Cleaned notes. Please excuse [[]] and any typos. If you would like anything changed or removed, please LMK!

For various reasons of our own, we decide to head down to the docs. As we do, a ship starts to come across the horizon, waving a crest that we haven't seen before. The sails are black and red with dragons and swords.

A Drakonan man in white and gold robes exits the docked ship, a Katari and an oversized Simiah following close behind. The Drakona looks around at the dock, full of fishermen and tradesmen. He shouts, "Is anyone here brave enough to step into the arenas of [[Kradonia]]? If you believe you are, step forward."

[[Sole'anni]] steps out from the thoroughfare, questioning, "Excuse me, sir, what are you referring to?"

"[[Kradonia]], at this time, has a great tournament arc. We dock at various cities around the globe to recruit people to join in the pits. If you survive, there will be rewards."

[[Zarah]], having seen the large ship doc while talking with some vendors, shouts, "That sounds like a lot of fun! I'll join too."

As we all step forward, this is what we see:

- [[Sole'anni]], a light brown-skinned man with no hair and silver eyes. He wears clean, white robes, akin to an average monk. His face looks peaceful and insightful. Like he's observing the world, though it is hard to read what his emotions are.

- [[Zarah]] is a shorter, human woman. With bright purple hair, thick makeup, and a ditzy expression, she seems quite innocent. She carries no weapons, but a large briefcase.

- [[Infernnus]] looks like an average Infernis man. Slim, toned build with purple skin and slicked back black hair. His horns frame his neutral expression. His clothes look rugged with ranger-like accessories strapped around his body. He likes to observe more than speak. A certified lurker.

- [[Rondell]] is an orange-furred Katari, with a more feline-esque face. Wrapped in some basic leather armor, he travels light as a wanderer. On his wrist are bulky Hand Runes, and a big fluffy tail curls behind him!

- [[Aureate]] is a hairless Katari woman with wrinkled brown skin. Along with rich white robes, she wears lots of gold jewelry. She was just in the middle of a market scam as a fortune teller when she spotted the Drakona. She will approach the new figures eventually, carrying her sword and shield.

As we step forward. The Drakona steps aside and waves his arm, guiding us onto the ship. The large Simiah figure helps us the rest of the way with a, "Roit this way!" As we board, the wood creeks and the waves rock the boat. The Draokna, happy with his selection, mutters, "This was a good stop." They turn the sails and bring up the anchor. He turns to us, "Ever been on a ship before?"

"Yes, I joined a lovely ship wedding a few weeks ago!" chirps [[Zarah]]. "Nothing to this size." [[Sole'anni]] remarks. Drakona tells us that, 'if you get sick on the deck, you're cleaning it.' Cheekily, [[Aureate]] mutters, "No promises."

The journey will be about 7-8 hours, given that the winds are on our side.

[[Zarah]] will open up her briefcase, reaching far down into her briefcase. She haphazardly pulls things out. Her broom, a basket of leaves, and some miscellaneous potions start to roll away. [[Aureate]] and [[Sole'anni]] help her collect anything about to fall off the edge. She pulls out her Charging Quiver and gives it to [[Infernnus]]. "What do I owe you?" he questions. "Oh, nothing! I've been meaning to find someone who can use it. Yay!"

Since the ship is headed towards an arena and the crew looks equipped for combat, [[Aureate]] looks for training dummies. Below deck, she will practice her skills for the upcoming mission.

[[Rondell]] looks for some sailor recreational activities to pass the time. Some people at the stern (rear) seem to be causing quite the ruckus. A Simiah, Katari, and a Dwarf are rolling some dice, the dwarf turning a bit red at his luck. "Good sailors, mind if I join in?" "Have some dice? Never come prepared, these new people. That will be a handful of gold to join in," huffs the Dwarven man. "Alright, too easy." [[Rondell]] says with overconfidence.

The person with the highest D20

- Dwarf, 16 "Bet you can't beat that, can you?"

- Simiah, 8 "I hate this dang game!"

- Katari, 6 "I knew I shouldn't have been playing with you lot."

- [[Rondell]], 12

The dwarf jumps, the table falling, and shouts in pride, "Rahhh, give me your gold laddies!"

[[Infernnus]] looks for a place to sit, so as not be in anyone's way. He sits on the deck to enjoy the ocean's view. When, suddenly, one of the lookouts blows a horn. Pointing starboard, they shout, "Captain! Another ship!" More horns are rung in alarm. "All hands on deck! Prepare!"

[[Rondell]] yells, "Is this part of the gladiator games?" NO!

Ropes unfurl as the crew drop down on the deck, they bring out their crossbows.

[[Aureate]] rushes up from below. First of curiosity, second of necessity. She draws her sword and shield. Protecting herself or others? We'll see.

The ship starts to close in as we get ready. Simiah, Orcs, many people of all kind sappear on the other ship. As it gets closer, it turns, and they swing bridges across.

With a loud thud, two pirates and a Simian captain drop on deck. They come charging at us!

## Combat Start: Pirates!

[[Sole'anni]] aims at one of the lackies, bolt beacon to his face. He draws his hands inwards and shoots a light beam that pulses on his chest with a flash of light. The radiance stuns him, and he stumbles, shaking his head. "Is this what you were expecting?" [[Sole'anni]] gloats.

One of the pirate underlings charges at [[Sole'anni]], raising his sharpened cutlas. It swings wide, and the nibble monk ducks,

The pirate captain takes the opportunity to charge forward, taking his blade towards [[Aureate]]. Noticing her shield, she shouts, "I'm going for her!" Though he is overconfident in his strength, she raises her shield. With a TING, she blocks just in time.

[[Infernnus]], noticing the three new people on board, grabs his bow. Pulling the arrow, his balance is knocked off course due to a wave crashing into the ship at the same time. It flies over their heads and out to sea.

The pirate captain continues to strike against [[Aureate]]. He charges and attacks [[Rondell]] with a large swing of his sword, but misses. [[Rondell]] expertly backflips out of the way, "That's the last mistake you'll ever make," he says with a grimace.

One of the pirate underlings attacks [[Infernnus]] with his massive fist! [[Sole'anni]] stretches his hand and, with a burst of magical prayer light, blocks some of the impact. [[Infernnus]] uses the distraction and twists to the side just in time.

[[Rondell]] attempts to unleash chaos, using focus to split his spell at the underlings. Though with his split focus, the lightning-like fire from his hands misses its target... sheepish that his epic one-liner didn't lead to anything.

The pirate captain again targets [[Aureate]], frustrated with his lack of momentum. Again, her shield covers her from his sharp blade. "Men, no quarter!" he shouts, and all three group up and stand ready.

[[Zarah]] tosses her rune ward to [[Aureate]] for some extra protection. Focusing, she draws closer to the pirate, dragging her hands on the floor. She pulls the air, attempting to drag the shadows from them... but nothing happens... Her Shadow Bind doesn't connect.

They look at [[Infernnus]], shouting, "This is your end, you will sink to the bottom of Davey Jones ' locker today!" Through the chaos, [[Infernnus]] is left terrified. 'Are you talking to me?' he wonders, as their curses cause him to take stress.

[[Aureate]] activates her Crimson Rite to enchant her sword. She channels her vitality into the weapon. The sword starts to glow with golden red veins. Despite all the focus from the pirate captain, she draws upon all the wounds she's taken from him and gives them back to him. With their focus on [[Infernnus]], she sneaks up behind and takes a big old slice across his back. He lets out a yell in pain!

"Men, volley!" Our captain yells. The crossbows lock in, bolts come flying down, pincushioning each pirate.

