You Meet in a Tavern...

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[youmeetinatavern]

After a few days, Wilimar was finally starting to get used to the long days spent on foot. He still wasn’t as unfazed as their group leaders and Huvong, but he didn’t feel quite as exhausted when they finally got to make camp for the night and get some rest. 

Now that they were getting farther north, the sunshine was becoming less and less and clouds crowded in the sky overhead and the mountains grew closer on the horizon. 

“We can stop for lunch here,” Feilos announced, leaving the main road to duck into a small cropping of trees. “What the hell?” he said, stopping short as he broached the tree line. 

“What is it?” Detri asked, peering over his shoulder. “Shit...” she murmured. 

Sylis and Aravae exchanged a look. 

“What is it?” Wilimar asked, creeping closer. 

“Someone got attacked here. Be careful, they might still be around,” Feilos said, glancing over his shoulder at them. He signaled to Detri and they split apart, heading into the trees to check their surroundings. 

Aravae moved towards the scene, peering at the ground and giving Wilimar a chance to inspect the clearing. 

A large carriage was on its side, one of the wheels broken off and smashed apart. Another wheel was barely hanging on to the axle, a gentle tug would probably be enough to pull it free. The remains of a campfire had been scattered around the clearing, ash trod through and kicked up. Aravae picked up a rock, a spot of dried blood darkening the side of it. 

Ripped clothes and scraps of fabrics littered the ground and large barrels were broken, spilling apples and potatoes across the ground. Some had been stomped and smashed to pieces in the scuffle. 

Feilos and Detri pushed through the opposite side of the clearing, appearing out of the brush. 

“We didn’t find much of trail,” Detri sighed. “Which is unusual considering how much damage was done here.” 

Aravae rolled a 14+1=15 on her survival check. 

“There were at least a half dozen people here,” Arave said, running her fingers over the prints in the dirt. She got up and circled the clearing. “Someone ran, there’s blood here on the leaves, and another pool of it mixed in with the dirt here. I’m surprised there aren’t any bodies. At least one of them had to have been injured bad enough to die. I also have bad news.”

“What is it?” Detri asked. 

“The carriage bears the mark of the royal family. Whoever was in there was important, and its likely Corrinthia doesn’t know about it yet.” 

“That’s bad, really bad. Do you think you can track the blood trail?” Feilos asked. 

She shrugged and moved into the trees. Detri followed, but they came back a few minutes later shaking their heads. 

“I don’t know how they did it, or why they would want to take the bodies of the people who were attacked, but everyone’s gone,” Aravae said, dropping the bloody rock she was holding. 

“We’ll have to keep an eye out and report this when we get back,” Detri said, running a hand over her scales. “Without any leads we can’t do much about it and we need to take care of that dragon.” He glanced around the clearing. “I know I said we should break for lunch, but I think we should walk a bit farther before settling down. I don’t think it’s wise to be close to this.” 

The group nodded and picked their way back to the road, silent as they continued on. 

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[youmeetinatavern]

The party reconvened at the city gate. They distributed the healing potions and supplies between everyone and shouldered their packs. Feilos nodded at the guards as they walked through the open gate, side-stepping the caravan that was requesting entry into the city. 

Detri inhaled deeply, sighing as they walked single fall along the edge of the road. The area surrounding Corrinthia was a vast landscape, occasionally dotted with trees. Farms crowded the immediate areas around the city, but no one had to look far if they wanted a view of unblemished land. 

Even from the city, the looming mountains of the northern lands could be seen in the distance. They looked like a small blemish on the landscape, but would soon be monstrous, stretching high above their heads and breaching the clouds, their tops hidden even with the clearest of skies. 

Wilimar looked around, taking in the landscape. It wasn’t his first time travelling. He’d had to make the journey from his home to Corrinthia, but it was his first adventure. There was a buzz in the air around them. Or maybe it was just his imagination. 

~~~

Wilimar rolled his shoulders, trying to ease some of the soreness that was already setting in after carrying a pack for most of the day. Feilos and Detri were unfazed by the journey, their heavy weapons hanging at their sides without issue. 

Sylvis and Aravae were also beginning to show signs of fatigue, their shoulders sagging a little under the weight and their steps hesitating every now and then. 

Corrinthia had long since disappeared on the horizon. The endless planes were broken up by trees. A large lake had been briefly glimpsed before the rolling hills obscured it. 

“We should be able to find a nice hollow out here,” Detri said, pointing off into the trees. “We can settle in and make camp for the night. It’ll be good to get some rest before continuing our journey. We still have a while ahead of us.” 

Almost everyone nodded in relief. Besides Feilos and Detri, the only person who seemed unfazed by the wearying journey was Huvong. 

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What happens next? Post your choice in the replies below!

A. The party encounters a merchant caravan with a broken wheel. 

B. The party is attacked by bandits.

C. The party finds evidence of an attack, but no bodies or survivors are found.

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[youmeetinatavern]

Feilos whistled. “Wow, it sounds like the two of you saved each other.” 

Sylvis nodded. “Yes, we did. And we’ve stuck together ever since then. We’ve gone on adventures, travelled to new towns, and escaped a lot of trouble. We’ve gotten stronger. I can’t help but wonder what could’ve happened if anyone else had found Aravae in those woods. If anyone else would’ve found her.” 

“No sense worrying about that. You two found each other and have a stronger bond than most people could ever expect to forge in a lifetime.” 

“We owe each other a lot,” they whispered. 

Feilos chuckled. “When you’ve come this far, you don’t owe each other nothin.’”

He looked over his shoulder at Huvong who was trailing behind, but still attentive to the conversation. 

“What about you, Huvong? Have you and Wilimar gotten up to anything like that in your travels?” 

“What travels?” he scoffed. “We hardly know each other.” 

“Yet!” Feilos said brightly. “Don’t forget that you’re now part of a dragon-hunting crew.” 

“Yeah, sure,” she muttered. “Are we going to stand around talking all day, or are we going to pick up some supplies?” 

“So impatient. You’ll learn soon enough to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.” 

