Season 4 | Ep. 9 | Grasping Shadows

Summary

Dark Dice: Season 3, Episode 9 – "Chasing Shadows"

Release Date: May 14, 2024

Hosts: Fool and Scholar Productions
Description: The horror actual play podcast where each season, travelers embark on a journey into the dark corners of a fantasy world filled with dragons and monsters, forever changing them.

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Introduction

In "Chasing Shadows," the crew of the Willow's Wake grapples with internal strife and dark magic as they navigate the aftermath of the disrupted Ritual of Last Light. Tensions reach a boiling point when accusations of betrayal and murder threaten to tear the group apart.

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Recalling the Past

Vind Greyview (played by Eric Nelson) begins the episode by retelling his harrowing survival story within the caves of the Sunken Bulwark, detailing Ajay Ogun's (J. Jasper William Cartwright) betrayal and the tragic murder of Nimble (Chris Lers). This recounting sets the stage for the current distrust among the crew.

Vind Greyview [06:49]: "The crew and I have decided what we're going to do, Mr. Greyview. For your safety and that of the rest of our guests and crew, we're going to do a quick sweep of the ship and make sure Ajay is not present."

The Accusation and Sweep

Under Vind's leadership, the crew initiates a sweep of the Willow's Wake to locate and question Ajay Ogun, suspected of murdering Nimble. The decision is met with apprehension, especially from Chris Lers, who values his ceremonial weapons.

Chris Lers [07:22]: "I don't feel comfortable without my javelins or spear. It's a ceremonial relic that represents my position as a leader."

To safeguard the process, Enrique Perez (Enrique Perez) volunteers to act as a bodyguard, ensuring that the sweep proceeds without further conflict.

Confrontation with Ajay Ogun

Ajay's presence aboard the ship quickly becomes palpable when Yara (Florian Zeitler) and Av (first mate Av Mitov) encounter him in the hold. Their attempt to approach him is met with hostility, escalating the situation.

Ajay Ogun [13:15]: "I think this poisonous rat is in fact here and spreading lies."

As emotions flare, Viviana Bloodchamber (Lily Pichu) steps in to mediate, advocating for a peaceful resolution.

Viviana Bloodchamber [12:38]: "Why do you sound so sad? It's not true, right? What they say that you murdered Nimble because there's no way you would do that."

Despite attempts at dialogue, Ajay transforms into a shadowy entity, unleashing dark magic that injures Vind Greyview and ignites fear among the crew.

Ajay Ogun [19:53]: "I have seen my friend's death. The killer is not me."

Battle and Subjugation

The confrontation culminates in a fierce battle where Ajay's dark powers clash with the crew's resolve. Cedric Lurs (Galusk) manages to land a decisive blow that incapacitates Ajay, allowing Galusk (another crew member) to subdue him completely.

Galusk [26:59]: "Ajay succumbed to the call of sleep, returning to his natural form and letting go of his rage. For now."

The Cursed Idol

Post-battle investigations reveal a mysterious bone-carved idol in Ajay's possession, hinting at a deeper, malevolent influence affecting his actions. The crew discusses the idol's origins and its potential ties to dark spirits, raising concerns about its power.

Ka Statz [28:34]: "Rolling poorly. I've never seen anything like it. And it's really quite terrible to look at some kind of bone carved into the shape of a hideous creature."

Building Alliances and Trust Issues

As the crew secures Ajay, bonds are tested and new alliances form. Vin (Vind Greyview) approaches Viviana, seeking trust and cooperation amidst the chaos.

Vin [42:00]: "It sounds like someone is calling me a killer. Yara, do not lie to me."

Despite initial mistrust, Vin's wounds and earnest demeanor coax Viviana into offering her support.

Viviana Bloodchamber [43:07]: "I don't trust him. But he is handsome. And the wound actually kind of adds to his attractiveness. He's got that rugged, oh, look, I'm so injured sort of look going on. So Viviana's kind of like, okay, Vin, alright, I'll have your back."

Captain's Dilemma

Meanwhile, Captain Gelmane (David M. Berdeville) confronts Convo (Enrique Perez) about the escalating tensions and the crew's behavior. The captain reflects on his failed strategies and the dire consequences of trusting Viviana and Lan's actions.

Captain Gelmane [62:55]: "If anyone could have kept them in line, I figured it would have been you, Convo."

Convo, feeling the weight of his responsibilities, assures the captain of his efforts to maintain order despite the mounting challenges.

Convo [65:34]: "Permission to speak freely, Captain? I'm a little pissed off, sir."

Aftermath and Reflection

As the ship steams towards Winterport, the crew grapples with loss, betrayal, and the lingering influence of dark magic. Fluffy, the owlbear, becomes a focal point for emotional support among the survivors.

Viviana Bloodchamber [37:53]: "I think I'm very, like, shook because although I come from an assassin family, that was like, ordered, you know, that was all premeditated, but this was, like, unexpected."

Key Discussions and Insights

• Trust and Betrayal: The episode delves deep into the themes of trust, as characters struggle to discern friend from foe amidst deceit and dark influences.

• Power of Dark Magic: Ajay's transformation underscores the pervasive threat of dark magic, suggesting that the true enemy may lie within the very souls of the crew.

• Survival and Leadership: Captain Gelmane's introspection highlights the burdens of leadership in dire circumstances, questioning past decisions and their ramifications.

Notable Quotes

• Viviana Bloodchamber [12:38]: "Why do you sound so sad? It's not true, right?"

• Ajay Ogun [19:53]: "I have seen my friend's death. The killer is not me."

• Ka Statz [28:34]: "I've never seen anything like it. And it's really quite terrible to look at some kind of bone carved into the shape of a hideous creature."

• Captain Gelmane [62:55]: "If anyone could have kept them in line, I figured it would have been you, Convo."

Conclusions

"Chasing Shadows" serves as a pivotal episode in Dark Dice's third season, intensifying conflicts and revealing the complex dynamics aboard the Willow's Wake. As the crew faces internal demons and external threats, the episode sets the stage for future confrontations and the continuing quest for survival in a world where darkness lurks both outside and within.

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Cast of Characters:

• Viviana Bloodchamber: Lily Pichu
• Vind Greyview: Eric Nelson
• Ajay Ogun: J. Jasper William Cartwright
• Convo: Enrique Perez
• Captain Gelmane: David M. Berdeville
• Yara: Florian Zeitler
• Lurs: Galusk
• Av: Sam Yao
• Others: Sophie Yang as Lan, Uda, Seelie, and additional crew members.

Production Credits:

• Produced and Edited with Sound Design: Travis Vengrof
• Dialogue Editing Assistance: Kayla Shue
• Mixing and Mastering: Marissa Ewing
• Transcriptions: Chian Francois
• Executive Producers: Dennis Greenhill, Carol Van Groff, AJ Punkin, Michael Villegas
• Music by: David Wise, Stephen Millin, Brandon Boone, Travis Van Grauf

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For more episodes, bonus content, and to support the production, visit patreon.com/FoolAndScholar.

Transcript

[Travis Vengrof]

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[Lily Pichu]

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[Travis Vengrof]

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[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

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[Florian Zeitler]

And start earning rewards offer valid for.

[Travis Vengrof]

New app users only. Free medium drink reward upon registration.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

14 day expiration terms apply.

[Travis Vengrof]

See DutchBros.com hey, folks.

[KA Statz]

We're the hosts of comic sans, the podcast about comics for those who are sans knowledge. Comic sans is a show for people who are new to comics like me, or people who love them like me. You can listen to our brand new third season or binge the first two right now, wherever you get your podcasts. I think I just saw that. Ha. There.

[Enrique Perez]

Looking for something?

[KA Statz]

Uh. Oh, hey, Convo. Oh, no, no. I found it.

[Enrique Perez]

Found what?

[KA Statz]

Well, I'm playing a mobile game.

