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Episode 13: The God Killers

You began in the cellars of Castle Grenwyrd, stood before Lesota, Endellion's Mother. Seemingly in shock, she automatically began to prepare bread and soup while Roose (the castle priest) introduced to Isolde, Eden's wife. Lesota took Endellion aside and briefly burst into tears telling her they had much to talk about but that she had better go and inform her brothers that she was home. You decided to split up. Dolly, Raidion, and I (tCntM) heading off to explore the castle whilst Kelnys went with Endellion as she reunited with her brother Kellin while she trained villagers in the use of a longbow. The others climbed the ramparts to the top of the tower at the southwest corner of the castle where they found Eden (eldest of the brothers) being guarded by Kylen (the youngest of the Grenwyrds) still resident in the castle. On telling them that their sister lived, it was immediately apparent that Eden had been aware all along, sparking anger from Kylen who thundered away to find her. Raidion took the opportunity to ask how he could best gain Endellion's confidence. Eden telling him that his sister would only respect actions, not words. Down at the training grounds, Endellion was painfully embraced by Kylen and greeted with a wry smile by Eden before the brothers went inside and you were reunited with one another outside at the castle gates. You were led up to Endellion's room, covered as it was in dust, and still full of her old belongings. Raidion and Endellion buried the hatchet after their set two in the tunnels before Jeremy Teaberry (valet to Eden) asked the party to meet with the Grenwyrd family in Riodhir and Iota's chambers. The reunion was complete, as Endellion was embraced by her final brother Torian. You shared stories of The Gloam, attempting to form a plan of action that would break their siege. Eventually you resolved that the party would journey through the tunnels arriving to flank the Gloam as the brothers attacked from the gate. A plan of action decided upon, Lesota once again took Endellion aside for an unfamiliar heart to heart. Despite her discomfort Lesota apologized for her daughter, offering explanation and context for the choices she made on her behalf (during a childhood in which mother and daughter had often felt distant). As recompense, she gifted Endellion her own family short sword of a life Lesota had wanted to escape, but realized now, her daughter had always craved. Back in Endellion's room, you shared stories of your families. Endellion reading a letter her father had left on her bed; written to the daughter he thought he'd lost. She was snapped out of her reverie by shouts from the battlements, where you joined the rest of the Grenwyrd family. In the field beyond the walls, fires had been lit. Dolly heard a message in her head as a masked woman delivered an offer: Leave with the wounded and surrender the castle. Her threat accompanied by the sounds of screaming from nearby buildings. Bolstered by the support of his sister, Eden refused to abandon the keep. The Gloam emissary then calling out to imply that there may be traitors in our midst, ending her threat with the words, "The Web is Wide." Dolly demanded to speak with you all and left the battlements. In a stable far from the burning buildings and the Grenwyrds, Dolly revealed she had been told to deliver the supplies to the Gloam and that the Web had allied itself with the cult. Knowing that to disobey orders was to risk everything, you resolved to strike out from the Web. Flies no more, you would fight for one another and for the survival of House Grenwyrd

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Previous Episode: Flies in the Ointment

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Dream of the Dragonborn

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> Step into the mind of a Dragonborn! In this special one-shot episode, join the team as they dive into the dreamscape of a snoozing Kelnys. But can Endellion, Raidion, Dolly, and I navigate the twisting turns of his imagination, or will they find themselves trapped in a nightmare?

> Join Natural Six as they explore the new 2024 Player's Handbook in this standalone and spoiler-free adventure! See their characters crafted using the latest rules, offering a sneak peek at the changes coming your way on September 17th.

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Episode 12: Flies in the Ointment

Last time you began in the Distau Woods on the borders of Mouse. Endellion bringing the party up to speed on the series of trials that awaited in the tunnels before you could enter the Grenwyrd Keep via the cellars. When the others questioned how she would have such knowledge, she told them that (rather than possessing any privileged information) she was merely a native of Mouse and had learned some things in her years living there. Not entirely satisfied, you settled down to rest. The night passing without event until Kelnys, alone in the dark, decided to investigate the deck of cards that Raidion carries. An attempt to take them silently from the Wood Elf's pack roused the trancing wizard but he allowed his companion to open the pouch and study the deck. Searing pain passed through the dragonborn as he began to see names appear on the cards before they faded again. By now the entire party were awake and looking on as Kelnys closed his eyes and attempted to attune to the deck as whispers and the sounds of water grow in his head. Next he spoke to the cards but the druid felt another surge of pain and (having received no answers) returned the deck to Raidion's pack. The next morning, Endellion led the party to the base of a great tree and (moving rocks aside) revealed a seam that ran through the center of the trunk and led to a spiral staircase. You all descended, entering a series of natural caves filled with the sounds of running water. Endellion led you through the caves and behind a waterfall to a space where the Grenwyrd children had made bunks for themselves in fissures in the rock. Once more, the others questioned Endellion of her knowledge of these caves but she remained steadfast in her refusal to entertain such inquiries. You reached a great door. Endellion using her dagger to open it before you entered a chamber that housed a great mass of red glowing rock covered in limb-sized holes. Upon approaching it I (TCNTM) realized that fierce heat was emanating from the rock. Dolly spotted letters carved into it reading: How much can you bear? How much can you sacrifice? Raidion placed his hand into one of the holes, enduring searing pain and choosing to take close to his max hp in damage, though a failed CON save caused him to lose consciousness. As he did, a hollow circle of flame appeared in the far wall. A section of it filling with fire as Raidion sacrificed himself. The rest of you all placed your hands into the rock. I (TCNTM) also falling unconscious as he was overwhelmed by the pain. With Dolly's final contribution, the flaming circle was completed. The glowing stone cooled as you gained access to the next chamber and you were able to revive Raidion and I. Within you found a stone grid on the floor of a narrow chamber. A single letter carved into each slab. After experimenting with various spellings, magic missiles and bouncing wildfire spirits, you eventually identified that a series of stalagmites and stalagtites in the far end could be lined up to reveal the series of letters 'ASATO' (As Strong As The Oak). Endellion (knowing that this was the first half of the Grenwyrd family motto) completed the phrase with 'AFATF' (As Free as the Forest). Stepping on the stones bearing these letters allowed you all to pass through the chamber; the far wall opening up as the puzzle was completed. In the third chamber, what appeared to have once been a trap (that would cover the intruder in bird seed and set wild birds on them) was rendered less difficult with the birds long since having died. A chamber beyond was different than those you had encountered before. A constructed room of mid-gray stone blocks. Then the far wall moved; a stone golem standing before you. You soon realized your attacks had little effect on the creature and that there seemed to be no way out of the chamber. A clutch use of Bestow Curse from Dolly prevented the golem from attacking. Attention turned to Endellion (the rest of the party reaching the conclusion that she was the "Disappeared Grenwyrd Sister". Despite the appeals of her companions, Endellion would not budge, continuing to wait for the golem to attack before she played any cards she may have. Still, Dolly, I, Raidion, and Kelnys continued to do all they could to convince Endellion to reveal the truth of her identity to the golem. Raidion attempting to used Hypnotic Gaze to make her more amenable to the idea. He failed, but Endellion (enraged by this act) told the stone golem that she is the family Grenwyrd. As the golem knelt and crumbled to dust, a passageway into the wine cellars of the Grenwyrd Keep was revealed. The party (tested by infighting and mistrust) approached a wooden door, hearing voices behind it. The door was thrown open by a woman wielding a dagger and holding a hound at the end of a leash. On seeing Endellion, the dog (named Duty) leapt up, a puppy again, and began to lick his former mistress' face. With Duty's paws on her shoulders, tail wagging with joy, Endellion keeps looking at her mother.

