Chapter 9

Greater Deity

Symbol: Sunrise made of rose, red, and yellow gems
Home Plane: House of Nature
Alignment: Neutral Good
Portfolio: Athletics, birth, creativity, dawn, renewal, self-perfection, spring, vitality, youth
Worshipers: Aristocrats, artists, athletes, merchants, monks (Sun Soul), the young
Clerical Alignments: CG, LG, NG
Domains: Good, Nobility, Protection, Renewal, Strength, Sun
Favored Weapon: Dawnspeaker, light or heavy mace

~

Spires of the Morning

The Spires of Morning is a temple to Lathander in the Castle Ward of Waterdeep. It was destroyed by fire in 1345 DR during the Night of Temple Fires, but was rebuilt within a year. The earliest construction on this site was a temple and monastery, also to Lathander, constructed in 998 DR, originally outside the city. In 1101 DR it became a part of the city when the walls were expanded to contain it and provide more room for the growing population.

~

The heroes approached the entrance to the temple and one of the priests moved quickly to get the doors for them. "Welcome friends! Rejoice in the rebirth and find salvation within!" After entering the main temple Queless once again saw the elaborate interior with solid dark wood pews and plants which led up to the altar where a mass of priests now worshiped. Thousands of candles burned against a massive wall decorated with all manner of golden and yellow stones. The light from the candles was reflected a thousand times and shone with a great brilliance as the symbol of Lathander Morninglord.

Immediately after entering Misha seemed to appear out of nowhere and approached the group. "My friends, I am glad you came when you did. I have dire news. Your friend from the Inn has disappeared from the morgue. This was my true reason for visiting the morgue. I knew something was not right about the way he met his end. I have informed my order, the Order of Aster to keep their eyes peeled for anything suspicious. The Order of Aster is a militaristic organization created by the Morninglord to watch over our temples and to rid the land of great evil. We have a couple members dedicated not only to tracking, but also slaying vampires. They were once part of a now defunct organization called the Foes of the Fang that ousted and slayed vampires throughout the North. Corinna Lathankin was the leader of that organization and met her current husband Jandar Ilbaereth in said organization. Jandar had left on a mission years ago to the North to infiltrate a nest of vampires. He returned with knowledge of the place and then subsequently led the Foes of the Fang into a trap. Jandar turned out to be a vampire himself and fought with the cursed souls. Many of Lathander's faithful died in this battle but the vampires were defeated in the end. Jandar was captured and brought back to Waterdeep. Here many powerful priests spent weeks healing Jandar of his horrific curse. After struggling through the throes of undeath and being blessed by Lathander to be reborn- Jandar Ilbaereth once again walked in the realms of the living. He now makes his home here in the Spires of the Morning. Corinna and Jandar are the most skilled vampire hunters in all of Faerûn, and now they train select members of the Order of Aster in the intricacies of tracking those of the Fang. I am one of those "select members" and offer my services to the Fellowship of Lightning in return for the chance to learn more about my life long enemy- the Vampire."

"I have scheduled an appointment for you to meet Corinna Lathankin. It will take place in 2 hours if you would like to return then. Otherwise you are most welcome to take part in our prayers for those who hath perished in the fire at the Silver Lion Inn. We wish them godspeed to their place in the heavens for all gods of good, regardless of their faith."

Queless entered the temple with high spirits running his hand against the grain of the pews. "I wonder if Lathander works as hard as Moradin. His priests seem easy allies. Welcome news, let us see how our new allies fare when the going gets difficult." Queless said to himself.

Queless turned to Misha. "Misha, it is too bad about Flen. Now we must deal with two vampires, maybe more. This job seems neigh impossible... I will send correspondence to some old friends to see if they are willing to help. I can't speak for Morin, but I will attend the service."

"The job is not impossible my friend. Keep positive thoughts in your mind and do not allow the darkness to overcome your spirits. Come, pray to Lathander with us and he will grant us wisdom in this matter." Misha led the way to the altar.

On the way to the alter Queless continued to converse with Misha. "I have heard horrible things about vampires. I thought they were only stories but now I wonder if they are true."

"We shall get a full debriefing on vampires, their strength and weaknesses at the meeting. Patience my friend, everything will become clear in time."

Queless stayed to pray for those who lost their lives in the fire. He said a silent prayer for Flen as well. Misha then led Morin and Queless to a small private room where they could rest and pray. He gave them a key and told them to meet him on the floor above in one hour. Queless requested some paper and ink to write some of his former Waterdeep adventuring companions a letter. He wished to reconnect with them in hopes that they would join the Fellowship and assist them in the days to come. Misha returned and gave Queless everything he would need and also offered to help locate his former friends using Lathander's informants throughout the city. Queless thanked him graciously and was then left with his thoughts as Morin prayed to Moradin Soulforger.

Queless wrote rough letters to each of his former adventuring companions before Morin put his hand on his shoulder. "Queless, it's time." Queless nodded and folded the letters, placing them neatly in a stack on the small desk in the cramped room. The two exited the room and Morin locked it behind them. "This maybe a temple, but I don't trust anyone these days... except you Queless. You're the only one I know will always have my back. Trust in me that I will always have yours my friend." Queless smiled and nodded, happy to have such a true friend.

The heroes climbed the circular marble stairs to the next level. Small windows in the side of the tower looked out on the expansive and beautiful City of Splendors. So much was happening all at once in this city and the heroes current plight was just one of many currently unfolding at this moment. Misha waited at the top of the stairs. There were a few wooden chairs up against the walls of this small landing. The stairs continued up past this landing as well. Three wooden doors stood before them, embedded in a marble wall. Misha smiled at the Fellowship and then walked up to the first door and placed his holy symbol to the door and spoke some words quitely. "Aut vincere aut mori."

The door swung open on a room enveloped in darkness. Misha motioned for the two heroes to enter and then he followed them within. The door slammed shut behind them and all was dark and silent for a moment. Just when both Queless's and Morin's infravision started to adjust two candles suddenly came to light on two side tables. Each table sat beside matching plush antique armchairs. Upon one table was a picture frame made of platinum with ornate designs. In the picture frame was the black and white drawing of a smiling halfling sitting on a branch smoking a long pipe. Given the morbid tone hanging over the picture one could almost feel that the halfling in the picture had passed away some time ago. Sitting in the first armchair was a Moon Elf woman, presumed to be Corinna Lathankin. "Misha, the Morninglord's light eminates from your inner being. Please bring your new friends in and let us introduce ourselves." She had a beautiful, waif-like figure and soft face that belied her intense energy and loud, commanding voice.

"Of course m'lady." Misha said as he led the two heroes into the room.

"I am Corinna Lathankin, Order of Aster and former leader of the Foes of the Fang, slayers of Vampires." Corinna outstretched her arm to clasp each of the men standing before her.

"Queless Huldane of Shadowdale, Leader of the Fellowship of Lightning."

"Morin Granitefist, Champion of Moradin Soulforger, Second in command of the Fellowship."

In the second chair was a Moon Elf gentleman who seemed to blend in with the shadows. He had a sad look upon his face but smiled honestly to the Fellowship as he came to greet them. "Hail friends, I am Jandar Ilbaereth, former member of the Foe of the Fang. I now embrace Lathander Morninglord and the Order of Aster to better train individuals in the art of Vampire slaying."

"So, we hear you have quite the story for us." Corinna said while motioning for them to be seated. Misha brought chairs from a back room and set them in a circle with the plush armchairs. Tea was poured and passed about. Words began to flow slowly at first and then began to gush with the intensity of a river spilling over it's banks.