[[Sole'anni]] running towards [[Infernnus]], "Shoot an arrow!" he calls out. "I'm ready!" he nods. As [[Infernnus]] fires his arrow, [[Sole'anni]] grabs it with his light whip, swinging it around to hit two of them. The whip drags the arrow through the side of one and sticks into the neck of the other, dropping him. And with that, [[Sole'anni]] lands on a platform of light hovering above [[Infernnus]]'s head. "I told you, it wouldn't be so easy for you," he quips.

The captain's face twists in rage, seeing his fallen soldier.

[[Zarah]] twists her broom, bristles forward, at the pirate captain. Each bristle erupts in sparkly green energy and snakes its way, blasting his chest. He looks severely injured, with an imprint of the sparkles on his front.

its

The captain, seeing [[Sole'anni]] take out his men but out of range, swings towards [[Infernnus]]. [[Sole'anni]] uses his light whip to wrap around his dominant hand, preventing the hit.

The other pirate charges towards [[Zarah]], his large fist trying to smash her. Two giant fists pummel her shoulder and neck as her legs wobble from the weight.

[[Rondell]], seeing he's not the target of attention, slinks behind the pirate captain. Sparking up his Hand Runes. Though the energy doesn't connect, he takes a swing. [[Rondell]] just hop-skips away.

[[Aureate]] targets the pirate captain, taking her broadsword to backstab him. She shimmies her blade between his ribs. With a loud crunch, his eyes go glassy as he turns to see her grinning face. With his last breath, he collapses to the ground. Dead.

"Canons, fire!!" Our crew targets the other ship. Taking it down, easily. The last pirate, seeing his crew get wiped out should "I yield, I do not wish to see Davey Jones ' today." He drops his weapon to the floor, hands above his head.

[[Zarah]] happily grabs some excess ribbon and ties his arms and torso to the main mast. For the next couple of hours, she uses some new makeup she's been making. He is not happy. "Don't frown, it'll smudge the makeup."

Downtime:

- [[Aureate]] will tend to her wounds and armor, giving the ruin ward back

- [[Rondell]] will blow off some steam, trying to clear some stress and prepare with [[Sole'anni]]

- [[Infernnus]] clears stress and armor

- [[Sole'anni]] prepares some hope

- [[Zarah]] will clear her hit points and helps to repair [[Infernnus]]'s armor

As our travel comes to an end, the shadow of land grows closer. A larger city whose walls are covered in statues and decorative carving, "Welcome to [[Kradonia]]."

The last pirate cries, "Let me down!" He has a full beat and extra plump lips from a new technique [[Zarah]]'s been working on. You simply take any local crab and have it pinch your desired area for a temporary enlargening effect.

The ship's anchor drops. "Come this way," he calls, as we're ushered to a large colosseum. We can hear the sounds of fighting and cheers. They grow louder as we approach. An announcer yells, signaling the end of the previous round. "We have our winners! Now, everyone, get ready for our next fight. From [[Dawngate]], five brave fighters will take on the former champions."

[[Aureate]] is mentally preparing herself, flexing her claws. "We're ready, we can do this." [[Rondell]] cheers, "We got this! Too easy."

The crowd cheers as the captain introduces us. "These are our contestants. [[Rondell]], [[Aureate]], [[Infernnus]], [[Sole'anni]], and [[Zarah]]." We all bow/curtsy to the crowd. [[Sole'anni]] giving a namaste.

[[Aureate]] grins, "This will be easy."

Across the pit, another gate opens. Walking from the shadows is a giant man and a massive bear. The gates behind us close, leaving just the seven of us staring at each other. "We have seen many battles today, but this will be the finale! Everyone, get ready." The crowd cheers, and a horn blows.

- The champion is a giant with three eyes

- The bear has sharpened claws and teeth

- Giant (16), bear (14)

- It's daytime, arena like a colosseum with dirt/sand pits

- The arena is far-ranged and is open on top

## Combat Start: The Tournament

[[Aureate]] channels her vitality into her sword; it glows once again. Overconfidently rushes forward, intent on hitting the giant with her blade. He just takes a lumbering step back, leaving her totally whiffing. "Sighhh, great."

Because of their deep bond, both the bear and the giant attack together simultaneously. The bear makes a claw attack against [[Aureate]], but she's gotten good with her shield. The force of the claw pushes her back a bit, dragged through the sand.

The giant nocks his huge longbow. Aiming at [[Infernnus]], it goes wide. Almost as if... he's supposed to be the champion, but why is his aim so off?

[[Rondell]] gets within very close range of the champions, behind [[Aureate]]. But the giant is a nimble big man, so his chaotic burst of fire misses.

The giant pulls his bow, taking a shot down at [[Rondell]]. Gracefully, and cat-like, he jumps out of the way. Thudding into the ground, [[Rondell]] just rests on the arrow.

The bear roars and claws down at [[Aureate]]. She raises her shield, but the bear's ferocity knocks her back, a pain lancing through her shoulder. It charges towards [[Sole'anni]], but he moves his nose to the side, successfully dodging.

[[Infernnus]] will hide in... the round corner of the arena. He crouches, takes aim, pulls, and prays. The giant catches the arrow out of the air and snaps it like a twig.

He reaches for an arrow of his own, aiming at [[Zarah]]. Just as the arrow seems like it will pierce her, her broom starts jerking around as if her magic is coming out on its own. With a gust of wind, she shoots straight up, just barely hanging on to her broom.

The bear charges forth at [[Rondell]]. He pulls out his whispering orb, almost praying to it, "Oh, [[Krunkel]], protect me." He raises the orb, just as the teeth of the bear sink into it! The magics within seem to push the teeth off, even just a little.

The beastmaster, seeing a dangling target, draws his bow. With a critical hit, the arrow flies towards her with insane velocity. The arrow arches through the sky, pierces her in the thigh, and pins her to the floor.

[[Sole'anni]] looks desperately at [[Zarah]], who waves his help away. So, he jumps, believing the light will guide him, and he sends out two whips of light energy. One lashes out at the bear right on the snoot, its nose bleeding. The other misses the giant.

The beastmaster, who really hates flying people, turns his focus onto [[Sole'anni]]. With another critical hit, the arrow sinks deep into his shoulder and pins him to the colosseum wall.

The bear growls at [[Rondell]] and claws at his already tattered armor. "[[Krunkel]], protect me, bro!" In a very fashion-forward look, his armor is completely shredded.

[[Aureate]] draws upon her experiences to 'avenge the fallen', literally. Yeah, two of us have definitely fallen! Aiming for the legs of the giant, she uses her broadsword with great power. Thinking it will do much damage, she turns to see what is just a scratch on such a tough opponent.

The giant retaliates with a backhand slap. Another critical hit, this time towards [[Aureate]]. She can't defend from a full-handed slap and is sent tumbling backwards, landing on her feet.

The bear charges at [[Rondell]]. After having his armor shredded by a bear, he pulls upon his primal origins to protect himself.

[[Infernnus]], the bear up in his business; he turns attention to the giant. Another arrow wizzes towards the large target, but his three eyes spot the arrow. "You think you can shoot me?" he bellows, snapping the arrow.

In response, the giant fires an arrow back at [[Infernnus]], impaling him and pinning him to the ground.

The bear charges at [[Zarah]], her wiggling to try and break free, accidentally on purpose dodges out of the way of its strike.

