Session 7 Part 1 - Prophet

Coada awoke before the fireplace on the study floor, with Sethie, Sumayya, and Wora wrapped closely in her tail. She smiled quietly, brushing the hair back from Wora’s face.

“I have to thank you for the festivities last night; it was a wonderful experience,” Sumayya whispered, her tired eyes blinking as she sat up to greet Coada.

Coada smiled. “It was a much-needed break,” she replied, a slight rasp still lingering in her throat.

The two sat quietly in front of the fire until the others began to stir—Sethie first, followed quickly by Wora.

“Good morning,” Sethie mumbled cheerfully through a yawn, stretching her arms overhead.

Wora groaned, rolling over to bury her face from the morning light. Coada began patting her shoulder gently. “A little too much fun last night?” she teased. Wora groaned again, sitting up slowly with a tired, distant stare. Coada chuckled before rising and heading to the kitchen to prepare breakfast.

“Thank you, Wora, for last night,” Sumayya said softly.

“Yes, thank you. It was lovely,” Sethie added.

Wora smiled sleepily. “I’m happy to have had you! Now I need a bath. I’ll be back,” she mumbled, standing shakily before heading towards the main bath.

Sethie and Sumayya stood shortly after, heading into the kitchen to help Coada prepare. Together, they worked in quiet comfort, preparing tea, eggs, and sausages. Soon, they sat at the table just as Wora returned, her step more lively.

“So, our illustrious victor, how are you feeling today?” Wora teased.

Coada rolled her eyes. “I’m fine. How are you?”

Wora waved her hand dismissively. “Never better!” she smiled, settling beside Sumayya to begin her meal.

Coada laughed and returned to her meal, when suddenly, a familiar voice drifted into her mind. Umeran. “Coada, report to the Ysora Keep receiving hall at noon today for further discussions regarding your vision.”

Coada responded mentally, “Yes, sir.” She looked around, seeing that Wora had stopped mid-bite, likely receiving a similar message.

Wora smiled after a moment and gently set her fork down. “I must be going. I apologize. I’ll see you all soon.” She stood and gave a brief bow before leaving.

Sumayya and Sethie nodded their goodbyes as Coada stood and led Wora to the door, giving her a brief hug before sending her on her way. As she returned to the dining room, Coada explained, “I received a summons to the Ysora Keep at noon. I’ll need to clean up first and head out as soon as possible. Would you be willing to meet me in King’s Run about an hour after?”

Sumayya nodded and turned to Sethie, who shrugged. “That should be fine! I want to check on my home, so we’ll do that while you’re out.”

Coada smiled and rushed off to prepare for her meeting. She hesitated, glancing back toward her allies before entering the bathroom. It was small, barely enough space to remove her armor and wash up. She took extra time polishing each piece before redressing, and by 11 o’clock, she was ready.

She exited to a quiet home; Sethie and Sumayya had already left. Coada stood in the doorway, looking back at the once lively halls, a small sadness filling her chest. With a deep breath, she turned and stepped into the cold morning air, locking the orphanage behind her as she set out for Ysora Keep.

As she passed through the streets, a familiar voice drifted into her mind. “I see you’re meeting at the castle today. Would you join me at my cottage afterward? I have someone you need to speak with.” Wora’s voice was quiet and focused.

“Of course,” Coada responded warmly, her eyes trained on the castle, growing ever closer. She paused at the courtyard gates, looking toward the abbey before approaching. The guards, surveying her with suspicion, opened the gates with a bow.

“You are to wait in the receiving hall until requested,” one of the more ornately decorated guards barked. He was older for an elf and carried himself with an arrogance that made Coada’s blood boil.

She merely bowed her head, continuing up the small path to the large wooden doors. Two more guards stood before the doors, opening them just wide enough for her to pass. She bowed her head to each as she passed, and they closed the doors behind her with a resounding thud. She was alone. The cool, grey stone room was adorned with grand tapestries and stained glass, stretching high above. An ornate fountain trickled slowly in the center, providing the only sound, while cold stone benches lined the walls.

Coada sighed and looked toward the smaller double doors before her. She took a seat and began to wait.

Sethie and Sumayya sat quietly, finishing their meals after Coada rushed off. “How’s your…” Sethie paused, considering her words. “Supply?”

Sumayya smirked, lifting the flask from her hip and giving it a swirl. “Good for now. Plus, I picked some up when we were hunting the other night.”

Sethie shook her head. “Alright,” she smiled. “Just wanted to check.”

Sumayya nodded with a soft smile as she stood to gather the plates. “Well, thank you. I’ll let you know if I need more.” She winked.

Sethie laughed and stood to join her. They quietly washed the dishes and left, Sethie glancing down the hall at the empty space as they exited. 

Sumayya stretched as they stepped out into the street. “So, first your home, and then?”

Sethie smiled. “We’ll see where the day takes us.” Sumayya chuckled and followed her up the street to Sethie’s home.

The door creaked open, the bell chiming into empty space. There was an eerie silence as Sethie entered, realizing she’d never come home to an empty house before. Her stomach twisted briefly at the hollowness. “Come on,” she muttered, leading Sumayya upstairs.

Sumayya followed quietly, watching Sethie gather items from each room and lock them away in storage chests, packing up remaining food before heading back down into the shop. “One last thing,” Sethie called, gesturing toward her mother’s workstation. “She showed me this a few times, and we have some time. Care to make some healing potions with me?”

Sumayya smiled, pulling up a chair beside Sethie and watching intently as she gathered ingredients and began brewing, walking Sumayya through each step. The first batch wasn’t perfect—Sethie could tell from the smell—but the second and third were flawless. She stepped back proudly, admiring the handful of corked potions she’d made.

“You have a knack for that,” Sumayya commented.

“Well, I learned from the best,” Sethie said with a melancholic tone.

Sumayya placed a hand on Sethie’s shoulder and gave a reassuring nod. The two quietly stashed the potions in their pouches and continued out into the shop.

“I thought I heard you back there!” Gnash called.

Sethie and Sumayya jumped, startled by the small halfling leaning against the entryway, puffing his cigar.

“We didn’t hear you come in!” Sethie responded.

Gnash smiled and stepped forward, surveying the barren storefront. “Saw the door cracked and wanted to make sure there were no intruders.”

“Just your usual suspects,” Sumayya chuckled.

Gnash raised an eyebrow at her. “I see.”

“Gnash,” Sethie said, her tone questioning. “When we said we wanted to help—”

“No, no,” Gnash interjected. “I made a promise to your mother, and by the gods, I will keep it. I won’t willingly put you in danger like that.”

“But I—”

“Nope!”

“If you don’t let me help, I’ll just do it myself!”

Gnash sighed. “Fine,” he relented. “Tomorrow morning, we have an idea on the area, and I think it uses the sewers, so be ready to get dirty.”

Sethie smiled wide. “Deal!”

Gnash sighed again, shaking his head as he turned around. “Looks like I have some homework to do then. I’ll see you here at dawn.” He waved as he left.

Sethie turned to Sumayya, who leaned against the wall with an amused expression.

“What?” Sethie barked.

“I just hadn’t seen you so insistent before,” Sumayya responded.

“Well, if people need our help, why shouldn’t we?” Sethie questioned.

Sumayya shrugged. “I hadn’t thought of it like that, I suppose.”

“Always a means to an end for you, then?”

Sumayya pushed off the wall, and the pair began to exit onto the street. “Something like that,” she muttered.

Sethie shook her head, locking the door behind them. “I suppose we should head over. Maybe grab a bite on our way?”

Sumayya nodded as the pair set off to rejoin Coada.

Coada sat quietly in the receiving hall, the events of the past few days racing through her mind. The stillness of the room began to grate on her patience. Minutes turned into an hour before an usher entered and called her name. He was a younger elven man, with neatly braided hair and soft features.

“Coada Alba?”

Coada stood. “Yes?”

“They will see you now,” he said curtly, turning and leaving the door open behind him.

“They?” Coada whispered under her breath as she followed him down a long hall. They turned right, passing through a quiet courtyard and into another set of grand double doors.

Coada’s chest tightened as the young man stepped aside, gesturing for her to enter. Inside, she saw Umeran standing in the center of the room, smiling warmly. Behind him, a grand dais held King Orthrious upon his throne, with Ruen Fioras standing to his left, Princess E’lara sitting slightly behind him to the right, and Wora standing beside her, a hand gently placed on the princess’s shoulder.

Coada took a deep breath and advanced slowly into the room. A hushed murmur ran through the nobles seated in raised sections to the left and right. All eyes were on her. Coada approached Umeran and bowed as he ushered her before the king. They both bowed again, and a heavy silence fell.

“Your Majesty, and our esteemed guests,” Umeran began, his deep voice echoing through the hall, “We come today with a prophecy—a warning from the gods themselves.”

The room erupted in murmurs, a mixture of skepticism and awe. King Orthrious raised a hand, and the room fell silent again as Ruen stepped forward.

“And what is this vision you speak of?” Ruen asked.

Umeran looked toward Coada, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “Go on,” he whispered.

Coada nodded, her back straightening as she looked up to the king. “I received a vision from Arcea. It showed war coming to our soil, to this city, soon. Dark and twisted creatures laid siege to us,” she paused, “We were barely holding the line.”

“And how can we be sure this is a vision?” Ruen replied. “No one has had such direct communication with the gods in hundreds of years, except our great king.”

Coada began to speak, but Umeran stepped in front of her. “I’ve vetted this through magical means. Coada has been a member of House Arcea for many years and was raised in my program. I confirmed her aptitude and can assure you that this vision is as true as can be, or at least, she is not lying about what she saw.”

Ruen stepped back and looked down at the king.

“At the very least,” Umeran added, “I ask you to trust my word as the High Priest and advisor to the High Court.”

The king pondered for a moment. “Then let it be so,” he said, his aged voice carrying the weight of a century of life. “Coada Alba, Prophet of Arcea.” Another wave of murmurs rippled through the room as Captain Alfera stepped forward.

“With the upcoming festival, I will make the necessary preparations to defend our city,” Alfera announced. “We will lock down all entrances and station units around the city. No one will enter or leave without our knowledge.”

The room quieted again as King Orthrious stood. “So it will be,” he declared, waving to the room. The nobles stood and began to shuffle out. Coada locked eyes with Wora, who nodded reassuringly before leaving with the princess.

Umeran wrapped his arm around her shoulder and turned to lead her out of the room. “You did great,” he whispered. “I’m proud to call you one of our own.”

Coada bowed her head respectfully as they exited. Umeran stepped away, bowing in return before leaving her to return to his duties. Coada stood for a long moment before the now-closed doors, reflecting on the audience she had just had, when a cold but familiar voice drew her from her thoughts.

“Impressive display, I must admit,” Ruen said, his tone laced with bitterness.

Coada turned to face him, bowing deeply. He nodded in response.

“I shall walk you out,” he ordered.

Coada nodded again as Ruen linked his arm with hers, guiding her down the long hall. She remained silent, observing as no staff or noble dared approach the mage.

“Prophet of Arcea,” he hummed. “It does have a nice ring to it.”

“It’s not what I wanted. I just wanted to warn the kingdom.”

Ruen smirked. “And warn us you did, but that’s not why we’re speaking.”

Coada glanced at him, eyebrow raised.

“You see, until your arrival, Danyell hadn’t said a word. It wasn’t until you showed up that she even acknowledged the world outside her cell.”

“Strange,” Coada said, her tone disinterested.

“Indeed,” he continued. “So I took it upon myself to look into your group. You were easy enough to investigate, having been under the kingdom's thumb since you were nursing. Sethie too—daughter of a potion mistress in the North Corner. A petty thief, but I understood the connection. Now, Sarah…” He paused, staring intently at Coada.

Her stomach dropped, though her expression remained neutral. 

Ruen smiled viciously. “You see, records of Sarah are incomplete, and when I inquired, the town said they had no record of her in their census.”

Coada’s eyes burned with fire. “And what exactly are you trying to say?”

Ruen smiled, gesturing toward the door. “Be careful who you call an ally,” he whispered.

Coada responded with an exaggerated bow. “I’ll be sure to take note of that,” she said, her voice firm.

Ruen smirked before turning to head back into the castle. Coada remained, watching him until he was out of sight. She sighed deeply before exiting through the receiving hall and into the entrance courtyard.

Despite the winter air, the courtyard was bustling with nobles, guards, and government staff. Across the road, she spotted Sumayya and Sethie leaning against a wall, talking as they waited.

Sumayya looked toward her, offering a warm smile as she approached.

“Well?” Sethie asked.

“Well…” Coada paused, leaning between them as they looked toward the castle gates. “You’re looking at the Prophet of Arcea, apparently.”

Sethie and Sumayya looked at her in surprise.

Coada’s expression darkened. “They’re locking down the city ahead of the festival to be safe. And…” she hesitated, “They looked into us, Sarah. They know your name isn’t legitimate.”

Sumayya’s stomach twisted as her expression hardened. “It’s okay, I’ll handle it,” she whispered.

“So, what’s the plan?” Sethie asked quietly.

“For now, Wora asked to see us after this. We’ll see what comes next.” Coada straightened up, pushing off the wall.

Sumayya nodded, her usual softened expression returning. Sethie smiled and linked her arm through Coada’s. “Let’s go then!”

Session 6 Part 4 - The Winter Tournament

The trio rushed through the city, winding into the vibrant artist district. The streets were packed tightly with vendors and performers, people bustling about in merriment. They turned right, deeper into the arts district, which opened into a wide courtyard. At the center, lit by dim firelight, was a large sandstone dome with two grand stairways on either side leading down into the ground. Wora stood before the right door, tapping her foot.

“There you are!” she exhaled as they approached.

“So sorry,” Sethie laughed. “The day got away from us.”

“Well, you missed the openers, but there's still time. You’re on in 20 minutes,” Wora called to Coada.

Coada nodded. “I spoke with Umeran,” she whispered as she passed by into the theater.

Wora turned, brows raised, but held her words as Coada descended. “Come on,” she said finally to Sumayya and Sethie. “Let’s take our seats.”

They nodded, following Wora down the sandstone steps into an underground bazaar. Past the vendors, they turned left into a large auditorium. The ceiling domed upwards, and a sandpit lay below.

The circular arena was themed in a desert style, with sandstone walls, benches, and ornate decor. It was divided by large gates on each side where the opponents entered and exited. Sethie whistled as she looked around. Their side was much less crowded, with cushioned benches and servants bringing food and wine to and from. Across the way, viewers of all origins were packed tightly into stadium-style seating.

Wora led them to a side seating where a server brought food and wine as they sat. “Fancy, isn’t it?” Wora asked.

Sethie nodded. “I never thought I’d afford to see the tournaments, let alone end up on this side of the audience.”

Wora laughed. “I could say the same. When I got my promotion, I wanted to celebrate with Ovar and Coada, so I bought these tickets as a surprise. It didn't work out as planned, but I am happy to enjoy this with you two.”

“Well, thank you,” Sethie said warmly, clinking her glass with Wora’s. Wora looked past her to Sumayya, who was quietly scanning the room. She noticed Sumayya glancing toward the center of their section, where the most ornate seating was. There, a halfling man with short brown hair and vibrant green eyes sat talking to a young human man with short hair, similarly styled, wearing fine military garb. Behind them stood a fierce-looking woman with long midnight-blue hair, pulled tightly back, and azure skin.

“That’s Arden Leothran,” Wora whispered, leaning over to Sumayya. “His adoptive mother is Alfera Leothran, our army general.”

Sumayya looked back with a raised brow. Wora nodded, continuing, “I heard that he stepped down from his mother’s side and has been gathering adventurers for an expedition into the Ashlands.”

“Why’s that?” Sumayya questioned.

Wora shrugged as she offered Sumayya a glass of wine.

Sumayya accepted, taking in the rich aroma as she drank. The music faded, and a hush fell over the arena. A large figure slipped from the shadowed left corridor. His dark scales and burning red eyes were accented by ornate golden armor. The dragonborn walked quietly to the center, pausing for a beat as he scanned the crowd.

“Welcome, one and all!” he bellowed. “I trust your break was not too long and that you’ve enjoyed our performances so far this evening. For our next fight, we have quite a treat—a battle between beings many of you may have never seen! Are you ready?”

The crowd erupted in cheers and hoots.

“Now, for our first contestant: hailing from our beautiful city, a cleric of House Arcea, child of the Mother of Blood and War, a creature of fierce origins—Coada Alba!”

The crowd cheered as Coada emerged from the right tunnel, warhammer in hand and a cold fierceness in her eyes. She did not acknowledge the crowd, nor did she notice as she stopped beside the dragonborn, patiently waiting for her opponent. Hungry for battle.

“And our opponent, hailing from lands untraveled by our people, a creature unlike anything you’ve seen, a fierce and powerful child of combat, and a looming force to be reckoned with—Sif Vandr!”

The crowd erupted again but quieted in suspense as the sound of deep thunder grew like a hum. A massive figure emerged. Sif stepped into the light, propping a massive hammer onto the ground beside her as it hummed like thunder. Her stone-greyish-blue skin was laced with ornate tattoos, her hair dark blue, shaved at the sides, and loosely braided back with charms adorning it. She looked at Coada with lightning in her eyes and a playful smile.

Coada straightened. This woman must be at least nine feet tall, she estimated, as she readied her weapon. Sif chuckled and began in a thick accent, “This will be fun! Here’s to the better fighter.” She nodded, readying her hammer.

“Remember, fighters, there is no holding back. The last one standing is the winner. At the bell, you may begin,” the dragonborn said, nodding to each of them before exiting the arena. A tense silence hung as the doors swung shut.

Ding, ding! Sif smiled and charged forward, crying out a battle cry. The lightning in her eyes sparked. Coada moved back, casting a holy shield around her and readying for the blow. Sif swung hard, pushing Coada through the loose sand, but Coada was ready, taking the blow as she spun out of the swing, smashing her own weapon toward Sif’s right shoulder.

Sif took the blow with ease, swinging her hammer back toward Coada’s left side. Coada gasped at the force as a rune lit up along the haft. Coada stumbled back, fire in her eyes as she charged forward, swinging wide. Sif swung, but Coada was quicker, ducking just out of the swing as Sif whispered an incantation. The runes light flowed from the hammer and into the blow Coada had taken. The wound began to heal slightly.

Coada swung again, striking hard into Sif’s side. Sif smiled. “Nice hit,” she coughed, spinning around with a heavy whoosh and catching Coada’s side. Coada’s holy shield absorbed the blow.

Coada smiled viciously, reaching out with her free hand onto Sif’s arm, flooding her with necrotic energy. Sif grunted and stumbled back, looking down at the rotted wound tracing up her arm. She smirked and looked back at Coada, then up to the skylight above them. “Okay,” she bellowed, “Magic it is!”

Sif stepped back, planting the base of her hammer into the ground as she called out an incantation. Coada moved to charge her, and a flash of lightning blasted through the skylight, swallowing Coada. The bright light was dwarfed by the blast of noise, deafening the audience and Coada briefly. Sif charged forward in the blinding light, catching Coada’s chest with her hammer and pushing her back several feet with a single swing.

Coada coughed, regaining her breath as she gathered herself. The giantess stood across the ring, readying another charge. The smell of ozone was heavy in the air, and her body burned from the magical electricity. She screamed in rage, charging again with her hand outstretched, just missing as Sif dodged to the right, swinging her hammer toward Coada. Coada was ready, dropping beneath the hammer swing and catching Sif’s arm. Coada’s eyes darkened as she charged all of her energy into the necrotic blow. Dark energy erupted up Sif’s arm, lacing across her neck and chest.

Sif coughed blood as she pulled away, swinging again but missing with her weakened arm. Coada hissed, her hair flaring like a cobra’s hood as she lunged forward, biting deep into Coada’s neck with her poison. Sif’s arms fell limp as she began to collapse. Coada pulled back, still panting with a vicious rage. The ring briefly lit with runes, catching Sif as she fell and filling them both with healing energy.

Coada tensed, finally realizing the crowd around her—silent. Sif knelt before her, panting, her hand over her neck where Coada had bitten. Coada’s eyes widened in panic. Sif looked up at her with a smile.

“Your winner, Coada Alba!” the dragonborn's voice boomed as the crowd erupted in cheers.

Sif stood and approached Coada, extending her hand. “You are an excellent warrior. It was an honor to fight you,” Sif boomed.

“I—” Coada hesitated, taking her hand. She bit her tongue, nodding as they shook hands.

“Come on,” Sif smiled, nodding toward the left door that had quietly swung open.

Coada nodded, following her into the dark hall.

Sethie and Wora cheered wildly as Coada exited. Sumayya sat back with a slight smile, clapping. Her eyes were drawn to the movement near her as Arden and the pair with him stood and quietly left the auditorium.

The dragonborn entered again and began to announce the final battle as Wora and Sethie settled back beside Sumayya to watch the final match.

Coada followed Sif back to the staging area, her heart still racing.

“You fight well,” Sif smiled at Coada.

Coada winced as the cleric pressed on her chest and began to heal her ribs. “Y-You definitely almost had me.”

“Ha! But you were better!”

Coada smiled and shook her head, looking down away from Sif. I can’t believe I was so vicious in front of an audience, she thought to herself. The sound of chatter and footsteps pulled Coada from her trance as she looked up. A small group approached from the far-left door: an older dwarf man, a familiar human man, a halfling man, and a water genasi woman.

“Coada Alba!” Arden called. “Never thought I’d see you out of those church walls.”

“Arden?” Coada questioned. “What are you doing here?”

Arden laughed as the dwarven man stepped up, dropping a pouch of coin into Coada’s hands. “Your reward,” the man said, turning back to Arden with a respectful nod before leaving.

“Well, I came to make sure you didn’t do too much damage to my friend here,” Arden continued, patting Sif’s shoulder.

Coada’s eyes flickered in panic as the group began to surround Sif and banter about the battle. “I am sorry,” Coada began. “I did not know she was with you.”

“If that would have made you hold back, then I’m glad you didn’t know,” Sif laughed.

The group chuckled. “Forgive my rudeness, though,” Arden nodded toward Coada. “Coada is a member of House Arcea, the temple I was practically raised in. Coada, you’ve met Sif Vandr, but these here are Louon Rafkin and Shifa Enara. I suppose you could call them my party.”

Coada’s brow raised. “I don’t follow.”

“I guess you hadn’t heard,” Arden rubbed his neck, looking away awkwardly. “I stepped down from my position. With the increase in Wasting cases, and magic being corrupted, I wanted to investigate that and try to do something useful for the world.”

Coada scanned his group.

“We’re actually leaving first thing tomorrow for the Ashlands,” Shifa added.

“I see,” Coada said thoughtfully. “I wish you the best in your travels then.”

Sif leaned over, placing her large hand over Coada’s shoulder. “Come now, it doesn’t have to be goodbye just yet! Come, drink with us! Celebrate your victory.”

Arden smiled and nodded. “That sounds like a fine plan.”

Cheers erupted from beyond the gates, and moments later, a pair of fighters stumbled through, the clerics rushing to attend to their wounds. “Come,” Arden said softly. “I saw Wora in the crowd. I assume for you. Let’s grab her and hit the town for the night.”

Coada smiled and stood, following the odd group up the stairs and into the cold night air. As the crowd filtered out, Coada and Sif were met by several viewers, shaking their hands, congratulating them on their fight, or just staring at them.

“We stand out quite a bit here,” Sif laughed.

Coada nodded, slinking behind her as she awaited Wora. As the crowd dissipated, Coada spotted her friends exiting the arena. Wora spotted them first, waving and skipping over. Sethie and Sumayya followed close behind.

“I see you’ve made friends!” Wora called, bowing her head to Arden as she approached.

Arden bowed his head in response. Wora smiled and turned toward Sethie and Sumayya. “Please meet Sethie and Sarah, they are Coada’s current associates.”

Arden bowed his head to each of them, and they responded in kind. “Please meet my friends, Louon, Shifa, and Sif!” he smiled.

Sethie smiled warmly as Sumayya nodded. “What a woman,” Sumayya mumbled under her breath to Sethie as she surveyed Sif. Sethie chuckled, skipping past to hug Coada. Wora followed suit.

Coada squeezed them tight. “We have been invited to go dancing with Arden tonight,” she whispered.

Sethie and Wora’s eyes lit up. “That sounds marvelous!” Sethie smiled.

“It’s settled then!” Sif added with a smile. Arden nodded and led the strange group through the dance streets to a nearby dance hall, where music spilled out of the windows and drew them in.

Arden led with Louon, chatting away about their plans for tomorrow's travel. Sethie and Wora followed behind with their arms linked on either side of Coada. Sumayya followed silently with Shifa, Sif trailing both behind.

The dance hall buzzed with energy as the golden light from chandeliers flickered overhead, casting warm glows across the floor. The sounds of laughter, music, and the rhythmic clinking of glasses filled the air. It was a night made for revelry.

Arden, ever the nobleman, was at ease among the crowd. He moved with a grace that caught the eye, engaging in lighthearted conversations with friends, strangers, and even some unfamiliar faces who were eager for his attention. His laughter echoed through the hall, a stark contrast to the more reserved presence of his companions.

Wora stood by the bar with Sethie, her eyes alight with mischief. She tossed back a goblet of wine, grinning widely. "I’m excited to see where it leads!" she declared, nudging Sethie, who chuckled at her enthusiasm.

