Alnifolia said a prayer softly in a language I did not understand. I presumed it to be a druidic psalm or prayer. Palustris served our plates and passed them up. Our cups were filled with the pure water and we happily ate after a stressful day in the dark basement. Alnifolia asked the others about their impressions of the cellars. They each recounted the same themes I shared with him. He asked Dravist his opinion of the setting as a cleric hoping he might have a bit of insight about the place. Dravist agreed with me about the books in the executive study being the key to the place. He also said the summoning chamber was very advanced and able to support some high-level rituals. He added that it was his interpretation from the artifacts found that they had one very senior cleric, a second senior cleric and four established clerics on staff, with accommodations for three other clerics, one of high station, as visitors. He commented that in the hierarchy the head man was a bishop, the second man was an arch deacon and the others were established priests, by way of comparison. As he made this analogy I considered it and nodded. I agreed it sounded like a good description based on my limited knowledge of such things. That would make this site the equivalent of a cathedral church, the center of religion for a capitol city.
Alnifolia asked Gillfort to take food to the prisoners and to bring up a bottle of wine when he returned. Gillfort stood and bowed saying, “Yes, master.” He grabbed his plate and took it to the kitchen and then was heard preparing two more plates. Alnifolia then asked Laevis to clear the table. He rose and began to do so. As the table was being cleared, he asked me to get my map out again. I pulled out my map and we spread it over the table. He hunched over to make a careful examination of it.
He pointed to one place and said, “Are you sure you measured these rooms off properly?” I replied, “They should be very well marked, and accurate. The whole building was built by accomplished stone masons. They laid it out as a great rectangle and placed rows of columns every thirty feet along these lines and every ten feet the other way. This was repeated on each floor so that the bottom floor was in the best arrangement to strengthen the floor above. Using the columns as a reference, I should have the rooms very well marked, especially on the bottom floor where the lines are not as regular.” Alnifolia nodded his head as if to indicate he agreed with my reasoning and then observed, “Then we have areas here, here, and here on the lowest floor that need to be investigated in addition to the two locked rooms you skipped.” Having expressed that thought, Vallen and Jackwon stood up to see where these places were that hadn’t been searched. Dravist already knew about the two locked rooms.
Alnifolia asked, “Let’s have another look at the parchment map.” I spread out the parchment, which was drawn to another scale and was incomplete. It showed only the third basement level, but the parts we did have agreed with my dimensions. They had other symbols on their drawing in the ritual summoning room. Again, Alnifolia asked Dravist what he thought these might be. Dravist said he did not know, and Alnifolia looked at him, stared at him, as if trying to see if he was getting the full answer or something was being withheld. He sat back as he heard Gillfort returning from the cellar. He asked him, “Is everything alright down there?” Gillfort said, “Our guests seem to be comfortable, yes.” And he brought the bottle of wine to Alnifolia. Alnifolia took it and poured just a bit into his cup and took a sip. He raised his cup in an approving gesture and said, “Go ahead and bring up a second bottle, please.” Gillfort bowed and turned to leave. Alnifolia poured my cup, and then motioned for the other cups to be passed up to him. Vallen, Dravist, Jackwon and Palustris all had their cups filled. I left mine on the table as did Vallen and Palustris. Jackwon and Dravist tasted theirs. They noticed we had not lifted our cups and set theirs back again. The second bottle arrived and Alnifolia poured a cup for himself, Gillfort and Laevis before setting the bottle down.
He raised his cup and we all raised ours in reply, and then everyone took a drink. Alnifolia asked, “Is there anything else from your exploration today?” I remembered the rubbings. I pulled them out and showed them to Alnifolia. He looked at them carefully and replied, these markings have no meaning to me. Then I pulled out the tokens I had brought back. I showed them to him. He picked up one and looked at it in the light and then rolled it over in his fingers. He said, “This is an alloy of copper. It is a much better, stronger metal. I should like to know, when you return, what the alloy is.”
We drank our wine and talked about this fellow, Dust Man, and the manner of construction the stone masons employed in building the basements. This reminded me of one other artifact, the site map. I produced the last two maps from our reconnaissance. I unfolded the site map and shared it with Alnifolia. We identified the buildings we already knew and he pointed out a few more they had found, but there were other buildings not yet found. He wondered if they had missed them or if they had been built before the owners deserted the place.
Then we looked at the large area map. I turned it the right way and showed him the major geographical features. The sword mountains and these woods were used to orient the map, and then I showed him the stream that runs from Pine Mill to Stonebridge to Grain Mill. And once we were oriented, we could consult the map for what lay beyond. I told Alnifolia I was going to make two copies of this map for myself and then turn it over to the Magistrate. On one copy I would add the current features, the roads and towns I knew about, to allow me to use it to convey information to others in these modern times. But I was going to leave one map alone except to make my mark and when I learn of it, a date when this map was likely produced. Alnifolia asked if I would be so kind as to make a copy for him before I departed and I simply replied asking for the time and supplies to make the copy.
At this, Jackwon said, “And how long will that take? I’d like this journey to be over so I might have my pay and move on.” I replied, “Jackwon, how much did you derive from your last adventure? The one that led you as far as Stonebridge?” He hesitated and replied, “We were paid 200 gold pieces to rid them of their kobolds and bugbear.” And I replied, “Each?” And he dipped his head and then looked back up with fire in his eyes and said, “No, we!” Vallen held up his hand to ask Jackwon to calm down. Then he said, “Jackwon, the sword I hope to keep from this adventure is worth more than 200 gold. Your axe, likewise, is worth more by itself. And I am sure Bene means to give us coin too. Now in addition to getting the 200 gold from our previous employer, we had expenses to get there and then on to Stonebridge. Bene is only asking a little patience in light of our success here. Is that not reasonable? You’re not feeling any hardship. You are getting hot meals, clean water, little labor. Is another day so much to ask?” Jackwon sat silently and Gillfort chimed in with, “Yes, well Bene said it was two days over here, two days to spend here and two days back. Tomorrow is the second day. Are we asking so much for Bene to live up to our agreement?” Vallen replied to this saying, “And what is your hurry? You wish to come right back here still. Is another day here now so uncomfortable compared to the pleasures you will have when you return? You are coming back here to work with the Druids. Will working here with your Druid friends be so much better when you answer to Alnifolia than answering to Bene? Bene has been very generous with all of us if you think back on how he was treated by us when we first met. And setting that aside, if you must, has he not been a friendly master on this trip? He has certainly taken more risk than he expected of any of us.” And with that remark he turned his head at Jackwon.
Alnifolia broke in saying, “I bet Bene gets a copy made quicker than you think. Now let’s clean up and get some rest. Palustris, see to the watch schedule. Bene, let’s see what I have in the office to help you get started. We have an interesting day ahead of us. Oh, Palustris, please have these discovered weapons brought to my study.” And with that, Alnifolia stood up and left the room for his study and I stood, nodded to everyone, and followed him. I could hear Jackwon burst out at Vallen about this as I walked away. Vallen replied, “And Bene’s rapiers were also claimed. So what’s your point?” And he replied, “You were just saying the weapons were worth …” And Vallen, uncharacteristically cut him off saying, “And if you might be more patient and hold your tongue, you would probably leave here with a new axe. Maybe we can persuade Bene to bring us another tomorrow.”
Arriving in Alnifolia’s study we sat down and got out our pipes again. We filled two cups with the fine tasting water and relaxed a moment. He said, “Jackwon is a piece of work. Now you know why I kept your two rapiers here.” I heard him say “your two rapiers” and felt better. I asked a tangential question. “What do you plan to do with the swords, axes and daggers then?” Alnifolia said, “I plan to keep theme here. I will ask Palustris to select a sword and an axe from the remaining stock down there and offer them to those two. Then we’ll see what happens.”
He went on, “I know I can trust you, Bene, to live up to your agreements. I can see we will enjoy the trust that comes with a strong friendship, and the friendship that is founded on strong trust. You will return soon with a good shipment of spices for us. You will leave here with payment for your services, enough to cover you and your escort, for we have learned the way is not so domesticated as we may desire. And, you will leave here with one of these rapiers. And on your next trip you will leave here with the other. We have no need for these so why shouldn’t you have them? Of course, we could be so crass as to sell them for their aesthetic value, but that would be a shame under the circumstances. We are not so poor of pocket to need them. And we are not so poor of spirit as to do that to you.”
“But, we will keep these also.” He indicated the other weapons. “And we will make a show of keeping them without letting on how good it might be for the pure of heart. Your friends have the same opportunity. If they return with spices for us, they will leave with their choice of these weapons. After one year, we may give them to whomever we please. We might still have them if they returned so late, and we might not. I ask that you keep this secret from everyone else. Let it be on their own merit that they receive these weapons. And it will prevent any covetous official in Stonebridge from claiming them by the power of the Magistrate. Envy, greed, covetousness, these are forces that bend the will of men to do those things they are ashamed to pronounce.” And he puffed on his pipe in silence.
He reached around and produced a large sheet of parchment, and the pens and inks needed to copy the map. He produced a small scrap of paper for himself. As I finished my pipe I knocked it out. Then I set it on the shelf and arranged things so that I might begin copying the map. I thought on his wisdom while I worked. He took a pen and made a few small scribbles on his scrap of paper. He showed them to me and said, “Use this symbol to indicate Stonebridge, this one for Pine Mill, this one for Wool Corner, this one for Grain Mill, this one for Smallarfolk. Use this symbol to indicate these ruins. Do not write any names on the map. I have this bottle of green ink. Use it for the wooded areas. Mark the oak forest with this line edge and stippling. Mark the pine forest with these. Here I have a bottle of blue ink. Trace the trail of the brook from Pine Mill through Grain Mill with the blue ink. Use this line style. This bottle of ink is a dark red. Show the sword mountains using this ink. Do not mark the roads or bridges on this map. I will copy them on there myself.” I was fascinated to learn he had tinted ink, and as I used it I found it was very high quality ink indeed.
He watched as I worked and occasionally remarked at the quality of my lines. He found them to be very even and the borders of the forests to be drawn in the line style so even that you could not decide if I started at this end or that. A less careful scribe becomes tired of tedious copying so that the end of a long pattern is more hastily drawn and a less experienced scribe begins with a less regular style and learns it as he goes. There is a pace and a practice for doing this work if you are willing to maintain good quality. I have always wanted my work to appear as mine without the need for a signature. These tinted inks just made it even more attractive. As it got a little later I said, “I think I should wrap it up for the night and get some sleep.” Alnifolia replied, “Yes, I think you’re right. No mind what I said about the secret. We’ll finish the map tomorrow.” And with that I handed over the pen and stood up. I went out and left him to clean the pen and put the things away.
Outside I found Vallen. I asked about the watch and he replied that Dravist is taking this watch, and Jackwon will take the next before turning in for the night. He said he had the last watch before we were to get up. I asked about Gillfort and he said, “Oh, they are taking the other three watches.” I replied, “So you consider Gillfort lost?” He responded, “Well, don’t you?” I said, “If we treat him like he belong to them, he will certainly. But if we want him to think it over before committing to it, we have to treat him like he is one of us. Do you see?” Vallen nodded his head and said, “Yes. Sorry.” I clapped him on the shoulder and said, “No bother.”
I told Vallen I was going to hit the blankets and he said, “That sounds like a good idea. Jackwon has made a warming fire for us. The men on watch have all been told to keep it going for us. There is an unseasonable chill in the air.” And I headed off to prepare for bed. Vallen went over and spoke quietly to Jackwon and then over to his gear where he removed his mail and prepared for bed himself. Jackwon threw a few more logs on the fire and it blazed up. Exhausted from some of the emotional challenges of leadership this day, I fell into a deep sleep.
In the morning, I woke early. I laid there deciding if I should try and drift back to sleep but I couldn’t suppress the urge to wake and take care of business. I stumbled off to the woods and had a look around. I found an armload of sticks and returned placing half of them on the fire. The fire blazed up nicely and I sat with my back to the fire listening to the woods. I heard Dravist stir. I probably woke him by throwing the sticks on the fire. I turned and looked his way. His eyes were open and I guessed he was thinking about the same things as I was a moment ago. He pulled back his blanket and stood up. As he walked away I clicked two sticks together and held them up as a way of asking him to bring an armload of wood when he came back. He nodded and continued to stumble on.
As Dravist returned, with an armload of wood, he sat down and added his wood to the fuel pile. Then it was Jackwon’s turn. He woke up and stumbled off. Since Vallen was on watch I spoke quietly to Dravist since now I wouldn’t wake anyone, Gillfort having taken up residence in the barracks building. I asked, “What will you do this morning while I head back into the basements with Alnifolia?” He replied, “I plan to find a good quarter staff among these trees and spend some time examining the temple some more.” I said, “Please check with the druids before you cut even one limb, OK?” Dravist thought a moment and replied, “OK. I understand.” I said, “I would like to pack up as much as we can today in hope that we get moving tomorrow morning. I am eager to make a report of my findings here to the Magistrate.” Dravist said, “I don’t think there will be any objections from Vallen or Jackwon over that.”
We had breakfast inside and then made ready for the day. Alnifolia was wearing heavy leather garments, as was Palustris. They were carrying small packs, a pouch and dagger on their belts and a quarterstaff in their hand. They also wore brown hoods that covered their shoulders. I was wearing my leather armor, leather pants, adventuring pack, two pouches and dagger on my belt, my rapier and my green hood. I also had a torch to help us get started. I left clear instructions that they should pack up what they could and keep an eye on the chest and our prisoners. With that, we headed to the ruined storehouse.
As we descended the first stairs, I remarked, “It appears the building you are staying in, Alnifolia, was strictly for men at arms and not for the priests of this order. The basements appear to built of higher quality materials and the furniture is better. You will see for yourself. Do you plan to build your own home out here, or do you wish to continue to use the barracks?” He replied, “Hearing what you have shared about the significance of this place, I have been thinking of having a druids longhouse made for our order rather than use these defiled buildings. I think there are some ugly magics involved here, and I wish to separate us from them. We’ll turn this little area over to the Magistrate as an archeological dig and help as guardians so the evil doesn’t return.”
We went through the first door and I walked slowly forward to light the first lantern we left in the corridor. We picked it up and stepped into the first room. It was as before, very large and very empty. Alnifolia looked around and walked the walls. Along the wall opposite the door he tapped and stepped forward and tapped again. He knew the question on my mind and said, “According to your drawing, there is a space behind this wall. There must be a door.” And with that, I began to touch the wall and feel for a crevice or a draft. Alnifolia got to the end of the wall and turned to inspect the stonework of the next wall. As I reached the junction of these two walls I felt something in the joint between two boards. The gap was just a bit wider than the others. I knelt down and saw the stone and the wood had a gap. I stood and looked up where the top of the door should be but there as nothing to see.
Palustris asked, “What have you found?” I said, “Here, feel this? The gap in the boards is almost a finger wide. Feel this, and this and this? All the others are not even wide enough to think that.” I pointed down with the torch in my arm, which put better light on the floor. “See the gap in the stone and wood. See how it is different from the wall over here? This is a door. But how does it open and is it trapped?” And with that remark, Palustris stepped a step away from the door. I turned and held out the torch. “Hold this for me, please.” And he took hold of the torch. I fumbled and found a splinter of wood. I lit the splinter in the torch, turned and blew it out.
As the smoke trailed away from the splinter, I very slowly traced it along the joints in the wood. I had to reach back and repeat the process twice. Alnifolia had completed his walk and had stepped over to join us. As he looked on he said, “You’re a bard, Bene?” And I smiled. “Yes. But I’ve learned a few other tricks along the way.” He said with a bit of laughter in his voice, “You’re the most roguish bard I’ve ever met.” I replied with a bit of mirth in my voice, “We Bard’s in the service do what we have to do. Not everyone wants to give us the information we seek. We sometimes have to find out for ourselves.” And I found the spot I thought might have a lock or device. There was a prominent knot in the wood. The board was finished just as smooth as any other, but the knot disturbed the smoke from my splinter. I said, “I would like a narrow rod. I believe this knot is a button that activates a lock or something. If it is trapped with a needle, I’d rather not get stuck by it.
Alnifolia placed the lantern he was carrying on the floor and handed me the rod he used to carry it. I placed the butt end of the rod on the knot and gave it a push. There was a satisfying click and the knot receded an inch. Nothing happened. I used the rod to press on the wall and the door swung away from me. An awful odor came from the room so that we all coughed and then some rats came scurrying out. I was startled and stepped back a few steps in a hurry. Palustris waved the torch at the rats and they darted away. Alnifolia, with the reflexes of a cat, smashed two of them with his quarterstaff, and they let out an awful wail and screech.
We heard something else in the blackness moving but we had no idea what it might be. I said, “Dust Man?” There was a moan of wind or something in reply. Alnifolia and Palustris turned their heads to me and I shook my head, “No.” I drew my rapier in my right hand and put the iron rod in my left. I hooked the lantern with the rod and moved it to the side where it would cast light into the dark chamber. There was a shadow that moved in the light. Alnifolia had placed his staff in his left hand in a guarding stance and was holding out his right hand with his fingers spread out. With his arm extended I could see he had a bracelet of holly wrapped around his wrist.
A flame shot forward from his hand extended a few feet and he walked into the room using the light. I lifted the lantern and Palustris brushed by me following Alnifolia. I came behind them and stood in the swing of the door. There were three shadows in the room which was about thirty feet wide and long enough to extend beyond our light. Alnifolia aggressively went forward at the figure on our left. It darted to the left and right trying to avoid the flame, which extended a full five feet forward from Alnifolia’s hand. I could see a few other figures in the faint light of his spell, Palustris’ torch and my own lantern. We had to push into the room to give ourselves room to fight but we also needed to maintain control of the door in case we needed to withdraw. I moved the lantern forward a little and set it down. Then I wrenched another torch from my pack and lit it by the flame of the lantern. I began to recite an epic poem of a fight to vanquish the undead to inspire my companions and to try and settle my nerves.
I moved forward a little staying close to the door. I waved my torch and this seemed to keep my foes at bay. I called out, “What are these things?” Alnifolia called back, “They move like shadows but they are something else. They can’t seem to attack us through the light. I’m not sure what they are.” I said, “Don’t get too far away. I’m trying to hold the door for our escape.” Palustris called out, “Yes, my master. I can’t cover the ground between us safely. You need to move back to the right so we don’t get separated. They’ll surround us if they can.” Alnifolia called back, “I understand. But we have to deal with these things sometime. Palustris, use your magical fire. Let’s knock one of these things out. I want to see how much it takes to kill one.”
