The world of the Forgotten Realms is one of high fantasy, populated by elves, dwarves, halflings, humans, and other folk. In the Realms, knights dare the crypts of the fallen dwarf kings of Delzoun, seeking glory and treasure. Rogues prowl the dark alleyways of teeming cities such as Neverwinter and Baldur’s Gate. Clerics in the service of gods wield mace and spell, questing against the terrifying powers that threaten the land. Wizards plunder the ruins of the fallen Netherese empire, delving into secrets too dark for the light of day. Bards sing of kings, queens, heroes, and tyrants who died long ago.
On the roads and rivers of the Realms travel minstrels and peddlers, merchants and guards, soldiers and sailors. Steel-hearted adventurers from backcountry farmsteads and sleepy villages follow tales of strange, glorious, faraway places. Good maps and clear trails can take even an inexperienced youth with dreams of glory far across the world, but these paths are never safe. Fell magic and deadly monsters are the perils one faces when traveling in the Realms. Even farms and freeholds within a day’s walk of a city can fall prey to monsters, and no place is safe from the sudden wrath of a dragon.
Map of the Sword Coast
The map below shows a region of the Forgotten Realms called the Sword Coast. This is a place of adventure, where daring souls delve into ancient strongholds and explore the ruins of long-lost kingdoms. Amid a lawless wilderness of jagged, snow-capped peaks, alpine forests, bitter winds, and roaming monsters, the coast holds such great bastions of civilization as the city of Neverwinter, in the shadow of the fuming volcano known as Mount Hotenow.
Neverwinter
This city was badly damaged when Mount Hotenow erupted some fifty years ago. Now, the City of Skilled Hands works to rebuild under the watchful eye of its Lord Protector, Dagult Neverember, who rules in the absence of an heir to Neverwinter’s crown. At present, no legitimate heirs to the old Alagondar royal line are known to exist, and many believe that the line is ended. Lord Neverember, taking no chances, quietly pays off or disposes of anyone claiming a connection to the rulers of old.
High Road
This highway hugs the coast, connecting Neverwinter to the coastal cities of Luskan to the north and Waterdeep to the south. For years, the stretch of road south of Neverwinter fell into disuse because of frequent monster attacks. Of late, efforts have been made to keep the road safe, with light patrols of guards on horseback moving between Neverwinter and Leilon.
Triboar Trail
This path south of Neverwinter Wood is the safest route between Neverwinter and the town of Triboar, located in the Dessarin Valley to the east (off the map). The trail is not patrolled, and monster attacks are commonplace.
Sword Mountains
These steep, craggy, snow-capped mountains are home to scattered tribes of orcs as well as other monsters. Icespire Peak is the tallest among them. Their foothills are strewn with the ruins of bygone kingdoms, and more than a few half-forgotten dungeons and tombs.
Kryptgarden Forest
This ancient forest tucked behind the Sword Mountains contains the ruins of bygone dwarven civilizations.
Mere of Dead Men
Travelers on the High Road, which skirts the mere to the east, must resist being lured into this cold and desolate swamp by bobbing will-o’-wisps. Countless adventurers have perished in the mere, drawn by tales of ruined castles half-sunk in the mire.
Welcome to Phandalin
The frontier town of Phandalin is built on the ruins of a much older settlement. Hundreds of years ago, the old Phandalin was a thriving human town whose people were firmly allied with neighboring dwarves and gnomes. Then an orc horde swept through the area and laid waste to the settlement, and Phandalin was abandoned for centuries.
In the last three or four years, settlers from the cities of Neverwinter and Waterdeep have begun the hard work of reclaiming the ruins of Phandalin. The new settlement is home now to farmers, woodcutters, fur traders, and prospectors drawn by stories of gold and platinum in the foothills of the Sword Mountains. The arrival of a white dragon threatens to destroy all that they’ve worked to rebuild.
Map of Phandalin
Stonehill Inn
This modest, two-story roadhouse has six rooms for rent on the upper floor. A bed for the night costs 5 sp, while a meal costs 1 sp. The proprietor is a short, friendly male human named Toblen Stonehill. Toblen is a native of the town of Triboar to the east. He came to Phandalin to prospect, but soon realized that he knew a lot more about running an inn than he did about mining.
Barthen’s Provisions
The shelves of this general store stock most ordinary goods and supplies, including backpacks, bedrolls, rope, and rations. Barthen’s doesn’t stock weapons or armor, but characters can purchase other adventuring gear here, with the exception of items that cost more than 25 gp. The proprietor, Elmar Barthen, is a lean and balding human man of fifty years. He employs a couple of young clerks (Ander and Thistle) who help load and unload wagons.
Lionshield Coster
This building is owned by the Lionshields, a merchant company based in the city of Yartar over a hundred miles to the east. The company ships finished goods to Phandalin and other small settlements throughout the region.
The master of the Phandalin post is a sharp-tongued human woman of thirty-five named Linene Graywind. Linene keeps a supply of armor and weapons, all of which are for sale to interested buyers.
Phandalin Miner’s Exchange
Miners come here to have their valuable finds weighed, measured, and paid out. The exchange also serves as an unofficial records office, registering claims to various streams and excavations around the area. Enough wealth is hidden in the nearby streams and valleys to support a good number of independent prospectors.
The exchange is a great place to meet people who spend a lot of time out and about in the countryside surrounding Phandalin. The guildmaster is a calculating human woman named Halia Thornton.
Shrine of Luck
Phandalin’s only temple is a shrine made of stones taken from the nearby ruins. It is dedicated to Tymora (goddess of luck and good fortune) and is normally in the care of a zealous elf acolyte named Sister Garaele.
Townmaster’s Hall
The townmaster’s hall has sturdy stone walls, a pitched wooden roof, and a bell tower at the back. The job board next to the front door features a sparse number of notices, all written in Common and in the same hand. All the notices on the job board are written by Harbin Wester, Phandalin’s duly appointed townmaster. Harbin is a pompous, middle-aged banker who lives in a house east of the Townmaster’s Hall.
Dragon of Icespire Peak - Campaign 2
The adventure begins...
