Family Matters Ch. 15

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

In the Northeast of the upper continental mass of Sloane sits a conundrum of a city: Stargrave. Nestled between the Barrier Mountain Range to the west and the Unending Seas to the east in the transitional forests of the Gathering Storm, a city of opposing but interconnected sides quietly exerts influence on the rest of the world.

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

The Serpent's Strait Ch. 6

We pick up where we left off the morning after the party's stakeout of sorts. It seems as if Ursus was not the only person visited last night, as we learn Bob also came in contact with an unfamiliar figure, presumably an Ashen Child. The party splits for the morning, with the Slash Bros at the temple, where they find Sister Flinthorn, who discusses Ursus' evening encounter with the Ashen Children and receives a refresher course on who the Silent Keeper is. Back at the tavern, where the rest of...

Family Matters Ch. 14

Amid a chaotic tactical retreat, the party is scattered and under heavy pressure. Arguile is locked in combat with a draegloth, Shanks is on the brink of death, Yurik is struggling to reconnect with the group, and Galahad, glowing and highly visible, draws relentless enemy fire while attempting evasive maneuvers. Zechs deploys an axe beak from his Tan Bag of Tricks to disrupt the draegloth, while Duo delivers Shanks’ chained alchemist fire to further weaken it, allowing Salix to extract Arguile by eagle. Meanwhile, Galahad is struck by a lightning arrow an...

Family Matters Ch. 13

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

Meanwhile, injured and starting to...

Hey everyone, and welcome to the eighteenth Divergent Paths cut scene. This particular character has only appeared once in the podcast thus far, in Episode 62, The Herald of Tiamat. For those of you who have been with us since the beginning, you finally get a peek inside the mind of Galahad's mentor, Antonius. The party doesn't know this information, but you do.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

The Serpent's Strait Ch. 5

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

Eventually, a plan emerges to investigate the depths of...

Family Matters Ch. 12

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

Meanwhile, the party faces off against an iron g...

Family Matters Ch. 11

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

Family Matters Ch. 10

We pick back up in the midst of the group’s current skirmish and ambush against an unending number of foes. It’s a stressful and taxing fight on every level. As time passes and resources are exhausted, the group begins to make some headway, but their brief moment of reprieve is met with even more opposition. It’s a numbers game, and the enemy has them in spades. Knowing this, they continue to fight their way through and into the city. Eventually, they finally see the end of this wave of ass...

Following the intense battles with Malar and Enich, Zechs collapses in exhaustion and is taken to his parents’ home to recover. At the same time, Galahad marks the ritual site to prevent further sacrifices. That evening, the party celebrates their hard-won victory at the Faint Mandolin and Jaded Kitty Kat, sharing drinks, reflections, and heartfelt moments—Turk earns his title “THE Turk,” and Greyleaf connects deeply with him over magic and family. Before the night ends, the mysterious Ickra appears with critical news: updates from JM, the status of Argo, warnings of fiend activity in Ors Themar, threats to the arca...

The Serpent's Strait Ch. 4

Upon arriving at Midmount, the party begins investigating a series of strange events. Thorak, disguised as “Snorak” using his hat of disguise, gathers information from the locals under the pretense of being a new foreman. Rumors of a mine explosion and memory issues surface, and as they journey further into town, Thorak continues his ruse to gain access to the city center. They’re led by a woman named Sam to Lua Hugh, another foreman. Still, their vague story about missing shipments and lack of documentation gets them quickly dismissed, until...

Family Matters Ch. 9

Within the city walls, the group makes their way through the once thriving city, now unrecognizable as its streets are barren. The group cautiously makes its way through the city, careful not to draw any attention. A formation is called out, and they proceed, ready for whatever dangers lie ahead of them. Unfortunately, their caution was met with curiosity, and when Arguile investigated the gargoyle, that curiosity was then met with flame. Most of the group is hit, and immediately the party realizes that a fight is underway. Shanks unloads a...

Family Matters Ch. 8

As the group continues heading towards the city of Ors Themar, they pass more denizens of the Underdark: an umberhulk and a hook horror, to be precise. As Galahad asks Yurik if he knows the way to continue, Shanks, who had scouted ahead, tells Zechs in his Spies Murmur that he hears voices ahead. After Zechs tells him to get closer but be careful, Shanks, unfamiliar with the language the voices are using, immediately realizes they are speaking Undercommon. Zechs relays that they are talking about the party, and they seem...

