A Fox in the Dales

Background

The robbery of Radmila's teahouse in Milkrest has sparked gossip and mistrust amongst the locals. Recently, someone burglarized Radmila's teahouse, stealing valuables, tools, and personal items. Witnesses reported an unsettling shape creeping across the rooftops, fueling petty rumors and wild speculation. Most accuse Azeria, the wildling daughter of Radmila's late employee, Milorada Sionann, who has been behaving strangely for months and recently also vanished. THE RUEFUL ROBBER In recent months, Azeria started exhibiting unearthly abilities, and sorrow finally awakened her Twilight Kin nature. After her mother's death, the grief-stricken girl decided to uncover her mother's past and her own true origins. Desperate, and unwilling to show herself in public, she broke into Radmila's shop, taking coins, mementos, and tea-making utensils. A CHECKERED PAST Azeria's story begins with the secrets her mother kept. Milorada was the eldest daughter of the Cloudbornes, a wealthy family in Highglade (page 88). To their dismay, the wistful girl fell in love with Gajowy – a primal, vulpine Creature of Twilight. Following Azeria's birth, Milorada abandoned her home, realizing her family would harm the Twilight Kin child. She settled in Soddenmore (page 96), befriending the apothecary Bright-Tails and working for Lady Midday of the Kikimora Gang. She quickly fell out with the latter and fled to Milkrest, raising Azeria in relative peace under the surname Sionann until her recent death. PAST SINS, FUTURE TROUBLES Departing Milkrest, Azeria arrived at Soddenmore, retracing Milorada's footsteps. Meeting with Bright-Tails in the Lantern World, she learned of her origin and that Lady Midday was still keeping some of her mother's belongings. Donning the mask her mother used to wear, she stole back Milorada's mementos from Lady Midday, then continued on to Highglade and Cloudborne Croft. She now hides in Sionann Grove, an abandoned logging camp, where her parents originally met and fell in love. She plans to rob the Cloudbornes and avenge her mother, unaware of how truly dangerous her family is. Synopsis Synopsis The adventure begins with a Mystery in Milkrest, in which the Heroes are asked to investigate the burglary of Radmila's teahouse. Witnesses blame a young girl, Azeria, the “cursed” daughter of Milorada, an employee of Radmila's who recently died. Clues at the scene tell a stranger story and lead the Heroes to Soddenmore. Twilight Kin Azeria is Twilight Kin, the child of human and Fallen Leaf blood. Her body now exhibits inhuman characteristics, such as fox ears and a tail. In addition, she's manifested the ability to meld into shadows and possesses heightened senses. As Part of Wake of the Oldways This adventure explores the different aspects of Dalish society and the Dalish people's relationship with Creatures of Twilight. It also shows how the Oldways have kept under control some dangers within the Dales, not just those outside. Outside of Soddenmore, the Heroes hear A Tale at Starless Junction as they search for information about Milorada and Azeria. They are pointed to Bright-Tails, an apothecary in Soddenmore's Lantern World. As the Heroes walk around the Junction, they are met by two Stormhelm Knights in The Heroes navigate through the Shadows in the Lantern World, Soddenmore's colorful night market, to find Bright-Tails while avoiding the Kikimora Gang, criminals with a score to settle with Azeria. When they meet Bright-Tails, they learn of Milorada's tragic past and Azeria's parentage, and that Azeria has now headed to Highglade. In A Family Secret, the Heroes arrive at Cloudborne Croft, the home of Milorada's estranged family, and learn that more of Milorada's personal items have been stolen. The Cloudbornes, however, consider Azeria a shameful secret, and are not forthcoming with information about her. In The Fox's Den, following a tip from a sympathetic Cloudborne, the Heroes find Azeria's hideout, Sionann Grove. In this abandoned logging camp, they contend with her, her father, and the Cloudbornes, who want to eliminate Azeria once and for all. At the Corner of the Eye Throughout the adventure, vaguely sprinkle in some of the following motifs: • The feeling of being watched • Shadows of inhuman creatures • Flashing golden eyes • A tuft of fur left behind Downplay these as figments of the Heroes' imaginations or quick-to-dismiss tricks of the eye. If the Heroes successfully investigate, they may discover the information under The Lingering Shadow. Hooks • One or more of the Heroes are Radmila's friends or relatives, and she asks for their assistance with the recent robbery. She's also concerned for her late friend's missing daughter. • One of the important letters sent to Walric from An Important Letter is from Radmila, describing an unsettling turn of events at the tea shop and asking for help. Walric asks the Heroes to go in his stead. • A Red Marshal associate asks the Fellowship to assist Radmila in their stead, while they handle 'more serious' matters elsewhere. • The Heroes divine the presence of a mysterious Creature of Twilight in Milkrest and discover their involvement with the burglary at Radmila's store. For Fear of Winter. The Lingering Shadow Unknown to Azeria, her father Gajowy has been watching her throughout her life, and has sensed her awakening to her true Twilight Kin nature. Gajowy's Challenge Profile is on page 360. Gajowy is trying to track her down, just like the Heroes. Believing Azeria was all alone at Radmila's teahouse after her mother's death, he broke in to “rescue” her, not realizing he was already a step behind his swift daughter. Despite his love for his daughter, Gajowy knows well that if he intervenes openly, the Dalespeace will be his undoing (Lady's Hem, page 193), and so he follows the Heroes throughout the adventure in lockstep, always keeping out of sight. However, he is adamant about ensuring her safety and her freedom. If the Heroes discover him and then move to confront him, he flees. If they somehow succeed, he can share the same information as Bright-Tails does in A Vixen's Tears (page 355).

