Episode 9
Out of the Woods
After encountering a criminal on the road, the adventurers reach Oaktown, gather new intel, and confront monstrous predators.
Recap
While escorting Garrett and Butter to Oaktown along the Imperial Road, the party was ambushed by a skilled thief who attempted to steal the wagon filled with jewelry. During the commotion, the imprisoned orc they had with them tried to wrangle free from his restraints, which was enough for Anton to consider his life forfeit.
As the other heroes were forced to thwart off the real danger, the thief named Jorfyr was suddenly taken over by another sentience within his mind, speaking to Raz'sik in the Pangenan tongue as "The Voice of the Ruby Dragon," demanding that he find a magic orb within an abandoned tower in town and give it to a man in a yellow cloak. As soon as the mind puppetry ceased, the thief had no memory or knowledge of the incursion.
Eventually able to subdue and capture the half-elf rogue, the group continued their journey into town. Garrett led them to the Kirann Estate, the home of the town-master and the barracks of the local guard. With a threat of blackmail, Garrett paid the adventurers less than promised and entered the protected estate.
Angry at the betrayal, the party then turned the captured Jorfyr over to the guard, and they headed to the Drunken Deer Tavern for food and refreshment with their new heavy coin purses. Inside they found the yellow-cloaked Pangenan Raz'sik was told to encounter, and after confirming through telepathy, Raz encouraged the group to help him find the orb. The tower, known as the Laughing Spire, was once the home of a wizard long ago, according to a woodcutter at the bar.
As Raz'sik and Anton became inebriated on Honeyhorn Mead, the party decided to rest up for the evening and explore the town the following day. As they moved to exit, however, a voice screamed for help. A villager claimed his wagon of goods had been attacked by beasts. The heroes hopped at the opportunity and left the tavern.
Just outside were a pair of ferocious owlbears looking for a meal, who instantly attacked the drunken adventurers. The group fought off the monsters, eventually able to slay them before becoming a nighttime snack. With a deep breath of relief, they headed toward the Twin Crows Inn.