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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
 Posted - 09 Jan 2024 : 16:44:24
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Greetings Scribes!
So, for a long time now I've been running a campaign my group has enjoyed called Us in the Realms, which is an Isekai-style D&D game that began WAY back in 2006. If you're unfamiliar with the term Isekai, it's a common trope in anime for a protagonist to fall/portal/transported into another world or time. An English term might be Off-World or Different World. Originally, I had designed the campaign for each one of us to take the reins on DM'ing episodes/quests/sessions so we can all play - however it's turned into mostly just me running things while using a DMPC (the group is fine with this).
So I pitched the campaign concept to the crew and they thought the idea sounded like fun. Still, getting our "stats" for D&D was a bit...trickier. We ran a session zero and all of us collaborated on what we each though were our strengths, weakness, skills, quirks, etc that would go into a D&D Character. With help of a "What D&D Character Am I?" site, we ended up with our Race, Stats, and Class. Now, one might think "shouldn't you all be humans?" and while that is true, we felt it would be more fun to mix it up and play on some of our physical characteristics. The result was mostly human with a half-elf, a gold elf, and two dwarves - much to their delight as it were. With characters made and a campaign set, we started our journey into the Forgotten Realms.
To compile everything our group experienced and accomplished in the previous 16 real-life years would be an undertaking that would've taken me an insane amount of time to write. So, instead I compiled our time in the Realms up to our current events of the campaign in chronological order of similar vein to that of the wonderful and majestic History of the Forgotten Realms supplement.
I hope you enjoy reading this and the entries that are soon to follow, for our tales are a bit wacky and also very relatable considering that you too are a Terran/Earthling, something that comes up constantly in our colloquialisms and manners. Without further ado....
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jan 2024 : 17:30:42
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Prelude
Salutations reader! It is within these fine halls that I regal you with tales of exciting heroics, wondrous magics, plots of dastardly evils, and even the rumblings of a god or two. Written on the pages of this scroll, I have cataloged the deeds of a group of misfits that certainly do not fit - at least not then - into the exciting world of Abeir-Toril.
This group, which would come to be known as the Swords of the Phoenix are plunged into a realm faraway, only known as the fantasies of their own home world. By a twist of fate, they're drawn into the land of Faerûn where their actions - and inactions- have consequences. How will they fare in a place so foreign to them all? Will the wish to remain in such a dangerous place to fight the evil perils or return home to their safe, yet sedentary life of old?
Below is cast of this incorrigible crew and the chronology of this intrepid band as they forge a new path in the workings of the Forgotten Realms!
Sir Marcus (LG Male human Knight of Torm), Sir Peter (NG Male human Cleric of Lathander), Megan (LG Female gold elf Wizard), Gimlond (known as Erik on Earth; NG Male shield dwarf fighter), Mac (CN Male shield dwarf barbarian), Richard (LG Male human Paladin), Laeshic (known as James on Earth; CG Male half-moon elf Rogue), Liz (NG Female human Druid), and Darkmore (known as Tim on Earth; TN Male human Warlock). Many more characters show up and some leave, however there is a core group that remain.
1372 DR Year of Wild Magic
Mirtul 13: A group of Terrans (otherwise referred to as Earthlings) had an unfortunate accident involving a special ritual book which created a portal and transported them to the Sword Coast of Faerûn. The group, consisting of humans and -now- demi-humans, made their way to Beregost and formed the Swords of the Phoenix adventuring troupe.
Mirtul 22: Earthlings of the Swords of the Phoenix rid the surrounding woodlands of Beregost from a rampaging goblin horde and thwart a growing plot by the Zhentarim.
Mirtul 30: Traveling along the Trade Way north towards Baldur’s Gate, the Swords of the Phoenix, are waylaid by a Zhentarim war-party that is in league with cultist of Shar. They battle and win the engagement, realizing that their involvement has enmeshed themselves further into the fabric of the strange, new world.
Kythorn 15: After spending time in Baldur’s Gate, one of the members of the group (Max, [CN Shield Dwarf Barbarian 2]) starts to establish a cuisine of Earth-like food. This is a hit and soon a growing trend of something called “Beregost Wings” can be found throughout the city.
Kythorn 19: Members of the Swords of the Phoenix branch out, some looking for a way home while others consider their fate sealed and remain content to live here on Faerûn. One member, Peter [NG Male Human Clr 3 [Lathander]) travels back to Beregost and applies to the clergy of the Morninglord at the Song of Morning temple. Others apply for jobs and seek professions within the city of Baldur’s Gate.
Flamerule 2: Sir Peter is directed by Sunmaster Kelddath Ormlyr [NG Male Human Clr 5/ Morninglord 4] of Beregost to investigate the disappearances of several Lathander artifacts, including a wondrous item called the Chalice of Lathander. Sir Pete travels to Baldur’s Gate and gets the Swords of the Phoenix involved.
Flamerule 9: Uncovering yet another plot by clerics of Shar and Zhentarim, the Swords of the Phoenix are able to determine that the evil agents are attempting to gather goodly magical items and convert them to evil. This plot is thwarted and the chalice recovered.
