Category: Red Larch

The Characters begin their search for the Missing Delegation – Part Two

March 28th, 2024

Having been supplied with new equipment, horses and armour, our adventurers set forth from Red Larch, their spirits bolstered by recent events that had seen them align with the shadowy Zhentarim. Their journey would take them through the rugged Sumber Hills, along the winding path toward Beliard, a journey marked by the unknown and the promise of discovery.

Bizarre Snowstorm

The tranquility of their travel was soon disrupted by a bizarre and abrupt snowstorm, an anomaly that seemed out of place amidst the landscape’s usual clime. The snow, thick and fast, was quickly replaced by a warm, tropical rain, drenching the adventurers to the bone and chilling them to their core. After passing through the storm, and the weather returned to normal, they encountered a shepherd, who spoke of the weather’s strange fickleness and of odd, unfamiliar travelers haunting the hills. The Shepard said, many were camping back where the storm currently is.

Driven by curiosity and concern, the party ventured back toward the storm to investigate the shepherd’s tales, only to be repelled by the severe weather. They made the prudent decision to seek shelter, building a fire to fend off the cold that had seeped into their bones.

Their respite was shattered in the dead of night by the menacing figure of a Bugbear, emerging from the shadows with malice in its eyes. The battle that ensued was fierce, but through the valor and quick thinking of Gulunda, the adventurers emerged victorious, the threat vanquished beneath the starlit sky.

With the dawn came a renewed determination to press onward. Their journey through the Sumber Hills brought them to a homestead, where the warmth of human connection momentarily eased the burdens of their quest. The kindness of children and the melodies of Kiertan’s songs created a brief interlude of peace amidst the looming threat of the unknown.

Continuing north, the adventurers were greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the Great Stone Bridge. This ancient edifice, a testament to Dwarven engineering, spanned the landscape with majesty and might, its surface home to a vibrant community of Gnomes. The explorers marveled at the bridge’s grandeur, its history whispering tales of ages long past.

At last, they arrived in Beliard, weary yet undeterred. Kiertan’s talents secured them lodging and respite, a night of music and camaraderie providing a much-needed reprieve from their travels. Yet, as they settled in, their thoughts were already turning toward the morrow, and the foreboding adventure that lay ahead. The missing delegation called to them, a mystery shrouded in the shadows of the Sumber Hills, waiting to be unveiled.

Thus, our adventurers stood on the cusp of a new chapter, their bonds forged in the fires of battle and solidified by the shared experiences that had brought them this far. Ahead of them lay the unknown, the fabric of their story yet to be woven into the rich tapestry of Faerûn’s history.
The Characters begin their search for the Missing Delegation – Part One

March 28th, 2024

In the quaint town of Red Larch, nestled amidst the bustling trade routes of the Dessarin Valley, a new day dawned bright and early, casting a golden hue over the cobblestone streets and quaint thatched-roof cottages. The town, recently stirred from its placid routine by unsettling discoveries and harrowing adventures beneath its very foundations, was abuzz with whispers and rumors. Our intrepid adventurers, having played a pivotal role in the events that unfolded, awoke with a sense of anticipation, unaware that the day ahead would further entwine their fates with the machinations of power and intrigue that threaded through Faerûn.

Their morning began unremarkably, with the mundane task of restocking supplies, yet the air was thick with the palpable sense of change. Everywhere they turned, the townsfolk of Red Larch engaged in hushed conversations, their words laden with disbelief and concern over the revelations of the previous day. The Believers, a cult that had once woven its influence quietly through the ranks of the town’s leadership, was now exposed, leaving a community grappling with betrayal and shock.

Constable Harbuck is a Hero

Amidst this turmoil, Constable Harburk, a figure of steadfast resolve and newfound heroism, emerged as a beacon of stability. His alliance with Bara’s Marauders, facilitated by the courage and cunning of our adventurers in navigating the treacherous tunnels beneath Red Larch, had tipped the scales of power. The constable’s actions not only discredited the leading citizens entangled with the Believers but also heralded a new era for the town, with Jalessa Ornra assuming the mantle of mayor, promising reform and recovery.

As the day waned, the adventurers found themselves at a crossroads, not of paths but of allegiances. Representatives from five mighty factions within Faerûn sought their favor, each extending an invitation to join their ranks. The Harpers, stewards of knowledge and guardians against tyranny; The Emerald Enclave, defenders of the natural order; The Order of the Gauntlet, crusaders of justice and valor; The Lords’ Alliance, strategists and diplomats of the realm; and the Zhentarim, a shadow network pursuing influence and wealth. Each faction presented its vision and rewards, from gold pieces to emeralds, to tokens of affiliation.