~~~

“I think we’ve got about everything on our list,” Detri said, looking at the piles of supplies each of them carried. “Good work, you two! Our group is coming together.” 

“This is all so exciting!” Wilimar gushed, careful not to trip over Detri’s tail again. “My first real adventure!” 

Detri chuckled. “I’m glad you’re excited kid, but remember that we’re going to be wrangling a dragon. That’s a dangerous business to be in.” 

Wilimar nodded. “Do you have any advice?” 

“If you see teeth, run,” Aravae said, her voice soft. 

Detri laughed. “That’s some good advice, actually! But once we get to Norwich and have a better understanding of the situation, it shouldn’t be too difficult to come up with a plan of attack. I hope you know how to use a bow or something, because that’s going to be the key to staying out of the worst of it.” 

“I’m covered,” Aravae said, shifting to feel the familiar weight of her bow on her back. 

“Let’s head for the gate. If we’re lucky, we’ll make it their before the other half of our group. Knowing Feilos, he probably got side-tracked talking to people.” 

“You two have been friends for a while?” Wilimar asked. 

“We most certainly have, but that’s a story for another day,” she said with a wink. “For now, onwards to adventure!” 

Wilimar shifted the bundles in his arms and hurried after Detri, only making it a few steps before he tripped over her tail again. 

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[youmeetinatavern]

“I ran into Aravae in the forest. She was cornered at the base of mountain by a pack of wolves...” 

Sylvis looked up at the sky, trying to figure out how they’d gotten lost in the middle of a forest when they’d been following a path moments ago. They sighed and were prepared to turn back in the direction they’d come when she heard barking. 

They crept closer, the snow crunching under their boots as they did their best to keep to the trees. The forest wasn’t their turf. Hopefully, whatever was kicking up a fuss would leave them alone. 

The snow ahead was a mess. Paw prints and a trail of blood clearly visible even to someone lacking in survival skills. 

“Bastards,” they heard a voice pant. “You just couldn’t leave my kill alone.” 

Sylvis slowed their pace, wincing whenever their armor shifted and rang softly. They peeked around a tree and found another half-elf clutching her arm, blood already soaked through the fabric. Her hair was messy and a bow was strapped to her back. 

“Well, if this is how I’m going to go, I might as well take a few of you with me.” She let go of her wounded arm and pulled out a dagger, flipping it around in her hand so the blade was pointed at the pack surrounding her. 

Several of the wolves growled, aware that she still posed a threat. 

Without thinking, Sylvis stepped out from behind the tree and raised their hand, the incantation leaving their lips. A pale green shimmer appeared around the woman as her wound partially healed. 

Sylvis cast healing word. They rolled 1+6 for a total of 7 HP. Aravae now has 13 hit points. 

She looked up, surprised, and met Sylvis’s eyes. 

“Well, looks like my luck is finally turning around. Thanks friend. Be ready to run.” 

“I...what?” they asked. 

The woman launched herself forward, running at the nearest wolf. It didn’t back down and charged to meet her. 

Aravae swung her her dagger at the wolf’s neck. 

Aravae rolls a 5+5 for a total of 10 on her attack roll. 

The wolf dodged, jaws snapping at Aravae. 

“Shit. Okay, nevermind.” She continued past the wolf, moving between two of the beasts as she made a beeline for Sylvis. 

Both wolves take attacks of opportunity on Aravae. The first wolf rolls a natural 20 on its attack, dealing 13 damage from the critical hit, and knocking Aravae unconscious. 

The second wolf rolls a 10 on its attack against the unconscious Aravae. Its sharp teeth aren’t able to pierce the thick hide of her armor.

“Oh, no!” Sylvis gasped. 

Two of the wolves split from the group, while two remain around Aravae. The first wolf snaps at Sylvis, but isn’t able to pierce their armor with a 15 on its attack roll. The second wolf rolls a 22, dealing 8 piercing damage to Sylvis. Sylvis has 2 HP remaining. 

Only one of the wolves around Aravae manage to strike her with a 17 to hit. Aravae loses two death saving throws. 

“I refuse to let you die,” Sylvis said, gritting their teeth. 

Sylvis cast healing word on Aravae, using their last spell slot. Aravae regains 8 HP and is conscious again. 

“Let’s get out of here!” Sylvis cried. 