Flamerule 12: After recovering the items of various faiths, the Swords of the Phoenix are rewarded with wealth, which they used to spend traveling about the Sword Coast – going as far north as Waterdeep. Some of the Swords, namely Laeshic (CN Male half-moon elf rog 3), Mac, and Gimlond [NG Male shield dwarf ftr 3], remain in Baldur’s Gate and create establishments. Mac creates the Busty Wench, serving what would become a unique cuisine among the Realms people of food fried in Rothè fat and seasoned with a delectable variety of spices and sauces. Gimlond creates his own smithy called Gimlonds Armory. Laeshic travels further than others, collecting a style of sword-magic and creates a dojo within the city walls.
Marpenoth 27: Nearly five months after the Earthlings have come to the Sword Coast, they’ve created a name for themselves, saving Beregost again from bandits and roving monsters. So much have they helped the town that a statue was erected in the center of town depicting their heroics.
Nightal 1: Sir Marcus (LG Male human Kng 4 [Torm]) is inducted into the knighthood of Torm in Waterdeep. Meanwhile his wife, Lady Megan (LG Female gold elf wiz 4) is admitted to the academy of the Blackstaff tower in Waterdeep and apprenticed as a Guild Wizard.
Nightal 20: Celebrating their first year in the Realms at the Busty Wench, the companions of the Swords of the Phoenix are greeted by one Khelban Blackstaff of Waterdeep. He states to them that there’s a chance for them to return to Earth, but it will take time as the pathways of magic are capricious. To get comfortable and await his signal. |
Edited by - Diffan on 09 Jan 2024 17:50:34 |
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jan 2024 : 17:38:09
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1374 DR Year of Lightning Storms
Hammer 19: It’s been almost a year and a half since the Earthlings have come to Faerûn. In that time, they’ve developed quite a bit and have become accustomed to life in this strange world to them. Having successfully created his Dojo, Laeshic has a growing fondness of the discarded youth that runs the streets of Baldur’s Gate, taking in as many street urchins as he can. However, shadowy figures want to buy out his location, which puts it in good proximity to the Docks and possible nefarious opportunities. Laeshic refuses.
Hammer 30: One of the children of Laeshic’s Dojo is kidnapped by an evil assassin named Najiic (NE Male human Calashite rog 5/ asn 3), working for the Shadow Thieves of Amn. Should Laeshic want to see the girl again, he must give over the deed to his Dojo and leave Baldur’s Gate immediately. Laeshic turns to the Swords of the Phoenix to get the girl back.
Alturiak 14: The Swords of the Phoenix fight through multiple enemies of the Shadow Thieves of Amn in an attempt to find the girl. One such lead almost hands them victory, only to have it slip through their fingers via magical teleportation. Laeshic receives a “gift” two days later – the severed finger of a child.
Alturiak 21: Following more leads, the Swords of the Phoenix are able to locate the assassin and confront him. The girl is mostly unharmed; however, it was her finger that Laeshic received. A fight ensues and the Swords' are able to finally put him to justice.
Ches 9: Megan of Waterdeep receives information regarding a large contingent of Fey’ri leading an assault on the elven city of Evereska. She implores the Swords of the Phoenix to render aid – though some reject the idea as the conflict is far enough away to not affect the Sword Coast. Sir Marcus, Sir Peter, Gimlond, and Megan offer aid.
Tarsakh 10: The Fey’ri assault on Evereska is repelled, largely due to the forces of the elves of Evermeet with Seiveril Miritar as their commander. The Swords present are thanked for their help and receive commendation from Commander Miritar for their efforts. They return to Waterdeep.
Flamerule 1: The Blackstaff informs the Swords of the Phoenix that his scrying attempts to find the correct time and dimension of their Earth have proven far more difficult than he anticipated. Two members of the Swords disembark on adventures of their own – Sir Richard (LG Male Human Pal 5) and Liz (NG Female Human Drd 6).
Marpenoth 20: On a trip from fabled Neverwinter, the Swords of the Phoenix come across a small village that appears to be plagued with a curse. Sir Marcus insists on investigating further, bringing the group to what is known as Tolstoff Keep. Here, the group discover the machination of the two Tolstoff siblings as disgraced nobles of Waterdeep attempting to get back and cause havoc in the city. Both Tolstoffs are killed and the surrounding people of the town can finally regain a sense of peace.
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jan 2024 : 17:45:01
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1375 DR Year of Risen Elfkin
The Swords of the Phoenix flourish as they obtain higher ranking positions amongst the various towns of the Sword Coast. Relocating to Waterdeep, Sir Marcus becomes sergeant at arms of the Halls of Justice. Megan begins work as a teacher in Blackstaff tower and gains full guild membership. Sir Peter takes on more responsibilities at the Lathander temple Spires of the Morning.
In Baldur’s Gate, Macs Busty Wench sees its second restaurant open in Beregost – a chain is born. Gimlonds Armory is the prime supplier of the Flaming Fist mercenary company. The mysterious Darkmore visits the Warlock’s Crypt.
