In the city of Neverwinter, you have accepted a job escorting a wagonload of provisions to the town of Phandalin, a journey of two to three days southeast. The payment is 10 gold pieces per person upon delivery of the goods at Barthen's Provisions, a trading post in Phandalin. Your patron is Gundren Rockseeker, a stocky dwarven merchant with a friendly demeanor. You spent the previous evening at the Driftwood Tavern, at a table with Gundren and his escort, a stoic human warrior named Sildar Hallwinter.
Gundren is more than excited for this trip. He deftly dodged any questions about the purpose behind the expedition; the most you could get out of him after a few mugs of ale was that he and his brothers, Tharden and Nundro, had found "something big". Sildar has his own reasons for escorting the friendly dwarf. As a member of the Lord's Alliance, he has an interest in ensuring that this up and coming mining town is safe from the bandits and outlaws known to lurk in the area. Clad in fine chain mail, with a longsword emblazoned with the emblem of Neverwinter in its hilt, you feel sorry for any bandits that cross his path.
It is now the following morning, and to your surprise, when you meet Gundren and Sildar at the southeastern gate of Neverwinter, Gundren informs you that he needs to arrive early to "take care of business". He and Sildar ride ahead of you on horseback, and the five of you begin your journey south, following the High Road.
The wagon is pulled by two well-trained oxen; if no one is holding the reins, the oxen stop where they are. The wagon is packed full of an assortment of mining supplies and food. This includes a dozen sacks of flour, several casks of salted pork, two kegs of strong ale, around a dozen shovels, picks, and crowbars each, and five lanterns with a small barrel of oil.
OOC: Take the next day or two to freely roleplay. It will take a few days for the wagon to arrive in Phandalin, so take the time for your characters to get to know each other. Introduce your characters, chat about your backstories (a little secrecy is alright, but try to avoid the "mysterious stranger" routine), how you heard about the job from Gundren or Sildar, and speculate on what this "something big" might be.
Also, determine your marching order. Who is in front navigating? Who is bringing up the rear, keeping watch for potential trouble? The rest can be riding on the wagon, walking alongside, scouting ahead, or anything else that makes sense. One or two characters need to be driving the wagon.
Our party: Krilantis: Bob, Human Rogue, Male Taonos: Argos Stonebough, Hill Dwarf Ranger, Male Simmon: Cinis Girasol, Tiefling Sorcerer, Male Smullzilla: Nemean Goldenmane, Tabaxi Fighter, Male Nemes1s: Tarok Hightower, Half-Orc Fighter, Male
Bob is standing around looking at his things, he makes sure that he has all his food in his bag. He checks his pouches weapons. He checks his boots for any holes, noting one starting to form on the side of his right boot. Mumbling to what seems no one but everyone at the same time "Hmm, the things I am going to buy when I am done with this.I need a new bag, some new boots for sure, dont think these are going to last much longer." Bob then starts to check out the cart for anything that he thinks might break or be of trouble later down the road.
Bob dust off his leathers, his tunic seems to be a little stained almost as if Bob is not the cleanest of eaters around. "Well everything seems to be good, if no one Minds I would like to take front, I like looking out for stuff, some times I see what others cant, even when I dont try." Bob smiles and heads to the front without waiting for anyone to say anything.
Cinis maintained his pace at the rear of the wagon, watching the other people who were hired to escort the wagon to Phandalin.
They're an athletic bunch, I'll give them that. But have any of them even seen a fight, let alone been in one? This might be tougher than I thought, especially without another veteran like Sildar around.
Cinis continued this line of thought for a while, silently considering potential dangers they could run into on the road and trying to follow along with the conversations the others were having ahead of him.
At least none of them have accused me of wanting to steal the merchandise. Maybe I'll try talking to one of them. Find out where they came from or what they plan on doing once we arrive, maybe? Eh... I'll give it a day.
Cinis marched along behind the group, his thoughts on the youths in front of him and his eyes on the barren landscape that surrounded them.
They will be safe. Not like last time. They will be safe.
"Well, greetings to you all. We never really had the chance to introduce ourselves, Gundren sure does know how to talk up an entire evening. Anyways, my name is Argos and I come from the Dessarin Valley. I'm nothing special, just a wanderer who wants to help people. I've been wondering about what exactly this 'something big' is that Gundren and his brothers found. It has to be something important, otherwise he wouldn't keep it secret."
