
The cast of Critical Role transforms into one of their original campaign characters (voted on by our audience) for our Chicago Live Show! Watch Game Master Matthew Mercer transport our heroes into the deadly game show ""Total Party Kill,"" hosted by the charismatic Malvolio Contreras (special guest Robbie Daymond). Critical Role's 10-Year Anniversary Chicago Live Show took place on April 10th, 2025 at the Wintrust Arena. BEACON We’re excited to bring you even MORE with a Beacon membership! Start your 7-day free trial today at https://beacon.tv/join and get unparalleled access to the shows you love completely ad-free! You’ll receive NEW Beacon exclusive series, instant access to VODs & podcasts, live event pre-sales, merch discounts, & a private Discord. YOUTUBE MEMBERS / TWITCH SUBSCRIBERS Twitch Subscribers and YouTube Members gain instant access to VODs of our shows, moderated live chats, and custom emojis & badges: https://www.youtube.com/criticalrole/join https://www.twit...
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Ashley Johnson
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Matthew Mercer
Avoiding your unfinished home projects because you're not sure where to start.
Liam O'Brien
Thumbtack knows homes so you don't have.
Matthew Mercer
To don't know the difference between matte.
Liam O'Brien
Paint, finish and satin or what that.
Matthew Mercer
Clunking sound from your dryer is.
Liam O'Brien
With Thumbtack, you don't have to be a home pro, you just have to hire one. You can hire top rated pros, see price estimates and read reviews all on the app.
Matthew Mercer
Download today hey there Critter Podcast listeners. We have a special new membership service at Beacon TV where you get early access to all new podcast episodes, including Critical Role. For the first time ever, Beacon members also get things like live event presales, merch discounts, access to a private community discord, and new exclusive series like Critical Role Cooldown. Think of it as our digital critical role and head on over to Beacon TV to check it out for yourself and start a seven day free trial. Thank you so much for your support for being a podcast listener and for being a part of our community.
Ashley Johnson
Hey there Critters. This is Ashley Johnson and Telus and Jeffe and we're popping in here to talk about our new podcast on Beacon, Weird Kids.
Liam O'Brien
In this series, we're diving into our lives as former child actors, from unraveling our eccentric upbringings to embracing all the delightfully odd interests we still have.
Ashley Johnson
Today, we're covering so many topics like antique toys, taxidermy, Japanese pop culture, and honestly, anything else we come up with.
Liam O'Brien
Weird Kids is available exclusively on Beacon, but good news, we're offering a one month free trial on Beacon TV so you can take a look before you become a member. Just use the code weirdosacon TV to start the trial.
Ashley Johnson
You can also find fellow weirdos by following the series on our heirdkids pod, Instagram and using the hashtag weirdkids.
Liam O'Brien
So to all the misfits, outcasts and weirdos out there, come take a seat at our table and celebrate all things unconventional, nostalgic and wonderfully weird. Welcome to Weird Kids.
Ashley Johnson
New episodes release every Tuesday.
Liam O'Brien
Hey there, it's Liam o' Brien. And welcome to the Critical Role Podcast network. We're stoked you're here and thanks for making our stories part of your day. You're listening to part one of this episode right now and part two will arrive this upcoming Tuesday. If you'd rather listen to the full episode right now and without any ads, consider becoming a Beacon member. You'll receive access to exclusive content discounts at all our online Critical Role shops, exclusive pre sales for live events and much more. Start your seven day free trial today at Beacon tv. Well, that should cover it. Now let's dive into the adventure.
Marisha Ray
Critters. Are you ready? Please welcome to the stage, Matthew Marshall.
Matthew Mercer
Hello. My goodness, look at this crowd tonight. Oh, wow. Welcome, friends one and all to what is likely going to be a very unique evening. But it is my pleasure to be here. I am your GM for this chaos of the night, Matthew Mercer. But you who are here tonight have helped guide how this story will unveil to a degree by deciding which characters our players this evening will be stepping into. Beginning with the first player reveal of tonight, you voted to see if either Keyleth or Beauregard would be inhabited for tonight's adventure and you decided upon by a very narrow margin, Beauregard. Marisha Ray, ladies and gentlemen.
Ashley Johnson
Come on, come on, come on.
Matthew Mercer
Thank you for joining us, Marisa.
Ashley Johnson
Thank you.
Matthew Mercer
The second choice that you all made collectively this evening involves what the next player's character will be. The choice between Grog Strongjaw or Chetney Po. Your votes tonight decided upon Grudge Strongjaw. Let's bring to the stage Travis Willingham, ladies and gentlemen.
Marisha Ray
Yes.
Sam Riegel
Holy.
Matthew Mercer
We're already at some energy tonight. I love this. Up next, friends, the third player of the night had the choice that you guided between two characters. We had Kingsley versus Ashton and you decided with your votes it would be Kingsley. Taliesin Jaffe. Welcome. Bloody hell.
Liam O'Brien
Yes.
Marisha Ray
This is going to be bloody for you.
Liam O'Brien
I'm.
Matthew Mercer
Welcome to the table, buddy. The fourth choice you helped us guide this night was between this next player's two characters, Caleb Widowgast and Orym of the Arashari. Two very different characters. And you decided tonight game would have Caleb Widowgast. Liam o' Brien, please come to the stage.
Marisha Ray
Look at all you beautiful bastards.
Liam O'Brien
Let's go.
Matthew Mercer
Next up you had a choice between two also very different characters through Fred Bernardo or Breus Doomseed. Both horny in different ways and your sort of horniness to be chosen tonight was Veth Bernardo. Sam Riegel, please come to the stage, buddy.
Marisha Ray
Hey.
Matthew Mercer
I regret everything narrowed down to our last two players. You had a choice for this next player's two characters between Pike Trickfoot and Fern Calloway. And your votes have decided upon Fern Calloway. Ashley Johnson, please join us on the stage.
Ashley Johnson
Hello, my darling.
Matthew Mercer
And for our final player to join us, you had a terrible choice to make between Vex' Ahlia and Jester. And through your votes, by a landslide, you decided upon Jester Lovell. Laura Bailey, please join. Welcome, players.
Ashley Johnson
Hi.
Taliesin Jaffe
Hello.
Ashley Johnson
Hey, Tails.
Matthew Mercer
Oh, man, this is going to be fun, fun, fun.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, my gosh.
Marisha Ray
I was under the impression that we were all dressing as our favorite Chicago characters.
Liam O'Brien
Oh, is that not the case?
Marisha Ray
I feel like I'm.
Matthew Mercer
Well, Chicago voted for him, so I think it is technically.
Marisha Ray
Hey, bratwurst.
Matthew Mercer
Okay, thank you all so much for joining us. We're super excited to have you. But before we jump into tonight's game, we have some quick announcements to get through. Marisha, I believe you've got a quick note to give as well.
Taliesin Jaffe
I do. I have a very quick one. You know, you guys, you're special. You're here with us. You're live in person, in the flesh. But there are so many amazing fans who aren't gonna see this for some time. So don't be a dick. Don't post spoilers. You know, you're about to have a magical evening and we want the people at home to be able to experience that same joy in real time. So try not to tweet anything that you might think is a spoiler. If you're like, is this a spoiler? It's probably a spoiler. So that is my one request. Thank you so much. You're all beautiful.
Matthew Mercer
I do believe. That concludes our announcement.
Ashley Johnson
Chicago, are you ready? Oh, boy, oh, boy, oh boy.
Matthew Mercer
Let's go ahead and jump into tonight's one shot of Critical Role.
Sam Riegel
This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. It's great to see how society's view on therapy has evolved over the years. What was once kept behind closed doors is now something many people openly discuss and value. But there's still progress to be made and many individuals still avoid seeking support due to fear of judgment. So this mental health awareness month, let's encourage everyone to take care of their well being and break the stigma. If you or someone you know is looking for a therapist, consider BetterHelp online therapy. BetterHelp has over 10 years of experience matching people with the right therapist from their diverse network of more than 30,000 licensed therapists. Plus, BetterHelp is fully online, making therapy affordable and convenient, serving over 5 million people worldwide. You can even switch therapists anytime at no extra cost. We're all better with help. Visit betterhelp.com criticalrole to get 10% off your first month. That's betterhelph e l-p.com criticalrole what does the future hold for business? Ask nine experts and you'll get nine different answers. Will interest rates rise or fall? Go up or down? It's too difficult to predict, so the best thing you can do for your business is prepare for anything. And netsuite by Oracle is an incredible resource to help future proof your organization. Over 41,000 businesses are ready for what's next with NetSuite rank the number one cloud ERP. NetSuite can bring accounting, financial management, inventory, HR and more into one fluid platform with a unified business management suite. There's one source of truth giving you the visibility and control you need to make quick decisions. Whether your company is earning millions or even hundreds of millions, NetSuite helps you respond to immediate challenges and seize your biggest opportunities. Speaking of opportunity, download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning at netsuite.com/critical role. The guide is free to you at netsuite.com criticalrole netsuite.com criticalrole Parents of tweens.
Marisha Ray
If you're familiar with far off, drop.
Ashley Johnson
Off dad, stop, stop.
Marisha Ray
Stop right here or get DMs about what's for D? You may be experiencing tween milestones for.
Ashley Johnson
Your son or daughter.
Marisha Ray
These can start at age 9.
Ashley Johnson
HPV vaccination, a type of cancer prevention against certain HPV related cancers, can start then, too.
Marisha Ray
For most, HPV clears on its own, but for those who don't clear the virus, it can cause certain cancers later in life. Embrace this phase.
Ashley Johnson
Help protect them in the next.
Marisha Ray
Ask their doctor today about HPV vaccination brought to you by Merck.
Matthew Mercer
Kick off summer with Memorial Day savings at Lowe's right now, get five Scott's.
Liam O'Brien
Naturescapes and a half cubic foot mulch.
Marisha Ray
Bags for just $10.
Matthew Mercer
Plus get up to 40% off select.
Marisha Ray
Major appliances and save an extra $50 on every $500 you spend on select major appliances. $396 or more Lowe's we help you.
Matthew Mercer
Save valid through 528 mold shopper excludes Alaska and Hawaii.
Marisha Ray
Selection varies by location while supplies last.
Sam Riegel
See lowe's.com for more details.
Matthew Mercer
It's only been months since the historical event known as the Ctathiosis transpired the very pantheon of Exandria vanishing from the realm to be reborn in mortal form to escape the hunger of Predathos, the God Eater. In the aftermath of this chaos, many facets of society and their reaction to to adjust as seen in both robust and mysterious ways. Refugees from the red moon Ruidus seek to explore their new home and integrate with the societies that will have them, while those that remain amongst their crimson wind sheared homeland work to rebuild Rhuidian society either as an opportunity for a better future or to reclaim the proud tyranny of the Weave mind. On Exandria, the many temples of Vasselheim developed protocols to seek out the reborn deities desperate to establish counsel and guidance within the divine before darker minds and interests can snuff out the light of the Primes. As they discover their lives and purpose, the legendary protectors of the realm Vox Machina wrestle with the responsibility of their titles. In a world now thrown into into a new age of growing change and chaos, the subversive guardians known as the Mighty Nein work to quell dangerous opportunism. In a time where ancient dangers grow unsealed alongside new powers seeking to seize the vacuum, a complicated chosen called Bell's Hells flee from the most zealous factions of Vasselheim and deep worship labeled by some as heretics and criminals of the doctrines of the faithful. And it's in these times where ancient magic and arcane seals of old remain broken in the wake of the Malleus Solstice. Sometimes overwhelming power finds those whom even fate might deem dangerously unworthy. And with that we come to Whitestone.
Ashley Johnson
Laura Bailey Long of a pause.
Matthew Mercer
Here in the later evening of the beautiful valley that surrounds the city of Whitestone. The shaded shapes of the alabaster sierras visible from beyond the windows. Here in the war room of Castle Whitestone, the heroes Vox Machina gather amongst allies circling this central table. Amongst them Sean Gilmore, Lady Elora Vysoren, Lady Kima of Vord, and Cassandra de Rolo as they discuss how best to deal with this new age and the adaptation of those who live near and far. As Cassandra slams her hand on the table. Friends, best we can hear in these spaces, most of Tal' Dorei is still rife with misinformation and misunderstanding. There is a challenge of how best to make people feel comfortable, to not let panic ensue. And I'm going to be honest, outside of us here within this city, most people look up to you. The protectors of the realm we ask you and Lady Allura. Of course everyone asks me. We think we might have a plan for locally in Whitestone. But what do you think is best across tal' Dorei?
Taliesin Jaffe
I think it's gonna take some time for people to get used to this new normal.
Liam O'Brien
Whatever this new normal is at this point where this power now lies. I mean, is it worth just admitting that? Time will tell.
Marisha Ray
I take the feedbag off of my mouth.
Liam O'Brien
Ah, these oats are so good.
Matthew Mercer
Oh, for those who weren't there, Scanlan turned into a centaur because he's an asshole.
Marisha Ray
I can help by penning some new.
Liam O'Brien
Epic songs and legends that could explain.
Marisha Ray
To everybody that there's nothing to fear.
Liam O'Brien
With the God's absence, that they're still.
Marisha Ray
Still here, in spirit and in intention, if not physically present, beyond the veil. And, you know, I think that should.
Liam O'Brien
Allay some worry, babe.
Ashley Johnson
You don't have to, Winnie.
Marisha Ray
I know I don't have to, Winnie. I also don't need a feed bag. I have hands. But it's just part of my, you know, aesthetic now. It's my aura.
Ashley Johnson
You know, horses have a long snout. That's why they use a feed bag. It makes it easier to do.
Liam O'Brien
I was just hoping it was a Gax everywhere.
Marisha Ray
Clearly it doesn't work.
Liam O'Brien
Vax stands out of the spotlight off to the side.
Marisha Ray
Oh, shit.
Liam O'Brien
Watching his family and is immensely happy seeing that nothing has changed.
Ashley Johnson
Honestly, though, Scanlan, I think you're onto something. Inspiration is what people need.
Liam O'Brien
Hope.
Ashley Johnson
Hope. Exactly.
Matthew Mercer
Sean Gilmore kind of leans forward. I couldn't agree with you more. Honestly, with the help of a few quite accomplished mages, we could hop you on a rapid tour through tal' Dorei. You just have to turn these songs around quickly. You are a accomplished bard, aren't you?
Marisha Ray
I could get to work on it.
Liam O'Brien
Soon, but I'm gonna need help.
Marisha Ray
What rhymes with Changebringer?
Liam O'Brien
Humdinger.
Matthew Mercer
Oh, okay.
Marisha Ray
That's a start.
Matthew Mercer
How about you, Grog? Do you have anything to add to the possibilities of how best we should. Mr. What was your title again?
Laura Bailey
De Gran Poobar De Doink. Of All Disen. Dads. Yeah, that's right. Put some fucking respect on it. I also think what we do going forward is very important. I have to take a shit.
Matthew Mercer
It's a. That. That exact moment, a strange buzzing sensation fills the air and this crackling sound begins to spark like some strange arcane resonance.
