Cold Winds of Cessunaler

**Cold Winds of Cessunaler** is the twenty fourth episode of *Another Bad Side Quest*. The Order of Restoration leaves Ob's mansion and hatches a plan to get his spellbook and glaive from the Baron of Cessunaler.

## Cold Winds of Cessunaler

### **Synopsis**

**Pre-Show Shenanigans**

* ABSQ's main character art is done by @laniekun, the world map of Palamoa by @TheBrassBailey and ABSQ logo commissioned by @KacperGilkaArt
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### **Part One**

The scene opened as RX led Quincy to the library, all while he happily gushed about "book master", the sand genasi servant that helped RX find books. Quincy entered the library, a rounded room with three levels worth of bookcases on every wall, and found stacks of books gathered on a long table modelled to look like an army preparing to lay seige on a castle, also made of books, along with a statue of what looked to be a construct of some kind also made of books. RX waved to Book Master, who stood ready to assist as he waved back, as RX introduced him to Quincy. Quincy noted RX seemed to have been busy and RX replied this was the first time he had not kept track of the time since being powered on. RX added that he would be sad to leave the mansion, referring it to it questioningly as Ob's mind and Quincy replied that she didn't like to think about it too much. RX retorted to the contrary that he would love to know more, but there was too much to discover in the library, having read about people like him.

RX explained he had found many books on constructs and went on to tell Quincy what he has found. He had learned that when the founders of Principality of Pathu left the Skorian Federation, prior to becoming the Skorian Empire, they started to build *Vayilcor* and within it's area and main harbor was filled by a ship, *The Farrier's Ferryman,* which was made of a group of travellers from *Gilesha*, the city of *Gravenfall* specifically. Onboard were two people in particular who were responsible for making *Vayilcor* what it was currently; Captain Cedric Farrier, who had built the ship and claimed to be bound to the sky industry, and Marcus Davenport, a young elvish man who started the PRC, *Propulsion & Revolution Company* and helped create *Vayilcor's* first construct. This construct was a large humanoid metal creation named Figero, who could lift and break heavy objects but little capacity passed that. Within time, high grade Artificers who became renowned for their understanding of constructs and how they worked became known as *Technomancers*, who then gained resources to work on constructs more assisting in nature. Even as constructs became more advanced and complex, they were still limited in that they could only do what their creators programmed with no independent thought, no need for feeling or emotion.

RX explained he was in a very strange jigsaw puzzle and Quincy agreed he was in a very gray area. RX stated it was obvious he was built by someone named Twynn Roderick, but wondered why, why he was built and why he specifically could do so much more than other constructs. Quincy said that they thought everyone wondered why they were here noting that RX could at least get a more direct answer than others. RX replied his was far from direct, that at least everyone else has past experience to draw upon and he had only a name to go off of, Twynn, who was a technomancer who built him. Quincy pointed out that had some leads, that the name Twynn was a good start and Jelly Bean mentioned Technomancers while he was them and that they resided in *Vayilcor*. RX said that unfortunately they had been dragged far away from there and that Jelly Bean had also said Twynn was supposed to be dead. Quincy pointed out that Tabernacle was also *supposed* to be dead and yet he was still around. On mentioning him they soon believed they heard a laugh in the distance and RX stated Tabernacle had taught him what it meant to be "creeped out" in their time together.

Quincy said at least he was learning new things and RX agreed that he was learning more about what he could do as he and activated *Telekinetic Movement* to float a book from one of his dioramas from the foot of his construct statue, knocking it over to him. He then activated *Telekinetic Movement* on another book that had been the leader of his army, floated it over his palm and cast *Shocking Grasp* them, spurring Quincy to stop him before shrugging it off as they were not "real" books. RX asked aloud why he was capable of this and when Quincy pointed out RX's claim he was built to be a bodyguard RX agreed but wondered for who and why. He admitted he had been flooded with questions he could not answer but that he kept asking them. Quincy commented that they wished they could give him answers and RX wished so too. RX then told Quincy he envied animals, having few questions to answer and wished he could learn something of that lifestyle. Quincy wondered if he was sure of that and RX admitted he wasn't sure he would want something so simple but noted he could learn from them as they seemed to have it figured out.

Quincy told RX that while he was searching for answers, that she and the others, she believed, would help him in any way they could to find them with him. They also wared them that the bane of living with emotion and thought was that some questions would always go unanswered. RX then asked if Quincy might help him with something, to recruit an animal for "research purposes". Quincy called the request concerning and asked for clarification to which RX explains he wished for something similar to how Hobble was for Tabernacle. Quincy queried if he wished for a friend and RX agreed, noting a relationship something similar to Book Master however less talented. RX leant in to say he suspected Book Master could juggle, which seemed to amuse Quincy before she moved on to say it seemed RX wanted a pet. Quincy wondered if RX wished for a pet for just companionship or possibly to be more useful, citing how Hobble was sometimes used for simple tasks. RX voiced that he didn't see how Hobble could be useful with only three legs and Quincy stated if wanted a pet he could get one but recommended something more sturdy and RX made a short check-list entailing something with four legs at least and non-detachable skin. On the topic of pets, Quincy retold a little of how she met someone on the road who claimed to have domesticated a hell hound and when asked described how they were large dogs supposedly from the *Nine Hells*.

