The Quest for the Diadem

The Quest for the Diadem is the first story in the Masteri Cycle

Era
This story is set in the Era of Heroes during the height of the Formorian occupation

Major Characters
Princess Kylah ap Geir (PC)

Prince Brodhan ap Geir (NPC)

Krysta (NPC)

Octalian (NPC)

Kemmor MacHain (NPC)

Kitral Avannis (NPC)

Kisyah Avannis (NPC)

Curradar (NPC)

Prince Elibar Kayne (NPC)

Episode 1 -Choosing Five
As per the rites of adulthood, Princess Kylah was expected to ride out on a quest to prove herself. She agreed to take her protective older brother, Prince Brodhan ap Geir. She also chose Shamanic apprentice Krysta to join her.

She rode to Fiorne lands. She was welcomed by old Queen Callis, who gifted the Princess the artifact known as the Flydah. Kylah also encountered adventurous twins Kitral and Kisyah and agreed to take Kitral with her, leaving the shy, music loving Kisyah behind. She also met the powerful warrior Octalian who she recruited to her team.

After leaving the Sidhe tribe lands, the party realized they were being followed and saw that Kisyah had decided to follow them anyway. The party was now six strong as they began the trip north.

Kylah's Journal

''It's almost my fifteenth birthday. Which means soon I'll be going on a Coming of Age / Rite of Passage Quest, as is traditional in my Tribe. ''

''Father calls me to attend a gathering of family, council elders and Volvein. Father informs me that my adulthood quest is to locate and bring back the Harula Diadem. According to rumors it has properties of magic and can even give the gift of sight into other realms. The diadem belonged to someone in the northern city of Nayirim. ''

''Volvein steps forward and says to please the Gods my Quest party must contain five members. It can grow in size but must start with five. Five members, five elements. ''

''Now it is Mother's turn to come forward. She presents me with five gold pieces to help me on the journey. She also gives me a golden necklace, she says its in case I ever need to prove to someone that I am who I say I am. I wrap it around my ankle to keep it safe in my boot. ''

''My eldest brother, Brodhan, volunteers to join me immediately. I want him to come but as he is heir I am worried that he won't be allowed. After a discussion our parents grant permission for him to join me. I am thrilled. I know he would die for me if needed... Krysta, Volvein's apprentice, motions for my attention. She wishes to come too, stating that she wants to leave the tribe lands to learn more and that she thinks she would be a good choice because of her Shamanic abilities. I agree to take her with me, despite Volvein trying to keep her with him, or even take her place.''

''The three of us head out to the Fiorne tribe land to look for more recruits to my quest party. The Fiorne people are small and skinny and Brodhan doesn't waste time in pointing it out. Krysta and I give him a look. ''

''We make our way to the central living area and their elderly queen is carried forward on a litter. She's incredibly old, and blind. Yet there seems to be something about her that I can't explain. She knows us, somehow. She gifts me a wooden box, it's ancient. It smells of years gone by and it has an energy to it. A faint, warm tingle kind of energy. When I open the box to see what's inside the energy gets stronger. The item inside the box is a kind of sceptre. ''

''It's called The Flyda. ''

''I know nothing about it but I know that this is an extremely generous and potentially helpful gift. ''

''I thank the old queen and resume my hunt for allies for my journey. ''

''Almost immediately I meet a boy who is completely bald. He introduces himself as Kitral and chats to us. Moments later another identical version of Kitral appears, but this one is called Kisyah. Both boys are charming, Kitral is louder and more confident, and Kisyah's charm comes from his shyness. He is a talented pipe player and when I compliment him on his skill he blushes furiously. As soon as Kitral finds out I'm going on a quest he makes it clear he wants to come. I tell him I'll let him know before I leave the village. ''

''I continue my search with Brodhan and Krysta, we head out a little further this time, out into the farming land. ''

''We see a huge boy in one of the fields pulling the plough himself as it seems his old and tired horse is unable to do it for him. When he sees us, he comes over and introduces himself as Octalian. He's built tall and strong and I mentally nickname him "The Ox" ''

''His brief description of his past is deeply saddening, his whole tribe murdered... So he found a home with the Fiorne. Changing the subject he asks us why we're in this area and I explain about my quest. He says he'd like to come along and I agree. His size and strength are impressive and I think they will really help me, but another part of me just wants to give him the chance to see sonething in life other than fields. ''

''The four of us head back into the village where I find the twins again. I request another song from Kisyah and he plays a happy little tune. I say my goodbyes and invite Kitral to join me. I feel terrible about leaving Kisyah behind as I really like him but tough choices will need to be made on this journey. Or so says Father anyway.''

''My party has reached it's fifth member. I hope the Gods will be pleased with my choice of companions... I head back to my own village to load the packhorse with provisions and prove I have "The Five" then I set off on the road to adulthood!''

''A short time later Kitral stiffens and looks around. Turning to me he tells me that we're being followed... Before anyone can decide which action to take Kisyah walks in to view! I smile at him and ask if he wanted to join the party also. He nods and looks relieved that I haven't sent him away. He blushes when his twin makes a joke about him not being able to stay away.''

Episode 2 -The Road North
The party eschewed the quicker Northern Byway to take the Kirslund forest where they would get less attention. They met local forester Curradar and traded pelts for fire-lighters. He was somewhat cautious of them but warned them of brigands living in the forest. Sure enough on their last night in the forest a party of brigands attempted to ambush them but were seen off in a one-sided brawl. Curradar came running at the sound of trouble but realizing the enemies had been dispatched, he didn't need to rescue them! Princess Kylah offered him to join them anyway and he agreed to do so.

The party also encountered a rare great Red Elk which they watched but didn't hunt. Krysta said this would be a good omen for the journey.

On reaching the wide open north they began to take the road to Shodar. As they walked the roads they met with travelling merchant De Haan and his wagon. They traveled together and they sparked up something of a friendship. They stopped off at an Inn where they stayed in a barn. However a Formorian tax patrol arrived and tried to extort them for money! Despite the pleas from the inn-keeper, the party fought the formorian who fled and killed his night-goblin patrolmen. Octalian took a bad wound but looks like he'd recover.

De Haan's hired man Kemmor (another Sidhe) decided he would go with the party after this so the party agreed to escort De Haan to Starrick so he can hire new mercenaries.

Kylah's Journal

''The party are in good spirits as we walk, deciding to take the forest paths instead of the main road through the region. It is cooler in the forest, and we are less likely to draw attention here. There is general chit-chat and random bursts of song. Something tells me this quest will be fun! I'm enjoying being with my new friends. ''

''A wild man comes into view. He doesn't seem to be a threat but I remain cautious. It turns out he lives in the forest and is rather harmless. We trade a few pelts and firelighters. He tells us that his name is Curradar, and also gives us a warning about a band of brigands lurking in the forest. As he's the first person I've seen here I'm not sure whether he's telling the truth or whether being alone for so long has gotten to him. I thank him for the warning anyway and we continue on our path. ''

''It seems that Curradar wasn't crazy though as we did indeed come across the brigands. ''

''We stopped to make camp, to rest and eat. ''

''A couple of dark figures are spotting lurking amongst the trees and one of the twins quietly makes me aware of two more trying to flank us. I motion to Brodhan, who draws his sword. ''

''The figures come into view and attack us, but we make very short work of them. My party aren't injured at all. I guess the brigands never stood a chance against men like my brother and Ox... I wouldn't pick a fight with them!''

''Brodhan and Ox kill two men each, Kitral kills one. ''

''And... And I kill one too. ''

''My brother calmly walks over to the fresh corpse with my arrow sticking out of it, yanks it from the flesh, and presents it to me. "A trophy of your first kill, sweet sister" He says it's good luck to keep it. ''

''I take the arrow and place it in one of the saddlebags. Adrenaline is racing through me. ''

I feel proud, and excited.

''But I also feel a little tearful and confused about what I've just done. ''

I knew my quest might contain bloodshed, and during my lessons with my bow and sword I was taught how to attack, how to defend, and even how to kill if necessary.

''I just didn't know the real thing would feel like this. ''

''The boys loot the corpses and add three short swords and two hand axes to the saddlebags. We may be able to sell them later. And they're no use to the men we turn our backs on and walk away from. ''

Another figure is seen lurking in the trees but when it walks into view we breathe a sigh of relief that it is only Curradar, the forest-dwelling man we met before.

''He gruffly tells us that he's glad we were able to handle ourselves against the brigands, tucking his axe back into his belt. He'd heard the noise and had come to assist us in our fight.''

''After finding out more about us and the quest we've undertaken he makes a request to join us. He's lived in the forest for over twenty years and states that now he feels it's a good time to step out into the open again.''

''How could I refuse him? He's so sweet, if a little scary in the wrong light. And he was going to aid us, even though we are total strangers to him. I smile at him, and I accept him into our merry band of questers. ''

''The path starts to get lighter and less dense as we walk toward the edge of the forest. ''

''Out of nowhere, a huge Red Elk trots into view. ''

''It is a truly majestic and awe-inspiring beast. ''

''Octalian is keen to hunt him as the meat would last us many days. I refuse and state that if anyone wants to try I'll stick them with one of my arrows. Ox grumbles a bit but otherwise obeys.''

''Krysta looks at me with huge bright eyes and happily informs us all that seeing this animal is a very good omen for our journey. ''

''As silently as he came, the Red Elk disappeared back into the trees as if he'd never been there at all. ''

''The trees eventually thin out and give way to vast open plains. ''

''Curradar is noticeably uncomfortable. I find myself wondering about his life and how he came to live in amongst the trees rather than in a village, but I don't ask him. He seems to be the strong silent type and probably wouldn't like to tell his tale to all of us, especially right now. ''

Now that we're out in the open we decide to take the road, due to how many of us there are it was thought that we'd be spotted wherever we walked.

''On the road we come across a merchant's wagon. The merchant is called De Haan and he seems very friendly. He introduces us to his guard, a mercenary named Kemmor. He seems less friendly, kind of giving us a short nod. We are offered a drink, which we gratefully accept. Most of us choose Elven wine or a Dwarven beer. ''

''De Haan shows us some of his wares, clearly happy to have someone new to talk to. Brodhan falls in love with a Dwarven war axe, and De Haan kindly lets me buy it for two pieces of gold and Brodhan's long sword. My brother is touched by my generosity and vows to treat the axe well. That's not all though, De Haan roots around in his wagon and then presents me with a gorgeous gold bracelet made by the Dwarves. It is engraved with various Runes that even Krysta doesn't know the meaning of. I ask how much gold for it and he laughs at me. "It is a gift my lady!" ''

''As we're travelling in the same direction for the time being we decide we may as well travel as one big group. As the day starts to draw to a close we come across an inn and opt to stay in the barn attached to it to save on gold. ''

''Not long after we've started to relax, a Formorian tax collector arrives with a group of Night Goblin henchmen. It tried to take money from us after it raided the inn and despite the desperate pleas of the innkeeper we go to battle with the Formorian.''

''Or at least we tried to. ''

''It fled as soon as it got a chance leaving the goblins to stand and fight. ''

''Kemmor comes to our aid and proves to be a force to be reckoned with, killing three goblins with ease. Brodhan also brought a swift and bloody end to three of them. Again Kitral slays one, but this time I brought down two with my longbow. ''

''All but one of the hideous creatures were cut down. The lone survivor ran off after it's master. ''

''Octalian is wounded pretty badly during the fight but he'll recover with help from Krysta. He tried to insist he was fine and it was only a little blood but he soon gives up when it becomes obvious that Krysta isn't going to go away until she's started to heal him. ''

''The innkeeper reappears now that the fight has died down and it's safe again. He's obviously in distress about what has happened, the damage and the consequences of what we've done. ''

''I approach him and push the bracelet De Haan gifted me into the innkeeper's shaking hands. It's heavy so must be worth a decent amount and it should help him fix the place up again, or flee to somewhere else. ''

''Kemmor approaches me and asks how I am, and makes a couple of positive comments about the fight. He lingers a while and then confesses how much he enjoyed the fight, how he hasn't been able to swing his sword like that in a long time. He tells me that he wants to join our party. If I wanted him there of course... And if he could make a deal with De Haan. ''

''It really doesn't take long for me to accept his request. He's clearly a skilled warrior and he could prove useful. And he isn't too bad to look at I guess... ''

As I have basically poached De Haan's guard from him, I agree to his request that we continue to travel together towards Starrick so that he is protected until he can hire new mercenaries.

