed his name and said that they should take this to the Red Wizard enclave in Saerloon. Solkern, one Boxworth's superiors and the lead Red Wiazard in charge of the plan involving alliances with Impultor, should speak to the party if they hand the letter to the Red Wizards at the entrance of the enclave. Calvin Ford took the noted and Boxworth wished them luck.

Boxworth agreed to the prince and the party left. Everyone decided that they would leave the next morning for Saerloon. The party gathered at Eustace's house for the night. This was an opportunity for Eshkabel to work on his mission. While everone was asleep, he was looking around to see where the magical items were, but he realized that the house was well guarded. While returning to his room to sleep, he found Calvin Ford equally curious, but rather he was taking Jonas's pocket watch apart. Calvin Ford became very curious at Jonas's inventions that marveled the world with his genius.

Kythorn 9th-10th
The party gathered in Eustace's house and left that morning. They left Ordulin from the southern gate and moved down the main road the whole day. The day was not eventful at all. That night, Eshkabel spotted people in robes out in the distance. On impulse Eshkabel yelled for them to show themselves. The person that was spotted wanted to show that he was not an enemy and he bowed down showing Ehskabel that he was not an enemy. Ehskabel was confused and attacked the man bowing to him. He and others that were not spotted ran off when he was attacked. Before they left told Eshkabel that they were not his enemy. Calvin Ford was confused that these people knew about Eshkabel and wondered why they would follow him. Eshkabel's angry rants about being followed quelled Calvin's curiosity about the link between these people and Eshkabel.

The next day was no eventful either. Calvin Ford crossed the bridge and decided that it would be faster to go around Selgaunt rather than through it. The party found themselves leaving the main road for a straight path to Saerloon. Going on the main road, the party would need to travel through Mulshessen, and time was money. That night Calvin Ford and Eustace were at watch when they heard someone slip. Eustace could see them, and Calvin Ford knew even before he fell that he was coming. Despite being invisible at night, he was spotted and he prepared for battle. The first thing he did was try to shoot Eustace with an enervated scorching way. Both of the Esutace's Humunculi woke the rest of the party and prepared for battle. The wizard was defeated after striking a single massive blow on Rudolph Kaizer. It was clear after the battle that this person was a Red Wizard and that he deliberately aimed at Eustace before even looking at the other people in the party.

Kythorn 11th
After waking up, it took the party until the afternoon to make it to Saerloon. The guard situation in Saerloon was much the same as it was in Ordulin. There are guards at the gate, but they are not doing anything. As soon as the party enters the gates, Eshkabel suggests that they party splits up to gain more ground. Calvin Ford is weary, but there is a chance that the party will sleep in this city, and they need to find a place to hold the carriage and the horses. Eshkabel does that quickly and looks for the temple of Shar.

At the temple of Shar, Ehskabel finds an abandoned and dusty shrine to Cyric. By the shrine, he sees a familiar face. Lannister is there and surprised to see Eshkabel there. Lannister told Eshkabel that the meetings in Saerloon were coming to a close. He showed up just in time to get to speak to the leader of the Monks of the Dark Moon. Lannister made sure to warn Eshkabel about the powers he will meet. Ehskabel is ready to meet his destiny.

Lannister led Eshkabel through some doors to where three beings were having a conversation. One was a lich; one, a human with dark black hair; the third, kneeling, was a shade. They spoke of orders on behalf of the 'Champions of Loss.' Through this organization, the lich claimed to have authority over the shade: "I am not a tool of the Monks of the Dark Moon.  My orders come from our representatives in the Church of Shar specifically delegated from Prince Rivalen Tanthul". The lich says that Prince Rivalen is also a member of the Champions and understands that he has more pull than Rivalen in the organization. The shade seems greatly displeased. He has been longing for this kill and he makes one last argument to kill the halfling Lambert Burroughs and other followers of Lathander. Before the lich could retort, though, the man next to him answered: "I too understand the need to kill Shar's enemies.  Those who follow Lathander all deserve to die.  You may act as you were previously ordered." At that moment the man's hand glows blue purple and black. The lich reluctantly agrees to him and dismisses the shade.

At that point, the lich notices Eshkabel and addresses him as lord Ehskabel. Eshkabel is humble and almost stunned by the power of this lich. never in his life had he been in the presence of someone this power. Not even Vinnrick was this powerful. The lich introduced himself as Larloch, the leader of the Monks of the Dark Moon and a high ranking member in the Champions of Loss. Larloch asks if he needs to explain the situation to Eshkabel. Eshkabel admits that he has an idea what is going on, but he has not heard the truth in its entirety. Larloch tells Eshkabel about the Children of Woe and their history. He mentions that the Champions of Loss have been aware of Cyric's plan since before the Battle at the Citadel of the Raven.

The organization made sure to be close to Cyric to try and gain his favor. It has been Shar's goal to ally with Cyric since the Troubled Times, and this has been the aspiring mission of that organization since Cyric has been a god. When he died, it became important to learn who was a child, and there was no easy link besides trying to the areas where we believed the rituals happened to help form the children. Really, it was the awakening of their powers that lead to them being found. It is our belief that the one that becomes Cyric will have the memories that the children had during their lives. That makes it very important to chose the right child. It has been a goal to find the child who seemed the most likely to win the battle and become Cyric. The Shades believed that the most likely person would be Grahm Bakura Mandalax. Larloch himself even shuddered in the immense power that Grahm had. It has been the mission of the Champions of Loss in general to gain Grahm's favor. Truth be told, some believe that High Prince Telamont of the city of Shade has his own agenda, but that is second to Shar's orders to the champions.

The other man speaks, "Lord Eshkabel, it was difficult to find your file, but we made sure to look for you since the file we found said that you have spent time in Innarlith and that you were a defector for Cyric." He said that the organization must make up some ground for the mistakes the shades made. The shades allowed one of their tools, Confectus Tenabrae, to attack Grahm. This has set our relationship back a great amount. Because of this, Larloch and I are now the heads of the group dealing with Grahm. "We have been trying to follow Grahms strict demands to help patch up the mistakes of those stupid Shades." He mentions that the latest demands have been to find followers and find people that can turn people into followers. It seems that Grahm is already trying to prepare a large worshiping base in Faerun for when Cyric comes back. He tells Eshkabel, when talking to Grahm, you must take the utmost and be extremely careful. Grahm has not, and does not ever want to be referred to as a Child of Woe. Do not compare him to the rest of them. Never deny his words, or ask meaningless questions. He is impatient, and not afraid to kill on a whim.

On regard to Eshkabel's book. The man says that he knows what group of people have it. He specifically mentions of a group of deserters from the Legion of Light that worship Loviatar. He mentioned that he himself watched the battle from afar as an order from Shar. She anticipated Cyric's reaction and ordered the Champions of Loss to sit on the sidelines and see if their help could have turned the tide. It was at the point when it became a divine struggle when it became clear that there was nothing that the Champions could do to change the outcome. At the end of the battle the champions were ambushed by the deserters. Many of them were killed, but they outnumbered the Champions and forced them into retreat. It is commonly believed that they took valuables of the dead after the battle. The man says that they believe that it is one of these people that most likely have the book that you are looking for. These forces have been following the Monks of the Dark Moon trying to establish themselves where ever Shar is established. These specific groups of people seem to be the most active members in a group of Loviatar followers.

Larloch speaks again saying that all they need from Eshkabel is someone that will talk to Grahm and someone who will do his bidding. Grahm only really trusts Cyricites to do anything. Larloch tells Eshkabel that the people in the Church of Loviatar are his enemy also and that they will work to kill them and return anything that belonged to Cyric or his followers. Larloch became curious of Eshkabel's knowledge. He knows that all the children that are aware are gathering followers to their side. He asked Eshkabel if he had come in contact with any other members from the Children of Woe. Eshkabel did not want to mention Vinnrick here, but did not want to lie to the lich. He mentioned that he talked to someone by the name Vinnrick. Larloch became confused. That was the member they didn't know about. The other man mentioned that Grahm said that he heard about a man called Vinnrick who knew about him and the Children of Woe, but Grahm didn't know that he was a Child of Woe. They both learned a very important piece of information. Very little was said after that, and both sides paid their respects as Eshkabel left the temple.

The rest of the party wanted to go talk to Lady Merelith. Calvin Ford remembered that she was captain of the guard, so he went back to the guard to ask for directions. The guard gave directions to barracks for the guard in the center of the city between the two main market places. When the party was stopped at the door of the Barracks, Calvin Ford asked if he could meet with Lady Merelith. The guard said that people generally need appointments. Calvin Ford said that he was sent on behalf of Rinald Boxworth of the Sembian Merchant Council. The guard went in to ask to see if she was available at the time. The party was let in to see Lady Merelith. After passing through a long stream of hallways, they found their way to her office. The office itself wasn't impressive and she was sitting down doing paperwork in armor when they arrived.

Lady Merelith asked the party what their business was here. Calvin Ford spoke on behalf of the party when talking with Lady Merelith. He said that he left on behalf of Boxworth in the Merchant Council to see if the Shaarans were active in Saerloon. She was displeased to hear about the merchant council since the open borders law makes it illegal to regulate and keep track of the people that enter the city walls. She was relieved since Boxworth voted against it. She said that he has no idea where the Shaarans are going, but there has been actions and there movement out of city by Shaarans.

When talking, he brings up Meme. She is confused, and Calvin Ford mentions the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin. Lady Merelith knows about the conflict, but she does not have too much insight. She states that there are ships moving into Saerloon with their symbol of the Devil's Laugh. There is movement from out of Saerloon, most likely to Ordulin, but there seems to be almost no movement from Ordulin to Saerloon. She mentions that the leader in Saerloon, Rubbin Kaizer, has been is most likely calling people in to help with the dispute. Calvin ford does state there is some confusion since he was sent by Boxwroth, but attacked by a Red Wizard close to Saerloon. Lady Merelith sighs as she talks about the arrival of TIllenbirg. Since his arrival, the Red Wizards have been extremely active. Solkern is the leader of the Red Wizards in Saerloon, and has been since the actions in Impultor. Since those plans, he has been extremely passive, and that is most likely why Tillenbirg was sent to Sembia. If there was an overt assassination attempt, there is a good chance that Tillenbirg was probably involved.

The conversation sheds light on both sides, and towards the end, Calvin Ford introduces himself and she introduces herself. Both Eustace and Rudolph do the same. Eustace mentions his name, and Lady Merelith is gald to be in the presence of one of the great Califommes. Rudolph Kaizer is still in disguise, but he slips up and says his real name. Lady Merelith's face changes instantly and she stands up from her chair. She asked if there was any relation between Rudolph and Rubbin Kaizer. Rudolph says that they are brothers, but Rudolph has no interest in helping his brother. Lady Merelith basically arrests Rudolph Kaizer and says that he will help her bring Rubbin Kaizer down. No one else protests, but she says that she needs three hours to make a plan and organize her best guards in the city. Through her conversation, she believed that she could trust Rudolph, so she dismissed them for three hours.

Three hours later, Eshkabel met with the rest of the party and he was brought up to speed. The party went back to the barracks, and she was waiting for the party. Lady Merelith lead the group with the party with four of her finest guards. She took the party to the south eastern edge of the city close to the ports. During the spread of the Fire Knives, they made some small bases in some cities in Sembia. Merelith believed that that was location of Rubbin Kaizer. She wanted to use Rudolph Kaizer as bate to draw him out. Rudolph did mention that he did not favor Rubbin, but that Rubbin had no reason to suspect him. She sent Rudolph off to get Rubbin Kaizer.

He walked alone some distance and after Rudolph turned around the corner, he heard a voice. Rudolph could feel a hand on his shoulder and he knew that the person speaking was invisible. The voice introduced itself as Mandrick Melphis, the drow that spoke with Rudolph. He told Rudolph that Rubbin would like to see him now that he is back in Saerloon. Rudolph followed Mandrick into the building. Inside the building Mandrick open the floor boards and they both went to the basement. Rubbing was in the basement talking with other people when Rudolph showed up. When Rudolph was close, Rubbin dismissed the others.

Rubbin greeted Rudolph happily. He wanted to know what Rudolph learned while he was in Ordulin. Rudolph did not give a coherent answer. Rubbin was slightly annoyed, but he wanted to know why Rudolph didn't really learn anything. Rudolph acting in frustration mentioning how Rubbin had sent him to his death. Rubbin stated that he did no such thing. Rubbin invited Rudolph in here because there was an attempt on Rubbin's life. He wanted to gather information and he believed that Rudolph could do it without jeopardizing his own life at all. Rubbin never really wanted Rudolph to get hurt at all. Rubbin did ask if he knew if anyone wanted to kill him. Rudolph mentioned Merelith, the captain of the guard. Rubbin sneered knowing that she has been a thorn in his side for years now. Rubbin said that now is the time to put petty misunderstandings behind. Rubbin convinced Rudolph that they should attack the guard as brothers, like they once use to. They should stop the people who wish to kill family. Rudolph was confused. He did not want his brother to die now, but he didn't want the party to get hurt either. Rubbin said that no one in his group would attack anyone besides the guard unless they attacked first. Rubbin and Rudolph shook hands on that and mobilized a force to attack Lady Merelith and the guard.

Rubbin staged an ambush. Rudolph told Rubbin where she was hiding with the guard, and Rubbin knew an easy silent way to set a strong force there. On the roof tops, it would be easy to keep the advantage. Once in position Rubbin charged right for the heart of Lady Merelith. It was a gruesome battle on both sides. Lady Merelith nearly died, and most the combatants were injured. Throughout the battle, Rudolph would try to remind the Rubbin that they had a deal. The word deal did not resonate well with the party. It looked especially poor for Rudolph when his contact Mandrick was killed in the crossfire. Almost everyone on Rubbin's side died. Rubbin managed to escape while Rudolph was captured. Everyone was shocked during the battle to realize that Rudolph Kaizer had betrayed the party.

Lady Merelith and Eshkabel wanted no time for Rudolph to make his arguments, but Calvin Ford did not want him to die. He had an idea what Rudolph might be going through. Eustace looked at Rudolph and saw the confusion and pain. He just wanted everyone he cared about to live. Rudolph told Lady Merelith what happened when he talked with Rubbin. She was not impressed and not happy. She heard that it was fine for her to die as long as his friends went unharmed. She held her sword though. She cannot be emotionally tied to her job. She is a guard to bring justice to the city of Saerloon. Lady Merelith was going to imprison Rudolph until he is given a trial and then locked in prison for the rest of his life.

Calvin Ford and Eustace both wanted to make it clear what happened. Her anger turned into a stern expression. She no longer wanted revenge, but Rudolph Kaizer was partially responsible. He could have prevented this, but she knew that she forced Rudolph to do this. She was going to imprison him and prepare him to chase Rubbin. Calvin said that it would be best for him to go quickly so that Rubbin Kaizer might believe that he escaped the battle. Lady Merelith gave Rudolph Kaizer a chance to gain his freedom if he could catch Rubbin Kaizer. If he tried to leave the city or help Rubbin Kaizer again, then he would be executed.

Session 8: The Darkness of Saerloon and the Light at the End of the Storm
Rudolph Kaizer left to find his brother. Rudolph's first and only guess was to check where he met Rubbin before the attack. As soon as Rudolph knocked on the door, Rubbin let him inside the building. Rudolph Kaizer looked confused and angry. He did not know what to believe anymore. All he knew was that his only chance to survive was to capture Rubbin Kaizer.

Rubbin Kaizer learned what had happened to Rubbin Kaizer. After hearing about how the guard used him and how his party abandoned him at his weakest moment, he offered Rudolph Kaizer a place where he would always be welcome. The two brothers once again joined forces like they once did in their past.

Lady Merelith thanked the party for their support and left. She was livid; she really did not understand how she could be so easily fooled into an ambush. The guards thanked the party for their support and for saving Lady Merelith. Out of haste and loss, the guards did not dispose of the bodies or use them as evidence. The party took the spoils of looting the bodies of some high ranking soldiers for the Devil's Laugh.

That night, they were rich. They all enjoyed the fruits of their labor and lived it up. Throughout that night there was no mention or concern of their defected or possible dead teammate, Rudolph Kaizer. The party met at the Inn that Eshkabel found. The Blue Crow Inn was lavish is for adventurers. This place had a steady amount of refinery and adventure crawling within. Conversations were light. Aside from the sending that Calvin received from Boxworth, there was nothing of importance said. It was truly the perfect place to celebrate their newly found wealth. After their celebrations, the party headed in for the night.

Kythorn 12th
The party met to eat breakfast and discuss the events that would take place today. Boxworth sent a message early asking the party what they have learned from Solkern. While enjoying their breakfast, a man in travelers clothing with silver hair walked up to the party and asked about the Devil's Laugh. The party was not at all happy to get a rude wake up call from their peaceful morning.

The man introduced himself as Wein Buckler Mccloud. Calvin Ford was willing to work with Wein if he was willing to do business. Not long after Calvin Ford started talking with Wein, his three associated walked to the table. The first one to speak was a short and wide man dressed as a pirate with noticeable battle scares and a sailor's hat. His lack of tact and loud tone set the mood between Wein's friends and the party. Ehskabel was clearly insulted by this man's tone, and this reflected when he introduced himself as Jeff. A refined looking sailor with blond hair and someone else in travelers clothing arrived right behind Jeff. They introduced themselves as Jonathan and James.

Wein merely knew them as his friends, but they were a crew on a small vessel that were self sustained. Traveling on his family's personal vessel, he had spent his life searching for treasure on the high seas. Wein specifically said that his family had a vendetta against the Devil's Laugh and against the cult of Mephistopheles. The party was not ready to help Wein, but were not dismissing him.

Wein recalled a conversation he had when docked with a man who introduced himself as Gomand Pusk. Wein says that this man promised him free artifacts if he could bring more people to see him. Calvin Ford lost all sense of logic when the words "free artifacts" were mentioned. At that moment Calvin Ford and the rest of the party huddled in to talk about the proposal. Calvin realized that Wein was willing to pay the party to have them do something they were already planning on doing.

