What Is Gained, What Is Lost | Age of Umbra Episode 3 Part 2

Summary

Critical Role Podcast Summary: "What Is Gained, What Is Lost | Age of Umbra Episode 3 Part 2"

Introduction to Desperlock's Crisis

In "Age of Umbra Episode 3 Part 2," the adventurers find themselves in the beleaguered village of Desperlock, which is enveloped in an unsettling mist and rife with palpable fear. The sacred pyre, essential for warding off lurking darkness, has gone missing, plunging the settlement into chaos. The villagers, though trained in combat, are visibly on edge, preparing for an impending threat.

Gathering at the Central Forum

Timestamp [06:04] Mathew Mercer, portraying the Dungeon Master (DM), sets the scene as the adventurers approach the Central Forum to meet with the Triarch and other key figures. The Forum is a hive of activity with scholars from the Praxis Collective and the Xhal scholars meticulously examining ancient scrolls and tomes in search of solutions.

Discovering the Blessed Branches

Timestamp [11:49] The DM narrates a pivotal discovery: ancient writings mention "blessed branches" that could potentially restore the pyre and safeguard Desperlock. These branches are believed to be located in two perilous areas:

1. Gilded Shambles: An overgrown ruin infested with demons and fae creatures, making it a hazardous location.
2. Barrow of Blind Repose: An untouched sealed tomb of the heretic Saint Elthiar, situated in the Idol Hollows near the Astro Foundry.

Taliesin Jaffe (as a character) inquires, prompting the detailed explanation of these locations and their significance.

Formulating the Quest

Timestamp [17:40] The Triarch proposes dividing their efforts to retrieve the blessed branches from both locations. Ghost Hook, a respected vigil leader, is assigned to lead a team to the Gilded Shambles, while another contingent is tasked with the Barrow of Blind Repose.

Timestamp [19:44] A critical moment unfolds as Sam Riegel's character expresses a strong commitment to joining the mission:

Sam Riegel: "Oh no. We're leaving."

Ashley Johnson’s character adds:

Ashley Johnson: "Yes."

Deciding to Offer Support

Timestamp [28:07] Liam O'Brien deliberates the feasibility of joining Ghost Hook's already armored team:

Liam O'Brien: "I think he's really cool."

The group reaches a consensus to accompany Ghost Hook, recognizing the necessity of their unique skills:

Ashley Johnson: "I think we need you."

Preparing for the Journey

Timestamp [34:58] The adventurers make final preparations, gathering supplies and strategizing their route to the Gilded Shambles. They discuss potential challenges and the dangers that await in the demon-infested ruins.

Departure and Initial Challenges

Timestamp [41:27] As night falls, the group departs Desperlock, carrying the hopes of the villagers with them. The DM vividly describes their march out of Desperlock, highlighting the emotional weight and responsibility they bear:

Matthew Mercer (DM): "The chains pulling taut, dragging them open, everyone looks up to you... many eyes, many faces. The energy of hope..."

Journey Through the Jungle

Timestamp [64:02] Navigating through the dense jungles of Evidora, Liam O'Brien's character utilizes his ranger abilities to guide the group safely. Their path is fraught with dangers, including mysterious footfalls and the ever-present threat of corruption.

Overcoming the Raging River

Timestamp [80:06] A significant obstacle arises as the adventurers encounter a washed-out bridge over a raging river. The group must work together to traverse the dangerous waters, facing both natural challenges and unforeseen supernatural threats.

Notable Quote:

Ashley Johnson: "I will be okay. And at the end of the day, if I'm not, then maybe I will be set free and I get to go home."

Strengthening Bonds Amidst Adversity

Throughout the episode, the characters engage in heartfelt dialogues, expressing their fears, hopes, and the deepening bonds within the group. These interactions add depth to their personalities and motivations, enhancing the narrative's emotional resonance.

Conclusion and Cliffhanger

Timestamp [95:44] As night deepens, the adventurers find themselves atop the sunken ramparts overlooking the perilous path to the Gilded Shambles. The DM leaves listeners on a tense cliffhanger, setting the stage for the next episode:

Matthew Mercer (DM): "...the light of day begins to fade as you begin to reach the end of the perimeter of the jungle..."

Key Insights and Themes

• Hope vs. Despair: The adventurers symbolically carry the village's hope, highlighting the theme of light prevailing over darkness.
• Teamwork and Sacrifice: The group's willingness to split their efforts and support each other underscores the importance of unity in facing daunting challenges.
• Courage in the Face of Danger: The characters consistently demonstrate bravery, motivating listeners to root for their success.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Sam Riegel: "Oh no. We're leaving."

   • [19:44]

2. Ashley Johnson: "Yes."

   • [19:44]

3. Liam O'Brien: "I think he's really cool."

   • [28:07]

4. Ashley Johnson: "I think we need you."

   • [28:23]

5. Ashley Johnson: "I will be okay. And at the end of the day, if I'm not, then maybe I will be set free and I get to go home."

   • [70:30]

Conclusion

"What Is Gained, What Is Lost | Age of Umbra Episode 3 Part 2" is a gripping continuation of the Age of Umbra campaign, blending intense role-playing, emotional character development, and a richly woven narrative. The adventurers' journey from Desperlock into the treacherous jungles embodies themes of hope, sacrifice, and resilience, promising an exciting continuation in the subsequent episodes.

Transcript

[Ashley Johnson]

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[Matthew Mercer]

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[Liam O'Brien]

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[Travis Willingham]

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[Ashley Johnson]

Hey there critters. This is Ashley Johnson and Telus and Jeffy and we're popping in here to talk about our new podcast on Beacon. Weird Kids.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

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 today.

[Ashley Johnson]

We're covering so many topics like antique toys, taxidermy, Japanese pop culture, and honestly, anything else we come up with.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

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.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

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.

[Matthew Mercer]

Hey there, Matthew Mercer here, and you're listening to part two of this episode of Age of Umbra, a dark tale and campaign setting from our recently released tabletop RPG Daggerheart from Darrington Press. If you haven't checked out part one yet, pause this now and head over there first. Otherwise, let's return to our adventurers striving against the darkness in part two. And welcome back. So you've all managed to get a long rest. So for that you get two long rest actions to take as part of your downtime actions means you can tend to all wounds, you can clear all stress, you can repair all armor. You can prepare, which means you gain a hope. And if you prepare with somebody else, you may each take two hope. So as long as two of you take prepare action, each of you can get two hope instead of one. You can also work on a project if you had a project you wanted to work on over time, whether it be like crafting things or researching a thing in particular not necessarily pertaining to this story. If you don't feel it, sure, you can take a good start beginning if you want to, but those are your options.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I literally make it myself.

[Matthew Mercer]

I also gain 1D4 fear plus the number of PCs.

[Sam Riegel]

1D4 plus the number of PCs, that's 4.

[Matthew Mercer]

9 fear.

[Liam O'Brien]

Oh, that's all of that.

[Travis Willingham]

Your dice to clear stress.

[Liam O'Brien]

I also used your dice to clear stress.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah, great.

[Liam O'Brien]

Okay, so I'm done with stress. I will use I will. I will clear hit points and repair armor.

[Ashley Johnson]

I think I'm going to do the boring.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Does anyone want hope or no?

[Travis Willingham]

I mean, I never say no to hope.

[Liam O'Brien]

Never say no. It's like prepare together.

[Sam Riegel]

Also repaired armor.

[Matthew Mercer]

You don't gain new hope at the start of the day. So outside of rolling downtime, actions are how you gain hope.

[Sam Riegel]

My prayer dice are good too. That's just the beginning of each session.

[Matthew Mercer]

Correct.

[Travis Willingham]

I finally get my unstoppable back.

[Liam O'Brien]

Unstoppable.

[Ashley Johnson]

At the beginning of the day. Just the morning. I'm going to use my troubadour gifted performer card. And I'm going to use heartbreaking song. Okay, so you and all your allies within close range when we're close together gain a hope.

[Matthew Mercer]

Okay, so all of you gain hope. Are any of you using us too?

[Ashley Johnson]

Everybody.

[Matthew Mercer]

All of you gain hope from her ability.

[Travis Willingham]

She played a sad song.

[Ashley Johnson]

I played a sad song for does.

[Matthew Mercer]

Anybody want to spend a keep watch action? Because there's currently no sacred pyre keeping the lurking darkness at bay.

[Ashley Johnson]

I was planning that. I was keeping watch last night.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

But you have stuff you needed to.

[Ashley Johnson]

But I mean, I also get my fancy thing. I can technically take a long rest with a short rest, but if I use one of those actions.

[Sam Riegel]

Plus we're in desperate looking. There are vigil around too. It's not just us.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah, right. So you don't have to. You can just risk the dice roll. No one's keeping.

[Sam Riegel]

What do you want to do?

[Ashley Johnson]

I would keep watch.

[Sam Riegel]

Good.

[Ashley Johnson]

I would keep watch.

[Matthew Mercer]

Do it.

[Ashley Johnson]

Okay, I'm gonna not do my. I'm not gonna do my armor slots, but I am gonna get rid of my damage hp.

[Liam O'Brien]

Okay.

[Ashley Johnson]

I know other people are watching, but I miss you. Would keep watching.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I was gonna say I feel like you need that. I can handle watch and it will hurt me less. You need those armor slots back. Not even mess around. Okay, so at some point in the night, I just finally tap you go to sleep. We need you fresh.

[Ashley Johnson]

Okay.