[[Zarah]], still pinned, channels unleash chaos. Grabbing the giant arrow, she rubs her hands together. Makeup begins to peel from her arms, and she flicks the flakes at the bear. It pelts the bear like little arrows. The arrow was pinning her, partially snapping from the release.

Another arrow launches towards [[Sole'anni]], but, in a burst of light energy, he shatters it into pieces. "You don't get to be so lucky twice." [[Sole'anni]] says coldly.

The bear reaches back for a swipe, but [[Aureate]] blocks. In frustration, it claws out again, but fails to take purchase.

The giant takes another shot at [[Sole'anni]], but whiffs. Another burst of light and a cold glare redirects the arrow. The giant, in anger, stomps the ground and drops his bow, ready to charge.

All the destroyed arrows begin to rise as [[Sole'anni]]'s light magic raises the pieces into the air. They turn back on their previous owner and rocket towards him! He mutters a quick prayer, "The light will guide me," while [[Zarah]] shouts, "I have the perfect perfume for you!! Come over here!" as a distraction. The shrapnel explodes against him, blinding him and filling him with splinters. He's clawing at his eyes, trying to get them out.

The giant whips at his face, clearing his vision, and charges at [[Sole'anni]]. Two hulking fists come flying towards him, but he smashes into the wall. It crumbles and loosens the arrow pinning him.

The bear takes a claw attack at [[Aureate]], the pain of the battle weakening her protection. She buckles from the relentless attacks and is looking super rough!

[[Aureate]] takes the gamble! Her affinity for blood and her bloodied state allow her to focus. She takes a breath and STRIKES. With no mercy and a large swing of her sword, she slices the bear. It stumbles, and she closes its eyes as it passes. "Apologies, but it's the life your master chose for you."

[[Rondell]], seeing everyone in trouble, gets up and goes personally to the giant. He extends his sharpened claws, slashing towards his achilleas heal. He bellows out in pain and backhands [[Rondell]]. NATURAL 20. He smacks the crap out of him! But cats always land on their feet, so he gracefully rolls with the punch.

He takes another punch at [[Sole'anni]], who is still pinned to the wall. With another shield for blinding light, he blocks the punch; the giant roars in pain!

[[Infernnus]], [[Sole'anni]], and [[Aureate]] TRIPLE TAG TEAM!

- [[Sole'anni]] uses light whips to pull both his hands down to his side, shouting "NOW!"

- [[Infernnus]], his aim focused, pulls his last arrow and fires. As if in slow motion, a trail of infused magic pushes the arrow right into his third eye.

- Using the other two as a distraction, [[Aureate]] jumps onto his back, slashing from behind.

The giant, in all his built-up frustration, grabs [[Aureate]], who has sunk her claws into his back. He fists her robes and slams her into [[Sole'anni]]. The forceful blow knocks [[Aureate]] unconscious!

The giant grabs [[Sole'anni]], ripping him from the pin, and tosses him at [[Rondell]]. NATURAL 20, he crashes into him with a WHAM. [[Rondell]] is down.

- "No scars, man. I'm a pretty cat."

[[Zarah]], seeing her friends in danger, pulls upon the natural environment. (CRIT) She remembers what her mother taught her: the world will provide to protect your family. She fists her hands in the sand and chucks it towards the giant. They erupt in green flames, and a faint cackle can be heard as a smiling face peers through the flames. As it reaches the giant, it explodes into multicolor fireworks. His body is left sparkling and semi-charred.

"And we have our winners!" Calls the announcer. The crowd goes wild as a team of medics rushes to heal those who have gone unconscious.

As the gate opens, the Draoknan captain swaggers out with a slow clap of appreciation. "Very good. You are now the champions of [[Kradonia]]. Next time we have a tournament, you will fight for your place."

After being successfully roused from the various states of injury, we head back to the ship.

[[Zarah]] will rush to her briefcase, grab some makeup, and frantically cover her arm.

[[Sole'anni]], turning to [[Rondell]], reaching a healing hand his way. "Don't worry. The light has touched you."

,

Rewards:

- 1 XP

- 2 handfuls of gold

- A weapon that gives everyone hope when unsheathed

- Another ship arrives at [[Dawngate]] some time after this adventure to give us our rewards

Awesome notes and thank you :)

Edited notes. Please excuse any typos.

~

It starts with the view of the wizard tower of the adventurers' guild. Halfway up, there is a large circular room where we all have gathered along with [[Fiff]]. They are a bit panicked about their lost spell book. [[Fiff]] is a tall fungril dressed in long, flowing robes of autumn colors. They are rambling about how nobody should be able to decipher the magic script of the book and that they're too busy to look on their own.

We start our investigation with some questions:

- [[Zarah]]: "When did you last see it? Did you misplace it, or did someone take it?" "I asked an intern... to put it back on the bookshelf." Ah, seems like we've found the most likely culprit

- [[Beltran]], "Who was this random intern?" [[Steve Gutenburg]] the intern printer. He's a scribe for the wizard.

- [[Fazak]] is starting to seriously doubt this division...

- [[Corin]] "Does anyone else have access to your tower?" It's public to all members of the guild. It's usually stored on the bookshelf. The shelf lines almost half the entire circular wall, full of all the books and tombs supplied to the guild.

[[Zarah]] walks over to the bookshelf, noticing the empty space where the book would be. Though on her way there, she bumps into the edge of a desk. She accidentally on purpose finds a clue! A scrap of paper slowly falls from the table, and looks like a note with only the title "[[Grimoire of Grimaces]]". This title is for the missing spell book we are looking for; it's on a particular style of casting that involves intense scowling. ([[Fazak]] would be a master.) [[Fiff]] has no clue where the paper came from, maybe some sort of hit.

[[Zarah]] offers her Charging Quiver, but no one here uses arrows. [[Fazak]] thinks about his halberd being an arrow, flying through the air.

[[Corin]] asks about a tracking spell. [[Fiff]] frowns really intensely, focusing on the paper. Our first look at the Grimace magic. The paper shimmers with magic until fading. Suspicions affirmed, "Oh, I knew it was intern... I need to focus on my desk full of magical nonsense, but he might be somewhere in the guild building."

[[Beltran]] questions, "Who would want this Grimoire?" Since the magic is difficult to learn, but not magically impressive. Seems like something a high-level wizard would like to show off with, or something a desperate mage would steal.

[[Zarah]] will criminal sketch with her Minor Illusion as [[Fiff]] describes [[Steve Gutenburg]], that way they have a visual of the criminal!

- He is a Firblog, with floppy ears, light brown fur, and a flat nose

- Bald on the top, but fuzzy everywhere else

- "Basic" mage robes for the guild

- Probably has ink stains on hands/clothing

[[Fiff]], in horror, exclaims, "Oh, he's gonna make a copy of the books. He's a new intern, only a week in." Even if he can't decipher the words, the face drawing in the book can still be enough to cast. Plus, he can always make a copy to study later.

[[Fazak]] readies his gear, "Welp, we have a description, let's start."

~

We start by scanning the guild for people who are bald on top, furry on bottom.

- [[Zarah]] scans the crowd

[[Fazak]] starts asking around. "Seen a Firbold with a bad haircut and suspicious aura?"

- [[Fazak]] with the aid of [[Beltran]] ask around

- [[Corin]], impressed by [[Fazak]], will encourage him with words "You would be such a good follower of Mother," which helps to kick him out of his "full grandpa grump" mood

Both spot some people who seem to know [[Steve Gutenburg]]. "We've seen him around. Been working for [[Fiff]]. I saw them head out towards the docks with a very big book just earlier today."