Eshkabel did not like being around Wein's friends and he insisted that they meet this Gomand Pusk. Wein traveled to the docks where he met him the first time. It did not take long before a shifty looking gnome walked in silently. He was practically shacking when he arrived and he often studdered his words. He was clearly insane, but he did promise free artifacts. Eustace knew he was no one to do business with. Calvin Ford was willing, but everyone became suspicious. When no one was willing to follow him, he began to get nervous and worried. No one really knew how to react to his tantrum when a someone else teleported behind Gomand Pusk. This was a female figure who resembled a drow but with more of a pale gray skin. She addressed Gomand Pusk as Third Regent. Gomand struggled against her and he was begging for people to help him. Ehskabel expressed his impatience towards the situation which resulted in Gomand Pusk casting a spell at him. She retaliated by forming a weapon out of force and knocking Gomand Pusk unconscious. She then proceeded to toss him in her cloak and then she teleported away.

After those events, most of the party stood there speechless. Calvin Ford was the first to speak mentioning that their payment just left. Wein told them that he in his friends are treasure hunters and have jewels. James remembered that they did not really have any jewels at the time. At this time, Jonathan and Eshkabel were ready to kill each other. James suggested that they leave to get the payment as Wein looks for his family with the party. Wein's friends had a great disgust for Ehskabel and did not see any good aside from Eustace. Wein agreed that he had no problem with James's proposal and agreed that they could leave on his boat while he searched for his brother and sister.

Calvin reminded the party of the sending and said that now would be a good time to speak with the Red Wizards. The party found the enclave just outside of Saerloon. When they approached the enclave, they were stopped by a Red Wizard. The card that Boxworth gave them was enough to let them in the enclave, but it was not enough to speak with Solkern in the enclave. The party was taken the center of the enclave where they met Solkern's new second in command after the death of Senten Zassif.

Thumara-sal looked displeased to see the note and then proceeded to tear in in half. In an angry tiff, he proceeded to insult Boxworth and say how he cannot delegate the time of Lord Solkern. When he calmed down, he proceeded to tell the party that he is capable of telling Boxworth what he needs to know. Thumara-sal told the party that Boxworth is clearly in danger. The Shaarans are most likely going to attack him. He said that he is expecting the Sharrans, the Cult of the Dragon, and the Devil's Laugh to try to assassinate him at some point. He told them that Boxworth had angered a large voting block/ committee. This block mainly represents the non-governmental organizations in Sembia. The head of the voting block, Markaedus Callahan, was the one that proposed the open borders legislature and the new allies legislature that Boxworth voted against. Thumara-sal did not know the details of the attacks, or even if they would happen, but he made it clear that it was extremely likely that one of the following parties if not all of them would be after his life.

His last piece of advice on behalf of Boxworth was that the party might find exact information in the Towers where the temple of Mystra is located. There are a few unlawful groups that have been working to destabilize a few of the organizations in Saerloon. They probably have better information than he does. Calvin and Eshkabel thanked him for his information and left the enclave.

The party got the information that Boxworth wanted, all they really need to do now is to take down Rubbin Kaizer and the Devil's Laugh in Saerloon. Calvin had no idea the base was, so he wanted to know if he could scry Rudolph Kaizer to see where the hideout was. After buying a scroll, they were able to scry Rudolph Kaizer and see that he was on a ship at docks. Wein identified that these were the docks at Searloon. Through Rudolph, they were able to see several people wearing the symbol of the Devil's Laugh, including Rubbin Kaizer. Calvin Ford was able to spot a metal casing for a ship next to the ship that ship. When they found Rubbin, Calvin ran to the barracks at the center of the city. The party followed him. Without any warning he told one of the guard at the gate that he found Rubbin. One guard was confused, but the other ran in immediately. In seconds, Merelith ran out and took a horn and blasted it as she ran towards the docks. The people in the party prepared for combat as they approached the docks. Calvin Ford was able to take the scrying surface with him when he realized that Rubbin's party had found him.

The party saw several drow, a halfling, Rubbin and Rudolph Kaizer as their enemies. In the beginning, the battle was evenly matches as most the combatants attacked immediately. Calvin Ford moved back preparing his attack as both sides volleyed spells and engaged in melee. When Rubbin's side was about to take the lead, Calvin Ford killed Rubbin Kaizer and a fiery acidic blast with several others. The halfling, clearly the leader of the people sent on the ship became filled fear and anger. Rudolph saw that he had nothing left to fight for and continued his attack on the guards. After Calvin Ford's blast, it was clear that Rubbin's side would lose.

The last person left alive was Rudolph Kaizer. When the battle was clearly lost, he dropped his weapon and surrendered. Everyone surrounded him and pointed their weapons at him. At this point, Eshkabel with an excited rage started throwing attack spells at Rudolph Kaizer. Calvin Ford held his action unless Rudolph picked his weapon back up. Rudolph knew his life was in danger and ran to pick up his ax and jump off the docks. Calvin Ford killed Rudolph the same way he killed Rubbin before he could jump off the docks.

Lady Merelith and the guards thanked the party for their support against Rubbin Kaizer and the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin. One of the clerics had speak with the dead and realized that Rubbin Kaizer had been preparing systematic attacks on Ordulin to kill Drenelore, the leader of the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin, Zalnulphir, Rinald Boxworth, Keilrecht Tillenbirg, and dismantle the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin. Zalnulphir is a female drow who became a worshiper of Mephistopheles in the brief time when Lolth became silent. The speak of the dead makes it clear that she is the one who is commonly believed to be responsible for the change of directions and possible bewitching Drenelith.

Rubbin was working with a group of revolutionaries that organized in the Temple of Mystra to help kill the Red Wizards and the Sharrans in Saerloon. The heads of the operations other than Rubbin himself were a halfling that he never identified and a half elf who only referred to as "Tal". The speak with the dead also helped the guards find the locations of the main bases for the Devil's Laugh in Saerloon. Wein's only hint to the location of his family was that the halfling did hear their names before.

The guards took the bodies of the halfling, Ruddin Kaizer, and the sword sages to see if they could identify anymore about the Devil's Laugh and as evidence of their death. Eustace took the bodies of the assassins and Rudolph Kaizer to make a golem. The day was done and it was time to celebrate.

Kythorn 13th
The morning was uneventful in the Blue Crew until they saw Karma and Albert enter the door. Wein is down first and receives a sending from Gomand Pusk. Gomand wanted to give Wein McCloud a talisman, and asked him to go the docks where they met last time. Wein left immediately and met with Gomand Pusk. This time he looked very composed and in control of himself. He gave Wein a simple looking coin and then left.

Albert was there to talk about the mission to Suzail. He told the party that he was actually told by Duke Derekson to go on this mission. Karma said that he was there specifically to talk with his boss just outside of Suzail. Albert noticed that Rudolph Kaizer was gone. Calvin Ford and Eshkabel explained the events that happened to Rudolph Kaizer. This is about the time that Wein returns. The trip to Suzail would be a seven day trip. Eustace asked for three days to work on his golem. At that time, Wein returned, and he introduced himself to Albert Tillman and vise versa.

Kythorn 14-15th
The only thing that happened during the three days was that Eustace got a sending from Thomas Smith asking about the hideout of Rubbin Kaizer. Eustace never talked to Thomas, but he talked to Millikin. Thomas knew that Rubbin was dead, and just wanted to know the hideout. Eustace did not disclose any information to him.

Kythorn 16-22nd
The party left for Daerlun and to Suzail. Albert Tillman said that he had business in Daerlun, but he told the party to skip the business and go straight for Suzail. During the trip, the party only heard someone in the distance. They saw a man that they saw at the inn before just behind them. Once the party got close to him, his attitude changed. He called out to Eustace and threatened his life. The man that talked to Eshkabel as Craig was actually an ancient spirit called Gururai that battle Jonas Califomme many years ago. This life was had a maniacal tone and was ready to fight. He sent his minions to fight Eustace and the party. Karma turned invisible in the beginning. Ghosts and monks with strange tattoos fought against the party. After a hard fought battle, the party was able to defeat Gururai's forces. Gururai swore on his revenge and left.

Kythorn 23rd
The party reached Suzail on the morning of the Kythorn the 23rd. The gates were heavily guarded and ready to take action. Albert Tillman told them that he was the brother of Magnus Tillman of the Purple Dragons. The guards questioned the party, but Albert referred to them as his bodyguards. The party was let in, and they walked to the Barracks of the Purple Dragons close to the Court Building near the center of Suzail. Albert Tillman showed the people guarding the building that he had a note from Magnus that allowed him to enter the building. The guards lead the party up stairs and across a nice hallway before they reached the large and decorated office of Magnus Tillman. As soon as the guards knocked he open the door and dismissed the guards and invited the party in his office.

As soon as the party got in his office he closed the doors and sat back in his chair. Magnus pressed a button and then frowned. He was angry that Albert would go to visit him in Suzail. Albert knew that Albert's behavior was suspicious, and that this could get both of them in trouble. He wanted to know why Albert was there. Albert knew that he was the best person to get a case from his brother. He told Magnus about the plan with the orcs. Magnus did not believe that this plan was real. Albert had Karma speak about the plan, and asked for Calvin's map of the region that he got from the Underdark. Using a humanitarian argument, Albert managed to convince Magnus that they should talk to Olmrick Olmrave. Albert knew that he would need authorization from a high ranking member to talk with another high ranking member. Magnus did not believe that Alusair Obarskyr would approve of these actions.

Magnus lead the party down the stairs and down more stairs in the basement. The party moved down a hallway where they found a room labeled "O.O". When Magnus knocked, someone in a low voice motioned them inward. The party saw a taller lean man with short dark hair writing documents. Magnus Tillman was direct when talking about the mission. Olmrick was careful with his words and clearly outwitted Magnus. Olmrick did say that the mission happened, he said that he was ordered to remain secret. Olmrick said that the person who ordered him was Sthavar, the leader of the Purple of Dragons. Albert recognized when Karma said that name. Magnus knew that he had caught Olmrick in a smuggling trade operation of unique items from Sembia. He heard a private conversation between Olmrick and a member of the Drgonmere Trading Company.

Olmrick was prepared to answer questions, often insulting Magnus Tillman for this questionable action. The first question was about the signatures from Sembia. Olmirck did not know who signed it. Olmrick basically said that the Cult of Eltab was working with the Orcs and to stratify the Sembian economy to make them accept their help without letting Sembia know that they were stratifying their economy. Cormyr's role and Sembia's role in the plan was to simply let things happen and make sure that there were no problems.

Calvin Ford felt that there is no way that he would accept a agreement with so little knowledge. Olmrick soundly said that though he did not know much, that he had guessed a good portion of what was being hidden from him. Asking more questions puts him under investigation and he preferred having information without people knowing that he has that information. Olmrick was curious about the dispute from Magnus. Olmrick said that there was no down side to the plan, that this could only help Cormyr. Calvin Ford mentioned the blockade against Chassenta, and Olmrick's face changed. Olmrick told Magnus that the plan was to involve no fighting. Olmrick spoke in a much lower tone as he was extremely intrigued that Calvin thought of that comment. The plan was not to just win the war, but destroy the Sembian Navy so that Unther and Thay would be destroyed by Chassenta. Olmrick spoke about supporting the forces against the eastern states. This plan would soon force Sembia to fight and put itself in bankruptcy. Olmrick was impressed and said that though he did not know who the people where that signed from Sembia, he had good reason to believe that one of them was Markaedus Callahan.

Olmrick originally said that Sembians who signed were out to gain money by using their political power to allow thieves to rob their country. Olmrick said that this was most likely a plan to steal money from Thay. Olmrick noticed that Sembia took a large loan from Thay at the beginning of the war to help pay for supplies. The Cult of Eltab hates the Red Wizards of Thay. They were probably invited so that their could be a conflict and the Red Wizards would die without being able to collect on their loan. Since Sembia would be bankrupt, there would be no chance to have the loan repaid unless Thay place themselves in Sembia to help them again. Olmrick said that Sembia probably never used the money they borrowed from Thay.

Albert Tillman and the rest of the party was content with the information and Magnus was about to leave when Olmrick charged over his table at Magnus Tillman. Mangus was deeply wounded and poisoned. The party and Karma watched in fear as they knew that Olmrick could get them all executed easily is he kills Magnus Tillman and refers to him as a traitor. Karma loses control of himself and his eyes change color. Wings appear on his back and he does something that is identified as the spell "destruction". Karma begins to transform into a large albino wolf monster with wings. Olmrick is trembling telling them to leave. Olmrick is afraid for his life, but he knows that if he is killed here, that no one will leave this place alive. Karma is mostly able to change back and the party leaves as quickly as possible.

Magnus Tillman is in shock. He cannot believe what his brother brought into this holy building. He dismisses his brother in disgrace, and tells him never to return to Suzail every again. The party accepts that and leaves before anything is discovered.

Session 10: Turmoil Surfaces in Ordulin
After spending a good portion of the day making sure that they are far from Suzail, the party was trying to make sure that no one followed them. Eustace and Karma were able to spot people in robes on either side of the carriage. These people soon approached the carriage slowly walking along side of it. There were six figures. Four of the figures had black robes and they were hiding their faces. One of them had black robes and looked pale and bald. Karma looked pale and worried when he looked at the last person. There was a half-elf with black and red robes, who looked happy to see the party, but occasionally giving Karma a harsh stare.

The first thing he did was go up to Karma and ask how the talk with Olmrick went. Karma told the truth about the actions and the man seemed displeased with the results. After mocking Karma, Calvin Ford became interested in knowing who he was. He originally did not want to give his name, but both Calvin and Eshkabel were persuasive, and the man did not want to seem imposing. He called himself Khaldun.

Calvin Ford was interested to know if he knew more about the plan with the orcs if he was Karma's boss. He told them that his purpose in the deal was to get close to the Cult of Eltab. Khaldun, talked about how this is a problem of history rather than politics. He believed that the party should not get involved with the Red Wizards and Eltab. Calvin Ford disagreed, knowing that this battle could happen within Sembia. Khaldun believed that the Red Wizards would know better than to allow such a battle in Ordulin if they really wanted to keep themselves in a good position.

He assured the party that the reason he was here was mainly for them. He knew that they had heard his conversation before, and it was only a time before they would seek the knowledge of the master mind of the their best source of the agreement. Calvin Ford wondered if Khaldun knew who the people that sign from Sembia were. He said that he was not actually there to sign the agreement, but there was a time when he could see the people that signed. He found it interesting, actually ironic that a paladin would sign an agree with fiends and orcs.

He said that though he does not know Sembian politics too well, he believes that this is a either Sembians selling out their own country, or a plan to get rid of the Red Wizards of Thay. It has been interesting to follow the actions of Tillenbirg as a result of the agreement. Thee is a good chance that someone in Sembia already knows that Cult of Eltab, and that this is shaping the actions of someone in the Red Wizards.

After giving adequate knowledge, he said that he had business in the Moonsea region. As he walked away, Calvin mentioned the artifact that Wein had on his person. Khaldun's ear propped and walked back at the mention of an artifact. Calvin told him about this coin, and Khaldun was interested. He wanted to know where is come from. When Wein uttered the name, Gomand Pusk, his eyes changed drastically for a second, but then reverted back to normal. Khlaldun referred to Gomand as Third Regent, and he all about him. He took gloves and asked to look at it. Despite faces from Calvin and Eshkabel at this request, Wein tossed it over to him. The other man in the black robes walked back to the party also. Khaldun analyzed the artifact and knew the schools, and heard about the artifact, but he did not know its exact powers. He tried to haggle the party for the partifact, raising his price from 50,000-100,000 gold for the item.

Calvin Ford did not want to give this item away without knowing what it did. He believed that it was worth far more than they would sell it for. Eshkael was hoping to get rid of it. He only knew that one bad thing that this artifact has done. The other man said that it should be field tested on commoners. As long as no one in the party is risked, there is no problem. He even offered the party to give a sending to him instead if they find out what the artifact does. Calvin Ford took to this approach far better, and though Eshkabel wanted to get rid of the item, he was more inclined to test it on a commoner, than on someone in the party.

Khaldun was not pleased with the results of that business transaction, but bid the party farewell again. His last message was to Karma. He told him to watch over Talaeos when he arrives in Ordulin. He is not sociable, and if he wants to make a good impression for the Cult of Eltab, Karma should give him a tour and educate him on the merchant council.

Hours later, Ehskabel was able to see far outside his reaches to notice Khaldun and the other man back and several figures far ahead. He described his abilities as divine, which sparked the topic of Ehskabel's religion once again. Calvin Ford became very interested, and so was Albert Tillman. Eshkabel lied to try and hide his identity, but both Eustace and Karma noticed that Ehskabel was lying. Karma used this an opportunity to get back at Eshkabel. Throughout the whole adventure together, Eshkabel was trashed on Karma's cowardice and his short sidedness. Karma was gleaming with joy to finally get him back. Karma made parallels between Eshkbel and Rudolph Kaizer, and tried to bring Eustace into the conversation since he knew that Eustace could tell that he was lying also. Eshkabel was arguing back, but he realized his party had an idea that he was hiding something and he knew that he would have to tell them at some point

Ehskabel said that he would tell the when they reached lodging in Daerlun. Karma was satisfied at the results, though Eshkabel made it clear that he had no intentions of letting Karma know. Karma got some of his revenge, but he was still extremely curious what kind of deity would make this big of an impact.

Kythorn 24-26th
As a result of Ehskabel's keen eyes, the group ahead ended up being two humans and a group of hobgoblins. One man was in dark colored armor and a cloak bearing the symbol of Loviatar on a horse and the other was in armor and robes also brandishing the symbol of Loviatar. The man introduced himself as Lieutenant Palosavich and the man next to him as Dashmen. Palosavich asked if the people in the party were allies of enemies of Cormyr. The party was thinking about the answer when Albert Tillman squeaked out that they were enemies of Cormyr. Palosavich said that they too are enemies and offered the party to join him and be a part of a new forming group called the Neo Zhentarim. He believed that there were enough members left to revive the organization, but they needed leadership. His first act as a lieutenant of the Neo Zhentarim is to destroy the home of Nassim Molrin, Thunderstone. He continued to yell out his ambitions to destroy Suzail and all the major cities within Cormyr.