Nestled in the rocky foothills of the snow-capped Sword Mountains is the mining town of Phandalin, which consists of forty or fifty simple log buildings. Crumbling stone ruins surround the newer houses and shops, showing how this must have been a much larger town in centuries past.
Phandalin’s residents are quiet, hard-working folk who came from distant cities to eke out a life amid the harsh wilderness. They are farmers, stonecutters, blacksmiths, traders, prospectors, and children. The town has no walls and no garrison, but most of the adults keep weapons within easy reach in case the need for arms should arise.
Visitors are welcome here, particularly if they have coin to spend or news to share. The Stonehill Inn at the center of town offers modest lodging and meals. A couple of doors down from the inn, posted outside the Townmaster’s Hall, is a job board for adventurers.
Lilly looked from the window at the people walking about the street, sighed and tapped on the table few beats of "Muddy Road". It was her second day in Phandalin and she was ready to move on - somewhere, anywhere, really.
First day red haired halfling spent walking around the overgrown village curious about so called "frontier town". (Of course, she did it after she talked to Toblen Stonehill. They did not know each other back in Tribor, but "Fox and Sunflower" was a well known inn (especially among those understanding good food) and the title of "fellow countryman" is a good enough icebreaker to begin an acquaintanceship. Lilly was young, curious and well enough mannered to honestly admire what he had accomplished with Stonehill Inn in such a short time, so they get alone fine). Phandalin was interesting, sure, with new buildings and old ruins. The enthusiasm (and stubbornness) of the people here was close to her own heart - not many of her family could brag about traveling even that far, but look at her! Yes, Lilly liked it here well enough. However, now she wanted to move further and yet she could neither decide where to nor saw the company to join. She was not crazy to walk the Tribor Trail or even High Road alone, even if bandits would not care about lonely halfling, monsters might.
She sighed again and looked around checking the visitors of the Inn, as if expecting new faces (someone could slip in while she was looking outside? One can always hope.)
Onu absentmindedly adjusts his carefully tailored jacket, tugging the hem to ensure it lays correctly over his lithe frame. Picking a bit of lint off his lapel, a quick tug on his bowtie, a thumb through the waistband of his pants to check that his shirt wasn't bunched anywhere.
Effortless style took quite a bit of effort.
Satisfied that he was ready, he stepped out of the shadows of the alleyway and began striding toward the front door of the Stonehill Inn. KD was somewhere nearby, but this part of the job was generally best done alone. This was the part where he needed to convince these country bumpkins to trust him. Or at least, that's how this normally went.
Today, well today was going to be different. It needed to be different. The last job had nearly fallen apart. It had fallen apart if Onu was being honest with himself and he had nearly gotten pinched, or killed or worse - embarrassed. KD had come through with one of her ingenious inventions, giving him just the edge he needed to slip loose and disappear into the forest when those Marshalls had shown up.
Maybe it was time to try something new. A new hussle to keep him fed and KD supplied.
Striding into the small Inn, the half-elf paused for a moment to let the light from the street frame him dramatically for those sitting in the darkened tavern, his bowler crowning his slender height, the cap of the polished walking stick in his hand catching the light for a moment. He knew the effect he was creating, a bit of drama to draw their eye while the light blinded everyone for a second or two. That second or two is where Onu lived. That barest hint of an advantage over his opponent, the pause as they tried to catch up that let him drive the cadence of the encounter. Let him control the conversation, lead the dance or get the first strike in before they even knew there was a fight brewing.
A deep breath through the nose, the scent of fire and ale, of a closed space but a clean one, the hint of bodies washed frequently but not daily, the lingered aroma of a stew of some sort. Stepping across the threshold, he made his way swiftly towards a table with a commanding view of the room and chose the chair that faced away from the door and the common area. An old trick, one designed to draw them in and make them come to him - letting them think they were initiating the encounter.
An older but well built and healthy looking man walks into the Stonehill Inn. He has a well kept white beard that is braided in a few places and an impressive mustache to match. He wears mundane traveling clothes and atop his head is a well worn cap. He carries a large backpack with two wooden quarterstaffs strapped to its side.
Walking up to the counter he asks in a friendly and polite tone "excuse me there young man, might I trouble you for a moment?" "I'm looking for Daran Edermath, owner of an orchard 'round these parts I'm told." "Miserable old elf, if I'm to be honest." The white haired man chuckles a little and winks. "Happy to buy something cold to wet my whistle in exchange for the trouble."
(like this, but minus the skulls, and with just a mundane quarterstaff for now)
A hooded figure. Seated in the corner of a tavern. Partially hidden. Making an impression. Mystery. Draw them in like moths to flame. Onu always said. Distract them with a striking impression. Usually it was him doing all of this, but this time, it was her turn.
A new hustle to keep her supplied and Onu fed. It was time to try something new.
She was a quick study. Always had been. Reading a room was like reading an inventory list. Put things together, get a mechanical arcane wonder. Put people together, get them to do what you want so you can get coin to buy the things to put together to make more arcane wonders. She watched the villagers and travelers amiably share the space. Drink together. Unsuspecting. Perhaps that red-haired halfling. The figure recalled seeing her around twice before. She was checking out the room as well. Surely she'd see the mysterious hooded figure and approach. But no, she was not interested. Like so many others. The mysterious hooded figure huffed a frustrated sigh.
Then the door opened and there in the doorway... Onu?!? Making an entrance. Oh my, he's going to command attention. Everyone was looking at him, he had the timing down perfectly at this point. It's true, he's better at this, might as well scrap the plan and roll with it. He'll see the mysterious hooded figure and approach and they'll play it that way. That's fine. She could improvise just as well as he could. She waited for him to approach.
He then darted forward and sat at a table facing away from everyone. Hmmm. A bold move. Not approaching the mysterious hooded figure, nor even reclaiming the part of the Mysterious Hooded Figure. He wasn't hooded, he was a seated figure, but only the back of a head, but one had to admit, he was mysterious. Was he playing at not seeing her? He hadn't really missed her, had he? She began to rise but then--
Another man, long in years perhaps by the shade of his beard, and carrying two long sticks, came in soon after, and the mysterious hooded figure sat back down again. A mark? Or a co-conspirator? She listened to the bit about the orchard owner and him ordering a drink. Not very promising, fruit. But could be useful. She'd keep an ear open.
