You are the Silver Claw. The most prestigious cell of Shady Characters at the disposal of The Empire of Rutgar. Your mission assignments have included assassinations, covert government coup initiations, and countless scouting missions over years of service to Rutgar. Emperor Ti’Dakra has treated you well and your station is elite; you dine among the nobles and dukes of the Empire on regular basis. Your guild hall is grand and ornate in its décor, and you have access to the grand armories of the Empire. Ti’Dakra however, is also infamous for his cruelty and expansionist ideals. Rutgar has succeeded in conquering many neighboring territories in its recent expansion, however, the mountainous Dwarven Nation of Dursdale has managed to resist Empiric takeover. The ongoing war with Dursdale possessed Ti’Dakra in an almost fiendish way. He never slept, staying up all night to review battle plans and send orders to his generals. His body grew weak, the one conflict in his life he could not win was sapping his strength and killing him. One fateful day, his heart gave out.

The Empire was thrown into a state of leaderless chaos. Ti’Dakra, who had no heirs, had left no indication as to who his successor would be. In a suspiciously easy race, Count Di’Jaza rose to the throne. As the most advanced intelligence gathering agency in Rutgar, The Silver Claw discovered a trail of bloodshed and missing persons in the rise of Di’Jaza. To make matters worse, Di’Jaza is a paranoid man. His trust in the Silver Claw has waned in recent weeks. He sends the cell on fewer and fewer missions, relying instead on Rutgar’s ruthless Dreadguard squadron. Animosity finally came to a flash point during a military meeting regarding the ever pressing matter of the Dursdalian guerrillas. Di’Jaza has set his mind to razing every town in Dursdale to ash in full force. Such an act could inspire resistance in countless Rutgar controlled provinces. The Silver Claw protested profusely, and for the first time in your service to Rutgar, you were dismissed from the meeting. Di’Jaza has since invited The Silver Claw to the annual Golden Talon Ball, perhaps as an apology? Your absence at following strategy meetings suggests something else may be afoot…

Session 01 October 10, 2020

• Sent on a quest to a Library with restricted access in order to learn more about Da'Jaza's link with giant creatures
• Hellhound quote: "Before we eat you, may we ask you a question, if you answer we will make your death quick… What plane is this?"
• Crossed the city without being caught, entered the sewers and found our way to the secret entrance to a dungeon leading to the library.

• Room with a seemingly decorative black dragon statue Followed other path crossed a pit with spikes to enter a room with a Mimic in it.

  • Yyytr used freedom of movement to escape the mimic and the vapor trap in the room
  • Zandirath used fly to cross over the pit

• After leaving the Mimic and the trap we continued along to a room and upon entering the room, a portion of the roof collapsed. Burying Zimkar

  • Zilgax had landed above causing some of the roof to cave in
• Yyytr went up to investigate, and found an eye-patched guy riding Zilgax who distributed wanted posters of us to the crowd gathered around.
• We continued deeper, as the cave in (mostly) blocked the path backwards, the path diverged into a north and south path, the south path had a form of trap (detected by Yyytr) consisting of two runes written in Draconic that would trigger based on proximity.

• Yyytr proceeded through the walls past the trap to find another room with a statue of a woman bending down to drink water,

  • There is an inscription at it's feet, written in Dwarven:

"My thirst is great, though my cup be late, my blood the others ate…"

• Yyytr attempts to memorize the inscription

• The party decided to go to the northern room to explore before trying to address the riddle

  • In this room there is another statue with metal hands tightly grasping a crystal goblet.
  • The hand holding the crystal goblet is damaged, corroded by an acid (detected by Zandirath)
  • The other hand holds a metal book, just part of the statue
• Zandirath cast acid splash to corrode the rest of the hand and collect the crystal goblet
• Party then went back south towards the other room, Yyytr summoned a pony Albert to cross the runes, at which point a wall of blades diced Albert into many pieces
• Amorynth was also downed by the Wall of Blades and the party decided to collect blood from his robes to place in the goblet :)

• In the southern room there is a small hallway leading west, the entrance to which is covered by a pressure plate.

  • At the end of the hall there is a room with a giant metal snake statue
  • There is a pressure plate under the snake which triggers acid to spray out of the snake's throat
  • Yyytr collected two vials of acid from the snake to make enough for 2 doses.
• Zimkar first placed the goblet in the statues hands, but after nothing happened proceeded to poor the blood into the mouth of the statue, once again to no effect.
• Zandirath finally sprayed acid down the throat of the statue and we heard a snap from within the statue causes the door opposite it to slide open
• In the room there is a hand shaped pattern with runes around it

• In this ornate looking room, there are two guards with their backs to us, four torches light the area, there are four pedestals with books on them

  • The two guards were assassinated quietly and the light in the room begins to dim
  • We hear a voice in our heads speak loudly:

"Secrets have seen the light, these books will grant you some of the secrets you will soon need when you've invested the time to read them return them here. I'll keep your transgressions here a secret."

Books of Vecna are titled:

1. A Brief History of Ra'Dulra and the First Age
2. The Dawn of the Second Age
3. Artifacts of the First Age
4. The Legend of the Tyrant

• Upon touching the books the lights in the room fade and we hear the voice of Vecna instructing us to read them and then return them here, 'we will need the knowledge'
• When we remove the books from their pedestal four perfect illusions take their place
• The party disguised themselves as guards and headed up to the library above

Session 02 October 21, 2021

• Upon reaching the top of the stairs we came across a locked gate, after several attempts Zimkar manages to pick the lock and proceed.
• The gate gave way to the back of a cleaning closet that looked seldom used.
• Opening the door we see a reading room of the library with several book cases lining the walls. There is a guard rotation even within the library and one patrols this room regularly.
• After searching the adjacent bookshelf, Zimkar finds a book and stashes it in his bag
• Zandirath enters the room and is IMMEDIATELY heard and has to bluff (successfully) to the guards saying he needed to use the bathroom.
• Yyytr then transforms into a Puffin to sneak into the room
• Amorynth then sneaks into the room and stashes another book in his bag after rifling through one of the shelves
• Zandirath then finds another book and a scroll written in Gnomish
• Yyytr finds a book "The Reign of Dragons" and Amorynth sneaks over to collect it.
• The Guard rotation appears to be about once a minute.
• Yyytr then found a small book (seems very important) tucked away in a small corner

• As we attempt to head out of the library through the tunnel we hear a load sound from above and decide not to continue this way after all.
• Upon reaching the room where Vecna's books are on display

Session 03 November 8, 2021

• After dispaching the last remaining guard, the group decides to exit back through the library
• As continue through the library we come across the Durnbury pit, were fights were staged between various monsters to be studied by wizards and sorcerers
• Upon leaving the library we see a scene of chaos people running through the streets bloodied.
• As Yyytr flew to scout out whether the safe house was still safe, he saw a tall blue spiked demon looking creature surrounded by the dead bodies of several guards and villagers.
• After reporting back the crew decides to leave the city and head off into the wilderness.
• We decide to head deep into the forrest (covering our tracks behind us) to escape any detection. While walking Yyytr describes the creature he saw earlier and Zandirath recognizes it as a barbed devil

• As the group rests and waits to heal they begin to read the books they acquired in the library.

  1. Yyytr reads "The Dawn of the Second Age"
  2. Zimkar reads "A Brief History of Ra'Dulra and the First Age"
  3. Zandirath reads "Magic of the Silvertongue"
• The next day Yyytr prepares and heals the party back to full HP

• The party continues to read more books

  1. Zandirath reads "Artifacts of the First Age"

Session 04 December 5, 2020

• When the party wakes they hear the distinctive sound of a dragon's beating wings, about a 1/4 mile to the west.

  • The wing beats sound labored as though it is carrying a heavy load.
• Zandirath casts Mage's private Sanctum to prevent scrying while Yyytr casts Hide Campsite

• Zilgax comes into view carrying a (football shaped) metal vesile with metal ribs which extend far out from the sides of the cylinder. And is painted in the colors of Rootgar

  • The machinery is extremely large with the outline of a large door (loading ramp sized) in the front with slits lining the bottom.
• As he flys closer to the party's camp his eyes scan the landscape

• Suddenly Vilgax releases the vessel it falls to the ground and as it falls the metal ribs spring outwards like the legs of a spider.

  • As it lands the front door opens and a squadron of dreadguard file out.
• Vilgax tells the dreadguard 'Fan out and head towards the abandoned mine shaft'
• As the dreadguard spread out in groups of 2, the party decides to hide in between the mineshaft and the advancing squadron being careful to remain hidden.
• Yyytr summons two snakes south west of the party, one of which is noticed by the dreadguard.
• The party waits for two of the dreadguard to pass by and Zimkar strikes the bow weilding dreadguard killing him and simultaneously Zandirath casts Dominate Person on the second of the pair.
• Zandirath then notices Algoth Ru begin to cast Detect Magic

Session 05 January 18, 2021

• Round 2

  • DM: The party makes mandatory perception checks at the top of the round, as the party looks around at Faraz Arrod a ruthless half-orc wielding a falcion. He points the falchion menacingly,tThis prompts a will save from the whole party, Zandirath rolls an effective 22 but still fails (-2 on attack rolls, saving throws, ability checks, skill checks). The dreadguard advance, not noticing the Emporer Cobras. As one of the dreadguard passes Ssssskaa, he is bitten and grappled. Amorynth signs to the group asking whether they should try to fight, Zandirath sheepishly signs back "I guess" He then proceeds to shoot his bow. The group decides that Algoth Ru's detect magic will give away the position of the most powerful magic object, and thus they decide to keep on the move
  • Zimkar: moves back and out of the circle behind Yyytr's snakes
  • Zandirath: Moves back out of the detect magic zone, instructs his dominated minion to move back as well, and casts Ice storm on Algoth Ru and Farax Arrod dealing 15 bludgeoning damage and 6 cold damage
  • Yyytr: casts another Ice Storm this time to the south, centered around the dreadguard dealing 12 bludgeoning damage and 8 cold damage. He also instructs one Emporer Cobra to strike the closest dreadguard wielding a bow, this deals 19 damage while the other moves closer

• Round 3

  • DM: Algoth Ru Casts a Fireball centered around the two Cobras, hitting three dreadguard and Zimkar Amorynth retreats back towards the camp and shoots Algoth. Several of the Dreadguard advance toward Yyytr and Ssssskaa, and one finishes off the Cobra
  • Zimkar: Retreats back toward the camp and stabs the closest dreadguard dealing 23
  • Zandirath: Fires a Lightning Bolt (taking a OA in the process which misses) striking a dreadguard, Faraz and Algoth
  • Yyytr: Summons two Cyclops, they both use once per day automatic critical and charge Faraz, one confirms the critical dealing 36 damage, and the other hits, Faraz appears near death. Meanwhile, Ssssskaa constricts around his grappled opponent. Some archers then turn and attack the Cyclopses and others attack Yyytr

• Round 4

  • DM: Faraz retreats from the Cyclopses and takes two OAs (one of which hits) dealing 15 damage, enough to kill Faraz. Algoth fires another Fireball striking both Zimkar and Zandirath dealing 40 damage, however both succeed their reflex saves. Meanwhile, Amorynth fires his bow twice at a Dreadguard. The Dreadguard advance again towards Sssssskaa dealing heavy damage
  • Zimkar: Retreats, being almost dead towards the far east portion of the forrest
  • Zandirath: Fires his bow at Algoth dealing 3 damage, and retreats toward the south-east, and hides
  • Yyytr: Orders one of his Cyclopses to charge Algoth, hitting and dealing 25 damage, while the other attacks a nearby dreadguard archer but misses. Ssssska constricts its target dealing 13 damage. Yyytr himself then throws two ice spears at nearby Dreadguard
• The group hears off in the distance the sound of Vilgaxes wings
• The group also hears a voice which we do not recognize shout "Fire Away!"
• To our rear we see a large airship with a catapult mounted to it, we see dwarves moving around atop the airship, directing its fire toward the dreadguard
• Vilgax approaches from the west and appears to be carrying the same dreadguard drop ship from earlier

• Round 5

  • DM: As Algoth reaches for a healing potion, the Cyclops in combat receives an OA and and is able to drop Algoth Amorynth fires his bow at a dreadguard and is able to kill them
  • Zimkar: Moves towards the dreadguard attacking Yyytr
  • Zandirath: Fires another Lightning Bolt striking three Dreadguard, two succeed their reflex saves and one is killed
  • Yyytr: Ssssskaa attacks a dreadguard killing him in the process. One Cyclops moves forward to attack the dreadguard currently attacking Ssssskaa KBC. The other Cyclops attacks a remaining dreadguard, criting him….. KBC. Lastly the remaining Emporer Cobra attacks a dreadguard dealing 19 damage
  • The group notices the airship land, and a dwarven voice calls out saying "Climb aboard!"
  • Amorynth Bolts towards the airship, Zimkar climbs the ladder to the top of the airship and is greated by a burly dwarf who greets him saying "Welcome Assassin." Zandirath climbs aboard the airship and is greated with "The snobby caster, welcome." Yyytr begins climbing aboard the ship and orders Ssssskaa to attack, biting the head off of the dreadguard
  • After taking a few pot shots at Amorynth, the dreadguard leave and the party joins Dursgard on the airship

Session 06 January 29, 2021

• The flag of Dursdale flies above the airship, the dwarves hustle and bustle about the airship
• We hear Vilgax roar and bellows "Oh you seek a battle among the clouds, I shall honor your request"
• Under the arm of one of the dwarves Zandirath spots a spell book
• We hear a harsh and gravely voice yell to us to operate the ballista

• Round 1

  • DM: Amorynth prepares to fire second ballista. Zandirath prepares the ballsita for firing
  • Yyytr: Double moves toward the ballista
  • Zimkar: Double moves toward the ballista
  • Vilgax: Fired Magic missles at the ship

• Round 2

  • DM: Amorynth fires the ballista. Vilgax fires more magic missiles.
  • Yyytr: Prepares the ballista for firing
  • Zimkar: Fires the ballista…very badly damaging the arm of the ballista
  • Zandirath: Prepares the ballsita for firing

• Round 3

  • DM: Amorynth Fires the ballista a second time with a critical hit. Vilgax Double moves, gaining on the airship… next turn he'll be within breath weapon range. Blastibuum fires a Lightning Bolt at Vilgax
  • Yyytr: Heals Zimkar for 21 with Cure Moderate Wounds
  • Zimkar: Prepares the ballista for firing

• Round 4

  • DM: Amorynth Fires the ballista landing another critical hit. Bo finishes the ballisa preparation allowing Zimkar to fire it. Vilgax Fires another barrage of magic missiles
  • Yyytr: Prepares the ballista for firing
  • Zimkar: Takes a wait action to fire the ballista when ready (he hits and deals 20 damage)
  • Zandirath: Creates a Major Image of the airship which dives below just as the airship rises
• Out of thin air a fiery ring erupts and out from its center comes a massive creature bathed in flame

Session 07 February 18, 2021

• As the crew and party looks towards the portal they notice a massive creature bathed in flame, a Pit Fiend he speaks saying:

"Who dares summon Neshum. And to what fresh hell..? Oh it is the material plane? A little early, but this will do."