''We travel at a good pace and soon reach the borders of the Starrick lands. ''

''Brodhan and Curradar chat about what Starrick is like but know very little for fact so De Haan joins their conversation to tell them that the people who live there are very war-like, always ready to attack and defend. The settlements that surround the city itself are conquered tribes that the city have enslaved. Apparently slavery is commonplace here, and I (and many others in the party) just can't get my head around that. We're considered barbarians by the inhabitants of Starrick, yet they buy and sell people... Who are the true barbarians? ''

''De Hann continues to explain the most basic and important to remember rules of visiting Starrick. ''

''The first is that women are not allowed to carry weapons, at least not visibly. So Krysta and I will have to keep our gear in the wagon when we reach the city. ''

The second is that slaves are the property of someone else, we aren't to look at them or interact with them as if they were free people.

''The last is that foreigners to the city can only enter with a travel document or some form of written permission. ''

''The last one concerns me, as I don't have anything that will let me pass through the city but De Haan tells me not to worry. ''

''Kisyah informs us that we're being followed. He says he can see a party of about twenty or so, only a couple of kilometers behind us. He makes a guess that they are probably Teutogar warriors and makes a remark that they are rumoured to be cannibals.''

''As the day goes on we run into a Starrick patrol, a pair of men on horseback. ''

''Krysta and I quickly hide our weapons in the wagon and walk alongside the boys unarmed. It's a really uncomfortable, nerve-wracking feeling. I wonder if the women of the city feel this way, or whether they've ever thought to. Different cultures, different rules. It makes me miss home a little. ''

''The riders approach and De Haan converses with them in their own tongue, Staspiel. It is a harsh, angry sounding language but that may have been because of the harsh, angry looking men barking it at us. De Haan waves his travel document at them, and the riders seem to be satisfied as they ride off on patrol again, allowing us to continue our walk to the city. ''

''As we get ever closer to Starrick we pass by small isolated farms and looming outposts that are roughly five miles apart. Each post is manned and has a couple of patrol riders at each tower. De Haan really wasn't exaggerating when he said that they were always prepared.''

''Starrick itself starts to grow on the horizon and it is guessed that we should reach the gates tomorrow. ''

The party set up camp by the roadside.

''Krysta gives Ox "a look" and he sighs loudly as he throws himself to sit on the ground so she can finish healing him from the Formorian encounter. Though Krysta is tiny in comparison he must sense her determination and know that she would badger him all evening until he gave in, so it was easier to do as he was told the first time. It makes me smile that she is rapidly gaining confidence here. Perhaps its because she is away from Volvein and can do her thing without him breathing down her neck every moment. ''

Kemmor sits with me, chatting and asking questions about where we're going, where we came from and what we're planning to do once we reach our destination.

''I tell him that we're heading to Shodan first, an outpost of Nayirim. ''

''Then, making sure no one else is listening to our conversation, I tell him who I am, who I really am. That I'm not "just" Kylah, that I'm really Princess Kylah Ap Geir of the Masteri tribe and I'm on my adult rites quest. ''

''He smiles. He seems amused for some reason. He says he had guessed as much and that he would keep my identity a secret, picking up on the fact I wasn't comfortable with De Haan knowing who I am. I thank him and just sit quietly beside him, enjoying the evening and the sounds of the camp.''

''A couple of the boys stay on watch duty as the rest of the party settles down to sleep. The night is uneventful and when I wake in the morning I can hear Kisyah and Curradar talking, so I listen and pretend to be asleep. Somehow Curradar knows I am awake and make an obvious comment about it, although he did it nicely. I wonder how he knew I was awake... Do I snore?! How terribly un-princess-like!''

After a breakfast of cold meat we march on toward the city.

It is absolutely enormous and very intimidating.

Just outside the city we see a man hanging from a pole and wheel.

''He's dead and by the look of him, he's been out here for a few days. He eyes are gone, probably eaten by a hungry raven. ''

''There's a notice pinned up that informs (warns) that the man was hung for freeing a slave. ''

''It seems De Haan wasn't exaggerating that part of Starrick's rules either. ''

I can see the city gates.

Episode 3 -Starrick
The party marched towards Starrick, arriving after a couple of days. They were distantly pursued by Teutogar warriors who refused to enter Starrick lands. They were greeted with typical fierceness from the Starrick guards. On arrival at the merchant's house Kylah's longbow was confiscated by the Starrick Guards.

Kylah needed a letter of permission or to steal the long-bow back. She was taken to the market by De Haan who, much to her shock, purchased clerical slave Seveir to work as her translator. She eschewed the idea of hiring a thief and instead she, Brodhan, Kemmor and the newly acquired Sevier walked up the hill to speak to a member of the Regime-Council.

Lord Kreutze met the party there and, after some flirting from Kylah, agreed to provide them with a letter of permission in return for one gold. Kylah agreed to this and paid her bribe. On the return to the City, Kylah purchased leather armor for Sevier, Octalian (over his objections) and Krysta.

At the gates, however, they were extorted for a bribe by the Guard-Serjeant. Kylah reluctantly handed over another gold, her last one to exit Starrick. They marched on to the Kolkan wastes, still pursued by the Teutogar. En route they encountered runaway slaves who were given food to avoid a needless skirmish!

At Shodar, the abandoned Nayerese outpost, the party were certain that goblins were using the outpost as a hiding place. They evaded past the goblins and headed up to the roof where they encountered a Wight, left there to guard the treasure. The wight was repelled by the Flydah but the party attacked and defeated the wight, freeing the spirit trapped within it.

They then fought off the Teutogar who were funneled up the stairs. Kemmor took a serious wound in the process.

Kylah's Journal

''Outside the city gates there are four guards wearing plate armour, leaning on their kite shields. Men dressed for war, or maybe just to intimidate. ''

''We had some trouble getting into the city due to the guards on duty but De Haan got us there in the end. ''

''Once we are inside, still feeling riled up from our encounter with Starrick's finest, De Haan tells us that he gets free lodging due to his merchant status and that he'd be happy for us to stay with him for the night. Wanting to save as much gold as possible, I agree to spend one last night as a group. ''

''We get to the Merchant Quarters where guards investigate De Haan's wagon, they spend a long time looking around it and one of them passes out some Dwarven armour to his colleague, announcing that he was confiscating it. He also snatched up my longbow!''

I'm fuming and refuse to accept that I won't be able to get it back, coming up with wild and ridiculous plans to do so.

''De Haan says that for me to get it back I will need a letter of permission or I can hire a thief to steal it back for me. Open to the idea of thievery I agree to go with him to the marketplace to see who I can find.''

''The market is like nothing I've ever seen before. ''

''It's loud and it's colourful and cramped. Merchants and shoppers and guards fill the walkways. I notice around thirty guards in one entrance way alone. Krysta's excited voice moves my attention and when I see what she's looking at I can understand and share her excitement. ''

''Elephants! And camels but they aren't nearly as impressive. ''

''The two of us watch them for a while before De Haan asks for me to accompany him, alone, just for a moment. I follow him, wondering what's going on. I don't have to wait to long to find out. ''

He's bought me a slave.

A real, living person.

''For gold. ''

''I am in such a state of outraged shock that it takes me a while to ask why he'd even do such a thing. ''

It's clear De Haan thinks I am overreacting and tries to explain his reasons for buying the slave.

Forcing myself to calm down, I listen.

''De Haan says he bought Sevier, my new slave, to act as a translator for me since I only speak Sidhe and many in these parts don't. He hastily adds that Sevier speaks and writes three languages fluently: Sidhe, Staspiel and Nayerese. He can also speak a small amount of Elvish though it isn't to the same standard as his other languages.''

''I relent at the look on Sevier's face and accept the small golden key that marks my ownership of Sevier from De Haan. Although I do not agree with slavery or the action that De Haan took, I can see that he was only trying to be nice. ''

''I walk back through the marketplace, with Sevier in tow, and meet up with the rest of the party. Brodhan is also outraged and the others are shocked about how Sevier came to be in our party. ''

''I sigh inwardly as I explain that this is how it has to be for now, I daren't release him whilst inside the city in case I end up like the man on the wheel outside. The others fall silent, obviously thinking the same. And that reselling him is worse than owning him. At least if he's with me I know he'll be treated well.''

I decide to try and get my bow back legally because I'm not sure I could really trust a thief in this city, or anywhere really!

''De Haan tells me that I'll need to talk to the Regime Council to get a letter of permission before the guards will even think of giving me the bow back. He tells me where to find them so I leave the marketplace, taking only Brodhan, Kemmor and Sevier with me. We walk up the hill to the wealthier part of the city.''

''This part of the city feels very different. It's clean and brighter up here, it's quieter too except for the few whol walk around leisurely having loud joking conversations. ''

''Whilst walking around wondering where we're meant to go we meet an older man who introduces himself as Lord Kreutze, a member of the Council! I tell him my sad tale of the guards who stole my bow and he offers for us to talk in his office. And oh, does he like to talk! Often in long winding tangents. Taking a seat at his desk he says he can write me a letter of permission - for a price. After perching on the old man's knee, giggling, twirling my long blonde hair and generally being charming and flirty, it turns out that price is a mere singular piece of gold. Quite the bargain, I tell myself.''

Thanking Lord Kreutze with a kiss on the cheek, I leave the office with my new letter of permission which also acts as a travel document, my three men in tow.

''Once we are outside Brodhan speaks of his discomfort watching me interact with the old Lord. I tease him a little but it's very obvious that he's still happy about his little sister trying to flirt with older men to get things she wants. Gently, I tell him that he has his size and his strength to make others to bend to his will, as a girl I have other attributes at my disposal. Touching his arm I tell him that it was only light hearted comments from a pretty young lady to cheer an old man's heart, and that I was never going to get into anything more sinister than that, not whilst I had my big brother acting as guard dog for me. He seems happier after that. Kemmor has that amused look on his face again but won't explain the reason behind it. ''

''The four of us walk over to the guard station, show them the letter and after a few minutes I finally have my bow back! I've had it for so long that it's become a part of me and not having it was strange. But that's all over now! Gleefully, I almost skip back into the lesser part of the city, eager to find my friends and celebrate getting my bow back.''

''The next morning arrives after a quiet night. The party say our farewells to De Haan and prepare to leave the city. ''

''Before we leave I make a quick trip down to the marketplace again to buy some armour for Krysta, Sevier and Ox - despite his protests that he doesn't even need any armour. I manage to find a good merchant and purchase leather armour for all three of them and it only costs one piece of gold total. ''

''Now that we have everything we're ready to move on. I can't wait to leave this city and never, ever, return if I can help it! ''

''My party of nine heads toward the main gate but the Head Guard that is stationed there is a deeply unpleasant man. He demands gold to open the gate. I really don't want to pay him so I look to find another way out when he calls after me that he'll have every guard looking for me and that I will not leave without paying. Although he has sparked my temper I know that trying to fight my way out would be suicidal, so instead I very reluctantly hand over my last gold coin. He waves us through and my party leave without a backward glance.''

