Emerald Knight Round Table meetings: Difference between revisions

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Past: Mid-Year Field Status Report, Shard Meeting Tower, Green Room, Arhat 29-30, 449 (June 26, 2024, 8 pm est.)
Past: Mid-Year Field Status Report, Shard Meeting Tower, Green Room, Arhat 29-30, 449 (June 26, 2024, 8 pm est.)
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Upcoming: 7th Annual Round Table Meeting, Shard Meeting Tower, Green Room, Akroeg 25-26, 450 (August 14, 2024, 8 pm est).
Past: 7th Annual Round Table Meeting, Shard Meeting Tower, Green Room, Akroeg 24, 450 (August 14, 2024, 8 pm est).
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Upcoming: Mid-Year Field Status Report, Brent's Bar, Old Mine. Moliko 9-10, 450 (October 9, 2024, 8 pm est.)
Upcoming: Mid-Year Field Status Report, Brent's Bar, Old Mine. Moliko 9-10, 450 (October 9, 2024, 8 pm est.)
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Sixth Annual Emerald Knights' Meeting held on the 32nd day 449 years since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer in Shard Great Tower Hall of the Hunt.
Sixth Annual Emerald Knights' Meeting held on the 32nd day 449 years since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer in Shard Great Tower, Hall of the Hunt.


Those in attendance included; Primal Lady Zalinyar, Stalwart Seydin, Hunter Hanryu, Ryeka, Philomath Miskton, Glade Seeker Rest, Wizard Efrate, Druid Zyros, Squire Cheyee, Truthseeker Elurora, Light of the World Gwenddolyn, Emerald Knight Vaddon
Those in attendance included; Primal Lady Zalinyar, Stalwart Seydin, Hunter Hanryu, Ryeka, Philomath Miskton, Glade Seeker Rest, Wizard Efrate, Druid Zyros, Squire Cheyee, Truthseeker Elurora, Light of the World Gwenddolyn, Emerald Knight Vaddon
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| <strong>Meeting on the 450th year, 24th day since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer</strong> &nbsp;
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Seventh Annual Emerald Knights' Meeting held on the 24th day, 450 years since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer in the Shard Great Tower, Hall of the Hunt.

Those in attendance included; Hanryu, Ryeka, Sarugar, Buzan, Eskila, Gwenddolyn.

With no scribe in attendance, my messily scribbled meeting minutes, while I was speaking, were as follows;

You say, "I am officially calling this Seventh Annual Round Table Meeting to order. I ask for no interruptons so that we can get through the formal meeting quickly."

You say, "Interruptions during the official meeting by non-Emerald Knights will cause me to have to expel anyone causing the disruption, which I will not hesitate to do."

You say, "Furthermore, Necromancers are not allowed to attend any official meeting of the Emerald Knights without acceptions, as recorded during a prior Round Table vote."

You say, "Following my historical presentation will be my report about the status of foraging in the Lost Grounds, which I presented at the most recent Midyear Field Report."

You say, "Then our Scribe, Emerald Knight Vaddon, will give his report, followed by any other Emerald Knight who has a report."

You say, "Since he is not here we will skip him."

You say, "The Annual Round Table Meetings are the proper forum to bring to the table any ideas, issues and motions that need voting on during the Emerald Knight reports."

You say, "There was an issue that was brought to my attention by an Emerald Knight since the last Annual Round Table Meeting that I will address during the reports, given that knight is present to make a motion on the floor for discussion and bring the issue to the table for a vote."

You say, "But that knight is not here."

You say, "When the official Emerald Knight business has concluded, I will open the floor for discussion with everyone once the Emerald Knights have completed presenting reports and voting."

You say, "For the historical presentation, I will repeat my summary of the history portion I presented at the last Midyear Field Report, so it will be documented into the meeting notes for future reference."

You say, "Let's start with..."

You say, "Corik the Black Cloud constructed the city of Shard with with Queen Morganae. He also built a stone wall in 180 BL to keep back the Dark Hand, where us Emerald Knights still stand watch today."

You say, "Following his exile from Ilithi, Corik assisted Stone Clan in dealing with The Biter."

You say, "Ferdahl Alec the Phoenix was the son of the Ferdahl Corik who preceeded him. He ruled the Elotheans beginning in 50 BL."

You say, "He reunited the Elothean houses during the time of the Dragon Priest Empire and eventually kicked the Dragon Priests out of Ilithi, sending the DP hierarchy into chaos."

You say, "During his reign, he rebuilt Shard, he established the Gondola with the help of Queen Morganae and eventually expelled the Dragon Priests out of Ilithi."

You say, "I must of course, also mention that he created the Emerald Knights, after announcing a competition of which was won by Ptera, and who became their first leader."

You say, "There has been mention that Ptera and Alec were lovers and that Ptera's son Seome is Alec's son, making Seome a half brother to Kukalakai, and the grandson of Corik the Black Cloud."

You say, "Seome disappeared after he went into the Dark Hand looking for his mother Ptera, who fled there after being stripped of her Commandership."

You say, "Seome and Ptera are some of the many who have gone missing there. Most recently, Sir Beren, and also Paladin Researcher Oane."

You say, "Oane went missing somewhere near the west gate of Shard while he was heading for Corik's Wall to find Sir Beren, after discovering Sir Drelden's journal among Sir Beren's belongings."

You say, "Getting back to the history, after Ferdahl Alec died, the Three declared a twenty-five year period of mourning."

You say, "He was succeeded by his daughter Kukalakai, known as the Black-Eyes, making her the grand daughter of Corik the Black Cloud, who was Alec's father. Sadly, she was slain by the Outcasts under orders from King Raenilar during the Outcast War."

You say, "The Dragon Priests of Dzree's sect were responsible for the creation of many tainted creatures, such as the Adan'f, which made up a a sizeable portion of their military power, and led by Blood General Vigther."

You say, "The Dragon Priest Empire also established the Dark Hand, a corrupted area of land that became a breeding ground for such many necromantic and sorcerous experiments performed on S'Kra Mur and Gor'Togs, with the intention of purifying them. Which leads many to believe the Adan'f were created from them."

You sigh deeply.

You say, "Though Dzree was ultimately defeated, the Dragon Priest Empire rose again briefly under Hhrsaraa, who claimed to be a daughter of Dzree and gave herself the title Dragon Priest Empress. The Empire fell to disorganized chaos once again when Hhrsaraa was killed."

You say, "The primary belief held by the Sect of Dzree was that only living sacrifices would honor and appease the World Dragon, and that the purpose of the sacrifices were to wake the Dragon, bring about the end of the world, so those that woke the Dragon would live and inherit the land."

You say, "Dzree's sect began forming shortly before she assassinated her former mentor, Sh'kial in 205 BL. However, she took the harmless fanatical beliefs of Sh'kial and twisted them down a darker path of Human and Elven sacrifice."

You say, "The first Dragon Priest War started about 203 BL. After proclaiming herself High Priestess, her sect became known as the Dragon Priest Empire by conquering most of the Five Provinces. She reigned from approximately 193 BL until year 1 BL until her death."

You say, "Her Empire completely destroyed the Bard's guild and decimated nearly all of the Ru'atin Peri'el. Dzree's hatred of Bards was caused by her failure to pass the entry examination for the Ru'atin during her youth."

You say, "The Ru'atin Peri'el was a Sisterhood formed by High Priest of Peri'el Maligen Shanati in Reshalia, after the first Reshalian King, Sarkhhl Smoneh, ordered their creation becauser he was told by a High Priest of Hav'roth that the earthquakes plaguing Reshalia were due to the World Dragon."

You say, "Comprised of mostly female S'Kra Mur Clerics and Bards, and usually referred to as the Sisters, Daughters or Singers of Peri'el. The group's purpose is to aid Peri'el with her eternal task of keeping the World Dragon asleep."

You say, "In year 0, Neithrel vanishes and open warfare among DP factions in Qi'Reshalia begins."

You say, "The last DP faction was conquered in 22 AV and merchant families formed the new ruling council of Qi'Reshalia."

You say, "During his reign, Alec rebuilt Shard and established the Gondola in 20 AV, with the help of Queen Morganae of the Mountain Elves."

You say, "After Shard was cut off from the world in 250 AV, Morganae's daughter was murdered in a marriage dispute."

You say, "In 256 AV, the Mage of Storms returned to Shard and was killed. His stormcloud remains over Dertalriosh Endaertheal'a, now known as Stormwill Tower."

You say, "Moving on to history of the Ocular. The Endian Nation was formed by the Luethra in the First Age."

You say, "It spanned the Albarian continent, was ruled by Azhjam, and was seated at Albabriddlaen. These years were also a formative period for the Luethran justice system."

You say, "During the Luethran Second Age, the Endian Nation turned outward, allying with the Elves, and later the Gnomes."

You say, "These close ties with their northen neighbors would lead to intermittent hostilities with the Adamantia, who blockaded the northern trade routes into Kermoria."

You say, "With northern trade declining, the Luethrans turned their attentions south to the newly arrived gnomes, including a lasting treaty with the Cip'uja tribe."

You say, "It was during this time, the Luethrans also turned to the seas, settling Pi'Qanah, the Irasushen Islands, and M'Riss. These colonies enabled a restoration of trade with the Elves, unhindered by Dwarven influence."

You say, "The Third Age marked the Golden Age of the Endian Nation and the Luethran people. Architecture, Arts, Engineering and Magic, flourished during this time. By then, the Endian Nation covered nearly all of Albaria."

You say, "Two major new cities were founded during the early years of the Third Age: New Albabriddlaen, and Avaev, the Waterfall City was near Shaerek lands."

You say, "Contact and later treaties were formed with the Nirejis, who dwelt in the far western Albarian forests. Signing the Nireji-Endian Treaty, the Luethrans withdrew from a portion of the western Albarian forests."

You say, "Avaev grew in significance during this period, serving as a crossroads for trade and commerce between the Gnomes in the south, the Nirejis in the west, the Shaerek in the north, and the Luethrans in the east. A school was founded in Avaev by Siyasartu Jelonci, increasing the city's stature as students flocked to the city to learn from him."

You say, "Avaev and New Albabriddlaen were linked by a newly constructed aqueduct, supplying both with fresh water from the mountains."

You say, "The Celestial Temple is constructed and became a center of learning in the Endian Nation."

You say, "During this time, Luethran mages developed and refined teleportation techniques, while the gnome Giblor developed the telescope."

You say, "A sickness killed Azhjam Rasman, signaling the end of the Golden Age. Word of battle between two Gorbesh tribes, the Ilat and the Lakixeq, reached the Endian Nation."

You say, "The Rasman Plague swept through the Endian Nation, devastating the Luethran population. Aid was sought from both the Dwarves and the Elves in Kermoria, and the island colonies, except for M'Riss, collapsed. Around this time, the Ocular first appeared in Albaria's southwestern reaches."

You say, "Nuar Deiva founded the Rasman Sect, venerating death, and around this time the Rasman Plague died down. This lead the Rasman Sect to attempt taking power from the Azhjam. The plague returned, and ultimately the Rasman Sect gained control over the Endian Nation."

You say, "Shortly thereafter, construction of the City of the Dead began, along with the closing off of the Luethran people. Contact with Kermoria slowed, and the Bosueq, Opirks, and Cip'uja Gnomes were placed under restriction. This policy eventually lead to the borders closing, and the remaining colony on M'Riss was abandoned."

You say, "A royalist movement started in New Albabriddlaen, and as it gained power, the Rasman Sect was challenged in battle. This was the first time since the Second Age when Luethran had killed Luethran, and it eventually erupted into the Luethra Civil War. The Cip'uja sided with the Royalists."

You say, "In the southwest, the Ocular began gathering their strength, while Avaev was nearly destroyed by fighting between the Luethrans. However, Nirejian, Gnomic, and Shaerekian fighters repelled the Luethrans. During this period, the Royalists gained the upper hand against the Rasman Sect."

You say, "The Sruhos va Tlo'oe gnomes came under Ocular attack and were eventually slaughtered."

You say, "As the Rasman Sect was forced back into the City of the Dead, the new Azhjam was assassinated, and his son took his place. Eventually the Sect was sealed within the city and the Royalists regained control over the mostly destroyed Endian Nation."

You say, "It was during this time that Xin'Alaudas is born to one of the Gorbesh tribes."

You say, "A joint offensive by the Ilat and Beuven tribes proceeded to route the Lakixeq."

You say, "At the age of two, he was set adrift in the Lakiidas Sea."

You say, "Several years later, he returned to Albaria in a massive ship, and was proclaimed a hero and fulfiller of prophecies by Gorbesh prophets. The Lakixeq tribe was taken over by Xin'Alaudas, and the Beuven and Ilat followed shortly there after."

You say, "Nearly all the Gorbesh came under Xin'Alaudas's rule in this period, and construction began in the central-eastern Albarian forests."

You say, "At the city of Eimitek, the Gorbesh met with the Iyqaromos gnomes, and forged a treaty. The gnomes integrated with the Gorbesh and their lands were unified."

You say, "A period of Gorbesh expansion began, resulting in clashes with the Luethrans and eventually the Luethra-Gorbesh War erupted."

You say, "The culminating battle happened near New Albbabridlaen, and the Azhjam was slain by Xin'Alaudas when attempting to flee the field. The city was captured, and in 1385 BL, the last of the Endian Nation fell to the Gorbesh."

You say, "The City of the Dead was established by the Rasman Sect as their new capital, replacing the older city of New Albabriddlaen. During the Luethra Civil War, the city was sealed when the Endian Royalists won the war."

You say, "In 1368 BL, during the early Gorbesh Imperial Age, Gorbesh settlers rediscovered the city and renamed it Ixaem. Contact was lost a year later, and further explorers discovered that the city was empty."

You say, "Repeated attempts to reclaim the city were made over the next millennium, however each attempt failed under mysterious circumstances. The last known attempt was made in 395 BL by Admiral Xireshi."

You say, "It's possible that after the Shraek, who were flying lizards that could cover longer distances than ground traveling gnomes, discovered the ruins of High Hold, which they could see from the sky above the mist."

You say, "So now, let's talk about the mist in the Lost Grounds, which is adjacent to Albaria."

You say, "After much investigations into sightings within the lost grounds, and determining the cause of the mist, I have concluded that Pallid Ocular Mistweavers are creating the mist with the purpose of concealing High Hold."

You say, "There are two other significant discoveries I made during my investigation into the history of the area, going back to the early Imperial Age, with indepth studies into the Gorbesh Imperial Age."

You say, "I will first go over some history so that it will shed light as to why I came to my conclusions."

You say, "The Hiimarhand Shel means the Mountains that Divide the World in Half, which are in the southernmost regions of Ilithi and separate Albaria from Kermoria. Imagine that half the world lies beyond High Hold and within Albaria."

You say, "Amongst them are the ruins of the Dwarven kingdom of Adamantia. The Lost Grounds sit along the edge of the ruins of the southernmost city there, which is High Hold."

You say, "Morganae's Arm was built in to hold back the creatures created by the Dragon Priests during the perpetual battles for control over High Hold."

You say, "I found it somewhat odd that I have been unable to find any historical mention of conflict between the Dragon Priests and the Ocular, even though they have both occupied the area just beyond the Lost Grounds."

You ask, "Were the Ocular the reason that the DP were able to create such monstrousities, with the help of the Ocular as silent allies?"

You ask, "So where did the Ocular come from?"

You say, "Sieben is a god worshipped by the Gorbesh and the Kaldar. He is the Master of the Domain of Mist, and has an appearance as a hardened young man obscured by a great fog."

You say, "He is known as a shapeshifter so masterful that he fools the other gods and creates chaos among the mortals."

You say, "Sieben also created the Ocular and the Sruhos va Tlo'oe burned and died by his hand."
You say, "Following the near destruction of the Opirks by the Ocular, the Opirks were decreed as independent members of the Gorbesh Empire in 1348 BL."

You say, "When the Opirks came under attack by the Ocular a year later, the Gorbesh successfully defeated the Ocular. No other account in history of an Ocular defeat has ever been recorded."

You say, "Back in 1353 BV, General Iseum reported the existance of the Ocular to the Southwest, a blasted plain smothered in perpetual fog, much like how the Lost Grounds appear today."

You say, "This fog has seeped into the Lost Grounds as a mysterious mist, which I am convinced is hiding the view of the High Hold nearby."

You say, "I mentioned at our last meeting that I had sensed a Pallid Ocular Mistweaver within the Lost Grounds, which confirmed the source of the mist."

You say, "It should be noted that in 1335 BL, Gnomic inventors invented lift technology. The first lift is completed in 1333 BL at the Tiebesh Fortress in the Stormcrest Mountains."

You say, "Emperor Lakiumos devises a formal name for The Alaudian Empire. He commissions the construction of a great Colossus statue of the Builder to overlooking the Lakiidas Sea."

You say, "In 1325 BL, soldiers from Tiebesh Fort discover a half-ruined city near a waterfall at the base of the northwestern White Mountains."

You say, "High Priest Duevain of Misiumos and governor of the North is sent to investigate. Duevain reports the existence of a race of winged beings called the Shaerek and Emperor Lakiumos and the High Priests declare the beings "Winged Devils."
You say, "High Priest Duevain is given the task of conquering them and expanding the Empire. In 1320 BL, Duevain's forces advance on Il'in Sius, the city of the Shaerek, but Duevain's forces are battered away by phenomenal white winds that strike at them from the mountain heights and the High Priest is killed."

You say, "During this time, the Waterfall City of Avaev is built at the Great Falls to improve trade with the Shaerek. Avaev becomes a center of the continent, populated by Luethra, Shaerek, and Gnomes."

You say, "The Shaerek are a race of avian humanoids living in the high elevation of the frozen mountains of northwestern Albaria. They worship a singular bird God and are led by their High Priest."

You say, "The smoke-winged creatures in a recent vision made me think about the Shaerek. They use the White Wind, a freezing wind that burns, which could be described as crystal fire similar to a recent vision."

You say, "The city became even more cosmopolitan when Siyasartu Jelonci, of the Nireji, moved to the city and established a building school. When aqueducts reached the city from New Albabriddlaen, Avaev increased in prosperity."

You say, "However, during the Luethra Civil War, the city was nearly destroyed in the fighting, despite the attempts of the combined Nireji-Gnomic-Shaerekian defenses."

You say, "The last mention of the city was in the Gorbesh Imperial Records, as the site of a major Ocular defeat in 763 BL."

You say, "Il'in Suis is the city of the Shaerek. Located in the heights of the mountains in northwestern Albaria, and the Shaerek believe that it is protected by the White Wind. The city was reported fallen in 407 BL, when the Northern Gorbesh Army reached the city under the command of General Namiven."

You say, "Aniek is a god worshipped by the Gorbesh and the Kaldar. Possessing the Domain of Storm, Aniek is the cruel Goddess of Destruction, vindictive and spiteful."

You say, "She ruins for the sake of ruination. She disturbs the land with her tornadoes and blizzards and lightnings. Aniek tried desperately to kill the young Xin'Alaudas, afloat in the sea, and her anger assailed Albaria for a month."

You say, "She battled against the White Wind of the Shaerek for eighteen days to allow the Empire to reach Il'in Sius. The two ended the match in a draw, neither able to secure a victory. Aniek and Sieben are hateful enemies and either would destroy the other."

You say, "An example of modern day ocular appearances include Aojunni Cam-anfa, a Merelew who was attacked at the Feast of Eluned by a goblin assassin, revealing that she was an Ocular."

You say, "Dantia recently mentioned how Keishalae sold her soul to the Hunger in exchange for occasuinally bringing other souls to feed the Hunger."

You say, "Maelshyve and Lyras were likely in service to the Hunger, bringing other souls to be consumed."

You say, "Years ago, I gave the theory that Syal was bonded to the Hunger to prevent it from consuming the World."

You say, "After all these centuries, it must have many faces, a face for everyone it has consumed. Which over time would become such a horrifying monstrousity, and its appetite would have become so large that it could no longer be appeased or contained."

You say, "A depiction of the Hunger being attacked by paladins and rangers was seen on a large canvas mural entitled "Shadow Clan" from Terald's Tent at the Theren Fest where many artifacts were stolen that originated from Lord Sorrow's birthplace."

You say, "The mural showed five rugged plate-clad Humans that surround and battle an enormous scaled twelve-legged green monster by working in unison to confuse it."

You say, "The beast has several arrows imbedded in its bulging red eyes, the result of three more Humans that stand further away, aiming their longbows carefully around their comrades. The creature is losing strength and vitality, as indicated by its collapsed hind legs, while the Humans have nary a fresh scratch on them."

You say, "One possible theory is that the Hunger exists adjacent to the Lost Grounds in High Hold, which explains the disappearance of so many paladins, and the actual purpose the wall was built to keep out."

You say, "During our Sixth Annual Round Table meeting, I gave historical presentation about "A Tale of High Hold", as told by the Dwarven Bard Hrakisi Viikelen, which I will close with a few remarks about before giving my field report."

You say, "High Hold remained one of the few places to withstand the brutal attacks of the Dragon Priests."
.
You say, "Then the Dragon Priests devised a new method of siege. The Dark Hand was named for the corruption and plague they instilled into the land, turning the earth vile and evil while conducting their foulest experiments there."

You say, "The once beautiful lands of Adamantia and Southern Ilithi had been turned putrid, and High Hold was right at the center of it all. They lasted as long as they could, fighting the rotting lands around them valiantly. But the people were finally besieged in such a way that they knew would be their end."

You say, "The once pristine waters had turned to noxious poisons. Where game was once plentiful, now there were only monsters, whose meats would make a man ill."

You say, "Healing herbs were transformed into deadly weeds that would attempt to kill a man that approached them. Eating them would fill the body with disease and acids."

You say, "After several decades, the fortress of High Hold was destroyed by the Dark Hand. It is a wretched, ghostly place now, truly a part of the loathsome lands that consumed it."

You say, "Then he ends with this mysterious comment, "Those who enter the Dark Hand would do well to stay clear of the once mighty fortress."

You say, "But if High Hold was truly destroyed, then why would it need to be avoided? It makes me wonder if they knew there was something there that needed to be avoided, and makes me more determined to find what lies beyond the old bailey. Most likely a rockface with a lift obscured by the mist."

You say, "Moving on to my investigation of the ruins in the Lost Grounds, and spending significant time scouting the area taking extensive notes, and the continued study of some intriguing items that required further research."

You say, "One of them are ruins of a bailey, which seems quite out of place there. A bailey is an entry building that leads into a castle."
You say, "Morganae's Arm was not a castle. It was a fortified wall, used as a defense to keep the tainted creatures from entering into Ilithi."

You say, "During that time, Morganae's Arm would have been built just outside of High Hold, because that is where all of the fighting took place, since they were fighting over control of High Hold."

You say, "So that bailey is likely an entryway that leads to the renown High Hold lifts."

You say, "The bailey is viewable in areas to the west and south, four to be exact. Two are on the west side, just north and west of the dovecote. One is in the southwest corner and the other is directly east from there. I am convinced this bailey extended southwesterly and led to High Hold."

You say, "Once inside the old bailey, a series of lifts would likely be found and used to climb the rock face of the Hiimarhand Shel, rising to High Hold above. The dense fog that obscures the Lost Grounds conceals the view of this once spectacular fortress."

You say, "I suggest that other Emerald Knights take the time to look at these remnants of that great battle, to see if anyone can discover something that I've missed."

You say, "Also, remember if you bring non-mustered in friends beyond the wall, do not leave them behind or separate them from your group."

You say, "Unless you are an Emerald Knight, you may not understand the magnitude of what could happen in Blackthorn Canyon, given an imminent attack on Southern Ilithi, either from the Ocular in Albaria or any of the various factions of the Dragon Priests."

You say, "The historical reason documented as the reason why Morganae's Arm was built was to keep out the monstrousities created by the Dragon Priests, but I am convinced there were even greater reasons, such as the Ocular and the whatever has been occupying High Hold."

You say, "These details are what every Emerald Knight learns when conversing with various Emerald Knights along their quest. It is the final job of the Last to bring enough of the mountain down to seal off the Lost Grounds, if the wall is breached, to prevent the taint from progressing further into Ilithi."

