Descent Unto Madness,Act II


Breakfast is served at The Waiting for Wandan,Sarah,and Andor.As you are eating your meal,Atheina enters,seeming refreshed from her stay at Tempus' Temple.Thirston is probably still passed out at the bar of The laughing Goblin with Calthos,and Greenflower left shortly after returning the identified items,and descriptions of their abilities.

Wandan eats his breakfast and looks up "Hi Atheina, sit with us."

Atheina returns Wandan's greeting with a smile and does as he bids.

Andor excuses himself after finishing his meal,"I have some matters of a spiritual nature to attend with.Also,I am going to make inquiries as to exactly what has transpired in my absence.I will meet you at The Laughing Goblin when you are ready to leave town,just leave a message here,and the priests will contact me."

Sarah continue to eat her breakfast only stopping for a moment to greet Altheina as she enters and to have a drink of calfs milk from time to time.

Wandan looks at Andor "All right, I hope we will be ready for a trip to Mulmaster soon,Swe have to book our passage on one of the ships that is going in that direction."

Sarah nods to Andor as she finishes the last of her breakfast. "I think now would be a good time to tell the Lord Knight here of the orcish encampment." she says as she stands up and streches, arms high in the air.

Wandan finishes his meal and prays to Tyr and Tymora for their company. Wandan turns to Sarah and says "Right we should do that."

Sarah looks around for the priest that she spoke with last night, hoping that he would be willing to let her see knight lord today baring further ill news had happened over the night.

Atheina nods quietly.

The duty priest of the night before is not to be seen,however there are almost a dozen other priests in the area.

Sarah thinks to herself .o0 I will just have to apologize later 0o. and heads to the nearest priest, "Priest, Could you please tell me the directions on how to get to Sir Garet? I have some news that he must be aware of."

Wandan looks at Sarah "So shall we inform him about the orcs."

The priest in question turns to Sarah,"Yes,Lady,I can take you to him. Your companions will have to stay here,or give up their weaponry though.Security is very tight,given the occurrences of late."

Wandan says "It's all right with me, here is my sword and bow."

Sarah turns back to Wandan and says "Yes, it will be news of some importance. Mainly because they will be a threat sooner or later, and it will be best if they are dealt with sooner." She then returns her attention to the priest "Understood. Thank you priest."

Atheina silently hands her sword to the priest.

The priest entrusts your weapons to another,and then leads you from the mess.You arrive at a simple wooden door with four heavily armed Knights guarding it.The priest speaks to the Knights,"These folk need to speak with Sir Garet.They have relinquished their weapons." The Knights allow you entry upon these words from the priest of Tyr.

Wandan looks at Sarah "Well lets do it than.". Then follows priest into the chamber. Says his greeting when passes the guards.

The room you enter is a simple one,with a bed,dresser,and small work desk.Sir Garet sits at this desk,with his left arm in a sling. "Hail,friends,I have heard that you wished to converse with me on some matters of importance?"

Atheina enters the doorway after Wandan

Wandan bows "Good morning sir. We have some important news for You." than looks to Sarah waiting for her to tell the news to Sir Garet.

Sarah after entering the door she kneels before Sir Garet and says "Sir, I am Sarah Greyhawk and this is Wandan Shirkah and Altheina. They have just returned from Glister, I was sent to meet with them. On my way to meet with them at Citadel Ankhalus,I found orcish forces building to the east of the Quivering Forest. After I had met up with them, I heard of the news of Glister and it being attacked by the draconic forces and of my father's death. On our return trip we were attacked by orchish scouting parties on the northern edge of Quivering forest and I have brought this." She pulls out the blood stained orchish horn and sets it on the table."Sir I have a feeling that the draconian armies are trying to push the orcs into our trade routes to causes nusances that should not be there. I also have heard rhumors that the orcs are now being led by a dark wizard of some sort."

Sir Garet looks at the horn,then lets out a short sigh."Aye,we have suffered more assaults upon our roadways from the orcs who call the Quivering Forest home.I fear that by the time the Dragonarmies reach this city,there will be no defenders to stop their advance.Have a seat on the bed,if you will,and I will explain myself more thoroughly."

Atheina takes her position near the doorway. "No disrespect Sir, but I always prefer to stand."

Wandan sits and look at sir Garet with interest and anticipation.

Sarah gladly takes Sir Garet's offer and sits upon the bed to listen to the tidings of this region and Sir Garet's current struggles.

[]: "You see,the citizens of Phlan are becoming increasingly more..well..insane.Three weeks ago,we had reports of a breakout in the prison of Sokol Keep.The inmates went berserk,slaying all on the isle where the prison keep stands,but fellow inmates.We have stopped sending troops to retake the keep,as they are all slain,or worse,become afflicted with the same madness that holds the inmates in thrall."