Sif had already taken to the dance floor with Arden, Louon, and Coada. Wora followed quickly, tossing back another goblet and dragging Sethie into the crowd.

Sumayya watched the dancers with a serene gaze. Her eyes flickered to the group from time to time, noting the way each person interacted with the others. Beside her, Shifa stood like a sentry, her back straight and her eyes scanning the room with precision. She was the quiet one—often more like a shadow, always aware of her surroundings.

"Come on, you two!" Sif shouted, her voice carrying over the crowd and startling the more reserved of the group. "Don’t just stand there—this is a dance hall! The night’s young, and it’s made for fun!"

Shifa's lips tightened into a brief smile, but she didn’t move from her spot. Sumayya offered a gentle shake of her head, but the warmth in her eyes indicated she was enjoying the experience in her own way. Coada and Sif exchanged a brief glance before pushing through the crowd to join their wallflowers.

Coada coiled her tail around Shifa, pulling her into her arms with a flare and dancing her into the crowd. Shifa begrudgingly followed her lead, stifling a smile. Sif bowed before Sumayya, extending her hand. “A dance,” she hummed, “For me?”

Sumayya flushed, bowing her head as she took Sif’s hand. Sif pulled her in tight, spinning Sumayya into the crowd as they all danced away the evening. It wasn’t long before Wora, utterly lost in the spirit of the night, came stumbling over. She’d taken more than one drink, and her steps had become a little wobbly. "Ah, Sumayya! Shifa!" she called with a loud, jovial laugh.

Shifa’s gaze flickered toward Wora, eyes narrowing for just a second as she assessed the situation. Her usual stoic expression softened with a barely perceptible sigh. "You're already halfway to the astral, Wora," she muttered, her tone dry, though there was a hint of amusement beneath the surface.

Coada raised an eyebrow, walking over to stand beside her. "Perhaps we should get her home." She moved swiftly to Wora’s side, wrapping one arm around her and keeping her steady.

Wora giggled, her eyes half-lidded but sparkling with glee. "You’re just jealous! I’m having a great time!"

Sethie spun from Arden to Wora’s side. “You’ve had a lot of fun tonight, I see,” she chuckled. “Let’s head home.”

Coada looked to Sumayya as she danced with Sif and Shifa. Sumayya nodded in response and whispered goodbyes before joining their side. Coada and Sethie nodded goodbye to Arden and his group before leading Wora out into the winter night, Sumayya close behind.

The walk back was slow, as Wora continued to ramble in a drunken haze. Her wild tales about the night's adventures only grew more outlandish with each step.

Finally, they arrived at their destination. Wora, still giggling, was safely inside, sitting with a soft thud on the nearest couch. "I had a great time," she declared, her words barely understandable through her tipsy haze. "Next time, we should all go again. I’ll show you how it’s done!"

Coada smiled, running a hand through her hair. "Next time, we’ll keep you on your feet."

Session 6, Part 3 - The Prisoner

Dawn came quickly for the party. Coada grunted as she sat up, rolling her left shoulder. Sumayya sat in her bed, already awake, journaling in the dim morning light.

“Morning,” Sumayya whispered.

“Morning,” Coada groaned.

Sumayya snapped her book shut and leaned forward. “Are you sure about this? It’s one thing to investigate a magical sickness, but going face-to-face with a crazed mage?”

Coada nodded. “It’s worth the risk.”

Sethie rolled over sleepily. “G’morning,” she whispered.

Sumayya smiled at her as she stood to dress for the day. Sethie lazily sat up and followed suit. Soon, the trio was out in the cold streets, a fresh dusting of snow covering the city, falling slowly through the quiet air.

The smell of winter was strong, and the snow seemed to dampen all sound, casting an eerie silence over the streets. Coada led the group toward Torch Side. Sethie’s breath caught as they approached the complex—a small hooded group waiting outside. Six figures: five in white robes accented with silver and gold, and one in pale blue and gray—the colors of the House of Healing.

The last figure lowered her hood. Her gray, curly hair was pulled loosely behind her ears, and her dark skin contrasted with the light colors around her.

“Mother Warren,” Coada said, bowing her head.

Warren bowed in response. “Good morning, Coada. I’ve heard much about you.”

The other figures lowered their hoods, revealing their elven features. Beside Mother Warren stood an elven man with long golden-blond hair and sharp blue eyes.

“You must be Coada,” he said, his tone cold.

Coada bowed her head. Sethie and Sumayya followed suit.

“And they are?” he continued, looking at the pair behind Coada.

“They’re assisting me with my investigation,” Coada replied firmly, then turned to the group of elves. “And you are?”

The man surveyed her with suspicion. “Insurance,” he said. “Ruen Fioras.”

“Coada Alba,” she responded.

Ruen nodded and turned toward the gate where a dwarven guard stood patiently. The dwarf unlocked the gate, leading the group inwards. They passed through the large stone walls, the same place where Sethie had come to collect her sister days earlier. The prison building stretched south along the wall, through an even heavier gate lined with guards. Beyond it lay a barren courtyard, with a tall cylindrical stone building towering at the center.

“They call this the Panopticon,” Sethie whispered to Sumayya.

The large tower was lined with guards, and heavy doors groaned open as the group approached. The hall was narrow, forcing them to file in two-by-two. Cells stretched upward along the outer walls, surrounding a central guard tower. The party followed into the center tower and were funneled into a tight spiral stairwell leading downwards. The air was cold, and the space seemed to amplify every sound, a tense electricity charging the atmosphere.

At the base of the stairs, the mages positioned themselves around a small room with only four cells. Ruen led the party and Warren to one of the cells, wordlessly gesturing for them to approach.

A small figure sat motionless in the shadowed cell, her elven features starkly defined against the dark ink of tattoos coiling around her body. Her shaved head emphasized the harsh angles of her face. After a moment of feigned disinterest, she shifted her gaze lazily from the cell door to the wall, then back again. Her eyes narrowed, and a slow, knowing smile spread across her lips. Rising, she turned toward the cell door, revealing a fresh bandage on her right arm where her hand had once been, still stained with blood. With a deliberate gesture, she tapped her bloodied wrist to her throat, her gaze flicking past the party to the mages. Ruen nodded, tracing a symbol in the air. The runes surrounding her cell dimmed, and an oppressive silence seemed to lift.

“Well, well, well…” Danyell’s smirk widened. “It seems the cursed gods have blessed me today. Little seedlings… Come to chat?”

A heavy silence filled the room as Danyell leaned casually against the cell bars. “Tell me, seedlings, what are we when we are stripped of all that the gods have bestowed upon us?”

The three tensed, their faces etched with unease. Danyell leaned casually on the bars. “Surely you remember,” she said, nodding at Coada. “You—child of Arceous—surely you recall your teachings.”

“We’re here to ask about the Wasting,” Coada said firmly. A strange wave of energy rippled through them. Coada maintained her composure, gazing unwaveringly at the figure before her. Sethie and Sumayya, however, were overwhelmed by an unsettling sense of being seen. Before they could process it, the sensation quickly dissipated.

Danyell’s expression darkened, her tone growing cold. “Come now. I will not answer your questions until you have answered mine. Let me assist you. Lauthrir, the King of the Heavens, bestowed upon us our minds to perceive the world. Your holy avenger, Arceous, the mother of Aasimar, crafted our bodies to experience it. Eagin gifted us with the knowledge to learn and evolve. Firgen imbued us with spirit, the will to survive and explore. Olfjar, the wooden wolf, gave us art—to create from this world something of our own. And the Three Queens cursed us with mortality to ensure we remain forever lesser than the gods.”

“And, lest we forget, Ornalli, the god of the sun, endowed us with a hunger for all things.” Danyell’s gaze shifted to Sumayya. “Isn’t it ironic that the god of the sun would bless you with hunger?”

Sumayya stiffened as Danyell’s gaze flicked back to Coada.

“So what remains?” Danyell asked, her voice growing ominous. “What of us endures, despite the gods' efforts?”

Silence hung heavy in the room. “Our souls?” Sethie whispered.

Danyell laughed with a cold sharpness. “Very good, Sethie. Now, what was your question?”

Coada pressed on. “What do you know about the Wasting?”

“Lots,” Danyell replied with a smile that didn’t reach her eyes. “But surely that wasn’t your question.”

“What can you tell me about the Wasting, then?” Coada’s frustration was evident.

“Very many things, but you’ll need to be more specific to get an answer from me.”

Coada’s jaw clenched. Sumayya interjected, “What is the Wasting?”

Danyell’s face darkened once more. “Consequences.”

Coada persisted. “What causes it?”

Danyell’s reply was curt. “No.”

Sumayya tried again. “Is there a source or pattern?”

Danyell’s expression was unmoving. “No.”

Coada pressed further. “So there’s no source or pattern?”

Danyell leaned into the bars. “No…”

“No, what?” Coada growled.

“These questions bore me,” Danyell said. “And you are too young and inexperienced for such answers. My turn.” She fixed her gaze on Coada, her smile widening. “How does it feel to be the first mortal in over two thousand years to receive a message from the gods?”

The three stiffened, their eyes darting around the cell. Danyell’s voice dropped to a whisper. “Don’t worry,” she said. “It’s just us talking.”

Time around them froze. They hadn’t noticed it at first, no visible spell had been cast. The room’s occupants appeared in stasis, the only present being the three of them and Danyell. The tension was deafening. Coada’s stomach churned. “How do you know about that?”

“Oh, I know many things, my little seedling. Perhaps you should be more specific with your questions.”

Frustrated, Coada pulled out the etchings they’d found in the cabin. “What about these? What are they?”

Danyell glanced at the paper, her disinterest evident. “A small-minded question… Next?”

Coada’s frustration boiled over. “Do you know of a cure?”

“…Small-minded question…”

Sumayya interjected. “What about the moon? What is it?”

Danyell’s eyes lit up. “Bigger-minded question.”

Sethie pressed. “So, will you answer?”

“No.”

Silence fell again, frustration boiling from the trio. “Come now, we’re nearly out of time,” Danyell announced. “Do you have anything else, or will you continue to bore me?”

Coada took a deep breath and began to channel her boon, focusing intently on Danyell. The elven figure’s smile grew again. “Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. Don’t use my powers against me, seedling.” The wave of energy reflected back toward Coada.

Their eyes widened in shock. Coada gasped. “What did you—”

“Now, that’s quite enough. You’ve had your fun.” Danyell waved her hand, and the room seemed to come back to life. The trio refocused, understanding the game. They pressed her with questions about the Wasting, but Danyell’s responses remained dismissive, always a cold “No,” until they exhausted their queries.

Throughout the exchange, Ruen’s gaze never wavered from the three, scrutinizing every word, every movement. As the conversation ended, he traced the same symbol as before, reigniting the runes. A heavy silence fell over the room.

“Well, I suppose we should be going,” Mother Warren said, squeezing Coada’s arm and leading them toward the stairs.

Ruen added, “I’ve been interrogating her relentlessly, and not a word. But you lot—” he nodded at them, “—piqued her interest. She engaged with you… she finally spoke.”

“She didn’t really say much,” Coada responded.

Ruen’s eyes narrowed. “So it seems. Yet you still gleaned something from this encounter. Or am I mistaken?”

Mother Warren stepped between the party and the archmage. “I must insist that is enough. If you wish to interrogate Coada or her associates further, you’ll need to speak with Umeran and follow the proper channels. Until then, we are leaving.” She turned and ushered the group up the stairs and into the bright fall day.

“You’ll have to forgive me for cutting in like that,” Warren whispered to Coada as they passed the guard gates. “Ruen is a dangerous man, and suspicious of everyone. The last thing you want is to be under his gaze.”

Coada nodded, looking at Sethie and Sumayya. A sinking feeling filled her stomach. “We got what we came for, I suppose. It was worth the risk.” She hesitated. “I need to speak with Umeran as soon as possible. Immediately, if possible.”

Warren’s eyes widened slightly. “I will see what I can do. One moment.” She paused, casting a spell beneath her breath. After a moment, she nodded to herself. “Very well,” Warren continued. “Follow me.”

Sumayya and Sethie exchanged glances, concern on their faces. “It’s okay,” Coada assured them. “Let’s go.”

They followed quietly as Mother Warren led them from the Panopticon and through the narrow city streets. Warren paused again, hesitating at the temple of Ornalli within the Ten Spires before turning to Coada. “He will be in his office on the second floor. I trust you know the way from here?”

Coada nodded. “I wish you luck in your work,” Warren sighed. “For now, I must return to mine.”

“Thank you,” Coada whispered as she took Warren's hand before turning forward and entering the temple.

“Till next time,” Warren said, with a curt nod to Sumayya and Sethie, before heading back into the narrow streets of Ysora.

They watched her round the corner before turning back to Coada, who waited patiently in the doorway.

“What are you doing?” Sumayya asked.

“I’m doing what Wora recommended,” Coada said. “I’m telling them about the vision.” She looked away, toward the grand temple adorned in golds and reds. Great fires burned in braziers lining the walls, emanating summer heat even in the cold winter air.

“We’re with you,” Sethie affirmed as she stepped to Coada’s side, gesturing forward.

Coada looked at Sethie, then to Sumayya, who nodded quietly.

Together, they traveled up to the second floor, where Coada led them to a grand doorway. She took a deep breath before knocking.

“Come in!” a warm voice bellowed from within.

Coada opened the door, revealing a large room lined with bookshelves. A stained-glass depiction of the blazing sun stretched from floor to ceiling behind a large oak desk. Seated at the desk was Umeran. He greeted them with a kind smile, nodding to his halfling assistant, who bowed and left the room, closing the door behind her as the trio took their seats before the desk. Umeran had a warm, fatherly face, his dark skin almost glowing. His features were sharp and distinctly elvish, yet softened with age. His dark hair was cut short, and he wore an extravagant set of red robes, lined with gold and rubies.

“I’m told you have something urgent, Coada,” he began.

“Yes,” Coada replied, straightening in her seat. “I received a vision from Arcea.”

Umeran’s smile faded, and he muttered a spell under his breath. A subtle compulsion of truthfulness began to scratch at the back of their minds. Coada willingly allowed the energy to press through, while Sethie held strong. Sumayya, however, failed to resist the compulsion. She shrunk into her seat, assuming a more demure posture, and squeezed Sethie’s arm. Sethie glanced over, recognizing the unspoken request.

“I hope you’ll understand,” Umeran continued, his tone calm but firm. “That’s a significant claim, and I need to be sure you’re telling the truth.”

Coada nodded. “I understand.”

Umeran turned to Sethie and Sumayya. “I’m sorry, I didn’t catch your names.”

“I’m Sethie,” Sethie replied, “and this is Sarah.”

Umeran’s eyes narrowed slightly as he studied Sumayya. “I see.”

Coada quickly refocused his attention. “I was sent a warning,” she said. “I saw a great army of darkness approaching the city, our warriors barely holding them back.”

“And do you know when this army is coming?” Umeran asked, his voice steady but probing.

“N-no.” Coada hesitated, lowering her head. “It feels urgent, though.”

“I see. Was there anything else?”

“A moon,” Coada whispered, her voice barely audible.

“I don’t follow.”

“Lauthrious,” Coada murmured. “It had a moon—blood-red and looming over the battlefield. It felt like it was somehow connected to the creatures.”

“Hm.” Umeran leaned back, scratching his chin thoughtfully. “Not sure what that means. I would advise you to visit the Ysoran Grand Archives. The tomekeepers may have some records on that. In the meantime, I’ll see what we can find. And Coada…”

“Yes?”

“Expect me to call on you soon. You are ordered to remain within the city until further notice.”

Coada nodded.

“Good. You’re excused.” Umeran waved them off.

Coada stood and bowed once more. Sumayya and Sethie followed suit before they all left the room.

As they stepped back into the streets, Coada gasped, seeing how low the sun had sunk in the sky. Somehow, they had already spent most of the day. “We might be late!” she called out to Sumayya and Sethie, rushing toward the bustling city center.

Session 6 Part 2 - Hunting

Sethie skipped up the stairs, hugging Orianna, Zhera, and then Gnash. She turned back toward Coada, extending her hand.

“Gnash, this is Coada. Coada, meet Gnash—he’s a family friend,” she said cheerfully.

Coada nodded and took a seat beside Zhera. Gnash leaned back in his chair, eyeing Coada with suspicion.

“Didn’t expect you to make such fast friends with guards,” Gnash said with a smirk, puffing his cigar toward her.

Sethie rolled her eyes and sat down beside him. “She’s with the church. Hardly a guard, if you ask me.”

“She’s from House Arcea,” Gnash said, gesturing to Coada’s armor. “Clearly a war cleric. There’s not much difference between the two.”

“Is there a problem?” Coada growled.

“We’ll see,” Gnash smirked.

Sethie sensed the immediate tension between the two and quickly changed the subject. “Anyways… Mom, remember when I asked if you could leave town?”

Orianna nodded, offering tea to Sethie and Coada as she took a seat.

“Well, I think the time is now.”

“Now?” Orianna raised an eyebrow, glancing between Sethie and Coada.

“I can’t say much,” Coada began, “but something is coming. It’s best if you’re somewhere safe.”

“Hm.” Gnash grunted, leaning forward. “Interestingly enough, I agree.”

“You what?” Orianna looked at him, surprised.

“I came because of those disappearances we discussed. Whatever’s behind them has gotten more aggressive. I’d feel better if you were out of harm’s way.”

“Disappearances?” Coada inquired.

“Yeah, and since your people aren’t doing anything about it, we have to.” Gnash scoffed.

“What are you blaming me for?” Coada hissed.

“If there are disappearances,” Sethie interjected, cutting through the tension, “then maybe we can do something about it.”

Orianna shook her head. “No, no. I’m not letting my daughter run toward danger like that!”

“I’m more than capable, and I have allies I can trust to watch my back,” Sethie barked.

Orianna opened her mouth to protest, but Gnash interrupted. “Ori— I’ll see to it that you and Zhera get out of town tonight. If Sethie insists on being the hero, I’ll stay by her side and make sure she’s safe.”

Orianna huffed but sank back into her seat.

“Plus,” Gnash said, reaching into his pack and pulling out a shortbow, “I have a gift for you.”

Sethie’s eyes lit up. “Oh, Gnash!”

“We can’t have you trying to fight on the front lines, and your magic isn’t infinite. This should help,” he said, placing the bow into her hands.

Sethie grinned and hugged him tightly, then turned to show Zhera. “Let’s go practice some shots!” she signed.

“Uh-uh,” Orianna commanded, signing as she spoke. “Zhera and I need to pack.”

“Well, we can go,” Gnash suggested.

Sethie nodded, giving Zhera another hug before leading Gnash and Coada into the small courtyard behind her home.

Coada took position across from Sethie and held out her shield. “Here’s your target,” she called.

Sethie furrowed her brow. “Are you sure about that?”

Gnash laughed. “Go on, this’ll be great. How often does a guard let you shoot them?”

Coada shook her head mockingly at him. Sethie chuckled and drew back her bow. Clank! The first shot slammed into the shield and ricocheted.

“Good shot!” Gnash cheered.

Sethie notched another arrow. Clank! Another hit.

Coada smiled. “You’re a natural!”

Draw. Release. Clank. Draw. Release. Clank. Draw. Release. Woosh. The arrow skimmed the edge of the shield, grazing a deep gash into Coada’s arm. She grunted but held firm.

“Looks like we’re shooting our allies now, huh?” a voice called from the alley behind Sethie and Gnash.

Sethie jumped, turning to see Sumayya smiling playfully.

Coada laughed, casting a quick healing spell on her arm. “It’s nothing. Sethie’s a damn good shot.”

“I can see that,” Sumayya said, licking her lip as she glanced down at the closed wound.

“Sarah, this is Gnash, a family friend. Gnash, this is Sarah.”

“Pleasure,” Sumayya said, bowing her head and extending her hand to him.

“The pleasure’s all mine,” Gnash replied with playful flirtation, taking her hand and bowing.

“Now,” Gnash said, turning back to Sethie, “We’ve got some daylight left, and I’ve got intel on a group that’s wanted by the guards. They’re hiding out in our neck of the woods. Want to get some real practice?”

Sethie hesitated.

“I could use a good hunt,” Sumayya said, her voice calm but laced with a touch of viciousness.

Gnash smiled and nodded. “And you, Arcean?”

Coada rolled her eyes. “Sure.”

Sethie nodded, handing the bow to Gnash. “Let me say goodbye really quick,” she whispered before jogging back into her house.

Orianna and Zhera were still packing when Sethie entered. She ran into their room, giving Zhera a tight hug.

“I’m going to miss you,” she signed. “Stay safe, and don’t be a stranger. Also, keep Mom on her toes. If we don’t give her a few gray hairs, we didn’t do our jobs right.”

Zhera laughed. “I will. Please visit.”

Sethie nodded, turning to see Orianna standing in the doorway with two small boxes. She handed one to each of them, signing, “This was a gift for later, but you’ll need them now. Go ahead.”

Sethie and Zhera opened the boxes to reveal small, faintly glowing palm stones. They exchanged a glance before looking up at their mother.

“Sending stones,” Orianna continued. “So you two can stay in touch no matter how far apart you are.”

Sethie’s eyes welled up as she jumped up and hugged her mother.

“Please be safe,” Orianna whispered. “I’m so proud of you.”

Sethie trembled, burying her face in her mother’s shoulder, tears running down both their faces. Zhera joined the embrace. After a moment, Sethie stepped back, wiping away her tears. “I promise to visit,” she whispered, signing.

Orianna nodded and hugged her one last time before sending her off.

Sethie stepped back into the cold air, patting her cheeks to restore some color and wiping away the last of her tears. She gazed up at the cloudy sky and sighed deeply before returning to her group.

“Ready?” Gnash called as she rounded the corner.

Sethie nodded, her confidence returning. She took the bow and slung it over her shoulder. “Let’s go.”

The group followed Gnash north, through winding streets to the outskirts of the North Corner. The houses gave way to craggy rock and steep slopes, many buildings run down or abandoned. Gnash led them cautiously, stopping before an old, forgotten house, its windows and door boarded up.

“What’s the plan?” Sethie asked.

Gnash eyed the party. “Sarah and I will circle around the back and look for an entrance. You look for a way in on the side, and you…” He gestured toward Coada, “You guard the front. Can’t have you clanking around and giving us away.”

Coada huffed but nodded as Gnash, Sumayya, and Sethie crept around the building. They found a small crack in a window on the right wall. Sethie peered through and saw four figures inside. “I can see them from here,” she whispered.

Gnash nodded, continuing around to the back, with Sumayya close behind. At the back, Gnash began quietly working on the lock. Sethie kept an eye on the figures through the window. They seemed to be positioned facing the front door, one of them holding a long, thin barrel.

“I think they know you’re there,” Sethie messaged to Coada telepathically.

“So what’s the plan?” Coada responded urgently.

“Any luck?” Sethie messaged to Sumayya.

“Working on it,” she replied.

Coada tensed in frustration, waiting for a response or a sign.

“I think they know we’re here,” Sethie messaged. “The faster, the better.”

“We can only go so fast,” Sumayya responded. “Give us another minute.”

Coada clenched her jaw. “Hello?” she thought to herself, but after another minute, there was still no sign of movement.

“Almost there,” Gnash whispered as he continued working on the lock.

The figures held their position. Coada groaned. “Fine, I’ll do it myself,” she whispered as she drew her weapon. She charged the door, bursting through the rotted wood with ease. Bam! The flash from a thin barrel exploded toward her. She staggered back, her left arm going limp as the pain surged through her.

She looked down at the wound. She had never seen a gun in person, let alone been shot by one. Anger surged as she charged forward, swinging her blade down hard.

Her strike met another as a heavily armored man leaped in front of her. Sethie hurried to rip the boards off the windows.

Sumayya quickly scaled the wall, searching for a way in on the roof. Gnash watched her, confused. “Forget this,” he muttered, smashing the lock with his dagger.

As Sumayya reached the top, a cloud of mist evaporated as the woman with the rifle appeared on the roof, aiming through a hole at Coada.

The other two figures charged around the armored man, flanking Coada. One swung daggers, grazing her armor, while the other swung a warhammer at her already wounded arm, staggering her.

Coada grunted in pain, pulling her blade back and striking the armored man. He dodged back, and Gnash charged, lodging a dagger into his thigh. The man screamed, swinging down at Coada, but she narrowly avoided the strike. Bam! Another shot rang out, and Coada’s ears began to ring again, but the bullet just missed.

The woman to her right swung again, slashing deep into Coada’s tail. Sethie called out as she climbed through the window, casting a barrage of psychic energy over the woman. The other man swung again, crashing into Coada’s armor. 

Sumayya charged silently towards the unsuspecting shooter as she drew her main blade, she swung upwards, clanking against the metal of the rifle and flinging it from the woman’s grip. 

The armored man swung again, as Coada deflected the blade with her own as she swung right into the woman and sliced deep into her side. The shooter pulled out a small revolver as her rifle clattered to the ground, ignoring Sumayya and taking another shot towards Coada, striking her left shoulder again. Coada’s vision began to blur. Sumayya growled as she swung on the shooter again, slashing across her arm and stomach. “Not deep enough.” she thought to herself.

