Curse of the Blood Sea

Our second campaign set on Abmarah, Curse of the Blood Sea followed the crew of the Phoenix Nebula, a pirate party, through the cursed waters of the Blood Sea. The campaign ran for nearly a year, between July 2021 and May 2022. Much of the campaign was turned into the Blood Sea Campaign Setting book.

Working against the the Cult of the Whisperer as well as the Cult of Varkanus, the party prevented the end of the world by pushing back Demogorgon and stopping Xaniv the Whisperer from killing Varkanus when the cometfall Abyssgate opened. The party worked with and against both The Pirate Court as well as the Crimson Empire, and was heavily involved in the political upheaval of the Cinoh Shogunate. The party also butted heads with the Lunar Collective, but never worked against their interests.

The three acts of the campaign's story are further divided into nine chapters, and the story takes place over the course of two years including a timeskip. The first act focuses on the abyssal plague created by Dr. Genso, while the second act focuses on the party dealing with the political issues of the Blood Sea. The third and final act involves the party working with Emperor Sombra, reconvening the pirate court, and finally destroying the Abyssgate.

Player Characters

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The Phoenix Nebula started with five players, with Pravin joining later in Act 2. Alongside him, Devaanshu changed his character from Nyx to D'vorah. Near the end of Act 2, Anlee died to one of Xaniv's aberrations, and Vijay replaced him with Fek. Priyanshu was also present for 2 sessions with the guest character Haru Kira.

In addition to the player characters, there were 6 key NPC crewmates that acted as player characters for a few sessions:

Synopsis

“Ah yes, the Phoenix Nebula. Actually, it was ME who brought them together, you know. I was their first sponsor, even gave them their first ship. If it wasn't for Governor Gullis here, the world would be fucked! I'm not taking all the credit, of course, that's up to the fates above, but I am taking, like, 70% of the credit. 75%. Now, my friend, I have a good business opportunity for you here, at Tikius: A city for people like us to turn over a new leaf." - Belanar Gullis, Pirate Lord of Greed

Act 1 - Genso's Plague

Chapter 1 - Belanar's Men

The campaign started with an action-packed week, starting with the group of five (plus Pete) traveling toward the island of Cinoh aboard the Teal Star, a merchant ship. Their journey is interrupted when Deeprose pirates ambush them, forcing them to crash-land at Tikius, an infamous pirate island quarantined due to a mysterious plague. They meet the leader of Tikius, the pirate lord Belanar Gullis. He forced them to stay at Razan Manor under Carolyn Ranu for a bit, and then he told them to go investigate the Deeprose Rummery nearby. The crew ventures into the old market, where they perform for money and later infiltrate the Deep Rose brewery. Disguised as pirates, they discover sinister experimentation that someone here did to seemingly create the plague, triggering a large fight. In the chaos, they turn an enemy, Gary, into an ally. Later on their way back, they save a friend, Amari, from velociraptors. There are tremors in the city, and Belanar hasn't heard anything from the volcano watchers on the mountain. Heading up towards the volcano, the party meets Xoe, an artificer. At the top, they find the observatory destroyed by lava monsters, and they encounter a lava snake named Pyrovain demanding sacrifices at a volcano, but they escape before anything bad happens. An eruption seems imminent, and the party comes under the employment of Belanar, who even repairs the Teal Star into a new ship called the Argent Star. He sends them to find Captain Roonan, the leader of the Deeprose Pirates, and bring him back from the Anchorage of Whispers.

Continuing their journey, the crew arrives at Fort Rawan where they learn the island is under Crimson control. They are sent on a mission to clear beasts from a shrine nearby, where they pick up a quetzalcoatlus egg. and later assist soldiers in killing escaped plague monsters. Commodore Zolen hires them to hunt down Roonan, a pirate leader, and the party requests the release of Shoila, one of Roonan's crew, in exchange. After selling some cod at the Anchorage of Whispers, they watch pirate lord Xaniv the Whisperer execute someone who comitted a crime within the city publically. They make connections in town via Laoch's old friend Zorahim and follow clues to Cavetown, where they confront the Deep Rose pirates again. The party meets Xaniv alongside Roonan, getting some answers to their questions regarding the plague including the name of the cultist making the plague, Dr. Genso, who seeks an artifact called the Black Scroll of Varkun. Shoila betrays the party and helps Roonan, and they challenge Captain Roonan to a duel, ultimately leading to his capture. They forgive Shoila, but the rest of the Deeprose crew escapes and evades capture. They party witnesses a meteor shower and battles monstrous creatures near a crashed meteorite which nearly kill D'vorah.

Upon returning to Fort Rawan, the crew collects their bounty for Roonan and receives valuable information about the ongoing plague by one Dr. Baizo. Afterward, they prepare for a dangerous typhoon and manage to steer through the storm successfully. The journey ends in Tikius, where the crew faces the lava snake Pyrovain again, ultimately defeating it in a dramatic battle near the volcano using the typhoon's rain to kill it. With the storm settling, the island celebrates their victory with a lively party. During the festivities, Belanar gifts them a treasure map, Elise enjoys a romantic encounter with Salyn, and Laoch receives her new sword, Stormdancer, from Xoe.

