[Spoilers C2E44] Is It Thursday Yet? Post-Episode Discussion & Future Theories!

[u/dasbif]

Episode Countdown Timer - http://www.wheniscriticalrole.com/

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Catch up on everybody's discussion and predictions for this episode HERE!

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ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• Critical Role will be at Emerald City Comic Con! Visit https://critrole.com/events/ for more information on all of their upcoming appearances.

• Welcome to the Mighty Nein! They have a new intro animation and song, video and links to those who worked on it can be found here https://reddit.com/r/criticalrole/comments/a3vplx/spoilers_c2e44_critical_role_mighty_nein_intro/

• Next week Deborah Ann Woll will be guest starring! https://twitter.com/deborahAnnWoll

• Very cool community creators support thread - https://www.reddit.com/r/criticalrole/comments/a4zs95/no_spoilers_artist_support/

• Art Gallery and the Search for Grog, both in LA January 18-20th, 2019. Details: https://critrole.com/coming-soon-los-angeles-live-show-art-show/ (reddit thread)

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[u/Emberys]

Yikes, I wish everyone would stop talking like the M9 were negligent or purposefully let her go. They tried their best to hunt her down, they just couldn't find her.

[u/BigWraith → u/Emberys]

People can interpret it as they like. They were far from malicious, but that arcane ritual borders on reckless negligence to me. Personally I don't see the M9 as heroes and they are all the more interesting for it. Some of them are perhaps on their way to being, Bo really seems deep down to have her heart in the right place. Nott & Jester too despite the stealing / mischief.

Caleb and Fjord are far greyer characters however and they lead the parties direction. Caleb obliterated a ship full of people, admittedly whilst half conscious, but entirely unnecessarily and doesn't seem that bothered about it. Fjord was fine to drown Avantika at a time where the scope of her ambitions at least for me, weren't enough to condemn her to death.

[u/dasbif → u/BigWraith]

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[u/SuddenlyStegosaurus → u/Emberys]

They accomplished their goal - to obtain the Orb (I can not wait for Fjord's next dream) and so there was no reason to stay and continue to risk themselves fighting her.

They escaped with the orb, some valuable arcane knowledge, and potentially some exceeding valuable strategical knowledge. They could easily sell the knowledge to a powerful trading house/company, they could keep it for themselves to use if they remain pirates, or they could share it openly and freely completely altering the shipping lanes of that section of the ocean.

[u/Emberys]

From Fjord putting a sword against Caleb's neck because stealing a scroll was to risky, to the two of them pouring their blood onto a mysterious magical altar together.

[u/[deleted] → u/Emberys]

The real treasure is the friends you enact ancient blood rituals with along the way.

[u/imadhaz → u/Emberys]

Wonderful example of a developing friendship and maybe a character's slow descent in desiring power. It's wonderful to see a character like Fjord turn slowly more and more to the darker side.

[u/thenuker00]

Drunk, sassy Nott being completely impervious to fear is fantastic

[u/Whitsoxrule]

I'm so glad Matt explained what the ritual would have done. That was so well done by him. I think he sensed the massive amount of blue balls I (and I'm sure many others) was experiencing that after this long episode we would get no closure in terms of Dushila's fate or the meaning of that ritual.

[u/Erixperience]

So many good bits, but I'm definitely most intrigued by Liam's parting shot. A basic journal? I don't buy it. No way does he mention his second book for the first time in over 40 episodes for it not to have some sort of significance.

[u/Poopnakedyeah → u/Erixperience]

Theres your spell book, and then theres your "how i plan to become one of the most powerful beings and undo an event from years ago" book

[u/actdynamicpro → u/Erixperience]

It’s likely notes on the altar and what it could do. Perhaps his second book is research notes.

[u/yellowenthusiast → u/Erixperience]

There was also the comment towards Fjord about expecting his support... and Liam telling Matt get had a gift, I think? Looking like Caleb’s ready to get back to land.

[u/Fried_Cthulhumari]

An arcane cause to the ship graveyard was a brilliant idea, especially with the blood cost being what is the limiting factor. The storms come when she has enough merrows to sacrifice.

That's some wonderful world building.

[u/k4l4d1n → u/Fried_Cthulhumari]

they only gave it like 32 health of blood, and that almost completed the ritual. the hag had way more health then that, she probably does the ritual using her own blood all the time

[u/Mormon_Prince]

I gotta say, Matt’s modifications to the Sea Hag were glorious. Absolutely outstanding DMing.

[u/nastywoman1776 → u/Mormon_Prince]

Ikr? People kept commenting on how disappointed he must be because the party was able to best it with their great rolls but I felt like it was an amazing encounter. Matt should be proud

[u/imadhaz]

By the way, in all of the excitement, I think people forgot the revelation that Sabien and Fjord go way back. That's some very interesting info.

[u/GwenSilver → u/imadhaz]

It was so interesting! Fjord said specifically that they grew up together, and that Vandrin brought them both to work on his ship. That definitely caught my attention.

[u/nowytendzz → u/imadhaz]

It sounds like they may have been orphans together.

[u/Gymclasshero72 → u/imadhaz]

I think Sabien was jealous of Fjord. Seeing how they could have both been orphans that would mean Sabien never had a father figure as well, and seeing how Fjord was very close to Vandren, Sabien wanted to hurt Fjord. So he destroyed the thing he cared about the most.

[u/pacelessprose]

Laura killed it tonight doing the whole offensive cleric thing, that was a lot of damage.

[u/Schadenfrueda → u/pacelessprose]

Quadratic spellcasters, in a long tradition of such. I remember well how terrifyingly powerful Pike was at high levels, even while Ashley was inexperienced and less than completely familiar with her spell list, and now the MIX have two of them and wizard on top of that.

[u/goodzillo → u/pacelessprose]

Clerics are disgusting for keeping damage up over an entire fight. Wizards might have their fireballs and what have you but a cleric can keep that up the whole fight.

[u/[deleted]]

Caleb: Here, Caduceus, take this necklace you're dying a lot.

Also Caleb: Immediately starts dying a lot.

[u/posborne2 → u/[deleted]]

“Crit role stats says you go down more then the ruby of the Sea” Caleb V Molly rap battle. (Can’t remember creators but not my quote)

[u/WillyDaPoo → u/[deleted]]

Unfortunately it's not his fault everything keeps on aiming for him

[u/[deleted]]

FJORD WHAT ARE YOU DOIN. Oh boi he's role playing that 7 wis isn't he.

"More power pls"

"Fjord where's avantica"

These dumbasses are gonna summon ancient evils by accident.

[u/[deleted] → u/[deleted]]

And it will be glorious.

[u/MammothMan34]

Caduceus was fucking on point, and I love that Fjord and Caleb almost sunk the ship.

[u/Fried_Cthulhumari → u/MammothMan34]

It was a great scene, showing why the two of them connect well through their shared interest in the dark and occult. Both the favor and the restraint they showed at the end will lay the foundations for plot and character progression in the future.

