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1990-10-22
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Journal Entry 1
Map to the Dragon's Hoard
* door
│ │ ┌──
┌─┴*┴─┐ Archway
│ │ └──
├ ┬───┼─┐
│ * * ├─────┬─────┐ & Red Dragon's Lair
* │ │ * * │
└─┴───┴─┴─────┤ │ ┌───┬─┬─────┬─┬─
^ * │ │ │ * *
| from ─┤ ├───┼*┬*┴─┼───┬─┤ ├─
new │ * │ │ * │ * │
Verdigris └─────┤ │ │ │ │ │ │
│ │ │ │ │ │ │
│ │ └─┬─┼─*┬┴─┘ │
│ │ │ * │ │
└─┬*┴──*┼*┤ └──┐ │
│ │ │ │
└─────┼ ┼─────┴─┘
│ │
│ │
│ │
├ ┤
│ │
│ │
│ │
┌───┼*┤
│ │ │
├ ┐ │ └─┐
│ │ │ │
┌─┤ │ └── ┤
│ * │ │
┌─┴*┴─┼─────┘
│ │
├ ┬───┼─┐
│ * * │
─┤ │ │ ├─────┬───┐
* │ │ * * │
─┴─┴───┼─┼─────┤ │
│ * * │
─┬───┬───┬─┐ │ │ │ ├─
* * │ │ │ │ *
─┤ ├───┼*┤ │ │ ├───┤
│ │ │ │ │ │ │
├ ┬ ┤ │ │ │ ├─┬*┬─┘
│ │ * │ │ │ │
│ │ ├──*┤ ├─┐ │ │
│ │ │ │ * │ │ │
─┼─┼─┴*┬─┴─┼*┴─┴*┤
* * │ │ │
─┤ │ │ └─────┘
│ │ │
│ └───┤
│ │
│ ├─────┐
│ │ │
├──*──┤ ┌───┘
* │ │
─┤ * │
└─────┤ │
│ │
┌───┼*┤
│ │ │
├ ┐ │ └─┐
│ │ │ │
┌─┤ │ └── ┤
│ * │ │
├*┼─┴───┬─┴───┐
│ * * │
┌─┬─┴─┴─┬───┤ │
│ * * │
│ ├─┬───┴───┤ │
│ │&│ │ *
│ ├*┤ └─────┼─
│ * │
└─┴─┘
Journal Entry 2
Fanatic Soldier's Tale
'We have done it! Our noble ancestors are being freed from the ice and
they fight by our side as brothers! Oh, to see the Legion again! I never
thought it possible. No one can stop us now.'
His voice softens to a hoarse growl. 'They say that the personal bodyguard
of Eldamar has been found and fights for us.' he whispers. 'I can now die
in honor, knowing that our enemies will soon be destroyed.'
The fighter smiles and dies.
Journal Entry 3
Sir Deric's Story
'The Black Circle Laid an ambush for our party. Nearly everyone was
captured or killed. I was unconscious and left for dead. Since that time
I have sought to free my companions. At least two lie ahead and I shall
seek them out. In this stolen Black Circle garb I may succeed. With your
help I certainly will. As honorable men, will you join me on my quest?'
Journal Entry 4
Black Circle Mage at Top of Mine
'We have just driven the foul beasts from the mine entrance. We will not
inform the town until the mine is fully cleared. We do not wish to raise
false hopes.'
Journal Entry 5
Mayor Talking of the Black Circle
'We've had a number of dealings with the magic brotherhood known as the
Black Circle. They have aided us in the past in return for gems. It was
based on their divination that we extended our lower tunnels - and
uncovered the monsters. Marcus is the only member that lives in town, but
he keeps to himself. The Black Circle say that they are studying ways to
stop the monsters and will act only when they are sure of success.
Journal Entry 6
'One of the miners saw red robed figures outside the east wall.'
Journal Entry 7
Old Man's Tale of the Scroll
'My uncle adventured along the shores of the Moonsea. He was a warrior who
ventured on many a great quest. He feared nothing - nothing that is except
dragons. Though he never met one, he was terrified by the possibility.
This scroll was his insurance. When he died - from a knife wound gotten in
a bawdy house - he passed it on to me. Seeing as how I'm unlikely to
survive a dragon with this scroll I thought you might like it.'
Journal Entry 8
'I didn't drink that much. I'm sure that mouse in the corner was glowing.'
Journal Entry 9
Old Man's Tale of the Black Circle
'Them Black Circlers are a hostile bunch, but don't judge 'em too hard.
They was once mages serving the two brothers who ruled the old town. They
used the Well's teleporters too many times and was cursed by the Well. If
yah use them too often, yah will join the Circle. It serves the dark
nature of the Well and they hate all others.'