OOC: As we travel along, Argos introduces himself. He speaks with a deep, loud, dwarven voice. Argos is sitting on the front seat of the cart, steering the oxen. While driving, he keeps a keen eye out for any potential troubles ahead or alongside the road. He also takes note of the terrain, seeming to almost study its features as we travel along the road.
Tarok, a rather tall and burly Half-Orc with pale-gray skin and long, dark hair walks alongside the wagon. His equipment seems simple, but well maintained, and he walks in a very upright and military manner. He wears a chainmail coat over leather traveling cloths, with tall, brown boots. Strapped to his back are a large scabbard and a holster, holding a very large sword, and a rather oversized warhammer respectively. They look like they'd weigh quite a bit, but Tarok doesn't seem to notice. He has has a broad, genial smile and greets the other with enthusiasm in his coarse, raucous voice.
"And well met, master Dwarf! You're quite right, your kinsman didn't leave us much chance to get to know each other in the tavern. But I suspect the journey with this ox-cart will soon put a fix to that." he says looking up, and smiling warmly to the wagon's driver. "I am Tarok, son of an adventurer from Neverwinter and former mercenary." he announces to the group at large, throwing out his chest proudly.
"As to your question..." he adds, looking back at Argos. "At first I thought perhaps Gundren had found a vein of Mithril or Gold in the mountains somewhere. That seems as often as not when a Dwarf hires guards to protect their shipments. But Sildar seems a rather official-looking type. I'm not so sure he'd be involved if it wasn't a bit more interesting or dangerous than mining. Maybe he found an artifact or a magic book or something. Maybe a pair of Lord Neverember's trousers. Hah!" he trails off, guffawing to himself.
Tarok occasionally circles behind the wagon, checking the rear for any disturbances or signs of danger, and changes which side he is waling on every few minutes. Although he is loud and quite cheerful, he is still a trained soldier, and doesn't mistake that they may have to fight for their lives on this journey. His eyes comb the foothills and tree-lines as they walk.
At least that Tarok has some training. Either that or he grew up in a warring tribe, which would explain the bravado.
Cinis held his position at the rear of the group and exchanged nods with the half-orc whenever he made his way back there, but nothing more. The affable half-orc seemed like a good enough sort, if maybe a little cocky, but conversation wasn't Cinis' forte; so the nod was the extent of their exchanges.
It looks like the half-orc and dwarf are planning on venturing into the mines once we get there. Hopefully the others aren't so foolish. Spell-books, artifacts, and minerals don't worry me... what could be guarding them does.
Cinis shook his head at the thought but continued the trek, scanning the distance for any trouble.
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Pit of Vipers: Watl Wiggins - Halfling Rogue(10) League of Improbable Adventurers: Alan Quatermain - Human Fighter(3)
Nemean Goldenmane was an imposing figure for a Tabaxi, he was taller than average for his kind and had a distinct lion-like mane that was his namesake. His mane and coat had a bright golden sheen to it which Nemean meticulously maintained through constant grooming. He had a slender build but what he lacked in strength he made up for with agility. On his hips he wears two scimitars with some foreign looking embroidering in gold lettering on the leather sheath. Aside from this, he is dressed in common leather armor and the clothes of a farm hand. Though their style is slightly exotic in these parts, they are clearly the clothes of a commoner.
He accompanies Argos on the wagon, growing up on a farm, he's use to being around animals and offers to help with the oxen should Argos grow weary. However, Argos seemed eager to guide the oxen along path and Nemean is content to lounge next to him and keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary. He had longbow drawn but kept it lazily draped on his lap as he struck up conversation with Argos and the others.
"Sildar is a fine man, I've known him for several years and he's straight as an arrow, whatever this expedition is I'm sure its on the up and up, not like a man of the Lord's Alliance to get mixed up with nefarious schemes, and Gundren seems like decent enough folk to me." He picked an apple out of his backpack and took a bite as he reflected on the brief description Sildar had given him of their assignment, he'd mostly stopped listening after hearing it paid 10gp but he now recalled a few other details.
"One thing that we do need to keep in mind is that Sildar wouldn't have involved someone like me unless he thought we might get into a scrap, I'm not exactly up on all the latest Dwarven mining techniques, but he knows I'm quick with a blade. Never been down to Phandalin before, but from what I hear its a real frontier town, not much in the way of infrastructure and defense just yet. He also mentioned that the Alliance had one of their own go missing around these parts, so we'll want to keep our wits about us."