[Enrique Perez]

Mobile game?

[KA Statz]

Well, seeing as how we're on a ship and we are mobile, I mean, you're not wrong. Well, because we're always sailing and we only have the one book.

[Enrique Perez]

Most of us can't read anyway.

[KA Statz]

That's okay. I'll show you how to play if you want. Look here. This magic slate has a game charm on it. I got it from another sailor back in Ammo Grad. So I'm helping solve a mystery.

[Enrique Perez]

I mean, the magic's neat, but that's a lot of words.

[KA Statz]

That's because it has a great story. I think you'd enjoy it. You enjoy art, and you have a good eye for things that are out of place. So I think. I think you'd be great at this.

[Enrique Perez]

I do like the art, actually.

[David M. Berdeville]

Hmm.

[Enrique Perez]

So we help solve a mystery.

[KA Statz]

Yeah, we take on the role of June Parker, and we search for hidden objects to help uncover the mystery of her sister's murder.

[Enrique Perez]

Her sister was murdered?

[Kiera Baxendale]

We have to help.

[KA Statz]

I know. So we need to find hidden clues to discover the truth, all while building up June's home and learning more about her and the other characters.

[Enrique Perez]

Home? She has a ship?

[KA Statz]

No, no, no. She's a land dweller. She has a big estate with a mansion and gardens and more.

[Enrique Perez]

Oh, she's a noble.

[KA Statz]

No, no, we are the noble. We make the choices.

[Enrique Perez]

Oh, and someone killed our sister.

[KA Statz]

Exactly.

[Enrique Perez]

Okay, how do I play June's journey?

[KA Statz]

Here, I'll show you. And once we're back in port, we'll get you a slate of your own.

[Enrique Perez]

What's that part say there?

[KA Statz]

Oh, that's part of the magic incantation to get the game onto the slate. Discover your inner detective when you download June's Journey for free today, available on iOS and Android. I'm not a wizard, so maybe I didn't say it right.

[Enrique Perez]

I'll hold you to helping me get a slate later. Now come on, we're supposed to be working.

[KA Statz]

Yeah. Yes, good point.

[Marisha Tapara]

Greetings adventurers. Thank you for allowing us a much needed break to catch up and recharge while we lost 100 patrons within hours of announcing our break. We're extremely grateful for those of you who have continued to support our creative career of keeping you all entertained in a sustainable and mentally healthy manner. Knowing that so many of you continue to support us and the creation of these stories by extension, really allowed us to mentally relax long enough to catch up on the missing hours of sleep and prepare for this very exciting season of Dark Dice and take a few much needed sick days. We really need to address them as we get into this upcoming episode in particular because I can already imagine the confused comments on Reddit and Discord. So to restate, Dark Dice is an improvised horror story where we actually play Dungeons and Dragons and roll dice to figure out what's going to happen. No characters have plot armor and some of them have lethally conflicting motivations. Save so when you hear a scene that a character wasn't present for, the player also wasn't present for that scene and has no knowledge of what took place. And in fact, many of them were really confused when Danilo and Jasper, who play Nimble and Ajay respectively, weren't present for the Ritual of Last Light. So if it's confusing why certain characters might not see things the same way you do remember that you have out of character knowledge. In fact, our cast are hearing the entire story play out for the first time as these episodes release and have expressed varying levels of WTF and I had no idea and oh, I feel like a terrible person now that makes so much more sense. So with all that out of the way, let's get started.

[David M. Berdeville]

Do you seek Him?

[Travis Vengrof]

Do you seek Him?

[Florian Zeitler]

Do you seek Him?

[Marisha Tapara]

Do you seek Him?

[Florian Zeitler]

Do you seek Him?

[KA Statz]

Do you seek the Nameless God?

[Marisha Tapara]

You have found yourself among those who roll the Dark Dice. What you are about to hear happened long ago, a story brought back from the edge of Oblivion, dutifully transcribed and enhanced orally to better captivate your attention. Previously, the crew and guests of the Willow's Wake fled the Sunken Bulwark after the ritual of Last Light was violently disrupted. Now safe from the Sunken, faithful, their attentions turned to dangers walking among them. Dark Dice Shores of the silver thrum. Chapter 9 Grasping Shadows Having escaped to the open waters and from the immediate retribution of the sunken faith, tensions lowered. The crew confirmed that they were not being followed. And at the request of the captain, Vind retold the story of his survival within the caves, of Ajay's betrayal, and of Nimble's murder. For runtime, we'll cut to the end of Vind's retelling, which was just as emotional and dramatic as it was the first time. Just past the mates and captain determining how to prove someone's guilt without more than bruises for evidence.

[David M. Berdeville]

The crew and I have decided what we're going to do, Mr. Greyview. For your safety and that of the rest of our guests and crew, we're going to do a quick sweep of the ship and make sure Ajay is not present. We find him, we'll question him and confirm his side of the story. Because this is my ship and I don't want to have any potential for bloodshed or accident. Would you mind giving Mr. Lurz your spear and javelins in the meantime?

[Chris Lers]

Um, I. I don't feel comfortable without my javelins or spear. It's a ceremonial relic that represents my position as a leader. If I were willing to hand them over, can I be assured?

[David M. Berdeville]

Security convo can act as bodyguard until the sweep of the willow is complete.

[Enrique Perez]

Can do, sir. You okay with this, Mr. Graveyard?

[Chris Lers]

Yeah. Yeah. Thank you. Here are my weapons, Lurs.

[Enrique Perez]

Then consider me your shield.

[David M. Berdeville]

I don't feel comfortable trying someone on my ship. So if the truth of the matter is unclear, we'll simply confine you both in separate quarters until we can reach a court in Winterport that can settle the matter. However, if there is enough evidence to prove Ajay's guilt, or if he is unwilling to relieve his weapons, he will be imprisoned for the duration of the journey. Do you understand?

[Chris Lers]

That's agreeable. Thank you. I just want justice to be served at this point. Ajay is a spellcaster, and a tricky one at that. So please be careful in your search.

[David M. Berdeville]

Good. Okay, everyone except convo, search the willow top to bottom for Mr. Ajay Ogun, who stands accused of murder. He is to be disarmed and detained for questioning, and is supposedly in possession of Mr. Trout's spine. Trout's dagger. So be on your guard.

[KA Statz]

Not gonna be easy to miss if he's here.

[Marisha Tapara]

I call the guest quarters.

[Lily Pichu]

Oh.

[Marisha Tapara]

There'S an owl bear in front of them.

[KA Statz]

All yours, galus.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

So Yara, join me on the search. I'm checking the mess, then the hold. I think. I think this is a situation where we all need to have backup.

[KA Statz]

Absolutely. What could go wrong?

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Thanks. Buddy system. A greatest idea during spooky times.

[KA Statz]

Ah yes, the buddy system.

[Travis Vengrof]

Yara and Av nervously descended the creaking stairwell of the Willow's Wake into the familiar gloom of the mess below. Their eyes scanned the room, landing upon Lan, who still had not stirred. After exchanging a worried glance, they began to search, cleaning as they went, fastening hammocks and securing their occupants belongings. And until a movement enveloped by the shadows behind the open door to the hold. Shadows that Yara noted seemed darker than natural darkness should provide. The form of Aje Ogun, hunched and waiting quietly, breathing in unblinking intensity. The warlock's eyes transfixed on the stairs. It was unclear to Av and Yata if Ajay had even registered that they were present at all.

[Lily Pichu]

Fuck.

[Travis Vengrof]

That's Yari.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Go and talk to him. You're a bit more on his level.

[KA Statz]

Yes, yes.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Looks a bit intense. Was this.

[KA Statz]

Yach is very slowly and very carefully going to step towards him, seeing if there's any reaction that he doesn't want. Rj, is. Is that you? Of course it's him.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Who else would it be? We don't have rats the size of.

