Episode 2, Part Two: Howls of Barsano Woodlan

By Mercy Eva Parson

## Chapter One:

The morning sun cast long shadows as the Golden Thorn Team gathered in their headquarters on Tober 14th. Veloris, Theo, Crux, and Zier convened, their expressions determined despite Karen Aylwood's absence. The case at hand, "Howls of Barsano Woodlan," loomed before them like a puzzle waiting to be unraveled.

The team gathered around a large table, the surface strewn with a myriad of files, photographs, and newspaper clippings. Each document told a chilling tale of eerie howls echoing through Barsano Woodlan, an ancient forest that had long been a source of mystery on the outskirts of the city. Residents spoke of unsettling encounters, claiming to have glimpsed shadowy figures among the dense foliage, their forms flickering like phantoms in the moonlit night.

Veloris, the team leader, surveyed the gathered information, his eyes scanning witness statements, maps, and historical records. The sense of foreboding settled over the room like a heavy mist, and a hushed silence descended as the team absorbed the gravity of the situation.

"The reports are consistent," Crux, the Investigator, spoke first. "Residents are genuinely frightened. Something is happening in Barsano Woodlan, and we need to find out what."

Zier, the Monster Slayer, picked up a file containing witness sketches. "These figures they claim to see... they aren't just ordinary shadows. There's a malevolent presence in that forest."

Theo, the Cursed Field Agent, his mysterious aura adding an air of mystique, leaned over a map. "The wood is ancient, and so are its secrets. I can sense a curse, ancient and potent, woven into the very fabric of Barsano Woodlan."

Veloris, his expression resolute, addressed the team, "Karen's abilities could have shed more light on this, but we press on. We need to understand the history of this forest, its folklore, and any supernatural events tied to it. Crux, dig deeper into the witness statements. Zier, examine the forest's history of creatures and anomalies. Theo, focus on the curse. We'll reconvene and pool our findings. Barsano Woodlan holds secrets, and it's time to unveil them."

As the team delved into the investigation, the shadows of Barsano Woodlan seemed to stretch beyond the photographs and documents, whispering tales of mysteries waiting to be uncovered. The journey into the heart of the ancient forest had just begun.

Crux, with his sharp investigative instincts, zeroed in on the report concerning the Woodlands of Barsano - Lumber Mill. His keen eyes scanned the details of the werewolf attack, and he meticulously reviewed the witness accounts, looking for patterns and clues that might unveil the nature of the supernatural threat.

Theo, on the other hand, delved into the report on The Timberland Terror. His cursed senses tingled as he absorbed the accounts of shadowy figures and bloodcurdling howls haunting the Timberland outskirts. His unique perspective, attuned to the arcane, allowed him to discern nuances that others might overlook.

As Crux flipped through the pages, he discovered witness sketches depicting the werewolf and the chaotic scene at the lumber mill. He noted the similarities in the descriptions, the accounts of a large wolf-like creature with unnatural strength and agility. There was an eerie consistency in the witness statements, suggesting a well-coordinated and menacing force.

Theo, engrossed in the Timberland Terror report, uncovered tales of shadowy figures lurking between the trees, causing panic and fear among those who ventured into the area. His cursed intuition resonated with the witness accounts, sensing a malevolent force that went beyond ordinary comprehension. He took note of the descriptions of dread and the feeling of being watched, trying to discern the connection between these eerie occurrences.

Veloris, observing the focused dedication of his team members, addressed them, "Crux, find any common threads in the witness statements. We need to understand the behavior and patterns of these supernatural entities. Theo, delve into the folklore and occult history related to the Timberland. See if there are any ancient curses or rituals tied to the reported disturbances."

As Crux and Theo continued their respective analyses, the headquarters hummed with a quiet intensity. The mysteries surrounding Barsano Woodlan seemed to weave a complex tapestry, and each report was a crucial thread that could lead the Golden Thorn Team closer to unraveling the enigma that gripped the city.

## Chapter Two:

The decision made, the Golden Thorn Team set out for the city Morgue, intent on gathering insights from Rufus Bardwell, the experienced Mortician. The short journey led them through the bustling streets of New Garland, but as they approached the solemn building that housed the Morgue, a certain gravity settled over them. The Morgue was a place of somber reflection and a repository of the city's untold stories.