[[Zarah]], "If he's going to the docks, he might be trying to sell it." [[Fazak]] is SICK of the docks and is dreading the trip. [[Beltran]] leads the way to the docks. "I look at the stars every night."

~

Late afternoon/early evening, we make our way to the docks. Walking around and looking for anything suspicious. [[Zarah]] picks up a magical sense. There are the normal blips of magic from her companions and other passersby, but also a very strange blip from below.

[[Zarah]] crouches down, head to the floor, sensing for anything else. [[Beltran]] stops in bewilderment, "Are you alright?" "I feel a strange magic underneath!" "I haven't seen anything out of the normal waiting for [[The Maiden's Rhyme]]."

Looking for a place that might lead down, [[Fazak]] turns to the closest building, a storage warehouse. He points, "If it's something down there... Maybe a basement?" Scoping the scene real quick, it seems pretty much deserted, everyone closing around this time.

The door is locked and [[Corin]] is a bit apprehensive about breaking in. There is a window on the 2nd floor above the door.

[[Beltran]] asks if [[Zarah]]'s broom is fixed... not yet. [[Fazak]] cracks his neck, "ugh," he shakes out his wings and loudly flies up. Peaking through the window, it looks like a regular warehouse, with crates and storage neatly organized. "Doesn't look like it has any obvious basement. Maybe the sewers." "Ew..." "You hugged an undead fox!"

[[Zarah]] hugs the edge of the pier to find any grates. There is a draining grate not fully underwater; it is up to their knees in water. "Do you think this could be a path forward?"

[[Fazak]], seeing [[Corin]] face of determination, backs off. [[Corin]] wants to pull the grate to "prove himself." He hops down into the water. He PULLS, takes a few more breaths, and pulls harder. (25 with fear) He lifts the grate off the wall, and it comes off with more ease than expected.

Suddenly, we hear voices up ahead, "Huh, what's that?" legs sloshing through water coming our direction.

"We're doing work for the city. Oi, official guild business, who's in there?" [[Fazak]] calls out. Someone moves up into the light. We all recognize [[Steve Gutenburg]] from the description.

[[Zarah]] throws the net down from the pier(17 with fear), and it catches [[Steve Gutenburg]], but not before he starts shouting "HEY, we've got trouble!"

,

Two pairs of glowing eyes in the darkness of the tunnel.

[[Corin]] stumbles to add, "I'm sorry, Sir Gutenberg. Maybe you forgot to put a book back, we don't mean any trouble."

[[Beltran]] pulls out a piece of paper. "We've been hired to detain you if you won't give us this book." Using his depth deceiver (CRIT) [[Steve Gutenburg]] is getting worried, "You know what-" and he starts frowning REAL hard.

### Combat Start!

[[Steve Gutenburg]] curses [[Beltran]]... and unsettling presence from the frown. "He's using the Grimoire!" Behind him comes a floating skull with a sinister smile. The skull turns to [[Fazak]], a blasts of strange magical energy shoot from its mouth. [[Fazak]] turns to let his armor take a bit of a hit. "Okay, talking over."

[[Fazak]] immediately pushes forward, engaging the skull. Smacked with a giant polearm, using his pray dice. He thrusts his halberd up, attempting to pierce the skull.

Beltran pulls out his rapier, lunging at the skull with an extra slash from his offhand dagger. The skull is hit, but the magic within the skull starts to condense and BOOM!

- [[Fazak]] jumps in front of Beltran to protect him from the shrapnel blast.

Another skull now approaches; it spots Beltran and barfs out a necromantic blast.

[[Steve Gutenburg]] wriggles free from the net. He turns to the tunnel, calling out, "A little help, please!" Turning to the three in the tunnel ([[Corin]], [[Beltran]], and [[Fazak]]), he lets out magical discharge.

[[Beltran]] slides back from the shockwave, starting to look really hurt. "Everyone, stand your ground, we got this! Take them down," he calls out some Inspirational Words.

[[Corin]] focuses on his axe, "This is the scary part." He holds up his spirit weapon, and it shoots Beyblade style. Just as [[Zarah]] jumps down and pushes a large burst of chaotic magic from behind her friends. The bubbling green magic pushes the axe forward, turning one skull to ash and seriously injuring the other.

The sound of more people coming sloshing through the water.

[[Beltran]] rallies out a call, "I told you we could do it! Stay strong!" He takes a plugging step forward, one-two step rapier-dagger combo at the skull, but misses. The skull cackles as he trips. [[Fazak]] steps forward and reassures him, helping to guide Beltran into hitting. In retaliation, the skull blasts [[Beltran]] with magic spit.

From deeper within the sewer, a tall elf comes up behind [[Steve Gutenburg]]. He rushes up to [[Corin]], attempting to stab him, but misses.

[[Zarah]] pulling upon the darkness within the tunnel, casts Shadowbind, extending further than what is seen. Shadowy tendrils pull from the stone walls. Gently passing by her campions, the shadows slither and grasp onto the enemies, locking them in place.

[[Corin]] sparring touch to [[Beltran]].

[[Fazak]] sees the opportunity, "Ready, lad?" [[Corin]] and him **Double Spirit Weapon Beyblade Extraordinar Combo**! They hit the skull, [[Steve Gutenburg]], and the elf. The skull is smashed into pieces as the humanoids are left dazed. [[Fazak]] shouts out, "We're here for a book. You want to live or die? Just give us the damn thing."

"Ugh, fine. The books over there." He points with his chin. "It's back there."

[[Zarah]] pops open her briefcase. She rummages around and pulls a clay mask. She slathers it on [[Steve Gutenburg]]'s face to stop him from casting any spells. She turns to the elf with a glint in her eyes, putting some on his t-zone. She pats them down, but doesn't find anything.

There is a halfling and a ribbit (stuck on the ceiling) bound in the shadow further in the tunnel.

The book is gross and soggy. [[Fazak]] is ready to go, with a net in his hands. [[Beltran]] is sniffing his stinky cloak, [[Zarah]] casts minor illusion to make it appear clean, but the smell is still there.

[[Fazak]] CHOOSES to drag [[Steve Gutenburg]], tied him up in a net.

[[Zarah]] casts her floating eye, turning to the bound figures, she smiles. "If you leave, I will find you and come after you. So, you'd better not move. Okay, let's go!"

[[Fazak]] heals [[Corin]] with a pat on the shoulder.

[[Beltran]] cheers, "You did a really good job, keep it up," to [[Zarah]]. She feels hopeful from the kind words..

~

[[Corin]] talks to a guard, letting them know they've got some thieves held under the pier. He says to let the book air-dry to not smudge the ink.

We arrive at [[Fiff]]'s office, and they are surprised/confused at our method of bringing the thief back. "Why is the book soaked?" "We got it back, that's all that matters!"

"I need a bath," [[Zarah]] huffs. [[Beltran]] seconds that..

[[Fiff]] brings out our rewards, "This might help." They present a shoe-sized wooden chest decorated with curly filigree. [[Fiff]] just stares at it... (Really intensely) Ah, the box of staring! It opens to a pile of gold and some sort of bright orange crystal. "Okay, thank you for getting the book back... even though it's soggy. You can have this."

- Unstable arcane shard ([[Zarah]]) You can make a Finesse Roll to throw this shard at a group of adversaries within Far range. Targets you succeed against take 1d20 magic damage

- Each person gets 3 handfuls of gold

- Chest of Prolong Eye Contact ([[Corin]]) This magical chest appears empty. When you speak a specific trigger word or action (in this case, staring very intently) and open the chest, you can see the items stored within it.

