Chapter 3 - Revelations

Gideon assists in deciphering Mr. Filmon's spell tablets. Then he recommends a makeshift gag to prevent further mischief. He uses a handkerchief to secure Filmon's mouth. Gideon also quickly casts a healing spell from a tablet. It restores Bay's HP, but not her strength. The spell tablet almost backfired which doesn't make the rest of the group feel at ease about Gideon's ability to harness magical energy.

Mrs. Sprocket and Pumpkin Jack hastily depart the manor. The ghost accompanies the group to the front door but can't cross the threshold.

Silently making their way to the burned tree, the most probable location for treasure, Hazel steps on a disfigured gold coin amidst the debris, offering hope of more discoveries. Peering through the wreckage, the group spots a ship on the water, manned by skeletal figures. On land, a peculiar ritual unfolds with skeletons tossing trinkets into a green-flamed bonfire, causing the flames to momentarily turn pink and creating unnaturally large waves in the sea behind the ship.

Gideon whispers that the captain aims to create a massive wave by sacrificing magical trinkets, but he'll need something far greater for the destruction of the manor. That's when Sky notices mice tied up near the ritual, guarded by another skeleton. This new information causes Gideon to somberly explain part of the captain's curse. "The captain can turn mice into permanent members into his crew whether they want to join or not. Those mice forever become skeletons under his command. He can then use their lost life force for his spell!"

As the gravity of the situation sinks in, Bay recognizes one of the captives—Blossom.

Gideon begins reading the spell tablet...

A shimmering ball of magical energy materializes above the campfire. Gradually, it transforms into a substantial bubble of grease that descends onto the fire below, erupting in a fiery explosion that engulfs the immediate surroundings.

As the grease-covered fire explodes around Captain Mortimer and the nearby skeletons, an unnatural shriek echoes from the damaged skeletal figures. Although still standing, the skeletons show the effects of the fiery assault. Captain Mortimer, furious and on fire, quickly extinguishes the flames on himself using his hat. His attention turns towards the burnt tree as he commands, "Lads, check that tree!" The four damaged skeletons, still aflame, shamble towards the burnt tree.

The lone skeleton guarding the tied-up mice remains vigilant, while Captain Mortimer strides purposefully toward the captives. With the initiative in your favor after the surprise attack, it's now your turn to describe your next actions.

Hazel swiftly releases an arrow from her bow, aiming for a direct hit on the skeleton. Simultaneously, Bay skillfully employs a rope and hook, securing it to the skeleton's ribs and yanking it forcefully towards the ground. As a result, Hazel's arrow only manages to graze the skeleton. The undead creature, reacting with a futile attempt to cut the rope using its sword, is interrupted as Bay gives a powerful tug on the rope.

Bay please make a STR save. (You're current STR is 9)

Action pauses here until Sky can react.

Once Sky acts, the skeletons and Captain Mortimer will take a turn.

The hooked skeleton firmly embeds its bony hands into the ground, preventing Bay from pulling it closer. With a swift motion, it takes its sword and severs the rope that was attached to it.

Meanwhile, Captain Mortimer effortlessly lifts Blossom and slings her over his shoulder.

In the midst of the chaos, Sky skillfully slashes at one of the skeletons as it draws near. Despite taking damage and stumbling, the resilient undead recovers and retaliates, lunging forward to strike Sky and hitting her for 2 damage.

Gideon finds himself flanked by two skeletons. While one manages only a minor graze (1 damage), the other lands a serious blow (5 damage). Emitting a loud howl of pain and anger, Gideon charges forward like a bull, knocking the skeleton in front of him to the ground.

The last remaining skeleton focuses its attention on Hazel, slashing at her fur with its sword and dealing 2 damage.

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You all may act!