You all meet in a tavern. The Tavern of Laom, to be specific. It’s small- what can you expect from a tiny hamlet of barely triple digits?- but has been kept in immaculate form. It’s rather crowded, and you aren’t the only fledgling adventurers here. You’re not here because you’re about to be drawn into a bar fight (probably), or because you are about to meet a mysterious benefactor (you already have). Taross of Eldewick has sponsored you, fledgling dungeoneers, and he needs to send you a few documents.

A short man at the back of the tiny tavern motions to each one of you as you enter. He wears light grey robes and is bald, with no facial hair to speak of either. Once you’ve all noticed him, he introduces himself to you. “I am Vaeri-Alta,” he says somewhat stiffly, “It is nice to meet each one of you. The lord who sponsored you for your explorations, Lord Taross of Eldewick, sent me to meet you all here, just to get a final few things out of the way before I see you off.”

 Never one to be late for events(or at least not ever willing so), Vogan might be one of the first on the tavern, but hardly from any amount of hurrying his travels. Instead, anyone of a mind for troubling others often reconsidered when facing he grey skinned behemoth. Although Vogan personally considered himself "scrawny" and nowhere near as impressive in physique as his kin. But, he was a goliath, nevertheless, and without wearing his chef's attire this day, his often infectious jolly demeanor could only do so much to set others at ease; especially when traversing through some random hamlet.

Despite the odd look or double takes here and there, Vogan didn't let it get to him, and squeeze his way inside the tavern wearing a simple leather, sleeveless jerkin, well-worn breeches that appeared to be held more together random patchwork than a single cloth, and a sturdy pair of jackboots. He also appeared to have brought a small kitchen's worth of supplies either carried within or strapped to his backpack, as the clattering of pans and pots long gave away his arrival. "Well met, Vaeri-Alta! It's an honest pleasure to make your acquaintance! The name is Vogan! Vogan Vuma-Thamune, though you perhaps have heard of me under a different moniker, hmmm?~~ Mayhaps you've even visited one of my shows when traversing a river route!" He says with a chuckle and offers short man a hand to shake. Regardless of whether its accepted or not, Vogan took some time afterwards to study other compatriots as they arrived, absent-mindedly playing with the edge of the sole bit of hair on his head besides bushy brows; a fine blonde handlebar mustache.

An elf adorn in animal pelts stands near Vaeri. Tall with brown hair and green eyes gives an excited smile. His eyes dart throughout the room attempting to take in all of the new faces. He seems to focus on different conversations happening around the group sometimes muttering to himself about what he hears.

“Hello my friends, I am Colten. It is a pleasure to meet you all. Thank you for helping us, Sir Vaeri.” Colten looks over to Vogan and gives a slight bow. “Sadly I have not had the pleasure of seeing your show yet.”

(OOC: I'm not sure how common dragonborns are in this world, but I'll assume that they're not commonly seen outside of their clans or working as heavy infantry troops for well-funded armies.)

If the villagers around the Tavern of Laom were surprised to see a goliath, they were probably shocked to see a brass dragonborn soldier.  When Dreet opens the door to the tavern, he seems to fill the entire doorway.  The others who were already gathered can hear his heavy footsteps as he strides steadily across the room, his claws clacking slightly on the floor.  Dreet stands well over 6' tall, with a broad, muscular frame.  He spots Vaeri-Alta and joins the group.  There's a brief cacophony of clanking and clattering as he sets down a great variety of weapons, a helmet, and shield nearby.  The shield is emblazoned with a dragon head in profile.  His chainmail armor rattles and jangles as he moves around the group to shake hands and finally takes a seat on a bench.  He introduces himself, somewhat formally, as "Exile Dreet-Grenúach".

Dreet smiles a wide grin of sharp, pointed teeth when he sees Colten.  His voice is deep and sounds almost like a growl, but his tone is friendly and polite.  He says, "Colten?  You know Sir Hamart, do you not?  He recommended me for this mission too: thought that the group could use a proper soldier in case we run into trouble.  You probably saw me around the lord's manor."  He hurriedly adds, with less enthusiasm, "Of course, I was mostly working with the oxen and horses there."  Colten probably knows that there's more to the dragonborn than that since Dreet would also spar with Sir Hamart's more experienced soldiers, holding his own pretty well against multiple guards  at once.  Dreet gives Colten an appraising look and says, "I always thought you were more for the library than a dungeon.  I hope that you weren't sent here as punishment for some offense?  But -- if you were -- you must tell me the story later!"  His tone now has shifted to something that sounds more humorous and teasing.

Dreet gladly shakes Vogan's hand, grasping it firmly with his scaly, 4-fingered claw.  He confesses, "I am not familiar with you, Vogan Vuma-Thamune, nor with your clan, but I shall be glad to brave this dungeon with you."  Dreet gives a perplexed look at Vogan's gear but simply suggests with a toothy grin and a wink, "It seems that you come prepared to 'cook up' some mischief."