• Soon Vilgax releases a large breath of fire onto the illusionary ship, upon realizing it is fake he lets out a bellow
• Neshum and Vilgax begin to battle one another fighting wildly
• The crew notices that the airship's primary balloon has been damaged, causing air too escape, and the balloon to lose altitude
• The group tries unsuccessfully to repair the balloon and the airship continues to lose altitude
• Creates with spiked backs emerge from more portals, attacking the party and crew alike
• One by one all the members of the party except for Zandirath wounded and fall unconscious
• Unable to slow it's decent the airship crash lands in Pescula Desert, at the southern border of the empire
• While most of the party is alive, the ship's first mate Karl is killed in the fight

Session 08 March 18, 2021

"Your eyes are thrown open as you feel your strength returning. You can move, but you’re definitely still in pain, a not so new symptom of the Empire’s relentless chase. The events of the past several days were terrifying and confusing, and you will need to make sense of it all. Who is this Neshm?; the demon with a name of such power it’s mere utterance seems to chill the very air. How was he summoned to the material plane? And by who? Whatever the answers to these questions, one thing is clear; one of the mightiest beings in all of hell is now engaged in battle with an Seasoned Red Dragon, and the results could have world-reaching impact.
As your vision comes into focus a surly dwarf comes into view, arm extended to help you rise from your feet."

• The dwarf first extends a hand to Yyytr, saying in a gruff voice "On your feet lad"
• Another dwarf claps his hand on Zimkar's back, saying nothing but Zimkar pulls himself to his feet
• Zandirath is approached by a boisterous dwarf who speaks quickly "There's no time to sit about lad" and helps Zandirath to his feet
• Bo Blasibuum strides away but looks back at the Silver claw saying "…I hope this works out"
• In conversation with Bo Blastuum, the Silverclaw are told there are not the correct tools aboard the airship to be able to repair it, so the group will need to head out across the desert, Northeast towards Dursdale
• Yyytr, Davon, and Zandirath conclude that
• The Dulin Brothers are the guard of the Iron Caste and will likely draw attention in Weston
• The group decides to head North to Weston, and ride it's border east to Dursdale
• The group of dwarves and Silverclaw, 10 in total, set off to the North, Yyytr uses wild shape to transform into a Vulture and fly above the group to act as a guide
• Along the journey, Zimkar asks the dwarves, "So why are you helping us" to which Davon responds, "We help because we have no choice…", but Bo Blastibuum interjects:

"Now now, let's not be rude. We help because we see an opportunity to help Dursdale, you see our conflicts with the empire have not been going so well lately, for years we could hold the line, but lately Rutgar has been able to bring these giant creatures to the battle. All we have left is gorilla warfare, and we saw the greatest gorilla warfare group in history being ousted from the Empire, and we seized the opportunity."

• In the first 2 hours, the group travels around 3 miles the temperatures are blistering and the dwarves begin to overheat. During the third hour, the sky begins to darken and the winds begin to pickup

  • Yyytr recognizes a from the changes that strong storm is coming
• The group decides this is as good a time as any to camp for the day. Zandirath casts Rope Trick and group sees the storm batter the landscape from the protection of its interdimensional void
• On one day, Yyytr casts Commune with Nature to discern the presence of an unnatural creature in the vicinity

• The group feasts once a day on Yyytr's Bountiful Banquet, and after three days the group emerges from their rope trick to a landscape which has changed entirely, landmarks have moved and even the dunes themselves have shifted

  • As the dune on which the rope trick was cast has moved, it is now 80 feet to the base of the desert
• Yyytr once again uses Wild Shape to transform into a giant vulture and carry the members of the group to the base of the desert
• Yyytr then casts Endure Elements on the group and the group sets off with Yyytr discerning north by casting Know Direction

• The group proceeds through the desert when all of a sudden we hear a scream from close behind and the group notices Davon, the ships captain, is missing. Yyytr notices that Davon sunk beneath the sand

  • Zandirath casts Locate Object on Davon's breastplate, he senses the breastplate moving under the ground beneath the group, from rear to front
• All of a sudden a monstrous creature erupts from the desert floor, large serrated teeth line the mouth of a massive purple worm. Gripped in the gaggle of teeth is the corpse of Davon Dradir

Session 09 April 1, 2021

"Not wanting to stay near the crashed airship, an obvious location for dragon and devil to find, the party ventured out into the desert. A difficult and foreboding landscape. They needed only to reach the other side, then the people of DursDale would protect them. The first day of travel however, proved that this would be no easy task. The party had only been traveling for a short time, when Captain Davon issued a bloodcurdling scream that would be his last. He then disappeared beneath the sands, vanishing as if devoured by some beast, because he was. As if on cue, a massive purple worm and shattered from underneath the sand, deadly poison dripping from its gaping maw."

• Round 1

  • DM: The purple worm attacks wildly at Culbi but misses, striking the sand nearest him. The Dulin brothers move around, repositioning themselves. Some retreat, others bring out scrolls for spell casting and Harby Dulin slowly walks around towards the side of the creature.
  • Zimkar: Hearing the shout of Zandirath who says "Hold your fire! Hold your fire! Don't Attack!", decides to both study the target and begin a death attack.
  • Zandirath: Casts Charm Monster on the purple worm, convincing it to leave the area.
• As the worm slinks away back into the sand the group witnesses the legless remains of Davon Dradir laying in a pool of blood
• The group considers casting Reincarnate on Davon's remains, while Bo Blastinuum initially protests the idea, he eventually agrees to allow the group to bring the remains with them for the day, to give Yyytr time to cast the ritual

• They decide to make camp for the day, but as Zandirath peers around the area, he spots a tree in the distance with a large body of water surrounding its base

  • The group is immediately skeptical of this, but with Zandirath's knowledge we learn there are some rumors of oases in the Desert, they are few and far between but they do exist
  • Yyytr flies several hundred feet above the oasis and scouts the area around it. He does not see anything suspicious, save for a few beetles
• Despite this the group is still too unnerved by the site to dare go near it, instead they give it a wide berth and decide to make camp next to a cactus
• The group makes camp for the night, both Yyytr and Zandirath spend the dawn pouring over books and preparing spells for the night to come

• At next dusk, Yyytr casts Reincarnate on Davon who is brought back in a human body

  • Zimkar uses his hat of disguise to transform into Davon's dwarf body, for a joke in very poor taste and that plays on enough dwarven stereotypes to be considered "wildly racist"
• The party sets off once more, as they make their way across the sand, Zandirath spots two stone faces, peaking above the surface of the desert with the tops of their heads oriented vertically

"At first, it’s shape is nondescript, A black shape against an endless tide of sand. But as the wind pushes and pulls the sand like many small waves, a more specific pattern emerges. Buried and worn beneath ages of sand, are two faces etched in stone."

• According to Zandirath's knowledge, the oases of the desert were home to one of the earliest human civilizations

• Zandirath turns to Bo Blastibuum asking "You're a learned man, do you have any deeper knowledge?"

  • Bo knows there are legends of untold riches in the civilizations, however few who enter are able to describe locations in the Pescula Desert any more precisely than 'a few days south…' or 'west of the oasis'

Session 10 May 04, 2021 Soundtrack 1, Soundtrack 2, Soundtrack 3

• The group smells the faint sent of sweetness, almost fruity in nature…
• The smell becomes ever more enticing; both Zimkar and Zandirath are draw to it's origin, unable to resist it's allure.
• As the group presses forward, from the depths of the earth and up from the surrounding sand erupts a creature with a gaping maw and tentacles surrounding it

• Round 1

  • DM: Dulbi Dulin launches a devastating Scorching Ray which severs a tendril, cauterizing the wound. The creature whips it's tentacles around wildly, attacking several. The ground around it gives way and Darby Dulin falls onto a spiked tooth.
  • Zanakin: feels compelled by the intoxicating smell to approach the newly opened pit…
  • Zimkar: slices with his rapier at a nearby tendril lopping it off before retreating
  • Yyytr: casts baleful polymorph on Harby Dulin, turning him into a vulture in an attempt to keep him safe from himself.

• Round 2

  • DM: Darby gasps loudly regaining his composure, and is able to move out of the pit just in time. Dulbi Dulin casts Mage Armor on Zimkar as Bo Blastibuum launches a scorching ray at the creature's beak. The pit creature lashes out striking Darby and Zimkar, but is unable to grab on to grab either. It swings but misses
  • Zanakin: Regaining his composure, he casts Ice Storm centered around the pit. Sharp, needle-like ice shards strike all over the creature.
  • Zimkar: walks forward slightly, reaching out with his rapier and slicing off another tentacle.
  • Yyytr: casts Freedom of Movement on Darby, and tells everyone that he will be casting a spell to walk on air but needs everyone to be close by.

• Round 3

  • DM: Darby, drunk on moving so freely launches himself down the side of the pit, weapon raised, as he does so, Culbi casts Cure Serious Wounds on him. Bo Blastibuum unleashes a barrage of Magic Missiles. Harby–in vulture form–flys away. The creature once again lashes out with its tentacles, striking Culbi and pulling him in towards the center of the pit.
  • Zanakin: casts shield on himself and backs away
  • Zimkar: strikes at flesh surrounding a tooth, cutting deep before fleeing
  • Yyytr: casts Communal Airwalk on both Dulbi and Zimkar

• Round 4

  • DM: The tentacles of the beast grip tight to Culbi, but an arrow from Amorynth pierces the tentacle causing it to go limb and release Culbi. Dulbi unleashes a Fireball at the pit damaging the creature. The creature opens it's beak, unleashing a noxious gas which burns everyone around the pit. The tentacles lash out striking Dubli, Zimkar, and Davon.
  • Zanakin: casts Lightning Bolt, which strikes the beak of the creature causing it to reel in pain.
  • Zimkar: walks on air towards the center of the pit and stabs at the beak piercing it, and green liquid oozes out.
  • Yyytr: casts Snowball throwing a ball of ice and snow at the beak of the creature.

• Round 5

  • DM: Darby sticks his sword into the beak of the creature and tries to pry it open. Dulbi launches another Scorching Ray. Amorynth fires a shot at at a tentacle, cleaving it in half. Darby, Davon and Yyytr are all attacked by whipping tentacles.
  • Zanakin: recalls Lightning Bolt from his pearl of power striking the beast with deadly force.
  • Zimkar: is drawn deeper into the creatures throat and as he is trapped manages to unleash a devastating blow on the creature clawing his way back towards the entrance of it's mouth
  • Yyytr: Operation Mastodon is underway. Yyytr flys into the creature's mouth and uses Wild Shape to transform into a mastodon, forcing open the creatures beak.

• Round 6

  • DM: Darby reaches deep into the mouth of the creature lifting Zimkar up and out of its mouth.
  • Zanakin: lays in wait unable to attack out of fear of hitting Yyytr
  • Zimkar: Sprints far away from the creature
  • Yyytr: Turns back into a bird and escapes its mouth. Just as Yyytr escapes its mouth, the Sarlacc closes its beak and slides down back beneath the earth from which it sprang…

Session 11 May 18, 2021 Soundtrack 1, Soundtrack 2

• The group sets out towards the two gargoyles off in the distance, perched above the desert floor
• Before digging at the base of the figures, Zandirath casts Detect Magic in a cone directed at the statues, but finds no magical presence
• Davon and Culbi begin to dig at the sand beneath the Gargoyles and reveal the top of a set of stairs descending beneath the surface of the desert.
• The stairs level off at the base of a long corridor and spiderwebs line the walls, the webs are thick, not from a typical spider, and they appear… aged
• Infernal text is scrawled across the walls , the words lost to time. Several statues of unholy gods adorn the walls of the corridor, upon further inspection it becomes clear the statues which line the wall are images of the god Hextor

• Along the dungeon floor Yyytr notices a set of footprints. The prints of a creature with two feet and clawed toes.

  • Zandirath determines that these prints likely are owed to a creature not of this plain. He investigates and learns that Hextor is the lord of the 9th level of Hell.

• The group decides to rest outside the entrance to the dungeon

  • Zandirath casts Rope Trick (the less busted version) while Yyytr casts Tree Shape away from the group disguising as a cactus
• In the morning Yyytr casts True Form on Harby Dulin returning him to his dwarven form

• In the dungeon the group approaches the end of the corridor and see a path blocked by two eroded wooden doors.

  • Zandirath casts Detect Magic on the door but doesn't sense the presence of magic.
• As Harby and Darby enter the room, they see the back of a large spiked devil who turns towards the group and says:

"You should not be be here. You've interrupted the research of Neshum. I've made a decision, you shall not leave"

• Round 1

  • DM: The devil launches at Darby but misses. Dulbi casts Scorching Ray but the fire damage has no effect. Bo Blastibuum casts Lightning Bolt hurting the devil while Davon throws an axe. Amorynth strikes him with an arrow
  • Yyytr: Casts a dazing Snowball from his metamagic wand. However on contact with the devil's exterior, the spell seems to fizzle out. Ssssskaa also lashes out striking it but being pierced by the devil's barbs
  • Zimkar: Stealthily sneaks behind the devil
  • Zandirath: Casts Shield and places his bow within arms reach

• Round 2

  • DM: The barbed devil lashes out, striking Darby with his claws. Darby seems shaken by the sudden attack as do other dwarves who see it. Harby swings with a greataxe, while Dolby casts Magic Missile, and Amorynth fires his bow. Both the cold damage and weapon damage appear to have lessened effect on the creature. Bo once again casts Lightning Bolt
  • Yyytr: Casts Ice Spears, the spears deal heavy damage while Ssssskaa strikes once again
  • Zimkar: Strikes the devil with his rapier, dealing damage to the devil but is pierced by a barb in the process.
  • Zandirath: Casts Lightning Bolt directed at the devil, the spell lets out a loud crack but fails to get through the devils flesh

• Round 3

  • DM: The barbed devil strikes Zimkar, dealing damage and beginning a grapple with the creature. Culbi heals Zimkar while Harby and Davon swing at the creature and Amorynth fires a shot at it
  • Yyytr: Walks forward and casts Stoneskin on Ssssskaa who bites and deals damage to it. Yyytr then attempts to pull the devil away but is unsuccessful
  • Zimkar: Stabs at the devil from within its grasp, dealing heavy damage but taking lots in return from it's spiky flesh
  • Zandirath: Unleashes a massive Lightning Bolt the sound is deafening as it echoes within the cavern walls the flash of light cracks through the air and slices deep through the devil's flesh slaying it where it stands…

Session 12 June 15, 2021 Soundtrack 1

The hellish smell of Brimstone still wafts through the air as the husk of the barbed devil crashes to the floor with a thud. You know little of this Neshm the Pit fiend running amok on the material plane, but now he immediately sends a barbed devil, among the higher ranks of devilkind, to investigate this place? As the anxiety filled nights draw onward, one thing has become abundantly certain; something is stirring in the Nine Hells. From hellhounds to Pit Fiends, hellspawn have been ripping through portals to the material plane without warning for some time now. Right now you’re unsure which is worse, the wrath of the Tyrant Di’Jaza, or the ire you may now incur from upsetting this new adversary of Hell, Neshm. Was this place known to the mighty pit fiend prior to his arrival on the material plane? How else could such a devilish researcher be found in this cavern only a few short days after his sudden arrival? Something foul is afoot. Whatever his reasons, this place must have some importance to the beings of Hell. What is their purpose on our plane? Are they coming here intentionally? More than once, Hellspawn have regaled the Silver Claw with questions and confusion upon their arrival; The Hellcats knew not the plane to which they had traveled, and Neshm’s portal had been thrown open with a shout, for indeed the mighty devil did question who dare summon him. There simply must be clues hidden in the dark and yellowing pages shelved in the decaying book cases lining the walls. This unmapped dungeon tucked away in one of the most dangerous natural landscapes in the realm is far too eerie and secretive to be meaningless. The Barbed Devil certainly didn’t make it far, as the large stone doors stand sentinel before you, remaining shut as they guard yet unknown secrets. As you glance around, failing to notice any convenient key rings adorning the walls, you recall the Devils choice phrasing, "research." Is it possible your unholy adversary knows little more than you about this place? Only one way to find out. Better hope nothing finds its way down here on the hunt for an evening snack.