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Vercinius Thrax: Lizardfolk Cleric - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
L’Ouverture Zinn: Kobold Sorcerer - Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage
Titus Vorenus: Dragonborn Paladin - Waterdeep: Dragon Heist
Nemean Goldenmane: Tabaxi Fighter - Lost Mine of Phandelver (Retired)
What the Tabaxi had said about expecting danger and someone going missing found its way to Cinis' ears and he frowned.
No one said anything about a missing Lord's Alliance soldier... That kid says he's quick with a blade, but he doesn't have the look of a soldier. Then again, it's not as if I look like a soldier, myself.
After overhearing the words of the Tabaxi, Cinis was suddenly paying closer attention to every leaf blowing in the wind and every rock big enough to hide behind.
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Pit of Vipers: Watl Wiggins - Halfling Rogue(10) League of Improbable Adventurers: Alan Quatermain - Human Fighter(3)
Tarok forms a routine of his patrol around the wagon as they travel. He nods politely to the Tiefling and Tabaxi as he passes them on his route. Listening to their conversations and agreeing where suitable.
His eyes narrow and he grows more uneasy at the mention of the missing man from the Lord’s Alliance. Otherwise, he seems to deviate little from his guard.
Tarok makes his way toward the front of the wagon and brings himself parallel with the oxen.
"Now seems as good of a time as any to mention that the mercenary company I was a part of is from Phandalin. The Redbrands they're called." he says. "And we didn't part on the best of terms. It was an honorable group to begin with, but the men lost their way when it was taken over by an unscrupulous wizard named Glasstaff. They've fallen to evil, and are little more than an organised group of bandits and thugs now." he continues. "I don't know if we'll run into them, but I thought you should all know up front. Don't take anyone who knows me in Phandalin to be my friend, for there are few in that company who still have their honor. If a Lord's Alliance official has gone missing in the area, the Redbrands may have been involved." he finishes, looking somewhat downcast and ashamed.
"There is nothing I'd like more than to give what is owed to Glasstaff and his thugs, but I won't compromise our quest for my own revenge. You're my honored comrades, and I won't put you in jeopardy for any selfish reasons, however noble they might be." he says, bringing back some of his earlier cheer and jaunty demeanor.
"Hold on. You were part of a mercenary group out of Phandalin? You said you left on bad terms - we aren't a target because of you, now, are we?" He nearly shouted.
He was livid. This was supposed to be a routine escort. It's turning into a disaster.
"Alright. Potential mercenaries worth a grudge to settle. Thru could be waiting on the road, especially if they know supplies are being delivered. Everybody look sharp. Anyone have any skill with ranged weapons or magic?" Cinis called out, making his way back to the rear of the group, though not quite so far behind the wagon as before.
I dearly hope my instincts are wrong and I look like a fool, worrying over nothing. Please let me be a fool just this once .
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Pit of Vipers: Watl Wiggins - Halfling Rogue(10) League of Improbable Adventurers: Alan Quatermain - Human Fighter(3)
Bob still seems to be mumbling to him self Holds up his hand cross bow."I am pretty good with this. As for skills in the arts, I do not yet have any. But I will keep more of a watch out then normal." Bob turns his focus back to the front and scanning the area for, well anything.
Oh fun, this day is turning out to be great, the weather is nice and the birds are singing away for all the hear.
"Whoa, hold on there." Tarok stammered. "I don't have enemies lying in wait for me. I parted ways with the Redbrands because I didn't agree with the kind of work they were doing. Glasstaff isn't to be trusted, but I wasn't chased or hunted out of the group." he continued, trying to calm the Tiefling down. "I only mean we should be on our guard in Phandalin, as not everyone there is a good natured farmer. Some are cruel bandits and we should be ready for them if it comes to that. There's no need to panic." he finished.
Tarok felt clumsy for making the others worry, and continued his route with his head bowed slightly.
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Roland Drask:Human Rogue - Lost Mine of Phandelver
OOC: Excellent work from everyone. This is going to be fun. I've given all characters Inspiration for the great start.
The watchful eyes of the party find the first day of travel to be rather uneventful, but full of conversation. Night creeps in as the group begins to get to know one another and you make camp. By your estimation, you're around halfway down the High Road between Neverwinter and where the Triboar Trail forks east toward Phandalin.
You set out again in the morning, feeling refreshed but warier than you did the morning you left Neverwinter.