Mystery In Milkrest

The wind that sweeps through the Milkrest's steep passages hums like an unruly goat pen, all ripe scents and raucous voices. There's an undeniable charm to the village's cedar homes and covered streets, even though visitors are likely to complain about this mountainous settlement's many climbs and flights of stairs. Despite the constant winds coming down from the Milken Crest, an earthy aroma of cheesemaking and goat musk clings to everything – nutty, smoky, and sour. Your purpose draws you across the communal square, toward a modest two-story building. Outwardly, its idyllic façade doesn't resemble the theft-ravaged store you've been informed of. Above the door, an elegantly painted sign announces Radmila's Teahouse. A knot of villagers linger outside the shop, chattering and gossiping about the recent crime. Stepping inside, an impressive goat bell announces your arrival. Orderly shelves and tables are arranged with tea sets, towels, small cheeses, and foodstuffs. The air is thick with scents, smoke, and spices. A rotund woman emerges from the back, wiping her petite hands on a cross-stitched apron. Her radiant smile lights the entire store. “Welcome. I've just brewed a fresh pot. Can I get you a cup of herbal tea? Do you take it with milk?” Without waiting for confirmation, she sets out steaming cups of black tea and a plate of shortbread cookies. In this scene, the Heroes arrive in the village of Milkrest to visit Radmila Sparrowkin, having already been informed of the burglary. Radmila welcomes the Heroes to her humble store, answers their questions, and shows them around. Kindly and well-figured, Radmila has lived in Milkrest most of her forty years. Her tongue is sharp and her heart generous. Too generous, many say – out of earshot. Widowed in her late twenties, she's driven off all suitors, focusing on her 'less vexing' love – tea. Figuring Out What Happened The stolen items include coins, old jewelry, and tea-making utensils, some minor, some more valuable. The utensils possess deep sentimental value, having been inherited through her late husband's family. • The stolen jewelry used to belong to Milorada Sionann, a former employee, who'd passed away from pneumonia merely two weeks ago. The jewels were originally given as collateral for Milorada's lodging in the teahouse, the woman having arrived at Milkrest several years ago with her daughter Azeria. Radmila held on to the jewelry to return to Azeria; however, the young girl disappeared after her mother's death. Radmila believes the girl is responsible for the robbery and is both worried and heartbroken for her. • Besides Milorada's jewelry, several mementos of hers were taken. One is an old wooden fox mask that Milorada treated with unusual respect, hanging it on her bedroom's wall. • A Hero who asks for details about the mask might be able to figure out that it is one of those used by the hidden patrons of the Lantern World in Soddenmore. EVIDENCE OF BURGLARY As Radmila shows the Heroes around, Heroes can take action to discover additional evidence: • The culprit broke through the horn-paneled window on the upper floor. Claw marks cover the exterior sill and rooftop, as if made by an animal – this has contributed to the rumors in the village about Azeria being cursed. • The room used by Milorada and Azeria was on the first floor, next to the kitchen. Heroes who investigate can realize the lock to the kitchen's rear door was picked, and that all the stolen items were removed from the room with a careful hand. Despite this, a trunk is pushed aside, and a bed sheet is torn. • A Hero who tries to paint a bigger picture can realize there are signs of two break-ins, probably occurring within a short while of each other, the same night. The first burglar was skillful, came through the kitchen, and knew what to take. The second was violent and seemed to search around with haste. • Radmila is unaware there were two break-ins. She was alerted by the sound of the window shattering. RUMORS IN THE VILLAGE The most repeated rumor is that on the night of the robbery, people witnessed an inhuman shadow on Radmila's roof. Otherwise, gossip about Milorada and Azeria rarely casts the pair in a positive light, as the rugged people of Milkrest aren't easy to please. • The two seemed to have genuinely charitable natures, but Milorada never seemed at ease. They never seemed to truly settle in Milkrest, and so the villagers merely tolerated them. • When the rare peddler arrived from Soddenmore or Highglade, Milorada made herself scarce, acting frightened, or maybe guilty. • Azeria was an unusual, yet capable and cunning child. Last autumn, she started acting suspiciously, hiding herself under a hooded cloak. Various rumors began to circulate. • The only time Milorada yelled at Azeria involved catching the young girl playing with her mom's elegant fox mask that she used to keep on her wall. Putting these clues together, the Heroes should surmise that Azeria likely went to Soddenmore, making this the most logical next stop, leading to A Tale at Starless Junction. Consider offering a Vignette or two from the Travel on Dalish Roads Journey (page 268), and perhaps also from Morose Mire (CBII 150), as the Heroes approach soggy Soddenmore.

