Shifting Paradigm is a real, live D&D campaign, recorded at the table by Ben and rendered by Threadfall into a chronicle you can read like a book. The chapters, cast, and lore below are drawn entirely from how the game was actually played.
The party learned that Skadraschan commands a second vessel crewed and ready at Rumblecusp, and that Jack—revealed to be a sapphire dragon—has allied with them against their enemies. They discovered Cassara, an ancient white dragon of thousands of years, likely leads the House of Five, and received a divine warning from the Moonweaver of chaos looming with support promised from other patrons. The party embarked on a covert underwater approach to Rumblecusp under cover of darkness, positioning themselves to strike Skadraschan's forces before reinforcements from the Adjacency could arrive.
The party committed to a three-day sea voyage to Rumblecusp, where Captain Forrest's ship and crew awaited orders from Skadraschan, choosing to strike before reinforcements from the Adjacency could arrive.
Marnok communed with Tho'Maeus, who finally spoke telepathically in Draconic and delivered three cryptic concepts: "3 questions," "commune," and a warning to be extremely careful [1]. Viktorin recognized the pattern immediately — Tho'Maeus was operating under the constraints of a divine Commune spell, limiting his answers to three per session. The blade's caution hung heavy as the party began planning their next moves.
Mervyn speed-read through a Book of Dragons, searching for weaknesses in purple dragons and uncovering references to gemstone dragons, particularly amethyst varieties, though detailed information remained scarce. Kithri received a scroll from Perisire via her glowing chest, confirming supplies had been received and that Perisire and Dudger were still watching for Archie. The party debated recruiting allies — Niren, Faden Ilmaris, Meereen, Yusra — and whether to warn them about Cindradel's approaching land army.
Jaxxeth Fire arrived at the Withered Bird Inn and proposed his usual game of traded drinks and information. The party accepted, and Jack revealed critical intelligence: Skadraschan remained in Nicodranas with his ship, but another vessel under his control sat docked at Rumblecusp in the Mervyn Archipelago, crewed and awaiting orders [2]. Jack then abandoned his drunken persona entirely, revealing himself to be a sapphire dragon operating undercover, and proposed a stealth mission to thin Skadraschan's forces before a direct confrontation. The party shared their own intelligence in return — they had killed the Dark Sun, met Rathacris, and learned that Cassara, an ancient white dragon of thousands of years, likely led the House of Five [3].
The party recruited Phaedra via Sending spell, purchased healing potions from Delilah's shop, and set sail that evening from Nicodranas aboard Jack's vessel. The journey to Rumblecusp would take three days. During the voyage, Viktorin entered a meditative void and encountered the Moonweaver, who warned of chaos looming and promised that other divine patrons stood ready to support Viktorin beyond their previous one [4]. Kithri brought Dook aboard, and Phaedra — initially wary of the white wolf — gradually accepted his presence.
As darkness fell on the third day, Jack doused the ship's lamps and positioned the vessel offshore. The party ritually cast water breathing and dove into the shallow waters, swimming toward Rumblecusp. A massive skull-shaped lair loomed ahead, its glowing eye sockets illuminating the approach, with Captain Forrest's double-masted ship docked nearby alongside a small dinghy [5]. The party began their underwater advance toward the island as moonlight glinted off the waves above.
The party infiltrated Rumblecusp's skull lair and defeated the dockside guards, then ascended to confront Captain Phorus and Seamus Grond in a fortified tavern where combat erupted after Phaedra revealed their mission to eliminate those working for Scarbosa. During the engagement, a mysterious stone-footed assassin named Vodea Phorus appeared and engaged the party directly, poisoning Viktorin and restraining Kithri with stone magic before the battle continued into its fifth round with no resolution.
The party descended beneath the waves and infiltrated Rumblecusp's skull-shaped lair, ambushing the dockside guards and blasting their way upward—only to find Captain Phorus and Seamus Grond waiting for them in a fortified tavern. When Phaedra revealed the party's true mission, Grond reached for his warhammer, and the second battle erupted with walls of fire and a mysterious stone-footed assassin named Vodea Phorus.
The party cast Water Breathing aboard Jack Sapphire's ship and plunged into the ocean, descending gradually through darkness toward Rumblecusp [1]. Those with darkvision navigated through shades of gray while others moved blind. Marnok and Kithri led successful survival checks with Mervyn's Flash of Genius, guiding the group toward the island as the seafloor rose and dock posts emerged from the seabed ahead.
Litton surfaced like a crocodile to scout the shore and spotted a massive skull-shaped cave carved into the rock face, its eye sockets glowing like windows and its mouth opening over the docks below. Marnok used his superior vision to identify the two-masted ship moored on the left as the Stormsurger, Captain Phorus's vessel, and detected humanoid movement within the skull cave itself [2]. Phaedra confirmed Phorus worked for Ska'Dreshan. The party debated stealing the ship but decided against it, opting instead to split into aquatic and land teams for a coordinated assault. Kithri prepared to cast Water Walk to allow the land team to approach across the surface while positioning herself inside the cave mouth for support.
The party surfaced onto the water via Water Walk and gained surprise against the guards stationed at the docks—two on the left and one on the right manning a mounted heavy crossbow. Marnok fired an arrow that struck the guard atop the crossbow. Mervyn cast Reduce on the heavy crossbow itself, shrinking it and causing the guard to fall from his perch. Kithri used Thorn Whip to drag the prone guard into the water, where he began struggling to swim. Litton attempted to grapple and throw a second guard but the enemy hooked his leg around Litton's to resist. Phaedra drew a rifle and fired, her shot improved by Kithri's reaction. Viktorin cast Toll the Dead in the surprise round.
Four additional enemies arrived as combat proper began. The enemies engaged with rapiers and pistols, striking Litton, Marnok, and Phaedra multiple times. Viktorin cast a protective sphere that granted temporary hit points to allies, then cast Shield of Faith on Litton to bolster his armor class. Phaedra cast Scorching Ray, striking two enemies with fire damage. Mervyn cast Ray of Sickness, dealing poison damage, then used finger guns against another enemy. Kithri cast Erupting Earth, killing one enemy combatant and wounding several others with a fountain of churned stone [3]. Litton retrieved his Comet Ballista and fired, triggering Heilig Comets and killing two enemies with the blast. Marnok engaged with Hail of Thorns, killing his initial target and damaging an adjacent enemy through the spell's spreading effect.
Kithri cast Hold Person, paralyzing two enemies, and dragged one paralyzed foe into the water with Thorn Whip. Litton attacked with his runic battle axe, dealing damage across multiple strikes. Marnok fired arrows at paralyzed opponents, gaining advantage from their incapacitated state. Viktorin cast Guiding Bolt. Mervyn cast Ray of Sickness at paralyzed enemies with advantage. Marnok fired the final arrow, striking the last enemy in the eye socket and watching it dissolve into nothing as the enemy fell. An eerie silence settled over the docks. The party searched the area and collected approximately ten gold, nine pistols with black powder ammunition, and multiple rapiers from the bodies.
Marnok disabled the large crossbow by cutting its bowstring while the party explored the cleared structure. Kithri sampled beer from storage barrels and found basic ale. Marnok investigated a curtained doorway and discovered a room with two empty cages, a grate leading to an undercarriage section, tables holding assorted bones and weaponry, a broken humanoid statue, and the full bone remains of an aquatic creature. The party encountered a locked door, which Mervyn blew open with a makeshift gunpowder charge. Beyond lay quarters with a bed, table, bookshelf, dresser, storage chest, and a ladder leading upward through a locked latch. Mervyn discovered eight platinum hidden beneath the mattress and a map depicting the Menagerie Coast. As they prepared to ascend, a voice called down from above, claiming to represent survivors and inviting them up for conversation.
The party ascended the stairs to find a dwarven bartender with a serving tray of drinks—and approximately six to seven pistols locking onto them with audible clicks. They had entered a tavern with a large pipe organ. Four armed individuals sat at tables near the stairs with pistols trained on the party. Two barmen stood behind a bar. A large, muscular human with ginger hair and pale skin stood in a far corner near the window, holding a warhammer and a drink, wearing a pelt across his shoulders [4]. Litton challenged the occupants to a drinking game. The large man set down his drink and turned to look at Litton directly, introducing himself as Seamus Grond, captain of the Storm Surges. He demanded to know why the party had killed his men and infiltrated the location. Phaedra revealed the truth: they had come to kill those working for Scarbosa. Seamus laughed and revealed there were seven armed combatants in the bar plus a boss man, in addition to the nine already defeated downstairs. Seamus reached for his warhammer, and combat erupted.
