The fight intensifies as Shanks is struck by an unknown sniper’s massive arrow, prompting him to pursue the hidden threat while the others press deeper into the devastated streets in search of Enich. Arguile deciphers Thieves’ Cant that hints at possible clues, but before the party can investigate further, they are confronted by an iron golem, forcing another exhausting battle. Meanwhile, Shanks locates the sniper’s perch, sets an explosive trap, and collapses the structure, only to realize his target survived. The chaos escalates as the team fights wave after wave of enemies, the city ringing with clashing metal, buzzing wings, and thundering hooves, until Shanks’ frantic updates suddenly cut off as he’s struck down in retaliation.

With resources nearly spent and enemies still swarming, the party begins a desperate retreat. Yurik uses Dimension Door to recover Shanks, while Galahad ferries allies through the streets under heavy fire. Zechs, carried by Salix in giant eagle form, creates a massive pit with his Hole Thrower to slow their pursuers and even tosses a summoned baboon from his Bag of Tricks to add to the chaos. Bloodied, exhausted, and barely holding the line, the Collateral crew manages to regroup and flee deeper into Ors Themar, another narrowly survived chapter in their relentless fight through a city under siege.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 29, “Demon's Arithmetic”. How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics 

Check out the show at themedusascascade.co

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The scene opens mid–bar fight as the Slash Brothers swiftly subdue the patrons and question the barkeep about the warforged priest. The interrogation ends abruptly when the barkeep becomes overtaken by a force tied to the King in Yellow and attacks, only to be knocked unconscious. The group presses deeper into the city toward the temple, noting its ominous architecture and the same eerie laughter they heard the night before echoing behind its doors. Thorak bursts them open with Thaumaturgy, revealing a chaotic scene centered on an altar marked with familiar, unsettling symbols.

As they advance, they spot a ranting figure, clearly the priest, and prepare for battle. After a brief verbal exchange, Thorak cuts him down, but the priest only laughs from the floor, promising a “fun” reunion in Blackburn before vanishing entirely. Bob warns that more enemies are coming, prompting the group to search for an exit and anything useful. They barricade one door, open another, and unexpectedly step into a familiar tavern. There, Chan meets the Journeyman for the first time while Thorak quietly gathers barrels for a developing plan. The Journeyman listens to their report and offers a drastic solution: time travel.

The party rests, strategizes, and collects helpful items, including a tuning fork of disruption. Bob tries to hoard nearly everything in the workshop, but is forced to be selective. With the choice between navigating an army’s worth of enemies back to Blackburn or altering the timeline, they split into two specialized teams: one to gather materials and prepare a trap for the priest, and the other to counteract his influence, with Bob disguising himself as a depraved version of the priest. Thus, Operation Boom Stick is born.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood & Booze! 

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We find Galahad at an establishment called The Old Pickaxe, where he meets the owner, Ron, and they bond over Dwarven whisky and rare steak. Galahad is given some behind-the-scenes information about the city and how things truly operate, and is even asked whether he and the party would be up for another job to overthrow a corrupt figurehead, given their resume, but has to mull it over, given their tight schedule at the moment. The party sans the tea crew meets up with Galahad to discuss how things were after he left, explain the peculiar game they played and the smell, and think about whether there is even enough time for a new quest, given their ever-growing to-do list. 

Later on in the week, while the group makes their preparations for Uscana, Zechs goes out to find information about his bow, Jack of All Trades. Zechs meets a man named Hollis Breckthane, the owner of the Hollow String shop, who informs him that his bow is made of a special and extremely rare metal called ghost silver. He had come across it once before at the Silver Static Drift in the Astral Sea, a place where gods go to die, and he acquired it from a dead god's tooth to make arrows that were confiscated. Zechs gets an in-depth lesson on how his bow truly works and is appreciative of the insight, realizing he has a long way to go but a clear path to fully grasping the bow's capabilities. He buys an elven saber for Argo and heads out. At the same time, Galahad picks up his newly reforged sword, Kanna's Blazing Fury, and purchases the thunderstrike mace as he's grown attached to the weapon. He's informed that the rest of the crew's orders will be ready later that week, and thanks him for the time and excellent work, getting to see just how the newly forged blade works and feels. He's impressed and excited to test out this improved beast of a weapon.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage! 

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics 

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The group finishes plans to go to the Ren Faire, recounting the fight and what transpired during some members' visit to the other side. They decide to pick up some supplies, place some orders, and stock up before the next leg of their trip. Eventually, they finally arrive at the Ren Faire, and Arguile gives a lay of the land. Shanks and Zechs make quick work of the archery game, Turk enters an exhibition fight to test his new abilities but gets promptly defeated, and Galahad has... a slightly more unique experience. 

The champion of Bahamut enters the jousting competition, summoning a pegasus as his mount. He loses the first match with the crowd favorite, The Red Knight, but with such a great battle, they go into a rematch right away. We see Galahad the victor, but he brings the Knight near death's door, thankfully bringing him back with Lay on Hands. He hands him some coins as an apology and promptly leaves. In his exit, he unfurls the pegasus wings and hits a few onlookers with them before flying off. The rest of the crew split into groups. Turk and Zechs head to a fortune teller and get some very on-the-nose readings. Arguile and Shanks head to the casino, later meeting up with Zechs and Turk, where some had better luck than others. 

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics 

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the thirteenth episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Frim, and Jaime discuss and come up with the lore surrounding the mountain city of Ghelgo. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the Southern reaches of Iwi.

VO: Frimmer Starstone, Jaime (d20dinner), and Thomas Lapierre III

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We find the party all getting up and gathering their things after their long rest, filling each other in on what they've been seeing or hearing all night. It's decided that they should head to the mines and determine what happened to the people. As they head over towards the mines, Bob decides to take a quick detour on his own to do a little shopping. It takes a second for the group to notice, catch up with him, and decide it wouldn't hurt to stock up on supplies, unaware of any dangers that await them ahead. 

As the party arrives and begins venturing into the mines, the book grows warmer the deeper they go. As they explore more through a maze of stalagmites and rock formations, they come upon a large and disturbing scene. They are reminded of the gruesomeness described on the ship that crashed into port, and this is so much worse. The party steel themselves and decide whether to destroy the effigy or leave it and investigate further.

Bob can translate the book, and Ursus begins to read the book, learning of the many names of The King in Yellow, particularly Hastor. At this point, Bob begins trying to take down the effigy, but isn't making so much as a dent. The group decides to feed the book to the altar and see if it triggers something, as the book has been vibrating more and more throughout their time there. 

Afterwards, when the group felt they had exhausted all the clues and information they'd gathered here, they decided their next course of action was to head to Midmount. As they decide on this, the group realizes they're being watched and finds itself surrounded by the watchers it has been encountering since its arrival, even though it doesn't recall all of them. When Valen uses Mindsplinter to cast Detect Thoughts, he hears many voices saying, "He waits." After a wave of psychic energy emits from around them, Valen and Chan are compelled to begin crying uncontrollably. The rest of the party, unaffected, bring them with them to try to lead them out of the mines. They finally arrive in Midmount shortly afterwards and find out what's been going on in town from the locals, confirming that a warforged priest is very charismatically gathering followers.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood & Booze!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The aftermath of the fight sees Zechs, Turk, and Shanks being brought back up. Turk's magic seems to have left him, as a plume of black smoke leaves him, and Zechs has a white handprint that has appeared on his own hand where Tumra touched him. Turk appears visibly angry with his former patron, and Galahad tries to assess the group. Shanks is brought back from the brink of death, and he awakes, feigning memory loss, to cut the visible tension. Zechs heals Arguile and directs Arguile towards his brother and mother. The family reunites and comforts each other through their grief, then reconvenes with the party before heading back into the city. The party looks over the area to see if there's anything worth grabbing before heading out and finds several things, including armor that they're unsure is cursed, so Turk holds off on putting it on until they can find something better suited for him. 

The party decides to head to their lodgings rather than Dorna's home, at least until they can be sure it's safe for them to return. As they return, per their usual routine, the drinks begin to pour, and some seem a bit more tense after the fight than others. After checking in on one another and trying to plan their next moves, the group decides to go out on the town to get some tattoos. Shanks, Turk, Glad, Galahad, Arguile, and even Dorna all join in getting tattoos and blowing off some steam. 

Later that night, Shanks, Turk, and Zechs all divulge what happened to them while they were out of commission, and they all had wild experiences with gods and patrons, which they are shocked by; this is fairly normal for them. There's a bit of inventory sorting and such before heading out to negotiate for Galahad's belt. With some trades, gold, and bartering, he's able to acquire the Belt of Fire Giant Strength. There are plans to pick up their special gear, Glad's boon via airship, and a trip to the Ren Faire for some much-needed revelry after a long few weeks. 

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage! 

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics 

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Locking eyes with Shanks, the necromancer speaks a single word and casts Power Word Kill. Shanks falls dead, and the battlefield goes silent. But only for a moment, and as the battle rages on to its imminent conclusion, Shanks finds himself in the Veil. He is met there by his ancestral God, The Hunter. The two converse on his journey through life and his progress toward balance. Their conversation ended with the awakening of Mind’s Eye to its full potential. Meanwhile, the party pushes their enemies toward defeat when the necromancer casts Cone of Cold, dropping Turk unconscious.

As he falls, time slows to a stop, and he meets his much-maligned patron, Kas the Bloody-handed. The Vampire questions Turks' resolve and motivations for his pact, ultimately relieving the halfling of his powers after he refuses to do the betrayer's bidding. Turk isn’t the only one pushed to the edge by the Cone of Cold. Zechs soon falls unconscious after a strike from the barbarian. The Tabaxi awakes in a vision of the spirit world of his people, the Goddess of the realm at his side. Tumra, the Snow Leopard, helps the Ranger unburden himself through thoughtful conversation and quiet contemplation. 

As the battle comes to a dramatic close, with Salix performing the revivify spell on Shanks’ lifeless body, the archer’s time in the Veil draws to a close. He meets the Matron of Ravens, who informs him that his time in the land of the living is not at an end. She, like the party, is opposed to the Constable’s plans and wishes for him to take her blessing back to stop the needless loss of life, once and for all. Shanks accepts this gift as everything fades to black.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics 

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As they camp, a series of night watches deepens bonds within the group. The Turk and Yurik discuss family, Arguile and Zechs address guilt and growth, and Galahad and Shanks confront their looming destinies. Glad severs ties with her former divine patron and embraces her ancestral power, while the party later gathers around the fire to share personal stories. More heartfelt conversations follow the next night as Arguile and Yurik open up, Zechs and The Turk trade histories, and Galahad, Glad, and Salix reflect on divine manipulation and the hard choices ahead.

Descending into the Underdark, the party regroups with Shanks, scouts for purple worm tunnels, and prepares for the horrors of Ors Thurmar. They negotiate with intelligent fungi, offering enemy corpses in exchange for information, and tensions rise around the fiendish aura of Yurik’s sentient sword. When giant spiders attack in tight quarters, the group prevails but grows increasingly wary of Yurik’s behavior. Using telepathy, scouting, and quick thinking, they navigate Myconid territory, skirt a spore ritual that briefly knocks out The Turk, rest, and continue through glowing bioluminescent caverns toward the dangers still awaiting them.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 28, “Smash and Grab”. How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics 

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we kick off the fight, Bob hurls a psychic lance at the sister and gets the party started. The fight commences, and Sister Flinthorn isn't pulling any punches against the crew. After Valen zooms at her, throwing several kicks and punches, a confused look passes over him as she has used the shield to beef herself up for this encounter. She turns to the rest of the group and casts synaptic static at them, and throws a monkey wrench immediately at any of their plan. Chantico fires off some scorching rays and uses fiery teleport to better reposition herself, Bob uses cloud of daggers, and Thorak attempts to grapple her himself, but gets banished instead, but only briefly, as a blow from Valen breaks her concentration. It's a more brutal fight than they had anticipated, for sure. Chantico sets the roof and Sister ablaze with flame strike, and Ursus lands a decisive blow to Flinthorn. Before the crowd gathers further, Valen slips away to get a feel for the town and to see if stopping her had any effect on the citizens. It didn't, and in fact, the closer Valen moved towards the mines, the more it felt as if something was trying to prevent him from going into them and exploring further. With his stillness of mind, he manages to come back to his senses and regroups with the party.

Meanwhile, the party makes their exit after the fiery explosion that took the church with molten bronze and THE book in tow. Back at their lodging for the evening, the group divvies up watches and insists on keeping an eye on the townsfolk who are giving off strange vibes. They are muttering, and all seem to be gathering around the middle of the town, amongst a great bonfire. Valen, having observed this on the rooftop during his watch, informs the next watch, Thorak, of what is going on. Thorak takes his watch to experiment with some bits of monster he's collected and some other varying items to try to make a poison of some kind, a failed first attempt, but it makes for great learning. The final watch is split between Ursus and Chantico: Chantico on the rooftop, where Valen observed the crazed townfolk, and Ursus below, keeping an eye on things internally. Chantico updates Ursus on the happenings in this bizarre mining town, and he tells her to prepare a good mix of spells for the fight ahead. As they get ready for the day, they look back and see the square emptying and heading towards the mines. An eerie, ominous, and chilling dread washes over the party at this information. 

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood & Booze! 

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The fight opens in chaos: Shanks fires a concussive shot at the cleric as Galahad and Arguile are stunned, and the barbarian hounds Zechs with smite-infused strikes. The monk shadow-steps to Shanks, stunning him, while Salix restrains the necromancer, only for him to immediately hurl a fireball into the group. Galahad answers with Channel Divinity, dropping the cleric, and Glad heals him with her circlet before attempting to finish her off, but a blight from the necromancer weakens Glad’s blows. The barbarian lands a reckless hit on Galahad, Arguile critically wounds the cleric, and Turk summons a spirit of death to pressure the monk, though its necrotic damage is resisted. Stuns continue to fly as undead thralls join the fray; Turk counters a blight aimed at a stunned Galahad, Glad restrains the necromancer with her wand, accidentally sticking Salix to him, and Shanks trades shots with the monk. Arguile ultimately delivers the killing blow to the cleric.

Momentum shifts again as Zechs’ lightning arrow misfires, clipping the stunned Galahad, and Turk’s eldritch blasts are blunted by shields tied to the Elrin light. The monk keeps Galahad locked down with repeated stuns and even drops Turk briefly, while the necromancer’s thralls batter Salix back into their true form and hammer Galahad to the brink. A devastating fireball drops Galahad and Lorainne outright; as Galahad fades, he reaches out to Bahamut, is met by a golden sparrow, and affirms his faith. Empowered by Bahamut’s blessing, rage beyond death, he rises again, eyes glowing azure as seven golden sparrows circle him.

With Galahad back in the fight, Shanks outplays the monk, baiting reactions before landing the decisive double shots; Arguile and Zechs finish him moments later, and Zechs clears the remaining skeletons. The barbarian turns her fury on Turk as Salix’s psychic lance is counterspelled and the necromancer’s zombies miss. Then the necromancer locks eyes with Shanks and utters Power Word Kill. The battlefield falls silent as Shanks collapses dead...

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage! 

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics 

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party arrives at the cemetery and meets Shepard Miles, Yurik's Crew, and Dorna, with tension so thick it threatens to erupt at any moment. That fuse is struck when Arioch appears as a golden-skinned elf and reveals the truth behind the tragedy binding them all together: Yurik is Arguile’s biological father. Long ago, a bargain to save Arguile’s life replaced Arguile’s heart with his father’s, at the cost of all parties forgetting one another. Fate, or Arioch’s cruel amusement, later reunited Yurik and Dorna, resulting in the birth of Enich, Arguile’s younger brother. All of it, Arioch admits, was done simply because it entertained him.

Arioch then presents Yurik and Arguile with a horrific choice: his army needs a general, and there are two candidates for one position, so they must fight for it. Despite pleas and defiance, Yurik attacks first, begging forgiveness as Arguile refuses to strike back and challenges Arioch’s logic. The demon’s answer is merciless: it’s more fun this way. To force compliance, Arioch seizes Dorna and threatens to kill and resurrect her repeatedly until they fight in earnest. After a brutal demonstration of his power, father and son are forced to take the duel seriously. The party can only watch, unable to intervene without certain death, offering what aid they can through spells and support, until Arioch halts all interference. When both Yurik and Arguile offer themselves to spare Dorna, Arioch instead forces Dorna to choose. He then cruelly infects Enich with the same disease that once afflicted Arguile, declaring her son’s life limited either way. In the end, Yurik agrees to go with Arioch, granted only a brief farewell with his family, a devastating moment with no true victory.

As Yurik is taken away, Enich escorts Dorna to safety in a nearby crypt, and the focus shifts to the remaining threat: Yurik's Crew preparing to fight. The party braces itself as battle erupts, immediately turning against them when a necromancer raises a dozen skeletons to swell the enemy ranks. Galahad is stunned out of the fight by a monk, Shanks lands a heavy blow on the cleric, only for them to heal and press on, and what once looked like a manageable encounter rapidly becomes a brutal, uphill struggle. With no clear victor in sight, the clash marks only the beginning of an even darker confrontation to come.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade 

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics 

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Still in Ors Themar, the party finishes a short rest and prepares to escape, quickly realizing that leaving the city may be as dangerous as entering it. They navigate tight passages, dispel glyphs, and move with hushed precision, managing to avoid further combat and finally put distance between themselves and the city before making camp for the night. During watches, they process the weight of what they witnessed. Shanks thanks Yurik for the rescue, concerns are raised about Ors Themar’s implications for Nakoroa, and the group reflects on how dire the situation may be.

During the watches, deeper conversations unfold. Turk and Glad discuss Glad’s fallout with The Protector, while Arguile admits he initially believed Yurik was the threat his mother, Dorna, was facing. Galahad and Shanks speak candidly about fear, death, how Galahad’s aura functions, and a new potion Shanks has been developing. By morning, Shanks discovers a small copper coin and a raven’s feather, an ominous sign, while Arguile notices the stone’s count has dropped to two. Alarmed, the group breaks camp and heads back toward the city with urgency, stopping one last time at the now-empty field where the cursed cabin once stood. Overnight, the stone drops further, ticking down from 0.5 to 0.1 as they approach.

Upon entering the city, a shepherd informs Yurik that Shepard Miles has summoned them to their usual meeting place. Before going, they detour to Yurik and Dorna’s home, only to find it empty as the stone finally reaches zero. As Yurik struggles to understand where Dorna could be, questions arise about his connection to Shepard Miles. Shanks realizes Arioch has been manipulating events behind the scenes all along, and when Galahad asks about Yurik’s sword, Yurik reveals it was given to him by Shepard Miles. Recognizing the urgency, Shanks insists they leave immediately, and as they rush to confront Shepard Miles, the group identifies Yurik’s blade as Tempest’s Edge.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the twelfth episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Law, and Tone discuss and come up with the lore surrounding the northern city of Stargrave. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the Northeast of Sloane.

VO: Lawrence Bentiné Jr., Antonio Perez, and Thomas Lapierre III

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick up where we left off the morning after the party's stakeout of sorts. It seems as if Ursus was not the only person visited last night, as we learn Bob also came in contact with an unfamiliar figure, presumably an Ashen Child. The party splits for the morning, with the Slash Bros at the temple, where they find Sister Flinthorn, who discusses Ursus' evening encounter with the Ashen Children and receives a refresher course on who the Silent Keeper is. Back at the tavern, where the rest of the group is having some food, they start connecting the dots regarding what happened with the ships, the Ashen Children, and other things that haven't lined up. Chantico's sister, Tozi, gets in contact with her amid all this and checks in on her, informing her that she will get back to her about Bob when she has more information to share.

Eventually, Bob, Ursus, and Thorak meet with everyone else. After exchanging information, they conclude that while the circumstances are similar to those of a false hydra, these are not identical situations. This doesn't leave the group feeling much better about their circumstances. It's then that they realize they are marking themselves, and they are losing time every time they encounter the being (or beings) causing all of this. After that, they attend their meeting and obtain the address where they were just yesterday, but with a different point of contact. Not Lua Hugh, but a one Nora Vakara. Instead of drawing too much attention to the discrepancy, they leave to go investigate.

It's here that things really go off the rails. As they approach the home, the group realizes time has been passing rapidly, and marks are appearing more frequently. It's then that Thorak uses Paco as his eyes, while Valen blindfolds himself and utilizes his blindsense, a way to see without being affected by the entities causing all this. And, to their (mis)fortune, they can see and begin fighting the strange grey beings and instruct the group to keep them contained. By losing eye contact with them, they forget, so Valen stuns one, Thorak grows large and grapples a few, and Chantico restrains one via her druidic magic. An intense fight later, they manage to restrain one with a rope and with Bob's tentacles, Elizabeth, and kill the rest of them. They take them through the city to the temple and try to gauge the situation. In showing the creature to Sister Flintorn, something bothered Thorak. He catches a faint glimpse of a smirk that just barely creeps over her face, and with that, Thorak yells to Bob to restrain her.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade Blood & Booze!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amid a chaotic tactical retreat, the party is scattered and under heavy pressure. Arguile is locked in combat with a draegloth, Shanks is on the brink of death, Yurik is struggling to reconnect with the group, and Galahad, glowing and highly visible, draws relentless enemy fire while attempting evasive maneuvers. Zechs deploys an axe beak from his Tan Bag of Tricks to disrupt the draegloth, while Duo delivers Shanks’ chained alchemist fire to further weaken it, allowing Salix to extract Arguile by eagle. Meanwhile, Galahad is struck by a lightning arrow and badly injured, Turk and Glad remain stuck to him, and Salix, Zechs, and a barely lucid Arguile scramble to locate Shanks with no clear bearings.

Duo is sent ahead to search and coordinate, eventually catching up to Yurik and guiding him through the chaos of Ors Thurmar. Zechs summons additional eagles to aid the search, but they are shot down, costing the group time and momentum. Turk and Glad fend off a chasme while stuck to Galahad, and Salix creates a decoy image to draw sniper fire, giving the party a chance to regroup and escape at low altitude. Yurik contributes by unleashing a firestorm toward the area where the group fell. Through quick thinking and teamwork, Salix, Zechs, and Arguile reach Shanks in time and pull him back from death. Once reunited, Zechs uses alcohol from the Bag of Holding to dissolve the substance binding Galahad, Turk, and Glad, allowing the party to move together again.

