"Oh," the recruiter laughs. "You want to know how we know about you. Okay, I'll be blunt. Peter Freewood, our leader, is a ghost, and he works with other ghosts who keep tabs on anything interesting; whether they be spots of harvestable plants, a new permanent portal, or people."
"As for if there are others... Yeah, there are about half a dozen others that we reached out to." She continues.
She sighs when Ralnor asks about the rumor. "Alright, fine. I'll tell you the rumor. But know this: it came from a kid who lies all the time. The kid says there's a goddess who is behind the portals. He didn't give any details, nor did he say someone else saw it. That's why we think he's lying."
Jharun’s gaze narrows thoughtfully, absorbing the Merchant Golem’s words. The tension in the air feels tangible, as if the unseen forces it describes ripple just beneath the surface.
“You mention the ones who controlled this power were scholars. What kind of scholars? Were they tied to any known order, guild, or legacy? Something we could maybe trace to help us” his hand lightly brushes his windstone, a small stone he carried on his belt. He ponders with himself, knowing what it’s like to seek answers and having none.
His attention goes back to the Golem, studying his movements and wondering what his next move is.
“And these limits you mention, what happens when these limits are broken and they fight back? What signs should we be watching for, so we don’t fall into the same trap?” he said still having his hand on his windstone.
Ralnor ponders on the situation for a few seconds.
“If you will allow it I would like to talk to the boy. I may be able to get more information from him. But as I assume you already know I am happy to be of service. Tell me what I can do to help and consider it done.”
The bamboo doors of the Collective creaked as they swung open, a slow, deliberate sound that broke through the quiet hum of conversation. Daniel stepped inside, his movements brisk yet careful, the faint lines of concern etched into his face. His merchant’s attire, though well-traveled, bore no signs of recent hardship—yet the weight in his posture suggested otherwise.
Ralnor caught the shift in the room instantly—new information had arrived, and with it, a ripple of uncertainty.
“I was in Embercrest,” Daniel said, scanning the space, his tone edged with something just short of alarm. “And I overheard something… unsettling.”
The recruiter turned toward him, her expression shifting from measured patience to keen attention. A subtle adjustment of stance—she was listening now.
“People,” Daniel continued, voice lowering slightly, “have gone missing. I don’t know how many, I don’t know who exactly. But the way it was whispered—the way it carried through the air—it wasn’t ordinary concern. It was fear.”
The flickering lamplight overhead seemed to press into the silence that followed. The room wasn’t unfamiliar with mysteries—its scholars, its seekers—they pursued knowledge with steady conviction. But this? This was different.
Ralnor watched Daniel closely, reading the tension in his shoulders, the careful way he chose his words. Missing people. In Embercrest. Not a random rumor, not speculation—the merchant had heard it first-hand.
The Colony of Nature’s Majesty looms ahead—a sanctuary of scholars, seekers, and those who aim to understand the world's mysteries. Built into the landscape, its structures blend with nature rather than stand against it, vines curling along wooden pillars, glass reflecting the untamed beauty beyond its borders.
Jharun steps inside, the weight of the journey settling on his shoulders. The Canine Golem moves with quiet precision, leading him through the entrance and into the lobby of the Naturalists’ Collective.
The air smells of parchment and soil, the scent of ink lingering where scholars pore over ancient texts and new discoveries alike. Conversations murmur through the space—debates, theories, quiet discussions of findings that reshape understanding itself.
The recruiter—sharp-eyed, composed—stands nearby, observing Jharun’s arrival.
At the same time, Daniel, the traveling merchant, speaks in hushed tones with a group of researchers. Concern is etched into his posture—whispers of people going missing from Embercrest.
Ooc: Guys, I lost the tab I was using to have Microsoft Copilot narrate the campaign, so... I'm gonna have to do this myself, now. If things go south any more, I might have to cancel the campaign. I'll see if I can get back on track, but if not then things will be harder.
Ooc: Guys, I lost the tab I was using to have Microsoft Copilot narrate the campaign, so... I'm gonna have to do this myself, now. If things go south any more, I might have to cancel the campaign. I'll see if I can get back on track, but if not then things will be harder.
Ooc: good news, I got my artificial assistant back on track. We can continue like normal, uh, once you respond... Guys, I'm waiting on you! Lol.