Chapter 2 - Finally Cinoh

They begin by sailing in the Argent Star towards Cinoh but are ambushed by pirates. After a tough fight that leaves their ship heavily damaged, they arrive at Port Cinoh, where they learn Dr. Baizo has been kidnapped by the Yakuza, specifically the leader of the Aekai Family, Singularity. The crew meets with Shōgun Iwale, who assigns them the task of rescuing Baizo. They also meet the Shogun's children, Prince Miyoshi and Princess Aite, but its only a brief encounter. After a challenging duel at Shidono Temple, Nyx is accepted back into his monk order by Monk Kazeshi, and they gather clues that lead them to the Aekai Family compound. Along the way, they defeat a thief and participate in the ongoing Seven's Carnival where Laoch triumphs in a tournament, winning the aid of Yatra, a fighter with memory loss linked to the Aekai. Esma tried to recruit Laoch, but got rejected.

As they journey further, the crew uncovers corruption within the samurai ranks and faces nightmarish dreams tied to the nearby Cometfall Sea. They fend off an ambush by Aekai shinobi and infiltrate the Aekai compound. There, they encounter Dr. Baizo performing a ritual on Singularity’s child Tsubi, who is sick from the aberrant influence of the sea. They decide to help out the Yakuza. A dramatic exorcism unleashes an Unspeakable Horror, leading to a fierce battle that culminates with the top of a mountain temple being torn into the sky. The team defeats a possessed Singularity and survives the ordeal, later awakening in a hospital in Yushan thanks to Yatra.

After recuperating, the crew sends Singularity’s child Tsubi to Snort at the Anchorage for safety. Yatra, although not ready to join the crew, agrees to escort the child and seek aid for her memory. Back in Nagiji, the group reconnects with samurai allies, learning that the corrupt members they had exposed were executed. They eventually return to Port Cinoh amidst the city’s carnival celebration. At the citadel, they meet the Shogun and the princess, receive a handsome reward, and discuss the political tensions affecting Cinoh. Meanwhile, Nyx explores his past with Kazeshi at Shidono Temple, gaining a cursed-water cure for the plague and an enchanted weapon.

In their final days in Cinoh, the group battles a formless spawn released from a jar they retrieved, overcoming Nyx's fear during the fight. They enjoy the last day of the carnival, winning a bard-off wager against Elise's rival bard, Uragan Ventorius, before discovering that Roonan’s revelations have made them outlaws in the Crimson Empire. After saying their goodbyes and tending to loose ends, they set sail again, naming their newly hatched quetzalcoatlus baby "Duck Norris," and continue training their allies for the battles ahead. The party notices a white albatross that has been following them for some days.

Chapter 3 - The Chase

Arriving in Okuyama late at night, the gang wakes up a wizard named Nowles to buy supplies from his magic shop. The next day, they gather information from a young blacksmith about tritons and a cult, then head towards Yube. En route, they're attacked by a juvenile kraken which guards the island, which tears apart the Argent Star and kills Gary. Anlee awakens his katana Suiryuto during the fight, slaying the kraken with its own lightning. Stranded on shore, the white albatross reveals himself as Vertum, the god behind their shared dreams. He warns them of Varkanus’ corruption and Genso’s role. Anlee learns his old ship, the Hisui Maru, might be among the wrecks in Yube. The gang infiltrates Yube Lab, defeating cultists including Onis in a fierce battle. In the lab, they converse with a projection of Genso, who explains his quest to lift the blood sea curse. After some thoughtful exchanges, Genso leaves to reflect on their words. Yoruu gains red eyes after getting cursed while meditating at Varkanus' altar. The group frees the remaining crew of the Deep Rose, learning from them about a cultist contact in Taltigo. The gang sets sail on their newly acquired brig, heading for Taltigo. The Deep Rose is officially theirs.

Arriving in Taltigo, Sif leads them to the Lilypad Home for Children, where they donate their earnings to Ashby, one of the caretakers. While there, they confront a suspicious figure marking the orphanage's wall with a symbol. Realizing the person is connected to the Crimsons, they follow him to the pirate lord Lady Lyn's brothel, the Sea’s Embrace. The figure turns into Zai, a female changeling, and introduces them to Lady Lyn. She offers to help them find the Varkanus cultist, but only after they complete a task for her. Yoruu awkwardly attempts to connect with Zai, but doesn't get far. The next morning, Lyn sends the gang to recover her merchandise from a rival shadowfell gang at Warehouse 7-C. There, they get ambushed by shadow dancers. Discovering that Lyn’s "merchandise" is actually slaves, the group debates what to do. Eventually, they hand over the slaves to Lyn, but Nyx exchanges a pirate coin for Zai’s freedom. Lyn reluctantly agrees, and provides information about Yulis, the Varkanus sect leader in Taltigo, who operates from the sewers under West Gate. Zai contemplates joining them, but decides to run off instead. Later, the gang visits the Sand Chapel, Taltigo’s largest Sigmus temple, where Father Gulnik removes Varkanus' curse from Yoruu. He also tells Anlee that he has the potential for sea sorcery. Back at the ship, the crew decides their positions, with Laoch becoming first mate and Pete the quartermaster.