Upon entering, the team found Rufus Bardwell, an older, plump man with a weathered face, diligently at work. His steady hands handled various tools and instruments with practiced ease as he attended to his duties. Upon noticing the team's arrival, he looked up, his eyes expressing a mix of curiosity and acknowledgment.

Veloris, taking the lead, approached Rufus, "Mr. Bardwell, we're from the Golden Thorn Team. We're investigating some unusual occurrences in Barsano Woodlan. We were hoping you could provide us with some insights into the recent incidents involving werewolf attacks and other supernatural disturbances."

Rufus, wiping his hands on a cloth, gave a nod of understanding. "Ah, the Golden Thorn Team. I've heard of your exploits. Supernatural disturbances, you say? Well, I've seen my fair share of peculiar cases over the years. What specific information are you looking for?"

Crux stepped forward, "We're particularly interested in the recent werewolf attack in the Woodlands of Barsano. We're hoping you could share any details about the victims and the injuries sustained."

Rufus gestured for the team to follow him to a small office adjacent to the morgue. As they gathered around, he began recounting the grim details, "The werewolf attack was a gruesome sight. Four individuals lost their lives that night. Samuel Hargrave, Eliza Turner, Thomas Osgood, and poor Amelia Frost. Each had their own story, tragically cut short."

Crux, attentive to the information, asked, "Can you tell us about the nature of the injuries? Anything unusual that might stand out?"

Rufus sighed, "The injuries were severe, consistent with a werewolf attack as the witnesses described. Deep lacerations, bites, and in poor Amelia's case, disembowelment. It was as if a wild beast had torn through them."

Theo, with his natural curiosity and a touch of the supernatural about him, couldn't help but inquire further into Rufus Bardwell's experiences. As the team prepared to leave the morgue, Theo turned back to the Mortician.

"Mr. Bardwell," Theo began, "I'm intrigued by your work. How long have you been a Mortician?"

Rufus, setting aside his tools, wiped his hands once again, "Been at it for around 30 years now. Seen a lot in my time."

Theo nodded, sensing there was more to uncover. "And how long have you been dealing with, well, the high crimes and more unusual cases?"

Rufus chuckled, "Ah, that's a more recent venture, about a decade or so. The city's seen its fair share of peculiar incidents, especially since the War started."

Theo's interest piqued, "The War? Has it changed things around here?"

Rufus leaned back, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "Indeed, young man. The supernatural, it's been picking up around here, especially in the last five years. Cases that defy explanation have become more frequent."

Theo, his connection to the mystical world resonating with the notion, continued, "Have you personally encountered anything... supernatural?"

Rufus sighed, "A few times. Strange occurrences, unexplained phenomena. But these last few years, it's like the city's caught in the crossfire between worlds. Makes my job a bit more interesting, I suppose."

Theo, intrigued, couldn't help but ask one final question, "Regarding the recent Lumber Mill Killings, are you confident that it was the work of werewolves?"

Rufus, his demeanor growing serious, nodded, "Absolutely. The injuries, the ferocity of the attack – classic signs of a werewolf. Seen it before, but it's never any less unsettling."

Theo thanked Rufus for his insights, and as the team left the morgue, a lingering sense of the supernatural's growing influence in the city resonated with them. The journey into Barsano Woodlan took on new dimensions, with the realization that the veil between the mundane and the mystical was growing thinner, and the Golden Thorn Team stood at the forefront of unraveling the enigma that gripped New Garland.

In the dimly lit confines of the morgue, Theo continued to question Rufus Bardwell about the gruesome deaths of Samuel Hargrave, Eliza Turner, Thomas Osgood, and Amelia Frost. Rufus, his weathered face reflecting the gravity of his profession, handed over the Mortician's Report, detailing the injuries sustained by each victim.

