The Khenvor Kronicles - Entering Khenvor

 The rain continued to come down in droves this evening. From where I was positioned I decided now was as good as time as any to make my way to the main gate of Khenvor. I used my stealth but could not help being drawn to the fires before me. I stayed in tune with my surroundings and was fully aware of all movement in the area. I approached the first blazing fire. It was surrounded by three Gulgrethor Soldiers. Through the flames I could see faint outline of what appeared to be a ghost-like figure. This was totally beyond my understanding. As I came upon the second blazing fire I see a different ghost-like figure. What dark magic is this? I thought to myself. 

I surveyed my surroundings and proceeded up the road towards the main gate. Finally the main gate and walls of the city of Khenvor came in to view through the fog and pouring rain.
Not much different that the entrance to Gwarn's Boundary.

I waited till morning before I approached the gate. There I saw a female Goblin, Gatemaster Parba. She was adorned in an orange tinted robe flanked by a Gulgrethorian Soldier. I could feel my pulse quicken but I had to remain calm. Before I could introduce myself she told me who she was. She let me know she was in charge of all who pass this gate in to Khenvor. I handed her my forged papers. She stared at my face with searching eyes. After a few moments, she relaxed, then explained that Khenvor belongs to Clan Gulgrethor and that they are ruled by the will of Vilonis, leader of Clan Gulgrethor.

She continued that there was much work to do in Khenvor and that if I am to work here I was required to wear a worker's tunic at all times. If at any time I was not wearing my tunic I would be considered hostile and attacked on sight. Once inside she instructed me to to speak with Taskmaster Zow at the dock entrance for further orders. Now I had a problem as I did not have a worker's tunic. I took my leave of Parba and began to look around for any workers in the area. Throughout most of the day I spotted workers about but the Gulgrethor Overseer's were patrolling about the region. Then walking along the timber wall of the city I came across a Goblin Lackey. Under stealth I walked up behind the lackey and dispatched him quickly. I then donned the worker's tunic. The material was thin and ragged, not too mentioned it smelled of Goblin sweat. I approached the gate and proceeded through heading down the road towards the docks. The evening came upon the land again and the rain began to fall yet again.

The Khenvor Khronicles - The Road to Khenvor

Under the veil of darkness I departed the tracker camp and headed south to Khenvor. The road to the south is barely visible during daylight.

I tried to stay to the road the best I could. I could see the Glade Dancers darting across the forest floor. I could not however see the Yellowback Recluse spiders and the Foreststalkers in the pitch dark. Though I traveled under stealth I wondered how long before I would be in for the fight of my life without being able to see. At times I would hear a branch crack or the sounds of rustling leaves not too far away.

At one point I froze still as the forest seemed to move around me. When the sound got further away I proceeded slowly. I walked into a large rock formation hitting my head. I felt woozy for a bit but continued onward. I walked in to many trees as well. Not sure if my nose is broken or not.

In the distance I saw rising flames from a roaring campfires. Focused on the flames I almost walked right in to the path of two Glade Dancers. I made my way over to a large rock and stood observing the area for hours. The daylight came and I could see a Gulgrethor lookout walking his patrol. When daylight finally came I laid low along the mountains edge. 

Behind me was an overgrown tree. This is where I decided to

make my camp. When I got under the tree I was immediately attacked by a Foreststalker. Who I dispatched rather quickly and quietly as not to draw attention from other creatures let alone the Gulgrethor Lookouts that scoured this region of the Wildgrowth Forest. Then the rains came, I was in for a long night. I could not start a fire as to draw attention to myself. I began to shiver as the unrelenting rain pounded down to the earth. Tomorrow I head to Khenvor. I will pray to the Gods that they are with me and I am successful. The fate of Telon may depend on it.

I took some time to review the crude drawing of Khenvor that Tracker Nok had given to me.

