Einhildur's Journal

[Deraj]

As I find myself pondering my new responsibilities to the company, I thought it wise to begin a journal of my experience, perhaps to serve as some useful record of events in time to come. As of now the company has only recently emerged from a profound series of tragic events. I will not try to describe those events now, for they bear little relevance any longer. The result, however, has brought me here in the place of Deraj, who, deeply affected by the events, has taken a leave of absence to clear his mind and, I pray, his heart. When he shall be prepared to return, I do not know, but until then, I shall serve faithfully in his place.

Several days ago one Paytience Fawn approached me as I studied in Empath Abbey. She seems to be a bright lass, with an admirable lust for adventure. She interested me in accompanying her to a curious location to the south of the Valor shrine in Ilshenar. Once we were geared up, we set out to explore the old place. Standing atop a solitary mountain at the top of a waterfall was a place unlike any I have seen before. I learned much later in my studies that the place is called the Terort Skitas. Upon entering we noticed several oddities. Two books of some apparent importance lay within a sort of meeting area. There were also peculiar crystals that appeared to be deliberately separated, and appeared as such on multiple floor. An abundance of magical ingredients lay undisturbed on one of the higher levels. Also notable were the runes on the ground. I shall inscribe them here.


An old runic symbol for Wis meaning "wisdom" or "knowledge".


This particular rune is what we now know as Ort, meaning "magic". I suspect these runes were being utilized in a form of old runic magic that is not so prevalent anymore, but I cannot be sure. Something tells me there is another rune at work here and I must know what it is before I can form a hypothesis.

When Paytience and I entered into the dungeon beneath the temple, we encountered a terrible infestation of monsters, including elementals, gazers, and the undead. Magical creatures, which cannot be a coincidence. We faced immense resistance and the unshakable sense that something wanted us to turn back. Another visit will be absolutely necessary to discover the secret within.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

Last night saw a most interesting development. We returned to Terort Skitas, this time nine strong. Among our group was myself, Paytience Fawn, Alana Wisperwind, Elerich Fox, Arturos, Zoe, Faeryl Tyr'athem, Celestia, and James Bunny-Man. We explored the depths of the dungeon below, taking note of whatever clue or curiosity we could find. Upon entering the second floor we were confronted by a spirit that told us to leave. It confronted us a second time as we continued through the corridors, and then a third time when we came into a room bearing several important clues. The room had the look of some sort of ritual area, perhaps where sacrifices were made. Atop the altar was the mummified remains of some ancient mage, and a pool of blood below which, to my surprise, had not dried away. Upon the ground nearby a journal was located. I shall transcribe the contents of that journal into this entry.



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Blood-Stained Journal by Belon

The lower levels of the temple are remarkable. There is a strange power which flows through this place, making it perfect as a place of learning and development. The Anskitas built the tower during the days of Mont-Or, but the complex passages running beneath existed long before we arrived here. As this wonderous place is so perfectly suited to our purpose, our work began with ease.

------

It has been some time since I last recorded an entry. Our knowledge of magic has developed considerably over the past few months. At this rate, I believe we may be able to solve the riddle behind the destruction of our once glorious city of Mont-Or. It has been discovered that volcanic activity which led to the city's end may not have been accidental or natural, but rather intended. Our research suggests a dark influence behind it.

------

Several months have passed since my last entry. Our magical knowledge continues to grow, but research into the most vexing mystery has stalled for weeks now. I have failed so far to figure out why. Perhaps our troubles are associated with a sudden, and very unexpected, recent development discovered by my colleagues. Led by the mage-lord Myshkaar, they have found a way to tap into an unexplainably potent source of power. They claim this may lead to the ability to reverse the effects of the volcanic activity - while yet others claim that with this new power, we might move beyond the ruins of our forgotten home. I mistrust the mage-lord, and I mistrust this "new power", but perhaps it will truly lead us to a better place.

------

Some weeks have passed. The temple has become divided - Mage-Lord Myshkaar and his disciples on one side, and those that object to this unexplainable power on the other. The mage-lord has barred the majority of the school from the bottom floor, claiming important and "sensitive" research is being conducted. I find his explanations questionable, but none of us are bold enough to question his authority. As his faction grows, their regard for our old customs diminishes, and he is becoming less like a mage-lord and more like a war-lord. A dramatic change has come over him and his closest companions, something more sinister and strange. I, and the few of us that remain loyal to the old code, have made preparations in the terort, in case something unfortunate occurs.