[Matthew Mercer]

All right. Got it. So you can clear your armor slots and you are spending one of your dahama actions to keep watch. Go ahead and roll a D12.10. Do you want me to use your dice or mine?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I'm trying to remember which one is.

[Matthew Mercer]

Higher is better for you folks.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Okay, so that would be. Keep mine there. I'll keep mine.

[Matthew Mercer]

Keep yours. Okay. For a 10. The party rests undisturbed. No effect.

[Sam Riegel]

Nice.

[Ashley Johnson]

We made it through the night.

[Sam Riegel]

Nice.

[Matthew Mercer]

August, do you want to know?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Yes.

[Matthew Mercer]

I'm not going to tell you. No, honestly, I rolled a 12 which would have given you all a hope. So I. Oh, sometimes you don't know it's a 1 out of 12 chance.

[Sam Riegel]

That's why we shouldn't have asked.

[Travis Willingham]

Yeah, that's why I didn't want to know. I take it back.

[Matthew Mercer]

It's 1 in 12 chance that it's beneficial to you all. But you never know because sometimes you might take mine and mine's a two. A one.

[Travis Willingham]

Yeah.

[Matthew Mercer]

Which is you fighting. Anyway, as you all wake up and begin to gather, the first thing you notice is the village sits with a heavy mist that it hasn't in all the time you've been here. With the pyre missing, there is just a hanging moisture in the air that seems to push in from the nearby jungle. That unsettled sense permeates the entirety of the settlement. The populace, while conversing, are quieter than normal. The conversation is sparse and quick. People walk with haste and paranoid glances. The very air of Desperlock is one of universal fear. But people are also gathering their arms and armaments. The civilians, most all enduring, are trained in some sort of combat and able to defend themselves with arms, weapons, swords, blade, stone. Life here in the Halcyon domain is one perpetually on the edge of danger. So it's not just the vigil, but the entire civilian military that has risen up to join them. For the time being, you can't help but glance over and see teens, even children themselves, are trying to hold themselves stoic in the face of brimming emotion, themselves now holding onto a small wooden pike or some form of way to keep themselves safe within the walls. It's a very different Desperlock this morning than what you're used to, but from the wailing and the despair from the night before, there is a growing strength in that silence, as everyone seems to be doing the best they can to shore up for. For what's ahead. Is there anything you wish to do before you head towards the Central Forum to meet up with the Triarch and others?

[Liam O'Brien]

We're just meeting to see what's going on, right? We're not setting off on any adventure.

[Matthew Mercer]

No, you're just getting. Well, you had presented yourselves as interest, but there's been no job, direction or anything. Most everyone is trying to figure out what to do next next.

[Sam Riegel]

I'm sure we'll have time to store up on stuff if we need to before we go.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I'm putting on my passes for a clean shirt.

[Travis Willingham]

No, it'd be nice to get some potions or something.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

That would be nice.

[Travis Willingham]

Some supplies, if whatever exists within the walls.

[Matthew Mercer]

You all eventually step towards the Forum and there is a good 40 or so people all gathered around, if anything, clinging to the Triarch's proximity for some semblance of normalcy, some semblance of direction. As they are talking, you can see there are multiple members of the Higher scholars from the Praxis Collective and the scholars of the Xhal present. Indeed. Idrova has returned. You see Thalia, who you've seen around as well. The young elf human figure who shyly wide eyed nods without speaking amongst the other members of the scholars that are debating and sharing notes and looking at each other's books and tomes and writing things down to the side.

[Travis Willingham]

She's the one that Halloran said he trusted, right?

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah.

[Travis Willingham]

Okay.

[Matthew Mercer]

Raskello and Etwashi are present, the two Head Delvers. Raskello still heavily hurt and recovering bandaged, but feeling it important enough to be present to show face as well as keep spirits together amongst the Delvers and other folks that he interacts with. You can see Beryl Spearbor of the Works member of the Triarch present as well, talking with numerous of the Guides. Ember Warden is present as well. There is a renewed air of purpose here that is a welcome contrast to the emotions of the night before. Number of the vigil leadership is present, though the walls still have much of the vigil out there keeping watch. You also notice as you're walking here that they have two bestial corpses that are currently being butchered off one of the sides. It looks like even through the night there were a few incursions of some strange beasts that attempted to charge the walls, were slain and are being currently inspected for safety if they can be eaten or if the corruption's gotten too strong within them. But as you begin to step up you can already see the number of the vigil that are keeping the perimeter and keeping a separation between those who are part of this conversation and the general populace a little bit separate. Nod over towards you and you see Ghost Hook is currently in mid conversation with Idrova and nodding and he glances over towards you, gives a nod. Idrova notices, looks and says welcome. You can see now Idrova looks very tired. Most of the scholars here look like they haven't slept through the night and they all have all gathered scrolls and scraps of material and vellium and tattered old mildewed papers all just covered in script and scrawling. You can see basically they brought the majority of anything that writes of old world history scripture that they've recovered and have here under the scholars in desperate lock out and spread them across multiple tables here in the forum so they could be pored over, researched and looked. And Idrova after acknowledging Eulogis we may have a couple of possibilities here. I was talking here with Ghost Hook and snaps her fingers and you see Beryl and Trevor turn and gather as well. Their figures begin to collect around throughout the night. We have made a few possibilities apparent to us. We Found writings that had some mention of blessed branches that were noted either interred locations or protected and sealed, in which case there has been no further mention. And tracing the lines of branches that have been confirmed amongst the various settlements over the past century, neither of these spaces have been confirmed or disturbed for the branches to have been moved or taken. As far as we know, if one of these branches can be acquired and returned here, then we could restart our pyre and bring safety back to the walls of Desperlock. You can see at this point Trevor goes, we're also curious if we were to try and reach out and possibly get supplies or help from Volkoru down the way. Worse comes to worst, we consider the possibility of moving the population of Desper Lock to Vulcoru. But that many people on these roads through the jungle and the ashen sea side is a death march, especially with an umbra wind, dew. So we really have no confirmation if they even have room. Ul will take us. For Koru is very secure in what it has, so at the very least we might send a few missives that way in hopes of at least establishing their knowledge of our condition. And if they have any additional supplies and maybe some extra hands that they can send to help try and keep our vigil bolstered would be very useful. Anyway, I apologize for interrupting. And a driver goes, not a worry. One of these mentions one of these branches. It is noted to have been lost in the gilded shambles to the far northwest across the wastes, once carried by a caravan seeking to establish a settlement there. They vanished among the overgrown ruins of the gilded spires that fell 70 years ago. From what we could ascertain, it was noted that a fiendish influence had spread since the fall of those towers, and that demons and their allies play and feast amongst the ivy covered walls there, singing alluring songs to draw enduring into their lairs. So, a dangerous locale, but one in which a pyre does not burn and where a branch may reside. The other possibility we have, you see, puts her hand out and Thalia goes, yes, of course, sorry. And brings one book, two books, looks at both, finds the one and hands it over to Idrova.

[Laura Bailey]

Thank you.

[Matthew Mercer]

Thalia filters through. There is also mention in this one tome of a blessed branch that was interred within the barrow of Blind Repose. It's a tomb of the heretic Saint Elthiar, high in the idol hollows not far from the astro foundry north of Amereach. That one is an untouched sealed tomb and likely a bit safer than the gilded Shambles of these two. And you see Hadover looks over. The Triac has already spoken and been notified amongst those beyond of a number of interested parties in being part of this endeavor. And thank you for your recommendation. Given what you've accomplished and your proximity to the events of the past day, we have agreed it is in the best interests of Desperlock to divide a.

[Laura Bailey]

Troop to each of these locales.

[Matthew Mercer]

As such, Ghost Hook is to take a number of his closest vigil and will be sent to the gilded shambles. Him and his team will seek the branch. There in these demon influenced realms. There's a pause and a turn and a nod. And you see Ghost Hook is just arms crossed and just goes. Should you still be willing to offer your hand, we would send your troop to the Barrow of blind repose. Is this something you would still have wherewithal and bravery to step towards?

[Sam Riegel]

Oh no. We're leaving.

[Matthew Mercer]

Ghost Hook goes.

[Sam Riegel]

You could count on us.

[Ashley Johnson]

Yes.

[Laura Bailey]

Very well.

[Matthew Mercer]

That night.

[Travis Willingham]

You mentioned that an umbra wind is due. Do we know how soon?

[Matthew Mercer]

Trevor cannot have said what that means. The winds of the umbra move without true definable purpose or mathematical expectation.

[Travis Willingham]

Your closest estimation is fine.

[Matthew Mercer]

They commonly wander every six to 12 months.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Bless you.

[Matthew Mercer]

Shh. We are at seven months since the last umbra window.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Oh.

[Matthew Mercer]

So the big one. It could be months away. It could be tomorrow.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Tomorrow?

[Matthew Mercer]

So haste is necessary? I don't know. What can we offer them? Direction. I am not certain how many of you have been beyond the walls, far from Desperlock.

[Liam O'Brien]

Do I know of the area they're talking about?

[Matthew Mercer]

Y' all have never heard of this? How about, you know the Amber Reach? You've heard of the Astor Foundry? They said north in the idol hollows. You know those mountains that the Greif Cleft turned into the idol hollows to the very north and encircled the entire valley of the housing domain. The Astra Foundry. You've heard of. And they just said. But you don't know where it is? They said north of Amber Reach.

[Liam O'Brien]

So I've been to Amber Reach. I've been to Idyll Hollows.

[Matthew Mercer]

You've seen them?