Early in the morning, Ashby alerts the gang that a young tiefling girl named Kiyis has been kidnapped, and the ransom note bears Varkanus’ symbol. The gang rushes into the sewers, where they get lost for hours. Yulis, speaking telepathically, taunts them and warns that he knows their tactics. They're ambushed by alligators, but manage to prevail. Eventually, they reach Yulis' sanctum, where he reveals his distaste for Genso but admits he must serve him. A fierce battle ensues in which Yulis casts silence, and his cultists cast darkness. The fight pushes the gang to their limits, with Laoch and Anlee repeatedly close to death. They finally manage to kill Yulis, much to Anlee's relief and frustration. After looting the area, they return Kiyis to the orphanage. Baizo contacts them via a projected image, and they discuss heading to Gravesbry to follow Yulis' trail. The gang sets sail for Tikius with Zai finally joining them, dodging Nyx’s hug in the process.

Amari informs the crew that Anlee and Nyx have contracted sewer plague, causing them to be sick all day. After recovering, the group navigates through thick fog and safely docks in Tikius. They meet Belanar, settle debts, and take him up on his offer for a free ship upgrade. Sif steals demon juice again, while Anlee and Laoch pay Xoe to melt Yulis’ adamantine plate into new armor. On the morning of the 15th, the gang awakens to find their ship, now named the Phoenix Nebula, repaired and upgraded. They sail out towards Gravesbry, sensing an unnatural storm ahead. Yoruu has a heartfelt conversation with Zai, apologizing and assuring her that the crew are good people. Zai thanks him but says she still needs time to figure out who she is.

The gang encounters a crimson frigate in the storm, forcing them to dock at Gravesbry. There, Baizo informs them that Genso has reached Gravesbry but hasn't found the black scroll yet. It’s hidden in a sunken temple. Admiral Isabeau forces them to sign a tier one privateer contract with the Crimson Navy, with Anlee sealing the deal. Baizo introduces two researchers including Xoe who can build an underwater pressurized apparatus. The gang then decides to follow a treasure map to Isla Tumba, where they meet a half-orc boy named Can who leads them through the forest to a tomb. Inside, they solve a puzzle and discover treasure, including a mysterious key and a sealed iron flask. Returning to Gravesbry, Xoe and Baizo finish the Apparatus of Kwalish, which the gang uses to descend into the trench.

While the main gang explores the underwater temple, the crew on the surface battles Rusalkas and a megalodon. The gang reaches the temple, where a storm giantess named Amohr creates an air pocket and tests their strength. After a difficult battle, they prove their prowess and claim the map to black scroll, which is located on a island called Darkgrove Isle. Amohr warns them that doom awaits, no matter who wields the scroll. Anlee's sorcerous abilities are awakened, and Sif manages to steal gold from the temple. The storm dissipates, and the crew enjoys megalodon shark fin soup. However, that night, Anlee catches a crew member trying to steal the map. The thief transforms into the Oni from Yube, who escapes as smoke, but Anlee and Baizo manage to kill him with Baizo shooting out a disintegrate spell, though Baizo suffers damage to his hands from casting such a powerful spell.

The gang reaches Fort Rawan again and meets Commodore Zolen, who lends them 50 Crimson soldiers for their mission to Darkgrove Isle. They arrive at the island to find ruins of an ancient city and a temple of Varkanus. Inside, Laoch solves a blood sacrifice puzzle and has visions of an ancient elf, pre-cometfall and post-cometfall. She witnesses Genso's past research and how it led to the plague accident that caused his fall from grace. They leave the soldiers to defend against plague monsters and enter the Scroll Sanctum. There, Nyx’s shapeshifting into Genso disturbs Baizo, and Laoch senses evil in him as he switches forms to reveal that Baizo and Genso are the same person with two different personalities. The gang blacks out, and when they wake, they must face shadowy manifestations of their fears—Anlee’s father, the Formless Spawn, Snort, Uragan, and Roonan. Zai and Xoe return to the surface while the gang heads into a blood-filled hallway full of plagued foes. They finally reach the Scroll Sanctum, where Genso and Baizo merge into one entity. The Doctor summons plagued hulks, and a hard-fought battle ensues. Sif and Laoch manage to retrieve the scroll and keep it away from Genso, while Nyx and Laoch narrowly avoid a disintegrate beam. Together, they defeat the Doctor and retrieve the black scroll, with Amohr's words reminding Laoch that once a secret is known, it cannot be unknown. The party decides to give the scroll to Amohr to safeguard it.

After Genso's defeat, the crew celebrates Laoch's birthday with a grand party, including a two-story cake. Nyx announces he's embarking on a Journey of Discovery, donating money to Sif's orphanage. Elise plans to write a book about their adventures and return to college. Xoe raises a toast to Baizo, whom the world believes was killed by Genso. Anlee decides to explore his heritage, and makes Laoch the new captain. With Laoch now captain of the Phoenix Nebula, the crew celebrates with cheers and magic, though Sif accidentally shoots a crewmate with a poison arrow, who is quickly healed by Amari, as the party continues.