Ehskabel was furious at this conversations and the requests of the actions to join the Zhentarim. As a cyricite at the battle, he hates both other sides and Calvin knew that there was no way to softly decline his offer. He demanded that the party join him or die. He jumped off his horse, and the party battled. The two members of the Neo Zhentarim escaped when the battle was not in their favor. The hobgoblins scattered after the leaders left.

Kythorn 27-29th
When the party reached Daerlun, Albert decided that the best inn was the Wild Wood Inn in the center of the city next to the temple of Sune. Albert's job was to get the plans for the weapon off a gnome that knew Jonas Califfome. To get all the information and his full trust, he would need to meet him three times before they got the information to make the dreadnought. Albert said that he was originally planning on going alone, but he thought that it would be good if Eustace came along with him. He knew he could trust the party, but he could not trust Karma. Calvin Ford decided to work on his projects for the first day.

At the temple of Sune, they saw an older gnome in glasses and robes. He introduced himself as MeLuis Rollenbrocket. He was one of the two gnomes that helped Jonas work on some of his finer adventures. He was able to recognize Eustace's face and was glad to see him again after so many years. Albert told him that Duke Derekson was a credible man and that they would make sure not to over use this weapon. This would be a weapon of deterrence and quick victories. Albert meant what he said, and MeLuis trusted him.

After handing Albert the papers, Eustace was curious about the actions of his father. He knew surprisingly little of his fathers adventures. MeLuis spoke of Jonas as a genius and a great man. Despite how great he was, Jonas was not a humble man. He did not mistreat people, but he thought he could do anything. He last mission was to create a human. He used some of the abilities he used to make a construct, but he did not want to use a soul. Jonas was morally against using souls. He wanted to create a soul himself. He learned about experiments done in the past as described in The Chronicles of Amn about procedures done by the Red Wizards of Thay and the Shades. Jonas was a man of incomparable genius who probably improved on previous designs. It was believed that he tried to emulate divine power to try to create a human soul. Though it was not known, it is believed that his creation killed him. Eustace was very happy to learn more information, but he knew he could think of more questions.

The next day started the same way. The only difference was that Calvin Ford was also interested in learning more about MeLuis. This time, MeLuis told the party that he is doing this because of his friend Jugondis Stockalbrock, the other gnome that worked with Jonas. He wants to make sure that everyone seems trust worthy over three days before the giving away the secrets to these military weapons. The first day, he got the information about the engine of the ship. The blue prints necessary to make the ship were given, but without weaponry. The artilleries and the guns were the second day's information.

Eustace wanted to know more about Jonas's party and his exploits. He was never really told about all the things that really made his father famous and why so many people wanted to kill him. MeLuis mentioned the fact that we was a truly charismatic genius that people merely loved to be around. It was inspiring, and he had the ability to bring practically anyone to his side. He developed most of his enemies in his adventuring period with his party. Jonas traveled with a wizard by the name of Dario Forgam, a cleric by the name of Komiartis Yyratam, and a barbarian who is referred to as Gom Unlaoh. They did many things as a party. They spent a good portion of the time in the east and in Kara Tur. Jonas was a regular nemesis for Manshoon before he died. He was an enemy of the Red Wizards of Thay, and he had attracted the attention to would be super villains were not quite strong enough to become arch villains for Elminster.

Before they left, Calvin wanted MeLuis to look at the artifact that Wein got from Gomand Pusk. MeLuis was not familiar with the name or the artifact, but he knew that it was powerful. He could not identify most of its abilities, but he had a good idea that this was an intelligent item that would possess the person using it. He believed that thus artifact is powered by the soul of an ancient evil. This item was dangerous, and probably should be disposed.

After MeLuis left, Calvin became interested about Eshkabel's religion again. Eshkabel wanted to do this in private, he was legitimately worried about saying this in the open. After gathering in his room in the Wild Wood Inn, he hold the truth about his religion. Albert Tillman was thrown back by the truth. Everyone knew that Cyric was not a god to be trusted. Eustace and Calvin Ford outwardly accepted his faith without a problem, but Wein and Albert took longer to accept his religion. Eshkabel assured them that he had acted with the party for a good length of time and that he had earned Albert's trust. Albert was not too hard to sway, but he would never look at Eshkabel the same way again.

The last day was a quicker conversation. MeLuis trusted the party and gave them the last piece on notes that he and Jonas had worked on before he died. These were notes for torpedoes and early blueprints for air plane. Albert took this notes and quickly gave the attention to Eustace. Eustace wanted to know more about the people that Jonas spent time with to gain more information from them. MeLuis said that Jonas was best friends with Dario and they often traveled together to different planes for discovery. Dario was not interested in most of Jonas's inventions, but was extremely interested in his last invention. MeLuis said that it would not be too hard to reach Dario, he lives in Waterdeep. It was clear that his sources were outdated. Eshkabel knew that Vinnrick had killed Dario, and MeLuis seemed to speak of Dario before the result of his trip to the Bloodmarshes after the battle at the Citadel of the Raven. Eustace listened to him and bid him farewell.

Albert and the party went back to the inn to find Karma and leave Daerlun.

Kythorn 30th- Flamerule 4th
The rest of the trip to Ordulin was not eventful. On the morning of the Flamerule 4th, the party arrived back in Ordulin. Karma leaps off immediately without a word of his actions. Albert leads the party to his house to thank them for everything. He gives the party money for the mission and says that there is nothing else for them to do for him. He believes that they have done all that they can for him. He thanks them and leads the party out the door.

It is at that time, that the party decides to look for Boxworth. When they reach his house, it is guarded by Silver Ravens. Calvin Ford introduces himself and the Silver Ravens say that he is expecting someone by that name. As soon as the party enters, Boxworth runs over to them. His house actually looks burt and damaged. Boxworth mentions that the robberies from the Blue Orchid have stopped recently, but that someone did try to burn his house down a few days ago. He also said that Drelenore Foxmantle of the Sembian Merchant Council has been assassinated within the last week. He is literally shacking from all the stress and fear of the situation. He knows that he has enemies from all sides now, and he will probably die. Calvin tells him that the mission was a success, but there were troubles. Boxworth notices that Josh Graph was not there,a wonders who this is, and what happened to Josh. Calvin says that there were many difficulties, but the Devil's Laugh in Saerloon are dead. Rubbin Kaizer of the Devil's Laugh was one of the parties who was planning on assassinating Boxworth. He is shocked to know the Rubbin Kaizer was out to assassinate him, and that he is dead.

Still afraid for his life, he takes out a list of merchant council members that he believes are most likely to try to assassinate him. He mentions Markaedus Callahan, Duke Derekson, Matthew Lansing, Capperella Altec, Toredale Swissenson, Tiroir Sosec, Jameson Moonshine, Janith Albright, Herald Daleheart. Boxworth starts becoming more fearful and moves towards the party and tries to give them a job to assassinate all these members. No one accepts this when he is reminded of his payment for the last mission. Calvin tells him what the difficulties amount to and Boxworth gets the funds. He admits that he does not have the ability to pay for missions like this very often. Calvin tells him that the party will kill people if they act out, but they are not assassins, and they will not kill the people he suspects. They will be investigated, and if they cause trouble, they will be dealt with. Boxworth asks the party to talk with everyone on the list, but especially Callahan. He does not know what good talking to Callahan will do, but he wants him to be investigated.

Calvin and Eshkabel both calm Boxworth down and assure him that they will act. In an attempt to be on better terms, Calvin does not mention a fee for a job for what the party is doing now. Everyone agrees that the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin is the next target. The party prepares for blood as they approach the thief's guild. Calvin says the password and he is allowed to enter. At the moment that the party enters, some of the same members from before are sitting down in the same corner. Calvin Ford and Eshkabel walk up to the table as soon as they approach, someone stops them. The first thing that Calvin Ford says is that Rubbin Kaizer is dead. The human who approached them seemed very caught off guard by the comment. Calvin Ford starts telling the people there that they are enemies, and he wants to speak to their leader. A drow from before spots Eustace, and remembers that he worked with Rudolph Kaizer. The people in the Devil's Laugh are confused and scared. They knew that Rubbin Kaizer was strong warrior and a great strategist and leader. One of them ran up stairs to call Zalnulphir down. A female drow in dark colored black and purple robes walked down the stairs. She had an almost blank stare when she saw the party.

She was confused about who these people were and why they acting this way. She tried to tell the party that there was no need to fight if Rubbin Kaizer was their enemy, but Calvin Ford made it clear that a fight was unavoidable. Wein knew this was his chance, so he asked about his siblings. She said that she knew about them in the south and they reacted to in incident when she had killed his parents with the original leader of the Devil's Laugh. Wein was angry, but he was also sad. Zalnulphir did not really care, and she seemed to be focused on something else at the moment. She agreed with the request of Calvin and walked outside the establishment. As soon as she stepped out, Calvin Ford attacked her with an Enervation. The battle started and though she nearly killed the whole party in an instant, she was quickly slain by Wein's sword and the combined effects of Calvin's and Eshkabel's magic. Her underlings around her lost their morale to fight. Only one stood for the interrogation. He basically said Zalnulphir was the one that assassinated Drelenore, and worked to help Tillenbirg revive Mephistopheles. Without her or Drelenore, there is not proper leader for the Devil's Laugh in Ordulin.

After ensuring that the Devil's Laugh would fall in Sembia, the party went to give Boxworth the good news. In a matter of mere moments, the party has returned killing another main figure of the organization. Boxworth was thrilled to learn that Zalnulphir was killed. He could barely believe that the party killed someone so high up so quickly. At this point, he believed that the party could do anything. He still saw Callahan as one of his greatest enemies, and he desperately wanted the party to check on him. Calvin Ford and Eshkabel agreed and they left to look for Callahan's.

The party was able to find his house fairly easily. While going to talk with Callahan, they notice a group of clerics all bearing the symbol of Lathander. These clerics are lead by a halfling that that greets the party before he turns his attention towards the door. He knocks and a large man in dark robes gets the door. Markaedus Callahan looks imposing to the clerics of Lathander when the halfling introduces himself. He greets Callahan as he introduces himself. Lambert Burroughs changes his tone slightly after he introduces himself asks if he can investigate the premises.

Callahan is thrown back by this comment. What authority does he have to do this? Lambert says that his authority is under the Morninglords, and that he has good reason to believe that Callahan has been working with the Monks of the Dark Moon in Saerloon. Lambert states that he is an authority among the Morninglords here, and a political figure in the north. Callahan is not impressed and states that he needs a warrant with the guard in this city to make an investigation. Lambert looks around on the street and says that his investigation of the gathering of Shaarans in Saerloon seems to be an agreement with the left over Cyricites and the Children of Woe. Callahan's face becomes ill and he gains his calm again. He promptly denies any actions involving Cyric and states that his connection with Shaarans mainly secular in nature. Lambert states that Callahan is a follower of Shar and represents a group of fanatical cults and organizations. Callahan smiles and says that he does follow Shar, but he is not a religious fanatic. Shar best represents his political and personal philosophy. The voting block is a group of people that legally reside in Sembia that produce income that did not have any power in policy before he created the committee.

Callahan states that he will oblige an investigation if he can get the proper paper work, but investigation under law is more important here than investigation for good. Lambert looks around and sees that he has done. He leaves quickly when Callahan talks to the the party. He invites everyone into his living room and opens up the shades. He sits down in one of his chairs and takes a cigar. The party did not really know where to start, so Calvin gets into a stirring political debate with the member of the merchant council. Throughout this conversation, it is clear Callahan is in favor with the things happening here. The topic of corruption bring Callahan to a stand still. Callahan takes pride in law over good and believes that any allies that follow the law are good allies. Calvin Ford takes the track record of the Devil's Laugh and the common use of mercenaries and assassinations as proof of the damage of this system.

Callahan stalls for the first time in the conversation and makes a comment that the use of assassinations the death of a government official is a sign of a weak government and a weak official. His voice cracks when he says this. He restates his point that revolution sometimes involves fixing the inept. He beings to sweat when he changes the subject to the party. He has had a good conversation, but he has little idea who they are. Callahan believes that the party under Duke Derekson, and he is interested in what brought this conversation. Callahan brought up his personal connection with Duke Derekson, and a sense of admiration for the countess Mirabeta. Calvin kept it towards Callahan and became curious about the events going on between the Orcs and Silverdale. Callahan gave the same explanation that he and Duke Derekson made in the council meeting almost two months ago.

Calvin Ford stated that that is not true. He said that there is not enough resistance to stop military action. Callahan stated that a chance of a ground conflict with much weaker forces was not really worth taking. Calvin told Callahan that the party had been to Silverdale and back. Callahan had no reaction for that. His face became nervous. He was proved wrong and he began to say that he will look into the change of the situation. It was clear that he was afraid of the direction, and he tried to make a reason to leave. Callahan get ready to leave, and lead the party out of his house. He followed them out and seemed to be walking towards Duke Derekson's house.

Calvin Ford realized what was going on and sent a quick message to Boxworth telling him to go to to go Albert Tillman's place. Calvin had learned a great deal about Callahan in this conversation. Eshkabel knew what needed to be done, and he uttered words to bring them to Albert Tillman's house. They acted in haste, but Albert was confused. At the moment that they arrived, there was a knock on Albert's door, and Calvin and Eshkabel urged Albert to come with them. Albert agreed when Eshkabel took out the pearl of power and used the spell to move to Boxworth's house. Eustace and Wein were told to move to Boxworth's house.

When everyone arrived, Calvin Ford and Eshkabel told the two what was going on. Calvin told him that Tillenbirg is once again using his resources for his own ambitions. Boxworth was thrilled to know this. Like before, if he is caught on these charges, that means that both Alinard Solkern and Willard DuCain can act against him. This is the first time the Boxworth has had a smile on his face. He is legitimately happy with this situation.

The party tells Albert Tillman that Duke Derekson is working with Callahan. They tell him that they are the most likely suspects to the meeting with the orcs. Olmrick, Karma's boss and even Callahan made it seem clear to their guilt. Albert Tillman is confused, and he does not know how to act. Calvin states that they do not have hard proof, but there is Karma. Eshkabel says that all you need to do is catch him. Albert took a back seat and decided that he would under the part now.

Session 11: Wolf Hunting and the Divine Call
After retrieving Albert Tillman and telling him the harsh truth, the party gathered their thoughts. Albert Tillman had no direction so the party needed to figure out the next course of action. Boxworth told the everyone that there is a good chance that they would be enemies of the state now. Duke Derekson has authority in the Silver Ravens. He can get a warrant for investigation of the party very easily.

Everyone realized that Karma was the key to proving Callahan's guilt. Albert originally mentioned capturing him, but after getting the supplies and buying the necessary items, they decided that it was not a good idea. Calvin decided that he would use an excuse get Karma alone. He remembered the weapon sales from along ago, but Calvin decided that he would merely talk to Karma instead of trying to capture him. The party still needed a way to make sure that they could get in contact with Karma.

Before the party left Boxworth was able to get in touch with someone so that he could speak with DuCain. It was only a matter of moments after he mentioned that there was a knock on Boxworth's door. A large balding man wearing a toupee walked in the door and introduced himself as Willard DuCain. Boxworth told him everything he learned from the party. DuCain had very little to say in response. He told Boxworth that he already had a suspicion that Eltab was arriving. He said that Tillenbirg already knew and that his actions are justified through his strategy. DuCain mentioned his obvious problems with Tillenbirg's strategy to let the demons into the Sembia.

The only thing that DuCain really said of value was Tillenbirg's strategy to deal with people. He made mention of a file report for officers and their traits. Because of the incident with Mephistopheles, there is a file transferred to all high ranking Red Wizards that work with him. This informs them of his attitudes and strategies for deception and self gratification. This is a safety precaution to help make sure that history does not repeat itself. Among other noticeable attributes, the use of a specific spell called Mind Rape was there. This spell has the ability to break into people's minds and change their thoughts and memories. This spell is how Tillenbirg can get away with all of his misdeeds. It does more than show no evidence against him, but shows evidence against him being a suspect. DuCain made sure that he would tell the other Red Wizards that Eltab was coming.

Eustace noticed that there were people following the party after they bought the goods in disguise. There were three people; the same three that met Eustace before. Millikin reluctantly introduced himself after Calvin Ford expressed his discontent for these unknown visitors. Millikin seemed very nervous and seemed very fixated in finishing this conversation quickly. He wanted to know if it was Eustace and company that killed Zalnulphir. Calvin Ford and Ehskabel were interested to what importance this information was and how these people knew Eustace and the party.

Millikin states that it was originally Rudolph Kaizer that was being spied on after his talk with Rubbin Kaizer. After losing track of Rudolph after he went in disguise, he looked for someone who traveled with him. Millikin talked to Eustace and stated that this started as a job from Zalnulphir to kill Rubbin Kaizer. After talking to Eustace, Mr. Smith was able to learn that it was this very group of people that killed Rubbin Kaizer. Millikin was interested to know if they killed Zalnulphir also. Eustace told him the truth. Millikin said that this should hopefully be the last time that they are bothered.

Calvin gave the sending to Karma and Karma said that he would talk at 11PM. The disguised themselves in case Karma retaliated for whatever reason. Calvin arrived at the time to see Karma at his shed with two other people who both had horns on their head and scaly skin. Those two left in a matter of moments. Calvin Ford started his conversation with Karma about the weapons. That conversation was short lived before Calvin Ford dismissed the rest of the party 150 feet to talk with Karma privately. Calvin Ford left the party in range of a dimensional anchor just in case the conversation went out of control.

