fence-macabre

[fence-macabre]

Nightmare Before Winter's Veil returns December 17th 2023!

Doors 11am Pacific / 2pm Eastern.

[fence-macabre]

Haunted Hootenanny - Promo Shots!

After grabbin' a photo at the entry arch, go carve yourself a new punkin' friend! Don't think we've forgotten about the vittles now - our chuckwagon's stocked to keep the party going all night long!

Try yer luck at potion roulette, or shoot your shot wit' bottle blastin'! Lookin' fer friends? You'll be sure to make some at the spooky kindy farm, or at tombstone tales. Or, if you're feeling brave, maybe the fright fly or haunted hedgemaze!

Can you stand the heat of cauldron hot tubbin'? How 'bout a bumpy spooky stagecoach ride? Only the best of Silverpine's hills for our guests - and we promise it's a ride you won't soon forget!

Feel like takin' center stage? They'll be music all night, and we want you up on our stage for our costume contest. Need a snack after all that partyin'? Our cake walk's gotcha covered!

Whatever your flavour of fun, whether your dancin' 'til you drop, or rattlin' them ol' bones, Fence's FIFTH annual Haunted Hootenanny's got somethin' that'll keep ya talkin' 'bout it for weeks t'come!

Get everything you need to keep your night runnin' smoothly at our carrd right [here]. See you in Silverpine Saturday October 7, 2023!

[fence-macabre]

Haunted Hootenanny Art Raffle

We're three weeks out y'all! Time to get those costumes sorted and packed - the Hoot will be here before you know it! We know you're curious, so have a tantalizing peak at this year's raffle artists!

A big ol' Fence thank you to this year's artists: @irishmoo, @itsjustbeek, @soppendeuff and @wooflings!

Find out everything you need to know, including how to get in on the October 7th raffle [here].

[fence-macabre]

Fifth Annual Haunted Hootenanny

Flyers are plastered everywhere with a strange and festive appearance ... It can only mean ... we're a month away! Come on out Oct 7, 2023!

Join the countdown & find about about this year's art raffle: https://thehoot.carrd.co

[fence-macabre]

are you guys recruiting undead rpers currently

Hi HagWife77,

Thanks for reaching out! Fence Macabre does not actively recruit members - we work through a joint referral and "get to know us" system.

How do you get to know us? Glad you asked! Come out to events we're vending at, or ones we're hosting, and interact - we do notice familiar faces (note these are on epsilon)! Can't make events? No problem, we have a community discord with prompts that go up weekly, and movie nights a few times a year! Jump on in and get involved!

Please be aware that joining Fence is a lengthy process: community is at the heart of what we do, and we do not offer membership applications lightly. We hope to see you soon! :)

[fence-macabre]

Fence at the Stranglethorn Bonfire Bash

Fence always has a wonderful time at the Bash! Thank you for another wonderful #STVBB23 and congratulations on over $2300 raised for Campaign for Southern Equality. Until next year!

[fence-macabre]

Scales of Eidolon - Finale

The Lost Glacier faded away like a lost dream, left behind in the frigid and death-filled waters of the North Sea and once again shrouded in a heavy mist of frost. Would anyone truly know of the great deed Fence Macabre had been part of? Would anyone believe them? A blink and everyone was back on the shores of the Burnished Mire.

Stepping back into the Inn, bustling with unusual business, Fence Macabre is met with many familiar faces. Word traveled fast across the small scattering of islands of the resounding success on the Lost Glacier - and of Fence Macabre’s soon departure back to the mainland.

The Scales of Eidolon were all present, as well as Salix. On one side of the inn, Salix and his mother Vivistrasza were conversing with Barclay and Zaïd from the Explorers’ League. The other side of the room were the trio of elderly tarasek - Kisha, Elash, and Tessk - unsure to be around so many of the other dragonflights but happy to see their friends off.

Remington approaches Ilvaia,

“So why’d ya keep bein’ one ‘a the Blacktalons under wraps? Coulda just told us right from the start and would’ve given us more confidence in our deal.”

Ilvaia admits that she assumed that Fence Macabre had already figured her out, but she was mistaken. She explains further that the locals know of her as a Blacktalon deserter.

“I left Wrathion’s service a year ago. I only recently arrived back in the Dragon Isles.

At first I attempted to make the Mire a safe place for Wrathion and Sabellian subordinates to get away from the infighting … Of course, the second I was recognized people from both sides began comin’ at me. The Blacktalons were fearful that I might reveal Wrathion’s secrets, and Sabellian’s people wanted those secrets.

I’m sure you noticed some of my visitors were sometimes … unruly.”

Ilvaia laments on the discovery that her brother Fahrad had been slain by Wrathion many years prior and his genocide against the Obsidian flight - becoming disillusioned by Wrathion and being unfamiliar with Sabellian. She disappeared into Hillsbrad in pursuit to recover her brother’s remains and those of Mostrasz - in turn, gaining the trust of the Gilded Caldera’s Ruby dragons. Ilvaia digresses … She feels comforted in her grief being channeled into something she believes Fahrad would be proud of.