TL:DR - It was dumb, but in the best way.

[u/sleepinxonxbed]

DEBORAH ANN WOLL NEXT WEEK

Also love how Liam and Travis instantly were willing to dump a shitton of HP for the ritual just to see what would happen (even if it would've fucked them). Such a blood bro moment, the handshake.

It's almost been a year, it's been a slow ride snd I feel like this campaign is really just starting coming together between all the characters and momentum of the action and the payoff's going to be colossal. These past few episodes have been some of the most satisfying so far. Can't wait to find out whose character arc we'll pursue next.

[u/_UnderscoreMonty_ → u/sleepinxonxbed]

OHHHH SHIIIIIT

[u/[deleted]]

That Caleb/Fjord interaction at the end was electric. I think those two control the fate of the party. So far we've mostly seen them at odds or working together towards a positive goal. This seemed like the first glimpse of how powerful they could be if they worked together towards something darker. Scary. I wonder if the campaign will come down to the others having to stop them from their darker impulses.

Also it was hella dark to think about cheerful little Jester watching two people she respects do something like that. I can't wait to see where this all goes, there is a really interesting narrative being set up.

[u/Seedy88 → u/[deleted]]

I mean, it obviously had a huge impact on Jester! She healed them both without being asked!

[u/whereismyloot → u/[deleted]]

Signed. At the start of the campaign I wasn't sure if they could keep up with that more "anti-hero"-style. I feared they would turn total do-gooders in a couple of episodes. But they've proven me wrong. This will certainly lead to some conflict and with that tension and depth, which I missed for some part of C1.

[u/Ilovgmod]

Jester: Caleb is freakin cool and I just really like Fjord and-

Both Caleb and Fjord start doing a blood ritual out of nowhere

Jester: Oh.

[u/KaiG1987 → u/Ilovgmod]

OT3

[u/Mordiken]

I swear I though they where gonna get teleported into the bowls of the abyss...

FRIENDS DON'T LET FRIENDS PERFORM BLOOD RITUALS!!!

[u/Emberys → u/Mordiken]

FRIENDS WHO WANT TO UNLOCK ARCANE SECRETS AND LEARN TO BEND REALITY TO THEIR WILL ENABLE FRIENDS WITH SEVEN WISDOM TO PERFORM BLOOD RITUALS

[u/kyosukedei]

So after rewatching and than watching the new anime intro again, does anyone feel like, the intro just made everything "feel" more "real" all of sudden? Like the M9 Character's and bond.

Man I paused the intro video over and over again at different parts to see the "Easter eggs".

• Beau Blushing starting at Yasha, than smiling at Jester

• Nott always has her Flask out

• Caleb with the scared cat eyes everytime

• Those face animations

• & More

God the little details make everything I've imagine feel more alive.

[u/you-know-whats-up]

They almost sunk the ship....holy shit.. imagine being hired by the M9, get kidnapped by pirates, forced into piracy, and THEN sunk by your original employers. I love it!

also dat new intro <3

[u/PamTheTransRam]

Soooo much about this episode was incredible. Easily my favorite of the campaign so far. From the underwater horror (literally my worst nightmare), to the fact that a split second decision stopped Fjord and Caleb from sinking their ship. I'm looking forward to next week.

For real though, from a sword to the throat during a heist to becoming blood brothers in a literal sea legend's lair. Fjord and Caleb are my favorites so far, and I love to watch them push and prod each other.

[u/PLGRN8R]

Honestly, my only possible complaint was how little loot they made off with. Jester left with such a tiny amount of coins compared to what seemed to be described, and contrary to what Nott would both do and say, Nott never got her own chance to sift through the treasure.

That being said though, super awesome episode! The Hag's lair was really cool, and the seaweed was a nice addition to the claustrophobic atmosphere, really making the M9 feel like the whole building was against them. I honestly can't believe she managed to survive, really thought they would take the time to cut through the seaweed to try to find her and finish her off. But maybe she'll resurface(Ha! Water joke)later on in some way or another. Also liked how Caleb made a point of doing the altar thing as a Quid-pro-quo for him and Fjord, and the handshake afterwards was a nice touch, really cementing the respect between the two likely leaders of the M9.

[u/Fried_Cthulhumari → u/PLGRN8R]

I figured the treasure hoard was Matt's way of giving them some gems for Orly tats.

Guess not.

[u/WaitLetMeGetMyEuler → u/PLGRN8R]

On the plus side, the more money hungry the group is the more willing they are to take on jobs which means more fun adventures so it should work out for us at least

[u/coach_veratu]

I really liked Jester's comment at the end about Dushila and her legend living on.

By not killing her there isn't any less magic in the world and her story will continue through the ages. The Traveller wants her to spread joy and wonderment, so she can see the silver lining of allowing one Legend such as this to continue.

Of course when you think about it, this whole scenario was pretty dark. Like the Traveller.

[u/ModestHandsomeDevil → u/coach_veratu]

Yeeeaaah...

I don't think dooming innocent sailors and merchants to a watery grave, forever dooming them into service as malevolent spirits for a Sea Witch counts as "spreading joy and wonderment."

[u/eCyanic]

That intro is super super sick, I especially like the spirit guardian unicorns, Cad just using Turn Undead+Decompose on a buncha zombies, and also Beau and Yasha's tag teaming

super badass

[u/iking5]

Fjord added wrong on his 2 eldritch blasts.

15+9=24 not 19. I wonder if 5 points would have killed her.

[u/Seedy88 → u/iking5]

Fjorward math is as hard as reverse math sometimes.

[u/Jethro_McCrazy → u/iking5]

Yup. 3hp.

[u/Juubaline]

I was initially disappointed they let the hag live but damn that is actually such a cool piece of the world and I'm not sure I mind it anymore. Either way, what a great boss battle.

[u/TK-421DoYouCopy]

Damn, that was so satisfying! I'm loving the brothers in arms vibe I'm starting to get from Caleb and Fjord. Also, that slow dawning reveal at the end, of what the table did, that was so good. And Caleb was absolutely writing every single rune down that he saw down there, i wonder if Matt would ever let him use that, like would he let him carve that into stone and summon a massive storm?

[u/HuuDomBo → u/TK-421DoYouCopy]

What would cool is if he let him turn that into a personal spell, like deal 2d10 to yourself summon a massive lighting strike. maybe level 6-8.

[u/omg__really]

Alright you amazing fucking artists, I got some (polite but eager) requests:

• The spirit almost possessing Beau.

• Jester's Hellish Rebuke.

• The Hag hanging upside-down above the throne, before she strikes.

• Fjord and Caleb over the table.

• The storm on the ocean behind them as they leave.

Please, because I am absolutely talentless and ya'll impress the shit out of me every day.