Quincy admired the state of the library and RX replied Ob seemed to have everything being the champion of a knowledge related God. Quincy noted that RX had already asked such big questions of himself and wondered if there was anything else he wished to know while they were still there. RX looked around the room on the search for any book relating to himself, with Quincy in tow, but instead found a thin book on Twynn Roderick, his creator, which stated that he was a Yuan-ti from *Vayilcor* who most his life worked to progress construct's abilities, acted as the record keeper and that after his 67 years as a Technomancer dropped off the face of the earth, with no record of him leaving the city or dying, just simply was gone. Quincy called it an impressive find and RX agreed but also disagreed. RX pointed out that there were 14 stamps on his crate when they powered him on, with one of them being *Vayilcor*. Quincy reflected and explained to RX that before they powered him on Quincy and Killian met in the cargo hold and had a tense conversation considering they had both snuck onto a ship they should not have been on. RX pointed out it was obvious as Quincy had called Killian "asshole" for the entire first day they knew each other and Quincy defended that Killian sat on the box without letting them out. Quincy went on to say while she opened the box out of curiosity Killian wanted to stop the shipment, though he was unaware of its contents and wondered if he might have a new lead. RX replied he hadn't thought of that, then pivoted, turned to leave without a moment to spare and took Book Master along to meet Killian.

After RX left, Tabernacle stumbled his way into the library, having spent a while looking for his pants and announced that he had been through several rooms that seemed to be made of nothing but his pants, with even the hallways between the rooms were pants, spooking Quincy, who had just settled in an armchair with her journal open about to write. Tabernacle admitted that he was afraid once they left the mansion the pants Ob had magicked for him were going to disappear and when Quincy noted he seemed fine to not wear pants earlier Tabernacle replied that he thought he would be able to find them and now all he could find was pants. Tabernacle then asked how Quincy was and Quincy stated she was worse now and told Tabernacle she wished for no more talk of pants and Tabernacle responded that as soon as they leave the mansion it might be a conversation they wished they had had. He changed topic to suggest to gathering everyone to talk about the heist and Quincy requested they give RX about 20 minutes for something. Quincy pointed out a folklore book she had read before that he could read while they wait and Tabernacle instead tried to lean over and read Quincy's journal but was sternly told off as she snapped the journal closed.

Down the hall a little ways, RX arrived to the prayer room as he grilled Book Master about his possible ability to juggle before knocking loudly on the prayer room door. Killian opened the door and Rx happily greeted Bluteber before Killian and asked if he had met Book Master. Killian replied that all the servants seemed the same, but RX stated they all had distinct personalities and if they took the time they could know them as individuals and added his belief that Book Master could juggle. Killian throws threw the *Shadow Twins* at Book Master and found they went right through the incorporeal sand genasi before returning to his hands moments later. Killian and Book Master shrugged before Killian asked what brought RX there.

RX explained he had a conversation with Quincy who pointed out Killian might know more about him than he thought when he was activated. Killian stated that he had never been a technology person and RX countered that he has been one his whole life before asking about Killian trying to stop his shipment, which might have been himself. Killian asked if RX remembered that one of the casualties of the *Kra'Kash* fires was a Merchant King named Quolong and explained that he was trying to intercept a package that was meant for him. RX lamented the loss of information in the form of another dead person, but Killian reminded him that Quolong was replaced by someone named Vaultanis, who was still alive, and maybe they could speak with him when they eventually returned to *Kra'Kash* citing that we wished to share a bed with Samara again. RX asked why someone would want to share a bed with another person and Killian explained they were married and liked being within proximity to one another. RX said that it sounded like a waste of time and Killian retorted that one day RX might be able to experience the feeling of love.

Back in the library, Quincy threatened Tabernacle off from reading their journal while Tabernacle insisted he could see through objects and could read the journal regardless. Bolton appeared at the doorway, asked if they wanted to get a room and Quincy noted it would make it easier to hide a murder. Bolton said that wouldn't really work there and noted dinner was ready. Quincy asked if the servants would be there and when Bolton replied they didn't have to be Quincy requested them to not be before they head off to the kitchens together. Bolton then retrieved Killian and RX, reliving Killian from RX's questions before the trio find Alaerith.

Meanwhile Alaerith, after his talk with Ob, put the map in his bag, as well as the hairbrush, scrap of red dress and the necklace back in his pocket and started to put the dagger away but paused and stared at it more. After recalling his friend's words that the dagger was something to hold on to and not just put away. Alaerith stood, and put the dagger into the waistline of his pants. Likewise reflecting on the dagger Alaerith pulled out the ring Quincy had given him from Kaziyea and recalled how he was told it was rude not to accept a gift even if you didn't think he should have them. He eventually slipped the ring over his right index finger, watched as the ever shifting black sand forms perfectly to his right pointer finger, even around the webbing between them. Over time, Alaerith began to feel the soles of his feet grow warmer and pulled off his sandals to check with nothing different, but noticed as he walked over the fine layer of soft sand that covered the floor of Ob's *Magnificent Mansion*, that he left no footprints behind. Alaerith wrapped himself with his cloak to cover the ring and his friend's dagger a little before being called to the kitchen with the others.