Ilvaia further points out that the parcel Fence Macabre has been carrying the entire time wasn’t even from a Blacktalon agent - the parcel isn’t sealed correctly. She empties the contents of it, revealing sand and worthless shore rocks.

It seems Fence has been misled from the very beginning.

Ilvaia chucks the bag up into the darkness of one of the upper bunks in the inn.

“Is that the best you can do?”

A hand reaches out to snatch the empty bag and a figure jumps down - it’s Balisonria - the young elven woman who stowed away on Fiona’s Pride and gave Fence Macabre the parcel at Sterling Reach!

Balisonria asks how Ilvaia knew she was up there and Ilvaia retorts that Bali is sloppy at sneaking. Balisonria scoffs and then formally introduces herself as a young black drake who was waiting around for a Blacktalon agent to reveal themselves. Ilvaia asks if she still wants to meet with the Blacktalons. Bali shakes her head.

“No. I think I heard enough. Ain’t interested in meetin’ the Black Prince anymore.”

She pays Fence properly with gleaming, illimited diamonds. Each one could easily pay for year’s worth of wages and then some. No more tricks, no more deception.

Ilvaia smirks at the young drake. “So what now, Little Flint?”

Balisonria thinks on this question for a moment.

“I dunnae. I never thought it’d turn out this way. Guess I gotta come up with another plan and figure some o’ me stuff out first.

In the meantime, can I stay with ye?”

“As long as you like.”

The rest of the evening is filled with cheer, good food, cold drinks, and promises of meeting again among new lifelong friends.

For some of the Fence Macabre, the longing for home overwhelms any other feeling. For others, this is only the beginning, the igniting spark of bigger adventures abound of what else awaits on the Dragon Isles.

But, for this chapter, we draw to a close.

Fence Macabre will remember these glorious days fondly. Times of overcoming hardships, stepping up to challenges, forging friendships, mending hearts, saving souls… but most importantly - having a hand in the creation of something truly and wonderfully spectacular.

The Scales of Eidolon.

[fence-macabre]

THE HAUNTED HOOTENANNY RETURNS!

Fence Macabre is delighted to announce the fifth annual Haunted Hootenanny!

Join us October 7, 2023 - phase to-be-announced but for now: save the date, mark those calendars, and join the countdown at our new and improved carrd [here]!

Keep an eye on Discord for more details as October approaches, we've got a great year planned for For the Familiars!

While the Hootenanny takes place in Epsilon, fundraising efforts for For the Familiars extend beyond!

[fence-macabre]

Scales of Eidolon - Session Twelve

Vivistrasza guides Fiona’s Pride ever closer to the Lost Glacier. The journey is filled with a lingering anxiety and anticipation. The sealskin coats, gifted by the Qayassiq, keep bodies warm and protected from the frigid, biting air as Fence Macabre and the dragons make landfall, alone, upon the glacier.

The dragons forge ahead, clearing a path through swaths of feral scourge to reach Kyranastrasz’s final resting place as Fence Macabre prepares themselves. They rush through the opening, temporarily rid of undead, and join the others.

The Scales of Eidolon began their work, channeling their magic into a blossom already radiating with energy. A miracle in the snow as the flowers pulse with magical warmth - it is certain a small part of Kyranastrasz’s spirit still remains here in this hellish, frozen landscape.

It wasn’t long before the rest of the scourge abandoned on that lonely glacier took notice, and gradually Fence Macabre noticed them prowling up the edges of the icy cliffs surrounding them.

Salix, Royalle, and Neil are quick to throw up their barriers, the massive burst of energy too tempting for some, and curious scourge inching too close disintegrated in a puff of ash. A damned Scourgelord, accompanied by a horde of undead and its mindless abominations, presses forward to the trio, hungering for their magic.

Outside the shields, thousands of feral undead of every shape, size, and state of decay wait with a ravenous stare, crowding the cliffs in every direction. Among them, a colossal skeletal amalgamation comes over the horizon, wielding a massive ax made of bone. Three gargantuan skulls, six glowing blue eyes, all watch with an eerie silence. And wait.

There was no telling how long the three could hold that barrier against what waited outside of it, and every precious second needed, all the available firepower they could muster to rid themselves of the scourge advancing forward.

It was time. Do, or die.

The feral scourge that made it inside the barrier surged forward at the band of heroes.

The scourgelord commanding them, turns to one of his abominations, channeling dark energy to empower it as it throws its hook at its first victim, yanking them over.

Fence Macabre engages with ferocity, slaying some of the weaker scourge where they stood. The abominations were tanky, dealing harsh blows with their axes and spewing poison haphazardly.