"Honorable members of the Order of the Aster. We have a vampire problem and we have heard thou have battled these menaces before. The Fellowship asks thine assistance in combating this evil."

"That is our area of expertise, please elaborate." Jandar said expectantly.

"We have dealt with this fiend's minions. These zombies seem to steal thine strength. Even after destroying their bodies they reform." Queless displayed the necromantic pedestals and gems. "These items had foul magicks cast upon them. We found them at the site of each attack, except the last. These gems glowed brightly while resting upon these pedestals. The device was guarded by a force field that I was able to disarm by pushing a 'dead' gem though the field and dislodging the active gem."

"Very intriguing." Corinna said softly.

"The attacks are getting more brazen. We have dealt with this problem twice today alone. Early this morning we dispatched a giant skeletal king, upon his crown was this gem." Queless oulled a tightly wrapped small package from his pouch. He was very wary and suspicious of this item and kept it wrapped at all times and always handled it carefully. He showed the group the black gem he obtained from the king's crown. "It is cold to the touch. I believe this to be an important item for when the crown was removed the vile creature did shutter and fade from existence." Morin pulled the skeleton king's crown from his pack and also added that to the pile. "There's that too..." he said in a hushed tone.

Corinna sat forward in her chair and listened intently to the descriptions and then took a device and gem in hand and inspected them carefully. She then took the crown and touched the gem. "This is foul magic." Corinna said. "Ancient necromantic magick. These items hail from Netheriel times. I believe this crown was the crown of a king who died over 400 years ago up north in Icewind Dale. I will have to visit the Waterdeep Library to obtain his name and history and confirm my suspicions. This is bad news indeed and leaves me to believe that we're dealing with a vampire who could possibly be hundreds of years old. If he hails from Netheriel times the City of Waterdeep is in grave danger and I am frankly surprised you two are still alive. May I hold onto all these artifacts and research them further? I will lend you a few very powerful magical items to show my good will to return them when I am through studying them." Corinna sat back and continued listening to Queless the Drow spill out their personal accounts of their recent encounters.

"An informant, who's accuracy is proven by his murder- described this knave as a tall half-elf sporting a brown cloak with the hood down, he had a thick scar from a blade across his forehead. He had white, shriveled hands with long gangly nails. His hair was blond or silver. One of his eyes were brown, one blue. He stated that after he lost consciousness."

"This is very good information." Corinna said. "I will do research on the crown and it's gem, one of the ancient necromantic devices and it's gem, and see if I can match this description to any known vampires in the North or all of Faerun for that matter. Thank you for coming to visit us. Misha did well finding you. Would you mind if he stuck with you for protection and educational purposes?"

"That would be most welcome Miss Corinna. What else should we do to protect ourselves from the vampire's power?" Queless said.

"Here are three items which will help guard you from the vampire and his possible advances." Corinna handed them a wooden stake that glowed with a faint yellow light, a hammer with the Morninglord's symbol upon the side, and an amulet. Jandar explained the magical items to the group. "Queless, wear this amulet and it will protect you from the Vampire. Morin and Misha have holy symbols to protect them, but you are walking bare. This amulet will function as a holy symbol does against vampires. The magical stake and hammer will set fear in his heart and make him keep his distance. Keep them close to you at all times. Perhaps this job would be best suited to Misha or Morin during the day and Queless at night?"

"I'm hoping tis does not come to it, but shall we encounter said creature of night. How shalt we dispatch of him?" Queless inquired.

Corinna provided a detailed description to the group.
"One would have to attack with powerful magic and magical weapons to subdue him. Once subdued you would need to have a powerful priest put their holy symbol upon his head while two to four people hold down the vampire. Then the priest would pray for great power from his or her god or goddess and drive the magical stake into it's heart with the magical hammer. You could also accomplish this if you were to locate the vampire during the day in his sleeping chambers, casket, coffin, or crypt. Beware, vampires can still operate during the day, but are less likely to wake up if one is silent and scentless."

Corinna stepped forward to bid the group farewell. "Good luck men, we will be doing our research. Why not continue with yours and see if any information reveals itself? Let us meet back here tomorrow and everyday after that until we are able to unearth more information regarding this terrible threat to the City of Splendors! Well met!"

With that the group exited the magical room on the third floor of the second tower of the Spires of the Morning and returned to their quiet room to contemplate their future and the future of the citizens of Waterdeep.

~

Order of the Aster

Leader(s): Various
Alignment: Lawful Good & Neutral Good
Races: Human, Elf, Celestials
Enemies: Most evil-aligned groups/creatures/undead
Base of Operations: Waterdeep

The Order of the Aster is a militaristic organization that serves Lathander.

Multiclass as cleric, divine champion, divine disciple, hierophant, or Purple Dragon knight. Paladins of the Morninglord are among the best-loved heroes of Faerûn. They are loosely organized (along with other fighters devoted to the god) into a holy order called the Order of the Aster. Within their own church, the paladins are frequently more conservative and concerned with the way things should be done than the clerics, who are often neutral rather than lawful. Members of this order protect temples and shrines, serve to lead large military groups, levied as needed to serve the church, and roam the land seeking to do good in their gods name, promoting his worship. Individual temples and shrines of Lathander do not usually maintain standing military forces of any substantial size due to their cost and upkeep, although they often retain warriors and members of the Order to guard their establishments in numbers that each temple decides is appropriate.

Interior layout of "Spires of the Morning - Temple of Lathander Morninglord (above)

Chapter 8

The two friends left the horrific scene at the Silver Lion Inn and headed down the hill towards the docks. The smell of the sea permeated the entire area and a cool summer wind blew up from the ocean and through the streets tossing Queless's hair about. It felt good to have clean air to breathe and the smell of the ocean invigorated him. "One day twould be magnificent to sail these fair seas looking for adventure on the open ocean." Queless murmured. "Not fer me." Morin said "I prefer to keep me feet on solid ground. Whatcha gonna do when that ship yer on goes down? Plus Dwarves don't swim, we sink." Queless smirked but kept his comments to himself.

The two trudged on until the streets started to level out and the docks were in view ahead. Just before the docks they turned left down a side street and passed the Shipmasters Hall on their right. Vendall's Varied Goods was just ahead on the left. There appeared to be a commotion at the front door. A group of 4 guards stood outside and two more just inside the front door. A small crowd was starting to gather. From inside a guard could be heard talking very loudly as if to announce to the world his intentions. "Vendall Vermannis of Vendall's Varied Goods, you are under arrest by the Waterdeep Council on Trading/Imports & Exports for violating trade law 45338F, smuggling stolen and illegal goods from islands off the Sword Coast and dealing said goods from your shop which is in violation of trade law 45338D. You will be formally charged and attend a court session on which evidence will be presented. You may plead guilty or not guilty at that time and may call witnesses and show evidence. We have been watching you for a long time and have enough evidence to put you in prison for at least 2 years you little scoundrel. Come with us!" The guards emerged from Vendall's shop with Vendall chained and in tow. A few local pirates shouted obscenities at the guards, but the guard completely ignore them and continue on their way. Vendall was looking at the ground, but looked up as he passed Morin and Queless. Vendall's face grew contorted with anger. "You fools, I trusted you to take care of my problem and this is how you repay me? You'll get what's coming to you." At this one of the guards gagged Vendall so he could no longer speak. "Shut up criminal scum. You talk when we say you can talk."

