Episode 2, Part 1: The Three Cases

By Mercy Eva Parson

## Chapter One:

Tober 13, 1945, a Friday morning, marked a significant day for The Golden Thorn Team. They were in possession of 500 Silver Unicorns and faced three intriguing cases: "The Echoes of the Lost," "The Howls of Barsano Woodlan," and "Whispers in Willow Rock."

"The Echoes of the Lost," declared Captain Veloris, his authoritative voice cutting through the air. "We need to delve into the unsettling disappearances of children endowed with psychic abilities. The elusive clues might be concealed within the psychic echoes they've left behind. Furthermore, Karen, possessing psychic abilities herself and being of a tender age, might inadvertently become a target in this mysterious scheme."

Crux, his Tengu heritage emphasizing keen insight and intuition, respectfully voiced his disagreement with the Captain's decision. "Captain Veloris," he began, "while investigating the disappearances of psychic children is undoubtedly crucial, I can't help but feel that 'Whispers in Willow Rock' holds a deeper intrigue. The enigmatic occurrences in that town seem to carry an allure that might lead us to a more profound understanding of the mysterious forces at play."

He continued, "As for the psychic children, perhaps their abilities could act as a safeguard. If we bring them into the fold of our investigation, they might sense any impending danger and provide us with an added layer of protection. It's a risk, but it could be a strategic advantage in uncovering the truth behind these unsettling events."

Crux's perspective added a new dimension to the team's deliberations, presenting an alternative path that might lead them to a more profound revelation. Captain Veloris pondered these words, recognizing the validity of Crux's insights, and the Golden Thorn stood at a crossroads, tasked with deciding which enigma to pursue first.

> (Narrator's Notes) The term "psychic" within the realms of Pneumanor encompasses a rich tapestry of abilities, extending far beyond mere foresight or mind-reading. In this extraordinary world, individuals with psychic talents wield a diverse array of powers, including telepathy, telekinesis, levitation, and even manipulation of time and reflections. Karen Aylwood, touched by the mysterious energies of the mirror realm, stands as a testament to the breadth and depth of these extraordinary gifts.
>
>

It was Zier Selheren who spoke up and said, "I side with the Captain." His declaration resonated through the room, a testament to his unwavering loyalty to Captain Veloris. Deep down, Zier harbored a desire to pursue the Howls of Barsano Woodlan, fueled by the thrill of hunting werewolves. Yet, his inclination to align with the Captain's decisions often overruled his personal preferences, a trait that had earned him a reputation as something of a "suck up."

Crux, the team's seasoned investigator, responded to Zier's statement with a roll of his eyes and a dry remark, "Shocker." The camaraderie between Zier and Captain Veloris had become a predictable aspect of their interactions, a dynamic that, while occasionally laced with subtle tension, formed a consistent backdrop to their endeavors.

Theo Bellwright's voice, carrying a tone of consideration and concern, broke the brief silence that followed Zier's declaration. "I am for Whispers in Willow Rock," he stated, his gaze thoughtful. "While I share the concern for the children in 'The Echoes of the Lost' case, I must admit, that a continent-wide search doesn't sit well with me. We are not monsters, but I am not keen on such an expansive endeavor."

Turning his attention to the prospect of "The Howls of Barsano Woodlan," Theo's disinterest was evident. "Furies are such strange creatures," he mused, glancing toward Crux. "No offense, my dear friend."

Crux, acknowledging Theo's comment with a wry smile, responded, "None taken, Theo. Furies are indeed peculiar entities, not for everyone's taste."

The divergence in opinions within The Golden Thorn Team became more pronounced, each member advocating for their preferred investigation. The dynamics of their interactions set the stage for a decision that would shape the trajectory of their quest, as the team grappled with balancing their personal inclinations, the safety of the children, and the enigmatic challenges posed by the cases at hand.

Captain Veloris, noting the diverse opinions within the team, once again made his case for The Echoes of the Lost. "We should prioritize this investigation," he asserted, his authoritative tone carrying weight. "Starting in New Garland is strategic. One of the victims hails from our very city, and the echoes of their disappearance may lead us to new leads right here."