Hey everyone, and welcome to the seventeenth Divergent Paths cut scene. This particular character has only appeared twice in the podcast thus far, in Episode 65, Entrapment, and Episodes 85/86 Cavern Brawl Part 1 & 2. We will keep the details sparse, but let's just say that they play an important role in the overall story moving forward. The party doesn't know this information, but you do.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

The Serpent's Strait Ch. 3

The group starts their day preparing for the voyage to Midmount, with mixed feelings about crossing the ocean. Chan is visibly anxious, running between her room and downstairs, mainly worried about being a fire hazard on a wooden boat. Valen offers his magical flask to ease her nerves. Bob sings a sea shanty from his mentor, Rosco, while Dona expresses her apprehension about traveling by water. Thankfully, Thorak ensures everyone is well-fed with his signature large meals. Upon arrival at the docks, the group is guided by an automaton to...

Family Matters Ch. 7

We resume with the group in the midst of a fight against giant spiders. They have to fight in tight quarters and carefully, but manage to come out victorious. As the group continues to venture forward, it continues to question Yurik’s peculiar behavior. After some gentle prodding, Yurik comes halfway clean about his current situation. His sword is not only sentient but also drives him to slay creatures every so often, it seems. While some of the party members are familiar with sentient weapons and the magical energies this blade gi...

Family Matters Ch. 6

The party resumes their evening watch rotation, beginning with Arguile and Yurik, who open up to one another about their pasts, sharing stories that highlight their respective journeys. Zechs and The Turk take the second shift, engaging in a reflective conversation about the bonds they’ve built within the group. Although both acknowledge that their time together may be temporary, they find comfort in the growing trust between them. Zechs shares how he came to join Collateral, while The Turk discusses his pre-party life. For the final watch, Galahad fills in fo...

The party dives headfirst into shenanigans, but Zechs quickly steers the mood in a serious direction—proposing to speak directly with Malar. Despite the risks, Galahad and Hoshino agree to help facilitate the meeting, ensuring safeguards are in place. The conversation with Malar is cryptic and frustrating, confirming more through evasion than answers. With no more straightforward path forward, Zechs severs the connection. They head toward the vineyard and soon stumble into a vision of Sloane’s past—Zechs, Arguile, Salix, and Glad transported to the Second Age. There, they witness the growing tensions between the Pantheran Pantheon and Malar’...

The Serpent's Strait Ch. 2

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

Family Matters Ch. 5

We pick back up with the group wrapping up dinner and figuring out watches for the night’s rest. We have The Turk and Yurik first, whose conversation begins with The Turk apologizing for putting Yurik up for a fight with Galahad, and then transitions into a discussion about family, upbringing, and their current situation. Arguile and Zechs are on second watch, where Zechs apologizes to Arguile for not being there for him as often as he thinks he should be. Arguile hears him out further but assures him that no ap...

Family Matters Ch. 4

Ah, where were we? Yes, the never-ending forest and the suspicious woman in the cabin. The group finds itself still stuck in this loop and getting very frustrated by the process. Galahad now approaches the cabin with The Turk in tow and has a heated conversation with a perplexed woman named Mal, whom the group attempts to explain that she has met before. She tells the group that they are more than welcome inside, and she can make them some tea, which has a mix of reactions and responses. The Turk...

Family Matters Ch. 3

We pick back up with the party visiting Arguile’s contact, the Shade, again to negotiate the terms of the deal for Galahad’s belt. After this, the group returns to see Mr. Strauss, who asks Arguile if he would like to see Dorna to confirm his truthfulness. There is a momentary pause as Dorna turns to where Yurik has presented the party, as she drops her tea cup, leaps over the couch, and embraces Arguile. Mother and son reunited, the two are relieved to have found each other after such a lo...

The vast, reed-like grassland known as The Burned is home to a great many strange and unique fauna and flora. However, these pale in comparison to the roaming city of Karvasii.

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

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

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card...

The Serpent's Strait Ch. 1

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

Family Matters Ch. 2

The party splits, with Salix and Glad heading to the Crystal Gardens to enjoy some rare city-bound nature, while the rest accompany Arguile to meet Mr. Strauss. Upon arrival, they’re surprised to learn Arguile is expected. They follow him upstairs, where they’re greeted by a frail-looking half-elf named Yurrik Strauss. After brief introductions, Arguile, revealing himself as Sylas Nicks, asks about his mother, Dorna. Yurrik, though guarded, shares that his son Enich went to Ors Themar to investigate a growing fiend presence but has since lost contact. In exchange for...

Family Matters Ch. 1

We pick up with Arguile and Mira as she gives Arguile some updates regarding the city, information that’s relevant to finding his mother, and hands over the stash that she held for him. She informs him that his mother has been seen with a gentleman known as Yurrik Strauss and gives a description and possible locations for him. Back at the suite, they find that Elmira has delivered their new clothing as requested and even exceeded several party members’ expectations. As everyone enjoys a hearty breakfast, Arguile explains how his guil...

Check out the latest actual play from the Medusa's Cascade team: The Mercurial Avengers! This is the prologue that sets the stage for the adventures. If you've been wondering what the story that Greyleaf wasn't willing to tell, here is your chance to find out.