A Tale At Starless Junction

The Dalish have several sayings about Soddenmore, and none of them are cheerful. Starless Junction, a causeway overlooking Soddenmore Village that stretches from foggy horizon to foggy horizon, attempts to defy this atmosphere, offering a welcome relief from the Dale's drenched landscape and the bog's dead air. Colored tents and vibrant stalls sprout like mushrooms from the crossroad's rocky ground, contrasted against the perpetually gray skies. Peddlers and travelers from distant Dales sit around warm fires, offering spiced drinks and vibrant stories to friend and stranger alike. In this scene, the Heroes arrive in Starless Junction, close on Azeria's heels, and gather their next lead is in the Lantern World. Asking Around Heroes can hear gossip and useful rumors over a game of dice, gathered around a fire with other travelers, helping a merchant unload heavy barrels from an ox-cart, or during other activities. The Junction is a hub of gossip, but the people are likely to ask for something in return (short-on-coin-1), either as bribe or with a “buy something, first”. The Heroes' actions to discover clues may also attract the attention of the Kikimoras (Exposure) or of others in Soddenmore's underworld (Brutal Outlaw, CBII 131). • Mindful Milorada was a troublemaker famous for hounding the band of cruel outlaws, the Kikimoras. She hid her identity behind a fox mask; no one's sure who she was. • Most believe that Mindful Milorada was drowned for defying the leader of the Kikimoras, Lady Midday. This happened about ten winters ago. • Whoever the new thief is, they're wearing Mindful Milorada's old fox mask. Some say it's her spirit, who has returned to once more protect the downtrodden from the Kikimora Gang. • The thief appeared only once, stealing from Lady Midday's personal belongings. All are united by a desire to settle their business in the area, and to avoid stepping into the village itself. Rumors are traded like precious baubles here. Currently, the shiniest is of Mindful Milorada – an old trickster recently returned from the dead. The fox-faced brigand has been tormenting the Kikimora Gang with her mischief and thievery, and each retelling sounds grander than before, bordering on fable and fancy. Some daring individuals have painted fox graffiti on walls and storefronts throughout Soddenmore, defiant of the gang. For more concrete information, the Heroes are directed to Shozauka Baba, the lady from the eel stall. She is said to know Mindful Milorada's real identity. WAIT, WHERE'S MY...? If your Heroes prefer running over talking, then the market kid Bait might attempt to steal something from one of them (page 97, use Nimble Pickpocket, CBII 162). He doesn't usually steal, but the spring season brings around many new travelers, and it would be a shame to miss such an opportunity. When caught, Bait returns the stolen item and offers his sincere apology; he expected the Heroes to be more naive. As professional courtesy, the young entrepreneur offers to answer some questions about Mindful Milorada, as he heard the Heroes ask about her. He knows everything listed above and can point the Heroes to Shozauka Baba. OTHER ACTIVITIES AT STARLESS JUNCTION Starless Junction offers an opportunity for an interesting camping scene. In addition, many travelers pass through the Junction, so the Heroes can meet colorful characters such as a Shrewd Merchant (CBII 133), get into a situation with a Tavern Lark (CBII 165), or meet a Curse Eater (page 264). At Shozauka Baba's Seemingly older than Soddenmore itself, Shozauka Baba (page 97) is said to know Mindful Milorada's full story, past and present. Shozauka is tight-lipped-2 because, while she did know Milorada personally, she doesn't actually know who the new thief is (she is surprised to no end by the suggestion it could be Azeria) and doesn't want anyone to suspect this fact. Having been helped by Milorada, she has a soft spot for her and her daughter, and once convinced that the Heroes have the girl's best interests at heart (Quick action), she informs them of the following. • When Milorada first arrived in Soddenmore more than ten winters ago, she seemed to be running away from something and found work with Lady Midday as a member of the Kikimora Gang. Azeria was just a baby then. • The young mother's kind nature got the best of her, soon defying Lady Midday's ruthless orders and instead helping the Kikimora's victims. She earned the moniker “Mindful Milorada” around Soddenmore; the fox mask was actually a later addition, but it made her famous, with most people not realizing Milorada is her actual name. • Although most believe she was drowned for her defiance, Shozauka confirms Milorada escaped with Azeria to Milkrest ten winters ago. In exchange for assurances (and buying plenty of eels), Shozauka