As they went they saw Yashani in the kitchen with a spread of extravagant food laid out and as they looked everyone, with the exception of Alaerith, recognized the treats she had made Seren in the *Church of Demigods* in *Quarry Hold*. Quincy rushed to the treats with purpose, but stopped to politely ask if she may have one and Yashani replied she didn't make them to go to waste. Killian requested one of them to feed it to Bluteber and after getting permission proceeded to do so. The rest of the party started to make plates for themselves and begins to eat while Killian climbed onto Bluteber's back to eat his meal. Bolton came in then and offered them a book for their request on details of *Cessunaler*. Tabernacle grabbed it first, but thought better of it as he could barely read and let RX takes it from him to read out loud.

The book detailed how *Cessunaler* was the home of a gold mining operation run by Baron Lord Elzagerick Vintorvas, that it had a population of 1655, with 1100 of them being slave laborers and that it was governed by the Puhan Trading Company and defended them the city, alongside a private mercenary company, employed by Elzagerick, known as the Cold Iron that had about 110 mercenaries on hand in the city. It also revealed that most of the gold in Palamoa was found in *Cessunaler* so the PTC had little care for how the city ran and just cared that it did. It also added that everything in the city was run and operated by the PTC except for an inn and tavern called *The Golden Chains,* run by a dwarf named Boris F. Kiligoran who paid the heaviest taxes to remain there but stayed as the people of the city, the mercenaries and employees loved him and the inn. The book also mentioned that the slaves were kept in the *Old District* in run down and degraded boarding houses, the *Military Ward* was where members of PTC along with security guards and Cold Iron stayed, *Dawnwater* held small castle-like structures for high ranking members of the PTC and overlooking the city was *Castle Vintorvas* where the baron stayed.

Tabernacles asked if anyone had ideas of how they might get in and Yashani noted that quietly might be their best option. Killian called for 'Velix' and after he appeared in the doorway asked if he knew a way into the castle. Ob replied there was one way in and one way out being the front gate. When some of party showed frustration to his answer Ob explained that the Baron was a paranoid man and hired the 110 mercenaries of Cold Iron for security. Killian asked, based on their encounter with Bolton and Silence, how they would fare against Cold Iron and Ob replied even if they worked as a team they would be outnumbered and overwhelmed, adding that Captain Rusk might send them for a loop, not to mention the 350 guards employed by the Puhan Trading Company. Tabernacle suggests they weren't getting in as themselves before wondering how often laborers are let into castle and Ob replied they may be let in but weren't often come back out. Quincy asked if there was a lot of trade done in the city and Ob said there was a fair amount. Quincy then wondered if business men were seen coming and going and which Ob said there had been a few, noting that the Baron had guests who stayed within Dawn Water. Quincy noted that laborers weren't a good way to go citing her prior experience and suggested they pose as a business venture. RX asked what they would be selling and Tabernacle answered it would be RX, citing that he was the most valuable thing they had.

Yashani pointed out that the last time they used one of their own as bait it did not turn out so well and Killian agreed pointing out he died. Quincy reiterated the plan wouldn't be just bait, but a bait and switch and Killian added that if they posed as a business then at least there could be people at RX's side. Tabernacle added he had learned a bit more of his magical capabilities, pressed his hands to RX's chest causing a a flickering of ghostly light as Tabernacle's crew flickered into view behind him, then flickered in and out of existence before appearing behind RX and disappeared once more as he cast *Death Ward*. RX clarified that the plan was to sell him, with someone at his side and Tabernacle went slightly more in depth to say one person could pose as the owner of RX, with another acted as their assistant and another person as tasked to watch over RX. Quincy wondered if maybe, like Masq's plan to sneak into the castle in *Quarry Hold*, there were tunnels underneath to sneak through for those not walking in through the gate and Killian reiterated that Vintorvas was paranoid and left no weakness in his defences. Quincy asked if Tabernacle could make people invisible before calculating that if three people went with RX, leaves only once person without an easy way in.

Tabernacle suggested a lookout would be needed, but on reflection found they would only be helpful in assisting the person who was retrieving the glaive and spellbook. Quincy recommended that Tabernacle do that as he was able to phase through tight places which Killian and Tabernacle agreed with. RX asked if they had thought of an exit strategy yet and Killian restated there was one way in so there was one way out only. Yashani voiced that it was odd for a paranoid man to have only one way out of his home and that publicly there maybe only one, but a paranoid person would have contingency plans. Killian suggested if they had a way of getting in and out for reconnaissance before all of them going in he may have an idea, with Quincy having a spark of thought as well. Killian said he could disguise himself with magic as a member of his staff or a soldier, as there were so many of them that a new face would not be remiss and that he could find a way without causing too much of fuss.

