Well, the newest session has rolled around, and the players are about the enter the crisis that is Chapter 3 of this adventure. I hope that you all enjoy.
Once more, we were missing a couple people, it seems that my game is much more a rotating cast of characters heh. Nevertheless, Frritz and Tsunami were off completing Force Gray and Harper missions respectively, but that meant that the group still had:
Banjo, a Ghostwise Halfling Druid who was raised by Stout Halfling Folk and is always concerned about his appearance given his strange ghostwise nature.
Goose, a bardic traveler from far away who had gotten lost due to the fact that he is illiterate.
Appotus, a Half-Elven Monk who lives outside of the law.
The Harpers are a group of spies and spellcasters concerned with the destruction of tyranny.
As the next day dawned upon the brave heroes, Goose awoke to a Paper Bird at his windowsill. It seemed that his efforts had drawn the attention of the Harpers and thus they wanted him to join them as an agent in addition to Tsunami. Luckily for him, the Bird was also enchanted so that it spoke to him, ensuring that those who couldn't read and/or were blind could understand the message. It informed him that, should he wish to join the Harpers, he should meet with someone named Uza, who apparently was being terrorized by some foul creature. The watch wasn't doing anything, as she did have a tendency to exaggerate her problems, but the Harpers owed her, therefore this was to be considered a favor. Although he didn't really want to help out some random woman, he figured that at least he was being helpful, thus he set off towards her apparent location: Felzoun's Folly.
Skeemo Weirdbottle... ally (?) of the Zhentarim
Meanwhile, Appotus, already proving his worth to the Zhentarim was asked by Davil Starsong to pick up a shipment of Potions of Mind Reading which were apparently being brewed by an associate of Davil's: Skeemo Weirdbottle. He was tasked with meeting the mad alchemist of a gnome and transport the goods to a woman waiting underneath the God Catcher, a statue near the Waterdeep Market. However, upon meeting with this Skeemo, it turns out that things were not going to be as easy as described. Skeemo needed reagents, specifically either the brain of a Half-Orc, or the confetti of a unicorn. Confused about the latter, Appotus, used to rather unsavory tasks, set off in the direction of the Dock Ward to find a half-orc...
Mielikki is the patron goddess of nature, unicorns, druids, and other nature-y beings!
Lastly, Banjo figured that he should also try his hand in aiding his faction, however, when he arrived at Phaulkonmere, he found it empty. Therefore, he instead just handled the bar, hanging with Kelso, Threestrings, and Bonnie. However, as he was managing, he happened to notice that there were a lot of crumbs all around the tavern. And yet, neither Kelso, Threestrings, nor Bonnie could find where they were coming from. It just seemed that every time that Kelso cleaned, he would find more crumbs in every nook and cranny. Lif was also silent on what was going on. Banjo was incredibly confused...
Where are all of these Gazers coming from?
As Goose headed into Felzoun's Folly, he discovered Uza... well, the more accurate statement is that he heard and then discovered her. She was bawling her eyes out to a glass of Neverwinter Nectar. Meanwhile, all of the other patrons were giving her more than a wide berth. As he consoled her, asking what's wrong she informed him that apparently a monster had been harassing her, and chasing her cat! Begrudgingly, Goose consented to search Uza's home/bookstore, apparently called Curiosity & Satisfaction. Ecstatic, Uza immediately cheered up, offering to show the way to C&S. Goose and the bookseller eventually arrived at the rickety tower which was C&S, and as Goose entered (for Uza was much too frightened to enter her home) he found... books. Towers of bookshelves were stacked upon each other to a great height, such that Goose actually had to climb up several ladders to fully investigate. However, just as he thought he was getting a sense of what was going on, he felt a sudden force shove him off the ladder! A Gazer, hidden by the mounds of books, had shot a Telekinetic eye ray towards Goose and he was unable to dodge! Forced off of the ladder, Goose shrieked and landed upon a pile of books, as he became engaged in a fight with the tiny aberration!
The Mistshore is part of the Dock Ward of Waterdeep where dilapidated ships are left to rot
Realizing that his other friends were probably going on missions of their own, Banjo decided to leave the management of the tavern in the capable hands of his staff and set out to find Appotus, who had said that he was going to the Yawning Portal Tavern. Then, just as Appotus was heading towards the Dock Ward, he happened to actually bump into Banjo (what a coincidence)! After informing him that they needed the brain of a Half-Orc, Banjo was at first a bit... concerned, but eventually, decided that Appotus was probably doing this for the right reasons and that they would find someone unsavory. Which is exactly what they did. After first running into a Half-Orc member of the guard and realizing he probably wasn't the best target, they eventually found a gritty Half-Orc with darting eyes looking around the strangely empty streets of the Dock Ward. Taking him into a side alley they ambushed him, with Banjo assisting by casting Fog Cloud so that the Half-Orc might not be able to find his way out and the overall chaos would hopefully slow down any possible watch members who were strolling around. It was bloody, but also quick, and thus, Appotus returned, head in hand, being careful to trash the body where nobody would find it, at least not for several days.
The Dungeons & Dragons world has a wide variety of cats, even some called Tressyms with wings!
Goose soon ran around, trying to dodge the eye rays of the Gazer while also trying to verbally spar with it. However, he soon found that a rather strange game, as the Gazer threw every insult back at him! It was able to perfectly mimic his voice. They seemed to be engaged in a sort of stale-mate, until suddenly, emerging in fright from a stack of books that had scattered from the Gazer's telekinetic ray, Goose realized the two were not the only ones in this bookstore! A puff of fur started running around, and immediately Goose understood that this was the cat that Uza was talking about. Striving to protect it, he climbed up one of the ladders and stabbed at the creature with his rapier, as he pierced it centrally in its eye, saving the cat and earning the thanks of the Harpers and Uza.
Who is "The Black Viper", and what could she want with these potions?
