{"id":56,"date":"2018-07-01T11:59:00","date_gmt":"2018-07-01T11:59:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/141.148.246.190\/index.php\/30-3\/amateur-gods-pt-4\/"},"modified":"2022-04-19T11:32:23","modified_gmt":"2022-04-19T11:32:23","slug":"amateur-gods-pt-4","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.alexisveenendaal.com\/index.php\/2018\/07\/01\/amateur-gods-pt-4\/","title":{"rendered":"Amateur Gods Pt. 4"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Wizards and Wise Cracks<\/span><\/h3>\n
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The five companions explored every room in Cragmaw castle it seemed, but had yet to find the captured Dwarf, Gundren. They pushed through dozens of doors that led to empty storage rooms, bunkers, and more hallways. A few of them even partook in some Dwarven brandy they had discovered abandoned in large oaken barrels. Falkrunn could not pass up a taste (or perhaps a goblet) of some of her people\u2019s finest, and the slight buzz that filled her head made her worries melt somewhat. <\/span><\/p>\n

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The castle seemed an endless maze, and Falkrunn couldn\u2019t recall where they had started. They had been in the castle for nearly an hour and she could sense the last of her disguise spell slowly draining away. Another fifteen minutes, and she would look a Dwarf again.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Lorskan led the way, pushing through yet another door.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Four Hobgoblins sat in a circle on the ground, tossing rocks and pushing pieces around on a board. It appeared to be some kind of roleplaying game\u2014these creatures were truly quite abnormal. They were so engrossed in their game that they didn’t notice as the five companions entered the room. The new arrivals acted quickly.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Olara notched an arrow and released it without hesitation. It hit her target in the back of the neck and he fell forward onto their game, scattering pieces in every direction. The others looked up in surprise, and quickly stumbled to their feet. Lorskan ran up with his sword drawn, but his target dodged his blow. Falkrunn drew out her longsword and went after the Hobgoblin nearest her, but he managed to jump out of her reach and pull a sword off a rack on the wall. Metal clanged against metal as the fight began.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Another Hobgoblin reached the rack and drew up a Morningstar, raising the massive spiked club at the others in the doorway. He rushed forward but tripped over the fallen Hobgoblin, and his Morningstar went crashing into the open door, burying itself in the thick wood. He howled and tried to break it free and Keyzana took advantage of the opening and hacked through his arm with her longsword. The Hobgoblin fell back, abandoning his Morningstar and staring in shock at his missing arm and the sudden cascade of thick red blood. Flavio took up his warhammer and brought it around to crash into the middle of the Hobgoblin\u2019s chest, crushing bone and knocking him to the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The final Hobgoblin had taken up a longbow and shot a barbed arrow into Lorskan\u2019s side, hitting him between the soft parts of his armour. Lorskan staggered back and Olara shot the archer, who was left bleeding from his shoulder, but alive and cursing in his own guttural tongue. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Lorskan hit the wall and slid down it, unconscious, a gaping wound open in his side. Falkrunn raised her hand and spoke a word of healing, which stitched flesh and scales back together. Then, with her longsword in hand, the Dwarf renewed her attack on the Hobgoblin wielding the sword. He left a gap in his defense and she ducked through his open swing and slashed his hamstring, forcing him to drop his weapon and fall heavily to the floor, wailing in pain. She turned to the sound of a loud, twanging snap<\/em> and saw the Hobgoblin with the longbow had broken his bowstring while trying to loose an arrow at her. His arrow clattering uselessly to the floor and he scrambled to find a new weapon. The Hobgoblin on the ground cried through his pain and shouted \u201chelp! Help! Intruders!\u201d He reached out for his sword but Falkrunn stomped on his hand before he could grab it, and she felt the crunch of tiny bones beneath her boot.<\/span><\/p>\n

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In the mess of blood, shouts and flying weapons, Keyzana strode forward with a huge swing and drove her longsword down over the top of the archer\u2019s head, splitting the skull down the middle. Flavio used his warhammer to silence the one Falkrunn was standing over, and the room was suddenly quiet again.<\/span><\/p>\n

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There was a hissing sound and the smell of burnt flesh as Keyzana branded a sigil from her ring into the face of her downed enemy. Falkrunn rubbed her blade clean and looked over at Lorskan, who was still unconscious. There was a momentary flicker in her mind that perhaps they should leave the Dragonborn behind. He may be their ally now, but she doubted he valued loyalty. The Dragonborn were seldom liked or trusted in these parts for good reason.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Flavio looked over at Lorskan as well, and with an impatient sigh he strolled up to the Dragonborn and slapped a heavy hand down over Lorskan\u2019s face, then prayed a healing spell over him. Lorskan stirred awake moments later, and Flavio stood up and brushed off, looking satisfied with himself. The Dragonborn sniffed and rubbed his nose.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Olara stood at the weapons rack and inspected the various objects, picking up a longsword and eyeing its sharp edge with a pleased glint in her eyes. There were indistinguishable runes written on the blade. She turned her head from side to side and reached over to a nearby table to grab a sheath, then began strapping the weapon to her hip.<\/span><\/p>\n

