Alanthia
Temple of Light- Sleeping Quarters
Father Ignasio slept, he had ridden hard for days on end, but the one he hunted was always ahead of him. The body count kept rising as well as the one wielding Holy power killed indiscriminately. Those that witnessed the strange man could never agree on how old, size, or weight of the man but they all said he had one gold and one silver eye. He also almost never spoke and avoided Holy places. No one knew why and yet he openly wielded strong Holy abilities and skills. He had tracked the man to the Free City Alliance and Alanthia was the closest Free City and Warden of the North.
Alanthia sat on an island where two rivers met and were a remnant from when kingdoms ruled the south, and not independent city-states that were loseley aligned. Father Ignasio being on the road for so long, decided to rest for a couple of days before trying to take up the trail again. He was sure the man would kill again and kill more now that he was out of the remote countryside and in or near the city.
Suddenly a hand clamped down on his mouth and a was placed at his throat, "I am sorry father for surprising you like this but I was allowed to give you only one warning and this is it. Stop following us. It does not want to be found by you or yours. It has been ordered by higher powers to go somewhere. Very few things in this world can stop it, you are not one of those things. If you continue to track us, we will kill you. Nod if you understand." Father Ignasio slowly nodded, "Now nod if you will do if you are told." Father Ignasio nodded once again.
The man studied before sighing and leaning closer, "Please don't lie to me Father. I know you are part of the Inquisition and that you have never failed. It does not care and could easily kill you. It said that your power will not protect you. Please, Father, something tells me you are one of the good ones, do not pursue us. It really will kill you." Suddenly the man's eyes lit up, one startingly Gold and the other brilliant Silver. "You have been warned Father Ignasio, you will not be warned again." something said through the man before turning and disappearing.
Suddenly the door to his room flew open and a Paladin strode in, "Is everything alright Father, I thought I felt an intruder in here. It almost felt like something bypassed the wards, but that is impossible. They are as old as this city and have never fallen."
Father Ignasio continued to study where the man disappeared before turning toward the Paladin, "It's ok brother. No one besides me was in here. Do you understand." staring into the eyes of the Paladin and meaning more than the words he said. The Paladin quickly caught on and nodded before turning and leaving. Father Ignasio silently lay back down and stared at the ceiling while silently contemplating giving up the hunt for the first time since he joined the Inquisitor ranks.
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Slate Cavern Fortress
Grand Entryway
The thunder of a portal opening and quickly closing filled the night. The guards on station immediately went on alert and readied weapons but the cloaked figure held up his hand holding no weapons. A sword was belted to his waist though, ready to be pulled at a moments notice, but facing over two dozen heavily armed and armored Dwarves he would last only moments. "Who be you coming this late to our home unannounced and without an escort." The lead Dwarf asked as he drew closer.
The cloaked figure studied him and his fellow guards before holding out his hand that carried a signet ring that identified him as a clan friend. "Master Glagor Ironbreaker authorized my entry and sent the portal scroll so that I may gain entry. Our business is private and he stated that he would leave instructions with the guards for you to take me to him immediately. Was he lying?"
The Dwarves paled and immediately started to ignore him except for the leader, "No sir, he did not lie. Our clan pays its debts sir and returning him to us can never be repaid. If you will follow me, I will lead ya to him." The Dwarf nodded to his two closest companions who formed up around Jacob and led him into the depths of the fortress.
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Jacob watched as Glagor ran his hands over the Plagued Stalwart Guardian. The shield had an oval shape, made with wood and rimmed with steel. It looked rather plain looking except for containing a wicked plague that could kill hundreds if not thousands if used within a populated area. So Jacob sat and sipped his beer while Glagor studied the shield with everything he had acquired over the last 200 years of smithing. "I have seen many weapons, armor, and other items constructed by smiths over the years. This is one of the most wicked pieces I have ever encountered. Whoever created this poured Alchemy, Magic, and even Soul Magic to create and meld the Plague with the shield. Its an evil piece of shit that is hiding its true nature but the Plague is definitely a part of it." Glagor stated as he sat back and downed his beer in one go before pulling a shot glass from a nearby cupboard and pouring a shot of alcohol and downing that as well.
"What do you mean the shield is hiding its true nature," Jacob asked as he studied the shield that lay on the table.
Glagor snorted, "Some items become so powerful they gain a form of sentience. They almost become alive. The blade you carry is a very good example of such an item. It's ancient and although it has begun to regain its strength, it is far from its maximum potential. This shield, when they forged it with the Soul Magic involved, they created something very similar. It's an artifact boy, I don't care what your analysis says. Also, if you had equipped this item, it would have consumed you and you would have been bound to it forever, even if you had died. So good thing you immediately put it in your inventory." Glagor explained as he poured another shot and downed it as well. "Lad I am sorry and I would destroy this...monstrosity if I could, but I do not know of any way to destroy an artifact safely. I am also sorry but the shield cannot stay here, its too dangerous and I will not let my clan be exposed to the danger it represents."