His concern for Karen was palpable. "And let's not forget, Karen's unique abilities make her a potential target. By addressing 'The Echoes of the Lost' promptly, we not only protect the children but also mitigate any risks to our own."

The room fell into a contemplative hush as the team absorbed Captain Veloris's reasoning. The weight of their decision lingered in the air, the balance between personal inclinations and strategic considerations tipping delicately. In the end, the fate of The Golden Thorn Team's next investigation rested on the collective choices of these exceptional individuals, bound by duty, loyalty, and the mysteries that awaited them.

Crux, growing impatient and hungry, broke the impasse with a declaration. "Well, it's obvious that we won't come to a decision at this moment," he remarked, his tone tinged with a hint of boredom. "Since there are two in favor of 'Whispers in Willow Rock,' I'm going to go shopping and then head home. Anyone interested can catch up with me later at the Brown Bunny for drinks."

With that, Crux made his exit, leaving the rest of The Golden Thorn Team to ponder their choices. His departure introduced a momentary pause, the room filled with a sense of unresolved tension and the anticipation of a decision yet to be made. As the remaining members contemplated their options, the fate of their next investigation hung in the balance, awaiting the consensus that would propel them forward into the mysteries that awaited them.

## Chapter Two:

Crux's journey led him through the bustling Business District, a hub of commerce and activity in New Garland. The Market, a lively center of trade, offered a variety of goods, and Crux wasted no time in securing his supplies. He purchased Cold-Iron Arrows, Berries, and mixed vegetations, each item carefully chosen to suit his needs for the upcoming challenges.

Leaving the Business District, Crux navigated the city's winding pathways, traversing the 2-mile distance to the Wo Serin District. This lush, forested area, located on the southwest side of the city, held a unique charm. Inhabited by Elves, Tengu, Kitsune, and other Demi-Humans, the district's buildings integrated seamlessly with the giant trees, creating a breathtaking fusion of nature and architecture.

As Crux entered the Wo Serin District, he felt the shift in ambiance, the air thick with the fragrance of blooming flowers and the rustle of leaves. The remarkable structures, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings, spoke to the Elves' and Demi-Humans' deep connection with their environment. It was a serene contrast to the hustle and bustle of the Business District.

Crux approached his makeshift dwelling, a small shack nestled within the branches of a mighty tree. It was more than just a place to spend the night; it was a communal space shared with distant relatives and friends, a gathering point in the heart of the Wo Serin District.

Upon entering, Crux was greeted by his cousin Zereo, who inquired about his day's work. "Hey Crux, how was work?" Zereo asked, eyeing the bags from the market. "Did you bring any bread?"

Crux, unloading his supplies, responded sternly, "Work was fine, and I told you, bread is not good for you."

Zereo, looking a bit ashamed, confessed, "But the lady in the park gives us some, and it's so good."

Crux, now visibly outraged, scolded, "I told you not to take bread from her. It's demeaning."

Zereo, looking a bit hurt, responded, "I'm sorry, cousin. I know it's not healthy, but it tastes so good. I also understand that Humans and Elves, to some extent, look down on us. It's a hard life for Demi-Humans. Besides, you're the only one with a job."

Crux, feeling a pang of guilt for his earlier outburst, softened his tone. "No, it's fine, Zereo. And not all Elves and Humans are bad. I work with some good ones. I like Theo a lot." Then, with a more compassionate voice, Crux inquired, "You still haven't been able to find any work?"

Zereo sighed, "No. People are still struggling after the war. We were told things would pick up, but for now, nothing."

Crux, reassuring, said, "I am sure things will pick up. I will ask around myself; maybe I can find you something."

Zereo's face lit up with hope. "Really? You think so? It would be great if you could."

Crux nodded affirmatively. "I will see what I can do. For now, see if you can find some manual labor, custodial work, or maybe sanitation. Jobs some of the 'higher' races don't want to touch."

Zereo considered the suggestion. "Good idea."