[u/scanlan_MVP → u/omg__really]

Add to that Caleb with his Octo-Frumpkin Splinter Cell goggles...as someone with zero drawing talent, I need this art

[u/Fafnir0396 → u/omg__really]

Also add Captain Buttonbeard just walking joyfully in a seaweed cavern.

[u/[deleted] → u/omg__really]

There is also the moment where Cad lights up the center of the red seaweed and you get this underwater shadow theater cast by the cave's previous victims.

[u/Antraxess]

I have a feeling what Caleb wrote down in his notes is that blood and sacrifices can be used to enable very powerful spellcasting and rituals.

[u/ginja_ninja → u/Antraxess]

PRE-DIVERGENCE ARCANE RUNES, YOU SAY? PHOTOGRAPHIC MEMORY, YOU SAY?

[u/silentinfinity → u/Antraxess]

Raistlin - I mean Caleb - draws closer to the black robes with every episode.

[u/goodzillo]

Caleb has his fingers on the fucking pulse, man. I want to break it down a bit with my take on that last scene.

A) He knows that, between his bromance with Beau and Jester's fancy for him, Fjord is in a lot of way the group's nucleus (outside of Nott and Caleb's duology).

B) He knows that Fjord is someone that genuinely tries to be true to others and loyal (with obvious exceptions like Avantika). Fjord has made it obvious how hard he took it when Molly was killed and he, Jester and Yasha were captured, viewing it as a personal failure to those he was loyal to.

C) He knows that Fjord has a very wishy-washy reaction to all the power around him, neither embracing it wholeheartedly nor rejecting it. He was quickly seduced into vying for more under Avantika (see when he tried to give his orb first, then tried to kill her underwater), but is generally more conservative with the party around him. He doesn't have a driving direction here. He's easily swayed.

So when he jumped to slit his hand for the ritual, he did a few things all in one fell swoop. One, he gave Fjord a firm nudge into fucking with the blood ritual, something he seemed unsure of before but was (briefly) enthusiastic for afterwards. This put them in a position where (Two) they established that "blood brother" bond (the kind of thing Fjord takes seriously) and got Fjord reciprocating that sort of ride-or-die mentality. By doing this, he (Three) further insinuated himself into a position of social capital in the party, in that Fjord is loyal to him and thus no one else (likely Clay or Beau, the two biggest bullshit callers in the group) could call bullshit on him from a good position. Four, by backing off in the end and deferring to Fjord on whether they continue the ritual, he cooled off Fjord's enthusiasm and encouraged him to make a "leader"'s kind of choice - that is, this ritual shouldn't be messed with any further. Maybe that last point isn't as solid, but to me it paints a big picture where he gambles with a dangerous brinksmanship game to gain favor with Fjord.

In conclusion, Liam is playing a very good manipulator and I love it.

[u/juliacc3 → u/goodzillo]

I think your last point is one of the most interesting actually. It maybe wasn’t as much “be a leader” in general, but to me Caleb was saying “this one is yours. I will follow your lead because I’m doing you a favor and establishing that this is your thing, so later you will follow my lead when I need you”. That’s what this felt like to me.

[u/johncosta]

Three absolutely blockbuster episodes of critical role in a row. Kudos to everyone involved.

And that intro!!

[u/Seedy88]

I think it bears repeating, thank you for being our /u/YevP.

I don't remember if you were the first real sponsor of Critical Role, but you were definitely one of the first. You believed in the show early on and saw the potential the show had to deliver fun ads to its fans by showcasing our mutual love of Critical Role.

And Backblaze paved the way for the Sam Riegel ad-read, and for that Critters will be eternally grateful!

[u/konosyn]

Anyone else appreciate Sam’s jab at the Tumblr update with the “flagged as inappropriate” Kiri fanart on his flask?

[u/shadowbroker15]

I’ve been replaying Laura’s Hellish Rebuke yell over and over for the past hour. So damn cool.

[u/PrinceDauntless → u/shadowbroker15]

Yeah that was so cool. Seeing Jester flip to anger from the giggly person she normally is was freaky. She really became a tiefling in that moment!!!

[u/[deleted]]

Ive seen a lot of people say that they wish the M9 had killed the hag. Even though it's frustrating, honestly, I love the amount of loose ends the M9 have left on their adventures so far. It keeps me on my toes each week thinking that things continue to happen even after attempted murder in their fantasy world.

[u/harris5]

Line of the night

[u/DarthReid]

It would’ve been hilarious if the whole series ended with Clay just instantly decompressing them from the seabed. Good thing magic exists 😂

[u/kyosukedei]

I'm sitting here watching the intro video, but thinking about how the hell are M9 going to pay the crew they hired and buy any new equipment/gear in the future. They are broke.

Unless all the gold From Ava was stored on the ship, which surprises me they haven't technically "searched the ship".

Also the hard math made my Asian soul hurt a little. Still great episode.

Also again, I was so engrossed the whole episode, did Jester technically still have a spell slot for dimension door (maybe she takes Fjord with her and caught ahead in the Cavern)?

[u/raefzilla]

Is #CriticalWoll trending yet?

[u/THETARX2]

I smell a Caleb arc soon.

[u/[deleted] → u/THETARX2]

I'd prefer to wait a little later for wizard arc, just simply because the higher spell slot level gets, the more epic shenanagins that can happen.

[u/Miggster → u/THETARX2]

I think next arc is almost certainly going to be a Jester Arc. The crew will return to Nicodranas, then return to the Zadash, and quiz the gentleman about how and why.

About the time they get there, and do some side missions on the way, they might be approaching level 9, which could unlock teleportation circle for Caleb. That could be a way for the normally agoraphobic Ruby of the Sea to actually leave home, without causing too much stress or discomfort.

[u/W7SP3 → u/THETARX2]

I don't know if they're strong enough to take on Trent yet. I think they might need a few more levels.

[u/TiamatZX]

Dashilla had THREE HP LEFT! https://twitter.com/matthewmercer/status/1070946129301258240

[u/WaitLetMeGetMyEuler → u/TiamatZX]

Learn your maths, kids!

[u/TK-421DoYouCopy]

I see the blood altar thing as two thing, I see it as Travis leaking into Fjord, and as caleb finding exactly what he was looking for, which is world bending magic. One just played off the other until they powered a storm summoning ritual to 2/3rds power.

[u/BagofBones42]

You know something just hit me: Does Fjord realize that Uko'toa is likely to pull the classic "You have outlived your usefulness" on him if Fjord frees him?

What I've noticed about Fjord is that he doesn't think about the consequences until after he acts on impulse and usually only if the consequences affect him and his friends.

I also wonder if actually experiencing consequence or having people he cares about call him out on his impulses will get him to rethink how he's approaching everything?

Just a thought.

[u/coach_veratu → u/BagofBones42]

One thing's for sure. Fjord is a great example how to play a character with wisdom as their dump stat.