[Liam O'Brien]

Seen them?

[Matthew Mercer]

They're.

[Liam O'Brien]

Do you have to go through both to get to where they're talking about? Or would I be able to plot a direction?

[Matthew Mercer]

It's possible. As Idrova reaches over and pulls out a scroll and sets upon Theo a layout. Desperlocke sits this way in the jungles of Evidora with the Luzal Monastery. Trevor points out you would have to Travel across the sunken rampart to Vokoru, the next sacred pyre and place of safety. Also a possibility of gathering materials, possibly other information. Whatever you can find, they can be a bit stoic. They are largely elven and many of them have lived through the majority of the Age of Umbra and have been hardened through it. So just be prepared. Above that you'll have to travel through the Screaming Forest until you.

[Sam Riegel]

Screaming Forest.

[Liam O'Brien]

It's ironic they don't scream.

[Matthew Mercer]

Don't worry about it. It's not ironic. Idrova goes a quite dangerous space of corrupted nature. Best to move quietly and quickly throughout. Trevor takes up. You'll have to reach and get through the Amber Gate into Amber Reach itself. There are multiple paths through the city across the Drowned Sprawl. You can decide which quarter seems best. I've not been there and I've heard very few good things about it. But I also know that there are some who withstand the shadow and the chaos throughout Amber Reach. So perhaps if you look to the various pyres, some may be friendly, others maybe not so much. So take care. Traveling through the Ember Reach, eventually, the Astro Foundry sits towards its northern apex and beyond that the Barrow of Blind Repose in the Idol hollows. This is where Ghost Hook and his team are traveling.

[Travis Willingham]

Oh, I see.

[Liam O'Brien]

So I know how to at least get them most of the way there.

[Matthew Mercer]

You know how to get them into the Amber Reach, but you've only probably been just past the Drowned Sprawl, and you have not gone deeper than that because one the Ashcall Quarter, where the Selesian Athenium is, that is a locked off fortress that is perpetually surrounded around its base by terrifying creatures and twisted, lumbering bipedal things that just wait. Like, there's something within that athenium they all seek.

[Sam Riegel]

That's the nearest pyre too.

[Matthew Mercer]

However, over in the Basilica Corridor or the Cinnabar Corridor are also areas where a number of marauding factions make home. So all paths are fraught with danger, but the directional choice will ultimately be yours and what you feel is safest, and those are all the reasons why you have not really gone past the Drowned Quarter.

[Liam O'Brien]

I explain all this to them and I'll just say, like, you guys, I know that you're brave and you want to do good and all this stuff, but you guys don't even know half of what's out there. It's scary, and if you're not fast, it's bad. It's real bad. So are you sure you guys want to do this, I can get you part of the way.

[Sam Riegel]

Well, yeah, we're gonna be with you. We have all the help we need.

[Liam O'Brien]

Part of the way. But as soon as we get to the Amber Reach, I'm. I'm good. I'm good.

[Sam Riegel]

You're good to keep going?

[Liam O'Brien]

No, I'm good to go back or somewhere else.

[Travis Willingham]

But you've been as far as Okros, which is all the way over here. You've delivered letters.

[Liam O'Brien]

Yeah, yeah, but that's over there. And we're not going there.

[Travis Willingham]

Well, I guess that's another question. Whereas, what path is Ghost Hook taking? Could we travel at least with Ghost.

[Matthew Mercer]

Took leans forward here and point says.

[Ashley Johnson]

Oh, that's a good idea.

[Laura Bailey]

We are making our path. I say this with utmost respect. We need to move quickly. And your troop is slow.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Is there any way to avoid the screaming force?

[Laura Bailey]

Ghost of looks says, can you swim?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Fuck.

[Sam Riegel]

Do you breathe? Could you just walk along the bottom of the.

[Ashley Johnson]

I could probably try.

[Sam Riegel]

We'll get a bucket of water. You don't have to.

[Liam O'Brien]

You don't want to go the Okros way anyway. Besides the swimming part, it's dangerous up there. It's bad. It's not safe.

[Ashley Johnson]

How long is the journey?

[Matthew Mercer]

You see Ghost Hook and looks over.

[Laura Bailey]

The map and goes. Continuous travel, minimal risks. You could probably make it to the Barrow. Little over a week, maybe two.

[Ashley Johnson]

That is a long time for desperate to be without a pyre.

[Laura Bailey]

If you have a better alternative, please present it to the triarch.

[Ashley Johnson]

I do not.

[Matthew Mercer]

I just.

[Laura Bailey]

My team can make it to the gilded shambles, a further journey in a week. Perhaps we can return at the same time with two branches.

[Sam Riegel]

Let's hope so.

[Liam O'Brien]

Without you guys, I could probably do.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

It in a week.

[Liam O'Brien]

Oh, it's just.

[Ashley Johnson]

You're more than welcome to go on your own.

[Liam O'Brien]

No, I don't want. I mean, I could, but I don't.

[Travis Willingham]

You are very brave.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

It's very courageous of you.

[Liam O'Brien]

I don't. I just don't. I don't want to show off.

[Ashley Johnson]

Would you rather go alone?

[Matthew Mercer]

Probably.

[Travis Willingham]

Do you want to go with Ghost Hook?

[Liam O'Brien]

I think he's really cool.

[Sam Riegel]

We're right here.

[Liam O'Brien]

I wouldn't mind, actually. Maybe I'll do that. Maybe. You guys will be okay, right?

[Ashley Johnson]

I think we need you.

[Liam O'Brien]

You wouldn't be able to get through any of this without a guide and your boomerang.

[Travis Willingham]

Yeah, you're trusty.

[Matthew Mercer]

Boomerang.

[Sam Riegel]

You are mvp.

[Ashley Johnson]

Yeah.

[Liam O'Brien]

I mean, I've killed everyone we've met.

[Sam Riegel]

You really have.

[Matthew Mercer]

Wow. Put it like that.

[Sam Riegel]

You want to run. And you're the deadliest.

[Travis Willingham]

Yeah.

[Sam Riegel]

We'Re just dead weight. I'd kill us as soon as we're asleep.

[Matthew Mercer]

Barrel Spearborg comes up behind him, pats you on the shoulder. Her sharpened tusks. One that holds a strong brass ring. And it leans forward. And you have been traveling all throughout.

[Laura Bailey]

The Wastes as of late, this is correct, yes? Yes. Then you would be an important individual to present this troop, perhaps to the barons of Okoru.

[Matthew Mercer]

You have dealings with the barons there?

[Laura Bailey]

Yes.

[Liam O'Brien]

I mean, I've been to Okoru. I've encountered the barons. I wouldn't call us pals or Volkuru. Are you talking about Okoru or Volkaru?

[Matthew Mercer]

Oh, Volkuru.

[Liam O'Brien]

Yes. Yes. Yeah, I've been there. I've been there. Yes, I know the barons. I know of the Barons. I don't know if they know me by name. Maybe not by name, but they probably know me by. There's Travis. There's Travis, Travis and Lothosharis. Is that right?

[Matthew Mercer]

Your pronunciation needs some work, but yes. Whoever amongst you perhaps has the best and just looks away from the massive eight winged statue. The most welcoming demeanor. Who wishes to engage with the barons of Okoru, please notify them of our plight. Respectfully, Ghost Hook, perhaps not the most diplomatic Personas amongst your vigil in Ghost to Ghost.

[Laura Bailey]

No offense taken.

[Travis Willingham]

Well, as the Ember warden stated, the Pyre Keepers are a guild that stretches across all of the Halcyon Zohene, so maybe that'll pull some sway.

[Matthew Mercer]

Good. Hold on to that. Well, we know not how much time we have, and it is not worth wasting. Gather what supplies you need for this journey. We'll provide all that we can. We cannot provide everything, for we have.

[Laura Bailey]

To keep ourselves safe here. They waver.

[Matthew Mercer]

A lot of our future rests in your hands. So make haste.

[Laura Bailey]

Choose to run.

[Matthew Mercer]

And may whatever divine spirits remain in.

[Laura Bailey]

This cursed land lend a little bit of good fortune to each and every one of you.

[Matthew Mercer]

Pats the second dust from her hands, gives a sturdy salute in her chest. And then turns off. I drove a kind of knots. I do hope you will succeed.

[Laura Bailey]

I believe you will.

[Matthew Mercer]

She turns and walks away. Trevor smiles. We've endured a lot. And we're still here. We're still here. And turns and walks away. Hi, Zoe Saldana. Welcome to T Mobile. Here's your new iPhone 16 Pro on us.

[Ashley Johnson]

Thanks.

[Matthew Mercer]

And here's my old phone to trade in. You don't need to trade in when you switch to T Mobile. We'll give you a new iPhone 16 Pro plus we'll help you pay off your old Phone up to 800 bucks and you still get to keep it. There's always a trade in.

[Ashley Johnson]

Not right now.

[Matthew Mercer]

@ T Mobile.

[Ashley Johnson]

I feel like I have to give you something in return for karma.

[Matthew Mercer]

That's okay. I don't really have much in my purse.

[Ashley Johnson]

Oh, let's see.

[Matthew Mercer]

Hand sanitizer. It's lavender. I'm good. Seriously. Let me check this pocket. Oh, mints. Really, I'm fine. Oh, I have raisins.

[Ashley Johnson]

I'm a mom.

[Matthew Mercer]

Wait, wait one sec. I've got cupcakes in the car. It's our best iPhone offer ever. Switch to T Mobile. Get a new iPhone 16 Pro with.

