Season 2, EP 1: The Blood Moon Prophesy
After a few days of travel, Runeshire, with its battlement walls and distinct districts, welcomed them, though not without revealing its own complex web of politics and hidden truths.
Upon their arrival, the party was immediately immersed in the opulent world of the Runeshire Manor, the main castle atop the tallest mountain, and the seat of Crystal’s royal family. The adventurers were taken aback by the sheer wealth and grandeur that surrounded Crystal, a stark contrast to their usual rugged travels. Here, they met the stoic Duke Richard Runeshire and the elegant Duchess Mary Runeshire, Crystal’s parents, who ruled over this powerful House of Gale. They were also introduced to Lord Daren Runeshire, Crystal’s elder brother and the dutiful, if somewhat reluctant, heir to the Dukedom. The Duke’s controversial past was subtly hinted at through the presence of Eric Runeshire, a physically imposing hothead born of Duke Richard’s infidelity with Candice Darby, and Sarah Runeshire, the quirky and independent magic-seeker who had long since left Runeshire to pursue arcane arts, born from the Duke’s affair with Susanna Berube.
Beyond the immediate family, the party encountered the inner workings of the Manor and the city. Perren Fetz, the meticulous main butler, managed a vast retinue of servants, ensuring the seamless operation of the household. Lander Lebeda, a master swordsman and fencer, served as Daren’s personal trainer, reflecting the military prowess of House Runeshire.
As they settled into the city, the adventurers explored Runeshire’s various districts and met influential figures. Most notably the Sleepy Owlbear, the most famous Inn in the central Morning Garden Square, quickly became a favored haunt by Goen, run by the affable Audryn Vinius.
Crystal spent considerable time within the Manor, eager to continue her research into Leyon’s travels. She delved into the manor’s library, seeking knowledge on crafting magical items, and discovered the critical role of Residuum, a very rare ore, in such processes. Her personal quest deepened when Baric Nylef approached the group with a plea: Brianna Windshadow, a knight of Lathander, sent on a mission to transport goods to an outlying inn, had not returned. Baric’s worry was palpable, and Crystal felt compelled to investigate.
Wong quickly forged a bond with Thimin of "The Village Coat," sharing his famous "Bubbly" recipe. More importantly, Wong’s inquiries led him to a fabled pathway high in the Draconian Mountains, not far from Runeshire: the Temple of Lathander. This ancient temple, a site of pilgrimage and a demanding rite of passage for worthy monks, reportedly held one of the elusive ingredients for his perfect brew. The arduous journey alone promised to be a trial of will.
Sam and Thane, ever the scholars in their own right, spent considerable time at Arcanist Javero Carthilion’s school, a part of the Runeshire Manor Library. Javero, a human wizard and the Head Librarian, proved to be an invaluable resource. Thane delved deeper into the lore of the Shadar-Kai, seeking to understand his mysterious powers and their connection to the Raven Queen. Sam, driven by his quest to free his father, meticulously researched the Nine Hells.
"Alright, Javero, my research, combined with what you've found, paints a pretty grim picture," Sam began, leaning forward, a serious expression on his face. "This Blood Moon... it's not just some random celestial event, is it?"
Javero nodded, "Indeed, Sam. My studies align with your findings. Long before the Aarakocra even walked the skies, Tiamat's cult, the Cult of the Dragon, attempted a ritual to permanently stain the moon crimson. Their aim was to imbue all dragons and their followers with immense power. The Aarakocran forces managed to thwart them in a great battle in the eastern Draconian Mountains, preventing the full catastrophe. However, the first phase of that ritual was completed. That's why the moon turns blood red every ten years, accompanied by those unsettling sounds and ill luck."
"And that's where Draco's Heel comes in," Sam continued, connecting the dots. "Your research indicated the Aarakocra, before their mysterious disappearance, created powerful weapons specifically designed to be stronger during the Blood Moon. A whole stockpile, hidden away in that ancient, abandoned barracks."
Javero sighed, a flicker of concern in his eyes. "Precisely. I've pleaded with the Duke for years to send expeditions there. Only one returned alive, shaken and bloodied. He spoke of it being haunted, and of attacks by Dark Dwarves while they tried to figure out how to enter. He managed to sketch some of the etchings on the walls... they're not arcane, Sam. They're Auran, the ancient language of the Aarakocra. Not even my spells can decipher them."
"Well, we just so happen to have someone here who can speak Auran" Sam stated, looking at Goen.
"What're you looking at me for?" replied Goen.
"You speak the ancient tongue of Regalia's ancestors?" Javero interrupted with enthusiastic intrigue and skepticism.
"A little."
Thane stood up, tired of the inaction finally spoke out, "If we're going to stand a chance against whatever's coming with the next Blood Moon, we need those weapons. Draco's Heel has to be our next objective."
Wong chimed in, stroking his chin. "If we're heading that way, the Temple of Lathander isn't far. I could use a detour for my brew."
Crystal Runeshire, however, her brow furrowed with worry, interjected, "Before anything else, we need to check on Brianna. She's been missing since the battle."
Thus, the party embarked on their next series of quests, a challenging gauntlet that would reveal more about the world of Regalia and the escalating threats it faced.