Karma showed a more manipulative planning side of his personality at that moment. He revealed that he did know for a fact that he knew that it was Duke Derekson and Markaedus Callahan that went on Sembia's behalf. Not even his boss knew, but Karma is working with the two on the inside to make it better for Eltab to enter Sembia. Karma stated that it was his idea to direct the cult to Sembia in the first place. Karma knows that he has a business there and that he could profit from this job if he directed it to Ordulin. He told Calvin Ford that he is the only one that he really trusts here. He gave very subtle hints that he wanted Calvin Ford to help him.

Aside from that, he believes that there is someone behind Callahan that is directing the Sembians responsible for the plan. Karma states that he was cornered by Albert Tillman and Gisborn at some point and decided that it was in his best interest to tip some of his hand. Karma has felt proud of himself that he could still hide as much as he did. Karma has also done some investigation on Albert Tillman, and he is part of a movement group of revolutionaries that wish to change the present system. He has friends in the Silver Ravens and he is working with a member of the Merchant Council. Calvin Ford was presently surprised to know about this. More than anything, he was interested in the six figures that Karma mentioned when he talked about aiding the cult in its endeavors. Karma only specifically said not to tell Eshkabel about the information.

Calvin Ford felt that this information was sufficient and decided that it was a good time to call a night. Shortly after the conversation Eustace realized that the party was being followed. People in robes and armor with crests of Mephistopheles acted against Calvin Ford and company for the revenge of their spiritual leader, Zalnulphir. A battle with massive magical explosives erupted in the streets of Ordulin before they were defeated. Luckily, it was already past midnight, and there was no immediate response to a battle that happened towards the edge of the city.

When the party arrived at the Califomme manner, Calvin Ford informed the members of the party that weren't Eshkabel. Albert Tillman told them that there was no name to the group. The group was made mostly of commoners and very little action has been taken. The person in the Sembian Merchant Council that was helping was no less than acting head, Bartholomew Talendar. He said not to tell anyone that he was a part of this movement, but he sees a great deal of deception on behalf of the non-governmental organizations committee. He thought that it needed to be investigated. Both Talendar and Gisborn have been the real useful and credible sources of information for guiding my mission plans.

The party decided that their next move would be to speak with Talendar in the morning.

Flamerule 5th
After the success defeating cultists, the party had realized that they had some across a fortune of goods. Eustace left in disguise to sell the goods with unique skills. After visiting several stores to get the money for these items, Eustace hears a familiar voice yelling out in the distance. He runs over and he looks up to see Karma jumping from the tops of buildings. He is yelling, saying things like "I won't let you get away". Eustace followed Karma to a corner. There was no one there, but as soon as that happened a force sphere appeared around empty space. Eustace looked up to see Khaldun there. The Blue Orchid is inside the sphere. Khaldun floats down from building and greets Eustace. Khaldun gives an angry stare to Karma as he asks everyone to join him back to his lair. Eustace is unsure of this offer, but Khaldun smiles and assures Eustace that nothing will happen to him.

Khladun teleports with Karma Eustace and his force sphere. Eustace sees himself in a baron cave out in a snowy place. Khladun states that Eustace is over 2,000 miles from home. There they are standing there is a marking. Khaldun assure the Blue Orchid, that no one can teleport here or out of here besides he. The four figures in black surround the guests as well as other undead in the cave. Khaldun releases the force sphere and asks for his artifact back. The Blue Orchid remains silent. Khaldun shoots a sound lance at the Blue Orchid, but she remains resolute. Khladun cracks a smirk and states that her reputation proceeds her.

Eustace seems uncomfortable, when Khladun starts on his large rant. His unique abilities allow him to track a person merely by studied and looking for them or people that know them for 24 hours. This power is extraordinary and acts even better than a discern location. He states that the Blue Orchid was truly difficult to find, and with the artifact he gave to Karma, she also had constant Mind Blank. Normally, it would be impossible to find you, but Khaldun's methods are absolute. The Blue Orchid remains silent.

Khaldun lets out a small frown. He states that with this search he can learn everything about a person. He can learn where they live, who they know, even personal relationships in their past. Everyone the Blue Orchid ever knew is someone Khladun can meet in an instant. Khladun states "Now, do you understand the position you are in, Illera?" The Blue Orchid's eyes grow wide, but the Blue Orchid remains silent.

"Fine!" utters Khladun. "You have left me no choice but to reveal the worst of my plan" Khladun starts talking about the fact that she has a young child. Khladun states that second in command is a horrible monster known as a linnorm. These ancient monsters are as horrible and sadistic as they come. He ordered him to kill the foster family she is with and take her child out for a walk. now, the family is dead and any response back to Pelgratarim will let him know that he can kill the child. He states that if he takes too long that he might just do it anyway. The Blue Orchid breaks down and Eustace hears the familiar voice of Illera. She sounds very little like the suave and extremely charismatic person she was before, but a genuinely worried parent. "You're bluffing, there is no way that you could orchestrate that so quickly." Khladun states that just because you can hide from diviners doesn't mean you can hide from agent retrievers. "You know that everything I said was true, are you willing to call my bluff?"

The Blue Orchid takes the artifact out of her bag. Khaldun states that if there is any trickery about giving the real artifact back, that her child will be killed immediately. She says that it is real, and tosses it to him. Khaldun pauses for a moment and looks at his artifact through a monocle. After pausing for a few seconds he states that her child is safely at home with his family. The Blue Orchid is silent.

Khladun goes back to Eustace now and thanks him for being so good about what happened. He really wanted to get his artifact back.He states that he has a job, but more like a favor with pay. For the moment, Khladun was checking on the Califomme manner, and that is why this happened. He offers Eustace 50,000 gold and reluctantly drops a small bag of platinum and jewels into Eustace's hands. He would like to know if Eustace could stall Tillenbirg. Eustace is surprised that Khaldun knows Tillenbirg.

Khladun states that Tillenbirg is more than a powerful Red Wizard who believes in Mephistopheles. He is the 1st Regent of Mephistopheles on Toril. The reason Khaldun knows him is that Khladun is the 1st Regent of Asmodeus on Toril. The two are almost rivals, and Khladun warns Eustace that many people underestimate what Tillenbirg is really capable of. Though Khladun believes that Eltab is more powerful, he believes that Tillenbirg is capable of killing him.

Khaldun reveals his job from Demogorgon. What he asked was to have Khaldun reveal that the Arch Fiend Eltab no longer control his hidden layer in the Abyss and that he is the eternal slave of the Prince of Demons, Demogorgon. Khaldun reiterates that Demogorgon stated that the fiend must approach his layer in submission to his power. This mission is impossible. Khladun states that he has worked with Eltab to gain his trust for his. At the moment, Eltab wants nothing more than revenge on Thay. Knowing very well that his enemies in Thay are stronger than when he last attacked and failed, Khaldun does not want Eltab to be killed attacking Thay.

Eustace agrees on that stalling Tillenbirg is a goo idea. Khaldun states that he will give the worth of the artifact that he let Karma use as payment if they do this. Khaldun states that what he wants to make sure that Eltab doesn't die. He advises Eustace not to word it like that so much as to put the emphasis on Tillenbirg.

Khaldun look at Karma and states that he has made things far harder for him than it should be. For this, he needs to be disciplined. the surround Karma. Khaldun look back at the Blue Orchid. "I am giving this mission to you as well. Your payment is keeping your artifact." The Blue Orchid remains silent. At that point he puts a force sphere around Eustace and the Blue Orchid and teleports back to Ordulin.

Once they arrive in Ordulin, the Blue Orchid turns invisible and leaves and Khaldun waves to Eustace as he disappears again. Eustace walks back to give a monumental fortune to the party and news about a mission from Khaldun. Albert said that it was still early and that the party should leave to go to Bartholomew's house before Duke Derekson could get to their house.

The party left for Bartholomew's house quickly. It was right around the corner. At the door, there was a familiar face. They were looking at the same halfling they saw at Callahan's door. He greeted them kindly as he knocked on the door to talk with Bartholomew. Once inside, they saw a great manner Bartholomew, a skinny older man with gray hair and ceremonial robes greeted Lambert and greeted Albert.

He let the party in and spoke fondly of the people that helped Albert do everything that he has done. Lambert speaks and states that the conversation with Callahan did not go too well for him, but he is sure that he is hiding information about an attack on Silverdale and hiding his relationship with the Church of Shar. Bartholomew states that he has hired the Blue Orchid to spy on Duke Derekson to help gain information about Callahan. His actions in the last council meeting have compromised guilt over something. Duke Dereson's actions have become unruly and Callahan. A written report shows that Callahan now has assassins watching over Duke Derekson. one of them is a clearly a Sharran and the other has no distinct relationship with Callahan besides the fact that he was well paid. It is my suspicion that Callahan plans on killing Duke Derekson. He states that he has talked to Gisborn.

Albert tells Bartholomew with the party's conversation with Callahan. Calvin Ford makes it clear that Callahan's guilt was evident in the conversation. Callahan actually had to leave in the middle of the conversation. Bartholomew gave a hardly laugh and wished that he could have seen that old man sweat. He worries about retaliation then. He states that one of the big problems has been Duke Derkson's move to control the Silver Ravens. With this, he will be able to just walk into the Califomme manor.

Calvin Ford states that dealing with him is as easy as resisting. If Duke Derekson tries to arrest the party or use his warrant, he will need to find grounds for this action. If Duke Derekson is really in a bad state of mind, this means that maybe he would confess guilt with stress. Bartholomew agrees to the idea, but states that it could be very dangerous.

Bartholomew states that he also believes that there is someone working behind Callahan. his actions and his personality do not mix. The suspected assassination of Duke Derekson is a key example. The person behind him must be ruthless and willing to take even the most atrocious actions on a whim. It seems that even Callahan values trust. Bartholomew believes that it maybe the Countess Mirabeta that is responsible for this. Bartholomew believes that her death was covered up so that she could act under Emperor Miklos and live.

The conversation continued and the people in the party enlightened Barhtolomew with the results of their deeds and the connections between Duke Derekson, Callahan and Tillenbirg. Barhtolomew wished the greatest luck and stated that he would do his best to try and compromise guilt form the two of them in council meetings.

The party made their way back as Bartholomew continued to talk with Lambert. Everyone went back to the Califomme manner. A few hours later, there was an unexpected knock the door of the Califomme manor. Eustace walked to get the door and there was a man in traveler's clothing and a light brown pony tail at the door. His expression was calm. He merely asked to see Eshkabel. Eustace had no idea who he was, but he let this man in. Once inside he looked around the house impressed and sat in a chair. Ehskabel came in and he got up and introduced himself. He said that his name was Grahm Bakura Mandalax. Eshkabel was shocked to believe that this type of figure would come to meet him.

He sat back in the chair and asked Eustace to give him some tea. While there he told Ehskabel to tell him everything he knew about a man called Vinnrick. He stated that it was not the first he has heard of Vinnrick, but the first he heard that he was a Child of Woe. Ehskabel was worried and knew that Vinnrick's advice about how to talk to Grahm would prove pointless. Grahm was enlightened by Eshkabel's words and complimented the tea. Grahm gave Eshkabel a job. His job was to convert or kill a group of Loviatar followers that are in the north. The Sharran's have told him of their presence, and they act as a group against those who wish to help him. The Sharrans have done well to give him the file of Eshkabel's deeds as a corrupter back in Innarlith six years ago.

Eshkabel was stunned that he learned that about it. He obliged to his command and took the job. Grahm told him that this group has something that we both want. Grahm makes mention of Eshkabel's book. Eshkabel's eyes grow wide when he hears about that book again. It had been years since he had touched that book, but not minutes since he thought of it. Grahm told him that someone up north had the book and that is the reason why he is interested with these people. This also gives Eshkabel a chance to do what he does, gather more followers for Cyric. Stunned by his sheer presence, Eshkabel knew he was before his lord. He graciously accepted this mission and then Grahm took his leave. Once he left, everyone felt they needed an explanation. Eshkabel himself was not expecting that visit and told him that it was a surprise to have tht happen.

The topic of money managed to distract Calvin Ford from the curiosity of this mysterious visitor.

Flamerule 6th
One the morning of the next day, the party had a plan to warn Duke Derekson of the actions of Tillenbirg and get a chance to talk to him. They would cover their actions for Albert Tillman as an investigation of Tillenbirg and the actions of the Devil's Laugh. Eshkabel sent to Duke Derekson and he arrived.

In minutes Duke Derekson was at the door. He was there with the two assassins, two people bearing the symbol of Illmater, Illera, and several Silver Ravens. He ordered those that came with him to remain outside when he talked to the Eustace and the party. He stepped inside and the party told him about Tillenbirg. Duke Derekson was stunned. He had no idea that Eltab was the demon and that Tillenbirg planned to fight him inside Ordulin. Duke Derekson was glad to hear the news, but he switched tones quickly when he talked about the pursuit of Albert Tillman.

Duke Derekson states that he was looking for him. He believes that Albert Tillman is worthy of investigation, but hoped that he would cooperate to show that he was innocent. By running away, Duke Derekson believes that he is guilty of the crime of treason against the Sembian government.

Calvin Ford argued that they did nothing that would qualify as treason. Duke Derekson raised his tone as he stated about his movement of people to spy and overthrow the government. He worked with others in restricted areas and traveled to Suzail. Calvin Ford said that Duke Derekson knew this already. If this was a crime, why wait until now. Duke Derekson believed that Albert Tillman was innocent until his actions were linked together. Both Calvin and Eshakbel still could not find a reason to tell for this investigation. Duke Derekson yelled and pointed at the party. "If you defend this criminal, then you are among them! I do what is right for Sembia!" He opens the door and orders the Silver Ravens and his students inside for the investigation. The assassins try to enter with him, but Duke Derekson speaks to them like they are trash. He orders a light investigation. The Califomme compound is a historical landmark now and he does not want people breaking Jonas's inventions.

While the investigation is going on, both Calvin and Ehskabel tell him that his plan is wrong. At the moment his students and the Silver Ravens look at him. Duke Derekson said that he is doing the right thing for Sembia. He tried to work as a paladin in Sembia, and he got no where. He needed to stain his hands to do good. The party disagrees as the students state that these actions go against the faith of Illmater. Duke Derekson states that it is impossible to pick up a diamond from the mud without dirtying your hands. Calvin states that you can clean your hands. Duke Derekson states that he knows what is best, and he will speak with Callahan and Tillenbirg. The Silver Ravens find nothing of value and Eustace tells him that his father used to love th land. Duke Derekson stated that he had looked up to Jonas when he was a child. Duke Dereson grabs his head. "There was supposed to be no problems. This is right!  I will help rebuild Sembia.  I will suffer to make sure that Sembia prospers." Calvin states "You care more for the pride of Sembia than the people of Sembia." Ehskabel adds how ironic that a palain is the one who lead to the evil and plan the death of the people in Sembia. "How dare you say that about me? I am not like the Darkhearted!" he yells as he pulls out his sword. Calvin states if you have any shred of good, that he will act in the stead of the law rather than striking people down for personal causes. Duke Derekson sneers and the sheaths his sword. He orders the Silver Ravens out. He looks back and then he leaves the Califomme compound.

Later that day, the party talks about how they will deal with this situation. The problem is that Duke Derekson holds the power of the Silver Ravens in his hand. Calvin remembers that there is another paladin in the Sembian Merchant Council. Since no one remembers him or spoke to him, the party wrote a message and had Eustace's maggot golem send the message to Herald Daleheart in person. Albert Tillman knew the whereabouts but did not want to risk the party's safety out in the open. In several minutes, he returned with an awkward look on his face. Herald had an awkward look on his face when the party contacted him. CAlvin brought him up to speed and said that they had already spoke to Bartholomew about this. Herald has stated that Bartholomew had talked to him about joining the movement, but he declined a request to act in his regular nature since he was appointed into the merchant council.

Herald does state that he does need to act to stop Duke Derekson from killing innocent Sembians. Herald states that Duke Derekson has no administrative power over the Silver Ravens. If Herald can convince those of authority and those in the Silver Ravens that Duke Derekson's motives, they will not listen to him. Calvin preps him up for his task. Herald has decided that it will take him several days to do this task. Hopefully he is successful.

That night, Wein believes it is time to use speak with the dead to learn the whereabouts of his family. Wein asks Ehskabel to ask Zalnulphir where she was when she spotted her brother and sister. The answer stated that they met over four years ago in the Southern Shaar before the advent of the Devil's Laugh when the group was primarily a bunch of left over Night Masks that ran from destruction of the group. The two of them were set to follow the group even after it became the Devils Laugh to find the old leader Sri'Lane up until the time of his death.

Wein also asked a question about how she met Tillenbirg. She stated that she knew who Tillenbirg was after she lost faith in Lolth after her silence. She knew who Tillenbirg was, but he came to see her in Sembia to see if he could get people to help him in his plans. Wein knew that after his adventure was done in Sembia, that he would need to travel up north to Vaasa to look for his siblings.

Flamerule 7th
The next morning Eustace was curious to learn more about his father from talking to his best friend Dario. Eshkabel remained silent about his knowledge of Dario's death and decided not to travel to Waterdeep. Eustace, Wein and Calvin decided to look for a wizard teleport service in Ordulin to take them to Waterdeep. For a mild fee the party was able to get a round trip to Waterdeep and back to Ordulin.

At Waterdeep, everyone enjoyed the hospitality as Wein went gear shopping. Eustace decided that he would try to find information about Dario. He got information in the richer more magical areas of Waterdeep. Dario had his own tower in the direction of Kelben Tower, only a few blocks away. It was not difficult to find Dario's tower.

Once there, Eustace knocked on the door only to spot Greymus Tallmuth standing at the door. A smaller skinnier man than average holding a staff. Eustace introduced himself as the son of Dario's best friend, Jonas Califomme. Gryemus lets Eustace and his friends inside as he hits in a chair and takes out a black book. Greymus states that Dario is dead. He does not know what killed Dario or that he is dead 100%, but he cannot detect Dario. He believes that the one that killed Dario was Vinnrick. Calvin Ford states that he heard someone mention Vinnrick to Eshkabel. Greymus states that Vinnrick is a dangerous man who cannot be trusted. He advises the party to watch their move around anyone who talks with Vinnrick.