Sarah breaks into Sir Garets story "Would that be the Isle of Moas Sir?"

[]: "This madness has spread to the mainland somehow,and is rapidly spreading amongst the common people of Phlan.Our Wizards tell us that it is magical in nature,but that it must be destroyed at the source.They say we must find the original afflicted one,and either cure,or destroy him/her."

[Wandan]: "That must have been a magic of somekind. Perhaps the black magic."

Sarah seems to have a troubled look upon her face, .o0 that must be why the patrols are so heavy here as of late... 0o.

[Atheina]: "Might be some form of mind control or charm. In a large scale I must say."

[]: "No,that would be Thorn Island,Lady Sarah."

[Wandan]: "Well maybe we can help You to find him."

[]: "The problem we face is that no divination magic can pierce Thorn Island,so our mages can not aid us in finding this afflicted one.I have sent three local adventuring companies to their death,by securing their services to find,and destroy this creature."

Sarah nods her head to herself in thought, "Perhaps we could help you if you were able to send a messenger with a letter from Wandan to his family listing the most recent purchase of horses from his family."

[Wandan]: "Thirston can do that for us. He can tell my family about contract and horse delivery."

[]: "I would send a messenger to this task,whether you could help,or not,Lady Sarah.I warn you though,if you take up this mission,there can be no aid from us once you land upon Thorn Island."

[Wandan]: "Well we would gladly sacrifice ourself for the good of Phlan and his people but that matter with horses is very important also. It has to be settled soon."

Sarah nods to Wandan, "Yes, I feel it would be an honor to take this mission for you Sir Garet. And perhaps in the future some of the other knight lords might respect me for who I am and not who my father was."

[Atheina]: "This band can't do without me, I will follow where they choose."

[Wandan]: "As far as I am conerned We accept this mission and will take the risk. Only thing we have to do is send our friend Thirston to deliver the gold and contract to my family, so that they could send the horses to the Knights."

Sarah says "Very well then, We shall gather our belongings and prepair for this mission sir. Also sir, have your wizards identified symptoms of someone catching this disease?" She looks to the knight and then out a window into the street.

[]: "Yes,the change in personality is almost instant.One who was just,and good,the moment before will begin attacking those near him,be they friend or foe.Other than that,we do not know much."

[Atheina]: "Berserk?"

[]: "Exactly.The afflicted enter a state of constant berserk frenzy.This lasts until they are slain,or die from the strain."

[Wandan]: "That must have been some kind of evil magic. I think maybe it has some to do with the Dragon army."

[Atheina]: "We priestess of tempus can do that. But its not widely used."

[]: "I have heard tell of such,Battleguard,and your brethren were originally targeted by mobs who thought they were to blame.However,I think this is something not of Tempus' doing."

Sarah nods in silence, "May Paladine protect the people of this city and guide us to our enemy to deliver swift justice." She makes a gesture with her right hand and says "Sir," however she is intrupted by Atheina's words.. "Perhap we should ask some of the priests of tempus about this state, they might know of a way to subdue or prevent such magic from afflicting the group going to Thorn Island... "

Wandan nods "Yes she is right, we need as much help as we can get if it would it is a danerous quest."

[]: "The Tempurans have lost many of their strongest Crusaders,and Battleguards,in their own excursions to Sokol Keep.Their ranks are thinned greatly,and consist mainly of younger clergy,and those too old to war anymore.Knowledge is all they have to offer."

Sarah says "Knowledge may be the key to our victory. We should at least know as much as we can. Will you be able to prepair the boat for our trip to the island in four hours time sir? If so, that will give us time to gather our gear and make a stop by the temple of Tempus."

[]: "I have another possible link to this mess.Our ally Allonan has rebuffed all attempts to conyacy him as of late.This worries me,as his silence began just before the first cases of this madness came to light.You will find a boat at your disposal when you report to the docks.The guards will not stop you from going to the island,but are oredered to quarantine all those returning,by having them sit in the water for one hour."

Sarah says "Allonan, is he the wizard that lives to the north west of Phlan?"

[Atheina]: " We should seek Allonan out before we embark on the journey to the island then."

[]: "Yes,his tower stands on an island in the Barren River."

[Wandan]: "Good. We should be ready to go soon as fast as I tell Thirston that he has to go to Mulmuster alone. I think he wouldn't like that idea much."

Sarah nods to Atheina "Yes, good idea Atheina. Well, thank you for you time Sir Garet and may paladine grant you a quick recovery." She then stands and heads to the door turning her head back before exiting she says "We will end this plague sir, and I will see you again soon."

[]: "Aye,may the Scales of Justice weigh in your favour,my friends."

Sarah heads back to her room to don her armor and gather her gear. Soon after she heads outside and awaits the others to exit the temple.

Atheina bows as she exit. "May Tempus bless your weapons and guide them true should your men ever needs to use them."