They use their action to disengage from the wolves surrounding them and begin to run away. 

“You don’t have to tell me twice! Get in a tree!” 

Aravae uses half her movement to get up and their action to disengage from the wolves surrounding her. She uses the rest of her movement to run to the nearest tree. 

The wolves give chase. The first one misses, but the second wolf manages to bite Aravae once again, dealing 6 piercing damage. She has 2 HP remaining. 

The other two wolves chase Sylvis, quickly catching up. The first wolf misses, but the second hits with a 21 on the attack roll. Sylvis takes 7 piercing damage and falls unconscious. 

Sylvis rolls a 9 on their first death save, a failure. 

Aravae scales the tree with a 18+3=21 acrobatics roll. She pulls out her longbow and takes aim at the wolves over Sylvis. She rolls a 2+5=7 on the attack roll, missing her target. 

“Over here, you stupid wolves!” 

One of the wolves turns from Sylvis’s body and joins the other two scrabbling at the tree, but they are unable to reach Aravae in the branches. The second wolf tries to bite Sylvis again, but misses with a 3+4=7. 

Sylvis rolls a 17 on their second death save. They have 1 success and 1 failure. 

Aravae aims at the wolf hunched over Sylvis’s body. She rolls a 9+5=14. Her arrow pierces its hide, dealing 9 piercing damage. The wolf is bloodied. 

The wolf over Sylvis pauses, but limps away, the arrow painful in its side as it clings to life. The other wolves claw at the tree below Aravae. 

Sylvis rolls a 12 on their next death save. They have 2 successes and 1 failure. 

Aravae takes aim at the wolves below her. Her shot misses, landing in the snow at their feet. 

Two of the wolves break off and head towards Sylvis. They both try and chew through their armor, but it resists. 

Sylvis rolls a 2 on their next death save. They have 2 successes and 2 failures. 

Aravae takes aim at the wolves over Sylvis. She rolls a 17+5=22 on her attack, dealing 4 piercing damage. 

The wolf howls and runs into the woods. The others follow, leaving the clearing. 

Sylvis rolls a 17 on their next death save. They have 3 successes and 2 failures. They are stable. 

Once the wolves were gone from the clearing, Aravae jumped down from the tree and ran over to Sylvis, carefully picking up their body. She carried them over to a tree and began the tedious process of making a rope pulley to lift Sylvis into the branches. 

Eventually, the two of them settle into the tree, safe from any wolves that might try to return. Aravae kept watch while Sylvis recovered. 

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[youmeetinatavern]

“This mission is fairly straightforward. I think a few hours spent gathering up the needed supplies should put us in a good spot to leave this afternoon,” Feilos said as people rushed past them on the street. “Let’s all meet up at the north gate. If we split up, we should get done faster.” 

“I’ll take these two,” Detri said, wrapping an arm around Wilimar and Aravae. 

“Then I guess you two are with me,” he said, looking at Huvong and Sylvis. “See you three later.” 

He directed Huvong and Sylvis away from the other two. They made their way out of the the guild district. 

“Now that we’re alone, I figure it’s time to get to know each other better,” he said, letting go of them as they strolled along past stalls selling food towards the shopfronts. 

Huvong sighed and turned around 

“Not so fast,” Feilos said, grabbing her shoulder. “You’re part of this team, too, and that means attending all mandatory team bonding activities.” 

“What team bonding activities? We’re just going shopping,” she grumbled. 

“With that attitude we are. But this is the perfect chance to get to know each other better. Let’s head into this store first and you can tell me where you two come from.” 

Feilos directed them into a potion shop. The shelves were filled with secured vials of various colors. Huvong spotted a bottle that held a dark brown colored liquid. He didn’t want to know what that was for. 

“So, Huvong, where are you from?” Feilos continued, walking over to shelves holding red potions of various sizes. 

“What does it matter?” they grumbled, crossing their arms. 

Feilos looked over his shoulder at them, holding his gaze. Huvong shifted and looked away first. 

“Fine. I was born here in Corrinthia. Happy?” 

“I really hope you learn to get into the mood. We’ll work on the sharing,” he sighed, gathering several potions into his arms. He carried them over to the counter where the clerk was waiting. She smiled at the number of bottles that were placed on the counter and began to total them up. 

“What about you Sylvis? You and Aravae know each other, right?” Feilos continued. 

They nodded. 

“Do you come from the same village?” 

“Well...” 

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How do Aravae and Sylivis know each other? Post your vote in the replies!

A. They come from the same village

B. They’re siblings

C. They met each other while trying to complete the same contract

D. Slyvis saved Aravae when she was in danger of being killed by a pack of wolves.

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[youmeetinatavern]

Callum sat down at a large, round table with a satisfied sigh. The dragonborn sat on one side of him. The pair of elves took their seats and Wilimar and Huvong were the last to sit, leaving the other chair next to Callum open for the goliath. 

The goliath set down enough tankards for everyone at the table, throwing himself into his chair and taking a long drag. 

“I suppose we should start by introducing everyone,” Callum continued, nudging the tankards to their new guests. “Why don’t you start?” he asked, gesturing to the goliath who brought the drinks over. 

