The HILT rolled into the Clear Creek logging village to do a little trade. They delivered their deliveries, traded their wares, and were generally well received.

Muse was noticed as being a member of the TSR and was pulled aside by one of the local patriarchs. There had been two children taken from the fields near town while planting saplings. The forest was so dangerous that none in town felt they stood much chance mounting a rescue effort.

The HILT agreed to search for the children and set out early the next day, delving deep into the woods. At first the forest seemed normal, that is filled with leresse. Deeper in, the woods began to become thick with corruption. The trees and plants were spattered with a glowing purple ooze as though a giant demon had sneezed all over the forest.

At the heart of the forest was an old and dismal cabin. Within was a man still somewhat conscious, but overgrown with a corrupted fungus and fused to his chair and floor. Also there was a sinkhole in the floor that led to caverns.

Muse charged into the hole, rushing to save the children. Gene was hot on her heels, rushing to save Muse. The others were more measured in their approach and delayed entering the caverns.