Theme by Efflorescence

Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

Many characters appear in this campaign, and quite a few have joined Collateral Damage for varying lengths. Listen to the Journeyman’s audio logs about these characters to better understand their origins. We continue the series with the mysterious Rig from Shanks's past.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

The Scorching Sun Ch. 10

As the group continues to traverse and make their way through the dungeon, they come upon a room with a table and several steins of ale laid across it. Chantico, Dona, and Urusus are suddenly compelled to go and have a drink. Before they all make their way to do so, the rest of the party members, understanding something is amiss, do their best to wake their party members up and out of their current conditions. Dona and Chan do come to, but Ursus has a more difficult time than...

Ancient History Ch. 19

Much like anyone’s first time in an unfamiliar space, there is a lot to take in and a lot of questions to ask. Some might do research and some prep beforehand, but not OUR party. Arguile will later regret this decision, but while he feels right at home in Nakoroa, the rest of the party are like fish out of water with no idea as to how to move about in this new ocean of sorts. There was a lot of answering questions, trying out unfamiliar modes of transportation, and re...

Ancient History Ch. 18

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

The party finalizes preparations before departing Drose, including the creation of valuable scrolls from an old Arcanaloth spellbook and a successful gamble that earns Shanks a plastique recipe. On the Swift Hummingbird, Shanks and Greyleaf have a heartfelt conversation about Greyleaf’s transformation and his past as Kyver, establishing trust while reflecting on how far they’ve come. Upon reaching the snowy Barrier Range, the party adapts to the harsh conditions—especially Zechs, whose enhanced senses from Malar’s gift make the journey uncomfortable. At the Goliath village, Galahad meets with Pakia and shares his lineage, which is recognized and resp...

The Scorching Sun Ch. 9

We open up with the party, resting a bit, and going through their new loot. Ursus gets Thorak’s thoughts on his new crown to the group. With rest had, the group continues their dungeon crawl and encounters two cave trolls as Ursus kicks down a door, and Thorak launches two spider legs, like javelins, at one of them, dealing a good bit of damage. The fight ensues with the party as the victors and the trolls as charred remains. The group takes a second to catch their breath. There is...

Ancient History Ch. 17

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

Ancient History Ch. 16

Zechs regains consciousness following his intense battles with Malar and Enich, slipping into a vivid dream that revisits the night of his childhood sacrifice. This time, the memory is clearer: he remembers around two dozen other young tabaxi present and a once-unidentifiable cloaked figure now unmistakably revealed to be The Constable. With yellow eyes, pale skin, silver-gray hair, and dragon-like scales on his face, The Constable addresses Zechs as "Quill," claiming his actions stem not from malice but destiny. He tells Quill he holds the power to be either salvation or...

Ancient History Ch. 15

After the fights, Zechs collapses from exhaustion; he’s not in harm's way, but shows no signs of waking up. Before leaving the site, Galahad displays a sign ensuring that no more sacrifices will happen here, as per the vow of the Champion of Bahamut. The group takes Zechs to his parents’ place so he can rest and wake up in a familiar setting with his parents watching him. The night is young, and after a night like they had, revelry is long overdue. With that, they head out to the Fain...

Hey everyone, welcome to the sixteenth Divergent Paths cut scene. This scene shows us the second part of the tail end of the story of a character that we have yet to meet in the campaign, but is a vital part of Shankise's backstory. The party doesn't know this information, but now you do.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

The Scorching Sun Ch. 8

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

Ancient History Ch. 14

The battle had commenced for both teams… Maybe it was a sign of fortune, divinity, or whatever you may wish to think, but the team worked together, dealing heavy damage to Malar and Enich. Galahad shows the divine wrath of Bahamut when Malar goes after Zechs and deals an impressive blow. Turk more than shows his abilities in spades, as he uses his form of dread to inflict fear on the god of the Wild Hunt. After which Zechs deals some up close and personal shots at Malar, imbued with a to...

Ancient History Ch. 13

The group meets back up, some still in their Tabaxi guise, but pauses conversing to check if anyone is following the group. A quick check confirms that there was someone, but they are no longer there when Shanks investigates. They are relieved to arrive at the inn and see that the Magnificent Mansion is still there. One of the servants relays a message from Hoshino to the group, apologizing for his abrupt departure but assuring them he will be back and offering endearment to them all. As the message ends, they...

Hey everyone, welcome to the fifteenth Divergent Paths cut scene. This scene shows us the tail end of the story of a character that we have yet to meet in the campaign, but is a vital part of Shankise's backstory. The party doesn't know this information, but now you do.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

The Scorching Sun Ch. 7

The group heads towards the Dispatch Service and meets with Cevari again, who greets them before leading them towards Faerith. They meet the high-elf dispatch manager, taking in the minimalist design before asking their questions about where the book has been shipped from and possibly information about who has been sending it. While they can’t get much of the privileged client information, they learn that 35 books have been shipped, primarily from Balazaar. After receiving what information they can, they head out and explore other options. Dona uses her ranger ab...

