Journal of Kobal Bluntaxe

[Harlas Ravelkione]

Where do I start. First of all, I write these notes for one reason only. The reason is that I believe that I am in danger. Should anything happen to me, these notes might point to one or more, who might be behind it... unless I stumble upon a rock and brake my neck.

I have lived in these parts of Mistone for some time now, and I must say that I think of it as home. I share a house in Fort Llast with my dear friend Hargranar Craggenhilt, and I have made many friends in these parts of the lands. So... one might say that I am quite content.


Instead of telling you more of who I am and what I have become, I will cut straight to the point. The main reason for me getting into trouble, and why I have made a few, but powerful enemies is that I have taken it upon me to work actively against those, who commit crimes in this world, but stay untouched by the authorities. I am not talking about a burglar or common thief, earning a few coins here and there. No. I am talking about evil! Evil is not a crime in itself. There are no texts on how to punish evil itself. Evil is not a thing to be judged. Evil is too many things. Too many things that common laws cannot deal with. Still... they must be addressed.

In my experience the law stops at the town or city gate. What happens outside the borders of civilation does not concern those, who are protected by it. Even though a great many people have both power and the means to act on it, they do nothing. I have come to regard indifference as the greatest evil of all. True indifference, regardless of subject or situation, is the root of it. Therefore I strive to end indifference, where I encounter it. Having made that promise, I have discovered that it proves increasingly dificult to accomplish anything, as long as the law is involved. It is through bitter experience that I have some to understand that the law does not always protect the victim and judge the villain.

... I remember that night. It was very chilly, so I moved quickly throught the streets of my hometown, and took a shortcut through an alley that I would normally have avoided. I heard the scream, I her body lying on the pavement, I saw his shape in the darkness, I drew my knife, I cut him down. That deed cost me 20 years of my life. It is a lesson I will not ever forget. When I discovered that he was the son of a noble I knew what was to come. Had he been a cutpurse, nothing would have come from it. Still... I did what I had to do, and I regret nothing. In the beginning I did. I thought I might have been wrong in killing this man, without trial. But today I understand that when I killed this man I followed my heart. When I regretted it, it did not come from my heart, but from my mind.

My years of travel have tought me that there is great potential is man. Unfortunately the potential is twin-edged. Men are capable of becoming great, and they are capable of deeds that are so utterly dark and twisted that one recoils when hearing tales of them. Many of the latter kind are brought to justice for their crimes, but there are many who are not. Some work where the laws can or will not go, and some know how to avoid the law or hide from it. It is those that I hunt.

My experience has taught me that I cannot move a mountain in one day. I must start with pebbles...

[Harlas Ravelkione]

I have formed a group. The idea has been on my mind for some time already, but I was not sure if there were others with the same feelings and opinions as myself. It seems I was wrong. Somethings cannot be tolerated, and I have discovered that many share my views in this – especially when it comes to necromancy and experiments on the natural cycle of life and death.

Our group is quite strong, consisting of people I know and respect. For now we will stay hidden, gathering information on subjects of importance to us and our goal. Only time will tell if we manage to find a way to completely banish the darkness from our homelands. I agree, the task seems beyond us, but if we don’t try we have failed already.

I will start looking for a place to meet. Some place we can use as refuge and headquarter.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

The circle has had its first meeting. There were matters at hand that had to be addressed. Since I feared for my own safety, and the safety of the group, I chose a place that imagined to as safe as any - the hall near the temple of Vorax in the halls of the Ulgrid dwarfs.

We were all there, with the exception of our newest member, one who I believe will add both strength and resolve to our circle. Second to that he claims to have an informant in the ranks of a cult of Corathanians... Corathians... it matters not what they call themselves. Just know that they are people who are best dealt with through means of action, and not conversation. I talked to him about this group, and as I mentioned the name of Rufus Coldfinger, he recognized the first name. Rufus. Is this coincidence - most certainly not. It fits too perfectly that a necromancer like him would associate with such a cult, be a member, or maybe even lead them. I need definate proof though.

The main reason for me calling the circle to this meeting was another matter. I have been given a task by King Waylend of Pranzis. He has trusted me to hold a ring. Drezneb's ring.
This ring was one of three items that were held by the former king Shalic Layour, items that would make him capable of ruling all the lands of Layonara, and so would have be items of incredible power. The three items were a ring, a necklace and a cloak. Fortunately Shalic Layour was betrayed by his closest advisor, who pushed him into the rift as he was performing a ritual - maybe the ritual that would make him rule all. The cloak was lost in the Rift with him, while the ring and the necklace were hidden on the most dangerous places of that time.
These 3 items were lost for centuries, but now Drezneb has risen as one of the generals of Sinthar Bloodstone, and he is sending out his undead minions in search of these items. The cloak must be his already, since Drezneb has made the Great Rift his throne. He now only seeking the ring and the necklace. King Waylend sent out a call for adventurers, who would try to prevent Drezneb from getting his hands on the remaining items. We were a strong group as we set out from Pranzis in search of information on the location of the ring and necklace, which showed to be a dificult task since the world has changed since the days of Shalic Layour. The lands moved in the time of the cataclysm, so the world of that time was another than the world we know today.
We searched for information on dangerous dungeons and other places of the times before the cataclysm, with little luck. Then we decided to follow the undead legions of Drezneb, which led us close to the Rift itself. There, running out of time, Rufus Coldfinger suggested to call upon the spirit of Dreznebs advisor, who pushed from the cliff, but was struck by lightning and killed right afterwards. Of course I spoke against it, but there were too many in the group who would choose the easy way, which - as in most situations - was the wrong one. The goal does not sactify the means, but no one would listen.
So Rufus set off to the Rift, while the rest of us searched the area for more of Drezneb's undead. We had little luck in this, and so it was Rufus who returned with information of the whereabout of the ring that lead the way to a small stream... and a waterfall surrounded by undead. We put the undead to rest and discovered a passage beneath the water. All of us managed to dive through a narrow passage and ended up in a cave, in what must once had been a volcano. There we discovered passages leading us ever deeper underground. After countless battles and sneaking along dark passageways for hours without end we arrived in a huge cave, which held creatures of stone and earth, seemingly indifferent to our weapons as we fought, and fought. Somehow we prevailed, and as others searched for a way that would bring us even deeper, I discovered a golden ring, set with a ruby, inside the mightiest of these creatures.
As I told the others of my discovery, some of the people started to make demands on the ring. I told them to stop arguing, so we might leave before more undead arrived. Most listened to me, while Rufus continously told me to hand over the ring. I told him he would have to kill me to get it, and he started to threaten me. He told me I would squeal before the end, and I almost attacked him. Instead of that I turned and ran, and others followed. There was more arguing on the road to Pranzis, but I kept my mouth shut, until we finally arrived at the king's catle.
It was late in the night as we arrived in the castle district and asked to see the king. Still, we were led into his hall immediately, and king Waylend arrived shortly afterwards. We told him we had managed to get to the ring before Drezneb's minions, and I walked forward and showed it to him. It was then that Finwe - the kings mage - walked forward to make claim on the ring. Earlier Finwe had been taken by soldiers of Drezneb, been interogated, and left near death. We found him in time, but still... I just could not shake off the feeling that he might be under the influence of our enemy. Therefore I advised the king not to give the ring to Finwe. I told him I would give the ring to the king in person, but I would rather not hand it over to Finwe. People in our group started arguing again: Who I was to argue with the king? I asked the king if I might talk to him privately, and he agreed.
As I spoke to king Waylend, I told him of the circle I have formed, and of my distrust of some members in our party. Somehow I convinced him that leaving the ring with me would be safer for the time being - don't ask me why he did it, but he did. Before going back to the others I asked him to take one of my own rings as a decoy, so that especially Rufus Coldfinger would not suspect me carrying it. My own ring was a silver ring, set with a ruby, and therefore very much alike the other ring. We did the exchange for everyone to see, and I think everyone took the bait. *there is some scribbling here that has been overwritten a few times, as if Kobal changed his mind* Maybe Remiel knew, somehow. But he did not interfere...