1376 DR Year of the Bent Blade
A ransom note is sent to the Swords of the Phoenix in Baldur’s Gate for their former companion – Sir Richard – as he has been held captive by the clergy of Tempus for proselytizing the belief of a “one True god” and slaying heretics of his so-called Faith. The summons goes unanswered, and Sir Richard is put into prison of the Citadel of Strategic Militancy outside of Baldur’s Gate.
1377 DR Year of the Haunting
The Earthling-turned druid known as Liz travels east to the Vilhon Reach and becomes a part of the druidic faction known as the Emerald Enclave.
1378 DR Year of the Cauldron
Escaping the Citadel of Strategic Militancy, Sir Richard travels north to Luskan where he gathers poor beggars and the downtrodden, healing them in the name of his one true God. The cult of the Cross is born.
1379 DR Year of the Lost Keep
Laeshic’s Dojo falls on hard times as economic issues strike Baldur’s Gate hard, due to the continuing escalations of the Netherese. He is eventually forced to close the school; many of his students are forced once again out onto the streets, but much better prepared.
— Some thirty knights of the cult of the Cross, known by some as The Crusaders, leave the shores of the Sword Coast and sail south to Chult in an attempt to convert people and render aid to those stricken by a strange disease.
1380 DR Year of the Blazing Hand
Lady Megan aids the High Mage Araevin Teshurr in the restoration of Myth Drannor’s mythal and helps him find the hidden realm of Auseriel.
1381 DR Year of the Staring
A freak cold snap across much of northern Faerûn ruins food crops and animal foraging, nearly causing Mac’s restaurant to close. Hunger and famine run rampant, though the Swords of the Phoenix help those in need where they can. |
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jan 2024 : 17:58:38
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1382 DR Year of the Black Blazon
Conflicts in Chult result in heavy losses of Amn’s soldiers as the disease continues to run rampant among their people. Out of the thirty Crusaders who sailed there, less than a dozen survive. Sir Richard starts up a field hospital and gives aid to those who convert.
1383 DR Year of the Vindicated Warrior
Sir Marcus wins tournament champion of Waterdeep, is presented with a magical Golden Lion figurine as a reward.
— The Crusaders of the Cross are beset by warriors of Ubtao, who wish them to leave and stop their false claims and heretic beliefs. Sir Richard refuses, demands Trial by Combat with their champion – saying that his God will always protect him. Sir Richard is slain by Eshek Haram (N Male human Ftr 10) as Sir Richard’s smites fail to have any effect on the champion of Ubtao. The cult of the Cross disbands; however, the field hospital remains and the body of Sir Richard is entombed there. The location becomes a shrine for those seeking healing and redemption.
1384 DR Year of Three Streams Blooded
The events of Helm’s death at the hands of Tyr have rocked the house of the triad. Many such clerics and paladins of the respected faiths lose power and many even commit suicide rather than live with the empty feeling of loss of divine influence. Sir Marcus is asked to oversee the transfer of power from the living faithful of Tyr to those of Torm.
1385 DR Year of Blue Fire
The Swords of the Phoenix are summoned again by the Blackstaff, Khelban Arunsun, to Waterdeep. In his tower, he explains that he has found a way home for the group, however they must leave all mystical items and trinkets behind – their clothes are fine however – before venturing back to Earth. There’s no telling what sort of impact such items will have on a world that’s mostly rejected the use of magic and the world’s mystical fields could have unexplained consequences. Among those in the group, some have chosen to stay on Faerûn.
Gimlond and Mac both have successful businesses and do not want to lose the things they’ve come create over the last decade. Others, such as Liz and Sir Richard (whom they have not discerned is deceased) could not be found. Sir Marcus, Megan, Sir Pete, Darkmore, and Laeshic agree to go through the portal. The portal, located in a very elaborate mirror, opens to reveal the time and place when the group left Earth – a room inside a house with what an Earthling would call modern furnishings. Suddenly a blue surge of mystic energy can be seen on the horizon. Khelban is worried about the events unfolding and urges the group to hurry. The five of them jump into the portal as it too starts to glow with the blue mystic fire. |
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sleyvas
Skilled Spell Strategist
USA
11849 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jan 2024 : 20:43:26
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| Just a thought... have you ever thought to have them run across the kids from the D&D cartoon as NPC's? You know like Bobby with Uni... Presto the magician... |
Alavairthae, may your skill prevail
Phillip aka Sleyvas |
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jan 2024 : 21:34:55
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quote:
Originally posted by sleyvas
Just a thought... have you ever thought to have them run across the kids from the D&D cartoon as NPC's? You know like Bobby with Uni... Presto the magician...
The thought had definitely crossed my mind early on, however I didn't think the kids from the Cartoons were stuck in the Forgotten Realms. That is, despite knowing that I think it was Presto who apprenticed with Elminster? I wasn't sure if that was Canon or just some fun goofy thing added in. However, since watching D&D Honor Amongst Thieves and seeing the kids in Neverwinter well.....I might have them cross paths in the near future.