[Marisha Ray]

Apple intelligence on us.

[Matthew Mercer]

No trade in needed.

[Marisha Ray]

We'll even pay off your phone up.

[Matthew Mercer]

To 800 bucks with 24 monthly bill credits. New line 100 plus a month on experience beyond Finance Agreement 999.99 and qualifying.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Ported for well qualified plus tax and.

[Matthew Mercer]

$10 connection charge pay off via virtual.

[Zoe Saldana]

Prepaid for allow 15 days credits end amounts due.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

If you pay off earlier, cancel See.

[Zoe Saldana]

T mobile.com you know you've got a comeback in you. When you take the next step, you're going to make it count. For your career, for your family, for your life. You can earn a degree you're proud of with Purdue Global. Purdue Global is backed by Purdue University, one of the nation's most respected and innovative public universities. This is your chance. This is your opportunity. This is your comeback. Purdue Global, Purdue's online university for working adults. Start your comeback today at purdueglobal.

[Matthew Mercer]

Edu. Race the rudders. Race the sails. Race the sails. Captain, an unidentified ship is approaching. Over. Roger, wait. Is that an enterprise sales solution?

[Marisha Ray]

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[Unknown Speaker]

We all belong outside. We're drawn to nature. Whether it's the recorded sounds of the ocean we doze off to or the succulents that adorn our homes. Nature makes all of our lives, well, better. Despite all this, we often go about our busy lives removed from it. But the outdoors is closer than we realize. With alltrails, you can discover trails nearby and explore. Explore confidently with offline maps and on trail navigation. Download the free app today.

[Sam Riegel]

We'll need to restock before we head out.

[Travis Willingham]

Perhaps Trevo could spare A few potions.

[Liam O'Brien]

Anything else?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Thalia might help as well. Maybe.

[Ashley Johnson]

Do we need to ask her anything?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I would take anything they have.

[Liam O'Brien]

Sure. I mean, the one thing that we might need to know is. And maybe I would know this. I don't know if we're going to be interfacing with the barons of Volkoru. Do I know or do I know anything about what they like, what gifts to present them, what they covet, what might win their favor due to its.

[Matthew Mercer]

Location and its very protective, insular community. They are a trade post. They are very much the most effective trade post across the Wastes. They also engage with some factions of the Amber Reach. So whatever seems to be a strong trade candidate. Especially when it comes to old relics. Anything of power of the old world is worth a lot in the age of Umbra.

[Travis Willingham]

Well, we have some of that.

[Liam O'Brien]

We do. Don't want to give up our stuff.

[Travis Willingham]

No, I don't.

[Matthew Mercer]

But it's worth a lot if you want to.

[Liam O'Brien]

Sure. Do the pyre keepers have any old relics that we maybe borrow for the trip?

[Travis Willingham]

We're a fairly humble bunch of basically peasants ascribed to a life of indentured servitude. But I could certainly ask.

[Liam O'Brien]

Or we could ask Thalia if the scholars have anything.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Praxis would be a way to go.

[Travis Willingham]

What about your crazy old drunkard? You think he has anything hidden in that hoard?

[Liam O'Brien]

You saw that house. It's all crap.

[Travis Willingham]

I guess I'll do a quick. We don't have to role play, but I'll just quickly ask Ember wardens if she has anything to donate to the cause.

[Matthew Mercer]

In checking around, like you said, there isn't a lot of material wealth or anything beyond keepsakes that hold personal meaning. And those that hold personal meaning you gathered the night before. So nothing old world wise. The pyre itself was the focus. Yes, but the Ember warden does for you. Words of comfort and support. And more or less, as much as it shakes you to see her shaken, it also empowers you. From subservient position you've held since childhood at her side, to now see yourself as more of a equal. And there is strength in that.

[Liam O'Brien]

Can I hustle around the village.

[Ashley Johnson]

And.

[Liam O'Brien]

Not quite knowing what I'm going to end up with, can I attempt a trade up? So I want to take my nails and equipment and try to trade it to some of my regular customers for a bag of fresh chestnuts, and then trade that for an old belt buckle. And then trade that for some paint pigments. And then trade that For a fine wooden chest and then see how high up I can get to something cool.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah, yeah.

[Travis Willingham]

Experiment that we all had to do in elementary school. Start with a paperclip and see what you can get.

[Matthew Mercer]

That's really funny. Yeah. Go ahead and roll a present. Roll for me if you don't mind.

[Liam O'Brien]

I don't have any presents. Can I use my well?

[Sam Riegel]

No.

[Liam O'Brien]

Well traveled won't help me there, will it? All right, I'm just going to roll presents.

[Matthew Mercer]

Good looking out.

[Liam O'Brien]

12 with hope.

[Matthew Mercer]

12 with hope. So go ahead and take a hope. Talking to most folks, you gather one of the downsides of this period of panic is people are very instinctually holding on to whatever they have because there's always a chance that's all they're going to have to get by. So most folks are packing things in case an unexpected attack comes onto desperlock. People need to be ready to just go. So it's hard pressed at first. You do manage to talk up a little bit. I'll say as far as general loot capability with what you get there. You get some travel sleeping gear, some blankets, Some things that just give you a little more comfort in the road. Most of your living spaces here. Living spaces. I couldn't help myself.

[Liam O'Brien]

Big sponsors.

[Sam Riegel]

Summoned by the umbra itself.

[Matthew Mercer]

Couldn't stop myself just channeling my brother.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

No, not that one.

[Matthew Mercer]

So you do get a couple of travel tents from folks that are willing to give them up, which will give you a little bit of additional comfort when sleeping. I will say you also get some specialized tools that can be used more or less what was an old crowbar and a hammer. Okay.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

That's good.

[Matthew Mercer]

Nice. And I'll say for the best of what you found in that house, you do get to trade up for one stamina potion. Okay.

[Liam O'Brien]

Okay. Amazing. That was a lot of talking.

[Travis Willingham]

That's good.

[Liam O'Brien]

Got some stuff.

[Travis Willingham]

You did good.

[Liam O'Brien]

Yeah. Yeah. I had to make a lot of promises that probably won't fulfill.

[Matthew Mercer]

While you're gathering things. It looks like ghost hook and three other vigil members are already armored up and about to leave. And as they're about to, they're finishing gathering some things like putting their weapons on their back, Getting their travel gear situated, their heavy cloaks for the possibility of weather. Ghost hook sees you idle and walks up to you and throws an arm around your shoulder and pulls you away from the populace. And as he walks, he goes.

[Laura Bailey]

I have had my eye on you for some time. And you carry something that concerns me. You walk with some golden echo that follows There is a power in your veins I know not the source of. And the very fact that you survive amongst the events of recent days means something wants you to keep going. You have a passion, and I can see that you walk towards whatever this promise might be. Yes.

[Sam Riegel]

Yes.

[Laura Bailey]

You are not the first I have seen like this. And you would not be the first I have cut down for giving in to such corruption, if that is what it is. You could be the savior to this community, or you could be its doom, and I do not know which is which. What I hope is what you follow is righteous and true cause. When we return, you will have to prove it to me, or I will cut you down before you tear this city to the ground.

[Sam Riegel]

I think that seems and sounds fair. If you happen to return with a blessed branch before we do. I have great respect for you. You've given this.

[Laura Bailey]

Community.

[Sam Riegel]

A sense of safety. Something I haven't seen much of outside of these walls. I strive to meet that. I won't let you. Or. Desperate Lockdown.

[Matthew Mercer]

Turns and puts his hand on both your shoulders and looks you dead in the eye.

[Laura Bailey]

Move swift, strike true. Stand against the dark and do whatever it takes. And when you return, let it be in celebration and not at sorts. Pat, Pat. Travel safe, either.

[Travis Willingham]

Oh.

[Sam Riegel]

His hands are like boulders.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

It's insane.

[Sam Riegel]

It's like getting hit with five rolls of quarters. He's so cool.

[Travis Willingham]

He's so cool.

[Liam O'Brien]

Well, do we want to talk to Thalia? Do we want to talk to potion man, or are we. Yeah, you want to go to do Thalia.

[Matthew Mercer]

Okay.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

And with the skull.

[Matthew Mercer]

So you head over to the northern edge of the skull.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Thank you.

[Travis Willingham]

Oh, right, right.

[Matthew Mercer]

And band. You head to the northern edge of Death, to the Praxis Collective. You can see where all the gathered domiciles and study tents all have arranged. It doesn't take you too terribly long for the couple questions especially most folks now have. Or whispers have gotten around of those that are traveling beyond in the hopes of returning with salvation of the village. So few get in your way at all as you step through. It's odd. It took this much tragedy to feel like you can walk freely in this space, but here you are. Until eventually you're brought to one of the side tents where you can see a number of scrolls that were brought out to the center of the village are being replaced and organized. Indeed, Thalia is currently checking notes and setting them up into the proper cubbies before stopping. Oh, hello.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Hi.

[Matthew Mercer]

We haven't actually, I believe, met, but I've seen you Talking with others not properly. August. Sorry.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

How do you do?

[Matthew Mercer]

Good.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I am going to take off my jacket, my hat and my.

[Travis Willingham]

Do you let your mouth show?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Oh, yeah.

[Matthew Mercer]

You see, her hand briefly goes towards the edge of the table where there is a cane settled off to the side and just.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

We're at the point now where I'm tired of hiding. My worst fears are all come true at this point. So I hope you understand what I'm. What I'm laying bare right now. I love this place and the safety it's given me. And I dare you to find anyone in this town would say one thing against me or my companion, I would be shocked. So for my last day here, since. For my last day here, the hat was getting itchy. You come highly recommended. I wanted to show you something.