You say, "In regards to how all of this applies to the current issue with the missing five, and determining who the enemy of our enemy is, our enemy is clearly the Hunger. That makes Paladins the Hunger's enemy, or possibly Syal who bonded to the Hunger to hold it back from destroying our plane of abiding. Stopping the Hunger from draining the souls and energy from us all until we no longer exist is the solution."

You say, "And that is the end of my report and historical accounts. My interpretation of any of it may or may not be correct, but if even one part of it is, it could be devestating to all of us."

You say, "I will now move on to repeat my field report about what is foreageable in the Lost Grounds since so many missed the results at the last Midyear Field Report Meeting."

You say, "That was the assignment I gave to the Emerald Knights to present the findings regarding the flora and fauna within the Lost Grounds, that everyone failed to do except for me."

You say, "It appears that the map provided to me many years ago by Kythryn is entirely accurate, and most fauna and flora are seasonably forageable during the warmer months."

You say, "Before we call issues to be discussed and voted on to the floor by Emerald Knights, I will first turn the floor over to our Scribe, Emerald Knight Vaddon to give his report."

You say, "He will then open the floor for all other Emerald Knights, to bring forth their reports, issues, discussions, and motions."

You say, "He is not here, so I will move on to all other Emerald Knights."

You ask, "Do you have any reports or issues to bring to discuss and vote?"

You ask, "Hanryu?"

Hanryu slowly says, "I had something but now I've lost the thought..."

Hanryu ponders.

You say, "I have one to bring up, but you can go first."

Hanryu says, "Oh, that's right."

Hanryu says, "I attended the beseeching ritual yesterday."

You say, "I am sure it was interesting."

Hanryu says, "We were able to beseech a vision of elanthia's deep history. Many scars."

You say, "Interesting."

Hanryu sadly says, "I don't find this a surpirze to anyone that's spent time in the Hand."

You nod at Hanryu, in complete agreement with his views.

Hanryu says, "The missing were near but displaced. Same story other's have heard and experienced in that regard. I am worried for them."

You ask, "Was the reason it is scarred revealed?"

Hanryu nods.

You ask, "What was it?"

Hanryu says, "Boils down to planar incursions."

You ask, "Like we are experiencing now?"

Hanryu says, "By powerful entitites. Yes, well, probably."

Hanryu shrugs.

You say, "I mentioned earlier about warring gods, it is possible now."

Hanryu says, "Anytime something like the hunger or maelshaeve bashes a bit of elanthia, there's a part that never seems to heal."

You nod at Hanryu, in complete agreement with his views.

You say, "Especially if one feeds the other."

Hanryu says, "Yes or warring gods. I imagine the hatching of the world dragon was another of those scars."

You say, "Indeed I agree."

You ask, "Any ideas on what we can do?"

You say, "We can wait until the floor is opened for that."

Hanryu says, "I know we've got duties beyond the wall, but since we've seen so little change there, I suggest we focus most of our efforts this side of the gate."

You nod to Hanryu.

You say, "On that note, I want to put a motion on the floor for a vote."

You say, "I make a motion that the Midyear reports return to Brent's Bar and keep the round tables here. As long as we keep necros out."

You ask, "Do I have a second?"

Buzan says, "Seconded."

You say, "It will keep us closer to the wall."

Hanryu says, "Seems fine to me. I think we can alternate between both locations."

Hanryu nods.

You ask, "Any opposition?"

(Crickets)

You ask, "Who votes aye?"

Hanryu raises his hand.

You raise your hand.

Buzan raises his hand.

You say, "It passes."

You say, "Now if nobody else has any official business."

You say, "I open the floor for discussion."

You say, "I suspect that either gods are warring or the Hunger is indeed too powerful now to control."

You ask, "Does anyone have anything to share or opinions?"

Hanryu says, "Oh that's the other thing. Liraxes manifested again. It's cooking up a ... device. And want's parts. Before you go donating, the Traders are setting up a negotiation with the crystal-math thing."

You nod.

Ryeka blinks.

Buzan peers quizzically at Hanryu.

You say, "I will leave Liraxes to my sister the Trader. She can negotiate."

Hanryu says, "It claims to want balance, which I'm all for, but what version of "balance" an extraplanar being thinks is good, is still up for debate."

You say, "I agree. Everyone's balance varies."

You say, "I machine deciding balance can be...."

You say, "A problem for the living."

Hanryu says, "It did not seem hostile, and it did claim to want to maintain the livability of the plane of abiding. So it's at least talking the right equations."

You say, "But keep in mind, if we build it, it may be used against us."

You say, "And we are led to believe it is to return the five."

You say, "When instead it will do the opposite."

Hanryu says, "Yes, I think we need more resaerch. Hence the suggestion we leave the wall to the regular faces and focus our attention on wild magic till the next meeting./."

You nod at Hanryu, in complete agreement with his views.

You say, "I will check the wall for infrequent patrols as I always do."

Hanryu nods.

You say, "If the moons are in my favor, I can do it quickly."

You ask, "Does anyone else have any discussion?"

Ryeka says, "I do have half an idea- but I'm not sure that's enough to present."
Ryeka ponders.

You say, "Better to say it than not."

Buzan leans forward.

You say, "Half an idea is better than none."

Ryeka says, "Well you know us clerics have some ability to seek the spirits of the fallen. The trouble is that the bodies have to be where we can see it."

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

You say, "I see."

You say, "I did have an idea about clerics though."

Ryeka says, "It would take someone far stronger than me to make it work."

Ryeka nods to you.

Ryeka asks, "Aye?"

You say, "Taramaine should be consulted about many questions."

Ryeka nods in agreement.

You say, "If the enemy of the Hunger is the paladins, clerics and the gods."

You say, "All should come together with the rangers and empaths who have to do with the living here."

Ryeka nods.

You say, "For a solution."

You say, "But I do not know her, nor am I a cleric so that is a cleric thing to plan."

You say, "I mentioned that to Nawain too."

You say, "About Taramaine."

Ryeka nods.

You ask, "Perhaps you both could do that?"

Ryeka nods in agreement.

Hanryu says, "My gut tells me we've not had enough clerics trying to find solutions to this wild magic stuff. A few to many sorcerers and heretics. I get exploring any path to get back the missing, but that can be dangerous."

Ryeka says, "I can."

You say, "There is a reason why holy magic users were not taken."

You say, "Perhaps whomever took them feared the holy."

Ryeka says, "I was when the five were. But I was not with the five."

Ryeka ponders.

You say, "They clearly chose who to keep."

Ryeka nods in agreement.

You say, "It was not someone holy."

Ryeka ponders.

You say, "So that may be a solution."

You say, "They must be in a pocket."

You say, "In another dimension."

You say, "We can hear but not see."

You say, "Time must have shifted slightly."

Ryeka says, "Saragos watched for his lady as long as he could- until he was cut off. I do worry about him."

Hanryu nods in agreement.

Hanryu sadly says, "He's this close to doing something he'll eventually regret."

Hanryu says, "I get it, but..."

Ryeka nods.

You say, "One other idea I thought was that if the Heralds took them for something someone among them did."

You say, "It is like if one person casts something, and someone else is caught in the vortex."

Ryeka ponders.

You say, "That seems to be what happened, it sucked them into another dimension."

You say, "But then it could actually have been a decision made by the Guardians."

Hanryu says, "It's possible. I was sucked into the void prision that night with the big group. But I got spit out."

You nod to Hanryu.

Hanryu says, "But there was a LOT of magic being slung around. So who knows what happened."

You say, "You were too pure for them."

You say, "Is my thought."

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Hanryu wryly says, "Or to slow."

You say, "Well if nobody else has any other ideas, this meeting is concluded."

Hanryu asks, "Welp. I'm getting itchy in town. Next time at the bar right?"

Hanryu says, "Perfect timing."

You say, "Yes."

Hanryu grins at you.

Hanryu raises his hand in a quick salute.

Buzan stands up.

Hanryu says, "Safe paths everyone."

You say, "Thanks all for coming."

Hunter Hanryu went through a deep green door.

Ryeka says, "Take care! I'm going to see if Mother Sothavi has any ideas too."

~~Submitted by my now very sore hand, Emerald Knight Gwenddolyn.

|}

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Latest revision as of 13:16, 15 August 2024

Past: 1st Annual Round Table Meeting was Akroeg 17, 444 (Dec. 21, 2022, 8 pm est).
Past: Mid-Year Field Status Report Updates @ Corik's Wall, Brent's Bar, Moliko 1, 444 (Feb. 15, 2023, 8 pm est.)
Past: 2nd Annual Round Table Meeting, Shard Meeting Tower, Green room, Akroeg 37, 445 (April 5, 2023, 8 pm est).
Past: Mid-Year Field Status Report & Field Event, Brent's Bar, Arhat 34, 445 (May 24, 2023, 8 pm est.)
Past: 3rd Annual Round Table Meeting, Shard Meeting Tower, Green room, Akroeg 28, 446 (July 12, 2023, 8 pm est).
Past: Mid-Year Field Status Report, Brent's Bar, Arhat 25, 446 (August 30, 2023, 8 pm est.)
Past: 4th Annual Round Table Meeting, Brent's Bar, Akroeg 20, 447 (October 18, 2023, 8 pm est).
Past: Mid-Year Field Status Report, Brent's Bar, Arhat 17, 447 (December 6, 2023, 8 pm est.)
Past: 5th Annual Round Table Meeting, Brent's Bar, Akroeg 14, 448 (January 24, 2024, 8 pm est).
Past: Mid-Year Field Status Report & Vela'thor Experiment, Shard Mtg Tower, Green Rm & moongate to Lost Grounds, Arhat 10, 448 (March 13, 2024, 8 pm est.)
Past: 6th Annual Round Table Meeting, Shard Meeting Tower, Green Room, Akroeg 32, 449 (May 8, 2024, 8 pm est).
Past: Mid-Year Field Status Report, Shard Meeting Tower, Green Room, Arhat 29-30, 449 (June 26, 2024, 8 pm est.)
Past: 7th Annual Round Table Meeting, Shard Meeting Tower, Green Room, Akroeg 24, 450 (August 14, 2024, 8 pm est).
Upcoming: Mid-Year Field Status Report, Brent's Bar, Old Mine. Moliko 9-10, 450 (October 9, 2024, 8 pm est.)
Upcoming: 8th Annual Round Table Meeting, Shard Meeting Tower, Green Room, Ka'len 33-34, 451 (December 4, 2024, 8 pm est).
Upcoming: Mid-Year Field Status Report, Brent's Bar, Old Mine, Moliko 1-2, 451 (January 15, 2025, 8 pm est)

Description

These are the records of the Emerald Knight Round Table meeting notes as scribed by Emerald Knight Vaddon.

At the 1st annual Round Table meeting, a motion was put on the floor by Emerald Knight Vaddon, after Emerald Knight Gwenddolyn suggested allowing non-mustered in Emerald Knights to attend future meetings, including other guilds besides Ranger or Paladin. Motion passed unanimously. All votes and decisions will only be voted on by Emerald Knights as a rule of order guideline. The floor will open to non-mustered in attendees for further discussion once the official Emerald Knight business has concluded.

It was also noted that before every meeting, an announcement by Emerald Knight Betlind will be made, that anyone attending all future meetings must adhere to strict ettiquette and decorum guidelines, or they will be removed and likely banned from future meetings and events. No abusive disruptive behavior or threats upon any Emerald Knight will be tolerated, and all general meeting rules of order will be followed. The fact that this even had to be brought up means that there was abusive conduct hostile in nature and unacceptable behavior, all because they were not allowed to attend the very first meeting since they were not an Emerald Knight. The vote taken has given them another chance to attend future meetings and events if the above guidelines are adhered to and respected.

At the 5th Annual Round Table Meeting, the vote allowing non-Emerald Knight meeting attendees was ammended from "everyone" to "everyone but Necromancers", and all meetings in the future will be held in the Shard Meeting Tower to enforce this without violence, since these meetings are not the place nor the time for fighting, as they are solely for discussion of official Emerald Knight business.


Annual Round Table Meeting Logs


Meeting on the 444th year, 17th day since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer  

A meeting was called of the Emerald Knights on the 444th year, 17th day since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer. It was snowy evening, and the meeting was held on the deck of 'The Star's Grace' moored at the dock in Crossing. This meeting was held with mustered members of the Emerald Knights to discuss recent visions and reports of evil rising in the Dark Hand. Most important, was identifying a path forward to reinforce the brave Knights and the citizens closest to the Dark Hand. Those in attendance included Light of the World Gwenddolyn, Truthseeker Elurora, Emerald Knight Hanryu, Emerald Knight Betlind, Emerald Knight Gridaksma, and Emerald Knight Vaddon.

As is the history of the Emerald Knights, there was conflict as the path forward was carefully considered. It was impressive the strong emotions shared openly indicating a passion for our fellow Knights and the citizens closest to the evil lurking just beyond the wall. Though some may say, it was disappointing to see such division. It's a testament to the concern of all those involved and ultimately a call to arms to be ready. But it's necessary to share what was discussed and finally agreed upon for all to know that the intent and the goal of the group is indeed common. Due to my own clumsiness, a few parts got smudged by the falling snow. But ultimately, this I feel is an accurate written record to highlight the common ground with the hope it moves us forward together.

As a starting point, I would like to share Ptera's own words when she led the first band of Knights to start their service. 

'Our cause is not fame. Our cause is not wealth. Our cause is to fight this evil that defiles our realms. If you do not swear your blood oath to fight the Hand until the last, you do not ride with the Emerald Knights. Scars will be your medals, and your glory only another dawn. Swear your life and ride with me.'

The following is a log of our meeting.

Gwenddolyn says, "We will begin now."

You say, "Well, I shall share what I've been studying."

You confidently say, "There are conflicting accounts about the history of Emerald Knights. We do know for certain with little discrepancy that Alec was reigning at the time the Emerald Knights was founded. Though the recorded literature has some inconsistencies, the sources available agree that Alec was Fredhal at that time."

You say, "You may or may not recall that Ferdahl Alec the Phoenix reunited the Elothean houses during the time of the Dragon Priest Empire and eventually kicked the Dragon Priests out of Ilithi. During his reign, Alec rebuilt Shard and established the Gondola with the help of Queen Morganae of the Mountain Elves. Alec also claimed to be the son of the previous Ferdahl, Corik."

You say, "It is said he created the Emerald Knights after announcing a competition, which was won by Ptera, who became the first leader of the Knights. In the Human Clans, written by Zelka based on Zuebara Pulan's research of unknown other sources, reported Shadow Clan was formed after the end of the wars that overthrew the Dragon Priest Empire and supported by Alec. Some think that time as 22 AV. However, per what has been passed down from the histories of the Dark Hand, the Shadow Clan establishment is sometimes cited as 20 AV. Regardless, there isn't any written information about that date I've read."

You say, "The primary source of information about the Knights are the Emerald Chronicles. Not assuming all have found this incredible story in the libraries, I shall feebly attempt to share the nuggets from the story. There are six volumes in the Emerald Chronicles. The Chronicles share letters written from the Knight's Second Commander Geoff Graev to his friend Hren Nebban. These books detail the rise of Graev and the Emerald Knights as forces protecting Shard from the dangers of the Dark Hand beyond Corik's Wall."

You say, "From these letters, we learn of First Commander Ptera in 183 AV. Ptera was a fascinating leader for a lot of reasons in Emerald Chronicles. From my reading, it appears that she was Maiden of the Moors, so probably from Darkmist. She responded to Alec's call to join the Knights, won the tournament to become the commander, and was the First. After Graev took over, she decided to stay in Shadow Clan to continue the fight, where she conceived Seome. Some wonder if she became the Matron of Shadow after Graev became commander. The saying on the wall often heard, 'Know your enemy' descends from her leadership. But I'm getting ahead of myself, so let me back up a bit."

You say, "It appears that on 5th day of Moliko the Balance, Year of the Bronze Wyvern, 183, the Ferdahl announced that a new legion, called the Emerald Knights, will be led by Ptera and will occupy the southern defenses. The enlistment rolls were opened on that day and the original Knights confirmed on the 24th day. As times were jubilant, each member was issued verdant silk tabards, helms, and infantrymen were given shields painted with a laurel and lion's claw crest. Reports said the legion was sharp-looking and marched together through the city's streets where green and white banners hung from balconies. At the confirmation celebration, Ptera gave a rousing speech. Highlights of her speech were the words that carry forth to this day."

You ardently say, "She shared with all, her vision which was, 'Our cause is not fame. Our cause is not wealth. Our cause is to fight this evil that defiles our realms. If you do not swear your blood oath to fight the Hand until the last, you do not ride with the Emerald Knights. Scars will be your medals, and your glory only another dawn. Swear your life and ride with me."

You say, "This is the spirit of the Knights. It calls one to humility and not to be bound to glory. As the confirmed left the city's south gate, there were many verdant tabards left at the gates that did not ride south. It was a sieve that separated the wheat from the chaff, anointing those truly dedicated to the cause. It was a dark omen of what was to come."

You say, "The Knights began immediately to repair the defenses of the wall and began their watch. As an aside, you may recall, this is the same wall the locals call 'Morganae's Arm' for the Elf-queen of the mountains. Regardless, the early years were more difficult than expected. The politics between the Ferdahl and the Knights took a turn to create a situation of conflict resulting in lack of support from the Ferdahl himself."

You say, "Ptera's command of operations set the stage for no room ornamentation or ceremony. Every day of a Knight on the wall is assigned. The expectation that everyone attends chancel unless on break."

You say, "On the 23rd day of Uthmor the Giant, Year of the Iron Toad, 186 a change in leadership took place. It appears the Ferdahl tiring of the politics with Ptera appointed a new Second, Odurn. It was at that time, the writer of the Chronicles, Graev was promoted to Captain of the Watch. This renewed conflict between Ptrea and Odurn, with Odurn having lost the initial challenge to lead the Knights."

You say, "The addition of what some may question as the Ferdahl's spy, Odurn did not quell the discontent he had with Ptera's leadership. In 189 AV, the Ferdahl began monthly inspections coordinated by Odurn, much to the frustration of Ptera."

You excitedly say, "In the 9th Skullcleaver, 192, Morganae's Arm fell. It was a great battle and loss for the Knights as the Dark Hand pushed forward to the stone wall shaking the battlements to their foundations. Ptera's desperate calls for reinforcements from the Ferdahl were ignored according to the Chronicles even though they set idly nearby to the north. It was at that time, when all hope was lost and the numbers so depleted that a band of eight rangers raining arrows from the sky pushed back the Hand. The leader of this blessing from Chadatru was Loro. If not for their arrival all would have been lost. It was during the fallout from this battle, that Ptera ordered Odurn's execution inciting the Ferdahl."

You say, "Then on the 23rd day of Skullcleaver Year of the Amber Phoenox, 192, the Ferdahl sent a detachment to occupy the wall and relieve Ptera of her command. By the Ferdahl's order Ptera was exiled south on pain of death. Resulting from Ptera's exile, on the 37th day, Graev was offered on the Command of the Emerald Knights. Then in a following blow to the Knights, the Fredahl cut their pay and provisions sharply. The provisions sent were also discard surplus having been described as chain shirts of unriveted rubbish and will scarcely hold up to a good sneeze. Sometime between 192 and 196 Odurn departed from the Knights and was replaced by Ilksin as Second. Interestingly, this fight and Ptera's banishment was recorded in a song scroll called 'The Ballad of Morganae's Arm', by Rancois Sendaque which can still be purchased."

You say, "Unfortunately, Ilksin was killed in 196 AV and replaced by a less seasoned Second, Farol, who was known for his forthrightness and verve. By 199 AV, the losses suffered in 192 AV were avenged and Corik's Wall built and manned to keep the blight at bay. Though Graev's disillusionment and frustrations mounted with the Ferdahl."

You say, "In the Chronicles, he mentions everything is a challenge for the Knights, as not even the moldiest crust of bread can be obtained without playing politics with the Ferdahl. However, wisely he submitted to the Ferdahl's meddling keeping in mind, that the forging their own road, would use sweat better spent at the fight. His words, not mine. The years between 199 AV and 212 AV tell the story of lean times and ingenious plans to keep the Knights feed no thanks to the Ferdahl."

You say, "It was also dark times for Commander Graev. He took ill and suffered significant sickness reducing his ability to lead the Knights. By 212 AV he had recovered enough to resume daily leadership of the Knights but was dealt another blow when his Second Farol was slain during a push by the Hand. This was a severe disappointment as he had hoped to turn over command to Farol."

You say, "By 215 AV, the Ferdahl confirmed Hindrelgaarde as Commander of the Emerald Knights, relieving Graev. Graev mentions that Hindrelgaarde will make a fine commander due to her faith, swordsmanship, quick wit, and intellect. This concludes the written history of the first days of the Knights chronicled in his letters. It is a fascinating read and worth the time to better understand those early days. Interestingly the First called Hindrelgaarde, is actually Tijit in the Chronicles which she often refers to Graev as uncle."

You reluctantly say, "Now things get tangled for me and have been unsuccessful in my studies. Obviously easy to follow along in a written chronicle. But now it becomes much harder to understand the history of the Knights. So skipping ahead a few years to more recent times, I will pick up with what I have learned."

You say, "With this absence of written records, it becomes necessary to collect oral histories. My studies then focused on collecting information from the people that reside on and near the wall. As I inquired of the various folks, I made a particular effort to interview our fellow members and leaders Fenhalut, Eothim, Grimnur and the Last."

You say, "In addition, to provide a more complete picture, I interviewed the trader Brindle, barkeep Brent, the gem buyer Mhar and the herbalist Doritee. Others approached remained tight lipped offering no additional information to complete the picture."

You say, "Most all individuals interviewed had their own personal thoughts about the Dark Hand. Captain of the Watch Grimnur said it best, when he told me, 'Ain't real words to describe it to you the way it is, aye. You'd never understand it.' The Second Eothim was a bit more specific when he said, 'Necromancies and sorceries. Breaking the rules is what it amounts to. Dzree broke the rules and see what happened? Those wrongs will not be easily righted."

You say, "The locals expressed appreciation for what the Knights are doing keeping the Hand in check. But Doritee cautioned it was a sensitive subject around Shadow Reach, warning, 'Shhhh! The children might be around - no need getting them all terrified with that evil.' Though these conversations didn't really provide an additional history, but context of the sentiment of living so close to the dangers posed by the Dark Hand."

You say, "Of particular interest in my opinion is that of the current leadership of the Emerald Knights. Speaking the locals about Fenhalut didn't really provide much. I interpret that he keeps to his work. The trader Brindle did offer the following, 'Oh he's a good leader, I think. The rank and file seem to like him alright.' Second Eothim, appreciates the stability in my opinion, making particular note as follows, 'Oh, yes Commander Fenhalut is a fine leader with a great appreciation for order.' All others consulted offered general platitudes without any criticism."

You say, "Interesting to contrast the consensus opinion of Fenhalut with that of Second Eothim. Generally, he is considered an able administrator but not much of a fighter. The locals did seem more familiar with him. Presumably he is out away from the wall more frequently doing business among them."

You say, "Finally the most interesting person spoken of with general admiration by all is the Emerald Knight ranger known as The Last. Grimnur provides insight to why he's called the Last by fondly saying, 'That old ranger's a piece of work - best archer in these parts in his prime. And instead of a pension, he's pledged to be our Last."

You say, "A fellow Knight ranger Brent offers, 'He's our Last and a damn fine ranger. Those defenses ever fall, and he'll make a new wall of blasted rock. That ranger's sittin' on enough naptha to bring half the Stormfells down into this canyon."

You humorously say, "Though it appears the Last isn't all business as the herbalist Doritee shares jokingly, 'If he says that I am older than he... Well, he is just playing you for a fool!.' Causing one to wonder what kind of banter those two have had over the years."

You say, "Speaking with the Last, he's a bit odd. He's the most talkative about things near the wall, which may be attributed to a lot of time spent alone. Clearly, he understands his role when asked offers, 'I'm the oldest Ranger around here, so they call me the Last. Yet, that title has another meaning, if all should fail; the walls lost, the valley and settlement overrun, I'm the one who stops the Dark Hand from moving onto Shard. And I will stop them."

You cheekily say, "But the softer side comes out when you ask about the tools he would use. In particular he jokes when asked about naptha, 'KA-BOOM!'."

Elurora quietly says, "Literally, the Last."