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They checked the bodies for anything of use but found nothing. Falkrunn moved to the opposite door they had yet to explore and threw it open, stepping through with Keyzana at her side.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Two tiny goblins peered around the corner of the hallway with bows raised, arrows drawn, and arms shaking. They were terrified.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cHey. Hi!\u201d Falkrunn said as calmly as she could with raised hands, still appearing to be a goblin and using her golbin-esk voice. \u201cNothing to be afraid of here. We were supposed to bring a message to King Grol, but we can\u2019t seem to find\u2014\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Lorskan rushed ahead and gutted one of the goblins, skewering him on his blade. The second goblin dropped his bow and with a terrified shriek ran straight out the front entrance and outside. It seemed that they had come full circle through the castle and were now back at the beginning. Before he could be slowed, Lorskan pounded after the escaping goblin and released a powerful strike of magic against him. The goblin dodged around the broken doors and disappeared.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWe\u2019re lost,\u201d Falkrunn swore, slapping her palm against the wooden doorframe. \u201cWe could have asked that goblin where to go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Lorskan returned with a shrug and pushed between her and Keyzana. Olara and Flavio emerged from the room cautiously, watching the Dragonborn leave. The four companions looked at each other, then followed resignedly.<\/span><\/p>\n

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They were back to the barracks on the opposite side of the castle, near where the owlbear had escaped earlier. Falkrunn threw her hands up in the air in frustration. \u201cWe need to find my uncle. We don\u2019t even know if he\u2019s still\u2014if he\u2019s still alive.\u201d Her voice broke.<\/span><\/p>\n

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As if on cue, there was a loud clatter and the sounds of scuffling. Then, a low, growling voice broke through. A voice that Falkrunn recognized.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Uncle!<\/em> she thought hopefully, leaping towards the sound. It came from the room with the shattered door. \u201cGet. Away. From. ME! Get away!\u201d Gundren burst into the room, tripping over the broken door and pushing himself to his feet with an angry shout. He turned and, with a look of astonishment, rushed toward the group. \u201cThank the Realms<\/em> you\u2019re here! It\u2019s about time you showed up!\u201d He said, looking surprisingly healthy considering his circumstances. \u201cWhere have you been?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cHow did you know we were coming?\u201d Olara asked, stepping up to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

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“The goblins told me, of course. Come on, we need to go, now!<\/em>“<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWait a second,\u201d Keyzana said, eyeing the Dwarf suspiciously. \u201cWho were you just talking to?\u201d The Elf who looked like a Bugbear strode towards the room from which Gundren had just escaped.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Gundren reached out a hand and grabbed Keyzana as she passed him. Keyzana looked down at the fingers firmly grasping her forearm, her face instantly gone cold. She tried to pull away from him, but he held tightly. \u201cThere\u2019s no time,\u201d the Dwarf warned, his voice growing dark. \u201cWe need to RUN!\u201d He bellowed the last word, and Keyzana blinked once.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWhy? Who\u2019s in there?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cHobgoblins!\u201d Gundren answered, looking extremely anxious.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWhy haven\u2019t they come out, Uncle?\u201d Falkrunn asked, examining the Dwarf more closely.<\/span><\/p>\n

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In the momentary distraction, Keyzana released her hawk in a flash of light, and the hawk dove through the doorway.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cNO!\u201d Gundren shouted furiously, releasing the Elf.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Lorskan grabbed the Dwarf roughly by the throat and pressed him against the wall, lifting him off his feet.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWait!\u201d Falkrunn cried, unsure.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The would-be Gundren gulped for air, his face turning red, then purple. \u201cGive it\u201d gasp<\/em> \u201cup, Grol. They\u201d gasp<\/em> \u201chave us.\u201d Gundren\u2019s skin began to bubble and reshape itself. His legs lengthened until his toes were touching the stone floor, and his body elongated. Long, flowing white hair sprouted and his red beard receded to reveal a black-skinned elf with pointed, Elvish ears.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cDark Elf,\u201d Flavio whispered, watching in awe. \u201cA Drow.\u201d The Elf was female, and she smirked.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Lorskan did not relinquish his grip on her neck despite the transformation. He pressed his scaled fingers deep into her throat. \u201cWho are you?\u201d The Dragonborn demanded, his golden eyes piercing hers. She pressed into his grip as much as she could and hissed threateningly. Falkrunn thought he might crush her windpipe.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The interrogation was cut short by the sound of a low rumble from within the other room. Keyzana stepped back from the doorway, which she was about to enter. Her hawk swooped down and returned to her with a screech and disappeared.<\/span><\/p>\n

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A massive wolf stepped through the splintered door. It was as tall as Flavio. The gray wolf hunched down, raising its hackles and baring its teeth. Lorskan reached around for his sword, but the wolf moved faster. It pounced, flying through the air and knocking the Dragonborn heavily to the ground and ripping into his arm with its fangs. The doppelg\u00e4nger dropped and rolled out of the way, leaping to her feet and bolting past the wolf.<\/span><\/p>\n