[Matthew Mercer]

Okay. Certainly.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

We found this deep, deep inside where everything went wrong.

[Matthew Mercer]

Is it safe to.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I think now it is. And I float it.

[Matthew Mercer]

She reaches over and takes a piece of sackcloth on the side and collects it from the air and then goes, wait, you made that go. Are you an eso Eva?

[Laura Bailey]

Yes.

[Matthew Mercer]

You keep that quite hidden. You do.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Well, times being what they are.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah. Best you continue to just in case. All of doesn't bother me really. But others it might of course, wish away.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I needed your trust and I needed it quickly.

[Matthew Mercer]

Sorry, I panicked a bit for the cane. I didn't know we were doing it first anyway. And she said to Dylan, I scream.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

When I looked in the mirror in the morning.

[Matthew Mercer]

Don't we all? M. She sits there on the table and goes, no, wait, wait. You said you got this way.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Oh, God. It was at the doors of the doors of the vault, if I remember. Monastery of the monastery. Thank you. Where everything went wrong.

[Matthew Mercer]

Doors of the monastery. You went to the monastery?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Well, to the doors before.

[Matthew Mercer]

Oh, the gate, yeah. No, we're Rascalo. Oh, you were with Rascalo. I'm so sorry. He's recovering, though. That's good. This is incredible.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Yeah. It's where Aaron got sick.

[Matthew Mercer]

It's damaged. There are pieces missing. I don't know where the. Oh, I have troubled through history, man.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I'm going to bring out the rest of it in the.

[Matthew Mercer]

Oh, this shouldn't have come off. Well, I stand now. Okay. Yeah. These markings. Hold on, hold on. Goes through upper shelf and drags over a chair and steps up into it and starts pouring through. I think it's one of these two. Brings it down. No, not that one. Here we go. Yeah, yeah. And pulls out and shows you a page and you can see there's a sketch of that skull and the iron band on the jaw. This is the skull of Vashathu of the Broken Call. They were. What's the word I'm looking for? They were a silver tongued devil. Yeah. They. They had begun to. It says here, leak blasphemy into the ears of the faithful. And had begun to infiltrate the halls of Luzol and the. The Cinnabar region of Amber Reach before being tried and sentenced to execution. But during the execution, it looks like shadows of which it had pacted with began to protect it from the blade. And in a great holy conflict was struck down and bound. Its flesh carved from the skull, its bone made sealed, and its shadow kept at bay, and is sealed within the mastery. Yeah.

[Travis Willingham]

Great.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah. This is quite a find. Yeah.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

All of that definitely tracks with what happened up there. There was shadows and ichor and some blind faithful.

[Matthew Mercer]

I'm listening.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Ravings. Before Velk died, he was just gone mad.

[Matthew Mercer]

Wraps it up.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Train and.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Right. I'm very impressed with this bookshelf, by the way.

[Matthew Mercer]

Oh, thank you. It's just one of our various archives people that.

[Laura Bailey]

Where I'm from.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah. Are we done?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I. I hope you can learn more about that once we get back.

[Laura Bailey]

Of course.

[Matthew Mercer]

Of course.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I appreciate it.

[Matthew Mercer]

No, thank you.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

You don't happen to have anything that might be useful for us? On our way. It's fine if you don't.

[Matthew Mercer]

Takes a. Looks like a fur shawl that was kind of curled in the corner and goes. That should help keep you warm.

[Travis Willingham]

Put the hat on.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Flip the coat over. We'll see you soon, then.

[Matthew Mercer]

Good luck.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

You as well.

[Matthew Mercer]

Basketball work.

[Travis Willingham]

Great.

[Liam O'Brien]

Well, we learned a lot.

[Travis Willingham]

Got answers. Fruitful.

[Matthew Mercer]

Sorry, I keep hitting the mic.

[Travis Willingham]

Cool.

[Sam Riegel]

Should have left that alone.

[Matthew Mercer]

Ooh.

[Sam Riegel]

Learn that bunny.

[Travis Willingham]

Do we go now?

[Liam O'Brien]

Do you want to get any potions from Truvo or are we out of here?

[Travis Willingham]

Would we get any potions from Truvo.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Or is he gonna.

[Matthew Mercer]

Well, you go to Truvo's tent, and Truvo is. Is sitting alone, half asleep in the chair, still bundled. Looks like he was up late tending to wounds and everything. And as soon as you send me the tent.

[Laura Bailey]

Hey, there.

[Matthew Mercer]

Sorry. Dozing off a little. That's right. Y' all's heading out, right?

[Travis Willingham]

Apologies for waking you.

[Matthew Mercer]

No, no, of course it's fine. It's fine.

[Laura Bailey]

Sorry I didn't do better.

[Travis Willingham]

We all tried our best. We were acting within the parameters of the knowledge that we.

[Laura Bailey]

This is true. Y' all are heading off to where now?

[Travis Willingham]

The barren of blind repose.

[Laura Bailey]

Don't know where that is.

[Matthew Mercer]

Is it far? Yes, dear. Well.

[Travis Willingham]

We know that you're very strapped.

[Matthew Mercer]

I've spent most of my supplies, but.

[Laura Bailey]

I got a few things.

[Matthew Mercer]

Here. I do have some salves that can help and pulls out. You can write down. Recovery salve.

[Travis Willingham]

Recovery salve.

[Matthew Mercer]

You have two of them.

[Sam Riegel]

Two times two.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Dang.

[Matthew Mercer]

Dang. And more or less. What that means is when you spend a downtime action during a short rest to heal. Hit points or stress.

[Travis Willingham]

Yeah.

[Matthew Mercer]

You can add one to that and.

[Travis Willingham]

Then it's consumed and a short rest.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah, long rest heals full anyway, so it doesn't matter. But gives you a plus one. Heal to a stress or a hit point when you spend that downtime action.

[Travis Willingham]

Great.

[Matthew Mercer]

And you have two uses of those. And I got one more of these little friendly ones. Hopefully it'll help keep you keep it a little more lively on the path there.

[Travis Willingham]

Amazing.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah, it's long trips out there.

[Travis Willingham]

Healing potion. Does anyone want to hold on to it?

[Liam O'Brien]

I got one.

[Sam Riegel]

I got one.

[Travis Willingham]

You want to hold on to it?

[Matthew Mercer]

Hold on.

[Ashley Johnson]

Yeah.

[Travis Willingham]

We can always trade Z if.

[Ashley Johnson]

Yeah, we can trade Z A for.

[Matthew Mercer]

I wish I had more around here, but.

[Laura Bailey]

Well, I think we're going to need all we got.

[Matthew Mercer]

I ain't got much left.

[Ashley Johnson]

No, this is.

[Travis Willingham]

This is very generous. Thank you. Are you all right? I mean, I, I. You don't answer that.

[Matthew Mercer]

I'm fine.

[Laura Bailey]

It's not me I'm worried about.

[Travis Willingham]

Who is it that you're worried about? Anyone specific?

[Laura Bailey]

No, just the kid.

[Travis Willingham]

Do you have your suspicions?

[Sam Riegel]

What's their blood type?

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah, just the children.

[Travis Willingham]

Ah, yes. Children.

[Laura Bailey]

Anyway.

[Matthew Mercer]

Don't need to be throwing more weight upon them shoulders. Pyre keeper.

[Laura Bailey]

Y' all travel safe, all right?

[Travis Willingham]

Get your rest.

[Matthew Mercer]

Eventually I should probably take a walk and.

[Laura Bailey]

Tend to a few spirits.

[Matthew Mercer]

He gets up. His long straps and small hanging vials and trinkets jangling against his shell. Yeah, I think a walk will do me good.

[Travis Willingham]

Just be careful. This town needs a healer.

[Laura Bailey]

It needs seven, But I'm good at what I do.

[Travis Willingham]

We're gonna go ahead and take our leave. So tell anyone who cares we say goodbye.

[Matthew Mercer]

All right?

[Laura Bailey]

Drive. Will safe, y' all. I'll see you when you come back.

[Matthew Mercer]

Goes and puts his little overcoat over his shoulders and steps out into the misty day. You all begin to gather once more with what supplies you've acquired. Your thoughts gathered best you can and what's happened. A map at your disposal to track your journey. Anything else you need before you set off into the wastes?

[Liam O'Brien]

I'm going to go back to my tent real quick, just grab my supplies. I am going to grab. I have this big collar that I'm gonna grab. I'm just gonna hold it real close and just be like, I couldn't save you buddy. But I promise I won't let the same thing happen to them. And I'm gonna wear it as like a belt.

[Sam Riegel]

It's that big.

[Liam O'Brien]

Yeah.

[Ashley Johnson]

Do you have a big best friend?

[Travis Willingham]

Do you have a John Wick origin story? Did someone shoot your puppy, Daisy?

[Matthew Mercer]

Oh no. All right, Big Bracket Personal as you all gather towards the gates at the Slag wall westward on the outskirts of Desper lock, already about 50 or so of the populace have gathered to see you off. The majority of the western facing vigil have stepped to the edge of the wall. Gostook and his team have left hours before. So you are the other troop to exit in a solemn march. As you head towards the gates, the chains pulling taut, dragging them open, everyone looks up to you. Many eyes, many faces. The energy of hope. That hope sets upon you from this community. You must feel the weight of it, but it is also empowering, terrifying. You can't help but see these little orc children, small little four year old galop looking up with its little pointed beak mouth wide eyed elderly woman clutching her middle aged daughter at her side as they both look on, raising a hand to you all as you leave, placing that hope upon you. You are the enduring, but what allows you to endure is hope. And for right now, you are their hope. As you try your best to not take that lightly, you shoulder that responsibility, swallow hard and put one foot in front of the other until you're beyond that wall, the stone and slag behind you.