Journal Entry 10
A Dying Man's Last Word
'Don't go near that temple in the mines! There is an illusion of goodness
there, but don't be fooled. It is ruled by some unknown demon. One of
it's minions referred to it as the Flaming One. I never saw it. I was
ambushed as soon as I encamped near the altar. Now that I have passed on
my warning I can die in peace.'
The man ceases to breathe.
Journal Entry 11
Exultant Banite Priest
'The Beholder Corps has returned and is housed in the dungeons. Now
nothing can harm the Dreadlord. Anyone who tries to penetrate the dungeons
will be vaporized within seconds. Hah, hah, hah! The world will soon
belong to us.'
Journal Entry 12
Old Man's Tale of the Temple
'Twas long ago that the old town was a thrivin' place. The mine was there
then too. Folks was ruled by a fellow who worshipped Tyr. He thought the
miners was deservin' of Tyr's protection. Some of the folks round here say
that the temple can still be found. Only those of stout heart should try
though. Things buried so long tend to harbor ghosts that don't like
disturbin'.
Journal Entry 13
Blind Mage's Story
'I led a band of heroes to clear the mines. We discovered the dungeons and
were nearly to the top when the Black Circle sprung their ambush. I was a
local who never trusted the Circle's claims of friendship, so they were
glad to capture me. Not content to simply kill me, they prepared an
elaborate wish. It traps me in this cell, blind and unable to cast spells.
It also had the side effect of rendering me immortal and immune to damage.
Once you free me I shall regain my own powers, but also lose these
benefits. This is a fair exchange.
'I return to my tower now, but let me give some reward. First seek the
souls trapped in the highest level. They know important information.
Second, take this map to where I have hidden some treasures.'
Journal Entry 14
The Captain's Tale
'We were about to enter the Well. The rope was slippery with the slimy
blood of the dragon but nothing could stop us from our goal. The gems
glittered on the bottom luring us with untold wealth. Gramkal was the
first to go, of course. The thief was almost bursting with excitement as
he reached down to take the gems. Poor man, his shriveled hand will never
pick another pocket.'
Journal Entry 15
Meeting the Frost Giant King
'So, not content with melting away our home you carry the war directly to
us. We have held these crevasses for generations. We will not surrender
them to the likes of you. Look to your lives! I am prepared to die. Are
you?'
Journal Entry 16
Black Circle Commander's Paper
We are prepared. The inner sanctum is well concealed, surrounded by the
hatchling pool. We hope that the old Red Dragon will not miss the
hatchlings; they provide an excellent defense. Soon we must find a way to
age them to a more useful size.
Use the map to plan an attack on Well. We expect regular progress reports.
If you fail, we will act on a suggestion made by a junior member. He
believes that the dragon may be amenable to a human sacrifice. The clerk
from Phlan has become expendable and will be the first victim. One way or
another the dragon and it's Banite allies will fall; the Well must be ours.
Journal Entry 17
Old Man's Tale of the Brother Wars
'The old town was said to be a fabulous place for a time. Was ruled by
brothers, one honorable and forthright, the other a studious and insecure
mage. One day the mage
decided he would live forever. The brother thought that was blasphemy and
tried to stop him. War covered the valley and the town was laid waste.
The gods cursed the valley and froze it over. These new monsters are just
more of the valley's curse. WE can only wait and suffer 'till the gods see
fit to lift the curse.'
Journal Entry 18
Story of the Silver Blades
Derf reclines in a chair and begins,
'Three hundred years ago there were two brothers: Oswulf, a paladin, and
Eldamar, a mage. Both were powerful and worshiped Tyr, god of justice. As
Eldamar grew old he became obsessed with gaining immortality; serving Tyr
was no longer enough. He became insane and isolated himself in the upper
levels of the Castle of the Twins. There he researched the arcane magic
necessary to become a lich. Oswulf discovered this, but was unable to
convince his brother to abandon his madness.
'Forseeing the evil that a lich would produce, Oswulf left the Castle and
searched for 12 great heroes. These he forged into the band he called the
Silver Blades. By the time Oswulf could return to this valley, Eldamar had
completed his spells and was reborn as the lich called the Dreadlord. The
Dreadlord summoned evil forces to protect him. The Silver Blades faced a
pitched battle among the buildings of Verdigris. The town was laid waste
and many of the heroes fell. Those of us who remained forced the evil
horde back to the castle gates.
'Oswulf refused to push on and slay his brother. Instead our mages and
clerics cast a spell to freeze the valley permanently within a glacier.
The Dreadlord's forces counterattacked while the spell was being cast and
Oswulf fell protecting us. His body lies on the level above, but his
spirit still guards the castle, preventing the reawakening of the
Dreadlord. As the last of the Silver Blades, I chose to remain here to
maintain my temple and keep watch as well.
'Now the descendants of the Dreadlord's disciples have returned. The Black
Circle is succeeding in unraveling our spell. I am now bound to this
temple and cannot take the battle to them. You must take up the Silver
Blades' standard and end the Dreadlord's threat forever.'