Act 2 - Brink of War

There is a two year timeskip, during which only Laoch and Sif remained on the Phoenix Nebula as privateers working for Admiral Isabeau, who gets promoted to Grand Admiral during this timeskip. They also take ownership of the Rummery in Tikius, turning it into the Silver Songbird Rummery and starting a rum brand called Nebula Rum. Additionally, near the end of the timeskip Shogun Iwale is assassinated in Cinoh, leaving the country with a power vacuum during this tense period in which the Crimsons and the Lunars might just go to war. The party is forced back together near the secret pirate island of Shipwreck City, into the dungeons of pirate lord Xiphalia Sitarro.

Chapter 4 - Captives

Laoch and Sif get drunk and become disorderly at the Tidemeet in Shipwreck City, which, coupled with Xiphalia's paranoia, leads to them being thrown into her prison. Elise returns, with Zai in disguise, and convinces Lady Xiphalia to let her see the captives. In the prison, Sif and Laoch wake up hungover and discover their friend Anlee, unshaven and locked up for a week, and a minotaur named Boz, imprisoned for a month. Sif uses thieves' tools hidden in Laoch's hair to pick the locks just as Elise and Zai arrive. Zai then reveals herself and throws a stick of dynamite, blowing open the back wall and freeing everyone, including Boz and Anlee. They make their way down the cliff to the beach, only to be ambushed by Xiphalia’s goons. However, a mysterious vedavin necromancer, casting a blur spell and controlling skeletal and zombie dogs, dispatches the attackers. This figure reveals himself as D'vorah, who found them using Elise’s book. They escape aboard a boat piloted by Bajak, heading back to the Phoenix Nebula where the crew reunites. In truth, D'vorah hired those goons to test the party himself.

A galleon from Xiphalia pursues them, but Laoch uses his channel divinity to help them evade capture. Just as things calm down, they’re hit by a rogue wave that cracks the iron flask they had been carrying from Isla Tumba, releasing Shah Heswaa el-Majraa, a Marid imprisoned long ago by the elves. Heswaa, now free, offers them one wish and after some discussion, Sif wishes for protection from the incoming ships. Boz asks her about the Abyssgate and the Cometfall, and Heswaa reveals her knowledge of Xaniv’s formation of the Pirate Order and the Abyssgate's sealing, noting that the seal has recently started weakening. For Sif’s wish, Heswaa transforms into water, sinking the ship and transporting it to a bubble island within the Elemental Plane of Water. They remain there for hours, with Laoch praying to Atrius for guidance while others explore the strange new environment. Eventually, water elementals arrive, declaring that the crew now belongs to Sultan Mukaz al-Azad.

The crew is taken to the Sultan’s city-palace, Castle Almarjanu, located on a giant lion turtle. In the palace, they are introduced to the slaves and the luxurious surroundings, with the Sultan speaking to them about their races and heritages. He offers them freedom if they can defeat an Aboleth that has been stealing his slaves. They meet Gwenva, who gives them a tour of the castle, and Heswaa again, who has her own agenda. In the library, the crew finds valuable information and gear. Anlee learns about Aboleths, including the fact that they don’t die permanently. Meanwhile, Boz notices that Akkar’s bed is slightly ajar, revealing a hidden cave leading to a gate back to the material plane. Laoch and others diplomatically talk with Heswaa, who wants to one-up the Sultan. They meet up and discuss their options. Heswaa agrees to transport them back to the material plane in exchange for her receiving credit for the Aboleth’s defeat. The crew heads into a far-off reef to face the Aboleth. D’vorah transforms Boz into a giant shark, and during the ensuing battle, the Aboleth nearly overpowers them with psychic attacks and illusions. However, Laoch’s sword lands a critical blow, and they defeat the creature. Heswaa keeps her end of the bargain, transporting them back to the material plane—specifically to the Ashfall Sea near Saturnia.

The crew docks at Saturnia and heads to the Sparkling Triangle pub to discuss their plans. There, Laoch receives a letter from the Crimsons, and they meet with Laoch’s spy contact, Senator Chupov. He shares rumors and tells them about an upcoming engagement ceremony for Bolt Kriptonskyi. He offers to get them into the event, which leads to the gang attending a high-class gala in fancy clothing. During the gala, they meet Bolt Merkuriyev, but things take a turn when Chupov is arrested by Bolt Karboniv’s agents for espionage. Despite the arrest, Karboniv is much more civil than expected, offering the crew a neutral standing if they can prove themselves by taking out a Lunar Pirate Federation slave ring. The crew heads to the Cove of Cries and, after a fierce battle, frees around 52 slaves. Boz has an emotional reunion with a fellow minotaur, and they set sail for Port Cinoh.

At Canau, they meet the pirate lord Cetrovna. She asks of the party to catch a deserter who owes her money, who escaped to a nearby monastery at Firewatch Isle. There, they find the monastery nearly destroyed, with only a few survivors. They learn that the zombie crew of the Tammeraut has been attacking the monastery, led by the undead captain Syrgaul- One of the first pirate lords. It's a small mini abyssgate near the island. The party defends the monastery from a zombie horde, and then heads to the trench to defeat Syrgaul themselves. After getting their reward from Cetrovna, they continue on towards Cinoh.