Liam O'Brien
Grog, is.
Marisha Ray
Is that a fart? What is that?
Laura Bailey
I'm not sure. You're never supposed to Trust him though.
Matthew Mercer
At which point there is an impact. And Grog is gone.
Marisha Ray
Buddy.
Ashley Johnson
Is that.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh no.
Marisha Ray
He really had. He really had to go.
Ashley Johnson
Where'd he go?
Marisha Ray
Where'd he go?
Ashley Johnson
Where'd he go?
Taliesin Jaffe
Where is the Deck of Many Things? Is this a gate? Not again.
Matthew Mercer
And we pull away from Whitestone. What the fuck are you doing?
Marisha Ray
What's happening?
Matthew Mercer
As we now come into some distant Xemnian subterranean tunnels deep beneath the city of Rexxentrum. An underground cavern network where powerful families of old would flee attack or persecution. But has recently been rumored to be used by the Cult of the Cloaked Serpent even in their absence. And infiltrating guilds across the city and the empire itself. And it's here we see the mighty Nein quietly and carefully delving into these dark dank tunnels.
Ashley Johnson
What are we doing here again?
Marisha Ray
I don't honestly remember.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh, we went over this. We are in search of these like cult members. It's just follow along.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. Okay.
Liam O'Brien
We cover this at length. Keep your voices down.
Ashley Johnson
I am. I. It is down. Caleb.
Matthew Mercer
How I think survived.
Liam O'Brien
Like people around us beyond me.
Marisha Ray
Oh, that's right.
Matthew Mercer
I didn't.
Liam O'Brien
Well done.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, I'm so glad you're here, King.
Liam O'Brien
Ah, thank you for calling by the way.
Marisha Ray
This is ridiculously fun.
Matthew Mercer
It's about this time you hear this distant slithering sound like some sort of heavy darkened scales scraping across stone. And the faint blue glow begins to emanate from around the carved stone edges. As you watch a massive spectral Naga type serpent creature shriek its way around the corner. Its hood extending and its odd deeply set humanoid eyes. And its semi ethereal form glancing back at the its massive fangs bared.
Marisha Ray
You stride where you should not. New food.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh cool. It talks. They made snakes worse.
Ashley Johnson
I'm gonna take out my scald saber.
Marisha Ray
Gimme.
Matthew Mercer
It rears back, strikes out at you. Yasha. That. And it misses with a natural five. You catch it there, your blade in the middle of its jaws. And keep the daggers at bay as it pushes into you. Its strength is more than you expected. It pushes you against the stone. And you feel the full weight of it pushing against your body. And its odd ghostly breath. This mix of rot and acrid air. What are the rest of you doing?
Liam O'Brien
Running right at it to take a slash?
Matthew Mercer
As you all dart inward, this strange crackling sensation begins to fill the air to the point where the serpent itself seems to draw away. Confused.
Taliesin Jaffe
Caleb. Is this you?
Liam O'Brien
I cast? Comprehend languages?
Matthew Mercer
It's about that moment that Caleb vanishes.
Taliesin Jaffe
Where'd he go?
Marisha Ray
Where'd he go? Where'd he go?
Taliesin Jaffe
He's fine. He's fine. He probably dropped me off.
Matthew Mercer
Caleb.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah. He fell.
Matthew Mercer
Bo is gone.
Ashley Johnson
What's going on?
Marisha Ray
I don't know.
Matthew Mercer
J's gone.
Marisha Ray
Whoa.
Laura Bailey
That's my lady.
Matthew Mercer
Kingsley's gone.
Marisha Ray
No. Ford. Use your strength to keep me here. You son of a.
Matthew Mercer
Son is like.
Marisha Ray
Well, this is fortuitous. Less meals, but here. Easier pickings.
Ashley Johnson
Wait.
Marisha Ray
This was only the.
Ashley Johnson
The two of us here. I. I think I'm still here.
Marisha Ray
I'm still here.
Ashley Johnson
Thank God for.
Laura Bailey
It'S just swords. Yours and mine.
Ashley Johnson
We got this.
Matthew Mercer
It charges towards you as we pull out of the darkened shadows from underneath Rex and Fun.
Marisha Ray
They'll be fine.
Ashley Johnson
You're gonna survive. They'll survive that.
Matthew Mercer
And we focus now instead on snow powder Dappled dense forest somewhere in the Vasper timberlands of Issylra. Beyond the burning lights and braziers and torches of Vasselheim Bells Hells flees pursuit from a crew of unhappy faithful. A troop of bounty hunters with two judicators at the set have been following you for days as your staff of traversal hasn't been able to regain enough charges to free you. And we find Bell's Hells breathless and for the moment not hearing their pursuers amongst the night cold air.
Marisha Ray
It's out of charges. I can't get into a charge up any faster.
Liam O'Brien
DM with a roll of a natural 20 for a 33. Do I sense any threats in the woods around us?
Matthew Mercer
As the rest of you kind of take a moment to listen and exhale. Silent darkness. Orym you pick up this distant crunching sound of the underbrush of the forest and fresh snowfall powder. Just ever so quietly.
Ashley Johnson
I think we're safe here.
Liam O'Brien
Hey guys.
Ashley Johnson
It's colder than a witch's tit out here. Can we please just figure out a way to. It really is. Yeah.
Taliesin Jaffe
I kind of like it.
Liam O'Brien
They got wildlife or a problem?
Ashley Johnson
What?
Liam O'Brien
Yeah, something out there.
Ashley Johnson
Oh no. They're back.
Matthew Mercer
There is a blast of bright golden light that emits from the ground, surrounding you all as a divine glyph.
Ashley Johnson
Oh no.
Matthew Mercer
Forms in the snow and blasts up where I need you all to make wisdom saving throws.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, no, wait.
Taliesin Jaffe
I don't have laud. And I'm pulled up. I don't think it's going to do. It's not good anyway.
Matthew Mercer
Roll the dice.
Taliesin Jaffe
I. I rolled a three.
Ashley Johnson
I'm sure that's not good.
Taliesin Jaffe
I rolled a two. So witches be ditzes.
Ashley Johnson
Wait, is this a. Is this a spell Or a magical effect.
Matthew Mercer
It is a magical effect. So you would have advantage.
Marisha Ray
Dirty 20. Oh, a little better.
Liam O'Brien
Ooh. 22.
Matthew Mercer
22.
Ashley Johnson
Dirty 20.
Matthew Mercer
Great. All right. This table. Fine.
Ashley Johnson
We're good. We're good.
Matthew Mercer
It blasts and you knock away the impact as it tries to to bind itself to your physical body and hold you in place.
Marisha Ray
19 for the sexy Minotaur.
Matthew Mercer
All right, Sexy minotaur. You also shrug it off. You know this game.
Marisha Ray
Moo.
Liam O'Brien
Dirty tent.
Matthew Mercer
Dirty tent. Ashton Laudna, Imogen. You seize up and feel your body now battle against you and hold you in place. You hear the cracking of a nearby tree as it splinters. And what looks like a whole upper section of a fur just come crashing through, sending snow and nettles everywhere. And there you can see, just across the bit of moonlight that's reflecting off the snow, the mask of Adjudicator as it slams its fists together. At that point, a crackle in the air begins and Fearne is gone.
Marisha Ray
Shit. It's that devil come to collect.
Matthew Mercer
As we pull away from Isilra, I would like you all to leave the stage now. Friends, all of you, wherever it is in Exandria that you may have found yourself, this odd gossamer silver curtain seems to surround you.
Marisha Ray
You.
Matthew Mercer
And you feel pulled from your lives, your worries, your thoughts, and instead find yourselves sitting welcomingly so in a soft, warm, beautifully lit theater. You all sit there in your chairs with an expectation of. Of entertainment. That anticipation itself brimming up from beneath your stomach, that adrenaline beginning to spike. The promise of something extraordinary, something violent, something unique and entertaining has brought you here tonight to this strange, unknown dimension beyond the realm. And it is here, friends, you discover yourselves waiting for a proper night of entertainment.
Marisha Ray
Sam. Good evening, everyone. I'm sure you're all wondering what's going on. Well, allow me to explain. My name is Malvolio Contreras. But you can just call me the MC it's just a game A little sterilia A touch of luck Some time to kill so come along, don't be afraid let's sing a song let's misbehave the rules are mine and so's their fate now you call the shots they took the baits they're out of their depth oh, what a shame so let's have a laugh and feed the flame no resurrections or clever plays it seems their plot armor seen better days.
Ashley Johnson
Please.
Marisha Ray
Get out of here. Your faves. Allow me to introduce my sidekick, Murder Matt. Who gives a.
Matthew Mercer
What's a story without some pain?
Marisha Ray
I'm Your host, he's insane. I love the sound of a hero screaming.
Matthew Mercer
Wakey, wakey, you're not dreaming.
Marisha Ray
Get over here. So roll the dice. Hey. And watch them shatter. Live, laugh or die.
Matthew Mercer
It doesn't matter.
Marisha Ray
Fuck your face. Don't you want to watch them burrow?
Matthew Mercer
You know it, bosses.
Marisha Ray
Your face. Stop the show. Hello, everyone. Oh, what TPK you want to hear it? You want to say it? Oh, you've just walked right into my beautiful evening. See, this is my own little pocket dimension. And nothing gives me more power than audience applause. So let me hear it again. T, P, K. T, P K. Oh, that feels so nice. I think this is gonna go just fine.
Matthew Mercer
Oh, I think so, too, boss.
Laura Bailey
I'm real excited.
Marisha Ray
You see, me and my sidekick here, Merty, have been together for years. Oh, you look better than ever.
Matthew Mercer
Oh, speak for yourself. I'm just following in your lead, boss.
Marisha Ray
I love to see it. And we've got a special evening planned for you. You see, my favorite thing to do is put people through their trials and watch their tribulations. See, you love to lift up your heroes, and I love to drag them down. Nothing's better than seeing your faves. And by the way, that name of the song was fuck your faves as in favorites, not face. I know you somehow of. You heard that. I know it. I know the minds of this audience. So we're going to mix things up tonight because I know there's nothing a fandom loves more than sudden change. The top half of this show is going to be something a little different. And trust me, it's going to be fun. Don't worry. And you're all a part of it. I promise. So, Murdy, what do we have planned for them tonight?
Matthew Mercer
Oh, we're gonna bring out your chosen heroes that we yanked from the realm. We're gonna put them through a series of challenges, see what their capabilities are, set them against each other. And whoever loses, well, they get hurt. If they lose really badly, they get really hurt.
Marisha Ray
Ooh, I love it when he gets excited. When he gets excited, I get excited. Not like that. We have a few toadies backstage.
Matthew Mercer
All right?
Marisha Ray
It's going to be a night like that. We've got toadies backstage helping us out with this evening, so I'd like to check. Are any of our contestants back from their magic teleportation just yet?
Matthew Mercer
You know, I think I sense an arrival right about now. Let's go ahead and. Yeah, let's bring in some Beauregard Lionette.
Marisha Ray
How about that? Yes, yes.
Taliesin Jaffe
What the is this?
Marisha Ray
You look fantastic. Oh, would you mind having. I know.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh, it's got branding. Oh, gross.
Marisha Ray
Corporate shills are one of my favorite things.
Taliesin Jaffe
Who the fuck are you?
Marisha Ray
Oh, I'm your host. Don't worry about the details. You can just call me mc.
Taliesin Jaffe
I hate this.
Marisha Ray
Good. Feel free to take a seat. Murdy. Who else have we got on the dock here?
Matthew Mercer
We're pulling a. A very esteemed, very well known figure from exandrian history. Big tall fella, big bushy beard and an unstoppable intellect. Let's see if we can't get ourselves a Mr. Grog. Strong jaw is arriving. Right.
Laura Bailey
Man, I gotta go boom boom more often.
Marisha Ray
Hey, I know you.
Ashley Johnson
I know you.
Marisha Ray
I know you.
Taliesin Jaffe
What did you do?
Laura Bailey
I took a.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh.
Matthew Mercer
Take a seat right over there, Mr. Strong. Stone Jaw.
Laura Bailey
Strong Jaw.
Matthew Mercer
There it is. Okay, got it. Whatever.
Marisha Ray
Who's up next?
Matthew Mercer
Up next, we got plucked out of the space in the ether. A complicated figure. One who's seen quite a few cycles of life on the realm. And the most recent one kind of took over the pirate space. So we got a Kingsley in the pipeline coming to the stage here.
Marisha Ray
What? Oh, look at you.
Liam O'Brien
You must be the rulers of the tacky dimension.
Marisha Ray
Well bloody done. What is this?
Taliesin Jaffe
I hate it.
Marisha Ray
I hate.
Matthew Mercer
Hey, don't make fun of that. My mind made that clearly.
Taliesin Jaffe
At least we're together.
Matthew Mercer
I like it.
Laura Bailey
You're purple. He's purple.
Taliesin Jaffe
So are you, dummy.
Liam O'Brien
You know that? Who's happy?
Taliesin Jaffe
Explain later.
Marisha Ray
Bloody hell, Marty.
Matthew Mercer
Oh, this is getting more and more ridiculous as it goes.
Marisha Ray
I'm so excited.
Matthew Mercer
All right. Looks like the next hero, the compediary total party kill is a gentleman known for his. Well, for his stinkiness. Let's be honest, his bodily upkeep stink. Historically known to be a little under par. If we could bring out Caleb Widow, guys, right about now. Boom.
Liam O'Brien
Oh, of course. You are here too, eh?
Marisha Ray
Hi.
Liam O'Brien
What is going on? What is this?
Taliesin Jaffe
I think some sort of sick. Yeah, a game it looks like for their expense. I don't know.
Liam O'Brien
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Marisha Ray
Yes, yes, it's around 6,000. Have a seat, please.
Matthew Mercer
Ain't that cute? He's doing crowd work.
Marisha Ray
I know. It looks like he has cats.
Matthew Mercer
Sit down.
Liam O'Brien
Sit.
Matthew Mercer
Sorry, boss. Is your show.
Marisha Ray
No, you're doing just fine. I'll just chit chat with them and bring out the next one.
Matthew Mercer
All right. Well, kind of in the theme of this one. He had a companion with their own unique journey. A mother, a fighter, a lover and a camp Counselor. Apparently, if we can go ahead and have Beth Branado arrive at our stage.
Taliesin Jaffe
I know, I know. Yeah, I know, I know.
Marisha Ray
We know.
Matthew Mercer
Seats. Your seats. Over here.
Marisha Ray
Come on, sit down. It's all right. It's all right.
Matthew Mercer
You're going to be fine. Maybe.
Laura Bailey
Sounds like a velociraptor.
Matthew Mercer
Welcome.
Liam O'Brien
I want a hat.
Marisha Ray
Well, what do you think?
Ashley Johnson
Ah.
Marisha Ray
All right. We don't have time for this bit for. It isn't Ford. Is it here? Yes. I'm good. That's the spirit.
Matthew Mercer
I love this. We're getting close.
Marisha Ray
Almost there.
