4th Notebook
177-2-19 Underdark Prisoners Captuered by Ronelis Imyl & Others
On the evening of 177-2-19, Guardsman Ronelis Imyl, and approximately half a dozen others were standing guard in front of Bendir Village, with the objective of preventing further attacks upon the settlement, of which there have recently been many.
While Standing guard, I, Ronelis, did see two suspicions figures quickly attempt to run past the village. Given that Andunorian spies had previously been spotted earlier in the evening, I sounded the alarm, and began pursuit; I was quickly joined by the other defenders of the village.
We quickly caught up with the two suspicious figures, who had both taken steps to conceal their identity - one appeared to be a Gnome, while the other appeared to be a Sun Elf. We began routine questioning, when I noticed, through the Gnome's disguise, the pin of a Drow House retainer.
While I do not know what house the pin belongs to, it can be described as a green pin, with a spider "climbing out" of it, as if emerging from the pin itself. Upon noticing this, the others and I went on high alert, and the "Sun Elf" quickly revealed themselves to be a Drow.
The Drow was recognized by one of our party, and identified as Ambrose Tanor'Thai. The went by the alias "The Rose Knight," or "Rose," and wore metallic gold-colored armor, with crimson highlights. I do not know the name of the Svirfneblin, but they were short, gray, and had glowing pink eyes, as if they were pacted.
Upon revealing themselves, the Drow and Svirfneblin were given the opportunity to surrender, and undergo interrogation in Bendir Village. I, Ronelis, was accompanied by the Elves Nastas Moonsit, Orym Umelar, and the human Exordius J'vrass, and the halfling Miatza Fuzzypaw, to the cell.
We promptly placed the prisoners in the cell - Nastas and Orym joined me inside, while Exordius and Miatza waited outside the cell. We performed a lengthy interrogation, asking for information related to the recent attacks, and when that failed, any names, Houses, or similar types of information that could be used to start lines of inquiry, scrying, or other intelligence gathering.
The prisoners refused to provide any information, despite being given numerous opportunities to do so. Eventually, the prisoners were warend that if they did not provide information, they would be summarily executed, as I believed them to be spies in an active war zone. The prisoners continued their refusal to provide information.
Accordingly, I stepped outside the cell, and requested permission to perfom the execution from Exordius and Miatza, as it was within their territory that the sentence would be carried out. They both consented. I then reentered the cell, announced the sentence, and carried out the execution.
This concluded the incident.
Signed and sealed,
Ronelis Imyl, Guardsman
Day 28, Month 2 (Alturiak), 177 AR
Anonymous
10/2/1377 DR - Mission proposal to Cordor
Structure of the mission: Kohlingen Island Scouting
Contingent: Cordor Guard, Rivorndir Warden
Individuals (add+): Adna, Ilne.
Goals:
We are seeking any objects of value to the Rune that may be brought to the island, or an officer to capture.
Summary:
An operation to scout the place, small company-sized. From the historical reports I read that they did such before, would be a good tradition to resume scouting of Gnithaethr and Kohlingen islands.
Bluntly approaching it and docking with a large force of fully warded people will most likely spook the Rune if they indeed do anything there.
The said group should also keep in mind that we need something that /talks/. We need information about the Rune's goals, we need to know what and why their activity because tangible and noticeable again.
Miscellaneous information:
Liches and some other Higher Undead have phylacteries. Losing the body does give them a setback, but also does not destroy them completely, and bounce that question with a thought of the lich not bothering being killed.
Very-very doubtful any lich of the Rune would bring a phylactery alongside, so the company needs to field at least two trained arcanists - first to counter any Teleportation attempts in the area, the second one to Counterspell anything a Lich might wish to try. Warding the area against Sight would be a good move too, naturally - so, two Abjuration specialists.
Breakdown of the approach:
> General of Cordor, or any he would deem necessary, would summon a pre-mission to debrief and instruct potential aid and participants of a possible mission on the island.
