ATCL11 Thistledown to Oakhurst

The date in Cerwyn calendar is 337 - Brth - Shrivetide - Luminos (337 - 2 - 2 - 8 - 98). Thick clouds sit almost motionless in the sky, with regular downpours. But the temperature is high, making it very humid and uncomfortable.

The morning sun casts a golden hue over the wagon train, illuminating a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation among the travelers. Suilven, ever the charismatic leader, has successfully recruited two new companions to join the crew. The merchants, now bolstered by the added security and diverse talents these individuals bring, brim with optimism about the journey ahead.
The train follows the familiar order once more, with Thornes, Greens, Blackwoods in the lead, followed by Bells, Greys and Rivers in the middle, and the Frosts and Barks bringing up the rear.

Can you detail where the characters are generally on the wagon train? Are they out front, out back, on a wagon or walkingh alongside? Also are they fully kitted out with weapons or just a single weapon, and do they have any crossbows cocked? Also can you list the spells you have prepared if any.

As the wagons roll out the following morning, the two dwarves, Suilven and Ben, continue to strengthen their friendship while leading out from the front. Suzi and Matrox chill out at the back of the caravans while keep an ever watchful eye, and Zalman sits on one of the central wagons, while Asus, with his bow ever ready, strides alongside.
The joyous festivities from the previous day have left everyone in high spirits, providing a much-needed respite from the stresses of the road.
Departing from Thistledown, the route takes a northerly direction, crossing a sparkling river before weaving through serene low valleys and gently rolling hills. For the first league, the path meanders peacefully, but soon it begins to ascend, spiraling up the side of a prominent hill. As the caravan reaches the crest, a breathtaking view unfolds before them—a vast, verdant woodland stretching endlessly to the horizon, promising new adventures and discoveries hidden within its depths. These are the Whispering Woods that were described to you by some of the Thistledown residents you spoke to in the tavern the night before.

If the characters want to know if more detail was given.

The 'downers spoke of the woods, and the mystical aura that it evoked, but none had actually any experience of them. They preferred to stay local to the village.

A few hundred yards from the hill's summit, the road plunges into the dense embrace of the woods. Almost immediately, a palpable tension grips the wagon teams. The once rhythmic clatter of wheels and hooves on the dirt track becomes eerily muffled. The towering canopy overhead forms a natural shield, insulating you from the elements. No raindrops penetrate the leafy barrier, and the wind is reduced to a mere whisper.
A heavy silence blankets the procession. All chatter has ceased, replaced by anxious glances darting through the underbrush. An unspoken sense of foreboding hangs in the air, as if the forest itself is holding its breath, concealing some hidden menace that lies in wait.

Do you want to make any changes to your character assignments within the caravan train, or the approach you take? Be ware that any pre-cautionary action, ie in front investigation will affect the speed of the caravans and potentially reaching your destination in daylight.
Please advise if you wish to make any changes along the way based on the descriptions that are given. Identify the character and the action you wish to take.

The party of adventurers decide to change positions. It is now more important to have tracking presence at the front, so Asus and Suzi take the lead, marching slightly ahead of the caravans. The two Dwarves take up middle positions, while Zalman and Matrox, already good friends from their previous travelling together, protect the rear.
The dirt track winds through an enchanting woodland, framed by twisted, gnarled trees that arch overhead, forming a natural tunnel. The path is narrow, with rich, reddish-brown soil, marked by the occasional tuft of grass growing in the center. The dense canopy of intertwined branches above creates a mesmerizing, almost mystical ambiance, allowing only dappled sunlight to filter through.
On either side of the track, vibrant and exotic flora flourishes. Brightly coloured flowers, with hues of red, orange, and pink, dot the lush green undergrowth, adding bursts of color to the verdant scene. Moss and ferns cover the ground and cling to the tree trunks, creating a sense of timelessness and untouched beauty. The overall atmosphere is one of serene yet eerie tranquility, as if the forest holds ancient secrets waiting to be discovered.