Matthew Mercer
All right. Our second to last arrival for the competition of the night is one who walks between many contracts, A woman who gets around in the most political of ways, I'd say. Fern Calloway, please.
Ashley Johnson
Hello? Hello.
Marisha Ray
Hi.
Ashley Johnson
Hi. Oh, I know you. I know you. I know you three.
Taliesin Jaffe
Hi.
Ashley Johnson
I don't know you two. Wait, what?
Marisha Ray
What?
Ashley Johnson
What is this?
Marisha Ray
Hi.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, hi. What is this? This is hideous.
Laura Bailey
This is called purple.
Ashley Johnson
Well, I know the color. It's just really not flattering. Oh, this is ugly.
Liam O'Brien
I don't know.
Marisha Ray
It's.
Ashley Johnson
What's it. Oh, my God. Oh, thank you very much. What? What? What's happening? I don't. I have to go back to my friends. They're gonna die if I don't stay with them. Can you send me back? I'm gonna go back.
Marisha Ray
Well, no, not right now. Would you mind? And then suddenly, she's glued to her chair.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, what the fuck?
Marisha Ray
Welcome to the show.
Ashley Johnson
Oh.
Marisha Ray
How are you gonna pee?
Ashley Johnson
I guess I just gotta do it in my seat.
Marisha Ray
If you make me a pee. Pinky promised that you'll stay for the first few rounds. I'll unglue your tush.
Taliesin Jaffe
First few rounds of what?
Ashley Johnson
Yes. Thank you. To the hot one. First few rounds of what?
Marisha Ray
It's not the Q and A portion anymore. That was two hours ago.
Ashley Johnson
All right, thank you. Swear.
Marisha Ray
You're free.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, thank God. My ass is free. All right.
Liam O'Brien
I like that.
Matthew Mercer
On that note, our final contestant for the night in your games, Master, is a. Oh, I think it's gonna be a real wildcard night with this one. A follower of a strange idol beyond the realms of the divine. A touch of Fae magic sits around her. A bit of water escape and a whole lot of chaos. Let's go ahead and bring Jessa Lavore to the stage, please.
Marisha Ray
What the. Hi.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, my gosh. What is happening here? Hi. Oh, my God. I remember you. Oh, my God. I love you so much. You're coming to the wedding, right? Yes. I'm coming to the wedding. Thank you so much for the invite. What's happening?
Taliesin Jaffe
They're probably dead.
Ashley Johnson
Is this Octi?
Marisha Ray
Hi.
Ashley Johnson
What is happening?
Marisha Ray
Ms. Jester, look over there at your seat and poof, There's a pile of donuts and cookies right in front.
Ashley Johnson
This is the best. Hi. Who are you?
Marisha Ray
Oh, my name's in the mc. It's so nice to meet you, too.
Ashley Johnson
In the middle of a fight, you know, you left my fiance there. I don't know, Maybe. Maybe should bring Jester.
Marisha Ray
He's holding us, not indulge the crazy.
Matthew Mercer
Pleasure to meet you. I've heard so much.
Ashley Johnson
Seriously, you should bring him here because he would be super.
Matthew Mercer
Maybe later. We got it. We got a thing. We got.
Marisha Ray
These are the bad guys.
Ashley Johnson
What do you think? Bring her fiance because it looks like we're short on this side. Come over here. This is the Mighty Nine side.
Marisha Ray
Come over here.
Taliesin Jaffe
Over there.
Ashley Johnson
Are you doing. Oh, I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. I'm staying in my chair.
Marisha Ray
That's a good point. Hello, audience. What do you think? We're all assembled. We feel good. Yes?
Matthew Mercer
Yes.
Taliesin Jaffe
No, no, no. Chester, don't indulge them.
Marisha Ray
Oh, yes, indulge them. Indulge them. They're very attractive, you know.
Ashley Johnson
My mama.
Laura Bailey
Look at all the head.
Ashley Johnson
I've always wanted to be up here.
Liam O'Brien
A question, please. Eine Fraga. Who are all of these people?
Marisha Ray
These people?
Matthew Mercer
Wonderful Exandrians and all kinds of folks who have been affected by history far and wide in events of recent times. And everyone's a little on edge. And people that are on edge need relief.
Marisha Ray
Souls from all around the world realm. What about you? What region of Exandria are you from? The Shattered Teeth. Yes. What. What city do you hail from? Here in Exandria. Or the Outer Counties. Ah, the mystical realm of Illinois.
Laura Bailey
I never heard of that one.
Marisha Ray
That's cold. And tonight we have a challenge.
Ashley Johnson
Some of them dressed up as us, though. That's weird. Hi.
Marisha Ray
Oh, maybe they're. They're like fans of. Of yours. Maybe you.
Ashley Johnson
One of them is dressed up as my friend Opal.
Marisha Ray
Hi.
Liam O'Brien
All of you. Rise up. Rise up together. Raise. Rise up and help us escape from this place.
Taliesin Jaffe
Agreed. Do not be part of the problem.
Marisha Ray
Or. Oh, yes.
Matthew Mercer
Are they all here to watch you suffer?
Ashley Johnson
Excited?
Marisha Ray
The energy in Illinois is palpable. Don't worry.
Liam O'Brien
Our enemies. Enemies all.
Marisha Ray
Wait. We have to defeat all of them.
Ashley Johnson
We could do it.
Marisha Ray
I could take the 20 up here.
Liam O'Brien
I didn't ask how big the arena is. I said I cast fireball.
Matthew Mercer
As you cast fireball. The bead of arcane flame ejects from your fingers and curls into a strange circular motion before you. Before it evaporates ineffectually and dispelled.
Ashley Johnson
Then I gotta do anything. It happens to four.
Liam O'Brien
That normally never happens.
Matthew Mercer
About that time you notice in the pattern that your flames are extinguished. You see the MC's finger swirl and snuff it.
Marisha Ray
They all say that. No, no. Feel free to do whatever you like. It's only more entertainment for our friends. But if you'd indulge me, I'd love to play a few games with you. And maybe if you do well, you can find your way out of this place. Maybe.
Matthew Mercer
Maybe.
Marisha Ray
Maybe.
Laura Bailey
Okay.
Liam O'Brien
Too quickly. If this is what it looks like, there's got to be a prize.
Marisha Ray
There's got to be some.
Liam O'Brien
Something make it worth our while.
Marisha Ray
Very good point. Thank you. Think of something you value more than anything. Perhaps your life.
Laura Bailey
Ao.
Marisha Ray
We'll see what we can do later on in the show. Concession stands opened at intermission. All right.
Liam O'Brien
I've already got one.
Marisha Ray
Are you ready? Mty oh, I am always ready. Buzz. What do you say we play the very first game? I'll give you the title and Murray will lay it out for you. Our first game is burst your bubble.
Matthew Mercer
A fine test of strength around the realm to see just how mighty some.
Marisha Ray
Of you cats are.
Matthew Mercer
We have on this side the red.
Marisha Ray
Team, this side the blue team.
Matthew Mercer
And you are against each other for the remainder of this game.
Ashley Johnson
He's so huge.
Taliesin Jaffe
Also, why are there only three of them? Like I can tell you for a fact, this is out balanced.
Laura Bailey
I don't know about that.
Ashley Johnson
Listen, we're gonna be okay. I believe you.
Matthew Mercer
We never promised balance. We never promised fairness. We just promised entertainment. So each side choose someone to represent your strongest person. And I'd like you to make a strength check.
Taliesin Jaffe
I think it's just. He's probably just strength check.
Ashley Johnson
I mean, I can't wait. We're doing strength check. I think I am just throwing.
Laura Bailey
Do I get advantage by rage?
Marisha Ray
Want me to do this?
Matthew Mercer
No.
Laura Bailey
Define.
Taliesin Jaffe
I have faith.
Marisha Ray
Oh, God.
Taliesin Jaffe
Wait, so we're all rolling?
Liam O'Brien
Yeah.
Matthew Mercer
Just whoever's. Whoever is going to be helming this.
Liam O'Brien
Caleb suddenly turns into a giant orange amber colored ape.
Ashley Johnson
Are you thinking for me?
Marisha Ray
I can do it. I can do this? Yes.
Ashley Johnson
Well, we don't even know what it is.
Marisha Ray
I don't know what it is actually. What are we doing? We're having a great time. What are you doing?
Liam O'Brien
You're so strong. I really want to see. See what you can do. I believe in you.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, hello, little.
Liam O'Brien
Take the first one for the team. We're counting on you.
Marisha Ray
All right. Sure.
Liam O'Brien
It's like putting a rabbit cave.
Laura Bailey
Did you roll yet?
Ashley Johnson
I rolled. Wait, are you the strongest firm? No, I don't think so.
Laura Bailey
I took the monkey ears.
Ashley Johnson
Thirteen for me.
Marisha Ray
Nine. Nine for me.
Laura Bailey
Sixteen for me.
Matthew Mercer
Wait, are we all rolling?
Marisha Ray
What's happening? No.
Matthew Mercer
Only one person on each team is supposed to roll.
Laura Bailey
Here you go.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, wait.
Matthew Mercer
It looks like they picked on their.
Marisha Ray
Side a little outside of the rules.
Matthew Mercer
That might be a penalty later.
Ashley Johnson
Wait, wait. No, no, no.
Matthew Mercer
It's fine. You've chosen the monkey.
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Matthew Mercer
He's bursting bubbles on your side and veth Bernardo, would you roll?
Marisha Ray
I did.
Taliesin Jaffe
I rolled a nine.
Matthew Mercer
Perfect.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, nine.
Matthew Mercer
We could have our stage strange associates come in and set the scene for our.
Marisha Ray
You know what that means. Toadies. Bring out the props. Props.
Liam O'Brien
Oh, sother big props.
Ashley Johnson
Why are you a monkey?
Marisha Ray
Why is he a monkey?
Laura Bailey
He turned into a giant ape.
Liam O'Brien
Oh, he did?
Laura Bailey
Yeah. Giant ape. Caleb.
Ashley Johnson
I couldn't figure Caleb. Wow, look at that rat. This is making me a little nervous.
Laura Bailey
I can see his butt crack.
Ashley Johnson
Seriously, though, be careful.
Matthew Mercer
Now, one person from each team gets to be the holder.
Taliesin Jaffe
Who's good at holding?
Ashley Johnson
I'm very good at holding. I mean, I'm. I could hold.
Marisha Ray
Caleb can hold.
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Matthew Mercer
All right. Now, because you.
Marisha Ray
What?
Ashley Johnson
What? What's happening?
Matthew Mercer
Because the monkey, Caleb rolled so high on the strength. Not the highest possible, but pretty high. You get to use the fully inflated balloons. And because you did not, you have to use the half inflated balloons.
Ashley Johnson
Are these half inflated?
Matthew Mercer
Both teams have 60 seconds to see who pops three balloons by the two of you just sitting on them with your compatriots readying and holding them in the spot.
Marisha Ray
And the sitter may not touch their own balloon. Only the holder can hold the balloon.
Laura Bailey
They never like to touch.
Marisha Ray
Okay?
Ashley Johnson
Don't you worry. Okay, listen to me. You need to put all of your weight on it and squish the out of this balloon, okay? I'm so tired.
Marisha Ray
Difficult squeeze. I have a very ass.
Ashley Johnson
Okay, Your bony butt.
Marisha Ray
Enough strategy.
Ashley Johnson
Gotta sit and wiggle Time for our.
Marisha Ray
Very first dignified game worthy of 10 years of lore and storytelling.
Ashley Johnson
All right, all right, all right.
Marisha Ray
Marty, are you ready with the timer? Always ready, boss. On your mark, with me. Get set. Drop that ass.
Ashley Johnson
Kick him up.
Marisha Ray
Harder. Come on. Keep going. Yes. We've got one. Three if you can get the other two before time is up. You'll get a bonus. Don't quit. Don't quit. Keep going. Shoot for three. Go. Yes. Will they have time so they can find one of them? Oh, this is better than I ever thought it would be. Great.
Taliesin Jaffe
Go, go, go, go, go, go, go.
Marisha Ray
This is just bonus. This is just showing off. Now go, go. Yes. Squeeze that on. Get away, get away, get away. Last 10 seconds. Here we go. Yes. Do they have any worlds? Take them.
Ashley Johnson
Oh my God. Oh my God.
Marisha Ray
My God.
Ashley Johnson
That was exhausting.
Marisha Ray
60 seconds is a lot longer than we thought it was. Would you believe we've never rehearsed this?
Ashley Johnson
I'm exhausted. I'm so tired that we weren't even doing the popping.
Marisha Ray
It's improv, ladies and gentlemen. What was the final score? Murty, do you recall?
Matthew Mercer
It was a bit chaotic there, boss.
Marisha Ray
What, you can't do math?
Matthew Mercer
No, but the best I can ascertain, the monkey had the edge.
Liam O'Brien
What?
Ashley Johnson
Yes, the monkey did. The monkey did.
Taliesin Jaffe
It's true.
Matthew Mercer
And you're docked for cheating by removing the ch.
Ashley Johnson
Chair. Thank you. Thank you to you, sir.
Marisha Ray
I don't even get to roll a sleight of hand to see if you saw that.
Matthew Mercer
You know what? I'll allow it. The Fable of Air Bud.
Liam O'Brien
If it's not in the. If it doesn't say that.
Marisha Ray
32.
Matthew Mercer
32. Boss, I'm going to be honest. It looks like they somehow got rid of their chair halfway through the performance. And it kind of put them on a bad path. So I'm going to have to give it to red team.
Marisha Ray
Mty. Mty. You've always been my favorite rule. Cheating pays off.
Taliesin Jaffe
Yes, it does.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, is this the game we're playing?
Marisha Ray
Yeah. Yeah.
Ashley Johnson
So cheating will get you ahead.
Marisha Ray
Uhhuh.
Ashley Johnson
Let's go.
Taliesin Jaffe
Mie.
Marisha Ray
Tell them what they don't win.
Matthew Mercer
Oh. Well, friends, the victorious, they get to gloat. While the losers, well, in this realm, they get punished. And you watch.
Ashley Johnson
Punishment.
Matthew Mercer
You watch as Malvolio's hand begins to draw a massive glowing infernal flame that suddenly engulfs all three of you in horrible scarring hellfire. All three of you. Help it. Scream in resonating pain as the entire blue team takes.
Taliesin Jaffe
Now I feel bad.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, no.
Liam O'Brien
I don't know.
Ashley Johnson
Feel bad.
Taliesin Jaffe
Just a little.
Matthew Mercer
21 points of fire.
Laura Bailey
Cheating. You little piece of.
Marisha Ray
Wait on. Are we.
Ashley Johnson
Are we splitting that between us each. Each.
Taliesin Jaffe
How much?
Laura Bailey
21.
Matthew Mercer
21. What's the game called, Ms. Callaway?
Ashley Johnson
For bur and Bur Pop Burst your pop. Pop your bubble. Pop your cherry. Pop the bubbles. I don't. I forgot.
Marisha Ray
Team, team, team.
Matthew Mercer
Blue team.