• Zimkar searches the carcass of the barbed devil, he sees a rolled up piece of parchment fastened to the creature's waist.

  • Bo Blastibuum casts a spell to move the scroll off the devil, and uses Detect Magic but cannot find any magical auras. Zandirath casts Detect Magic as well, and satisfied that it is not magical, unfurls the scroll and reads it.
  • The author of the scroll, denoted by "J", questions whether the 'key' has been found and instructs the devil to go to this cave and determine by what means they have been summoned.
• Zandirath searches the bookshelf until he finds a large leather bound book entitled "Common Chronicles of Auguthur" that appears worn by time.

• Dulbi calls out to the group saying he can read the headstone on one of the coffins, it reads in Elven "Dricor Varrelush: Architect of Ascendancy", moving to another coffin he reads "Zeredus Kerrt: Master of Metal", Bo finds another tomb inscribed with the title """

  • The Master of Metal appears to have been approximately 6'6" and has several broken bones–all of which have healed.
  • The Architect

• Yyytrr searches and finds a scroll, tucked behind books of common arcane magics. Emblazoned on the top of the parchment is a symbol drawn in blood, with a body of text written in infernal.

  • The scroll tells a poem of a king Caprikus who had all that he wanted, it reads:

He of might, Caprikus The name doth drip with power, The gold he claims is inhumane The children left to sour

He of sorrow, Caprikus For gold seeds not his need His eyes for one but she had none Of loneliness his creed

He of blood, Caprikus Of bloodlet yes indeed A pact did he create with the mate Son of heralds, unholy First Sword of Auguthur Aversaad Elrequin

• From Zandirath's knowledge, in the past, individuals who were actually responsible for bringing spells into existence were often referred to as Architects, however it's unclear what Ascendancy might mean.
• Zimkar and Zandirath scout out a back room and find several more sarcophagi containing human servants.
• The remainder of the tombs whose inhabitants are visible from the outside are of humans

• Darby and Harby move the lid of the Architect's sarcophagus slightly to reveal the body of Dricor Varrelush, a young elf who appears to have died from a broken neck.

  • In his hands is clenched a small composition book.

• Culbi casts Speak with Dead to speak with the Architect. His eyes roll back and he become white, and the spectral form of the Architect comes up.

  • Who or what is Auguthur?

    • Auguthur is my home

  • How did you die?

    • They didn't understand (repeats)

  • Who is Aversaad Elrequin?

    • "Good with a sword, loyal"

  • Who is Caprikus?

    • "My liege"

  • Who was the women Caprikus fell for?

    • "A mistake"

  • What did you influence?

    • "A mistake"

  • Who are the sons of Caprikus?

    • "Fathered None"

  • Are we the first to disturb your slumber?

    • "Who disturbs my slumber"

  • Did others come before use and disturb you?

    • "Who disturbs my slumber"

  • Who are sons of Heralds?

    • "My kin"

  • Who is the herald?

    • "The lord"

  • What is an architect of ascendancy?

    • "A discoverer"

  • Do you know anything about a crest of power?

    • "My finest work"

  • What is the key?

    • No response

  • Where is the key?

    • No response
• Zandirath attempts to recall information about Caprikus, but is unsuccessful. He then recalls that of a place in the far east which references Zeredian steel, likely related to the Master of Metal. He is once again unable to recall anything about Aversaad.
• Zimkar searches once again in the bookshelf, but this time finds a brass key tucked away under a false bottom. They put the key into the door on the right and the key slips into the lock with a click, they open the door and Zimkar moves forward with caution.

• The room diverges into a narrow hallway ending in a large open room off to the right, which reeks of death and is covered in lots of thick spider webs.

  • Yyytrr determines that the spider which made these webs was likely a Gargantuan spider
• As the group is discussing, they hear deep thudding coming through the walls, the sound of many legs clamoring about.
• Yyytrr wild shapes into a large spider and hides against the wall along with the rest of the party, he then calls out in common "Hey, hey, I'm a druid too!"… no response
• Zimkar sneaks up to the door on the left and turns himself into a smaller version of himself, and peers through the gap between the door and the floor, he sees only a few boxes and very few spider webs
• Out of no where the group hears the sound of a teleportation spell go off in the adjacent room, home to carcasses and spider webs. The group hears a shaken voice call out "What? Where am I?" thinking this may be an unwilling sacrifice to the spider queen, the group decides it best to attempt to rescue the individual and learn what he knows about how he arrived here.
• As Yyytrr rounds the corner he sees on the far side of the room, the Duke of Cantebury, and on the other… a massive black beast with many beady eyes.

Session 13 July 27, 2021 Soundtrack 1, Soundtrack 2

As the group looks on towards the Duke, it becomes clear that he is in grave danger. On one side of the room stands the duke, bloodied and terrified. On the other side of the room is a giant spider beady eyed and mandibles clicking.

• Round 1

  • Yyytrr: Summons two fire elementals on either side of the spider and between it and the Duke, they both lunge for the Spider but miss. He also crawls over to the Duke (as a spider) and tells him “Hey its your favorite Druid, I’ll explain later, hop on!”
  • DM: The spider bites into the fire elemental to its left, immediately killing it, but catching fire in the process. Bo’ Blastibuum casts Bull’s Strength on Zimkar. Dulbi unleashes a Scorching Ray burning the webs in front of the spider
  • Zandirath: Wait turn
  • Zimkar: Throws his bedroll across the room into a dense region of webs

• Round 2

  • Yyytrr: Reaches for the Duke but he appears to be stuck, he casts Freedom of Movement on the Duke and carries him into the hallway, while his elemental burns the webs in front of it
  • Zandirath: Runs forward and grabs the Duke, pulling him further into the hallway and further into safety
  • DM: The spider rushes towards the hallway reaching its mandibles through into the gap but is unable to hit Zimkar, eventually relenting and crawling back into the darkness
• The Duke appears battered, bruised, and deeply shocked at the sight of the Silver claw
• Yyytrr casts Cure Moderate Wounds on the Duke and heals some of his worse wounds
• The Duke perks up slightly and says "Di'Jaza claimed my wife, one moment she was my love, the next she was his. She told him everything, knowing my life would be forfeit…"
• The group worries that the Duke or the location are likely being Scryed by Di'Jaza or one of his wizards

• Before leaving, they decide to explore the remainder of the rooms in the dungeon beginning with the southern door, Zimkar picks the lock and the group enters the room

  • The room is filled with barrels and boxes which appear to have not been used in a long time, perhaps since the empire was last here
  • Most of the barrels and boxes appear to filled with ancient, decayed herbs
  • Another of the barrels appears to be filled with implements of torture, knives, needles and tubes used for blood letting, the sort of shit Yyytrr gets off to

Session 14 August 17, 2021 Soundtrack 1, Soundtrack 2

As your search through the old musty crates and boxes continues, their contents continue to bring back old memories. Decayed and decrepit raw materials to be used in hexes spells and maledictions can be found, along with orpheus stretchers, spiked gags and all other manner of familiar tools of a tortuous trade. Finally, and perhaps most disturbingly, yuou find barrels upon barrels of broken up human bones. Clearly Caprikus had some dark dealings for all of this to lie in the tomb of his closest followers. You also find unholy symbols etched into a couple jewel crusted goblets, still stained with a ruddy red color even after all these years. Wine? Blood? You cant be sure, but the symbols of hell lining the chalice certainly add an ominous feel.

Every once in a while, you can feel a slight shaking, coming from the wall closest to the room with the gargantuan arachnid. It can’t be happy about having been deprived of its last meal. Several of the Dulin Brothers, Davon, Bo, and OeSius the Duke have stayed in the previous hall, more comfortable with the coffins of the ancient Ruler’s inner circle than the barrels of human remains.

• Zandirath looks around at the religious symbols and recalls from his studies that these symbols–while old versions–may be of Hextor the God of War, Discord, and Conflict
• Hextor is known by some as "The Herald", Zandirath postulates that perhaps this is the tomb of
• Marihla approached The Scholar and asked that he help Di'Jaza to use the Crest of Auguthur Hextor
• At the far end of the room there is another door, partially caved in and revealing a dark hallway stretching further in
• Zandirath pipes up and suggests that this tomb might not be the tomb of Hextor himself, but rather his son "The Son of Heralds"… Caprikus

• Zimkar slowly opens the door at the far side of the room, giving way to a hallway, diverging into two where it ends

  • The door crumbles as Zimkar pushes it open. The Empire may have come to this dungeon but it seems unlikely that they made it this far without destroying the brittle door
• As Zandirath examines the stones lining the dungeon walls, he notices that they are cut in a process known as "water milling" perfected by ancient humans

• Zimkar moves down the hallway and examines both of the paths leading off in either direction

  • On the right is a hallway around the corner of which lies a large ornate looking door. On the left the hallway houses a smaller door before it wraps back in the direction we came
• The ornate door bears more of the same unholy symbol Zandirath examined earlier, they are arranged in a pattern reminiscent of a prayer room or temple
• The group decides to examine the portions of unexplored hallway first, before setting out on opening any doors
• At the end of the left hallway, opposite the small door on the ground lies a small rusty key

• Being suspicious of the key, Zandirath casts Detect Magic. While the key does not have a magical aura, there are four auras in total within 60 feet.

  • The aura from beyond the central door is a strong enchantment aura
  • Behind the small door lies one strong Necromancy aura
  • From beyond the ornate door emanate three overwhelming magical auras. Two from the school of Necromancy, and one from Evocation
• The group examines the key, Zimkar searches the key for signs of being trapped with a coating of Dragon's Bile Poison. Yyytrr extracts some of the poison from the key's surface and places it in one of Zimkar's vials
• The group scouts out the remaining hallway, finding nothing the group decides to get some rest in the sanctum before continuing further
• About a third of the way through Zimkar's watch he hears the sound of a door swinging on rusted hinges coming from the south. Hew wakes Amorynth, Zandirath, and Yyytrr
• The sounds are followed by a single pair of footsteps walking around in the hallway beyond
• Zandirath quietly wakes the Dwarves and the group head towards the footsteps

• The group hears a voice speaking in hushed tones. Zandirath recognizes the words as Abyssal which repeat

  Let The Herald come, Let The Herald find, Let The Herald come.

• Yyytrr approaches the door at the end of the hallway and peers in. The coffins in the room seem thoroughly undisturbed and seemingly immune to the passage of time around them

  • Three of the coffins read Son of Hextor and the four coffin–with it's lid open–reads Ossius Bonecraft, Son of Hextor
• The group moves around the hallway to the right, the sounds of distant chanting growing louder…

Session 15 August 31, 2021 Soundtrack 1

The musty smell of hanging wall moss lies in the air. You're unsure of how long this place has been forgotten. Was the Empire the first to have opened this tomb since ancient times? And if they are, what secrets might they have unearthed here? There seems to be a connection between this place and the hellspawn, but how deep does it run? So many questions, and most of the answers on the pages you’ve found have decayed away.

Recent findings suggest however, that there might be one denizen of these halls remaining who could shed some light on its original creation and purpose. Given that he appears to have risen from his coffin recently however, you doubt this, "Ossius Bonecraft" will be forthcoming with information. You’re also not really sure where he is, which is equally concerning. With the disconcerting sounds of chanting growing louder in your ears however, you can only assume he must be close. If Zandirath’s hunch holds true and this is a vampire as ancient and stories as this tomb? You shudder at the thought. Could this be a foe beyond even your talents? Confident though you may be, you consider the possibility.