------

The fools! Overnight and with the ferocity of a snake, the mage-lord has begun a violent overthrow against those of us that have remained true to the search of knowledge. I have activated the sacred barriers in the terort - they shall not sully that place - and I have descended into their dark pit. As I see their now deformed faces, and smell the living dead walking these halls, I am certain now that our work is undone.

------

With invisibility .... travelled downwards .... inner sanctum .... angered .... found third .... should have known .... korp .... mind unravelling .... not sure how long ....

------

*the last page is ripped out. You cannot help but see in your mind the vision of a mad mage violently tearing the page in anguish*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A harrowing tale, to say the least. In this same room we found a third rune in use, which goes a ways in explaining the sinister nature of this place. The rune was what we call "Corp".



Corp is a word of power used to invoke the power of death. A part of what I believe has transpired in these ancient halls is the use of old runic magic. This sort of magic is not as prevalent today, for mages have found more useful ways to channel the ether. In days gone by it was the practice of some mages to use these runes to channel the surrounding ether into the power of the rune. Like a blessing or curse spell, or perhaps like a sort of aura, the rune would emanate a low level of magical power. For practicing mages it was always quite useful to inscribe their place of study with the Wis rune, and their place of practice with the Ort rune. In this way, the runes gradually and subtly ease and enhance the work of the practicing mage.



Just as spells employ certain and specific combinations of words of power to produce a specific effect, so to are the placement of runes designed to produce a specific effect. By itself, a single rune emanates a specific kind of energy. However, when two different runes are emanating energy, the area where these energies combine produce a different kind of effect. The distance between the runes can also play a role, determining the intensity of the effect or the area it covers. The problem with this kind of old runic magic is that often times the effects were difficult to understand or measure, for the power of the runes was small. Left undisturbed in a location for several centuries, on the other hand, and the difference will become quite noticeable. The runes employed in this dungeon are Wis, Ort, and Corp. More research will be necessary to determine what effects this magic may have, other than the very obvious infestation of undead and magical creatures.

We left the room to continue through the corridors, and we came upon a room infested with balrons. Nasty creatures. Within this room was a smaller room which had two Corp runes inscribed in the doorway. When we entered the room I took careful note of its contents. A pit filled with bones. Two rows of chairs and a chained-pole surrounded by rising flames. In all honesty, I cannot even fathom was dark purpose this twisted room held. The presence of these demons, however, troubled me. Although James said that there are demons in many places of Britannia, there was something nevertheless very strange about these demons. Nowhere else in the dungeon did demons wander, and this particular room had none other than balrons.



As we returned to the top of the temple, we were confronted one last time by the troubled spirit haunting these halls. It spoke vaguely and in riddles, but it was determined to compel us to leave, suggesting that the knowledge and secrets of this place may very well lead to our destruction. As for myself, I remain skeptical, for it is very possible that this spirit is an extension of the evil of this place that seeks to hide its sins. I intend to continue my studies.



When we returned to the Salty Dog, I found the two new managers appointed by Judas very peculiar. Arturos and Renna Castile. It is not yet clear to me for what reason Judas selected these two, but they do not seem to have a knack for sensible timing or even awareness of their own bellicose attitudes. Indeed, what started as a simple questioning of talents and abilities turned into a strange argument. Even after attempting to offer calm explanations, I was accused of lying. From our expedition, I could see that Arturos is a friendly lad, but if the two of them cannot learn better timing for matters of business, or understand the natural mistrust that exists of strangers suddenly arriving and claiming authority, then they will not have an easy time at the Emerald Trading Company.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

Recently I participated in a strange game I have never before witnessed called Virtueland. Contestants are required to walk a path by rolls of the dice against other players, occasionally "landing" on certain spots which compel the player to engage in strange acts and "combat" situations against other players where dice are the weapons. It was some sort of .... roleplay fantasy adventure. Most childish, if you ask me. Nevertheless, I felt compelled to participate to ease whatever agitation may have well been put on display. I might have indulged myself in something to drink but strangely the very thought of ale, or any such beverage, repulses me.

I have also grown weary from my never-ending search for information on Terort Skitas. What a fascinating mystery! There is yet little to be found. It seems that the upper sanctum was built around the time the city of Montor was still thriving. When the city met its end, those that chose to live in the temple became known as the Anskitas. From the journal I can guess that some great power was discovered, which corrupted and divided those that lived there. What did they discover? What is the nature of their runic spell? Wis.. Ort... Corp... what does it mean? A few more restless nights and I may find the answer yet.