Marisha Ray
Huddle up. Huddle up, Huddle up. Listen, listen, listen. You're down a players with a bit.
Ashley Johnson
Of a disadvantage, and I was very.
Marisha Ray
Sad to see you lose the last.
Ashley Johnson
Round, but we actually really won. But that's okay.
Marisha Ray
I'm going to do a little something. They can't hear us from here. All right. Okay. Now, I've shut down your magical abilities for the most part, but for the next few moments, say, the next few minutes.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah.
Marisha Ray
I'll allow you to cast a spell or two that could help each other out or hurt the other team. Now, don't hurt me. Oh, please don't hurt me.
Ashley Johnson
Wait, wait, wait, wait. Huddle up.
Laura Bailey
Question.
Ashley Johnson
Huddle up.
Laura Bailey
Do you have magic?
Ashley Johnson
I do. You don't.
Laura Bailey
You're just listening. Nope. Nothing.
Ashley Johnson
Hey, can you turn back into a person? Okay. Do you have magic?
Liam O'Brien
A little bit, yes.
Ashley Johnson
Because we can take some shots at them. Are you powerful? Are you strong?
Laura Bailey
What can you do?
Ashley Johnson
I've only seen, like, a little bit of what you can do.
Liam O'Brien
Well, I don't want to kill any of them.
Laura Bailey
I think let's not be too hasty. Killing is good.
Ashley Johnson
Do we all. Do we all take a turn?
Marisha Ray
The last game was a game of strength. And this game will be a game of. Remind me what comes after strength. You've got it right. You're all so smart. Clap for yourselves. Yay.
Matthew Mercer
Yay.
Marisha Ray
Yay. We call this next game the traveler's blessing.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, my God. Wait, are you friends with him? Does that make so much sense?
Marisha Ray
And I are just besties.
Ashley Johnson
Wait a minute. He's never. Wait, what is your name? Mc. I've never heard. Wait a minute.
Marisha Ray
I would never fit to you. Jester.
Ashley Johnson
Is this the theater that he hates on.
Marisha Ray
Oh, that's a deep cut in law beyond my paycheck. This game is called the traveler's blessing. Toadies, please bring out the prop.
Ashley Johnson
I want to do it. I volunteer as tribute.
Taliesin Jaffe
Just wait, wait. Gesture.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, my heaven.
Liam O'Brien
Oh, I've had this nightmare before.
Ashley Johnson
Now, are we supposed to sit on this? I'm unsure.
Marisha Ray
The sacred statue of the traveler. Not to be mistaken with anything else I like.
Liam O'Brien
If your traveler looks like that, you've got bigger problems than this.
Marisha Ray
Fill them in, baby. How's this game work?
Matthew Mercer
So team chooses one person to be the channel of the traveler.
Ashley Johnson
I am the traveler's channel. Give it to me.
Matthew Mercer
While two other members of the team.
Ashley Johnson
Oh.
Matthew Mercer
Get to try and toss Rings atop it. From a distance, two other members.
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Liam O'Brien
I'm seemed like more of an athlete two teams than me.
Marisha Ray
My friend of two. Have you ever done.
Taliesin Jaffe
Dexterity based, right?
Liam O'Brien
Oh, we got a rule.
Taliesin Jaffe
I'm very dexy.
Liam O'Brien
I'm pretty dexy myself.
Marisha Ray
I mean, I'm the queen of decks, but I just went, so you guys go figure it out.
Taliesin Jaffe
I think, you know you're in this too.
Matthew Mercer
I just went, oh, okay.
Taliesin Jaffe
Well, then it's me and you.
Liam O'Brien
Yeah, I was just going to do it.
Marisha Ray
Oh, my God.
Laura Bailey
Just do it.
Liam O'Brien
Fine.
Marisha Ray
Person. One person.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh, okay. Boulder.
Marisha Ray
Whom are shoes?
Matthew Mercer
There's two people.
Ashley Johnson
It's both of them.
Matthew Mercer
Two of you to roll de. All right.
Taliesin Jaffe
Okay.
Matthew Mercer
And you're two chosen over there. Roll your dexterity.
Laura Bailey
Yep, that's done. What you got natural 20?
Ashley Johnson
Yeah, baby.
Matthew Mercer
Mr. Widowgraff.
Ashley Johnson
Gorg. Gorg. Gorg. Gorg. Gorg Borg.
Liam O'Brien
It's a nine for me.
Matthew Mercer
All right, your two folks over here, roll your dexterity checks for 18 and 23.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, shit.
Matthew Mercer
I would like the natural 20 and the 23 to rollsies for me, right?
Laura Bailey
Oh, what? Let's go. Abs.
Taliesin Jaffe
12.
Laura Bailey
19.
Matthew Mercer
All right.
Laura Bailey
And so yeah, these over here.
Liam O'Brien
As grog begins to rise from his seat, I. I throw a bit of licorice into my mouth and pat him on the ass and cast haste.
Laura Bailey
Okay, I think I just got my butt grabbed.
Marisha Ray
What do you do?
Taliesin Jaffe
Have anything that can soup us up.
Marisha Ray
To soup you up?
Ashley Johnson
Yeah.
Taliesin Jaffe
You've got trick here.
Marisha Ray
Here's some alcohol.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh, that's great. That's great. Thank you.
Matthew Mercer
Now, could we please get the places of the various planes?
Marisha Ray
Come over here.
Matthew Mercer
The travel is chosen.
Marisha Ray
The two of you who rolled have a choice to make.
Laura Bailey
Okay.
Marisha Ray
You can choose between these rings. The large rings are worth one, and these.
Ashley Johnson
You look so good.
Marisha Ray
Are worth 10.
Taliesin Jaffe
10?
Ashley Johnson
Yeah. I like crazy that we both have dicks on our head. I know. So cute. Looks so cute with dick. Yeah, I love it. I really like this outfit.
Taliesin Jaffe
Yeah, I'll do the big ones too.
Ashley Johnson
It looks awesome.
Matthew Mercer
Big ones for real reach.
Marisha Ray
Just try to divvy those up.
Matthew Mercer
I actually kind of like now, because you rolled higher and because you have your haste on, you get 30 rings to throw on your side. Wow. Whoa. Your side only gets 20, but you can choose any of the small rings if you like to replace.
Ashley Johnson
You got the small. You can do it. I cast guidance.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh, I get guidance.
Ashley Johnson
I do too. I do too. I can't guide him. Touch him. You didn't touch him.
Marisha Ray
Hey, a big log over There.
Ashley Johnson
Okay, I know, but I touched him earlier with my finger. It doesn't matter. You didn't say it when you did it. Well, Chester. Okay, no, stay over. I'm gonna stay right here.
Laura Bailey
Hey, what's the thing on your helmet, by the way?
Ashley Johnson
It's a traveler.
Laura Bailey
It's a traveler.
Taliesin Jaffe
It's a dick.
Ashley Johnson
If you have a God. Listen, most of them disappointed here.
Taliesin Jaffe
He did it.
Ashley Johnson
You should talk to Lisa. Worship him. He's the coolest.
Liam O'Brien
He's not wrong.
Taliesin Jaffe
You should be, like, nimble with this, right?
Ashley Johnson
Like you're gonna get those circles right on his dick. Okay, what am I trying to do?
Taliesin Jaffe
I need. I'm gonna get these on your traveler dick.
Marisha Ray
Come back this way. It's clearly just a statue.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, yeah, like that.
Taliesin Jaffe
Like that.
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Liam O'Brien
All right, grand pooba, you can do this. These things. Things are pretty small, so you should have no problem.
Marisha Ray
Oh, shit.
Ashley Johnson
Hold on. I broke my helmet.
Marisha Ray
I'll hold it.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah, I'm gonna hold it.
Marisha Ray
It's time for a test of dexterity. This is exactly what you came here for, is it not.
Ashley Johnson
My helmet. Ah, screw it.
Marisha Ray
You'll take your turns one at a time. Help us count them out. If they get a ringer on that dinger. Let the games begin.
Laura Bailey
Ladies first.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh, my God. Come on, come on, come on.
Ashley Johnson
Grab this bow.
Laura Bailey
Oh, we're too low.
Ashley Johnson
Okay, I went too low.
Matthew Mercer
Come on.
Marisha Ray
Just check.
Matthew Mercer
Okay.
Marisha Ray
These. Okay. The old in and out.
Taliesin Jaffe
Too far.
Ashley Johnson
Too high.
Taliesin Jaffe
Okay, okay. I'm sorry. Too high. I'm going to go lower.
Ashley Johnson
I know you're not used to these things. Okay, I'm going to do this. Yeah. Wait, wait, wait. I felt really good.
Taliesin Jaffe
Deflect missiles.
Ashley Johnson
No.
Taliesin Jaffe
Can I do that?
Matthew Mercer
You're the one throwing it. It's not really deflect.
Taliesin Jaffe
Okay.
Marisha Ray
No, don't arc it more. Arc it.
Ashley Johnson
Shut up.
Marisha Ray
Just arc it.
Liam O'Brien
Let's go, Ms. Calloway.
Marisha Ray
Arc it.
Liam O'Brien
Work that dick.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. Okay.
Marisha Ray
No. Yes. Yes.
Taliesin Jaffe
No, no, no.
Matthew Mercer
I cast blood.
Marisha Ray
Curse of the Eyeless. On the big one.
Matthew Mercer
All right, I need you to take three steps back. Travis.
Marisha Ray
No.
Ashley Johnson
I cast enhance ability on. Wait. You have to touch him.
Matthew Mercer
You have to touch him to do that.
Ashley Johnson
I cast. I cast enhanced ability. And I do the one dexterity ability. Do you have that prepare? Yeah, I do. Are you sure? I'm positive.
Matthew Mercer
Okay.
Marisha Ray
I already.
Matthew Mercer
Interesting. Interesting. Point of order. Haste lasts how long a minute? Haste has now faded, so you are stunned. So you drop two rings.
Ashley Johnson
That's all right. That's all right. That's all right.
Matthew Mercer
But now you get to step back up to where you were and continue.
Laura Bailey
I. I don't want to.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. Who's up?
Liam O'Brien
I respect that.
Taliesin Jaffe
All right.
Marisha Ray
All right, let's go. We lose the arena at midnight.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, Jesus. I mean, who. Okay. Travel and fight.
Marisha Ray
Yes. Let's go.
Taliesin Jaffe
Okay, okay, okay.
Marisha Ray
Come on. Pop, pop, pop, pop. Just the tip.
Taliesin Jaffe
Some of these are painful.
Ashley Johnson
Some of these are bull. Come on, Groul. Get your head in the kitchen. Eye contact.
Taliesin Jaffe
Eye contact.
Ashley Johnson
It's just like Traveler caught.
Marisha Ray
Hey.
Ashley Johnson
I. Every time.
Marisha Ray
He just needs a little competition.
Taliesin Jaffe
Every time and. I know. All right, all right, all right, all right.
Laura Bailey
Oh, what drama this is.
Matthew Mercer
Don't forget, if you want to exchange any of your rings for the smaller ones for bonus points, it's always available for this.
Ashley Johnson
No, those are way too small. Come on.
Laura Bailey
Come on, B. Waiting on you.
Ashley Johnson
They're so small.
Liam O'Brien
Let's go, Grog.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh, that was way off. That was way off. That's for shits and giggles. Let's see what.
Marisha Ray
Yeah, yeah, yeah. I believe in you.
Liam O'Brien
I don't.
Marisha Ray
Matt can't even lie that of the.
Taliesin Jaffe
Wind to give me some sort of speed and clarity.
Matthew Mercer
Step of the way, you can spend a key point the step of the wind to throw mid leap and you can throw that ring from half the distance.
Ashley Johnson
All right. It's teeny weeny. It's a teeny weeny.
Marisha Ray
Yep, right there.
Ashley Johnson
Step of the wind.
Marisha Ray
This is. There's no way.
Taliesin Jaffe
This is stupid. Why did I this.
Matthew Mercer
I believe in you.
Taliesin Jaffe
I don't know either. Okay, okay, okay.
Marisha Ray
So close. Oh, again. No.
Taliesin Jaffe
Come on.
Marisha Ray
He's locked in.
Ashley Johnson
Guiding a Guiding Bolt.
Matthew Mercer
Grog hunt. What level do you cast? Guiding Bolt grog.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, he's got legs.
Matthew Mercer
Jester, what level do you cast? Guiding Bolt?
Ashley Johnson
Second level.
Matthew Mercer
Grog, you take.
Ashley Johnson
I'm sorry. I got caught up in the moment.
Matthew Mercer
Eight points of radiant damage and are shining brighter than the dawn sun as you throw this magic.
Ashley Johnson
Close.
Taliesin Jaffe
It was close. That was great.
Marisha Ray
Give it up for Exandria's favorite God, the Traveler.
Matthew Mercer
Come here and present. Present. The Traveler horns. All right.
Marisha Ray
One, two, three, four, five, six, seven.
Matthew Mercer
One, two, three, four, five.
Marisha Ray
What a shame.
Laura Bailey
Now, I'm not so good with numbers, but I think it's close.
Marisha Ray
Mary. Yeah, Doug, Tell them what they've lost.
Matthew Mercer
Well, friends, unfortunately, you're on the lower end of this competition. You gave it your all. You had good team unity and that's respectable. But MC's gotta punish you. Sorry.
Ashley Johnson
Don't do it.
Marisha Ray
I know I like you the best.
Ashley Johnson
I'm having so much fun. Please. We'll be best friends. Why are you going to hurt us?
Marisha Ray
We'll be best friends. Yeah. Wait, wait. Stop. Stop. Please. Please. I've never had a friend.
Ashley Johnson
Look, Auntie, listen.
Marisha Ray
Yes.
Ashley Johnson
I'm getting married in a few months.
Marisha Ray
I'm so happy for you.
Ashley Johnson
Thank you. And I don't have a maid of honor yet.
Marisha Ray
It sounds like the audience loves this idea.
Ashley Johnson
Have you ever worn pink? I think it would look so good in it.
Marisha Ray
I would be honored. And I'm gonna cast that nastiest spell I have in mind.
Matthew Mercer
You watch as an endless black void of spite burns from a seamless source and tears through Jester's body, sparking out backwards after it builds up inside and impacting like a shockwave across the rest of your team. Jester, you take.
Ashley Johnson
Really cruel. I was serious.
Liam O'Brien
You keep asking people to do that for you.
Marisha Ray
It's getting ridiculous. I was gonna be here.
Taliesin Jaffe
Yeah, we're literally all here. Jester, we can hear you.
Matthew Mercer
Jester, you take 38 points of necrotic damage.
Marisha Ray
Whoa.
Ashley Johnson
Sir, that was rude.
Matthew Mercer
And the rest of your team takes half that.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, I tanked it for 19.
Taliesin Jaffe
19?
Ashley Johnson
Oh, no, I was just kidding. I love you guys. You're both my mate of. No, you're not. Because you're Ford's best man, aren't you?
Marisha Ray
Toadies.
Liam O'Brien
So sad, but it's true.
Marisha Ray
Please come. Remove the brats.