Queless addressed Vendall as the guards hauled him past. "'Tis not our fault thou deal in contraband. I did not know the nature of thine business, but know this Vendall, thine life is in danger. Grebble Poisonsabre is dead, killed by the person responsible for the problem. There be two marks upon his neck. Mayhaps prison is the safest place for thee."

Queless began to walk away from the guards and turned to convey one last thought. "Focus thine anger elsewhere Vendall. We are not responsible for thine arrest. We will try to find an advocate for thee in a few days." Vendall looked Queless in the eyes and nodded. His shoulders slumped and Queless could tell that the anger had either been redirected or left the trader entirely.

The guards hastily exited the Dock Ward before a crowd could grow.

Queless and Morin left Dock Ward and started the long walk to Piergeron's Palace. Along the way a tough looking gang passed heading into the lower dock wards. One man was over 9 feet tall and inhumanly muscular. His skin had a bluish tint and he wore strange tribal garb and armor made from chitinous shell with spikes protruding from it. His hair was long and he was heavily armed. The man glanced at Morin and Queless but continued on his way.

Queless and Morin ignored the group and continued climbing the hill up and out of the Dock Ward. "Morin, tis been a busy morning. I feel hunger gnawing at me. Let us eat on our way to the palace. I think that Aurora's voucher may come in handy today, once we know what we need." Morin nodded in agreement "Aye, I haven't eaten at all today and my strength is running low. What I need is a steak the size of me head!" A large grin spread across Morin Granitefist's face as he imagined his large hot meal. "I might as well begin my prayers to Moradin Soulforger so we have more time for eating once we get there. Where doth we dine my good friend?"

"It matters not to I my good friend, wherever you wish to eat is fine with me." Queless said.

"Aye, we'll eat at Boduccio's Dockside. I've heard it's a good place, although we'll have to backtrack a bit. It's down on the waterfront. Follow me!" Morin turned on his heels and walked back down the hill. Queless followed Morin back down to the waterfront. Many enormous and beautiful ships were docked here along with small fishing skiffs. The waterfront was alive with sailors unloading cargo and fish. A few stands sold fish for a discounted price to the public after dealing the majority of their goods to the local restaurants and inns. The smell of the fish and garbage mixed with the occasional fresh breeze blowing in off the sea. A large wall ran the length of the harbor straight through the water with a few breaks here and there to screen and allow ships in and out of the City of Waterdeep. Large groups of men fresh off of ships laughed, drank, and walked the docks and waterfront area. Visitors and locals meandered through the crowds of fishermen and sailors looking for a good deal or tasty meal. Morin pointed out the establishment at which he longed to dine, Boduccio's Dockside.

BODUCCIO'S DOCKSIDE - Note link to map of dining establishment.
Proprietor: Vincelli Boduccio
Location: Dock Street (Dock Ward) Right on Waterfront 1/2 block west of Odd Street.
Prices: High
Quality: 5 stars

Boduccio's Restaurant is a fine dining establishment right on the Docks of Waterdeep. The prices are high and the view magnificent. There are three walls of windows that allow patrons to lookout onto the harbor while they eat. Boduccio's specializes in foods from around the realms and fine wines.

Vincelli Boduccio is the owner of this fair establishment. A native of Tethyr, he came here to escape the ravages of the wars and regain his former wealth. At one time he owned large amounts of vineyards. Vincelli is very charming and courteous, especially with the noble women of Waterdeep. He is also an expert on wines and while he maintains an air of nobility about him, Vincelli often brings food to Waterdeep's homeless.

There are some rumors however, that say Vincelli has more than a few dealings with 'the city below' although no one can prove any of these stories. Vincelli makes sure to keep on the good side of the City Watch, giving them a warm drink during the winter (or cool one in the summer) free of charge.

Vincelli Boduccio is becoming quite successful in his venture and is quickly becoming 'the new thing' in Waterdhavian Society, especially with the nobles.

25 gold and a damn fine meal later Morin and Queless exited the five star dining establishment thoroughly satisfied and with Morin slightly intoxicated off fine Tethyrian wine. Both heroes picked their teeth with a new invention made of wood called "tooth picks". Morin kept his in his mouth as he walked the waterfront and breathed in the air. "Ah, you know Queless, although I once hailed from great underground dwarven halls where Moradin Soulforger ruled with all his might. But, the City of Splendors is such a marvelous place full of people and goods from all over Faerun. I can find the halls of Moradin and the dwarves here, food from Maztica, wine from Tethyr, what else could one ask for? I just have to remember to always uphold the ways of Moradin and never forget from where I hail. The great god Moradin is my father and always will be, but Waterdeep is starting to feel like home. Maybe it's the wine talk, but I feel good here. You're like a taller and darker brother I never had and together we'll get this Fellowship of Lightning well known and help those less fortunate. I think we should take some jobs that don't pay after this. Let's help out those in need in that they may also give back when they're back on their feet." With this Morin tossed a platinum piece in a performing minstrel beggar's hat. The musician did not stop playing but nodded enthusiastically and called out "Thank ye fine sir!"

"Let's make haste to Piergeron's Palace to collect our reward!" With that Morin was off like a stallion, using the energy of the fine food and wine to power his small but strong and muscular legs up the great hill towards the Castle Ward of Waterdeep, the City of Splendors.

Before long the two were at the giant steps leading up to the entrance to Piergeron's Palace. "I guess we should keep this as low key as possible." Morin said. "We don't want to draw any extra attention to this as Council Member Grendmeer Mendothian wanted us to keep the job silent. Shall we?" "Let us proceed cautiously and see if we can meet and parlay with him." Queless said.

After climbing the steps two guards blocked the way. Luckily the council member stood just inside the entryway perhaps watching and waiting for the two. He moved forward and spoke quitely to the guards who nodded and allowed entry.

"Council Member Mendothian, The Fellowship of Lighting have returned to claim what is rightfully ours. We must also petition thee for sponsorship and discuss certain matters in private." Queless said to the council member.

"My heroes!" the council member said affectionately. "You have no idea how happy you have made the council. They have agreed to expedite your adventuring guild charter and official name status so that you will be able to pick up your papers today! This is grand news indeed as it usually can take up to a month to process. Come with me to my office and we shall discuss our other form of payment."

After climbing two flights of grand marble stairs the three arrived at a small wooden door leading past a woman doing paperwork at a desk and into a beautiful office looking out on the city. "Have a seat friends. I'll make this as quick as possible for you. Please sign these papers, I will have my secretary run them down while we look over the magical items available for you to choose from." Council Member Mendothian handed them the official adventuring guild charter for the City of Waterdeep. At the top was the name FELLOWSHIP OF LIGHTNING and below that were places for up to 20 members. At the top were the names Queless Huldane and Morin Granitefist with places to sign and a final spot to sign at the bottom. Both men signed the paperwork and handed it over. "You may adopt up to 18 more members before any fees apply. Normally we require a fee for each new member, but we have waived these and expedited your charter in return for your honorable silence regarding both the secret chambers and the hidden passageway contained therein. We would like to keep the entire matter quiet and we appreciate your cooperation in this matter."

