Session 79: The Reverend Monastery

General Summary

The companions of Shining Eclipse members of the adventure guild known as Acquisitions Incorporated Franchise K leave the city of Rivendell at the request of Dame Vaeriel Sunwhisper to go to the Revered Garden Monastery. The duke of Rivendell Faelor Elrond also ask to go. The duke will inform the group that it has been many moons since he has visited the monastery. The trip takes a half days travel to reach the location. Each member of the group was given a unicorn to ride, but 4no carts or wagons were allowed to go to the monastery. Along the way Dagwyn, Conan, and Zandi were able to see the secret markings that let to the monastery. From the outside, The Revered Garden Monastery appears as a tranquil sanctuary of healing and learning. It is a place where nature flourishes in perfect harmony with ancient wisdom. Carefully cultivated gardens bloom with exotic flora, many species gifted by the druids of the land. The air is rich with the scent of lavender, honeysuckle, and ancient healing herbs, while crystal-clear streams wind through the monastery’s vast courtyards. The monastery is tended by a diverse group of caretakers—Wood Elves, Halflings, Humans, Centaurs, Firbolgs, and Sun Elves—who uphold its mission of healing, scholarship, and enlightenment. Here, the sick and weary find solace, treated by renowned clerics and healers. It is one of the most well-respected centers of learning in all of North and South Azure, a place where monarchs and noble families send their children to be educated in the rich and complex histories of the realms. But to the trained eye the workers who wear scarlet and gold robes seemed more that just workers. Once on the property Reba, Pepper, and Sarah suddenly walked out of forest and on to the property. Four of the robed figures head to Dame Vaeriel in a discreet manner, but one who is trained could tell they were approaching as body guards. Even the Dukes personal body guards surrounded him. Reba, talking to Sarah as if nothing is going on teaching Sarah about the Monastery in Draconic. These monasteries were created by King Arthur as safe havens for the Dovahkiin and a way to travel without being seen. The Order of the Phoenix was known by the people back then but they did not parade around announcing themselves unless they needed to. The girls stop look at the party Pepper and Reba greet Vaeriel in Draconic telling her that it is good to see her again after so many Centuries. You can tell your aspirants to stand down before somebody gets hurt. Then in Elvish they greet the Duke saying pretty much the same thing. Then they continue on into the monastery as if nothing is happening with Reba continuing to teach Sarah in Draconic.

Once inside the manner of the monastery they were looking at a spitting image of the Manner on Harker island. Everyone knew if the lay out was the same they would know where the secret door to the stairs that would lead to the underground complex of the Order of the Phoenix. Dame Vaeriel assured the party that there would be time for that she wanted to show them check out the monastery it self before going to the grand prize. They met her Majordomo an half-Orc by the name of Todark. This peaked the interest of Dagwyn once again was trying to play match maker for her friend Zayrdi. Todark informed Dame Vaeriel of the three women who just walked in to the monastery headed to the Library of Ages and have not been seen since. Security has been alerted. Vaeriel looked at the Half-Orc to tell security to stand down that it was all right. She would explain later. Vaeriel asked her Majordomo to set up a staff meeting in the chapel at the 16th hour. Then the lunch bell chimed and visitors, scholars, children, and workers headed to the Grand dining hall for lunch. This dining was was set up differently than family dining hall at Harker's manner. Instead of a grand dining room table there were several long tables with benches were set up for people to eat. On the east end of the room table were set up with a banquet style full of roasted meats, vegetables, and Elvin pastries. The food was fantastic around the table set scholars and students talking about the days history lessons before lunch. Visitors talking about beautiful gardens or the great healing centers around the campus of the monastery.