How the subject occupies my mind and distracts my thoughts! There was an interesting event which occurred after the games. Zoe approached me outside and told me about one Doctor Reinhardt asking very strange questions. His inquiries seemed to touch on ghosts, as I recall. I shall have to speak to this fellow next time we meet.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

Unbelievable! What a fool! A miscreant! How dare he?! How dare that knave walk into this tavern uninvited with his wild claims and veiled omens! Incredible! Yet he is the voice of reason? Am I to believe this?! I see right through his air of authority and reason. A doctor, indeed! The one who calls himself Rilien Reinhardt seeks to take away all of my important research! Yet I am so very close, and he wishes to put away one of the biggest clues we have! Damn him.

His sudden appearance is entirely suspect. I decided to agree to his suggestion of returning the book - this was a lie, of course. There is no way in Hythloth I'll be returning this important artifact. He arrived, so he said, regarding reports of hauntings in Britain. He seemed to know of our ventures into Terort Skitas, and seemed to know that we took something from its depths. The energy possessed in the book, he claims, has caused these seemingly random hauntings. Well I say he is the haunting! Yea verily, it is Reinhardt that is the apparition! Just as the ghost in the temple sought to frighten us away, now he arrives to disrupt my very important work! I will not allow this to happen.

I have acquired the original journal from Paytience, and I have informed the good doctor of our plan to return it. Oh, we'll return it alright - but only its words. A copy shall be placed upon the spot of its discovery, and the original shall remain with me for further study. If Reinhardt remains, then it shall be definite proof that he is a ghost sent to cause havoc. If he leaves, then I shall know he was merely a frightened and misguided paranormal researcher. Either way, he'll be out of my way, and I'll finally be able to return home.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

A brief word with Renna revealed unsettling news. She brought warnings of treachery from the likes Reinhardt. This in itself was not surprising, but what gave me pause was word that Zoe may be warming up to the doctor. I will keep my eye on her. The evil influence of the dungeon is reaching out to more and more of us. I must remain vigilant.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

Paytience sent word that she wished to speak with me. We used a room at the Wayfarer's Inn for she was weary of prying eyes and uninvited ears. She spoke at length of Reinhardt's suspicious behavior, as well as, unfortunately, Zoe's attachment to the man. When we returned to the tavern thereafter, Reinhardt referenced something she had said while inside the room! Indeed, with no doubt that the door to the room remained unmoved, I am nearly completely certain that the doctor is but another ghost sent to antagonize us. What else can explain his ability to spy on our conversation?

I believe I have come close to unlocking the mystery of the runic magic. The runes, Wis, Ort, and Corp emanate a special kind of energy in combination, the effects of which may be playing before our very eyes without us even knowing! Wis, meaning knowledge, was often used by ancient wizards to improve the clarity of their mind. Think of it as similar to improving one's sight by wearing spectacles; a way for the mind to focus on a subject without distracting thoughts, and in some cases, false understandings which can sometimes lead a thinker down an incorrect path.

Ort, meaning magic, held a rather peculiar function in the form of a rune. Magic is simply a way of referring to the ether, a more academic term to describe the energies that wizards have learned to harness. The Ort rune serves as a way of enhancing those energies, by creating a destabilized enhancement field. The movement and flow of the ether is increased, at the expense of the flow outside of the field, which decreases. Just as well, the movement within the field can be chaotic and unexpected, as the movement can generate energy spikes well beyond the ether contained in the field, which is why it is unstable. Of course, in runic magic, this effect is totally harmless, and in modern spellcasting, the effect of invoking 'Ort' is extremely brief. Alas, I am getting far off track by rambling about this magical phenomenon.

Corp, meaning death, is a bit more difficult to explain. One thing for which Corp is used, is concerning spirits. Many people believe that ghosts are simply spirits who lack life, but it is the other way around. Spirits are in fact living beings that possess the quality of death. This is reason for the popular resurrection spell, "An Corp", or.. "Negate Death". The spell removes the quality of death from the spirit, causing it to return to its natural state of life. This is the reason that shades and spirits usually bear some resemblance to their living selves. The Corp rune, in this instance, invokes the very essence of death.