The group is then approached by a pale man, urging them to move quickly and quietly, revealed to be Enich, Yurik’s son and Arguile’s half-brother. After brief explanations of his disappearance and how he’s survived, Enich leads them to a hidden safe spot where they can rest and recover. The brothers share a quiet moment bonding over family memories, and Enich confirms hearing rumors of Elrin topside, but nothing of Arioch. Shanks and Arguile exchange coded words in Thieves’ Cant, revealing that Arguile’s stone has grown warmer in the Underdark and that its number has dropped significantly, raising new concerns. With questions unanswered but strength regained, Enich points out a route out of the city, and the party prepares to move on.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the battle continues, resources dwindle, and there seems to be no end to the enemy in sight, it becomes clear that the party needs to regroup. Shanks is still making his way down and back to the group when Zechs hears Shanks go down through their coms. His target exacted revenge on him, but it's not the first time Shanks has knocked on Death's door. Time begins to slow down as Yurik grabs Arguile and heads off to pick up their fallen ally.

Meanwhile, injured and starting to feel the need for a tactical retreat, Galahad opens his wings, grabbing Turk and Glad for a chase down the streets of Ors Themar, keeping himself below the height of the buildings that surround them. While taking a significant hit, he manages to drop his passengers, but with some speed and teamwork, and mostly the help of a certain Bubblegum Wand, the three are back together and continue their exit.

Yurik is finally able to grab Shanks and uses Dimension Door to get himself near the group, now making their escape. With some quick thinking from Zechs, being carried by a giant eagle version of Salix and his Hole Thrower, he manages to put an 18-foot hole in the ground between them and their pursuers. He also tosses an item from his Tan Bag of Tricks, which turns out to be a baboon, that he lets loose on the enemy on their tails. Just another typical adventure for the Collateral crew, huh?

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With their guide, Ernie, providing the information he could about the goings-on at the mine, the information was troubling, and it was clear that the mine was not for the faint of heart. Chantico appears visibly uncomfortable as she has been actively suppressing her magic. Upon further taking a look at Chan, Valen realizes it's not her suppressing her magic so much as it is that her flame has been dimmed, as if she is not feeling herself fully.

Eventually, a plan emerges to investigate the depths of the mine further, using Dona riding a polymorphed Ursus as a giant spider, and Thorak using beast sense on him. What they find, or rather what they think they sensed, leaves the three with more questions and uneasiness. Eventually, they briefly reconnect over drinks and attempt to put their heads together to discuss their findings. Bob & Thorak put their heads together and determined that some of the markings they had found correlated with the King in Yellow.

That evening, plans are made to set up lodging in one of the abandoned homes, and sleep in shifts to catch any strange activity happening from an adjacent building. Bob would act as bait, and the other party members would swoop in if anything went awry. If only things were that simple. That evening. Ursus is visited by one of the ashen children, and this mysterious adventure only gets more bizarre.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shanks brings the house down, and in a way, sets the stage for this next fight to take place. As he scales down while avoiding debris, he also takes note that he didn't kill his intended target, but at the very least, he's immobilized from what he can tell. Keeping communication going with Zechs, trying his best to maintain a line of sight, and scaling down the rugged terrain is taking every bit of mental energy from our demolition elf. 

Meanwhile, the party faces off against an iron golem, multiple Chasme, scavengers, and has Armenites incoming. While they aren't taking heavy damage by any means, they are already feeling the fatigue, mental drain, and dwindling resources as they face off against another seemingly endless wave of enemies. The once quiet streets of Ors Themar now grow louder with the clanging of metal, buzzing of chasime, hoofs in the distance nearing closer, and spells being shot off from the spell casters. It's still too early to call a winner; there's a lot of fight left to have, and so much of the city still to explore.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by ⁠Efflorescence⁠

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the party continues their short rest, taking stock, and figuring out next steps, Shanks is in pursuit of their sniper assailant. When the group is ready to go, thanks to the help of Yurik's sentient blade, they begin heading deeper into the city. The once-bustling streets and seemingly thriving city look nothing like what was described before the invasion took place. A marketplace now in ruins, the group splits to cover more ground and look for clues as to where Enich can be. Thankfully, Arguile knows Thieves' Cant and can make out some messages that help clue him into a possible location for his brother. The party makes their way inside a shop to investigate further.

As this is happening, Zechs is getting information relayed to him via Shanks. He's in pursuit of the sniper, and he suspects the group is being tracked somehow, again. Zechs relays the information to the group, and Arguile begins to ritually cast identify until they hear something significant approaching them outside. Glad, Yurik, and Galahad immediately go outside, with the rest following soon after. They find themselves face-to-face with a large iron golem, and another fight commences.

It's not much later that they hear even more enemies approaching them, and the party braces itself for another long and arduous fight. Meanwhile, at the sniper's last known location, Shanks is making a tactical assessment of how to approach and what out of his bag of goodies he can use to bring the house down. After some time, a lot of triple-checking his work, and a lot of second-guessing himself, he decides how he's going to make quite the explosive display and not get himself caught in the blast. The pieces are set, the match is lit, and a fuse is ready to go boom!

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up in the midst of the group’s current skirmish and ambush against an unending number of foes. It’s a stressful and taxing fight on every level. As time passes and resources are exhausted, the group begins to make some headway, but their brief moment of reprieve is met with even more opposition. It’s a numbers game, and the enemy has them in spades. Knowing this, they continue to fight their way through and into the city. Eventually, they finally see the end of this wave of assault and can stop, regroup, and assess their next movements. As Galahad gathers materials to bring back in exchange for his new belt and the group begins looting, Shanks heads to the sniper tower to investigate further and see what he can make of their assailant, and relays his findings to Zechs via the Spies Murmur. It’s here that he stumbles into a trap laid out just for this occasion, a well-placed Alarm spell placed just at the foot of this perch in the path leading up to it, hidden well.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the group departs for Iwi, they briefly reunite with past allies Cereius, Attros, and Doctor Honeydew, noting significant changes in their magical gear and a new ally, We Ahqua. Flashbacks reveal Arguile fleeing mid-heist under the curse of lycanthropy, with Greyleaf, Duo, and Shanks tracking him down and subduing him until morning. With the curse lifted, the group reconnects, makes camp, and prepares for the next leg of their journey. After notifying their families and arranging travel via Rig, they arrive in Nykorua and begin adjusting—Arguile’s hometown is alien to most of the party, leading to humorous missteps, the discovery of Arguile’s many aliases, and a tailor named Elmira who upgrades their wardrobe. As the group explores the city, they enjoy both fun and introspective moments, with Arguile meeting Mira, who provides a lead on his mother and returns his hidden stash. Meanwhile, Galahad acquires a temporary weapon and orders a custom-fused blade from a smith named Jax, while Zechs excitedly pitches gadget ideas.

After shopping and training, the group visits the Crystal Gardens for a brief connection to nature and gathers more information about the city’s rules, history, and key figures. Arguile shares insights about his guild and their operations compared to others, giving the party a clearer view of the city’s underworld. The team’s next mission begins to take shape as they prepare to locate Arguile’s mother and address mounting threats. With their goals set, they make their way toward the Spire District, eyes forward on what may be their most personal and revealing journey yet.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 27 “Much Ado About Dorna ”.

How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Upon arriving at Midmount, the party begins investigating a series of strange events. Thorak, disguised as “Snorak” using his hat of disguise, gathers information from the locals under the pretense of being a new foreman. Rumors of a mine explosion and memory issues surface, and as they journey further into town, Thorak continues his ruse to gain access to the city center. They’re led by a woman named Sam to Lua Hugh, another foreman. Still, their vague story about missing shipments and lack of documentation gets them quickly dismissed, until Bob’s improvisation about searching for a brother elicits Lua’s sympathy. She brings them back in privately and offers to help, though she admits she doesn’t know how much she truly can.

Meanwhile, Valen investigates the area and notices unsettling signs: his reflection shows a black smear on his face, and his hands appear stained with charcoal. Back inside, Lua gives the group some names, but strange happenings continue: Bob finds a pencil in his hand that he doesn’t recall taking, and everyone in the group is marked with charcoal without explanation. Dona spots this first, and as they regroup and speak with locals, they learn that such marks began appearing after the mine explosion, linked to something ominously called the “ashen children.” The more they explore, the more markings appear, and no one seems to know how or why.

Dona uses Primeval Awareness and senses aberrational presence coming from the mine, while Valen’s Detect Thoughts spell picks up nearby minds he cannot locate. Still disguised, “Snorak” presses further into the mine pretending to be an inspector, hoping to piece together the puzzle of the explosion, the missing shipments, the mysterious children, and the rising aberrations. But as the group delves deeper, the marks on them grow stranger, until one final message appears, stark and urgent: RUN!

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood & Booze!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Within the city walls, the group makes their way through the once thriving city, now unrecognizable as its streets are barren. The group cautiously makes its way through the city, careful not to draw any attention. A formation is called out, and they proceed, ready for whatever dangers lie ahead of them. Unfortunately, their caution was met with curiosity, and when Arguile investigated the gargoyle, that curiosity was then met with flame. Most of the group is hit, and immediately the party realizes that a fight is underway. Shanks unloads a volley of arrows at one of the gargoyles, doing overkill but trying to buy the team some time. Chasme buzz, scavengers approach, and they can hear the sounds of hooves in the distance growing louder.

In the exchange, Shanks is hit by a highly unfamiliar, large arrow that comes from an unidentified assailant. Salix turns into a cave bear, and Zechs pulls a black bear out of his bag of tricks to join the fray. We have two gargoyles now joining to take on Galahad and the team. While making quick work of enemies, they are realizing the position that they’re in. This is going to be a resource challenge and a numbers game, with more enemies than they have resources available; every decision they make is crucial. Zechs uses his Tabaxi speed to run for some better cover and vantage point while yelling to Shanks in their coms, “What the fuck is hitting us, and PLEASE tell me you have eyes on that!”

In the distance, the group sees what has been making the galloping noises, a small army of Armanites, demonic centaur-like creatures that have been dealing a ton of damage to the group amidst this whole exchange. The group has been burning resources, taking a lot of damage, but they’re holding their own, for now.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Edited & Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the group continues heading towards the city of Ors Themar, they pass more denizens of the Underdark: an umberhulk and a hook horror, to be precise. As Galahad asks Yurik if he knows the way to continue, Shanks, who had scouted ahead, tells Zechs in his Spies Murmur that he hears voices ahead. After Zechs tells him to get closer but be careful, Shanks, unfamiliar with the language the voices are using, immediately realizes they are speaking Undercommon. Zechs relays that they are talking about the party, and they seem uneasy and untrusting, at least mostly. Zechs informs Shanks to hold his position, assuring him that they will come to him shortly while remaining stealthy. It’s at this point that the group, Zechs taking the lead and accompanied by Galahad, is accompanied by the trio of Drow that are there.

The conversation is tense and skeptical, as the group of Drow describes the current situation of Ors Themar. While the party is told that Enich is likely not alive anymore, they say they want to confirm that information for themselves. Upon speaking further, they realize that they have a shared ally, Nedyrae, who is Chico’s replacement at the Tavern. As this is happening, Yurik whips out a game of Dragonchess and asks Arguile if he’s up for a game while the likely long discussion takes place. After a relatively close match between the two, Arguile comes out the victor. Galahad, walking back, informs the party that the group will be escorting them down to Ors Themar.

Continuing, the group hears loud droning noises and is informed that these are the Chasme they will likely encounter while there. Giant insect-like creatures that are not to be taken lightly. Sabal shares his dark story about the siege from his perspective, and it’s genuinely haunting. And Galahad offers the story about Collateral’s liberation of Invenas. The two bond over how they want to go out, and Sabal says that so long as he takes a bunch of them out too, he’d be okay with that. Yurik and Arguile discuss how Yurik is so sure that Enich is alive, and in turn, Yurik tells him that it is similar to how Arguile knew that his mother was alive and out there. Eventually, they are on the outskirts of the city and are planning their entry. Learning from their last attempt to enter a city amidst a siege, they decide not to use the front gate. Once inside, they take stock of the wreckage and do their best to avoid being seen, all the while hearing the ominous droning sounds that grow louder the further into the city they go.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Edited & Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The group starts their day preparing for the voyage to Midmount, with mixed feelings about crossing the ocean. Chan is visibly anxious, running between her room and downstairs, mainly worried about being a fire hazard on a wooden boat. Valen offers his magical flask to ease her nerves. Bob sings a sea shanty from his mentor, Rosco, while Dona expresses her apprehension about traveling by water. Thankfully, Thorak ensures everyone is well-fed with his signature large meals. Upon arrival at the docks, the group is guided by an automaton to their ship, The Voyager, where they meet its warforged captain, Vessel, and a crew of small automatons. As they set sail, Bob privately asks Valen for help meditating to contact his patron. Valen agrees and encourages Bob to speak with Thorak, a cleric, for spiritual guidance.

While settling in, Bob attempts his first connection with his patron and feels something stir. Excited, he shares the moment with Valen, who continues practicing with his sword and experimenting with his magical flask. One swig causes him to burp fire, but the next renders him ethereal, unseen but present, leading to concern from the rest of the group. Valen enjoys the new experience, but the others, especially Thorak, decide the flask should be taken from him temporarily. After a heartfelt conversation, Dona returns it with a promise from Valen to use it more mindfully going forward. Meanwhile, Bob dives deeper into his connection with his patron and finds himself submerged in a vision. He senses another presence and questions whether he’s being punished for failing to recognize his patron sooner.

The next morning, Valen recounts his brief shift into the ethereal plane, noting that while reckless, it was helpful in future encounters. While Bob studies the maps, Chan explores the ship and familiarizes herself with Vessel. Valen and Thorak train together, with Thorak now blindfolded and relying on his familiar Paco to “see,” testing strategies that may come in handy. Bob and Chan reflect on his vision; though she’s uncertain how to help, she offers to consult her sister, who’s more knowledgeable about such matters. Grateful, Bob thanks her. As the day ends, Vessel informs the party that they are one day away from Midmount. The group prepares for landfall and begins planning their next steps to uncover the mysteries behind the strange occurrences...

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of Medusa’s Cascade: Blood & Booze

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We resume with the group in the midst of a fight against giant spiders. They have to fight in tight quarters and carefully, but manage to come out victorious. As the group continues to venture forward, it continues to question Yurik’s peculiar behavior. After some gentle prodding, Yurik comes halfway clean about his current situation. His sword is not only sentient but also drives him to slay creatures every so often, it seems. While some of the party members are familiar with sentient weapons and the magical energies this blade gives off, so long as it isn’t a problem, they won’t pry any further. As they continue, there’s a lot of dependence on Yurik to guide the party, which he does, but there’s an obvious tension in the air as they pass Myconids who seem to pay them no mind. They continue across a cavern further into the Underdark.

Eventually, they use some quick thinking and teamwork to navigate further. With the help of The Turk’s telepathy, the group can communicate with the fungal residents of the Underdark, aiding in confirming some of the information they have. While traveling a bit further, the group comes upon a group of them performing a ritual of some kind, and tries to give them a wide berth. Trying to be as stealthy as they can, not everyone can avoid being affected by a cloud of spores, as The Turk briefly goes unconscious and is woken up by a firm goliath hand to the face. Before moving forward, The Turk sends Jolene ahead to scout further, and the group takes the opportunity to take a short rest. When they begin to travel again, they are surrounded by bioluminescent spores that aren’t harmful as far as they can tell, and continue onwards.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed & Edited by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party resumes their evening watch rotation, beginning with Arguile and Yurik, who open up to one another about their pasts, sharing stories that highlight their respective journeys. Zechs and The Turk take the second shift, engaging in a reflective conversation about the bonds they’ve built within the group. Although both acknowledge that their time together may be temporary, they find comfort in the growing trust between them. Zechs shares how he came to join Collateral, while The Turk discusses his pre-party life. For the final watch, Galahad fills in for Glad, who eventually joins alongside Salix. The three of them discuss divine manipulation, personal growth, and the heavy choices ahead, particularly those Galahad must soon face.

The following day, the party begins their descent into the Underdark. Zechs casts darkvision on Galahad and The Turk, while Shanks rejoins the group after completing his ranger training. He and Yurik scout ahead for signs of purple worm tunnels, dangerous but potentially profitable. During this, Shanks opens up to The Turk about their respective warlock pacts, while Zechs takes a quiet moment to read a long-held note from Shanks. As they travel, Shanks and Salix harvest functional materials, and Yurik warns of the monstrous dangers that await in Ors Thurmar, jokingly betting Shanks a reward if he manages to slay one alone, a challenge Shanks eagerly accepts.

Deeper into the Underdark, the group encounters multiple possible routes, each with its own dangers. Jolene scouts ahead, confirming the presence of enemies, while Zechs uses Speak with plants to communicate with the local fungi. A deal is struck: in exchange for information, the group will feed the mushrooms the corpses of their enemies. Arguile and the fungi exchange tense words, but Zechs smooths things over. As they travel on, concerns grow around the eerie energy of Yurik’s sword, fiendish and undead in nature. Galahad walks with Yurik, questioning his aggressive demeanor toward the party. Before their talk can go further, Yurik charges into combat, signaling that the next fight is upon them.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed & Edited by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meanwhile, in the present, the rest of the party learns more about Nymora’s hidden leadership and plans defenses. Hoshino initiates a covert operation, while Shanks and Greyleaf interrogate a cult target, gathering key intelligence. Everyone then regroups at the inn and meets a new ally, Turk.

While Zechs and his group witness Malar’s avatar call for the Wild Hunt in the past, divine avatars arrive to oppose him in a chaotic battle. Afi later reveals that although Malar can be extracted, the aspect inside Zechs cannot be destroyed or contained—only managed. This adds emotional weight to Zechs as he must interrupt the ritual at his sacrifice site. In the present, Galahad incapacitates cultists preparing for the event, while Hoshino infiltrates the enemy to gather valuable intel from Five Shadow. As all groups reconvene, they plan for the night’s ritual. Zechs, Galahad, Turk, and Glad perform the ritual, while the others keep watch. Enich, revealed as Arguile’s alternate and a Paladin of Arioch, engages the team with chilling declarations of divine judgment. The ritual begins, sparking parallel battles inside Zechs’ mind against Malar and outside against Enich.

Both battles are intense. Malar summons wolves and fire, countered by coordinated efforts from Galahad, Turk, Zechs, and Glad. Zechs lands several divine-infused blows while Turk disrupts Malar’s casting. Enich proves to be an overwhelming foe—casting powerful necrotic magic and holding off the team with resilient defenses and his Dread Lord ability. Salix is downed but revived, Shanks lands a critical blow with a poisoned arrow, and Greyleaf, Glad, and Zechs continue their assault. The tide turns when Galahad strikes Malar with Kana’s Fury and ends the fight. As the group returns to consciousness, the battle with Enich continues. Despite his strength and spellwork, the full force of Collateral wears him down. Galahad batters him in a brutal exchange before Glad finishes him with Sacred Flame, finally ending the threat and offering the team a hard-earned, bittersweet victory.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 26, “Nymora to Nakoroa”.

How will the rest of this story unfold?

Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We begin with Izca’s recovery, closely monitored by Norkin. For days, she felt the lingering presence of the King, his incomprehensible words still echoing within her. Eventually, aided by a mysterious guiding voice and the support of those around her, she regained enough clarity to understand that help had arrived. After a formal trial, it was determined that she posed no threat, having acted under an influence beyond her control. The party that apprehended her was praised and rewarded for their actions, and Izca was granted her freedom. At the council’s request, the group was asked to provide a name to officially record their deeds.

Flashing back three weeks before the elder brain battle, Bob and Dona emerge at Tradeshore from the soft spot and stumble upon a burning ship approaching the docks. Their attempt to rescue survivors fails, leaving them with a grim, unanswered message. Weeks later, a second vessel drifts into port, this time crewless and reeking of death. Below deck, a grotesque sculpture made of bodies is discovered—draped in yellow cloth and topped with a crowned head. A lifeless body, impaled by a ceremonial dagger, appears to be the person responsible. The grim discovery prompts another investigation and summons the party back to the small council.

Back at the Witty Glaive, the party reunites over breakfast, reflecting on their time since the elder brain battle—working, training, shopping, and resting. They welcome their newest ally, Chan, and receive heartfelt gifts from Bob. Plans for the day are laid, including a stop at Zari’s Haberdashery to collect enchanted items. Afterward, they meet again with the council, who request their help with disturbances in Midmount. Before preparing for that, they visit Izca to ensure her well-being. She assures them she’s safe for now and intends to head for the mountains eventually. The chapter closes with a mysterious, fiery-haired figure speaking with Dona, revealing herself as Lore. After discussing her blood hunter abilities, they forge a contract, hinting at deeper implications to come.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood & Booze

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up with the group wrapping up dinner and figuring out watches for the night’s rest. We have The Turk and Yurik first, whose conversation begins with The Turk apologizing for putting Yurik up for a fight with Galahad, and then transitions into a discussion about family, upbringing, and their current situation. Arguile and Zechs are on second watch, where Zechs apologizes to Arguile for not being there for him as often as he thinks he should be. Arguile hears him out further but assures him that no apology was ever needed, as they all have their own things that they’re working through, and it’s easy to fall into groups amongst the party. Arguile asks Zechs how he’s doing post Malar, and Zechs reveals that while he’s relieved, it feels strange not to have him there, but most of all, while he knows he couldn't do anything at the time, there is still some guilt in just letting him loose to the planes. They end with talks of their love life, once there’s time to think about it after saving the planes, for Arguile, potentially reconnecting with Cenari, Zechs expresses that he approves and reveals that he’d probably try to see where things went with Kivela from the Shuffle Guild to Arguile’s surprise, and finally joke that Galahad is likely holding out for the Executioner one day. Finally, we get to the third watch with Shanks and Galahad, who catch up and express their thoughts about what’s to come for them and if they’re prepared for the inevitable decision they’ll have to make. For Galahad, it’s putting a stop to Antonius and his father, and for Shanks, it’s putting a stop to his mother.

The next day on the road, Glad is having a conversation with an unknown figure, and it gets heated rather quickly. Though the party can only hear half of the conversation, they picked up that the conversation was between Glad and The Protector. There’s an awkward silence as things continue until eventually she sends him off in colorful fashion, and her magic dissipates around her, but in its place, there is the energy of protection around her from her ancestors, reaffirming her relinquishing herself as a cleric and embracing this road of rediscovery as a barbarian. After this, Zechs briefly speaks with Glad to check in on her and then sends Duo to accompany her for this part of the trip until they arrive at camp.