I have informed the circle that I have the ring, and that I am in danger. Drezneb will be searching still, and there might be others as well...

Celgar talked about a lich - an undead mage of some kind, if that is even possible - taking souls around the village of Hlint. We all agreed to look further into this matter...

[Harlas Ravelkione]

My mind was wandering today. As I was gathering thistle leaves for a few potions, I could not help it but to wonder how a cult of people who worship death and hatred, indulge in murder and spin lies can be allowed to exist in these lands. Why are they not hunted down and destroyed? I have received information of potential members or contacts of the cult, so wouldn’t the representatives of the law know as much, if not more, than I?
I cannot but doubt those who claim to uphold the law. They claim to be protectors of the weak – but now drow walk the streets in brought daylight, slaying innocents as they pass! I cannot but doubt their words. They speak of action, but the outcome is always the same.

Like the trial on Rufus Coldfinger. I was there when Quintayne openly declared the charges against him. *the writing changes here, as if the writer experienced a change of emotion* A massacre… in Dalanthar… so many innocents wiped out by the hand of a mage – a hand wielding power too great to even comprehend. No witnesses, none alive at least. No one would have known, if not Ozymandias had stumbled upon Rufus in or right outside of Dalanthar. It seems that Rufus must have thought that Ozy had seen it all. Fact is that he confessed his deed to Ozy. At least that is what the bard told us that day in the castle, right outside the hall of the king. And what reason would Ozy have to lie? It seems that Ozy told Quintayne, a priest of Rofirein, of Rufus’ confession. Quintayne arrested Rufus, and told him not to leave Pranzis. Rufus proclaimed his innocence, but I find that hard to believe – even though I don’t know anything for sure. Would a man like him, a necromancer, shy from such a deed? I think not. I have seen what he can do to his enemies…

As we walked from the castle, Ozy walked beside us and said a strange thing. He told us he had given Rufus advice on his defence, should he be put on trial. It seems Ozy cared little about what came from the trial, and what became of Rufus Coldfinger. Then why did he tell Quintayne? There is no doubt in me that Ozy will stand on our side against Sinthar Bloodstone, when the day arrives. Against him he is one of the best weapons on our side. He knows more about the world, and what is going on, than anyone I have ever met. Still… I am not certain that I dare trust him completely.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Rufus walks freely again. Either he was innocent or he managed to convince the judge of his innocence. There might have been little actual proof against him. I don’t know what to think…

[Harlas Ravelkione]

Rofirein. I have sworn an oath to the Lord Protector – an oath I will not brake. Earlier I called Kithairien my patron. Patron. I did not really put much into the word. I said a prayer before going hunting, and I gave thanks to the Runner if my snares caught a rabbit or two. But did I put any meaning into these words? I think not. They were more like part of my daily routine, a thing you do like brushing dirt of your clothes before entering your home.
These past months I have looked into the doctrines of Rofirein, and I must say that I find much of what I have discovered to my liking. The only subject that I find hard to agree with is the Lord’s strict views on the law. He seems to regard things in black and white only – as if he is, or chooses to be, blind to any circumstance that might justify disregard of the law. For the Lord there is no such circumstance – the law must be upheld above all else. … I am not sure that I will able to comply with this. I will make an effort to do so, but there are times and situations – shades of grey – where law might leave me no choice but to brake it.
I have sworn the oath, and now that I have studied the ideas of the Lord Protector, I have come to value them. I will do what is in my power to uphold his principals and live by his guidance. That I promise.

What caused my sudden urge to choose the Lord Protector as my patron? Let me just say that I have much to atone for. All those men and women in that monastery, doing nothing but their duty to their Lord… and we carved our way through their ranks with steel and magic, to steal what guarded eternally. Such commitment to duty! I cannot put into words the admiration I have for these people. Still. There was no other way – at least none we were aware of. We had to stop the dark angel from gathering in power, and therefore needed the relic. I am aware of that the monks in their hold knew of our coming. It seems they had known all along that someday someone would come and free them of their duty. But not like this. I tried to talk them into surrendering, screamed at them as they attacked us. To no avail. They had sworn to protect and defend, and so they did.
I swear that I will atone for what we did that day, for the lives we took. How? I do not yet know, but I trust in the Lord Protector be my guide in this.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

Ozymandias told me about the rise of a new god. If it is an old prophecy or information he got from a source I do not know. He believed that Bloodstone was working actively to make the rise of this new deity a reality, which was in itself a disturbing thought. Adding to that was the mentioning of the statues at Bone Hill, a strange and mysterious place. Statues of all the gods are arrayed here, while on top of the hill, overlooking them all, there is the statue of an enormous snake. I have seen this place myself, and I wondered at the meaning of it, which eluded me at that time. Ozy was mentioning that statue in connection with this new deity… a snake god, the viper. If Bloodstone succeeds in enlisting this god to his cause, we are surely pressed. This must not come to pass. I must search for more information on this matter. I will talk to members of the Circle about this.

