After the Realm joined to defeat Zephyrion, Dodenskaran mages dedicated their time to researching the knowledge within the Library of Tharum. Through their studies, they were able to trace the origins of the aberrant Uzzlezesh and uncover his true intentions. If his plans are successful, the Abyss will be unleashed upon the Realm of Legend.
As a smoky tempest built within the most central forest of Norda Stello, they declared that we could wait no longer to act against our foe. A malfunctioning portal, found at the heart of the forest, is drawing in elementals and destroying the surrounding lands, within is the demi-plane that Uzzlezesh calls home. 

Deep in their research they also uncovered an additional strand of hope, a legend of forest spirits coming to the aid of the living in their most desperate times. A party was swiftly gathered to investigate a shrine of gemstones, bordering the most central forest, with the hope of gaining the trust of these mysterious spirits.

Our forces unified in what has come to be known as Elderscorch Hollow, bestowed with the blessings of the forest spirits. Lord Thwack Axefoot and Lord Regin Spellhammer channeled a bubble of protection, holding the elemental forces at bay as we were attacked by the swarms of elemental creatures drawn to the region. It was hard-fought, but as the last channeler fell our protection failed. The malfunctioning portal that we came to fix was slammed once again by the storm we held at bay.

Those still standing were left to watch as a maelstrom centered over the portal, before being swiftly pulled into the chaos. The portal itself spared our imminent doom, as we awakened in a seemingly familiar place, the most central forest of Norda Stello, but now undamaged. The grass, trees, and even the sky had a strange hue about them. In the distance, an unfamiliar landmark - a dark castle, and signs that a storm is brewing. It was decided that it would be best to rest there, to prepare for our investigation of this new environment…