We end with the group going around the campfire, revealing more about themselves to each other. It’s a thoughtful bonding experience that The Turk introduced to them, and they are grateful for the refreshing, somewhat more cheerful conversation, even Duo and Yurik get involved, to everyone’s surprise and delight. After which, the group decides on watches and settles down for the evening.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ah, where were we? Yes, the never-ending forest and the suspicious woman in the cabin. The group finds itself still stuck in this loop and getting very frustrated by the process. Galahad now approaches the cabin with The Turk in tow and has a heated conversation with a perplexed woman named Mal, whom the group attempts to explain that she has met before. She tells the group that they are more than welcome inside, and she can make them some tea, which has a mix of reactions and responses. The Turk, having gone inside and taken note of the inside of the cabin, notices some books that catch his eye and feel out of place. While he can’t make heads or tails of it, he offers the information up to the group in the hopes that one of them can. The rogues attempt to put their heads together using their insights and eye for detail to see if they can see something that is being hidden in plain sight. Lo and behold, it’s Galahad who figures out that the books contain a shift cipher, and it’s with that bit of information that the group manages to connect the dots that they are in the Endless Maze. There is concern and a lot of plans being made to escape the maze, with Zechs trying to follow Duo and eventually using Speak with Plants to talk to the nearby trees, Arguile inspecting the cabin further, and Galahad doing a fly around with Duo to see if he can find and go through the path that Duo did. After which, Bahamut informs his champion that the only way out is through. It took some time to assess the meaning, as every conceivable plan was being made to circumvent the maze entirely. It was when they took a second to stop and take the words literally that they finally did make their way through. Eventually, they find their way out, seeing the cabin deteriorate as they came across it one last time, and they continued on their way. We end with dinner and evening watches as Zechs and Shanks speak to a seemingly frustrated Arguile and try to get him to open up on what’s been bothering him. After some words of wisdom from the Elven archer and some whiskey provided by Zechs, the three shared a laugh and were able to finally feel a bit more at ease with the given situation.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up with the party visiting Arguile’s contact, the Shade, again to negotiate the terms of the deal for Galahad’s belt. After this, the group returns to see Mr. Strauss, who asks Arguile if he would like to see Dorna to confirm his truthfulness. There is a momentary pause as Dorna turns to where Yurik has presented the party, as she drops her tea cup, leaps over the couch, and embraces Arguile. Mother and son reunited, the two are relieved to have found each other after such a long time, but question how it is that they could be so close to each other and miss one another for all that time. When the name Enich gets mentioned, there is a long, awkward pause from the group as they try to delicately determine if Yurik’s Enich is (or isn’t) Enich, Arguile’s alternate, AND the Skin Flayer. Thankfully, there’s a confirmation that they are, in fact, two different people, and with that, the group lets out a massive sigh of relief.

After the two catch up, Arguile introduces the team to his mother, and Dorna takes the opportunity to share fond memories of a younger Arguile to everyone’s enjoyment, especially Zechs. Shanks grabs Arguile for a second to confirm that the stone from Arioch is still showing a number, despite finding his mother safe, which it is. Shanks reads the written recount of the siege of Ors Themar by Commander Valen. It was a grim and seemingly unending fight that saw the Drow face to face with the horrors of fiends that poured into the city.

With that, the group rides to find Enich with Yurik. Unfortunately, on the way, they find themselves caught in a loop. They come up to a house in a clearing, and despite traveling away from it for some time, they find themselves back at it. This happens a few times before they decide to stop and investigate the strange occurrence. It’s at this point that Turk, accompanied by Arguile and Zechs, approaches the home to find an older woman who greets them. Everyone is wary and suspicious, but they meet and speak with the overly friendly woman. Zechs sends Duo out to check if the loop continues, which he confirms doesn’t, and with that, the group decides to bail as quickly as they came and continue to Ors Themar, to the other horrors that await them there. Or so they think...

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the eleventh episode of Across the Planes, Tom and Millie Odegard discuss and come up with the lore surrounding the moving city of Karvasii. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the central plane of Sloane.

VO: Millie Odegard, Frimmer Starstone, and Thomas Lapierre III

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party and the Elder Brain exchange words before facing off for what seems to be quite the battle for the party, with more muscle than not. There's a brief moment to prepare before things get going, and starting with Valen being thrown to the Elder Brain by the Slash Brothers. However, before they get a chance to do much else, most of the party is stunned due to a psychic attack, leaving the melee fighters out of the fight for quite some time. Chantico throws down a wall of fire, Valen is wrapped up by a tentacle, and Dona is firing shots from her bow, keeping the damage piling on.

Slowly, but surely, Thorak enters the fight again, dealing heavy damage to the creature of nightmares, but it's not without sustaining heavy damage himself. Valen, who is slowly getting hit points chipped away, is given some healing by Chantico, who tries to figure out how to help her new ally. Meanwhile, Thorak is now fighting a spectral entity known as the Herald of the King on the backline. Spells, arrows, blades, and obscenities fly as the fight continues. In the end, thanks to Bob and Ursus returning to the fray, they deal the decisive blows to their foe, defeating it, and they all receive visions of 3 figures who they assume will soon be enemies they encounter who work for the King in Yellow.

They gather themselves and their spoils and traverse back the way they came with Chantico, taking the lead. We end with the party taking off for a bit to do some work, gather supplies, train, and get some well-deserved rest.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party splits, with Salix and Glad heading to the Crystal Gardens to enjoy some rare city-bound nature, while the rest accompany Arguile to meet Mr. Strauss. Upon arrival, they’re surprised to learn Arguile is expected. They follow him upstairs, where they’re greeted by a frail-looking half-elf named Yurrik Strauss. After brief introductions, Arguile, revealing himself as Sylas Nicks, asks about his mother, Dorna. Yurrik, though guarded, shares that his son Enich went to Ors Themar to investigate a growing fiend presence but has since lost contact. In exchange for help finding Enich, Yurrik offers to assist in the search for Dorna. When he insists on joining the party on their journey, citing his skill with a greatsword, the group politely expresses concern about having to protect him through the Underdark.

To prove his capabilities, The Turk suggests a friendly spar between Yurrik and one of the party's strongest: Galahad. What follows is a surprisingly intense duel, ending in a double knockout. The bout leaves the entire party stunned, revealing that Yurrik possesses the might of a Rune Knight, growing in size and strength, and is a capable magic user who can hurl high-level fireballs. Galahad, meanwhile, uses the opportunity to test a new loaner mace. After everyone is healed up, they agree to regroup later and prepare for the trek to Ors Themar. Galahad, focused on his eventual showdown with Antonius, leads the group to the Old Quarter in search of a Belt of Storm Giant Strength.

While in the Old Quarter, Arguile reconnects with an old contact who negotiates a trade for Galahad: gold and rare goods from Ors Themar in exchange for powerful items, possibly even from their Bag of Holding. With the deal struck and other purchases made, the group scatters briefly. The scene ends with Shanks and Arguile spending some time at the shooting range, testing the rifle and sharing a rare moment of camaraderie between rogues.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick up with Arguile and Mira as she gives Arguile some updates regarding the city, information that’s relevant to finding his mother, and hands over the stash that she held for him. She informs him that his mother has been seen with a gentleman known as Yurrik Strauss and gives a description and possible locations for him. Back at the suite, they find that Elmira has delivered their new clothing as requested and even exceeded several party members’ expectations. As everyone enjoys a hearty breakfast, Arguile explains how his guild used to do things, the jobs they would receive, and the differences between themselves and the Shuffle Guild. The group gathers their things and follows Arguile for a tour of his hometown, which serves as both reconnaissance and a chance for him to collect information. At the same time, the party is preoccupied, despite their pleas against him operating on his own.

They take the trolley to the Blazing Forge to find Galahad a smith who can fuse both Kanna’s Fury and The Sun Sword into one new sword. While there, the group looks through the shop and finds that they might be in luck for some custom items that they request as well, but the new blade takes precedence. Galahad gets a new weapon, the Thunder Strike Mace, as a loaner in the meantime. The gentleman they are speaking to for this transaction, Jax, is taking orders for everyone, but looks at a wide-eyed Zechs, who is digging through his notes to give him a few ideas for some fun toys for his kit. Arguile and Shanks have a quick look at the weapons of Iwi as Arguile shows Shanks a rifle, which he “can’t get yet” and “needs a license for” so Arguile, who can get one, buys one and promises to teach Shanks how to use it and get the “appropriate paperwork”.

With that, the group finishes up their transaction and makes their way to the Crystal Gardens to touch some grass at the behest of Salix. On the way, Arguile provides further explanations about the city's rules and its watchers, also informing the group about the dos and don'ts. Provides a brief history lesson and addresses the additional questions that arise from the party. After some time, reconnecting with nature, the group makes plans for what to do next, and Arguile informs them of whom he is looking for to find his mother. We conclude with the party making their way towards the Spire District.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theme by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the group continues to traverse and make their way through the dungeon, they come upon a room with a table and several steins of ale laid across it. Chantico, Dona, and Urusus are suddenly compelled to go and have a drink. Before they all make their way to do so, the rest of the party members, understanding something is amiss, do their best to wake their party members up and out of their current conditions. Dona and Chan do come to, but Ursus has a more difficult time than the women as he continues to reach for this ale. Dona and Thorak do everything to smash and destroy these temptations, but to no avail, as they magically reappear on the table and refill. When Ursus finally does take a sip of ale, he says it’s the best ale he’s ever had, which takes their drunk monk by surprise and makes him feel a little hurt. Upon completing his drink, the vessel was refilled and grew in size. Ursus, realizing somewhat that the party wanted to leave but was compelled to stay, lifts the giant stein glass and attempts to carry it back with him towards the exit. Which doesn’t work, and a now flustered party is doing anything and everything to get one half of the Slash Brothers back to his right mind. Finally, the shifter gets his wits about him and resists the urge to keep this glass.

As they venture further, they find themselves in a room made of obsidian. There is a table set for one with a book placed on top of it. As Valen goes to investigate the book and gets closer, the book flutters open with a breeze that came from nowhere. The group hears a raspy voice that begins to speak to them incorporeally. A riddle that left the group stumped for some time. They start trying to read the book and investigate it and its surroundings further, until Chantico begins to think about it more and realizes the answer is “skeletons.” As she says it out loud, the group starts to fight. After this fight, the voice reappears and begins to speak a new riddle to the group. Following the logic that this is all tied to necromancy, Valen says “zombie, probably,” which is the correct answer, and zombies then appear, triggering yet another fight. After successfully slaying the zombies, the group picks up on the notion that there are no other gimmicks other than answering the riddle, and the said creature appears for them to fight. With that information, they prepare for the voice’s riddle once again. While still in wildshape as a giant hyena with a flaming mohawk, Chantico realizes the answer, but also that the group wouldn’t be able to understand her. Hence, she takes some of the mess from the zombies to write out “wight,” to which Ursus replies, “A wight? What the fuck is that?” triggering the answer and the inevitable fight. They engage in another skirmish and emerge victorious. As they regain their bearings, the voice speaks to them once again. It’s Dona who says the answer, which is a “lich.” Upon her saying that, the doors to the room reappear, the book and table setting disappear, and the group realizes the trial is done, but they also question if the King in Yellow is a Lich. With some discussion, they begin to realize they need to rest, and they decide that this is the best course of action before proceeding further, as well as preparing for the unknown that’s yet to come.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Much like anyone’s first time in an unfamiliar space, there is a lot to take in and a lot of questions to ask. Some might do research and some prep beforehand, but not OUR party. Arguile will later regret this decision, but while he feels right at home in Nakoroa, the rest of the party are like fish out of water with no idea as to how to move about in this new ocean of sorts. There was a lot of answering questions, trying out unfamiliar modes of transportation, and realizing Arguile has multiple aliases, one of which is named Silas Nicks. Once the party made their way to their lodgings for their stay there, they laughed at Arguile’s expense as they continued to order anything they could fathom, which ended up being blue dragon meat. Eventually, they got a tailor, Elmira, who was an old acquaintance of Arguile’s who knew his identity and helped them get out of clothes that otherwise made them look like they were “ren-faire cosplayers”. Afterwards, everyone shy of Zechs Glad and Salix, decided to go out and experience the city firsthand. While those three (and Duo) stayed behind for some drinks by the poolside, the boys… Galahad, The Turk, Shanks, and Arguile went to a club and had quite a good time as well. While some fun was certainly had, there were also several heart-to-heart conversations about their goals, the city itself, and how Arguile was feeling. We end the session with Arguile sobering himself up and making his way to meet the owner of this particular establishment, Mira, who seems to be an old colleague of sorts.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We begin with the group's departure to Iwi, where they reunite with their former allies and friends, Cereius, Attros, and a figure named Doctor Honeydew. The reunion is bittersweet as it doesn’t leave much time for the group to reconnect, and they notice the varying changes to the group… Cereius’ Puppet Master ring has taken a new form, Attros’ Mercurial Rod is now his shield/sword, and a blue Tressym that the group is informed is We'Ahqa. With quick pleasantries exchanged, the group known as the Mercurial Avengers, now reunited with Rig and Greyleaf, head off to continue their quests.

We go back to last night with the heist, with Arguile running away from the party, trying his best to fight the curse of Lycanthropy that has been placed upon him, with Greyleaf, Duo, and Shanks on his tail. Meanwhile, back at Mr. Edge’s home, with the crowd and city guard now gathered, the group, mostly Zechs and Galahad, tried to reassure the guards that they were doing a service and put a large chunk of the cult to rest permanently. Back to the chase, Shanks and Greyleaf eventually catch up to a partially transformed Arguile and manage to calm him down, essentially exhausting him into a state that is less harmful to himself and those around him. Though it wasn’t easy and got hairy, they are relieved and make plans for what to do with their half-transformed companion. With brief communication from the group and provisions provided via Duo, the three rogues make camp for the night.

In the morning, Arguile comes to and, with the help of the other rogues, pieces together his eventful evening. Before Shanks can remove the manacles from him, Arguile proceeds to hand them to him and mentions that they’ll have to get him new shoes to replace the ones his bestial form destroyed the previous night. The group reconnects, and after Glad removes the curse from Arguile, they begin to make preparations for their journey. They have informed the crew of the Swift Hummingbird of their departure as well as Zechs & Greyleaf’s families. The only thing left is to meet up with Rig, who will be their ride for this trip across the planes. We end where we started, friends and allies briefly reunited, and Collateral looking towards Nakoroa, Iwi, with wonder and hopes to find Arguile’s mother.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During the festival, the party enjoys exhibition matches, with Galahad narrowly defeating General Tharia in a dramatic fight, earning mutual respect. Revelry follows, with impressive drinking feats from Shanks, Galahad, and Zechs—who surprises everyone by outdrinking them all. Later, Shanks and Greyleaf discuss Rig and the gods’ manipulation of mortals, especially regarding Glad and her conflict with her patron. Meanwhile, Galahad learns the deeper history of his ancestors' departure from Sloane. The party leaves the Range and heads to Nymora, where Zechs reveals to the group that he suspects he’s not the only child imbued with Malar’s essence. He requests Greyleaf’s help to deal with Alma, whom he encountered at Salix’s hermitage and believes must be stopped before others suffer as he did.

As the group arrives in Nymora, they split off for various errands—Shanks and Greyleaf visit Potions and Lotions and have a meaningful conversation with Rig, while Zechs informs his parents he won’t be staying with them. At their inn, Hoshino utilizes the Magnificent Mansion to create a luxurious shared space, providing the group with a comfortable place to plan their next moves. Hoshino visits his devastated hometown of Yahnkoshi via Dimension Door and retrieves a sample of Eldertwine, sparking a discussion on how to stop the plague. The party shares magical resources, discusses battle strategy, and begins preparations to extract Malar from Zechs. As tensions rise and stakes grow heavier, they find strength in one another, each conversation and step deepening their resolve for the challenges ahead.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 25, “The Darkness Within”.

How will the rest of this story unfold?

Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse 

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III 

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We open up with the party, resting a bit, and going through their new loot. Ursus gets Thorak’s thoughts on his new crown to the group. With rest had, the group continues their dungeon crawl and encounters two cave trolls as Ursus kicks down a door, and Thorak launches two spider legs, like javelins, at one of them, dealing a good bit of damage. The fight ensues with the party as the victors and the trolls as charred remains. The group takes a second to catch their breath. There is a brief discussion about which door to continue through, and Dona informs the party of the direction that her Primeval Awareness has pointed them toward, as Bob gets an urge to pull the lever in the room. Unbeknownst to the group, Bob initially informs them that he is hearing a voice urging him to pull the lever with the unknown function.

The group inquires about the sources of these voices and any other information they can gather from Bob regarding them. As this is happening, he continues to walk closer to the lever and tells the party that he really would like to pull this lever. Through slightly tense and more awkward negotiations with Bob, Valen convinces him to back away, but only agrees to Bob’s terms of Ursus carrying Bob out of the room, much to Ursus’s displeasure. As Ursus carries Bob out the door, Thorak tells Valen that he'll throw a “javelin” at the lever. Upon a hit, they’ll run like hell to the other side of the room, towards what they presume is safety. Thorak’s attempt fails, but Valen decides that they both have the speed to pull the lever with a long enough rope and get to safety if needed. With the lever pulled, they hear a short, electrical burst-like sound and see nothing happen. With curiosity satisfied, they proceed west in the direction that Dona pointed them toward.

The group comes upon a door that Valen has some difficulty lockpicking. As the group is stealthy, thanks to Pass Without Trace from Dona, they remain cautious of the cloakers in the area, preferring not to engage with them. As the cloaks fly away from the leading group towards Thorak, Thorak uses Thaumaturgy to open the door that Chantico and Valen were opening, unfortunately springing an acid trap in the process. As the two take damage and the group proceeds through the doorway, another group of cloakers frightens a number of the party members, and yet another battle takes place, bathed in the Daylight spell from Chan’s staff. While the party is victorious, they have taken some damage and are getting low on resources. As we close, the party is deciding if they wish to take the hides of the cloakers as materials, which Thorak does, and they use this chance to gather their thoughts and rest yet again before venturing further into the dungeon.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party reconvenes outside Mr. Edge’s home, diving into an unusually intense level of planning. Split into two groups—Team Stealth (Shanks, Arguile, Salix) and Team Dragon (Galahad, Zechs, The Turk, Glad)—they prepare for a high-stakes infiltration, with Greyleaf and familiars keeping watch above. Initial observations suggest someone may have beaten them to the punch, prompting a cautious regroup. Arguile and Shanks are sent in for closer reconnaissance. After deciding to implement a version of the "Silent Knight" plan—having Galahad lead while invisible—they prepare to strike. A well-timed Prestidigitation from The Turk sets the stage for the ambush.

The first werecreature is dispatched in a brutal display, with Arguile delivering the killing blow to the second. As chaos erupts, Glad casts Bless, Zechs unleashes a barrage of arrows, and the team fights against a growing number of lycanthropic enemies. Shanks and Galahad even fight side by side before Shanks pins a foe, allowing Arguile to finish it off. More enemies pour in from above, forcing the team to abandon stealth entirely. Galahad uses his Conquering Presence to frighten most attackers, while Glad’s Magic Missile and Zechs’ Jack of All Trades provide ranged support. Outside, Duo informs Zechs that a curious crowd of Tabaxi is forming, adding to the public attention an already chaotic scene.

Despite several close calls, everyone bitten resists the curse—until Arguile fails his save and flees the house in a panic, already succumbing to lycanthropy. Zechs orders Duo to follow him, while the rest of the team clears the upper floors. Glad and Zechs take down the remaining enemies with coordinated attacks, and Salix confirms the area is secure. A Detect Magic spell reveals their target is above, and after some searching, they find Mr. Edge holding a Necklace of Fireballs. The item explodes, taking out Edge but sparing the party. As the dust settles, the group finds their reward, contemplates their exit, and wonders what will become of their now-cursed ally, Arguile.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zechs regains consciousness following his intense battles with Malar and Enich, slipping into a vivid dream that revisits the night of his childhood sacrifice. This time, the memory is clearer: he remembers around two dozen other young tabaxi present and a once-unidentifiable cloaked figure now unmistakably revealed to be The Constable. With yellow eyes, pale skin, silver-gray hair, and dragon-like scales on his face, The Constable addresses Zechs as "Quill," claiming his actions stem not from malice but destiny. He tells Quill he holds the power to be either salvation or punishment and reassures him that he’s done nothing wrong. When a younger Quill asks why he’s punishing people, The Constable cryptically explains that they were judged and found wanting. The dream ends as the figure activates a pocket watch, light flooding the scene—just as Zechs jolts awake.

Waking in his childhood room, Zechs takes a moment to ground himself, checking for any lingering traces of Malar and mentally updating Duo. He’s physically weakened but relieved. After a moment of quiet reflection and guilt over releasing an aspect of Malar, he joins the others and catches up on what transpired during his unconscious state. The group updates him on events, including running into Little G’s and naming Turk “The Turk,” and confirms he’s only been out for a day. Zechs is surprised to find Iqra still present, and his mother welcomes him back with a powerful embrace. Iqra shares her gathered intel before departing, prompting the party to shift focus toward their next steps.

Zechs requests that Greyleaf help him recall what little he can about the other missing children and inform the proper parties as the group decides their next destination: Iwi, as Galahad needs time to prepare to confront his father, the titan, and Antonius in Granzia. They plan to relieve Three Edge—the tabaxi previously visited by “Mr. Scotch” and “Mr. Bonnet”—but first need to speak with Mr. Brave. After learning quite a deal from Mr. Brave about Three Edge, the party leaves coins with a barkeep to keep his cup full and heads to Nymora’s gated Farwell Grove. With some gold and light persuasion, the guards inform them where to find their new, unexpected benefactor and promise to look the other way. After sharing a laugh about a brothel incident, the group sets off, eyes on the prize, building their strategy for what promises to be a significant score.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the fights, Zechs collapses from exhaustion; he’s not in harm's way, but shows no signs of waking up. Before leaving the site, Galahad displays a sign ensuring that no more sacrifices will happen here, as per the vow of the Champion of Bahamut. The group takes Zechs to his parents’ place so he can rest and wake up in a familiar setting with his parents watching him. The night is young, and after a night like they had, revelry is long overdue. With that, they head out to the Faint Mandolin and enjoy the many drinks the establishment provides, some mood enhancers courtesy of Salix, and the melodic sounds of their new ally, Turk. What is now par for the course for the party, the drinks keep coming, a deep conversation is had, and they run into a familiar face at their next venue, The Jaded Kitty Kat. A wide grin and enthusiastic voice greet the party as Little G is in town and doing some celebrating of his own. The group updates Turk on how they know their associate, Little G dubs Turk, THE Turk, which gets a welcome response. Towards the end of the evening, Greyleaf and The Turk discuss their origins, fondness for magic, and Greyleaf’s family before heading back to Zechs’ parents’ place for the night. The following day, in Rinde and Setti’s home, the party is joined by a familiar face: Iqra of the Cloak of Feathers. 