[KA Statz]

Mountains on this ship, so. We do have rats on this boat.

[Florian Zeitler]

Oh, don't start with me now.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Could you please step out of the way of the door so I can see the entrance?

[KA Statz]

Yahir obliges. He's stepping kind of to the side, making sure that the. The stairs are visible at all times. Um, aj, the whole ship is looking for you.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I know. I can hear.

[KA Statz]

Okay, then you. You must also know that there are stories being told of certain events that unfolded on the. The sunken bulwark.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I have no interest in these stories. I only have interest in the truth.

[KA Statz]

And just for the sake of this conversation, because I hope that this is what it is at the moment, would you mind sharing that truth with. With us?

[Kiera Baxendale]

I think for the first time. Ajay removes his eyes from the stairwell and looks at you, Yara, like deep in the eyes, and says that there is a murderer on this ship and it is not me. And then just goes back to looking.

[Marisha Tapara]

At the stairwell, the stairs which OV had fled up to seek the assistance of Viviana.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Lady Viv. Lady Viviana.

[KA Statz]

Could I.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Could I borrow your intimidating presence real quick, please?

[Lily Pichu]

Okay.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Yara and I found Ajay and. And I need your help. Potentially Detaining him. I've seen you stab a shark to death, so I think yours is just the help we need.

[Lily Pichu]

Okay, okay.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

We need Ajay to let us turn out his pockets and he has to give us his weapons. I mean, Yara and I are gonna ask him nicely, but you have more of an equal relationship with him, so maybe do Weiss soon. I don't think he likes me very much.

[Lily Pichu]

I whisper to ov. Okay, so let me get this straight. Someone murdered Nimble?

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Yeah.

[Lily Pichu]

And we think it was him and we're Ajay. Ajay murdered Nimble.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

That's what we think. Yeah, Ving told us about it while you were. Alright. Anyway, if he's got a knife on him or something Mr. Nimble had, I mean, it means he's the murderer, I think.

[Lily Pichu]

Holy shit. Okay, yeah, okay, yeah. Oof. Okay, yeah, I'm pretty charismatic. Let's do this.

[Travis Vengrof]

Viviana and Av returned to a nervous Yara, who was still very much alive, but who had failed to apprehend Aje.

[Lily Pichu]

Okay, you, Ajay, could you please step.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Out of the way of the door?

[Lily Pichu]

You have a knife in your hand. Do you mind putting that thing down? I'm not, I'm not winging this.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I do not care to put anything down.

[Lily Pichu]

Why do you sound so sad? It's not true, right? What they say that you murdered Nimble because there's no way you would do that, right?

[Kiera Baxendale]

I think hearing this, Ajay, who, who has been sat down, I think stands, looks at the trio around him and says, would anyone like to stop me before I make my next move?

[Lily Pichu]

Whoa, whoa, whoa. I'm not saying we're accusing you. I'm just saying we can definitely talk this out, right? Right, guys?

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Yeah, yeah, we can, we can talk this out.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I am not in the mood for talking.

[KA Statz]

Okay, listen, aj, I. I can tell that you're clearly not in the right mood right now. I'm just correct.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I think Ajay's gonna begin walking towards the stairs.

[KA Statz]

As this has been going on, I think the rest of the ship will be aware that you're down here with us. And they are. I'm just letting you know they've asked us and they will try to disarm you.

[Lily Pichu]

I turn to Ajay very, very coldly. I'm like, wait a minute and walk over to lan's body and check her pulse.

[Marisha Tapara]

Viviana knew I come from a family.

[Lily Pichu]

Of assassins and I know what a dead body looks like. Why is lan dead?

[Marisha Tapara]

Viviana's hands gripped her daggers impulsively as she Moved to face Ajay.

[KA Statz]

And Yaga's gonna go. No, no, no, no, no, no. Lady Viviana, this is no she.

[Lily Pichu]

Why is Lan dead?

[KA Statz]

She, The Sunken Mother hit her pretty badly back when we freed fluffy. Almost killed convo 2.

[Lily Pichu]

So you're telling me there's. My friend is dead here. Nimble is murdered. You think Audrey did it and now he wants to leave? No, no, no, no, no, no. I. I take out my daggers.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I want to clarify, Viviana, that I do not want to leave.

[Marisha Tapara]

Hearing the commotion below deck, Convo, still bloodied, felt his presence was needed.

[Enrique Perez]

I look at Vin. I say, are you able to control yourself if we go downstairs?

[Chris Lers]

Only under the condition of knowing that whoever's down there is unarmed as well.

[Enrique Perez]

If I stand in front of you, will you control yourself, Convo?

[Chris Lers]

If who I think is down there is down there, I don't feel safe knowing that he's armed and I am not.

[Florian Zeitler]

So much for a brave leader.

[Marisha Tapara]

Vind took no actual physical damage, but some emotional damage, gaining for stress as his ego had been critically marred.

[Chris Lers]

People talk a lot about bravery until they've seen their friend's life taken right in front of them. The man is a monster.

[Florian Zeitler]

And you're a coward.

[Chris Lers]

Then I don't cower. But all I ask, Convo, is to please hand me back my. At least my spear and I'll go below deck with you. I'm strong on my own, but I'm stronger when I have my spear.

[Florian Zeitler]

Doesn't really sound like that.

[Marisha Tapara]

Convo looked from the captain to Vind, unsure of what to do, concluding that sometimes inaction was the best course of action and grunting before returning to his chores as the ship's sole surviving deckhand. Below deck, daggers had been drawn.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I, Viviana, do not want to leave. I want to avenge my friend. It is that simple.

[Lily Pichu]

So you didn't kill Lan?

[Kiera Baxendale]

I have not seen lan for many hours.

[Lily Pichu]

Okay. I began to think, odd, I was probably telling the truth. Then I get very sad. I put down my daggers.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I am sorry. If you have loved someone, I understand how it feels.

[Lily Pichu]

Yeah, I kind of liked her. I mean, yeah, sure, she was drunk all the time, but she was cool. I mean, pretty sure she was an occult too, but you know, people come from different families. Did anyone else hear that? Nevermind. Yeah, she was definitely an occult, but Ajay, my priorities have shifted and I step out of the way and go to Lan's body to give my respects.

[Marisha Tapara]

Ajay turned his gaze to Av and Yara.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Will you tell me, please? Where is Vind? Did he. I assume, given that people have come down here asking me to hand over my weapons and telling me that I am a killer. That this poisonous rat is in fact here and spreading lies.

[KA Statz]

He is. But again, as of right now, Ajay.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Starts walking towards the stairs again.

[Travis Vengrof]

Neither Yara nor AV could physically stand in Aje's way, so they made no attempt to stop him. However, they did not move out of the way either.

[KA Statz]

Ajay, right now, with the exception of Vind, no one is saying you're a killer. We're trying to figure out the truth here.

[Kiera Baxendale]

It sounds a lot like someone is calling me a killer. Yara, do not lie to me.

[KA Statz]

As I said, Vind is. But none of us have been to that cave. Was it. So we don't know really what happened. And as you're not much in a sharing mood right now, we're having a hard time figuring out what happened or taking sides.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I have no problem with you so long as you stand aside.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

And that's why you'll have a problem with me. You'll see. This is not your ship. This is the Willow. This is Captain Gelmanship, of which I'm the second mate. And I know. I see I'm only coming up to your knees here, but I'll cut the back of them real smooth and take you down to my height. If you don't put the weapons down to comply with the Captain's orders, you and Vind can kill each other when you get to Winterport. I frankly don't care what happens once you're gone. But right now, you're on our Willow, out at sea. And here, the word of the captain is the word of the law.

