bwatford

BOOK 1: RUINS OF GAUNTLIGHT
WRIN'S WONDERS
OTARI, STARSTONE ISLES
12:00 am
Day 1

Tucked away in a seaside hollow, Otari lies cradled by two towering cliffs. The western ascent is adorned with a meticulously maintained cemetery, while to the east, a marvel of craftsmanship captivates onlookers—a wooden chute supported by a trestle stretches from the cliff’s peak to a harbor-side platform. This clever device efficiently transports timber from the inland mill to the awaiting vessels below.

Otari’s inhabitants are generally warm and hospitable, though they exhibit a cautious demeanor towards those they suspect come from Absalom. While commerce with Absalom is valued, the locals carry a sense of pride, feeling no obligation to bend over backwards for the “city folk.” The diet in Otari is predominantly fish, supplemented by vegetables from nearby farms, with potatoes, carrots, and other root crops being staples. However, acquiring more exotic provisions from Absalom is not a challenge. Coffee, in particular, is a staple beverage, cherished by the industrious, dawn-greeting populace.

Yet, this night is marked for festivity, as the entire hamlet celebrates. Longnight, the holiday observed on the full moon of the year’s first month, sees the townspeople staying awake until daybreak, a collective act of defiance against the prolonged winter darkness. Despite the gusty evening, magical lights, impervious to the wind, are draped across the town.

On this auspicious night, you have been summoned by your benefactor to convene at her establishment when the clock strikes twelve. Known to the townspeople as Wrin’s Wonders, her signless curio shop is a trove of oddities and novelties, curated by its equally eccentric proprietor. The shop is encircled by a ring of structures resembling standing stones, which upon closer inspection, are revealed to be wooden frames shrouded in canvas, artfully painted to mimic stone. These encircle a central dome, a 15-foot-high structure of wooden beams and canvas triangles. The space between the dome and the ring houses additional tent-like domes, where the shop’s treasures are stored. This evening, their coverings are retracted, allowing the moon’s glow to illuminate the wares within, for Wrin’s Wonders never closes its doors.

Wrin Sivinxi, your patron, has a peculiar rationale for the shop’s unique design—she finds solace in rounded forms and perceives threat in sharp angles, a sentiment compounded by her mild claustrophobia. The dome serves as her abode, its interior painted to mirror the celestial dome, adorned with constellations from the Steller Pilgrim’s Conclave, ensuring she can always slumber beneath the stars, regardless of the weather.

Tonight, however, sleep eludes everyone—it is a night unlike any other.

Wrin’s heritage as a tiefling is unmistakable and something she has learned to embrace. Her pupil-less eyes, diminutive ram horns twining around her elven ears, a slender tail, and fingertips that dance with tiny, shimmering lights are a testament to her otherworldly lineage. Nevertheless, her ready smile and open arms have consistently earned her friendships throughout her journeys.

Upon your arrival at Wrin’s Wonders, you find her engrossed in a star chart, comparing celestial patterns to those in the heavens. The evening’s brisk winds challenge her, threatening to snatch the scroll from her grasp or tear it apart.

She notices you and calls out, her voice a soft yet piercing contrast to the wind’s roar, “Don’t just stand there, lend a woman a hand… or two,” as she wrestles with the chart. “How can one conduct an astrological consultation on such a pivotal night if one’s hands are preoccupied with a star map?”

It’s evident that the star chart in her possession depicts the thirteen prominent constellations of the Steller Pilgrim’s Conclave, the foundation of all astrological study and prognostication.
 

Wrin's Wonders
12:00 am
Day 1

OOC Scene Information: Astrological predictions based on these constellations, particularly the Steller Pilgrim's Conclave constellations, are a traditional practice that seeks to interpret humanoid characteristics and forecast future events. These predictions are made by analyzing the positions of the Sun, Moons, and planets relative to the Steller Pilgrim's Conclave constellations at the time of a person’s birth. Each constellation is associated with specific member of the conclave and are attributed to traits and symbolism, believed to influence an individual’s life and destiny.