With the head intact, the "heroes" returned to Skeemo, who was overjoyed with their success and handed over the potions to them, noting that he was rather certain this was not the last that Skeemo would see of them. Slightly creeped out, they left his alchemy shop and headed towards the God Catcher in the Marketplace, where they found a hooded woman standing under the magnificent statue. She asked if they had the item, which, in the standard manner of "no-questions-asked" they indeed agreed and performed the transaction: The potions for a bit more wealth in the Zhentarim's coffers. No sooner than that, the woman vanished into the night just as quickly as she had come. With their mission completed, they returned to the Lively Spirit for a good night's sleep.
The Day of Wonders... Truly a Wonder to behold!
The heroes awoke to huge shouts and trumpets. Quickly they rushed out to discover that there was a parade going on right on their street! Automatons strolled through the streets, floats magically drifted down pathways. It was magnificent! Meanwhile, as the heroes were wandering through the streets they also happened to notice a huge float in the shape of a Diatryma. And it was manned by a strange sea captain, half-naked with a massive hat he gestured with his arms and suddenly several Diatryma "flew" (more like fell with style) from his hands, resulting in the great crying and cheering of the crowd. He even had a unicorn that... shot rainbow confetti from its butt (Appotus suddenly grew very upset with this fact)! As the floats passed they also saw several strange automatons, each made out of a different material, some were steel, others were small cloth beings, there was even a wooden one carved to look practically like a life-size puppet duelist! However, just as the parade had passed out of sight the heroes heard an explosion from behind them!
At low levels, fireballs can be insanely deadly! Even the minimum damage is enough to kill a commoner outright.
As the impact of a fireball ricocheted through the street the group found the entire front-half of their tavern destroyed! Chaos soon enveloped the ally, screams pierced their eardrums, and with every passing moment everything seemed but a blur. As the heroes struggled to regain their senses, an abominable scene lay before them. Charred bodies, frozen in dust and smoke, stood. Their actions still being played like a scene out of time. Quickly, the heroes rose to their feet and struggled to find the source of this fireball and exactly what the state of their business was. Heading inside they discovered that Bonnie, Threestrings, and Kelso remained uninjured, but still everyone around was traumatized. Seizing on the inaction and utter shock that permeated every crevice of the alleyway, Banjo immediately offered free rounds for all, hoping that maybe he could bring some solace to the troubled citizens, albeit he did give them out for free, understanding that what little of the bar that was left should be used for benefiting those who needed it the most. Just as the heroes were recovering from the chaos, shrill whistles pierced the peace, the city guard had arrived.
With a shout, the guard quickly cordoned off the area, and just like that the situation seemed to be getting ten times better. Quickly sergeants began retrieving blankets for some, field medics healed wounds and treated concussions, guard members began investigating the scene, checking materials burned, victims, survivors, and witnesses. Noting this, the heroes, intrigued by the scene also decided to do some investigating for himself. Eventually, he deciphered the victims of the crime: An elderly human woman, two male humans clad in the crisp remains of charred black leather armor, cloaked, wielding two longswords, two female humans and one male half-elf in what were probably once commoner clothes, a male gnome with a scorched cloak, still clutching a white-hot dagger, two halflings who were once playing the remains of a burnt flute and fiddle, along with two male halfling dancers, slain mid-pose. However, as they were looking, Appotus noticed that one of the cloaked humans has a winged snake tattooed in black ink right on his right forearm, as he realized that this is the symbol of the Zhentarim, so the slain humans must have been Zhent agents! Meanwhile, Banjo happened to see that the somewhat-intact remains of the Gnome's cloak and boots were covered in muck and dirt, similar to what the heroes found in the sewers. However, that was when the guard began their formal investigation.
The first officer on the scene was Sergeant Saeth Cromley who began directing a sizable force of constables to begin knocking on doors, questioning witnesses, and overall analyzing the scene of the crime. The heroes were also questioned, however, being inquisitive individuals themselves, they decided to take up the investigation as well. After Sergeant Cromley posed his questions, the heroes then queried them soon after. However, Appotus was rather taken aback by the presence of the Zhentarim, so escaping unseen through the sewers, he traveled seeking answers... Nevertheless, the rest of the group went from door to door trying to figure out what happened. Firstly they asked a raving noblewoman, who apparently entered Vincent Trench's shop seeking answers for a certain husband who was spending a bit too much time at his philanthropic endeavors. She was raving about seeing some kind of wooden puppet-man with no strings. It hurled something into the crowd, and suddenly everything was fire, with several small halfling performers being incinerated before her eyes. Goose happened to notice a young halfling boy shivering, clearly scarred by the events. Bringing him some milk he walked over and knelt beside him, soothing him he eventually coaxed out of him that the boy's name was Martem Trec, and he was playing in the street, when suddenly... fire. The whole world became fire. He dived into a water barrel when suddenly a necklace fell onto his head. However, he wanted nothing to do with the foul thing as all it did was remind him of "Alden, Phoebe, Jeremy, and Wendy..." as Goose picked it up, Banjo happened to realize its true nature. This was a necklace of fireballs, each of the necklace's (normally up to nine) beads could create a fireball when thrown, and there were two beads remaining...
Lastly, they spoke to Fala Lefaliir, the owner of the greenhouse across the street who would have a clear shot of the blast. However, when they entered, they were greeted by a massive half-orc with a oversized longbow slung across his back. The man growled fiercely: "Who are you?" Only to be brought aside by Fala themself.
"Ziraj, what are you doing?" The much smaller elf demanded.
"These beings could be threats, with the fireball that just went off you should be more careful!" The intimidating tone melted away as the half-orc came under the glare of Fala.
"For the last time, I do not need protection. I am fully capable of protecting myself!" Fala imperiously bored into Ziraj with her stare.
"Yes, I know, it's just... ah... Well, if these, creatures, attack, just call. They will be slain instantly." Ziraj subsequently trudged up the stairs onto the top floor of the greenhouse.
"So... what is it you wanted?" Fala asked pleasantly. The heroes then explained their parallel investigation with the watch. Fala, willing to help shared what she had seen. Through the smoke, she just barely made out a man snatch something from the body of a dead gnome, then make his way behind the Bent Nail, badly burned and casting glances over his shoulder like he was afraid of being watched... or followed.
