You notice a rather large tome, cast in white covering and bindings sitting on the book shelf before you. Reaching for it, you slowly open to the first page of the heavy book, and peer deeply into the first page. As many books, the first page remains blank, but on the second page you see in bold, and neat handwriting these words:
THIS TEXT CONTAINS INFORMATION ABOUT THE LIFE OF VARIA XIA'EIVRA, WIZARD, TREASURE HUNTER, AND SELF-APPOINTED SCHOLAR.
You turn to the third page, and before you in a very colorful display, sits an old, and slightly outdated map of eastern Faeurn.
After studying the map and enhancing (your possibly low) your Geography of the old world, you turn the page on word, which contains yet another blank page. Turning the page in the book once more, reveals a sort of short and to the point prologue.
To whomever is reading this now,
This tome was not written for anyone. It was written for the sheer enjoyment of the author to jot down her feelings, adventures, and notations about her long, and ever continous life. This book, if ever read by another will provide a complete and random scale of rants, ramblings, a bestiary on various creatures, weather and climate, information on locations, and other sorts of feelings of a practiced and experienced mage who has long wandered some of the most desolate locations in eastern Faeurn.
Should this tome ever be found in the hands of brigands, monsters, or other such crooks, then it is the wish of this book's author that this personal piece of literature is kindly and immediately rellocated to the nearest library at once. Literature is sacred and as such must be respected and avoid the effects of destruction, biblioclasm, or libricide. Of course, there are some incidents that the destructive forces of nature brought forth by the gods will not spare such ancient texts. In such a scenario, then there is nothing for one to do, but sit by and allow the great deities to cast their judgement.
You turn on to the next page, which contains the first entry. Finally you are able to read the important parts of the text.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
Mirtul "The melting" is a sad, sad month for me indeed. At least it is nearly over.
My name is Varia Xia'Eivra. This is my first entry within this collection of writings that I am compiling, but it is not by any means the first diary, report, or book I have kept. Prior to this book, I have written many notes and studies upon the various creatures I have encountered as well as . . "items of interest. " I have also had a long term diary at my side for quite some time (though it seems to have been stolen by some renegades or brutes of some sort, curse them all). Regardless what I have written or not written, the main point is that I am keeping a journal on things that I note and study throughout my travels. Should anyone ever rest their eyes upon this book, they will have no direct indication of which each chapter writes or says. . it shall be completely in random, upon how I feel.
You can already see the chaos in my writing. I should have put such statements in the introduction, not in the first entry. It matters not. I shall continue writing.
Let us discuss a little bit of my work and purpose, and then perhaps recent events. As I eventually write more and more, I will continue to develop my main ideas and thoughts here. Thus, the following is merely a summary of what is yet to be further discussed.
Firstly, I am a mage, a dweller in the Arcane. I conjure up the elements to either protect me, harm my foes, or bring wonder on those that do not understand. I do not claim to be the most powerful mage (perhaps one day with much effort, I will be able to state such a thing). I also from time to time engage in melee carrying a rather awkward looking weapon, called a Halberd. I'm sure many of the brutish type would say it is a rather standard, and well-balanced piece of equipment, but the fact that a Wizard such as myself is not using a wand, or staff, seems to confuse most people.
Secondly, I travel the land and traverse the sea. Why? For a number of reasons:
- I wish to bathe in and take in all the destructive elements... minus that of FIRE. I am absorbing and viewing the raw powers of the deities who demand fear and respect. These are the deities of fury: Umberlee, mighty wench-queen of the sea. Auril, Ice-maiden and blizzard bringer. These two are quite easy to observe and speak of amongst those who dwell along the Sword Coast. Talos, God of thunders and earthquakes, on the other hand is clearly and outright banished from worship in most areas. . . though I have had the delight of meeting one of the Storm Knights in Amn's Athkatla where Talos worship is tolerated, and they even had a temple, or at least, the last time I ventured there. Finally, some say that Malar, the wretch-beast god is also one of the fury deities though I view him a tad bit too crazy for my liking. As I continue to write, I will further expand my thoughts and views on each of these deities, and why I pursue after them so. I will also at some point mention my favored goddess and her enemies.
- I desire power. This is directly connected with the elements. By studying the sheer and raw energy that comes from the elements, I am able to learn more about garnishing power. Why do people desire power? Well, don't all mortals to some extent?
- I seek treasure. Not gold, but trinkets and scrolls and potions that will enhance my own abilities and add to my ever growing repertoire of spells and magical skills. This is a general desire of ALL mages, after all.
Thirdly, and finally. Actually, at this point, to peak the interest of the reader, I will not write what the final and most desired goal of my purposes and works are. It seems you will simply have to continue reading through my random thought processes, examinations, and discoveries.
Do not worry. If you are not a barbarian, orc, or some other brute, then you'll eventually catch on to all I am writing here and what I am behind.
I have already grown weary of writing and thinking quickly about what I desire to elicit on the very first entry. This fatigue is partly due to a small series of recent events. I've decided to become a Laison of the Nashkel Trade emporium through dealings and plans with a fellow named Delphinn, the trade group leader.
But before that, I went to that elven city again. Donor Amar? The name forever forsakes me in my mind. Yes, yes. I am an ancient "rogue" elf. Hence why I was able to easily access their little head quarters off in the woods. Am I a Sun elf? Moon elf? Wood elf? Drow from the Underdark? These were the questions these other "elf kin" asked me. Too tell you the truth, I do not even rightfully know. My hair is whiter than that of Drow, my two Iris both colorless, and my skin as pale as the snow. Perhaps I am a mixture of all elf! Too say the least, however, I could care less what my heritage is.
