Episode 44: Welcome to Dhurdezo
Our heroes fell through the sky and landed at the city gates of Dhurdezo. Gallogk was immediately recognized and was soon greeted by a host of city guards and Gurthak-- the chieftain of Dhurdezo and friend of Gallogk. The party was invited to the chieftain's "hut"; a misnomer being that this was more of a grandiose mansion which reflexed the piety of this city and enduring orcish design.
Gallogk and our heroes were made aware of the state of the city. In Gallogk's absence, a small orcish cult of Bahgtru (the former diety of this city before Gallogk's arrival years ago), had begun to recruit and undermine Tyrran ideals. Their leader, Hegrack, might become a problem and a show of Tyrran force might be necessary. The party discussed the issue of Mirkarkden and the fate of Bur Boldor. In additional to aiding the city on principle alone, Dhurdezo also has a strong trade relationship with the dwarven city and recognizes that Bur Boldor's survival is also in the best interest of Dhurdezo. Gurthak reminded Gallogk that just to the west of Dhurdezo like a gate to the deep roads which serve as an expedited trade route between the two cities. Unfortunately since the fall of Mirkarden, growing treats have made the deep roads to treacherous to pass, but our heroes might be able to clear things out.
After a meal at the chieftain's hut, the party enjoyed the night separately. Sankara took a stroll in the ancient pine gardens of Dhurdezo and encountered a trio of squirrels-- a revitalizing communion with nature. Bjorn and Chip went shopping, and Bjorn tried to coerce Chip into shoplifting-- an attempt at honoring Fearne's note that suggested Chip loosen up a little bit. Gallogk took a trip to the All Forge-- a place of great power and protection where he forged a war hammer imbued with fiery energy. Lucky's night with a local prostitute was interrupted by Ileana when he could no longer resist beholding the amulet from one of Ileana's generals.
The following day, the party followed in the Tyrran tradition of The Proving Ground. The proving is a rite where all returnees to Dhurdezo must prove their dedication to Tyr in a test of strength and will in battle. This proving ceremony was interrupted with Bahgtru followers attacked Gallogk and the party and kidnapped Gurthak. The party set off at once to find and rescue him from a small, abandoned temple just a few hours north.