Eustace is still interested in anything that Dario had to mention about Jonas. Greymus looks through the books and reads chapters where Dario talks about Jonas. Greymus makes an observation that through the years, he has heard remarkably little about Jonas from his best friend. The books mentions a form of adoration for his brilliance, but also a darker side to his inner emotions towards Jonas.

One by one, Dario's diary mentions the exploits of their party as they battled every villain that has come back to haunt Eustace up to now. There is a consistent message of respect and jealousy throughout this book. It was clear that both Dario and Jonas were the most known of the group, but Jonas always got the respect and the hatred. People always remembered him and Dario felt as it he was merely a sidekick towards the end. He began to resent some of Jonas's inventions and actions.

Eustace was interested to know that shortly before Dario's decline from good, that he mentioned a a new invention that he was interested in making. Dario left on a trip to the Blood Marshes to identify with the divine energies released from the battle to help Jonas when he suddenly received the memories of Bane during the battle. Greymus states that the book changes from this point. Dario kept writing until he supposedly came back to his senses after the Wrath of the Rakshasa. Whether it be a decline into madness again, or meerely deception from the start; Dario went back to Vinnrick and left this book behind.

Greymus apologizes for having no useful information about Jonas and proceeds to warn the party about Vinnrick once again. The party leaves Dario's Tower and contacts the wizard to go back to Ordulin. Everyone returns to find out that it seems as if both Albert and Eshkabel have had relaxing days in the Califomme manor.

Flamerule 8th
The 8th seemed to be a restful day waiting for Herald's results when there was a knock on the door. The party saw a familiar face as they saw Thumara-sal at the door. He asked if he and his superior could enter. Eustace obliged as the stepped aside for a taller shinny man with dark gray hair. He appeared to be a man in his mid 40s and he introduced himself as Alinard Solkern, the head of the Red Wizards in Saerloon.

He cracks a smirk and asks about what the party has learned about Tillenbirg. Alinard lists off both Boxworth and DuCain as sources for the knowledge and events caused by a Mr. Calvin Ford and company. Alinard is not overly serious, but he speaks fast. He wants to know if Tillenbirg is truly responsible for assassination attempts on Boxworth and against others in the merchant council. When that is mentioned, Eustace pulls the body of Zalnulphir out of his bag and shows Alinard. It is not the first time that he has seen manners in such poor tastes, but he does recognize her as an ally of Tillenbirg. Calvin Ford states that she is the one that assassinated councilor Drelenore Foxmantle of the Selgaunt noble family.

Alinard is not quite the pushover DuCain is. He states that there are many problems with Tillenbirg's actions and something needs to be done. Though Tillenbirg has absolute authority over the Red Wizards in Sembia, it is clear that this could be a emergency for the relations between Sembia and Thay. Alinard states that he will give a message to the Zulkier of Necromancy to reestablish Tillenbirg's objectives and advise him not to kill the members of the Sembian Merchant Council. In less than a ten minute conversation, Alinard walks out the door thanking the party for their information.

Later that day, Eustace is depressed at the thought of the time it would take to finish his experiments. He knew that his pop managed to build these iron titans like they were in an assembly line. It was like he had his own personal army with him. Eustace knew that Jonas had a lab that he still hasn't found. For several minutes he looked at tiny crevasses and any hint of change for a secret passage. His efforts proved a failure until he moved a single book from his bookshelf.

After moving his book, the shelf moved aside revealing a stair case. Eustace never thought to check the shelf. After walking down a flight of stairs, Eustace is met with a lab guard by two iron golems with a gatling attached to each arm. When Eustace arrives, the two welcome his to his father's laboratory. A note on one of the reveals that Jonas specifically wanted Eustace to find this lab when he was ready to take over his inventions.

In the lab, he found many facts and secrets he was waiting to find. He found many detecated rights to help him build his inventions faster. Eustace found a manual written by Jonas on how to build Iron Golems. He found loose blueprints on how to make new projectile weaponry. This and far more were scattered out as inventions or ideas throughout his lab. Eustace saw an Iron Golem near completion. He knew that this was his chance to see if he could truly follow in the footsteps of his father.

Eustace spent the rest of the day building his new helper.

Flamerule 9th- 13th
Herald got back to the party on the morning of the 13th. His news was of success of his actions. Herald managed to make Duke Derekson act out of coarse with Bartholomew and he was exonerated of his authority over the Silver Ravens. Though not proven, it seemed evident that Duke Derekson was hiding something at the last council meeting. His words included betrayal by everyone especially Callahan. Callahan managed to divert the attention away from himself, but it was clear that Duke Derekson has broke. He has lost his authority in the Silver Ravens and his credibility in the Sembian Merchant Council.

The party was delighted to hear that Herald was successful. Herald came to ask for a favor. Herald respects Duke Derekson for his actions and he would like to know if the party could help him. Even in the council meeting, it was clear that it was the words mentioned by the party that brought Duke Derekson over the edge. Herald asked if the party could come and perhaps help Duke Derekson find his faith again.

Calvin Ford was not looking forward to doing this, and Eshkabel was morally against helping a possible enemy. Herald stated that Duke could be a powerful ally. He holds proof of Callahan's guilt in his mind, and he might be just what it needed to take him down. Eustace agreed, and the party agreed slowly. Calvin Ford just wanted to make sure that the party would defend themselves if Duke Derekson attacked. Herald said to do what it necessary. He just wanted to give Duke Derekson one more chance.

The party arrives at Duke Derekson's door and knocks. Duke steps out, clearly defeated. His face reveals the mind set of a someone who has given up. "Haven't you done enough to me? I've lost my power and my credibility.  What else must you do to me now?" he says in a low quiet voice. He talks about how things were supposed to be. Duke was supposed to be a hero, he was supposed to reform the Sembian government to make Sembia better for everyone.

"Taking the easy way out again, Duke Derekson." Calvin stated. Duke did not know how to respond. He yelled and said that it was not easy. A paladin does not make a good councilor. He was put on the council because of his heroic deeds, not because he would be a good councilor. He learns how to be effective, and not everyone hates him. Duke Derekson goes on a monologue of his experiences in the battle at the Citadel of the Raven and his failures and efforts within the merchant council. It is evident that he suffered a great deal making these choices. Calvin repeated the same line and told him that it is not too late to come back. Maybe Duke Derekson was not meant to be a politician, but perhaps he could still fight on the side of good.

Duke Derekson stood silent for a while. He passed his moment of darkness and looked back at his house. "There is always a way." He thanks Calvin Ford and smiles for the first time that the party has ever seen. That is the time where he claims that there is a great deal of cleansing that needs to be done. He walks back into his house where Eustace and Calvin can hear the sounds of loud speech and the unsheathing of a weapon.

Session 13: Illuminating the Caverns
Once Calvin heard the unsheathing of the sword, Calvin told Herald who then proceeded to break down the door. Inside Duke Derekson's house, the two assassins are there. The one bearing the symbol of Shar is trying to talk Duke Derekson out of his attack. From another corner from a guest room, a person in dark robes and another in dark armor both with horns and scaly skin walk intro the door.

The two people smirk when they see Duke Derekson unsheathe is his. He looks and sees the Silver Ravens next to him. He realizes what is going on. "Callahan really needed all of you here just to take me out. It was a shame you weren't counting me having any allies." Duke Derekson says in a cocky voice as he throws his extremely large sword over his shoulder as he is ready to fight.

The battle is a vicious struggle of forces between powerful thralls of Eltab, rogue Silver Ravens, Duke Derekson's students, Duke Derekson, the party, Herald and the assassin. The Sharran assassin managed to escape and one of the rogue Silver Ravens was taken hostage. The only casualty on the side of the party was Duke Derekson and his students. He was the target of the assassins and it was clear that the thralls wanted the worshipers of Illmater dead.

Herald was nearly killed and healed shortly after the battle. He had no problem harshly interrogating the rogue Silver Raven for evidence. His confession coincided with the suspicions of Bartholomew. Herald decided that it would be a good time to get Callahan. The party believes that if Callahan has the power to us the authority of the Silver Ravens to betray Duke Derekson and Sharran assassins, that perhaps raiding his residence might not be the greatest idea. Three days form now is the next council meeting. Callahan will have to leave the security of his own house if he wants to be appear innocent and help pass the bill he is so desperately fighting for. Herald asks for the time, the prisoner will be kept under the care of the Silver Ravens. Herald invites the party to come to the meeting for the Sembian Merchant Council.

Silver Ravens come to take the bodies of the dead. Herald bring back other clerics to help be positive that it was in fact Callahan that hired all of these people, including the assassin.

Flamerule 14h-16th
On the 16th, Albert Tillman wake up bright and early and gets everyone to go to the council meeting. The main hall is perhaps the only building well guarded as they once again ask for the name of the party. When Calvin Ford states his name, the guard asks for the others. Once all states they are all invited under both Herald and Bartholomew.

At the great hall, it is clear that there are three missing councilors at this meeting. Bartholomew makes mention of the death of Derelenore as Herald makes mentione of the death of Duke Derekson. Bartholomew also states that Tiroir Sosec, the Vice Chairperson of the Committee of Non-Governmental Organizations in Sebmia has resigned from the Sembian Merchant Council and has moved to Calimsham. Callahan states that there needs to be an appointment for tie breakers.

Sitting at the quests the party spots another man who Eustace can tell looks like Karma in disguise.Despite that, Herald is smiling at the party whispering that he has the prisoner ready. The first main difference in this council meeting is that Bartholomew is no longer acting as the head of the council. Kendrick Selkirk has taken his place as the Overmaster of Sembia.

Kendrick speaks impatiently as he states that the filibustering is over. A vote must be done this meeting. Callahan starts speaking on he benefits he speaks from an ally that he has been speaking to when Herald indicates that the supposed ally that Callahan is referring to is responsible for the death of merchant council member Duke Derekson. Bartholomew states agreements with a Keilrecht Tillenbirg, who is responsible for the the death of council member Drelenore.

Callahan sweats a little bit at the comment, but tries to direct of the focus of the meeting on the politics and policy rather than investigations. Bartholomew and Herald jump at the opportunity to use information the party has gathered to reveal Callahan's plot. They state that is was Callahan that conspired the death of Duke Drekson. Herald makes reference to a divination testimony of the death rogue Silver Ravens and asks his guests that were present fighting alone side Herald when Duke Derekson was slain.

Calvin Ford speaks and testifies against Callahan. After making a wise crack against Mirabeta, Callahan loses cool and clearly yells that the hall is out of control. He claims that all that is being said is circumstantial nonsense. Speak with the dead and other forms of divination are based on a perception of truth. Duke Derekson was losing his mind and could have percieved anything to be his truth. Callahan retorted that the killed assassin and rogue Silver Raven, as well as the living captured rogue Silver Raven are not in a loss of mind.

Callahan pleads to Kendrick to end this nonsense. This is a council meeting, the prosecution of his alleged trial interrogation happening in a council meeting has no proof. He states that there are several people merely yelling out ridiculous claims against his innocence. Kendrick Selkirk believes that the proof of divination with no trial is no grounds of guilt for a punishment, but it is grounds for an investigation. Callahan gasps at this remark. He cannot believe that Kendrick would turn on the very person who helped make him who he is. Kendrick states that he believes in Callahan, and that if he is innocent, an investigation should be nothing to worry about.

Kendrick Selkirk adjourns the council meeting and orders a small groups of Silver Ravens to join him at the Callahan residence. Bartholomew follows along and asks why not visit his other residence. Callahan's face turns ghostly white as Bartholomew mentions Callahan's frequent trips to Searloon that he heard about the intelligence from the people in the Morninglords of Saerloon while talking with Lambert. Kendrick is intrigued, he did not believe that Callahan had another residence.

Kendrick states that perhaps it will take a while to get there, maybe his main residence should be checked first. Calvin Ford interrupts and states that he can take them there. If someone scries Callahan, they might learn of an investigation and hide the evidence. Calvin uses his new boots of teleportation to take Kendrick Selkirk, Callahan, Eshkabel, Bartholomew and Eustace to Saerloon. Kendrick Selkirk is not worried about having no Silver Ravens.

He marches to main guard building and asks to speak to Lady Merelith. The guards immediately comply with the Overmaster and inform her. Once she arrives, she notices Calvin Ford and sees the young Kendrick Selkirk in front of her. He demands her greatest guards for an investigation of the Sharran temple on the grounds of divination for charge of murder against Merchant Council member Duke Derekson. She complies directly and offers him her finest guards.

The guards march through Saerloon until they reach the temple of Shar. Before entering the temple, Eshkabel disguises himself so not to be spotted by the Sharran clerics. Upon arrival, the clerics act very deceptive and try their hardest not to reveal the whole temple to group. Kendrick Selkirk is very impatient and naturally holds a grudge against most Sharrans because of his father. He threatens to have the Sembian army level the temple of they do not comply with his demands. Bartholomew attempts to calm him down from his rage. Realizing that there is no way to avoid the truth, the Sharrans open up the floor of one of the back prayer rooms. There is a steep staircase barely lit running down for several minutes. After they reach a flat surface, the cavern turns reveals itself as a mini base of operations.

Callahan's personal papers and deal are all here. There are plans to open the borders and restrict areas to carry out a deal with the Orcs: plans of organization with Tillenbirg to help get his vote, news on the movement of troops that worship Loviatar taking Silverdale under siege. Callahan also planned the events with the Monks of the Dark Moon to invite private guests from Innarlith and Calimsham over for secret meetings. Eustace found the paper with all the signature for the deal with the Orcs and Cormyr not to attack or stop the orc attacks on trade route carriages without Sembian interference. Both Callahan and Duke Derekson signed their signatures as well as the two people from the Cult of Eltab there were responsible for dealing the death blow to Duke Derekson.

Callahan knew that he was done. He knew that he had no chance to be innocent. In a complete loss of his charisma, he starts prophesizing about his great deeds to reorganize Sembia. He was going to rebuilt the government from its tyrannical monarchy under the emperor and turn Sembian into a business power.

Kendrick knows that he is guilty, but still wishes to check his main residence in Ordulin. Ehskabel uses his Word of Recall to bring the guests back Califomme manor. From the front door of the Califomme manor, Callahan's residence is right around the corner. Callahan held no incriminating evidence inside his main estate, but he did reveal the fact that he was being directed at Searloon. Kendrick asked Callahan to comply for a lighter sentence. He knew that it was done, and he went to an obscure corner of a small room. He moved a piece of furniture and then tore out the carpet to reveal a doorway down through a dark staircase. After going down this staircase, there seemed to be a nice looking hallways with paintings of people in the Selkirk family leading to a room where you heard elderly woman and male voice talking. Ehskabel recognized the voice as one of the people talking to him with Larloch at the temple of Shar.

Kendrick was not patient and opened the door immediately. The only person there was an elderly woman. Kendrick Selkirk sneers immediately the sight of her. Ehskabel detected magic to see that the other person was still in the room. She looked mildly annoyed to see that Callahan was here ratting her out. Kendrick states that she has been directing Callahan and attempts to use his authority to arrest the Countess Mirabeta. She states that there is no paper linking the two or any binding agreement of authority between them. She has no problem with Kendrick executing Callahan. He is in shock. Callahan says that he was her plan from the beginning. She wanted the vote, she wanted to use the Monks of the Dark Moon to attack the forces at Silverdale. She says that she wanted the Sharrans to attack the forces that have Silverdale under siege to make a private army under no formal government. She wanted this, but it was Callahan that took all the steps to make it happen. She was not involved in anyway. "Planning to do a crime is not doing a crime.    I am not guilty of anything." after that comment she goes off in a monologue about how it is interesting that she was considered the devil to Sembia because of her nephew, but the people brought her back. She mentions that it is a clear indication of which person in the family they really needed more. Mirabeta says all of this in a slow calm voice as she requests to finish her other conversation.

Calvin Ford whispers next to Selkirk "If she is rumored to be dead, then what is the difference is she remains dead?". Kendrick Selkirk gets a crooked smile as he say "Slime like you does not deserve to live." He unsheathes his sword and gets ready to strike. At that exact moment she pull out a knife an yells "I'm not losing my chance at power to an inept child of my nephew." Eustace gave displacement to Kendrick as and Mirabeta misses her attack. Eshkabel uses the Clutch of Orcus to hold Mirabeta. "Help me, I'm in danger." she says in a weak voice. "You've disappointed me. You are no ally of mine." he voice says as he teleports away. She yells for the Lord of Loss to return. She knows that she is powerless and begs for a trial. Kendrick pauses for a moment and says "Trial... I am your judge, jury and executioner!" as he stabs her right in the heart with his sword.

She falls straight to the ground dead. Kendrick thanks everyone with him as they leave the Callahan residence. The Silver Ravens return and Callahan is escorted to prison. Kendrick is energized and feels ready for anything. He speaks about a plan to reclaim Silverdale and defeat the Cult of Eltab. Bartholomew is greatly discouraged by Kendricks actions. He wished for the young Overmaster to carefully think his next actions. Calvin Ford reveals to Kendrick Tillenbirg's plan to lore Eltab into Sembia to use civilians as sacrifices to help summon Mephistopheles. Kendrick plans on setting up a force as soon as he can assemble it.

Eustace asks for a ten day waiting period for him to prepare himself. Kendrick leaves in high spirits towards the Barracks of the Silver Ravens.

Flamerule 17th-21st
The days up to the 21st were mainly spent reading tomes that the party had bought to try to increase their mental capabilities, or physical in Wein's case. Two things happened before the 21st of worth while mention. on the 18th, Wein had a strong desire to wear the artifact he obtained from Gomand Pusk. Shortly after wearing it, he felt tired and went to sleep. When noticing that Wein was wearing his artifact, both Calvin and Eshkabel planning on destroying the artifact. Eshkabel managed to destroy it with one disintegrate. What followed was the sound of a low pitch laugh followed by the dark silhouette of of a menacing fiend revealing his menacing presence. The fiend offered Ehskabel one favor that he would grant. An indecisive Ehskabel finally decided that have the demon "say hello" to Tillenbirg.