The Characters Choose a Faction

Intrigued by the allure of shadows and the promise of power, our adventurers pledged their loyalty to the Zhentarim. The decision was not made lightly, for in aligning with this faction, they embraced a path fraught with peril and opportunity alike. As tokens of their new allegiances were exchanged—a scroll sealed with the Order of the Gauntlet’s wax for Harburk’s commendation among them—the adventurers were reminded of the complex web of loyalties and enmities that spanned the lands of Faerûn. For joining the Zhentarim, the players were give a small tattoo under their right arm on the inside, to be shown as proof of membership in the faction, if ever needed.

The tattoo the characters received.

Thus, with new allies and a burgeoning reputation, the adventurers set forth from Red Larch, the weight of their decisions trailing behind them like shadows at dusk. Little did they know, the paths they would tread and the choices they would make would echo through the halls of power, shaping the destiny of the Dessarin Valley and beyond. This was but the first chapter in a saga of magic, intrigue, and adventure—a tale of heroes drawn together by fate, bound to the heart of the Princes of the Apocalypse.
Larrakh, Exile of the Black Earth

March 24th, 2024

Title: Former Priest of the Black Earth Cult
Race: Human
Class: Cleric
Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
Last seen: defeated in the tomb of the moving stones.

Appearance:
Larrakh is a figure marked by his turbulent past, with sharp, calculating eyes that miss no detail. His once opulent priestly robes have been replaced by simpler, though still distinguished, attire that bears the muted colors of earth and stone. His hair is kept short, practical for the life of secrecy and caution he now leads. A notable scar crosses his cheek, a memento from the conflict that led to his exile.

Personality:
Larrakh is complex, driven by a blend of regret, ambition, and a desire for redemption. He possesses a keen intellect and is highly skilled in the arcane arts, particularly those connected to earth and stone. Despite his exile, he retains a deep, though conflicted, devotion to the elemental forces he once served. Larrakh is cautious and reserved, having learned the hard way the price of overreach and the betrayal of trust.

Background:
Once a rising star within the Cult of the Black Earth, Larrakh’s ambition led to overzealous actions that ultimately caused significant setbacks to the cult’s objectives. His miscalculations resulted in his exile, a punishment that spared his life but stripped him of his status and power within the cult. Now, Larrakh operates from the shadows, seeking ways to regain his former standing or, perhaps, to forge a new path that could either redeem or further damn him.

Abilities:
As a cleric of the Black Earth, Larrakh wields powerful earth-based magic, capable of manipulating stone, causing tremors, and fortifying defenses with elemental energy. His time in exile has honed his survival skills, making him adept at evading those who might still seek his life, be they former allies or new enemies. Larrakh is a formidable strategist, using his knowledge of the cult and its workings to either thwart or manipulate it from afar.

Equipment:
Larrakh carries a staff that doubles as a focus for his earth magic, carved from petrified wood and inset with stones that pulse with elemental power. His other possessions are few, carrying only what he needs to survive and continue his work in secrecy.

Role in the Story:
Larrakh is a wild card, his actions unpredictable but always significant. To some, he may become an unlikely ally, driven by a desire to thwart greater evils or by personal vendettas against those who wronged him. To others, he remains a dangerous and cunning foe, his motivations obscured by layers of deception and long-term schemes.

Motivations:
Larrakh’s primary motivation is to navigate the treacherous path he finds himself on, seeking a way to either return to power within the cult or to dismantle it as a means of revenge. His journey is one of self-discovery, challenging his beliefs and ambitions, and forcing him to confront the question of what, in the end, he truly values and desires.
Harbuck Tutharillar

March 24th, 2024

Constable Harbuck Tutharillar

Title: Constable of Red Larch
Race: Human
Class: Paladin, 10th Level
Background: Retired Army Veteran

Appearance:
Harbuck Tutharillar is a tall, lanky figure, with a presence that commands respect and attention. His weather-beaten face, marked by lines of wisdom and battle scars, tells the story of countless encounters and challenges faced throughout his life. His eyes, sharp and discerning, miss nothing. Despite his imposing stature, there’s an approachable warmth to him, reflected in his often awkward but genuine smile.