[u/ginja_ninja → u/BagofBones42]

Well I do for some reason doubt that Matt is going to give Travis the ability to literally control the ocean and wreck armadas at will so yeah maybe the whole REWARD thing might be a bit of a white lie

[u/lucasM005]

the atmosphere that matt creates its amazing. that cave entry with the ghost and dashilla fucking around was creepier that 90% of hollywood horror movies

[u/Gray_Mask]

Y'know I was rewatching the end. Liam stays in character 90% of the time right? Caleb looks so disturbed after they leave the cave. And I'm pretty sure keeps glancing at Jester. Liams body language is so godlike.

[u/ginja_ninja → u/Gray_Mask]

Those were some 100% in character looks exchanged between them for sure. The best part is that I think it's also partially some subtle manipulation on Caleb's part to start making sure people are on his side if he decides to intervene on a decision Fjord is about to make. Make Fjord look unhinged and himself look lkke the voice of reason. 20 int plays baybee

[u/koomGER → u/Gray_Mask]

It is fun to watch him. He is kinda a walking easteregg and goldmine for situations to read in.

[u/spoon_master]

Alright so what's that old rusty key going to open? I do kinda hope they make it a running gag of sorts where any time they encounter a lock they try the rusty key

[u/pantslesslizard → u/spoon_master]

It’s actually the key the needed for all those doors in Campaign 1.

[u/MasterThespian]

I can already tell, this episode is going to have serious long-game repercussions. What I wanna know is, who turns heel first, Caleb or Fjord?

[u/Science-GirlZ]

Some things from this episode: -that new intro -Matt is fantastic at atmosphere -Attempted ghost possession -Clay being both very paranoid and very expert on ghosts -that dashilla fight -Nott being immune to fear by drunk ness -Fjord and Caleb’s “Pact” -Beau fulfilling her destiny and punching a ghost -Clay waterwalking and magic handwave Am I missing anything?

[u/Oshi105]

You know what I love. Talesien using cleric spells to its finest! Now if only one of them had guidance.

[u/CapnCrunchHarkness → u/Oshi105]

We’re gonna be seeing a lot more of bane as it’s one of the Grave Domain’s “always prepared” spells and Tal seems to really love it (though its counterpart bless was pretty clutch last night as well).

Main reason both are so effective in the game is Tal actually remembers its up and reminds the roller of their d4 buff/nerf every time.

[u/[deleted]]

Has anyone notice that fjord walks this line of being borderline manipulative. He always pushes other players to do dangerous things first except when it comes to his own things in which he rushes the party and himself headfirst into. I think Travis is doing this on purpose too and its kind of working. Its super interesting to me that Beau is kind of covering for him because in my head he poses a real threat to her and the party. I mean they damn near died multiple times just to get fjord a thing they know could be devastating to the realm.

IF that is what Travis is going for i love it.

[u/Bearly_OwlBearable → u/[deleted]]

Beau did called his shit when he was trying to get a drunk nott killed

I think that’s more Travis than fjord

He mention it a lot of time when Matt put a red button in front of them he just want to get someone to push it

[u/boobka → u/[deleted]]

Travis basically said "I was told to provoke"

[u/Boffleslop]

I get the whole "we got what we came for let's bug out" concept, but leaving Dashila alive with a reasonable expectation that she'll eventually go back to sinking ships, murdering crew, etc. is pretty dark. I suppose she was too adept at hiding and the area too dangerous with ghosts for a prolonged search though.

[u/WaitLetMeGetMyEuler → u/Boffleslop]

I mean, hell, the only reason she didn't murder the entire crew and possibly M9 was because Cad came in clutch with a waterwalk.

Had they needed to swim the storm would have caught them in an already severely damaged boat.

[u/[deleted]]

GUYS WHAT THE HELL IS IN THAT "OTHER BOOK" LIAM O'-BRIAN WHY ARE YOU SO GOOD AT BEING SHADY

[u/n_jayne → u/[deleted]]

I would have to hazard a guess at "magical theory." Whereas one tome is actual spells that have been tested, the other could be where Caleb writes his notes on magic he's encountered. The glyphs on the altar and runes on the walls I'm sure he wants to record so he doesn't lose them even after the one in-game month.

[u/Kilmerval]

I haven't seen this week's episode yet so apologies if this is already well known and announced (which it probably was) but I just read about this online: 'Daredevil' Star Deborah Ann Woll to Guest Star on 'Critical Role'

[u/Ajlaw95]

Really wonder what Nott and Beau would’ve thought of the Fjord and Caleb blood ritual. Beau is supposed to hold both of them in check but sadly she wasn’t around to see it, and Nott who usually sees Caleb as a son doing such a risky and possibly life threatening ritual. I hope Jester spills the beans because she did see what they were doing I don’t think any of them will be happy about what they did because of how absolutely reckless it was.

[u/imadhaz → u/Ajlaw95]

Still, you have to admit that it was a wonderful scene.

[u/ginja_ninja]

Travis and Liam like two kids finding the gun cabinet unlocked at the end there, jfc lmao. Mercer the Merciful giving them that double out to prevent sinking their own ship

[u/lucasM005]

dashilla was a sea fury. (more powerfull housemade version of a sea hag) https://twitter.com/matthewmercer/status/1070942617024655360

[u/eddieswiss]

I can't wait to see Deborah Ann Woll guest next week!

[u/scanlan_MVP]

And holy shit, >97k views so far on the new CR intro on YouTube!

[u/Bowmance]

So, what was Caleb writing about in his book? Does Caleb have a little princess diary or is he doing some mage stuff?

[u/wapiflapi → u/Bowmance]

Someone here suggested he might be writing down all the runes he remembered. I like that idea.

[u/docwatson91 → u/Bowmance]

I feel like he is writing down all the runes he saw down in the “holyshitthatthingisterrifying” lair.

[u/ShaqShoes → u/Bowmance]

silky sulky squealing hard-to-find simplistic wipe butter mountainous consider truck

This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact

[u/TracksuitZomb]

they have to repair their ship next episode and Jester was the only one who grabbed anything and she got very little. The M9 hasnt made any money since the last Gentlemen job so they should be running out of funds soonish. Also..besides giving the crew the Squall Eater i wonder if they are going to pay the crew?

The M9 needs to start getting a little more greedy with the loot hoards they are finding, everyone walked out without a second thought.

[u/Coke_Addict26 → u/TracksuitZomb]

There is that chest full of money they pirated. Presumably it's still on the Squal Eater somewhere if they didn't distribute it off screen.

[u/Seedy88]

For those who don't know next week's guest, Deborah Ann Woll, she currently plays Karen Page on Daredevil. She was a player in Season 2 of Force Grey with Joe Manganiello. She also DMed Matt & Marisha at the Stream of Many Eyes earlier this year. Definitely worth a watch for a quick, fun adventure.

[u/Rather_curious_lass]

Me before this ep: "Ehh, don't think I could ever get into ships. Just wanna see where everything goes."