“Sure thing, Boss.” He looked around and raised a hand. “I’m Feilos. I’ve wrangled with dragons before and consider myself to be a pretty good fighter.” 

He turned and looked at Wilimar. 

“I’m Wilimar. I’m pretty new to this adventuring thing. I’m also a fighter. I helped protect my village before I came here.” 

Wilimar turned to face Huvong who sighed. 

“Huvong,” she offered, crossing her arms and leaning back.

“And?” Callum prodded. 

“I punch things, I guess. Martial arts.” 

He nodded and turned towards the pair of elves. 

“I’m Sylvis. I’m a cleric,” they offered, nodding at the group. 

“And I’m Aravae, a ranger,” the woman next to them said. 

“And I’m Detri,” the dragonborn said with a grin. “I’m a bit of a fighter myself. An unconventional one, anyway.” 

Callum nodded. “Since we have a bit of a mixed company here, I think it should prove an interesting experience for all of you. Especially some of the newer adventurers. But, I have complete faith in all of you. Feilos and Detri should be able to keep you all safe enough to make it out alive. But, by no means should you underestimate your opponent. You’re going to be facing off against an adult copper dragon.

“It’s been terrorizing the town of Norwich near Mount Othilus. You’ll want to meet with the captain of the townsguard when you arrive. Her name is Aravrubyrn Flaskmane. She’ll be able to give you more information on recent attacks. Do any of you have questions, or are you ready to accept this quest?” 

He looked around the table, but no one spoke. 

“Excellent. I’ll just need all of you to sign here. Once that’s done, you’re free to prepare for your journey however you see fit.” 

The piece of parchment was passed around the table, most of those present eagerly signing their names, but Huvong didn’t show quite as much enthusiasm. Once the parchment was passed back to Callum, he checked it over and smiled, rolling it up to tuck into his jacket. 

He picked up his tankard and pushed his chair back, leaving the new group to get acquainted. 

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[youmeetinatavern]

Wilimar stepped through the double doors of the Raging Boar, his head tilting back as he took in the large ceiling overhead. Two large chandeliers hung from the ceiling, their candles lit. Although, as he took a closer look, there didn’t seem to be any wax dripping down the sides of the candles. 

An array of tables covered the floor, chairs unevenly divided between them. A bar was built into the back wall where a human was scrubbing a few glasses. 

Some of the tables were filled with guild members sharing drinks and stories. A few other groups where playing cards, small piles of coin and trinkets piled in the center as their betting pool. 

An inconspicuous main desk was set up just inside the door, the man watching it carefully sharpening the blade of a dagger while he wasn’t otherwise occupied. 

A door slammed overhead and Wilimar jumped, his eyes returning to the ceiling. He hadn’t noticed the balcony lining the walls of the interior. A number of doors opened onto the balcony where an elf was walking towards a staircase that descended to the ground floor. 

“Attention everyone!” the man who’d brought them inside bellowed. “We have a small group of adventurers in need of some backup. Anyone interested in taking on a dragon?” 

The group playing cards fell silent. Two members of the group shared a look and grinned. 

“Sorry, fellas, but I think we’re going to have to pull out of this one.” 

“Yes, terribly sorry, but we’ll just be taking our coin back.” 

“Oh yes, this one’s yours, here you go.” 

The other gamblers grumbled as the pool got smaller as a goliath and a dragonborn, shoved their coin back into their packs. 

The dragonborn chugged the rest of his ale and slammed the glass down, striding over to their ragtag group. 

“What’s this about a dragon?” he asked, his tail lazily flitting from side-to-side.

“Haven’t wrangled with one of those in ages,” the goliath added as she adjusted her pack, her weapons clinking together from where they hung loosely at her side. 

“Let’s have a seat and discuss this together,” the man said, stroking his bear. “I’ve got some new adventurers here and I think at least one of them could use a drink before you get on the road.” 

The dragonborn looked over the group, nodding to the two elves before his gaze landed on Huvong and Wilimar. He cocked his head to the side and raised an eyebrow, but didn’t say anything. Huvong bristled, itching to toss a dagger at him and see if he was still smiling. 

“Sure thing, boss,” the goliath nodded. “I can grab drinks from Mary.” 

“Boss?” Huvong asked, looking up at the man. 

He glanced down at Huvong. “Oh dear. I do believe I forgot to introduce myself.” He turned and faced the group, smiling at each of them. “My name is Callum Vaughan. I run this guild.” 

Huvong’s shoulders sagged as Wilimar’s eyes lit up. 

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[youmeetinatavern]

“A dragon?! Really?!” Huvong gaped. “You’re not strong enough to kill a dragon!” 

“It was the first one I picked,” he grumbled. 

“Then go put it back and get a different one. There’s no way you can handle something like this.” 

“We won’t know until we try, right?” 

“Streets below, you seriously have a death wish, don’t you? I never should’ve gotten involved. Fine,” she huffed, shoving the parchment into Huvong’s chest. “Go and accept this assignment. But you’re on your own, I’m not going to die because you have some hero complex.” 

“What’s this about a death wish?” a jovial voice asked behind them. 