- [[Fazak]] gives [[Beltran]] one of his handfuls of gold to help in cleaning his cloak.

- [[Beltran]] and [[Zarah]] head to a local bath house.

Cleaned up notes!

---

Tasked to investigate [[The Daybreaker]], we gather our supplies and head out. It was spotted a few days ago, drifting at sea. We hitched a ride on a small fishing boat to follow the [[Moonstone River]] to the ocean.

The boat is owned by [[Shelby]], a giant man. He has super long, gray braided hair and a beard that reaches the floor. His clothes are standard for the area, with a lot of fishing equipment used to patch up his outfit. His belt is made of old fishing rope, which is very practical. His large figure makes the little fishing boat tilt, but he is very used to rowing his boat to open waters to fish.

The waters are calm with low wind, so he starts rowing the oars. As we get closer to our destination, the fog grows. Twenty minutes later, we cannot see land or sky anymore as the fog has become so dense. We start to approach a large shadow rocking gently in the distance. Shelby has a device to keep track of the direction even in the fog.

We approach an average-sized cargo ship. Two ropes are hanging off the boat, and waves are crashing into the hull rhythmically.

[[Fazak]] wasn't aware that this mission meant being on the sea. He took the job because it needed to be done, and now he is feeling very seasick on the small, rocky boat. The large fishman tilting the boat is not helping. So, he flies up to the deck to search for anything to toss down to his other companions.

Akin to bugs' life, [[Fazak]] flies up shakily. Landing with a thud, he spots a woman fixing a fishing net, her back turned to him. A strong smell of rotting fish covers the whole boat. The sound of a large creature swings through the fog. Landing in front, a deep booming voice calls out, "Hello, there. What brings a land lover like you onto [[The Daybreaker]]?" A large gorilla man greets him.

[[Fazak]] dusting himself off and addressing the man, "My apologies for the sudden introduction. We were sent to see what the situation was. You should have arrived at [[Dawngate]] three days ago."

"There's no trouble, we should be arriving just on time to [[Dawngate]]," says the gorilla man, confused.

Looking around, it seems like a normal trading vessel. Nets, black powder cannons, two doors leading to the cabin, and the cargo area. You know, normal ship things. He can only see two people manning the ship from his spot.

"I have two companions below. Can they come on board and we can all make our way to [[Dawngate]] together?"

"Be careful, the poopdeck is still slippery from last night's storm." There was no storm last night... Letting the incorrect statement pass, [[Fazak]] throws down the rope ladder. [[Zarah]] and [[Maestro]] climb up as [[Shelby]] latches his ship to coast with them.

"I've never been on a boat before" [[Zarah]] cheerfully says.

"I personally think we should present ourselves to the crew." [[Maestro]] says.

"What a fine idea!" From the quarterdeck of the ships steps out a young man. He's visually striking with dark curly hair and vibrant energy. He jumps down from the cabin to greet us. He picks [[Zarah]]'s hand and gives a kiss. "My name is [[Tidas]]. Welcome!"

A bit flabbergasted at his sudden approach. "Uhhh, are you a pirate?" [[Zarah]] questions, as she's only read about pirate adventures on the sea. "That depends, do you like pirates?" He jokes.

Taking their turns to greet themselves:

- "You are looking at [[Maestro|Maestro Anura]], the one an only."

- "[[Fazak]] of the [[Wild Knights]], pleasure." He gives a salute.

- "And I'm [[Zarah]]! From [[Oishi]]." She smiles.

"Welcome aboard my ship. We should be landing in [[Dawngate]] soon." The captain cheers. Thinking back, it took us about an hour to row from [[Dawngate]] to here, but they've supposedly been traveling for three days. Something is not adding up.

[[Zarah]] was a bit stunned by his direct actions; it took her a second to process, but something felt off. Rather it felt like nothing at all! The kiss on the hand had no touch of fingers or lips. She corrals [[Fazak]] and [[Maestro]] to the side, pretending to help a seasick [[Fazak]]. "Something is weird, I didn't feel anything when he touched me." [[Maestro]] looks confused.

He spots a crate on board with a tarp over it. The smell of rotting fish is coming from it. With a careful gaze, he sees an ever slight movement from under it. "My friends, don't look now, but later. There is something FISHY about it. I could maybe distract them while you investigate."

[[Tidas]] has walked back to the helm of the ship, he can see a limited view of the deck. The tarp is behind the center mast. The other two are busy with there own tasks and don't seem to be paying much mind to the new strangers on board.

[[Zarah]] is very interested in what the crate might have to offer. Seeing this, [[Maestro]] gestures her to go ahead/lead the way. [[Zarah]] gets her broom out, still cautious of what might be under. The smell gets stronger with every step closer. Using the end of her broom, she carefully lifts the tarp up revealing oozing, dead fish.

[[Maestro]] remembers a strange "Northern delicacy" that involves strong smelling fermented fish. Though, this just looks like normal sea fish, caught around the area.

Suddenly, while taking a closer look, something jumps out the fish pile on top of [[Zarah]]! A huge manta ray with crab legs, it's round mouth with rows of teeth, with a whipping tail.

### Combat Start:

Whips it's tail at the pinned [[Zarah]]. She takes serve damage, only able to dull the blow by rolling on her side.

[[Zarah]], in a moment of pure instinct, Unleashes Chaos. The blood from her wound blustering her magic, her primal origin guiding the energy. Spectral green light rushes from her chest, to her hands, shocking the creature. It's pushed away from the blast, looking rough.

[[Maestro]] takes his rapier, a bit shocked by the sudden appearance. His slashes go wide, he doesn't like it when the food attacks you back.

With is falter, the stinger on its tail attempts to stab [[Maestro]]. The poisonous tail just misses as he gloats, "I used to be a dancer. My hips don't lie~"

[[Fazak]] looks around at the other crew members, he notices that they haven't even reacted to all the noise. That's Problem B, Problem A is the crab manta. His wings extend, rushing up he yeets his halberd. His grand-paternal instincts to protect [[Zarah]]. It strikes straight into the Ray, the string yo-yoing him to the ray to push the rest of the weapon into the creature's mouth and through the skull. With small twitches, it takes it's final breath. [[Fazak]] standing victorious like superman. "I really don't like seafood." He huffs out.

"You haven't tried my seafood." Suggests [[Maestro]]. "Fine, I'll try yours. You get a pass."

[[Maestro]] has seen this manta ray crab creature before. He recognizes it from a book on the many deep sea creatures that dot the ocean floor. This one is known to it eats dead/decaying fish. A normal monster, maybe a delicacy to some, but the smell is so bad. No special magic detected from it.

[[Zarah]] suggests, "So, the creature came after the fish."

[[Fazak]] shrugging to the crate of old fish, "Is this the delicacy? Who brings a crate of rotten fish for trade"

We're not sure what this vessels was originally carrying. So, we split up, each taking one of the crew.

- [[Maestro]] to the gorilla man

- [[Fazak]] to the woman with a net

- [[Zarah]] to [[Tidas]]

[[Maestro]] approaches in his show-boat manner. "Hello, big fellow! Do you usually repeat yourself a lot like this?" "Do you?" The man snarks back. "Variety is the spice of life! I have many lesson. We can talk all night if you like. What is your name, good sir?" "The name's [[Urchin]]." "That's a special name, my friend." He holds out his hand, but it passes through. "Well, [[Urchin]], this is not so nice. You don't know how to shake a hand?" "I just shook your hand, what do you mean?" Trying to get a read on him, (with his experience reading about big hairy men??), he pushes a little too far. [[Urchin]] sees the tight gaze of the ribbit, "You should bugger off. We should be arriving in [[Dawngate]] any time now. Stay clear of the poopdeck, it's still wet from the storm last night."