The effect of these runes, I hypothesize, is the appearance of the apparitions. Spirits being ethereal in nature, and thus not visible to the naked eye, are revealed to those effected by the magical effects of the runes. Wis, providing clarity to the mind. Ort, bolstering the effects of the ethereal flow, and Corp, invoking the quality of death. Similar to the modern spell, Wis Quas, or "Knowledge Illusion" translated directly, although a better adaption would be "See Illusion", we can make take the next logical step in understanding the runic magic. Wis Ort Corp, or... "See Magic Death"... magic death being ghosts. This is only a hypothesis. It explains the appearance of the ghost in the dungeon. It would also explain Reinhardt, if he is an apparition, or at least the hauntings he claims to have occurred, assuming he is telling the truth, and assuming that he is not an apparition.

The next time we visit the temple will be a perfect time to test this hypothesis.

I cannot help but grin when I think of what happened in the tavern. The doctor made himself quite a fool! Ha! Arturos and Renna back me completely, and Paytience with her delightfully roguish wit did not fail to enterain. Not a single soul had his back! ...except Zoe, perhaps. After the argument I felt unusually refreshed, as if the burden of sleeplessness was lifted from my weary body. I did not feel the need to sleep at all! In fact I went straight back to my studies.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

After some careful study I have determined the existence of a small trace energy within the blood-stained journal. Removing a small piece of the book's cover, I ground it up in the mortar and placed the ground-up fragment into a special mixture containing one part blood moss, and three parts garlic. The garlic is necessary for its reactive properties to death. Blood moss speeds up the reaction, and makes it more noticeable than it may otherwise be without the reagent. However, blood moss is the key, and getting just the right amount is critical to being able to observe anything at all. Too little, and the reaction will be slow and lack an observable effect. Too much, and the reaction will occur too quickly to even be observed. Therefore, consider my description of the ingredients only an approximation. The mixture was a reddish hue, and darkened slightly when I introduced the ground-up fragment. Placing the mixture upon a heating stand, I lit the candle and watched. Almost immediately the mixture turned a deep black. The flask trembled, but only slightly, and I would not have noticed had I not been observing it very closely. For a brief moment the entire mixture had turned black, but it changed once again, starting from the bottom, its reddish hue returning once again. The ground-up book fragments, which had spread throughout the mixture, rose to the top as the mixture turned red, and then, once the entire mixture had returned to its original hue, the fragments fell to the bottom. The entire reaction itself lasted only slightly longer than a single second.

This proves that a certain energy exists, undeniably, within this object. The properties of the garlic caused the energy within the fragments to react, and judging from the nature of the reaction, I can only surmise that it was the element of death which was being repelled. The fragments floated to the top of the mixture, as the opening of the flask was the only means of exit for the energy, and once it was gone, the mixture regained its normal hue, and the fragments, now cured of their energies, sank to the bottom. However, according to my calculations, the duration of the reaction suggests only a scant amount of energy within the book. Surely such a trace amount could not be responsible for hauntings all over Britain? The evidence for that is hardly compelling, unless... perhaps the book serves as a beacon. The book itself had remained undisturbed next to Corp runes, and under the influence of the Wis Ort Corp runic spell for untold centuries. It is a key to understanding the secrets of Terort Skitas, and perhaps "they" want it back. This, of course, is assuming anything Doctor Reinhardt had to say wasn't rubbish!

Speaking of Reinhardt, I entered the tavern this evening to see if he had progressed in his investigation, and to my complete lack of surprise, he had not! Just to make matters more ludicrous, he mentioned that Zoe had run into an undead monstrosity, and that it had said something to her, but would you believe it - he did not even ask her what it had said! Some investigator! Too busy, no doubt, spending time in the tavern and flirting with the women. Is this all the Lycaaum has to offer? After some time, Zoe arrived at the tavern, but not before stomping off with her bad attitude. I waited patiently to ask that insufferable fool and when I finally had the chance, she brushed me off with a mere shrug! What nerve! She whispered something to Reinhardt at first, and then said simply that she didn't know. She couldn't understand it. Unbelievable! As I turned back to my table, she had the gall to start an argument with me. I must admit, I took some pleasure in putting that wench in her place. She decided to stomp off - again. What a petulant child! I know those two are in cahoots... I am no fool. They are working together to bring my important work to a halt.