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Previous Episode: Trials of the Brothers

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See the characters designed by popular gaming personalities that went into the deck that Raidion cannot escape.

This short 3 minute video

is rife with potential spoilers for those with a keen eye and clever video editing skills.

Until now we had only known about Sam Lake making one of the cards. You might recognize names like Matthew Mercer, Anjali Bhimani, Neil Newbon (Astarion in Baldur's Gate 3) and Troy Baker (voice of Joel in The Last of Us). There's also gaming enthusiasts like Jane Douglas (from Outside Xbox) in the mix and teasing more to come.

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Episode 11: Trials of the Brothers

Last time you began dancing the night away in the Orange Tree Tavern. Kelnys was cutting shapes (as I (the character, not the me) tried to ascertain what strange poison was affecting his companions) before the Kobold slipped away to his bed. Raidion was diving deeper into his cups. Feeling invincible (as he joined Kelnys on the dancefloor) before a sudden, violent bout of vomiting signaled the end of his night. As Dolly helped Raidion upstairs to the privy, the elf passed out and Dolly took the opportunity to examine the deck of cards Raidion carries in his pack. As she did whispering voices surrounded her and filled her head before she asked, "What are you?" For a moment the whispers coalesced into a single word, but she couldn't ascertain if it was 'friend' or 'foe'. She replaced the cards in Raidion's pack and (with Kelnys' help) took the catatonic elf to bed. Downstairs Endellion nursed a drink hoping Derwin Grenwyrd would appear. Eventually she headed out into the street, bumping into him as he stumbled into some bins and they shared a drink in the Orange Tree before Endellion, too, headed to bed. The next morning, Kelnys, Endellion, and I (the character, not the me) headed to collect the supplies from the Council of Equals, while Raidion nursed a truly catastrophic hangover with Dolly (who wanted to keep a low profile having seen her description on Wanted posters across the city). Endellion, I, and Kelnys gained access to the Council building, where Barnaby informed them of his displeasure that they could not be found in the barracks where Trusk could have offered them lodging. The council were now in session, so Endellion hung back while the other two ventured in to retrieve the supplies. I and Kelnys (to their credit) did their very best. They attempted to assuage any doubts the council may have about their suitability for this mission. Ezra Silverkin II (a member of the council) continued to have his doubts. I was given a brief lesson in the concept of metaphors by a dragonborn (and showed everyone how fast he could run) before the supplies were fetched and they were on their way. Meanwhile Dolly and Raidion had been making their way out of the city until guards approached and asked Dolly to come in for questioning. After flashing the ring that showed she had the favor of Trusk, Dolly was able to turn the tables on the guards and gain an apology from them, promising to return for quesioning at a time of greater convenience. You were all reunited after I, Endellion and Kelnys made their way down to the Depths. Kelnys (spotting Vim clearly under arrest) being escorted to Baruun jail for questioning. Raidion thought it was time to get out of town. You hit the road, heading south towards Mouse before Kelnys spotted a cart heading towards you. Onboard was a gnome who Dolly recognized as Silas, but was going by the name Marv. He was heading to Baruun with his wife Alice, with their cart (loaded with the larger possessions). Silas and Dolly spoke of their past and he told Endellion of the fall of Mouse and The Gloam (shadow will flood group) that had gathered to lay siege to Castle Grenwyrd. You continued, making camp in the woods at night. Endellion read a letter (from the Bag of Holding) in which Riodhir Grenwyrd offered words of encouragement to his eldest son Eden. Raidion and I (TCnTM) asked Endellion more questions of her past, though she refused to offer any information. I (TCnTM) told the story of his tribe who disappeared suddenly as he was tracking a gnome through the hills near his home. The conversation turned to friendship with Endellion reluctant to admit that any friendship existed between herself and the rest of the group. Kelnys pivoted onto spoon carving, teaching the gang about spoons, growth and mindfulness. After a restful night, you journeyed yet further south. Happening upon an abandoned cart, piled high with family heirlooms and Dolly spotted a family of halflings hiding in the undergrowth. They were fleeing Mouse, but one of the wheels of their cart had shattered and they had been unable to journey towards Baruun in safety. You spent half a day repairing the wheel. Raidion gifting his necklace to the small halfling boy before they departed. You continued to walk towards Mouse. As night fell, you happened upon a tavern full of villagers making their way north. Among them was Paddy, a baker who Endellion recognized from her childhood. After you revealed your mission, Paddy offered you day-old pastries and sorted you out with a prime spot by the fire. Raidion gave the baker the key to Jesco's in Baruun and told him it was the perfect place to establish a business. When you woke the next morning, the villagers had a whip round for a few coins and brought you another bag of old pastries. You graciously declined the money, you graciously accepted the pastries, and continued your journey. Half a day from Mouse, you encountered a party on the road. Four cloaked figures flanking a family of orcs that dragged a hand cart. As you walked closer, Kelnys spotted the mother orc mouth the word "help". This information was passed on to Dolly and a questioning of these cloaked figures began. One human took the lead insisting they were all from Mouse and journeying north together for safety. After further probing and a little intimidation, the situation culminated in Raidion casting Magic Missile on the leader and Kelnys joining the attack. After a clutch use of Silvery Barbs from Dolly and an arrow to the cheek from Endellion, the combatants admitted to trying to extort the orcs and were stripped of their possessions and clothes, scurrying semi naked into the forest. At last you approached Mouse on the fringes of the Distal Woods. You made camp in the woods in preparation for the next stage of your journey and that's where we are now. Night is falling fast in these woods.

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Previous Episode: The Kindness of Strangers

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Episode 9: The Prisoner in the Attic

