The air inside the cavern was thick with the metallic scent of blood and the earthy aroma of damp stone. The great bear lay motionless at their feet, its fur matted and stained from the fierce battle that had just transpired. Bartholemeow, still in his large tabby cat form, sat back on his haunches, his whiskers twitching as he gazed thoughtfully at the fallen beast.

“Why haven’t they come to check on us?” he mused aloud, his eyes reflecting the dim glow of the torchlight. The cavern echoed softly with the lingering silence that followed the frenzied clash.

Thalmiir Brukur hefted his axe over his shoulder, glancing toward the mouth of the cave. “You’d think the bandits would be curious after all that ruckus,” he grumbled. His grizzled features bore the marks of fatigue and the fresh scars of the encounter.

Pebblesong knelt beside the bear, her dwarven hands gentle as she traced the contours of its massive paw. “Perhaps they’re wary,” she suggested softly. “Or maybe they’ve abandoned us.”

A mischievous glint sparked in Hat’s eyes. “Or maybe they’re planning something,” the goblin chimed in, adjusting his colorful pointy hat. “I could send Puppet to take a look.”

Waer’dara Dryaalo’ara stepped forward, her gaze fixed on the darkness beyond. “Whatever their intentions, we should be prepared,” she murmured, her fingers absently tracing the symbol of the Spider Queen etched into her staff.

Bhakris Edge, ever the stoic, crossed his arms. “We can’t linger here forever. If the bandits have ulterior motives, we need to face them head-on.”

Bartholemeow’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully. “Perhaps we can use the bear to our advantage,” he purred, a sly smile curling his lips. “Imagine their faces if we emerged wearing its skin.”

A chuckle rippled through the group at the thought. “A bloody bear carcass isn’t the best disguise,” Thalmiir pointed out, though a hint of amusement tugged at his stern expression.

Undeterred, Hat nodded enthusiastically. “Let’s have Puppet go ahead. He can scout without drawing suspicion.”

With a silent command from Hat, Puppet—the animated marionette—saluted smartly and fluttered toward the cave entrance, its wooden limbs moving with uncanny fluidity. Bhakris followed close behind, determined to confront whatever awaited them outside.

Emerging into the daylight, Bhakris squinted as his eyes adjusted. Captain Thurman stood before them, his expression a mix of impatience and surprise. “Are you fleeing the bear?” he called out, a note of sarcasm in his voice. “Should I be bracing for impact?”

Bhakris met his gaze evenly. “The task is complete. The bear is no more.”

Thurman’s eyes flickered with a hint of relief. “Well then, I suppose congratulations are in order.” He hesitated, his gaze drifting past Bhakris toward the cave. “Mind if I take a look?”

“By all means,” Bhakris replied, stepping aside.

Inside the cave, the rest of the group watched as Thurman entered, his footsteps echoing softly against the stone. His eyes widened at the sight of the bear’s massive form and the partially pillaged treasure hoard behind it. “I see you’ve secured your payment,” he remarked, noting the untouched chest of gold.

Bartholemeow sauntered forward. “We took what was agreed upon,” he said innocently, his tail swishing. “But I couldn’t help but notice you might be interested in some fresh bear meat.”

Thurman raised an eyebrow. “Bear meat, you say?”

Pebblesong nodded earnestly. “It’s been magically purified. Perfectly safe and quite delicious.”

A smile slowly spread across Thurman’s face. “I suppose we could arrange a deal.”

The negotiations unfolded swiftly, with Bartholemeow’s silver tongue weaving a persuasive tapestry. Soon enough, they had secured a generous sum in exchange for the bear meat. As the bandits gathered, the atmosphere in the camp began to shift.

Waer’dara exerted her arcane prowess, levitating the massive bear carcass above the crowd. Gasps and cheers erupted as the bear floated whimsically, droplets of blood trailing like crimson rain. Hat and Puppet orchestrated a culinary spectacle, cooking portions of the meat and serving it alongside barrels of wine conjured from Hat’s endless jug.

Bartholemeow seized the moment, leaping atop a makeshift platform. “Gather ‘round, friends!” he called out, his voice carrying over the murmurs. “Let me regale you with the tale of the Great Bear Battle!”