“None of your business pal,” Huvong said, whirling around. His held tilted back, taking in the large man standing behind him. He was wearing plate mail and had a long white beard that did nothing to hide his large smile. 

Huvong took a step back, putting a bit of space between them. 

“Well, I think it would be,” he continued with a merry laugh. “Seeing as I’m one of the members of this guild and you’re standing in front of our posting board.” 

“He just picked up a request he can’t handle,” they muttered, waving in Wilimar’s direction. “A dragon.” 

“Huvong!” he hissed. 

The man stroked his beard. “I think you’re friend’s right about that. You look to be a fairly young adventurer. I don’t think you’d be able to handle a dragon on your own just yet. Even if you did, all postings have to be approved by guild members and I can’t say anyone would be willing to let you go alone.” 

Wilimar’s heart sank. 

“Now, that’s not to say you can’t go at all, but we’d need to pair you up with some more experienced adventurers who’ve wrangled with dragons before.” 

“Really?!” Wilimar gasped. 

Huvong groaned. 

The man chuckled and looked at the crowd behind them. “Oi!”

Their scrambling and excited chatter stopped, most of them turning to face the man in plate mail. 

“Are any of you willing to go dragon hunting? We’ve got a pair who could use some backup.” 

There were a few murmurs before a pair of elves stepped forward. The man nodded. 

“Anyone else?” 

No one else stepped forward. 

“Well it’s a start,” the man said. “Why don’t all of you come inside. There might be a couple of guild members itching for a fight like this one.” 

He gestured for them to follow and led the group into The Raging Boar. 

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[youmeetinatavern]

“You are so helpless. I never should’ve stopped Annie from throwing you out,” Huvong muttered. “Alright, fine. I’ll show you around.” 

They started down the street, dodging other soldiers and adventurers running off with scrolls in hand or dragging along pieces of kills to claim the reward they’d receive for completing their contracts. 

“Do you have any skills, kid?” Huvong asked. “Some guilds specialize in certain trades, you got anything like that?” 

“I know how to carve wood and shape things. And stop calling me kid. I’m twenty years old, you know.” 

Huvong snorted. “Age doesn’t have anything on experience. When it comes to the ins and outs of Corrinthia, you’re still wet behind the ears. But you said, you’re here for adventure? Well, there are a couple of carpentry based guilds that would probably want you to gather supplies or help build things. They’re down there,” they said, pointing at two different banners, one inlaid with brass colored fabric, and the other with a white base and gold trim. “The Golden Hammer and The Red Door. There are more adventuring guilds than you can reasonably count. Take your pick from The Flying Eagle, The Raging Boar, or The Stampeding Warmonger, if you’re looking for the most popular. But, most popular also means the hardest to find work with.” 

“Which one would you recommend?” Wilimar asked.

“None you’d be interested in.” 

Wilimar hummed. “Let’s go to The Raging Boar, then!” he said, brightly. He grabbed Huvong’s hand and dragged her along, making his way to the emerald green banner with a large image of a charging boar. 

A crowd of people surrounded a wooden board in front of the building, people pushing and shoving as they tried to claim open contracts to bring to the guild members. 

“Um...” Wilimar started, looking uncertainly at the crowd. 

“This is where you wanted to go, right? Have at it,” Huvong said, waving him forward. 

“It really is popular, huh?” 

“Yup. Now go on If you want to be an adventurer so badly, you’re going to need to develop a spine sooner or later.” They pressed their hand against Wilimar’s back and gave him a good shove. 

Huvong rolled a 13 +1 for a total of 14 on their athletics check. 

Wilimar slammed into the wall of bodies. The pair in front of him didn’t even notice. He frantically tried to squeeze through them, trying to move around their legs. 

Wilimar rolled a 14 +1 for a total of 15 on his strength check. 

Wilimar forced his way through the legs, making it to the front of the group with only a few bumps and bruises. Elbows jostled him. Someone placed a hand on his head to steady themself as they reached for one of the higher fliers. 

Wilimar grabbed the closest sheet of paper and tore if from the board, scrambling back out of the group. 

“I...I got it,” he gasped once he broke free. 

Huvong snatched it out of his hand and unrolled the crumpled piece of parchment. “Wow. This is...” 

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What kind of contract did Wilimar pick up? Post your choice in the replies below!

A. Kill a dragon that has been terrorizing a town in the mountains. 

B. Find a missing child. 

C. Track down a pair of theives responsible for a series of recent robberies. 

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[youmeetinatavern]

Wilimar looked around in awe at the opulent multi-story buildings. Carts crowded the streets as merchants tried to entice passersby with their wares. Crownsguard dotted every street corner, keeping an eye out for any trouble. The castle stretched towards the sky high over their heads, almost looking menacing now that they were closer. 

“Keep your head down, kid,” Huvong growled, forcing his head down. 

“Why?” Wilimar asked, struggling to get another look at the magnificent storefronts filled with sparkling toys, jewelry, and clothes. 

“Because the more you look like a wandering tourist, the more likely you are to get scammed.” 

“Excuse me, sir,” a man with a large handlebar mustache said. “Would you care for a lovely bouquet of flowers?” he asked, presenting him with an expertly wrapped bundle of purple, five-petalled flowers Wilimar had never seen before. 