Journal Entry 19
The Amulet of Eldmar.
'Know now of the Amulet of Eldamar, stolen long ago. It was taken by a
wily thief who held it for but a day. As he dreamed of wealth, he fell
victim to a red dragon, kin to the one you slew to free me. The amulet now
adorns the dragon's hoard, which lies in the south-western corner of the
city.
'The map starts at the entrance to the new town. Follow the path.'
Journal Entry 20
'That old man - south of the mayor's place - can sure talk yer ear off.'
Journal Entry 21
Early Days of the Town
'This whole valley used to be filled with a glacier. About 15 years ago it
melted back beyond the old mineshaft. Miners from throughout the
Dragonspines flocked here and formed the new town. The Black Circle helped
them open the mine. A few years later the miners began to extract the gems
again. Until these monsters came the town was doing quite well. The
glacier kept going back too. In a few years the entire valley will be
open.'
Journal Entry 22
Dying Cleric of Bane.
'The Black Circle is trying to take our Well! They seek the death of the
red dragon who holds it in sacred trust. I was ambushed while trying to
entice the young dragons from the Well. They dragged me here to... to...'
The Banite Cleric fades to death.
Journal Entry 23
Talk of Mystical Items.
'The mages keep looking for a mysterious amulet. It is connected in some
way to their whole purpose for being here. They say it will reveal some
key to a mysterious sanctum. Perhaps they are after great treasure.'
Journal Entry 24
The Guard of Grimdra Hoard
'Grimdra discovered where the Well stored its gems - for they are not
consumed. He dug a small tunnel and has diverted them for centuries. I am
certain that the gems are what sustain him. He has never sold a single one
and he was old when the twins were born.'
Journal Entry 25
Message From the Well
'The miners' plight masks a more serious threat. Should the Black Circle
succeed in its plans, the entire Realms will feel the result. The mages
seek the awakening of the Dreadlord, an evil of incalculable power. He
sleeps within his castle, trapped with in the glacier. The Circle has
reached the dungeons and are melting their way upward. The monsters
trapped in the dungeons are being released and allowed to harry the miners.
'My powers are subject to laws you cannot understand. I am privy to
information only at certain times and only when you sacrifice gems. Still,
seek me out when you have questions. My powers are at your disposal.
'My teleporters are paired. Each teleporter that rings me has a brother
somewhere in the valley. Until you visit both gates, you may not use that
pair. To my northwest is the gate which connects to the new town.
'My power fades. Return to me with gems when you have more questions.'
Journal Entry 26
Warning about the Amulet
'The Dreadlord seeks the Amulet of Eldamar. If he can trick someone into
bringing the amulet into the dungeons beneath the castle, he will be
awakened. Even worse, it acts as a monster attractant. Evil creatures
throughout the region will seek out the holder. Remember always to avoid
this item.'
Journal Entry 27
Rescued Maiden's Story
'The mages took me to be sacrificed to the red dragon. They wanted access
to the teleportation booths and the hoard of gems. My father is an
unwitting servant of the Black Circle. When he became suspicious, they
kidnapped me to keep him silent. Now I'm sure they must have killed him.
I must leave!'
She runs away sobbing with grief.
Journal Entry 28
Old Man's Tale of the Vorpal Blade
'This here blade has been carried down from my great-great grandpappy. He
almost captured a throne out near Waterdeep, but tired of the campaigning.
Travelled up to Myth Drannor and stood with elves against a Flight of the
Dragons. They were impressed enough to let him retire there. Married an
elven princess and led a settled life. Far as I know she left with the
other elves and is still alive.'
Journal Entry 29
Vala's Description of the Old Castle
'I was here as a young child. Oswulf used to hold town meetings in the
great hall. The hall was huge - much larger than this - and I don't recall
any alcoves. These alcoves along the side were definitely put there by the
Dreadlord. I suspect that he has radically changed the entire castle.
Oswulf had said that his brother had become paranoid and turned the castle
into a maze of traps. We must watch where we place our feet, any stone
could conceal a pit or dart.'
Journal Entry 30
'So many gems down in that mine and no way to get at them. Life ain't
fair.'
Journal Entry 31
Banite Patrol's Story
'The Black Circle usurped our control of the Well of Knowledge. Bane was
offended and sent a red dragon in vengeance. The dragon drove out the
infidels and now holds the Well in trust. There he shall remain until Bane
deems it time for our return. Death to the Black Circle! Death to the
enemies of Bane!'