The Khenvor Khronicles - The Beginning

Sometimes one finds himself in a difficult position of having to make a grave decision. In recent weeks I have completed diplomatic missions for the Martok Orc Clan. I was awarded with the title "Speaker of Martok" from none other than Governor Jalixfin of Martok himself. I even went as far as to solicit the help of my halfling peers, the Halfling Explorer Group, in aiding the Orcs by delving in to the Gardens of Xia'Liu. A most challenging excursion that nearly cost us our very lives. And now it has been requested that the HEG assist the Martok Invasion Force by finding the missing agents and performing covert operations as necessary, at the Gulgrethor Fortress in the Sundering Wastelands of the Kojan Isles. I have already requested assistance from my peers. The danger here is very real. These two factions basically have the same agenda. Though it would appear the Gulgrethor Orcs are farther in their progress than the Martok Orc Clan. As the Gulgrethor Orcs have managed to infiltrate Trengal Keep on the continent of Thestra. One faction stands in the way of the other. So basically I am left with choosing the lesser of two evils here as to which side to assist. As long as each our formidable adversaries they will keep each other at bay. This stalemate keeps them from obtaining their ultimate goal of the total domination of Telon. That leaves one to wonder what ever would happen if they combined forces. That's a thought I'd rather not think about.


Days ago I obtained orders from Gwarn's Boundary and Martok regarding the Gulgrethor Fortress in which I dispatched a courier as for a request for help. While I was in Martok I was pulled aside by Governor Jalixfin. The Governor told me of the Gulgrethor fleet that has been plaguing the shores of Martok
for far too long. He said while they haven't managed to push close enough to Martok to threaten the city, they have made things difficult for the Clan on the seas. He spoke of the Orc they called Fleet Commander Mag'Uthor, who is largely responsible for the planning of these attacks. He called for the head of the Fleet Commander and it is to be brought to Headhunter Dostra in Gulkar's Encampent. His instructions were clear that this mission could only be carried out by a single adventurer as to not draw suspicion, nor attention as a group of adventurer's would.

After a night's rest in the Hostel of the Uninvited at the nearby village of Gaxton, I set out south for the Tracker's Camp in the Wildgrowth Forest. I plan to rest again there and gather some of the latest information on the Gulgrethor Orcs from Tracker Nod before heading south to Khenvor. Once at the camp I asked how to get to Khenvor without being detected. He looked back at me and stated that he was aware of my covert mission in Khenvor. He suggested I only moved at night and observe the patrol movements for a few days. It  would not be easy to infiltrate and investigate Khenvor as it is heavily guarded and would be difficult to slip through. That being said he commented that my resourcefulness and experience would make

me the perfect spy to get inside. He presented me with a set of forged documents to take to the Gulgrethor Gate Master Parba at the city gates of Khenvor. These documents would allow me to work as a lackey there and find out exactly the Gulgrethor are up to. I did not rest well at the Tracker Camp that day. All kinds of thoughts raced through my mind. When the dark overtook that last bit of daylight I began my journey to Khenvor.

Martok - Man on a Mission

The next day I decided to take a ride up to Martok. I have earned some degree of respect from the orcs during my diplomatic assignments in Martok a few weeks ago. So I figured I was safe enough to make the trek. On the trail to Martok I stopped at Gwarn's Boundary for some food and drink. There was not a drop of Chilled Pear Wine to be found anywhere in the compound. 

A goblin walked up to me and said, "Halfling, are you Waylian, Speaker of Martok?" I nodded in acknowledgement but was a bit reserved. "The Great General Zowt of Gwarn's Boundary requests an audience with you, halfling.", he stated. I followed the goblin in to the main structure of the compound. We came to a ramp which lead to a second level. The goblin pointed to the General and then took his leave of me. I paced slowly up the ramp till I reached the second level. I took a moment to compose myself and proceeded forward. Then I heard a deep voice say "Would you give your life for Martok Halfling? Such is the commitment I require from my army." I did not know how to respond as it has never occurred to me to ponder that question. "Waylian Silvershaper, Speaker of Martok, at your service General." I responded, while bowing low.

"Waylian, I have heard you are one of the best independent

operatives. I have been told of great tales involving you and the Halfling Explorer Group's excursions in to the Gardens of Xia'liu, Wailing Winds Asylum and the Arks of Harmony. A few days ago, I sent agents to the Gulgrethor Fortress to determine their strength.I expected there return five days ago. I need you to gather your team and find out what happened to my agents. Help them if they are still alive." he paused a brief second then continued. "Warchief Zowb would like a chance to meet with you in Martok. I would not keep him waiting very long." With that I bowed low and made a hasty exit.

I rode through the gates of Martok in a flash and headed straight for the Chamber of the War Council. A guard escorted me in to the chamber. Standing before me was the Warchief himself Zowb. There was a sense about him, a sense of strength and determination. "Waylian Silvershaper, Speaker of Martok, at your service, Warchief." again bowing low. He looked down upon me. 

