Ebonshade

After arriving in Ebonshade, the heirs head to a nearby tavern to rest and discuss their plans for the night while the Countess's daughter heads to speak to the Witches of Ebonshade. After discussing their plans to speak to the Witches and Count Draven, Marik brings up Baron Abaddon's offer again, believing that he should be the one to have his blood drained should they pursue it.

Edwinn also opens up to his siblings about his connection to Draven, telling the truth that he is Alistar Draven's grandson on his mother's side. Despite the shock many of the siblings offer Edwinn support, knowing that he is not the King in Crimson himself.

Cailynn and Via decide to speak to the Witches of Ebonshade that night instead of waiting for the morning. Upon arriving, they find a chorus of women circling a crib and singing a low deep song to....something. They are warned to never look inside the cradle. After speaking to the witches, they learn that they require three things to traverse safely through the lands: "The Way", "The Ward", and "The Voice". Cailynn writes down the song that the witches sing, believing it could help serve as part of the ward to protect the siblings.

The next day, the King's Hand moves out to go and visit Count Draven, being received by him and his undead servants. After receiving his permission to enter the woods and killing any undead as needed, he also offers mapping tools and knowledge that will help the King's Hand traverse the woods. His price: 25 corpses from the dungeons of Crown's Rest for the next year. Despite disagreements, the deal is ultimately accepted as the King's Hand move on to try and find the other pieces they need.

The search for the ward proves difficult as the heirs try to find an object known as a Hushbreaker, which would allow them to deal with the silence of the forest they're moving into. After visiting numerous shops and locations, they are ultimately able to assemble the pieces that they need to create the device, requiring two large chunks of concentrated Ryanite.

With their gear and deals in place, the King's Hand takes the last bit of time they need to prepare before setting off on their quest, their three day times already ticking down....