Palustris threw his torch down and switched his staff into his off hand. Then he extended his own hand forward in the manner of Alnifolia and flames shot forward. He began to sweep the room in front of him. The ghost in front of Alnifolia retreated into the darkness and Alnifolia mover quickly to his right and caught another one facing off against Palustris. I focused on Alnifolia hoping to direct my inspiration to him to boost his damage. Suddenly there was a shriek and the ghost facing them withered toward the floor. Alnifolia made a pushing motion with his arm and the flame shot forward about sixty feet, as far as we could see, and then it burst into an expanding globe of fire. I believe there were seven more creatures caught in the light and the expanding flames.
As quickly as he did that, he had another flame ignited and was sweeping the room again. I heard another shriek but could not see the ghost. Then I realized one of them was sliding up on my right in the dimmest light at the ceiling. I quickly raised my torch in his direction and he froze and swirled about. I called out, “I’ve got one up here trying to get me.” I stepped back closer to the door. I said, “I think he was trying to get out the door.” I swiped the darkness with my rapier and there was no resistance. I couldn’t tell if I did anything at all. I held the torch up and it continued to swirl like black smoke, but it was guided by a will. It made a quick move again to the door and I lunged at it driving the point of my rapier into the wall where it stuck fast in the wood. It let out a shriek. I went after it with the torch while holding the handle of my sword. Again, there was a shriek. And then Palustris called out, “Bene, watch out.”
Another ghost like figure had worked its way between me and Palustris and was close on my left between us. I called out a scream, “Aaaahh! Ahh!” and swung my torch in my left hand wildly to keep it away from me. Paulstris called out, “Master, we must move right. Bene is in trouble.” And he quickly came to me and swung his quarter staff through the figure. He couldn’t use the fire because it would engulf me as well so he suddenly knelt down and launched his fire as Alnifolia did a moment ago. It flew through the room and burst into a ball of orange flame expanding into the creatures. Then with both hands he swung his quarter staff at the smoky figure violently delivering blows against nothing. I looked at the one I seemed to have pinned and took a stroke at it with my torch in my left hand and then swung it quickly back to my right.
We seemed to have this one caught between us, but with my rapier stuck in the wall I was hampered. I didn’t want to lose control of the one I had but I couldn’t fight the one on my left unless Palustris drove it toward me, something I wanted to avoid. I couldn’t tell if it was fight me or him so I couldn’t see if I had any opportunity to attack it. Meanwhile Alnifolia was trying to keep Palustris’ weak side from being attacked while he fought the ghost between the two of us.
I decided I had to commit to one or the other so I took my torch and drove it into the shadow pinned on the wall. I left the torch there and it shrieked. After a few seconds the swirling stopped and it melted away from my rapier and fell to the floor. I used all my strength and wrested my rapier free. Then I swung the torch around to my left and the other shadow shrieked. I surmised it had given its full attention to Palustris so my strike came as a complete surprise to it. It melted away. I called out, “Let’s get out of here!!” Alnifolia replied, “OK!” I stepped through the door into the other room. I threw my torch down and looked back inside to see how I might get the lantern out.
I called in saying, “I’m coming to get the lantern!” Palustris replied, “Fine. Quickly!” He was back up in his defensive stance with flames shooting from his hand. I found the iron rod I needed laying on the floor and sheathed my rapier. I picked up my torch and held it in my left hand so I could use my better hand to grab the iron rod and hook the lantern. I watched them and shot in when it appeared they were prepared to cover me. I grabbed the iron rod, hooked the lantern and stepped back into the supply room calling out, “I’m clear.” Alnifolia called back, “OK Palustris! Go!” Paulstris shot his flame forward and a big ball erupted to more screams. He came through the door. Alnifolia glanced over and back. He threw his flame at them and lunged to grab the torch still burning on the floor. With it in his hand he stepped over to the door. He tossed his staff through the door, reached out and grabbed the door to swing it closed behind him. He came through the door and there was a solid “bang” as it came to rest in the door jam. I was so drained I dropped to one knee holding the torch. Palustris stepped over and looked at the door to see if it latched closed.
Alnifolia was the first to speak. “Well, that was something.” Palustris turned to him and said, “How many Master?” Alnifolia said, “We seemed to incapacitate five of them, but I’m not sure they are finished. They seemed to hate the light more than fear the damage of our weapons or spells. Bene, how much damage did you do to the one you pinned against the wall?” I was still breathing heavily and suffering from the adrenalin. I just looked back at him while I sucked in air. Palustris produced his waterskin and gave me a drink. I thanked him. I began to catch my breath and said, “What in the planes of hell were those … things?”
Alnifolia said, “I believe those were something related to shadows. They are very dangerous.” I puffed a spurt of nothing and recovered and said, “You think?!!” Palustris said, “How many total, Master?” Alnifolia replied very matter of fact, “I thought there were nine or ten, but as we threw the fire into the middle of the room I couldn’t count the number. I think fifteen or sixteen. If we killed five, we could take them down in another two attempts. I’m just not sure we killed them.” “Another two attempts?”, I said. “Are you crazy?” Alnifolia smiled at me and said, “Buck up, my friend. You sure showed that one who was boss. Now, how much did you do against him? I could see you had him pinned with your rapier. I wonder how lucky a strike that was. They didn’t seem to have form so however you pinned him must have been a lucky strike.” “Lucky”, I said. “You call that lucky?” And he replied, “Well, yea, I do. Don’t worry. I won’t describe it that way to your friends.” I hung my head down and chuckled. How he described it to my friends was the last thing on my mind.
I thought about it and finally answered his question. “If it were a man, I struck it once by a thrust, pinning it to the wall. I slashed completely through it but that didn’t seem to have any effect. And I thrust at it four times, three after it was pinned, full on with this torch. That could be anything from four to six solid strikes. Without form I couldn’t tell if they were solid strikes or not. I sure believe the thrust was solid enough.” Alnifolia nodded his head. He looked about the empty room and asked Palustris, “Are you ready to proceed?” Paulstris replied, “Master?!” Alnifolia replied, “Yes. They don’t like the light. If we have problems, we only need to shine light on them and they will let us pass. Would you prefer that I bring down some of Bene’s friends to watch the corridor up here for us? Bene didn’t have any problems yesterday.” Palustris paused and then said, “Master, if you wish, of course. But yes, I would feel better if they were to help us watch this exit passage.” Alnifolia replied, “Very well. Let me do the talking.” He stepped to the corridor and we gathered ourselves and followed him.
In the corridor Alnifolia asked me to go up and bring Jackwon, Vallen and Dravist over here. I went up the stairs and walked across the courtyard and called for them. They were busy in the camp putting a few things away. I said, “We could use your help. Please?” And I waved my hand for them to come join me. I turned and walked slowly to the stairway and waited for them at the door. Jackwon was first and the other were near behind him. I ducked inside so I could avoid answering questions about the matter.
Alnifolia greeted them and said, “There is something inside a hidden room over behind that wall. It is some manner of undead spirit or something, we’re not sure. We found the hidden door and then we found the spirit. It doesn’t like light, but the room was too big and dark for us to back it into a corner and deal with it. Bene and Palustris would feel better if you would please witch this room and this corridor and keep the lanterns burning so there is plenty of light. Dravist, do you have any holy water or extra holy symbols with you?” Dravist was surprised to be singled out. He replied hesitantly, “Yes, I have several holy symbols of St. Thomas, the avenger. Could you bring me six? Five, if you keep one with you always?” He replied, “Sure.” And off he went. Alnifolia reached over and took the iron rod from my hand. He hooked the lantern and set it in the doorway facing the wall we just escaped. He then handed it to Vallen and said, “There are other lanterns in the mess room, right? Set one lantern in each doorway facing the opposite wall and light it, just in case. Then set three lanterns in this corridor and light them. I’m sure if you have plenty of light you’ll not have anything to worry about.” Vallen went off and Alnifolia asked Jackwon to help him.
They quickly set about with the lanterns. I was sure they didn’t believe they were getting the whole story. They finished up about the time Dravist returned. Alnifolia asked Dravist to give each of us a holy symbol. He told us, “Just keep it in your pocket, just in case. Dravist, if something happens we’re counting on you.” And then he turned to Palustris and said, “Let’s get moving.” They started down the hall and I turned and followed them. I was sure the three of them were shocked that Alnifolia left Dravist in charge, Dravist possibly being the most surprised.
We descended the stairs with me holding a lantern along with Palustris. I had positioned a torch at the top of my pack making it easier to withdraw if needed. We arrived at the door into the pool room and I lit a lantern we had left there the previous day. Alnifolia and Palustris gazed in for a look. I said, “Step back and listen.” I took a step inside counted to two and stepped back. They heard the sound of the rushing water and could see the water churning in each of the pools. I looked at them and said, “I believe they have summoned and trapped two water elementals, one in each pool, to serve as minion sentries guarding the third basement. Alnifolia, you have the pendent. If we walk across together, we should be OK. Then you come back for Palustris and bring him over. I didn’t try to bring two at once.” Alnifolia pulled the pendent from his belt pouch and hung it around his neck. Then he nodded and we walked together across the aisle to the other side. He ignored the sounds of the rushing water. He turned around and escorted Palustris while I lit a lantern on the opposite end of the room. I went down the stairs and lit the lantern at the foot of the stairs and waited. They came along shortly.
I said, “I found Dust Man in this first room yesterday. I would like to find him again so he won’t be frightened by your presence.” Alnifolia said, “Sure. May we wait in the first room. I’d like to take a moment and consult the map and see the weapons you staged in there yesterday.” I replied, “Sure, just let me see if he is in there again. He’s very hard to see. You can see his shadow better than you can see him, but that isn’t so easy either.” I turned and began walking slowly down the corridor with the lantern on the end of my rod. I called out softly, “Dust Man? Bene Timber has come back with other friends. Dust Man? I told you I was going to consult with wise men. Dust man? This is the wisest man near here. His name is Alnifolia.” And I heard movement in the Table room.
Arriving at the door I looked in and made out a shadow of Dust Man on the far wall. I smiled and said, “Dust Man. Are you alright?” Dust Man replied, “Alnifolia? Bene Timber? Fire? Water?” I stepped into the room and brushed off a chair and sat down. I set my lantern on the table. Dust Man said, “Bene? No fire.” I replied, “Dust Man, this is a lantern like yesterday. The fire stays in the lantern, remember? But my companions need the light.” He replied, “I remember. You remember? No fire.” I replied, “Yes, Dust Man. I remember. I will only use candles when I have to. You remember the candles and the lanterns, right?” Dust Man said, “I remember. You remember.”
I asked, “May I bring my companions here to meet you? They would like to meet you and talk to you.” Dust Man said, “No, no, not here. You move lantern. I go over there. Meet and talk over there.” It was hard for me to see but I think he was showing me he wouldn’t be boxed in so he wanted to step down the corridor and talk from out in the corridor. I replied, “OK, we will step into the corridor.” And I stood up and stepped into the corridor holding the lantern. I stepped down the corridor so that Dust Man came out into the corridor between us and he quickly walked over to stand next to me, at my side away from the lantern. I asked Alnifolia to step forward to the door.
I said, “Dust Man, this is Alnifloia. He is a druid Master. He is in charge of the trees I asked you about yesterday. Alnifolia, this is Dust Man.” Alnifolia raised his hand and smiled. Dust Man just looked on. I said, “Palustris, would you step up to the door?” He did and I introduced him to Dust Man. He likewise held up his hand while holding a second lantern in his off hand. I asked Dust Man, “They would like to visit the rooms again as I did yesterday. Where would you like to be while we visit the other rooms?” He looked up at me and said, “I show you.” He touched my hand gently urging me to follow him. I nodded to them and then followed Dust Man. He went down the corridor and turned right where the corridor split. We went into the gallery and he crossed straight to the other side. He tapped on the door of that cell and said, “I will wait here. They stay out. I close door.” Before he closed the door, I said, “Wait just a moment, Dust Man. Has anything happened since I left yesterday?” He replied, “Nothing happened. You made the water noise yesterday. You made the water noise today. I was scared. I don’t like the water noise. Nothing happened.” I said, “I’m sorry about the noise. It happens when I walk across the pool room. I don’t know how to stop it yet.” He nodded his head and had a sad look. He quietly and slowly closed the door.
I paused just a moment and then walked back to Alnifolia. It was a more fearsome experience crossing that distance in this penetrating darkness. I don’t think I had ever stayed in a place underground before and I wasn’t prepared for the depth of the darkness. Yesterday there were other lanterns around. Even though they were not shining on me or in my direction, it helped me to see them how they showed the depth and width of the rooms. It was very unnerving for me to be in such darkness and to know I was so far underground.
Alnifolia was seated at a table with Palustris when I came back. He indicated he wanted me to have a seat too. I brushed off a chair and had a seat placing my lantern on an adjacent table. Alnifolia had cleared one table of weapons and had the map on the table. He complimented me again on the apparent precision I had made the crude map. It appeared to him exactly as I described it with the columns on all the floors separated by thirty feet one way and ten feet the other way.
He pointed to the room where we were seated and said, “According to this map, there should be a room on the other side of that wall you haven’t yet visited. We looked at the wall and didn’t find a door of any kind. But you seem to have a talent for it. Would you have another … careful look?” I said, sure. And I fumbled for another splinter and picked it off the handle of the torch. I stood up and asked, “What do you think of these tables and chairs.” I leaned over and lit the splinter and Alnifolia replied, “They are very fine pieces indeed. Just as you said.” I blew out the splinter and moved to the back wall. The smoke gave no indication of a doorway. I said, “No luck. We’ll have to try somewhere else.” I sat back down with them.
They looked at a few of the weapons we left in the room the previous day. Next, we looked at the map again and I went through the rooms again with them. “The next room is full of books on shelves, so I call it the library. I figure they would come in here to sit and read the books. The room beyond that is the desk room. There are four desks for the four clerics that appear to be needed here in addition to the two senior clerics that ran the settlement. After that is the armory, but there isn’t much to see there anymore because it’s in here. The corridor branches off to the right but the following room is the executive study. At the end of the corridor is a private room for the head cleric.”
Alnifolia said, “Well, let’s go have a look.” And we stood and picked up our lanterns and headed down the corridor. I was in the lead with Alnifolia behind me and Palustris bringing up the rear. I opened the room to the library and stepped inside. I raised my lantern to have another better look at the books. They were obviously very impressed with the number of books and the quality of their preservation. We agreed this could be the most important element of my discovery. It would be some time before we knew what we may learn from the library. We stepped back out into the corridor to the study.
In the study I waited while they made their own examination of the desks. I remarked that I would like to have much of the writing supplies for my work if that was no great issue for them. They said they may take most of the writing supplies but they were sure they could spare some for me. With the library they expected to use the supplies to make many notes as they examined the books. I took them to the back wall and used my smoke trick to show them where the secret door was. Then I raised the door and showed them the dismal condition of the hidden corridor, and then I told them I found the chest at the end of the corridor to the left.
We left the hidden corridor and stepped back out into the main corridor and to the armory. They had a look around in the armory and I decided to have a better look at the army standards still in the rack on the wall. We stepped back into the hallway and I showed them the branching corridor before proceeding to the executive study. I said, “I think you will be impressed with the books in here.” And I opened the door and stepped in with them following. I indicated the desk in the back and said, “I believe that is the desk of the leader and this desk”, I indicated to the other desk a bit closer to the door, “was for his right-hand man.” The two of them did take careful notice of the books on display. Alnifolia stepped behind the “bishop’s desk” and found the ritual implements I noted. He made a point of showing them to Palustris and commented on their quality.
They counted the books and asked for a marking instrument. I could only give them my char stick. They pulled a piece of paper from the desk and sat down to make notes. Palustris made a diagram of the bookshelves and then notes on the number of volumes on each shelf and the colors of the coverings used to bind each book. Finally, they took one book down and transcribed as best they could the appearance of the page, recreating the style of the letters and all that. They wanted it to be sent off for examination to determine what language the books were written in, which would go a long way toward determining who made this place.
Alnifolia again referenced my map and said, “Is there another hidden corridor behind this wall?” I looked and said, “Maybe.” And I produced my smoky splinter and looked along the wall. Indeed, the smoke indicated there should be a door. We tapped here and there and found a door but we couldn’t find how to open it. We didn’t want to force it and damage anything on the other side so we decided to come back to it later. We left everything except for Palustris’ notes and went out to the corridor to visit the “bishop’s private quarters.”
I opened the door and stepped inside and shone the light from my lantern around. They followed and I found some candles to help provide more light to the room. After lighting the candles, I took a seat and let them poke around. They looked about and also noticed the books were more of a personal bent than professional. They agreed his wardrobe indicated he was not much of a traveler but rather an academic that preferred to stay here. What he was focusing on in his work was unclear to us. Was he just an administrator of the facility or was he working diligently on summoning water elementals or other beings, or was he up to something else entirely? We couldn’t read the language of the books so we were left to guess. That problem would be overcome when I got back to Stonebridge. One of the clerics should have a comprehend languages spell that would allow for the systematic study of these books.
I showed them the font or ritual bowl carved into the pedestal and the miniaturized ritual kit this fellow kept in his room. This was very concerning to Alnifolia. It was the strongest indication to him the man was not an administrator but rather that he was practicing the rituals with this kit to perfect his technique. Palustris was also concerned by one book with illustrations of a ritual being performed. They agreed this book and the ritual kit should be taken back to Stonebridge in the first load. Alnifolia said, “I’ll make sure it gets there.” As he looked at Palustris. I realized they were more concerned about this stuff than I realized.
They didn’t wish to disturb anything else so we were soon finished there and out in the corridor again. Now we were moving to the gallery and the dormitory. As we approached the gallery they could see how the space was opening ahead of them and they became nervous. We slowed our progress and they peered into the wide common area that contained the four stone statues. They shone their lanterns carefully about to verify they could find no demons waiting to ambush them. I thought how only an hour ago I followed Dust Man without much thought to the room across the gallery from where we were standing.
They stepped into the gallery and I indicated which rooms we found locked when we made our previous search. They visited each room again as I stood in the gallery as a look-out. They agreed the rooms were simple quarters for each of the clerics. We could see they were cleric’s room because of the robes in the wardrobes and a few books in the rooms. They were each provided paper and writing supplies. I thought they were copying some of the books but it was not easy to tell since I couldn’t understand the language. However, unlike magical writings, these did not appear to be books of incantations and rituals because they were copied in different handwriting. When copying spells, one tends to attempt to copy the manner the spells are written, even the style of the letters. These were not so precise. Therefore I presumed these copies by the clerics were of another nature.