Ralnor stands in silence processing the appearance of a new person.
“And what might your name be? Do you all normally travel to other realms? Nevertheless if this is something you are stressed about friends it shall be okay. I have dealt with the fires of creation and I can deal with a few missing people.”
The lamplight flickered as Daniel straightened, his expression firm but laced with a quiet urgency. He met Ralnor’s gaze directly, weighing his words before speaking.
“My name is Daniel,” he said, his tone steady but edged with concern. “And what I overheard in Embercrest wasn’t just idle talk—it carried fear, real fear. This isn’t just a few missing people. It could be something much worse.”
He shifted slightly, adjusting the strap of his satchel, as if grounding himself before pressing on.
“I need you to go to Embercrest,” Daniel continued. “Whatever is happening there, it won’t fix itself. But you shouldn’t go alone—find others who can help. You’ll need more than just confidence in this.”
The room settled into a hush, the weight of his request hanging in the air. The flickering lamplight did little to soften the gravity of what lay ahead.
Ralnor attempts to relieve Daniel’s fears and help him gain confidence in Ralnor's abilities.
“You speak the truth, it will be necessary for me to find allies to aid in this investigation. I have lived a long life and know how to find those that can help. Confidence is not enough but I luckily have knowledge and my sword to compensate for the times my confidence is not enough. I shall accept your quest and return when I have solved this mystery. Do you have any recommendations on where I can find trustworthy individuals to join this quest?”
Ralnor’s words carry a calm reassurance, but Daniel remains somewhat skeptical. He appreciates Ralnor’s confidence and experience, but the weight of the situation lingers.
Daniel shifts his stance, exhaling through his nose as if contemplating how much trust to place in Ralnor’s ability alone. “You have strength, and certainly conviction,” he says, his tone measured. “But this is no ordinary investigation. Whoever—or whatever—is causing these disappearances is working beneath the surface, unseen.”
He gestures toward the marketplace beyond the Collective’s doors. “If you’re looking for allies, you might find willing hands among the mercenaries and scholars here in the Colony. Some have traveled far, others seek knowledge, and a few… they’ve lost people of their own.”
His gaze hardens slightly, weighing the depth of the task ahead. “Start there. But choose carefully—trust is a rare thing, and the wrong company might only pull you deeper into danger.”
The conversation lingers, the weight of Daniel’s words pressing into the quiet space between them. Ralnor now has a direction—but the choices he makes will determine the path this mystery takes.
Daniel offers Ralnor a knowing glance, his expression steady but laced with quiet finality.
“Just the way you came,” he says simply, adjusting his stance as if confirming an undeniable truth. “There’s only one path that leads to your portal.”
The words hang in the air, clear and direct—no alternative, no hidden routes. The Colony had many secrets, but travel wasn’t one of them. The path was singular, unmoving. It wasn’t a choice—it was a fact.
The flickering lamplight casts long shadows along the walls, and for a moment, Ralnor takes in the weight of what’s been said. There is no debate, no uncertainty.
One road. One way back.
Whatever awaited him in Embercrest, there was no detour—only the path ahead.
Vay exhales through his nose, shaking his head slightly as he wipes his hands on his apron. "Vakaris, you know as well as I do—thick oil isn’t rare, just inconvenient to get. The general store has plenty if you don’t feel like hunting for it yourself."
Vakaris huffs, crossing his arms as his tail flicks in agitation. "So you knew that all along?" His tone carries more exasperation than true frustration.
Vay shrugs with a smirk. "Figured you’d want to hear your options before making a choice."
The weredragon narrows his eyes at Vay before letting out a short, rumbling exhale. "Fine. No sense wandering the wilds when it’s sitting on a shelf."
He turns sharply, adjusting the straps on his armor before striding toward the marketplace. His movements are deliberate, his mind clearly set on his next errand—but whether he’ll grumble about it the whole way remains to be seen.
Ralnor observes the exchange, taking note of Vakaris’s temperament and practicality. If he’s seeking allies, Vakaris might be worth considering.
DM tips: Vakaris Emberfang is actually the unassigned character I made for this campaign. He's a powerful Pyromancer — he uses fire sigils, fire bolts, fireballs, and flamethrower spells, as well as alchemist's fire (flasks). He also uses an obsidian mace, which deals 1d6 Bludgeoning damage and inflicts burning (2 fire damage per turn).