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There was a howl of rage from behind them, and Falkrunn spun around to see a massive Bugbear emerge from the curtained doorway. He wore thick, dented armour and atop his head rested a rusted circlet, indicating a crown. In one hand he held a dagger. In the other, he dragged an unconscious Dwarf. He hefted up the small body and touched the end of the dagger to Gundren\u2019s throat\u2014for this was the real Gundren, though the Dwarf had been beaten so badly and his face was so disfigured, that it was hard to distinguish features amongst the bruises and dried blood. Falkrunn thought she heard a slight groan escape his lips.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cUncle!\u201d she screamed. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cBack away!\u201d The Bugbear warned, digging the tip of the dagger into flesh, coaxing out a few drops of scarlet.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Falkrunn immediately stepped back, but kept her sword raised.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The Bugbear smiled. \u201cNobody moves, or I\u2019ll cut his throat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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With her quick Elf reflexes, Keyzana upstretched a hand and shot an acid-green arrow at King Grol, for it was indeed the king himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Grol moved quickly, ducking out of the way, and the arrow exploded on the wall behind him. Thick droplets of acid flew everywhere, splashing onto his back. There was a sizzling sound and he shrieked in agony as the acid burrowed into his skin, burning away armour and flesh as if it were mere parchment. Yet, he held his grip on Gundren. The dagger had cut a jagged line across the Dwarf\u2019s exposed throat, bleeding into his thick red beard. How much blood did Gundren have left? Was he even breathing anymore? Falkrunn moved desperately, her anger flaring to new heights.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cCurses on you, beggar King<\/em>,\u201d Falkrunn said forcefully, flowing magic through her spell of vicious mockery. She had learned the spell only a few days ago and felt this an appropriate time to use it. She released all her fury into it. \u201cYou are nothing. You are dirt<\/em>, like the royal ground you walk on.\u201d She stepped forward, feeling as though she towered over him, though he was at least four feet taller than she in her goblin disguise. \u201cWhat kind of name is Grol<\/em> anyways? It seems your mother was as stupid as she was obese.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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The spell took effect immediately, overwhelming the Bugbear with intense feelings. King Grol dropped Gundren, dagger still in hand, and fell to his knees, tears in his black eyes. He began to blubber uncontrollably, and Falkrunn laughed scornfully. Behind her she could hear Olara attacking the Drow, and she looked back to see the dark Elf\u2019s fist ripple through the air and strike Olara, blasting her off her feet. The Drow turned and sprinted for the curtain, leaping over both King Grol and the fallen Gundren and disappearing behind the curtain.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Seeing Flavio readying a spell, Falkrunn quickly pulled out her flute and released her bardic inspiration to the human, filling him with extra power.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Flavio sent a magically guided bolt at Grol and it pierced the King\u2019s hand, sending his dagger spinning through the air and landing across the room. The King folded his arms into himself, holding his wound to his chest. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Meanwhile, Lorskan fought against the wolf, which still stood over him, barring his escape and dripping saliva. The Dragonborn managed to wrestle his arms around the wolf\u2019s neck and twisted it around until he had it pinned. The victory was short-lived, however. The wolf broke free and sunk its teeth into Lorskan\u2019s other arm, then pranced away. It seemed it had crushed its paw, for it favoured one as it stepped back. Wolf and Dragonborn circled one another, seemingly oblivious to everyone else in the room. The wolf growled, and Lorskan roared back at him in a ferocious bellow. The wolf\u2019s ears dropped back and his tail lowered. He whimpered and backed off, intimidated.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Falkrunn inched forward, hoping to cut down the King whilst he was distracted. The King noticed her movement and dove at Gundren\u2019s unmoving body, picking it up into the air and throwing it against a nearby wall. There was a sickening crunch as Falkrunn\u2019s uncle hit stone. NO! <\/em>She ran to him, ignoring the King. Ignoring everyone else but Gundren. Before she could reach him, the Drow burst again through the curtains and drove a knife through Gundren\u2019s heart. She barely stopped moving as she leaped again and ran through the opposite doorway.<\/span><\/p>\n

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That was it. How could she save him now? He was gone. He must be. His heart had stopped. Hers had filled with despair. Why. Why did I take so long? Why was I too weak? Why, why, why\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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Grol had picked up a Morningstar and ran to his wolf\u2019s side. The fighting continued, but Falkrunn barely registered any of it. She held her hand over Gundren\u2019s chest and spoke a word of healing. She waited with bated breath.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Waited. Waited.<\/span><\/p>\n

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There! <\/em>A faint heartbeat. Colour was returning to his stoic face. He was alive.<\/span><\/p>\n

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She looked up, setting Gundren\u2019s head gently on the ground.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Keyzana had speared Grol with three magic missiles, which stuck from his acid-burnt back like raised quills on a porcupine. He stumbled to one knee as a fresh arrow sprung through the side of his neck, releasing a spurt of blood and a gargle of pain. Olara lowered her shortbow, surveying the damage, expressionless.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Falkrunn ran to the kneeling Bugbear. She kicked him heavily in the chest, knocking him to the ground, then leaped onto his chest and pressed her longsword against the skin of his bleeding neck. \u201cWhy did you take the Dwarf?\u201d She demanded, barely restraining her anger.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The bleeding King laughed, spitting up more blood and nearly choking on it. His arms just held her blade back, sparing him a few more moments of life.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Flavio pared up and took a golf swing at the Bugbear\u2019s head (or, at least it seemed to be aimed in that direction), but completely missed and tripped over his own feet. He rubbed his backside, muttering that he was \u201cnever good at the game, anyway.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Keyzana ignored the human and went to kneel beside Falkrunn, looking down at the pitiful King. \u201cWhere is the Black Spider?\u201d she hissed.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Grol coughed up more blood, and she held her blade directly over one of his eyes. \u201cW-wave Echo Cave.\u201d He coughed again.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWhat is he?\u201d She asked slowly.<\/span><\/p>\n