Ancient History Ch. 12

With Malar's avatar calling for the start of the Wild Hunt, the currently awestruck party sneakily breaks away from the cultists and decides to follow closely but stealthily to figure out how to stop Malar. Upon re-entering Nymora, it is a scene of pure chaos; the group sees the avatars of Nianke, Nireana, and Xidea come into corporeal form to stand against the avatar of Malar while the avatars of Aphy, Tumra, and Gosyn see to the aid of the citizens. The battle is intense and happens quickly, with Xidea delivering...

Ancient History Ch. 11

We return to a tense scene as Arguile, Glad, Salix, and Zechs attempt to deceive the cultists as they nervously try to figure out their next steps. While their deception works, the cultists still find themselves drawn to Zechs, for reasons they can't quite put their finger on. Eventually, they are asked to join and watch the cult perform a ritual. There's a lot of chanting, a familiar dagger, and a body that goes into the fire and begins transforming… It's an unsettling scene, and one that sends a chill down th...

Ancient History Ch. 10

Arguile, Glad, Salix, and Zechs find themselves inexplicably transported to the distant past, landing in Sloane’s Second Age rather than the Nymora of their time. Struggling to understand their predicament, they attempt to gather information discreetly, but Zechs inadvertently reveals their origins. This earns him a referral to the priestess of Nireana and ultimately to the priestess of Tumra, where he becomes visibly disturbed by the revelations he receives. Meanwhile, in the present, the rest of the party watches their companions in a catatonic state, their eyes glazed over. Shanks an...

The party’s investigation leads them to a library filled with rich historical texts on magic and a long-forgotten map of Sloane. They later explore an old battlefield under Dreg’s guidance, finding an empty grave with signs that someone once buried had clawed their way out. They return to town to find Hoshino recovering, who confesses to triggering the ancient calamity of Sloane through a pact with a force called Antithesis—an enemy of the Daughters of Flame. The party, though shaken, offers support. Upon reviewing Iolan’s journals, they discover that she may have also been linked to Antit...

The Scorching Sun Ch. 6

The group’s moment of rest was just that, as an explosion was heard and fire erupted in the Witty Glaive. The varying members of the party are trying to assess the situation, wake up the other party members, and do what they can to stop it when they come across some otherworldly beings that are the very culprits of the fire. As the group begins to fight off these creatures, which are pointed out to be similar to Bob’s tentacle, Elizabeth is not a result of Bob’s doing...

Ancient History Ch. 9

At this point, it’s normal for this group; shenanigans are how we start the next part of the story. Arguile gives in and has some hot sauce and fire whiskey, which do not sit well with our tiefling friend. A weary Zechs approaches Hoshino and Galahad sometime after the fun wraps up. What seems to be a regular part of their playbook at this point, Zechs asks if they’d humor his seemingly insane idea… actively speaking to Malar. To his surprise, while they clarify how that can go wrong, they a...

Ancient History Ch. 8

We return to the group on their way back to Nymora. Zechs helps Shanks out with his stealth and uses the Hunter’s Mark spell. Later, Zechs and Greyleaf discuss what they should do with Zechs’ need for vengeance regarding Alma. Greyleaf offers his insight and empathy, which Zechs accepts, but lets him know that it may take some time before it is entirely received. Hoshino raises the idea of doing Legend Lore on Zechs’ bow, and Zechs assures the bard he is grateful for the answers he received. While he has mo...

On the western coast of Granzia, built on and in the cliffs of Deep Salt Stone, sits the seafaring city of Nereas. Constructed around the River Nere, Nereas has a long and storied history with trading and the people of the Western Seas.

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

VO: Lawrence Bentiné Jr, Jaime of d20d...

The Scorching Sun Ch. 5

Captain Dan runs off to find a healer as the group attempts to alleviate Izca's suffering. As this happens, Bob mentions that he heard about the book and that it can alter a person upon reading it. This is likely what occurred to Izca. The boys decide to go back to the crime scene to search for clues while Dona stays to watch Izca and keep an eye out for the healer. Finding one needle in a thousand haystacks is more manageable, but they go forth. They do, however, see...

Ancient History Ch. 7

The group, now back on board the Swift Hummingbird, discussed heading to Yahnkoshi so Hoshino could visit his home, investigate the reappearance of Eldertwine, and see what the town is like all these ages later. Galahad wonders if he could come with him so he is not alone. Still, Hoshino tells him that while Galahad is immune to diseases, this disease is magical, and he does not want to risk his health if he isn’t immune to this particular disease. After expending all ideas, suggestions, and everything in between, the sh...