Baba points the Heroes to Bright-Tails, who was very close to Milorada. The eccentric apothecary lives in the Lantern World (page 97). Shozauka can arrange for Bait to lead them into the notorious district (making for a fun moment if the Fellowship already met him). He helps them choose animal masks, explaining the customs of that place. Bait might be a tag if the Fellowship earns his respect or pays him well. REWARDS Finally, Shozauka provides the Fellowship with an ornate fox amulet. “This was Milly's last gift to me. Pass it to her little girl.” An Oldways practitioner examining the amulet can tell it provides some protection against being seen or watched, but it isn't a familiar Oldways design. Continue to For Fear of Winter, or skip to Shadows in the Lantern World. For Fear of Winter While in Starless Junction, the Heroes are stopped by two inquisitive knights from Stormhelm – the dashing, broad-shouldered Knight (Dythara) Lowtower and the grave and lithe Knight (Justine) Tanner (Stormhelm Knight, page 267). According to them, the Winter King's forces are on the move in the far north, and the knights have been sent to the Dales to seek out his agents, unspeakable monsters who must be caught. They turn to many of the newcomers to the Junction, willing to pay for information that will lead them to their quarry. If the Heroes crossed paths with agents of the Winter King in other adventures, they can tell the knights what they know, or lie. In either case, the knights give them some extra coin (hefty-purse-1). However, if the Heroes are caught lying or refuse to divulge more information, or if they are caught in a lie, the knights promise they'll remember their faces (marked-3). Continue to Shadows in the Lantern World. Lore Revelation F Stormhelm, a city north of the Dales, is locked in a struggle with the Winter King.

Shadows In The Lantern World

Beyond Soddenmore's rickety boardwalks and moldering hovels, there exists an ethereal realm of wild hues and primal glows. The flickering lights of paper lanterns dance in amusing, sometimes frightening shapes of the painted animal masks worn by all, as few wish to be known here. This is the Lantern World, where everything has a price – some steeper than others. Brushing shoulders with grinning cats and frowning ravens, your senses riot with spice and smoke, mirth and calls. Wolves and deer tend to small stalls loaded with rare fruits filling reed baskets; taboo varieties of dried fish and meat hang from tin hooks; stolen charms and trinkets hang from shelves; exotic treasures glitter and beckon. So many unrecognized scents, such unusual sights – countless dark miracles contend for your attention. Within moments, you've been swallowed up by this place. Even the night sky above fades, obscured by canopies and ornate signs. Behind your masks, you feel the wicked tingle of excitement, for little is forbidden here, where desires stride free of fear or shame. The perfect place to find buried secrets and perform some new misdeeds. In this scene, the Heroes enter the Lantern World searching for information from Bright-Tails. They might suspect Azeria recently stole something from the dangerous Kikimora Gang, and they therefore might also be looking for Azeria, probably while attempting to avoid the Kikimora's attention, or perhaps seeking it, if they are truly brave. THROUGH THE SPIRIT GATES The Lantern World squirms its way through Soddenmore's back streets and forgotten spaces. Blocked off and hidden, it is only accessible via spirit gates, discreet kiosks secreted in affiliated buildings. The Faceless, master artisans who craft the infamous masks, sometimes provide naive newcomers with comical masks, tagging them as rubes to be fleeced (marked-1); Red Marshal accoutrements get marked-2. The status hinders reactions to lessen the Lantern World Consequences, to the right and below. Traversing the Marketplace As the Heroes look for Bright-Tails (A Vixen's Tears, below), the Kikimora Gang, or Azeria herself, they can encounter the following Vignettes. A CHANCE ENCOUNTER A sparrow-masked person approaches you with hurried steps, demanding your attention with a shrill voice. They slap you, having mistaken you for their cheating lover, and now weep over their broken heart (bruised-1 and embarrassed-2). They claim they have mistaken you for someone else, and you fail to notice their partner's hand sneaking into your bag (scratch an item tag). They take your mask off (Exposure), then apologize, having realized they got the wrong person. MESMERIZED The market's dreamlike sights and sounds overwhelm your senses, with so many tempting vices on offer. You're swept up in an enchanting dance and then abandoned, left feeling dejected-1 and tired-1. You share a fervent kiss with some stranger, who disappears before you can react (enamored-2). The thick aroma of exotic scents and biting smoke overwhelms you (hungry-1 or coughing-2). The Kikimoras Are Watching The Kikimoras are watching newcomers who approach their affiliated grifters or who ask about the fox-masked robber. If the Heroes seek them, or haven't been subtle in asking questions about Azeria or Milorada, and attempt to intimidate the Heroes to answer questions. If the Kikimoras come to believe the Fellowship are in league with the thief, they intimidate the Heroes to follow them, or even attack to subdue. The Heroes are then taken to Lady Midday (Outlaw Overlord, CBII 164, without the clothing and a fisherman's hat that symbolizes her position. She is a cruel leader with no patience. If the Heroes refuse to provide any clues to the thief's identity or location, or are fully uncooperative, they are beaten until overcome and thrown into the swamp. Otherwise, Lady Midday is willing to let them go, pointing them at Highglade as she knows this was Milorada's home, and ordering them to bring her back the stolen items within two weeks, or else “nowhere in the Dales will you be safe” (marked-3). A Vixen's Tears Nestled between two larger buildings, A Vixen's Tears apothecary gleams bright. Colored lanterns frame its serene storefront, painting the world in saffron and scarlet. You dip your head as you step under the curtained door into the cramped space beyond. Ceramic jars decorate textured walls, alongside curious tins and cloudy bottles. A medicinal aroma hangs heavy, accented with striking perfumes. Stacked barrels and baskets form an improvised counter, creating a divide between the front and the back room. “A moment, if you would?” comes a sing-song voice. An elegant head pops up from behind the counter. Even obscured by her hooded cloak, Bright-Tails' luminous eyes reflect the dim light. Strands of luxurious piebald hair – white and russet – frame her sharp features. She smiles toothily. “How may I help you this evening?” Bright-Tails remains polite, but reticent-3, until the Heroes prove their integrity. Eloquent and shrewd, she twists questions to gain more information than she gives (Exposure), as well as deflects by trying to sell her wares. She does not respond well to threats; read Bright-Tales in Action. Her cool demeanor soon cracks if Milorada is mentioned, revealing her sorrow over Milorada's death. two to three Brutal Outlaws (CBII 131) appear aspect), a slender woman wearing heavy SECOND-HAND SHOPPING You discover rare illicit goods of great use – but also an unclear past. Your purchase holds an unsavory past, which soon finds you (cursed-2 or marked-2). In your excitement, you pay far more than you should (short-on-coin-3). One of the merchants spots something you carry and begins to haggle (New Challenge: Shrewd Merchant, CBII 133). Bright-Tails in Action Bright-Tails reveals her Twilight Kin nature if hard-pressed, using powers similar to those of Azeria, (page 360), to disappear, and if needed, strike from the shadows. Core Revelation 2 Something that has protected the Dales from outside forces for centuries is waning. Lore Revelations E - There are many kinds of Creatures of Twilight, some dangerous and some helpful. K - Many Creatures of Twilight were once Children of Twilight (that's how they got their name), but they fell from grace because of their part in the War. What Bright-Tails Knows Over spiced tea, Bright-Tails confirms the following: • A few days ago, Azeria tried to rob the shop, specifically to steal family possessions Milorada left behind. Bright-Tails caught her, and Azeria revealed that she learned about Bright-Tails' connection to her mom from the fox mask. Read The Rueful Robber (page 348). • Bright-Tails shared with Azeria Milorada's story – read A Checkered Past (page 348). Milorada was a brave and clever trickster who saved Bright-Tails from Lady Midday's extortion and threats. • Azeria was shocked by these revelations. Bright-Tails offered her sanctuary here, but Azeria refused. Instead, she foolishly infiltrated Lady Midday's rooms to steal some more of her mother's memorabilia, then continued • Observant Heroes notice Bright-Tails' pained expression whilst talking about Gajowy. If pressed, she reveals she is also a daughter of Gajowy, although many decades older than Azeria. He was never in her life, and it seems the same is true for her much younger half-sister. Both Twilight Kin sisters exhibit vulpine features and uncanny powers, due to their blood. REWARDS For their willingness to come to Azeria's aid, Bright-Tails provides each Hero with a bottle of tonic (page 153), crafted in the manner of the Oldways. A fellow herbalist can even learn the recipe from her. She then whispers a final gift of fleeting-luck-1 to them, wishing them the best as they journey to Highglade and onto A Family Secret.