As Appotus hastily ran through the sewers, seeking The Yawning Portal and thus, Davil Starsong, he eventually reached his destination. Emerging, albeit smelling rather poorly, from the sewer grate he practically flew into the Yawning Portal seeking answers about the chaos that had ensued at his tavern. Upon meeting with Davil, he quickly informed him and Yagra of everything going on. However, it seemed that Davil had never actually ordered a hit on any of the dead described by Appotus, nor had he wanted to harm the heroes' tavern. Therefore, this was further evidence that the splinter force among the Zhentarim was growing stronger. Nevertheless, Davil noted that he would investigate this further, as any information he could gather on this splinter faction. Thus, he advised Appotus to return to his duties and collect more knowledge on what exactly is going on.
Meanwhile, Sergeant Cromley reported back to the heroes, gathering rather similar information. Some kind of puppet had hurled a magical device of some sort that exploded, killing civilians and members of some sort of chase headed for the heroes' establishment. However, it seemed that one of the victims escaped having stolen an item belonging to one of the other victims. However, even though there seemed to be more at stake, Cromley informed the tavern-owners that the investigation would be "confidential" and "that was all that he could tell them at the moment." In addition, Cromley's associate, Barnibus Blastwind of the Watchful Order of Magists and Protectors would be taking over the investigation as this was classified as a magical infraction. Just as he was returning to his duties though, the heroes noticed something strange... the dead bodies of the two Zhentarim agents had up and vanished... It was then when Banjo received a missive. Apparently Jeryth Phaulkon was building strength when Banjo had visited her mansion, and as a result, could only speak to him now. She informed him that strange troubles were going on at the City of the Dead, Waterdeep's graveyard and the Emerald Enclave was requested to investigate. Even though Banjo was rather... preoccupied, he still accepted the mission. Banjo did request assistance concerning his current activities however, as surely the Emerald Enclave would know something. However, while Jeryth didn't actually have any idea who could be behind such an attack, she figured that an ally of hers, Renaer Neverember, might know what's going on. Meanwhile, Barnibus called Goose over for a private conversation. As they found a more secluded area, Barnibus showed Goose a Harper pin. Realizing that they were part of the same group, recognition fell into Goose's eyes. Now that he'd shown him that, Barnibus had a favor to ask. He was trying to cast a ritual that would allow for him to speak to the departed, but it did not seem to be working on the Gnome or the strangely cloaked men... who had oddly enough just up and vanished (although he assumed they were taken in for other matters). Nevertheless, since the gnome seemed to be running in the direction of The Lively Spirit, Barnibus figured that he might speak to Goose. Putting his confidence in him as a Harper agent to report back all that occurred, he cast the spell and allowed for Goose to ask the questions.
As the interrogation went on, Goose discovered that the gnome went by the name of Dalakhar who was a spy for Lord Neverember, the rightful Open Lord of Waterdeep. Dalakhar had recovered a magical item, the Stone of Golorr, which is apparently the key to finding the money embezzled by Lord Neverember. However, he had stolen the item back from the grimy hands of the Xanathar Guild. What he only realized later, however, was that the Guild was actually dealing with the Zhentarim. Thus, when he stole the artifact, it happened that he now had multiple guilds on his tail. He was hoping to drop of the artifact with the heroes, who he had heard had rescued Lord Neverember's son from the vile clutches of the Zhentarim. Therefore, the heroes would be the people he could trust the most to house the artifact while he laid low for a while. He was right about to drop it off when the fireball went off. As Goose's five questions had then ended, he figured he had gathered all of the information needed, so he reported back to Barnibus and returned to his companions. The heroes then realized they had a couple of options: checking in with Renaer Neverember or investigating the City of the Dead. They figured that they might as well see what Renaer knew about the whole situation, as if this gnome was an agent of his fathers, he might know more.
The heroes traveled into the illustrious Sea Ward to find Renaer, eventually they found themselves standing in front of the stunning Neverember House, four stories tall and beautifully festooned. Knocking on the door, a shifty-eyed Renaer emerged from the mansion. However, he quickly brought the characters out of earshot of his dwelling, at which point he breathed an audible sigh of relief. "Too many spies around." He muttered under his breath. "Anyway, what'd you like to tell me?" They quickly informed him of how their tavern came under attack. After taking in everything that happened, he paused for a moment and then responded with his own information on the subject. It seemed that Dalakhar was originally tasked with spying on Renaer, but several tendays ago, his watchful gaze vanished. Renaer assumed that it must have been due to a vacation or something, but in reality it seemed that his father had tasked his faithful gnomish servant with retrieving the Stone of Golorr. The gnome stole it, but had the Xanathar Guild and the Zhentarim on his tail, and they were also close to catching him! He hadn't heard much after that, but he thought it likely that Dalakhar had wanted more information about them, the adventurers who had rescued him. He might have even been planning to pay the heroes for bringing the Stone of Golorr to his, as Renaer shuddered to mention, father. However, he would look into the whole event much more carefully, and he was especially intrigued to hear of the strange creature who hurled the beads from the Necklace of Fireballs. With that, he bid farewell to the heroes, glad to hear that they're being helpful in the city of Waterdeep. Meanwhile, they decided to head to the City of the Dead.