Quincy noted that tied into their idea as well and spoke how she knew a man called Galvan Nostru, a good man Quincy knew, whose family ran the vault in the capitol of the Empire and was very influential. Killian recognized Nostru was one of the nine noble families of the Empire and were the most wealthy of them. Killian questioned that focusing but Quincy pushed it aside quickly, suggested if they were to use that name they could get inside the walls without a problem by her posing as a business man while Killian could pose as a personal guard and wander off, while Quincy discussed RX and a potential sale with the Baron, then they could leave, discuss what they found and return later with everyone to do whatever needed to be done. Yashani stated it made her nervous to send only a few in by themselves and when Killian replied that too many people would look suspicious Yashani countered that a stranger wandering the castle was also suspicious. Killian stated that with luck he wouldn't be seen and Tabernacle added if he went with him they could either be invisible or that they didn't even have to go themselves and at that statement a few cockroaches crawled out from Tabernacle's coat, making mostly everyone visibly upset as Killian demanded a warning for such things. Tabernacle also added that he could see through walls and thereby might not be useful in grabbing the items as it would take a lot of energy from him to do so.

Tabernacle then reminded them that they also didn't know where the glaive was and that it wasn't likely to be somewhere easy to access like a tall tower or a guarded basement. Tabernacle suggested they could convince a trade for RX so the Baron might show them his collection. Tabernacle also added that they could talk to the slaves about what kind of safeguards are around the city, particularly anti-magic. Quincy noted they didn't necessarily need to go back for the trade the next day but could instead do reconnaissance in the castle, move around the city a day or two and then go back for the trade. Tabernacle voiced his concerned that the castle might be a void of magic and that any attempt at a disguise would be washed away. Yashani asked RX if the book he read mentioned anything about when the castle was made or by whom and learned that the castle was built roughly 200 years ago by the dwarves that made the *Qho'Sovo Salt Mine* in Puhan, which was then dismissed as *Qho'Sovo* was 150 miles away. Quincy suggested anti-magic could be used as a guess and check and Tabernacle agreed that if any of his cockroaches were dispelled as they went through they would know.

Tabernacle noted they had a decent plan, though it hinged on how well their reconnaissance went. Killian said that if no one had any objections that he would like to go and rest and Ob reminded that if they thought of a room it would appear. Tabernacle asked if the "think and it will be" worked with the servants and when Ob told him yes Tabernacle imagined a red head genasi woman who then appeared before Tabernacle and followed behind him as he left the kitchen.

Quincy left and pictured her room on the ship and opened a door to reveal a room similar though everything is made of sandstone. As Quincy went she felt a presence behind her and turned quickly to find Alaerith hovering who was likewise spooked. She asked if she could help him with something, and after checking no one else was around, Alaerith shyly approached her, poked his right hand from his cloak and showed Kaz's ring on his finger. Quincy perked up and asked if he knew what it does and Alaerith leant in to whisper it to her. When he moved back Quincy apologized for questioning him so harshly earlier, but Alaerith replied it was ok and apologized for the loss of her friends and that he appreciated how hard it was for her to tell and didn't wish to diminish it. Quincy said it what friends are for, but followed up by admitting she wasn't sure herself as she had not had very many friends. Alaerith chuckled a bit and admitted he had forgotten what that feeling was like himself before they each said good night. Quincy turned into her room and began to draft a new pistol.

Back in the kitchen, RX asked Yashani how to act as property and Yashani replied he would have to have less thoughts. This seemed to make RX upset and Yashani clarified that while he may still *have* thoughts, he could not speak them. RX still found this sad but understood. Tabernacle noted outloud that he was having a hard time trying to stop thinking about the red head genasi and Ob, from a different room, said something Tabernacle couldn't make out before the genasi disappeared. In his room, Killian cast *Sending* to contact Ilvwinter

*"We should have a drink sometime to talk about Avranti".*

And recieved Ilvwinter's response moments later,

*"Some time...later."*

Quincy who had begun drafting her new pistol in her room paused and attempted to summon a sand genasi woman, who appeared and looked almost eerily similar to Kaz. Quincy introduced themself and quickly realized the sand genasi couldn't introduce herself before they asked if the woman might be able to help them with something. The woman agreed and Quincy said they needed to practice and returned to their drafting to distract themself while they spoke,

*"I'm sorry I left again. I spent all that time in Kra'Kash warning you that I would leave and it could be any day and that it would be without warning. I thought I was sparing your feelings. I was too stupid to realize I was also sparring myself and look where that's got us. I know you must be terribly angry at me, doing this again. I hope some day I can come back and not leave again."*

Quincy asked the servant if that sounded alright and the woman nodded, her face showing sympathy. Quincy thanked the woman and offered that she could leave if she wanted, but the servant shook her head, so instead Quincy offered her a seat and they sat together in silence for some time.