I just remember how utterly hot and disgusting I feel while walking around their little encampment of "joy". I even forced myself to go and observe some hunt for wild game, a competition of their archery skill, only to watch the other elven races drop stinking hides of dead meat on the ground. Moronic. As they all walked off with their trophies, a priestess and I were attacked by a group of hunger driven wolves. It was as if Myrkul himself forced possessed dog-like banshees upon us. We drove them off, no thanks to the others who were most likely prancing and reveling in their skills of hunting.
I've grown tired of holding this quill to paper. I'll save this all for another day.
Signed: Varia Xia'Eivra
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
I'd rather live in an igloo than ruins full of dragons and treasures.
Thank Auril that this month is nearly over. Of course, next month only means it is going to get warmer. I just hate having to refer to The Melt every time I write a journal entry.
I noticed flowers growing out along the mountain edges. . . they're quite beautiful. Winter-Lily of some sort, but they do not last long in this kind of weather. They'll die soon and I'll have nothing but daisy and warmer types of plants sprouting up around the cloudpeaks.
I'll have to dry a few of the cold flowers. . .But enough on botany.
I've been rather busy lately. I hate to admit this, but I've been going out on a frozen limb, so to say, and venturing northwards to warmer climates near Baldur's gate, and even through that wretched desert east of Beregost. Why on earth would I desire to go to such heat-stricken, or even remote areas? I mean, I already dwell deep within the remotest parts of the cloudpeak mountains, but at least the weather is bearable here. There is purpose to all of this, of course.
I mentioned in the previous journal entry that I have become a Liaison of the Naskehl Trade Emporium (henceforth called N.T.E. within my articles). I now work and and operate within the Cloudpeak mountains as a "voice" or representative on behalf of the N.T.E. Of course, this too is not without purpose. Many adventurers do not realize this, but there is a massive gift from Auril near the Temple, which is also very closely situated next to the Nashkel Iron Mines. Restoring and profiting from the mines appears to be the main goal of the N.T.E., but I seek something bigger, and perhaps even better. I proposed working alongside my new found "friends" in order to not uncover whatever lies in the mines, or restore them, but rather, what lies beneath the twisted Aurillian ice caverns deep in the mountainside. I have ventured deeply into them, with Irini priestess of Auril as my guide, and have discovered ancient ruins there. Ancient ruins with, if I may add, crypts and undead beneath them.
The problem here is . . how to enter this tome? Perhaps Irini can use some of her influence with our mighty Auril to melt the nearly impenetrable ice in the depths of those caverns to access some entrance to the caverns. And after that, what of the undead that may still be lurking beneath them? This is where it is handy to have the N.T.E. as they (now we) may have the resource to further 'deal' with any undead spawn, or extract elements or artifacts from the underground passageways.
In any case, I have spoken with the N.T.E. and have had great response thus far. I also feel that there may be some dark and ancient, hidden away location within the Nashkel mines that lead down into these sacred, uncovered caves and tunnels. . .
This ties in with why I have journeyed north and northeastwards to the crypts in the fields of the undead, as well as the Ulcaster ruins, and even the tower of Durlag beyond that pathetic scrap of a halfling town, Guilkyn. I have been studying not the creatures within these halls or locations, but rather, I have been taking notes on the structural integrity and design of each place. I shall now record briefly my findings in the next few short paragraphs.
Firstly, the ice caverns themselves have one noted feature: bridges. There are ancient stone bridges that span across unfrozen, but cold and frigid. There are also two large graves, two large sarcophagus that seem to be guarded by some sort of undead host. Furthermore, somewhere close to the actual entrance, there is a stone stairway leading to a bridge that further leads to a passageway seemingly leading down, but the Ice there is beyond what anything even Kossuth could conjure up to burn down. I have yet to bring this up with any priestess of Auril, but perhaps there is another way.
Secondly, I have not inspected the actual Nashkel mines. There are vicious, disgusting Oroogs, there. Ugly and twisted abyssal orcs. I really despise their kind, and will have to venture deeper into the mines at a later date, but I have been also told there are grey dwarf types below the surface as well. I highly doubt, however that the structure of the mines will match a cold and icy tomb beneath the Ice caverns.
Thirdly, the large tomb in the Fields of the dead seems totally unrelated in anyway. There are mummies, Shadow priests (most likely of Myrkul) and even Gargoyles deep within those unholy passages, but they do not match the structures or bridge design that the Ice caverns contain. There are large visages of angels, ceramics, and other ghoulish objects scattered about, but nothing that resembles anything related to the designs found in the ice caverns. I will write this one off, and declare it completely unrelated.
The Ulcaster ruins are quite literally the ruins of all ruins. I cannot even venture into that maze of uncertainty. Further investigation will have to come at a later date.
Finally, Durlag's Tower is a maze of intrigue. There are creatures there known as Displacer Beasts, as well as Umberhulk. Further below I have even noticed Drow and mindflayers. Most interesting of all, however, is that the lower levels of this tower host a dragon's den. There a black dragon nest broods evil and dark, acid spitting dragons. Irini and I already dispatched one of the fiends, but I have a feeling there will be more beneath there, lurking about. As for the actual design of the place, I also feel no connection whatsoever. There are no bridges of the same design, no statue or objects tend to match what I have noticed in the ice caverns.
Of course, I write this all too simply. I am no architecture, but have enough knowledge and lore to notice the differences in building materials. Stone, adamantine, darksteel, mithril, you name it, I can notice some sort of difference. Crafting with them is one thing, knowing them apart from each other is simply in comparison.
I should also mention I have employed two fools in my travels. I believe one calls himself Mar, a tricky lock pick thief that uses magic (which actually makes him the more valuable of the two), along with a moronic fighter, an earth Genasi calling himself "Lotrik". We these two blunder-heads acting as my lackeys, I was able to avoid much of the mundane work or the nuisances in each dungeon. Money easily talks in the sword coast, and idiots will do almost anything for it. I'm sure exploiting them once again will be an option in the near future.