Wandan smiles and says "Good day sir. I hope we will." Then heads out the room.

Sarah says "Altheina do you think you could visit your temple and find out what your priests know while we gather supplies?"

Wandan looks at Sarah "I have to tell Thirston that he has to go to Mulmatser alone too. "

[Atheina]: "I just came back from the temple this morning. There was nothing the priests at this temple could divinate."

Sarah says "Very well, I will gather the supplies for the trip to Allonan's tower."

Wandan looks at Sarah "I am going to the inn to tell Thirston about this. I'll be back soon."

Sarah looks to Altheina "That is sad news indeed. I guess we will have to rely on Allonan for our information then." Sarah nods to Wandan and says "We will meet back here at noon."

Sarah returns shortly with what supplies you will need to travel the day to Allonan's tower on the barren River."Shall we set forth then?"

Wandan told Thirston that he has to go to Mulmaster alone to finish the business with horses and came at noon at meeting place and is ready for adventure.Wandan nods "Yes, ready as ever."Wandan looks at Sarah and smiles slightly "Lead the way then."

Atheina says "Ready as ever" as she lays her hand upon her pommel.

Sarah mounts Leif,and heads out of town.You retrace your journey from the day prior,and find yourself at the banks of the river as the sun is about to set.You see a lone figure by the water,which appaers to be talking to itself.

Calthos listens to the talking person.

Wandan approaches the figure and gives it a closer look.

Thaddeus scratches his head, "I don't know! I have a headache!"

Wandan smiles "We have entered the danger zone. Now be careful."

Calthos can hear a steely voice speaking in the elvish tongue. "What do you mean,you can't swim?We can fly.Really,do I have to do everything?"

Wandan tries to talk to the man "What is Your name my friend, and what is bothering You?"

Thaddeus sheathes a dagger, and spins around, "Wha-? Umm, Greetings, traveler."

Calthos looks at the man and says "Sir, can i help you?"

Thaddeus looks at Calthos and shrugs, "I doubt it."

Wandan looks at the man "Well?"

Thaddeus points to an island. "Allonan's Tower, out there. I need- well, I want to get out to that island. The problem is, I have no way across."

Atheina place a hand to message her temples.

Wandan nods "Maybe we can find a barque somwhere around here."

Thaddeus holds up a hand quickly, "NO!"

A voice comes from the figure,"What do you mean?I told you we can FLY!Why do you always ignore me?"

Calthos says "Why not?"

Thaddeus unsheathes a dagger, and grips it tightly.

Calthos looks puzzled at Thaddeus "How can you fly?"

Wandan looks at Thaddeus "Really why not... Do we have another option."

Thaddeus makes an gesture to the dagger. "This is a family heirloom. He can take me across."Thaddeus frowns, "But, he can't."

Wandan smiles "Well that is another story...Maybe now is the right time to use it." and points to the tower.

The voice is heard again,"What do you mean I can't?Of course I can!Something wrong with you,Thaddeus?Maybe a bit much grog last night?"

[Atheina]: "Well can you shut him up if he can't fly you across? Its giving me a headache...."

Thaddeus rolls his eyes. "Please, Weavebane! Let me explain! This is a magic dead zone. No magic can work here."

Wandan looks again at Thaddeus "So shall we use it. And what is that strange voice from the dagger. What is happening here, please explain it a little. What kind of magic is that."

Calthos says "I prefer a barque or something like that, I dont trust such odd things"
.
Wandan nods "I hought about it too... Only if this magic is saf enogh for us to use it. "

The voice becomes rather indignant,"Well,pardon me,Your Grace.Never heard of such a thing.As for headaches,sweetie,I could help you get rid of that."

Thaddeus rubs his head. "I'm not sure you could. The magic dead zone is what is doing this to me. I don't know where this zone is coming from." Thaddeus looks at the men. "What business do you have here?"

Atheina looks that the dagger and frowns, ignoring it.

Calthos says "Lets look around for a boat or something? Its the only way to get to the island I think"

Thaddeus smirks, "So you want to the island as well. I shall continue on with you. Maybe I can explain more on the search."

The voice speaks out again,"That is easy.It comes from the island.I detect magic here,there,and everywhere but in that direction."

Wandan smiles and says "We have to find the mage because he can help us with this strange illness."

[]: "If we can not fly,I suggest some of you serfs set about building a raft." The voice takes on an imperious mein.

Thaddeus shrugs, "I wish I could help with the wood, but without my magic, I'm just about worthless."

Wandan walks ahead and tries to find a boat for himself and his friends and tries to be careful about the barren river.

Calthos searches for wood to build up a raft.

Thaddeus rubs his head, and searches as well. "Weavebane, can you see how far this zone reaches?"