Journal Entry 32
Map of the 4th Level
┌───┬─┬─────────┐
│ │ * │
│ │ ├───┬─*─┐ │
│ * │ │ │ │
├───┘ │ │ │ │
│ │ │ │ │
│ ┌───┼──*┴─┬*┤ │
│ * │ │T│ │
│ │ ├U┬D┐ └─┘ │ U - Stairs going Up
│ │ │ U │ │ D - Stairs going Down
│ └───┼─┼─┴─────┘ T - Teleporter
│ = │ K - Silver Key
├──*┐ ├─┤ = - Jail Cell
│ │ = │ * - Door
│ │ ├─┤
│ │ = │
├───┤ ├─┤
│K * = │
│ │ └─┤
│ │ *
└───┴───┘
Journal Entry 33
Prisoner's Tale
'I am one of the champions who sought to free the town from its monstrous
scourge. We penetrated the mines and passed through the excavated tunnel
to these dungeons. We were led by a powerful mage who was able to answer
the riddles posed by that mad spirit. Near the top of the dungeon we were
ambushed by the Black Circle. Many died and none escaped. Our leader was
taken away fro some black rites. That spirit hates the living Its laughter
is driving me mad! I must escape to the open air!'
Journal Entry 34
Old Man's Tale of the Flaming One
'The Flaming One is an accursed demon, destined to live as long as man
walks the earth. He can possess anything of flesh. Last time he was
defeated was in Myth Drannor and rumor held that he had died. If yah
listen to travellers, yah can trace his movements. He is trapped in some
diminutive form and seeks the power to release himself. I think he's
skulking the ruins, seeking the power of the Dreadlord.'
Journal Entry 35
Map to Level 8 Toom
Roughly, the path is as follows
│ /Shaft
─&─
│
│
│
│
└┐
│
┌┘
│
│
│
│
┌──┴──
┌┘
┌┘
│
│
│
│
│
│
├──
──┤ Toom
│ /
└──────────X──
Journal Entry 36
Map Purchased from Storm Giants
┌*──────────┐
│ │
└───────┐ │ │
│ │ │
│ │ │
│ │
┌───┤ │
│ │ │
───*┘ │ │ │
│ │
──┐ ├───┤
│ │ │
│ │ │ │
* │ │
└───┤ │
│ │
│ │
│
┌──┬────*──────────── │
│ * │
└──┴───────────────────┘
Journal Entry 37
Mayor's Introduction
'We are a small town of miners in desperate straits. Three months ago we
opened a new shaft and monsters boiled fort. Perhaps this is a gateway to
the Abyss. In any case, we lost many comrades as the monsters have climbed
up level after level of the mine. Now they are invading the nearby ruins.
Soon they will reach New Verdigris.
'To add to our problems, something has captured the Well of Knowledge. The
Well imparts information, occasionally grants wishes and controls the
teleporter in my house. If you free the Well, then you can use the
teleporter to move through the ruins.
'Once the Well is protected, you must descend into the mines and stop these
horrors from emerging. Others have tried, but none have returned. You
must save us before we are overwhelmed.'
Journal Entry 38
Map to Black Circle Headquarters
┌───────┤ │
& - Mine Shaft │ │ │
│ ┌*─*┐ │ │
* - Door │ * * │ │
│ │ & │ ├*┤
│ │ * * * │
- Archway ┌───┬───┬─┐ │ └*─*┘ ├─┤
│ * * │ │ * │
│ ├───┼*┼─┴*──┬───┴─┘
│ │ │ │ │
├ ┬ ┤ │ ├ ┬───┼─┐
│ │ * │ │ * * │
│ │ ├──*┤ │ │ │ │
│ │ │ │ * │ │ *
└─┼─┴*┬─┴─┴─┴───┴─┘
│ │
┌─┬─────┬───┤ │
│ * * │
┌───┴*┼─────┴───┤ │
│ │ │ │
├*┬*┬─┘ └*──┘
│ * │
│ ├─┘
│ │
└*┘
Journal Entry 39
Old Man's Tale of the Cloak
'My grandpappy was a paladin out near Cormyr, in the days before King
Azoun. Family's come down a bit since then, but make no nevermind. He was
beloved of a noble lady. She was a warrior maiden, namesake of Azoun's
daughter Nacacia. Anyway, she kept trying to attract him, tie him down and
so on. In turn, he would go on longer and more dangerous quests.
'Nacacia took this in stride and eventually gave him this cloak as a
present, saying that this way he could be around and elsewhere at the same
time. My dad was their child and passed the cloak down to me. I think
that it's too useful just to keep as an heirloom - and none of my kids
deserve it - so put it to good use.'
Journal Entry 40
Ledger from New Verdigris Mining
2nd Tenday of Highsun New Verdigris Mining
1) 250
2) 300
3) 75 (Hill Giant attack)
4) 350
5) 50 (Medusa attack)
6) 100 (Wyvern attack)
7),8,9,10) General Strike - no work
'Where are all these monsters coming from? We can't get any work done!'
