Chapter 3 - Revelations

Arranging the fragment pieces reveals a configuration that creates a cohesive circular shape if pushed together. The mice don't see anything that hints as to the true purpose of the medallion. All they can tell so far is that it is clearly magical in nature.



What course of action would the mice prefer to take? Should they assemble the pieces together, explore the manor for additional clues, visit Port Black to gather knowledge, question the manor guests, or consider another alternative? All options are open for exploration.

Dinner is served at the usual time. The mice are presented with a meal featuring fried brussel sprouts and a side of cheese, carefully prepared by the cook, Maya. She says "I’m sorry for the frantic presentation. I haven’t seen Mr. Filmon, and I’m left to do all the work myself."

Mr. Filmon is noticeably absent from the gathering.

The captain is constantly shoving food in his mouth. Sky, Hazel, and Bay all note that he is remarkably skinny for the amount of food he eats.

Miss Melody, full of self-importance, regales everyone with tales of her singing success.

While Mrs. Sprocket discusses ongoing projects around the manor, expressing gratitude for the recently fixed clock.

Pumpkin Jack, having completed his latest painting, seems more relaxed and even inquires about the well-being of the child seen outside. He seems dumbfounded that no one has gone out to make sure the tree that burned down hasn’t caused any harm. He says "I don’t care for those street urchins running around. Still…there must be some basic level of care for the area. Shouldn’t Mr. Filmon be handling this?"

Miss Melody responds "Oh those little ones are always playing tricks. I bet they all live comfortable lives and get such a kick from causing us discomfort. I bet Mr. Filmon is out there now taking care of things."

Count Gregory makes a brief appearance, his aura filling the room with unease. He assures everyone "Just stretching my legs after finally getting some rest." He gives Miss Melody an angry look. Then continues to address the group "Have no fear. I shall return to my quarters presently."

The captain, with a hearty chuckle, responds to Hazel's inquiry "Ye never know when the next meal could be yer last, lass. Best savor every bite, or ye might end up like me nothin but ol' bones!"

Hazel discerns a concealed truth in the Captain's words, a subtle jest involving "bones" that only the mischievous sailor fully comprehends. - The captain is attempting to be clever, tell the truth, and withhold information all at once.

As Hazel knocks off the Captain's hat, a startling transformation unfolds before their eyes. Instead of the old crusty sea captain, a skeleton now occupies the chair. The skeletal voice declares, "That cursed necromouser! His magic is as worthless as a spittoon!"

The shocking sight causes Miss Melody to faint, collapsing backward in her chair. Mrs. Sprocket and Pumpkin Jack scream and hastily exit the room, while Maya remains frozen in the corner, clutching a warm pot in terror.

Retrieving his hat, the skeleton Captain leaps onto the table, brandishing a flintlock pistol. He takes aim at Count Gregory, taunting, "Arr, I wager ye haven't laid eyes on these beauties before! They're the talk of the east, ready to swap out yer old bows and swords of old. Welcome to the new world!" He fires, filling the room with the scent of burning garlic and silver. Count Gregory, having absorbed the full blast, lies on the ground seemingly ok but worse for wear.

Holstering his pistol, the Captain points his cutlass at Sky, Hazel, and Bay. "Yarrr! Ye three shouldn't be meddlin' where ye don't belong. Jus' like that little scallywag, Blossom, roam'n' about, I dealt with that trouble, and I'll do the same for ye." He concludes with a maniacal, evil laugh, standing menacingly on the dining room table in his skeletal form. He has a cutlass in his right hand and in his left hand he holds a spell tablet.

As the captain begins, "Arr, I'll spill the beans on whatever ye be wantin' to know..." Sky abruptly disrupts everything.

The table jolts, glasses topple over, spilling their contents, and plates crash onto the floor. Bay attempts to assist and flip the table but it proves to be too heavy.

The captain, taken by surprise, tumbles backward, knocking over candles that extinguish upon hitting the tablecloth. Lying on his back, he grumbles, "Ye'll pay for that," He lifts up his spell tablet and utters the words.

As the captain chants the incantation from the spell tablet, the manor groans ominously, and a surge of water erupts from pipes, buckets, and sinks. A colossal wave crashes through the dining room, sweeping everyone and everything to the ground.