Wandan helps Calthos to build the raft

As you search about the edge of the river,you jump a bit as a greyish,bloated goblin corpse bobs along with the current.Looking out a few yards,you can see that there is more than one.....there are countless floating as logs downriver.

[]: "Well,I figure we must have been just inside the perimeter of it.I don't think it is really all that big."

Wandan calls Calthos "Hey look there are corpses of dead goblins floating down the river. It's really strange."

Thaddeus looks in a disgusted awe.

Calthos walks up to Wandan and looks at the dead goblins.

Wandan prays to Tymora for himself and his party.

Thaddeus stands up straight. "Can you take me to the end?"

Calthos scratches his and says "Hmm, what killed them?"

Wandan looks at the river "I don't know. Guess will have to find out what happened here."

One of the bodies gets snagged on a rock nearby,and you can clearly see a patch on it's leather armour.This patch resembles the one you found by the waystation of Giant's Head a few days ago.

[]: "Turn around,and walk away from the river,Thaddeus.You should know as well as I when you leave the area."

Wandan smiles as he realizes that these goblins are similiar to the one he saw at tg Giant's head and tell that to the party.

Thaddeus spins around quickly and walks about 20 feet before feeling a little more empowered.

Wandan looks at Chaltos "Maybe here was battle too. Like there at the Giants head."

Calthos says "Well dead goblins are good, doesnt matter how they got killed. Lets try to get our raft going."Calthos looks at Wandan and nods.

Wandan nods and helps Calthos "You are right lets go people."

Thaddeus calls out to everyone else, "The magic dead zone ends here!"

[]: "I knew this sword once that could 'dance' in midair,by it's own power.What I would not give to be able to do such a thing.No need to be carried around.I could be a free dagger.I could carve,pardon the pun,my own land out of this wretched region!I could be King Weavebane the Dancing Deathdealer!"

Wandan smiles and says "Maybe You will one daY."

Thaddeus laughs, "I think you'll be in this family until the kids stop coming."

[]: "Hehj,I would outrank you then Thaddeus.What do you think about that,Your Grace?"

[Thaddeus]: "Weavebane..."Thaddeus makes his way back to the group.

[]: "Oh,I am being annoying again?Sorry,I should be directing my venom unto the filthy commoners we find ourselves saddled with."

Calthos says "Atleast he knows he is annoying, cant you make him shut up, Thaddeus?"

[Thaddeus]: "Weavebane, they have done nothing to us yet. Wait. Just wait."Thaddeus sheathes the dagger and rubs his head again, being back in the zone.

Wandan smiles for a second nad wonders if all magical daggers are like that.

Calthos sorts the wood he found to build up a raft.

[]: "That is exactly the point.They have done nothing.No boat.Nothing.Hey!Don't put me away because you know I am right...::mmmph::...mmph:::.."

[Thaddeus]: "Travelers, We can use my faithful dagger for a nail if necessary."

Wandan smiles again and helps Calthos as much as he can about the raft.

Calthos takes out his hemp rope and starts building up the raft with Wandan.

[Thaddeus]: "Anything that I can help with?"

Calthos,and Wandan,spend a couple of hours thrashing wood together to make a respectable raft.When they are done,the night has come dark,as no stars light the sky.

Thaddeus studies the raft, "Do we want paddles?"

Calthos nods at Thaddeus "Yes, paddles would help".

Wandan whistles while he does his job about the raft and takes the first watch when they make a camp for the night.

Thaddeus smiles and peers at a scabbard with a friend inside. "Paddles are covered."

Wandan's watch passes without incident,and halfway through he notices that the goblin bodies floating downriver have tapered off to one every few minutes.Wandan stares at black night above while he waits to pass his watch and hopes no rain will be soon. He prays to Tymora from time to time and looks around for trouble or wals around the camp watching carefully.

Calthos' watch passes much the same,but for the lighting of a candle,or torch,in one of the tower windows on the island.A figure can be seen looking out the window briefly,then it disappears inside.Calthos keeps an eye at the window from the tower from time to time when he wanders around the camp.

The rest of the night passes without incident,the only sound being the snoring of fellows,and the rushing of water going by.

Calthos wakes up Thaddeus once his watch is done and goes to sleep.

Atheina goes about camp,waking all once dawn strikes. "Come,friends,let us visit this mage and be done with this cursed area."

Thaddeus sits up suddenly and fixes his hair.

Calthos stands up and gets his belongings and makes the raft ready.

Thaddeus carefully shakes the scabbard a bit, and unsheathes it.

Wandan stands up slowly and quickly gets ready for the journey.

Thaddeus studies the raft a bit.

[]: "Well,it's about bloody time!Were you insinuating that I would be a paddle,or nail?Have you no respect?I am the weapon of Dukes,not some primitive tool!"

Wandan approaches his friends and says "Lets go. We have to talk with that mage. Sooner we get there the better."