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After some hesitation, the King groaned and, frothing blood, said, \u201che is a man. But, you\u2019re too late,\u201d he smiled through gritted red teeth. \u201cGlasstaff is on his way back as we,\u201d cough <\/em>\u201cspeak. He will slaughter you all.\u201d He opened his mouth in silent laughter.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Keyzana raised her blade slightly, then drove it through the King\u2019s open mouth. His black eyes went lifeless, and the rusted crown fell with a clang to the floor. Falkrunn fell back, exhausted. Her hands shook as she replaced her longsword and crawled back to her uncle to check on him. Olara had her hands pressed over the wound in his chest, which still bled.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Flavio cast a spell and the closed curtain flew open and remained that way. \u201cNo more surpises!\u201d He declared, nodding to himself. It seemed the wolf had disappeared with the Drow, because Lorskan now walked up to the rest of them, seeming slightly worse for wear, both arms bleeding from bite wounds. Keyzana released her hawk and sent him through the hallway to fly over the castle. With glazed eyes, she watched for a moment. When she returned, she said \u201cthe wolf is pacing the castle outside. I could hear the Drow crashing through the trees. She is gone, it seems. I doubt she will return, now that her master is dead.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cIf that was her master,\u201d Olara said quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWe need to search the rest of the castle,\u201d Keyzana told Falkrunn regretfully, looking down at the unconscious Dwarf.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cGo,\u201d Falkrunn said, \u201cI\u2019ll watch over him. I\u2014I can\u2019t leave him now.\u201d Keyzana nodded and went through the open curtains. Lorskan followed with clenched fists, dripping blood. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Gundren\u2019s eyes fluttered open and he gazed up into Falkrunn\u2019s face, looking confused. \u201cFalkrunn? Is that you, niece?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cIt is,\u201d she confirmed solemnly. \u201cHere, let me help you up.\u201d She placed an arm under him and raised him to his feet. Her goblin disguise had melted away.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The two Dwarves limped into the adjoining chamber where the other companions were searching under furniture and pulling out drawers. It was the King\u2019s chambers, and the room was horrendously grimy, and a thick, pungent smell hung in the air. \u201cThink we could open a window?\u201d Falkrunn asked lightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cThere is a map,\u201d Gundren croaked, \u201cdid you find it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWhat map is that?\u201d Falkrunn asked, easing him down into a chair.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cIt is a map of Wave Echo Cave. They stole it from me when I was captured by those foul goblins.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cThat\u2019s where the Black Spider is,\u201d Keyzana said. \u201cWe haven’t found anything, but we aren\u2019t done searching.\u201d She ripped open a wardrobe as she spoke and tore through its contents.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Falkrunn ran to the dirty mattress and pulled the stained sheets free. There was a lump beneath it. She took the dagger from her belt and buried it in the fabric, ripping a giant hole into the mattress and releasing the stench of moldy straw. She reached in and felt around until she grasped something solid and pulled it free. She held a leather sack threaded closed with a drawstring. She laid it on the bed and opened it slowly, dumping out the contents.<\/span><\/p>\n

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A pile of silver and electrum pieces jangled free, and there were also a few glass bottles filled with a thick brown liquid. Falkrunn held them out to Keyzana, who approached curiously, abandoning the wardrobe she was exploring. \u201cHealing potion,\u201d she declared after examining the bottles, \u201cmay I?\u201d Falkrunn nodded, and the Elf placed the bottles carefully in her satchel.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Something else wouldn\u2019t shake loose from the leather sack. Falkrunn reached in and pulled it out. It was a thick roll of parchment.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Excited, she unrolled it and held it up into the dim light which was cast by an overturned brazier.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cThat\u2019s it,\u201d Gundren said softly. \u201cThe map to Wave Echo Cave.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cRescuing that Gnome sure was a lot of trouble,\u201d Flavio complained as he followed Lorskan through the barracks, over the corpse of the Bugbear. The human reached down and inspected the rusted crown, then tossed it aside once deciding it wasn’t valuable. Lorskan had entered the room with the splintered door, so Flavio followed him in.<\/span><\/p>\n

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They looked around the circular room, which contained an old desk and some scattered papers with lists of supplies written on them in blotched ink. Flavio searched every drawer in the desk and pocketed a few ink bottles for later use. Lorskan was searching the room as well but seemed disappointed by his findings.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cNot a very talkative fellow, are you?\u201d Flavio asked curiously as he stepped over the door and left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Lorskan grunted and followed.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The companions slept and Keyzana stood watch, her hawk left circling the skies for signs of trouble. The wolf had retreated to the forest without a trace. As she waited, the Elf flipped through her spell book, memorizing incantations she thought might be useful. She hummed softly to herself and looked up into her hawk\u2019s eyes every once-in-a-while to see if anything was amiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