Hours felt like minutes as the bodies of scourge began to pile up, until… The scourgelord raises its arms into the air, necrotic energy swirls around. The defeated undead are given life and rise again! Fence Macabre is flabbergasted. How were they going to get to the scourgelord when its entire battalion just resurrected?! Would they even have the energy and will to do this same exact fight all over again?!

The dragons are notably starting to struggle as they continue to channel all they can into a single blossom.

Salix focuses, taking a deep breath as embers come fluttering down from his shield. As each one lands upon them, Fence Macabre suddenly feels stronger. Much Stronger.

With this renewed vigor, the undead drop again at a much faster rate, the flames of passion literally burning at the bodies. The scourgelord cannot keep up, its desperate efforts to empower its comrades have drained it so much it has left itself vulnerable. Fence Macabre makes quick work in slaying the foul creature.

The scourgelords waiting above lean back, ever so slightly, judging the fall of their fellow with careful observation.

Vivistrasza calls out, straining to keep up her channeling, “I … I do not know how much more I can give!”

Illavia calls beside her, “We are so close! I can feel it!”

The Scourgelords turn back, blue pinpoints set in their skulls glowing brighter with interest as they sense the faltering. A collective howling rises from the feral scourge as they begin throwing themselves at the barrier.

Neil, Roy, and Salix are now under added pressure as they do their best to keep up their concentration of holding the line.

Fence Macabre rushes back to aid however they can. However, one by one, the dragons begin to fall to their knees, trying to hold it just a little longer. A desperate attempt as Vivistrasza channels her very life essence. Just a little more to allow Kyranastrasz to find his way… Vivstrasza’s eyes start to flutter…

But then, Salix inhales harshly through his nose, his breathing increasing as his heart pounds. His chest feels tight, and tears sting the corners of his eyes as he falters.

“VIVISTRASZA!!” Salix breaks his concentration. The great fire barrier reinforcing Royalle and Neil’s barriers disappears instantly. He whirls around, sprinting towards the Blossom. Neil and Roy are now simply repelling the scourge as they are no longer being vaporized, taking the full brunt of the scourge’s increased assault.

It is as though everything slows, as Salix sprints forward. Petals kick up from under his feet, as he clutches his staff in his hand. He throws a hand out, the other slamming the end of his staff into the ground as he pours all of his magic into the Blossom.

His scream echoes across the frigid landscape, as he joins briefly with the raw magics of five powerful dragons. It is too much for his mortal form, as the recoil rockets through him, forced through every vein in his body. His eyes flare with unimaginable power, and then dim as quickly as a snuffed candle. He drops. Gone before his corpse lands amidst the gently swaying flowers.

Vivistrasza’s screams rip through the air, a deafening roar as her magic snaps back into her. She visages once more and rushes to the side of her fallen son. Tears flow down her cheeks, cradling him against her as her life magic fails to return him.

Lucidre, the small green whelp, finally collapses onto the snow. The child is thoroughly exhausted from trying to keep up with the much older dragons.

Illvaia, Glaros, and Saudormu are filled with shock as their channeling too ceases. They visage and join the others. Saudormu gathers up the whelp into his arms, holding them close as they all approach Salix.

It is immediately after that Royalle can no longer sustain the toll being taken on her body and mind as she blacks out and collapses. One barrier falls. Neil calls out to her. With sharp instinct, he catches her just before she hits the ground and he falls to his knees with her. The last barrier falls.

As the final barrier drops, the Scourgelords above brim with accursed magic, and the scourge bristle with anticipation. The colossal three-headed Amalgamation, no longer looming menacingly, begins its slow advance upon the Fence Macabre and the Scales of Eidolon.

They have run out of time.

Remington calls out to Fence Macabre to brace for the worst, should they need to clear a way back to the barge.

Ilvaia begs Vivistrasza that there is still time to escape but she refuses - she wants to stay with her son, so tired after enduring everything. Glaros urges the others that they must leave. Now. Ilvaia reluctantly agrees.

Remington tells Fence that even if they fall today, she is proud to be alongside them. Everyone braces as the scourge starts to close in.

A small gasp comes from Lucidre… Their voice is barely above a whisper, soft and full of awe.

“Ooh…. the flower…”

The single blossom among the warm patch of green, surrounded by cold snow, begins to glow. Brighter and brighter, the green magics of life blossom and dance outwards. A great roar rises, echoing, musical, joyful as massive wings spread and the spirit of a mighty dragon takes flight straight into the air.

Vivistrasza reaches upwards with a trembling hand, smiling through her grief as she sobs. “Brother…”

Fence Macabre and the Scales of Eidolon stand and witness the wonder unfolding in the sky.

As Kyranastrasz’s spirit enters the Emerald Dream, a great pulse of Life magic spills out, spreading above like a sacred arc. His joyful roars are heard, alongside the beating of great wings ascending, accompanied by birdsong and the warmth of hope. The magic crests into the scourge surrounding atop the cliffs, and with a clattering, they are felled.

