After pondering the two doors, the group decided to investigate the interior door that led to the tower. They found the monk Melchin and battled him. After a fairly short, but somewhat challenging battle, the group defeated him.
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When Melchin was defeated the group did another pass through the ruins to make sure they hadn't missed anything. After stashing their gear in the stable, they then went through the secret door. They discovered another secret door which led to a hidden room. The hidden room had apparently been empty for many years. Another door was found that led to a set of stairs that went up. After resting and meditating, the group went into the room beyond the secret room. They found an owl bear skeleton which came to life when they got close. They defeated the animated skeleton after a short battle. They then went to the secret room to rest again, came back and fought the big guy for the level, Ikenvar. Some well used grease spells helped to keep Ikenvar from doing too much damage. The body was searched and goodies were found, the group then went to explore the secret area.
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The ladder went up a considerable distance into the ceiling and a trap door was found. The group hooked themselves by rope and ascended the ladder. On the other end they found a rust spider who proceeded to eat Coravel's rapier. The group defeated the spider and then went up to the second level where blood hawks hung out, got attacked, defeated them, cleaned out the loot. Final level, found a human, got in a sleep spell, was able to take him out. Found a raven with a note on its leg. Made their way down the hill and loaded up the wagon.
nThe group headed back to Cillamar where they stopped the tavern. Kaylord proceeded to damage a table, they also got more information about possible slaver connections in town, session stopped there.
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The group started in town and got a fuller briefing. After getting the information about the raven, suspicions about Umberwood and a lead on a reward, the group split up to find out more information. They also spent their gold stocking up on upgraded armor, weapons and other such items. Quis'Ari also talked to a fortune teller in town and received news of a reward if she and the group were able to bring back an Orc's head. They hired a minion, Theraga, to help guard their wagon and items while they explored the castle. She was able to get the wagon fixed with a sturdy lockbox and the cage removed for a lower price.
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After gathering the information, the group decided to do some scouting to try and smoke out Umberwood. After some time in a seedy tavern, they tracked down Umberwood, and captured him and his minions. They received a reward from the council and a recognition of the greater experience they now had.
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