Ancient History Ch 6

After a night of revelry, drinking games, fights, and celebration, the team wakes up in various locations, some unsure of how they got there. They plan over breakfast as they gather and prepare for their next destination. Afterward, Galahad seeks out Pakia for answers to his questions about his ancestors, “Those Who Wandered,” and the side of the story he would not have heard unless he was there. She goes on to say that during a time of warfare, there was an Illithid incursion starting in the northern reaches of the Rang...

Many characters appear in this campaign, and quite a few have joined Collateral Damage for varying lengths. Listen to the Journeyman’s audio logs about these characters to better understand their origins. We continue the series with the steadfast Voyas.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

Hey everyone, welcome to the fourteenth Divergent Paths cut scene. This scene sheds a bit more light on a business opportunity that the party took part in while they were in the city of Nymora after their escapades in the Glasmeda Isles. The party doesn't know this information, but now you do.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

The Scorching Sun Ch. 4

The party's troubles begin as they breach the Siren’s Song shop, attempting stealth before chaos ensues. Valen's misstep on a creaky floorboard triggers magical darkness, and Thorak uses thaumaturgy to announce their presence. In the basement, lifeless bodies spring to life, emitting poison as they engage the group in battle. While the party fights efficiently, they face Izca, the shop’s owner, armed with deadly abilities and the "Death Lance." Izca wields a deadman’s switch, signaling her resolve not to surrender. Despite the challenges, Ursus, with Dona’s help, kn...

Ancient History Ch. 5

We pick back up with the party’s exhibition matches. While the rogues had matches that went as expected, they were not without their moments of surprise from each of them. The fight that left everyone on the edge of their seats was between The Champion of Bahamut & The Gathakanathi General. While Galahad dominated the first part of this fight, putting all the combat experience he’s had thus far to use, Tharia managed to fight back and overwhelm the paladin. With the match approaching its end, Galahad summons the power of K...

Ancient History Ch. 4

In what seems to be par for the course with this group… We pick back up as the group enjoys some of Welby’s Special Blend from an Illathid skull. The group takes all the festivities in and absorbs as much of the culture as possible. Galahad is in his element, happy to walk through his ancestral home during this festive time. Arguile, Shanks, and Galahad signed up for some exhibition fights later that evening, but the rogues may have more ulterior motives than our Champion of Bahamut. Arguile and Shanks brie...

Hey everyone, welcome to the thirteenth Divergent Paths cut scene. This scene originally came at the tail end of Episode 154, Feast of the Matrons pt 1. It follows the Gathakinathi spymaster Nimia on a yearly visit to a strange tavern in the home territory of the clan. The party doesn't know this information, but now you do.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

The group reconnects with Xoco, enjoying an evening of camaraderie, during which Salix seeks guidance from the void dragon, Gerviss, to deepen their connection with the Daughter of the Void. Meanwhile, Arguile learns the secrets of the Guardian’s Rapier, discovering its history and connection to Fel Mon'ri, a descendant of the soul within the blade, Ibo. Zechs gifts Hoshino the Quill of Desire, and Glad has a tense exchange with her patron, The Protector, leaving her unsettled. As tensions escalate, the party finds solace and insight in each other, building on their shared experiences and strengthening their bonds. Dr...

Hey everyone, welcome to the twelfth Divergent Paths cut scene. This was originally included at the end of Episode 115 Down the Rabbit Hole. It took place in the same chamber where Collateral Damage found the machine in Granz City. It follows the other party working with the Journeyman, the Circle of Friends. It details the destruction of part of the machines pulling the planes together. The party doesn't know this information, but now you do.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade...

The Scorching Sun Ch. 3

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

Ancient History Ch. 3

The party makes last-minute preparations for their travel, ensuring they don’t forget anything, as they don’t know if and when they’ll be back in Drose. Zechs gives Hoshino a 2nd level Moonbeam scroll that he’s been holding onto for quite some time. Before long, the group is back on the Swift Hummingbird, and we find Hoshino and Arguile creating scrolls out of the spell book the party found ages ago that belonged to the Arcanoloth. The two make a great pair and manage to successfully pull quite a few sc...

Ancient History Ch. 2

We pick back up with the party as they begin planning for the day. Zechs and Galahad go shopping, and Zechs gets the party an item for communication called “The Spies Murmur.” After returning and giving the items to the group, he informs Galahad and Shanks about his current condition in fighting Malar. He asks for their help in training him to be more efficient in what he excels at and not trying to fit the parts of the group where he feels need to be covered. Afterward, Shanks informs Arguile that...