### Victims of the Woodlands of Barsano - Lumber Mill Werewolf Attack

> **Date:** AV 22, 1945
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> The following is a mortician's report detailing the conditions of the individuals affected by the werewolf attack at the Woodlands of Barsano - Lumber Mill:
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> * **Samuel Hargrave (Decapitated):**
> 	+ **Cause of Death:** Severe decapitation inflicted during the werewolf attack.
> 	+ **Injuries:** Deep lacerations, extensive trauma to the neck, and complete severance of the cervical spine.
> 	+ **Additional Notes:** The nature of the attack indicates a swift and ferocious assault, resulting in immediate fatality.
> * **Eliza Turner:**
> 	+ **Cause of Death:** Fatal injuries sustained during the werewolf attack.
> 	+ **Injuries:** Multiple deep lacerations across the torso and limbs, resulting in massive blood loss.
> 	+ **Additional Notes:** Eliza Turner likely succumbed to her injuries shortly after the attack. The severity of the wounds suggests a prolonged struggle.
> * **Thomas Osgood:**
> 	+ **Cause of Death:** Fatal injuries inflicted during the werewolf attack.
> 	+ **Injuries:** Deep bites on the neck and head, leading to severe trauma and extensive blood loss.
> 	+ **Additional Notes:** Thomas Osgood's injuries indicate a direct and aggressive confrontation with the werewolf, resulting in rapid incapacitation.
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> **Amelia Frost (Disemboweled):**
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> * **Status:** Deceased due to severe disembowelment.
> * **Injuries:** Deep and extensive wounds to the abdominal region, leading to disembowelment and fatal blood loss.
> * **Additional Notes:** Unfortunately, Amelia Frost did not survive the vicious attack. The injuries sustained were beyond the possibility of medical intervention.
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> **Overall Observations:**
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> The werewolf attack at the Woodlands of Barsano - Lumber Mill resulted in the tragic loss of three lives and significant injuries to Amelia Frost. The severity and nature of the injuries are consistent with an encounter with a large and powerful predator, highlighting the dangers posed by supernatural creatures in the region.
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> **Recommendations:**
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> * Increased Vigilance: Residents and workers in the Woodlands of Barsano are advised to exercise increased vigilance and take precautionary measures, especially during nighttime hours.
> * Enhanced Security Measures: Constabulary patrols in the area should be intensified, with a focus on protecting workers and preventing further supernatural incidents.
> * Medical Attention for Survivors: Amelia Frost requires immediate medical attention and rehabilitation to address her disabling injuries.
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> This report serves as a documentation of the tragic events and aims to guide future actions to ensure the safety of the community.
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Theo meticulously went through the report, absorbing the macabre details of the werewolf attack at the Woodlands of Barsano. The brutal nature of the deaths weighed heavily on the room, the air thick with a sense of foreboding.

As the exchange continued, Rufus, with a grave expression, reached for a small bag. Inside, carefully preserved, was a sample of bluish-gray fur. "We found this on one of the bodies," Rufus explained, his voice low and steady. "It didn't match the hair color of any of the victims. Seemed out of place."

Theo accepted the bag, examining the fur with a mix of curiosity and concern. The bluish-gray hue hinted at something otherworldly, a detail that didn't align with the typical characteristics of a natural predator. The team now held a tangible clue, a piece of evidence that could potentially lead them to the identity of the werewolf responsible for the vicious attack.

Veloris nodded, "Thank you, Mr. Bardwell. We appreciate your assistance. If you come across any other unusual cases or information, please don't hesitate to let us know."

As the team left the morgue, they carried with them the weight of the grim details, knowing that understanding the victims and the nature of the attacks was crucial to uncovering the mysteries hidden within Barsano Woodlan. The journey into the unknown continued, each piece of information leading them one step closer to the heart of the supernatural enigma.

## Chapter Three:

Exiting the morgue, the Golden Thorn Team gathered together to decide their next move. Veloris, Crux, Theo, and Zier considered their options, each member bringing their unique perspectives to the table.

Veloris, the team leader, spoke first, "We need more information about these incidents. Heading to the Constabulary seems like the logical next step. Cassandra Blackwood may have additional insights into the werewolf attack and other disturbances."

Crux, always eager to uncover hidden truths, agreed, "Agreed. The Constabulary's investigations might have details we missed, and Constable Blackwood could shed light on any leads or connections between the cases."

Theo, his cursed intuition alert, added, "If there's a pattern to these supernatural occurrences, Cassandra Blackwood might have identified it. Let's see if her perspective aligns with what we've gathered so far."

