Cheliax.
Chapter XII

The voyage begins
As the morning sun gently kissed the rooftops of Absalom, our heroes gathered at the harbor, preparing for their journey to Egorian, the capital of Cheliax. The city, vibrant and bustling with activity, served as the perfect starting point for their expedition. The sea, a vast expanse of glittering blue, promised tranquility and respite from their recent trials.
The boat, aptly named "The Serene Voyager," awaited them, its polished deck gleaming in the sunlight. The captain, an experienced sailor with a cheerful disposition, welcomed the adventurers aboard. With provisions stowed and sails unfurled, the journey began.
Sailing the Peaceful Waters
The voyage across the Inner Sea was as peaceful as the boat's name suggested. Gentle waves lapped against the hull, and the rhythmic sound of the ocean provided a soothing soundtrack to their travels. The adventurers took this time to reflect on their past exploits and to anticipate the challenges that lay ahead.
As they sailed, the sea revealed its many wonders. Playful dolphins danced in the boat's wake, and shimmering schools of fish swam alongside. The sky, a canvas of azure, was occasionally adorned with the wispy trails of seabirds, adding to the sense of serenity.
Approaching Egorian
As the days passed, the silhouette of Egorian began to emerge on the horizon. The city, renowned for its grandeur and dark elegance, stood as a testament to the power and influence of Cheliax. The adventurers felt a mix of anticipation and apprehension, knowing that their mission was fraught with peril.
The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the sea as The Serene Voyager approached the harbor. The city’s imposing architecture, with its spires and fortresses, seemed to whisper secrets of ancient power and shadowed intrigues.
Sailing the Peaceful Waters
Amidst the ceaseless whirl of activity in Absalom, our heroes find a moment of respite. Their journey has been long and arduous, filled with trials that tested their mettle and camaraderie. Now, within the quiet sanctuary of the Manticore's tale, a quaint inn tucked away in the Docks, they allow themselves the luxury of rest.
The inn is a haven of tranquility, with its warm hearth casting a gentle glow over the polished wooden floors and plush furnishings. The heroes gather around a sturdy oak table, sharing stories and laughter, their spirits buoyed by the camaraderie forged in adversity. The aroma of hearty stew and freshly baked bread fills the air, a comforting reminder of simpler pleasures.
In these quiet moments, they reflect on their adventures. Each scar and relic tells a story of courage and sacrifice. The wizard's grimoires speak of arcane mysteries unraveled, the ranger’s bow whispers of silent hunts through moonlit forests, and the paladin's shield gleams with the light of righteousness. They have earned this rest, a brief respite before the next chapter in their epic tale.
Absalom, with all its splendor and shadows, offers the perfect backdrop for their rest. Here, within the heart of the world, they gather strength and resolve, ready to face whatever destiny has in store. For every hero knows that rest is but a prelude to the next adventure, and within the walls of Absalom, countless tales are waiting to be told.
Arriving at Egorian
Egorian, known as the "City of Thorns," is the imperial capital of Cheliax. It became the capital after the Thrune Ascendancy in 4640 AR, replacing Westcrown. The city is located on the southern banks of Lake Sorrow, where the Adivian River flows southward. Its strategic position grants access to several inland waterways, connecting it to other cities like Kantaria and Dekarium.
Egorian's architecture is a striking blend of styles: the older, organic designs of Imperial Cheliax and the newer, gothic style favored by the infernal House of Thrune. The latter features barbed towers and sharply pointed roofs made from red-veined black marble imported from Arcadia. The city is divided into 23 districts, ranging from low-rent areas like Cheapside to upper-middle-class neighborhoods such as the Briarpatch and Triumph.
The Midnight Temple, dedicated to Asmodeus, is a significant religious site in Egorian, where human sacrifices are performed on the Black Altar. The city is governed by Lord Mayor Grachius Alazario, under the overarching rule of Queen Abrogail II.
Strangers
Upon landing, a group of Cheliax soldiers immediately escorts you to prison, where you undergo 24 hours of intense investigation.
Upon release, you proceed to Dekarium, a northern city, on foot. The countryside offers a quiet and relaxing contrast to Egorian's atmosphere. After several days of walking, you arrive at Dekarium, situated next to the swamp.
There, Exea awaits your arrival. She extends a warm welcome and invites you to spend the night at an inn where she has her quarters.
Uzohr's test
Exea is expecting your arrival. She invites you to stay at an inn where she has accommodation.
Exea seizes the opportunity to administer a sedative to the group, ensuring they remain asleep throughout the journey to the Wizard’s tower. The following morning, the group awakens, to realize they have been beheaded and their heads place on a shelf in in a old laboratory.