''As we leave the Starrick borders we enter the Kalkon Wastes. ''

''I stop and motion to Sevier. I tell him that we're outside Starrick now and he looks at me with wary eyes that flicker with hope. Eyes that grow wide and shimmer with unspoken emotion as I use my golden key to unlock the cuffs around his wrists that mark his slave status. As the cuffs thud heavily into the ground, I swallow hard passed the hot rock in my throat and state that now he's free he can go wherever he'd like. I tell him that I'd be, as would the others, happy if he came with us to help complete my quest. He agrees to accompany me and becomes an official and willing member of the party. ''

''Kitral's voice brings me back to the here and now. He warns that the band of Teutogar warriors seem to be following us again, so we set off to try and keep the distance between us and them. ''

''Not long after leaving the city we come across a small group of men wearing slave bracelets. They appear to be desperate, dishing out threats of a fight they couldn't possibly win. After discovering they are runaways, slaves who escaped their masters, I hand over some of our rations. They fall upon it gratefully and after we warn them about the Teutogar in the area, we continue on our way. Fighting them would have been wrong. No one seems upset by the decision.''

''Our destination comes into view. ''

''Shodar is an abandoned hill side fortress built on top of a cave that looks like it is home to some less than welcome creatures. When we are close enough for the castle ruin to loom over us we decide that we should enter through the cave. ''

''Inside the mouth we find that we can travel in three directions. Left, right, or center up a flight of crumbling stone steps. ''

''Deciding on the left passage we find a kitchen of sorts, and the confirmation that goblins do live here. There are piles of animal and human remains, bones and rotting flesh. We quickly leave and hear noises that suggest that goblins are heading this way so race up the stairs to avoid them.''

''The stairs lead up in to a large circular room, that is undoubtedly part of the castle fortress. ''

''There is evidence of a fight here, men lay on the ground, dead. ''

''They are, or rather were, Shaadi warriors according to Kemmor. Whilst most of their gear is damaged some of it has survived even as their wielder fell. Looting the corpses means that an ash spear is found for Sevier and a round shield too, that I make sure goes to Krysta. These men died, but that doesn't mean that their gear can't keep my friends alive. ''

''In the middle of the room is a raised platform. ''

''Sitting on the dais is a chest, that turns out to be empty upon closer inspection. ''

''A clattering noise causes me to look up from the chest and I gasp as an armoured corpse rises from the floor. Krysta squeaks out that it must be a Whyte, as the Flyda begins to hum in my pack. It seems that the Whyte is afraid of the Flyda as it seems unable to close the distance between us.''

''Using this to our advantage we engage in a fight with it and it is Kemmor who brings it back down in the end. There isn't much time to celebrate though, the Teutogar come thudding up the stairs! They must have tracked us here somehow. ''

''In an intense and bloody battle we manage to dispatch each and every single one of them. ''

''Octalian proved himself to be a great fighter by killing three of them, Brodhan also killed three his war axe shining with fresh blood. Kemmor and Curradar kill two each, Curradar transforming before my eyes from a silent woodsman to a terrifying warrior. I brought down one as did Kisyah. Kitral cut down the chief and at last it was over. ''

''Brodhan, Ox, Kisyah and Kemmor all took significant injuries but Kemmor was the worst affected. ''

''Just as Krysta starts to cross the floor to try and heal him a goblin arrow clatters on the stone floor, missing her by inches. ''

''We hold our position and wait for them to come to us. We have the advantage here. We will not be beaten.''

Episode 4 -Shodar
The party awaited the arrival of the night goblins who eventually drove up the stairs to attack the party. A fierce battle began but the party was able to defeat the night goblins. As the fight broke up two Shadi warriors, survivors of the party that was killed off earlier. Salim and Ali were also looking for the diadem. Princess Kylah agreed that they were welcome to join the group but there was some wariness between them.

They tracked the movement of the mysterious "human" who had headed off with the diadem, going east with night goblins. They began to track them, following them into Teutogar land and winding up outside an old Teutogar hill-fort.

Kitral and Kisyah scouted the tours but Kitral went missing so the party scaled the walls and attacked, fighting a swarm of night goblins and teutogar warriors. A goblin spear thrust looked like it had killed Seveir but the spear tip had actually stuck in one of his books. The fight was fierce and long, with most of the party taking wounds. But Kitral was able to get back down the hill too.

A Nayerse warrior tried to barter his way out but he was cut down by Brodhan and an arrow from Kylah. The Diadem was recovered and the party celebrated. After some talk, Kylah decided to head off to Nayirim to find out how the Diadem worked.

Kylah's Journal

''We will not be beaten. Not here, not now, and not by damn goblins! ''

''We hold our positions, forcing the goblins to attack us in a bottleneck formation. This works to our advantage and we make short work of them, picking them off one by one, their bodies littering the floor, their blood soaking into the dusty stone. ''

''Brodhan kills five of them and I almost draw level by ending the lives of four. Again Ox gets three, Kemmor two and the twins one each. ''

''Loot from their filthy broken bodies gives us three more gold pieces and a few spears. Krysta is given one, she needs to be able to fight from a distance.''

''Two unknown armoured men suddenly appear at the top of the stairs. They're both carrying spears so the atmosphere is tense. ''

''The younger of the two steps forward and in a thick accent introduces himself as Salim, and waving a hand at his companion introduces his companion as Ali. They are both Shaadi warriors, the only survivors from an early encounter with the night goblins that now lay dead at our feet. ''

''I reluctantly offer brief introductions from my party before asking Salim why he was even here in the first place, as he is clearly not from here. What he said shocked me! He's looking for the diadem too! I tell him about my quest and Salim offers a deal: If I let him and Ali join my party, they'll help me find the diadem and once I've taken it home to show Father they'll then take it back to their lands. I am hesitant but agree in the end. Two more warriors, however temporary, can not be a bad thing. ''

''Salim tells me that the diadem is no longer here, it was taken by a man that Salim believes is Nayerese. He says the unknown thief looked to be heading East. ''

''Weakened from the fighting the party decides to rest and recover in the tower before trying to chase down the thief. We stay for three days before everyone is ok to travel. ''

''During that time, Krysta buries the Whyte allowing it's spirit to truly be at peace. ''

''I spend a fair amount of time with Kemmor, getting to know him. I discover that he is from the Fyrell tribe. He has a younger brother named Tulran, who was taken by the Formorians as a slave when he was only thirteen, Kemmor was eighteen. Kemmor tried to fight for his brother but he didn't get any results from his efforts. Furious and hurt he left his tribe and has never been back. He assumes his brother is dead. The subject is changed after that and it's like we never spoke about it at all. ''

The fourth day is bright and the ever growing party sets off early, eager to pick up the trail of the diadem.

''Heading East we soon find we're going the right way due to the mess the hoarde of goblins left behind, it's almost like a breadcrumb trail. The path changes direction slightly, now aiming South East into Teutogar lands. ''

''By the afternoon we can see where the mysterious man probably went, into the hill fort that seems to be well guarded according to the twins. They think around thirty teutogar warriors defend the fort during the day. They can only guess at night patrol numbers. ''

''I decide to send the twins to scout the fort, but insist they wait for the cover of darkness before moving off. As soon as the sun has set they are on their feet, eager to get going. Their plan is that Kitral (as the eldest and more confident climber) would scout the high watch tower, whilst Kisyah would take the lower levels and explore the walls and what lay behind them. ''

''The rest of us wait for their return. ''

''The moon is high in the sky by the time Kisyah returns. He tells us the inside of the fort has three buildings which may be barracks and a large fire in the middle of the courtyard area. Some of the teutogar are sat around the fire whilst the goblins are on patrol, fifteen or so according to Kisyah. He also says the teutogar and the goblins don't seem to like each other but are co-operating for some reason, and that the goblins seem to be the ones in control of the fort now. Looking around Kisyah notices his brother isn't back yet. I reassure him and say I'm sure he won't be much longer. More time passes and Kitral is still nowhere to be seen. This is enough waiting, I agree we should go and find him. ''

''The party scale the wall but are soon spotted by goblins on patrol so we kill as many as we can, as quickly as we can. The teutogar also join the fight and a small bald boy is seen on the wall! Kitral is sneaking to our aid and I've never been happier to see him than right now. I was terrified he'd been killed! ''

''As the goblins and teutogar warriors are picked off one by one I see Sevier fall, a goblin spear in his chest. I fire arrows into the goblin and rush to Sevier, who is alive! The spear tip is lodged inside one of Sevier's books and he is completely unharmed except for a few bruises from the fall.''

''As our enemies lose the advantage of numbers a new foe steps out. The man who stole the diadem! He starts a monologue about "The Dark Legion" but is interrupted by a mighty hit from Brodhan's axe. I also get him with my arrows and eventually he falls down dead.''

With their master dead the remaining goblins try to flee but we don't let them, striking them all down.

''Brodhan is a force to be reckoned with indeed! He killed six of our enemies, and I brought down five in the end. Kitral managed four, Kemmor three, Ox and Curradar one each. Salim and Ali proved to be a good addition to the party, slaying two and one respectively. ''

''Kicking the thief onto his back, Brodhan loots his body, taking his longsword, round shield and chainmail. Even though the armour is damaged it can be repaired by someone skilled in such ways. It'll be useful to keep it. Brodhan then let's out a cry of victory and holds the diadem up in the air.''

It's been found!

''Still, I get Krysta to check if it's the real thing. She seems confident that it is. Her eyes fall to the dead man at her feet and a puzzled look covers her face. She says she's not sure how but she thinks she recognises the symbols on his armour, they're occult and may be linked to demons and demonic worship.''

''If that's true then I am doubly pleased we killed him. ''

Now that I have the diadem I feel confused.

''I'm not sure taking it straight to Father is a good idea. ''

''Salim suggests going to Nayirim if I wish to know more about it, and how to use it. Though Brodhan is keen to return home he says he will continue to follow me wherever my quest takes me. Krysta says she feels that we, and she in particular, could learn a lot from going to the city. It is rumoured to have many magic users there. Seeing her face, my mind is made up.''

''We're going to Nayirim to learn more before we head for the tribe lands again. It's my quest after all, and we're closer to Nayirim than home anyway....''

Episode 5 -Nayirim
The Party made for Nayirim, stopping off at an Inn once they arrived within Nayerse borders. The Inn-Keeper warned them of Nayirim being "a den of thieves", a claim which would be proven true, and of missing children within the city.

The Party arrived in the city itself, encountering the somewhat lax guards who hassled Salim and Ali. They also were briefly asked if they had seen the missing Nayerse noble, whom it turned out they had killed in the previous episode! The guards told them that Lord Kotoros was looking for him as he was a relative (a son).

The Party went to the Bright Leaf, an inn owned by Paropholos, a retired mercenary colleague of Kemmor. The veteran soldier is assisted in running the Bright Leaf by his daughters and his wife. One daughter, Sabra, appeared to take a liking to Ocatalian.

The party shooed away a group of ruffians who claimed to work for Nayerse gangster Pitos the Hawk. Paropholos suggested that the party go and speak to Milodemus, a magic user who could explain how the diadem worked.

The party found him in the Garden District. He confirmed that the diadem needed to be taken to a site with magical power to activate it, suggesting that either Isle of Faecelos or the Greyhorn Mountains, where a noted and ancient seer lives. The Party decided to go to the Greyhorn mountains. Miloedemus offered to train Krysta as well.

To make ends meet during the month while Krysta was being trained, they took up jobs working here and there as guards. Octalian, Kemmor, Brodhan and Curradar took part in a house clearance for the city guard. However whilst Kylah was wandering the market-place her diadem was stolen by Lorolei, a pick-pocket in the employ of Pitos the Hawk.

The Party confronted Pitos, who wanted fifteen gold in return for the Diadem or for them to rob Lord Astinos's treasure vault. The party decided to use force, killing Pitos and a large number of his men. Lorolei fled and Krejac, Pitos's right hand man, surrendered. During the fight he came within a whisker of splitting Kisyah in two with a swing of his long-sword. Seveir also had a near miss as a Stellato nearly ran him through but Sevier tripped over and the blade went over his head.

The Party were warned that Pitos worked for The Red Prince, a mysterious crime-overlord. Kylah, Sevier and Brodhan later met Lord Kastagos, a senior retainer for House Kotoros who asked them about the missing Nayerse noble who he said was his cousin, Jerjarod Kotoros. After making a good impression on Lord Kastagos, he introduced Princess Kylah to the royal court. She was invited to a (somewhat disastrous) dinner date by Lord Astinos to meet his loutish son. She also met the erudite Prince Elibar, the second in line to the Nayerse throne. He made a good impression on her and in the end offered to join their expedition north.