Queless leaned close while filing out the paperwork and spoke in hushed tones. "Thank thee for thine time Council Member. We know thee art a busy man, but this concerns the whole of Waterdeep." Queless rummaged for items in his pack while speaking. "It is our suspicion that a Vampire is on the loose. The undead attack and fire in the Dock ward, the attack at thine palace, Aurora's Whole Realms warehouse and another place are all linked." Queless displayed the items. "We petition thee to sponsor our us and our cohorts to rightfully do our job here. We also seek permission to access the sewer system of Waterdeep for a period of one week. His brazen attack today proves we are close and he is scared, but THOU art still in danger. Keep a close guard at all times." Queless showed him the note from the inn. "We are in contact with people to help us with information, but anything thee can add would be greatly appreciated. Once we are geared up we and rested we shall descend into the sewers and with a little luck flush out this rat."

The council member leaned back in his chair while reading the letter the group obtained during the fire at the Silver Lion Inn. "Hmmm, this is not good. May I keep this letter or make a hand copy of it for you and keep the original? I have someone who maybe able to magically gain more information about the individual who wrote this. If this is indeed what you fear I can see if the city would hire you to facilitate the removal of this individual. I doubt with only 2 members though that they would deem you worthy of taking on this threat. If you were able to obtain more members than I would be more likely to get somewhere with this request. Why don't you see what you can do this week and get back to me when you have at least 6 members? I could probably get you a large sum of Dragons and a permanent access pass to the sewers as a reward. You would be surprised how many adventuring guilds request this pass and how few actually get it. There are many hidden chambers and old access points to Undermountain down there. It's like a giant maze!"

Queless signed the necessary paperwork. "Council Member Mendothian, thou hast been too kind to us. We humbly bow before thee and give thanks." Queless bowed to Council Member Mendothian while Morin stood tall and watched this ritual of servitude. "If we shalt live through this and emerge victorious please consider us at your service."

"We will definately consider using your services in the future, thou hast done well." Council Member Mendothian adopted the Dalelander tongue for a moment in respect of Queless and his proper ettiquette.

Council Member Grendmeer Mendothian took the adventuring guild paperwork and passed it on to his secretary who immediately carried it downstairs. "Now, we promised two magical items. Here are your choices, choose carefully as I cannot allow you to come back and exchange your item for something different. You may each pick one and discuss it privately if you wish before you choose. We value your privacy so let me know if you need more time and I will step out of the room for a moment." The council member opened a drawer of his desk and began to pull out various magical devices and set them upon the table explaining each as he went.

MAGICAL ITEM CHOICES (CHOOSE 2 FOR YOUR ADVENTURING GUILD):

Bergett's Deck of Many Things : A special Waterdeep version of a Deck of Many Things- Please take warning that some of the effects could be harmful and the City of Waterdeep is not responsible for damage caused by these. The user is entirely responsible for the useage of this magical device within the city.

Khelben "Blackstaff" Arunsun Rings of Item Teleportation : Counts as 2 items - 1 ring goes around an item or is tied to it. The other goes on one's finger. When the magical command is spoken that item will teleport to the wielder. This will only work with basic items such as a weapon, shield, magical wand, and numerous other basic items. Devices that contain portals to other dimensions or planes cannot be teleported such as a bag of holding.

Fangtide the Shortsword : This shortsword was created by a mage/thief named Fangtide who lived in the Dock Ward over 20 years ago. In trying to create a magical shortsword which would help him hide in shadows and move silently more effectively (something he was never good at) he accidentally fouled up his creation spell and placed himself in the sword. He could not escape and many attempts to magically free him only caused him pain and hardship. He agreed to live his life in the sword as long as he could stay in Waterdeep, his hometown which he holds great love and respect for. He knows many of the streets and alleys in Waterdeep, especially in the Dock Ward. Growing up in Waterdeep also taught him street smarts. The wielder of the blade, once bonded with Fangtide will be able to gain special knowledge about certain locations and individuals within Waterdeep. They will also be able to use some basic thief abilities even if they are not a thief. The sword operates as a +2 weapon and +4 when wielded by a halfling. If wielded by a halfling mage/thief from Waterdeep this will function as a +5 and add +10% to all thief ability checks! The sword will only live for 24 more years at which point Fangtide will die and his spirit fade from the sword making it an ordinary shortsword.

Gertrude's Magical Bakeware : These magical pans and pie tins will allow even a novice baker to prepare the most delicious dishes from scratch! Only minimal cooking experience is required. Note: these can only be used in bakeries within the City of Waterdeep. These could be sold at high profit to a local baker as everyone remembers the legend of the famous baker Gertrude of Sea Ward.

Memminok Freingwend's Gavel of Truth : When struck upon a large piece of solid wood all creatures within 40 feet must save vs. spells or be unable to speak a lie for 1d10 rounds. Creatures may flee as normal, but if asked a question they cannot respond with a lie. If they try they will not be able to speak. Note: this magical device only functions on the living and those able to speak in a tongue understood by the user.

Ve's Hypnotic Harp : This magical harp when played by a skilled musician causes all creatures within 60' to issue a save vs. spells or be drawn like zombies to the music. They will stand and simply sway to the music for 1d10 +2 rounds or until attacked. Note: the harp is over 200 lbs. and must be moved carefully by professionals as it is quite old and delicate. Ve was a master craftsman of musical instruments in Waterdeep over 150 years ago and this is but one of his many creations.

JubJub's Charismatic Longbow : A longbow crafted by the dark skinned master bowyer/fletcher JubJub in the South Ward for those of great flamboyance and beauty. In addition to normal modifiers to the bow weapon this also grants a +1 for every 4 points of Charisma the wielder currently has.

"This is a fine bow and shall serve the Fellowship well, don't ye think Morin? What item shall ye choose? That deck of cards does sound interesting."

"I find this Gavel something that Moradin Soulforger would appreciate I use in his service. I thank thee council member for your gift in return for Moradin's service in Piergeron's Palace."

Queless and Morin gave their thanks and exited the palace with completed paperwork in hand. The Fellowship of Lightning was now official. They could now prove to guards and other groups that they were a legitimate business and were available for legal hire in and around the City of Waterdeep. Now it was up to Morin and Queless to find and add new members so that they would be able to take on bigger missions. They stopped at the First Bank of Waterdeep to deposit the paperwork, platinum, gold, and a few other valuables that they wished not to carry with them. After that they were off to the Spires of the Morning - the temple of Lathander Morninglord to speak with Misha regarding those that might assist the Fellowship of Lightning in their ongoing pursuit of the evil vampire who seemed intent on stopping them from discovering the truth behind the ancient necromantic magical devices planted about the city.

After walking for an hour or so the Velvet Champion sped by and came to an abrupt halt before them. "My friends! If you would need my services again please climb aboard!" They took him up on his offer and made it to the Spires of the Morning in but a few minutes. Morin paid him extra and dropped a platinum piece into his hands. "Thank ye kind sires! I shall be at your beck and call. Should you need a ride anytime please blow this magical whistle." The Velvet Champion handed Morin a purple whistle, smiled, and took off like a bat out of the nine-hells.

The great temple of Lathander stood tall and proud before them. A few priests stood outside talking, they all carried book and looked to be acolytes.

Chapter 7

Queless rushed out of the Temple of Lathander and onto the streets of Waterdeep. It took him awhile to find his bearings but soon he spotted Piergeron's Palace and some kind of commotion on the street nearby. A group of guards was gathered around something on the ground. A few people stopped and either laughed or smiled and continued on their way. As Queless drew closer he could hear Morin's voice cursing up a storm.

"Damn it, let me go will you? I can get meself out if ya just give me a minute of peace and quiet!" Morin had somehow lodged himself halfway into a manhole in the city street in front of Piergeron's Palace. The guards were trying to pull him free, but Morin would not let them and kept waving them back, wishing to free himself. As soon as Morin saw Queless his face turned beet red. "Queless, give a poor, fat dwarf a hand hear will ya? These guards are making matters worse!"