The journey to Cinoh is long and challenging, with the crew encountering a major storm and mysterious phenomena. D’vorah experiences a time freeze caused by the god Varkanus, who taunts him and suggests a betrayal is in D’vorah’s future. However, Anlee witnessess this for some reason. The crew reaches Île de Cratère, a bustling trading town. While in the market, Anlee is ambushed by an elderly man, but the situation is diffused by his grandson. The party also meets the crew of the The Icicle Reaver, including Zeene, Ethesko, and a young man named Cydney who Laoch recognises as her lost brother. He doesn't seem to remember her at all, though. Later, the crew is hired to investigate missing fishermen in the crater lake, which leads to a dramatic battle against an ancient sea serpent which almost kills everyone but Ethesko. Cydney, revealed to be Laoch’s long-lost brother, joins the crew, and they sail off towards Cinoh.

Chapter 5 - The Devils of Cinoh

The party arrives in Cinoh after navigating through a lunar blockade, where they split up for various errands. They find a wanted poster for Belanar and, after confirming Anlee’s father is absent, they head to the Citadel. There, they meet Princess Aite, acting as shogun, and Prince Miyoshi who seems to be in charge. Discussions reveal rising political tensions, with Prince Miyoshi pushing for Cinoh’s independence and warship construction, but the Akumakai Yakuza family's leader Daimaō Damien wanting to take over the country with his public appeal. They also meet Monk Watate, an advisor who ends up teaching many things to Boz. The group learns that both the Crimsons and Cinoh seek an alliance, and investigate a warehouse in the undeground Mist Market for evidence linking the Akumakai and Damien to the assassination of the former shogun. Encountering shinobi and engaging in a fierce battle, during which they uncover a letter asking for the shogun's assassination. They set off towards Taiyo to gather more information directly from the Akumakai compound, and Prince Miyoshi joins them on this travel. They track down a shadowy figure in an enchanted forest, this confrontation leads to a harrowing battle against the real undead Yoru, who is ultimately sent back to the Shadowfell.

Upon reaching the Akumakai Compound during Damien’s birthday party, the party employs clever disguises and stealth tactics to infiltrate and investigate. Sif, Elise, and Miyoshi discover compromising documents in Damien’s office but are ultimately caught and captured. D'Vorah uses magic to turn one of the samurai into a T-Rex, allowing the group to escape the compound amidst chaos. They regroup at an inn, where plans are made to confront Damien, who is now seen as a significant threat to Cinoh. Anlee recruits one of his old friends, Haru Kira, for help. The party directly attacks the Akumakai compound, battling through waves of Samurai and killing Kiriba Daimao, Daimien's sister. They free Sif and Elise, but learn that its too late and that Damien has killed Miyoshi, and is truly in league with Aite herself.

On the ship heading back to Port Cinoh, Anlee reconnects with the spirits and memories of his ancestors within Suiryuto under Monk Watate's guidance. The group enlists the help of the Shidono Monks to bolster their numbers against Damien and the Akumakai. During a fierce battle in the throne room against Damien and Aite, Damien transforms into a demon-like monster and Aite almost kills them all with meteors. Finally, D'Vorah kills Damien, leaving everyone shaken. A debate ensues regarding Cinoh's future, and for a moment Anlee is given the choice to take over as Shogun, but he refuses. Laoch proposes the establishment of a council to limit the power of the Shogun. Princess Aite reluctantly agrees to this restructuring. The party ultimately decides to leave Cinoh and head towards the Anchorage of Whispers.

Chapter 6 - The Siege of Tikius

Elise uses a Sending spell to check on Roonan's condition and asks that Zolen follow up with his contacts. Boz takes a moment on the deck to reflect on Monk Watate's teachings, while Amari reports an infestation of rats that has consumed their food supply. Elise casts Hypnotic Pattern to charm the rats, allowing the crew to manage the situation, as Laoch advises Amari against feeding them anymore.

The party stops at Fort Rawan around 2 AM to restock on supplies. They learn about an impending siege on Tikius and encounter the arrogant Dr. Lord Volnax Blackwood The First, who refuses to answer their questions. Sif steals a flask of crude oil from Volnax before the party encounters a drunken fanatic speaking of ‘The Pure Light’ and an ancient legend about the world of chaos and order. This conversation triggers Elise to call upon a gem draconic spirit, which reveals that Elise’s mother is still alive but cannot be sensed. The party heads towards the Anchorage after sunset. They remember that Shoila technically comitted a crime in the Anchorage last time. As Elise tries to warn Shoila about Xaniv's harsh penalties, Xaniv magically levitates and chokes her. The crew attempts to bargain with Xaniv to release Shoila, but he remains unyielding. Elise casts Death Ward on herself before Xaniv attempts to extract her brain. Though she nearly dies, the spell saves her. After healing, the party learns they must meet Xaniv at the bathhouse.