The woman beside Coada swung on her again, but the barrage of psychic energy continued to flood her mind. She swung wide, missing Coada entirely. Sethie loosed an arrow, hitting the woman in the neck. She collapsed.

The man on Coada’s left cried out in anger and swung again at Coada’s chest, sending her crashing into a wall. Gnash threw another dagger, hitting the armored man in a gap between his armor, and the man fell to the ground, gurgling.

The shooter turned toward Sumayya, but Sumayya plunged her blade into her. The woman spat defiantly before falling limp.

The last man charged at Gnash, but Gnash dodged and threw a dagger into his shoulder. Sethie ran to Coada, singing out healing words as the light flickered back into her eyes.

Gnash faced the man, who swung once more. Gnash ducked between his legs, then threw his final dagger, landing it in the back of the man’s head. He crumpled to the floor.

The group paused in silence, waiting for another attack, but none came. Sethie continued healing Coada while Sumayya retrieved weapons from the fallen.

“We should go quickly,” Gnash urged. “This wasn’t quiet, and I’m sure the guards will be here soon.”

“I’ll handle them,” Coada groaned, standing shakily. “You guys take what you can.”

Sumayya nodded and began searching the bodies. “Here,” Gnash called, tossing a small box into Coada’s arms. “They stole this from the royal docs and brought their troubles here.”

Coada nodded. “I’ll return it and make sure they back off.”

“Sure you will,” Gnash joked.

Coada grumbled and exited to wait for the guards. Sumayya tossed the rifle to Sethie, pocketing two revolvers and their ammunition. Gnash gathered his daggers, and the trio slipped through the back door, heading back to Orianna’s.

“Congratulations on your first job,” Gnash said, patting Sethie on the shoulder. “I’ll have your payment tomorrow.”

“Payment?” Sethie asked.

Gnash lit a fresh cigar, waving as he walked away. “I don’t let anyone work for me for free. I’ll stop by tomorrow.”

Sethie looked at Sumayya, who shrugged, before they entered Orianna’s empty home. Sumayya hesitated in the storefront, but Sethie reassured her, leading the way up the stairs where they waited in tense silence for Coada’s return.

As the sun began to set, they heard the door jingle.

“Coada?” Sethie called.

“Yeah, yeah,” Coada groaned as she climbed the stairs and sank tiredly into a chair.

They sat in silence for a moment.

“So…” Coada hesitated. “I spoke with the guards, and everything is good there. I also spoke with the guard captain.”

Sumayya raised an eyebrow. Sethie leaned in. “About?”

“Well, I had a vision after trying to peer into the Wasting.” Coada paused, reflecting on the experience. “It felt the same as when I tried to push deeper into the sickness.”

“And what does that have to do with the guards?” Sumayya asked.

“There’s a prisoner there—the one Wora was talking about. She was a brilliant mage who snapped. If this is connected, I want to speak with her. And I’d like both of you by my side.”

“Danyell Loris, right? The one who killed the High Treasurer?” Sethie asked.

“Yes,” Coada nodded. “I’ve arranged an audience for tomorrow morning.”

“That was suspiciously fast,” Sumayya scoffed.

“Well, I just returned an item meant for Ruen Fioras, the king’s chief advisor. He’s also overseeing her imprisonment since she was once his pupil. A favor for a favor.”

“Hm.” Sumayya shrugged. “I suppose we should get some rest, then.”

Sethie nodded, and the three of them retired to her room for the evening.

Session 6 Part 1 - Crypts

Coada’s eyes shot open as she sprang to her feet, drawing her weapon and freezing in place. Her breath hitched as she scanned the room, the warm fire sputtering before her, dusty bookshelves lining the walls. She turned to her seat. Ovar sat quietly, eyes wide, his book now closed in his hands. He watched her, giving a questioning nod as she calmed herself and plopped back down beside him.

She dropped her weapon with a thud and buried her face in her hands, trying to catch her breath. Ovar stood quietly and hurried out of the room, returning moments later with a decanter full of fire whiskey and two glasses. He poured one and handed it to her, sitting back down to wait for her to speak. Coada smiled softly at him.

"Thanks," she whispered, taking the glass from his hand and drinking deeply before continuing.

“I had a dream…” Coada hesitated, “No… That’s not it. I think I had a vision.”

Ovar raised an eyebrow. "How so?"

“It was a message from Arcea, I think. A warning.”

Ovar leaned in with intense focus. "What did you see?"

“I was looking over the city of Ysora,” Coada continued, “and there was an army of twisted creatures fighting our forces. Neither side was winning.”

Coada paused, staring into the fire. “I think it’s time,” she whispered.

“For?” Ovar asked.

“Time to get the kids—and you—out of Ysora. If this is a vision, I don’t want any of you here for what’s coming.” Her eyes were sharp with certainty.

Ovar nodded. “I can do that. When dawn comes, we’ll leave. You’ll handle things here?”

Coada nodded.

“Want me to send a message to Wora? She should know.”

Coada shook her head. “I’ll go to her.”

Ovar pulled her into a tight hug. “Just promise you won’t get yourself killed.”

Coada laughed softly, returning the hug. “Promise,” she said with a softened smile. “Get the kids out, and I’ll be sure to visit.”

“It’s a deal,” he said, standing. “I’ll start packing their things.”

Coada stood, mouthing a quiet "Thank you" as he left the room.

She turned back to the fire, her eyes fixed on the smoldering blaze. The low hum of the flames seemed to grow louder, the inferno twisting into the shape of that crimson moon, filling her vision. Coada stumbled back into her seat, her vision returning to the fireplace, now calm and familiar. She shook her head, picking up her weapon and sheathing it before leaving the room.

Ovar locked eyes with her as he passed by with a handful of bags, offering a reassuring nod. She responded in kind before stepping out into the crisp morning air.

Gnash startled awake to the sound of knocking at his door. He glanced out the window to see the dark sky tinged with the faintest pinkish dawn. Another frantic knock. “Coming!” he groaned as he rolled out of bed and stumbled down the stairs.

He opened the door cautiously. A dwarven man stood before him, tense and urgent. “Boss,” the man said, “You need to come see this. Quickly.”

Gnash nodded, shutting the door behind him, rushing upstairs to dress. Moments later, he stepped out onto the street, cigar freshly lit, and followed the dwarven man through the familiar Hilltop streets.

“This has to stop,” the dwarven man muttered. “There are too many of us are sufferin’, and the guards aren’t doin’ shit about it.”

“Another disappearance?” Gnash asked, staying close behind.

“Worse,” the man replied, stopping before a small cottage along a canal.

Gnash looked past the man as he paused the quiet street. A window on the first floor was shattered inward, and a trail of blood led into the waterway. Gnash placed a hand on the man’s shoulder and shifted his conciousness into Raphael’s form. The man, recognizing his movement, placed his hand on Gnash’s, leading them into a side street. Gnash jumped down and scurried through the broken window.

The room inside was dark and disheveled. Tables and chairs were overturned, dishes shattered, and small blood spatters led out of the room and up the stairs. Gnash followed the trail to a small bedroom, where the door had been shattered. Inside, more puddles of crimson were scattered around, and a dark trail led out the window.

Gnash returned to his own form and waited quietly for Raphael’s return.

“Well?” the man asked expectantly.

“This thing is getting bold,” Gnash hesitated. “Or desperate. Do you know how many?”

“At least three—Raina ‘n Jhouran Stremhald… and their son, Veroun.”

“Shit,” Gnash exhaled. “I’ll up the reward. Start spreading the word around town.”

The man nodded and hurried out of the alley. Gnash sighed deeply before following him. A guard had noticed the scene and had begun barking orders, calling out for other guards to assist him, and a small crowd was gathering as the pink sky lit the gore-streaked building. Gnash shook his head and sighed again before heading back towards the North Corner.

Sethie woke just before dawn, rolling over to see her sister still fast asleep. She smiled and gently brushed Zhera’s hair back. Zhera grumbled and rolled over. Sethie smiled, stretching and letting out a long yawn as she sat up and began quietly dressing for the day. Her mother peeked in as Sethie picked up her pack and turned towards the door.

“Up early?” Orianna asked.

Sethie smiled. “Going to meet up with Coada and Sumayya. I should be back later today.”

Orianna smiled softly. “Well, have fun and stay safe.”

Sethie nodded, hugging her mother as she passed, then trotted down the stairs and out into the city. The air smelled cold and bit into her lungs. Sethie stifled a cough as she made her way toward the city center, the dark blue sky now fading to pink, dotted with clouds heavy with moisture.

It was a brisk walk, Sethie humming as she passed the old wall and entered the heart of the city. Soon, she reached the city center, where life was just beginning to stir. Her brow raised when she saw Coada and Sumayya already waiting by the fountain. “And here I thought I was early!” she called cheerfully.

Sumayya smiled softly, nodding hello beneath a heavy cloak. Coada gave a curt nod.

Sethie paused, narrowing her eyes. “Everything okay?” she asked.

Sumayya glanced at Coada. “I wondered the same thing,” she murmured.

“It’s fine,” Coada growled. “Let’s just get this job done, and we can talk after.”

Sumayya shrugged and stood, moving to Sethie’s side. Sethie squinted at Coada before relenting. “Sure,” she said softly. “After.”

Coada sighed in relief as she led the pair out of the Town Center and into Kings Run, a small area of tightly packed buildings far grander than other parts of the city with fine marble and ornate statues littering the area, leading to a large courtyard before the castle gates. To the south of the courtyard stood an old temple, expertly preserved and seemingly from a long-lost era, its grey marble columns detailed with spiraling vines carved deeply into the stone.

Coada led them around to the left side, into a covered walkway stretching out into a quiet courtyard surrounded by small cottages. She turned right, following the temple wall, and groaned at the sight of a young elven man with olive skin, short white hair, and ruby red eyes. He smirked viciously at the sight of her.

“Ah, the filth has come to visit us higher-ups, I see!” he sneered. “And they come in packs now, too.”

“Remuth, now is not the time,” Coada growled.

“Now, now,” he laughed as he passed her, surveying the trio. “I can always make time for you.”

Coada fumed but remained quiet, trying to avoid making a scene. Remuth smirked, eyeing Coada and then Sethie. His smile faltered as he saw Sumayya, and he hesitated, looking her up and down with confusion. Finally, he turned back to Coada.

“Anyways,” he muttered, “You’re not worth my time right now.” He stormed off.

“What was that about?” Sethie whispered.

Coada leaned in. “That was Remuth. He’s an awful person, and if I’m right, Sumayya’s half-brother.”

“Let’s hope you’re wrong,” Sumayya sighed. “I don’t want to be related to that.”

Coada nodded in agreement as she turned to continue around the back of the temple. Near the end of the walkway, Coada paused, turning to Sumayya and Sethie, gesturing to a small landing with a stairwell leading downward. “After you,” she said, looking toward Sumayya.

Sumayya nodded and descended the stairs, followed closely by Sethie and Coada. At the bottom of the stairs, the old stone doors glided open silently as Sumayya pressed through into a small burial chamber, lined with ancient tomb effigies, now severely faded by time. The three spread out to search the quiet crypt. Sumayya traced the walls down a small hallway, which looped back to the main chamber. Sethie and Coada searched the tombs carefully.

“Anything?” Sumayya asked as she circled back through the crypt. Coada and Sethie shook their heads.

Sumayya pondered for a moment before tracing her way back along the wall, looking for any sign of a hidden hatch. At the back of the crypt, she paused, noticing the slightest crack between the floor and a small section of the wall. She knelt, placing her wrist to the gap, feeling the faintest breeze. Sumayya smiled. “I’ve got something!” she called.

Sethie and Coada hurried over as Sumayya began fiddling with the wall. “I think this is some sort of door,” she muttered.

Sethie stepped beside her and began tracing the old carvings. With a click, the eye of one of the figures carved into the wall sunk in, and the stone shifted. The two women exchanged smiles before pushing the old stone door open. It groaned loudly, the centuries of neglect making their presence known as cold, stagnant air flooded the crypt.

“Well, well.” Sumayya hummed as she stepped into the narrow passage that stretched downward into darkness. Sethie and Coada stepped inside close behind, the air heavy with silence.

The old stone sloped gently downward before opening into a large room. Sumayya paused, surveying the dark space ahead, littered with rubble and massive spider webs. A heavy silence fell over the party. Suddenly, something large moved in the left corner. Sumayya took a deep breath, drawing her weapons quietly. She pressed her thumb against the main blade until her blood began to flow, dancing along the cold steel, imbuing it with her crimson rites. Darkness enveloped her, and in the blink of an eye, she was gone—now standing before the dark shape, her blades mid-swing.

An awful screech rang through the crypt as Sumayya’s blades sliced through the side of her target. Her blood now burned like flame along the blade. The dim light revealed a giant spider. She readied another strike just as the spider lunged, missing her by mere inches. A sharp pain flooded Sumayya’s back as another giant spider dropped from above, sinking its fangs into her spine. Coada charged forward, drawing her blade as a dozen younger spiders burst from the webs, beginning to swarm Sumayya.

Sethie called out, drawing her instrument and casting words of healing to Sumayya, who continued to be battered from all sides. Sumayya swung again, striking the first spider with deadly precision, but the spider retaliated, piercing her arm as she pulled away. Sumayya gasped in pain as the poison coursed through her arm and back. The second spider lunged again, but she was ready, ducking to the side of its attack.

Coada fought her way through the smaller spiders, cutting them down. Sethie followed, casting a bolt of fire from her instrument, striking the second spider. Sumayya swung again, striking true through the first spider's head, causing it to fall to the ground with a sickening splatter. The second spider charged once more, catching her leg as she jumped backward. The poison flooded her system. Coada continued cutting through the remaining spiders, and Sethie ran forward, her voice battling the poison in Sumayya's veins.

Sumayya staggered briefly before charging at the creature, piercing deep into its side as the edges of her vision began to darken. Coada lunged between them, slicing through the spider’s abdomen with brutal strength. Her blade crashed into the ground as the spider stumbled back, collapsing lifelessly. Sumayya staggered forward, her vision fading, when a wave of healing energy washed over her. Sethie hummed gently as she caught Sumayya and steadied her. Coada positioned herself protectively between them as they waited.

Silence.

The three exhaled in relief as Sumayya gathered herself. Sethie softly sang in the darkened room, chasing the poison from Sumayya's veins. “Thank you,” Sumayya whispered.

Sethie nodded, continuing her work as Coada began to explore the old room. It was far older than the rest of the crypt, with broken benches scattered around and a small altar against the far wall. There were no relics of note in sight. Coada looked down a small hall branching off to the left of the altar, where more tombs lined the walls and a tight corridor led deeper. She looked back at Sumayya and Sethie. The pair nodded in response and began to follow Coada cautiously down the corridor.

The cold stone was old and heavily worn by time. The faint echoes of carvings could be felt on the dusty walls, but their meanings had long been lost. The path stretched about 20 feet before opening into a small room with a large ornate tomb and a heavily faded effigy resting atop it. Sumayya and Coada approached the tomb cautiously.

“Maybe there’s something here,” Coada whispered.

Sumayya nodded and leaned on the tomb’s top, while Coada followed suit. They gingerly cracked the tomb open with a low grinding sound. Inside, there was only dust, fragments of clothing, and a strange pendant. Sumayya reached in, carefully retrieving the small stone piece. It was square with faded writing, now unreadable, carved along the edge. In the center, three spirals were etched deeply into the stone, meeting in the middle.

Coada and Sethie watched as Sumayya studied the pendant. After a moment, she looked up at them, shrugged, and pocketed the stone. “Shall we?” Sumayya asked, gesturing down the hallway.

“Sounds good,” Sethie smiled, beginning to walk back down the corridor and out of the crypt. Coada's eyes narrowed as she focused on Sumayya. Sumayya shrugged and followed Sethie out. Coada waited for a moment, bowed her head to the open tomb, and gently slid it shut before joining her party.

Sethie and Sumayya waited patiently outside as Coada ascended the steps.

“So, about this morning?” Sethie inquired with a smile.

Coada shook her head. “Not just yet. Follow me.”

Sumayya and Sethie followed quietly as Coada led them around the small courtyard, stopping at each cottage to read the plaques beside each door. About halfway through, she breathed a sigh of relief and knocked on a door. A long silence caused Coada's chest to tighten, but then the door clicked open, and Wora peeked out.

Sethie and Sumayya exchanged glances, now understanding. Coada began, “Sorry for the surprise visit. Do you have a moment?”

Wora smiled warmly. “For you? Always.” She swung the door open, ushering the party into the small kitchen, where they took their seats.

“So,” Wora began, “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

Sumayya leaned back into her seat, looking expectantly at Coada, while Sethie laughed. “I think we’re all eager to know at this point.”

Coada placed her elbows on the table, leaning forward with somber intensity. “I had a vision last night. From Arcea.”

Wora snorted. “You’re joking. No one has received direct communication from the gods in over a thousand years.”

Coada’s gaze darkened. “I’m well aware,” she replied.

Wora’s smile faded.

“It’s war. It’s coming to Ysora. Dark and twisted creatures fighting against our holy warriors,” Coada continued.

“How soon?” Sumayya asked.

“Not sure, but it felt urgent.”

“I need to get my family out then,” Sethie added.

Coada nodded. “We’ll go there after, make sure they get out safely.”

“Also,” Coada added, “There was a moon. Lauthrious had a moon.”

“A moon?” Sethie snorted. Sumayya’s brows raised.

“You need to tell Umeran,” Wora said firmly.

Coada shook her head. “I don’t know. It’s not something I should—”

Wora cut in. “Coada, this is huge. You need to speak to the high priest.”

“Well, why me?” Coada growled. “Look at me. I’m a lower priestess of the church and a yuan-ti. Why would they even believe me?”

“All I see is one of Arcea’s most loyal servants, who has fought to serve her against all odds and was rewarded for her dedication by becoming her chosen messenger.” Wora smiled.

Coada wrinkled her nose, mocking her. “You know I’m telling the truth,” Wora continued.

“I just don’t want that. I don’t want to be known as anything,” Coada argued.

“Not your choice to make.” Wora barked.

“I’ll think about it, okay?”

“Deal.” Wora smiled, then looked to Sumayya and Sethie. “While I have you, I have some tickets to the Winter Tournaments. Would you two like to join me?”

Sethie and Sumayya exchanged confused looks. “Oh, don’t worry about Coada. I know when she needs to blow off steam. I’ll see if I can pull some strings to get her in the novice fight, and we can watch!” Wora winked.

Sethie smiled. “That would be lovely. Thank you!”

Sumayya nodded in agreement.

“That’s settled, then! I’ll meet you at the arena tomorrow! Coada knows the time and place!”

Coada smirked. “I look forward to it.”

Wora laughed. “Oh, I know you do,” she jested. “Now, I do need to ask that you excuse me—I do have a job after all.”

Coada smiled and stood, pulling Wora into a tight hug. Wora returned in kind, pulling Sumayya and Sethie into the embrace as well. They said their goodbyes and returned to the city streets.

“Let’s go let your family know as soon as possible,” Coada urged as they stepped into the bustling streets. Sethie nodded.

“You all go ahead,” Sumayya responded. “I need to drop this off.”

Coada and Sethie nodded, Sumayya as she continued south into the merchant district. She passed the Iron Wall, turning west toward the docks.

“You do quick work,” a familiar breathy voice called from an alley as she passed.

Sumayya stopped, looking disinterestedly down the alley. “Fairs, wasn’t it?”

“The very same.” Fairs stepped out of the alley, her skin a rich chestnut with short dark hair, brown eyes, and sharp elven features.

“Neat trick,” Sumayya responded flatly.

“Hm,” Fairs smiled. “Any luck with your little fetch quest?”

Sumayya pulled the pendant from her pouch and tossed it to Fairs, who began inspecting it closely. “I must say,” Fairs said after a moment, “You actually didn’t disappoint. This is pre-coalescence. It’ll fetch a nice price.”

Fairs pocketed the pendant and tossed a small pouch into Sumayya’s hands. “Your fee,” she mumbled, turning back down the alley behind a small shop. Sumayya pocketed the pouch and waited a moment before turning to rejoin her party.

Sethie hurried toward her home with Coada close behind, cutting through the bustling crowds and tight streets into the North Corner. Coada followed closely, glancing around as they passed. Soon, they arrived at Orianna’s. Sethie paused at the door, taking a deep breath before entering.

The storefront was empty. Sethie hesitated, a brief panic flashing behind her eyes, until she heard a familiar voice from upstairs, followed by Orianna’s laugh. “Mom?” She called.

“Oh, welcome back,” Orianna called from above. “Come on up, Sethie.”

Sethie looked at Coada briefly, who shrugged in confusion. Sethie laughed. “Come on, looks like we have someone for you to meet. You guys are going to love each other.” she whispered with a tinge of sarcasm.

Pre-Session - Gnash Strangletooth

A frantic knock jolted Gnash from his reading. The small halfling took a long puff from his cigar as he leaned back in his chair. “Yes?” he called, his voice sharp and commanding.

The door creaked open, and a young orcish man peeked inside. “Sir, you asked if there were any more disappearances in Hilltop.”

“I did,” Gnash replied, exhaling a cloud of tobacco.

“Well, there’s been another—last night. Hampson apparently never made it home from his shift at the mill. His daughter heard from him this morning.”

Gnash leaned back, letting out a long sigh. “Take a group tonight and trace his steps.” He leaned forward, tapping the ashes from his cigar. “And Toran, do not split up. Whoever or whatever this is seems to travel in pairs.”

“Yes, sir. We’ll head out at dusk.” Toran nodded and closed the door softly behind him.

Gnash took a long drag from his cigar, then opened a small folder. It contained a map of Hilltop, on which he marked the route from Hampson’s home to the mill. “Sixth one this month,” he muttered, gesturing to the small rat cleaning itself at the edge of his desk. “All in a smaller area of Hilltop, too. There must be a pattern.”

He tapped his pen on the desk, his gaze drifting across the map. His eyes widened when he reached a small street corner on the edge of North Town and Hilltop. “Come on, Raphael,” he called. The rat obediently scampered up his arm and perched on his shoulder. “We have to see someone before the daylight’s gone.”

Orianna let out a long sigh as she entered her quiet shop, the door clicking softly behind her. “What am I supposed to do about this?” she muttered to herself.

The soft jingle of the doorbell sounded again. “We’re closed!” she called, turning toward the storefront.

“Even for a friend?” came the playful voice of Gnash from the doorway.

Orianna smiled faintly, lowering her head. “Now’s not the best time, Gnash.”

He smiled warmly and let the door snap shut behind him as he entered. “This is important.” He paused, his face shifting with a hint of concern. “Are the girls out?”

Orianna chuckled and placed her head in her hands. “Yeah, I suppose.”

Gnash climbed onto a stool beside her, Raphael leaping to the countertop. “That bad?” he asked.

“They got themselves into trouble, pickpocketing in the city center. I just know it’s them.”

Gnash placed a hand on her shoulder.

“One of them was arrested. I don’t know which one, and the other… she isn’t home yet.” Orianna sighed heavily. “I need to figure this out.”

Gnash leaned back, thinking for a moment. “Do you still speak with Arabella?”

“From time to time,” Orianna replied, her eyes narrowing. “Why?”

“I know of a caravan heading south, passing through Riverside Town. They leave this evening.” Gnash hesitated before adding, “I could arrange travel with them, so at least one of them gets out of town while we sort this out.”

“Orianna, you really shouldn’t—”

“And I’ve got an idea for the other one.” Gnash interrupted, hopping off the stool and scribbling something on a scrap of paper. “Here.” He handed her the note along with a small pouch of gold.

“Ori—”

“Orianna,” Gnash continued. “You do so much for this community. Let me help, at least a little.”

Orianna hesitated, then relented, taking the pouch from his hand.

“I’ll send a message ahead, but have her give this to the merchant at Ironhaus Weaponry on Ruther Street in Iron Wall. They’re leaving after dusk, so get her there before then. And don’t forget to send for Arabella—I’m sure she’d love to meet your daughter.”

Orianna smiled softly and mouthed, “Thank you.”

Gnash nodded and headed toward the door. “One more thing. There’ve been a series of disappearances in Hilltop. Try to stay clear of there at night, at least until I can figure this out.”

She nodded, and as he stepped into the crisp air, he stopped for a moment outside her door. He scribbled another note and rolled it into a small scroll. “Take this to Karemis at Ironhaus,” he whispered, handing it to Raphael. The rat grabbed the scroll in his mouth and scurried away.

Gnash let out a long sigh, lighting a fresh cigar as he headed home. Passing the narrow alley beside Orianna’s, he caught a glimpse of pink hair ducking behind some crates. He smiled, shaking his head as he continued home.

The next morning, a gentle knock interrupted Gnash’s quiet moments at his desk. “Come in!” he called.

The door opened slowly, and an ashen-colored tabaxi with pumpkin eyes stepped inside. “Have a minute?” she asked.

Gnash nodded, and the tabaxi entered, quietly closing the door behind her.

“Toran went out last night with some of the guys,” she began. “Rayhan went with him…”

Gnash nodded. “They wanted to investigate the disappearances.”

“Well, they didn’t come home,” her voice cracked.

Gnash’s eyes widened. “They went as a group. The disappearances have always been individuals. I’m sure they’ll be back soon.”