(OOC: I imagine that Dreet's scales are a shiny, brassy yellow, more like the avatar on his character sheet.  But he's just shy of 6'6" and nearly 400 pounds before he puts on any of his gear, so this image probably gives a better sense of his physical presence.)

Quote from Ben_Evolent >>

(OOC: I'm not sure how common dragonborns are in this world, but I'll assume that they're not commonly seen outside of their clans or working as heavy infantry troops for well-funded armies.)

 

(OOC: The world isn't heavily designed outside of the local area and the economies & histories of dungeons. You can kind of assume that general characteristics for how species organize socially are similar to how they are described in 5e Canon)

(OOC: Note I was always thinking of making Colten a Half-Elf but 2024 rules do not have that option which is why in the end I just made him an elf. Though his parents would be an elf and human. Also I am going to assume that there are people that go into dungeons to study them without being proper adventurers.)

Colten looks a little relieved when he sees Dreet yet a hint of sadness appears as Dreet talks.

“Master Dreet! It's good to see a familiar face. My presence here is less of a punishment and more of a right of passage. My father studied the dungeons … as I plan to.”

Colten regained his happy demeanor.

“Yes! Sir Hamart used to travel with my parents and taught me how to fight. It is smart to have a proper solder when exploring!”

Quote from JehanO >>

“Yes! Sir Hamart used to travel with my parents and taught me how to fight. It is smart to have a proper solder when exploring!”

Here, Dreet's face falls a little, and he admits, "Well, I'm not a proper soldier.  I was training to be a soldier, but I was still too young to fight for my clan when my father died and my family was sent into exile.  And too young to defend my father's honor against a slanderous charge."  But the prospect of this mission seems to lift his mood, "But that was years ago.  I was happy to get out my old armor and weapons for a worthy fight.  Maybe this dungeon is the first step to restoring my family's honor!"

"You do well to honor your father and follow in his footsteps," Dreet says, nodding encouragingly.  This idea makes sense to the clannish dragonborn.  He says, "Sir Hamart thought you a quick study, and I'm sure that there is much to learn in the dungeons," but his tone indicates little interest in the mysteries of the dungeons.  Colten can guess that Dreet is more interested in testing his mettle against whatever monsters and other dangers await the group in the dungeon.

Dreet looks around to the other members of the growing group as he sizes up the rest of this squad.

Quote from Ben_Evolent >>

....

Dreet gladly shakes Vogan's hand, grasping it firmly with his scaly, 4-fingered claw.  He confesses, "I am not familiar with you, Vogan Vuma-Thamune, nor with your clan, but I shall be glad to brave this dungeon with you."  Dreet gives a perplexed look at Vogan's gear but simply suggests with a toothy grin and a wink, "It seems that you come prepared to 'cook up' some mischief."d

Vogan gives Dreet (and anyone else who offer/might accept) a very firm handshake. "Mischief? Hardly! But, it appears a demonstration will be in order should we find ourselves needing to eat together out on the road or in a dungeon." Vogan excitedly claimed. After a few seconds or so, something appeared to finally click, as the goliath is soon laughing his butt off. "Ohhh! I get it! Cooking up mischief! Very good! You know I've been trying to, how do you say, uhh, workshop those sort of puns and jokes. So if any others come to mind do let me know." Vogan eventually said upon calming down during a lull in conversation.

Vaeri will accept Vogan's handshake. "I see you all have some history before now, eh?"

Corwin attempts to enter unnoticed. (Stealth 7[Nat 1] on sheet)

He failed to remember he's actually been at this tavern a few years ago. And the barmaid recognized him right away.

She loudly exclaims "Corwin! I remember you, you were with a wizard, and he blew out the west wall trying to entertain for his supper? You are looking good! I bet you are with Vaeri-Alta's group back there." She points and waves and gets all your attention. 

Corwin sheepishly shuffles over, his plans to rob you blind then give your stuff back as proof of his talents foiled by lady luck.

"Hello all, I'm Corwin, I assume you are all answering a similar invitation to me." Wearing practical leathers that look a bit too new for a serious professional, Corwin would seem to be rather conventionally attractive, but his manner and voice are grating in a way suggesting an untrustworthy horse merchant. Fair of hair and eye, You are tempted to write him off as a useless prettyboy. 

Quote from Mehmen >>

Quote from Ben_Evolent >>

Dreet gives a perplexed look at Vogan's gear but simply suggests with a toothy grin and a wink, "It seems that you come prepared to 'cook up' some mischief."

 

Vogan gives Dreet (and anyone else who offer/might accept) a very firm handshake. "Mischief? Hardly! But, it appears a demonstration will be in order should we find ourselves needing to eat together out on the road or in a dungeon." Vogan excitedly claimed. After a few seconds or so, something appeared to finally click, as the goliath is soon laughing his butt off. "Ohhh! I get it! Cooking up mischief! Very good! You know I've been trying to, how do you say, uhh, workshop those sort of puns and jokes. So if any others come to mind do let me know." Vogan eventually said upon calming down during a lull in conversation.