A second pulse and the advancing Amalgamation collapses, all magic fading from its bones, and everyone feels their injuries and exhaustion fade away to a distant memory. Above, a faint outline of the sunlight is seen, a dappled canopy of G’Hanir as Kyranastrasz soars higher and higher.

A third pulse, and he is gone, rejoined with his brethren on the branches of G’Hanir. The air stills with peace, as flower petals softly rain below.

Salix opens his eyes with a soft groan, “Mother..?”

Vivistrasza is overwhelmed, weeping with joy and embracing her son as she rocks back and forth with him.

Tears, smiles, shouts, and cheers. A miracle has happened on this cold, lonely glacier. Friends and loved ones embrace each other, thankful to have each other and to see another day.

Remington is happy to break the tension with a grin as she turns to Ilvaia.

“Now, I’m all for touchin’ brushes ‘a near annihilation. But, ya know what I’m goin’ ta ask. And after today, I think we sure as hell have earned our part. Ilvaia, where are the Blacktalons?”

Ilvaia can only break out into a full-bellied laughter, erupting with joy and relief.

“A deal is a deal. Let’s talk further..”

The walk back to the barge doesn’t seem so cold anymore.

[fence-macabre]

Scales of Eidolon - Session Eleven

Fence Macabre returns to the Burnished Mire, feeling well rested after departing from the Mirrors of Aich and bidding farewell to its Emerald inhabitants.

Everyone has been gathered above the bog at the Forgotten Rest, accompanied by Glaros, Saudormu, and the ever-curious Lucidre asking about anything and everything.

It wasn’t long before Ilvaia appeared with Salix and a tall, human woman at his side. The woman, identified as Vivistrasza the Red Dragon, gives pause. She senses the magic of undead surrounding the Fence Macabre.

She is immediately upset with Illvaia, however, Salix defends the Fence by stating they were, in fact, the ones that retrieved Fenistrasza’s skull and sent the fake one with the Explorer’s League. Vivistrasza calms for a brief moment.

Remington pipes up, asking about the Blacktalons but Illvaia dismisses them quickly - much to the displeasure of Fence.

Ilvaia addresses the dragons.

“Vivistrasza, Lucidre, Saudormu, Glaros.

Each one of you has a unique connection to death, and it allows you to interact with it in special ways.

I need help. I need you to be my Scales of Eidolon. To guide, and shelter, and mete out the justice we deserve as we leave this plane.”

After some silence, Vivistrasza is concerned if the Fence Macabre will be apart of this. Ilvaia confirms that they may be called upon if outside help is needed. Fence has proven themselves capable and they would need the help on the Lost Glacier.

Immediately, Vivistrasza is outraged at this. The very idea of allowing more mortals, more undead into the already desecrated resting place of Kyranastrasz. She would not have this.

Ilvaia tries to explain that she wants to sever Kyranastrasz’s spirit from the body to allow it to fly free.

But, Vivistrasza would not hear it -- She hurries off as Salix follows after her Fence, understandably irritated at all of this, demands answers from Ilvaia - their patience wearing thin.

Ilvaia answers, “Once this job is done, you’ll have your vital connection - guaranteed. You’re dismissed.”

A disgruntled Fence Macabre makes their way back to the Inn to settle for the evening where Salix rejoins them once more, apologetic. He tries to explain Vivistrasza’s point of view and why she would react in such a way.

Unfortunately, these good intentions don’t last as the Inn erupts into arguments. Some of the Fence feels bitter for their mistreatment, others are quiet to observe, some in the Inn are sympathetic to Vivistrasza and lash out at others for being upset. It’s a mess.

Salix leaves, furious and disappointed with Fence Macabre, choosing to return to Vivistrasza to not worry her with his disappearance.

Remington feels frustrated. The whole conversation went about as badly as it could’ve gone, but at the end of the day, a job is a job and they will get it done.

Will the Fence Macabre prove themselves to the trauma-ridden Red Dragon?

[fence-macabre]

Scales of Eidolon - Session Ten

The morning Fence Macabre left the Coral Sands was quiet. Saudormu had made a decent recovery but kept to himself, a quiet grief still in his eyes. Glaros was most attentive to the old Bronze.

Arriving to the Mirrors of Aich came sooner than expected, greeted by the heavy mists. A day’s wait brought the mists to part safely and everyone made landfall.

The Emeralds were informed by Ilvaia of Fence’s arrival - they were expecting. Wary, but expecting.

Fence is informed that their green contact - a young green whelp named Lucidre - has been asleep since their arrival from the Ohn'ahran Plains.

Fence Macabre tries their best to rouse the dragon child but their efforts are fruitless. The dragonspawn keeper guides them to their lodging with Amimir - an open inn with many soft pillows and warm blankets under a beautiful glass ceiling. Fence Macabre slept soundly under the starlight.