She gives news that she is a messenger for JM as they are otherwise held up, but offers to answer any questions they have. There is an exchange as The Turk works out which JM they’re referring to as he realizes that the JM he knew was Mr. Bell, and the JM who sent them was the one who last spoke to the party, presenting as a woman. She tells the party to let Zechs know that Argo is safe and recovering in Nereas, that Cenari received word from the Circle of Friends that is looking into a group known as the Light of Elrin in Luxenborough, and that one of their party members has received the boon from the Daughter of the Flame. Iqra informs Arguile that an army of fiends has overtaken Ors Themar for the first time in history and is making their way toward Nakoroa. Additionally, the Masterful Gains Guild in Gamsby is trying to stop a splinter group known as the Umbral Viel that is trying to disrupt the weave throughout the city. At the same time, some operatives were dispatched from the guild to stop them. None have reported back in and have since gone missing. They say that if Mechfall loses its arcane power, it’s the same as putting a lit match next to a powder keg. Upon asking about The Constable and any of his Generals, Galahad is told that The Executioner has also been mentioned as pulling her punches. It’s not information they saw firsthand, but they were informed of it. Iqra informs Arguile that Enich is not his only alternate and to beware of the one carrying a rifle with him. We end with some details regarding the Pincushion Maker and the calamities of Sloane.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With negotiations between the spiders and Thorak going out of the window, the party begins taking on the spiders they tried to spare. Everyone is doing incredibly well and working together as if they were well-oiled machines, but the standouts were Chantico, who used Wall of Fire, and Thorak, who used his incredible strength. At the end, some of the party is covered in spider remains, some are dusting off the char marks on themselves. They gather what they can and decide to rest before traversing further into the dungeon. While on their short rest, they notice a substantial horde that the spiders are holding, which the party takes into their inventory. 

Upon entering the next room, the party sees bones and remnants of creatures like Ropers and Bullettes that may have gone through there. A bit further ahead, they come across an oddly placed puppet show. The group is tasked by the “King” puppet to correctly identify the puppets and dispatch the hag, saying, “The REAL cleric ALWAYS tells the truth, the soldier ALWAYS lies, and the hag either tells the truth or lies.” After deliberation and a few attempts at discerning the truth through a line of questioning, they guess poorly and are thrown into another fight, this time against the king and the rest of the puppets. Upon finishing the battle, the group gathers what they can, takes stock, and figures out their next moves.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The battle had commenced for both teams… Maybe it was a sign of fortune, divinity, or whatever you may wish to think, but the team worked together, dealing heavy damage to Malar and Enich. Galahad shows the divine wrath of Bahamut when Malar goes after Zechs and deals an impressive blow. Turk more than shows his abilities in spades, as he uses his form of dread to inflict fear on the god of the Wild Hunt. After which Zechs deals some up close and personal shots at Malar, imbued with a touch of divine energy. Enich needed to heal himself immediately after Shanks’ first volley of arrows. Salix uses Juniper’s Bloom to cast Gravity Fissure on Enich, which he manages to avoid the brunt of, but with his back pressed against the wall, it's time to start taking them more seriously. Glad uses her divine magic to cast Bless on the group within Zechs’ mind. Malar begins to cast Fire Storm when Turk counterspells the god, keeping his new team safe and out of harm’s way. Back outside, Enich summons shadows that keep the team at bay, and they regroup. Malar summons wolves to even the playing field, which are taken care of almost immediately before a sinister laugh comes from him, and he summons even more of them.

Enich uses his Dread Lord ability to begin shifting the tides. With that, the group hesitates to approach as per Galahad’s earlier warning, and Enich starts shouting about how cowardly they all are. Galahad puts Kana’s Fury into Malar’s chest, twists it, and says, “Didn’t I tell you I was going to wear you?” Malar chuckles before fading, and the group wakes up to see a battle only a few feet away. Enich approaches Salix with his Flame Tongue Longsword and strikes them down. Turk casts Heat Metal on Enich’s armor as a tactical move to make any further attacks toward the group at a disadvantage. Enich turns to Turk, points his sword at him, and casts Blight. Even with the combined efforts of the entire group, Enich is giving them a challenging time. Having already donned sturdy armor, the combination of the Shield spell makes it seem impossible to hit him. Greyleaf takes Salix and backs them away from the ensuing fight. Glad heals Salix and picks them back up before casting Magic Missle towards Enich. Arioch's paladin is up, but he’s on the defensive. Zechs drops the Hunter’s Mark, whom he put on Enich upon entering the fight, and instead summons “Wolfy,” his Beastial Spirit, to assist Galahad as best as it can in this battle of the paladins.

As we approach the end of the fight, Shanks can get a shot off with his purple-worm-tipped arrow, dealing a heavy blow to Enich. Salix, now back up, uses Call Lightning to affect Enich is area, but Galahad and Wolfy get caught in the spell. Thankfully, they manage to survive and deal another blow to Enich, who isn’t going down without a fight. Greyleaf manages to attack Enich with his Onyx Blade. Enrich casts Destructive Wave as he strikes the ground, and a wave of thunder and necrotic energy hits nearly everyone. Galahad attacks Enich, slashing him across his chest, taking the back end of the sword, and hitting him in the side of the head. Enich exchanges a few words with Galahad before going unconscious. Glad uses Sacred Flame to finish the job, and Enich goes to the afterlife.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The group meets back up, some still in their Tabaxi guise, but pauses conversing to check if anyone is following the group. A quick check confirms that there was someone, but they are no longer there when Shanks investigates. They are relieved to arrive at the inn and see that the Magnificent Mansion is still there. One of the servants relays a message from Hoshino to the group, apologizing for his abrupt departure but assuring them he will be back and offering endearment to them all. As the message ends, they pick up on a new figure waiting for them to notice his presence. A halfling fellow by the name of Turk introduces himself, and after a round of introductions and clearing any suspicion of him, he tells the group that he was sent here to help the group however he can.

Before they can figure out just how effectively they can use JM’s most recent addition to the Collateral team, the group exchanges the information that they gathered from what Zechs and the others saw in the past, the information Shanks and Greyleaf squeezed out of their target, and the name Enich, whom Galahad reveals as Arguile’s alternate and a paladin of Arioch. The group then began to form a plan for a while. However, with Zechs still uneasy about unleashing his aspect of Malar onto the planes and feeling like they're getting played somehow, it took some time before the group reached a consensus. Zechs, with, of course, Duo, along with Galahad, Turk, and Glad, would assist Zechs, while Arguile, Shanks, Greyleaf, and Salix keep an eye on things outside with Enich and any of the Paw members potentially interfering with the ritual.

As they make their way to the ritual site, the scent of blood is in the air, and fire is ablaze in the distance. The group can faintly make out bodies missing their skin. There is a brief exchange that is somewhere between tense and uncomfortable. Enrich confirms that the dead Tabaxi are the idiots from the lodge that Galahad got piss drunk, and also tells Zechs that the only reason this is happening is that he is divine punishment for this plane, at least partially. With niceties out of the way, the group splits into the ones who will help Zechs expel Malar and the others who are to keep watch on the paladin of Arioch and Lieutenant of the Constable. The ritual begins, and Zechs and Malar have a final exchange before their fight to end things, one way or another. While on the outside, Enich expresses his boredom and begins approaching the waiting party, preparing to attack.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up...

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The group heads towards the Dispatch Service and meets with Cevari again, who greets them before leading them towards Faerith. They meet the high-elf dispatch manager, taking in the minimalist design before asking their questions about where the book has been shipped from and possibly information about who has been sending it. While they can’t get much of the privileged client information, they learn that 35 books have been shipped, primarily from Balazaar. After receiving what information they can, they head out and explore other options. Dona uses her ranger ability, Primeval Awareness. She senses many aberrations in 3 locations within a mile of her, two of which are in the inner ring and one in the outer ring. The group decides to head towards the two within the city. As they approach, Dona gets the sense that the pings she receives are underground. They end up at the Nostalgic Sea, a tavern and inn with a nautical theme, and decide to scope it out and see how best to get underground and find the source of these pings.

The group has food and drinks while getting a feel for the area. Thorak sends Paco out to search the tavern. Using Beast Sense, they discover a trap door just past the kitchen. While exploring that area, they find strange markings in the foundation stone. With this information, the party plans to reach the place where Paco found sneakily. Thanks to Bob’s curious nature, the party discovers the passageway and begins traversing the darkened pathway that Chantico thankfully illuminates. Arriving at the end of the passageway, Dona helps track the aberration ping she had earlier. She relays to the group that the area has several varied presences. Chantico asks how the group typically deals with these occasions, to which Valen explains they take whatever is ahead of them. She tells them that they’ll continue due south. The team eventually arrives at a stuck door, initially giving the Slash Brothers some trouble, but they ultimately clear the path for the group to continue.

Upon entering the room, Thorak notices giant spiders in various areas. Thorak suggests he speak with them and perhaps reach a more diplomatic approach, which gets mixed responses from the group. Thorak casts Speak with Animals and tells Chantico that if they attempt to eat him, he will rage, and she is to burn the place to the ground immediately, and he’ll be okay. Negotiations go south almost immediately as the spiders whisper amongst themselves about “The King,” and maybe they brought friends, and with that, Thorak rages and tells Chantico to “light this motherfucker up!”

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Malar's avatar calling for the start of the Wild Hunt, the currently awestruck party sneakily breaks away from the cultists and decides to follow closely but stealthily to figure out how to stop Malar. Upon re-entering Nymora, it is a scene of pure chaos; the group sees the avatars of Nianke, Nireana, and Xidea come into corporeal form to stand against the avatar of Malar while the avatars of Aphy, Tumra, and Gosyn see to the aid of the citizens. The battle is intense and happens quickly, with Xidea delivering the death blow to Malar. With the scene dissolving, the goddess Aphy appears before the group, looking towards Zechs, and asks if they understand. The lesson was that TOGETHER, the group may overcome this next endeavor, but while this would extract Malar, this would not destroy the aspect of him residing in Zechs, nor do they have a way to contain it. This causes apparent conflict within Zechs as he doesn’t wish to let this aspect of Malar upon the planes and worries that this would only add to the other aspects already out there. Aphy explains to Zechs what he must do, including interrupting the ritual this evening at the site of his sacrifice. She does what she can to quell his concern and urges that he must try to focus on what he can do right now, as it’s not on him to try to stop Malar entirely, as that is a task that he can not do right now due to time and resources, amongst other things.

In the present, Hoshino is on his clandestine mission to track down Five Shadow. He finds Five Shadow at his place of work while under the ruse that he also works for the Cult as an auditor of sorts. This gamble pays off, as he successfully casts Charm Person and can begin to squeeze him for every bit of information he can on the Bloody Paw and their current dealings. Hoshino receives information on tonight's ritual, its importance, and the notable members who will attend it. Upon leaving, Hoshino meets up with Greyleaf and Shanks, who have just finished their mission, as Shanks receives word from Zechs that they’re awake. There is an exchange to determine where to meet to exchange all the information they’ve all gathered. Greyleaf reminds Shanks to let Zechs and the crew know that they may encounter some guards down in the Vineyard, but not to be alarmed, as they were there to keep watch. As the group reconnects, Hoshino informs Zechs that he cannot help him with the Malar extraction. Still, he has the opportunity to make a massive difference in their efforts to thwart the Constable's plans. There is a heavy conversation as the allies turned friends go their separate ways, but they know it’s not goodbye; it’s until next time, leaving each other a token of their friendship and something to keep their spirits high when times seem rough.

We pan over to Galahad, who makes his way to the “hunting club” to meet Hushed Coil under the guise of Silent Knight. He gives the guise of someone who wants to join “the cause,” and Hushed Coil is all too excited to divulge information and get this recruit. Galahad learns that most people there are waiting for tonight’s main event. Galahad ensures that these guys don’t make it to tonight’s ritual, but doesn’t kill them. Instead, he gets them so incredibly drunk that they essentially can’t function. With one final act of raucous behavior, Galahad bashes through the door, vanishes into the night, and starts to make his way to rejoin the group.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We return to a tense scene as Arguile, Glad, Salix, and Zechs attempt to deceive the cultists as they nervously try to figure out their next steps. While their deception works, the cultists still find themselves drawn to Zechs, for reasons they can't quite put their finger on. Eventually, they are asked to join and watch the cult perform a ritual. There's a lot of chanting, a familiar dagger, and a body that goes into the fire and begins transforming… It's an unsettling scene, and one that sends a chill down the spines of the group. Before them is the avatar of Malar. With Hoshino’s spell underway, the group separates to do what is needed while Zechs and the others do what they must do. Shanks and Greyleaf head off briefly to see The Royal Vagabonds, Greyleaf’s old crew from when he was still Kyver, and get more intel on their target. Their target has a unique taste, and the rogues know how to use it.

Meanwhile, Hoshino comes upon a very familiar tavern and meets Heely Hands and Kalkari, while waiting to see JM… or in this case, Mr. Bell. Mr. Bell talks plainly with Hoshino, telling him that in all his time, and across the many realities, he’s never come across Hoshino Matsuo, bard of 100 towns. He is an anomaly or a wild card in a deck of wild cards, and wants to use it to their advantage to stop the Constable. A crazy plan, but if it works, it can change EVERYTHING and start to set things right, or at the very least give their situation a fighting chance. Mr. Bell knows the party may not agree, so he only wants to bring Hoshino along if he thinks the party will agree. Shanks and Greyleaf head off to the Velvet Fang, stealthily observing the venue and awaiting a visual of their target. After some time, they get eyes on their prize and tail him upstairs to where he is in a rather precarious situation, but not unusual for a customer of this fine establishment. The rogues check their surroundings, wait for the right timing, and follow their plan. Shanks uses his Blink Dog Dagger to get across the room and cover the man’s mouth before he can call out for help. Greyleaf gives his companion some gold, and she tells him that while she won’t get in their way, she can only assure them a few minutes before things get out of her hands. More than enough time for Mr. Scotch and Mr Bonnet, who interrogate their target for information regarding the cult, its members, its doings, and anything else helpful and of note. They leave without much fuss and slip back into the bustling city of Nymora. We finish with the 4 in the past; as Malar's avatar says, “Let the wild hunt begin.”

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arguile, Glad, Salix, and Zechs find themselves inexplicably transported to the distant past, landing in Sloane’s Second Age rather than the Nymora of their time. Struggling to understand their predicament, they attempt to gather information discreetly, but Zechs inadvertently reveals their origins. This earns him a referral to the priestess of Nireana and ultimately to the priestess of Tumra, where he becomes visibly disturbed by the revelations he receives. Meanwhile, in the present, the rest of the party watches their companions in a catatonic state, their eyes glazed over. Shanks and Galahad attempt to discern the cause, only to hear a voice declaring, “These are the tithes that must be paid.” The goddess Aphy reassures them that their friends are safe and urges them to aid them from their side. They resolve to investigate the leadership that enabled Nymora’s suffering, instructing Greyleaf to seek his mother’s connections. Before parting, Hoshino performs an act of kindness, reuniting a lost child with their family, a rare moment of light in a place marred by pain.

In the past, the group consulted the priestess of Tumra, who informed them that this journey was a lesson for Zechs and all of them. When Salix inquires if the lesson is forgiveness, they are corrected—the actual lesson is acceptance and closure; they hear from an absent but familiar voice. As they explore the city, they sense the rising tension of the approaching conflict between the Panteran Pantheon and Malar. They hear of erratic wildlife and growing fear of Malar’s influence, suspecting an impending disaster. Zechs theorizes that a site of his future sacrifices may already exist and be occupied by Malar and his followers. The group stealthily investigates, finding a massive bonfire surrounded by many figures. In the present, Greyleaf’s mother welcomes him and his friends, sharing a moment of reunion before shifting to the serious matter. After a short prayer, she bluntly acknowledges their foes, providing a wealth of names while advising caution. The party learns of her formidable past and her service during the arrival of the Vitalis family. With their newfound intelligence, they form teams—Shanks and Greyleaf, Hoshino, and Galahad—each tasked with specific roles. With Hoshino’s Seeming spell altering their appearances, they set forth, ready to confront the forces that have plagued Nymora for generations.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the party processes Greyleaf’s return and shared revelations, Galahad speaks privately with Bothok, learning that his father, in league with Arioch, is trying to resurrect a titan. Galahad resolves to act before their plan unfolds. Meanwhile, Shanks trains in the Underdark with Dreg, facing a deadly purple worm and confronting his fragmented self-worth. These moments prove deeply enlightening for him. Back above, the party gathers once more as Galahad announces his official status as Bahamut’s Champion and encourages Zechs to resolve his lingering Malar connection. Zechs begins his paladin journey with the Dawnstalkers, eventually choosing the Packwarden Oath after guidance from Galahad and Siaxa. Meanwhile, Shanks returns from his training scarred but successful, and Arguile discreetly arranges a meeting with Rig to secure passage to Iwi to rescue his mother. The Rig they meet is not the same as before, suggesting alternate realities may be in play.

Back at camp, the group discusses logistics, poisons extracted from the purple worm, and upcoming plans. Galahad is approached by a Goliath woman from the Gothakanaki clan, leading to an invitation to visit the Barrier Range and meet more of his kin. As Zechs gifts the group communication items, he opens up about his own internal struggles and seeks training support. Arguile, having confided in Shanks, eventually shares his plan with the entire group: a route that takes them to the Barrier Range, back to Nymora to extract Malar from Zechs, onward to Iwi to rescue his mother, and finally to stop Galahad’s father and the titan he commands. The group agrees, now unified and emotionally fortified, stepping forward with clear intent, personal stakes, and the ever-growing weight of destiny on their shoulders.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 24, “ Where You Come From”. How will the rest of this story unfold?

Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The group’s moment of rest was just that, as an explosion was heard and fire erupted in the Witty Glaive. The varying members of the party are trying to assess the situation, wake up the other party members, and do what they can to stop it when they come across some otherworldly beings that are the very culprits of the fire. As the group begins to fight off these creatures, which are pointed out to be similar to Bob’s tentacle, Elizabeth is not a result of Bob’s doing. They also find aid in a new face who has been quietly observing the group the last few days, a Unillum wildfire druid named Chantico with a wildfire spirit named Enya. With the help of this new ally and a concerted team effort, the team can stop the fires and the creatures that attacked their new home. During the aftermath of the battle, the group assesses the damage to the Glaive and introduces themselves properly to their new friend. Valen briefly mentions a strange dream about many whispers, a crown and robes made of yellow, and a throne of stone, which is unfamiliar to everyone except for Chantico. A brief discussion was had, and it was decided that it would probably be best to talk more after a proper long rest. Hebron comes to the Glaive, sees the state of things, and is in shock and panic as the group explains what happened the previous night.

Chantico explains that she was sent by the Arbitor, Amina, to look into the strange, otherworldly occurrences happening throughout Sloane. During the discussion, the group clarified that the child they saved at the marketplace was Amina, and the one Valen took with him through the soft spot was Soris, which was information the group was previously unaware of as there was no mention of the child’s name. The group scavenges what they can of drinks and such and discusses the plans for the day, as they still have a meeting with the Dispatch Service and would like to check back in with Izca. The first stop is with Captain Dan to check in on Izca, who informs the group she has not yet woken up but will inform the group when she does. They also informed Captain Dan about the previous night's incident at the Glaive so that it would be on his radar. Valen asks to see Izca again to cast Detect Thoughts and see if he still hears voices emanating from Izca, which he confirms that he does, but it is not nearly as prominent as last time. With that, they head out to the Dispatch Service.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At this point, it’s normal for this group; shenanigans are how we start the next part of the story. Arguile gives in and has some hot sauce and fire whiskey, which do not sit well with our tiefling friend. A weary Zechs approaches Hoshino and Galahad sometime after the fun wraps up. What seems to be a regular part of their playbook at this point, Zechs asks if they’d humor his seemingly insane idea… actively speaking to Malar. To his surprise, while they clarify how that can go wrong, they agree with him. They both agree that maybe talking to him directly would give him some answers, that final piece of the puzzle he has been searching for. A plan is set to have Galahad, Hoshino, and Glad in a room with Zechs sans Duo to ensure the party's safety. Everyone is informed of what is to transpire, and while also reluctant, they agree that it may be best for what’s to come. The conversation with Malar isn’t much of a conversation at all. Zechs feels like he’s missing something, asking the wrong questions, or Malar wishes to continue toying with him. Eventually, after a tense exchange, Zechs concludes that he’s satisfied with the information he got and severs the connection to Malar. Galahad and Hoshino both agree that Malar may not have said much. Still, it confirmed Zechs’ suspicion that Malar would be challenging in his desire to reveal the truths of his origin, connection to the Constable, or his ties to the Pantheran Pantheon.

With that door and avenue closed, the group departs towards the vineyard, pursuing what Zechs needs to begin this ritual. There is some confusion between going to the vineyard, heading towards the site of Zechs’ sacrifice, and returning to the vineyard. It’s not a fruitless endeavor, as now knowing the location and recalling some information about his sacrifice is information that the group feels was needed anyway. Upon speaking to Greyleaf, the group begins to clarify some details and realizes that the vineyard was where they should have headed initially. On their trek, Zechs expresses his frustration with what he is missing and piecing this puzzle together. As they traverse through a bit deeper than Zechs’ first time down there, they find giant effigies of Aphy, the goddess of trickery and wit, depicted as a cougar, Xidea, the goddess of death, shown as a black panther, and Tumra, the goddess of the spirit world, portrayed as a snow leopard. We conclude with Zechs sending Duo now with darkvision to investigate the statues of the goddesses. After the Greyleaf’s suggestion, Zechs attempts to reach out and speak to the goddesses, uncertain if it would even work, and a booming voice says, “The proper tithes must be observed.”

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We return to the group on their way back to Nymora. Zechs helps Shanks out with his stealth and uses the Hunter’s Mark spell. Later, Zechs and Greyleaf discuss what they should do with Zechs’ need for vengeance regarding Alma. Greyleaf offers his insight and empathy, which Zechs accepts, but lets him know that it may take some time before it is entirely received. Hoshino raises the idea of doing Legend Lore on Zechs’ bow, and Zechs assures the bard he is grateful for the answers he received. While he has more questions, he certainly answered more questions than not about his mysterious bow. Shanks also asks to have his bow, Mind’s Eye, looked at via the Legend Lord spell. Eventually, the team arrives in Nymora; they split to do different errands and decide to regroup at the inn where they’ll be staying. Shanks and Greyleaf go to Potions and Lotions, and Shanks has a very needed discussion with Rig; Zechs is off to inform his parents that he’s back in town but won’t be staying at their place, however, and the rest of the group goes to get their singular room to share. Thanks to Hoshino, that space won’t be too cramped with the help of Magnificent Mansion, and the group is thoroughly surprised and grateful for what the space provides. Their stomachs are full, their rooms are tailor-made to each of them, and there are many attendants to ensure their stay is as carefree as possible. A necessary sanctuary and place to devise their plans for what comes next as they attempt to extract a god from their companion.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the tenth episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Law (Zechs), and Jaime (d20dinner) discuss and come up with the lore surrounding the city of Nereas. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the western coast of Granzia.