After that, Crux gathered with the other Tengu inhabitants of the shack, recounting the story of his recent adventure in the Holloway House. He described the haunting apparitions, Zier's discovery of a cursed spyglass, Theo's haunting piano performance, and the poignant dance of the ghosts of Edmund Holloway and his beloved Elenore into the afterlife. Then, with a heavy heart, he shared how the team had to resort to burning down the house due to the malevolent entity within.

After concluding the story, Crux left the shack to meet his team at the Brown Bunny. Before heading to the club, he took a detour south to the Shrine of Faria'el, the NG goddess of Animals, Nature, Plants, and Growth. Crux performed a ritual offering, tossing a silver unicorn coin into the beautiful fountain in front of the shrine.

Standing before the shrine, he asked Faria'el for a blessing, his words carried by the wind through the sacred grove. With a sense of reverence, he then turned northeast, making his way to the Brown Bunny, Gentlemen's Club. As Crux headed north he spotted a male elf named Ryo Torrora. Seizing the opportunity, Crux approached Ryo and inquired about potential job opportunities.

"Hello there," Crux greeted Ryo. "I'm in need of work. Do you know of any opportunities in the area?"

Ryo Torrora, a helpful elf, shared some information. "Well, there's a Lumber Company not far from here. They were looking for help, but they were recently attacked by werewolves. It might be worth checking with them, though."

Grateful for the lead, Crux thanked Ryo and left the shrine, his mind now contemplating the potential dangers that might await him in the employment of the Lumber Company. The atmosphere shifted from the tranquility of the shrine to the liveliness of the city as Crux navigated the winding paths toward the meeting place, eager to rejoin his team and delve into the mysteries that awaited them.

## Chapter Three:

> Now it is here that I have to quote the famous philosopher Philo Nexus, who said, "In the tapestry of existence, El bestowed upon moral beings the threads of beauty, wisdom, and strength, crafting them with divine artistry. Yet, in the shadows, Zer-el whispered temptations, weaving threads of corruption into the very fabric of their souls." He also said, "In the mosaic of mortality, flaws are the unique brushstrokes that render each individual a masterpiece, for it is through imperfections that the beauty of our shared journey unfolds."
>
>
> However, his detractors noted that Nexus also uttered whimsical statements often when he was under the influence of a nasty spell. "When the moon tickles the belly button of time, only then do we truly fathom the intergalactic disco of existential enlightenment." Regardless, the essence of his teachings remained: flaws were an integral part of the mortal experience, contributing to the intricate beauty of our shared journey.
>
>
>
> In the realm of The Golden Thorn Team, these philosophical reflections found resonance. Each member, like the flawed heroes of any epic tale, carried imperfections that added depth to their characters. As they faced the mysteries of Pneumanor, it was essential to remember that their flaws, like unique brushstrokes, contributed to the unfolding narrative, shaping their destinies in ways both profound and unpredictable.
>
>

Theo stumbled down the street, the morning sun casting its golden glow on the city. It was around 9:00, and despite having received the payment of 500 SP, Theo had promptly used it on booze. By this point, he was very, very drunk. Despite his inebriation, it was quite remarkable that Theo managed to remember that the gang was meeting at the Brown Bunny. In his somewhat hazy state, he navigated the streets with a surprising level of coherence, eventually finding his way to the club, almost on time. The resilience of his memory in the face of intoxication was a testament to Theo's uncanny ability to navigate the city even under the influence.

Zier stood outside the Brown Bunny, attempting to exude an air of nonchalance, but failing in his attempt. Unbeknownst to many, Zier harbored a secret—he was a regular at the Brown Bunny. This fact, which might have been deemed incongruous for a member of both the Panacea Knights and The Society of the Golden Thorn, as well as a veteran of the War, was a source of shame for him. He felt a sense of duty to rise above what he perceived as mere carnal pleasures.

However, Zier had another secret, a darker one. He enjoyed looking—at many things, particularly at females and through the spyglass he kept in his pocket. It was the spyglass that troubled him the most; he was becoming obsessed with it. Yet, the fear lingered—what if that dark version of himself was closer than he thought? He had to look, to see, even if just for a moment...