Ancient History Ch. 1

Shanks returns triumphant and looks like hell from his battle with the giant purple worm. He and Jrehg share that the tunnels left behind were used in the attempted siege of Drose. After that, they reveal the poison, which they confirm is just as valuable as deadly. After the group begins to disperse, Greyleaf is approached by Arguile regarding helping him with a huge favor. Through a sending stone, Greyleaf sets up a meeting with Arguile and his contact, who is revealed to be Rig. Before they get down to business...

Hey everyone, welcome to the eleventh Divergent Paths cut scene. This month we've gone to the coastal city of Nereas in Granzia. This is a deep cut coming from the backstory of former party member Attros. While his story isn't visible, things are still in play. The party doesn't know this information, but now you do.

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

The Scorching Sun Ch. 2

Our scattered heroes met back up in Tradeshore at a tavern called “The Witty Glaive.” Bob and Dona are the first to arrive, with Ursus and Thorak behind them, and Valen, who finally arrives. The group decides to indulge in food, drink, and revelry as they all want to catch each other up on what has been happening to them. They have orders placed with Hebrin Steelebelly, a dwarf who helps run the establishment that Ursus and Thorak now own. We start with Thorak and Ursus in the desert. Having rece...

The Lost City Ch. 24

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

The Lost City Ch. 23

We return to Shanks’ training with Jrehg in the Forgotten Quarter. They start by traversing down the tunnels left by the Draegoloths that wreaked havoc in the city. The further they explore, the more they begin to see that those same creatures could not have created these tunnels. Instead, they must have been made by something even larger than them… much larger! Jrehg informs Shanks that this is the work of Purple Worms, fortunately, an adolescent, but that is not to say it worked alone. The pair continues, and Jrehg asks...

With the help of Galahad, Hoshino, and Arguile, Shanks realizes that connecting with Zechs requires speaking to him rather than at him. They have a heartfelt conversation that brings them closer than ever. Arguile dreams from the perspective of a man named Urich, interacting with his mother, Dorna, in the strange land of Narkorua. Galahad receives a vision guiding him to an Unillum warrior in Drose. The group then encounters a floating stone face, offering three questions. Through these, they gain prophecies about the future, including insights into Zechs's situation with Malar.

As the group navigates these...

The Scorching Sun Ch. 1

It’s been three weeks since the last time we heard from our party. Things went off the rails when some dragons showed up at the Monastery of Perpetuity. Valen dipped out with the Unillum child Soris, Thorak & Ursus went after them, and Dona & Bob jumped the following night. They ended up in vastly different parts of the plane. Luckily, Dona and Bob found themselves a tavern (The Second Turtle Inn) and a Bard in Tradeshore, named Roscoe, who could send out a message to their friends. The message boiled do...

The Lost City Ch. 22

We return to the group as Hoshino begins a Spirit Session. A spattering of different spirits arrives and helps guide him to the knowledge he seeks. With the acquired Legend Lore spell, he begins to gather the group again to perform the ritual. He seeks information on Iolan and gains somewhat cryptic information regarding her after the spell. The group gathers that there is a throughline of connection to Antithesis, Iolan, and Hoshino. After more thought and talk surrounding the Legend Lore, the group hears a voice saying, “That was im...

The Lost City Ch. 21

Finding and investigating the former quarters of Iolan, the party comes across a library with many books that, while not magical, are rich with information on all the various schools of magic. Also, in this library, they come across a map of Sloane that is not the Sloane that they now know, but one that is likely from ages gone by. After, with Jrehg's guidance, they wander around the burial site of a large-scale battle. They don’t find much of note other than the appearance of a grave where so...

In the northern reaches of Granzia sits a region that is often left to its own devices. Rugged mountains, tundra, and a slumbering ancient white dragon are all features of the Coldbring region.

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

VO: Antonio Perez, Floki the DM

Edited and Mixed by Thomas Lapierre III <...

Welcome to Part 3 of the Prologue of our new monthly campaign: Blood & Booze! Over the summer, we will set up the events leading into the first adventure: The Scorching Sun. Each prologue will provide context to the adventure as well as 2 character profiles and player profiles from the party. This episode features the profiles of Ursus and Dona, and their players, Tone and Cheyenne. Thanks for joining us, and we hope to see you next month!

Narration written & recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Ursus by Antonio Perez

Dona by Cheyenne Clardy

...

The Lost City Ch. 20

With the siege of Drose reaching its conclusion. Most of the party helps the citizens as best as possible and regroups outside the temple. As the adrenaline leaves Hoshino, he’s shocked and heads to the Inn with Glad. The party, minus Zechs, catches each other up on what they’ve experienced and uses their shared knowledge to inform their next steps. Together, they recount the story Bound to the Void, the conversation that Gerviss had with Salix, Arguile had with Ÿbo, and any other information they’ve gathered so far. It...