Last time we began in a plaza on The Crest, buildings blazing, flames flickering high into the winter night. I (the character, not the me) watched horrified as Grawnoth was stabbed and fell before his assailant disappeared in a curl of smoke. The kobold dropped to all fours and dashed towards the stricken Antiqua, passing Kelnys (Wildshape-d into a 'larger than average' black cat). As I reached Grawnoth, he smelled a mineral, metallic smell where the smoke from the assassin still lingered in the air. Brunhilda arrived and cradled the Antiqua's body, a healing potion doing nothing to bring the dwarf back. Soon Dolly, Endellion, and Kelnys (back in his true form) began to figure out an escape as I leapt up the walls of the plaza and tried to spot the diminutive assassin as they fled. He was met by upturned faces as those in The Deal watched flames bloody the sky. A group of guards headed up to fight the fire. As I returned with what he had learned, Dolly insisted that fleeing the scene was the best course of action. Meanwhile, Raidion was investigating the final at the end of the row (already burning, thanks to Endellion's efforts) he made his way inside, briefly battling with a pair of blood-sucking surges (D4 reference?) before (driven by growing whispers from his mysterious deck of cards) he attempted to use the deck as kindling, casting a fiery Chromatic Orb before the deck reflected the damage of the spell back at him. I (who had gone searching for Raidion so that the party could escape together) spotted the wizard as flames licked up his chest. The kobold leapt into action dampening the flames and dragging Raidion into the shadows. As Dolly, Kelnys, and Endellion scurried into Grawnoth's estate, I cast Silent Image to create a large ornamental plant pot, which obscured he and Raidion from the guards. They (Dolly, Kel, Endel) hurriedly arrived on the plaza as Brunhilda (still holding Grawnoth's body) gave orders to the guards. I created the sound of screaming from the far buildings allowing the party to sneak away. Wearing I's Cloak of Many Fashions Raidion attempted to pass as a guard but was pushed from pillar to post by Brunhilda and the other guards before he eventually made his way to join the others on the walkway. Together you fled The Crest as the sky burned and decided to head for the one place you felt you could hide until things blew over; Casper's hideout. On arriving, Endellion caused the wall to fade and you were struck by a familiar metallic smell. I recognized it as the aromas in the smoke after the disappearance of Grawnoth's assailant and as you descended the stairs, you were met by Medea. Scrawling in a book, her face streaked with blood, sat amongst the bodies of Casper, Juno and Goff. You battled with Medea in the cellar, Dolly forced to attack her companions (though Endellion restored the tiefling to her senses by slamming her head into a crate). I (falling for the first time before being brought back by Kelnys) and with the help of Calum the Wolf, a first successful use of Hypnotic Gaze (by Raidion), and an imaginative use of Medea's prized murder journal, you eventually bested the halfling. Studying the journal, Kelnys learned that Medea had been keeping Rasheed, a dwarf, captive in the apothecary. You searched the bodies of the dead, finding a set of Goggles of the Night, a Perfume of Bewitching and clutch of expired potions. This done, you settled down to take a rest before I (the character not the me) crucially took a dagger to the eyes of Medea. That is where we are now, fire still flickering in the grate. The bodies have been rolled up in bed rolls and pushed to one side. It is quiet. It is still. The blood staining the flagstones around you.

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Previous Episode: The Bodies and the Book

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Episode 10: The Kindness of Strangers

Last time we began in the aftermath of the fight with Medea. The bodies of Casper's former chapter wrapped in bedrolls in the corner of the basement of the abandoned apothecary. As you prepared to rest for the night, Kelnys made one last search of the bookshelves and discovered Juno's Spellbook among the potion bottles, allowing Raidion to add another wizard spell to his list. Dolly took Endellion to one side and they shared a hushed conversation as Kelnys, I and Raidion cleared away the debris of battle with Medea and prepared to sleep. As Endellion and Dolly returned to the group, you began to talk about family; Kelnys revealing that he had not seen his for many years, toying with a pendant around his neck as he did so. That night you slept among the bodies and awoke as Level 5 adventurers. The next morning you emerged into Baruun, the city suffused with rumor after the events of the past few days. I (the character, not the me) picked the lock that held the doors of Jesco's closed and you entered the abandoned apothecary. Kelnys found some coins in the till, though not very many, and slid a door across to reveal a room filled with Medea's possessions. Kelnys recovered his scimitar and I was gifted a set of (potentially gamebreaking) boots as Raidion sounded Endellion out regarding the possibility of a later shopping trip. You ascended a flight of stairs (Raidion being pushed down a few after Endellion debuted her goggles of the night) and opened a door at the top to reveal a chained figure. It was Rasheed, member of the Council of Equals. You tended to the dwarf and he told you how he had been attacked by Medea but had been kept alive forming a strange relationship with the halfling in the hope he could save her. Having been told of the death of Grawnoth, he was keen to return to his post in the council. After I had a brief existential crisis (after failing to fade the secret entrance to the basement), Raidion encountered Evandris (a nauseating lifestyle guru) you reunited to guide Rasheed towards The Crest and the Council building. As you ascended, you encountered Eleanora Obsidian (half-elven member of the council who recognized Rasheed and (torn between relief that he was safe and a desire to swiftly reunite him with Trusk and the others) tried to hurry the exhausted dwarf along). As Dolly insisted that she give Rasheed more time, Eleanora revealed that Lode (The Dwarven Capital) had fallen to a mask-wearing cult who called themselves The Gloam. As you hurried into the council building, you heard a furious argument from Grenwyrd's chambers before you were ushered in to see Trusk, who embraced Rasheed and told you more about The Gloam. They had also attacked Brack and were laying siege to the Grenwyrd estate (a fortress that guards the small town of Mouse). After some discussion, Trusk asked whether you might be able to deliver supplies to Mouse to help the Grenwyrd's break the siege. Despite the seriousness of the moment, Raidion couldn't help but notice a certain 'je ne sais quoi' between himself and the High Advocate. As you found a quiet room to discuss your next move, Raidion ruminated on what has passed between them and what might yet come to be. Having decided that you would transport the supplies, it was decided that Raidion would speak to Trusk alone. He entered the High Advocate's chamber freshly-musked and ready for whatever may come. After confirming that the newly dead would take on the task appointed to them, he made a series of attempts to connect with Trusk on a more emotional level before a successful Insight check literally revealed that he had woefully misread the situation. Leaving with as much dignity as he could muster, Raidion reported back to the group including news that Trusk had gifted them rings that showed that they were favored by the council and by her in particular. Endellion decided she wanted to see whoever was left in Grenwyrd's chambers and slipped inside for a private conversation. You headed to the orange tree, Kelnys spotting a wanted poster that described a pink-skinned tiefling that the guards wanted to bring in for questioning regarding a 'crime of great significance'. After arriving at the tavern, you got various levels of 'white girl wasted'. Raidion drinking increasingly esoteric wine, egged on by Salis (a self-indulgent sommellier sufficiently sozzled...). Endellion and Raidion went on a shopping spree with the elf buying necklaces for his companions while Dolly and I returned to the hiding place where you had stashed the 'Gloam' cloaks and masks before you entered the city. You reunited at the orange tree, Kelnys dancing the night away as Raidion presented his gifts. It is the night before, rather than the morning after. The night is spent in revelry. A little bit of relaxation after a tough few days.