The heroes made their way into the massive graveyard of Waterdeep, known as the City of the Dead. As they entered a man in glimmering plate armor made their way up to them and introduced himself as Ambrose Everdawn, knight of Kelemvor. He quickly brought them to the scene of the crime: The grave of one Gregor Grimmsby. A plain coffin most likely once laid here, but it has been torn apart and now lies empty with dirt piled up around this. "I just found it here last night. I believe somebody is animating the dead that are interred here and that cannot stand. While I keep patrol the city, can you perchance investigate the disturbances? It would be most kind of you to do so and I'm sure that Kelemvor would smile upon such a devout act." Understanding the necromancers raising the dead is probably a bad thing, the heroes agreed and began to investigate the scene as a whole. Appotus managed to notice that tattered clothes and rotting scraps of flesh had been left behind, making it likely that whatever creature this is, it most likely has no meat on its bones. In addition, there were also scratch marks inside the coffin, meaning that its possible Mr. Grimmsby was animated before he was dug out. Banjo began getting low to the ground, investigating the dirt around the site, and discovered that there were two sets of footprints. He also realized that based on the length and stride of the creature, one of the sets was most likely similar in stature to him -- a halfling. However, the steps only seemed to travel for a couple paces before vanishing... Meanwhile, Goose, realizing that this was most likely made via some necromantic ritual, began to look around for signs. He noticed several splotches of blood still on the dirt which lead credence to the idea that this skeleton was made with the Animate Dead spell. With all of that in mind, it seemed clear that a halfling or gnomish necromancer was animating the dead, bringing them somewhere, and somehow able to make their tracks vanish. With all of that in mind, the group decided to perform a stakeout. While Ambrose patrolled the City, they would remain on watch, keeping a lookout for anyone suspicious... Thus, the first night passed.
Keeping watch, the heroes struggled to stay awake, but somehow managed to keep their heavy eyelids open. However, the night strangely passed peacefully. There was no sign at all of any possible grave robbers.Thus, the heroes decided to spend at least part of the next day resting before investigating the strange matter of the fireball further. However, when they returned to their manor they discovered that the damage from the fireball was fixed, and the tavern practically seemed in better condition than it ever had been. When questioned on what was going on, Kelso commented that "Apparently, boss, some rich couple, Cassa-whatever came by with their kids n' noticed that the tavern had been blown, so the wife, A-Male? I think that's it, boss, whispered to her man, Vic-Taro or something, said that he didn't want his 'vestments goin' to waste, so he wrote down on a paper, threw it out the window, and then left! I didn't know what was up, boss, but a couple hours later, you've got the entire fellowship of innkeepers and carpenters', roofers', and plasterers' guild showin' up right at our door. They just started fixin' the place right up boss. I don't know what happened, I really don't!" Goose, being the owner of the bar, was certainly confused, but still pleasantly surprised by the extent of the Cassalanters' generosity. However, even with the refurbishing the tavern seemed strangely empty... Kelso, Threestrings, and Bonnie were there, but there were only a couple other patrons. A sure decline from the raucous going-ons of last tenday. Nevertheless, the heroes were rather weary, so they quickly set to rest, with the exception of Appotus.
Appotus, recalling that Davil had told him to keep in touch concerning the whole procession of events with the Fireball, decided to have a quick chat at the Yawning Portal with him. However, upon entering the entrance to the Undermountain, he discovered something sinister. Yagra quickly ran up to him upon his entrance with a look of fear. "Davil. Imprisoned. Reached too far. He have this. For you. I go. I cannot stay. Too dangerous." She hastily spilled all of that information to him, and handing an elegantly sealed letter, dashed out of the inn. Bewildered by what was going on, Appotus also left the tavern, but not before looking into exactly what Davil had for him. It read:
"Dearest Appotus,
I must inform you that this information we gathered is important and for the sake of posterity I am writing it down should I fall into the hands of the enemy, either on the side of the law or not. Now, we took in the 'Zhentarim' agents that you mentioned and by Mask did we discover something. The names of these two agents were Bashekk Ortallis and Wern Malkrave. They were apparently under the employ of Urstol Floxin and resided in Gralhund Villa. I'm unsure if there is any significane of Gralhund Villa other than the fact it actually is located rather near to your own business, but Urstol Floxin is another matter. He is ruthless, and to be avoided at all costs. He brews his own poisons, having a sheath full of the stuff at almost all times. Not only that, but he was one of us. I thought he had gone dark, but apparently he's re-emerged... Although clearly not on our side. Anyway, Urstol promised them that should they chase after a gnome named Dalakhar and retrieve an artifact he was carrying, if would make them as rich as kings. Now, understand that I did advise you to avoid Urstol. However, if you are reading this letter it means I am indisposed, which means that I cannot advise you in other matters. Therefore, I'm afriad you will have to go it alone, Fang, and that could place you in the path of Urstol. Maybe you'll be lucky, maybe he's been severely injured from the blast, but in all other scenarios, to face him could result in you meeting the same fate as the men I interrogated.
Sincerely, Davil Starsong, Doom Raider"
With that information in hand, Appotus hurried back to the Tavern to rest up for their next stakeout.
As the heroes awoke, Banjo discovered a paper bird awaiting him. It seemed that the man described by Fala matches a known description of the assassin Urstol Floxin, who is also a suspected member of the Black Network. Urstol, however, is known not to work alone, generally working best as a lackey, a very effective lackey, but a lackey nonetheless. Which means that there are most likely more players than just Urstol in the game. In addition, the description of the puppet-like nature of the fireball-hurling assailant made Renaer think of Gond, and, as it turns out, Gondites had just begun distribution of the Nimblewright V. 2.78.1, a mechanical servant that seemed to match the description of the assassin. Realizing the church of Gond could provide more answers, the heroes quickly hurried to the House of Inspired Hands, the temple of Gond. However, right as they were about the enter the magnificent temple, a humanoid shape perched on the roof of the temple suddenly hurled a tiny metal sparrow, which did several loops in the air, until it eventually spiraled straight towards Goose at a frightening speed! Luckily the quick reflexes of Banjo shot it out of the air with a blast of flame, but as they turned back to find the mystery hurler, they had vanished. Deciding to instead enter the temple they quickly began to notice several inventions put on display throughout the massive entry hall. These included (but were not limited to): A 4-foot tall working model of a clock tower, a wooden flying machine with movable wings, a miniature model of a mechanical dragon turtle with a brass plate affixed to its pedestal which reads: "Big Belchy. Sank in Deepwater Harbor on the Day of Wonders in 1363 DR," a helmet affixed with small metal arms that seemed to be angled so that they could slap the wearer, and a model of a red submarine shaped like a manta ray with a brass plate affixed to its pedestal which reads: "The Scarlet Marpenoth. Lantanese submersible. Launched in 1489 DR." After the heroes had looked through all of the technological marvels, a bronze dragonborn entered the hall. "Sorry for making you wait," she apologized "is there anything that the church of Gond can do for you?" After explaining their predicament, the dragonborn shook her head. "Come, I think this could shed some light on your plight. By the way, my name is Valetta." The heroes subsequently followed Valetta to an attic trapdoor. "Hello? Nim? I'm going to open this ok? We have some people who want to talk with you." She said soothingly to the attic door. However, as she tried to key to the door... it strangely didn't work. Luckily for her, Appotus produced his trusty (and solely for legitimate purposes of course) thieves tools, picking the lock (only after making sure it was alright with Valetta of course), and as the heroes opened the door, they discovered a... workshop?