Litton moved into melee and struck Seamus multiple times with his axe, then grew to a larger size. Marnok ascended the stairs wielding the Blade of Tho'Maeus and engaged enemies, landing multiple strikes and gaining temporary hit points from the weapon. Mervyn moved cautiously up the stairs to scout, fired at an opponent, then retreated to cover. Kithri cast Wall of Fire at fourth level, trapping several enemies within the flames and dealing significant damage [5]. Viktorin cast a Channel Divinity that granted temporary hit points to nearby allies, then cast Spirit Guardians at fourth level, creating a glowing circle of protective energy centered on his position. Captain Phorus emerged from behind the bar onto an elevated deck above, introducing himself to the party and announcing his intention to join the fray. Seamus wielded a warhammer that crackled with electricity and engaged Litton, landing strikes that dealt both bludgeoning and lightning damage.
Marnok struck down an enemy in melee and positioned himself upon its corpse. Mervyn used Lightning Arrow to drag an enemy into the firewall trap, followed by a bonus action attack. Litton engaged Grond while attempting fire shackles against Seamus, but Seamus made a successful saving throw to resist the restraint. Kithri attempted to parkour toward Captain Phorus but became restrained mid-movement by stone covering her ankles, unable to complete the ascent. Phaedra engaged in combat against the pirate boss, dealing damage across multiple strikes. Captain Vodea Phorus appeared suddenly in Viktorin's pathway through teleportation or rapid movement, then struck Viktorin with a blade attack, dealing severe slashing damage that ended Viktorin's Spirit Guardians spell [6].
Kithri, restrained by stone covering her ankles, noticed Vodea Phorus's feet appeared to be made of stone. She cast Contagion at fifth level, hitting with a melee spell attack, and the target was poisoned, gaining disadvantage on actions. Pirates attacked Marnok and others, with one pirate landing a critical hit. Phaedra shot at a pirate, hitting with her second attack. Mervyn cast Lightning Lure on Captain Phorus, who failed the save, then attacked with finger cannons. Litton attempted a shove action but missed with a natural one. Seamus attacked Marnok and Litton but both strikes missed. Viktorin cast Spirit Guardians at fourth level again, requiring wisdom saves from multiple enemies—two failed and took full damage, while Vodea Phorus succeeded and took half. Marnok cast Ensnaring Strike at second level, hitting for damage, but the target resisted the restraint. Vodea Phorus made two blade attacks, missing Kithri but hitting Viktorin. Kithri cast Catha at fourth level against Vodea Phorus, who failed a Constitution saving throw and took double damage. Combat continued into round five with the party still engaged.
The party slew Vodea Phorus, Seamus Grond, and two Stone Cold creatures in the skull tavern, but Phaedra was petrified by proximity to Vodea Phorus and remains a stone statue awaiting restoration magic. Marnok discovered that Addison can see and hear through Mervyn's senses, forcing the party into a night of whispered planning while keeping their compromised companion unaware of the revelation. The group acquired a +1 longsword with Steel Wind Strike and the Hammer of the Tempest, recovered significant gold and gems, and learned from Captain Jack Sapphire that magic exists to cure Phaedra's petrification, though the means remain uncertain.
The party finished their brutal fight in the skull tavern, killing Vodea Phorus with a critical instant-death strike and dropping Seamus Grond moments later—but Phaedra was turned entirely to stone. Marnok discovered a private message revealing that Addison can see and hear through Mervyn's senses, forcing the group into a tense night of whispered planning while their compromised companion slept below.
Viktorin opened the round with a fourth-level Guiding Bolt that dealt twenty points of radiant damage and bathed the target in bright yellow light, granting advantage to all subsequent attacks [1]. Marnok moved into flanking position and landed two strikes in quick succession, dealing blade and cold damage. Vodea Phorus retaliated against Kithri, landing one strike before missing the second. Kithri responded by casting Hold Person at fourth level, paralyzing Stone Cold 1, Stone Cold 2, and Phaedra herself—only Seamus resisted the spell. Phaedra attempted to run forward but failed a Constitution save triggered by proximity to Vodea Phorus and was instantly petrified, her body transforming completely to stone.
Mervyn moved into position and struck Seamus twice, dealing seven points of damage and following up with finger-gun blasts. Litton attacked the paralyzed Seamus with advantage, landing heavy blows, and Seamus counterattacked for a combined seventeen damage. Viktorin cast Sacred Flame on the immobilized Stone Cold 1, then used Channel Divinity to regain a spell slot. Kithri attacked the paralyzed Vodea Phorus with her flame blade and scored a critical hit; her follow-up scimitar strike rolled a natural twenty, then a d100 result of one hundred, triggering an instant-death effect. Vodea Phorus failed his Constitution save against the instant kill and was graphically eviscerated on the spot [2].
Mervyn continued his assault on Seamus, dealing fourteen points of damage with a ranged attack that caved in the back of his head and killed him outright. He then turned his finger guns on Stone Cold 1, dealing ten points of force damage and dropping the paralyzed creature where it stood. Litton retrieved the Comet Ballista and fired at Stone Cold 2, dealing five damage and killing the last enemy. The combat ended with all four foes—Vodea Phorus, Seamus, Stone Cold 1, and Stone Cold 2—dead, and Phaedra standing frozen as a statue. Kithri backflipped off the bar and landed behind it, offering drinks to the party.
The party intimidated the two bartenders—a dwarf and another figure—into cooperation and learned that a crew of twenty had been needed to man the ship below; the party had killed approximately eighteen. Litton searched Seamus Grond's body and recovered fifty gold and a small warhammer crackling with electricity. Viktorin examined Vodea Phorus's corpse and found two hundred gold, a scroll, and a longsword of elven craftsmanship. Marnok explored an upstairs room and discovered a map of the Menagerie Coast, figurines, a pistol, a green heart necklace, and roughly one hundred gold worth of gems in a locked drawer. The scroll contained a letter from Scarbosa instructing the recipient to wait at the Skullport until further notice [3].
Mervyn completed a ritual identification of the longsword, revealing it to be a +1 blade with finesse properties and the ability to cast Steel Wind Strike once per long rest; Viktorin sensed there was more to the weapon than the spell revealed. Kithri agreed to store the blade in the bag of holding. The warhammer was identified as the Hammer of the Tempest, dealing lightning damage in addition to normal damage, with the thrown property and the ability to return to its attuned wielder's hand. The party decided to rest overnight rather than attempt a nighttime departure, and Litton paid the two barkeeps—offering them passage back to Nikodranas or the mainland—and had the bodies of their former captors thrown into the water below.
Viktorin cast Sending to Captain Jack Sapphire, confirming the area was clear and that Sapphire would join them at the dock in the morning. The party examined Phaedra's petrified form and discovered through testing with a shoelace that the petrification extended completely through her body—stone all the way through, not just a surface layer. Captain Jack Sapphire arrived an hour later and confirmed that magic existed to restore her, though he could not cast the necessary spell himself. Kithri stated she could not change her prepared spells until morning but would attempt to help Phaedra then. Litton took first watch, sitting at a window overlooking the docks and examining the warhammer, determining he could transfer runes from another weapon onto it with delicate work.
Marnok and Kithri took the secondary watch and passed an uneventful night. During the evening, Litton and Marnok retreated to private quarters for a confidential conversation. Marnok revealed that he had created a small ball inscribed with magical writing and given it to Viktorin before the recent battle; the item's message disclosed that Addison could see through Mervyn's eyes and hear what Mervyn heard, meaning Addison had been monitoring the party's activities and conversations since Mervyn's death and resurrection [4]. Litton initially misunderstood and thought the threat involved Viktorin, but Viktorin had told Litton about Mervyn being compromised while they were at Seamus's body. The party debated how to handle Mervyn's presence—options included blindfolding him, placing him in the bag of holding with periodic air breaks, or sending him away on mundane tasks—but recognized that any overt action would alert Addison that they knew about her surveillance.
The group realized that Addison now possessed intelligence on all party activities and conversations since Mervyn's resurrection, including their plans to acquire the orb from Master Yussa Errenis, conversations with Bra'Thocrys and the City Watch, discussions about Targanas and Scarbosa, and mentions of the House of Five and dragon-related activities. Mervyn had deliberately left the room and drunk heavily during the City Watch conversation, and had been intoxicated in the corner when Kristoff knocked on the door, leaving at that point. The party debated whether to feed false information to Mervyn so that misinformation would spread to Addison—suggesting destinations like Port Damali or Whitestone as misdirection—but others opposed the strategy, concerned it could backfire and lead Addison to their actual location. Mervyn remained asleep downstairs in a hammock throughout the night.
Viktorin maintained watch through the night as the sea remained calm and the moon hung visible overhead. At dawn, he perceived a turtle-headed creature peering into the skull's eye socket and greeting him with a simple "Hello." The party remained inside the skull tavern with their petrified companion and their compromised artificer, uncertain what the new day would bring.