Ooc: the weredragon's weapon — obsidian mace — is actually an item you can get by crafting.
Ralnor puts on a smile and tries to seem as friendly as possible.
“Good day friends. My name is Ralnor and I am in search of those looking for adventure and mystery. Exploring other realms and helping those in need. The people of this land need help. Does that idea interest you?”
Vakaris halts mid-step, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly as he considers Ralnor’s words. The idea of adventure, of stepping beyond routine troubles, seems to strike a chord. His tail flicks once, a subtle sign of contemplation.
Vay raises an eyebrow but remains silent for a moment, letting Vakaris make his own choice.
The dragonborn exhales through his nose, tilting his head slightly. “You speak well,” he says, arms still folded. “Adventure, mystery… I won’t pretend that doesn’t interest me. But I don’t throw my mace into the unknown without reason.” He gestures toward Ralnor. “What exactly are we dealing with? And who else do you have in mind?”
His tone is not dismissive, but cautious—a warrior weighing risk against reward.
Vay lets out a quiet sigh, rolling a mana crystal between his fingers as he studies Ralnor. He seems neither impressed nor dismissive—just pragmatic.
"Adventure and mystery, huh?" he muses, tilting his head slightly. "Sounds like more trouble than it's worth. I don’t mind helping people, but I prefer my problems to be ones I can brew a solution for."
He gestures toward his collection of ingredients, his movements deliberate. "I’ve got a ghost to do my fighting, which means I can focus on what actually matters—alchemy, harvesting, refining." His gaze flicks toward Vakaris for a brief moment before returning to Ralnor. "If your grand quest leads to rare materials, maybe I’ll be interested. Otherwise, I think I’ll leave the sword-swinging to those who enjoy it."
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DM / dialogue:
"Oh," the recruiter laughs. "You want to know how we know about you. Okay, I'll be blunt. Peter Freewood, our leader, is a ghost, and he works with other ghosts who keep tabs on anything interesting; whether they be spots of harvestable plants, a new permanent portal, or people."
"As for if there are others... Yeah, there are about half a dozen others that we reached out to." She continues.
She sighs when Ralnor asks about the rumor. "Alright, fine. I'll tell you the rumor. But know this: it came from a kid who lies all the time. The kid says there's a goddess who is behind the portals. He didn't give any details, nor did he say someone else saw it. That's why we think he's lying."
Jharun’s gaze narrows thoughtfully, absorbing the Merchant Golem’s words. The tension in the air feels tangible, as if the unseen forces it describes ripple just beneath the surface.
“You mention the ones who controlled this power were scholars. What kind of scholars? Were they tied to any known order, guild, or legacy? Something we could maybe trace to help us” his hand lightly brushes his windstone, a small stone he carried on his belt. He ponders with himself, knowing what it’s like to seek answers and having none.
His attention goes back to the Golem, studying his movements and wondering what his next move is.
“And these limits you mention, what happens when these limits are broken and they fight back? What signs should we be watching for, so we don’t fall into the same trap?” he said still having his hand on his windstone.
Ralnor ponders on the situation for a few seconds.
“If you will allow it I would like to talk to the boy. I may be able to get more information from him. But as I assume you already know I am happy to be of service. Tell me what I can do to help and consider it done.”
DM / dialogue:
"Oh," the recruiter says, "don't expect to see him. He was here one time with his mom and that's it."
With that, Ralnor finally lets off of the questions, at least for the recruiter.
DM / dialogue:
The bamboo doors of the Collective creaked as they swung open, a slow, deliberate sound that broke through the quiet hum of conversation. Daniel stepped inside, his movements brisk yet careful, the faint lines of concern etched into his face. His merchant’s attire, though well-traveled, bore no signs of recent hardship—yet the weight in his posture suggested otherwise.
Ralnor caught the shift in the room instantly—new information had arrived, and with it, a ripple of uncertainty.
“I was in Embercrest,” Daniel said, scanning the space, his tone edged with something just short of alarm. “And I overheard something… unsettling.”
The recruiter turned toward him, her expression shifting from measured patience to keen attention. A subtle adjustment of stance—she was listening now.