She stands up and, immediately, realizes why no one has noticed her in the corner... her seat completely obscured by a set of shelves holding glasses and a pillar.
Head hanging even lower, she scuffs her feet to the bar, plops down next to the red-haired halfing woman, orders a drink (this explains the lousy table service!), and asks the old man, "what miserable elf has you chasing fruit?"without a hint of context or introduction.
"Oh, well hello"says the old man cheerfully. "If you'd met him, you'd know the one!" He chuckles. "No, no, just looking for a friend, that's all. Oh, and perhaps a room?" The human man looks back to Toblen for a moment regarding availability of a room.
The trek from Neverwinter to Phandalin had gone relatively well in Demetrios' eyes. With the willingness of a merchant, the paladin was able to secure a safer way of travel to the small town, preferring to have the company than to make the trip alone. Prior to parting ways with the older merchant man, he offers a hand in setting up his stand, a way to further show his gratitude. In return, the man would point him in the direction of the Townmaster's hall, but also shows him where the Stonehill Inn was as well, just a block or so down.
"I'm bettin' yer eager to get yer hands on a notice, butcha best get some rest. Sleepin' on the road ain't nothin' compared to sleepin' on a bed!"The merchant says insistently, trying to give a hardy push to the metal man in the inn's direction.
Demetrios chuckles lightly at the attempts, though eventually gives in. "I will, I will."He assures, checking to make sure he had everything he needed before heading off. "Be safe, Wilfred."
"You too, Demi!"
The paladin gives a final smile and respectful nod in Wilfred's direction before turning back making his way to the inn, taking a quick look around the area as he did so. This place was certainly smaller than Neverwinter. More cozy, in his eyes. Though he just hoped he could do what he had sought out to do here in the first place. After a rest, of course, much to Wilfred's insistence.
Cognac hue's scanned over the inn once he made his way inside, mainly to get an idea of how the people here were had there been anyone milling about. His eyes are immediately drawn to a head of curly red hair and a hooded figure next to them, having struck up a conversation to the older gentleman now in front of him. Had any look been cast his way, he merely returns them with a nod and a proper smile.
The paladin had been heavily armored, and it didn't take much to tell he had taken very good care of it with the way it had been polished. Silvery white steel would shine in the light of the inn, followed along with gold and black accents, and in the middle of his breastplate had been the emblem of Torm. In one of his arms he had carried his helmet that went along with the ensemble, with a plume of fine red feathers atop it. He had a handsome face, clean shaven and chiseled, with dark brown hair slicked back.
At the mention of a room, he speaks up and pipes in, "A room for me as well, if you don't mind."
I'm bad at descriptions so here his reference image haha
Armor isn't so exaggerated and also decided to forgo the facial scar!
Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Aww... It begun so promisingly! Big folk was practically pouring into the inn. First that a touch theatrical fellow (half-elf, they can't help it), then the huge old guy (he immediately become her best hope), then ... Oooh... The paladin got not just the glance but an open stare of two shiny green eyes (Lilly remembered to close her mouth). It's not like she saw a knight for the fist time in her life, but shiny is shiny and little halfling would not deny she had a magpie side. She smiled and was ready to wave even, but realised in time she is not in her Inn. Toblen was a good fellow but unlikely would allow to bother guests, so she just nodded in response.
Everything was downhill from here: half-elf seemed to be disinterested in the crowd, the old man came to visit a friend and the knight ordered a room. One thing was clear - no one is going anywhere from town today. Lilly sighed. Well, there is always tomorrow.
Did not mean, though, the day was lost - for example, it seemed she could learn more about the town (she was not sure what for, but why not). No, Lilly was not eavesdropping! But the conversation was happening right here, near her. The hooded woman did not seem to bother with empty pleasantries (an experienced traveler, no doubts) and conversation promised to become interesting - in crossroads inns they always are, the rule might work here as well. Lilly pretended to be interested in something behind the window and opened her ears.
When Demetrios in his shining armor enters, the old man gives him a quick glance then takes one step to his side to give the new fellow room at the bar. The armor and Torm's emblem were more than familiar, but that didn't necessarily mean that he was a member of the Order.
(Wondering if the old man would have an idea if Demetrios is a member of the Order of the Gauntlet, such as via rank insignia on him, or the lack there of, or other smaller details one veteran might know when looking at another.)
KD grunts negatively. "Doubt it,"she replies to the first question. "Sounds like an odd friend. This bloke over here might be odder. Who stands in doors posing for a portrait?" Once she has her drink in hand, she stands up, nods to the older man in an awkward apology-cum-goodbye and turns to Onu's table, her cloak spinning gently and the hood falling partially away. She's carrying this rather dense-looking bag that seems it could burst at any moment.
Her free hand goes to her mouth and she mutters briefly.
Onu:
Over message: "Can't believe you didn't see me. Actually I can. I'm bad at this. I'll play second fiddle this time. Again. Your entrance: 7/10. Coming to you, unless you want to run this alone."
She begins to wander past tables in the general direction of the table Onu settled at.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Perception 8'of course I saw you, and yes come join me. let's see what we can knock loose'. The half-elf lied fluently to his comrade
He knew KD was going to meet him here, but had somehow missed her tucked into the corner when we came in. That was distressing. What else had he missed? Keeping his seat at the table, Onu signaled to the barkeep for a drink, using the man's approach and conversation as an excuse to turn and take better stock of the newcomers.
Gleaming armor. White hair. Mound of curls. Now, now. This was promising.
Seeing KD make her move, Onu uses the moment to it's full advantage. Casting his voice to carry and adding the warmth and depth that always helps his approach, he speaks to the three strangers at the bar 'You all look full of stories, stories from the road and from lives well lived. Allow me to trade you your tales for a taste of this good mans ale? Join me, please!'