As the heroes looked around the attic they saw that it resembled a tinkerer's workshop, albeit in a sorry state. Tools had been thrown haphazardly around and wood carvings littered the floor. Bits of metal were placed on tables, and somehow some glue had found its way to the roof. Behind all of the clutter, a trembling wooden man was hiding behind a barrel. Soothingly, Valetta tried to coax it out of hiding, "Nim, you don't have to worry. These people are here and they just want to talk to you, is that ok?" Slowly, the creature left its "hidden" position and revealed itself. Quivering it made several hand gestures towards Valetta as she reported back that "Nim," for that was the creature's name, was sorry that the bird flew at the heroes. It had not intended to harm anyone. As the heroes began asking it questions with Valetta translating, they eventually discovered that Nim was lonely, and thus in order to ease that feeling, built another Nimblewright. However, it fled confused nearly a month ago and Nim hadn't seen it since. At this revelation, Valetta quickly grew angry, scolding Nim and informing the heroes that all Gond-made Nimblewrights are infused with a command code, but since Nim had made one independently, it would be able to act of its own volition. Then, Valetta turned back to Nim, and, as a punishment, boxed up each of its tools & materials, forcing it to watch while she did so. Meanwhile, Banjo happened to notice that thrown uncaringly to the floor, there was a strange one-foot long copper contraption with an umbrella-like metallic protrusion from the end. As the heroes then asked Valetta what this was, she queried (and translated) Nim. Apparently, this device was used by Nym to track the rogue Nimblewright, but it was to no avail. Valetta then realized that these heroes in front of her might be able to retrieve the rogue automaton with this device, and asked if they would be willing to track down and destroy the wayward Nimblewright, Valetta said it was important because of something called Skynet, but who knows...
The adventurers then realized that they had a stakeout to get to. As they ventured back into the City of the Dead they spent their night in wakefulness. Hours passed, but this time it was not for naught. While he was on watch, Appotus happened to notice a broom that floated in mid-air, sweeping the ground as it floated. As he quickly roused his companions they peered onwards towards the strange sight the broom seemed to drift elsewhere only to vanish and be replaced with a shovel. The shovel began to dig into the earth seemingly of its own accord when suddenly a squat halfling appeared out of nowhere. Dressed in mage robes, he produced several candles from his backpack and subsequently started to place them in a rather... specific order. Even from this sight, it became clear to Goose that this necromancer was recreating the ritual that he had uncovered earlier. All the while, the shovel continued to dig into the earth. The heroes halted, realizing that a necromancer could prove incredibly dangerous. Then, after the mage finished his ritual, a bony hand suddenly broke through the earth, as the crunch of the coffin was heard by all, a skeleton arose from the grave. Then the mage took back the shovel, tapped the skeleton lightly, took several steps forward with the skeleton and suddenly leaped into the sky... vanishing from sight. Quickly the adventurers rushed after the duo, and eventually the reached the end of the City of the Dead, but who could know where the mage had fled from there? It was at that point when Banjo happened to notice the foot trail start up again, but this time it was aimed at a lone corner-store. As the light of day began to break over the skyline, the heroes quickly hurried to the store, titled Dandymop's. However, realizing once more that confronting a powerful mage head-on was not that great of idea. Thus, they decided to scout out the joint instead. As daylight hit the small building in the Trades Ward they noticed that the owner was a halfling with strangely large amount of dirt on his boots. Realizing that some inner reconnaissance might be helpful, Banjo changed his form into that of a tiny mouse. Quickly he ducked into the shop and noticed a cellar door. Quickly the mouse-Banjo sped into the cellar, and what he saw shocked him. A group of young children dressed in mage-like raiment were hurling blasts of fire, ice, and lightning towards the same skeleton they had seen the necromancer/shopkeeper unearth! Realizing what was going on, he figured that the best thing to do would be to just check in with Jeryth. It turned out that this mage was not using undead for some evil purpose, and as necromancy is not an inherently evil action, his only real crime was disturbing the bodies of the dead, which, while severe, is nothing compared to what Jeryth had most certainly thought. With that in mind, the heroes headed back, but when they ventured into the Sea Ward, the Nimblewright Detector went off...
Thank you so much for reading this, and if you'd like to read more, feel free to support me on Patreon
Also, I used this faction guide (not mine) for this portion of the adventure.
The City Guard of Waterdeep are not to be trifled with, each possessing years of experience
With a shout, the guard quickly cordoned off the area, and just like that the situation seemed to be getting ten times better. Quickly sergeants began retrieving blankets for some, field medics healed wounds and treated concussions, guard members began investigating the scene, checking materials burned, victims, survivors, and witnesses. Noting this, the heroes, intrigued by the scene also decided to do some investigating for himself. Eventually, he deciphered the victims of the crime: An elderly human woman, two male humans clad in the crisp remains of charred black leather armor, cloaked, wielding two longswords, two female humans and one male half-elf in what were probably once commoner clothes, a male gnome with a scorched cloak, still clutching a white-hot dagger, two halflings who were once playing the remains of a burnt flute and fiddle, along with two male halfling dancers, slain mid-pose. However, as they were looking, Appotus noticed that one of the cloaked humans has a winged snake tattooed in black ink right on his right forearm, as he realized that this is the symbol of the Zhentarim, so the slain humans must have been Zhent agents! Meanwhile, Banjo happened to see that the somewhat-intact remains of the Gnome's cloak and boots were covered in muck and dirt, similar to what the heroes found in the sewers. However, that was when the guard began their formal investigation.