Zier, ever watchful for potential threats, nodded, "We need to understand the scope of the supernatural activity. If it's escalating, we need to be prepared for what lies ahead."

With a unanimous decision, the team set their course for the New Garland Constabulary. The city streets buzzed with activity as they navigated towards the central hub of law enforcement. Upon arrival, they were greeted by the imposing structure of the Constabulary building.

Inside, a young lady behind the front desk acknowledged their presence and, recognizing the Golden Thorn Team, directed them straight to Constable Cassandra Blackwood's office. The team followed the directions and found themselves standing outside Blackwood's door.

Upon entering, they encountered Constable Cassandra Blackwood, a thirty-year-old human with a determined demeanor. Not necessarily pretty, but possessing a strength that spoke of years of facing the challenges of her role.

"I've heard of the Golden Thorn Team. What brings you to the Constabulary?" Cassandra inquired as the team settled in.

Veloris explained, "We're looking into the werewolf attack at the Lumber Mill and other supernatural disturbances in the city. We were hoping you could share any information or leads you've uncovered during your investigations."

Cassandra, recognizing the collaborative potential, began to share her findings. The exchange of information between the Golden Thorn Team and Constable Cassandra Blackwood commenced, creating a synergy that aimed to shed light on the mysteries shrouding Barsano Woodlan.

As Crux and Zier meticulously went through the files provided by Constable Cassandra Blackwood, a somber discovery emerged. The names of the hikers attacked and killed during the Moonlit Massacre were revealed: brothers Cotton and Edward Whickham and their companion, Allie Banks.

### New Garland Constabulary Report

> **Date:** AV 21, 1945
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> **Time:** Early Morning
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> **Location:** Barsano Woodlan
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> **Incident:** The Moonlit Massacre
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> **Details:**
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> On the night of AV 21, 1945, a group of hikers—Cotton Whickham, Edward Whickham, and Allie Banks—fell victim to a ferocious and coordinated attack in Barsano Woodlan, leading to a tragic incident now referred to as the Moonlit Massacre.
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> **Discovery of Bodies:**
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> Constables received distress calls from surviving hikers who stumbled upon the gruesome scene early the following morning. The bodies of Cotton Whickham, Edward Whickham, and Allie Banks were discovered in the heart of Barsano Woodlan, near the remains of a campsite.
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> **Conditions of Bodies:**
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> 1. **Cotton Whickham:** Found with severe lacerations and bite marks across the torso and limbs. The cause of death was determined to be extensive blood loss and traumatic injuries. The ferocity of the attack suggested a large, powerful assailant.
> 2. **Edward Whickham:** Similar injuries to his brother, with deep lacerations and bite marks concentrated on the upper body. The cause of death mirrored that of Cotton Whickham, indicating a swift and lethal assault.
> 3. **Allie Banks:** Discovered with injuries consistent with a struggle. Severe bite marks were present on the neck and arms. The cause of death was determined to be a combination of fatal injuries and strangulation. Signs of defensive wounds suggested a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful attempt to fend off the attacker.
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> **Supernatural Indicators:**
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> The nature of the injuries and the coordinated nature of the attack hinted at supernatural involvement. Witnesses reported howls, snarls, and the presence of shadowy figures during the assault. Constables collected a sample of bluish-gray fur found at the scene, possibly belonging to the unknown assailant.
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> **Conclusion:**
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> The Moonlit Massacre represents a disturbing and unprecedented incident in Barsano Woodlan. The New Garland Constabulary has initiated an intensive investigation to identify and apprehend the supernatural entity responsible for the deaths of Cotton Whickham, Edward Whickham, and Allie Banks. The evidence collected, including the mysterious fur, will be crucial in piecing together the events leading to this tragic and horrifying event. Citizens are advised to exercise caution in woodland areas until the perpetrator is brought to justice. The investigation is ongoing, with updates to be provided as new information emerges.
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Crux, with his sharp investigative skills, cross-referenced the information with other reports in the Constabulary files. "These names don't seem to be connected to any other incidents. It appears they were simply unfortunate victims in this supernatural event."

Zier, the vigilant monster slayer, nodded in agreement. "No prior involvement in supernatural occurrences. They were just in the wrong place at the wrong time."