So how does this all work together in the weaving of my web? (No, I am not Lollth, nor Drow) These ancient tombs and crypts and underground frozen lairs hold secrets. Ancient powers beyond perhaps what any mortal may have seen could possibly lay buried away from the world. Of course, I am after these opportunities to be one of the first two uncover such ancient powers. Should these little excavations and excursions prove fruitful, I shall be one step closer in obtaining more powerful to find the one true person I loathe and hate. His accursed name still burns in my mind like flesh rearing flames. There is really nothing else to write about now, at least, not for my purposes. What I am truly after will take much longer, and much more detail to explain in words; it may take some time to fully illiterate.
I grow weary once again. In conclusion, I'd like to simply write down as a mental note, that today was also the day I finally retrieved a very kingly artifact. I know what I am talking about, of course, and thus will leave it at that. I'd also like to notice that the guards in nashkel have been revoltingly "whistling" and ogling my slim body with every passing, yet they still use that lousy "knife-ear" insult. Honestly, is that the best the race of humans could come up with? Perhaps I'll succumb to their needs, and allow them to have a little "fun" with me, given that they are willing to follow a "poor, sick, and defenseless female elf" in order to save another "beautiful and young friend" who has been trapped by Frost Giants deep within the hills.
I retire for now.
-Signed, Varia Xia'eivra.
Further Notation: Stop using "Of course" in your own writing. You are not explaining anything to those that are dimwitted.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
Frosty Flowers Blooming Outside the Temple of Myrkul.
Today something amazing and spectacular occurred. While polymorphed into a "Golem" (construct), a large group of randomly assorted adventurer types approached me. After they decided not to upright attack me to instead speak with me (some of them were familiar: familiar but very undesirable and annoying). They had all chosen to dare the frozen cliffs and peaks of the Cloudpeak mountains (my home, and main domain) and anyone going in a small army up to those frozen and frigid lands must have some sort of purpose. Curious on what their goals were, I tagged along.
They were "hunting" yeti and "murdering" Frost Giants, it seemed. They were horribly ill-prepared however. They failed to realize that the mountainside is also home to many elemental beasts, including those of both the electric and frozen variety. The electrical magic nearly killed many, yet they insisted they continue onwards (I had little problems here, as I was the only one who was probably warded). Whatever dawned on them that attacking the Frost Giant's fortress head on with a small brigade of adventurers was beyond me, but I stood to the side and watched nonetheless. They defeated the outside guardsmen, the giant Frost warriors, and all decided that it was safe to take a quick rest. I too, as stated, stood near the side, preparing my next wave of wards.
Then something anyone with half a brain would even understand happened.
The sounds of battle obviously arose the keeps inner denizens and a couple of warriors, along with a massive and giant "pet" emerged from the keep's doorway. Instantly realizing how close the others were, I backed off, blasting up an invisibility spell and basically ran up the side of a slight incline. I turned back to the group, and here a massive Ice drake was tearing up the party left and right. Anyone who has lived up here long enough such as I, realizes that when such a creature goes on a rampage, leaving is usually the only option. As such, I left.
I made my way down the mountains alongside another party member who had somehow miraculously survived the encounter, towards Lake Weng in amn. Along the way, however, this individual was attacked and beaten to the ground by a group of yeti. I was at the time, once again polymorphed, and had little trouble dispatching the beasts.
I made my way to the Lake and magically removed all of my wards, and rested near the temple of Myrkul, in some tall grass. In these blades of grass I discovered the very thing that has inspired me to write today. It was here that I found some very beautiful and well kept frost-lilly. Such a beautiful, frozen plant with a grand fragrance.
Joy. Joy is the only word I can think of. I had just witnessed a truly spectacular and amazing force of power. The mighty frost dragon, ice drake, whatever you may call it, rearing it's majestic head, and utterly destroying a group of fools with her mighty waves of energy. It was a shame I could not stay around for long, as it would have been fool-hardy for my own self to be caught in the dragon's blasts. Then, I witnessed wild beasts nearly tear apart an odd looking individual. Alright, I'll admit, the Yeti are not so majestic, and this wasn't such a pleasant part of the whole ordeal, but near Myrkul's temple I was able to find this rare, and exotic flower. I had originally only believed the plant grew in the Dales. . . but now it seems that it's not entirely true.
Myrkul, yes... Many lives were sent to him after todays events, where he broods in the plane of the dead. The structural components of Mykrul's temple at the lake are quite fascinating actually. I thought of venturing forth inside for myself to view, but I had already noticed a pattern with the other locations I have visited lately; they have no direct relation with those beneath the Ice caverns. Myrkul's followers use bones and dark materials . . . the stone under the Icy caves that I compare them with are not the same. It seems there is nothing quite like what is below Auril’s caverns.
I dare not pick these flowers. They are far too beautiful and amazing to be removed from the earth. If I respect sylvanus for anything, it is for allowing such a beautiful and stunning flower to grow.
Dragons seem to be the talk of everyone lately. I've accompanied a few other groups up the hills, blabbing on about dragons and wyrms, that obviously and truly exist up there. It seems that the head master of the N.T.E. has also left me some message about the white wyrm having some relation and problems with Drow as of late, though I have little knowledge on the topic, and am bound to find out more sooner or later.
The crisp air here in lake weng is refreshing, but I believe it is time to make my way back up through the mountain pass and return to Nashkel. Before I finished writing this last line here, I took one more look at the beautiful frosty-flowers and spoke a short prayer to Auril in hopes that they remain and continue to spread and grow.