[[Maestro]] walks back to his companions with a bit of fear in his eyes. Joking, [[Zarah]] teases "Wow, that was very impressive. The smell of romance (rotting flesh) in the air."

While that happens, [[Fazak]] walks up to the woman. "You look like you're having trouble with the nets, allow me to help" "Sure." The katari woman has deep, black fur across her skin, her nails sharp, and her eyes slitted. "Ships aren't my specialty, but" he gestures to his armor, "two heads are better than one." They both fixed the nets, but her hands aren't really doing anything. Her fingers are making the movements, but they pass through the nets with out her noticing.

[[Fazak]] helps to repair the small holes in the fishing net. Not really getting a sense of what's going on here. While talking, she introduces herself as [[Kara]] and that they have to repair the nets because they just caught some fish before the storm. "We're so close to [[Dawngate]], they should still be fresh." "Those fish ain't fresh." "Of course they're fresh, we just caught them an hour ago. We even threw in an ice rune to keep it cool." He nods his head, "I'm sure the traders will look forward to them." He finishes the nets and returns to the group.

"I don't believe our katari friend is aware of what's going on with the ship." "Not Mr. [[Urchin]] either. Something strange is a foot.."

[[Zarah]] walks up the steps to meet with [[Tidas]] who is behind the wheel. "Oh, lovely [[Zarah]], you're back." "Hi, I was just wondering what you guys normally trade." She asks, politely. "Mostly clothing." "Oh, you wouldn't mind if I took a look for myself, would you?" "I must excuse myself, I do have a fiancé. She's down in the captains quarters. Newly engage." "Congratulations! When's the wedding." "Hmmm, any day now."

Sensing she's gotten what she could from the conversation, she heads to the cargo zone with her companions in toe. Many neatly organized crates, though there is a smell of decay. Peaking into the crates, there seem to be middle-to-upper-class clothes with well-made dresses and coats. Rounding the corner to a shocking view. The decomposing body of [[Kara]].

[[Zarah]] goes up to investigate the body tucked between some boxes in the back. Akin to lab dissections she's done, to examine the wounds. Stab marks... no, more like scratches. More marks than necessary to kill her, but not self-inflicted.

[[Fazak]] definitely recognizes the body as [[Kara]]. Same clothes, same fur pattern. He clasts his pin, a chance to give her some last rights before moving on. "We should probably find the rest of their bodies." "The fiancé is in the captain's quarters." "Something's better than nothing."

![[The Dawnbreaker Ship Map.png|224x149]]

Before we head up, [[Maestro]] gives a us all a pep talk. He's feeling a bit scared of the unknown around the corner: "In moments of discomfort, I always tend to go back to one special recipe." He flips open his mother's stew cookbook he points to a homely-looking stew. He reads the recipe, and the love/comfort he's had with this food is apparent. The feeling lingers on.

We head to the captain's quarters, crossing the deck to do so. We open the door with a slight creek. Small corridor leads towards a table with some assorted text. To the left and right are closed doors. There is a magic cystral on the table, a faint magical glow pinging to [[Zarah]], though she's not sure what it is.

She picks it up to inspect it closer and accidently activates it. Out comes a Quasit (a small demon/imp without wings, ugly cute). In a squeaking voice it calls out, "Hello?! Are you my new masters?" [[Maestro]], with great enthusiasm agrees "Yes, we are. What are you doing here?" "I'm the map. My name is [[Mappy]]." "Well, [[Mappy]], who was your previous master?" "His name was uhhh, [[Tim]] (the seller). Are you not the people who bought me? I am to lead someone to a location. Some kind of temple! I can show you, that's the point of having a map. Are we still on the ship?"

[[Zarah]] "Yes, but we should be getting to [[Dawngate]] any time now!" Looking closer there is a letter of purchase on table. [[Sir Francisco Dupont the Explorer]] was the buyer, no other information about the man.

[[Fazak]] quickly peaks into the larger room, slowly opening the door. Inside is a sleeping girl. She looks human, around 18-years-old, with light waves and a wedding gown on, she is quite beautiful. [[Fazak]] waves to get our attention, shushing us.

All three peak over to look at her. Glancing around the room, there's a captain's hat on a hanger, a small bed with an unlit candle to its side. She must be the fiancé. [[Fazak]] walks up to check her, she's breathing. He lightly taps her shoulder, trying to wake her up without spooking her. Though when her eyes open, she's obviously confused about the unknown faces. "Who are you!?"

He stands back, and she shuffles back. "Don't be afraid child, we mean you no harm." Professes [[Maestro]] "We were sent by the city to locate your ship. You crew is in a bad state." [[Fazak]] says bluntly. "Oh, dear. Is my fiancé alright? [[Tidas]]?" "Last time we saw him, he was on the deck of the ship." Coyly says [[Maestro]].

"Do you know the black fur katari?" "Yes, I know [[Kara]]. Last time I saw her was before I went to bed." "Please prepare yourself, your ship has had a troubled time since you were asleep."

"I should probably go check on [[Tidas]]." [[Fazak]] will gently escort her out the room. As he does, bringer her closer to the others, [[Zarah]] feels a ping of magic.

Shouting in panic, "Wait, don't go." Stopping in place, the to-be bride turns and walks up to her. With direct eye contact, she whispers in her ear. The sense of magic is so strong, it's ugly and horrible. The unknown girl whispers, "You're like me. You're hiding something too. You're hiding how ugly you are!" With a huff, she turns and tries to leave the room leaving [[Zarah]] stunned.

[[Fazak]] interposes the door, but she shouts. "Move, I need to see my fiancé. I need to make sure he's alright." "My friend can sense magic and feels problems with the ship." "You sure there's something wrong with the ship?" Seeing how shocked [[Zarah]] is, he steps aside. Something about this isn't matching up, but he doesn't want to have a confrontation inside. "It's probably that ugly Quasit. You should get rid of it." She slams the door.

[[Maestro]] turns to the small figure, "Don't listen to her. It's on the fleshy inside that counts." "Thank you! You're the best masters I've had."

"I felt her magic. It was weird and twisted. I don't know if she caused this situation, but I think she knows more than she's letting on. Bridezillas are the worst." [[Maestro]] adds, "Yes, I know. I've had five!" (HE'S A HOE!?)

[[Fazak]] turns to [[Mappy]], "Have you been summoned before?" "Before the ship, I was instructed to help Dupont. Don't recognize the woman." [[Zarah]] quickly peaks into the other room. The presumed room of the first mate. Some woman's clothes, so it's probably [[Kara]]'s room.

[[Maestro]], wanting to see her reaction to the crew, will exit the dorms. [[Fazak]] and [[Zarah]] follow.

Up by the steering wheel, The girl is next to [[Tidas]] hanging on his arm, with a love struck expression on both their faces.

As we approach and she sees us, she seems angry at first but quickly smiles. The ship remains silent and still, [[Kara]] still making no progress on the net and [[Urchin]] on the deck.

[[Fazak]], looking up the wheel bluntly says, "Captain [[Tidas]]? We found the dead body of someone who is still working on this deck. I believe an explanation is due." "Well, you can't be working if you're dead. That's just silly." [[Zarah]] attempts to touch his shoulder, but the woman pulls [[Tidas]] back. "What are you doing? You should leave!"

Frustrated, [[Fazak]] walks over to [[Kara]] swinging his Halberd. Nothing. It swishes through her form with no effect. She turns, nonplussed, "Don't break the net."