As the party was eating there food a heated discussion could be overheard by all in the dining room. Three hobbits by the name of Milo Tealeaf , Tobin Goodbarrel and Renova Stormwalker. The heated discussion was between
Tobin and Milo as Renova just sat there sipping on her tea. The heart of the discussion was if a halfling could be chosen as a Dovahkiin. Milo argument was that history has shown the the Dovahkiin chose only humans and Elf's because of their might in battle and magic. Tobin argument counter was that what's recorded in history and maybe is biased againts the hobbits. Reminding Tobin that the ten-day before the professor had taught them that one of the guardians is a protector of the hobbits. Sitting between them, Renova Stormwalker, the quietest of the three, cradles her cup of steaming herbal tea, watching them with a bemused expression. Her freckles wrinkle slightly as she suppresses a knowing smile. She’s seen these two go at it before, and she’s certain neither will back down easily. Milo scoffs, rolling his eyes. "Maybe the Dovahkiin just pitied halflings? We’re not exactly known for raising armies or taming dragons.". Tobin throws up his hands. "Oh, come off it! We may not be sword-wielding giants, but we’re fast, clever, and fearless when it counts!" He gestures broadly, nearly toppling a nearby candleholder. Renova finally sets down her tea with a soft clink, her usual calm, measured tone cutting through the heated discussion. "Who says that history can't be changed? What if a hobbit was chosen?" She pauses, her hazel eyes flicking between her two friends before shifting toward the far end of the dining hall. A flicker of recognition passes over her face as she spots a familiar figure—the unmistakable silhouette of her uncle. A quiet realization washes over her, though she keeps her expression neutral. "Maybe history has changed, but we don’t know about it yet. A halfling has been chosen, but due to the nature of the Order, it has not been revealed."Milo and Tobin both fall silent, considering her words, but Renova remains distant in thought. Around them, the hall hums with the quiet clatter of dishes and low voices as lunch comes to an end. Yet, in this small corner of the Revered Garden Monastery, a different weight lingers in the air. She lowers her gaze, her heart pounding with a truth she cannot share—not yet. History can change, and perhaps one day, a halfling will stand among the ranks of the Dovahkiin. But for now, she can only glance at her uncle, knowing the truth that remains hidden from even her closest friends. He has been chosen—chosen by hobbit Guardian Puff—and that secret must stay buried a little while longer. But as she takes a steadying breath, a surge of emotion overwhelms her. She straightens, her voice clear and unwavering, yet filled with pride. "Follow me," she says, her eyes shining. "Let me introduce you to my uncle, Arceven—the halfling who stood before the Queen of Dragons and intimidated her in front of all the kings and queens of the realm. A true hero of North Azure!" The hall stills as her words echo through the space, curious onlookers turning their heads. Gasps and murmurs ripple through the scholars and students alike. Renova can no longer contain herself. With tears of joy and pride welling in her eyes, she bolts down the length of the hall, her feet barely touching the stone floor as she rushes toward him. She throws her arms around her uncle in an embrace, unbothered by the many eyes now watching, listening, whispering. The weight of history and secrecy may still rest upon them, but in this moment, none of it matters—only the undeniable truth that a hobbit has already made history.

After lunch the party members had about three hours to roam the grounds of the monastery. Then they were front and center in the chapel at the 16th hour as Dame Vaeriel Sunwhisper stands a the Podium to announce the following to the staff members of the Revered Garden Monastery. "Aspirants, support staff, and scholars of the Order of the Phoenix—faithful stewards of this sacred monastery—I stand before you today in honor of your unwavering dedication. For generations, you have kept the fires of our Order burning in secrecy, carrying out your duties even when the Dovahkiin and their mighty dragons had long vanished from our skies. You have upheld the traditions, preserved the knowledge, and safeguarded the sanctity of this Order when the world believed it to be nothing more than legend. And for that, you have my deepest gratitude." "The King has officially decreed the reinstatement of the Order of the Phoenix. No longer will we remain a whisper in the shadows or a forgotten chapter of history. Our purpose, once set aside, has been restored. And behind me, sitting upon this very bench, are those who will lead us into this new era. Our Supreme Commander, our Executive Officer, our High Priestess, and the Officers of the Wings—all here, preparing to guide us forward toward the destiny we once thought lost." "But this is not the only revelation of the day. Among us, in this very chapel, stand three bonded Dovahkiin—living proof that the dragons have returned and that the bond between rider and beast has been forged once more. The world will soon awaken to a new reality, but we must remain as steadfast and vigilant as ever." A hush falls, the enormity of the moment settling deep into the bones of every person present. "And now, it is time to meet the one who will lead us into this new dawn. It is my honor to introduce Supreme Commander Dimmir. He stands before you not just as a leader but as living proof that the dragons have chosen to forge a new path—one where race is no longer a barrier to worthiness. The old world saw only humans and elves take to the skies. But today, the dragons choose those who are worthy, no matter their lineage." As her final words echo through the chamber, the gathered members of the Order snap to attention, their scarlet and gold robes flowing as they straighten in perfect unison. The air is thick with reverence and anticipation. Then, with steady, deliberate steps, a Satyr approaches the podium—the new Supreme Commander of the Order of the Phoenix. His cloven hooves echo across the stone floor as he strides forward with an air of quiet authority. His horns, adorned with subtle gilded markings, gleam in the warm candlelight. With every step, the weight of his new station settles upon him, yet he carries it with the confidence of one who was born for this moment. The gathered assembly watches in breathless silence as he reaches the podium, placing his hands upon its worn wooden surface. His gaze sweeps across the sea of devoted followers, warriors, and scholars before him, all awaiting his first words as the leader of the reborn Order.