Signed: Varia Xia'Eivra
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
The time of flowers: Kythorn. What a wretched month indeed. I can even feel the temperature warming slightly deep within the frosty Cloud peaks, and it will only get warmer. Soon the snow on the trail and sliding mountain slopes may become a soft slush, dirtying my boots and leaving stains on my robes. What a horrid time of the year indeed. I doubt I will be making as many trips beyond Nashkel, as the desert north and the lands beyond are most likely covered in sun and warmth. May Auril and her priestesses someday purge the land of firesides and sunny days.
My beautiful frost flowers. Descending down the peak towards Amn, I frequented the temple of Myrkul once again. There, the supposed gift of Sylvanus, gone. They seemed to have been uprooted, or perhaps eaten by some cursed creature, but the frosted flowers are no longer fruitful, or even there. What a horrible time of the year this truly is. I cannot express on parchment here how much I hate this time of the year. And I've experienced it for nearly two centuries.
I can tell, that the frost giants too are also keeping deeper in their palace and camps. I have not seen a single giant for some time along the trails. Surely they are retreating into the most coldest areas to dwell and plot whatever plans or raids they are preparing. This will not stop me from my current mission however. Lately, through influence and discussion I, Liaison of the Cloudpeak Mountains for the Nashkel Trade Emporium have with the help of their headmaster Delphinn conjured up a plan to get closer to these impressive, bulky brutes. I am to with my knowledge and use of arcane basically drag large offerings to the frosty fortress deep within the peaks and leave the giants there large and bountiful offerings of gold, weapons, loot, and meat. So far I have taken one rather heavy loud to the walls, and called out in what dialect of Giant I am able to utter.
-The next bit is written in a form of Jotun (giant) -
" Oh mighty creatures that dwell in the peaks above all of Amn. I bring to you an offering, from humble and peaceful beings that dwell in the northwards settlement of Nashkel. May you take this as a token of peace and good will, and give it to your King, your master. Let it be known that we seek to have discussion and talk about greater plans, that our much smaller races of beings be able to communicate better with each other. My name is Varia Xia'Eivra, witch of the frost-peaks, worshiper of Auril and I wish to further close ties with you all。 “
Honestly, this took me quite some time to think up. I am not the most charismatic of mortals. In any case, I left the large bounty of goods and made my way behind a small tree grown of pine. Casting an invisibility spell, I remained out of sight, and observed in time a large bulky giant lumber out and grab the offering. It seemed to hesitate at first, but it eventually slung the sack over it's shoulder and made it's way back into the keep. This is a good sign, and I will within some time once again gather resources from the trade emporium and leave them once again.
Such a task is not going to be an overnight ordeal. This may take weeks, if not months, to finally gain some sort of meeting. I have in the meanwhile, been researching out here in the mountains about the frost giants. The last time I ventured northwards I visited Candlekeep, but those damned scholars wouldn't let me through the front desk area. I instead merely inquired and asked around and learned by ear what I could.
I have learned of a special connection between the frost giants: an Ordning. This ordning is the social order to which all giants adhere and it assigns a rank to each individual giant so that there are none who are equal to one another, only inferior or superior. It is regarded as an act of evil to go against the ordning, or so this nameless scholar told me. There is also apparently a king, or rather, a "Jarl" who rules over the entire tribe. Well, it would seem to me that the jarl of the fortress on the mountains is indeed powerful and rich, and it may take a lot more time and items than what I have been leaving behind to gain his attention. Perhaps a lesser frost giant will communicate at some point, but it is this jarl, and not a giant of lower rank through their so called ordning I wish to speak to.
I will in time, learn more about the frost giants when able, but for now, It is better to continue using the resources the trade emporium is offering. Slowly, but surely, I shall get closer and closer to earning these creatures trust. The emporium at some point will also be accessing more and more of the Nahskel mines, and quite possibly, the realms beneath Auril's ice caverns that I had mentioned to Delphinn earlier. I have no need to study any more relics or ruins regarding those icy caverns either. They seem unique enough as it is.
Yes, I will keep working with this emporium. . . For now.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
Yes. "Stupid" as a member of the N.T.E. stated in one of her notes to the guild ( she has the worst writing I have ever had the displeasure of viewing, by the way). The elf-kin that live within their forested city have struck a deal with Black Orcs, which I had the unfortunate task of watching. To tell the truth, I voluntarily joined with that group of ten and watched some of the most unintelligent negotiations I have ever witnessed between dwarf, elf, and orc. To say the least, a complete and utter waste of MY time.
Despite what my own emotions are, this event has proven to be of some use. I had originally told the group there that I was simply interested in viewing the fate of their beloved and well known Silias. From my lack and little understanding, this Silias, the only elf in that city that I have spoken more than a few lines to, is quite important being a council member. Had she of died or lived, in the end wouldn't of mattered to me, but she seemed to be key in their negotiations, as they did bargain away at her life. They retrieved their beloved leader, but at a great cost. Now there are apparently black orcs which are roaming about those woods, hunting free from any elven harassment. As my fellow Liaison wrote, "Stupid Elves". Do they not see an immediate problem here?
Let me write a few of their names down, for if I do not write them down or release stress on their monstrous moronic methods, then I may go crazy myself. Some of them are quite pretentious and fail to realize their place in the world. I have come across a ranger who keeps calling out my name, though I have completely forgotten his, as he is a wretched being. He is one of the many fools that is SUPPOSED to be dead, after the large frost dragon, kept within the walls of the frost keep, mercilessly mauled a large chunk of adventurers, as I mentioned earlier. He forever asks me questions, and I have to literally glare him into submission or blast magic in the air to scare him off. Another wizard, whose name also escapes me, forever haunts me as I traverse through roads North and south of Nashkel. He knows my name, though I swear I've never mentioned it or met him, but the damned creature casts his simple and weak spells, in a haughty sort of matter. And the nerve! He dares to summon a fiery elemental in my presence, clearly knowing what I am. Should such a problem as this once again arise, I think I may know whom I desire to make into my next magical test subject.
