Party Recap Thread

For this campaign, recaps are in the hands of the party. Also they're optional, lucky you guys.

The idea here is for you each to recap what you think are the important details and interesting ongoings in a session. Bonus points for recounting events in character.

Arkiel was relaxing on a buildingtop tavern.
He'd had a lazy day, sitting among some strangers he had met that fateful day.
Among the strangers were a black halfling, Arkiel thought he said his name was Chip.
Diana, Whom Arkiel didn't really pay much mind to in the moment.
And lastly, A monk named Sobek.
Not too long into the conversation, the group was interrupted by some civilians debating on the ground below. Being many stories up, the entire group, (Perhaps unknowingly) ran down to see what the cause of this commotion was.
Many villagers were demanding raises for the caravan they drove, against a man who looked quite wealthy.
Arkiel realized that the halfling he was earlier conversing with had wiggled his way into the crowd, and offered to take the caravan.
Before Arkiel even realized what he was doing, he had decided to accompany this halfling. Diana also decided to join in, as did the seemingly noble monk, Sobek.

Arkiel invited his new colleagues to stay at his house to rest. Ideal for a good resting place before a journey.

Arkiel Picked a fight with some gaurds. It was mediated by Sobek.

The caravan departed. A man was bribed to join. And was left at the mouth of some "haunted woods."

Midway through the woods, Arkiel recalls feeling not in control of his body. He awakens dizzy, but with his acquaintances surrounding him.

EDIT: Got lazy. Sorry for the lack of depth for the last part of this. lawl

Arkiel was astonished to find a camp filled with skinny miscreants in the center of the woods.
A massive flame burning in the center. Reminiscent of a pyre in the name of Helia.
Arkiel sneaks in, and after an awful plot in seeing if these miscreants were hostile or not, Arkiel found they were hungry and pissed off.

Arkiel then got attacked. And hastily retreated, in panic from the seriousness of his sudden wounds. From a distance, Arkiel witnessed Sebek and Diana ravage his attackers.

Eventually, the party agreed to assist the axe weilding camp members. By agreeing to help them escape the shades that plague them in the woods.
While looking for food, Diana comes into contact with a shade. Arkiel thinking back to the large fire, and the cold corpses, lights a torch and lashes out at the shade.
The light made it almost disintegrate, made it appear more solid. Less transparent. Sebek punched it to bits.

After finally exiting the forest, an elderly villager drew his last breath. No one seemed to notice it. Arkiel had a gut feeling. Bet he decided that it'd be more productive feeding the rest of the mouths. Which he did.

The company finally reached The Eyerie, But not before finding that the old man's corpse had frozen, and was bizarrely light weight. They show it to a knight in the The Eyerie. He isn't sure what to make of it, but suggests burning it. The knight then asks for the companies help.

The company soon discovers that there is a horde of people swarming the temple of The Eyerie. They're blaming the High Priestess for a famine.
The parties job is to transport a wagon of texts inside said temple, that is being horded.

A Knights Sol assists with crowd control, and the wagon makes it to the temple without a hitch. Monks unload it.
Knights then invite the party inside the Temple.

Here the party meets Chromatica. The Priestess. As well as her halfling friend, Ansee. Arkiel finds his company refreshing.
After explaining the dire circumstance of the frozen man to Chromatica. She and Ansee confirm these are things they know of, but know little of.

Chromatica then entails the help of the party, by heading into the mines and retrieving the miners, and soldiers who were trapped. Chromatica agrees to give the party some equipment. Arkiel feels a pang for Ansee's lost sister, and the knowledge that she is likely dead.

In return for salvaging the mine, Chromatica informs the party that she can give them audience with Kara. Arkiel is ecstatic at the thought of an equal world. But he's beggining to grow more worried of shadows looming in the corner of the light.

>From Sebek's POV

We had originally left from Arcanum, my companions and I!

Traveling through the benevolent woods with my companions the convoy came to a halt. Arkiel ran ahead to scout out, with Diana eloping into the woods soonafter Arkiel. I admonished the convoy to stay put as I decided to move ahead as well.
We came across a settlement of starving, desperate men. A misunderstanding had arisen, and then I had to knock one of the men unconscious. I took great care not to kill this man, as that would put a stain upon myself, and Helia. Our goddess of light is compassionate. To that end, I strived to be compassionate as well. After the battle had ended, we had learned that shades had been assaulting and tormenting these men for weeks. We decided to bring them with us in hopes we could offer them aid, and answers for ourselves. Never have a pious Monk as I, ever seen anything in the scriptures depicting these abominations. Diana was eventually attacked as well by a shade, and I managed to land some blows on it. This was during when our caravan was facing deprivation of food, so my companions and I went into the woods to obtain food.

We had come across an elderly man who was starting to freeze in a way I, nor my companions had seen. Daunted with this unprecedented freezing, in the face of the praiseworthy sun's burning heat of all things! We tasked ourselves to help this man, and to find an answer to the freezing and the shades.

Eventually, we had all come to the decision to travel to the Eyerie in search of a woman named Chromatica. She is a high priestess of Helia, so naturally I am familiar with her via the Church social structure. We felt she would be able to assist us in our current enigmas. We had dialogue with a knight on Sol(Praise the sun! <3) He informed us of another issue that was happening within the city walls. Seemingly, the problems only seemed deeper as we continued on with our goals, but our resolve remained. Unfortunately, he had pronounced the elderly man with the freezing to be dead. :C. But on the bright(sun) side, He allowed us passage into the city, in exchange if we transported a cart of goods to the monastery there.

Making our way through an acrimonious crowd of civilians, we had arrived at the monastery. We met with Chromatica and postulated issues, both hers and ours. We were quite distressed to hear she had no knowledge of the shades. Chromatica explained she had to close off the mines because of terrible happenings. She had gone down there with an inadequate amount of light and it resulted in disaster. I was shaken that such an abominable place could exist. A place, that our glorious goddess's rays could not bless. She had calmed me in my irate state of mind. Although she could not help us, we agreed to help her, and to go down into the mines.

Lastly we met a Halfling, an ostensible friend of Chromatica's. His name is Ansee. He seems amicable enough, I pray he praises the sun! He will be attending the mines with us. I can see in his eyes he has suffered, even more so will the colours of the anecdotes he told us. Helia bless us. Praise the sun, may it remain ever bright, and may we be blessed with shade. (Also I seem to have this intense attraction to Helia, But regardless, onwards with out task into the darkness!)

Arkiel is grateful for the food and shelter Chromatica has provided.

After awakening however, the masses have become quite intolerable.
Chromatica is facing them with disdain, there had been another lynching.
Arkiel screams his disdain to the crowd in the name of Helia. He seems to have made a ripple in the crowd.