You say, "But with him having been serving the longest, he does offer some memories about the son of Ptera, Seome. He recalls him as follows, 'A great Ranger Seome was. His exploits in the bowl are legendary. He wouldn't be tied to the wall like some of us but that is a decision we all must make. For a long time, he and his band were the ones that allowed us to survive. He took the fight to the evil. Perhaps another Seome will come again."

You say, "I could go on but will mention well worth the time speaking with those around the wall. You will gain a better understanding of what a great work the Emerald Knights are doing protecting all from the Dark Hand. And with that, I shall conclude."

Gwenddolyn says, "Well done, he really understood the task."

You ask, "Anyone asleep?"

Hanryu says, "Thanks for the recap and research."

Gwenddolyn says, "What he did was called the emerald knight rumor system, which i will discuss."

Betlind says, "Incredibly well researched and nuanced. No small feat to put that much detail into something in so short a time."

You say, "It was an honor."

Gwenddolyn says, "I want to emphasize a few things that Vaddon mentioned, before continuing on with various updates and discussing recent visions."

Gwenddolyn says, "Morganae's Arm was built by Corik as a forward defensive position south of what is now called Corik's Wall, in the area known as the Lost Grounds. In naming his forward defense after the Elf-Queen of the Mountains, he hoped she would come to the aid of his city's defense."

Gwenddolyn says, "Just like she deceived the Dwarves of the Iron Kingdon, she also deceived the Elotheans by letting the city burn instead of coming to help them."

Gwenddolyn says, "The only difference being that she did not behead Ferdahl Alec like she had done to King Hvalig, when she and her twin brother Lenizhir attacked Garnedhren with poisons, then renamed it Elamiri were she still resides. I will explain the details, since it is relevant in recent visions."

Gwenddolyn says, "Lenizhir possessed a great knowledge of herbs, but not as a healer. He learned to do cruel things with his knowledge, and gathered a rare herb that grew in the Deriel Plains, that had been discovered to make the Dwarves extremely ill during their stay on the plains."

Gwenddolyn says, "Once Lenizhir had acquired a supply, he began cultivating the herb and preparing it in a special way that would enhance its natural effects. When he was certain that his herb was potent enough, he created a liquid from his stock, which he then turned into a gaseous form."

Gwenddolyn says, "The recent vision about the beekeeper may be another way he is able to do this, without him having to touch it, since the bees process the pollen for him. Remember that a previous vision showed people harvesting something themselves, and then falling ill."

Gwenddolyn says, "So Lenizhir and his sister had only to wait until the time was right. One day, without warning, they released the gas into the Dwarven section of Garnedhren. Many of the Dwarven adults became ill, and few children survived. The Dwarves, though weakened by the illness, were able to imprison the Elves."

Gwenddolyn says, "An aged and frail leader Tivhiri strongly opposed the violent path of her twin children, but after Tivhiri died suddenly in her sleep one night, Morganae was chosen the new leader of the Elves."

Gwenddolyn says, "Morganae and Lenizhir led the Elves in an uprising, breaking free from the dungeons and battled the Dwarves. The Dwarves were weakened from Lenizhir's disease and were killed in the fighting. Morganae herself severed the head of old King Hvalig, and took his crown and placed it upon her own head."

Gwenddolyn says, "That was the end of Garnedhren and the Iron Kingdom. Following Morganae's treachery, she renamed Garnedhren to Elamiri, and proclaimed herself Queen of the DragonSpine Mountains."

Gwenddolyn says, "I get the feeling that the man in recent visions teaching others alchemy and poisons is Lenizhir, with intent to use it in future attacks against us within our Provinces."

Gwenddolyn says, "The exiled Dwarves lived a pitiable existence, hiding in the mountains given to them by Kertigen. Until Sidhlot led a group of Dwarves away from Elamiri, which he taught his necromantic magics to these Dwarves, as a way for them to gain revenge on Morganae."

Gwenddolyn says, "The necromancy gradually corrupted the souls of the Dwarves, who were becoming twisted shadows of what they once were. People began calling them Elba Darvagers, or "Dark Dwarves", creatures of the unholy magic that created them."

Gwenddolyn says, "This is an example of the treachery going on beyond Shard in the Dark Hand, and it appears to have grown to become a much bigger problem, which is why we are meeting here tonight."

Gwenddolyn says, "It was brought to my attention that some of the visions appeared to be about Lenizhir once again making poison, and a few other visions that should raise more concerns."

Gwenddolyn says, "They all seem to have a common thread, about the future encroachment beyond Corik's wall, which has lead to this call to muster the Emerald Knights."

Gwenddolyn says, "It was suggested to me that we need to start monitoring activity there through field reports, to be aware of any changes in the landscape, and by discussions using the Emerald Knight rumor system, exactly like Vaddon has done."

Gwenddolyn says, "This will take a group effort with frequent patrols, field reports and periodic Round Table meetings so we can be continually updated among us as a group."

Gwenddolyn says, "The reason I was asked to assist with beginning this process was twofold. First, I was among the first group of Emerald Knights to be mustered in during modern times, and I felt obligated to light the way by providing knowledge and intel to you."

Gwenddolyn says, "Second, because this was exactly what the Therengia Cavalry Outriders did, since they were mostly Rangers who provided recon and intel through patrols."

Gwenddolyn says, "I led the Cavalry for almost 40 years as Commander and Senior Commander, and I am a qualified military planner who will work with others who will Command and lead their own various groups, should that time come."

Betlind quietly asks, "Where is that table, anyway?"

Gwenddolyn says, "The Therengia Cavalry Dragoons were the heavy front line fighters, and the Hussars were the mobile triage unit. My point is that We would need to be prepared with others to help us with triage, should this turn into a full scale invasion that never seems to end down there. Clearly Rangers and Paladins would not be enough to quell it alone."

Elurora quietly says to Betlind, "Maybe we have to make one."

Gwenddolyn says, "My own opinion is that the Original Seven Paladins, and other Paladins who have gone missing, have been down there in this neverending fight."

Gwenddolyn says, "My soulstone visions seem to reflect this and they continue to be more frequent."

Elurora says, "Some of the Seven are dead."

Betlind says to Elurora, "It's gonna be metal then, I'm afraid. Look around ya."

Gwenddolyn says, "So I would rather we plan as a group as the primary informants of that area, and work with other groups beyond the Emerald Knights, since it may become way bigger than we would be able to contain ourselves. This means that mustering in new Emerald Knights is a priority."

Gwenddolyn says, "Historical records show that the wall was repaired and defended by the Emerald Knights after their founding in 183 and fell to the Dark Hand in 192 AV. An account of the early Knights and the Arm can be found in the The Emerald Chronicles by Geoff Graev."

Gwenddolyn says, "After the Dragon Priest wars ended, Ferdahl Alec of Shard was left with the threat that remained of overwhelming taint from their experiments and magics that blighted the lands and the creatures south of the city."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Ferdahl called for volunteers to help wage a mission to contain and beat back the corruption. The Humans who answered this call to arms were mostly rangers and paladins, who are now known as Shadow Clan."

Gwenddolyn says, "This band of men and women fighters took on their mission with such unrelenting dedication that the Emerald Knights still talk about them in modern times."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Humans of Shadow Clan live entirely within the Dark Hand itself, where every moment of their existence is a struggle to fight the creatures within it and most rarely leave until they die."

Gwenddolyn says, "One other point of interest is about the child in several of the recent visions. I believe this is the son of the Matron of Shadow Ptera, named Seome."

Gwenddolyn says, "Grimnur continually mentions that he was just a young boy when he went over the wall and folks thought that he had been long dead when he come back with her."

Gwenddolyn says, "Nodding toward the south and the Dark Hand, Grimnur says, "You see, he was the first child to learn what it is they know."

Gwenddolyn says, "We definitely need to find Seome, because he may be who can help us with crucial information that we need to know."

Gwenddolyn says, "My last topic about recent visions are regarding the ones with six or twelve legged creatures."

Gwenddolyn says, "I came across something that sparked my interest, especially since I was a shareholder of Terald, and which once again is about items that were in Terald's Tent at the original Theren Fest."

Elurora says, "Wouldn't he be dead now if he was Human? They don't live that long."

Gwenddolyn says, "There was a large canvas mural sold by Terald there. A large canvas mural reads: The Shadow Clan."

Gwenddolyn says, "Five rugged plate-clad Humans surround and battle an enormous scaled twelve-legged green monster by working in unison to confuse it."

Gwenddolyn says, "The beast has several arrows imbedded in its bulging red eyes, the result of three more Humans that stand further away, aiming their longbows carefully around their comrades."

Gwenddolyn says, "The creature is losing strength and vitality, as indicated by its collapsed hind legs, while the Humans have nary a fresh scratch on them."

Gwenddolyn says, "Now Vaddon will select a Ranger to provide the next field report at our next meeting, and the ranger will select a second who will assist. At the following meeting, that same Ranger will select a Paladin, and so on, so that it rotates and we can all contribute."

Gwenddolyn says, "I suggest everyone familiarize themselves by going down there, and updates can be provided to Hanyru, Vaddon and myself in between meetings, so we can keep ahead of any immediate issues."

Gwenddolyn says, "Then after Vaddon chooses a Ranger, we will open the floor for discussions regarding the visions, the information we have provided, and your opinions about the concept of beginning patrols and sharing field reports among us."

Gwenddolyn says, "You have 2 to choose from."

Elurora slowly says, "I think you're skipping the step where you ask if they want to take part."

You say, "I would be curious given Hanryu's availability to share any information he has collected over the years to pass along."

Gwenddolyn says, "This is part of the process."

Hanryu says, "I don't mind doing it. Though I must admit nothing at all has changed with the wall in the 50 years since I did the quest."

Hanryu says, "I'll make a few extra rounds before next meeting."

Gwenddolyn says, "Exactly."

You say, "Like things more recent."

Hanryu says, "And make sure to jot down some notes."

Gwenddolyn says, "I already have been informed by a few non-attending Paladins of their interest in participating."

Elurora says, "Other than that dead fellow and the partial note, there really hasn't been much."

You say to Hanryu, "Thank you. Of course I can help as well if needed."

You say to Gwenddolyn, "I think that would be a good idea."

Gwenddolyn says, "I was informed to look for changes in the landscape and things they say."

Betlind asks Elurora, "I'll bet it's a lot easier to inspect that well south of the wall when there aren't twenty people trying to all fit in it at once, huh?"

Elurora says to Betlind, "Or in a well."

Gwenddolyn says, "I also have a recruit who wants to muster into the emerald knights'."

Elurora says to Betlind, "Never been quite that cramped before."

Gwenddolyn says, "Vaddon will be assisting Chyral."

You say, "I could show them the way if needed."

Gwenddolyn says, "I am hoping others will participate that are interested in becoming an Emerald Knight."

Gwenddolyn says, "We clearly need more of us."

Betlind asks, "The more things change?"

Gwenddolyn says, "That is what I was told."

~My notes get fuzzy having a big snowflake smear my ink on this page. But it was discussion about limiting this particular meeting to only mustered Emerald Knights. I will note that several attendees left to make their position well known in the issue. It is my sincerest hope, given the outcome that they reconsider and rejoin us in the future. Turning the page, the record is clearer.

You say, "'I propose the vote mentioned earlier. That those with interest in helping in the Emerald Knights noble cause, with or without formal mustering be allowed to attend in the future."

You say, "All in favor, say aye."

Gwenddolyn says, "Please everyone vote, I must remain impartial."

You say, "All opposed, say nay."

You say, "Aye."

Hanryu says, "Sounds good to me. We could use the help."

Betlind says, "It is with a heavy heart that I vote aye... It saddens me such even had to come to a vote..."

Gwenddolyn says, "So we include non mustered in at the next meeting."

You say, "Hearing no nays....it was agreed."

Gwenddolyn says, "Betlind, would you please at the top of each meeting, state the following."

Betlind says, "I'm gonna put it in my own words, just for fair warnin'."

Gwenddolyn says, "That decisions and votes are limited to the emerald knights and that those not formally mustered in must remain respectful as the rules of all meetings."

Betlind says, "...Should probably wait to hear it first."

Betlind says, "Oh, aye, that's an easy one, sure."

Gwenddolyn says, "Something like that."

Betlind says, "Thought it was gonna be a full piece of parchment to memorize."

Betlind says, "You know how it is going over the minutiae of old Pally scrolls."

~~Another dang smudge..sorry lost that a single comment.

Hanryu asks, "Are we going to keep meeting here? Why not at the Wall?"

Gwenddolyn says, "We will be at the wall, I was just joking."

Betlind says, "I had that question myself, but just figured it was easier to keep others from listenin' in."

You say, "The wall is nice, and Brent would appreciate the business. He's a fellow Knight as well."

Gwenddolyn says, "We had to explain why were are doing this."

Gwenddolyn says, "And it was not my idea, I just agreed to begin the process."

Gwenddolyn says, "And will eagerly pass duties along to others."

Hanryu says, "Sounds like a plan. Well I'll do some scouting in the next few months and see if I notice anything."

Hanryu says, "I gotta run, safe paths all."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thanks hanryu."

Betlind exclaims to Hanryu, "Always great to see ya, sir!"

Betlind exclaims, "Aha!"

You say, "Watch out for Mhar though. Not a lot of folks appreciate his business practices."

~~At his point, this humble scribe accidently followed Hanryu to the river and had to make his way back to the docks from the riverbank. He dives like a dolphin and boy is he quick on his feet.

Betlind says, "There he is."

You say, "He moves quick."

Gwenddolyn says, "I usually get blamed for everything but I was just following instructions."

Gwenddolyn says, "Well done vaddon."

Betlind says to you, "Gwend was just praisin' ya when you were abducted."

You say, "I'm a bit slow sometimes."

Gwenddolyn says, "Betlind I look forward to hearing your reports and also, if you know anyone who wants to muster in."

Betlind says, "Blame it on the armor like the rest of us do."

Betlind says, "I'll go rustle some bushes and check some bars."

Gwenddolyn asks, "What did you think about the visions I discussed?"

You say, "As will I."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Do you think the ones I mentioned were related?"

You say to Gwenddolyn, "My understanding of history is limited. But it does concern me greatly. The poisons especially."

Gwenddolyn says, "The mural made me choke."

Betlind says, "Well, honestly, I haven't left Zoluren in a long while, so am unfamiliar with the visions and this was my first time hearing of the most recent ones."

Gwenddolyn says, "The recent visions are staggering."

Gwenddolyn says, "Clearly about the emerald knights, Lenizhir and the dark hand and shadow clan."

Betlind says, "The big ones usually tend to make their way through word of mouth to me eventually, but I just figured things were all quiet and happy."

You say, "Definetly concerning. But I'm not the wisest in understanding them."

Gwenddolyn says, "Some of them talk about 6 or 12 legged creature they are fighting, just like in the mural."

Betlind says, "Well that's not great."

Betlind says, "I was curious on the numbering there."

Betlind asks, "Twelve legs, five front line fighters, three behind?"

Gwenddolyn says, "My Imperial lecture next week will be about those."

~~Another dang smudge..sorry lost that a single line.

Gwenddolyn says, "I just wonder if that is what they are holding back."

Gwenddolyn says, "Not just one of those, but many."

Betlind says, "Aye, very much so."

Gwenddolyn says, "Notice how the mural explained how they killed it."

Gwenddolyn says, "That is extremely important info."

Gwenddolyn says, "The arrows were important."

Gwenddolyn says, "Rangers fighting from pole, paladins at melee."

You say, "It was how the Dark Hand was pushed back in the Chronicles."

Gwenddolyn says, "One more thing."

You say, "Without the rangers led by Loro, all would have been lost."

~Another dang smudge..sorry lost that a single line.

Betlind says, "Three rangers hovering in the back, much like three moons? Could that be an angle worth pursuing? Don't know what the other numbers would mean though."

Gwenddolyn says, "Interesting concept."

Gwenddolyn says, "12 legs."

Gwenddolyn says, "That means something too."

Betlind asks, "The Thirteen with one excluded for some reason?"

Betlind says, "S'the only real thing I can think of in the moment."

Gwenddolyn says, "Five rugged plate-clad Humans surround and battle an enormous scaled twelve-legged green monster by working in unison to confuse it. The beast has several arrows imbedded in its bulging red eyes, the result of three more Humans that stand further away, aiming their longbows carefully around their comrades. The creature is losing strength and vitality, as indicated by its collapsed hind legs, while the Humans have nary a fresh scratch on them."

Gwenddolyn asks, "5, arent 5 of the 7 still alive?"

Betlind asks, "Is anyone really sure?"

Gwenddolyn says, "I've been researching that, but we know Emille is alive, but she is a dwarf, not human."

Betlind says, "Just listening to the visions gets me tongue tied. Don't know how ya do it, Gwend."

Gwenddolyn says, "So not one of the 5."

You say to Betlind, "Agreed."

Gwenddolyn says, "Miskton's vision meetings are helpful."

Betlind says, "I'll have to make it a point to drag myself outta the forge and head down there."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Well thanks again for coming, is this a good night to schedule meetings?"

Betlind says, "Easy to waste the winter andaen away in there."

Gwenddolyn says, "Perhaps you could talk to a few others and get them to the next one."

Betlind says, "Absolutely."

You ask Betlind, "And miss the snow and brisk weather?"

Betlind says, "On both accounts."

~~Another dang smudge even larger snowflake..sorry lost two lines from that one.

Betlind says to you, "I feel I enjoy it PLENTY enough on the brisk jog from the forge back to my house, thank you very much."

You say, "Asking Pfanston to mention it at the frequent ranger's meeting could be worth doing."

Betlind says to Gwenddolyn, "Hrm, gotta find a way to drag 'em back in then."

Gwenddolyn says, "Hanryu told him."

Betlind says, "Herding Rangers... Of all the paladin tasks that have fallen to me over the years... I swear."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thanks again, looking forward to meeting down there at the wall in 2 months, world joust next month."

Gwenddolyn says, "So for the following month."

You say, "I know a few I could share the invitation as well."

Betlind says, "Thank you both for putting this together and all the work and effort."

Gwenddolyn says, "Not just emerald knights."

Gwenddolyn says, "Though certain areas only ek can go still."

You say, "It was educational. Opened my eyes to a whole new world."

Betlind says to you, "And, once more..."

Betlind says to you, "Well done."

Gwenddolyn says, "Mine too, I had forgotten so much."

You say, "Thank you...my honor."

Gwenddolyn says, "He grasped the task, indeed."

Gwenddolyn says, "It was hard."

Gwenddolyn says, "And he only had 3 days notice."

Betlind says to you, "Remember though, when she starts trying to get you to work the forge for her, it's ok to draw the line SOMEWHERE."

You say, "A lot of material to scour."

You say, "I dabble, but leave it to the experts like you two."

Gwenddolyn says, "Next meeting I have something to give you."

Betlind says, "Oh, hang around us enough and that'll quickly change."

You say, "Too hot."

Gwenddolyn says, "Shhh."

Betlind says, "Mmmfmfm."

Gwenddolyn says, "What I will give you, you will laugh."

Betlind says, "I can't wait."

Gwenddolyn says, "Well full scale blizzard."

Gwenddolyn says, "Back to haven."

You ask, "Thinking it might be nice to go make some snow angels on the Dragon's Spine. Any takers?"

Gwenddolyn says, "I have 5 more shields to forge of damite for the world joust."

Betlind says, "And I'm headin' to Dirge, so, sadly looks like our trails all split here."

Betlind says, "But seems as fate would have it they're all gonna lead back together again sooner than later."

Betlind says, "So you two stay safe until then."

Betlind says, "Always a pleasure and an honor."

You say, "Same."

~~It was at this point I took my leave retreating with a quick salute to my home to make these notes.

~~Prepared and humbly submitted by Vaddon.

Meeting on the 445th year, 37th day since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer  

A meeting was called of the Emerald Knights on the 445th year, 37th day since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer. It was an overcast evening, and the meeting was held at the Shard Meeting Tower in the Hall of the Hunt.

Gwenddolyn says, "Good to see everyone again."

Gwenddolyn says, "Get your classes and groups set."

Gwenddolyn says, "I will silence the room during the history lecture and the status report update, then will open the floor for discussion of meeting topics."

Gwenddolyn says, "Alright everyone have a seat and we will get started."

Gwenddolyn says, "Silencing the room in 1 roisen, it will be reopened following the lecture and status reports."

Gwenddolyn says, "I will start with the general rules of order, as every meeting will."

Gwenddolyn says, "Disruptions during lectures and status reports are not acceptable rules of order, only when the floor is opened for discussion. This includes limiting movements, comments and casting spells or doing anything else."

Gwenddolyn says, "Our field status reports will always be mid year at Brent's bar and are less formal."

Gwenddolyn says, "Our lecture tonight is being presented by Knight Vaddon, and our status report will be given by Knight Grymmlen."

You say, "Greetings all."

You say, "I fear my studies have been lacking."

You say, "But I do have my observations to share about the Lost Ground."

You say, "Tonight I wanted to report on my recent travels through the Lost Grounds. This follows Emerald Knight Hanryu's excellent report on the 242 Day of 444."

You say, "During my recent participation in the Mountain Guard's recent patrol in support of the Emerald Knights, I stayed on the wall for a few days in their support and to collect this information."

You say, "In general, I didn't observe any new signs or changes to the area outside the wall. But thought for those that haven't been outside the wall recently into the Lost Grounds to summarize my observations."

You say, "When you first step into the Lost Grounds, it's a bit surreal. The fog is intense and obscures mere steps in front of you making it difficult to even know how to move. The more time you spend outside the wall however, the more confident you become navigating the area."

You say, "As you make those tentative steps throughout the Lost Ground, you begin to notice the ruins of once great structures scattered throughout the landscape. The remnants of buildings and fortifications lay in ruins, their stones long since worn away by the elements. Some structures have completely collapsed, leaving only piles of rubble as evidence of their existence."

You say, "These piles of rubble are rumored to be Morgane's Arm. Though I don't have confirmation."

You say, "I would be interested in other's thoughts on this after I'm done."

You say, "With these remarks."

You say, "Despite the desolate surroundings, there is a strange beauty to be found in the Lost Ground. The twisted branches of the trees create intricate patterns against the gray sky, and the occasional burst of color from wildflowers growing amidst the ruins provides a stark contrast to the bleakness of the landscape."

You say, "Occasionally your foot catches on caltrops. These catlrops are actually a hazard to the uninformed. The sharp nails or spines can easily puncture flimsy footwear and you must be careful to watch your step. True to their purpose, the do slow foot travel throughout the area. Compounding that with the mud, travel is slow navigating the lands."

You say, "As the day wears on, the fog seems to grow thicker, and you find it increasingly difficult to see your way through the dense brush. Strange noises echo through the trees, and you begin to feel as though you are being watched. You wonder if the shadowy figures atop the wall are still keeping a close eye on you."

You say, "Catching in the wind on occasion are abandoned banners. These banners are in the color and heraldry of the Emerald Knights. Though long abandoned they do stake the claim to the battle ground that remains for the efforts of the Emerald Knights and all those that lend their hand in the valiant defense of the Wall."

You say, "And the battles still waged in the Lost Ground."

You say, "As night falls, best to return to the safety of the wall. However, there is an abandoned dovecote. That can provide sanctuary to the unprepared traveler. This is a remnant of a structure that housed doves that carried messages back to Shard. For some reason, the wormwood vines and shadow weavers avoid this area. The dovecote provides you a chance to set up camp if necessary."

You say, "So seek shelter there if you must."

You say, "But heed this warning, the darkness is absolute, and you can barely make out the shapes of the trees around you. The silence is broken only by the occasional hoot of an owl or the rustling of underbrush as some small creature scurries by. You realize that you are truly alone in this desolate place, and a feeling of isolation washes over you."

You ask, "Despite the challenges and dangers of the journey, you can't help but feel drawn to the Lost Ground in a twisted way. There is a sense of mystery and intrigue that permeates the landscape, and you are left with the feeling that there is much more to be discovered beyond the wall. But do you dare?"

You say, "So, I appreciate your time listening to this story and welcome the chance for any personal observations you may want to share before moving on with our agenda this evening."

You ask, "Speaking of which, does anyone have anything they would like to share about the Lost Grounds?"

You say, "Or maybe we should...hold those comments to the end."

You say, "Since we are still in the formal phase of this meeting."

Gwenddolyn says, "Very well done."

Gwenddolyn says, "I truly appreciate your dedication and attention to detail."