Personality:
Harbuck is known for his integrity, courage, and a somewhat unexpected sense of humor. His years in the army and as a paladin have instilled in him a strong sense of duty and justice, making him a steadfast protector of Red Larch. While he might appear goofy and awkward in conversation, those who know him well are aware of his deep wisdom and compassion. His commitment to the safety and well-being of his townspeople is unwavering.

Background:
Before becoming the constable of Red Larch, Harbuck served in the army, where he rose through the ranks thanks to his leadership skills, bravery, and paladin abilities. His service was marked by numerous commendations for valor and dedication. Upon retiring, he sought a quieter life but was drawn into the role of constable by his unwavering sense of duty and the need he saw in Red Larch for a strong, guiding hand.

Abilities:
As a 10th-level paladin, Harbuck possesses formidable combat skills, enhanced by his divine powers. His proficiency with both sword and shield makes him a formidable opponent in battle. His paladin abilities allow him to heal the wounded, protect the innocent, and smite evil with divine wrath. Harbuck’s deep faith and the divine magic at his command are central to his identity, guiding his actions and decisions.

Equipment:
Harbuck is rarely seen without his well-maintained armor, which, while showing signs of wear, serves as a testament to his experience and readiness to defend his charge. His weapon of choice is a longsword, bestowed upon him in his early days as a paladin, and a sturdy shield emblazoned with the symbol of his deity, signifying his commitment to justice and protection.

Role in Red Larch:
As constable, Harbuck is the first line of defense against threats to the town’s safety. He coordinates the town’s defenses, investigates crimes, and works tirelessly to maintain peace. Despite his achievements and abilities, he remains humble and approachable, always willing to lend an ear or a helping hand to those in need. His leadership during times of crisis has earned him the trust and admiration of Red Larch’s residents.

Motivations:
Harbuck is driven by a profound sense of duty and a desire to make a difference in the world. Having witnessed the darker sides of humanity during his military service, he strives to be a beacon of hope and a force for good in the lives of those he protects. His experiences have taught him the value of compassion, understanding, and the need to fight for those who cannot defend themselves.
Tomb of the Moving Stones, Part Two

March 24th, 2024

After their harrowing encounters in the depths of the quarry, Bara’s Marauders, our intrepid adventurers, ventured deeper into the shadowy recesses of the Tomb of the Moving Stones. The air grew colder, the darkness thicker, as they moved with cautious steps into the unknown. Little did they know, their journey was about to take a turn towards the heart of the conspiracy enveloping Red Larch.

In a dimly lit chamber, the sound of whimpering caught their attention. Tucked away in a corner was a frightened child, bound and alone. The party sprung into action, confronting the child’s captor, a fearsome half-orc enforcer of the Believers. The battle was fierce, but the adventurers’ might and unity prevailed, allowing them to free the captive. The child, Braelen, overflowed with gratitude and shared valuable insights into the Believers, the cult that had ensnared the town in its shadowy grasp.

With renewed determination, the party pressed on, guided by Braelen’s revelations. They soon encountered Baragustas, an elderly man burdened with the knowledge of the cult’s true nature. He warned them of Larrakh, a priest of the Cult of the Black Earth, lurking in the next chamber, plotting destruction.

Lucan, with his ability to shapeshift into a rat, scouted ahead. He discovered that Larrakh, sensing their presence, had concealed himself, waiting to unleash his malice. The adventurers prepared for a silent ambush, hoping to catch the priest off guard.

In a daring move, Lucan infiltrated the room once more, revealing Larrakh’s position and uncovering a secret door. Seizing the moment, Keirtan, ever the entertainer, burst through the secret passage with a flourish, startling Larrakh shouting “Here’s Johnny”. Bara Dume, quick on the draw, aimed his crossbow, ready for battle.

The ensuing conflict was tumultuous. Larrakh, a formidable spellcaster, unleashed an earthquake spell, knocking Keirtan and another companion to the ground. Despite the chaos, the adventurers’ resilience shone through, and they emerged victorious, Larrakh defeated.

Larrakh’s appear changes when he casts a spell.

In the aftermath, Baragustas and Braelen pledged their aid to the party. Together, they uncovered the cult’s hidden treasures before making their escape through the quarry, emerging near Dornen Fine Stone.

Their journey back to Red Larch was interrupted by Constable Harbuck, a lanky but formidable paladin. Despite his awkward demeanor, Harbuck proved a steadfast ally, rewarding them for their bravery and aiding in the town’s protection.

Their brief respite was shattered when two Cult of the Black Earth guards ambushed them. In a moment of panic, Bara Dume feigned helplessness, drawing the guards’ attention. Harbuck, ever the protector, joined the fray, ensuring the guards’ swift defeat.