VO: Lawrence Bentiné Jr, Jaime of d20dinner, and Thomas Lapierre III

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Captain Dan runs off to find a healer as the group attempts to alleviate Izca's suffering. As this happens, Bob mentions that he heard about the book and that it can alter a person upon reading it. This is likely what occurred to Izca. The boys decide to go back to the crime scene to search for clues while Dona stays to watch Izca and keep an eye out for the healer. Finding one needle in a thousand haystacks is more manageable, but they go forth. They do, however, see a crescent moon pendant belonging to Izca, the crumbled remains of the book, and a receipt, which they surmise can be used to track the book's point of origin. All of these are shots in the dark, but for now, it’s better than doing nothing. Upon returning to the station, Captain Dan introduces the group to Norkin Softdream, who is doing what he can for Izca. After introductions, he very bluntly asks the group what is happening with her. In giving their best explanation, Norkin replies that he will try to do what he can, but it seems a little out of his depth even for him. With sweat dripping from his brow and a few attempts, he can finally stabilize and slowly reverse some of the effects currently ailing Izca. It may take some more time, but that’s the best he can do now.

The group calls it a night at near dawn and heads back to the Witty Glaive for a meal, a drink, and some much-needed rest. During their discussions of what to do next, Hebron informs them that if they want to see how something was imported into Tradeshore, their best bet is to start looking at the Golden Tower District and, quite possibly, The Dispatch Service. It’s decided that after rest, they’ll split up into two teams and try to locate the book's point of origin: Bob with Valen and Thorak with Ursus. Eventually, the Slash Brothers team proves fruitful, and they have a meeting with Faerith for the next day at The Dispatch Service, thanks to the help of receptionist Sevari. With that, they head back to the Glaive and discuss some lighter topics, such as Valen’s time before the party and meeting his teacher, Thorak’s time with the orphanage where he was raised, plus the secret of his rage. A brief moment of levity and rest before it inevitably picks back up again. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze!

Theme Music "Sunk Cost Fallacy" is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The group, now back on board the Swift Hummingbird, discussed heading to Yahnkoshi so Hoshino could visit his home, investigate the reappearance of Eldertwine, and see what the town is like all these ages later. Galahad wonders if he could come with him so he is not alone. Still, Hoshino tells him that while Galahad is immune to diseases, this disease is magical, and he does not want to risk his health if he isn’t immune to this particular disease. After expending all ideas, suggestions, and everything in between, the ship hovers around 500ft above Yahnkoshi, and, using Dimension Door, Hoshino descends to the ground below. The scene is grim, to say the least. As he searches throughout the town, he sees the bodies of Kenku from the Tell Tale Guild, which he is unaware of at the time, but the party confirms for him, once back onto the ship, that it is Attros’ former guild, and also finds a pendant of the Light of Elrin, which he grabs. Through his walk, we are taken back to Hoshino’s conversation with Pakia about Eldertwine and what has happened to Yahnkoshi since the age that saw Eldertwine as Sloane’s calamity. In that conversation, he tells Pakia that he knows what he must do, to which she responds with a puzzled look and tells him that he does not need to explain. She assures him that he has friends in the Range and that if he does return to his home, he should be careful.

Before returning to the ship, he takes a sample of Eldertwine and secures it on his person before using Dimension Door to return safely onto the ship. Upon sharing his findings, Shanks asks Arguile to use Mage Hand and hold the bottle away from him, and he melts wax to secure the sample bottle further. Shanks then asks Greyleaf if, with some help from possibly Salix, they could figure out just how to stop Eldertwine from ravaging Sloane once again. Greyleaf suggests that he can request the aid of someone he travels with who is likely better suited for such a task, and Shanks ensures the sample is given to him. We start to finish with the group going through the Bag of Holding’s inventory and exchanging the newly made scrolls amongst each other to copy or store for themselves. Zechs goes through his idea of new battle formations with Shanks and Galahad, which they agree upon and give further input to make the formation the most efficient. We finally end with Zechs and Shanks having a talk where Shanks shows off his new skills, and Zechs asks to compare their bows, Jack of All Trades and Mind’s Eye. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a night of revelry, drinking games, fights, and celebration, the team wakes up in various locations, some unsure of how they got there. They plan over breakfast as they gather and prepare for their next destination. Afterward, Galahad seeks out Pakia for answers to his questions about his ancestors, “Those Who Wandered,” and the side of the story he would not have heard unless he was there. She goes on to say that during a time of warfare, there was an Illithid incursion starting in the northern reaches of the Range and making its way towards Stargrave. After several defeats, tensions rose within the leadership and those close to it. Those who stayed saw these defeats as strategic and tactical errors on their part, not accounting for extenuating circumstances. While the group that left was under the impression that they were not using the proper amount of force, it was not a question of tactics but of drive and will to defeat these enemies. Eventually, they saw a branch of that chief’s family split off and leave. They went out into the Gathering Storm and never returned. Based on what Galahad said, they must have gotten to Granzia via a “soft spot,” which Sloane is known for. However, they often see you transported to another region of the plane, but instead, they were sent to another plane entirely. There was more that led up to that point, but that was the breaking point. However, their departure was seen as an action of stubbornness rather than malice, and Pakia mentions that she can’t fault them as they did what was right for their kin, which is what those who stayed were also trying to do.

The group then packs up their things, says their goodbyes, and makes the half-day trek back down the mountain to the Swift Hummingbird. Cordell confirms their next destination as Nymora, and the group is off just like that. As they travel, Zechs addresses the group about what the Stone Face told him and tells the group that while he knows that he and his alternates have had aspects of Malar put inside of him, he suspects that he’s not the ONLY child who that happened to. He also asks for Greyleaf’s help, as he might know more through their familiar “friend” Alma. Eventually, Zechs informs Greyleaf that he met her at Salix’s hermitage in league with the Constable. He asks Greyleaf plainly if he would like to assist in transitioning her to the afterlife because she needs to pay for what she did, and he wants to ensure nothing like what happened to them happens again. Zechs admits seeing Alma sent his heart pounding in his ears, and he had to do everything he could to satiate the bloodlust from seeping through him. Also, having Malar in his head, encouraging and taunting him, did not help that ordeal. The party notices how Zechs speaks about Alma; it’s almost like what he felt with Arbane back in Invenas, and tries to help prevent himself from feeding into Malar’s wishes. Zechs accepts what they say and hopes they acknowledge that this isn’t a simple black-and-white choice for him to make.

We conclude with Shanks asking Glad to help him with his hair when he approaches the topic of her patron, The Protector. He asks where she stands with him, and she tells him that she understands that, as a cleric of his, her power is linked to her faith, and while she does not like or respect the Protector currently, she still believes in him. Shanks does his best to make an analogy and paint a picture that the Protector isn’t without flaws or faults. She lets Shanks know she is aware of her predicament and moves cautiously and intently as they travel together. She also tells him she appreciates him reaching out to her, and they laugh.

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party's troubles begin as they breach the Siren’s Song shop, attempting stealth before chaos ensues. Valen's misstep on a creaky floorboard triggers magical darkness, and Thorak uses thaumaturgy to announce their presence. In the basement, lifeless bodies spring to life, emitting poison as they engage the group in battle. While the party fights efficiently, they face Izca, the shop’s owner, armed with deadly abilities and the "Death Lance." Izca wields a deadman’s switch, signaling her resolve not to surrender. Despite the challenges, Ursus, with Dona’s help, knocks Izca unconscious, hearing her ominous final words: “All hail, the King in Yellow.” With Izca in tow, the group flees, only to witness the shop collapse into a 40-foot crater following a pulse and shockwave. Guards intercept them, questioning the events. Ursus explains that the guards agree to take Izca into custody, suggesting the group visit her in the jail cells later. Izca is shackled, her belongings confiscated, and the party rushes to inform the guards of the dangerous crystal Valen saw in the basement before the implosion.

However, Izca offers no helpful information during interrogation; her demeanor is hostile and unyielding. ​​​​During the interrogation, Izca manipulates Thorak with the spell Suggestion to recover her amulet, prompting Valen to use Detect Thoughts and sense two conflicting voices in her mind—her own and another urging silence. Valen’s pointed questions provoke no clear answers, and Ursus fails to wrestle the amulet from her. Thorak surmises she may not be fully in control and presses her for details about a mysterious book, eventually removing the amulet for her safety. As Valen attempts to calm her, Bob notices her veins turning yellow and realizes something is trying to kill her. Izca begins seizing, but Thorak saves her with Spare the Dying, while Valen urgently requests a cleric from Captain Dan via guard Wayne. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze!

Theme Music "Sunk Cost Fallacy" is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up with the party’s exhibition matches. While the rogues had matches that went as expected, they were not without their moments of surprise from each of them. The fight that left everyone on the edge of their seats was between The Champion of Bahamut & The Gathakanathi General. While Galahad dominated the first part of this fight, putting all the combat experience he’s had thus far to use, Tharia managed to fight back and overwhelm the paladin. With the match approaching its end, Galahad summons the power of Kanna’s Fury and secures the win for himself. Respect and admiration are given to both warriors, and they acknowledge each other’s abilities in combat. Then, the celebrations continue as Galahad does an expected but impressive display of drinking. The group is all enjoying themselves and letting loose; one person in particular is Shanks, who we find performing a remarkable bit of drinking himself later. While not what Galahad displayed, it was close and caused the crowd to erupt again in celebration. As Shanks makes his rounds, somehow Zechs gets pulled into showing off his drinking prowess and does exceedingly well, to everyone’s surprise, except for the party. Zechs even manages to outdrink Galahad by a bit, which seems to put everyone, especially Galahad, in an uproar.

Not too much later, Shanks decides to check in with Greyleaf and have a hilarious exchange about whether Greyleaf reports back to Mr. Bell and Greyleaf offering a gold coin to Shanks if he can chug the pint glass in his hand. Shanks then asks if he could set up a meeting between him and Rig. Shanks informs him that he wants to give her an answer to a question she asked, but, unfortunately, was never able to provide it due to the circumstances at the time. He assures Greyleaf there is no reason to be concerned, and Greyleaf tells Shanks that he will relay the message but leave it up to Rig to decide what to do after that. A joke is eventually made about them likely having to carry Zechs or Galahad, and Greyleaf and Shanks inform him that he’s more concerned with Glad. He informs Greyleaf about the argument with her patron. Shanks worries about how that may affect her abilities from now on, and she has yet to speak to the group about it. Greyleaf speaks about the gods and their intentions but suggests that they like to play with them, mess with their emotions, and use them as pawns, sometimes with false faces. Shanks replies that a god doesn’t have to tell them who she is. Greyleaf suggests that she is less of a pawn and more of something the gods fear, which could be why they have messed with her the most. While Shanks doesn’t want to see her get caught in collateral damage, Greyleaf informs Shanks that they are more than their namesake suggests, and pawns hold more power on the chessboard than most people realize. Greyleaf will talk to Glad later, but now it’s time to sit back and relax. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In what seems to be par for the course with this group… We pick back up as the group enjoys some of Welby’s Special Blend from an Illathid skull. The group takes all the festivities in and absorbs as much of the culture as possible. Galahad is in his element, happy to walk through his ancestral home during this festive time. Arguile, Shanks, and Galahad signed up for some exhibition fights later that evening, but the rogues may have more ulterior motives than our Champion of Bahamut. Arguile and Shanks briefly discuss their “strategies” for their matches, while elsewhere, we find Zechs silently observing Galahad and doing his best to fight through what has been ailing him with some drink. The two discuss how Galahad feels about being here and what has been on his mind about upcoming events. The group is introduced to Tharia Stonekiller, the general, and there is some discussion about food, how they are enjoying the festivities, and a concerned questioning of the rogues' desire to fight the Gathakanathi warriors. A brief exchange is had between Hoshino and Pakia, during which she expresses her sympathies. While Hoshino would like to inquire further about what she meant, Pakia suggests that the discussion be had at a later time. The conversation shifts to a time some fifty-odd years prior, in which incursions were occurring that she helped thwart that were not happening in the Range directly, but in the surrounding areas and cities. Eventually, the main event is at hand as the three party members ready themselves for friendly matches against the Goliath warriors. It ends with tales of how the Gathakanaki clan came to be and the spymaster Nimia as she reveals information about The Bard of One Hundred Towns and more.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amid the aftermath, the party delves into research, uncovering ancient texts and relics that reveal startling truths. Hoshino confesses his role in a calamity that plagued Sloane, tied to his pact with Antithesis, a rival of the Daughters. The group empathizes with his revelation, recognizing the heavy burden of his choices. Their investigation points to Iolan’s connection to Antithesis, leading them to reflect on the age-old struggle they’ve inherited. As they prepare for what’s ahead, the party trains, gathers resources, and seeks answers, determined to face the challenges looming on the horizon. There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 23, “The Past Returns”. How will the rest of this story unfold?

Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After catching up, the group walks around Tradeshore, starting with a visit to Roscoe, the bard. They request his help in sending a message to Sloane, providing an update on their recent job and her location. Roscoe agrees on the condition that they share their stories with him, which they find fair. They also offer him steady work at the Witty Glaive, the tavern Thorak and Ursus now own. Grateful, Roscoe accepts. Following his recommendation, they visit The Haberdashery, a shop run by Zaria, a tiefling. After introductions, Valen inquires about enchanting his bracers but struggles with the cost. Through negotiation, the group agrees to trade and make a deposit for the enchantment.

Armed with information from Roscoe, the group heads to the Citadel Farthing and stops at an herbalist shop run by Izca. While Izca is occupied, Valen scouts the shop's upper and lower levels, discovering a locked room in the basement. He and Dona investigate, uncovering unidentified alchemical concoctions linked to the Scorching Sun group. Narrowly avoiding detection, they leave but are stopped by two city guards who recognize Thorak and Ursus. Thorak cleverly enlists the guards to surveil Izca’s shop while the group takes a break to prepare for the evening's events.

Their respite is short-lived when the surveillance team reports suspicious activity at Izca’s shop. The group hurries back, devising a stealthy plan to investigate. In the basement, they find a gruesome discovery: long-dead bodies that were not there earlier. The unsettling turn of events deepens their concerns about the Scorching Sun and heightens the urgency of their mission.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze!

Theme Music "Sunk Cost Fallacy" is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party makes last-minute preparations for their travel, ensuring they don’t forget anything, as they don’t know if and when they’ll be back in Drose. Zechs gives Hoshino a 2nd level Moonbeam scroll that he’s been holding onto for quite some time. Before long, the group is back on the Swift Hummingbird, and we find Hoshino and Arguile creating scrolls out of the spell book the party found ages ago that belonged to the Arcanoloth. The two make a great pair and manage to successfully pull quite a few scrolls before they decide not to push their good luck any further. As the last pull happens, Shanks initially bets the ship's gunner for some coin, but the gunner suggests that if Hoshino is flawless in his execution, he’ll throw in a personal recipe for plastique. Hoshino is successful, and Shanks is told he will have the recipe later that day.

Shanks later speaks with Greyleaf, discussing his transformation from Kyver to Greyleaf. Greyleaf explains his fight with the son of the Vitalis, who took his life, but fate had other plans for him. He took it as a sign to leave all the negative that came with Kyver and let it die in that ring. The conversation continues and touches on some deeper parts of Greyleaf’s upbringing and reasoning that he didn’t tell the group much while with the party. In the conversation, he reminds Shanks that he can ask questions, but as he’s said before, he can only speak about his own story. They have an uneasy conversation about Rig in which Shanks tells Greyleaf that he’s not the same person he was before and doesn’t live his life with regrets.

Finally, the group touches down and is informed that they are at the Barrier Range. The group takes off, gathering the heavy cloaks from the bag of holding that Cereius once gave them. The travel up is almost entirely covered in fresh snow, which does not help Zechs’ newest “gift” from Malar. The brisk and open mountain air and the sparkle from the snow heightened his sight and smell, and it was not a comfortable adjustment. The group bands together to help him out, and he’s grateful. They continue up the path, with Galahad and Zechs taking the lead. When they finally arrive, Galahad explains to the person who meets them that he is from the line of “Those That Wandered,” Panea had mentioned coming here to meet them. There is a tense pause before the goliath says, “Come with me.” The group meets with their leader, Pakia, and Galahad explains what he knows of his ancestry. To this, she gives recognition, inquiring further about any more details since his ancestor's departure from Sloane. They finish speaking, and she encourages them to stay, which they accept, and participate in the festival. We finish with the group around a dinner table with drinks and tales of their party’s early days. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up with the party as they begin planning for the day. Zechs and Galahad go shopping, and Zechs gets the party an item for communication called “The Spies Murmur.” After returning and giving the items to the group, he informs Galahad and Shanks about his current condition in fighting Malar. He asks for their help in training him to be more efficient in what he excels at and not trying to fit the parts of the group where he feels need to be covered. Afterward, Shanks informs Arguile that he knows what’s happening with his mom and that while he’s in no place to force him to disclose the information with the rest of the team, he assures Arguile that he has his back. Arguile confirms the information and lets Shanks know that he has things in motion already and will present them to the group when that is all ready.

The latter half of our story involves Shanks, Greyleaf, Arguile, and Galahad in the courtyard, discussing the methods of extracting the purple worm poison and what they intend to do with it afterward. It’s decided that Galahad, who likely has the most suitable muscle memory for the job, will be tasked with extracting the poison into vials. It is a slow start, as he is a bit more delicate than he knows he needs to be. During this time, Arguile reminds the guys that these are worth a lot in gold, and they would be set on selling off most of it, to which Shanks says that he will decide once they’re all extracted what he will do with them. They retrieve 18 vials between the two poison sacs. After this, they notice that quite a crowd has gathered to check out what they are up to. Shanks takes ten vials for himself and splits the other eight into two groups to distribute among the group. As we end, Galahad addresses the group and asks if it would be okay for them to stop off at the Range to visit the Goliath tribe. The group says yes, and they begin to form a plan for the next few legs of their journey. At this point, Arguile informs the group of his need to go to Iwi and his timeline for this to happen. This starts to change their plan, and they spend the rest of the evening making a new plan, which includes the timeline for the rescue of Arguile’s mother in Iwi and stopping Galahad’s father from taking revenge on the Ridge. It seems like the plan is relatively simple: goliaths in the Barrier Range, extract Malar from Zechs in Nymora, head to Iwi to help Arguile rescue his mom, and then go straight over to stop Galahad’s father and the titan he’s currently in possession of. Easy right? There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shanks returns triumphant and looks like hell from his battle with the giant purple worm. He and Jrehg share that the tunnels left behind were used in the attempted siege of Drose. After that, they reveal the poison, which they confirm is just as valuable as deadly. After the group begins to disperse, Greyleaf is approached by Arguile regarding helping him with a huge favor. Through a sending stone, Greyleaf sets up a meeting with Arguile and his contact, who is revealed to be Rig. Before they get down to business, Rig and Greyleaf share a warm hug and show a side of both of them; Arguile and the group indeed had not seen while they all traveled together. The conversation picks up with Rig asking if Arguile was one of the ones who defended her, wished her dead, or remained neutral in the skirmish at the Cascade, which seems like a lifetime ago but is entirely unfamiliar to THIS Rig, as she is not the same one that the party or Shanks knew. Greyleaf informs her that Arguile was and, from what he knows of him, tends to remain a neutral party in many matters.

Knowing this, she proceeds, and Arguile discusses his predicament. He asks if, with or without the party, he can get passage to Iwi to rescue his mother. She agrees and tells him to contact her, and she will appear. They also make notes to say that if the party tries anything, they will handle it in their own way. After she leaves, Arguile gives a heartfelt thank you to Greyleaf and hugs him, and he allows himself to break down and cry momentarily. Greyleaf and Shanks discuss toxins, poisons, and the like after breakfast when Greyleaf shares with Shanks a vial that unnerves him. They discuss the implementations and intentions behind what they use these for, which the group has skewed but mixed opinions on.

As things settle, a goliath woman embarrassingly asks, “Which of you is from the Gathakanaki clan?” Quickly, she realizes that Galahad is the one she is looking for. After introductions, she tells them she is curious and wants to meet him as she is also a Gathakanaki but has never met him. He explains the history of the Goliaths that accidentally found themselves on Granzia from Sloane. After their chat, she invites Galahad to the Barrier Range to meet the rest of his distant family. After a quick discussion, the group decided that that was their next destination. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our scattered heroes met back up in Tradeshore at a tavern called “The Witty Glaive.” Bob and Dona are the first to arrive, with Ursus and Thorak behind them, and Valen, who finally arrives. The group decides to indulge in food, drink, and revelry as they all want to catch each other up on what has been happening to them. They have orders placed with Hebrin Steelebelly, a dwarf who helps run the establishment that Ursus and Thorak now own. We start with Thorak and Ursus in the desert. Having recently saved a woman, they are catching their breath and planning for what’s next. Thorak sees Ursus and the woman getting along well, so he walks outside and makes some animal friends. Urusus and the woman continue to talk, but Urusus can’t help but find himself enamored with the woman. Unfortunately, her rescue was a ruse, and she is a succubus. Thorak learns something is off with the situation when one of the animals tells him that many people go in, but they never return from that place. Thorak rushes in, catching the two in an awkward situation, and begins fighting the succubus while trying to convince Urusus that she’s bad news. The fight ends with her escape, Ursus returns to his senses, and the Slash Brothers raid and torch her place.

We then glimpse a grizzly scene where Bob and Dona are, a burning ship coming into shore, and screams are heard in the distance. Upon getting to the ship to help, they do what they can to save anyone and douse the intense flames. They end their tale by saying that most of the people are deceased, and a flag is recognized by one of the crew as “their brothers.” Finally, Valen tells the group what happened after he ran through the soft spot, taking Soris, the child. He explains they found themselves on top of a large island, where an airship found them and gave them safe passage. JM notes that Valen tells the truth as best as possible, as he was sworn to secrecy for a large chunk of what transpired. He brought Soris to a hidden city in the sky inhabited by Hilderfolk, who were expecting the arrival of Soris and Valen. Valen learns that Soris is not an Uniluum child but a rare amethyst dragon and a descendant of a legendary dragon that helped stop a disaster. Soris reveals himself in his proper dragon form and thanks Valen for being with him and being his friend.