Just as Zier was succumbing to the pull of the spyglass, Theo and Crux arrived at the scene, unknowingly interrupting his internal struggle.

"Hello, fellows!" Zier exclaimed somewhat enthusiastically.

"Whoa there, Zier," Theo replied with a sudden headache, "Not so loud, my friend."

Zier, noticing Theo's state, inquired, "Theo, are you drunk?"

Theo, with a bit of a slur, responded, "Well, I am not not drunk."

Crux chimed in, "Theo, it's 9 in the morning."

Theo, staring past Crux, remarked, "You are right, we need to do more drinking. Into the club!"

And with that, the trio made their way into the Brown Bunny, where the secrets, struggles, and camaraderie of The Golden Thorn Team would continue to unfold amidst the ambiance of the Gentlemen's Club.

Inside the Brown Bunny, the atmosphere exuded a high-class ambiance. The girls, hailing from various races—humans, elves, tiefling, tengu, catfolk, and kitsune—were all attired in a uniform brown one-piece outfit. A fluffy tail adorned their backside, even if they already had a tail of their own, and brown bunny ears adorned the tops of their heads. This peculiar attire, though fitting for some, looked rather strange on certain Demi-humans, adding a touch of whimsy to the otherwise sophisticated setting. The diverse clientele of the Gentlemen's Club continued their revelries, the air filled with laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses as The Golden Thorn Team settled into their surroundings.

Crux led his way to a corner where some of the tengu females were engaged in a dance. To Theo and Zier, the sight of the girls lifting wings and tail feathers seemed rather peculiar. However, to Crux, who was more familiar with tengu culture, these girls were performing a rather risqué mating dance.

As the gang settled into their seats, Crux took charge and ordered drinks for the trio. "Mai Tai's for me and the boys!" he declared.

Mai Tais held a special significance for the tengu, having been invented by their kind. The vibrant color and fruity flavor of the drink were a source of enjoyment for the tengu, symbolizing a unique aspect of their culture and preferences.

While the drinks were being prepared, Crux leaned back in his chair and observed the ongoing dance of the tengu girls. The rhythmic movements, the lift of wings, and the display of tail feathers spoke a language of courtship and tradition. It was more than a mere performance; it was an expression of identity and connection to their heritage.

In a reflective monologue, Crux shared his thoughts on the dance. "You see, this dance goes beyond mere entertainment. It's a celebration of our roots, a connection to our ancestors. The lift of wings, the twirl of feathers—it tells a story of courtship, of tradition passed down through generations. It's a reminder of who we are and where we come from, a moment of pride in our tengu heritage."

As Crux spoke, there was a sense of reverence in his words, an acknowledgment of the cultural significance woven into the fabric of the dance. The Brown Bunny, with its eclectic clientele and diverse performances, became a stage where the tales of Pneumanor unfolded, revealing the rich tapestry of its inhabitants.

"Also it is hot as heck!"

A catfolk waitress gracefully approached, carrying the Mai Tais for Crux and the boys. As she set the drinks on the table, she winked at Zeir, a familiarity that seemed to go beyond the usual customer-server relationship. "Hey Zier, glad to see you back," she purred.

Zier, blushing, responded in a small voice, "You're looking nice, Umeko." She smiled back over her shoulder, her hips swaying as she walked away.

Noticing Zier's interaction, Crux inquired, "Do you come here often, Zier?"

"I don't want to talk about it," Zier replied, clearly embarrassed, especially as a tiefling girl waved at him.

Crux, sensing Zier's discomfort, turned to the tiefling and said, "Miss, get my friend here a Mai Tai, please."

Zier, who had barely sipped from his first drink, protested, "Really, that is unnecessary."

Crux asserted, "Yes, it is. These girls are happy to see you back." The camaraderie and familiarity within the Brown Bunny seemed to envelop Zier, revealing a side of him that extended beyond the usual stoic demeanor of the Panacea Knight.

Crux, having ordered more Mai Tais, addressed the group, "You know, I've given it some more thought, and I think we should tackle the werewolf case."