Finally the party followed up investigations into the missing children, following them to the Wagon District, informally known as the Pit. Long Tarn was abducting children and apparently handing them over to the rogue magic user Rusibel. The party once again used the edges of their blades and slew Long Tarn and Rusibel.

The party now plans to head north to the dangerous and contested Greyhorn Mountains.

Kylah's Journal

''After a couple of days of uneventful walking my quest party and I reach Nayirim lands. Spotting an inn in the distance the decision is made to stop there for the night. ''

''Entering the inn we make our way over to the fire and settle down comfortably in front of it. Salim kindly buys a round of beers and negotiates us staying in the barn for the night. The innkeeper brings over some simple but tasty food for us and when he mentions he has some roast boar Ox's ears prick up hopefully. Trying not to laugh I order more drinks and the boar too, we may as well eat well when we can I tell Ox. I've spent a total of two gold pieces on our barn, all our food and drinks, a very good price indeed.''

''The group have a great time, joking and eating. I start dancing with Krysta and encourage the boys to get up and dance too. Kitral is the first up which is no surprise really seeing as he's the life and soul of any party. Kisyah is reluctant to dance but does play his pipe whilst Ox drums on the table laughing loudly as he spills his cup. I drag my brother up and maneuver him over to Krysta who blushes when she realises what I'm doing. Giving her a wink I skip off to go and find Kemmor. He's sat at the table looking relaxed, tapping his foot in a steady rhythm. ''

''Firelight brings out the tones in his hair and it catches in his eyes... ''

''I feel my legs get a little unsteady and my breath catches in my throat like I've been running for miles. ''

Maybe I've had a little too much to drink?

''Giggling, I strut over to Kemmor who smiles up at me and greets me as "Princess" which earns him a playful smack on the arm. I remind him of his promise to keep my secret. ''

''He's doing that smile again. I wish I knew what it meant.''

''I hold out my hand in front of him and he just looks at it. "You wouldn't make a lady beg for a dance would you Sir Knight?" I say to him, trying to sound regal, but I ruin that effect by giggling again at the end. Kemmor takes my hand though as he stands, and twirls me around.''

''My head feels strange, lights are bright and blurred yet I see my friends faces in high focus. Their energy fuels mine and I feel like I'm just Kylah and I don't have destinies to fulfill or quests to follow, I'm just Kylah and I'm with my best friends who have become like a new tribe to me.''

''I wrap my arms around Kemmor's neck and squeeze him as we spin around. He smells like smoke and leather and rain and beer. My head feels light and there's a flipping sensation in my stomach as his voice whispers in my ear "having fun... princess?" I nod against him and fight a strange urge to plant a small kiss on his throat. ''

''We all sing and drink and dance until the fire is nothing but embers, it feels like forever but also like mere moments have passed by. Everyone stumbles their way to the barn and just like that the night is over. ''

''The next morning dawns bright, too bright for my slightly sore head! We pack up and march to the city. It takes maybe half the morning to reach the guards on duty. They search the horse and his bags as is apparently the norm on arrival here. The guards give Salim and Ali some trouble but they don't rise to it. They just seem to set their expressions to blankness and wait for the guards to get bored, which they do. The guards ask us if we've seen a missing man outside the city. They say his name is Jerjarod of House Kotoros and he's the second son of a Lord in the city, then they give a description of him. ''

''Oh yes we've seen him... And killed him. ''

''The missing noble is none other than the diadem thief from the hillfort! Luckily we all seem to work this out at the same time and wearing our best concerned or blank expressions tell the guards we haven't seen a man matching that description. But if we do encounter him we'll be sure to urge him to return to the city. It feels like my group have an unspoken agreement to deny all knowledge of Jerjarod which suits me just fine whilst we're in Nayirim.''

The guards allow us to pass through the gates into the city at last.

''The streets are busy, women gossip in doorways whilst guards are on patrol. Beggars sit unnoticed and traders yell about their wares. And there's something else...''

''There's magic here. ''

''A man stands in front of a crowd and they ooh and ahh and laugh in nervous excitement. He performs something and one of the twins guess that he is a magician, and Krysta's eyes grow wide and she's on her way overto watch from a closer distance. But this magic man makes a mistake and his chicken trick is exposed as just that, a trick. ''

He's fake.

''Krysta's face drops and she tries to hide her disappointment behind her hair. I reassure her that we'll find real magic users here and she gives a small smile.''

''Kemmor mentions that he has an old friend in this area and he'd like to go and pay him a visit so he leads the party to the Bright Leaf inn. Inside there are a few men drinking quietly, alone or in small groups. A huge dark man steps out from behind the bar and booms out Kemmor's name. He's introduced as Paropholos, owner of the inn and a retired mercenary who worked with Kemmor in the past.''

''The two men start catching up when a young girl walks through carrying a tray of half eaten food. Paropholos introduces her as his youngest daughter, Sabra. ''

''She's gorgeous, pale skin with hair that is long and the colour of a raven's wing. She's wearing a short skirt that shows off her long legs. She sends Ox a cheeky wink and continues her work. ''

She's the same age as me but I feel very childlike compared to her....

''I am pulled out of my thoughts by the arrival of three men, who are unpleasant to say the least. They are loud and rude and expect to be treated like kings otherwise their leader would hear about it. Speaking up, I ask who their leader is and they laugh at me as they tell me "Pitos the Hawk, obviously" ''

''Turns out he's some sort of gangster leader in these parts. ''

''As awful as the men were, we would have ignored them quite happily. But, they made a grab at Sabra... And the men of the party did not like that at all. They forced the thugs to leave. ''

Paropholos seemed a little concerned about consequences but did appreciate what the guys did for him and his girl.

''He asks us what we're doing in Nayirim and I tell him about my quest and the diadem. I trust him, he seems nice and Kemmor trusts him too so he must be ok. He says we'd probably benefit from going to see Milodemus, a well known magic user who lives in the garden district. ''

''Ox, Curradar, Salim and Ali all stay behind at the inn but the rest of us go to find Milodemus. ''

He is surprisingly easy to find, his little shack exactly where we were told it would be.

''I knock on the door and a gruff voice tells me to go away. I'm a little taken aback but I knock again and call out that I'm looking for Milodemus and the door opens. The old man stood in the doorway has an annoyed look on his face. Maybe he's busy. ''

''Just as he's about to shut the door on us he spots Krysta. He asks her if she's gifted and she nods. The old man pauses, then ushers us all inside. Somehow it feels bigger than it looked from the outside. ''

''I make eye contact with Krysta and she nods slightly, confirming she senses he has power and is the one we're looking for. ''

''Milodemus moves a cat out of his way and sits down, he tells us the cat is called Fenix. Fenix just stares at us. ''

''The silence in the room becomes uncomfortable so I start to tell the old man why we've come and he interrupts to ask Krysta about her training so she tells him about Volvein and that she is his apprentice. Milodemus gestures to me to continue talking. I tell him I've found Harula's Diadem and we are hoping to learn how it works. ''

''Milodemus reveals that the diadem has many rumoured powers, one of them being the ability to see into the future. He also says he doesn't know how to use it. He knows it needs to be used in a place of power such as the nearby Island of Facelos, but if we want to learn how to use it we should consider heading to the Greyhorn Mountains in the North, an ancient and powerful Seer supposedly lives there and he'll know how it works.''

''It makes sense to learn how to use it before we journey to a place of power so I decide that we should seek the Seer. ''

''I thank Milodemus and turn to leave but Krysta's soft voice saying my name stops me. Milodemus gestures at Krysta and tells me he could train her, that she has huge potential she just needs someone to guide her. ''

''Krysta can't look at me. ''

Does she think I'm upset?

''I ask Milodemus how long training her would take and Krysta looks almost pained and when Milodemus replies that it could take a few months her eyes close and I swear I see a tear fall. Milodemus continues, saying he could train her for a month and get through as much as possible in that time since she's already gifted so should be a quick learner. ''

''I cross the room to Krysta and take her hand and she looks at me with big shining eyes. I ask her if she wants to be trained and tears fill her eyes. I tell her it's ok to say yes, and she nods at me. Her voice is calm when she says she does want to but she doesn't want to be left behind or delay my quest.''

''My heart squeezes. ''

''"Krysta, you've become my best friend! And you've grown so much since we left! This isn't 'just' my journey, it's yours too... This is an incredible opportunity and I don't want you to have to pass it by unless you really don't want to do it. We'll stay in the city for a month and we'll all carry on together. I'll never leave you behind..." ''

Tears spill down my cheeks and Krysta pulls me into a tight hug and agrees to train with Milodemus for a month, before we regroup and head North - together.

''Leaving Krysta to get started on her training, the rest of us head down to the marketplace to sell items we've looted. Kitral mentions he feels like we're being followed but he can't detect who it is. Kisyah can't see them either. Trying to stay alert, I sell the looted items for one golden coin which I then spend on getting the broken chainmail repaired. Once it is finished I go to put away when I notice the diadem is gone!''

Gone.

Not in my pack.

''Gone. ''

''I've been pickpocketed and I'm furious, with the thief (obviously) and also myself as I must have let myself become distracted otherwise they'd never have gotten it. ''

''Nayirim's reputation of being a den of thieves seems to be accurate.... ''

''I storm back to the Bright Leaf and Sabra asks what's happened. I tell her someone has stolen my diadem and she sighs and then tells me that the thieves in the city answer to Pitos the Hawk. She says he owns an establishment called The Brindled Tiger and that the thief I am looking for is probably there. ''

Leaving Salim and Ali behind, the rest of my party head to the inn owned by the infamous gangster.

''We walk into the dark bar and Pitos is here, with a girl who has a foxy face stood nearby. Her lips curl up into a victorious smile when she sees us. The diadem is in her hands and she waves it at me. ''

''Pitos spreads his arms wide in a welcoming gesture, mocking us. When it is clear we won't play along with his game he says he wondered when we'd meet. He waves his hand at the girl and introduces her as Lorolei and makes a comment about us meeting before. He jerks his head toward the man on his right, says he's Krejac. Krejac just cracks his knuckles and tries to stare us down. ''

''Pitos claps his hands and announces we should get down to the business at hand. He says he'll give my tiar back for 15 pieces of gold. Part of me is furious, as I can't afford his price, another part of me is thrilled because he clearly has no idea what my "tiara" actually is.''

''I tell him the price is too steep and he puts on a show of being apologetic and trying to be reasonable. He offers another way to get it back, this time he says all we have to do is to steal from Lord Astino's vault. That would make my party no better than his merry band of thugs and I tell him so.''

''Ox and Brodhan are confident that we could take it back by force so we engage in combat with them. ''

''The sneaky Lorolei fled as soon as she was able, dodging my arrows in her escape. The fight was short, as soon as I killed Pitos, Krejac and the remaining men surrendered.''

''Kitral, Ox, Kemmor and me all killed two men each and Kisyah got one. Sevier very nearly died but tripping over his feet meant a blow meant for his neck sailed over his head instead.''

''I snatch back my diadem from Pitos the Hawk's still-warm dead fingers. I feel a sense of smug pride. Although I never set out to be a killer it seems that I, and the rest of my friends, are quite good at it. We've not lost a fight and I know we're only getting stronger. The dead man in front of me was brought down by a fifteen year old "barbarian" He terrorised the people of this city and now he's dead.''

''Time passes and Krysta continues her training with Milodemus. My party, minus Salim, Ali and Krysta, go out to find House Kotoros and we soon discover that they can be found in the Tower of Paladim. I was curious about the diadem thief from the hill fort and thought approaching his family may give us clues about why he was interested in the diadem so much that he'd work with night goblins.''

''The tower is very big and made of white marble, it seems to scream out wealth. The tower also has a beautiful garden.''