Matthew Mercer
They're statues with cloaks on. Just wanted to clarify.
Ashley Johnson
Are you. Are you Cody?
Marisha Ray
All right, everyone.
Ashley Johnson
Cody, I need to clean it. I'm so sad.
Marisha Ray
Okay, that was pretty fun. We're. We're moving the night along a little bit. You were so good at the last one. Why don't you help me with this one? What comes after dexterity? Wrong. Intelligence. Next. Next game, this will be a test of your smarts your know how, your book learnedness.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, great.
Marisha Ray
Marty, tell them how this one. You're the first. Indeed.
Matthew Mercer
So for each team, three of your players, I need you to all make intelligence checks for me.
Taliesin Jaffe
Three.
Laura Bailey
Okay?
Matthew Mercer
Yes.
Ashley Johnson
Sharon, are you smart? Crack. Crack. Crack. Crack, crack.
Taliesin Jaffe
Okay.
Ashley Johnson
How smart are you?
Laura Bailey
I won't let you down. I let you down.
Matthew Mercer
Starting with team blue. What do we got?
Laura Bailey
Negative 2. Modifier for a 17.
Liam O'Brien
What are you rolling?
Ashley Johnson
Why is he rolling so well?
Laura Bailey
Listen.
Liam O'Brien
Well, I will tell you, but before I do, first I take out a little read and I whisper into it to the last person, all the way to the left in this part of the audience and say, listen, I need you to leave through the back door and find the rest of the mighty Nine. We need them. The fate of everything relies on you. You may reply to this message.
Laura Bailey
And some chocolate if you find some. Good.
Liam O'Brien
Okay, it's a 27 for me.
Matthew Mercer
And Fern.
Ashley Johnson
Let's see, I have a negative one, and I rolled a five. So four.
Matthew Mercer
Perfect. Which three of you will be competing in this trivia?
Ashley Johnson
Who?
Taliesin Jaffe
I rolled a 21.
Matthew Mercer
All right, Bo at 21.
Ashley Johnson
Do you want me to do it or you do it?
Liam O'Brien
I'll do it.
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Liam O'Brien
I rolled a 10.
Marisha Ray
Oh, right. I rolled a 22 too.
Matthew Mercer
All right, we got a. Bloody hell.
Ashley Johnson
I don't think I've met you before.
Liam O'Brien
No. And I've got to say, you're irritating and very attractive and it's confusing me quite a bit.
Marisha Ray
Yes.
Matthew Mercer
So, boss.
Liam O'Brien
Hi.
Matthew Mercer
Each of you will be asked a question. It's up to you to answer. Based on how well you rolled, it might adjust the difficulty and the options you have at your disposal. The team with the most correct answers at the end avoids punishment.
Ashley Johnson
Are we allowed to phone a friend?
Liam O'Brien
What does that mean?
Ashley Johnson
I mean, like, if we don't know the answer, can we talk it out?
Marisha Ray
I tried that, but they're not responding to the message.
Matthew Mercer
I hope you have yourselves ready for a game, friends.
Marisha Ray
Sure.
Matthew Mercer
Malvolio, why don't you take this away?
Marisha Ray
Who doesn't love a little bit of trivia, huh?
Ashley Johnson
I don't.
Liam O'Brien
I'm really not a fan.
Marisha Ray
Yes, and who doesn't know all of the deep, rich exandrian lore before us?
Ashley Johnson
I don't.
Liam O'Brien
I don't remember what I had for breakfast. Definitely not the cast of Critical Role.
Taliesin Jaffe
Sorry, Danny.
Marisha Ray
Who is this Danny you speak of?
Liam O'Brien
Priestess of the Knowing Mistress.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah.
Marisha Ray
First question. Why not you, big guy?
Laura Bailey
Me?
Marisha Ray
Yes, you, Handsome, strong, clearly smart.
Matthew Mercer
You have 30 seconds to answer each of these questions.
Marisha Ray
Oh, and since you did so well, I might make you a little multiple choice.
Laura Bailey
Oh, thank the gods. Wait, does that mean there's multiple. Oh, wait, I'm already lost.
Marisha Ray
This is going to be great. Which of these celestial forces does the matron of Raven hold dominion over?
Laura Bailey
I know that guy.
Marisha Ray
Fate in masks. Death and undead. Winter in Fate, Arcana and Sadness and Undead.
Laura Bailey
Number two.
Marisha Ray
Is that your final answer?
Laura Bailey
Yeah. Number Death and Undead. Cuz he. He killed back.
Marisha Ray
Your answer was Death and undead. Death.
Laura Bailey
Isn't that what you said?
Marisha Ray
Yes. Is that even a word? Undeath or. It is now.
Laura Bailey
Yes.
Marisha Ray
And the answer is. Would you read that for me, Mie?
Matthew Mercer
The answer is Winter and fate. You are Incorrect.
Ashley Johnson
Wait a minute. I thought the matron was about death.
Liam O'Brien
Not sort of the opposite, really. She has a bit of a problem. I read that.
Laura Bailey
Just sounds like a branding.
Ashley Johnson
She's not here anymore. She's so stupid.
Matthew Mercer
The answer was Winter in faith.
Ashley Johnson
Winter.
Matthew Mercer
And death's in there, too. It's a tricky question. You did good, boy. But that's one negative point for you.
Liam O'Brien
Maybe. It's like golf.
Marisha Ray
The Larry, you're a member of the Cobalt Soul. You know everything.
Taliesin Jaffe
Yeah, but. But I'm under pressure.
Ashley Johnson
You're going to be so good at this.
Marisha Ray
Kill it. They can't hear us. I have two quick questions. Yes? They're doing a little better than I thought they would, and it's making me a little bit nervous, if you know what I mean. You've had more experience at this than I. Am I doing okay? Am I all right?
Matthew Mercer
You're doing fine. Just, you know, stick to the script. Make sure you put it on hard. Make them fearful so that they don't get angry and.
Marisha Ray
Yeah, yeah, you're doing. Doing great. And my last question is. If I say, is that your final answer again, will we get sued?
Matthew Mercer
Is that your definitive response?
Marisha Ray
I love the workaround. Next question.
Ashley Johnson
Wait, Matt, were we able to hear any of that that was going on just now?
Matthew Mercer
Make a perception check for me.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. A little 20.
Matthew Mercer
Yeah, you heard a little bit of that.
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Matthew Mercer
All right.
Marisha Ray
Up next for the red team. Come on, Bo. Bo.
Ashley Johnson
You got it, Bo. You got it.
Marisha Ray
You did well as well.
Liam O'Brien
You can do this, Beauregard.
Ashley Johnson
You know everything.
Taliesin Jaffe
Thank you, King.
Laura Bailey
You suck, Beau.
Taliesin Jaffe
Thank you, Grog. Dah.
Laura Bailey
How was that?
Marisha Ray
The massive body of water that exists between Isilra and Tal' Dore is known as Hwa.
Taliesin Jaffe
Okay, okay.
Ashley Johnson
If you would like.
Marisha Ray
No multiple choices. I will give you two points if you answer correctly.
Ashley Johnson
Do you know it?
Matthew Mercer
You've got this.
Taliesin Jaffe
I'm pretty sure I know this.
Ashley Johnson
Do it. You've got this.
Taliesin Jaffe
But I really only know one ocean.
Marisha Ray
Would you like the multiple choice or no?
Taliesin Jaffe
It might just confuse me, so I'm gonna say the Lucidian Ocean.
Marisha Ray
Is that your definitive answer?
Taliesin Jaffe
That is my definitive response.
Marisha Ray
It is. Four.
Matthew Mercer
Three.
Marisha Ray
Oh.
Ashley Johnson
What the.
Marisha Ray
Who's that? Oh, my.
Taliesin Jaffe
Every time.
Marisha Ray
Incorrect. What? What?
Ashley Johnson
Oh, no.
Marisha Ray
The answer is the Ozmits. What?
Ashley Johnson
He awesome.
Taliesin Jaffe
I should have known that.
Liam O'Brien
I knew it.
Ashley Johnson
I thought it was a C. I.
Marisha Ray
Thought it was a C. And unfortunately, since no questions or answers, you get negative 2 points. What? My game, my rules.
Matthew Mercer
That's how the boss works.
Ashley Johnson
He talks like he's compensating for something.
Liam O'Brien
Quite a bit, actually.
Marisha Ray
I don't know what you're talking about. My horns are huge. Yeah, and. And see, Are you. Are you a minotaur by any chance? Gm? What kind of look is Veth giving me right now?
Matthew Mercer
Beth, what look are you. Yeah, that look.
Ashley Johnson
Stop.
Liam O'Brien
It's the only look it has. It's just one. And it spits up.
Ashley Johnson
It never works for you. Beth, try another method. Okay, that's.
Marisha Ray
Yes, I am. I am not up next.
Ashley Johnson
Caleb, you got this.
Marisha Ray
Caleb, you've got to do well.
Liam O'Brien
Keen mind, don't fail me now.
Ashley Johnson
Guidance.
Matthew Mercer
He's already rolled. But I love the.
Marisha Ray
Cue the music. Maddie. The mythical dragon Devosa, protector of Ank' Harel, is storied to be. What color? With a 27, you will get the multiple choice. Brass, Gold, platinum, Silver.
Laura Bailey
Take your time, don't rush it. If you have to touch yourself, that's okay. I do. When I get nervous. Let a little toot out. You'll be fine. I forgot the colors already, but you got this. Speak that weird language you talk.
Liam O'Brien
I have a definitive response. The answer is all about that brass.
Marisha Ray
Audience. Was that correct? You are correct as well.
Liam O'Brien
Frog dislocates Caleb's arm. Be honest. I was literally born yesterday.
Ashley Johnson
Caleb, I can help you. Just come over here. No, no, no.
Laura Bailey
Blue team better than red team.
Ashley Johnson
To be fair, they have been beating us on everything. We have four people. What the fuck?
Taliesin Jaffe
There's two team. There's two games that have happened and we have one.
Laura Bailey
We actually made up a song. It's called Blue is Cool. And that's the rule. I'd rather be dead than you.
Liam O'Brien
While I am sad to not be with my compatriots, I feel that our strength is in our diversity.
Ashley Johnson
I have donuts. Who wants one?
Marisha Ray
I'll take it. Donut.
Ashley Johnson
I'll take it. Donut.
Marisha Ray
Next question for the red team. And Kingsley, you didn't roll so well, so your question is going to be a little bit harder. But I will give you the multiple choice. What creature is emblazoned on the quest? The crest. What creature is emblazoned on the crest? The Dwindalian Empire.
Liam O'Brien
You said the multiple choice will get on with it.
Marisha Ray
An owl, a wolf, a hawk or a lion. Do you know what creature is emblazoned on the crest of the Dwendalian Empire? An owl, a wolf, a hawk or a lion.
Liam O'Brien
I think if I remembered correctly, it's an animal. That means when this gets towards the end, I'm gonna make sure that you fucking die at the end of my sword.
Matthew Mercer
10 seconds remain.
Liam O'Brien
Hurt you in particular, your bloody friend. You're not gonna survive this. And I think it's a wolf.
Marisha Ray
All that bravado and such a weak libido. The answer is an Ow.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, we are going to get hurt again.
Marisha Ray
My God.
Taliesin Jaffe
It's okay, Caleb.
Marisha Ray
Have pity on me. I'm a mother.
Liam O'Brien
Do you want me to cast banish on you right now and send you home?
Marisha Ray
No, because as. As bad as we're doing, I think we'll do worse without. That is a fair point.
Liam O'Brien
Carry on.
Marisha Ray
You can reply to this message. Something catches Malvolio's eye. In the moment between games and in his own dimension, he slowly and quickly looks back over the last 10 seconds to what Kingsley said to him about hurting him, about taking his power, about killing him. And he tries to remind himself of the audience's reaction. Kingsley, what did you say to me again?
Liam O'Brien
Before this is over, I'm gonna make sure that you meet my sword.
Marisha Ray
And what did the audience sound like after he said those words?
Liam O'Brien
I think that they think I'm hot. And you're.
Marisha Ray
If you were perceptive, you would see one tiny sequin fall off of my jacket. Next question. His ego is his weakness. Up next, we have Fearne. Fearne, you look delightful.
Ashley Johnson
Yes, I. It turned. I am a professor, so I probably will actually. Actually know the answer to what you're gonna be asking me. Yeah, Professor Princess. Oh, my God.
Marisha Ray
This question's going to be somewhat more difficult. Mythborough is the lair. You're cooked already.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.
Marisha Ray
All right, all right.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. I'm gonna know. I'm gonna know the answer.
Marisha Ray
Mythborough is the layer of which dragon What?
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Marisha Ray
Myth Baro.
Ashley Johnson
And I don't get multiple choice because I rolled bad, right? I just get to guess. May I?
Marisha Ray
What do you think? Give me. Give me your input on this one.
Matthew Mercer
Yeah, give him multiple choice. She seems nice enough and kind of lost.
Ashley Johnson
Okay, yeah, give me. Give me a multiple choice rhyme.
Marisha Ray
Fang geladon.
Ashley Johnson
Great, great.
Marisha Ray
Help me with that one. My glasses are a little bit Vorugal.
Ashley Johnson
That's right.
Marisha Ray
And one more. Raisha, your time begins now.
Ashley Johnson
Listen, can I cast sleight of hand and look at the answer?
Matthew Mercer
Are you gonna get up from your chair to do so?
Ashley Johnson
Yeah, I'll do it.
Matthew Mercer
Make a sleight of hand.
Marisha Ray
Check.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. Dirty 20.
Matthew Mercer
Make a perception check.
Marisha Ray
Perception. Perception check.
Matthew Mercer
10 seconds remain. It's bad.
Marisha Ray
For.
Matthew Mercer
7, 4, 3, 2, 1. You glance quickly from the Edge of the table over and get one quick look at the card.
Marisha Ray
Do I see her doing this?
Matthew Mercer
Yes.
Marisha Ray
And I mean, I'm going to cast Phantasmal force and make her see if it works. And make her see the. The word Thordak.
Taliesin Jaffe
Let's go.
Matthew Mercer
Burn. I need you to make an intelligent saving throw. I believe. Right.
Ashley Johnson
Come on. It's a damn six.
Marisha Ray
It says Thordak.
Liam O'Brien
Does Fearne remember that Thordak was not spoken aloud 30 seconds ago.
Matthew Mercer
Do you?
Ashley Johnson
Y. Yes.
Matthew Mercer
Then what's your answer?
Ashley Johnson
My answer is what I saw on the card when I rolled my perfect sleight of hand to see the answer.
Matthew Mercer
That the answer said Thordak.
Ashley Johnson
The answer said Thordak.
Matthew Mercer
Yeah.
Marisha Ray
Rhymefang. Galadon Vorugal.
Ashley Johnson
Well, I have to go. Thordak.
Marisha Ray
Raishan.
Ashley Johnson
5.
Marisha Ray
4.
Ashley Johnson
I was gonna say. I was gonna say Thordak. Right? I saw it plain as day. It was like so huge on the paper.