At least the climate in this cavernous tomb is more forgiving than the blistering heat of the Pescula Desert. It's the little things these days…

• As Zimkar starts to approach the door, he catches Zandirath frantically signing at him. Not knowing sign language Zimkar makes an obscene gesture, forcing Zandirath to move forward bringing out his parchment and quill.
• Zandirath scrawls on the page "Vampire. Do you have any wooden stake? Got up out of coffin."
• Zimkar thinks for a moment and then pulls a small vial of holy water from his bag.
• The group slowly notices that the chanting has stopped, and sees through the open doorway two sets of wooden arms gripping large ornate iron chalices overflowing with a think red substance resembling blood.
• Zandirath moves towards the dwarves and asks if they have a wooden stake or something to cause fire. The dwarves seem uneasy about the prospect of a vampire but agree to try to find something to help.
• Zandirath moves back towards the open room and casts Mage Armor and Shield on himself and begins preparing additional casts of scorching ray
• Inside the room Yyytr crawls up the walls and along the ceiling. As he surveys the area he see an entirely empty room, save for a rat. We were sure that the chanting was emanating from the this room, but appears empty…something is not right
• The group decides to back away to a more familiar location, avoiding a fight if possible but giving the best chance of surviving if a fight is inevitable. They make their way for the exit of the catacombs and decide to wait at the surface of the desert
• As Zimkar moves back to close the doors which had been opened he catches a glimpse of an old humanoid male, with skin too pale to be alive. The man stood tall with tattered clothes resembling those of a priest. Zimkar recognizes that the being appears to have seen him, Zimkar decides to turn back and head with the group towards the surface.
• The group distributes watches throughout the party and on Zimkar's watch he sees two massive beetles, neither of which appear to notice the group resting in the rope trip, get swallowed up as a purple worm erupts from the desert float. The Pescula desert is treacherous

• After the night, the group reenters the catacombs. It appears in the night that the place has been rearranged, many of the books have been placed back on the shelves and the coffin lids have been moved back into place. Looking closer the group notices that the body of the demon has been hoisted up and pinned to the wall by a sword piercing through it's skull

  • Zandirath notices that there appear to have been thin slits in the demon's arms, around it's thighs and neck. The slits appear always to come in pairs separated by about an inch and a half. Zandirath notes that they are likely Vampire bite marks, perhaps the creature is hungry…
• The group notices that the door to the left of the main atrium has been opened where before it was closed
• Yyytr makes his way through the right door and finds the collapsed wooden door and is able to fashion 4 wooden stakes by casting Wood Shape, the stakes are passed out to Zimkar, Amorynth, Harby, and Darby
• Zandirath casts Mage Armor and Shield on himself, releasing the arcane energy from his ring
• As the group approaches–with Zandirath taking the lead–they notice down the hallway font of blood, this time being held by a statue with segmented arms giving the appearance of exposed bone. Zandirath continues to approach the hallway seeing an open door opposite the statue
• As Zimkar tails behind Zandirath he notices at the far end of the hallway same pale figure he had seen the day before, this time kneeling with his hand placed on a closed door in a stance of prayer. There are runes which spiral towards the center of the door. The door appears massive, larger than any in the area. The group assumes the figure to be Ossius Bonecrafter. He who grips a staff emblazoned with the symbol of Hextor, and another symbol that not even Zandirath recognizes.
• Ossius Bonecraft speaks out to the group, he claims that something is missing and believes the group to have stolen it. Bonecraft claims to have been charged with protecting it and wants to know why it is missing, he begins to approach the group
• Zandirath protests and asks for him to clarify what it is he is referring to, but he never answers
• Bonecraft says he is tasked with protecting this place and after Zandirath asks for whom he protects this place. Ossius says that we likely do not even know her name but she is the one
• Zandirath asks who he serves Hextor or her sister, he replies that they are both the same to him, both means to an end
• Ossius also wonders how the demon, a servant of Hextor, came to arrive in this place giving chase to the group
• Zandirath offers to exchange knowledge with Ossius in exchange for being placed in his good graces. Ossius refuses to accept the offer and instead ask that the group give up the knowledge they poses freely and he will make up his mind after the fact
• Ossius admits that perhaps the group could kill him. He begins to walk towards the door again and says that while hey may be within the groups capacity to kill, what lies behind the door is far beyond the strength of anyone there.
• Zandirath begins to tell the story of how the group has been has been attacked by creatures coming from a different plane. He mentions the story of the hellcats which appeared and offered to give use a quick death if we told them which plane they were on. Zandirath then mentions the story of how the pit fiend Neshum appeared on the dwarven airship. As Zandirath mentions the name Neshum, Ossius mentions that he knows who this is. Zandirath concludes by mentioning that the
• Zandirath also mentions that the pit fiend carried a scroll with a symbol of Hextor on it, containing instructions. Ossius extends his arm asking for the scroll and Zandirath passes it to him and as he reads his brow becomes furrow
• Zandirath asked if Ossius' patron was half sister of Hextor as Heironeous is the half brother, Ossius confirms, and upon asking Zandirath also learns that she is only a half sister
• Zandirath mentions asks if the object that Ossius is looking for has anything to do with large beasts, creature, or control. Throughout the description, nothing seems to register with Ossius until he mentions the word control, to which Ossius perks up.
• Zandirath proceeds to tell Ossius of the process by which Di'Jaza rose to the throne and how overnight he went from a mediocre spellcaster to a legendary beastmaster
• Ossius says "it all makes sense now" come with me. As the group proceeds further and further into the crypts that different footprints seem to line the ground, as though many people have passed over this area before
• Zandirath mentions that there is a portal to this place, because an ally of the group's was teleported hundreds of miles from his throne room to this place, but Ossius doesn't believe it
• From south of the party Amorynth calls out to the group that they need to come out see something. The group rounds the corned and finds what appear to be a room–newly excavated–at the end of a hallway with a teleportation circle in the middle. When Zandirath asks if this area was there when Ossius was last awake, he seems to not see the room that the rest of the group does
• Zimkar approaches the opening and searches for traps but does not find any. As he calls out to tell the group that he found nothing, he cannot hear himself and neither can the group. Zandirath steps forward and places his arm through the opening and asks Ossius what he sees. Ossius replies that he saw Zandirath's hand pass through a solid wall
• Ossius asks the group to once again follow him, he claims to have answers to the questions that have been risen. He brings the group to the North end of the dungeon and shows the crypt of Caprikus and mentions that he was a ruthless leader.
• Ossius turns to the group and says "I now know who has done this…"

Session 16 September 15, 2021

The slow drip of water from the filaments of the cave moss fills your ears as you begin to process what Ossius Bonecraft has said. It all seems to be coming together now. The Empire’s search for rare artifacts, Di’ Jaza’s sudden rise and dominion over ungovernable creatures, could it be that all this madness is tied to what was stolen from the Tomb of Caprikus? Your thoughts return briefly to your findings in the library, where you came face to face with the chilling visage of Vecna. What was it he said? Ah yes, his voice had rang out with a ghastly undertone… "Secrets have seen the light that should have remained buried."

Could this artifact be the secret he was referring to? However many questions swirl through your head, one thing that you know with an abundance of certainty is that ancient magics can be unpredictable and often come with heavy consequence. If Di' Jaza is using an artifact he unearthed in this tomb that had been lost to passage of time, it is entirely possible that he doesn’t fully understand its effects. At any rate, the thought of the tyrant who exiled you and actively hunts you stole an ancient magical artifact from this surprisingly cordial vampire priest certainly irks you. And if this artifact is helping him to control the monstrous beasts with which he continually hunts you? Well then perhaps you’ve found a way to defeat him.

Your eyes return to the figure of Ossius Bonecraft, still unsure the degree to which he can be trusted. You wholeheartedly believe his story that he was tasked with guarding this place and the artifacts within, but who was it that originally sent him? Who is this "half-sister" of Hextor, whose name carries similar power? What lies beyond the door he seemed to reverently caress and why has it remained shut all these years with Ossius present? You can be sure he is a follower of Hextor, but his intentions and loyalties beyond this have proven difficult to discern.

The drip drip dripping of the water from the cave moss almost seems to jeer at you, insulting the fact that you were too late to stop the mad tyrant. Whatever it is he unearthed here, it must be returned. You cannot shake the fear that the fate of the material plane may rest upon it.

• When asked, Ossius says he doesn't know of Di'Jaza
• Ossius says that the group should return it to him, to which Zimkar replies "We take gold and platinum", to which Ossius replies that should we return it to him, he will bestow upon us great treasures that gold and platinum cannot buy.
• Zandirath recalls that as Di'Jaza sent us away, at his party he worn a gold encrusted with gold
• Ossius asks if we were familiar with the phrase, "Till death do us part". Ossius mentions that Caprikus fell madly in love with a woman, who did not love him in return. But Caprikus was determined and so he created the amulet to ensnare her, even against her will. When Caprikus died, she saw what had happened for how it was, she wondered why she had never questions, and how she was a part of the kingdom that he forged. Unable to live with who she had been forced to become, she took her own life
• Hextor and his half sister agreed that the amulet should be left here, until eventually it was forgotten. The group sought to hide the amulet away, destroying any historical writings of it. The Crest of Auguthur as the amulet is called was supposed to have been lost to time
• Ossius mentions that there were some in the nine hells who disagreed and felt instead that the amulet should be used. Neshum wanted to use the amulet to wage war over the material plane. Neshum delighted in the war and conflict and sought to gain dominion and lordship over the planes before revealing himself. Once he amassed a force of enthralled being, he planned to turn the amulet against the rest of the nine hells. Neshum would not give up his attempt and Hextor and Zura.
• The magic which forged the Crest of Auguthur is not known by any who now live, it is lost to time. When the amulet gis encountered Ossius would have no problem detecting it.
• Zimkar asks what the name of the half sister of Hextor is, and Ossius seems surprised that the group had not heard of her. He mentions that she is the first of his kind, Mother, the first vampire
• When Yytrr asks how well Hextor and his half sister got along, Ossius mentions that they had very different plans of how to conquer the material plane, but both felt as though the discussion of waging war with the material plane should be put on pause until the war with the underworld has finished
• Yytrr recalls that Neshum, had a pair of gauntlets with severed chains attached to them. Ossius mentions that the gauntlets have a permanent dimensional anchor cast on the, and so he should not have been able to traverse the planes
• Ossius continues to explain that the Crest of Auguthur is also the key to the door which he stood in front of when we first met him. Ossius says that the crest gains it's power from the plane of the hells. As the crest is continuously used, it brings the nine hells and the material plane closer and closer together, eventually if the crest is continually used, the crest will cause the material plane and the plane of the hells to co-exist.
• Ossius mentions that Dricor Varrelush was hung for his involvement in Caprikus' widow's enthrallment. When she learned of what happened she ordered him killed before she killed herself
• Yytrr asks about the connection between Hextor and Caprikus, Ossius replies that Caprikus developed his relationship with Hextor late in life, aided by Dricor
• Zandirath mentions that Lolth may have similar goals as Di'Jaza and Ossius says that perhaps it is her that helped lead Di'Jaza to information about the Crest of Auguthur
• Yyytr asks Ossius for one more question, after Ossius has says he has finished with his discussions for the day. Yyytr asks what is behind the door, Ossius simply replies that there are things that the mortal mind is not capable of comprehending
• Zandirath asks if there are any other items that might help in recovering the crest, but Ossius says that there are few objects that might help against the crest and that we might have better luck against the wielder
• Ossius says that what lies behind the door is for him and the mother to know, and not even Neshum fully understands
• Ossius asks for our word that we will return the crest to him, the group never directly answers the question
• Zandirath asks what the enchantments were around the area, he mentions that they are areas within the torture chamber
• Zandirath asks how often it is that Ossius awakes, he says that he was awoken once a month for about a century. And it was only the most recent time that Ossius awoke that he realized the amulet was gone when it had been there when he went to sleep
• Yyytr mentions that it is possible that Neshum aided Di'Jaza in getting the crest, knowing that he would use it and knowing that it would bring the planes closer together, something that would be a goal of Neshum
• Yyytr mentions that Di'Jaza likely knows that we are here and has Vilgax flying around the desert looking for us, and might be able to be instructed to come to this place looking for us
• Zandirath asks the Duke how he came to being in this room, the Duke mentions that he was blindfolded and taken by foot by the dreadguard, down many flights of stairs towards the center of the capital
• Zandirath presses and asks if he had friends in the capital that might have been trying to help by sending him away to this place. He responds that while has does have allies, Da'Jaza's last words to him were 'I'm done with you'
• As the group is discussing, Yyytr discretely casts Detect Magic but finds nothing. He mentions to the group that he had a thought that perhaps the individual teleported here appearing to be the Duke was really someone else
• As the group is discussing the teleportation circle, Zandirath recalls that the range of teleport is only a mile per level, but the capital is much further than that. He mentions that it was likely that he was brought through the teleportation circle, and then once here, teleported into the spider's lair. Zandirath brings him to the room with the teleportation circle and asks if the Duke recognizes it. He says that he does, it was the place that he was taken to before he saw the spider.
• The group then looks into the room opposite the teleportation circle. There appear to be small slits along the ceiling. Yyytr still having Detect Magic active, does not sense the presence of any magical auras
• The group proceeds to another room, after clearing the door for traps the group opens the wooden door to find a collection of masonry and blacksmith's tools
• One of the last rooms yet unexplored is near the doors where we found Ossius. The door is unlocked with the key we found and leads to a group a room with a statue. Zandirath casts Detect Magic in the room and detects two auras, one moderate and one overwhelming, he notices that one of the auras is centered around the statue and one from another place in the room.
• Finally checking the room opposite where the key was found there appears to be an old desk in a small room, and scrawled on some of the pages on the desk is the phrase "They didn't understand", the same words Dricor said when we spoke with him. Zandirath also casts Detect Magic in the room and finds nothing. Other pieces of paper are written in a language we cannot read; Zandirath carefully collects the pages. There is also a rusted dagger than Zandirath picks up, he examines it and finds that it appears of Elven make yet the edges of the blade appear to be jagged, meant to cause massive damage as it is removed from the body. This seems very uncommon for elves, but standard for the Drow.
• Before leaving the group stops by the small library of books, but upon looking through again, they find nothing in particular of note, and the books that remain have decayed beyond their use.
• Checking the stairs by to the right of the central atrium, the group finds a setup of more coffins inside the room at the top of the stairs. Most of the coffins have fallen into disarray, however two of the coffins appear to be well maintained. The plaque at the far side of the room reads "Royal Guardians of Auguthur". In the coffins that are broken, we can see the bodies of what appear to be warriors, buried in ceremonial armor. The bodies all appear to be young humans, and without visible mortal wounds
• As the group makes to leave, they hear the sounds of voices talking in the halls near the teleportation room…

Session 17 October 25, 2021 Soundtrack 1, Soundtrack 2

The Crest of Auguthur. An ancient artifact of such potent power that the very gods themselves agreed it should be sealed away and forgotten. It all makes sense now. Di’Jaza’s sudden rise to power, the magical and ungovernable beasts he claims as pets, the lack of opposition to his rule… All leads point to the amulet he wears around his otherwise easily sliceable neck.

While the crest explains almost everything about Di’Jaza’s rise, there is still one piece of missing information that remains unclear… By what means did he discover it? Ossius Bonecraft and the Sibling Gods themselves had done their best to eliminate all writings of the crest. Not only that, but the ongoing war with Dursdale continues to escalate, and the empire simply doesn’t have the manpower to launch explorative excursions into one of the most hostile territories on the planet. Whoever arrived remained magically hidden from Ossius, so Di’Jaza simply must have had prior knowledge and some sort of assurance that such a quest would be fruitful. But how?

