Cursed Heritage 1 - The Dark Half
Chapter 14 - A kind of wild justice
A lone man was standing in front of the bridge crossing over the forest river.
He was wearing ragged scraps of animal hide and green clothing and his beard and hair were long and scraggly.
As the companions warily closed the distance, the man drew a horn and blew it, making a strange sound the echoed through the wood.
"Death to the defilers!" he screamed next, drawing a club from his belt.
The companions weren't surprised at all, having concluded the man's allegiance from afar. Imoen and Coran both nailed the Shadow druid with arrows, causing him to grunt in pain. From all around them, animals and Shadow druids surged to attack. Jaheira called Silvanus to aid them, causing the very roots to "Entangle" a pack of the dangerous undead Dread wolves. Aidan cast a "Stinking Cloud", it's noxious vapors nauseating and incapacitating a trio of the hostile fanatics. Khalid engaged a massive bear, the most dangerous of their enemies.
Seeing the might of these "defilers" first hand, most of the remaining druids started their own spell casting. Imoen and Coran attempted to fire on them to disrupt their chants. They managed to hinder two of the druids, but the rest of them managed to complete their spells. Three had blades of fire appear in their hands, while two caused their skins to harden and turn bark-like. The wild haired fanatic on the bridge took advantage of the bow- wielding companions' preoccupation with his fellows and healed himself.
Aidan, not about to let the man to start causing further trouble cast a "Melf's Acid Arrow" at him. The corrosive missile unerringly hit the man, eliciting a howl of pain and a murderous glare. His spell-casting would be over for a few moments at least, since the arrow stayed in the wound, continually pumping out acid thus causing pain and disrupting concentration.
Jaheira flashed Aidan a quick smile and ran to engage the other Shadow druids before they could charge the wizard with their "Flame Blades". Coran had started firing arrows at the "Entangled" Dread wolves, while Imoen had drawn her short sword and was ready to guard Aidan against any Shadow druids that came too close. Two of them, the ones with the magically hardened skin, were currently approaching.
Imoen engaged the closer one, but the other dodged her and rushed the young wizard. Aidan wasn't fazed however, and cast his "Mirror Image". Suddenly facing six wizards, the Shadow druid hesitated. Then, gathering his wits the man struck at the closest figure with his spear. It was one of the illusions. Aidan didn't give him a second chance, and blasted him with a "Magic Missile" trio. The man gasped and fell to the ground, very much dead.
Khalid had taken some nasty hits from the bear, but had finally managed to jump in closer and slice it's right paw clean off. The huge animal fell down, mortally wounded. Hurriedly glancing around him, the fighter saw that his wife had engaged the trio of "Flame Blade" equipped Shadow druids. Jaheira didn't seem to need his help, however. Two of her three enemies were already dead, having proven to be no match against the vengeful warrior-druidess. Khalid chose to charge the bridge guard instead, hoping to take out the man before Aidan's spell ran out.
Coran was whistling as he fired arrow after arrow at the struggling undead wolves. He genuinely enjoyed living in danger. Fighting against dangerous foes and gathering their wealth. But his true pleasure was the aftermath, living the high life in the best inns and festhalls, surrounded by willing women and the finest wines. Hunting down that Wyvern would guarantee him enough gold to enjoy that life for some time! Even if he couldn't go the "Gate", Feldepost's Inn in Beragost would be a suitable replacement for the large city's Elfsong, Blushing Mermaid or Low Lantern. Laughing out loud, he destroyed another undead wolf.
Jaheira and Imoen felled their enemies at the same time. Seeing that the three Shadow druids Aidan had temporarily incapacitated with his "Stinking Cloud" had struggled out of it, Jaheira motioned to Imoen and together they charged the recovering fanatics. As the women closed the distance, Aidan cast a "Chromatic Orb" at the farthest Shadow druid, stunning him and causing considerable damage.
Khalid ran the wild haired Shadow druid through with Varscona. Quickly surveying the battle field, he saw that the fight would soon be over. The companions had performed above their own expectations. No one was seriously injured and only two of their enemies were still up and fighting.
Seeing Coran run to engage the remaining two enemies, Khalid took the moment to drink from his waterskin. Wiping his mouth and brow, the half-elf kept watch over the bridge. It wouldn't do to allow these fanatics to spring another ambush now.
*-*-*
After a short rest the companions crossed the bridge and prepared for another skirmish. As they neared the huge, hollowed out tree that had been Seniyad's home, the companions saw that a small group was waiting for them in front of it.
One older man, two younger, tattooed and spear wielding men and three black bears.
As they warily approached, the older man motioned to his younger underlings who started towards the party.
"So you have chosen death! Foolish defilers, I am Amarande! The Shadow archdruid of this forest! You may have slain most of my druids, but you will get no further!" he yelled, waving his staff towards the companions.
Aidan saw Imoen and Coran take careful aim while Khalid prepared to intercept the spear wielding Shadow druids. Jaheira sneered at Amarande.
"Fool! Your heretical sect here is dead, and still you bluster? Today I exact my own revenge and that of my order's! For Seniyad and Osmadi, in their name I swear that your life is mine!" she exclaimed and began spell casting.
Jaheira's move heralded the start of the battle.
Aidan followed her lead, intending to disrupt the possibly dangerous elderly fanatic before he got off his own spells. Imoen and Coran let loose with their arrows, embedding four shafts into Amarande's old body in short order. Screaming in pain, he snarled a short order to his bear allies, which lumbered forward to attack the party. Khalid had engaged the spear men, having already wounded the other.
Aidan unleashed a "FireBall" at Amarande and his bears, engulfing them in brightly burning flames. Jaheira completed her own spell even before the flames had died down, and called down a lightning which struck into the middle of the explosion.
As the flames expired, Aidan saw that two of the bears had died, but Amarande still stood. The Shadow archdruid took a few halting steps, but couldn't hold on to his life any longer. With a gasp, his charred form fell down, even as Coran's third arrow entered his chest.
Smiling in grim satisfaction, Jaheira joined her husband in finishing off the last of their foes, while the last bear fell to arrows and Aidan's "Magic Missiles".
*-*-*
That night, the companions slept in Seniyad's old house.
It had been skillfully built inside a living tree, made with patience and loving care. Only thing made from stone was a small fireplace, in which the companions warmed their meals. Jaheira and Coran had searched the immediate area, but it seemed that if any Shadow druids had survived, they had fled.
Aidan saw Jaheira fidgeting with something, sitting by herself. Walking over, he saw that it was a small wooden ring, painted green and adorned with a tiny yellow stone.
The warrior druidess smiled as she saw his approach.
"This was Seniyad's... I found it on Amarande's corpse. A Ring of Animal Friendship. I remember that it was something akin to a..." she thought for a moment, considering something, "...a jest actually. Gorion's gift to him, you see. Seniyad had no need for such a ring, being a powerful druid..." she smiled and her voice trailed off.
