Session one: Aka Recorded in the Year of the Guiding Star, under the Watch of the Librarium Eternum
Of the Meeting in Neverwinter
In the city of Neverwinter, where the winds carry the scent of salt and secrets, there begins a tale that would shape the fates of five disparate souls. Each received a summons, written in a hand familiar yet mysterious, bidding them to the warmth and intrigue of a nameless tavern.
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Within its walls, amidst the low murmur of schemers and wanderers, sat Gundren Rockseeker, a dwarf whose laughter carried the weight of camaraderie and secrets untold. By his side was Sildar Hallwinter, a human warrior clad in silvered armour that seemed to reflect the resolve of his soul. It was Gundren who beckoned the adventurers to gather, his grin wide and his intentions veiled.
There were five:
• Dapps Plateforge, a rogue of dwarven descent, once a soldier, now a shadowwalker.
• Durin Grumblefinger, a dwarven barbarian whose faith in his doom is as fierce as his fury.
• Logan, a human fighter forged by the fires of war.
• Selrach, a human barbarian, molded by the lawless ways of a criminal past.
• Hebbiwyt Morbal, a cleric of human lineage, carrying the weight of divine purpose.
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Image – Tome of Taverns Copyright 2023, One-Eyed Werebear Gaming, Inc.
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“Strangers you are to each other,” Gundren proclaimed, “but not to me. I call upon your skills for a task of import—and reward.”
Thus, Gundren revealed his favour: a wagon of provisions, to be escorted to the frontier settlement of Phandalin. Though his excitement hinted at some greater discovery, he shared little more than this: that he and his brothers had unearthed something of vast significance. For their trouble, ten gold pieces each would be their prize.
Though Dapps sought to bargain for greater payment, the deal was struck, and plans laid for their departure with the morning light. Yet Gundren, ever the charming schemer, had prepared one final surprise.
The Enchanted Feast
A meal was brought forth, each dish served upon enchanted plates of elven craft. The adventurers were instructed to trace the runes upon the rim, unlocking the alchemy within.
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As they ate, their senses were transported to a forest dreamscape, awash with magical hues and melodies that resonated with their very souls. There, in the midst of this ethereal vision, Gundren appeared to each, offering gifts of power and promise:
• To Dapps, a Potion of Heroism, for courage unyielding.
• To Logan, a Potion of Healing, for wounds yet to come.
• To Selrach, a Moon-Touched Shortsword, its blade gleaming with soft, celestial light.
• To Durin, a Horn of Silent Alarm, for warnings unspoken.
• To Hebbiwyt, a Candle of the Deep, whose flame defies the darkest depths.
When the vision faded, the bond between them had begun to take root.
Of the Journey Upon the High Road
The company set forth upon the High Road, where the breath of the Sword Coast mingled with tales of peril. Travellers warned of bandits and marauding gangs, their voices heavy with fear and loss. One merchant, robbed of all, spoke bitterly of organized brigands haunting the trails.
Still, the road wound southward, and they pressed on.
The Triboar Trail and the Goblin Ambush
Upon reaching the Triboar Trail, a grim sight met their eyes: two horses, slain and lifeless, sprawled across the path. Durin approached cautiously, his Dwarvish Barbarian instincts sharp. He identified the steeds as belonging to Gundren and Sildar, their saddlebags looted, their deaths by arrows evident. Nearby, an empty map case hinted at secrets stolen.
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The quiet of the scene was shattered by a rustling among the bushes. The adventurers braced themselves as goblins erupted from the underbrush, weapons bared.
The battle was swift and brutal. Durin was injured in the goblins’ initial onslaught, his mighty form brought low. Logan, too, suffered wounds. Yet the tide turned as the adventurers rallied, Selrach and the young cleric, Hebbiwyt were resolute in their defence. Three goblins fell to blade and fury, while the last fled into the wilds.
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Durin, battered but determined, investigated the goblins’ lair. Hidden trails led northward, marked by the signs of ambush and the dragging of bodies. The evidence was clear: Gundren and Sildar had been taken captive.
Of the Debate and the Path Chosen
The company debated their course. Some argued for continuing to Phandalin to complete their task, yet loyalty and friendship swayed their hearts. They resolved to follow the goblins’ trail and rescue their lost companions.
The Trail of Cunning and Peril
The trail led into the wilderness, a path treacherous and cunningly trapped. Selrach’s keen eye uncovered the dangers—first a hidden snare, then a concealed pit meant to ensnare the unwary. His vigilance proved vital, sparing the group from grievous harm.
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Deeper into the forest they ventured, their purpose clear, though the fate of Gundren and Sildar remained shrouded in uncertainty.
Thus ends the first account of their journey. What perils await beyond the trail, only the turning pages of fate shall reveal.
Recorded by the Chronicler’s Hand, in service to seekers of tales untold.
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