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Previous Episode: The Prisoner in the Attic

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Episode 8: The Bodies and the Book

Last time you began at the Whispering Walker, Casper informing you that the Spider Prince had arrived in Baruun and was demanding an audience. Clearly shaken, he led you through the streets of The Deal as night began to fall. Ascending a stairway to The Crest and arriving at a large building on a quiet plaza. He escorted you into a room in which two figures were waiting. The Spinner (lieutenant of The Web who you first met on the night you fought the basilisk) and The Spider Prince himself. Clad in black robes with silver thread, his face obscured by a mask made of innumerable black gems. He questioned you on the events at the top of Mount Atria, toying with a silk bag on the table as you spoke. Apparently satisfied with your answers, the Prince moved his attention towards Raidion Thornbear, demanding to know of his family. When Raidian told him that he remembered, the Prince turned towards The Spinner telling him: "I think you're right, but I don't understand how." I (the character not the me) told the Prince of the orbs, the words "The Shadow Will Flood", and the blight that you found at the peak of the mountain. Kelnys spoke of the child mentioned by the voices in the orbs. With all your reports made, The Spinner took the floor and told you of a new mission. You were to burn down the five buildings that share a plaza with Grawnoth's residence. The Web has been financing the expansion of the city of Baruun and debts are owed. At this point, Raidion stepped forward telling the Spider Prince of Barabask's betrayal and stating his desire to kill the Elven Antiqua, should the opportunity ever present itself. He wished to speak privately with the Prince and the Spinner, but was summarily dismissed in this request. Dolly turned to leave before The Spinner called her back. She alone was to remain. The others shuffled out and could hear nothing before Dolly emerged, discussions having taken place. You headed towards the plaza in order to stake out the five buildings, passing a few drunk workers who you overheard speaking of a colleague, Vim, who was as yet unaccounted for. You split up and began to investigate. Raidion casting Disguise Self to take on the appearance of one of the drunk workers and happening to stumble upon Vim. A tiefling trying to sleep off a hangover in a pile of insulating fleece. A moving one act play followed and Vim eventually stumbled off with a belly full of booze and a heart full of hope, leaving Raidion with a set of keys he had pilfered from the tiefling's pockets. As Kelnys overheard some of the commotion, he tripped over a pile of building materials, setting off a series of unfortunate stealth checks suffered by the party, which gradually increased the attention of Grawnoth's guards. I (tCntM) managed to throw them off the scent with a feline use of Silent Image and a little persuasion. But Brunhilda and the guards were beginning to pay attention to the growing commotion in the plaza. After a few failed attempts to climb some trellis, Dolly started a fire at the base of one of the buildings and Kelnys summoned his Wildfire Spirit (in the form of a pine marten called Hank) to begin a blaze in another. Raidion Misty Stepped into an unoccupied building. I (tCntM) fell foul of a magical door knocker and Endellion enjoyed a less than ideal time in the darkness as she attempted to get to the farthest building and prepare it for ignition. Her fire started, Dolly feigned insouciance as she headed towards Grawnoth's estate. Brunhilda and the guards emerging as one of the buildings succumbed to the flames and collapsed. Dolly cast Suggestion on Brunhilda and told the captain of Grawnoth's guard to head to the building at the farthest end of the plaza where Endellion had succeeded in starting a fire. Meanwhile, Dolly began to plant seeds of fear into the mind of a guard, causing him to develop an aversion to a slightly larger than average black cat, which I (tCntM) had caused to appear earlier in the encounter. By now Raidion had set another building ablaze and he dashed out to see Brunhilda, telling her that Vim had gone crazy and had been declaring his desire to burn the buildings to the ground. By this point it was only the building nearest Grawnoth's estate that was free from flames. Kelnys soon saw to this and the whole plaza was engulfed in fire and smoke. As Brunhilda arrived at the final building, she spotted Endellion in the shadows and (flummoxed and flustered) the fighter could not give a convincing reason why she was there. Soon I (tCntM) interceded and managed to convince her to head back towards Grawnoth's estate with Endellion in tow. As they approached, Endellion and I (tCntM) saw a figure next to the gates. that led to Grawnoth's residence. I (tCntM) realized that it was Grawnoth himself emerging to inspect the blazing plaza where multiple buildings had now fallen to their foundations. As I (tCntM) looked on, a figure emerged from the shadows and plunged a knife into the Antiqua before disappearing in a whirl of smoke. As far as the rest of you are concerned, nothing has yet changed. Endellion, you have seen this figure slump to the ground against the gate post. You've seen an assailant disappear in a curl of smoke. I, you know who it was, you know this was Grawnoth. The flames are flicking higher, licking up the sides of the walls. The three remaining burning buildings are on the verge of collapse.

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Previous Episode: The Spider and the Flies

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Action Surge!

> Join the cast as they debrief after an extremely tense episode that started with a meeting with the Spider Prince, and only got more exciting from there. Through the flames, can they see a path forward for our heroes after losing one of their closest allies?

Harry's Favorite Part: (click)

Obviously the team's interaction with Brandon. Also, the moments of levity were an extra relief, considering many of the dramatic moments woven into the episode.

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RP (Rolly-Poley) Points

| Alex | Aoife | Ben | Doug | Hollie | | :------ | :------ | :------ | :------ | :------ | | 88 | 125 | 75 | 76 | 86 | | Totals | | 627 | 535 | 569 | 602 | 709 |

Dolly artwork by Connor (crpgoob)

The Glassworker

(Urdu: شیشہ گر, romanized: Sheesha Gar) is Pakistan's first hand-drawn animated feature film.

English Trailer

Urdu Trailer

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'Glassworker' filmmakers discuss production

article by Ramin Zahed

> "The poignant film tells the story of a father and son who run the finest glass workshop in a country loosely inspired by Pakistan. They find their world turned upside down when an army colonel and his young violinist daughter enter their lives."

> “The idea for the film came to me in early 2014,” Usman Riaz tells Animation Magazine. “I was fascinated by glassblowing and wanted to make something around this particular craft. I was 23 years old at the time. Initially, I planned for it to be a live-action movie, because animation seemed like such a distant dream, but my wife Mariam Paracha (art director on The Glassworker and Mano co-founder) said, ‘You love animation, Usman. This should be an animated movie!’ And I said, ‘Sure, why not? How hard can it really be?’ Well, I was just about to find out.”

> Soon after, Usman shared his plans with his cousin Khizer (Mano’s CEO), and together they decided to build an animation studio from the ground up to produce the movie. “The inception of the idea happened around 10 years ago,” Khizer says. “We set up in a small studio space after we raised $116,000 on Kickstarter in 2016. We finished the pilot animation and other Kickstarter rewards in early 2018. After shopping the project around, we were able to get creative consultant Geoffrey Wexler (of Studio Ghibli, Studio Ponoc and Kiyuki Inc.) and writer Moya O’Shea on board the same year. The script was completed in early 2019 and we started preproduction right after. The film was completed in the fall of 2023.”

> According to the Riazes, around 450 to 500 people worked on the movie. “Khizer, Mariam and I are partners at Mano,” says Usman. “I am very grateful we got to work with a lot of wonderful, talented people in Pakistan and internationally.”

> Usman storyboarded the entire film. “I drew each and every frame, like my heroes before me,” he tells us. “I needed to draw each frame in great detail to show the team exactly what I wanted. I believe that was the foundation for the film. I knew every single shot and had planned accordingly. I also animated on the film. It was all done traditionally, frame by frame, no ’tweening software was used. We wouldn’t even know how to use them if you gave them to us!”

> The cousins point out that the biggest challenge was undertaking two mammoth tasks at once. “We had to create an infrastructure for a functioning animation studio alongside actually producing an animated film,” says Khizer. Adds Usman, “Making a hand-drawn animated film is not easy anywhere in the world. We did it in Pakistan where we had no help, no guidance and no infrastructure for film or animation. We just had ourselves and our conviction.”