We'll see about that.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

When I first came across the crystal I thought nothing of it. It has the appearance of a standard power crystal that one might find in the mechanical workings of a golem or one of the other mechanical monstrosities that can be found in Ilshenar, and to encounter such an object buried away under piles of books in Lakeshire brought no surprise to me. Yet, as I gazed into its pulsing glow, I could not help but feel compelled to take it. Upon further thought, discovering it while chasing a lead on my research may not have been coincidental. As I studied the object I found my suspicions were right - it is indeed connected with Terort Skitas. How do I know this? When I brought the object near to the original blood-stained journal, it began to pulse rapidly. I have not yet determined a means to uncover what energy exists within the crystal. It is connected, somehow, but I do not yet know its purpose. Further study will be absolutely necessary, and I am certain this crystal will also be a powerful tool in my research.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

I received an unexpected visit from Paytience while in the middle of my studies at Bladedancer Hall. She wished to warn me of possible treachery from our enemies, including the doctor, Zoe, and I am sad to say.. Faeryl. She was such a lovely elf, and it is a pity that she has chosen the wrong side. Paytience warned me that it would be a good idea to make another copy of the journal, because there may be plans to steal it. I find this regrettable as making a copy of the journal is no small task. It requires a great deal of effort to copy the handwriting in all its form, to inflict a technique upon the book to make it appear aged, and most importantly, to stain the book with blood in a manner similar to the original. For my purposes, I have used the blood of a rat.

My research, unfortunately, has met an unexpected halt. I seem to have misplaced the strange crystal! This is most frustrating indeed! I believe that object critical to unlocking this mystery. I must find it immediately! As I was studying it further I came to realize that possibly there was more to this object than the emanation of mindless energy. Indeed, as I held the crystal I received the inescapable feeling that I was being watched. Yet, despite trying many of the contemporary methods described by prominent mages and necromancers for communicating with spirits, none have worked... it is almost as if whatever resides in this crystal does not wish to speak with me. This has led me to consider a new path in discovering the mystery of Terort Skitas. The walking dead, the runic magic, the ghostly figure wandering its halls... the secrets remain within the ethereal realm, unseen by the naked eye. When we next venture into the dungeon, I will need to collect whatever artifacts of the past that I can to invoke whatever it is that haunts that place. If I can discover the story, then perhaps I can locate the power that the mages sought. Then, perhaps... I may return home.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

Several days have passed since our expedition back into the depths of Terort Skitas, and I have found myself, since then, unable to keep a quill still enough to write, or even apply the slightest focus for that matter to any form of study. I find myself subject to frequent anxiety and restlessness. When night falls the unwelcome darkness invades my quarters, and in the shadows of the deathly silence of Bladedancer Hall my wildest fears lurk - and the recollection of my encounter with .... the entity..... becomes so painfully real I gasp for air as my paralyzed form struggles for release! It was like nothing I have ever experienced before. Ancient and primeval, it is older perhaps than the land itself. It has no form, nor words with which to speak - even the wraith that ripped through my body was only a single fragment of its complex existence. The intensity of its evil even now sends unspeakable tremors through my entire body.

As I prepared the table in the upper floor of the Terort for the ritual, the group returned with the items I needed. These items were artifacts from within the dungeon - momentos of a time long forgotten, possessing within them the memories of the past. Also discovered, to my complete horror, was the very crystal that I had thought misplaced! It makes sense now, for several days I had found my personal chest was unlocked. I had assumed that I had merely forgotten to lock it but now it seems the horrors of Terort Skitas have, and continue now, to stalk me! I decided to use the momentos for the ritual, and no sooner had I completed did the shadows take form and strike me down. I awoke shortly thereafter to see the company speaking with the entity that had struck me down, and although I could not remember anything between the time I fell and the time I rose, a strangely haunting familiarity struck me as I observed the entity. It attempted to lie and suggest that we return the crystal! But I know better. The ancient mage Belon knew that the crystal was a weapon against the ancient entity, and I know it's the only way to find my way back home.

I tried, to the best of my ability to study the objects of the ritual later on. There were notes with some of the objects. With others, I could merely see in my mind's eye the memory they invoked. I will do my test to transcribe the story of these objects.