Bay and Hazel are thrown off balance by the force of the water, while Sky, quick on her feet, grabs a chair to shield herself from the deluge.

The dining room is drenched, and amidst the wet chaos, Sky notices the captain's pistol lying on the floor. However, its efficacy may be compromised by the water. The crazed captain laughs maniacally as he starts to rise from the tabletop.

Sky remains the sole mouse standing in the room.

The skeletal captain slowly rises, his bony form towering, but realizing he's at a disadvantage against Sky, he begrudgingly agrees to talk for the time being.

"Arr, ye should know me only desire in life has been the glint of precious treasure, me heartie. I've navigated the vast seas, braving tempests and battling foes, all in pursuit of that gleaming treasure. But not every trove be a worthy prize, and I found meself cursed. This Mr. Filmon, with his sorceries and strange dealings, offered to lift the curse for a king's ransom. Yet, it's naught but a deceiving illusion, a cruel jest upon me skeletal frame. - But mark me words, this manor hides its own riches, and that scallywag Filmon keeps 'em from me grasp! WITHHOLDING TREASURE FROM ME!"

The captain's tone grows more fervent and incensed as he delves into the topic of treasure. His obsession becomes palpable, and there's a hint of potential violence should the conversation persist along this course.

Reading the captain's intentions proves challenging, given his skeletal visage. Yet, certain traits become discernible. The captain, in his eerie skeletal form, showcases a moral compass swayed by avarice. His unrestrained pursuit of treasure leads him down a path of moral ambiguity, willing to traverse any waters and resort to any deed for the allure of riches. Madness has taken root in his bones, rendering him unpredictable, though not entirely impervious to rationale. While not inherently driven to inflict harm without purpose, his actions are guided more by personal pursuits—be it the quest for treasure or retribution against perceived wrongs.

"Arrr, I've been combing through the library's tomes, but not a clue about the treasure's secret has crossed me path. It's gotta be here, stashed away by that cunning Mr. Filmon. The scallywag's probably keeping it all for himself. He's always lurkin' 'round this manor. Whether rustlin' up trouble in his office, or wanderin' like a lost soul in his beloved courtyard, I know not."

"The tale of the lost lad be of no concern to me; me only interest lies in the treasure tucked away in these walls"

With a sinister grin, the captain gazes at his spell tablet, still intact and not fully expended. His eye sockets fix on the trio before him, and he utters, "Aye, I've got a plan. If he aims to withhold my heart's desire, then I'll snatch away what he holds dear." Slowly, he starts moving toward the door, eyeing the mice with caution, making sure not to expose his back to them.

The captain shouts "Aye, this very manor, me heartie!"

The door to Mr. Filmon's office is locked.

Bay steps back and charges at the door, slamming her shoulder into it. The old door bursts open, leaving a mouse-shaped hole for the others to enter. However, Bay topples to the ground, wincing as her shoulder bears the brunt of the impact.

Bay's enthusiastic attempt to break open the door with her shoulder is effective, but the pain proves overwhelming, causing her to collapse. While she's not dead, she will need some time to recover.

As Sky and Hazel enter Mr. Filmon's office, they find a relatively plain-looking workspace. A writing desk with drawers to explore and papers scattered on top catches their attention. A small bookcase stands to the side of the room. The only distinctive item is an eerie painting hanging on the wall, depicting dancing skeletons around a fire.

Sky examines the eerie painting, noticing a necromantic symbol in the corner, suggesting Mr. Filmon's possible involvement in a larger organization. Turning her attention to the bookshelf, she finds expected titles on hotel management and accounting, but one peculiar book stands out: "The Secret to Magic Containers: Your Guide to Making Chests, Boxes, and Traps." Flipping through the pages reveals detailed instructions on crafting indestructible magic containers.

Bay gradually regains consciousness, feeling sore but generally okay after an hour. Simultaneously, the trio hears a hubbub of voices emanating from the lobby.

She finds Miss Melody, Count Gregory, Mrs. Sprocket, Pumpkin Jack, and even Maya the cook gathered with their suitcases and gear. The aftermath of Captain Mortimer's revelation, gunshot, and the indoor tidal wave has proven too much for everyone, leading them to collectively decide to leave the manor. They all chat amongst themselves as they prepare to leave.