Some members of house Ferrus then challenge Chromatica to a trial.
The company prepares for its endevour into the mines.

A Knights Sol named Jonah shows the company what equipment Chromatica has given to them.
There were light jars, and torches.

[From the journal of Ansee Curaan]

We have finally begun our journey to the mine. The place where my sister rests. Now that the time has come, I'm already having second thoughts. Some travelers arrived, and promised to assist us in clearing the mine. Their names are Arkiel, Diana, and Sebek. I am grateful for their help, and they ease my fears, but the task before us is a daunting one. Not least because of the events after their arrival.

The day after we finalized our plans to enter the mine, the crowd surrounding the chapel became frenzied. They had lynched another person, which infuriated Chromatica. A man accused her of being responsible for the deaths, and demanded she be tried. The crowd became caught up in his words, and Chromatica was forced to accept the trial to appease them. It will bring peace for a time, but I fear for what may happen while we are away. We do not have much time before Chromatica's sentence is handed down.

When we received the cart and supplies for our trip, we met a Knight's Sol named Johan. The words he said have given me reason to pause.

"The only ones who could've helped her are you."

I had thought clearing the mine would be the most help to her, but is it? Even now, I can still see the sadness on her face as she threw herself on the mercy of the people. I came here to ensure my sister's rest, but is that worth risking Chromatica's life? She was the one that saved me from the crowd, the very same crowd I am leaving her to now. I simply have no idea what to do now.

Arkiel bites his lip. He decides to look for the knight Loken for Chromatica, while his friends enter the mines and try to procure the bodies located there. Arkiel hopes the best for Ansee, finding his sister, but also wishes his friends good luck in the haunted depths.

Arkiel is given a Sharpclaw mount named Jack, before heading out to find Loken.
Not long after entering the woods where Loken is said to have a residence, Arkiel is jumped by three men of house Ferrus. Arkiel slays them all in self defense, however he has a burden on his heart from doing so.

Arkiel becomes poisoned during this combat, and after tying Jack to a tree, he passes out nearby.
He awakens to find a majestic, bold hooded lady before him. She speaks kind words of wisdom to Arkiel.
She informs Arkiel his dreams are being stolen from him. And he must stay appointed and on task. Also that the men of house Ferrus are his brothers. And he should not rekindle the battlethirst in man. Arkiel believes this person to be none other than Helia herself. Her magic sprouted her a flower seat. They conversed for what felt like hours, before she faded away, and Arkiel truly snapped into consciousness.

He was laying where he finished combat. Jack beside him. And a man, Loken, idly standing near him.
After introductions and a brief explanation of the situation, Loken hastily agrees to assist Chromatica. However he informs Arkiel that there is a land that Helia does not lay her warming hand upon. A barren land of nothing, where the sky ends. Loken is researching and trying to find the source of this darkness.

Arkiel returns to the temple upon Jack, a heavy rain is falling, Arkiel relishes in the cool drops soaking his body. Upon returning to The Eyerie. He meets with Chromatica briefly, who heals his wounds. He informs her the good news, and then returns Jack and heads off to meet up with his friends.

He's delighted to see his friends, however informs them the mines may flood soon.
After some minor exploration, Arkiel is attacked by a Dwarven Zombie. Frost coating it's dilated eyes. Ansee and Sebek helped Arkiel escape the Zombie.
Diana then shows Arkiel that there are tendrils from a shade, animating the corpse.
The team then defeats the corpse. Arkiel throws it in the back of the wagon. And the group begins searching for more corpses.

Arkiel only hopes that the rain water doesn't flood the mines, while they're still down there.

[From the journal of Ansee Curaan]

It would seem I didn't have to make such a decision after all. Just as we were preparing to embark, Anna appeared. I had thought the young girl was inside the temple, but apparently she had wandered off at some point. The area around the temple was still dangerous, so we decided to escort her back, and thank Helia we did. Once she made sure that Anna was safe, Chromatica told us that she had come up with another way for us to help her: In addition to returning the bodies of the miners, she wished us to find a knight named Loken. He may be able to help the people see the truth. Arkiel offered to find him, while the remainder of us would enter the mines.

Nearly the moment we departed, thunder split the sky to herald a storm that came soon after. As we neared the mines, however, our fortunes improved. Along with the guards of the mine, we were greeted by a man named Recard. He seems to show an aptitude for magic, and a level of confidence that is a welcome sight in these times. When the introductions were over, we could finally begin our descent.

I summoned Lucian once I was sure no one but us could see him. We learned our lesson about walking into towns after the first panic. It didn't take us long to find the shades. They sprang from within the walls on all sides, and in moments we were surrounded. Every light we carried went out save one: the heatless torch than Chromatica gave to us, said to never go out under normal conditions. It was this gift that helped us turn the tide. However, some of the shades were different from those I'd seen before. They resembled spiders, and one of them spat strands of darkness not unlike a web. Even so, they retained their weakness to light and we managed to defeat them.

At the tail end of our fight with the shades, Arkiel returned to lend his aid. With our group's full strength restored and more power besides, I felt better about our chances. However, I did not expect the shades to give up easily, and they did not. Soon after, we were attacked again. This time, however, it was a walking corpse that lurched from the darkness. One of the Dwarven miners, being puppeteered by strings that looked remarkably like the limbs of one of the spiderlike shades. Its flesh was incredibly tough, shrugging off blades a bolts alike; only the blessed might of Sebek's fists could break through. We were quickly able to separate the shade from it victim, and rescued the Dwarf's body.

The shades' use of the dead greatly disturbs me. We have only found one of the miners so far, but what has become of the rest of them? I shudder to think of Coura's condition in this darkness.

Still in the mines, in the midst of a rainstorm, Arkiel and his friends feel water begin pushing past their feet. They decide to delve deeper into the mines. Arkiel eventually slips and falls into a pit, knee deep in water. He notices some monstrosity gazing at him, with piercing white eyes. It charges at him.
Arkiel is prepared, yet somehow feels obsolete against such a foul creature.
Before long, blue flames surrounded Arkiel, and the water became a cold solid, holding his feet in place. The beasts claws ravaged him, the pain was unbearable. Arkiel felt there was little hope. However his friends came in to aid him.
It was a long battle, heeding the advice of his friends, Arkiel smashes a jar of light at the ice encasing his feet. It erupts into a vast amount of light, and many of the shades dissipate from this. Soon the White eyed Shade self combusts, trying to slay the party, however fails in causing any significant damage. The party collects the corpses and begins moving out of the cavern.