The Silver Claw has considered several possibilities, but to be frank, they all seem quite plausible. Did the usurper Neshm find a way to inform the Evil Tyrant of this place, hoping to circumvent the dimensional anchor the Sibling Gods placed upon him? Was this a part of Lolth’s plan? It seems strange that the only Drow you found in this tomb was a magical Architect of untold power. At any rate, there are more pressing matters at hand. If the forces of Rutgar frequent this place enough to have built a teleportation circle for ease of travel, then it is quite likely that they will return in short order. It's even possible that the Tyrant knows you're here already. Just as this chilling remark was uttered by Yyytr, Zandirath recognized the arcane sound of a teleportation spell. Voices can now be heard echoing down the ancient stone hallways… something is coming…

• The group decides to have the Dulin brothers, Amorynth, and the duke make their way to the surface while Yyytrr, Zandirath, Zimkar hide away in the tomb listening for the voices which are made them hide in the first place. To aid in concealment Zandirath casts Silent Image to mask his and Zimkar's hiding spot behind a statue. Yyytrr is able to make out a deep voice saying "Leave the scholar here, we'll bring the remains back to give to Da'Jaza"
• A little while passes and we all are able to make out the footsteps, and soon after see a very large half-orc, one of the largest humanoids we have ever seen. He wears a full plate and wields a falchion that seems like it must be magical given it's fine make. He is followed by four dreadguard; they seem better outfitted and more cautious now than they did when last we met.
• As the group of Di'Jaza's men continue to explore the half-orc starts to become suspicious at the sight of the devil. They continue to go through the dungeon and head towards the spider's lair. When they don't find the body of the duke the half-orc says "go alert the scholar we must let Di'Jaza know."
• Yyytrr is able to hear the group of dreadguard for longer than the rest, he overhears the scholar say that he suspects Oe'Syus should be dead, and that the killing of the devil was likely at the hands of the Silverclaw since the fang marks were made posthumously. He also hears that the half-orc is likely named "Gurshak". Zandirath suspects that "Gurshak" must be a highly intelligent, far more so than the majority of half-orcs we've come across
• Zandirath suggests that Di'Jaza couldn't have scryed them given that it appeared Di'Jaza's men only ever suspected that the Silverclaw were there but never seemed certain.
• The group decides to leave the temple and travel only a short distance before making camp, they do not want to travel very far before protecting themselves from scrying.
• After the group has traveled a quarter of a mile, Zandirath casts Mage's Private Sanctum and casts 2 instances of Rope Trick, and casts one instance of Mage Armor into his ring of spell storing. The group is divided into two groups for sleeping, one who is more likely to be scryed, and the other who is less. One rope trick is placed outside of the sanctum, and one (with the Silverclaw) is placed inside it. Zandirath casts Silent Image on the sleeping duke to make it appear as though he is dead. In the morning, Yyytrr and Zandirath prepare their spells and Zandirath casts Read Magic to be able to start learning Communal Nondetection from Bo's spellbook. Bo also begins to prepare several casts of the single use of Nondetection.
• Before setting out for the day, Zandirath casts Scrying on the half-orc Gurshak, but the spell is not successful. Yyytr leads the way and the group sets out for the day. As the group is walking in the night, they can hear the faint sound of wings flapping in the distance, and Zimkar can just make out the sight of Vilgax off to the Southeast just on the horizon.
• Yyytrr casts Burrow to create a tunnel in the side of a sand dune, as the group enters, Zandirath casts Silent Image on the entrance of the tunnel to hide it from view. Zandirath recalls from his studies that while some dragons do gain true sight, red dragons do not. The group continues to burrow for the remainder of Yyytrr's spell.

Session 18 December 7, 2021 Soundtrack 1

The Empire is close. You can feel it. The footsteps in the halls of the Dungeon, the tremendous rushing of air from the beating of Vilgax’s wings; it seems ole Di’Jaza has caught your scent. In haste to find the nearest hideout in this desolate wasteland, the Sliver Claw jumped out of the fire and into the belly of the beast, or rather, into the tunnel of the beast. Though winding up in the belly of the Purple worm that made this tunnel still feels like a distinct possibility. Returning to the surface of the Pescula desert however seems even more perilous. With the keen eyes of a dragon circling overhead, the chances of being spotted with a party of your size seems almost certain, especially with these Dwarves who aren’t exactly the most subtle of creatures. Though you are loathsome to either option, you feel it best to take your chances with a mindless worm than a Red Dragon backed by an army of Dreadguard.

The tunnel that extends out before you seems to be boundless, even the clinking of the dwarven chainmail echoes down it like a drop of water in an endless cave. The very presence of such a tunnel is somewhat surprising in a desert, but the sand around you seems to hold its shape almost as if it were molded. Perhaps some foul magic is at play here? At this point, anything in the pescula desert seems possible. As you descend into the tunnel, you notice something rather peculiar. The deeper you travel, the wider the tunnel seems to become. If a singular worm dug this tunnel, how is it increasing in size? Something is strange here.

• After some deliberation the group decides to travel along the tunnel that Zandirath determines to have come from a purple worm
• As the group rounds the first corner Zimkar spots a set of aged and yellowing bones protruding from the walls of the tunnel
• A little further along, with Zimkar at the front of the group, they come across what appears to be a collection of underground sandstone ruins, built long ago
• As Zandirath approaches the ruins he recognizes the crest and suggests perhaps this is the ancient city of Auguthur. As the group moves closer, Zandirath casts Detect Magic. He finds one Moderate Transmutation aura emanating from all around the tunnel walls. As the group is discussing, with his tremor sense, Yyytrr feels the sensation of something about 50 feet away, headed north west. The group decides to track the footsteps of the creature which passed by
• Yyytr recognizes a single set of footprints around the size of his own leading off in the direction of the source of the tremors. Zimkar sneaks ahead finds another set of bones lining the walls, further on the path leads to more of the ruined city, with another wall collapsed in. He makes his way back to the group and Yyytrr mentions that he can sense two figures, roughly his size moving in two different regions to the north and east
• Zandirath moves to investigate the first set of bones in closer to the mouth of the tunnel but is unable to determine the cause of death
• The group moves ahead and follows east along the side of the remaining wall. Books litter the floor, too decayed and yellowed to be legible any more, but it clear something had gone through them in the past
• In a small room where the ruins transition to the surrounding cave a large collection of bones lie strewn across the floor. Bits of decayed flesh and muscle still clinging to the bone not yet fully decomposed
• As the group is discussing this Yyytrr senses the footsteps of a creature coming from the east. The group sees what appears to be a Mind Flayer emerges from the corridor and begins to set out towards the collection of bones piled in the room beyond. Zimkar begins to study him and prepares a death attack. Zandirath begins to sign to Yyytrr that he is going to attempt to dominate the Mind Flayer and Yyytrr relays the information to Zimkar
• As the creature returns from gnawing on the small bits of remaining flesh from the pile of bones, Zandirath casts Dominate on the creature and commands it to follow him. He leads it out of earshot of the rest of the group and asks "What are you doing here?"

Session 19 February 7, 2022 Soundtrack 1

“Ah. Surface dwellers, urop. Always a heartier meal than our farms produce, tharid. The rulers here, illithid, are waiting, al ilsen.” “Things that are forgotten by men, al abster, seldom remain forgotten, so the rulers, Illithid, wait. When they regain their importance, quas, those of the surface bring tidings to their rulers, illithid.”

• Zandirath asks what he and the other illithid were doing just prior to the group coming upon them, the Mindflayer responds that they were eating. Zandirath asks how far the main illithid settlement is from here. The Mindflayer responds that it is not far, perhaps an few hours walk.
• Zandirath presses and asks who is their leader is. The Bri'lakj the illithad says "He is Veritax, uli tor (wise elder). Seer of Flesh, mulin (arcane)" their ruler has come to realize the importance of this place as of late.
• The group decides to examine the pile of bones the Mindflayers were picking at. Zimkar keeps watch along the hallway, while Yyytrr searches through the corpses. The bodies are decidedly human, and the most recent of which appears to be a week or two old. The bodies appear to be clothed in makeshift clothing, sacks and rags fashioned into simple garments. Several sets of rusted manacles and other restraints, lay broken and in various states of disrepair around the pile of bones.
• The group decides to proceed, believing this might be the an entrance into the underdark. Perhaps DursDale can be found through the underdark. The group relays this to the dwarves who are skeptical but agree to proceed.
• Before the group sets out Zandirath peers into the mind of the Mindflayer he had dominated. The Mindflayer is walking towards its destination, and believes it is not much further. Zandirath instructs him to return back to us as soon as he is able to without arising suspicion.

• The group converses with the dwarves and decide that while Breenhul is the southern most city, which would be the closest to the Pescula Desert, however since the dwarves don't know for certain that there is an exit from the underdark, the group heads for Taghul, which Bo' knows has an gateway to the underdark.

  • Taghul is about a 6 day's ride on the surface from Breenhul
• As the group waits for Bri'lakj to return they begin to investigate the room adjacent to the entrance. There appear to be some books which have been rifled through, perhaps by the Mindflayers.
• When Bri'lakj returns Zandirath asks if he knows why the this place is of interest, "Veritax says the very gods themselves fight over this place" he continues to say that Illithid have great power here, perhaps even power enough to turn the tides of war with gods.
• Bri'lakj confirms that this place is his home and was once known as Auguthur, but now is known Mious Lugri Hion, "Feared Scholar of Darkness". He says that he knows the underdark which surrounds Mious Lugri Hion, and there are paths which lead around it, some which are not traveled and have fallen into decay and darkness. Bri'lakj says he knows of a way to deep mines owned by the dwarves. When asked the Mindflayer relays that he believes the path to the dwarven mines would take 1 to 2 weeks.
• The group decides to revist plans of teleporting into DursDale. Zandirath asks the dwarves if they have any images or belongs of someone in DursDale. Bo' speaks up and offers up a braclet made of his wife's hair. Bo' also recounts information about his wife in the hopes that it will improve Zandirath's ability to scry her. When he is ready, he casts successfully casts Scying and sees Bo's wife pleeing with the a powerful figure on behalf of Bo'. Zandirath casts Message to try to give her reassurances, but the spell fails.
• After spending a few hours to familiarize himself with the surrounding area, Zandirath casts Teleport as a ritual with Corghul's throne room as the target. Along with him he brings Bo', the duke, and Harby.
• With a flash of purple light they disappear and appear at once at the foot of the Corghul throne. Lord Guther greats the group and as they begin to exchange stories the Lord seems alarmed that Vilgax would persue them in into the Pescula dessert. Zandirath mentions that the Duke is likely to be scryed by Da'Jaza, and two guards swiftly remove him from the throne room. After some discussion the Lord Guther agrees to allow the Silverclaw to be teleported into the throne room, after his court adjourns for the day.

Session 20 March 7, 2022

• Lord Guther asks the Silver Claw to recount their travels leading up to this point
• Zandirath begins to tell the story which led the group to the throne room. Midway through the explanation, there is a heavy knock at the door
• Gareth Galto and Artemis Ripren of the republic of Weston walk in, followed by two others, Yama Thula and Neris Heartleaf of the Silverclaw
• They explain that these two members in the Silverclaw were in Weston as part of the coup in Weston where they were imprisoned until Gareth and Artemis came along and took the prisoners through some sort of time portal where they arrived here
• Gareth and Artemis disobeyed their superiors to bring Yama and Neris here, in the hopes that they may be able to help with the war against Di'Jaza
• Gareth and Artemis also bring with them news of Weston. They say that Di'Jaza has arrived with all manner of beasts beside him. His invasion of the region is progressing rapidly and Weston seems like it will fall soon
• Zandirath continues to recount the events of the Silverclaw. As Zandirath mentions the fact that the duke was being scryed, Artemis laughs and tells the group that it was him that was scrying the Silverclaw
• At the mention of the scholar, Artemis says that the scholar also arrived at the borders of Weston and that he may have been responsible for identifying the beasts that Di'Jaza
• Lord Guther believes a good way to learn more about the crest of Auguthur, would be through the Scholar. Artemis mentions that the scholar seems to be traveling with the Dreadguard and is at the borders of Weston

Session 21 March 21, 2022

Trouble just seems to follow the Silver Claw. Finally able to rest within the guarded walls of Dursdale, your respite was cut abruptly short by troubling news. Artemis Ripren and Gareth Galto of the Republic of Weston brought disheartening information to the capital of Dursdale. The Republic of Weston, one of the last remaining bastions of freedom from Empiric control within the region; lies on the brink of destruction. Di’Jaza marches on their borders even now as you recover your strength, with an army of Dreadguard and beasts at his stabable back.

The news was not all grim however, as the pair of Westonites also brought with them Yama Thula and Neris Heartleaf, two members of the Silver Claw who were thought dead by the party traveling with the dwarves. With the Claw finally back at full strength, the time has finally arrived to strike back at the Tyrant who ousted you from your once noble and elite status. A trusted confidant of Lord Guther, Artemis also had managed to uncover information that may prove vital in the wars to come. The Scholar, under the employ of Di’Jaza himself, seems to have an affinity for observing the marauding beasts he helped discover as they enact their terrible wrath on innocent peoples the Empire hopes to subjugate. He is present at the invasion of Weston, and therein lies a glimmer of hope for the free peoples.

Afforded time to recover and access to the armories of Dursdale, the Silver Claw is now tasked with dealing with the Scholar. He likely holds key intel on Di’Jaza’s plans, and may even know where the Mad Tyrant will seek out his next monstrous slave. He will not be easy to get to however, as he will be protected by members of the Dreadguard and likely by some of the beasts he helped ensnare. Should the Silver Claw succeed in this however, the tides of battle with Rutgar may shift in their favor. Will a shifting tide prove enough to stop the tsunami of Empiric war? Only time will tell.

Summoned to the throne room once again, The Claw awaits orders with nervous anticipation. This mission will be treacherous, and you can only hope that the ongoing war will serve as a distraction that will enable you to saunter in unnoticed. Capture the Scholar, glean what information you can, and dispose of him. These are your orders.

• Bo mentions that Artemis will be able to teleport some members of the party to the city of Armenfell, where a battle is raging. Artemis produces a detailed map of the city he intends to teleport to and gives it to Zandirath to study.
• After saying their goodbyes to Amorynth, and the dwarves the group teleports. They arrive in the middle of a city under seige. The group is immediately greeted by the sounds of battle and the sight of blood and corpses strewn throughout the streets
• As the group arrives they see a Minataur bend over a corpse eating ravenously. It seems blissfully unaware of the group's arrival.
• Yama casts Ghoul Army and Zimkar begins to study the creature as part of his death attack. After three rounds, Zimkar moves forwards and performs a death attack on the Minataur, killing it in one swoop. Yama then casts Animate Dead on the Minataur and the corpse it was eating, bringing them both under his thumb.
• Yyytr uses wildshape to transform into a Hawk. In the meantime, Neris notices that the buildings around the city appear to have been heavily damaged by a creature much larger than a Minataur. The group sneaks forward further into the city. In the next street over the group notices a Giant and two dread guard standing watch. The Giant seems to have noticed the Mintaur but seems unaware of the fact that it has been reanimated.
• Yama sends his ghouls forward towards the dread guard paralyzing one of them and attacking the other.

• Zimkar advances towards the paralyzed dread guard, taking advantage of his immobile state and slides his rapier into his neck, whispering in his ear while he does: "The Silverclaw send their regards…" Zandirath approaches the remaining dread guard and binds him.

  • Zandirath asks where is the scholar and why is he here? The guard seems to respond truthfully saying the scholar is in the Northeast corner of the city, surrounded by Gurshak and several other dread guard. He asks if the creatures ever disobey an order. The guard says no, they always do what they are commanded, exactly.
• Zandirath removes the guard's helmet, and tells him that he remembers his face, and that the Silverclaw will see to it that he is inflicted unimaginable pain if he is to reveal information about the Silverclaw to his allies. While the conversation continues, Yama also animates the corpse of the horse.
• The group reaches an agreement with the remaining dread guard. He is to allow Zandirath to cast Dominate Person him and will lure the scholar out of his encampment towards the Silverclaw. They will then capture the scholar and release the dread guard from his contract.
• Zandirath instructs him to head towards the scholar's location, while the group tails him. They will provide further instruction close to the location.
• As the group rounds the corner they see a hulking stone giant in the middle of the courtyard, the group decides to avoid the giant and instead move through the buildings to the south of the giant, avvoiding a Minataur who also guards the alleyway to the east. Zimkar leads the way and a few moments later, Zandirath brings himself, Yama, and Neris to Zimkar by casting Dimension Door.