OOC: Please subtract 1 day of rations from your characters. Giving some time for Nemean to answer Cinis's question and any more you'd like to learn about each other's backstories and abilities.
As we set out, Argos continues to drive the wagon, unless anyone else insists on driving. Argos chats it up with the friendly tabaxi fellow, Nemean: "So you're an acquaintance of Sildar's, eh? My father was friends with Gundren himself. I met him a few times as a kid, but never really got to know him before my family passed away. I never really spoke with Gundren after that incident. One day I got a letter from him, with an offer for a job and an opportunity to catch up with him. I figured it was time to get to know him again, and make a few gold pieces while doing it."
Argos continues to keep a watchful eye on the road, wary of what could be waiting for us.
“I met Sildar back in Neverwinter a little over two years ago...” the Tabaxi recalled fondly in his deep voice “He was one of the first friends I met after crossing the Trackless Sea, he explained to me how things worked here in Fearun. A good man, very... patient. Got me a few jobs doing contract work for the Alliance around Neverwinter after I showed him how we Tabaxi fight with the blade and bow!” His eyes lit up as he gestured to his scimitars, and his accent was more pronounced as he became excited.
”But I kept complaining to him... these were boring jobs, not worthy of a great warrior like Nemean Goldenmane, pride of the southern clans!” he said as he flicked his head back causing his mane to sway with a dramatic flourish. “I kept asking him for something BIG, I wanted more glory, more pay, and better stories! And now our friend Grundren has found something in Phandelver... and I for one cannot wait to find out what it is!”
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Vercinius Thrax: Lizardfolk Cleric - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
L’Ouverture Zinn: Kobold Sorcerer - Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage
Titus Vorenus: Dragonborn Paladin - Waterdeep: Dragon Heist
Nemean Goldenmane: Tabaxi Fighter - Lost Mine of Phandelver (Retired)
Tarok took up his rotating guard position and followed the oxen, watchful for any danger. He was keen to re-establish the professional and reliable attitude he had tried to project when he had first introduced himself. The unfortunate turn of the discussion to his past had left him slightly downhearten, but the fresh air and promise of adventure lifted his spirits in turn.
"What kind of welcome can I expect in Phandalin?" Tarok thought to himself. "Some of the Redbrands were men I called 'brother' once... but how far have the fallen in the years since I left? How far into Glasstaff's black cloak have they been drawn?" he brooded, as he marched along the right flank of the wagon. He gave Cinis and Bob a nod and a smile whenever he saw them, and beamed up at Argos and Nemean when he took up position near theirs at the reins.
Tarok knew the road well and had made the journey between Phandalin and Neverwinter many times in both directions. He tried to pass as many tips as he could along the way to Argos. These were mostly just to make conversation, as the High Road was a well used, and important trade route. All the same, he scanned the path ahead to try to spot any difficulty or danger that might befall them.
We're going to be attacked any minute, I just know it. All it will take is a load of archers to turn us into pincushions out here in these barren hills. That Tabaxi is just another kid, too. No military between the lot of these fools, just mercenary background. Taking this job will probably be the death of me. And everyone else. I sure hope it doesn't come to that. These kids, for all their bravado, deserve a better life than this.
Cinis continued his curmudgeonly attitude, grunting to Tarok when he passed.
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Pit of Vipers: Watl Wiggins - Halfling Rogue(10) League of Improbable Adventurers: Alan Quatermain - Human Fighter(3)
Another day of quiet travel sees you make camp by the crossing where the Triboar Trail meets the High Road. Aside from Cinis's cynicism, the expedition has settled into a comfortable routine of watchfulness.
OOC: Please subtract 1 day of rations from your characters.
You've now been on the Triboar Trail for about half a day. As you come around a bend, you spot two dead horses sprawled about fifty feet ahead of you, blocking the path. Each has several black-feathered arrows sticking out of it. The woods press close to the trail here, with a steep embankment and dense thickets on either side.
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See my profile for all my PbP threads!
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In the city of Neverwinter, you have accepted a job escorting a wagonload of provisions to the town of Phandalin, a journey of two to three days southeast. The payment is 10 gold pieces per person upon delivery of the goods at Barthen's Provisions, a trading post in Phandalin. Your patron is Gundren Rockseeker, a stocky dwarven merchant with a friendly demeanor. You spent the previous evening at the Driftwood Tavern, at a table with Gundren and his escort, a stoic human warrior named Sildar Hallwinter.