Marisha Ray
Unfortunately, that's incorrect. The answer is Galadon.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, shit.
Marisha Ray
Sorry.
Ashley Johnson
All right. I see how we're playing now, boss.
Matthew Mercer
That was an answer that was not even given as part of the multiple choice.
Marisha Ray
Oh, you're right.
Matthew Mercer
It's pretty. It's pretty outlifting.
Ashley Johnson
How did that happen? Yeah. Maybe you're a professor. Maybe. Did you just remember the correct answer? Were they trying to trick you? Maybe. Maybe they were.
Liam O'Brien
Maybe the question's wrong.
Marisha Ray
Maybe grog's dumb is spreading.
Laura Bailey
Wouldn't be the first time something I've had is spreading.
Liam O'Brien
I message veth and say you are not allowed to use the tower for your date nights for six months.
Marisha Ray
But it's got that swing we like.
Liam O'Brien
I think you're broken.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah.
Liam O'Brien
Yeah. Normally the cats are just on it like it's a. Like a cat tree. They hang out all over it. They have no idea the debauchery that happens when the doors are closed.
Ashley Johnson
I feel like the cats would know.
Marisha Ray
It's time for the final question.
Ashley Johnson
You got this vet.
Taliesin Jaffe
Gotta bring it home.
Marisha Ray
The score is currently negative two to negative three.
Ashley Johnson
Yes.
Liam O'Brien
Bring us home. Bring us home.
Marisha Ray
This. I'll make you an offer. With a 20. If you would like to answer this question or with no multiple choice, you may have two points assuring the win. If you would like to answer this easy question with multiple choice, it would tie the game. What would you like to do?
Taliesin Jaffe
Do we not get to hear the question first?
Marisha Ray
Not yet, you do not. Audience, what should I do? Stop, please.
Ashley Johnson
Please.
Marisha Ray
If you'd like to see them ask and go and get all the questions as multiple choice. Make some noise. Multiple choice. For the tie. Go big or go home. All right, I'm going big or going home. I'm going to make a say a little prayer to this thing that I stole off of a stagehand in the back. It's time. Let's go. The historical era, when the gods of Exandria first divided into prime and Betrayer at odds with each other, is known as what?
Taliesin Jaffe
You know this?
Matthew Mercer
You know this.
Laura Bailey
You're an executive producer on both animated series.
Ashley Johnson
You know, this is such an easy question.
Marisha Ray
The historical era when the gods of Exandrian are first divided into prime and Betray are at odds with one another is known as what era? I really don't pay attention when Matt talks.
Ashley Johnson
You know this.
Marisha Ray
All right.
Ashley Johnson
Only.
Marisha Ray
It rhymes with jism.
Liam O'Brien
I cast Polymorph.
Marisha Ray
Schism.
Liam O'Brien
Oh, Sloth.
Taliesin Jaffe
She got it out.
Liam O'Brien
Not before I said I cast Polymorph. He said rhymes with jism.
Matthew Mercer
They said it was a wisdom saving throw for them, right? Yeah. Make a wisdom saving throw. Bet.
Ashley Johnson
Nah.
Marisha Ray
25 she beats it. That's right. It's time for your definitive response. Schism. Bitch. Correct.
Ashley Johnson
All right, all right.
Liam O'Brien
Oh, Mommy.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, my God, you're so smart. You're even smarter than Bob.
Marisha Ray
I cast intellect Fortress on myself, that's why.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah, I didn't know you could even do that kind of thing. I can't.
Marisha Ray
It's a third level spell. Merty, tell them what they've lost.
Matthew Mercer
Well, with the victory over here, on the blue team or the red team? I apologize. Little color play. Blue team, over here. An unfortunate loss. And in this circumstance, you're gonna have to taste a little bit of the abyss. My apologies. Watch as Malvolio lifts a hand in the air and the ground cracks underneath and you hear the screaming of a thousand souls. Suddenly you feel a bit of your essence torn and sent into the ground below.
Ashley Johnson
Boo.
Matthew Mercer
The rest. The red team. The red team takes 21 points, making the audience happy.
Laura Bailey
Red team or the blue team?
Matthew Mercer
Sorry, blue team? Blue team takes 21 points of necrotic damage.
Marisha Ray
Just a little gassy from the catering is all. Next game. Next game. Shut up. Constitution game. Mine's not feeling so well right now. This next game is called Tough Shot. So who among you is the toughest? Give me a second. Marty, can you please explain this one? I'm not feeling so.
Matthew Mercer
Of course, of course. I would appreciate three members of each team to make a constitution check to see the order in which you will be enjoying and imbibing some substance that you're unaware of. And upon drinking it you have to make no face for five seconds.
Marisha Ray
You guys do it?
Matthew Mercer
Yeah.
Liam O'Brien
Yeah.
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Taliesin Jaffe
Saving throw or check?
Matthew Mercer
Just a check.
Ashley Johnson
Just a check. Okay.
Taliesin Jaffe
Okay.
Matthew Mercer
Wait, you said this is Constitution.
Marisha Ray
Oh, you know, I feel kind of bad about that last round. So even though I'm the best at drinking alcohol, I'm gonna sit this one out.
Ashley Johnson
You are really good at it.
Marisha Ray
I'm so good at it.
Ashley Johnson
Are the three things. Is it like milk?
Liam O'Brien
Your swing is off limits for 12 months. Keep it up without the swing. That'll be hard.
Matthew Mercer
Will. All right, so for this regard, on this side, what are the roles?
Ashley Johnson
Oh, no, Bo, say it. 5, 15, 22.
Matthew Mercer
Jester. Kingsley. Then Bo is going to be the order on this side.
Laura Bailey
21, 20.
Ashley Johnson
I think. I think that was a seven.
Matthew Mercer
Alrighty.
Taliesin Jaffe
Let's go. Let's go.
Marisha Ray
Be getting my second win. Speed this along. I'm ready for intermission. Toadies. Bring it out. Whoever rolled the best, come see me. Come, come.
Matthew Mercer
That would be Jester and Grog. Please come sit here at the table.
Ashley Johnson
Hi, Grog.
Marisha Ray
Hello, Grog.
Laura Bailey
Hello. It's very nice to meet you.
Ashley Johnson
Hi. It feels really cool to be at this table. Now, would you like to sit down.
Marisha Ray
On the other side? You can sit if you'd like, but if you could stand at this corner and would be.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, you don't want me to sit down where you've been sitting?
Marisha Ray
Yes. Yes. That's perfect. Yes.
Matthew Mercer
I love the show.
Marisha Ray
Sorry, I'm not quite feeling myself.
Ashley Johnson
Are you okay?
Marisha Ray
Just fine. Have a seat.
Ashley Johnson
You look a little ill. Yeah, well.
Marisha Ray
You look a little blue.
Ashley Johnson
I'm always blue.
Marisha Ray
Oh, that's a little hotter.
Laura Bailey
Oh, thank you very much, kind sir.
Marisha Ray
Beautiful couple.
Laura Bailey
I'm suddenly very nervous.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, why do they look so weird? Hi.
Laura Bailey
Hi.
Ashley Johnson
Nice to see you.
Laura Bailey
Nice to see you.
Marisha Ray
You two feeling confident?
Ashley Johnson
Yeah.
Matthew Mercer
Good.
Marisha Ray
Are you feeling confident? Confident? Proud of yourself? Strong. Yes, Strong. You're first to go. Don't worry, this won't be so bad. Moody, tell them what they're having this evening.
Matthew Mercer
Oh, well, this here, you know, let's keep it a mystery.
Marisha Ray
I love a good.
Matthew Mercer
Let them. Let them discover the flavor as it hits the pow.
Ashley Johnson
Do we do it all at once.
Marisha Ray
Or we're gonna count them down? 3, 2, 1. And then we start. The goal here is to make no face whatsoever. Good or bad. Are you ready? At the same time, on the count of three, here we go. Three, two, one. Looks like two points for each team, one to the other. Give it up for our contestants. Excellent. Excellent. The first shot was simple.
Matthew Mercer
Simply a. That, my friend, was a. It's not written on my sheet here.
Laura Bailey
Can I have more? If you find any frog.
Marisha Ray
What did it taste like to you?
Laura Bailey
Oh, booze.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah, it tastes like sugary booze.
Marisha Ray
I'm pretty sure it was just a birthday cake shot. So we're good to go. We're just loosening up for the second half. This will surely be as pleasant. Round 2. Get your ass up here.
Matthew Mercer
Let's Caleb Kingsley to the table.
Marisha Ray
Chop, chop. Come on, red team. Oh, swagger.
Liam O'Brien
Does it occur to you that maybe made the best we're paying a little too much attention at beating each other and not the actual problem.
Marisha Ray
Lock it up. That's the lemon juice. These are cement mixers. Get after it. Go. Three, two, one. Little tear.
Ashley Johnson
Don't make a face. Kingsley, stop it. Don't lift up.
Marisha Ray
Another two points. One point, team.
Ashley Johnson
Good job, Caleb. Good job, Caleb.
Marisha Ray
Sorry.
Ashley Johnson
You did great. I'm not working out for you, is it?
Marisha Ray
Mc?
Ashley Johnson
I have a failing. Yeah. Did you work really hard on this or something? Because I feel bad for you.
Marisha Ray
Look at the production value. It's a lot.
Liam O'Brien
That was a shit shot.
Marisha Ray
Last one. Get up here.
Ashley Johnson
All right.
Marisha Ray
This one won't go easy, I promise.
Taliesin Jaffe
Are you used to having strange liquids in your mouth?
Ashley Johnson
Yes, I am.
Marisha Ray
Toadies. Oh, you've already poured it. Well, this is a local favorite from the great land Illinois.
Liam O'Brien
I know where this is.
Marisha Ray
On the count of three, we will prepare to pray to the porcelain gods.
Matthew Mercer
And I will say, as part of this.
Ashley Johnson
I gotta stand.
Matthew Mercer
You gotta swish before you swallow.
Ashley Johnson
Swish before you swallow.
Matthew Mercer
Yeah. Oh, yeah.
Marisha Ray
Had this before. No faces.
Liam O'Brien
I'm so excited.
Ashley Johnson
Why are you all standing like you're excited to see what this is?
Matthew Mercer
I want a better view.
Ashley Johnson
Can I smell it?
Marisha Ray
No. On the count zero, we'll say three, two, one. You know what it is?
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Marisha Ray
Three, two, one.
Ashley Johnson
Go, B. Go, go. Whoa, Whoa.
Marisha Ray
Someone loves Illinois. I. I see. Wow. That was fine. Fine. Go back to seat.
Ashley Johnson
We're all tied up. It feels like liquid fire. Yeah, I. I don't know. What was that? What the is?
Matthew Mercer
We're trying to do our best here, but they're a little.
Marisha Ray
Your best isn't good enough.
Matthew Mercer
They're a little tougher than I expected.
Marisha Ray
Okay, please bring me another shot.
Ashley Johnson
You guys, do you need some guidance or something?
Marisha Ray
I don't need anything from you.
Liam O'Brien
Need a bloody mixologist.
Marisha Ray
You think you're so good. Such proud heroes and spies. You think you're so special. Who hurt you, you weirdo? Pick Someone from the three and four of you. Anyone. I don't care.
Ashley Johnson
You haven't gone yet, though. That should go.
Laura Bailey
There we go.
Ashley Johnson
That should go.
Liam O'Brien
Okay.
Marisha Ray
Step up.
Ashley Johnson
Do not make a face, Beth.
Liam O'Brien
You this up, woman.
Matthew Mercer
I will.
Marisha Ray
It's time.
Liam O'Brien
Bloody swing this.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh, Ashley's back up.
Liam O'Brien
Yeah.
Marisha Ray
This one's. This one's worth a thousand points. I don't care anymore.
Ashley Johnson
Nobody's had more in their mouth than that.
Marisha Ray
This is tequila.
Ashley Johnson
This is.
Marisha Ray
Well, that's probably hot sauce. And in my neck of the woods. Holy.
Liam O'Brien
Don't you this up, Beth.
Marisha Ray
We call this a prairie fire. I'm not good. Why did you say yes to it then?
Matthew Mercer
Now you see why he's the boss.
Ashley Johnson
Respect. Respect to you. What's your name? Makia Valley. What did you say your name was?
Taliesin Jaffe
I want to tag out.
Liam O'Brien
Tag out?
Laura Bailey
There's no tagging out.
Ashley Johnson
You want to tag out?
Marisha Ray
I'm gonna lose.
Ashley Johnson
No, you're not hot.
Taliesin Jaffe
Or your group was spicy.
Matthew Mercer
It's too late, friend.
Ashley Johnson
No, you have to stay.
Marisha Ray
Fine.
Ashley Johnson
You'll be fine.
Marisha Ray
Get it together.
Taliesin Jaffe
Pucker your asshole.
Marisha Ray
That's so red. I put a little extra in for you.
Liam O'Brien
Suck it up, soccer mom.
Taliesin Jaffe
Come on, Come on.
Marisha Ray
See?
Ashley Johnson
It made a mistake.
Marisha Ray
Three, two, one.
Ashley Johnson
Get it together.
Marisha Ray
You did.
Taliesin Jaffe
Don't do it.
Marisha Ray
Don't.
Taliesin Jaffe
Don't do it.
Marisha Ray
Oh. Oh.
Ashley Johnson
Was it.
Marisha Ray
Congratulations. You both win. I'm so happy for you.
Matthew Mercer
It's great. You've also all made a mess of my DM screen.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, no. It really did get messed up. My interior of my body. Body feels like it's on fire. I kind of want to buy it, though. I'm gonna have like a hot tonight.
Marisha Ray
All right, all right. We've got to move this along.
Liam O'Brien
Rashad acting up or you're going to shard.
Marisha Ray
What's that?
Ashley Johnson
I'm in a shard for sure.
Marisha Ray
Hot.
Ashley Johnson
What's going on?
Marisha Ray
Yes, yes, I hear you. I hear you. Oh, yes.
Laura Bailey
He's getting a call.
Marisha Ray
Christ, another stage manager in my ear. Up next, second to last game.
Laura Bailey
Wisdom, wisdom, Wisdom, Wisdom.
Marisha Ray
Toadies, bring out the props.
Matthew Mercer
Pick one person from each team.
Liam O'Brien
You're the best.
Matthew Mercer
One person to draw.
Liam O'Brien
I have good wisdom.
Marisha Ray
The second to last game is called intuitive drawing. Oh, Jester, you've got this.
Ashley Johnson
Okay, okay, okay. Don't believe in you.
Matthew Mercer
I'm a really good.
Taliesin Jaffe
So, like, I'm burping.
Liam O'Brien
You're also dealing with that.
Marisha Ray
Oh, my God.
Ashley Johnson
Is this a saving throw or a check? Not me.
Marisha Ray
Mary, could you give him the run?
Matthew Mercer
So both of you choose one person from your team.
Ashley Johnson
Sorry, guys.