Before exiting entirely, however, Recard points out a passage that the party had not travelled down yet. Knowing that all corpses must be collected, Arkiel agrees to travel down this passage. Before long, all corpses are loaded, and the company is heading for the exit. Arkiel hears the clamor of swords as he nears the mouth.

The sight outside the mine is terrifying. It's an army of lifeless shadow soldiers, marching. The sight alone makes Arkiel tremble. How.. in the name of Helia could this occur..?

The party decides to travel back to the Eyerie, Wagon in tow. They come across a bridge, and Arkiel decides that they should fasten a rope across it, to act as a gaurdrail, thus, the wagon could not tumble off.

Sebek's recap Post2

We had ventured into the Mines in hopes of finding Ansee's Sister, and to recover the bodies that once belonged to Children of Helia. Through traversing the mines we had encountered multiple issues. The mines were built by beings that are smaller than humans, and thus us taller beings had to bend over/crouch down to progress. With Helia's holy light no where to be seen, I knew that the result would also be to bring light to this place, that reeked of darkness and the like. We were attacked by shades multiple times, but managed to hold our own. As the journey continued we entered a passage that was filled with stalagmites, no sun(Praise it), and it was quite cold. Certainly areas of this mine were not blessed with Helia's compassion and strength. I, as well as the rest of the party noticed that the mine was slowly becoming filled with water, beginning at the bottom floor. Still, determined to find Ansee's sister/bodies we continued. Arkiel slipped and fell down into a pit. Now, I had dealt with shades, and even smashed them to pieces! But what we saw next we were not prepared for. A massive shade had assaulted Arkiel, whislt above the pit the main party was attacked by smaller shades. This erupted in further combat. The combat was brutal, but we eventually acheived victory over the sades. There was an opening throough shattered ice of which the sun shone in it's gallant state. I praise Helia, for she must have guided my fists these days when Ansee cast a spell on me that made me huge, and I smashed a shade into nothingness. We recovered the bodies(may their souls go to Helia's side) and escaped the mines. What happened next we were not prepared for. Not even me, a dedicated soul to our Goddess Helia. Shaes, Shades everywhere when we exited the mines. A massive, shawdoyfigure with a pleathora of smaller shades was creeping over the mountainside. Stay with me, my faith. And with no sun shining in the sky, intense weather, and more showed abominations, may my faith not waver, my resolve be absolute, and my heart devoted to Helia. Praise the sun.

[From the journal of Ansee Curaan]

We found Coura's body. I don't know what I truly expected, but seeing her sealed in that cold glass was nearly too much to bear. So still and stiff, her eyes wide. She died alone, afraid, and in darkness. Alone save for me, and I could do nothing. Even now, with newfound friends and power, we're still just picking up the shattered pieces these shades leave in their wake.

As we did so, the storm worked against us. Water began filling the mine, and made the simple caverns all the more treacherous. A sudden current caused Arkiel to lose his footing, dropping down a sharp decline and into a hole. I no longer doubt that these shades are as malicious as they are intelligent. The moment we became separated, they attacked us in full force. Along with several of the typical shades, another new type appeared. This shade was solid, resembling some kind of horned creature. Not content to simply sap our strength, it turned the water around itself into that glass, and used its claws to to nearly tear Arkiel apart.

Thanks to quick thinking on his part, he survived by using one of our emergency light jars. It not only blinded the bestial shade, but the warm light it released banished the black glass and allowed natural sunlight into the mine. Many of the shades were immediately destroyed by Helia's gaze, the beast was disoriented enough for us to finish it off. Yet, the creature still had enough strength left to release a most piercing shriek, and exploded into cold wind. All that the wind touched became coated thinly by the glass, and I felt as if my very bones would shatter.

After that was when we found Coura.

We collected the rest of the remains and loaded them, but we were far from finished with the shades. There had to have been thousands of them. They burst from the ground and flitted in the sky as if they were the clouds of the storm. Yet even that was not the worst of it. A flash of lightning revealed it: they covered Mt. Fidelis, an army of shades so great that the mountain turned as black as the lightless depths underground, and at its head was a single figure. A massive shade, greater than any other, its silhouette lit by the storm as the army marched south. I do not know where they are going, nor do I wish to know. Yet, I am afraid I do know where we are going.

So long as Lucian remains at my side, we will chase them.

From the point of view of Sebek, with permission from one Russty Shepherd.

The weather persisted, and together our group began to move the cart forward in winds so powerful that they dragged our friend Ansee's mount from the sky. The fury of the weather was such that it took nearly all of us just to move it, and with the bridge flooded we began to experience doubt.

Despite this, Arkiel pushed through the waters on foot to tether a rope to the opposite side, such that when we crossed, if we were pushed aside by the water we had a safety line. This measure likely later saved Arkiel's life, and it's good that he came up with it. Diana was less lucky.

As we moved onto the bridge the cart rocked and swayed and it tried to swerve at every moment to slide or toppled into the raging river, and to take us with it. First it took Diana, and she disappeared into the white water so quickly that her hand never had a chance to grab onto the rope. My first instinct was to go after her, to preserve sacred life, as Helia has always taught, but doing so put the souls of those we'd been sent to save at risk, as well as Chromatica herself. I struggled deeply with this conflict.

I am lucky that Ansee was present, he sent his companion after her, and she was deftly saved. Without the help of that otherworldly beast the river nearly overtook us, and the cart threatened to  collapse. I had to push back against it, and I was pinned, we could not move forward any longer. Together, Arkiel, myself, Recard, and Ansee held the line against the weather and the river until she returned, and with Helia fueling our strength we crossed to safety.

All was not well, however, and as we moved up the mountain side to the gates, we could see smoke rising from the city. The gates themselves were left open and unguarded, and inside things were truly dire. Many orphans have been made in The Eyerie. The aberrant shades had descended on the people and were using the cloud cover to move through the city with impunity, stealing many sacred lives. Some few fought back, and Ansee in particular did what he could to assist them, shedding what light he could to give them a fighting chance. We had no choice but to press on with our mission.

On the walls sergeants of the Order Sol waved banners and blew loud horns, directing as many people as they could to the city center, and by extension, the temple square. They fought in the streets, and on the walls, people scrambled past us hoping to preserve themselves. My heart goes out to them.

At the city center we found that the mass of people had grown several sizes. Encircling them were the very knights who only hours before had been there to oppose their violence, and Chromatica amongst them. She was glad to see us, but quickly sent most of my companions away to meet with one Knight Captain Aaran. Arkiel and myself stayed with her, and together the three of us fought side by side, defending the people of this city. Anna was with us as well, and we did our best to protect her.