"It appears I didn't behead your crewmate. I couldn't hit anything. I'm trying to prove a point!" He waves his hand through [[Kara]] to emphasis it. [[Maestro]] jumping through [[Urchin]] to add to the comedy of it all.

[[Tidas]] shaking his head in confusion, "We'll be arriving at [[Dawngate]] soon. You must have had some wrong food and aren't feeling well."

"My name is [[Coral]]. You are no longer in invited to my wedding! It was supposed to be last night, but it was postponed. He's a captain! He can wed us right now!" Her face turns dark with every question [[Maestro]] asks about the details of their engagement. "Well, it wasn't a good time!!!" Her eyes shift to a dark hue until returning to normal.

"Was it because of the storm?" Asks [[Zarah]]. "Yes. Yes it was." [[Coral]] says huffing.

[[Fazak]], in a stroke of genius, exclaims "I can officiate a wedding as a member of the [[Wild Knights]]." (He is lying.) [[Maestro]] adds, "I have seen it myself."

[[Coral]] turns to her beloved "Is that something you want to do, [[Tidas]]?" "I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Until death do us part." [[Urchin]] and [[Kara]] murmur "until death do us part..."

Rule of cool, we're having a wedding now!

- [[Maestro]] pulls out a theremin, for creepy wedding march. Trying to match the theme.

- [[Zarah]] is on the decoration team. Making her own party poppers from excess paper and pinning clothes/ribbon to the deck.

- [[Fazak]] is trying to write a speech with [[Maestro]] helping with the words of love~

"She seems to be possessed in some way. I think if she gets what she want, she will leave. Why is this written like a cookbook?" "Love is like a kitchen." "I think this metaphor is getting out of hand." Thinking, [[Fazak]]'s mind eventually circles around to happy stomach, happy families. Nodding in confidence, he continues writing.

[[Zarah]], looking for some paper for more decorations, finds some in the log books. Taking some clothes to turn into banners and bows to decorate the ship. The ship starts to get darker as we decorate. The wind has been very still, but it's starting to pick up a little.

[[Coral]] approaches [[Zarah]], asking her to be her maid of honor. "I thought you hated me." "We're friends now. We're so alike after all." "Want me to do your makeup?" She takes out some light makeup to accentuate her beauty. Crushed shells for a shimmer and beetle stain for her lips/cheeks.

[[Maestro]] takes [[Coral]]'s arm, walking her down the isle. Finally, he can be the dad he never was to all his children. (He has children all over [[Tanzeim]].) He really gets into the roll of, tearing up a bit when letting her go to [[Tidas]].

The Quasit is both the ring bearer and flower girl, sporting a new bowtie from [[Zarah]]'s ribbon stash.

Weirdest exorcism in the world...

[[Tidas]] and [[Coral]] stand in front of [[Fazak]], looking at each other with love. [[Fazak]] almost freezes up, the moment suddenly getting him. Slowly, in his head, he replaces [[Tidas]] with himself and [[Coral]] with a woman from his past. Repeating the words he heard at his own wedding, he repeats the words he remembers so dearly. Clasping his folk hero pin, he closes his eyes and prays.

- (BOTH PRAY DICE, RALLEY DICE, FOLK HERO EXPERICE, ADVATAGE, 29 with hope)

It's beautiful. The rings are ribbon.

[[Coral]] "Yes, I do."

[[Tidas]] "Of course, my darling. Why would I ever say anything else. I do."

As they kiss, the wind picks up. As they pull away, her arms drop as he disappears. [[Urchin]] and [[Kara]] disappear from the crowd.

Turning to us she says, "Thank you. Now, he will be with me forever." She walks to the edge of the boat. Her dress starts dripping, her hair clinging to her skin.. "I hope we meet again."

[[Fazak]] asks, "If you see a woman called [[Bazera]] on the other side. Please say hello."

She falls backwards in to water.

The fogs starts to clear and the wind starts to pick up towards [[Dawngate]]. We should be arriving in [[Dawngate]] very soon.

[[Fazak]] shouts down to [[Shelby]] "Hey, want a vessel that fits you better?" "I should probably help you steer." "OH SHIT."

~

Arriving back in [[Dawngate]], we return the ship to the company that owns it. After further investigation into the captains log, we hear the true story.

On there way to [[Dawngate]], they picked up a girl who was floating on some debris. Her clothes were recked, so she put on one of the wedding dresses being shipped. She was flirty with the captain and there are many segments describing her beauty. Before the storm arrives, she said "If you marry me now, I can save you!" After that, the captain says that something feels weird, "I don't know if I can go through with it." He wasn't sure and he didn't get to choose before the storm came. He broke the promise and died in the storm, they all became part of the ship until the promise was kept.

[[Mappy]], the Quasit goes to [[Maestro]].

A summary/script of the session! Please excuse any brackets or spelling errors. I take notes in Obsidian and use the brackets to link things.

Three different people are waiting at the location. Talking with each other. Well, one is mostly talking while the other listens.

1. [[Wyatt]], a katari with black and white fur. On the more feline side, they look very scholarly with large glasses. They/Them

2. [[Tina]], a clank made of wood and metal fancy-looking is fancy-looking with no visible weapons. She/Her

3. [[Dawson]], a giant who hasn't said much. He has large muscles and a great sword.

[[Zarah]] walks up, excited for the corrupted beasts' quests. She has recently joined the Guild to learn more and help others. The katari looks surprised that someone took on the quest. As she introduces herself, another figure rounds the corner. [[Fazak]] comes burring onto the scene. He sizes up the three who put on the quest, worried that it's gonna be a bunch of idiots who don't know what they're doing. Walking up to the group, his halberd is tied to him with a string. He uses it as a walking stick, a very large walking stick.

[[Fazak]] acknowledges [[Zarah]], happy to know someone.

The three are looking for corrupted beasts to study as the number affecting [[Dahaste]] has gotten out of hand. [[Zarah]] suggests, "Maybe we can head in the direction and you can tell me more about the beasts." We head to one of the exit gates of [[Dawngate]]. [[Wyatt]] rambles about their research, trying to figure out what is causing the unnatural aggression/corruption, thinking it's some sort of magic. [[Zarah]] hasn't heard anything that sounds familiar.

In the back half of the group, [[Fazak]] asks, "So, do we actually have a capturing method?" He gestures to his weapon, showing that he can kill but not capture. [[Dawson]] says they have some nets, unless [[Wyatt]] forgot to back them. [[Fazak]] sees the two most invested talking ([[Wyatt]] and [[Zarah]] yapping away), happy to listen to what they say to get information. "Please check," he says worriedly.

[[Tina]] pauses her walking, looks in her bag, and sees a medium-sized net. "And you're all carrying one? Good." [[Fazak]] is so worried, pessimism in his voice. "Will they be ready to throw a net?" Dawson side eyes [[Tina]]... can clanks have muscles? [[Tina]] is a scaredy cat and quickly rushes to hand over her net to someone more capable. "Please don't let me do this."

It's mid to late afternoon, about 30 minutes to an hour of walking through the fields near [[Dawngate]], when suddenly, there is a noise. Slight rustling and the chirps of small creatures come from ahead. "Did you hear that?" wonders [[Zarah]]. [[Wyatt]] shuts their mouth in fear.