Gwenddolyn says, "I would be interested in checking out those ruins with you Vaddon, and we can report on them at an upcoming meeting."

Gwenddolyn says, "Anyone else wanting to come will be welcome."

Gwenddolyn says, "And now our updated field report, to be given by Knight Grymmlen."

Grymmlen says to Gwenddolyn, "Thank you."

Grymmlen says, "Good evening Knights and to all of our guests. It's good to see you all again."

Grymmlen says, "I had the opportunity to visit the Wall recently...It brought back many...memories."

Grymmlen says, "As I'm sure it does to all who have walked the ramparts."

Grymmlen says, "I had the opportunity to speak with Captain Fenhalut and with Grimnur upon my visit."

Grymmlen says, "I was mildly amazed in the fact that very little has changed since I last visited. The Dark Hand is still with us..Make no mistake about that."

Grymmlen says, "I had the opportunity to speak at length with Grimnur and although he wasn't very forthcoming...I did learn some things."

Grymmlen says, "I speciifically asked him about Sir Beren. And was surprised at the answer I received. Although he couldn't say when he saw Beren last, he did state that he was still out fighting The Hand."

Grymmlen says, "Exactly where...is still in question."

Grymmlen says, "I really don't have much more to add, other than, if and when you all get a chance...Visit the Wall. Speak to Grimnur and Captain Fenhalut. They are The Watch."

Grymmlen says, "One comment I feel I need to make concerning Sir Vaddon's report."

Grymmlen says to you, "I agree with your assessment that the ruins are indeed the remainder of Morganae's Arm. As does Grinnur."

Grymmlen says, "'With that I relinquish the podium. Thank you."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thank you so much for all of your effort and observations Grymmlen. Very well done."

Gwenddolyn says, "Walking the ramparts and in that harsh area is not an easy task."

Gwenddolyn says, "It is exciting to hear Grimner said that Sir Beren is fighting in the hand."

Gwenddolyn says, "That is something new."

Gwenddolyn says, "It confirms he is still alive."

Gwenddolyn says, "These suttle changes are what we are looking for."

Gwenddolyn says, "Excellent work indeed."

Gwenddolyn says, "I am now going to open the floor for discussion about an group going down to see these ruins and assess them and speak further with Grimner about Sir Beren."

Gwenddolyn says, "The room is now open for discission."

Gwenddolyn says, "One at a time please."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Does anyone have questions for either of these Knights?"

You say, "Thinking about the Lost Ground, I do have something else to share."

You say, "Much less formal, but interesting."

Gwenddolyn says, "It all is so fascinating."

You ask, "As mentioned earlier, the Mountain Guard lead by Lady of Elamiri Ayrell Evyntine-Vershir patrolled the Lost Grounds in support of the Emerald Knights on the 34th day of the 10th month of Nissa the Maiden. Many of you in attendance this evening participated in this effort. Who here was able to lend their sword or talents that evening by show of hands?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Thank you for the help, and the night off."

You say, "Yes, I recall standing to shoulder to shoulder with you both."

You say, "Myself, I ended up staying down on the wall for a few days following that patrol lending my sword to our fellow Emerald Knights. One evening I joined the Knights circled around a campfire as they sang songs. One song in particular I thought I would share with you all which seems appropriate for our earlier conversation."

You say, "Granted, I'm not a bard but I do enjoy mead and merriment. So singing is something I do, though not very well. Regardless, I ask that you kept your tomatoes tucked away as I share this song."

You say, "This song is about the Lost Ground, and those Emerald Knights who stand guard against the darkness. It draws in reference to Blackthorn Canyon and the Lost Ground, where shadows and darkness reign. It's a place where creatures of dread lurk beyond the wall, waiting to strike and shred anyone who dares to enter. So without further ado, I shall sing."

VAUGHANF (talk)Vaddon then launches into song, that drove one Knight to flee the meeting hall. So it's not included here for the sake of safety of the readers of this log.

You say, "So, with that...."

Gwenddolyn says, "Moving on to new business."

Gwenddolyn says, "Knight Hanryu stated he wanted to lead a hunt following the next mid year field status report."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Is that still on the agenda?"

Hanryu says, "Seems fine to me. Always fun to wander down there and kill some vines."

Gwenddolyn says, "It will be a plus to take part of the group or whomever wants to go after the informal report."

Gwenddolyn says, "In the meantime, we will agree on a different time to go check out the ruins."

Gwenddolyn says, "And anyone wanting to go, tell Vaddon now so he can give you the details when we know them."

Gwenddolyn says, "Until vaddon and I have time to discuss it further."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Does anyone have any other new ideas or new event business?"

Gwenddolyn says, "One last thing."

Gwenddolyn says, "I need a volunteer emerald knight to do the mid year field status report\."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Elurora?"

Elurora says, "I'm sorry,I do not have the time."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Anyone else willing to?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Well then, I will have to select someone."

Hanryu says, "Maybe next time we just go hunting. Less talking more slicing."

Elurora says, "I like that idea."

Gwenddolyn says, "We do need an update about sir beren."

Gwenddolyn says, "It will be at brents bar and you can leave right afterwards."

Gwenddolyn says, "So I will do the next report then."

Gwenddolyn says, "Knight Grymmlen has one last thing."

You say, "Brent like us...free ale."

Grymmlen says to Gwenddolyn, "Thank you."

Grymmlen says, "I would ask that all Knights present please stand."

Grymmlen says, "'Our cause is not fame. Our cause is not wealth. Our cause is to fight this evil that defiles our realms. If you do not swear your blood oath to fight the Hand until the last, you do not ride with the Emerald Knights. Scars will be your medals, and your glory only another dawn. Swear your life and ride with the Emerald Knights."

Gwenddolyn exclaims, "Here here!"

Grymmlen exclaims, "HUZZAH!"

Elgalad exclaims, "I swear!"

Gwenddolyn says, "And with that, this meeting is adjourned."

Ishimmer asks, "Ok pali ranga hunts?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Thank you all."

Gwenddolyn says, "For your support."

Hanryu says, "Safe paths everyone."

Ishimmer says, "Thanks for the gathering."

Gwenddolyn says, "Next meeting will be on the calendar."

~~Prepared and humbly submitted by Squire Vaddon.

Meeting on the 446 year, 28th day since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer  

Third Annual Emerald Knights' Meeting held on the 28th day 446 years since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer in Shard at the Hall of the Hunt. Those in attendance included; Mother Jaelia, Knight Templar Nanakii, Primal Lady Zalinyar, Squire Eskila, Light of the World Gwenddolyn, Squire Cheyee, Emerald Knight Vaddon

Gwenddolyn says, "Welcome to the 3rd Annual Round Table Meeting of the Emerald Knights."

Gwenddolyn says, "I will give my updated field report after vaddon gives his."

You say to Gwenddolyn, "Thank you."

You clearly say, "Two items of interest to report this year."

You say, "First, as I continue to collect the oral histories of those near the wall, I frequently return to continue my interviews with the people of Blackthorn Canyon. This past year was no exception."

You say, "As I inquired of the various folks, I made a particular effort to interview our fellow members and leaders Fenhalut, Eothim, Grimnur and the Last. In addition, to provide a more complete picture, I interviewed the trader Brindle, barkeep Brent, and the herbalist Doritee. Other residents I approached remained tight lipped offering no additional information to complete the picture."

You say, "Regretfully, their tongues have not loosened, and no new information was shared."

You thoughtfully say, "Though as I reflected on those conversations, I realized a point I had previously missed."

You say, "When speaking with Doritee, she once again mentioned her agreement with Commander Fenhalut."

You say, "She spoke of her agreement between them that only after a childs thirteenth name-day can a child pick up a weapon."

You say, "When I mentioned this to Jaelia, she suggested that requiring age 13, they want people who have enough life experience, to be certain of their commentment and understanding of they are they are doing and joining."

You enthusiastically say, "This highlights to me a recruiting standard that I hadnt considered. It also emphasized the importance of Blackthorn Canyon to the recruiting ranks of the Emerald Knights."

You say, "Second, as mentioned in our midyear gathering my curiosity about the locked library has been resolved."

You say, "Recently I can only assume an errant tradesman changed out the locks on the library doors. Rumors circulated quickly that the door could be opened without a key using other tools."

You say, "Hearing those rumors, and my prior interest, I found an accomplished locksmith and went to Corik s Wall to investigate."

You say, "My accomplice, Zalinyar, and I found the rumors to be true and the doors are now pickable. We quickly gained entry. However, be warned there is a nasty surprise if you bumble in your efforts."

You say, "Regardless, the library is the study and bedroom of Commander Fenhaults. Within the room is a book case with a complete set of the Emerald Chronicles. As you may recall, The Chronicles share letters written from the Knight's Second Commander Geoff Graev to his friend Hren Nebbanwritten."

You say, "Though growing dark, we quickly scanned the chronicles noting no new information much to our disappointment. However it was a delight to marvel at the complete set."

You say, "Also worth noting, is the room is monitored by the guards and they keep the door secured at all times. They did not take exception with our research, but did lock the door."

You say, "It also appears a Page is assigned to Commander Fenhault as his personal aide. He kept close watch on us as we handled the Chronicles."

You say, "When we were done and left, I inadvertently discovered a crossbow bolt in my left leg as my ignorance of locks became quickly apparent."

You say, "Zalinyar studied the bolt noting that it was made of copper but of similar craftsmanship of other bolts common through the lands."

You say, "I took exception to the use of copper. I find this curious but will leave it any accomplished metallurgist in our midst s to decide whether any information from that would be helpful."

You say, "And the final point of interest was the pages direction not to hand the bolt to each other. Curious to know more about this Page, because he only appears randomly and otherwise is in the shadows unseen."

Gwenddolyn says, "Interesting."

You say, "There may be other secrets which we couldn't discover."

You inspiringly say, "I will close my report with the words of Commander Fenhault as a stark reminder to maintain diligence, which are, The terror beyond these defenses must never be allowed to breach them."

You curtly say, "Thank you, fellow Knights, for your attentions steadfast service. End of report."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thank you vaddon."

Gwenddolyn says, "Now moving on to my field report."

Gwenddolyn says, "I have spent much time there, looking over the ruins, so on with it."

Gwenddolyn says, "Here is my field report combined with some related historical information."

Gwenddolyn says, "Historical records show that the Corik's Wall was repaired and defended by the Emerald Knights after their founding in 183 and fell to the Dark Hand in 192 AV."

Gwenddolyn says, "After the Dragon Priest wars ended, Ferdahl Alec of Shard was left with the threat that remained of overwhelming taint from their experiments and magics that blighted the lands and the creatures south of the city."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Ferdahl called for volunteers to help wage a mission to contain and beat back the corruption. The Humans who answered this call to arms were mostly rangers and paladins, who are now known as Shadow Clan."

Gwenddolyn says, "This band of men and women fighters took on their mission with such unrelenting dedication that the Emerald Knights still talk about them in modern times."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Humans of Shadow Clan live entirely within the Dark Hand itself, where every moment of their existence is a struggle to fight the creatures within it and nost rarely leave until they die."

Gwenddolyn says, "Most."

Gwenddolyn says, "One other point of interest is about the child who has appeared in several of the recent visions. I believe this is the son of the Matron of Shadow Ptera, named Seome."

Gwenddolyn says, "Grimnur continually mentions that he was just a young boy when he went over the wall and folks thought that he had been long dead when he come back with her. Also Grimnur says, "You see, he was the first child to learn what it is they know."

Gwenddolyn says, "We defintely need to figure out what he meant by that last comment, and learn what it is they know."

Gwenddolyn says, "My own opinion about some of the Original Seven Paladins and other Paladins who have gone missing, they are somewhere beyond the Lost Grounds. There has to be a place that leads into another area that we have yet to discover."

Gwenddolyn says, "Many have gone missing as far back as Syal, Csilla, Drelden, and more recently Sir Beren and Oane. Also Emille the Fist, whose armor, shield and weapon are also missing, along with no body in either her real or her fake tomb."

Gwenddolyn says, "I recently have found some odd ruins strewn around the Lost Grounds, and I am continuing to study them as various archaeological sites. It has gotten quite interesting, and I have come across some intriguing items along the way that require further research."

Gwenddolyn says, "One of them are ruins of a bailey, which seems quite out of place there. A bailey is an entry building that leads into a castle."

Gwenddolyn says, "Morganae's Arm was not a castle. It was a fortified wall, used as a defense to keep the tainted creatures from entering into Ilithi."

Gwenddolyn says, "During that time, there was only one castle in this entire area, and that was Highhold. I suspect that Morganae's Arm was built just outside of Highhold because that is where all the fighting took place, since they were fighting over control of Highhold."

Gwenddolyn says, "So was that bailey an entryway into the renown Highhold? How long ago was that? According to historical records, it was over 254 years ago that Morganae's Arm Fell to the Dark Hand."

Gwenddolyn says, "Some other interesting archaelogical items I found in the strewn ruins were several large boulders dwarfed by the size of the old, rusted-out trebuchet. Barely clinging by one end to the rather ill-wrought siege engine, the heavy sling dangles to the ground like a giant razor strap."

Gwenddolyn says, "Among the items I found were some old caltrops, which are spiked traps, several small groupings of burial mounds, an extremely old oak tree, the rusted remains of an old sally-port, an old well, a small dovecote, a squat opening in an old wall, and the remains of an outer bailey of what was once a mighty fortress."

Gwenddolyn says, "I will be spending some time down there continuing to research these finds and looking for more items of interest in the ruins."

Gwenddolyn says, "I suggest that other Emerald Knights take the time to look at these remnants of that great battle and see if you can discover something that I've missed."

Gwenddolyn says, "A little historical information that I am taking extremely serious is a reference in 241 BL, that Corik the Black Cloud becomes the Ferdahl. Could the black cloud near the wolf constellation be related to Corik somehow? No other historical figure has ever been referred to as such."

Gwenddolyn says, "So I am going to repeat this part, as it may become extremely important for us to know this."

Gwenddolyn says, "Morganae's Arm was built by Corik as a forward defensive position south of what is now called Corik's Wall, in the area known as the Lost Grounds. He named this forward defense after the Mountain Queen, hoping she would come to the aid of his city's defense. but she did not and let the city burn instead of coming to help them."

Gwenddolyn says, "Historical records show that the wall was repaired and defended by the Emerald Knights after their founding in 183 and fell to the Dark Hand in 192 AV. An account of the early Knights and the Arm can be found in the The Emerald Chronicles by Geoff Graev in the now accessable library there."

Gwenddolyn says, "After the Dragon Priest wars ended, Ferdahl Alec of Shard was left with the threat that remained of overwhelming taint from their experiments and magics that blighted the lands and the creatures south of the city."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Ferdahl called for volunteers to help wage a mission to contain and beat back the corruption. The Humans who answered this call to arms were mostly rangers and paladins, who are now known as Shadow Clan."

Gwenddolyn says, "This band of men and women fighters took on their mission with such unrelenting dedication that the Emerald Knights still talk about them in modern times. I do believe that there is more to this story, and we are close to discovering a new pathway that will lead us to an undiscovered area beyond the Lost Grounds, which may have the answers that we seek."

Gwenddolyn says, "Now the floor is open to other emerald knights."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Does any other knight have anything to add?"

Gwenddolyn says, "The formal part of this meeing providing updates is completed."

Gwenddolyn says, "The floor is open to others to comment."

Gwenddolyn says, "I am intrigued about the library."

You say, "Fascinating room."

Gwenddolyn says, "You need to look in every nook and cranny."

You say, "Well..."

You say, "It's a bit hard in all this armor."

Gwenddolyn says, "Like I found the letter and bottle in darius's office, there must be something there."

You say, "But I think Zalinyar did."

Gwenddolyn says, "Open forum now."

Zalinyar says, "I looked on, in, under behind and searched everything I could put my hands on."

Zalinyar says, "GOt a splinter from the back of the bookcase."

Gwenddolyn says, "They are there toiling and watching you for a reason."

Gwenddolyn asks, "What do they have to hide?"

You say, "It was very curious, I'll say."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Why is the door still locked?"

You say, "And when the guard passes in the hallway, the guard relocks it."

Zalinyar says, "But I believe that a bard may be able to employ their recal abilities in a more quiet manner, as every time I did something, the page got after me. Honestly I'm surprised I didn't get Vaddon thrown out."

Gwenddolyn asks, "While you are in t?"

You say, "Yes, when they make rounds."

Gwenddolyn asks, "You can open it to leave?"

Zalinyar says, "And it's odd that you can hear the griding of the portcullis through the wall I thought. Maybe there's a hidden passageway."

You say, "Have to unlock it."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Or do you have to pick it again?"

Zalinyar says, "I picked the lock."

You say, "I got a bolt out of it."

Zalinyar says, "SOrry, not sorry."

Gwenddolyn says, "So you could get locked in."

You say, "Oh yes, you're definetly locked in. But then the page is kind of creepy."

Gwenddolyn asks, "What did he look like?"

Zalinyar says, "The page locks the door behind you."

You say, "There and isn't."

You say, "Too quick for me to get a description."

Nanakii says, "Odd."

Zalinyar says, "He was... plain."

You say, "Fast kid, that page is."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Was he an emerald knight?"

You say, "Too young."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Seome?"

Zalinyar says, "He took an exception to me searching the chronicles."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Exception?"

You say, "Couldn't draw that conclusion."

Zalinyar says, "And after I yanked the bolt out of vaddons leg, he wouldn't let me hand it to vaddon or allow me to study the bolt in the room."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Really?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Very odd behavior."

Zalinyar seriously says to Gwenddolyn, "This is stuff you can't make up."

Gwenddolyn says, "When I went in there years ago, there was no page."

Zalinyar asks, "But were you tossing the room?"

You say, "He only appears to warn, then slinks back to the shadows."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Did they say anything to Zali about not being a knight?"

Zalinyar says, "I mean... respectfully looking for clues."

Gwenddolyn says, "She was with vaddon so they did not."

Zalinyar says, "No, but Vaddon didn't leave me unattended in Emerald Knight territory."

Gwenddolyn says, "No that would not be wise."

Gwenddolyn says, "Well I should go in there and needle that page."

You say, "We moved freely without incident."

Gwenddolyn says, "Though I would need a good lockpicker."

Zalinyar says, "He's quick."

You say, "She can do it."

Zalinyar says, "Sure can."

Gwenddolyn says, "So about the ruins."

You say, "I don't think I would be wise for me to try again. Next time might be something more umm."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Doesn't anyone have anything to say, especially about the bailey?"

You say, "Important."

You say, "I agree with the bailey."

Zalinyar quietly says to you, "Books are very important."

You say, "Think that is the right track on the Arm."

Gwenddolyn says, "No bailey is recorded in history."

You say, "I will plan to check out the boulders as well."

Zalinyar asks, "The lost Chapel?"

Gwenddolyn says, "It must be part of highhold, as that was what they were fighting over."

You say, "Too worried about getting these boots muddy to look at the bigger rocks."

Gwenddolyn says, "Look behind, under, everything you can tap."

Gwenddolyn says, "Turn everything."

Gwenddolyn says, "Pull everything."

Gwenddolyn says, "Push everything."

Zalinyar says, "Push, poke pull, kick too."

Gwenddolyn says, "In the library too."

Gwenddolyn says, "We are missing something."

Zalinyar says, "Even licked a few things."

Zalinyar says, "The noises from the portcullis."

You ask Gwenddolyn, "'I think you're right?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Yes and the howling."

Zalinyar says, "Can clearly be heard from the library."

Gwenddolyn says, "Interesting indeed."

Gwenddolyn says, "Alright, meeting adjourned."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thanks for coming all."

Meeting on the 447th year, 20th day since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer  

Fourth Annual Emerald Knights' Meeting held on the 20th day 447 years since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer in Blackthorn Canyon at the Old Mine Bar. Those in attendance included; Veteran Apprentice Anuril, Champion Seydin, Nepenthe Huebald, Knight Penitent Briaen who is surrounded by a corona of fiery light, Hunter Hanryu, Heart Tender Kethrai, Emerald Knight Akolu, Squire Cheyee, Squire Eskila who is followed closely by a neatly organized mischief of rats, Primal Lady Zalinyar who is sitting, Black Fox Jaelia who is emanating a benevolent holy aura, Truthseeker Elurora whose figure is gracefully highlighted in a soft aurora of silvery-violet light, Light of the World Gwenddolyn who is surrounded by a corona of fiery light and Emerald Knight Vaddon.

My notes of the meeting follows;

Gwenddolyn says, "Welcome to the Emerald Knight 4th Annual Round Table Meeting. My name is Gwenddolyn, and I am pleased to meet you, and. good to see those I have already met."

Gwenddolyn says, "Since Betlind is not here and sorely missed, I will give her opening speech about the general meeting rules of order."

Gwenddolyn says, "At our 1st Annual Round Table Meeting, we voted to allow non-Emerald Knights to attend and listen in on our official annual Round Table Meetings and Mid-year Field Reports, with the understanding that interruptions would violate the general rules of meeting order."

Gwenddolyn says, "This includes comments made out loud by non-Emerald Knights during the official business meeting, and your cooperation with limiting your actions during the meeting will be greatly appreciated."

Gwenddolyn says, "Once we have ended the reports and updates, the floor will be opened to everyone for discussion and questions about the meeting content."

Gwenddolyn says, "I am very interested in what others have to say once we have completed our reports and the floor is open for discussion with everyone."

Gwenddolyn says, "So first, official Emerald Knight business. I will provide some related historical information, followed by my updated field report."

Gwenddolyn says, "My report will be followed by our Scribe, Emerald Knight Vaddon, and then after he has finished, any other Emerald Knight who has a report or update to share."

Gwenddolyn says, "In 195 BL, the Dark Hand is created in South Ilithi in Adamantia, destroying the land and isolating High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "Just 37 years later, in 158 BL, High Hold is destroyed by its isolation caused by the Dark Hand."

Gwenddolyn says, "Within 2 years, in 156 BL, patrols along the northern Alaudian border report seeing a land of the living dead that stretched southward toward Adamantia and to High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "In my next annual report, I will give the history of High Hold and the many attempts at sieges to take control of this famous Dwarven-built castle, that was first erected over 17 centuries ago."

Gwenddolyn says, "Almost 4 centuries after the creation of the Dark Hand, historical records show that the Corik's Wall was repaired and defended by the Emerald Knights after their founding in 183 AV and it fell to the Dark Hand in 192 AV."

Gwenddolyn says, "After the Dragon Priest wars ended, Ferdahl Alec of Shard was left with the threat that remained of overwhelming taint from their experiments and magics that blighted the lands and the creatures south of the city."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Ferdahl called for volunteers to help wage a mission to contain and beat back the corruption. The Humans who answered this call to arms were mostly rangers and paladins, who are known as Shadow Clan."

Gwenddolyn says, "This band of men and women fighters took on their mission with such unrelenting dedication that the Emerald Knights still talk about them in modern times."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Humans of Shadow Clan live entirely within the Dark Hand itself, where every moment of their existence is a struggle to fight the creatures within it and most rarely leave until they die."

Gwenddolyn says, "One point of interest is about the child who is the son of the Matron of Shadow Ptera, named Seome."

Gwenddolyn says, "Grimnur continually mentions that he was just a young boy when he went over the wall and folks thought that he had been long dead when he come back with her. Grimnur said, "You see, he was the first child to learn what it is they know."

Gwenddolyn says, "We definitely need to figure out what he meant by that last comment, and learn exactly what it is they know."

Gwenddolyn says, "So many Paladins who have gone missing, and some were last known to have gone into the Lost Grounds looking for someone. There has to be a place that leads into another area that we have yet to discover."

Gwenddolyn says, "Many have gone missing as far back as Syal, Csilla and Drelden of the original seven paladins. More recently missing were Sir Beren and Paladin Researcher Oane."

Gwenddolyn says, "Emille the Fist, whose armor, shield and weapon are also missing, along with no body in either her real or fake tomb. So where is she? She must be fighting and needed her armor, shield and weapon."

Gwenddolyn says, "I recently have found some odd ruins strewn around the Lost Grounds, and I am continuing to study them as various archaeological sites. It has gotten quite interesting, and I have come across some intriguing items along the way that require further research."

Gwenddolyn says, "One of them are ruins of a bailey, which seems quite out of place there. A bailey is an entry building that leads into a castle."