The battle was fierce and desperate, outnumbered as we were. The shades seem untouchable to most attacks and the vast majority of people were helpless. To our surprise even the men at arms of houses Ferrus, Gilded, and Monoceras joined out cause, and our handful grew to a band dedicated to preserving what light remained.

Men fell. Many men fell. Each death brought our more ferocity in our companions and ourselves, a deeper need to prevent further waste of life. I have never seen such fury from Arkiel. Despite his fatigue from the mines he fought with a power that neared animalistic.

At our backs the people despaired, at our fore our enemies gathered in droves. Even High Sister Chromatica shed some of her calm exterior. The loss of life caused her to grow so incensed and brutal in her attacks that I feared we may lose her to anguish, but that never did happen. No matter how deeply she charged into the fray, no matter how fully she repaid the shades with violence, she always returned to us, and to Anna. Through the ordeal not one of the creatures came within several fathoms of the girl. It's clear she means the world to Chromatica, and I'm confident the reverse is just as true.

In our darkest moment our determination and faith was rewarded. The eye of the storm passed over us, a great calm spread across the city, and through the great hole in the storm Helia's angry glare came down upon our foes, who could not withstand it. They were utterly erased and destroyed.

I only fear what will come when the eye passes. Goddess protect us.

Guise post recap pls

[From the journal of Ansee Curaan]

We have survived, for now. Our return to The Eyerie was delayed by the storm, which flooded the river and made the bridge all but impassable. Lucian attempted to use his newly formed wings to cross, but the winds were too severe and forced him down. Arkiel had the idea to secure a rope to the bridge that we might use to stabilize the cart, and it likely saved our lives. Soon after crossing, however, we saw smoke rising from the town. The shades had gotten there first.

There was screaming. People tried to escape, some fought hopeless battles in the streets. Dark of the the storm rendered the shades invincible to them, yet still some fought. Most ran, unable to escape. I did what I could, throwing debris enchanted to shed light to those in need, and it turned several near defeats around it was still a losing battle. We thought that Chromatica would know what do, and so we sought her out. She did, and sent Diana, Recard, and Lucian and I to the western district to rescue those inside. Alongside us were Knight Captain Aaran and Sergeant Aimes.

As we ran, the shades collected, attempting to stop us. Captains Aaran cleared many from our path,  while Lucian and I pulled ahead. The two of us reached the housing, and once again found people and shades engaged in battles and chases. Before we could do so much as begin to help, however, the shades turned on Lucian and I, striking us with their deathly touch. Luckily, Sergeant Aimes soon arrived to lend aid, with Captain Aaran not far behind. Even more, at that moment the eye of the storm passed over us, banishing the shades under Helia's gaze.

It was merely the eye, however. Our true battle was yet to come. It would be an hour before the storm began again, and in that time we guided the civilians to the temple square. Lucian was in poor condition to fight after being struck by so many shades, and I was forced to dismiss him for the time being. In need of allies and light, I called upon a Lantern Archon by the name of Goldie, and together we managed to ward most of the square with torches whose flames would never extinguish naturally. Once we had found as many survivors as we could and brought them to safety, Diana went to search for more, or at least the bodies that she may save their souls. I prepared myself, and set several oil traps around the temple. With instructions to light them when shades grew close, I can only hope I saved at least one life that they might have ended.

At last the hour ended, and the shades came again. The battle was furious and the numbers overwhelming, but Sebek and Akiel returned to us and we had the assistance of several more of Helia's monks beside us. However, the shades found ways to turn this assistance against us. Several shades danced in the air, dropping mist upon our ranks, and several monks immediately fell to slumber. Once asleep, the shades possessed them and forced their hands against ours. We were able to release them from this prison by cutting the strings that bound them to the shades, but again the shades danced, and against many fell to become their puppets.

Without Lucian, I relied on what help I could call. First a Fire Elemental that gave no name, an Azata known as Lyra, and Goldie helped me in turn. Recard did all he could to stay the cold of the shades' touch, but he was exhausted, and we grew weak. Arkiel fell, followed by Sebek and then Recard. They were not killed, but the shades' touch rendered them paralyzed. I myself nearly succumbed, and even now my body is nearly as stiff as wood, but we have all survived. I fear for how the other battles have gone, however. We briefly sighted a great beast of shadow that flew of darkened wings, but thankfully it stayed away from our lines, but I worry for Loken, whom it landed near. We survived long enough for the shades to withdrawn, but this is hardly a victory.

Another event of note is Diana. While I was too frightened and busy fighting for my life, I heard her shouts. The words she spoke are of concern to me, for who would find peace in darkness but a shade? She spoke what sounded like a name, one of "Nocturne," as if swearing. I am concerned, but even so the shades made it clear that she is their enemy, and they hers. I do not feel we can afford to lose any allies at this time, so her secrets, whatever they may be are safe for the time being.

Arkiel is mildly annoyed, given that he is incapable of movement. Him and his comrades discuss "dreams", as well as the battle recently won.
Soon Chromatica takes the company to an area where they may heal and overcome the effects of their paralyzation.

Arkiel had a dream that night. "Arkiel finds himself walking down a black road made of tar, in a wasteland like none he's ever seen. What little plant life once existed has gone yellow or rust brown, and far behind him a storm rages, so fierce that fires and smoke fuel the winds. He falls to his knee, the heat of the blackened road so intense his skin begins to bubble on contact. In the sky the sun beats down mercilessly, and the air ripples with heat."
The dream concludes with Arkiel combusting, and boiling to death. It's absolutely gut wrenching to him.

Arkiel awakes, and decides to head to a smith, where he purchases a Bastard Sword.
Afterwards, he meets with Sebek and Ansee, who are going to talk to house Ferrus.
Arkiel manages to get his food grudgingly in the door. He has to find a way to make the head of house Ferrus put aside differences with Chromatica.

The head of the house, after some conversing, the head of the house decides to bring food to the plaza for the starving citizens. However, House Ferrus still refuses to let Chromatica go. Chromatica then informs Arkiel and co. that she has written a letter to Kara. And that they will have audience with her in the future.

Arkiel then promptly heads to bed. Exhausted from his wounds from the previous day.

With a day of rest, Arkiel, Sebek, and Recard regained some measure of mobility, though we were all still near paralysis and unable to move our joints well. However, there was still work to be done. For the recovery effort resolved to see Master Ferrus about his food stores. After all, he was so concerned about the people's welfare that he would go so far as to indict Chromatica, sure he would love to give up his food stores so that others may survive. Unfortunately, he was rather stubborn about lending aid when Arkiel, Sebek, and I approached him. Arkiel revealed that he had been attacked by men of House Ferrus and collected their tabards. Rather than blackmail him, however, Arkel proposed a simple exchange: the tabards, and all evidence of the crimes of House Ferrus , would be handed over and in return, the House's generous nature would prevail and aid in the relief effort. Master Ferrus accepted the deal and agreed to provide aid, and also ordered that the family members he had lost would be memorialized. I empathize deeply with his grief, but I am unsure he is fully worthy of trust despite Arkiel's gesture of goodwill. We shall see where he falls soon, I fear.