Noticing the older gentleman's side step to give him more room, Demetrios dips his head slightly as he moves a bit forward, his smile remaining. "Thank you, sir."
(Not sure if this was a DM thing or not, haha, but looking at him currently, you see no indication that Demetrios is apart of the Order.)
The paladin's attention is then drawn back to the hooded figure when they speak, then watches them head off to where a half-elf had been sitting. He cocks his head to the side when he notices the bag, but doesn't question on it and leaves them be for now, casting his gaze elsewhere.
Up until he hears the voice of the half-elf speaking to him and the other two nearby. He glances over to the other two before his eyes finally end up on the man who spoke, "Ah, well, I'm not sure if I have many entertaining stories to share, but... I supposed a drink wouldn't hurt." So far everyone looks to be kind here... That's a relief.
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Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
"Oh, no no, thank you. I have a friend to find, and these old bones need a rest once I soak them in some good ale." The old man smiles at Onu and gives him a nod of appreciation. While waiting for the bartender to bring an ale and give him and information on where to find Daran he turns back to the heavily armored fellow. "Greetings soldier, what brings you to these parts?"
The promising conversation died out but only to be replaced by even better one. Now we are talking! (Literally. Figuratively too) Quite flattered to be included into the circle of "experienced travelers full of stories" (did not she tell to Lavinia, that the suit is exactly as the one she saw on an adventuring lady? And that simpleton dared not to believe! Who is laughing now, huh?) Lilly nodded somewhat importantly and noted while moving to the half-elv's table: "The hot apple cider here is not bad either". (It was of the simplest variety, but right now it was not about the drink) Lilly climber onto her chair and looked the table over. Yep, exactly as those loud traveling companies that she saw so many times (and close enough to the stories too). As of stories - oh, she heard tons of those! Saw quite many unfolding too. A perk of inn-worker. She pushed away a curl of hair from her eyes and smiled happily "I am Lilly. A traveler, just like you said. So, which stories do you like?"
KD paused, processing, before continuing on to the table, sinking down into a chair.
As the others approach the table, moths to flame, she looks up, and the group can see a brown face, alert hazel eyes, and short but slightly unkempt dreadlocks under the hood. A wry mouth quirks into a self-aware grin.
"I find I learn something even from boring stories. Sometimes it's what's not said more than what's said," she says. "Lilly? You can call me KD."
"Oh, please call me Demetrios," The paladin advised, deciding to wait beside the old man while he waited for his drink. "And I'm here just to lend a hand where I can. I planned on heading to the townhall to see what I could do shortly after I arrived, however I was told I ought to rest prior to doing so."He chuckles lightly at the thought of old man Wilfred trying to push him over to the inn.
"Though are you certain you wouldn't like to sit and have a chat with the others?"He gestures over to the table where the red-haired halfling, the half-elf, and the hooded figure sat. "An interesting group of individuals they seem... and perhaps afterwards I could aid in finding your friend?"
Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Melvin had hoped to find some clue to the secrets of the Kryptgarden Keeps, but the people here in Phandalin seemed to know very little about the lands they trod on, much to his dismay. With his investigation at a dead end for now, he dedcides to go for a drink at the Stonehill tavern, wash down the dust and perhaps inspire new ideas.
As he enters the tavern, he sees an assortment of interesting individuals at the bar, engaged in storytelling of sorts. Careful now, don't get too excited... you know what happens when we lose control. They get afraid and we have to run again.
Curious, but also careful, Melvin takes a seat just within earshot and orders an ale.
To all those inspecting the new arrival, you see a an average looking older traveller with a matted, greying, auburn mane, thick grimy stubble with mottled light-brown skin and watery green eyes sit down. There's nothing remarkable about this man, apart rom the fact that he seems almost too unremarkable, every detail adding to the effect of averageness to the point that he stands out again. All the more so, when upon second inspection, you notice the tidy and well-looked after book he carries within his pack, peeking out just a little.
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
'An old friend ay? That must mean old stories. And old stories are the best kind to be sure. But I don't mean to delay you or waylay you. Was simply hoping for a bit of company in this friendly place.' Turning his attention, and his dazzling smile to the redheaded halfling, Onu continues 'Barkeep, a cider for the lady here, and ales all around for all my new friends. And Lilly, was it? Tell us what brings you in to this fine establishment this evening?'
Onu pointedly ignored KD, maybe overselling the fact that they didn't know each other, but at this stage he found most people were so caught up in themselves they hardly noticed anyone else.
Lilly's cheeks flushed with delight as she found herself a center of attention even if for a while. (Onu was absolutely right at least on her account - at the moment the young girl would hardly notice the second sundering, yet alone someone's exchange of secret signs). She accepted her hot cider (forgiving it all the missing spices - where would Toblen get them here anyway), and was about to prove KD wrong with her statement about the boring stories (heard about two competing witchers? Nothing boring about that!) when Onu asked her personal story. Lilly sat very straight, looking at least an inch taller, made a very serious face expression (yes, she practiced - one of her stature does not look serious without ... well, serious practice) and said in a tone that was supposed to sound both mysterious and casual in the same time. "Right of passage". She made a dramatic pause and elaborated. "This is a family tradition. You see, the one gifted with magic - runs in my family, so you know - have to prove one's worth of it, show ability to handle the responsibilities that come with such a gift". The girl could not hold that serious tone for long and finished with another sunny smile. "And I am the gifted one. So, I am traveling." "Would like to travel further, though,"added she in a second.
The cloaked figure notices the slightly dissatisfied expression on Lilly’s face after her sip of cider. KD sniffs, leans over, reaches out with a grubby finger, and touches the handle of Lilly’s mug of cider. She mutters a few words and it’s almost like a faint breeze ruffles the shabby cloak, and then she returns to her former slump.
Then an aroma fills the nostrils of the people around the table. Cinnamon, of course. Cloves, absolutely. Is that a hint of cardamom? And ginger, definitely some ginger. It completes the gestalt of what mulled cider should be, based on what she understood might be missing.
She raises her hand and mutters a change in her order to hit cider. She gives no explanation.