> Ilne proposes, and I agree, to approach the place from the Plane of Water instead of using a ship - tenfold more discreet.
> Assign a dedicated scout or two visiting the place through the said Plane of Water regularly, to seek anything out of the ordinary.
> As soon as the scout reports anything unusual to be found, seek out:
Flamma, Griffy, Ilne, Adna, myself, Minto, Abdiel - in that order of availability, and report what was found.
> After the report is given, those in charge of the operation assemble a team.
Note: Keep in mind the usual recommendation for keeping as least amount of wards as can safely be - sensitive arcanists who Rune's officers would most likely be, can sense them from afar.
Note: Double-check for the availability of the Abjuration masters, and others who the commander of the mission would deem necessary to achieve the goals. Just attacking with a vague idea of what to do, is not recommended - the lich or any other sort of officer or cultist can simply teleport away.
> Scout(s) go(es) first, checking the area ahead to confirm the presence of the unusual activity.
Note: Scouts should only reach the area through the usage of Potions of Attunement and Plane of Water. Ilne can show the way initially.
> Team goes according to the plan to achieve the aforementioned goals.
> Report is written about the outcome, delivered to the aforementioned individual names.
Signed,
Day 10, Month 2 (Alturiak), 177 AR
Seitera Colds
Brogendenstein Response to Myon Aggression
While in the pursuit of another, the Coronal of Myon authorised his Bladekeeper, Valtarion, to conduct an attack on the family home of a Bendirian official. This despite knowing the official was present at the time. The Bladekeeper then proceeded to lead a team to murder everyone in proximity of Myon's target - including said official of Bendir Dale.
This result was both predictable and avoidable on Myon's part. No effort was made to warn the official or to even minimise the risk to them. The official wore no wards and took no hostile action. In further insult, the bodies of all present were robbed, as were the contents of the private room they resided in; Myon has made no admission of fault, no offer of compensation, has not even agreed to return the wealth plundered.
When the Bladekeeper was confronted by another Bendirian official in Myon about this crime, the Bladekeeper promptly proceeded to murder the unwarded official in cold blood.
This is not the first time Myon has acted in such a heinous fashion. A similar incident in Guldorand some months back had similar results. Despite apologies made at the time, it is clear that no actual lesson was learned by the military forces of Myon.
The Coronal has made quite clear his position that the sovereign laws of other lands are irrelevant to him and his people. With this being the case I am forced to make the following decision, in solidarity with our allies in Bendir Dale, and for the safety of the citizens of Brogendenstein.
The Bladekeeper, Valtarion, is exiled from Brogendenstein. He will be informed in person before the exile is officially carried out.
Those associated in any official capacity with Myon are unwelcome in Brogendenstein until such a time they can assure me that the laws and lives of people within all sovereign nations of the Earthkin Alliance will be respected.
Signed
Oak of Clan Vintergard
Regent of Brogendenstein
Day 10, Month 9 (Eleint), 175 AR
Oak Vintergard
The Founder's Council Edict: In The Interests Of Peace (P2)
* The Founder's Council has also been warned by several entities that there are possible outside influences from others settlements. If we identify individuals attempting to directly bring in outside influences: settlements, organizations or alliances between settlements and the agents operating on their behalf then they will be punished severely.
* The Founder's Council has decided to not weigh in on Oahn and Gwyr. We will trust the Lord Sheriff and the Coronal to find a resolution that encourages peace. However, if they are not able to do so, the Founder's Council will make a determination on their behalf.
* The Founder's Council's mission is one of peace, prosperity and unity. If you can not work towards that, you will be removed. If you can not drop your grudges, you will be removed. We will continue monitoring the situation with our agents and accepting information provided by the public in the Founder's Hall which can be located in City Port.
* The Founder's Council will remain immediately responsive and focus our attention on maintaining this for the foreseeable future.