* There are a few notes made in the days and weeks afterwards. None of them have any relevance to the matter described above. Then, about a month later…*
________________________________________________________________________________________________

Hargranar and I travelled to Leilon to heed a call for adventurers from the Mistone Alliance. We arrived to meet a handful of other people who had come for the same reasons as we. Together we entered an estate, guarded by two Mistone Alliance guards. Harg mentioned something about an elf living in this estate some months ago, but I paid little attention to it. The place was buzzing with activity. There were maps on table everywhere, notes were received and new ones handed to messengers who hastily left afterwards. It felt good to see the Alliance at work – to see so many working together for the common good.
A captain of the Alliance gave us the assignment to search for an item called the Horn of Storms. The Alliance was planning to use the horn as means to remove the cloud covering the emerging fleet of Sinthar Bloodstone, and in that way get an impression of the forces set against them and us. The Alliance had discovered the Horns location to be on Xantril, and the captain himself would lead us there. Before leaving I pointed out that there were members among our group that might not be trustworthy, and I asked how they could entrust an assignment like this to an untested group like ours. The captain answered that the Alliance had their hands full, so they would simply have to trust us in this.
We sailed to Arabel. From there we took a boat that would take us to a shore close to Fort Mitrix, so we might travel there on foot. We encountered little resistance on the way there, and arrived safely at the Fort. The captain gave us directions to a nearby dungeon, and we left, leaving the captain at the Fort.
We arrived shortly afterwards at a cave-opening, guarded by an incredible large blue snake. We managed to drive it off and entered. Immediately after having set our feet inside this enormous tunnel complex, we had to fight our way forward. We were constantly attacked by huge snakes and even by horrible, magic-wielding women, growing living snakes on their heads instead of hair. We fought our way through many dark and hostile chambers and tunnels, until we arrived at a vast chamber, deeply underground. At an altar in the middle of the chamber was an armoured figure kneeling as if in prayer. The group approached the man, a few words were spoken, and the man attacked us for breaching his or his master’s domain. The fight was hard but soon over, because of our overwhelming numbers. On the body of the man I discovered a sealed golden box – just as the Alliance captain had described to us. Since there was no lock or any sign of an opening mechanism I left the box untouched in fear of destroying the Horn inside.
We travelled at great speed, and soon afterwards we arrived at Fort Mitrix where the captain was awaiting our return. I handed to box to the captain, and he asked us to step back in case the box was trapped. So we did… far enough to be unable to reach to him, as he conjured magical barriers around himself and changed in appearance from captain to a black clad wizard. We tried to brake the barrier, as the villain opened the box and removed from it a skin with intricate symbols on it. The man started chanting, and as he did so lights formed above him, as the symbols on the skin faltered. As the last symbol left the skin there was a flash, and the lights previously hovering above the wizard were now clearly visible on the night sky. A new god had emerged – the constellation of the viper.

Every single time I wander the lands after dark, I cannot help but feel this constellation burning in my mind. I do not even need to look to see them all too clearly… what have I done? I should have anticipated it, I should have known.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

By the gods! I had almost lost my life today as I was travelling through the battle fens on my way to Port Hampshire. Suddenly an arrow hit me from behind. My armour took most of it, but still it hurt like hell. I drew my weapon and turned, just in time to see a person melt into the shadows not far behind. Needless to say I charged, but there was no one to be seen as I arrived on the spot, and there were no tracks. Instead another arrow hit me, but bounced of my breastplate. This time the stalker was closer and I almost go to him before he vanished again, right in front of my eyes. The same scenario took place again 2 or 3 times. Meanwhile I had taken more than one hit, and I was starting to feel weak from the loss of blood, so I decided to run for it. I got almost the gates of Port Hampshire before I was set upon again… this time I managed to get close enough to strike at the assailant, and he took a hit to the chest. In that instant I saw a patch of black skin and white hair underneath the hood of my attacker, and I knew he was a drow. Before I could get any closer he faded back to the shadows, and I escaped through the gates of Port Hampshire, and into safety. At least I thought I was safe behind the walls of the city. Only minutes later, walking along the merchant square, I heard the snap from a bowstring - just in time to dodge the missile. Again the attacker faded back into the shadows, and again I ran for it, in the direction of the crafter’s district. There I almost ran into Harg and Ozy, who were chatting merrily – until they saw me coming, and in the same instant Ozy took an arrow into his chest. Harg turned and charged. I followed his example and together – with a little help from Vorax – we managed to corner the drow assassin and put it out of his misery. We searched the assassin for clues, but found nothing of importance. Most notable of his belongings was a symbol that showed a gloved hand or gauntlet. ________________________________________________________________________________________________
  It was in the outskirts of the forest of mists that I came upon the lifeless body of Buppi Fallenleaf. Quickly I prepared myself for the giant attack I thought would have to come any moment… instead silence surrounded me, and I had a bad feeling in my stomach. I was just going to lower my guard, when 2 arrows struck me from the shadow of a cliff. Both arrows found their mark, and I felt blood spilling from wounds in my leg and back. In rage I charged forward into the darkness of the cliff-side, but no attacker was to be found. *snap* Again I was struck into my back by an arrow, while another bounced of my shield. I turned in time to see 2 hooded men fade into shadows that were not even to be seen. *snap* Again I was struck, but this time something happened – my steps became slower, and my arms felt increasingly heavier. In the span of merely moments could not move any longer, and darkness overcame me. *petrified* I woke up lying in the grass, feeling weak from loss of blood and with a burning ache coming from my neck. Slowly I rose to me feet and looked around. I noticed that Buppi had started moving as well. Suddenly two drow faded into view, then were gone again. I picked my axe up from the ground, but felt less than ready to fight two drow. The drow started talking Buppi and me, as we moved closer to guard each other. They said many things to us, fading in and out of the shadows – in brought daylight – some of which I will mention here. The drow told us that we had been marked by a tattoo of the spider. The tattoo somehow holds a lethal poison that can be released by the drow, should we interfere with their plans. And they have big plans. The drow have united. All houses have united for a common cause – they will seize the lands surrounding the sea of sand on Mistone. I believe they were referring to the Blood Desert when mentioning the sea of sand. That means the drow will try to take over villages, towns and cities surrounding the desert. Some of those will probably be Spellguard, Port Hampshire and Haven, maybe even Hlint and Fort Hope. I believe the spider queen has managed to unite the houses, backed up by her champion Navarre. Navarre… hard to believe that he was once a champion of Toran. Every bearer of the spider tattoo resisting the drow, will die instantly by the poison. At least that is what the drow told me and Buppi that day. The attack would start when the sky turns black. Buppi was visibly shaken by the incident. She told me that all her people bear tattoos. The tattoos mark them as who they are, and they change as their personality changes. Buppi was convinced that the spider tattoo would change her forever. I tried to make her calm down, but the fact that the drow called her “dark mistress” did not make things easier. The drow assassins mentioned many names of people already marked by the tattoo. They mentioned Rhizome, Plenarius, Alexander, Celgar, Toman, Derrick and others I know as well. I wonder if there is anything we can do, or if our hands are bound. I for one promised the drow a fight, a promise I intent to keep – with or without the poisoned tattoo. I will not be a thrall to them! Then rather die fighting them. A disturbing thing happened just before the drow left us. I tried taunting one of the drow to lure them closer, so that I might give way to my rage… instead the drow pulled off its hood, exposing his black skin to the brought sunlight – he did not even flinch! The assassin claimed arrogantly that they had adapted to the sunlight! If he spoke true we have lost our greatest advantage. I must discover a way to remove the poison before the drow attack. I have several ideas where to go and search answers, but I must discuss them with others first. I must also warn the members of the Grey Circle. The drow know about our group and they spoke of a task for us. We must be careful, even more than we already are. ________________________________________________________________________________________________
  I no longer carry Drezneb’s ring. A servant to the queen was sent to retrieve it for investigation purposes. The woman knew the password I had told king Waylend, so I let her have it. A great burden has been taken from my shoulders.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

