Session 30

Menzoberranzan

Heroes: Ruthinn, Tarkin, Thoradin

Having recovered one more of the components needed by Vizeran, the Heroes return to the archmage, though they still have some doubts. The drow wizard plans to unleash the ritual in Menzoberranzan, where many thousands will die. Thoradin still believes the ritual should be performed in some place less populated, but Vizeran insists that Menzoberranzan is the only place where he can be sure the ritual will be successful.

While Vizeran creates the amulet of the Dark Heart, the Heroes return to Greywall keep to enjoy some rest before the final steps of their journey. Tarkin contacts Prothanter, the ancient golden dragon that helped the Greywall brothers during the Rise of Tiamat. He seeks the counsel of the powerful creature, and also warns him of the impending danger. Prothanter warns the Heroes against the deceptions of the dark elves.

When the Heroes return to the Tower of Araj, Vizeran gives them the Dark Heart. They will have to place it in the same spot where the ritual book of Gromph Baenre can be found, inside the tower of Sorcere in Menzoberranzan. Once the amulet is in place, they must return to him with the book, and he will unleash the ritual upon the drow city.

The Heroes travel to Menzoberranzan, magically disguised as dark elves. They make their way through several sections of the city, when sudden disaster strikes. Dark wraiths rise from the ground in great numbers, slaughtering drow and slaves alike. They are the harbingers of Orcus, demon lord of undeath. As the giant form of Orcus makes its way to Sorcere, the Heroes attract its attention, and battle is joined. The demon lord seems to have the upper hand in the beginning, but when the Heroes manage to organize and combine their efforts, not even the great Orcus can resist them.

After a bloody battle, Thoradin punches the demon lord one last time in the jaw with his magical Bigby's Hand, and mighty Orcus falls in defeat.