But during the night - their dreams are stirred. Fence Macabre awakens in a world between dreams. Their forms were almost ethereal, able to see their own sleeping bodies and unable to interact with those that were still awake.

Nearby, playful laughter is heard as Fence discovers the source of the disturbance - it’s Lucidre. Fence finds them dancing near their own sleeping form, also inside the strange dream world.

Lucidre, excited to see others joining in the dream-like in-between, asks Fence if they want to play with them. Some offer, others remind Fence is there for a mission. Ultimately, Fence Macabre fails to convince Lucidre to return to their body - causing the whelp to flee in a panic.

A chase ensues as everyone flies after the baby dragon. Surprisingly, Lucidre jumps into one of the nearby mirrored tidepools covering the island.

Glaros and Saudormu are able to tap into the magic, combining it with their own, to be able to communicate with the Fence. They explain the pools are mirrorways - teleports connected to other pools around Azeroth! Fence doesn’t need to be told twice to jump in after the whelp!

Lucidre is shocked to find Fence Macabre able to use the tidepools and continue chasing them throughout different places in Azeroth - The Emerald Dragonshrine in Dragonblight, the Well of Eternity on Mount Hyjal…

The whelp continues to flee, yelling at Fence Macabre to stay away from them.

“The waking world is scary!! I don’t want to go back! You can’t make me! I don’t want to go back!!!”

The chase takes them to Mistvale in Val’sharah. Fence Macabre corners the whelp at the statue of Ashamane. Lucidre’s eyes well up with large tears at the sight of the statue. Fence Macabre can sense the shared grief of the Emerald Flight.

Lucidre makes one last chance to escape into the nearby water, only to find themselves back on the Mirrors of Aich, right in front of Glaros and Saudormu. The dragons managed to combine their magics to temporarily interfere.

Lucidre, exhausted and sorrowful, weeps and wails onto the sand, terrified that they cannot hide from Death, wanting their parents, wanting to go back to a home that no longer exists. They want to hide in the Dream where nothing can hurt them, where they can be safe from the terrifying things outside.

Fence Macabre gather the whelp right into the center of a warm, comforting hug. The tiny green whelp is soothed until their tears dry from Fence’s gentle words of encouragement and soft, kind gestures. Slowly, Lucidre is beckoned and convinced to leave the Dream to return to the waking world…

With the promise of safety, family, and new friends.

[fence-macabre]

Scales of Eidolon - Session Nine

After departing from the Sterling Reach, Fence Macabre was once again on the grand ship, Fiona’s Pride. The ship went against sweltering heat and insistent winds, making headway a struggle. Eventually, Fence was lowered to a barge and pressed forward to the spits of land and sand in the middle of the ocean.

The sky was filled with oranges, pinks and purples and eerily still, like an eternal dawn or dusk. The atmosphere felt… off.

Making landfall was another story - some were hit with instant headaches. Some experienced images dancing in the corners of their vision. Some needed help entirely to be dragged ashore as their bodies went limp from the vertigo of whatever they were experiencing.

As soon as Fence Macabre stepped inside the protective bubble of time magic, suddenly all the ailments of fatigue and pain alleviated instantly! There, they discovered the exhausted Citrine Warders and Guardians and the stranded Reliquary members.

Glaros, the Blue Dragon from the Sterling Reach, explains that the remaining Citrine dragonkin are trying to salvage what of their history that they can from the slowly sinking island. He explains that their Bronze contact, Saudormu, arrived around the same time that the island was experiencing the strange curse.

Neil relays to the Fence Macabre that he would stay behind in the bubble to assist what he can of the fellow Reliquary. Royalle would be joining Fence Macabre on the expedition to seek out Saudormu outside the bubble.

But just as luck would have it, Saudormu is spotted not too far off from the camp. Fence quickly goes to confront the dragon, but they flee, escaping Fence's pursuit.

In the Bronze’s wake, time magic shifts and Fence Macabre start to experience hallucinations. Fleeting glimpses of their pasts before the magic shifts back to the present. The magic manifests as a time portal rips open and out of it pops out a blast from the past - the Malfunctioning Titan Construct from the early days of Fence Macabre’s forming.

It’s quickly defeated and Fence presses on, finding the haggard Bronze dragon nearby. Another confrontation, another clumsy escape. 

Fence Macabre pressed forward, further into the sinking island, only to be met with more staggering time magic. The memories of their pasts come to life once again in front of their very eyes. It’s almost.. Real… like one could reach out and hug a cherished loved one.

But once again, the memories fade as quickly as they appear.

Fence runs into yet another projected image of the Malfunctioning Titan Construct, again and again, and each time they are successful at beating it away. Again and again, they chase Saudormu throughout the island. It becomes evident that the Bronze dragon is showing clear signs of experiencing similar hallucinations, trying to scare away the Fence Macabre to leave them be.