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Campaign start: Unknown
The Forgotten Realms
The world of the Forgotten Realms is one of high fantasy, populated by elves, dwarves, halflings, humans, and other folk. In the Realms, knights dare the crypts of the fallen dwarf kings of Delzoun, seeking glory and treasure. Rogues prowl the dark alleyways of teeming cities such as Neverwinter and Baldur’s Gate. Clerics in the service of gods wield mace and spell, questing against the terrifying powers that threaten the land. Wizards plunder the ruins of the fallen Netherese empire, delving into secrets too dark for the light of day. Bards sing of kings, queens, heroes, and tyrants who died long ago.
On the roads and rivers of the Realms travel minstrels and peddlers, merchants and guards, soldiers and sailors. Steel-hearted adventurers from backcountry farmsteads and sleepy villages follow tales of strange, glorious, faraway places. Good maps and clear trails can take even an inexperienced youth with dreams of glory far across the world, but these paths are never safe. Fell magic and deadly monsters are the perils one faces when traveling in the Realms. Even farms and freeholds within a day’s walk of a city can fall prey to monsters, and no place is safe from the sudden wrath of a dragon.
Map of the Sword Coast
The map below shows a region of the Forgotten Realms called the Sword Coast. This is a place of adventure, where daring souls delve into ancient strongholds and explore the ruins of long-lost kingdoms. Amid a lawless wilderness of jagged, snow-capped peaks, alpine forests, bitter winds, and roaming monsters, the coast holds such great bastions of civilization as the city of Neverwinter, in the shadow of the fuming volcano known as Mount Hotenow.
Neverwinter
This city was badly damaged when Mount Hotenow erupted some fifty years ago. Now, the City of Skilled Hands works to rebuild under the watchful eye of its Lord Protector, Dagult Neverember, who rules in the absence of an heir to Neverwinter’s crown. At present, no legitimate heirs to the old Alagondar royal line are known to exist, and many believe that the line is ended. Lord Neverember, taking no chances, quietly pays off or disposes of anyone claiming a connection to the rulers of old.
High Road
This highway hugs the coast, connecting Neverwinter to the coastal cities of Luskan to the north and Waterdeep to the south. For years, the stretch of road south of Neverwinter fell into disuse because of frequent monster attacks. Of late, efforts have been made to keep the road safe, with light patrols of guards on horseback moving between Neverwinter and Leilon.
Triboar Trail
This path south of Neverwinter Wood is the safest route between Neverwinter and the town of Triboar, located in the Dessarin Valley to the east (off the map). The trail is not patrolled, and monster attacks are commonplace.
Sword Mountains
These steep, craggy, snow-capped mountains are home to scattered tribes of orcs as well as other monsters. Icespire Peak is the tallest among them. Their foothills are strewn with the ruins of bygone kingdoms, and more than a few half-forgotten dungeons and tombs.
Kryptgarden Forest
This ancient forest tucked behind the Sword Mountains contains the ruins of bygone dwarven civilizations.
Mere of Dead Men
Travelers on the High Road, which skirts the mere to the east, must resist being lured into this cold and desolate swamp by bobbing will-o’-wisps. Countless adventurers have perished in the mere, drawn by tales of ruined castles half-sunk in the mire.
Welcome to Phandalin
The frontier town of Phandalin is built on the ruins of a much older settlement. Hundreds of years ago, the old Phandalin was a thriving human town whose people were firmly allied with neighboring dwarves and gnomes. Then an orc horde swept through the area and laid waste to the settlement, and Phandalin was abandoned for centuries.
In the last three or four years, settlers from the cities of Neverwinter and Waterdeep have begun the hard work of reclaiming the ruins of Phandalin. The new settlement is home now to farmers, woodcutters, fur traders, and prospectors drawn by stories of gold and platinum in the foothills of the Sword Mountains. The arrival of a white dragon threatens to destroy all that they’ve worked to rebuild.
Map of Phandalin
Stonehill Inn
This modest, two-story roadhouse has six rooms for rent on the upper floor. A bed for the night costs 5 sp, while a meal costs 1 sp. The proprietor is a short, friendly male human named Toblen Stonehill. Toblen is a native of the town of Triboar to the east. He came to Phandalin to prospect, but soon realized that he knew a lot more about running an inn than he did about mining.
Barthen’s Provisions
The shelves of this general store stock most ordinary goods and supplies, including backpacks, bedrolls, rope, and rations. Barthen’s doesn’t stock weapons or armor, but characters can purchase other adventuring gear here, with the exception of items that cost more than 25 gp. The proprietor, Elmar Barthen, is a lean and balding human man of fifty years. He employs a couple of young clerks (Ander and Thistle) who help load and unload wagons.
Lionshield Coster
This building is owned by the Lionshields, a merchant company based in the city of Yartar over a hundred miles to the east. The company ships finished goods to Phandalin and other small settlements throughout the region.
The master of the Phandalin post is a sharp-tongued human woman of thirty-five named Linene Graywind. Linene keeps a supply of armor and weapons, all of which are for sale to interested buyers.
Phandalin Miner’s Exchange
Miners come here to have their valuable finds weighed, measured, and paid out. The exchange also serves as an unofficial records office, registering claims to various streams and excavations around the area. Enough wealth is hidden in the nearby streams and valleys to support a good number of independent prospectors.
The exchange is a great place to meet people who spend a lot of time out and about in the countryside surrounding Phandalin. The guildmaster is a calculating human woman named Halia Thornton.
Shrine of Luck
Phandalin’s only temple is a shrine made of stones taken from the nearby ruins. It is dedicated to Tymora (goddess of luck and good fortune) and is normally in the care of a zealous elf acolyte named Sister Garaele.
Townmaster’s Hall
The townmaster’s hall has sturdy stone walls, a pitched wooden roof, and a bell tower at the back. The job board next to the front door features a sparse number of notices, all written in Common and in the same hand. All the notices on the job board are written by Harbin Wester, Phandalin’s duly appointed townmaster. Harbin is a pompous, middle-aged banker who lives in a house east of the Townmaster’s Hall.
Dragon of Icespire Peak - Campaign 2
The adventure begins...