Eshkabel was very sidetracked with his personal duties. Eshkabel has been giving sendings to Grahm to try to elaborate on his mission in the north. Ehskabel planned the mission to happen early at dawn of the 21st.

The 21st, Eshkabel met several Sharrans at the south gate of Ordulin. Eshkabel saw a familiar face when he looked to see the shade he saw at the temple before. He introduced himself as Char Fek, an assassin out to kill the halfling by the name of Lambert. While looking for resources, he got a mysterious visit from a source. He did not know if he could rely on the source, but it had intimate knowledge of his life and knew things that coincided with Char Fek's research. He learned the locations of Lambert's contact in Silverdale and wanted to go up north and kill some clerics of Lathander to lore Labert intro a trap. There is a secondary mission from the Champions to pay careful attention to the group that resides in Silverdale. This group follows Shar's rival, the Pain Maiden Loviatar.

One of the people grasps all the others and teleported the group inside Silverdale. Eshkabel used his potion to disguise himself as a cleric of Lathander and the others became invisible. With the ring of Glibness, Ehskabel knew that he would be able to convince the clerics. The clerics were not willing to let anyone in to begin with, but after talking with Ehskabel they rushed him inside the building. The clerics talked about the resistance they put against the group to begin with. It was odd how things happened. The group was rumored to be a sect of two part group called the Neo-Zhentarim. This sect was said to be a group of Loviatar worshipers that work under Palar the Darkhearted. the clerics were wrong, and it seemed that though Palar was there, he was not the leader of the group. The group merely referred to itself as a cell in the Church of Loviatar. The clerics did not know who the leader was, but they believed that he is the one that killed the most patron clerics of the church.

Eshkabel absorbed what he heard and looked to see what powerful clerics resided in this temple. He saw a few that could be troublesome for him, but he knew that no one here was as powerful as Lambert. With a slight upward glance, Eshkabel made a sign. Ehskabel fooled the clerics into believing that he had solution to the problem. The main cleric was about to respond before he killed in single shot. The clerics scramble as a few of the more powerful clerics take center stage. One of them yells that some of the Loviatar people must have come in while they let this one cleric in. He is about to cast am invisibility purge when Ehskabel destroys him. "A set up!" another yells as arrows continue to kill cleric after another. Ehskabel gives the clerics a chance to give up to save their lives. The clerics left are already tired of battle. The assassins drop from the ceiling and reveal themselves to the clerics. They see Sharans and are confused at the situation.

Eshkabel lectures the clerics and state that things will be different. man clerics are defiant still. Ehskabel looked around and saw many weaker clerics that he believed wouldn't be any use to him. Eshakbel cast blasphemy and killed many weak clerics as everyone saw him brandish a Cyric symbol. Channeling such evil energy through a dead god, they were in disbelief. Eshkabel decided that these clerics should be captured to have people to convert to his faith. Char Fek stated that the Sharrans merely wanted them dead. Eshkabel tried to persuade him that allies are better than dead enemies. Char Fek was not about to argue with him, Eshkabel was not allowing anything to happen that would compromise his bate. Ehskabel stated that it would be best to wait on fighting Lambert, there will be a battle in Silverdale in slightly over a week. That could be a better chance to finish him.

Char Fek was annoyed that the plan was changed, but he agreed that in the midst of more chaos, it would be easier to kill Lambert. At that point, all of them teleported back to the temple of Shar in Saerloon. There Eshkabel asked for Callahan's underground accommodations to be a prison or classroom for his new children. Those that went with Char Fek agreed and states that they would keep them alive. Eshkabel talked with his new children for a moment, and then used word of recall to go back to the Califomme manor.

Not too much after Eshakbel's return, Kendrick Selkirk was at the door with several Silver Ravens. He stated that he had a plan to go over Tillenbirg's head to have him attack the Cult of Eltab. Kendrick believed that the cult would attack the Red Wizards even if they were not legally allowed into Ordulin. Thought every source mentioned that Tillenbirg was dangerous and that he should have all the protection he can. he asked for everyone in the party to go except for Eustace. Kendrick knew about the story of Joans and Tillenbirg and feared that Tillenbirg would try to kill him. Eustace had no problem working on helper as they went to the Red Wizard enclave in Ordulin.

Both Alinard and DuCain showed up at the entrance to accompany Kendrick with the party on their agreement with Tillenbirg. They were led into the enclave where they found a large well decorated tent with two Red Wizards guarding it. One looked like an aging Arch Mage while the other looked young and agile with a crazy colorful mask on. These two looked at the Overmaster and looked to see both Alinard and DuCain. Once the party was confirmed, everyone was let in the tent to see Tillenbirg in disguise as a regular old man writing papers.

When everyone arrive, he stopped writing the papers and greeted everyone. Kendrick starts by giving his news about learning Tillenbirg's plans to use Ordulin as a battleground. He states that such a plan would jeopardize the relationship between Sembia and Thay, but he has talked to Tillenbirg's superior to work a plan that both sides could agree to. Kendrick declares that he suggested a team attack against the Cult of Eltab and the arch fiend himself. Calvin's face turns white as Kendricks speaks of killing the arch fiend. Tillenbirg seems to disagree with this plan at first. He states that a direct attack is predictable, and the fiends will be aware of the arrival of troops. Alinard states that this maybe the only time where Sembia can help Thay get rid of its enemies and it will help Thay foreign diplomacy. Tillenbirg looks angry for a second then becomes calm immediately. "So be it." he says in a low tone as Alinard now scratches his head at Tillenbirg's response. Calvin Ford remains silent, but he believes that Kendrick has changed the plan in Tillenbirg's favor. The meeting is over quickly, but work still needs to be done.

While the meeting is going on, Eustace receives a knock at his door. He sees a young man in a mid 20s with dark decorated armor bearing the crest of Bane. Two clerics of Tiamat beside him each advising him to calm him at the moment. He looks at Eustace with a stern look and asks to see Jonas Califomme. Eustace looks sad and then pops a smirk and says "He's dead." The man's face turns to rage when he says that as the clerics try and calm him down. He looks at Eustace makes the observation. He knows that Eustace is his son, but his mission from the Zhentarim granted to him when he was 5 years old was to kill Jonas. He says that his mission is done for now, but if he believes that the son has resumed the threat of the father, he will return for blood. Eustace waves goodbye to yet another villain that might haunt his future.

Eustace hear another knock at his door and opens it to see Karma there. Karma looks more worried than ever. He begs Eustace to give him a place to stay. He gives a story about Silver Ravens raiding his shed. karma believes that Kendrick as after his life. To escape the Silver Ravens, he needed to kill a few. Karma knows that he will be executed if he is found now. He begs Eustace for a chance to stay at his place. Eustace is forgiving and allows Karma a place to stay.

When the party gets back to the Califomme manor, Calvin asks Eshkabel to have him give Herald a sending to come immediately. Eshakbel sends giving a message that displays the severity of the upcoming problem. Herald is there minutes after the sending. Herald is saddened by this news. It has only been a few days, and the young Overmaster has already gone over his head. It appears that he is not ready. Herald asks if there is anyway to convince him. Calvin Ford states that he speaks with great confidence in his plan. Herald is willing to try again, and willing to see if he can make an argument in favor of a less radical option in the next meeting of the Silver Ravens. Herald is also deeply concerned about these actions, and he is willing to kill Kendrick if he believes it will help stop this attack.

Herald draft a plan where he comes to Silverdale and he is stopped by Calvin Ford. He tells Herald that it is too risky. Everyone advises Herald to take a similar course of action to when he was able to take Duke Derekson's authority over the Silver Ravens. Herald agrees and he walks off.

This is the time that Eustace enlightens the other party members that Karma is out the house. Eshkabel is outraged and demands compensation. Despite his reaction, Ehskabel is taking solace in the fact that Karma is under his power. Relishing every moment, Eshkabel takes full advantage of Karma in his weakened state. Karma decides that the solution should be as easy as killing Kendrick to stop the attack. Calvin states that someone else is likely to continue his will if he dies. That poses the question, what can get rid of Mind Rape. Calvin strongly believes that Tillenbirg used it on Kendrick and that he has planned this course of events as a fail safe. Eustace remembered that halfling that he saw twice. He was a strong Cleric of Lathander and an ally of Bartholomew. Eshkabel has no more sendings and he wanted to wait to see if Herald was successful.

Flamerule 22nd-26th
The morning of the 25th, Herald knocked on Eustace's door. Herald did not have good news this time. His face reflected good amount of failures. He stated that Kendrick had a much tighter hold on the Silver Ravens than Duke Derekson. In the next council meeting, he had an unwanted guest. Tillenbirg was in the great hall with the councilors. Kendrick Selkirk is confident of his plan and he cannot be convinced. In the council meeting, several members showed their discontent for his personal crusade. In anger Kendrick denounced that anyone that went against his plans was a traitor to Sembia. This brought everyone down to low spirits. Herald said that he would try to convince the people at the Silver Ravens one more time. He spoke these words knowing that he was going into danger. He was told to be safe once he left. Calvin's suspicions became a reality. There would be no reason for Kendrick to promote Tillenbirg so much if his mind were not warped. Even if he has not used Mind Rape yet, the party knew that Tillenbirg could not be trusted.

The party needed a method to defeat the spell. The best way to stop the attack was if they could get Kendrick to come back to his senses. Ehskabel said that it would most likely take magic of equal power to undo the effects of Mind Rape. Calvin stated that it was time to contact Lambert. Ehskabel gave a sending sharing the problem with Kendrick Selkirk's actions and the suggested suspicion with Tillenbirg.

Lambert responded and quickly arrived at the Califomme manor. Eustaced heard a knock and saw a smiling face slightly above waste level at his door in robes. Lambert was interested to hear about the problem. As soon as Mind Rape was mentioned, Lambert had a difficult face. "Such a spell is hardly ever used for the forces of good." stated Lambert. Lambert thought to himself, he had no simple for restoring someone's mind. He believes that a miracle should definitely have the ability to undo the damages of Mind Rape. Lambert says that he will go and Kendrick when he can. He used his powers to detect problems in Silverdale. Calvin ford told him that Kendrick plans on traveling towards Silverdale first to liberate it from the forces of Loviatar. Lambert decided that he would accompany Kendrick on the march to Silverdale and use this time to get close to him and see if he can use the miracle to "prepare him for the upcoming battle". This was a far more accepted plan than killing Kendrick to most of the party. Ehskabel was analyzing his enemy to see if he could find weaknesses to exploit. This is what he wanted to happen. This would give Ehskabel a chance to lore him into the Silverdale temple of Lathander.

Lambert was glad to know that he could help save hundreds of Sembian lives. He gave his blessing to everyone and left. He knew that he had a good amount of work to do preparing his leave. At this point the party was waiting for Herald to see if his second attempt worked any better. Eustace had finished Helper, and everyone had finished reading their tomes.

On the morning of the 26th, Kendrick knocked on the door of the Califomme compound bright and early. He was ready in crusading armor and traveler's equipment. He first wondered if the party was alright. Kendrick spoke of a plot against his plans by some of the members of the merchant council members. Calvin was interested in who. Kendrick stated that Toredale, Lansing and Herald Daleheart were arrested for plotting against the Sembian government. Kendrick thanked the party for enlisting the help of a powerful cleric. Lamber waves from about 50 feet behind Kendrick. Kendrick looks to see Helper and he says that he has been mobilizing forces all morning. He will be ready to leave in three hours by the north gate of Ordulin.

After Kendrick leaves there is a knock on the door. Khaldun appears and to give Karma the news that he will be going to Silverdale. He gives a heavy sigh and states that he must inform the party of the situation more than he has done so far. The situation with Eltab is difficult to deal with. Khaldun tells the rest of the party what he told Eustace about his mission. He is to give Eltab news that he no longer controls his layer and his job is to escort the arch fiend to Demogorgon's layer of the Abyss in submission. Since the deaths of the ambassadors, he has to rush and tell Eltab the truth. The best Khaldun could do was suggest treachery disguised as submission to make it seem like he did his mission right. He warns the party that they must stay away from Eltab at all costs. The worst thing that could happen is if Eltab is defeated. Calvin is interested in what he means. Khaldun says that killing Eltab will incur the Wrath of Demogorgon, the Prince of Demons. If Eltab is killed, Demogorgon will send fiends to hunt the party for the rest of their lives. At that note, Khaldun takes his leave.

The party takes what they need and prepares for the long journey. Kendrick gives the party their own carriage as guests of honor for this trip.

Flamerule 27th-Elasias 6th
The trip to Silverdale was an uneventful trip for most of the days. Scouts spotted orcs on the paths, but no movement to attack the moving army towards Silverdale. Kendrick had stated that his plan was to use Semian forces to take Silverdale and use Red Wizards to attack from the south as the Sembian armies attack from the north.

On the Night of Midsummer, Calvin overheard Lambert talking to Kendrick Selkirk. Lambert moved forward with the plan and let loose the power of Lathander. Night became day around the halfling an light shined on the young Overmaster as Lambert advised him to close his eyes. Lambert asked Kendrick to kneel as he touched his head. In a manner of seconds Kendrick stood up again looking confused. He woke up from his dream confused. Calvin was listening to this conversation from a distance.. Lambert told Kendrick what he was about to do, and told Kendrick what he did. The miracle was able to restore his old personality and his old memories. Lambert used the full power of the miracle to make it so that Kendrick did not lose sight of his actions or new memories planted by Tillenbirg, but made it so that Kendrick could decipher the difference between real memories and fake memories.

Calvin approached Kendrick and stated situation. Lambert was surprised to know that Tillenbirg has had this spell active on Kendrick since Mirtul. For several months, Kendrick has been an unused puppoet of the Red Wizard set to activate when Callahan was dethroned. Lambert mentions Tillenbirg's adjustments to memories and personality were slight. He had adjusted his personal faith in Sembia and changed his brain to give him an overly impulsive and overconfident personality. Kendrick knows great gratitude toward both Calvin and Lambert.

Calvin suggests a change in the plain. Kendrick decides that it is no longer a good idea to send Sembian troops to attack the arch fiend, but Calvin convinces him to deceive the Red Wizards into believing the original plan and let two enemies destroy each other. Kendrick agrees with the idea. He holds great contempt towards Tillenbirg for his manipulation. Kendrick will do his best to direct the armies away from the powerful fiends. He had originally planned team attacks, Kendrick will adjust the teams for specific targets.

The days and night until the army reaches Silverdale remain uneventful. Lambert remains close to Kendrick for advice. The change in Kendrick shows a greater insecurity for his actions and a need to be directed as he learns the right paths.

The night of the 6th the army arrives close to Silverdale. Kendrick has decided that he will take these forces by surprise. He will attack at night to throw their enemy off. Kendrick has prepared movements against the government buildings and the temple if necessary.

The army quietly approaches the dimly lit city at night. The plan is to overrun and outnumber an unprepared force. Kendrick Selkirk leads the teams himself towards the guards and initiates the strikes against the the warriors for the Church of Loviatar himself.

A concentrated groups of troops and Silver Ravens raid every government building killing and capturing people that fit the description of the people in Callahan's notes that took Silverdale under siege. The operations started as a surgical attack that became a bloodbath in the streets of Silverdale. The greatly outnumbered forces for the Church of Loviatar were far stronger in average than the Sembian soldiers in and the Silver Ravens. The leader of the group made his self present when he lit the night sky with a ferocious firestorm.

Eshkabel ran straight for the temple of Lathander. The rest of the party followed him to the temple as Eshkabel busted in through the doors. When Eshkabel made it inside he saw a man in dark armor and grizzled hair with an eye patch. His armor held a crest to Loviatar and he was sitting in the temple looking at Eshkabel. Ehskabel looked at this man and saw his precious Manifesto. This man had it in his hands. Ehskabel yelled to get his book bad immediately.

The man turned around and payed attention to Ehskabel. his demeanor was calm as he started to talk about this book. He thought it was an interesting read, but main "the foolish rantings of a madman." He threw the book on the floor and smirked. Eshkabel was stunned to see this, rage was building withing him.

When he did that, another voice called out to a man by the name Palar. The man on the chair looked back to see a wizard in black and purple robes covering his mouth. He introduced himself as the leader of this group. Palar became more interested at this point and stood up. Palar has wanted to talk to the leader of this group. He is curious why a cell of the Church of Loviatar would take Silverdale under siege. He also wanted to know who he was. Palar was slightly annoyed to know that this man knew him, but he did not know this person.

He looked at the book. "Good to know you have the Manifesto, though written by Cyricites, it predicts a great tragedy and the proper method to ignore its effects on your soul." He points to Eshkabel and acknowledges his part in the writing of this book as well as his master. This man knows about the origins of this book. Palar seems slightly angered to be ignored and demands to know who he is talking to. The man says that his name is Nooshnam. Palar laughs and says "Couldn't you find a better name for you than than your name backwards, Manshoon." Both Calvin's and Eustace's eyes go wide when they hear the name Manshoon.

Palar laughs a bit and it all comes to him. Palar in all of his wits could not figure out how and why people thought this group was the Neo-Zhentarim. No one in the group proclaimed it, but everyone that saw the group said it. Palar was also interested in why this group attacked Silverdale. Manshoon unravels his brilliant plan. He wished to fight the group called the Neo-Zhentarim with a group of a different religion of equal power. Manshoon chose to use the Church of Loviatar since he thought it would be easy to gain support against a strong Sharran presence down in Saerloon. Manshoon spread the rumor of the Palar being the leader to attract more members and the rumor that this was another sect of the Neo-Zhentarim to bring the actual Neo-Zhentarim to Silverdale so that Manshoon could absorb that organization to become the Zhentarim.

Palar was confused. "Why not simply attack the new organization called the Neo-Zhentarim? Why was all this necesary?" Manshoon describes the very fragile dichotomy of the Zhentarim. The presence of a two religions was the best for stable organization. One religion should be a defeated religion. Manshoon knew that the leader of the Neo-Zhentarim was a Banite, and he wanted another group not too similar to Bane to become the new second religion. Manshoon lost control of the Zhentarim when Bane was resurrected and Fzoul betrayed the forces of Cyric and took over the Zhentarim.

