Into the Snake Temple (93, 25)

Dates: May 15 to May 21, 2021

By: Draeven Kane (Morgan)

Other Party Members: Freinhild (Beth), Quinn (Keith), Summer (Emmalee)

I organized an expedition to investigate the rumors of a ruined temple located near the source of the Galsol River, about a three-day march from the town. According to my research, it was likely devoted to an ancient snake-god of a race of beings known as the Yuan-Ti.

Along the way, near the temple, we were ambushed by a small pack of goblins which we dealt with handily. We also recruited a tribless orc who provided valuable intel concerning the temple. The temple is currently occupied by a tribe of hobgoblins. Based on the intel of our orcish asset, we timed our approach after a sizable number of their warriors left to hunt.

The hobgoblins were in the process of attempting a ritual to appease the snake god, who we identified as Merrshaulk. The ritual did succeed in activating various controls designed to inflict suffering on a sacrifice, but our intervention prevented any further success with the ritual.

We succeeded in dispatching what seemed to be the leadership of the hobgoblins, including one who seemed to be skilled in magic sufficient to make success in their endeavor a possibility.

As our capabilities were drained after the fray with the hobgoblins, we withdrew from the site. I managed to take some sketches and notes regarding the temple's interior, however. Outside, there was an encampment of hobgoblins, but no other structures matching the kind of construction of the temple. I suspect there may be extensive underground facilities that should be explored further. However, the remaining hobgoblins, which number about a score of capable warriors and an unknown number of non-combatants, would need to be dealt with.

I am concerned that the remaining hobgoblins may yet have the capability of performing a successful ritual, the result of which is unknown, but certainly not good for the city. After I conduct further research into the matter, I would be interested in mounting a return expedition.