“People,” Daniel continued, voice lowering slightly, “have gone missing. I don’t know how many, I don’t know who exactly. But the way it was whispered—the way it carried through the air—it wasn’t ordinary concern. It was fear.”
The flickering lamplight overhead seemed to press into the silence that followed. The room wasn’t unfamiliar with mysteries—its scholars, its seekers—they pursued knowledge with steady conviction. But this? This was different.
Ralnor watched Daniel closely, reading the tension in his shoulders, the careful way he chose his words. Missing people. In Embercrest. Not a random rumor, not speculation—the merchant had heard it first-hand.
DM:
The Colony of Nature’s Majesty looms ahead—a sanctuary of scholars, seekers, and those who aim to understand the world's mysteries. Built into the landscape, its structures blend with nature rather than stand against it, vines curling along wooden pillars, glass reflecting the untamed beauty beyond its borders.
Jharun steps inside, the weight of the journey settling on his shoulders. The Canine Golem moves with quiet precision, leading him through the entrance and into the lobby of the Naturalists’ Collective.
The air smells of parchment and soil, the scent of ink lingering where scholars pore over ancient texts and new discoveries alike. Conversations murmur through the space—debates, theories, quiet discussions of findings that reshape understanding itself.
The recruiter—sharp-eyed, composed—stands nearby, observing Jharun’s arrival.
At the same time, Daniel, the traveling merchant, speaks in hushed tones with a group of researchers. Concern is etched into his posture—whispers of people going missing from Embercrest.
Ooc: Guys, I lost the tab I was using to have Microsoft Copilot narrate the campaign, so... I'm gonna have to do this myself, now. If things go south any more, I might have to cancel the campaign. I'll see if I can get back on track, but if not then things will be harder.
Ooc: good news, I got my artificial assistant back on track. We can continue like normal, uh, once you respond... Guys, I'm waiting on you! Lol.
Ralnor stands in silence processing the appearance of a new person.
“And what might your name be? Do you all normally travel to other realms? Nevertheless if this is something you are stressed about friends it shall be okay. I have dealt with the fires of creation and I can deal with a few missing people.”
DM / dialogue:
The lamplight flickered as Daniel straightened, his expression firm but laced with a quiet urgency. He met Ralnor’s gaze directly, weighing his words before speaking.
“My name is Daniel,” he said, his tone steady but edged with concern. “And what I overheard in Embercrest wasn’t just idle talk—it carried fear, real fear. This isn’t just a few missing people. It could be something much worse.”
He shifted slightly, adjusting the strap of his satchel, as if grounding himself before pressing on.
“I need you to go to Embercrest,” Daniel continued. “Whatever is happening there, it won’t fix itself. But you shouldn’t go alone—find others who can help. You’ll need more than just confidence in this.”
The room settled into a hush, the weight of his request hanging in the air. The flickering lamplight did little to soften the gravity of what lay ahead.
Embercrest awaited. And so did its mystery.
Ralnor attempts to relieve Daniel’s fears and help him gain confidence in Ralnor's abilities.
“You speak the truth, it will be necessary for me to find allies to aid in this investigation. I have lived a long life and know how to find those that can help. Confidence is not enough but I luckily have knowledge and my sword to compensate for the times my confidence is not enough. I shall accept your quest and return when I have solved this mystery. Do you have any recommendations on where I can find trustworthy individuals to join this quest?”
Persuasion Roll: 8
DM / dialogue — factoring Persuasion roll.
Ralnor’s words carry a calm reassurance, but Daniel remains somewhat skeptical. He appreciates Ralnor’s confidence and experience, but the weight of the situation lingers.
Daniel shifts his stance, exhaling through his nose as if contemplating how much trust to place in Ralnor’s ability alone. “You have strength, and certainly conviction,” he says, his tone measured. “But this is no ordinary investigation. Whoever—or whatever—is causing these disappearances is working beneath the surface, unseen.”
He gestures toward the marketplace beyond the Collective’s doors. “If you’re looking for allies, you might find willing hands among the mercenaries and scholars here in the Colony. Some have traveled far, others seek knowledge, and a few… they’ve lost people of their own.”
His gaze hardens slightly, weighing the depth of the task ahead. “Start there. But choose carefully—trust is a rare thing, and the wrong company might only pull you deeper into danger.”