> Usman says he has been obsessed with animation since he was a young boy. “Animated movies and comic books inspired me to draw,” he shares. “There is something timeless about films that are made by hand. Four-year-old me would be very proud of what we have done!”

> The director says the works of Walt Disney have been a very special source of inspiration for him. “His personal works, the films that he directed, hold a special place in my heart,” he says. “That level of artistry has not been seen and will not be seen for a very long time. My biggest influence, however, is the work of Studio Ghibli and my heroes will always be Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. There is something special about their films that I cannot describe in words. I think it’s very obvious that my work draws a great deal from these amazing people.”

> Khizer says he personally loves the story of The Glassworker. “I really admire the way Usman weaved a love story during a time of war with the message that people endure no matter under what conditions they live,” he says. “Also, the animation and the background art are beautiful, and I am very proud of the quality we have been able to achieve. And the music — the score Usman and Carmine DiFlorio composed and José Carlos Campos produced — is brilliant.”

> Usman says he’s quite pleased with what he and his team were able to create. “I love the fact that we were able to pull it off, and that it looks decent. No one has done something like this in Pakistan for a very good reason — it’s impossible. We achieved something that no one out of our part of the world was able to do. And to have our first film premiere at Annecy as part of the Official Competition with some of the greatest animation studios and films in the world is truly special.” > He adds, “It was amazing to have the illustrious Manuel Cristobal (Wrinkles, Bunuel in the Labyrinth of the Turtles) join our project — his presence led the film to be chosen by Annecy to be a Work in Progress selection in 2022. He was an amazing partner and mentor to help us achieve our dream.”

> His cousin also feels like it’s all a bit surreal. “It’s still unbelievable for me, but I’m also excited for audiences to see it starting with Annecy in June and then Pakistan on July 26th,” says Khizer. “I’m hopeful for audiences across the world to see it, and we hope to have news regarding wider distribution soon.”

> Usman adds, “I honestly don’t know how I feel. I have dedicated a third of my life to this. I love this craft more than anything in the world. It was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. And I have done a lot of things: I have written and composed my own music; I have conducted orchestras; I have performed and spoken on the TED Main Stage and at conferences all over the world. Nothing has compared to this. I gave it my all. Now we will see what happens. Everything is in God’s hands now.”

This poem is not in the book shown. This was transcribed from an instagram post made on June 18, 2024.

--- Take your pick of politicians, out of touch so deeply. Who crave your vote to steer our boat jump into bed to sleep li- asing with corrupted frauds who desecrate their post. The parliamentary parasites who wank to Thatcher's ghost. What I really think is not politically correct. I'm sick of seeing sycophants whose job is to perfect The art of causing chasms and dissolving public unity. A poison, puerile, pestilence polluting our community. Where's the money skimmed from taxes getting siphoned for expenses? Where's the justice for your mates who commit criminal offenses? Where's the empathy for humans that don't look or act like you? What are all the citizens who are in poverty to do? Where are all the refugees who simply need our help to go? Just stick em on a barge or plane; maintain the status quo. Use them as an excuse for why we can't afford to heat The homes that we will never own, the food our kids can't eat. Pick the one who's gonna rule us with the minimum disruption. Who'll only break the records of malfeasance and corruption. The way that they are hollowing out Britain starts to grate. Taking try of this country giving back the right to hate Anyone who's black or brown disabled, queer, or working class. A woman or an immigrant, to them the blame will pass. If the people fight among ourselves, divided we will fall. When we look after each other and seek liberty for all A rising tide will lift all boats, do not let them distract Because the people have the power and it's time for us to act.

This isn't really TTRPG-related, but it's definitely being celebrated across the world.

It was one of those moments they put in movies where two undefeated teams play their hearts out and it comes down to the final rounds of the game because nobody is giving up.

Suryakumar Yadav made a play that will be on highlight reels for as long as the sport might exist.

Brief Summary

So 161 is the score of South Africa . They had lost 6 men getting that score. That's why it says 161-6 A team can lose a maximum of 10 players before they stop batting , or when 120 legal deliveries are bowled . Whichever comes first. SA wants the left number to be higher and right to be lower. India ,batting first scored 176 in 120 deliveries(First innings) . So SA needed 1 more to win the match in the second innings. So 177 to win of 120 deliveries. At this point SA has consumed 114 deliveries to score 161. That's why it says 16 of 6 required. 171 - 161 = 16 runs needed. 120 - 114 = 6 deliveries needed. If this ball went over the boundary line ,then SA score would be 167 -6 . 10 needed of 5 deliveries with a set batsmen. Very possible. But due to this unbelievable catch their score is now 161 - 7 They need 16 off 5 deliveries with a new batsman to come out . It's tough. The catch itself was insane . In cricket if a ball touches a fielder and the fielder touches the ropes ,it's considered 6 . So he had to stop the ball and break the contact before his body touches the boundary rope . Due to his momentum ,it was unavoidable to not touch the boundary. So he broke the contact with ball , then got back into the ground on the other side of the boundary and then re took the catch. This is considered out.

Episodes available on YouTube.

Episode 1: Big Uncle Energy

Sare Jahan Se Accha

Tarānah-e-Hindi

An Urdu language patriotic song written by poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal that became an anthem of opposition to the British Raj. Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian astronaut, employed the first line of the song in 1984 to describe to then prime minister Indira Gandhi how India appeared from outer space. In India, the text of the poem is often rendered in the Devanagari (based on Brahmi, developed in the 8th century) script of Hindi. English translation Better than the entire world, is our Hindustan, We are its nightingales, and it (is) our garden abode If we are in an alien place, the heart remains in the homeland, consider us too [to be] right there where our heart would be. That tallest mountain, that shade-sharer of the sky, It (is) our sentry, it (is) our watchman In its lap where frolic thousands of rivers, Whose vitality makes our garden the envy of Paradise. O the flowing waters of the Ganges, do you remember that day When our caravan first disembarked on your waterfront? Religion does not teach us to bear animosity among ourselves We are of Hind, our homeland is Hindustan. In a world in which ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome have all vanished Our own attributes (name and sign) live on today. There is something about our existence for it doesn't get wiped Even though, for centuries, the time-cycle of the world has been our enemy. Iqbal! We have no confidant in this world What does any one know of our hidden pain?