Master Yugi revealed that Addison the vampire was using Mervyn as a spy, compromising the party's operational security regarding their plans against the House of Five and their discussions with Master Yussa Errenis. Kithri successfully learned the Spirit Ball technique from Yugi, gaining access to a powerful daily ability that could be amplified by allies at the cost of exhaustion. Viktorin attained a second divine vestige through the combined patronage of the Moonweaver and the Archheart, unlocking new powers through her Moonblade, and discovered through Legend Lore that Lady Kisara is actually Ki'Saraia, a major survivor of the Calamity who fought against dragons named Salethar and Tho'Maeus.
# Session Recap: The Spirit and the Sword
Master Yugi, an ancient turtle who claimed the island as his own, arrived at dawn and offered to train Kithri in a dangerous technique—one that carried a slim chance of death but promised formidable power if her spirit proved strong enough.
Viktorin's dawn watch ended when a humanoid turtle peered upside-down through the skull's eye socket and asked permission to enter. Master Yugi introduced himself as the island's centuries-old inhabitant, drawn by the previous night's battle. He questioned Viktorin about the party's purpose, speaking in riddles and garden metaphors while assessing whether they walked a righteous path. When Marnok joined the conversation, Yugi pressed for details about the creatures threatening the world, eventually learning the party sought to dismantle the House of Five—ancient dragons whose combined power could rival the Calamity itself. Jack Sapphire emerged from his hammock to confirm Yugi's reputation as a capable if cryptic former adventurer, revealing the turtle had found them before Jack brought the party to the island.
Yugi sensed something wrong with Mervyn, warning Viktorin that the artificer's ears and eyes were not his own—a weed strangling the plant that needed pulling at the root. The revelation sparked urgent whispered planning among the conscious party members, with Viktorin clarifying to Kithri and Marnok that Addison could see and hear through Mervyn, not through Viktorin as Litton still believed. The group realized Addison now possessed intelligence on their plans regarding Master Yussa Errenis's orb, conversations with the City Watch, and discussions about the House of Five. Sapphire absorbed the news grimly, relieved only that they likely hadn't revealed his true draconic form to the vampire's surveillance, preserving one element of surprise for the eventual confrontation with Yinra and Addison.
Yugi offered to teach Kithri a gift from the Wild Mother, warning it would take days and test her spirit to its limits. Kithri accepted, leaving Dook as her only companion while the rest of the party occupied themselves on the island. Mervyn attempted to fabricate diamonds from a massive quantity of charcoal but failed when casting the spell scroll, though he successfully created liquid incense oil for Viktorin's spellwork. Litton explored the island's perimeter and attuned his newly acquired Hammer of the Tempest, while Marnok helped Sapphire repair and rename Vodea Phorus's captured ship to the Second Wave, a name chosen by Phaedra who would inherit the vessel once Sapphire reclaimed his own from Ska'Dreshan. Litton confronted Marnok about his suspicions regarding Viktorin, only to learn the truth about Mervyn's affliction and the need to avoid discussing sensitive matters in the artificer's presence.
Over three days of grueling training, Kithri struggled to harness her spirit energy, suffering exhaustion and disappointment before finally manifesting a glowing orb in her palm. Yugi struck her head with his cane to test her concentration, and when she maintained focus despite the blow, he declared her successful. He explained the Spirit Ball could be used once per day and would cause exhaustion, but allies could lend their energy to increase its power—though they too would suffer exhaustion from contributing. Kithri marked her path back to the skull cave with golden spiderwebs of druidcraft, a precaution in case she failed to return.
Viktorin meditated and found herself transported to the familiar dark space where the Moonweaver's voice greeted her. The deity explained that scrying failures stemmed from targets' willpower, not Viktorin's inadequacy, then revealed a second divine presence—the Archheart, whose masculine voice joined the Moonweaver's in granting new boons. Together they promised Viktorin the ability to attune to the Moonblade she had carried since the Hofstetter Ranch, powers she would access through their combined patronage. When Viktorin opened her eyes, she discovered her necklace had transformed, three blue lapis gems now sprouting beneath the golden disc as physical proof of her awakened vestige.
Using Mervyn's liquid incense, Viktorin cast Legend Lore on Lady Kisara and found herself standing on an ancient battlefield during the Calamity. She witnessed Kisara—whose true name was Ki'Saraia, the Dark Frozen Winter—leading an army against forces supported by two younger dragons, one brass and one silver. The white dragon proved terrifyingly powerful, laying waste to everything before her while the names Salethar and Tho'Maeus echoed across the carnage. By battle's end, the two younger dragons lay injured while Ki'Saraia flew away from the blood-soaked field, a survivor of the Calamity and one of its most formidable combatants. Viktorin sent messages to Kithri's mother Vira, learning business was slowly recovering in Nikodranas, and to Master Yussa Errenis, warning him about Mervyn's condition and receiving a promise to research vampirism for a cure.
Yugi returned Kithri to the skull cave as dusk approached, gathering the party to acknowledge the growth he sensed in all of them over the past three days. He urged them to take what they had learned, blossom it into the world, and get to the root of their problems—fixing his stern gaze on Viktorin and Marnok as he spoke of pulling weeds. After bidding farewell and exchanging knowing words with Sapphire, the ancient turtle departed, leaving the party with a ship renamed and attuned, supplies restocked, and new powers awakened as they prepared for the journey back to Nikodranas.
A creature with vampiric characteristics who attacked Marnok with fangs and boots, nearly killing him. Addison can see and hear through Mervyn's eyes and senses, having gained this ability after Mervyn's death and resurrection, allowing Addison to monitor the party's activities and conversations. Addison was present with Yinra during a warehouse fight where the party was heavily dominated and nearly killed, with Addison wielding petrifying gaze abilities similar to a Medusa. Addison is paired with Yinra and potentially other allies including Twin Peaks, and may be aware of the party's plans regarding the orb from Master Yussa Errenis, conversations with Bra'Thocrys and the City Watch, discussions of Targanas and Scarbosa, and mentions of the House of Five and dragon-related activities. Addison was also referred to as "the woman from the temple" and is a vampire who led psycho wolves during the warehouse incident. Master Yugi sensed Addison's surveillance through Mervyn and warned that the connection needed to be severed at its root. The party became aware that Addison now possesses intelligence on their discussions about the House of Five and their plans, though they believed Addison had not yet learned of Sapphire's true draconic form.
An allied group coming from Port Damali that may assist in missions; at least a week away.
A bag that holds far more than its size suggests; an adventurer's essential. The party uses it to store valuable items including a +1 finesse longsword capable of casting Steel Wind Strike once per long rest, multiple pistols taken from pirates, residuum (approximately 200 gold's worth remaining after 300 gold's worth was used for a revivify spell), and other equipment. Kithri returned to Skull Cove with the bag of holding before dusk on the third day of training with Master Yugi.
A plant that grows hops and was planted outside; produces withered black hops sufficient to make one barrel of beer.
A weapon wielded by a character who struck down crew members with solid blows during the upstairs combat.
A spell referenced as an option during Kithri's turn.
A member of the House of Five, an adult dragon working within the House who serves as a double agent aligned against Skadra Shan and others.
An official D&D published adventure or source material from which the Jewel of 3 Prayers originates. The Hammer of the Tempest is an official D&D item from Call of the Netherdeep.
Captain of a ship belonging to Skardashan, described by multiple sources as a stone-cold killer. Full name is Vodea Phorus Phorus. Wears a captain's cloak, a tricorn hat, and has very shiny, glistening black long hair. Commands the Stormsurger, a two-masted ship. Emerged from behind a bar onto an elevated deck during combat in a tavern at Rumblecusp, announcing his intention to join the fray against the party. Possesses the ability to move with supernatural speed or teleport. Feet appear to be made of stone. Attacks with blade weapons and deals severe slashing damage. Resists magical restraint effects. Failed a Constitution saving throw against Catha cast at fourth level, taking double damage.
The white moon that appears in Mervyn's meditative void visions and illuminates a path forward. Catha appears in the dark space where Viktorin communes with the Moonweaver, visible above her as she stands on a white circle surrounded by black skylines and endless black void.
A 4th level spell cast by Kithri on Vodea Phorus that required a Constitution saving throw.
A spell known by one of the party members.
A group of legendary ancient dragons that attempted to overtake Tal'Dorei some years ago. They were stopped by Vox Machina. The party fears a similar incursion of legendary dragons may be rising again, potentially representing a resurrection of the Chroma Conclave threat.
A red dragon associated with the House of Five.
A weapon with a feature called Heilig Comets that hits multiple targets in an area, requiring a DC 13 Dexterity save, dealing full or half damage based on the result.
A 5th level spell allowing the caster to ask a deity three yes or no questions; Tho'Maeus's communication with Marnok appears to follow rules similar to this spell.