"Mr. [[Fazak]], would you like to take a look?" [[Zarah]] says, looking to the back half of the group. He signs, attaching the net to his weapon. His shell opens, and he lumbers up with his wings like a heavy helicopter. Flying up, he hears the sound of birds and sees something odd in the near distance. Two foxes up ahead to the side, one looks undead, and the other with a strange teal glow. He waves to get our attention, holding two fingers up, signaling that there are two enemies ahead. [[Zarah]], in confusion, does a peace sign back with a big smile. There arees down, "There's two foxes over there, one appears to be no alive anymore."

The three "monster hters" all have a different expression. interested] looks interested, [[Tina]] vibes are 'shitting her metal pants', and [[Dawson]] looks surprisingly neutral.

[[Fazak]] attempts to get a read on [[Dawson]]. (CRIT) He seems proficient with his sword, but also has the sword to look more professional. He got training, but he likes to show off. To the researchers, "If you three could stay here, we'll see if we can bag it. Then you can come and observe." [[Dawson]] is ready to throw a net. "You ready, kid?" "Yes, let's go!" [[Zarah]] chirps, very excited to see the foxes up close.

We approach, as sneaky as a bulky faerie and a clumsy human can be. The foxes come into view. One undead fox and another fox with glowing eyes. The sickly teal color pours from its eyes and mouth like dry ice in water.

"If we can get closer, I can cast a minor illusion." "I'm not the stealthiest, but we can try."

As they get within close range, [[Zarah]] can sense some lingering magic on the undead one and some passive magic on the corrupted fox. And, as she ponders, she senses something else behind the pups. Hidden under the tall grass, she whispers to [[Fazak]] that she noticed something. They pop out heads out and are face to face with a **spectral wolf**, and it looks into [[Fazak]]'s eyes.

### Combat Start!

It snaps it's jaws in the air, ghostly after images whips towards [[Fazak]]. He gets blasted by the bite, stumbling backward, coughing in the after shocks.

Seeing him down, [[Zarah]] will Unleash Chaos. The spectral green sparkly magic drains from her arms, shooting the creature. It lets out a mournful howl in pain.

[[Fazak]] gets back to his feet, "We gotta keep one of the foxes alive." The **spectral wolf** is too big for the net. "Stay close!" She shouts as he moves up close to the wolf and the two foxes. Halberd time. He aims at the wolf, but he swings and misses. Only catching the ghostly underside of the wolf.

The foxes turn to [[Zarah]]. The corrupted one bites with it's snapping jaws, the inside of it mouth is glowing ominously. Her one weakness, cute/creepy thing! "Just like the plushie I had as a kid!" She pushes in pain.

[[Fazak]] is a bit concerned, but the wolf is the biggest threat. Having honed his skills with a polearm, he draws on his training. He hits, having learned from his mistake before. The halberd drops, the string spinning it, allowing the stab to be even fiercer!

The wolf pushes against [[Fazak]]'s consciousness, the teal figure of the creature shoves, and a spectral [[Fazak]] pops out of his body. Floating above, all he can do is gawk at the new feeling.

The undead fox slowly approaches [[Zarah]], hobbling to reach her. She squats down with her arms out, "Oh, you're just so cute! I can't get over it." Both foxes bit her hands, and she pulled back in obvious pain.

[[Fazak]] spirit slips back into his body hearing [[Zarah]] scream in pain. He moves towards her and attacks the wolf. His pin glows a vibrant gold as he slams his hammer onto the wolf, bringing it down on the corrupted fox. Spinning his wings and his halberd, HE BEYBLADES THAT SHIT, for the force of the blow being exponential. Landing next to [[Zarah]], he heals her with a pat to the shoulder.

Kicking open her briefcase, she pulls out a nobbly broom. She shakes the bristles at the wolf, her magic wraps around the handle before sapping the wolf. It starts to lose its tether to the realm, its vibrant blue fading with every hit. From a pat on the back from [[Fazak]], the grandpa vibes remind her of home and her mother. The magic surges from her bloodline, a green beam shooting from the head of her broom like a laser gun. The spectral wolf disappears in a flash of energy.

The undead fox bites [[Fazak]]'s ankle, clanking on his armor unsuccessfully. The corrupted fox attempts to bite [[Zarah]], but [[Fazak]] interposes with the shell bit of his wings. [[Zarah]]'s apple glows a protective green.

[[Fazak]] is hitting his limit of bullshit. He looks at the corrupted fox and tries to body slam the fox with the net. (USES EVERY POSSIBLE ADD-ON, and he CRIT) With a grace and dexterity yet unseen, he backflips and scoops up the corrupted fox in the net.

With only one last foe, [[Zarah]] will pick up the undead fox, who squirms in her arms. The fox relaxes for the movement as she gives it scritches. The creature's ribcages poke her side, a bit uncomfortable to hold. It bites her hand and hobbles away. The vibe of "fuck this, I'm going home."

fox

[[Fazak]] attaches the bag to the halberd to avoid being scratched/bitten. He is also tired and just wants to go home. "Shall we take this one back?" They all head back to the researchers with bite marks all over their hands/arms

[[Wyatt]] immediately approaches and then backs off from the rabid animal. Pointing to [[Dawson]], "You carry this home. You can wait half an hour to study it." [[Fazak]] huffs. He wants to go home so bad.

~

As the sun sets, the group makes their way back to [[Dawngate]]. They enter, and the glow of the fox draws a lot of attention. The townsfolk give a wild birth to the party.

[[Wyatt]] muses on where to keep the little fella. "Do we keep it with [[Aly Hammerdance]] at the guild? [[Axol]]? No, he'll experiment on it. Hmmm." Finding a good place for the fox will be harder than thought.

[[Fazak]] has a growing irritation that they have no plans for the thing they asked for. With a sign, he says, "Follow me," heading towards the blacksmith. "Hello, just to be quick. How much to make a cage with a handle?" A moment of silence from the blacksmith... He holds up a handful of gold. "This enough?" Putting the handful of gold into the hand of the stuttering smithy.

While he's talking, [[Zarah]] attempts to feed the fox with some curded meat through the holes of the net. "Aw, it likes me!" She chitters back at the obviously irritated fox.

Long rest, Downtime:

- [[Fazak]] tends to his wounds and repairs his armor.

- [[Zarah]] tends to her wounds and aids [[Wyatt]] by calming the fox while he inspects it.

The next morning, [[Fazak]] is still worried about the fox getting let out in town. Last night, when repairing his armor, he fell asleep in his chair. He wakes up bright and early like an average old person, headed to the blacksmith who just finished the cage. [[Fazak]] gives a respectful bow, "Thank you for the expedient work." [[Dawson]] picks up the cage and brings it back to the other researchers.

[[Zarah]] puts a bit of fabric at the bottom of the cage to make the fox a bit more comfortable. [[Fazak]] is torn between letting her believe the fox can be saved and wanting to keep her away from the messed-up animal.

[[Tina]], still a bit shaken at the experience. It seems her motto is "if it makes my friends happy." She comes up to [[Zarah]] and [[Fazak]] with some gifts. "Thank you for helping. We still have some remaining nets. My friends will be busy for a while. Would you be interested in the extra net?"

"I'll never say no to some free nets!" "That would be appreciated, thank you."

She also pulls out some leaves. [[Zarah]] instantly recognizes them as Versic Leaves. While they have an unpleasant taste, they aid in battle (+2 hope). She is very excited to see them! [[Fazak]] gives [[Zarah]] his leaves, thinking she would have more use for them.

- Added to Inventory: 1 net, 2 Versic Leaves, 1 handful of gold, 1 exp)

[[Zarah]] takes [[Fazak]] out for a nice lunch with the gold that they got. He gets the biggest steak they have.