Session 22 April 25, 2022

Armenfell is on the brink of ruin. Trolls, Stone Giants, Minotaurs, and all other manner of monstrous beast roam the streets freely, razing and reducing the capital of Weston to rubble as they go. Yet hope here remains. The Silver Claw have intel of great importance obtained at the cost of many Westonite lives. The Scholar, who seems to have a particularly cozy relationship with Di’Jaza, has made himself vulnerable by being present at the Empiric siege. Capturing him could yield important information about The Crest of Auguthur, Di’Jaza’s whereabouts, or his pending plans. Finding the scholar has not been easy however. Despite a seemingly endless supply of corpses for Yama Thula to animate as a means of distracting the dread guard, more soldiers and monsters under empiric control flood the streets. Logic would suggest that The Scholar is a fiercely intelligent man, and the Silver Claw begins to wonder how long they can remain undetected while the dead wander the streets.

As this chilling thought enters your mind, you begin to further question the motives of The Scholar. Why would he make himself vulnerable at the siege for the sadistic joy of watching the carnage? Your intelligence doesn’t point towards the scholar having any combat prowess, and no protective force can guarantee one’s survival, especially with a dangerous lot such as yourselves on the loose. There must be some other cryptic reason he chooses to be here. An ulterior motive yet undiscovered. What is his true purpose here?

Still, you must endure. The domination of a dreadguard soldier proved effective in leading the Silver Claw to the tent of The Scholar, but you must make haste before your ruse is discovered. You know not what lies within the confines of the tent, but you are certain that an asset of such value to the empire will not be unprotected. With the smell of cinders hanging in the air and the guttural growls of beasts sounding, the time has come for the Silver Claw to make their move.

• The group collects themselves and discusses how to proceed with dealing with The Scholar. The group decides to let the dominated dreadguard go into the tent and fool as many of the dreadguard inside into going outside to investigate a made up claim of undead approaching the Scholar's position.
• Before approaching Zandirath and Zimkar exchange their Boots of Teleportation and Hat of Greater Disguise, in hopes that Zandirath can disguise as the scholar, and that Zimkar can escape if things go south.
• Zimkar and Yyytr move towards the back of the tent quickly and quietly. In doing so they manage to avoid detection from the stone giant positioned behind the tent.
• Zandirath approaches as the dominated dreadguard moves to the tent and tells the guards out front that he has an urgent message for Gurshak. The guards allow him to enter.
• As this happens Yama Thula raises the ghouls and ghasts to begin attacking other dreadguard within view of the tent.
• Gurshak and the Scholar grow skeptical that the Silverclaw could be up around given that the Silverclaw have a necromancer in their group.
• Growing concerned that the stong giant and Gurshak may be too much to handle, Yama sends an undead towards it successfully distracting it.
• As the conversation with the scholar progresses he becomes increasingly suspicious, and eventually asserts the dreadguard they are in conversation with is dominated, and Gurshak strikes him, immediately killing the dreadguard.
• Zimkar sneaks into the tent, and begins to study the scholar with a death attack. After the three rounds Zimkar death attacks the scholar paralyzing him and applying Purple Worm Poison with the strike.
• Yyytr casts Snowball and throws it at Gurshak who successfully shakes off the worst of the effects.
• Neris bursts into the tent and swings at Gurshak dealing a heavy blow before he is able to react to the halfling's presence.
• Yama casts Hold Person on Gurshak but he seems unaffected. He also instructs his undead to attack the dreadguard in the area, managing to sicken one of the dreadguard out front.
• On Gurshak's turn he flies into a rage and intimates everyone in the area, inflicting shaken on the whole party.
• Yyytr then summons two cyclops one cuts through the tent and the other grabs the scholar and pulls him out of the tent.
• Neris swings at Gurshakonce and deals heavy damage, but the second attack misses slightly.
• Zimkar takes a step outside the hides, while Zandirath tells the scholar: "I am going to cast teleport on you, if you do not come willingly, Zimkar will kill you and take your body with him." Zandirath casts Teleport and he, Yama, Yyytr, and The Scholar disapear from sight.
• Upon arrival at the dwarven thrown, Zandirath presents the Scholar to the dwarven king, and Yyytr begins to strip him down in search of the rune he mentioned Da'Jaza gave him.
• Gurshak swings at Neris and deals a devastating series of blows before she escapes out of the tent. There Neris and Zimkar teleport back to the Dwarven throne room, meeting back with the rest of the Silverclaw.

Session 23 May 16, 2022

Lying at your feet is a middle aged lump of a man. Still weakened by the poison coursing through his veins, he lies motionless, face down at the feet of Lord Guther. The Silver Claw accomplished their task to perfection, slipping into and out of a warzone with their payload in tow. Your curiosity is piqued however; what secrets lie behind the gray and emotionless exterior of the Scholar? Only time, and quite possibly interrogation, will tell. Other questions still race through your minds as the scholar wheezes and gasps on the floor. How powerful is this emissary of the Empire? Does his presence threaten the safety of Dursdale and the revolution against the Empire? If the Scholar was indeed a man of great power, why was it so easy to bring him in subdued? Still, your overwhelming desire to learn of Di’Jaza’s plans makes this a risk worth taking…

Lord Guther stares down at the man before you with an expression of equal parts intrigue and malice. With a motion of his golden gauntleted hand, two Dursdalian Guards step forward and place manacles on the Scholar’s hands and feet. Will this be sufficient to hold him back? You can’t help but wonder. As the potency of the poison begins to wane, you can only hope all will become clear.

• The group asks if there is a location in the keep that is used for interrogations, some place where magic cannot be performed. The king responds and points the group to a room where there are manacles along the back wall and an Antimagic Field inscribed along the walls in the room.
• The group ties up The Scholar and leave him in the room with a pair of Dursdale guards as the group decides on the line of questions to ask The Scholar.

• Questions

  • What is your name? Tharimus Alidor
  • Where is the Duke? After some questioning The Scholar says that the duke was transported by magical means to the crypt of an ancient king, and was likely devoured by a giant spider at this point.
  • What magical creatures are under Di'Jaza's employ? He mentions that there is a ledger in his personal affects that the group took, and implies that the information is in there.
  • How does Di'Jaza maintain a connection with a with all of his creatures? Tharimus seems to be hesitant to reveal this information, but eventually mentions that it is the Crest of Auguthur. He mentions that the Crest was something that he helped Di'Jaza procure.
  • How did you help acquire the Crest of Auguthur? At this, Tharimus asks for a guarantee that his life will be spared in return for the information he provides.
  • As Zandirath questions Tharimus, he mentions that he knows what it is like to undo one's life's work, to which the Scholar recoils. The Scholar mentions that he is being chased even now as he speaks. The Scholar mentions that the Crest of Auguthur is imbued with the power of Hextor and the beasts that it ensnares cannot be released, except for by the wielder of the Crest, by the Crest's destruction or the death of the wielder Marihla (daughter of Hextor).
  • Marihla approached The Scholar and asked that he help Di'Jaza to use the Crest of Auguthur as much as possible, he continues to say that Neshum was anchored to the nine hells by Hextor and his sister Zura because he wanted to immediately conquer the material planes, while Hextor and Zura where more interested in the infighting between the demons. Marihla is in Neshum's inner court, and thus wants the Crest used to bring the nine hells and the material planes closer together.
  • Di'Jaza has no idea that the usage of the Crest is bringing the two planes closer together.
  • How did you find the Crest? I didn't; Marihla found it for me.
  • How do you conduct your research? The Scholar looks in the libraries and finds information about where a new creature for Di'Jaza may be located. He then tells Di'Jaza who personally goes to this location with only Vilgax to dominate the beast.
  • What is he searching for next? There a titan or giant near Dursdale, and perhaps a Dragon Turtle off the southern coast of Rutgar, the third and possibly most likely. North of Rutgar in the mountains there may be a considerably strong black dragon. The dragon also appears in writings hundreds of years old.
• A load knocking sounds at the door, and a voice orders to the Silverclaw to come out. Zimkar stays behind in the room in order to keep an eye on Tharimus. The remainder of the Silverclaw run out of the room and see the Dulin brothers in the room with weapons drawn and in the center of the room stands a humanoid looking woman with small horns at the crown of her head. She appears to be Marihla
• Zandirath casts Mage Armor combat begins. Marihla's form changes suddenly, with her lower half growing tentacles. She raises her hand and three creatures spring into existence around her.
• Zimkar moves forward and attacks one of the Erinyeses and Yama follows up with a strike of his Brilliant Energy short sword. Yyytrr tells the guards to get backup, moves out of the room and casts Summon Nature's Ally IV, summoning two Cyclopes who attack two different Erinyes. Zandirath casts Shield on himself, before moving away from the fight and towards the throne.
• Zimkar strikes at the Erinyes again and drives his rapier into the devil's throat, killing it. Yama casts Unholy Ice, but the javelins melt upon arrival on Marihla's flesh. Yyytrr casts Summon Nature's Ally IV, and summons two more Cyclopes, and commands them all to charge. Zandirath moves over and casts Lightning Bolt.

Session 24 June 03, 2022

• Marihla raises her hand and black tendrils flood the area, grappling all creatures in the hall. Most of those who are grappled attempt to break free, Yama, Amorynth, Zimkar, Neris, and Yyytrr fail. Zandirath casts Dimension Door and moves between Zimkar and Neris
• Marihla unleashes a series of attacks on the cyclops nearest her, dealing heavy damage. All those who are grappled continue to take damage. Zandirath and Zimkar notice that the Bo is looking worse for the ware. Both Harby and Darby break free of the grapple. Zimkar uses Zandirath's boots of teleportation to teleport between Neris and Bo. Zandirath attempts to cast an Ice Storm
• Gerath Galton bursts through the back doors, riding with his lance strikes Marihla, breaking her concentration on the spell which grappled the whole King's hall. Marihla lets out a shriek and begins to rise up in the air, reaching a height of about 15 feet, and she casts Enthrall on the group.
• Neris moves forward and strikes a summoned Erinyes dealing damage. The Cyclops reach for Marihla dealing damage and freeing Gerath from her clutches. Zimkar uses his hat of disguise to enlarge himself and reach up to Marihla.
• Neris swings at the Erinyes, striking with three powerful attacks ultimately cleaving the Erinyes in two. Bo casts a lightning bolt striking Marihla. Gerath climbs back onto his horse and rides back prepping to take another pass on his horse. Marihla looks around in dismay at the scene and says "You blithering fools!" and casts Teleport leaving the throne room empty in an instant.

Session 25 June 15, 2022

A deal with the Devil. Well not THE devil rather… But a powerful handmaiden devil named Mahrila nonetheless. Under duress and threat of horrors and torture unimaginable, The Scholar did indeed provide valuable information as to Di’Jaza’s future plans. However, it certainly is distressing that his devilish overlord escaped with her life. Yet another powerful enemy still on the loose. Had it not been for the annoyingly pious Paladin Gareth Galto, the tides of battle may indeed have taken a turn for the worse, even if The Claw may be unwilling to admit it… The Silver Claw is under no illusion that Mahrila is gone for good, in fact her return seems as inevitable as the passage of time. Preparations must be made for her return if the Silver Claw is to survive.

But there is precious little time to ruminate over this disturbing reality, as even now Di’Jaza likely moves to ensnare another chromatic dragon; a black scaled wyrm in the mountains north of Rutgar. This certainly seems his most likely target, as its close proximity to Rutgar presents the least possibility of Di’Jaza being placed in harms way. Furthermore, adding another dragon to his ranks would likely tip the scales of war decidedly in Rutgar’s favor. Repelling Vilgax and the army of monsters proved an insurmountable task for the people of the Republic of Weston, and with a second of the dragonkin, the fall of Dursdale would surely follow in short order. Not even to mention what this might mean for the encroachment of the Nine Hells onto the material plane. While the Silver Claw remains in the dark about how exactly using of the Crest of Auguther bridges the two planes, if the strength of the beast ensnared has anything to do with their entwinement, ensnaring a black dragon could cause unleash untold numbers of hellspawn onto the material plane. At any rate, the time has finally arrived to strike back at the mad tyrant who ousted you from your once elite status. Foiling Di’Jaza’s plans would be oh so satisfying, wouldn’t you agree?

• Taking an account of the fight, it is clear Culbi is near death. The two guards who were guarding the room to the scholar are dead. The group sends Bo off to summon lord Guther, and Culbi to seek medical aid
• The group checks in on the scholar, who is still in the chamber. They ask how soon he thinks Di'Jaza will move on the black dragon. The scholar says that he mentioned it to Di'Jaza about a week ago.
• When asked if Tharimus thinks Di'Jaza will do anything differently knowing that he has been captured. The scholar says that Di'Jaza trusts him and will likely not alter his course as a result.
• The group decides to speak with the scholar to get an idea of where to go next. Zandirath asks the scholar if she knows how Mahrila found him here. He says that she seems to always knows where he is and who he is talking to.
• While the scholar was working at a research institution he was approached by a beautiful woman who took an interest in his work. She asked him to get close to Di'Jaza and gain his trust. If he swore on his life that he would do this, she would help him after the war was over to gain his own lands to reign over.
• Yama mentions that they are considering killing the scholar in the hopes that she will not be able to track him in death. The group says that they can reincarnate him later. The probable change in appearance from the reincarnation could even help disguise him and help him keep a lower profile.

Session 26 June 27, 2022

How does one stop a mad Tyrant with a magical armament of godlike power from ensnaring a second dragon? This is the question the Silver Claw is now faced with as they make preparations to attempt just that. Is attempting to reason with the dragon the best move? As an intelligent creature, this may hold promise… but the real threat of becoming the arrogant overgrown lizard’s next meal is ever present. Perhaps another method will be employed by the Silver Claw? Whatever the tactic utilized in the coming effort, success is vital for the future of the realm. Should Di’Jaza be successful in ensnaring this beast, the coming battles would prove all the more difficult.

And then there lies the pressing issue of the Handmaiden Devil, Mahrila. The Silver Claw has no doubt she will return, the only question is when. Having reached the decision to kill the scholar, the Sliver Claw remains hopeful that his death will stall Mahrila, at least for now. Should she discover the ruse of the Claw however, her wrath is sure to follow.