>>> The following letter is delivered to one of the palace guards in Pranzis, and to one of the castle guards of the Blackford Castle. The letters are addressed to King Waylend and Queen Allurial.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

I am wondering if Queen Allurial and King Waylend have yet returned from their negotiations with Sinthar Bloodstone. If they haven't I might be waiting for a reply to my letter for weeks. On the other hand it was several weeks ago that I heard of it from Ozy. I will have to be patient.
________________________________________________________________________________________________

*footnote at the bottom of the page*

Remember to ask Triba to teach you how to open locks without using force. My axe is all dented after all the locks I smashed in the guildhouse of the underguild. I will ask Harg to work on it once he is back...

[Harlas Ravelkione]

After having consulted several people for information regarding the drow invasion I met with Quin in the Grey Circle headquarters. We talked long about the current situation, and we discussed roads that we might take. We both agreed to consult another before doing anything, since our decisions might affect not only us, but many. Therefore we packed our gear and travelled to Dregar, where we hoped to be able to find Ozymandias. We found the bard and learned much – but most importantly we agreed on courses of action!
Quin and I will choose different paths to attain similar goals. Quin will work to obtain a sample of the poison, so that an antidote might be created. He has found a way to accomplish this, and made plans for the road ahead of him. Chances are good that it might work, and wouldn’t it be for the key-person in the plan I would be content. We will have to rely on someone who is everything but trustworthy and knows nothing of loyalty – at least not to us. The drow must not hear about our plans, else we are bound to fail. They must think us weak and afraid because of the poison.  Quin will tread carefully. He knows that the road ahead of him is a dangerous one. I will keep an eye on him whenever I have one to spare, and ask others to do the same. I just hope it will be enough.
As for my path… it leads me to Roldem, and possibly even to the forbidden elven island of Voltrex. My original idea was to discover a way to get an allowance from the elves of Voltrex to enter their kingdom. I know that non-elves have been given a pass to Voltrex, but how it was attained I do not know. That was to be my first path.
In the meantime another path presented itself. When I talked with Harg about our current problems he mentioned a clan of dwarves on Roldem. Harg has visited the clan more than once, and has gained friends there. The clan both masters numerous crafts and delves in magic. I am looking forward to visiting this clan, and I hope that something might come from it. It is not the first time this poison has surfaced, and the dwarfs might hold records old. So many are infected with the poison, especially after the poisoning of the wells. Something must come from this…

* A clear passage shows a change of subject. *

The dark alliance. The cult that has Corath as its patron has been the subject of many conversations I have witnessed. I know not exactly how many members there are in this cult, but I know of some of them. No more than a few weeks ago I came across a group in the goblin wastes outside Hlint. I recognised some of the members in this group, people that made me decide to hide and sneak closer. Chanda, the priestess of Corath, Markus Perrin, Nethro Vigors, and a hooded man called Kit (an elf or drow I think, judging from his stature) I recognised in this group – some of them suspected members of the dark alliance. They were talking to a woman called Ember, Ember Darkhope I think. Not long after my arrival they moved to a secluded spot in the Sielwood Forest, needless to say I followed. There Chanda spoke to Ember of power, wealth and influence. The priestess tried to make the woman believe that such things are given by Corath to his followers… of course she did not speak of the price to be paid for such favours. I could no longer listen to the luring words of the priestess any longer, so I walked from my hiding place into the light of their fire. I told Ember what I know of Corath and his deeds. I told her what might become of her, if she chose to follow the teachings of the priestess and her dark lord. Of course the other people around the fire were upset by my intrusion, and tried to scare me away with promises of violence. I readied my weapons and stayed, still talking to the woman Ember. Soon the other 4 people left, as did the woman Ember. I hope I managed to put some sense to this woman. I spoke to her about my lord, Rofirein, because I hoped that he might banish the darkness from the woman’s troubled mind. I do not know if I succeeded or failed.
The dark alliance has some kind of agreement with the drow, maybe even an alliance. I am not sure how far their co-operation goes, but since both sides will not trust the other, I have hopes that their alliance is a fragile one. The alliance is also known to have worked with the black wizards – probably via Rufus Coldfinger. The reason I am concerned is that the members of the alliance walk freely in the villages, towns and cities of Mistone. It would have been easy for them to poison the wells, although I have no proof of this. I hope that the alliance is about to brake – if not now, the drow will surely take care of that when they are done with them.
The black wizards. Some of the things that have occurred during the last months have made me wonder at the goals of the black wizards, and their allegiance. I believed them to be dedicated to Corath. But I am almost certain that the group behind the ascension (or resurrection) of the viper god were the black wizards. Of course it might have been otherwise, but my gut tells me I am right. If this is the case, they (or at least some of them) have allied themselves with Bloodstone. It is Bloodstone who would benefit from an alliance with the viper. He knows that he cannot stand against a unified pantheon, and therefore needs powerful allies – even better if they are in the pantheon and can work actively for him there. I think Corath must have realised that Bloodstone will never be an ally for him. Therefore some of the black wizards may have renounced Corath in favour of Bloodstone. There will be strife among them. Maybe to a degree that some of them might have chosen a third patron – the shadow dragon that is said to be the source of their power. Somehow we must be able to use this to our advantage.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