A 5th level spell cast by Kithri that requires a melee spell attack and forces a Constitution save, inflicting poison on a hit.
A spell that allows the caster to control freestanding water in a cube up to 100 feet on each side, including raising water levels by up to 20 feet.
An alchemist who runs a potion shop in Nicodranas and sells healing potions; she does not keep alchemist fire components on hand due to fire safety concerns.
A location or concept about which information was previously obtained; associated with the Nine Hells.
A material component used in restoration spells, worth 100 gold or requiring an alchemist half a day to a day to produce from diamonds. The party has 200 gold worth of Powder Residuum available as an alternative material component for spellwork.
Kithri's companion during her three-day training with Master Yugi. Dook is capable of speech. Sapphire has seen Dook on the ship. Dook will be unhappy about Kithri being hurt during her training with the master turtle.
A location or organization with multiple members, including Skabossa and entities with potential weaknesses.
A spell Kithri considers using to leave a golden silk trail as a marker. During her training with Master Yugi, Kithri used Druidcraft to mark her path back to the skull cave with golden spiderwebs as a precaution in case she failed to return within two days.
A spell used by Mervyn to shrink trees down to twig-size for transport and restore them to full size. Mervyn planned to use the spell to reduce large trees, drag them across the island, and then allow them to return to full size as part of his strategy to gather timber for supplies.
A 2nd level spell cast by Marnok that creates thorny vines and requires a strength saving throw to avoid restraint.
A 3rd level spell that causes a fountain of churned earth and stone to erupt in a 20-foot cube, dealing 3d12 bludgeoning damage on a failed Dexterity save or half on a success, and makes the ground difficult terrain.
A spell that grants 300 feet of darkvision for one hour.
A 5th-level spell that allows transformation of materials; Mervyn attempts to use a scroll to condense charcoal into diamonds but fails the casting check. When casting a spell above one's accessible spell level, a spellcasting check is required with a DC of 10 plus the spell's level. Mervyn pulled a spell scroll of Fabricate and attempted to condense a 10-by-10 cube of charcoal (reducing 8 squares to 1 square, making a 5-foot cube of diamonds) but failed the required spellcasting check; the spell scroll did not work.
A spell scroll that failed when Mervyn attempted to use it to transmute charcoal into diamonds.
A cantrip from the Baldur's Spire of Secrets that mimics a gun, dealing 2d6 force damage with 60 to 240-foot range. During the fight in the skull tavern, Mervyn used finger guns as a follow-up attack after striking Seamus, dealing seven points of damage. Later, Mervyn fired finger guns at Stone Cold 1 after a ranged attack, dealing ten points of force damage and killing the paralyzed creature. Mervyn also used finger guns against Stone Cold 2 as a finishing attack.
A spell cast by Mervyn as an attack against enemies.
A melee weapon spell used by Kithri that deals damage on a hit and benefits from critical strikes.
An entity with a personal guard; mentioned in connection with the Dragonhold.
Three blue lapis gems that sprouted beneath the golden disc of Viktorin's necklace after her long rest. They appeared as flower petal-like protrusions around the bottom of the disc and served as physical manifestation of her awakened vestige, granted by the Moonweaver and the Archheart. The gems are part of the Jewel of 3 Prayers, which Viktorin can change between Dormant and Awakened states.
A spell that Litton discussed as potentially capable of reversing petrification, but he is uncertain of its effects. During the party's time on the island, Viktorin and Viktorin cast Greater Restoration on Phaedra, who had been turned to stone. The spell consumed 100 gold worth of powder residuum and caused the petrification to slowly dissipate, restoring the blue color to Phaedra's skin as she returned to her normal form.
A necklace found in a locked drawer aboard the ship.
Hurls a bolt of radiant energy that marks the target with glowing light. Targets hit by Guiding Bolt gain advantage on melee attack rolls against them until the end of the attacker's next turn. When cast at fourth level, Guiding Bolt deals twenty points of radiant damage and bathes the target in bright yellow light.
A spell cast on a ranged weapon attack that creates a rain of thorns dealing 1d10 piercing damage on a failed Dexterity save, with the effect spreading to creatures within 5 feet of the target.
A warhammer with the thrown property that deals an additional 2d6 lightning damage, has versatile damage (1d8 or 1d10 bludgeoning), and returns to the wielder's hand when thrown; requires attunement. It is versatile, usable with one hand (1d8) or two hands (1d10). The hammer is very intricately made and a gorgeous piece of weaponry. When inspected closely, small sparks of electricity are visible around the hammer end.
A location where Viktorin picked up the dormant Jewel of 3 Prayers. The Moonblade that Viktorin carried since the Hofstetter Ranch was attuned during the three-day training period on the island, with the Moonweaver and the Archheart granting her powers to access it through their combined patronage.
A spell that paralyzes humanoid targets who fail a Wisdom save, granting advantage on attack rolls against them and allowing them to attempt another save at the end of each turn. When cast at 3rd level or higher, the caster can target one additional humanoid for each slot level above 3rd. Targets must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or be paralyzed for the duration. At the end of each of the target's turns, the target can make another Wisdom saving throw; on success, the spell ends. The spell requires the caster to see the target before casting. Casting Hold Person again while concentration is maintained on a previous casting of the spell causes concentration on the previous spell to drop, allowing retargeting but preventing the previous target from having a chance to succeed on additional saves.
A group or organization that Scarbosa is a member of; the full membership is unknown to the party. Originally consisted of five members, but the party has dispatched one of them some months ago, reducing it to four. Their primary goal is world domination. Master Yugi has heard of them. The creatures that the party encountered mentioned the House of Five. The party believes the House of Five are quite powerful creatures that, if brought together, would bring devastation to the world on a scale comparable to the Calamity. Lady Kisara (true name Ki'Saraia, the Dark Frozen Winter) is one of the surviving members—a dragon who participated in the Calamity and proved to be one of its most formidable combatants. The party's current path involves dismantling the House of Five piece by piece. Tho'Maeus has knowledge of the House of Five and was summoned by Marnok during session 87 to answer questions about them.
A ritual spell that Litton cast on the longsword to determine its properties.
A spell that deals necrotic damage, mentioned in discussion as a lower-level alternative to Harm.
A sapphire dragon who operates undercover, frequenting the Withered Bird Inn where he sits down with the party and proposes games to exchange information over drinks while maintaining a drunken persona. He revealed his true nature to the party at the inn, abandoning his act entirely. Jack possesses a vessel capable of ocean travel and serves as its captain, controlling the vessel through telepathic commands. He sailed the party to Rumblecusp in the Mervyn Archipelago over three days. He provided critical intelligence that Skadraschan remained in Nicodranas with his ship, but another vessel under Skadraschan's control sat docked at Rumblecusp, crewed and awaiting orders. Jack proposed a stealth mission to thin Skadraschan's forces before direct confrontation. Jack had previously found Master Yugi and brought the party to the island of Rumblecusp, where the ancient turtle awaited them. Jack absorbed news grimly that Addison possessed intelligence through Mervyn regarding the party's plans about Master Yussa Errenis's orb, conversations with the City Watch, and discussions about the House of Five, but expressed relief that they had not revealed his true draconic form to the vampire's surveillance, preserving an element of surprise for the eventual confrontation with Yinra and Addison. He exchanged knowing words with Master Yugi before the ancient turtle departed. Ska'Dreshan currently possesses a ship that Jack intends to reclaim.
A necklace with a golden disc and three blue lapis stone gem petals that can transition from Dormant to Awakened state; Viktorin's vestige item from Call of the Netherdeep. During a long rest after three days on Master Yugi's island, the necklace warmed against Viktorin's chest and transformed, revealing three blue lapis gems sprouting like flower petals from beneath the golden disc. The awakening occurred following Viktorin's meditation with the Moonweaver and the Archheart, who granted her new boons and the ability to attune to the Moonblade. The physical manifestation of the three gems served as proof of her awakened vestige.
Lady Kisara's true name revealed during the Calamity, when she led an army against forces supported by younger dragons named Salethar and Tho'Maeus, surviving as one of the Calamity's most formidable combatants.
An ancient white dragon with piercing blue eyes, thousands of years old, who appears to be the leader of the House of Five. Her true name is Ki'Saraia, also known as "the Dark Frozen Winter" and Lady Kisara. One of the most ferocious and deadly dragons that fought during the Calamity War, known for being conniving and laying wise to enemy forces. During the Calamity, she led an army against forces supported by two younger dragons, one brass and one silver. The names Salethar and Tho'Maeus were heard echoing across the battlefield during this conflict. She proved terrifyingly powerful, laying waste to everything before her. By battle's end, the two younger dragons lay injured while Ki'Saraia flew away from the blood-soaked field, surviving the Calamity as one of its most formidable combatants.