That said, I still haven't really incorporated much of the big-wig players into this campaign. They never ventured north-east enough to meet Drizzt and Co. for example and they only just got some advise from the great old one Elminster himself when we ran the campaign last. |
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Delnyn
Senior Scribe
USA
971 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jan 2024 : 23:11:30
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| Was Sir Ivan Brightflame a PC in this campaign? |
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 10 Jan 2024 : 01:52:50
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quote:
Originally posted by Delnyn
Was Sir Ivan Brightflame a PC in this campaign?
As a PC, no he wasn't present. In this particular campaigns Canon, he most likely was doing the Cormyr/Shadowdale adventure |
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 10 Jan 2024 : 11:56:34
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1479 DR Year of the Ageless One
Eleasius 4: A young group of pupils in Blackstaff tower discover an extremely old mirror, hidden in one of the closets of the upper tier of the tower. Curious to its carvings and design, they bring it to one of their professors to study. Following the runes along the side, a quick issuance of magical phrases appears to activate the
device. Abruptly the mirror swirls with an inky gray reflection and five individuals are thrown upon the floor at the teachers’ feet.
The five are none other than Sir Marcus, Megan, Sir Peter, Darkmore, and Laeshic, who appear no worse for wear. When jumping through the portal in 1385 DR, the effects of the Spellplague affected the mirror – disrupting the teleportation ritual and suspending them in animation for over a century.
Eleasius 5: Mystified by their predicament, the members of the Swords of the Phoenix attempt to reestablish themselves into Faerûnian life in and around the city of Waterdeep. Sir Peter visits the Spires of the Morning, where he learns of Lathander’s silence and the emergence of Amaunator, the old Netherese deity of the sun. Despite the change, his powers of the divine light have not diminished. Sir Marcus returns to the Halls of Justice, learning that the Triad now consists of Torm, Ilmater, and Bahamut and he starts anew as a knight in training. Megan quickly obtains an apprenticeship within Blackstaff tower as magic has changed greatly in the last century, forcing her to relearn much in the ways of the Arcane. Both Laeshic and Darkmore, feeling out of sorts in such a large city as Waterdeep, bid their farewells and travel once again south to Baldur’s Gate.
Eleint 19: Leaving for Baldur’s Gate, the trio of Earthlings leave Waterdeep to visit their friends in Baldur’s Gate. Sir Marcus, Sir Peter, and the Lady Megan travel south for the great festival of the Autumn Equinox that’s held every year in the city. They arrive two days later in Baldur’s Gate and reacquaint themselves with Mac and Gimlond, who’ve both had very successful adventures and lives in the time they have been apart. At this point, the group determines that each year after they will get together in Baldur’s Gate as a sort of joint-Earthling reunion. To commemorate the celebration, Lady Megan reveals that she is pregnant and has been since she came through the portal.
Eleint 21: While in Baldur’s Gate, Laeshic is accosted near the docks by an assassin. The attempt fails and Laeshic discovers that it’s possible one of his old students might still be alive after all this time due to the similar fighting style and tricks the assassin used. He asks the rest of the Swords’ if they’ll go on an adventure with him to uncover the truth.
Eleint 24: Following several leads in and around Baldur’s Gate, the Swords of the Phoenix discover that several ships coming into and going from Baldur’s Gate have run afoul of a dreaded pirate ship called the Much Kill. The pirate ship has been attacking merchants for the past year and only one ship has escaped, the Crimson Sprite – captained by one Lesarya (Unaligned female half-moon elf Swordmage).
Eventually the Swords of the Phoenix catch up to the captain of the Crimson Sprite and discover that she indeed is an old student, a missing finger being the tell-tale key. She hasn’t aged much due to affliction by something called a Spellscar, which has given her longevity at the cost of all a deformed left arm. She gets reacquainted with Laeshic and the Swords of the Phoenix and they all set off after catching the Much Kill and their evil pirate captain, a bugbear by the name of Captain Gnash.
Eleint 30 (Highharvestide): After nearly a week at sea, the crew of the Crimson Sprite along with the Swords of the Phoenix catch up to Captain Gnash and a daring battle takes place between the ships. All members of the crew are slain, with Captain Gnash being shoved overboard by Megan as she barreled into him and off the gang-plank. He was then consumed by dire sharks. What the troupe didn’t expect was the captured Kython in the ship’s hold, a horrible aberration that slew several of the Crimson Sprites crew. Eventually it too died and the Much Kill was scuttled to the bottom of the Trackless Sea.
Nightal 10: After three months of study, Lady Megan has reached the conclusion that the arcane mirror portal used by Khelban Blackstaff will no longer function. The magic charged within the frame had only held on due to the occupants inside and once they were released, the enchantments dissipated with them. If they ever want to reach Earth again, they’ll have to find another way.