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She found a few spells that drew her interest, and began reciting the words, stopping at the final invocation and storing it away for future use.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The Dragonborn\u2019s dragon-hawk Algernon was perched on a windowsill high up, surveying the forest alongside her hawk. The Dragonborn, meanwhile, snored loudly, the odd puff of smoke rising from his flared nostrils. She shivered and returned to her book.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Lorskan was untrustworthy. Flavio was harmless enough that it didn’t matter if she could trust him, but Lorskan… her instincts told her to be wary. Olara and Falkrunn seemed to be on her side.<\/span><\/p>\n

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For the sake of her own quest, she reserved her doubts to herself.<\/span><\/p>\n

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For now.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Falkrunn felt hands on her shoulder as they shook her awake. \u201cBlasting Bulette!<\/em> What is it now?\u201d she moaned, climbing out of her bedroll.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cYou sure do swear a lot, Dwarf,\u201d Keyzana told her, moving off to wake up the rest of the group. \u201cThere is a raiding party coming our way, about a mile North and moving at a quick pace,\u201d she announced to them. \u201cMy hawk has spotted at least four Hobgoblin\u2019s followed by a well-dressed man carrying a glowing staff and flanked by two massive wolves.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Falkrunn quickly tied up her bedroll and clasped it onto her pack, heaving her belongings onto her shoulders.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cGlasstaff, I presume?\u201d Flavio asked, rolling up his own bed. Keyzana nodded in affirmation. \u201cVery well. I suppose I can save you all again in this dire hour of need.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cSure,\u201d Falkrunn said, moving to her uncle and helping him up. He was still weak, and his face sported a scattering of deep purple bruises. He clutched his chest as he stood painfully and found a short sword in the corner of the bedchamber, lashing it to his side with a strip of leather. They hadn\u2019t found the rest of his belongings anywhere.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cI know what to do,\u201d Falkrunn said, nodding to herself. Before anyone could protest, she dashed out the door and ran through a side door into the brisk morning air. She barely looked down at the fallen corpse of the goblin they had captured and later shot, who lay prostrate with arms outstretched in the direction of the door, flies buzzing over his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Falkrunn rounded the corner and, heart pounding, cast a spell she had never used. It was one she had learned before leaving home and had never had use for until now. Or, perhaps she had been too afraid to use it. She prayed to Clanggedin Silverbeard for luck as she cast Invisibility over her body. She felt a cold sensation spread through her limbs and, when she looked down, she couldn\u2019t see her own body. She felt suddenly dizzy, and leaned back against the castle wall, taking a few deep breaths with closed eyes. Then, shaking herself, she pushed off from the wall and ran.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Gundren limped after the others as they ran for the front entrance of the castle. His chest ached with every breath, and it took all his strength to push forward. Though the others outpaced him, he soon found where they stood. The towering Dragonborn took up the entrance, longbow drawn. The two Elves were on the stairs leading up to the tower room, and the human was puffing up the steps after them. Gundren followed, holding a stitch in his side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He was nearly to the top when suddenly there was a deep, thundering boom that echoed through the castle walls, shaking the floors and causing loose stones to crash to the ground in a wave of dust. \u201cWhat in the Nine Hells of Baator was that?\u201d He shouted at no one in particular, nearly losing his footing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Wolves howled just outside, and Gundren raced up the stairs, his wounds momentarily forgotten.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n

Falkrunn stood outside, invisible, near the castle entrance. Marching towards the door was the raiding party Keyzana had described. Okay,<\/em> she thought desperately, surveying the group for weaknesses, to get to the wizard, I need to take down his guards.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cTargor, it\u2019s quiet here. Too quiet. And I smell blood.\u201d Glasstaff said, stopping the group with an upraised hand. \u201cSearch the castle!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

In a moment, the Dwarf knew what she had to do. She raised both hands and released her most powerful spell: Thunderwave. A giant wave shook the ground and grew up from where she stood, exploding in a burst of thunderous sound and knocking half of the raiding party to the ground. A few maintained their balance, and threw their heads around, confused.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Falkrunn looked down at her hands, which were still standing straight out in front of her\u2026 completely visible. She dropped her arms. The lead Hobgoblin, the one called Targor, turned to her and pointed. Falkrunn raised a finger, about to say something, then thought better of it, turned on her heel, and ran for dear life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

Flavio watched curiously through the arrow loop in the upper tower as a sudden rumble shook the air and the stone itself. He looked down and saw Falkrunn standing in the open, suddenly bared to the enemy. The Dwarf looked for a second as if she were going to say something, then turned and sprinted away. \u201cRip, Snarl!\u201d The lead Hobgoblin shouted from where he now lay on the ground. \u201cAttack!\u201d The two massive wolves bolted after here with vicious, well, rips and snarls.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

How fitting,<\/em> he thought, looking around to see what everyone else was doing. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

Falkrunn felt the wolves just behind her and dropped to the ground, rolling through the grass and narrowly avoiding the snap of teeth at her neck. She leaped to her feet and the two wolves broke off her escape, standing before her, grayish-brown coats ablaze with hungry ferocity.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Falkrunn reached for her longsword and touched empty air. Panicked, she spared a glance behind her, and saw that the blade had fallen from her sheath as she rolled. It was out of reach. Very well,<\/em> she thought, calming her mind, a lullaby, then.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