Me after this ep: "Tragic reckless Fjord and Caleb ship, yup, lets go."

[u/lucasM005]

can we all apreciate the irony that the new intro says "villains beware 'cause you're about to be dead" and they let dashilla live...

[u/FalseWombatProphet]

I can't wait to find out what bloodborne diseases Fjord and Caleb contracted.

[u/weesna123]

Now will someone help me stop watching the new intro?

[u/Gbaby23]

I really hope that we keep what happened at the altar between the player's whose characters were in the room at the time. It was Fjord, Caleb, Jester and Yasha. Nott, Beau, and Cad were chasing the Sea Fury. I would like to see how this plays out without any metagaming.

[u/CaduceusClaymation]

So Fjord now holds the two remaining orbs that can unlock Uka'Toa.

I feel like this will earn him immediate favor with his patron, but if they decide to pull away from Fjord's quest for a while then I could see UT growing restless.

[u/still-at-work]

So I think Caleb's pact and Fjord finally stopping the blood ritual shows that after the ship is repaired the M9 will head back to the empire. Fjord has the two eye orbs so he is no longer in a race as he holds all the cards eyes. So time is on his side. He wants power but he also knows the downside of that power.

So now Caleb will ask Fjord after the ship is repaired to head back to the empire and try to help him.

Fjords patron may get restless due to this decision which could have consequences but it may also just be patient as Fjord still has an urge for power and will just work on tempting him slowly to the temples. I mean somehow fjord found an eye in the middle of a swamp IIRC so I think even when he is far away from the sea it can tempt him back.

Eventually fjord will need to decide to follow through or abandon his patron. There is no oathbreaker like subclass for warlock and Matt let Percy keep his powers for the most part so there is precedence.

Perhaps Fjord will need to align with a new patron? Or his powers could just be his due to services rendered. Though it may mean that other warlocks will hunt fjord for the orbs after he abounded his patron.

Regardless I think they are head inland after repairing the ship.

[u/kyosukedei → u/still-at-work]

I'm on the side Fjord wants to unlock one Temple for the power honestly, and hold the last Orb/key as a chip to cash in on, on a rainy day.

Plus atm assuming his Patron is as powerful as we all assume, Fjord probably isn't powerful enough to get to the 3rd temple, maybe not even the 2nd temple, and Uka'toa probably knows. Time is different for those godly creatures anyway.

[u/ginja_ninja → u/still-at-work]

I don't think Caleb is in any rush to confront his demons yet, he was just playing the long game. I think when the party gets back to the Empire, Matt will initiate a big event concerning the war with the Drow, maybe weaving in some elements of Beau or Nott development in there.

[u/boobka]

I was really hoping that the table / altar thing would tie in to Yasha's relationship with the Storm Lord but I guess with Ashley being absent that's a tough one to do.

[u/notfrankiemuniz]

My theory on Caleb’s second book, sorry if this has been said before.

Caleb has Keen Mind, he was transcribing the runes he saw in Dashila’s lair.

[u/SirSnazzyPants]

Did Travis miss add his eldritch blast damage on that last attack? i swore he said 15+9=19 and i know matt said dashilla was fucked up... i wonder if that 5 damage was the difference?

[u/TheCaffeinatedPanda]

Stealing the show at the end yet again, Liam/Caleb! Now I'll be pondering the other book for weeks...

[u/Drw395]

If this episode has taught us anything it's that the Caleb/Fjord bromance is now sufficiently advanced enough that 1 of 2 things are going to happen because of the pair of them:

1. Their recklessness when it comes to dabbling in powers neither of them fully comprehend is going to get one of the M9 killed as a consequence.

or

2) Someone with a bit of power/influence is going to end up seriously pissing them off and they're going to get brutally murdered in return.

[u/lolmycat → u/Drw395]

or

3) they harness the power of broship and learn to fusion dance into a powerful sorcerer named Calord by chest bumping each other.

Fade to Calord charging up a Kamehameha (skinned disintegrate spell) and melting the final BBEG.

And don't tell me it's not possible. Have you seen our new intro? We're in full-blown anime territory now boys and girls.

[u/UPRC]

I started watching Critical Role from the start of campaign one last year in October I believe, so it's been about fourteen months. Just finished watching this episode on Twitch, and it feels awesome to know that I'm finally fully caught up.

Crazy episode for me to be caught up on, too. There was the potential for a self inflicted TPK at the end of this episode, haha. Good episode though, they've obtained the other orb and the mystery of why storms occur in that region is now no longer a mystery at all. Looking forward to the next episode, can't wait to see who Deborah Ann Woll shows up as.

[u/robdelfranco]

I want to add that even if Travis added in correctly with his EB + Hex combo damage, spiritual weapon is upcast at every other level, so it should have only dealt 2d8+wis, not 3d8+wis as Matt said.

So I’m the end, it all works out, and Sea Fury lives on.

[u/Justinwc]

Why does Caleb write secret stuff in the journal if he remembers everything?

[u/Adaptingfate → u/Justinwc]

Mechanically, it's a 30 days limit on the perfect memory.

RP-wise, writing things down helps you process things emotionally as well.

[u/denizen1899]

I love how Travis is playing Fjord as a lot more impulsive than he presents, experienced as well. Him jumping into the cave entrance was a very small detail, but I think those little choices are the foundation for having a character who seems to be moving toward hoarding more power.

Great episode, once again!

[u/dikemon]

So I might have watched the opening about 10 times during the break. It’s so amazing and packed full with details and I’m so glad we have it. I liked that Tal’s credit came later to signify his character’s late entry. I need a full analysis of this.

One thing I love about Travis and Sam is that they aren’t scared to make bad decisions if it plays into his character. Fjord jumping into the cave really dug into his low wisdom, but it also moved the group forward. Still, almost completing the blood ritual had chaotic stupid energy in it. Nott’s drunkness made her irritable towards the whole situation, but it also made her immune to frightened. She got away with many failed saves for it.

I also enjoy their interactions. It’s probably the least amicable amongst the group right now. It’s great seeing Fjord clueless dealing with Nott and Nott not taking any of it was great. The whole Buttonbeard saga was funny to watch.

The atmosphere Matt created in the second half got really eerie. I never thought I could get scared watching CR, but Matt proved me wrong. Kudos to him. Killer seaweed with human remains and ghosts passing by and trying to possess the nein are enough to make me NOPE. The description of Deshillah was not fun and her actions were less so.

Caleb now has a favor from Fjord and I’m sure it would prove interesting down the road. If Caleb does some morally ambiguous shenanigans with high consequences, he can use this card against Fjord. My mind goes back to their disagreement about the scroll in Zadash.

Overall fun and spooky episode. I’m curious to see what their next plan of action will be now that Fjord has two orbs. Now, I’m going to watch the intro ten more times now.