I enter the tower with Brodhan and Sevier by my side, the rest of the party wait outside.

''We are met by Lord Kastagos who wastes no time in showing us a tapestry portrait of Jerjarod, his son, who has been away from home for the last ten years. We tell him that we have seen him and the Lord's eyes are filled with hope, but that hope is dimmed when we tell him that his son was found in Teutogar lands leading a horde of night goblins, and the hope is extinguished altogether when we say we don't know what happened to him as we fled the hill fort and the goblins that had it. ''

''Lord Kastagos gives me two pieces of gold to keep quiet about what Jerjarod was doing. I almost feel bad for not telling him that his son is actually dead.''

''As some sort of thanks Lord Kastagos arranges for me to be introduced at Court. He gives me a brief up and down glance and says I can borrow a dress from his niece's wardrobe so I look presentable. A serving girl appears and leads me off to a bedroom so I can prepare. I choose a pale blue dress to wear, the serving girl brushes my hair and another appears and drapes a necklace around my neck.''

''I meet up with Brodhan again and we head out to meet the others in the courtyard to let them know what is going on. Kemmor does a double take when he sees me which makes me a little shy and giggly.''

''Ox and Kemmor decide to stay in the courtyard to wait for me,Brodhan and Sevier to return, The rest of the party leave to do other things. Giving the two boys a little wave I walk up the steps with my brother and Sevier and enter the Nayerese Court.''

''The throne room is stunning, walls of white marble with candles set into the stone. A magnificent waterfall cascades down the far wall and the splash pool flows out into a delicately winding stream that ends near the throne,the throne that the King is currently sat upon. Hundreds of guards are spread out throughout the room.''

''Lord Kastagos introduces me and Brodhan to Lord Astinos, who after a few minutes of light chatting issues me a dinner invite as he has an unmarried son... I try not to look too horrified at the implication he'd like to match us whilst Brodhan does his best to keep a straight face. As I don't want to be rude I accept the Lord's invitation as a loud man announces Prince Elibar to the room.''

''We are introduced to the Prince, who is moderately dressed unlike some of the other nobles in attendance, and is very handsome. ''

''We make small talk before talking about the missing children rumours that may possibly be linked to pit fighting. The name "The Red Prince" is mentioned, though no one knows he is, as he is always masked according to reports. There is a rumour that he may be an aristocrat. ''

''The conversation turns to the Formorian invasion and Prince Elibar discloses that even if all the Sidhe tribes united, and even if Nayirim gave aid, it wouldn't be enough to defeat them. It's difficult to accept that we are that outnumbered, and I start feeling hopeless about us ever being free again. Brodhan touches my arm and brings me back to the room. Elibar makes a small comment about Brodhan being a great guard, to look after me so well physically, and emotionally, which makes both of us laugh. Brodhan tells Elibar that he is my eldest brother, not a guard. Elibar joins our laughter and says it explains our resemblance to each other. ''

''He changes the subject again, this time talking about the places he's seen and things he's learned. As the second son he isn't heir to the throne so he has a slightly more relaxed lifestyle. He is reasonably free to pursue knowledge and he does so with exploration expeditions. He mentions that he is planning a trip North, to the mountains. I tell him that my party is considering going to the mountains next month, Elibar then suggests that we could travel together but gives me time to think about it. ''

''I ask a few questions about the Island of Facelos but very little is known about it except it is infested with night goblins and would likely need military intervention for people to be able to access the island. ''

''A little girl enters the room and Elibar smiles widely when he sees her, he tells us that she's his little sister. Princess Elaria is six years old and has been primped to perfection apart from a small curl that has come loose and hangs over one of her eyes.''

''Elibar's smile falters when a woman follows Elaria into the room. He tells us that is Lady Wespere and I understand why he isn't pleased to see her; I've heard gossip around the city about her being the King's mistress. ''

''Prince Elibar gives him apologies and leaves soon after. He thanks Sevier for his help with the translating. Brodhan, Sevier and I work our way around the room, obtaining several more dinner invites before retiring back to the Bright Leaf.''

''The next morning the party come together again to discuss the events of the nigh before, Brodhan gently teasing me about my dinner date with Lord Astinos' son. The twins' sharp ears were able to confirm some of the gossip I'd heard whilst at Court. Princess Elaria is in fact only Elibar's half sister, but she has been legitimised by the King which is why she has a title and the princes refer to her as if she were their full-blood sister. Her mother isn't Lady Wespere though, her mother was the former mistress. The Queen is mother to both princes, though it is well known that she favours Elibar whilst the King favours the Crown Prince. The Queen is also a hoarder of anything to do with magic and mysticism.''

''Kitral also share information he heard about the missing children, it's not much but it's starting to add up. The children are connected to the Wagon District and The Pits. Kisyah has news on Pitos' gang, Krejac has seemingly taken over and put himself in charge. Kisyah also tells us that the gang have orders to kill my party on sight if we stray into their territories by the docks. ''

As a group we agree to steer clear!

''Krysta has a message sent to me, letting me know that she's well and her training is going really well. I'm pleased for her, I can almost feel the joy pour from the paper as she describes the things she's learning and how she feels she'd getting stronger. There's a little bit at the end that states she's relieved that Milodemus has no ulterior motives concerning her.''

''Salim and Ali have found a position doing some guard work, the twins are still investigating about the missing children and the boys have found work doing house clearances. Sevier stays with me because I need him to act as translator as I go about the city, preparing for my upcoming dinner with Lord Astinos and his son that night.''

''That evening just before I head out for dinner the twins arrive back at the inn and quickly share information they've discovered about The Pits children. ''

''It seems The Pits is a slum area within the Wagon District, and as a result is an area that the city watch just don't care about. Kitral befriended a beggar called Blind Eck. Blind Eck told Kitral that someone called Long Tarn is taking beggar children, and a man who wears a black hood visits Long Tarn often and the children seem to disappear. Kitral reveals he's managed to find out where Long Tarn lives...''

''I leave the inn to go to dinner with Sevier, the boys coming up with ideas about what they'd like to do to Long Tarn. ''

''The dinner is a disaster. I feel sorry for Lord Astinos actually. He tried very hard to keep the conversations flowing but between my struggles with the language and his son's struggles to not talk with food in his mouth most conversation died out quickly. My impression of the son is poor at best, he has terrible table manners and had no interest in those around him unless they were a serving girl. Lord Astinos was clearly very embarrassed of his son's behaviour. Sevier and I left as soon as we were able. ''

''I bumped into Prince Elibar on my way back down to the inn. He asks if I have time to walk with him and I tell him yes. After feeling like I'd been at dinner for hours I was surprised to see it was still light out, a gentle breeze blowing a sweet scent through the air. The gardens must be nearby, and they were as that's where Elibar took me to walk.''

''The palace gardens are beautiful, very carefully managed. There are fruit trees with marble benches beneath them, flowered hedges mark out the walkways and rows of delicate blooms make intricate shapes in the remaining spaces. There are so many colours, all shades and hues imaginable. I stop and gently run my fingers over the petals of some lilac flowers with long bendy stems. Elibar smiles at me and picks a flower, also purple, but this one is a mid-purple with a midnight toned vein running through each petal, It's beautiful and I blush as he offers it to me. He smiles again. ''

So I don't collapse into a fit of nervous girlish giggling I tell Elibar what I've heard about The Pits and we fall into comfortable silence as we walk.

''He breaks the silence by conversing in Sidhe, something I appreciate as I can talk freely and easily, not having to rely on Sevier to translate for me. The conversation is lighthearted and I'm having fun.''

''As it is starting to get dark I tell Elibar I ought to be getting back to my party and he nods. Before we leave each other he mentions the mountain quest again, I tell him I'll talk it over with the others and let him know in a couple of days. The Prince smiles at me and bids me goodnight. ''

''I arrive back at the inn and find the party gathered around the fire, Ox excitedly telling Kitral about the fight they'd just had. It turns out that whilst I was out Ox, Kemmor, Curradar and Brodhan had a house clearing job to do. Kemmor killed one man, Curradar got two and Brodhan had slain five! They were given a piece of gold for their trouble. Brodhan looks at the flower I'm still carrying and asks if I had a good dinner, I tell him no, smile and tell them all goodnight.''

Episode 6 -The Bastion
The party welcomed Prince Elibar Kayne, the second son of Nerood Kayne the King of Nayirim, to the party. His mother gave the party three gold to see them off and his father gifted some furs to the party to make sure that they wouldn't freeze in the Greyhorn mountains.

Parapholos's daughter Sabra asked to join the party, craving adventure and a change of scene. Paraopholos originally denied the request but in the end relented, feeling that she would just leave anyway if he said no. He charged Kemmor with making sure she came back unharmed.

The party journeyed north, stopping off at the tower of Lord Wyvernsbruck. He hosted the party where Krysta, Sabra and Kylah shared a room and had a girly chat, revealing that Krysta had feelings for Brodhan and that Kylah's growing attraction to Kemmor.

The party entered Sudar the next day, seeing the temperature drop by the hour. They reached the last Inn before the Greyhorn mountains at the foot of the mountain, known as the Bastion. The homely Inn was jointly owned by tough Sudarest Launatti, affable Nayerse Lakis and the exotic barmaid Dexxaria. Also staying was a Sudarese merchant called Malacam, from whom the party purchased some Fire Lotus Root, a potent healing drug.

The party also met a Svaerick mercenary called Torvaldar and his Sasari colleague Nadim. They spoke about potentially hiring the two to join the party, though there was some concern that they couldn't be trusted. A party of rowdy and drunk Sudarese challenged Octalian to a wrestling match which he comfortably won. On her way back to her room Kylah was able to engineer a kiss with Kemmor, confirming their mutual attraction to each other.

A howling blizzard descended early the next morning, trapping the party inside the Bastion and one of the Sudarese was found murdered. Lakis and Launatti began to investigate, giving Kylah an hour to prove that Ocatlain or Kisyah, who were both implicated, hadn't murdered the Sudarese man.

In the store-room Kylah and Sabra found a chest with a false bottom and asked for Malacam to open it. He did so, reluctantly and a Sassari assassin was hiding inside! He killed Launatti with a swing of his long-sword and Elibar, Sabra and Kylah had to fight the assassin and the merchant, overcoming them both. Kylah took a bad cut in the process and Krysta had to heal her. Overcome with seeing her wounded, Kemmor rushed to her side revealing to the oblivious Brodhan what was going on between them.

The next day the party began the journey up the Greyhorn, finding the uphill climb exhilarating and a real challenge. They set a steady pace and by the second day they saw that they were being followed by a large party of about fifty or so.

The party reached the plateau but were beset with a blizzard which trapped the party for two days. Willing to risk it, the party pushed on, suffering terribly in the ice and snow but eventually reaching the Sudarese hamlet of Chopak. They were allowed in, though were largely disarmed. They met Sudarese guide and archer Tinlen who offered to take them to the Woada Kavir, though he stated it was considered to be haunted. A local Woadejar, travelling monk, offered to accompany them also. He was asked to join the party. Chodak became the seventeenth member of the party

They set out onto the frozen plain, a three day trek across the blizzard strewn plain but it was hard going. Sabra, Seveir, Krysta and Kisyah all suffered badly in the blizzard but they narrowly reached the Woada, cut into the side of a mountain. A tribe of Hill Goblins had made camp there, there was no way to evade. A Hill Goblin warned them that the lands belonged to "Chief Wolf-Stabber" but the party pressed on, starting a fierce battle.

Nadim came to the fore, proving to be a fine archer. Torvaldar took half a dozen wounds and looked like he would die but narrowly survived. Poor Kisyah took an arrow in the side which nearly killed him and Brodhan took more than seven arrows, again nearly falling. But in the end the Hill Goblins were routed after Brodhan unleashed a flurry of blows with his Dwarf-Forged Warhammer. The party, bloodied and wounded, waited at the foot of the Woada, afraid that what lay within could prove to be the death of some in the party....