In a soft, sing-song voice, she cast a sleeping spell in all directions. It rippled through the grass, invisible to all others except for her. The wolves took on dreamy expressions in their deep brown eyes moments before swaying and collapsing, fast asleep. Falkrunn felt the spell hit a Hobgoblin not far off but didn\u2019t look back. She quickly picked up her longsword and slipped it through the ribs of the nearest wolf, driving the blade into its heart. It whimpered before falling into the eternal slumber.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n

Olara shot the lead Hobgoblin in the shoulder and he pulled the shaft free as he came to his feet, shouting orders. The wizard had also been thrown feet through the air and was now regaining his footing. An arrow whizzed towards him, but he cast a blue forcefield in the nick of time, knocking it aside. Lorskan had shot the arrow, and now replaced his bow with his sword, ready for a fight.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cIt\u2019s them! It\u2019s the group we\u2019ve been looking for!\u201d Glasstaff cried, backing up. \u201cFall back to the forest and form up!\u201d Then, he cast a wordless spell and the air around him turned to mist. He disappeared in an instant, reappearing fifteen feet away. He bolted for the trees, robes swirling around him and staff held aloft. The lead Hobgoblin signaled those who were still standing, \u201cRegroup! Protect the wizard!\u201d The raiding party followed Glasstaff to the forests edge at a sprint.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cCowards!\u201d Lorskan shouted, returning his sword and taking out his bow once again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n

Keyzana sent three magic missiles at the fleeing enemy, hitting two into the lead Hobgoblin and the third into another Hobgoblin, running toward the forest after them. Olara ran too and stopped only briefly to send another arrow. The Hobgoblin she aimed for raised his shield behind him, catching it skillfully. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Flavio and Gundren appeared at Lorskan\u2019s side by the entrance, Gundren panting heavily and looking ill. \u201cWe must fight!\u201d The Dwarf declared, raising his newly found short sword.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Falkrunn burst around the castle, sword bloodied but looking unharmed herself. She spared a glance at the three of them still in the castle, then watched in dismay as the Elves chased down the party. \u201cLorskan!\u201d Falkrunn shouted, \u201cstop that wizard!\u201d Then the Dwarf took out her flute and played a few quick notes, sending her bardic inspiration to the Dragonborn. Lorskan nodded and, nocking an arrow and taking aim, he sent his arrow through the air, over the Elves heads. It planted itself into Glasstaff\u2019s leg. The wizard tumbled and rolled, then leapt to his feet and pointed his staff across the field at Lorskan. Lorskan seemed to wobble on the spot for a second as if his legs were locked, but he broke free of it and, enraged, sprinted towards the wizard. Glasstaff pulled the arrow from his leg and began limping, his companions catching up to him. Then he dove into the trees for cover. The Hobgoblins formed up around him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Keyzana and Olara had nearly caught up to them, and Keyzana dashed forward, ducking out of the way of a flying arrow, and cast a spell at the trees. It was impossible to see what her spell had done.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

Flavio turned to look down at Gundren, \u201cwell, what are you waiting for? Let\u2019s go!\u201d He pulled out his warhammer and, with a war cry, leaped over the broken stairs and rolled to his feet. Then without stopping, he ran out into the open field to stand over the sleeping Hobgoblin that had been hit by Falkrunn\u2019s sleep spell earlier. The Hobgoblin was just stirring awake, and its eyes popped open wide when it saw the human towering over it. Flavio leaned down and slipped a dagger through its armour and straight into its beating heart, making a quick end of it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cThat was surprisingly nimble for a human!\u201d Gundren praised him, running up to where he crouched. \u201cGood work\u2014Flavio, was it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Flavio nodded, wiping off his stained dagger in the grass. \u201cThat\u2019s right!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get the rest of them!\u201d Gundren said, raising his sword above his head. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Dwarf and human raced for the trees, where their companions stood off against one lone Hobgoblin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

\u201cYou got us! We give up!\u201d The Hobgoblin said, stepping from the trees with his arms raised in surrender.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Keyzana surged forward and tackled him to the ground, and the Hobgoblin did not resist as she pulled out a length of rope and tied him up, lashing him to the nearest tree. \u201cWe\u2019ll deal with this one later,\u201d she told Olara, and the Elf nodded in agreement, drawing her newly acquired longsword.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Lorskan pushed past both the Elves and tore through the air with his sword, decapitating the bound Hobgoblin in an instant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWhy did you do that?\u201d Keyzana demanded angrily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t need prisoners,\u201d Lorskan said simply, scanning the trees for the others.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cHe surrendered,\u201d Keyzana told him, ripping her ropes off the now headless body.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

There was the sound of soft snoring coming from behind a bush, and Keyzana walked over to it, peering over. There was a black-haired, white-robed wizard, fast asleep from her sleeping spell. She smiled despite herself and moved to tie him with her blood-stained rope.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