The next morning, the party gathered in the kitchen the next morning and found Ob and Bolton were finishing the preparation of their food. Ob asked if they knew what they planned to do as everyone grabbed a plate and Quincy replied they had a semblance of a plan. Tabernacle tried to joke they didn't have a "stubborn tortle" to mess it up this time but everyone agreed it was too soon for such things. Tabernacle continued to say he didn't think they had much else to do in the mention which Ob was glad to see and noted they should hurry eating as the magic of the mansion was fading soon. Quincy asked if Tabernacle's pants would also disappear along with the mansion and Ob assures them that the pants given to Tabernacle would remain with him when he left. While everyone else eats, RX wandered off to find Book Master and and gave him a hug goodbye, being careful not to hug *through* his incorporeal form.

Alaerith asked Ob a few questions as they eat, first what name Ob preferred to be called out of Ob or Velix and Ob replied people would call him what they knew him as and he did not have a preference. Alaerith then asked, when Ob changed the marks of the party in the mansion, if Seren's changed as well within the Feywild. Ob reminded that he was not really in the mansion and could deal with Seren when he sees him in the Feywild. Tabernacle then jumped in with a question, knowing the mercenaries strength but wondered how "Mr. Blunderbuss" would fair in a fight. After clarifying "Mr. Blunderbuss" was Tabernacles's attempt at saying *Ventorvas,* Ob said he didn't have that information. He added that he knew the man's history, how his family came to be owners of the gold mining operation and how they made their connections with the PTC but not much on his personal life other than the fact that he was married. Ob noted that the baroness was less than likeable amongst the people but only a fraction better than her husband.

Upon Yashani's request, they stopped the talk of murder over breakfast and Ob and Bolton agreed. Tabernacle said that with everything done that only left the two of them to return to the Feywild before they headed off. Quincy asked if that meant Bolton needed to leave as well and Ob agreed adding that Bolton had a responsibility as well, but was quickly cut of by a punch from Bolton. When Quincy questioned the mild mutiny Bolton said it was better left to another time and agreed that he was leaving to the Feywild as well. Tabernacle asked if the group would need to hold on to the glaive and spellbook for sometime or if they would pick it up and Bolton explained once they had the items the group could contact them via the charms and either he or Ob will come to get them. Bolton reiterated that time was strange in the Feywild, noting it had been a day there but only 12 minutes for Ob. Alaerith asked how they were to identify the items and Ob described the spellbook as a thick, purple leather bound book with the symbol of Rhizadeal on the cover, while the glaive they would simply know when they saw it as it had a particular presence about it that they would feel before they saw it.

At this point, Yashani shoved herself back from the table as she was done with her food and said they might as well leave while the food was hot in their stomachs still and Killian agreed. Quincy confessed that they found the mansion was very strange as much as they appreciate its comforts and Ob agreed that if you didn't understand it, it could be freaky. Ob hurried them out the front door as he said the magic was fading, and once they stepped out into the blustery cold watched as the front door disappeared and Ob bent over to pick up the components he used. Tabernacle marvelled as his pants appeared out of nowhere into the snow and had Hobble retrieve them. Quincy pulled Bolton aside from the group and said that if they were to go back "there", they needed to know if Nana was alright. Bolton replied that Nana was alright, but was no longer there as she had moved just under a year ago to live in the capitol with Alishera, a name Quincy seems to recognize. Quincy noted that they had been sending things back and maybe one would be misplaced, but that it was good to know. Bolton apologized that it was all he knew, but Quincy admitted it was more than she had.

Back with the group, Ob rewrapped his face in his silk bandages, pointed the party in the direction of *Cessunaler* which they were 10 miles south from and asked if there was anything else they needed. Several party members thank him and Quincy asked him to send their love to Seren. Alaerith approached Ob close enough for no one else to hear and confirmed his statement "that a lot of belief made a strong thing, but a strong belief from few could also". When Ob agreed Alaerith asked which was stronger, the happy thoughts of 10,000 or the hatred of a 1000. Ob explained that you could only gauge it by how strong the emotion was, whether the happiness was sub-par or if the hatred was true. With that, Alaerith stepped back, as Ob said his goodbye and released his *Simulacrum* that melted into a pile of lifeless clay. Bolton reached into his pack, pulled out a tuning fork and a spell scroll, and tapped the fork causing it to ring out and create a portal that opened wide like a doorway, revealing a beautiful springtime full of flowers and a bright white and blue sun that crested over the horizon in the distance. Bolton wished them well before stepping through as the portal closed behind him.

Quincy complained how Bolton had magic *and* guns as RX admitted he thought Bolton would melt into a pile of bullets. Tabernacle asked if he could ride on Bluteber as Killian climbed onto the boar, but Killian simple said "no" with a smile and spurred Bluteber on in the direction Ob pointed while the others followed behind.