Astrologers use these celestial patterns to provide insights into personality, relationships, and potential life events.

Nulia’s hands gently rested the warhammer, with its distinctive curvature, atop the chest of the fallen warrior. She paused, her eyes tracing the intricate details etched into the metal—a testament to the weapon’s exceptional artisanship, a silent homage to its previous wielder.

The group, bound by a shared resolve, meticulously inspected their gear, ensuring every strap and buckle was secure, every potion and provision accounted for. With a collective nod, they agreed to brave the ascent, the spiraling staircase before them promising only shadows and uncertainty. Two torches, their flames dancing like fiery sprites, offered a beacon of warmth and light for those who wished to claim them.

Alyria, assuming the role of the vanguard, led the way. Though her fey lineage did not grant her vision in the pitch-black veil of the stairwell, she possessed the arcane gift to summon a flickering flame into the cradle of her palm. The small orb of light bobbed ahead as she soared, guiding the party through the coiling ascent. At the summit, they encountered a opening, and it was Alyria, the dreamborn, who first dared to gaze into the mystery beyond.
 

Northminster Catacombs
8:01 pm
Day 1

Scene Information: Within the confines of the chamber, three distinct pathways beckon. To the east and west, stone doors stand firm, guardians of the paths they conceal. Meanwhile, the southward passage is marked by open double doors, an invitation to traverse the corridor that extends into the veiled distance.

Allera’s gaze grew wide with intrigue at the enigmatic half-mask before her—its nature uncertain, yet given the chainmail that had defied the ravages of time, it surely bore an enchantment. Her detection spell confirmed her suspicions, revealing the object bathed in a uncommon glow of transmutation magic, while the chainmail itself was devoid of such mystical energies.

Thodin, with resourceful hands, crafted a lasso and deftly ensnared the skeletal remains, drawing them closer by the enduring armor they adorned. Remarkably, the brittle bones maintained their cohesion, allowing him to retrieve the majority of the skeletal fragments. Once within reach, the goggles were delicately lifted from the skull and entrusted to Allera, while Thodin appraised the chainmail’s exceptional make. The armor, a testament to masterful artisanship, bore a hidden utility: it could be disassembled to form a dagger-like weapon—a clever and lethal innovation concealed within its segments. The creator’s intent remained a mystery, yet the craftsmanship was undeniably exquisite.

Meanwhile, Armando and Riffraff chanced upon a leather pouch, ancient and fragile, disintegrating at their touch. Within its tattered confines lay the remnants of three shattered statuettes and three others preserved in pristine condition—a majestic palace, a slender spire flanked by eight varied turrets, and what appeared to be a stately stadium. These miniature marvels, untouched by time, surely held value, perhaps as coveted relics for a connoisseur of such rare artifacts.
 

The Cairn HillsThe Cairn Hills refers to the rolling hills and valleys surrounding Diamond Lake, and they are rife with hundreds of burial sites and ruins, the remnants of a civilization long forgotten. Local youth like to dare each other to explore various cairns as a rite of passage, though they have to evade the roving patrols of soldiers from the Garrison and The Bronzewood Lodge to do it. Every decade or so, someone comes across an undisturbed cairn and lives to tell the tale.
(Two hours E of Diamond Lake)
8:44 pm
MoondayMonday the 9th of ReapingJuly, 595 CY

Scene Information: I will be adding all of the items to the "party loot" thread shortly.

During a short rest someone can attempt to identify the goggles by examining them for the full hour and then making a DC 15 Arcana check (disadvantage if not proficient). Only one person can attempt it but someone else can assist if they are proficient in Arcana.

During a short rest someone can attempt to appraise the statuettes for value by studying them for the full hour and making a DC 11 Intelligent check, plus proficiency bonus if proficient in jeweler's tools. Only one person can attempt it but someone else can assist if they are proficient in Jewler's Tools.

Lingering Poison Effects: Everyone except for Thodin and Allatia has -2 on strength-based attacks, damage, saves, and ability checks. Allatia has disadvantage on strength-based attacks, damage, saves, and ability checks.