--- Welcome to Vehaar. We open on a bustling station full of commerce. The air is thick with all kinds of scents. You smell spices, arcane components, cow dung. Just about everything you can imagine, but more than anything, Ash, you smell a piece of home. A piece of a home you didn't know you had. As you step off the boat, pondering the large airship docked just above you with a massive balloon holding aloft the Sky Haveli (city) with a beautiful brand new paint job yet to be christened with its very first voyage. You wonder how quickly it could have carried you across the ocean. Unfortunately such pursuits are out of your economic range. You ponder the leaky tub from the developing nation you're from that brought you here, and you take in your first Vehaarian scene. You've heard that there is an "uncle's brother's cousin" friend who is supposed to meet you here on the platform. As you gaze around, you see crates of spices, leather, fabric, spellcasting components all being trucked around and letting off little plumes of smoke as they do. So you smell a faint ammonia smell from a gentleman next to you. A tiefling with buffalo horns. He gruffly nudges you out of the way, rolling a barrel ahead of him. People rushing past each other to go about their business. Throngs of humanity giving you sidelong looks, not necessarily because of the way that you're dressed, but mostly because you are standing very much in the way. You don't notice anyone you're looking for on the platform, but you do notice a small goblin with a bushy Tom Selleck moustache, long hair, a smart conductor-style hat, green clothes, and a long woven shawl wrapped unceremoniously around his neck. He comes over and goes, "Yeah. Take a luggage." He just starts calmly grabbing your luggage, stacking it up. He takes all of it; stacks it up high on his shoulders and on his head, taking a couple of your suitcases in his hands. He then wanders into the crowd. You're able to push your way past all of the moving people and you manage to find the small goblin again, still walking at a determined clip with your luggage. Meanwhile, on the other side of the platform, a covered cart pulls up outside, led by two very large, very wooly, cloven-hooved animals (somewhat resembling water buffalo, but with a thick curly mat of hair falling over the eyes). You recognize these beasts, Auntie, because this is your friend Bolinder's cart. I shouldn't say friend, maybe nephew. He's a young gentleman, married now (to a lovely girl who makes perfectly round roti), unlike when you first met him. You are rather fond of her Chai-making skills. You've heard that your friend Marka, is receiving someone at the station today and needs a rather large vessel within which to cart all of their luggage. So of course you know Balwinder (sitting unceremoniously in the driver's seat) would be more than happy to bring you. He studies both of the beasts (and the familiar scents of sandalwood and elechi) and they actually do smell as good as a beast of burden can smell. They have large gentle eyes and three tails that switch restlessly. Their double-sets of horns shaking impatiently. You're sitting here with Sitara, waiting for this man and Markha to come out. The back of the cart you're sitting in has windows that are adorned with different color fabrics (not unlike the ones in the studio). Sunlight streams in through one and outside it is a beautiful Vehaarian day. Absolutely gorgeous. Maybe a little too hot, but you are in the coastal region, so there is a nice cool breeze kicking up and coming in gently through the window. This is Laddoo Auntie. Laddoo Auntie is a bit of a stark contrast to Sitara.

Episode 20: Everyone Dies Eating Mushrooms

Four adventurers find themselves transported to the Fae Wild. Can they uncover its mysteries before the agents of evil do their worst? No.

I believe it was the poet, Robert Frost, who said, "In three words, I can sum up everything I've learned about life. It goes on."

DM, Mother Frost - Jon Ciccolini Nigel - Satyr - Matthew Lillard Baroth Kruuncith (Dragonborn Fighter), Apprentice("You")/Rabbit - Jonah Ray Gelbin Rakankrak (Hill Dwarf Cleric) - Lou Wilson Inis (Human Cleric) - Aabria Iyengar Westleigh Fezzeroth (Firbold Wizard) - Patton Oswalt

The last you all remember, you were asleep in your beds, suffering from a restless sleep. But now you find yourselves in a dark, snowy wood in a clearing. Within this clearing, you see the light of a campfire. Sitting at the fire, wrapped in furs, is an ancient hobgoblin woman playing a woodwind instrument. Listening to her play are a collection of forest animals sitting in an arc around her; rabbits, deer, owls, mice, all sitting around. As she plays, the fir trees themselves seem to sway to the sound of her music. As you listen, you have a slight sense of paranoia running through you. As you stand and look around, you see these others standing beside you in the clearing.

Highlights

• 15:30 Baroth Kruuncith's sick flute solo
• 18:18 Nat 1 by Jonah turns him into a rabbit
• 25:13 Encore flute solo
• 29:34 A satyr is discovered.
• 31:21 BBEG
• 35:31 Fan Art Moment Bunny Riding the Flute as it's fired at the dragon.
• 38:45 Nigel the satyr hopping through the woods Runnin' into heroes, doin' what he could

Episode 19: Everyone Dies at a Resurrection

Four family members try to raise a lost loved one. Can they get out of their deal with the demon lord and save their own souls? No.

I believe it was the Roman poet Virgil who said, "The can conquer who believe they can."

DM, Marcus (Orcus) - Ify Nwadiwe Stuart the Fridge - Bill Rehor Aella Dewdrop (Halfling Bard) - Krystina Arielle Fay-Lor Swift (Wood Elf Bard) - Mal Blum Junior (Mountain Dwarf Cleric) - Matthew Lillard Tildred "Tilly" (Mountain Dwarf Bard) - Kelen Coleman

In a cottage, in a forest, you all gather. You are all coming in with a dish. It's become a monthy gathering between adopted siblings. You have lost your father two years ago. Your father was a man of money. Y'all were used to the life of plush rich people things. Because of one unsigned will, y'all are all broke. Out of all of the children, we all know that one of you are taking it the hardest. There's a knock at the door. When you open the door, you know it's someone you invited. Seeing as Tilly has been having such a tough time, you wanted to introduce someone to her that she might like. She does not like. Tilly instead suggests a resurrection, which Junior immediately rejects as a breach of his holy vows. She goes into her back and pulls out something. When she was back in town, she met this salesman who had this trinket from Vassa (Vassa is a place up north that you might have heard had some demon issues) and said it could make her dreams come true and bring back someone from the dead. When Tilly taps the stick on the ground it starts to shake and light up. Black smoke and flames start to spurt out of the skull. This is confusing to you becaus the person who sold it to you said that an angel was going to come out and allow you to bring your dad back to life. No one can see anything through the smoke and then, in an instant, it disappears from the room, and standing before you is something like an angel. It has wings, it's big, burly. You can't see its face; it's covered. The skull stares down at you and says, "Oh, Zingy, were you able to hold off the dragon's bane?" He, then, looks at all four of you. "Why did you summon me?"

Highlights

• 25:35 BBEG
• 44:33 Matthew reveals his own father's terminal state and his gratitude for being able to process that emotion with a silly game and friends around a table.
• 47:12 Krystina:"D&D is actually very healing. We all have different things, but the thing that always brings us back to the table and helps us to relate to each other is that human element:
  • trauma
  • feelings we didn't know we had
  • to see ourselves use the masks to kind of see behind the mask of who we are
  • and to feel free to process a lot of things that we don't get to

and I'm grateful that we could all share this moment. It is a very real moment. It is a very honest moment. I like to do this thing with my kids and we're going to do it right now. Everybody stop and we're gonna take two deep breaths and we're gonna move forward." breath "One, two three." breath "Remember, life's gonna life, but all we can do is live it."

Episode 18: Everyone Dies in Wildspace

Four intrepid spelljammers come across a derelict ship floating in Wildspace. Can they uncover its mysteries before a sinister evil destroys them all? No.

I believe it was the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus who said, "The greater the difficulty, the more the glory in surmounting it."