Albrecht von Hallenstein, Servant of Jergal
Malcolm Kendrick, Ambassador of Caer Corwell
Jahangir Khadem, Chief of the Iron Throne
Guldrun of Sundabar, Representative of the Lord's Alliance
Klara Send, Doomguide of Kelemvor
Anatalania Silden, Ambassador of Evermeet
Hagar Gursultur, Khazark of Guldorand
Blaze Abineri of the Flaming Fist[/quote]
Day 8, Month 10 (Marpenoth (Leafall)), 173 AR
Malcolm Kendrick
The Founder's Council Edict: In The Interests Of Peace (P1)
Hail to you, Guldorand and Myon. The Founder's Council investigation has come to an end. The Founder's Council believes that this conflict goes back generations and is part of an endless cycle.
Because it is impossible for us to identify and weigh in on affairs before the Founder's Council even existed, we have decided the best approach is to directly focus on what we have in front of us.
* Myon has agreed to punish Lysanthir if he disrupts the peace any further. The Founder's Council will weigh in this punishment if it is not at the time, contextually, satisfactory.
* Guldorand and Myon have both agreed to deescalate and speak to one another before resorting to violence. We encourage them that, if diplomacy fails, to consult the Founder's Council. The first entity that disrupts our current peace will be punished severely.
* Guldorand and Myon are mandated to avoid conflict with one another. The Founder's Council will not be considering morality as an excuse for interfering with one another. If either believes the other to be engaging in notably immoral behavior, we suggest diplomacy first. If this fails, the next step is the Founder's Council to make a determination.
* Instigators who seek to continue this conflict with subterfuge or third parties will be punished severely. The Founder's Council is aware individuals who we have identified as being 'loud and possibly violent instigators who want to undermine peace'. We name these as Nathaniel and Daeran. If you work with them to campaign, incite or act in violence or either try and sow the seeds of mistrust and dissent you will be punished severely. We are aware of others and will monitor them.
Day 8, Month 10 (Marpenoth (Leafall)), 173 AR
Malcolm Kendrick
Sharran cult.
On the 26th of the 11th 177 AR, I had managed to infiltrate a Sharran cult. Seeing several suspicious posts on public notice boards I felt it was in the best interest to get some eyes on, see what they are up too and work out any plans. I had not intended to worm my way into their group, but it seems to have been effective. As far as I could tell none could work out my disguise.
They are using two locations currently to meet, The temple to the lady of loss on the shadow plane. Just West of the gate in shadow cordor. And the Arcane towers equivalent on the shadow plane. They seemed happy enough to allow me to observe their activities within the temple, I have set up my cover as being a longstanding member of their church having seen many of their groups come and go. Seemed effective and it gained me their respect.
One of their members had brought an enchanted miner into the temple, in some sort of ritual to their god murdered him upon an altar. I did not proceed to the shadow tower, but they had mainly been speaking of ways to contact each other without breaking the shrouds of secrecy and growing their cells.
Descriptions of the members.
One human male arcanist in black robes with a red staff, summoned undead a frost revenant and a crust lord.
One divine caster, with shadows following her dark scabbard and glimmering short sword, seen in the Arcane tower before. Female rock gnome.
One female human most likely a shadowvar, used daggers, clad in black and purple Armor.
One human male arcanist, skeletal arm implied he has an affinity for necromancy most likely a pale master.
Most implied they were members of surface settlements. I'll be doing my best to keep an eye one them.
This is my declaration now, should I come under fire from any settlement. The only reason I am spending time around these groups is for espionage. A copy of this note will be posted to the Azure quill & the kuldarn barracks
Day 17, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
Abdiel Calibrant
General Summary of Recent Attacks for the Public
Appearance of Sigils in Bendir Last Month:
Reports I have come by have been vague but indicate a headless man on a horse has been sighted at the gravesites in Bendir. I am to gather that there have been similar incidents elsewhere on the isle including that of the Lye in Arelith forest and Cordor's gravesites. During these incidents the headless horseman asked for his beloved to be returned to him, after which they attacked. The horseman's appearance coincides with the appearance of Sigils, most likely necromantic in origin. Some suggestions a drow and shield dwarf (slave) may be involved, though I stress again the vague nature of what I have come upon so far. These Vigils lingered and eventually faded and disappeared a few hours later, though rituals were also performed to weaken them.