Aidan considered her words, suddenly yearning to hear about Gorion and his friendship with this Seniyad. The old sage's stories had usually been about the adventures of others, not his own. Seeing Jaheira's expression made him postpone this idea, however. He knew from experience how it felt to lose someone close to you.
Shooting a hasty glance to his own bedroll, he saw Imoen patiently waiting for him. Cursing under his breath, the young wizard headed back to instruct his curious friend in magical theory. His lazy familiar hadn't even tried to cover for him, and now he was stuck with Im. Still, he knew that he had no new spells of real importance to scribe at this time. And it gave him some pleasure to hear Imoen's praise and awe of his new magical skills.
He was no longer the "lantern bearer" or the liability. With "FireBall", "Flame Arrow", "Stinking Cloud" and other such spells he was quickly proving to be the most powerful member of their small group. Smiling, it never occurred to Aidan that he was taking pleasure in his ability to kill living beings.
*-*-*
The next morning, it was raining again. The weather was proving to be a nuisance, and the companions were sullenly traveling without much talking. Only Coran seemed to be happy. He had told them to prepare for facing Wyverns, but it was only after they saw one, flying over them and giving a mighty shriek in it's terrible voice that they understood what they were about to face.
Much smaller than their fabled cousins, the Dragons, Wyverns were nonetheless awesome looking with their long tails, ending in scorpion-like stinger and their horned heads. It was told that a mere scratch from their tails would kill a horse.
Aidan shivered, and not from the cold.
Luckily Wyverns didn't know spells or have breath weapons, he thought grimly.
They followed to the direction the beast had flown, and surely enough, on top of a rocky hill, they found a cave.
After a small session of planning, the party decided to make a frontal assault. Wyverns would probably smell out any scouts, which would only make them wary. Khalid dug a Potion of Frost Giant Strength while Aidan cast his "Strength" spell on Jaheira. Imoen gave a bundle of Arrows of Ice to Coran. These were weaker than Acid Arrows, but still much better than non-magical arrows he mostly relied upon. Aidan had his spells, which were an important part of their arsenal.
Everyone prepared, with Jaheira casting a enchantment on herself which turned her skin into the likeness of bark, much like the Shadow druids had done. Every advantage was to be used this time.
After her final spell, they let their packs outside and charged in.
*-*-*
Inside, they found not one but TWO Wyverns and three little ones. A family of the beasts. Things had gone from bad to worse. Aidan didn't hesitate even as the adults hissed and snarled at the intruders, and quickly cast his "FireBall".
The Wyverns' snarls changed into yelps of pain as the explosion blasted them. As it faded, Aidan saw that two of the baby Wyverns had perished, while the adults were only wounded. Their burns had enraged the beasts, and seeing their dead offspring sent them into a frenzy. Shrieking in rage, the Wyverns lunged forward tails ready, intending to destroy these intruders.
Imoen and Coran launched arrow after arrow, but with seemingly little effect. Jaheira and Khalid blocked the path of the other Wyvern, but the other jumped over them in the high cave and came straight at Aidan. Nearly panicking, the wizard had time to cast his "Mirror Image" before the deadly tail struck him. Instead, it hit an illusion and blinked it out of existence. Aidan started casting again, intending to hit the enraged beast with a "Flame Arrow". But his luck ran out.
He felt horrid burning pain as the stinger dug in his side. With a powerful move, the tail jerked into another direction and flung him straight into the rocky wall. His spell lost, Aidan felt the powerful poison ravaging his system. As if guided by someone other than himself, he moved his hands over his wound and willed himself to heal. And as before, with the giant spider, the poison vanished and his wound healed somewhat.
Rising up, groaning in pain, he saw that Khalid had been flung away and Jaheira was in dire trouble, dodging the creatures attacks. The other Wyvern had momentarily forgotten about him, and was concentration on the two archers. Aidan was just about to start casting as he heard a snarl behind him. He whirled around in time to see one of his illusions disappear as the last baby Wyvern attacked him.
It had been wounded from his explosion, and was moving as if in great pain. Aidan knew that he needed to finish the small beast quickly. He cast a barrage of "Magic Missiles" at it, felling the little Wyvern. All his relief turned to fear as he heard the adult Wyvern scream in rage behind him.
Aidan turned around and saw that the beast was running towards him, bleeding profusely from many wounds. He had but one image left. Concentrating carefully, the young wizard started his casting. Closing his eyes to achieve better concentration, he felt the ground shake as the huge monster drew closer and closer...
He opened his eyes, his spell ready. The Wyvern was scant ten meters from him. Aidan unleashed his "Melf's Acid Arrow" and immediately afterward ran to the side. The missile's flight was true, it hit the Wyvern straight in it's already wounded head. The tail flicked and Aidan's last image faded. But the beast too, was finished. It fell down with a pained, weak snarl. Right next to Aidan, narrowly missing crushing the exhausted and frightened wizard.
Imoen and Coran paid him no heed after having made sure he was alive. Jaheira and Khalid were still fighting the last Wyvern, which had already poisoned Khalid causing him to use his Elixir of Health and leave his wife to fight the beast alone. It had cornered the warrior druidess, and was prepared to impale her with it's stinger when it's head was struck by a pair of freezing arrows. Roaring in anger, the beast whirled around only to receive another volley.
Aidan too had struggled to his feet, and launched a "Chromatic Orb" which stunned the weakened beast. This move allowed the recovered Khalid to slay the Wyvern with the archers' assistance.
The young wizard surveyed the scene of carnage. It had been a tough fight, but they had prevailed. As usual. Faintly remembering himself just a month ago, when he had nearly lost his life against a drunken thug he smiled. Further consideration killed that smile, though. Had he come forward or sunk lower? He had killed a family today, he realized. A "family" of man- eating beasts, but a family nonetheless.
No longer that pleased with his spells and new power, he looked on quietly as the ever jovial Coran separated the head of the larger Wyvern from it's corpse. They wouldn't carry the head with them, instead coming back for it later after having dealt with the Iron Throne.
*-*-*
After having found a sheltered area to heal themselves and re-memorize spells they inspected the treasure that had been found from the Wyvern's nest. It contained various bright and shiny objects, which the Wyverns had obviously liked. Among them a rare water opal and a purple garnet. Of most interest to Aidan was a forked red wand, obviously a magical item. Since he had no "Identify" magic at his disposal, it was useless for now.
The weather stayed foul, and the companions were forced to travel in the rain. The day began to grow old, and the shadows deepened. Only real illumination was the periodical flashes of lightning that lit the surrounding area eerily for a few fleeting moments. Despite their sour mood the companions were in relatively good health after their short rest.
Again lightning flashed, followed by the crack of thunder.
This time, it illuminated something new: a structure on a small island surrounded by a pole fence. The island was situated in a small lake, a wooden bridge connecting it to the mainland. This was surely the mines of the Iron Throne.
The party hid near the entrance, and made plans. There were likely guards inside. Since everyone was in good health and Aidan and Jaheira both had their most destructive spells available, the companions decided to brazenly assault the fort. The walls seemingly had no ramparts, so no archers could fire at them with much impunity. More importantly, the gate was open.