There are others, but they are not worth mentioning. These two are the main one's I despise. Curse their souls. Fools such as these are the ones that will destroy their precious little village, and cause them all to go rogue such as yours truly. All it takes is one failed encounter with an orc... one simple misfired arrow or spell, and the entire elven realm in the woods there would be destroyed and over run by various tribes of Black Orc. Luckily for them, their leader Rhys is of the intelligent sort and most likely will do his best to keep the place intact.
Why do I care? I didn't, until the N.T.E. became involved. We are not only trying to restore the Nashkel mines, but we apparently have logging operations within those woods, and orcs and elves warring against each other would definitely leave an impact on our operations. If I were not a member of this emporium, then the matter would be of little concern. But in order to maintain a good relation and someday in the future manipulate these bands of merchants and adventurers involved within the N.T.E. I must show as high involvement as I can. I am no leader, nor desire to become one, but playing one's cards will get me much closer to the ruins deep below Auril's icy gift in the mountains, those frost caverns.
I've placed another offering down to the giants. A halberd of somewhat impressiveness, though I wish I would of found some axe. It seems much more fitting to their type. I have also failed to gain any new knowledge on the giants themselves, but perhaps soon something useful will emerge.
The hunter named Harrow is watching me warily from his tent, as I sit along the roadside, writing this all down. He already invited me to the campfire twice, but I told him to "Get a life and get lost" in goblin, but I think he may understand that language. Wretched hunter.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
" They're actually much closer than they seem to be. "
I've dropped off a few offerings to the Frost Giants in the peaks, but there has been little response. Additionally the N.T.E. has had very little contact directly involving me lately, but that is quite fine. It leaves me to my own designs.
It has been about a week since I have seen any form of civilization. I have purposely locked myself away in Durlag's tower. Durlag Trollkiller I do believe his name is (was? I am not sure if he lives still), and he is some sort of gnome or perhaps dwarf. It matters not, the owner of the structure is not around and the place is infested with very interesting and wonderful creatures.
I first noticed these beasts when I inspected the inner ruins to compare them with those within Auril's ice caverns. But it seems that there is no connection to the two in design. I also hard a rumor from traveling adventurers in Nashkel that Durlag's tower was still loaded with treasure, despite the fact that many adventurers and other souls have lurked and traveled through it. There may be some connection with the Drow that live in the depths there.
These creatures are very grim, dark, and evil. They are also amazingly unique, unlike any other type of creature one would find living out on the surface world. Of course, they lack the majesty and perfection of the beasts and creatures that lurk in the realms of Auril. I'll admit many of these creatures are much more interesting than yetis, at least.
*The rest of the page remains blank, and starting on the next page, you see a large title.*
SUBJECT A) UMBER HULKS
Umber hulks. Large and bulky beetle-like creatures, standing somewhere between eight to nine feet tall(though I've heard rumors of monstrously sized versions). They creep along on two hind legs, their larger forearms dragging along the ground while their backs hunch forward. Like locusts or mantises, they contain large and deadly pincers or mandibles, obviously used to catch and crush prey. In the dim shades and shadows, it is very easy to notice their large, fly-like multifaceted eyes that seem to stare out in all directions. These creatures are also composed of two much smaller eyes, nearly human in appearance. They easily move around the dark with nocturnal vision. I believe one pair of eyes are used to stun and confuse prey or enemies, while the others are actually used to see. Whenever I have encountered such a creature, I have wards and spell effects circling my body and thus feel only a tingle of anticipation or anxiety as they glare at me with their large eyes.
I am not sure why they are in Durlag's tower, but these creatures would be the type that seem to burrow. Their forearms and backs are very difficult to crush and pierce through with any weapon I've wielded against them. It is like they are wearing natural plate armor. They seem beast like, and unintelligible, but there seems to be some strange connection and even communication that happens when two of such creatures run across each other or meet. I also get the feeling that other creatures, such as the Drow which I have also encountered below the depths of the tower, may be directly controlling or manipulating them.
Experiments and other noted facts:
They ooze a green liquid, when slashed at, though that may be a chemical reaction between my acid-forged halberd.
They are very susceptible to spells, and not difficult to strike whatsoever.
I've noted sometimes bones or other such equipment seems to get stuck on the mandibles at times. I've found a very useful and interesting ring on one of the umber hulks.
SUBJECT B) Dirlagraun
Dirlagraun. The common name for these beasts is simply "Displacer Beast". These creatures resemble panthers, that you would see on the surface or out in the jungles of Chult. However, the differences are quite obvious. Firstly, Dirlagraun are magical, fey in nature. They have six legs, and their fur can even appear blueish at times. The most obviously and notable feature of such beasts however, are the two large tentacles that rise up above the body, resembling that of a squid's arms. They are quite large as well, and seem to be as long as Umber hulks are tall, around eight to nine feet, though I am certain other varieties of the creature lurk somewhere in Faerun's depths. These creatures in Durlag's tower also appear to mostly be solitary by nature. but at times they also work together in packs, like hunting dogs or wolves. Perhaps they too, are being controlled by the Drow in the depths of the tower.
The most special and unique characteristic about these beasts are their ability to bend and manipulate light. They appear to be much closer than what they really are, but at times, much farther away than they really are. Even to keen Elven eyes their exact whereabouts and standing location seem to be obscured. They displace themselves, hence the name in common.