Matthew Mercer
I'm going to have you roll a wisdom check based on what you roll. You'll be given a prompt from me quietly, and you have to draw it while blindfolded. You'll have 30 seconds for your team to try and guess it. And if they fail to do so in 30 seconds, the opposing team has a chance to steal the points. We're going to do two rounds. Each team wait and see who wins.
Marisha Ray
How are you going to whisper with a microphone in your mouth?
Matthew Mercer
I got way.
Marisha Ray
Okay. All right, who's drawing and who's guessing? Everyone else is guessing. Who's drawing.
Ashley Johnson
He's drawing.
Marisha Ray
Chester.
Ashley Johnson
What? I'm drawing.
Taliesin Jaffe
You're the artist.
Matthew Mercer
Jester and Caleb, I'd like you both.
Ashley Johnson
Caleb, really? Get out of here. Don't go against me.
Matthew Mercer
Wisdom saving or wisdom checks for me, please.
Liam O'Brien
I. I have already it up.
Ashley Johnson
Guidance. No, you already rolled Truly.
Liam O'Brien
Yeah, I just saw what it was.
Ashley Johnson
Never mind.
Liam O'Brien
Well, I have very high wisdom modifier, but I rolled a 4, so it's 15.
Ashley Johnson
Not too bad, but guidance. No, you didn't.
Matthew Mercer
You got a guidance before the roll.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, yeah, no, sorry.
Matthew Mercer
That's a good try.
Ashley Johnson
I'll just see if you're. I have a really high wisdom as well, but they also rolled really well. So. Caleb, we tied.
Laura Bailey
Rose.
Marisha Ray
It is.
Taliesin Jaffe
Come on, Come on.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, no.
Liam O'Brien
Natural 20.
Ashley Johnson
Boom. 99.
Taliesin Jaffe
9.
Marisha Ray
All right, Caleb, you're up first with an easy prompt. Look, look, Ariana.
Taliesin Jaffe
Okay.
Ashley Johnson
All right. I got to get it close and.
Taliesin Jaffe
See, we technically should all be.
Ashley Johnson
Sorry. I'm going to keep.
Liam O'Brien
That's what I keep saying. But then the spirit of competition.
Ashley Johnson
Here's the thing. I truly love you guys and I know it really. The indigestion is really intense.
Liam O'Brien
Cowards.
Marisha Ray
Do we.
Ashley Johnson
Do we have the same? Do we have the same?
Marisha Ray
Only you can guess it first, but if you don't get it, the other team has an opportunity to steal. So you'll want to see.
Ashley Johnson
We're going to get it. We're going to get it. We're going to get it. All right. You got this. Oh, my God. You got this.
Liam O'Brien
Are you going to tell me go? Is that how this works?
Ashley Johnson
Yes. Huh?
Matthew Mercer
All right.
Marisha Ray
Are you ready to start the timer?
Matthew Mercer
Yes. 30 seconds to draw and guess.
Marisha Ray
30 seconds. Go.
Laura Bailey
Nothingness.
Ashley Johnson
A bike. A cat. Batman.
Liam O'Brien
Got it already.
Ashley Johnson
Okay, great.
Marisha Ray
A cat.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah. Great.
Marisha Ray
Cat is correct. That's it.
Ashley Johnson
Wow.
Marisha Ray
You're up next.
Taliesin Jaffe
Congratulations. Let's all say it together. You guys, congratulations.
Ashley Johnson
Congratulations. You gave Caleb a cat. That's cheating.
Marisha Ray
You're right, Jester.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah.
Marisha Ray
You're going to get a hard one because you lost your.
Ashley Johnson
Listen, I'm sorry. No hard feelings. I don't mind that you attacked me earlier. Okay? I know. It's just your job. I understand. I saw you earlier. Look, I know you're under a lot of pressure.
Marisha Ray
Let's talk down here. Talk down here? Yes. Are you ready to draw something?
Ashley Johnson
Yeah.
Marisha Ray
Okay. Come over here.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. Let me see it. Where is it? Let me see the prop.
Marisha Ray
That's just right there. There you go.
Liam O'Brien
Good luck.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. Oh, wait. I forgot my marker.
Marisha Ray
That would help.
Laura Bailey
No pressure.
Ashley Johnson
You got this, Chester. Thank you. You look really hot. You do, too.
Laura Bailey
Thanks.
Marisha Ray
Okay.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, God.
Laura Bailey
Oh, she's a lefty.
Liam O'Brien
Oh. We don't get to see it until after school.
Marisha Ray
Know what to.
Liam O'Brien
Understood.
Marisha Ray
And don't look at the monitors, either.
Ashley Johnson
Don't you tell us what to do.
Marisha Ray
I'll tell you. I. I'm fire right now.
Liam O'Brien
These magic are enormous.
Marisha Ray
30 seconds. Count them down. Mie.
Ashley Johnson
Am I going? Oh, wait, no.
Marisha Ray
Oh, it's. It's a. It's a D12. No, it's a. Oh.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh, you're announcing. It's a beacon.
Matthew Mercer
Beacon.
Marisha Ray
It. That is correct. It's beacon. That's correct.
Ashley Johnson
That looks just like a beacon.
Taliesin Jaffe
It kind of does.
Liam O'Brien
It really does.
Ashley Johnson
You did a good job.
Liam O'Brien
Kind of hit it. It's no cat.
Marisha Ray
No.
Ashley Johnson
It is not winning.
Laura Bailey
I don't want to temp fate, but these games are kind of easy.
Marisha Ray
Why would you do that?
Matthew Mercer
Don't flock the boss. They're calling you easy.
Marisha Ray
I know, I know.
Ashley Johnson
All right.
Marisha Ray
I'll be fine. Next. Isn't there another. How does this game work? There's more people.
Matthew Mercer
Yeah. They do another round on this side. Are you boss? You okay over here?
Marisha Ray
I don't know. Maybe it was the Lord. I'm okay. I'm okay. Yes. Yes. Let's keep going. Let's keep fucking going. Who's next? Who's drawing?
Ashley Johnson
Wait, we're doing Driven Artists.
Liam O'Brien
Okay.
Ashley Johnson
All right.
Marisha Ray
Another easy one. No.
Matthew Mercer
This one's been taunting over there. Give him a hard one.
Laura Bailey
Whatever you do, don't give us another cat.
Liam O'Brien
Okay, okay, okay.
Ashley Johnson
Caleb, look at me. Look at me. Tell me through your mind. Okay. What it is.
Matthew Mercer
Sit down, boy. I'm about to start the time.
Ashley Johnson
Got it?
Liam O'Brien
Okay.
Ashley Johnson
Say it one more time in your mind.
Liam O'Brien
Yeah. As I sit down, I cast haste on myself.
Matthew Mercer
Unfortunately, that window of casting spells on yourself is faded.
Liam O'Brien
Oh, well, I'll save that slot, then.
Ashley Johnson
Let's Go, Grog.
Marisha Ray
Start the timer.
Ashley Johnson
All right.
Laura Bailey
Oh.
Marisha Ray
Back.
Ashley Johnson
We're going a circle. It's the moon. It's. It's ruid. Ruidous. It is a mad vampire. A vampire. That's really good.
Liam O'Brien
You're just a bloody creature.
Ashley Johnson
That's really good. That's a vampire. It's a vampire.
Liam O'Brien
That's a vampire.
Taliesin Jaffe
To be fair, Vox Machina fought a lot of those.
Liam O'Brien
We are the same. We are both artists.
Ashley Johnson
Caleb, you're so talented. I'm so proud of you.
Marisha Ray
Don't fraternize with.
Liam O'Brien
Me. I learned it by watching you.
Ashley Johnson
Good job, Caleb. I've been giving him lessons.
Marisha Ray
How dare you.
Taliesin Jaffe
Doing all right?
Ashley Johnson
What?
Marisha Ray
When you hugged him, did you pick his pocket?
Ashley Johnson
Yeah. What's going on over here with this guy?
Marisha Ray
Jester, come here.
Ashley Johnson
Come here.
Marisha Ray
We're friends, right? Here.
Ashley Johnson
Are you okay?
Marisha Ray
Yeah. Come on.
Ashley Johnson
Come on.
Marisha Ray
We'll be fine. I wish I could come in.
Laura Bailey
Let me guess. In the blind. The sun heal you?
Ashley Johnson
You know, I have healing.
Marisha Ray
Oh, no, it's not like that. Okay. What can. What can I give you to. To. To this up on purpose? Can I give you anything?
Ashley Johnson
I've got.
Marisha Ray
I've got. I've got money. I got friends in high places. Just. Just draw. Bad. Can you draw? Do a bad. Can you.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. I feel so sorry for you.
Marisha Ray
Maybe if I don't feel sorry.
Taliesin Jaffe
Don't trust a man in a top hat.
Marisha Ray
Draw. Draw it. Draw it. Draw it.
Ashley Johnson
Are you going to be okay?
Marisha Ray
I'll be fine.
Ashley Johnson
Listen, are you working for somebody?
Marisha Ray
I'll be fine.
Ashley Johnson
Whoa. I feel like it's not his choice.
Matthew Mercer
What is it? Come sit down and prepare to draw. It's what the boss wants.
Laura Bailey
Don't worry. You did so good last time.
Ashley Johnson
Thank you, Grog. Oh, no. I feel torn. What if he's not that bad?
Marisha Ray
That's what you say about.
Ashley Johnson
Wait, can I. Can I roll. Can I roll an insight check to see if he's trying to trick me?
Matthew Mercer
Sure. Roll an insight check.
Marisha Ray
He's got a top hat made of gold horn.
Taliesin Jaffe
Of course he's trying to trick you.
Ashley Johnson
I rolled a 13.
Matthew Mercer
It's hard to tell.
Liam O'Brien
Jess. It hardly matters. I don't think he's gonna do better or worse, depending on if you do better or worse.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. What's happening over here?
Laura Bailey
Don't worry, Jester. If they don't guess it, we will. And then we'll win.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah. You got this. This is gonna be a hard one. Okay.
Matthew Mercer
Be clear.
Ashley Johnson
Go for it.
Marisha Ray
Yep. It's a book.
Taliesin Jaffe
It's a tome. It's a book of some sort. A grimoire.
Marisha Ray
It's a page. It's a dick. It's a dick.
Taliesin Jaffe
It's Traveler's journal.
Liam O'Brien
No, it's.
Marisha Ray
It's.
Matthew Mercer
Oh, bloody hell.
Marisha Ray
Chester's journal.
Liam O'Brien
No, it's.
Taliesin Jaffe
Caleb's journal. Caleb's journal.
Marisha Ray
Oh, it's the poor.
Liam O'Brien
It's the poor one.
Marisha Ray
What's the. It's.
Liam O'Brien
It's smart. It's smart.
Marisha Ray
Bloody hell. What was happening?
Matthew Mercer
His head around who one.
Marisha Ray
Tus glove.
Matthew Mercer
Is it Tus glove?
Ashley Johnson
Yes.
Marisha Ray
Yes.
Matthew Mercer
I don't. That's a failure. Mother on this team. But the other team has a chance to steal the points.
Marisha Ray
Blue team.
Liam O'Brien
And they already said.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh, no, I know what it is.
Marisha Ray
Blue team, take a look. What is it?
Laura Bailey
Oh, dog.
Ashley Johnson
I mean, I think it. It. It could be. It could be.
Liam O'Brien
That is my spellbook.
Ashley Johnson
It could be tusclove.
Liam O'Brien
No, it's a dick in it.
Taliesin Jaffe
We already said.
Marisha Ray
You said the answer is pamphlet.
Ashley Johnson
It's a pamphlet. Traveler Pamphlet.
Taliesin Jaffe
Wait. Can I get one more chance?
Matthew Mercer
Absolutely not.
Marisha Ray
Spell book. Blue team takes it. Yes. This is what I needed.
Ashley Johnson
Point of the cake.
Marisha Ray
Ancient power. APPLAUSE Fuck you. And I cast you.
Matthew Mercer
Watch out of the anger and frustration of Malvolio. This blast of infernal spite and fire.
Marisha Ray
Wait. I object. Overruled. He's got you there.
Liam O'Brien
It was a good try. It was a good try. I understand that difference.
Matthew Mercer
Your team takes.
Ashley Johnson
That's very good for a blindfolded spell.
Matthew Mercer
40 points of fire damage.
Liam O'Brien
I have resistance to fire.
Ashley Johnson
How much?
Marisha Ray
40.
Taliesin Jaffe
40.
Matthew Mercer
So you take 20.
Liam O'Brien
All right.
Ashley Johnson
Wait. I have my ring of fire resistance arm.
Matthew Mercer
Then you also take 20.
Taliesin Jaffe
Can I attempt to evade this fire damage dungeon master?
Matthew Mercer
Not in this round.
Ashley Johnson
This is. This is our side.
Marisha Ray
I love you.
Ashley Johnson
That was a really good drawing though, Caleb, wasn't it?
Liam O'Brien
It was beautiful.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, what's that? Awesome.
Marisha Ray
Yes. Yes. Go on.
Matthew Mercer
We're down to the last part of the first half and it looks like they're starting to come apart the seams. I think you're making this up. I think you're actually getting this.
Marisha Ray
I really needed it. I was feeling a little dicey there near the back half, but it's getting better. I feel good. We've got one more game.
Matthew Mercer
Let's make it happen.
Marisha Ray
And nothing will make them seem as foolish as this. We are going to have to make a move soon.
Taliesin Jaffe
Yes, I agree. Maybe we can.
Marisha Ray
Audience. Do you love a dance off?
Ashley Johnson
I see.
Marisha Ray
Do you love a dancer?
Ashley Johnson
Hey.
Marisha Ray
Marty, tell him how it goes.
Matthew Mercer
I would like Each team to choose two dancers.
Marisha Ray
What?
Ashley Johnson
I think you two should take it.
Marisha Ray
I'm down.
Taliesin Jaffe
All right, who's the other one? You all look.
Ashley Johnson
Two dancers.
Matthew Mercer
Two dancers on your.
Liam O'Brien
I only know the waltz.
Ashley Johnson
Who's so charismatic. You're definitely a real tourist. I've seen you dance.
Liam O'Brien
Two of us.
Ashley Johnson
So many shots.
Marisha Ray
So you know, this will be a 1v1 dance off each dancer.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. Yeah, you're definitely doing it. Okay.
Marisha Ray
Each dancer will be surprised with their music track and have 15 seconds to bust a moon. Each dancer will have two 15 second spotlights to show us what they got. And audience applause will determine the winner of the round.
Ashley Johnson
They want us to die. They're going to kill us. We're going to team up.
Matthew Mercer
And who are you?
Marisha Ray
Dancers?
Matthew Mercer
Blue team.
Taliesin Jaffe
Okay.
Matthew Mercer
Roll a charisma. Check.
Ashley Johnson
Guidance. Guidance.
Taliesin Jaffe
Guidance.
Ashley Johnson
Guidance. Guidance. Grog. D4.
Liam O'Brien
D4.
Laura Bailey
D4 plus D4.
Ashley Johnson
Yeah, it'll make a difference in you going first then.
Liam O'Brien
Yeah. Okay.
Marisha Ray
Okay, okay, okay, okay.