Fence’s own memories are at their strongest now. Memories come to life in front of them, bringing some to tears as they reach out for the dearly departed - just five more minutes, just one more hug, just one more ‘I love you”, please…

Tears of sorrow turn into tears of frustration as they finally corner Saudormu.

The dragon is too exhausted to keep fleeing, collapsing onto a sand bar. They weakly stand to their feet, teeth bared and defensive at Fence’s approach.

Saudormu lashes out bitterly, saying aloud what good it is to have power over time, if they cannot save the ones they love most. Unable to meet the children that were never born thanks to the Aspects giving up their magic who now get to enjoy having children again. Unable to bring back their partner, Endormu.

They call out for their love, becoming increasingly agitated as tears stream down the dragon’s scaled face.

Glaros realizes what is happening, the dragon is pulling all the time magic that’s ever been casted on the island to try to cling to the past of their beloved Endormu.

The Fence Macabre manage to calm down the old Bronze dragon, convincing them that they must stop destroying the island and let go of the past to move forward to a hopeful future.

Saudormu, in complete exhaustion, passes out and finally collapses onto the sand - taking the visage of an old Troll.

Glaros rushes to Saudormu’s aid.

The time magic slowly starts to lift from the Coral Sands…

[fence-macabre]

Scales of Eidolon - Session Eight

Fence briefly revisits with Ilvaia on the Burnished Mire, only to be met with arguments breaking out in the Inn. Ilvaia is able to quickly relay what she needs from you: Seek out her contact - a blue dragon - on the Sterling Reach and hand them a dossier she provides. She explains his name is Glaros and he would be studying Tuskarr customs to record for the Azure Archives.

Fence is rushed out the door as a cloaked figure descends the stairs into the Inn and the arguments start up again on departure.

Sterling Reach seemed to be bustling with unusual activity as Fence arrived, warmly welcomed by the Qayassiq Nation Leader, Elder Piheq.

She informed the Fence Macabre that they’ve arrived just in time for a special celebration to Karkut, a deity of Death they honor and respect. They learn the Kalu’ak also share in the same traditions!

Elder Piheq touched on the history of some of their traditions and beliefs - Karkut’s importance to the Tuskarr of guiding souls so they may not be lost, the crowded shrines of villagers and visitors paying respects, the excitement of young ones on the cusp of adulthood that get to choose their lifelong ice bear companion, the history of their culture adapting to the preservation and companionship of the island’s ice bears, and the ceremony of sparring to honor Karkut.

Fence is honored and pleased to join in the festivities as they are led to the top of the island to a ring set in front of a large monument to Karkut.

It is here that Fence gets fully into the ceremony - participating in sparring matches in the ring till first blood. The results end with Sylendrea winning against Royalle, Neil winning against Kavard, and Charlotte winning against Ilyssae.

It is shortly after the final match that Fence notices a tall Taunka in blue garb is standing in the back of the crowd, taking notes. It’s Glaros - the contact! Upon approach and some chatter, the Taunka gets skittish and flighty as he flees down the hill toward the Gleamcove.

Fence Macabre is quick to pursue where they find the Gleamcove filled with glistening gems that have even changed the very makeup of the wildlife living inside - in this case, being a few porcupines.

Eventually, Glaros is calmed and the dossier is handed over. The taunka apologizes and asks the Fence to join him for the final ceremony at the top of the island.

Approaching, everyone can hear all around the island as Fence witnesses the Qayassiq and their reunited Kalu’ak cousins joining together in song, lifting their voices to the aurora, the sky, and the ocean. The voices harmonize, singing together in their language as the beautiful melody makes hearts swell and eyes well. The joy, the sorrow, the hope in Tuskarr’s hearts are carried out into the night, to the ocean.

May peace be widespread, May the sea glisten Like greenstone And may the shimmer of light guide you. May peace be widespread Be widespread Now and forever more

[fence-macabre]

Scales of Eidolon - Session Seven

Fence Macabre slept well after the successful - albeit, chaotic - heist. Some found the peacefulness of the Gilded Caldera warmly welcome. Others found it unnerving, all too used to the uncertainty of being on the battlefield and constantly being on guard. A night that was meant to bring soothing rest only brought restless sleep and anxieties in some. But, the morning came and a hot breakfast was served. Fence was feeling confident and content.

Barclay and Zaïd from the Explorers’ League came to congratulate Fence Macabre on a job well done. Barclay gave Fenistrasza’s skull a good look over and everything was in the clear! Soon, Salix, the young Kaldorei representing the Red Dragonflight, joined the gathering - ready to accept the skull to bring home. Barclay and Remington would assist with securing the cargo as Salix offered the rest of the Fence Macabre to come visit the three elderly Tarasek they had rescued from the Burnished Mire. Fence happily obliged!