Zier, looking up hopefully, inquired, "Really? You do? What changed your mind?"

Crux explained, "Well, I was inquiring earlier today about some jobs for my family and friends, and an elf told me about a lumber company that had been attacked by werewolves. I think it might be a more pressing matter than I had earlier believed."

Theo, emerging from a brief nap, chimed in, "I agree, let us give the furries a chance!"

Zier, jumping at Theo's words, added, "Well, I mean, I would like to investigate it, but the Captain..."

Theo interrupted, "Don't worry about Veloris. He's just thinking about the girl. And yes, we want to protect the children, that goes without saying. But the furries are dangerous, with their kinks and yiffing and all."

Zier, staring in bewilderment at Theo, responded, "Right, well, we will have to talk to the Captain about that."

Theo, with a mischievous grin, declared, "We will, good Zeir. Fire, Zier. In due time. But for now, we drink!"

Crux ordered more Mai Tais, which were promptly delivered to the tables. Then, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small vial of red powder. "Remember this?"

It was the Balsean he had taken from The Holloway House the night before. The Balsean Crystal, a dangerous and illegal alchemical substance, had gained notoriety for its highly addictive and mind-altering effects. Produced in clandestine labs and often sold on the black market, this crystal-like substance was a source of concern for authorities and a temptation for those seeking intense experiences.

> Remember, we all have flaws.
>
>

Zier nodded, saying, "I was just thinking of that."

Crux responded, "Oh yeah? Great minds think alike, they say. Well, shall we?"

Zier hesitated, "I mean, we are kind of on duty..."

Theo, laughing at Zier's use of the word "duty," chimed in, "Come on, Zier, loosen up."

Zier, doing just that, said, "Fine. I mean, you only live once, right?"

Theo, with a playful smirk, added, "Well, unless you come back as undead, reanimated, resurrected, or wished back to life. I personally know of a chap who was wished back no less than four times. Never right after that, poor guy."

Of course, we won't delve into any illegal activities here. However, it is worth noting that, after the trio encountered the Balsean, the atmosphere around them began to shift. Colors seemed more vibrant, and they experienced sensations they hadn't before.

In the altered state induced by the Balsean, the trio found themselves contemplating their next moves. The idea of pursuing the werewolf case, which had initially gained support, now faced skepticism. Absolutely, the altered state induced by the Balsean might have clouded their judgment and awareness. In their usual state of mind, the trio might have been more perceptive and noticed the subtle signs of someone showing interest in them, as well as the fact that they were being watched. The consequences of their choices, influenced by both the Balsean and the mysterious watcher, would likely unfold in ways they couldn't anticipate.

## Chapter Four:

Back at the HQ, Veloris waited patiently for Karen to be done with her studies and the tests that the Golden Thorn had been conducting on her due to her unique situation.

Karen entered, looking tired but overall healthy and happy to see Veloris. "Hey," she greeted, smiling at the wizard.

"How are your studies?" Veloris asked politely.

"Fine. It was history. A lot has changed in 30 years," she said. "Where is everyone else? Have you guys decided to take a case? Is it the missing children one?"

"I'm afraid that we have not, and the missing children case is not looking likely," Veloris replied.

"Where are they now?" Karen asked.

"The Brown Bunny. It's, well, it is a Gentlemen's Club."

"Oh," Karen blushed. "I see. They all went?"

"Yes."

Karen spoke slowly, "I do like them, I think. Theo smells... Like booze. But he is nice... Zier, he is good looking. He is dark and mysterious."

Veloris, shaking his head, responded, "Yeah, I do not want to hear that." Veloris had a brotherly relationship with Karen, and discussions about the romantic interests of her team members felt a bit awkward.

"It is Crux who is giving me the most opposition," Veloris said, his tone a bit cold.

"He is intelligent," Karen remarked, "investigator's intuition and all."

"True," Veloris conceded, "but I am concerned..."

"You do not have to worry about me, Veloris. I will be fine. I will stay by your side and be fine."

"We will have to take turns looking after you. All of us, the whole group."