Soris and Valen have a touching exchange, and Valen promises to stay with Soris for a bit to help him settle in. If he truly wishes to stay, he would not stop but would encourage him to check out where their original destination was, if he may be needed there as well. It is decided that Valen would tell the skyship to go on without him and that he was grateful to them for their aid. Valen informs Soris that he will stay with him as long as possible, but must depart soon to meet back up with the party. Valen tells Soris his decisions are his own, and he won't try to persuade him to pursue the other location any longer. He finishes by saying that, eventually, he will make his way there to see what that’s like and do what he can to stay in touch with Soris. We finish with the group, making plans for what’s to come. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Blood and Booze!

Theme Music "Sunk Cost Fallacy" is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party gathers for breakfast, and Galahad shares his recent conversation with Bahamut, where he learns he is now officially his Champion. He reflects on his happiness, primarily from his achievements in battle, and discusses the looming threat from his father, who controls a titan and plans to avenge the Ridge. Arguile offers to help Galahad communicate with Arioch, raising concerns about the approaching confrontation. The conversation shifts to Zechs’ situation with Malar, and Galahad urges him to resolve it before they leave Sloane, noting the strain it places on him. They discuss the complexities of Zechs's connection to Malar and the possibility of finding a solution.

Galahad and Zechs then set off to find the Dawnstalkers, a group that Zechs hopes can guide him in his paladin journey. Along the way, Galahad speaks about Bahamut’s advice regarding Malar, emphasizing the need to free Zechs from his grasp. Zechs admits he hadn’t expected to resolve this issue so soon, but agrees to continue. Upon meeting the Dawnstalkers, led by a Leonin named Siaxa, Zechs explains his desire to choose a paladin oath that will allow him to protect those he cares about. Siaxa emphasizes the seriousness of taking such an oath, advising Zechs to carefully consider his commitment before moving forward. They also discuss the history of the order and its connection to the natural world, resonating with Zechs’ background as a ranger.

By the end of their discussion, Zechs realizes that the Packwarden oath aligns with his values and protective instincts. Siaxa and Galahad reassure him that the path he’s considering is right for him, though he must overcome any lingering doubts. Zechs expresses gratitude for their guidance and acknowledges that this journey will differ from his experiences. He feels more confident in his decision, ready to embrace the challenges ahead as he continues to navigate his paladin journey with the support of his friends.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We return to Shanks’ training with Jrehg in the Forgotten Quarter. They start by traversing down the tunnels left by the Draegoloths that wreaked havoc in the city. The further they explore, the more they begin to see that those same creatures could not have created these tunnels. Instead, they must have been made by something even larger than them… much larger! Jrehg informs Shanks that this is the work of Purple Worms, fortunately, an adolescent, but that is not to say it worked alone. The pair continues, and Jrehg asks Shanks plainly: “What do you intend me to teach you? You are already a skilled fighter, but is there something different you are looking for instead”? Shanks informs his new mentor that he wishes Jrehg would help him reconnect to the pieces of him that feel shattered and fragmented in his mind. He wants to, simply put, feel whole again. He wants to figure out how to regain some of the control that seems to be constantly outside his grasp. 

Jrehg begins to give Shanks a brief but informative history lesson on Sloane’s “Wandering Hills.” His takeaway is: “The only thing in your control is how you handle yourself. You can not control how others within your traveling party, whether they be your friends, your family, your compatriots… The only variables you can truly account for are the things inherent to you.” He explains that Shanks is skilled, insightful, and attentive… His skills will undoubtedly benefit others, especially those in the party, but he can not control what they do with the information that his skills provide them. Shanks can not force balance or understanding… despite his best efforts, sometimes people must learn the hard way, including him. 

Their travel continues to be deeply philosophical and eye-opening for our resident sharpshooter. They speak on a wide array of topics that help give Shanks the sense of clarity he’s been seeking. As their conversation begins to wrap up, they find themselves in a large cavern, where the pair stops to assess the area. As they do, they hear something massive quickly approaching them. A fight with a purple worm commences! While the two came out on top, it was not an easy fight. Jrehg was swallowed whole, and Shanks nearly knocked on death’s door. The two heal up, scavenge what they can from the felled creature, and call it a successful lesson for Shanks.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the group navigates these revelations, Shanks dreams of an orcish figure, and Glad encounters her alternate self in a vivid interaction about her faith and the death of her husband. Various group members have visions and dreams tied to their past and future, including Hoshino seeing a mysterious woman and Salix communicating with a Void Dragon. Once they arrive in Drose, they meet Chantico, the protector of the Eternal Flame, and are split up to complete their tasks. Galahad is tasked with mentoring Xoco, a Guardian of Drose, and the rest of the group meets Tozi, who provides them with crucial historical insights.

As they explore the city, Arguile and Shanks are robbed by an old man and his cat, but successfully retrieve their stolen goods after a tense exchange. Zechs meets Isolde, a tiefling scholar, who gives him essential knowledge about Malar and his role within the Pantheran Pantheon. The group reconnects later, sharing updates on their tasks and planning their next steps. Galahad takes on his role as Xoco’s mentor, and the group prepares to face new challenges in Drose.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 22, “ The Second Coming”. How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Read & Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been three weeks since the last time we heard from our party. Things went off the rails when some dragons showed up at the Monastery of Perpetuity. Valen dipped out with the Unillum child Soris, Thorak & Ursus went after them, and Dona & Bob jumped the following night. They ended up in vastly different parts of the plane. Luckily, Dona and Bob found themselves a tavern (The Second Turtle Inn) and a Bard in Tradeshore, named Roscoe, who could send out a message to their friends. The message boiled down to “Get your asses down to Tradeshore so we can regroup and figure out what to do from here.” Over the next three weeks, Thorak, Ursus, and Valen found their way down to the southern coastal city of Tradeshore. Bob, Dona, and Valen reconnect first, and while they’re exploring the city, they happen in a tavern called the Witty Glaive. And that is where we pick up…

Theme Music "Sunk Cost Fallacy" is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We return to the group as Hoshino begins a Spirit Session. A spattering of different spirits arrives and helps guide him to the knowledge he seeks. With the acquired Legend Lore spell, he begins to gather the group again to perform the ritual. He seeks information on Iolan and gains somewhat cryptic information regarding her after the spell. The group gathers that there is a throughline of connection to Antithesis, Iolan, and Hoshino. After more thought and talk surrounding the Legend Lore, the group hears a voice saying, “That was impressive.” An unfamiliar voice to Hoshino in particular, but the group as well… until they turn to see Kyver in their presence… except… changed somehow? His accent is gone, he looks presentable, and he informs the group that he goes by the name Greyleaf. Rapidly, questions, disbelief, relief, and jokes form.

After calming down Hoshino, who, for obvious reasons, is untrustworthy of this new face, the group introduces them properly. Greyleaf also reintroduces himself to Salix, as their time together was brief, and they probably saw him in a much different light than he currently is. He tells bits of the story of where he’s been, what he’s been up to, the reveal of a daughter and wife, and a lack of drinking. It takes some time to process it all, and for some, it takes longer than others in the group. There are still some sentiments of shock and disbelief, and now frustration begins to form as he informs the party that he can only tell them so much, as he is not at liberty to tell other people’s stories. He lets the group know he, Cereius, We Aqha, Rig, and the Mercurial Avenger are a party under the employ of one Mister Bell. He also informs them of what happened to him in Nymora and the Vitalis Manor. Zechs informs him that he’s upset he chose HIS identity out of anyone to use, AND is still a little upset about the assault on his father.

Greyleaf apologizes, and the group catches him up as well. They share a drink of revelry at the return of their ally and friend. We end with a conversation between Galahad and Bothok. Pleasantries are exchanged before they speak candidly on Galahad’s line of questioning. The rift that brought his clan to Granzia is still present, but may not be the exact bridge between the two planes. He learns that his father is working with Arioch to bring back a titan. Galahad realizes there are more players on the board now with this information, and he must do his best to get things to a halt before the gathering on the Ridge. Upon ending the conversation, he adds Arioch to his “list.” He is reminded of some of the first words he ever heard from his patron… “Violence is a last resort; exhaust all other options.” There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Finding and investigating the former quarters of Iolan, the party comes across a library with many books that, while not magical, are rich with information on all the various schools of magic. Also, in this library, they come across a map of Sloane that is not the Sloane that they now know, but one that is likely from ages gone by. After, with Jrehg's guidance, they wander around the burial site of a large-scale battle. They don’t find much of note other than the appearance of a grave where someone once lay, which shows the handmarks of someone climbing out of their grave. They give Chantico, Tozi, and Xoco their findings and head back to the inn to find Hoshino in a better state than they left him. 

After catching up with the party, Hoshino reveals that he was the cause of the calamity during that age of Sloane. With this, he tells them that Eldertwine is the plague that took hold of the plane of Sloane. He goes on to explain that in his pursuit to thwart death towards the later years of his life, he found what is called Antithesis—one of the entities that oppose the Daughters and with whom he struck a deal. However, he tells them of this fateful encounter and his trials to get his gift of extended life at a high cost. 

After this, the party takes a second to process what they heard, but extend to Hoshino nothing but empathy as they know it is not a choice that came lightly. Going through the books and map the group took from the library, the group realizes that Iolan must have also sought Antithesis. According to the journals, the last entries appear to line up before the end of that age. The group begins to separate and do what they can to train, gain information, rest, or make sense of the recent events. Arguile reaches out to the soul in his sword, figures out the dynamic between Ÿbo and Iolan, and what other information she can provide that would help in any way.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the ninth episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Tone (Galahad), and Floki (Redacted) discuss and come up with the lore surrounding the region of Coldbring. Over the course of the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the northern reaches of Granzia.

VO: Antonio Perez, Floki the DM

Edited and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Narration written & recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Ursus by Antonio Perez

Dona by Cheyenne Clardy

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the siege of Drose reaching its conclusion. Most of the party helps the citizens as best as possible and regroups outside the temple. As the adrenaline leaves Hoshino, he’s shocked and heads to the Inn with Glad. The party, minus Zechs, catches each other up on what they’ve experienced and uses their shared knowledge to inform their next steps. Together, they recount the story Bound to the Void, the conversation that Gerviss had with Salix, Arguile had with Ÿbo, and any other information they’ve gathered so far. It’s decided that Arguile would likely need to speak with Fel once more and Ÿbo again after that. Salix speaks to Gerviss, and he informs them that Iolan and Ÿbo are lovers. Outside of that, he didn’t have much more information to offer as he was unaware of their story.

On the other hand, Zechs decides to head back to the Scholar’s Enclave to seek information regarding the creatures that attempted to overtake the city and figure out any info regarding Eldertwine. Regrouping with the rest of the team, Zechs catches up and divulges the information he gleaned to the team. A critical few details arise… Iolan mentioned Hoshino Matsuo by his full name and said she was there to give her regards. She spoke with Arguile directly, briefly, and insisted that Ÿbo was not trustworthy. Together, they head over to Tozi and explain what happened based on what they saw. They also give her information about Iolan being the culprit. Tozi is grateful for their help in protecting the city and its people. She asks that the group remain in Drose for a few more days to ensure the citizens' safety in the event of another attack. The party agrees, and they again begin to disperse throughout the city. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The siege of Drose is fully underway, and the party is scattered across the city. The Draegloth are sources of fear and shock as they pass through Drose and its citizens. Glad heads back to the inn and lets Arguile and Salix know to send people her way for safety, rest, and healing. Arguile and Salix agree and make their way through the city, taking out many of these creatures along the way. Arguile uses his Guardian’s Rapier, and Salix uses their Druidic wild shape ability to get the job done. Galahad works with the city guard to eliminate the threats and uses his animated tower shield to protect the citizens. Shanks is with Dreg, clearing out enemies with his bow, Mind’s Eye, and Jrehg with a greatsword of carved bone that cleaves enemies as if paper. He wields this weapon with ease, which is impressive as it’s almost the size of Galahad. On the other side of the city, Duo helps guide citizens to safety and provides “eyes in the sky” for Zechs. Hoshino, Zechs, and conjured bears help take down some of the Draegloths and help rescue the citizens who are in the path of destruction. There is chaos throughout the city, but Collateral is doing its best to be the heroes we know them to be.

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We return to the battle with Xoco, Galahad, and the intruders of Drose. Upon the enemy’s defeat, Xoco makes the call to abandon her trial and realizes that Drose is under siege and needs the champion’s protection. We then pan over to Hoshino and Zechs, I'm the Scholar’s Ward, and enjoy themselves until a mysterious figure disrupts the history lesson, leaving Hoshino in a state of shock and Zechs uncertain of what to do. We finish with Salix and Gerviss discussing Salix’s disdain and history with Dragonkin. It is an exchange of understanding, empathy, and guidance of their newfound abilities. However, Drose is under siege, and the conversation is cut short. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written, Edited, and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Narration written & recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Chantico by Liza

Bob by Sebastian Bonet

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up for the conclusion of the heated argument between Glad and The Protector. Afterward, Shanks, with the aid of Hoshino and Galahad, offers her empathy and understanding. She is comforted by this, and Shanks breathes a sigh of relief, seeing as this did not go so well in his similar attempt with Zechs. Arguile breaks off from the group and connects with the Guardian’s Rapier. He is asked to introduce himself and asks what he wishes to know. He gets a history lesson on the origins of this blade, its previous wielder, and the soul that resides within it, ending the conversation with the soul saying, “She’s here”. We pan over to Shanks as he finds Jrehg, the Orc he was told to find. They connect upon learning that Shanks speaks Orcish and learning more about each other and their respective histories. There is a discussion about the gods, balance, and goals while the two traverse through the city of Drose. We end with Xoco in gleaming armor, beginning to make her way through Drose with Galahad, and begin her trials. She is confident, and Galahad assures her she will prevail, but the first trial proves difficult, with her being charmed. Eventually, she breaks the hold over her, but the fight in front of them is only just beginning.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last we left off, the group and Xoco were catching up as they had with many new allies. There are jokes made at Galahad’s expense, and they eventually go out for the evening for food, drink, and more revelry. Salix makes their way to a temple to speak with Gervis, the void dragon, and connect more with the Daughter of the Void. They ask for guidance and a bit of clarity in the understanding of their powers and their role. Later that evening, we get Arguile’s education on the Guardian’s Rapier. He learns how to utilize its powers fully AND learns the connection between the gentleman Fel Mon’ri, a descendant of a companion to the soul residing inside the Guardian’s Rapier, Ÿbo. Afterward, Arguile is handed a piece of magical parchment that allows Arguile to write and for Fel to see. Back at their lodging, Zechs gives Hoshino The Quill of Desire, which he’s had since his time in Barovia and felt was better suited for the bard. We end with Glad in a meditative state, unknowingly reaching out to her patron, The Protector. The conversation started well, but escalated as he avoided answering Glad’s questions. Was she being manipulated by him? Could she truly trust him or what her alternate said of him? This entire exchange left Glad feeling uncertain and at her wits' end. The truth may not be what she truly wishes to hear, according to The Protector. Tensions rise as we head into the next episode. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theme music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Read & Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Narration written & recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Thorak by Nhan Nguyen

Valen by Lawrence Bentiné Jr.

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We return to Arguile and Shank's pursuit of their elusive thieves. There is a pincer move into the abode, and they are left with a ring and no man. Upon examining the item and its surroundings, they take the ring to a magic shop to confirm Shanks’ suspicion that it is a ring of storage, a sort of extraplanar space that allows someone to go within and be hidden from the world temporarily. Meanwhile, Glad and Salix are catching up and are uncharacteristically enjoying a stiff drink versus tea. Salix asks if she wants to go out and blow off some steam, shop, walk around, and look around the city, and have a surprise for her. Glad agrees, and the two bamf across the city thanks to the Daughter of the Void’s blessing bestowed upon Salix. After some shopping, the two continue talking about what’s been going on recently with Glad and her encounter with her alternate, and Salix sets up some training dummies via the spell mold earth. Glad and Salix display incredible gifts of athleticism and magic, and draw themselves into quite a crowd.

Back to the rogues, we find them at a magic shop, and their suspicions are confirmed. They plead with the old man and eventually find him and his familiar exiting the ring. There is a tense exchange that does see their items returned to them, but there’s also a request that Arguile come to see him again that evening. While Shanks invites himself, there’s a correction: because of Arguile’s Guardian’s Rapier and its soul, there is only a need for him. We start to finish this story with Galahad and Xoco, and Galahad being frank and asking Xoco to come clean with what he needs to help her with for her trial. Eventually, the group returns to their lodgings, catching each other up on their doings for the day and discussing the next steps for their time in Drose. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We cut to Arguile and Shanks gathering materials for alchemy when they stumble upon a blue cat. As they continue to walk, they find a concerned-looking gentleman searching for the cat, and the two help the older gentleman reunite with his companion. Only a few moments later, they realize that Shanks’ bag of supplies and Arguile’s haversack are missing. The old man and his cat pickpocketed them. The two split up alongside Scyra, Arguile’s familiar, to track down the man and their stolen goods. Elsewhere, Zechs meets Isolde in the Scholar’s Ward, who is expecting him. She greets him and Duo and asks him to discuss with her what’s been happening to him, sparing no detail as she is in no rush, and the more information she has, the easier it is for her to aid him, if possible. Zechs indulges her and goes on, over some tea and snacks, everything, including Malar. She clarifies what he knows about Malar and the Pantheran Patheon, as well as about his origin and part in all this. The Pantheon are not his siblings but his creation. Zechs is grateful for all the information and thanks her for her time and generosity. Before leaving, she hands him a pendant, tells him to seek out the group that carries the symbol upon it, and gives him a tarot card reading that is appreciated but leaves him much more to ponder. We pick back up to Shanks and Arguile, tracking down the abode of the thief and his cat. Arguile uses Scyra to look at the abode above, and the gentleman suddenly appears in view.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We start with introductions being made between Xoco and the party. There is a recognition of Arguile’s Guardian’s Rapier blade, and Xoco expresses that the more she learns of the party, the more odd and incredible they seem. Arguile takes his blade and uses burning hands on it; upon finishing the spell, he feels a resonance with the blade, like a tuning fork. Galahad clarifies his role with Xoco in helping her find her oath. Zechs has another dream with what he now recognizes as the Pantheran pantheon of Nymora and gains insight into their connection with Malar. The next morning, the group informs Xoco about some of their group’s shared history, realizing that each time they tell a story, it needs context, and that context is another long story. Arguile has a conversation with Arioch that leaves Arguile feeling like he’s not getting the full scope of what Arioch has in store for him. Arioch informs him that, eventually, the time will come when he will have to decide to leave the party and get to his mother before the creatures that are inevitably inbound to take over Nakoroa do so. Shanks confirms with Xoco about the orc ranger he will meet for his training as a ranger. Zechs is directed to a Tielfing woman named Isolde, who is in the Scholar’s Enclave and could help him answer his questions about Malar and the pantheon and what to do next.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We begin with Salix finally speaking to Gerrvis, the Void Dragon from “Bound to the Void,” in which Gerrvis extends his aid to give them full control over their promised gifts. After which, the party realizes that they are on a descent. The had finally made it to the lost city of Drose, and their arrival was expected by those who received them. A Unillum with a salamander fire spirit tells the ship to begin their descent. Once on the ground, they are met with Chantico, The Sentinel/Protector of the Eternal Flame. They are greeted and told to go with Hagen, her aide, while Zechs and Galahad follow her. Galahad and Zechs go on to meet Xoco, the woman Galahad was told to meet, and they find that she was told to meet him as well. Galahad is tasked with aiding her in finding her paladin oath. Zechs and Galahad also run down what has been happening with the party and ask if Drose can offer anything to help Zechs with his Malar situation. The others meet with the Heart of the Eternal Flame, Tozi, and get a brief history lesson about Drose and the Guardian’s Rapier that is with Arguile. Xoco is told to watch Zechs as they trust their party, but not what he harbors. Galahad finds out about the trial and that he is to help Xoco become the Guardian of the Drose. They’ve finally arrived in the lost city of Drose. Just what mysteries will they uncover?

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We open with several party members asking their three questions to this giant stone face floating in the sky. They are given some prophecies of what will come with the sky giants, insight on how to separate Zechs from Malar, and some other cryptic information that they will take some time to piece together. That night, Shanks receives a vision from Solonor of an orcish figure. The Elven God seems to insist on having Shanks seek him out. Glad, on the other hand, has an encounter with her alternate. A powerful Circle of Dreams Druid, and their conversation gets intense rather quickly. Glad brings this up to Shanks, Salix, and Hoshino the following day, over an out-of-character stiff drink. Hoshino has his series of visions and begins to write down what he saw to remember all the details, particularly that of a woman closely connected to his past that he doesn’t recognize. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Days later, the group arrives, and before even getting the chance to settle in, the group realizes they’re under attack, which is an ambush. We see The Constable’s lieutenants in the forms of an Alternate Galahad, Shankise, Salix, and the Executioner. They are not alone; they’re accompanied by members of Shanks’ old crew, The Wolf Pack. A tense battle resulted in the group seeking a retreat in Salix’s hermitage, trapped by a force cage. It’s there that the group finds The Constable, Shankise, and Alma, the woman who kidnapped so many children in Nymora, the reason for so much of Zechs’ and Kyver’s pain, standing alongside him. Upon meeting The Constable for the first time, Hoshino uses Dimension Door to flee the hermitage and narrowly escapes the pursuit of Shankise in a game of cat and mouse.

Meanwhile, inside the hermitage, the conversation with The Constable, the party, and some uninvited guests creates tension that puts the entire group on edge. A lot is revealed, leaving a few party members at their breaking point. Eventually, the group is left there, and Hoshino returns, clearly shaken, and the group plans again.

The group assesses the damage to the Swift Hummingbird and realizes it will require some assistance and a new crystal. Making their way back to Invenas, they first stop by Iggy, whom they catch up with and give Arguile the gold from their bet. Back at the hermitage, we find Hoshino deep in a trance, reflecting upon a memory; it’s a shocking revelation that brings to light how we find our bard removed from time. The Invenas group finally makes its way toward Aeron Stormrider and requests his help in the ship’s repair.

