The upper level of the Hammerhand clanhold turns out to be the home of some nasty creatures, referred to as “giant cave chickens” but are known to more informed monster hunters as archaierai. Unfortunately Hammer succumbs to the barbarian rage while battling the archaierai and, after dispatching his opponent, severely injures Xander. He continues to attack his friends until Ransook drops him with a well-placed arrow. After making sure the other party members are healed, Willow brings back Hammer to the verge of consciousness. The following day, Hammer promises not to let that happen again (any time soon).
The next level below reveals the true identity of the Hammerhand’s foe: a sub-race of dwarves called draugr, or “Deep Dwarves.” Long ago the draugr abandoned the dwarf gods in favor of diabolical powers. In return they gained access to dark magics, including the ability to create fields of silence around themselves, causing no end of havoc to the spellcasters in the group.
The session ends with the group having dispatched the crew of the dwarven forge, and are eagerly looking to complete their search for the Celestine mirror.
CK Notes
PC’s present: Xander, Xane, Ransook, Frankie, Willow, Hanthil, Violet, Hammer
All participants receive 578 XP, with Hanthil getting the XP bonus of 250.