"Veloris," Karen smiled at the wizard, "it will be okay. Speaking of the group..."

A carriage pulled up to the front of the HQ. Tied to the back was Theo, trailing a stream of vomit. Crux and Zier stumbled from the cabin of the carriage, clearly not in the best state. The sight of their less-than-sober teammates prompted a mix of concern and amusement from Karen and Veloris.

"Well, Craptian," Crux said, addressing Veloris, "We have made our decision. We will do the werewolf case."

"Filthy furries," Theo muttered as Zier tried to untie him.

"Yes, the furrie filthies," Crux said, still under the influence.

"How much did you guys drink?" Veloris asked. "It is still morning, not even noon yet. You guys are going to have to get some rest before we can discuss the next case."

With that, Veloris and Karen helped the others to sleeping quarters and settled them on some cots. The afternoon went by, and the three slept away. They did not wake until the evening.

As they slept, Karen and Veloris talked, reflecting on the challenges ahead and the decisions made by the group. Their conversation delved into the complexities of the upcoming werewolf case and the potential dangers that awaited them in the Woodlands of Barsano. The camaraderie between the two, forged through shared experiences and a commitment to their mission, provided a steadying influence amid the unpredictable nature of their team.

## Chapter Five:

As the trio awoke and sobered up, the Golden Thorn team gathered to discuss their next move. The atmosphere in the room was a blend of seriousness and lingering effects from the earlier revelry.

Veloris, the team leader, spoke first, "Alright, let's get down to business. The werewolf case. I want to hear your thoughts."

Crux, now more composed, leaned forward, "We've got a lead from Ryo about a lumber company that got attacked. It might be related to the werewolf pack in Barsano Woodlan. I think it's worth checking out."

Theo, nursing a mild headache, chimed in, "Agreed. I've tangled with werewolves before. They're not to be underestimated. Plus, it adds a layer of danger and mystery to our investigation."

Zier, looking more serious than his usual self, added, "I've been itching for some action, and hunting werewolves sounds like a good challenge. I say we go for it."

Veloris nodded, "Karen, what do you think?"

Karen, with a determined look, replied, "I trust your judgment, Veloris. If you think this is the right direction, I'm with you."

Veloris then summarized, "Alright, it's settled. We focus on the Howls of Barsano Woodlan. Let's gather more information, make a plan, and head out at first light. We need to be prepared for anything. This won't be a walk in the park."

With their decision made, the Golden Thorn team set their sights on the challenges that awaited them in Barsano Woodlan, ready to face the mysteries and dangers that lurked in the shadows of the sprawling forest.

The Golden Thorn team's first stop was to see Alistair Greycastle - Inventor Extraordinaire for the Golden Thorn. Alistair greeted the team with his usual eccentricity, "Hey, how is your sperm? You don't feel sterile, do you?"

Crux, slightly taken aback, replied, "Umm, can't you tell?"

Alistair grinned mischievously, "Oh yeah, you will be able to tell." His playful demeanor hinted at the unconventional and often unpredictable nature of the inventions and experiments that took place in Alistair's workshop.

"Well, it seems like it was just the Rougarous that were sterilized then. Good," Alistair said with satisfaction. "Well, how did the equipment work?"

Zier placed the Proton Pack on a table, and Crux explained, "It worked well. We caught a dancer."

Alistair grinned, "You caught a spirit?"

"Yes."

Alistair examined the pack, "Great, I will study it and give you the information."

Crux, with a worried question, asked, "What are you going to do to it?"

"Study the spirit, find out how it crossed into the material realm, who it was before it died, and then I will send it back to the spirit realm," Alistair explained matter-of-factly but not unkindly.

"Oh, good," Crux said, now reassured.

Alistair continued, "How did the other equipment work? The goggles, the Aetherial Resonance Detector?"

"It worked great," Zier said.

"Great!" Alistair exclaimed, "I have something for you. Because you completed the mission, you are now brought into full connection." He handed each of the team members a Golden Thorn amulet. This exquisite amulet was adorned with a delicately crafted golden thorn, its edges shimmering with an ethereal glow. The amulet exuded an aura of tranquility and vitality, and those who wore it could feel a gentle warmth emanating from the thorn's intricate design.