One of the guards turned to Queless. "This is your friend here?" The guard looked angry. "You know that accessing the sewers without a permit from the Office of Waterdeep Sewage and Waterway maintenance is illegal? If you can get him out of here before the City Council arrives we will let you two go with a warning, otherwise you will be fined 100 gold for trespassing and 55 gold for a public disturbance."

"Guards please give Morin, Champion of Moradin some room. Grab my arms Morin, thou art stuck!" Morin grabbed onto Queless. Queless pulled with all his might and Morin popped out of the manhole, falling on top of Queless. The two fumbled about with their gear intertwined for a few moments then finally regained their composure and stood up.

"Guards, please forgive my friend here. I know not what has happened to him. Did thy run afoul a wizard? Thou act as a man befuddled."

"Er, yes... well this manhole was actually open.. and I er... fell in. I must watch where I am going. I was distracted because I heard news that Gemdigger Feldenswallow of the great Dwarves of the North was missing!" Morin used recent news event heard all over Waterdeep as an excuse as to why he was not paying attention. He did not want to look like a complete idiot.

"Yes, well get moving along." A Waterdhavian Guard said as he replaced the manhole cover and secured it with a couple large bolts.

"Please guard, get the attention of Council Member Grendmeer Mendothian and tell him that members of the Fellowship of Lightning have returned. I do believe he's expecting us."

"We don't have time for that!" a guard scout called as he approached on horseback. "A mass of undead have attacked the Silver Lion Inn in broad daylight! I've seen nothing like it. The guards in that Ward call for reinforcements from Castle Ward! Make haste!"

The guards immediately assumed their positions and quickly marched toward the stables to retrieve their horses.

"Morin, they're after us! Maybe we can use their attack as a diversion and head to the sewers and find where these fiends originate! Let us get a wagon to take us near there. You can pray while we travel."

Like clockwork the fastest rickshaw driver in all of Faerun zoomed around the corner and came to a halt. "Gentlemen?" The Velvet Champion called out to Queless and Morin. The Velvet Champion was dressed in a jumpsuit made entirely of purple velvet. He prided himself on his clean appearance, low price, and speedy service. Some said he was magical and was able to tell when his most favorite customers needed a ride and where they would be. "Going to where all the action is?"

"Aye, take us to the Silver Lion Inn." said Morin.

Queless & Morin climbed into the rickshaw and the Velvet Champion shot off like a racehorse. The two had never traveled so fast in all their life. The City of Waterdeep became a blur and for a moment all their troubles seemed to fade away. "Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the trip." The Velvet Champion whipped around a few corners, shooting down alleyways like a fireball. He utilized every shortcut he knew and the group arrived in the Dock Ward before the guards from Castle Ward! The first thing the group noticed when reaching the Dock Ward was the strong smell of smoke.

The rickshaw began to slow down as it neared the Silver Lion Inn. A large crowd was gathered outside, most were wrapped in blankets. Guards could be seen as silhouettes through the windows lit from behind with a large fire. It appeared that fire was starting to engulf the entire bottom floor of the Inn. Smoke was billowing out the windows and people could be heard screaming inside. A couple guards carried out a body wrapped in cloth and set it down outside. Clerics of various faith were arriving via rickshaws. They ran to help the wounded and to protect the corpses of the slain. One, a priest of Lathander Morninglord went to the corpse that was brought outside. He knelt down and checked the body. As he removed the blanket from the body his face went white. As Queless and Morin neared the Inn they could overhear his words. "By the Morninglord's grace, he hath been killed by a lord of the night."

It was Flen, the Dalelander who had tipped them off to both Aurora's and the Piergeron's Palace troubles. His face was white and there were two holes pierced into the side of his throat. Queless was suddenly overcome with guilt feeling somewhat responsible for this horrible turn of events. The gallop of horses could be heard down the street. Most likely the guards from Castle Ward were coming to assist. Two zombies suddenly burst out through the front door just as an explosion erupted from somewhere inside the Inn. Fire shot of the front door and caught the zombies partially on fire. The flames inside started to climb to the second story.

"Tis Flen, Morin... He hath perished." A wave of sadness washed over Queless. It didn't come as a surprise to him though, most of the people known to him had come to violent ends.

Observing the situation Queless consulted Morin. "Shall we assist to rescue the innocent victims by climbing to the second story? Or dost ye think there's enough help here for us to assault the sewers and confront this menace now? Art thou at full strength?"

"Moradin Soulforger would be most displeased if we let these innocents die given that the reason the inn was attacked was most likely due to our rooming here. Let us hold our heads high and save as many lives as we can Queless. We will catch the one responsible for this and by Moradin's Hammer I swear he will pay."

Queless then turned to the priest.

"That man is Flen, he was the bartender here. He shall be missed. Priest of Lathander, not more than an hour ago I was in your temple, but I did not enter through the front door. I came from the sewers. This lord of the night you speak of is who we seek to destroy. Tis my belief he liveth in the sewers here and tis he who causes the dead to rise in this way."

The priest of Lathander looked up at Queless with tears in his eyes.

"My friends, I will have the other clerics watch over the dead and wounded. I must accompany you in case this evil-doer is still present in the inn. I have the power to hold him if he doth dwell inside. I will then return to my temple and warn the head clergy of this grave danger below!"

"Well met servant of Lathander. Has ye a name?"

"Yes Dalelander, my name is Misha Borne of the Light, 3rd son of Mykattik of Deepingdale. My roots also lie in the Dalelands, although we moved to Waterdeep when I was but a young lad. Let us save these poor souls and then we shall have time for more formal introductions!"

"Know this Misha, we do travel with death. Morin and I have made our peace with him and have, even today, risked our lives to combat this evil. If ye are prepared to do the same then you are welcome to join us."

"I do not fear death. I have been to the other side and graciously brought back by his grace Lord Lathander Morninglord to perform his wishes. He wishes us to give these people another chance at life, despite the smoke and flames that cloud their souls and burn their flesh. Let us go my friends, and if we die let it be quick and let Lathander Morninglord deliver us to the great beyond gracefully." Misha Borne of the Light marched towards the inn.

Queless, Morin, and Misha went around to the back side of the inn. Queless pulled his rope from his backpack. Using the grappling hook attached, he threw it through a 2nd story window. The glass shattered loudly, most likely drawing the attention of any zombies in the inn rooms above.

Morin cast invisibility to undead upon Queless as he started climbing up the rope. He turned and cast the same spell upon the yellow haired young Priest Misha. Then Morin started to pray, hoping that active praying would help him gain curative magics while Queless rescued people. Misha watched as Queless reached the top and climbed through the broken glass and into the inn room above. Misha then pulled on the rope to make sure it was still secure and began to climb while Morin prayed and chanted to Moradin Soulforger God of the Dwarves below. "If only he knew the strength of the Morninglord." Misha said while climbing.

Queless emerged in a smoke filled room and started coughing violently. This was no place for the living. He looked around and realized the small room he had climbed into was his own! The door to the room had been forced open from the outside and it looked as if a struggle had taken place. A couple vases were smashed, there was blood everywhere, and all of Queless's gear was missing! Beyond the door Queless could see flames and hear the screams of guards in the hallways, trying to evacuate and rescue patrons of the inn while fending off the horde of zombies. Queless could not get a good look, but it sounded as if there were many more zombies here than he had seen in the past 3 locations. Perhaps this was different magic than the Necromantic Pedestal and Gems performed. The moans and groans of the undead drowned out all other sounds. Queless could hear the screams of people being burned and guards struggling against the horde. In the distance he thought he could hear a sinister laughter and the sound of nails grating against stone, but that was probably just his imagination.

