The maelstrom of smoke expands to encompass the entire party as shadowy tendrils erupt from the portal, seizing onto Ianstaer and dragging them to their inevitable demise.
“You’re all fools, just like the old man! I defeated the famed Auberon Greatstag! I’m the most powerful wizard in all the realms! Just wait, you’ll see! Everyone will know the name of Ianstaer Silverdream! What a waste of a wish. You could have wished for power! Do you think a mere portal will stop me?!”
As quickly as it appeared, the djinn dissolves into smoke and joins the swirling storm being sucked into the portal. As the final vestiges of the half-elf Ianstaer Silverdream vanish into the abyss, the portal closes. Dust settles onto the floor of the Dread Dragon Inn. The lamp rests on its side, no longer a container for the magical djinn, but simply another shiny antique. There is an inaudible sigh of relief from those gathered around. You’d almost swear you could feel a peaceful breeze wafting through the inn, replacing the melancholy atmosphere with one of resounding success, of tragedy redressed, and of further malevolence thwarted.
Ambition without wisdom is like a bird without wings. The gifted young wizard sought to prove himself greater than any other, with little regard for life or loyalty. Auberon realized his flaws, yet still wished to help and guide the budding warrior. Ianstaer, however, was corrupted by the illusion of grandeur promised by having ultimate power, and saw no better way to achieve his goals than to slay Auberon and use the djinn to enhance his magical might, commanding the respect he felt he deserved.
Auberon Greatstag’s death has been avenged, along with Tua’la’s. The darkness which yearns for control of Estrea has been abated, and there is – in this moment – a bit less evil in the world.
Despite the tragic events that have occurred, you feel a new call to adventure stirring within you once more, perhaps one involving some unlikely companions who just so happened to help you solve a murder this night. Whatever the next quest may be, no matter how perilous or daunting or bleak the situation may seem, you’ll shine brightly.
In times of fear and doubt, you’ll remember Auberon, you’ll remember his grand adventures and the wonderful friends he made, along with the remarkable life he led. You’ll remember Tua’la, and her commitment to protecting her loved ones and seeing wrongs righted.
And lastly, you’ll always remember the Dread Dragon Inn.