Nightal 20 (Winter Solstice): The ‘Swords travel to the famed city of Neverwinter for an event they call the Winter Festival of Simril, in a small nearby village of Twilight Tor. There, the group is treated with lights and magic that almost give them a taste of what they once called Christmas, back on Earth. The event was a delight to the group until a small contingent of goblins, led by an Ice Troll, attempted to disrupt the festival. These threats were easily beaten back by the Swords of the Phoenix. Each member was given a Light of Simrilas a token of the town’s thanks for thwarting the attack. |
Edited by - Diffan on 10 Jan 2024 11:58:38 |
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 10 Jan 2024 : 14:41:11
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1480 DR Year of Deep-Water Drifting
Hammer 4: Megan gives birth to a beautiful half-elf girl. The child is named Rhiannon after a popular Earth song of the same name.
Alturiak 9: Sir Pete has dream-visions of a terrible event befalling the people around Elturel, as the light from the Companion appears to become corrupted, raising the thousands of buried warriors in the Fields of the Dead nearby and overrunning the city. His fears are repeated to the temple of Amanuator leaders; however, they speculate that it is just a dream.
Alturiak 19: A priest of Amanuator named Talarin Orndeir, a descendant of Daelegoth Orndeir, from the town of Berdusk is besieged by people contaminated by a deadly disease. Despite he and his small temple’s best efforts to head off the plague, over 200 people are eventually stricken ill and die. One of those who succumbed to the disease was Talarin’s wife. Despite his desperate pleas to Amaunator, she was not to be saved.
Alturiak 30: The plague that hit Berdusk eventually breaks and the people start to recover from its ravishing effects. Talarin, priest of Amaunator, falls into depression and despair – but starts to have vision from who he believes to be Amaunator to obtain the artifact known as the Crown of Horns in Waterdeep to bring back those he lost.
Tarsakh 5: Laeshic once again opens his dojo to those who wish to learn martial arts and, for substantially more coin, the shadow arts. The dojo is in the same location as the one he lost over a century ago. Within a week, his dojo is at capacity with both nobles of Baldur’s Gate and a few street urchins wishing to get out of the gutter and better themselves.
Mirtul 20: With the season moving from Greengrass to summer, the ‘Swords of the Phoenix meet in Waterdeep to attend a festival for the opening of a new temple to Silvanus. The large open-air garden has an underground spring that feeds several plots of growing fruit and vegetables throughout the glade. It was here that the ‘Swords learned one of their own – the Druid Liz – had returned to the city in search of her old adventuring company, only to discover that many had left through the portal during the Spellplague. Seeing how much nature was starved in the City of Splendors, Liz remained behind and started growing a large garden near a few disheveled buildings. Eventually the buildings would be torn down and the garden grew, gaining the attraction of all sorts of animals. The clergy of Silvanus approached Liz and – upon the agreement of the Open Lords – started the temple. A large statue dedicated to the woman who reshaped a significant part of the city stands at the center, surrounded by statues of animals and children alike.
Marpenoth 22: The cleric of Amaunator, Talarin Orndeir, arrives in Waterdeep. He seeks out and talks to several of the Lathanderite/Amaunatori clergy and starts seeking information about the Crown of Horns. |
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Delnyn
Senior Scribe
USA
971 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jan 2024 : 15:33:13
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Is Laeral impersonating a Candlekeep monk along with Alustriel at this time? If not, wait until Laeral hears about someone seeking the Crown of Horns in Waterdeep.
Were the Lights of Simrilas supposed to be homage to Tolkien's Silmarils? |
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jan 2024 : 17:06:32
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quote:
Originally posted by Delnyn
Is Laeral impersonating a Candlekeep monk along with Alustriel at this time? If not, wait until Laeral hears about someone seeking the Crown of Horns in Waterdeep.
Were the Lights of Simrilas supposed to be homage to Tolkien's Silmarils?
At this point in the campaign, Laeral was in Waterdeep - in Blackstaff Tower. And it gets worse for the one seeking the Crown of Horns. As for the festival of Simril, it's a yearly event in the Neverwinter MMO game, so I don't know how much of that is Canon and how much is borrowed from Tolkien? |
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 17 Jan 2024 : 20:04:48
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1481 DR Year of the Grinning Halfling
Hammer 30: As midwinter sets in, a rash of murders hits Waterdeep, sending the city into a panic. With the help of divination spells by Megan and Speaking with Dead by Sir Pete, the perpetrator was tracked down and brought to justice by them along with the knights of Torm, led by Sir Marcus.
Ches 19 (Spring Equinox): The equinox is especially cold, with snow and ice still sitting on many of roofs and windowpanes in the City of Splendors. It was at this time that Talarin used certain glyphs and seals he had been weaving for months to break into Blackstaff Tower and steal the Crown of Horns. With his escape route clear, the cleric is able to put considerable distance between himself and Waterdeep before anyone even knew the evil artifact was missing.
Ches 21: Sir Peter has the same dream-vision as before, The Companion spewing out a pale green light that raises the dead of Elturel and the city burning in flames. The crown is found missing as well as Talarin, for which he’s believed to be the thief. Sir Pete presses the clergy of the Spires of Morning to allow the Swords of the Phoenix to investigate.