[Marisha Tapara]

I've gestured to Yarat multiple times during this monologue. Indications like now, Yara, do the thing. Now, Yara, hit him behind the head. Yara. But he did not.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I have had enough of this little person. Do you really wish to talk down to me? I have seen my friend die. The killer who also took one of my other friends lives. He is up there trying to spread lies and poison about me. If you think that I am just going to sit here and let this happen, he will almost certainly try to slit my throat as I sleep. And if you give him a chance, maybe he slits your throat too.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Look, you think you were the only one to lose friends today, but you're not. I hear what you're saying.

[KA Statz]

Jahe, who is disregarding a direct order for the second time today, is going to pull Arf aside mid sentence. We truly do not stand a chance here. He could actually kill the both of us quite easily.

[Marisha Tapara]

Seeing the fear in their eyes, Ajay realized that he had unintentionally scared those in front of him. It was rare when he stood to his full height. Rarer yet when he allowed his emotions and full strength to show. And he'd forgotten that even among his own people, he could be an intimidating presence.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Okay. It is this that you want. There will come a moment where I will need this particular dagger back. You will know the moment. It will be when Vind is crying out for his life.

[Travis Vengrof]

Aja started again for the stairs. Ave was now more confused than ever as the man before her simply handed over his weapons, one of which was the dagger she understood to evidence Aje's very guilt. She hurried with Yara to follow Aje upstairs and proceeded to place the weapons directly into the hands of the captain. The bell was struck twice and Ajay cautiously approached the captain, noting the presence of Vind Greyview sulking behind Convo.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I would like to respect your ship. I will make this offer once and once only. If that man is not thrown in jail, I will kill him now. He killed Nimble, tried to kill me, and I believe was responsible for the death of another friend of mine. You have to decide now.

[Enrique Perez]

Combo steps up to the captain's defense before anything happens and says you need to be pragmatic about the situation. And given the circumstances, I understand it's really heated. But also realize that we have a wild fucking beast in our ship that can go off at any time. So before you guys do any dumb fuckery around here, be aware of the situation in your surroundings. I know you guys have beef, but we have other problems going on at the same time.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I do not have a problem with anyone else here. None whatsoever. But let me tell you right now, this man will try to kill each and every one of you if you let him. To avoid being brought to justice.

[Travis Vengrof]

Vind sneered at Ajay.

[David M. Berdeville]

Ajay, I would like to believe you and put a temporary end to this until it can be settled on land in Winterboard. So I'm going to ask you a question, and it's a very blunt one. If we're supposed to believe that you can be trusted, then why do you have that goddamned idol in your possession? My shipwright has informed me that he saw it in your cloak while you were handing over your weapons. An object that should be safely stowed away in our ship's storage.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I gave you an offer. I gave you my blades, I will gladly return anything. I will comply, and I will tell you anything you want to know, but not until that man is either dead or in a cell. If you refuse to do this, you will have to kill me first.

[David M. Berdeville]

If you admit that you didn't in fact steal our property and are not open to discussing this further, then I'll ask every able body aboard my Willow to detain him, disarm him, and put him in the cell. It's that simple. We'll keep you under constant guard and ensure no one goes near you, and that the peace aboard the Willow is maintained. Theft aboard this ship will not be tolerated, and you'll be released to face a proper trial once we've arrived in Winter Port in two weeks time. We can do this the easy way.

[Marisha Tapara]

Or the air around Ajay grew colder. As with the light was given by the hooded lanterns dimmed, and Ajay's body was wreathed in shadows, growing a full head taller and splitting, fracturing into a million permeations of the same shadowy form, which seemed to occupy roughly the same space. His cloak billowed behind him as thousands of piercing glowing eyes coming from somewhere stared at the crew from beyond whatever plan a reality its fabric was connected to. Aje extended his hand and his crackling staff simply materialized, as if summoned by the darkness itself, or perhaps handed to him by shadows. And in that same moment he cast a spell, sending crackling energy hurling toward Vind, who scarcely had time to react strangely.

[Travis Vengrof]

Yuehai, seeing this as a possible end to her life, or at least the lives of two men, found that she could do nothing but blast, laugh, and enhance the show with cantrips of fog, mist, and glowing lights, lights that Yara found all too reminiscent of other horrors he'd been forced to relive only recently.

[Kiera Baxendale]

18 total to hit.

[Marisha Tapara]

The blast struck Vind for 9 damage, his armor taking the brunt of the force behind the strike that would have felled most elves his size. However, failing his wisdom saving throw, Vind found himself frightened of this form of dread that Ajay had taken.

[David M. Berdeville]

Detain him, Shaisa Falis.

[Marisha Tapara]

The bellowing of the captain snapped some of the crew from their terrified state as Second mate Aav Mitov hopped over the railing of the aft deck, jumping toward Ajay, who unfortunately still towered over her. She struck him for four bludgeoning damage with the side of her sword, very much trying not to kill the man but doing her best to knock him out. Yet this strike did not break Ajay's focus on Vind in the slightest his twisted forms made no sign of aggression toward Av, and he did not even seem to care or register that she was between him and Vind. Even as he shrugged off a suppression spell from Galusk, Ajay's muscles briefly tightened before coming back under his control. And even as first Mate Lurs jumped forward and put both arms around Ajay in an attempt to restrain him. Ajay's stare did not falter, a fact that was not lost on uda.

[KA Statz]

Uda.

[Lily Pichu]

What the hell?

[Travis Vengrof]

Remembering that she gave Ajay guidance before they entered the King Cave, and feeling some measure of guilt given his apparent guilt in the death of Nimble, she felt it would only be fair to even the odds and so placed a hand on the back of Vin's leg and cast cure wounds, her magics quickly repairing the wound to his chest.

[Florian Zeitler]

Now we're even.

[Chris Lers]

Wait, Ajay. Stop, please. I. I know you're grappling with a lot right now, but you just tried to take me down in front of everybody here. Why have you chosen this path? I didn't know that you had the cursed idol on you. Perhaps that's what influenced you to act in such a manner. And you truly had nothing to do with my brother's death. It's not your fault.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Okay? Fuck that guy. I'm gonna shoot another beam of energy from the end of my staff at Vind. 17.

[Marisha Tapara]

The growing golden green miasma at the end of Ajay's staff once again crackled to a furious concentration of energy that shot across the ship, striking Vind Once more for 7 damage. Vind, for his part, succeeded, his saving throw overcoming his fear. But it was already clear that he didn't have to raise a finger against Ajay to win this fight or any other. The orc had sealed his own fate with his rash and emotional actions. And Vin watched as Lurs of. And now Udah joined in to pull him down and restrain him.

[Travis Vengrof]

Just give up.

[Marisha Tapara]

But it was Galusk who landed the blow that would take this monster down in the form of a sleeping sp.

[KA Statz]

Pull you to slumber.

[Marisha Tapara]

Vind couldn't help but smile, subconsciously toying with his bracelet and giving a silent prayer of thanks to the giving God for well received guidance. Such cunning did not come naturally to Vind, who was more used to hunting than politics. But he felt like he could grow to become used to such things if all foes proved to be so easy to take down. I think he's down, Acupold. Turn out his pockets on it. And Ajay succumbed to the call of sleep, returning to his natural form and letting go of his rage. For now.

[Chris Lers]

Oh fuck.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

It's the idol.

[Marisha Tapara]

The hideous bone carving fell from Av's trembling hand. A curious thing, terrible and strange.

[Enrique Perez]

Myra, this is your thing. Make it go away with magic.

[KA Statz]

I can't break my spell or else.

[Lily Pichu]

He might wake up.

[David M. Berdeville]

One step at a time. Bring him down and lock him up in the. I suppose there's just one cage now. Udo, can you take care of the. Huh?

[Lily Pichu]

I gotta help carry him into the cell. I can put it away.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

What? Me? I. Well, I know harm in touching it again, I guess. Suppose I'm already cursed and all.

[Marisha Tapara]

We can deal with him later.