Palar laughs and calls it nonsense. It is clear to him that Manshoon is simply afraid of this man and he is too cowardly to fight him. Manshoon warns Palar that he is way over his head. Palar believes that he is safe. He knows that Manshoon needs him alive to be face of this organization. Palar states that he has already planned to defect form this group and he has already taken loyal followers with him. Manshoon smirks and says "now I really don't need you alive that much, you should watch your tongue, pitiful blackguard."

Around this time, Lambert run though the door to see all of his friends dead. He sees the party with Palar and Manshoon in the same room. He is stunned by the extent of evil in the temple. All he does is ask who is responsible for this horrible deed. Palar said that the group here is not responsible. Whoever killed these people were most likely assassins, not people wielding swords. Manshoon smiles and says that he is responsible. He laughs and says that he killed all of them himself. He continued to laugh saysing that he would kill all of them a hundred times only if he could watch him do it. Lambert closes his yes and has a serious expression. "There is much work to be done, but all that has happened, has not happened in vein." Lambert blesses the church as Ehskabel makes the first move to attack Palar.

The battle has started and Manshoon starts the fight by casting blasphemy. Palar realizes that though he does not value the book, other people do. He runs over and takes the book and begins to run away. Eshkabel curses his name and threatens him with the damnation of Cyric. Everyone in the party notices his rage as he wants nothing more than to kill Palar. The rest of the party including Lambert brace themselves for a fight against Manshoon. Manshoon splits three additional clones from his body and starts a systematic attack on the party. Palar takes the book and starts running away tot he edge of the temple. Ehskabel ignores Manshoon and chases Palar. The rest oft he party tries to hold Manshoon at bay. While the battle is going on. Lambert is being continuously struck by crossbow bolts.

In familiar tastes, Manshoon stops Palar by trapping him inside a force cage as his clones continue the attack on the party. Eshkabel never stops chasing him down. In a surprising fury of well aimed blows, Wein charges into Manshoon brings him to the brink of death. Manshoon's contingency plan activated as he teleports away cursing the man who damaged him. Palar is smarter than he was the last battle and activated his boots to teleport outside the force cage and continue running away. Calvin Ford Eustace and Wein continue fighting the clones that remain on the battle field slowly clearing them out. the eyes glow on the last clone as Manshoon curses each person there and grants the party one last gift and cast a firestorm through his last clone before it disappears. Lambert falls unconscious after this attack and Eustace is killed by the attack. Palar runs to a wall and teleports through the wall with his boots. Ehskabel curses his name and hits the wall. His his last bit of fury, he summons a comet fall right outside the edge of the temple.

Shortly after his rage, a Shade falls from the ceiling and looks at Lambert on the ground. Calvin Ford is healing him when the Shade tells Ehskabel that it is time to kill him. Calvin Ford is curious to know what he is talking. Ehskabel tries to tell Calvin Ford that Lambert is the enemy and that he needs to die. "Do what you have to do Eshkabel. I won't stop stop you, but I'll continue to do what I have to do." is said by Calvin Ford as he continue to heal Lambert. Eshkabel walks close to Lambert and sneers at him as he fired a disintegrate at him. Ehskabel knows that Lambert has a delay death up now and he continues to try and kills Lambert. Wein goes over to help Lambert and Eshkabel warns Wein that if he moves or helps Lambert that he will kill him. He looks at the Shade and tells him that if they move, kill them.

A brief moment, the shade looks over to the darkness and immediately falls over dead. Everyone is shocked as they see a kid in blue and black robes walks with a sword. the sword as an evil emanating aura that persists around the boy. His eyes are focuses, also demonic and his hair is disheveled. Ehskabel looks terrified as he calls out to Vinnrick. Vinnrick looks at Ehskabel and his face turns to rage. "You told him everything. "  Ehskabel tried to defend himself when Vinnrick interrupted him. "You don't follow either of us. You only chose the side of power because you fear for your pathetic life." he sneers at Ehskabel. "You're wrong, I have chosen my master" Eshkabel calls out the words "Sharran Temple" and teleports away. Calvin Ford and Wein look terrified.

Vinnrick walks up to Eustace and put the sword on the ground and closes his eyes as Eustace comes back to life. Vinnrick smiles and looks at Eustace and says, that by bringing him back, he can see what Eustace sees. He thanks Eustace for the information and tells him that he knows far more of Dario than Greymus. Vinnrick gets a twisted smile as he pick up his sword and walks slowly towards Lambert. Eustace runs by Vinnrick close to Wein and Calvin and right when Vinnrick gets to plunge the sword into Lambert's chest, Calvin teleports back to the Califomme manor and runs inside the door.

Vinnrick shrugs and sits for a moment before he leaves. The party mourns over Eshkabel's betrayal as they heal Lambert. Lambert becomes conscious and asks what happened. Calvin informs Lambert of the deeds. He is very surprised to hear that Vinnrick showed up. Lambert believed that Vinnrick had a form of respect for him, but he realizes that the Vinnrick that Calvin described is very little like the Vinnrick he met. Calvin states that Vinnrick demonic and ferocious. He was even more terrifying than Grahm. Lambert looks in shock to know that Calvin has met both Vinnrick and Grahm. Lambert briefly covers his meeting of Grahm and points out that is was almost exactly the opposite. Lambert does a prayer for all those that died. "Worry not about Eshkabel, no one is beyond redemption" Lambert says in a soft tone as Calvin decides to teleport everyone back to Silverdale.

Session 15: A pact between Fiends
Eshkabel instantly teleported back to the temple of Shar to find that the Sharran assassin that ran away from Duke Derkson's place. Eshkabel decided to see his children. His attempts to break the clerics prove a failure for now, but Ehskabel is patient that they will break in time. Eshkabel runs his mouth in the temple and demands a means to Innarlith. The clerics are reluctant to agree to his demands.

Ehskabel gets his trip to Innarlith's capitol. He asks the common folk to the whereabouts of Grahm. The peasant directs Eshkabel to a dark building set on a hill. this building is jet black and set up like a temple. Eshkabel enters the building to see several people walking in and out of the building. It looks like combination between a temple and a standard government building. As Eshkabel goes deeper, the floor appears to be a black marble with large gold statues of of other deities, all killed or defeated. Eshkabel approaches Grahm thrown where he sees a gold chair shaped like a castle to mimic the look of the Ultimate Throne.

Grahm sees Eshkabel and asks him how his mission went. Eshkabel states that he has captured and he is converting many of the people in the church of Lathander. Eshkabel reports that most of the group that was in Silverdale is dead. Ehskabel is sad to report that he does not have the Manifesto. Grahm sighs when Eshkabel reports on any bit of failure and asked if he pursued the man who had it. Ehskabel states that he gave up too quickly in pursuit of Palar. Eshkabel also makes mention that Manshoon is involved with Manifesto. Grahm thought he was dead, he sighs and asks if all of the group is dead. Ehskabel says that several members defected form the group with Palar. Grahm tells Eshkabel in a calm almost bored voice that both of his next objective remain with the remainder of the group.

Elasias 7th- 11th
The party rests the day moving as the army sets up, but mainly celebrates its lost Midsummer. Later on through the day, Kendrick walks up to the party to see if there are any losses. Calvin tells him that Ehskabel has left. Kendrick asks if he is an enemy, and Calvin says not to consider him an enemy yet. Kendrick says that a mysterious visitor said he was once part of the Silver Ravens who wanted to join your group. Everyone looks a little surprised and Kendrick shrugs as he walks over. A familiar voice to Calvin greet him as he sees Cygnus Feldrush approach the army. He looks a tad bigger and with better gear, but with the same happy drunk personality.

The morning of the 8th Kendrick does an extended role call to see who is going to fight against the cult. Karma walks up to Kendrick Selkirk. Eustace can plainly see that one of the figures in black around Khaldun is behind Karma leading him to Kendrick. Karma looks worried and says that he knows the paths to each of the camps off hand. Kendrick looks at him and smiles. He remembers that he was looking for him. Kendrick smiles only because he knows that he has Karma right where he wants him. He says that he might think of waving his sentence since he was basically pawn.

Kendrick start giving his plan. He will have regular armies go down to approach from the side as the he sends two elite teams to take down one of the main nobles and the general of the Eltab's demon army. The Red Wizards will approach from the south and and strike at Eltab himself. The plan is to let Tillenbirg and Eltab fight each other. A messenger comes to Kendrick and gives him news of Boxworth's death. A speak with the dead shows that Boxworth has been planned an assassination against Tillenbirg and he planned a small movement against him. Lambert makes the observation that this is most likely Tillenbirg using Mind Rape to cover his tracks. Kendrick says to be careful. There is a chance that Tillenbirg knows of the situation.

The march to the camps last for four days. Once the party is near the site, Kendrick orders the armies to stop. He walks off to give a speech to the armies. When he returns the armies walk beside by the parties. Kendrick has a group of Silver Ravens and Lambert by his side. Kendrick says that Karma will be the navigator, of your party. Karma, Albert Tillman, Eustace, Cygnus, Calvin and Wein set off soon after Kendrick's team rushes in.

Karma makes it clear that their objective is the general. There will be camps to cross before general Soltairus's camp. Karma insists that the party moves silently. Cygnus, is not used to moving silently, and Eustace's iron golem is not really meant for stealth mission either. While attempting to sneak around Albert Tillman trips after hearing Cygnus's horrible display of moving silently and his fall alerted a nearby orcish camp of their presence. The party then dispatched the units of an entire orcish camp. After dispatching them, the party continued to move through the camps.

A good amount of time later, the party spots a larger camp with cultists and well decorated orcs. Calvin Ford prepares his wants and does a long range artillery strike on the camp. The inside of the camp is in chaos as the orcs and the cultists looks for the targets. the party realizes that they are surrounded. It was clear that they did not do a good job sneaking and many forces surrounded the party.

This battle was far more difficult. An old guest from the last orc fights shows his face. On older looking orcish barbarian arrives to fight the party. The battle starts and Eustace and Albert scramble to heal the melees. Calvin is aware that the forces from the camp are running over to meet the ambush. The party must be able to fight the forces around them and still attack the far off forces before they arrive.

The general Soltairus is a Marlilith who appears in the middle to engage the party all at once. She found herself overwhelmed by the power of her enemies and failed to escape. One of the fiends tries to escape when one of the orcs in the camp strike him down.

This orc is dressed in decorated armor and he addresses the party in a formal manner. He introduces himself as Icthorac the Strong. Two other orcs appear. One looks very necrotic and the other has a stealthy appearance. Icthorac calls out to the stealthy orc and asks for report of the situation at Eltab's camp. He says that Red Wizards have invaded the camps reigning fire and death on the cultists fiends and orcs. The necrotic orc looks at their dead ally and points to the party. Icthorac pays no heed for his death. Those that killed him killed him in their own defense. Calvin is interested to know why the orcs are helping them. Icthorac simply states that the cult of Eltab has broken its deal wince the death of ambassador Talaeos. Ichtorac swears revenge against those that betray agreements. He follows his officers towards the camp. The party follows him reluctantly.

They see a scene of total carnage. The skies are filled with fire as Hellfire Wyrms fight in mid air against Balors. red Wizards are firing magic at fiends, and a lich is in the middle firing blasts at Eltab. Eltab is 13 foot orange fiend with two large circular eyes black eyes. He is large and muscular with large spikes going from his shoulders. He continuously walks toward Tillenbirg as his forces begin to surround the other Red Wizards. Alinard and DuCain both teleport away when they sense their inevitable defeat. Tillenbirg yells at the Red Wizards and orders them to fight. He looks beyond Eltab and sees the party. Tillenbirg yells to them to help him. The party remains motionless. Tillenbirg tries is trying to persuade the party to help him. Ichtorac and his two officers engage Eltab. Eltab speaks with a surprisingly clear voice as he acknowledges Icthorac's revenge. Ithorac is truly powerful, but only strong enough to delay the fiend. Both Icthorac and the stealty orc are killed and the necrotic orcs moves back to the party.

Tillenbirg knows that he is alone seeing Eltab charging at him. He knows that he only has one solution. He prepares a truly devastating spell and fires a horrible discolored blast at Eltab. This blast takes over his body and bring him to his knees. Tillenbirg believes he has won when Eltab crawls over and rips Tillenbirg in half. Nazzinagul, the necrotic orc seizes this opportunity to fire a polar ray shoots Eltab through the chest.

As soon as Eltab falls to the ground, Khaldun appears and has a horrible look on his face. Khaldun yells "You killed him?! I told you not to kill him.  You have incurred the wrath of someone far more powerful than Eltab.  Now we will all suffer the wrath of Demogorgon." Calvin says that they didn't kill him. Khaldun says that Demogorgon does not care. Everyone around him will be marked for life and hunted by fiends until they are killed.

When he mentions that, several demons appear. Two demons looks unique and two Balors appear. These demons state that everyone here will meet for an trial against he murder of a servant of Demogorgon. a wall appears around everyone as the unique fiends chant. Calvin Ford looks and tries to see who he can take with him. Khaldun says that running is pointless, but Calvin Ford does not want to wait to die. Cygnus offers to stay since he knows that Calvin Ford can only take three people. CAlvin Ford, Eustace, Wein, and Albert Tillman teleport away. Nazzinagul also teleports away. Khaldun, Karma and Cygnus are all teleported to Demogorgon's layer of the Abyss.

When they appear they see a huge fiend with two baboon heads tentacles and green fur across from them with several fiend close to him. Next to them they see a large red Devil with black horns with an extremely opulent robe and a ruby rod next to him. Demogorgon has a low terrifying voice. He demands compensation for the death of Eltab. He call out to Asmodeus and says that for the failure that he should have reign to eat those responsible for Eltab's death. Khaldun call out "The mission was impossible. How could you expect Eltab to go to your layer in submission." Demogorgon states "I never really expected him to submit. I wanted him here. And if he defied me, then I would get the pleasure of tearing to pieces myself." Khaldun retorts "Why tell me that he must arrive in submission if you did not expect?" Demogorgon demands that he punish Khaldun and the others for letting Eltab die.

Asmodeus retorts "Demogrgon, the truce called for one of my minions to do a mission for you. You have no authority over Khaldun or any of these people.  They belong to me." Demogorgon Screeches and Yells' the Truce is off!" The screech rings through everyones ears and and a mark of a baboon appears on everyone including the orc and the people that teleported away.  At that moment, Asmodeus hold up his Ruby Rod and a blue sphere of force goes around everyone in the Abyss and teleports them to Nessus, the 9th Circle of Hell.

Khaldun asks why he saved him for failure. Asmodeus smirks and looks at he the people he saved. "Dhansis, I never expected you to do pass this mission. As you said, it is technically impossible." Khaldun looks back "But he broke the truce." Asmodeus looks at Khladun stroking his devil beard saying "A truce with an arch fiend is as concrete as a wet piece of tissue paper." Khaldun asks why make an agreement if there was no chance of him following it. "Simple Khaldun, it is all a matter of the illusion of peace. The only reason to make a truce to stop him from doing an anticipatory strike against me.  I knew that he would break it whenever he wanted, but I know that setting up a truce would make his moves easier to follow.  I was merely waiting for a beneficial cause to act against the terms of the truce." Khaldun bows to his master's brilliance.

"What of us now, my master." Khaldun says bowing to Asmodeus. Asmodeus says that the Ruby Rod's powers have made everyone here invisible to Demogorgon's forces. He says that Khaldun will have another mission. He wants Khaldun to follow the children of Cyric. Khaldun also mentions the actions of Tiamat. Asmodeus is not interested in Tiamat and suggests that Khaldun watch his greed when pursuing the behelits. He speaks of two that he is interested in, his mission is to follow them and see what he can learn from them. He tells everyone that he has saved their lives. All he asks in return is one favor. This favor can be simple or immense. Asmodeus will ask at anytime he choses. Asmodeus waves farewell as he activates the Ruby Rod to bring everyone back to Toril. Khaldun is there and says to be thankful. Asmodeus has spared everyone there today. Listen to his words; now, you belong to him. Khaldun tells Karma that he will no longer live in Sembia. After that he bids farewell to Cygnus.

Calvin Ford, Eustace, Albert and Wein appear in front of the Califomme manor. soon after they appear, a unique looking devil holding a trident appears in front of them. Eustace is able to recognize him as Spark Hunter, the loyal and powerful devil minion of Asmodeus. He gives an abbreviated version of Asmodeus's message to the party at the Califomme manor. They are confused, and only seconds later, Spark Hunter leaves. Around this time, Calvin Ford decides that it would be a good idea to meet Kendrick Selkirk back at the scene of the battle.

When they arrive, Cygnus is already there explaining what happened to Kendrick and Lambert. Lambert is in disbelief that Cygnus has seen the king of evil himself and he stands before him now. Calvin relays a similar message. Lambert says "The devil has spared your life for the cost of your souls."

Pereus Von Eshkabel
Elasias 8th

Shortly after being reassigned to get the Manifesto back Eshkabel decided to scry Palar to see if he could learn his location. Eshkabel knew that it was a far shot to be able to scry him, but he was able to see through his eyes. Ehskabel saw a an abandoned temple with no visible clerics. He saw familiar dressed people with Palar. Ehskabel knew that these are the people that betrayed Manshoon. Eshkabel left for the Sharran temple to speak to Ballaric. Without Char Fek, Eshkabel needed a new Sharran assassin to travel with him. Ballaric heard the name Palar and agreed to finding him. He left to the underground to find of his finer men to accompany them if they wished to get the book and kill Palar.

Ballaric and Ehskabel had no major plan. They did not know the location, but they knew where Palar was, and both Eshkabel and Ballaric knew they were strong enough to defeat Palar. Before they left Eshkabel though of putting Palar in a force cage, yet against, except to cast a dimensional lock this time so that he could not use his books to escape. Ballaric smiled at the plan and he knew that he was capable of casting force cage.