As the team continued their analysis, it became evident that Cotton and Edward Whickham, along with their companion Allie Banks, were tragically caught in the crossfire of the Moonlit Massacre, innocent victims of a malevolent force that lurked within Barsano Woodlan.

Zier meticulously examined the sketch laid out on the table—a symbol of both dread and mystique. The intricate lines formed a sigil that had been witnessed by one of the survivors during the harrowing attack. It portrayed a wolf's head intricately wrapped in a twisting vine of thorns.

The room hushed as the significance of the symbol became apparent. Veloris, Theo, Crux, and Zier exchanged glances, each recognizing the gravity of what lay before them. This was no ordinary mark; it was a key to unraveling the mysterious assailants' motives and, potentially, their origins.

Veloris, the seasoned leader, broke the silence. "This sigil... it's not just a random marking. It's a symbol with a purpose, a meaning deeply rooted in the supernatural."

Theo, ever attuned to the mysteries of the occult, nodded. "Indeed. This resembles the emblem of the Woodland Warden—a powerful spirit that guards Barsano Woodlan. It's a guardian with a fierce protectiveness over the ancient forest, known for its vengeful disposition against those who threaten its sanctity."

Crux, the astute investigator, leaned in for a closer look. "If this is the mark of the Woodland Warden, we're not dealing with ordinary attackers. We're in the midst of a supernatural conflict, one that intertwines with the ancient forces of Barsano Woodlan."

Zier, who had uncovered the sketch, couldn't shake the feeling that they were stepping into uncharted territory. "So, we're facing a spirit that commands the very essence of the forest. This changes everything."

Theo's voice, tinged with a mix of caution and certainty, resonated in the room. "This symbol, this sigil we've found—it's a mark of the Woodland Warden's cult. They're notorious for their acts of terrorism, a radical faction dedicated to protecting Barsano Woodlan at any cost."

As he spoke, Theo gestured toward the sketch of the sigil, his fingers tracing the lines as if decoding a cryptic message. "The Echo Terrorists are known for manipulating supernatural forces for their own agenda. They believe they're safeguarding the ancient forest from perceived threats, even if it means resorting to extreme measures."

The weight of Theo's revelation settled on the team like the heavy branches of Barsano Woodlan itself. The attacks, once shrouded in mystery, now bore the fingerprints of a fanatical cult with a connection to a vengeful spirit. The very essence of Barsano Woodlan seemed to pulse in the room, as if reacting to the revelation.

Crux, the investigator, leaned forward, absorbing the information. "So, we're not dealing with mere supernatural occurrences. We're dealing with a deliberate and coordinated campaign driven by a cult that believes they're executing the will of the Woodland Warden."

Veloris, the team leader, looked at each member, his expression firm. "Our mission just became even more critical. We're not just investigating. We're standing against a force that believes it has the right to unleash chaos in the name of protecting the forest."

Zier, who had uncovered the sigil, felt a chill run down his spine. "It's not just about solving a case anymore. We're confronting a cult that has harnessed the power of a vengeful spirit, and they won't stop until they achieve their goals."

The room, charged with newfound understanding, echoed with the weight of responsibility. The Golden Thorn Team, armed with the knowledge of the cult's involvement, prepared to navigate the treacherous terrain ahead, where the supernatural and the fanaticism of the Woodland Warden's followers intertwined in a dangerous dance.

## Chapter Four:

The Golden Thorn Team exited the imposing stone structure of the Constabulary, their collective purpose evident in the determined set of their expressions. As they stepped out onto the bustling streets of New Garland, the city's vibrant energy surrounded them. Carriages rolled by, shops bustled with activity, and the echoes of urban life filled the air.

Their destination lay beyond the city's boundaries, in the embrace of nature. A waiting carriage, adorned with intricate golden thorn motifs, awaited them. The driver, a sturdy figure with weathered features, tipped his hat in acknowledgment as the team approached. The carriage itself, an elegant yet practical vehicle, bore the scars of numerous journeys into the wild.

The team boarded, settling into the plush interior. The scent of polished leather mingled with the faint perfume of forest greenery. The carriage set into motion, navigating the labyrinthine streets of New Garland before veering northward.