Map Information: Please use directions (N,S,E,W,NE,SE, etc) when moving. (i.e. I move 2 squares N and 4 E).

Bewilderment danced in Aewyn’s mind as he rose unsteadily, encumbered by the alien attire draping his frame. With wary steps, he neared the woman, her visage serene in death’s eternal slumber. Was she guardian or gaoler? Her identity eluded him, as did any tales of such a woman. Her armor, though wrought of cold iron and marred by a gaping wound where a wasp’s stinger had found its mark, remained intact.

In the ensuing silence, a shadow elf, an adversary to the remnants of the elven dominion, approached the lifeless woman. She intoned a somber litany to the Lord of Shadows, her presence near the corpse a riddle to Aewyn. Why would she dare draw close to an elf, given the enmity between their kin?

The deceased’s fate, though tragic, was now inconsequential. Athelia bent to examine the peculiar being instead. The wasp-like entity donned robes of deep crimson, akin to those of a mage or ascetic. Its demise was evident, dealt by the warhammer with its unique, curved silhouette lying nearby, its head smeared with the creature’s viscous ichor. The being was an enigma, undoubtedly.

Alyria, too, scrutinized the wasp-like figure, discerning swiftly it was no fey. Its origin was foreign to their world—had it emerged from the Bleak Gate, or someplace more distant? Memories of an ancient tome surfaced, penned by a voyager from another reality, warning of the khalkos—a cunning, wasp-like predator of celestials and demons alike, a bane to beings from alternate realities. The tome spoke of their ability to emit a maddening pheromone mist and to implant lethal larvae within skulls. Had they fallen victim to such a fate?

Lawrence, emerging from the shadows, studied the emblem on his robe, a symbol unrecorded in any annal yet seemingly linked to the interdimensional carcass before them. The wasp-shaped insignia mirrored the creature’s form. He concurred with Alyria, recalling a bard’s tale of such a mythical being. The mystery deepened, the symbol a clue to the creature’s otherworldly origins.

Northminster Catacombs
7:53 pm
Day 1

Scene Information: Once you have introduced yourselves to each other, please submit a marching order to me in the OOC, along with a watch order for camping so I have that info on file for future use.

Anxious over the possibility of the doors crashing closed once more, the diminutive creature, akin to a blend of goblin and gnome, hastened the adventurers onward. With a melodic cadence, he chanted, “Forward, forward…into the depths…descend, descend…hurry, hurry,” his voice a blend of mirth and mischief. He led with a sprightly step, his laughter echoing in the murky shadows. His keen eyes darted about, swiftly adapting to the dimness, vigilant for any lurking peril. Willowveil, without hesitation, dispatched Thistlewing to accompany the scout, ensuring their vanguard was strong.

Deidre, poised at the stair’s descent, felt a premonition of impending revelation. The allure of the uncharted propelled her, her spirit unshaken by uncertainty. She advanced, a cautious sentinel ahead of the group, trailing Noodles. Her gaze swept the surroundings, igniting torches to pierce the darkness for those whose vision faltered in the night. Taborlin, with a sense of urgency, aligned themself with the Artificer, ready for what lay ahead.

Trailing not far behind, the remainder of the ensemble clustered, their proximity close despite the limited sight. Even with the aid of darkvision and the flickering torchlight, the spectral mists permitted a mere glimpse of ten feet ahead, shrouding their path in mystery and anticipation.
 

Moments later, a subtle undulation at the periphery of Noodles’ vision suggested the presence of concealed entities within the fleeting fog. Noodles’ voice pierced the silence, commanding an immediate cessation of their descent. It was then that four shambling skeletal figures emerged from the mist, their frames enshrouded in decayed and fungus-ridden funeral garments. A viscous sheen of noxious green mucus clung to their bones, binding them in a grotesque parody of life. Each of the skeletons heaved a massive battle aspergillum, its weight scraping against the stone, as they ominously barred the path ahead.