Hazel
As Hazel explores the office, she discovers various receipts and documents related to the manor's operation. While going through one of the desk drawers, she notices a concealed compartment. Opening it, she finds a journal belonging to Mr. Filmon. Flipping through the pages, she comes across several revealing entries.

One entry states,
Today, I officially joined the Whiskerweave Enclave. They've promised to impart their mysterious arcane knowledge to me. However, they've tasked me with a mission first. There's an old sea captain in need of a discreet refuge. He's promised a generous payment, which will greatly aid in developing the hotel.

Another entry reveals,
I've uncovered the secret of the manor, and it's unacceptable! While I aim to make this place famous for its eerie atmosphere, this secret threatens to ruin everything. I must devise a way to conceal it.

The final noteworthy entry reads,
I believe I've found a solution to my dilemma. I've crafted a magical chest capable of containing supernatural entities. Now, I need to figure out how to hide and safeguard it from the manor's guests. It must never be released. Perhaps a secluded spot in the courtyard would serve...

Bay
The mice exchange uncertain glances, pondering their next move. Miss Melody is the first to voice her opinion, stating firmly, "I refuse to stay in this place. I am a person of glamour and fame, and residing here would tarnish my impeccable reputation."

Count Gregory follows, his voice strained, "After the Captain's assault, I find myself in need of a place to heal my wounds. Staying here is not an option for me."

The cook echoes their sentiments, expressing her reluctance to remain. Despite their reservations, Pumpkin Jack and Mrs. Sprocket reluctantly agree to stay. Mr. Sprocket, seeking guidance, asks, "What do you think we should do next?"

"Mr. Filmon spends the majority of his days in the kitchen, assisting with meal preparations. After the evening meal, he consistently heads to the courtyard like clockwork. Considering it's evening now, that's likely where he is." A brief pause follows, and his complexion turns ashen. "Did you mention undead in the cellar?"

Mrs. Sprocket contributes, "Mr. Filmon is truly passionate about this manor. He's constantly discussing his plans to turn it into a grand establishment. He even requested that I design some devices for creating spooky noises and frightening appearances. Yet, one day, he abruptly told me to cease working on them, claiming he'd figured it out himself. Could it be that he discovered it by creating undead creatures?" A hint of fear colors her expression.

After Bay issues her instructions, the mice spring into action. Pumpkin Jack swiftly gathers three oil lamps and a set of torches, while Mrs. Sprocket ventures into storage, emerging with the required rope and net.

Pumpkin Jack secures one end of the courtyard, and Mrs. Sprocket takes care of the other. Hazel positions herself on the second floor, bow drawn, overlooking the courtyard. Sky and Bay station themselves on the woodshed, anticipating Mr. Filmon's emergence.

As time seems to stretch on endlessly, dusk begins to settle, and finally, Mr. Filmon steps out of the woodshed. Bay seizes the moment and hurls the net at him, landing it perfectly. Caught in the net, Mr. Filmon flails, attempting to free himself. Sky reacts swiftly, wedging something in the door to prevent it from closing fully, ensuring that if Mr. Filmon escapes, he won't be able to shut himself back in.

Indignant, Mr. Filmon bellows, "What is the meaning of this? I demand that you set me free!"

The shed appears completely normal. Mr. Filmon has tidied up the wood pile, closed the trap door, and concealed it under the rug.

"The Whiskerweave Enclave?" Mr. Filmon exclaims, a gasp escaping him. "But... how could you know?! Listen, we can discuss all of this calmly if you just release me."

Mr. Filmon thrashes about as you search him. He’s not making it easy on you.

Trapped within the net, Mr. Filmon pleads desperately, "No, don't open it! I've locked a spirit inside the chest! It's nothing that concerns you. This manor is haunted, or it was haunted. I knew that when I took over as owner. I wanted to harness that ability to bring in more guests. Everyone loves a good fright, and I was going to use that to attract mice here. I sought out the Whiskerweave Enclave to see if they could help me, and they decided to teach me some... um.. tricks. But I had to keep my part of the deal and harbor that crazed skeleton pirate. He's obsessed with treasure and thinks there is some hidden here. It's driving him mad. Please don't open that chest! It will ruin everything!"

Surprisingly, Mr. Filmon doesn't appear to be lying.