Lorskan quickly dispatched of the other Hobgoblins, who were also caught in a deep slumber. Keyzana took the wizard\u2019s staff and began inspecting it as Falkrunn burst through the trees followed closely by Flavio and Gundren. \u201cGreat work,\u201d Falkrunn smiled, gesturing to the unconscious wizard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The Dwarf walked up to where he was tied and unceremoniously slapped him across the face. The wizard jumped awake, then narrowed his eyes when he looked at Falkrunn. He took a long breath and said \u201cOh, what can I do for you?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cHello wizard,\u201d Falkrunn said, leaning back casually.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cThat\u2019s Iarno Albrek to you, Dwarf,\u201d he said back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cYes, yes,\u201d Falkrunn sighed, \u201cwe already know you were once friend to Sildar and betrayed him. Good for you. Now why did you do it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWait!\u201d Flavio said, moving up to them and looking at Falkrunn pointedly. Understanding, the Dwarf moved back further and let the human cast his zone of truth over the wizard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cHmm, very clever,\u201d Glasstaff said, though he did not sound impressed. He actually sounded bored. \u201cYes, well, it\u2019s not as though I betrayed Sildar. I simply\u2014found a more profitable opportunity elsewhere.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWhat master do you serve?\u201d Keyzana asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cI serve no master but myself,\u201d the wizard replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Olara moved into his line of sight, and the wizard looked up at her in satisfied recognition. \u201cAh, Olara. How are you holding up?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cI\u2019ve had better days,\u201d the Elf replied, glaring at him with arms crossed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

They all turned to Olara in surprise and Lorskan stepped up and wrapped his forearm around her neck, pinning her and lashing a rope around her wrists. He pushed her onto her knees with his boot so she was facing Glasstaff. \u201cWhat are you doing!\u201d Keyzana cried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cYou heard him,\u201d Lorskan gestured to Glasstaff and started pacing slowly. \u201cShe knows this man.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cSo what<\/em> if she knows him? She\u2019s one of us. We don\u2019t attack our own!\u201d the Elf said furiously but did not move to untie Olara.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cShe could be working for him still,\u201d Lorskan said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Olara did not speak. Glasstaff started to chuckle, watching the dispute with interest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWe shouldn\u2019t fight amongst ourselves,\u201d Falkrunn said desperately, turning back to the wizard. \u201cHow do you know Olara?\u201d the wizard only laughed again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWe should ask Olara,\u201d Flavio said, redirecting his truth spell so it also lay upon the Elf. \u201cOlara, how do you know this wizard?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Olara did not take her gaze from Glasstaff. \u201cI worked for him, once,\u201d she said slowly, then looked up at her companions. \u201cI\u2019m not proud of what I\u2019ve done, but it\u2019s over. I seek only to redeem myself now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cRedeem,<\/em>\u201d Glasstaff said mockingly, \u201chow quaint.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWhat did you do for him?\u201d Keyzana asked her Elf-friend quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Olara dropped her gaze and said nothing, looking ashamed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cLook, we can question Olara later,\u201d Falkrunn told them, \u201cthe wizard is our priority right now. Iarno, tell me: who is the Black Spider?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The man merely smiled and did not answer. Blasted truth spell. <\/em>It compelled the speaker to tell only truths, but they could also choose to say nothing at all if strong enough. Lorskan leaned in and punched the wizard in the face, bloodying his lip. \u201cSpeak!\u201d He barked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Iarno spit out a glob of blood and said, \u201csomeone you don\u2019t want to meet.\u201d Lorskan punched him a second time, cracking the man\u2019s head against the tree. \u201cAlright!\u201d Iarno shouted, \u201che organized the Red Brands for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWhen did you last speak with him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWe do not speak<\/em> to each other,\u201d Iarno answered, looking annoyed. \u201cWe communicate through his henchmen, the Drow.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cVery well,\u201d Falkrunn stood, wiping dirt from herself. \u201cWe know where to find him. Uncle, you have the map?\u201d Gundren nodded in response.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWho did you send after me?<\/em>\u201d Olara spoke hardly above a whisper.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Glasstaff looked thoughtful for a second, then said \u201ceveryone I sent, you have killed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Olara nodded as if her suspicions had been confirmed. Glasstaff mumbled a few names, but Falkrunn had stopped listening. She was thinking about the Black Spider.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cOlara, tell us what you did for the wizard. Was it stealing? Kidnapping?\u201d Keyzana asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Olara answered and Glasstaff smiled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cHa! She was his assassin,\u201d Lorskan told them, still crouched over their captive, his bloodied knuckles resting on one knee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cI killed when I had to,\u201d the Elf said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cAre you loyal to us?\u201d Keyzana asked, kneeling next to her friend, hand on her shoulder. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Olara nodded. \u201cI am now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWell,\u201d Keyzana said after a moment, \u201cthat\u2019s all I need to hear. I still trust her more than I do you, Dragonborn. I\u2019m untying her.\u201d Falkrunn bent to help Keyzana with the knots at Olara\u2019s wrists.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cHey, so… are you guys my friends?\u201d Flavio asked, feigning casual. Falkrunn realized with a short laugh that he had extended his truth spell to all of them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cUh,\u201d Glasstaff said. \u201cNo. I am not.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cYeah, I wasn\u2019t asking you,\u201d Flavio said, folding his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Gundren leaned up and patted Flavio on the shoulder, \u201csure, friend.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cCan we kill the wizard now?\u201d Lorskan asked, gesturing in annoyance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cI guess we should,\u201d Falkrunn agreed, and Keyzana and Olara nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWait!\u201d Iarno cried, looking suddenly desperate, \u201cdon\u2019t kill me! I am a high ranking official in the council of Waterdeep. You do not want the council as your enemy. Take me back to Sildar. He will know what to do with me, and I’m sure he will pay you well for your troubles.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