We turned our attention to the statues in the gallery and I pointed out the fine workmanship of the sculptor. I couldn’t believe these were sculptures at all and feared they had petrified clerics for whatever reason. They didn’t appear to be exceedingly old so it appeared to me to be a punishment and not some strange idea of euthanasia. Alnifolia assured me there were sculptors capable of producing these works. Then we turned our attention to the ritual room.
We moved slowly to the ritual room in part because it was a great expanse of room beyond either my dark vision or the light of our torches and lanterns. Alnifolia found this to be disconcerting when he couldn’t see the four walls of a room and all the doorways. He cast a spell that produced a light and pushed the light away from himself to illuminate more of the room. He directed the light this way and that until he was satisfied my map had described the room enough to believe he understood its dimensions. Then he calmly walked to the center of the room.
Alnifolia waved his hand at Palustris who then walked around lighting the torches in the room. There were sixteen torches and they blazed with a dim yellow light and let off a black thin smoke. As an outdoorsman I began to feel uneasy seeing the smoke gathering on the ceiling. I had a deep concern I would be suffocated. But with the torches lit it became easier to look around and understand the room.
The center of the room was dominated by a bright yellow mosaic of the sun. The four directions around the sun were large triangular patches of red, white, blue and brown / grey mix mosaic patterns that immediately gave the impression of the four elements. In the corners of the room other elemental forces were suggested in the artwork including one corner distinctly showing lightning, another dedicated to the moon and one dedicated to plant life. The fourth corner could have been many things but I guessed it was dedicated to magic as an elemental force.
There were water trays attached to the columns that I didn’t understand; glass bowls supported by copper rings that had tarnished to a beautiful green color. The rest of the floor tile of the mosaic appeared to be a vast swirling maelstrom making up the space between the images. The floor was very highly polished and it seemed it went to a depression in the middle of the room, with the sun image forming a mound in the middle of the room. It was clearly designed to be made in this manner but there was nothing coherent about the images beyond the presence of the elements and the sun and moon. It seemed a blend of alchemy, sorcery and worship.
I became increasingly uneasy and asked, “If you’ve seen enough I’d be happy to lead you back to the surface, now.” Alnifolia replied with an edge of mirth in his tone, “You’ve been down here already my elven friend. Must we leave so soon?” I replied, “Yes, I believe we should. Remember the creatures we already faced and we know not what magic forces are at work down here. You can see my map is accurate enough.” And he said, “So it is. But what about that room back there?” And Alnifolia pointed to the last secret room we believed was left to be explored. And I replied, “Some other time perhaps? With more lanterns and less of this smoke?” Alnifolia waved his hand at Palustris who began extinguishing the torches with some effort.
When Palustris was finished I waited for them to come toward the exit, but they did not. Alnifolia walked to the back corner of the ritual room where he hoped to find the door he was seeking and Palustris went with him. They had one torch and one lantern and I stood near the entrance to the ritual room with my lantern. I had to step inside further to keep them inside my visual range. At the wall Palustris tried my burning splinter trick, looking for a door. He came up empty. Alnifolia asked if I would give it a try and reluctantly, I stepped over to help.
I repeated the smoky splinter trick and did not find any ready indication of a door. I wanted to turn and leave for my feelings of anxiety were becoming worse by the minute. Alnifolia placed his hand on the wall and slid his fingers gently over the woodwork. He paused here and there but stepped back and resigned himself to the idea it was going to take a more professional approach. He agreed to leave and I almost ran to the gallery. Once through the gallery I pointed to the beginning of the corridor that lead back out. I asked them to wait at the table room and I would speak to Dust Man before I caught up with them. They nodded and walked away down the corridor. I stepped over and said goodbye to Dust Man and said I wouldn’t be back for some time. I told him only Alnifolia had the keys to come down so he should not be visited by anyone else. I also reaffirmed my promise to find wise men that could get him home. And with that I went to join Alnifolia and Palustris.
At the table room we had a number of weapons and a few new artifacts to bring up. They agreed to bring up another mundane axe and sword for Vallen and Jackwon as a temporary reward for their efforts. We didn’t wish to bring any more weapons or any of the tabards and banners that were still in the armory. We brought back the ritual kit and three books from the bishop’s collection and one book from the other senior administrator’s collection as an example of the transcription process underway when this stopped being a place in use.
We crossed the pool room and went up to collect our guard and left the basements again locked up tight. Topside we went to discuss our find and observations while lunch was being prepared. I sat in Alnifolia’s office with Palustris and we discussed our survey. Alnifolia asked that I resume working on a copy of the maps while we talked. He set me up at the desk in the back of the room so they could set things on the table for examination in the light. Palustris was engrossed in the ritual kit while Alnifolia was engrossed in the books. I asked Alnifolia about the trip back, mentioning his remark about making the trip with me.
Alnifolia replied, “Yes, we shall begin tomorrow morning. We shall all go except for Laevis. He will remain here just to keep an eye on things. We will take everything with us except for the valuable weapons, although I will permit each of you to have one of the jeweled daggers. We will take Marogred and Gough and turn them over to the authorities. And that is where our problem lies. If we take Marogred, anyone in Stonebridge involved with him will learn that part of their plan was sunk. If I show up in Stonebridge questions will be raised about why. If valuable daggers are noticed among your party rumors and stories will spread. All of these things are a problem. But I see we need to work with the empires resources to get to the bottom of this.”
I responded, “I have another way that will at least buy us much time. Could you agree to meet with these officials on the road between Stonebridge and Pines Mill? There we could keep the secret of your involvement and Marogred’s failure for quite some time. The news would probably leak out sometime later after a careless remark by someone, but the great majority of our secret will not become public for a long time and nothing will leak out for many days, I hope.” Alnifolia replied, “That sounds like a good idea, but how will we arrange a meeting with the top officials but attract as little notice as possible?” I answered him saying, “I will use Gough as an excuse to have a military detachment come this way and meet us well outside town. They will need to execute him or have him taken far away in secret just to keep him from spreading the news of what is happening here. He doesn’t know it all, but he knows too much.”
We agreed to pursue this plan and I began to think how I might get the details right. I thought as I worked on my copy. I decided to make up a story that I would need help in rounding up Gough after an escape attempt. I thought we could meet in a place about where we ate lunch that first day after leaving the road to Pines Mill. We could make a camp there for my party with the supplies we had already and the military expedition could bring enough for them as well. I wanted to be prepared to spend a few days together away from any of the towns and far enough from the roads that we shouldn’t be noticed. After this I wanted to establish a supply line for the druids that could also serve as a method of sending experts to their site to help in the study of the ruins. As long as the Magistrate agreed I was sure we could make this work and conceal the facts from the spies that might be in Stonebridge.
After lunch I reviewed my plan with Alnifolia and Palustris and they agreed it was worth a try. I had my party load everything up and Alnifolia and Palustris prepared for a journey of a few days. I spent the remaining time copying documents for Alnifolia as we agreed. We shared the extra weapons with Vallen and Jackwon and we also received an ornate dagger for each one of us. We kept these wrapped in cloth in our packs with an agreement we could not bring them out until we left the province of Stonebridge. Jackwon was particularly outspoken about not receiving at least one of the special axes, but seeing I didn’t receive a rapier and Vallen didn’t receive a longsword, and Dravist and Gillfort were going to receive nothing apart from their daggers and some jewels, he recognized there was little chance of having this decision reversed. I suspected Vallen knew how this would play out to his benefit but he didn’t say anything to Jackwon in front of the others. I knew I would get both rapiers if I only made two trips back to the site with a cart full of spices and tools they could use.
So early the next morning we bid goodbye to Laevis and began our trip back to town. I left one more jar of honey behind so that we had only a partial jar and our rations for the journey. We tied the hands of Marogred and Gough and then had them tied to the back of the cart so they had to walk the distance. I figured this would help them be plenty tired when we got where we were going. We broke through the forest by about midday and stopped for a short break. We sat down and enjoyed a trail meal and got moving again. Again I rode my horse and looked ahead to find the path home.
We made it to the small lake where we stopped a few days earlier. This was the site I wished to use for our meeting with the militia. We made camp and used the extra tarps to make a shelter for Alnifolia and Palustris, with a separate shelter for Gough and Marogred. I was very concerned about them because, Gough especially, they would know they were now possibly enjoying their last hours of their lives. We set the watch and turned in for the night.
55th Planting, 221
The night passed uneventfully thanks to the diligence of our watch and I loaded up my horse and bid my own farewell to the group expecting to return the next day with a military escort. Alnifolia was in charge and Vallen was in charge of our party members. I climbed up on my horse and rode away knowing they had plenty of supplies.
I arrived at Stonebridge shortly before lunch and dismounted my horse and walked him in to town and to the stable. Next I visited the sergeant of the guard and was pleasantly surprised it was Sergeant Stuart on duty once again. He rose as I entered his office and greeted me. I told him I needed to get some help tracking down a deserter I had found on my recent expedition. I then told him I wanted to speak to Lord Martinex about the matter since it was a serious affair to deal with a deserter. He said he would be happy to assist but organizing a detail for this sort of work would require the authorization of an officer. I agreed but asked if he could see to the provisions needed for such an expedition. He said he would discuss it with the quartermaster to help speed things along. I thanked him and took my leave to see the officials in the mansion.
Outside I crossed the way and asked if I might find Thomas Quintus in the temple. He was located and I asked if he would join me in a discussion with the Magistrate, which he readily agreed. On the way to the Mansion he asked about my journey and I said I found some things and didn’t find some things and I might need his help in sorting out the whole matter. He asked about my saddle bags saying they looked rather heavy and were they really necessary for a meeting with the Magistrate. I said something to diminish the importance I placed on them, but I believe Thomas Quintus realized in my answer they were very important indeed.
Inside the mansion I was able to use Thomas Quintus as a shield to proceed directly to an audience with the Magistrate rather than check in with Cottern. We found the Magistrate in the smaller dining area where he ate informal meals with family or advisors. Lord Ballinor was eating with Sir Martinex and brightened up when he saw Thomas Quintus come in. Thomas Quintus said, “Well look what I found.” And Sir Martinex said, “Well, Bene. We were wondering how you were getting along. How are you? Find anything?” Thomas Quintus reached and pulled a chair up for me and then himself and sat down. The Magistrate, still chewing a mouthful motioned with a hand for me to sit down, and Sir Martinex motioned for a servant to bring food and plates.
I sat down and smiled, nodded to the Magistrate and to Sir Martinex, and then began my report. “I have learned more than I bargained for, your lordships. I have learned about the sign but I am afraid I can’t speak of everything I found right here, right now.” And with that, the Magistrate swallowed and said, “Why of course you can.” And I replied, “My lord, I have things to report of great concern and I beg your indulgence to have a private audience, with your lordships of course”, and I nodded to Lord Martinex and Quintus, “before you determine the worth of it.” Lord Martinex stabbed another mouthful and said, “Very well. Have something to eat and we’ll hear all about it.” And so we ate and they spoke of mundane day-to-day stuff of the town.
When we were done the Magistrate said, “Thomas, take him up to my study. We’ll be along in a moment.” Thomas Quintus and I went down a corridor to the back stairway and then up to the Magistrate’s study, where the guard on duty let us in. Thomas asked, “What did you find then, Bene?” I replied, softly, “I found a temple dedicated to water elementals that is the symbol from the pendent. The symbol is prominently displayed on the north wall of the temple. But the symbol itself represents a well and an amphitheater and that appears to be the true center of their worship practice. We found the druids of the deep wood have occupied the ruins of this old cult and they were sitting on a treasure and didn’t know it. Unfortunately for my companions the bulk of the treasure is the numerous books, ledgers, tomes and manuals they have stored in the basement of an old warehouse. I believe the study of these books is possibly the most important service the Magistrate could undertake in support of the Emperor.” Thomas Quintus replied, “Really? How many books? What sorts of books?” And just then the door opened and the Magistrate, Sir Martinex and Andante all entered the study. I turned and bowed to the Magistrate and he strode over to his desk and sat.
He looked up and asked, “Bene, pray tell us what needs you have of secrecy in the mansion?” I began from the most important point. “My lords, we found the druids in the deep wood have occupied a ruined outpost of cult worshipers that followed water elemental magic. The druids were unaware of the nature of the site only recognizing it was some outpost for a defeated and dispersed cult of a long ago age. But with some luck and some help we managed to gain entrance to the basements of the ruined storehouse and found a treasure of books that must be studied quickly and then carefully to determine the identity of the powers that made it a stronghold in the first place. The appearance of the pendants indicates the masters of the cult are attempting to rebuild their power again.” Lord Ballinor replied, “Well, we’ll just have an expedition go and bring back these books and begin our study of them. It doesn’t seem so very difficult an issue to me.” I replied, “Pardon, my lord, but it is complicated because of intruders tied up in the story. First, I will ask your indulgence to accept that this must be kept secret from anyone we can’t trust completely, and this includes members of the community here in Stonebridge. On the way to the druid encampment we crossed paths with a fellow that says his name is Gough. We believe he was a member of the third bears, a military unit, and he is now a deserter. I anticipate you have the information necessary to determine the truth of that once you see him. We had to bring him with us in captivity because his disposition indicated we couldn’t trust him not to attack us in our sleep. Because he was with us, he knows many details of our journey and our findings; more than we can trust to become known in the town here.”
“We then met the druids and among them was an imposter named Marogred. Marogred is a Dwarven Thief that is working with Finlock and some prominent fellow, Petrus, here in Stonebridge. Marogred is in league with these two fellows and knows something of the history of the cult that managed the outpost. He had a pendant and a key we needed to gain entry to the basements where the treasure was stored. We can’t let him come to town and have his companions alerted to the fact that we have gained knowledge of the ruins. Therefore, we have established a camp not one day away from here to hold the two of them so your lordships can determine how best to proceed.”
“I was just telling Lord Quintus that the greatest value in the treasure is the volumes of books stored away. There are hundreds of books there. I believe a great number of them are histories of the cult and the areas they occupy or occupied. Another significant portion of the collection is a set of rituals and religious proverbs they were studying. There were also several ledgers and log books that might describe the logistical details of their operation. Another curiosity is the summoning chamber they built in the basement. That chamber, the temple and the well and amphitheater are all sources of power for the cult and must not be allowed to be reinvigorated.”
“I must also report there were a number of monetary treasures and a few good weapons that we found among the things stored away in the basement. I realize your lordship will want a full accounting of these things as well. We found a chest with a few pouches and boxes of gem stones. There were a few pieces of jewelry in the chest as well as forged arrowheads and I believe a box of poisons in wax sealed vials. There were two sets of ritual devices; cups, pattens and bowls, and ritual knives, that are worth some money as well, but I believe are worth more for their intelligence value in studying the cult. I am carrying one of the ornamental daggers”, and I unfastened and placed the ornate dagger on the Magistrate’s desk, “from the collection, but most of the weapons were mundane, my lord.”
“Also, among the mundane things there were a number of fine pieces of furniture, some good clothes and robes, six beautiful desks and a number of chairs and book cases. In the small armory there were a number of military standards that deserve a look too. We did not find any armor or any weapons of interest to the druids, but I have established a bond with their leader, Alnifolia, a powerful druid master, that he would watch over these treasures while we organize a study team if I would but bring him some spices and basic foodstuffs from time to time.”
“I urge your lordships to come and see what we have hidden away at this campsite, and talk with our two prisoners and Alnifolia, who has joined us on this important journey, and then follow-up with a plan to complete a study of the site. The site is too dangerous for us to do anything else. For example, the clerics that led this cult were able to summon two water elemental guardians that are bound to guard the basement of the temple from intruders. The guardians are still able to perform their duties so it appears they remain bound by the summoning magics still after a few hundred years, possibly. I fear this sort of power can not be ignored when it was so nearly grasped by men of means and power here in Stonebridge. I would not be surprised if the return of Marogred would have started a series of events that could have wrested control of the province from the Empire.” At this remark the Magistrate became quite agitated and said abruptly, “Enough!”
There was a silence and then he said, “Sir Martinex, gather a detachment of sixteen soldiers so we may go hunt down this deserter. We will leave in the morning. I will be joining you. Thomas, I will leave the administration of the town to you while I am away. Do not let Finlock or Petrus leave while I am gone either. Make up any excuse you must. I will have need of a cleric in this expedition. Who do you recommend?” Thomas Quintus replied quickly, “Ovadiah, my lord, of course.” The Magistrate replied, “Very well. See to the arrangements please, Sir Martinex.”
I interjected, “My lords, I have a few items in these saddlebags I would like to show you in private. Is this the proper time?” The magistrate said, “Well, yes, let’s have a look.” I pulled the saddlebags from over my shoulder and opened one side. I placed the book on the table and opened it. I began, “My lords, see how well this book was made? See the lettering? The style of the letters appears crude but not draconic, so I believe it was produced many years in the past; over a century I believe. However, the paper is not as old. I believe the paper is twenty to fifty years old. It is difficult to tell in the conditions where I found it where the paper was being well preserved.” I turned a few pages as I went on. “You can see the writing is neat and even, page after page, but you can also see there are no illustrations, diagrams or maps of any kind. This book was a book of theory or a history of some sort, but one where the audience was expected to know the places already if there are no maps.”
I lifted the dagger. “This dagger is a piece of artwork, not meant for use as a weapon”, and I exposed the blade from the scabbard slowly, “but clearly capable of such use when you inspect the blade and the edge. The other weapons we found were made for combat. The decorated ones were likewise made to be used if necessary.” I replaced the dagger in its scabbard and wrapped it in a piece of cloth and returned it to my saddlebag. “I believe it is necessary not to allow any of the things I found there to be seen in Stonebridge. I do not know what items might indicate to the spies that we have successfully located the Water Elemental Cult’s treasure.” I likewise replaced the book.
I opened my map case and produced one of the maps. This was the local map of the ruins. I pointed to the features as I spoke about each of them. “Here is the direction we approached the outpost as we broke the cover of the trees. The area is generally a peaceful meadow in the thick of the wood. We approached the amphitheater and descended this side on a gentle grade. That brought us to this building, a barracks of militia headquarters made of yellow stone. It was still standing but in need of attention. From there it is a straight line to the well at the center of the compound. I thought the well was a tiny stage but it is a well that produces the purest water I have ever tasted. It appears this was the primary focus of their rituals and not the temple or summoning chamber underground. This well is the meaning of the pendant symbol.”
“Due north of the well lies the temple. There is one great doorway that is aligned with the well. The pendant symbol lies on the north wall. Inside there is an ante room, a wall with one doorway, and the main chamber. The main chamber is decorated with low relief carvings in the white stonework. The ceiling is very high and the northern most quarter of the room is an elevated area for the presiding clergy to lead the rituals. I believe they use the temple on rainy days and they probably celebrate particular special rituals inside when it rains. On the back wall there are odd tablets, one for each of the four elements. The whole of it smells of a heavy mildew odor probably because they have not been there to maintain it and keep it clean. Although some sunlight can get inside, the chambers are lit by torch sconces.”