She lowered her gaze, turning toward the fireplace.

“Story?” he prompted.

“What?” she responded.

“Would you like to check it out with me?”

Story nodded, her eyes still worried. “I’m scared.”

Gnash grabbed his coat and took her hand. “Let’s go, then,” he said with a reassuring smile.

The streets were quiet as a bitter chill swept through the alleys climbing up the mountainside. Gnash and Story moved through the sharp streets, stopping in every alley they passed to search for signs of the group that had set out the night before. Gnash paused frequently to ask passersby if they had seen anything, but no one had. As the hours stretched on, their tension grew.

Finally, near the center of the area where the disappearances had been occurring, Gnash stepped into a narrow alley, with Story close behind. He scanned the scene for a few moments, finishing the last of his cigar before stamping out the ember against the wall. He paused when he noticed a small splatter of blood on the wall.

Gnash’s chest tightened as he followed the blood trail to a nearby sewer grate. He gave a nod to Raphael, and the rat scurried off his shoulder, disappearing into the grate. A moment later, Raphael returned with a small handkerchief in his mouth. Gnash took it carefully as Raphael hopped back onto his shoulder.

“Gods,” Story gasped, leaning over his shoulder.

“That’s Toran’s,” Gnash muttered, his eyes narrowing. “I want you to head home. I’ll spread the word that no one should go out at night until we figure out what this is.”

He turned to Story, placing the cloth gently in her hand. “I’m sorry. I’ll put out a bounty.”

Story leaned in, hugging him tightly as tears welled up in her eyes. “Thank you… I’ll spread the word,” her voice trembled.

Gnash squeezed her tight before sending her on her way. He turned back to the grate, then made for the exit of the alley.

“One last thing,” he muttered as he stepped into the street. “We need to pay an old acquaintance a visit.”

It was a long walk from Hilltop to the Old Town district. Gnash rubbed his hands together for warmth as the sun dipped below the horizon. The Old Town was older, better maintained than Hilltop, and home to many city officials and workers. Gnash had only been here a few times, but he knew the winding streets well. Soon, he stood before the steps of a small flat just off the town center, the darkened windows signaling that no one was home yet.

Gnash smiled as he slipped into a nearby alley, settling behind a stack of crates. As Raphael crawled into his lap, Gnash closed his eyes, focusing all his thoughts into the rat’s small form. ‘Time to get to work,’ he whispered, feeling the world shift around him, his eyes rolling back into darkness.

When his eyes opened again, he was within Raphael’s mind. He scurried across the quiet street, easily finding a gap in the back wall of the flat. Gnash slipped inside and climbed an old display shelf to hide in the corner. “Now we wait,” he thought to himself, fixing his gaze on the door.

Minutes passed, and just before the hour mark, the door burst open. A bright red tiefling with tightly trimmed hair and poorly worn city robes stumbled inside, blubbering a song. Gnash rolled his eyes.

“That’s not very becoming of the ‘high and mighty Azraak,’ who’s too good for his own people,” Gnash projected his voice through Raphael.

Azraak jumped, slamming into the wall beside him. “Wh-who said that?” he slurred.

Gnash chuckled. “Your conscience, jackass.”

Azraak laughed. “If this is a prank, it’s not very funny,” he hiccupped.

“Your daughter is in trouble, Azraak,” Gnash said with theatrical seriousness. “If you don’t help her, so too will you be.”

“Oh yeah?”

“Yes! She has been arrested and needs your help.” Gnash continued.

“And why is that my problem?” Azraak sneered as he lifted a flask to his lips.

Gnash hesitated in anger. “Well… Think of your reputation! How will you get ahead with a criminal for a child?”

“Fine, conscience, I’ll do something. Just leave me alone.” He grumbled.

“Good, because if you do not, I will end you.” Gnash growled.

Azraak shuttered before taking another swig of his flask and stumbling upstairs.

“Idiot.” Gnash breathed as his vision returned. He shuddered at the rush of cold that had permeated his body while he waited. He stood and lit another cigar as he stepped into the street. Moments later Raphael scurried back across the street and onto Gnash’s shoulder.

“Come on,” Gnash smiled, “Let’s go home.”

Session 5 Part 2 - The Warning

As Sumayya navigated the quieting streets, she spun the ring around her finger, reflecting on the events that had unfolded over the past few weeks. The warmth of the small inn greeted her as she entered, finding the tables now mostly full with workers drinking and dining. Loanna gave her a brief nod as she passed by. Sumayya scanned the room before continuing up the stairs. The quiet room beckoned her, and she slumped onto the bed as the door clicked shut. Lazily, she reached beneath the bed frame and pulled out the package.

It was a small bundle containing basic worker's clothing, identification papers for Sarah Leonna from Riversidetown, a work order for ship delivery in Kings Run, scheduled three days before Lauthrian’s Night, and a small sum of gold. She rolled over onto her back. I still have some time, she thought. Might as well get some work while I wait. With a sigh, she sat up and returned downstairs.

Loanna and Jona bustled between tables and the bar as patrons came and went throughout the evening. Sumayya took a seat in a corner of the bar and watched them for a few minutes before Loanna approached her.

“Need anything?” she asked with a hurried smile.

“I was wondering if you knew anywhere I could pick up an extra job or two,” Sumayya leaned in, lowering her voice. “Under the table, if needed.”

Loanna’s eyes narrowed. “If you’re sure. Head to the Old Stone Tavern, it backs up to our inn on the neighboring street. Ask them for a pint of the High King’s Ale.” She slipped a note into Sumayya’s hand. “Tell them you’ll take the blade.” she whispered.

Sumayya nodded, lingering for a few moments as Loanna returned to her work. She left gold on the counter before heading toward the Old Stone Tavern. The tavern was a large, open space, now bustling with dockworkers and merchants. Sumayya weaved through the crowd, finding a seat at the end of the bar. The dwarven barkeep, a broad man with a face weathered by time, approached.

“Get ya something?” he asked in a low, grumbling voice.

Sumayya leaned casually onto the bar. “How about a pint of the High King’s Ale?” she said quietly.

His eyes narrowed as he scanned her. “All out,” he responded.

“Well, then I guess I’ll take the blade,” she said, her eyes darkening.

He appraised her for a moment. “Hjulmond’s the name.”

She nodded but did not offer her own.

“Go into the back,” he nodded toward the kitchen. “Ask for Rens.”

Sumayya stood, her gaze still locked on his as she slid a gold coin across the counter before making her way toward the kitchen. The chefs paid her no mind as a halfling man stepped out from the pantry.

“Rens?” she asked. He nodded curtly, turning back into the pantry. As she entered, he closed the door and kicked a gear behind the left shelf. The back wall slid away, revealing a narrow staircase upwards. Sumayya glanced back at the man, who leaned casually against the door, then nodded and began climbing the stairs.

The room at the top was small, the left wall lined with tools, weapons, scrolls, and potions, while the right wall was piled high with paperwork and boxes. In the center of the room sat a table, around which three figures lounged.

“Well, aren't you just the prettiest little thing? A high-elf gracing my quarters? To what do I owe the displeasure?” the central figure growled, her voice low and raspy with age. She stood, her orcish skin darkened by candlelight.

“I believe we've gotten off on the wrong foot,” Sumayya responded with cold certainty. “I’m not from here, you see, so hold no such judgment. I’m just looking for work.”

The woman assessed Sumayya before looking down at her allies, a thin, hooded figure and a larger man with powder blue skin. The man stood and walked over to Sumayya, leaning down over her. He was easily a foot taller, his muscles rippling, his algae-green hair pulled neatly back behind his ears. Sumayya met his gaze with unwavering confidence. He leaned in closer, eyes locked on hers. She didn't flinch. With a smirk, he stood up straight.

“I think we can give you a job,” he said.

The hooded figure slowly turned to face Sumayya, revealing their face. Sumayya’s eyes widened but she held firm. Their eyes had a faint greenish glow, and their skin seemed to shift impossibly, alternating between smoky charcoal and snowy white. They sat casually, waiting for a reaction from Sumayya, but she only stared back with the same confidence she had shown the Triton.

“I suppose she will do,” the figure finally spoke, their voice a melodic, breathy whisper.

The Triton let out a small chuckle. “She approves,” he said, turning to grab a scroll before handing it to Sumayya. “Consider this an interview; she’ll be keeping a close eye on you.” He nodded toward the hooded figure, who responded with a short nod.

“Don’t disappoint us,” the orc woman bellowed, waving Sumayya away.

Sumayya nodded, returning down the stairs. She gave a quiet nod to Rens and Hjullmond before stepping out into the brisk night. When she returned to the inn, it was quieter than before. Loanna was still bustling about, cleaning up from a fruitful evening. Sumayya gave her a nod as she passed, and Loanna responded with a warm smile. Sumayya threw herself onto her bed as the door swung shut, slowly opening the scroll.

Relic Recovery

Recover and deliver any relics from the age before within the Old Town Abbey Crypts. It is believed they have not been fully explored, so take what you can before that happens.

Reward: 450gp

Sumayya smirked. Easy enough, she thought, tossing the scroll aside and blowing out her candle to rest.

“I don’t think we should do something like that,” Coada argued. “You’re asking me to steal from the church.”

“Well, technically, it’s not theirs if it’s from a time before,” Sethie pointed out.

“And,” Sumayya added, stressing her point, “It’s not even something they’re looking for. It’s not anything they’d miss.”

Coada hesitated. “How’d you even get this job in the first place?”

“I asked the right people,” Sumayya responded coldly.

Coada met her gaze, clenching her jaw. “Fine,” she relented. “But we’re going in on my terms.”

Sumayya softened slightly, a faint smile curling her lips. “I can agree to that.”

“It's settled then,” Sethie interjected, “Let’s get this research started now!”

Coada and Sumayya nodded, and the group continued through the Ten Spires and into the healing house. The entry was slate gray, adorned with cerulean banners that hung along the walls. A gentle fountain bubbled in the center of the room, overflowing into small groves that spiraled across the stone floor. The space was cool and quiet as they waited. After a moment, a young elven woman stepped out from the left hallway. She wore neatly pressed blue and gray robes, tied tightly back, with her dark hair pulled into a low bun beneath a matching nurse’s cap—the uniform of the healing church.

She approached quietly, nodding to them with a motherly smile. “Welcome,” she began in a quiet, whispered voice. “How can I assist you today?”

“We’re doing research on the Wasting and would like access to your records,” Coada responded with authority.

The woman surveyed them for a moment, her eyes lingering on Coada’s Arcean insignias. “Of course,” she said, smiling. “Follow me.” She turned and led them down the left hallway, passing wards with various patients and priests and priestesses bustling about. Towards the end of the hall, she turned right, guiding them up a small staircase into a records room. At the entrance sat an ancient dwarven man, who nodded as they entered.

“Help ya?” he asked.

“Yes,” the woman began, cutting Coada off. “House Arcea is conducting research on the Wasting and will need access to our records. Please make sure they get what they need.”

The man nodded, giving the party a reassuring wink before the woman turned and left, heading back down the stairs.

“Alright… Laia!” he called.

“Yes?” A small voice chirped from behind the shelves. A young human woman with bright green eyes and wavy golden hair peeked out.

“See to these folks. Get them the records they need.”

Laia nodded and weaved around the counter. “If you’ll please,” she said with a low bow, her hand extended toward a small table to the right of the desk.

Coada nodded to Laia as the trio took seats around the small table. “We’re looking into the Wasting,” Coada commanded.

“Certainly, one moment,” Laia responded politely, stepping away. After a few moments, she returned with a cart full of documents. Coada nodded in thanks.

“Thank you,” Sethie said as she began unloading the documents.

Laia nodded and took a seat nearby as the party began sifting through years of records: patient documents, death ledgers, research notes, and witness accounts. Sumayya took charge, sorting the documents chronologically, while Coada and Sethie pulled aside the research notes.

“Laia,” Coada called softly, “Did an older couple come in a few weeks ago, Martin and Luella? She was afflicted.”

Laia paused to think before hopping to her feet and hurrying behind one of the shelves. After a moment, she returned with a small file. “They arrived 13 days ago,” she began. “Luella is in our Wasting ward currently.”

Coada nodded. “I’d like to see her.”

“Certainly. Follow me.”

Coada turned to Sethie and Sumayya. “I’ll be back.”

“We’ve got this handled,” Sumayya assured, her face buried in notes. “Do what you need.”

Sethie nodded from behind an old book. Coada turned to Laia, who waited expectantly in the stairwell, and followed her down. Laia led them back into the main hall, passing various wards and offices before turning into a small room. Eight patients lay sleeping, with two priestesses attending to them. Coada caught sight of Luella, looking frailer than before, asleep in her bunk. Across from her, a patient, an elven woman, mumbled a string of pained gibberish. Laia gave a quiet nod to the priestesses, then stepped aside, gesturing for Coada to enter.

Coada cautiously approached Luella’s bunk. The woman’s face was sunken and pale, dark circles framed her eyes, and her wrinkled skin was noticeably frail.

Coada lowered her head, gently placing her hand on Luella’s. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered, gazing at the sleeping woman. She hesitated for a moment before leaning in, trying to sense any arcane energy within her, any force tied to this sickness.

A sudden dizziness swept over Coada, and she felt vertigo pulling her forward. The edges of her vision darkened, and a coldness crept along her neck. She could feel herself falling, but just as quickly, a celestial force flooded through her, pulling her back to the present. Her breath quickened. No one seemed to have noticed. She turned back to Luella and tried again to probe for energy, but instead, she felt something celestial holding her back.

Coada stood abruptly, gesturing to Laia with a nod as she passed. Laia stood and followed her back through the building to her allies. They looked up from their notes as Coada entered, visibly paler than before. Sumayya raised a brow, setting aside the stack of papers as she turned to Coada.

“Coada?” Sethie asked, concern in her voice.

Coada slumped into her chair, staring blankly ahead with restrained panic. Laia sat beside her, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. “I think…” Coada began shakily, “I think I did something very bad.”

They sat in silence, waiting for Coada to continue as she gathered her thoughts.

“I tried to look at Luella, to really look at her,” Coada said, looking down at her hands. “I tried to use my magic to see into the sickness.”

“And how much did you lose?” Laia asked curtly.

Sumayya placed her hand on some notes beside her and looked at Coada with a hard gaze. “While not communicable,” she said, “Doing that has triggered the Wasting in some.”

Coada paled. “I felt myself being pulled in, losing myself. But I was pulled back by some celestial force. I think…” She hesitated, meeting her companions’ eyes. “I think Arcea pulled me back out.”

Sumayya leaned back quietly, while Sethie nodded at her with warm reassurance. “Give thanks to your patron,” Laia whispered. “There are many who haven’t been so fortunate.”

Coada nodded, pushing the notes aimlessly around the table.

“I think we’ve gotten enough information for now,” Sethie said, nudging Sumayya as she stood. “Thank you again for your time.”

She walked over to Coada and gently took her hand. Coada looked up, meeting Sethie’s calm smile. “Let’s get some fresh air,” Sethie whispered softly.

Coada nodded. Laia stood alongside her, giving them each a quiet nod and lingering her gaze on Coada before returning to her work. Sethie linked her arm through Coada’s and led her out into the city, with Sumayya following close behind. The sharp winter air greeted them with a bitter bite, snapping Coada out of her stupor.

“Let’s get some dinner,” Sethie said as they stepped from the Spires into the bustling city street. Sumayya and Coada nodded, and Sethie led the pair back into the North Corner to a small inn, heavily weathered and dusted by the northern city streets. The three took seats along the back wall at a darkened table.

“Sethie!” a man called as he weaved through the patrons. His russet-colored skin was carved like stone, and his earthen brown eyes held a fatherly kindness. “Haven’t seen you in a while! How’ve you been?”

“Very good!” Sethie beamed. “Mac, this is Sumayya and Coada. And this is Mac. We’ve come here for a long time.”

Mac smiled, nodding to each of them. “I’ve known this one since she was crawling around,” he laughed. “If you need anything or are ready to order, just give me a holler.”

“Can we get a round of ale, house’s fine?” Sumayya requested.

“And let’s do a chef’s platter to share, so we can get a bit of everything,” Sethie added. Mac nodded and disappeared, returning shortly with a round of ales and a pitcher.

Sethie nodded in thanks as Coada inhaled the first ale, taking a long breath before refilling her pint. “So,” she began, her familiar steadiness returning to her voice. “What did you learn?”

“Well,” Sethie started, “The first recorded case of this in the city was 168 years ago—a young elven nobleman. Since then, the frequency has been growing.”

“It’s hard to know much, though, because those records were limited to patients who attended the healing house,” Sumayya added.

“But we see there’s no clear pattern to who gets it. It seems almost like luck of the draw,” Sethie continued.

Sumayya nodded. “We’ll need to research further. I’m sure you have a TomeKeepers library here; they’ll have much more thorough records.”

Coada leaned back in her seat. “We do. In the Shelves. They’re an annex of the university.”

“We should go there next,” Sumayya concluded. Sethie nodded as a large platter was placed on their table. An assortment of warm shredded meats, vegetables, and dried fruits filled their senses. Coada’s mouth began to water. Sethie pulled off a piece of bread, using it to scoop the meat. “Dive in!” she said with a smile. Coada and Sumayya leaned in, joining Sethie in a quiet, hearty meal.

“I don’t want to press,” Sumayya began as they stepped out into the night, “But I’d like to finish that job tomorrow. Could we gain access to those Crypts?”

Coada looked toward the castle, peeking over the rooftops. “Sure. Let’s meet at the town center tomorrow, around the main fountain. We’ll go first thing in the morning.” She sighed.

“Thank you,” Sumayya smiled softly. “Rest well.”

“You as well.”

“Travel safe!” Sethie smiled toward Sumayya. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

Sumayya parted ways, traveling back through the city toward the Harbingers Rest Inn. Sethie and Coada continued together, parting ways at Orianna’s. Coada stood at the crossroad, looking down the main path toward the Spires, then towards the smaller alley leading to the orphanage. She sighed, turning down the alley and finding herself standing at the door.

She quietly opened the old door, peeking inside. A comfortable silence greeted her. From the study, she could see Ovar seated on the couch, reading a book by the crackling fire. She closed the door quietly as she slid into the study and plopped down next to him. He looked up with brief surprise, mouth open to speak, but she dropped her head onto his shoulder. He nodded gently before returning to his book as Coada drifted off to sleep.

At first, she could smell it: iron and smoke, blood and viscera. Then, like an approaching storm, the sounds of clashing blades and the cries of war flooded her mind. Coada’s eyes snapped open as she found herself atop a hill. She looked around, trying to gather her bearings. The sky was a sickly, phthalo green. Behind her the city of Ysora spread south and west towards a darkened horizon, and before her stretched a vast battlefield, two sides locked in combat, neither able to overtake the other—pure, uncontrolled slaughter. One side wore silver armor adorned with hints of red and gold, symbols of Arcea emblazoned on their shields and paldrons. In the thickest onslaught, Captain Alfera stood, locked in combat, calling out commands to her army. Creatures of twisted darkness—beings that had once been man—monsters of shadow, clad in darkened steel continued to pour forward. Beyond them stood a figure in dark armor silently watching the battle and haloed by a massive scarlet planet glowing with a low pulse.

Coada’s chest tightened. Is that a moon? she thought to herself. She had heard of other planets having moons, but she never imagined one could look so... formidable. The moon seemed to hum beneath the thunderous noise of the war, and from the horizon, black tendrils of clouds stretched forward like tentacles, reaching out towards the city. She had to act—it was her duty as a warrior of the Holy Blade. But each movement felt like wading through mud. The world began to spin, and her body grew heavy. She reached for her weapon and found nothing. Panic surged as she looked down and saw only common clothing. What happened to my armor? she wondered. She pushed forward again, but once more, she was stopped. The weight of the world seemed to press upon her as she called out in a voice of holy command, “Move!”

And move she did—further and heavier—until she was frozen again. Maybe I need a shock, a jolt, to move forward, she thought. She placed her hand on her side and released a blast of necrotic energy, but nothing happened. The spell dissipated uselessly. Defeated, she sank to the ground, watching helplessly as the war raged before her eyes. Then, a strange sensation washed over her: the feeling of being watched with unnerving intensity. The sensation drew her gaze back to the eastern horizon, but it wasn’t a soldier observing her, nor the dark figure in the distance. Her chest twisted as she looked to the sky. It was the moon.

Session 5 Part 1 - Mounting Threats

The next day greeted the trio with a cold harshness as snow blanketed the city, the dark skies looming over the streets. Sethie led the group through Hilltop into the Steepes to survey the bay. As Wora had said, the bay was littered with ships bearing the dark green banner of the Vaerean Armada. The darkened wooden hulls and gray sails almost disappeared against the cloudy backdrop, with faint glints of iron and steel scattered across their decks.

“The Sea Dogs,” Sumayya whispered.

Coada squinted, counting the ships. “They easily outnumber us,” she hesitated, “four to one, at least.”

“Plus,” Sumayya added, pointing to the ship decks, “They have firepower.”

Sethie and Coada watched the bay in silence, awed by the sight of crewmen scurrying across the ships. Cannonry and guns were foreign to this nation. Sethie flushed with concern, while Coada calmly wrapped her tail around hers.

“We need to get our families out of here,” Coada urged. “Or at least have them ready to leave. I don’t like this one bit.”

Sethie nodded in agreement, leaning into Coada. Sumayya quietly surveyed the ships, counting each one and measuring their distance from the city. They were right to be concerned; this could easily be a show of force. If this was a proposal, saying no would not likely be the safest answer.

The trio descended the Steepes in silence, with Sumayya keeping her attention on the bay as it sank below the rooftops. “So,” Sethie began, cutting through the tension, “Had some time to think about your dad yet?”

Sumayya paused, placing her hand on her chin in thought, trying to recall what her mother had described. “He was tall, elven in appearance, with light olive skin,” she hesitated, “I think she said he had sharp features. His eyes were red, and his hair was white like mine.”

Sethie and Coada exchanged glances, pondering the description. A flash of recognition pierced Coada’s mind as she let out a long, frustrated groan.

“What?” Sumayya asked, annoyed.

“I think I might know your father,” Coada murmured. “Oh, and if I’m right, you have a brother.”

Sethie and Sumayya gasped.

Coada looked toward Kings Run. “Brosvis Moltenlash.”

“The new High Treasurer?” Sethie blurted.

“The very same,” Coada continued, irritation creeping into her voice.

“Hm.” Sumayya pondered for a moment before shaking her head. “We’ll just have to see,” she concluded, smiling softly toward the pair.

Sethie nodded, looping her arms through Sumayya’s. “For now, let’s focus on what we can,” she whispered reassuringly.

Sumayya nodded as Sethie led the trio back through Hilltop to her home.

The small shop door stood open in the wintery streets. As they approached, the warmth of the storefront invited them in. Sethie and Coada breathed a sigh of relief as they crossed the threshold. Orianna stood behind the counter, fiddling with potion labels. She looked up with a warm smile as they entered. Sumayya lingered in the doorway for a moment, uneasy, as she scanned the streets. A hooded figure caught her eye as they stood in the shadows of an alley across the street. She hesitated before turning back inside.

“I’ll be right back,” she called, waving toward Sethie and Coada as she casually made her way toward the alley, watching the figure disappear down it.

Sumayya surveyed the street for prying eyes before she slipped into the tight pathway. The figure stood towards the back wall and lowered her hood as Sumayya approached, revealing a cropped black bob that fell straight along her olive skin. Her brown eyes were muted by the shadows.

“Demaris?” Sumayya whispered.

“Anya,” Demaris responded, tapping her knuckles against the stone wall. “I hear you’re running around town with a cleric of the Ten Spires.”

Sumayya straightened her shoulders. “Yes, she’s been an excellent asset.”

“You should be proud,” Demaris continued, tracing lines into the dusty wall. “Many of us spend years earning the trust of locals, working tirelessly to be fully accepted as one of them.”

“I’m not one of many, I suppose.”

Demaris stopped, looking at Sumayya with a vicious smile. “No, you are not, sister. No, you are not.”

“Did you come just to congratulate me, or do you have business?” Sumayya demanded.

Demaris rolled her eyes and approached with familiar grace. “Relax. I come bearing gifts. A promotion!”

“Is that so?” Sumayya raised an eyebrow.

Demaris plopped a small pouch into her hand. “Keep up your work with the cleric, and we’ll keep up our work with the festival.”

Demaris turned to leave, raising her hood. “Wait!” Sumayya called.

Demaris stopped and turned, leaning against the wall impatiently. “What do we know about the Vaereans and their presence here?” Sumayya asked.

Demaris straightened. “Above my paygrade. If we need to know, we will. I wouldn’t worry about them.” She turned again, waving goodbye as she slipped deeper into the alley.

Sumayya waited a moment before opening the pouch. A small sum of gold gleamed inside, along with a simple ring. Her breath quickened as she inspected the ring— a band of loyalty. Whatever was about to happen must be serious. She sighed, pocketing the gold and slipping the ring on before returning to Orianna’s.

“Ah, there you are!” Coada chimed as Sumayya walked through the door.

Sumayya watched as Sethie and Orianna returned to the front, concern etched on Orianna’s face as Sethie joined Coada’s side. “Just be ready,” Sethie repeated to Orianna, who gave her a gentle nod.