Thaddeus smiles, "Get used to it, travelers."

Calthos nods at Wandan.Calthos says "And the sooner we can leave him again ..."

Thaddeus steps on the raft, gesturing the group to board.

Wandan smiles and pull the raft into the river carefuly "Ok. Lets go then." and steps on the raft.

Calthos takes a paddle and steps on the raft.

Atheina looks that the raft with a shrug and jumps aboard.

Calthos manages to steer the raft on a haphazard course to the island with his impromptu paddle.The journey takes a little under an hour. The island is no more than twenty yard across at it's widest.The tower stands pretty much in the centre,and is little more than a watch tower to look at.here is a wooden door for entry.

Wandan pulls the raft from the river and put his peddle near the raft. Then he looks up at the tower "Finaly here. Well it looks a little scary. All right lets see what is inside."

[Thaddeus]: "Maybe I should just stay outside..."

Calthos goes to the wooden door and listens if he can hear something from inside.

Wandan approaches the tower looking around for some sign of traps or anything unusual.

Atheina jumps off the raft and draws her sword. "Be prepared friends."

Calthos goes back to his party and whispers "There is someone moaning inside, I dont like it here. Be careful".

[Wandan]: "Wait there is a trap on the door. Be careful." Wandan takes closer look on the door and says "This is some kind of magical and mechanical device."

Thaddeus looks nervous, "Guys, I don't think I can help!"

Wandan calls out "Hey is there anybody here. We are have come in serch for a mage who lives here."

Atheina circles the tower looking for alternative enterance.

A book flies out of a second floor window,narowly missing Calthos. "No mage here.Go away!"

Wandan calss again "Is this Allonans tower."

Calthos takes a look at the book that missed him.

The book is ornately leather bound,with three small rubbies on a locking clasp.There seems to be writing on the front,and spine,but Calthos can not make it out.

Wandan calls "We need his help. This thing is urgent. Please tell him."

Calthos looks at the book and says "Thaddeus, I dont know what language this book is, but perhaps you can use it?"

Two more books,a small dresser,three lamps,and a bed are thrown out the window in relatively quick succession."GO AWAY!"

Thaddeus runs away from the entrance.

Calthos steps back

Atheina says "I doubt thats a mage..... Its not like one to throw his precious books around."

Calthos runs to the other side of the tower.

Wandan calls "We don't have time for games. Sir Garet has send us here. We need to speak with Allonan. The thing is urgent. Do You hear me?"

Thaddeus walks up after the things stop falling, and grabs all the books.

Calthos nods at Atheina and says "If he is a mage, he is crazy. Well, he wouldnt be the first crazy mage..."

Thaddeus looks furious, "WHAT?!"

Wandan nods to Atheina "Maybe You are right. Something strange here."

[]: "Do you hear me?Do you hear me?DO YOU HEAR ME?Get a turnip.Yes.GET A TURNIP!"

Wandan tries to disable the trap

Thaddeus looks up at the window, confused.

Wandan says "Now people get away I'll try to fix this trap."

Calthos moves far away from the trap.

Atheina circles to the otherside of the tower and takes her grappling hook and silk rope out of her pack. Calmly, she fixes the hook to one end of the rope and aims for the lowest window.

Thaddeus runs across to the other side of the tower, and sits down with the books.

Wandan tries to open the door. Wandan manages to handle the trap and tries to get into the tower.

Atheina gives the rope a few swing and let it fly towards the window that she has choosen.

Wandan opens the door to reaveal a small room,about ten feet across.A set of small stairs winds upwards in the north east corner of the room.

Wandan rushes as he climbs up and unsheates his sword.

Calthos walks into the door with his hand at his sword.

Thaddeus walks to the entrance and gets in behind Wandan.

Wandan clims the stairs quickly but carfely looking for traps

Thaddeus follows Wandan, and unsheathes the dagger.

Calthos follows Wandan upstairs.

Wandan,Thaddeus and Calthos,run up the stairs to the second floor,and find a human about to throw a chair out the window.The man looks old,white hair running past his waist,and a crazed look in his eyes."Where is my turnip?You hear me?I want my turnip!"

Atheina successfully snags her hook on the window and climbs with the rope. She lost her footing on the first try. "Damn slimy walls.." clinches her teeth and climbs up into the window.

Wandan looks for the person with whom he spoke before few seconds and smiles slightly "Hello my friend Your turnip will be here in a minute. Are You Allonan the mage."

Wandan,Thaddeus and Calthos,see Atheina climb in the window behind the man as he asks the thief and warrior where his turnip is.

Wandan whispers to his friends "Do anyone here has a turnip maybe?"

Thaddeus walks up, dagger unsheathed.

[]: "Mage with no magic!Soup with no turnip!"