“Between the temple and the barracks lies the foundation of an old warehouse or supply building. Nothing higher than a stone remains above ground level, but the floor is still intact, and in relatively good condition. We had to dig around to find a stairway leading to basements beneath the ground floor. And what we discovered in these basements indicates this was possibly the most important building at the site, but the cult leaders wanted to keep this a secret. The first basement level is an army barracks in itself. For this reason, we began to believe the barracks building was intended only for administration and officers. The second basement level is devoted to two water elementals that prevent anyone to bearing the pendant from crossing and getting to the lowest level. The bottom level, three stories underground, was the home of the clerics that ran the outpost. There are quarters down there for six clerics and two visitors. There are offices for six clerics. The armory and main library are down there along with the enormous ritual room; a ritual summoning room we believe.”
I indicated other building outlines on the map. “We didn’t stay to confirm if these other building existed or were planned at the time this map was drawn. The courtyard was finished in large smooth stones aligned on an east-west axis and there was an obelisk standing here with markings for a sundial.” I put this map away and produced the region map. I spread it out on the table and paused for each of them to recognize it.
I placed my finger on the map where Stonebridge lay and said, “Here is Stonebridge. The road to Pines Mill follows this creek up to about here. The same creek continues on to Grain Mill and beyond. The road to Wool Corner runs from here to Stonebridge and down to Smallarfolk, which is about here. The Outpost is located here, very near the center of the Deep Wood. We traveled up the road to Pines Mill and branched off about here. We proceeded up this way and camped at the edge of the wood the first night. Half a day following we were at the Outpost. Our party retraced this route and they are camped here. I left early this morning and arrived in town just before lunch.”
“I don’t know what your maps of the region beyond your four villages shows, but I thought this map could be very helpful in expanding your cartography. I know there are orcs operating in this area. I can see this range here is the Sword Mountains. There are stands of trees and waterways on this map that are beyond my knowledge. The two lakes you have made, here at Stonebridge and down in Grain Mill were not created when this map was made, nor any of your settlements. And I have learned from Andante that there is probably other information shown on this map that I haven’t found yet. I plan to copy all these maps and leave one with your Lordship and send a second back to the capitol.”
“I believe we need to make sure these two criminals never see a settlement again so they won’t spread the stories of what I have seen. I believe we can trust my adventuring companions, but a reward would help cement their loyalties. The druids are likewise not going to betray us because their entire mission rests on being left alone to complete their work. If we wished to cement their loyalty it would only take a supply wagon every two weeks, maybe less. They would also appreciate a few additional druids to help in their task. If the Empire were to find three or four and help them as far as the outpost, I’m sure their leader Alnifolia would be a source of unending help with an expedition sent to complete a study.”
“But the real problem I see is keeping an expedition quiet and supplied while the study is going on and the participants quiet when it is concluded. I believe there are bards employed by the Empire for these tasks, but this will take a great deal of support, and Stonebridge will be called upon to manage the support. In the short term, we should visit the campsite I mentioned. The druids could return free of any unwelcome travelers or guests. Soon after a military expedition could travel to Wool Corner, as they do often enough; however, this expedition would then circle around and connect with the druids from this direction. They could provide security to help prevent wanderers from accidentally stumbling into the ruins. A small group, for that is likely all we could manage initially, of experts could begin the study of the storehouse basements. Later a more established support and study program could be built.”
“There is so much information to discuss. I hope I have remembered the most important parts, my lords.” And with that I bowed and waited. Andante slapped me on the back. He said, “If you weren’t working for me, the Magistrate would put you in charge of the whole project, I bet. My lordship, Bene has a solid plan and has figured out most of the real thorny issues. How do we get this done and how do we keep this quiet? How do we supply such a mission and who do we put in charge? But first things first. We need to make a show of leaving to deal with a deserter and we need to figure out what to do with this fellow, uh, Marogred?” And I nodded.
Sir Martinex added, “We need to get out there quickly but tomorrow morning is best so we don’t appear anxious beyond expectations. The Governor and I would not run out of town just to lead a search for a single deserter. We must wait for the morn. Even so, we would send a lieutenant and eight men for such a task normally. But I think we can sell the idea the governor and I will make the journey just on the basis of making an overdue tour of the province to check on the well-being of the citizens and the land. The supply and the secrecy that comes next is the delicate part. We’ll discuss it more over the next few days.”
The magistrate added, “Andante, do you think you should come along on this trip or take immediate steps to speed word of it to the Emperor?” Andante bowed and replied, “I believe another day for me to gather better information about the matter will be best.” The magistrate said, “Very well. You are staying in the mansion anyway, but we don’t want things to be any more unusual, so I will need to ask you, Bene, to stick to your routine and stay in the Green Hawk this evening. Andante, make plenty of time to talk with Bene, but make sure you are discrete about this matter. You’ll have to spend some time over at the Inn as well.” And Andante bowed saying, “It will be my pleasure, my lord.” And with that, he touched my on the arm and indicated with a nod of his head we should leave them to discuss this. I gathered up my map and put everything away.
Outside in the hallway he said to me, “Head over and make your arrangements for tonight. I’ll be over in a minute.” I replied to him, “I would like to hear how my new armor is coming along, and I would like to restock my supplies of spices for traveling since I have a great deal of travelling ahead of me. Can you tell me about the fellow named Petrus?” Andante replied, “Ah, yes, you haven’t met him yet. He is the richest merchant in the province. He is the horse trader here in Stonebridge. He also owns the cart and wagon maker’s shop and the tack and harness shop. He also has quite an interest in the leather goods and livestock trades. But he does not bother in politics everyone says. He will attend dinner at the Governor’s mansion when he is bidden but prefers to run his own network involving the commerce captains of the province and his contacts elsewhere. I was going to have to tell you about him later but now later is today. Go see about your business and I will come talk to you this evening at the Hawk.” We shook hands and I departed to see Tony.
Outside on the porch of the mansion I looked about and didn’t see anything unusual about the activity in the street. I was happy my effort to keep things quiet appeared to be working well enough. I strode over to the Hawk greeting everyone cheerfully as I would on any other day. I arrived at the Hawk, removed my hat and opened the door. My eyes adjusted to the light and my nose to the smell. The inn still smelled of a recently cooked dinner, wood smoke and ale. Being out in the wilderness had cleared my head of all these thoughts.
Tony heard the door and stepped out from behind a door. He saw me, smiled and called out, “Bene! Good to see you. Are you going to be back for a few days again?” I smiled and said, “I’m fine, Tony, thanks for asking.” And Tony smiled back and nodded his head. He said, “Good, good. Should I have your things brought up and have your bed made? You would probably like to wash off the dust and rest, yes?” I replied, “Yes, I am staying tonight. I would like to play at the hearth and I would like to wash off the dust, but I don’t have time for a rest. I want to check on my clothes I bought from Isabell and pick up some spices. I’ve run through mine and I need to take another trip. Would you please have my trunk brought up and my bed made. I will go up and wash myself off and then I must do a little shopping.” And with that I was already about to ascend the stairs. Tony called behind me, “Of course, of course. It will be up in a moment.”
At the top of the stairs I looked carefully at the hallway and then walked quietly to my room. Just to make sure, I knocked softly on the door before placing my key in the lock. There was a satisfying “click” and then I pushed the door open. The room was as I left it. I stepped inside and placed my saddle bags on the chair. I poured water from the pitcher into the bowl and then pulled a cloth from a saddle bag. I washed off my skin using the cloth and put my shirt back on. I had no other clothes to change into so I had to put the old shirt back on.
I stepped out into the hallway and listened while I was buttoning my shirt. I couldn’t hear anything unusual so I finished dressing and pulled the saddle bags back over my shoulder. I couldn’t let them out of my sight unless they were under guard. I realized I would need to get some help from Andante or a member of the guard. I backed out of the room and locked the door and turned to walk down. Half way down the stairs I met Tony. “Tony”, I asked, “we have the only two keys for that room, right?” Tony said, “Oh, sure Bene.” I reached out and put my hand on his forearm, “Tony, this is very important. Just two keys? Not your wife, not your daughter? Nobody?” Tony looked at my hand and then up into my eyes with a look of concern on his face. He said, “No Bene. Just your key and mine. Andante used the room before, but now they keep him in the mansion when he comes. You have Andante’s old key to Andante’s old room.” I removed my hand and let out a breath of air. I said, “Sorry. Good.” I thought quickly of something to say that he would easily believe. “With all the money I have made here, I’m getting worried. I haven’t been anywhere to deposit the money and I’ve never carried so much on me before. Now please don’t say anything to anybody about it.” The look of worry washed off his face and his smile returned, “Sure thing, Bene. No problem.”
Out in the town I headed over to see George, the Armor Smith. I was wearing my ornate leather armor with the red colored pauldrons but without the faulds and I had my saddlebags draped over my right shoulder. My excursion into the basements made me think I may just have to have a helmet made for these adventures. I knocked and entered his shop and he was busy fussing with something that had several parts. He appeared to be struggling with getting the parts lined up so he could punch a hole through them all. He looked up at the sound of the door and recognized me, or his armor, and called out, “Well, how have you been?” I replied, “I’m doing OK, but as much as I like this armor, I was hoping you would have good news to share about the other set; the studded leather armor.” He replied, “Just a moment. I’ve almost got this.” And he pinched it down with one hand and raised some sort of mallet and gave it a sudden strike <thwamp> and then let it go. He fished about and found a wooden peg and pushed it through the several layers and left it sitting on the table.
He waved the back of his hand at me saying, “Why don’t you take that off so we can see how this other set fits. Remember when you came in, I said you would need to come by to have it fitted.” I replied, “Yes, I do remember something that sounded like that. But I was called away for a few days. We’ll just have to make do with the time we have.” He raised his eyebrows as he lifted up the new cuirass and said, “And I’ve heard something that sounded like that before too. Do you need some help with that?”
I was fussing with the buckle under my arm and he came over and unfastened it and it slid off. He held the new armor up high and I slipped my arm, neck and other arm through the opening at the base while he slipped it down to my waist. He said, “Now how does it feel?” I said, “It feels very stiff.” And George replied, “Well of course. It hasn’t been broken in yet. You’ll have to wear it for days before it starts to lay naturally on your chest and shoulders. Every piece of armor knows who its owner is. Do you feel any pressure points where the studs are set to reinforce the plates?” I moved my arms a bit to make the armor slip against my torso and I probably looked like a broken windmill. I replied, “There is a spot here”, and I pointed to a spot an inch below my pectoral muscle and each side, “and here”, when I pointed to the same spot on my back just below the bone, “that I can feel some pressure from the way the armor lays.”
He stepped back and looked at me. Then he extended his arm and rested his finger on the armor and said, “Right here?” And I replied, “Yes”, and pulled away quickly, “right there.” He brought his hand to his chin and looked. He held up his arm and urged me to turn around so he could look at the back. He rubbed his hand on the armor in the back and said, “Is it here also?” I replied, “Just a bit closer to my backbone. Yea, right there.” He put his hand to his chin again. “How’s the rest? Any problems anywhere else?” I replied, “No, I think it fits very well. It just has those hard points against my ribs.” He replied, “OK, can you slip it off?” It wasn’t really a question.
I pulled it off and he picked it up and looked inside and felt inside for the spots I mentioned. He found what he was looking for and said, “Well that’s pretty good. There are twenty-six studs and you only felt four that bothered you. That shouldn’t take to terribly long to fix.” Then he held it up for me to see the front and asked, “What do you think about the look of it?” I replied, “Well, it looks very straight. Uh, ordinary, or utilitarian.” He took on a disappointed look in his face and replied, “Well I’m not one of those elven smiths that lives three hundred years and has time to make it all fancy. I’ve got other customers, and …” I interrupted him and said, “I don’t think anyone wears studded armor to get noticed. Don’t mind that. I want to know it works and will fit well enough that I will still be able to move about”, and I held up my hand as if I were fencing. He just shook his head.
Then he said, “Well let me fiddle with it a bit and you come back tomorrow.” I replied, “I do not expect to be in town tomorrow but I will be back in another day or two after. I have to guide the army squad to a suspected deserter. That may take a day, or two, or three. But I’ll be back after that business is sorted out.” He shook his head again, “So you have customers too.” And I replied, “Well, yes, I guess I do.” And he concluded with “Well I’ll work on it and you come back soon so we can see if I got it. Meanwhile, you may want to go talk to Moses about getting some softening oil to put on this armor. It will help you get it to sit right on your frame. Make sure you ask for softening oil or he’ll sell you lamp oil and you sure don’t want that all over you.” I nodded my head and repeated, “Softening oil. OK.” I slipped back into my other armor and he helped me fasten it properly so it would sit right. I grabbed my hat and my saddlebags and went back out into the street.
I decided to stop by and talk to Ben for a moment. Ben was brushing my horse when I stepped into the stable. He heard me coming over the other noises and called out, “Who is it?” And I called back, “The apple fellow.” And Ben looked up and got a smile on his face. He asked me, “How have you been Bene, uh, my lord?” I smiled at him and said, “Oh fair. How about you?” And he replied, “Pretty fair, my lord.” And he resumed his brushing while we talked. “What can you tell me about getting a new bridle or saddle?” And he pinched his eyebrows down and said, “Why would you want to do that? These things of yours are in good condition.” And I replied, “Oh, I was thinking of a gift for a friend. Where could I get leather goods for a horse? The leather worker didn’t seem to have any on display.” Ben replied, “Oh, yea, that’s another shop. The leather worker does saddlebags and pouches, belts and all sorts of stuff, but the horse tack is done by Henry. He’s real good at it too. But there is nothing fancy about it. He doesn’t do the decoration stuff. You’ll have to go to the shop on the street just after you came into town. You went right by it when you got here.” I replied, “Is his shop open during normal times?” And Ben replied, “Oh sure, I guess so. Of course, I don’t buy any of that stuff.”
I wasn’t getting any of the sort of information I wanted to get. I wanted something good that I could use to allow me to talk about Petrus and get other people talking more about it. I wanted some knowledge about this fellow before I talked to him. But I didn’t want to bring up Petrus’ name directly. So I was trying to beat around the bush and get something else. I decided to try again.
“These carts”, I began again, “are well made. The four I’ve seen the clerics use are the same sort of construction as the one we took out of town a few days ago; the one the army loaned me. Where did the Magistrate go to acquire them?” Ben answered, “Oh, I’m sure he got them from the local cartwright. He has a shop between the merchant row and the carpentry guild hall. Everyone seems to like his work. Nobody around here would go anywhere else to get one, not that there is anywhere else to go.” I responded, “There are no other cartwrights in all of the province?” Ben answered, “No, I don’t believe so. None that I have heard of.” This wasn’t getting me anywhere either. I thought of one more approach.
“Where is the merchant’s guild hall in Stonebridge?” Ben said, “I don’t believe there is one. Of course, I’m not a merchant. I work for the Magistrate so I would not need to speak to anyone among the merchant’s guild unless I was treated unfairly by the merchants, and that doesn’t happen in Stonebridge. We have good folks here. Everyone knows everyone else and there’d be consequences if someone were treated poorly. No need for that.” I asked, “Where do the merchants get together to meet?” Ben thought and then said, “I’m not sure. I suppose they could gather in the Green Hawk and talk, but they’d want to do that in the morn or mid-day. It would be too noisy and pushy for them to meet in the evenings, you know. In the evenings, they might talk over at Pertus’ home. That’s big enough I’d wager. He has such a big home and I hear it is even finer on the inside as it is on the out. Mind you, I’ve never been inside. But it is a fine place from the outside, an you can see that for yourself.” Now I was getting somewhere.
“Petrus, who is he that he has such a fine house? I’ve not heard of him.” Ben smiled at me and said, “You are still pretty new around here, I forgot, uh, my lord. I beg your pardon. Petrus is the richest merchant in Stonebridge, and even the whole province. He owns the horse farm over by the bridge. He convinced the previous governor to allow him to dam up the creek and make a pond. At the pond he keeps his horses and he has rights to grazing land all to the east of town. He has eight buildings including his house. He also is related to the fellow that grazes cattle just south of the river. He has rights to the cow hides when the animals are slaughtered so he furnishes them to the leather workers in town. He also owns the tack shop and the cartwright’s shop. They work for him. He also has contacts outside the province where he is able to get dyes and other things. He sells the dyes to the leatherworkers and to the loom in Wool Corner. I believe he has some sort of business relation with just about every merchant, save the open markets, in Stonebridge.” I was surprised how much Ben knew about this man’s enterprise so I asked him, “Ben, how did you come to know all these things?” He replied, “Well, I guess it’s because just about everyone knows about it. You see, my lord, he was here before nearly everyone else. I hear when they built the stone bridge the Emperor had decided there would be a town here. I don’t know why he decided, but it was decided. And after that was decided, Petrus came here and spoke with the Governor and said he wanted to have a horse farm here to supply horses to the military. After they talked, Petrus had an agreement for his grazing rights and permission to own the piece of land on this side of the bridge but the other side of the main road that goes up to the mansion. He was the first merchant in the area so he developed close relations with the previous governor.”
“Petrus helped get the supplies needed to build the governor’s mansion. You see, back then the governor didn’t even have a mansion. When the first governor came here they set up tents and lived in tents until they built the structures. The first building was the guardhouse over at the edge of town. I figure the governor moved in there and used it for his office for a spell. The second building built was the barracks next to it and the storehouse was completed soon after. After these buildings were all built, they started on building the temple, the shrine, the mansion, the stone bridge and the guardhouse next to the stone bridge. It was about this time the clerics came to Stonebridge, but Stonebridge was mostly a military outpost still. As some of these buildings completed, the governor agreed to let a guildhall be built for the stone masons and carpenters at work in the town. After that, this stable was built and Petrus was here and construction began on his home. He had a wooden barn built first and it was as large as the storehouse. But his home was built with stone and it took more time. Once his home was finished, he sent for his wife and children. Anyway, after the governor’s buildings were built, word got out and some merchants came to know there would be a permanent settlement here so some came to begin from the ground up.”
“The general layout of the town was set up with the shops set on the main road and the residences set in another part of town. The governor decided he wanted to set aside land for a park across from the mansion. The original merchant’s row was built with a bunch of wooden structures, but as things developed many of those were replaced with the buildings there today, built on stone foundations with a splash wall to protect them.”