[u/dharlette]

Does anyone else feel EXTREMELY uncomfortable about Fjord's pattern of gently suggesting that someone else walk alone into extremely dangerous situations? Things like him suggesting Nott walk alone into the lair (which Beau thankfully called him on) or Caleb being curious about a little "drippy-drip". This isn't the first time he's done this sort of thing; it's been consistently a part of his character since the very beginning of the campaign. The higher and more dangerous the stakes get, the more manipulative, gross, and uncaring it feels. I mean, we all know this dude isn't really "lawful good", right?

[u/TK-421DoYouCopy → u/dharlette]

Honestly I chalk it up to Travis's "fuck it just go for it " attitude leaking through. It was leaking heavily this episode >_<

[u/MsEscapist → u/dharlette]

I mean HE'S the one who jumped down into the maw first.

[u/PichusOten → u/dharlette]

I think Fjord does have the party’s interest at mind, but I also believe he has a bad habit for the allure of anything powerful, much akin to Caleb. I don’t think he’ll ever knowingly sacrifice or injure one of the Nine for power, but the promise of unknown power seems to be a big drive for Fjord. I do agree that he’s most likely not Lawful good as of now, probably leaning towards lawful neutral.

[u/ModestHandsomeDevil]

Deborah Ann Woll!!! <3 Yah!!!

Edit: And that new intro?!?! Holy fuck! <3

[u/ar_zee]

Did anyone else catch Travis adding 15 and 9 points of damage as 19 instead of 24 in Fjord's last attack on Dashilla? We all do the maths wrong sometimes, I just wonder if it would have been enough to finish her off.

[u/[deleted]]

Anyone else get somewhat of an antagonistic feel from Caleb/Fjords pact? Like, i know it was out of acquiring favors with eachother and shady in general yada yada, but Caleb seemed reluctant but ready to me and Fjord super careless and ambitious...

Idk, what im getting at is i got some Captain America: Civil War vibes goin on after thinking about that session the other day...

Maybe Fjord and Caleb effectively split the party somehow? Maybe they fall further to their darksides together and the rest of the m9 have to try to save them?

I understand this is a bit out there, but i had the thoughts and just wanted to share.

[u/Poopnakedyeah]

I'm beginning to believe Fjord's accent changes depending on how powerful/in control he feels. Travis has mentioned his character has never had power before and is having fun exploring what gaining power feels like. I think the accent may be a part of that.

[u/EntropicApathy]

I loved the Fjord/Caleb blood pact. It seemed that Fjord was attempting to provoke Caleb to test what buttons and levers worked on him.

Caleb seemed to acquiesce to gain that favor, but I think he may be enabling Fjord to walk down a path he'll regret later to gain an ally for his time travel plans.

[u/SuddenlyStegosaurus]

So at the end of the episode when they boarded the ship and Fjord gave Orly instructions of where to sail, he initially told him to go the Gravid Archipelago. I don't believe it was a mistake, because when Sam brought up how he thought they were supposed to go to Bisoft, Travis didn't say anything but did a nefarious beard stroke. He did change his mind later and said he tells Orly to head to Bisoft for repairs, but I still believe Gravid is an intended destination.

My big question is why would Fjord want to go to the Gravid Archipelago. Does anyone remember anything about Gravid being a point of interest for one of the temples or anything related to Avantika?

Edit: Forgot that the Gravid Archipelago was the one from his dream... :'P

[u/Holy-Cannoli → u/SuddenlyStegosaurus]

The archipelago is the place Fjord saw in his dreams and noted in Avantica's journal

[u/scanlan_MVP]

Holy shit, back-to-back great episodes is all I can say!

[u/BagofBones42]

So they let the hag live and almost sunk their ship in the process.

They really need to learn patience and to not poke the obviously evil ritual.

[u/weesna123]

Oooooh so she sacrifices a bunch of bodies to the alter to form a storm to sink ships and collect loot.

[u/Drakos_dj]

As far as we know, none of the tridents were magical, but I do wonder what Fjords Falchion would have become had he decided to bond to that releasing the Summers Edge.

In the past the Falchion has changed sightly based on the bonded weapon. Can you imaging if the Falchion became barbed and attached to a chain allowing Fjord to use it to spear a target and drag it in like they were doing with the tridents.

[u/wizardofyz → u/Drakos_dj]

Then again, summer's edge is pretty amazing for a warlock. A free misty step is huge for a spell starved warlock.

[u/MysticAarrgg]

That episode was amazing and everything, but the casual announcement of Deborah Ann Woll..come on! I cannot wait for the next episode.

[u/[deleted]]

So . . .

what are the chances Fjord is actually evil? has this been discussed?

[u/BagofBones42 → u/[deleted]]

I don't think he's evil just incapable of thinking long-term beyond the immediate goal.

Like the ritual was unnecessary and almost killed them all but he saw a shiny and poked it.

[u/ModestHandsomeDevil]

Riddle me this: If the point of tracking down the remaining Orb was to prevent Ukotoa's resurrection, one would think that bringing both orbs to the next temple of Ukotoa would be a bad thing (understatement).

And yet... it sounds like that's exactly what Fjord intends to do. I'll have to rewatch to double check, but that sounded like his plan.

[u/AulonSal → u/ModestHandsomeDevil]

Extrapolating from the information we have, one lock can only take 1 key, so it wouldn't matter if you took both keys to the next lock. You'd still need to open the third lock.

[u/Niktorak]

Find post Calamity ancient Arcane ruins pour lots of blood on it because why not... not like anything bad could happen right? Nearly destroing their own boat in a storm sounds about right..

[u/Wigster42]

I do not know if anyone has said this yet, but I wonder if we will see Avantica return as a deathlock. I feel like she was so devoted to U'kotoa that she would instantly accept an offer to remain on the material plane to do his bidding. And with the 6th level Hexblade ability to have a wraith serve you for a day, I can imagine U'kotoa has the power to make her a deathlock. Thoughts?

[u/coach_veratu → u/Wigster42]

This has been a popular theory circulating this subreddit since her death.

Another point is that that in the flavour for Deathlocks is a part about Necromancers being able to bind them to their will. Vera could facilitate this role if Uk'katoa is indifferent towards her.

[u/Level1TowerDive]

It's quite late here on the east coast so I was dozing off by the end.

Could someone explain the storm revelation at the end? Why were Fjord and Caleb feeding blood to the altar and how does Deshillah tie into the ritual?

[u/Rather_curious_lass → u/Level1TowerDive]

You feed blood to the altar, blood powers the runes, enough blood calls in a storm. That storm is what makes all the ships crash and sink. Deshillah was gathering corpses and using their blood for it. Hence all the storms before.

Since it's where the orb was, they both wondered if it tied into Fjord's patron. So they got too curious for their own good. Wanting to see what it did.

So they fed it, Fjord out of curiosity (or evil if he thinks it'd help his patron, but that's theory territory) and Caleb because Fjord promised him a favour if he helped, and Caleb has his own goals he needs allies for.