Queless's ears picked up the sound of nails against the wall. Thinking that extra help would be needed he peeked out the window and waved Morin in. He then reached into a hidden pouch and pulled out an Iridescent Spindle Ioun Stone. This magical stone allowed Queless to breathe in any condition no matter the quality or existence of air. He closed his palm over the stone and released it. It immediately floated into the air and hovered next to his head. It's magic began to function and Queless took a breath of smoke without a problem. Misha got to the top of the rope and Queless helped pull him inside. Misha said a prayer and winked at Queless. "The air just got cleaner." He then took a breath of fresh air from outside, turned and blew it into the inn. A huge cloud of smoke suddenly pushed out of the room and down the stairs. The air was now pure in this particular section of the inn. "Great blessings to the Morninglord" Misha said.

Queless drew his spell sword and with his off hand felt the black gem in his belt pouch. Morin reached the top of the rope and Misha pulled him into the room. "What've we got here?" Morin asked. "I have a spell on meself too. They can't see me. Should we move out and start gettin' these people outta here?"

Queless walked to the doorway and took a look around. To his left the stairs descended to the main entry hall which was now ablaze with fire. A couple guards stood amidst the flames fighting off three zombies intent on feasting upon their flesh. To the right the open walkway snaked alongside the wall next to doorways leading into other inn rooms. There were 4 such doorways visible before the walkway became enclosed and disappeared at the end of the building and continued up to the suites near the roof. Four zombies could be seen attacking something in the 2nd doorway down from Queless's room. Someone was screaming for help higher up and flames were scattered about here and there on the walkway. Smoke was everywhere except for this small area that Misha was able to clear with Lathander's magic. The sound of blades crashing into flesh could be heard up ahead around the corner. Chaos was erupting all around the three.

The group moved onto the walkway which ran the length of the inn. Immediately they spotted a few things they had not previously noticed. First, the doors to all of the inn rooms were already open. Each inn room contained either undead or a combination of undead and guards. No folk needing assistance could be seen within the first four rooms. Calls for help and screams could be heard further up towards the suites at the top of the inn. Second, the zombies here were quite different from the groups previous expeditions in that once they were slain they did not change into a glowing, spirit-like essence and shoot off to a silver pedestal. As the guards slayed them they stayed where they fell.

Queless called out to the group "It doth sound as if someone needs our help up yonder! Let us make haste!" The group charged past the patches of carpet on fire, the flailing zombies, and the busy guards. Rounding the corner and climbing the last bit of stairs the group found themselves staring at a beautiful maiden in a long yellow dress now stained with blood. Eight zombies stood around her, ripping off her ears, biting into her arms, and gnawing on her hands. The zombies were completely oblivious to the group's presence and continued feasting upon the poor woman. A blank stare from the maiden either meant death or that complete and total shock had set in.

Without hesitation Queless lifted his blade to attack. "Attack ye Fellowship of Lightning! Fair maiden we shall save ye. Have faith, it shall all be over soon!" Queless thrust his sword towards a zombie, taking his advantage over the undead by appearing invisible. His sword pierced through the zombies rotting skin and he shoved the blade deep into it's chest cavity. The sword stuck against some bones and it took a little effort to free it. It came out with chunks of rotted flesh, writhing like worms attached. After the attack the spell became null and void and Queless found himself standing before a mob of undead who promptly dropped the woman in yellow to the floor and shuffled towards the would be heroes.

Queless dropped to the ground thrusting upwards and into a zombie with his sword. He then rolled length-wise towards the zombies hoping to trip some and stopping an otherwise fearsome mob. Queless tripped two of the creatures and they hit the ground.

Misha pulled out a golden scepter and called out "Abominations! Ye shall return to the place from whence you came or burn in the light of truth borne from the Morninglord's rebirth!"

Misha's scepter glowed with a bright golden light and the zombies all burst into flames! They shrieked out, dropping to the ground and writhing in forms of moral pain before turning completely to ash. The woman's body hit the ground and rolled over. Her bodily fluids were running out onto the floor, her tongue lolled in her mouth, and her eyes were wide open. She lay in a pool of her own blood and chunks of flesh. She was dead.

"Let us move further into this den of evil and slay the rest of these evil-doers before they-" Misha was cut off by a huge shift in the walkway. The fire must have already caused structural damage below as the walkway suddenly dropped a couple feet and shifted, leaning to the left. If it tilted much more the heroes would be thrown over 30 feet down into the inferno below. The temperature in the inn was rising very rapidly.

Morin and Misha both began to cough violently from smoke inhalation.

There were four doors up ahead. The first was open, the other three were closed. These were spaced out more so than the other inn rooms. These must have been the inn's suites. The area immediately around the group began to grow quieter by the minute. The heroes could now hear the roar of the flames, the structure creaking and falling apart, the few remaining guards clashing weapons with the last of the zombies, and the growing crowd outside. Was there anyone else to rescue? Was there indeed a Lord of the Night within the inn? If so, what was he doing out in broad daylight and where could he have escaped to if he fled this scene?

Many questions and very little answers...

[Begin Theme Song for Burning Inn "Lament of McCrimmon/Song of the Banshee - by Sheila Chandra"]

"Fellowship, this is the moment we make our name! If ye feel swoon, then get thee to the rope and reattach the grapple to the top floor of this building. If ye feel ok then we shall continue! Time is emergent, lest this building collapse upon us."

Queless ran to the open door checking for any occupants. No one was in the room. The large room held an ornate vanity and old oak bed. Upon the bed was spread a woman's fine clothing. This must have been the room that the dead maiden had been staying in. He then smashed open the window with the pommel of his sword. Fresh, breathable air flowed in as the smoke poured out.

Queless smashed down the next door. Belonging were strewn about the room. It looked like someone had packed up hastily. A rope trailed from a coil on the bed up towards the ceiling where a large hole had been hacked through the roof. The markings looked like they were from an axe of sorts. Smoke trailed from the rooms below and up out the hole into the Waterdeep noontime air. The sky could be seen above, blue with a few small clouds. It looked like whoever was staying here had their own method of escape, away from the zombies and out onto the hay sewn slanted rooftop.

Queless ran and jump kicked the next door. His strength and force threw the door completely off it's hinges. Queless more or less rode the door into the room as it collapsed. This room was completely devoid of personal belongings save a note stabbed into the wall with a large black dagger. Blood dripped down the wall behind the note, presumably the dagger was used to kill some poor sod before it was used as a means to post a letter. As Queless neared the note he realized it was also written in blood.

To those who dare upset my work:
Ye shall cease your investigation immediately and leave Waterdeep permanently. Failure to do so will result in the capture and execution of every family member, friend, and acquaintance you hold dear. You have until tomorrow at sundown to exit the city.
-O.

Something wet and warm dripped onto Queless's head from above. He naturally wiped it away and looked at his hand. BLOOD.

Queless looked up at the ceiling expecting the worst.