Journal Entry 41
Map to the First Key
to level 6
┌U┬─┬───┐
│ │ * │
│ │ │ │
│ │ │ │
│ │ ├*──┤
│ │ │ │
├*┼*┤ │
│ │ │ │
│ │ └─┬*┤
│ │ │ │
│ │ │ │
│ * │ │
├─┼───┘ │
│ │ │
│ │ ┌─┬─┤
│ │ │ U │ from level 8
├*┴*┴U┼U┤
│ * │
├──*┬*┼─┤
│ │ = │
│ │ ├─┤
│ * = │
├───┼=┼─┤
│ │ = │
│ │ ├─┤
│ * = │
├───┼=┼─┤
│ │ = │
│ │ ├─┤
│ │ = │
├*┬*┤ ├─┤
│K│ * = │
└─┴─┴─┴─┘
Journal Entry 42
The Medusa's Tale
'I don't care! We have been cheated of our rightful place in the
Dreadlord's hierarchy. The Black Circle must pay! They may have freed our
master, but he is still weak and does not realize their plans! I shall go
and tell him!'
Journal Entry 43
Letter from Marcus to the Black Circle
The new band the mayor has recruited seems superior to the last group. The
townsmen managed to reach the Well prior to the red dragon. They WISHED
for champions to protect them. Fortunately for us, the wish worked
literally and brought only the people. The mayor has to clothe, feed and
equip them. It was quite a sight to see these naked and angry people
waking up right in the middle of a town meeting. I don't think they will
pose a threat.
Journal Entry 44
Phlan Clerk's Tale
'Well, I had just made my escape and was preparing to return to Phlan when
I was grabbed by those vile Black Circle scum! Do they never bathe? The
council back at Phlan will hear about this!
'Anyway, where was I? Oh yes, mauled by filthy beasts. They started
babbling about sacrifices and a Dreadlord. Dreadlord this and Dreadlord
that, all they talk about is this Dreadlord. If he's so powerful, why does
he let these disgusting people serve him?'
She gets a sly look in her eyes.
'They dragged me here and I feigned unconsciousness - I wasn't going to
make it easy for them. The scum started whispering about great treasures
hidden in the crevasses. The western tunnels and a vorpal something were
mentioned. Strange name for a valuable object. You wouldn't have a spare
dress around? Look at mine. Dragged through mud and ice, absolutely
filthy. And my hair ...'
She starts complaining about trivial matters.
Journal Entry 45
Map between Black Circle HQ and Well
│ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │
├*┤ └─┴───┘ └───┴─┴─┴───┘ └───┴─┴─┼─┐
│ * * │
┌─┬─────┤ └─┬─────┬─────┬─────┬──────────*┼*┤
│ * * * * * │ * │
│ │ ├───┴─────┴───┬─┤ │ ┌────*┬───┴─┘
│ │ │XXXXXXXXXXXXX│ * │ │ │
│ │ │XXXXXXXXXXXXX└─┤ │ ├─┬─┬─┘
│ │ │XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX│ * │ * │
│ ├─┬*┬─┘XXXXXXXXXXXXX┌─┼─────┤ │ ├─┘
│ │X│ │XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX│ │ │ │
│ │X└─┘XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX│ └───┐ ├*┼*┴─┐
│ │XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX│ * │ │ │
┌─┼*┴─┐XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX│ ┌─┬─┴─┼─┴─┐ │
│ │ │XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX│ │ │ │ │ │
├*┤ │XXXXXXXXXXXXX┌───┤ │ │ │ │ │
│ │ │XXXXXXXXXXXXX│ │ * │ * │ │
┌───┬───┤ └───┼─────┬───┬───┘ ┌*┤ ├─┴───┼─┬*┴*┤
│ │ │ * * │ * * │ │
│ │ │ ┌*┐ ├─────┴───┴─────┴─┴─┴─────┴─┴───┘
│ │ │ │ │ │
┌───┐ ├─┬*┼*──┘ │ │ │
* │ │ │ │ │ │ │
│ │ ├*┴*┘ ┌─┬─┴─┼*┤
│ │ │ * │ │ │
┌───┬───┬─┤ │ │ ┌─┐ └─┤ │ │
* * │ │ │ │ │ │ * │
│ ├───┼*┼──*┴─┐ │ │ ├─┐ ├*┬─┴*┤
│ │ │ │ │ │ │ * * * │ │
├ ┬ ┤ │ ├ ┬───┼─┤ │ ├─┤ └─┘ ┌─┘
│ │ * │ │ * * │ │ │ │ │
│ │ ├──*┤ │ │ │ │ ├─┤ ├─────┘
│ │ │ │ * │ │ * * * │
└─┴─┼*┬─┼─┴─┴───┴─┴─┴─┴─┘
│ * │
└─┴─┘
Journal Entry 46
Letter from Mulmaster
Know, oh ancient Dreadlord, that we remember our pledges -even those made
over 300 years ago. As was promised, the newly reformed Beholder Corps
will be sent to serve you for a period of 1313 days. We are gladdened that
you have reawakened and hope that the alliance will continue in the same
spirit that founded it centuries ago.