Mist Shrouded Stairs
400 feet below the surface.
9:03 am
Day 3

* Unless a spellcaster uses a bonus action to make a concentration check to manipulate the twisted magical energies resonating from the badlands when casting a spell other than a cantrip, there is a 84% chance today of an unpredictable result.

WE ARE IN COMBAT
ROUND 1

Theatre of the Mind Encounter:

Please provide an initiative roll with your next post.

Engaged (within 5 feet)
No one.

Short Range (10 feet)
Only Thistlewing and Noodles can see the skeletons as vision for each person is limited to 10 feet.

Medium Range (20 feet)
Deidre and Taborlin (can't see the skeletons without moving closer to either short range or melee)

Long Range (30 feet)
Zelda, Willowveil, and Question (can't see the skeletons without moving closer to either short range or melee)
 

CHAPTER 1: MEMORIES OF HOLDENSHIRE
ACT 1: THE CULT WHO KNEW TOO LITTLE
NORTHMINSTER CATACOMBS
7:48 pm
Day 1

Enveloped in an aura of solemnity, the chamber before you stretches grandly to a height of 50 feet, its 30-foot breadth encased within walls that are a testament to reverence and time. Each alcove is a sacred niche, cradling the ceremonially enshrouded remains of ancient monks—figures once radiant with holiness, now resting in eternal quietude.

The room is embraced by a staircase that spirals upward, disappearing into the unknown vastness above, its steps worn by the countless soles of the devout. This helical ascent graces the southern expanse of the chamber, where it descends to meet the stone floor in a graceful landing. Here, a pair of torches stand sentinel, their flames flickering with a steadfast glow that cuts through the dimness, casting elongated shadows that dance upon the walls.

At the heart of this sanctified space lies a tableau of finality: the lifeless form of an armored human woman, her valorous end etched in the stillness of her repose. Beside her, the twisted corpse of an insectile abomination sprawls in defeat, a grotesque invader vanquished upon this hallowed ground. Together, they form a silent epicenter in the chamber’s center, a stark reminder of the fragile line between life and the hereafter.
 

Northminster Catacombs
7:48 pm
Day 1

Where Am I?
The party has no recollection of this place.

Who Are All of You?
This is an excellent opportunity for all of you to introduce yourselves. None of your long-term memories have been affected and you are encouraged to share information.

How Did I Get Here?
Your last firm and concrete memories should each be of your time in or near HengistburyHengistbury is a small village on the banks of a winding river located in the rustic and rural county of Holdenshire. The hub of the community is the Bleeding Heart Tavern — formerly known as the Beaming Hearth. Hengistbury grew up around its temple, a wooden affair which sometimes serves as the town meeting hall when large gatherings are called for and as the local infirmary and hospital when needed.. Use your recollections as an opportunity for each of you to describe their character and what they were doing before all this. Make it up, it will become cannon. You are as much a storyteller in this as I. However, none of you remember anything about how you arrived here.

What Am I Wearing?
Each character is wearing a long black robe and cowl over whatever starting gear you selected. Each robe has a strange symbol sewn into the front that resembles a stylized insect wing.

Who's This Lady?
To determine if you are familiar with her, include a Culture skill check with your next post as you try and identify her. Culture can be used to determine an adventurer's familiarity with people of notoriety, or knowing customs, laws, or etiquette in social situations. Its most common ability score is Intelligence.

What Possessions Does the Lady Have?
To search anything, be it a body, a desk, a crate, a wall, floor, etc. it is done along with an Investigation skill check. This single check accounts for rifling through pockets, taking note of equipment as well as for looking for hidden things that might be concealed. If you are searching the body, then please include an Investigation check with your next post.

What's This Wasp Thing?
If you inspect the corpse of the creature, you can include an Arcana or Nature check with your next post. (Whichever is higher for you, please note if you have proficiency or not.)

Can We Save This Lady?
Any ability checks to determine if she can be helped reveal that she is irrevocably dead.

How Do We Get Out of Here?
The only apparent exit is a set of stairs along the southern wall that lead upwards into pitch darkness.