Reaching the mountains to the North of Rutgar will not be an easy task, as traveling closer to the empire will most certainly increase the likelihood that the Claw is discovered once again by the forces of the Empire. Their forces are strongest within Rutgar, but with any luck the Siege of Weston will keep prying eyes away. Travel on foot presents a high level of risk, so the Silver Claw will likely have to come to Rutgar by another means. Teleportation would likely be effective, but the Claw would need a place they know all too well… Has the time finally come to return to Silver Claw Manor?

• The group decides to split up. Half the group will got after Skkaa, and the other half will engage with the dragon, bringing a captured dreadguard to be dominated. They decide to divvy the party up as follows:

  • Zimkar, Zandirath, and Amorynth decide to make for the dragon
  • Yama, Neris, and Yyytr go to rescue Skkaa
• The group talks with the scholar and finds out the exact location of the Dragon from him. Zimkar moves to death attack the scholar but before the deed is done, the scholar reveals that the dragon's name is Cargabrex
• Yyytr and the rest of the group teleport to the battleground, where Skkaa was last seen. Yyytr takes to the skies as an invisible bird and begins to survey the area. He notices that there are far fewer dreadguard and giants in the area than when they last were there.
• Yama begins to raise the dead in the area as Yyytr scouts above

• Yyytr casts Commune with Nature.

  • He learns that there is the presence of multiple powerful unnatural creatures, senses lots of death, and doesn't sense the presence of any bodies of water in the area.
• Next he casts Detect Animals or Plants to begin locating Skkaa. As he flies above, he detects the presence of a snake in the forest.
• The second group teleports to a market just east of the manor and arrives inside a building with several people staring. Zandirath introduces himself as Burlo Fartwig (pronounce that how you wish). The group successfully plays off their teleportation as a magic performance. The group makes their way to Silverclaw manor and notices several dreadguard standing outside. There Zandirath casts Detect Magic.
• The group in Armenfell moves forward through the city to look for Skkaa by foot, while Yyytrr looks from above.
• Back at the manor Zandirath moves along the manor facing it with his cone of detect magic. He doesn't detect the presence of magic at all in the manor, the group decides instead to head out of the city and begins to head towards the location of the black dragon (a few miles outside the city), bringing the dominated dreadguard along with them.
• As the group heads out of the city, a dreadguard approaches them and asks what business they have in the north. Zandirath deceives him and the dreadguard mentions that they should steer clear of the imperial convoy, we surmise this means Di'Jaza is already making his way for the black dragon
• As they move deeper into the north they come across a campsite, that appears to be the hallmark of the imperial troops. The coals are still warm, but there is evidence of water having been poured over the fire. They must be close.
• The Armenfell group engages in the streets with a Minotaur, and a couple of dreadguard.
• As the fight progresses Yyytr is able to locate Skkaa in the forest.

Session 27 August 1, 2022

Remnants of a campfire, smoke still rising from the embers at its ashen base. The Silver Claw is close, in fact, the closest to their quarry they’ve ever been since being ousted from the Empire by the Mad Tyrant himself. Hot on the trail, the Claw is well aware of just how time sensitive their mission is. Though his methods still remain shrouded in mystery, clearly Di’Jaza has the utmost confidence in his ability to ensnare Cargabrex. His convoy cannot be far ahead, which means, The Empire of Rutgar is drawing ever closer to adding a second dragon to their ranks.

But not all hope is lost. Di’Jaza is known to the Claw to be a paranoid man, and he would not risk his neck, or the Crest that hangs from it, without bringing a large and deadly entourage with him. A war party of such size cannot be moving with great haste, and therein lies the Claw’s advantage. Though he seems exposed, challenging Di’Jaza without a means of thwarting the Crest seems utterly hopeless. Without an instant kill secured, it would be all too easy for Di’Jaza to claim the Claw for his own rather than face them in open combat. No, hope must instead lie with Cargabrex himself, Black Dragon of untold years. The mighty Dragon must in his years of wisdom be able to be reasoned with, if he cannot be, perhaps hope is already lost. With hope lying in the ability of men to convince a man eater of an imminent threat, the situation is truly dire. But without a better, or safer alternative, the Claw has no choice but to cling to what hope remains.

• The group in Armenfell continues to fight with the Minataur and remaining Dreadguard. Neris manages to land a deadly blow, slicing open the Minataur's midsection.
• Moments later Yyytrr arrives and casts Snowball. After a few moments, Yyytrr transforms back into his human form and casts Teleport from Zandirath's boots of teleportation.
• The group arrives in the sewers near Silverclaw manner. They come to the surface and Yyytrr burrows under the city walls headed towards Zimkar, Zandirath, and Amornyth. The reunited group moves towards the northeast, heading towards the Di'Jaza's forces.
• Along the way the group sees a smattering of campfires indicating a large force. Yama is able to track the group. The tracks appear to sink into the earth as though the creators where wearing heavy armor. There appear to be several very large footprints possibly belonging to a Troll, along with a set of parallel deep grooves on either side of the large footprints.
• Examining the tracks the group concludes that Di'Jaza's forces are not taking the most direct route to the dragon's lair. The group decides to head to the lair in the most direct path, attempting the beat the remaining force to it.
• Yyytrr summons a collection of large vultures to carry the group approximately a thousand feet before disappearing. The group continues on foot the remaining distance, at some point overtaking Di'Jaza's group. As they do they see two large trolls pulling a cart which appears very heavy but not large enough to be a machine of war. Along with the trolls there is a group of roughly 75-100 dreadguard, the largest collection we've seen so far. In the middle of dreadguard is Gurshak, and another human who bears a striking resemblance to the scholar.
• The group is about an hour away from the closest known location of the lair, while the war party will arrive within a day or so.
• The group arrives at the sight of a frozen lake. The lake is the closest landmark that the scholar offered the Silverclaw. The lake is supposed to be quite close to Cargabrex's lair.
• After some discussion, Yyytrr morphs into a fish and swims below the icy surface of the lake. Eventually, Yyytrr finds a below ground cave that he things a human might be able to survive the swim to. Yyytrr comes back and guides the dreadguard to the entrance of the cave.
• Zandirath casts Scrying on the dreadguard to be able to see in a 10ft sphere around him. Zandirath bids the dreadguard to call out to Cargabrex, saying that his master has a special message for him of grave importance. The dreadguard approaches a long pathway and calls out once more. This time a response comes from the darkness. Cargabrex emerges from the shadow, and begins to speak with the dreadguard.
• Cargabrex claims that he's heard of the Silverclaw and of the crest of Arguthur, despite Zandirath making no mention of the crest. Cargabrex says that he has followers which brings him gold, and information where they can. He says that he is already aware that Di'Jaza is moving on his lair and seems unconcerned. Eventually, Cargabrex seems to grow tired of discussing with the dominated dreadguard and instead asks the Silverclaw to join him in his lair.

Session 28 August 22, 2022

Invited into a dragon’s lair? The Silver Claw are no strangers to dangerous situations, but to enter the lair of a Black Dragon? The most cruel and ruthless of chromatic dragon kind? This is a new level of danger, even for such an elite batch of warriors. But in Cargabrex’s invitation there also lies an intriguing morsel of information. If Cargabrex is already aware of the Crest of Auguthur, then perhaps he is aware of its power to dominate him. Black Dragons, despite their otherworldly might, are little more than cowardly bullies, though, calling Cargabrex one might be ill advised. Scrolls written on dragonkind have detailed stories of Black Dragons forfeiting their treasure and even their young when their lives are threatened. Some ancient texts have even chronicled Black Dragons forming alliances when they are cornered or fear for their lives. Those same scrolls also detail those same Dragons turning on their allies the moment the danger has passed to snuff out any evidence that they sought help, so a healthy dose of skepticism and caution is certainly the best path forward. Still, it seems that Cargabrex has a vested interest in keeping you alive, for now. What his true motivations are you cannot be sure, but a dragon of such age must have the wisdom to understand its current predicament. The Claw must gamble on the hope that Cargabrex’s desire to retain free will outweighs his desire to decorate his lair with fresh corpses to consume once the rot has set in. The question of Di’Jaza’s plan to ensnare the dragon still weighs heavily on your minds however. By what means does he intend to reach Cargabrex alive? What lies within the cart being drugged along by the trolls? Where is Di’Jaza? Without answers to these questions, the Claw is weary of a close engagement with the Dreadguard. If Di’Jaza is indeed hidden within their ranks, his ability to ensnare his enemies is of paramount concern. The Claw cannot risk losing one of their members to Di’Jaza’s influence. A plan must be developed therefore, and perhaps Cargabrex agrees.

• The group decides that it would be best to accept Cargabrex's offer, to avoid potentially offending him, a scenario which seemed somehow worse than meeting him.
• The group swims alongside Yyytrr, some being dragged by him. At first as they are swimming the waters are quite deep, but as they enter the cave, the water becomes more shallow, stagnate, and polluted with all manor of fungus and corpses float along the shallow waters.
• The group advances along the path, staying close together as to be able to teleport away if needed. As they approach they hear the voice of Cargabrex calling out.
• In rage Cargabrex lashes out killing the dreadguard the group had used as a proxy. He says the group should have come directly to him, without a messenger. The Silver Claw tell Cargabrex that a war band is approaching which will be here by nightfall. The war band included more dreadguard than the Silver Claw had ever seen, and two trolls carrying a very larger enclosure.
• Cargabrex asks for more information but the group pushes back asking for some information from him before proceeding. Cargabrex throws the corpse of a devil in front of the group. He says that he had never seen Demons or Devils in his area before, but now he sees them frequently. He says that he had tortured the Demon at great length before killing it. The Demon mentioned before it died that the Crest of Arguthur cannot be used on Demons or devils.
• The group tells Cargabrex that the more the crest is used, the more Demons will come through the growing rift in the worlds. The Silver Claw tell him that this could grow so bad that the nine hells and the material plane become one and the same. Cargabrex seems to concede that this would be a problem.
• Cargabrex reveals that he also learned that the crest has no affect on the dead. So if the Silver Claw were to die, they would be immune to its powers. The group agrees this would be last resort.
• Cargabrex proposes that Zandirath creates an illusion of Cargabrex. If Di'Jaza were to attempt to use the crest of Arguthur on the illusion, it would use its power which can only be used once per day, leaving him vulnerable. The group agrees this would be a good option, but it would still be difficult to fight against the strength of Di'Jaza and Vilgax.
• Cargabrex mentions that his lair has another entrance, one not known to any but himself. Zandirath notes that given that Di'Jaza and Vilgax were not present in the approaching group that perhaps they had found out about the second entrance and were approaching from that direction now.
• This prompts Cargabrex to ask about the scholar. He asks whether the scholar told them where to find the entrance to his cave, they say that the scholar never mentioned any specifics about the location of Cargabrex's lair just that it was near the lake.
• Cargabrex asks whether the scholar was also under the influence of the Crest. The Silver Claw tell him that he was not under the influence of the crest, but rather willingly helped Di'Jaza. The scholar was tricked by a devil into believing that if he helped Di'Jaza he would be rewarded with incredible magical gifts and power beyond his dreams.
• The group tells Cargabrex that the Devil who tricked the scholar was Marihla, believed to be an assistant of Neshm. Cargabrex offers his help to the group in exchange for the crest. The Silver Claw decide that they have very few options, and few reservations about reneging on promises, so they accept the offer. The Silver Claw believe that Cargabrex has little use for the crest and that he will keep it as a prized possession, defending it from would be thieves.
• Cargabrex leads the group back further into his lair and points out a chest behind which Zimkar could hide and prepare to attack Di'Jaza when he attempts to use the crest on the illusion of Cargabrex.
• The group settles on having the real Cargabrex, Amorynth, and Zandirath to hide up above near the secret entrance his lair. Meanwhile Zimkar, Yyytrr, and Neris will hide in the large chest near the illusion.
• The group begins to make preparations for the ambush, estimating that about 3 hours have passed since they began to speak with Cargabrex. Cargabrex takes to the sky and flies towards the top of the cave near stalagmites where the secret entrance lays. Amorynth fashions a net to catch himself and Zandirath should either of them fall from the height top of the cave. The remaining group tuck themselves away in the ornate chest in a field of gold, revenge on their minds.

Session 29 June 19, 2024 Brandon, Caleb, Cameron, Frank

Level Up 👆️ 1️⃣3️⃣

• The group got together to make import their characters into Foundry VTT!

Flickering torchlight dances off the ancient stone walls of the dwarven city, casting eerie shadows as the ominous sound of devilish roars echoes through the once bustling streets. The air is thick with the acrid scent of smoke and the metallic tang of blood as the siege by hordes of devils furthers.

The Silver Claw, weary and battle-worn, huddles together within the fortress of the city, their weapons at the ready as they brace for yet another onslaught from the devilish forces. The streets are littered with the debris of war - shattered buildings, overturned carts, and the fallen bodies of brave dwarven warriors who fought valiantly to defend their home.

Above, the sky is a swirling vortex of dark clouds, tinged with the sickly glow of infernal magic. Lightning crackles across the heavens, illuminating the twisted forms of winged devils swooping down to attack from above. j The Silver Claw is bloodied and bruised. A litany of oozing lacerations and bloody puncture wounds marr your exhausted husks, and without magical healing, you’re not sure if you’d still be standing. But a respite is not given freely in Resmuthya these days, and to earn one the Silver Claw must ensure that the fall of humanity does not occur during their slumber. The armies of Dursdale are normally quite capable, and have managed to thwart the Empire’s attempts to conquer Dursdale for decades. But Dursdales’ armies are gone to war, leaving behind a town garrison woefully ill prepared to make battle with devilkind. A cruel bit of irony strikes you now, as Dursdale in its current state would likely have fallen in a Coup attempt by the Claw… Di’Jaza in his foolishness cast you out at the very moment your usefulness peaked. What a presumptuous half wit.

But alas, killing Di’Jaza in the most brutal and abhorrent way imaginable will have to wait, as The Claw must first discover the location of his devilish captor. This circles us back to the current predicament; finding a way to get a good night’s rest. If the city can hold just long enough… the Claw can return with the strength to do what must be done.

Despite the odds stacked against you, the Silver Claw knows that they must stand firm and continue to fight if they are to have any hope of saving sentient life from extinction. With grim determination, you steel yourselves for the coming battle, knowing that you may be the only thing standing against annihilation at the hands of the infernal invaders. The hells are upon you.

Session 30 July 25, 2024 Brandon, Caleb, Cameron, Frank

• Before interogating the icedevil Bratu, Neris instructs the other devils to back away, hoping that the devil will be more willing to talk if the others are not around.

• Despite Neris' attempts the icedevil does not seem intimidated, and instead doubles down on the insults calling the party foolish for not seeing what the real plan is.

  • Our minds are brought back to Caprikus' Tomb wondering if the door deep in its recesses holds the key to Marihla's plans
• As Yyytr intimidates the devil, it becomes clear that the icedevil is fearful of going back to the 9 hells.
• Di'Jaza still has some use left to Marihla; the crest of Arguthur of still under his control
• Bratu implies that in order to undo the crest's influence, we would need to go to Neshmnaar.
• Neshmnaar is a large city in the hells, and a manufacturer of weapons in the hells. Bratu says that the crest was forged in Neshmnaar, but the crest that exists in this plane is not the same as the crest that is currently in Neshmnaar, there is another half of the crest.