Calthos whispers "No, not me"

[Atheina]: "Why bother with turnip soup when u can have a better meal?"

[Thaddeus]: "Sir, if you can turn off this Magic Dead Zone, I will certainly get you a turnip."

Wandan sheates his sword and smiles "My name is Wandan. We come as a friends and we search Your help good mage. Please don't be angry at us because we need some answers really fast so we beg for Your cooperation.We has to go to the Thorn island and Sir Garet has told us that You could help with informations."

The old man looks around at Atheina,and shrieks upon seeing her.He drops the chair,and scuttles to a corner by a shelf of books."No turnip.You tricked me!You deceive!You are agents of the Dreamshadow!I know it!You stole my turnip!"

[Thaddeus]: "SIR! Excuse me for raising my voice, but if you can turn off this Magic Dead Zone, I will seek you out a turnip. Wandan looks around quickly for turnip and says "We are Your friends good mage."

Calthos says "Dreamshadow? What is that?"

[]: "Thorn Madness!Devours,destroys,displaces.Not poison.Not magic.Insanity!He does it!He does it with my turnip!"

Atheina raises an eyebrow at the old man. "Come now, Surely you can see I am a Priestess of Tempus." saying as she waves her hand above a nearby table and speaks a quick prayer.

[]: "Dead magic.Dead mage.Magic is gone.Only Mystra knows.She,and my turnip."

Wandan nods "You are right. Please tell us something more about Your turnip... maybe we can recover it for You and end this madness You speaking of."

[Thaddeus]: "Why do you want this turnip? Are you hungry? Do you need food good sir?"

The man's eyes widen even more at the creation of a feast on the table by Atheina.He jumps,and runs to the pile of food."Yes!Meat!Bread!TURNIPS!"

[Wandan]: "Please describe it to us we havent seen it before and certanly we havent stole it..." Wandan takes some food from backpack and offers it to the mage "Here this food is good if You are hungry."

Atheina turns and smiles at her companions. "Eat your fill old man. There is plenty more where that came from."

The man holds up a turnip."This is not my turnip.My turnip is round.My turnip is glass.My turnip tells me things.My turnip sees things.He came through my turnip!"

Thaddeus turns to Wandan, expressionless.

[]: "His claws!They reached out from my turnip,and grabbed my mind!Magic dead.Mage dead."

[Thaddeus]: "A Seeing ball! Sir, did you have a Scrying Ball?"

[Atheina]: "I believe he speaks of a magical device or diamond maybe crystal." shaking her head as she continuies " Eat first my friend, tell us of this turnip you speak so of."

The madman continues to gorge himself,stiopping every few moments to mumble about his turnip,and cackle at some piece of food.

Wandan nods in understanding "You turnip must have been a powerful magical item. Do You want it back good mage? Maybe we can help You about that if You tell us about the dangers of the Thorn island."

Calthos says "Maybe we can help, but we need more information first."

[Thaddeus]: "Thorn Island?"

[]: "Seeing ball.Hearing ball.Speaking ball.Dragon ball.My turnip was the best turnip!"

[Thaddeus]: "I haven't heard of Thorn Island. Definitaly a crystal ball."

[]: "HE lairs on the Isle of Thorn!He lairs with my turnip!He tells me this!I can not go.Dead magic.Dead mage."

Wandan smiles "Well what do You say if we give it back to You. That sounds good doesn't it. So if You want us to help You in retriving You have to tell us about the island?"

[Calthos]: "Where is HE?"

Atheina gathers her rope and hook and replaces them into her pack as she leaves the talking to the rest of her companions
.
The man puts a finger to his lips,and shuffles near Calthos."HE is shadow.HE is everywhere.HE takes the turnips!HE takes the magic!"

[Wandan]: "What are the strenghts of the island, and tell us about the weaknesses we can use against him, than we will be able to help." Wandan gives a man a concerned look "And what does he look like. What sort of creature is he?"

[]: "GO AWAY!" The madman screams,then bolts to the stairs,and runs up to the next floor.A trapdoor is swung down,and you hear a bolt being engaged.

Wandan jumps tryinmg to catch the man quickly

[Thaddeus]: "Well, that was productive."

[Calthos]: "I hope he is too crazy to use any magic"

[Thaddeus]: "He can't anyways."

[Calthos]: "Still dead magic zone here?"

[Thaddeus]: "For sure! This is the very center of the whole zone."

Wandan tried to catch the mage but he was too quick.

[Calthos]: "We got any usefull informations? I dont think we can talk to this crazy mage anymore."

[Thaddeus]: "I got some information......He likes turnips..."

Wandan loos at his friends "So what shall we do now? I think that is all we can find out from him for now. The Thorn island is waiting for us and that mysterious and evil force which is behind this."

[Calthos]: "Ok, where is the thorn island?"

[Thaddeus]: "Let's get out of here, my head is hurting bad!"