[Florian Zeitler]

Lets get him locked up.

[Marisha Tapara]

As the crew carried the unconscious form of Ajay below deck, Av nervously fidgeted with the object, which she was now sure was terribly cursed at best, if not inhabited by spirits that might haunt her for as long as she lived.

[KA Statz]

As he's still a bit off from having defied Alv's order, still shaken from not only the day's events, but the experience with UI's lights and the recent deaths of their comrades and Laan Jargo will take a moment to stare at the idol a bit longer and try to glean what he can about its history.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

What? You want to hold it?

[KA Statz]

I don't. I. I just hope to tell you more about its history. Perhaps. But in all honesty, rolling poorly. I've never seen anything like it. And it's really quite terrible to look at some kind of bone carved into the shape of a hideous creature. I know Ajay has some sort of connection to spirits. I wonder if he actually stole it or if perhaps it was drawn to him.

[Chris Lers]

I don't want to diminish the severity of Ajay's actions, but it very well could have influenced his behavior within the cave.

[Enrique Perez]

Here.

[KA Statz]

Box.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Open it, you lunk.

[Marisha Tapara]

Sorry, sorry.

[Travis Vengrof]

Here you are. High rolled a 17 for religion to identify the figure.

[Florian Zeitler]

I know that in certain parts of the world, inlands, further to the south of where I come from, are celebrated gods. We know gods like the Sunken one or the Storm Lord. But in addition to the greater gods, there are a number of smaller local gods we do not know. And this one reminds me of a drawing I once saw of just such a God from either the Gray Swamp or Gensler. This one's pretty frightening, but some of the other ones I'm more familiar with can be more calm or childlike. Yeah, I've got nothing.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Galus said. Jensla too. Fits rather snug in A box with all that stuffing?

[Enrique Perez]

Yeah, like it was supposed to be there all along.

[KA Statz]

So as AFT takes the box downstairs, Jaro's going to stick to her aside, trying to, I don't know, give her a hand with a box. Because again, she seems like she might want the help.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

I nearly got flattened by that giant warlock, and yet she want to help me. You ignored a direct order. But I guess it's just because you're a coward.

[KA Statz]

You're not. You're not entirely wrong there. And I'm sorry. I'm not really used to so much violence outside of the occasional bar brawl. I'm a shipwright, not a privateer. And if my skills can be of aid, I'll always and gladly offer them. But for things outside my skill set. Let me also add that the jump over the railing you did there was pretty amazing. Just saying.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

I nearly got tangled in his horns. Didn't even hurt him all that much either.

[KA Statz]

Well, in your defense, even when you jump from the upper deck, quite bravely, I might add. I hope you get a nice bonus or commendation when we reach port. He was still slightly higher than you. Like, I could swear he got taller somehow.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Yeah, kind of pissed me off, frankly.

[KA Statz]

And I think they're antlers, not horns. Is there any. Any? Jaak is bending down a little looking at her face.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

What are you doing?

[KA Statz]

Were you hurt? Do you have any new marks or scars that make for a fun story to buy in Winterport.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

I don't think so. Do you see any?

[KA Statz]

Some dirt. Let's clean that off.

[Marisha Tapara]

Ach.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Knock it off.

[KA Statz]

Hey, hey. One moment, one moment.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Ow.

[KA Statz]

There. Look at this. A splinter. Well, it might not leave a scar, but I think you'll be happier without it.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Danker. Gyana could have come away with something worth the time like that. Scarce Vin's got over his eye. A proper story. Strong scar.

[KA Statz]

Well, coming away with your life and tact is enough. Boy, do I know all about splinters. Though. Look, I was. I was clearly in the wrong earlier. I shouldn't have stood back like a coward. I should have helped you and the others. The more I think about this, the more I have deep concerns. I was worried enough about a potentially cursed idol being on board the ship. But I'm even more concerned about as he haven't taken it. I think Vin may have been onto something. And perhaps it pushed compelled him to murder Mr. Trout. Spine. Trout nimble.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

It's possible. I think I heard a stories like that back home in Nelwog. He was acting quite a bit Commish since we hit land, so perhaps his actions were not his own. Hopefully he'll come back to his senses after he's had time in the cage with Oola midst. I just remembered. I touched the idol, too. Think there's any way to get this bad hocus pocus off me?

[KA Statz]

Not really. But the good news is that it's back safely in its box. Once we stash it back safely in the deepest corner back there, out of reach of everyone, we should be safe again.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Yeah. Yeah. Gonna stow it in the deep holds this time. Maybe make a ring of salts around it, too.

[KA Statz]

That sounds like a good plan. Oh, and just as you said, if this idol could have played any part in what transpired with him and how he was acting, maybe you can convince the Captain to keep that in mind so we don't make any rash decisions about him.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

If I'm being honest, Captain Dimass, right now he's a true Nell Deech believer. This shock him, but I've no doubt we'll be sticking with a plan to keep RJ Locked up till we reach port.

[KA Statz]

That's a relief. I hope we can confirm it during the next crew meeting, just to be sure, because I didn't think when I first met Ajay, he. He didn't strike me as the kind of man to do such things. Then again, I know very little about him.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Well, I know he's got big effing horns or antlers that are terrifying when you jump towards him. Never realized just how sharp and pointy they were before I was at eye level with him.

[KA Statz]

I'm glad you weren't hurt.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Nearly impaled myself on him.

[KA Statz]

Please don't tell the people that were with us in the temple, but that was the bravest thing I've seen all day.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Ah, well, anyway, I. I appreciate it, Yara. Thanks for the chat and for helping me with all that.

[KA Statz]

Of course.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

I'm gonna get this box into the hole by myself, so go. Do whatever. Be at the meeting later. Captain's orders.

[Marisha Tapara]

Still slightly red. Ah. Vanished below the hatch to the galley. Yara stood in place for a few moments more, smiling, before moving to find Celie so he could show his owl affection and take a much needed breather. Seelie greeted him above deck, landing on his shoulder and looking pleased with herself. She glanced longingly at the meat being fed to the owlbear.

[Lily Pichu]

So earlier, Udall was about to give the pit carcass to Fluffy. I wanted to, like, stop her and be like, wait, can I feed her?

[Travis Vengrof]

Udah? Who was, up until that moment, enthusiastically dragging the pig across the ground toward the hungry owlbear, was happy to oblige.

[Lily Pichu]

Uh, sure, if you'll do it.

[Florian Zeitler]

Great.

[KA Statz]

It's all yours.

[Lily Pichu]

Thanks, Lady Viviana.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Woohoo.

[Lily Pichu]

Okay, so I'm gonna feed Fluffy for the next hour. And while I'm feeding her, I am talking. I'm like, telling my feelings to Fluffy, mostly about Lon dying. I kind of lament about my life. Like, oh my God, I came on the ship to explore the world and stuff and see new things and escape the past where, you know, my family's full of assassins and they kill everyone. And it's not like I didn't like long Fluffy, you know, I liked her. Yeah, she was in a cult and she was weird and a bit annoying, but it's not like I didn't like her. And now she's dead and I don't even know what went on with the others, really. But now Nimble's dead too. Can't keep up. I don't understand why death is just everywhere, Fluffy. Like, I don't know why things have to be this complicated. And I have no idea who killed who or, like, why everyone's fighting right now. Fluffy, I feel like you're the only one on this ship who understands me. And she continues to vent like any melodramatic teenager with an owlbear, while the others are fighting in the background.

[Marisha Tapara]

Fluffy grumbled in approval.

[Travis Vengrof]

One thing Viviana did realize while watching Fluffy pull apart a piece of pig meat from its ribcage was that she'd been sharing the nicer room with lan this entire trip. And now that she was not there, all of Lon's belongings still remained in their shared room.

[Lily Pichu]

Ooh.