DM - Jon Ciccolini Balloon - Bill Rehor Daldagga (Giff Fighter) - Ify Nwadiwe Delaware Jones (Giff Monk) - Matthew Lillard Joey Jeff Jimmy (Giff Fighter) - Noura Ibrahim Findelin Sploo (Giff Bard) - Lou Wilson

We find ourselves sailing through the airless void known aa Wildspace. You are all crew on the deck of a Bombard spelljamming ship. Bombards are usually built (and "sailed") by Giff (tall, broad-shouldered humanoid with hippo-like features. The primary retrieval team for your ship has recently boarded a derelict ship that you have found out in Wildspace. There's something strange going on with this derelict ship. It's another Bombard garishly painted in red and yellow stripes. The sails are a patchwork quilt of different fabrics and colors in strange patterns. Your primary retrieval team has not returned. The captain of your ship, Joe Mariner, tells you that you are up next. You're the secondary retrieval team. Joe Mariner:"I need you to go onto that ship and find out what has happened to your fellow crew members." There's a gangplank connecting these two ships. The four of you could cross over to this other bombard. Findelin Sploo's singing is interrupted as one of the first retrieval team comes stumbling off of the derelict ship ad over the gangplank. He falls in the middle and starts crawling in your direction. He looks up at you and says, "The 'Squeakers'. Beware." You board the derelict ship and descend below deck in search of your missing crew members. As you walk down the companionway and start looking in some of the different quarters, you notice something right away. There's some sort of corrosive, ichor clinging to the walls, in pools on he floor as you move about. You find the captain's quarters. Inside something stands out to you: a large three-foot-square jack-in-the-box with a winch on the side, painted in eerie, multicolored designs. On the front, painted in an arc, it says,

"Open me for a thrill"

Highlights

• 10:35 Findelin Sploo sings: There once was a time where I was on a ship. There were men attempting to take over the ship. I said 'No! This is my ship! You will not have it! You will not take it from me, Findelin Sploo!' Then I took the ship and I turned the wheel, so the ship was put down, and I crashed the ship. Most of the crew died, but I survived. It was me, Findelin Sploo!
• 16:43 "I, Delaware Jones, bequeath my gift medal to none of you!"
• 17:50 Ballet
• 24:00 Placebo healing
• 29:00 The first team is found stuck in space taffy and there are some normal-sized space hamsters nearby. Space taffy can be broken down with oil and Delaware Jones brought gallons.
• 30:01 You had to lick the space taffy. Make a CON save.
• 36:05 Scott Passarella channels John Williams
• 46:08 The last song of Findelin Sploo: They were four second choices but they acted like one. So they went over to the boat, and there was a balloon. He was creepy as hell, so we cut him in half. Then they saved them, their poor crew members and made sure they were safe. And they stared down the danger and fought til the end because they were The Secondary Retrieval Team! The Secondary Retrieval Team!

Episodes and other media available on YouTube and Twitch

Episode 7: The Spider and the Flies

We began as Endellion listened in on the scenes unfolding around the jail complex. Despite the cacophony and chaos, she decided to return to Casper's hideout, trusting that her companions would succeed in breaking out Medea. Having arrived back at Casper's and trying unsuccessfully to coax conversation from Goff, she warmed herself by the fire. Meanwhile the others were up to their knees in wastewater in a rancid reservoir beyond the city walls. They sought out a nearby well and some clean clothes to regain a little dignity, though I had "gone into his shell" after his struggles during the breakout. The worst of the filth removed, Kelnys, Dolly, Raidion and "I" (the character not the me) re-entered the city, bought some ill-advised mystery meat and returned to the hideout. Once there, you washed, rested and ate. Raidion took the opportunity to interrogate Dolly on her connection to the prisoner, Indy, and the truth of her past. They shared a little of their lives before resolving to try to trust one another as Kelnys secretly listened in. Casper attuned Endellion to the gem that allowed entrance to the hideout and they shared a secret conversation which I shan't spoil for players who weren't present (so if you want want to find out about that go back and listen to the previous episode). Endellion brought "I" out of his funk with an elaborate ruse to convince him he was capable of controlling the gem. As the others slept, Kelnys spied Radion placing something into Dolly's pack. When you woke the next morning, Raidion (full of apologies for his previous impulsiveness) asked the rest of the party to trust him and to follow along with his plan to speak to Grawnoth. It was now that Kelnys spoke up regarding Raidion's actions in the night, but a search of Dolly's bag revealed nothing. Raidion removed a leather pouch from his pack containing a deck of cards. I reached out to touch it and felt a jolt of pain in his head, hearing whispers coming from the deck. Raidion told the others that the cards called to him and that he feared using them, though (at Kelnys' request) he removed the deck from the leather back and you observed that patterns of mountains, thorns and black water on the cards matched patterns in the Palace of The Virtuous. With the deck carefully placed back in its leather bag, you headed to The Crest (the highest level of Baruun) still partially under construction. There, you made your way to Grawnoth's estate where Brunhilda (captain of his guard) led you to his chambers. Propped up in bed you found Grawnoth unnaturally aged since you last saw him at the peak of Mount Atria. You told him of Barabask's betrayal and Jasmee's wisdom. Horrified, he told you the truth of the world: that mortals were first bred as soldiers in The Divine War and that the gods placed some of their own power into these mortals, and as their numbers grew, they drained more and more divine power from the gods. Realizing that the collective power of mortality now outweighed that of the divine, The Virtuous, Vile, and Wild agreed a truce; creating three separate planes of existence (Reliquiae, The Fae Wild and The Shadowfell) so that mortality could never unite and destroy those that made them. Endellion told Grawnoth of the voices in the orbs and the words "The Shadow Will Flood". Showing him the mask, you you'd taken from the group in the forest, Grawnoth knew nothing of the words, nor "the child" mentioned by the voices in the orbs, though he speculated that the forest group may be affiliated with The Vile and that this child of a god could hae been the reason that the powers of The Virtuous faded suddenly a century ago. Perhaps there is a new demigod. He also revealed that the Antiqua had tied their lives to that of their deity (ie. with The Virtuous dead, the Antiqua's powers would diminish and they would die. Danily the halfling cleric of Persephone had already fallen. Grawnoth planned on telling the Council of Equals the truth in a few days once he had recovered his strength. Raidion showed him the deck of cards and though Grawnoth didn't recognize them, he could sense great magic coming from them. You then asked him where to find the other Antiqua and he told that they would have returned to their respective capitals with the exception of Parvus who would be at The Sanctum (the seat of dragonborn power). Grawnoth then told "I" that he did not think that Themself was responsible for the deaths of the other Virtuous and that they may well have sought refuge in The Old Dark (a semi-mythical place in kobold culture said to be the place where they first came into being). Though Grawnoth could not tell you where to find The Old Dark, he thought Parvus would know. Led by Raidion, you asked to be allowed to go to the Council of Equals yourselves and to warn them of the coming danger, fearing that Grawnoth's condition would not improve that that he (as Danilo had) would succumb to death. Grawnoth was (at first) reluctant to do so, fearing Raidion's impulsiveness, though eventually he agreed and sent you off with a letter than declared that you spoke with his voice and in his name. You made your way to the Council of Equals and gained access to the council building, having left your weapons at the gate (though Endellion and "I" managed to hide a dagger and thieves' tools about their persons). Endellion was keen to keep her head down throughout and spotted a red-haired, mustachioed man entering a chamber as you were led to see Trusk Moore, High Advocate of Baruun and leader of the Council of Equals. Dolly recognized this man to be Riodhir Grenweird, the Reeve of a small town called Mouse. Once inside Trusk's chambers, Dolly told her of the group in the forest and the threats made upon her life. She seemed relatively unconcerned, though revealed that she had already tightened security since the disappearance of a member of the council, the dwarf Rashiid. Then Raidion played the hits and told Trusk that the gods were dead. Blindsided and unwilling to accept this, she stormed from the the chamber to see Grawnoth herself. As you followed, Dolly went to open the door through wich she had seen Riodhr Grēnweard disappear before Endellion stopped her, insisting that 'it's not where we need to go". Skeptical, Dolly agreed, but told Endellion that a conversation would be required down the line. You reclaimed your weapons and headed back to Grawnoth's residence, where you waited until Trusk emerged after long discussions with the Antiqua. She was now accepting of the reality of the situation and returned to the council chambers to inform them. Raidion pressed Endellion on her actions outside Grēnweard's chamber, though got short shrift. You headed to the Orange Tree Tavern for a drink to touch base and take the edge off, but after Endellion said she heard a voice within, she suggested a different location. you decamped to the Wise Walker where Dolly and Endellion studied one another in silence before Casper burst in with news.

