Our intrepid heroes ventured further through the eerie depths of the vaults. Their path led them to a chamber inhabited by morlocks, including one distinguished in regal attire. This imposing figure, Graulgust, spoke in Aklo, a language only Thumper could decipher.
Graulgust introduced himself as the leader of the Ghost Queen morlocks and proposed an alliance to our heroes. Thumper, tactfully omitting mention of the Ghost Queen to his allies, indicated their willingness to collaborate. Graulgust tasked them with vanquishing a water monster near the boat docks, promising a great reward in return.
Asterion retrieved the head of a drake, impressing Graulgust with their prowess, and earned the title of lackeys of the Ghost Queen. Graulgust then guided them through his home, offering a stark choice: surrender their gear to serve the Ghost Queen truly or descend the stairs to slaughter “heretic ghouls.” Thumper’s persuasive yet deceptive words led Graulgust to dismiss them, but Torren, sensing malice, grappled with Graulgust, initiating a frantic chase.
Our heroes managed to corner Graulgust, leading to a fierce battle with the morlocks and a grotesque wailing creature, who died releasing an explosion of digestive acid. Continuing their exploration, they uncovered hidden rooms and staircases, encountering a vengeful spirit and a colossal purple worm’s carcass, which concealed a magical hammer.
Thumper touched a mysterious skull which moved the entire room down a floor, to the previously unopenable doors, and dioramas in a hallway revealed deadly traps. Asterion fell prey to one, while the others pressed on, confronting a demanding creature. Thumper’s diplomacy turned into combat, ending with the creature’s plea for mercy and an offer of treasure.
Asterion discovered a silver sword-cane, and the group found gems within clockworks, clashing with another devil who pleaded for its life in exchange for a memory. Asterion’s swift judgment left no room for mercy.
The adventurers opened a door to a familiar green light, which formed the cryptic message “I was Otari… save me from below!” on the wall before leading them deeper. The light guided them to reassembling minotaur bones, which they swiftly grabbed some before retreating, preventing the creature from fully assembling. The chase for answers continued as the light led them back to the enigmatic source they first encountered.