“We were just getting ready to stop by the orphanage, if you care to join us,” Coada said, eyeing the new ring on Sumayya’s hand.

“Sounds like a plan,” Sumayya replied sharply, nodding goodbye to Orianna as the group stepped back out into the snowy streets.

It wasn’t long before they arrived at the orphanage. From the window, Coada could see the children reading in the study, Ovar sitting with Vitrene and Setil as they worked. She lingered on the street, waiting to catch his eye. After a few moments, Ovar looked up from the children, raising his brow.

Coada gestured for him to step outside as she slipped behind the door. He stood and quietly joined them on the porch.

“Thank you,” Coada began. “I didn’t want to disturb their studies.”

“It’s no problem,” he said, leaning against the wall with gentle concern. “Is everything alright?”

Coada hesitated. “I need you to get the kids ready to leave.”

Ovar’s eyes widened slightly.

“Not immediately,” Coada continued, her voice tinged with urgency. “With the Vaerean Armada at our doorstep, and such an important festival coming, I’m worried something bad will happen.”

Ovar nodded. “Of course, I’ll make sure we’re safe, and if we need to leave, I’ll be ready.”

“I know this is sudden, but I just want to make sure you’re safe,” Coada said, her voice quickening, “I’ll figure out where we can send you and make arrangements—”

“Hey,” Ovar interrupted, placing his hand on her shoulder. “I’ve got it handled. We can go to my family in Faltaren. Don’t worry.”

She smiled and straightened up. “Thank you,” she mouthed before turning back to join her companions. Ovar nodded and waved goodbye before returning to the children.

“I need to stop by my dorm,” Coada said sternly as they continued down the street. “It’s time I make my return known to my superiors.”

Sumayya nodded.

“We’ll travel ahead and do some shopping. Meet you by Iron Wall?” Sethie asked.

Coada nodded, leaving the two as they passed the Ten Spires. She hesitated, glancing at the large corner of the city she had called home for so long. The grandiose chapels scattered throughout. She sighed as she continued, weaving through the central courtyard and following the alleys to House Arcea. It was one of the larger chapels, standing tall and gleaming even in the darkened sky. White stone adorned with ruby reds and plated golds decorated the structure. The grand doors, adorned with a depiction of Arceous herself in full regalia, stood open. A few patrons—mostly military or guards, but some civilians—were coming and going. Coada nodded to her fellow priests and priestesses as she slipped through the back halls.

Her movements relaxed as she entered the dorms and saw Retha sitting at a far desk, lost in her work. Retha looked up, her eyes widening before quickly glancing back down at her papers.

“You made good time,” she called to Coada with stifled excitement, her stern face hiding a slight smile.

“Well,” Coada replied, plopping into the chair across from her. “I had to make sure you were keeping everything in order.”

Retha looked up as Coada smirked playfully. “I’m glad to have you back,” Retha said warmly, her voice taking on a motherly tone as she smiled.

They sat together in comfortable silence for a moment.

“I wanted to see if I could request some new equipment,” Coada began. “Something a little sturdier.”

“Is that so?” Retha’s brow raised. “Expecting trouble?”

Coada leaned forward with a sigh. “No, I just want to be safer. If this trip taught me anything, it’s that I need to be better prepared for anything that may happen.”

Retha nodded. “I’ll see what I can do. Give the armorer a few days.”

Coada nodded. “I’d like a glaive too.”

Retha looked up, locking eyes with Coada. “I’ll see what I can do,” she affirmed.

“Thank you,” Coada replied, standing and stretching. “It was nice to see you again.”

Retha smiled warmly. “You too. Don’t be a stranger, okay?”

Coada nodded and continued out of the dorms. As she reentered the main chapel, a familiar figure passed by. Coada’s eyes widened as the figure paused, bowing slightly.

“Coada,” Alfera began, “Always a pleasure.”

“Captain!” Coada smiled. “It’s a pleasure to see you. May I walk with you?”

Alfera nodded and continued toward the chapel exit as Coada joined her in stride. Alfera Leothran, Captain of the Lauthrian Army, carried herself with dignified strength. Her dark skin almost glowed against the blues and blacks of her uniform. Her hair was pulled into a tight low bun, and her golden eyes glinted in the light. She could rival Arcea herself in both beauty and fierceness.

“So,” Alfera spoke, pulling Coada from her thoughts. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

Coada hesitated. “I’m not sure if you knew, but I was away for some time and just returned. I heard about everything that had happened and wanted to inquire about Brosvis’ new position and what happened to our previous treasurer.”

“I hadn’t heard,” Alfera replied with a quick glance. “For starters, welcome back. I trust your travels were fruitful. As for that situation, not much is known yet. Our High Mage Ruen Fioras has been investigating it alongside my people, and so far, it looks like he snapped.”

“Do you think it could be the Wasting?” Coada asked.

“Could be,” Alfera pondered as they approached Torch Side. “We don’t know yet.”

As they arrived at the gate, Alfera bowed her head. “If you’ll excuse me.”

Coada bowed. “Thank you for your time.”

Alfera nodded as she passed through the small gate into the massive complex.

Coada lingered for a moment before beginning the trek south to meet Sethie and Sumayya.

The early afternoon brought scattered sunshine as Sumayya and Sethie took seats at a small café in the merchant district. Across the street, they watched the Iron Wall, the manufacturing district and home to most of the armorers and weaponsmiths in the city. The heat from the kilns seeped through the street, bleeding into the neighboring districts and providing a welcoming warmth to their outdoor seats. Snow still drifted lightly down, but the city was alive.

“How do you like it so far?” Sethie asked, sipping the warm tea they had ordered.

Sumayya hesitated. “It’s... different. Where I’m from, how you look matters far less than what you can do. If you can earn your place, you’re just fine. That comes with its own problems, of course, but this culture of fear is so foreign to me.”

Sethie slowly spun her tea, lost in thought. "That must be nice," Sethie murmured, her gaze distant as she stared into her tea, “I spent my whole life being treated as less than others. I don’t want that for Zhera.”

Sumayya nodded. “Maybe you can visit Leor one day. It’s a beautiful country,” she chuckled, “depending on which island you visit.”

The pair sat in silence, enjoying their tea and watching the flow of people through the city. After some time, the glint of Coada’s armor caught Sethie’s eye. She leapt up, tossing a gold coin onto the table as she ran to join her. Sumayya smiled from her seat, slowly finishing her drink before sauntering over.

“Didn’t get much shopping done, I see,” Coada smirked.

“We thought it was a nice place to stop for a break,” Sethie replied, walking past them into Iron Wall. “Come on!”

“So, what are we doing in Iron Wall?” Coada asked, following them into a small storefront.

Sumayya pulled out a small pouch of gold. “I’d like to purchase a second rapier.”

“And I’d like to get a few daggers, just in case,” Sethie added.

“In that case, you came to the right place!” an old halfling man bellowed from behind the counter. “So, what’re you looking for?”

Sumayya stepped up to the counter, surveying the weapons scattered about the small shop. “Any rapiers, perhaps?”

He smiled. “I could part with one of my more basic models for about 70 gold.”

“What about your more... detailed ones?”

“My basic enhancements run from 150 to 300 gold. If you’re asking about custom enchantments, I’d need to know what you want,” he said, pausing to gauge Sumayya’s reaction.

She held his gaze. “A basic weapon will suffice.”

“Suit yourself,” he shrugged, hoisting a rapier onto the counter.

Sumayya counted out the gold as Sethie approached. “Can I get some daggers too?” she asked.

“Sure,” the dwarf smiled. “10 gold each.”

Sethie placed the gold onto the table, and the man slid two daggers across. Sumayya followed suit, gently pushing the pile of gold toward him.

“Pleasure doing business,” the man said with a smile, sliding the rapier toward Sumayya.

Sumayya affixed the sheath to her opposite hip as Sethie pocketed the daggers.

“We ready?” Coada asked from the doorway. The pair nodded and followed her out.

The sun had begun to dip below the rooftops as they returned to the brisk air. “I suppose we should head back for the day,” Sethie noted.

Coada nodded. Sumayya looked up at the sky, now mostly clear and painted with hues of deep purple and blue. “I think I’ll stay in my room tonight, get some use out of it,” she concluded.

“Understood,” Coada said. “I’ll stay in my dorms, give your family a night with just you.”

Sethie smiled. “That sounds good. Should we plan to meet tomorrow?”

“I wanted to do some research on the Wasting,” Coada hesitated. “You’re welcome to join me.”

Sumayya nodded. “That sounds like a plan,” Sethie added.

“Wonderful! Meet me at the House of Healing in the Ten Spires tomorrow morning.”

Sethie and Sumayya nodded, and the trio parted ways for the evening.

Session 4 Part 3 - Family

Sethie tensed as they passed the old wall into the city center, leaning closer to her mother as they navigated the narrow streets past the Ten Spires and toward the large brick complex. Torch Side. The old stone stood imposing against the soft designs adorning the rest of the city. The massive complex housed the city prison, the guard headquarters, the Lauthrian Army’s Central Command, and the Panopticon—a maximum-security stronghold for the worst of Astoria. Guards littered the streets around the complex, posted along the walls and rooftops. This was the king's reminder to North Town—a grim structure that separated them from the rest of the city.

Sethie gulped as they approached a small gate, and Orianna squeezed her hand tightly as the guards approached.

“Business?” one of the guards barked. He was a lean elven man with cruel eyes and greasy black hair.

“I’m scheduled to pick up my daughter,” Orianna said steadily. “Zhera Baevyr.”

The guard surveyed them for a moment, lingering on Sethie. “Wait here,” he grunted, pointing to a small shaded area beside the gate.

Sethie and Orianna sat in the shade and began to wait as the guard strolled back behind the stone gate. Ten minutes passed. Then thirty. By an hour, Orianna was growing increasingly impatient. Sethie never moved, her eyes glued to the gates, waiting for her sister to pass through them. Just as Orianna motioned to one of the guards, the gate opened. Sethie froze, feeling her mother’s grip tighten on her hand. The same greasy-haired guard strolled out and eyed the pair again.

Sethie’s chest tightened. The man smirked before turning back to the gate and whistling a harsh, loud tone. Another guard emerged, and Zhera’s purple hair flashed beside him. This man—a slightly older guard with tired eyes and tightly trimmed hair—turned to the pair, pushing Zhera into their arms.

“Keep this one out of trouble,” he growled. “She won’t get off so easily next time.”

Sethie’s blood began to boil, but before she could speak, Orianna pulled her into an embrace with Zhera. “I promise,” she said with sharp certainty.

The three lingered in a tight embrace for a moment before Zhera stepped back, her eyes tired, her hair ruffled with dirt. “Can we go home now?” she signed.

Orianna’s eyes welled with tears as she nodded, squeezing Zhera into another hug. Sethie looped her arm tightly with Zhera’s and began to lead her back.

“Anything interesting?” Coada asked, leaning into Sethie’s room.

“Lots of trinkets,” Sumayya called back. “How’s the tea coming?”

“Nearly there,” Coada responded.

A light bell chimed from downstairs. “And look at the timing,” Coada smiled. Sumayya quickly returned the items and joined Coada at the stove as Sethie led Zhera up the stairs, with Orianna following close behind.

“Welcome back,” Coada said, turning toward the three with a kettle in tow. “Tea?”

Orianna let out a sigh of relief and collapsed into one of the dining room chairs. “That would be marvelous,” she breathed.

“This is Sumayya and Coada,” Sethie signed, turning toward her companions. “This is Zhera!” she exclaimed.

Zhera waved timidly. Sethie watched her move toward the table with a weakness she had never seen in her sister. “Let me wash up your hair, and then you can take a nice nap. How does that sound?” she signed.

Zhera nodded and followed her sister to the washroom. “I’ll be right back!” she called back toward them.

“How long has she been deaf?” Sumayya asked, handing Orianna a cup of tea.

Orianna leaned forward, taking in the hot steam. “She was born with it.”

“I see,” Sumayya replied, as Coada sat beside her with two more cups of tea, offering one to Sumayya.

The three quietly enjoyed their drinks while Sethie and Zhera cleaned up and retired for the day. As the sun began to fall, Orianna excused herself to do some work, while Sumayya and Coada joined Sethie. Zhera was sound asleep, wrapped tightly in her sister’s arms. Sumayya entered, followed by Coada, as they sat on the opposite bed. They sat in silence for a moment, Sethie gently brushing the remaining knots from Zhera’s hair as she slept.

“She’s exhausted,” Sumayya whispered.

Sethie didn’t look up but responded softly, “She shouldn’t have had to go through this. This was my mistake… not hers.”

“You can’t blame yourself for that,” Sumayya insisted. “It’ll drive you crazy.”

Sethie shook her head. “I know. It’s just hard not to.”

Silence fell over the group.

“So…” Sethie began, “Are you going to tell us about those blood recipes or not?” She smiled mischievously toward Sumayya.

Coada leaned back, her tail playfully nudging Sumayya. “Well, go on!” she added.

Sumayya sighed and looked out the door, listening for Orianna. At the sound of clanking glass on the floor below, Sumayya leaned in, Coada and Sethie following suit.

“I need you to understand how important it is that this stays between us,” Sumayya whispered.

The pair nodded in anticipation.

“I’m not exactly an elf,” Sumayya hesitated. “Have you ever heard of a vampire?”

Coada snorted, and Sethie let out a low chuckle. “Like the ghost stories you tell children at night?” Sethie laughed.

“You’re not really telling us you’re a vampire, are you?” Coada questioned with a restrained smile.

“Not exactly,” Sumayya sighed. “I’m the child of one, a Damphyr. And yes, they’re real.”

Coada and Sethie sat silently for a moment before Sethie leaned back. “I’ve honestly heard stranger things,” she commented, returning to her work untangling Zhera’s hair.

“So how is it that you can go out in the daylight?” Coada asked.

“Being the child of one, I don’t have the same hindrances,” Sumayya said, placing her hand over her heart. “Nor do I have their perks.”

“So no bat forms or immortality?” Sethie asked.

Sumayya shook her head.

“How do you feed?” Coada pressed.

Sumayya gestured to her pouch. “Butchers often have some runoff they don’t need, and fresh game tends to be reliable.”

Coada nodded. “Well, I’m in no place to judge,” she smiled, gesturing to her serpentine form.

Sumayya smiled. “I’m glad you guys can understand,” she said as she leaned back into the bed.

“So I’m assuming the vampire half was your father?” Coada continued.

Sumayya sighed. “Yes.”

“What does he look like? Maybe one of us has seen him before,” Coada leaned over.

“Well,” she contemplated, “Probably a lot like me. White hair, red eyes, fangs…”

Coada leaned back, coiling into a seat on the ground. “Hmmm.”

“Look,” Sumayya rolled to her side to face Coada, “Let me sleep on it, okay? I didn’t expect all of this to happen so fast.”

Coada relented, lowering herself to the ground. Rest came quickly as Orianna returned to find the women all fast asleep. She quietly snuffed the lanterns in their room before retiring for the evening.

The next day, Sumayya and Coada set out into town while Sethie stayed with her sister, sharing stories of her journey. Coada stopped by the orphanage to check on Ovar, who relayed that Wora would be available for dinner that evening. She happily accepted, and the pair continued on their way.

“Do you mind if we stop at the inn again?” Sumayya asked as they passed from market to market. “I’d like to see if I have any messages.”

Coada agreed, leading Sumayya back through the city toward the docks.

Sumayya hesitated at the door for a moment. “Mind if I come in this time?” Coada asked.

“Sure,” Sumayya responded.

As they entered, a hush fell over the bar. Coada recognized the tension she brought, looking down at her Arcean armor. Sumayya did too, hesitating in the doorway.

“I’ll take a seat over there,” Coada said with calm confidence. “Grab me when you’re done.”

Sumayya nodded and continued toward the bar. Loanna sat quietly behind the bar, cleaning an already spotless glass. “Need somethin’?” she asked, casting a suspicious glance at Coada.

Sumayya leaned in. “No, she’s… she’s nothing to worry about. I just wanted to check if I had any messages,” she whispered.

Loanna scanned her slowly, pausing for a beat too long. “No,” she finally responded. “I’ll let you know if I do.”

“Thank you for your time,” Sumayya responded, tipping her head.

As she turned to leave, she locked eyes with Coada and nodded toward the door. Coada followed quickly out and back into the streets.

“They clearly are not fans of authority there,” Coada suggested. “What is it that you do again?”

Sumayya hesitated, locking eyes with a Coada. Her gaze was steady and sure. “I travel a lot for my work and sometimes I end up in… different places. That’s all I can tell you right now, believe me.”

Coada shrugged waving her hand as she led them back through the city. "If you say so..."

Their walk back was weighed down by a quiet tension.

That night, Sethie joined them as the three returned to the orphanage. The warm firelight glistened through the window as they arrived.

Coada’s heart leapt when she saw Wora and Ovar sitting in the dining room, conversing. She rushed toward the door, opening it quickly but quietly, trying not to wake the children. A hush fell between Ovar and Wora as they turned to the open door. Coada peeked around the frame with a grin.

"Couldn’t get rid of me, co-" Coada was cut short as Wora crashed into her, enveloping her in her arms.

"I am so happy you’re back!" Wora whispered with excitement. "So much has happened; I can’t wait to tell you!"

"So I’m being told," Coada said softly as she stepped back to take in her friend.

"And I see you brought your new companions," Wora said cheerfully, extending a hand to each of them. "Wora, it’s a pleasure."

"Sarah," Sumayya said with a gentle smile.

"Sethie," came the reply as Sethie followed suit.

"Well, come, sit!" Wora turned, leading the group into the dining room. "A friend of Coada’s is a friend of mine. So tell me about your journey!"

Coada’s smile widened as she followed Wora into the dining room and sat between her two friends. Sumayya and Sethie followed, sitting across from Coada as she began to recount her past month of travels and time in Riversidetown.

"So, what about you?" Coada concluded.

"Well," Wora paused, barely containing her excitement, "I may have gotten a bit of a promotion since you left!"

Coada raised an eyebrow. "Oh yeah?"

"Some context is needed," Wora began. "Right after you left, the head treasurer’s fiancée returned from her studies—she was apparently researching magic in the Ashlands. I’m not sure about the details, but she supposedly snapped and killed him."

"Okay?" Coada noted with confusion.

"Well, Brosvis apparently wanted his seat, so he vacated the position as High Priest. Umeran took his seat, and the whole chain of command began to move around, and Remuth—"

Coada groaned loudly and rolled her eyes.

"Say what you will, but he does have my best intentions in mind!" Wora snapped. "Anyways, he had Brosvis get me a position in the higher court. You, my friend, are looking at the personal priestess to the princess of the Lauthrian Empire!"

Coada leaned forward in surprise. Sethie and Sumayya gasped. Ovar leaned back, tilting his chair on two legs. "I told you a lot has happened!" he laughed casually.

Coada glared at him, playfully tilting his chair, forcing him to jolt back upright. "Anyways," he continued, "there’s more I’m sure you’d like to know about."

Wora nodded. "This is just between us, but I’m sure you saw the armada in the bay, yes?"

Coada looked at Sethie and Sumayya, who both shrugged. "We didn’t actually bother to check," Coada mumbled.

"Well, King Orthtrious is not getting any younger, and the princess is still unmarried..." Wora hesitated. "That’s about to change."

Another audible gasp rang through the room as Sethie and Coada looked at each other in surprise. Sumayya’s eyes narrowed. "To whom?" she asked.

"I’m not sure if you’d know who he is. I didn’t," Wora explained. "Severin Vaerean, of House Vaerean."

Coada looked at her blankly.

"His family were powerful merchants in Leor until they seized the Island of Alhum from the Orthine family, claiming it as their own and subsequently building the second-largest fleet in the world, rivaled only by the Orthinian Armada. They are pirates at best, and most notably, they are human," Sumayya explained.

"A human... as king to the elven nation of magic?" Coada snorted.

"It would seem so," Wora reasoned. "We get their navy forever, and they get our kingdom... for as long as he lives."

The group fell silent for a moment.

"It’s a good deal," Sumayya concluded.

They sat quietly for a few moments longer before returning to lighter conversation. Ovar and Wora regaled them with tales of Coada’s school days, while listening to stories of Sethie and Zhera’s antics. The night slowly drew to a close, and they all said their goodbyes, returning to Orianna’s for another night’s rest.

Session 4 Part 2 - Homecoming

The orphanage was a small, old building made of dark wood, aged by time and the dusty streets. Coada sighed in relief at the sight as they rounded the corner. Some of the children were outside, playing in the fine layer of snow that had begun to coat the town. Inside, she could see Ovar setting the table for their evening meal. A warm fire flickered in the other window. She paused for a moment, contemplating whether or not to approach when Ram caught her eye.

“Coada!” he called out. Nose and Vitrene turned, their eyes lighting up.
“You’re back!” Vitrene called as Coada approached. The three children ran to embrace her, and she scooped them all up.

“I am,” Coada whispered. “Just like I promised.”

As the children began to flood her with questions, the door cracked open. Ovar leaned against the doorframe, his apron stained with flour and his hair ruffled from the day's work. He smiled gently. “Back so soon?”

He tilted his head past her, observing Coada's new allies. “And with friends, I see.”

Coada nodded, placing the children back down. “Come on, time to clean up for dinner,” she said, opening the door for the children to run past. “I have to set a few extra seats. Come in.”

He smiled playfully at Sumayya and Sethie as he turned back into the building, leaving the door slightly ajar. Coada followed, turning toward Sethie and Sumayya with a smile.

The pair entered. It was a small but warm building, the smell of meat pies wafting from the kitchen as the sounds of children running and playing echoed from upstairs. Coada turned left into the dining area, where Ovar was setting extra plates. Sumayya and Sethie took a seat as Coada began to gather silverware to help.

“So,” Ovar began, as he began serving the meals, “What brought you back so soon? Surely it wasn’t because you missed me so much.” He laughed.

Coada flushed. “No! It was...,” she hesitated, “I mean, technically, I think I got fired?”

Ovar paused and looked at her. “You’re joking.”

“Dead serious,” Coada continued. “They weren’t too fond of a serpent cleric of war in their small town, I guess.”

His gaze darkened for a moment before softening again. “I didn’t know that was something they could do to us.”

“Me neither,” Coada snorted as she took a seat beside her companions.

“I didn’t get your names, by the way,” Ovar said, leaning over to shake Sumayya and Sethie’s hands, throwing a playful glare at Coada.

Sethie smiled and shook his hand. “Sethie!”

Sumayya took his hand. “Sarah.”

Coada and Sethie’s eyes shot to Sumayya, who widened her eyes and shook her head slightly.

Ovar paused. “O-kay... Well, the kids will be down shortly, so settle in, and we can talk more after. I’m sure they have lots of questions.”

Before Ovar could take his seat, the children rushed in, with Setil taking a seat on Coada’s lap while the others took their seats. “I think we’re missing someone, don’t you?” Ovar asked inquisitively.

Coada counted the children carefully. “No?” she responded cautiously.

“Setil, will you go get Olan and take your seat?” Ovar commanded gently.

Setil nodded and hopped off Coada’s lap. “Olan?” Coada questioned.

Moments later, Setil returned carrying a small half-orc, not yet two years old. Setil looked to Ovar, who nodded toward Coada. She gingerly took the baby from Setil and began rocking him gently. Sethie leaned in, lovingly humming a sleepy tune in time with Coada’s movements.

“When?” Coada whispered.

“A few days after you left. Lost his parents in a shipyard accident.” Ovar hesitated. “Coada, there is so much that has happened since you left. I don’t even know where to begin.”

“This was a good start,” Coada said, smiling toward the sleeping Olan. “Perhaps Wora could join us for dinner tomorrow?”

“That might be a bit—” Ovar caught himself. “I’ll see if she can. She’s been very busy. Perhaps check back tomorrow, and I’ll have a solid date.”

Coada looked up with concern. “Is everything alright?”

“Yes, yes,” Ovar assured. “Like I said, a lot has happened, and this is something she should tell you herself. I’ll arrange dinner, but for now, let’s enjoy the evening.”

Coada nodded, turning her attention back to the children.

As dinner came to a close, Ovar ushered the children to bed before returning to say his goodbyes to the trio.

“Thank you for the meal. It was lovely,” Sumayya smiled gently as she shook his hand.

“Yes, thank you,” Sethie added.

“I’m happy to provide. Say hello to your mom for me!” Ovar winked as Sethie’s eyes widened in surprise. “Didn’t think I’d recognize a kid from my part of town?”

She laughed. Coada smiled and pulled Ovar in for a long hug. “We’ll see you tomorrow, okay?”

“That’s the plan!” he said, giving her a tight squeeze before heading back into the orphanage. He gave them a warm nod before closing the door.

“Now to your home, yes?” Sumayya asked as they continued back into the streets.

“Yep!” Sethie chirped. “So... Sarah, huh?”

Sumayya looked down, rubbing her neck. “I may have forgotten to mention that while we’re in town, I’d rather go by that name.”

“Okay then,” Sethie responded jokingly, leading the group forward. “Sarah it is!”

Coada’s eyes narrowed as she met Sumayya’s gaze. “It’s a—” Sumayya hesitated. “Work thing.”

Coada’s gaze remained fixed. “Okay then. Whatever you wish.”