Gundren is more than excited for this trip. He deftly dodged any questions about the purpose behind the expedition; the most you could get out of him after a few mugs of ale was that he and his brothers, Tharden and Nundro, had found "something big". Sildar has his own reasons for escorting the friendly dwarf. As a member of the Lord's Alliance, he has an interest in ensuring that this up and coming mining town is safe from the bandits and outlaws known to lurk in the area. Clad in fine chain mail, with a longsword emblazoned with the emblem of Neverwinter in its hilt, you feel sorry for any bandits that cross his path.
It is now the following morning, and to your surprise, when you meet Gundren and Sildar at the southeastern gate of Neverwinter, Gundren informs you that he needs to arrive early to "take care of business". He and Sildar ride ahead of you on horseback, and the five of you begin your journey south, following the High Road.
The wagon is pulled by two well-trained oxen; if no one is holding the reins, the oxen stop where they are. The wagon is packed full of an assortment of mining supplies and food. This includes a dozen sacks of flour, several casks of salted pork, two kegs of strong ale, around a dozen shovels, picks, and crowbars each, and five lanterns with a small barrel of oil.
OOC: Take the next day or two to freely roleplay. It will take a few days for the wagon to arrive in Phandalin, so take the time for your characters to get to know each other. Introduce your characters, chat about your backstories (a little secrecy is alright, but try to avoid the "mysterious stranger" routine), how you heard about the job from Gundren or Sildar, and speculate on what this "something big" might be.
Also, determine your marching order. Who is in front navigating? Who is bringing up the rear, keeping watch for potential trouble? The rest can be riding on the wagon, walking alongside, scouting ahead, or anything else that makes sense. One or two characters need to be driving the wagon.
Our party:
Krilantis: Bob, Human Rogue, Male
Taonos: Argos Stonebough, Hill Dwarf Ranger, Male
Simmon: Cinis Girasol, Tiefling Sorcerer, Male
Smullzilla: Nemean Goldenmane, Tabaxi Fighter, Male
Nemes1s: Tarok Hightower, Half-Orc Fighter, Male
See my profile for all my PbP threads!
Bob is standing around looking at his things, he makes sure that he has all his food in his bag. He checks his pouches weapons. He checks his boots for any holes, noting one starting to form on the side of his right boot. Mumbling to what seems no one but everyone at the same time "Hmm, the things I am going to buy when I am done with this.I need a new bag, some new boots for sure, dont think these are going to last much longer." Bob then starts to check out the cart for anything that he thinks might break or be of trouble later down the road.
Bob dust off his leathers, his tunic seems to be a little stained almost as if Bob is not the cleanest of eaters around. "Well everything seems to be good, if no one Minds I would like to take front, I like looking out for stuff, some times I see what others cant, even when I dont try." Bob smiles and heads to the front without waiting for anyone to say anything.
Cinis maintained his pace at the rear of the wagon, watching the other people who were hired to escort the wagon to Phandalin.
They're an athletic bunch, I'll give them that. But have any of them even seen a fight, let alone been in one? This might be tougher than I thought, especially without another veteran like Sildar around.
Cinis continued this line of thought for a while, silently considering potential dangers they could run into on the road and trying to follow along with the conversations the others were having ahead of him.
At least none of them have accused me of wanting to steal the merchandise. Maybe I'll try talking to one of them. Find out where they came from or what they plan on doing once we arrive, maybe? Eh... I'll give it a day.
Cinis marched along behind the group, his thoughts on the youths in front of him and his eyes on the barren landscape that surrounded them.
They will be safe. Not like last time. They will be safe.
Pit of Vipers: Watl Wiggins - Halfling Rogue(10)
League of Improbable Adventurers: Alan Quatermain - Human Fighter(3)
"Well, greetings to you all. We never really had the chance to introduce ourselves, Gundren sure does know how to talk up an entire evening. Anyways, my name is Argos and I come from the Dessarin Valley. I'm nothing special, just a wanderer who wants to help people. I've been wondering about what exactly this 'something big' is that Gundren and his brothers found. It has to be something important, otherwise he wouldn't keep it secret."
OOC: As we travel along, Argos introduces himself. He speaks with a deep, loud, dwarven voice. Argos is sitting on the front seat of the cart, steering the oxen. While driving, he keeps a keen eye out for any potential troubles ahead or alongside the road. He also takes note of the terrain, seeming to almost study its features as we travel along the road.
A surprise, to be sure, but a welcome one.