* The following are notes on several subjects. It seems that over time some have been added, while others have been erased. *
  PATHS FOR THE GREY CIRCLE:
  Shifter. That powerful mage must not be forgotten. He is an ally as powerful as any. If but we could retrieve his necklace and bring him back.
  The Dark Alliance.
  The Drow.
  The Black Wizards.
  Demons. I was told that there are two races of demons. These two races fight an everlasting war – everywhere, but here on Layonara. Bloodstone has found a way to control the demons, which form the main part of his forces. The proud demons will be struggling to free themselves, and I imagine that their kin will not approve of the situation. Could they be freed, Bloodstone would be surely weakened. Ozy is working on it…
  Bloodstone’s Generals: Milara, Xandriel, Drezneb, Eon. Milara is working to destroy Rofirein and take his seat. He is supporting the drow to weaken Mistone, and its protector, my lord. This must not come to happen! I will put all my efforts to prevent it! I have thought of the generals. Each of them is powerful beyond comprehension… but there must be weaknesses – there is no perfect armour, so there cannot be a perfect magic shield either. I have thought about a group, designed and trained for the purpose of killing one or more of Bloodstone’s generals. If there is but a slight possibility of success, this chance must not be turned down.
  Dragons. The few remaining dragons – feared though they be – might be considered potential allies against Bloodstone. He almost completely wiped our their entire species before he was imprisoned, which is a persuasive argument to fight him. I know of a black, a green, a blue, a shadow and a red dragon. Fisterion, although he probably is the most evil and dangerous of them, might be the first to go to. The others might follow if he chooses to aid us (or rather aid himself).

[Harlas Ravelkione]

It has been years since last I made an entry into this journal. Much has happened during that time and as I read through my previous entries I must say that I see many things clearer today. Age has finally caught up with me and left its mark. I do not know if I can claim to have become wiser, but experience has taught me a thing or two.
 
 
 
By now I have mastered most crafts. I have mastered the arts of weaponand armour smithing, smelting, wood crafting, tinkering, tailoring and alchemy. I am a proficient food crafter, but with time and patience it will grow on me. With my striving to master the crafts I honour Dorand as I honour Vorax in prayer before the coming of a battle. Although my heart belongs to Rofirein my honour both Dorand and Vorax as patrons of my people. It is primarily due to their gifts that we are what we are. Dorand lets our hands form what our mind compels them to do. The constructions and artworks of the ancestors of my people never seizes to amaze and inspire me. I will use my experience and imagination to follow their lead. Now that I have found my place, my home, I will walk the paths of beauty and mastery of the crafts like my ancestors did.  Vorax has always brought out the best in me. It is in times of dire danger and in the face of terror and death that I remember the teachings of the Father of Battle, taught to me by Hargranar Craggenhilt. Vorax lets me face my enemies knowing that the courage and steadfast resolve of my ancestors will let me overcome them. Dwarven steel and values will never waver. As long as there is dwarven courage and discipline, warriors shouting and laughing at the sight of Bloodstone’s demonic army, as long as there is faith and loyalty to Vorax the war will continue until the last demon has fallen.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

Someone once told me: "A good drow is a drow who defies its nature to do evil, thus only to be trusted when the nature of the drow changes. Untill then eyes on your back and front for they will stab you from both."

I still carry the tattoo of the spider. Desolation’s Spire. The drow have not made their next move, but they must surely soon be ready. The Council has stirred more than once, and even though we have most of the ingredients for the antidote together, having spent weeks travelling and seeking answers to our questions there are still many questions left unanswered. Questions about the Families of Light, Shadow and Sound. Questions about the Cradle.
We learned much on the trip to the grove of A’zatta, listening to memories of old that were somehow stored. We also have the diaries. So much information is available, but as more is revealed more questions come up. Our first priority, however, should still be the antidote. Without the antidote we cannot face the onslaught and live. Before we can risk seeking out the Healer again we must have a sound plan though. We must be able to defend ourselves, even against the Council, and we must find a way to protect the Spirit of the Island, the Wolf.

Veldrin. He sought me out in the mines beneath Haven, so long ago now. Ramamon purged him. It seems the necromancer made a deal with the Council or one of their representatives. All that was good and noble in Veldrin was burned… extinguished by a foul magic. What remains is drow – hate, lust for power and tyranny over others. He was different, not so anymore.
He seems to still regard Connor as a friend, or even brother. It was due to this that Connor was able to harvest the flowers in he grove. No one else would have been allowed to pass Veldrin’s 32. Perhaps he still remembers friendship, or perhaps it was repayment of a debt. I have no doubt that we will meet him again… Blood will be spilled.

Veldrin’s mother, Vas’menier of House Lairilweki, has eluded me for months. I have learned that though she may be lost to some she is very much alive. She attacked the woman from Krandor, whose child she murdered many years ago, in a place that should have been safe. How she knew I cannot guess, but now I know she is still alive. Luckily the woman was being watched, and as the assassin made her move another moved into her path. In fact Vas’menier was almost killed that day.
I must fulfil my promise to the woman and kill her, with her own blade.

Hargranar has spent months with his Clan. After Elof was killed by Kelezephian it was up to Harg to make arrangements for a proper funeral and to point to a successor. I wonder if Harg himself should not take the seat of his brother instead.
Time will tell. First we must hunt down Kelezephian and kill that freak. He may be nothing but a tool of others, but he killed Harg’s brother. Harg will have his vengeance, and my help.

There is much to be done, but so little time for us to do it in.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

It was when I agreed on a mission for the temple of Xeen in Karthy that I first met Violet. The temple had experimented with dreams and had devised a machine that, by drawing on powers of a being called Radiance, was able to let one live through whatever scenarios one wished in ones dreams. However, Radiance was out of control.
Later we learned that the Xeenites were devising a similar machine that they named Nightmare. The name says it all, but at that time a powerful geas had been placed on us by the High Priestess and it was too late to pull out.
We discovered the existence of Dreamers. Women who can walk the dreams… even manipulate them. We sought out a woman who lived in the outskirts of the Broken Mountains on Vanavar. Her name was Violet. At first she was reluctant to help us due to past experiences where others had taken advantage of her and her talents. However, after talking to her in more detail about our quest she agreed to test our motives. Violet entered the dream to do this and the panther that I first thought was her animal went into a rage. No one could come near her while she was in her trance without being instantly attacked by the panther. Later we discovered that the panther was not only her guardian, but something she referred to as her Holder. Every Dreamer needs a Holder to protect her both inside and outside of the Dream. Without the Holder she would be attacked and most likely killed by beings in the Dream, or possibly even outside the Dream.