Saeth Cromley, sergeant in the watch
The first officer on the scene was Sergeant Saeth Cromley who began directing a sizable force of constables to begin knocking on doors, questioning witnesses, and overall analyzing the scene of the crime. The heroes were also questioned, however, being inquisitive individuals themselves, they decided to take up the investigation as well. After Sergeant Cromley posed his questions, the heroes then queried them soon after. However, Appotus was rather taken aback by the presence of the Zhentarim, so escaping unseen through the sewers, he traveled seeking answers... Nevertheless, the rest of the group went from door to door trying to figure out what happened. Firstly they asked a raving noblewoman, who apparently entered Vincent Trench's shop seeking answers for a certain husband who was spending a bit too much time at his philanthropic endeavors. She was raving about seeing some kind of wooden puppet-man with no strings. It hurled something into the crowd, and suddenly everything was fire, with several small halfling performers being incinerated before her eyes. Goose happened to notice a young halfling boy shivering, clearly scarred by the events. Bringing him some milk he walked over and knelt beside him, soothing him he eventually coaxed out of him that the boy's name was Martem Trec, and he was playing in the street, when suddenly... fire. The whole world became fire. He dived into a water barrel when suddenly a necklace fell onto his head. However, he wanted nothing to do with the foul thing as all it did was remind him of "Alden, Phoebe, Jeremy, and Wendy..." as Goose picked it up, Banjo happened to realize its true nature. This was a necklace of fireballs, each of the necklace's (normally up to nine) beads could create a fireball when thrown, and there were two beads remaining...
Who is this mysterious Ziraj, and what is his connection to Fala?
Lastly, they spoke to Fala Lefaliir, the owner of the greenhouse across the street who would have a clear shot of the blast. However, when they entered, they were greeted by a massive half-orc with a oversized longbow slung across his back. The man growled fiercely: "Who are you?" Only to be brought aside by Fala themself.
"Ziraj, what are you doing?" The much smaller elf demanded.
"These beings could be threats, with the fireball that just went off you should be more careful!" The intimidating tone melted away as the half-orc came under the glare of Fala.
"For the last time, I do not need protection. I am fully capable of protecting myself!" Fala imperiously bored into Ziraj with her stare.
"Yes, I know, it's just... ah... Well, if these, creatures, attack, just call. They will be slain instantly." Ziraj subsequently trudged up the stairs onto the top floor of the greenhouse.
"So... what is it you wanted?" Fala asked pleasantly. The heroes then explained their parallel investigation with the watch. Fala, willing to help shared what she had seen. Through the smoke, she just barely made out a man snatch something from the body of a dead gnome, then make his way behind the Bent Nail, badly burned and casting glances over his shoulder like he was afraid of being watched... or followed.
The magistrates of Waterdeep can act as judge, jury, and executioner, enacting swift justice upon ne'er-do-wells.
As Appotus hastily ran through the sewers, seeking The Yawning Portal and thus, Davil Starsong, he eventually reached his destination. Emerging, albeit smelling rather poorly, from the sewer grate he practically flew into the Yawning Portal seeking answers about the chaos that had ensued at his tavern. Upon meeting with Davil, he quickly informed him and Yagra of everything going on. However, it seemed that Davil had never actually ordered a hit on any of the dead described by Appotus, nor had he wanted to harm the heroes' tavern. Therefore, this was further evidence that the splinter force among the Zhentarim was growing stronger. Nevertheless, Davil noted that he would investigate this further, as any information he could gather on this splinter faction. Thus, he advised Appotus to return to his duties and collect more knowledge on what exactly is going on.
Barnibus Blastwind, co-head of the investigation and representative of the Watchful Order of Magists and Protectors
Meanwhile, Sergeant Cromley reported back to the heroes, gathering rather similar information. Some kind of puppet had hurled a magical device of some sort that exploded, killing civilians and members of some sort of chase headed for the heroes' establishment. However, it seemed that one of the victims escaped having stolen an item belonging to one of the other victims. However, even though there seemed to be more at stake, Cromley informed the tavern-owners that the investigation would be "confidential" and "that was all that he could tell them at the moment." In addition, Cromley's associate, Barnibus Blastwind of the Watchful Order of Magists and Protectors would be taking over the investigation as this was classified as a magical infraction. Just as he was returning to his duties though, the heroes noticed something strange... the dead bodies of the two Zhentarim agents had up and vanished... It was then when Banjo received a missive. Apparently Jeryth Phaulkon was building strength when Banjo had visited her mansion, and as a result, could only speak to him now. She informed him that strange troubles were going on at the City of the Dead, Waterdeep's graveyard and the Emerald Enclave was requested to investigate. Even though Banjo was rather... preoccupied, he still accepted the mission. Banjo did request assistance concerning his current activities however, as surely the Emerald Enclave would know something. However, while Jeryth didn't actually have any idea who could be behind such an attack, she figured that an ally of hers, Renaer Neverember, might know what's going on. Meanwhile, Barnibus called Goose over for a private conversation. As they found a more secluded area, Barnibus showed Goose a Harper pin. Realizing that they were part of the same group, recognition fell into Goose's eyes. Now that he'd shown him that, Barnibus had a favor to ask. He was trying to cast a ritual that would allow for him to speak to the departed, but it did not seem to be working on the Gnome or the strangely cloaked men... who had oddly enough just up and vanished (although he assumed they were taken in for other matters). Nevertheless, since the gnome seemed to be running in the direction of The Lively Spirit, Barnibus figured that he might speak to Goose. Putting his confidence in him as a Harper agent to report back all that occurred, he cast the spell and allowed for Goose to ask the questions.
A single dragon is roughly the daily earnings of a skilled craftsman!