Xaniv demands the party's history as payment for information and reveals that Elise’s mother is the pirate lord Xiphalia. Boz questions him about the abyssgate, and Xaniv ultimately reveals he is the Abyssgate, manipulating events for his own gain. He is revealed to be the true villain behind everything. As they leave, D'vorah vows to kill Xaniv. Xaniv orders the hunting of the party, scattering a symbol of Varkanus into a pool. Later that night, Elise and Laoch share stories to cope with nightmares, while D'Vorah detects danger. Horrors descend upon the ship, leading to a fierce battle. Anlyth is killed in the fight, and despite attempts to resurrect him, his spirit refuses to return. The party gives Anlyth a sea burial, mourning their loss as they head towards Tikius.

The party remains in mourning following Anlyth's death, with Boz repairing the ship. Elise gives a motivational speech, urging the crew to keep fighting. Around midday, the party docks at the Silver Songbird Rummery, where they learn more about the impending crimson siege of Tikius from Zorahim. In Tikius, they meet Fek, a Githzerai florist who joins their cause. In Belanar's Bar, they persuade a disheartened Belanar to fight against the Crimsons. However, Xesk, a follower of Xaniv, arrives to demand Belanar surrender his piece of eight. A battle ensues, with Xesk using mind blasts to turn pirates into zombies. The party fights fiercely, with D'Vorah countering spells and Fek wielding his Sunforger hammer. Though they defeat Xesk, he escapes using Plane Shift, leaving Belanar sober and resolved to fight back.

As dawn breaks, the party prepares for the siege, setting traps and barricades along the docks. A fleet of about twenty ships approaches, led by Isabeau’s ship of the line, the Columbine. Volnaxokaaz transforms into a Black Dragon and wreaks havoc on Tikius. The party engages in battle against Volnax and his Siegeforged automatons. After an intense fight, they manage to take down Volnax, but the aftermath reveals they are surrounded by Faithkeepers and Redcoats. Just when things seem dire, Belanar’s crew arrives to assist, cutting through the enemy ranks. The party, now ready for the final confrontation, boards Isabeau's ship, where they face her and her forces. They withstand a fierce fight until the Cinohan Navy intervenes, turning the tide. They capture Isabeau and, despite heavy losses, negotiate a new peace with Mr. Urata, leading to Tikius being taken over by Cinoh. Belanar passes his piece of eight to Sif, making her the new Pirate Lord of Greed. As the party reflects on their journey, they appreciate Fek’s contributions and bond over their shared experiences, with Elise expressing her growing fondness for the pirate life. Boz hints at unresolved issues stemming from his encounter with Xaniv.

Act 3 - Sins of the Past

Chapter 7 - Court of the Crimson King

On the day of the Nosalia Harvest Festival, the party hears rumors about a significant bounty on the Nebula and that Laoch may be a lunar agent. D'Vorah proposes a scheme to Sif to turn a large rock into gold, using Sif's pirate lordship to aid in the conversion. After successfully transforming the stone, D'Vorah takes the gold while the rest of the party uses theirs to help repair the city. They receive a letter marked with higher importance, which is revealed to be from Grand General Zoan Mistgleam on behalf of King Sombra, pardoning their past desertion and inviting them to Sombus for a meeting. The group also discusses D'Vorah's newfound healing powers, which he attributes to divine support from his god Omegus, causing concern for Fek, whose god Magmus opposes D'Vorah’s.

As they sail towards Jasiv, a city filled with history and magic, the party explores local shops and gathers supplies. They discover the city houses the Blackwood Institute of Science, a facility where dangerous experiments are conducted. Cydney reveals that he was taken in by the Crimson Navy after waking up with amnesia eight years ago and urges the group to break into the facility to destroy research that could empower a sadistic figure, Volnax II. Under the cover of night, they manage to infiltrate the lab, confronting strange creatures and a powerful biomancer. A fierce battle ensues, during which they successfully rescue a captive Mindflayer named Vass, who shares knowledge about the experiments and the dangers they face. After the heist, Vass joins the party, and they journey to the Crimson City, where they meet King Sombra in his study. He explains that he needs their help to retrieve a powerful dagger, the Lightclaw, before it can be misused by its original wielder, Kol Han, who poses a potential threat to the world. Sombra provides them with a Bag of Holding to transport the dagger safely, as its corrupting nature could endanger any who attempt to wield it. He offers assistance with their current issues, particularly concerning the Abyssgate, and promises to aid them further.

As they set off to a new location, the party encounters Fa'azha, a grumpy tabaxi ranger, who leads them through treacherous Everswamp, cautioning them about lurking dangers. He chastises Laoch for abandoning her traditional roots. In the depths of the Everswamp, the party navigates through uncomfortable conditions, with Elise documenting the hardships of heroism. Tensions rise among the group, particularly between D'Vorah and Laoch, as they bicker about their roles. Amid the chaos, Fa'azha, frustrated with the arguing, tries to maintain focus while Zob, Boz's alter ego, makes 'humorous' but mean interjections. As the party attempts to sneak past a pair of arguing trolls, their plans go awry when D'Vorah's armor makes too much noise, resulting in a battle. The trolls are beaten, and then there's a menacing spinosaurus attack, which exhausts the group. They escape, albeit with some members sustaining injuries and lingering issues from Boz's split personality. As night falls, the group, still affected by recent nightmares, opts to push through the swamp. They discover Corpse Flowers, which unleash zombies when disturbed. During the encounter, the spinosaurus reappears, leading to a fierce battle against both the flowers and the creature. Fek's powerful presence boosts morale, and the group eventually prevails, allowing them to camp at the edge of the swamp. The next day, Fek shares a vivid dream of his god, Magmus, which sparks conversations about their histories. Boz recounts his tumultuous past and his connection to a pirate lord, hinting at deeper secrets.