Experiments and other noted facts:
I have been collecting threads and material from each creature I have killed. The tentacles are made up of fine fabrics that may be woven together. Perhaps I shall have someone commission and create for me a fine cloak or clothing. It has been a long while since I have gone "shopping."
*The next page goes back to the normal, journal style entry*
I mentioned that there were also Drow in the depths, on the second basement floor, that leads down deep into the earth. As I descend, it feels warmer, and hotter, as if I slowly grow closer to a volcano or some sort of Lava pit. I hate the heat. I hate warmth. I will stay in the upper levels of the tower for the most part, though I have also heard rumors of Illithid (mind-flayers) and Drow lurking even farther in the lower depths. Some have even mentioned a black dragon, though I have to doubt this and be somewhat skeptical, wondering how a dragon could even crawl down and fit in such enclosed and void hallways. It is not impossible, but the dragons I have come across always live deep in mountain caves which are much wider, or on peaks in large nests, similar to wyverns.
If it gets too hot, I will not continue. At some point soon, I will be heading back to Nashkel, to continue delivering Frost Giant gifts and studying other elements in the Mountain peak area. It is quite easy to think of those wonderful icy waves of snow while deep in the cold, but white-less earth.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
It has begun. The high, blazing sun. Everyday seems sunny and warm, and I've noticed the snow creeping quickly away from the very edges of the peaks, ever withdrawing into the cloudpeak mountains. I can even feel warmth whilst I walk through slush, and even flowers begin to grow where they normally would not in the frozen times of the year.
I think I may venture back into Durlag's tower at some point. Cross that wretched desert and suffer the chance of heat stroke. The depths of that tower are cool, and offer fine protection from the heat. A fine shade, even more so than the normally cloudy peaks of the mountains.
I merely wish to write here how much I dislike the sun and any other orb of heat Kossuth may have conjured up. May Auril's axe of wintry winds someday cover the lands and make all mention of warmth and heat forgotten. But until that day, I must suffer through the light and protect my pale, nearly perfect skin from all rays of sun.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
I haven't done anything very exciting or out of the ordinary for quite awhile now. Well, to tell you the honest truth, that is not entirely true. I finally slew a Black Wyrm in the depths of Durlag's tower that I seem to have made a sport of venturing into. It was quite interesting to finally use an appropriate mixutre of spells, weapons, and even armor to battle it, but in the end there could only be one winner, which of course was myself, naturally.
I cannot say that the wyrm is overall impressive, or that it fought well. It's acidic attacks do nothing against wards and the attacks nearly all missed due to spells like mirror image, enhanced mage armour, and other mixtures which raise defence. I would never be called honorable for defeating such a beast in this manner, as magic infact was the winner here, but I am no Lady or Warrioress. Magic is what my main element is when it comes to the gritty parts of battle, and so it remains as such.
I've picked myself up a few trinkets here and there. More mithril armour, which will be donated directly to the Frost Giants at some point. Those massive creatures are still unactive and refuse to speak to me. Their wandering mages will still assault me on the mountain sides, but a quick step into the shadows, once again with the use of magic, usually gets me out of harms way. I've also purchased an interesting pair of boots, that actually cause the ground and earth to shake when one jumps up and down, or slams a foot into the ground. They seem to be halfling or goblin crafted, but fit rather nicely on elven feet... nor are they overall-dirt and disgusting like most of those small-creatures equipment usually is.
I grow tired of the boredom that ever ensues Nashkel. I reside there, but there seems to be little that happens. Perhaps a long trip is in order. . . though I dare not stray too far into the heated realms beyond the friendly arm Inn. But who knows. Perhaps Auril can guide me somewhere to fulfil her will or design something for one such as I to do.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
I've pulled this frozen tome out once more. . . No, I did not forget to write. It is merely that nothing exciting or even having a slight drop of interest has come to pass.
I have constantly delivered gifts to the Giants in the Cloudpeak mountains, and it has been all for not. They have taken far too many gifts and offerings to not have responded me. I knew speaking to these creatures would require time, but my patience has grown thin.
I believe I may have to, as an Orc-Woman with half decent writing skills mentioned, find "alternative methods." I am not the most Charismatic being in existance. . .no. Good looks and beauty can bring followers, but my stern look and cold atmosphere drives away even beasts at time. . . Attracted by my elvish and female features, only to be driven back into the the cold once they get too close. . .
I am no leader, not in charismatic terms. No, if I want to control these beasts, perhaps fear. . .
There is no point in obsessing with this. I have to find other work to do.
I have sold off various trinkets and have formed myself a pretty pocket. Donations to the temple of Auril and Her glory. . .
I will continue my writings when something of interest arises... but for now, the Frost Giant ordeal seems to be a hopeless endeavor. I shall seek some other goal or further some other purpose. As for now, I wander the hills and mountains of Cloudpeaks, observing and studying Auril's effects that even exist here in the warmth of summer.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
I still feel the warm winds, blowing across the mountain sides. Winter is not yet upon us. . though I do in fact feel the temperature changing. . . as the name of this month suggests. . fading.
Soon the cool winds of winter will sweep down the mountainsides and send a chill along the Sword Coast. The air will be brisk, crisp and wonderful to the touch. When winter does in fact arrive, I'll be ready. When the leaves begin to change color and fall from trees, this is when I'll make my reappearance in the lands to the north of the mountains. This is when I will begin to spread Auril's influence.
I am not priestess, but Auril's holy frost must be spread. Her ice-blessed words must be spread and known and feared across the land. It forever seems the priestesses of Auril become too absorbed in their hoarding of gold. Gold is precious, but so is their devotion and religious duty to Auril. . or so it should be.