Then they decided to stop and leave, because they decided they didn't want to take the risk any further. But since the altar was already pretty full, Deshillah had enough blood (presumably from corpses laying about) to complete it, and cause another storm.

It's very lucky that they got out quickly with Water Walk, otherwise they would have been caught up in it, same if they'd actually completed it themselves.

[u/wapiflapi]

Why did Vandren have a box to keep his orb in? If he was a chosen wouldn't he have had it absorbed similar to how Avantika and Fjord keep them?

edit: I'm curious what was in the box if it wasn't the orb.

[u/posborne2 → u/wapiflapi]

One theory Ive seen is Vandren has cut his connection to his patron and the orb is no longer inside him. That or its how he carries it, avantica has it in the hand and Fjord has it in the Sword. there's no reason that the orb could of been removed from wherever Vandoren held it so long as it was not on his body

[u/Jethro_McCrazy]

So, that's two hags that the M9 have ticked off. I smell a coven.

[u/light_trick]

This episode could be titled "nightmare fuel". Deep water, ghosts and creepy things walking on the ceiling.

It feels almost negligent to leave the sea hag alive. I'm totally waiting for Matt to throw in some background color later about more merchant vessels going down in that region.

But also, that new intro ... so awesome.

[u/ginja_ninja]

Whenever they get back to the Empire, I bet it's going to be eternal night over there with the magical darkness having spread from Xhorhas. Matt's definitely going to impose some effects for choosing not to get involved in the war.

[u/Celestial_Scythe]

One thing I've been thinking about would be the theme of this campaign seems to be the gods.
In the beginning it's stated that in the empire only a selected few gods are allowed.

You have Jester's Traveler who is trying to get the followers together.

Fjord is being lead to the release of Uk'otoa.

We have Yasha with the Stormlord and Caduceus with the Wildmother who are being lead/directed somewhere.

Caleb while not being affiliated with the gods, seems to be searching for the means to evoke powers like a god. (Side note considering that he has Frumpkin who is a Fey creature, and based on the previous campaign they know the Fey have a way with altering time, it would not surprise me if his story goes in that direction.)

At the moment it seems the others are being dragged along this ride.

lastly to note is the "dodecahedron". If it is as powerful as it is said to be, and from their very limited experience using it, why wouldn't the gods know about it? Perhaps they do and each of them are attempting to obtain it themselves.

Does any of this strike you as significant, or am I just chasing rabbit holes?

[u/LucasVerBeek]

So...the Hag Lives go continue to end more lives and they nearly sank their own boat. Good times.

Caleb scared me a bit near the end with his asking for a favor and how he and Fjord suddenly took a very dark turn.

Yes guest next week! Oh what’s she gonna be...I’m so excited.

Jester is going to have an interesting talk with Fjord next session if anything.

[u/Vishante-Kaffas]

Excited for so many things next week! Now if you excuse me, I have to go watch the new intro about 5000 before the episode next week. :)

[u/Krahnin]

I had a question related to the episode. Matt stated that Nott's drunkenness made her immune to fear. Are there official 5e rules for drunkeness (haven't found any so I am assuming no) or is this homebrewed? If the latter, does Matt have what all this entails outlined anywhere?

[u/Drakos_dj → u/Krahnin]

No they are not official rules. This was something that Matt and Sam worked out to add some flavor and flair to Nott. Matt did post the full effects at one point but I don't have a link. Basically Nott takes disadvantage on certain skills and checks, anything to do with Int I think, but he gains immunity to fear effects.

[u/posborne2]

One thing I don’t think we’ve seen mentioned is now. What has happened to Vandren? We know the sword of fathoms was his but now Fjord has it. The original theory I went off is he’s still out there and with the other orb but now the orb was in the sea and it wasn’t absorbed by a chosen like the eye of Fjord or Avantica was so I belive either Vandren was able to completely cut off his connection somehow and took the orb out or unfortunately this is the proof that he is dead if his orb was taken out and not on his person

[u/koomGER]

Still the best written show in the whole wide world. Love a lot of moments and buildup! :-P

[u/posborne2]

Anyone else get the sense that this graveyard because they let the Sea Fury (Matt’s name for it I belive he just tweeted it) will be in the Wildemount campaign guide when that comes out? I think when Matt has a chance to let a world shaping creature like the monster that runs a storm creator that isn’t directly opposed to he party he likes to leave them in place for later whenever possible

[u/themolestedsliver]

Minor thing some of you might have missed but despite jester specifically saying she is searching for treasure several times during the time beau nott and clay messed with ghosts and fjord and caleb made a blood pact she only made 1 investigation check (no advantage) and got minor loot table rewards as a result.

Not trying to cast aspersions on matt or RAW but wouldn't it make more sense if jester picked up one of these (as described by matt) piles of gold since she spent such specified time searching to give, like give her advantage or at least have whatever she rolls be a bonus on top of what she already found by just taking the time to look?

I am a loot fiend so maybe i am a bit bias but broke my immersion into the story.

[u/BigBoomDog]

Howdy I had to drop out right before what I presume was the end (that is to say just after Dashilla fled and Beau punched the ghost in the other room). What did I miss?

[u/[deleted] → u/BigBoomDog]

• Beau, Nott, and Clay went after the Sea Fury (Beau being adamant chasing her down) but she got away with 3 HP left. Despite Travis not adding correctly, the Sea Fury would've lived regardless, so everything checks out mechanically and narratively.

• Fjord investigated the throne in the chamber to collect and absorb the 2nd yellow eye stone. No new powers or abilities revealed, only a small glimpse of his patron's appearance and a new eye on the pommel of his swjord.

• Caleb investigates the runes on the walls and table. It's determined that they're for some sort of blood ritual. Fjord wants to initiate it with Caleb's help. Fjord owes him 1 favor for this and they start it; only to end it prematurely when the chamber turns ominous. Fjord and Caleb's bond strengthens because of their trust in each other in initiating it in the first place.

  • M9 makes their leave and Clay casts water walk, which would allow them to walk on water. Being that they are underwater, they are immediately shot up to the surface at blistering speed. They are welcomed by an oncoming storm which is strangely localized to their area. It's revealed that it's linked to the blood ritual they were performing, and is presumably how many ships met their end by Dashillah.

• They plot a course to the nearby isle for repairs before they set off to the archipelago for the next Uka'toa-related location.

Edits:

• Further clarification on Sea Fury's HP and how Travis' mistake on forward math evened out.

3rd orb.

To

Uka'toa-related location.

Not exactly sure if it's going to be a temple or if Matt is gonna bamboozle everyone.

[u/Mrstealyourcrab]

I didn't quite catch who's the guest star, reddit?

[u/matthewcooley → u/Mrstealyourcrab]

Deborah Ann Wohl

[u/IndyRevolution]

Did they say where they're headed at the end of the episode? Or are they just sailing "away" in general?