We end with a conversation between Shanks and Hoshino, where Arioch pushes Shanks to his limits and further plants the seeds of chaos in Shanks.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 20, “A Path Less Traveled ”. How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Read & Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up with Shanks trying to figure out how to connect with Zechs and struggling in the process. With the aid of Galahad, Hoshino, and Arguile, they conclude that speaking to him and not at him would be best. Zechs is family, so Shanks should try to empathize with him. Later that evening, Arguile has a strange dream that has him in the point of view of a man named Yurrik, who, at this point, is interacting with Arguile’s mother. Shanks eventually finds himself with Zechs, and they have a heart-to-heart that leaves Zechs feeling like he knows more and connects more with Shanks in these past few weeks than he has in his entire time, knowing the sharpshooting elf. A few days pass, and the group sees something unbelievable in the distance. Upon closer inspection, and with some caution, they find that this is a giant stone face floating in the sky. The ship keeps a wide berth, and after a pass from Duo, they decide it is safe enough to bring the ship in closer. They begin to confer with themselves about what to do when the face says, “Ask your questions three.” They confer once more and realize that they each can ask three questions. After carefully considering and choosing, they begin to ask and learn answers that have been on the group’s mind for what feels like eons now. With all the answers to questions left unspoken, will they like what they hear or regret ever asking?

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The battle intensifies, and the team tries to be free of the influences of Malar. Doing away with the harpoons in the ship, the were-creature attackers, and the taxing amount of willpower it’s taking for Zechs to fend off Malar. In the aftermath of the battle, we get a very distraught Zechs barely hanging on and continuing to fight Malar within him. As the team surrounds him and offers their aid, Malar tries to plant seeds of doubt, while Zechs reminds him that his team gives him strength. There is an assessment of damage and the regrouping to strategize spoils and planning for the next steps. Eventually, too tired to do anything else, Zechs retreats to his chambers and has a nightmare that wakes him in a cold sweat. He finds Hoshino on the deck of the ship and explains what he saw in his sleep. Hoshino offers aid and comfort to Zechs, and Zechs drinks himself back to sleep. The next several days, we find Zechs keeping to himself in his room. Shanks, upon speaking to Hoshino and Galahad, proceeds to speak to Zechs and offer some level of empathy, which isn’t received well, as Zechs is feeling Malar’s presence even more in recent days. It’s a tense time on the ship as everyone tries to make the most of the time they’ve got on the ship on the way to Drose. Spirits are low for some, and there’s a concern for what’s to come for the group. It’s just another day with Collateral, isn’t it?

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The team uses its downtime effectively to train, seek advice, and rest. Shanks tests the limits and advantages that his new scope provides for his bow, Mind’s Eye. All of the rest comes to an abrupt halt with the presence of an airship making a fast approach to theirs. Evasive maneuvers are taken, plans are quickly made, and a massive fight ensues. Galahad is trying with the help of a summoned eagle to remove the spears that are trying to bind the two ships, dismantle the crystal that keeps them afloat, and destroy the enemy airship. The rest of the team is doing their best with the enemies. An array of were-creatures that are powered by the full moon and are drawn to their god, Malar. Zechs is having a rough go at it with Malar trying to weaken him mentally, and the fight starts to turn as the enemy ship begins its descent, plummeting from the sky while still bound to the Hummingbird. There is just never a dull moment for the team, is there?

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up at Salix’s family home, now finding the hidden room of their mother’s and an item that was meant for them, Juniper’s Bloom. It’s during this time that Salix gathers that their mother did not exit this plane at the hands of the cult, but instead on her terms. This broke Salix, and the rest of the group did their best to aid and comfort them in this moment. After returning from Invenas back to Salix’s hermitage, the group now sets off to Balazaar to see their friend Chico. It is a heartfelt and needed reunion, accompanied by two new faces at the Cascade. He catches the party up on what he’s been up to, and they catch him up in turn. Over some of his food, he comforts Salix and helps shed some light on the Malar issue and Zechs. Hoshino meets the famous Cascade chef, and they bond and Chico assures Hoshino that he will leave him with something special. They leave with more food than they would probably need and say their goodbyes. After the group's very short but special pit stop, they head back to the ship and set a course for Drose.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arguile, Zechs, Galahad, and eventually Salix go for a dip and have a friendly competition to see who catches the most fish. Upon coming back to the hermitage, we see Shanks is not fully recovered, but he feels better and rested at least. After some discussion, the group makes plans to visit Salix’s childhood home and see a rehearsal for Little G and the Bahamuts. They address that the “other-other” Salix was heading towards Invenas, and Salix addresses the elephant in the room with Zechs, Malar, and the multiple moons of Sloane. The group has a feast and heads to bed for a well-deserved rest. Zechs has a strange dream of a large tiger stalking and watching him, which leaves him uneasy and questioning what that means for him. Eventually, we see the group make their way back toward Invenas, as there is one more day before the ship is back operational. They go back to see the spectacle that is Little G. The group is beside themselves, some with amusement and others, mainly Galahad, reasonably upset by this mockery of him and what he stands for. Shanks makes his way, at this time, to a blacksmith to get his newly acquired Gem of Seeing made into a sight for his bow. It would take some time, and Shanks catches back up to the group where Zechs has stepped outside, stopping him, and assuring him that it’s best if he doesn’t go inside. The group makes their way to Salix’s family home and sees remnants that someone has torn the place apart. The group begins to search the place in the hopes of finding what has been pulling Salix to return to their family home. We end with Salix reading a note left by their mother, and we hear a heartfelt letter from a parent to their child.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and Read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Upon their return, they discover the Vitalis Manor transformed into a crime scene, triggering Zechs's turmoil. Zechs, Galahad, and Glad investigate, suspecting Kyver's involvement. Zechs leverages his bounty hunter status to gather information, uncovering a potential connection to the group's adversaries. Meanwhile, the rest of the group splits up for further investigation, encountering surprises such as an imposter tiefling and confirming suspicions about Kyver's associates. The discovery of a chilling letter from Agatha Vitalis prompts the group to divide again, with Glad, Galahad, and Zechs investigating the Drakewood Travelers while the others visit Kyver's family home for more clues.

Later, going to the Temple of Elrin for any additional information, but alas, there was none to be given. As they leave the temple, they begin to plan a freestyle battle to determine who indeed is the best Arguile. The other half of the party tries to find and piece together clues and gather any information that would give insight into these Drakewood Travelers. After they go off to explore the underground network underneath Nymora. It’s apparent that Zechs’ mind is racing, and he’s trying to keep himself busy. The sight he sees in “The Vineyard” while empty leaves a sense of tangibility. Kyver’s stories with this paint an even more disturbing picture and leave the group sullen at the sight of it all. All of this took place just below the city, a setting of unspeakable horrors and seemingly no end to how far it expanded.

Salix, Arguile, Hoshino, and Shanks begin to make a plan on how to lure out this “Fat” Arguile, concluding in the planning of an event. A battle of words that is catered by local food markets and led by the Murky Armadillo bakery and its owner, Sen. That evening, after word travels and a crowd gathers, the battle of words and food commences. It is a spectacular show that sees “Slim” Arguile come out on top. It was a great show that saw the community delighted at the event, and a sense of showmanship. With heavy hearts, Zechs, Glad, and Galahad make the tail end of the night’s festivities and decide to leave, sharing what they found until the next morning.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 19, “A Dramatic Turn of Events ”. How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Read & Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Upon concluding the conversation between Arioch, Arguile, and Shanks, the two speak with the group about Arioch’s offer. Shanks explains that he doesn’t want to be a liability to the group anymore, while Zechs assures him that he’s not the only one who feels that way, but they are a team at the end of the day, and he isn’t a liability. Galahad asks to see his contract with Arioch and explains that there is a difference in a deal between various entities and that the contract in hand was pretty ironclad. Glad assures Shanks that he is not alone in this endeavor, and if he wants to sever this hold Arioch has on him, she will help do just that. The group agrees that just before the first light, they will conduct a ceremony and separate the contract with the party's help.

Before the party ventures to the ceremony, Shanks comes clean with Glad and Galahad about the war between the Elves and Goliaths. He explains that he was the reason the war even started. He begins to explain in detail the events that led up to the war and how he feels responsible for what transpired and directly affected both of them. Glad proceeds to tell Shanks that she does not believe one person can be the sole reason for a war, to which Galahad agrees. While they both appreciate the information and the admission of guilt, that is not his burden to bear. With that, they proceed to the site for the ceremony and proceed with the ritual. It was a group effort, and everyone did what they could to aid in this process. While the ritual proved successful, it was not without a message from Arioch and a reminder for Shanks.

Afterward, the very exhausted Shanks went to bathe and rest with the aid of Salix and Glad. Arguile, Zechs, and Galahad asked Salix if there were any places where they could go for a swim. Hoshino decides to stay behind, and Salix asks Galahad to bring back some water for Shanks and the group. He also grabs his belt of returning and thinks of catching some food for the day.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After returning to Salix’s hermitage and having Aeron assess the damage to the Swift Hummingbird, the party decides to rest for the evening before making their next move. Duo wakes everyone up to inform them that breakfast is ready, and the group gathers in the kitchen to discuss what’s on the agenda for the day. Arguile poking the bear that is Galahad and making quips about Little G and the Bahamuts. Hoshino, Zechs, and Shanks set out to retrieve the necessary crystal to replace the one that had been damaged. Before heading out, Salix informs the group that Sloane is a sentient and living being, show reverence and respect as you enter, and do what you are going to do. The group meets the manifestation of Sloane when approaching and explains their purpose there. While this manifestation seems accepting of their goals, they are asked what their specific reasons are for doing what they are doing (in the grand scheme of things). This takes the group by surprise as they realize they may have never taken the time to ask that of themselves. After taking some time to ponder this, they respond. After hearing what the three have to say, the manifestation says that they are allowed to pick a crystal with them. Zechs informs them that they will return their broken crystal as a way to thank them.

The group comes together after returning the crystal, and Shanks informs the group that he does not feel like he should remain with the group, with the revelation about Arioch being his patron. There is an exchange from everyone that reassures him they will work through this together, as a team and family. He isn’t the only one feeling like they’re a liability to the group. Collectively, they ponder if they can sever the pact made between Shanks and Arioch. It would not be impossible, but it would be challenging to do. Arguile then asks if the three of them should have a conversation and ask direct questions. Upon meeting with Arioch, they are both given details of how their paths crossed. Stemming from decisions made by their parents and promises he made to them. It’s a lot to process, and as expected, the trouble with asking a heavy question is that you may not like what you get. The truth can be hard to swallow, especially if you can't trust the source. Arioch offers a unique solution in the form of a proposition of sorts. The group can fight Arioch, obviously not at his full strength, and with caveats and handicaps on the party as well, but with the promise of relinquishing Shanks from his contract, no questions asked.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Glad, via astral projection, joins the group in Invenas and offers to help the boys out if need be. The group connects with Aeron Stormrider and explains the needs of the Swift Hummingbird. They then also inquire if he can make some improvements to the ship, as the group expects that this wouldn’t be the last scuffle for the airship. Aeron explains that they’ll likely need another crystal to power the airship, but fortunately, they are naturally occurring throughout Sloane. Glad divines the location of the crystal before parting ways with the group to rest back at the hermitage. They are given some time for some light shopping before the group brings Aeron back with them to the hermitage. During this, they also take some time to gather research and find some useful information, as well as items for their journey. With that, the group uses Zechs’ bow, Jack of All Trades, to teleport back to the hermitage, but with some difficulty as Zechs is still getting familiar with this new ability. Reconnecting at Salix’s hermitage, the group catches up with one another and checks in with Hoshino, a bit shaken up still after his first encounter with The Constable. During the evening’s rest, Shanks and Hoshino have a deep conversation ranging from their histories and beliefs, and share things that they’ve kept close to the vest. A conversation that started as warm and thoughtful became one that brought with it a third uninvited guest to that conversation. Arioch, the Archduke of Chaos himself, whispers and plants the seeds of chaos into Shanks, leaving an unease in the air.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Galahad, Shanks, Arguile, and Zechs head to Invenas to find Aaron Stormrider, who would help with the repairs needed for the Swift Hummingbird. Hoshino, Glad, and Salix stay at the hermitage and assist the ship’s crew with any repairs and keep watch over them while the rest go into the city. The group collectively is hesitant about returning to Invenas, given that their last arrival there went poorly. As they approach the city, they let Shanks know that while he’s comfortable with his new appearance, it might be best to keep it under the radar, as they don’t know what the response will be to Elrin. He obliges, and they head to the Vice Ward to see Iggy, who has a large chest for Arguile as per their bet on whether or not they would succeed in their attempt to free the city of The Web. They catch up and exchange pleasantries with Iggy before checking in on their investment. On the way, they discuss the information that Iggy gave in regards to the Tell Tale Guild having yet to find the artifact they’ve been searching for. They go back and forth about what it could be, and the greater plans of the gods in play, and they are left to ponder the ramifications of what would happen if they found the artifact.

Back at the hermitage, Hoshino begins to meditate, and we see a glimpse of his story. We see his relationship with the Daughter of the Weave. It’s a story of fear, desperation, strength, hope, and more. We also get a glimpse of Sloane’s past, 4000 years ago, in a place called The Serpent’s Strait. The visions and memories, during this meditation, leave Hoshino with a tear (or two) that runs down the side of his cheek.

When we return to the Invenas group, they have made a pit stop to check in on their investment as they arrive at Chubby T’s. It’s there they meet the owner, Mr. Balderdash, and the “entertainment” if you wish to call it that, Little G and the Bahamuts. While some of the group seem uncertain of what they’ve entrusted their investment in, they hear out the plans for the grand opening and the future of this franchise. It’s a bit of relief and respite after an intense battle and exchange just a day before. With that, the group finally makes its way towards Aaron Stormrider.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party splits and goes to inquire about an airship to aid Quon. On the way, they meet Aura and catch up, and eventually chat with Tobera about Nymora’s recent incursion from Iwi. Back at Zechs’ family home, pranks and revelry result in a mental snap from Shanks. It’s revealed to the group that the stress of information, circumstances, and something he’s wrestled with his whole life has resulted in this fractured state of his. Later on, the group goes out with Aura and goes to see the bard Roscoe perform. They share and exchange cultures and have some drinks reminiscent of their respective backgrounds, and Zechs finds himself in a contemplative state towards the front of the venue. A heartfelt conversation is had between Zechs and Hoshino. Hoshino later speaks with the Daughter of the Weave, who reveals the stories of his compatriots even before they came together, resulting in a deeper understanding of the party he finds himself with.

The next morning, we find that it is Zechs’ 34th birthday, and a breakfast banquet is prepared by his parents. The group then continues preparations for the long travel ahead and makes their way toward the airship they have found to ferry them. On the way, Shanks and Salix continue to make more elven speed, perfecting the making of it and trying to work the bugs out. Hoshino performs a legend lore on Arguile’s rapier, the Guardian’s Rapier, which reveals a bit of cryptic information for the group. Quon sends a message that informs the group of his home’s current situation and informs the group that it might be too late to reverse what has transpired so far. In the downtime, the group catches up with Hoshino and Salix on this group's adventures and tries to fill in any details that would aid them in not only better knowing the task ahead but also the party. Hoshino and Zechs later discover that Zechs’ bow, Jack of All Trades, has transformed. A lot of investigating and experimentation has revealed one of the features to be the ability to create teleportation circles. This is great news, but does leaves Captain Cordell a bit peeved at Zechs’ new attempted art projects. After Zechs offers a poor attempt at an apology, Galahad comes to her aid and offers that the group will pay to leave the circle there and pay for any damages that may be incurred, which Cordell agrees to and finds to her liking.

The serenity of travel is interrupted by the appearance of a blue dragon on the horizon and inbound towards the ship. Galahad learns that there is a connection to Tiamat and prepares himself for the battle ahead. There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 17, “The Glasmeda Isles ”.

How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Read and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the team trying their best to keep it together and Hoshino on the run from Shankise, it’s only a matter of time before things go completely off the rails. In Salix’s hermitage, we come back to a very stressed-out team. The Constable is revealing more about his plans, who he serves, and WHY he does what he does. He even goes so far as to offer the group a place with him, in exchange for sparing their respective plane. No one takes the offer, but he assures them that they can take the time to mull it over. Things reach the boiling point when The Constable points out things that have been a thorn in his side and a wrench to his plans. Namely, Elrin, or it’s revealed… Arioch. With this revelation, the team looks at Arguile and Shanks for a reaction to this information. Shanks speaks with Arioch/Elrin, all the while face-to-face with The Constable, who is ALSO chatting with him. As Shanks’ head begins to spin with the information, he begins to break mentally again, as we’ve seen once before at Zechs’ home in Nymora. Shanks begins to frantically remove items from his person, tossing them onto the floor before him. Eventually, The Constable and company have had enough of the team and leave, dropping the force cage.

Shanks regains his faculties, and Hoshino returns to the hermitage with the news of what transpired. Shanks reveals that he had a blackout, and Hoshino questions his place within the group, his act of cowardice, and what the future holds for him. The discussion circles back to what the group will do with the new information about “Elrin” and check in on the crew for a status report. They received back from Duo that the ship will need repair and that the Captain said there was a look of pity on the face of The Executioner as they acted out The Constable’s will. They realize she may have questionable loyalty to him sometime later, as she is also a paladin for the Daughter of Light. The group decides to stay the night and go to Invenas to seek aid in repairing the ship. There’s also their new investment to check in on.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up with the group amidst a well-thought-out ambush for them. Allies are falling, others are suffering immense damage, and others are trying to do what they can to ensure they all survive. It becomes apparent that they will have to make a tactical retreat as they are outnumbered and overwhelmed by the enemy's immense power. There’s a moment of nervous energy as Galahad is shot out of the sky and begins to plummet, unconscious and unaware of what waits below him. Thankfully, Glad was able to heal him and bring him back from unconsciousness. Upon coming to, he applied lay on hands on himself for some healing as well, released his wings, and regrouped with the team towards safety. Everyone is doing what they can to help get some distance between the Wolf Pack and The Constable’s lieutenants, throwing just about everything they can from their bag of tricks. They follow Salix back to their hermitage, where a force cage is dropped on them. It’s where they come face to face with The Constable yet again, but he is not alone. To either side of him is Shankise, an alternate version of Shanks and Alma, the woman who kidnapped so many children in Nymora, including Zechs and Kyver. The Constable and Hoshino stare at each other for some time, and the bard, out of time, instinctively uses Dimension Door to flee the situation. Shankise is sent after him, and a game of cat and mouse begins, and Hoshino uses “Seeming” to appear like one of the unassuming creatures of Sloane.

Meanwhile, back at the hermitage, there is a tense conversation happening between The Constable, Alma, and the other members of Collateral. One that is seemingly stirring up Malar within Zechs, feeding on his rage towards the two figures in front of him. And we’re only getting started.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The group finally arrives at Salix’s hermitage. The place they stayed in was hidden from the Web for so long. The party gives them a moment to take it all in and let it settle in that they are not being hunted for sacrifice by that cult any longer. Words are exchanged, and they begin to settle in for the time being as the ship circles around for a place to land. Just as the group gets comfortable, they hear a MASSIVE explosion and, upon investigation, realize that the ship is under attack. Everyone rushes out and does their best to get to the scene as quickly as they can to help. Galahad and Duo take to the skies, and Shanks can see the smoke from the ship beginning to grow larger while on top of a high tree. Hoshino is on the move with Arguile and uses the spell dimension door to get as close as they can. It’s around that time when Zechs takes in the scene, realizes that this must be an ambush. Duo confirms that information, and the group gets into a battle with Shanks' past… The Wolf Pack! The fight does not look good for the group as they not only fight them but three of The Constable’s Lieutenants… Anti Salix, Anti Galahad, & The Executioner! There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up at the end of the festivities. The group reunites to exchange what has developed, and allows for the heavier news to follow later on. There is a lot of discussion on morality amongst the various party members. In a dream that evening, Thiadikus, at least a version of him, visits Galahad and wants to get a look at Antonius’ protege and the person that The Judge showed approval over. Over breakfast the next day, Galahad brings up his visit from Glad’s husband, and a discussion trying to sort out the news that the Constable indeed reports to someone higher than himself. Zechs then decides to inform the group of what Galahad, Glad, and he saw down in the Vineyard. Eventually, he decides to give an update to Amina via the Speak with Plants spell again before the group heads off to their meeting. The results of the meeting saw them as controlling shareholders of Chubby Ts and any future potential franchises. More was to be solidified after signing NDAs and determining a proxy, but they now have, potentially, a nice source of income in about six months. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let the battle of food and words COMMENCE!!! We pick back up with the crew of Arguile, Shanks, Salix, and Hoshino making final preparations for the battle of words between “Slim” Arguile and Fat Arguile. It was a glorious exchange of words and a spectacular show for the city of Nymora to behold. The food was incredible, and the mood was electric as things wrapped up. It was decided that “Slim” Arguile was the winner! Towards the end, the group enjoyed the rest of the food and connected with the people of Nymora, Fat Arguile, and eventually the rest of the party. With hearts heavy, Zechs, Galahad, and Glad decided to just enjoy this brief moment of joy and to save sharing what they found until the next day. Today is a day for revelry and rest.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We come back to the split party in Nymora, both of which are having very different experiences at the moment. On the one hand, Zechs, Galahad, and Glad try to unlock clues as to the motive, method, and anything the Drakewood Travelers might have left behind at the bank before heading to explore the underground network underneath the Vitalis estate. Galahad and Glad can tell that Zechs’ mind is racing and he’s trying to keep himself busy, but the sight that he sees down in “The Vineyard” while empty leaves a lasting impression. There’s a lot of Kyver’s story that now has a sense of tangibility, and everyone’s hearts are a bit heavier for having seen this place, just 100 feet or so below Nymora this whole time. Salix, Arguile, Shanks, and Hoshino are currently exploring ways to lure out this “Fat Arguile” and have a friendly battle of words with him. They even have a caterer for the event, by the way of “The Murky Armadillo”. Eventually, while making this plan, they meet Fat Arguile and agree to have this rap battle that very evening. Further preparations are made with the owner, Sen, and they will have an epic rap battle (and baked goods) just hours away!

