Dark Dice: Vigilance | Ep. 3 | Lost and Found

Release Date: November 4, 2024
Host/Author: Fool and Scholar Productions
Description: THE horror actual play podcast. (D&D) Each season, travelers embark on a journey into the dark corners of a fantasy world with dragons & monsters. They will never be the same again.

Episode Overview

In the third episode of the "Vigilance" series, titled "Lost and Found," the team delves deeper into the mysteries of the Central City district within Atreus. Tasked with investigating a series of missing persons, the group faces increasing challenges as they navigate through a bustling security checkpoint and uncover unsettling truths behind the disappearances.

Setting the Scene

The episode begins with the team making their way through the inner wall to the Central City district, burdened by the midday foot traffic at the main security checkpoint. Investigator Sylvanas Clarhout leads the team, who are contemplating whether to take a much-needed break at a familiar rest station or push forward to complete their mission promptly.

Notable Quote:

Shawn Francis [03:45]: "Well, we may as well stop for a bite, right? Keep our minds fresh."

Opting for a break, they enter a bustling rest station filled with enticing aromas and a welcoming atmosphere. Here, the team members engage in light-hearted banter, revealing personal backgrounds and tensions within the group.

Investigating the Missing Persons

As they gather at the rest station, the conversation shifts towards their primary mission—the investigation of missing individuals. The team decides to focus on Dr. Janice Dobson, a 35-year-old meal manufacturing engineer whose disappearance raises significant concerns due to his expertise in meal production, a critical resource in their world.

Notable Quote:

Kaitlin Statz [12:03]: "Some time ago, I was hired to look into the death of an officer of the Special Defense Force who died while on a routine patrol in the no man zone..."

Through meticulous investigation, the team examines Dr. Dobson’s residence, uncovering evidence of foul play, including dried blood and suspicious boot prints. They access security footage that reveals Dr. Dobson's abduction by two unidentified men wearing Civil Defense Force (CDF) garb, chillingly assisted by a figure named Hadrian Baker.

Notable Quote:

Peter Lewis [27:11]: "Citizen Hadrian Baker, Sanitation. I'm here to investigate a complaint."

Unveiling the Threat of the Fringers

The discovery of Hadrian Baker's involvement leads the team to suspect the involvement of the Fringers, a race with a troubled history and suspected dark motives. Through analysis of tattoos and symbols seen on the abductors, the team confirms the Fringers' presence and their potential threat to both the citizenry and critical infrastructures like meal manufacturing.

Notable Quote:

Kaitlin Statz [40:32]: "So we can confirm that Hadrian was with at least two known Fringers and they've kidnapped a doctor."

Escalating the Investigation

Realizing the severity of the situation, the team decides to escalate their findings to the Department of Special Services (DSS). They prepare to hand over critical information regarding Dr. Dobson’s expertise and the Fringers' involvement, understanding that this will necessitate a multi-district search and heightened secrecy to prevent public alarm.

Notable Quote:

Kaitlin Statz [44:05]: "This matter must be handled promptly and with the utmost secrecy."

Conclusion and Next Steps

The episode concludes with the team securing their findings and planning their next moves. They intend to follow up on sewer maps that might lead them to the Fringers' hideouts, highlighting the ongoing danger and the complexity of their mission. The urgency of locating Dr. Dobson before the Fringers can exploit his knowledge underscores the high stakes involved.

Notable Quote:

Shawn Francis [45:07]: "Liberty Vigilance is created and produced by Travis Fengroff with editing and writing assistance from KA Statz."

Key Takeaways

• Complex Investigations: The episode showcases the intricate nature of investigations within a fantasy world, blending elements of mystery and horror.
• Character Dynamics: Interpersonal relationships and backstories add depth to the narrative, enhancing the listener’s engagement.
• Rising Tension: The emergence of the Fringers as antagonists heightens the suspense, setting the stage for future confrontations.
• Resource Significance: Highlighting the importance of meal manufacturing emphasizes the socio-economic dynamics at play in Atreus.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [03:45] Shawn Francis: "Well, we may as well stop for a bite, right? Keep our minds fresh."
• [12:03] Kaitlin Statz: "Some time ago, I was hired to look into the death of an officer of the Special Defense Force..."
• [27:11] Peter Lewis: "Citizen Hadrian Baker, Sanitation. I'm here to investigate a complaint."
• [40:32] Kaitlin Statz: "So we can confirm that Hadrian was with at least two known Fringers and they've kidnapped a doctor."
• [44:05] Kaitlin Statz: "This matter must be handled promptly and with the utmost secrecy."

Conclusion

"Lost and Found" serves as a compelling installment in the "Vigilance" series, weaving a tale of intrigue, danger, and the relentless pursuit of truth. As the team uncovers deeper layers of the mystery, listeners are left eagerly anticipating the next episode’s revelations and the unfolding battle against the Fringers.