Aidan cast "Strength" on Jaheira, after which the companions started running towards the entrance.
Khalid led the way. He had Varscona already in his hand, ready to vanquish their foes. Two guards were huddling in the rain, wearing the familiar black splint mail of the Black Talons. One gazed up and had the time to open his mouth. He didn't have time to scream. Khalid skillfully lopped his head off and turned to face the second guard.
"Enemies at the gate! Ene-" was as far as he got. Somehow he dodged Khalid's swing, but that only served to put him straight at Coran's line of fire. The Iron Throne hireling fell, Arrow of Ice jutting from his neck.
The companions didn't waste any time and ran straight to the courtyard. A group of people was lounging there, and the closest man smiled coldly at them as they burst inside the fort. He was a powerfully built man wearing fine chain mail and a golden morning star in his hand.
"Draw your daggers and spells and lets have at 'er!" he barked to his comrades: a black robed man wielding a staff, a slight, dapper fellow wielding a brace of throwing daggers and a grizzled looking man clad in silvery plate mail and wielding a bundle of throwing axes.
"You've crossed our employers and this is as far as you're going to go my friend. Should've known that lazy bounty hunting rabble wouldn't get the job done. Never settle for second best, I always say!" the leader continued, this time to the companions.
"You want to know what I always say?" Coran shot back, ""Always kill the mouthy one", that's what I always say." He continued, grinning even as he drew an Arrow of Ice on his bowstring.
"HAW! A good saying!" The man laughed out loud, raising his formidable spiked weapon in a salute to the companions.
"I will use your head for a puppet and make it say it over and over while we drink large amounts of mead! Life is pretty good, you know?" he continued, suddenly springing into an amazingly fast run, straight at Aidan.
Realizing his enemy was magically hasted, the wizard quickly cast his "Mirror Image" to avoid getting a quick death by bludgeoning. His enemy snorted contemptuously, and methodically started hacking at Aidan's images. Jaheira had cast her "Call Lightning" spell, which had already claimed the life of the black robed enemy wizard.
The throwing axe wielder had flung a few axes toward Khalid, before the half-elf had engaged him in melee, causing some damage to him. Ignoring his wounded leg, the half-elf blocked the man's swing and hit him back with the freezing blade of his own sword. Imoen frantically searched for the last man, who had seemingly vanished into thin air. Coran had ran to aid Aidan with the enemy leader. She heard faint chanting from farther away, and suddenly a small army of kobold archers shimmered into view. With feral yips, the dog-men fired their arrows at her.
Fortunately for her, Imoen was quick on her feet and wore enchanted leather armor. She dodged most of the arrows, but yelped in pain as she felt at least two of them penetrate. Quickly raising her own bow, she fired an magical arrow which dropped a kobold. No sense to spare them while in mortal danger, she thought.
Jaheira had noted the disappearance of their enemy and had already acted. She finished her "Invisibility Purge" and the short enemy mage shimmered into view. Cursing a vile oath, he immediately started his own spell. Jaheira started to run towards him but got intercepted by the kobolds. She hacked at them madly, realizing the power of the enemy mage just as his spell went off.
Imoen let loose with an arrow and hit the wizard squarely in the chest. Grinning she drew another and... What was she doing? Sudden confusion took over her and she wandered off, looking for new targets.
Aidan cast his "Flame Arrow" at the enemy leader, wounding him badly. The huge warrior was grappling with Coran, trying to hit the nimble elf with his spiked weapon. Screaming in pain from the searing flames, he turned towards the wizard. What was Coran doing!
The elf's sword drooped in his hand and he wandered off, leaving Aidan alone with the enemy. Grinning evilly, the enemy warrior smashed one of Aidan's illusions. Only one left. The wizard screamed the word of power and launched a "Chromatic Orb". It impacted his foe, but this time failed to work. His enemy hadn't been stunned. Yelling for aid, Aidan retreated even as his enemy hit his last image and turned to face him personally.
Then he felt sudden pain, as a freezing arrow penetrated his "Armor" spell and embedded itself in his skin. What in the name of Oghma was Coran doing!? Aidan saw Khalid running toward him. But the magically speedy enemy was in front of him in a split second. He saw the morning star rise and...
His enemy fell down, Arrow of Ice through his throat. Sighing in relief, Aidan didn't hear that the battle was still going on. He gasped for air, down on his knees.
Jaheira bashed the last kobold aside and rushed towards the mage. From the corner of her eye she had seen that Khalid had tackled down Coran, but Imoen was still firing arrows at anything that moved, affected by the enemy wizard's spell. Now desperate, the short wizard cast another spell. A gout of flame flew from his hands and scorched the warrior druidess. It wasn't enough. Jaheira gritted her teeth and closed the distance, somewhat protected by her armor. Hitting with all her strength, she killed the last standing enemy with a few well placed blows.
Stopping to draw breath, the druidess soon had to jump aside as Imoen fired another arrow. With a grim smile, Jaheira ran over to the young rogue and administered a solid blow to her jaw that rendered her unconscious. Digging a healing potion from her pack, she fell on her behind.
They had survived the newest termination squad and made it inside. Now all they had to do was descend deep into the depths of the earth and find out what nefarious purpose this facility served.
Jaheira grimaced. She hated dungeons.
*-*-*
"We have need of your services yet again, Drasus.
We are expecting an incursion at our mine location in the Cloakwood. You are to accompany Davaeorn to the site and prevent entry or assault by anyone that is foolish enough to challenge you. Your standard fee shall be doubled in this instance. If all goes well you should look forward to more of the same.
Reiltar"
Aidan had found this letter from the enemy leader, apparently called Drasus. Who this Reiltar was, they had no idea. Another Iron Throne leader, no doubt.
They had also found a wealth of other valuables: Drasus' morning star (determined by Aidan to be enchanted), the silvery plate mail worn by the man Khalid had killed (also enchanted), Drasus' boots (enchanted, most likely having gifted him with his hasted speed) and a variety of potions, gems and jewelry. The companions hurriedly hid the equipment in the stables, not daring to use un-"Identified" magical items.
Not daring to stop for long, the companions raced towards the bailey, which most likely contained a lift. Inside were two Black Talons who got the surprise of their lives as the heavily armed companions burst in. Stupid but brave, the bandit/mercenaries challenged their advance. It was their last mistake.
*-*-*
The lift was simple, yet of high-quality. Dwarven made? Aidan was no expert, but he thought some of the runes inscribed in it's controls were Dwarfish. The descent wasn't very long, and soon they opened the door and stepped into the dank, dark mines.
They were soon set upon by three guards, whom they dispatched quite easily. These fellows didn't seem very experienced, most likely being new recruits. Most of the slaves they encountered were too disheartened to even plead for their freedom, but one man cunningly appraised the companions as they approached.
"Psst-- there be a plug somewhere that seals this mine from the river's torrent. Find it and maybe you can render this hell no more than a watery memory of its former self." He hissed at Aidan as the wizard drew near.