Gwenddolyn says, "Morganae's Arm was not a castle. It was a fortified wall, used as a defense to keep the tainted creatures from entering into Ilithi."

Gwenddolyn says, "During that time, there was only one castle in this entire area, and that was High Hold. I suspect that Morganae's Arm was built just outside of High Hold, because that is where most of the fighting took place since they were fighting over control of High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "So was that bailey the original entryway into the renown High Hold? How long ago was that? According to historical records, it was over 254 years ago that Morganae's Arm Fell to the Dark Hand."

Gwenddolyn says, "The bailey is viewable from several of the west and south rooms, four to be exact. Two are on the west side, north and west of the dovecote. One is on the southwest corner and the other is on a south room. I am convinced this bailey extended westerly and led to High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "Some other interesting archaeological items I found in the strewn ruins were several large boulders dwarfed by the size of an old, rusted-out trebuchet."

Gwenddolyn says, "Both trebuchets and both boulders are points of interest that I am continuing to study. I am looking into the possible restoration and repair of both trebuchets."

Gwenddolyn says, "Also an interesting old small dovecote, that was likely used to house doves and pigeons and that sent important messages during the fighting."

Gwenddolyn says, "Other items I found were some old carefully placed caltrops in two rooms north and south of each other, which are spiked traps."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Also two small groupings of burial mounds marked by banners, one on the west side and the other on the east side. Why were the caltrops put i the nrooms that led to an old bailey, to preventing others from seeing the bailey?"

Gwenddolyn says, "I also found an old oak tree, the rusted remains of an old sally-port, an old well, and a squat opening in an old wall, all of which are still under investigation as points of interest."

Gwenddolyn says, "The opening is unique because not only is there a ladder there, but there is also a separate frame, which are clearly two different items."

Gwenddolyn says, "It is not the frame of the ladder, but perhaps it is the frame of a rotted out walkway that had wooden planks which rotted away over time, leaving just the frame."

Gwenddolyn says, "I will continue spending some time researching these finds and looking for more items of interest in the ruins."

Gwenddolyn says, "I suggest that other Emerald Knights take the time to look at these remnants of that great battle to see if anyone can discover something that I've missed. Also, remember if you bring non-mustered friends beyond the wall, do not leave them behind or separate them from your group."

Gwenddolyn says, "Some historical information that I am taking extremely seriously is a reference to 241 BL, when Corik the Black Cloud became the Ferdahl. No other historical figure has ever been referred to as such, the Black Cloud."

Gwenddolyn says, "So I am going to repeat this part, as it may become extremely important for us to know this history."

Gwenddolyn says, "Morganae's Arm was built by Corik as a forward defensive position south of what is now called Corik's Wall, in the area known as the Lost Grounds. He named this forward defense after the Mountain Queen, hoping she would come to the aid of his city's defense. but she did not and let the city burn instead of coming to help them."

Gwenddolyn says, "Historical records show that the wall was repaired and defended by the Emerald Knights after their founding in 183 and fell to the Dark Hand in 192 AV. An account of the early Knights and the Arm can be found in the The Emerald Chronicles by Geoff Graev in the now accessable library there."

Gwenddolyn says, "After the Dragon Priest wars ended, Ferdahl Alec of Shard was left with the threat that remained of overwhelming taint from their experiments and magics that blighted the lands and the creatures south of the city."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Ferdahl called for volunteers to help wage a mission to contain and beat back the corruption. The Humans who answered this call to arms were mostly rangers and paladins, who are known as Shadow Clan."

Gwenddolyn says, "This band of men and women fighters took on their mission with such unrelenting dedication that the Emerald Knights still talk about them in modern times."

Gwenddolyn says, "I do believe that there is more to this story, and that we are close to discovering a new pathway that will lead us to an undiscovered area beyond the Lost Grounds, which may have the answers that we seek."

Gwenddolyn says, "It is up to us as Emerald Knights to watch for any changes in the area, prevent any further encroachment of corruption beyound these walls, and to continue to search for the missing Paladins."

Gwenddolyn says, "Oddly, that was the same mission the original seven paladins were tasked with, to battle back whatever Syal was fighting, which could very well be closeby."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Another recent discovery made was about the Vela'tohr. Is it possible to remove the taint from the Lost Grounds with this new magic known as the Embrace of the Vela'tohr?"

Gwenddolyn says, "I am very curious about this new discovery, and we have yet to unlock its true potential. I would like to work with a group of Empaths and Clerics to try a few experiments with a large group in the Lost Grounds, not just one Empath trying to do it themself."

Gwenddolyn says, "I have wondered if the current Vela'thor plants would be able to provide a seedling somehow. Elurora mentioned it could be brought to this side of the wall to tend and grow with the help of several empaths, then moved into the Lost Grounds once it was an adult plant."

Gwenddolyn says, "Now moving on to the next report. Vaddon was painfully absent at the last field report update, and his scribe duties were greatly missed."

Gwenddolyn says, "I understood that he had quite an update for us all. He collected oral histories of those near the wall, inquiring with the people of Blackthorn Canyon."

Gwenddolyn exclaims, "But he is here now to give us his report!"

Gwenddolyn says, "Sorry I talk so fast for your scribing."

You enthusiastically exclaim, "Good evening, my fellow Emerald Knights and guests!" You say, "I hope you're all well and are in good spirits. In my report, I wanted to share a few things."

You say, "First, I have picked up additional patrols on the wall for extended periods. This past summer and fall were an amazing time on the wall. The desolate nature of the area has its own beauty that is only appreciated with time spent here. It s captivating in its own way, but I miss seeing everyone."

You regretfully say, "So, I regret missing our last meeting. I was there in spirit, but the continued task of defending the wall wouldn t allow my departure at that time. Let alone, our Second Grimnur."

You attentively say, "Second, I continue to regularly visit with the folks around Blackthorn Canyon to build rapport and trust with them about the going-ons around the area. Maybe one day, I will be privy to the true gossip in the Canyon."

You casually say, "However as is typical of the good folk, they had nothing new to report in their chatter and musings about life and thoughts on different people and history of the area. I hope with time, I will gain their trust that they will share their deeper thoughts and stories about the area."

You say, "Finally, I wanted to share a recent experience and my thoughts about the adventure."

You humorously say, "During my time on the wall, a young paladin named Rizk stumbled up the battlements looking to join our esteemed group. He was this bright-eyed, bushy-tailed, and about as green as the fields of Illithi."

You apologetically say, "A part of me wished once again to have that firm grasp of idealism that was so evident in his hunger, but I digress."

You say, "After speaking with the Commander Fenhalut, Rizk set on his way completing the tasks on the wall. After Second Grimnur granted me leave, I chose to help him as he struggled with the work assigned to him."

You humorously exclaim, "And boy, did he need it!"

You ask, "He stumbled, fell, and was completely incompetent with the work to be done. The kind of person that makes you wonder if the Dark Hand is just a bit easier to deal with. You know the type, right?"

You disgustedly say, "So, as I coached and watched him fumble with rocks and stuff my disgust grew. A flicker of light caught my eye, and when I took notice, I was humbled by what I saw."

You admiringly say, "But, despite the monotony of it all, Rizk had a heart full of courage and determination. He didn't just see it as a chore, he saw it as an opportunity to prove his worth. And I couldn't help but chuckle as I watched him wrestle with those rocks, cursing under his breath."

You enthusiastically say, "Now, my friends, that brings me to the point of this story."

You inspiringly say, "In a world as challenging as ours, it's easy even for those of us experienced in the matter to get lost in the daily grind, to forget the reasons we took up the mantle of the Emerald Knights. Remembering the words of Petra, we didn't join for the fame, the glory, or the easy quests. No, we joined to protect Illithi from the darkness that threatens it, just as our founders did."

You passionately say, "We may not have crowds cheering us on, and we may not have the folks we protect offering us favors, but we have something far more important: a purpose. We have each other, united by a common cause, bound by the laurel and lion's claw crest on our badges."

You valiantly say, "So, my fellow Knights, I stand before you today with a simple request. Let's remember our purpose and the legacy of those who came before us. Let's reach out to potential recruits, rangers and paladins alike, and help them complete their quests just as we did and received help from our superiors at the time. Together, we can increase the number of Emerald Knights, strengthen our ranks, and continue the fight against the Dark Hand."

You say, "In the end, it's not about the mundane quests or the lack of cheers."

You passionately say, "It's about the honor, the duty, and the unwavering commitment we have to the lands we call home."

You exclaim, "Thank you for your time and may the laurel and lion's claw guide our way!"

You curtly say, "End of Report."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thank you vaddon."

Gwenddolyn says, "Well done."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Does any other Emerald Knight have anything to share?"

Hanryu says, "I did crack into the library and despite being closed for several decades, it did not seem to have any renovations or new books I could find."

Elurora says, "I would like to respectfully disagree with your assessment on the bailey being a part of Highold. According to what books I could find, Highold had no roads leading to it as it was built high on the peaks of a mountain. It was accessed by a complex series of lifts."

Gwenddolyn says, "I will give my history of High Hold at the next annual meeting."

You say to Elurora, "Could the bailey be the wall in front of highhold? It is considered an outer wall if my books are right."

Gwenddolyn says, "There is quite a bit of reference to it being directly next to the Lost Grounds."

Elurora asks you, "Why would it need that when it was built into the peaks of the mountains?"

Purnay says, "You would want to protect the bottom of the lifts."

Hanryu says, "I'd caution into reading to much into the names of the things scattered around the muck of the Hand. The folks that named those things were typically doing so as they either fought some monstrosity or fled from it."

You ask, "Maybe an outer place at the footholds for the delivery of materials and supplies to those lifts?"

Gwenddolyn says, "That could be a fable about the mountains."

Gwenddolyn says, "The battle here was over control of High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "So it had to be close."

You ask, "It would still need to be protected wouldn't it?"

Gwenddolyn says, "It is referenced to be adjacent to the Dark Hand."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Any other questions or opinions?"

Gwenddolyn says, "I open the floor to everyone now."

Akolu says, "The only report I've to offer is that I've walked beyond the wall a few times for the last 6 andaen, but I haven't noticed any significant increase in the dark hand forces."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thank you for your patrols."

Akolu says, "Thank the gods for that."

Gwenddolyn says, "Keep them up please."

You ask Akolu, "Notice any breaks in the fog?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Good question."

Akolu says, "None that I can recall."

You say, "Just curious."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Anyone else?"

You ask, "Has anyone tried planting those plants in there yet?"

You ask, "Did they work to heal the lands?"

Gwenddolyn says, "None have been seeded yet."

Gwenddolyn says, "They would have to be an adult plant."

You say, "I just wondered."

Gwenddolyn says, "The young ones would die."

Gwenddolyn says, "It is something to consider."

Zalinyar asks, "Or a thicket maybe?"

Elurora says, "I would be curious to see if the ones Empaths can summon would have any effect."

You say, "Thicket is like a whole plant party. That may do the trick."

Gwenddolyn says, "I would like to try a huge group to do it together."

Gwenddolyn says, "1 empath would not have the power to do such a thing."

Gwenddolyn says, "I ask all emerald knights to go check the artifacts in the Lost Grounds, and Rangers, look for new pathways."

You ask Gwenddolyn, "Especially around the sallyport and timbers, right?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Contact Vaddon or myself if you find something of interest."

Gwenddolyn says, "Or in any room the bailey can be seen."

You say, "Yeah, something is a bit off with that area."

Zalinyar asks Gwenddolyn, "The bailey has rooms?"

Gwenddolyn says, "The spiked traps were put near those areas, so that is interesting."

Gwenddolyn says, "You can see the bailey from several different areas."

Zalinyar says, "Usually a bailey is an open courtyard type style area."

Gwenddolyn says, "All south and west areas."

Akolu asks, "I'd be curious to see if the taint would corrupt anything Empaths planted in there, and wonder if it would revert to it's natural parasitic state?"

Gwenddolyn says, "A bailey is an entryway to a castle."

You say, "Akolu Great question, me too."

Jaelia says, "A single plant by itself in the Dark Hand, a corrupted area on our plane, or the Plane of Electricity, a single plant will show signs of being very uncomfortable. So a thicket is probably good to test in both places regardless to see if there is any additional differences or similarities or anything else."

Gwenddolyn says, "You would need several empaths to get a thicket."

Briaen says, "On the subject of purification, I think it prudent to mention that scars play a role in maintaining the point of a lesson. When recently an attempt was made to purify the Ancient Tree near Leth, our group was spirited to Lyba Bima and I to Trefren. The words spoken to me in this place were "Some wounds are endured as a lesson. Some scars serve as reminders." This statement seems important on this subject."

Gwenddolyn says, "I should put Vaddon in charge of it after the next field report."

Gwenddolyn says, "So Vaddon, make a note to take a group of empaths and clerics into the Lost Grounds following the next Mid-year Field Report."

Huebald asks Briaen, " I was thinkin' of this place after we went there for certain, sir. But I don't think it would hurt to try?"

Briaen says to Huebald, "Attempts may be made, and rightly should be. I only bring it up in an attempt to temper expectation of outcome."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Does anyone else have anything to share or ask?"

Kethrai says, "So, on the topic of the vela'tohr plants we are able to summon..."

Kethrai says, "I've done some further research on that, and found some results that I'm not sure how to interpret."

Gwenddolyn says, "Please do share."

Kethrai says, "When we summon these plants in the Vela'tohr Valley in Forfedhdar, they seem to have a noticeable affinity, like they remember it is their home."

Kethrai says, "When we summon them either in the Dark Hand, or in Zengmodaleth, they seem... uncomfortable, as if there's something about the ground they don't like."

Gwenddolyn says, "Interesting."

Elurora says, "That's understandable."

Kethrai says, "Our assumption has generally been that, at least in the case of the Dark Hand, that was due to its corruption."

Gwenddolyn asks, "What about this side of the wall?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Outside of the dark hand and lost ground area."

You say, "Maybe like what Briaen was saying?"

Kethrai says, "Well, here's the thing..."

Kethrai says, "I've traveled to many different areas that I would consider to be corrupted. Some less, some even more, than the Dark Hand."

Kethrai says, "Nowhere else has the plant reacted in that same way."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Do you think a plant can be grown in Forfedhar and brought here as an adult?"

Kethrai says, "Those places include the Whistling Wood, the Forest of Night, the Zaulfung Swamp, the ruins of Oshu'erhhsk Manor, and even Jeihrem's Barrow on Basalt Isle."

Akolu says, "Interesting."

Kethrai says, "The latter of which is so corrupt that even being there causes my empathic senses to be assaulted."

Gwenddolyn says, "Understandable."

Kethrai says, "And it's leading me to wonder if there's something fundamentally different about the Dark Hand that the plant is responding to."

Gwenddolyn says, "Interesting thought."

Elurora slowly asks, "The Zengmodaleth is connected to the other plane, right?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Maybe we should delve into why that is."

Kethrai says, "Other areas I'd like to try but haven't, are in the Astral Plane, and within the decaying soul of Maelshyve."

Elurora slowly asks, "Could the Dragon Priests have drawn something from another plane to the Dark Hand to do whatever they did?"

Gwenddolyn says, "It seems possible."

Kethrai says, "That's all I have for the moment."

You say to Kethrai, "'Good ideas...tough spelling though. Keeping me on my toes."

Gwenddolyn says, "He should just call it that."

Kethrai quietly says, "I don't think Lasarhhtha would have much respect for the common tongue."

Gwenddolyn says, "For anyone interested, I am doing some S'kra Mur history at my next history lecture, among other topics."

You say, "Another good one."

Seydin asks Gwenddolyn, "With trivia to follow?"

Gwenddolyn asks, "Anyone here a recruit?"

Gwenddolyn asks, "Joining the emerald knights?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Ranger or paladin."

Eskila wearily asks Cheyee, "You still want to be a recruit when you're ready?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Meeting adjourned."

~~Prepared and humbly submitted by Scribe Vaddon

Postscript…be sure to follow up with Kethrai on his Lost Grounds Vela'thor plants studies that followed this meeting at the mid-year meeting.

Meeting on the 448th year, 14th day since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer  

Fifth Annual Emerald Knights' Meeting held on the 14th day 448 years since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer in Blackthorn Canyon at the Old Mine Bar. Those in attendance included; Vaerek, Hunter Hanryu, Stargazer Mistanna who is being harassed by an intrigue of phantasmal kittens, Shield of Starlight Betlind, Veri Tervia Huebald, Primal Lady Zalinyar, Light of the World Gwenddolyn who is surrounded by a corona of fiery light, Truthseeker Elurora whose figure is gracefully highlighted in a soft aurora of silvery-violet light and Philosopher Jessalyne who is sitting and Emerald Knight Vaddon.

My notes of the meeting follows;

Gwenddolyn says, "Welcome to the Emerald Knight 5th Annual Round Table Meeting. My name is Gwenddolyn, and I am pleased to meet you. It's also good to see those I have already met."

Gwenddolyn says, "Since Betlind is here, I will give her a break and give her opening speech about the general meeting rules of order."

Gwenddolyn says, "At our 1st Annual Round Table Meeting, we voted to allow non-Emerald Knights to attend and listen in on our offical annual Round Table Meetings and Mid-year Field Reports, with the understanding that interruptions would violate the general rules of meeting order."

Gwenddolyn says, "This includes comments made out loud by non-Emerald Knights during the official business meeting and your cooperation with limiting your actions during the meeting will be greatly appreciated."

Gwenddolyn says, "Once we have ended the Emerald Knight's reports and updates, the floor will be opened to everyone for discussion and questions about the meeting content, and ending the discussion with the topic of the upcoming Velathor experiment at our next Mid-year Field Report and Field Event."

Betlind smiles, revealing the dimples in her cheeks.

Gwenddolyn says, "I am very interested in what others will have to say once the floor is open for discussion with everyone."

Gwenddolyn says, "So first, official Emerald Knight business. I will provide a recap of some related historical information, which reminds us of our purpose, and then my updated report will follow."

Gwenddolyn says, "I will be followed by our Scribe, Emerald Knight Vaddon, and then after he has finished, any other Emerald Knight who has a report or update to share."

Gwenddolyn says, "In 195 BL, the Dark Hand is created in South Ilithi in Adamantia, destroying the land and isolating High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "Just 37 years later, in 158 BL, High Hold is destroyed by its isolation caused by the Dark Hand."

Gwenddolyn says, "Within 2 years, in 156 BL, patrols along the northern Alaudian border report seeing a land of the living dead that stretched southward toward Adamantia and to High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "In my next annual report, I will give the history of High Hold and the many attempts at sieges to take control of this famous Dwarven-built castle, that was first erected over 17 centuries ago."

Gwenddolyn says, "Almost four centuries after the creation of the Dark Hand, historical records show that the Corik's Wall was repaired and defended by the Emerald Knights after their founding in 183 AV and it fell to the Dark Hand in 192 AV."

Gwenddolyn says, "After the Dragon Priest wars ended, Ferdahl Alec of Shard was left with the threat that remained of overwhelming taint from their experiments and magics that blighted the lands and the creatures south of the city."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Ferdahl called for volunteers to help wage a mission to contain and beat back the corruption. The Humans who answered this call to arms were mostly rangers and paladins, who are known as Shadow Clan."

Gwenddolyn says, "This band of men and women fighters took on their mission with such unrelenting dedication that the Emerald Knights still talk about them in modern times."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Humans of Shadow Clan live entirely within the Dark Hand itself, where every moment of their existence is a struggle to fight the creatures within it and most rarely leave until they die."

Gwenddolyn says, "One point of interest is about the child who is the son of the Matron of Shadow Ptera, named Seome."

Gwenddolyn says, "Grimnur continually mentions that he was just a young boy when he went over the wall and folks thought that he had been long dead when he come back with her. Grimnur said, "You see, he was the first child to learn what it is they know."

Gwenddolyn says, "We defintely need to figure out what he meant by that last comment, and learn exactly what it is they know."

Gwenddolyn says, "So many Paladins who have gone missing, and some of them were last known to have gone into the Lost Grounds looking for someone. There has to be a place that leads into another area that we have yet to discover."

Gwenddolyn says, "Many have gone missing as far back as Syal, Csilla and Drelden of the original seven paladins. More recently missing were Sir Beren and Paladin Researcher Oane."

Gwenddolyn says, "Emille the Fist, whose armor, shield and weapon are also missing, along with no body in either her real or fake tomb. So where is she? She must be fighting and needed her armor, shield and weapon."

Gwenddolyn says, "I recently have found some odd ruins strewn around the Lost Grounds, and I am continuing to study them as various archaeological sites. It has gotten quite interesting, and I have come across some intriguing items along the way that require further research."

Gwenddolyn says, "One of them are ruins of a bailey, which seems quite out of place there. A bailey is an entry building that leads into a castle."

Gwenddolyn says, "Morganae's Arm was not a castle. It was a fortified wall, used as a defense to keep the tainted creatures from entering into Ilithi."

Gwenddolyn says, "During that time, there was only one castle in this entire area, and that was High Hold. I suspect that Morganae's Arm was built just outside of High Hold, because that is where most of the fighting took place since they were fighting over control of High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "So was that bailey the original entryway into the renown High Hold? How long ago was that? According to historical records, it was over 254 years ago that Morganae's Arm Fell to the Dark Hand."

Gwenddolyn says, "The bailey is viewable from several of the west and south areas within the Lost Grounds, four to be exact. Two are on the west side, north and west of the dovecote. One is on the southwest corner and the other is in an area in the south part of the Lost Grounds. I am convinced this bailey extended westerly and led to High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "Some other interesting archaelogical items I found in the strewn ruins were several large boulders dwarfed by the size of an old, rusted-out trebuchet."

Gwenddolyn says, "Both trebuchets and both boulders are points of interest that I am continuing to study. I am looking into the possible restoration and repair of both trebuchets."

Gwenddolyn says, "Also an interesting old small dovecote, that was likely used to house doves and pigeons and that sent important messages during the fighting."

Gwenddolyn says, "Other items I found were some old carefully placed caltrops in two rooms north and south of each other, which are spiked traps."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Also two small groupings of burial mounds marked by banners, one on the west side and the other on the east side. Why were the caltrops put nearby the old bailey, to prevent others from getting to the bailey?"

Gwenddolyn says, "I also found an old oak tree, the rusted remains of an old sally-port, an old well, and a squat opening in an old wall, all of which are still under investigation as points of interest."

Gwenddolyn says, "The opening is unique because not only is there a ladder there, but there is also a separate frame, which are clearly two different items."

Elurora softly says, "As long as I don't have to go into the well again."

Gwenddolyn says, "It is not the frame of the ladder, but perhaps it is the frame of an old walkway that had wooden planks which rotted away over time, leaving just the frame."

Betlind says, "We were never closer."

Gwenddolyn says, "I will continue spending some time researching these finds and looking for more items of interest among the ruins."

Gwenddolyn says, "I suggest that other Emerald Knights take the time to look at these remnants of that great battle to see if anyone can discover something that I've missed. Also, remember if you bring non-mustered friends beyond the wall, do not leave them behind or separate them from your group."

Elurora softly says to Betlind, "If it was just you and me, I wouldn't have minded, it was all the elbows and knowing how little some of those folks bathe."

Gwenddolyn says, "And now, Vaddon will give his report, and then he will turn it over to me again as we move on to new developments, which will be followed by any other Emerald Knight's report."

You say to Gwenddolyn, "Thank you."

You enthusiastically exclaim, "Good evening, my fellow Emerald Knights and our esteemed guests!"

You say, "Firstly, a shoutout to the fine folks around Blackthorn Canyon, especially Dorittee. Her wit is so sharp, I'm convinced she could hold the Dark Hand at bay with it and win! Alas, the residents of Blackthron Canyon recent musings haven't unearthed any earth-shattering news, but I will keep my ears open and hopes high."

You depressingly ask, "Now, on to recruitment - or the lack thereof. It seems my personal charm hasn't been enough to lure new blood into our ranks. If anyone's had better luck, do share your secret! We could use a few more brave souls willing to face the Hand with us. Speaking of which, any new members amongst us tonight?"

You say, "That's too bad."

You say, "Anyways."

You say, "Remember those long shifts on the wall last winter? One frigid night, I found solace in a bowl of jerky stew so good it almost made me forget the cold. The next day, I tried to find the cook, but Grimnur brushed me off faster than a snowflake in a blizzard. My quest for the recipe was cut short and forgotten... or so I thought."