Veloris asked, "What can you tell us about werewolves?"

Alistair looked around his lab and found a monster manual. Flipping through the pages, he then began to read, "The curse of the werewolf—known as lycanthropy to many—instills in its carriers the hungry bloodlust and predatory instincts of the wolf. Werewolves tend to dwell on the fringes of society or in small settlements where, in their humanoid forms, they work as laborers, hunters, farmers, or trappers. At night, however, these same villagers transform into violent killers and sadistic stalkers who prey on their neighbors. Werewolves are the quintessential werecreature, and the first that comes to mind when most people speak of such beings.

Although most werewolves hide their curse by adopting solitary lifestyles, some retain the pack mentality of true wolves. A small group of such werewolves typically forms a family-like pack, with the eldest or most powerful serving as the leader; new pack mates are hand-chosen and inculcated into the family as its influence grows."

Veloris asked, "Do you have any weapons that will help us fight against them?"

Alistair replied, "Well, silver works well."

Crux added, "I have some silver arrows."

"Yeah, that will work nicely," Alistair said, "I don't really have anything at the moment that will help. I am working on a new pick for Zier; it would be helpful against werewolves. It will take a few days to finish, though. I will move it up on my priorities."

"Thanks."

The party left Alistair's lab and went to see Seraphina Nightshade, the Golden Thorn Occult Ritualist, and Seer.

## Chapter Six:

As the party entered Seraphina's room, they were met with a mysterious mist.

Seraphina Nightshade was a striking figure, her appearance a captivating blend of otherworldly beauty and enigmatic charm. Her dark brown skin formed a rich canvas for the intricate tapestry of her features. Atop her head, she proudly bore two sets of horns, each a testament to her tiefling heritage. The topmost pair, long and graceful, reminiscent of a goat's, added an elegant and almost regal quality to her presence. Below, the thicker, curling horns of a ram provided a sense of strength and determination.

Her raven-black hair crowned her head in a bushy and untamed mane, giving her an air of wild elegance. But it was her violet eyes that truly captivated those who met her. They seemed to hold a touch of the mysterious beyond, a glimpse into the ethereal realm she was so deeply connected to.

In her attire, Seraphina often donned garments adorned with intricate patterns and symbols associated with divination and the arcane. Her clothing was a reflection of her mystical pursuits, a visual manifestation of her dedication to unraveling the secrets of the supernatural.

When she moved, it was with an ethereal grace that left an indelible impression on those who witnessed it. There was an otherworldly quality to her every step, a reminder of the mystical powers she wielded and the enigmatic nature of the forces she sought to understand. Seraphina Nightshade was a living testament to the beauty and intrigue that could be found in the realm of the arcane and the supernatural.

The party was stunned by her beauty and ethereal, haunting presence. "How may I help you?" she asked.

Zier lifted up the Cursed Spyglass, "We found this in the Holloway House."

Seraphina looked over the object, not touching it, "This is the Abyssal Ocular. It is a dark and malevolent artifact. In a bygone era, House Varken was a noble family known for their insatiable thirst for knowledge. Their patriarch, Lord Haldon Varken, obtained the Abyssal Ocular in his quest for forbidden secrets. As he gazed through the cursed spyglass, his obsession consumed him, leading House Varken to ruin. The once-mighty family became a shadow of its former self, haunted by madness and despair."

She looked over to the party members, "Have any of you looked into the spyglass?"

Zier replied, "I have."

Seraphina traced Zier's outline with her hands, not touching him, her eyes closed. "The Taint of the Abyss is on you. Dark Obsession is the curse. Whispers of the Abyss." Her words were haunting.

Veloris chimed in, "Would the artifact have found its way to The Highlands?"

Seraphina turned her gaze upon him, "Sir Aldric, a valiant knight, uncovered the spyglass in the depths of a forsaken crypt. He was said to have brought it there, overwhelmed by vampires. He died, and the spyglass was lost. How did it end up here?"

