The Handler

As the dust of battle settled, we proceeded to loot the fallen bodies, honoring them by burning their remains. Among the spoils, Garreth Crimmor's gleaming full plate and adamantine boots caught our attention, revealing their magical nature. His shield and a sum of 2,000 gold coins added to the hoard. An unexpected discovery came from Ellis, who found a sending stone concealed on Crimmor's person. The halfling carried a collection of daggers, short swords, vials of poison, and a solitary gold coin. The Tiefling's belongings included a curious heart-shaped locket with a hint of illusion magic, along with 160 gold coins and a scarf. Ellis, visibly shaken by the experience, stumbled upon a letter on Casimir's body addressed to Lysandra further deepening his despair.
 
In a somber act, Ellis resolved to carry Casimir's body for a proper burial. After laying him to rest, we revisited the prison to retrieve the sending stone and shield. With the shield discarded into the water and the sending stone claimed by Gideon through an imitation of Garreth's voice, we made our way back into the city.
 
However, our return was not without its challenges, as city guards at the gate sought to perform a magic check. Swift thinking and a well-placed bribe from Gideon ensured our entrance. The suggestion of sticking together for the night was met with resistance from Ellis, who chose to return home, undoubtedly grappling with the weight of his friend's loss.
 
The rest of us sought solace at the Black Frog tavern, only to be met with a surprise in Mezo's room – a figure waiting for us.
 
As the night unfolded, Ellis, back in the comfort of his parents' house, found himself dreaming of Casimir, a poignant reminder of the bonds we forge and the losses we endure.
 
Our meeting with Baram, the half-orc handler representing the Unbound, offered information. Mentions of a connected sending stone and an escapee named Cara highlighted the intricate web of intrigue surrounding us. Our new task: to eradicate the remaining Golden Vows cells. Parchments with instructions for Eshpurta, Esmeltaran, and Citadel Rashturl were handed to us, outlining our upcoming journey and responsibilities. As we discussed our roles and responsibilities, it became clear that our pasts and current positions held significance. Mezo's connection to Thalbin, coupled with Gideon's astute observation, added layers to the unfolding narrative.
 
With unwavering resolve, Baram left us, demonstrating a readiness to navigate the shadows that now encompass us all.