"Yes, yes, it's that stupid lost son. I thought he would be more useful, but he had the exact opposite effect of what I wanted! That STUPID SPIRIT RUINED EVERYTHING. I hid him in the basement so that no one would let him out. I don't know about the treasure if that is what you're hinting at. I couldn't find anything about it. I thought the captain might have better luck with that. The skeletons under the shed are some of the captain's old crew that I used to guard it. Don't tell the captain! He'll be furious. He still has his ghost ship, and he has the power to control the ocean waves. If he finds out, he might try to channel something and destroy everything!"

At the mention of the boy spirit, Mr. Filmon becomes more animated and angry. "There isn't much to tell. I learned that this manor couldn't keep owners because of rumors that it was haunted. Then I did some of my own research and discovered that it indeed was. There are ways of dealing with such things, and the Whiskerweave Enclave promised to teach them to me. We even worked out a deal with Captain Mortimer to help fund the purchase of the manor. When I finally found the spirit and flushed him out, I realized that he wasn't something that I wanted around. I decided that I would take matters into my own hands and work my magic to create a truly scary ambiance, so I trapped the spirit into a magical chest in the basement. Then I took some measures to make sure no one could ever free him. I've worked too long and too hard for that spirit to ruin everything I created!"

Sky
Mr. Filmon admits, "I can't do anything to break the pirate's curse. I can only help him look like he's normal. If you open the box, the spirit will be free to roam this manor once again! It will reveal itself to guests, and who knows what it will ultimately do. I don't know how to get rid of that foul spirit." He quickly, perhaps too quickly, agrees with any plan to further keep the magical chest closed.

Bay
Bay returns to her room and carefully reassembles the medallion pieces. As she clicks them together, a surge of magical energy courses through them, and the medallion briefly glows, seemingly repairing itself. It now stands as a unified and solid piece. No other noticeable changes occur.

The trio of adventurous mice release Mr. Filmon from the net, and with Sky's sword at his back, he leads them into the woodshed. He flips over the rug and deftly inputs the code to open the trap door. They descend the stairs slowly, Bay close to Sky, lighting a torch to illuminate their path. The air becomes heavy with the unmistakable scent of dampness and decay as they venture into the depths.

A room unfolds before them, centered around a murky pool that reaches waist-high. The pool's sides are slick with glistening green algae, and on the left sits a skeletal figure, one leg straight, head lolled to the side. Skeletal fingers protrude from the pool, suggesting that both skeletons have returned to their initial positions. Mr. Filmon guides the trio to the right side of the pool, steering clear of the skeletons, and they pass through into another room.

This room is plain, with a torch hanger on the wall, a stool, and a large chest. The chest stands out with its multicolored appearance and silver and steel banding. A circular depression replaces a keyhole on the chest. Mr. Filmon seizes the moment to plead with the group, "Please, don't open the chest. I can offer you money, or perhaps there's something else you desire? I only wish to manage my manor in peace."

Mr. Filmon grows quiet and meekly admits, "I don't know what happened to Blossom. I was inside the manor with you when she disappeared. I suspect the captain had more to do with that. Perhaps he felt you were getting too close to the "treasure." If she truly is dead, there is nothing I can do for her."

The medallion seamlessly slots into the circle on the chest, emitting an ominous click. Suddenly, the chest begins to pulsate with a faint blue glow, quivering as if an unseen force inside struggles to break free. The room is soon engulfed in the eerie howling of a ghost, accompanied by a rushing wind that seems to carry desperate cries for help. Mr. Filmon panics, shouting, "NO NO NO. You've ruined all my hard work!" Just as he protests, the chest lid violently flings open, unleashing a blinding flash of light.Sky, please make a DEX save.

Anticipating the impending dramatic opening of the chest, Mr. Filmon pivots, attempting to disarm Sky. However, Sky, with her sharp awareness and vigilant gaze, foils his move. She spots his maneuver beforehand and swiftly extends her mouse foot, tripping him before he can carry out his plan. The room echoes with a resounding thud as Mr. Filmon crashes to the ground.

The ghost begins pointing to Mr. Filmon, "Well, when he arrived and we first crossed paths, he became infuriated. He claimed to have grand plans of turning this place into the eeriest, scariest, most talked-about hotel in the world. He wanted to build a grand reputation, and everyone would flock here. I tried to cooperate, genuinely did, but he insisted that I wasn't scary enough, that I couldn't frighten a flea! One day, he tricked me into this chest. Then, every day, he would come down and say the most dreadful things, like how no one would ever see me again, and I'd spend an eternity locked in this chest. I would let out the most dreadful wails. Then he would declare, 'Now that's scary,' and leave me alone."