Eshkabel left with five other people that looked like assassins, shadow dancers, and priests to fight Palar. Once they teleported, all the people at the temple were surprised except Palar. Palar did not fail the save on purpose, but once he failed he was expecting someone to arrive. Palar was relieved that it was Eshkabel and not Manshoon.

Palar was sitting down and he requested a deal. he spoke in a very calm manner twiddling his thumbs as he tried to draft a deal for the book. Ballaric hated the idea of making a deal with horrid Loviatar scum. Eshkabel was far more patient and demanded silence. Palar asked that the Sharrans would do an assassination job. Palar made reference of a temple of the Triad and he mentioned the Sharshins there. Palar wanted Eshakebl and Ballaric to kill them.

Eshkabel told Palar that he would gladly do this for his book, and his services would make Palar thanked and rewarded by him and his master. Palar thought that it sounded irregular for Cyric, but Eshkabel spoke with such clarity that he believed him. Palar and Eshkabel motion to the deal when Eshkabel makes a quick look at Ballaric and Ehskabel casts a quicken dimensional lock as Ballaric casts the force cage. Ballaric turns invisible as the other members get ready for combat.

Palar looks around him and curses a great deal that he is once again found in a force cage. Palar looks and sounds more threatened at this point. Palar threatens that if anything happens to him or his men, he will rip the book apart. Eshkabel attempts to convince Palar that it is he that holds the cards. Palar keeps the same threat. Ehskabel says that he can just mend the book if he has to. Palar becomes desperate and says he will even eat the book if he has to. Eshkabel becomes inpatient, but takes a deep breath and promises him a reward once more if he cooperated. Palar is no fool, he had already been betrayed. This time he wants Ballaric to lay down the force cage and Eshkabel and the rest of them to lay back as he takes out the book. Palar pulls the book out of a bag of holding and shows Eshkabel his book. He motions Ballaric to let down the force cage. Ballaric reluctantly complies, and Palar steps back to set the book down. Eshkabel activates true site to see if the book is real and he looks at the book. It seems real, but several of the pages are missing. Palar yells "escape plan one!" as several of the people around him cast darkness and zone of silence. Other cast images, but Eshkabel sees through it immediately and chases them outside the temple.

Everyone is poised for combat as Palar hold his sword up for combat now. Palar calms down and suggests a new deal of sorts. Eshkabel is reluctant to a deal, but both of them are growing tired of the situation and the constant betrayals. Palar says to have both groups step back without being armed and without readying spells. If they can do that, then a deal will be made with both parties 30 feet apart. Eshkabel agreed. Palar yelled out to one of his men to throw him his bag of holding. Palar took out four pages and left them 15 feet between the two for Eshkabel to look. Palar waited patiently for Eshkabel to confirm that these were the missing pages he was looking for.

When Eshkabel confirmed the truth, bu then he heard a chilling voice. Vinnrick appears from the shadows and gets a crooked smile as he sees Eshkabel's face. From the side of Sharrans, Vinnrick holds his sword up and utters "Soul Steal" and all of the people furthest to the back drop to their knees. Palar looks at him and demands to know what is going on. Eshkabel tries to escape with Ballaric, but Vinnrick counters the spell. Ballaric is almost frozen in fear and puts a wall of force between Eshkabel and Vinnrick and Eshkabel does another word of recall to get back to the temple.

They made it back, but the other Sharrans were left behind and killed by Vinnrick. After they were dead, Vinnrick merely walked past Palar back into the woods. Palar was too frozen with fear to respond at that point. He was not sure if he would live or die after coming across with Vinnrick. When Vinnrick was about to leave Palar mustered the ask what he wanted... Palar had confirmed that he had someone copy all the text in the book if that is what he wanted. Vinnrick turned his head and simply replied that he was not interested in the book. He knew its context already.

Eshkabel returned back to the Sharran temple with the book and believing that there was a good chance that Palar and his men would be dead.

Calvin Ford
Elasias 14th- 23rd 

On the trip back to Ordulin Kendrick Selkirk had talked to Calvin Ford and Eustace promising them a reward for their great service to Sembia. Lambert had requested nothing, but KEndrick insisted that he rebuilt the temple of Lathander in Silverdale and enacted a large temple in Ordulin for the great service done by those in his name. Lambert did not deny Kendrick his request, but he made it clear that no such action was necessary. Calvin Ford and Eustace were both awarded the opportunity to have a chance to be appointed in the Sembian Merchant Council. Calvin Ford denied the request after all he has been through.

Kendrick asked if there was anything he could do for Calvin after his great contributions towards Sembia, Calvin asked only for a good place to stay. Kendrick had several free estates after the loss of merchant council members and decided that he could have one of their estates in the middle of Ordulin. Calvin accepted the offer.

Kendrick soon stated that he would leave to have talks with those in Cormyr as a result of the war and the actions that took place within the Sembian government. After the arrival at Ordulin Calvin wished him luck on his journey and told Calvin that he could use the Silver Ravens as movers into his new house.

Eustace Califomme
Elasias 24th

After returning to Ordulin, Eustace had rejecting Kendrick's invitation to the Sembian Merchant Council. Like Calvin, he wanted to avoid the troubles of politics. Eustace took a sigh of relief and looked back at his personal objective. After Kendrick gave his message about leaving, Eustace thought about the humunculus that killed his father once more. No one knew where it was, but could anyone find it. Eustace remembered Khaldun saying in his lair that he was truly gifted at tracking people and objects.

Eustace left to buy a scroll of sending and ask Khaldun for a job opportunity. Khaldun replied quickly and agreed to the idea of business. Within minutes Eustace heard a knock on his door. Someone in black robes with brown hair was at the door. He assured Eustace that it was indeed Khaldun. Khaldun entered and removed his disguise to show Eustace that he was telling the truth. He asked Eustace what he could do. Eustace mentioned the humunculus that killed his father and told him about this creature. He wanted Khaldun to find this creature. Khaldun was interested in business, but Eustace had no idea how much Khaldun often charges. Khaldun started rattling numbers together and came out to a price of 650,000 gold for the mission. Khaldun did say that as a result of the mission from before, his lord got the best possible outcome. This would make Khaldun subtract the price of the artifact he originally wanted from the Blue Orchid from the cost of his services. Khaldun changed the price down to 300,000 gold for the use of his services.

Khaldun said that it would take him one day of analyzing the evidence of his existence and talking to people that know him to learn a good amount o information and track his location, but finding the evidence would most likely take an additional four days. Khaldun assured Eustace that he would have the information he was looking for within five days. He asked Eustace to see if there was anything else he wanted from this mission. Eustace said that he only really wanted to learn the location, and perhaps about what this humunculus was.

Elasias 29th

Eustace received another knock at his door to see someone in brown robes with long blond hair and very pointy ears at his door. Khaldun assured Eustace that it was he. He entered the house to gag and take something out of his throat to lower his voice, and remove the wig and take off makeup and stuff off his ears to reveal half elven ears.

Khaldun first said that its location is just south of Cormanthor in the Dalelands. Khaldun marked a map and gave it to Eustace to show him the exact and quickest way to get there. Khaldun provided a spell to give Eustace a mental image of the place. He told Eustace that the he should be careful around humunculus. Khaldun gave Eustace notes he was able to retrieve on the humunculus. Khaldun managed to speak with MeLuis to figure out information on this creature for Eustace. He said that while doing the original research for this being, both Jonas and Dario had moved to different planes and studied many creatures that were believed to be abominations. Jonas's notes reveal that he knew that they had a spark of the divine, but they did not have the blessing of Ao. Khaldun looks down and shows Eustace that his notes also reveal that Jonas must have intimate knowledge of ancient Netheril scrolls. In an attempt to recreate the the magicks necessary to produce a spell like Karsus's avatar, Jonas tried applying the concept of recreation and used other scrolls as a reference to find a method to its creation. Khaldun states that this area of the notes must have been a combined effort.

Khladun knows a great deal about the creatures and properties, but Eustace takes a quick look, and though he cannot recreate Jonas's procedure, he points out lines that Khaldun did not notice himself. Khaldun marvels at the prodigy that Jonas must have been to develop this kind of results with the life span of a normal human. Khaldun changes topic form the notes to the experience of being close to this being. He states that he did not actually meet this being in caution. The being appeared to have tremendous power, and it had the love of all the people around it whenever it performed any action. Khaldun did not see it cast any spells, but it was clear had abilities that were beyond normal mortal powers. Since this humunculus did kill its master, Khaldun decided not to want to test how it would act in an awkward or stressful situation. Khaldun warned Eustace that this if he pursues this thing, that he should not go alone.

Eustace says that he no longer knows what he is going to do when he sees the humunculus, but he wants to be prepared for anything. Khaldun tells him not to die, or at least not until you can grant Asmodeus his favor. Khaldun bids farewell and closes the door behind him. Eustace gives Khaldun his gratitude and starts looking for help.

Sembian Merchant Council
After the insurrection failed, many seats were open to the Sembian Merchant Council. Kendrick Selkirk invited the people that helped save Sembia, but they were reluctant to take the position after all the problems that happened for the people on the council. Several people were accepted into the Merchant Council to help fill in the empty spots. Another member of the Foxmantle noble family came form Selguant to replace Drelenore after his passing. Albert Tillman accepted Duke Derekson's role with Bartholomew's recommendation. Bartholomew also recommended a half elf women by the name of Illera. She had worked with him against insurrection since the beginning, and she has been a valuable asset to the movement. More so than even Albert Tillman, she had the charisma and skills that would be expected of something in the Sembian Merchant Council. She was nearly turned down for being a half elf in Sembia, but Kendrick did not downplay his racism against elves so much, but he awarded who aided him against the Sharrans an opportunity to gain a ruling position in Sembia.

Kendrick left to have talks with the leader and other diplomats of Cormyr. During those talks, Kendrick redeclared war on Cormyr. Kendrick knew that Cormyr was partially responsible for acting with the Sharrans, and he saw their actions against him as a continuous act of war. His main adviser, Lambewrt, advised him with Bartholomew that Sembia was not ready for war, but Kendrick could not be swayed. He believed that with Jonas's technology and Eustace developing a new land artillery, that his army would crush the Purple Dragons. What would soon follow would be a great divide in the support for the war against Cormyr. Most people in Sembia did want war, but many believed that it was too soon after the blockades and embargoes for Sembia to begin another war.

What will happen next are the links between the end of Vindication of the Merchant Nation and the ties to Fourth Edition Sembia.

(TBD)

Themes
I did not make my campaign to be particularly theme based, but if you look deep in there, some of my personal moral fiber does kind of rub off on the idea of a righteous character. Though in the end, evil wins the day, there is clearly a sign of victory in humility and patience.

A conservative revolution to a corrupt status quo was among another theme. Sembia was to represent a government with hidden oppressions. Most people did not feel restriction I designed to have set in the government, but relevant to US history in the Cold War era, and more clearly noted in several dictatorial regimes, the concept of assimilation people to a conformist culture to promote a national image. The pro American movement of the 1950s done by a committee to promote our culture. This movement was a similar mind set as any state to promote nationalism in an idealogical warfare. I imagined Miklos to be a very Machiavellian man as I tried to portray most of the politicians in my campaign.

Though Sembia is not a democracy, I kind of implemented a pro democracy standing on the philosophies of the characters. Mass deception for believed sense of good was looked down upon by the more righteous NPCs and clearly looked down upon by the PCs as well.

Aside from that there were no strong inclination of themes in this campaign. Albert Tillman's goals were the theme. The PCs were not good, and though they acted in the best interest of Sembia and were moral a good amount of the time, it was clear that there was no moral guidance that really decided what Calvin Ford or Eustace was going to do (Especially not Eshkabel). Since most the actions were based on logic, and the story was more character based, the themes that emerged can be pointed out by anyone.

Criticisms
It is early, but if you can say something that might make me change a bad habit early on; I will grudgingly thank you.


 * People often say an artist is his own biggest critic. I am sure I'm not the only person who has some kind of gripes, but it is still early.
 * I often write more than I say. I tend to forget some of the dialog that I originally plan to say.
 * I am not very eloquent with my words. If anyone spots things like typo or grammar errors, I'd appreciate if you corrected it.  I write a lot here, and I know I don't proof read it enough.  Since I am working at school a lot of the time, I don't spend time going over this five times like I should.
 * User:bwh says: I did a bit of clean-up, structurally, but I'd go through with a fine-tooth comb and do some judicious slashing. It's easy to look at these enormous paragraphs and think "Too long; didn't read." At the very least, break each paragraph down into manageable chunks.  Also, the wiki has a built-in dictionary; use it to correct non-Faerunian words.
 * User:bwh says: the wiki is a supplemental reference, not a DM'ing tool. If you don't mention it in-session, it either wasn't important or can wait.
 * David Jaramillo I like the tune-ups. Some of the paragraphs are beasts. I will work on that, but I have lots of school work and I need write my entry quickly or else I forget the details.  One of my problems is that I do not always use Firefox.  I make lots of typos and mispell words when I am not thinking.  At the moment, I am not going to spend the time to write this much and proof read it, but if I see a red squiggle line, I won't have to look for typos or mispellings. (I didn't know that until I wrote this message.)

The second comment is a problem, but I disagree with your approach. The problem is that necessary hints and plot devices that are only revealed as deatails are things that are cut out. It makes more sense to me to write up what should have happened if I missed a few words, and perhaps to mention it again during the next session. Usually the differences are slight, but can make a difference if read. The only real example of this was the council meeting in session 1. I actually think that it is easier to understand what happened by reading the wiki rather than being hearing me do it in session. Having 10-15 people talking about all the issues with each other gets confusing without a noticeable difference between voices or any kind of visual cues. It becomes necessary to make these things more clear by writing everything that I scripted to happen, even if it didn't happen. I am aware that I need to be careful doing this. I do know that I should not write a difference that could possibly change a decision that the PC would have made if he or she knew the difference. I hope that in the future that there is no inconsistency between the what I saw and what I write.

Miscellany
Keith wins. After long months of trying to pitch the idea of the Shackled Pig, I gave in. Neenan has avoided using this name throughout the duration of three campaigns, but I couldn't help it. I created a small upcoming chain owned by Shakkal-da-Baccon. The idea was that they would slaughter the animals right there, and that they would sell mainly pig based products.

Sorry Neenan.

'''YEAH BABY! I own DND real-estate!!!''' --- Keith

Eshkabel On the Morning of Kythorn the 12th: "These pancakes are positively divine. Hail Syrup!!"

Thanks Keith, that is one of best quotes I have ever heard.

Final Fantasy Tactics+ Return of the Jedi(with a hint of Revenge of the Sith and Empire Strikes Back)= Vindication of the Merchant Nation

I only sort of realized to a degree how easily my campaign fits of the mold with Star Wars characters. Markaedus Callahan= Emperor(Senator) Palpatine Duke Derekson= Darth Vader Albert Tillman= Luke Skywalker

There are many differences, but the element of trust and persuasion between Callahan and Derekson shows a similar light to what happened in Revenge of the Sith. The political setting is partially a product of my education, but really more in homage of Final Fantasy Tactics. When people were praising the great story and loving Final Fantasy VII, I was stacking the extra hours on Final Fantasy Tactics.

Parodies
Personally, I am not sure if such a thing existed in the NY campaigns, but thanks to mainly me and Keith, they became a large proponent to our experience in PA sessions. These parodies had their humble start during Swordpoints of the Sea Hook when I had Senten own a "Red Wizards Rule" poster to the child friendly purple dragon that convoy slain with the help of Corrin's party... or the other way around.

Parodies have evolved since then and have had far more influence. Neenan actually changed the name of one of his character from Urlon to Burlon because of the greatness of our parodies.

I was afraid that without me as a player that the parodies would not be present, but I was wrong. From simple parodies like having PCs forget the names of NPCs to spin off ideas.

Giving the dreaded Szass Tam firing Tillenbirg for watching Spongebob Squarepants yelling the infamous "Your Fired!" as if he had a quadruple chin.

Perhaps the greatest parody thus far, the misadventures of Eshkabel and Grahm. Not much can beat Grahm having Eshkabel fight mummies and losing his arm to get into Larloch's lair to replace his secret plans tomake him buy Grahm a box of Blue Berry Eggos. The ideas that ran through our heads help build the memories of a campaign that sometimes compare to the memory of the campaign itself. Parodies have done a lot to the life and enjoyment of PA DnD campaigns, and I believe it deserved its honorable mention in my campaign.

Unanswered Questions
Why were those orcs there in the first place? Answer: Icthorac came to Sembia following the trail of Thomas Smith who was believed to be responsible for the death of his second in command, Croznoc.

What was Illera's real purpose for acting with Rubbin Kaizer and Bartholomew Talendar? Answer: She acted in Sembia for a long time to get lobbying force and gain useful information so that she could eventually join th merchant council.

Is Gomand Pusk coming back? Answer: Unknown, as third regent of the Gleaners, he is an important tool to an interplanar and planetary orgqanization.

How does Khaldun really know Gomand Pusk? Answer: Dhansis was a rogue member of the Gleaners that Gomand corrupted into robbed joining him rob the vault of the Gleaners.

Who brought Mirabeta back to life? Answer: It was a plot brought about by Larloch and the Champions to take Sembia under Sharran command to use its military force to aid the Innarlith.

What foreboding tragedy does the Manifesto predict? Answer: Mavarick's prophecy was was the Spell Plague, and he had found solutions that would help users of the arcane and divine magics live through the spell plague.

What did Palar do with the Manifesto? Answer: He copied the text in the Manifesto since the book was not magical, but people were interested in its context.

What did Mirabeta talk about with the Lord of Loss? Answer: The Lord of Loss was second in command of the operation, and they were talking about the how the Loviatarans would be dealt with.

Why did the Lord of Loss abandon Mirabeta? Answer: It was clear to the Lord of Loss that Mirabeta was not completely faithful to the cause and had planned on betraying the Champions for her own gain.

Is this the last that the party heard of Gururai? Answer: Unknown, Gururai's mind is an enigma, and after revealing himself to Eustace, no one really knows when he will strike again.