Tarok, a rather tall and burly Half-Orc with pale-gray skin and long, dark hair walks alongside the wagon. His equipment seems simple, but well maintained, and he walks in a very upright and military manner. He wears a chainmail coat over leather traveling cloths, with tall, brown boots. Strapped to his back are a large scabbard and a holster, holding a very large sword, and a rather oversized warhammer respectively. They look like they'd weigh quite a bit, but Tarok doesn't seem to notice. He has has a broad, genial smile and greets the other with enthusiasm in his coarse, raucous voice.
"And well met, master Dwarf! You're quite right, your kinsman didn't leave us much chance to get to know each other in the tavern. But I suspect the journey with this ox-cart will soon put a fix to that." he says looking up, and smiling warmly to the wagon's driver. "I am Tarok, son of an adventurer from Neverwinter and former mercenary." he announces to the group at large, throwing out his chest proudly.
"As to your question..." he adds, looking back at Argos. "At first I thought perhaps Gundren had found a vein of Mithril or Gold in the mountains somewhere. That seems as often as not when a Dwarf hires guards to protect their shipments. But Sildar seems a rather official-looking type. I'm not so sure he'd be involved if it wasn't a bit more interesting or dangerous than mining. Maybe he found an artifact or a magic book or something. Maybe a pair of Lord Neverember's trousers. Hah!" he trails off, guffawing to himself.
Tarok occasionally circles behind the wagon, checking the rear for any disturbances or signs of danger, and changes which side he is waling on every few minutes. Although he is loud and quite cheerful, he is still a trained soldier, and doesn't mistake that they may have to fight for their lives on this journey. His eyes comb the foothills and tree-lines as they walk.
Roland Drask: Human Rogue - Lost Mine of Phandelver
At least that Tarok has some training. Either that or he grew up in a warring tribe, which would explain the bravado.
Cinis held his position at the rear of the group and exchanged nods with the half-orc whenever he made his way back there, but nothing more. The affable half-orc seemed like a good enough sort, if maybe a little cocky, but conversation wasn't Cinis' forte; so the nod was the extent of their exchanges.
It looks like the half-orc and dwarf are planning on venturing into the mines once we get there. Hopefully the others aren't so foolish. Spell-books, artifacts, and minerals don't worry me... what could be guarding them does.
Cinis shook his head at the thought but continued the trek, scanning the distance for any trouble.
Pit of Vipers: Watl Wiggins - Halfling Rogue(10)
League of Improbable Adventurers: Alan Quatermain - Human Fighter(3)
Nemean Goldenmane was an imposing figure for a Tabaxi, he was taller than average for his kind and had a distinct lion-like mane that was his namesake. His mane and coat had a bright golden sheen to it which Nemean meticulously maintained through constant grooming. He had a slender build but what he lacked in strength he made up for with agility. On his hips he wears two scimitars with some foreign looking embroidering in gold lettering on the leather sheath. Aside from this, he is dressed in common leather armor and the clothes of a farm hand. Though their style is slightly exotic in these parts, they are clearly the clothes of a commoner.
He accompanies Argos on the wagon, growing up on a farm, he's use to being around animals and offers to help with the oxen should Argos grow weary. However, Argos seemed eager to guide the oxen along path and Nemean is content to lounge next to him and keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary. He had longbow drawn but kept it lazily draped on his lap as he struck up conversation with Argos and the others.
"Sildar is a fine man, I've known him for several years and he's straight as an arrow, whatever this expedition is I'm sure its on the up and up, not like a man of the Lord's Alliance to get mixed up with nefarious schemes, and Gundren seems like decent enough folk to me." He picked an apple out of his backpack and took a bite as he reflected on the brief description Sildar had given him of their assignment, he'd mostly stopped listening after hearing it paid 10gp but he now recalled a few other details.
"One thing that we do need to keep in mind is that Sildar wouldn't have involved someone like me unless he thought we might get into a scrap, I'm not exactly up on all the latest Dwarven mining techniques, but he knows I'm quick with a blade. Never been down to Phandalin before, but from what I hear its a real frontier town, not much in the way of infrastructure and defense just yet. He also mentioned that the Alliance had one of their own go missing around these parts, so we'll want to keep our wits about us."
Vercinius Thrax: Lizardfolk Cleric - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
L’Ouverture Zinn: Kobold Sorcerer - Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage
Titus Vorenus: Dragonborn Paladin - Waterdeep: Dragon Heist
Nemean Goldenmane: Tabaxi Fighter - Lost Mine of Phandelver (Retired)
What the Tabaxi had said about expecting danger and someone going missing found its way to Cinis' ears and he frowned.