As the dust settled, the adventurers found themselves in the middle of the street, catching their breath, surrounded by the grateful gazes of Red Larch’s citizens. Their journey through the Tomb of the Moving Stones had not only uncovered the depths of the cult’s corruption but had also forged bonds of friendship and courage that would echo through the ages.

Thus, the chapter closed on Bara’s Marauders’ daring escapade in the Tomb of the Moving Stones, with the promise of more adventures on the horizon, fighting against the shadows that threatened the land.
Tomb of the Moving Stones Part One

March 24th, 2024

Bara’s Marauders, a fellowship of adventurers known throughout the land for their bravery and cunning, decided it was time to leave the warm, boisterous atmosphere of the local tavern in Red Larch. Their destination was the mysterious quarry at Dornen Fine Stone, whispered to be the site of ancient, unexplained occurrences. Little did they know, their journey would soon take a dramatic turn.

As they strolled through the cobblestone streets, filled with the laughter of children at play, the ground suddenly trembled beneath their feet. Before anyone could react, the earth opened up, swallowing them into darkness. They found themselves falling through a massive sinkhole, along with a few children who had been playing nearby.

They landed with a slow thud in the midst of a vast cavern, its walls carved from stone centuries ago by diligent dwarves. Amidst the chaos and confusion, Bara’s Marauders quickly sprang into action, ensuring the children were unharmed and helping them to their feet, the locals from above lowered ropes for the children and the marauders helped the children to safety. Once certain of their safety, they turned their attention to their surroundings and noticed a door to the east.

Galundo, the party’s every so faithful support and Kiertan’s companion, lowered their gear, then dropped down to join them.

Approaching cautiously, they found several cloaks hung near the doorway, hinting at the presence of others just beyond. With a shared nod, they stepped through into a long corridor that stretched out before them, their torches flickering against the ancient stone walls.

The corridor branched offleading them to three doors, one going east, one going south and one north. Ignoring the southern door, which led to a collapsed tunnel, they chose the northern passage. This decision brought them to a crooked hallway and, eventually, a small, grim room where rats feasted on the remnants of past intruders.

Undeterred, they continued, entering another chamber. Here, they encountered a remarkable sight: a rock, roughly two feet in dimension, hovered in the center of the room within an anti-gravity cylinder. Kiertan, with a mix of curiosity and bravado, lifted Bara Dume, the nimble halfling of their group, towards the floating stone.

Bara leaned in, pushed the rock from its invisible perch, and it clattered to the ground. In a comical mishap, Bara lost his balance, and Kiertan couldn’t catch him in time. Bara found himself floating upside down in the cylinder, much to the amusement and concern of his companions.

Using his quick thinking and magical resources, Bara retreated into his magic ring, which granted him genie-like powers. Kiertan, reaching into the cylinder, managed to retrieve the ring, and with a bit of effort, Bara was restored to his usual, albeit somewhat disoriented, state.

Their adventure continued as they ventured into a large, quarried chamber dominated by a statue of a petrified dwarf standing before an altar. Surrounding the altar was a meticulously arranged circle of gravel, within which lay offerings from those who called themselves the Believers.

Driven by a mixture of curiosity and the allure of treasure, they began to investigate the offerings. Amongst the trinkets and baubles, they discovered a magic dagger inscribed with the name “Rever.” Speaking the name caused the dagger to glow with an ethereal light, a light that could only be quenched by repeating its name.

Their marvel at this discovery was abruptly cut short as they were ambushed by a group of bandits known as the “Bringers of Woe.” These five assailants, though fierce and determined, were no match for the skill and unity of Bara’s Marauders. The battle was intense and chaotic, but in the end, the adventurers stood victorious amongst their fallen foes.

As they caught their breath, the significance of their surroundings began to sink in. They realized they had stumbled upon a secret that went far beyond a simple quarry or a band of local cultists. They were standing at the precipice of an ancient mystery, one that promised to lead them further into the shadows of history and magic.

The adventure of Bara’s Marauders in the Tomb of the Moving Stones had only just begun.
NPC: Elak Dornen

February 29th, 2024

Elak Dornen, a master craftsman whose name is synonymous with the art of stone, hails from a lineage steeped in the craft. Born under the towering cliffs of the Granite Peaks, his destiny was carved from the very material that surrounded him. From a young age, Elak demonstrated an unparalleled affinity for stone, sensing the life and stories hidden within each block.