The Spider Prince wants to see you.

---

Previous Episode: Hot Heads and Fast Words

YouTube VoD

Alternate Frontend VoD

Episode 17: Everyone Dies Near a Hole

Natures greatest monstrosity has awoken. Can four novice adventurers stand in its way? No.

I believe it was the Bohemian novelist Franz Kafka who said: "The meaning of life is that it stops."

DM - Jason Azevedo Apprentice to the Great Wizard Steve - Bill Rehor Old Tammy - Matthew Lillard Chrissy (Changeling Fighter) - Deborah Ann Woll Iggy Bird (Aarakocra Ranger) - Clare Grant Tomas Bizzbear (Half-Orc Ranger) - Sean Gunn Vesuvia (High Elf Sorceror) - Danielle Perez

The first thing you feel is the warmth of the sun on your faces. You smell the sweet scent of stale mead, the braying of farm animals, and birds singing outside the window of the Happy Hummingbird Tavern. You sit in the tavern because the day before, in this quaint village of Meadowbrook, you completed your first quest. As you sit and enjoy your beverages (warm honey mead, sweet wine, perhaps some ale) and a collection of meats and cheeses, you hear what sounds like a slight rumble. You watch as your cups, your mugs on the table, shake slightly. The liquid in them just kind of ripples a little bit. You continue your conversation until again, just a little tremor occurs throughout the tavern You're alone in this tavern (other than the barkeep) and the barkeep starts to look around, and looks a little confuse, and looks at you all and says, "D-d-did you feel that?" A Mage's apprentice shows up and heads directly for the group. Steve's apprentice:"I bring you a dire warning, but some hope. You see, there is a magic spell that can take an entire town and move it into a pocket dimension, just long enough for this monstrous beast to run through, at which time the town can be redistributed back where it came from and, be totally unharmed. A great wizard in Bumbleflux was preparing this spell...but unfortunately he ran out of time, and has been crushed along with everyone else in Bumbleflux. But in this case, we have an even better wizard, my master Steve. He knows this same spell and is preparing it as we speak. But we're going to run out of time. If you could slow it down for just a moment, it would be enough to cast the spell and save your town and your loved ones. You would be heroes. Would you take on this mighty task?"

Highlights

• 13:11 Bag of Magic Items Contents:
  • Wand of Wonder
  • A Bag of Beans
  • An Immovable Rod
  • Nolzur's Marvelous Pigments
• 17:06 Iggy Bird:"Immovable cow! Rawk!"
• 18:50 The wisest villager, Old Tammy
• 25:55 BBEG

(click to reveal)

Muthafuggin TARRASQUE!!1!

• 33:45 Dainty changeling gets jacked "Chrissy's ready to kill some shit."
• 43:27 Fan Art Moment Tomas' skeleton hanging from the Immovable Rod
• 44:33 The Poem of Cat Team 6 Iggy Bird with the brightest bluest feathers drew the most bravest holes of all the birds who wear leathers. He may not have been much for most of his life. But when it counted, he was just enough. Vesuvia tried to hit him with an acid splash and went bust. There once was a fighter named Chrissy. She wasn't at all very prissy. She once saved a cat, but not just that... She also saved a city.

Episode 16: Everyone Dies at the Temple of Lathander

Tonight, four criminals attempt a daring heist. Can they steal enough gold to save their own skins? No.

I believe it was the famous Indian Revolutionary Mahatma Ghandi who said: "Learn as if you will live forever..."

DM - Jared Logan Priest of Lathander - Bill Rehor Orphan - Ross Bryant Alister (Gnome Rogue) - Matthew Lillard Juniper Sands (Half-Elf Rogue) - Katie Wilson Knickknack (Tiefling Rogue) - Luis Carazo Kruman (Gnome Rogue) - Skeet Ulrich

The scene: Waterdeep. The jewel of the Sword Coast. A massive, sprawling city of spires and turrets and minarets? You are in the castle ward near Castle Waterdeep. This is a "high-end" area of the city. There are many lampposts. You are looking at the Spires of Mourning. They are the temple of the god Lathander, a god of good and goodness. But your characters are all evil. The sun is setting on Waterdeep. A light rain is falling. From one of the lampposts, there is a serpent coiled around it and it has a pair of dirty wings. You know that you are under the watchful eye of the Zentarum. Cut back to 7 hours earlier. You're deep inside one of the Zentarum's many safehouses, here in Waterdeep. They're located in places you'd never expect them to be located. This one is behind a nice restaurant that does an excellent scone. You're all enjoying delicious scones. "Would everyone stop talking about the scones?" This, of course is the voice of Argor Vuun, a name that sounds made up. He has a lot of rings and he has one of those very sharp, little goatees. He's got one eye that's red and one eye that's blue. Coiled around his wrist, he has the aforementioned serpent, his pet. He reaches down and pulls up a cockroach out of a small box that he keeps for keeping cockroaches in...and he feeds the cockroach to the serpent. He looks at you and he says, "What do you all have to say for yourselves? You shouldn't be making jokes, you all owe the Zentarum (Faerun's notorious criminal organization). Within the next seven hours or so, I want you all to go to the Spires of Mourning, in the castle ward. There inside the Temple of Lathander, is a very powerful and sacred artifact: it is a belt. It's a belt that ties up your private parts so that nothing sketchy goes on. It doesn't matter why I want it. You will know it because it glows with a holy light. and it perfectly encapsulates the glory of Lathander. You'll find it in the Sanctorium. Beyond the Great Hall. I want you to bring it back within 24 hours or your lives are forfeit!" He slowly slinks back into the shadows, even though it's a small room and he doesn't really have anywhere to go. It is now seven hours later and you're back on the streets of Waterdeep. Ahead of you is a pair of huge oaken keep doors. In front of those doors are the soldiers of light, Lathander's sacred crusaders. They're standing with their hugs swords at their hips. How do you intend to get inside the Spire of Mourning?

Highlights

• 22:59 Epic booming voice sound FX
• 25:10 Thumb assist
• 29:15 The prayer to Lathander
• 31:09 BBEG