"Ye know we prepare for a great battle with the wretched

Gulgrethor. The upcoming battle will be fought well and filled with much blood and glory. However, as long as Deathlord Vilonis lives, the Gulgrethor will threaten to strike back." the look on his faced hardened, "I WILL NOT HAVE THIS!" he barked while shaking his fist in the air. "Defeat him and the Gulgrethor will break. Bring me proof of his death and I will reward you and your fellow adventurer's." I nodded then bowed low before taking my leave of the Warchief. 

I quickly went to the Hostel of the Uninvited at Gaxton Village and penned a parchment to my fellow Halflings of the Halfling Explorer Group. I gave the parchment to a local runner whom I have used for previous urgent matters. The runner also carried a letter to my dear Quilyassa.

Martok to Gwarn's Boundary

While in Martok it seemed my diplomatic prowess had

proceeded me. General Zewg was seeking an audience with me. I went to him as soon as I got the word. I introduced myself, as if I really needed to. There are no other halflings in this area. I bowed low. "I have heard about what you have accomplished for Martok thus far Waylian, and I believe you can serve us well. That said I have a task for you.", he bellowed. "Take this scroll to Commander Jumg at Gwarn's Boundary. These orders are for his eyes only, based on what I have heard about you, I can trust you with them...do not betray my trust." With that I bowed low and took my leave, departing Martok immediately.

Upon reaching Gwarn's Boundary I asked for Commander Jumg's location. I rushed up to him and bowed low, then introducing myself. I held out the scroll before him. The Commander snatched it from hand and glanced over it. An evil smile crept over his face. "You have proven yourself trustworthly and capable of delivering these to me, Waylian. Well done.", he said. "Since Commander Sagex and I are coordinating efforts within the Wildgrowth Forest, issues dealing with Gwarn's Boundary have been reassigned to Vise Garthog located in the tent just outside." Again I took my leave bowing low.

When I entered the tent the dark green orc with the bone

handled swords, beckoned me over to his side. "I have heard much about you Waylian. I have some tasks for you, but I suspect you will end up being too far valuable to our cause to remain around the Boundary for long.", he paused a moment "Waylain nothing strikes fear in the hearts of our enemy like a war painted Orc in full battle dress bearing down upon them. Venture east, and slay the Sharpbeaks for their blood. Return when you have filled these pouches. Also we are running dangerously low on our leather supplies here. I need you to bolster our supply by slaying anything that would yield you some leather."  I nodded and began to head out the tent.

I was stopped by a gray haired goblin. Commander Sagex

speak, "Two of our scouting patrols have not sent in their reports. I cannot express the importance of this information enough, Waylian. You must move quickly. This information could be worthless in a day. Scar Gergoth watches and patrols the south while Scar Veksag patrols the shore. Hurry I need these reports." 

Before I could turn to head out the tent again a mean looking goblin female grabbed me by the arm. "I need you to make contact with the trackers in the Wildgrowth Forest. Speak with Tracker Nod and see if he needs help." I looked around to see if anyone else was going to approach me and bolted for the exit to perform my assigned tasks.


I traveled south looking for Scar Gergoth who is out on patrol. After a short bit of tracking I came across him. I greeted him and stated my business per Commander Sagex. He stated he had been meaning to send it in. He gave me the sealed parchment the returned to his patrol.With that I proceed to the eastern shoreline to look for Scar Veksag and collect the items needed for Vise Garthog.

The first beast I encountered was the Sharpbeak. These were a close relative of the Sandrunners I have previously tangled with last week in Karrus Fahrel. These animals have a nasty attack with the sharpbeaks, so aptly named. However I do not know if these beasts taste like chicken or not.

After filling the pouches with sharpbeak blood, I ventured

on to the hillside. I was ambushed by Stalkers and Predators, battling one after the other. These large cat-like creatures struck at me with their powerful claws and razor sharp bites. With my cunning skills and reflexes I kept them at bay until I could find an opening for a strike. After downing a few cats I managed to

collect a few bits of leather. I looked to the eastern

shoreline as the dusk begins to loom over the daylight. I made my way through the area finding a few stags to kill to finish collecting the required amount of leather requested by Vise Garthog. I escaped impalement a few times in my engagements with these stags. Strong willed and stubborn creatures indeed.