“Thank you,” Sumayya said firmly, turning to follow Sethie. Coada followed quietly.

The shop was not too far from the orphanage—just a few winding blocks farther into the North Corner. From the streetfront, the store appeared dark and empty, with only the second-floor window illuminated by faint candlelight. Sethie let out a long sigh as they approached. She hesitated, fumbling for her keys. It’s fine, she thought to herself, taking a deep breath before quietly unlocking the door.

“Mom?” she called out into the dark shop, leading the party through to the back room.

“I’m home!” she called again, turning up the stairs to see her mother standing at the top, arms crossed. Her stomach tightened.

“You made good time,” Orianna said sternly.

“I was already on the way,” Sethie responded. Coada and Sumayya waited quietly in the shadows, not wanting to become part of the tense exchange.

“Decided it was worth the risk to come back before I said so?” Orianna replied.

“I—” Sethie hesitated. “I wanted to come home,” she said softly, wincing in anticipation of further scolding.

Before she could open her eyes, her mother had descended the stairs and scooped her into a tight hug.

“I’m glad you’re home,” Orianna hummed before abruptly releasing Sethie and gathering her robes over her nightgown. “And you brought guests, it seems.”

Orianna muttered under her breath, “Perhaps you could have warned me?”

Sethie smirked. “So sorry. This is Coada and Su—Sarah.”

Orianna smiled warmly, reaching out to shake Coada’s hand. “It’s nice to put a name to the face, Coada. You do good work in these parts.”

“And you as well,” Coada responded, bowing her head slightly. “You’re something of a legend yourself.”

Orianna waved off the compliment with a smile before turning to Sumayya. “And Sarah, correct?”

Sumayya took her hand. “Yes, we met in Riversidetown and traveled up together. Your daughter has been great company.”

Orianna’s eyes narrowed for a moment before softening. “I’m sure she has. Well, if you’ll excuse me, I do need to get some rest. I have to pick up this one’s sister tomorrow.”

Sumayya and Coada nodded.

“Would it be okay if they stayed here tonight?” Sethie asked as Orianna began to scale the stairs.

Orianna paused, looking at the pair. “That should be fine,” she finally said.

“Your father has arranged Zhera’s release tomorrow morning. I think you should join me,” Orianna added.

“Wait,” Sethie froze. “Why would he be involved?”

Orianna tensed. “It’s not that important,” she mumbled, continuing into her room. “We’ll talk about it tomorrow.”

Sethie looked toward Coada and Sumayya before continuing up the stairs. The pair followed cautiously into a small room with two beds.

“I’ll take Zhera’s bed for now. Sarah, you can take mine, and Coada—”

“I think I’ll be fine on the floor,” Coada cut in, looking at the small space they were about to share.

“Sorry,” Sethie whispered under her breath.

“It’s fine,” Coada mouthed back, nestling in between the two beds.

The three sat in silence for a moment before Sethie jumped to her feet. “No,” she mumbled to herself, darting toward the door.

In seconds she stood in her mothers shadowed room. Orianna looked up from her book expectantly.

“Father?” Sethie began.

Orianna groaned, rolling her eyes as she set her book down. “Do you really want to do this now?”

Sethie nodded.

“Look, you just got back. I’m sure you’re tired. Let’s talk in the morning,” Orianna continued.

“Nope, we’re doing this now,” Sethie commanded.

“Your father arranged for her release, and both of your records have been expunged.”

Sethie’s brow furrowed. “Why? After all these years, why does he suddenly care about us?”

Orianna let out a long sigh. “Elections are coming up, and he doesn’t want your records to affect his campaign.”

“Of course,” Sethie snorted.

“Look, what’s done is done, and now you both have a fresh start. I expect you not to mess it up this time.” Orianna slammed her book shut. “Now, off to bed. We’ll talk more in the morning.”

Sethie turned with a huff and stormed back into the room where Coada and Sumayya were awkwardly trying to avoid getting involved. She glanced at them for a long moment before throwing herself onto the bed and blowing out her candle.

The next morning, the party was greeted by the rich smell of bacon and eggs wafting into their room. Sethie opened her eyes lazily, adjusting to her surroundings. For a brief moment, she thought she saw Zhera, but then realized it was Sumayya sitting in her bed. Coada stretched her arms before rising from the floor.

“Good morning!” Orianna sang from the doorway. “How about some breakfast to start the day?”

“That would be great!” Sethie said cheerfully, hopping out of bed. “I’ll set the table.”

As the group gathered around the small table and Orianna served their plates, she looked curiously at each of them. “So… what’s your plan for the day?” she asked.

“Well, pick up Zhera,” Sethie replied.

“Aside from that, I mean,” Orianna said with a restrained smile.

“I’d like to stop by a butcher shop, if possible,” Sumayya added, carefully cutting through the tension.

“There’s one right around the corner,” Orianna said, looking at Sethie. “Perhaps you could take her before we head out for the day?”

Sethie nodded, turning her attention back to her meal. After the group finished eating, Coada joined Orianna in cleaning up the dishes while Sethie and Sumayya left for the butcher shop.

“So…” Orianna glanced at Coada. “How exactly did my daughter end up partnering with an official cleric of the church?”

“Well,” Coada began, “We met when I was stationed in Riversidetown. She’s been a great ally and very helpful in my journey. So, what happened to her and her sister?”

Orianna shook her head. “Petty thievery. That girl has so much potential, and she uses it to steal from Old Towners.”

“I can see that,” Coada laughed.

Orianna shook her head. “Hopefully, time with you will set her straight.”

Coada paused and looked at Orianna for a long moment. “I understand how you feel… The kids at the orphanage like to find trouble. It can be—”

“Exhausting,” Orianna cut in.

Coada nodded knowingly as the two of them quietly finished cleaning up breakfast.

“So,” Sethie began as they stepped out of the butcher shop. “What’s with the blood?”

Sumayya looked away. “It’s for my… recipes.”

“Mm-hmm,” Sethie mumbled suspiciously as the two of them stepped into the morning air.

As they returned to Orianna’s, Coada and Orianna had descended the stairs. “Ah! Perfect timing,” Orianna called from the storefront. “Sethie, let’s head out. Sarah, Coada, you’re welcome to stay while we’re gone.”

Sumayya nodded toward Sethie and continued into the back of the shop as Orianna passed by. “We’ll be back soon,” Orianna smiled.

Sethie gave Sumayya and Coada an excited smile as she turned to follow her mother out onto the street.

“So,” Coada asked mischievously, “Want to take a look through Sethie’s childhood room?”

Sumayya smirked. “Sure,” she said, continuing up the stairs.

“What did you get from the butcher shop, by the way?” Coada asked.

Sumayya hesitated. “Just some items for a recipe,” she said, gently setting her bag down.

Coada’s eyes narrowed. “Oh yeah? What recipe?”

“Oh, you know…” Sumayya laughed nervously, “Blood pudding and stuff like that.”

“Riiiight.”

Sumayya continued into Sethie’s room, avoiding eye contact with Coada. “So, were you raised at the orphanage?” she asked.

Coada’s eyes widened. “Yes, I was. Why do you ask?”

“Well, you clearly have a fondness for it,” Sumayya noted.

“And how about you?” Coada asked.

“I…” Sumayya hesitated. “I told you I lost someone to the Wasting. It was my mother.”

Coada lowered her gaze.

Sumayya shook her head. “It was a long time ago.”

“And your father?” Coada asked.

“I never knew him.” Sumayya paused for a moment, her shoulders dropping slightly as she contemplated her next words. “That’s really why I’m here. My work brought me here, but my personal purpose is to find him. I know he lives here, but that’s about it.”

“Ah, absent fathers. We all seem to have that in common in this group,” Coada chuckled.

Sumayya laughed softly. “Yeah, I guess we do.”

Session 4 Part 1 - Road to Ysora

“When I find them, they’re dead!” Coada growled, pacing angrily around the camp.

“There’s nothing to be done now,” Sumayya concluded, handing Coada her bag. “If we’re lucky, we can catch up to them, but it’s hardly worth the effort. We don’t know how far they’ve gone.”

“Agreed,” Sethie added. “They’re probably long gone.”

Coada sighed and shook her head, taking the bag from Sumayya. “Well, I guess we’ll be finishing this journey on foot.”

Sumayya nodded as Sethie passed by, reassuringly patting Coada’s shoulder. “Let’s go then,” Sethie hummed, beginning down the path.

Sumayya followed, and Coada joined them in stride.

The following days passed slowly, the dark sky and icy air cutting through them. As they reached the edge of the forest and stepped out into the farmlands, bitter winds swept through. Without the shelter of the forest, they were exposed to the full force of fall. Coada moved forward with urgency, asking passersby if they had seen the horse thieves, but to no avail. Sumayya and Sethie followed close behind. It became increasingly clear, unfortunately, that they wouldn’t catch the men.

Eventually, Coada relented, and the trio continued their journey at a more casual pace. As dusk approached, the group began searching for a place to camp. As they walked down the quiet road, Sumayya paused. Coada and Sethie slowed their pace and turned back to look at her. Sumayya nodded quietly toward the horizon where a small caravan had set up for the evening.

Coada sighed heavily. Sethie groaned. “Let’s go. We have to make camp anyway. Might as well get to know our neighbors.”

Sumayya nodded and followed Sethie toward the small caravan. Gentle music and laughter danced through the air as they approached. Around the fire, a small group of people were cheerfully partaking in an evening meal.

“Hello!” Sethie chirped.

The group quieted as they turned to greet the party. An older elven man, dressed in colorful robes, smiled. “Well, hello!”

A younger elven woman with long, wavy brown hair and olive skin sat beside him. Her long, colorful gown glittered in the firelight. She smiled softly and outstretched her hand. “Come, sit!”

Sethie smiled and nodded reassuringly to her companions before taking a seat beside a halfling man with short, fluffy hair. He offered her a glass of dark wine. She cautiously accepted as Sumayya and Coada took their seats beside her.

“Ah, guests I see!” boomed a heavy voice from the carriage as a stout dwarven man stepped out with a fresh bottle of wine.

A tiefling woman with long red hair followed him, carrying a small basket of bread. She froze for a moment before locking eyes with Sethie. An air of relief washed over her. “It’s nice to see some friendly faces,” she hummed. Her dark gown contrasted the group’s colorful energy.

“Alana,” the tiefling continued, sitting across from the party.

“Tormond!” the dwarven man followed, serving up plates of food and offering them to the party.

“Arella,” the elven woman added, leaning casually in her seat. “And this old man here is Marlan,” she said, patting the elven man’s shoulder.

The halfling tapped his glass against Sethie’s. “Roland. Pleasure!”

“Sethie,” she hesitated, “and this is Coada and Sumayya!”

“Welcome,” Marlan smiled. “What brings you to this quiet stretch of road?”

“Heading home, back to Ysora,” Sethie replied. “And you all?”

Alana leaned in, her ruby eyes glinting in the fire. “We’re headed to Ysora as well. We’re a traveling band of sorts, making our way to the city for the winter festival.”

Sethie’s eyes lit up. “Oh? Have you been? It’s breathtaking!”

Alana smiled. “Not for many years.”

Sumayya leaned in, surveying the group. “Where have your travels taken you?” she asked.

“All over,” Tormond groaned, leaning back into his seat.

Coada rolled her eyes.

“That's the best answer,” he continued, looking sternly at her. “If you want specifics, I’m from Ulnmont Falls, up in Arvendor, so’s that little shit.” He laughed, gesturing to the halfling, Roland.

Roland snickered in response.

“We’re from Louvine,” Arella added, bumping her shoulder against Marlan’s.

“And I’m from Farenvar,” Alana finished.

“We started as a father-daughter act, picked up Alana on our way north, and those two in Arvendor,” Arella smiled gently. “Been traveling together ever since.”

“Say, can we make a deal?” Marlan paused, formulating his next words. “Since you don’t have horses, you can travel with us to Ysora. Should cut a few days off your journey.”

Coada’s eyes narrowed. “In exchange for?”

“Well…” he continued, “We’re not exactly a licensed performing group, and the guards do love to give our kind a hard time. With your…” He gestured to her armor. “...station, perhaps you could get us into the city without any unnecessary trouble.”

Coada pondered for a moment, glancing at Sethie and Sumayya. Sumayya shrugged, lifting her flask to her mouth. Sethie smiled and nodded.

“Looks like we have a deal,” Coada said, reaching over the fire to offer her hand.

Marlan accepted. “To the road ahead!”

As they sat around the flickering fire, some heading off to rest while others shared stories of their travels, Sethie heard a familiar voice enter her mind. “Sethie, you should be fine to head home now. Your sister will be out soon. I love you, and I am eager to see you.”

She leaned back in her seat, quietly responding, “Hi, Mom. I’m on my way. I’ll see you soon. I love you.” She waited for a few moments, but no further messages came.

Sethie sighed and looked to her companions. “I’m going to get some rest,” she groaned as she rose to her feet.

Coada nodded. Sumayya stood. “Sounds good. Let’s head to bed. I’ll take the first watch.”

The next few days passed with little excitement. Sethie settled into the caravan, sharing stories and performances with their new companions. Sumayya and Coada remained reserved, keeping to themselves and ever skeptical of the group.

Around noon, the caravan crested a large hill, revealing their destination below. The rolling farmlands bled into sparse houses and shops, growing denser until a large wall cut across them, dividing the city proper from the outside world. To the east, the rolling hills climbed into the southern half of the Ysoran mountains, skirting the north of the city. To the west, the Radiant Bay glistened, its deep blue betraying the bitter cold of fall.

Sumayya watched in awe. The elven architecture, medieval as it was, was an ode to the magical lifeblood of the country— a stark contrast to the uninspired practicality of Castlevale. Sethie looked to Sumayya, watching her take in the city. “Welcome to Ysora,” she hummed.

Sumayya smiled. “It’s beautiful.”

Coada wrapped her tail around Sethie and Sumayya. “We’re almost there,” she mumbled.

“Finally!” Roland breathed, stretching back into the seat beside Coada.

Alana looked at Sethie, offering her a tan cloak. Sethie looked at her in confusion at first before a saddened understanding flooded her. She took the cloak and slowly covered herself, nestling beside Alana.

Sumayya watched the pair settle toward the back of the cart with confusion. “I suppose you never got out much,” Roland whispered, bumping his shoulder into Sumayya.

“While it’s nice to see an elf like yourself without such reservations,” he continued, “your people aren’t generally so kind to most others. Tieflings and other less humanoid races have it the worst.”

Coada’s chest tightened at his words. Her eyes were fixed on the road ahead. Sumayya nodded, looking back at the road ahead.

“Halt!” the guard’s voice echoed through the carriage. “No entry without a full search and papers.”

Marlan hesitated, glancing back at Coada.

Coada straightened, slipping down from the cart. “I am a priestess of House Arceous, returning from my duties in Riversidetown. Coada Alba.”

The guard surveyed her with harsh skepticism, glancing between the cart and the priestess. “Hold here,” he commanded, turning toward the guardhouse.

Several minutes of tense silence passed before he returned. “All right,” the man said begrudgingly. “You’re clear to enter.”

Coada nodded and looked at Marlan. “Let’s go.”

The troupe continued in silence for several blocks before turning off to a smaller tavern. “Well, this is where we part ways,” Marlan said softly, placing his hand on Coada’s shoulder. “Thank you, and the best of luck on your journey.”

Coada nodded. “Same to you.”

The group exchanged goodbyes, and in moments, the trio was on their own. “Do you have somewhere to stay?” Sethie asked, looking to Sumayya and Coada.

“I have arrangements,” Sumayya hesitated, looking at her notes, “at the Harbingers Rest Inn.”

“That’s on the way into the city center, I believe,” Sethie said, glancing at Coada.

Coada paused, thinking for a moment. “I think it is... I’ve seen it in the Merchant District. Follow me.”

Coada led the party through the winding streets of southern Ysora, stopping occasionally to ask for directions. Soon, they found themselves in front of a modest inn just off the shipyard.

Sumayya hesitated at the door. “Would you mind waiting outside?”

Coada and Sethie exchanged surprised glances. “Sure?” Sethie responded.

Sumayya gave a small, gentle smile. “Thanks, I’ll be quick.”

The small inn was warm and inviting. A few patrons sat at tables spread throughout the entrance—one group was playing cards, while another quietly enjoyed an early drink. Behind the bar, a handsome human man with dark brown hair that fell just above his collar and a clean-cut beard was reclined in a chair, reading a book. “Welcome in!” he called, briefly glancing up and offering an inviting smile.

Sumayya took a seat across from the bar. “I’m looking for someone by the name of Loanna.”

The man paused, carefully studying her over his book. “Your name?”

Sumayya hesitated. “Sumayya Al-Hasan,” she whispered.

He studied her for a long moment before nodding. “One second.” He stood abruptly and exited through the swinging kitchen doors.

Sumayya surveyed the room. No one seemed to pay her any mind, and just as she finished scanning the room, the doors swung open again. A hard-faced halfling woman stepped out, followed by the man.

The halfling’s sharp green eyes met Sumayya’s before softening. “Ah, Sarah!” she called out. “You’re a few days ahead of when we expected, but luckily for you, we do have a room ready.”

Sumayya bit back a correction but nodded. “Y-yes, sorry, the road was much more favorable than anticipated.”

“Loanna,” the halfling smiled, leaning over the bar with an outstretched hand. “And this is Jona. If you need anything, just ask. But for now, follow me—I’ll show you to your quarters.” Loanna hopped down from behind the bar, a large package tucked under her left arm.

Sumayya stood and followed Loanna up the stairs to a modest room. Loanna entered after her and closed the door. “Here.” She handed the package to Sumayya, with the room key resting on top. “Your items.”

Sumayya took the package gingerly. “Thank you.”

Loanna nodded and turned toward the door, pausing mid-step. “A few ground rules: Don’t cause any trouble, don’t use your real name, and don’t leave any connection to our inn when you leave. If you need an incinerator, we have one in the basement.”

Sumayya nodded.

“Good,” Loanna said, continuing toward the door. “It’s always a pleasure doing business with your lot.”

As the door clicked shut behind her, Sumayya looked down at the package now resting in her hands. She decided to wait until later, stowing it beneath the bed and returning to her companions, who were patiently waiting outside.

“Finished?” Coada inquired as Sumayya stepped out of the inn.

“All checked in,” Sumayya replied. “Where to now?”

“I have some people I need to check on,” Coada said, her tone unusually soft.

“And I need to see my mother,” Sethie added.

Sumayya gestured to the busy street. “After you.”

The three continued through the city, traveling from the Merchant District past the old wall and into the heart of Ysora. Sumayya took in every detail—the layout of the streets, the presence of guards and officers, the types of people walking by—learning everything she could about this new city she would soon call home. To the west, perched upon a rocky hill that stretched out into the bay, stood the castle, a grand and ancient structure looming over the city. To the northeast, the city began to climb into the mountainside, growing ever denser as it rose.

As they passed through the city center, Sethie’s stomach tightened. She looked toward the small café at the edge of the fountain, now closing for the day. It hadn’t been that long, but it felt like ages, she thought to herself.

They continued past the Ten Spires, the grand towers that adorned each chapel dedicated to the gods. Coada lowered her head, hurrying past until they reached the northern portion of the old wall.

Sethie paused and looked at Coada. “Who do you know here?” she asked.

“I help with the orphanage here. Why? Do you know someone in the North Corner?” Coada asked, continuing through the old streets.

Sethie snorted. “I live here. My mother is Orianna Baevyr.”

Coada stopped dead in her tracks. “Small world! I had no idea!”

Sethie patted Coada on the shoulder as she took the lead into the small district. “I knew I recognized you when we first met.”

Coada nodded, continuing behind her, with Sumayya following close behind.

Session 3 - Road to Ysora

“I'll gather my things and meet you at the stable,” Coada said, stepping out of the building.

Sethie raised an eyebrow. “Didn’t we say we’d leave tomorrow?”

Coada didn’t slow her pace. “The sooner we leave, the better,” she replied curtly.

Sethie glanced at Sumayya, who was already moving to pack their things. “Too much attention here,” Sumayya murmured, almost to herself.

Sethie fell into step beside her, quietly accepting the plan. Coada stopped at the church, pushing open the door. Tanston was lounging before the altar, a pipe dangling from his lips and a book in hand. He raised an eyebrow when Coada entered.

“I have to leave town,” Coada said softly. “Something’s come up. I’m needed back home.”

Tanston’s gaze sharpened for a moment, but he only nodded, his voice low. “Long journey ahead, then.”

Coada nodded, her bag still packed and waiting on the stairs. She grabbed it, taking one last look around the quiet church before heading back down and offering a brief nod to Tanston.

"Oh, and Coada!"

She paused, looking back.

Tanston smiled with a warm gentleness. "Don’t be a stranger."

Coada nodded and left, the door clicking softly behind her.

Sethie and Sumayya were already waiting by the stables. Coada glanced at the horses, then at her companions.

“No horses?” she asked, eyebrows raised.

Sumayya and Sethie shook their heads.

“We’ll manage,” Coada said, collecting her gear from the stablemaster. They’d make do with the one horse.

In moments, the party was on the road, heading north toward Ysora—home for two, and an unexplored place for one.

Fall was dying, and with it, the days grew colder. By the fourth night, as the sky darkened, the party sought refuge in the dense forest.

“How are you holding up?” Sethie asked, gathering wood for the fire.

Coada shivered, teeth chattering. “Terrible, but no sense in complaining. Wouldn’t mind finding something large to hunt, though. Something I can turn into a blanket.” She gave Sethie a pointed look.

Sethie raised an eyebrow, breaking off a dead branch and tossing it onto the fire. "You do have a way of putting things."

“Maybe I’ll find something first,” Sumayya chimed in, glancing up from the camp. “I’ve got a craving for a good hunt.”

Coada met her eyes, a challenge in her gaze. “We’ll see who catches it first.”

Sumayya smirked, showing a flash of teeth. "Oh, we will."

Sethie sighed, her voice drifting over the crackling wood. “Fresh meat, though... that would be a nice meal.”

The trio continued to work, setting up camp. As night fell, they took turns keeping watch. When Coada’s turn arrived, she decided to scout the area for game. Instead, what she found in the woods wasn't a deer but an old chapel, half-buried under the encroaching forest.

She stood at the entrance for a long moment, admiring the eerie solitude. It was small, run-down, but undeniably beautiful in its quiet desolation. After a moment’s hesitation, she entered, the wood crunching beneath her.

The chapel was dark, its walls weathered, the pews scattered and broken. Coada’s eyes wandered over the old carvings before they landed on the altar. A statue of Aegis, the birth-mother, stood there, her features serene despite the ruin around her. As Coada approached, a soft warmth seemed to pulse from the statue, contrasting the bitter cold of the night.

Coada lingered for a moment, letting the warmth soak into her chilled bones before she reluctantly turned back to the camp, eager to wait for dawn before exploring further.

The next morning, as the first rays of sunlight bathed the chapel in pale light, Sumayya and Sethie stirred, their grogginess fading into curiosity.

“Anything interesting we missed?” Sumayya asked, stifling a yawn.

“No game,” Coada replied. “But I found something... a small temple. Want to see it?”

Sethie’s eyes brightened. “That sounds fun!”

“A break from the journey sounds nice,” Sumayya added with a smile.

Coada nodded, shouldering her pack. “Then let’s go.”

They broke camp quickly, and soon they were back in the woods, following Coada as she led them to the old chapel. The warmth greeted them as they stepped inside, and Sethie let out a relieved sigh.

Sumayya moved closer to the statue, inspecting it with curious eyes. “What’s causing that?” she asked.

Coada shrugged. “Maybe some old charm left over from Aegis’s worship.”

Sethie crouched by the base of the statue, eyes narrowing as she noticed a faint crevice. “Or maybe it's something in the statue itself,” she said, pointing to a small hatch hidden at the base.

Coada and Sumayya leaned in, impressed. “Good catch!” Coada cheered.

“Now how to open it?” Sumayya mused, brushing away moss from the base.

“Aegis holds a seashell in her right hand and an olive branch in her left,” Coada said, her voice contemplative. “Maybe those are the key.”

They searched the wreckage of the chapel, finding little more than broken stone and debris.

“I’ve got the branch!” Sethie exclaimed, holding up an old carving of olive wood.

“I found the shell… so to to speak,” Sumayya said, her voice faltering. She held up the shattered pieces of what should have been a smooth stone seashell.

“Let's try it anyway,” Coada suggested. “If it’s magic, it might still work.”

With a shrug, Sumayya placed the broken shell into the statue’s hand. Sethie followed, placing the branch into the other. The sound of stone grinding on stone echoed through the small chapel as the hatch slowly opened, revealing a small leather pouch and a faded note.

Coada carefully removed both, her fingers brushing against the note. She unfolded it and read aloud: “In times of bitter cold, seek the birth-mother’s warmth.”

She turned over the pouch and, with a small click, a ring tumbled out. The metal glowed faintly, its warmth spreading through her fingers.

“I think I’ll need this,” Coada said, holding up the ring. “Give me a moment to attune to it.”

“Sure,” Sethie smiled, her breath visibly fogging in the air.

Sumayya raised an eyebrow. “If you’re sure…”

Coada grinned, slipping the ring onto her finger. They sat for some time as Coada felt the warmth slowly seep through her skin, filling her with a comforting heat that kept the cold at bay.