Together with Violet we overcame the obstacles in our path before we entered Nightmare. We faced the Invisible Blade, an assassin based in Arabel, and a Lich in a crypt near Fort Velensk. Those places we sought out in order to retrieve the Veil of Whispered Secrets and the Band of the Night Hunt. The Veil and Band strengthened both Holder and Dreamer inside the Dream, which we feared would be become necessary if we were to overcome the dangers inside Nightmare.
When we finally entered Nightmare we experienced both horrors and temptations I will not mention here. It suffices to say that we freed both Radiance and a handful of other Dreamers from the control of the Xeenites.
On our travels together I have come to enjoy the company of Violet. She is both bright and very beautiful… and… she has touched my heart in a way that no other ever did.

* An empty passage follows with but a few ink blots. *

Sadly she is an elf. With my new responsibilities something like that would be difficult at best. Besides, I am not one for her. I must remember that.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

I was in Hlint when they found me. Quickly I left town and let them chase me to a more private location. It was near Storan’s crypt that she landed, riding the undead dragon that was her Holder. She was once a leader of Dreamers. But poor use, manipulation and abuse ended a time when Dreamers could walk free and tended only by their bestial Holders. She was captured by the Lich in the crypt near Velensk. She was studying him but got too close. He made her one of his own… a vampire. She came to me with tidings of a new time and she told me I was the one to choose. “The final of the Dreamers now unbound and waiting for a path”, she said. “The others showed care above all, and now it is your choice that decides the last of the roads to take. In eternal commitment and care the anchor can be chosen, in denial the ward remains hers. Yet the path for our kind, you are choosing for one of my kind. The threads of the Dream fray and bend, the path sits wide and unknown for those who choose it. To dream, to hold, to make safe and keep dear. The path that is your choice along. Anchor or not is to be a decision only can make.”  The vampiric Dreamer made a gesture with her hand and suddenly Violet's Holder appeared. She slew it instantly and said: "She will take another holder at some time no doubt, yet if I cannot entrust her to someone then she will return with me, the same choice as was given the others."
  It was then that I understood. I chose to commit myself. I chose to care for Violet. I grasped the thread, and it snapped tight, latching itself to my consciousness. I could feel Violets presence in my mind along this new and strange link. The dream opened to me... through her.
  My choice doomed the vampiric Dreamer. She died, along with her Holder.
  As I stood there, seeing her fall, my link to Violet suddenly tightened and a door in my mind revealed itself. I chose to open it and I entered.  In dream I entered a room, with a dwarf lying on a bed. It was the very same dwarf that I saw inside Nightmare. In Nightmare he was happily mining and crafting the finest of weapons I had ever seen. However, those were his dreams. In reality he had lost the use of his limbs in a mining accident. He would never be able to mine or craft again.  It was strange. I had not noticed this feeling before. An odd feeling of kinship to this dwarf, calling to me in ties of bone and blood. I knew this dwarf to be family. Then, slowly the dream door closed shut and Violet's presence began to recede and pull away. Only moments before I was pulled to wakefulness, a form emanated from the dwarf. He spoke: "You must find me, find me... brother."
  Violet's presence remains with me now, always, although muted in my mind. She is awake and not in the Dream, but she is still a constant in my consciousness now, as am I in hers.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

When the vision had passed I was left with a strange sense of determination. I wanted to find this dwarf, at all costs. I tried to recall what I had seen. There was this broken statue that I knew I had seen before, as well as this burned building behind it. Then it hit me – Point Harbour! I set out immediately towards Port Hampshire to hire a spot on the next ship.
  One of my most pleasant sea trips thus far lead me to the docks of Point Harbour. I knew I would not have to go far as I set out for the quickest route to the city’s slums. I was both amazed and saddened when I discovered the dwarf there, lying in the gutter. Missing both an arm and a leg, he was blissfully sleeping, an empty bottle in his lap. I woke him up, trying not to startle him. At first he was afraid, terrified even that I had come to mug him or just to give him a good beating. It was not easy to convince him that I had no such intentions. I offered him food and water. He accepted this hesitantly, but then ate and swallowed as if expecting me to take it away from him again. It was then that he began to talk, asking me who I was. At the mention of Bluntaxe I noticed a sense of recollection in his face. Instead of talking in the street I helped him up and took him inside, offering him more food and drink as well as a hot bath. It was then that I discovered that he had also lost the use of his eyes.
Comfortably sitting in a chair, his feet up, a tray of salty pork in his lap and an ale in his remaining hand he began his tale.  His name is Gam, at least these days it is Gam. His real name is a curse to all who hear it, he told me. Gam was once a fighter, with a shining armour and a heavy axe. Those were his glory days. When they weren't fighting he wrote the lines, passing it on to others.  I noticed that his one remaining hand was odd. Old callouses that were no miner’s sat on them, the scars that littered his grey skin were not from stone chips or other such accidents. Yet there was also an incongruity in his hands, behind the marks left by hard axe work are gentler marks. At that time I was almost lead to think that he had spent a long time with a quill as well.
  He asked me about my parents and when I mentioned that my mother is a former Stonesmasher, Gam was surprised. He told me that my mother was from a line of lorekeepers, called the "Arakthu'Lur" in the dwarven tongue. Gam: "Your father, Bluntaxe... his line is a little more twisted if you know what I mean. Outclan... came into your clan as an outsider. This was many generations ago now you be knowing though, your forefather married a maid from the Hiltgrab line, and mixed in from there." Gam told me he was born a Stonesmasher, which makes him kin to me. I was pleasantly surprised by this piece of information. Not only had my feeling in the dream proven true, but I had also already taken a liking to the old dwarf.
  Gam told me had no home left today. The halls are dust and the seats have fallen. "They" did that.  Gam's real name is Ga'Taghor Runeshaper, after his craft. He was the lorekeeper at the time of the fall. He kept the books and the lines, held the knowledge of the clans whole for the future. A sacred trust. The lorekeepers held safe, contained what was beneath and were trusted with making sure that it never came forth.  The halls were grand yet formidable, powerful walls built to defend and hold the way safe, for the way beneath held only evil. The dead often came forth from the lower tunnels, and they always thought that their trust was to hold them to below, not to let them come forth to the surface and see the light of day. The clans kept that trust, the old lorekeeper, a wise one he was, advised the last Thane that "to hold" was enough. No need to venture below, just keep them bottled up, that was their task.  The clans grew, became strong, strong in craft and strong in way. Soon the trust didn’t seem to be mattering as much as it had. Gam was young then, just in his training as lorekeeper. The Thanes' son, Tathus Richvein, Gam's close friend, was different to his father. He saw the sacred duty as a burden, something that held the clans back from what they could be. He wanted to end it, so that the warding of the place could end.  Gam still remembers the death of the old thane, and soon after the loremaster. He remembers when Tathus took over the clans with Gam as advisor, Keeper of the Lore. Together they convinced them that they were right, that they needed to end the threat from below once and for all. It was not recorded what it was, but they could not be seeing anything that could stand in the way of the mighty clans. Gam remembers the glorious days well. The warriors lined, shields and axes sparking in the firelight. The tunnels beneath were many and the path was never walked. Yet the pride of the clans did not see them getting lost. It did not see them not finding what it was they sought. They marched out for the final time, the last time before the clans were broken. For beneath there were far more than they bargained for. Far, far more.  Dead things Gam never saw before, they fought them all, and even though it was a tough trip, it was not deserving of the full might of the clans, not at all. Far deeper than they had ever been they reached an ancient chamber, it had a shaft of light, red as rubies fluttering in the centre. The Thane ordered the advance, convinced this is what they were seeking an end to. Perhaps he was right, but it did not much matter for when they approached the room broke into chaos, dead things streamed from all over, dead things swarmed over them like they were nothing more than ants. Gam's axe glittered, the Thane's twin axes glittered and they fought, but one by one their brothers fell. One by one they rose again and took up arms against the remaining dwarves. Soon enough the entire dwarven host was down to two, soon enough the entire pride of the clans stood arrayed against them. Just Gam and the Thane remained alive... the others all dead.  Dead. Gam and the Thane thought they were gone, of course. But a thing, a thing stepped out of the ruby light, it held the horde back as it approached them. The Thane and Gam were not going down without their axes of course, and they attempted to fight the creature... but it was no good. No good at all. It was then that Gam lost his arm and leg. It took his axe and tore them from him like Gam was a girl's doll. But, it left them alive, mocking and tormenting them it teased as it told them... it was their fault, they led them there, they brought them to the depths and made the grave for each of them. And now... the dead were reaching for the very halls that they had preserved for so many years. The thing touched them then, it was laughing in its way Gam believes, laughing as they were helpless. And never he felt a pain like that before. It was like it tore him up from the insides out, and in its way it did. Gam's heart, maybe his soul was torn, as the light from that shaft filled him. He passed out before it was over.  When they awoke the dead were gone, the chamber was gone, and all they could think of was fleeing to warn the others that they had to get out. That they did, their beautiful halls were being laid ruin, the Thane's chamber was almost collapsed as the undead dwarven army swarmed over it.  Few... they saved so few. In the end, they led no more than a hundred survivors from their halls, from all the clans, and lines that were. Hounded by undead as they fled. They still do not know what happened to them all. They separated, sending small groups in many different directions. Hoping at least some would carry the clans forward... some. Strange though, the Thane and Gam travelled together, hard without a leg to get far on your own. The hordes only struck once, to separate them from each other. After that they left them alone.  Now, Gam told me had been in Point Harbour or around for many lifetimes. He has gotten older, but he does not die. The Thane, Gam did not know where he got to but he believed him to be still alive as well. The others, they never found them. Never really looked for them either though. The dead subsided Gam was told, headed back into the tunnels they came from. Gam has lived for centuries. A curse lies upon him, like on the Thane. He is undead - no heart beats in his chest.
 

