Season 4, EP 1: The Festival

The group made their trek back to Runeshire, but their triumphant return was met not with celebration, but with a palpable pervasive gloom. The city of Runeshire was gripped by fear, fully aware that the Blood Moon was nigh. Morale was critically low, with soldiers and civilians alike consumed by panic. There was much to be done to prepare for the inevitable battle, yet a collective paralysis seemed to hold the city in its grip.

Councilor Sir Desmond Brimm stepped forward with a daring recommendation.

"The city needs a major celebration. Something grand enough to pierce the gloom, to remind the soldiers and the people precisely what, and who, they were fighting for."

The party eagerly embraced this mission, recognizing the critical importance of spiritual fortitude in the face of impending doom. For the remaining days before the Blood Moon's full rise, the adventurers worked tirelessly alongside the city's leadership, meticulously preparing for a massive, kingdom-wide feast and festival.

Meanwhile, Crystal, still haunted by the persistent, intrusive flashes of Jackie’s memories, sought relief from her unwelcome curse. She visited Dawnbringer Orin, to inquire about magic that could lift the spectral burden.

After a thorough inspection, Orin confirmed that Crystal’s curse ran far too deep for a simple exorcism. He strongly recommended that she seek out Lady Tasva Goldenfall, a priest of Pelor and a renowned, highly practiced exorcist who resided in Kaldenhal. It was clear Crystal would need a true professional to be freed from Jackie’s grasp.

Finally, the day of the grand festival arrived. The city, though still under the shadow of the looming Blood Moon, transformed into a vibrant tableau of defiant joy.

Wine and ale flowed freely, contests like axe-throwing and archery saw enthusiastic participation.

Music filled the air, culminating in a lively battle of the bands. Thane became the manager of one such band with a motley crew that included: Fredrick, Cain, Siren, Grok, Brandy, and Olar.

There was a pie-baking contest that brought out the competitive spirit of the culinary-minded.

Even Urbosa returned with her retinue, putting on a spectacular show that captivated the crowds. The event was a resounding success, a raucous celebration that infused everyone with high spirits.

Though successful, the night ended with a bittersweet blend of fervent hope and profound fear, all mixed into one potent emotion.

Tomorrow, in just one day, the Blood Moon would rise.