In Bane's Name,
Imperator Dhazheal
Journal Entry 47
Mayor Relates Yulash Experiences
'Not long ago I served Hillsfar as a Red Plume. I was faithful and they
made me a commander of the city of Yulash. We were locked in a fierce war
to protect that city from the forces of Zhentil Keep. The war tired me and
I began to yearn for peace. What finally decided me was the Cult of
Moander. It used my city as a base to restore its dead god to life. Were
it not for a band of blue tattooed
adventurers the Cult might have succeeded.
I left as the Zhentrim attacked again and wandered north. Here I found my
leadership skills in need, so became mayor of this peaceful backwater. Now
that peace is threatened. I hope you have the power to protect us.'
Journal Entry 48
The Glowing Mouse's Speech
'You thought that you had defeated me in Myth Drannor and before that in my
castle in Phlan. Know now that I am truly immortal. When the Gauntlet of
Moander destroyed the Pool of Radiance, I feigned my death and managed to
possess this creature. Now that you are here I can take one of you over
and be free again.'
Journal Entry 49
Map of the Black Circle's Inner Sanctum
│ │
┌───────┬───┬───┴*┼─┬───┬─┬───┬─┐
│ │ * │X│ │ │ S T - Teleporter
│ ┌───┐ │ ├─┬───┴─┼ ┐ │ ├──*┤ │
│ * │ │ │ * │ │ │ │ │ │ S - Secret Door
├─┤ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │
│ * │ * │ │ │ │ │ │ │ * - Door
│ └───┼─┴─┬─┤ │ │ └─┼─┤ │ │
│ * * │ │ │ │X│ │ │ X - Impassable Area
├───┬─┤ │ │ ├──*┬─┴─┐ ├─┴*─*┴*┤
│ * │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ - Wall
│ │ └───┘ │ │ ├ ┐ │ │ │
│ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │
├──*┼───┬───┤ ├*──┤ │ │ │ ┌*─*┐ │
│ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │
│ ├──*┴──*┘ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │
│ * │ * │ │ │ T │ │
└───┴─────────┴───┴─┴─┴─┴─┴───┴─┘
Journal Entry 50
Derf Meeting Vala
Vala chortles "Derf, you fuzzy old man, you look even cuter with white
hair." She pinches his cheek and gives him a big hug.
When she releases him, his cheeks are bright red and he sputters, "Now,
stop that!" He straightens out his robe and continues, "How can you be
alive? You were lost in the great battle."
She smiles and explains, "I was captured by the Dread Legion and encased in
a mystical cage until these adventurers released me."
He responds, "Thank Tyr!" He looks her in the eyes with a soft expression
and says, "The Legion has returned and is unravelling our spells. The
Dreadlord's threat must be ended forever."
She responds, "I still remember my vows and will do what is necessary."
With that, she falls back into rank and the old dwarf recovers some of his
dignity.
Journal Entry 51
Old Man's Tale of the Government House
'Once heard tell about the impressiveness of the old town.
There was a great castle at the head of the valley. Then south of the mine
was the old Government House. It was a large place, richly decorated,
where affairs of state were conducted. Was built stoutly, so should be
still standin'. Good loot no doubt, if you can stand the ghosts of the
clerks and bean counters.'
Journal Entry 52
Map to Blind Man's Treasure
│ │ │
┌=─=─=─=┘ │ │
│ * │
├=┬=┬=┬=┐ ├───┐ │
│ │ │ │ │ │ * │
├─┼─┼─┼─┤ ├─┐ │ │
│ │ │ │ │ │!* │ │
├=┴=┴=┴=┘ ├─┤ │ │
│ │ * │ *
└─────────┴─┴─┴─┘
Journal Entry 53
The Black Circle's Plan
The path to the Castle of the Twins was revealed when Oswulf's Confession
was rediscovered. Oswulf gave his final confession to his cleric just
before the ice encased the valley. The Dread Legion of Magic persuaded the
cleric to reveal the Confession. Their leaders expanded and annotated the
document. Their hopes of a quick penetration of the glacier were dashed
when the Legion was nearly destroyed at Ashabenford. The Confession has
been lost since that time.
We of the Black Circle are the descendants of the Legion. Now that we have
the Confession again our plans can proceed. We have broken the glacier and
it recedes slowly. The Silver Blades are gone, so no one can stop us from
releasing the Dreadlord. It is only a matter of time.
Still, we chafe at unnecessary delay. We have tricked the miners into
opening the way into opening the way into the dungeons. We are now
recruiting fire-using creatures to melt a way upward. The monsters we
release serve to keep away intruders.
The solving of the Dreadlord's dungeon riddles has cost us many lesser
mages. Illusions have sent many scouts to unwitting deaths. We are
proceeding, but would do better with control of the Well of Knowledge. Its
wisdom and control of the teleportation gates would aid us greatly. We
also seek the Amulet of Eldamar to pass the three great doors to the
Sanctum.