Upon returning, we met up with Diana and Recard. They appear to have secured help from the master of House Monceras in exchange for escorting him out of The Eyerie. I believe this to be a good plan, as we must also deliver the letter that Chromatica has written for Heirophant Kara. Unfortunately, it means we may miss Chromatica's trial. I have every confidence that she will be found innocent, but it would be a shame if we were unable to attend. Her argument has has merit, though. We would certainly be of more help out here than in the gallery.

I cannot thank Chromatica enough, even as I fear for what it has cost her. She allowed me to see Coura again. When we awoke this morning, we recovered yet more from the damage that the shades inflicted on us. We had some time to prepare before we would depart with Master Monceras, so I asked Chromatica how the collection and blessing of the dead was progressing. She assured me that all was well, and everyone would join Helia.

I then confronted Diana about what I heard the other day. She said little, but confirmed my suspicions. It would seem Diana is a heretic, one worshiping darkness and one called Nocturnal. I do not yet plan to act on this information and have told no one, as Diana has still be nothing but an asset to our fight with the shades. It would seem that no matter your beliefs these shades are abhorrent.

After, I began my own project, locating The Eyerie's alchemy shop. Inside was a blinding light, but despite it, and with some help from the owner I succeeded in creating 2 vials of Alchemist's Fire. I believe these could be highly useful to us, but at the moment only Recard can unlock their true potential. Used as a material component, Alcheist's Fire can increase the potency of several fire based spells. I leave them in Recard's hands.

After we each finished our errands, we returned to the temple, where Chromatica had built a large pyre with a symbol of a star to go with it. Diana recognized the symbol and grew angry, calling it a sin. It was a spirit fire, a way to contact the dead, but not without cost. The user's own spirit must fuel the fire, and repeated use is very dangerous. I feel terribly selfish for allowing Chromatica to go through with it, but this cannot be a sin. I saw Coura again. Her soul was radiant, of purest flame even greater than my own recollection. We embraced, the flames harmless to us, and I could not help but to apologize for my failure. That was when she told me the one thing I should have known all this time. "It wasn't your fault," she told me. We were finally able to say goodbye, and that was all I had truly wanted, but we were blessed with that and more.

Chromatica called others. So many others, many we knew and spoke with not even a week past. Diana called a name, and saw her own sister again. I may not have full faith in her goals, but I feel we can yet get along. However, some of the names Chromatica began to call did not respond. Ones we know to have fallen, but do not find among the souls of their comrades. It surely the work of the shades. They simply can't leave well enough alone. They must continue to take, to kill, and now they threaten to take Coura away once again? I will not allow this. Lucian and I will save the lost. We will destroy every shade that lurks in a darkness so foul that even this Nocturnal condemns it. I'll study, find the secrets of this plane and cross the boundaries of this and every other world in pursuit of them. We will bring every resource we have to bear, every ally we can gather, and all the power we have will be brought down to crush these shades back into the dust they spawned from.

We decided to take the path around the Benevolent Wood, as the others had encountered shades there on the way to The Eyerie. I would have preferred the shorter route, if only to give the shades their due, but in the interest of keeping Chromatica's letter safe we took the lowlands route. Indeed there were no shades, but I fear we disturbed something far worse, something powerful enough to hold its lands against them. Even now I suspect the Fair Lady watches me.

She first appeared to us at the river, guarding a bridge. Taller than any human I've seen, and seemed to possess great magical power even then. She trapped Lucian and Arkiel in the ground, and offered to play a game in exchange for their lives. We had little choice, but thankfully we solved her riddle (the windows to the soul) before Arkiel suffocated beneath the earth. However, it was this that drew her attention our way thereafter. Worse still, she took special interest in me.

Once we had crossed the bridge, we continued on through the wood, though it quickly became apparent that something was wrong. The forest was eerily silent, and there were no animals to be seen. Our hunting was fruitless, and our food supplies dwindled to nothing. All we could do was press on, hoping to exit the forest by extending the time we traveled. It was no use, however, as we were forced to stop before complete exhaustion took us.

When we awoke, the forest was alive again, but this only served to highlight the unnatural situation. In the night something had put Arkiel to sleep as he took watch and stole Chromatica's letter. Further, they had placed strange mirrors within our bags as we slept. They enjoy toying with us, and we had no choice but to take part in another deadly game. A fiddler appeared to us to explain the rules, but there was only one. "Learn to see secondhand."

The mirrors allowed us to see the unseen, but they were small and did not show much. The fiddler told us to find the stage, and there we discovered several larger mirrors along with a pair of creatures much like the Fair Lady. They rendered themselves invisible in the light as they attacked, forcing us to rely on the mirrors or the shadows to defend ourselves. Diana revealed a degree of control over the shadows, able to conjure a darkness that revealed one of the creatures. It was harrowing, but thanks to that darkness the tide of the battle turned in our favor.

It did not last long, however, for the Fair Lady herself soon took to the field. She stopped the fight entirely, and thanked us for the entertainment before offering to let us leave the forest. In return, she asked for a lock of hair from each of us. A lock of hair she could use to track us, even manipulate us with the right magic. We refused, and she brought the forest to life before us. The trees uprooted themselves and formed fists from their own branches.

I could not let the journey end there, so I did something I knew to be foolish. I challenged the Lady and wagered everything on the outcome. The others would escape with the letter, but I would stay in the forest. It had to be me; I know not why, but I was the one that attracted her attention the most. I thought the gamble had paid off when she allowed the others to step on her circle of teleportation, sending them to Arcanum. But she withheld the letter from them. When I tried to take it back, I was brushed aside with ease. She let me take the letter, but in return took a lock of my hair by force.

I should be glad she did not see fit to kill me, but by letting me escape she will be able to reach beyond her forest. I have to get the letter to Kara, but I fear my mere presence puts my friends at risk.

Thankfully, I found the others without further incident and we entered Arcanum together. We had little time to take in the beauty of the city, however, and made our way to the temple of Sun's Pike immediately. The guards welcomed us with only a little fuss, and we soon came to the teleportation circle that would take us to Kara. It was not long after that we were face to face with the Heirophain herself. I handed her the letter, and she spoke to us briefly. She told us to rest, for the next day we would return to the Eyerie.