A Staff - Fodus - Memory #1
-----------------------------------
Gravlem is such a fool! How many times do I have to explain to him that evil path that is being walked by Orprílem Myshkaar? We screamed at each other until he left swiftly, saying only that Belon needs to forget about Montor and move on. How can we look forward when the same demonic influence that destroyed Montor is now affecting the Anskitas?
-----------------------------------


A Hat - Gravlem - Memory #2
-----------------------------------
How horrible I acted - I cannot even think. I screamed at my best friend with all of my rage to forget his home, to let it go, that it was gone, that his family was dead and nothing was going to change that now, except perhaps for Orprílem Myshkaar's research. As I left I told him that Belon was wasting our time, just as he was wasting his time with that crystal, and I noticed Myshkaar standing nearby when I walked away. I feel awful about letting out that bit of information, and yelling at my best friend. I wish I could go back.
-----------------------------------


An Apron - Xellem - Memory #3
-----------------------------------
It's all coming apart! At the request of my love Belon, I gathered Harm and Formanu to assist me in setting up the Terort's defense to keep the evil contained within the lower levels. But as we were finishing our preparations, two of Orprílem Myshkaar's allies appeared, and attempted to stop us. We killed one of them, but the other got away! If he tells the others, our plan will be undone! I am so sorry dearest Belon!
-----------------------------------


A Rose - Delsa - Memory #4
-----------------------------------
*sobbing*
I don't know what you mean, Orprílem! I don't know! Please! Why can we not end this feud and become one again? Belon is only concerned... *sigh*
Orprílem, please promise you will keep this to yourself, and not let it spiral out of control? Belon found a strange crystal that seems connected to the place... he says that it will end the evil influence that has taken over the Terort... please ke- Orprílem! Come back! Come back! *the shade looks to the rose upon a table*
Where did we go so wrong? What happened to the dream of Montor's beautiful hills and gentle streams? I miss it so much...
-----------------------------------

A Glove - Venwis - Memory #5
-----------------------------------
We rushed to Delsa's quarters when we heard the commotion, Stefanie and I, and saw Myshkaar walking away. That fiend! How dare he, after all that he has done? I was giving him a piece of my mind when one of his minions came up, talking of treachery - a chill ran down my spine as he recounted Xellem, Harm and Formanu striking down his partner. Myshkaar became furious! Ordered us all, including Belon, to be arrested at once! The plan had been disrupted early but I wasn't goin to let this opportunity go... I attacked Myshkaar and killed the bastard where he stood! Well actually, he killed me, but I saw him die to Delsa's hand when she came running out. Bless her. As my vision faded to black I could hear more of the Orprílem's minions coming...
-----------------------------------

A Cloak - Harm - Memory #6
-----------------------------------
Where could he be? Oh, where could he be?? Myshkaar's other minion went running off to tell the others of our plan, and we cannot find him! He must have gotten away! Now everyone knows. The plan is ruined! The evil of this place will destroy us all! When Xellem, Formanu and I arrived at the lower floor, we knew it was over. There was only one thing left to do. Fight.
-----------------------------------

A Spellbook - Stefanie - Memory #7
-----------------------------------
When Myshkaar fell, I watched as a spellbook with the image of a skull on its cover slipped from his grasp. I could only imagine the worst possible fate awaiting us in death at the hands of these twisted necromancers. As more of our enemies came to fight, I kneeled down to the bodies of Myshkaar and Venwis, and set in motion a spell that would destroy their bodies irreparably. As the number of our opponents grew, I knew Delsa and I wouldn't stand a chance, so I set the spell in motion on myself... and Delsa, and anyone else that I could. The last thing I saw was Delsa fighting valiantly. I wonder if that was the right thing to do.
-----------------------------------

A Pendant - Formanu - Memory #8
-----------------------------------
Bruised and bleeding, I left the bodies of Harm and Xellem behind as I forced my way into the inner sanctum of Orprílem Myshkaar's circle. I couldn't believe what I saw... Myshkaar's allies... and the undead... fighting each other. It was just as Belon predicted... the evil of the place is destroying us all... I must rejoin my brothers and sisters at long last... the Anskitas must be one again... we must fight the evil...

...where is Belon?
-----------------------------------

This is the story of the last living days of Terort Skitas. The only story I am missing now, is of Belon.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

*the writing on this page is erratic and in some cases illegible*

The crystal! The crystal is the key, but to what door? How did I happen to come across it? Why did the entity take it away, only for it to be returned?? What does it do? How does it work? Why wouldn't it speak to me??? There is nothing... NOTHING... written about it! No records! No mention however brief buried away in heavy, forgotten tomes! As if it didn't exist! As if nobody ever knew about it! The answer is lost and I am at a dead end, both figuratively and literally! I know not how long this frail old form can endure the illness that has been poisoning it ever since I first walked into that cursed dungeon... There is little time left, I must not fail!