As they ventured outside the city limits, the landscape transformed. The rhythmic clatter of hooves on cobblestone gave way to the softer rustling of leaves overhead. Tall buildings were replaced by the towering sentinels of Barsano Woodlan, their ancient branches creating a verdant canopy that shielded the forest floor below.

The carriage, now enveloped in the soothing embrace of nature, traveled along a winding path, the air growing crisper with each passing mile. Shafts of sunlight filtered through the dense foliage, dappling the interior of the carriage with patterns of light and shadow.

A sense of anticipation settled among the team members, their eyes glancing beyond the carriage windows at the vast expanse of the woodlan. The journey toward the site of the harrowing attack unfolded like the turning pages of an ancient tome, each moment drawing them closer to the heart of the mystery that awaited in the depths of Barsano Woodlan.

The carriage rumbled to a stop at the edge of Barsano Woodlan, where the city's influence began to wane, giving way to the ancient expanse of the forest. The team disembarked, their boots crunching on the fallen leaves that carpeted the forest floor. The air, heavy with the scent of pine and damp earth, carried an eerie undercurrent.

Veloris surveyed the surroundings, his gaze moving from the dense foliage to the distant cliffside. "This is where the hikers were attacked two months ago. Keep your senses sharp. We might find something the constables missed."

The team fanned out, each member assuming a role in the impromptu investigation. Theo, with his keen perception, scanned the tree line for any signs of disturbance. Zier, the monster slayer, gripped the hilt of his Tricky Pick, ready for any sudden threat. Crux, the investigator, followed the trail of leaves and twigs, hoping to uncover a clue overlooked by others.

It was Crux who discovered the first lead—a series of claw marks etched into the cliffside. He crouched down, running his fingers over the grooves left by a creature's claws. "These marks are fresh. Whatever attacked the hikers might still be around."

Theo approached, his eyes narrowing as he examined the claw marks. "Werewolf?" he speculated.

Crux nodded. "Possibly. We'll need to follow this trail carefully. It might lead us to the lair or nesting grounds."

Veloris, ever the strategist, considered their options. "Let's follow the trail, but be cautious. If there's a werewolf in these woods, it won't take kindly to intruders."

Crux's sharp eyes traced the line of broken branches, leading him toward the eastern edge of the attack site. He knelt down, examining the fractured limbs that spoke of a struggle between the unknown assailant and the surrounding foliage. Among the broken branches, he discovered a tuft of brown fur, subtly hidden among the debris. Carefully, he collected a sample, securing it for further analysis.

Meanwhile, a short distance away, Theo followed a different trail of destruction. The claw marks were deeper, the broken limbs more pronounced. As he ventured northward, a revelation struck him like a lightning bolt – the creature responsible for this chaos was larger than anticipated. Seven feet tall, a formidable and imposing figure.

Theo crouched down, inspecting the area meticulously. Among the wreckage of branches, he discovered a contrasting tuft of black fur. The size and color hinted at a creature of great strength and perhaps, a higher rank among its kind.

Crux and Theo exchanged glances, each realizing the significance of their findings. The forest held secrets, and the evidence they uncovered painted a vivid picture of a powerful and enigmatic adversary lurking in Barsano Woodlan. The Golden Thorn Team, undeterred by the growing sense of danger, pressed on, determined to unveil the mysteries concealed within the ancient groves.

Zier approached the site of the brutal attack, the air heavy with the weight of the past. The atmosphere in Barsano Woodlan seemed to shift, carrying echoes of the harrowing events that unfolded on that fateful day. The dense foliage cast dappled shadows over the ground, creating an eerie dance of light and darkness.

As Zier surveyed the area, it became apparent that the three hikers had been caught off guard, ambushed by an unseen force. The natural serenity of the woodlan stood in stark contrast to the violence that had erupted in its midst. Broken twigs and disturbed leaves hinted at a struggle, a chaotic dance between the victims and their assailants.

The remnants of a shattered backpack lay strewn across the forest floor, a silent testament to the suddenness of the attack. Zier examined the surroundings, his keen eyes picking up on subtle details that told a story of fear and desperation. The tranquil beauty of Barsano Woodlan had been shattered by the tragedy that unfolded here.

Zier, with a sense of grim determination, continued to investigate the ambush site. Every clue, every nuance of the environment, contributed to the unfolding narrative of the horrors that befell the unsuspecting hikers. The team, standing in the heart of the woodlan, grappled with the realization that they were treading on ground stained by both natural beauty and supernatural dread.