Nestled in the rocky foothills of the snow-capped Sword Mountains is the mining town of Phandalin, which consists of forty or fifty simple log buildings. Crumbling stone ruins surround the newer houses and shops, showing how this must have been a much larger town in centuries past.
Phandalin’s residents are quiet, hard-working folk who came from distant cities to eke out a life amid the harsh wilderness. They are farmers, stonecutters, blacksmiths, traders, prospectors, and children. The town has no walls and no garrison, but most of the adults keep weapons within easy reach in case the need for arms should arise.
Visitors are welcome here, particularly if they have coin to spend or news to share. The Stonehill Inn at the center of town offers modest lodging and meals. A couple of doors down from the inn, posted outside the Townmaster’s Hall, is a job board for adventurers.
just an unstable unicorn.
Lilly looked from the window at the people walking about the street, sighed and tapped on the table few beats of "Muddy Road". It was her second day in Phandalin and she was ready to move on - somewhere, anywhere, really.
First day red haired halfling spent walking around the overgrown village curious about so called "frontier town". (Of course, she did it after she talked to Toblen Stonehill. They did not know each other back in Tribor, but "Fox and Sunflower" was a well known inn (especially among those understanding good food) and the title of "fellow countryman" is a good enough icebreaker to begin an acquaintanceship. Lilly was young, curious and well enough mannered to honestly admire what he had accomplished with Stonehill Inn in such a short time, so they get alone fine). Phandalin was interesting, sure, with new buildings and old ruins. The enthusiasm (and stubbornness) of the people here was close to her own heart - not many of her family could brag about traveling even that far, but look at her! Yes, Lilly liked it here well enough. However, now she wanted to move further and yet she could neither decide where to nor saw the company to join. She was not crazy to walk the Tribor Trail or even High Road alone, even if bandits would not care about lonely halfling, monsters might.
She sighed again and looked around checking the visitors of the Inn, as if expecting new faces (someone could slip in while she was looking outside? One can always hope.)
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Onu absentmindedly adjusts his carefully tailored jacket, tugging the hem to ensure it lays correctly over his lithe frame. Picking a bit of lint off his lapel, a quick tug on his bowtie, a thumb through the waistband of his pants to check that his shirt wasn't bunched anywhere.
Effortless style took quite a bit of effort.
Satisfied that he was ready, he stepped out of the shadows of the alleyway and began striding toward the front door of the Stonehill Inn. KD was somewhere nearby, but this part of the job was generally best done alone. This was the part where he needed to convince these country bumpkins to trust him. Or at least, that's how this normally went.
Today, well today was going to be different. It needed to be different. The last job had nearly fallen apart. It had fallen apart if Onu was being honest with himself and he had nearly gotten pinched, or killed or worse - embarrassed. KD had come through with one of her ingenious inventions, giving him just the edge he needed to slip loose and disappear into the forest when those Marshalls had shown up.
Maybe it was time to try something new. A new hussle to keep him fed and KD supplied.
Striding into the small Inn, the half-elf paused for a moment to let the light from the street frame him dramatically for those sitting in the darkened tavern, his bowler crowning his slender height, the cap of the polished walking stick in his hand catching the light for a moment. He knew the effect he was creating, a bit of drama to draw their eye while the light blinded everyone for a second or two. That second or two is where Onu lived. That barest hint of an advantage over his opponent, the pause as they tried to catch up that let him drive the cadence of the encounter. Let him control the conversation, lead the dance or get the first strike in before they even knew there was a fight brewing.
A deep breath through the nose, the scent of fire and ale, of a closed space but a clean one, the hint of bodies washed frequently but not daily, the lingered aroma of a stew of some sort. Stepping across the threshold, he made his way swiftly towards a table with a commanding view of the room and chose the chair that faced away from the door and the common area. An old trick, one designed to draw them in and make them come to him - letting them think they were initiating the encounter.
An older but well built and healthy looking man walks into the Stonehill Inn. He has a well kept white beard that is braided in a few places and an impressive mustache to match. He wears mundane traveling clothes and atop his head is a well worn cap. He carries a large backpack with two wooden quarterstaffs strapped to its side.
Walking up to the counter he asks in a friendly and polite tone "excuse me there young man, might I trouble you for a moment?" "I'm looking for Daran Edermath, owner of an orchard 'round these parts I'm told." "Miserable old elf, if I'm to be honest." The white haired man chuckles a little and winks. "Happy to buy something cold to wet my whistle in exchange for the trouble."
(like this, but minus the skulls, and with just a mundane quarterstaff for now)
A hooded figure. Seated in the corner of a tavern. Partially hidden. Making an impression. Mystery. Draw them in like moths to flame. Onu always said. Distract them with a striking impression. Usually it was him doing all of this, but this time, it was her turn.
A new hustle to keep her supplied and Onu fed. It was time to try something new.
She was a quick study. Always had been. Reading a room was like reading an inventory list. Put things together, get a mechanical arcane wonder. Put people together, get them to do what you want so you can get coin to buy the things to put together to make more arcane wonders. She watched the villagers and travelers amiably share the space. Drink together. Unsuspecting. Perhaps that red-haired halfling. The figure recalled seeing her around twice before. She was checking out the room as well. Surely she'd see the mysterious hooded figure and approach. But no, she was not interested. Like so many others. The mysterious hooded figure huffed a frustrated sigh.
Then the door opened and there in the doorway... Onu?!? Making an entrance. Oh my, he's going to command attention. Everyone was looking at him, he had the timing down perfectly at this point. It's true, he's better at this, might as well scrap the plan and roll with it. He'll see the mysterious hooded figure and approach and they'll play it that way. That's fine. She could improvise just as well as he could. She waited for him to approach.
He then darted forward and sat at a table facing away from everyone. Hmmm. A bold move. Not approaching the mysterious hooded figure, nor even reclaiming the part of the Mysterious Hooded Figure. He wasn't hooded, he was a seated figure, but only the back of a head, but one had to admit, he was mysterious. Was he playing at not seeing her? He hadn't really missed her, had he? She began to rise but then--
Another man, long in years perhaps by the shade of his beard, and carrying two long sticks, came in soon after, and the mysterious hooded figure sat back down again. A mark? Or a co-conspirator? She listened to the bit about the orchard owner and him ordering a drink. Not very promising, fruit. But could be useful. She'd keep an ear open.