### **Break!**

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### **Part Two**

The party travelled roughly 10 miles north as we returned, trudging through the snow as it continued to fall, bitterly cold and many of them thankful for the new coats they bought in *Krapjess* though it felt as though it does nothing in the -40 degree weather. As the group continues on Alaerith cast *Prestidigitation* on his cloak to warm himself more, while Quincy noticed as the gaps between the trees became wider on the western side and started to spot small plumes of smoke in the distance while hearing small sounds of metal clinking. Quincy wandered a little ways away from the group, while staying in sight, to investigate and found a large opening cut into the ground, 100s of yards across and ribboned with veins of gold. She also saw within the chasm over a 1000 people, mining at the veins and though a good distance away and the people were small in the distance, knew from her own experience in a similar camp that they were chained as they worked. Quincy returned to the group quietly with out pointing it out.

As they continued, the trees along their path begin to thin and they started to see plumes of smoke and heat rising in the distance from chimneys as the town of *Cessunaler* came into view. Quincy stopped them there and suggested if they were to pull this off that they should be playing the game from the start, though she didn't know what they could change right now. Tabernacle suggested they getting a cart would be useful. Yashani noted that Bluteber might be unusual for the city and Killian added he could leave him at the city edge to avoid him being seen, but Tabernacle argued that Bluteber was exotic and would be to their advantage. Quincy noted that he could be attached to the cart if they wanted as an unusual beast of burden. Killian pointed out that if he was to be disguised by magical means that it would only lasts an hour so he would need to wait until they were ready to start something. Tabernacle suggested they put away anything identifying and split up to enter town separately. Killian put his halberd into the *Bag of Holding* RX carried, but no one else had anything they needed to part with.

RX asked if he should be "inactive" now but Tabernacle noted he needed to be able to demonstrate his strengths and that his intelligence was one of them. Quincy said that showing RX was fully sentient would be a bad idea and Alaerith pointed out that with *Ob's Charm* they could direct him on how to answer things if needed. Quincy suggested that herself, Killian and RX could enter the town together while the rest entered separately and explained to RX that it might be best to act like one of the basic constructs he read in his history books. Quincy admitted that won't be very fun and RX agreed with her, but Tabernacle started to pick up snow in his nearly entirely frostbitten hands and asked in the meantime if RX could juggle snowballs as it might not be bad to put on a bit of a show. RX noted that he suspected Book Master could juggle but that he was never programmed as such and Tabernacle suggested he could use his mind to do so which RX admitted was a good idea. RX then activated *Telekinetic Movement* to simulate juggling with his hands by controlling the movement of the snowballs with his mind.

Quincy asked Yashani, as their voice of reason, for help and Yashani pointed out if they were going to be seen all together at some point anyway then there was little reason to enter separately. Yashani added that they already looked like unusual travelling companions, that they were vaguely suspicious and that she also had no way of disguising herself and was as she came. Tabernacle suggested that was all the more reason to be separated, noting that Killian and Quincy looked very similar in aesthetic, their clothes and tight pants so they would be okay to walk in together, with maybe Tabernacle behind them and invisible, while it might be better for the other two to appear separate on the record. RX pointed out there was the option of someone who would be "watching" RX and though Yashani assumed this would be Killian or Quincy, was good to do that though she did not want Alaerith to be alone. Quincy noted it was not unusual for a merchant to travel in a caravan, especially with such precious cargo, and wondered if they were overcomplicating things. Killian suggested for a moment that it might be best to tie RX up or put him in a crate like they had found him in but was shot down as it would appear more impressive for RX to be walking alongside them as a somewhat autonomous being. Yashani suggested whatever their plan was they should hurry as she was getting cold and as noted Tabernacle was actually freezing to death as he never got a proper winter coat in *Krapjess*.

As the party made their way in groups or separately as they entered *Cessunaler* they passed the meeting of the *Old District* and the *Military Ward.* They saw the *Old District* to their left which smelled like an accumulation of mold, blood and sweat, with buildings built from wood far past the beginning stages of mold and stone so weathered that it seemed to be a miracle the homes still stood and buildings thin, tall and nearly identical if not for the unique skew of them made to fit as many people in a compact space as possible. On the other side they saw the *Military Ward*, just across the major street the party walked, more put together and embellished, clearly better maintained and cleaner than the *Old District*. As they continued they saw *Castle Vintorvas* in the distance as it loomed over the city, as it's spires and ramparts acted like the blunted teeth of a monster ready to consume the town below. They eventually came across a brightly colored three story building, with rich black iron enclosing terraces and a black metal sign hung up with chains of gold, announcing *The Golden Chains*.