Liam O'Brien
You're fine.
Laura Bailey
Grand 16.
Ashley Johnson
All right.
Matthew Mercer
Second dancer on this side.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, okay. Guidance who's doing it? And I'm gonna cast guidance to myself.
Matthew Mercer
Sure, fine. Go for it.
Ashley Johnson
All right, so let's see here.
Laura Bailey
Why the fuck not?
Ashley Johnson
Okay, wait, what are we. What are we rolling again?
Liam O'Brien
I've got a plus one. Should be dripping in that. What do you got? You are dance.
Marisha Ray
I can for dance.
Laura Bailey
Need more of this water.
Liam O'Brien
You want to dance? No, I'm fine either way.
Marisha Ray
You dance.
Laura Bailey
Go for it.
Taliesin Jaffe
I did read that right.
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Marisha Ray
Yeah, you got this. All right.
Matthew Mercer
Fern.
Ashley Johnson
28.
Liam O'Brien
Hardly matter at that point anyway.
Laura Bailey
Yeah.
Marisha Ray
12.
Matthew Mercer
The First Dance off is between Grog and Beauregard. Please come to the front.
Marisha Ray
Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes.
Matthew Mercer
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Ashley Johnson
Let's go. Let's go, Grog. Come on. You got this. Hang on a minute, Hang on, hang on.
Marisha Ray
Yes.
Ashley Johnson
This is tough though. Oh, good.
Marisha Ray
That's right.
Taliesin Jaffe
Real quick, real quick. Before we start, I just, honestly, I just want to show a little bit of appreciation. Okay. I just want to like.
Marisha Ray
Yeah, you know. Uh huh.
Taliesin Jaffe
Can I extract aspects from the MC with my little playful punches? Just. You're fucking crushing it, man.
Matthew Mercer
I'll allow it.
Taliesin Jaffe
Extract aspects. Can I know his vulnerabilities? I get to pick four things, right?
Matthew Mercer
Well, you learn that he is immune to charm.
Taliesin Jaffe
Immune to charm.
Matthew Mercer
Paralyzed.
Ashley Johnson
Paralyze.
Matthew Mercer
Let me see what this guy. Charm. Paralyzed and frightened. No resistances, no vulnerability.
Ashley Johnson
Sorry.
Matthew Mercer
And you also get the sense that there is a very powerful well of dark arcana within this entity.
Taliesin Jaffe
Guys, this guy's super Fucked up. He's super fucked up. He's covered.
Matthew Mercer
He's got darkness.
Marisha Ray
Okay. It's good to know. Do you want. Do you want a B Boy hat?
Ashley Johnson
Rob.
Liam O'Brien
Let'S go, Strongja. Put all that junk in that trunk.
Marisha Ray
To use Two rounds and pop that thing. That's right. Throw your pride to the side and shake it like your mama gave it to you.
Laura Bailey
Rob, who's going first?
Matthew Mercer
Grog's up for the first 15 seconds, Bo for the second, Grog for the third, and Bo for the fourth. When we're done, we'll ask the audience which side they come like dancing in front of.
Ashley Johnson
Fucking a bunch of thousands. Yeah, right.
Laura Bailey
Let's go, Chicago.
Marisha Ray
That's right, Chicago. Give it up for the CEO.
Ashley Johnson
Let's go. Let's go.
Marisha Ray
Three.
Taliesin Jaffe
Let's go.
Matthew Mercer
Two.
Ashley Johnson
Come on, bitch.
Marisha Ray
One dance.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh. Oh, this is great.
Ashley Johnson
Yes. Yes.
Taliesin Jaffe
Running Man. Hell yes. Yes.
Ashley Johnson
Break Bar.
Marisha Ray
Okay.
Ashley Johnson
Okay. Wow. There we go. Solid. Solid.
Taliesin Jaffe
Pretty good.
Matthew Mercer
Okay.
Ashley Johnson
Whoa. She's going for the.
Marisha Ray
Was that Prague?
Ashley Johnson
Oh. Oh. Wow.
Laura Bailey
Grog.
Marisha Ray
Yay. Mo. A little louder.
Taliesin Jaffe
Yeah. Couldn't hear it.
Ashley Johnson
Oh.
Taliesin Jaffe
Yes.
Marisha Ray
Oh, he's falling apart. He's just.
Taliesin Jaffe
Oh.
Matthew Mercer
Beauregard.
Taliesin Jaffe
You didn't tell me that he could do that. That he could do that.
Ashley Johnson
I didn't think he would bust it. Out. Out. I really did it. Oh.
Marisha Ray
Whoa.
Matthew Mercer
Yes.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, man.
Liam O'Brien
It has been a while since we have seen Tracy make an appearance suddenly. I understand what you're saying.
Marisha Ray
All right, you two take a bow together. Yes. You're going to cheer for each of them. And Murty will be the judge. Who thinks Grog was the winner.
Ashley Johnson
Terrible.
Marisha Ray
Enough. It's out of character, but it feels bad yelling at you. Who thinks Bo was the winner? Murty. This is going to be a tough one. And I'm sure you've got no vested interest in who wins this or not.
Matthew Mercer
Not at all. But what is this if not for raising the stakes, right? So I'm going to say, in this regard, it's a tie.
Marisha Ray
Hey.
Matthew Mercer
Which means whoever dances next is the one that decides the losing team.
Marisha Ray
Be gone. You're both too good.
Taliesin Jaffe
Hide my mic.
Matthew Mercer
So.
Ashley Johnson
You guys are so talented.
Matthew Mercer
Hurrah. The pieces.
Ashley Johnson
Really good.
Marisha Ray
I like this. Blood King's life.
Taliesin Jaffe
When I stripped and exploited myself. Thank you.
Marisha Ray
All we know about you is that you're a pirate.
Laura Bailey
I think one of my vertebrae moved.
Matthew Mercer
Fern, get on stage.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, really?
Matthew Mercer
So because it's now tied, your friends left it all on the table. The two of you are going to decide which team Wins and Which team loses? 15 seconds each.
Marisha Ray
I like it. I like it.
Matthew Mercer
We're gonna start Hawks.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, shit. This is so embarrassing. Really? Really.
Matthew Mercer
We're gonna start with Kingsley this time.
Ashley Johnson
Okay.
Matthew Mercer
15 seconds, Kingsley. 15 seconds, Fern. 15. Kingsley. 15. Fern. Are you ready?
Ashley Johnson
I cast Thomet.
Liam O'Brien
Oh, cat.
Ashley Johnson
Little dicks, like floating all around Kingsley. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. Like fireworks.
Marisha Ray
Let the dance off begin.
Taliesin Jaffe
Yes.
Marisha Ray
Soul stirring.
Liam O'Brien
I surround firm in dancing lights.
Taliesin Jaffe
Flash dance.
Marisha Ray
Yes.
Ashley Johnson
I can do the worm, too.
Marisha Ray
I can feel their power.
Ashley Johnson
I can do the worm, too. Don't worry about it. Don't worry about it.
Marisha Ray
Round two.
Ashley Johnson
Oh, come on.
Taliesin Jaffe
Hard here.
Marisha Ray
I don't hear this.
Matthew Mercer
Like, hard to hear.
Ashley Johnson
Yes. Oh, I didn't even.
Marisha Ray
That's my first mosh pin.
Ashley Johnson
I time. I was afraid I was going to die.
Matthew Mercer
All right, dancers to the front, please.
Liam O'Brien
Whatever.
Marisha Ray
Circus Vargas. Everyone to the front. Because you all danced. Center stage, please. This is the big moment before intermission, I promise. Hands up. Exhausted. Big bow to all the dancers, please. Your applause again.
Ashley Johnson
Ah.
Marisha Ray
Bow. Yes. Yes. That's right.
Ashley Johnson
What is happening?
Marisha Ray
No fucking clue, please. Give it up. If you thought the red team won.
Ashley Johnson
Let'S die.
Marisha Ray
Let's hear it for blue.
Matthew Mercer
Boss. I think we gotta give it to the blue team.
Marisha Ray
Pretty clear. If you'd be so kind as to take your seats. May I ask a question?
Taliesin Jaffe
I saw that. You back corner. I saw that.
Marisha Ray
Is this dd? Dd Dungeons and Dancing.
Ashley Johnson
Dungeons and dancing. That was dumb.
Marisha Ray
Merty. For the final time this evening, tell them what they like, lost.
Matthew Mercer
Ah, Red team. A good try, a good attempt, but unfortunately.
Ashley Johnson
Does your mama love you? Great question.
Marisha Ray
Mrs. Contreras is a wonderful woman.
Liam O'Brien
If she let you come out with that top hat, she can't love you that much. I cast vicious mockery. Mother.
Matthew Mercer
Make save on that, please.
Marisha Ray
You want me to what?
Matthew Mercer
To roll a dice and make a wisdom saving throw.
Liam O'Brien
Oh, I want to watch this face.
Marisha Ray
Wait, wait, wait, wait. You don't sound like mty. Who the are you?
Matthew Mercer
I'm a fan force beyond any moving count.
Marisha Ray
What's an 11 mean?
Matthew Mercer
11 means you fail. Go ahead and mark that damage.
Marisha Ray
That's. Where is it?
Matthew Mercer
The very back.
Liam O'Brien
It's not a lot, but it's.
Marisha Ray
What does it do?
Liam O'Brien
There's one action it's trying to see.
Ashley Johnson
You know our spells.
Matthew Mercer
See, this is D and D. Yeah.
Liam O'Brien
It doesn't actually say on my sheet right now.
Matthew Mercer
It doesn't say on my sheet. That's all right. Roll 3D4 for me.
Marisha Ray
Oh, thank you.
Liam O'Brien
There we are.
Ashley Johnson
It's hot. That's all the dancing.
Liam O'Brien
That's not right.
Marisha Ray
Hold on.
Liam O'Brien
Where's 3D4? Sorry. Yeah.
Matthew Mercer
There we are. I found them.
Liam O'Brien
They're hiding in here. These are not my normal dice. This is us. Six.
Matthew Mercer
Six points of psychic damage to Malvolio Contreras. And you feel somewhat dismayed.
Marisha Ray
Just a little twinge in the side of my head. Nothing to worry about. The space is still mine. And I throw out my hand and the studio feels like it's shrinking, getting smaller. The stage lights are getting dimmer. I throw out the other hand and you feel the heat of the park hands land on your face. And you think, this isn't right. This isn't what a show feels like. This isn't fun. I didn't just pop balloons with my ass and dance in front of 6,000 strangers.
Matthew Mercer
No.
Marisha Ray
What they feel inside instead are the burns at the soles of their feet and the slashes to their body and the twisting pain in their psyche. And I feel your applause all night long. And it fills me with power and rage. You think that's going to work now? You already gave me too much baby Murdy. Throw the fucking commercial.
Matthew Mercer
Both teams suddenly are enveloped in a flash of black flame and find yourselves shunted to a nearby green room to think and talks amongst yourselves and will return after intermission.
Ashley Johnson
What? Oh.
Laura Bailey
Oh.
Liam O'Brien
That's a wrap for part one of this podcast episode. Part two will land here this upcoming Tuesday at 5am Pacific, and we'll pick up this story right where we left off. Until next time, and we'll be back in this adventure before you know it.
Release Date: May 15, 2025
Episode Title: TOTAL PARTY KILL | Critical Role Chicago Live 2025
The Chicago Live event commenced with Matthew Mercer welcoming the excited audience and introducing the unique format of the evening—a blend of tabletop roleplaying and interactive game show elements. The participants, consisting of beloved voice actors from Critical Role, were tasked with portraying characters chosen by the audience through live voting.
The audience voted narrowly for characters such as Beauregard Lionett over Keyleth and Grog Strongjaw over Chetney Poole, setting the stage for an evening filled with personalized adventures.
Players like Travis Willingham, Taliesin Jaffe, Liam O'Brien, Sam Riegel, and Laura Bailey joined the stage, embodying their chosen characters and expressing excitement for the upcoming challenges.
Before diving into the main event, Matthew Mercer and Marisha Ray made crucial announcements to ensure the live audience and viewers at home enjoyed a spoiler-free experience. Taliesin Jaffe emphasized the importance of preserving the magic of the live performance:
Adhering to community guidelines, the cast encouraged fans to refrain from sharing real-time spoilers, maintaining the integrity and surprise of the live adventure.
The heart of the event featured a series of interactive games designed to test the participants' skills, teamwork, and improvisational abilities.
The first game, "Pop Burst," pitted the teams against each other in a strength-based competition involving popping balloons. Matthew Mercer orchestrated the game, explaining the rules and overseeing the chaos that ensued.
Unexpected moments, such as Grog Strongjaw disappearing with a comedic twist ([21:58] *"'What's going on?'"), added to the evening's unpredictable nature. The game concluded with the blue team emerging victorious, resulting in humorous punishments delivered by the MC, Marisha Ray.
Next up was "Traveler's Blessing," a dexterity-based challenge where participants attempted to toss rings onto a traveler's statue. The game required precision and coordination, testing the cast's ability to perform under pressure.
Despite mixed performances, the activity fostered camaraderie and laughter, with participants like Ashley Johnson and Laura Bailey engaging in light-hearted banter and playful sabotage.
"Tough Shot" involved participants taking shots of mysterious liquids while maintaining composure—literally and figuratively. The game was a test of endurance and restraint, pushing the cast to their limits in comedic fashion.
The challenges escalated, leading to increased roleplaying intensity as the MC introduced darker elements, heightening the stakes and setting the stage for an inevitable confrontation.
As the event progressed, the atmosphere shifted from playful competition to dramatic intensity. Matthew Mercer narrated the unfolding chaos, leading to a climactic moment where the MC, Marisha Ray, unleashed a devastating attack resulting in a Total Party Kill (TPK).
The sudden surge of dark magic, combined with the players' improvisational responses, culminated in the disbandment of the stage setup, signaling a dramatic pause in the adventure.
The episode concluded with the cast being transported backstage, marking the end of Part One of the Chicago Live event. Matthew Mercer teased the continuation of the story, promising to resume the adventure after intermission, leaving the audience eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Taliesin Jaffe on spoilers:
"[10:14] 'Don't be a dick. Don't post spoilers.'”
Ashley's humorous plea during Dexterity game:
"[113:04] 'I am fire right now.'”
Marisha Ray's playful threats:
"[73:05] 'I'll be fine. Have a seat.'”
"[118:44] 'I cast you.'”
Taliesin Jaffe on game mechanics humor:
"[16:56] 'I'm real excited.'”
"TOTAL PARTY KILL | Critical Role Chicago Live 2025" offered fans an exhilarating blend of improvisational roleplaying, live interaction, and comedic challenges. The episode showcased the cast's versatility and camaraderie, culminating in a cliffhanger that promises more thrilling adventures in Part Two. The seamless integration of humor, strategy, and unexpected twists made this live event a memorable experience for both attendees and listeners alike.
For those who missed the live excitement, stay tuned for Part Two, set to release on the following Tuesday, where the cast will navigate the aftermath of the TPK and continue their epic adventure.