"Where is this plug you speak of?" he asked the slave.
"I know not, only that Davaeorn is said to have the key upon his person at all times." The man hissed back.
Not having time to start freeing everyone, the party pressed on. They met singular guards, most of whom fell without giving any credible resistance. The Iron Throne hadn't counted on possible enemies getting past their gate guards it seemed.
The companions soon found what had to be the river plug. It was a huge, round obsidian construct inscribed with various Dwarfish runes and having a distinct slot for some kind of a key squarely in it's middle. Nearby, an elderly slave was looking at them intently.
"If you set me free sirs, I can tell you how to bring this mine crashing down around the heads of these fat headed slavers." He said after a moment, having certained to himself that the companions were not members of the Black Talons or other Iron Throne hirelings.
After having got their promise the man began to explain in an excited tone, repeating what they already knew about the plug but telling also, that he knew how to operate it.
"There's a dwarf on the second level of the mines. His name's Yeslick, and he's the last surviving dwarf of the clan that used to live here. Under threat of death, he designed the plug for the master of the mines. I talked with him last time I was in the cells for bad behavior." The old man explained.
"If you haven't already been down to the lower levels, try to find a man named Rill. He's a good friend of mine, and should be able to come up with a plan on how to get all of the slaves to safety. I'll see you later then, and try not to get killed." He continued, wishing the companions well.
*-*-*
The second level had been better guarded. As soon as the party charged down the stairs, they were met by a quick hail of arrows. Three hobgoblin archers and two well-armed Black Talons engaged them. The fight was short but brutal, and Jaheira had to expend an Elixir of Health when she got poisoned from a hobgoblin arrow.
Seeing as they had been expected, Aidan sent Mara invisibly scouting down the next corridor. It turned out to be a fortunate move, as the kitchen was filled with battle ready mercenaries and either a wizardess or a priestess. The companions decided to take the other corridor, and met only a few guards who didn't manage to offer much resistance.
At the end of the corridor Coran's sharp eyes detected a secret door. He and Imoen thoroughly examined it, but found no traps. Taking a deep breath, Aidan pushed it open with the tip of his staff. Well oiled, it didn't make a sound as it swung open. Past it lay a horridly stinking dark corridor. Bravely the companions stepped in and closed the passage behind them.
The rank stench of carrion was making everyone ill, Aidan particularly gagging and only just managing to keep his meal inside. Suddenly everyone stopped as the source of the horrid stench ran into the light of their lantern.
Three horrid parodies of humans, with cracked reddish skin, clawed hands, sharp teeth and long, lolling tongues ran towards them. As they drew closer, Aidan couldn't tolerate their miasma and fell on his knees, vomiting. Imoen suffered likewise, but Coran kept his lunch and shot an arrow at the lead Ghast.
For Ghasts these certainly were, fell cousins of the more common Ghouls. Despite his overwhelming nausea, Aidan managed to launch his "Magic Missiles" at the already damaged undead monstrosity, causing it to hiss in pain. Jaheira and Khalid met the Ghasts in melee, the "wounded" undead creature quickly falling in front of their their prowess. Coran switched weapons and leapt into the fray, while Imoen who had recovered slightly was helping Aidan to rise.
Khalid yelped in pain as the foul, most likely diseased claws of his enemy raked through a weak spot in his armor. He immediately gained revenge, slicing the Ghast's hand off with Varscona. It's companion struck at him too, but he blocked it's attempts with his enchanted shield. Jaheira struck with her staff, wielding it like a spear from behind him and Coran. Her blow snapped the other Ghasts head to the wall, allowing Coran to slice it's foul, rotting stomach open. Hissing in irritation the Ghast struck back, it's lethal claws drawing blood from the elf.
Coran fell limply, momentarily paralyzed by the creature. Hissing again, this time in hunger, the Ghast jumped over the elf, intending to start feasting. In it's single-mindedness, it had forgotten about Jaheira, who struck a mighty blow across it's face, causing it to crash in the wall. Turning to face this new threat, the Ghast failed to notice Imoen. While still in the grips of nausea, she nonetheless managed to sever the monsters spinal column, causing it to topple over, effectively destroyed.
*-*-*
Khalid had managed to destroy the last Ghast in short order, and the companions were ready to continue. After a short walk they reached the end of the passage way, where Coran and Imoen quickly found another secret door. After listening intently for a minute, the rogues concluded that there were people behind, but not many. Certainly not the army Mara had reported waiting for them in the dining hall.
They pushed the secret door open and ran inside, where they found a small but stocky dwarf and a human slave, who quickly introduced himself as Rill. He asked for a hundred gold pieces, after hearing that the companions were the Iron Thrones enemies. He told them that he intended to use it to pay any remaining guards and free the prisoners. Having no objections, the companions gave him the gold and instructed him in the use of the secret doors.
The dwarf had observed their conversation, and after Rill ran out he slowly approached them.
"Oh a fine sight are you, who ever you are! Sick to death of bandits I am! I have been cooped up the longest time, but if you've a spare mace I'd gladly swing it for yer cause. I can do things cleric wise as well, so I'm mind as well as muscle. By Clangeddin, a chance to right past wrongs! Can I join you?" he pleaded in his deep voice, hands curled into fists.
"All help is welcome. We've much to overcome." Jaheira sighed, giving the now grinning dwarf a weary smile.
"That you have, and none would know better than I. These are my mines that the blasted Iron Throne has stolen. Well, they were my clan's home 125 years ago. Curse me for a fool, I trusted them! Years ago that blasted Rieltar gave me a good trade smithing for the Throne, and then I go and tell him about my old home!" he muttered with a quiet oath in his own language.
"About how my clan had the richest iron mine on any coast, and how almost all were killed when we breached a riverbank. Lost most my kin in that flood. Those of us that survived couldn't bear to go back down. It was a giant watery tomb, and we left it the way she stood. So I go and tell this to my "friend" Rieltar, and he has me chained up!" the dwarf continued, his eyes flashing in painful remembrance.
"He tortures the location outta me, and now this graveyard feeds the Iron Throne as they bleed the coast dry. If you want to cripple their plans, help me flood these accursed mines once more! They plugged the breach, but knowing hands can loose the flow! We can drown these black-hearted rats in the very mine they've stolen! Here be the way!" he growled, pointing towards an oaken door behind him.
It was locked, but they had Imoen and Coran with them. Yeslick, as the dwarven fighter priest was called, healed their wounds to the best of his ability. When asked, he told them that the dining hall was just behind the next room. It would be a hard fight, but they had the element of surprise now.
Aidan felt anxious. He knew that he had to get his "FireBall" off without a hitch, otherwise they would be in serious trouble. Yeslick had told them that the finest of Black Talon awaited them in the nearby room, Taugosz's former personal guards most likely.
"Yes!" Imoen whispered with glee.
The lock clicked open.
It was time. The door swung open and Khalid and Jaheira ran out. Aidan followed and heard a clash of steel against steel, there had been guards in the room.
Cursing under his breath, the young wizard prepared for immediate spell casting. This one would be close.