“How does it feel?” Sethie asked, leaning closer.

“It feels… amazing.” Coada looked up at the others, her smile widening. “I don’t feel cold at all.”

Sethie scooted closer, practically pressing her side against Coada’s. “You feel like summer.”

Sumayya smiled, walking over to hover a hand over Coada’s shoulder. “Like walking in the middle of a warm afternoon.”

Coada stood, feeling the warmth ebb away the lingering chill in her bones. “Well, we should get going. No sense in staying here.”

The three nodded and gathered their things, heading back to their horse.

As the day drew onwards, the sky darkened once again, Sumayya stopped, her gaze drifting toward the trees. “We should stop for the night. We won’t make it to an inn.”

They agreed, and began setting up camp.

“Say, Sumayya,” Coada asked, “There’s still some light left. Want to go for a little hunt?”

Sumayya flashed a predatory smile and pointed toward a clearing deeper in the woods, gesturing for Sethie to follow. Sethie hitched the horse and followed the pair.

At the edge of the clearing, they waited. A small doe stepped cautiously from the opposite woods, grazing peacefully in the open field.

“I’ve got this,” Sumayya said, her voice cold and precise. She drew her blades and melted into the shadows along the treeline. She paused for a moment, ensuring she wouldn’t startle the deer before leaping forward and securing their meal with brutal efficiency.

Coada and Sethie watched in surprise. Sumayya turned to them. “Well, come on now!” she called.

The pair joined her, and together they hoisted the doe back to their camp. Coada and Sumayya guided Sethie through the process of preparing the deer.

“Here,” Coada smiled, holding the freshly removed heart toward Sethie, her hands bloodied. “Have a bite.”

Sethie’s face tightened. “What?”

“It’s an old hunter’s tradition,” Coada said, biting into the heart before offering it to Sethie again.

Sethie looked to Sumayya, who nodded reassuringly. With a hesitant sigh, Sethie took a bite, the taste of iron filling her senses. “There!” she exclaimed, holding the heart out to Sumayya. “Your turn.”

“Gladly,” Sumayya smiled, taking a long bite from the heart. Coada’s eyes narrowed as Sumayya indulged in another bite before continuing with the cleaning process.

By dusk, the party had finished preparing the deer and began cooking the meat. Coada and Sumayya stretched the hide near the fire to dry it before washing up in the nearby stream. After a hearty meal and a long day’s work, they settled down for a well-earned rest.

Dawn arrived quickly, and the party packed up, quietly continuing their journey. The days passed in much the same way: some nights spent in inns, others in the quiet woods. Few travelers crossed their path, and the quiet days seemed to carry them closer to their destination.

A few days later, as the party set camp, Coada’s gaze was drawn to a distant flicker of light through the trees.

“Other travelers?” Sumayya asked, glancing at Coada.

“Probably,” Coada replied, but there was something in her voice that suggested more than casual curiosity. “We should check it out.”

The three moved quietly through the trees, careful not to alert the camp of their approach. They reached a small clearing, where a campfire burned low. Three figures sat around it, enjoying a meal. At the sound of Coada’s armor clinking against a tree, all three tensed, and one—a younger elven man with ruffled brown hair—looked toward them, his hand reaching instinctively for his sword.

“Who’s there?” he called, his voice sharp.

Another figure, a lean elven man with cropped blond hair and dark robes, stood up, raising a hand in greeting. “Relax, Eshie,” he said with a smile. “Come on out, no need to hide.”

Sethie and Sumayya exchanged confused glances.

“Join us!” Eshie said, his tone light.

The trio stepped into the firelight. Sethie paused. “Wait a second,” she said, narrowing her eyes. “You were at one of the inns we stayed at, weren’t you?”

Eshie’s grin widened. “The very same. Looks like we’re heading the same way! This is Ovo.” he said as he gestured to the lean elf, nodding toward the third figure, a man with ashen skin, “And that’s Ugoluc.”

“Small world,” Sumayya muttered as they settled around the fire.

The man with the ashen skin, Ugoluc, gave them a long, quiet look. His skin was a pale gray, marked with intricate, vine-like tattoos, and his long white hair was pulled back tightly. His eyes met Coada’s stare.

“First time seeing someone like me?” he asked in a thick accent.

Coada hesitated before answering, feeling the weight of his stare. 

“Not in a long time.” Sumayya interjected.

“Well, that makes sense,” Ugoluc said with a smirk.

The fire crackled, the warmth of it a sharp contrast to the chill in the air. After a beat of silence, Eshie spoke again, his voice casual but carrying an edge. “What’s bringing you to Ysora?”

“Heading home,” Sethie said.

“And you?” Sumayya asked.

Eshie hesitated for a moment. “We’re looking for work. Thought Ysora might be a good place to settle for a while.”

Coada’s eyes narrowed. “Where are you from?”

Eshie shrugged. “All over. We’ve been traveling together for a while. Just trying to see the world.”

A quiet tension hung in the air, as if they were all testing the waters, trying to understand each other.

“Well,” Sethie smiled, standing up. “It was nice meeting you, but we should really get some rest.”

Sumayya rose slowly, her eyes lingering on Ugoluc before she turned to follow Sethie.

“Rest well,” Eshie called out as they returned to their camp.

“We need to take watches tonight,” Coada whispered as they settled into their camp. 

That night, they took turns keeping watch, though their eyes kept drifting toward the distant fire. No sounds came from the other camp, no movement. By dawn, the fire had burned out, and still there was no movement.

Sethie groggily emerged from her tent. “Anything?”

Coada’s gaze stayed fixed on the other camp, still quiet and undisturbed. “Nothing.”

Sumayya’s voice cut through the silence. “We’ve got a problem.”

Coada turned sharply, following Sumayya’s gaze towards the back of their camp, where their horse had been hitched. It was gone.

Session 2 - Winters Coming Festival

As morning approached, Coada reported to Jenna that the two individuals responsible for the theft had been dealt with, and everything had been settled. The town was already alive with families gathering for the festival. Vendors had begun selling their goods, and music drifted through the small streets. The chilled air nipped at Coada as she explored the festivities, eventually steering her toward the warmth of the tavern, where she found Sethie and Sumayya settling in for their morning meal.

 Coada joined them at their table, and the three enjoyed a quiet breakfast while watching the bustle of the people. As Sethie discussed the festivities, Sumayya suddenly heard a familiar voice in her mind.

“If you haven’t had enough sense to leave yet,” Morland’s voice danced through her thoughts, “meet me behind the butcher shop promptly.”

Sumayya sighed and looked toward the group. “I’m going to get some fresh air. I’ll meet you later in the square?”

“Sounds good!” Sethie chimed, and Coada nodded. After Sumayya excused herself, the pair finished their meals and made their way to the town square to explore the festival.

Sumayya wandered casually through the square, perusing the vendors as she passed. Eventually, she found the butcher’s shop—a small building with a tight alley on its left side, leading to a small wooded area behind. Letting out another sigh, she thought, This may be a trap. She cautiously slipped into the alley, peering behind the building into the woods. There, Morland leaned casually against a tree, puffing on a small pipe. He greeted her with a friendly nod as she approached.

“Mornin’,” he began. “I see you got my message.”

“I did,” Sumayya replied, stepping slowly into the alley.

He paused for a moment, considering his next words. “Look, we’ve had a rather tumultuous relationship since we first met, but I think we both understand that business is business. Today, however, is different. This is personal for me. So, I’d appreciate it if you and your friends kept our familiarity private. Best not to start any fights in the center of a busy town.”

Sumayya contemplated his words. “That sounds like a fair agreement. No trouble from you, no trouble from us.”

He smiled again and tapped out the ashes of his pipe. “Glad we could come to an understanding,” he said, walking past her. “I hope you enjoy the festival.” He tipped his hat before slipping back into the crowd.

Sumayya paused for a moment, enjoying the quiet before returning to the bustling town. It didn’t take long to find Coada and Sethie, who had spent the morning enjoying the festival games and shopping. As she approached, Coada eagerly showed her the wooden animal carvings she had bought for the children, while Sethie offered up the sweets she had purchased.

Soon, the group found their way to a craft table where they helped Arabella and Rubee make straw festival dolls with the children. Coada and Sethie took to the project easily, assisting the children while chatting with Arabella and Rubee about the town. Sumayya watched quietly, fascinated by the pair’s ease with the children.

Sethie looked toward Sumayya and paused. “Have you ever made one before?” she asked with a smile.

Sumayya shook her head. “No, I haven’t.”

“Well, let me show you!” Sethie exclaimed as she slid closer, walking Sumayya through the steps of cutting and shaping the straw. As Sumayya worked, Coada joined her on the opposite side of Sethie, crafting her own doll.

As the three worked, Sethie saw Arabella jump with excitement and rush into the crowd. Curiosity pulled at Sethie, and she excused herself to follow. She watched as Arabella made her way briskly through the crowd and embraced Morland. “I didn’t know you were back from your travels!” she exclaimed. Sethie lingered for a moment, considering whether or not to engage with them, before returning to Coada and Sumayya.

As the day wore on, the group participated in axe throwing and arm wrestling, eventually making their way to the town center as the sun began to set. The entire town gathered around a large pyre as Tanson chanted blessings for the coming winter before lighting the fire. One by one, the children lined up to toss their dolls into the flames as an offering to the gods. As the moment of introspection waned, music filled the air and the town came alive with song and dance.

The night stretched on, with the large bonfire warding off the bitter air as townspeople celebrated their fruitful harvest. A surprise proposal from Morland to Arabella briefly paused the festivities, but her acceptance reignited the party’s energy. Dusk bled into night and then early morning as the three retired for a few hours of sleep.

The next morning greeted the party with a peaceful sleepiness. Coada joined Tanson in distributing the ashes of the bonfire to the surrounding farms for good luck in the coming season, while Sumayya and Sethie explored the town, visiting the small shops and bakeries lining the town center. The afternoon passed quietly, and the three retired to their rooms for a proper night of rest.

Rest, however, would not come easily. The party awoke to frantic yelling and movement outside the inn. Rushing outside, they were greeted by the sight of a house ablaze.

“Grab a bucket!” Jenna barked, running toward a well. Other villagers had already begun dousing the fire with whatever they could, hurling buckets of water and earth at the blaze. The three joined in, delivering buckets of water from the nearby well and retrieving empty ones to be refilled. As the townspeople gathered to help, they subdued the flames before the home was reduced to ash.

When the smoke cleared and the town began to disperse, Coada approached Jenna and Armont, who were investigating the remains.

“Perhaps we can aid in this investigation?” Coada asked. “Given my station, I believe it’s my duty to understand what happened and help prevent further loss.”

Jenna hesitated, looking to Armont, who nodded reassuringly. “All yours. I have other matters to attend to. Jenna will assist you, however.”

Jenna grimaced and sighed, raising her hand toward the blackened doorway. “After you, then.”

Coada nodded to Sethie and Sumayya, signaling them to enter. The two obliged, while Coada and Jenna began searching the kitchen and pantry. The smell of damp wood and ash coated every surface.

“Whose house is this?” Coada asked quietly.

Jenna stepped out from the pantry, giving Coada a long, suspicious stare. “Martin and Luella. They haven’t been seen since before the festival.”

Coada froze, recalling Martin’s involvement in the grain theft. “Oh,” she murmured, turning away and continuing to rummage through the kitchen. “I wonder why that may be. Maybe they left town?”

Coada continued digging through the cabinets, the silence in the room thickening. “It was two assailants,” Jenna muttered. She paused, then sharpened her tone. “I need to speak with someone.”

Coada turned to see Jenna storm out of the house, nearly crashing into Sumayya. Sumayya jumped back in surprise, then looked at Coada with mutual confusion.

“Sethie, did you find anything?” Sumayya called out, shaking off her initial surprise.

Silence echoed back. Sumayya looked at Coada with concern as Coada called out,  “Sethie?”

Still, there was no answer. The two rushed to the bedroom, where they found Sethie kneeling by the bed in a trance, her eyes fixed on the spiraling carvings that covered the walls.

“The Wasting...” Sumayya whispered, her heart sinking at the sight.

Coada ran to Sethie’s side, gently shaking her. “Are you okay?”

“What?” Sethie looked around, confused, before shaking her head. “Yeah, I just… I got a bit lost for a second there.” The three of them stared at the carvings in silence.

“People who are afflicted with the Wasting begin to have an urge to write at a certain point,” Sumayya said, trailing off as she looked down at her arms. “They’ll write however they can, even if it means carving into their own flesh.”

“What are they writing, though?” Sethie asked, turning to Sumayya. “This isn’t a language I’ve seen, and it’s such a twisted mess that it’s impossible to tell what belongs where.”

“No one knows for sure,” Sumayya replied, stepping closer to help Sethie to her feet. “It’s similar to the ancient language, but it’s so broken and contorted that it’s hard to decipher.”

Coada stood slowly, her gaze lingering on Sumayya. “You know a lot about this.”

Sumayya hesitated. “I lost someone to this… a long time ago.”

The three stood in silence for a long moment. Coada straightened herself and turned to face the door. “I should speak with Jenna about what we found and make sure the home is destroyed. This is no legacy to leave behind,” she said softly. “I’d welcome your company.”

Sumayya and Sethie exchanged a glance before following Coada into the quiet morning air.

When they entered the small government building, the familiar red-haired halfling woman greeted them.

“Oh, good morning!” she exclaimed. “How can I help you today?”

“We need to speak with the Alf as soon as possible,” Coada urged.

The young woman’s face tightened in restrained panic. “Well, he’s in an appointment right now. Perhaps you should come back later.”

“Please,” Coada continued, “this is extremely important. If Jenna is there, I’d like to speak with her too.”

“I really wouldn’t reco—”

“If there is an issue, I should be aware of it,” Coada hissed.

The woman sighed and lowered her head. “Go on back then, but don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

Coada nodded and began to march toward the mayor’s office, with Sumayya and Sethie close behind.

“And if anyone asks, I tried to stop you!” the halfling woman called after them.

Coada paid her no mind, rounding the corner and pausing before the office door.

“I don’t care who sent her here. I don’t want that beast in my town!” The group heard Jenna arguing through the door. Coada’s anger flared, and she burst through the door. Jenna, Alf, and Armont all tensed.

“If you have an issue with me, you should address me directly,” Coada fumed. “What is this about?”

Jenna glared at her. “This is a private meeting. I would ask you to leave.”

Coada squared her shoulders and stood taller. “It is my understanding that my position supersedes yours, so no, I will not leave. Now…” She cast her hypnotic gaze into Jenna’s eyes. “What is this about?”

Jenna’s resolve weakened as Coada’s magic took hold. “If you are so eager to know, I’m still grappling with the fact that the church sent a war cleric to our town—one who is also a beast at that.” Jenna hesitated. “And in the few days that you’ve been here, two people have gone missing, and their house has burned down.”

Coada’s breath caught in her chest. “You think I had something to do with this? That I, what, killed them?”

Jenna glared. “I didn’t say so directly, but I wouldn’t put it past your nature.”

“That’s not even—” Sethie began to fume before Coada raised her hand to stop her.

“Look,” Coada sighed, gathering her anger. “I want to be here as much as you want me here, but I can’t change my orders.”

“But I can,” Armont affirmed. “I can send orders for a transfer back. I’ll handle the particulars, so everyone can be happy.”

Relief and defeat filled Coada’s heart as she spoke. “If you do this, could you wait a week before sending the notice? It would give me some extra travel time. I’ll leave tomorrow at dawn.”

Jenna glared at Armont, who paid her no mind, before nodding toward Coada and the Alf.

“If you’ll excuse me, I have some documents to prepare.” She said, passing through the back door.

Alf shrank in his chair, glancing nervously at Jenna and then at the party. Silence fell over the room.

“I should be going,” Coada acquiesced. “Alf, it’s been a pleasure.”

Coada turned, briefly forgetting her companions behind her, and paused when she saw them.

“I think I’ve spent enough time here as it is,” Sethie smiled. “Maybe we could travel together on the road back?”

Coada softened, nodding with an affirming smile.

“It’s time I leave too,” Sumayya added, nodding toward Coada.

Sethie grinned. “It’s settled then! Tomorrow morning, we’ll begin our journey home!”

Session 1 - Riverside Town

As the first light of dawn filtered through the cracks in the wooden walls, Sethie was jolted awake by the familiar sound of barking and clanging from the market outside. It was just as it had been for weeks now—an unchanging routine. She rubbed her eyes and gazed at the barren inn wall, feeling the monotony of the past weeks hanging heavy. Though the townsfolk were friendly, the lack of news and excitement made the days blend together.

Sethie had been filling her time helping Arabella with her potions and earning a few coins assisting Luella at her flower booth. It covered her basic needs but left little room for anything else. Luella, an elderly halfling who had been gravely ill for years, was in a steadily worsening condition. Her husband, Martin—a burly dwarf who tended to the stables—appreciated Sethie’s help but could offer only minimal compensation. Despite the boredom, Sethie found solace in the simplicity of village life and the kindness of its people.

She dressed slowly, savoring the leisurely pace that the town embraced. It was a refreshing change from the city's frenetic pace. As she stepped into the courtyard, which doubled as the town’s market, she greeted the usual faces and picked up some pastries for breakfast before setting up at Luella’s booth and waited for the day to begin. An hour passed without any sign of Luella, then two.

Worry began to creep into Sethie’s mind. She spotted Sheriff Jenna, a tall elven woman with flowing blonde hair and a stern demeanor and asked for her to check in on Luella. Jenna reassured her that might simply need rest and advised Sethie to take the day off. Sethie, though still anxious, accepted the advice and headed back to the inn for an early lunch.

Inside, the inn’s familiar ambiance welcomed her. Freya, the half-elf, half-goliath bartender with sun-kissed skin and fiery orange hair, called out from behind the counter. “Ah, Sethie! Ready for lunch?” Her imposing yet graceful presence was something Sethie had admired since their first meeting.

“Yes, please. Thank you!” Sethie replied, making her way to her usual spot at the bar. Her attention was caught by a new patron seated against the wall, swirling a glass of dark wine. The stranger’s long white hair obscured her face, and her pale skin glistened in the sunlight. Intrigued, Sethie approached, noting that high elves rarely mingled with tieflings and cautiously took a seat beside her. The woman turned and nodded hello with a warm but cautious smile, her red eyes flashing against the sun. She had no sign of malice or distrust in her eyes, Sethie relaxed at this sight.

“Hello,” she said cheerfully, extending her hand. “I’m Sethie. You must be new here!”

The woman looked her over, her sharp eyes meeting Sethie’s with an unreadable expression. “I’m Sumayya. I arrived this morning.” Sumayya held her breath for a moment, watching for Sethie’s reaction. 

Freya placed a plate of food in front of Sethie. “Heading to Ysora for the festival, I suppose? That’s the usual traffic we see this time of year. You’re a bit early though. It’s only about a thirteen-day trip from here.”

Sumayya swished her wine thoughtfully. “I’m actually going there for work. I’ve taken a job in the city.”

Sethie’s eyes brightened. “I’m from the city. Maybe I can show you around!”

Sumayya returned the smile. “I’d appreciate that.”

The two continued their light conversation, over their meals.

As the early morning creeped onwards, Coada exhaled deeply, cresting the final hill and seeing the small town of Riverside come into view. After two weeks on the road, the sight of the town was a welcome relief. She yearned for a warm meal and a comfortable rest.

As she approached, she noticed a pair leaving town: a stout dwarf leading a small horse carrying a frail woman bundled tightly in layers. “Good morning,” Coada greeted as she drew near. “Is everything alright?”

The dwarf glanced at her with a mix of curiosity and suspicion. “Everything’s fine. Just heading to the city,” he grumbled, continuing on his way.

Coada fell into step beside them. “I’m a cleric of the church. Perhaps I could offer some assistance?”

The dwarf hesitated before nodding reluctantly. “If you insist. Though I’m not sure what can be done.”

Coada dismounted and approached the woman, her trained eyes assessing the situation. The woman’s pallid, wrinkled skin and glazed eyes spoke of a grave illness. “The Wasting,” the dwarf explained. “We’re hoping for some proper treatment in Ysora.”

“Visit the Healing Church in the Ten Spires,” Coada advised. “They will provide the best care available. Tell them Coada Aba sent you.”

The dwarf’s eyes softened with gratitude. “Thank you. I’m Martin, and this is Luella.”

Coada shook his hand and offered a solemn nod to Luella. “Travel safely. I’ll visit once I’m back in the city.”

Martin nodded and continued on his way with Luella. Coada watched them until they were out of sight before turning her attention to Riverside.

As she entered the town limits, Coada straightened her posture, ensuring her church insignia was prominently displayed. The townsfolk’s wary glances and subtle avoidance made it clear that her presence was unusual. Undeterred, she made her way down the main road to the stables, where the elderly stableman—surprisingly small even for a gnome—took her horse with practiced ease. Coada then headed to the small chapel at the town's center.

The chapel was modest and worn, its simplicity making it resemble a house more than a church, marked only by the inscriptions of the Three Queens on the door. Taking a deep breath, Coada pushed open the door. Inside, a firbolg man with long, loose hair and a deep blue complexion lounged on the altar, puffing lazily on a pipe.

“Welcome!” he greeted with a mixture of suspicion and amusement. “You must be the big city girl they sent.”

Coada’s expression tightened at his casual demeanor as she approached. “I’ve come to assist with the church and serve this town.” She extended her hand. “I’m Coada Alba.”

The firbolg took a leisurely drag from his pipe before shaking her hand. “I’m Tanston. Not sure what help is needed, but you’re welcome to stay. The beds are up in the attic. Get settled and then explore the town.”

Coada climbed the narrow, steep stairs with some difficulty, her armor and tail making the ascent awkward. She dropped her pack in the small, sparsely furnished attic room before heading back downstairs. Tanston remained lounging on the altar, still puffing away. He gave a nod as she passed; she offered no response.

With the sun now higher in the sky, Coada ventured to the market, engaging with shopkeepers and familiarizing herself with the town before heading to the inn to warm up and relax.

As she entered the inn, her gleaming armor drew every eye. She scanned the room, noting the patrons—early drinkers, travelers, and workers on their lunch break. Her gaze met Sethie’s, and a flicker of recognition passed between them. Her attention then shifted to Sethie’s companion, a high elf, which made her stiffen with concern.

Taking a seat at the bar next to the pair, Coada was met with a respectful greeting from Freya, who acknowledged her authority with a curated tone. Sumayya watched with keen interest, noting the tension that followed Coada’s arrival. Yuan-ti were clearly less common here.

Sethie broke the silence with a warm smile. “Just arrived as well? I’m Sethie!”

Coada returned the smile. “Coada. I’ve been sent to assist with the church.”

“Sumayya,” the elf said, nodding in greeting.

Coada was intrigued by Sumayya’s casual demeanor and her apparent connection to Sethie. As Sethie shared her knowledge of the town, Coada regaled them with tales of her travels. Sumayya listened quietly, engaging just enough to absorb all the information.

As time passed, more patrons came and went until Jenna arrived to officially greet the town’s newest priestess. Though her face soured at the sight of Coada, she maintained professionalism. During introductions, they were interrupted by a small halfling woman with fiery hair and large, rounded glasses. She burst in, urgently pulling Jenna aside for a whispered conversation before they both hurried out, leaving an uneasy silence in their wake.

Coada stood, addressing Sethie and Sumayya. “I’m going to see what’s happening. If you’d like to join me, you’re welcome.”

Sethie eagerly agreed, and Sumayya, after a moment’s thought, nodded in agreement. The three headed to the government building, a small but sturdy structure. Inside, the same halfling attended the front desk. “Oh, h-hello! Welcome!” she said with a cheerfully curated tone. “How can I help you?”

Coada spoke first. “There seems to be some alarm. As the new priestess, I’d like to see if we can be of any assistance.”

The halfling examined them briefly. “We did have an incident last night. If you’d like to speak with Jenna, she’s with the Mayor now.” She gestured to a long hall on the right. “Go down this hall and take the first door on your left. Wait there, and they’ll call you in.”

Coada thanked her and led Sethie and Sumayya to the waiting room. From there, they could hear muffled voices in conversation for several minutes until the door opened, revealing a small, exhausted halfling man. “You’re here about the theft, yes?” he asked.

They nodded.

“Good, I’m Alf Sorver,” he said, opening the door wider. “Mayor, come on in.”

The party entered a small office. Sumayya and Sethie took the two available seats while Coada remained in the doorway. Alf sat behind his desk. Beside him, Jenna stood with a dark-skinned woman in Lauthrian armor, and in the corner, a stout dwarf leaned back, puffing on a pipe.

Alf addressed Coada. “I understand you’re the new priestess from the capital church. Welcome.” He turned to the others. “And I assume you two are here for a potential reward?”

Sethie spoke up. “No, I’ve been here for a few weeks. I just want to help!”

Sumayya scanned the room, her eyes revealing a hint of calculation. “I just arrived this morning, but I’d be interested in any rewards.”

Alf nodded. “We had a major theft last night—the entire cash of the king’s share of our crops was stolen. With the king’s collectors due soon, we’re offering a substantial reward for the return of these goods. If you’re interested, Jenna can show you the scene.”

The three exchanged looks and agreed. Alf sighed in relief. “Good. Jenna will take you to the storage building.”