Within they saw the inn and tavern were of rich maple wood floors, with darkened warmth from cushions and drapery in deep maroon colors, and for the hour of the morning saw it was not very busy minus an older, bald, dwarf in late 60s with a bit of grey in his hair, his beard portioned into two long stalks, wearing dark slacks and a buttoned up, perfectly white apron behind the bartop polishing glasses. The dwarf soon welcomed them in and introduced himself as Boris. Quincy approached the dwarf, with Killian and RX sitting close behind, and requested two rooms. Boris asked if they wished to pay by the night or in advance and Quincy decides by the night. Killian asked Quincy over *Ob's Charm* if with her contacts they would need to set up a meeting with Vintorvas or simply walk in. Quincy gestured that they heard, paid Boris for the rooms and asked how they might get a word with the Baron. Boris replied that he wasn't known to let people in uninvited so they would need to gain interest somewhere but Quincy insisted he would want to invite them when he knew what they brought. Boris said if it was something of interest there would be plenty of ears to overhear it. Quincy wondered if there was a way to expedite the process and Boris recommended talking to someone with *Cold Iron*, noting it would be quicker but added they were not the kindest people. Quincy said she was not worried with pleasantries and thanked him for the information and Boris replied it was important to his business. Quincy noted she had a few more associated behind her also needing rooms but that she would let them handle it, then left the bar with Killian and RX to her rented rooms while messaging the others over *Ob's Charm* to meet her there soon.

Tabernacle just followed behind Quincy and the others, continuing on when he was not stopped by Boris. Yashani stepped up, having been posted besides RX as a guard of sorts, without her mask on or anything to identify her as such, and paid for a room as well before going up. Alaerith, still below, asked over *Ob's Charm* how much a room was and noted that the cost was something was unable to pay for himself. Tabernacle noted a room could be for free if he planned to sleep outside like he was to do a stake out, but Yashani said they would have to scrape him off the roof because it was so cold. Alaerith eventually followed the others up the stairs with Boris letting him go without a fuss. As they came inside the large 20 x 20 feet room, decorated in the same dark woods and rich maroons as the tavern below with plush beds and a small terrace balcony attached, they gathered together in where Quincy apologized for the room situation saying they panicked a bit.

Tabernacle said considering he didn't plan to go into the castle with them, he could stake out the outside of the castle and send in his cockroaches, then summoned a few of them causing many of the party to reel back and as Killian once again demanded a warning Tabernacle insisted he had never given a warning before and had no intention to start. Quincy moved the conversation forward, suggesting she could send someone out as a liason, which Killian volunteered to do, while she and RX remained at the inn for the most part. Quincy also suggested getting Tabernacle a coat, while he in turn suggested Quincy and Killian getting something fancier to wear. When Quincy asked if he didn't think she looked well enough he said she looked fine, but that he didn't think Killian suited women's pants. As Killian insisted he could dress himself the group decided he should go to the *Cold Iron* to get word out, as their headquarters was marked on the map Ob gave them. Killian said he would leave Bluteber as an alarm system in case something went wrong, as the boar could slam himself against the side of the building to make a ruckus.

Quincy requested he should refer to them as Alwynn Edwards in this case, as they did not wish to use their real name, while Tabernacle volunteered to be outside and cast *Flock of Familiars* causing several cockroaches to appear within Killian's clothes him that scurried and hid themselves away on his person. As he walked away, Killian cast *Disguise Self* to take the form of a human guard, and made his way passed all the buildings that seemed to blend together before he found a large square building that he knew as the *Cold Iron* headquarters, with a large man who guarded the front wearing black plate armor and a large iron band around his neck. Killian approached the guard who immediately moved his lance to attention and to block Killian's path from stepping inside.

Killian introduced himself in a friendly manner as Jacob Cross, head of security for Alwynn Edwards and wished to do business with the Baron. The guard said to talk to him, Killian would first need to talk to Rusk. When asked how to do so, the guard instructed him to wait as he headed inside the building and left Killian outside. A few minutes later, the guard returned with an elven man, with golden brown hair that was curled and a little matted at the ends from lack of care, and dressed very fine with form fitted black metal plate and black cloth, likewise with a band of iron around his neck and dark green eyes. Killian, reminded of Esmeria due to his clothes, activated *Divine Sense* but found nothing out of the ordinary. The man stared intensely at Killian with before confirming that he wished to get word to the baron. Killian reiterated that he was with Alwynn Edwards, that they brought a "first generation construct from straight from Vayilcor" and that he had heard of the Baron's collection and thought it would be the sort of rare item he would be interested in. Rusk seemed impressed, noted that he didn't think the Baron had anything from *Vayilcor* and that he would let the Baron know. Rusk then asked if they were staying at the *Golden Chains* and Killian said as much while Tabernacle messaged over *Ob's Charm* to press about the collection. Killian asked what Vintorvas had in this collection and Rusk explained the collection contained historical artificatts with pieces from the Skorian Empire, Puhan and even some things from Gilesha. Killian asked if a trade would be a possibility and Rusk admitted he wasn't sure, as he had never heard of the Baron making a trade before.

Rusk re-stated that he would get word to the Baron and if he was interested then someone would come to the *Golden Chains* to fetch them. Killian asked how long that might be, but Rusk, brusquely said if the Baron wasn't interested, no one would come. Killian took this in stride and said he would be waiting on the first floor for anyone who came by. As Killian shook hands with Rusk, he felt a surge of power, noting there was more to this man than met the eye, while at the same time Tabernacle commanded one of his cockroaches to drop from his pant leg and remained in the room. Killian reintroduced himself to the two and the guard introduced himself as Grecken and the elf as Rusk Carguille. As Rusk made his way inside Killian asked the guard about the band of iron around their necks and the guard explained it was to identify them as a part of the *Cold Iron* but was also useful in preventing decapitation. With that Killian left, with Tabernacle in tow and as they walked, Tabernacle looked through the cockroach's senses and had it make it inside for maybe a minute before it popped out of existence, leaving Tabernacle to believe it had been dispelled through some sort of magical means as they returned to the *Golden Chains*.