This is an ongoing concern and any new information should be brought to the attention of the relevant people.
United Defence Below Brogendenstein:
The lich Jarkaresh had been working in secret for many years to corrupt the Voice of the Mountain, the crystal call which led the original dwarves to found Brogendenstein. To this day, the subtle song of the crystals has been a source of strength to our people. Had he succeeded, we would not only have lost this but it is the belief of some that the lich would have taken a foothold that may well have meant the downfall of all that we have worked towards in Brogendenstein and the isle at large.
There will be a better chronicling of this incident with time, so that those who follow us can ensure it can never happen again. Furthermore, I have already announced special privileges to some of the men and women who made our victory possible.
I reiterate my thanks to those who joined the defence from all across the isle. Clangeddin Silverbeard reminds us that the strongest bonds are forged in battle and to this end the Dwarves of Brogendenstein will not forget those that fought beside us. This was an indication that whatever comes between us, this Isle will rise up in unison against any great evil that may threaten any of us.
The Demon attack on Bendir Dale
A few days before the matter in the caves beneath Brogendenstein, the Vigil of the Fallen by Bendir's Riverbank took place. As it was concluding, flames were seen at the nearby Fuzzypaw farm. It was the work of a demon named Gal'vrax that initially disguised itself as Izahne Tiller (dispelled moments later). The demon demanded Izahne Tiller, and after much resistance during which the Demon struck upon Bendir and the Grove, Izahne gave herself up in return for the attacks to stop. Various groups have discussed how she might be saved, but to my knowledge no progress has been made.
Day 6, Month 12 (Nightal), 177 AR
Oak Vintergard
Open Forum in Brogendenstein [Saturday 18th, 17:00 EST]
Starting in the next few days I will be taking a month long leave of absence as I tend to a personal matter. In light of this I will be hosting an open forum in Brogendenstein to address any questions or concerns that our citizens and allies have as well as making a statement about recent events. Those who do attend are reminded this will not be a debate on topics but rather an opportunity to have questions answered by the Regent and his officials.
Following the forum there may be opportunity for those attending to speak with the Regent privately.
The Forum will be held in the Hall of Legends.
We keep marching.
Signed
Oak of Clan Vintergard
Regent of Brogendenstein
((Time: Saturday 18/12/2021 at 22:00 GMT/ 17:00 EST))
https://a.chronus.eu/1A10A08
Day 12, Month 3 (Ches), 175 AR
Oak Vintergard
The Citadel of the Darkspire
From this day forward the Castle is under the control of Brogendenstein's Dominion. The Darkspire Citadel in the far north stand the last bastion over our ancient lands. Through years of service, alongside men such as Lord Eirik Skuring of Darrowdeep, Lady Saelynn and Lord Kael'avin Dwinndare Falco Whisperwill was forged.
Serving as Knight and later First Knight in Darrowdeep Castle and later in the Order of the White Stags. A life-time of service to good virtues and in near constant struggle against the taint of evil and despair of darkness Knight Falco Whisperwill became part of a legacy greater then himself.
Henchforth at my decree as Thane i announce that Knight Falco Whisperwill is named Lord Falco Whisperwill of the Citadel of the Darkspire Mountains under the banners of my Dominion.
May it be known the castle is under his command and under the management of Steward Darick Welter. Under such guidance the Citadel stand only to march forward from here.
To prosperity and glory.