The three elderly Tarasek - Kisha, Elash, and Tessk - welcomed their friends into the warm cave. It was tidy, even cozy! The Tarasek were each given their own spacious living quarters with their own cooking pot in the center of the cave.

“I have invited them multiple times to come live within the city, but they have declined - preferring to stay in this cave.” Salix explained.

Kisha gave a simple answer, “It isss not only the Red Dragonflight that live among the Gilded Caldera. We are … hesssitant…”

Despite these worries, the visit is pleasant. Fence learns that Kisha is learning to cook and Elash has taken up painting as a hobby! Tessk, the blind tarasek, seemed quiet and chose to stay out of most of the conversation. Some of the Fence managed to have a soft heart-to-heart with Salix as he opened up about his troubled past and being taken in by the Red Dragonflight, specifically by the red dragon Vivistrasza. The night ends with hearts feeling warm and light as friends bid each other good night and leave with promises of returning visits.

Fence Macabre tuck themselves in - dawn will come quickly.

Ilvaia and the Burnished Mire await!

[fence-macabre]

Scales of Eidolon - Session Six

The night before was laced with anticipation and adrenaline. Some of the Fence Macabre barely got a wink of sleep as they prepared for the upcoming job. The semi-precious replica of Fenistrasza’s skull was safely guarded in the night, ready for its big day.

Fence Macabre was nothing if not a team of consummate professionals.

The evening of the big swap was here as Royalle and Neil, the Reliquary Envoys, stepped into the Happy Hornswog Inn. They were to keep the Explorers’ League transporters distracted while the Fence quickly and quietly made the exchange from the identical wagons.

Unfortunately, Fence Macabre realized there was one lone guard keeping an eye on the precious cargo. Now, it was time to think smart.

Remington whispered among the others as they were hidden among the foliage in the moonlight: Try to distract the dwarf away from the wagon.

Some, such as Tansie, tried to approach the dwarf, starting up casual conversation. This seemed to be working - unfortunately, the conversation was taking too long, as another dwarf came to check on the other lagging behind. There was a quiet panic starting to rise, Lancel and Sylendrea were stuck between the wagons and unable to make a move for the skulls. Thankfully, Charlotte and Kavard had a quick idea: scare the nearby armordons and create a distraction!

Complete. Chaos.

Outside the Happy Hornswog, everything erupted and very quickly started to devolve.

All the dwarves were now with each other, swarming over their wagon to protect from the rampaging armordon from trampling their cargo and harming the rams.

Then suddenly, a wild stray bird came screeching in and attached itself to a dwarf’s face - it’s Cyri! Cyri wiggled and made all sorts of strange, disorienting sounds as she jumped and wiggled from one dwarven face to another.

Belligerent shouts and yells were all that were heard as the dwarves tried to help each other to catch the bird.

It was now or never! Fence Macabre quickly made the swap of the skulls in the midst of the commotion.

As soon as Cyri managed to escape in an explosion of feathers, the Fence vacated to the safety of their camp near the caldera above. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief knowing they were going to sleep well that night.

Fence Macabre was nothing if not a team of consummate professionals.

[fence-macabre]

Scales of Eidolon - Session Five

The time on the Burnished Mire is somber, punctuated by a deep sensation of loss and grief. Fence spends time talking with the locals, listening to their stories on how guarding the deep places means so much more than rock and soil. The importance of returning to the earth.

After some quiet days, Ilvaia comes back to the Fence with a new task. They would be utilizing Royalle, the Reliquary envoy, to link up with a member of the Explorer’s League on Gilded Caldera. Supposedly, they have a valuable artifact they wish to hand over. A discreet hand-off.

“This job is very important, we understand each other on that?” Ilvaia emphasized. “Do this, and I guarantee it’ll put ye one step closer to those Blacktalons.”

A short boatride over and the Fence arrives at the Gilded Caldera. They’re met with tall, pristine buildings, a warm, tropical atmosphere, and a lively, bustling market filled with every color of dragonkin. Fence Macabre was feeling itchy to do some shopping!

After some haggling and purchases, Remington rounds up the Fence to head out – but instead, they run into a friendly face outside the market. It’s Salix!

Salix is grateful to Fence for leading the Tarasek to him and mourns the ones that were lost. However, he informs he must attend a Council meeting and would meet up with them the next day at the island’s inn, the Happy Hornswog.

Fence Macabre follows the path through the tropical jungle as they take in the sights of lush foliage and wildlife. They make it to the site near the island’s caldera and set up camp. After settling in, they are met with their Explorer’s League contacts: a stout dwarf named Barclay Marblearm and his tall draenei partner, Zaïd. Royalle and Barclay are excited to see each other!

Barclay and Zaïd relay the plan to Fence Macabre. There is an Explorer’s League transport down at the market they were just at. The League is transporting the cataloged dragon skull of Fenistrasza back to Ironforge.