Episode 7 -The Woada Kavir
The party moved inside the Woada-Kavir. The biting cold chilled all to their bones, Krysta stating that some sort of curse was on the place which was the reason for the unnatural cold. The party found the first chamber littered with goblin and human bones, with a series of stone-plinths that had skeletal remains on them. The party debated taking the golden items left on the plinths but moved on, finding another plinth with a bronze axe on it in another chamber.

The party reached a stone-staircase, covered in ice. Salim and Brodhan both tripped on it, suffering bruises and an embarrassment. More bones were found, this time seemingly belonging to a woman and children. A stone altar had been left, with unspoiled fruit, golden items and a pair of doe-skin gloves. These were taken by the party but this caused a sheet of ice to cover the corridor, blocking the way. The party were forced to go into a cave where a pile of broken bones lay on the floor.

Goblins, humans and other animals had been eaten here, the culprit was a huge antlered bear which was using a hole in the ceiling to get in and out to hunt. But from the bright blue glow of it's eyes it was clear that it had been enchanted. The party fought the fell creature, Brodhan finally bringing it down. But death simply saw it stand up and fight on as a giant Ice-Wraith. Brodhan brought it down a second time, even as two more human sized wraiths attacked and were dispatched. Sabra was sent back down using the hole in the cave-wall as the party moved on.

A throne room was bedecked with bronze and gold, more skeletal remains of a King and his retainers waited here. They rose to their feet as Ice-Wraiths and fought the party in a fierce battle. A swing of a bronze axe cut Octalian down. But moments later he had gotten to his feet and in baresark rage, smashed the Wraith to pieces. Chodak stated that clearly the Fates had some use for Octalian.

With the Wraiths defeated, the party had a way clear to the next level.

Episode 8 -The Seer
The party reached the summit of the Woada Kavir and finally met the Seer. Lariffa Night-Wing, an ancient Elven Seer had carved out a room of ice and didn't want visitors but Chodak vay Ayasse asked to be allowed to learn from him. The seer allowed the party in and despite his emaciated appearance, he was clearly a being of some power.

He effortlessly showed the party visions with the Diadem, showing them a great armada of warships coming across the ocean to Erdath, stating that they were the only way to defeat the Formorians. He also showed them the location of the Stormbreaker, an ancient magical device of Nayerese legend on the Island of Degados.

Another vision showed the party the Dark Legion, followers of a Demon who were also seeking the Diadem. The Demon that they saw, a beautiful but eerie female figure, She appeared to see he party and tried to converse with them but Krysta called for the vision to end!

However Lariffa warned them that the others who had been left behind were now under attack from Hill Goblins so the party hurried up to come to their aid. It was just in time too as Torvaldar, Nadim, Sabra, Sevier and Kisyah faced a desperate battle against more Hill Goblins. Torvaldar cut down three or four of them until they swarmed the veteran mercenary, killing him.

Nadim rained arrows down on them, as did Sevier, until the black feathers of a Hill goblin arrow struck Sevier in the neck, dropping him dead to the ice. But before the end came for the last three, the others arrived, driving the Goblins back.

With the ice too thick to bury the dead, a pyre was made and they were burned. Chodak said a prayer for them and Brodhan spoke that at least Sevier had died free. They began the sad trek back to Copak. Over the week long journey they spoke of where to go next and decided that they would go to the Isle of Facelos to use the Diadem in a site of power to see what was occurring back home.

However the little hamlet of Copak now faced a siege from a massive warband of Hill Goblins! Kylah decided that the group would stay and fight, to help protect the village.

Episode 9 -the Siege of Copak
Chief Wolf-Stabber and his hundreds of Hill Goblins had called for the party to walk away and leave the village to its fate. But they had refused. Wolf-Stabber was joined by a group from the Dark Legion who were also looking for the Diadem.

Kylah made a quick council of war and decided to split her party up to defend the walls and the gates. Pits were dug, the walls and gate were reinforced and javelins were carved out. The warriors were healed as much as they could be and last prayers were said.

Krysta offered to give Kemmor and Kylah a hand-fastening to make them man and wife, just in case and this was done, Brodhan serving as a witness. Prince Elibar lead the defense of one wall whilst Rabatti, the village elder, lead the defense on the other. Brodhan and Kemmor lead the defense at the gate whilst Chodak stayed back to heal the wounded.

When the flood of Hill Goblins, supported by Ork mercenaries and two fearsome trolls assault the little hamlet, there was no time to be a bystander. The hamlets inhabitants, men, women and even children took up weapons and joined the defense. Young lads killed orcs and goblins with arrows and women fought with their bare hands with a fury that belied their small size. And yet peaceful villagers died at the spearpoint of a Hill Goblin or cloven by an Orcish falchion. But the Sudarese gave as good as they got.

Kylah was a force of nature, shooting arrows and bringing down two mighty trolls. Brodhan and Prince Elibar cut down anything that tried to get past them and everyone fought with great bravery. As one wall looked lost, Salim and Ali fought side by side, as ever, keeping the tide from sweeping over until a spear thrust aimed for Salim was stopped by his faithful old retainer Ali who fell cut down at his friends feet.

But the wall did not fall and neither did the gate. Wolf-Stabber himself, aided by three Dark Legionares attempted to break the gate but even the wily old veteran chieftain couldn't break the gate down and he fell too. The siege had ended after a full day of ferocious fighting and death. The villagers mourned the dead and celebrated their deliverance. They offered to bury Ali with their own, a high honor which Salim accepted.

The party marched back to Nayirim, learning that the young Sudarese King was on his way to relieve his people. A month in the city of Nayirim, staying in the Princes estate, would be a welcome change of pace for the party.

Episode 10 -Blood on the Streets
Each member of the party spent their time differently in Nayirim. Krysta returned to study with Milodemus, who also warned Kylah on the danger that the Dark Legion are after the diadem and the Storm-Breaker. Kemmor spent time training with the palace-guards. Kylah took some time to talk with Salim, who was still brooding on the loss of his friend Ali.

Kitral and Chodak wandered the city. Kitral learned of a possible new recruit, a magic user called Lotifilos.

Kylah, Brodhan and Krysta visited him, teaching in a small shack outside a temple. The tall, gangly and clumsy lad was keen to join the party, as a former magician's apprentice he had the gift but not much power. Krysta said that he would learn if he was with them. So Kylah spoke to Prince Elibar and arranged for a replacement teacher to be sent and Lotifilos, or Lots as he was nicknamed by his old mentor, joined the group.

Brodhan, Ox, Salim. Curradar and Kemmor got work on a house clearance, much as they had last time. But this time the house was crawling with brigands, supported by a pair of deadly stellatos. The brigands mocked Brodhan's men, stating that they were here for the bounty on them! A brutal melee began with the brigands swarming the party. Ox and Brodhan absorbed multiple blows with Ox nearly brought to his knees and Brodhan struck a mighty blow on the head, causing him to fall. But the young Prince got back to his feet, unsteadily, in time to strike down his opponents.

As the fighting progressed, Salim found himself one on one with a Stellato. The veteran mercenary parried a swing from Salim's longsword, pivoted and ran him through. Salim sank to the ground and died quickly. Kemmor was able to cut his way through to avenge Salim but it was too late to save him. The fight had only narrowly been won. Krejac, the lieutenant of Pitos the Hawk, had put a bounty on the party (save for Elibar) and Brodhan was keen to get revenge. Elibar advised against it and the party allowed cooler heads to prevail.

Kylah took Elibar's advice and brought veteran swordsman and adventurer Draxos into the party. An old companion of the Prince, he added a simple, cheerful warrior to the party. The party then took up the offer of a mission for Lord Kurelon, to rescue a lost artifact from from his vaults.

The necklace proved to be guarded by Wights but the party were able to defeat them, in large part thanks to Kylah's expert archery. The necklace, however, proved to belong to House Lencini. So Kylah upped the price to eight gold!

The party hired the charter of the "Lucky Wanderer", Captain Zollo's ship and his little crew of nine. The party set sail for the Island of Facelos.

Episode 11 -The Lucky Wanderer
The Lucky Wanderer began to sail for Facelos as the party adjusted to a life at sea. Ox and Curradar both found being on a boat very hard and suffered with bad sea sickness. Meanwhile the first mate, Saphalon, looked suspiciously at the women aboard the ship, fearing that they would bring bad luck.

The ship stopped off briefly at Tarylos to pick up food, water and fresh lines before arriving at Facelos which, sure enough, had been overrun by Night Goblins. A tough decision was made to scale the cliffs on the far-side of the Island and Tinlen and Kisyah began to climb. Poor Tinlen lost his grip before reaching the top and fell, surviving but stunned, He was rescued from drowning by the crew!

Prince Elibar took up the challenge and climbed the cliff, helping little Kisyah with the pulley. Gradually the crew were moved up the cliff and the whole party was there. Sure enough the temple was infiltrated without a fight. Several empty rooms were found which showed signs of fighting between Night Goblins and the native Bloodkin, who were then encountered. Whilst they were hostile, they didn't attack so the party skirted round them.

They found the temple to Demeter, part of the Nayerse pantheon and Krysta identified that this room had power, the power that would run the diadem but until the Formorian presence was removed from the temple it would not work. She also felt that another room housed a different, more dangerous kind of power.

The party moved downstairs where they fought Nigh Goblin sentries who raised the alarm! This lead to a massive fight in the ante-chamber where a Formorian Serjeant lead the night goblins. Crewmen Rabukin and Biratopholos came within a whisker of death but Ox shattered the Formorian's skull with his newly purchased war-hammer.

The party fanned out into the dungeons, fighting yet more Night Goblins. These two were cut down as the party moved into what looked like the goblin's barracks. However a swarm of Night goblins attacked from behind, lead by another Formorian Serjeant. This time the party were hard pressed to hold their ground. Biratapholos was cut down by goblins. As more goblins swarmed forward, Draxos tried to hold them back but was swarmed from all sides and fell.

Ox rushed forward to take on this huge foe, warhammer blows smashing into the Formorian's armor. But a deft parry with the war-axe from the Formorian over-balanced Ox and then a wicked swing cut him down in front of the party.

Kylah got even, shooting two arrows into the Formorian serjeant who slumped down dead. The party cleared the dungeon out, finding captured sailors and a badly wounded dwarf who asked to be taken home to Kaz-Bad to be buried. They also found a priestess of Demeter who was also freed. Ocatlain, the brave but reckless warrior was laid to rest in a funeral pyre on the isle of Facelos.

Krysta and Kisyah were both inconsolable, whilst the rest of the party grieved. With the Night Goblins dead, the party decided to take the advice of the priestess, Yatella, and clear out the Blood-Kin shrine. The Blood-Kin had a shrine, a defilement of the previous shrine to Demeter. The Blood-Kin and their shaman fought to defend it and their primitive warclubs caused a few headaches and knocked a few of the party insensible but in the end steel, arrows and magic won the day. As a thanks for cleansing the temple, Yatella gave the party a Ward of Demeter.

Whilst clearing out the Blood-Kin shrine they found the Dark Legion's mark and more evidence that Sebayer, the White-Lady, had been to Facelos.

Episode 12 -The Isle of Depados
The Lucky Wanderer sailed for Depados, the reported island where the Storm-Breaker was. They actually anchored at Bayeron where they encountered Captain Malego and his Sassari pirates. An uneasy truce was agreed and the two parties marched to the former Elven outpost together.

The doorway turned out to be covered in traps! Dart traps and a lethal mono-filament trap were disarmed and the party managed to enter the outpost. However the corridor leading down was protected by elemental magic which Krysta and "Lots" successfully dispel it.

The party also encountered a room that had a glamour on it, causing anyone that spent too long there to fall asleep. Another room was guarded by a magical prism trap which caused stunning magic and, in one case, incinerated one of the pirates.