[Zoe Saldana]

This is your moment, your time to shine your comeback. You're ready for the next step in your career and you want an education employer's respect. So you're not just going back to school. You're coming back with Purdue Global. Backed by Purdue University, one of the nation's most respected, respected public universities, Purdue Global is built for people who bring their life experience into the online classroom. Purdue Global, Purdue's online university for working adults. Start your comeback today at purdueglobal.

[Matthew Mercer]

Edu.

[Unknown Speaker]

We all belong outside. We're drawn to nature. Whether it's the recorded sounds of the ocean we doze off to or the succulents that adorn our homes, nature makes all of our lives, well, better. Despite all this, we often go about our busy lives removed from it. But the outdoors is closer than we realize. With alltrails, you can discover trails nearby and explore confidently with offline maps and on trail navigation. Download the free app today.

[Matthew Mercer]

Do you know what time it is? It's time to go. Radio Rental. Radio Rental is a podcast with a collection of the scariest stories you've ever heard, all told by real people. That's right. These are true, scary stories straight from the mouths of those who experienced them. Ooh. Terrifying glitches in the matrix, horrifying humans, ghostly encounters, possible abductions, and all sorts of paranormal phenomena. Radio Rental is available now. Listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your stupid podcasts. The semblance of safety behind you.

[Laura Bailey]

And.

[Matthew Mercer]

So much mystery and danger ahead. Once again, one foot in front of the other, one foot in front of the other, and you push on into the jungles of Evidora. Westward, a familiar path to you and to some of you some time past. But pushing through these dense jungles is its own dangerous journey. Who is helming the navigation of this journey? Which leg of it? Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Ashley Johnson]

I think.

[Sam Riegel]

Can we take this to. I can take this to her.

[Liam O'Brien]

Have you been through here Once.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

What part?

[Sam Riegel]

Once backwards.

[Travis Willingham]

Might as well let him lead. Well, the terrain is at least somewhat familiar.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Ditto.

[Liam O'Brien]

I've been through here. I'll take us through the first leg. You can take the second.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Oh, boy.

[Liam O'Brien]

Just stay close. Anything happens.

[Sam Riegel]

Run like hell.

[Liam O'Brien]

Yeah, but just run slightly slower than me.

[Ashley Johnson]

I don't think that'll be a problem for me.

[Matthew Mercer]

All right, so you. I believe you have some features, some ranger features to help you in this.

[Liam O'Brien]

I have advantage on roles to traverse dangerous cliffs, ledges, navigate harsh environments, or use my survival knowledge. I don't know if that's a thing. I could also use path forward. When you're traveling to a place you you've previously visited, you can identify the shortest, most direct path to your destination.

[Matthew Mercer]

Okay. What is your first destination?

[Liam O'Brien]

Good question. We're over here. Yeah.

[Matthew Mercer]

A little further south. There you can see desperate lock.

[Liam O'Brien]

So Volkoru. Yes.

[Matthew Mercer]

Is where we're going, which you have been there. So indeed, you know the direct place, the fastest path, not always the safest, but certainly the fastest. And you're pretty good at keeping safe when you're traveling solo. Keeping four others behind is a new challenge. But nevertheless, for your navigation roll, because of that benefit, you do get advantage as part of that. So I would like you to roll with instinct to navigate the troop with advantage on this first leg of the journey.

[Liam O'Brien]

Easy enough, Easy enough. Terrible. No, it's actually pretty good. Okay, 15 with Hope. That's good.

[Matthew Mercer]

Keep with hope. Great. Take that hope. You push through the jungles themselves. The occasional rattling gurgle or distant call echoing in the distance. You keep quiet.

[Liam O'Brien]

That's not.

[Matthew Mercer]

Eventually you hear the clicking of birds.

[Liam O'Brien]

That's something.

[Matthew Mercer]

And with each sound you watch snicks, panic, seize and then lead you a little ways off. But in doing so.

[Sam Riegel]

A couple pellets full.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah, little Cocoa Puffs.

[Sam Riegel]

He's puffing.

[Matthew Mercer]

But your experience here allows you to arc and shift Wybirths around with the sources of these various sounds. At one point, you can hear the distant, heavy, thick footfalls and feel them almost to the ground as something massive is lurking through the jaw. Jesus.

[Liam O'Brien]

Every time. Every time.

[Matthew Mercer]

I love it so much.

[Sam Riegel]

Always in a comfy place.

[Travis Willingham]

Those are footfalls.

[Ashley Johnson]

Those are footfalls.

[Travis Willingham]

Okay.

[Matthew Mercer]

Quieter and quieter. A sound you haven't heard before.

[Liam O'Brien]

Nope.

[Matthew Mercer]

But something massive is lumbering through the jungle.

[Ashley Johnson]

Do you know what that was?

[Liam O'Brien]

Something massive lumbering through the jungle.

[Matthew Mercer]

You all stand still until eventually the false would get quieter and quieter. And whatever it was, it has passed beyond your path. As the day continues onward. Eventually the jungle begins to thin. And another sound catches your ears. I love it. I keep you panicked. This makes me happy. It's the distant sound of shores breaking. The ashen sea is not far from your path as the oceanside cliffs at the base of the Greefclef Mountains are not far from where you tread. The jungle trees still hold and tangle and envelop your path. And you cruise through them, cutting vines. They need to be cut. The sky begins to grow darker as you come to the end of your first day. That gentle smell of sea spray catching on the breeze and the wind as it blows through. The wind does pick up around here now that the mountain itself is not blocking and the jungle's absorbing. You can feel it blowing your hair. For those who have hair.

[Travis Willingham]

Your veil.

[Matthew Mercer]

And you can, ever so distant, hear the waves crashing against the cliff that drop into the ashen sea.

[Ashley Johnson]

What a pleasant sound.

[Travis Willingham]

It is nice. Never thought I would hear the ocean.

[Ashley Johnson]

It sounds so calm. August. What's wrong?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I've been trying to tell you. And I know you don't remember. We're going home tomorrow.

[Ashley Johnson]

What? What do you. I don't understand.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

The screaming forests. It's home. We're going. We have to be very careful. We have to be very, very careful. For the next day.

[Ashley Johnson]

We Will be very careful. And I will protect you.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

All of us. And you especially.

[Ashley Johnson]

I will be okay. And at the end of the day, if I'm not, then maybe I will be set free and I get to go home. Wherever that is.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I cannot think of a worse fate if we get caught. For any of us.

[Travis Willingham]

Who would catch you?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

There is, and I wish I could tell you where. But somewhere in the Screaming Forest, there is a temple. And in that temple is a catacomb of sticky sweet amber and creatures where they serve and worship the Queen Mother. And Queen Mother is very unhappy that we got away. Very, very unhappy that we got away. And she is hungry. And she likes to play with her.

[Matthew Mercer]

Food.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

For weeks, months sometimes.

[Matthew Mercer]

She gets creative.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

And I show the moth that is stitched into my back. She may decide you look like fun.

[Sam Riegel]

And this is. If we go through the Screaming Forest.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

If she finds us, she'll eat you slowly.

[Sam Riegel]

The Queen Mother. Do you happen to have a lot of siblings?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I was somewhat unique. But it's hard to tell if she likes to change people if she decides they're interesting. More interesting than food. She has her children too. And just. She'll take you and preserve you alive and chew and.

[Sam Riegel]

She sounds delightful. Let's not plan to stop by there.

[Ashley Johnson]

I don't want to see her.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

This is absolutely my way.

[Matthew Mercer]

Nightmare.

[Travis Willingham]

This temple which you speak of, is that where you first met Misty?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Yes.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yes.

[Travis Willingham]

And you have no recollection of this temple?

[Ashley Johnson]

I have visions of it as I came to in this. In this form. But I don't know, Ken. I have memories of the place, but I don't know they're not mine. But I know this statue somehow ended up there with another family. And they were traveling with this statue for some reason. And I guess stayed there for. I don't know how long. I don't know how long this was there. Maybe hundreds of years.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Mother would send me into the temple to treasure hunt a lot like we did. I would bring back trinkets and artifacts. Sometimes I would hide them. And one day I did very well and woke her up somehow. And she got me out. She got us both out.

[Ashley Johnson]

All I remember was being in darkness for a very, very long time. And I saw a golden light. And I went to it. And I woke up. Not quite what I would have requested had I had the chance choice. But you know what? We're going to go with it. Thank you.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Thank you.

[Matthew Mercer]

Just.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Thought everyone should be aware of one of many dangers.

[Travis Willingham]

It's appreciated.

[Liam O'Brien]

Hopefully we'll move quickly Enough that we won't be stopped.

[Matthew Mercer]

Or.

[Ashley Johnson]

Yeah, maybe we can just let go on the outskirts.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah, you know, possibly hide the two.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Of us as well as best as possible. I'm about as bundled up as I can be. I almost want to throw a cloak on you.

[Ashley Johnson]

That's fine.

[Liam O'Brien]

She's 8ft tall with huge wings. It would have to be like a tarp.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yes.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Sure, if we can find one, maybe.

[Liam O'Brien]

Maybe we can trade for one in Volcoru.