Veloris replied, "It is a long story, but we found it."

Crux added, "Yes, by a Thin Place."

Seraphina spoke up, "A Thin place you say? Troubling."

Veloris asked, "Why would Sir Aldric have brought it to The Highlands?"

Seraphina thought for a moment, "He thought that he could cleanse the artifact with Vampire's Blood because of the red lens."

Veloris looked confused, "That was a leap. All blood is red."

Seraphina smirked, "I didn't say he was right. Some say he went mad."

Crux asked, "Should we leave the spyglass with you?"

Seraphina chuckled, "No, not at all. I do not want to have my throat slit by your friend. If I had it, he would want it. He is obsessed with it. He would do anything to get it back. It is best if he has it, though not to use it."

The whole time, Zier was thinking out loud, saying, "Should I look through it?" and "What if it is closer?" His teammates eyed him with concern.

Crux then showed the Mystical Artefact Pendant he had found. "What about this?"

Seraphina looked it over. "While the Mystical Artefact Pendant grants you the ability to interact with the ethereal plane, it also draws the attention of otherworldly entities. Whenever you use the pendant's abilities, there is a small chance that a malevolent ethereal entity becomes aware of your presence. The entity may attempt to communicate, manipulate, or confront you, depending on its disposition."

This information wasn't new to Crux, but he had hoped for a darker story behind the pendant. Disappointed, he wondered if there was anything else they needed to discuss with Seraphina.

Crux said, "What would happen if he contracted the werewolf curse? Is there a cure?"

Seraphina, with a graceful motion of her hand, summoned an ancient-looking tome from the ether. The book had an aura of arcane energy, and its cover was adorned with mystical symbols that seemed to shift and writhe as if imbued with a life of their own. The pages within were weathered and yellowed, bearing the weight of countless years of esoteric knowledge.

As she opened the book to reveal its contents, the air around them seemed to hum with latent magic. The text within was written in an elegant script, and the illustrations depicted intricate diagrams, mystical symbols, and depictions of otherworldly creatures. It was a grimoire of the occult, a repository of secrets that transcended the boundaries of the mundane.

Seraphina's eyes, tinged with the glow of the arcane, scanned the pages with an expert ease. The words seemed to respond to her silent command, revealing the hidden knowledge within the ancient tome. The book served as a conduit to the accumulated wisdom of ages, a testament to the ties between Seraphina and the arcane forces she communed with.

In the flickering light of her room, the mystic ambiance created by the book added an otherworldly dimension to their surroundings. It was a glimpse into the vast realm of magic and mysteries that Seraphina Nightshade, the Golden Thorn's Occult Ritualist and Seer, navigated with profound expertise.

Seraphina continued, "The Ritual of the Silver Eclipse is a complex and perilous undertaking, requiring the coordination of various rare and mystical elements. The moonlit silver, elderwood sap, and the werewolf's own blood play essential roles in the ritual, representing purification, connection with nature, and personal sacrifice, respectively."

She gestured to the book, "The steps involved in the ritual demand not only physical prowess but also a deep spiritual journey. Confronting the beast within is a metaphorical representation of acknowledging one's inner struggles and embracing the need for redemption. The convergence of the full moon's eclipse and the elderwood sap creates a potent blend of celestial and natural energies, facilitating the cure."

Crux nodded, absorbing the information. He then asked, "How rare is elderwood sap? And do we need to find the ancient elderwood tree ourselves?"

Seraphina replied, "Elderwood sap is indeed a rare substance, and its acquisition involves a perilous journey into the heart of the ancient Elderwood forest. The guardians of the forest, ethereal beings tied to the essence of the elderwood, guide those deemed worthy to the oldest tree in the grove, where the sap can be extracted. It's not a task for the faint-hearted, as the forest is known to test the intentions and purity of those who seek its secrets."

Crux pondered the challenges ahead but was determined to explore every possible option for the well-being of his companions. The information provided by Seraphina was invaluable, and the party now had a clearer understanding of the complexities involved in curing lycanthropy.

To Be Continued...