Chapter 1: The Caravan
SockGM
Dungeon Master
Welcome to the kingdom of Tethyr, a nation on the west coast of Faerun. Part of what was once called the Lands of Intrigue.
Our story begins after the Holiday of Greengrass the official start of Spring and a very busy time of year for the farmers in Tethyr, and specifically the Trade Way that stretches up and down the entire Sword Coast. The Town of Mosstone is where the opening events of our journey take place.
A caravan of assorted goods, lumber, precious metals and passengers has departed Darromar on its way up the Trade Way to the coast city of Murann. Reports of missing caravans and lost goods has forced the hire of a group of mercenaries from Star Protective Services. The journey has been smooth. That is...up until last night, when several of the group from Star Protective Services vanished while everyone else rested. The loss of two thirds of his company without a trace of evidence left behind has the mercenary captain, Haren Tortis, in dire need of safety for his caravan as well as recruits to search for his missing comrades.
Knowing Mosstone is near, the caravan hastily makes its way there.
Upon arrival, Captain Tortis orders his remaining members to go through the town and find him some able men and women to form a search party. Looking at a couple of more intimidating members of his company. He orders them to go to the Inn and bring anyone willing.
Our story begins after the Holiday of Greengrass the official start of Spring and a very busy time of year for the farmers in Tethyr, and specifically the Trade Way that stretches up and down the entire Sword Coast. The Town of Mosstone is where the opening events of our journey take place.
A caravan of assorted goods, lumber, precious metals and passengers has departed Darromar on its way up the Trade Way to the coast city of Murann. Reports of missing caravans and lost goods has forced the hire of a group of mercenaries from Star Protective Services. The journey has been smooth. That is...up until last night, when several of the group from Star Protective Services vanished while everyone else rested. The loss of two thirds of his company without a trace of evidence left behind has the mercenary captain, Haren Tortis, in dire need of safety for his caravan as well as recruits to search for his missing comrades.
Knowing Mosstone is near, the caravan hastily makes its way there.
Upon arrival, Captain Tortis orders his remaining members to go through the town and find him some able men and women to form a search party. Looking at a couple of more intimidating members of his company. He orders them to go to the Inn and bring anyone willing.
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Comments
Storm and Jystn, describe your appearance
You notice a fine rapier at his belt along with a couple of ornate, but deadly looking Daggers. A small crossbow is also present and his hand lingers close enough to be able to grab the weapons and ready them at a moment's notice.
As he shifts position his movement appears fluid and graceful like he is at one with the environment.
“Is there anywhere a guy can get a drink in this town?”
He nods toward the bar.
"You do know that you are in a Tavern, right?"
“The name’s Kan. You from around here? I meant no disrespect by my comment as you definitely look like the type we are looking for. Can I buy you a drink?”
By the Gods, I did not! I thought this was an inn. I guess it’s showing that I’m not from around here. Actually on our way to Muraan and stopped in town to see if anybody would be looking for work to help protect our caravan. You wouldn’t happen to know anybody like that would ya?
No disrespect taken, fellow warrior. I tend to be a bit edgy these days. I am the last of my tribe. It comes with certain heavy emotions. I would love a drink. What is it you're looking for a man like me for?
Barkeep, two pints of ale please!
I can understand your being on edge, and I am sorry to hear about the news of your tribe. It has been a rough day for me as well.
My Dragonborn companion, Ruff, and I have been helping escort a caravan for the past few days and a number of our fellow mercenaries disappeared last night while we were asleep. Thankfully nothing happened to the two of us, but we are concerned about what happened to the others and who may have been involved. We are looking to increase our numbers and set out to find out what happened to them. Would joining us in this sort of 'search party' interest you at all?
I am in need of work actually. What is the pay like and where are you heading?
If the spirits have willed your way to me, then who am I to not follow? Is it just muscle you seek? I am sorry to hear of your lost companions. This life is full of strife and these lands seem to be constantly in turmoil.
It is great to hear you are willing and able! Muscle is what we need, but any other tricks you have up your sleeve may prove to be useful since the details of what we will encounter are unknown at this time.
Count me in.
Where did that piece of meat come from? I think I will pass on your offer, but thank you for the consideration. It sounds like we will be spending some time together, so I'll try a bite once my stomach starts to growl a little bit louder.
We pay 5GP a day. I must warn you, half of our outfit disappeared overnight and we don't know what happened to them. It is dangerous work.
That's a great deal. I'll take it. And I'm not concerned about the danger. Count me in.
*Taking a massive bite of the leg* Suit yourself. I've learned to never pass up a meal. I'm not even sure this is turkey. Could be goblin. But I'd prefer a drow leg......
As you approach you get a better look at 2 in particular, one whose shackles are being removed.
Captain Tortis sees you returning and says
@Proclus and @Neda describe and introduce yourselves please.
She hums cheerfully as she reaches down and retrieves her belongings, including a wooden staff and a small crossbow, along with magical supplies and healing herbs.
"Hi there!" she exclaims energetically as she waves to the group, "I've been told you'd like some help. We can't help everyone, but everyone can help someone! I'm Neda! What's the plan?"
I must ask.. How come the shackles?
She nudges the local guard playfully.