Divination shows that a third item will be required to reach the Dreadlord.
The signs indicate Tyr is involved with the item, but nothing is clear.
The temple in the mine seems to hold nothing of value.
Journal Entry 54
Old Man's Tale of the Well of Knowledge
'The Well of Knowledge was the heart of the old town. It controlled the
gateways that allowed travel throughout the valley. Also, it served the
old town by providing its enigmatic messages. The town used it but they
did not build it. It was there when the first men entered the valley and
it is said that it will remain when all else is gone.'
Journal Entry 55
Clerk's Story
'I served the city of Phlan in the capacity of head clerk.
During the reconquest of the city, I contracted out missions to the many
heroes who freed the city. I had contacts with the Black Circle because of
their access to the gems of Verdigris. We went through many gems in the
early days of the city, as they were awarded to the heroes for successful
completion of their missions.
'After Phlan was freed, the council agreed to act as middlemen for the
Circle. In return for our help they continued to replenish the city's
treasury. I was sent here as a contact while the council works out the
alliance between the Black Circle and the Red Wizards.
'I have been here long enough to know that these mages are very dangerous.
This scroll is a map of the Circle's inner sanctum. Take it! I'm getting
out before the Circle succeeds in its plans. Good day!'
The woman storms out of the room with haughty dignity. She slams the door
and her brisk steps recede down the hallway.
Journal Entry 56
Meeting with Oswulf
'My hopes of keeping my brother from the world are crumbling with this ice.
If the Dreadlord's evil cannot be contained then it must be destroyed. I
am reassured that it is the Silver Blades who come to finish what we
started centuries ago. Please remember that it is the lich and not my
misguided brother's soul that is evil. Upon your honor I charge you with
freeing his soul from the lich's taint. I shall hold the gate here, but
the Dreadlord may escape through another exit. You must succeed...'
A tear appears in the giant spirit's eye, 'You must succeed...'
Journal Entry 57
Letter found blowing in the Wind
Marcus, our plans proceed as well as can be expected. It is unfortunate
that the Red Dragon has taken the Well of Knowledge. The Red Wizards may
support us if they think we are after the Well. We will keep our real
target to ourselves. We are using a contact in Phlan as a middleman. In
turn, he has sent a clerk to take care of communications. She has no
knowledge of our real intent.
We are running out of some spell components, especially bat guano and
sulfur. When is the next shipment due? Maintain contact by standard
means.
One final note. Rumor indicates that the mayor has brought together a new
force to clear the mines and the Well. We are concerned. Reply with the
information as soon as possible.
Journal Entry 58
A prisoner's speech
'The driders have returned to this area only recently. They have been
unable to enter this valley because of the ice blocking their tunnels.
Suddenly the tunnels melted clear and many new monsters began to appear.
The driders remember these creatures from over 300 years ago, when the
valley was torn by a battle between two brothers. One of the brothers was
responsible for the ice, but the driders have no idea how.'
Journal Entry 59
Tale of the Wounded Warrior
'If it weren't so terrifying it would have been comical. We were deep in
the mines when our party came to the cavern. A horrid mass of unspeakable
monsters were there listening to a high pitched, squeaky voice. It took us
a while to spot the source of that piping. Valgur laughed when he saw it.
That was our downfall. The monsters heard and attacked. As I crawled from
the fray badly wounded, I saw the creature in the back of the horde. It
was only a glowing mouse!'
Journal Entry 60
Mayor reveals his true mission
'Now that you have discovered the way to reach the Dreadlord, your
usefulness is at an end. I still serve Hillsfar and my mission has been to
recruit the Dreadlord. With his power Hillsfar can take control of the
Dalelands and the Moonsea. I will become governor of the northern
provinces and be wealthy beyond imagining.'
Journal Entry 62
Mage's Report
Our flaming creatures are clearing the ice quite quickly now. The dungeon
is open to just below the castle, where ice is much more resistant.
Thankfully we have discovered a second door upward. This leads along a
winding tunnel into a glacial crevasse. This was undoubtedly an old escape
tunnel hidden by the Dreadlord.
We have seen no sign of adventurers, but disturbances have been reported in
the lower levels. As a precaution, we have thawed out the purple worms.
This will slow us down, but will provide needed defenses.
Journal Entry 63
Vala's Story
The amazonian woman collapses as she steps down from the shattered prison.
As you rush to help, her eyes flutter open and she moans, 'Who are you?
Where am I?'
After you explain what you know and she has revived, she growls, 'The
Legion will pay. They have left me imprisoned for 300 years; since the
great battles. They captured me and imprisoned me in that shimmering cage.
'So the war over the Dreadlord continues to this day. My vows compel me to
continue this battle. I am Vala of the Silver Blades and will aid you in
this war.'
Journal Entry 64
Mad Dwarf's Ramblings
'Build 'em an arm today, a couple of chests tomorrow. Maybe slam out a few
spare eyes. Wizards are queer birds - all skin and bones and glowin' eyes.