With each word, he wove an enchanting narrative, embellishing the events with vivid imagery and grand gestures. He spoke of Pebblesong’s profound communion with the bear, Thalmiir’s heroic clash, and the cunning tactics that led to their victory. Minor illusions flickered around him, depicting scenes of valor and peril that captivated the audience.

Laughter and applause punctuated the story, the bandits’ hardened exteriors softening as they lost themselves in the tale. For a moment, the camp was filled with mirth and camaraderie, the shadows of their grim existence momentarily forgotten.

Amidst the revelry, Bhakris moved quietly through the crowd. His gaze fell upon a cluster of tents where wounded bandits rested, their faces etched with pain and weariness. Approaching them, he offered portions of the meat, his voice gentle. “Thought you might appreciate a meal brought to you.”

One of the bandits looked up, surprise flickering in his eyes. “That’s… mighty kind of you.”

Bhakris nodded. “There’s more to life than this,” he said softly. “Opportunities for honest work, a chance to start anew.”

The bandit sighed, contemplation shadowing his features. “Hard to see a way out sometimes.”

“Perhaps,” Bhakris replied, “but the path is there if you’re willing to take the first step.”

Back near the fire, Pebblesong settled beside Thalmiir, the two dwarves sharing a quiet moment amidst the chaos. “Do you ever wonder about the squirrels?” she mused, her gaze distant.

Thalmiir tilted his head. “The squirrels?”

She nodded. “They don’t behave like ordinary creatures. It’s as if they’re… people, transformed somehow.”

He pondered her words, stroking his beard thoughtfully. “Magic has its ways. Perhaps there’s more to this place than meets the eye.”

She offered a faint smile. “I suppose there’s always more to discover.”

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting hues of gold and crimson across the camp, the companions regrouped. Captain Thurman approached them once more, a newfound respect evident in his demeanor. “You’ve done us a service today,” he acknowledged. “Perhaps this could be the start of a mutually beneficial relationship.”

Thalmiir met his gaze steadily. “We’ve already commitments elsewhere. Our paths diverge here.”

Thurman inclined his head. “Very well. Safe travels to you all.”

With their business concluded, they returned to the Windwhisperer. The journey back to the riverboat was marked by a serene quiet, the events of the day lingering in their minds. Night enveloped them as they set sail, the stars reflecting off the water’s surface like scattered diamonds.

Below deck, Hat withdrew the five small shards he had collected earlier. Each piece glimmered with an ethereal light, remnants of the Orbim Vitalis. As Puppet watched intently, Hat delved into study, the hours slipping away as he unraveled the mysteries locked within the shards.

He discovered that each fragment held unique properties—a shield against disease, an attunement to nature, the power to cast subtle magics. The revelations filled Hat with a sense of purpose and curiosity, his mind alight with possibilities.

Morning dawned, and the Windwhisperer neared its destination. The roar of the Great Delimber Falls greeted them, a thunderous symphony that heralded their arrival at Secomber. The town sprawled along the riverbanks, a patchwork of structures rising in haphazard layers.

As they drew closer, the companions marveled at the sight. Ramshackle buildings clung to sturdy foundations, while towering constructs fashioned from repurposed riverboats loomed overhead. Bridges of questionable integrity connected the various levels, creating a labyrinthine network above and below.

Waer’dara’s eyes sparkled with intrigue as she observed the intricate web of ropes and pulleys that ascended the waterfall. “Fascinating,” she whispered, her fascination with the mechanisms evident.

On the opposite bank, banners fluttered in the breeze—the purple and green circlet of the Jade Diadem and the black and silver emblem of Operation Daybreak. The two factions vying for the Urn of Chauntea had made their presence known, their encampments bristling with activity.

The Windwhisperer docked amidst a cacophony of voices and the bustle of the crowded wharf. As the companions disembarked, a local called out to them with a sly grin. “Welcome to Secomber! Maybe you’re the ones who’ll find the urn!”

Bartholemeow exchanged a glance with his companions, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. “Perhaps we are,” he mused.

Thalmiir adjusted his pack, his gaze sweeping over the teeming streets. “Looks like our journey is just beginning.”

Pebblesong nodded, her eyes reflecting the excitement and uncertainty of what lay ahead. “A new adventure awaits.”

Bhakris stepped forward, resolute. “Then let’s not keep destiny waiting.”

Together, they moved forward into the heart of Secomber, the echoes of the waterfall mingling with the whispers of untold possibilities. The path before them was uncertain, but united, they were ready to face whatever challenges awaited in their quest for the Urn of Chauntea.