[Travis Vengrof]

Never knowing when someone might disappear, when Borhoka might cut their life's thread short, leaving everything that they had planned in the world behind.

[Lily Pichu]

Yeah, I think I'm very, like, shook because although I come from an assassin family, that was like, ordered, you know, that was all premeditated, but this was, like, unexpected. So I'm. I'm pretty upset. Fluffy's definitely helping. It's like an emotional support animal right now.

[Travis Vengrof]

Sometime later, after spells were cast and a dangerous warlock was subdued, Vintgravyu walked the willow's wake to see which familiar faces had survived the chaos of the last Light ritual. He could count. The ship's navigator Looper, Mr. Omen, Convo, Yara, Lurs, Galusk, Av, Uda, Seelie, and Captain Gelmane among the surviving crew now truly A skeletal one. And among the guests, not including prisoners, he counted only himself, Yuhai, and Lady Viviana, who seemed to be obsessing over the owlbear. Out of everyone on the ship, Viviana was perhaps the most useful ally. And so Vind nervously touched the scar over his left eye. The scar, he told everyone, was from an owlbear attack. As he hesitantly approached her to start a conversation.

[Chris Lers]

Why in the world you'd befriend such a beast is beyond me.

[Lily Pichu]

Oh, Vinh. My only other buddy whose name starts with a V. That's how I remember your name. Anyway, Fluffy was going to be sacrificed. We don't let our friends just die, right? I figured if anyone would have understood that, it would have been you.

[Chris Lers]

Yeah, that's exactly what I'm talking about. Viviana, my companion, my friend, was murdered by someone who is below deck right right now, probably laughing and planning his escape. And you're worried about an owl bear?

[Lily Pichu]

Yeah, well, it's not like my friend didn't die too, you know. And I gesture wildly to where Lon's body was. People die all the time, Vin.

[Chris Lers]

Yes, but a cold blooded killer is literally right beneath our feet.

[Lily Pichu]

How do I know you're not the killer though? I heard you guys arguing. How am I supposed to know?

[Chris Lers]

Didn't you hear my explanation earlier? Didn't you see Ajay literally turn into a rather terrifying, if I might say so, shadow monster and attack me? And. And before he did that, did you see any bodily harm on him anywhere? And have you? Have you seen this? And Vin once again parts the armor around his amazingly well defined abs to show off the more recent battle damage he received from the caves when he just barely was able to escape with his life. Doesn't that concern you at all?

[Lily Pichu]

Viviana just kind of shrugs. I'mma. I'mma be honest. I don't even know if I can trust you. What if you did that to yourself?

[Chris Lers]

That would just be sick. And trust me, right?

[Lily Pichu]

That would be psychotic, right?

[Chris Lers]

If I was one to cause bodily harm to myself, absolutely psycho. Yes, to prove something, I wouldn't have been put in a position of leadership. The Shade Elves are discerning hunters and we don't take kindly to liars. I can see that you're busy, perhaps, and still dealing with the events of the last few hours as we all are. So I'll give you some space.

[Lily Pichu]

Oh, actually I wanted to ask, do you mind if I see that wound a little closer?

[Chris Lers]

Actually, no, I don't, actually. Vin steps three feet closer and Once again separates his armor to show off his battle wounds as he holds his breath.

[Lily Pichu]

That looks gnarly. Um, yeah, I rolled seven to look at them a bit closer. Being used to looking at wounds, but it's clearly bludgeoning damage and something he didn't do to himself. Got it. Okay, so this doesn't look like you did it to yourself. I mean, that would be absolutely psychotic, insane, insane behavior. And I will be so worried if you did that and we are in the same vicinity, but I'm going to trust that you didn't. In which case you were attacked. Could you. Could you give me a moment? I'll join you and the others in a bit. I just. I just need some time.

[Chris Lers]

Yes, and all I ask now is that you think about what you've seen. My wounds. The fact that he had Nimble's dagger as a trophy. The fact that he stole something from the ship and tried to murder me in plain sight of everyone and put the lives of everyone on the ship in danger by summoning dark magics. You've been here with Fluffy for a few hours now, and I know you need a little bit more time. But if something happens, we're gonna need to stick together. And I need you to know that you can trust me. I have your back. If anything happens, and if you can find it in yourself, sometime, perhaps later today, perhaps tomorrow or the following day, I'd feel a lot better knowing that you have mine as well.

[Lily Pichu]

I don't trust him. But he is handsome. And the wound actually kind of adds to his attractiveness. He's got that rugged, oh, look, I'm so injured sort of look going on. So Viviana's kind of like, okay, Vin, alright, I'll have your back.

[Chris Lers]

Thank you. I hate. I hate that I had to ask that of you. That there even have to be sides to this.

[Lily Pichu]

Oh, no, no, Absolutely. Yeah, we need. We need to stick together.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Yeah.

[Lily Pichu]

Your eyes are really green.

[Chris Lers]

Yours are beautiful as well, like a royal purple. But listen, we can't get into that right now. There's something I need to take care of. I'll be back soon, okay?

[Lily Pichu]

Okay.

[Marisha Tapara]

As Vindh departed, a bit confused if he'd gained an ally or a girlfriend. What was Yuhai up to? As the willow put more distance between its guests and the sunken bulwark.

[Florian Zeitler]

So just after RJ has been taken into custody and the fight concludes, I'm just looking out at the water, talking to myself, complaining. This is so typical. The one guy that I have the tiniest affection for leaves One way or the other, just like the others. And then I just get on this new ship and we're suddenly being chased by the sunken faith. People are fighting like children and someone aboard is already dead. Oh wait, there's an owlbear the ship now. And as a person who likes animals, I'm going to check it out. And as I pass Vin, I scoff at him. You okay mate? You look kind of psychotic. And I don't wait for his answer before continuing to. Was it Viviana? And I ask her, what, what's, what's the name? Is, is it yours?

[Lily Pichu]

Well, might as well be mine at this point. Her name is Fluffy. She likes chin scratches and dead weasels.

[Florian Zeitler]

Do you think if I scratch her chin she'll be okay with that? Use animal friendship and I start scratching Fluffy's chin.

[Lily Pichu]

Oh, look at that. She likes you.

[Florian Zeitler]

Aww.

[Lily Pichu]

You'Re you Yuhai, the musician from the Sorrel's edge, right?

[Florian Zeitler]

Yes. I believe I've heard the others refer to you as Lady Viviana.

[Lily Pichu]

Just Viviana's fine.

[Florian Zeitler]

Well, it's my pleasure to finally get to meet you, Viviana. Oh, her leg kicks when you scratch here.

[Lily Pichu]

So sorry if this is rude. Were you very close to Nimble?

[Florian Zeitler]

Um, well, he certainly made an impression on me. We actually just met this morning, but he was so cheerful and friendly and I tried to sort of say certain things to make him not enter the cave with RJ and Vin, you know, I guess they were friends so they went together. How about you? You've met all of them before. It seems like you guys know each other.

[Lily Pichu]

Yeah, he was, he was. Oh no, I shouldn't be rude.

[Florian Zeitler]

No, just tell me.

[Lily Pichu]

He was very short.

[Florian Zeitler]

What, Nimble?

[Lily Pichu]

Yeah, I called him shorty once. I think I feel kind of bad now.

[Florian Zeitler]

You know, I'm actually shorter than him by like 2 inches, so.

[Lily Pichu]

No, really, I didn't, I didn't notice. Not at all. I looked down at her as I say this, so.

[Florian Zeitler]

So you knew RJ and Vindh before? From the ship. And like the rest of the crew, you all seem to know each other so well despite it being such a large ship. And that lady who has met her unfortunate fortune.

[Lily Pichu]

Yeah, Lon, the freedom fighter lady from a cult. I really did. I, I liked her a lot. So her being gone is. You know, I shared a room with her. Do you want to move into my room instead?

[Florian Zeitler]

Yeah, sure, why not?