[Harlas Ravelkione]

The story of the fall of the clan stirred something in me, a feeling of loss. Like I had lost something when the clans were broken and had to flee their ancestral home. I was overwhelmed by a need to see the halls that my ancestors built, my true home. Never have I really felt at ease in any particular place, like I belonged there. Growing up in the small town of Boulder did not give me this feeling and living in Fort Llast in recent years has not done so either.  I shared my thoughts with Gam, who cautioned me that I would find only death there. He asked me if I really believed I might be able to do what an army could not. I answered that I would go… that I had to see it for myself. He seemed to be expecting that answer and warned me again against the corruption that lies dormant there, but will stir as soon as the living return. I tried to explain to him that I had no hopes to defeat what they could not, but that I had to see for myself – see and sense – and that I would not go alone. Gam: "Those who followed Tathus and me made their choice to follow us on their own. Still, it was us who made the bad choice in the first place."  I did not wish to endanger my friends, nor did I wish to be the cause for others to fall. Still, I knew that I had to go. If I did not it would haunt me for the rest of my life.  Gam did not wish to give me the location of the fallen clan home. He told me he did not want to be the cause of another dead kinsman. However, he also knew that I would not give up the search, so he told me that I must go to the Thane. If Tathus Richvein would agree to give me the information, so be it.  Gam did not know what path the Thane took. He knew, however, that he was forced to the east coast of Dregar, if he made it that far.  The halls of home are on Dregar. The caverns were beautiful, and there is gold, and even a small mithril deposit there. The halls were all carved, stories of our heroes, put in place by decades and centuries of work by our craftsmen. There is a place there, called the "Lair of Columns" in the common tongue. There were four columns within the Lair when it fell, each carved with the deeds of a hero of the clans, great deeds across a rock raised to the cavern's roof.  Gam described Tathus Richvein as being dark haired and bearded, heavily muscled and highly charismatic. He wears a ring that identifies him as Thane of the clans. In the past he was fond of using two small axes; that may have changed now though.
  I left Gam in a safe house. A place where he can have his peace and will be cared for until my return. Together with Hargranar I set out for the shores of Dregar.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