As the interrogation went on, Goose discovered that the gnome went by the name of Dalakhar who was a spy for Lord Neverember, the rightful Open Lord of Waterdeep. Dalakhar had recovered a magical item, the Stone of Golorr, which is apparently the key to finding the money embezzled by Lord Neverember. However, he had stolen the item back from the grimy hands of the Xanathar Guild. What he only realized later, however, was that the Guild was actually dealing with the Zhentarim. Thus, when he stole the artifact, it happened that he now had multiple guilds on his tail. He was hoping to drop of the artifact with the heroes, who he had heard had rescued Lord Neverember's son from the vile clutches of the Zhentarim. Therefore, the heroes would be the people he could trust the most to house the artifact while he laid low for a while. He was right about to drop it off when the fireball went off. As Goose's five questions had then ended, he figured he had gathered all of the information needed, so he reported back to Barnibus and returned to his companions. The heroes then realized they had a couple of options: checking in with Renaer Neverember or investigating the City of the Dead. They figured that they might as well see what Renaer knew about the whole situation, as if this gnome was an agent of his fathers, he might know more.
Does Renaer know anything of his fathers dealings, and if so... what?
The heroes traveled into the illustrious Sea Ward to find Renaer, eventually they found themselves standing in front of the stunning Neverember House, four stories tall and beautifully festooned. Knocking on the door, a shifty-eyed Renaer emerged from the mansion. However, he quickly brought the characters out of earshot of his dwelling, at which point he breathed an audible sigh of relief. "Too many spies around." He muttered under his breath. "Anyway, what'd you like to tell me?" They quickly informed him of how their tavern came under attack. After taking in everything that happened, he paused for a moment and then responded with his own information on the subject. It seemed that Dalakhar was originally tasked with spying on Renaer, but several tendays ago, his watchful gaze vanished. Renaer assumed that it must have been due to a vacation or something, but in reality it seemed that his father had tasked his faithful gnomish servant with retrieving the Stone of Golorr. The gnome stole it, but had the Xanathar Guild and the Zhentarim on his tail, and they were also close to catching him! He hadn't heard much after that, but he thought it likely that Dalakhar had wanted more information about them, the adventurers who had rescued him. He might have even been planning to pay the heroes for bringing the Stone of Golorr to his, as Renaer shuddered to mention, father. However, he would look into the whole event much more carefully, and he was especially intrigued to hear of the strange creature who hurled the beads from the Necklace of Fireballs. With that, he bid farewell to the heroes, glad to hear that they're being helpful in the city of Waterdeep. Meanwhile, they decided to head to the City of the Dead.
The City of the Dead is no drab place for the undead to rest, and can actually be the locale of many a picnic or other joyous outing.
The heroes made their way into the massive graveyard of Waterdeep, known as the City of the Dead. As they entered a man in glimmering plate armor made their way up to them and introduced himself as Ambrose Everdawn, knight of Kelemvor. He quickly brought them to the scene of the crime: The grave of one Gregor Grimmsby. A plain coffin most likely once laid here, but it has been torn apart and now lies empty with dirt piled up around this. "I just found it here last night. I believe somebody is animating the dead that are interred here and that cannot stand. While I keep patrol the city, can you perchance investigate the disturbances? It would be most kind of you to do so and I'm sure that Kelemvor would smile upon such a devout act." Understanding the necromancers raising the dead is probably a bad thing, the heroes agreed and began to investigate the scene as a whole. Appotus managed to notice that tattered clothes and rotting scraps of flesh had been left behind, making it likely that whatever creature this is, it most likely has no meat on its bones. In addition, there were also scratch marks inside the coffin, meaning that its possible Mr. Grimmsby was animated before he was dug out. Banjo began getting low to the ground, investigating the dirt around the site, and discovered that there were two sets of footprints. He also realized that based on the length and stride of the creature, one of the sets was most likely similar in stature to him -- a halfling. However, the steps only seemed to travel for a couple paces before vanishing... Meanwhile, Goose, realizing that this was most likely made via some necromantic ritual, began to look around for signs. He noticed several splotches of blood still on the dirt which lead credence to the idea that this skeleton was made with the Animate Dead spell. With all of that in mind, it seemed clear that a halfling or gnomish necromancer was animating the dead, bringing them somewhere, and somehow able to make their tracks vanish. With all of that in mind, the group decided to perform a stakeout. While Ambrose patrolled the City, they would remain on watch, keeping a lookout for anyone suspicious... Thus, the first night passed.
House Cassalanter, the banking and investment house, and one of (if not) the richest families in Waterdeep
Keeping watch, the heroes struggled to stay awake, but somehow managed to keep their heavy eyelids open. However, the night strangely passed peacefully. There was no sign at all of any possible grave robbers.Thus, the heroes decided to spend at least part of the next day resting before investigating the strange matter of the fireball further. However, when they returned to their manor they discovered that the damage from the fireball was fixed, and the tavern practically seemed in better condition than it ever had been. When questioned on what was going on, Kelso commented that "Apparently, boss, some rich couple, Cassa-whatever came by with their kids n' noticed that the tavern had been blown, so the wife, A-Male? I think that's it, boss, whispered to her man, Vic-Taro or something, said that he didn't want his 'vestments goin' to waste, so he wrote down on a paper, threw it out the window, and then left! I didn't know what was up, boss, but a couple hours later, you've got the entire fellowship of innkeepers and carpenters', roofers', and plasterers' guild showin' up right at our door. They just started fixin' the place right up boss. I don't know what happened, I really don't!" Goose, being the owner of the bar, was certainly confused, but still pleasantly surprised by the extent of the Cassalanters' generosity. However, even with the refurbishing the tavern seemed strangely empty... Kelso, Threestrings, and Bonnie were there, but there were only a couple other patrons. A sure decline from the raucous going-ons of last tenday. Nevertheless, the heroes were rather weary, so they quickly set to rest, with the exception of Appotus.
The Castle Ward houses much of Waterdeep's legal system... including its jail.