Ches 24: A continued harsh early spring pushes the ‘Swords plans to chase after the Crown of Horns ever further back. Those in Baldur’s Gate are relatively stuck until the snows all met and the road fit for traveling again. In Waterdeep, Sir Marcus, Sir Peter, and Megan strike out towards the Western Heartlands.
Tarsakh 3: With a tenday of riding behind them, the ‘Swords finally reach the city of Elturel, the stopping point before heading to Berdusk. They’re greeted by several paladins and warriors of the Theocratic nation of Elturgard and even gain an audience with the leader of the city, the High Observer Thavius Kreeg. Despite the grandiose hospitality they received, both Sir Marcus and Sir Peter felt that the High Observer was, as the Earth saying goes: “laying it on thick.” They’re given small tours of the city and the High Observer is extremely boastful of how orderly and refined all of Elturgard is compared to the lawlessness of places, especially the cities along the Sword Coast. They speak about heading to Berdusk in search of a rogue cleric of Amaunator – one Talarin Orndeir – but are asked to say in Elturel a bit longer.
Tarsakh 4: While roaming about the city on their own, they’re approached by a young paladin named Everyn Cadway. The young warrior tells them about the strange goings on at Fort Morninglord and how the cleric they were looking for was in town not a few weeks prior. Then the fort is shut down and a barrier placed over it to deny all access. Using this information, both Sir Peter and Megan manage a way to break through the barrier with a magical scroll. This is; however, a one-way pass and they’ll have to manage another way out.
Tarsakh 6: With a day of planning the three heroes embark to break into Fort Morninglord and discover what problems have occurred since Talarin’s visit. Before breaking through the barrier, they’re met at the Fort with a contingent of paladins led by none other than the High Observer. He appears displeased with their intent and warns them to turn back. When they refuse, the High Observer sighs greatly and informs them that a significant portion of his forces were corrupted by the false cleric of Amaunator and when they gained access to the fort, they were sealed in for the town protection. The High Observer doesn’t refuse them entry and bids them good fortune on what he can only assume is a suicide mission. The scroll is used and the three ‘Swords enter the Fort. As the barrier closes behind them, The Companion turns a sickly green and the undead rise up from among the Fields of the Dead. The High Observer and his entourage are hard pressed but stave off a significant surge of undead as they ride back to Elturel in preparation of its defenses. The undead swarm on.
Tarsakh 7: A large explosion rocks the side of Fort Morninglord as the exterior wall is blown outward. The protective barrier destroyed; three triumphant heroes emerge from the gloom of the unhallowed walls of Fort Morninglord. The fallen cleric of Amaunator, Talarin, had used the Crown of Horns in order to raise up his fallen wife and those afflicted in the Fields of the Dead. After battling and defeating the undead Cleric and his risen banshee wife, the Crown was removed and placed into a special box to mostly contain the dark urgings of this evil artifact. At the time of Talarin’s demise, The Companion reverts back to his usual holy light, banishing any remaining undead within Elturel.
Tarsakh 10: After three days of a joyful festival, celebrating the towns survival of the Night of the Pale Light, the three companions of the ‘Sword prepare for the nearly six-hundred-mile trip back to Waterdeep. Before departing, however, the tower in which they were staying is attacked by a dark rider mounted upon a shadow dragon. The attack is abrupt and quick, breaking a hole into the tower’s wall. A brief fight ensued before the dark rider, later revealed to be a Shade, was able to steal back the Crown of Horns and ride off towards the Sunset Mountains.
Tarsakh 11: Realizing that the crown needs to be pursued, Sir Pete and Sir Marcus agree to track down the crown, while Megan returns to Waterdeep. Before leaving the gates of Elturel, the group is greeted by the other members of the Swords of the Phoenix. Laeshic, Mac, Gimlond, and Darkmore agree that the crown needs to be found. Other issues have been cropping up along the Sword Coast that requires their attention as well. So, Megan returns to the coast with Mac, Laeshic, and Darkmore to continue the investigation while Gimlond, Sir Pete, and Sir Marcus intent to go after the Shade.
— Approximately thirty miles north of Elturel, the air crackles with energy and a void opens up on the green plains. A loud suction noise can be heard before two humanoid life-forms spill out upon the grass. Both are humans wearing distinctive clothing from another world. Confused about their surroundings, they proceed south along the dirt road towards Elturel.
Tarsakh 13: Before venturing out of Elturel, Sir Pete, Marcus, and Gimlond are confronted by an interesting spectacle at the main gate. Two individuals appearing to wear clothes that they recognize as from Earth are arguing in what they perceive to be a terran language known as English. The three ‘Swords intervene and talk with the two Earthlings. As suspected, they too were dragged into Faerûn via the mystical book once belonging to Sir Peter. The time-jump from 1385 until 1479 DR does not seem to have affected the events on earth, where only a few years have passed since the original group’s disappearance. The two are taken into Elturel and given the explanation of what occurred to them. The individuals are known as Karl and Jesse.