Day 11, Month 7 (Flamerule (Summertide)), 170 AR
Falgrim Vintergard
Urgent - Ulrik's Treachery Deepens
My Thane,
After we spoke in Rhek's today, the Court of Gloom moved to the Consulate to discuss various matters. However, when we went down into the basement...we noticed something. The powerful and wicked vase that we had been instructed to keep locked in the warded cell...was gone!
The only ones who had access to the consulate were me, Gaston, Arkan, a few members of the Kuldarn...and Ulrik. The vase was there until recently....we believe Ulrik to have stolen it, before handing in his key!
While I was never truly informed as to the terrible nature of this foul artifact...I know that it's theft could have a terrible significance. It is possible Ulrik has more in mind than simply parting ways, and may intend to hurt Brogendenstein.
We should speak as soon as possible about this matter. Until then...be wary of Ulrik. He may already have begun to hatch a sinister plot of some kind!
Day 3, Month 11 (Uktar), 166 AR
Grenfeld Vintergard
On the recent Acceptance on the Banite Cultists.
Before a single stone had laid in foundation on Hall we gave them no inch. Branded the Black hand outcast and gave them no inch. We maintain this pledge and give them not one inch.
The Goldenhalls of Brogendenstein and it's Dominion as lead by it's First Thane stood strong in convinction that this was the right path. One we have never doubted for it has been proven right by time over the course of centuries. The history of the evil-faith is soaked in the blood of innocents and the crimes committed by the faithful of the dark-tyrant.
We maintain firm where others may sway. That there will be no acceptance, no favour, no credence for the Tyrant-god.
We do not yield. Not one inch.
Day 15, Month 11 (Uktar), 164 AR
Falgrim Vintergard
Report from Aistuil Deepstone
The same Svirf lass that gave Elder Malek the report on the drow wanting to intumb a Svirf in the grotto came to report she was contacted once again by the Drow.
WHile she was in the Bramble Wood collecting berries, the drow that gave her the message to bring here appeared, according to her, he appeared out of no where and tracked her. He accused her of not sending the message because of the lack of respoce they are expecting. Aistumil fears for her saftey untill they get an answer.
Day 20, Month 2 (Alturiak), 175 AR
Bowyder Bloodsmith
Report from Aistuil Deepstone
The same Svirf lass that gave Elder Malek the report on the drow wanting to intumb a Svirf in the grotto came to report she was contacted once again by the Drow.
WHile she was in the Bramble Wood collecting berries, the drow that gave her the message to bring here appeared, according to her, he appeared out of no where and tracked her. He accused her of not sending the message because of the lack of respoce they are expecting. Aistumil fears for her saftey untill they get an answer.
Day 20, Month 2 (Alturiak), 175 AR
Bowyder Bloodsmith
20/2/1375 DR - Banites meet with Black Lash
When:
The morning of 20th of Alturiak (Month 2), 1375 DR.
Where:
Shadovar trade outpost, not far away from the portal.
Banites:
Church of the Dark Lord members. One female, from three to five total.
> Byron Blackstone.
Dark robe with split tabard atop of metal chain, dark-brown edges of the equipment, bronze full plate boots, black hood and no visible weapons.
Black Lash representatives:
> Jack. Male hin, short, brown hair, wears brown leathers and a scarf, uses a staff with three crystals, blue glow. Official retainer of House Xun'viir.
> Amaldor, male drow. Possible leader between the trio.
> Unknown male drow, spellcaster.
Witness:
Anonymous.
Source, verified by myself, member of the Watch Rayne and member of Aegis, Laurian.
The witness spotted the following commotion approximately morning-afternoon of the day in the title.
Church of the Dark Lord members, several of them, met a group of the Black Lash members - Underdarkers in Shadovar trade post.
Only the ending of the meeting's conversation was caught up. Jack mentioned Byron by name and gave the other two insight into Guldorand's past.
The trio of Lashes was going to discuss the results of their meeting with Matron Xun'viir.
Day 20, Month 2 (Alturiak), 175 AR
Seitera Colds
16/2/1375 - Banites and the Garrison
Place: Guldorand, fountain.