As the wagons roll deeper and deeper into the forest, you start to pick up some of the natural sounds and sights of the forest. Insects and bugs, lying peacefully on or near the road suddenly disturbed from their rest, and jumping, hopping or flying away. Birds awoken from rest, scattering upwards and away with squawks and frantic calling. Occasionally a boar, deer or other forest creature you're not familiar with yet is seen running off in the distance. But there is also a faint whispering that can be heard coming from above.

Asus roll for nature DC10 - success

It almost seems as though the trees are whispering to one another, their rustling leaves passing along the news of your arrival.
A faint memory stirs within you, recalling tales from your studies of ancient realms where such things were possible. Here, the trees stand not as mere sentinels, but as guardians—protectors of a sacred domain. You turn to the others and reassure them, explaining that the very life within this forest welcomes you. There is no sense of foreboding here; instead, the vibrant hues of the leaves and flowers, the lush undergrowth, and the dazzling array of flora speak of a place well-tended and inviting. This is no dark and menacing wilderness; rather, it is a sanctuary, alive with the warmth and vitality of a cherished home.
[failure]It almost seems as though the trees are whispering to one another, their rustling leaves passing along the news of your arrival. But it doesn't feel dark and menacing, but the vibrancy of the flora suggests it is an safe and inviting environment[/failure]
By around midday you are deep inside the forest and maybe only a couple if leagues or even less left to travel. You stop by a stream that the track fords.
You have a feeling that the atmosphere in the woods has changed. The whispering has ceased, and the plants have a less vibrant colour. Despite this, the water is flowing and looks clear and refreshing.

Asus roll for perception DC15 - success
Suzi roll for perception DC15 - failure

You notice a couple of dead fish washed into a stagnant part of the water. Their bodies blackened and with small yellow boils on their underbelly. The changes you feel in the environment make you feel nervous. You immediately warn the others not to drink from the stream.
The changes Suzi feels in the environment makes her feel nervous and she agrees it wise not to drink from the stream.
Everyone remounts and you roll on for another league, ever the more wary.
As you enter a small clearing within the heart of the Whispering Woods, the merchants' caravans creak to a halt. The dense canopy overhead allowing only slivers of sunlight to dapple the forest floor, casting intricate patterns of light and shadow on the moss-covered ground. The air is thick with the scent of wood and earth, and the low murmur of leaves rustling in the breeze creating an eerie but strangely soothing melody.
Without warning, the underbrush ahead begins to tremble.

What action do you take?

Suzi raises a hand to silence the group. Her eyes narrowed as she scans the trees, senses alert to the subtle movement in the shadows.
The horses stamp their hooves nervously, sensing the tension in the air.
From the foliage, many small figures begin to emerge, their forms blending almost seamlessly with the bark and leaves around them. They are no taller than a cat, with skin like ancient green wood and eyes that glow with a faint, otherworldly luminous lime tinge. They move with a cautious grace, their limbs creaking softly like old branches swaying in the wind.

Who and how do you respond?

Suzi steps forward, holding her hands out in a gesture of peace. "We mean no harm, little ones," she says in a low, calm voice. "We are but travellers passing through your woods."
The creatures hesitate, their luminous eyes darting from one person to the next, their wariness palpable. They chitter softly to one another in a language that sounds like the rustling of dry leaves. After a moment, the largest among them, perhaps their leader, takes a step closer to Asus. His gaze is intense, filled with a mix of caution and curiosity.
"We know your kind," the leader replied, its voice high-pitched yet resonant, like the wind whistling through hollow reeds. "But dark things have been stirring in our woods. Shadows that do not belong. We are wary of all who enter now."

Do you want to ask what they are? Do you respond?

The leader explains. "To your kind, I believe we are called Woodsprites. We help look after the woodland flora and fauna, and maintain its balance."
Asus nods, sensing the gravity of the situation. "We've noticed the change in the air. The forest feels... different. Rest assured, we are here only to trade and will do no harm. Perhaps we can help, if there’s something amiss?"