She stands up and, immediately, realizes why no one has noticed her in the corner... her seat completely obscured by a set of shelves holding glasses and a pillar.
Head hanging even lower, she scuffs her feet to the bar, plops down next to the red-haired halfing woman, orders a drink (this explains the lousy table service!), and asks the old man, "what miserable elf has you chasing fruit?" without a hint of context or introduction.
"Oh, well hello" says the old man cheerfully. "If you'd met him, you'd know the one!" He chuckles. "No, no, just looking for a friend, that's all. Oh, and perhaps a room?" The human man looks back to Toblen for a moment regarding availability of a room.
The trek from Neverwinter to Phandalin had gone relatively well in Demetrios' eyes. With the willingness of a merchant, the paladin was able to secure a safer way of travel to the small town, preferring to have the company than to make the trip alone. Prior to parting ways with the older merchant man, he offers a hand in setting up his stand, a way to further show his gratitude. In return, the man would point him in the direction of the Townmaster's hall, but also shows him where the Stonehill Inn was as well, just a block or so down.
"I'm bettin' yer eager to get yer hands on a notice, butcha best get some rest. Sleepin' on the road ain't nothin' compared to sleepin' on a bed!" The merchant says insistently, trying to give a hardy push to the metal man in the inn's direction.
Demetrios chuckles lightly at the attempts, though eventually gives in. "I will, I will." He assures, checking to make sure he had everything he needed before heading off. "Be safe, Wilfred."
"You too, Demi!"
The paladin gives a final smile and respectful nod in Wilfred's direction before turning back making his way to the inn, taking a quick look around the area as he did so. This place was certainly smaller than Neverwinter. More cozy, in his eyes. Though he just hoped he could do what he had sought out to do here in the first place. After a rest, of course, much to Wilfred's insistence.
Cognac hue's scanned over the inn once he made his way inside, mainly to get an idea of how the people here were had there been anyone milling about. His eyes are immediately drawn to a head of curly red hair and a hooded figure next to them, having struck up a conversation to the older gentleman now in front of him. Had any look been cast his way, he merely returns them with a nod and a proper smile.
The paladin had been heavily armored, and it didn't take much to tell he had taken very good care of it with the way it had been polished. Silvery white steel would shine in the light of the inn, followed along with gold and black accents, and in the middle of his breastplate had been the emblem of Torm. In one of his arms he had carried his helmet that went along with the ensemble, with a plume of fine red feathers atop it. He had a handsome face, clean shaven and chiseled, with dark brown hair slicked back.
At the mention of a room, he speaks up and pipes in, "A room for me as well, if you don't mind."
I'm bad at descriptions so here his reference image haha
Armor isn't so exaggerated and also decided to forgo the facial scar!
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Aww... It begun so promisingly! Big folk was practically pouring into the inn. First that a touch theatrical fellow (half-elf, they can't help it), then the huge old guy (he immediately become her best hope), then ... Oooh... The paladin got not just the glance but an open stare of two shiny green eyes (Lilly remembered to close her mouth). It's not like she saw a knight for the fist time in her life, but shiny is shiny and little halfling would not deny she had a magpie side. She smiled and was ready to wave even, but realised in time she is not in her Inn. Toblen was a good fellow but unlikely would allow to bother guests, so she just nodded in response.
Everything was downhill from here: half-elf seemed to be disinterested in the crowd, the old man came to visit a friend and the knight ordered a room. One thing was clear - no one is going anywhere from town today. Lilly sighed. Well, there is always tomorrow.
Did not mean, though, the day was lost - for example, it seemed she could learn more about the town (she was not sure what for, but why not). No, Lilly was not eavesdropping! But the conversation was happening right here, near her. The hooded woman did not seem to bother with empty pleasantries (an experienced traveler, no doubts) and conversation promised to become interesting - in crossroads inns they always are, the rule might work here as well. Lilly pretended to be interested in something behind the window and opened her ears.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
When Demetrios in his shining armor enters, the old man gives him a quick glance then takes one step to his side to give the new fellow room at the bar. The armor and Torm's emblem were more than familiar, but that didn't necessarily mean that he was a member of the Order.
(Wondering if the old man would have an idea if Demetrios is a member of the Order of the Gauntlet, such as via rank insignia on him, or the lack there of, or other smaller details one veteran might know when looking at another.)
KD grunts negatively. "Doubt it," she replies to the first question. "Sounds like an odd friend. This bloke over here might be odder. Who stands in doors posing for a portrait?" Once she has her drink in hand, she stands up, nods to the older man in an awkward apology-cum-goodbye and turns to Onu's table, her cloak spinning gently and the hood falling partially away. She's carrying this rather dense-looking bag that seems it could burst at any moment.
Her free hand goes to her mouth and she mutters briefly.
Onu:
Over message: "Can't believe you didn't see me. Actually I can. I'm bad at this. I'll play second fiddle this time. Again. Your entrance: 7/10. Coming to you, unless you want to run this alone."
She begins to wander past tables in the general direction of the table Onu settled at.
Perception 8 'of course I saw you, and yes come join me. let's see what we can knock loose'. The half-elf lied fluently to his comrade
He knew KD was going to meet him here, but had somehow missed her tucked into the corner when we came in. That was distressing. What else had he missed? Keeping his seat at the table, Onu signaled to the barkeep for a drink, using the man's approach and conversation as an excuse to turn and take better stock of the newcomers.
Gleaming armor. White hair. Mound of curls. Now, now. This was promising.
Seeing KD make her move, Onu uses the moment to it's full advantage. Casting his voice to carry and adding the warmth and depth that always helps his approach, he speaks to the three strangers at the bar 'You all look full of stories, stories from the road and from lives well lived. Allow me to trade you your tales for a taste of this good mans ale? Join me, please!'