Who:
Lucius
Byron
Guldorand Garrison's officer, possibly of a rank Captain.
Witnesses:
Skull Crags Ranger Reivan
Myself
Couple other folks.
> The Garrison's captain escorted the two banites towards the church of the Dark Lord, former Selunites one, that is near the Elven quarter.
Day 20, Month 2 (Alturiak), 175 AR
Seitera Colds
14/2/1375 - Banites meet Drow (Guldorand)
Place: Guldorand, former Selunite, now Dark Lord's followers' Church. Close to back entrance to Elven Quarter.
When: The night from 13th of Alturiak till the night of 14th of Alturiak (First month), of 1375 DR.
Individuals present inside, with grouping.
Banites:
Lucius Blackhand.
Human male, average height. Short black hair, polished full plate with a long red tabard, no weapons.
Kane, Dreadlord.
Dark robe with split tabard, dark-brown edges of the equipment, bronze full plate boots, shield and spiked helmet, massive two or three-forked staff with yellow light.
Khafra, of clan Zahuran. Owner of the temple.
Human male, bald, dark skin, simple black robes. Claimed to be a priest, later saw him fully warded.
Byron Blackstone.
Same-looking outfit as Kane's, but instead of a spiked helmet - black hood and no visible weapons.
Natiri of House Danenuma.
Human female, bald, dark skin. Wears black-red robes with fully red-heeled boots. Claimed to be of Thay - most likely a Red Wizard.
Their visitor:
Stryder - drow.
Didn't get a good glance at him.
Officials:
Angela Amana - High Sheriff.
Her bodyguard from the Gauntlet, no name was given.
Me tagging along.
Summary:
> A man came to me in Guldorand, warning of a drow that is going to meet with banites in the place described above and asked to inform the officials.
> I did inform the officials and entered the said church seeing five of the banites, that man and the drow. Banites were asking drow about why would 'she' would do something, drow answered because that 'she was like them'.
> Officials arrived to question the banites. Banites said that the drow said its piece about a woman "Diane" that needs "their guidance" and was forced to leave under the threat of death.
Day 20, Month 2 (Alturiak), 175 AR
Seitera Colds
14/2/175 - Banites meet Drow, Witness Report
When:
The night from 13th of Alturiak till the night of 14th of Alturiak (First month), of 1375 DR.
> Entering Guldorand I came across a drow named Stryder, he asked me to lead him to the Banite Church
> I alerted Seitera to his presence and obliged, taking him to the Church and learning he wished to speak with some friends as he claimed.
> The Banites entered, remembering him from an earlier meeting, and conversed. One expressed discontent and remarked that they could lose their lease if he was caught.
> The drow mentioned a woman named Diane Lee, or Diana Lee, and remarked that she was unwelcome in Cordor and was inquiring about bringing her to this church.
> The clergy agreed to take the woman in, and the drow remarked that when she was ready he would deliver her.
> They offered a portal to the drow, and he left cordially.
Day 20, Month 2 (Alturiak), 175 AR
Anonymous
1st Meeting with Tina 20/1/175
I have asked for this meeting prior by leaving a note on her quarter in guldorand.
Tina alias Providence. She send me a speedy and we met in the arcane tower rather than in guldorand which I suggested in the letter. Providence was well covered up, unregonizeable to me, she however did, during our talk mention the gift I had made her. I believe it was indeed providence I was talking to.
After exchanging the usuals, we came to talk about her exile from cordor and the so called extraplanar she has a pact with. She confirmed having a pact, however she has told me its in gentle accord and its uninterested in harming mortals. Further Providence said she never lied, calling herself a servant of life, which this entity is an embodiment of the principle of life itself.
Its not an extraplanar; it does exist on the prime material plane. I did not ask further about this entity, I felt she could have said anything without me being able to argue against it.