Dreet was watching Vogan and waiting expectantly, so he is gratified that his joke finally lands with the Goliath.  The toothy grin is back, and as he chuckles along with Vogan, his tail twitches appreciatively.  He says, "You can count on it, Vogan.  Whatever work is before us, I'm sure that we'll be spending many hours together traveling, resting, and eating meals.  I hope we can find some fun, even in a dark dungeon."

Quote from Charwoman_Gene >>

Corwin sheepishly shuffles over, his plans to rob you blind then give your stuff back as proof of his talents foiled by lady luck.

"Hello all, I'm Corwin, I assume you are all answering a similar invitation to me." Wearing practical leathers that look a bit too new for a serious professional, Corwin would seem to be rather conventionally attractive, but his manner and voice are grating in a way suggesting an untrustworthy horse merchant. Fair of hair and eye, You are tempted to write him off as a useless prettyboy. 

Dreet hears the barmaid, and his eyes track Corwin as the man makes his way over to the table.  Now that the dragonborn has ensconced himself in a seat, he doesn't bother to stand back up, just nodding to Corwin as he arrives.  Even seated, Dreet's massive size and muscular body are apparent.  The wooden bench seems to creek under him as he leans forward slightly: "Yes, that's us."  Dreet introduces himself briefly and then gestures to an open spot around the table. "Take a seat and join us, Corwin.  Vaeri-Alta was about to get started.  While we wait, maybe you could tell us about what interest the dungeon holds for you.  What brings you to our squad?"  Corwin's keen eye notices Dreet's pile of weapons and gear nearby, including a massive greataxe whose handle leans against the back of Dreet's bench.  It seems that the dragonborn is ready for trouble, even in this quiet little tavern.

Right before meeting time a human arrives in the door. He is wearing leather armor, and has a staff in hand. On his side a book with ebony cover can be seen hanging at easy reach. Aroun dhis legs a black fox is walking ((@DM there is a 0 challenge rating Fox in icewind dale can I choose that as familiar? If not it's either an owl or a bat on the shoulder)). As he is send to the table he walks that way and Aknowledges you all with a nod.

"My name is Dutrirr, glad to acompany you all into the dungeon."

Quote from Secretfool >>

@DM there is a 0 challenge rating Fox in icewind dale can I choose that as familiar?

 Sure

Quote from Paysien >>

Vaeri will accept Vogan's handshake. "I see you all have some history before now, eh?"

Dreet says, "Ha!  Yes!"  Dreet chuckles again, "I mean, unless we were some strange, magical beasts who live our lives backwards in time, it would be strange -- would  it not? -- if we did not each have our own history before now!"  He doesn't think that that's what the man meant, but he looks around to see whether his companions got the joke.  Then he answers the man's question, "But other than Colten here, these others are strangers to me." 

"I'm a treasure-hunter, with a specialty in magical treasures. I'm also good in getting in and out of places. I'm a useful guy to have around." says Corwin.

Quote from Charwoman_Gene >>

"I'm a treasure-hunter, with a specialty in magical treasures. I'm also good in getting in and out of places. I'm a useful guy to have around." says Corwin.

Dreet's deep, growling voice carries even when he's mostly musing to himself, "Getting in and out of places...I guess you mean: 'places where you're not supposed to be'?"  His golden eyes turn to Corwin again, and he stares for a moment, assessing the man's simple, light gear.  This one won't be breaking down doors, he thinks.  And Corwin doesn't seem like a man whose honeyed words would give him access to a place.  Would he sound trustworthy even to other humans?, Dreet wonders.  So...maybe someone who can move quickly and stay hidden?

Finally, Dreet asks Corwin, "You're -- what then? -- some sort of scout?"  Any question could sound threatening, coming from a big, heavily-armored dragonborn, but Dreet's tone sounds neutral.  Curious, not accusing.  And he said "scout," not "burglar."

"Yeah, a scout. That sounds about right." says Corwin.

Vaeri notes Dreet's comment. "Well, people tend to stop being strangers after sharing some ale. Shall I grab some for you all?"

Vogan immediately perked up at the offer and all but slammed a fist against the table. "A capital idea! Nothing like some good ale, and some fine food to create bonds that'll last a life time and more." He said with a smile that soon turned into a smirk as he added a bit more. "But as drinks was the only thing offered, I would be poor friend to any to take an advantage of an already generous offer.

"Yes, thank you," Dreet answers Vaeri, "but I do not expect you to have much success, no matter how hard you grip."  He looks with concentration at his clawed hands in front of him as he slowly squeezes them into big, scaly fists.  Then Dreet looks up from his fists and looks at Vaeri to suggest, "Not unless you also grab some mugs or a jug."  His face breaks into a broad smile as he says innocently, "I've never had much success at 'grabbing' ale."  He opens his fists with his fingers spread, palms raised, "It always runs right through my fingers!"