Jacob grimaced, "I understand my friend, I would not expect to leave the shield here if you could not destroy it. It's not that I don't trust you, but as you said the shield represents a danger that cannot be ignored nor can it casually be dealt with. Well, can you continue to think about this and if you figure out a way to destroy it, let me know my friend." Jacob told the older Dwarf who nodded and he contemplated the challenge. Jacob smiled before reaching out and touching the dangerous item and willing it back into his inventory.
Quest Updated: Plague Lords Legacy
Description: You went and consulted the Master Smith Glagor Ironbreaker, although he stated he could not destroy the Plagued Stalwart Guardian safely, he did enlighten you that it was far more then what it seemed. It wasn't just an Epic Shield, but a semi-sentient Artifact item. It is up to you to find a way to destroy the item and not let it fall into the hands of someone who would have no problem using the dangerous item.
Difficulty: Nightmare
Rewards: Unknown
"Before I leave, I have a question for you. Have you or your people ever heard of a place called Broken Crown Fortress?" Jacob asked the old Dwarf.
The Dwarf considered the name for a few moments before nodding, "Put your cloak back on and follow me to our Clans Archive. The name sounds familiar but I cannot place it." Jacob quickly downed the remains of his beer before donning the cloak and following Glagor through the Fortress silently followed by the three guards that had brought him originally. 15 minutes later they entered a large room that contained thousands of tomes, books, and various items. A robed Dwarf was sitting at the front desk napping when they entered until Glagor rapped his knuckles on the desk startling him.
"Creacher you old goat, wake up. I need any and all info we got on a place called Broken Crown Fortress. I remember reading something about that place here in the Archives." Glagor told the older Dwarf who slowly roused himself. First, he looked at Glagor but when he saw Jacob standing behind Glagor he frowned.
"Who is this, I haven't heard of any guests being authorized to be in here. You know the rules and law Glagor, we can't.." Creacher responded before Glagor interrupted him quickly.
"Blood Debts trump rules and laws cousin. He needs information on the place and I am sure it has nothing to do with our clan, people, or our home so any information will be safe and if the King says anything, it will blow back on me." Glagor responded. Creacher squinted at Jacob before nodding and disappearing within the bookshelves for a few minutes and returned with a small book, blackened with age.
The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.
"This is the only account of the place you are asking about. It's a very remote fortress located on the Blue Cap Mountains to the south. We call them the Bone Breakers because they are impossible to climb without breaking something. The fortress was once a stronghold for the Titans before they were cast out of the pantheons. Their faithful maintained it for a while but eventually, Ogres moved in and they are not the most hospitable neighbors and followup reports state the Ogres killed most of the Cult members that lived there. What the state of the fortress is now, I have no idea. The last scout report was over 500 years ago." Creacher responded handing over the book that Jacob immediately started looking at and the pages flew by faster and faster until the book slammed shut.
Quest Updated: Lost Lineage
Description: Over the course of time, the Master of Shadows assembled 7 of the 8 pieces of the Blood Lords Armor set. The last piece (Crown) was tracked to Broken Crown Fortress (Crown of Blood), Glagor Ironbreaker clan has assisted you in locating it in the Blue Cap Mountains. The last reports are more than 500 years old though and the current state of the fortress is unknown.
Pieces Collected: 7/8
Difficulty: Nightmare
Rewards: 10,000 Experience per piece, Blood Lords Legacy, Unknown
Quest Updated: Hunting the Cult (Stage 2)
Description: The Master of Shadows, Ezekial, has partially decoded the codex you acquired. He has hinted that Darren should be able to finish decoding the book based on the work he already completed.
Optional: It was revealed that the Broken Crown Fortress was once a Cult stronghold. Find out if this is still true if so destroy the cult's presence there.
Rewards: Unknown
Jacob groaned said his goodbye and thanks to both Dwarves and activated his Ring of Homecoming dreading on what he might have to do and who he would have to talk too. His wife was going to be pissed.
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Tomb of Eternal Night
Palace of Night- Sitting Room
"Are you insane Jacob? I already reported that we killed the traitor to the council and found nothing dangerous in the Plagued Ruins. Now you want to inform my father and ask for his help?!?! NO." Cathrine retorted while Eiloma took a drink from her cup to cover something that sounded suspiciously like a laugh. Jacob glared at both of them.
"Why not, I know we lied but this is dangerous and we need help either finding a way to destroy the shield or containing it. Your people are Noble Undead and would be immune to the plague the shield contains. We are not going to tell the Council of Nine, just your dad and mom." Jacob replied trying to sound perfectly logical and that his idea was the best solution.
Cathrine sighed before pinching the bridge of her nose and taking a deep breath, "My father is one of the Nine if we told him he would have no choice but to tell the remaining members of the Nine. If he did not and they found out, he could be charged with treason. We cannot inform them because we defeated the Plague Lords, not all of those who agreed with them died during our war with them. A small minority of their followers still survive to this day within the Hollowed Tombs, if they find out that shield exists...Our worse theories could happen. I won't let it happen."
