In Baldur’s Gate, rumors of a death curse spread through the bustling streets. This affliction withered those previously resurrected, leading them towards an irreversible end. Scholars and priests were baffled by the curse that seemed to affect the entire world.
The curse struck people from all walks of life, leaving families mourning for loved ones they could no longer bring back. A notable victim was Master Joseph Miagui Atori, an Aasimar warrior known for his valor and rumored love for gold. To those close to him, his character was much more profound than such whispers suggested.
The time came for Master Atori’s followers to honor him at a shrine dedicated to Kelemvor, the Lord of the Dead. A priest led the ceremony, inviting attendees to share memories of Atori. Tales were told by friends like Atrhus Oakenshield and servants who had known him intimately; even strangers he’d impacted shared anecdotes that sparked laughter amidst sorrow.
Syndra Silvane, a well-known adventurer and rumored past companion of Atori’s, spoke last before setting off to gather a select group for a meeting with Remallia Haventree on The Diviner—a grand ship at port. She hinted at hope for countering the curse and possibly reviving Atori if successful.
As dawn broke over Baldur’s Gate, summoned individuals arrived at The Diviner. Among them were Thalia Nightshade, Zermos, Corema Sabugueiro, and Mealltair. Remallia Haventree and her Halfling ally Callbrax outlined their plan over a map of Cloakwood—they suspected a lich named Zaldara Cordress might be behind or could shed light on the curse.
The plan involved finding Zaldara’s phylactery using divination spells which indicated it was hidden in her vault deep below her tower in Cloakwood. Remallia proposed attacking on two fronts: one team assaulting Zaldara’s stronghold directly while another sought out her phylactery from below led by Callbrax who knew secret pathways into the lich’s lair.
Thalia Nightshade, Zermos, Corema Sabugueiro, and Mealltair set out with Callbrax aboard The Devastation—an arcane enchanted small vessel—to navigate the waters towards their uncertain fate.
Three days later, guided by Callbrax, they reached the spot in the bordering the Cloakwood via a hidden creek that led into darkness below—where adventure or perhaps doom awaited in its depths.