In their journey's continuation, the party encounters a Nightmare Kalashtar that initially blocks their path. A confrontation ensues, but the Kalashtar realizes the party's sincerity and leads them to ancient ruins, where they activate an elevator that takes them deep underground. Inside, they face off against four-armed statues and a gargoyle, defeating them with coordinated attacks. Finally, they confront Markal Zuriel, a red angel with dark wings, who guards the powerful Lightclaw dagger. The battle reveals Markal's corrupted state and his connection to the dagger's overwhelming power. After a series of intense exchanges, the party decides to let Markal keep the dagger but come with them. He expresses confusion about the modern world and reveals his tragic history intertwined with the dagger. As they travel back, the group prepares to seek help from Sombra, contemplating the implications of Markal's story and the power of the dagger they carry.

In the days leading up to Ashrest, the crew of the Nebula arrives at Faypass, where the town is bustling with preparations for the celebration. As they dock, Amari notes the unusual purple alien moss growing around the ship. Despite concerns about the moss, Vass insists it enhances the ship, sparking further discussion among the crew about their mysterious surroundings and the influence of Xaniv. While exploring the area, they find a bar known for attracting pirates. Here, they learn about missing artificers and see graffiti linked to a cult, prompting them to investigate. Their search leads them to an abandoned school where they uncover a map to a nearby island. The island houses an old church dedicated to Deltus, and upon further exploration, the crew discovers a hidden staircase beneath the altar, which leads to a chamber filled with strange humanoid creatures and the remains of missing engineers. Faced with an overwhelming threat, they decide to engage in battle. The confrontation with these creatures reveals a mechanical Kraken, and after a fierce fight utilizing their various skills and spells, the party ultimately manages to defeat the Kraken.

As the main crew continues their journey toward Faypass, they share personal reflections and form bonds. The mood shifts dramatically when they encounter a fearsome undead warrior named Zanisa, now known as Ballista Aries, who demands the dagger from Mark. The ensuing battle is intense, resulting in the tragic death of Fa'azha. Despite the chaos, Mark's memories of his past become clearer as they learn more about the history of the Omniborn. The next day brings a sense of celebration with Ashrest festivities, during which the crew reconnects and strengthens their camaraderie. They also discover that the ship, now imbued with life thanks to the alien moss of Vass, can teleport, allowing them to travel swiftly to Sombus. D'vorah and Fek also go on a date in the city.

Chapter 8 - Reconvening

King Sombra rewards them, allowing Mark to stay in Sombus for safety. The group decides to recruit the seven lords to help with the abyssgate before dealing with Xaniv and his phylactery. They meet Xoe at Yizuko Labs, where D'vorah receives a dragonsteel sword and agrees to study at the Carminus Universum. On their journey, Elise encounters Nyx again, leading them to Shipwreck City, where they face Xiphalia. The encounter reveals that Golzoorhah, an amethyst dragon, was hiding within Xiphalia's mind all along. He needs their help to destroy the abyssgate, and Elise grapples with the emotional fallout of this revelation.

The following day, the crew arrives at Countess Fenya Cetrovna's casino, the Broken Quill, near Canau. After an initial standoff with Uragan again, they engage in a bard-off that ends in a close victory. They encounter Karboniv Agents, including Bolt Karboniv and Princess Aite, and learn of a debt owed to Cetrovna. As chaos unfolds, Uragan distracts the agents while Laoch and Cetrovna escape, leading to the Countess joining their cause for the Pirate Court. However, the next morning reveals tensions among the party, particularly concerning Boz's split persona, Zob. Through a mental journey advised by Golzoorhah, they enter Boz's mind and manage to reach a compromise between the two personalities.

The crew teleports to Taltigo to confront Lyn, who is under the influence of Qarex, a fire Genasi who is revealed to be an archdevil. Despite attempts to gather information, Nyx is charmed and incapacitated. A confrontation ensues, culminating in a fierce battle where Qarex drains Nyx's life force. Eventually, Laoch manages to slay Qarex, but the victory comes at a cost—Nyx's death. He is revived but loses an arm, prompting him to step back from adventures. The party returns to Sif's orphanage, addressing some potential embezzlement. Later, Elise has a heartfelt reunion with her mother, Xiphalia.