A Family Secret

on to Highglade, to her mother's birthplace of Cloudborne Croft. Considering what Milorada told Bright-Tails of those people, grave danger might be awaiting the headstrong girl. Read Past Sins, Future Troubles (page 348). If asked about Azeria's father, Bright-Tails becomes reticent-3 again. The things she knows, she would rather not share, as they are of personal or hidden nature. She can still be convinced to do so, but perhaps she will demand to first see Azeria safe again (Yes, But…). • Gajowy, as a Creature of Twilight, has the bestial nature of a fox. • Many Creatures of Twilight were once celestial beings, and their true name is the Children of Twilight. They fell from grace due to their part in the War of Thaumaturges. • Their progeny are called Twilight Kin by the Dalish and frequently gain supernatural qualities that can manifest at different times in their lives. • It seems many Creatures of Twilight avoid the Dales or keep a low profile, as if something is muting their powers. She's unsure what provides this protective aura, but its influence has been failing. This explains why Gajowy – who has kept his distance thus far – has been emboldened lately. Cloudborne Croft is a name anyone in Highglade would recognize. Sitting near the Dale's heart, the huge farm is nestled between flowered meadows and alpine woodlands. Its generational buildings and stony walls dot the landscape, where robust cattle idly graze. Dyed collars and vibrant ribbons adorn each animal, as if pageantry transcends production. The main longhouse stands like an immense bouquet of flowers and flags. Workers scurry around under the family's watchful eye; some of the hurrying young men and women are house servants – a rare sight in the Dales, yet an old tradition of the Highglade ranching families, the closest thing the Dales have to noble houses. None of the people in charge seem to have a kind bone in their body, their voices filled with restrained anger, each order barked, demanding. A tall, bullish man turns your way, staring out from beneath his lavish hat. He offers a tentative wave, neither welcome nor dismissal. In this scene, the Heroes meet Milorada's parents, Lukas and Chiara of Cloudborne Croft (page 88), as well as their other three adult children, Jacobé, Deita, and Bäni. They are cousins to Koral (page 89), and next in line to inherit the Croft. The Heroes search for clues to Azeria's possible whereabouts, but the Cloudbornes are not especially cooperative. Talking to Azeria's Grandparents The Cloudbornes' relative wealth and influence in Highglade makes them haughty-2, as they look down on most other Dalesfolk. Lukas and Chiara act distraught upon hearing of their daughter's death, but aren't surprised. It's been many winters since they last saw her, and if she didn't deign to come back, well, that was her issue to resolve. They blame Milorada's willful and fanciful nature, claiming she ran off with some peddler. If Azeria is mentioned, they become indignant-3 and visibly distraught. They deny the child's existence and accuse the Heroes of believing in fanciful stories. The Heroes could be to leave the area (Blocked) or to avoid continued interaction with the Cloudbornes themselves. Snooping for Clues Whether the Heroes talk to folk around the farm, sneak around and eavesdrop on the Cloudbornes, or break into their house, the following can be discovered: • A few evenings ago, the Cloudbornes were robbed by a fox-masked figure who stole several valuables, including books and clothes from Milorada's old room. The family is keeping this to themselves and have not turned to the Red Marshals for assistance. • They know about Azeria and already suspect she is the thief, but they do not know where she is. • Milorada's disappearance saved them potential embarrassment. Now Jacobé is their successor, and Azeria's resurfacing could harm their political standing should anyone learn she is a Twilight Kin; she also has some claim to the farm. They consider her existence an unacceptable threat. asked A HELPFUL CLOUDBORNE At some point, Deita contacts the Heroes and surreptitiously asks them to meet her at a late hour at the edge of Cloudborne Croft – alone. Doing so could require that the Heroes evade one of the Cloudbornes' guardian foxhounds, an Imposing Pet (CBII 115), or enter an Inviolable Place (page 248). Deita remembers Milorada as nothing but kind-hearted, and over the years managed to exchange a few letters with her; through the letters, Deita came to know Azeria, and has a soft spot for her niece. She is eager to share the following, hoping the Heroes can act in her favor: • Milorada spent her free time in Sionann Grove, an abandoned logging camp some distance away. • When Deita was a little girl, Milorada told her fanciful stories, including meeting her true love there. • She warns them Jacobé and her parents have acted strangely since the theft, talking in harsh whispers. Into the Forest To reach Sionann Grove, the Heroes must journey through the eerie and untamed woodlands. The forests of Highglade are generally thin, but this forest seems wilder than usual, with bewildering shadows everywhere. As the Heroes traverse 3 the forest, they should watch out; ever-resourceful, Azeria deployed several non-lethal traps along the overgrown trails to foil would-be pursuers. These should not debilitate or seriously injure, simply adding flavor to the atmosphere of inhospitability. A shallow, muddy pit opens before you (drenched-3 and bruised-1). A large branch snaps out, striking you in the face (stunned-2). An old ceramic pot drops, shattering in a plume of pine duff (coughing-2 and Exposure). A snare is attached to rusty cow bells, alerting Azeria (Exposure). In addition, the presence of an invisible watcher is growing stronger. If the Heroes have not explored it yet, they could discover who is behind it now. (SOLO: If you do, read The Lingering Shadow, page 349.)