Tarsakh 14: Once refitted with Faerûnian clothes and weapons, Karl and Jesse embark on the quest the ‘Swords initially intended to journey on. The group trudges though the wet and chilly conditions towards the town of Hluthvar. There, in a small inn, the group finds a priest of Oghma named Ansel Driscus. He approached the group with plea to investigate a nearby observatory called Starhaunt. He says a friend of his went there but hasn’t been heard from since and four other people have gone missing from Hluthvar, which he believes those in the observatory are responsible.
Tarsakh 15: Visiting the observatory, the ‘Swords quickly discerned that the priest was right and that the group was somehow ‘Star’ possessed. It took the ‘Swords the better part of the day to finally rid Starhaunt of the star cultist and liberate those imprisoned. Among those saved was a medium fire elemental forced to continually heat a forge under duress for decades. Gimlond freed the elemental and because of that act, the elemental agreed to become one of Gimlond’s companions. Escorting the kidnapped people back to Hluthvar, they came across Ansel Driscus again, to which he had a received a vision of a dire prophesy. It entailed the releasing of a great evil upon Faerûn and the lord of the undead would soon set foot once again on Toril. By now the ‘Swords unfortunately determined that the crown was lost to the Netherese and they turned to go home. Jesse remains in Hluthvar as he is intrigued by divine magic and eventually leaves with Ansel Driscus.
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 17 Jan 2024 : 20:16:40
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1482 DR Year of the Narthex Murders
Returning Day: On the holiday known as Returning Day in Baldur’s Gate, tragedy struck the people there. One of the leaders, Grand Duke Abdel Adrian, was attacked by a person known as Viekang. The fight resulted in both of the people’s destruction and the creation of something called the Slayer, a Bhaalspawn creature of significant destruction. For their part, Mac and Gimlond aided the town-people to safety as Laeshic and Darkmore aided other adventurers in the city in destroying the creature. This turn of events has led people to believe that Bhaal, Lord of Murder, is back.
1486 DR Year of the Nether Mountain Scrolls
A bright symbol of Amaunator shines bright upon the tallest of the spires at the Spires of Morning temple in Waterdeep. The symbol remains aloft through three whole days and nights. On the second day, another symbol burns brightly atop the second tallest spire in the east, parts obscured by the spire and shining light through the rose-colored stain-glass windows, a near perfect resemblance to the symbol of Lathander. This symbol shines for two days and nights. On the final third day, as the clergy of both Amanuatori and Lathanderites come together to settle differences and work together towards harmony, guided by the likes of Sir Peter, a third symbol forms above the smallest spire to the west. A dark, glowing “sun” that casts a long shadow upon the ground. At its center, the symbol of a skull is seen. It’s believed to be a symbol that Myrkul has once again arisen and walks Toril, but a bright future is on the horizon for Lathander has ended his silence. Some Amaunatori convert to the church of Lathander, including former Purple Dragon knight and paladin, Sir Isteval of Daggerford.
1487 DR Year of the Rune Lords Triumphant
Events transpire within the world that almost completely diminish the effects of the lingering Spellplague. Many of the Earth-Motes that dotted the landscape along the Sword Coast fell, however some remained aloft such as that in Neverwinter. Magic feels lighter and strange, but functions in a more practical way. Lady Megan of Waterdeep understands this change and admits that the effects that have sundered Toril have been mostly put back to rights.
— In the city known as Ravens Bluff, Jesse is converted into the church of Waukeen and becomes a goldeye.
1489 DR Year of the Warrior Princess
Several Shades survive the impact of the City of Shade and make their way back to the Anauroch desert with the Crown of Thorns in their grasp. They feel that Shar’s influence has finally diminished enough for them to release the essence known as Myrkul from the crown. Their plan is thwarted, however, by a small group of Shadar-Kai, who steal the crown.
— Events along the Sword Coast worsen as a cult of Tiamat grows stronger. In the north, Lord Neverember is ousted as an Open Lord of Waterdeep, from the aid of some adventurers and that of Sir Marcus and Sir Peter. Neverember flees to Neverwinter to assume the mantle of King.
1493 DR Year of the Purple Dragons
Eleint 12: The Swords of the Phoenix initially were traveling to Beregost with a caravan on a retreat when Sir Peter receives visions once again of the city of Elturel in flames, something wreaking havoc among the city once again. The vision is explained to the group and they proceed towards the town to the southeast instead. Rhiannon, Sir Marcus and Megan’s thirteen-year-old daughter, is told to proceed with the caravan as to remain clear from the danger. She agrees under protest.
— To the west of Beregost, the air crackles with energy and a void opens up on the green plains. A loud suction noise can be heard before multiple humanoids and a large metal contraption with what appears to be wheels is expunged from the void. The incident marks yet another moment when the barrier between Earth and Toril has ripped itself open and transferred people from one to the other. Two of the humanoids are human, while a third is what those on Faerûn would call, a wood elf. Unaware of what has transpired, the three strangers make acquaintances and proceed to the nearby village of Beregost.