Session Notes

  • The session begins with the DM, Ben, providing a recap of the previous events:

    • The party arrived at the bandit camp to sell them a cart full of oats, which the bandits had placed a down payment on and desperately needed.
    • They learned about the bandits, their camp, a significant tree, and the squirrels in the area.
    • Entering the treasure cave occupied by a bear, the party attempted to reason with it, but combat ensued.
    • After defeating the bear, they extracted their payment from the bandit’s treasure hoard, skinned the bear, and butchered it for meat.

  • Inside the cave, Bartholemeow (Joe) notices that the bandits haven’t come to check on them despite the commotion.

    • He discusses his concern with Thalmiir (Luke) and considers whether the bandits might be plotting something.
    • The party jokes about various ideas, such as wearing the bear skin to pretend to be a bear when exiting the cave.
    • Hat (Dan) suggests having Waer’dara (Merideth) use her abilities to create a bear-spider combination to surprise the bandits.
    • Pebblesong (Brian) humorously suggests the idea of a floating bear carcass.

  • Puppet, Hat’s magical construct, is sent out of the cave to scout the situation outside.

    • Bhakris Edge (Mark) decides to accompany Puppet.
    • As they exit the cave, Captain Thurman appears surprised and asks if they are fleeing the bear.
    • Bhakris informs Thurman that they have completed the task and the bear is dead.
    • Thurman seems surprised by their success and inquires about their payment.
    • He notices they haven’t taken all the treasure from the cave and comments on their honesty.

  • The party proposes selling the bear meat to the bandits.

    • Bartholemeow suggests the idea, emphasizing that the meat is fresh and magically purified.
    • Thurman is unsure of the bear meat’s value but is interested due to their shortage of food.
    • After some negotiation, Thurman offers 100 gold for the meat.
    • He requests that they carry the meat out and tell everyone it was his idea to provide the feast.

  • The party prepares to bring the bear meat to the camp.

    • Waer’dara uses the levitate spell to make the bear carcass float.
    • Puppet assists by pushing the levitating bear, creating a surreal scene.
    • The floating bear carcass intrigues and entertains the bandits as it drips blood.
    • Captain Thurman announces a feast to the camp, taking credit for the idea.
    • The bandits are initially indifferent but become excited at the prospect of food, offering half-hearted cheers for Thurman.

  • Bartholemeow performs a storytelling session for the assembled bandits.

    • He tells an embellished version of their adventure with the bear, using minor illusions for visual effects.
    • The story highlights Pebblesong’s philosophical conversation with the bear and Thalmiir’s heroic actions.
    • Bartholemeow records the performance into his whisper jar.
    • The bandits are entertained, and some begin singing parts of his tale, particularly praising “Thalmiir’s thunder.”

  • Pebblesong observes the bandits and the squirrels.

    • She considers the possibility that the squirrels might be transformed people.
    • Discussing with Thalmiir, they speculate about the nature of the bandits and the squirrels, noting the general unhappiness in the camp.
    • Thalmiir reflects on the situation, agreeing that something is off.

  • Bhakris attempts to assist the wounded bandits.

    • He notices a cluster of tents where injured bandits are resting.
    • Bhakris offers them bear meat but realizes they are unable to cook it themselves.
    • He seeks out the camp cooks to ensure the wounded receive food.
    • Bhakris subtly tries to persuade the wounded bandits to abandon their life of banditry in favor of honest work.
    • His attempts at persuasion are met with indifference, and he senses that without a solid alternative, they won’t change their ways.

  • Hat sets up a makeshift stall to cook and sell bear meat.

    • Utilizing his cook’s utensils and an alchemy jug to produce wine, he offers cooked bear meat and drinks.
    • Initially undercharging, he adjusts his prices upon realizing the high demand and scarcity of food.
    • Hat serves several bandits, earning a modest profit.
    • Puppet assists Hat by acting as a waiter, adding to the novelty.

  • As the feast continues, the bandits become more animated.

    • The camp enjoys a rare moment of joy due to the abundance of food.
    • The bandits discuss preserving some of the meat and express appreciation for the party’s efforts.

  • The party prepares to leave the bandit camp and return to their boat.