I have become very anti-social here in the mountains. Nor have I ventured down into Nashkel or met with any Trade Emporium members for quite some time. I do not even converse with giants. I sit here, on these mountain slopes, gazing down at the scenery below me. It is green. Some of it plastered with a brownish-white . . sand. I ocassionally notice a wyvern fly up from the twisted desert sands. But it matters not. When winter comes, I must find a way to spread Auril's influence further north towards Baldur's Gate so all may know Auril's grace and might. Even Umberlee will bow to Auril as the ocean freezes. The mighty storms of Talos will turn into blizzards, and Malar's wretched creatures become frozen statues forever petrified in ice.
Such dreams and visions I have been having. A shame that most of Faerun cannot understand what I see while standing, watching and dreaming of the land before me covered in ice.
There is nothing else to really write. I have been practicing my magic, as normal. Reading scrolls that are foreign and unknown to me. "Skin of Oak" a druid told me. I didn't quite like it, but I felt strange after reading it and observing what such a strange item can do.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
Two eves have passed since the Equinox of this world. I can feel the world shifting into coldness. . . The sun has already begun to creep its position away from the center and the influences of Kythorn, Flamerule, and Eleasias and those that would enjoy such miserable heat are slowly subsiding. It was during this time, or so I have heard, that those creatures deep within frosted lands begin to stir, and those of the most powerful and dangerous variety slowly wake up, as if it were a reverse hibernation. . . For them, they sleep through the majority of seasons, but as Eleint comes to a close and Marpenoth slowly rises, they rise while the leaves fall. This too is the time I have decided to once again descend down the mountain paths and into the lower valleys and beyond Nashkel.
This too, marks the time when those that would worship life-giving deities such as Chauntea would celebrate. On the 30th of Eleint, and the first of Marpenoth comes Highharvestide. Currently, I stand amongst the fields in Baldurs Gate. A pathetic, yet at the same time, pleasing sight. The war with Amn has cost these fools all dearly. . . and I have heard word that for the longest time a drought has been plaguing the lands, though I am uncertain on the current situation now. They perhaps shall celebrate their little holiday with meager supplies and tiny morsels of food. Whatever fare they should consume, I can only imagine how low in supply it must be. . . the fields are truly barren.
I have engaged in trade as well. I awaited around Nashkel, and despite my appearance had some offers for some trinkets I picked up in the mountains from fallen caravans and the likes. Other than yeti,elemental beings, and a few displacer beasts ( I made a quick stop at Durlag's Tower to check if the earth below was affected by weather . . . apparently geomancy and sunlight have little effect there on the earth.) I've spoken no words to any mortal being since I left my last note with the Nashkel Trade Emporium some time ago. The Emporium seems bare, and it seems everyone is either too busy or displaced. . I am not entirely sure what is going on with that trade guild. Regardless, working with them has in fact given me a little insight on appraising items. Never hurts to have a little extra coin on hand.
I will roam, and inspect the effects of weather as they change. Marpenoth is still a little too warm to my liking, but it is bearable. The days continue to get cold day by day, and that is the best part of this early incursion into the northern lands beyond the Cloudpeaks. Perhaps I shall engage in more trade, perhaps not. Charisma is a key tool in being a proper merchant, but this is something that I truly lack in.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
The cold air in this mystical temple has brought my heart to a steady and ever growing beat. It is here in the halls of this structure amongst the frost-bitten pillars where I feel alive and much more at home. Why I did not visit this area whilst in my exile away from the warm lands along the coast even baffles me. It is here in the ice covered citadel of worship that I feel, without a doubt, alive and well.
I have not visited her for months, instead making my homes in the mountains amongst sleeping creatures and those brave enough to endure the warm weathers of summer seasons. The sun beat down upon us, the snow and I. We felt like melting, we felt like turning into water. Perhaps it was the combined efforts of the primordial beings, Kossuth striking a deal with Istishia, in an attempt to burn us away with the firey sun and add more water to the kingdom of elemental waters? Of course, such beings of such opposite nature would most likely not work together. Regardless, this is the place I should have returned to and remained in for the remainder of Flamerule and the other summer seasons.
The Temple of Auril. It is here I can feel a mother's cold embrace. In these halls of snow I feel a hatred. It is not a firey hate, nor that of boiling lava. It is a cold, dark hatred that wishes to preserve the world in whatever form it is. Petrify it in a layer of ice and cold so that none can exist and roam freely. It is a hate that desires to consume the lands and force those that would lawlessly disobey the patron of winter into a never ending slumber, whilst stuck in ice. The figurines and statues of Auril encircle the shrine within the center of the temple. Dark and wicked lights glow blue and white, cold to the touch. It snows constantly from the roof, yet the snow never grows too thick, nor too thin upon the floor. It is a perfect realm. Even here, I feel the cold, and it is a welcome feeling indeed.
There have been no priestesses nor worshippers in the past few days. Perhaps they have not braved back as the winds still blow somewhat warm? My trips to and from the Friendly Arm Inn have been exhausting. I have engaged in trade and earned myself a few coin or two. Nothing new, nothing exciting. But it matters not. Change? Who needs it? Let the world freeze over and forever remain a world of frost and ice, pleasing to Auril and any other creature who deems her as master. Let her forever trap those who would otherwise disagree with her, and have them remain in their ice encrusted tombs.
My wanders continue, but for a time I shall remain here at the temple. Alone. Merely sitting amongst the pillars and shrines, thinking alone. It matters not. I prefer the comfrot of a lonely, empty hall. None cast their eyes upon me, only the frost maiden herself gazes down at my respectful methods. May she grant me power, wisdom and charisma, for these are traits that sometimse are required the most in the realms beyond the mountains.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
Indeed. The date I have written is unknown. I only recently received my journal and was able to regain my freedom recently.