Appotus, recalling that Davil had told him to keep in touch concerning the whole procession of events with the Fireball, decided to have a quick chat at the Yawning Portal with him. However, upon entering the entrance to the Undermountain, he discovered something sinister. Yagra quickly ran up to him upon his entrance with a look of fear. "Davil. Imprisoned. Reached too far. He have this. For you. I go. I cannot stay. Too dangerous." She hastily spilled all of that information to him, and handing an elegantly sealed letter, dashed out of the inn. Bewildered by what was going on, Appotus also left the tavern, but not before looking into exactly what Davil had for him. It read:
"Dearest Appotus,
I must inform you that this information we gathered is important and for the sake of posterity I am writing it down should I fall into the hands of the enemy, either on the side of the law or not. Now, we took in the 'Zhentarim' agents that you mentioned and by Mask did we discover something. The names of these two agents were Bashekk Ortallis and Wern Malkrave. They were apparently under the employ of Urstol Floxin and resided in Gralhund Villa. I'm unsure if there is any significane of Gralhund Villa other than the fact it actually is located rather near to your own business, but Urstol Floxin is another matter. He is ruthless, and to be avoided at all costs. He brews his own poisons, having a sheath full of the stuff at almost all times. Not only that, but he was one of us. I thought he had gone dark, but apparently he's re-emerged... Although clearly not on our side. Anyway, Urstol promised them that should they chase after a gnome named Dalakhar and retrieve an artifact he was carrying, if would make them as rich as kings. Now, understand that I did advise you to avoid Urstol. However, if you are reading this letter it means I am indisposed, which means that I cannot advise you in other matters. Therefore, I'm afriad you will have to go it alone, Fang, and that could place you in the path of Urstol. Maybe you'll be lucky, maybe he's been severely injured from the blast, but in all other scenarios, to face him could result in you meeting the same fate as the men I interrogated.
Sincerely, Davil Starsong, Doom Raider"
With that information in hand, Appotus hurried back to the Tavern to rest up for their next stakeout.
The Nimblewright is a mechanical human-sized automaton made by Gondites to function as servants and guards.
The nimblewright detector spins and whirs if a nimblewright is nearby!
As the heroes looked around the attic they saw that it resembled a tinkerer's workshop, albeit in a sorry state. Tools had been thrown haphazardly around and wood carvings littered the floor. Bits of metal were placed on tables, and somehow some glue had found its way to the roof. Behind all of the clutter, a trembling wooden man was hiding behind a barrel. Soothingly, Valetta tried to coax it out of hiding, "Nim, you don't have to worry. These people are here and they just want to talk to you, is that ok?" Slowly, the creature left its "hidden" position and revealed itself. Quivering it made several hand gestures towards Valetta as she reported back that "Nim," for that was the creature's name, was sorry that the bird flew at the heroes. It had not intended to harm anyone. As the heroes began asking it questions with Valetta translating, they eventually discovered that Nim was lonely, and thus in order to ease that feeling, built another Nimblewright. However, it fled confused nearly a month ago and Nim hadn't seen it since. At this revelation, Valetta quickly grew angry, scolding Nim and informing the heroes that all Gond-made Nimblewrights are infused with a command code, but since Nim had made one independently, it would be able to act of its own volition. Then, Valetta turned back to Nim, and, as a punishment, boxed up each of its tools & materials, forcing it to watch while she did so. Meanwhile, Banjo happened to notice that thrown uncaringly to the floor, there was a strange one-foot long copper contraption with an umbrella-like metallic protrusion from the end. As the heroes then asked Valetta what this was, she queried (and translated) Nim. Apparently, this device was used by Nym to track the rogue Nimblewright, but it was to no avail. Valetta then realized that these heroes in front of her might be able to retrieve the rogue automaton with this device, and asked if they would be willing to track down and destroy the wayward Nimblewright, Valetta said it was important because of something called Skynet, but who knows...
The skeleton is but a simple animated dead body, yet it can be a surprisingly effective combatant.
The adventurers then realized that they had a stakeout to get to. As they ventured back into the City of the Dead they spent their night in wakefulness. Hours passed, but this time it was not for naught. While he was on watch, Appotus happened to notice a broom that floated in mid-air, sweeping the ground as it floated. As he quickly roused his companions they peered onwards towards the strange sight the broom seemed to drift elsewhere only to vanish and be replaced with a shovel. The shovel began to dig into the earth seemingly of its own accord when suddenly a squat halfling appeared out of nowhere. Dressed in mage robes, he produced several candles from his backpack and subsequently started to place them in a rather... specific order. Even from this sight, it became clear to Goose that this necromancer was recreating the ritual that he had uncovered earlier. All the while, the shovel continued to dig into the earth. The heroes halted, realizing that a necromancer could prove incredibly dangerous. Then, after the mage finished his ritual, a bony hand suddenly broke through the earth, as the crunch of the coffin was heard by all, a skeleton arose from the grave. Then the mage took back the shovel, tapped the skeleton lightly, took several steps forward with the skeleton and suddenly leaped into the sky... vanishing from sight. Quickly the adventurers rushed after the duo, and eventually the reached the end of the City of the Dead, but who could know where the mage had fled from there? It was at that point when Banjo happened to notice the foot trail start up again, but this time it was aimed at a lone corner-store. As the light of day began to break over the skyline, the heroes quickly hurried to the store, titled Dandymop's. However, realizing once more that confronting a powerful mage head-on was not that great of idea. Thus, they decided to scout out the joint instead. As daylight hit the small building in the Trades Ward they noticed that the owner was a halfling with strangely large amount of dirt on his boots. Realizing that some inner reconnaissance might be helpful, Banjo changed his form into that of a tiny mouse. Quickly he ducked into the shop and noticed a cellar door. Quickly the mouse-Banjo sped into the cellar, and what he saw shocked him. A group of young children dressed in mage-like raiment were hurling blasts of fire, ice, and lightning towards the same skeleton they had seen the necromancer/shopkeeper unearth! Realizing what was going on, he figured that the best thing to do would be to just check in with Jeryth. It turned out that this mage was not using undead for some evil purpose, and as necromancy is not an inherently evil action, his only real crime was disturbing the bodies of the dead, which, while severe, is nothing compared to what Jeryth had most certainly thought. With that in mind, the heroes headed back, but when they ventured into the Sea Ward, the Nimblewright Detector went off...
Thank you so much for reading this, and if you'd like to read more, feel free to support me on Patreon
Also, I used this faction guide (not mine) for this portion of the adventure.
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