We returned to find Chromatica's corpse. The citizens got the trial they wanted, and the execution they wanted. I wonder if they thought killing the only one that could have saved them was worth it, starving as they were when we found them. How many died because she wasn't there to help them? I wanted to save these people once, but that goal died with my friend. Kara shared my rage, but saw fit to spare them. She called all the survivors to square, and then called down fire and lightning. In minutes she had wiped the Eyerie off the map, as if it had never existed. Every building was gone, melted down to slag and molten stone. Yet we saved the people of the Eyerie again, and lead them to Arcanum. It seems they, along with House Ferrus, will survive.

----------

I received a letter from Kara, asking that I return to Sun's Pike with the others. This time I had a chance to fully experience the beauty of the city, and I made the most of it. Time grew short, however, and I soon found myself in Kara's meeting room with many unfamiliar faces. Kara appeared before us and explained her intentions. We were travel Accord and give assistance where needed, acting as Kara's eyes and ears as well as her hands in any matters that we could. It seemed as if we would be acting directly under the Heirophain, and doing so through less official channels. Where Kara could not directly intervene, we would provide aid or strength where needed. Each of us was then granted a charm that allow communication with Kara, to report our findings.

Of those assembled, we broke into teams. I remained with Diana and Arkiel, while four new members were added to our group: Melody, a holy warrior of Helia, and Tiefling. Roxana and Narolth, a warrior and Wyvern pair. Finally, there was Aiakos, a savage fighter of great strength. I look forward to seeing them perform, as each looks formidable in their own right.

When the meeting ended, however, I was recalled to speak to Kara privately. For the first time she let down her guard, and I was able to see her a person. I confessed that she scared me, but thereafter we spoke of much and honored Chromatica's memory. She informed me of two possible starting points for our journey. Believing the shades to have moved underground, Kara suggested that it may be wise to investigate the extensive piping network beneath Arcanum, as the army of shades we witnessed before should have been upon the city by now. The second possibility was in the north, where many of the Northern Tribes seemed to have disappeared. In their absence,war over the unoccupied lands was brewing, and the Noble Houses had begun to profiteer from it. Kara assured me that she would soon have the Knights Sol sweep the tunnels, so I thought it best to go northward first. We will set out in a few weeks time.

--------

I received another letter, this one informing me of the death of Sargent Aimes and inviting me to his wake. Many of the others received similar, as all of my companions old and new were present for the ceremony. Even Anna came, with her new guardian San. We arrived early for the rites, and so decided to discuss our next moves over a drink. Melody suggested we first investigate several monster attacks at Lake Mirth, and as it was en route to the Northern Tribes, I saw no reason to disagree. We head for Lake Mirth within the next few cycles.

Unfortunately, there was an explosion outside that brought us all to our feet. We rushed out to lend aid, only to discover a burning building. However, it seemed that the building itself was not burning, but something behind it. I know a bit of alchemy, and it seemed to me like a deliberate bombing. That was when Diana detected a great deal of magic emanating from San, even as she held Anna. We questioned her about the incident, but she soon teleported away with Anna in tow. In hindsight, it would seem we were foolish.

The bomb was a distraction, and Aiakos had come under attack from a band of assassins in our absence. I hear tell that he fought bravely, felling so many in such a short time that at least one assassin began to flee from his wrath. By the time I arrived, the only assassin that remained was an archer on an opposite roof. I summoned Bruce and flew up to meet the archer, though our fight was short lived. When it looked as if the archer would escape, Melody called upon Kara's charm to ask for aid in his capture. Just as I had managed entangling the archer in Kaa's coils, San reappeared with Anna, and froze him with a word. It would seem that we interrogated the Heirophain.

I fear what the future holds.

baens log

A FINE DAY THIS HAS BEEN

AWAKENED TO FIND MYSELF BEDDING WITH A YOUNG FLOWER THOUGH SHE IS A FLOWER NO MORE HAHA.

MADE HASTE FROM HER RESIDENCE TO ATTEND THE WAKE OF ESTEEMED WAR-BROTHER AIMES I HAVE MANY FOND MEMORIES OF FIGHTING ALONGSIDE HIM DURING THE PASI PACE FIGHT TO FREE THE VILLAGERS OF THUMBOLD FROM THEIR FEY-POSSESSED RULERS. MUCH GLORY WAS HAD AND WIDOWS COMFORTED HAHA WAKE WAS EVENTFUL NEARLY DIED HAHA.

AMBUSH BY ASSASSINS CAUGHT ME OFF GUARD AND ALONE MANAGED TO KILL THREE OF THE BASTARDS BEFORE BLACKING OUT HAHA THAT'LL TEACH THOSE LADDIES TO FEAR THE SONS OF BAIRTLEMEAD EH?

AWAKENED TO THE WARM EMBRACE OF A BEAUTIFUL DEMON SEDUCTRESS NOT USUALLY MY TYPE BUT MAY MAKE AN EXCEPTION HAHA

log

Kara, still in the guise of San, soon teleported away, leaving us to gather any information we could about the assassins and their employer. I tied the man up and summoned Lucian that we might fly to the other building, and arrived just as Melody and Diana finishing healing the others. Melody tightened the knot of the ropes holding him, and after a few minutes the spell wore off, allowing him to speak once more. During our questioning, he revealed his name as Eric, and after some prodding revealed that should he talk, his family would die. However, when Melody began to use more forceful methods, he managed to hit her with a poisoned glove, paralyzing and nearly killing her.

In response, Roxana and Arkiel threatened and injured Eric, but they succeeded in getting him to talk. The assassins were hired by Lyssander Ferrus. Shortly after, the Knights Sol arrived, forcing Roxana too back off. One of them told us of an alchemist nearby, and Lucian and I took her as swiftly as his wings could carry us. Thereafter, we were able to find a Cleric that was able to undo the damage that the poison caused. Once Melody was fully recovered, we regrouped at the market and bought whatever last minute supplies we needed.

During this time, it would seem Diana was contacted by a member of her religion, all of whom she thought were dead. She informed me of this through her trinket, as we regrouped with San to plan our trip to Lake Mirth. She wished to speak more privately at a later time, but still felt that San and myself should know. While we communicated telepathically, the conversation aloud turned to House Ferrus and the laws of the land. I asked San to look into the families of our assassins, and she agreed. Thereafter, she suggested that we research the creature of Lake Mirth at the town's library, and informed that should it not be killed, it would grow stronger. Even so, my companions were undaunted. We set off for Lake Mirth.

On our second day of travel, we spotted what seemed to be a caravan of some kind, though it was torn apart. Around it was an aura of magic, specifically one of evocation, which made me suspect magic was involved. However, as we drew closer, two great beasts emerged from the earth beneath us. One of them looked to have wounded Aiakos badly, but he struck back with a great attack that left a grievous wound in return. We quickly slew the Bulettes, as Diana called them, and further investigated the caravan. I found a scroll, but neither I nor Diana was able to read it. After another few days, we reached a village and decided to stop.