All plans for the winter have failed and eluded me. Great were my plots and schemes on how I may channel the cold air and frost to bring icy beauty down on those below the Cloudpeak Mountains, but it has all come for not. I feel the grasps of winter slowly fading as the months break out into the much warmer seasons. The wretched sun lasts longer in the sky than it should be.
For what must have been months, I have been trapped. Held within the dark lairs of Frost Giants, surrounded by repulsive and dead creatures, ever having to listen to the tormenting sound of drunken laughter and stupidity uttered from the mouths of my captives. For weeks I had negotiated with these Giants, speaking their tongue, offering them gifts, attempting to bring their feeble minds into my power. But alas. I take back my insults out of shame. The Frost Giants despite their lack of intelligence are indeed rather wise and cunning at times.
I have been taken prisoner after being surrounded by these brutish creatures. I froze many, yes froze. Auril granted me the powers to protect myself in the form of brutal arcane magic and I used it mercilessly, but the Frost Giants were many. They laughed as they wrapped me up in chains and dragged me off into the deepest parts of their citadel, dousing my robes with ale and slamming me into one of their huge cells. There I witnessed their terrible pet wyrm, their king, and the execution of many other prisoners.
Gruesome I dare say it was. It would be enough to drive the simple minded mad, but I did not give up my faith. I lay there, wrapped in chains, drinking whatever water dripped from frozen catacombs above me and ate whatever source of food they tossed to me or through my way. But I survived... and somehow managed to escape.
Adventurers had burst into the citadel and managed to somehow distract the Frost Giant guards for a long while. It was enough for me to summon what little power I had left and break their heavy chains. I staggered out of the dungeon and out into the fresh fallen snow afterwards, where I then passed out.
These events are written in a summarized form, for I do not know them clearly. When I awoke I was in the Temple of Auril, lain out alongside the side of her alter, wasted and tired. Somehow my possessions were with me and the money I had left within the safe box in the Nashkel Trade Emporium was still accessible. I have been writing notes and letters and trying to get myself up to speed on what has happened.
I haven't bothered asking what day it is, but within time I'll know again soon...
Then it will be time to seek revenge .
Vengeance on all the Cloudpeaks and the inhabitants dwelling in that wretched castle of giants.
These creatures I once admired stole one winter from me. I have seen many a winter, but no mortal shall take what I hold most blessed. They stole the falling snow, they stole the frozen landscape and water, they have stolen all the negative temperatures that I dreamt of feeling throughout the other miserable seasons.
I will not take comfort in rest until I extract the sweet nectar of revenge and the ire in my soul disperses.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
Finally, time and dates have returned to me. They elude me no more. I know now that Ches is upon us, and the sunsets and sunrises take longer to come and go.
The Spring Equinox will soon be here... a sure sign that winter will truly be coming to its end. Yet, it feels strangely refreshing here in Nashkel, the cold wind and snow still blowing by. I am glad to at least catch the end of winter's icy grasp.
After all of these months I finally held meeting with those involved with the Trade Emporium. I am no good with names, but I've decided to at least record the names of the individuals I have met recently at the meeting. I will most likely be working in league with them all again soon.
The guild itself seems to be headed by new management. James White is what he calls himself, and he appears to be a somewhat decent fellow. Though he seems to side with those hideous knightly orders North, I cannot help but to admire his appearance. He literally is white, like the snow on the mountainside. Why cant humans have more names that capture such beauty?
Triston . . He seemed to be a mage. The most ideal partners to work with. Smarter, better dressed, usually no iron or ugly armor. I'd like to get to know more about him, he didn't say much there at the meeting.
Another Elf and a Human named Rai and Tildon . They're somewhat annoying as they constantly bicker, taunt each other, and play around with sassy and sarcastic words. I swear they're almost lovers. But I also feel that there is more than meets the eye to these two, especially the elf. She has close connections with James White and the way she whispered throughout the meeting. I get the understanding that she may be some spy or rogue of some sort. Not sure what to make about this Tildon though. Handsome human, but seems a little off task at times to me. Better keep them around and useful for now.
Well, I don't really have much to record about them other than this. I'll probably be working with them again soon. What task we currently have involves some seductress named Brea. Apparently she has been using dark arts to twist the souls of men, manipulating them. They have been driving workers from our mines and causing their deaths and killing innocents. Personally, I feel a few miners or workers dying here and there alongside a few innocents means nothing of importance, but should this keep up then profit will undoubtedly be skewed.
They mentioned they had collected some dark shard that the seductress had used in a ritual to summon up a demon... or was it a devil? I suppose it matters not, but I'd like to get my hands on another one of these shards. The last one was reportedly destroyed in some direct conflict with the forces behind all this madness.
White wants the knights and paladins of the Sword Coast to get involved. Those useless cretins are most likely very similar to those of the order of Helm in Nashkel. Prancing about, ruining the beautiful snow with soot and dirt stuck to the bottom of their ugly dirty iron clad boots. I guess we cannot all wear the light weighted , beautiful and shiny gleam of mithril.
Regarding this task, the only thing to really do now is interrogate those around the Cloudpeaks who may have some idea about this madness problem in the Nashkel mines. I didn't mention any of my deeper thoughts, but if this power was not from sort of devil or demon's dark blessing I would have to say using this madness to control trade may actually prove much more useful than dangerous. So. This all being recorded and finally written down... I will do exactly that. "Ask" those giants and other sinister fellows in the hills what they know, if they know anything and should they not, deal with them accordingly.
I feel like my magic is finally outweighing my battle prowess. . . Which is fine. It just means I won't be able to hit like I used to before that whole run in with those damned frost giants. A thousand frozen curses on their hearts and souls.
Zorn ~ Permanent resident in a Cavern.. Somewhere!