The conversation lingers, the weight of Daniel’s words pressing into the quiet space between them. Ralnor now has a direction—but the choices he makes will determine the path this mystery takes.
Ralnor contemplates the best types of allies for a quest such as this one for a second before responding.
“I will heed your warning friend. I shall start by finding others that can help. After that is done, what is the best way to get to Embercrest?”
DM:
Daniel offers Ralnor a knowing glance, his expression steady but laced with quiet finality.
“Just the way you came,” he says simply, adjusting his stance as if confirming an undeniable truth. “There’s only one path that leads to your portal.”
The words hang in the air, clear and direct—no alternative, no hidden routes. The Colony had many secrets, but travel wasn’t one of them. The path was singular, unmoving. It wasn’t a choice—it was a fact.
The flickering lamplight casts long shadows along the walls, and for a moment, Ralnor takes in the weight of what’s been said. There is no debate, no uncertainty.
One road. One way back.
Whatever awaited him in Embercrest, there was no detour—only the path ahead.
With that Ralnor gives a deep bow and leaves.
"Thank you for your help and information."
With that Ralnor looks for willing mercenaries to aid him in his investigation.
DM / potential recruitment:
Vay exhales through his nose, shaking his head slightly as he wipes his hands on his apron. "Vakaris, you know as well as I do—thick oil isn’t rare, just inconvenient to get. The general store has plenty if you don’t feel like hunting for it yourself."
Vakaris huffs, crossing his arms as his tail flicks in agitation. "So you knew that all along?" His tone carries more exasperation than true frustration.
Vay shrugs with a smirk. "Figured you’d want to hear your options before making a choice."
The weredragon narrows his eyes at Vay before letting out a short, rumbling exhale. "Fine. No sense wandering the wilds when it’s sitting on a shelf."
He turns sharply, adjusting the straps on his armor before striding toward the marketplace. His movements are deliberate, his mind clearly set on his next errand—but whether he’ll grumble about it the whole way remains to be seen.
Ralnor observes the exchange, taking note of Vakaris’s temperament and practicality. If he’s seeking allies, Vakaris might be worth considering.
DM tips: Vakaris Emberfang is actually the unassigned character I made for this campaign. He's a powerful Pyromancer — he uses fire sigils, fire bolts, fireballs, and flamethrower spells, as well as alchemist's fire (flasks). He also uses an obsidian mace, which deals 1d6 Bludgeoning damage and inflicts burning (2 fire damage per turn).
Ooc: the weredragon's weapon — obsidian mace — is actually an item you can get by crafting.
Ralnor puts on a smile and tries to seem as friendly as possible.
“Good day friends. My name is Ralnor and I am in search of those looking for adventure and mystery. Exploring other realms and helping those in need. The people of this land need help. Does that idea interest you?”
Persuasion Roll: 14
DM / Vakaris Emberfang:
Vakaris halts mid-step, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly as he considers Ralnor’s words. The idea of adventure, of stepping beyond routine troubles, seems to strike a chord. His tail flicks once, a subtle sign of contemplation.
Vay raises an eyebrow but remains silent for a moment, letting Vakaris make his own choice.
The dragonborn exhales through his nose, tilting his head slightly. “You speak well,” he says, arms still folded. “Adventure, mystery… I won’t pretend that doesn’t interest me. But I don’t throw my mace into the unknown without reason.” He gestures toward Ralnor. “What exactly are we dealing with? And who else do you have in mind?”
His tone is not dismissive, but cautious—a warrior weighing risk against reward.
DM / Vay, the alchemist:
Vay lets out a quiet sigh, rolling a mana crystal between his fingers as he studies Ralnor. He seems neither impressed nor dismissive—just pragmatic.
"Adventure and mystery, huh?" he muses, tilting his head slightly. "Sounds like more trouble than it's worth. I don’t mind helping people, but I prefer my problems to be ones I can brew a solution for."
He gestures toward his collection of ingredients, his movements deliberate. "I’ve got a ghost to do my fighting, which means I can focus on what actually matters—alchemy, harvesting, refining." His gaze flicks toward Vakaris for a brief moment before returning to Ralnor. "If your grand quest leads to rare materials, maybe I’ll be interested. Otherwise, I think I’ll leave the sword-swinging to those who enjoy it."