The final trapped room began to flood and the door began to rumble closed. Kisyah was first to the door, desperately holding it open before Brodhan and then Kemmor took turns keeping the door from closing. Things began to get desperate and Captain Malego and many of his crew fled from the room as it flooded. Finally the group managed to get into the room, where a vast horde of treasure was awaiting, including the fabled Storm-Breaker. Stood at the back of the room were the fearsome forms of three bronze statues, representing three Nayerese demi-gods.

The party rested and were healed but one pirate couldn't help himself and went to pick up the Storm-Breaker causing the three great bronze statues to come to life! The party, sailors, pirates and the core party worked together to fight them with Curradar nearly being killed by a hammer blow. Several pirates fell too before the party brought down the three statues. One was destroyed by "Lots" magic, another by one of Kylah's arrows and the last by Brodhan's hammer.

The party recovered the Storm Breaker, an incredible moment. There was also a mound of gold for the party to share out. The party made its way back to the top of the temple as it began to flood, to be stood off by Captain Malego and his pirates who insisted on the gold being handed over....Kylah and her companions prepared for a fight, even as the temple flooded behind them.

Somewhat surprisingly Daasi, a Sassari pirate who had fought alongside the party since Malega fled, held his ground and fought with the party. Malego and his men went for the traitors, killing Daasi's companion Oremmi but the adventurers were too strong and Malego fell to a long bow arrow from Kylah.

The party emerged into the island of Depados with the Storm-Breaker, only to find that the Lucky Wanderer had been stolen by Isenveil. A note had been left, pinned to a tree, stating that this was revenge from the Red Prince

Episode 13 -Kos Avennos and Kaz Bad
The party moved across country to try to find the Golden Claw which was still at anchor. Thanks for quick movement and Daasi working as a translator, the Sassari pirates were persuaded to surrender. The crew took over the larger pirate ship and began to try to get back to Nayirim and to find the Lucky Wanderer.

However the Golden Claw was intercepted by an Elven frigate which escorted them into port at Kos Avernnos. The party were escorted to a comfortable beach side property and made to await the visit of Duchess Morin Ingloye. She spoke to the party of the elves current view of things and that, at present, the King is not willing to risk the elven army in a futile battle with Balor One-Eye and his Formorians. They'd prefer to wait for Gilead, whom they have had dealings with in the past. Kylah responded with an emotional outburst, accusing the elves of abandoning their children, the Sidhe and the other human tribes.

Later she met the King, Coresayn I who echoed the comments made by the Duchess. The party were not persuaded to leave the Storm-Breaker behind and instead traveled up the coast to visit the Dwarven City of Kaz-Bad.

There they were made to wait by the Trade-Master who eventually allowed them, as nobles, to meet the King of the Dwarves. King Hengir was impressed with the tale of the humans and stated his willingness to intervene with the small but elite Dwarven army but only if it seemed like a victory could be won. He ordered a Captain, Ozgrim, to accompany the party as a military adviser. The party also met with Yori "Young-Axe" who was a cousin to the late Vingard. The King charged the party with returning Vingard's bones to Kaz-Bad

The party added Yori, the eager young dwarf warrior, to the party and headed up to Nayirim. Yori showed a reluctance to be aboard a boat but Ozgrim took it in his stride. The party returned to Nayirim where Krysta and Lots both went back to study with Milodemus. The party learned that Krejac had been gifted the Lucky Wanderer. Ozgrim and Yori went to demand Vingard's bones which were duly returned without a fuss. Demesteros and the other crew were apparently unharmed, though Olobei and Kiruldai were both now in hiding.

After talking to Brodhan, Kemmor and Krysta, Kylah decided not to risk making more enemies and to forgo revenge against the Red Prince. She instead made for the Nayerse court where she allowed Prince Elibar to present the Storm-Breaker which duly impressed the King. Kylah had insisted on a promise from Elibar that he would deliver Nayirim's army and the King agreed to do so when the time was right.

In consultation with Milodemeus, it was decided that a Brettwalda was needed to crown a high-king amongst the southern tribes to unite them ready for a war against the Formorians. To help this process, Kylah decided to look for the Aegis, an ancient set of magical armor that was last seen during the Dream Age in the south. The party prepared for venture out once again into Vothri lands.....

Episode 14 -The Daun Hah Neg
The party chartered the Golden Claw, now proudly owned by Captain Zollo, to take them down to Vorthri lands. On the way there stories were told of the fierceness of the Vorthri and the legnds of Auld King Faerric who had fought in a battle, during the Dream Age, against the Dark Legion.

The party arrived and, based on Ozgrim's advice, spoke to the local Malamatt people, who were the dwindling vassals and subjects of the fierce Vorthri. The Malamatt agreed to help the party and disguised them as members of their own convoy, heading north. The party was able to evade past the Vorthri patrols and learn that Zar Zeshwan has offered a reward if the party is found.

The party reached the swamp, known by its old Sidhe name as the Daun Hah Neg. The party found this dank, mist filled swamp very uninviting and there were many warnings that the swamp was cursed. The party encountered two Vorthri trackers holding an old man as a hostage and both were killed. The old man was freed and he gave information on the dangers of the lightning sands and Old Father Currath. He told them of the Four-Trees Temple, an ancient Sidhe temple that may house useful clues.

The party advanced into the swamp and began to encounter swarms of biting insects until the air was so thick with them the party could barely move. Krysta sensed that dark magic was behind this swarm and the party lit torches to drive the insects back but this just attracted more. The party fanned out to look for the "heart of the swarm" and Kitral found a rotting corpse of a horse, covered in insects which moved with unnatural energy. The party was nearly overrun by the biting swarms, with Kitral, Kylah and Daasi all nearly collapsing with their hundreds of bites before fiery torches and arrows destroyed the heart, which saw the swarms drift apart.

The party rested in a treetop, healing some wounds and recovering but the mood was low among the members of the party. During the night a huge dark form crashed through the swamps but no one could see what had been, apart from utterly huge.

The next day Nadim nearly sank into the lightning sands and ropes and tethers were used as Kitral, Kisyah, Sabra and Chodak risked sinking themselves to rescue him. After this effort, the party could see the Four Trees growing as one and an ancient temple ahead....

Episode 15 -The Four Trees Temple
The party finally arrived at the Four Trees temple, finding it to be less inviting than they had first hoped. Krysa and Chodak attempted to heal the party while Sabra, Curradar and the Twins began to search the temple. They quickly found out that a band of marauder orks were living in the temple. A skirmish broke out and the orks were initially forced back.

When the party followed up though the orks sprung a counter-ambush! Prince Elibar took a blow to the head that left him stunned and three orks swarmed around him. Brodhan, Kemmor and Ozgrim rushed in to fight too but the Prince vanished under a rain of blows. Curradar and Kylah also rushed in, Kylah unleashing a lethal hail of arrows.

As the tide of the fighting turned, the party had come to realize that orks were far more dangerous than goblins, capable of using their brute strength to shatter armor and stun their targets. Elibar, who looked certain to die, managed to fight his way clear and the party had a clear run to the final room within the temple.

A brief rest to heal the party followed. They then made their way into the final room of the temple where a baleful cold made it clear that the "dark presence" haunting the temple was based here. The room's floor crawled with large, deadly insects and a disembodied voice warned the party to stay away. However they pressed on. Three longdead Gauhl's raised out of the floor as more giant centipedes crawled forward. Finally a spectral form took place above them, a wraith of a long dead spirit joined in the fray!

The party battled back against the swarm of centipedes and the gauhls. Sabra took a bite from a centipede and went pale, looking sickly. Krysta warned against the poison in the bites. Meanwhile arrows and swings from axes had no impact on the wraith, which had no physical form at all. Meanwhile its icy cold touch chilled Tinlen to his core. Lots and Krysa both took turns in throwing magical energy at it, all the while as Sabra faded away under the baleful influence of the poison.

Lots took a break from casting against the Wraith to call forward healing energy to save Sabra (and the rest of the party). Then the Wraith was finally cast down, lifting the curse on the temple. A voice, now no longer as dark, spoke of its thanks for the curse being lifted and warned the party not to "trust him".

The party took a rest, searched the temple, finding the orks hidden loot and then prepared to follow up the hill to the Dun Augh.

Episode 16 - Dun Augh
The party marched up the hill and Brodhan wondered out loud what it must have been like to face down the enemies of the Sidhe during the siege here during the Dream Age. Ozgrim was surprised that a wooden hill fort had been able to stand up to the assault.

The party found the way into the old hill fort, finding skeletal remains and another dark presence lying over the place. As they made their way deeper into the barrow, another spectral presence appeared. This time it appeared to be Auld King Faerric. He offered to join with the party and lead "his army" to help them remove the Formorians. All he needed was a vessel, intimating that this would Krysta. Kylah rejected this and the King became angry, unleashing a horde of wights at the party!

A tough melee broke out but this time there was a solid enemy to defeat and the party shattered bones, split skulls and sundered ancient armor, though the frost in the air left many in the party nursing frost bitten fingers.

Another room was uncovered; this time a vast charnel house of skeletons who quickly reanimated as Wights to try and kill the party. Ozgrim, Elibar and Brodhan provided a rear guard and then Curradar and Lots were tasked with keeping the door closed by way of a magical ward.

Advancing on, a corridor dotted with pillars was next. The wights held this too, using the pillars for cover. A wight champion was there too. The pillars limited the effectiveness of Kylah and Nadim's longbows but they still played a key role as the fighters cleared out the corridor.

Finally Auld King Faeric was in view. The ancient demi-liche warned the party not to confront him, stating that the Aegis was now in the hands of the Formorians at the Avan Lorch. King Faeric began to summon a portal and the party decided to attack, despite the horde of Wights summoned to protect their auld King. A pitched battle was fought and two dread Wight Champions strode forward.

The party formed a line and Krysta cast spells to heal the wounds as the party cut down the Wights. A Wight Champion strode forward, pressing the right hand side of the line where Yori and Chodak attempted to hold them off. Chodak used his speed and agility but couldn't match power with the Wight and with a mighty swing of his rusting two-handed sword cut Chodak near in half. King Faeric managed to get finish casting his spell, causing the ancient skeletal remains to collapse to the floor.

After the fighting ended, Tinlen was left grieving the loss of his friend and countryman. The rest of the party also grieved the loss. The party spoke about what route to take next. Brodhan felt that the Dun Augh may make a good place to mount a defence.

Episode 17 -the Chase
With it decided that the party would sneak across the swamps to steal a pair of Vorthri wagons, the scouts snuck ahead to find a route and locate these wagons. A huge Vorthri camp was there, housing some 1,000 warriors and flying the flag of Zar Zeshwan. The party stole two wagons, with Kylah and Krysta taking turns to drive one while Brodhan drove the other.

The escape was observed by Vorthri sentries who instantly gave chase. Vorthri cavalry are some of the most feared in all of Erdath and they showed that their reputation is well deserved. Horse-archers fired wickedly booked arrows at the party whilst warriors tried to leap aboard the wagons. Nadim took up a post to fire his deadly long bow, cutting down riders. Kisyah fired his crossbow too, cutting down riders. Kitral, Sabra and Tinlen all loosed arrows from their short bows while Lots and Krysta threw deadly magic at them.

But the return fire from arrows found its mark too. Nadim was hit early on with an arrow in the side and in the leg. Kisyah, Tinlen and Curradar also took bad wounds, with Kisyah nearly collapsing from blood-loss. Lots and Krysta cast spells to try to heal the wounded. Warriors leaped onto the wagons and those leaping against Curradar found that the mighty forester was too strong; he would knock them clean off the wagon time and again. Ozgrim and Kemmor cut down the others.

On the other wagon, there were fewer powerful fighters and Daasi and Elibar had to fight hard to keep them back. Kitral and Kisyah also fought side by side and back to back, cutting down the Vorthri warriors, who did not want for bravery.

During the pitched fight, Daasi was overrun by Vorthri warriors and cut down where he stood. As more and more warriors tried to jump onboard, including lieutenants of Zeshwan, the party fought harder and harder to keep going. Finally Zeshwan himself leaped onboard but was knocked over the edge by Curradar. As the wagons finally reached Kaz Bad and safety, Elibar noticed that Nadim and slumped against the side of the wagon, having bled out during the chase. Escape had been made but at quite a cost.