No one said anything about a missing Lord's Alliance soldier... That kid says he's quick with a blade, but he doesn't have the look of a soldier. Then again, it's not as if I look like a soldier, myself.
After overhearing the words of the Tabaxi, Cinis was suddenly paying closer attention to every leaf blowing in the wind and every rock big enough to hide behind.
Pit of Vipers: Watl Wiggins - Halfling Rogue(10)
League of Improbable Adventurers: Alan Quatermain - Human Fighter(3)
Tarok forms a routine of his patrol around the wagon as they travel. He nods politely to the Tiefling and Tabaxi as he passes them on his route. Listening to their conversations and agreeing where suitable.
His eyes narrow and he grows more uneasy at the mention of the missing man from the Lord’s Alliance. Otherwise, he seems to deviate little from his guard.
Roland Drask: Human Rogue - Lost Mine of Phandelver
During one of Tarok's passes, Cinis signals for him to take his place and moves alongside the wagon near Nemean.
"So how do you know Sildar? Did you serve together?" Cinis asked the Tabaxi.
He was uncomfortable making conversation but this seemed like a good chance to get a feel for the group's capabilities.
Pit of Vipers: Watl Wiggins - Halfling Rogue(10)
League of Improbable Adventurers: Alan Quatermain - Human Fighter(3)
Tarok makes his way toward the front of the wagon and brings himself parallel with the oxen.
"Now seems as good of a time as any to mention that the mercenary company I was a part of is from Phandalin. The Redbrands they're called." he says. "And we didn't part on the best of terms. It was an honorable group to begin with, but the men lost their way when it was taken over by an unscrupulous wizard named Glasstaff. They've fallen to evil, and are little more than an organised group of bandits and thugs now." he continues. "I don't know if we'll run into them, but I thought you should all know up front. Don't take anyone who knows me in Phandalin to be my friend, for there are few in that company who still have their honor. If a Lord's Alliance official has gone missing in the area, the Redbrands may have been involved." he finishes, looking somewhat downcast and ashamed.
"There is nothing I'd like more than to give what is owed to Glasstaff and his thugs, but I won't compromise our quest for my own revenge. You're my honored comrades, and I won't put you in jeopardy for any selfish reasons, however noble they might be." he says, bringing back some of his earlier cheer and jaunty demeanor.
Roland Drask: Human Rogue - Lost Mine of Phandelver
Cinis whirled on Tarok.
"Hold on. You were part of a mercenary group out of Phandalin? You said you left on bad terms - we aren't a target because of you, now, are we?" He nearly shouted.
He was livid. This was supposed to be a routine escort. It's turning into a disaster.
"Alright. Potential mercenaries worth a grudge to settle. Thru could be waiting on the road, especially if they know supplies are being delivered. Everybody look sharp. Anyone have any skill with ranged weapons or magic?" Cinis called out, making his way back to the rear of the group, though not quite so far behind the wagon as before.
I dearly hope my instincts are wrong and I look like a fool, worrying over nothing. Please let me be a fool just this once .
Pit of Vipers: Watl Wiggins - Halfling Rogue(10)
League of Improbable Adventurers: Alan Quatermain - Human Fighter(3)
Bob still seems to be mumbling to him self Holds up his hand cross bow."I am pretty good with this. As for skills in the arts, I do not yet have any. But I will keep more of a watch out then normal." Bob turns his focus back to the front and scanning the area for, well anything.
Oh fun, this day is turning out to be great, the weather is nice and the birds are singing away for all the hear.
"Whoa, hold on there." Tarok stammered. "I don't have enemies lying in wait for me. I parted ways with the Redbrands because I didn't agree with the kind of work they were doing. Glasstaff isn't to be trusted, but I wasn't chased or hunted out of the group." he continued, trying to calm the Tiefling down. "I only mean we should be on our guard in Phandalin, as not everyone there is a good natured farmer. Some are cruel bandits and we should be ready for them if it comes to that. There's no need to panic." he finished.
Tarok felt clumsy for making the others worry, and continued his route with his head bowed slightly.
Roland Drask: Human Rogue - Lost Mine of Phandelver
OOC: Excellent work from everyone. This is going to be fun. I've given all characters Inspiration for the great start.