“Oooh!” he gasped, eyes sparkling. 

“No, we’re fine thanks,” Huvong said, getting between the merchant and Wilimar to direct him away. 

The merchant narrowed his eyes, glaring at Huvong who stuck his tongue out at him. 

“The guilds are down this next street, hurry up.” 

Wilimar whined as Huvong pulled him away from a bakery setting out freshly baked pies. She yanked him around the next street which didn’t have as much activity, but didn’t look any less splendorous. 

Banners with opulent embroidery hung from every building. The colors were a constant rainbow hanging above the street no matter the weather. 

“This is the guild district?” Wilimar murmured. 

“Yup. Good luck, kid. I’ll come check on you to see when you’ve got my gold.” 

“Wait! Which guild am I supposed to go to?” 

“Streets below, kid, figure it out yourself! I thought you had a reason for coming here?” he asked, shaking off Wilimar’s hand. 

“Well, I...I was hoping to look for contracts.” 

“Then look for contract boards.” 

“What do they look like?” Wilimar asked, giving his best impression of a needy puppy. 

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What happens next? Post your choice in the replies below!

A. Huvong reluctantly takes Wilimar on a tour of the guilds

B. Huvong points Wilimar to a crownsguard that can help him

C. A swarm of guild recruiters pounce on the pair

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[youmeetinatavern]

“Huh,” Wilimar said, letting out a slow breath as he relaxed. “That’s it?” 

“You’re welcome,” Athrue said, slapping him on the shoulder. 

“Ow,” he muttered, tensing from the sting. 

“You’ll feel sore for the rest of the day, but the bleeding’s stopped. The magic should help it be healed by morning.” 

“Thank you,” Wilimar said, sitting up and rubbing his shoulder. 

She shrugged. “If that’s all you needed then get out.” 

“Oh, uh, okay,” Wilimar said, awkwardly standing from the cot. He took his backpack from Huvong and slung it back over his shoulders. “I guess we should go?” he asked, looking at Huvong. 

“You can go as soon as you pay me back for the healing,” he muttered, holding out his hand. 

“Oh, sure. How much was it?” 

“Twenty gold,” Athrue answered helpfully. 

“Twenty?” he asked, thinking about his meager savings. “I...don’t have that much.” 

Huvong sighed, dropping her hand. “Just my luck. You got a job or something?” 

“I was hoping to join a guild and look for work. I got lost and then was attacked.” 

“Ugh, fine. I’ll take you to the guild district. But you will pay me back as soon as you earn enough.” 

Wilimar nodded. “Of course! I wouldn’t even think of doing otherwise!” 

“You are way too happy,” they said, eyeing him warily. “Well, see ya Athrue. I’m sure I’ll be back around soon enough.” 

“Too soon for my liking,” she muttered, propping her feet on the desk as she settled back in with her book.

“She really doesn’t like you, does she?” Wilimar whispered as Huvong directed him towards the front door. 

“She doesn’t like anyone,” they said, waving him off. “How’s it look out there?” they asked the bouncer. 

He opened the slat in the door and peered out. “Looks clear.” 

“We’ll be taking our leave then.” 

The bouncer pulled open the door and Huvong took another look around. 

Huvong rolled a 13 +1 for a total of 14 on his perception check. 

“Looks good. Let’s go, kid.” 

“I’m not a kid,” Wilimar grumbled, following her through the door. 

Huvong snorted. “I’ll believe that when you don’t almost get killed by one crossbow bolt to the shoulder.” 

Huvong walked quickly through the streets, eyes darting from windows to rooftops, and back down to the road ahead. 

“We’re not too far from the guild district, just do me a favor, and keep your head on straight.” 

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[youmeetinatavern]

Almost everyone inside the dimly lit room looked up at their entrance. Many of them were smoking, half of them were playing cards, and none of them looked impressed by his appearance. 

A handful of tables filled the space, candles and oil lamps burning on every other surface. Mismatched chairs were crowded into every corner, some of them obviously aged, the broken legs repaired with different colored wood, and stuffing spilling through some tears in the few plush chairs they had. 

Huvong was unbothered by the group, staying relaxed as he wove his way through the tables, greeting people as he went. 

Wilimar stuck close to him, still unsure about where he’d been brought. 

They came to a stop in front of a table where a woman had her boots propped up on the surface. She was distinctly half-elf, her hair cropped short enough to show off her pointed ears. She wore a dirty tank and had a patch over her left eye. 

“Mornin’ Athrue,” Huvong greeted with a lopsided grin. 

She glanced up from the book she was reading, looking them both up and down. She snorted and pulled her boots off the table, dropping them heavily on the floor. 

“And what are you wanting so early in the morning?” she asked, dog-earing the page she was on before flipping the cover of her book shut. 

“Why do you always assume I want something?” he asked. 

“Because you always do. Now, what is it?” 

Huvong sighed and stepped to the side, turning Wilimar to show her the bolt in his shoulder. 

She whistled. “That’s a pretty deep hit. You should get that checked out.” 

She leaned back in her chair and opened the book again. 

“That’s why we came to you,” Huvong prompted. 

“It’ll cost you twice the normal amount.” 