How to find a single dwarf who has been lost for generations? He might have left Dregar for good, he may live in a secluded house somewhere on a mountaintop and he may not even want to be found.
  I began my search in Pranzis. There I visited the merchant who is also Head of House Arivanis. I had helped him before and I hoped that he might be able to return the favour. He has a big business, ships leaving for ports all over Layonara and knows much and many.  As always I was greeted as a friend. I told them in short that I was searching for a dwarf. He might look royal and wear expensive or exotic garments. A loner, one that people might remember. Avren, a female agent of House Arivanis, who I worked with previously in Hurm, told me of an old tale about a dwarf that wandered the coasts. It concerned a creature that was called the howling one.
  “It is often told by sailors who sail those coasts, as a horror story. A figure that plys the inland bays and waters, stocky and misshapen it moans through the night. Always near the waters edge, moaning as it goes. The tale has it that this deformed creature seeks life, for its own was lost in a dreadful past of drowning. It is said a ship known as the Gale, a corsair of ill repute once sailed those waters, with a shrunkened creature as a captain.  It preyed upon merchants up and down the coast, the fiendish leader of the crew a dwarf that pushed them beyond all means and endurance. They pillaged and despoiled yet the greedy urchin kept all gains for himself. He never shared a single shaved golden grain with the crew, so one day they decided to set a trap for the captain.  This captain you see was notorious for leading his own boarding parties. It was said that he had the luck of the gods and was never scratched by a mortal weapon. So on a fateful storm driven day, the crew cornered another ill fated ship, the captain leapt forward as was his usual want and fell upon the armed crew with a great savagery. However his own crew did not follow. They stayed on board the Gale, releasing the ship. Even though he was alone, the captain did not seem to be harmed in any real way. The pirates jeered as they sailed away, yet they were to find such jeering had a price, for the dwarf threw himself from the enemy vessel, into the waves howling at the top of his lungs about them making off with his treasures. They watched him drown, and felt safe. They celebrated and drank for many a night. On the fourth night though, while they slept, a wet clambering aboard the deck was heard, and then a dreadful howling set up. The whole crew was horribly slain, blood and entrails splattered from one side of the ship to the other.  The ship was found as it hobbled into port, rotten bodies everywhere - all bearing wounds of an axe. Not one single coin was found on the ship, it was stripped barren. The captain's body was never found. It is said that the captain stalks the Eastern Coast of Dregar, searching every last copper of his hoard, until he has it all back. It sailed into Harper's Ferry.”
  Avren gave me directions to Harper’s Ferry, should I want to investigate the story further. To Xora's tower, then east from there. That would strike me directly upon Harper's Ferry. She also gave me the name of a Captain Varence, who has his small ship, the Luci, docked in Saudiria. Varence is one who knows many tales and has travelled the East Coast of Dregar for many years. He might be one to seek for more information.
  Mister Arivanis told me another story about a band of dwarven mercenaries. They were recently hired to destroy Firivine Hamlet, a small village. It is said a larger town wanted the small trade route through Firivine, and paid the mercenaries to burn the village.  The leader of the group is said to be a devil, heartless. It is said he goes into battle howling like the hells. He will do or sell anything for the right price. They say he cannot be cut, and doesn't feel a thing either, but these seem like the traditional signs of a berserker.  I found that there were similarities in the two stories, so I asked the Arivanis to look further into the matter for me. Later on he got back to me and told me that the mercenaries may be contacted via Arabel, Karthy or Hurm. They operate from somewhere in the East of Dregar, but he does not know where exactly. The story goes that this leader seeks something in his vile and horrendous acts - something that he does not have himself. He inflicts pain on others, on all who cross him, and sometimes on those who don't. Not one of the souls who survived the massacre of the village did not bear his mark in one way or another. His group is called the Silent Axes. Their leader is called Yegar Axebinder. I was handed a list of the 12 survivors of the burned Hamlet. Two dwarven women were among them. Although one of them killed herself later on and tried to kill her baby as well, but failed. The baby is now being taken care of in the A'zatta temple in Saudiria. The second girl lives with her little girl in North Point.
Idecided to travel to Saudiria and visit the temple and the child.  
 

[Harlas Ravelkione]

The drow priestess at the temple of A’zatta agreed to let me see the boy. Before I saw him, however, she told me disturbing things about this child, who still is only a small dwarven lad. The priestess had spoken to the mother before she committed suicide. She told me that his mother had described the boy’s father as a dwarf with the face of an Voraxian Angel, but with the soul of one lost to the hells.  “The boy seems to delight in causing strange pains to others, even himself at times. He is tormented, and has no regret whatsoever. He lacks something.”
  The priestess believed the boy still might change though, if he wished it. She left me waiting as she went into the courtyard to get the boy. When I first laid eyes on the boy, from a distance, I saw how incredibly vibrant and attractive he was. He had dark hair and eyes and seemed to almost have a visible aura of charm and charisma. Yet his eyes were cold, almost like windows to a deep empty well that sought hungrily for something to fill them. In those depths I got the feeling that something dark and cursed did truly lurk. If I had any doubts about the boy’s heritage they were washed away by those dark eyes of his. I asked the priestess to follow me outside, still a bit unsettled both by the boy’s stunning appearance but also by his gaze. I asked the priestess to make sure he was taken care of and handed her a decent amount of gold to ensure this. She told me that he would receive both love and care, if he would only let them. However, if his behaviour and cravings did not change they might be forced to take him away from the other children in the orphanage. I told her that I understood that, of course. Additionally I promised her that I would come for him once my search for the Clan had come to an end.
  Before I left the priestess gave me a thing. She told me it was the only thing the mother to the boy had from the father of the child. I was handed a dwarven war braid. Black and gold were woven through it with fine cloth, yet on closer examination the cloth showed to be metal. Metal so thin it was flexible! Platinum and gold sheets of fabric-like density. Never in my entire life had I seen such craftsmanship. The war braid was the final clue. I was convinced that this Yegar Axebind must in truth be Tathus Richvein, Thane of the Clans.  
  Together with Hargranar I set out for Hurm, where Avren had told me I might be able to get in touch with the mercenaries of the Silent Axe.

[Harlas Ravelkione]

In Hurm I asked around for a man named Berovin, a dock worker. His job at the docks may be a facade only though, since it is rumoured that he has contacts in the shadow thieves, and may be one himself. Berovin knows how to find the right people for the right job. After some asking around I finally found Berovin and started to palaver. After some talk, but primarily due to my gold, he agreed to set up a meeting with the Silent Axe Mercenaries. He told me that Yegar and his Silent Axes are holed up somewhere near Harper’s Ferry, but he could not say where exactly. He warned us, however, that they are a ruthless bunch and that he does not want to be connected to us or them in any way. I agreed to his terms, left the docks started looking for a place to stay until the next day.
   In the evening of the next day I left Hurm together with Hargranar. We set out to meet one or more of Yegar’s mercenaries outside town. We did not have to wait long until they approached us. 5 dwarves in full plate, carrying great axes on their backs. Their leader approaches us and asked straight away why we wished to join their group. I answered that we needed the coin. He asked us if we could take orders without asking questions and what skills we had. I tried to formulate answers that would please him, and so did Harg. Our intent was to infiltrate the Silent Axe and discover if Yegar is in truth the Thane of the clans, Tathus Richvein. What happened next was more than just a surprise. After we had answered his question the leader turned to 3 of his dwarven companions and ordered them to kill us. The 3 battle ready dwarven warriors charged us without question and we were very hard pressed to hold them off. However, Harg called Kramir to our aid and we slew the attackers. I was surprised to see the leader giggling after we had killed 3 of his warriors. He handed each of us a dwarven war braid and told us to go to Xora's tower and then head east. Their camp was based in the upper mountains on the third slope. The small valley can be seen from the top of the second peak in the range. He turned to leave as he said: “Wear the braid or we will slay you on sight.”