Sleep has become most difficult, I find... even when I am fortunate enough to fall into a slumber, upon waking I am as tired as I did when my eyes shut prior - there is no rest with this evil poisoning my soul. The dark halls of Terort Skitas call out to me, beckoning to me, its dreadful whispers filling me with promises of home... but I know it's a lie. Only the crystal can take me back; only the crystal can return to me what was lost! And so I sit, surviving on little sustenance, remaining close to the Terort... the answer will reveal itself to me soon... I am certain of it.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

My so-called friends found me during my search for answers in Ilshenar. The stench of betrayal in their presence, they made their treachery known and refused to return my crystal, accusing me of "obsession" and something about my dear, deceased wife - the nerve! Incredible! And just as I thought their behavior could not be any more unbearable, Paytience... yes, Paytience!... admits to stealing the crystal from me, and allowing me to believe it was the entity that had done it! And all those times I found my chest unlocked and thought it was due to my own forgetfulness, I am certain that was her as well - searching through my belongings to pursue whatever ulterior motive drives her. I should have known better than to trust that rogue! Without honor, deceitful, knave! Then that insufferable Renna threatened to destroy the crystal - to destroy everything I have worked for! They forced me to give up my search and return, and I reluctantly complied.

They do not understand, they simply do not understand! When I woke up today in my bed, I immediately mixed a potion to calm my declining health, but as I was preparing to return to studying, I realized that there was nothing left to study! The answer would not be found in the book of any scholar of this land. I would have to discover it myself. What is the nature of the crystal? It seems to retain memories of the past, but how it has come to hold these memories, and how, remains a mystery. The crystal also seems to attract a malevolent spirit - is this the same spirit we came across in the temple? And how is this crystal connected to the entity from Terort Skitas?

Einhildur

[Deraj]

An interesting conversation with the doctor. He brought along several old journal fragments from the traitorous mage-lord Myshkaar detailing his search for Belon and his group after the destruction of Montor. I shall post the contents of these fragments later, when I have more energy. There were a few interesting items of note. The first is a spell that Myshkaar found on a lich in the Pass of Karnaugh, "Ex Corp". Rilien and I believe it is connected to the crystal but are unsure in what way. The second item of note is a description of images that Myshkaar observed that I believe tell, in a brief and crude way, the story of the entity that dwells in the depths of Terort Skitas, as well as describing its name, "Brood". Our belief is that this is the identity of the dark spirit that has haunted Renna as she has possessed the crystal.

Rilien seems to share my interest in defeating Brood, but I cannot yet offer my full trust to him nor anyone else in the company. Especially Paytience. I spoke to Kil'jaeden before I visited the Salty Dog. He is most unsavory character, but his thirst for knowledge is admirable. I convinced him to assist me in retrieving the crystal, and if he plays his part I may yet see it again. No one, living or dead, will prevent me from going home.

Einhildur

[Deraj]

The contents of the discovered journal fragments and notes are inscribed here:

*a scorched journal*
-----------------------------------
What a travesty! Despite our best efforts, our readings were off by weeks, and the eruption of the volcano caught us earlier than we had thought. The evacuation of Mont'Or had only just begun, and now people are scrambling to leave. What madness! The mages of Mont-Or have done their best to quell the restless waves of lava that rumble beneath our feet, but our magic is too limited - we must seek a higher understanding if we are ever to secure a home in these lands.

I have sent the rest of the Anskitas ahead, with Belon in charge. He has taken the loss of his home very hard, which is why I think it best that he leaves here as soon as possible, as well as starting his new work at Terort Skitas. I have sent word to him at his home in the southwest quarter.