## Chapter Five:

As the carriage rumbled back towards the city, the Golden Thorn Team engaged in a lively discussion about the seemingly interconnected string of attacks that had befallen New Garland. The Hikers, the Lumber Mill, the Timberland Terror, the Harvest Festival incident, the Vircona River Raid, and the Twilight Terrors at Barsano Woodlan — each event bore the mark of something ominous, something beyond the realm of mere coincidence.

Zier, in his role as the team's astute investigator, added another layer to the conversation. While the team delved into the details of each attack, Zier studied the phases of the moons during the incidents, meticulously mapping them out.

* The Timberland Terror and Lumber Mill attacks occurred during the Gibbous Waning (Luminara), Full Moon (Aequilum), and Half Waxing (Ignisolar).
* The Harvest Festival incident took place during the New Moon phase for all three celestial bodies — Luminara, Aequilum, and Ignisolar.
* The Vircona River Raid unfolded during the Gibbous Waning (Luminara), Full Moon (Aequilum), and New Moon (Ignisolar).
* The Blue Orc Complaints coincided with the New Moon (Luminara), Crescent Waning (Aequilum), and Crescent Waxing (Ignisolar).
* The Twilight Terrors occurred during the Full Moon (Luminara), Gibbous Waxing (Aequilum), and New Moon (Ignisolar) on Oathday.

Zier's observations hinted at a possible connection between the lunar phases and the occurrences, a celestial rhythm guiding the sinister events. The team, immersed in their contemplation, felt the weight of an impending revelation, sensing that the answers they sought were intricately tied to the cosmic dance of the three moons over New Garland.

Theo's temples pulsed with a dull ache as the elusive name "Whickham" continued to dance just out of reach in the recesses of his memory. An unrelenting sense of familiarity nagged at him, like a half-remembered dream teasing the edges of consciousness. He furrowed his brow, attempting to grasp the elusive details that lingered just beyond his conscious awareness.

As the carriage drew closer to the city, Theo's gaze swept over the landscape, and his eyes settled on the approaching train station. It was then, amidst the rhythmic clatter of wheels against the tracks and the distant sounds of the bustling city, that the mental fog began to lift. Theo's eyes widened with sudden recognition as the pieces fell into place.

"That's it!" he exclaimed, the revelation breaking through the mental barrier. The name "Whickham" wasn't an arbitrary fragment; it was tied to the ownership of a prominent shipping company associated with the city's train network. A surge of clarity washed over him, and the throbbing in his head was momentarily forgotten, replaced by the excitement of a crucial discovery.

Excitement bubbled in Theo's voice as he turned to his companions, the revelation burning bright in his eyes. "Guys, I remember now. The Whickham name—it's not just a random memory. They own a shipping company linked to the train station!" His words hung in the air, carrying the weight of newfound knowledge.

The team exchanged glances, the pieces of the puzzle aligning in their minds. The connection between the Whickham family, the train station, and the city's transportation network hinted at a deeper layer to the unfolding mystery. Veloris, Crux, Karen, and Zier absorbed the information, each contemplating the significance of this revelation.

Veloris, always the strategic thinker, considered the implications. "If the Whickham family is involved in transportation, it might tie into the recent attacks. The Lumber Mill, the Timberland, the River Raid—they could all be linked through their shipping operations."

Crux, with his sharp investigative instincts, nodded in agreement. "We should dig deeper into the Whickham family's connections and activities. There might be a key piece of information that connects all these incidents."

Zier, the vigilant monster slayer, remained alert. "We need to investigate the Whickham family's involvement and see if there's a supernatural aspect to these incidents. The Woodland Warden's sigil might be a clue."

The carriage rumbled into the city, and the Golden Thorn Team was fueled by a renewed sense of purpose. With the Whickham family's connection unveiled, they set their sights on the train station, ready to delve into the heart of the mystery and confront the shadows that lurked within New Garland.

The team's carriage rolled through the city streets, carrying them toward the fort district, and Zier's suspicion lingered in the air like an unsolved riddle. Veloris, catching the undercurrent of doubt, leaned in to listen as Zier shared his unsettling idea.