[Lily Pichu]

I mean, it's a really, really nice room. I think it'd just be a waste if, you know, I'M just there. Right.

[Florian Zeitler]

But just out of curiosity, like, you've known RJ and Vin beforehand. Were they always like this?

[Lily Pichu]

Yeah, well, neither of them really gave me murderer vibes before we explored the island. I mean, Vin was just as really handsome elf. Really, really green eyes and really nice blonde hair. And cool scars, really.

[Florian Zeitler]

I guess we have different taste in men.

[Lily Pichu]

That's. That's good. Okay, we're gonna get along great.

[Florian Zeitler]

And. And Ajay, was he always quiet?

[Lily Pichu]

Ajay was always polite, I swear. I mean, yeah, he looks kind of scary, but he was very respectful and polite. I honestly can't imagine either of them just going around killing their friends for fun.

[Florian Zeitler]

RJ strikes me as someone who has a deep past. Like he's survived and overcome difficult trials. There's some sadness behind those eyes.

[Lily Pichu]

I mean, don't we all?

[Florian Zeitler]

Right, I suppose.

[Lily Pichu]

I bet you do as well.

[Florian Zeitler]

Yeah. Don't look at my eyes. I have green eyes, by the way, if that's your favorite color.

[Lily Pichu]

I look at her eyes, like as soon as she says that.

[Travis Vengrof]

Looking into Yuhai's deep green eyes, Viviana, for the briefest of seconds, got the same impression one felt staring into the eyes of a predator at night. That deep shining glow as the lantern light shone past them.

[Florian Zeitler]

So I found out that aboard this ship is a copy of the collected Legends of Rive. Are you familiar with them?

[Lily Pichu]

I'm gonna be completely honest with you. I am not.

[Florian Zeitler]

Well, Rive is a fabled hero and demigod from the realm of Renasco. And if you're just sitting here, I happen to know one of Rive's stories. It happens to be an old favorite of mine, and I could share it with Fluffy and whoever else wants to listen.

[Lily Pichu]

Well, I guess Fluffy might like to hear it.

[Florian Zeitler]

Okay, then. Let me just get my ukulele. Okay, so let me now share the legend of R the Star Ox and the Court of Souls so was rife to all sure known, set upon by an ill for though part God and hero sure was but mortal still he took to his yoke and drove up to high sky and moon among the stars he wandered his plough the milky night Till he came to rest within her long and weary sight. She, O great and dreadful known, the end of all our life, the splendor all souls revere and fear in simple smock High Borhoka shearing, snipping on her star thrown rock, Old Borhoka venerated here I humbly bow. Know you me, O regent of all here upon your throne Rive Laid his prizes, sword, helm, yoke, Then bent head to stone. Why would I know you, mortal man? Though one among stars, my work consumes time. Your life so many passing. Think you tiny men that I dwell on mortals passing years? I know you not so speak your peace, starry mortal man. O great old Bohoka, I am rife of nelium. Come up among the stars. I seek to cure an ailment that preys a upon my breast. Please, I seek a swift relent, for I've battled demons, beasts, shades and wicked men. In honor of the gods I serve. Almighty Rhelia, my father, though a God, I can never reach so near, I suffer now a mortal mock, though I served his calls. Borhoka cut a life cord, silvered, gleaming, it fell, child. Little mortal one, do not let him see tears swell. He your father or another? You are soon to pass. Your guard will come, I will clip. Then night and final sun. And after I have supped dinner, your line will be done. Gallant deeds, though grand to you, are pittance to this king. The mortal question plagues you. Nothing can be done yet. Come now, I'll let you see your court as it's unspun. Raiv's heart was struck to learn this deep betrayal of fate. And Bohoka, gentle giant, took his human hand, led him to her spinning wheel, a soul in every strand. Yours is coming up. Soon such few souls would glow so bright. But you live on in song and story, heroic muse. You've made your peace, said goodbyes, nothing left to excuse. Then he noticed in her hand the shears of Thulega. Blade of silver with blade of iron, Snipping away one sniper soul merely an infant. The next, one long, turned grey. As his glowing cord approached, he looked up one more time. Oh, great Bohoka, please take care of my ox and yoke, for I have no one left now, neither friends nor kinfolk. It must be true. My time has come to join them beyond. I see it now, it rounds the wheel. Only this breath left. And so by silver and iron, soul of Rithe was cleft. As rife faded, his soul string fell to the growing pile. Come now, ox. Your master's gone. And I will take your care, I will. Air troubles to your uncomprehending ear. Borhoka led the yoke, pulling with her the old string. Once, long ago, little one, when time was very young, I cut a special cord, see? Oh, I should bite my tongue. Lost, it, fell to mortal lands. Your master wasn't the one. So Bahoka and the ox did on the great throne rest. And she felt relieved. A secret lifted from her chest.

[Marisha Tapara]

And while the tale concluded with Viviana fast asleep, all aboard the Willows Wake could not help but listen in to such a masterful retelling of the story that had been in their hands, but just beyond grasp. Literacy being as rare as it was among the crew of the Willow's Wake, Even Aje, waking within a prison cell that dampened his magic, found solace in the tale, as Mr. Ullman smoked nearby in muted silence. As time passed, Aje eventually introduced himself to the curious man he now shared to sell with Ulla.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I do not think we have been properly introduced. I am Aje Ogon of Sangoma.

[Florian Zeitler]

I know.

[Kiera Baxendale]

What. What are you here for, may I ask?

[Florian Zeitler]

Do the reasons behind our current captivity hold value to you? The outcome? Our path remains unchanged.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Well, say I am bored. And we have more than a few hours ahead of us.

[Florian Zeitler]

I will not have the actions of my flesh be judged by a shaman reduced to thievery. Such action was far below you.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Yes. Truth be told, I do not know why I even took it. It sort of called to me. I thought it might be important somehow. And my people have a slightly different view on this ownership.

[Florian Zeitler]

But you did find what you were looking for. Was it worth the cost?

[Kiera Baxendale]

I want to say no, but I am honestly not sure. Had I known the cost, I would have never gone. But this knowledge is something I did not know I needed. It changes so much. I never knew my mother. And still I wish. I wish that things could have been different.

[Florian Zeitler]

We have much time ahead of us and much to reflect on. It seems.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Okay. Well, I am. I like to collect stories of people. I like to learn new things. So feel free to pray out loud.

[Florian Zeitler]

Tomorrow evening, the smelly man will leave, and the other one will come. That will be your chance.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Okay. Well, I do not know that I need to take any chance. But the only thing that waits for me on the other side of these bars is probably me getting killed by the rest of the crew whilst I try to avenge our friend. Because there is a poison upon this ship that has twisted the words of. They have twisted the minds of the people aboard it against me. So I don't know if I really need to leave here.

[Florian Zeitler]

If it is the will of the God, one of you will die. And if it is not, you won't embrace this Shaman of the Sangoma.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Yes, I will embrace it.

[Florian Zeitler]

When the time comes. And it will come. Dwell on these thoughts. Heed these spoken words.

[Kiera Baxendale]

That is not Ominous at all. I will. I have something that I need to do to write. I need to get it out of my system. Thank you for the conversation.

[Travis Vengrof]

Ulla only smirked as aje produced a lone sheet of paper and a small piece of graphite, which was woven into part of his cloak. Spending the next few hours writing down with immaculate detail the events of what transpired on the sunken bulwark, adding background information surrounding Aje's friendship with Vin's brother Alistair, and the latter's subsequent and mysterious death, rumored to have been the result of poison. Aje was hesitant but included that the spirits had guided him, encouraged him to look into the possibilities of poison, and that less than a week after Alistair's death, death plagues beset their lands, further implicating Vin's treachery. It wasn't until a few days later that Aje found the right moment to pass this letter to Convo, who had been sent to relieve an exhausted omen. And moved by such a desperate and vulnerable display of trust, Convo was too embarrassed to admit in the moment that he could not in fact, read their conversation concluded.