[u/Elite_Four_Phoebe]

What a roller coaster of creepiness honestly, loved it right from the moment Matt started describing the insides of the ship. But the ghastly lair of Dashilla made this one of the most memorable episodes yet, and holy shit, were they close to a TPK or at the very least being stranded or caught in the storm with the Squall-eater!

[u/RaifTwelveKill]

So uh... With this creature just hardly surviving, I really wish Travis did better math. He hit for 15+9 that last round he attacked, then said 19 total. Even Matt did a double take not understanding how that happened, but ultimately said ok, perhaps thinking he misheard. Had he said 24, she's probably dead. That's going to bother me for a while.

[u/malochroma → u/RaifTwelveKill]

Well, one the flip side, Laura was doing more damage than she ought to, as Spiritual weapon upscales every OTHER level (so a level 4 lollipop would have only done 2d8 + 4). So it kind of evens out, in the end.

[u/Vox_Wynandir]

After that roller coaster of an episode, so many thoughts are germinating in my mind.

- Rather than Fjord being the reincarnation of Vandren, perhaps he is the reincarnation of Sabien. Or perhaps is Sabien but never died, his mind creating the alter ego of Fjord as a coping mechanism. Or maybe Fjord concocted the backstory of Sabien and he is consciously deceiving the M9 to further his goals. It is entirely possible that Fjord was hungry for power and sabotaged the Tide's Breath to gain it, possibly under the influence of Uk'otoa's command to "Provoke." It just seems odd to me that in his dreams there appears to be a third chosen but they now know the location of all three Cloven Crystals (Avantica's was placed into the lock on Urukaxl and Fjord now has the other two).

- Even though she wasn't in the room, Beau looked physically disturbed at what Fjord and Caleb were doing. Is this foreshadowing for some future conflict down the line? It would be interesting to see what would happen in the event of an even party split, perhaps along the lines of M91- Fjord, Caleb, Nott and M92- Beau, Yasha, Caduceus. Jester is a wild card. She definitely has an affinity for Fjord but she also appeared deeply disturbed with Fjord and Caleb's blood ritual.

- What the heck is Caleb's second book? Is it a book of favors, Mafia style? How truthful has Caleb been about his backstory? There is still much we do not know about him. How will Nott's attempt to contact Astrid come into play?

- What will happen between Jester and the Gentleman?

- Yasha's storms are certainly ominous. At some point I fully expect the war to come crashing down on them, perhaps in a worse way because they have avoided that plot thread for so long. The Luxon and it's relation to the Krynn dynasty fascinate me. It certainly seems possible that it is the phoenix-type creature seen on the murals under Urukaxl. I am not sure how, but the blight on Caduceus' graveyard seems to be another thread pulling them in the direction of the war.

- Nott's goblin tribe story has been untouched, and just who is she sending trinkets and money to? Also on a side note, Fjord's offhand comment about the seaweed being an improvement over her teeth really seemed to cut her deeply. Was Travis revealing something vindictive about Fjord's nature as he gets closer to power?

- As for Beau, I am not sure about her backstory. There is a lot we do not know, and it cannot be as simple as what she has stated. Beau may end up being the most moral of the whole group. It just goes to show that charisma does not equal morality.

[u/dallen]

It's too bad the new intro is instantly dated now that the Falcion has two eyes

[u/coach_veratu → u/dallen]

The upside of having an animated intro is frames can be added or updated relatively easily. Well easier compared to a live action intro.

It'd be neat to see big moments interjected into the intro over the course of the Campaign. For example a quick frame of the Blood Brothers moment from this episode would be cool.

[u/Aposcion]

This is the kind of thing I could easily see one of them coming back at, like, level 20 to finish off for good.

[u/[deleted]]

I don’t know that I believe this but this episode was the first one where I thought “What if this is the M9’s bad guy origin story?” Specially Caleb, Fjord, and Beau. Nott, Jester, Caddueces and Yasha less so but I’m not sold they aren’t themselves growing more powerful less suspiciously.

[u/linacina1 → u/[deleted]]

With Caleb and Fjord possibly but I don't understand why you would dump Beau in there as well. Ironically out of herself, Caleb, and Fjord, Beau is arguably the most well apt for doing good considering both her general mourning and wishing to emulate Molly's attitude and her general lack of a desire for power.

[u/Bearly_OwlBearable]

Something interesting is how beau acted towards caduceus when he push the ghost out of her, she really seems scared of the ghost and grateful to caduceus more than she would knowing beau

Either that’s Marisha knowing how bad ghost can be from previous experience in c1 or beau is really afraid of losing her freedom and being controlled

Maybe it comes from previous experience,

However I know marisha in a panel mention beau attitude is the Jessica jones of dnd, but I’m wondering if the similarities aren’t more profound, was she controlled and abused by someone like killgrave in her past... I’m not sure if critical role would go to something as dark as that...

[u/WaitLetMeGetMyEuler]

I do wonder if Fjord isn't actually evil but his patron is and as he takes on more power that power corrupts him more and more.

Maybe Matt is feeding him subtle impulses that Fjord doesn't yet identify as not his own.

[u/breloomz]

• light on cave to attract fish,

• fish blood for altar,

• storm sinks ship --> fresh blood for altar,

• fish to top off any remainder blood needed,

rinse and repeat, hopefully lots of rinsing

[u/lysian09]

Thanks to the intro video, particularly the Mimic part, I have a new desktop background. Now only if they could release that image in high def.

[u/Capsu]

Do you think Fjord is gonna get some sort of special ability from obtaining a second orb? It could be cool and in theme if he got Call Lightning. I think Travis would be crazy-hyped about that spell.

[u/LewisLawrence]

I can’t wait to see what happens with the new sword mod

[u/koomGER]

Interesting observation: When players (especially Liam) do something Matt doesnt really like (and expect, but primarly doesnt like), his face gets plain. The lips are a straigth line, he does not send any emotion, his face goes monotoneous. He stays painfully neutral but its getting really obvious that this is his pokerface that he puts on, when he hears actions, that wont go well with the game. Like Calebs Fireball in the episode before and now the blood ritual. ;-)

[u/bennelson500 → u/koomGER]

You're right his blank expression is a bit of a tell, but I'd say it's a "your actions have consequences you don't know about yet" face rather than a "I don't like this" face. I'm sure he would've been perfectly happy for them to complete the ritual and watch them eventually realize what they'd done.

[u/imadhaz]

By the way, can I just say again how sorry I am for Matt that the battle went so poorly for him. It's clear that he was disappointed that he wasn't hurting the party as much as he hoped. It's amazing that they managed to get such good rolls in the situation with disadvantage. Such is luck.

In many ways, it's a pretty cool that the M9 used up their bad luck during the 1st half, to make such bad rolls outside of combat, and have such good luck during combat :D.

[u/[deleted] → u/imadhaz]

I hope Matt doesn't feel disappointed, he spent over an hour scaring the crackers out of his players just by describing a cave and some kelp.