Chapter 14 - A kind of wild justice
A lone man was standing in front of the bridge crossing over the forest river.
He was wearing ragged scraps of animal hide and green clothing and his beard and hair were long and scraggly.
As the companions warily closed the distance, the man drew a horn and blew it, making a strange sound the echoed through the wood.
"Death to the defilers!" he screamed next, drawing a club from his belt.
The companions weren't surprised at all, having concluded the man's allegiance from afar. Imoen and Coran both nailed the Shadow druid with arrows, causing him to grunt in pain. From all around them, animals and Shadow druids surged to attack. Jaheira called Silvanus to aid them, causing the very roots to "Entangle" a pack of the dangerous undead Dread wolves. Aidan cast a "Stinking Cloud", it's noxious vapors nauseating and incapacitating a trio of the hostile fanatics. Khalid engaged a massive bear, the most dangerous of their enemies.
Seeing the might of these "defilers" first hand, most of the remaining druids started their own spell casting. Imoen and Coran attempted to fire on them to disrupt their chants. They managed to hinder two of the druids, but the rest of them managed to complete their spells. Three had blades of fire appear in their hands, while two caused their skins to harden and turn bark-like. The wild haired fanatic on the bridge took advantage of the bow- wielding companions' preoccupation with his fellows and healed himself.
Aidan, not about to let the man to start causing further trouble cast a "Melf's Acid Arrow" at him. The corrosive missile unerringly hit the man, eliciting a howl of pain and a murderous glare. His spell-casting would be over for a few moments at least, since the arrow stayed in the wound, continually pumping out acid thus causing pain and disrupting concentration.
Jaheira flashed Aidan a quick smile and ran to engage the other Shadow druids before they could charge the wizard with their "Flame Blades". Coran had started firing arrows at the "Entangled" Dread wolves, while Imoen had drawn her short sword and was ready to guard Aidan against any Shadow druids that came too close. Two of them, the ones with the magically hardened skin, were currently approaching.
Imoen engaged the closer one, but the other dodged her and rushed the young wizard. Aidan wasn't fazed however, and cast his "Mirror Image". Suddenly facing six wizards, the Shadow druid hesitated. Then, gathering his wits the man struck at the closest figure with his spear. It was one of the illusions. Aidan didn't give him a second chance, and blasted him with a "Magic Missile" trio. The man gasped and fell to the ground, very much dead.
Khalid had taken some nasty hits from the bear, but had finally managed to jump in closer and slice it's right paw clean off. The huge animal fell down, mortally wounded. Hurriedly glancing around him, the fighter saw that his wife had engaged the trio of "Flame Blade" equipped Shadow druids. Jaheira didn't seem to need his help, however. Two of her three enemies were already dead, having proven to be no match against the vengeful warrior-druidess. Khalid chose to charge the bridge guard instead, hoping to take out the man before Aidan's spell ran out.
Coran was whistling as he fired arrow after arrow at the struggling undead wolves. He genuinely enjoyed living in danger. Fighting against dangerous foes and gathering their wealth. But his true pleasure was the aftermath, living the high life in the best inns and festhalls, surrounded by willing women and the finest wines. Hunting down that Wyvern would guarantee him enough gold to enjoy that life for some time! Even if he couldn't go the "Gate", Feldepost's Inn in Beragost would be a suitable replacement for the large city's Elfsong, Blushing Mermaid or Low Lantern. Laughing out loud, he destroyed another undead wolf.
Jaheira and Imoen felled their enemies at the same time. Seeing that the three Shadow druids Aidan had temporarily incapacitated with his "Stinking Cloud" had struggled out of it, Jaheira motioned to Imoen and together they charged the recovering fanatics. As the women closed the distance, Aidan cast a "Chromatic Orb" at the farthest Shadow druid, stunning him and causing considerable damage.
Khalid ran the wild haired Shadow druid through with Varscona. Quickly surveying the battle field, he saw that the fight would soon be over. The companions had performed above their own expectations. No one was seriously injured and only two of their enemies were still up and fighting.
Seeing Coran run to engage the remaining two enemies, Khalid took the moment to drink from his waterskin. Wiping his mouth and brow, the half-elf kept watch over the bridge. It wouldn't do to allow these fanatics to spring another ambush now.
*-*-*
After a short rest the companions crossed the bridge and prepared for another skirmish. As they neared the huge, hollowed out tree that had been Seniyad's home, the companions saw that a small group was waiting for them in front of it.
One older man, two younger, tattooed and spear wielding men and three black bears.
As they warily approached, the older man motioned to his younger underlings who started towards the party.
"So you have chosen death! Foolish defilers, I am Amarande! The Shadow archdruid of this forest! You may have slain most of my druids, but you will get no further!" he yelled, waving his staff towards the companions.
Aidan saw Imoen and Coran take careful aim while Khalid prepared to intercept the spear wielding Shadow druids. Jaheira sneered at Amarande.
"Fool! Your heretical sect here is dead, and still you bluster? Today I exact my own revenge and that of my order's! For Seniyad and Osmadi, in their name I swear that your life is mine!" she exclaimed and began spell casting.
Jaheira's move heralded the start of the battle.
Aidan followed her lead, intending to disrupt the possibly dangerous elderly fanatic before he got off his own spells. Imoen and Coran let loose with their arrows, embedding four shafts into Amarande's old body in short order. Screaming in pain, he snarled a short order to his bear allies, which lumbered forward to attack the party. Khalid had engaged the spear men, having already wounded the other.
Aidan unleashed a "FireBall" at Amarande and his bears, engulfing them in brightly burning flames. Jaheira completed her own spell even before the flames had died down, and called down a lightning which struck into the middle of the explosion.
As the flames expired, Aidan saw that two of the bears had died, but Amarande still stood. The Shadow archdruid took a few halting steps, but couldn't hold on to his life any longer. With a gasp, his charred form fell down, even as Coran's third arrow entered his chest.
Smiling in grim satisfaction, Jaheira joined her husband in finishing off the last of their foes, while the last bear fell to arrows and Aidan's "Magic Missiles".
*-*-*
That night, the companions slept in Seniyad's old house.
It had been skillfully built inside a living tree, made with patience and loving care. Only thing made from stone was a small fireplace, in which the companions warmed their meals. Jaheira and Coran had searched the immediate area, but it seemed that if any Shadow druids had survived, they had fled.
Aidan saw Jaheira fidgeting with something, sitting by herself. Walking over, he saw that it was a small wooden ring, painted green and adorned with a tiny yellow stone.
The warrior druidess smiled as she saw his approach.
"This was Seniyad's... I found it on Amarande's corpse. A Ring of Animal Friendship. I remember that it was something akin to a..." she thought for a moment, considering something, "...a jest actually. Gorion's gift to him, you see. Seniyad had no need for such a ring, being a powerful druid..." she smiled and her voice trailed off.
Aidan considered her words, suddenly yearning to hear about Gorion and his friendship with this Seniyad. The old sage's stories had usually been about the adventures of others, not his own. Seeing Jaheira's expression made him postpone this idea, however. He knew from experience how it felt to lose someone close to you.