Jacob nodded his head in agreement, he didn't like it but he agreed with her. "Well then, it looks like we need someone to help us find a way to destroy an Artifact without releasing what it contains," Jacob said as he thought of the Master of Shadows for the first time in nearly a week.
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Jacob strode through the unmapped portion of the Palace of Night, the same section he had woken in welt felt like years ago, but in reality only a few weeks. Jacob went directly to one cell in particular and deactivated the sigils that blocked the occupant from seeing and hearing anything outside the cell. Ezekial looked far better than the last time Jacob had seen him but the collar around his neck was new. It was probably a form of the Collar of Submission but due to who was bound, more powerful. He immediately rose from the cot and bowed, "How may I be of service my King?"
"You have not sworn an oath to me Ezekial and owe me nothing. I come to ask for knowledge of a dangerous subject. If you cannot help me, you will not be punished for that. Understand?' Jacob asked the older Vampire who simply nodded. 'Do you know a safe way to destroy an Artifact safely?"
Ezekial narrowed his eyes before shaking his head, "Destroying an Artifact level item safely is impossible as far as I am aware. The power to create such items is contained within the bounds of said item and when the vessel is destroyed all the energy and everything contained is released as well. For example, if you were intent on destroying Moonlight, even as weak as it is now, it would level the entire city and collapse this cavern easily. No one would be safe within the blast range. Please tell me you are not planning on destroying the sword, I know it can be stubborn at times, but its an heirloom of our people and a physical representation of our history."
Jacob shook his head, "No, I have no problem with the blade or keeping it intact. It has served me well and protected me. This is about another Artifact I have found that is extremely dangerous that I need to either destroy or contain it so no one can ever use it."
Ezekial considered what Jacob had told him, "It is said the Palace of Night was originally built on the very foundations of the Blood Lords original home. It is a rumor that his family that constructed this palace created a Vault on that foundation and that only those that inherit the Throne of Night can find it. When the Queen awakened you and then adopted you into House Lightsbane you became the heir of the Throne of Night. If you can find the Vault, you should be able to seal this dangerous Artifact within. If someday a way to destroy an Artifact safely, you can always retrieve it then."
Quest Updated: Plague Lords Legacy
Description: You went and consulted the Master Smith Glagor Ironbreaker, although he stated he could not destroy the Plagued Stalwart Guardian safely, he did enlighten you that it was far more then what it seemed. It wasn't just an Epic Shield, but a semi-sentient Artifact item. It is up to you to find a way to destroy the item and not let it fall into the hands of someone who would have no problem using the dangerous item.
Optional: Furthermore after seeking out Ezekial, he informed you that the founders of the City of Eternal Night created a Vault that only could be found and opened by the current ruler of the city. If you find the Vault, it can be used as a refuge to contain the Plagued Artifact until a safe way to destroy it is found.
Difficulty: Nightmare
Rewards: Unknown
"One more thing Ezekial, before I leave. I helped found a guild. I have made possible enemies into allies, and those enemies within this region of the Underdark have either fallen or been driven out. What is the next step in my path? How can I free out people from the Curse that binds us all? How can I bring this city back to the surface?" Jacob asked Ezekial
Alert...
To Rise or Fall (STAGE 3) has been completed, you receive 10,000 Experience, 500 Gold and undying loyalty of Ezekial Master of Shadows.
To Rise or Fall (STAGE 4) has been unlocked.
Alert...
Jacob swore Ezekial had a tear in his eye and a look of pride at what Jacob had done. "Good, very good my King. Empires are not built overnight though, it takes time, money, might, and bloodshed. You have begun to raise our people from the ashes of the old Empire, you must forge a new Empire though. That will take everything I have told you about and you will need to expand our ranks again. Not just Immortals this time, but Locals as well. Most of all, you must raise one to the rank of Full-Blood. Choose one and make a Noble."
Quest Updated: To Rise or Fall (STAGE 4)
Description: Ezekial fanatical rantings have revealed that he wants you to expand how much money you have in your treasury, your military strength, and he wants you to conquer more territory. He has also tasked you with creating more Vampires, but not just from the Immortal ranks, but Locals as well. The most difficult task though is, you must create your first Full-Blood, choose wisely for you are more than likely to create enemies no matter who you choose. What this has to do with breaking the Curse or making sure the Tomb of Eternal Night once again sits on the surface is unknown at this time.
Treasury: 150,565 Gold 93 Silver, 97 Copper/500,000 Gold
Military: 17,283/50,000 People
Conquer 3 Cities and/or Strongholds: 0/3
Create 100 Vampires: 0/50 Immortals, 0/50 Locals
Create a Full-Blood Vampire: Incomplete
Rewards: 1000 Gold, Unknown, To Rise or Fall (STAGE 5)
"Thank you, Ezekial. I won't forget this, I promise." Jacob told the Vampire before activating the glyphs again cutting him off from the rest of the world. Although the Master of Shadows could no longer see him, he still bowed before laying back down on his cot. Maybe its time to consult other powers about lifting the Curse and moving the city out of the Underdark Jacob thought as he left.