She left her exile was abusive as in, the current channcellor didnt have the right to do it as it was done. Chancellor Konstantin and her were friends in private, she wasnt sure herself. He felt betrayed and just applied the law. According to the statute he was applying- wrongly- at the moment she should have been burnt at the stake rather than exiled.
Perhaps he spared her from further law-shenanigans and spared her life?
She admitted sneaking into cordor and putting medicine and other things into the public barrel. She noticed the bleeding of personal. She wants to return to cordor to contiune her work so that its people may be spared from igorance and disease. She is slowly building a case to provide advantage of her return.
She mentioned to want to take a different living quarter, the tower wont accept her however. I asked her to provide me with information of her whereabouts incase I have more questions.
Day 20, Month 1 (Hammer (Deepwinter)), 175 AR
Miatza Cranstone
Attack on Bowyder
Bowyder was in the hotsprings up the mountain with a Sinara. He was attacked viciously by an exceptionally dangerous Duergar wearing Kuldarn armor, and a Gnome.
Varfogar and another went to investigate but could find no tracks or trace of them after the deadly attack.
The Gnome fought as a Rogue, and the Duergar as the Kuldarn he was dressed as.
Day 14, Month 2 (Alturiak), 175 AR
Rosalie Young
Drow in the Grotto
On day 13 of Alturiak, I was greeted in the halls by Elder Sternheart who claimed that Drow had been reported in the Grotto. Two Drow had hand delivered a note to a gnome, claiming that they had the power to enter the gnome's home. As Rhazkuldarn, Elder tasked me with leading an expedition below to investigate and check for tracks. Volamtar Silvbriga, Hessen Redbeard, and Tagnus Hainforund all accompanied me. We ventured to the Grotto ferry and checked the entrance to the quarry. There were no drow tracks throughout the city below and no residents reported seeing anything but earthkin. We also took the Earthkin portal into the Underdark and ventured as far as the old caravan grounds. We saw no evidence of the Drow incursion.
The gnomes involved were. Aistumul Deepstone and Floella. If I find them about the halls or below I will question them as to the source of the letter. It appears to come from Hous Xun'Vir, the leadership of the Butcher. I have posted a copy of this letter below the report.
I found a nice fishing spot near the ferry and will take to monitoring that access point soon. My guess is they strongarmed the ferryman into bearing them across.
Vigilance!
Day 15, Month 2 (Alturiak), 175 AR
Dalgur
Re: Drow in the Grotto
We should be rightly concerned about not only the security concern this presents but also the ulterior motive in what they propose. I have a hard time believing a drow would do anything for someone besides themselves, let alone one who was not drow. I will attempt to speak with the Grotto leadership on the matter. I can only imagine if the gnome was banished in the past it was for good reason.
Day 15, Month 2 (Alturiak), 175 AR
Oak Vintergard
Encounter with a slave from Andunor
I and several others encountered a slave in the halls. He is a human man named Zenyrys. He came up here alone in search of Frost Giants. He sought asylum and to be free from his collar. I, Varfogar, Elder Malek, Felriss, and Razkhuld Bowyder went down to the barracks to question him
He said his master was Luastra Hel'Vael of the House of Hel'Vael. He had been a slave of hers for several months, having been sold by Zhents. This drow house seems to have connections with a surfacer from Minmir, named Steffane Axe-Ripley. Devon Marshal and a lady named Zuri came to help us, and reffered us to a man named Nathaniel Brightburst. Verfogar, Zuri, and I escorted Zenyrys to the Radiant Heart keep, where Nathaniel met us. He did some magic to determine that Zenyrys most likely isn't a spy from Andunor.
Nathaniel said to us that in order to help us free this slave, we need to gather as many mandrake roots and Drow Slaver handbooks as we can. This is for a task that must be done down below. Nathaniel said that Devon Marshall has several books, supposedly.
Day 15, Month 1 (Hammer (Deepwinter)), 175 AR
Namli Silvbriga