Noticing the older gentleman's side step to give him more room, Demetrios dips his head slightly as he moves a bit forward, his smile remaining. "Thank you, sir."
(Not sure if this was a DM thing or not, haha, but looking at him currently, you see no indication that Demetrios is apart of the Order.)
The paladin's attention is then drawn back to the hooded figure when they speak, then watches them head off to where a half-elf had been sitting. He cocks his head to the side when he notices the bag, but doesn't question on it and leaves them be for now, casting his gaze elsewhere.
Up until he hears the voice of the half-elf speaking to him and the other two nearby. He glances over to the other two before his eyes finally end up on the man who spoke, "Ah, well, I'm not sure if I have many entertaining stories to share, but... I supposed a drink wouldn't hurt." So far everyone looks to be kind here... That's a relief.
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
"Oh, no no, thank you. I have a friend to find, and these old bones need a rest once I soak them in some good ale." The old man smiles at Onu and gives him a nod of appreciation. While waiting for the bartender to bring an ale and give him and information on where to find Daran he turns back to the heavily armored fellow. "Greetings soldier, what brings you to these parts?"
The promising conversation died out but only to be replaced by even better one. Now we are talking! (Literally. Figuratively too) Quite flattered to be included into the circle of "experienced travelers full of stories" (did not she tell to Lavinia, that the suit is exactly as the one she saw on an adventuring lady? And that simpleton dared not to believe! Who is laughing now, huh?) Lilly nodded somewhat importantly and noted while moving to the half-elv's table: "The hot apple cider here is not bad either". (It was of the simplest variety, but right now it was not about the drink) Lilly climber onto her chair and looked the table over. Yep, exactly as those loud traveling companies that she saw so many times (and close enough to the stories too). As of stories - oh, she heard tons of those! Saw quite many unfolding too. A perk of inn-worker. She pushed away a curl of hair from her eyes and smiled happily "I am Lilly. A traveler, just like you said. So, which stories do you like?"
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
KD paused, processing, before continuing on to the table, sinking down into a chair.
As the others approach the table, moths to flame, she looks up, and the group can see a brown face, alert hazel eyes, and short but slightly unkempt dreadlocks under the hood. A wry mouth quirks into a self-aware grin.
"I find I learn something even from boring stories. Sometimes it's what's not said more than what's said," she says. "Lilly? You can call me KD."
"Oh, please call me Demetrios," The paladin advised, deciding to wait beside the old man while he waited for his drink. "And I'm here just to lend a hand where I can. I planned on heading to the townhall to see what I could do shortly after I arrived, however I was told I ought to rest prior to doing so." He chuckles lightly at the thought of old man Wilfred trying to push him over to the inn.
"Though are you certain you wouldn't like to sit and have a chat with the others?" He gestures over to the table where the red-haired halfling, the half-elf, and the hooded figure sat. "An interesting group of individuals they seem... and perhaps afterwards I could aid in finding your friend?"
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Melvin had hoped to find some clue to the secrets of the Kryptgarden Keeps, but the people here in Phandalin seemed to know very little about the lands they trod on, much to his dismay. With his investigation at a dead end for now, he dedcides to go for a drink at the Stonehill tavern, wash down the dust and perhaps inspire new ideas.
As he enters the tavern, he sees an assortment of interesting individuals at the bar, engaged in storytelling of sorts. Careful now, don't get too excited... you know what happens when we lose control. They get afraid and we have to run again.
Curious, but also careful, Melvin takes a seat just within earshot and orders an ale.
To all those inspecting the new arrival, you see a an average looking older traveller with a matted, greying, auburn mane, thick grimy stubble with mottled light-brown skin and watery green eyes sit down. There's nothing remarkable about this man, apart rom the fact that he seems almost too unremarkable, every detail adding to the effect of averageness to the point that he stands out again. All the more so, when upon second inspection, you notice the tidy and well-looked after book he carries within his pack, peeking out just a little.
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
'An old friend ay? That must mean old stories. And old stories are the best kind to be sure. But I don't mean to delay you or waylay you. Was simply hoping for a bit of company in this friendly place.' Turning his attention, and his dazzling smile to the redheaded halfling, Onu continues 'Barkeep, a cider for the lady here, and ales all around for all my new friends. And Lilly, was it? Tell us what brings you in to this fine establishment this evening?'
Onu pointedly ignored KD, maybe overselling the fact that they didn't know each other, but at this stage he found most people were so caught up in themselves they hardly noticed anyone else.
Lilly's cheeks flushed with delight as she found herself a center of attention even if for a while. (Onu was absolutely right at least on her account - at the moment the young girl would hardly notice the second sundering, yet alone someone's exchange of secret signs). She accepted her hot cider (forgiving it all the missing spices - where would Toblen get them here anyway), and was about to prove KD wrong with her statement about the boring stories (heard about two competing witchers? Nothing boring about that!) when Onu asked her personal story. Lilly sat very straight, looking at least an inch taller, made a very serious face expression (yes, she practiced - one of her stature does not look serious without ... well, serious practice) and said in a tone that was supposed to sound both mysterious and casual in the same time. "Right of passage". She made a dramatic pause and elaborated. "This is a family tradition. You see, the one gifted with magic - runs in my family, so you know - have to prove one's worth of it, show ability to handle the responsibilities that come with such a gift". The girl could not hold that serious tone for long and finished with another sunny smile. "And I am the gifted one. So, I am traveling." "Would like to travel further, though," added she in a second.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
The cloaked figure notices the slightly dissatisfied expression on Lilly’s face after her sip of cider. KD sniffs, leans over, reaches out with a grubby finger, and touches the handle of Lilly’s mug of cider. She mutters a few words and it’s almost like a faint breeze ruffles the shabby cloak, and then she returns to her former slump.
Then an aroma fills the nostrils of the people around the table. Cinnamon, of course. Cloves, absolutely. Is that a hint of cardamom? And ginger, definitely some ginger. It completes the gestalt of what mulled cider should be, based on what she understood might be missing.
She raises her hand and mutters a change in her order to hit cider. She gives no explanation.