-Myshkaar
-----------------------------------


Letter to Belon
-----------------------------------
Belon,
Given this sudden and unexpected turn of events, I am placing you in charge of organizing the Anskitas effort to evacuate the city. The majority of the refugees must take the western pass, I have placed Xellum in charge of overseeing the southern pass. With you shall be many refugees as well as the core of the Anskitas. I know you have not been to Terort Skitas before. Your first stop shall be the Pass of Karnaugh. Once you have arrived, make camp and send word to me of your progress.
Yours, in virtue,
Myshkaar
-----------------------------------


*a torn journal page*
-----------------------------------
As the destruction of Mont-Or was not enough, fate has determined to compound our misfortune! Hearing no repot from Belon at the Pass of Karnaugh, I set forth to that very location to ensure the safety of my people. When I arrived I found that the stronghold that had once served as a safe passage through the mountains when I last saw it had become a labyrinth filled with all kinds of monstrosities. A few traces of evidence revealed the arrival of people; I can only guess that it was Belon and his group. I attempted to explore the Pass with my party, finding only more horrors and destruction. However, I did find one curious object. From the ragged robes of a fallen lich I found an old scroll describing a practice of magic I had not seen before. Upon the crumbling parchment I beheld the image of a kind of magical device, a crystal of some sort, and the words "EX CORP". I understand the words, but the meaning is currently beyond me. Further research will be required. I can only guess that Belon took his party south, to cross Pormir Priin. I will proceed to the Citadel to see if anyone there has observed them passing by. Hopefully I will find them in good spirits.
-Myshkaar
-----------------------------------


*old journal fragment*
-----------------------------------
What a remarkable place... I had heard of Reg Volom but I had never visited this place before. The fortress is more ancient than my own civilization. On a whim, I decided to lead my party into the fortress to explore. Within the catacombs I found what I believe to be the crystal referenced in the previous scrolls. The crystal seemed to pulse when I took it. Near to the crystal was yet another scroll, upon which was inscribed several illustrations and very few words, perhaps written as such in an attempt to inform those unfamiliar with their ancient language.

The first illustration crudely depicts a figure prostrated before a group of figures. In the second illustration the figure is shown fastened to the ground with either ropes or chains. The group of figures is depicted smaller, as if far away. The third image illustrates the figure now half buried into the ground. In the fourth image, the figure has become fully buried. In the fifth image, the figure is now far under the ground, but several layers above him are many other figures. Each subsequent illustration depicts the same figure becoming further submerged underground, adding another row of figures above the next. The final image depicts a building built upon the surface, and underneath are rows upon rows of figures, and at the very bottom, the original solitary figure. Beneath this last image is the word "BROOD". The scroll sitting aside this crystal cannot be coincidence.

Nevertheless, this scroll along with the others has given me enough information to pursue my research with this new kind of magic. I don't know who, or what, this ominous "Brood" is, but given the eerie nature of this place, I would say it is worth a great deal of caution. This new kind of magic seems to employ a means by which the words of power are channeled by a magician, allowing him to affect the ether with his own will. Up until now, our understanding was limited in mere folklore, and hocus pocus nonsense from those more interested in selling nonsense. Our academics had come to understand the use of runes, and channeling the ether through these focal points, but the effects are limited and often times unpredictable. The very idea of casting the ether with one's own mind seems radical, but the very idea could revolutionize our understanding of magic. I am most certain Belon will find this research fascinating... Oh! I confess I had completely forgotten about my hurried quest to find him! I shall proceed to the final outpost on the outskirts, a small citadel to the southeast of the cave.
-Myshkaar
-----------------------------------

[Deraj]

I remember like it was yesterday. Yew never had a proper tavern, even in the old days. Back then the residents of Yew would gather from time to time to drink in celebration of this or that at the winery, with wine generously given by Empath Abbey. As the days became shorter we gathered for an Autumn festival. I drank with my friends and had a merry old time, but when I danced in the carol, who should take my hand, but dear Astrid? I remember it like it was yesterday. Emerald eyes as deep as the forests. Her charming smile and laughter like music. Why do these ancient thoughts return from through the mists of time with such striking familiarity? When I took her hand I felt the unmistakable sensation that I had taken the hand of fate, setting in motion a chain of events from which one would never wish to escape that was as natural and beautiful as if orchestrated by divine providence. I remember taking every effort to savor every moment; to burn every detail irrevocably upon my mind so that I would never forget the night I met the other half of my soul.

When the festival ended we stole away into the woods, dashing through moonlit trees as the chilly air hit our faces, and found a clearing where we gazed at the starry sky. It was there that we would, years later, build our home, the very home I abandoned so long ago...

In my dreams I see our old cabin in the clearing in the darkness of night. A single light burns within. The cabin seems cold and empty yet I can sense a presence within... it must be her! Yet I cannot approach the cabin; it remains in the deep, dark woods forever out of my reach, as I run without end down an old forest road.

-Einhildur