You ask, "Spring brought an interesting discovery. I stumbled upon writings on Human Cuisine, featuring the culinary highlights of the Shadow Clan. Their jerky stew, described as a hodgepodge of meats, veggies, grains, and a hunk of lard, is surprisingly tasty and importantly non-poisonous. A culinary bar set so low, yet so reassuring, don't you think?"

You say, "Then there's the famous Wall Bread. Described as a hardy mix of eggs, grains, lard, dried meat, and fruits, it's the ultimate of breads tough and packed with everything you need to battle evil, or at least hunger."

You say, "Curiosity piqued, I went on a culinary crusade, asking everyone about Wall Bread and Jerky Stew. But any mention of Shadow Clan recipes was met with more deflections than a shield in battle. So, my gourmet quest hit a wall."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Corik's?"

You say, "However, I've managed to gather a few recipes that come close to those legendary dishes. Though it's a hot summer night, I invite you to sample these tributes laid out before you."

You say, "Winter....feels like summer to me."

You ask, "Right Hanryu?"

You say, "Great weather we're having."

You say, "Anyways."

You say, "To close, let me echo the words of Ptera, who led the first band of Knights

Hanryu says, "One certainly gets used to it."

You exclaim, "So, grab a bowl of stew, a slice of Wall Bread, and let's eat to our continued fight against the darkness. Good evening, and long live the Emerald Knights!"

You say, "End of report."

Gwenddolyn says, "Well done."

Gwenddolyn says, "And now...."

Gwenddolyn says, "Tonight we are featuring the Elven-Human War. I will be doing trivia and a numbers game for prizes following this short."

Gwenddolyn says, "Sorril, an Elf, was the daughter of Kiernion, who was the leader of the Forest Elves at the time. Sorril fell in love with Kanton, a Human, and later eloped with him and soon after became pregnant with his twin children."

Gwenddolyn says, "Wrong one."

Gwenddolyn says, "So many notes."

Betlind says, "Good, my history on that war is pretty terrible."

Gwenddolyn says, "So picking up where I left off. I am going to repeat this part, as it may become extremely important for us to know this history."

Elurora says to Betlind, "It also depends on who you ask with that one."

Gwenddolyn says, "Morganae's Arm was built by Corik as a forward defensive position south of what is now called Corik's Wall, in the area known as the Lost Grounds. He named this forward defense after the Mountain Queen, hoping she would come to the aid of his city's defense. but she did not and let the city burn instead of coming to help them."

Gwenddolyn says, "Historical records show that the wall was repaired and defended by the Emerald Knights after their founding in 183 and fell to the Dark Hand in 192 AV. An account of the early Knights and the Arm can be found in the The Emerald Chronicles by Geoff Graev in the now accessable library there."

Gwenddolyn says, "Given some recent developments, which Vaddon will be providing information about immediately following, I want to touch briefly on some of the history aboutthe Hounds of Rutilor. They are a group of religious zealots, mostly Clerics and Paladins, who seek to destroy Necromancers wherever they are found."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Hounds have been seen around any area with a proper Justice system, but they act independently of The Inquisition, though both groups do appear to support each other with their similar purpose."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Hounds are an ancient order established in 229 BL to defend against internal threats as well as external. They operated with great effectiveness until 193 BL, when they were wiped out by the Dragon Priests, which was just a year before the fall of Corik's Wall to the Dark Hand."

Gwenddolyn says, "It is no coincidence that the Hounds and the Dark Hand were battling the Dragon Priests within the same year when the DP marched across the lands and Corik's Wall fell along with many other strongholds. Corik's Wall was important, because it was the first defense outside of Highhold, and a major battle ground during the DP wars."

Gwenddolyn says, "In 396 AV, over four centuries later, the order of the Hounds was reestablished. It has never been known who leads them, as their order has been very secretive, and they possess great numbers, resources and power."

Gwenddolyn says, "Is it possible that Chepiso is their leader? I guess time will tell as more is revealed. He has made his purpose clear."

Gwenddolyn says, "Perhaps we are seeing a shift in the way that tNecromancers are being handled by the Hounds because of the rise in sorcerous magic. Which leads me to recall that the last times sorcery was at its highest level, the Guardians made an appearance to shut down magic."

Gwenddolyn says, "In more recent times, we called that the day the magic died, and resurrection was not possible for a very long time. Let's hope we do not see that day ever comes again."

Gwenddolyn says, "After the Dragon Priest wars ended, Ferdahl Alec of Shard was left with the threat that remained of overwhelming taint from their experiments and magics that blighted the lands and the creatures south of the city."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Ferdahl called for volunteers to help wage a mission to contain and beat back the corruption. The Humans who answered this call to arms were mostly rangers and paladins, who are known as Shadow Clan."

Gwenddolyn says, "This band of men and women fighters took on their mission with such unrelenting dedication that the Emerald Knights still talk about them in modern times."

Gwenddolyn says, "I do believe that there is more to this story, and that we are close to discovering a new pathway that will lead us to an undiscovered area beyond the Lost Grounds, which may have the answers that we seek."

Gwenddolyn says, "It is up to us as Emerald Knights to watch for any changes in the area, prevent any further encroachment of corruption beyound these walls, and to continue to search for the missing Paladins."

Gwenddolyn says, "Oddly, that was the same mission the original seven paladins were tasked with, to battle back whatever Syal was fighting, which could very well be nearby."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Another recent discovery made was about the Vela'tohr. Is it possible to remove the taint from the Lost Grounds with this new magic known as the Embrace of the Vela'tohr?"

Gwenddolyn says, "I am very curious about this new discovery, and we have yet to unlock its true potential."

Gwenddolyn says, "At our last Mid-year Field Report meetingk, Huebald agreed to work with a group of Empaths and Clerics to try a few experiments with a large group in the Lost Grounds immediately following our next upcoming Mid-Year Field Report Meeting that will be here and move into the Lost Grounds."

Gwenddolyn says, "I have wondered if the current Vela'thor plants would be able to provide a seedling somehow. Elurora mentioned it could be brought to this side of the wall to tend and grow with the help of several empaths, then moved into the Lost Grounds once it was an adult plant."

Gwenddolyn says, "Now moving on to the next report. Vaddon has an update for us after inquring with the people of Blackthorn Canyon."

Gwenddolyn asks, "I am very curious about this new discovery, and the plan is to have a group of empaths try to grow them in the dovecote, well, and opening to see if they will grow there. Those areas seem to be slightly out of area with the tainted ground, so is it possible?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Following Vaddon's report, he will turn over then floor to other Emerald Knights for reports and then once we open the floor to all for discussion once our official meeting is concluded, we will discuss the Velathor experiment then."

Gwenddolyn says, "Vaddon."

You say to Gwenddolyn, "All I have prepared is some remarks about Chepiso."

You say, "Kind of covered the closed lips of the folks in Blackthorn before the vittles were served."

You say to Gwenddolyn, "I apologize for the miscommunications."

Gwenddolyn says, "Speaking of Chespiso."

Gwenddolyn says, "Do go on."

You say, "Ah...that I am prepapred to dicuss."

You say, "But Betlind was on the front line, so after my report, please jump in."

Gwenddolyn says, "Elurora will follow betlind."

You say, "So here I go."

You say, "Based on my own notes, and notes from others I'm feebly attempting to summarize my understanding and purpose of the individual calling himself Chepiso, who supposedly works with the Hounds of Rutilor. Any additional thoughts you may have are welcome after the meeting adjourns to correct any errors, or ommissions in these collected thoughts."

Betlind says, "I'm afraid I cannot make a report until the chapter is closed, as such I'm afraid I need to depart early and deal with this wild Hound."

Betlind says, "If you'll excuse me. My greatest apologies."

You say, "About eight nights ago, Chepiso, who is generally thought to be a member of the Hounds of Rutilor, shared several compelling thoughts on the gweth across the realms. His messages were fervent calls to action against the Necromancers, urging the citizens to choose between a new dawn ignited by righteous flames or being consumed by the darkness they harbor. He emphasized the need for self-purification and the expulsion of evil forces, specifically targeting those practicing Necromancy."

You say, "Chepiso warned of the impending judgment he would bring, should the townsfolk fail to cleanse themselves of this blight. He expressed concern over the complacency and guilt that currently plague the lands, deeming it complicit in allowing such dark forces to thrive. The urgency in his thoughts was clear. He says it is a time for decisive action against those who twist life and death for sinister purposes, to rid the streets of the stench of decay and restore peace."

You say, "Then four nights ago, Chepiso returned as promised. He battled several people, including Emerald Knight Betlind, eventually resulting in his own death and that of others. Following the initial skirmishes where he attempted to enforce his warnings, a gathering was held out the north gates of Shard. There was much conversation between Chepiso and the populace. Those subsequent conversations with various people in attendance revealed a consistent and intense commitment to his anti-necromancy stance. Engaging in witty banter and provocative questions, Chepiso sought to expose perceived complacency and alliances with necromancers among the assembled community."

You say, "His comments ranged from sarcastic remarks about snacks during speeches to pointed questions about supporting necromancers. Chepiso displayed skepticism toward those who associated with necromancers and engaged in philosophical debates about redemption, emphasizing the need for purging those who protect necromancers."

You say, "Multiple people faced Chepiso's scrutiny, with some responding defensively and others attempting to justify their positions. In a rather confrontational manner, Chepiso challenged the beliefs, alliances, and past actions of those gathered, highlighting his unwavering dedication to the cause of purging necromancy. These interactions added depth to the ongoing narrative, creating tension and intrigue among the assembled crowd."

You say, "So, with that I will wrap up my summary and wish to extend the invitation to correct any misunderstanding of these events."

You say to Gwenddolyn, "End of report."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thank you for that summary."

Elurora says, "Seemed about the same as what I heard."

Gwenddolyn says, "It made his intent clear."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Elurora?"

Elurora says, "What I wanted to talk about isn't the Dark Hand or Corik's well. Or Chepiso."

Elurora says, "It has more to do with my guild. I want to once again try to find out what was so important that they caused Sir Beren to flee into hiding. And maybe find out what the council did with Sir Oane in these past years."

Gwenddolyn says, "I have sent missives to council."

Gwenddolyn says, "They are very tight lipped."

Gwenddolyn says, "Nobody showed up to 2 proposed meetings."

Elurora says, "I am going to be planning a Sit-In at the Paladin guild in Crossing to start out. I will send a letter to the council and the guildleaders before hand to make sure they know why we are there."

Gwenddolyn says, "You are better off in Hib, since that seems to be where the problems started."

Elurora says, "We may not know where Sir Beren is, but we know the journal he found was given to them, and whatever was in it caused them to go after him."

Zalinyar says, "Or Aesry."

Gwenddolyn says, "The paladin guild in hib, was where sir oane and sir beren were before going to the lost grounds."

Zalinyar quietly says, "I'm sorry I know I'm not allowed to speak."

Elurora says, "After the Sit-In, I plan to gather some Paladins and Bards to attempt to evoke memories from the Paladin guild in Crossing, in hopes that either something of Sir Beren remains or perhaps even further back to one of the Seven who helped build the guild."

Gwenddolyn says, "Sir darius was the one behind it, and he left crossings, so I am unsure if that is the right place."

Elurora says, "I am also going to suggest that we, as Paladins, avoid going to Sir Darius as a bit of a stand against what he did."

Gwenddolyn says, "But I know you will bet plenty of support."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Anything else Elurora?"

Gwenddolyn asks, "Does any other emerald knight have anything to report?"

Maltris says, "I have an inquiry."

Elurora says, "That is all for now. I will make sure there are postings when I have a date planned."

Maltris asks, "The one sitting for a bit, sipping hot chocolate, anyone know of her?"

Gwenddolyn asks, "Name?"

Elurora asks, "She is a Necromancer, I believe she calls herself a Philospher?"

Zalinyar says, "Jessalyn or some J name like that."

You ask, "Is she?"

Maltris says, "Confirmed then, she and I had history many many years ago,."

Gwenddolyn says, "I am sure they want to make sure what we are up to."

Elurora says, "She is a Necromancer."

Maltris asks Elurora, "If she is known to you as a necromancer, why did you allow her to stay?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Yes she was expelled from the order of the white rose before I became speaker for being so."

Gwenddolyn says, "Not yet zali."

You say, "Interesting."

Gwenddolyn says, "Meetings are open to everyone, that is what the rules said."

Gwenddolyn says, "Unless we decide to vote to change that."

Elurora says to Maltris, "As a follower of Albreda my path is one of peace as much as I am able. I would prefer to talk to her and try to convince her to follow the path of Sir Briaen, but doing so during a meeting someone else called would be rude."

Gwenddolyn says, "And not allow necromancers."

Maltris asks, "Emerald Knights, allow necromancers?"

You say, "I as well. There is a chance they can be turned from their errant paths."

You say to Maltris, "No."

Elurora says, "Emerald Knights only allow Paladins and Rangers."

Gwenddolyn says, "We would have to vote on it, as they voted everyone could attend."

Gwenddolyn says, "To the meetings'."

Gwenddolyn says, "Not in the emerald knights."

Maltris says, "I would think that everyone meant all, except those that we fought against on the wall."

Gwenddolyn asks, "We took a vote to allow everyone to attend our meetings, is there a motion on the table to disallow necromancers from being included as everyone?"

Maltris says, "I make said motion."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Is there a second?"

Hanryu says, "Yes."

Elurora asks, "I would ask how we plan to make them leave if they don't want to?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Vote for emerald knights, aloud."

Gwenddolyn says, "I vote to disallow them at our meetings."

Elurora says, "I cannot vote without an answer to my question."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Discussion then?"

Maltris says to Elurora, "No one was born into necromancy, it was a choice."

Maltris says, "We ask them to leave..."

Elurora says to Maltris, "I never said otherwise."

Elurora asks, "Of course, but if they don't?"

Maltris says, "Failure results in consequence."

Gwenddolyn says, "We could move our meetings back to the meeting room."

Gwenddolyn says, "Then it will be upheld as I will boot them from the meeting without fighting."

Elurora says, "I do not feel comfortable resorting to violence to make someone leave a meeting, but if others wish to, I will not stand in their way."

Gwenddolyn says, "I suggest we move them back after voting on the ruling on the table."

Gwenddolyn says, "We can make the motion be this."

Elurora says, "I would accept moving to the meeting room to allow us the ability to usher them out peacefully."

Gwenddolyn says, "Disallow necromancers from attending official meetings and move the meetings to the meeting hall to enforce it."

You say, "Second to Elurora's motion."

Gwenddolyn says, "I vote aye."

Hanryu says, "I don't care either way where we have the meetings."

Gwenddolyn says, "Votes please."

Elurora says, "I vote yes as well."

Maltris says, "Aye."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Vaddon?"

You say, "I vote yes."

You say, "To the motion to move meeting."

Gwenddolyn says, "Unanimous then, motion passes."

Elurora says, "It is a good solution, I think."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Moving on, does any other emerald knight have a report?"

Gwenddolyn says, "I then officially open the floor to all."

Gwenddolyn says, "Huebald is next."

Elurora quietly says to you, "This bread is surprisingly good, hearty and nice on a winter day."

Gwenddolyn says, "I am curious about what Huebald has planned."

Huebald says, "Well, I've not much to report on at this time except that I've been collectin' the names of interested folks to join us beyond the wall."

You say, "Excellent news."

Gwenddolyn asks, "How many so far?"

You say, "Kethrai did some advance work on this issue. You may want to speak to him."

Huebald says to Gwenddolyn, "A half dozen or so committed so far, more have expressed interest, but they aren't sure they'll be able to attend the meetin' here."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thank you vaddon, I know you need to leave."

.....Notes to be added by others. Ran out of ink in inkwell.

~~Prepared and humbly submitted by Scribe Vaddon

.....Following Scribe Vaddon's departure, Emerald Knight Gwenddolyn reluctantly took over his scribing duties, which was very difficult to juggle presiding over a meeting while scribbling notes of what everyone said, and what the notes actually looked like, scribbling. Making an additional note to self to convince a back up scribe to take notes in case of Vaddon's absence.

You rub your hands together.

Vaddon says, "Kethrai did some advance work on this issue. You may want to speak to him."

Brent reaches up to the rack overhead for a tankard and grins as he draws on the tap to fill it. Handing it to you with a nod, he says, "On the house, sister."

You nod to Vaddon.

Huebald says to you, "A half dozen or so committed so far, more have expressed interest, but they aren't sure they'll be able to attend the meetin' here."

You say, "Thank you vaddon, I know you need to leave."

Vaddon nods.

Vaddon waves.

Emerald Knight Vaddon strides out.

You say, "That is fine, we will leave from here."

You say, "They can meet outside the wall, a couple paces sw and south of here."

  • Chepiso was smote by Rutilor!

Elurora says to Huebald, "Let me know if I can be of help with BoT, maybe we can make an area a bit safer for the Empaths."

Vaerek chuckles.

Hanryu chuckles.

You applaud.

Hanryu says, "Well that's fun."

Elurora says, "I guess his God wasn't so happy with him."

Huebald nods to Elurora.

Your mind hears Gwenddolyn thinking, "[General]" "so he was a fake?"

You chuckle.

Vaerek raises his hand.

You nod to Vaerek.

You say, "Huebald, that is great news."

You say, "Keep up the good work."

Huebald smiles.

Huebald nods.

You say, "I am looking forward to it."

Vaerek says, "I just wanted to say that I enjoyed this meeting. It was my first."

Elurora smiles at Vaerek.

Mistanna nods at Vaerek, obviously agreeing with his views.

You say, "You are welcome to attend."

Vaerek says, "If you need any help with gates for the new location or locations let me know."

You say, "Thank you, I will take you up on that."

Vaerek says, "I'll lend a hand for travel for future meetings."

Elurora beams at Vaerek!

You let out a hearty cheer for Vaerek!

Elurora says to Vaerek, "That is very kind of you."

You let out a hearty cheer for Mistanna!

Huebald raises his hand.

You nod to Huebald.

Huebald asks, "Question since the vote to change where the meetin's are bein' held. Will that make it harder for folks who aren't Emerald Knights to attend?"

Elurora shakes her head at Huebald.

You say, "We will arrange for a moongate from the meeting to outside the wall."

You say, "No issues there."

Huebald nods.

You ask, "Does anyone else have anything else to add?"

Elurora says to Huebald, "Not that I'm aware of anyway."

You ask, "Anyone else?"

You say, "If not, the meeting is adjourned."

Maltris nods to you.

Maltris says, "Fine meeting."

You say, "Thank you."

Hanryu raises his hand in a quick salute.

You wave.

Hanryu says, "Safe paths all."

Hunter Hanryu pads out.

~~Submitted by my now very sore hand, Emerald Knight Gwenddolyn.

Meeting on the 449th year, 32nd day since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer  

Sixth Annual Emerald Knights' Meeting held on the 32nd day 449 years since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer in Shard Great Tower, Hall of the Hunt.

Those in attendance included; Primal Lady Zalinyar, Stalwart Seydin, Hunter Hanryu, Ryeka, Philomath Miskton, Glade Seeker Rest, Wizard Efrate, Druid Zyros, Squire Cheyee, Truthseeker Elurora, Light of the World Gwenddolyn, Emerald Knight Vaddon

My notes of the meeting follows;

Gwenddolyn says, "I am officially calling this Sixth Annual Round Table Meeting to order. I ask for no interruptons so that we can get through the formal meeting quickly."

Gwenddolyn says, "Following my historical presentation will be my report about the vela'thor experiment that Huebald and the Empaths did in the Lost Grounds following the most recent Midyear Field Report."

Gwenddolyn says, "Then our Scribe, Emerald Knight Vaddon, will give his report, followed by any other Emerald Knight who has a report."

Gwenddolyn says, "Then I will open the floor for discussion with everyone once the Emerald Knights have completed presenting reports."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Annual Round Table Meetings are the proper forum to bring to the table any ideas, issues and motions that need voting on during the Emerald Knight reports."

Gwenddolyn says, "There was an issue that was brought to my attention by an Emerald Knight since the last Annual Round Table Meeting that I will address during the reports, given the knight is present."

Gwenddolyn says, "For the historical presentation, I will repeat my summary of "A Tale of High Hold", as told by the Dwarven Bard Hrakisi Viikelen, so it will be documented into the meeting notes for future reference."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Dwarven keep of High Hold is a part of legend, and has been known by many names: High Hold the Indestructible, High Hold the Untakeable, the Fortress That Could Not Fall."

Gwenddolyn says, "Built many centuries ago to the south of Ilithi, High Hold was part city and part fortress."

Gwenddolyn says, "It clung to the rockface of some of the highest and sharpest points of the mountain range in the northernmost tips of the Hiimarhand Shel, easily the most imposing and staggering mountain range in all Kermoria."

Gwenddolyn says, "There were no mountain roads leading to High Hold, and access to the fortress was solely through an intricate and elaborate series of lifts."

Gwenddolyn says, "It possessed gargantuan walls built by Dwarven ingenuity and engineering, molded from the mountain landscape."

Gwenddolyn says, "The fortress of High Hold was ancient, and was built during the same general time as the Sana'ati Dyaus Drui'tas Fortress of the Elves. One ruled from a mountain keep of rock and stone and the other from a fortress of the mightiest and most ancient tree, surrounded by sacred forests."

Gwenddolyn says, "During a time when the continent was split between the rule of the Elves and the Dwarves, High Hold was a true center of power on the continent."

Gwenddolyn says, "As Elven civilization spread out across Kermoria, with the Sana'ati Dyaus Drui'tas as its base, Dwarven civilization likewise spread out, with High Hold as its base."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Dwarves expanded into the many other mountain ranges of Kermoria. Dwarven rule extended from the Gemfire Mountains surrounding the Velaka Desert, down through the lands we now know as Forfedhdar, and curved southeast to encompass High Hold and what would be later known as Adamantia."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Elves ruled everything else. So the two races warred frequently, each attempting to disrupt the even divide of power on the continent, though neither gained any lasting upper hand and the wars changed little."

Gwenddolyn says, "Then was the coming of the other races. Humans and Halflings migrated from the west and S'Kra Mur came from the east."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Humans gathered around the current border between Zoluren and Therengia, very close to Throne City, the future capital of the Empire."

Gwenddolyn says, "The S'Kra Mur split into two main groups; one journeying to the north to what is currently Muspari, and one to the south that would become the Sraan T'lar, which would become located on and near the lands belonging to Adamantia."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Dwarven Kingdom spread across the entire western side of Kermoria, and High Hold was at the very southernmost part of it. The argument went that the kingdom could not be ruled effectively with so isolated a capital."

Gwenddolyn says, "There was a push for greater significance to be given to the other major cities of the Dwarves, such as Kwarlog and Garnedhren, and there were other reasons for this fracturing."

Gwenddolyn says, "It used be one unified Dwarven Kingdom to stand opposed to one unified Elven Kingdom. But Humans were gaining a greater prominence in the north by expanding their territory."

Gwenddolyn says, "The hostile and arrogant nature of the Elves quickly alienated the Humans, and so they soon found themselves surrounded by enemies, the Humans to the north, and the Dwarves to the west and south."

Gwenddolyn says, "But the Dwarven schism found themselves splitting into four main groups; the Iron Kingdom of the DragonSpine Mountains, the Kingdom of Kwarlog in the Arncharn and Himineldar Shel, Rendstone in the Journelai Mountains; and Adamantia in the Hiimarhand Shel."

Gwenddolyn says, "A key turning point was the betrayal of Morganae, turning against the Dwarves that had taken her people in under a flag of truce. Through her treachery, she managed to secure the important city of Garnedhren."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Iron Kingdom had fallen, which allowed the Elves to absorb the lands that would later be called Southern Ilithi. It isolated Adamantia from the rest of the Dwarven lands."

Gwenddolyn says, "Adamantia and High Hold, played a major part in the great Elven-Human War, since it was in close proximity to both the Elven Mountain and Forest Clans."

Gwenddolyn says, "Joining on the Human side caused the Dwarves' hostilities with the Elves to increase drastically, and some of the fiercest fighting of the ten year war took place along their border."

Gwenddolyn says, "Several times the Elves and S'Kra Mur organized raids against High Hold itself, hoping to infiltrate the fortress, but all such attempts ended in disaster."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Dwarves of Adamantia were the strongest supporters of Elven reparations after the wars ended. High Hold's shadow lay across the land, and dominated the Elves after their defeat, and earned its status as an impregnable fortress."