Shooting a hasty glance to his own bedroll, he saw Imoen patiently waiting for him. Cursing under his breath, the young wizard headed back to instruct his curious friend in magical theory. His lazy familiar hadn't even tried to cover for him, and now he was stuck with Im. Still, he knew that he had no new spells of real importance to scribe at this time. And it gave him some pleasure to hear Imoen's praise and awe of his new magical skills.
He was no longer the "lantern bearer" or the liability. With "FireBall", "Flame Arrow", "Stinking Cloud" and other such spells he was quickly proving to be the most powerful member of their small group. Smiling, it never occurred to Aidan that he was taking pleasure in his ability to kill living beings.
*-*-*
The next morning, it was raining again. The weather was proving to be a nuisance, and the companions were sullenly traveling without much talking. Only Coran seemed to be happy. He had told them to prepare for facing Wyverns, but it was only after they saw one, flying over them and giving a mighty shriek in it's terrible voice that they understood what they were about to face.
Much smaller than their fabled cousins, the Dragons, Wyverns were nonetheless awesome looking with their long tails, ending in scorpion-like stinger and their horned heads. It was told that a mere scratch from their tails would kill a horse.
Aidan shivered, and not from the cold.
Luckily Wyverns didn't know spells or have breath weapons, he thought grimly.
They followed to the direction the beast had flown, and surely enough, on top of a rocky hill, they found a cave.
After a small session of planning, the party decided to make a frontal assault. Wyverns would probably smell out any scouts, which would only make them wary. Khalid dug a Potion of Frost Giant Strength while Aidan cast his "Strength" spell on Jaheira. Imoen gave a bundle of Arrows of Ice to Coran. These were weaker than Acid Arrows, but still much better than non-magical arrows he mostly relied upon. Aidan had his spells, which were an important part of their arsenal.
Everyone prepared, with Jaheira casting a enchantment on herself which turned her skin into the likeness of bark, much like the Shadow druids had done. Every advantage was to be used this time.
After her final spell, they let their packs outside and charged in.
*-*-*
Inside, they found not one but TWO Wyverns and three little ones. A family of the beasts. Things had gone from bad to worse. Aidan didn't hesitate even as the adults hissed and snarled at the intruders, and quickly cast his "FireBall".
The Wyverns' snarls changed into yelps of pain as the explosion blasted them. As it faded, Aidan saw that two of the baby Wyverns had perished, while the adults were only wounded. Their burns had enraged the beasts, and seeing their dead offspring sent them into a frenzy. Shrieking in rage, the Wyverns lunged forward tails ready, intending to destroy these intruders.
Imoen and Coran launched arrow after arrow, but with seemingly little effect. Jaheira and Khalid blocked the path of the other Wyvern, but the other jumped over them in the high cave and came straight at Aidan. Nearly panicking, the wizard had time to cast his "Mirror Image" before the deadly tail struck him. Instead, it hit an illusion and blinked it out of existence. Aidan started casting again, intending to hit the enraged beast with a "Flame Arrow". But his luck ran out.
He felt horrid burning pain as the stinger dug in his side. With a powerful move, the tail jerked into another direction and flung him straight into the rocky wall. His spell lost, Aidan felt the powerful poison ravaging his system. As if guided by someone other than himself, he moved his hands over his wound and willed himself to heal. And as before, with the giant spider, the poison vanished and his wound healed somewhat.
Rising up, groaning in pain, he saw that Khalid had been flung away and Jaheira was in dire trouble, dodging the creatures attacks. The other Wyvern had momentarily forgotten about him, and was concentration on the two archers. Aidan was just about to start casting as he heard a snarl behind him. He whirled around in time to see one of his illusions disappear as the last baby Wyvern attacked him.
It had been wounded from his explosion, and was moving as if in great pain. Aidan knew that he needed to finish the small beast quickly. He cast a barrage of "Magic Missiles" at it, felling the little Wyvern. All his relief turned to fear as he heard the adult Wyvern scream in rage behind him.
Aidan turned around and saw that the beast was running towards him, bleeding profusely from many wounds. He had but one image left. Concentrating carefully, the young wizard started his casting. Closing his eyes to achieve better concentration, he felt the ground shake as the huge monster drew closer and closer...
He opened his eyes, his spell ready. The Wyvern was scant ten meters from him. Aidan unleashed his "Melf's Acid Arrow" and immediately afterward ran to the side. The missile's flight was true, it hit the Wyvern straight in it's already wounded head. The tail flicked and Aidan's last image faded. But the beast too, was finished. It fell down with a pained, weak snarl. Right next to Aidan, narrowly missing crushing the exhausted and frightened wizard.
Imoen and Coran paid him no heed after having made sure he was alive. Jaheira and Khalid were still fighting the last Wyvern, which had already poisoned Khalid causing him to use his Elixir of Health and leave his wife to fight the beast alone. It had cornered the warrior druidess, and was prepared to impale her with it's stinger when it's head was struck by a pair of freezing arrows. Roaring in anger, the beast whirled around only to receive another volley.
Aidan too had struggled to his feet, and launched a "Chromatic Orb" which stunned the weakened beast. This move allowed the recovered Khalid to slay the Wyvern with the archers' assistance.
The young wizard surveyed the scene of carnage. It had been a tough fight, but they had prevailed. As usual. Faintly remembering himself just a month ago, when he had nearly lost his life against a drunken thug he smiled. Further consideration killed that smile, though. Had he come forward or sunk lower? He had killed a family today, he realized. A "family" of man- eating beasts, but a family nonetheless.
No longer that pleased with his spells and new power, he looked on quietly as the ever jovial Coran separated the head of the larger Wyvern from it's corpse. They wouldn't carry the head with them, instead coming back for it later after having dealt with the Iron Throne.
*-*-*
After having found a sheltered area to heal themselves and re-memorize spells they inspected the treasure that had been found from the Wyvern's nest. It contained various bright and shiny objects, which the Wyverns had obviously liked. Among them a rare water opal and a purple garnet. Of most interest to Aidan was a forked red wand, obviously a magical item. Since he had no "Identify" magic at his disposal, it was useless for now.
The weather stayed foul, and the companions were forced to travel in the rain. The day began to grow old, and the shadows deepened. Only real illumination was the periodical flashes of lightning that lit the surrounding area eerily for a few fleeting moments. Despite their sour mood the companions were in relatively good health after their short rest.
Again lightning flashed, followed by the crack of thunder.
This time, it illuminated something new: a structure on a small island surrounded by a pole fence. The island was situated in a small lake, a wooden bridge connecting it to the mainland. This was surely the mines of the Iron Throne.
The party hid near the entrance, and made plans. There were likely guards inside. Since everyone was in good health and Aidan and Jaheira both had their most destructive spells available, the companions decided to brazenly assault the fort. The walls seemingly had no ramparts, so no archers could fire at them with much impunity. More importantly, the gate was open.