“What?! Why?!” 

“Because I don’t like you.” She licked her fingers and turned the page. 

“You so owe me for this,” he mumbled to Wilimar. “Fine. Twice normal.” 

She held out her hand and didn’t look up from her book.

Huvong grumbled and pulled out a leather pouch, dropping it into her hand. 

Athrue snapped her book shut and tossed it onto the table. She opened the pouch and carefully counted the coins before nodding and tying the pouch to her belt. 

“Come with me.” She got up from her chair and walked towards a door. 

Huvong pushed Wilimar in her direction when he hesitated. 

The room he stepped into was small, a desk and small cot the only pieces squeezed into the space. Athrue dropped her book onto the desk and gestured to the cot. 

“Lay down on your stomach.” 

Huvong helped Wilimar take off his backpack and he cautiously stretched out on the cot, keeping his wounded arm at his side. 

“This is going to hurt.” 

Wilimar took a shaky breath. 

“One...two-” She pulled out the arrow, murmuring an incantation in the same moment. 

Wilimar choked. 

————————–

What happens next? Post your choice in the replies!

A. The flash of pain makes Wilimar hallucinate about someone from his past. 

B. The pain isn’t actually that bad. 

C. Wilimar passes out from surprise, because “who pulls out an arrow on ‘two?!’”

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[youmeetinatavern]

Huvong pushed Wilimar out the backdoor of the tavern and into a narrow alley. 

“Alright, here we go,” he said, crouching to lift a grate over the sewer.

“We’re going down there?” Wilimar asked, swallowing nervously. 

“Sure are, pal. It’s the best way for us to lose whoever’s tracking you. Just make sure you avoid falling in the water. I don’t think either of us want to see that wound infected. Now, get inside,” she said, waving for him to climb down the ladder. 

Wilimar took a step closer, reeling back at the stench that came from within. 

“Time’s a wastin,” Huvong huffed. 

Wilimar carefully descended the ladder, careful to breath through his mouth to keep the smell from overwhelming him. He stuck as close to the wall as he could with a bolt sticking out of his back. 

Huvong pulled the grate back into place and jumped down from the top rung to land next to Wilimar. 

“Follow me,” he said, strolling along like they were on a vacation in town. 

“Where are we going?” 

“Does it matter?” 

“Yes, because how do I know you’re not in league with those people?” Wilimar accused, stopping in his tracks. 

“Because I wouldn’t have helped get you out of the tavern if I was. It would’ve been easier to let Annie force you out the front.” 

“Why are you helping me?” 

She rolled their eyes. “Can we discuss that later? Just because I brought you down here doesn’t mean I want to stay down here. You can ask questions after I get you patched up.” 

Wilimar hesitated, but eventually nodded. “Fine,” he muttered. 

Huvong led Wilimar through a twisted maze of passages before he climbed a ladder and pushed another grate aside. She turned and offered Wilimar a hand, helping him up the ladder. 

Wilimar staggered when he got out, groaning when it jostled his shoulder. The back alley they were in was significantly cleaner than the one they left, the buildings weren’t as crowded together either. 

“Where are we?” Wilimar asked. 

“Somewhere safe.” 

Huvong glanced at the rooftops above before he strode over to a door Wilimar wouldn’t have noticed if he’d been walking by on his own. 

Huvong rapped a complex pattern on the door. A moment later, a small slat of wood slid to the side, a pair of dark eyes piercing out, first alighting on Huvong before taking in Wilimar. 

“It’s not like you to bring guests,” a deep voice rumbled. 

“I made an exception for this one.” 

“Fine.” 

The slat slid shut. The sound of several locks and chains shifting was muffled behind the door before it was pulled open, revealing a hulking man. 

Wilimar took a step back. 

“Come on,” Huvong said. They grabbed his hand and yanked him inside, the door falling shut behind them with a loud clang. 

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[youmeetinatavern]

(A note from the Tavern Keeper: we had a tie on choices from the last post and flipped a coin to determine which option the story would proceed with)

A crossbow bolt clattered against the cobblestones next to the crate Wilimar was standing on. He whirled around, catching sight of a dark figure on the rooftop above. 

He glanced back at the puddles that were quickly disappearing. Wilimar jumped down from the crate and sprinted in the opposite direction, hoping to put as much distance between them as he could. 

The next shot sank into his shoulder. He hissed, stumbling on an uneven stone as blood began to pool around the wound. 

Wilimar took 8 points of piercing damage. He has 4 HP remaining. 

He ducked around the next corner, escaping his attacker for the moment. 

“Moving slime, strangers attacking me in broad daylight, just what is going on in this city,” he muttered to himself. 

He spotted a tavern and made a beeline for it, nearly crashing through the door. He pressed back against the wall, keeping an eye on the rooftops for any sign of pursuit. 

“Oy, you can take your bleeding ass outside. I don’t need you making my customers sick.” 

“Just give me a few minutes-” 

“Nah, I don’t think I will. If you’ve got a bolt sticking out of your shoulder that means you’re in trouble with someone, and I don’t need any trouble brought into this bar.” 

“Look, I promise I won’t bring any trouble. As soon as it’s clear I’ll get out of here,” he pleaded. 