The watchful eyes of the party find the first day of travel to be rather uneventful, but full of conversation. Night creeps in as the group begins to get to know one another and you make camp. By your estimation, you're around halfway down the High Road between Neverwinter and where the Triboar Trail forks east toward Phandalin.
You set out again in the morning, feeling refreshed but warier than you did the morning you left Neverwinter.
OOC: Please subtract 1 day of rations from your characters. Giving some time for Nemean to answer Cinis's question and any more you'd like to learn about each other's backstories and abilities.
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As we set out, Argos continues to drive the wagon, unless anyone else insists on driving. Argos chats it up with the friendly tabaxi fellow, Nemean: "So you're an acquaintance of Sildar's, eh? My father was friends with Gundren himself. I met him a few times as a kid, but never really got to know him before my family passed away. I never really spoke with Gundren after that incident. One day I got a letter from him, with an offer for a job and an opportunity to catch up with him. I figured it was time to get to know him again, and make a few gold pieces while doing it."
Argos continues to keep a watchful eye on the road, wary of what could be waiting for us.
A surprise, to be sure, but a welcome one.
“I met Sildar back in Neverwinter a little over two years ago...” the Tabaxi recalled fondly in his deep voice “He was one of the first friends I met after crossing the Trackless Sea, he explained to me how things worked here in Fearun. A good man, very... patient. Got me a few jobs doing contract work for the Alliance around Neverwinter after I showed him how we Tabaxi fight with the blade and bow!” His eyes lit up as he gestured to his scimitars, and his accent was more pronounced as he became excited.
”But I kept complaining to him... these were boring jobs, not worthy of a great warrior like Nemean Goldenmane, pride of the southern clans!” he said as he flicked his head back causing his mane to sway with a dramatic flourish. “I kept asking him for something BIG, I wanted more glory, more pay, and better stories! And now our friend Grundren has found something in Phandelver... and I for one cannot wait to find out what it is!”
Vercinius Thrax: Lizardfolk Cleric - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
L’Ouverture Zinn: Kobold Sorcerer - Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage
Titus Vorenus: Dragonborn Paladin - Waterdeep: Dragon Heist
Nemean Goldenmane: Tabaxi Fighter - Lost Mine of Phandelver (Retired)
Tarok took up his rotating guard position and followed the oxen, watchful for any danger. He was keen to re-establish the professional and reliable attitude he had tried to project when he had first introduced himself. The unfortunate turn of the discussion to his past had left him slightly downhearten, but the fresh air and promise of adventure lifted his spirits in turn.
"What kind of welcome can I expect in Phandalin?" Tarok thought to himself. "Some of the Redbrands were men I called 'brother' once... but how far have the fallen in the years since I left? How far into Glasstaff's black cloak have they been drawn?" he brooded, as he marched along the right flank of the wagon. He gave Cinis and Bob a nod and a smile whenever he saw them, and beamed up at Argos and Nemean when he took up position near theirs at the reins.
Tarok knew the road well and had made the journey between Phandalin and Neverwinter many times in both directions. He tried to pass as many tips as he could along the way to Argos. These were mostly just to make conversation, as the High Road was a well used, and important trade route. All the same, he scanned the path ahead to try to spot any difficulty or danger that might befall them.
Roland Drask: Human Rogue - Lost Mine of Phandelver
Cinis wasn't reassured by Tarok's words.
We're going to be attacked any minute, I just know it. All it will take is a load of archers to turn us into pincushions out here in these barren hills. That Tabaxi is just another kid, too. No military between the lot of these fools, just mercenary background. Taking this job will probably be the death of me. And everyone else. I sure hope it doesn't come to that. These kids, for all their bravado, deserve a better life than this.
Cinis continued his curmudgeonly attitude, grunting to Tarok when he passed.
Pit of Vipers: Watl Wiggins - Halfling Rogue(10)
League of Improbable Adventurers: Alan Quatermain - Human Fighter(3)
Another day of quiet travel sees you make camp by the crossing where the Triboar Trail meets the High Road. Aside from Cinis's cynicism, the expedition has settled into a comfortable routine of watchfulness.
OOC: Please subtract 1 day of rations from your characters.
You've now been on the Triboar Trail for about half a day. As you come around a bend, you spot two dead horses sprawled about fifty feet ahead of you, blocking the path. Each has several black-feathered arrows sticking out of it. The woods press close to the trail here, with a steep embankment and dense thickets on either side.
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