Aidan cast "Strength" on Jaheira, after which the companions started running towards the entrance.
Khalid led the way. He had Varscona already in his hand, ready to vanquish their foes. Two guards were huddling in the rain, wearing the familiar black splint mail of the Black Talons. One gazed up and had the time to open his mouth. He didn't have time to scream. Khalid skillfully lopped his head off and turned to face the second guard.
"Enemies at the gate! Ene-" was as far as he got. Somehow he dodged Khalid's swing, but that only served to put him straight at Coran's line of fire. The Iron Throne hireling fell, Arrow of Ice jutting from his neck.
The companions didn't waste any time and ran straight to the courtyard. A group of people was lounging there, and the closest man smiled coldly at them as they burst inside the fort. He was a powerfully built man wearing fine chain mail and a golden morning star in his hand.
"Draw your daggers and spells and lets have at 'er!" he barked to his comrades: a black robed man wielding a staff, a slight, dapper fellow wielding a brace of throwing daggers and a grizzled looking man clad in silvery plate mail and wielding a bundle of throwing axes.
"You've crossed our employers and this is as far as you're going to go my friend. Should've known that lazy bounty hunting rabble wouldn't get the job done. Never settle for second best, I always say!" the leader continued, this time to the companions.
"You want to know what I always say?" Coran shot back, ""Always kill the mouthy one", that's what I always say." He continued, grinning even as he drew an Arrow of Ice on his bowstring.
"HAW! A good saying!" The man laughed out loud, raising his formidable spiked weapon in a salute to the companions.
"I will use your head for a puppet and make it say it over and over while we drink large amounts of mead! Life is pretty good, you know?" he continued, suddenly springing into an amazingly fast run, straight at Aidan.
Realizing his enemy was magically hasted, the wizard quickly cast his "Mirror Image" to avoid getting a quick death by bludgeoning. His enemy snorted contemptuously, and methodically started hacking at Aidan's images. Jaheira had cast her "Call Lightning" spell, which had already claimed the life of the black robed enemy wizard.
The throwing axe wielder had flung a few axes toward Khalid, before the half-elf had engaged him in melee, causing some damage to him. Ignoring his wounded leg, the half-elf blocked the man's swing and hit him back with the freezing blade of his own sword. Imoen frantically searched for the last man, who had seemingly vanished into thin air. Coran had ran to aid Aidan with the enemy leader. She heard faint chanting from farther away, and suddenly a small army of kobold archers shimmered into view. With feral yips, the dog-men fired their arrows at her.
Fortunately for her, Imoen was quick on her feet and wore enchanted leather armor. She dodged most of the arrows, but yelped in pain as she felt at least two of them penetrate. Quickly raising her own bow, she fired an magical arrow which dropped a kobold. No sense to spare them while in mortal danger, she thought.
Jaheira had noted the disappearance of their enemy and had already acted. She finished her "Invisibility Purge" and the short enemy mage shimmered into view. Cursing a vile oath, he immediately started his own spell. Jaheira started to run towards him but got intercepted by the kobolds. She hacked at them madly, realizing the power of the enemy mage just as his spell went off.
Imoen let loose with an arrow and hit the wizard squarely in the chest. Grinning she drew another and... What was she doing? Sudden confusion took over her and she wandered off, looking for new targets.
Aidan cast his "Flame Arrow" at the enemy leader, wounding him badly. The huge warrior was grappling with Coran, trying to hit the nimble elf with his spiked weapon. Screaming in pain from the searing flames, he turned towards the wizard. What was Coran doing!
The elf's sword drooped in his hand and he wandered off, leaving Aidan alone with the enemy. Grinning evilly, the enemy warrior smashed one of Aidan's illusions. Only one left. The wizard screamed the word of power and launched a "Chromatic Orb". It impacted his foe, but this time failed to work. His enemy hadn't been stunned. Yelling for aid, Aidan retreated even as his enemy hit his last image and turned to face him personally.
Then he felt sudden pain, as a freezing arrow penetrated his "Armor" spell and embedded itself in his skin. What in the name of Oghma was Coran doing!? Aidan saw Khalid running toward him. But the magically speedy enemy was in front of him in a split second. He saw the morning star rise and...
His enemy fell down, Arrow of Ice through his throat. Sighing in relief, Aidan didn't hear that the battle was still going on. He gasped for air, down on his knees.
Jaheira bashed the last kobold aside and rushed towards the mage. From the corner of her eye she had seen that Khalid had tackled down Coran, but Imoen was still firing arrows at anything that moved, affected by the enemy wizard's spell. Now desperate, the short wizard cast another spell. A gout of flame flew from his hands and scorched the warrior druidess. It wasn't enough. Jaheira gritted her teeth and closed the distance, somewhat protected by her armor. Hitting with all her strength, she killed the last standing enemy with a few well placed blows.
Stopping to draw breath, the druidess soon had to jump aside as Imoen fired another arrow. With a grim smile, Jaheira ran over to the young rogue and administered a solid blow to her jaw that rendered her unconscious. Digging a healing potion from her pack, she fell on her behind.
They had survived the newest termination squad and made it inside. Now all they had to do was descend deep into the depths of the earth and find out what nefarious purpose this facility served.
Jaheira grimaced. She hated dungeons.
*-*-*
"We have need of your services yet again, Drasus.
We are expecting an incursion at our mine location in the Cloakwood. You are to accompany Davaeorn to the site and prevent entry or assault by anyone that is foolish enough to challenge you. Your standard fee shall be doubled in this instance. If all goes well you should look forward to more of the same.
Reiltar"
Aidan had found this letter from the enemy leader, apparently called Drasus. Who this Reiltar was, they had no idea. Another Iron Throne leader, no doubt.
They had also found a wealth of other valuables: Drasus' morning star (determined by Aidan to be enchanted), the silvery plate mail worn by the man Khalid had killed (also enchanted), Drasus' boots (enchanted, most likely having gifted him with his hasted speed) and a variety of potions, gems and jewelry. The companions hurriedly hid the equipment in the stables, not daring to use un-"Identified" magical items.
Not daring to stop for long, the companions raced towards the bailey, which most likely contained a lift. Inside were two Black Talons who got the surprise of their lives as the heavily armed companions burst in. Stupid but brave, the bandit/mercenaries challenged their advance. It was their last mistake.
*-*-*
The lift was simple, yet of high-quality. Dwarven made? Aidan was no expert, but he thought some of the runes inscribed in it's controls were Dwarfish. The descent wasn't very long, and soon they opened the door and stepped into the dank, dark mines.
They were soon set upon by three guards, whom they dispatched quite easily. These fellows didn't seem very experienced, most likely being new recruits. Most of the slaves they encountered were too disheartened to even plead for their freedom, but one man cunningly appraised the companions as they approached.
"Psst-- there be a plug somewhere that seals this mine from the river's torrent. Find it and maybe you can render this hell no more than a watery memory of its former self." He hissed at Aidan as the wizard drew near.
"Where is this plug you speak of?" he asked the slave.