## The Fisher's Question Kithri Stoutbridge is a Level 10 Stout Halfling Druid of Fisher background, marked by exceptional dexterity (18) and wisdom (17), with moderate strength (16) and the feat Bountiful Luck. They carry 80 hit points and maintain AC 15. Little is recorded of their entry into the campaign or their early history beyond their profession as a fisher. ## Intelligence Gathering at Rumblecusp In the most recent session, the party learned of imminent conflict at Rumblecusp—Skadraschan commands a second vessel crewed and ready to move, and the sapphire dragon Jack has allied with them. Cassara, an ancient white dragon of thousands of years, likely leads the House of Five. The Moonweaver delivered a divine warning of chaos to come with promised support from other patrons. The party undertook a covert underwater approach to Rumblecusp under cover of darkness to strike before reinforcements from the Adjacency could arrive. During the session, Kithri raised a practical question: "Who's that guy who works for the Pontos?" This inquiry was part of broader party deliberation about which allies to recruit for the coming confrontation. The discussion revealed that Faden Ilmaris works for the Targaryens while maintaining ties with Meereen, a senior Zalazan guard, and the two are friends. The party debated whether to involve them and noted they would need a code word to signal readiness. There was discussion of whether Garvo might assist, though his prior help had been limited by what he actually knew. Kithri also asked "How to get to System Street?"—seeking logistical information about reaching allies. The party considered recruiting Phaedra to aid in the fight, noting she might be motivated by connection to Scarbossa. They reflected on other contacts, including Nirn at the barracks, whom they had spoken with not long prior. ## Threads to Pull Kithri's campaign so far has centered on reconnaissance and alliance-building ahead of direct conflict. Their questions suggest a practical focus on logistics and personnel—who can help, where to find them, how to coordinate. The covert approach to Rumblecusp positions them for imminent action against Skadraschan's forces, with the divine warning of chaos as a backdrop to the stakes involved. ## The Spirit and the Sword Master Yugi sensed something wrong with Mervyn during his dawn arrival, warning Viktorin that the artificer's ears and eyes were not his own—a weed strangling the plant that needed pulling at the root. The ancient turtle offered to teach Kithri a gift from the Wild Mother, though he cautioned it would take days and test her spirit to its limits, carrying even a slim chance of death if her spirit proved insufficiently strong. Kithri accepted the offer, leaving Dook as her only companion while the rest of the party occupied themselves elsewhere on the island. ## Three Days of Growth Over three days of grueling training, Kithri struggled to harness her spirit energy, suffering exhaustion and disappointment before finally manifesting a glowing orb in her palm. Yugi struck her head with his cane to test her concentration, and when she maintained focus despite the blow, he declared her successful. He explained the Spirit Ball could be used once per day and would cause exhaustion, but allies could lend their energy to increase its power—though they too would suffer exhaustion from contributing. As a precaution in case she failed to return, Kithri marked her path back to the skull cave with golden spiderwebs of druidcraft. ## Ready to Sail Yugi returned Kithri to the skull cave as dusk approached, gathering the party to acknowledge the growth he sensed in all of them over the past three days. He urged them to take what they had learned, blossom it into the world, and get to the root of their problems—fixing his stern gaze on Viktorin and Marnok as he spoke of pulling weeds. After bidding farewell and exchanging knowing words with Sapphire, the ancient turtle departed, leaving the party with a ship renamed and attuned, supplies restocked, and new powers awakened as they prepared for the journey back to Nikodranas.
An individual the party met who has allies.
A spell cast by Viktorin to learn about Lady Kisara, which transports the caster to a vision of a Calamity War battlefield. When cast using liquid incense, the caster is transported to a vision where they witness the subject's role during the Calamity. In Viktorin's casting, she observed Kisara—whose true name is Ki'Saraia, the Dark Frozen Winter—as a white dragon leading forces during the Calamity War. The vision showed Ki'Saraia as one of the most ferocious and deadly dragons of that conflict, laying waste to armies supported by two younger dragons (one brass, one silver). The names Salethar and Tho'Maeus were heard called out during the battle. Ki'Saraia proved a survivor of the Calamity War and demonstrated terrifying power, with the two younger dragons left injured as she flew away from the blood-soaked battlefield.
A spell in Litton's spellbook.
A spell cast by Mervyn that required a Constitution saving throw. Cast on Captain Phorus, who failed the save. Used as a melee range ability.
A liquid form of incense purchased for 250 gold that releases aroma slowly and can be used as a component for spellcasting. Mervyn created it over the course of a day by combining acid, charcoal, and alchemical knowledge, rolling a natural 20 on the crafting check. Through this successful creation, Mervyn learned how to permanently craft infused incense oil. Viktorin used the liquid incense as a material component to cast Legend Lore.
## Mountain Dwarf at the Table Litton Cloudstone is a Level 10 Mountain Dwarf Fighter with 148 hit points and AC 20, wielding the considerable physical resilience of his heritage. With Strength 18 and Constitution 20, he embodies the martial archetype of his kind. His background as a Clan Crafter roots him in practical, methodical values. By Session 86, he operates as a tactical voice within the party, conscious of planning and sequence—the kind of fighter who thinks before the charge. ## Counsel and Conspiracy In Session 86, as the party gathered in stunned silence following a conversation that left them reeling, Litton moved quickly toward pragmatism. While Mervyn Bottletop sought greasy food and drink, Litton called for a formal chat, recognizing the moment demanded coordinated strategy. He anchored the group's thinking on two pressing matters: the order of engagement with their enemies, and the imminent arrival of the Adjacency—allies whose timeline remained uncertain but whose presence would reshape the battlefield. Litton demonstrated particular interest in Christoph (also known by his true dragon name, Brathachris), the Arc Bolt or Arcane Bolt, seeking clarity on whether the Adjacency had a confirmed date of arrival. Learning that these allies had roughly a week to reach Nicodranas, he engaged the practical calculus of preparation. His questions were direct and focused: not on the why, but on the when and how of coordination. ## The Chromatic Reckoning The party has been tasked with meeting allies heading to Nicodranas to "build a decent enough home to deal the chromatic solution"—a phrase heavy with implication of conflict against chromatic dragons or their forces. Litton, as the disciplined tactician, understands the stakes are existential. He knows the party recently learned that Skadraschan commands a second vessel at Rumblecusp, crewed and ready, and that Jack—revealed to be a sapphire dragon—has allied with Skadraschan's enemies. More gravely, Cassara, an ancient white dragon of thousands of years, likely leads the House of Five. The party received divine warning from the Moonweaver of chaos looming, with support promised from other patrons. Under cover of darkness, they undertook a covert underwater approach to Rumblecusp to strike before reinforcements from the Adjacency could arrive—a timeline that has now shifted, with the focus turning to Nicodranas and alliance-building in the week ahead. Litton sees the shape of the threat clearly: chromatic power arrayed against them, time compressed, and victory contingent on coordination with forces he has not yet met. He is ready to plan.
A cantrip selected by a party member.
## Level 10 Wood Elf Ranger Marnok Konram is a Wood Elf Ranger of the 10th level, bearing the background of a Mercenary Veteran. He operates with exceptional dexterity (19) and wisdom (18), supporting his role as a skilled tracker and archer. His armor class stands at 17, and he maintains 85 hit points. His other attributes are: Strength 9, Constitution 13, Intelligence 14, Charisma 11. ## Against Skadraschan's Tide The party learned of a second vessel under Skadraschan's command stationed at Rumblecusp, crewed and combat-ready. They discovered that Jack, initially unknown, is a sapphire dragon who has allied with Skadraschan's forces against the party's interests. Intelligence also revealed Cassara—an ancient white dragon of thousands of years—likely commands the House of Five. A divine warning from the Moonweaver foretold chaos looming, with support promised from other patrons. In response, the party undertook a covert underwater approach to Rumblecusp under cover of darkness, positioning themselves to strike before reinforcements from the Adjacency could arrive. ## Gathering Allies During recent deliberations, Marnok helped navigate questions of recruitment and intelligence. The party discussed whether to inform Yusra about the House of Five; prior contact with Yusra occurred near the Lowry Chateau, where he indicated he was unable to help (though not unwilling). Marnok inquired about practical logistics—how to get in touch with contacts, whether they could find Yusra back at the Targanas, and how to reach System Street. The party also identified Phaedra as a potential recruit for the coming conflict, particularly because she may respond to threats involving Scarbossa. They noted the existence of a barracks in town that they had visited before, where they might contact Nirn or gather further support.