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Alnifolia said a prayer softly in a language I did not understand. I presumed it to be a druidic psalm or prayer. Palustris served our plates and passed them up. Our cups were filled with the pure water and we happily ate after a stressful day in the dark basement. Alnifolia asked the others about their impressions of the cellars. They each recounted the same themes I shared with him. He asked Dravist his opinion of the setting as a cleric hoping he might have a bit of insight about the place. Dravist agreed with me about the books in the executive study being the key to the place. He also said the summoning chamber was very advanced and able to support some high-level rituals. He added that it was his interpretation from the artifacts found that they had one very senior cleric, a second senior cleric and four established clerics on staff, with accommodations for three other clerics, one of high station, as visitors. He commented that in the hierarchy the head man was a bishop, the second man was an arch deacon and the others were established priests, by way of comparison. As he made this analogy I considered it and nodded. I agreed it sounded like a good description based on my limited knowledge of such things. That would make this site the equivalent of a cathedral church, the center of religion for a capitol city.
Alnifolia asked Gillfort to take food to the prisoners and to bring up a bottle of wine when he returned. Gillfort stood and bowed saying, “Yes, master.” He grabbed his plate and took it to the kitchen and then was heard preparing two more plates. Alnifolia then asked Laevis to clear the table. He rose and began to do so. As the table was being cleared, he asked me to get my map out again. I pulled out my map and we spread it over the table. He hunched over to make a careful examination of it.
He pointed to one place and said, “Are you sure you measured these rooms off properly?” I replied, “They should be very well marked, and accurate. The whole building was built by accomplished stone masons. They laid it out as a great rectangle and placed rows of columns every thirty feet along these lines and every ten feet the other way. This was repeated on each floor so that the bottom floor was in the best arrangement to strengthen the floor above. Using the columns as a reference, I should have the rooms very well marked, especially on the bottom floor where the lines are not as regular.” Alnifolia nodded his head as if to indicate he agreed with my reasoning and then observed, “Then we have areas here, here, and here on the lowest floor that need to be investigated in addition to the two locked rooms you skipped.” Having expressed that thought, Vallen and Jackwon stood up to see where these places were that hadn’t been searched. Dravist already knew about the two locked rooms.
Alnifolia asked, “Let’s have another look at the parchment map.” I spread out the parchment, which was drawn to another scale and was incomplete. It showed only the third basement level, but the parts we did have agreed with my dimensions. They had other symbols on their drawing in the ritual summoning room. Again, Alnifolia asked Dravist what he thought these might be. Dravist said he did not know, and Alnifolia looked at him, stared at him, as if trying to see if he was getting the full answer or something was being withheld. He sat back as he heard Gillfort returning from the cellar. He asked him, “Is everything alright down there?” Gillfort said, “Our guests seem to be comfortable, yes.” And he brought the bottle of wine to Alnifolia. Alnifolia took it and poured just a bit into his cup and took a sip. He raised his cup in an approving gesture and said, “Go ahead and bring up a second bottle, please.” Gillfort bowed and turned to leave. Alnifolia poured my cup, and then motioned for the other cups to be passed up to him. Vallen, Dravist, Jackwon and Palustris all had their cups filled. I left mine on the table as did Vallen and Palustris. Jackwon and Dravist tasted theirs. They noticed we had not lifted our cups and set theirs back again. The second bottle arrived and Alnifolia poured a cup for himself, Gillfort and Laevis before setting the bottle down.
He raised his cup and we all raised ours in reply, and then everyone took a drink. Alnifolia asked, “Is there anything else from your exploration today?” I remembered the rubbings. I pulled them out and showed them to Alnifolia. He looked at them carefully and replied, these markings have no meaning to me. Then I pulled out the tokens I had brought back. I showed them to him. He picked up one and looked at it in the light and then rolled it over in his fingers. He said, “This is an alloy of copper. It is a much better, stronger metal. I should like to know, when you return, what the alloy is.”
We drank our wine and talked about this fellow, Dust Man, and the manner of construction the stone masons employed in building the basements. This reminded me of one other artifact, the site map. I produced the last two maps from our reconnaissance. I unfolded the site map and shared it with Alnifolia. We identified the buildings we already knew and he pointed out a few more they had found, but there were other buildings not yet found. He wondered if they had missed them or if they had been built before the owners deserted the place.
Then we looked at the large area map. I turned it the right way and showed him the major geographical features. The sword mountains and these woods were used to orient the map, and then I showed him the stream that runs from Pine Mill to Stonebridge to Grain Mill. And once we were oriented, we could consult the map for what lay beyond. I told Alnifolia I was going to make two copies of this map for myself and then turn it over to the Magistrate. On one copy I would add the current features, the roads and towns I knew about, to allow me to use it to convey information to others in these modern times. But I was going to leave one map alone except to make my mark and when I learn of it, a date when this map was likely produced. Alnifolia asked if I would be so kind as to make a copy for him before I departed and I simply replied asking for the time and supplies to make the copy.
At this, Jackwon said, “And how long will that take? I’d like this journey to be over so I might have my pay and move on.” I replied, “Jackwon, how much did you derive from your last adventure? The one that led you as far as Stonebridge?” He hesitated and replied, “We were paid 200 gold pieces to rid them of their kobolds and bugbear.” And I replied, “Each?” And he dipped his head and then looked back up with fire in his eyes and said, “No, we!” Vallen held up his hand to ask Jackwon to calm down. Then he said, “Jackwon, the sword I hope to keep from this adventure is worth more than 200 gold. Your axe, likewise, is worth more by itself. And I am sure Bene means to give us coin too. Now in addition to getting the 200 gold from our previous employer, we had expenses to get there and then on to Stonebridge. Bene is only asking a little patience in light of our success here. Is that not reasonable? You’re not feeling any hardship. You are getting hot meals, clean water, little labor. Is another day so much to ask?” Jackwon sat silently and Gillfort chimed in with, “Yes, well Bene said it was two days over here, two days to spend here and two days back. Tomorrow is the second day. Are we asking so much for Bene to live up to our agreement?” Vallen replied to this saying, “And what is your hurry? You wish to come right back here still. Is another day here now so uncomfortable compared to the pleasures you will have when you return? You are coming back here to work with the Druids. Will working here with your Druid friends be so much better when you answer to Alnifolia than answering to Bene? Bene has been very generous with all of us if you think back on how he was treated by us when we first met. And setting that aside, if you must, has he not been a friendly master on this trip? He has certainly taken more risk than he expected of any of us.” And with that remark he turned his head at Jackwon.
Alnifolia broke in saying, “I bet Bene gets a copy made quicker than you think. Now let’s clean up and get some rest. Palustris, see to the watch schedule. Bene, let’s see what I have in the office to help you get started. We have an interesting day ahead of us. Oh, Palustris, please have these discovered weapons brought to my study.” And with that, Alnifolia stood up and left the room for his study and I stood, nodded to everyone, and followed him. I could hear Jackwon burst out at Vallen about this as I walked away. Vallen replied, “And Bene’s rapiers were also claimed. So what’s your point?” And he replied, “You were just saying the weapons were worth …” And Vallen, uncharacteristically cut him off saying, “And if you might be more patient and hold your tongue, you would probably leave here with a new axe. Maybe we can persuade Bene to bring us another tomorrow.”
Arriving in Alnifolia’s study we sat down and got out our pipes again. We filled two cups with the fine tasting water and relaxed a moment. He said, “Jackwon is a piece of work. Now you know why I kept your two rapiers here.” I heard him say “your two rapiers” and felt better. I asked a tangential question. “What do you plan to do with the swords, axes and daggers then?” Alnifolia said, “I plan to keep theme here. I will ask Palustris to select a sword and an axe from the remaining stock down there and offer them to those two. Then we’ll see what happens.”
He went on, “I know I can trust you, Bene, to live up to your agreements. I can see we will enjoy the trust that comes with a strong friendship, and the friendship that is founded on strong trust. You will return soon with a good shipment of spices for us. You will leave here with payment for your services, enough to cover you and your escort, for we have learned the way is not so domesticated as we may desire. And, you will leave here with one of these rapiers. And on your next trip you will leave here with the other. We have no need for these so why shouldn’t you have them? Of course, we could be so crass as to sell them for their aesthetic value, but that would be a shame under the circumstances. We are not so poor of pocket to need them. And we are not so poor of spirit as to do that to you.”
“But, we will keep these also.” He indicated the other weapons. “And we will make a show of keeping them without letting on how good it might be for the pure of heart. Your friends have the same opportunity. If they return with spices for us, they will leave with their choice of these weapons. After one year, we may give them to whomever we please. We might still have them if they returned so late, and we might not. I ask that you keep this secret from everyone else. Let it be on their own merit that they receive these weapons. And it will prevent any covetous official in Stonebridge from claiming them by the power of the Magistrate. Envy, greed, covetousness, these are forces that bend the will of men to do those things they are ashamed to pronounce.” And he puffed on his pipe in silence.
He reached around and produced a large sheet of parchment, and the pens and inks needed to copy the map. He produced a small scrap of paper for himself. As I finished my pipe I knocked it out. Then I set it on the shelf and arranged things so that I might begin copying the map. I thought on his wisdom while I worked. He took a pen and made a few small scribbles on his scrap of paper. He showed them to me and said, “Use this symbol to indicate Stonebridge, this one for Pine Mill, this one for Wool Corner, this one for Grain Mill, this one for Smallarfolk. Use this symbol to indicate these ruins. Do not write any names on the map. I have this bottle of green ink. Use it for the wooded areas. Mark the oak forest with this line edge and stippling. Mark the pine forest with these. Here I have a bottle of blue ink. Trace the trail of the brook from Pine Mill through Grain Mill with the blue ink. Use this line style. This bottle of ink is a dark red. Show the sword mountains using this ink. Do not mark the roads or bridges on this map. I will copy them on there myself.” I was fascinated to learn he had tinted ink, and as I used it I found it was very high quality ink indeed.
He watched as I worked and occasionally remarked at the quality of my lines. He found them to be very even and the borders of the forests to be drawn in the line style so even that you could not decide if I started at this end or that. A less careful scribe becomes tired of tedious copying so that the end of a long pattern is more hastily drawn and a less experienced scribe begins with a less regular style and learns it as he goes. There is a pace and a practice for doing this work if you are willing to maintain good quality. I have always wanted my work to appear as mine without the need for a signature. These tinted inks just made it even more attractive. As it got a little later I said, “I think I should wrap it up for the night and get some sleep.” Alnifolia replied, “Yes, I think you’re right. No mind what I said about the secret. We’ll finish the map tomorrow.” And with that I handed over the pen and stood up. I went out and left him to clean the pen and put the things away.
Outside I found Vallen. I asked about the watch and he replied that Dravist is taking this watch, and Jackwon will take the next before turning in for the night. He said he had the last watch before we were to get up. I asked about Gillfort and he said, “Oh, they are taking the other three watches.” I replied, “So you consider Gillfort lost?” He responded, “Well, don’t you?” I said, “If we treat him like he belong to them, he will certainly. But if we want him to think it over before committing to it, we have to treat him like he is one of us. Do you see?” Vallen nodded his head and said, “Yes. Sorry.” I clapped him on the shoulder and said, “No bother.”
I told Vallen I was going to hit the blankets and he said, “That sounds like a good idea. Jackwon has made a warming fire for us. The men on watch have all been told to keep it going for us. There is an unseasonable chill in the air.” And I headed off to prepare for bed. Vallen went over and spoke quietly to Jackwon and then over to his gear where he removed his mail and prepared for bed himself. Jackwon threw a few more logs on the fire and it blazed up. Exhausted from some of the emotional challenges of leadership this day, I fell into a deep sleep.
53rd Planting, 221
In the morning, I woke early. I laid there deciding if I should try and drift back to sleep but I couldn’t suppress the urge to wake and take care of business. I stumbled off to the woods and had a look around. I found an armload of sticks and returned placing half of them on the fire. The fire blazed up nicely and I sat with my back to the fire listening to the woods. I heard Dravist stir. I probably woke him by throwing the sticks on the fire. I turned and looked his way. His eyes were open and I guessed he was thinking about the same things as I was a moment ago. He pulled back his blanket and stood up. As he walked away I clicked two sticks together and held them up as a way of asking him to bring an armload of wood when he came back. He nodded and continued to stumble on.
As Dravist returned, with an armload of wood, he sat down and added his wood to the fuel pile. Then it was Jackwon’s turn. He woke up and stumbled off. Since Vallen was on watch I spoke quietly to Dravist since now I wouldn’t wake anyone, Gillfort having taken up residence in the barracks building. I asked, “What will you do this morning while I head back into the basements with Alnifolia?” He replied, “I plan to find a good quarter staff among these trees and spend some time examining the temple some more.” I said, “Please check with the druids before you cut even one limb, OK?” Dravist thought a moment and replied, “OK. I understand.” I said, “I would like to pack up as much as we can today in hope that we get moving tomorrow morning. I am eager to make a report of my findings here to the Magistrate.” Dravist said, “I don’t think there will be any objections from Vallen or Jackwon over that.”
We had breakfast inside and then made ready for the day. Alnifolia was wearing heavy leather garments, as was Palustris. They were carrying small packs, a pouch and dagger on their belts and a quarterstaff in their hand. They also wore brown hoods that covered their shoulders. I was wearing my leather armor, leather pants, adventuring pack, two pouches and dagger on my belt, my rapier and my green hood. I also had a torch to help us get started. I left clear instructions that they should pack up what they could and keep an eye on the chest and our prisoners. With that, we headed to the ruined storehouse.
As we descended the first stairs, I remarked, “It appears the building you are staying in, Alnifolia, was strictly for men at arms and not for the priests of this order. The basements appear to built of higher quality materials and the furniture is better. You will see for yourself. Do you plan to build your own home out here, or do you wish to continue to use the barracks?” He replied, “Hearing what you have shared about the significance of this place, I have been thinking of having a druids longhouse made for our order rather than use these defiled buildings. I think there are some ugly magics involved here, and I wish to separate us from them. We’ll turn this little area over to the Magistrate as an archeological dig and help as guardians so the evil doesn’t return.”
We went through the first door and I walked slowly forward to light the first lantern we left in the corridor. We picked it up and stepped into the first room. It was as before, very large and very empty. Alnifolia looked around and walked the walls. Along the wall opposite the door he tapped and stepped forward and tapped again. He knew the question on my mind and said, “According to your drawing, there is a space behind this wall. There must be a door.” And with that, I began to touch the wall and feel for a crevice or a draft. Alnifolia got to the end of the wall and turned to inspect the stonework of the next wall. As I reached the junction of these two walls I felt something in the joint between two boards. The gap was just a bit wider than the others. I knelt down and saw the stone and the wood had a gap. I stood and looked up where the top of the door should be but there as nothing to see.
Palustris asked, “What have you found?” I said, “Here, feel this? The gap in the boards is almost a finger wide. Feel this, and this and this? All the others are not even wide enough to think that.” I pointed down with the torch in my arm, which put better light on the floor. “See the gap in the stone and wood. See how it is different from the wall over here? This is a door. But how does it open and is it trapped?” And with that remark, Palustris stepped a step away from the door. I turned and held out the torch. “Hold this for me, please.” And he took hold of the torch. I fumbled and found a splinter of wood. I lit the splinter in the torch, turned and blew it out.
As the smoke trailed away from the splinter, I very slowly traced it along the joints in the wood. I had to reach back and repeat the process twice. Alnifolia had completed his walk and had stepped over to join us. As he looked on he said, “You’re a bard, Bene?” And I smiled. “Yes. But I’ve learned a few other tricks along the way.” He said with a bit of laughter in his voice, “You’re the most roguish bard I’ve ever met.” I replied with a bit of mirth in my voice, “We Bard’s in the service do what we have to do. Not everyone wants to give us the information we seek. We sometimes have to find out for ourselves.” And I found the spot I thought might have a lock or device. There was a prominent knot in the wood. The board was finished just as smooth as any other, but the knot disturbed the smoke from my splinter. I said, “I would like a narrow rod. I believe this knot is a button that activates a lock or something. If it is trapped with a needle, I’d rather not get stuck by it.
Alnifolia placed the lantern he was carrying on the floor and handed me the rod he used to carry it. I placed the butt end of the rod on the knot and gave it a push. There was a satisfying click and the knot receded an inch. Nothing happened. I used the rod to press on the wall and the door swung away from me. An awful odor came from the room so that we all coughed and then some rats came scurrying out. I was startled and stepped back a few steps in a hurry. Palustris waved the torch at the rats and they darted away. Alnifolia, with the reflexes of a cat, smashed two of them with his quarterstaff, and they let out an awful wail and screech.
We heard something else in the blackness moving but we had no idea what it might be. I said, “Dust Man?” There was a moan of wind or something in reply. Alnifolia and Palustris turned their heads to me and I shook my head, “No.” I drew my rapier in my right hand and put the iron rod in my left. I hooked the lantern with the rod and moved it to the side where it would cast light into the dark chamber. There was a shadow that moved in the light. Alnifolia had placed his staff in his left hand in a guarding stance and was holding out his right hand with his fingers spread out. With his arm extended I could see he had a bracelet of holly wrapped around his wrist.
A flame shot forward from his hand extended a few feet and he walked into the room using the light. I lifted the lantern and Palustris brushed by me following Alnifolia. I came behind them and stood in the swing of the door. There were three shadows in the room which was about thirty feet wide and long enough to extend beyond our light. Alnifolia aggressively went forward at the figure on our left. It darted to the left and right trying to avoid the flame, which extended a full five feet forward from Alnifolia’s hand. I could see a few other figures in the faint light of his spell, Palustris’ torch and my own lantern. We had to push into the room to give ourselves room to fight but we also needed to maintain control of the door in case we needed to withdraw. I moved the lantern forward a little and set it down. Then I wrenched another torch from my pack and lit it by the flame of the lantern. I began to recite an epic poem of a fight to vanquish the undead to inspire my companions and to try and settle my nerves.
I moved forward a little staying close to the door. I waved my torch and this seemed to keep my foes at bay. I called out, “What are these things?” Alnifolia called back, “They move like shadows but they are something else. They can’t seem to attack us through the light. I’m not sure what they are.” I said, “Don’t get too far away. I’m trying to hold the door for our escape.” Palustris called out, “Yes, my master. I can’t cover the ground between us safely. You need to move back to the right so we don’t get separated. They’ll surround us if they can.” Alnifolia called back, “I understand. But we have to deal with these things sometime. Palustris, use your magical fire. Let’s knock one of these things out. I want to see how much it takes to kill one.”