The Fox'S Den

Nature has reclaimed much of Sionann Grove. Brush and trees weave in and out of its rickety huts, covered in lichen and moss, now offering sanctuary to animals and insects. Felled logs rot alongside old tools and equipment, crouched like silent sentinels. Despite all this, a hint of wood smoke and cooking meat is hanging in the air. A thin grey line rises from the chimney of a stone building that squats amongst the decay. Beside the building, a singular oak tree stretches upward, ancient and imposing. Amongst its branches, dozens of fox amulets hang on sinew and string. Some are recent; most are old and weatherworn. For some reason, they fill you with regret and grief, as if you've disturbed someone's secret guilt. In this final scene, the Heroes must gain Azeria's trust or capture her; to add to the trouble, Gajowy and the Cloudbornes arrive to interfere and promote what they think should be Azeria's fate. Confronting Azeria Inside the foreman's stone building, the Heroes find evidence of Azeria living here, probably for some days. A cursory search uncovers her stolen loot, including Radmila's utensils and Lady Midday's belongings. Azeria (profile on page 360) is hiding, likely aware of the Heroes' arrival (unless they were exceptionally quiet) and using her ability to manipulate shadows in order to remain undetected (in-shadow-3). She's unwilling to confront the Heroes directly. Initially she will try to stay in hiding, then scare them off with conjured fox shadows and taunts from out of sight while constantly moving around the ruined building. Her alienation at being outcast – by the people of Milkrest, Soddenmore, and her mother's family – makes her very slow to trust strangers. However, showing her her mother's ornate fox amulet can remove this status as a Simple action. Azeria is distrusting, but is young and in pain, eventually responding to empathy and honesty. POSSIBLE OUTCOMES • Azeria could escape 5 into the woods, leaving the Heroes to deal with both Gajowy and the Cloudbornes. • The Heroes can corner 5 Azeria, though this will make her distrust them even more. • If the Heroes befriend 4 her, Azeria Opens Up to them (see below). • If Azeria is physically endangered or the Heroes plan to capture her, Gajowy Steps Out of the Shadows (see below). Azeria Opens Up If won over, Azeria reveals herself, including her vulpine features – which she admits frighten and shame her. They began appearing several months ago, and her mother could not, or would not, explain them. She stopped showing her face in Milkrest, growing more and more desperate. After her mother's death, Azeria saw no other choice but to escape and be on her own. She regrets stealing from Radmila, but needed money and wanted mementos of her good times there; when she examined the fox mask, she noticed it was marked with the name “Bright Tails”, and recalled her mother speaking of Soddenmore. From there, she retraced her mother's path to Highglade and spied on the Cloudbornes for a while. She now understands that Milorada sacrificed everything to protect her from them. She's sorry for the trouble and pain she caused, and if the Heroes ask for the stolen items, she returns anything that isn't of personal importance. She then announces her intentions: to once again enter Cloudborne Croft and steal all of their valuables, to gain some justice for her mother. She suspects the ornate fox amulet and those in the tree all came from her father. Indeed, she continues 'to catch his scent,' as if he is following her. Gajowy Steps Out of the Shadows Once the Heroes have had some time to talk with Azeria, or if she is in danger or cornered – Gajowy reveals himself. Taken by the emotional scene and seeing his daughter so distraught, Gajowy steps out of the shadow with open arms, reuniting with her. Gajowy wants to promise his daughter he will protect her, but the weight of all he knows about the world and its many dangers, coupled with Azeria's mixed feelings about his absence from her life, makes this complicated. He hesitates, takes back misjudged words, and is open about his feelings – all are behavior he is clearly unaccustomed to. Gajowy is clearly a Creature of Twilight of some power, and both Azeria and the Heroes might have questions or demands of him – but he is aware the Cloudbornes are soon to arrive, and there isn't much time for him to delve into lengthy clarifications. Gajowy warns the Heroes that if they or the Cloudbornes try to harm Azeria or deny her freedom, he will intervene, and that would mean only one side gets to walk away alive. If the Heroes want to prevent