"I know not, only that Davaeorn is said to have the key upon his person at all times." The man hissed back.
Not having time to start freeing everyone, the party pressed on. They met singular guards, most of whom fell without giving any credible resistance. The Iron Throne hadn't counted on possible enemies getting past their gate guards it seemed.
The companions soon found what had to be the river plug. It was a huge, round obsidian construct inscribed with various Dwarfish runes and having a distinct slot for some kind of a key squarely in it's middle. Nearby, an elderly slave was looking at them intently.
"If you set me free sirs, I can tell you how to bring this mine crashing down around the heads of these fat headed slavers." He said after a moment, having certained to himself that the companions were not members of the Black Talons or other Iron Throne hirelings.
After having got their promise the man began to explain in an excited tone, repeating what they already knew about the plug but telling also, that he knew how to operate it.
"There's a dwarf on the second level of the mines. His name's Yeslick, and he's the last surviving dwarf of the clan that used to live here. Under threat of death, he designed the plug for the master of the mines. I talked with him last time I was in the cells for bad behavior." The old man explained.
"If you haven't already been down to the lower levels, try to find a man named Rill. He's a good friend of mine, and should be able to come up with a plan on how to get all of the slaves to safety. I'll see you later then, and try not to get killed." He continued, wishing the companions well.
*-*-*
The second level had been better guarded. As soon as the party charged down the stairs, they were met by a quick hail of arrows. Three hobgoblin archers and two well-armed Black Talons engaged them. The fight was short but brutal, and Jaheira had to expend an Elixir of Health when she got poisoned from a hobgoblin arrow.
Seeing as they had been expected, Aidan sent Mara invisibly scouting down the next corridor. It turned out to be a fortunate move, as the kitchen was filled with battle ready mercenaries and either a wizardess or a priestess. The companions decided to take the other corridor, and met only a few guards who didn't manage to offer much resistance.
At the end of the corridor Coran's sharp eyes detected a secret door. He and Imoen thoroughly examined it, but found no traps. Taking a deep breath, Aidan pushed it open with the tip of his staff. Well oiled, it didn't make a sound as it swung open. Past it lay a horridly stinking dark corridor. Bravely the companions stepped in and closed the passage behind them.
The rank stench of carrion was making everyone ill, Aidan particularly gagging and only just managing to keep his meal inside. Suddenly everyone stopped as the source of the horrid stench ran into the light of their lantern.
Three horrid parodies of humans, with cracked reddish skin, clawed hands, sharp teeth and long, lolling tongues ran towards them. As they drew closer, Aidan couldn't tolerate their miasma and fell on his knees, vomiting. Imoen suffered likewise, but Coran kept his lunch and shot an arrow at the lead Ghast.
For Ghasts these certainly were, fell cousins of the more common Ghouls. Despite his overwhelming nausea, Aidan managed to launch his "Magic Missiles" at the already damaged undead monstrosity, causing it to hiss in pain. Jaheira and Khalid met the Ghasts in melee, the "wounded" undead creature quickly falling in front of their their prowess. Coran switched weapons and leapt into the fray, while Imoen who had recovered slightly was helping Aidan to rise.
Khalid yelped in pain as the foul, most likely diseased claws of his enemy raked through a weak spot in his armor. He immediately gained revenge, slicing the Ghast's hand off with Varscona. It's companion struck at him too, but he blocked it's attempts with his enchanted shield. Jaheira struck with her staff, wielding it like a spear from behind him and Coran. Her blow snapped the other Ghasts head to the wall, allowing Coran to slice it's foul, rotting stomach open. Hissing in irritation the Ghast struck back, it's lethal claws drawing blood from the elf.
Coran fell limply, momentarily paralyzed by the creature. Hissing again, this time in hunger, the Ghast jumped over the elf, intending to start feasting. In it's single-mindedness, it had forgotten about Jaheira, who struck a mighty blow across it's face, causing it to crash in the wall. Turning to face this new threat, the Ghast failed to notice Imoen. While still in the grips of nausea, she nonetheless managed to sever the monsters spinal column, causing it to topple over, effectively destroyed.
*-*-*
Khalid had managed to destroy the last Ghast in short order, and the companions were ready to continue. After a short walk they reached the end of the passage way, where Coran and Imoen quickly found another secret door. After listening intently for a minute, the rogues concluded that there were people behind, but not many. Certainly not the army Mara had reported waiting for them in the dining hall.
They pushed the secret door open and ran inside, where they found a small but stocky dwarf and a human slave, who quickly introduced himself as Rill. He asked for a hundred gold pieces, after hearing that the companions were the Iron Thrones enemies. He told them that he intended to use it to pay any remaining guards and free the prisoners. Having no objections, the companions gave him the gold and instructed him in the use of the secret doors.
The dwarf had observed their conversation, and after Rill ran out he slowly approached them.
"Oh a fine sight are you, who ever you are! Sick to death of bandits I am! I have been cooped up the longest time, but if you've a spare mace I'd gladly swing it for yer cause. I can do things cleric wise as well, so I'm mind as well as muscle. By Clangeddin, a chance to right past wrongs! Can I join you?" he pleaded in his deep voice, hands curled into fists.
"All help is welcome. We've much to overcome." Jaheira sighed, giving the now grinning dwarf a weary smile.
"That you have, and none would know better than I. These are my mines that the blasted Iron Throne has stolen. Well, they were my clan's home 125 years ago. Curse me for a fool, I trusted them! Years ago that blasted Rieltar gave me a good trade smithing for the Throne, and then I go and tell him about my old home!" he muttered with a quiet oath in his own language.
"About how my clan had the richest iron mine on any coast, and how almost all were killed when we breached a riverbank. Lost most my kin in that flood. Those of us that survived couldn't bear to go back down. It was a giant watery tomb, and we left it the way she stood. So I go and tell this to my "friend" Rieltar, and he has me chained up!" the dwarf continued, his eyes flashing in painful remembrance.
"He tortures the location outta me, and now this graveyard feeds the Iron Throne as they bleed the coast dry. If you want to cripple their plans, help me flood these accursed mines once more! They plugged the breach, but knowing hands can loose the flow! We can drown these black-hearted rats in the very mine they've stolen! Here be the way!" he growled, pointing towards an oaken door behind him.
It was locked, but they had Imoen and Coran with them. Yeslick, as the dwarven fighter priest was called, healed their wounds to the best of his ability. When asked, he told them that the dining hall was just behind the next room. It would be a hard fight, but they had the element of surprise now.
Aidan felt anxious. He knew that he had to get his "FireBall" off without a hitch, otherwise they would be in serious trouble. Yeslick had told them that the finest of Black Talon awaited them in the nearby room, Taugosz's former personal guards most likely.
"Yes!" Imoen whispered with glee.
The lock clicked open.
It was time. The door swung open and Khalid and Jaheira ran out. Aidan followed and heard a clash of steel against steel, there had been guards in the room.
Cursing under his breath, the young wizard prepared for immediate spell casting. This one would be close.