The creatures/woodsprites exchange glances, their movements quick and deliberate. They seem to be weighing up Asus' words, considering the sincerity in his tone. Finally, the leader speaks again, its voice tinged with a hint of weariness. "We will not hinder your passage, but tread lightly. The forest watches, and it remembers. If you are true in your offer, then stay alert. The darkness moves in ways unseen, and even the smallest of lights can make a difference."
With that, the creatures begin to retreat into the underbrush, their forms melding back into the foliage as though they were never there. The clearing grows quiet once more, save for the soft whispering of the trees. Asus exhales, a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding, and signals for the caravan to continue.
As you move forward once more, you and the merchants can't shake the feeling that unseen eyes are still upon them, watching, waiting. The forest, once simply a backdrop to your journey, now feels alive with secrets—both light and dark. And though the encounter was peaceful, there was an unspoken understanding: you are not alone in these woods, and something far more ancient and powerful is stirring.
As the daylight starts to fade once more, you catch a glimpse through the trees of lights shimmering up ahead. On several tree trunks symbols cam be observed. What is immediately odd about the symbols is that they are not carved but appear to be growing out from the trunk almost like a branding, but there is no damage to the tree. The symbols bear a mixture of two moons, animal motifs and a tree that looks like a weeping willow.

Zalman roll for religion DC10 - failure
Suzi roll for religion DC10 - success

You recognise these as the emblems associated with druidic cultures. They symbolise the relationship between earth, nature and the moons. There are obviously strong connections within the Oakhurst community to the druid lifestyle and beliefs, it is even possible to be the dominant culture.

[failure] You don't quite recognise these emblems or their significance, but they obviously are significant to the Oakhurst community [/failure]

You have arrived in Oakhurst
You are greeted by quite a gathering of the locals, they guide the wagons toward the village clearing where here is plenty of space to park the wagons, and tether the animals with access to feed and fresh water. Despite their positivity of your arrival, there seems to be an element of anxious, nervousness about them. They wish to identify the merchant's spokes-person, and once they are guided to Suilven, they usher you toward the communal meeting circle in the centre of the village.

As you approach, you see nine green and brown robed individuals heatedly discussing something, but once they notice you, one of the elder members indicates for the discussion to cease.
The eldest looking member of the group stands facing you and speaks. "Greetings traveller. I am Thornwyn, a member of The Circle of the Oakhurst Verdelune. We are the caretakers of the village and the woodland that surrounds it. My apologies, but I feel your visit here may be in vain, as we have pressing matters which take precendence over market trading. I offer you food and shelter to you all for the evening, but you may wish to take leave in the morning, so that you may waste no more of your time."

How do you respond?

Suilven steps forward. "While your concerns for our matters are fair, we would not be comforatble to leave you in your despair. Within our group we have skills that may be of use to you and your village. Please tell us more, and we can either advise or help as much as you require."
Thornwyn glances around at his companions in the Circle, each one a pillar of wisdom and strength in their own right. The weight of the matter at hand presses heavily on his mind, but he knows it has to be spoken. With a steady breath, he addresses you, the outsiders, his voice tinged with both caution and hope.
“Indeed, this is a concern for our village alone, and we would never wish to burden visitors with our troubles,” he begins, his gaze steady and thoughtful. “But since you have asked, perhaps there is something you can do that we, despite our long years of stewardship, have not yet managed.”
He pauses, allowing the gravity of his words to settle before continuing. “For centuries, we have lived in harmony within these ancient woods, keeping to ourselves and nurturing the balance of life that surrounds us. We have never sought the assistance of the Cerwyn guard, nor have we needed it. The guard, in their ignorance or perhaps their wisdom, avoid the Whispering Woods entirely, believing them to be haunted—a belief rooted in superstition, not truth. Your presence here speaks to the absurdity of such fears.”
Thornwyn’s expression darkens as he speaks of the recent disturbances. “Yet, in these past weeks, the forest itself has whispered of dark and troubling events. While the trees do not speak as we do, we can sense their unease, a deep-rooted disturbance that has left them restless. We have discovered creatures—once vibrant and healthy—lying dead in the streams, their bodies twisted, blackened, and covered in boils. Such signs are not natural, and they fill us with a dread we cannot easily dismiss.”
He hesitates, his voice dropping to a grave tone. “What worries us most is that this blight has begun to spread. Even the plants, those silent sentinels of the forest, are showing signs of sickness. Leaves that should be green are turning black, and the life force of this ancient wood seems to be waning. We are at a loss to explain it, and the darkness grows closer with each passing day.”
Thornwyn’s eyes meet yours, a plea for help unspoken but clear. “Perhaps your fresh perspective can see what we cannot, or your hands can do what ours have failed to achieve. Any aid you can offer would be a blessing to this land we hold dear.”
Suddenly there is shouting coming from a short distance away in the woods which are now quite gloomy and dark, and there is crashing of branches and undergrowth as if someone is being chased. The words are unclear, but someone is trying to raise an alarm and it is obvious they are getting closer.
Thornwyn, quick to react despite his aged years, shouts for everyone to take shelter, and the villagers immediately run for their cottages (or at least the nearest cottages they can reach).