Back in Quincy's room, Killian and Tabernacle rehashed everything they learned along with Killian's persona as Jacob Cross her head of security. Quincy suggested they might be able to get to the collection if she expressed an interest in the pieces from *Gilesha* as she is a genasi. Killian explained that would be sending someone to find them but didn't know when and heads down in the bar with his disguise still up. Upstairs, Tabernacle suggested they do some reconnaissance of the building itself, since they knew less of how Puhan operates and it wasn't clear his magic cockroaches weren't going to work. Killian suggested that he could make someone invisible if they wished to join *Tabernacle* in getting close. Yashani asked if he thought they would even be able to get close to the castle and Quincy pointed out that learning how close they could get without interference could be a part of the reconnaissance. Tabernacle suggested he looked enough like a peasant as is and that someone could Yashani could tote him around as a sick grandfather looking for medicine. Quincy suggested it be prefaced as Yashani's *adoptive* grandfather, but Tabernacle noted as a half-orc one of her parents were "normal" he would simple be Yashani's "normal" half and immediately tried to apologize realizing his words. Yashani merely reminded him she would smear him across a wall and then scrape him off of it before telling him she would be treating him as the most incompetent of fools as he has certainly earned it. Yashani clarified the plan was no longer to be invisible, but to guide her "dementia idled" grandfather to the castle in search of medicine to see at what point they get aggressively turned away.

As Tabernacle and Yashani left, Rusk started to enter the tavern just after an hour. Killian quickly dipped away to cast *Disguise Self* again before greeting Rusk, who said the baron had interest and Killian went to grab Quincy/"Alwynn". At first Quincy prepares RX to be less of himself before remembering the plan was for she and Killian to go in first and return with RX later, so RX stayed behind with Alaerith, who was content to cast *Prestidigitation* on his cloak to warm up his uncovered feet from the cold. Killian reminded them that Bluteber would warn them if anything went wrong while they were in the castle before Killian and Quincy headed downstairs to meet with Rusk, who greeted them and led them.

Rusk led the two to the *Castle Vintorvas* that loomed over the distance*,* not far from the *Golden Chains*, down the main street. Yashani and Tabernacle likewise made it within 30 - 40 feet of the castle, to put on whatever performance they had planned for, and waited around the high solid iron walls. They spotted two *Cold Iron* guards that stood at the gate, wearing the familiar band of iron around their necks, who noticed the two of them made no move to engage. Tabernacle asked over *Ob's Charm* what their goal was but Yashani replied that this was his idea. Tabernacle suggested getting close to the gate, make a ruckus to possibly see what was beyond the gate and get a chance to send his familiars inside to do more scouting. Yashani suggested he send them from here, and as Tabernacle noted that a distraction would make it easier the two saw Rusk with Killian and Quincy, and Yashani stated a distraction had arrived.

Rusk greeted the guards that came to attention as he approached and announced guests for the Baron. The guard on the right turns to a crank on the wall and began to rotate it causing the gate to slowly clank open. As the sound echoed, Tabernacle coughed from his place 40 feet away and cast *Flock of Familiars* causing three black birds to appear on the rooftop above him, and as if startled by the sound of the gate slamming closed behind the trio, had them dart into the air and swooped over the iron wall to the interior courtyard of the castle. Tabernacle watched Killian and Quincy as they were led through the courtyard and into the castle beyond his bird's sight.

Killian and Quincy were greeted by the dark interior of the castle, made with polished black marble, with blood red carpets, the walls lined with statues, art and exotic plants and measured out between large pillars on display. Rusk led them passed several halls that branched off down the main walkway to a set of double doors to a large 50 foot round room, with the same black marble material and a large central fireplace that burned upward into a vent overhead. Seated in a large ebony wood armchair, with the blood red cushioning to match the carpets was an elven man, looking to be in his mid to late 30s, with long, well maintained silver-white hair, slight portly figure in a dark suit of finest black silk studded with golden buttons and cufflinks, chains and rings and his face of an apex predator, with haunting eyes that seemed to bore into the person he looked at, revealing a man controlled only by his own pure greed.

Elzagerick Vintorvas greeted Quincy pleasantly and Quincy returned the greeting in kind as the Baron invited her to sit.

1. ↑ *Ring of the Sand Runner*
2. ↑ Referring to when the party saw him cast *Gaseous Form*.
3. ↑ At this point in the VOD, the metal work sign of the ABSQ logo that Kyle from Tasty Doom Podcast made fell off Darrin's wall! It seems to be alright though and just needs better hooks