Palustris threw his torch down and switched his staff into his off hand. Then he extended his own hand forward in the manner of Alnifolia and flames shot forward. He began to sweep the room in front of him. The ghost in front of Alnifolia retreated into the darkness and Alnifolia mover quickly to his right and caught another one facing off against Palustris. I focused on Alnifolia hoping to direct my inspiration to him to boost his damage. Suddenly there was a shriek and the ghost facing them withered toward the floor. Alnifolia made a pushing motion with his arm and the flame shot forward about sixty feet, as far as we could see, and then it burst into an expanding globe of fire. I believe there were seven more creatures caught in the light and the expanding flames.
As quickly as he did that, he had another flame ignited and was sweeping the room again. I heard another shriek but could not see the ghost. Then I realized one of them was sliding up on my right in the dimmest light at the ceiling. I quickly raised my torch in his direction and he froze and swirled about. I called out, “I’ve got one up here trying to get me.” I stepped back closer to the door. I said, “I think he was trying to get out the door.” I swiped the darkness with my rapier and there was no resistance. I couldn’t tell if I did anything at all. I held the torch up and it continued to swirl like black smoke, but it was guided by a will. It made a quick move again to the door and I lunged at it driving the point of my rapier into the wall where it stuck fast in the wood. It let out a shriek. I went after it with the torch while holding the handle of my sword. Again, there was a shriek. And then Palustris called out, “Bene, watch out.”
Another ghost like figure had worked its way between me and Palustris and was close on my left between us. I called out a scream, “Aaaahh! Ahh!” and swung my torch in my left hand wildly to keep it away from me. Paulstris called out, “Master, we must move right. Bene is in trouble.” And he quickly came to me and swung his quarter staff through the figure. He couldn’t use the fire because it would engulf me as well so he suddenly knelt down and launched his fire as Alnifolia did a moment ago. It flew through the room and burst into a ball of orange flame expanding into the creatures. Then with both hands he swung his quarter staff at the smoky figure violently delivering blows against nothing. I looked at the one I seemed to have pinned and took a stroke at it with my torch in my left hand and then swung it quickly back to my right.
We seemed to have this one caught between us, but with my rapier stuck in the wall I was hampered. I didn’t want to lose control of the one I had but I couldn’t fight the one on my left unless Palustris drove it toward me, something I wanted to avoid. I couldn’t tell if it was fight me or him so I couldn’t see if I had any opportunity to attack it. Meanwhile Alnifolia was trying to keep Palustris’ weak side from being attacked while he fought the ghost between the two of us.
I decided I had to commit to one or the other so I took my torch and drove it into the shadow pinned on the wall. I left the torch there and it shrieked. After a few seconds the swirling stopped and it melted away from my rapier and fell to the floor. I used all my strength and wrested my rapier free. Then I swung the torch around to my left and the other shadow shrieked. I surmised it had given its full attention to Palustris so my strike came as a complete surprise to it. It melted away. I called out, “Let’s get out of here!!” Alnifolia replied, “OK!” I stepped through the door into the other room. I threw my torch down and looked back inside to see how I might get the lantern out.
I called in saying, “I’m coming to get the lantern!” Palustris replied, “Fine. Quickly!” He was back up in his defensive stance with flames shooting from his hand. I found the iron rod I needed laying on the floor and sheathed my rapier. I picked up my torch and held it in my left hand so I could use my better hand to grab the iron rod and hook the lantern. I watched them and shot in when it appeared they were prepared to cover me. I grabbed the iron rod, hooked the lantern and stepped back into the supply room calling out, “I’m clear.” Alnifolia called back, “OK Palustris! Go!” Paulstris shot his flame forward and a big ball erupted to more screams. He came through the door. Alnifolia glanced over and back. He threw his flame at them and lunged to grab the torch still burning on the floor. With it in his hand he stepped over to the door. He tossed his staff through the door, reached out and grabbed the door to swing it closed behind him. He came through the door and there was a solid “bang” as it came to rest in the door jam. I was so drained I dropped to one knee holding the torch. Palustris stepped over and looked at the door to see if it latched closed.
Alnifolia was the first to speak. “Well, that was something.” Palustris turned to him and said, “How many Master?” Alnifolia said, “We seemed to incapacitate five of them, but I’m not sure they are finished. They seemed to hate the light more than fear the damage of our weapons or spells. Bene, how much damage did you do to the one you pinned against the wall?” I was still breathing heavily and suffering from the adrenalin. I just looked back at him while I sucked in air. Palustris produced his waterskin and gave me a drink. I thanked him. I began to catch my breath and said, “What in the planes of hell were those … things?”
Alnifolia said, “I believe those were something related to shadows. They are very dangerous.” I puffed a spurt of nothing and recovered and said, “You think?!!” Palustris said, “How many total, Master?” Alnifolia replied very matter of fact, “I thought there were nine or ten, but as we threw the fire into the middle of the room I couldn’t count the number. I think fifteen or sixteen. If we killed five, we could take them down in another two attempts. I’m just not sure we killed them.” “Another two attempts?”, I said. “Are you crazy?” Alnifolia smiled at me and said, “Buck up, my friend. You sure showed that one who was boss. Now, how much did you do against him? I could see you had him pinned with your rapier. I wonder how lucky a strike that was. They didn’t seem to have form so however you pinned him must have been a lucky strike.” “Lucky”, I said. “You call that lucky?” And he replied, “Well, yea, I do. Don’t worry. I won’t describe it that way to your friends.” I hung my head down and chuckled. How he described it to my friends was the last thing on my mind.
I thought about it and finally answered his question. “If it were a man, I struck it once by a thrust, pinning it to the wall. I slashed completely through it but that didn’t seem to have any effect. And I thrust at it four times, three after it was pinned, full on with this torch. That could be anything from four to six solid strikes. Without form I couldn’t tell if they were solid strikes or not. I sure believe the thrust was solid enough.” Alnifolia nodded his head. He looked about the empty room and asked Palustris, “Are you ready to proceed?” Paulstris replied, “Master?!” Alnifolia replied, “Yes. They don’t like the light. If we have problems, we only need to shine light on them and they will let us pass. Would you prefer that I bring down some of Bene’s friends to watch the corridor up here for us? Bene didn’t have any problems yesterday.” Palustris paused and then said, “Master, if you wish, of course. But yes, I would feel better if they were to help us watch this exit passage.” Alnifolia replied, “Very well. Let me do the talking.” He stepped to the corridor and we gathered ourselves and followed him.
In the corridor Alnifolia asked me to go up and bring Jackwon, Vallen and Dravist over here. I went up the stairs and walked across the courtyard and called for them. They were busy in the camp putting a few things away. I said, “We could use your help. Please?” And I waved my hand for them to come join me. I turned and walked slowly to the stairway and waited for them at the door. Jackwon was first and the other were near behind him. I ducked inside so I could avoid answering questions about the matter.
Alnifolia greeted them and said, “There is something inside a hidden room over behind that wall. It is some manner of undead spirit or something, we’re not sure. We found the hidden door and then we found the spirit. It doesn’t like light, but the room was too big and dark for us to back it into a corner and deal with it. Bene and Palustris would feel better if you would please witch this room and this corridor and keep the lanterns burning so there is plenty of light. Dravist, do you have any holy water or extra holy symbols with you?” Dravist was surprised to be singled out. He replied hesitantly, “Yes, I have several holy symbols of St. Thomas, the avenger. Could you bring me six? Five, if you keep one with you always?” He replied, “Sure.” And off he went. Alnifolia reached over and took the iron rod from my hand. He hooked the lantern and set it in the doorway facing the wall we just escaped. He then handed it to Vallen and said, “There are other lanterns in the mess room, right? Set one lantern in each doorway facing the opposite wall and light it, just in case. Then set three lanterns in this corridor and light them. I’m sure if you have plenty of light you’ll not have anything to worry about.” Vallen went off and Alnifolia asked Jackwon to help him.
They quickly set about with the lanterns. I was sure they didn’t believe they were getting the whole story. They finished up about the time Dravist returned. Alnifolia asked Dravist to give each of us a holy symbol. He told us, “Just keep it in your pocket, just in case. Dravist, if something happens we’re counting on you.” And then he turned to Palustris and said, “Let’s get moving.” They started down the hall and I turned and followed them. I was sure the three of them were shocked that Alnifolia left Dravist in charge, Dravist possibly being the most surprised.
We descended the stairs with me holding a lantern along with Palustris. I had positioned a torch at the top of my pack making it easier to withdraw if needed. We arrived at the door into the pool room and I lit a lantern we had left there the previous day. Alnifolia and Palustris gazed in for a look. I said, “Step back and listen.” I took a step inside counted to two and stepped back. They heard the sound of the rushing water and could see the water churning in each of the pools. I looked at them and said, “I believe they have summoned and trapped two water elementals, one in each pool, to serve as minion sentries guarding the third basement. Alnifolia, you have the pendent. If we walk across together, we should be OK. Then you come back for Palustris and bring him over. I didn’t try to bring two at once.” Alnifolia pulled the pendent from his belt pouch and hung it around his neck. Then he nodded and we walked together across the aisle to the other side. He ignored the sounds of the rushing water. He turned around and escorted Palustris while I lit a lantern on the opposite end of the room. I went down the stairs and lit the lantern at the foot of the stairs and waited. They came along shortly.
I said, “I found Dust Man in this first room yesterday. I would like to find him again so he won’t be frightened by your presence.” Alnifolia said, “Sure. May we wait in the first room. I’d like to take a moment and consult the map and see the weapons you staged in there yesterday.” I replied, “Sure, just let me see if he is in there again. He’s very hard to see. You can see his shadow better than you can see him, but that isn’t so easy either.” I turned and began walking slowly down the corridor with the lantern on the end of my rod. I called out softly, “Dust Man? Bene Timber has come back with other friends. Dust Man? I told you I was going to consult with wise men. Dust man? This is the wisest man near here. His name is Alnifolia.” And I heard movement in the Table room.
Arriving at the door I looked in and made out a shadow of Dust Man on the far wall. I smiled and said, “Dust Man. Are you alright?” Dust Man replied, “Alnifolia? Bene Timber? Fire? Water?” I stepped into the room and brushed off a chair and sat down. I set my lantern on the table. Dust Man said, “Bene? No fire.” I replied, “Dust Man, this is a lantern like yesterday. The fire stays in the lantern, remember? But my companions need the light.” He replied, “I remember. You remember? No fire.” I replied, “Yes, Dust Man. I remember. I will only use candles when I have to. You remember the candles and the lanterns, right?” Dust Man said, “I remember. You remember.”
I asked, “May I bring my companions here to meet you? They would like to meet you and talk to you.” Dust Man said, “No, no, not here. You move lantern. I go over there. Meet and talk over there.” It was hard for me to see but I think he was showing me he wouldn’t be boxed in so he wanted to step down the corridor and talk from out in the corridor. I replied, “OK, we will step into the corridor.” And I stood up and stepped into the corridor holding the lantern. I stepped down the corridor so that Dust Man came out into the corridor between us and he quickly walked over to stand next to me, at my side away from the lantern. I asked Alnifolia to step forward to the door.
I said, “Dust Man, this is Alnifloia. He is a druid Master. He is in charge of the trees I asked you about yesterday. Alnifolia, this is Dust Man.” Alnifolia raised his hand and smiled. Dust Man just looked on. I said, “Palustris, would you step up to the door?” He did and I introduced him to Dust Man. He likewise held up his hand while holding a second lantern in his off hand. I asked Dust Man, “They would like to visit the rooms again as I did yesterday. Where would you like to be while we visit the other rooms?” He looked up at me and said, “I show you.” He touched my hand gently urging me to follow him. I nodded to them and then followed Dust Man. He went down the corridor and turned right where the corridor split. We went into the gallery and he crossed straight to the other side. He tapped on the door of that cell and said, “I will wait here. They stay out. I close door.” Before he closed the door, I said, “Wait just a moment, Dust Man. Has anything happened since I left yesterday?” He replied, “Nothing happened. You made the water noise yesterday. You made the water noise today. I was scared. I don’t like the water noise. Nothing happened.” I said, “I’m sorry about the noise. It happens when I walk across the pool room. I don’t know how to stop it yet.” He nodded his head and had a sad look. He quietly and slowly closed the door.
I paused just a moment and then walked back to Alnifolia. It was a more fearsome experience crossing that distance in this penetrating darkness. I don’t think I had ever stayed in a place underground before and I wasn’t prepared for the depth of the darkness. Yesterday there were other lanterns around. Even though they were not shining on me or in my direction, it helped me to see them how they showed the depth and width of the rooms. It was very unnerving for me to be in such darkness and to know I was so far underground.
Alnifolia was seated at a table with Palustris when I came back. He indicated he wanted me to have a seat too. I brushed off a chair and had a seat placing my lantern on an adjacent table. Alnifolia had cleared one table of weapons and had the map on the table. He complimented me again on the apparent precision I had made the crude map. It appeared to him exactly as I described it with the columns on all the floors separated by thirty feet one way and ten feet the other way.
He pointed to the room where we were seated and said, “According to this map, there should be a room on the other side of that wall you haven’t yet visited. We looked at the wall and didn’t find a door of any kind. But you seem to have a talent for it. Would you have another … careful look?” I said, sure. And I fumbled for another splinter and picked it off the handle of the torch. I stood up and asked, “What do you think of these tables and chairs.” I leaned over and lit the splinter and Alnifolia replied, “They are very fine pieces indeed. Just as you said.” I blew out the splinter and moved to the back wall. The smoke gave no indication of a doorway. I said, “No luck. We’ll have to try somewhere else.” I sat back down with them.
They looked at a few of the weapons we left in the room the previous day. Next, we looked at the map again and I went through the rooms again with them. “The next room is full of books on shelves, so I call it the library. I figure they would come in here to sit and read the books. The room beyond that is the desk room. There are four desks for the four clerics that appear to be needed here in addition to the two senior clerics that ran the settlement. After that is the armory, but there isn’t much to see there anymore because it’s in here. The corridor branches off to the right but the following room is the executive study. At the end of the corridor is a private room for the head cleric.”
Alnifolia said, “Well, let’s go have a look.” And we stood and picked up our lanterns and headed down the corridor. I was in the lead with Alnifolia behind me and Palustris bringing up the rear. I opened the room to the library and stepped inside. I raised my lantern to have another better look at the books. They were obviously very impressed with the number of books and the quality of their preservation. We agreed this could be the most important element of my discovery. It would be some time before we knew what we may learn from the library. We stepped back out into the corridor to the study.
In the study I waited while they made their own examination of the desks. I remarked that I would like to have much of the writing supplies for my work if that was no great issue for them. They said they may take most of the writing supplies but they were sure they could spare some for me. With the library they expected to use the supplies to make many notes as they examined the books. I took them to the back wall and used my smoke trick to show them where the secret door was. Then I raised the door and showed them the dismal condition of the hidden corridor, and then I told them I found the chest at the end of the corridor to the left.
We left the hidden corridor and stepped back out into the main corridor and to the armory. They had a look around in the armory and I decided to have a better look at the army standards still in the rack on the wall. We stepped back into the hallway and I showed them the branching corridor before proceeding to the executive study. I said, “I think you will be impressed with the books in here.” And I opened the door and stepped in with them following. I indicated the desk in the back and said, “I believe that is the desk of the leader and this desk”, I indicated to the other desk a bit closer to the door, “was for his right-hand man.” The two of them did take careful notice of the books on display. Alnifolia stepped behind the “bishop’s desk” and found the ritual implements I noted. He made a point of showing them to Palustris and commented on their quality.
They counted the books and asked for a marking instrument. I could only give them my char stick. They pulled a piece of paper from the desk and sat down to make notes. Palustris made a diagram of the bookshelves and then notes on the number of volumes on each shelf and the colors of the coverings used to bind each book. Finally, they took one book down and transcribed as best they could the appearance of the page, recreating the style of the letters and all that. They wanted it to be sent off for examination to determine what language the books were written in, which would go a long way toward determining who made this place.
Alnifolia again referenced my map and said, “Is there another hidden corridor behind this wall?” I looked and said, “Maybe.” And I produced my smoky splinter and looked along the wall. Indeed, the smoke indicated there should be a door. We tapped here and there and found a door but we couldn’t find how to open it. We didn’t want to force it and damage anything on the other side so we decided to come back to it later. We left everything except for Palustris’ notes and went out to the corridor to visit the “bishop’s private quarters.”
I opened the door and stepped inside and shone the light from my lantern around. They followed and I found some candles to help provide more light to the room. After lighting the candles, I took a seat and let them poke around. They looked about and also noticed the books were more of a personal bent than professional. They agreed his wardrobe indicated he was not much of a traveler but rather an academic that preferred to stay here. What he was focusing on in his work was unclear to us. Was he just an administrator of the facility or was he working diligently on summoning water elementals or other beings, or was he up to something else entirely? We couldn’t read the language of the books so we were left to guess. That problem would be overcome when I got back to Stonebridge. One of the clerics should have a comprehend languages spell that would allow for the systematic study of these books.
I showed them the font or ritual bowl carved into the pedestal and the miniaturized ritual kit this fellow kept in his room. This was very concerning to Alnifolia. It was the strongest indication to him the man was not an administrator but rather that he was practicing the rituals with this kit to perfect his technique. Palustris was also concerned by one book with illustrations of a ritual being performed. They agreed this book and the ritual kit should be taken back to Stonebridge in the first load. Alnifolia said, “I’ll make sure it gets there.” As he looked at Palustris. I realized they were more concerned about this stuff than I realized.
They didn’t wish to disturb anything else so we were soon finished there and out in the corridor again. Now we were moving to the gallery and the dormitory. As we approached the gallery they could see how the space was opening ahead of them and they became nervous. We slowed our progress and they peered into the wide common area that contained the four stone statues. They shone their lanterns carefully about to verify they could find no demons waiting to ambush them. I thought how only an hour ago I followed Dust Man without much thought to the room across the gallery from where we were standing.
They stepped into the gallery and I indicated which rooms we found locked when we made our previous search. They visited each room again as I stood in the gallery as a look-out. They agreed the rooms were simple quarters for each of the clerics. We could see they were cleric’s room because of the robes in the wardrobes and a few books in the rooms. They were each provided paper and writing supplies. I thought they were copying some of the books but it was not easy to tell since I couldn’t understand the language. However, unlike magical writings, these did not appear to be books of incantations and rituals because they were copied in different handwriting. When copying spells, one tends to attempt to copy the manner the spells are written, even the style of the letters. These were not so precise. Therefore I presumed these copies by the clerics were of another nature.
