DM Rumors of Darkhold

[DM Ink]

DM Rumors of Darkhold

[DM Ink]

A Familiar Sting

In the early hours of the morning, those of Darkhold Vale wake up to a grizzly sight. Reports of a purple and black smoke had seemly come to fruition as the fields lay littered with the carcasses of emaciated livestock. Farmers report sounds throughout the night. Some say they heard a struggle followed by the wet cracking of bones and a deafening silence. While most of the village attempts to gather their heads, the few brave enough to check find the same otherworldly smoke faintly drifting through the mouth and nostrils of the latest victims.

A smaller group of Zhentarim return from the forests later that afternoon. While only few are previewed to the extent of the report, there are rumors in the vale circulating that some of them didn't return. Something about goblins and kobolds attacking, but it didn't seem right. Many of the vale find this word of mouth for what it is, simply rumors. What kobold or goblin could take out a trained soldier of the Zhentarim.

[DM Ink]

In Preparation

In the dead of night torches sputtered and flickered against the cold mountain walls of Darkhold. An important arrival had been rumored. The boots of the Black Network's soldiers could be heard echoing through the keep as they took their places along the ramparts in anticipation. While the name was left unsaid, it was clear that their expected and honored guest left many of the inhabitants with a measure of trepidation. From the dark clad soldiers to the residents of the Vale, flags were unfurled with the sigil of the Zhentarim in waiting. His arrival would come soon, his presence would be undeniable.