Always distractin' yah, cacklin' and gigglin'. Iron statues, always more
bits and pieces. They do strange things to 'em next door. Never can be
sure with wizards. Next thing yah know the statues will be walkin'. Never
be to sure...'
Journal Entry 65
Letter in Temple
We go into battle today to stop the Dreadlord. I am fearful, but Oswulf is
confident. When he speaks I find my courage returns. I hope everyone at
home is happy. With any luck I will be home soon.
Your loving son,
Jhaele
Journal Entry 66
Map Retrieved from Storm Giant Leader's Pouch
┌───────┬*──────────┐
│ │ │ X - Impassable
│ ┌─┐ └───┬───┐
│ │X│ │ │ │ I - Imaginary Wall
│ ├─┘ └──── │ │ │ │
│ │ │ │ │ * - Door
│ │ ───── │ ├──*┘
│ │ │ │ U - Stairs up
│ │ └───┘
│ │ │
│ │ │ - Wall
│ │
│ └─┐
│ │
├── │
│ │
│ ──┤
│ │
├── │
│ │
├I┬─┘
│U│
└─┘
Journal Entry 67
Mad Cleric's Ramblings
'Questioned the high lord Bane once, you know. Didn't think that the
Dreadlord was worthy of his attentions. Questioned that, I did. You know
that questions are a burden? Very burdensome for a god. Then came the
Silver Blades and I questioned again. Then came the ice and I called out
to Bane. In his wisdom he kept my mind from freezing. Let me think about
my questions for 300 years, with only ice as far as the eye could see.
Can't see very far through i e either. Unmoving for 300 years gives a man
pause. Finally I discovered the answer and I sacrificed my mind.
Sacrifice is a balm to the gods. Gods inspire the mad. Madness flows
from...'
Journal Entry 68
Map of the 8th Level of the Dungeon
┌─┬─┬─┬─┐
│ = = │U│ S - Secret Door
├─┤ ├─┤ │
│ = = │ │ U - Stairs Up
├─┤ ├─┤ │
│ = = │ │ D - Stairs Down
├─┼=┼─┼*┤
│ = = │ │ T - Transporter
├─┤ ├─┤ │
│ = = │ │ = - Jail Door
├─┤ ├─┤ │
│ = = S │ * - Door
├─┴─┼─┼─┤
│ │ * │
│ │ │ │
│ S │ │
├─┬─┤ │ │
│ * │ │ │
│ │ │ │ │
│ │ │ │ │
│ │ ├─┘ │
│ │ │ │
├*┤ │ ┌─┤
│T│ │ │ │
├─┘ │ │ │
│ │ │ │
│ ┌─┘ │ │
│ │ │ │
│ ├*┬─┤ │
│ * * │ │
├─┼*┤ │ │
│D* │ * │
└─┴─┴─┴─┘
Journal Entry 69
Clerk's Letter
My dear Sasha,
I'm sorry to hear that you have concerns about the Black Circle. However,
their continued good will is essential. Their control of the Verdigris
Mine gives us the gems we need at a reasonable price. As long as these
shipments continue, we will not investigate them too closely. You may tell
them that my negotiations with the Red Wizards proceed very well. Some may
be on their way even now. Should this turn out as well as I hope, you can
count on a position as my personal scribe.
With my strongest felicitations,
Gragnak Ulfrim
Councilor of New Phlan
Journal Entry 70
Prisoner's Tale.
'The Black Circle has collected us as payment to the driders. In return
the driders will help them with some mysterious rite. One stronger
prisoner was taken from among us. I believe he is to be a sacrifice. You
must seek him out and save him as well.'
Journal Entry 71
Significance of the Amulet.
'The Amulet of Eldamar will reveal three keys hidden within the dungeon.
The keys open the three doors guarding the Dreadlord's Sanctum. Watch for
a ghostly radiance that will indicate the presence of a key.'
Journal Entry 72
Map to Grimdra's Hoard
┌─┬─┬───┬─┬─┬───┬───┬─┬───┬─────┬─
│ * * * * * * │ * * * <- From Well
├─┤ └───┴─┴─┤ │ │ │ ┌─┴─────┼─
* │ │ │ │ │ │ │
├─┼*──┐ ┌───┼───┼*──┼*┘ │ ┌───┐ │ * - Door
│!│ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ * │
├*┘ │ │ │ │ │ ┌*┤ │ ┌─┘ │ ! - Hoard
│ │ * │ │ │ │ * │ │ │
│ │ └───┴*──┼*──┤ │ │ │ └─┐ │
│ │ │ │ │ │ │ * │
│ │ ┌*┬*┬*┐ │ │ │ │ └───┘ │
│ │ │ │ │ │ │ * │ │ │
└─────┴─┴─┴─┴─┴─┴───┴─┴─┴───────┘