    • Captain Thurman attempts to engage them in future dealings.
    • He hints at re-establishing a protection racket along the river and solicits their support.
    • Bhakris confronts Thurman about his dishonest intentions, referencing their previous hostile encounter.
    • Thalmiir firmly declines any partnership, emphasizing their disapproval of banditry.
    • The party makes it clear they are not interested in being part of Thurman’s schemes.

  • As they depart, the bandits sing the praises of the party.

    • They sing a song inspired by Bartholemeow’s storytelling, particularly highlighting “Thalmiir’s thunder.”
    • Bartholemeow is tasked with writing the catchy couplet that resonated with the bandits.

  • Returning to the boat, they are greeted by Dabsabah, who announces their arrival.

    • Captain Bramblewick inquires about the absence of the cart and oats.
    • Thalmiir explains that the bandits didn’t want to pay, and they resolved the situation.
    • The captain is satisfied and prepares to set sail promptly.

  • Bhakris proposes bringing some of the bandits aboard the ship.

    • He suggests offering them passage to Secomber to seek honest work.
    • Captain Bramblewick refuses, citing the inconvenience and potential risks.
    • Bhakris is disappointed but accepts the decision, feeling somewhat disillusioned with the captain.

  • The ship sets sail, continuing their journey towards Secomber.

    • Bartholemeow offers to entertain the captain and crew with the full story of their adventure.
    • He delivers an engaging performance, though the captain suspects some of it may be embellished.
    • The crew listens attentively, enjoying the tale during their voyage.

  • During the night, Hat notices Puppet acting independently.

    • Puppet is attempting to juggle five small shards from the Orbim Vitalis, which Hat had collected.
    • Concerned about the shards’ magical properties, Hat decides to study them.
    • He spends time examining each shard to discover their individual enchantments.

  • Hat uncovers the properties of the five shards:

    • First Shard: Grants immunity to disease when attuned.
    • Second Shard: Grants proficiency in the Nature skill when attuned.
    • Third Shard: Allows the bearer to cast the Druidcraft cantrip as an action when attuned.
    • Fourth Shard: Grants a +1 bonus to Armor Class when attuned.
    • Fifth Shard: Allows the bearer to cast Fog Cloud once per day when attuned.
    • Hat realizes that further study of the shards could reveal more about the Orbim Vitalis itself, potentially requiring access to a comprehensive library.

  • The following day, the ship approaches Secomber.

    • The party observes the Great Delimbiyr Falls, a magnificent 100-foot waterfall with a spinning waterwheel halfway up.
    • They notice a network of ropes and towers used to transport riverboats up the waterfall.
    • The town appears layered, with sturdy buildings at the base and progressively more makeshift structures built atop one another.
    • They see houses made from discarded materials, including old riverboats repurposed as dwellings.

  • As they near the docks, they encounter unusual scenes:

    • People stand atop posts emerging from the water, acting as dock hawkers.
    • These individuals call out to incoming ships, attempting to persuade them to dock at their respective spots by offering low fees and services.
    • Captain Bramblewick navigates past them, aiming for his intended docking location.

  • On the opposite side of the river, they notice more organized docks.

    • Two clusters of well-made docks are positioned under distinctive banners:
      • First Banner: Purple with a green circlet featuring a sparkling jewel.
      • Second Banner: Split horizontally with a black bottom half and a silver top half, displaying a half-sun symbol.
    • The party recognizes one of the ships docked under the purple banner as the party boat they encountered previously.
    • Through Thalmiir’s observations and Pebblesong’s insights, they deduce that these banners represent the two factions seeking the Urn of Chauntea:
      • The Jade Diadem (associated with the Dazzlebobs) under the purple banner.
      • Operation Daybreak under the black and silver banner.

  • Thalmiir considers informing the dockmaster about the bandit threat.

    • He discusses his intentions with Captain Bramblewick.
    • The captain agrees to introduce Thalmiir to the dockmaster after they unload the cargo, though he tempers expectations due to the town’s current priorities.

  • The Windwisper docks at Secomber on their chosen side of the river.

    • As they tie off, dock workers greet them, mentioning the Urn of Chauntea and welcoming them to the town.
    • The party notes the bustling activity and the apparent urgency surrounding the search for the urn.

  • The session concludes with the party having arrived at Secomber.

    • They stand ready to embark on the next chapter of their adventure.
    • The stage is set for them to interact with the factions seeking the urn and to pursue their own goals.