A familiar face stared back at him. A halfling dressed like a pirate, but in a beggars clothes. He had a patch which had been pulled back from his face and both his eyes were torn from their sockets and hanging from a patchwork of tendons and veins looking down at Queless. His face was white and his throat slit. He looked as if he had little blood left in his small body. It was Grebble, the beggar who lived in the alley next to Vendall's Varied Goods. This was the halfling who had tipped Queless off to the recent appearance of the Lord of the Night. Grebble was suspended above the ground, although no rope or hook held him there. He seemed to be just magically floating there, waiting for someone.

Suddenly Grebble came to life and flew straight at Queless! Before Queless could react Grebble had a tight grip with both hands around his neck. Queless felt an enormous and inhuman amount of pressure being applied. He couldn't breathe and the magical ioun stone ceased functioning and fell to the floor, rolling under the bed. Grebble opened his mouth trying to say something, but no words came out. Instead, a black gelatinous goo spewed forth from his gaping maw and reaching out like a hand for Queless's mouth. Queless was struggling to free himself from the grip, but try as he might the halfling corpse would not let go!

Morin hefted up his war hammer and slammed it into the halfling's head. It made a loud thump, but still Grebble failed to release his grip. Misha prayed to his great god Lathander Morninglord and placed a glowing scepter upon the corpses back and still the corpse throttled Queless. The goo was reaching Queless's mouth!

Queless, choking, stabbed upwards, like an uppercut, with his sword trying to pierce the halfling's skull. The sword pushed into the soft spot under his chin and gave a little resistance. Queless pressed harder and it punctured through the white flesh like a knife through stretched leather. The sword continued upwards and went through the roof of the halfling's mouth. This effectively pinned his mouth partially shut. At the same time, Morin lept upon the halfling pummeling with his fists and yelling out "Get offa me friend you fucking undead abomination! I refuse to lose anymore lives to this curse. Ye undead Lord of the Night wherever you are, you best prepare yourself for the journey to the other side because I'm comin' for ya, and by Moradin's Hammer I swear ye will die an unpleasant death!"

Misha dexterously lept to the attack and brought his scepter flashing out and thrust it into the side of the walking corpse. The entire group was grappling with each other and collapsed on the floor. The corpse began to twitch about on the floor and stopped moving. Morin stood up and helped Queless to his feet, then brushed himself off. "It's ceased moving. I hope it's dead." Morin said. "I'll finish it off with a spell." Misha said softly.

As if sensing what was about to occur the corpse tried again to leap to it's feet!

Queless reacted swiftly and brought his Drow sword down hard, aiming for the neck. The sword hacked almost entirely through the neck and as the corpse raised off the ground the head lolled back and hung from a slip of white flesh. Morin unsheathed his broadsword and slashed out. He swiftly removed the rest of the flesh on the neck and the head fell to the ground. The body kept moving and got to it's feet, headed for Queless. Misha crushed it's legs with his scepter and Grebble's corpse hit the ground again. The group attacked until the thing finally stopped moving. "We should burn it." Misha said while looking down and watching for more movement. "He will be reborn in another plane of existence. I will pray to the Morninglord to send his soul swiftly to the heavens."

"Good idea Misha. We haven't much time. Let us toss the wretched soul to the fires. May whatever god he followed look kindly upon him."

Queless watched as the priests gathered the chopped up bits of poor Grebble looking for movement or sounds of any people still stuck in the Inn. After wrapping the corpse in blankets from the bed the priests prepared to throw the mess into the fires below. Before they could set foot on the walkway the sound of wood cracking and crumbling could be heard below. Morin yelled "Watch out! Stay in the room!" The entire walkway suddenly collapsed and flames from below began to lick at the inn room they stood within. The two quickly threw the corpse into the flames and Grebble disappeared in the smoke and fire below. "It looks like we'll have to use the window to escape." said Morin. "Do you have another rope Queless?"
Misha was busying kneeling in the doomed inn room, praying for Grebble's spirit to travel quickly to the after world.

Queless grabbed his magical ioun stone from under the bed and closed his hand tight over it. When he released his grip it floated out of his hand and up into the air, hovering next to his head. He could breathe clean air again. Morin and Misha were coughing up a storm and time was fading fast. The inn was burning down around them! The heat began to grow in intensity and the floor started shaking. Queless smashed the window and called out for the other two to lower him down so that he could go around the building and retrieve the grappling hook. "Queless, Misha or I should go since you have that magic protecting you. Lower me by the ankles and I could lower Misha almost to the ground."

Queless and Morin lowered Misha carefully all the way to the ground. Misha took off around the corner to get the grappling hook. Queless thought he could hear a faint laughter and the sound of metal grating against stone echoing from deep in the flames below. What was left of the walkway ripped completely free and fell into the inferno below. The flames grew taller and Morin and Queless began to feel the heat so that beads of sweat were dripping off of them. Queless felt faint and Morin was on his hands and knees near the window attempting to breathe. The two could barely see through all the smoke. Finally the grappling hook flew through the window. Morin grabbed it and secured it. "Let's -cough cough- get..." Morin ceased speaking and simply started climbing down the rope. Queless followed suit. Within a minute they were safely outside just in time to see a fire wagon arrive. The guards began to run hoses to the fire and pump water out of a large metal tank on the wagon. People were yelling and running everywhere. A very chaotic scene was unfolding. There were bodies being loaded, priests praying, guards running, bystanders gaping. It was total chaos in Waterdeep.

The group of heroes ran to help the guards with the hoses. After the guards got the water running the fire was put out fairly quickly. Queless helped load bodies while Morin assisted in healing the injured. Misha went in with the guards to slay any existing undead while scouring the inn for any clues. After a couple hours the scene was calm. The inn was destroyed and no one knew if the owner was planning on rebuilding. Apparently he was away to his home town of Neverwinter and would not be back for a week. A couple guards would be posted to keep people out of the dangerous burnt out building.

Misha approached to thank Morin and Queless. "I thank thee my friends. Your bravery saved what was left of the inn and led to that note which I think shall be a clue in finding this evil threat. With this unfortunate turn of events and impending evil looming over us, I would like to invite you two to stay with us in the Spires of Morning, the temple of Lathander Morninglord. We would like to extend our protection to you, and no harm will come to you in the Morninglord's place of worship. The Order of Aster will watch over you, of which I am a member. We are a group of priests whom seek to destroy all evil undead abominations that roam these lands. I actually followed you here as I had heard that you two were responsible for stopping the undead threat in the Dock Ward and Trades Ward. Now that a vampire has been discovered as the cause of this horrible disaster at the inn, and I can only assume the cause of the zombies roaming the city as well- I must introduce you to two very important individuals who maybe able to assist. All I ask in return for these favors is that you allow me to travel this dangerous road with the Fellowship of Lightning. Any money that you wish to donate to Lathander's cause is up to you, I ask for no payment. I simply wish to assist in purging the evil from my beautiful home, Waterdeep the City of Splendors."

"Misha, ye did join us willingly and performed honorably. I think I can speak for Morin saying ye are welcome in the Fellowship of Lightning. We shall get to the palace of your Morninglord on the by and by. There are still some things we must look into here before we cross town again." Queless said.

"I understand. I saw you looking at your friend as he was packed up and hauled away to the morgue. I see concern in your eyes for him and I as well have a concern which must be addressed. He was bit by the vampire and thus may become a vampire himself. For one with a good heart this can be too much to stand and will cause one to go insane and kill many. I will go to the morgue now and check on him, if he needs burial Lathander will pay his way if he was of good heart and character." Queless and Morin agreed to this and thanked Misha for all his help. Misha bade the group farewell and headed off to the morgue.