That was a mistake, I think. We stayed only long enough to rest a moment and eat. Melody and Aiakos seem to have asked around, and discovered that the Fair Lady controls the village. They did not know the threat as we did, but Diana and I informed them and urged our group to leave immediately. Melody began to sense a great evil surrounding us, but it did not prevent us from leaving. It followed us, for as long as we dared travel.

We soon came upon a bridge that shouldn't have existed. It was the same one that we met her on, where she first decided we were her favorite toys. Before we could anything, she appeared once again. Diana spoke out against her, and with a wave of the Lady's hand Diana was transformed into a small lizard. Then the Fair Lady gave us her new game, but we managed to talk her into turning Diana back once it was over.

"Bridge side, there's a very special form of magic. It turns all things to their side, but moves nothing. All you have to do is seek that magic and be on your way."

We merely had to cross the bridge, but all attempts turned us around, back to where we started. It was Melody who solved the puzzle this time. The reflection on the water beneath the bridge was the answer, but it came with a cost. I saw a vision, of my sister being taken by the shades again and again. I can only assume the others saw something similar. It finally ended, and the Fair Lady kept her promise to turn Diana back.

However, Diana called upon her powers of darkness, and Melody noticed. I thought I would need to defend Diana, but Melody understood that Diana was not enemy. Melody did nothing save raise her voice, and we continued. It was not long before we found another piece that did not belong. A simple Inn, run by the Fey that the Fair Lady called kin. We quickly vacated the area and continued on.

Still the auras of evil followed us, until exhaustion forced us to stop for the cycle. We all slept in the caravan Diana brought, and at the beginning of high time Melody discovered a mirror like the ones granted to Diana and myself, though it was broken. Yet still the invisible Fey surrounded us. We simply had to keep moving, and in short order Lake Mirth came into sight. We will find the beast soon, and when we do I only hope the creatures following us do not cause more trouble.

***RECEIVING INCOMING TRANSMISSION***

Session from November 10th:
It was all about information gathering. And that, the party did. Ansee and Diana split off to head for the library, whilst Roxanna and Melody split off to the harbor and the local watering hole known as "The Greatbay Vigil".

Ansee's and Diana's search did not turn up empty handed, but rather fruitful. Weirdly, the Library was unattended, and quite dark. A lot of the books were preserved VIA magic, as well. The mysterious scroll that was recovered whilst fighting the Bullette's was finally identified, 'twas a Lightning Bolt scroll. Could prove useful in combating the lake beast. Two books though, proved to be very vital. One, was information on the Shades, the other about the, which was up in the air, the species of the lake monster, a Hydra. A reading from the book as follows:

"In becoming joined to others in opposition to a thing, consider the meat of it, and act in best judgement. Of this do not become weary or hateful. Let resentment not fester too long therein, for this will make it strong. If you will hate your enemy, celebrate instead your brothers and sisters, as well endeavor not to pass the veil so entangled.

Spirits so tied may not become separate in the passing, for they are much alike, and they cannot tell self from other. Chimeras from this union are born, hateful spirits of many minds and one body often take the shape of a many headed serpent. In defeating such a spirit cut away the many heads til it be mindless. Do not suffer the spirit to touch fair water, as this will nourish the spirit. From this nourishment a storm can be brewed, and new heads may appear out of it from the hateful souls that make it up. If the spirit has met with fair water, burn with fire or hot metal the wounded necks and so seal them, and so no new faces may emerge. With each head less, the spirit diminishes, and is so more easily vanquished.

Also it can be done so that the body of spirit is destroyed utterly. In so doing there is no risk of new faces emerging. The body of such a spirit is tough and hardy, so strike mightily, or risk also becoming entangled with such a spirit in your own passing."

Ansee put it in short the best.

"We've found something that pertains to the beast, or something that matches what we already know of it. It has multiple heads, and severing all of them will kill the beast, but it seems to regenerate them somehow. It hates fire, though, and that can stop it from healing its heads."

Ansee also came across something interesting. A text depicting the early years of The Solar Empire, and a most curious mention within it. The Bleed.

"...Astarae's successor is Aedh, who possesses a great will. The vows are taken and all pray. His election is controversial. Though his will is essential to his sacred duties, for without such a will the bleed cannot be stemmed, his ability to lead is weak. The rule of the Church being new yet, it is felt a stronger leader is of essence..."

The Summoner made a broadcast on all channels with a mention of The Bleed and asked Diana what it could be. Despite all of the Bard's knowledge, she never even heard of it.

Shortly on after that, more information was discovered. A key text in the fight against the Shades. Which, however, the specifics will be kept on a Notepad until GM gives a go to post the specific stats here, to which I will edit this post. What can be revealed though, is their main weaknesses, seeing as that was broadcast on all channels.

They can see far into the darkness and in low light. They're very vulnerable to Fire, but the cold, sleep based spells and any Polymorphs, they are immune to. Their main weakness is any Light based magic, and any that are sleeping are susceptable to control by them.

The Bard DID come across information about the history of how her religion came to be, and shared it with Ansee only.

The book mentions that the caves east of Honest Fields used to be a sanctuary for those with pale skin that could not handle the light of Helia. People with a strange infirmity who did not tan and would have died without protection, with white hair usually. However, inside the sanctuary it seems a new belief was formed, and the cult severed ties with the surface world.

She found no more information, however.

Once sufficient information was gathered, Diana and Ansee brought the books to the table and sorted out their own theories and plans. Afterwards, the information was broadcast on all channels.

Melody's and Roxana's search was fruitful as well.

At the Greatbay Vigil, they came across a Bard. As to which, the two asked him to spread song and word about the party's plan to rid Lake Mirth of the Hydra. The Bard also referred the Knight and Paladin to a man named Hicks within the Vigil, as to which they gathered up information themselves. The relevant information about the conversation can be observed here, http://pastebin.com/W9xuGGtL

After the party felt they gathered up sufficient information, they reunited once more and went off to seek an Alchemy and Potion shop. They found a stand initially, but it was unoccupied. Then they sought out the base of operations for aforementioned shop, apparently called Mir's Potions and Extracts It was owned by a girl of small stature named Mir. The Party, with quite the effort from Melody, managed to get discounted prices on any of the potions they'd need.

I personally went to bed shortly after slightly further persuasion to utilize the Alchemy lab, but it happened. As to where, Ansee began making Alchemical Fire potions (or what ever they were called).

That's all I can gather for now.