After gathering more information, the party teleports to Chanmasek, discovering the city under siege by demons as the abyssgate is now actually open. They engage in battle, driving the demons back before meeting Baron Baoshi, who offers support. The party meditates to gain insights into their foe, Xaniv, learning of his tragic past and transformation into a powerful undead being. The visions reveal his creation of a phylactery, a gold coin with a hole, and his lost connection to Varkanus. Shoila warns the party of impending trouble with pirate lord Anila Khai due to their recent interference in his slavery operation. The group teleports to Casthys, where Shoila guides them through a cavern to the Ashpits fighting ring. They encounter Yatra again, battling an Orc Eye of Magmus. After Yatra's victory, Anila Khai, who oversees the area, questions the party about their intentions. Fek is then challenged to a duel by Anila, and despite a fierce battle, he emerges victorious, earning the Demogorgon Tooth, a piece of seven. The party learns of Anila's complex history with Shoila, and after some discussions, they recruit Yatra for future battles.

The party is sent to Arrecife del Verano, where they warn the locals of potential demonic attacks and seek information about Laoch’s parents, the Redfields. They meet Roonan, who reveals that he was imprisoned but freed by Zolen. He provides them with a map indicating a nearby prison and offers to help rescue Laoch's parents, who have been held captive for eight years. The party devises a plan using Teleport and Plane Shift to infiltrate the prison. Back on the ship, Roonan's return brings confusion among the crew, but Shoila is pleased to see him again. As the ship sets sail, Elise expresses her trust in Shoila, while Boz continues his antics with D'Vorah. The party teleports into the prison but is immediately engulfed by an antimagic field. They stealthily take down Faithforged guards and make their way to the cells where Alastorm and Phaona are held. A fight ensues, resulting in a fireball being cast recklessly by Alastorm, putting Laoch in danger. After defeating the guards, Elise and Boz confront Alastorm, demanding an apology, which he reluctantly gives. D'Vorah discovers his old friend Osmund in a nearby cell but refuses to save him without a promise of information about House Zolotov. D'vorah ends up killing him. They escape the prison by plane shifting to the City of Brass within the Elemental Plane of Fire, where they meet a Vezaborn shopkeeper named Israa, who offers a legendary weapon in exchange for a Blood Cactus. Back in Shipwreck City, Emotional conversations unfold, particularly between Elise and Phaona over their shared losses, and Elise has a colder-than-expected exchange with Xiphalia.

Chapter 9 - Breaking Curses

The party teleports to Isla Tumba, investigating the abandoned shack of Can and his father. They find signs of a struggle and old blood, but when D'Vorah tries to contact the child via sending, he receives no response. Noticing footprints belonging to Crimson Soldiers, Laoch stays the night on watch but sees nothing unusual. They learn that Xaniv has killed Amohr, and taken the Black Scroll for himself.

The party teleports to Varkunast for the blood cactus. D'Vorah senses a dreadful aura emanating from the central dome, which draws fearful glances from the locals. After asking about a cactus, they venture into the desert, only to be caught in an ash storm that drains Sif's energy. Despite the conditions, they manage to find a small red cactus, collect a few samples, and then D'Vorah Plane Shifts them to the City of Brass, where they take rest, get the potions of ashen blood, as well as the legendary Zaenokr axe for Fek. The party returns to Varkunast and heads to the central dome, where they discover a massacre filled with corpses. Laoch sneaks ahead and spots Daskl, the Champion of Omegus, alongside several undead. Combat ensues, and after an intense fight, the party manages to defeat Daskl, although he appears not to truly die. Varkanus unexpectedly appears, revealing he has plans for the party, indicating that they are watched by many gods. He absolves them of their transgressions for killing Genso and encroaching on his temple but warns of Xaniv's growing influence. D'vorah acts too prideful, leading to Varkanus killing him and Elise having to revive him.

As time passes, the group reflects on personal matters and family dynamics. Elise reconciles with her mother and bonds with her, while Laoch reunites with her family and discusses future plans. All pirate lords gather for a council meeting, deciding on a course of action against common threats. After the discussion, they plan to sail together towards the center of the Cometfall Sea. Golzoorhah reveals he has located Xaniv’s phylactery, and the party embarks on a dangerous mission to the Astral Plane. They confront a Githyanki patrol and ultimately find and secure Xaniv’s phylactery while defeating one of his Alhoon underlings. The fleet approaches the heart of the Cometfall Sea, and demons attack everyone. During the chaos, the Demogorgon emerges from the abyssgate, and Xaniv attempts to bind him to weaken him. A fierce battle ensues between the party and Demogorgon, ultimately leading to the demon's defeat. However, Xaniv's attempts to absorb Varkanus' essence, binding the god and causing a green sky and a blood-red sea across the planet. The final fight over the Abyssgate against Xaniv and his underlings ensues, resuling in a hard-fought victory for the party. They kill Xaniv, whose body disappears into the Abyss alongside Varkanus himself.

As normalcy returns, the party who just saved the world celebrates their victory and discusses future plans. Elise continues teaching, Laoch and Sif establish a pirate haven in the Anchorage of Whispers, and D'Vorah begins teaching magic. Fek and D'Vorah settle down in Tikius, while Boz seeks contenders for another Tournament of Champions, setting the stage for new adventures ahead. Finally, Belanar becomes the new official governor of Tikius.