[Ashley Johnson]

That's a good idea.

[Matthew Mercer]

A light rain begins to come down from the cloudy skies above, and not too long past that the sound of rushing water having traversed this path previously. You know there is a bridge that goes across a rushing river that washes out from the mountains to the sea. However, the bridge has washed out since last you traveled and you wonder if it has something to do with what you now see as the massive footfalls that push into the mud along the path where you came from. Whatever those heavy steps were before seemed to enjoy taking a hop on this bridge to its destruction. You see the splintered wood out there? It's about 20 or so feet across this river. Shallower are the edges, but still a danger to pass. So for this we're going to traverse a raging river.

[Travis Willingham]

Oh no.

[Matthew Mercer]

For this.

[Travis Willingham]

Oh, I hate this.

[Matthew Mercer]

I'm gonna create a Progressive countdown of 4.

[Travis Willingham]

Oh great.

[Sam Riegel]

This is where you brought us. This is your extra.

[Liam O'Brien]

There was a bridge here last time.

[Sam Riegel]

Says you.

[Travis Willingham]

We're gonna get washed out to sea.

[Ashley Johnson]

I don't know if I can swim.

[Liam O'Brien]

Maybe you can do that thing we were talking about. You can walk underwater to the other side.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

We haven't really experimented with. We haven't experimented with.

[Ashley Johnson]

We'll give it a try, I guess.

[Liam O'Brien]

Wait, I have some rope.

[Travis Willingham]

Should we bind ourselves to each other?

[Ashley Johnson]

Yes, yes.

[Liam O'Brien]

At least you guys should. I'm gonna be fine.

[Ashley Johnson]

Okay. All right, Go away.

[Liam O'Brien]

No, I'll join you two just in case.

[Travis Willingham]

All right, now what?

[Ashley Johnson]

Bind ourselves together.

[Matthew Mercer]

All right. You tie ourselves together. Hopefully that's two relatively thin individuals, two thicker ones and an eight foot statue. Let's do this.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

It's safe.

[Sam Riegel]

Bobbing along, mistakes were made.

[Matthew Mercer]

The idea is, little did they know, for this one we need to have four successful rolls.

[Liam O'Brien]

But there's only five of us.

[Matthew Mercer]

Correct. If you get four successful rolls, then you all move across. Cross. Okay, how do you apply to this? One of you said you're tying the ropes around. Who is tying the knots here? Oh man.

[Sam Riegel]

Tying the knots? Yeah, I can tie knots.

[Liam O'Brien]

Okay. Yeah, have a good, good Luck.

[Matthew Mercer]

You going to do it?

[Sam Riegel]

Yeah.

[Matthew Mercer]

Roll finesse for me, please.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Big bows.

[Matthew Mercer]

Three.

[Liam O'Brien]

Huh?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Great.

[Ashley Johnson]

Just that taut.

[Matthew Mercer]

You look good. Yeah, just.

[Liam O'Brien]

Just that. That.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Just skip me.

[Matthew Mercer]

Last three games you skipped, I thought, like, just.

[Travis Willingham]

All right.

[Matthew Mercer]

Go.

[Liam O'Brien]

Being the lowest possible roll. Yes. Without getting a crit.

[Ashley Johnson]

Two would be the lowest.

[Liam O'Brien]

That would be a crit.

[Sam Riegel]

That would be a crit.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah.

[Ashley Johnson]

You are correct.

[Matthew Mercer]

Wow.

[Sam Riegel]

To start off this treacherous SO idol.

[Matthew Mercer]

You tie the rope around your troop. Strong, sturdy knots. Confident in your ability. What is the order to traverse this water? And who is tempting to swim across or leap across the nexus first?

[Liam O'Brien]

I feel like she should go first because she's heavy.

[Ashley Johnson]

I will go first.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah, okay.

[Ashley Johnson]

Sure, I will.

[Matthew Mercer]

All right.

[Travis Willingham]

Because if it goes bad with you, then that's going to dictate everything else.

[Ashley Johnson]

Yes, it will.

[Matthew Mercer]

You get about 3, 4ft and the water is picking up. The rain is, you know, causing the river to swell a little bit. And as you get about five feet in, you feel your feet beginning to dislodge from the under muck. As the undertow begins to pull for you, I need you to make an agility reaction. Roll for me, please. Okay, here we go.

[Ashley Johnson]

Wait. An agility reaction.

[Matthew Mercer]

Correct. So just make an agility roll. But you don't gain hope. It doesn't give me fear.

[Sam Riegel]

No mods, no mods, no mods.

[Travis Willingham]

It's gonna be fine.

[Ashley Johnson]

You got this.

[Travis Willingham]

It's fine. Is it fine?

[Ashley Johnson]

10 with your hope. It doesn't matter. It doesn't matter. 10.

[Matthew Mercer]

10 is what you needed on this. So I'm going to consider that a success here.

[Sam Riegel]

Strong start.

[Matthew Mercer]

Strong start. As you begin to wade across and push against it, you do mark a stress through the process, though. Pushes your mind a bit and your body to its limit to get through the water. You're partway across the river now. The rest of you now being dragged in behind her. And the water as it's rushing past, you're starting to get pushed down the stream a little bit. Who is helping move this trek forward?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I'm at the end.

[Travis Willingham]

I'll go.

[Matthew Mercer]

All right. Brixton.

[Liam O'Brien]

Using strength.

[Travis Willingham]

Same thing or what do I.

[Matthew Mercer]

What are you trying to do to help push across here?

[Travis Willingham]

Well, are you. So you got across?

[Ashley Johnson]

I'm halfway there.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah.

[Ashley Johnson]

But I'm still out of the water.

[Matthew Mercer]

You're about up to here.

[Ashley Johnson]

Okay, but I'm still touching bottom.

[Matthew Mercer]

Barely.

[Sam Riegel]

You're strong. Swallowed. I'm strong.

[Matthew Mercer]

She made a step.

[Travis Willingham]

Yeah, I am strong. I'll use the rope. Use the guideline. And I'M just going to see if I can just maybe even switch swim pass so I can help give it a shot. Misty on the other side.

[Matthew Mercer]

Make a strength action roll for me, please.

[Travis Willingham]

All right. Plus two. That's really good. That's going to be 23 with Hope. That doesn't matter. Or does that matter?

[Matthew Mercer]

No. This is your action roll. So it does. You gain hope 23. That's going to count down the countdown as well. You now have two left to get the troop across. I'm going to spend a fear immediately as you get across the way. Who's third in line? Sure. Third in line. The undertow catches you immediately as Brixton pulls ahead and pushes past Misty. The rope drags you into the center of the water and all of a sudden you feel your feet tug underneath. It feels like some sort of sunken log or something that has lost its buoyancy and is being dragged under the water. Part of a tether or a vine on it wraps around your leg and starts dragging you into the water below. I need you to make an agility reaction roll for me.

[Liam O'Brien]

Agility reaction. Let's go.

[Matthew Mercer]

Snicks.

[Travis Willingham]

You're agile.

[Matthew Mercer]

You're not agile.

[Liam O'Brien]

I sure am, young man. I sure am fucking super agile. That's at 25.

[Matthew Mercer]

Wow. With fear reaction Also doesn't matter. You pull your foot free without challenge. There you are not dragged down the river and dragging some of your friends with you. But you do mark a stress to the ordeal.

[Travis Willingham]

You're all right.

[Liam O'Brien]

They almost got me. But I don't have feet so it just slipped.

[Sam Riegel]

I think those knots are so sturdy.

[Liam O'Brien]

I'm just holding like. What'd you do?

[Matthew Mercer]

What'd you do? What is this?

[Travis Willingham]

How do you have both ends?

[Matthew Mercer]

I don't know. I don't wanna tie.

[Sam Riegel]

I made circles.

[Matthew Mercer]

I'm gonna spend a fear immediately to use an undertow action on you because you had rolled so poorly with the tying earlier. And as part of that the rope becomes free. And all of a sudden you realize everyone else is tied together. But you forgot to tie yourself to it.

[Liam O'Brien]

Smyx, this was your rope.

[Matthew Mercer]

I need you to make an adjoining.

[Sam Riegel]

I'm not worried about it. I should have been six.

[Matthew Mercer]

Six. You all watch as idle. The rope is loose in the water and idle beneath the water before appearing about 20, 30ft down the river. Halberds are at trying to tread water. What are the rest of you doing?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I'm going to cast a ice spike to see if I can give him something to grab onto. I'm going to try and pull one up in the water as he's going downstream right in front of him so that he has something to grab.

[Matthew Mercer]

So you're going to fire an ice spike in the water that he can grab onto?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Yeah, I can actually pull it up.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

It's not like me firing it down. It actually can make it grow out of the bottom.

[Matthew Mercer]

Okay.

[Ashley Johnson]

Would we be able to get together on something?

[Matthew Mercer]

If you want to help him with something by spending a hope to give him a summon.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

A D6.

[Matthew Mercer]

Yeah.

[Ashley Johnson]

Yes, I'll spend to hope and. Well, I guess I can't use this.

[Matthew Mercer]

You can also do a separate action if you want to outside of this. And you can guys consider them coming together.

[Ashley Johnson]

But I will spend a hope to help you.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Oh, thank you.

[Ashley Johnson]

To.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Oh, you roll that.

[Liam O'Brien]

Guidance.

[Ashley Johnson]

Yeah, guidance.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Oh, my God. It's a crit.

[Matthew Mercer]

Okay.