"There's something off about Constable Blackwood," Zier stated, his eyes narrowed in suspicion. "I can't shake the feeling that she might be hiding information from us or leading us astray intentionally."

Veloris, ever the decisive leader, considered the gravity of the situation. "We need to get to the bottom of this. If she's obstructing our investigation, it could be a severe threat to the city. We can't afford to be misled."

As the carriage approached the constabulary, Veloris made a swift decision. "We'll investigate her office discreetly. Crux, Zier, be ready to gather information. Karen, keep an eye out for any magical wards or alarms. Theo, provide cover if needed."

The team, unified in purpose, arrived at the constabulary, their plan forming like a shadowy dance beneath the surface of the mundane. The constabulary, a bastion of law and order, would soon become the backdrop for a clandestine exploration into the heart of potential corruption. The Golden Thorn Team, driven by a sense of duty and the pursuit of truth, prepared to navigate the shadows that concealed the secrets of Constable Cassandra Blackwood.

The dimly lit hallways of the constabulary concealed the clandestine operation unfolding within its walls. With the practiced ease of a skilled locksmith, Theo expertly manipulated the tumblers of the lock, allowing a soft click to signal the success of his endeavors.

Veloris, Crux, and Zier stepped into the office, their movements careful and deliberate. The room, adorned with a few framed commendations and dusty law books, bore an air of official authority. Constable Cassandra Blackwood's desk, a sturdy oak structure, dominated the space.

Crux began searching through the files neatly arranged on the desk, his keen investigator's instincts guiding his every move. Zier focused on the shelves, eyeing the various items that adorned them. Veloris, ever vigilant, kept a watchful eye on the surroundings, ensuring the team's covert activities remained undisturbed.

As the minutes passed, the team sifted through the papers, hoping to uncover any hidden motives or discrepancies in Constable Blackwood's dealings. The hushed rustle of paper and the occasional creak of the office door became a symphony of secrecy as the Golden Thorn Team delved into the unknown, their shared objective propelling them forward in their pursuit of the truth.

The room held a mix of tension and relief as the Golden Thorn Team sifted through the documents, unraveling the mysteries of Constable Cassandra Blackwood's office. As the realization dawned that Blackwood's actions were more indicative of incompetence than ill intent, Crux couldn't help but voice a sentiment that resonated with a touch of wisdom, "Never attribute to evil that which is adequately explained by incompetence."

With a newfound clarity, the team focused on the pertinent information. The mention of the Gothmog Tribe, the enigmatic Blue Orcs, added a layer of complexity to the investigation. It hinted at a larger web of intrigue surrounding the incidents in Barsano Woodlan.

The revelation about the Harvest Festival's connection to the worship of Faria'el, the benevolent goddess of nature and growth, provided a glimpse into the spiritual practices intertwined with the events. It became apparent that the threads of the investigation were weaving a tapestry that blended both the supernatural and the divine.

As the team absorbed the details, plans began to form. Their journey into the unknown took unexpected turns, revealing a world where ancient tribes, nature deities, and supernatural entities converged in a delicate dance. The path ahead promised challenges, but armed with newfound knowledge, the Golden Thorn Team was prepared to face the shadows that lurked in Barsano Woodlan.

The night settled over the city, casting its shadows as the members of the Golden Thorn Team dispersed, each finding solace and respite in their own domains.

Crux and Theo made their way through the dimly lit streets, returning to Crux's home. The air carried a certain weight, laden with the mysteries they had uncovered and the challenges that lay ahead. Yet, their steps were determined, fueled by the resolve to delve deeper into the unfolding enigma.

Meanwhile, Veloris and Zier retraced their path to the Golden Thorn Headquarters. The ornate building stood as a bastion against the mysteries that surrounded Barsano Woodlan. As they entered, fatigue etched on their faces, they were met by the sight of Karen. Weariness clung to her, a testament to the battles she faced in the unseen realms during her absence.

In the quiet of the night, the team reunited, each member carrying a piece of the puzzle. The convergence of their distinct abilities and experiences promised a collaboration that would transcend the barriers of the mundane and venture into the extraordinary. With Karen's return, the Golden Thorn Team stood united, ready to face the challenges that awaited them in the days to come.