We turned our attention to the statues in the gallery and I pointed out the fine workmanship of the sculptor. I couldn’t believe these were sculptures at all and feared they had petrified clerics for whatever reason. They didn’t appear to be exceedingly old so it appeared to me to be a punishment and not some strange idea of euthanasia. Alnifolia assured me there were sculptors capable of producing these works. Then we turned our attention to the ritual room.
We moved slowly to the ritual room in part because it was a great expanse of room beyond either my dark vision or the light of our torches and lanterns. Alnifolia found this to be disconcerting when he couldn’t see the four walls of a room and all the doorways. He cast a spell that produced a light and pushed the light away from himself to illuminate more of the room. He directed the light this way and that until he was satisfied my map had described the room enough to believe he understood its dimensions. Then he calmly walked to the center of the room.
Alnifolia waved his hand at Palustris who then walked around lighting the torches in the room. There were sixteen torches and they blazed with a dim yellow light and let off a black thin smoke. As an outdoorsman I began to feel uneasy seeing the smoke gathering on the ceiling. I had a deep concern I would be suffocated. But with the torches lit it became easier to look around and understand the room.
The center of the room was dominated by a bright yellow mosaic of the sun. The four directions around the sun were large triangular patches of red, white, blue and brown / grey mix mosaic patterns that immediately gave the impression of the four elements. In the corners of the room other elemental forces were suggested in the artwork including one corner distinctly showing lightning, another dedicated to the moon and one dedicated to plant life. The fourth corner could have been many things but I guessed it was dedicated to magic as an elemental force.
There were water trays attached to the columns that I didn’t understand; glass bowls supported by copper rings that had tarnished to a beautiful green color. The rest of the floor tile of the mosaic appeared to be a vast swirling maelstrom making up the space between the images. The floor was very highly polished and it seemed it went to a depression in the middle of the room, with the sun image forming a mound in the middle of the room. It was clearly designed to be made in this manner but there was nothing coherent about the images beyond the presence of the elements and the sun and moon. It seemed a blend of alchemy, sorcery and worship.
I became increasingly uneasy and asked, “If you’ve seen enough I’d be happy to lead you back to the surface, now.” Alnifolia replied with an edge of mirth in his tone, “You’ve been down here already my elven friend. Must we leave so soon?” I replied, “Yes, I believe we should. Remember the creatures we already faced and we know not what magic forces are at work down here. You can see my map is accurate enough.” And he said, “So it is. But what about that room back there?” And Alnifolia pointed to the last secret room we believed was left to be explored. And I replied, “Some other time perhaps? With more lanterns and less of this smoke?” Alnifolia waved his hand at Palustris who began extinguishing the torches with some effort.
When Palustris was finished I waited for them to come toward the exit, but they did not. Alnifolia walked to the back corner of the ritual room where he hoped to find the door he was seeking and Palustris went with him. They had one torch and one lantern and I stood near the entrance to the ritual room with my lantern. I had to step inside further to keep them inside my visual range. At the wall Palustris tried my burning splinter trick, looking for a door. He came up empty. Alnifolia asked if I would give it a try and reluctantly, I stepped over to help.
I repeated the smoky splinter trick and did not find any ready indication of a door. I wanted to turn and leave for my feelings of anxiety were becoming worse by the minute. Alnifolia placed his hand on the wall and slid his fingers gently over the woodwork. He paused here and there but stepped back and resigned himself to the idea it was going to take a more professional approach. He agreed to leave and I almost ran to the gallery. Once through the gallery I pointed to the beginning of the corridor that lead back out. I asked them to wait at the table room and I would speak to Dust Man before I caught up with them. They nodded and walked away down the corridor. I stepped over and said goodbye to Dust Man and said I wouldn’t be back for some time. I told him only Alnifolia had the keys to come down so he should not be visited by anyone else. I also reaffirmed my promise to find wise men that could get him home. And with that I went to join Alnifolia and Palustris.
At the table room we had a number of weapons and a few new artifacts to bring up. They agreed to bring up another mundane axe and sword for Vallen and Jackwon as a temporary reward for their efforts. We didn’t wish to bring any more weapons or any of the tabards and banners that were still in the armory. We brought back the ritual kit and three books from the bishop’s collection and one book from the other senior administrator’s collection as an example of the transcription process underway when this stopped being a place in use.
We crossed the pool room and went up to collect our guard and left the basements again locked up tight. Topside we went to discuss our find and observations while lunch was being prepared. I sat in Alnifolia’s office with Palustris and we discussed our survey. Alnifolia asked that I resume working on a copy of the maps while we talked. He set me up at the desk in the back of the room so they could set things on the table for examination in the light. Palustris was engrossed in the ritual kit while Alnifolia was engrossed in the books. I asked Alnifolia about the trip back, mentioning his remark about making the trip with me.
Alnifolia replied, “Yes, we shall begin tomorrow morning. We shall all go except for Laevis. He will remain here just to keep an eye on things. We will take everything with us except for the valuable weapons, although I will permit each of you to have one of the jeweled daggers. We will take Marogred and Gough and turn them over to the authorities. And that is where our problem lies. If we take Marogred, anyone in Stonebridge involved with him will learn that part of their plan was sunk. If I show up in Stonebridge questions will be raised about why. If valuable daggers are noticed among your party rumors and stories will spread. All of these things are a problem. But I see we need to work with the empires resources to get to the bottom of this.”
I responded, “I have another way that will at least buy us much time. Could you agree to meet with these officials on the road between Stonebridge and Pines Mill? There we could keep the secret of your involvement and Marogred’s failure for quite some time. The news would probably leak out sometime later after a careless remark by someone, but the great majority of our secret will not become public for a long time and nothing will leak out for many days, I hope.” Alnifolia replied, “That sounds like a good idea, but how will we arrange a meeting with the top officials but attract as little notice as possible?” I answered him saying, “I will use Gough as an excuse to have a military detachment come this way and meet us well outside town. They will need to execute him or have him taken far away in secret just to keep him from spreading the news of what is happening here. He doesn’t know it all, but he knows too much.”
We agreed to pursue this plan and I began to think how I might get the details right. I thought as I worked on my copy. I decided to make up a story that I would need help in rounding up Gough after an escape attempt. I thought we could meet in a place about where we ate lunch that first day after leaving the road to Pines Mill. We could make a camp there for my party with the supplies we had already and the military expedition could bring enough for them as well. I wanted to be prepared to spend a few days together away from any of the towns and far enough from the roads that we shouldn’t be noticed. After this I wanted to establish a supply line for the druids that could also serve as a method of sending experts to their site to help in the study of the ruins. As long as the Magistrate agreed I was sure we could make this work and conceal the facts from the spies that might be in Stonebridge.
After lunch I reviewed my plan with Alnifolia and Palustris and they agreed it was worth a try. I had my party load everything up and Alnifolia and Palustris prepared for a journey of a few days. I spent the remaining time copying documents for Alnifolia as we agreed. We shared the extra weapons with Vallen and Jackwon and we also received an ornate dagger for each one of us. We kept these wrapped in cloth in our packs with an agreement we could not bring them out until we left the province of Stonebridge. Jackwon was particularly outspoken about not receiving at least one of the special axes, but seeing I didn’t receive a rapier and Vallen didn’t receive a longsword, and Dravist and Gillfort were going to receive nothing apart from their daggers and some jewels, he recognized there was little chance of having this decision reversed. I suspected Vallen knew how this would play out to his benefit but he didn’t say anything to Jackwon in front of the others. I knew I would get both rapiers if I only made two trips back to the site with a cart full of spices and tools they could use.
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So early the next morning we bid goodbye to Laevis and began our trip back to town. I left one more jar of honey behind so that we had only a partial jar and our rations for the journey. We tied the hands of Marogred and Gough and then had them tied to the back of the cart so they had to walk the distance. I figured this would help them be plenty tired when we got where we were going. We broke through the forest by about midday and stopped for a short break. We sat down and enjoyed a trail meal and got moving again. Again I rode my horse and looked ahead to find the path home.
We made it to the small lake where we stopped a few days earlier. This was the site I wished to use for our meeting with the militia. We made camp and used the extra tarps to make a shelter for Alnifolia and Palustris, with a separate shelter for Gough and Marogred. I was very concerned about them because, Gough especially, they would know they were now possibly enjoying their last hours of their lives. We set the watch and turned in for the night.
55th Planting, 221
The night passed uneventfully thanks to the diligence of our watch and I loaded up my horse and bid my own farewell to the group expecting to return the next day with a military escort. Alnifolia was in charge and Vallen was in charge of our party members. I climbed up on my horse and rode away knowing they had plenty of supplies.
I arrived at Stonebridge shortly before lunch and dismounted my horse and walked him in to town and to the stable. Next I visited the sergeant of the guard and was pleasantly surprised it was Sergeant Stuart on duty once again. He rose as I entered his office and greeted me. I told him I needed to get some help tracking down a deserter I had found on my recent expedition. I then told him I wanted to speak to Lord Martinex about the matter since it was a serious affair to deal with a deserter. He said he would be happy to assist but organizing a detail for this sort of work would require the authorization of an officer. I agreed but asked if he could see to the provisions needed for such an expedition. He said he would discuss it with the quartermaster to help speed things along. I thanked him and took my leave to see the officials in the mansion.
Outside I crossed the way and asked if I might find Thomas Quintus in the temple. He was located and I asked if he would join me in a discussion with the Magistrate, which he readily agreed. On the way to the Mansion he asked about my journey and I said I found some things and didn’t find some things and I might need his help in sorting out the whole matter. He asked about my saddle bags saying they looked rather heavy and were they really necessary for a meeting with the Magistrate. I said something to diminish the importance I placed on them, but I believe Thomas Quintus realized in my answer they were very important indeed.
Inside the mansion I was able to use Thomas Quintus as a shield to proceed directly to an audience with the Magistrate rather than check in with Cottern. We found the Magistrate in the smaller dining area where he ate informal meals with family or advisors. Lord Ballinor was eating with Sir Martinex and brightened up when he saw Thomas Quintus come in. Thomas Quintus said, “Well look what I found.” And Sir Martinex said, “Well, Bene. We were wondering how you were getting along. How are you? Find anything?” Thomas Quintus reached and pulled a chair up for me and then himself and sat down. The Magistrate, still chewing a mouthful motioned with a hand for me to sit down, and Sir Martinex motioned for a servant to bring food and plates.
I sat down and smiled, nodded to the Magistrate and to Sir Martinex, and then began my report. “I have learned more than I bargained for, your lordships. I have learned about the sign but I am afraid I can’t speak of everything I found right here, right now.” And with that, the Magistrate swallowed and said, “Why of course you can.” And I replied, “My lord, I have things to report of great concern and I beg your indulgence to have a private audience, with your lordships of course”, and I nodded to Lord Martinex and Quintus, “before you determine the worth of it.” Lord Martinex stabbed another mouthful and said, “Very well. Have something to eat and we’ll hear all about it.” And so we ate and they spoke of mundane day-to-day stuff of the town.
When we were done the Magistrate said, “Thomas, take him up to my study. We’ll be along in a moment.” Thomas Quintus and I went down a corridor to the back stairway and then up to the Magistrate’s study, where the guard on duty let us in. Thomas asked, “What did you find then, Bene?” I replied, softly, “I found a temple dedicated to water elementals that is the symbol from the pendent. The symbol is prominently displayed on the north wall of the temple. But the symbol itself represents a well and an amphitheater and that appears to be the true center of their worship practice. We found the druids of the deep wood have occupied the ruins of this old cult and they were sitting on a treasure and didn’t know it. Unfortunately for my companions the bulk of the treasure is the numerous books, ledgers, tomes and manuals they have stored in the basement of an old warehouse. I believe the study of these books is possibly the most important service the Magistrate could undertake in support of the Emperor.” Thomas Quintus replied, “Really? How many books? What sorts of books?” And just then the door opened and the Magistrate, Sir Martinex and Andante all entered the study. I turned and bowed to the Magistrate and he strode over to his desk and sat.
He looked up and asked, “Bene, pray tell us what needs you have of secrecy in the mansion?” I began from the most important point. “My lords, we found the druids in the deep wood have occupied a ruined outpost of cult worshipers that followed water elemental magic. The druids were unaware of the nature of the site only recognizing it was some outpost for a defeated and dispersed cult of a long ago age. But with some luck and some help we managed to gain entrance to the basements of the ruined storehouse and found a treasure of books that must be studied quickly and then carefully to determine the identity of the powers that made it a stronghold in the first place. The appearance of the pendants indicates the masters of the cult are attempting to rebuild their power again.” Lord Ballinor replied, “Well, we’ll just have an expedition go and bring back these books and begin our study of them. It doesn’t seem so very difficult an issue to me.” I replied, “Pardon, my lord, but it is complicated because of intruders tied up in the story. First, I will ask your indulgence to accept that this must be kept secret from anyone we can’t trust completely, and this includes members of the community here in Stonebridge. On the way to the druid encampment we crossed paths with a fellow that says his name is Gough. We believe he was a member of the third bears, a military unit, and he is now a deserter. I anticipate you have the information necessary to determine the truth of that once you see him. We had to bring him with us in captivity because his disposition indicated we couldn’t trust him not to attack us in our sleep. Because he was with us, he knows many details of our journey and our findings; more than we can trust to become known in the town here.”
“We then met the druids and among them was an imposter named Marogred. Marogred is a Dwarven Thief that is working with Finlock and some prominent fellow, Petrus, here in Stonebridge. Marogred is in league with these two fellows and knows something of the history of the cult that managed the outpost. He had a pendant and a key we needed to gain entry to the basements where the treasure was stored. We can’t let him come to town and have his companions alerted to the fact that we have gained knowledge of the ruins. Therefore, we have established a camp not one day away from here to hold the two of them so your lordships can determine how best to proceed.”
“I was just telling Lord Quintus that the greatest value in the treasure is the volumes of books stored away. There are hundreds of books there. I believe a great number of them are histories of the cult and the areas they occupy or occupied. Another significant portion of the collection is a set of rituals and religious proverbs they were studying. There were also several ledgers and log books that might describe the logistical details of their operation. Another curiosity is the summoning chamber they built in the basement. That chamber, the temple and the well and amphitheater are all sources of power for the cult and must not be allowed to be reinvigorated.”
“I must also report there were a number of monetary treasures and a few good weapons that we found among the things stored away in the basement. I realize your lordship will want a full accounting of these things as well. We found a chest with a few pouches and boxes of gem stones. There were a few pieces of jewelry in the chest as well as forged arrowheads and I believe a box of poisons in wax sealed vials. There were two sets of ritual devices; cups, pattens and bowls, and ritual knives, that are worth some money as well, but I believe are worth more for their intelligence value in studying the cult. I am carrying one of the ornamental daggers”, and I unfastened and placed the ornate dagger on the Magistrate’s desk, “from the collection, but most of the weapons were mundane, my lord.”
“Also, among the mundane things there were a number of fine pieces of furniture, some good clothes and robes, six beautiful desks and a number of chairs and book cases. In the small armory there were a number of military standards that deserve a look too. We did not find any armor or any weapons of interest to the druids, but I have established a bond with their leader, Alnifolia, a powerful druid master, that he would watch over these treasures while we organize a study team if I would but bring him some spices and basic foodstuffs from time to time.”
“I urge your lordships to come and see what we have hidden away at this campsite, and talk with our two prisoners and Alnifolia, who has joined us on this important journey, and then follow-up with a plan to complete a study of the site. The site is too dangerous for us to do anything else. For example, the clerics that led this cult were able to summon two water elemental guardians that are bound to guard the basement of the temple from intruders. The guardians are still able to perform their duties so it appears they remain bound by the summoning magics still after a few hundred years, possibly. I fear this sort of power can not be ignored when it was so nearly grasped by men of means and power here in Stonebridge. I would not be surprised if the return of Marogred would have started a series of events that could have wrested control of the province from the Empire.” At this remark the Magistrate became quite agitated and said abruptly, “Enough!”
There was a silence and then he said, “Sir Martinex, gather a detachment of sixteen soldiers so we may go hunt down this deserter. We will leave in the morning. I will be joining you. Thomas, I will leave the administration of the town to you while I am away. Do not let Finlock or Petrus leave while I am gone either. Make up any excuse you must. I will have need of a cleric in this expedition. Who do you recommend?” Thomas Quintus replied quickly, “Ovadiah, my lord, of course.” The Magistrate replied, “Very well. See to the arrangements please, Sir Martinex.”
I interjected, “My lords, I have a few items in these saddlebags I would like to show you in private. Is this the proper time?” The magistrate said, “Well, yes, let’s have a look.” I pulled the saddlebags from over my shoulder and opened one side. I placed the book on the table and opened it. I began, “My lords, see how well this book was made? See the lettering? The style of the letters appears crude but not draconic, so I believe it was produced many years in the past; over a century I believe. However, the paper is not as old. I believe the paper is twenty to fifty years old. It is difficult to tell in the conditions where I found it where the paper was being well preserved.” I turned a few pages as I went on. “You can see the writing is neat and even, page after page, but you can also see there are no illustrations, diagrams or maps of any kind. This book was a book of theory or a history of some sort, but one where the audience was expected to know the places already if there are no maps.”
I lifted the dagger. “This dagger is a piece of artwork, not meant for use as a weapon”, and I exposed the blade from the scabbard slowly, “but clearly capable of such use when you inspect the blade and the edge. The other weapons we found were made for combat. The decorated ones were likewise made to be used if necessary.” I replaced the dagger in its scabbard and wrapped it in a piece of cloth and returned it to my saddlebag. “I believe it is necessary not to allow any of the things I found there to be seen in Stonebridge. I do not know what items might indicate to the spies that we have successfully located the Water Elemental Cult’s treasure.” I likewise replaced the book.
I opened my map case and produced one of the maps. This was the local map of the ruins. I pointed to the features as I spoke about each of them. “Here is the direction we approached the outpost as we broke the cover of the trees. The area is generally a peaceful meadow in the thick of the wood. We approached the amphitheater and descended this side on a gentle grade. That brought us to this building, a barracks of militia headquarters made of yellow stone. It was still standing but in need of attention. From there it is a straight line to the well at the center of the compound. I thought the well was a tiny stage but it is a well that produces the purest water I have ever tasted. It appears this was the primary focus of their rituals and not the temple or summoning chamber underground. This well is the meaning of the pendant symbol.”