It was quiet for a moment and Keyzana said, \u201cfine, but I\u2019m keeping the staff.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Lorskan raised his arm and, for the third time, punched the wizard in the head. Glasstaff\u2019s head lolled to the side, unconscious. Lorskan untied him from the tree, keeping his wrists and legs bound, and swung the wizard over one shoulder. Everyone looked at him in surprise. Lorskan shrugged, \u201cwhat? He convinced me too.\u201d Then lumbered away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Gundren unrolled the map to Wave Echo Cave. \u201cRight, then. We go to Phandalin first, then cut through here to get to the cave,\u201d he pointed to a pair of intersecting lines on the parchment. \u201cMy brothers should be somewhere near Phandalin. We will want to speak with them before we go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Keyzana whistled aloud and a few minutes later a white horse trotted up from seemingly nowhere. It snorted as it came close. \u201cAh, Caviar!\u201d The Elf said in a sing-song voice, \u201cwould you mind carrying an unconscious wizard for us?\u201d The horse snorted again, pawing the ground impatiently. \u201cRight,\u201d Keyzana nodded, smiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n

Cragmaw Castle, it turned out, was not a far journey from Phandalin. By evening, the group had arrived in the small town, which seemed to be bustling with activity. It looked much better since they had left less than a week ago. It seemed that being rid of the Red Brands had done wonders for their commerce.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

They all went to the nearest weaponry shop in search of better armour. All except Lorskan, who took Keyzana\u2019s horse and the still unconscious Glasstaff and led them to the town hall to, as he put it, \u201creturn Sildar\u2019s bane.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Falkrunn found a sturdy shield she liked and purchased it, taking it outside and polishing the wood while humming a familiar tune to herself. Olara and Keyzana came out a short time after and they all sat in silence, watching the townspeople walk by.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

I don\u2019t know who to trust anymore,<\/em> Falkrunn thought uncomfortably, taking out her whetstone and sharpening the edge of the sword. Can I even trust myself?<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cIt is done,\u201d Lorskan said as he approached the silent companions. \u201cSildar will take Iarno Albrek to the council of Waterdeep, where he will await judgement.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cThat\u2019s that, then,\u201d Gundren said, looking disappointed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

That\u2019s that,<\/em> Falkrunn thought, then began to sing a song of the Dwarves. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

\n

To be continued…<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

<\/main><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The adventurers explore Cragmaw Castle, find the missing Gundren Rockseeker, and fight the notorious Glasstaff.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":614,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"episode_type":"","audio_file":"","cover_image":"","cover_image_id":"","duration":"","filesize":"","date_recorded":"","explicit":"","block":"","filesize_raw":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[86,182,17,14,184,15,183,80],"series":[],"class_list":["post-56","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-fantasy","tag-adventure","tag-amateur-gods","tag-dnd","tag-dungeons-and-dragons","tag-faerun","tag-fantasy","tag-lost-mine-of-phandelver","tag-short-story"],"episode_featured_image":"https:\/\/blog.alexisveenendaal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Amateur-Gods-Blog-PhotosArtboard-1-copy-3.png","episode_player_image":"https:\/\/blog.alexisveenendaal.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/seriously-simple-podcasting\/assets\/images\/no-album-art.png","download_link":"","player_link":"","audio_player":false,"episode_data":{"playerMode":"dark","subscribeUrls":{"amazon":{"key":"amazon","url":"https:\/\/music.amazon.ca\/podcasts\/09c34bbc-b359-49af-a286-31830ed5634c\/short-stories","label":"Amazon","class":"amazon","icon":"amazon.png"},"apple_podcasts":{"key":"apple_podcasts","url":"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/short-stories\/id1621456328","label":"Apple Podcasts","class":"apple_podcasts","icon":"apple-podcasts.png"},"google_play":{"key":"google_play","url":"https:\/\/podcasts.google.com\/feed\/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbGV4aXN2ZWVuZW5kYWFsLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Qvc2hvcnQtc3Rvcmllcw","label":"Google Play","class":"google_play","icon":"google-play.png"},"google_podcasts":{"key":"google_podcasts","url":"https:\/\/podcasts.google.com\/feed\/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbGV4aXN2ZWVuZW5kYWFsLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Qvc2hvcnQtc3Rvcmllcw","label":"Google Podcasts","class":"google_podcasts","icon":"google-podcasts.png"},"spotify":{"key":"spotify","url":"https:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/0lcQCRs52MfYlKs35lVX4K","label":"Spotify","class":"spotify","icon":"spotify.png"},"itunes":{"key":"itunes","url":"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/short-stories\/id1621456328","label":"iTunes","class":"itunes","icon":"itunes.png"}},"rssFeedUrl":"https:\/\/blog.alexisveenendaal.com\/feed\/podcast\/default-podcast","embedCode":"

Amateur Gods Pt. 4<\/a><\/blockquote>