Reaching for the Depths

Threads of Discord – Episode 9

The party, having taken a well-deserved rest, was eager to explore deeper into the labyrinth beneath the city. In the midst of this anticipation, Vye revealed a newfound ability, summoning forth a massive, purple grizzly bear named Nightshade through an enigmatic summoning circle. This powerful ally bolstered their confidence and readiness for whatever challenges lay ahead.

Before pressing on, the group decided to investigate the bodies of the goblins they had defeated earlier. Among the remnants of the unfortunate creatures, they discovered an eclectic assortment of items, including fragments of a map, a substantial sum of 400 coins, a pair of peculiar spectacles known as inspectacles, and a trap-disarming kit. In the spirit of camaraderie, the spoils were equitably divided among the party members, each acquiring their share of the newfound wealth.

The group’s journey had been punctuated by Elise’s communion with the shadows, a connection that continued to intrigue and guide her. In a pivotal moment, she perceived that deep within the labyrinth, an ominous, shadowy entity was relentlessly tracking down the enigmatic symbols she had witnessed during her previous visions. This entity seemed intent on devouring these symbols, an unsettling revelation that set the party on edge.

Seeking guidance from Celestia, the goddess with whom she had formed a divine connection, Elise found herself unexpectedly requesting assistance that strayed far beyond her accustomed domains. This unorthodox request left her temporarily bereft of Celestia’s divine favor, a situation that introduced a new layer of uncertainty into their already perilous expedition.

As the party deliberated on their next course of action, the brash and fearless Priscilla decided to take charge, boldly venturing into the tunnels that the retreating goblins had abandoned. This impulsive move would set the tone for their upcoming encounters.

Their path eventually led them to a chamber housing three precarious rope bridges, suspended precariously over a treacherous crevasse. Although a soft, alluring glow on the opposite side tempted them, the party wisely refrained from rushing forward. Their meticulous scrutiny revealed that the bridges concealed a cunning trap designed to ensnare and dispatch even the most formidable of creatures. Recognizing the imminent danger, the group collectively opted for a tactical withdrawal.

Upon their return to the initial antechamber, the party deliberated on the path they should pursue next, grappling with whether to venture eastward or westward. An impromptu coin flip, orchestrated by Phoenix, would determine their direction, and the outcome led them down the eastern passage.

Their journey led them through a narrow tunnel, too constricting for comfort. Sensing potential danger, the group chose to send Twitch, the agile halfling rogue, ahead to scout. Twitch ventured forth and reported back, revealing a tunnel that led to a large, tranquil pool, its still surface reflecting the surrounding stonework. The tunnel continued beyond the pool, disappearing into the unknown.

With Twitch leading the way, the party proceeded cautiously, passing through the narrow tunnel at the risk of injuring themselves. Unexpectedly, Vye’s passage dislodged a rock, causing a partial cave-in. Astonishingly, this turn of events miraculously expanded the narrow passage into a more comfortable thoroughfare.

Their progress led them to the large pool, where they discovered an intriguing inscription etched onto the side, which read, “Make a wish.” Pondering the significance of this message, they couldn’t resist taking a seat beside the enigmatic pool. However, their momentary respite was abruptly shattered as the room trembled violently, hurling Elise, Priscilla, and Xamson into the water, while Cassius was unceremoniously knocked to the ground.

In the midst of chaos and confusion, a powerful force seized Elise, dragging her into the murky depths of the pool. Phoenix reacted instinctively, leaping into the water to save her, while Xamson, from the pool’s edge, attempted to assist using his magical mirror. Above the surface, Priscilla and Cassius faced a dire threat as dark, serpentine tentacles surged forth, thrashing violently in search of more victims.

In the water, Elise struggled for precious breath, while Phoenix valiantly tried to bite through one of the inky tentacles, only to find himself ensnared. On solid ground, Priscilla and Cassius rallied against the tentacles, forcing the unseen entity to retreat into the depths, taking Phoenix and Xamson with it.

Priscilla, undeterred by the risks, dove into the water to rescue their imperiled comrades, while Cassius anxiously watched from the shore, knowing his cumbersome plate armor would make diving impractical. Vye, standing ready, felt a wave of frustration as most of their spells proved ineffective against a submerged adversary. Powerless to intervene directly, they waited in anticipation.

In the depths of the watery struggle, Priscilla, Phoenix, and Xamson fought to break free from the relentless grasp of the tentacles, gasping for air in desperate survival. Faced with the threat of drowning, Xamson had the foresight to employ his magic mirror, attempting to create a portal to release the water pressure. Although this approach proved ineffective, Xamson ingeniously manipulated the mirror to create a small aperture, allowing him to breathe and communicate with his companions on the other side.

The tentacles continued to thrash about in search of prey, but Priscilla’s determination and the combined efforts of the group eventually led to their rescue. Phoenix, Xamson, and Priscilla broke free and resurfaced, much to the relief of their comrades standing by. The monstrous threat had been temporarily repelled.

In the aftermath of the harrowing encounter, the party regrouped to assess their situation. Violet, utilizing their new inspectacles, detected no active magical spells in the pool area, but rather an ambient magical presence. They concluded that Twitch had continued further into the labyrinth without them. After much discussion, they made a pivotal decision to retreat to the surface to resupply and heal, despite the unknown dangers awaiting Twitch.

Upon attempting to ascend the stairs they had originally descended, they encountered an unexpected obstacle; the way was blocked, seemingly sealed off. Left with no other choice, they retraced their steps to the antechamber, where a hidden door offered them an alternative path.

This passage led them into the charred remnants of a basement, revealing a startling connection to Graydar Amberheart, a prominent figure in the city’s history. Recognizing this as a significant revelation, the party delved deeper into their understanding of the mysterious links between the Amberheart family, the underground labyrinth, and the unfolding conspiracy. Their search uncovered more questions than answers, particularly regarding Seraphina Amberheart, the Mayor, and their connections to Thalia of Evermoore.

As night descended upon the city, the party began to piece together the intricate threads of the conspiracy, determined to unravel its secrets and face the challenges lurking in the depths below.