Giving everyone a moment to react before moving forward.

The ghost responds, "Time is a fog when you're stuck in this state. I can't say for certain how long it's been. I remember getting lost in the woods and finding some mushrooms. As for a treasure, well, my dad is rich, and he always had a fondness for a large behind the manor tree. That might be a good place to check. And Gideon? That name doesn't ring any spectral bells."

The ghost sighs, "I'm bound to this place. I've tried to leave, but it's like an invisible force pulling me back. I wish I could bring closure to my parents, but it seems I'm trapped here, reliving the same haunting routine. Finding happiness elsewhere, that's a dream I've long given up."

The ghost is about to say more when you all hear hurried footsteps echo through the stairwell, and Gideon appears, breathless and gasping for air. "Need to leave. Summoned back. Large magical energy. Danger! Heard from Count Gregory in Port... you're still here." Confusion crosses his face as he spots Mr. Filmon and the ghost. Despite the confusion, urgency persists in his plea. "Very little time."

It appears that something may happen soon. You have a choice to follow Gideon, stay here an help/talk with the Ghost, spend time asking questions of Gideon if he’ll stay, or something else entirely.

Gideon, catching his breath, responds urgently, "A massive magical disturbance on the water. Something to do with a pirate ship. I had to warn everyone, but I didn't expect you all still here. We must leave now! I think you’ll see what I mean when we’re outside." He glances at Mr. Filmon and the ghost, registering the situation.

Gideon, between breathes says "Guess I needed more exercise. Picked the right team, didn't I? You are all great" He looks at Mr. Filmon and the ghost, then asks "Should he be tried for magic crimes?" Gideon, though out of breath, remains alert and ready for action.

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.

---

You all may act!

Hazel's aim is true, and her arrow strikes the skeleton's skull directly, dislodging it from its bony frame. The detached cranium soars through the air before landing some distance away, leaving the rest of the animated bones to crumble lifelessly to the ground.

Bay whirls around with her trident, directing her attention to the skeleton locked in combat with Sky. With a swift and precise strike, she pierces the skeletal form. The skeleton emits a bone-chilling shriek before collapsing to the ground, defeated.

Sky still gets to act.

Sky's sword swings with precision, crashing down on the skeleton. The bony figure splinters and crumbles to the ground, sending bone fragments scattering through the air.

As Gideon prepares to respond to Bay's command, Sky's words reach the ears of the Captain. He halts near the rowboat, stopping just short of boarding. Sky has deftly tapped into the Captain's deeper interest—treasure. In response, the Captain calls back, a hint of suspicion in his voice, "How be I knowin' this ain't some clever trick? Ye best be providin' me with assurances."

The skeleton by the other tied up mice and the one in front of Gideon begin to slowly rise.

Bay's trident crashes down with a mighty wallop, turning the skeleton into a scattering of bones. But the wily Captain Mortimer, sharp as a cutlass, orders the lone standing skeleton to stay put, using the threat against them tied-up mice to his advantage.

"Spill the cheese, ye scurvy mice! What is it that you propose? I still hold the high ground. A word from me lips, and me skeletal mate there can turn on them poor mice. I'll be takin' meself away quicker than ye can say 'yo ho ho'," warns the Captain, makin' the air as tense as a rope pulled tight.

Captain Mortimer smirks, "Ye put Mr. Filmon near them tied-up mice. Me skeleton mate'll stroll over and fetch this lass slingin' her over me shoulder. He'll plop her by them tied mice, and then collect Mr. Filmon. He'll make a fine addition to me crew. Once that's done, ye can spill the beans on where the treasure lies, and we'll part ways, savvy?"

Sky, Bay, and Hazel's coordinated assault swiftly dismantles the remaining skeleton, prompting a cheer from the tied-up mice. Seizing an opportunity, the Captain tosses the momentarily stunned Mr. Filmon into the boat. With quick thinking, the Captain leaps into the boat, and it starts to float away.

The captain shouts "You’ll pay for this! Mark me words you will!"

Some general notes about the story