The Lost City Ch. 19

The siege of Drose is fully underway, and the party is scattered across the city. The Draegloth are sources of fear and shock as they pass through Drose and its citizens. Glad heads back to the inn and lets Arguile and Salix know to send people her way for safety, rest, and healing. Arguile and Salix agree and make their way through the city, taking out many of these creatures along the way. Arguile uses his Guardian’s Rapier, and Salix uses their Druidic wild shape ability to get the job...

The Lost City Ch. 18

We return to the battle with Xoco, Galahad, and the intruders of Drose. Upon the enemy’s defeat, Xoco makes the call to abandon her trial and realizes that Drose is under siege and needs the champion’s protection. We then pan over to Hoshino and Zechs, I'm the Scholar’s Ward, and enjoy themselves until a mysterious figure disrupts the history lesson, leaving Hoshino in a state of shock and Zechs uncertain of what to do. We finish with Salix and Gerviss discussing Salix’s disdain and history with Dragonki...

In the northwest corner of The Heartwood, nestled between the Shattered Range and the Tempest’s Gauntlet, sits the segmented Elven city of Invenas. Settled in the early days of recorded history, this city started as a religious site settled by six clans of Elves. In the eighth episode of Across the Planes, Tom embarks on a solo mission to finish fleshing out the infamous city of Invenas. Over the course of the episode, he discusses the culture, religion, industry, and overall vibe of the Elven city before and after the Web of Fate.

Written, Edited, and Mi...

Welcome to Part 2 of the Prologue of our new monthly campaign: Blood & Booze! Over the summer, we will set up the events leading into the first adventure: The Scorching Sun. Each prologue will provide context to the adventure as well as 2 character profiles and player profiles from the party. This episode features the profiles of Chantico and Bob, and their players, Liza and Sebastian. Thanks for joining us, and we hope to see you next month!

Narration written & recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Chantico by Liza

Bob by Sebastian Bonet

Mixed...

The Lost City Ch. 17

We pick back up for the conclusion of the heated argument between Glad and The Protector. Afterward, Shanks, with the aid of Hoshino and Galahad, offers her empathy and understanding. She is comforted by this, and Shanks breathes a sigh of relief, seeing as this did not go so well in his similar attempt with Zechs. Arguile breaks off from the group and connects with the Guardian’s Rapier. He is asked to introduce himself and asks what he wishes to know. He gets a history lesson on the origins of...

The Lost City Ch. 16

Last we left off, the group and Xoco were catching up as they had with many new allies. There are jokes made at Galahad’s expense, and they eventually go out for the evening for food, drink, and more revelry. Salix makes their way to a temple to speak with Gervis, the void dragon, and connect more with the Daughter of the Void. They ask for guidance and a bit of clarity in the understanding of their powers and their role. Later that evening, we get Arguile’s education on the...

The group returns to Salix’s hermitage, where Aeron assesses the damage to the Swift Hummingbird, and they decide to rest for the evening. The next day, Hoshino, Zechs, and Shanks set out to retrieve a replacement crystal, meeting a manifestation of Sloane, who questions their intentions but ultimately grants them the crystal. Shanks, feeling like a liability due to his patron Arioch, is reassured by the group that they will face this challenge together. Arguile suggests speaking directly with Arioch, who offers to relinquish Shanks from his contract if the group can defeat him under specific conditions. The gr...

Welcome to Part 1 of the Prologue of our new monthly campaign: Blood & Booze! Over the summer, we will set up the events leading into the first adventure: The Scorching Sun. Each prologue will provide context to the adventure as well as 2 character profiles and player profiles from the party. This episode features the profiles of Thorak and Valen, and their players, Nhan and Law. Thanks for joining us, and we hope to see you next month!

Narration written & recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Thorak by Nhan Nguyen

Valen by Lawrence Bentiné Jr.

The Lost City Ch. 15

We return to Arguile and Shank's pursuit of their elusive thieves. There is a pincer move into the abode, and they are left with a ring and no man. Upon examining the item and its surroundings, they take the ring to a magic shop to confirm Shanks’ suspicion that it is a ring of storage, a sort of extraplanar space that allows someone to go within and be hidden from the world temporarily. Meanwhile, Glad and Salix are catching up and are uncharacteristically enjoying a stiff drink versus tea. Salix as...

The Lost City Ch. 14

We cut to Arguile and Shanks gathering materials for alchemy when they stumble upon a blue cat. As they continue to walk, they find a concerned-looking gentleman searching for the cat, and the two help the older gentleman reunite with his companion. Only a few moments later, they realize that Shanks’ bag of supplies and Arguile’s haversack are missing. The old man and his cat pickpocketed them. The two split up alongside Scyra, Arguile’s familiar, to track down the man and their stolen goods. Elsewhere, Zechs meets Isolde in the...