Wandan says "It is near Phlan. We can take the boat and go there. I don't know much about it either."

Calthos goes downstairs and leaves the tower.

Thaddeus follows Calthos, sheathing his dagger.

Atheina searches the room for any item thats useful.

Wandan calls to mage again "We'll do our best to return Your turnip to You good mage. Please pray for us to return safe and bring it to You here."

Calthos leaves the tower,and sees the madman on the raft about thirty yards from shore."I want my turnip!"

Wandan goes downstairs and whispers a prayer sor mage to Mystra and Tymora.

The man has no paddle,and the raft is quickly being taken downriver by the current.

Calthos shouts to his companions "He fled with our raft!"

Wandan runs to the river trying to catch the fleeing mage.

Thaddeus puts his head in his hands, "Oh-no."

Wandan shouts "Here it is ... We found it. Here is the turnip. You can take it now. Come back and take it."

[Thaddeus]: "He can't go back up-stream."

The madman looks back at Wandan,and jumps off the raft.The man tries to swim to the island,but is quickly brought under by the tow.The raft speeds even faster downriver without the weight of it's passenger.

Thaddeus gasps, "Ah my Goddess!"

Calthos looks around the tower, if there is any rope from the top or any sign how the madman left the tower.

Wandan runs up the river after the mage and shouts "Come on I can throw You a rope. Here it is... Catch" and tries to throw the rope with grapplinghook at the raft.

Thaddeus looks to the mage, "As much as it pains me to say it... I don't think we can help. I'll need my magic to help."
Atheina test the rope with a couple of tugs, then climb up the tower.
Thaddeus unsheathes the dagger, and shows him the scene. "Gosh, I wish you could use you Telekinesis."

Wandan walks to the tower and searches it briefly.

Calthos looks around the island and searches for wood to build up a new raft.

The dagger starts babbling almost the second it is unsheathed,"Sure,take me out when you need something.That's what you get when you leave the only way off the island unguarded!I mean really,you people call yourselves adventurers?"

[Thaddeus]: "Please, Weavebane. I know it's too late to help. I'm just wanting you to know what's happening."

Wandan looks around for something valouable in the tower that would help them in their quest.

Thaddeus goes to the mage's 'trapdoor' that he used earlier.

Wandan finds twenty five gold coins,about all he would call valuable in this place.Many tapestries,and other artworks,have been shredded,or otherwise destroyed. Wandan takes the gold and puts it in his pouch. Then tries to help Calthos in building another raft.

Atheina slips and falls to the ground. She sighs "Two falls in a day" shaking her head and tries again.

Calthos carries out beds and tables, trying to splitt them to build up a new raft with them.

Atheina gives a sigh of relief as she makes it up the top of the tower and climbs in.

Thaddeus looks for a hefty chair.

Calthos shouts to Atheina "Open the door for us please" and walks upstairs to the trapdoor.

Thaddeus stops looking, and goes back to the door.

Athiena finds herself in what must have been the mage Alonnan's personal quarters.The ten foot wide room boast a bed,dresser,table and bookcase.There is bolted trapdoor at the hortheastern corner. Atheina approaches the door with caution and tries to unbolt the door. The trapdoor opens,and you see Atheina peering down at you.
Thaddeus tries to climb in.

Atheina sighs at the rest of her companions. "Do i have to do everything?" mimicking the dagger's voice.

Thaddeus laughs and rolls his eyes at the same time.

Calthos goes up and tries to get the bed and table downstairs.

Atheina smiles at Thaddeus.

Wandan whistles his favorite song while helps Calthos to build another raft.

Thaddeus searches the room for currency.
Calthos,and Wandan,soon have wood enough for a raft,and set about building it.The process takes a little over an hour,as this wood is easier to work with then branches.

[Calthos]: "We need new paddles too"

Thaddeus finds nothing of particular worth,being that he can not read any books in the case.The dresser has three drawers.The first two contain clothing,but the bottom one is locked.

Wandan sits and rests after finishing work with raft and takes some food and eats it.

Calthos examines a bed leg.

Wandan pulls the raft to the river and preperes it for crossing the river.

Atheina shouts "Hey Wandan, come take a look at this drawer thats lock before you set sail"

Wandan approaches and inspect teh lock carefuly.

Calthos takes his sword and pulls out off a bed leg an odd rock.

Wandan tries to open the lock.

[Calthos]: "Come over here and see what i found....it looks...hmm mysterious."

Thaddeus looks down inside.

Calthos points at the odd black rock.

Thaddeus inspects the rock.

Wandan looks at Atheina and says "There is no traps but I can't open it. It is very difficult lock I suppose. I think we can try to break it."

Calthos helps Wandan to break the drawer.

Atheina nods at Wandan and signals him to step back as she pulls her fist back and punches at the lock with her gauntlet fist.