“You’ll get out of here now!” 

“Hold on there, Annie,” a new voice drawled. “He said he wouldn’t bring trouble. Perhaps we can work something out? He obviously needs help and I know you’ve been saving up to do some remodeling. How’s about it?”

Huvong rolled a 7 +0 for a total of 7 on a persuasion check. 

“No chance, Huvong. This shrimp won’t have enough coin to be worth it. And whoever’s after him would do more damage than he’s worth. If you’re intent on playing the goody two-shoes, you can take him to your place.” 

“Can we at least leave through the backdoor?” 

She pursed her lips. “Just get out of here. I don’t care where you take him.” 

“Alright buddy, looks like you’re coming with me.” 

A hand landed on his good shoulder and he turned to find a dwarf standing behind him, dangerous grin crossing their lips. 

“Who are you?” Wilimar asked, blinking to try and clear some of the haze from his blood loss. 

“Your rescuer.” 

Huvong rolled a 16 +1 for a total of 17 on his perception check. 

“Come on, we should get going. Your tail’s shown up.” 

Huvong ushered Wilimar through the kitchen and out the backdoor into the alley beyond. 

————————–

What happens next? Post your choice in the replies!

A. The two thugs from before are hunkered down in the alley. 

B. Huvong takes Wilimar down into the sewers.

C. A bird carrying a scroll of parchment lands on Huvong’s shoulder. 

D. Another individual wearing the same clothes as Wilimar’s attacker is waiting for them. 

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[youmeetinatavern]

Huvong Berylbranch, the dwarf, genderfluid monk that will be joining the party now has a character sheet! You can view his character sheet here or by clicking on her name on the Meet the Party page on our tumblr. 

[youmeetinatavern]

Wilimar rolls a natural 16 +2 for a total of 18 on his perception check. He notices the puddles he'd been careful to avoid stepping in begin to quiver and move along the cobblestones.

"Well? What's it going to be?" the man asked him, giving him a rough shake.

Wilimar swallowed, unable to pull his eyes away from the puddle that was slowly moving towards them across the cobblestones.

"I think you should turn around."

"What? And why the hell would I do that?"

"Because you're going to be in trouble if you don't," he cried, trying to break free of his hold.

Wilimar rolled a 12 +1 for a 13 Athletics check. The man rolled a 6 +2 for an 8 Athletics check.

Wilimar pulled out of his grip and stumbled backwards. He glanced around trying to get his bearings.

"Hey!"

Before his attacker could catch him, the slime launched itself at the man, coating his back. Wilimar hastily stepped out of the way as a few drops landed around his feet.

"What the hell is this?" he asked, turning around to try and scrub it off.

The slime slithered over his shoulders, and up the back of his head.

"Let's get out of here!" The two men behind Wilimar cried before running off, avoiding other moving puddles as they went.

The slime-covered man screamed, trying to wipe the slime off him as it covered his head and mouth, muffling his words.

Wilimar backed up a step, looking around frantically for help.

Wilimar rolled a 13 +2 for a 15 Dexterity saving throw as another pool of slime launched itself at him.

Wilimar barely moved out of the way of another pool that tried to latch onto him.

The man's screams choked off, his body spasming as it fell to the ground. Wilimar hurried over to an old crate and jumped on top, warily watching the other pools of slime moving across the cobblestones.

Before long the man's cries ended, the slime retreating from his now lifeless body. The pools shifted around, almost as though they were looking for him, but failed to approach the crate he was standing on.

————————–

What happens next? Post your choice in the replies!

A. A thief congratulates Wilimar on his successful kill.

B. A crownsguard, drawn by the man's screams, arrests Wilimar for killing the man.

C. Someone attacks from above.

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[youmeetinatavern]

Wilimar glanced around the street, weighing his options when he spotted two men step into the street ahead of him, cutting off his path of escape.

"Look, boy. We'll let you off easy as long as you give us all the gold in yer pockets. That's not so bad of a deal when you're clearly outnumbered, right?"

Rough hands grabbed him by the shoulder and spun him around.

Despite the precarious situation he was in, Wilimar glared at the man who only towered a few feet over him.

He had black, stringy hair cut close to his head. One of his front teeth was missing and he reeked so badly Wilimar tried to step back, but was held fast. His clothes were thin, patches covering holes that had opened up over the years. Numerous scars covered his forearms.

"I don't have anything to give you," Wilimar spat.

"Oh, he finally speaks!" the man cried, looking over Wilimar's head at his two companions.

They laughed, jovial cries reverberating harshly off the surrounding buildings.

Wilimar smacked one of his hands away, grinding his teeth at the thought of being underestimated.

His assailant's smile fell away and his eyes narrowed, all mirth disappearing in an instant.

"That was a big mistake boy. I'll give you one last chance. You can give us that backpack and those weapons of yours, and we won't leave you dead in a ditch. How's that sound?"

--------------------------

What happens next? Post your choice in the replies!

A. Fight. Wilimar won't give up his belongings to anyone trying to shake him down.

B. Try to flee. 3 on 1 is bad news.

C. Give up the belongings. Material objects aren't worth his life.

D. The strange puddles in the street start moving towards the group.

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