Gwenddolyn says, "Not long after the Elven-Human War's resolution, a Human man was born in the Ram Clan territory to the north. Akroeg became the Chief of the Ram Clan, which was the birth of the Seven Star Empire."

Gwenddolyn says, "Akroeg and his Emperor successors sought to rule all of Kermoria. While the Elves and Dwarves, in their period of ruling, had brought some semblance of balance to the continent. But Akroeg wanted it all, as Human greed is legendary."

Gwenddolyn says, "Even some of the Dwarven lands acceded to his wishes and were absorbed into the Seven Star Empire. But Adamantia stood up to the Human tyranny, as a proud bastion of Dwarven history, tradition, and strength."

Gwenddolyn says, "In time, the Emperors truly did conquer most of this continent, from the Reshal Sea to the western boundaries. The Empire gained more and more land, and further increased its military strength."

Gwenddolyn says, "But High Hold still stood strong. The Elves, now members of the Empire, were more than willing to encourage the attempts at military conquest of Adamantia, and to participate vigorously when such attempts came about."

Gwenddolyn says, "Though the Empire did battle with the Dwarves several times, the first major offensive came during the reign of Emperor Ringth, who devoted massive portions of the Imperial forces to a full-scale invasion of Adamantia."

Gwenddolyn says, "Since There was no way the Dwarves could ever hope to stop such a thing, being far too outnumbered, they abandoned the surrounding Adamantian land, and holed themselves up inside their fortress of High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "And Emperor Ringth conquered all of Adamantia, and then attacked High Hold itself. His forces were battered away from the fortress with embarrassing ease. He could not even scratch it."

Gwenddolyn says, "This prompted him to dispatch diplomatic messengers, to deliver a message to the Adamantian King that he had a crown but no land to rule since Adamantia was no more. It would only be a matter of time before High Hold falls, so the Dwarves should simply surrender."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Adamantian King proclaimed, High Hold will never surrender. This is our land and we are Dwarves. We are as strong as the mountains themselves, and we will last here for an eternity. This is High Hold the Untakeable. This is the Fortress That Cannot Fall."

Gwenddolyn says, "The Imperial envoys were sent back to their master, their mission a failure. Ringth responded to the challenge of the Adamantian King by placing a siege upon the fortress that lasted twenty years."

Gwenddolyn says, "When the reign began of the next Dwarven Emperor, Thvasvadh, the Great Siege of High Hold was at last lifted."

Gwenddolyn says, "It was more than a century before the Empire acknowledged High Hold's presence again. Until the reign of Emperor Hresoch, whose Dwarven family was an old one from Kwarlog."

Gwenddolyn says, "He dispatched a team of Dwarven dignitaries to High Hold, attempting to convince them to join the Empire, as the other Dwarves had done, but High Hold sent them back."

Gwenddolyn says, "Forty years later, an arrogant young Human Emperor named Hermothius placed another siege on High Hold with aggressive offensives against the fortress. When Hermothius died in a battle, his successor, Theksaal II, ended the second siege on High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "Despite their best efforts, the Imperials were humiliated by defeat each time they attacked High Hold or attempted to besiege it. The fortress continually lived up to its reputation of being unconquerable."

Gwenddolyn says, "Not too long after the fall of the Seven Star Empire, a new Empire rose to prominence in Kermoria called the Empire of the Dragon."

Gwenddolyn says, "Under the leadership of Dzree, the Dragon Priests cut a bloody swath across the continent conquering each land. Ilithi was the first land to fall, followed by Zoluren, Therengia, Forfedhdar, Velaka, and Reshalia."

Gwenddolyn says, "But High Hold remained one of the few places to withstand the brutal attacks of the Dragon Priests."

Gwenddolyn says, "Then the Dragon Priests devised a new method of siege. The Dark Hand was named for the corruption and plague they instilled into the land, turning the earth vile and evil. They conducted their foulest experiments there and the Dwarves were powerless to stop it."

Gwenddolyn says, "The once beautiful lands of Adamantia and Southern Ilithi had been turned putrid, and High Hold was right at the center of it all. They lasted as long as they could, fighting the rotting lands around them valiantly. But the people were finally besieged in such a way that they knew would be their end."

Gwenddolyn says, "The once pristine waters had turned to noxious poisons. Where game was once plentiful, now there were only monsters, whose meats would make a man ill."

Gwenddolyn says, "Healing herbs were transformed into deadly weeds that would attempt to kill a man that approached them. Eating them would fill the body with disease and acids."

Gwenddolyn says, "A side note about this, is that healing herbs which are not tainted have started growing in the Lost Grounds again. Our next Field Report will include updates about what herbs, if any, can be found growing there by foraging."

Gwenddolyn says, "I want the following locations to be tested, taking seasonal changes into consideration as some of them can only be found in specific seasons. Also forage in other areas of the Lost Grounds besides what I list."

Gwenddolyn says, "In the dovecote, georin grass, blue and red flowers can be found. In the NE area near a trebuchet, georin grass, ichor root, riolur leaves, blue and red flowers can be found."

Gwenddolyn says, "Getting back to the Dwarven Bard's account about the destruction of High Hold. He wrote that the mountains themselves were transforming into evil things, being shaped by the corrupt land around them."

Gwenddolyn says, "After several decades, the fortress of High Hold was destroyed by the Dark Hand. It is a wretched, ghostly place now, truly a part of the loathsome lands that consumed it."

Gwenddolyn says, "Then he ends with this mysterious comment, "Those who enter the Dark Hand would do well to stay clear of the once mighty fortress."

Gwenddolyn says, "So if High Hold was truly destroyed, then why would it need to be avoided? It makes me wonder if they knew there was something there that needed to be avoided, and makes me more determined to find what lies beyond the old bailey. Most likely a rockface with a lift obscured by the fog."

Gwenddolyn says, "Moving on to my investigation of the odd ruins in the Lost Grounds, spending significant time scouting the area taking extensive notes, and the continued study of some intriguing items that require further research."

Gwenddolyn says, "One of them are ruins of a bailey, which seems quite out of place there. A bailey is an entry building that leads into a castle."

Gwenddolyn says, "Morganae's Arm was not a castle. It was a fortified wall, used as a defense to keep the tainted creatures from entering into Ilithi."

Gwenddolyn says, "During that time, Morganae's Arm would have been built just outside of High Hold, because that is where all of the fighting took place, since they were fighting over control of High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "So that bailey is likely an entryway that leads to the renown High Hold lifts. How long ago was that? According to historical records, it was over 254 years ago that Morganae's Arm fell to the Dark Hand."

Gwenddolyn says, "The bailey is viewable in areas to the west and south, four to be exact. Two are on the west side, just north and west of the dovecote. One is in the southwest corner and the other is directly east from there. I am convinced this bailey extended southwesterly and led to High Hold."

Gwenddolyn says, "Once inside the old bailey, a series of lifts would likely be found and used to climb the rock face of the Hiimarhand Shel, rising to High Hold above. The dense fog that obscures the Lost Grounds conceals the view of this once spectacular fortress."

Gwenddolyn says, "Some other interesting archaelogical items that I found strewn in the ruins were several large boulders dwarfed by the size of the old, rusted-out trebuchet, one of two rusted-out trebuchets in need of repair."

Gwenddolyn says, "Barely clinging by one end to the rather ill-wrought siege engine, the heavy sling dangles to the ground like a giant razor strap. Once used to break down large walls, this old trebuchet now lies in total disrepair, its massive lever-arm nearly rotted away."

Gwenddolyn says, "Both trebuchets and several boulders are points of interest that I continue to study. I am looking into the possible restoration and repair of the trebuchets, but I am still awaiting word on the delivery of the materials needed to repair them."

Gwenddolyn says, "I also found some old caltrops in two areas located north and south of each other, and also two small groupings of burial mounds marked with banners, one on the west side and the other on the east side."

Gwenddolyn says, "I also wonder if the banners were pointing the way to High Hold, where they stood in battle, since spiked traps were strategically placed near places where an old bailey can be seen."

Gwenddolyn says, "I also found an old oak tree, the rusted remains of an old sally-port, an old well, a small dovecote, and a squat opening in an old wall, all of which are still under investigation as points of interest."

Gwenddolyn says, "The opening is unique because not only is there a ladder there, but there is also a separate frame of something, which are clearly two different items."

Gwenddolyn says, "I will continue to spend more time there researching these while looking for more items of interest within the ruins."

Gwenddolyn says, "I suggest that other Emerald Knights take the time to look at these remnants of that great battle, to see if anyone can discover something that I've missed."

Gwenddolyn says, "Also, remember if you bring non-mustered in friends beyond the wall, do not leave them behind or separate them from your group."

Gwenddolyn says, "Moving on with an interesting encounter that an old comrade of mine from the Crossing Defense Legion, Sir Glemm. whom I served alongside during the Sorrow War."

Gwenddolyn says, "I will end my report with some important highlights of a meeting Sir Glemm and Penderrin had with Paladin Researcher Oane that describe our mission as Emerald Knights."

Gwenddolyn says, "They had received orders from a Council messenger of Guildleader Darius, with official orders for Oane's arrest for treason. Though they did not have him arrested at that time, their conversation was right before Oane's disappearance."

Gwenddolyn says, "Some interesting incidents that also occurred during that time was that Oane argued with Darius shortly before his disappearance. He had discovered Darius' complicity with stolen artifacts, specifically an artifact that he was appraising for the brother of the lead investigator for the Gemstone Murders, who had been assigned by the Baron."

Gwenddolyn says, "It was no coincidence that she was Darius' girlfriend, while under the Baron's employ, which was the likely the reason the Paladin Guild removed him as Crossing Guildleader, for his complicity with the artifacts that had been stolen from Terald's tent during the Theren Fest."

Gwenddolyn says, "So they put Darius in charge of hiding the truths about Emille's Tomb and Drelden's journal, the journal which Sir Beren found and then went missing, and that Oane found and who also went missing."

Gwenddolyn says, "There were a council member and the council's scribe present during most of Oane's tomb investigation, which was the same scribe that Oane used to send missives about the artifacts, so it was clear that Darius knew everything about it too."

Gwenddolyn says, "Given the details about the artifact in Oane's letters to the Worthingtons, it was clear that the item in question was in fact one of the missing Silver Key of Artifacts, called the Talisman of Demetrios. It was a pendant that fit into a set of specialized armor, which would activate some kind of power."

Gwenddolyn says, "This was discovered by Zalinyar during our investigation with the Researcher's Conclave. They were given clues to a few missing artifacts to search for, and Vaddon and Zalinyar also discovered the The Merchant Magician Borrugar Steadfoot's Chimes of Disruption on the North Road south of Kaerna, which had been placed there to keep the perpetual invasions from Darkstone and Kaerna from reaching further to Crossing."

Gwenddolyn says, "Getting back to the conversation Sir Glemm had with Oane, Oane explained that long ago, the Immortals would choose champions. They were the earliest paladins, but they were no't organized, even though they tried to organize, it never lasted because of ego and corruption."

Gwenddolyn says, "They were not like the paladins of today. They were champions of the Immortals. Not just Rutilor or Chadatru, but all of the Immortals."

Gwenddolyn says, "Oane said that the first organization to succeed was called the Hounds of Rutilor, very different than the current organization. But they failed and were slain to the last man."

Gwenddolyn says, "They were true to their calling, and were paladins and clerics dedicated to opposing Dzree and the Dragon Priests."

Gwenddolyn says, "This was confirmed by Commander Fenhalut himself, who told Penderrin, that was why they choose to remain there. The creatures beyond the wall are the creations of the Dragon Priests, monstrousties that exist to serve the World Dragon."

Gwenddolyn says, "Oane went on to say that Syal was one of the chosen, called upon by the Immortals as their champion. He did what none of the others could do."

Gwenddolyn says, "He found six others like himself, and formed a successful order. Depsite their small size, they fought the Dragon Priests and the monstrousities they created tirelessly."

Gwenddolyn says, "Syal created a code of honor, and taught those who would listen what it meant to be a paladin. And when he could, he recruited more that had felt the touch of the Immortals."

Gwenddolyn says, "Oane continued, "But then the Dragon Priests created many monstrousities, the Adan'f, the creatures of the Dark Hand, and worse, I fear, far worse. I very much fear that they drew the attention of something else."

Gwenddolyn says, "He commented, "Much like the necromancers recently did. A great evil fell across the lands. The nature of which I know not, save that it drew the attention and wrath of the Immortals themselves."

Gwenddolyn says, "Syal and his six chosen followers were charged with defeating this darkness. I know that they succeeded. This too is also recorded, by something known as the Bonding."

Gwenddolyn says, "Syal sacrificed himself, precisely so that his six companions could defeat this thing, and unite the paladins."

Gwenddolyn says, "But nobody knows exactly what this Bonding was, or what it means."

Gwenddolyn says, "And the dreams, Hraige wrote of them. He spoke of dreams where he saw Syal fighting alone against hordes of undead, alone and without help."

Gwenddolyn says, "Oane said that he was having the same dreams himself. Only it was not undead that he fights. Not undead, but twisted, evil creatures. He saw the creatures Syal fights, and they are we."

Gwenddolyn says, "So my interpretation is that WE means that it consumes or binds with other souls becoming they or we, as some kind of agreement."

Gwenddolyn says, "Shortly after speaking to Oane, Penderrin spoke with Commander Fenhalut, who said that the creatures are blasphemies, and exist to destroy that which the Immortals have created. Our job is clear and unconfused by politics."

Gwenddolyn says, "Commander Fenhalut stated that they think ill of us Emerald Knights because we do not trouble ourselves with politics or noble morality. There is a job to be done, and we do it. The Council may not approve, but we are not part of their Council and do not serve them. We serve the Immortals, and our own honor, free from political demands."

Gwenddolyn says, "Commander Fenhalut said that he felt like he was being watched a lot and extremely disturbing if the implications are followed. Many of the Knights report similar feelings of unease or malice, often simultaneously, which does not bode well. A threat apparently looms over us all."

Gwenddolyn says, "Sir Beren was last seen within the Lost Grounds, which is significant."

Gwenddolyn says, "Commander Fenhalut said that You realize what will happen if you DO find out the Council is hiding something. You may very well destroy the guild."

Gwenddolyn says, "So now you see why I am spending more time doing my wall duties and asking Commander Fenhalut questions."

Gwenddolyn says, "And that is the end of my report and historical accounts. I will now turn the floor over to our Scribe, Emerald Knight Vaddon, who will then open the floor for all other Emerald Knights, including ideas, issues and motions."

You say, "I fear my news is limited as well."

You say, "I continue to spend time on the wall and in Blackthorn Canyon. No new reports from the folks that live there to report tonight. They do seem to be more comfortable with me roaming around and I hope that will loosen their tongues to be more open in the future."

You say, "My studies have been lacking as well."

You say, "Spending too much time at Brent's I fear."

You say, "Did learn some new songs."

You say, "But that can wait."

You say, "End of my limited report."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Does any other Emerald Knight have anything to report?"

Gwenddolyn says, "Betlind wanted to put a motion on the floor, but she is not present."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Does Elurora have any updates?"

Elurora says, "There is still no movement from Council in terms of my Sit-Ins."

Gwenddolyn says, "I had hoped part of the empath group would come and report their findings from the vela'thor experiment."

Gwenddolyn says, "But I can give a short summary."

Gwenddolyn says, "They successfully managed a thicket of vela'thor that they could maintain."

Gwenddolyn says, "For a very long time, as long as someone was there to heal them."

Gwenddolyn says, "It may take some doing, but trying to secure an actual vela'thor plant to seed there would be spectacular."

Gwenddolyn says, "It could heal the lost grounds from the taint."

Gwenddolyn says, "If we can get rid of the mud and fog, we may be able to find other clues."

Gwenddolyn says, "Now does anyone else have anything to add? The floor is open."

Efrate says, "Do any of the distressing events ye reported on coincide with the sudden disturbances in mana of all spellcasting? I am searching for clues trying to figure out what and when it all happened, what connections there may be and such."

Gwenddolyn says, "No, they date back to the times when the dragon priests created foul creatures."

Gwenddolyn says, "The mana disriptions came more recently."

Ryeka says, "More often lately when I cast I do feel a tremendous violent energy."

Ryeka says, "So I think we are getting close to- something."

Efrate says, "Aye trying to pinpoint a when exactly, and then look around that time frame."

Gwenddolyn says, "I see flecks of black in my holy mana, definite corruption within the mana."

Rest says, "It's been a thing for as long as I've know what magic is."

Gwenddolyn says, "The last time magic was banned, it was not good, no raising."

Efrate says, "I've been around for gorbesh, sorrow, and much more, and just recently has it been problematic, and seems to be increasing."

Gwenddolyn says, "It all went back to stolen artifacts that they used."

Rest asks, "Is it problematic?"

Rest says, "I mean, it is weird, sure."

Miskton says, "For a while it was just strange sensations. Now it's more angry and violent."

Gwenddolyn says, "Exactly why we are watching the wall closely."

Efrate says, "Aye when immutable laws of magic suddenly start to change its problematic. For now its contained, but its escalating."

Gwenddolyn says, "There is something worse there, ocular in nature."

Rest says, "That makes sense, coming from a perspective where its always been mutable, because I know nothing, yanno, yeah."

Ryeka says, "I have been spending a lot of time hunting adan'f. The first time I noticed, I was hunting frostcrones. But it can't be just that because I get strange sensations while casting in temples too."

Gwenddolyn says, "Interesting."

Zyros says, "Like a child, walking into the abyss. Something is experimenting into worlds it ought not."

Gwenddolyn says, "The increase in corruption is of great concern."

Rest says, "I felt like the emotions were related to the spells I cast, violent for debilitation, firey for targetting and so on."

Rest says, "Never paid it that much mind though, so I might be wrong."

Efrate says, "Its everywhere from where I can tell, from sky giants at least to the ice caves down here, into Forfedor and all throughout the mainland."

Gwenddolyn asks, "Does anyone else have anything to add?"

Gwenddolyn says, "I ask that everyone go assess the area during various seasons to determine what is forageable there."

Gwenddolyn says, "And submit your reports at the mid year field report."

Gwenddolyn says, "On that note, this meeting is over."

Gwenddolyn says, "Thank you for coming."

Hanryu says, "Safe paths everyone."

Meeting on the 450th year, 24th day since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer  

Seventh Annual Emerald Knights' Meeting held on the 24th day, 450 years since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer in the Shard Great Tower, Hall of the Hunt.

Those in attendance included; Hanryu, Ryeka, Sarugar, Buzan, Eskila, Gwenddolyn.

With no scribe in attendance, my messily scribbled meeting minutes, while I was speaking, were as follows;

You say, "I am officially calling this Seventh Annual Round Table Meeting to order. I ask for no interruptons so that we can get through the formal meeting quickly."

You say, "Interruptions during the official meeting by non-Emerald Knights will cause me to have to expel anyone causing the disruption, which I will not hesitate to do."

You say, "Furthermore, Necromancers are not allowed to attend any official meeting of the Emerald Knights without acceptions, as recorded during a prior Round Table vote."

You say, "Following my historical presentation will be my report about the status of foraging in the Lost Grounds, which I presented at the most recent Midyear Field Report."

You say, "Then our Scribe, Emerald Knight Vaddon, will give his report, followed by any other Emerald Knight who has a report."

You say, "Since he is not here we will skip him."

You say, "The Annual Round Table Meetings are the proper forum to bring to the table any ideas, issues and motions that need voting on during the Emerald Knight reports."

You say, "There was an issue that was brought to my attention by an Emerald Knight since the last Annual Round Table Meeting that I will address during the reports, given that knight is present to make a motion on the floor for discussion and bring the issue to the table for a vote."

You say, "But that knight is not here."

You say, "When the official Emerald Knight business has concluded, I will open the floor for discussion with everyone once the Emerald Knights have completed presenting reports and voting."

You say, "For the historical presentation, I will repeat my summary of the history portion I presented at the last Midyear Field Report, so it will be documented into the meeting notes for future reference."

You say, "Let's start with..."

You say, "Corik the Black Cloud constructed the city of Shard with with Queen Morganae. He also built a stone wall in 180 BL to keep back the Dark Hand, where us Emerald Knights still stand watch today."

You say, "Following his exile from Ilithi, Corik assisted Stone Clan in dealing with The Biter."

You say, "Ferdahl Alec the Phoenix was the son of the Ferdahl Corik who preceeded him. He ruled the Elotheans beginning in 50 BL."

You say, "He reunited the Elothean houses during the time of the Dragon Priest Empire and eventually kicked the Dragon Priests out of Ilithi, sending the DP hierarchy into chaos."

You say, "During his reign, he rebuilt Shard, he established the Gondola with the help of Queen Morganae and eventually expelled the Dragon Priests out of Ilithi."

You say, "I must of course, also mention that he created the Emerald Knights, after announcing a competition of which was won by Ptera, and who became their first leader."

You say, "There has been mention that Ptera and Alec were lovers and that Ptera's son Seome is Alec's son, making Seome a half brother to Kukalakai, and the grandson of Corik the Black Cloud."

You say, "Seome disappeared after he went into the Dark Hand looking for his mother Ptera, who fled there after being stripped of her Commandership."

You say, "Seome and Ptera are some of the many who have gone missing there. Most recently, Sir Beren, and also Paladin Researcher Oane."

You say, "Oane went missing somewhere near the west gate of Shard while he was heading for Corik's Wall to find Sir Beren, after discovering Sir Drelden's journal among Sir Beren's belongings."

You say, "Getting back to the history, after Ferdahl Alec died, the Three declared a twenty-five year period of mourning."

You say, "He was succeeded by his daughter Kukalakai, known as the Black-Eyes, making her the grand daughter of Corik the Black Cloud, who was Alec's father. Sadly, she was slain by the Outcasts under orders from King Raenilar during the Outcast War."

You say, "The Dragon Priests of Dzree's sect were responsible for the creation of many tainted creatures, such as the Adan'f, which made up a a sizeable portion of their military power, and led by Blood General Vigther."

You say, "The Dragon Priest Empire also established the Dark Hand, a corrupted area of land that became a breeding ground for such many necromantic and sorcerous experiments performed on S'Kra Mur and Gor'Togs, with the intention of purifying them. Which leads many to believe the Adan'f were created from them."

You sigh deeply.

You say, "Though Dzree was ultimately defeated, the Dragon Priest Empire rose again briefly under Hhrsaraa, who claimed to be a daughter of Dzree and gave herself the title Dragon Priest Empress. The Empire fell to disorganized chaos once again when Hhrsaraa was killed."

You say, "The primary belief held by the Sect of Dzree was that only living sacrifices would honor and appease the World Dragon, and that the purpose of the sacrifices were to wake the Dragon, bring about the end of the world, so those that woke the Dragon would live and inherit the land."

You say, "Dzree's sect began forming shortly before she assassinated her former mentor, Sh'kial in 205 BL. However, she took the harmless fanatical beliefs of Sh'kial and twisted them down a darker path of Human and Elven sacrifice."

You say, "The first Dragon Priest War started about 203 BL. After proclaiming herself High Priestess, her sect became known as the Dragon Priest Empire by conquering most of the Five Provinces. She reigned from approximately 193 BL until year 1 BL until her death."

You say, "Her Empire completely destroyed the Bard's guild and decimated nearly all of the Ru'atin Peri'el. Dzree's hatred of Bards was caused by her failure to pass the entry examination for the Ru'atin during her youth."

You say, "The Ru'atin Peri'el was a Sisterhood formed by High Priest of Peri'el Maligen Shanati in Reshalia, after the first Reshalian King, Sarkhhl Smoneh, ordered their creation becauser he was told by a High Priest of Hav'roth that the earthquakes plaguing Reshalia were due to the World Dragon."

You say, "Comprised of mostly female S'Kra Mur Clerics and Bards, and usually referred to as the Sisters, Daughters or Singers of Peri'el. The group's purpose is to aid Peri'el with her eternal task of keeping the World Dragon asleep."

You say, "In year 0, Neithrel vanishes and open warfare among DP factions in Qi'Reshalia begins."

You say, "The last DP faction was conquered in 22 AV and merchant families formed the new ruling council of Qi'Reshalia."

You say, "During his reign, Alec rebuilt Shard and established the Gondola in 20 AV, with the help of Queen Morganae of the Mountain Elves."