“We’ve managed to create an exact replica of the skull. Complete with fancy Djaradin-enchanted magma flowing from the eye sockets,” Barclay explains.

Zaïd follows up, “It’s a very convincing replica. We just need you guys to … subtly swap it out so we can return the real skull to the Red Dragonflight where it belongs.”

The transport would be at the Happy Hornswog tomorrow evening. It’s up to the Fence to subtly swap out the fake with the real one to return the skull of Alexstrasza’s prime consort back to the rightful claws of the Red Dragonflight.

Will Fence Macabre be able to redeem themselves from their last stealth attempt with the pirates or will they flounder spectacularly once again? We’ll just have to wait and see!

[fence-macabre]

Scales of Eidolon - Session Four

Days went by, slowly, as Fence Macabre did small tasks for Ilvaia as they waited for news. No Blacktalons yet… Days were filled with lazy patrol routes, message delivery, hauling meals to Warden camps. Royalle, the Reliquary envoy, rejoins the Fence today, informing that she had been busy in talks with the Explorer's League for the past few days.

Ilvaia calls over Remington. She has a new task, different from the others.

Fence Macabre is informed that there are Tarasek around the swamp above and they need to be cleared out. With nothing else to do, they agree and set out of the Inn.

Just outside the entrance, Fence is stopped by a young Kaldorei man by the name of Salix Ashborn. He is accompanied by a large armored Ruby Drakonid who seemed to be keeping an eye on him.

Salix makes a plea to the Fence - spare the Tarasek and convince them to seek Salix on the east coast of the island so that he may take them to safety on the Gilded Caldera. Remington notes that they can’t make any promises to Salix but they will try in earnest.

Once Fence gets up to the swamp, it isn’t long until they discover their first Tarasek - azure-scaled and quietly watching the water. Upon approach, they realize the Tarasek is older, fearful, and deaf. Nonverbal communication is established with sign language – “claw talk” as the Tarasek mentions. Fence learns that his name is Elash. He fears he is at the end of his life for he is tired, old, and alone. Elash explains that the bog is something that once belonged to all the dragonkin, long before any of them were born. It is where they have all come to lay themselves to rest for many centuries. He merely wishes to join his ancestors.

Fence Macabre is sympathetic to the old Tarasek and they manage to gently convince him to seek the east coast of the island to find Salix. It does not have to be the end for Elash and he can find safety and friendship on the Gilded Caldera. He complies and heads out on his way.

They venture further into the swamp and discover another Tarasek. An elder obsidian that crawls on all fours using smell, touch, and sound to navigate his world. His old age has taken his sight from him but he is still formidable and doesn’t trust Fence Macabre when they first approach.

Fence learns that his name is Tessk. His plight is similar to Elash - abandoned and left to fend for himself because his ailments made him “a liability and a burden”. Fence Macabre understands his initial distrust, but the more they speak with him, the more trusting he becomes. Tessk is swayed and navigates his way to the east coast where Salix awaits.

The next Tarasek that Fence locates is a softly weeping emerald-scale. They do not react to Fence Macabre’s approach. Upon inspection, it is evident they have not moved in some time, showing clear signs of malnourishment and neglect from their sunken eyes and dirt-caked claws and scales. A soft touch and gentle voice is what finally rouses the teary emerald-scale.

The old Tarasek is confused at Fence Macabre’s kindness. Why would strangers help them? They introduce themselves as Kisha, explaining they have come to the bog to wait for death. Their friends have all passed away and they are tired of fighting, desperately seeking peace. Kisha felt another sob coming on as Fence soothed them and continued to talk with them. Once calm, they are convinced to join the other Tarasek waiting on the east coast with Salix. With a makeshift walking stick, Kisha is slowly on their way.

Fence Macabre take a moment to gather themselves from the heavy topics before moving on to find more Tarasek. Just when they thought they couldn’t find any more, they find one more lone Tarasek by the water, catching bugs and eating them. Something is … off about this Tarasek. When Fence tries to cautiously approach, it lashes out and attacks them. The confrontation ends up with the Tarasek succumbing to their injuries and falling lifelessly on the shoreline. Fence, armed with the new knowledge of the bog, decides to gather the body to let it drift into the water.

It is a quiet, somber moment as Fence Macabre bows their heads. The Tarasek's body, illuminated by moonlight, slowly sinks into the depths to join its ancestors.

Fence Macabre returns to Ilvaia, maybe a little more misty-eyed than when they left earlier. Ilvaia is unimpressed hearing that Fence let the remaining Tarasek go free but Remington snaps back with “If you wanted assassins, you should’ve hired assassins: We did the job and they left.”

Ilvaia lets Therabriss, the assistant innkeeper, handle the payment and departs within the Inn.

Will the Blacktalons ever appear?