Through the Portal

After a quick rest, we continue our exploration in the subterranean passages of the swamp castle.

One interesting beast we did encounter was a strange jelly-like blob that emerged from the damp darkness. Its merest touch seemed caustic to Vlad's weapon! I decided to again test out my new dagger when attacking, instead of risking my own hands and feet. We defeated it relatively easily. I wonder where these creatures come from?

The tunnels are filled with a mist, as it is very damp. We find some frog-people, who we more-or-less ignore. No sense in stirring up more trouble! We do see a room dedicated to three seemingly odd religions - Ghaundur (god of slimes), Shar (godess of shadows) and Ramenos (ancient "enemy" in slumber).

Eventually, we find a magic "portal"! Unfortunately, Leobin informs us that these are usually keyed with a magic activation phrase, which we don't have. Since Rezmir probably had it, and because we didn't actually finish exploring the castle, we decide to return and scour Rezmir's residence for clues.

Back at the castle, Vlad decides to do some re-decorating, namely placing the statues in a new location - 3 storeys down - by way of the window. I'll never understand that 1/2-orc's sense of style. Actually, I'll never understand that 1/2-orc at all. But, he does fight well!

We do find some paperwork, such as reports from Boringray to Rezmor, detailing fortifications and tribute to black dragon in swamp, by the name of Voaraghamanthar. Sounds interesting to know a dragon's name, no? Oh, we also discover the passphrase is DRAEZIR.

We rest, heal, restock from the kitchens, and return to the portal.

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At the other side is a lodge, in a mountain valley. The chimneys are in use, but the building and area seem overgrown. One out-building is a barn, and when we investigate the 2nd out-building, we disturb a 4-armed troll with a small (ambush drake) dragon! Aberard is literally torn to pieces before my very eyes, in one single ghastly attack! After the battle, I stabilize him, but it takes him a while to recover.

Leobin, to everyone's surprise, has taken a liking to a white wolf cloak with mithril clasp. In truth, he looks... Well, 'nough said.

Inside the main building, it seems strangely deserted. Vlad finds some wonderful full-plate armour. But then he get it scratched up when we meet up with an animated suit of plate armour! Will his suit suddenly animate with him in it?