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick up with the other half of the team: Salix, Arguile, Shanks, and Hoshino. The group gathers at Zechs' parents' home, where Zechs reads the letter from Agatha Vitalis. There's a weight in the room and unease as the group splits. Zechs asks if they can go to Kyver's family home and see if he visited them, and maybe get answers (and confirmations) as to who is with him. On the way, Arguile is stopped by supposed fans of him asking to get his autograph and say his catchphrase "Stay Crunchy!". There's some confusion and discussion of what to do with Arguile's new alternate. Arriving at the Sabertooth farm, they find his parents safe and thrilled to meet more of Kyver's friends. They eventually find their way over to the Church of Elrin to talk to Rev and find information on what's been happening in Nymora since they last spoke. We end with the crew planning a freestyle battle to determine who indeed is the best Arguile.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 14, “Under the Web”. How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Written, Read, and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Theme Music written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zechs, Galahad, and Hoshino finish the hunt and take what they need while providing the rest as offerings and food for those in need. The following day, the party begins to gather their things from the tavern, pick up their custom items from the Brass Jackalope, and board the airship back to Nymora. It’s there that the group comes upon a shocking scene: The Vitalis estate has been burned to the ground and is surrounded by the city guard. Zechs, Galahad, and Glad go to find out what’s going on and see if Kyver perhaps had anything to do with it. Upon asking questions, a guard informs Zechs, who is using his status as a bounty hunter, to speak with Lt. Flash. He would be able to provide more information. The trio goes, and Zechs leaves Duo there to survey the area and keep watch in the meantime. The other half of the team goes to Zechs’ parents' place and checks in on them to see how they are doing. Lt. Flash carefully provides the trio with his thoughts on the situation, and Zechs explains that he is one of the lost children and that he is currently a bounty hunter. He further explains that his bounty, Kyver, may have been responsible and offers to help in his capture. The Lt. appreciates the tenacity and says very plainly to Zechs that while he officially can’t tell him that he can look through the wreckage, he can say that if he doesn’t get caught, then it’s fine by him. They are informed about a group matching the descriptions of We’ahqa, Cereius, Shanks, and someone who looked a lot like Zechs, but shorter and more stout by comparison. They figure that it must be Kyver posing as Zechs, and are skeptical but suspect that somehow Rig is alive and posing as Shanks. On their way back to his childhood home, Duo informs Zechs that he has a letter addressed to him waiting for him. They finally arrive at Zechs’ family home and get filled in on more details from Zechs’ parents, and Seti hands him the letter they received a few days earlier. The letter sends a chill down Zechs’s spine, and he tries to wrap his head around just what Agatha Vitalis could want from him. They decide to split up and look into the matter of these Drakewood Travels. This might not be just a quick pit stop for the group after all.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up in the tavern with the party and The Journeyman. Individual conversations are had between JM and Salix, Galahad, and Shanks on a varying array of topics. Salix was given an apology for JM’s actions. Galahad and JM discussed The Constable’s affinity for Zechs and the situation that led Zechs to the Feywild. Shanks got some advice and clarity on some situations with the help of JM. Later on, we get some bonding from Zechs, Galahad, and Hoshino in the training room downstairs. Hoshino informs the two of a bit of his backstory, and Galahad suggests to Zechs that a hunt might be in order if he indeed wants to connect with Solonar. Preparations are made, and the three of them head into the forest to hunt an elk. Hoshino and Galahad are informed to keep an eye on Zechs’ bloodlust lust and they manage to track their prey into a clearing.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Making a stop in The Heartwood, the group does some shopping and gathers up some new gear for their journey ahead. They meet an Eladrin elf who is the proprietor of a shop named The Brass Jackalope. There, they come to a deal with the shop owner on several items, but in particular, the vial arrows that Attros had made for the group. Agreements for that and some other custom items are made, and as they step outside, they come upon a very familiar tavern to everyone except for Hoshino. There they are greeted by new staff, Ara the bartender & Nedy the cook. They notice the absence of Welby and Chico and are eventually greeted by the Journeyman. JM explains what’s been happening since they last saw the group, introductions are made between Hoshino and JM, and Salix is visibly upset by their lack of communication and care with the group. Things are explained, Welby has since retired after a traumatic event, Chico now runs the tavern in Balazar, and the group receives updates on JM’s OTHER party they are currently working with. The group also catches JM up on what has transpired over the time they have not seen each other. Hoshino is blown away by the information and is then rocked by the idea that he can return to his own time.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There, the party is informed that only 2 may enter and speak with Amina, so Zechs and Shanks go. In their discussion, Amina tells Zechs many things about himself, his past, and his situation. She informs them that Nymora is safe for his parents to go back to and that Kyver is safe as well. In exchange for her help and a piece of the root of the Heartwood to complete upgrades to Galahad’s armor, she asks if they can do two things. One, stop the cult known as the Web of Fate in Invenas, and the second, find out what is happening in the Glasmeda Isles to Quon’s land and people. They agree and are sent off on their way that evening. Zechs is left with one last warning before his departure. Don’t trust the Church of Elrin. Later that evening, they arrive to be transported with Quon, and by way of transport via plants spell, come into Invenas. There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 13, “Welcome to Invenas”. How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse 

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III 

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When we last were with our adventurers, they surveyed the area where the machine was and took stock of what they found. There were remnants of a fight that transpired, and based on the dome's disappearance, they surmised that the machine was temporarily out of commission. There was some back and forth on whether or not to leave a way to access the machine, but they concluded that leaving a transportation circle that Zechs' bow provided was the best solution. They made it back to Cordell and the Swift Hummingbird and discussed the next steps. Galahad and Zechs filled the captain in… on everything. Leaving her with a bottle of alcohol and lots of mindblowing information. They propose that they use the Swift Hummingbird to be the vessel for their quests while in Sloane, but Hoshino must include the captain and crew in whatever story he is writing about them. With newly agreed-upon terms, they remove the previous circle on the ship and set a path to the Heartwood. This is just the beginning of their time in Sloane and the next part of their journey. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The team is led by their animal guide to the beginning of the dome. Initially, they come across a deserted town and plants shaped like Grippli. They begin to investigate and try to assess what happened here. They are uncertain of how much time they have before any strange occurrences happen to them, but realize that the dome has dropped. The barrier that was distorting the land and magic has miraculously vanished. They decide to hurry towards the machine and scout around it. Coming upon it, they see recent scorch marks and try to assess what may have caused it, and try to find the people responsible. They realize that this machine is down and will remain down for at least a little while, buying them the necessary time to coordinate an attack to take them all out at once. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the seventh episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Joe (Arguile), and Hutch (Shanks) discuss and come up with the lore surrounding the city-state of Nakoroa. Over the course of the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the northern city.

VO: Joseph Ramirez, Eric Hutchison

Edited and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the other side of the city, Zechs meets with a family whose daughter had a very similar story to Kyver’s. Later, back at Zechs’ family home, they reconvene and discuss their day’s findings. Arguile, Galahad, and Voyas piece together a story from olden times and its connection to Arguile’s rapier. After dinner, Zechs uses Speak with Plants to commune through his home in the trees of Nymora, connected to the Heartwood, and thus hears from Amina, the current Arbitor, that she was expecting them. The party decided to shift their plans to make their way towards Amina and the Heartwood in a few days once an airship was available to take them. Arguile and Shanks were tasked with staying behind to watch for their possible tail and ensure the safety of Zechs’ parents. Galahad was tasked with bringing back a piece of the root of the Heartwood in exchange for enchanting his armor. Shanks has another conversation with Elrin and agreed via contract to help unlock elements of his bow, Mind’s Eye, in exchange for removing certain targets from a list that Elrin would provide. The rest of the party arranges for travel on a luxury airship, where Zechs reveals the disturbing occurrence he had on the way to the library, just days before. He makes the connection between a childhood memory, the cults, and the sacrifices. Galahad uses his divine sense and discovers an aspect of the god Malar within Zechs. While on a stakeout, Shanks and Arguile have an in-depth history lesson on Shanks' time with Rig and the S8. Afterwards, they find an individual of interest and decide to look into and tail.

There’s so much happening, and we pick up with arc 12, “Not What They Seem”. How will the rest of this story unfold? Find out next time on the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse 

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III 

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let’s take a trip. No, but seriously, let’s take a trip. Galahad, Arguile, Zechs, Salix, and eventually Shanks all take a drug-induced trip for varying reasons. Some seek clarity, while others seek resolution and confirmation. For some, they got what they were looking for, comfort in the gods or their decisions. For some, however, they got more questions than they did answers. All while being led deeper into the forest by a primate with extra limbs that grew to lengths they should not have grown to. There was group bonding and shenanigans, but what else is new with the Collateral crew?

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the group ventures closer to the machine, they decide to make camp for the night. During this time, they split their watch with Shanks and Arguile taking the first watch. Their conversation deals with mistakes and how they deal with them, learn from them, and how they respond to those who continue to make the same mistakes over and over again. They talk briefly about their mutual patron, Elrin, and the gifts he’s bestowed on them both. They also discuss how different the group’s moral compasses are and how that’s changed and will continue to change as they go further toward their shared goals. On the next watch, Salix takes their time with Duo and does some training, which proves fun and useful for them. The last watch is with Galahad and Zechs, who discuss faith and the difference between knowing your god and believing in your god. Galahad helps Zechs better understand how to connect with Solonar.

The next morning, the group decides to best use their time and the surrounding area. Duo is tasked with getting a smaller creature of this land to be their guide, without causing it harm. Salix and Shanks gather various fauna and materials for their creations. Galahad tasks Shanks (and Zechs) to get an elk for them to make a meal of. They are successful, though they struggle to bring such a large beast back to camp. Duo is also successful and brings back a very frightened monkey that Zechs tries to calm down.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party, given recent events, decides to use Zechs’ conjure animal spells to become familiar with aerial battle. Shanks spends some more time thinking about the information he received from Hoshino’s legend lore spell. Quon and the party exchange updates about what they should expect upon arriving on the Isles. However, what they see is a situation far beyond what they could have imagined. The machines are doing a tremendous amount of harm to the surrounding areas in which they reside. The group devises a plan for approaching the machine and assessing how their skills may be hindered by the magical disturbances due to the machines. Shanks reveals that he has been bestowed with another gift from his patron, Elrin. All this and more as they finally make their way to the machine on the Glasmeda Isles.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the sixth episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Law (Zechs), and Tone (Galahad) discuss and come up with the lore surrounding Terran Ridge. Over the course of the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the mountain communities.

VO: Thomas Lapierre III, Antonio Perez, Lawrence Bentiné Jr

Edited and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As they enter a scrapyard of gargantuan metal Warforged, the party is greeted by a powder blue female Tiefling bard, who has been expecting them. Three other figures appear: a female Aasimar Paladin, a male Loxodon Cleric, and The Constable, who informs them that he just wants Thai. Memories of their first introduction to Strahd, the night they lost Ireena flash, and the group refuses to comply. Shanks takes the first shot and triggers a quick and intense volley; before long, they are pincered. Put into an impossible situation, Thai gives himself up, and in an instant, they all disappear.

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We start with Zechs checking in on Shanks and having a heart-to-heart about what their future holds and the guilt they both carry for things in their lives up to this point. Salix reaches out to the Daughter of the Void for some insight and confirmation that they’re deserving of the gifts they received. Zechs takes a moment to reach out to Qho, Kivela, and Cenari, who all have varying information for their brother and warnings for what they are experiencing across the planes. When the group decides to cast the Legend Lore spell on The Constable and his machines, the information provides even more questions for the group. Galahad informs the group that the Dragonborn that is allied with Antonius is, in fact, the legendary Iron Nimbus Vulsir. He goes into detail on how one becomes a Drulcas and what that means to the people of Dragonborn Valley. They start to get the scale of what they are in for when that day arrives to stop them both. He also confirms the other heralds of Tiamat, at least what he knows of them. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We find the party in the aftermath of their fight. Everyone is taking stock of the damage sustained and the repairs needed to the airship. Shanks gets the full backstory on why Salix has major issues with dragons and their kind. It’s a tale of love, betrayal, and more. It paints a picture of just why something so simple as having the bow they carry unnerves them. Arguile spends time on the top part of the ship, getting familiar with the ropes as he thinks about his little trip off the airship. Zechs and Arguile have an exchange about Arguile’s guild and why he doesn’t speak of them with the same fondness that Zechs has for his guild. Hoshino asks the group to gather around so they can do another Legend Lore spell. This trip gives them time to learn more about each other than they had previously, but all the while reminds them about the immense number of eyes that are looking upon the group. They are more and more aware that they have more than one invested interest in their group.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and Read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up in the midst of the party, fighting the blue dragon and storm elementals. Galahad has now attached himself to the dragon, who has begun to dive bomb at top speed. Meanwhile, Arguile gets knocked off the airship, and Zechs sends Duo immediately after him. Galahad, being strapped to the dragon, begins to unleash divine punishment, eventually killing the dragon. Arguile and Galahad are met with a giant eagle to their rescue, and a very nervously excited Duo giving a playback of events to Zechs. After all of this, Galahad's new fairy dragon friend reveals that they are the goddess Hlal. The two have a lengthy exchange, and with that, she reverts to a fairy dragon. After quite the day, the party finally rests.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party continues its journey on the skyship. Galahad makes a new friend in the form of a fairy dragon and arranges a new deal with the ship’s captain regarding Zechs’ new art project. On the horizon, the clouds begin to gather, and lightning begins to crack. They are in for a fight with a blue dragon! As they prepare as best as they can, Galahad confirms that this is somehow related to Tiamat, which is not reassuring to the paladin. They brace themselves as the dragon and air elementals seem to have the party in their sights. This battle in the skies may prove more troublesome than they thought. Will they survive?

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written and Read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The group makes its final preparations for the next leg of its journey. Shanks and Salix continue tweaking the Elven Speed, making the most of their time on this long trek. Hoshino performs the spell “Legend Lore” with the group for Arguile’s “Guardian’s Rapier”.

“The Guardian's Rapier is a rose of thorns, once held by Ÿbo, who plucked it from the heart of her people's betrayal. Gerviss, the Void Dragon, served as her shield and companion on her journey. But the rapier's true potential remains dormant, buried beneath layers of thorns, waiting for the one who possesses the courage to navigate its twists and turns. Yet, be warned, for in the center of the rose lies a seed of both light and dark, a seed that could bloom into a flower of beauty or a weed of destruction. Choose your path wisely, for the thorns will cut deep and the consequences will echo far.”

Their ally Quon informs them of strange things happening to his homeland and fears that perhaps it is too late. The group also finally takes the time to fill in Hoshino (and Salix) on the history of the party and what they would have missed before joining the group. While talking, Zechs and Hoshino discover that Zechs’ bow, “Jack of All Trades,” has altered. There are several attempts to discover the new features of his bow with very limited success.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last time we saw our heroes finishing their night of relaxation with a show from the bard, Rosco. While the majority of the group talks and drinks with the bard, we find Zechs sitting towards the front of the venue, lost in thought. A heartfelt conversation is had between Zechs and Hoshino, and afterward, the group splits and sees where the night takes them. That evening, Hoshino has a conversation with the Daughter of the Weave, and we learn a bit more about the man out of time. He also learns a lot about his compatriots and feels this group's pain even before coming together. Come morning, back at Zechs' parents' place, we learn it is his 34th birthday. A surprise breakfast banquet is made, and some celebration is held. Some of the group make their way toward the airship "The Swift Hummingbird" and settle arrangements for travel while Hoshino and Arguile retrieve items deemed necessary for safe travels. Shanks gets some insight from the Light of Elrin.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Despite his better judgment, we learn that Argo has gone off to see his old friend and ally Antonius. The group also deals with the ramifications of their seemingly harmless prank with Shanks. It’s revealed that Shanks has been struggling with his mental state for quite some years, and it all came to the surface with the party over breakfast. After a long exchange between Shanks, Zechs, Salix, and Glad, the party hugs it out and disperses to do some last-minute shopping for tonight’s outing. While at the venue, the party has an exchange of cultures and drinks. There is never a short amount of bonding over drinks with this crew. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the fifth episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Frim (Hoshino/Bosco), and Ty (Thai/Voyas) discuss and come up with the lore surrounding the Rowly Keys. Over the course of the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the island community.

VO: Thomas Lapierre III, Frimmer Starstone, and Mul_Ty

Edited and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The party finds their time in Nymora very reminiscent of their time in Granz City just after their defeat of Strahd. There is a lot of planning for the next stages. There are a lot of revelries. Some pranks and lots of drinking were involved. The party splits up, and while half go shopping for ways to improve Shanks’ elven speed, the other half looks to acquire an airship for their trip to help their ally, Quon. During this time, the group is reminded of just how much Hoshino doesn’t know and adds more to their list of things to tell him at a later time. They meet with Aura back on the cruise ship to kill some time, have some drinks, and make plans for the evening to see Nymora’s nightlife scene. Shanks and Salix acquired materials for their creations and some information from Torbera about the incursion that happened. There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Upon the return to Nymora, the group picks up a tail. A mysterious figure approaches them and relays some pertinent information to the party, a human woman who informs the party that JM is safe and running with a slightly different company. They will reconvene at another time. Galahad and Shanks have a drinking contest that ends with Galahad as the victor and Hoshino with a great tale to tell. Zechs contacts Argo with the help of Glad, who tells him that he said “not to worry and everything is fine,” which immediately has him worried, and he knows full well that everything, in fact, is not fine. With Glad’s help again, he speaks to Natasha, Argo’s second in command, and learns that Argo is en route to talk some sense into his friend and brother-in-arms, Antonius. Zechs informs a very buzzed Galahad, and they discuss what this could mean for their mentors and for the path that lies ahead for everyone. We finish with Galahad getting some clarity on a number of things from Bahamut. It’s a troublesome road ahead, but at least they’ll have each other. Right?

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the fourth episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Law (Zechs), and Joe (Arguile) discuss and come up with the lore surrounding Gamsby, Mechfall. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the Artisan Metropolis.

VO: Thomas Lapierre, Lawrence Bentiné Jr., and Joseph Ramirez

Edited and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stay tuned for the next part of our Arc Recaps… “The Curse of Strahd”. Enjoy!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pick back up with the party returning to Nymora. The signs of the incursion are nowhere to be found, and Zechs’ parents are unpacking their things as they’ve just returned as well. With a piece of the root of the Heartwood, Galahad makes haste, as he will be without his armor for some time and needs to make arrangements. Hoshino recalls his time in Nymora several ages ago and tries to gather some information on an old friend of his, Ice on the Lake. Zechs and Salix decide to look up some family history as well, while the rest of the party chooses to do a little shopping and trading of gear. Shanks gets his freshly enchanted elven saber, and all seems right with the team. A very needed day of respite given the few days they’ve had. They cherish it while they can, because, with Collateral, peace seems to always feel short-lived.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last time, we find ourselves with the team giving the Stone of Revival to Amina. In this exchange, she reminds them that she also asked them to help aid Quon and his people in the Glasmeda Isles. It’s also determined that Hoshino is not cursed, not in the sense that can be removed via the Remove Curse spell. While this brings a sense of relief to the party, they have more questions for their new ally. Salix is told that their hut is still intact, and the party agrees to stop and visit it on their way up north. Amina lets Zechs know that Nymora is safe, and they are sent back to see just that. The wreckage of the machines that Arguile and Shanks saw is nowhere to be found.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the third episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Tone (Galahad), and Frim (Hoshino) discuss and come up with the lore surrounding Zur Algud. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the Dragon City. 

VO: Thomas Lapierre III, Antonio Perez, and Frimmer Starstone

Edited and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stay tuned for the next part of our Arc Recaps… “On the Edge”. Enjoy!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the second episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Law (Zechs), and Sebastian (Kyver) discuss and come up with the lore surrounding Nymora. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the Tabaxi city.

VO: Thomas Lapierre III, Law Bentiné Jr, and Sebastian Bonet

Edited and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Through some deceit and a revivify spell, they gained a new ally, Chico. This, of course, did not happen without a rather uncomfortable exchange and series of bluffs towards Strahd, who appeared shortly after. While he lets them continue, he tells them he is aware of their comings and goings and that they are always being watched within his realm. The Cascade appears for them again, and they explain that Chico should be in the employ of the Tavern and not have the details of what really happened revealed to him. Some of the party received new gifts and items that they requested to help them on their journey ahead. An onyx blade handles for Kyver, a great sword for Galahad, and a saber for We'ahqa. JM takes the druidic staff that they found from We'ahqa for safekeeping, and the group plans their next course of action. They leave the tavern, meeting with Damian again, who shares his contempt towards Strahd. They inform him that they are indeed allies, and he informs them that they might find aid in Vallaki at the Blue Water Inn. The layers and layers of complexities just keep adding up, don’t they? 

Stay tuned for the next part of our Arc Recaps… “The Rig Situation”. Enjoy!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first episode of Across the Planes, Tom, Joe (Arguile), and Hutch (Shanks) discuss and come up with the lore surrounding Luxenburough. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the Elven city.

VO: Thomas Lapierre III, Joseph Ramirez, and Eric Hutchison

Edited and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As only hours pass for the party, 50 years pass for the Goliath. It was a time spent training his mind, body, and faith. Made better by a friend named Bothok, who he later realized was the avatar of his god, Bahamut. The party reconnects and attempts to escape, only to be trapped in some illusory field of The Constable’s design. A traumatic series of events transpires, leaving only Zechs to face off with The Constable. All of this happens as the party, one by one, awakens in water-filled tubes in another location. Eventually, they all manage to escape, but the events hit them all hard, some harder than most. JM gives them each something to aid them on their personal quests. A lot of questions, mixed emotions, and heavy drinking followed. Conversations are exchanged, and the party now has to pick up the pieces of the last few hours and finish their task at hand. Destroying Strahd and saving Barovia!

Stay tuned for the next part of our Arc Recaps… “The Task at Hand”. Enjoy!

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stay tuned for the next part of our Arc Recaps… “The Constable”. Enjoy!

Read by Antonio Perez, Eric Hutchison, and Thomas Lapierre III

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stay tuned for the next part of our Arc Recaps… “Try, Try Again”

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the arc recaps for Collateral Damage. This is not your typical adventure and certainly not your typical group of adventurers. Enjoy the tale.

Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Read by Antonio Perez, Eric Hutchison, and Thomas Lapierre III

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We come back to the story still in the bowels of the speakeasy “Twisted Antler”. Sage and Thai are putting more cards on the table with their current “situation”. It seems, however, that their information has some interest to more than the people in that room. Sage finds and dispels the orb that seems to hover closely around Thai. On the other side of the room, Bosco informs The Connusier of his current travels, and while the story seems intriguing, there is a desire for more than what the rogue is currently sharing. On both sides of these conversations, they speak about the idea of taking down Olmoz and the Infinity Bazaar. Oh, and more importantly, Thai is on the lamb, and Bosco is to be presumed “dead”. While Chava offers a place of refuge for the group, they are now certain that Olmoz has sent assassins after them. In fact, Olmoz pays Thai a visit in his dream, taunting the always confident Tabaxi. Thai wakes up in a cold sweat and informs Bosco and Sage of what transpired. A messenger delivers to the group a box with five gold coins bearing the mark of the Infinity Bazaar, further driving home the message that they are on Olmoz’s radar. They gather their things, use a psionic link to communicate, and put forth a plan in motion to lure out their would-be killers. Are they in over their heads? Is their plan doomed to fail? There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…

Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage!

Theme Music written and performed by The Floating Lighthouse 

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III 

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.