Queless and Morin went to work searching the inn for a secret passageway. The guards granted them temporary access since they helped during the fire. After a couple hours searching around the two were unable to locate anything other than a small grate in the kitchen that only a very small halfling or gnome would be able to squeeze through. Since all of the folks who were in the inn at the time were killed there were no witnesses, thus it is unknown if the undead simply entered through the front door, accessed the inn through a secret door, or were magically summoned. After all this time searching the two finally gave up. "Morin, let us head yonder to Vendall's and see if anything queer has occurred there recently. I have a hunch." Queless said while leaning against a blackened badly damaged counter in the inn's kitchen. Morin agreed and added "Let's go to Piergeron's Palace after that and pick up our reward from mister council member." Queless nodded and the two were off to Vendall's Varied Goods.

Chapter 6

Queless reached into his pocket and pulled out his magical ring of Water Walking he had obtained in a past adventure, and slipped it on his finger. He immediately rose up and out of the water, standing just on the very surface. Rings pulsated out as he took each step, then he heard the strange noise again and began to run as fast as he could in the opposite direction. His feet splashed on the top of the water as if there were only a wet floor as opposed to a foot or more of water! He simply sought to escape entrapment in the sludgy sewers of Waterdeep. It may be called "the City of Splendors" he thought, but there is nothing splendid about my predicament!

Queless could hear strange sounds coming from behind him as he turned down yet another small corridor in the sewers. The sound of metal or nails scraping across stone. Then he thought he could hear a low, rumbling laugh. Fear gripped ahold of his Daleland heart and he charged blindly through the passageways!

Finally, the corridor emptied it's bodily fluids out into a large room so deep with water that Queless could not see the bottom. Many pipes and corridors converged here and the sound of gushing water silenced the sounds he previously could hear coming from behind him. From here there were two large corridors to his front which then split off, one east, one west. To his left was a small pipe he could crawl down if he didn't mind being crushed like a sardine and covered in brown murky water. To his right a ladder went up to a metal grate which appeared sealed shut with many large metal screws. If he had time he could attempt to pry them off. Through the grate it was dark and did not appear to be an immediate way out. He tried to image how far down the palace went and realized that he had also traveled over 150 additional feet underground to reach the secret council chambers. "I must be at the very bottom of the sewage system." he said aloud. Then he heard the loud noise of something crashing somewhere in the sewers. It sounded like metal collapsing on stone, then the volume of water in the room began to increase and grow with each passing minute! Something was definitely happening, but he was not sure what. Queless had to make a decision quickly as time was running out.

"Moradin, proud father of the Dwarves, I stand before a fork in the road. One way leads to egress, the other to my demise. I implore you, help me choose the right path. Upon my escape thine symbol shall be affixed to our standard, so when we enter battle all shall know in whose name we fight!"

Queless closed his eyes and tried to divine the path; concentrating on escape to the surface world. Keeping his senses open Queless looked for any clue his prayers had been answered. Queless's answer came in the imprint of a hammer and anvil on his mind. The two were colored gray as ancient steel, but then the color slowly shifted until it was a reddish-brown. In fact, the color in his mind matched the grate screwed tight at the top of the ladder. Was this a sign from Moradin himself, or had Morin Granitefist cast a spell to draw Queless out the right way? Regardless, deep in Queless's good heart he knew the grate to be the way out. The speed needed to unscrew all of the screws securing the grate and pushing/pulling it off before the water caught up was impossible by any human means. Queless was a Drow, perhaps it was worth a shot.

Queless paused to thank Moradin. Then quick as lightning he lashed out at the very bottom of the ladder hoping to cut though a rung. The ladder held tight though. The slash was enough to damage the metal, but the kind of time required to pry a piece loose was more than he had. His plan had been to make a crowbar or lever to give him a little mechanical advantage. He gave up on that plan and quickly climbed up the ladder, observing the grate and the strength of the bolts. It was so heavily rusted that it had deteriorated beyond repair.

Queless put his shoulder against the grate and pushed. The grate ripped free and feel apart as if it were made of paper. He climbed up into the room above. The room was fairly small and had only one exit through a large pipe going north. There were puddles of water here and there, but soon to be more as the water in the room below was rising rapidly!

Queless rushed down this pipe which led to a long standard sewer with walkways on both sides of a waterway and 4 ladders leading up to grates similar to the one he had just come through. The pipe he stood in was elevated above the waterway and obviously was designed to drain water this way or that. He would need to leap from the large pipe onto the walkway to gain access to the ladders. If he fell down to the water he would still be able to utilize the magic ring, but it would be difficult to climb the slippery walls back up to the walkway above. The grate above the ladder on Queless's right suddenly became illuminated with a mysterious light! Was this Moradin Soulforger leading the way, or someone with a light source in a room above?

First Queless would have to get closer and have a better look. He went back to get a running start and then charged down the pipe, leaping at the last minute and kicking in the air. He landed gracefully upon the right hand walkway under the illuminated grate. The light trickled down through the misty sewer air and enveloped Queless.

Seeing the light from the grate emboldened Queless. Regardless of what is the other side it can't be worse than mucking around in the sewers being followed by Morlocks, Queless thought. Queless started climbing the ladder and looked through the grate for any sign of what lie on the other side. Sky, the sound of footsteps, the scent of water, anything... it didn't matter, only escape mattered now. Light was streaming down through the grate from a manhole cover which was slightly ajar in the chamber above! Queless ripped open this grate, climbed into the chamber above and made for the manhole cover. He climbed up the last ladder and pushed the manhole cover aside.

Emerging from the manhole Queless found himself safe inside a large building.

Queless exclaimed "Thank thee gods!" He then kneeled and kissed the ground. Feeling a slight sense of awkwardness Queless slowly looked up to see he was in a temple.

This temple was elaborate and went on forever. Huge stone columns came down from the spired temple vaulted ceilings. Upon the spired ceilings were intricate golden symbols of Lathander Morninglord, God of Rebirth- a gem shaped sun rising over fields and rivers. White and gold were everywhere and bright green plants grew from large pots positioned strategically to lead worshipers up to the front altar where millions of bright glowing candles burned. Hundreds of pews made from fine dark wood lined the center of the temple.

A few men in robes stood quietly worshiping at the altar. One turned, hearing the sound and called out "Drow, be thee a friend or foe of Lathander the Morninglord?"

"Ye have entered the Spires of the Morning, our great god of rebirth could give ye another chance at a good life! There is no future for evil, especially in our grand city of Waterdeep, but we can show you the rebirth to begin your life anew!"

The clergy stared oppressively upon Queless. By their expressions he could only assume they thought the worst of him for being Drow.

"I be neither friend nor foe of thine lord Lathander; though, by his grace he hath allowed me sanctuary in his temple. I know thine thoughts, I be Drow emerging from the sewers coming to attack or spy upon thee surface dwellers. But this is not so, I may have filth upon me, but not upon mine soul."

The Priest of Lathander approached Queless unarmed with arms open wide. "My son, we place no judgments upon thee. Perhaps you hath emerged in the Morninglord's grace for a reason. If your past is speckled with death it makes no matter, for ye hath been reborn! Come, worship his greatness with us. Together we shall aid your transition to rebirth of goodness and well-being!"

"Good priest, please excuse my rudeness. I appreciate thine offer and may return to accept, but I must leave now. Please accept this donation as a token of my appreciation. Mine name is Queless of the Fellowship of Lightning. I must make haste, time is of the essence!"

Queless dropped 1 Platinum piece in the coffers of the temple and politely withdrew out the front doors.