An ancient turtle-like humanoid who has lived on his island for centuries, arrived at the skull cave by flipping down through the eye socket, carries a wooden cane, dwells in an abode near a waterfall, and teaches techniques passed down by the Wild Mother. Master Yugi has inhabited the island for centuries and permits visitors to moor their ships without question if they bring no harm. He is one with the land and was drawn to the skull cave by the cacophonous noise of battle. He speaks in riddles and garden metaphors while assessing whether those he meets walk a righteous path. He sensed something wrong with Mervyn, warning that the artificer's ears and eyes were not his own—a weed strangling the plant. Master Yugi offered to train Kithri in a gift from the Wild Mother, a technique that tests the spirit to its limits and carries a slim chance of death but promises formidable power if the spirit proves strong enough. The training took three days. He struck Kithri's head with his cane during training to test her concentration. He explained the Spirit Ball technique could be used once per day and would cause exhaustion, but allies could lend their energy to increase its power at the cost of their own exhaustion. Jack Sapphire confirmed Yugi's reputation as a capable if cryptic former adventurer. Master Yugi urged the party to take what they had learned, blossom it into the world, and get to the root of their problems, speaking of pulling weeds. He exchanged knowing words with Sapphire before departing as dusk approached.
A contact the party plans to visit first. An elf who sits in a tower in the middle of Nikodranas. When Viktorin sent him a Sending spell about a party member being bitten by a vampire, dying, and being resurrected, with the vampire able to see and hear through them, Master Yussa Errenis responded that the situation was problematic and that he was not well-versed in vampirism but would research it and figure out what he could, then get back to them. He advised them to be careful what is said and seen, as the vampire could hear and see through the afflicted party member.
A spell that allows a caster to commit a page of written text to memory for one year with perfect recall.
A coastal region where the party operates.
An archipelago off the coast of Nicodranas.
## Forest Gnome Artificer of Rumblecusp Mervyn Bottletop is a level 10 Forest Gnome, split between Artificer (9 levels) and Wizard (1 level). He operates with exceptional dexterity (DEX 18) and intellect (INT 20), carrying 88 hit points and maintaining AC 16. His background as a Failed Merchant shapes his practical approach to problems. He is currently semi-drunk as of Session 86's start, the morning of the 9th day of Brashenda. ## The Covert War Against the House of Five Mervyn is entangled in a high-stakes conflict against an ancient conspiracy. The party learned that **Skadraschan** commands a second vessel crewed and ready at Rumblecusp, and that **Jack**—revealed to be a sapphire dragon—has allied against their shared enemies. **Cassara**, an ancient white dragon of thousands of years, likely leads the House of Five. The party received a divine warning from the **Moonweaver** of chaos looming with support promised from other patrons. They executed a covert underwater approach to Rumblecusp under cover of darkness, positioning themselves to strike Skadraschan's forces before reinforcements from the Adjacency could arrive. Most recently, an ally (referred to as **Christoph** or by his true dragon name **Brathachris**, who goes by Arc Bolt or Arcane Bolt) met with the party and suggested flushing the House out of the city of **Nicodranas**, starting with Skadraschan's personal guard. Christoph mentioned he already had other allies heading toward Nicodranas and urged the party to meet with them to build strength against the chromatic solution. This revelation left the entire party stunned and silent. ## Gathering Intelligence and Allies Mervyn's immediate focus centers on recruitment and coordination. The party discussed contacting **Yusra** (someone associated with a tower and previously encountered near the Lowry Chateau), though there is uncertainty about what Yusra already knows regarding the House of Five; Yusra was previously unable to offer direct help, though he has been helpful to the party in other contexts. The party also seeks to recruit **Phaedra**, who may be motivated to help if the conflict involves **Scarbossa**. The party noted the existence of barracks in town they have visited before, where additional allies or information might be found. Mervyn discussed getting food downstairs and participated in conversations about next steps—whether to approach System Street, contact allies at the Targanas, or visit known locations. His role in these strategic discussions reflects his position as an active member of the party's planning. ## Dragon Lore and Research During this session, Mervyn undertook research on **adult green dragons**, specifically studying **Tarsalone** (an apparent green dragon threat). He learned that green dragons possess a poisonous nature as a core physical ability, with poison breath that is quite toxic. He took detailed notes on these findings, which were copied so he would retain the information for future reference. This research suggests the party anticipates or has already encountered a green dragon threat and is preparing countermeasures.
A healing potion that grants d4+5 and 2d6+5 hit points.
A +1 finesse longsword of elven make with the ability to cast Steel Wing Blade once per long rest; requires attunement. Viktorin carries this blade and attuned to it through patronage granted by the Moonweaver and the Archheart during meditation, accessing powers of the weapon through their combined boons.
An underground dungeon location from which the Potion of Immortality was obtained.
A city where the party is currently located and where Ska'Dreshan's ship is docked. Ska'Dreshan remains in Nikodranas with his ship. Another vessel under Ska'Dreshan's control is docked at Rumblecusp in the Mervyn Archipelago, several days travel by boat from Nikodranas, positioned on an island in the archipelago off the coast of Nikodranas. The party set sail from Nikodranas aboard Jack's vessel on an evening journey to Rumblecusp that would take three days. The barman at the warehouse on Rumblecusp has been promised by the party that he will be returned to Nikodranas after the party finishes their current business. Phaedra plans to find a crew in Nikodranas for the Second Wave, a ship she will inherit once Sapphire reclaims his own vessel from Ska'Dreshan. Addison and Yinra are not welcome in Nikodranas; people in the city are on watch for them, and they are aware that the party is coming for them. Business in Nikodranas has been slowly recovering.
A location or concept about which information was previously obtained in connection with Deserat.
A spell that grants each creature chosen within 30 feet a +10 bonus to Stealth checks.
A multi-barreled firearm weapon with an 80-foot minimum range.
A character who received a letter from Kithri and tends to a Black Dragonflower plant with assistance from others. Perry is a member of the party's adventuring group who participated in combat during the infiltration of Rumblecusp's docks, firing an arrow at a pirate manning a swivel crossbow and dealing 7 points of damage with a successful attack roll of 25.
A character expected to be at the bar later in the evening; someone the party plans to update on current information. A sea elf who agreed to join the party's mission to take down Ska'Dreshan's men after receiving their message on Rumblecusp. She met the party at a tavern to discuss the plan before traveling with them to Jack Sapphire's ship. During the underwater descent to the skull-shaped lair, she was cast Water Breathing alongside the party and descended with them toward the island. She surfaced with the party and participated in the dockside ambush, drawing a rifle and firing at enemies with shots improved by Kithri's reaction. During the subsequent combat in the tavern, she revealed to Seamus Grond and Captain Phorus that the party had come to kill those working for Scarbosa. She engaged in melee combat against pirates, dealing damage across multiple strikes and shooting at enemies with her rifle. Her class type remains unknown to the party. During the party's time on the island, Phaedra was turned to stone. She was later restored to her normal state when Marnok and Viktorin cast Greater Restoration on her, using 100 gold worth of residuum in the process. Upon being restored, she readied her rifle and demanded to know what had happened to her. She will inherit the ship the Second Wave once Jack Sapphire reclaims his own vessel from Ska'Dreshan. Phaedra has lost a ship to Ska'Dreshan.
A port from which the Adjacency operates.
A potion that lasts forever; obtained from a Mummy Lord's casket in an underground dungeon.
A cantrip selected by a party member.
A spell referenced as requiring a melee spell attack roll. During the three-day stay on the island, a character confirmed they could cast Produce Flame and discussed using it to ignite liquid incense oil.
A transmutation spell that forms a new adult body and calls the soul to enter it. The spell requires rare oils and unguents worth 1,000 gold as a material component. It can restore a creature that has been dead no longer than 10 days. If the target's soul isn't free or willing to enter the new body, the spell fails.
A spell with 60-foot range cast by Viktorin against enemy number 8, dealing poison damage.
A spell that causes a creature or object to shrink to half its size in all dimensions and reduce its weight to 1/8 normal. During the party's stay on the island, Mervyn cast Reduce on large trees to shrink them down to twig-size for easier transport, then allowed the spell to expire to return them to full size. This application was used as part of the party's efforts to gather timber and resources.
A distant location accessible via teleportation circle in a tower; contains resources for learning about dragons and draconic lore.
A small island in the Mervyn Archipelago to the south, where Ska'Dreshan's ship and crew are fortified; takes at least 3 days to reach by steady pace. The island features a massive skull-shaped lair with glowing eye sockets. Captain Forrest's double-masted ship is docked at the island alongside a small dinghy. The surrounding waters are shallow enough for underwater approach.
A melee weapon wielded by Litton with runic inscriptions. Used in combat against dockside guards and enemies at the tavern, dealing damage across multiple strikes. Litton also wielded it against Seamus Grond during the second battle in the fortified tavern.
A spell cast by Viktorin against a held target that automatically succeeds.
A dragon whose name is heard cried out during a Calamity War battle witnessed through Legend Lore; fights alongside a brass and silver dragon against Kessaria.