Wandan do as Atheina signaled. Wandan takes few steps back and watch Atheina

Atheina punches at the lock but did little then a dent in the drawer.

Thaddeus picks up the rock.

Atheina shurgs at the lock. "Someone else give it a go?"

[Calthos]: "I can try"

Wandan approaches and tries to break the lock.

Atheina steps back and look as the others gives the lock a go.

The entire tower is shaken,as a bright white light envelopes,then explodes from Thadeus' body.You are all blinded for a few minutes,and when your eyes realign themselves,you can see Thadeus kneeling on the ground naked. Thaddeus covers himself quickly.

Calthos looks around confused.

Wandan looks at Thaddeus amazed... then approaches carefuly and asks "What happened..."

[Calthos]: "The rock?"

Thaddeus looks stunned. "I-I- The rock, yes! I don't know what happened..."

Wandan looks at him "What about your magic. You can't still use it?"

[Calthos]: "Hmm perhaps you can use magic now again."

Thaddeus looks at the group, then perks up. "Weavebane!"

[Thaddeus]:" I think I can use my magic."

Calthos turns around to Wandan and says "Do you need any help with the lock?"

Atheina says "You still have your spell books and such Thad? Besides that yaking dagger of course."

Wandan smiles "Well I can try to break it again. At least we have found the secret about the magic, arent we."

Calthos nods at Wandan "Yes, but would be interessting to see what is in the drawer."

The stone Thaddeus grasped lies on the floor.It has become the color of blood.

Wandan nods "All right. I'll try it."Wandan open the drawers and hands clothes to Thad.

Atheina scoops the stone with a gauntlet hand and examines it. "Whatever this is, it seems to target mainly on mages."

Thaddeus takes the most beautiful one.

Wandan tries to break the lock with his dagger.

[Thaddeus]: "Any shoes or breeches?"

[Calthos]: "I wouldnt touch the rock"
.
[Thaddeus]: "Hand me sandals."

Wandan gives Thaddeus all he could find in drawers

Thaddeus puts on sandals

Atheina says "Might want to try detecting magic in this room and the room below Thad." as she pockets the stone.

[Thaddeus]: "What if I touch the rock again? Maybe I'll get my things back...My spellbook is gone! All I can cast is Magic Missle.Atheina, let me touch it again. I really need all my items!"

Atheina looks at thaddeus sympathically. "Well lets see what is in the lock drawer." and tosses the rock to Thaddeus.

Thaddeus doesn't try to catch it. Thaddeus moves toward it and picks it up.

There is another blinding flash of light,as Thaddeus once again grasps the stone.When the light subsides,the Mage is gone.

Wandan after some time breakes the lock and opens the drawer.

Calthos looks around "Hmm, perhaps he got his items now back...but where?"

Wandan looks at Calthos "I did it." than turns to the Thaddeus and says "Wow... that was something."

Atheina looks at the stone and shakes her head "Well wish him luck." and picks up the stone carrying it in her hand for the moment.

Calthos smiles at Wandan "Great, lets see what we find in there".
The drawer contains two fine spellbooks,a ring,a pair of slippers,and a journal.

Calthos examines the ring.

Wandan smiles "Well there are very interesting things here. I suppose Thaddeus could use this."

Atheina nod. "Just as i expected. Spellbooks. He could have gotten this as replacements.Lets just grab them and go."

Calthos says "We can pick it up, maybe we find him somewhere alive."

Wandan shows the book to Calthos "Can You read this. Or anyone here?"

Atheina shakes her head at Wandan. "I am a fighting priestess. Reading isn't my specialty"

Calthos says "let me see" and takes the book from Wandan.

Wandan takes slippers examines them carefly and puts them on.

Atheina says "Lets just take it along." and heads down the stairs.

The slippers are very comfortabl.Once Wandan puts them on,he notices many small barbs protruding from the bottom of each slipper.

Calthos hands the book back to Wandan.

Wandan tries to climbs up the wall with them Wandan finds that he can walk on the wall as easily as he walks on the ground.

Calthos walks outside to the raft.

Wandan laughs and says "Now this is something. I am sorry for the mage so he can't see this."

Thaddeus runs inside to get sandles and a robe. After they are on, he returns.

Wandan examines the ring and puts it on while pack the slippers in his backpack.

[Thaddeus]: "Ummm, hello, Calthos..."

Wandan looks at the rest and says "If anyone wan't spellbooks or the ring he can take it, I'll take the slippers."

Calthos looks at Thaddeus "Oh, you are back. What happened to you?"

Thaddeus looks at the Spellbooks and ring. "I'll take those."

Wandan nods "All right. Can You tell me is it magical ring?"

[Thaddeus]: "Maybe, let me see it."

Wandan hands him over spellbook and the ring.