Episode 18 -The Return to Kaz Bad
The party arrived back in Kaz Bad where, thanks to Ozgrim's presence, they were able to enter the lower-city. They were welcomed into King Hengri's court and made guests of the King. He confirmed that a Dwarven allied contingent of about 4,000 Dwarves would take part in the war.

The party began recruiting allies to replace those lost in the swamps. Ozgrim recommended former thief Carcyl to the party. Carcyl, now working as a simple leather merchant, initially resisted the attempt but Ozgrim dragooned the man into taking part. Carcyl expressed his fears that the plan would result in a blood bath.

Kitral met a mercenary dwarf called Golvir "Crackjaw". The party met him and despite his apparent indifference to the party, he agreed to join them in return for 5 gold and a share of the spoils. Golvir was a mighty warrior so this was quite the boon for the party.

Next metal worker and berserker Regnar "Blackthorn" was met. Regnar has a life-debt based on some tragedy in his past so is seeking a glorious death in battle. The colorful dwarf agreed to accompany the party, if only to find a worthy end.

Finally engineer and sapper Sabrandt was recruited. This somewhat eccentric dwarf is a friend of Ozgrim and a veteran of other battles. Primarily a structural engineer, Sabrandt agreed to come as a favor to Ozgrim.

The party talked over the plan on how to get to the Avan Lorchl, with a stealthy approach of using the wagons as cover. Carcyl, as an Isheru, could pose as a trader and the party would hide in the wagons which would be modified as much as possible to create hiding spaces for the party. Lots and Krysta worked up a glamor which would befuddle anyone trying to search the wagons.

The long-shot plan was in place. The question was, would it work?

Episode 19 - Avan Lorch
The long wagon journey gave the party a chance to get to know each other and confirmed that Ozgrim and Golvir had some sort of contentious past issue. The two avoided each other at all costs. Krysta, Kylah and Sabra talked of the tryst that had taken place between Elibar and Sabra too.

The party arrived at the village that had sprung up around Avan Lorch. The scouts ventured out, looking to make contact with anyone who could help. Carcyl was still ready to drive the wagons into the Avan Lorch and use his gift of the gab to get through.

Kisyah and Sabra failed to find anything really useful. Kitral made contact with the local Weirgaulter, Ibalan, who confirmed that there were still some Sidhe who wished to resist nearby. He put the party in touch with a poacher called Niharal who offered to join them and lend his archery skills. A servant at the castle, Rycecallia, offered to smuggle the party or some of it, inside and it was debated on what to do.

In the end, Kemmor was to lead Kitral, Kisyah, Sabra and Sabrandt in with Rycecallia whilst the rest would use the wagons to enter the court-yard. The scouts would then search out the Aegis before any fighting was necessary. In order to communicate safely with the Masteri tribe, Curradar was sent north with a message.

The wagons entered without any serious issues but the plan came awry when Rycecallia betrayed the party. A swarm of goblins, lead by two mighty formorians, called on them to surrender. Kemmor refused, his hatred of the Formorians winning out and the five fought a desperate battle. The sounds of fighting alerted the rest of the party and Kylah lead them to the rescue.

A pitched battle broke out in the court-yard as more and more goblins, Sothori warriors and formorians came down to fight. Kylah and Sabra used their long-bows to great effect whilst Regnar and Golvir both showed their strength. The twins fought well but Kitral got over confident. A swarm of goblins descended upon him and looked to bring him down. An axe blow was narrowly deflected and Kitral managed to roll clear as Carcyl, Kisyah and Kemmor came to his aid. However during the peak of the fighting, Carcyl was cut down by a big Sothori warrior.

As the tide of battle turned, Yori rushed forward to bring down the pesky goblin archers. However the mighty Formorian governor, Saw-Tooth, emerged. Yori swung an axe but Saw-Tooth parried it back and then, to the horror of everyone, picked up the brave dwarf and put his right arm clean off his body. Yori was then thrown contemptuously to one side.

Sothori warriors rushed forward and the tide of battle looked dangerous for the party. A huge troll was part of the garrison too and arrows embedded in it but it simply regenerated. Kylah notched up her arrows and Krysta cast forth flaming blasts. Brodhan charged forward, swinging his mighty war hammer. But it was Captain Ozgrim that killed Saw-Tooth, avenging his young protege.

The tide turned for the last time and the formorians and goblins fought on until all hope was lost. Then the last goblins fled and the battle was finally over. The party mourned the loss of Yori "Young-Axe" and Carcyl, who had died to save their friends.

However their death's had not been in vain. During the search of the Avan Lorch, they found the sacred Aegis, the armor of the last High-King

Episode 20 - The Bretwalda
The party marched south and Kylah spoke to Krysta about what to do. Kylah said that she was deciding between nominating Brodhan or Kemmor for High-King. Krysta gave her counsel on these two candidates.

On arrival, Hiran and Esnie, childhood friends of Brodhan and Kylah, intercepted them, warning that the Formorians had come to the town. Kylah rushed in with her party but the Formorian tax collector holding her father at hand. Kylah and Brodhan were ordered to surrender and their father was murdered in front of her. This provoked an uprising and the tax collector and his goblins were cut down.

Volvein crowned Brodhan as the King of the Masteri tribe. King Brodhan now took counsel from Queen-Mother Mihan and Volvein. Kylah rode to the stone-circle at Caeth Varlay. She used to the Diadem to communicate with their allies and summon them. She also spoke to the Elves who, after some baiting from Krysta, agreed to send some support.

There was talk of how they would defeat Balor One-Eye, who had never lost a battle and who had rumored power to destroy an army with just a glance. Volvein suggested using blood magic to call a shamanic demon to defeat him. Krysta spoke of the ancient frost giants, who had aided the Sidhe and the Elves during the dream age. And Brodhan simply said they'd defeat him in the field. But it was "Lots" suggestion that they find the ancient magic spear known as Caliburn to defeat him. This was hidden on an island near Nayirim.

The Bretwalda was called and the tribes began to arrive. Queen Cailis arrived with her grandson and heir, Prince Talueven. She warmly greeted Kylah and Brodhan. The Fyrell arrived, with King Curan MacRoth and his son Donal. Finally the "King" Heirault, a veteran warrior, adventurer and a man of boast and power. He chided the other candidates as too young and too green.

Kemmor was put forward, ahead of Brodhan but Brodhan was very happy to support his friend. So the final candidates before the circle closed were: The talk was of who was most fit to lead, who would follow who. Krysta, now hugely respected by the other weirgaulters, spoke out to support Kemmor. The other weirgaulters followed suite, after Kylah agreed with them that Kemmor would listen to their counsel.
 * King Curan MacRoth of the Fyrell
 * King Heirault
 * Prince Talueven of the Fiorne
 * Kemmor MacHain; grandson of a King

Queen Cailis called her grand son out of contention and this cleared the final obstacle to Kemmor's shock Kingship. He agreed to make King Curan MacRoth the head of his vanguard and to include Heirault as a key-adviser.

With that, there was a high-King and a battle plan. The tribes began marshaling for war, even as Steel-Hand, the Formorian Governor, began to march his army to put down the rebellion. And far away, Balor One-Eye waited.

Episode 21 -The Fork in the Road
Princess Kylah had little time for celebration. She prepared a party to head off to the Sword Islands (near Nayirim) to find the spear Caliburn. She decided she would take the twins, Krysta, Curradar, Sabra, Golvir and Regnar with her. King MacRoth was concerned that the party lacked for strong warriors so asked his son Prince Donal MacRoth to go with them.

Kylah decided that the direct, fast route across the northern road was the best way to approach the journey. The party fought off a group of brigands who had been sent to try and delay them. They made their way north, arriving in Nayirim as the army of Nayirm was preparing to march south. They spoke with the King and both of the Princes. Sabra had an awkward encounter with Prince Elibar.

Queen Janessa, left as Regent, welcomed the party and encouraged them to stay in the Royal Apartments. She offered them the use of one of the Royal Ships to get to the Sword Islands where it was thought the Spear Caliburn would be found. Krysta and Kylah discussed how to communicate back to the others in the tribe-lands

The party set sail for the Sword-Islands, famed for their fierce natives! They arrived after a week at sea at the small, rocky Island of Rayatarr. The party found an opening carved into the very stone and began to work their way down into the depths of the dungeon. As they ventured deeper, they encountered a trap that dropped a huge stone block on them (no one was seriously injured) and then encountered a strange magical warning.

They avoided another set of traps where razor sharp disks were launched at them. The party then fought off a Dagon, an ancient creature whose electrical attacks were dangerous to behold. The party also encountered giant crabs that attempted to cut them apart with their pincers and their heavy shells proved difficult to crack.

The party also found a figure embedded within a crystal. According to Krysta, this figure was somehow still alive.

Finally they found a Crystal Scepter, held in a stone altar. A huge Crystal Statue sprung to life to defend it and swung a giant crystal hammer at the party. With strength and speed, the party were able to overcome the brute and steal the scepter.

Episode 22 -The Battle of Amber Side
High-King Kemmor lead his army to quickly attack the army of Steel-Hand before he had time to marshal his full strength. A skirmish broke out at the river Amber where the Sidhe forces, lead by King Brodhan, fought with Goblins and formorians to try and force a crossing and find a way around the Formorians defenses. The fighting was fierce and bitter but the Sidhe were able to get around the Formorians, giving them a chance to flank their line.

Episode 23 - Kiratoi Island
The adventurers continued in their journey in the Sword-Islands. They wandered through Kiratoi island, encountering the fierce locals in a skirmish. After fighting them off, they were instead invited to a local village where they met Renfava; the priest who asked them to rid the island of the "Sadinko"; an ancient evil.

The party were introduced to two marooned sailors, Axennos from Nayirim and Selan Vautinor, the elf. The two agreed to come with the party. Four young braves lead by Iranhat agreed to come with them too.

They first journeyed north to the hill-fort there where they encountered the strange painted priests and their "Living God". Regnar uncovered that the "Living God" was actually an elf magic user hiding inside a wooden statue!

After a two day journey they reached the volcano where they encountered the strange slaves that work there. As they entered the volcano and its dungeon they fought dozens of lobotomized slaves armed with sharp picks. Striding among them was another huge crystal guardian!

The fight was fierce and bloody. The Crystal Guardian's baleful stare blinded and stunned Donal, Regnar and Golvir. Three of the four young braves fell in the fight. The sailor, Axennos, also died. Niharal tried to bring down the Crystal Guardian but it was too strong and sundered him down with its hammer. Finally the two dwarves; Golvir and Regnar, both fell to its blows. But in the end the party narrowly overcame the enemy.

Shocked and saddened, the party withdrew back to Renfeva's village where Donal recruited more braves and made improvised armor for them. The rest of the party traveled to "Dragoon" Dalprys Furiv, the Living God, into service.

Episode 24 -Back to the Volcano
The party, now strengthened by the addition of the quirky and quarrelsome elf magic user and the new braves, ventured back to the volcano. There they encountered yet more of the slave guardians but without their Crystal Guardian, they were more easily defeated.

The party ventured deeper into the volcano and Dalprys encountered a strange energy crystal which was enchanted with an ancient magic. Lots and Krysta agreed that some sort of ancient and powerful magic was inside the volcano.

As they went deeper and the heat rose, they encountered another wave of Slave Guardians, this time armored with crystal webbing which made them very difficult to kill. The fight was bloody and fierce. A blow from a pick nearly killed Kylah but she managed to come to her senses before the killing blow fell. Another strike knocked Sabra off her feet and she crumpled to the floor. Lohox, the last of the first four braves, fell to blows from the Slaves. But the battle, at a great cost, had been won.

As the smoke cleared, Curradar was relieved to see that Sabra had simply been knocked unconscious rather than killed and she was able to recover.