Jenna led them to a large storage building and silently unchained the door. While there was no visible damage, faint wagon tracks led north into the woods, barely noticeable in the dusty courtyard. “Was there any damage to the lock?” Sumayya asked.

Jenna shook her head. “Nope, the door was locked just as it should have been. We didn’t realize the theft until we checked.”

The storage room had been picked clean. Coada surveyed the area. “Who has access to this building?”

“Myself, Captain Armont Leval, Leonard Swiftfoot the stablemaster, and Erie Wusernind. Why? Are you suggesting it was one of us?” Jenna’s brow furrowed.

Coada remained focused. “It’s possible. We’ll need to question everyone. The stablemaster and Erie manage the grain and horses, so they have reason to be here. But their keys were accounted for.”

The group fell silent. “Well,” Jenna said, gesturing toward the door, “if that’s all, I need to get back to work.”

They bid Jenna farewell and returned to the inn to discuss their findings. Sumayya remained quiet, contemplating what she had seen the prior night. Coada drew her from her contemplation. “We should follow the trail north and see where it leads.”

Sethie and Sumayya nodded in agreement, and the trio ventured into the sparse woods. Coada tracked the trail for about an hour before it began to fade, leading them to a small clearing. There, a dwarven man—whom Sumayya recognized as the one who had ferried her in the previous night—emerged. “Best turn back now, nothing for you here,” he warned, training his bow on them and mouthing “traitor” at Sumayya.

The group held their ground. Coada growled at the dwarf, just as a dart flew past her, missing them by inches, signaling the start of a skirmish. Sumayya vanished into the shadows, spotting the robed woman she had seen earlier and dashing towards the hideout.

Coada charged the dwarf, while Sethie threw a dagger. The dwarf dodged and swung at Coada, narrowly missing. As Coada and Sethie pressed the attack, Sumayya pursued the woman, just too late to catch her as she slipped into the hideout.

Coada and Sethie’s assault left the dwarf barely standing as Coad grappled the man, coiling her tail around him, and pinning him to a tree. “Where’s the grain?” she demanded, her voice a low growl.

The dwarf spat defiantly at her. “You’ll get nothing from me.”

Her tail tightened around his neck until his face turned blue and he lost consciousness. Coada released him and turned to join Sumayya, who signaled towards the hideout. The three pressed forward, flinging open the door as Coada charged down the stairs, she was hunting now.

Coada descended the stone steps with urgency, as Sumayya and Sethie followed closely behind. At the bottom, Coada halted abruptly. Before her stood a modest chamber furnished with benches, a desk, and a bookshelf. Seated casually at the desk was Morland, a man with an untroubled demeanor and an affable smile. The robed woman was nowhere to be seen.

“Quite the dramatic entrance,” Morland observed, his voice laced with an insincere warmth. He inclined his head towards Sumayya. “Hello again. Your friends left hours ago… What brings you here?”

Coada's voice cut through the air. “You stole from the town to the south. We’re here to collect what’s theirs.”

Morland reclined in his chair, considering her words with a casual air. “I don’t think that will be happening,” he replied with a nonchalant grin.

Sumayya stepped forward, grimacing as she loomed over Morland. Her gaze was fierce, her fangs subtly revealed. “You understand the importance of keeping this place off the map,” she said, her voice low and dangerous. “A theft like this will attract unwanted attention. We both know that’s something neither of us desire.”

Morland’s expression hardened as he assessed her. After a moment’s contemplation, he activated a hidden switch beneath the desk. The bookshelf slid aside, revealing a concealed passage. “Looks like no scuffles tonight,” he announced, gesturing to the shadows of at least six figures emerging from the corridor. “Fetch the grain and load it onto the cart. This matter’s no longer worth our trouble.” He then gestured to the benches. “If you’d be so kind as to wait here, this will take some time.”

Sumayya exchanged a glance with her companions before leading them to the benches. They settled in as bags of grain and dried meats were methodically transported out of the hideout, each member of the crew casting them wary glances. The process was slow.

When the last bag was finally loaded and the final member—a burly, hooded figure—had nodded to Morland before disappearing into the depths of the hideout, Morland turned to the trio. “That’s settled then. I trust you’ll uphold your end of the bargain, Sumayya. Keep our location discreet.”

Sumayya nodded, and the group departed, setting off with the cart toward Riverside Town.

The sun had long dipped below the horizon by the time they returned. Captain Armont, upon receiving the cart, dispensed their reward. The party then retreated to the inn, eager to unravel the mystery of who might have aided in the theft. As they dined and drank, patrons came and went, their conversations barely registering over the clamor.

They questioned a few townsfolk including Erie with little success until Ruby, the baker with auburn hair and dark green eyes, joined them, her concern for Sethie evident. “Now that Luella has left town, will you be managing the flower shop?” she inquired.

Sethie’s face went pale. “Luella left? I didn’t know she’d gone… in that condition?”

Ruby nodded solemnly. “Yes. Martin came into some money apparently and took her to Ysora for better treatment.”

Coada’s eyes narrowed. “And where does Martin work?”

Ruby hesitated, taken aback by Coada’s intensity. “The stables. Why do you ask?”

Understanding dawned on the trio. “Thank you,” Coada said, her tone clipped. “We need to discuss this in private.”

Sethie offered her room, leading them away from the bustling restaurant.

Once in the quiet of Sethie’s room, the gravity of the situation settled over them. Sumayya and Sethie sat in silence as Coada spoke, her voice heavy with concern. “If we tell them Martin is responsible, it will destroy their peace and leave Luella without her husband.”

They pondered the implications before Sumayya offered a solution. “We’ve retrieved the grain—that was the main objective. We can tell them the culprits were dealt with in the woods.”

Sethie and Coada nodded in agreement. “I’ll inform them tomorrow,” Coada said softly. “For now, we should rest.”

The trio parted ways to their rooms, to the promise of rest from the long eventful day.

Session 0 - The Red-Eyed Elf

Artwork by HungrydamyArt

Three months… three long, tedious months of ocean air and stagnant company. Sumayya had grown familiar with the sea, but she had yet to find any sense of comfort in it. Her only consolation was the reward that awaited her. Fifteen years of training and grunt work had led to this moment; she was finally going on a real mission and would soon see the Lauthrian Empire in all its glory. That was still some time away though, and she needed to stay focused.

Her companions were an eclectic group, sailing from Castlevale, each for their own purposes. Sumayya had been sent with two others, likely some of many who had made this journey over the years. Her mission was clear: become a part of this society, observe, and report. Should they need her, she should be ready. Simple enough. She had been specifically selected for her elven features and magical inclination—traits many of her compatriots lacked. The Lauthrian Empire was an elven kingdom after all, so she should fit in well. Aside from her orders, she would be left to her own devices, allowing her the freedom to research and learn about the kingdom and its leaders.

Her compatriots did not share their orders, and she expected as much. Three months of quiet dinners had yielded little more than their names. Demaris was a tall human woman with light olive skin, raven hair, and brown eyes. She carried herself with the grace of a dancer, but there was danger in her eyes, a quality Sumayya found some comfort in. Arvelan was even quieter than Demaris. Sumayya estimated he spoke only three times throughout the entire journey. He was tall and lean, with dark hair and sharp, dark eyes. Though human, he carried himself with the delicacy and intent of an elf. The rest of the crew and travelers largely kept to themselves, understanding the nature of their journey.

The past few days had been the longest. They could see land for some time now but had been traveling along the shore towards their destination. Freedom from this ship was so close, and the excitement was palpable. Sumayya had returned to her bunk one last time, swishing her flask back and forth, almost empty. Thankfully, she only had to wait a few more hours before she could resupply and hunt again.

As the sun set, Demaris came to Sumayya’s room, knocked on the door, and gestured toward the deck with a nod. Sumayya gathered her bags and followed her up. The sun was setting as the travelers loaded into a small lifeboat. Silently, the crew rowed towards the shore, where they met a bulky dwarven man with a scarred face on a riverboat who took them inland.

Not much was said as the dwarven man snuffed out the lanterns and slowly navigated through the town. Sumayya held her breath as they watched the town’s glow fade behind them, continuing up the river. Another hour passed before they made landfall.

The boat drifted gently onto the shore where three cloaked figures stood with dimmed lanterns. Without a word, the group disembarked and traveled into the forest. They walked for some time down a twisted, not-quite-trail before reaching a small hatch hidden beneath some shrubs. Two of the cloaked figures lifted the hatch to reveal a small stairwell leading down. Sumayya went last to ensure they weren’t followed. As the group descended the stairs, they found themselves in a waiting room of sorts. Long benches lined one wall, while a bookshelf and desk sat along another beside a long hallway.

A man sat at the desk, his sharp but elegant features, dark eyes, and expertly groomed hair and beard giving him an air of authority. “Welcome, friends!” he said with a smile. “We’ve been expecting you!”

Silence filled the room before Eoulak, a purple tiefling man who had been traveling with them, spoke up. “Yes, hello! I trust everything has been well, and I hope our arrangements have been made— you see…”

Sumayya’s attention wandered. Eoulak had spoken enough for the entire crew on their journeys and had been insistent on courting her for three long months. As the two spoke back and forth about seemingly nothing, she began to inspect the room. A large bookshelf filled with what seemed like nonsense—likely more for show than function. The desk was well used, with shipping logs and various transcripts tucked behind the man sitting at it, but not much else adorned the room.

It wasn’t long before the man’s patience began to wane, though he maintained his welcoming demeanor. “Well now,” he cut Eoulak off mid-sentence, “I am so very happy that you had such an exciting journey. However, I am sure you would all like some proper rest. Afren here will show you to your rooms. If you need anything at all, I am Morland, and I am happy to be of service. Until then, rest well.”

He gestured to the door where a lean woman in light robes began to lead them back. A palpable sigh of relief escaped the group. Once in her room, Sumayya threw down her pack and fell onto the bed. She was finally here. After all these years, before she could rest, however, she needed food and fast. She hadn't had anything fresh in months. 

Sumayya rose from her bed and pressed her ear against the door, waiting a long while until she was sure everyone was asleep before slipping out into the darkened hall. She went to the kitchen first, to her fortune there was a fresh caught boar, still in the process of being cleaned. She took her time eating, it was the best thing she had consumed in months. 

After about an hour Sumayya felt sated. With a refreshed energy she made her way back towards her room. As she rounded the corner to the main hall she ran into the dwarf that led them in. He blocked the doorway, “Best you head back to your bunk now,” he said gesturing to a door on the left wall behind her, that will also lead you back. 

She looked at him suspiciously and scanned the men behind him carrying on what looked to be a large shipment. 

“So sorry, I must've gotten turned around,” she turned, glancing back at the dwarf who remained in the doorway before making her way to her room and finding much needed rest.

Session 0 - The Serpent Cleric

Artwork by HungrydamyArt

The letter arrived late last night, while Coada was at the orphanage. She had been busy helping Ovar with dinner and the children’s lessons. By the time she returned to her dorm, the sun had long set, and the biting cold of the evening air cut through her layers. Retha, who had stayed up waiting for her, noticed Coada’s weariness and chose to let her rest, it could wait until morning.

As dawn broke, Coada spent the first hour dressing, layering her armor with extra fabric to fend off the unrelenting chill. The cold seemed to seep into her very bones, a harsh reminder of her Yuan-Ti heritage. While she struggled with her armor, she heard Retha’s soft, measured footsteps approaching—an ironic echo of her elven grace, now marred by the limp of an old injury. “Coada, we need to talk,” Retha said, her tone stern but gentle as she gestured for Coada to sit.

Coada sank onto the edge of her bed, her gaze fixed on the letter Retha handed her, sealed with the high priest’s stamp. “Orders,” Retha said simply.

With a cautious breath, Coada broke the seal and unfolded the letter. Retha’s eyes were fixed on her with a somber intensity.

Reassignment Orders

Coada Alba - Cleric of House Arcea - 25 Aeg 1529

Report to the Ten Spire Stables by noon tomorrow to retrieve a horse and supplies. You are to report to Riverside Town in thirteen days for a new position as chapel assistant.

Order approved,

Brosvis Moltenlash, High Priest

“They’re sending me away?” Coada’s voice was barely a whisper, her eyes glued to the page.

“It seems so,” Retha replied, her hand resting lightly on Coada’s shoulder. “We don’t know for how long. Wora will be coming by to help you pack and say goodbye. I can notify Ovar if you’d like.”

“No. I need to say goodbye myself,” Coada said, determination in her voice. She wrapped herself in a thick cloak and moved out into the biting cold. Her frustration was evident as she navigated through the busy streets towards the North Corner. Why was she being sent away? Had her success as a “beast” threatened someone? And with Remuth now vying for Wora’s attention, was that the real reason behind her reassignment? Her jaw clenched. It wasn’t fair.

Turning the familiar corner, she passed the old wall of the orphanage, where Ram and Nise played on the doorstep. Their faces brightened upon seeing her. Coada’s stern expression softened into a gentle smile as she greeted them. Inside, Ovar was tidying up after breakfast.

“Well, good morning!” Ovar called, poking his head out from the kitchen. “Just finishing up.” Coada took a seat at the dining table, waiting for the clatter of pots and pans to cease.

A flash of dark green caught her eye. Setil, a young Yuan-Ti girl with long, dark hair and yellow eyes, peeked around the corner. “Good morning, Setil. How are you today?” Coada asked.

Setil shuffled into the room, wrapped in blankets. “Come here,” Coada said, pulling her into a warm embrace. “It’s cold for us, isn’t it?”

Setil nodded, snuggling closer. “There,” Coada said, settling her on her lap. Ovar emerged from the kitchen, his tousled brown hair and light green eyes at odds with his priestly duties.

“You should have come earlier; Setil actually finished a whole plate of breakfast today!” Ovar chuckled, but Coada remained silent.

Ovar’s smile faded as he assessed her. “Setil, could you gather Ram and Nise and start preparing for your lessons? And make sure Vitrene finishes cleaning her room?”

Setil nodded, hugging Coada tightly before fetching the others. Ovar sat across from Coada, his expression growing serious. “So, I take it you didn’t come here just for my cooking. What’s wrong?”

“I received reassignment orders. I’m being sent to Riverside Town,” Coada said, her voice strained.

Ovar’s eyes widened in surprise. “When do you leave?”

“Today,” she replied with a forced laugh.

“Today? That’s... quite sudden. When do you think you’ll return?”

“I’m not sure.” Her chest tightened. “I’m convinced this is all Remuth’s doing. He’s always resented me, and now that he’s after Wora, he wants me out of the way.”

They sat in a contemplative silence. “Do you want to say goodbye to the kids?” Ovar asked, nodding towards the stairwell.

Coada nodded and stood. As she reached the top of the stairs, she saw Ram standing by his door, his face set in a scowl. She called out, but he merely stomped away, slamming the door behind him. Coada sighed and approached his room, knocking softly.

Inside, Ram sat on the bed, his head bowed. “You’re leaving us, aren’t you?” he mumbled.

Coada sat beside him. “I am, but only for a little while. I’ll be back before you know it. While I’m gone, I need you to look after everyone, especially Setil and Nise. You have to be the big brother, okay? Ovar can’t do it all alone.”

Ram leaned into her side. “I don’t want you to leave.”

“I know,” Coada said, wrapping him in a comforting embrace. “But I promise I’ll return soon.”

He hugged her tightly, and whispered, “Okay.”

After a long moment, Coada left to find the others, who were gathered in Vitrene’s room. She knocked gently on the doorframe and entered. The girls looked up with excited smiles. “Coada!” Nise called out. “Are you staying over today?”

Coada laughed softly as she gathered them in a big hug. “I love you all so much. I hope you know that.” She whispered.

“We’ll miss you,” one of the girls said quietly.

“I’ll be gone for a little while, but not long. I’ll come back with gifts and stories. You have to promise me you’ll look after each other and keep Ram out of trouble. Let Ovar know if you need anything.”

As she turned to leave, she heard them quietly following her to the top of the stairs. Ovar waited at the bottom. He pulled her into a long hug. “Take care of yourself,” he whispered. “And don’t freeze out there. Get warmer clothes before you go.”

Coada returned the embrace. “Thank you,” she said, then headed back to her dorms.

Wora was waiting for her there, her dark olive skin glowing in the morning light. Her long curls were pulled into a tight bun, and she tried to mask her worry with a smile. She pulled Coada into a tight hug. “I’m so sorry. This isn’t fair.”

“It is what it is,” Coada replied, trying to sound resigned. “I shouldn’t have expected anything else.”

Wora’s face flushed with anger. “That doesn’t make it any better. You’ve done everything right. You’re more qualified than anyone here to be a priestess of Arcea, and yet they send you away because of what you are. It’s ridiculous.” She began packing with a sense of urgency.

Coada joined her in packing. “It won’t be long, and I’ll visit as often as I can.”

Wora’s anger softened. “Besides, with me picking up your duties, I’ll be even busier. And Remuth doesn’t like me like that—he’s just friendly.”

“To you,” Coada mumbled with a smirk.

Wora stopped, her eyes filling with tears. Coada froze. “I don’t want to lose my best friend. I don’t want to be alone again.”

Coada pulled her into a comforting hug as Wora began to cry. “It won’t be long. I promise I’ll come back as soon as I can.”

“You don’t know that,” Wora said, wiping her tears. “But I’ll make sure you come back as soon as possible!”

Coada laughed softly, and Wora’s expression softened. They finished packing together, sharing a final, poignant moment.

By eleven, Retha arrived. Wora hugged Coada one last time before returning to her duties. Retha led Coada to the stables, where they prepared her horse. Before Coada mounted, Retha gave her a final hug. “Don’t be a stranger,” she whispered.

Coada mounted her horse and set off for Riverside Town.

Session 0 - The Pink Tiefling

Artwork by HungrydamyArt

It was a chilly morning, and the old wooden walls did little to stave off the biting fall air that filled the room. In the kitchen, a pot gently shifted on the stove, and the aroma of breakfast began to waft through the air. Sethie took her time, letting out a long yawn and stretching her legs and arms before rolling to the edge of the bed. Zhera was already awake, silently reading in her bed. Her long burgundy hair was a tangled mess from sleep and pulled loosely back around her horns. As Sethie stirred, Zhera closed her book and signed a quick “Morning.”

Sethie nodded sleepily and asked, “Are we still going to the market today?” Zhera’s face brightened with a smile as she jumped up and began dressing for the day. Sethie followed suit, slowly preparing herself. As Zhera gathered their belongings, Sethie began to fix Zhera’s hair and then her own. “You need to take better care of your hair, Zhera,” Sethie signed. “It gets so tangled at this length.”

Zhera shook her head in response. “It’s not that important, ” she signed. “People won’t like us either way. It doesn’t matter if I look like a mess.”

Sethie’s chest tightened as she twisted her own hair back around her horns. Zhera wasn’t wrong. Tieflings weren’t exactly welcomed here, but it still hurt to see her little sister forced to grow up with such an understanding. Ysora was supposed to be a city of opportunity, but that only applied to those who “looked” the part—and they definitely did not.

A gentle knock on the door pulled Sethie from her thoughts. Their mother, Orianna, stood in the doorway, her long bluish hair pulled into a tight bun and her azure skin almost glowing in the morning sun. She was already dressed for the day and holding two plates of breakfast. “I hope you’ll join me for breakfast before your adventures,” she said, surveying the two suspiciously. “And I hope your adventures won’t be too troublesome.”

Sethie shook her head and looked at Zhera. “Just some street performances. Nothing to worry about…” She smiled and looked back at her mother. “We’ll be back by lunch!” There was a long pause before Sethie leaped to her feet, took the plates, and led them to the table. 

“It’s fine, Mom.” She stared down at the modest meal, before looking back up at her mother with a soft smile, “Let’s eat.”

Not much was said after that. Breakfast was finished, and the two quickly cleaned up while Orianna went downstairs to open the shop for the day. It was a quaint apothecary; Orianna grew everything herself and taught herself most of the recipes. It wasn’t much, but it was home. After a few moments, Sethie and Zhera emerged from the stairwell, said their goodbyes, and set off.

Fall in Ysora was unmistakable. The air was clear, and the sun shone brightly, but a bitter breeze shattered any illusion of warmth. Sethie led the way through the tightly wound streets of the North Corner, past the bustle of laborers heading to their daily tasks, and down the main thoroughfare into Town Center. They weren’t technically supposed to be here, they both knew as much, but most travelers passed through this area, and the average folk were more likely to spare some change in this part of the city if they were feeling generous. After surveying the Grande Fountain, Sethie spotted a corner of the fountain across from a small café—busy despite the cold—and out of direct sight of the city watch.

Cautiously, she took up a position on the fountain wall and began setting up, laying out a basket for donations before tuning her harp. Zhera took her cue and began to weave through the crowd and the nearby café, checking for potential marks. When she was satisfied, she gave Sethie the signal, and Sethie began to sing. Her voice danced through the crowd like magic, drawing people in. Each strum of the harp captured the attention of another passerby. The world began to fade away; this was her calling, her peace, her home, and it had never felt so right as it did in that moment.

As Sethie sang and danced, she caught sight of Zhera expertly slipping into the pockets of each mark before moving to the next. Gold, silver, trinkets—it didn’t matter so long as it could be sold or traded. They had done this a hundred times; it was becoming second nature. A few more marks, and Zhera would send the signal and slip back into the crowd. Sethie would end her performance and be halfway home before anyone noticed what had happened.

Zhera snaked forward, bumping into an older halfling man and stealthily taking his coin purse while helping him regain his balance. Next, she approached an elegantly dressed elven man, fully enraptured by Sethie’s performance. Zhera brushed against him, moving closer to the front of the crowd. Her fingers slipped into his pocket, and as she withdrew with the purse, a firm hand clamped onto her wrist. A lapse in focus was all it took. The man shouted, shattering the crowd's focus. “Thief!” he cried out as Zhera broke free and looked up at Sethie, signaling to run.

Sethie grabbed the basket, scattering some of the gold pieces across the ground, and bolted toward a nearby alley. She could see Zhera through the crowd, heading north, slightly away from her, with guards closing in on both of them. Then, she lost sight of her, pushing into the dark alley, scrambling over boxes, and shoving past a shop owner who was unloading crates. The guards were close behind.

She shot left, then right, left again, trying to lose them in the maze of the city. She turned another corner, almost crashing into someone rounding it, catching herself before moving forward, winding farther north. She reached the old wall and, with the guards still close behind, scrambled up and over. A few more blocks, and she’d reach the Hillfoot District, where they knew better than to follow.

Another right, then a left; the alley gave way to a wider street and a small bridge. She dashed across, pushing through the crowd before disappearing into the next alley. She was sure she had lost them but kept running for a while longer before taking the long way back home. It was almost noon now, and their mother would be expecting them. Sethie waited in the alley behind their house for Zhera to arrive—30 minutes, 45, 1 hour, 2 hours. Still no sign of her. Sethie knew their mother would be worried by now; she had to go in, without Zhera.

She hung her head low as she made her way out of the alley and into the shop. The door was already locked—a bad sign. She sighed as she pulled out her keys. Quietly, Sethie entered and made her way deeper into the shop. Her mother stood at the top of the stairs, arms crossed, and as red-faced as her blue skin could be. “You know, apparently two tiefling girls were caught stealing at the city center today…” Orianna fumed. “One of them got away. They are still looking for a younger woman with pink hair. Wouldn’t know anything about it, would you?”

Before Sethie could respond, she continued, “I told you, again and again, to stop this nonsense and not get your sister involved. She has it hard enough as it is. I do so much to try to keep you both safe, and what do you do? Get your sister arrested. How much coin did you even make? Was it worth it, because now they are looking for you!”

Sethie was silent. It wasn’t supposed to happen, and it should've been her that got caught. Orianna continued, “Well?”

“I don’t know what to say,” Sethie barked back.

“Well, I guess that’s that then,” Orianna said, tossing a coin purse onto the table. “Pack your things. I can’t have both my daughters in jail.”

Sethie froze, looking up in confusion, seeing the tears in her mother’s eyes for the first time. Orianna looked away and began to pack some food. “Gnash is going to help you get out of town. There’s a caravan going south tonight; it’s passing through Riverside Town. It’s quiet and far enough out of the city. Stay there until I tell you it’s safe to return.” She turned back and handed Sethie a small, faintly glowing stone. “If you need to reach me, use this.” Her voice cracked as she pulled Sethie into a hug.

The two quietly packed Sethie’s belongings and made their way to the door. Orianna pulled her in for another hug. “Meet Gnash at his office, and he will handle the rest.” Orianna paused for a long moment. “I love you. Please be safe. I’ll handle everything here.”

Sethie pulled her in for a long hug before heading off into the night.

Introduction

Welcome to Lauthrious, a land where magic and burgeoning science intertwine. Our story begins on the continent of Astoria in the tranquil village of Riverside Town, where three unlikely companions are drawn together on a quest to unravel ancient mysteries and find a cure for the spreading affliction known as the Wasting. Their journey promises to be full of twists and turns, with only time revealing the path ahead.

Embark on this adventure with us as we follow these heroes in their quest and exploration of the world. New posts will be released weekly, following each D&D session. We’ll start with each player’s session zero and continue through their evolving story. I hope you find as much enjoyment in their adventure as I do!