Session 31 August 7, 2024 Brandon, Caleb, Cameron, Frank

It’s all starting to make sense. After sealing away the Ice Devil Braatu within the keep’s antimagic cell, The Silver Claw gathers in Dursdale’s dimly lit throne room. A silence lies heavy in the air, and an almost palpable tension quickens your hearts. Flickering light from the torches dances and shifts against the cold stone walls, adding to the sense of urgency and danger that now surrounds you. The weight of Claw’s recent discovery hangs about the room like an iron curtain, as each member of the Claw now contemplates the gravity of their situation.

In an age long past, the Devil Asmodeus stole an infernal secret from Vecna, one that told of the interconnectedness between the Nine Hells and the Material plane. Though you are unaware of the means by which Neshm acquired this secret, it is clear that he used it to create two Crests, one that lies on the material plane, The Crest of Auguthur, and one that resides within the depths of Neshm’s domain, Neshmnaar. These two crests are bound to one another through an ancient and terrible infernal pact that was lost to the ages with the passing of Caprikus and the drow mage on his court who forged it. Neshm and his servant Mahrila somehow learned of the whereabouts of the crest and guided Di'Jaza to uncover it, knowing that in his greed and lust for power he would use it. Blind to its consequences, Di’Jaza unwittingly thinned the veil between the planes, bringing Neshm and Mahrila closer to their ultimate goal. Through use of the Crest, Neshm’s infernal chains were broken, and he escaped to the material plane, but his whereabouts remain unknown. Now, with the Crest charged with infernal magic, Mahrila intends to use it as a key, one that could potentially open a gate to the Nine Hells. You shudder at the thought.

The revelation lies heavy on your hearts. Stopping a full scale invasion of the material plane will require unmaking the Crest within Neshmnaar, the infernal fortress of war to which its magic is anchored. The Silver Claw needs a plan. Stopping Mahrila and thwarting Neshm's plans will require every ounce of your strength and cunning, and the path ahead leads directly to the Nine Hells.

• Neshm orchestrated the creation of the two crests and was punished for it by Hextor, although its not clear if Neshm himself directly created the crests, or if he just oversaw it.
• After getting healing potions, and other supplies the group decides to move forward with its plan to visit Capricus' Tomb.
• Zandirath decides to cast Scrying on Ossius Bonecraft, the vampire currator of the Tomb.
• Upon casting the spell Zandirath is met with a horrific scene. Ossius is bound by metal chains, and can be seen hanging from the ceiling. A stake is driven through his heart.

In the dim, torch-lit chamber, you see Ossius Bonecraft. His wrists are shackled by heavy iron chains that suspend him above the cold stone floor. His once formidable presence is now a picture of torment and decay. A thick, jagged wooden stake protrudes from his chest, the tip stained with dark, congealed blood where it pierced his undead heart. The stake throbs with a faint, sinister glow, a symbol of the eternal agony it inflicted.

His pallid skin, once smooth and unblemished, is now marred with deep, crimson carvings. Infernal runes, etched by a cruel hand, spiral across his body in an unholy testament to his sins. Each symbol is a curse, a painful reminder of his blasphemy against Neshm the usurper. The runes pulsate with malevolent energy, their sickly red light casting grotesque shadows on the damp walls.

Ossius's eyes, now a dull, lifeless gray, stare unseeing into the void. His face, framed by long, bloodied hair, twists in a permanent grimace of suffering. His mouth hangs open in a silent scream, revealing elongated fangs that once struck fear into the hearts of his enemies. Now, they are useless, a cruel reminder of his former power.

Around him, the chamber is filled with the stench of decay and the faint echo of dark incantation. Ossius Bonecraft, once a feared ally of the Silver Claw, now hangs as a broken symbol of defiance. His alliance bought him power and respect, but his unwillingness to abide by Neshm led to his downfall. Now, he is nothing more than a twisted, tormented figure, a warning to any who would dare defy the will of the Usurper.

• After consuming all but 2 cure serious wound potions, the group decides to venture forth and teleport into Ossius' chamber directly hoping to take anyone by surprise who is still in the chamber. However, upon their arrival the room is empty and no sounds can be heard.
• Yyytr notices that despite being dead, Ossius' hand appears to be currled into a pointing motion, with the index finger directing attention downward towards the side of the alter.

• Zimkar moves to investigate the side of the alter, finding two buttons that when pressed together reveal a hidden cavity within the alter.

  • Inside is a roughly human sized and very ornate looking blacksmith's hammer. The hammer is made from a very dark iron, of the sort often used in the creation of Drow weaponary. The hammer also contains Infernal writing on the script, which Zandirath interprets as:

    "With this strike, dominion attained, Power forged, and mastery gained."

• Zandirath casts Detect magic on the hammer, finding that the hammer's aura is overwhelming (must have been constructed by at least a level 21 caster).

• On further examination Zandirath surmises that hammer was likely used in the creation of the crests, and that it is likely required in order to destroy the crests as well.

  • Bratu had also mentioned during his interrogation that the crest could only be unmade in the fires of the nine hells. Specifically, within the forges of Neshmnar
• The group exits the personal chapel of Ossius and out into the larger tomb, quietly making their way deeper into the tomb.
• As they reach the eastern coridor, the doors to the once sealed chamber appear open.

Session 32 August 21, 2024 Caleb, Cameron, Frank

The air within Caprikus' Tomb is thick with an ancient, suffocating dread. Every step the Silver Claw takes echoes through the labyrinthine corridors, your breath misting in the chill that clings to these forgotten halls. The stone walls, once adorned with the inscriptions of a long-lost civilization, now bear the scars of a far more sinister presence—claw marks, scorch lines, and runes of infernal origin pulse faintly in the flittering darkness.

Ahead, the party stands before a massive, iron-bound door that hangs ajar. From beyond, the ominous hum of infernal whispers fills the air, a cacophony of malevolence weaving together in an unholy chant. The words are in a tongue older than time itself, yet their meaning is unmistakable—a summoning, a plea, a demand for power. The very stones of the tomb seem to tremble as the chant rises, filling the Silver Claw's hearts with a sense of impending doom.

Di'Jaza, the Mad Tyrant who unearthed a most unholy and forgotten relic, has been taken—abducted by Mahrila, pawn of the Archdevil Neshm. With him, the Crest of Auguthur has once again fallen into the hands of those who intend to fulfill its evil purpose. The ritual she performs is no simple incantation; it is a rite to tear open the fabric of reality, to bridge the mortal realm and the Nine Hells. A portal that, once opened, will bring untold destruction.

You know the stakes. You know the dangers. The Crest of Auguthur cannot be destroyed here—it must be unmade in the forges of Neshmnaar, the Fortress within the Nine Hells where its infernal twin resides. But every moment spent here, every second that ticks by, brings Mahrila closer to unleashing Neshm’s full wrath upon the world.

Is the Archdevil himself here, watching, waiting? The very thought sends a shiver down your spine. But there is no time for hesitation. You must press on, for the fate of all hangs in the balance.

The door before you is the final barrier between your world and the abyss. Beyond it, Mahrila performs her blasphemous rite, her voice rising as she seeks the dark power to fulfill her dark ambitions. And beyond that, in the very heart of the Nine Hells, lies the only place where the Crest of Auguthur can be truly undone. The time has come to act, Silver Claw. The fate of the world, and perhaps your very souls, depends on what you do next.

• As the group enters the corridoor, they hear the voice of Mahrillah in the next room reading aloud an incantation
• They decide to ambush her in the room, and as they approach, they see that where the two doors to the room meet, an indentation the shape of the crest is present.
• However, the left door is partially ajar. The group notes that the doors hinges are rather old looking and would likely make noise, and instead opts to burst into the room quickly and take Mahrila by surprise

The Silver Claw bursts into the central chamber of the Capricus’ tomb, drawn by an ominous sense of foreboding that hangs heavy in the air. The room is bathed in an eerie, crimson light that seems to emanate from the very walls themselves, casting grotesque shadows that dance and flicker across the floor.

At the center of the chamber stands a circular dais, upon which rests a swirling vortex of dark energy, pulsating with malevolent power. The air crackles with the smell of brimstone and the sound of distant screams, a chilling threat against those who dare venture closer.

Standing before the swirling mass of infernal energy is a figure cloaked in shadow, her form obscured by the dim light of the chamber. As you draw nearer, you recognize Mahrila, her skin a sickly shade of gray and her eyes gleaming with malice. She holds aloft the Crest of Auguthur, a now twisted and unrecognizable symbol of infernal power, and chants infernal incantations in a voice that cause your skin to crawl.

• The group succeeded in catching Mahrila by surprise, and used the time to close the gap with her and Di'Jaza, Zandirath laying down an Ice Storm on their location
• As the group descended on Mahrila, black tentacles errupted around her ensnaring several of the party members. Neris broke free, and eventually Zandirath cast Dispel Magic and purged the tentacles freeing the other members of the party
• In the meantime Skaa managed to wrap himself around Di'Jaza. Then opening his giant viper mouth, he swallows Di'Jaza whole. The object of the Silver Claws fear and hatred for so long, devoured in an instant without his enslaved creatures for protection
• Yyytr summons a Stone Giant, commanding it to take the book that Mahrila was using as part of the ritual, and escape with it
• But before the Stone Giant can leave, Marilla summons four Erinyes to fight, and they turn their attention to the giant holding the book
• Zandirath casts Chain Lightning targeting Mahrila and three of the Erinyes, killing one that Neris had injured
• Finally, Skaa gets on top of Mahrila grappling and eventually pinning her to the floor. Allowing Zimkar to deal the killing blow with his rapier

As Mahrila crumples, her form flickering between the ethereal and the physical, she gasps out the final words of her dark incantation. Her voice, laced with desperation and fury, echoes through the chamber, each word tinged with the bitter essence of the Nine Hells.

"By the blood of the fallen, by the ash of the damned, I bind this world to the will of Neshm! Let the flames of his dominion blaze forth, and the veil between worlds be torn!"

With the last syllable, her eyes blaze with a brief, terrible light before dimming as her strength ebbs away. The chamber shudders violently, the ancient stone walls groaning in protest as an ominous crimson light pulses from the center of the room. The air thickens and the very ground beneath the party’s feet trembles as if the world itself is recoiling in fear.

The shadows in the room seem to stretch and twist, drawn toward the forming rift that threatens to tear the fabric of reality apart. Mahrila’s body dissolves into dark mist, carried away on the gathering storm of hellish energy.

As you look on in horror, a new form steps from the swirling mass of infernal energy into plain view. Neshm, the Pit Fiend, looms before the Silver Claw like a living nightmare. As he steps through the gate, its power almost seems to wane, as if granting the infernal duke passage required a tremendous amount of energy. He raises his chained hands, and the very ground trembles beneath his power, the air vibrating with the force of his rage.

"At last, the chains of Neshmnaar have faltered, and I return to this wretched plane, reborn in fire and vengeance. Your pitiful victory over my most beloved, Mahrila, shall be your undoing, for her sacrifice has rendered me unshackled. You shall suffer for an age, Silver Claw, for daring to lay waste to that which is mine. Each of you shall taste the bitter sting of my wrath, and your screams shall echo in the darkest depths of the Hells."

One word uttered by Neshm hangs in your minds like a glimmer of hope. Reborn? Does this mean that Neshm somehow lost his battle with Di’Jaza’s dominated dragon Vilgax and returned to Neshmnaar? It could be possible, given that you dared not stick around to see the inevitable conclusion of their battle. As this thought trickles into your mind, the archdevil's crimson stare meets you for a moment, his eyes burning with an infernal rage born of his thousands of years of imprisonment.

"When I have ground your bones to dust and your souls are twisted in eternal agony, I shall reclaim the Crest of Auguthur and tear this world asunder. The gate to the Nine Hells will not merely open; it will shatter, and all of creation shall bow before me. I will ascend to dominion over this world, and not even the gods themselves shall dare challenge my reign!"

His wings unfurl, casting a shadow over the Silver Claw as his laughter, a sound of pure, unbridled evil, reverberates through the chamber. The full weight of his terrible promise hangs heavy in the air, as Neshm prepares to make good on his dark vow. However… within Neshm’s voice the claw catches a succulent undertone, as if detecting a delicious scent once so familiar. His voice is a low growl dripping with venom that shakes the very ground, yet there is a strain to it—a touch of… agony? Pain?

Only then does a revelation dawn upon you. His massive, hulking form, which should be the embodiment of infernal power, somehow seems diminished—though no less terrifying. His crimson skin is marred by deep, smoldering scars that pulsate rhythmically with an infernal glow. Jagged, iron chains still cling to his wrists and ankles, remnants of his binding within Neshmnaar. These chains, forged by the god of tyranny, still pulse with a faint but constant light, almost seeming to siphon away some of the force of his power. Neshm, Archduke of Neshmnaar, has not yet regained his full strength. Perhaps hope remains.

Neshm's eyes burn with malice, but the pain behind them betrays the chains' relentless grip. The weight of his bindings keeps him tethered, unable to fully unleash the infernal might that once would have obliterated any who dared to stand before him. Even so, the malevolent aura around him is palpable, a reminder that even in his current state, Neshm remains a formidable and dangerous adversary.

Session 33 September 26, 2024 Brandon, Caleb, Cameron, Jeremiah

• Previous emporer, and ally to the party.
• Murdered by the current
• Expansionist

• Lesser emporer

• One day he just disappeared after a fifty year dynasty
• Fell asleep in his thrown room and was never seen again

• Gargantuen red dragon, pet to Di'jaza

• New Emporer, currently chasing us

• Works for the duke of Cantebury

• International man of mystery
• Gold plated paladin guy

• A mage from the Republic of Weston
• Son of the high minister of the country
• Told to stay away from him, legend says he is blessed by the gods, apparently a very powerful mage

• Half-Orc who wields a Falchion in battle
• KBC (Killed by Cyclops)

• Powerful sorcerer
• KBC

• Friendly Dwarf aboard the airship which picked us up
• A Wizard

• The guard of the Iron Caste

• A trio of Dwarf lords who are the head of Dursdale
• Comprised of Lord Brul,

• Ra'Dulra was the first emporer called the "Silvertonuge"
• He began the empiric activities

• Describes in the period after the emporer of radulra, it took another 50 years to absorb
• Repeated references to "that which is lost"

• A very old book with yellowing pages, would crack if handled improperly
• One passage in the book references a shell, saying:\\

"O’ Crest of Power, lined with gold
Be wary as thy influence grow
Fear upon the world be reaped
The Herald’s land the world to meet"

• A scroll made of newer material is attached to the binding of the book, it contains a drawing of a necklace with a description written in Gnomish

• Cronicling investigations into an artifact which would allow you to "influence" people