You say, "After Shard was cut off from the world in 250 AV, Morganae's daughter was murdered in a marriage dispute."

You say, "In 256 AV, the Mage of Storms returned to Shard and was killed. His stormcloud remains over Dertalriosh Endaertheal'a, now known as Stormwill Tower."

You say, "Moving on to history of the Ocular. The Endian Nation was formed by the Luethra in the First Age."

You say, "It spanned the Albarian continent, was ruled by Azhjam, and was seated at Albabriddlaen. These years were also a formative period for the Luethran justice system."

You say, "During the Luethran Second Age, the Endian Nation turned outward, allying with the Elves, and later the Gnomes."

You say, "These close ties with their northen neighbors would lead to intermittent hostilities with the Adamantia, who blockaded the northern trade routes into Kermoria."

You say, "With northern trade declining, the Luethrans turned their attentions south to the newly arrived gnomes, including a lasting treaty with the Cip'uja tribe."

You say, "It was during this time, the Luethrans also turned to the seas, settling Pi'Qanah, the Irasushen Islands, and M'Riss. These colonies enabled a restoration of trade with the Elves, unhindered by Dwarven influence."

You say, "The Third Age marked the Golden Age of the Endian Nation and the Luethran people. Architecture, Arts, Engineering and Magic, flourished during this time. By then, the Endian Nation covered nearly all of Albaria."

You say, "Two major new cities were founded during the early years of the Third Age: New Albabriddlaen, and Avaev, the Waterfall City was near Shaerek lands."

You say, "Contact and later treaties were formed with the Nirejis, who dwelt in the far western Albarian forests. Signing the Nireji-Endian Treaty, the Luethrans withdrew from a portion of the western Albarian forests."

You say, "Avaev grew in significance during this period, serving as a crossroads for trade and commerce between the Gnomes in the south, the Nirejis in the west, the Shaerek in the north, and the Luethrans in the east. A school was founded in Avaev by Siyasartu Jelonci, increasing the city's stature as students flocked to the city to learn from him."

You say, "Avaev and New Albabriddlaen were linked by a newly constructed aqueduct, supplying both with fresh water from the mountains."

You say, "The Celestial Temple is constructed and became a center of learning in the Endian Nation."

You say, "During this time, Luethran mages developed and refined teleportation techniques, while the gnome Giblor developed the telescope."

You say, "A sickness killed Azhjam Rasman, signaling the end of the Golden Age. Word of battle between two Gorbesh tribes, the Ilat and the Lakixeq, reached the Endian Nation."

You say, "The Rasman Plague swept through the Endian Nation, devastating the Luethran population. Aid was sought from both the Dwarves and the Elves in Kermoria, and the island colonies, except for M'Riss, collapsed. Around this time, the Ocular first appeared in Albaria's southwestern reaches."

You say, "Nuar Deiva founded the Rasman Sect, venerating death, and around this time the Rasman Plague died down. This lead the Rasman Sect to attempt taking power from the Azhjam. The plague returned, and ultimately the Rasman Sect gained control over the Endian Nation."

You say, "Shortly thereafter, construction of the City of the Dead began, along with the closing off of the Luethran people. Contact with Kermoria slowed, and the Bosueq, Opirks, and Cip'uja Gnomes were placed under restriction. This policy eventually lead to the borders closing, and the remaining colony on M'Riss was abandoned."

You say, "A royalist movement started in New Albabriddlaen, and as it gained power, the Rasman Sect was challenged in battle. This was the first time since the Second Age when Luethran had killed Luethran, and it eventually erupted into the Luethra Civil War. The Cip'uja sided with the Royalists."

You say, "In the southwest, the Ocular began gathering their strength, while Avaev was nearly destroyed by fighting between the Luethrans. However, Nirejian, Gnomic, and Shaerekian fighters repelled the Luethrans. During this period, the Royalists gained the upper hand against the Rasman Sect."

You say, "The Sruhos va Tlo'oe gnomes came under Ocular attack and were eventually slaughtered."

You say, "As the Rasman Sect was forced back into the City of the Dead, the new Azhjam was assassinated, and his son took his place. Eventually the Sect was sealed within the city and the Royalists regained control over the mostly destroyed Endian Nation."

You say, "It was during this time that Xin'Alaudas is born to one of the Gorbesh tribes."

You say, "A joint offensive by the Ilat and Beuven tribes proceeded to route the Lakixeq."

You say, "At the age of two, he was set adrift in the Lakiidas Sea."

You say, "Several years later, he returned to Albaria in a massive ship, and was proclaimed a hero and fulfiller of prophecies by Gorbesh prophets. The Lakixeq tribe was taken over by Xin'Alaudas, and the Beuven and Ilat followed shortly there after."

You say, "Nearly all the Gorbesh came under Xin'Alaudas's rule in this period, and construction began in the central-eastern Albarian forests."

You say, "At the city of Eimitek, the Gorbesh met with the Iyqaromos gnomes, and forged a treaty. The gnomes integrated with the Gorbesh and their lands were unified."

You say, "A period of Gorbesh expansion began, resulting in clashes with the Luethrans and eventually the Luethra-Gorbesh War erupted."

You say, "The culminating battle happened near New Albbabridlaen, and the Azhjam was slain by Xin'Alaudas when attempting to flee the field. The city was captured, and in 1385 BL, the last of the Endian Nation fell to the Gorbesh."

You say, "The City of the Dead was established by the Rasman Sect as their new capital, replacing the older city of New Albabriddlaen. During the Luethra Civil War, the city was sealed when the Endian Royalists won the war."

You say, "In 1368 BL, during the early Gorbesh Imperial Age, Gorbesh settlers rediscovered the city and renamed it Ixaem. Contact was lost a year later, and further explorers discovered that the city was empty."

You say, "Repeated attempts to reclaim the city were made over the next millennium, however each attempt failed under mysterious circumstances. The last known attempt was made in 395 BL by Admiral Xireshi."

You say, "It's possible that after the Shraek, who were flying lizards that could cover longer distances than ground traveling gnomes, discovered the ruins of High Hold, which they could see from the sky above the mist."

You say, "So now, let's talk about the mist in the Lost Grounds, which is adjacent to Albaria."

You say, "After much investigations into sightings within the lost grounds, and determining the cause of the mist, I have concluded that Pallid Ocular Mistweavers are creating the mist with the purpose of concealing High Hold."

You say, "There are two other significant discoveries I made during my investigation into the history of the area, going back to the early Imperial Age, with indepth studies into the Gorbesh Imperial Age."

You say, "I will first go over some history so that it will shed light as to why I came to my conclusions."

You say, "The Hiimarhand Shel means the Mountains that Divide the World in Half, which are in the southernmost regions of Ilithi and separate Albaria from Kermoria. Imagine that half the world lies beyond High Hold and within Albaria."

You say, "Amongst them are the ruins of the Dwarven kingdom of Adamantia. The Lost Grounds sit along the edge of the ruins of the southernmost city there, which is High Hold."

You say, "Morganae's Arm was built in to hold back the creatures created by the Dragon Priests during the perpetual battles for control over High Hold."

You say, "I found it somewhat odd that I have been unable to find any historical mention of conflict between the Dragon Priests and the Ocular, even though they have both occupied the area just beyond the Lost Grounds."

You ask, "Were the Ocular the reason that the DP were able to create such monstrousities, with the help of the Ocular as silent allies?"

You ask, "So where did the Ocular come from?"

You say, "Sieben is a god worshipped by the Gorbesh and the Kaldar. He is the Master of the Domain of Mist, and has an appearance as a hardened young man obscured by a great fog."

You say, "He is known as a shapeshifter so masterful that he fools the other gods and creates chaos among the mortals."

You say, "Sieben also created the Ocular and the Sruhos va Tlo'oe burned and died by his hand."

You say, "Following the near destruction of the Opirks by the Ocular, the Opirks were decreed as independent members of the Gorbesh Empire in 1348 BL."

You say, "When the Opirks came under attack by the Ocular a year later, the Gorbesh successfully defeated the Ocular. No other account in history of an Ocular defeat has ever been recorded."

You say, "Back in 1353 BV, General Iseum reported the existance of the Ocular to the Southwest, a blasted plain smothered in perpetual fog, much like how the Lost Grounds appear today."

You say, "This fog has seeped into the Lost Grounds as a mysterious mist, which I am convinced is hiding the view of the High Hold nearby."

You say, "I mentioned at our last meeting that I had sensed a Pallid Ocular Mistweaver within the Lost Grounds, which confirmed the source of the mist."

You say, "It should be noted that in 1335 BL, Gnomic inventors invented lift technology. The first lift is completed in 1333 BL at the Tiebesh Fortress in the Stormcrest Mountains."

You say, "Emperor Lakiumos devises a formal name for The Alaudian Empire. He commissions the construction of a great Colossus statue of the Builder to overlooking the Lakiidas Sea."

You say, "In 1325 BL, soldiers from Tiebesh Fort discover a half-ruined city near a waterfall at the base of the northwestern White Mountains."

You say, "High Priest Duevain of Misiumos and governor of the North is sent to investigate. Duevain reports the existence of a race of winged beings called the Shaerek and Emperor Lakiumos and the High Priests declare the beings "Winged Devils."

You say, "High Priest Duevain is given the task of conquering them and expanding the Empire. In 1320 BL, Duevain's forces advance on Il'in Sius, the city of the Shaerek, but Duevain's forces are battered away by phenomenal white winds that strike at them from the mountain heights and the High Priest is killed."

You say, "During this time, the Waterfall City of Avaev is built at the Great Falls to improve trade with the Shaerek. Avaev becomes a center of the continent, populated by Luethra, Shaerek, and Gnomes."

You say, "The Shaerek are a race of avian humanoids living in the high elevation of the frozen mountains of northwestern Albaria. They worship a singular bird God and are led by their High Priest."

You say, "The smoke-winged creatures in a recent vision made me think about the Shaerek. They use the White Wind, a freezing wind that burns, which could be described as crystal fire similar to a recent vision."

You say, "The city became even more cosmopolitan when Siyasartu Jelonci, of the Nireji, moved to the city and established a building school. When aqueducts reached the city from New Albabriddlaen, Avaev increased in prosperity."

You say, "However, during the Luethra Civil War, the city was nearly destroyed in the fighting, despite the attempts of the combined Nireji-Gnomic-Shaerekian defenses."

You say, "The last mention of the city was in the Gorbesh Imperial Records, as the site of a major Ocular defeat in 763 BL."

You say, "Il'in Suis is the city of the Shaerek. Located in the heights of the mountains in northwestern Albaria, and the Shaerek believe that it is protected by the White Wind. The city was reported fallen in 407 BL, when the Northern Gorbesh Army reached the city under the command of General Namiven."

You say, "Aniek is a god worshipped by the Gorbesh and the Kaldar. Possessing the Domain of Storm, Aniek is the cruel Goddess of Destruction, vindictive and spiteful."

You say, "She ruins for the sake of ruination. She disturbs the land with her tornadoes and blizzards and lightnings. Aniek tried desperately to kill the young Xin'Alaudas, afloat in the sea, and her anger assailed Albaria for a month."

You say, "She battled against the White Wind of the Shaerek for eighteen days to allow the Empire to reach Il'in Sius. The two ended the match in a draw, neither able to secure a victory. Aniek and Sieben are hateful enemies and either would destroy the other."

You say, "An example of modern day ocular appearances include Aojunni Cam-anfa, a Merelew who was attacked at the Feast of Eluned by a goblin assassin, revealing that she was an Ocular."

You say, "Dantia recently mentioned how Keishalae sold her soul to the Hunger in exchange for occasuinally bringing other souls to feed the Hunger."

You say, "Maelshyve and Lyras were likely in service to the Hunger, bringing other souls to be consumed."

You say, "Years ago, I gave the theory that Syal was bonded to the Hunger to prevent it from consuming the World."

You say, "After all these centuries, it must have many faces, a face for everyone it has consumed. Which over time would become such a horrifying monstrousity, and its appetite would have become so large that it could no longer be appeased or contained."

You say, "A depiction of the Hunger being attacked by paladins and rangers was seen on a large canvas mural entitled "Shadow Clan" from Terald's Tent at the Theren Fest where many artifacts were stolen that originated from Lord Sorrow's birthplace."

You say, "The mural showed five rugged plate-clad Humans that surround and battle an enormous scaled twelve-legged green monster by working in unison to confuse it."

You say, "The beast has several arrows imbedded in its bulging red eyes, the result of three more Humans that stand further away, aiming their longbows carefully around their comrades. The creature is losing strength and vitality, as indicated by its collapsed hind legs, while the Humans have nary a fresh scratch on them."

You say, "One possible theory is that the Hunger exists adjacent to the Lost Grounds in High Hold, which explains the disappearance of so many paladins, and the actual purpose the wall was built to keep out."

You say, "During our Sixth Annual Round Table meeting, I gave historical presentation about "A Tale of High Hold", as told by the Dwarven Bard Hrakisi Viikelen, which I will close with a few remarks about before giving my field report."

You say, "High Hold remained one of the few places to withstand the brutal attacks of the Dragon Priests." . You say, "Then the Dragon Priests devised a new method of siege. The Dark Hand was named for the corruption and plague they instilled into the land, turning the earth vile and evil while conducting their foulest experiments there."

You say, "The once beautiful lands of Adamantia and Southern Ilithi had been turned putrid, and High Hold was right at the center of it all. They lasted as long as they could, fighting the rotting lands around them valiantly. But the people were finally besieged in such a way that they knew would be their end."

You say, "The once pristine waters had turned to noxious poisons. Where game was once plentiful, now there were only monsters, whose meats would make a man ill."

You say, "Healing herbs were transformed into deadly weeds that would attempt to kill a man that approached them. Eating them would fill the body with disease and acids."

You say, "After several decades, the fortress of High Hold was destroyed by the Dark Hand. It is a wretched, ghostly place now, truly a part of the loathsome lands that consumed it."

You say, "Then he ends with this mysterious comment, "Those who enter the Dark Hand would do well to stay clear of the once mighty fortress."

You say, "But if High Hold was truly destroyed, then why would it need to be avoided? It makes me wonder if they knew there was something there that needed to be avoided, and makes me more determined to find what lies beyond the old bailey. Most likely a rockface with a lift obscured by the mist."

You say, "Moving on to my investigation of the ruins in the Lost Grounds, and spending significant time scouting the area taking extensive notes, and the continued study of some intriguing items that required further research."

You say, "One of them are ruins of a bailey, which seems quite out of place there. A bailey is an entry building that leads into a castle."

You say, "Morganae's Arm was not a castle. It was a fortified wall, used as a defense to keep the tainted creatures from entering into Ilithi."

You say, "During that time, Morganae's Arm would have been built just outside of High Hold, because that is where all of the fighting took place, since they were fighting over control of High Hold."

You say, "So that bailey is likely an entryway that leads to the renown High Hold lifts."

You say, "The bailey is viewable in areas to the west and south, four to be exact. Two are on the west side, just north and west of the dovecote. One is in the southwest corner and the other is directly east from there. I am convinced this bailey extended southwesterly and led to High Hold."

You say, "Once inside the old bailey, a series of lifts would likely be found and used to climb the rock face of the Hiimarhand Shel, rising to High Hold above. The dense fog that obscures the Lost Grounds conceals the view of this once spectacular fortress."

You say, "I suggest that other Emerald Knights take the time to look at these remnants of that great battle, to see if anyone can discover something that I've missed."

You say, "Also, remember if you bring non-mustered in friends beyond the wall, do not leave them behind or separate them from your group."

You say, "Unless you are an Emerald Knight, you may not understand the magnitude of what could happen in Blackthorn Canyon, given an imminent attack on Southern Ilithi, either from the Ocular in Albaria or any of the various factions of the Dragon Priests."

You say, "The historical reason documented as the reason why Morganae's Arm was built was to keep out the monstrousities created by the Dragon Priests, but I am convinced there were even greater reasons, such as the Ocular and the whatever has been occupying High Hold."

You say, "These details are what every Emerald Knight learns when conversing with various Emerald Knights along their quest. It is the final job of the Last to bring enough of the mountain down to seal off the Lost Grounds, if the wall is breached, to prevent the taint from progressing further into Ilithi."

You say, "In regards to how all of this applies to the current issue with the missing five, and determining who the enemy of our enemy is, our enemy is clearly the Hunger. That makes Paladins the Hunger's enemy, or possibly Syal who bonded to the Hunger to hold it back from destroying our plane of abiding. Stopping the Hunger from draining the souls and energy from us all until we no longer exist is the solution."

You say, "And that is the end of my report and historical accounts. My interpretation of any of it may or may not be correct, but if even one part of it is, it could be devestating to all of us."

You say, "I will now move on to repeat my field report about what is foreageable in the Lost Grounds since so many missed the results at the last Midyear Field Report Meeting."

You say, "That was the assignment I gave to the Emerald Knights to present the findings regarding the flora and fauna within the Lost Grounds, that everyone failed to do except for me."

You say, "It appears that the map provided to me many years ago by Kythryn is entirely accurate, and most fauna and flora are seasonably forageable during the warmer months."

You say, "Before we call issues to be discussed and voted on to the floor by Emerald Knights, I will first turn the floor over to our Scribe, Emerald Knight Vaddon to give his report."

You say, "He will then open the floor for all other Emerald Knights, to bring forth their reports, issues, discussions, and motions."

You say, "He is not here, so I will move on to all other Emerald Knights."

You ask, "Do you have any reports or issues to bring to discuss and vote?"

You ask, "Hanryu?"

Hanryu slowly says, "I had something but now I've lost the thought..."

Hanryu ponders.

You say, "I have one to bring up, but you can go first."

Hanryu says, "Oh, that's right."

Hanryu says, "I attended the beseeching ritual yesterday."

You say, "I am sure it was interesting."

Hanryu says, "We were able to beseech a vision of elanthia's deep history. Many scars."

You say, "Interesting."

Hanryu sadly says, "I don't find this a surpirze to anyone that's spent time in the Hand."

You nod at Hanryu, in complete agreement with his views.

Hanryu says, "The missing were near but displaced. Same story other's have heard and experienced in that regard. I am worried for them."

You ask, "Was the reason it is scarred revealed?"

Hanryu nods.

You ask, "What was it?"

Hanryu says, "Boils down to planar incursions."

You ask, "Like we are experiencing now?"

Hanryu says, "By powerful entitites. Yes, well, probably."

Hanryu shrugs.

You say, "I mentioned earlier about warring gods, it is possible now."

Hanryu says, "Anytime something like the hunger or maelshaeve bashes a bit of elanthia, there's a part that never seems to heal."

You nod at Hanryu, in complete agreement with his views.

You say, "Especially if one feeds the other."

Hanryu says, "Yes or warring gods. I imagine the hatching of the world dragon was another of those scars."

You say, "Indeed I agree."

You ask, "Any ideas on what we can do?"

You say, "We can wait until the floor is opened for that."

Hanryu says, "I know we've got duties beyond the wall, but since we've seen so little change there, I suggest we focus most of our efforts this side of the gate."

You nod to Hanryu.

You say, "On that note, I want to put a motion on the floor for a vote."

You say, "I make a motion that the Midyear reports return to Brent's Bar and keep the round tables here. As long as we keep necros out."

You ask, "Do I have a second?"

Buzan says, "Seconded."

You say, "It will keep us closer to the wall."

Hanryu says, "Seems fine to me. I think we can alternate between both locations."

Hanryu nods.

You ask, "Any opposition?"

(Crickets)

You ask, "Who votes aye?"

Hanryu raises his hand.

You raise your hand.

Buzan raises his hand.

You say, "It passes."

You say, "Now if nobody else has any official business."

You say, "I open the floor for discussion."

You say, "I suspect that either gods are warring or the Hunger is indeed too powerful now to control."

You ask, "Does anyone have anything to share or opinions?"

Hanryu says, "Oh that's the other thing. Liraxes manifested again. It's cooking up a ... device. And want's parts. Before you go donating, the Traders are setting up a negotiation with the crystal-math thing."

You nod.

Ryeka blinks.

Buzan peers quizzically at Hanryu.

You say, "I will leave Liraxes to my sister the Trader. She can negotiate."

Hanryu says, "It claims to want balance, which I'm all for, but what version of "balance" an extraplanar being thinks is good, is still up for debate."

You say, "I agree. Everyone's balance varies."

You say, "I machine deciding balance can be...."

You say, "A problem for the living."

Hanryu says, "It did not seem hostile, and it did claim to want to maintain the livability of the plane of abiding. So it's at least talking the right equations."

You say, "But keep in mind, if we build it, it may be used against us."

You say, "And we are led to believe it is to return the five."

You say, "When instead it will do the opposite."

Hanryu says, "Yes, I think we need more resaerch. Hence the suggestion we leave the wall to the regular faces and focus our attention on wild magic till the next meeting./."

You nod at Hanryu, in complete agreement with his views.

You say, "I will check the wall for infrequent patrols as I always do."

Hanryu nods.

You say, "If the moons are in my favor, I can do it quickly."

You ask, "Does anyone else have any discussion?"

Ryeka says, "I do have half an idea- but I'm not sure that's enough to present." Ryeka ponders.

You say, "Better to say it than not."

Buzan leans forward.

You say, "Half an idea is better than none."

Ryeka says, "Well you know us clerics have some ability to seek the spirits of the fallen. The trouble is that the bodies have to be where we can see it."

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

You say, "I see."

You say, "I did have an idea about clerics though."

Ryeka says, "It would take someone far stronger than me to make it work."

Ryeka nods to you.

Ryeka asks, "Aye?"

You say, "Taramaine should be consulted about many questions."

Ryeka nods in agreement.

You say, "If the enemy of the Hunger is the paladins, clerics and the gods."

You say, "All should come together with the rangers and empaths who have to do with the living here."

Ryeka nods.

You say, "For a solution."

You say, "But I do not know her, nor am I a cleric so that is a cleric thing to plan."

You say, "I mentioned that to Nawain too."

You say, "About Taramaine."

Ryeka nods.

You ask, "Perhaps you both could do that?"

Ryeka nods in agreement.

Hanryu says, "My gut tells me we've not had enough clerics trying to find solutions to this wild magic stuff. A few to many sorcerers and heretics. I get exploring any path to get back the missing, but that can be dangerous."

Ryeka says, "I can."

You say, "There is a reason why holy magic users were not taken."

You say, "Perhaps whomever took them feared the holy."

Ryeka says, "I was when the five were. But I was not with the five."

Ryeka ponders.

You say, "They clearly chose who to keep."

Ryeka nods in agreement.

You say, "It was not someone holy."

Ryeka ponders.

You say, "So that may be a solution."

You say, "They must be in a pocket."

You say, "In another dimension."

You say, "We can hear but not see."

You say, "Time must have shifted slightly."

Ryeka says, "Saragos watched for his lady as long as he could- until he was cut off. I do worry about him."

Hanryu nods in agreement.

Hanryu sadly says, "He's this close to doing something he'll eventually regret."

Hanryu says, "I get it, but..."

Ryeka nods.

You say, "One other idea I thought was that if the Heralds took them for something someone among them did."

You say, "It is like if one person casts something, and someone else is caught in the vortex."

Ryeka ponders.

You say, "That seems to be what happened, it sucked them into another dimension."

You say, "But then it could actually have been a decision made by the Guardians."

Hanryu says, "It's possible. I was sucked into the void prision that night with the big group. But I got spit out."

You nod to Hanryu.

Hanryu says, "But there was a LOT of magic being slung around. So who knows what happened."

You say, "You were too pure for them."

You say, "Is my thought."

Ryeka grins, revealing her dimples.

Hanryu wryly says, "Or to slow."

You say, "Well if nobody else has any other ideas, this meeting is concluded."

Hanryu asks, "Welp. I'm getting itchy in town. Next time at the bar right?"

Hanryu says, "Perfect timing."

You say, "Yes."

Hanryu grins at you.

Hanryu raises his hand in a quick salute.

Buzan stands up.

Hanryu says, "Safe paths everyone."

You say, "Thanks all for coming."

Hunter Hanryu went through a deep green door.

Ryeka says, "Take care! I'm going to see if Mother Sothavi has any ideas too."

~~Submitted by my now very sore hand, Emerald Knight Gwenddolyn.


Mid-Year Field Report Meeting Logs


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