Eleint 13: The earthlings, identified as Art, Riley, and Thomas, enter Beregost. The town is eerily quiet and desolate. Further investigation leads the unlikely trio into the path of one Viktor Kross (LN Pal/Rog, dhampyr), and a human Hunter investigating the towns recent silence. While in Beregost, they came across a young teen half-elf that had defended herself within one of the small town-houses. This was none other than Rhiannon. This led them to the discovery of a parasitic creature similar to an Aboleth feeding on the towns people. The group was able to kill the invasion and free the townsfolk. Once again, Beregost was saved.
— Afterwards, Rhiannon comes to the realization that Thomas is her grandfather from Earth and that there is a weird connection between the location of the portal each time it’s opened to the proximity of the original adventurers that entered through years ago. With this joyous news, Rhiannon decides to lead the rest of the group to her parent’s location in Elturel.
Eleint 14: The ‘Swords make it to Elturel and meet up with an old friend named Everyn Cadway, a paladin and representative of the Order of the Gauntlet within Elturel. He reveals to the group that something is wrong with the High Observer, Thavius Kreeg, and that there’s a summit he wishes the ‘Swords to attend to that could help restore some order within the city and make headway with other factions in and around the city. The group agrees and negotiations begin between the Order of the Gauntlet, the Dusk Talons, the merchant guild known as the Lion’s Den, those representing the Free City of Iriaebor, and the spellscarred warriors who’ve been thrown out of Torm’s clergy known as the Shield of Kilgrave.
— All parties had accepted a treaty when false paladins under the order of the High Observer broke in, attempting to kill or arrest all under penalty of treason. The city was then plunged into chaos and fighting with a culmination of undead and Spellplagued beasts. The group, fought their way to another known ally – an Eladrin known as Tyrangal – to aid them in their defense of the city. She knows that the High Observer is an imposter, his hand played when he ordered their arrest. Tyrangal reveals to the ‘Swords that she is really a Song Dragon in disguise to help those less fortunate in Elturel and flies the group to confront the High Observer. In truth, the real High Observer – Thavious Kreeg – has been locked away in a dungeon of the Observer’s tower and he has been portrayed by an entity known as Vacacarian, a dracolich in service of Bane. The group follows Vacacarian to a demi-plane known as the Shadowfell where he is ultimately defeated. During the battle, however, Tyrangal is also slain. The group embarks on their journey back to Elturel.
Eleint 16: The Swords of the Phoenix are about to disembark on their trip to the Sword Coast when they’re greeted by the group of Earthlings from Beregost, led by Rhiannon, at the main gates. Elturel is in shambles after the battle, but the reunion is a welcomed one. Megan reuniting with her father and the introduction of new friends of Earth marked the day a celebration in spite of the chaos around them. The group is thanked by the real High Observer, Thavious Kreeg, and the group is handsomely rewarded for their efforts. A week later, the group travels back to Waterdeep to start a new chapter.
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Edited by - Diffan on 17 Jan 2024 20:19:58 |
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Delnyn
Senior Scribe
USA
971 Posts |
Posted - 11 Feb 2024 : 23:57:21
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| I look forward to reading what the group encounters when they return to Waterdeep. Laeral won't be pleased to hear the Crown of Horns was lost to the Netherese. |
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 19 Feb 2024 : 16:46:10
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quote:
Originally posted by Delnyn
I look forward to reading what the group encounters when they return to Waterdeep. Laeral won't be pleased to hear the Crown of Horns was lost to the Netherese.
Laeral wasn't too happy, however it wasn't for lack of us trying. Neither she nor our group had any idea that the Shades wanted the Crown. So it was a complete shock to us that after we had cleansed Fort Morninglord, we'd be ambushed by a Shade on a dragon-mount. It was imparted to us that Laeral was more upset with how the crown was so easily taken by the false priest and mad with herself for letting it fall into the wrong hands. |
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Delnyn
Senior Scribe
USA
971 Posts |
Posted - 10 Dec 2024 : 22:44:18
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| Any further developments for this campaign? I really enjoyed the narration of events. |
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Diffan
Great Reader
USA
4444 Posts |
Posted - 11 Dec 2024 : 00:33:42
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Surprisingly yes. I haven't put it to much to words yet but the last entry marked the point in our adventures where we converted our characters from 4th Edition to 5th Edition.
From here, we took a hiatus as the Crown of Horns was lost in the wind - so to speak - and we had to figure out how to incorporate the newest members of our group. Some of the players by this point had left our group (married, moved away, got too busy) and we eventually had to NPC them (Laeshic, Darkmore, Jesse, Mac, and Riley).
Since then, the PCs were asked by Isteval to finally clear out Dragonspear Castle so they can have their own base of operations and that a Sanctuary of hope can be found along the Sword Coast.
That's when they received the visions. Orcus was putting his plan into motion. |
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Delnyn
Senior Scribe
USA
971 Posts |
Posted - 13 Dec 2024 : 01:23:49
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| I can relate to players leaving the campaign because of real world issues. |
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Us in the Realms Campaign