A dragon and member of the House of Five. Sent a letter to the Skullport instructing the recipient to wait there until further notice, signed with his name. The party has dealt a significant blow against him. Addison has the capability to inform him of the party's activities and intentions, including their plans to acquire an orb from Master Yussa Errenis, conversations with Bra'Thocrys and the City Watch, discussions about Targanas, and mentions of the House of Five and dragon-related activities. He has associates and backup plans. Phaedra, a sea elf, has been wronged by Scarbosa and lost a ship to him. The party acquired a ship that belonged to Scarbosa's people and plans to modify and rename it to avoid recognition when sailing back to Nikodranas, as Scarbosa or his crew seeing the original vessel could pose a significant threat.
A spell cast by Phaedra that deals 2d6 fire damage, targeting multiple enemies.
A spell that Viktorin has attempted to cast but which fails when the target has sufficient willpower to resist. The spell's failure is not due to the caster's capabilities but rather the willpower of the target being scried upon. Some figures are impossible to trace, while others are even harder still. Viktorin sought the Moonweaver's guidance and approval before casting the spell to ensure it would benefit both herself and her party's progress.
A large, muscular human with ginger hair and pale skin wearing a pelt over his shoulders who wields a warhammer and serves as a lieutenant or enforcer for Scarbosa, commanding pirates in a fortress bar.
A spell cast by a party member to send a message to Phaedra; limited to 25 words or less. Viktorin cast Sending to Captain Jack Sapphire with the message "Hi Jack, it's Viktorin. Under control here. Okay to sleep the night? Thoughts? Are you in a position to see if someone is coming?" and received the response "Nothing spotted out this way. We'll make my way to the dock. Join you for a rest. We'll discuss things in the morning." Viktorin cast Sending to Kithri's mother Vira with the message "Hi Vira, it's Viktorin, just checking in. How's the family and business? Anything happening in town? Kithra is learning new things. So proud." and received the response "Hi, Viktorin. Nice to hear from you. Business is back up. We're getting back to it slowly. Still a bit nervous. We're proud of our Kithri too. Take care of her." Viktorin cast Sending to Master Yussa Errenis with the message "Master Yussa Errenis, have a situation. One of party a vampire's bitten, died, but resurrected. Vampire can see and hear through them. Be reversed. Help. Advice, Viktorin." and received the response "This is problematic. I'm not well-versed in vampirism, but I will research it. Figure out what I can. And get back to you. If one can hear and see through him. Be careful what is said and seen."
A spell cast by Viktorin on Litton that grants +2 to AC.
A captain with a sea army who has placed ships and subordinates on an island several days' travel away from Nikodranas in the archipelago. The party is planning an infiltration mission against his forces. Jack Sapphire has a ship that Ska'Dreshan currently possesses, which Sapphire intends to reclaim. Phaedra, a sea elf, has also lost a ship to Ska'Dreshan.
A rock formation on an island with a summit that offers views of the island's landscape, featuring trees and open fields.
A location where Scarbosa left instructions for the party to wait until further notice.
A spell cast using a Ring of Animal Friendship to communicate with creatures.
A scroll containing a single spell, usable once. When a character without access to a spell's level attempts to cast it from a scroll, the DC is 10 plus the spell level, and the scroll is consumed as part of the casting attempt regardless of success. A failed casting results in the spell not taking effect.
Conjures spirits that orbit you and damage nearby enemies. When cast at fourth level, it creates a glowy circle requiring wisdom saves from enemies within it who are not allies; those who fail take full damage, those who succeed take half damage. Enemies within the circle's area cannot easily leave—attempting to exit requires a wisdom save, and failure results in remaining trapped. The spell requires a Constitution saving throw to maintain concentration when the caster takes damage; the DC equals half the damage taken (rounded up). If the caster fails this save, the spell ends immediately. Viktorin cast Spirit Guardians during combat and took 37 points of force damage, forcing a Constitution save with DC 18 to maintain the spell; he failed the save and the spell ended.
A spell used by Seamus that allows him to flourish his weapon and strike up to 5 chosen creatures with melee spell attacks.
An enemy combatant who fired two shots at Kithri during battle, the first striking for 12 points of damage and the second narrowly missing. Stone Cold 1 was later paralyzed by Kithri's Hold Person spell cast at fourth level. Viktorin cast Sacred Flame on the paralyzed Stone Cold 1, dealing 7 points of damage. Mervyn then attacked Stone Cold 1 with finger guns, dealing 10 points of force damage and killing the paralyzed creature where it stood.
A large two-masted pirate ship moored on the left-hand side of the dock, nearly double the size of Jack Sapphire's ship, belonging to Captain Phorus.
A distant shore visible in Mervyn's meditative void visions. A location that experienced a calamitous incursion by the Chroma Conclave, a group of legendary ancient dragons that attempted to overtake Tal'Dorei by force some years ago before being stopped by Vox Machina.
An NPC or group typically available for quests or jobs.
An adult green dragon that the party has encountered.
An ancient dragon associated with the House of Five.
A Slezo guard that the party plans to visit for information.
A historical event referenced in relation to dragon activity and capabilities. During the Calamity, Ki'Saraia (also known as Lady Kisara and the Dark Frozen Winter) led an army against forces supported by two younger dragons, one brass and one silver. A white dragon of terrifying power participated in the conflict, laying waste to forces across an ancient battlefield. The dragons Salethar and Tho'Maeus were also present during the Calamity. By the battle's end, two of the younger dragons lay injured while Ki'Saraia survived and flew away from the blood-soaked field. The combined power of the House of Five—ancient dragons currently separated but capable of catastrophic destruction if united—could potentially rival the scale of destruction wrought during the Calamity. Tho'Maeus fought alongside the brass dragon and silver dragon against Kessaria, the white dragon also known as Lady Kisara, and was injured during the battle.
A feminine divine entity who communicates with Viktorin in the black void, offering guidance and mentioning other patrons; associated with the white moon Catha. She has been watching Viktorin's growth and, alongside the Archheart, granted Viktorin new boons including the ability to attune to the Moonblade. She explained that scrying failures stem from the target's willpower rather than the caster's capabilities, and noted that some figures are impossible to trace while others are harder to scry upon. When speaking with Viktorin, she and the Archheart spoke in unison, addressing Viktorin as "Verdea, Brighid" and instructing her to spend time with the Moonblade to learn it and attain new powers upon awakening. She urged Viktorin to continue growing and forging her own path, stating "You are not controlled anymore" and that they are "here to guide you. To give you the power that you desire. To help those around you."
A tavern in Nicodranas where Phaedra meets with the party. Jack Sapphire frequents the inn, where he sits down with the party and proposes games to exchange information over drinks while maintaining a drunken persona.
A small dragon with blue eyes capable of telepathic communication in Draconic; communicates primarily through yes/no responses and has knowledge of entities called the Dragonhold and their members. When summoned by Marnok during session 87, Tho'Maeus answered three questions about the House of Five with two yeses and one no, responding to Marnok's questions about Tho'Maeus's knowledge of them and whether he could hear conversations being had. When Marnok attempted further questions, Tho'Maeus was seemingly unresponsive and did not provide additional answers. Upon hearing Marnok speak Draconic, Tho'Maeus looked at Marnok and responded with a cryptic message referencing three questions, commune, and a feeling of caution. During the Calamity War, Tho'Maeus fought alongside a brass dragon and a silver dragon against Kessaria, the white dragon also known as Lady Kisara. Tho'Maeus was injured during this battle.
A spell cast by Kithri that allows dragging a target up to 5 feet closer to the caster.
A spell cast by Viktorin against enemy number 6 during combat.
A humanoid-sized turtle head that peered through the eye socket of a skull at dawn, making direct eye contact with Viktorin and greeting her with Hello.
The father of the Dark Sun, a member of the House of Five who is deceased.
A crew member killed during the tavern engagement who possessed a longsword, coin purse with 200 gold, and a scroll.