[Enrique Perez]

I'm very aware of the conversations. I was there. But I understand where you're coming from and I'll keep an eye out on him, so don't worry about that. Just keep yourself safe. We can get this all sorted out at Winterport. I promise I'll make sure you get a fair trial.

[Kiera Baxendale]

I appreciate you, Convo, for being at least upfront with me. You show me respect and I will always do the same to you. Thank you.

[Enrique Perez]

Convo, who has no idea what the note says, is going to share it with the captain at the end of the shift and once the storm passes.

[Travis Vengrof]

But well before that note had ever been written, during the final hours of the day that the Willows Wake escaped from the sunken bulwark, if it could in fact be called a day. Convo, tired from one of the most exhausting shifts of his life, sat down, leaning against the invisible mast of the Willow's Wake, and proceeded to scowl at Viviana as he caught his breath, waiting for an opportune moment of silence during an after meal conversation between Viviana and Yuhai, to slowly approach her and share his feelings.

[Enrique Perez]

I hope she's fucking worth it.

[Lily Pichu]

Whoa, what's with the attitude?

[Enrique Perez]

The attitude? What's with the attitude? Your shenanigans and that fucking animal cost the lives of Lon Becker, Yelena, and got us all branded as heretics. We talked about this and I trusted you to behave, to follow the Rules. And the first thing you go and do is cause trouble that killed three people, lads. Laud's death is on your damn hands.

[Lily Pichu]

Sounds to me like you're projecting because you feel ashamed that you couldn't save them, so you're pinning it on me.

[Enrique Perez]

Yeah, clearly. I mean, after all, she was trying to save you.

[KA Statz]

Whatever.

[Enrique Perez]

And I look at Yuhai and say, word of advice. Those that stay close to this one don't make it very long. And I just get up and I start limping, leaving as much blood as I can, dragging my leg, limping all the way down to the captain's quarters. And I just knock loudly and enter before he can say anything.

[Marisha Tapara]

Convo and Viviana gained 14 and 7 stress respectively. But knew that there was little time for this as Convo was quickly before Captain Gelmane, who was clearly worse for wear than when he'd last been seen. A bottle in his hand as he looked over the charts.

[Enrique Perez]

Oh, here we go.

[Marisha Tapara]

Gelmane hardly seemed surprised to see Convo and did little more than pass the bottle before speaking. These actions, so out of character, confused. Convo.

[David M. Berdeville]

It's been a shitty day, hasn't it? Convo?

[Lily Pichu]

Sure.

[David M. Berdeville]

Well, frankly, I'm appreciative to have you on the crew. I don't know if we could have made it out of there without you. You were right. Right about Lady Viviana. And I should have listened to you. Now I'm a literal God's damned heretic.

[Kiera Baxendale]

Or worse.

[Enrique Perez]

Permission to speak freely, Captain?

[David M. Berdeville]

Of course.

[Enrique Perez]

I'm a little pissed off, sir. I warned you about Vivienne and the others. And I did as you requested. I followed the guests. I talked to them about obeying the rules, how they're necessary for our survival. And frankly, it all went its up.

[David M. Berdeville]

That's where I gave the task to you.

[KA Statz]

I.

[David M. Berdeville]

If anyone could have kept them in line, I figured it would have been you, Convo.

[Enrique Perez]

And I did my best to get everybody back, sir.

[David M. Berdeville]

And that's appreciated. I made the wrong call. But now we must live with the consequences. Among other unpleasantries. I appreciate the work you did. At least Lahn's body was able to be recovered. But. But I've no idea how to explain any of this to the Farhaller Company.

[Enrique Perez]

Anything else, sir?

[David M. Berdeville]

How long do you plan on staying on my ship after this?

[Enrique Perez]

From what I recall, and from what I remember, the job was just for winter port. After that, after I'm paid. I'm honestly not sure now.

[David M. Berdeville]

I don't know how many times you've been in these northern waters, or if you've had much experience with the Sunken faithful. But I don't know what we're going to do. The Willow did not receive the Sunken One's blessing, and I. I've been going there every year since I was 14. They're never gonna let me back.

[Enrique Perez]

Well, we made personal sacrifices, right? It may not have the same monetary value.

[David M. Berdeville]

As sure that any goodwill we had from personal sacrifices has been thoroughly undone by Viviana and Lan's actions. If we're lucky, all of my years of service to all Nelteach. Well, see us to port. She's not known as being forgiving.

[Enrique Perez]

Well, sir, as the saying goes, knock on wood. And we're surrounded by it. Let's just get through this and we can think about what happens once we get to port.

[Travis Vengrof]

Captain Gelmane sat down in his chair, leaning back, his eyes staring off at one of the walls. He didn't dismiss Convo so much as he simply stopped recognizing that he was present.

[Enrique Perez]

Sir, per your orders, Lon's been put into the hold so we can bring her to her next of kin in port. She's in a box in the sands, so the rats shouldn't be able to get to her. And once I kind of see Captain Gelmane isn't responding, I'll just turn around and leave quietly.

[Marisha Tapara]

As Convo stepped outside, he could feel a change in pressure, a change on the wind. Somewhere off in the distance of the endless dark, a storm was brewing. Dark Dice Shores of the Silver Thrum Chapter 9 grasping shadows created by Travis Vengrof and Ka Statz featuring Lily Pichu as Viviana Bloodchamber Eric Nelson as Vind Greyview J. Jasper William Cartwright as Ajay Ogun Florian Zeitler as Yara Enrique Perez as Convo Sophie Yang as Lan, Sam Yao as Yuehai KA Statz and Travis Van Grof as Co Dungeon Masters Featuring the voices of Karine Cromfli, Kiera Baxendale, David M. Berdeville, Chris Lers, Daria Ullman, and Marisha Tapara this episode was produced and edited with sound design by Travis Vengraf with dialogue editing assistance by Kayla Shue, mixing and mastering by Marissa Ewing, transcriptions by Chian Francois, and executive producers Dennis Greenhill, Carol Van Groff, AJ Punkin, and Michael Villegas. This episode features music by David Wise, Stephen Millin, Brandon Boone, and Travis Van Grauf. To support this production and get ad free access to bonus releases, music, world lore, art, and early access to Future Adventures in D&D Materials. Please join our patreon at patreon.com FoolAndScholar this is a Fool and Scholar production. Thank you for listening.

[Lily Pichu]

Realms of Peril and Glory from one.

[J. Jasper William Cartwright]

Shots to campaigns, indie games to established.

[KA Statz]

Titles, join Liz, Laura, Zach, James, Maddie, Naomi and Pip.

[Lily Pichu]

I wrote the natural 20.

[Florian Zeitler]

Yes, and a rotating cast of incredible guests.

[KA Statz]

I am Johnny Chiardini, Just William Cartwright, Grant Howitt, Harmony Bundy as we weave thrilling new stories with gorgeous sound design and beautiful original music. Search Realms of Peril and Glory wherever you listen to podcasts.

[Marisha Tapara]

If you want a person dead, you call a hitman. If you want a monster dead, you call Lincoln Franks. But you better be able to pay the price he asks because Lincoln doesn't work for free. Pay to sleep. Slay bitches. Slay Season 2 is the current season of Scott Sigler Slices, a fiction podcast with dark tales hacked from the mind of a number one New York Times best selling author. Slay is a foul mouthed monster killing drug addled antihero story that's John Wick meets Buffy meets Breaking bad. Slay Season 1 is complete and waiting for you in the feed, as is Scott's short story anthology, Blood Is Red. Scott Sigler Slices is the world's longest running fiction podcast, 19 Years and Counting with new episodes dropping every Sunday. Get Scott Ziggler Slices on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.