The Lost City Ch. 13

We start with introductions being made between Xoco and the party. There is a recognition of Arguile’s Guardian’s Rapier blade, and Xoco expresses that the more she learns of the party, the more odd and incredible they seem. Arguile takes his blade and uses burning hands on it; upon finishing the spell, he feels a resonance with the blade, like a tuning fork. Galahad clarifies his role with Xoco in helping her find her oath. Zechs has another dream with what he now recognizes as the Pantheran pantheon of N...

Many characters appear in this campaign, and quite a few have joined Collateral Damage for varying lengths. Listen to the Journeyman’s audio logs about these characters to better understand their origins. We continue the series with the polarizing Kyver.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

Many characters appear in this campaign, and quite a few have joined Collateral Damage for varying lengths. Listen to the Journeyman’s audio logs about these characters to better understand their origins. We continue the series with the precocious We'ahqa.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

The Lost City Ch. 12

We begin with Salix finally speaking to Gerrvis, the Void Dragon from “Bound to the Void,” in which Gerrvis extends his aid to give them full control over their promised gifts. After which, the party realizes that they are on a descent. The had finally made it to the lost city of Drose, and their arrival was expected by those who received them. A Unillum with a salamander fire spirit tells the ship to begin their descent. Once on the ground, they are met with Chantico, The Sentinel/Protector of the...

The Lost City Ch. 11

We open with several party members asking their three questions to this giant stone face floating in the sky. They are given some prophecies of what will come with the sky giants, insight on how to separate Zechs from Malar, and some other cryptic information that they will take some time to piece together. That night, Shanks receives a vision from Solonor of an orcish figure. The Elven God seems to insist on having Shanks seek him out. Glad, on the other hand, has an encounter with her alternate. A...

Many characters appear in this campaign, and quite a few have joined Collateral Damage for varying lengths. Listen in on the Journeyman’s audio logs about these characters to better understand where they came from. We continue the series with the valiant Cereius.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

Shanks and Galahad seek out Fat Arguile to discuss a possible business venture. He gives the two an address and informs them to meet with the “Financier.” The group continues to enjoy the festivities, allowing the heavier news to follow the next day. There is a discussion about morality amongst the party, and that evening, Galahad is met with an alternate version of Thiadikus in a dream. Zechs speaks to the group about what he saw in The Vineyard and gives a report back to Amina. The group sees itself as the majority stakeholder in the Chubby T’s franch...

The Lost City Ch. 10

We pick back up with Shanks trying to figure out how to connect with Zechs and struggling in the process. With the aid of Galahad, Hoshino, and Arguile, they conclude that speaking to him and not at him would be best. Zechs is family, so Shanks should try to empathize with him. Later that evening, Arguile has a strange dream that has him in the point of view of a man named Yurrik, who, at this point, is interacting with Arguile’s mother. Shanks eventually finds himself with Zechs, and th...

The Lost City Ch. 9

The battle intensifies, and the team tries to be free of the influences of Malar. Doing away with the harpoons in the ship, the were-creature attackers, and the taxing amount of willpower it’s taking for Zechs to fend off Malar. In the aftermath of the battle, we get a very distraught Zechs barely hanging on and continuing to fight Malar within him. As the team surrounds him and offers their aid, Malar tries to plant seeds of doubt, while Zechs reminds him that his team gives him strength. There is...

Hey everyone, welcome to the tenth Divergent Paths cut scene. This month, instead of current events, we travel back to the end of the 5th age of Sloane and explore a little bit more of the story surrounding the lost city of Drose. While the party may know the story within the book Galahad purchased early on in the campaign, this is a peek into what actually happened. But not too much, because where is the fun in that?

Written and read by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out...

Many characters appear in this campaign, and quite a few have joined Collateral Damage for varying lengths of time. Listen in on the Journeyman’s audio logs about these characters to gain a better understanding of where they came from. We start the series with the enigmatic Attros.

Written, read, and recorded by Thomas Lapierre III

Title Card by Pierce Graphics

Check out the show at themedusascascade.com

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

The Lost City Ch. 8

The team uses its downtime effectively to train, seek advice, and rest. Shanks tests the limits and advantages that his new scope provides for his bow, Mind’s Eye. All of the rest comes to an abrupt halt with the presence of an airship making a fast approach to theirs. Evasive maneuvers are taken, plans are quickly made, and a massive fight ensues. Galahad is trying with the help of a summoned eagle to remove the spears that are trying to bind the two ships, dismantle the crystal that keeps th...

The Lost City Ch. 7

We pick back up at Salix’s family home, now finding the hidden room of their mother’s and an item that was meant for them, Juniper’s Bloom. It’s during this time that Salix gathers that their mother did not exit this plane at the hands of the cult, but instead on her terms. This broke Salix, and the rest of the group did their best to aid and comfort them in this moment. After returning from Invenas back to Salix’s hermitage, the group now sets off to Balazaa...