## The Moonweaver's Warning and the Divine Lifeline Viktorin stood as one of the founding members when the party committed to a three-day sea voyage to Rumblecusp, choosing to strike before reinforcements from the Adjacency could arrive. When Marnok communed with Tho'Maeus and the blade delivered its warning to be extremely careful, Viktorin recognized the pattern immediately—Tho'Maeus was operating under the constraints of a divine Commune spell, limiting his answers to three per session. During the voyage to Rumblecusp aboard Jack Sapphire's vessel, Viktorin entered a meditative void and encountered the Moonweaver, who warned of chaos looming and promised that other divine patrons stood ready to support Viktorin beyond their previous one. The party ritually cast water breathing before diving into the shallow waters, swimming toward the massive skull-shaped lair that loomed ahead with glowing eye sockets. ## Beneath the Waves and Into the Skull Viktorin descended with the party through darkness beneath the ocean, those without darkvision moving blind as the seafloor rose and dock posts emerged ahead. When the party gained surprise against the guards stationed at the docks, Viktorin cast Toll the Dead in the surprise round. As four additional enemies arrived and combat proper began, Viktorin cast a protective sphere that granted temporary hit points to allies, then cast Shield of Faith on Litton to bolster his armor class. Later in the fight, Viktorin cast Guiding Bolt to strike an enemy combatant. The party collected pistols, rapiers, and gold from the fallen guards and explored the cleared structure. Mervyn discovered a map depicting the Menagerie Coast in an upstairs room. When the party ascended a ladder through a locked latch, they entered a tavern where seven pistols locked onto them with audible clicks. A large, muscular human with ginger hair introduced himself as Seamus Grond, and when Phaedra revealed the party had come to kill those working for Scarbosa, Seamus reached for his warhammer and combat erupted. ## Spirit Guardians and the Stone-Footed Assassin Viktorin cast a Channel Divinity that granted temporary hit points to nearby allies, then cast Spirit Guardians at fourth level, creating a glowing circle of protective energy centered on his position. Captain Phorus emerged from behind the bar onto an elevated deck above, announcing his intention to join the fray. Seamus wielded a warhammer that crackled with electricity and engaged Litton with strikes dealing both bludgeoning and lightning damage. As combat intensified, Captain Vodea Phorus appeared suddenly in Viktorin's pathway through teleportation or rapid movement, then struck Viktorin with a blade attack, dealing severe slashing damage that ended Viktorin's Spirit Guardians spell. Viktorin cast Spirit Guardians at fourth level again, requiring wisdom saves from multiple enemies—two failed and took full damage, while Vodea Phorus succeeded and took half. Vodea Phorus made two blade attacks against Viktorin, missing once but landing another strike. Combat continued into round five with the party still engaged. ## Radiant Light and Instant Death Kithri cast Hold Person at fourth level, paralyzing three enemies, though Seamus resisted. Phaedra attempted to run forward but failed a Constitution save triggered by proximity to Vodea Phorus and was instantly petrified, her body transforming completely to stone. Viktorin cast Sacred Flame on the immobilized Stone Cold enemy, then used Channel Divinity to regain a spell slot. Kithri scored a critical hit followed by a natural twenty against Vodea Phorus, triggering an instant-death effect that graphically eviscerated him on the spot. The combat ended with all four foes dead and Phaedra standing frozen as a statue. Viktorin examined Vodea Phorus's corpse and found two hundred gold, a scroll, and a longsword of elven craftsmanship. The scroll contained a letter from Scarbosa instructing the recipient to wait at the Skullport until further notice. When Mervyn completed a ritual identification of the longsword, Viktorin sensed there was more to the weapon than the revealed Steel Wind Strike ability. ## What Addison Sees Through Mervyn's Eyes The party examined Phaedra's petrified form and discovered through testing with a shoelace that the petrification extended completely through her body—stone all the way through. Viktorin cast Sending to Captain Jack Sapphire, confirming the area was clear and that Sapphire would join them at the dock in the morning. Captain Jack Sapphire arrived an hour later and confirmed that magic existed to restore Phaedra, though he could not cast the necessary spell himself. During the evening, Marnok revealed that he had created a small ball inscribed with magical writing and given it to Viktorin before the recent battle. The item's message disclosed that Addison could see through Mervyn's eyes and hear what Mervyn heard, meaning Addison had been monitoring the party's activities and conversations since Mervyn's death and resurrection. Litton initially misunderstood and thought the threat involved Viktorin, but Viktorin had told Litton about Mervyn being compromised while they were at Seamus's body. The group realized that Addison now possessed intelligence on all party activities and conversations since Mervyn's resurrection, including their plans to acquire the orb from Master Yussa Errenis, conversations with Bra'Thocrys and the City Watch, discussions about Targanas and Scarbosa, and mentions of the House of Five and dragon-related activities. Mervyn remained asleep downstairs in a hammock throughout the night. ## Dawn at the Skull's Eye Viktorin maintained watch through the night as the sea remained calm and the moon hung visible overhead. At dawn, he perceived a turtle-headed creature peering into the skull's eye socket and greeting him with a simple "Hello." The party remained inside the skull tavern with their petrified companion and their compromised artificer, the Moonweaver's warning of chaos looming now fully realized in the twin threats of a stone-frozen ally and an enemy scrying through their own teammate's senses. ## The Weed Among Flowers Master Yugi arrived at dawn, peering through the skull's eye socket to ask permission to enter. The ancient turtle introduced himself to Viktorin as the island's centuries-old inhabitant, drawn by the previous night's battle. He questioned Viktorin about the party's purpose, speaking in riddles and garden metaphors while assessing whether they walked a righteous path. When Marnok joined the conversation, Yugi pressed for details about the creatures threatening the world, eventually learning the party sought to dismantle the House of Five—ancient dragons whose combined power could rival the Calamity itself. Yugi sensed something wrong with Mervyn, warning Viktorin that the artificer's ears and eyes were not his own—a weed strangling the plant that needed pulling at the root. The revelation sparked urgent whispered planning, with Viktorin clarifying to Kithri and Marnok that Addison could see and hear through Mervyn, not through Viktorin as Litton still believed. The group realized Addison now possessed intelligence on their plans regarding Master Yussa Errenis's orb, conversations with the City Watch, and discussions about the House of Five. While Kithri trained with Yugi over three days, Viktorin occupied herself with other tasks. Mervyn successfully created liquid incense oil for Viktorin's spellwork after his attempt to fabricate diamonds failed. ## Moonlight and the Battlefield Viktorin meditated and found herself transported to the familiar dark space where the Moonweaver's voice greeted her. The deity explained that scrying failures stemmed from targets' willpower, not Viktorin's inadequacy, then revealed a second divine presence—the Archheart, whose masculine voice joined the Moonweaver's in granting new boons. Together they promised Viktorin the ability to attune to the Moonblade she had carried since the Hofstetter Ranch, powers she would access through their combined patronage. When Viktorin opened her eyes, she discovered her necklace had transformed, three blue lapis gems now sprouting beneath the golden disc as physical proof of her awakened vestige. Using Mervyn's liquid incense, Viktorin cast Legend Lore on Lady Kisara and found herself standing on an ancient battlefield during the Ca
Kithri's father, also called Vinn.
Kithri's mother living in Nikodranas, also called Nevira, Vera, or Yinra. She received a Sending spell from Viktorin asking how the family and business were doing and if anything was happening in town. She responded that business was back up and they were getting back to it slowly, though still a bit nervous, and expressed pride in Kithri's learning.
A crew member described as the most injured of four combatants. Captain Vodea Phorus led a crew of Stone Cold Pirates and commanded a ship that was captured by the party during battle in session 89. After his death at the hands of Kithri, his ship was repaired, renamed to the Second Wave by Sapphire with assistance from Marnok, and prepared to sail back to Nikodranas where it would be inherited by Phaedra.
A 4th-level spell cast by Kithri that creates a line of fire causing damage to creatures that fail a Dexterity saving throw of 15. During combat in the skull tavern, Marnok was told he would need to step into the wall of fire to gain advantage on an attack against an enemy at close range.
A ritual spell cast on the party and Phaedra to enable underwater breathing during their approach to Rumblecusp. The spell was cast aboard Jack Sapphire's ship before the party plunged into the ocean and descended toward the island. While there was some uncertainty during the casting about the spell's duration—with discussion of both 8 hours and 24 hours—the spell granted Water Breathing to the group. Those with the spell were able to speak to each other underwater without sounding like murlocs, maintaining normal communication while submerged.
A location considered by the party as a potential misdirection destination to feed false information to Addison through Mervyn.
An inn in what appears to be Nikodranas where the party meets Jaxxeth Fire. Jack Sapphire, a sapphire dragon operating undercover, frequents this location where he sits down with the party and proposes games to exchange information over drinks while maintaining a drunken persona.
Jet black hops harvested from the Black Dragonflower; enough to make one barrel of beer.
A character whose current location is unknown; has been missing or absent from recent party activities. Yinra has teamed up with Addison, a vampire from the temple. Yinra leads a group that includes companions and psycho wolves. Addison can see and hear through Mervyn, giving Yinra and Addison intelligence on the party's plans regarding Master Yussa Errenis's orb, conversations with the City Watch, and discussions about the House of Five. Yinra and Addison are not welcome in Nikodranas, where people are on watch for them. The party plans a final confrontation with Yinra and Addison once their current tasks are complete.
A group of four armored combatants consisting of one purple magic-user and three fighters; includes one gold-colored and two red-colored members. They serve as bodyguards for Skadrisan and hunt as a pack in combat.
A rare dragon type; very few have seen one and fewer have lived to tell the tale.