bloodshed, they must handle the Cloudbornes themselves. The fox-like skulker then takes a step back and disappears into shadows – just in time. The Hounds Arrive Azeria's head snaps up, alert and confused. Her ears and nose twitch with vulpine curiosity – and fear. Her luminous eyes widen, focusing on you, full of accusations and uncertainty. “They're here!” she exclaims, scampering for the shadows. Indeed, you can hear the approaching voices and angered shouts. Beyond broken walls and between moss-covered trees, torchlights bob at some distance, illuminating the darkened forest. Lukas Cloudborne and his son Jacobé, accompanied by several of their farmhands all armed with farm implements, make their way forward. Murder burns in their eyes. Having bullied Deita into revealing what she told the Heroes, the Cloudbornes arrive at Sionann Grove to capture their granddaughter. Lukas demands the Heroes hand Azeria over, emphasizing that she is a trickster Creature of Twilight, a malevolent being that must be disposed of. He stresses how his poor daughter was “duped into having the little beast.” He swears the Heroes will be richly rewarded if they comply, but he has no intention of letting them leave the Grove alive, as they know too much. Jacobé and the loyal ranchers support his violent plan. Lukas (Respected Elder, CBII 117) is hostile-3 but is too old to take arms, instead being defended by his son (harm 3 , protective-2). The farmhands (Commoner militia, CBII 113) are a mix of loyal-2 and bullied-2. If things come to blows, there should be one to two followers per Hero. The situation quickly becomes frantic, potentially devolving into a siege. If the Heroes appear outmatched, or if Azeria is about to be taken or harmed, Gajowy arrives to help. However, he seems to be held back by some invisible power – and may very well be slain in the fray. First he loses his Might advantage; then Dalish Heroes who act against him become Favored and Dalish Heroes who act to aid him are Imperiled. The more Dalesfolk see Gajowy as an unnatural being, the more he is opposed by the Hem. LIMITS

Aftermath

Take a moment to discuss the outcome of the adventure with the Heroes: • What happened to Azeria? Was she captured, did she flee, or were the Heroes able to save her from a life of running? • And what of Gajowy? Did he survive the final confrontation? If so, did the Hero allow such a cunning Creature of Twilight to walk free? Or was another arrangement made? Perhaps one of the Heroes falls for him. • What about the Cloudbornes – are they still intent on violence against Azeria? Or is the wiser side of the family warming up to the idea that they have a new granddaughter – if Azeria even wants them in her life? • How did the Heroes and Azeria leave things with her burglary victims – Radmila, Bright-Tails, and Lady Midday? • What new insights into the lives of Creatures of Twilight did the Heroes gain, and how did it change their worldview? • If you played through For Fear of Winter, how did the encounter with the knights fare, and what questions did it leave in the Heroes' minds? REWARDS If they part on good terms, Azeria shares Milorada's Storybook with the Heroes. This book contains tales beloved by her mother about the Lady of the Dales (page 58) and her influence as a folk hero, as well as fables of Creatures of Twilight like her father. Milorada's favorite story, which she told Azeria many times, was called “The Mask and the Crown,” about a tricky fox who steals a circlet the Lady was going to give to Barleytown. The Lady ultimately makes the fox give the crown back, because “the crown is for the good of all, not just one fox. That very crown is now passed to a new bearer every harvest.” Azeria concedes she may have taken the wrong lesson from the story. The Crown in Barleytown The story of the fox and the Lady of the Dales refers to the Circlet of the Folkhearth, which will become important later in The Barleytown Fair (page 388). POSSESSIONS Milorada's Storybook reading stories aloud understanding Creatures dismissed as children's tales The lovingly-illustrated book, something of a rarity in the Dales, depicts the Lady of the Dales helping the Dalish, bargaining with Creatures of Twilight when they are willing, and outwitting them when they are not. She also refers on occasion to an enchantment of sorts that seems to be protecting the Dales. The stories have a repeated motif of the Lady helping the Dalesfolk solve some problem, then teaching them how to handle the problem themselves in the future. Core Revelation 5 It is the Lady's power that protects the Dales, but it is waning.