The Whispering Reeds
A scenario for Call of Cthulhu, 7th Edition
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Background
Something ancient stirs beneath the peat bogs of the Somerset Levels. Three local labourers have vanished in as many weeks, and the villagers of Greymoor have begun to bar their windows before dark.
The investigators receive a letter from Dr. Evelyn Cross, a botanist at Bristol University who believes the disappearances are connected to unusual plant specimens she recovered from the bogs — specimens that appear to move on their own when left unobserved.
The Investigators' Hook
Each investigator should have a personal connection to either Dr. Cross or the Somerset region. Possible hooks include: a missing relative among the labourers, a professional interest in the botanic anomalies, or a strange recurring dream of black water and piping reeds.
Scene One: Greymoor Village
The village sits low in the mist. Smoke from the chimneys hangs in the still air, and the only sound is the distant piping of something you cannot quite name. Your motor-car rattles over the stone bridge and into the village square, where a handful of locals watch you with expressions ranging from suspicion to barely-concealed relief.
Key NPCs
The following characters are central to the investigation. Full stat blocks are given for any NPC who may enter physical conflict.
Attacks per round: 1
Brawl 45% (22/9), damage 1D3
Police Baton 45% (22/9), damage 1D6
Armor: none.
Skills: Law 40%, Listen 50%, Spot Hidden 45%, Persuade 55%.
Investigation Points
The following leads are available through roleplaying, skill rolls, and careful exploration of the village and its surroundings.
- The pub landlord refuses to discuss the missing men.
- A chalk mark on the church door has been recently scrubbed away.
- The local coroner's records show three "accidental drowning" verdicts in the last six weeks.
- Dr. Cross's cottage shows signs of a hasty departure.
Dodge Outcomes
| Dodge Outcome Level | Result |
|---|---|
| Fumble | Out of position: take a penalty die on your next action. |
| Failure | Normal hit: the attack resolves as rolled. |
| Success | Attack is avoided with no consequence. |
| Critical | Prime position: add one bonus die to your next action. |
The cult meets at the stone circle each new moon. Any investigator who makes a successful Spot Hidden roll near the village green will notice muddy boot-prints leading toward the bogs. If they follow, see Scene Three: The Circle.
Sequence of Play
When an investigator attempts a physical action in combat, proceed as follows:
- The Keeper describes the situation and available options.
- Investigators declare intended actions simultaneously.
- Resolution proceeds in DEX order, highest first.
- Apply damage, sanity loss, and other consequences.
- Advance to the next round if combat continues.