[Liam O'Brien]

Double ones.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Double ones. Where I'm like, oh, wait a minute.

[Matthew Mercer]

We just talked about this.

[Ashley Johnson]

You don't even need the hole.

[Matthew Mercer]

No, I don't. You spent it.

[Ashley Johnson]

I spent it, yeah.

[Matthew Mercer]

But yeah, I'll say. Given the circumstance. You conjure the ice spike as opposed to down into the river. You conjure it below. As you're treading, you suddenly see this burst of light blue light in the water below as you glance down. Suddenly you watch this massive icicle start shooting out of the water and you just tears, shouting across the way.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Grab on.

[Matthew Mercer]

You clutch onto it as hard as you can. Make a strength reaction. Roll for me, please. Come on.

[Sam Riegel]

Where were all those crits before? Better. 13, 14, 15.

[Matthew Mercer]

15. Easy enough. You clutch on it. This counts down to A1 from your success though. And you are pulled out of the water and left lifted over in the direction of the edge of the river. You smack into the last three or four feet of water, splash and end over end and stopping, covered in muck and the side of the river slop. But you are now safe, Brixton. You are just beyond the side. You haven't crossed yet. You're still in the middle of the water with Misty. We have one more roll to complete this turn.

[Sam Riegel]

I've never tied a knot before.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I'm going to try and fly full speed across this. I know it's raining and I know that sucks, but I'm just going to see if I can avoid as much of this as possible.

[Matthew Mercer]

The rain isn't so hard that it's been. You fly across fine. Oh. However, Misty and Snix are still in the water. And as heavy as Misty is, as you get to that center point. And Brixton pushes past you. Your feet are getting stuck in the undermuck as your chin's right above there and you're pulling the rope up and getting close to Misty and clutching on as the water's now rushing past. And the two of you in the moment feel like you're a little stranded in the middle of the rushing river. Who's doing what?

[Liam O'Brien]

Do you have a thing?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

We need a pull.

[Ashley Johnson]

Well, I was going to try to help. Oh, idle.

[Sam Riegel]

I'm out.

[Matthew Mercer]

Safe.

[Travis Willingham]

Idol's out.

[Ashley Johnson]

You're safe. Okay.

[Matthew Mercer]

You say that and look over and Idol's on the bank on the opposite side.

[Ashley Johnson]

But you're still on the other side. You still have to get over here.

[Matthew Mercer]

I'm okay.

[Liam O'Brien]

Go for it.

[Travis Willingham]

I was going to help pull where the two of us are going to pull. Unless you had a better idea.

[Liam O'Brien]

No, no, no. Do it.

[Travis Willingham]

All right.

[Matthew Mercer]

Maybe strength action.

[Travis Willingham]

So cuz we've got the. I'm spending a hope you're going to help me. All right. I'm going to help yank the both of them.

[Liam O'Brien]

Now's a good time, miss.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Oh.

[Liam O'Brien]

To see if you can breathe underwater.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I get stress also.

[Ashley Johnson]

I'll go underwater and.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Oh, I got to.

[Travis Willingham]

You're going to hope to help me?

[Matthew Mercer]

Yep.

[Travis Willingham]

Help.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Yep.

[Matthew Mercer]

On your vessel ancestry clank from the base core game, what abilities do you have on that?

[Ashley Johnson]

Well.

[Matthew Mercer]

Do any of them involve breathing?

[Ashley Johnson]

No.

[Matthew Mercer]

As you begin to hold your breath, you feel a growing burning pain in your chest. And you realize this vessel as you hold within it, while it is not made of standard flesh, the hollow points of your body that mark your instrument as the holy vessel where your music stems from. The essence that anchors you here needs the air to pass through it for you to remain anchored. And as they clog with water, it's not about breathing More than you feel your mooring on this physical stone form begin to loosen the longer you're underwater. No.

[Sam Riegel]

No.

[Travis Willingham]

18 strength.

[Ashley Johnson]

I don't like it.

[Matthew Mercer]

18 strength. Two. That finishes the countdown. And with your final pulls, you get the rest of your troop across and drag Misty and snakes from the river off to the opposite side. Cold.

[Travis Willingham]

It is Very.

[Matthew Mercer]

I'll hold me.

[Travis Willingham]

I'll hold you. Come here.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Come here. Come here. Right between. Right between.

[Liam O'Brien]

Come here.

[Travis Willingham]

You did good. Get your. Good job.

[Matthew Mercer]

I'm furry. This is good.

[Liam O'Brien]

I know, but you're a spider.

[Sam Riegel]

Tie a knot around it. Keep it tight. Really don't seem to know an answer.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Thank God you're not a sailor or anything. That'd Be really embarrassing.

[Matthew Mercer]

As the rain continues on. Cold and damp.

[Ashley Johnson]

Strong.

[Travis Willingham]

I know.

[Liam O'Brien]

Muscles are so big.

[Ashley Johnson]

And I know.

[Travis Willingham]

I know.

[Sam Riegel]

Nestled between the deltoid and the Latissimus dorsifia.

[Travis Willingham]

Nearly two decades of lifting heavy logs.

[Liam O'Brien]

Your hands are so calloused.

[Travis Willingham]

Yeah.

[Matthew Mercer]

I can't. I like it.

[Travis Willingham]

Okay. Okay.

[Matthew Mercer]

Help. Step on me. Keeper. The light of day begins to fade as you begin to reach the end of the perimeter of the jungle. And ahead as you begin to move along the pathway that carves along the cliff face. The base of the mountain. The sheer seaside cliffs are are now right over the edge. And you can see the waters of the ashen sea rolling, crashing. The tide is high and dangerous below. And you can see all manner of jagged rocks that protrude at the base of the cliff. Ahead you can just begin to see the beginning of the sunken rampart.

[Travis Willingham]

Okay.

[Matthew Mercer]

What was once the most perimeter wall of the extent of Amber reaches sprawl. An entire region that now mostly lies underwater as the ashen seas came in to flood the valley. And the perimeter wall partially crumbled in places, is now a stretching rampart. Jagged, broken, bridged in places. A challenge in others. But a path to take. As safe as possible compared to other alternatives. But the light begins to fade and night begins to creep in. Do you want to press on or make camp?

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Let's be wise and sleep.

[Liam O'Brien]

Be wise and sleep. Be wise to get to Vokorum.

[Matthew Mercer]

Oh, we're down.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Okay. We're not there yet. That's right.

[Ashley Johnson]

Idol. What do you think?

[Sam Riegel]

I think we should push on.

[Ashley Johnson]

I agree.

[Travis Willingham]

Do we need at least a short rest or are we good to keep moving?

[Liam O'Brien]

Okay.

[Matthew Mercer]

Keep going.

[Laura Bailey]

Okay.

[Travis Willingham]

As well.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Yeah. I can.

[Ashley Johnson]

I can hold you. August. If you would like to rest a bit.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

Oh, I'll be all right.

[Ashley Johnson]

Okay.

[Laura Bailey]

Okay.

[Taliesin Jaffe]

I can conjure a bit of light.

[Matthew Mercer]

Okay. You go ahead and sparkle. A little bit of light. Going to give it just enough glow to give you a little bit to see by. Possibly other things to see you by. But for something for you to see by. I got dark. The mud and slick path ahead gives each footstep a heavy. As it is just dirt and mud at this point. The occasional broken pieces of rock and shale that have broken free and slid down the steep decline of the mountains down to this pace. You do see some sections where mild slides have come through and then been cleared and then come through again. The slow erosion of the mountains mimicking the slow death of the domain. You can no longer see the ramparts here in the darkness of night until you are close enough to just barely have your light frame it. But you do see in the far distance the little spark of flame that you know to be Mucoru's sacred pyre. And with enough of a glance, you can see the distant speck, like a burning star on the horizon of another pyre impossibly far away.

[Laura Bailey]

Could be okros. Could be.

[Matthew Mercer]

Be something else. As you come around the mountain range, you have a view of the valley from the southern side that begins to open up, which lets you know that you're pretty close to where the ramparts begin, in which case you are just traversing the top of these walls with crashing ocean below. And then the mud gives way to hard stone and you've begun your trek of the sunken ramparts. A breath, a second breath, a glance at each other. You continue to move forward. The sound of crashing waves below, darkness ahead, hope keeping you afloat, and anxiety ever curling at the horizon of your vision. That's where we'll pick up next episode.

[Travis Willingham]

We're almost there. Almost there.

[Sam Riegel]

We're now stone underfoot at the sunken rampart.

[Matthew Mercer]

Correct. You have more or less started walking on the sunken rampart on the edge there? Yes. Okay. And are traversing that wall.

[Ashley Johnson]

Okay, wait, we're like, around here?

[Matthew Mercer]

You're just beginning the trek on the sunken race.

[Sam Riegel]

Okay.

[Travis Willingham]

Okay.

[Matthew Mercer]

And we'll start there and we pick up next episode.

[Liam O'Brien]

Oh, my God, what a long journey we have to go on.

[Travis Willingham]

Such a long journey.

[Matthew Mercer]

Oh, it's a journey.

[Sam Riegel]

Vivid.

[Matthew Mercer]

I know.

[Sam Riegel]

So good.

[Matthew Mercer]

Well, friends, we'll see you next episode. Love you very much. And is it Thursday? And we finished up this episode. Thanks for coming along on this wild journey with us. If you like the adventure, consider leaving a review on your podcast platform of choice. We're always looking for new critters to share our stories with, and your review may help a new batch of wayward adventurers discover the show. See you next time.