How do the characters react?

While the merchants rush for cover alongside the villagers, the characters immediately prepare arms and get into a defensive position.
A young man, drenched in sweat, with cuts and scratches across his face and limbs, stumbles through the under growth and into clearing in front of Thornwyn. He struggles to get enough air into his lungs with which to speak, and continues to look behind him, and pointing in the direction in which he has come. He appears exhausted, terrified, but does not display any serious wounds.
Thornwyn, tries to calm the man, while watching the woods, encouraging him to draw deep breaths and explain himself. Thornwyn turns to you and explains that this is Seren Ashblade, a young but determined member of the village watch. Seren is fiercely protective of Oakhurst and trains diligently to keep the village safe.

Do any of the player interact?

[record decision]
[/record decision]
Eventually Seren speaks up. He stutters through his explanation. "I was concerned with the darkness and the effect on the village and the woodland, and went to seek guidance from the spirits at the Elderglow. When entering the grove, I was shocked to see that the plants nearby had started to wither and some had been affected by the black blight we have seen in other parts of the woods. This worried me greatly, but before I could investigate further, I glimpsed something in the shadows. I cannot say for certain, but I swear it disappearred into one shadow, only for another to appear elsewhere in the dimness. And then again it vanished, and from behind me then there came a growling. I was frozen in fear, when all of a sudden I was set upon by a malevolant group of Twig Blight.
There must have been 20 or more. They got hold of my clothing and my hair, and started to scratch and rip at my skin. While we would never consider these creatures our friends, they have never been our enemies, and they have never attacked us before. I don't understand, because we have always been fair with them. As I turned to flee, that is when the greatest horror shook me. The Oakhurst Triskelion has gone and the Sylvan Pedestal has been carved into two. We are doomed. We will all wither and die along with the woodland and the ceatures within. We must surely be doomed." And as he falls to the ground, his head in his hands, you hear the young man bursts into tears and let out a fearful wail.
Thornwyn kneels down and firmly graps Seren. "We are not doomed, but we are in peril and it is obvious somethings more malevolent than twig blights are involved. I fear you may have seen a Shadow Wolf or more. A fearful creature banished from these woods many, many years ago. I thought they were just a myth. But where there is a Shadow Wolf, there is likely to be a master. And now I fear that other creatures and spirits may also have been turned. We do not have the skills to overwhelm an opponent like this. We need help!" He turns to Suilven. "Will you help? Can you help?"

Negotiate your terms. The caravan teams are supportive of your offer to help. And they will provide welcome support and safety to the other villagers.

Suilven agrees that the team, with the approval of the merchants who appreciate that a happy and safe village would be better for their trade, that you can help, but he advises, "The light is fading fast. It would not be wise to venture into the woods at this late hour. We will rest tonight, and prepare for an early rise tomorrow as soon as first light cometh."

Parent Plot

337-088 Arncastle to the City League