Peering around a tree I saw a campfire. I approached the

camp and hailed Scar Veksag. He didn't know who I was so I

explained why I had come upon him. He shook his head and realized he almost forgot to turn in his report. He passed me the sealed parchment and I worked my way back to Gwarn's Boundary to finish my missions. 

All were pleased and I took my leave. I mounted up and set down the path to the south to the Trackers Camp in the Wildgrowth Forest.

Wildgrowth Forest - The Yukiona

After slaying many Foreststalkers and collecting Sprout Pods I returned back to the tracker camp. Lorhu seemed relieved by the news of the demise of so many Foreststalkers. Nok looked over the Sprout Pods, "These will do." He said. With that I thought I was done here however Nok informed me I could not leave just yet. There was more work to be done. 


Nok explained about the need to study the Dancers in the forest as well. Nok needed the Sprite Essence from these Dancers. I had seen these Dancers my first time out in the forest but stayed clear of them as much as possible. Strange creatures, like floating balls of energy darting across the landscape. This was no easy task. Especially with the other creatures roaming the forest. I did manage to collect the essence for further study. Nok was pleased with the samples before him. I thought I detected a bit of a smile, but then again maybe not. "I have one more job for you Waylian out in the forest", he smirked. You know that smirk that makes you nervous inside.

Nok began talking about the Yukiona in the area and how he was certain their shrines in the forest were not here before. He noted in the center of each Yukiona Shrine there was a lantern that contained a strange flame. I think Nok believed that the Yukiona some how obtained power from the flames to help them alter the forest. 

He then gave me a bag of powder to spread across the

flames at each shrine to weaken the Yukiona enough to strike out at them. I understood the plan and slaying the Yukiona is no easy feat. It was tough enough fighting them in the Gardens of Xia'Liu and the Arks of Harmony with the Halfling Explorer Group. But here I had to rely upon my own wit and skills to defeat these great foes. 

I was tested many times by the Yukiona in combat. Then I came across one Yukiona that was much stronger than the ones I had previously faced. This one casts spells I have never seen before and parried some of my best attacks. I maintained my focus even though I was getting worn down. I attacked with a flurry of strikes and created an opening. I spun around with my back to my opponent. As the Yukiona reached out to attack me I gripped my daggers and thrust them behind me deep into the creature's abdomen. I turned around slowly as my foe crumpled to the earth before me. Exhausted I began my return through the forest under stealth to the tracker camp for some much needed rest. 


Note!
The links included in the blog are to Morty's Journal regarding the Halfling Explorer Group's excursions. Stop by and read up on the adventures of the HEG.

Wildgrowth Forest - Tracker Camp

Today I took the rift from Khal to the Wildgrowth Forest on the continent of the Kojan Isles. Immediately I felt small, very small. The trees and vegetation were vastly overgrown compared to anything I ever seen before.

I got a faint whiff of smoke hit my nostrils. To my right I could see a flicker of flame from what appeared to be a campfire. I approached slowly and made my presence known as not to startle the Goblin and two Orcs before me. 

"Yeh must be Waylian, you are as you were described to me back at Gulkar's Encampment from Warseer Gulkar. I heard of you and your group's exploits at the Gardens of Xia'Liu. Well met fellow adventurer." she said in a strong but honoring tone, then continued. "I am Tracker Lorhu". 

"Greetings Lorhu, Waylian Silvershaper at your service." Waylain replied while bowing low. Turning to his left "And you ar----"

"NOK! Tracker Nok" the burly orc snapped.

"Greetings to you Nok, --" Waylian started.

"Yeah, yeah enough. Are you going to lend us a hand around here or make small talk?"  Nok interjected.

"Pay him no mind, he hasn't had much rest these past few days on watch." Lorhu quipped.

The Goblin stood quietly as if not to care in the slightest. We sat by the fire where the trackers informed me of the strange and odd things about the forest and the Yukonia influence here. I already knew of there influence and these

beings were not to be dismissed as a minor nuisance. Lorhu told me of a creature here that looks like vines and roots. She wanted me to slay as many as possibly to prevent them from spreading the pod trees in the area. 

Nok told me of the growing number of unusual pod trees. The large ones were too hard to cut down so he wanted me to collect some sprouts from the smaller pods. So I set out and to my chagrin these pod sprouts were taller than me. So off I went in to the Wildgrowth Forest.

One thing they never told me about was the spiders in the area. The very large Yellowback Recluse spiders, many of them. I am sure they just overlooked telling me.