At the eighteenth hour, the manor gates swing open once more, the deep toll of the dinner bell echoing through the monastery's grand halls. A palpable shift lingers in the air—an unspoken yet undeniable transformation that even those absent from the earlier gathering can feel. Throughout the monastery, from the dormitories to the libraries, from the training yards to the sanctuaries, students, scholars, clerics, druids, and monks sense the difference. The very walls of the manor seem to breathe with renewed purpose, the weight of long-kept silence lifting ever so slightly. The men and women in scarlet and gold robes, once marked by the quiet burden of secrecy, now carry themselves with a newfound resolve. Their expressions remain composed, their secrets still well-guarded, yet something in their eyes has changed—a spark, a quiet fire, a purpose rekindled. Among them, Renova sits in the dining hall, her heart swelling with pride. Though she had not been present at the chapel meeting, she knows. She can feel it in the air, in the energy coursing through the monastery, in the hushed yet eager whispers of those who had gathered. Tears slip freely down her cheeks, a mixture of joy, relief, and an emotion she cannot yet put into words. Across from her, Milo and Tobin exchange a glance, shaking their heads as they watch her silently wipe at her tears between bites of food. "Why are girls so emotional?" Milo mutters under his breath, nudging his plate forward. Tobin snorts, stabbing a piece of roasted meat with his fork. "No idea. Must be some secret they keep from us." Before Renova can respond, Ivo, her younger brother, places a firm hand on Milo’s shoulder. His grip is not harsh, but the weight of his presence alone silences the teasing. "Leave her be. You may not understand now, but in time, you will." His voice carries a quiet strength, his eyes gleaming with the same pride that swells in Renova’s chest. He looks at her, the corners of his lips lifting just slightly. He knows why she feels this way—because he feels it too. Their uncle, Arceven, the first hobbit Dovahkiin, has changed the course of history. For centuries, hobbits had been overlooked, their potential unseen. But no longer. The world had shifted today. And though the weight of secrecy still loomed over them, the truth would not remain hidden forever. Despite their words, despite their teasing, neither can quite bring themselves to say more. Because even they, for all their jest, can feel it too. Something has changed. And there is no going back.

After dinner, Vaeriel Sunwhisper leads you through the dimly lit halls of the monastery, flanked by Inawynn Greenriver, Vethmay Vorst, Camellia Took, and Ayduin Elrond. Their expressions are solemn, their footsteps nearly silent against the polished stone floors. The group arrives before the Library of Ages, its towering oak doors sealed shut. The air is thick with anticipation. All nonessential staff have been dismissed, and not even the Duke of the House of Elrond is permitted entry. Vaeriel gives a slow nod, and with quiet reverence, Camellia Took steps forward. Without a word, she approaches one of the towering bookshelves, her small hands brushing over the ancient tomes. Then, lifting the hem of her robe, she reveals a hidden tattoo—the unmistakable Dragon Mark. It glows faintly in the flickering candlelight, its intricate design mirroring the marks that many of you bear on your hands. As she presses her marked skin against the aged wood, there is a soft click. A deep rumbling echoes through the chamber, and the bookshelf trembles before slowly shifting aside, revealing a hidden passageway behind it. Beyond the threshold, a spiral staircase of carved stone descends into the depths, its steps worn smooth by centuries of careful treading. A familiar sight—one eerily similar to the hidden passage in Harker’s Manor. The air grows cooler, carrying with it the scent of parchment, aged wood, and something else—something ancient, powerful, and long kept secret. Without hesitation, Vaeriel steps forward, her voice steady. "This way. The Order of the Phoenix has waited long enough." And with that, you follow them into the hidden chambers below.

Rewards Granted

The following experience points have been awarded to:

  • 700 points to Arceven, Dagon, Dagwyn, Dimmir, Jasmal, Karrin, Marik, Zandi, and Zayrdi.
  • 500 points to Raz' Thrak. and Conan
  • 75 Bonus points Marik (Recap)
  • 50 Bonus Points Jasmal (Recap)
  • 25 Bonus Points to Dagon (Recap)

Character(s) interacted with

  • A female wood elf by the name of  Inawynn greenriver
  • A human male by the name of Vethmay Vorst
  • A Female halfling by the name of Camellia Took
  • A male wood elf by the name of Ayduin Elrond
  • Todark Murphey (Male Half-Orc)
  • Dame Vaeriel Sunwhisper (Female Sun Elf)
  • Duke Faelor Elrond (Male Wood Elf)
  • Milo Tealeaf (Male Hobbit)
  • Tobin Goodbarrel (Male Hobbit)
  • Renova Stormwalker (Female Hobbit, niece of Arceven)
  • Ivo Stormwalker (Male Hobbit, Nephew of Arceven)

Campaign
The War for Soteropolis
Protagonists
Dagon Innsmouth
R̶e̶d̶a̶c̶t̶e̶d̶ R̶e̶d̶a̶c̶t̶e̶d̶ ( R̶e̶d̶a̶c̶t̶e̶d̶)
R̶e̶d̶a̶c̶t̶e̶d̶ 7
54 / 54 HP
STR
7
DEX
16
CON
16
INT
13
WIS
18
CHA
14
Conan Enamed
()
8 / 8 HP
STR
DEX
CON
INT
WIS
CHA
Raz'Thrak Bloodhoof
Zandi Ottore
Dagwyn Oakencrown
Chaotic Neutral High Elf (Charlatan)
Rogue 5
Ranger 2
48 / 48 HP
STR
13
DEX
18
CON
15
INT
10
WIS
15
CHA
13
Snoopy Baron
Dimmir “Brightlight”
Chaotic Neutral Satyr (Revelry Bouncer )
Barbarian 7
63 / 73 HP
STR
15
DEX
20
CON
15
INT
12
WIS
13
CHA
17
Pyfor GreenDragonFly
Report Date
27 Mar 2025
Primary Location
Secondary Location

Comments

Please Login in order to comment!