His early years were spent in the quarries alongside his kin, where he learned to listen to the whispers of the earth, discerning the secrets held by the ancient stones. It wasn’t long before his natural talent and relentless dedication set him apart. Elak’s hands, guided by intuition and honed by practice, could shape the most obstinate stone into marvels of art and function.

Driven by a vision to elevate stonecraft beyond mere utility, Elak ventured beyond the familiar confines of his home. His travels across the realms exposed him to a myriad of cultures and techniques, enriching his craft with the diversity of the world’s beauty and wisdom. With each journey, he collected rare stones, exotic minerals, and the friendship of fellow artisans, weaving a tapestry of connections bound by respect and admiration.

In the heart of a bustling city, where the roads of many travelers cross, Elak established Dornen Finestone. More than a shop, it became a sanctuary for those who sought the extraordinary. The office, adorned with intricate stonework that tells tales of far-off lands and ancient legends, serves as the nexus for his operations and collaborations. Here, Elak consults with clients ranging from noble architects designing grand palaces to humble townsfolk in need of enduring hearths.

Elak’s creations are not merely objects of beauty; they are imbued with magic, a testament to his belief that every stone holds power. His work includes the famed Starlight Pavilion, where the stones glow with captured starlight, and the Whispering Wall, which carries messages across vast distances for those who know how to listen.

As the proprietor of Dornen Finestone, Elak Dornen stands as a pillar of the community, his craftsmanship a bridge between the earth’s raw beauty and the aspirations of civilization. His legacy is etched not only in stone but in the hearts of those who witness his work, a timeless tribute to the symbiosis of nature and artistry.
Adventurers return to Red Larch

February 29th, 2024

Upon their return to Red Larch, Bara’s Marauders sought the familiar comforts of the Swinging Sword Inn, a beacon of rest for weary travelers and adventurers alike. Their journey had been fruitful, and it was time to reap the rewards of their daring exploits.

The following morning, with the dawn casting a soft glow over the bustling streets, the adventurers made their way to Dornren Finestone, the renowned shop and office serving the local quarry. Here, amidst the dust of stone and the sound of chisels, Bara negotiated the sale of the remaining two gemstones they had acquired. Elak Dornren, the master craftsman known for his work with the finest stones, agreed to a special commission for the party: three signet rings, one for each member. Yet, unbeknownst to the Marauders, Elak had a surprise in store. With skilled hands and a touch of arcane knowledge, he crafted three Magic Rings of the Adept Linguist, imbuing them with the power to understand and speak any language.

Armed with new treasures and magic, the party stocked up on supplies. Bara, ever practical, acquired a sturdy donkey, along with a bit and bridle, a grappling hook, silk and hemp ropes, and additional bottles of ink for mapping their journeys. Kiertan opted for a hand crossbow, adding a silent but deadly weapon to his arsenal, while Lucan chose the reliability of a light crossbow.

Elevated in spirit and experience, the Marauders celebrated their advancements to level two with a hearty meal at the Swinging Sword. Hogsback spareribs and tough skin potatoes filled their plates, a feast befitting heroes. Yet, adventure called to them even amidst the revelry. Elak had spoken of mysterious tunnels in the quarry, secrets of the earth that beckoned the brave.

As they ventured to the quarry, guided by the light of curiosity, the ground beneath them betrayed their step. Without warning, the earth opened, and they plunged into darkness, falling through a massive sinkhole into ancient tunnels carved by dwarven hands long ago.

Landing in a dark chamber, the adventurers quickly took stock of their surroundings, only to discover they were not alone. Three small children, who had been playing kickball above, had also fallen into the sinkhole. Above, anxious parents called out, lowering ropes in desperate attempts to rescue their offspring.

From above, Gulando, the faithful companion of Kiertan, rappelled down, bringing with him the party’s gear. With efficiency born of countless adventures, the Marauders set to work, helping the children to safety, their actions a testament to their heroism.

Once the children were secure, the adventurers turned their attention to the chamber they had fallen into. The room, hewn from the very heart of the earth by ancient dwarven quarrymen, whispered secrets of a bygone era. The air was thick with history, and the walls bore the marks of tools long silenced. This unexpected detour, while perilous, had unveiled a new chapter in their quest, a delve into the depths of history and mystery that lay hidden beneath Red Larch. The adventure, it seemed, was far from over.

Category: Red Larch

Bizarre Snowstorm

Constable Harbuck is a Hero

The Characters Choose a Faction