“Due north of the well lies the temple. There is one great doorway that is aligned with the well. The pendant symbol lies on the north wall. Inside there is an ante room, a wall with one doorway, and the main chamber. The main chamber is decorated with low relief carvings in the white stonework. The ceiling is very high and the northern most quarter of the room is an elevated area for the presiding clergy to lead the rituals. I believe they use the temple on rainy days and they probably celebrate particular special rituals inside when it rains. On the back wall there are odd tablets, one for each of the four elements. The whole of it smells of a heavy mildew odor probably because they have not been there to maintain it and keep it clean. Although some sunlight can get inside, the chambers are lit by torch sconces.”
“Between the temple and the barracks lies the foundation of an old warehouse or supply building. Nothing higher than a stone remains above ground level, but the floor is still intact, and in relatively good condition. We had to dig around to find a stairway leading to basements beneath the ground floor. And what we discovered in these basements indicates this was possibly the most important building at the site, but the cult leaders wanted to keep this a secret. The first basement level is an army barracks in itself. For this reason, we began to believe the barracks building was intended only for administration and officers. The second basement level is devoted to two water elementals that prevent anyone to bearing the pendant from crossing and getting to the lowest level. The bottom level, three stories underground, was the home of the clerics that ran the outpost. There are quarters down there for six clerics and two visitors. There are offices for six clerics. The armory and main library are down there along with the enormous ritual room; a ritual summoning room we believe.”
I indicated other building outlines on the map. “We didn’t stay to confirm if these other building existed or were planned at the time this map was drawn. The courtyard was finished in large smooth stones aligned on an east-west axis and there was an obelisk standing here with markings for a sundial.” I put this map away and produced the region map. I spread it out on the table and paused for each of them to recognize it.
I placed my finger on the map where Stonebridge lay and said, “Here is Stonebridge. The road to Pines Mill follows this creek up to about here. The same creek continues on to Grain Mill and beyond. The road to Wool Corner runs from here to Stonebridge and down to Smallarfolk, which is about here. The Outpost is located here, very near the center of the Deep Wood. We traveled up the road to Pines Mill and branched off about here. We proceeded up this way and camped at the edge of the wood the first night. Half a day following we were at the Outpost. Our party retraced this route and they are camped here. I left early this morning and arrived in town just before lunch.”
“I don’t know what your maps of the region beyond your four villages shows, but I thought this map could be very helpful in expanding your cartography. I know there are orcs operating in this area. I can see this range here is the Sword Mountains. There are stands of trees and waterways on this map that are beyond my knowledge. The two lakes you have made, here at Stonebridge and down in Grain Mill were not created when this map was made, nor any of your settlements. And I have learned from Andante that there is probably other information shown on this map that I haven’t found yet. I plan to copy all these maps and leave one with your Lordship and send a second back to the capitol.”
“I believe we need to make sure these two criminals never see a settlement again so they won’t spread the stories of what I have seen. I believe we can trust my adventuring companions, but a reward would help cement their loyalties. The druids are likewise not going to betray us because their entire mission rests on being left alone to complete their work. If we wished to cement their loyalty it would only take a supply wagon every two weeks, maybe less. They would also appreciate a few additional druids to help in their task. If the Empire were to find three or four and help them as far as the outpost, I’m sure their leader Alnifolia would be a source of unending help with an expedition sent to complete a study.”
“But the real problem I see is keeping an expedition quiet and supplied while the study is going on and the participants quiet when it is concluded. I believe there are bards employed by the Empire for these tasks, but this will take a great deal of support, and Stonebridge will be called upon to manage the support. In the short term, we should visit the campsite I mentioned. The druids could return free of any unwelcome travelers or guests. Soon after a military expedition could travel to Wool Corner, as they do often enough; however, this expedition would then circle around and connect with the druids from this direction. They could provide security to help prevent wanderers from accidentally stumbling into the ruins. A small group, for that is likely all we could manage initially, of experts could begin the study of the storehouse basements. Later a more established support and study program could be built.”
“There is so much information to discuss. I hope I have remembered the most important parts, my lords.” And with that I bowed and waited. Andante slapped me on the back. He said, “If you weren’t working for me, the Magistrate would put you in charge of the whole project, I bet. My lordship, Bene has a solid plan and has figured out most of the real thorny issues. How do we get this done and how do we keep this quiet? How do we supply such a mission and who do we put in charge? But first things first. We need to make a show of leaving to deal with a deserter and we need to figure out what to do with this fellow, uh, Marogred?” And I nodded.
Sir Martinex added, “We need to get out there quickly but tomorrow morning is best so we don’t appear anxious beyond expectations. The Governor and I would not run out of town just to lead a search for a single deserter. We must wait for the morn. Even so, we would send a lieutenant and eight men for such a task normally. But I think we can sell the idea the governor and I will make the journey just on the basis of making an overdue tour of the province to check on the well-being of the citizens and the land. The supply and the secrecy that comes next is the delicate part. We’ll discuss it more over the next few days.”
The magistrate added, “Andante, do you think you should come along on this trip or take immediate steps to speed word of it to the Emperor?” Andante bowed and replied, “I believe another day for me to gather better information about the matter will be best.” The magistrate said, “Very well. You are staying in the mansion anyway, but we don’t want things to be any more unusual, so I will need to ask you, Bene, to stick to your routine and stay in the Green Hawk this evening. Andante, make plenty of time to talk with Bene, but make sure you are discrete about this matter. You’ll have to spend some time over at the Inn as well.” And Andante bowed saying, “It will be my pleasure, my lord.” And with that, he touched my on the arm and indicated with a nod of his head we should leave them to discuss this. I gathered up my map and put everything away.
Outside in the hallway he said to me, “Head over and make your arrangements for tonight. I’ll be over in a minute.” I replied to him, “I would like to hear how my new armor is coming along, and I would like to restock my supplies of spices for traveling since I have a great deal of travelling ahead of me. Can you tell me about the fellow named Petrus?” Andante replied, “Ah, yes, you haven’t met him yet. He is the richest merchant in the province. He is the horse trader here in Stonebridge. He also owns the cart and wagon maker’s shop and the tack and harness shop. He also has quite an interest in the leather goods and livestock trades. But he does not bother in politics everyone says. He will attend dinner at the Governor’s mansion when he is bidden but prefers to run his own network involving the commerce captains of the province and his contacts elsewhere. I was going to have to tell you about him later but now later is today. Go see about your business and I will come talk to you this evening at the Hawk.” We shook hands and I departed to see Tony.
Outside on the porch of the mansion I looked about and didn’t see anything unusual about the activity in the street. I was happy my effort to keep things quiet appeared to be working well enough. I strode over to the Hawk greeting everyone cheerfully as I would on any other day. I arrived at the Hawk, removed my hat and opened the door. My eyes adjusted to the light and my nose to the smell. The inn still smelled of a recently cooked dinner, wood smoke and ale. Being out in the wilderness had cleared my head of all these thoughts.
Tony heard the door and stepped out from behind a door. He saw me, smiled and called out, “Bene! Good to see you. Are you going to be back for a few days again?” I smiled and said, “I’m fine, Tony, thanks for asking.” And Tony smiled back and nodded his head. He said, “Good, good. Should I have your things brought up and have your bed made? You would probably like to wash off the dust and rest, yes?” I replied, “Yes, I am staying tonight. I would like to play at the hearth and I would like to wash off the dust, but I don’t have time for a rest. I want to check on my clothes I bought from Isabell and pick up some spices. I’ve run through mine and I need to take another trip. Would you please have my trunk brought up and my bed made. I will go up and wash myself off and then I must do a little shopping.” And with that I was already about to ascend the stairs. Tony called behind me, “Of course, of course. It will be up in a moment.”
At the top of the stairs I looked carefully at the hallway and then walked quietly to my room. Just to make sure, I knocked softly on the door before placing my key in the lock. There was a satisfying “click” and then I pushed the door open. The room was as I left it. I stepped inside and placed my saddle bags on the chair. I poured water from the pitcher into the bowl and then pulled a cloth from a saddle bag. I washed off my skin using the cloth and put my shirt back on. I had no other clothes to change into so I had to put the old shirt back on.
I stepped out into the hallway and listened while I was buttoning my shirt. I couldn’t hear anything unusual so I finished dressing and pulled the saddle bags back over my shoulder. I couldn’t let them out of my sight unless they were under guard. I realized I would need to get some help from Andante or a member of the guard. I backed out of the room and locked the door and turned to walk down. Half way down the stairs I met Tony. “Tony”, I asked, “we have the only two keys for that room, right?” Tony said, “Oh, sure Bene.” I reached out and put my hand on his forearm, “Tony, this is very important. Just two keys? Not your wife, not your daughter? Nobody?” Tony looked at my hand and then up into my eyes with a look of concern on his face. He said, “No Bene. Just your key and mine. Andante used the room before, but now they keep him in the mansion when he comes. You have Andante’s old key to Andante’s old room.” I removed my hand and let out a breath of air. I said, “Sorry. Good.” I thought quickly of something to say that he would easily believe. “With all the money I have made here, I’m getting worried. I haven’t been anywhere to deposit the money and I’ve never carried so much on me before. Now please don’t say anything to anybody about it.” The look of worry washed off his face and his smile returned, “Sure thing, Bene. No problem.”
Out in the town I headed over to see George, the Armor Smith. I was wearing my ornate leather armor with the red colored pauldrons but without the faulds and I had my saddlebags draped over my right shoulder. My excursion into the basements made me think I may just have to have a helmet made for these adventures. I knocked and entered his shop and he was busy fussing with something that had several parts. He appeared to be struggling with getting the parts lined up so he could punch a hole through them all. He looked up at the sound of the door and recognized me, or his armor, and called out, “Well, how have you been?” I replied, “I’m doing OK, but as much as I like this armor, I was hoping you would have good news to share about the other set; the studded leather armor.” He replied, “Just a moment. I’ve almost got this.” And he pinched it down with one hand and raised some sort of mallet and gave it a sudden strike <thwamp> and then let it go. He fished about and found a wooden peg and pushed it through the several layers and left it sitting on the table.
He waved the back of his hand at me saying, “Why don’t you take that off so we can see how this other set fits. Remember when you came in, I said you would need to come by to have it fitted.” I replied, “Yes, I do remember something that sounded like that. But I was called away for a few days. We’ll just have to make do with the time we have.” He raised his eyebrows as he lifted up the new cuirass and said, “And I’ve heard something that sounded like that before too. Do you need some help with that?”
I was fussing with the buckle under my arm and he came over and unfastened it and it slid off. He held the new armor up high and I slipped my arm, neck and other arm through the opening at the base while he slipped it down to my waist. He said, “Now how does it feel?” I said, “It feels very stiff.” And George replied, “Well of course. It hasn’t been broken in yet. You’ll have to wear it for days before it starts to lay naturally on your chest and shoulders. Every piece of armor knows who its owner is. Do you feel any pressure points where the studs are set to reinforce the plates?” I moved my arms a bit to make the armor slip against my torso and I probably looked like a broken windmill. I replied, “There is a spot here”, and I pointed to a spot an inch below my pectoral muscle and each side, “and here”, when I pointed to the same spot on my back just below the bone, “that I can feel some pressure from the way the armor lays.”
He stepped back and looked at me. Then he extended his arm and rested his finger on the armor and said, “Right here?” And I replied, “Yes”, and pulled away quickly, “right there.” He brought his hand to his chin and looked. He held up his arm and urged me to turn around so he could look at the back. He rubbed his hand on the armor in the back and said, “Is it here also?” I replied, “Just a bit closer to my backbone. Yea, right there.” He put his hand to his chin again. “How’s the rest? Any problems anywhere else?” I replied, “No, I think it fits very well. It just has those hard points against my ribs.” He replied, “OK, can you slip it off?” It wasn’t really a question.
I pulled it off and he picked it up and looked inside and felt inside for the spots I mentioned. He found what he was looking for and said, “Well that’s pretty good. There are twenty-six studs and you only felt four that bothered you. That shouldn’t take to terribly long to fix.” Then he held it up for me to see the front and asked, “What do you think about the look of it?” I replied, “Well, it looks very straight. Uh, ordinary, or utilitarian.” He took on a disappointed look in his face and replied, “Well I’m not one of those elven smiths that lives three hundred years and has time to make it all fancy. I’ve got other customers, and …” I interrupted him and said, “I don’t think anyone wears studded armor to get noticed. Don’t mind that. I want to know it works and will fit well enough that I will still be able to move about”, and I held up my hand as if I were fencing. He just shook his head.
Then he said, “Well let me fiddle with it a bit and you come back tomorrow.” I replied, “I do not expect to be in town tomorrow but I will be back in another day or two after. I have to guide the army squad to a suspected deserter. That may take a day, or two, or three. But I’ll be back after that business is sorted out.” He shook his head again, “So you have customers too.” And I replied, “Well, yes, I guess I do.” And he concluded with “Well I’ll work on it and you come back soon so we can see if I got it. Meanwhile, you may want to go talk to Moses about getting some softening oil to put on this armor. It will help you get it to sit right on your frame. Make sure you ask for softening oil or he’ll sell you lamp oil and you sure don’t want that all over you.” I nodded my head and repeated, “Softening oil. OK.” I slipped back into my other armor and he helped me fasten it properly so it would sit right. I grabbed my hat and my saddlebags and went back out into the street.
I decided to stop by and talk to Ben for a moment. Ben was brushing my horse when I stepped into the stable. He heard me coming over the other noises and called out, “Who is it?” And I called back, “The apple fellow.” And Ben looked up and got a smile on his face. He asked me, “How have you been Bene, uh, my lord?” I smiled at him and said, “Oh fair. How about you?” And he replied, “Pretty fair, my lord.” And he resumed his brushing while we talked. “What can you tell me about getting a new bridle or saddle?” And he pinched his eyebrows down and said, “Why would you want to do that? These things of yours are in good condition.” And I replied, “Oh, I was thinking of a gift for a friend. Where could I get leather goods for a horse? The leather worker didn’t seem to have any on display.” Ben replied, “Oh, yea, that’s another shop. The leather worker does saddlebags and pouches, belts and all sorts of stuff, but the horse tack is done by Henry. He’s real good at it too. But there is nothing fancy about it. He doesn’t do the decoration stuff. You’ll have to go to the shop on the street just after you came into town. You went right by it when you got here.” I replied, “Is his shop open during normal times?” And Ben replied, “Oh sure, I guess so. Of course, I don’t buy any of that stuff.”
I wasn’t getting any of the sort of information I wanted to get. I wanted something good that I could use to allow me to talk about Petrus and get other people talking more about it. I wanted some knowledge about this fellow before I talked to him. But I didn’t want to bring up Petrus’ name directly. So I was trying to beat around the bush and get something else. I decided to try again.
“These carts”, I began again, “are well made. The four I’ve seen the clerics use are the same sort of construction as the one we took out of town a few days ago; the one the army loaned me. Where did the Magistrate go to acquire them?” Ben answered, “Oh, I’m sure he got them from the local cartwright. He has a shop between the merchant row and the carpentry guild hall. Everyone seems to like his work. Nobody around here would go anywhere else to get one, not that there is anywhere else to go.” I responded, “There are no other cartwrights in all of the province?” Ben answered, “No, I don’t believe so. None that I have heard of.” This wasn’t getting me anywhere either. I thought of one more approach.
“Where is the merchant’s guild hall in Stonebridge?” Ben said, “I don’t believe there is one. Of course, I’m not a merchant. I work for the Magistrate so I would not need to speak to anyone among the merchant’s guild unless I was treated unfairly by the merchants, and that doesn’t happen in Stonebridge. We have good folks here. Everyone knows everyone else and there’d be consequences if someone were treated poorly. No need for that.” I asked, “Where do the merchants get together to meet?” Ben thought and then said, “I’m not sure. I suppose they could gather in the Green Hawk and talk, but they’d want to do that in the morn or mid-day. It would be too noisy and pushy for them to meet in the evenings, you know. In the evenings, they might talk over at Pertus’ home. That’s big enough I’d wager. He has such a big home and I hear it is even finer on the inside as it is on the out. Mind you, I’ve never been inside. But it is a fine place from the outside, an you can see that for yourself.” Now I was getting somewhere.
“Petrus, who is he that he has such a fine house? I’ve not heard of him.” Ben smiled at me and said, “You are still pretty new around here, I forgot, uh, my lord. I beg your pardon. Petrus is the richest merchant in Stonebridge, and even the whole province. He owns the horse farm over by the bridge. He convinced the previous governor to allow him to dam up the creek and make a pond. At the pond he keeps his horses and he has rights to grazing land all to the east of town. He has eight buildings including his house. He also is related to the fellow that grazes cattle just south of the river. He has rights to the cow hides when the animals are slaughtered so he furnishes them to the leather workers in town. He also owns the tack shop and the cartwright’s shop. They work for him. He also has contacts outside the province where he is able to get dyes and other things. He sells the dyes to the leatherworkers and to the loom in Wool Corner. I believe he has some sort of business relation with just about every merchant, save the open markets, in Stonebridge.” I was surprised how much Ben knew about this man’s enterprise so I asked him, “Ben, how did you come to know all these things?” He replied, “Well, I guess it’s because just about everyone knows about it. You see, my lord, he was here before nearly everyone else. I hear when they built the stone bridge the Emperor had decided there would be a town here. I don’t know why he decided, but it was decided. And after that was decided, Petrus came here and spoke with the Governor and said he wanted to have a horse farm here to supply horses to the military. After they talked, Petrus had an agreement for his grazing rights and permission to own the piece of land on this side of the bridge but the other side of the main road that goes up to the mansion. He was the first merchant in the area so he developed close relations with the previous governor.”
“Petrus helped get the supplies needed to build the governor’s mansion. You see, back then the governor didn’t even have a mansion. When the first governor came here they set up tents and lived in tents until they built the structures. The first building was the guardhouse over at the edge of town. I figure the governor moved in there and used it for his office for a spell. The second building built was the barracks next to it and the storehouse was completed soon after. After these buildings were all built, they started on building the temple, the shrine, the mansion, the stone bridge and the guardhouse next to the stone bridge. It was about this time the clerics came to Stonebridge, but Stonebridge was mostly a military outpost still. As some of these buildings completed, the governor agreed to let a guildhall be built for the stone masons and carpenters at work in the town. After that, this stable was built and Petrus was here and construction began on his home. He had a wooden barn built first and it was as large as the storehouse. But his home was built with stone and it took more time. Once his home was finished, he sent for his wife and children. Anyway, after the governor’s buildings were built, word got out and some merchants came to know there would be a permanent settlement here so some came to begin from the ground up.”
“The general layout of the town was set up with the shops set on the main road and the residences set in another part of town. The governor decided he wanted to set aside land for a park across from the mansion. The original merchant’s row was built with a bunch of wooden structures, but as things developed many of those were replaced with the buildings there today, built on stone foundations with a splash wall to protect them.”