If I left anything out, lemme know.

***END OF TRANSMISSION***

***RECEIVING INCOMING TRANSMISSION***

Recap from the 18th.

More potion making in the start of this session. Ansee, Diana and Mir remained at the shop for maximum assistance in the creation of Alchemical Fire potions, whilst Melody and Roxanna split off to spread further the good word of what the party plans to do, defeat this beast.

Roxanna apologized for the way the events happened at the last encounter with the Fair Lady, though. Things went slightly sappy during the conversation between the two. Afterwards, a Knight Sol was found walking nearby the Tiefling and the Human. Melody wasted no time approaching and hailing him. The Knight stated that The Knights Sol themselves could not go out and annihilate the beast. As for the reason why, neither Melody 'nor Roxanna could figure out the reason. When asked why, the Knight simply said "Then some of your number were at the Eyerie. You should know then, that in a storm, when Her light is hidden from the world, the shades can attack and quickly kill many, many people. Our duty is to protect those people, and so we can't leave the city. ...Also our vows prevent us from setting foot on a ship.", then informed that a local Noble, Xander Auvelias, could probably be persuaded into letting the party use his ship, The Alert, if they only vowed to return it back safely.

Once Ansee, Diana and Mir were finished in the shop, the Halfing and the Child of the Dark absconded the premises, and lead by Diana, Ansee followed her to The Greatbay Vigil for some more information. They made it there, but it was close to closing time. Not no mention it was packed.

Roxanna and Melody went to the Noble's house, and after a conversation, managed to get Xander to agree on letting them use their boat, so long as it returns safely seeing as it's the only boat available in the harbor.

Diana squeezed her way on through to locate the man Hicks, whilst Ansee and Lucian just made a hole for themselves due to the summoned creatures wing span. Hicks was located, but a case of mistaken identity was had. Though some how, Diana convinced Hicks to do a performance with him, despite the Barman's own words. They both got to a place in the watering hole where they both would be visible, and put on a nice rendition of Home for a Rest. Hicks voice, as he warned, was not well at all. The Bard managed to up her volume to drown out Hicks' singing.

Another Bard joined in the performance, one by the name of Sten, wielding the Violin. Which also happened to be conveniently right behind Ansee. They were once again directed to The Sunk'n to seek help.

After he left, Diana turned her attention to Hicks, where she PISSED AWAY AN ENTIRE FUCKING HOUR EXTRACTING INFORMATION FROM THE WRONG PERSON HAERMM. She realized this once Melody came in and intervened. She left almost immediately. The party came out too, but The Bard followed a good eight feet behind. Ansee dropped back to walk with Diana, but only acknowledged his presence with a defeated nod.

The Party made it to Melody's parents house, who they both, were human. They were invited in. Diana went in shortly after playing herself a song.

Food and clothing were offered all around. Everyone accepted the clothing, except Diana, for which she went into Melo's old room to change into her black, accented dress then came out.

Food was good, Luggadon steak and a couple side dishes. Melody told her parents of all the adventures they had been on, leading up to this point. Ansee got a little out of hand describing his summoned creatures, their habbits and how to take care of them, but the Tiefling's parents didn't seem to mind at all. After they ate, they dispersed to their sleeping arrangements

The next cycle, out to the Sunk'n they went where it was indeed chalk full of more sailors. They met one Captain though, called Sam. When Ansee mentioned the party aimed to kill the beast, the entire Sunk'n went silent, except for the group of Bard's playing. Diana actually offended this group when she went to the stage, but not up on it, and asked them if they knew a specific song. After one that seemed to really elevate the bar to levels unknown, the group of Bards got off the stage and circled around Diana.

Melody gave a fine speech to try and get the group to help them spread good word, and to make a little bit more cash. Assisted by the other party members, they agreed.

If I left anything out, please let me know.

***END OF TRANSMISSION***

[Journal of Ansee Curaan]

Lake Mirth is now free of the terror that once gripped it.

In the days leading up to our confrontation with the creature, we prepared as best we could. Melody managed to secure us a ship and a crew. The only ship remaining, in fact, and possibly the only crew still willing to try. Meanwhile, Diana and I researched what we could about the creature and the shades. We found a reference to an ancient beast that resembled the creature's description, as well as more on what the shades could be. As luck would ave it, they were one and the same. I also found a strange book that mentioned something called "the bleed," which it would seem the current Hierophain has a hand in stopping. I asked the others, but it would seem that none of us know what this bleed could be.We soon set about our work in order to face the lake beast. I spent days crafting Alchemist Fire at a local alchemist shop, and while there we secured potions to help our fight.

It would seem that the oath of the Knights Sol may have prevented them from accompanying us on the water. Instead they offered us help outfitting the ship. Melody again found us help in the form of a local bardic group, and they, along with Diana, helped us raise the money we used to arm and armor the ship. Metal armor and siege engines, as well as a firedrake to exploit the beast's weakness. We were armed as best we and the town could afford, and the cycles until the battle drew near.

Just before the confrontation, however, Diana was visited by a member of her order. He wore a hood, which he lowered when Melody took objection. He asked to speak to Diana privately, and she left. I do not know what they discussed, only that they left and a short time later Diana returned alone.

At last the cycle came. We sailed out into the lake, knowing the beast would be the one to seek us out. Storms soon began to swirl overhead. We all began to down our potions. Lucian and I took flight soon after, joining Roxana and Narolth in the air. Melody, too, flew with us using one of the potions we bought. Then the creature appeared.

It was a massive, multi-headed shade. Larger than our ship and more mobile besides, but we fought against it all the same. Lucian and I charged towards, his fearless bravado urging him to fight it alone if he had too. Roxana and Narolth did the same, while Melody protected the ship. Diana began to play her songs, the magic of the music seeping through us all, and granting us strength unlike any before. Melody struck, her blade cutting a head from the creature as though it were but grass beneath her blade. Roxana moved to seal the wound, and Narolth was struck in turn. The creature turned, then, and killed Lucian before my eyes. Even knowing he could not be truly killed, the sight rattled me as I fell to the water.
We all did what we could, but the beast's onslaught was tearing the ship to pieces. I managed to pull myself from the water, surviving only thanks to the potion of water breathing, and conjured a wall of fire between the shade and our ship. Then I saw a righteous fury fill Roxana and Melody. They struck in turn as though women possessed, cutting great swathes through the shades' glasslike hide, despite its strength. I felt as if the rage of Helia herself surged through them as they rent the beast asunder. It struck back, wounding Melody greatly, but still she pressed on, so long as her hands held her blade she would not cease her assault. In moments the battle was ended, and the beast of the lake faded along with its eternal storm. We had won.