While rummaging through the house, Silver unearthed a handheld lamp featuring a mechanical canary display. He was quite taken with the object, gnawing on it until River intervened and returned it to the trash.
River Departs on Urgent Business
River informed the group that transportation to Cander Hill was essential. She stepped away for a private phone call, which Silver overheard; she expressed frustration that a contact had failed to honor their agreement.
River Faces the Mantee Horde
While traveling, River found her path obstructed by Mantees. She managed to force her way through the gathering, knocking several aside before successfully reaching the main road and continuing her journey away from danger.
Securing a Stolen Camaro
Seeking a vehicle, Eden and Silver located a white Camaro on private property. Silver successfully bypassed the ignition, and the pair returned to the house, though police were soon seen heading toward that area.
Navigating Toward Cander Hill
The group finally departed for Cander Hill with Eden behind the wheel and Silver providing directions via a physical map. Their route was uncertain, but the stolen Camaro carried them steadily toward their destination.
The Roadside Pursuit Begins
Mantees blocked their path, forcing Eden to maneuver around them. She struck one with a burst of energy, but the creatures merged into a terrifying, reanimated mass of vines and twigs that began pursuing them.
At Sparrow’s Kitchen, the party reviewed their findings on Project Flowerbed. Akiva explained that the Hat Man oversees the fate of Apex’s test subjects, then suggested that the Valrondian territory holds the answers they seek.
Tomasi Rhaug Joins the Party
Tomasi Rhaug, a snow-leopard tabaxi scout, introduced himself to the group. He quickly integrated into the team, offering his skills as a scout and marksman while keeping a close eye on his new companions.
Tavern Departure and Curfew
As the group finalized their plans, the Hands of Balaam arrived for a hunt. The tavern guards urged everyone to head home immediately to avoid the dangers of the night.
Monstrosities Roam the Rooftops
While Mercy led the group home, Tomasi scouted from above. He witnessed an alarming number of zombified creatures in the streets, held at bay only by the constant threat of arrows.
A Chaotic Night at Home
The group settled in for the night, with Mercy tending to an intoxicated Eden. The evening was a blur of magical mishaps and recovery, though the atmosphere remained tense.
The Dead Weasel Warning
Tomasi discovered a mysterious box left outside containing a dead weasel and a note. The group identified this as a warning from the powerful Valrondian noble family connected to Candor Hill.
River Advocates for Reconnaissance
River arrived the next morning with a matching package. She successfully redirected the party from a reckless confrontation, pushing them to conduct thorough reconnaissance of Candor Hill instead.
